The unchanging character of God is such an assurance. It seems like everything is always changing- which means there is always something new to adapt to, to embrace, to struggle with. But when we know the great I AM, we have someone to rely on always.
What a gift that the unchanging, completely trustworthy, everlasting God wants us to know who He is personally.
Jerusha Clark’s recent book Every Piece of Me offers insight into each of Jesus’ own I AM statements. Although not a Bible study, Clark connects Christ’s character to our identities in order to make His statements more personal for women in particular.
Most of the chapters follow a simple but unexpected formula:
-
Clark begins the chapters with a basic story
-
Then she shares one of Jesus’ I AM statements, like that He is the bread of life.
-
Next, she offers insight into what that means. For example, she describes what bread meant to the world when Jesus spoke those words and the different purposes bread serves.
-
Finally, Clark relates her insights into the I AM statement to women’s issues. In the bread chapter, she explores satisfaction and body image.
-
Each chapter wraps up with a spiritual practice that may help women respond to the issues discussed according to their identity in Christ
Some of the other topics Clark discusses include:
- Bitterness
- Sin
- Fear
- Stubbornness
- Rejection
- Rest
- Sexuality
Clark’s observations are often quotable:
“Just because you have rejected a wrong thought does not mean that you have embraced a right one.”
“More often than not, hunger makes us consumers rather than enjoyers.”
“No sustenance comes from being an expert on nutrition (physical or spiritual.)”
“Darkness sometimes feels overwhelming, but that’s a delusion of appearance.”
“More than wanting us to live accomplished lives, God wants us to live available lives.”
Throughout Every Piece of Me, Clark reiterates and reinforces her goal: to help “women evaluate their thought lives and allow God to redeem them.” By exploring Jesus’ I AM statements in light of women’s issues, readers are invited to refine their own identity struggles.
Personally, as I read this book I found it important to check the ideas against Scripture and to beware of over-spiritualizing issues. My stance on spiritual disciplines also differs from the author’s. However, many of Clark’s insights were unique and helpful. Overall, Every Piece of Me is an encouraging read.
<I received a free copy of this book from Baker Books in exchange for this review>
This post may also be shared on: #MomentsofHope, #DreamTogetherLinkup, #TestimonyTuesday, #RaRaLinkup, #TeaAndWord, #TellHisStory, #Thought-Provoking Thursday, #Heart Ecnouragement, #LiveFreeThursday, #DanceWithJesus, #LLMLinkup, Faith-Filled Friday, Sitting Among Friends, Fresh Market Friday, and #SoulSurvivalLinkup.
Great cautionary words, Bethany, and I appreciate your balanced review.
Thank you Michele! Asking the Lord’s help in offering honesty and grace at the same time with these reviews!
Hi Bethany, Thanks for your thoughts and review on this book. I’m a firm believer in “take what you need and leave the rest” , which is what you seemed to do in your review. Thanks for sharing!
That’s a great way to look at it, Neca, thank you!!