WHAT ARE YOU READING?
That's the question we will be asking COF contributors and you, our readers, each month. Is there a book that you just can't seem to put down, that's teaching you a profound spiritual lesson, or making you laugh amid your struggles? We want to hear about it!
JOIN US!
- Tell us in the comments what you are reading.
- Take a picture of what you are reading and post it to your Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter using the hashtag #FFBF
- LinkUp a book review blog post about a favorite book you've read.
Angele Tanyeri from www.angeldancing.com
Praying for Boys by Brooke McGlothlin
This book is great for any parent! With 3 boys to raise, I began to notice the shift in my older son as he approached adolescence. Naturally, I recognize this growth is all part of development; yet raising children in today's society seems more challenging than ever before. This book has wonderful Biblical insight and scripture-based prayers. Very empowering!
Kimberly Amici from www.kimberlyamici.com
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
This book was on my "To Read" list for a long time and I am so glad I am finally getting around to reading it. Documenting a year long journey, each chapter focuses on a different month and the changes the author attempts to make in her life to pursue happiness. This isn't the fleeting kind of happiness that comes from having a perfect environment, it’s the kind of happiness that occurs as a result of living life intentionally, making good choices, and establishing good habits. Why should we pursue this kind of happiness? Gretchen believes that when you are happier, those around you are happier...and I believe that to be true. I have started applying her practical, and thankfully very simple principles to my life and have already noticed a bounce in my step.
You can also find Kimberly at Goodreads.
Kristin Hill Taylor from www.kristinhilltaylor.com
Anchored: Finding Hope in the Unexpected by Kayla Aimee
My journey to motherhood didn’t look like Kayla Aimee’s journey. But both of us became mommas in unexpected ways. We both met God in what were dark seasons of becoming a mom and saw his faithfulness pour into our lives.
In “Anchored,” Kayla refers to who she was before and after giving birth to her daughter at 25 weeks. Scarlette may have weighed less than six sticks of butter but she was a fighter. And that little life changed her momma.
Kayla shares her story beautifully and with truth and humor that will have you laughing one minute and crying before you finish the sentence. And while this story of a micro-preemie wasn’t one she expected or necessarily even wanted, it’s one she shares because in her darkness she found light that can only come from God.
You can also find Kristin Goodreads.
Barbara Ruglio from www.barbararuglio.blogspot.com
Reconcile: Conflict Transformation for Ordinary Christians by John Paul Lederach
The best book I’ve read this year was Reconcile. Recommended by Bill Hybels, founding and senior pastor of Willow Creek Community Church at the 2014 Global Leadership Summit, I picked up this book because I am a classic conflict-avoider. That is, until I get totally fed up, and then I explode and my relationships implode.
Lederach compellingly insists that reconciliation is the heart of the Gospel. God sent Jesus into the world not to straighten us out, not to condemn us, but to bring us home and restore full relationship with Him. Further, He longs for us to mend our relationships with each other.
Reading this book showed me where I was misunderstanding God’s desire for pursuing peace. It’s not about making nice and pretending everything is ok. It’s not about pushing our own way because we are “right.” It’s about engaging each other and hearing each other.
Chelle Wilson from www.treatmetoafeast.com
The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
I am NOT a fan of audiobooks, but because the content is so deep, I am listening to it while walking the dog in the morning. I appreciate Tolle's writing as a companion to my Bible study-who'd have thought. It might not be the first Christian read you'd think of...but surprisingly, it's brilliant.
Mel Schroeder from http://barefootmel.com/
Miracle on Voodoo Mountain by Megan Boudreaux
I love a good memoir, and from the first few pages, I knew that Miracle on Voodoo Mountain would be a favorite. Megan's story of obedience and perseverance as she fights for the children of Haiti is gripping and convicting. Reading about how God did more than she ever could have imagined is a reminder that He can bring light into the darkest of places, even when things feel hopeless. Don't miss this one.
Disclosure: First Friday Books Faves reviews do not necessarily reflect the views of Circles Of Faith. This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for supporting Circles of Faith.