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Having read Undone, the first book by Michele Cushatt, I knew that I Am would be more than solely a book. Michele’s words become a balm for our souls, taking us on a journey to know our God more deeply and in so doing, we come to know ourselves.

I Am is a 60-day devotional meant to help every woman answer the question we all have asked ourselves: “Am I enough?” The question to which we often reply, “no” as we let self-doubts and insecurities hinder us.

Michele shares her story and journey with a rawness and transparency that touched me deeply. Here was a woman, who through a cancer diagnosis, surgeries and treatment, was never the same. While she was given life, her life was never the same again as the way she looked, ate, and spoke would remain forever marked.

Michele shares her story from the same perspective as Moses, who questioned his identity and abilities. Yet, God still called and used him to lead His very people. The ones He loved.

And this is the very point she desires to help us all recognize and accept in our own lives: We are enough because of His Presence with us and within us.

“Only when we allow ourselves to be swallowed by His greatness do we discover our unshakeable place in this world.” (page 21)

The book is divided into six sections, each delivered a message to me:

  1. Creation. The world is not absent of suffering. But Jesus in the midst of it is all I need. There is no refuge like our God.
  2. Exodus. In this section, I became aware of my desperation for and my ignorance of God’s Word. In spite of this, God seems quite content and willing to choose me, even if I am unqualified. “He went for those who had little of which to boast”
    (page 110).
  3. Covenant. “We are wanted by one who plays no games and hides no ulterior motives. His love heals our wounds and soothes our hearts” (page 124). We are redeemed by the only One who can redeem.
  4. Presence. In this section, Michele brought the message that we need to be prepared for whatever life may bring us. We need to soak up His Word, asking God to strengthen us – heart, soul, and mind. His strength becomes ours. We are able because He is able. He will give us what we need to not only survive but to thrive in the midst of it all.
  5. Rescue. We have been rescued so that we are able to live in the freedom only Christ can bring to our lives. “True freedom comes when we chain ourselves to something trues and more trustworthy than ourselves” (page 230). It comes as we attach ourselves to Christ. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm then and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery”
    (Galatians 5:1).
  6. Revelation. It is as we begin to think and live with our eyes set on eternity that we truly come to life and live. The real reward will not be found in this life. The reward is what is yet to come.

Every one of us has asked the question at some point, “Am I enough?” making this a book we all need to read. Each devotional is encouraging, affirming, and points you to the truth that He is with you. He has chosen you. As Michele so beautiful writes,

“He is – so you are – enough.”

 


About the Author: A storyteller at heart, Michele Cushatt inspires audiences with the warmth of her transparency and presence. Her unique style makes you feel like you just spent an afternoon with a good friend, sparking tears one moment and laughter the next. Having experienced both the best and worst of life, she’s unafraid to disclose her imperfect spaces, so that you know you’re not alone in yours. Michele writes feature articles, blog posts, stories and devotional meditations for numerous publications. You can connect with Michele on her site – michelecushatt.com, on Facebook, and Twitter.

**I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion. I  am grateful to have read this book and it will be one I read again and again.


 

Today I am joining … Testimony Tuesday and Unite and #RaRaLinkup and Booknificent Thursday .