Before You Climb Any Higher

Valley Wisdom for Mountain Dreams

By: Jonathan McReynolds

Narrated by: Jonathan McReynolds

Read by the author.

We long for mountaintop experiences, but they’re difficult to achieve and impossible to maintain without the rest, nourishment, and strength found in lush, life-giving valleys. GRAMMY Award winner Jonathan McReynolds shows us why having a valley mindset is not what you think—it’s about receiving God’s grace, love, and encouragement as His beloved child.

Life is full of mountains to ascend, driven by our dreams, ambitions, and callings. But it doesn’t take much for even the strongest climbers to grow weary or lose their way. It’s important to have a “mountain mindset” to help us establish goals, to make steady progress, to achieve success, to do big things for God. A great mission requires from us a little grind, a little hustle, a little competition. But also plenty of time in the valley.

Most people equate valley moments with difficulty and pain, but a “valley mentality” is different according to Jonathan McReynolds. He’s reached the mountaintop—GRAMMY Award, nationwide tours, millions of followers, and more—but he experienced more refreshment, rest, and encouragement from the Lord off the mountain. He writes, “The valley is not about finishing anything, studying anything, or doing anything, but simply being a child of God.” In Before You Climb Any Higher, readers will discover:

• Taking breaks from climbing is necessary for your mental health
• Ways to find rest, renewal, and authentic community in the valley
• Identity should never be wrapped up in success and accolades
• How to prepare for the mountain climb with lessons learned in the valley
• It’s possible to live abundantly in the valley and on the mountain

We are more than our accomplishments, more than our mountaintop accomplishments. We are sons and daughters of God, who is calling us to rest in the valley, to replenish our souls, to be formed by the Spirit, to discover abundant life that is found only in Him.

©2025 Jonathan McReynolds (P)2025 Thomas Nelson

Vulnerability and authenticity

We all go through struggles trying to be the best and do our best. This book is great at showing us the way to do that but prioritizing the Way The Truth and the Life! Time with Him gives us what we need to be who He created us to be. His

Great storytelling

Jonathan really laid it out in this book. I love his voice and his enthusiasm in this book!

I am running to be in the valley

This was such a beautifully written book. It is an insight into Jonathan’s personal experiences which makes him relatable. Also, the suggestions that he gives for anyone experiencing something similar to his, are encouraging and helpful. Listening to this book was like having an intervention with a friend. A reminder that the valley is a safe place to land and reset as often as you want/need. Thank you.

Perfectly written

This book spoke directly to this season of my life. I’ve focused more on being the person available for everyone while losing myself in the process. Forgetting the thing that matters most is being a daughter of God. I’m climbing off the mountain to eat of the nutrition of the valley. Job well done Jonathan McReynolds.

“Come Like a Child”

This is a thought-provoking book that challenges, encourages, and strengthens you while reminding you that success and faith aren’t meant to be separate. Jonathan McReynolds perfectly weaves the theme of mountains and valleys throughout, using personal stories and relatable examples to drive the message home. It’s a powerful reminder that while achieving is important, staying connected to God as His child is even more essential. The message lingers long after you’ve finished reading. I love that he is narrating this himself!

Thought Provoking

This book was wonderful and really gave me a lot to think about regarding defining success!

I heard your heart

I am a big fan and have always been since “no gray” and I think because we are the same age, I just relate so well with all that you state as a young Christian.

May Your Whole Life Prove That God Is Good

Loved, loved, loved this book. I am glad I listened to this one because Jonathan McReynolds has tons of charisma. This book was a joy.

This Story is close to my heart.

He spoke truths from to the mouth of God! From the time I began listening to his music in 2019 he has had a special place in my heart. Even though he knows nothing about me he's like a son to me. Thank you for telling your story!

Essential

This is a topic that is often difficult to discuss but the author was very honest and relatable. The book allowed me to reflect on my own mountain moments and most importantly the range emotions while being up there. I appreciate this tremendously.