Standing Strong: A Woman's Guide to Overcoming Adversity and Living with Confidence

by Alli Worthington

Let go of the guilt, shake off the shame, and fend off your fears. God made you to stand strong in any situation, and bestselling author Alli Worthington will show you how. We live in a culture that constantly tells you who you should be as a modern woman. You're told that you aren't enough and that you don't have what it takes to chase your dreams. But it doesn't have to be that way. For the woman who longs to break free from what holds her back, Standing Strong offers a no-nonsense, guilt-free guide to take back your life from self-doubt. In Standing Strong, Alli comes alongside you as You can't break a woman who draws her strength from God. You're stronger than you think, and you're worth more than you could ever imagine. Let this book help you cement these realities in your life. Praise for Standing Strong : "The path to fulfilling our God-given purpose is filled with numerous twists, turns, and challenges. In Standing Strong , Alli shows us how to press through our fears, doubts, and self-imposed limitations in order to embark on the exhilarating faith-filled adventure we are each destined to live. This book is full of wisdom, grace, and honesty. I loved it and know you will too." --Christine Caine, Founder of A21 and Propel Women "If your life has been plagued by self-doubt, by feelings of never being enough, Alli has given us a road map to saying yes to who God says we are." --Sheila Walsh, Author of Praying Women and Praying Girls

Genres: Nonfiction, Spirituality, Christian, Self Help

256 pages, Paperback

Published September 29, 2020

Reviews

[Stephanie Kozuch]

I just finished reading “Standing Strong” by Alli Worthington—TWICE—and it hasn’t even been released yet!! It is THAT good and also worth the deep dive with pen and journal in hand.

Alli’s book is raw and real, humble and honest. It addresses the battle that God holds over our souls for us to thrive as strong women that serve Him. Alli reminds us that our job in the journey is obedience and God does not ask us to see or understand, just to step out in faith. This is not a “romantic” story of sunshine and rainbows when we act on that obedience, but a deep love story of God redeeming and sprouting seeds of faith on that journey. It is about becoming a woman of God’s strength and not our own and serving Him with purpose and passion as we follow His perfect plans for us. It is about answering God’s “yes” in spite of our own self sabotage and attacks from our enemy. This is book that is a call to do great things!

This is not just Alli’s story but each chapter is marinated in scripture from God Himself. Alli provides application to our own lives and there are practical steps included in each chapter to dig deeper, go to God in prayer, and engage in standing strong. This book challenges us to embrace our Divine-given destiny, and teaches us how to do it!

[Ryann Shoaf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a must read book for every Christian woman who wants to fully realize the life the Lord intended for each of us to live. This book is for you. It is encouraging and inspiring. I couldn't put it down! The best part is, the book met me right where I'm at and pushed me closer to the Lord. I've heard the same thing from other women as well.

Are you wondering what your purpose is? Is the Lord calling you to step out in faith, but you want to be sure you're hearing from Him? Maybe you've been walking in faith and growing weary, wondering if your season will ever reach a crescendo and the blessings will finally pour out? Through this book the Lord will speak to each of these questions with answers that will reveal a little light on the path you're on with the Lord.

Alli is real, and her book encourages women to step out in faith and toward the life God envisioned for each of us, not the shadow of a life we've convinced ourselves we're meant to live. Thank you Alli for listening to the Lord and breathing life into my ministry and God's timing in my life.

[Rachel Marie Kang · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book changed my year, and changed my life. Alli digs deep into one of the hardest struggles a woman will face—following God's call vs. what she's "supposed" to do. This has always been my life-long struggle. Staying put because leaving seems wrong. Staying put because listening to God's unique call on my life doesn't make sense or look logical. It's a deep fear, a deep struggle, and it leads to a deep battle with deep wounds—and I'm so glad Alli share's her story and how she came out on the other end. This book gives hope and practical help...reminding you every step of the way that you are not alone, not crazy, not forgotten by God—and that he has great things in store for everyone of us. Highly suggest for women that feel unsure of their callings or stepping out into new seasons, especially after facing personal adversity.

[Lisa Hoekstra · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Standing strong is about acknowledging God’s strength in us as well as our own strength in choosing to stand strong in His power.”

I almost do not have words for how this book has impacted me. It has come into my life for such a time as this! There are too many jewels to uncover in the book to mention in this review.

I am going through a season of incredible losses and challenges. The only thing that has helped me through is my faith. Alli Worthington helped me to see that God’s given purpose for me can have twists, turns and challenges. This book came along at just the right time for me.

Alli Worthington shares her own story with a deep vulnerability which truly resonated with me. I am confident this vulnerability will resonate with all of her readers. I see her vulnerability as strength. Her path of suffering and how she came through shines a path on all of those who are suffering or facing challenges in their own life. This book provides a solid battle plan for Standing Strong no matter what we face in this life.

If you are not facing a challenge right now, this book will help you prepare for that inevitability because in this world, we will have trouble. The book also helps me to understand how to stand on truth. The book includes discussion questions, action steps and practice at the end of each chapter so I can put what I have read into action in my own life.

The author’s heart for women is clearly evident throughout the book. Alli has blazed a trail from her own personal sufferings to help other women do the same.

[Amy Eaton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! Are you feeling a stir to make a leap for (with) God? You feel a longing for something more but you’re not sure what that is? Or maybe you have dreams that you’ve set aside and don’t think you have what it takes to even figure out the next step. Whether your dreams feel dead, barely breathing, or not yet figured out - you should get this book! I devoured this book faster than anything I’ve read in a long time. I loved the prayers and journal prompts at the end of each chapter; it’s like she’s speaking straight to my heart. I’ve told so many friends about this book and even bought it for some, too. For real, if you’re reading this review then you’re clearly interested - buy the book! You will not be disappointed! It is exactly what women need right now.

[Adrienne Barrilleaux · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Strong is the book we all need in 2020!

Standing Strong is about partnering with God so we can live out our calling. There’s so much unknown in this world and I think 2020 has let us know that. We cannot do this life on our own. Standing Strong helps us to realize we need a community of strong women who will support us and cheer us on. There’s enough hate in the world. We need to surround ourselves with strong women and we need to be that strong woman for someone. I love how practical Alli is! She is so vulnerable to share her story in this book but she doesn’t just share. She helps us and guides us with prayers and questions at the end of each chapter. I am convince if you read this book, you will be challenged and encouraged to live out the calling Christ has for your life!

[Maureen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Strong is an invitation to women to step out of their own way and to step into their God-given gifts and callings. With stories from her own life, Alli Worthington reminds us that “the God who called you is the same God who created the world.” Let that sink in! I sure needed to be reminded of this!
Standing strong is allowing God to strengthen you, pushing past fear, and using your unique talents for his calling.
After reading this book, I believe you will find yourself dusting off doubt and comparison, saying Yes! and Amen! to God’s calling, and showing up for what’s next. In doing so, you will be Standing Strong!
I highly recommend this book.
I received an Advance Reader Copy. This is my honest review.

[Ashley Henriott · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was affirmation after affirmation. As a woman after what I call big Dreams and goals, but in constant doubt, Alli Taking me into her life, her struggles and her strong faith really empowered me that I’m not alone. I don’t have to minimize myself and God always had a better plan than I! Alli gives us practical advice and guidance in this book, giving us permission to be confident women of God! As Women living in a entrepreneur, boss babe “we do it all generation” and the comparison traps that come along with that as the enemy works to divide and keep us away from God this book was written for such a time as this!

[Molly Stillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alli has a really unique way of writing directly to women with words they need to hear. I felt like she was speaking to me throughout this whole book - like a friend who isn’t afraid to tell you the truth. This book was so refreshing. In the age of “you can do it” “you are enough” self help books, this is the counternarrative we need... we can’t do it all because Jesus didn’t create is to do it all. Alli’s book is a message we all need in 2020.

(I received an ARC copy. All thoughts are mine.) ❤️

[Abby Faletti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Strong is a book I would recommend every women to read. God knew this book was perfect for 2020! One of my favorite quotes from the book is the following. “We have to show up when we feel less-than, because we serve a God who is more-than.” Sometimes all God is asking is for us to show up, he will take care of the rest! Alli has a way of relating her writing to exactly where you are at in life, young or old and this book isn’t any different! This is a book I will look back on as a reminder often.

[Keri Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alli is the friend everyone longs for in this book! She’s real, she’s raw, she relates, and shoots you straight with the truth that God has always had big plans for you, and reminds you that you can start living your purpose right now - no matter where you are. It felt like she wrote this book just for me! I want everyone woman to hear her words and start Standing Strong! I’m buying this book for my mom, sister, best friend, and daughter. Loved it so much, I had to gather a book club and read it closer a second time! Can’t wait!

[Collene Borchardt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is like an answer to prayer. Alli's fun personality and raw vulnerability make this book difficult to put down. Her story will captivate you from beginning to end as you see how God was working in every part of it. Her story will inspire you, challenge you, and encourage you in your faith, your calling, and your walk with God. This book is one you need to read right now. Let's raise an army of women standing strong together!

[Jennifee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alli takes you on a journey through her life as she unpacks what it looks like to be obedient to God on his calling for your life. Page by page she pours out truth and vulnerability along with action steps through her own experience that we as mighty women of God can take. This is a superb read for all ages and all seasons.

[Jennifer Strout · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a woman, I’ve often felt that I need to take a back seat in decisions regarding career and ministry. Alli’s book Standing Strong has changed that perspective for me. I wasn’t an afterthought to God, I was His “finishing touch.” This book is a must read! Go grab your copy now, it will change your life!

[Gloria Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Strong has given me the spiritual tools to get my life out of neutral position & to start moving, to start dreaming and to start living my out my callings. Alli’s testimony of her struggle with obedience and trust showed me that I’m not alone and that I can start living out the callings that God has for me in this season once I surrender.

[Stela · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a life changer! It was confirmation of God’s calling on my life & confidence booster for me to get going. I’m so excited to do it again with my Bible study friends.

[Lauriek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helpful.

[Melanie Beland · Rating 5 out of 5]

“You were born for this-to shake off the limitations that others have imposed on your life. You were born to overcome the adversity that you fear will overtake you. You were born to tear down the false beliefs you have about yourself and to embrace the calling God is wooing you toward.” This book was exactly what I needed. As a mom who is also a pastor’s wife, health coach, and homeschool teacher, at times I just barely survive the day to day, even though I sense God calling me to more. This book encouraged me to listen to what God is saying to me and to take steps to act upon these callings, despite hearing the voices of self-doubt and not feeling like I am enough. There are three parts to the book. The first is all about listening to God and saying yes to His callings in your life. Part two talks about the things holding you back-insecurity, doubt, people in your life, being a people-pleaser, negative voices and more. Finally, part three helps you go forward-with practical steps you can implement right away. Throughout the book, Alli shares, quite candidly, about the struggles in her own life, and how she had to work through the same steps she is guiding the reader through. I have been challenged to not be satisfied with my barely surviving-living in the land of “good enough,” but to ask God to show me His “immeasurably more” for my life. And, though, I may not know exactly what that is, I do know enough to just do the next thing! “You were born at this time in history for a reason. You were given your exact mix of gifts, strengths, weaknesses, quirks, habits, and personality for a reason!” You will not regret reading this book! Make sure you have a highlighter!

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Strong is the best book I have read this year! And I read a lot!
Alli Worthington went all in! Sharing deeply from vulnerable life experiences, she sugar coated nothing. Many times through out the book it felt like Alli was speaking directly to me, as a friend who wasn't afraid to tell me the truth. Standing Strong is a reminder from God for me (and everyone who reads it) that He has great plans for each of us, our callings can change depending on the season of life we are in and that it is not on our shoulders to figure out how to make things align or to get things moving. Rather we need to walk out daily obedience instead of rushing along our paths and missing the refining process of hardship and struggle because it doesn't match societies expectations.

Standing Strong is a challenge to women to stand up, stand firm and stand strong as one digs deeper into understanding God's call on their lives. Whether you feel like you've been treading water with the dreams God placed in your heart, grown weary straining to find your groove with the assortment of gifting's God has given you or just plain close to giving up - this is a must read. Each chapter ends with a reminder of the big ideas, reflection questions and prompts for prayer, journaling and implementation. Standing Strong will have you inspired and ready to reignite your dreams and partnership with God.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

STANDING STRONG opened my eyes to an overwhelming fear of disappointing people in my life. In true Alli style, she brings us in beside her, welcoming, accepting, exhorting us to stand strong and be the women God is calling us to be. Her honesty and vulnerability encourage us to not shrink back from the calling God has on our lives, but to lean into God’s will and make a powerful impact on this world. When God calls us into action, it’s tempting to only partially commit, because a call on our life usually involves sacrifice. It’s easier to commit if it only affects us personally, yet an entirely different scenario when it impacts our loved ones. When sacrifice spreads out, the enemy tries to stop us by whispering “who are you?” Being frozen in fear just keeps us in a position of playing small, and that’s not where God wants any of us to hang out. Standing Strong reminds us that God wants us to partner with Him and there’s still much to do. Let’s redeem 2020 ladies!

[Colleen Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

I got to read this book early for launch team purposes and I can't wait for it to be out in the world!

Alli Worthington has written the book that every woman needs at the perfect time! Do you struggle with feeling like you’re enough? Have you ever struggled to say yes to God? Are you ready to chase big dreams and goals? If you answered yes to one or ALL of these questions, Alli’s new book is for YOU!

This book will speak truth into your life and heart while cheering you on to your next best steps! Alli is raw & vulnerable at the flip of every page. As a woman who is struggling to find her place in leadership and the world this book challenged me and pushed me in ways I never knew I needed. I am so excited to buy several copies and share with the women in my life who don’t even know they need Alli’s words and encouragement.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is truly a book for women seeking to dig deeper with understanding God's call on their lives. Maybe you feel like you've been treading water in regard to those dreams God placed in your heart. Perhaps you have grown weary straining to find the path you feel God has been calling you to and you are close to giving up?
In Standing Strong Alli challenges us to not let the enemy win by allowing our hard season to lead us to the point of abandoning our calling but to remain steadfast in His word, wait until he leads and then step out in faith and confidence to impact the world around us for the kingdom of God.

I really loved this book! I found it insightful and helpful with my own struggles and set backs of following God in my calling. I highly recommend!

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alli Worthington books never disappoint and this book is no exception. Standing Strong should be on every women's list of books to read and is so timely for 2020. Alli brings the light of God into the pages and does so with such a uplifting heart. She guides us to dig deeper, giving us the tools to get a better understanding of God's calling on our life and seeking his direction. This book is full of encouragement and truth.

[Shi Chen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I appreciated how open, honest, and vulnerable Alli was in sharing the challenges in her life and business AND ALSO giving me the tools and encouragement in how to partner with God to overcome them to pursue my calling. I love the balance of her personal journey, examples from Biblical stories, and practical tips to tell the message of overcoming adversity and building confidence in a holistic way. This book is a resource that I’ll keep coming back to!

[Ilene Giamanco · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was exactly what I needed in the current life season I find myself in. Ali is authentic, passionate, and so kind in her encouragement. It doesn’t fit the mold for Christian women books at all! I am so thankful for the message God has given her to share.

[Stacie Sonnakolb · Rating 5 out of 5]

So thankful I bought this because I took tons of notes in the margins! Chapter 10 really spoke to me!!

[Cynthia Cavanaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Strong declares the message that we, as women, need to stop playing small and listening to self-doubt. However, it isn’t a message of self-reliance or trying to pull up your bootstraps on our own. It is an invitation to let God help us overcome the insidious lies we have believed for so long. And the gentle nudge to allow His strength to help us overcome, move forward, and be the women He has called us to be—standing strong with a voice of hope to an anxiety-ridden chaotic world. I found myself cheering, crying, confessing my weak places, and praying as I read this book and believe the message is timely for women in our generation. Alli shares from a place of experience, gutting it out in the trenches with raw tenderness reminding us with biblical truth our need to trust, and trust Jesus more than ever. If you are looking for the courage to rise up and exchange your fear for faith, Standing Strong is a companion to help you, and I be the woman God is asking us to be! It’s an excellent resource for a small group study, book club, or sharing with a friend.

[Kristy Mersinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are not meant to play small in our own lives. And yet, all too often, we find ourselves being pushed back - or allowing ourselves to be limited by arbitrary lines. We wonder “is this all there is?” or ask “but what about this thing I’ve always wanted to do - should I try to pursue it? Can I pursue it?” We question our own hopes and dreams and desires, evaluating them based on what we see in others lives, what we see in our culture or in the media, and worst of all, in the curated glimpses of others in social media. We think of our own abilities to impart change or impact others’ lives and can shrink back from it. Alli shows us that it is not dependent upon us to create our identity or to achieve. We are invited to partner with God, and in His strength, be a part of His plans. Alli uses personal stories and Scripture to remind us that God does not see us through limitations and doubts. She encourages us to start to view ourselves the way God does: as strong, capable, loved and loving creations. God will give us strength as we move through various seasons of our lives. Alli walks readers through several limiting beliefs so that we can live our lives with purpose and intention. There is huge value in the discussion questions and suggested actions at the end of each chapter allow readers to dive into their own experiences and thoughts, and apply the truths Alli shares to our own lives. If you are looking for the encouragement to break out of a fog of doubt and uncertainty about your life, this is the book you’ve been waiting for!

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alli Worthington's book Standing Strong: A Woman's Guide to Overcoming Adversity and Living with Confidence was just the pep talk that I needed at this moment in time. Through Alli's brave and vulnerable sharing of her own stories, I learned to dream bigger, knowing that God stands beside me. The chapter on moving forward when scared and facing one's fears, was particularly compelling with Alli clearly and concisely writing, "Feeling fear and doing it anyway is the difference between staying frozen in fear and loving a life of meaning and purpose." Alli reminded us, in nearly every chapter, but particular well in this chapter on fear, that "[w]e partner with God when we invite him into every part of our lives and continually remind ourselves that our strength, our wisdom, our power, and our courage are from him." Alli's book includes discussion questions and action steps in order to go deeper with the material she presents in each chapter, as well as a 5-second secret that I have already used to accomplish more in my own life. In her conclusion, which is just as well-written, if not more so, than the rest of the book, Alli writes, "My prayer for you is that you continue to walk your journey with strength and grace, that you embrace the mantle of a great woman of God, that you live a life of service, love, bravery, and making peace with the temporary discomfort that comes along with growth. . . . Listen to the dreams God has planted in your heart." Throughout this book, which I highly recommend, Alli's words are a balm to the Christian woman's heart and soul.

[Andrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recommend every woman read this book! The struggles women face every day in life are so often pushed aside or hidden under the table. Standing Strong takes faith-based motivation, Alli’s personality and vulnerability, and empowers women to stop pushing things to the side and to listen for their true callings, whatever that may be. With everything going on in the world today and the new challenges many women are facing, this book couldn’t have come at a more perfect time!
Standing Strong: A Woman's Guide to Overcoming Adversity and Living with Confidence
Alli Worthington