Cover Image: Every Piece of Me

Every Piece of Me

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Member Reviews

"Every Piece of Me" studied several of Jesus's "I Am" statements and linked them to various issues with which women often struggle. The author talked about each "I am" statement, explained the context of what was going on when Jesus said it, then talked about a related issue that women deal with. She also suggested some things you can do to shift your outlook into alignment with how God views you.

For example, she talked about the "I am the bread of life" statement. Talk about eating led to talk about how women view their bodies and appearance. She suggested things like noticing when you think or say self-judgmental words and to take a "fast" on saying them. In the section on the Good Shepherd, she talked about anxiety and worry. When feeling anxious, she suggested thinking of things that you're grateful for since you can't think anxious thoughts at the same time as grateful thoughts.

The book was easy to read and understand. She made good points and offered useful suggestions on how to shift your focus over time. Overall, I'd recommend this book, especially if you feel like your identity is wrapped up in what you do or how you look and that you'll never measure up.

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Clark explores the seven “I am” statements of Jesus with the aim of showing that He is the answer to all we need and it is in Him alone we find our true identity. Questions for personal reflection are given at the end of each chapter as are a couple of books for additional reading.

Clark is refreshingly honest about her struggle with depression and an eating disorder. She faced postpartum depression twice, was diagnosed Bipolar II, and suffered a subsequent breakdown. This is an encouraging section for women who struggle with issues, realizing that Christians don't always get victory over every issue. Clark encourages readers to allow their weaknesses to be used for God's glory.

Clark has good teaching on several issues particular to women. She writes about shame and feeling excluded. She has a good section on hearing from God. I found her section on spiritual dissonance particularly interesting. We can know much about God yet not experience the truths nor live in them.

She writes like a teacher might teach. I felt like I was in a lecture hall while reading the book. Clark teaches truth to readers rather than inviting us along on her transformation journey. Because of that writing style, I had difficulty connecting with her teaching.

There was one aspect of the book I found disconcerting. Before investigating the “I am” statements, Clark reminds readers that it is important to explore the context of Scripture and to whom the words were spoken. (Loc 567/3723) I found it rather odd that Clark began her book with an extensive teaching on Isaiah 43. She applied to women today what God clearly said to the Israelites through Isaiah centuries ago. She did not explain the context of the passage nor why she applied those descriptions to people other then to whom they were originally directed.

This is a book specifically for women. There are topics discussed, such as sexual issues, that make this book inappropriate for men.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

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