Deeper by Dane C. Ortlund

Does your faith feel stagnant? Do you feel like you’re constantly struggling to read your Bible and pray? Do you get frustrated that you keep falling back into the same sins? Do you wish you could have the zeal and growth of a new Christian? As a new mum I’ve had all these feelings this year. I want to grow in my faith… but I feel tired and unmotivated. 

Reading Deeper by Dane Ortlund was the refreshment I needed as a Christian. It’s a thin book with short chapters, so it wasn’t too daunting to pick up and read.  Two of Dane Ortlund’s earlier books, Gentle and Lowly and Surprised by Jesus, were both highlights of my reading year, so I knew Deeper was going to be worthwhile too - and I wasn’t disappointed! 

Traditionally, books on Christian growth emphasise forming new habits, feeling stronger emotions and expanding in intellectual understanding. In contrast, Ortlund argues that as Christians we already have all we need to grow in Christ. Like a tree in a garden, we don’t need to be transplanted. We just need to dig our roots deeper into the rich soil of Christ. How freeing! How exciting! 

My favourite chapter was actually the first one on Jesus. I realised that despite my doctrinal precision, my view of Jesus had become domesticated. I’ve grown in my adoration of Jesus from reading this chapter.

I cannot recommend Deeper highly enough to read for yourself or buy for a friend, or even better, read together with a friend! It’s worth taking slowly with a cup of tea and a journal open to reflect as you go.

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Reviewed by Emily Warren

Emily attends Campbelltown Anglican Churches alongside her husband Ben who is studying at Moore College. This year she’s taken a step back in her EQUIP responsibilities to focus on her new role as mum to Alethea.