By Marissa Wells
Contributing Writer
“The Judas Kiss,” by Jennifer Dungy, is an insightful new book that guides Christians toward inner healing and spiritual liberation, empowering believers to overcome pain, turn their brokenness into strength and embrace their God-given purpose.
“It was written to help believers discover how to prevent further incidents of betrayal, heal from a violation of trust, and learn how to completely forgive,” Dungy said.
“The Judas Kiss” was inspired by the author’s experience with deep emotional pain from a spiritual leader within the church.
“I had to struggle not to allow bitterness, resentment and unforgiveness to fester in my heart,” Dungy said. “And as a minister who frequently prays, counsels and advises others, I wanted to make sure I didn’t have a root of bitterness in my heart.”
Within the book, Dungy equips readers with practical and biblical tools that will help them learn how to navigate their experiences through betrayal and overcome the pain of emotional hurt and wounds.
Some examples of betrayal highlighted in the book include a minister disclosing private messages, a spouse having an affair, malicious statements made by church members, embezzling church funds and more.
As someone who experienced “church hurt,” it was important for her to write a book that addresses the elephant in the room.
“I saw the impact that untreated emotional wounds can have when not addressed,” Dungy said. “So, I wrote the book to help others through their journey of pain so that they can find inner peace, discover a renewed belief in their God-given worth, and reach their fullest potential.”
“The Judas Kiss” will resonate with Christian women who are grappling with the challenge of moving forward after experiencing pain from hurt and betrayal.
“I hope readers will become emotionally and spiritually revived, discover the keys to trust, forgive, and be free from emotional pain, and understand that God can use a painful experience to produce a good purpose,” Dungy said.
In addition to being an author, Dungy is a licensed minister and nationally recognized justice researcher. She is also a professor in the School of Criminal Justice at Michigan State University.
She is based in Farmington Hills, Michigan. For more information about the author, her book and to request a speaking engagement, visit jenniferdungy.com.
“The Judas Kiss” is available for $20 via jenniferdungy.com.
