Book Review ~ Free Of Me: Why Life Is Better When It's Not About You by Sharon Hodde Miller

Free Of Me: Why Life Is Better When It's Not About You by Sharon Hodde Miller is a reality check that most Christian women could use to read at some point in their journey to be closer to God. Sharon starts by explaining the overall consequences of making yourself your focal point in life - whether through your achievements or your insecurities. She emphasizes that God demands for us to be other-focused and Christ-focused, while using personal stories to demonstrate how we so often become self-focused even while we're attempting to care for others instead. We worry about how they'll see us, what they'll think of us, and if they'll show appreciation for what we've done. Time and time again, we keep tilting the playing field more and more in order to make it about ourselves rather than others - including God.

Sharon then walks us through seven "mirrors"- God, family, appearance, possessions, friendships, calling, church - which are things that we tend view in a distorted manner in order to make them about us when they really shouldn't be. Have you ever apologized for not putting on makeup before going out, or not cleaning the living room before guests arrive? How about distancing yourself from the jokes your husband says, so people won't think of you in "that" way? Or maybe you make sure to always have the perfect ensemble and the newest technology? How about checking your blog or facebook page to see how many views and likes that last message praising God received? These are all things that some of us struggle with more than others, but we all struggle with something that wants to steal our focus from God and place it back onto ourselves. Sharon's honest, direct, and loving approach reminds us that we're not alone and that God doesn't think any less of us for these setbacks.

After revealing and reflecting on your personal mirrors, Sharon helps you learn to redirect your focus back to praising God, loving others, serving your purpose, and humbling yourself - without neglecting yourself. This book is a wonderful asset and breath of fresh air for any Christian woman who finds herself needing to refocus on God. 4/5 stars.

*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary print copy of this book from the publisher, Baker Books, for the purpose of this honest review. All opinions are my own.*

NOTE: Be sure to visit the "book" tab on Sharon's website (SheWorships.com) and sign up to download a free group discussion guide for Free Of Me. This discussion guide has additional questions and thought points, making it a wonderful asset even if you're going through the book on you own.

About The Author (copied from back cover):

Sharon Hodde Miller is a PhD, a pastor's wife, and a mother to two small boys. She blogs at SheWorships.com, has been a regular contributor to Propel, She Reads Truth, and Her.meneutics, and has written for Relevant, Christianity Today, and (in)courage, among others. She speaks regularly on topics ranging from leadership to body image to Scripture. She lives with her family in the Raleigh/Durham area. 

Purchase Links:
     Amazon
     ChristianBook