Recommended Reads

Yes, I'm a bookworm. Reading is one of my greatest pleasures, and I love to share what I am reading and learning from my reading. I will often have three books going at once—I try to tell myself that I am striving to be well-rounded—there are just so many books, and so little time!

Having the ability to be taught, encouraged, ministered to, and counseled through others' writings is a gift and a blessing. Here are some of my current favorites. I think you will find them helpful, inspiring, and challenging. Each one has something unique to offer. Just click on any of the images to learn more about each book. I hope you will choose one (or more) to jump into!

 

The Red Sea Rules: 10 God-Given Strategies for Difficult Times

 

 This tiny book is packed with help for when we are overwhelmed with life's problems. Using the Israelites' story in Exodus 4 as an example, The Red Sea Rules reveals that even in the midst of seemingly impossible situations, God promises to make a way for us, and that He is in control. The author shares ten strategies to biblically process difficulties and to move from fear to faith.

 

 Off Script: What to Do When God Rewrites Your Life

 

Cary Schmidt transparently shares of his battle with Hodgkin's lymphoma cancer and the truths that God taught him to help encourage others when our lives are suddenly taken "off script." He calls these times our defining moments, and shares ten decisions that will transform your perspective in the midst of trials. He is a gifted counselor and encourages others in how God uses affliction to rewrite our life's story, for our good, and for His glory.

 Morning and Evening: a Devotional Classic for Daily Encouragement

 

Charles Spurgeon wrote this classic daily devotional to be read each morning and evening to encourage his fellow believers. Each devotion is based on a single verse of Scripture, is beautifully written, and even one hundred years later provides rich insight that is instructive and comforting.

The Butterfly and the Violin

 

This is a captivating, fictional account of a once celebrated Austrian violinist, who ends up imprisoned in a concentration camp for smuggling Jews out of Vienna. A painting of a prisoner's artwork captures the story of Adele, who found a way to honor God with her music even in Auschwitz, and how she matured and was refined by suffering. This story speaks of hope in the worst of circumstances, and is based on the historical accounts of the orchestra at Auschwitz.

The Best Yes: Making Wise Decisions in the Midst of Endless Demands

 

This is one of the best time management books I have read for women. The Best Yes will teach you how to prioritize your schedule, apply the Word of God to your daily life, and practice a wisdom-based decision making process. This was my first read for 2015 and it really did impact my decision making by becoming more intentional with how I spend my time. I was inspired by the author's example to make the most of the 168 hours God entrusts me with each week.

Living Well, Spending Less

 

  

Through personal stories, biblical truth, and practical action plans which the author labels her "12 secrets of the good life", you will be inspired to make real and lasting changes to your personal goals, home, and finances. While it is full of practical advice and tips, the author is gifted at sharing how the good life--God's best--is attainable, simple, and free. A great guide for inspiring a life of contentment and personal stewardship!

Happy reading!

"A wise man will hear, and will increase learning; and a man of understanding shall attain unto wise counsels" ~Proverbs 1:5