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I Choose Brave: Embracing Holy Courage and Understanding Godly Fear
What if fear is the new brave?
That's the question that you need answered if you are living afraid. Finding courage begins with fear itself--fear of the Lord.
I Choose Brave reveals a countercultural plan to help you where you are--knee-deep in fears of parenting, the future, your marriage, and a world that feels unstable. When you're feeling fearful, the last thing you need is a social-media meme telling you to simply "power through" your fears.
In I Choose Brave, Katie Westenberg digs deep into Scripture and shows that finding the courage to overcome our fears must start with fear of the Lord. Hundreds of passages speak to this foundational truth, yet we have somehow relegated them to antiquity. In sharing her own compelling story of facing her worst fear, Katie serves up theological truth with relatable application. In this book, you will
- discover a fresh take on an old truth that displaces fear once and for all
- understand why the culture's idea of "fearlessness" is a farce
- access the holy courage you were made for
With this new knowledge comes tremendous freedom. Hidden in the cleft of the Rock, the One truly worthy of our fear, you will begin to understand the only path to real courage.
That's the question that you need answered if you are living afraid. Finding courage begins with fear itself--fear of the Lord.
I Choose Brave reveals a countercultural plan to help you where you are--knee-deep in fears of parenting, the future, your marriage, and a world that feels unstable. When you're feeling fearful, the last thing you need is a social-media meme telling you to simply "power through" your fears.
In I Choose Brave, Katie Westenberg digs deep into Scripture and shows that finding the courage to overcome our fears must start with fear of the Lord. Hundreds of passages speak to this foundational truth, yet we have somehow relegated them to antiquity. In sharing her own compelling story of facing her worst fear, Katie serves up theological truth with relatable application. In this book, you will
- discover a fresh take on an old truth that displaces fear once and for all
- understand why the culture's idea of "fearlessness" is a farce
- access the holy courage you were made for
With this new knowledge comes tremendous freedom. Hidden in the cleft of the Rock, the One truly worthy of our fear, you will begin to understand the only path to real courage.
192 pages, Paperback
Published August 4, 2020
33 people are currently reading
382 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
August 5, 2020
I sat down on the plane and opened this book and thought, I'll probably just read a chapter or two. But after reading the dedication page (I always love to read those), I was surprised because what was written was more than a line. It truly was a dedication and it caught me off guard as the words touched my heart. I think it was that page and that page alone that set my brain in motion that said," I want to read more of her story."
And I did. I ended up reading this book cover to cover while traveling across the United States between 3 different flights - it was perfect company for the journey.
There are 19 chapters, but don't be overwhelmed, because the chapters are not long at all. The book really breaks down what it means to understand and embrace the fear of God. I thought I had a grasp of what it meant. I didn't. Until I read this book and even still, I now want to discover more for myself.Study the Word and apply that same fear to my own daily walk with the Lord.
I'm so excited about this book - I want everyone I know to read it, including my 16 yr old daughter - I think she would love it as well. I think you would too. So beautifully written. So truthful and honest. It will change how you view your response to God and make you dive deeper in your own walk and study.
And I did. I ended up reading this book cover to cover while traveling across the United States between 3 different flights - it was perfect company for the journey.
There are 19 chapters, but don't be overwhelmed, because the chapters are not long at all. The book really breaks down what it means to understand and embrace the fear of God. I thought I had a grasp of what it meant. I didn't. Until I read this book and even still, I now want to discover more for myself.Study the Word and apply that same fear to my own daily walk with the Lord.
I'm so excited about this book - I want everyone I know to read it, including my 16 yr old daughter - I think she would love it as well. I think you would too. So beautifully written. So truthful and honest. It will change how you view your response to God and make you dive deeper in your own walk and study.
July 29, 2020
In this deeply personal book, Katie Westenberg shares about her experience facing fear during a high-risk pregnancy that ended with a stillbirth. She pulls no punches in exploring the depths of pain and suffering that she experienced, but testifies to God's grace in the midst of it, explaining how she changed her relationship to fear through the "holy courage" of fearing God instead of her circumstances. She explains how when she viewed God with awe and wonder, instead of demanding a particular outcome, she was able to live with uncertainty and tragedy without losing her faith.
Each chapter addresses a different facet of life and a different virtue that we can experience by exchanging earthly fear for godly fear. Westenberg explores Scriptural narratives about the tension between the commands "do not fear" and "fear God," and supports her personal narrative with deep theological reflections that apply to people in any circumstance. This book is a great resource for Christians who are struggling with uncertainty and tragedy, or with society's expectation that we be "fearless." Westenberg is honest about the pain and horrors of life, and never waters down Scripture with a boot-strapping message of self-fulfillment.
I Choose Brave: Embracing Holy Courage and Understanding Godly Fear is earnest and bold. Women who have experienced traumatic pregnancies and child loss should approach this book with care, knowing that the vivid details may cause painful flashbacks, but this deeply encouraging resource can help women who are walking through dark times in their lives, or who are looking ahead and wondering, as Westberg once did, if they could survive their worst nightmares. This is a beautiful testimony of enduring faith, and of how the fear of God can overshadow all else.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Each chapter addresses a different facet of life and a different virtue that we can experience by exchanging earthly fear for godly fear. Westenberg explores Scriptural narratives about the tension between the commands "do not fear" and "fear God," and supports her personal narrative with deep theological reflections that apply to people in any circumstance. This book is a great resource for Christians who are struggling with uncertainty and tragedy, or with society's expectation that we be "fearless." Westenberg is honest about the pain and horrors of life, and never waters down Scripture with a boot-strapping message of self-fulfillment.
I Choose Brave: Embracing Holy Courage and Understanding Godly Fear is earnest and bold. Women who have experienced traumatic pregnancies and child loss should approach this book with care, knowing that the vivid details may cause painful flashbacks, but this deeply encouraging resource can help women who are walking through dark times in their lives, or who are looking ahead and wondering, as Westberg once did, if they could survive their worst nightmares. This is a beautiful testimony of enduring faith, and of how the fear of God can overshadow all else.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 10, 2020
I literally read this entire book in one sitting (But I should probably add that I was stuck in my chair on a long, international flight...but still!). This new book by Katie Westenberg does not release until a little later this year, but you’re going to want to add it to your cart! Such a powerful read. I cannot stop thinking about her story — and her message — it’s just that kind of book.
I plan to add a little more “professional” review of this book closer to when it releases, but for now this is my personal take on a fantastic book.
I plan to add a little more “professional” review of this book closer to when it releases, but for now this is my personal take on a fantastic book.
March 31, 2021
This book made me think! I really, really wanted to love it, because I love Katie’s heart and message. However, the writing style is a little jarring and I wanted a bit more...something (end-of-chapter questions? assignments?). Also, huge trigger warning I wasn’t expecting: pregnancy loss and stillbirth. All in all, this is a unique book on a seldom-talked-about topic that will inspire many.
August 5, 2020
In a world riddled by fear and anxiety, Katie Westenberg's new book challenges us to choose holy courage and godly fear.
In the pages of I Choose Brave, Katie shares poignant stories of coming face to face with fear, through heart-rending loss as well as everyday circumstances. And then, ever so gently, she points us to the truth of what God has to say about hope and peace in the midst of suffering and uncertainty.
With insightful quotations and applicable scripture, each chapter is one to be read and absorbed. Yet the book itself is so gripping you won't want to stop reading.
In the pages of I Choose Brave, Katie shares poignant stories of coming face to face with fear, through heart-rending loss as well as everyday circumstances. And then, ever so gently, she points us to the truth of what God has to say about hope and peace in the midst of suffering and uncertainty.
With insightful quotations and applicable scripture, each chapter is one to be read and absorbed. Yet the book itself is so gripping you won't want to stop reading.
October 1, 2021
I’m not a fan of flattery. At all. So when I say this book is life-changing, I mean it to the core of my being.
This book is for anyone who has ever beaten yourself up for asking, “I know You can, but will You?” Anyone who has ever trudged through suffering that looks like anything BUT a good God’s love for you, and believed anyway. Anyone who needed something more rooting and sustaining in those moments than, “Tighten your ponytail and try harder.” Anyone who has ever known, deep within, that true fear of the Lord is a good thing, but may not understand why, or what it is, or how to get there. More times than I can count, I felt like I was reading my own thoughts, doubts, hopes, and prayers and rarely wanted to put it down. But I had to, chapter after chapter, to fully digest the truth and exhortation and richness in every page.
With charm, genuine humility, and brave that bleeds into every word of her story, Katie reminds us over and over to turn our eyes off of ourselves and onto the only One worthy of such devotion. The only One who can bring meaning and peace when He decides not to calm the storm, but instead, His child within it. Her testimony is a gut-wrenching one, all at once gravelly and uncomfortable and victorious, but best of all, it’s REAL. Not every lament is capped off with, “But it is well!” Not every storm cloud is forcibly held in tandem with sunshine. By unapologetically sharing how she waded through her gritty, she allows us to do the same — To sit in the messy middle and ache for Him in ways we never otherwise would have — And beckons us to just “be” in moments we feel pushed or desperate to “do” ourselves out of our circumstances.
I have found a new “belong” among Katie and among the pages of I Choose Brave. Not one that’s inherently popular, or wanted, or in all honesty, even accepted half the time. But one that’s necessary for anyone and every one who claims to follow Him.
Thank you, Katie, for welcoming us into your brave, and in turn, helping us to find it within ourselves. May all who read this book be as richly blessed by it as I’ve been, and may you and yours be tenfold.
“His broken body has afforded us our brave...”
Thank You, infinitely, my Jesus 🙏🏼❤️⚔️
This book is for anyone who has ever beaten yourself up for asking, “I know You can, but will You?” Anyone who has ever trudged through suffering that looks like anything BUT a good God’s love for you, and believed anyway. Anyone who needed something more rooting and sustaining in those moments than, “Tighten your ponytail and try harder.” Anyone who has ever known, deep within, that true fear of the Lord is a good thing, but may not understand why, or what it is, or how to get there. More times than I can count, I felt like I was reading my own thoughts, doubts, hopes, and prayers and rarely wanted to put it down. But I had to, chapter after chapter, to fully digest the truth and exhortation and richness in every page.
With charm, genuine humility, and brave that bleeds into every word of her story, Katie reminds us over and over to turn our eyes off of ourselves and onto the only One worthy of such devotion. The only One who can bring meaning and peace when He decides not to calm the storm, but instead, His child within it. Her testimony is a gut-wrenching one, all at once gravelly and uncomfortable and victorious, but best of all, it’s REAL. Not every lament is capped off with, “But it is well!” Not every storm cloud is forcibly held in tandem with sunshine. By unapologetically sharing how she waded through her gritty, she allows us to do the same — To sit in the messy middle and ache for Him in ways we never otherwise would have — And beckons us to just “be” in moments we feel pushed or desperate to “do” ourselves out of our circumstances.
I have found a new “belong” among Katie and among the pages of I Choose Brave. Not one that’s inherently popular, or wanted, or in all honesty, even accepted half the time. But one that’s necessary for anyone and every one who claims to follow Him.
Thank you, Katie, for welcoming us into your brave, and in turn, helping us to find it within ourselves. May all who read this book be as richly blessed by it as I’ve been, and may you and yours be tenfold.
“His broken body has afforded us our brave...”
Thank You, infinitely, my Jesus 🙏🏼❤️⚔️
November 15, 2024
I Choose Brave by Katie Westenberg, had great verses and reference to the bible. We must dig into God's word for ourselves and seek God above all, heavily emphasized by 'fear of the Lord'.
I struggled with the writing in this book, found it rather jarring. Major trigger warning for infant death, and fertility issues. Most of which this authors personal story and experiences surrounded around.
I don't know anything about this author or background but found the story to this book to be more about the mourning and suffering of infertility. EVERY chapter touched on this women's experience. I understand with this type of book will ultimately be told from the author's life experience. Sad loss and heartbreaking. However, as the author admits in the most vulnerable state the author did not choose courage and stepping into community during their horrible loss.
This book took me a while a read to given the context of the TW and was a sad read, I didn't so much take away courage from this read, unless one is disclosing now their past pain with the loss of their daughter. HEART BREAKING. However, not what I had the intent or expectation of in picking this book up. Those stories and pain has a place and an audience but I think being vulnerable and visible with such a situation is key.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers for an ARC digital copy for my honest review.
I struggled with the writing in this book, found it rather jarring. Major trigger warning for infant death, and fertility issues. Most of which this authors personal story and experiences surrounded around.
I don't know anything about this author or background but found the story to this book to be more about the mourning and suffering of infertility. EVERY chapter touched on this women's experience. I understand with this type of book will ultimately be told from the author's life experience. Sad loss and heartbreaking. However, as the author admits in the most vulnerable state the author did not choose courage and stepping into community during their horrible loss.
This book took me a while a read to given the context of the TW and was a sad read, I didn't so much take away courage from this read, unless one is disclosing now their past pain with the loss of their daughter. HEART BREAKING. However, not what I had the intent or expectation of in picking this book up. Those stories and pain has a place and an audience but I think being vulnerable and visible with such a situation is key.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bethany House Publishers for an ARC digital copy for my honest review.
August 14, 2020
I Choose Brave addresses the topic of the "fear of God", a phrase used frequently in Christian discussions, but one that is not frequently preached on. "The fear of the Lord is the key to wisdom, and wisdom is key to rightly aligning our fear" (Westenberg). The author does not foolishly suggest we live without fear, as many empowerment things aimed at women suggest, but rather we "rightly align" our fear.
Through the story of a brutal failed pregnancy, Westenberg shares how God did not take her fear away, but showed her how to live fearing Him instead of her circumstances. It is not an easy adjustment to learn how to make, but one well worth the effort.
Westenberg also draws heavily on Scripture, which I personally appreciate, as she proclaims Biblical truths. May we bring our fears to God and allow him to correct the direction of them, for "The belief we procure, the truth we understand, the faith we form in fair weather becomes foundational in the storm, friend" (Westenberg).
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, opinion is my own.
Through the story of a brutal failed pregnancy, Westenberg shares how God did not take her fear away, but showed her how to live fearing Him instead of her circumstances. It is not an easy adjustment to learn how to make, but one well worth the effort.
Westenberg also draws heavily on Scripture, which I personally appreciate, as she proclaims Biblical truths. May we bring our fears to God and allow him to correct the direction of them, for "The belief we procure, the truth we understand, the faith we form in fair weather becomes foundational in the storm, friend" (Westenberg).
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley, opinion is my own.
August 4, 2020
Katie guides us through Scripture and her story to help us choose brave - to pursue holy courage with godly fear. Katie does a beautiful job of demonstrating that bravery does not come from some motivational self-talk, or step by step self-help process. Bravery, wisdom and courage come from the Fear of the Lord, because "The Fear of God is a fear that bids us to come". That invitation is open to all of us. Katie's book is so timely. The world tells us there is so much to fear. We find ourselves anxious over a virus, the economy, our children's education, political tension, and a church divided. If "what we fear is what we worship", it is time to recalibrate and "step forward in courage, believing He will teach you to see Him anew and to fear Him, and Him alone, right in the midst of the very thing you fear". Purchase this book today!
August 4, 2020
I have not been able to put down this book and am constantly stopped in awe of the timing of God's words to Katie over a year ago as she was writing this book and the Holy Spirit was weaving together words of life and hope for us in this season of uncertainty.
I believe there is life-giving power in this book and that it will encourage and strengthen every reader while continually directing them to truth and the power of the Almighty God.
Katie's personal journey is relatable, and there is depth to this book that stands out from the popular "feel good" "do it yourself" self-esteem culture that is out there today with no solid rock under the sand castle of "braveness".
I recommend this book to everyone!
I believe there is life-giving power in this book and that it will encourage and strengthen every reader while continually directing them to truth and the power of the Almighty God.
Katie's personal journey is relatable, and there is depth to this book that stands out from the popular "feel good" "do it yourself" self-esteem culture that is out there today with no solid rock under the sand castle of "braveness".
I recommend this book to everyone!
August 7, 2020
“I Choose Brave” is such a timely word for God’s people. In a world that is quickly changing and in turmoil, we can stand on the truth that our God is unchanging. He is the same God today as He was during Creation. Katie reminds us that the daily reading of His Word and seeking Him during the quiet times of our life is the foundation for us to rely on during the heavy times of life. Building our faith muscle allows us to lean in to Him and rely on His wisdom and strength. Fearing God leads to wisdom. Fear of the Lord leads to obedience, which allows us to rely on God and seek His will for our lives. Katie strips away all the trendiness of Christianity and leads us back to the truth of who God is. I Am.
August 9, 2020
In a world where everything seems so uncertain, and what will happen tomorrow seems as unsure as what will happen 10 years from now, Katie's, "I Choose Brave," is a passionate, heartfelt, timely guide to the Christian woman on how to pursue a life that is focused on the healthy, powerful, life-giving fear of the Lord, instead of the hurtful, broken, life-sapping fear of the flesh. I so enjoyed getting a glimpse into Katie's struggles, and learning how she daily works to conquer horizontal fears in her life. This book inspired me to look at my life through the lens of the all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving God, instead of the limited lens of my own mind. Thank you Katie for sharing your experience with us!
August 5, 2020
I have read Katie Westenberg's writing on her blog for several years and I was excited to get my hands on this book. It did not disappoint! Katie tackles the challenge of balancing a reverent fear of God with the command of, "Do Not Fear." She brilliantly bridges these two statements by providing application and examples from various aspects of life. Katie has lived through a tough loss and expresses how to bridge the pain and fear into hope. This book is a great read for anyone who has ever had a hard season or wants to understand the Scriptural context of fear and courage in order to choose to be brave.
August 4, 2020
I Choose Brave is written from the heart, personal experience and faith journey in the Word of God by the author. Katie is transparent, as she shares her life story. Her soul-searching journey of putting aside platitudes about fearing God, then looking for what the Bible really means about fearing God is enlightening.. The book Is inspiring, challenging and encouraging. A great read for anyone searching about who God really is and what that means to each of us in our day-in, day-out life!! I Choose Brave is Certainly timely, consiering all we have had to face in 2020.
August 5, 2020
This right here....
It has been years since a book actually brought me to tears. While Katie’s story is one of heartache and real fear, the way she succumbs, actively seeks and pursues the Lord and then triumphantly overcomes is nothing short of a miracle. I had no idea when I purchased this book that I would share a common bond with her.
If you are looking to move from fear to brave, you must read this book! Thank you, Katie, for your story, your passion and your holy courage!
It has been years since a book actually brought me to tears. While Katie’s story is one of heartache and real fear, the way she succumbs, actively seeks and pursues the Lord and then triumphantly overcomes is nothing short of a miracle. I had no idea when I purchased this book that I would share a common bond with her.
If you are looking to move from fear to brave, you must read this book! Thank you, Katie, for your story, your passion and your holy courage!
August 9, 2020
We’re told many times throughout the Bible to not fear, while we’re also told to fear God. Be brave and have courage are often the encouragement we get from the self-help gurus these days, but “fear God” won’t make you Instagram famous. Katie Westenberg does a great job of sharing Scriptures that remind us to fear God - there are a lot of them! She is an amazing writer, and you will be encouraged to go nearer to God as you fear Him and have holy courage.
August 9, 2020
Feel like you need something to lift your spirits? I Choose Brave...Embracing Holy Courage and Understanding Godly Fear ...is the book for you! Whatever you are struggling with, it helps to hear words of encouragement that remind us that we all take knocks in life...but the best things in life come through persistence and allowing God to take the reigns of our lives. All you have to do is keep moving forward even when it feels like it would be easier to just lay down and give up.
August 14, 2020
"I Choose Brave" weaves Westenberg's personal journey of loss and struggle with truth and encouragement to seek Holy Courage and Godly Fear rather than fear itself. We need to choose to move forward bravely rather than to live in a constant state of fear. Westenberg points the reader back to Biblical truth in scripture to share how her loss led her to seeking the Lord and His truth to live a life of Holy Courage. Her message is a very timely one in our current world.
June 20, 2021
Read this book as part of my Faithbox subscription book club, and it was life changing. I have never really sat and dissected how fear plays a role in my faith and my Christian life. I have to say that Katie, takes you on a true journey that's not always easy, but it is overall rewarding. This book had me reading without even knowing how much time has passed. This is a beautiful story that really will strengthen your faith and grow your overall relationship with God.
August 4, 2020
This book is challenging me and encouraging me to grow in my relationship with God. The entire book references scripture and directs you to God. It is amazing. If you’re ready to grow in your faith, to stand up and walk out your faith, this book us for you. If you’re ready to choose to fear the Lord rather than man, this book is for you.
August 5, 2020
Katie Westenberg speaks from a place of on-the-ground experience of fear and examines what it is to place fear in its right place. She talks of how our life can be changed by a vertical fear as opposed to that horizontal-facing fear of circumstances. Fear is the new brave, Katie says. The journey of discovery which she shares will be life changing if you are brave enough to embrace it.
Currently reading
August 5, 2020Do you schedule time to read each day? I not, you want to start. If you do, you will want to expand your reading time. I started reading Katie Westenberg's "I Chose Brave" this weekend and was immediately drawn into it. Katie does a beautiful job of bridging the author to reader gap. We are drawn into her book is a lovely way that makes you want more. You will love your journey with her.
August 5, 2020
Katie's writing style of blending real-life experience, referencing Bible verses, and funny anecdotes make "I Choose Brave" an engaging read. I've giggled, I've teared up, and I've found myself underlining phrases to contemplate later. As a lifetime Christian, I am being challenged to think of fear in a new way because of Katie's deep dive into what the Bible says about fearing God.
August 5, 2020
“How does a person live in the real brokenness of this world and not feel completely frozen by fear?”
We are not helpless or hopeles! Katie encourages us to look at HIS game plan in I Chose Brave, Embracing Holy Courage and Understanding Godly Fear. Such a timely message of hope and encouragement for such a time as this!
We are not helpless or hopeles! Katie encourages us to look at HIS game plan in I Chose Brave, Embracing Holy Courage and Understanding Godly Fear. Such a timely message of hope and encouragement for such a time as this!
August 7, 2020
Isn’t God’s timing amazing. As we navigate these uncertain times, this feels like a lifeline, an invitation to dig deep into His word. Katie holds nothing back, no pithy meme, she directs us to His word time and time again. Fear nothing, yet fear the Lord. This book will take you to a deeper view of His greatness and how that alone will carry us through our darkest days.
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August 14, 2020Katie teaches us the true meaning of to be brave
Katie shows us how God can take what we consider to be the "messy"part of our lives (or even a while messy life) and make something beautiful out of the ashes. She makes us take a longer look at being brave and fearing the Lord. Thank you Katie for this challenge!
Katie shows us how God can take what we consider to be the "messy"part of our lives (or even a while messy life) and make something beautiful out of the ashes. She makes us take a longer look at being brave and fearing the Lord. Thank you Katie for this challenge!
August 18, 2020
In “I Choose Brave,” Katie seamlessly weaves the stories of imperfect Bible characters, her own life events, and the biblical truths of Scripture into each chapter. There are thought provoking nuggets of discovery on each page and I find myself revisiting them throughout the day. We live in a scary world governed by a big God. Join us all as we learn that fear really is the new brave!
December 28, 2021
When I first heard of this book coming out I knew I wanted to read it! Bravery? The fear of the Lord? Count me in :) I was not disappointed. I thoroughly appreciated how deep and biblical This book was while still being down to earth and an “easy” read. I highly recommend it. Without spoiling the book: be prepared with tissues if you’re prone to cry because Katie’s testimony is so touching!
January 14, 2024
What does is mean to fear the Lord?
I honestly didn’t even know this was a question until I read this book. I had no idea there was so much meaning behind the command to fear the Lord.
Not only does this book help you narrow down fears but it helps you build a fear for God.
I would highly recommend this to anyone. I think you could read it a million times over and always learn something new.
I honestly didn’t even know this was a question until I read this book. I had no idea there was so much meaning behind the command to fear the Lord.
Not only does this book help you narrow down fears but it helps you build a fear for God.
I would highly recommend this to anyone. I think you could read it a million times over and always learn something new.
July 31, 2020
I Choose Brave is a wonderfully organized reflection on faith. I appreciate Katie Westernberg's humanity and insight in this book. Recommended inspirational reading that is interesting and well-developed.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews