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Undressed: Taking Everything Off and Putting on What Matters Most
"Sometimes, just when you think life is going just the way you expect, things can change. What once was normal and acceptable is replaced by a sense that there is a better life to be lived, often in surprising ways. This describes Mark Cornelison, contestant on NBC s The Biggest Loser, before his life-changing experience on this popular show.
Mark realized that the life he was living had to look different and he gave God the freedom to, not only change him physically, but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well. This new chance to live life brought with it a message that he knew could change other people in the way it had changed him.
The world he had complicated with stuff, that we all think is important, was taken away one layer at a time. He was then clothed with a new, simple life. Now he shares the story and challenges you with what he has learned from the journey.
Come see what needs to be taken off of you so that a better you can truly live."
Author Bio
Mark has been married to Cathy for 24 years and they live just north of Houston. Life looks very different now for them and their three amazing children than it did before the show. They find themselves traveling to share what they have learned on this journey. They are continually sharing with churches, schools, and individuals to motivate and encourage.
Mark continues to work with VisionTrust International connecting people and churches with needy and orphaned children around the world. If you would like to learn more about how you can be a part of our work, check out www.visiontrust.org to see ways for you to help a child around the world! If you would like to know more about how you can join Mark on a trip to a VisionTrust project, check out the site for information or send an email!
Endorsements
Even though millions of fans of The Biggest Loser know Mark from his epic role in an epic season of the show, the back story of Mark s journey overshadows anything that happened in front of the camera. The story-behind-the-story is about a God who relentlessly pursues us, and will use anything including a weight-loss reality show to strip away the lies we live by, creating a hunger for Him instead. And then He offers Himself, and His truths, to fill that void. Read Mark s story, and you ll find what you ve always been looking for.
Rick Lawrence: Editor of GROUP Magazine and author of Sifted and Shrewd, Loveland, CO
One of the most freeing things to do in life is to replace the lies we tell ourselves with the truth that comes from God s Word. Mark captures this freedom in this refreshing, raw, and authentic book. This book encourages the Church to be living proof that God matters and people matter. And when we live out this truth, we can impact people with Mark s own words, Do what you need to do today to be the person you are meant to be tomorrow.
J. Chad Barrett, Director of Child Evangelism Fellowship, Houston, TX, and founder of IEWorks, LLC.
No one likes to be exposed, literally put on display for all to see especially in front of a large audience. I would often joke with Mark about how terrifying that must have been on The Biggest Loser. However, exposure is what all of us need as we struggle toward the authentic life that Christ desires for us...
J. Roger Davis: President of Student Life, Birmingham, AL
It is rare in the world that we live in to find someone doing something without ulterior motives. We not only expect it, we look for it. Mark writes this book out of a selfless desire to use his experiences and knowledge to share tools that will help bring healing, health, and deeper, richer relationships to others. This book is as authentic as Mark himself.
Deb Juliot, Actress, Community Leader, Omaha, NE
Mark realized that the life he was living had to look different and he gave God the freedom to, not only change him physically, but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well. This new chance to live life brought with it a message that he knew could change other people in the way it had changed him.
The world he had complicated with stuff, that we all think is important, was taken away one layer at a time. He was then clothed with a new, simple life. Now he shares the story and challenges you with what he has learned from the journey.
Come see what needs to be taken off of you so that a better you can truly live."
Author Bio
Mark has been married to Cathy for 24 years and they live just north of Houston. Life looks very different now for them and their three amazing children than it did before the show. They find themselves traveling to share what they have learned on this journey. They are continually sharing with churches, schools, and individuals to motivate and encourage.
Mark continues to work with VisionTrust International connecting people and churches with needy and orphaned children around the world. If you would like to learn more about how you can be a part of our work, check out www.visiontrust.org to see ways for you to help a child around the world! If you would like to know more about how you can join Mark on a trip to a VisionTrust project, check out the site for information or send an email!
Endorsements
Even though millions of fans of The Biggest Loser know Mark from his epic role in an epic season of the show, the back story of Mark s journey overshadows anything that happened in front of the camera. The story-behind-the-story is about a God who relentlessly pursues us, and will use anything including a weight-loss reality show to strip away the lies we live by, creating a hunger for Him instead. And then He offers Himself, and His truths, to fill that void. Read Mark s story, and you ll find what you ve always been looking for.
Rick Lawrence: Editor of GROUP Magazine and author of Sifted and Shrewd, Loveland, CO
One of the most freeing things to do in life is to replace the lies we tell ourselves with the truth that comes from God s Word. Mark captures this freedom in this refreshing, raw, and authentic book. This book encourages the Church to be living proof that God matters and people matter. And when we live out this truth, we can impact people with Mark s own words, Do what you need to do today to be the person you are meant to be tomorrow.
J. Chad Barrett, Director of Child Evangelism Fellowship, Houston, TX, and founder of IEWorks, LLC.
No one likes to be exposed, literally put on display for all to see especially in front of a large audience. I would often joke with Mark about how terrifying that must have been on The Biggest Loser. However, exposure is what all of us need as we struggle toward the authentic life that Christ desires for us...
J. Roger Davis: President of Student Life, Birmingham, AL
It is rare in the world that we live in to find someone doing something without ulterior motives. We not only expect it, we look for it. Mark writes this book out of a selfless desire to use his experiences and knowledge to share tools that will help bring healing, health, and deeper, richer relationships to others. This book is as authentic as Mark himself.
Deb Juliot, Actress, Community Leader, Omaha, NE
164 pages, Paperback
First published January 20, 2014
8 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
October 8, 2014
I got a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review
So... At work they are afraid of correction officer burn out. so we had to do a life map and rate different categories 1-10 and see where we are lacking and what we need to improve on our health, since for some reason us correctional officers dont have healthy lives....
All my categories rated pretty good from 8-10 on every except 1... Spirituality. That depressed me... really.. I went home and said I need to improve this and get more GOD in my life....
What happened to pop up in the mail that night... this book if that was not a sign from GOD I have no idea what is...
This book is not just the story of Mark Cornelison, a participant on the biggest loser, but an encouragement about finding your true self. Each chapter helps you reflect on what was being said and even offers questions for you to answer yourself to help you find your true self.
I really LOVED this book. It’s one of my treasured possessions and honorably displayed on my coffee table for all to see…..
If you need some motivation pick up this book
I will definitely be looking for more books written by Mr. Cornelison!
So... At work they are afraid of correction officer burn out. so we had to do a life map and rate different categories 1-10 and see where we are lacking and what we need to improve on our health, since for some reason us correctional officers dont have healthy lives....
All my categories rated pretty good from 8-10 on every except 1... Spirituality. That depressed me... really.. I went home and said I need to improve this and get more GOD in my life....
What happened to pop up in the mail that night... this book if that was not a sign from GOD I have no idea what is...
This book is not just the story of Mark Cornelison, a participant on the biggest loser, but an encouragement about finding your true self. Each chapter helps you reflect on what was being said and even offers questions for you to answer yourself to help you find your true self.
I really LOVED this book. It’s one of my treasured possessions and honorably displayed on my coffee table for all to see…..
If you need some motivation pick up this book
I will definitely be looking for more books written by Mr. Cornelison!
September 28, 2014
Given To Me For An Honest Review
Mark Cornelison's book Undressed: Taking Everything Off and Putting on What Matters Most is truly a MUST read. It isn't like most how to lose weight books. This book offers a new way of think about your health and fitness. After reading it you'll find yourself finally having motivation to be fit and healthy. It helps you to prioritize your wants and needs. What I really liked is it offers you the encouragement on finding your true self. I recommend this to everyone. I look forward to more from Mark Cornelison.
Mark Cornelison's book Undressed: Taking Everything Off and Putting on What Matters Most is truly a MUST read. It isn't like most how to lose weight books. This book offers a new way of think about your health and fitness. After reading it you'll find yourself finally having motivation to be fit and healthy. It helps you to prioritize your wants and needs. What I really liked is it offers you the encouragement on finding your true self. I recommend this to everyone. I look forward to more from Mark Cornelison.
July 7, 2014
Mark is for real. I watched his appearance on the Biggest Loser so I was anxious to read his book. I found the book to be sincere and helpful - true to the Mark that I have known for most of his life. I shared the book with my family members. I would recommend the book for help in living a healthy lifestyle and for encouragement.
September 29, 2014
About the Book:
"Sometimes, just when you think life is going just the way you expect, things can change. What once was normal and acceptable is replaced by a sense that there is a better life to be lived, often in surprising ways. This describes Mark Cornelison, contestant on NBC s The Biggest Loser, before his life-changing experience on this popular show.
Mark realized that the life he was living had to look different and he gave God the freedom to, not only change him physically, but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well. This new chance to live life brought with it a message that he knew could change other people in the way it had changed him.
The world he had complicated with stuff, that we all think is important, was taken away one layer at a time. He was then clothed with a new, simple life. Now he shares the story and challenges you with what he has learned from the journey.
Come see what needs to be taken off of you so that a better you can truly live."
About the Author:
Mark Cornelison wanted to go on The Biggest Loser because he was ready to make the life changes necessary to get healthy and hoped to give his "smokin' hot wife a smokin' hot husband!" He says a poor diet and lack of exercise led him to start gaining weight in high school. As a youth pastor for more than 17 years, his weight had reached an all- time high and something had to be done.
At 43 years old and 295 pounds, Mark suffered from high blood pressure, high cholesterol and acid reflux. Mark enjoys doing volunteer work and going on mission trips, both of which were being significantly effected due to his weight. He knew it was time to make a life change when he began taking an anti-anxiety medication in efforts to deal with the side effects of his other prescriptions. A married father of three teenagers - two sons and one daughter - Mark started season 13 with his son, Chism, who gained much of his weight after an accident when he was younger.
After Mark left for the show, Cathy decided to make changes for herself so that the two of them could share this journey together. She began researching all she could about nutrition and healthy eating as well as developing a consistent exercise routine. By the time Mark returned, Cathy had lost 40 lbs. on her own and had created a home where healthy living was the norm.
Mark returned over 100lbs lighter with a new life. He currently has no medical conditions to be monitored and has been removed from all of the medications he was taking before this experience. Besides being role models to their family; their greatest joy is now having the physical and mental ability to do and be anything Christ calls them to be. After taking a stand on the show which ultimately led to Mark walking away from any and all prize possibilities with only two weeks left to go, they have both seen the doors open to sharing the truth of how God is alive and well behind the scenes in Hollywood.
My Review:
The author after competing on The Biggest Loser, television show realized that a lot more than his treatment of his outward appearance needed help. He soon learned that his inward self needed so much more help than his outward body. So he set to work to peel back the layers and get down to the heart of the problem. Sometimes we feed the problem for so long that we forget what we are feeding after awhile.
The author takes you down the spiritual path he took as he found out that he too had more healing to do than he realized. He takes you step by step through the process to turn his life and will over to God. With each section he gives you main points to remember and discussion questions in the hope that you can use these suggestions to feel your way through the process.
The author does a fantastic job of keeping things "God" focused. If you would like to learn more about the book you can do so at this link.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Bostick.
"Sometimes, just when you think life is going just the way you expect, things can change. What once was normal and acceptable is replaced by a sense that there is a better life to be lived, often in surprising ways. This describes Mark Cornelison, contestant on NBC s The Biggest Loser, before his life-changing experience on this popular show.
Mark realized that the life he was living had to look different and he gave God the freedom to, not only change him physically, but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually as well. This new chance to live life brought with it a message that he knew could change other people in the way it had changed him.
The world he had complicated with stuff, that we all think is important, was taken away one layer at a time. He was then clothed with a new, simple life. Now he shares the story and challenges you with what he has learned from the journey.
Come see what needs to be taken off of you so that a better you can truly live."
About the Author:
Mark Cornelison wanted to go on The Biggest Loser because he was ready to make the life changes necessary to get healthy and hoped to give his "smokin' hot wife a smokin' hot husband!" He says a poor diet and lack of exercise led him to start gaining weight in high school. As a youth pastor for more than 17 years, his weight had reached an all- time high and something had to be done.
At 43 years old and 295 pounds, Mark suffered from high blood pressure, high cholesterol and acid reflux. Mark enjoys doing volunteer work and going on mission trips, both of which were being significantly effected due to his weight. He knew it was time to make a life change when he began taking an anti-anxiety medication in efforts to deal with the side effects of his other prescriptions. A married father of three teenagers - two sons and one daughter - Mark started season 13 with his son, Chism, who gained much of his weight after an accident when he was younger.
After Mark left for the show, Cathy decided to make changes for herself so that the two of them could share this journey together. She began researching all she could about nutrition and healthy eating as well as developing a consistent exercise routine. By the time Mark returned, Cathy had lost 40 lbs. on her own and had created a home where healthy living was the norm.
Mark returned over 100lbs lighter with a new life. He currently has no medical conditions to be monitored and has been removed from all of the medications he was taking before this experience. Besides being role models to their family; their greatest joy is now having the physical and mental ability to do and be anything Christ calls them to be. After taking a stand on the show which ultimately led to Mark walking away from any and all prize possibilities with only two weeks left to go, they have both seen the doors open to sharing the truth of how God is alive and well behind the scenes in Hollywood.
My Review:
The author after competing on The Biggest Loser, television show realized that a lot more than his treatment of his outward appearance needed help. He soon learned that his inward self needed so much more help than his outward body. So he set to work to peel back the layers and get down to the heart of the problem. Sometimes we feed the problem for so long that we forget what we are feeding after awhile.
The author takes you down the spiritual path he took as he found out that he too had more healing to do than he realized. He takes you step by step through the process to turn his life and will over to God. With each section he gives you main points to remember and discussion questions in the hope that you can use these suggestions to feel your way through the process.
The author does a fantastic job of keeping things "God" focused. If you would like to learn more about the book you can do so at this link.
**Disclosure** This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from Bostick.
September 22, 2014
Overview: This memoir is written so we can see how God can use anything, even a reality show, for His glory. At least that is what Mr. Cornelison is trying to show us.
Likes: The book was well edited, and Mr. Cornelison is passionate about his beliefs. There are summarizing sections at the end of each chapter.
Dislikes: There were a lot of italics used here. They made for a hard read. The weight issues were my biggest problem. Sin isn’t being fat, smoking or drinking, or any other crutch people have. Sin is the transgression of the Law. To imply more leads us into even more trouble. If you’re miserable, by all means exercise, or do whatever it takes, within reason of course, to make you comfortable enough to accomplish what God wishes you to. But it won’t lengthen your life any.
Conclusion: This book really is only for those who enjoy the Coliseum we call reality TV. I hope you like it more than I did. This is a typical motivational book for Christians. Let it motivate you.
Likes: The book was well edited, and Mr. Cornelison is passionate about his beliefs. There are summarizing sections at the end of each chapter.
Dislikes: There were a lot of italics used here. They made for a hard read. The weight issues were my biggest problem. Sin isn’t being fat, smoking or drinking, or any other crutch people have. Sin is the transgression of the Law. To imply more leads us into even more trouble. If you’re miserable, by all means exercise, or do whatever it takes, within reason of course, to make you comfortable enough to accomplish what God wishes you to. But it won’t lengthen your life any.
Conclusion: This book really is only for those who enjoy the Coliseum we call reality TV. I hope you like it more than I did. This is a typical motivational book for Christians. Let it motivate you.
February 2, 2014
First of all, this is not a tell-all about The Biggest Loser. This is a wonderfully written book that mixes great anecdotes about Mark's experiences on the show and the journey Mark took to hear God's plan for him. It had me alternately laughing and crying as he talks about his experience on TBL and how he had to strip away his fears to hear His voice, hear His plan. We all had/have our preconceived thoughts about season 13- I know I did- but Mark does a wonderful job pushing me past the drama straight to the heart...what I fear is what holds me back. I know I have the "tools" to live my life according to His plan and now I can work on my fears and start living the life that I was meant to live.
December 19, 2015
If you are looking for a behind the scenes of "Biggest Loser" this is not the book to read. If you are looking for honest truth and encouragement then "Undressed" is a book of struggle, honesty and Truth. Cornelison put everything on hold to lose weight along beside his son; what Mark found was life long friendships and a place where God met him in his broken places. Change beings within.
I read this book one chapter per day because it offered a daily encouragement for me. It is light reading but inspiring.
I read this book one chapter per day because it offered a daily encouragement for me. It is light reading but inspiring.
September 24, 2014
I got this book in exchange for an Honest Review,
Let me tell you this book surprised me, I was thinking it was going to be one of the boring books where it tells you every little thing about what happened on the ranch, But it didnt, It showed how through prayer and determination Mark changed his life for the better, Inner first and than outter.
Great Job
Let me tell you this book surprised me, I was thinking it was going to be one of the boring books where it tells you every little thing about what happened on the ranch, But it didnt, It showed how through prayer and determination Mark changed his life for the better, Inner first and than outter.
Great Job
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews