​Many social scientists such as Erickson, Fowler, Kohlberg, and Piaget, have studied stages of moral, psychological, social, and spiritual development in children and adults. This book draws on research by Lawrence Kohlberg, PhD. He discovered six stages or levels of moral and psychological maturity through which children and adults may progress. His research was not focused on happiness per se, but found that it is dissatisfaction and displeasure with one's current level that motivates movement to the next higher level.

Also his research found that the trajectory of stage development is "invariant." That is, we cannot comprehend or value a level more than one stage higher. For example a person on stage One cannot comprehend or even want to move to level Four without first passing through stage One, then Two, then Three.  

​

This book brings a Christian perspective to Kohlberg's stages, and focuses primarily on this Sixth and final stage. Because his research showed growth from one level to the very next to be "invariant," this Sixth or highest level is not generally grasped or appreciated by someone located on, say, level Three. 

​

To see and embrace God's "Hidden Heart," be willing to review stages One to Five, try to see where you are situated, and how this level is or is not providing sufficient happiness. If you feel a deficit, or lack, you will find a new source of serenity, peace, and joy awaiting you as you discover God's Hidden Heart. 

​

​