All of creation is content to be what it was made to be except us. Fish flourish in water. Ants are not worried about their size. But we waste time on the three C's--comparing, competing, coveting. We aim at the bull's-eye on someone else's board, pursuing a race we weren't equipped to run. Cheryl Martin shows women how to develop their God-given uniqueness rather than becoming fixated on what they are not or do not have. Distinctly You unveils the actions and attitudes that may be sabotaging women and explores ways women can engage and build up their unique talents, interests, and strengths. Readers will be inspired by examples in the Old and New Testaments of people who were exceptional for God's kingdom. As the author shares her ongoing quest to be distinct for his glory, readers see how God created them to thrive.
Author's Website: http://cherylmartin.org/web/product/distinctly-you/
MY REVIEW
When I saw this book online, I was immediately interested because I struggle with my self-worth. I have lived 40 years and still fight the battle of trying to be like everyone else. I have always felt the part of me that was distinctive was not good enough. Turning 40 made me come to my senses and figure out how to end this mind war once and for all and I was glad for the opportunity to read Cheryl Martin's latest book.
The book was divided into two sections which I thought were appropriate - blockers and builders. In my journey I have finally determined my blockers - the people/things I have given the power to define me - and I felt that Cheryl's reminder that only God should have that power was exactly what I needed. She writes about the 3 Cs - comparing, competing, and coveting. I am guilty of the comparing for sure - everything it seems that I think or feel can be traced back to comparing myself which ultimately is an insult to the One who created me. He created me to stand out, but my error was that I was wanting to stand out for myself and not God. This is what I feel is the practical message of the book - is my focus on me or God? It reminds me of the logo He>me. She also offers advice on how to tackle these blockers and begin building your distinctive self.
The two section format was well thought-out and I appreciate that her advice was backed up by Scripture. Cheryl is transparent and uses examples from her own life as she lays out the blockers and that helps me, as the reader, to better accept her advice. Distinctly You is a great book if you are looking to become the person you were created to be - a distinctive child of God who He created for a purpose with a plan for your life.
"Success from God's perspective is guarantees to those who are seeking His guidance and following the path He ordained".
"I was using the wrong measuring sticks (my peers' strengths and my expectations) to determine my worth and to define distinction. God never uses someone else's talents and abilities as the plumb line for our achievement."
I
was provided this e-book for free as an Advanced Reader Copy by NetGalley and Bethany
House, a division of Baker House Publishing, for my honest review.
