I enjoy reading, but I sometimes have a hard time carving out time to read books. In addition to that, I’m the sort of person who likes to start books but who rarely finishes a book (I’m a pretty slow reader, but my wife devours books). Even still, there have been a handful of books that have made a tremendous impact on me spiritually and emotionally.
I thought I’d list a few here in case somebody’s looking for a good read:
- Black, Red, and White (The Circle Trilogy) by Ted Dekker
Of all the fiction I’ve ever read, this series is probably my favorite. This vivid portrayal of innocence, temptation, evil, betrayal, forgiveness, legalism, and grace is mixed into a high-energy novel. If you enjoy plot twists, you’ll like the way Dekker keeps you guessing. Note: Here’s a pic I got with Ted at his book signing in Grapevine a few weeks ago. The image is blurry, but the guy in line ahead of me was nice enough to take this on his phone.
- When Heaven Weeps by Ted Dekker
Like the Circle Trilogy, this book totally rocked my world and helped me to reconsider the amazing love of God. Disclaimer: For the Christian genre, this book really pushes the limits in some areas, and I would not recommend it to any pre-teen.
- Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
If you’ve never read anything by Lewis before, prepare to pour over each page he discusses basic Christian doctrine and beliefs. This is deep stuff, but it’s very readable.
- Dangerous Wonder by Mike Yaconnelli
I love the spirit of this book. It’s a refreshing reminder that a relationship with God isn’t something neat and tidy – reserved for a worship service on Sunday mornings.
- Streams in the Desert – by L.B. Cowman
This devotional-style collection of writings has often been a source of hope and strength to me during difficult times of life.
I’d love to hear about particular books (fiction or non-fiction) that have made a difference in your life. If you want to mention specific books of the Bible, that’s fine too. If you don’t mind, tell us the title and author of the book as well as what you liked about it or how it has made a difference in your life.
Thanks for the info on the Dekker books, Kyle. Ever since you mentioned them in your last message I have wanted to ask you about them again. Looks like I have some interesting reading ahead this summer!
Great! Let me know what you think once you finish any of the books, Lisa.
Steve, thanks for the comment. Sounds like a great book!
Other than the Bible, there is one book that I absolutely must mention. The name of the book is “Cross Purposes”, by Dr. D. James Kennedy and Jerry Newcombe. This book has 12 different parts with 4 rich devotionals in each part – each devotional is approximately 2½ pages long. It is written in a manner to where you can start and stop anywhere in the book without any problems (especially good for those, such as myself, that find it extremely difficult carving out time to read books). This book will most definitely refresh one’s understanding of God’s amazing love and grace and is simple in connecting the reader with a personal perspective and worship for Christ. In my opinion, it’s definitely a must-have for any Christian bookshelf.
I highly recommend “Captivating” by Stacy and John Eldridge. The book is written for women (like “Wild at Heart” by John Eldridge is for men), but guys can get a great insight into who God created women to be by reading it. As a woman, this book has shown me how God views women and who we are to the world. This is not a “how-to” book. No formulas for becoming the Proverbs 31 woman (does she really exist?). Just freedom to be the woman God intended me to be.
I’ve also enjoyed the Dekker books! I just finished “Heaven’s Wager”. By the way….the Fort Worth Public Library has all of these titles. You might need to get the book transfered to your local branch and can do so online.
http://fwplhip.fortworthlibrary.org/ipac20/ipac.jsp?session=1QT211G517828.1650&menu=search&aspect=subtab32&npp=10&ipp=20&spp=20&profile=ebranch&ri=&term=dekker+ted&index=.GW&aspect=subtab32#focus
Amanda, both books sound interesting. Sounds like “Captivating” would be a good thing to read because I could certainly use some assistance with “insight” from time to time.
“Heaven’s Wager” is one of the few Dekker books that I haven’t read yet. What did you think? Was it worth the read. What was the best thing about it?
“Heaven’s Wager” is the first in the Martyr’s Song series by Ted Dekker. Dekker takes one of his main characters from “When Heaven Weeps” and brings her full circle as an elderly woman in current times (“Weeps” is set after WWII). It’s definitely worth the read…the author continues his idea about heaven laughing and weeping over our triumphs and trials. For me, the story reminds me of God’s love for us and how desperately He pursues us. I also appreciate Dekker’s reminder that this world is not what it’s all about. I’m looking forward to reading the third of the series, “Thunder of Heaven”.