Book Review: I’ll Start Again Monday by Lysa TerKeurst

Read this I’ll Start Again Monday book review to learn how Lysa TerKeurst’s insights can transform your faith, habits, and relationship with food.

I have a confession to make, Sis. For years, I’ve battled an unhealthy relationship with food. I’ve been on both ends of the spectrum—either not eating enough or overindulging to the point of discomfort. There was no middle ground, just a constant tug-of-war that left me feeling defeated and ashamed. If you can name a diet, I’ve tried it. Keto? Check. Weight Watchers? Been there. Juice cleanses? Oh, the memories! Yet, nothing ever worked long-term.

It wasn’t until someone in a Facebook group casually mentioned I’ll Start Again Monday by Lysa TerKeurst that everything clicked for me. I had no idea that my unhealthy eating habits were more than a physical struggle—they were deeply spiritual. Reading this book felt like God shining a light on an area of my life that I had been too afraid to confront. It’s safe to say this book has forever changed how I view food, faith, and myself.

Let me take you on this journey through this I’ll Start Again Monday book review and show you why this book needs to be on your reading list.

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My Honest I’ll Start Again Monday Book Review & Why It’s Different

At first glance, I’ll Start Again Monday might seem like just another book about food and dieting, but it’s so much more. Lysa doesn’t offer a meal plan, calorie count, or a list of foods to avoid. Instead, she takes you on a journey of self-reflection and spiritual growth. This book is not about losing weight; it’s about losing the weight of guilt, shame, and unhealthy patterns that have held us captive for far too long.

Lysa writes with such authenticity and vulnerability that you feel like you’re chatting with a close friend. She’s walked the path of struggle and shares her own stories of triumphs and setbacks, which makes her advice feel relatable and attainable.

Food as a Spiritual Struggle

One of the most profound truths I learned from this book is that my battle with food wasn’t just a matter of willpower—it was a matter of worship. Lysa reminds us that anything we turn to for comfort, satisfaction, or identity outside of God can become an idol. For me, food had taken that place. When I was stressed, I reached for snacks. When I was lonely, I drowned my feelings in chocolate. Instead of turning to God, I turned to food, and that realization was both humbling and freeing.

Lysa explains this concept beautifully through Scripture, reminding us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Caring for ourselves is an act of worship, and the way we approach food can either glorify God or reflect our own struggles with control and satisfaction.

The Power of “Boundaries”

One of my favorite parts of the book is when Lysa talks about boundaries. She emphasizes that boundaries are not restrictions but blessings that protect us. This was a complete mindset shift for me. I always saw healthy eating as a chore or punishment for overeating. Lysa challenged me to view boundaries as guardrails that keep me aligned with God’s plan for my life.

For example, she talks about learning to say no—not just to food but to the lies we tell ourselves. Lies like, “I’ll never change” or “I’ll start again Monday.” By setting boundaries, we can break free from those cycles of self-defeat and step into the freedom God wants for us.

Practical and Spiritual Tips

Lysa doesn’t just leave you with spiritual truths; she also provides practical tools to help you on your journey. One of the most helpful exercises for me was journaling about my triggers. What situations or emotions lead me to overeat or skip meals? Writing these down helped me recognize patterns and allowed me to pray over them.

Another gem from the book is her emphasis on Scripture memorization. Lysa encourages readers to replace negative thoughts with God’s truth. For example, when I feel tempted to overeat out of stress, I remind myself of Matthew 4:4: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” These Scriptures have become my lifeline, reminding me that God’s Word sustains me in ways that food never could.

A Message of Grace

Perhaps the most beautiful takeaway from I’ll Start Again Monday is the reminder that God’s grace is sufficient for every misstep. Lysa writes, “God doesn’t expect us to be perfect. He wants us to make progress.” This truth was a balm to my soul.

For years, I lived in a cycle of shame, feeling like a failure every time I gave in to unhealthy eating habits. Lysa’s words reminded me that my worth isn’t tied to what I eat or how I look. My identity is rooted in Christ, and His grace empowers me to start again—not just on Monday, but every single day.

How This Book Changed My Life

Reading I’ll Start Again Monday transformed the way I think about food and my body. I no longer view food as the enemy or the solution to my problems. Instead, I see it as a gift from God, meant to nourish and sustain me.

I’ve also stopped striving for perfection. Instead, I focus on making small, intentional choices that honor God and my body. Some days are harder than others, but I’ve learned to give myself grace and lean on God’s strength.

Why Every Christian Mom Needs to Read This Book

Sis, if you’ve ever struggled with your relationship with food or your body, this book is for you. Lysa’s words will inspire you to look beyond the surface and address the deeper spiritual issues at play. She’ll challenge you to replace lies with God’s truth, set healthy boundaries, and walk in the freedom that comes from His grace.

But more than that, this book is a reminder that we don’t have to do this alone. God is with us in every step of the journey, cheering us on and giving us the strength to overcome.

Final Thoughts

I’ll Start Again Monday is not just a book—it’s an invitation to experience God’s transformative power in one of the most personal areas of our lives. It’s a reminder that our struggles with food are not about the food itself but about the deeper hunger in our hearts for God.

If you’re ready to break free from unhealthy patterns and step into a healthier, more grace-filled way of living, I can’t recommend this book enough. It’s practical, spiritual, and filled with the kind of wisdom that only comes from someone who’s walked the road themselves.

So, Sis, what are you waiting for? Grab a copy of I’ll Start Again Monday and let God start working in your heart and your habits. Trust me, it’s a journey worth taking.