Ever thought about how much you read...that's not a book?
Maybe you read a magazine, or a flyer, something in a printed form, but there's so much we read that's not a hardcopy, and that's on our devices.
Scrolling through Instagram, along the Facebook newsfeed, Twitter, or text messages, we probably get quite a bit of words in, but what's the quality of this kind of reading?
In an image-saturated world, we're missing out on the benefit of reading that creates thoughtful consideration of a topic. One tidbit from social media has us thinking alright, but those kind of hot takes don't usually lead us to an expansive discussion or good communication.
So, as you consider where your eyes spend the most time, here's some book ideas for your shelf to get you engaging thoughtfully.
Christian Living
This was a very timely read for me. In this season of life, where there are many struggles within the church, I found the Lord leading me through conviction about my own prideful tendencies and his gracious work in my life through difficult circumstances. Find my full review here. (5 stars)
Again, the Lord works in many ways to bring truth to my life in the middle of trying situations. This too was timely and led me to reflect on the biblical truths related to how I use my words and how I could use them. Find my review here. (5 stars)
Written for the working woman who struggles to balance life and career, this book helps provide a biblical worldview of our work and priorities. Such a good read! Find my review here. (5 stars)
If you've followed Tim Challies on Instagram, or read his daily blogroll, you'll be familiar with the beautiful quote graphics that Jules Koblun creates. This book is a collection of those quotes with a devotional to guide us into knowing more about God and how he speaks, and enjoying him through habits of reading the Word, prayer, fellowship and corporate worship. I read this during my morning devotional time, it's really good! (5 stars).
Theology
"Theology is for doxology and devotion - the praise of God and the practice of godliness." This book helps us learn theological concepts, in a way that's easy to understand, and shows us how our study of who God is impacts our worship of Him. A really great book! Find my review here. (4 stars)
Bible Study
I really enjoyed this commentary on the book of Revelation. For me, it's always seemed so complicated and I've felt unsure with all the imagery. I'm not an expert now by any means, but it gave me the historical context and an understanding of the audience to whom this letter was written, which really helped me in my reading. This commentary series is target for the lay person, so even if you're not theologically trained, this is a great resource. I highly recommend it! (5 stars)
I enjoyed reading this commentary on the books of Ezra, Nehemiah and Esther, as the exiles return to Jerusalem and the struggles they face in restoring the city, the temple and their worship. I was particularly encouraged by Ezra, whose wise and decisive leadership noted the roles and responsibilities lacking among the exiles and sought to gather people with the skills and abilities needed. This is so important for us in our churches, to pay attention to our teams and bring others alongside us as we build up those around us. (4 stars)
Christian Fiction
I've almost read all of this author's books and I'm really enjoying her lyrical writing! This story is about a young girl, whose mother was a famous ballerina, not only for her skill, but also because of how her career ended one night by a fire in the studio that was set intentionally. As her mother passes away, the mystery lives on and threatens to impact her own future in ballet.
Her brother was born disfigured. His presence causes fear and judgement by others, so he's lived in isolation. The promise of healing through a new experimental surgical procedure entices them both and they begin treatments. An evil doctor, a man with a disability and a young physician trying to do what's best. A Frankenstein-esque story that asks powerful questions about life, hope and faith.
What have you read lately that you'd recommend??
