Christianity appears to be enjoying a cultural renaissance of sorts. Faith-based films such as “I Can Only Imagine” have out-shined many high-budget Hollywood movies, Christian businesses are enjoying success, religious radio continues to expand across the U.S. and God appears cool once again. Thank goodness.
It’s only fitting that the positive energy keeps flowing into summer, but in the form of a leisurely book. Naturally, the Bible tops all Christian reading lists. Scripture aside, these are books that may inspire, encourage and engage Christians in positive reflection during the dog days of summer.
Faith
by Pres. Jimmy Carter
The 93-year-old former U.S. president, governor of Georgia, international peace advocate, Habitat for Humanity home builder and Sunday school teacher recently published what many believe will be his last work. In this memoir, Pres. Carter reflects on experience and how his faith in God influenced his life’s course. Already a New York Times Bestseller, the 192-page work covers past and present challenges. Through it all, Pres. Carter has kept his Faith in everyday people.
Desiring God: Meditations of a Christian Hedonist
by John Piper
In this revised edition of the classic 1986 work, John Piper calls on Christians to embrace Jesus Christ through joy. Repeatedly citing Scripture, he says that the faithful should view delight as a spiritual end goal. The controversial approach to Christianity has turned many readers’ world upside down. However, reveling in God’s glory to the fullest may not be a bad thing.
Mere Christianity
by C.S. Lewis
C.S. Lewis first released this easily understood Christian doctrine on the radio. Although informal, it’s popularity prompted a written trilogy that includes, “The Case for Christianity,” “Christian Behavior,” and “Beyond Personality.” These three works make up “Mere Christianity,” a vast exploration into the simple truths that run through the faith. The trilogy breaks down the barriers that separate and confine individual denominations in a way that binds all Christians together.
The Confessions of X
by Suzanne M. Wolfe
Christianity Today gave the work an Award of Merit in new fiction. The historical book immerses readers in ancient Carthage and the era’s influences on Augustine of Hippo’s theology. Wolfe culls from history’s shadow a portrait of Augustine and the flesh and blood woman he loved. The novel delves into the couple’s deep, loving relationship and how it was impacted by the brutal world around them.
The Listening Life: Embracing Attentiveness in a World of Distraction
by Adam McHugh
Today’s fast-paced digital life is overwhelming to many people who cannot claim time for themselves or focus on loved ones without distraction. The world of meditation and mindfulness are attracting disconnected people who just want to feel grounded again. This gem throws everyday people a lifeline of sorts as it guides you to the thoughtful world of listening. Biblically-based and tremendously pragmatic, this work helps people to hear in vastly new ways and push back intrusive noise.
Just Immigration: American Policy in Christian Perspective
by Mark R. Amstutz
The political work takes on one of the largest, most conflicting issues of our age. Amstutz dives head long into the immigration debate by arguing for a Christian model to approach the divisive policy issue. In the book, he aims more at shedding Biblical light on the problem than driving home a political agenda. It’s not a light read, but Christian policy hawks may find it to be a page-turner.
Uninvited: Living Loved When You Feel Less Than, Left Out, and Lonely
by Lysa TerKeurst
Writer Lysa TerKeurst bravely explores her inner-most feelings about depression, being devalued and left behind in this book about how to overcome the darkness. Primarily a women’s novel, the author shares difficult early childhood memories and judgment as an adult. All these relatable stories help others to overcome obstacles of their own en route to becoming whole when embracing the goodness of God.
A Lineage of Grace
by Francine Rivers
Another work of fiction written to inspire Christian women, “A Lineage of Grace” culls together five unique stories about unique women in Jesus’ lineage: Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. Each chapter conveys an uplifting message about women from the past that remains relevant in our complicated world. The thoughtful 5-in-1 book stands as an amazingly accessible case study.
Having a Mary Heart in a Martha World: Finding Intimacy with God in the Busyness of Life
by Joanna Weaver
It doesn’t require a wild imagination to recognize the characters in this book’s title. That being said, the Joanna Weaver has sold nearly 1 million editions and climbing. The author focuses on how to create a lasting bond with God while immersed in a hectic life. Although Mary and Martha lived centuries apart, the common thread is that they loved Jesus and struggled with the everyday burdens placed upon them. The inspirational book comes with a study guide and offers methods to overcome feelings of inadequacy among others.
~ Christian Patriot Daily
