You Already Belong
Written for 11-16-year-olds, You Already Belong by Dr. Heather Thompson Day, is a 40-day devotional journey of belonging. Within these 161 pages, readers can discover who they are as God’s child. They can see how self-compassion; being kind to yourself, and acknowledging your feelings, better prepares them to extend compassion to others.
You Already Belong enables the reader to see how it is possible to live securely from who they are in Christ, build resilience in the face of rejection, and form authentic relationships built on belonging. Not based on performance.
What’s Inside You Already Belong
Each day’s entry has a short devotional story about real student situations, faith, and emotions, followed by questions for reflection. The reading ends with a Heart Check. Here, readers turn what they read into action.
This book can be used for personal quiet time or family devotions. I can see it being a helpful tool for youth group leaders as they minister to those in their care.
Important to Remember
In her conclusion, the author states:
Knowing that we belong changes the way we show up in the world. Knowing who we are frees us from the need to prove ourselves to others. You won’t feel the need to push others down to feel important or leave people out because you are scared there won’t be enough attention for you.
You belong. You have value. You are worthy.
Final Thoughts
Although You Already Belong is a serious book about serious topics, the spiritual truths are delivered in the conversational style of a friendly mentor. A mentor who comes alongside the reader with understanding, wisdom, love, and acceptance.
This is a book I highly recommend for middle graders, high schoolers, parents, and youth leaders. I not only wish You Already Belong was available as my son navigated middle and high school, but I wish it was available when I went through those years, as well.
Looking for another review? How about this one?
I wish you well.
Sandy
Here’s what you can expect from me. In my posts, you’ll find words of encouragement for writers, book reviews, and discussions on the craft of writing. I am a former elementary school teacher, regular contributor to Guideposts devotional books, and a conference speaker. I write articles, devotions, and stories for adult and children’s publications. You can find me every Tuesday and Thursday at www.sandykirbyquandt.com. Please stop by.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher for a fair and honest review. Which is what I gave.