About the Book
(from B&H Publishing)
Inspired by the Kendrick brothers’ new movie OVERCOMER, and written by the #1 New York Times best-selling author team behind The Love Dare and The Battle Plan for Prayer, comes an exciting new resource about discovering your God-given identity and embracing the wonder of who you were created to be.
At this very moment, what you believe about your own purpose and value affects almost every area of your life—including how you think and feel, the way you react to circumstances, and how you approach God and your relationships. But what is guiding your core beliefs? Are they healthy and founded upon solid truth? Or are they constantly shifting with the opinions of others or your own emotions?
Based upon powerful insights from the scriptural book of Ephesians, and seasoned with personal stories and practical wisdom, Defined challenges you to let the One who knows you best be the One who guides your heart the most. It’s time for all of us to live in the amazing light of His acceptance, abundance, and strength.
Available Now!
My Review
When I was presented with the opportunity to read and review a book by Stephen and Alex Kendrick (with Lawrence Kimbrough) that is a companion of sorts to their new movie, Overcomer, I was drawn in. My husband and I have enjoyed other movies by them (Fireproof, Courageous, War Room) and are anticipating going to see Overcomer in theaters.
What's really neat about this book is how comprehensive it is. It takes you through the basics of faith in Jesus, who we all are from birth and how you are defined once you become a follower of Christ. You learn the different facets of your identity and (in the latter portion of the book) how an understanding of your true identity should change you in your attitude, habits, and responses.
In order to get the most out of this book, to be most influenced by it, I think the steps the authors recommend in the introduction would be helpful: reading only a chapter per day, looking up the Scripture passages they mention in each chapter, and praying.
I confess I didn't follow those guidelines, and this isn't really the best book to read in big chunks at a time. I could definitely see how treating each chapter like a daily devotion would allow time for deeper reflection and thought. Defined isn't really a page turner, and it's easy to lose focus after a while of reading, the different chapters and themes blending together.
The first few sections feel a bit drawn out...but again, I think reading the book slowly and pondering each chapter might help. And as much as some believers might feel quite familiar with the subject matter, it never hurts to be reminded of the all-important truths and foundations of our faith, to consider again what salvation really means and how it transforms our identity forever.
I enjoyed the reminders about renewed living in section 4 and the biblical perspective throughout the book. I also liked that the writing feels down to earth and humble, while still providing a few interesting glimpses into the lives of these beloved movie producers (more of Stephen's experiences).
Defined is a great book for new believers (or people considering the Christian faith)—but it's also encouraging for long-time believers who want to remember how Jesus's sacrifice and resurrection changed everything and should continue to change our lives in internal, practical, and eternal ways.
*With thanks to B&H Publishing and Icon Media Group for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.*
Find More
- OVERCOMER movie info (in theaters now!)
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