Brianna Lambert asserts that God made us not just to work but to enjoy created things. She outlines “10 kinds of hobbyists based on the deeper joys that drive them, exploring a wide range of playful activities and outlining how they benefit us and others. She even lists pitfalls to watch for in each category. If, like me, you sometimes battle the need to feel “productive,” or you balk at the thought of being “lazy,” this book may feel freeing. Or, if you have been seeking new ways to rest, spend your free time, or cut down on social media usage, this is a worthwhile read. Maybe it will inspire new ways to express the creativity God instilled in you.

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This is the kind of book I like to read when I want to remind myself of God’s greatness. Although I have committed my life to him, it is all too easy to get caught up in the muck and mire of life, forgetting how awesome, powerful, and amazing God is. As author Jackie Hill Perry dives into God’s holiness, she helps readers understand that trust in God grows as we learn to appreciate his “otherness.” In reminding us all the ways that God is completely different and above us, Hill helps us deepen our sense of awe and wonder.

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Having read Kevin Burrell’s faith/bird essays, I knew I would fall in love with his book, and I did. Considering Sparrows is absolutely delightful! The bird stories are fascinating and entertaining, and Burrell creatively ties together lessons learned from birds to biblical truths from the book of Philippians. He even adds a solid dose of humor (loved the mallard story!). All around, a wonderful book that would also make a great gift. Burrell has a free study guide on his website, making it easy to use the book for group study.

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Matthew Bingham’s rich dive into the roots of reformed Christianity offers relatable, practical wisdom for growing in spiritual maturity. Bingham confidently and positively addresses criticisms of Protestantism and clears up misconceptions about our oft-maligned Puritan ancestors’ impact on the faith. A Heart Aflame for God inspires a desire to practice Bible reading, biblical meditation, and prayer with greater diligence and hopeful expectation. This ranks as one of my favorite books!

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In this follow-up to their memoir, Hope Heals, Jay and Katherine Wolf offer encouragement for Christians living in the space between expectations and reality. They know that space well, having personally navigated it together since Katherine’s debilitating stroke at age 26. With the clear-eyed realism that comes from suffering, the Wolfs share authentic comfort grounded in biblical truth.

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It can be tempting to think of Ecclesiastes as the “depressing” book of the Bible, with its assertions that “everything is meaningless.” But Bobby Jamieson thoughtfully challenges that notion. He shows us how Ecclesiastes offers surprising and freeing answers to questions about life’s meaning and purpose, and it points readers to where we will find true and lasting joy. This book is rich and thought-provoking, and beautifully-written.

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Jared Wilson shares sound biblical teachings and vulnerable personal stories to show readers “how God’s perfect love fills our deepest longing” to be fully known, yet loved anyway. But this is not just a book about being loved - it is about how God made us to love him and how his love enables us to love others well.

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Kristin Couch shares real-life examples of “the fruit of the Spirit” in this sweet book. From a kind neighbor to a gentle grandfather to a patient family friend - her stories beautifully illustrate how the Holy Spirit quietly works to make us more like Christ. Combined with relevant Scripture reflections, Couch’s book is an encouraging read for anyone frustrated with the sometimes slow pace of sanctification.

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As Christians, the work of our lives is staying the course of faith through seasons of suffering, waiting, doubting, busyness. And though the Holy Spirit empowers us, perseverance requires something of us: our daily, faithful intention to follow and trust God, no matter what is happening in and around us. Glenna offers practical and biblical advice to help us along the way.

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Paul David Tripp knows his topic well from navigating life with a debilitating kidney disease for years. Recognizing that our lowest times make us vulnerable to spiritual drift, he aims to encourage sufferers to be alert and seek comfort in God’s grace when suffering. Writing with honesty and spiritual clarity, Tripp offers sound theological guidance, biblical comfort, and compassionate empathy to readers. I especially benefited from his thought-provoking list of the things we bring to our suffering that increase our pain.

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