A fairly short but nourishing book by one of the best-known theologians of the past century. Tozer may not have been a very present husband or father, but he passionately pursued knowing and preaching God throughout his life. His goal with this book (and perhaps his whole ministry)? “I want deliberately to encourage this mighty longing after God. The lack of it has brought us to our present low estate.” (p. 17) He speaks much truth in this meaty classic.
Read MoreWe become sanctified or “set apart as holy” when we receive the gift of salvation. In this short but powerful book, David Powlison helps us understand the other side of sanctification - the process of growing into our holiness throughout the rest of life after salvation. And although we are not puppets in that process, we tend to overcomplicate it. Powlison helpfully addresses overgeneralizations and other problems that confuse Christians as we seek to grow into who we already are in Christ.
Read MoreWow! Now, I understand why this book is such a classic. Knowing God is a rich and rewarding read. J.I. Packer has gifted the world with a thorough and thought-provoking treatment of what it means to know God in "real life," not just as a theological exercise. I particularly enjoyed the way the author unpacked God's attributes. Packer emphasizes that the study of God is for one reason: to know and enjoy God, not to be puffed up or for intellectual pursuit. And the more we know him, the more we can respond out of growing love and obedience. I read this book one chapter at a time, slowly digesting, processing, and taking notes, and I recommend that method due to its rich density. A study guide is also available.
Read More“Professing Christians in staggering numbers don’t understand or ascribe to the most basic beliefs of the faith they claim to stake their lives on." (p. 4) Jen Wilkin & J.T. English have co-written this succinct yet meaty book to address that issue. They aim to help Christians understand that we are called to know God with our minds, with the goals of loving him more, proclaiming him faithfully, and living out the truths found in the Bible. Like a mini-theology course accessible to anyone, the authors cover major, core (essential) beliefs of the Christian faith. I regularly refer to this as I study the Bible and write.
Read MoreThis is a concise, no nonsense guide to help readers learn how to study the Bible. Reading and immersing ourselves regularly in the Bible leads to endless treasures, but the primary goal of God’s word is to know and love God more. As author Jen Wilkin says, “…the heart cannot love what the mind does not know.” (p. 31) However, Christians often struggle with approaching and understanding the Bible. Wilkin explains a simple and time-honored approach, “the inductive method,” and ends each chapter with reflection questions. A helpful guide to overcoming any intimidating feelings associated with reading the Bible in order to begin enjoying its benefits.
Read More“There is a gap between our love for the gospel and our love for godliness. This must change. It’s not pietism, legalism, or fundamentalism to take holiness seriously.” (p. 21) Kevin DeYoung offers grace- and truth-filled encouragement for living lives pleasing to God. Addressing issues such as motivation and obstacles, DeYoung guides readers through practical application and wisdom on how to live more fully into who we already are in Christ. His self-stated goal is not to make readers feel defeated, but instead “hopeful about holiness.” (p. 107) I think he achieved his objective.
Read MoreThe time-tested “inductive Bible study method” is a way of letting the Bible speak for itself. It involves reading a passage, making observations and interpretations, and then applying what is learned. The authors of this book offer a step-by-step guide to the inductive method with diagrams and examples to help. Although Bible studies can be very valuable, there is no substitute to opening the Bible and reading it yourself. This is an excellent guide to get started.
Read MoreDane Ortlund strips down spiritual growth (or "sanctification") to its core in this beautifully written follow-up to his book Gentle & Lowly. In Deeper, he answers the question: "What must happen in the individual human heart to get traction and grow?" Ortlund articulates why Christ is the answer in such a relatable and engaging way that it just might change your view on spiritual growth. Read if you are experiencing stagnation or regression in your Christian walk or need a refreshing reminder of the gifts found in Christ (and why we should never stop going deeper).
Read MoreHansen engagingly lays out a compelling case that Biblical masculinity means showing up, taking responsibility, and protecting the vulnerable. It’s a good resource for men that would generate interesting group discussions. But I also recommend it for women who want to learn new ways to support the men in their lives.
Read MoreSometimes, even decades after becoming followers of Christ, we can find ourselves needing to remember what we already know. This profound yet easy-to-understand classic provides an excellent refresher on the foundations of the faith and a thorough examination of the person of Christ. It also reminds us how to live as followers of Christ. Study questions included.
Read MoreMacDonald uses relatable stories and metaphors to help readers understand how change begins in the heart and why attending to one's inner world is a critical foundation for spiritual growth and maturity. Read if you feel angry, burned out, stagnant, overwhelmed, overworked, or disconnected from God. Or to reset your approach to spiritual life. (The book includes a helpful study guide).
Read MoreThe best way to explain the book's purpose might be to use the author’s own words: “…it is an attempt to make our mental image of who God is more accurate.” (127). It’s beautifully written and destined to become a classic in Christian literature.
Read MoreAs a self-proclaimed layman of the faith, Lewis humbly puts forth the explanations that helped him understand seemingly unfathomable spiritual mysteries. He does this in an engaging way that makes the book the enduring classic that it has become.
Read MoreThis tender book journals a father’s travels through a dark valley after the sudden death of his son. But it’s also a believer’s guide to mourning in light of the gospel. And whether the reader's loss is recent or long past, the insight Challies offers is valuable.
Read MoreKeller takes a deep and helpful dive into the profound topic of prayer - our conversations with God. Even the disciples wondered how to pray, asking Jesus to teach them. With practical insights and tapping into the Bible and the works of great Christian thinkers, Keller helps readers learn how to go deeper. A well-researched and accessible book, it’s had a measurable impact on my prayer life.
Read MoreBased on a lifetime of teaching, coaching, and experiencing overwhelm himself, Tommy Thompson has created a compassionate and practical guide for identifying and dealing with overload. Through personal examples and Biblical wisdom, he helps us breathe again. (Companion Bible study also available).
Read MoreReading this book by pastor, author, and counselor Nicole Unice felt like a much-needed relational and communication boot camp. She teaches readers how to lean in during pivotal moments of conflict to experience “miracle moments” of growth and healing. (Companion Bible study also available).
Read MoreLawyer and author Justin Earley offers practical guidance for re-framing the habits that fill our days and shape our hearts. With refreshing candor and a succinct writing style, Earley makes a compelling argument about the impact of our “automatic behaviors.” For anyone concerned about spiritual formation, technology’s soul impact, and the power of our choices, check it out.
Read MoreBy humbly and authentically sharing his personal experiences in life and prayer, Miller helps us to get real about our preconceptions, misconceptions, and even ignorance about our conversations with God. He skillfully shows us how to make prayer a vital and valuable part of everyday life - helping us see that the “work” of prayer isn’t work at all.
Read MoreEugene H. Peterson encourages readers to continue in the ancient and valuable tradition of "praying everything they lived and living everything they prayed over the long haul." Using the Psalms the Israelites sang on the ascent to Jerusalem for festivals as a guide, he walks us through critical areas of growth and formation on the Christian pilgrimage. Topics include work, happiness, obedience, perseverance, hope, and more.
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