Christian
I’ve found a ton of well-written, insightful books for Christians that I recommend. Most of these could be enjoyed by non-Christians as well, I’ve tried to note any that I don’t think have a broad appeal.
- “The Great Divorce” by CS Lewis - I love his Narnia series and I think that is a GREAT series of books for kids. For adults, I would always recommend “The Great Divorce” and I think it’s interesting regardless of what your beliefs are. Plus, it’s one of those wonderful books that you can read in 2 or 3 hours but that you’ll think about for quite some time. The premise of the book (and it is fiction) is basically a bus load of people leaves hell to go “visit” heaven. The people then get to decide whether to go back to hell (where it’s kind of miserable, but they’re used to it), or to journey into heaven (an unknown). I loved it. I hard a harder time getting into his “Screwtape Letters” which are written as two demons writing back and forth to each other. While still a good book, it took me a while to understand what was going on. If you’re only going to read 1 CS Lewis, make it “The Great Divorce”.
- “48 Days to the Work You Love” by Dan Miller is a GREAT book for anyone looking to change jobs or wondering if all there is to life is a lousy career. There are tons of specific steps to take to find something more satisfying and meaningful and the appendix is full of additional resources.
- “No More Jellyfish, Chicken or Wimps” by Paul Coughlin should be read by every parent in America. Just looking around, I think it’s obvious to most parents that there’s a big problem going on. Kids seem to be more timid, more afraid, and less able to stand up for themselves than ever before. And we’ve done it to them. Mr. Coughlin tackles the issue head on and asks us to face up to what we’re telling our kids and what the impact is. I did think that it could’ve used more practical steps for changing behavior, but it’s a good start and sure to begin a dialogue between parents. Moms - if you find youself stepping in to defend your child from bullies, mean teachers, harsh coaches, etc. you need to read this book!
- “Just Walk Across the Room” by Bill Hybels is perfect for Christians who (like me) have always lacked the courage to share their faith. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this to non-Christians, but it is an excellent resource for Christians of any age who wonder “Is it really my job to share the love of Christ with others? What if it isn’t my gifting? How would I do it anyway?” Read the book and you’ll find practical answers and inspiration.
- I listened to the audiobook “ScreamFree Parenting” by Hal Runkel and I really enjoyed his day to day advice on how to let go of some of those behaviors that make us into crazy parents. Why not give it a try and see if you can put any of his advice to use?
- Beth Moore’s videotape and workbook study called “Breaking Free” is an all time favorite of mine. Find a small group, get the videos and workbooks and fight your way through it. You’ll get to know each other incredibly well, you’ll be forced to re-think the limitations that you’ve put on God’s promises and you’ll release yourself from destructive patterns. While this is very Christian focused, anyone can benefit from the steps and contemplation that the series walks you through. Yes some of it may seem hokey, but the transformation as you refuse to let old patterns bind you up - that makes it all worthwhile. I would not try to just read one of her books. In my opinion, the strength is in her studies that you do as a small group of friends.