Lottie, an elderly woman living in a care home, is the subject of this touching short story by Eric Schumacher. As her death draws near, Lottie reflects on the memories triggered by her various names. Ultimately, readers learn which of those names is most important to her and why. This story stayed with me long after I read it, prompting reflection on my names, what they signify, and why they matter.
Read MoreRyan Whitaker Smith has curated a delightful selection of Christmas-themed writings by beloved and prolific writer, G.K. Chesterton. Following each sample with a thoughtful response, Smith unpacks Chesterton’s wisdom and humor. Each day’s reading concludes with a scripture selection and reflection questions. Winter Fire is a refreshing, unique Advent devotional. And the cover art is very attractive, making it a lovely gift.
Read MoreThis book series by Sharon Brown follows the intersecting lives of four very different women as they learn to trust and follow God in all things. The stories read like non-fiction; the characters seem like real people (ones who would make great friends!) with relatable stories, problems, and relationships. As an added bonus, Brown has also written study guides for each volume to help readers benefit from the lessons in the books.
Read MoreIn 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.
Read MoreIt 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.
Read MoreJared 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.
Read MoreThis lovely volume contains twice-daily meditations and reflections from beloved English pastor Charles Spurgeon. Spurgeon’s devotions, written over 100 years ago, have been carefully updated to modern English by pastor Alistair Begg of Truth for Life. My husband and I will be using this book each morning and evening throughout 2026 to help us abide in and meditate on God’s Word. We also hope it will provide good springboard material for discussion on our nightly walks or at the dinner table.
Read MoreWhen we pray “your kingdom come” in the Lord’s Prayer, what does that mean? Guthrie explores this fascinating question in The Son of David, her third book in the “Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament” series. Through ten weeks of study through the Old Testament Historical Books (Joshua through Esther), Guthrie “enables us to see the kingdom of God not only as it once was, but also as it is now, and as it will be one day.” Once again, she deepened my understanding of history, the Christian faith, and how Jesus fulfills Scripture.
Read MoreKristin 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.
Read MoreAs 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.
Read MoreThe second book in Guthrie's series "Seeing Jesus in the Old Testament" covers the books of Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. This series is one of my favorite Bible studies, helping me to see the overarching story of the Bible and its subject (Jesus) in a fresh light. Through rich and engaging Bible study, accessible teaching, and interesting group discussion questions, Guthrie walks individuals or groups through the Pentateuch, pointing to "the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world."
Read MoreIn Treasures in the Dark, Katherine Wolf writes with the authority of one who wrestles with ongoing health challenges. In this book, she offers ninety authentic, powerful insights, always viewing her experiences through a faith lens. Wolf’s relatable humor often shines, lightening without dismissing or trivializing weighty concerns. I highly recommend this for anyone struggling with the emotional and spiritual tolls of suffering. Also makes a nice gift for a hurting friend.
Read MorePaul 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.
Read MoreA well-organized, comprehensive, and thoughtful book on suffering. Pastor and author Tim Keller begins by examining the topic of suffering from historical, cultural, and religious perspectives. Next, he outlines Biblical teachings on suffering, clearly demonstrating how Christianity gives the only meaningful answers and tools for navigating hardship. Finally, he offers practical advice on how to endure and even thrive despite suffering.
Read MoreThe fact that author David Powlison is also a counselor and teacher is evident in this slim yet rich book of wisdom for the suffering. His words are Biblically-grounded but also steeped in the reality of lived experience. The combination makes his book deeply comforting to any Christian dealing with sorrow, loss, or misery. I refer back to Powlison’s insights whenever I need a fresh reminder that walking with God through everything changes everything.
Read MoreIn this multi-layered masterpiece about his winding journey toward faith in God, the ancient Christian philosopher and theologian Augustine weaves together vulnerable, relatable confessions about his life, thoughts, and feelings. As a mother of four, I especially loved the way he included mentions of his mother’s passion for her son’s soul. Her desire for Augustine to know and love God was touching. Don’t be put off by the age of this work (written between 397-400 AD); Augustine’s story is timeless and a good reminder of the long-lasting benefits of sharing our faith stories.
Read MoreThese forty short but powerful devotions are intended to be used during the forty days leading to Easter, a season known as Lent on the Christian calendar. Tripp’s stated intention with these reflections is to guide the reader deeper into understanding our sin to more fully comprehend God’s grace and the marvelous gift of salvation in Christ. The focus on sin, so rare in today’s feel-good climate, was surprisingly refreshing. The book helped me to see my sin in a deeper (and surprisingly, more hopeful) way. After reading the devotion each morning, the reflection questions and suggested Bible passages gave me food for thought throughout the day.
Read MoreI am not surprised that Allen Levi’s first novel, Theo of Golden, landed on many “Favorite Book Lists.” It is artfully written, carefully crafted, and absorbing. Levi brings setting and characters to life with a believable and touching story about the power of listening, connecting, and caring for others. I hope it is the first of many books from this talented and insightful author.
Read MoreIn a book written as much to himself as his readers, Kevin DeYoung seeks to get to the heart of the issues underlying persistent busyness in modern culture. His goal is to give “highly practical and accessibly theological” advice, sharing his life as a case study. He offers three dangers to avoid, seven diagnoses to consider, and one “thing you must do.”
Read MoreIf you are struggling to make better choices with your time, this bestseller by James Clear is brimming with unique suggestions. Though not biblically-based, it is interesting to read it with a mindset of establishing Christian rhythms and godly habits.
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