book review: fierce beauty.

i recently had the privilege to receive a copy of fierce beauty: choosing to stand for what matters most  by kim meeder.  this book is due to be released on october 4th.

before reading the book, i watched this video & was amazed by kim's ability to tell stories that draw the listener's full attention.

the book was by far amazing.  i recommend every women out there to go purchase this book.  reserve a copy…do what you have got to do to own this book.  i don't usually like to start out a book review with my personal opinion.  i know that my opinion should be reserved for last, but i just cannot hold in how much i enjoyed this read!  each chapter began with a personal story which weaved perfectly into a spiritual application of how we as women of God have the opportunity to stand up for what matters the most in this life.

"contrary to this world's declaration, you are far more than the sum of your exterior; you're a vessel for the living God. He's calling you to take action, to become beautiful by casting down your 'princess crown' of entitlement, to pick up your King's sword of encouragement and fiercely defend those around you who are losing their battle for hope."  (p.2)

we are so inundated with what the world considers to be beautiful.  it is so very easy to buy into these lies and strive toward that end.  in reality…that is not at all the truth.  we become so focused on the outward appearance that the inward reality is ugly.  our inward beauty is what is eternal.  our outward beauty is fleeting.  don't get me wrong!  i think it is very important that we take care of ourselves.  we are God's temple.  BUT.  when that becomes our main focus we totally miss out on what God considers beautiful.

"when we allow our faith to rest in ourselves more than in the Lord, we set in motion a collision course with ruin.  when i was god of my own life, i nearly destroyed myself.  my desire for personal control and acceptance by others became my paltry reward.  for that little glittery tiara, i gave up my King's genuine freedom, love, peace, strength, and joy. " (p.44)

this book got me to ask myself some point-blank questions that exposed a lot of vanity in my own heart.
for example:

"am i more focused on my own selfish pursuits and the praise of others than on God's perfect plan for my life?" (p.75).   

"Lord, am i giving You my excess, or am i giving You my very best?" (p.99)

living a life of service to others is living a life of true worship to our King.  i have HOPE…& it is God's desire that i share that hope with those who are hopeless.  that is what true beauty is all about.  a life that is focused on standing for what matters most.

kim meeder's words were uplifting.  i want her as my best friend!  the positiveness that she exudes is so contagious!   i am very thankful for this book and the impact that it has had on my personal walk with the Lord.

 ☞  i received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review. ☜