Fierce Beauty by Kim Meeder

Kim Meeder is a woman who has overcome tragedy in her own life and loves outdoor adventure.  She searches for the lessons that God is trying to teach her through her various experiences.  This book is a collection of real life stories, many of which lead to beautiful analogies of our spiritual lives.  The main message is Who are you going to focus on and serve...yourself or your King?

The first chapter sets the stage with a trek up a mountain and the subject of overcoming adversity.  Then the book is broken down into 3 main sections, each which include a few discussion questions.  The first section is meant to help the reader evaluate what/who she is living for.  It talks about the definition of true beauty, illustrates how sin (even little ones) can so easily hurt and entangle us and how we need to fiercely defend against it, and points the way toward hope.  Kim says "We were not designed to be princesses of entitlement but warriors of encouragement, fighting to bring love and hope to the world."  The next section is meant to help the reader discover God's faithfulness, peace, and love.  The final section explores how "you can answer God's call and begin living the life you were uniquely created for."  It illustrates the power of a smile, the need to forgive, and how we can use our wounds and our words to encourage others.

I enjoyed reading this book.  Sometimes the descriptions of her outdoor adventures got a bit too detailed for my tastes, but I loved how she was able to take these experiences to God and say "What do you have to show me through this?"  The way she was able to relate tangible things to our spiritual lives was insightful.  I was also touched by the wonderful stories of hope and perseverance presented.  Overall, I think this is a book most women would enjoy and benefit from reading...especially those who enjoy the outdoors.

"Don't be concerned about the outward beauty that depends on fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should be known for the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God." - 1 Peter 3:3-4


I received this book for free from WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group for this review.  Click here to read the first chapter!