Free to Thrive
How Your Hurt, Struggles, and Deepest Longings Can Lead to a Fulfilling Life
- Counseling, Grief & Mental Health
- Publisher: Thomas Nelson
- Published: 2026
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Publisher's Description
Learn how to uncover your unmet, God-given longings and satisfy them in ways that lead away from brokenness toward spiritual wholeness. Many people today are struggling with unprecedented levels of anxiety, hurt, doubt, guilt, and shame. Medical and mental health professionals confirm that much of the dysfunction and disconnectedness we experience in life stems from unresolved relational and emotional hurts. These hurts leave us with unfulfilled desires that we seek to satisfy through unhealthy behaviors and relationships. Yet, our struggles aren't random; they're signals that when answered, can pave our way towards a thriving life. In Free to Thrive, Josh McDowell and Ben Bennett invite you on a journey of healing and will teach you how to overcome unwanted behaviors by engaging your unmet longings. With a blend of hard-won wisdom, compassion, and youthful energy, they present: Biblical teaching. Up-to-date neuroscientific research. Time-tested principles. Personal stories of deliverance from addictions and unwanted behavior. Practical tools Opportunities and questions for deeper for reflection and self-evaluation. No matter what you are struggling with, it is possible to experience the spiritual, emotional, and relational wholeness that God wants you to have--and live the thriving life you were made for.
Endorsements (13)
“COVID-19 pushed hundreds of millions of people to deeper isolation, especially those struggling with addictions and deep hurts from their closest friends and families. Free to Thrive takes you through tested and biblical steps not only to healing but to thriving too.”
“Free to Thrive reveals the God-given call behind our greatest pains and struggles. Josh and Ben help us see the beautiful ways God wired us to flourish here and now, and forever.”
“Josh McDowell is one of the best apologists I know. This book is something a bit different though. Vulnerable and honest, Free to Thrive helps us understand the hunger and thirst for greater freedom, joy, and wholeness that aches in the deeper parts of our soul and then helps us move toward it.”
“In Free to Thrive, Josh and Ben provide a proven path to healing from hurt, freedom from what holds you back, and how to experience the flourishing life in Christ that we are created for.”
Dr. Tim Clinton
“Many are grappling with how to care for those impacted by anxiety, trauma, and addiction. addiction. Thankfully, this book provides clear answers straight from the truth of God’s word.”
Dr. Tony Evans
“In Free to Thrive, Josh and Ben will help you understand God’s radical love and purpose for you.”
“Profound, timely, and one of the clearest books on growth, healing, and why truth matters.”
“The pages ahead are a key to unlock a cage that many don’t realize they’re in. Others have sadly given up all hope of getting out. Through the vulnerability and expertise of two very gifted guides, God will show you a clear path so that you are Free to Thrive.”
“Free to Thrive is an incredibly important book for all generations. It is raw and it is real, but it is also incredibly hopeful. Through sharing their life experiences, Josh and Ben demonstrate how God can exchange ashes for beauty and in doing so transform a life and change the world.”
Rev. Samuel Rodriguez
“Healthy leaders are one of the world’s greatest needs today. Free to Thrive provides a clear path to deal with your past, understand your unhealthy habits, and move toward the healthiest future.”
“I have been impacted by the writings of Josh McDowell for much of my ministry, but Free to Thrive may be the best yet. Josh and Ben brought clarity to apologetics in the midst of Generation Z’s blurred lines and broken boundaries. I will be recommending it for years to come to pastors, youth pastors, parents, and students.”
Dr. Jay Strack
“If you’re looking for a winsome, compassionate, and insightful perspective on life’s pain, healing, and apologetics, this book is perfect for you. It’s timely, authoritative, and unique—a terrific resource that’s a must-read for the church today. Thanks, Josh and Ben, for this invaluable contribution!”
“It’s no secret that our world is facing mental health issues at devastating levels. In Free to Thrive, Josh and Ben offer a clear and biblical path to freedom from any struggle that will result in a thriving life of purpose.”
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