My latest read has been a book by Leslie Vernick called The Emotionally Destructive Relationship - Seeing It, Stopping It, Surviving It. It was released last year and was sitting on my bookshelf. I’m sorry I did not pick it up sooner.

Leslie is a licensed clinical social worker with a private counseling practice. I love the way she integrates scripture throughout her book that provides perspective for various situations.

Whether you are single, married or divorced there is insight into any relationship you have experienced in your past, or are working through currently. Plus, there are many sections for reflection about personal change.

Step by step, Leslie shows you how to…

• Recognize behaviors that are meant to control, punish, and hurt
• Confront and speak truth when the timing is right
• Determine when to keep trying and when to shift your approach
• Get safe and stay safe
• Continue to be transformed by God as you build an identity in Christ

I would have to say my favorite chapters were 4 and 5 where she writes about Destructive Themes of the Heart: Pride, Anger, Envy, Selfishness, Laziness, Evil, and Fear. I love a statement she makes - genuine change requires a transformed heart.

I look forward to seeing more books from this author.