Jonathan McReynolds Shares Life Lessons in New Book: Before You Climb Any Higher
Grammy-Winning Artist Encourages Rest and Renewal in Life’s Valleys Fresh off his 2025 GRAMMY win for Best Gospel Performance/Song, Jonathan McReynolds is bringing more than just music to inspire fans—he’s…
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JANUARY 15: Singer Jonathan McReynolds performs onstage during the 2024 Martin Luther King, Jr. Beloved Community Commemorative Service at Ebenezer Baptist Church on January 15, 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. The annual service is held in honor of the life of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who would have turn 95 on January 15th.
Paras Griffin/Getty ImagesGrammy-Winning Artist Encourages Rest and Renewal in Life’s Valleys
Fresh off his 2025 GRAMMY win for Best Gospel Performance/Song, Jonathan McReynolds is bringing more than just music to inspire fans—he’s offering wisdom for life’s journey. In his upcoming book, Before You Climb Any Higher: Valley Wisdom for Mountain Dreams (releasing February 18, 2025, via W Publishing Group), McReynolds shifts the conversation from success to significance, urging readers to find purpose even in life’s lowest moments.
Finding Strength in the Valleys
McReynolds knows that life isn’t just about victories; it’s about balance. While many strive for the mountaintop moments—success, recognition, and achievement—he reminds us that true growth often happens in the valleys. These quieter, humbler seasons are not setbacks but opportunities for renewal.
“We’re often driven by our dreams and ambitions to ascend life’s mountains,” McReynolds shares. “But even the strongest climbers will grow weary if they don’t take the time to rest. The valley isn’t a place of defeat; it’s a place to reconnect with grace, love, and encouragement.”
A Message Rooted in Real-Life Experience
From his Southside Chicago roots to collaborations with music icons like Stevie Wonder, Justin Bieber, and Maverick City Music, McReynolds has seen both the highs and lows of success. Despite nationwide tours, awards, and millions of fans, he admits that his most profound growth and peace have come in life’s quiet, reflective moments.
In Before You Climb Any Higher, he draws from personal experiences and spiritually fueled insights to challenge readers: stop viewing valleys as roadblocks and start seeing them as essential pauses that bring rest and clarity.
“The valley isn’t about finishing, achieving, or producing—it’s about being,” McReynolds adds. “It’s where we are reminded, we are more than our accomplishments.”
A Guide to Purpose and Renewal
This book isn’t just another self-help guide—it’s a deeply personal and introspective journey. McReynolds blends heartfelt storytelling, relatable reflections, and biblical wisdom to encourage readers to embrace life’s slower seasons.
For those navigating transitions, disappointments, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the pressures of success, Before You Climb Any Higher is an invitation to slow down, find renewal, and trust that God’s purpose unfolds even in the waiting.
📖 Before You Climb Any Higher: Valley Wisdom for Mountain Dreams releases on February 18, 2025.
Will you take a step back and embrace the beauty of the valley?
