August Book Recommendations

Well, here we are at the end of summer already. Where did the days go? If you’re looking for some good books to read this fall, here are this month’s recommendations. 

 

Fiction – The Mischief Thief by Johnnie Alexander (KU)

 

I enjoyed this mystery about a missing racehorse. There’s no romance in it, but the main characters are engaging, and the plot has twists and turns. Adam is a minister who has been fired because of his father’s involvement with the racehorse. After Adam catches a desperate con artist in the act of stealing from him, these two unlikely allies team up and work together to thwart a sinister plot and save the life of a special horse. If you like mysteries that are interesting but not intense, I think you’ll enjoy this one. 

 

 

Nonfiction – When Life Hurts: Finding Hope and Healing from the Pain You Carry by Jimmy Evans

 

Everyone carries hurts from their past, but sometimes we don’t know how to heal from them. This book is encouraging, practical, and filled with truth. One point that resonated with me is how sometimes it’s the “little” or “insignificant” events that actually cause deep wounds or lead us to believe lies for years after. Once we realize this, we can address those hurts and wrong beliefs—instead of trying to convince ourselves that “it wasn’t a big deal.” The author shares stories from his own life, offering empathy and hope. If you’re carrying pain from the past, this book uses biblical truths and practical tools to help you experience God’s healing work in your heart.

 

 

Devotional – I Come Quietly to Meet You: An Intimate Journey in God’s Presence by Amy Carmichael – Devotional Readings Arranged by David Hazard (KU)

 

I’m loving this book! It’s a compilation of Amy’s writings into a 40-day devotional format. (David Hazard wrote a prayer for the end of each devotion.) Amy’s insight, passion, and teachable heart always inspire me. She had such a deep grasp of God’s love and grace in the face of so much darkness and suffering. Since I don’t have all of her books, this is a great way to read her encouragement and wisdom in bite-size pieces. (Some of the wording is old fashioned, but the beautiful truths still come through clearly.) I highly recommend it! 

 

Grief & Grace

“And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died.” –1 Thessalonians 4:13–14 (NLT)

 

“We grieve with hope, but we still grieve.” This is a sentence I’ve repeated several times this month as I’ve asked friends to pray for me.

 

A couple of weeks ago, a close friend of my family collapsed unexpectedly. A few days later, as I drove for hours on my way to attend his memorial service, so many thoughts were going through my head. 

 

It shouldn’t be this way. 

He was so young.

I miss his jokes. 

He’s enjoying heaven with Jesus. 

He didn’t have long enough here on earth. 

 

You know what it’s like . . . how your thoughts bounce around and your emotions swing from laughing at old memories to crying for the days to come without that person. 

 

Grief is a strange thing. To me, it feels like leftover night, when your mom used to put whatever was left in the fridge all week on the table. You’ve got some rice, chicken, some meatloaf, a few biscuits, a little lasagna, and maybe some potato soup. It doesn’t all fit together, but the fridge needs to be cleaned out, so there it is.

 

It’s not easy to navigate the volume and variety of thoughts and emotions that bombard us when we’re grieving. As I drove, I used the time to process and to pray about this unexpected grief journey. I’ve learned that in moments of pain, the enemy tries to sneak his lies in. So I asked God to speak truth to my heart and help me hear it over the rest of the clamor.

 

Our Savior is so gracious. All the time. Even in suffering, even in grief. He answered my prayer by reminding me of some important truths.

 

1) People are what matter most to God. 

It’s so easy in this life to get caught up in accomplishments or pursuing goals. But as soon as I got the news, I dropped everything and traveled across several states to be there with his family. Because people matter most.

 

2) Even little things make a difference.

The testimonies of the many ways my friend touched people’s lives were so beautiful. He might have been surprised up in heaven by how many people were impacted by his servant heart and kind actions—things he did just because that’s who he was, not for any recognition.

 

3) Jesus is our source of joy, even in grief—and I want to help as many people as possible to know Him.

This life is hard. We can all testify to that. But knowing Jesus gives us a joy that goes beyond circumstances. He understands every aspect of this crazy life on earth. With Him, we are fully known, fully loved, supernaturally empowered, tenderly cared for, and never alone. I want others to have the joy of knowing Him as well!

 

While I’m still grieving, I’m thankful for these important reminders that have refueled my passion for valuing and serving people, for delighting in Jesus each day, and for doing my small part to help others come to know Him.

This is one way God has given me grace in the grief. There are many others. And I know His grace will continue to pour over me—and you—in every situation we face. 

 

“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever . . . It is good for our hearts to be strengthened by grace.” –Hebrews 13:8–9 (NIV)

 

 

If you’re also grieving, I’d be glad to pray for you so you don’t feel alone on this journey. You can send me a quick note or leave a comment on this post. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted.  

July Book Recommendations

Here are this month’s book recommendations. Enjoy!  

 

Fiction – A Very Barrie Christmas: A Poppy Creek Novella by Rachael Bloome

 

If you’re in the mood for Christmas in July, give this fun story a try! It’s inspired by the classic movie “Christmas in Connecticut.” Frank is an old grump who’s trying to turn over a new leaf for his new bride who loves Christmas. He invites an ex-military young man to stay with them and experience Christmas in Poppy Creek. Unbeknownst to him, Frank’s wife invites her niece to visit at the same time. And the fun begins! Through their days in Poppy Creek, the young people learn not to judge a book by its cover, to overcome their fears, and to give grace. And, of course, they fall in love. I enjoyed this sweet Christmas story, especially Frank’s character. =)

 

 

Nonfiction – Reconnected by Carlos Whittaker

 

Wow! This book is so good and so needed! The author lived an experiment of seven weeks without any screens, because he wanted to rediscover life rhythms from before smart phones invaded our daily lives. He spent two weeks at a monastery, followed by two weeks on an Amish sheep farm, then a few weeks at home with no screens. He shares about his experiences in an entertaining way, while also bringing clarity, conviction, and inspiration. This isn’t another book just telling you to use your phone less. It’s all about reclaiming the beautiful parts of being human—such as wonder, presence, solitude, intuition, genuine community, etc. There are many practical tips for adjusting our screen habits, but even more inspiration for actually living a life we enjoy and that has lasting impact. Most of us need such reminders and encouragement these days. I highly recommend this book!

 

 

Gift Book – Fields of Joy by Ruth Chou Simons

 

I don’t read a lot of gift books, but this one combines simple beauty with spiritual encouragement in a restful, meaningful way. Each two-page spread has an illustration, a Scripture, and a sentence or two about joy. Especially for those who enjoy artwork, this book invites us to pause, consider, and embrace the wonder of joy. In our fast-paced world, taking a few moments to slow down and contemplate anything is a challenge. I hope you’ll check out this book and be blessed as you remember the beauty and blessing of God’s gift of joy. 

Swinging on His Promises

When was the last time you sat on a porch swing? For me there’s just something about a porch swing…as I drift slowly back and forth, time slows, all worries fade to the background, my soul takes a deep breath, and I feel enveloped in peace. 

I don’t know why this happens, but I’m grateful for every time I’ve experienced this gift through the years. Maybe one day I’ll have my own porch swing and won’t have to hope I find one whenever I travel. If you have one, enjoy it! =) 

 

I’ll come back to swings in a bit, but first, I’m still reading through Jeremiah and finding unexpected treasures. This passage recently caught my attention:

 

Then Jeremiah said to the family of the Rekabites, “This is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: ‘You have obeyed the command of your forefather Jehonadab and have followed all his instructions and have done everything he ordered.’ Therefore this is what the LORD Almighty, the God of Israel, says: ‘Jehonadab son of Rekab will never fail to have a descendant to serve me.’” 

–Jeremiah 35:18–19 (NIV) 

 

After I read this, it hit me: Somewhere out there in this wide world, a descendant of Jehonadab lives—and lives for God. 

 

How do I know this?

 

Because God keeps His promises.

 

He promised that Jehonadab would always have a descendant who served God. Wow! What an incredible promise. When I get to heaven, I’m going to look around for those descendants and ask them to share their stories.

 

You know what’s even more incredible? God has given us precious promises that are even more valuable! He has promised: 

 

He will never abandon or leave us (Heb. 13:5)

He will provide for all our needs (Phil. 4:19) 

His power will be made perfect in our weakness (2 Cor. 12:9) 

Nothing can separate us from His love (Rom. 8:38–39)

He works all things for our good (Rom. 8:28)

and many other amazing things!

 

Will you try something with me? Look back over the last few years of your life—the good, the bad, the ugly. Acknowledge whatever feelings you experienced. But then consider objectively and ask yourself, “Did God fail to keep any of His promises to me?” 

 

I’ve been through some crazy, awful, and painful things in recent years. And I can honestly say that God’s promises to me have never failed. Not once. 

 

He never left me.

He met all my needs.

His power was there in my weakness. 

His love remained. 

He worked it all for my good. 

Amen. 

 

So why do I still doubt? Still worry, stress out, panic, or run ahead of God? Because I’m human. You too, right? 

 

Which brings me back to the porch swing. What does it have to do with Jeremiah, Jehonadab, and God’s promises? 

 

As I meditated on God’s faithfulness to keep every single promise, He gave me this picture of a porch swing—as the promises of God to me.

 

When I take the time to remember and rest on His promises, all worries fade to the background, my soul takes a deep breath, and I’m enveloped in peace. 

 

I don’t have to wait until I have a porch swing to experience sweet serenity. God’s Word is here with me always. When I wake up each morning, I can face the day feeling overwhelmed by the pain and struggles—or I can face it by reviewing His promises.

 

God is so gracious to give us what we need when we need it. I needed this new perspective, this new picture in my heart. I may not have an actual porch swing, but I can live each day swinging on His promises! I pray you can too.

 

“Now I am about to go the way of all the earth. You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the LORD your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one has failed.” –Joshua 23:14 (NIV)

June Book Recommendations

Here are this month’s recommendations for some fun summer reading! I hope you’ll enjoy them. Let me know what books you’re loving this summer!  

 

Fiction – Starring Me by Krista McGee

 

If you like YA fiction, this is a clean, sweet, funny read about a teenage girl who gets the chance to chase her acting dream. In the process, more Christians keep coming into her life, and she begins to consider if God really exists. As circumstances, both good and hard, propel her forward, she eventually finds the best love of all in Jesus. The story is loosely based on the biblical story of Isaac and Rebekah. It’s an enjoyable read with heart, humor, and a happy ending!

 

Nonfiction – By the Sea: Glimpses of Eternity, Reflections of Simple Hope by Robin Jones Gunn 

 

This beautiful book contains poems, reflective essays, quotes from classic authors, and stunning photographs—all about the sea. It’s a peaceful, encouraging, uplifting read, a good way to pause and be refreshed in our busy days. Though I’m slightly more of a mountain person than an ocean person, I enjoyed the stories, reflections, and insights the author shares about her connection to the sea and how God has touched her life in so many ways through it. 

 

Children’s – Wild Feelings by Joel Crumbley

 

I liked the fun, rollicking style of this book, yet it still communicates a meaningful message for children. The colorful pictures and rhyming text illustrate different feelings we have in a way that kids can relate to. The book also talks about how to let Jesus help us with our feelings. At the end, there’s a one-page, simple study with a few questions and verses. There’s also a brief explanation of the gospel for anyone who hasn’t heard it. Parents can have fun reading this book with their kids, and they can also talk about the precious truths of Jesus giving us peace, being with us, and being the source of our joy and strength.

 

Seriously, Lord?

When God Asks You to do Something that Doesn’t Make Sense

“This is what the LORD said to me: ‘Go and buy a linen belt and put it around your waist, but do not let it touch water.’ So I bought a belt, as the LORD directed, and put it around my waist.” –Jeremiah 13:1–2 (NIV)

When I read this passage recently, I felt such a kinship with Jeremiah. Though his life, circumstances, and calling were radically different than mine, some things don’t change even hundreds of years later. God told Jeremiah to do something that sounded silly, pointless, even like a waste of time and money, but Jeremiah did it. No questions, no excuses, no stalling. He just obeyed. 

Then God gave him another instruction that seemed odd. And Jeremiah obeyed. 

“Then the word of the LORD came to me a second time: ‘Take the belt you bought and are wearing around your waist, and go now to Perath and hide it there in a crevice in the rocks.’ So I went and hid it at Perath, as the LORD told me” (vv. 3–5).

 

Then God gave him a third instruction, and once again Jeremiah obeyed. 

“Many days later the LORD said to me, ‘Go now to Perath and get the belt I told you to hide there.’ So I went to Perath and dug up the belt and took it from the place where I had hidden it, but now it was ruined and completely useless” (vv. 6–7).

 

And then God explained. And it all made sense. 

“Then the word of the LORD came to me: ‘This is what the LORD says: “In the same way I will ruin the pride of Judah and the great pride of Jerusalem. These wicked people, who refuse to listen to my words, who follow the stubbornness of their hearts and go after other gods to serve and worship them, will be like this belt—completely useless! For as a belt is bound around the waist, so I bound all the people of Israel and all the people of Judah to me,” declares the LORD, “to be my people for my renown and praise and honor”’” (vv. 8–11).

 

This wasn’t just a passing moment in Jeremiah’s life. This experience was recorded, written down, and preserved, so that hundreds of years later, I ended up reading about it…and feeling encouraged. Because I’m not the first person God has interacted with this way. I’m not the first person tempted to say, “Seriously, Lord? You want me to do what? That makes no sense. There’s no point. That’s a waste of time and money.”

 

Jeremiah didn’t say anything like that. But I wonder if he thought it. I wonder if he rolled his eyes while he obeyed. Or if he did it with full confidence that his actions were meaningful.

 

I’d like to be someone who just obeys God’s voice with a smile on my face and faith in my heart. But sometimes I don’t. Sometimes I have a doubting conversation with God—even though I know He is GOD! 

 

“You sure you want me to email that person I just met and share that verse? What if they think I’m a pushy Christian?”

 

“Why do I need to park on this side of the parking lot? What could it possibly matter?” 

 

“I don’t need to go to that event. It’ll just be a waste of time.” 

 

Looking back, I have to laugh at myself and my pathetic attempts to tell God why, in essence, He was wrong. I’m so glad He is patient with me. Because each time I obeyed, I saw Him work—making me a blessing to someone else, giving me blessings I didn’t expect, and reminding that not only does he know all things, but everything He does is for good. 

 

Maybe Jeremiah understood that better than me. Maybe that’s why he didn’t question or hesitate. Maybe when I get to heaven, I’ll ask him about it. =) 

 

Frankly, I’m glad Jesus invites me into an unpredictable adventure with Him. I want to follow and obey Him—even when it doesn’t make sense, even when I laugh, even when I doubt, even when I can’t imagine what good could possibly come from it. Because my Savior never ceases to amaze me. And I end up saying “Seriously, Lord?” in amazement at how awesome He is!

 

For Real – 

When has God nudged you or clearly directed you to do something that made no sense, maybe even sounded ridiculous? How did you respond? I’d love to hear your story of how He amazed you!