Redefined: Confronting the Labels That Limit Us

by Arden Bevere

Millennials might endure negative labels from older generations--lazy, broken, entitled, lost--but the most damaging labels are the ones we use on ourselves. Words are powerful. Even when they aren't true, they can begin to shape our perceptions of ourselves and the decisions we make. Yet the only labels that really matter to this, the largest and most diverse generation yet, are the ones with which God originally designated us. What does he call our generation? Sons and daughters .

We are called to change the world and make a huge impact for the kingdom, but we can't do that if we allow ourselves to believe the limiting labels we hear every day. Instead, Arden Bevere calls you to

- know what it means to be a son or daughter of God
- see how God uses the seemingly negative things in our lives for good
- take control of our thoughts and words and replace them with God's thoughts and words
- find freedom from addiction, fear, doubts, regrets, and more

Your life is not an accident, a disappointment, or an inconvenience to God. It's time to redefine, embrace, and walk in your true identity as his beloved child who will do great things in his name. Let Arden Bevere, a positive voice in this generation, show you the way.

Genres: Christian

224 pages, Paperback

Published January 19, 2021

Reviews

[Victoria W. · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book held a lot of promise at the beginning but, in the end, it didn't meet expectations. That's not to say there weren't good parts. Arden Bevere is a powerful communicator with a clear vision and a drive to rally others around his call.

I also appreciated the layout of this book. The idea of taking labels which have followed this generation and redefining them into redeemed qualities part of a godly life was interesting and helped give the book focus and direction. Bevere doesn't shy away from his topics using both personal stories and biblical teaching to explore ten different labels.

I just had two issues with the content that held me back. First, in talking about godly life to an isolated and individualistic culture I would have loved more content (or really any memorable content) about how these qualities fit into godly community. The vast majority of the content was I statements, personal goals, or individual challenges about the reader and God. While I admit we can only work on our own lives the book loses riches by not acknowledging our need for community in faith and ignoring that aspects of faithful living.

The second issue I had was the theology. Now, I know Bevere comes from a famous family but I'm not overly familiar with their theology but there is a feel of Name it and Claim it theology that runs through the book and just left me feeling icky. There were a few chapters like the one on offense and entitlement noticeable that ignored societal injustice and only had small disclaimers on unhealthy systems to set up an argument that honestly felt like if you do (a) for God he will (b) give you said blessings, dreams, desires. Maybe that wasn't Bevere's intention but enough phrasing was similar that's where my mind connected. It was disappointing as there was good content I just had to work to sift it out of the other.

3 out of 5 stars.

"Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc."

[Jen Good · Rating 3 out of 5]

The premise of this book sounded interesting, but it didn’t quite live up to my hopes. Each chapter tackles a label associated with the millennial generation and contrasts it with a biblical identity we can strive for instead. I was wishing for a little more of an emphasis on Scripture rather than the author’s personal stories. I didn’t find it particularly unique among all the books out there on the topic of identity, but it would probably be worth the read for someone in the millennial generation or younger who is looking for encouragement in that area.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Zachary Prewitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Arden's first book and I was beyond excited to see that he had written one. I ordered one very soon after its release - especially after hearing great reviews from a friend who was on his book launch team. I love this reminder that Arden gives us that there are a lot of labels that people will try to put on us and they are meant to limit us. But God has given us a greater label that frees us.

[Richelle Hofer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to admit that I wasn’t expecting much. I figured this was going to be a son riding on the shirt tales of mom and dad... Wow, was I wrong. This book is absolutely fantastic. I read it in a few days and now my son and I are going to break it down week by week one chapter at a time and reread it together. Absolutely fantastic.

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've felt the sting of all the lying labels listed in this book and it's interesting how while so many people can be going though the same things, they are so isolating. This book was a good reminder that the only labels I need to embrace are the ones from God.

Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.

[Lee Garafola · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was excited to start reading this a couple weeks ago I just finished the book and it lived up to exactly what I had expected. It was insightful it was something to take notes along the way, if you’re open to learning there are many lessons that will alter your life for the better and give you a greater edge to helping people.

[Delores Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are many views of how you are handling the labels that are trying to pigeon-hole you in this world. He deals with different labels that are limiting such as lost, broken, doubtful, regretful,offended, lacking, discouraged, entitled, and fearful. He shows how you can turn each one to an asset for the Lord.

[Bianca Gouws · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a game-changer. It opens our eyes to the lies that have been spoken over us as individuals and as a generation and it reminds us of who God says we are who He is calling us to be. A must read!

[Brandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an awesome read! I had hesitations at first because I thought the chapters were basically just simple outlines. But in depth Arden articulated his points very well and in an organized way! I'm excited to read the rest of the Bevere books but honestly , he set the bar really high!

[Gabriella Aspuru · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arden does an exceptional job at acknowledging fears and challenges millennials face in today’s world as Christians. He gives relatable examples and also practical steps on combating labels holding us back from Gods calling. His voice is one we’ve needed as he echos the truths of who God has created us to be throughout these pages.

[Nikole Huntley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was so good! I loved how Arden went through each label and how we need to confront and change them! Highly recommend for anyone that is looking for a change in their mindset!