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I Am Redeemed: Learning to Live in Grace
Mike Weaver, lead singer of Big Daddy Weave, shares from personal experience how when all we can see is our struggles and failures, God reminds us of who we are. . . . His children. Loved. Set free. Redeemed.
I Am Redeemed is an open book of Mike Weaver's life, bringing into the light everything from his battle with self-hatred to the near death of his brother and bandmate, who ultimately had both feet amputated to save his life. Mike shares the lessons learned in the loss of his father and dealing with the spirit of suicide within his band, Big Daddy Weave.
At the lowest of lows, with Mike feeling rejected and alone, God broke through to speak truth and life into him. Thankful for God's plan and timing and methods, he is especially grateful for the new identity Jesus had paid for on the cross. In spite of his faults and failures, Mike learned that only God can take the stuff you hate about yourself and use it to reach people.
Through the million-selling song "Redeemed" and now the powerful story behind it, as well as inspiration from Scripture, you will be encouraged to embrace God's redeeming grace so you, too, have the opportunity to be beautiful offerings to the Lord.
I Am Redeemed is an open book of Mike Weaver's life, bringing into the light everything from his battle with self-hatred to the near death of his brother and bandmate, who ultimately had both feet amputated to save his life. Mike shares the lessons learned in the loss of his father and dealing with the spirit of suicide within his band, Big Daddy Weave.
At the lowest of lows, with Mike feeling rejected and alone, God broke through to speak truth and life into him. Thankful for God's plan and timing and methods, he is especially grateful for the new identity Jesus had paid for on the cross. In spite of his faults and failures, Mike learned that only God can take the stuff you hate about yourself and use it to reach people.
Through the million-selling song "Redeemed" and now the powerful story behind it, as well as inspiration from Scripture, you will be encouraged to embrace God's redeeming grace so you, too, have the opportunity to be beautiful offerings to the Lord.
224 pages, Hardcover
Published September 3, 2019
26 people are currently reading
899 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 3, 2019
If you listen to Christian music, chances are good that you have listened to Big Daddy Weave. One of their biggest hits is I Am Redeemed. In the book I Am Redeemed, Mike Weaver, with Jim Scherer, tells why the song was written and shares his personal story.
Weaver tells the story throughout the book of how he struggled with lies and anxiety coming from the enemy that he had no value. He has struggled with relationship difficulties and his weight as a result of his personal fears and self-loathing. I Am Redeemed chronicles his struggles with his thought life in spite of following Christ. He also shares other challenges that he faced including the illness that almost killed his brother, the loss of his father, and other personal struggles.
I Am Redeemed was in interesting read. I believe this book could be a real encouragement to others who struggles with negative thoughts and weight loss as well as other issues. I could relate to some of what Weaver shared from the times I have struggled with negative thoughts about myself. I struggled with the details because I am a bit squeamish when I read the part about his brother's illness. I also didn't feel like he let us in on how much the Operation Restored Warrior therapy that he and his brother went through helped his brother. While the book is mainly autobiographical, Weaver shared a lot of his brother's story so I wish he would have shared how the therapy helped him in the end of the book. He does share how much it meant to him personally and how he was helped though. As a whole though, there is a lot of good stuff in Weaver's book. I especially enjoyed hearing about how and why he wrote the song, I Am Redeemed and how it has helped so many other people. Fans of Big Daddy Weave won't be disappointed in I Am Redeemed.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own.
Weaver tells the story throughout the book of how he struggled with lies and anxiety coming from the enemy that he had no value. He has struggled with relationship difficulties and his weight as a result of his personal fears and self-loathing. I Am Redeemed chronicles his struggles with his thought life in spite of following Christ. He also shares other challenges that he faced including the illness that almost killed his brother, the loss of his father, and other personal struggles.
I Am Redeemed was in interesting read. I believe this book could be a real encouragement to others who struggles with negative thoughts and weight loss as well as other issues. I could relate to some of what Weaver shared from the times I have struggled with negative thoughts about myself. I struggled with the details because I am a bit squeamish when I read the part about his brother's illness. I also didn't feel like he let us in on how much the Operation Restored Warrior therapy that he and his brother went through helped his brother. While the book is mainly autobiographical, Weaver shared a lot of his brother's story so I wish he would have shared how the therapy helped him in the end of the book. He does share how much it meant to him personally and how he was helped though. As a whole though, there is a lot of good stuff in Weaver's book. I especially enjoyed hearing about how and why he wrote the song, I Am Redeemed and how it has helped so many other people. Fans of Big Daddy Weave won't be disappointed in I Am Redeemed.
I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions are my own.
May 15, 2022
~3.5 stars~
"God didn't build creation. He spoke creation. Because we are a new creation in Him, there is a power in us when we speak and sing, a resonance, a power in the words He gives us."
I am redeemed...
What is truly so powerful about this story is how one song has impacted so many people in so many wonderful ways. How it helped people to lose the shackles that bound them up with all their failures. How it showed them that they needed to stop fighting a fight that had already been won. And, truly, everyone needs to see just how deep Jesus' love is for us!
I have been listening to Big Daddy Weave on the radio for many years, but I never really knew how impactful their words were till now. This book tells of a life of dealing with the enemy- constantly battling feelings of self-hatred, failure, disdain. Because of that, I left this book with multiple feelings. We all fight different battles, but we all fight the same enemy. I don't deal with the things that Mike Weaver had to deal with, but his personal account on his life has widened my perspective on how the Lord works in people's lives.
This book is written very simply, but its message tells of God's grace. I can't begin to imagine enduring what Mike Weaver had to endure, facing what he had to face. It was uplifting because it showed me how his relationship with Jesus grew.
Only God knows the plan He has for us. To many that may be unsettling, but to me, it's comforting. I may not know now what I will face later in life, but I do know that we can rejoice in our suffering, because suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope (Romans 5:3-4).
If you are not familiar with Big Daddy Weave, I encourage you to check out some of their songs!
I Am Redeemed- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzGAY...
The Only Name (Yours Will Be)- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1ETE...
Alive- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiuw2...
"God didn't build creation. He spoke creation. Because we are a new creation in Him, there is a power in us when we speak and sing, a resonance, a power in the words He gives us."
I am redeemed...
What is truly so powerful about this story is how one song has impacted so many people in so many wonderful ways. How it helped people to lose the shackles that bound them up with all their failures. How it showed them that they needed to stop fighting a fight that had already been won. And, truly, everyone needs to see just how deep Jesus' love is for us!
I have been listening to Big Daddy Weave on the radio for many years, but I never really knew how impactful their words were till now. This book tells of a life of dealing with the enemy- constantly battling feelings of self-hatred, failure, disdain. Because of that, I left this book with multiple feelings. We all fight different battles, but we all fight the same enemy. I don't deal with the things that Mike Weaver had to deal with, but his personal account on his life has widened my perspective on how the Lord works in people's lives.
This book is written very simply, but its message tells of God's grace. I can't begin to imagine enduring what Mike Weaver had to endure, facing what he had to face. It was uplifting because it showed me how his relationship with Jesus grew.
Only God knows the plan He has for us. To many that may be unsettling, but to me, it's comforting. I may not know now what I will face later in life, but I do know that we can rejoice in our suffering, because suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope (Romans 5:3-4).
If you are not familiar with Big Daddy Weave, I encourage you to check out some of their songs!
I Am Redeemed- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VzGAY...
The Only Name (Yours Will Be)- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1ETE...
Alive- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiuw2...
August 29, 2019
I Am Redeemed is a Personal Memoir by author and lead singer (Big Daddy Weave) Mike Weaver. I wanted to read this book because I love the songs by the band Big Daddy Weave; especially the song Redeemed.
It encouraged me to read the author’s story and this is someone I would love to get to know. I believe he wrote this book to tell his life’s story and encourage others.
I was emboldened by his 90IN09 testimony of exercising and losing weight. I appreciated how transparent he was about needing to lose weight in `09 and what he looked like. I feel this would inspire others to set goals and complete them.
My lasting impression of the author is that he is compassionate toward himself and others. I am thankful he shared his testimony as it helped me grow even more deeply in love with Jesus.
Would I recommend this book? Yes! I will be giving my son a copy of it for his birthday. I also love the cover.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
It encouraged me to read the author’s story and this is someone I would love to get to know. I believe he wrote this book to tell his life’s story and encourage others.
I was emboldened by his 90IN09 testimony of exercising and losing weight. I appreciated how transparent he was about needing to lose weight in `09 and what he looked like. I feel this would inspire others to set goals and complete them.
My lasting impression of the author is that he is compassionate toward himself and others. I am thankful he shared his testimony as it helped me grow even more deeply in love with Jesus.
Would I recommend this book? Yes! I will be giving my son a copy of it for his birthday. I also love the cover.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
November 16, 2019
Wow. Just wow. I don’t recall a time I was this deeply impacted by a book. It’s well written, involves super interesting stories, and is approachable while having a personal depth that is rare. Mike’s spiritually profound revelations spoke to me, inspired me, and helped me see the unique ways God expresses His love. I absolutely recommend and encourage this read.
September 15, 2019
In I Am Redeemed, Lead singer of Big Daddy Weave, Mike Weaver opens up about how he became a Christian singer and how he struggled with his true identity. He begins the book by opening up about being nominated at the K-Love awards for Song of the Year. Their song, “Redeemed” won and Mike was very surprised that he didn’t even plan a speech. The song was a huge success for them and the song connected and changed countless people lives. Afterwards though, he felt that he failed and he struggled with self-hatred. He admitted that he felt stupid and he didn’t ever why to get up and perform in front of anyone again. He shared how he was listening to the lies of the enemy. Throughout the book, he opens up about where all of these feelings began and insecurities. Most of his insecurities began in his early childhood. He grew up mostly in Gulf Breeze, Florida. One of his earliest memories was being laughed at because of how he drew Pac-Man as a letter e on the board. He felt so ashamed and stupid afterwards and he didn’t ever volunteer for another thing again. He also shared how he desperately wanted to fit in and he would do anything his so called friends wanted to do.
The next part of the book covered how he became a Christian and how he started into music and how loved to play the guitar. He shared how he would play guitar with his brother Jay. Mike also shared how he went to college and how he struggled with anxiety and how he sometimes skipped class. He admits to leaving the classroom sometimes to avoid being called on by the teacher. During his college years, he revealed how he led worship and how he eventually started Big Daddy Weave and they were an indie band. He also shared how they eventually signed with Fervent despite the band telling them no the first time. He also shared how he met his future wife Kandice who was an marketing director at the label.
I would recommend this awesome book to anyone who enjoys the music of Big Daddy Weave. This is one of the best books I have read in a long time! I have always liked them since their first single, “In Christ” and met then band once at an event. I connected with Mike’s story about struggling with anxiety and insecurity. I felt not good enough most of my life too and it was a great encouragement to see how Mike dealt with his own struggles. I loved how he revealed how he was able to overcome and push through the challenges he faced and many times others helped him along the way. I really liked the story of Operation Restored Warrior and I immensely believe this will greatly help readers to deal with their own painful past. If you’re looking for an inspiration book, then read this book!
"I received this book free from the publisher, Faithwords for my honest review.”
The next part of the book covered how he became a Christian and how he started into music and how loved to play the guitar. He shared how he would play guitar with his brother Jay. Mike also shared how he went to college and how he struggled with anxiety and how he sometimes skipped class. He admits to leaving the classroom sometimes to avoid being called on by the teacher. During his college years, he revealed how he led worship and how he eventually started Big Daddy Weave and they were an indie band. He also shared how they eventually signed with Fervent despite the band telling them no the first time. He also shared how he met his future wife Kandice who was an marketing director at the label.
I would recommend this awesome book to anyone who enjoys the music of Big Daddy Weave. This is one of the best books I have read in a long time! I have always liked them since their first single, “In Christ” and met then band once at an event. I connected with Mike’s story about struggling with anxiety and insecurity. I felt not good enough most of my life too and it was a great encouragement to see how Mike dealt with his own struggles. I loved how he revealed how he was able to overcome and push through the challenges he faced and many times others helped him along the way. I really liked the story of Operation Restored Warrior and I immensely believe this will greatly help readers to deal with their own painful past. If you’re looking for an inspiration book, then read this book!
"I received this book free from the publisher, Faithwords for my honest review.”
September 13, 2019
I Am Redeemed is a Memoir by lead singer , Mike Weaver from Big Daddy Weave. I was excited to read this book because I enjoy the songs by the band Big Daddy Weave; especially the song Redeemed. I was very enlightened and encouraged to read Mike's story.
This book will give you a fresh perspective on just how much God loves you. You can feel the father's heart through Mike's writing. This book is an awesome reminder that even in the hardest times, God will help us. His plans are far better than ours. This book serves as that gentle, yet powerful reminder. This book will encourage and inspire readers!
This is a great, simple and profound read. Grab a copy today!
This book will give you a fresh perspective on just how much God loves you. You can feel the father's heart through Mike's writing. This book is an awesome reminder that even in the hardest times, God will help us. His plans are far better than ours. This book serves as that gentle, yet powerful reminder. This book will encourage and inspire readers!
This is a great, simple and profound read. Grab a copy today!
December 29, 2019
I got this book for Christmas. As soon as I started it I found it very hard to put down. Mike’s story is full of struggles and pain just like anyone’s, but the message of being redeemed in Christ makes his story different from someone that isn’t a follower of Christ. I have been a fan of Big Daddy Weave for years and even saw them in concert 3 years ago. I love their song Redeemed and I loved learning about that song and other parts of their music. Thanks Mike for writing such an inspirational book!
September 17, 2019
I enjoy books about people! When a man, one who appears to have hit the big time, writes and bears his soul I enjoy it even more!
Real Life. Real Story. Mike Weaver of BIG DADDY WEAVE fame, along with Jim Scherer, share the story of Mike's struggles with self image and acceptance.
A story most of us can relate to in one way or other. I've always been a fan of BDW music, and especially the song REDEEMED! But, now that song comes alive in a brand new way.
My favorite paragraph in the book comes toward the end. "We began to know something in that moment. We discovered there was hope. Lots of things were still very broken, but something felt so much better because hope was on the horizon for my brother. That was a realization for me of how much power there is in hope."
Mike, Jim...I could not agree more! Romans 15.13
Real Life. Real Story. Mike Weaver of BIG DADDY WEAVE fame, along with Jim Scherer, share the story of Mike's struggles with self image and acceptance.
A story most of us can relate to in one way or other. I've always been a fan of BDW music, and especially the song REDEEMED! But, now that song comes alive in a brand new way.
My favorite paragraph in the book comes toward the end. "We began to know something in that moment. We discovered there was hope. Lots of things were still very broken, but something felt so much better because hope was on the horizon for my brother. That was a realization for me of how much power there is in hope."
Mike, Jim...I could not agree more! Romans 15.13
September 3, 2019
I am not versed in the Christian band Big Daddy Weave, the band Weaver sings with, so I was going into this book with no knowledge of the band. With that said, if you like easy to read biographies (each chapter is around less than 6 pages each) this is a great book. Weaver's struggles with acceptance, doubt, and his and family issues are covered in the tale, with some lighthearted touring stories as well. Christian readers will like this, especially if you are a fan of the band.
An in depth review can be found on my page at :https://lancewrites.wordpress.com/201...
An in depth review can be found on my page at :https://lancewrites.wordpress.com/201...
September 23, 2019
This is a great book. I laughed and cried all at the same time during reading the book. It is the wonderful story of Mike Weaver and Big Daddy Weaves journey to victory. The struggle is real throughout this book and Mike makes no excuses at his doubts along the way. I really enjoyed reading the back story of how the group began and the struggles they endured. Mike's story is clear and his message is uplifting! You will not go wrong by purchasing this book. I received this book for my honest view through Goodreads giveaway. The view expressed here is totally my own.
December 12, 2025
I so loved this autobiographical story of Mike Weaver from Big Daddy Weave. I like biographies in general and I love the band. Their history is so interesting to read. I love the story of how he met his wife and all of his struggles growing up. It is so relatable and a great reminder that God loves everyone and people can overcome their circumstances and do great things. Such a great and encouraging story. Must read!
October 28, 2020
I really had a hard time relating to this book. Self-hatred is not something I struggle with. I’m not even sure it’s clear that Weaver has actually found peace. He only seems to scratch the surface and doesn’t really dig deep into what is actually going on. But I admire his love for Jesus, his family, his band mates and his music, as well as his never ending belief in his redemption.
May 16, 2022
Finally had time to finish this book and wow! Mike Weaver has really inspired me ! Having followed this band since their early days in Pensacola and serving World Vision at their concerts with them, this book really helped me to get to know him. Awesome, down to earth guy! His story is inspiring, sad, amd uplifting all at the same time. Must read, especially if you love their music.
July 23, 2024
I thought Mike had a great story to tell. I loved the first 50 pages about his childhood, high school days and family life. But after that I started getting bored, as he mentioned so many people he came in contact with when starting his band and the years in the band. It was hard remembering all their names. For me, there were too many details.
June 1, 2023
In this book, Mike tells of his life, struggles, and redemption. He holds nothing back and shares personal thoughts and feelings he experienced thus far through life. Most importantly, he shares his testimony which should inspire hope for all readers.
January 22, 2020
Exceptional in that he tells of all the insecurities we all have. He laid it all out.
May 11, 2020
Wow!
This was a great story of loss and redemption. Mike tells his story with love and compassion while not sugar coating any of it.
This was a great story of loss and redemption. Mike tells his story with love and compassion while not sugar coating any of it.
January 1, 2021
NF-Autobiography
May 1, 2022
An interesting story but not a huge help if you are looking to learn how to live in Grace. Some bizarre parts to it but entertaining.
August 4, 2023
A good book about Mike Weavers faith journey and how Big Daddy Weaver band came to be.
February 17, 2025
I read this when it was first released. I’m a giant BDW fan. I forgot how much it resonated with me. I wish I had reread it sooner.
August 11, 2025
Not mind blowing but still good.
September 22, 2019
Transparent look at living a life seeking after God.
This is an amazingly transparent look at Mike Weaver's struggles to live the life God has called him to. There are also glimpses of the lives of other band members including Mike's brother Jay. In spite of the sometimes heavy subject matter there is overall a message of God's redemption, His love for His children and the lies we can accept as truths that will hold us back from being all we are created to be. I recommend this book to any believer but think it may especially speak to men as Mike's willingness to share his heart and personal struggles will expose common fears of shortcoming and failures. But God can and will redeem anyone, ANYONE who comes to Him and asks.
This is an amazingly transparent look at Mike Weaver's struggles to live the life God has called him to. There are also glimpses of the lives of other band members including Mike's brother Jay. In spite of the sometimes heavy subject matter there is overall a message of God's redemption, His love for His children and the lies we can accept as truths that will hold us back from being all we are created to be. I recommend this book to any believer but think it may especially speak to men as Mike's willingness to share his heart and personal struggles will expose common fears of shortcoming and failures. But God can and will redeem anyone, ANYONE who comes to Him and asks.
October 3, 2019
Inspiring
The Lord definitely led me to read this book! It connected to me personally on so many levels. A couple of times I laughed and said, "Yes, Lord, I know why you brought this book to me!" This is an incredible, down-to-earth recollection of reminders that we are never alone and that we are loved beyond measure. What a beautiful testament of faith. Thank you for sharing your story.
The Lord definitely led me to read this book! It connected to me personally on so many levels. A couple of times I laughed and said, "Yes, Lord, I know why you brought this book to me!" This is an incredible, down-to-earth recollection of reminders that we are never alone and that we are loved beyond measure. What a beautiful testament of faith. Thank you for sharing your story.
September 29, 2019
More than just a book for fans
Great read. Bought the book because I am going to Big Daddy Weave concert and wanted to know more about the band. Was totally unprepared for how it spoke to me about my feelings of inadequacy and unforgiveness. Good book for anyone dealing with unhealthy feelings about themselves.
Great read. Bought the book because I am going to Big Daddy Weave concert and wanted to know more about the band. Was totally unprepared for how it spoke to me about my feelings of inadequacy and unforgiveness. Good book for anyone dealing with unhealthy feelings about themselves.
September 17, 2019
Very uplifting. Very interesting to find out about the band and Big Daddy's life. Many parts of the book touched me very much.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews