A Crown That Lasts: You Are Not Your Label

Tebow, winner of the 2017 Miss Universe pageant, debuts with a sincere invitation for readers to separate their identity from earthly accomplishments and reinvest it in their faith. After finishing out her tenure as Miss Universe, the author “watched her identity slip through her fingers” as she “handed over my crown, and with it a giant part of myself.” Time spent languishing in a “no-man’s-land” of personal and career uncertainty taught her to swap out self-confidence rooted in accolades for God’s “everlasting and unchanging” love, accept waiting periods as part of “God’s plan,” and better understand that “life on earth is temporary, but... our ultimate hope lies in eternity,” a perspective readers can emulate by connecting with God through prayer, journaling, or serving others. (Tebow also reminds readers that even while waiting for the next step in God’s plan, they should appreciate the good in the present moment: “God... doesn’t want us to go through life only to look up at the end and realize we missed it.”) Though the glittery pageant industry world of fake eyelashes, hair curlers, and simultaneous privilege and enormous pressure won’t be relatable to most, Tebow’s advice on how to harness God’s “purpose, hope, and ultimately victory” has widespread appeal. Christian women will be inspired and renewed by Tebow’s uplifting message. (Aug.)