What Christian nonfiction book are you reading and how do you feel about it so far?

[Marja, Founder/Moderator]

I love true stories as well Robert, why make anything up when life gives us so many amazing stories :)

[Sister Pam]

My current books include Dark Night of the Soul, Daily Reflections on the Names of God by Ava Pennington, The Daily Devotion Series: the Gospel of John by Kristi Bruchfiel, and Because of This I Rejoice. All of the books are inspirational and offer guidance in life as a Christian. Dark Night of the Soul is more difficult reading since it is steeped in medieval theology. I read sections through and contemplate the big idea of each section. Reading the book in this way facilitates understanding of the concepts. I struggle with seeing the difference between the Dark Night and Depression, although that difference is addressed within the text.

[Brian]

I recently finished a book called "Emotionally Healthy Spirituality" by Peter Scazzero. Its a great read and helps to pull away the layers of the issues that people even/especially Christians tend to neglect or deny. A very helpful and interesting book.

[Susan, Moderator]

Sister Pam wrote: "...I read sections through and contemplate the big idea of each section...."

What a great way to let what you're reading really sink in. I find it beneficial to read Scripture this way too.

[Ikechukwu]

RT pse Growing unto maturity (Spiritual maturity) https://amzn.to/2HTp622 http://bit.ly/OcijOG http://bit.ly/Oci0mV http://bit.ly/2lL1eiH http://bit.ly/UqHjpa #kindle #Nook #Apple #Kobo

[Marja, Founder/Moderator]

I just finished reading this book by Asher Intrater. I actually read it twice, there was so much revelation in it (which I really enjoy, by the way). The author delves deep into the Scriptures to explain the appearances of God in the Old Testament, especially the appearances of the Angel of the Lord.
Anyone in this group who has read this book?

[K.J.]

I have not read this book but it is a very interesting topic. Does the author also discuss New Testament references about Christophanies in the Old Testament or Christ depicted as an Angel such as Jude 1:5?

- https://esv.literalword.com/?q=Jude+5

[Marja, Founder/Moderator]

K.J. The author connects Old and New Testament scriptures in a very clear and precise manner to prove his point of view that Yeshua appears throughout the whole Bible, sometimes as Son of Man, sometimes as Son of God, sometimes as The Angel of the Lord. I would highly recommend it.
K.J. wrote: "I have not read this book but it is a very interesting topic. Does the author also discuss New Testament references about Christophanies in the Old Testament or Christ depicted as an Angel such as ..."

[Brian]

I am reading Diapers to Dorms, by Randy Pardue. This is an excellent book for parents. It takes a look at how we actually want our kids to develop at various stages of their life and how we can parent intentionally to help toward those results. It's Christian, relatable, funny, and very practical with keen insight. Diapers To Dorms: Raising Kids You Actually Like, Who Others Like, and Who Like Themselves

[Robert]

I'm reading Ragamuffin Gospel and loving it! My beliefs totally align with the authors in what living in God's grace looks like to different people.

[Marja, Founder/Moderator]

I read that book many years ago, time to pick it up again maybe :)
Robert wrote: "I'm reading Ragamuffin Gospel and loving it! My beliefs totally align with the authors in what living in God's grace looks like to different people."

[Angie]

I’m reading Boundaries by Drs Henry Cloud and John Townsend - new updated version. This was recommended a couple months ago by a friend and now our church’s ladies bible study announced that we will go thru it next semester. Guess it means I better read it! 😉 I’m about 5 chapters in, and it’s definitely one to read slow in order to absorb it.

[Marja, Founder/Moderator]

Thanks for sharing that Angie. I read that book years ago and I noticed a revised edition came out. What a great idea to read it in a group and discuss it. So many people struggle with putting up healthy boundaries, saying yes or no when it matters etc.
Angie wrote: "I’m reading Boundaries by Drs Henry Cloud and John Townsend - new updated version. This was recommended a couple months ago by a friend and now our church’s ladies bible study announced that we wil..."

[Marja, Founder/Moderator]

Is anyone taking on the Goodreads Reading 2020 challenge?

[Susan, Moderator]

I'm getting toward the end of a devotional that is a compilation of short bits of other books. It's called A Life of Miracles. It's been a real encouragement to me.

[Robin]

To ALL of my "sisters" and "brothers" I've just posted my 30th book review for a nonfiction Christian book this year on Amazon which makes it over 83% of the total books, I've reviewed. I also always post all of my reviews on GoodReads and LibraryThing.

In addition, any nonfiction Christian book I read/review gets posted on the Christian blog I began almost a month ago, and it is there I would love for everyone to check my reviews and perhaps decide to become a blog follower, Here is the link to all of my reviews for nonfiction Christian books:

https://rlmorgan1951.blogspot.com/sea...

PSALM 118:24

[Susan, Moderator]

I'm reading When God Breaks In by Ben Hughes. It's full of amazing true stories. I'd never read anything by this author before, but I was intrigued by the cover and the title. It's a very inspiring read.

[David]

I'm currently reading "Going Deep", by Gordon MacDonald.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...

I like his writing and am inspired by his insights and depth. I wish I had read this book 5 years ago! It appeals to me too, because I like deep talk rather than small talk.

This is the first Christian book I have read that uses a fictional story to articulate insights and truths that could equally be communicated in a fully non-fiction book. I can see pros and cons to this approach, for both the reader and the writer, so I was wondering what people's thoughts and experience of this writing method are, from a writer's and / or reader's perspective.

Thanks

David

[Susan, Moderator]

David wrote: "I'm currently reading "Going Deep", by Gordon MacDonald.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1...

I like his writing and am inspired by his insights and depth. I wish I had read th..."

I'm more into nonfiction these days, but I can still appreciate the value of drawing parallels to truth through parables embedded with truth for those with ears to hear.

[David]

Susan wrote: "I'm more into nonfiction these days, but I can still appreciate the value of drawing parallels to truth through parables embedded with truth for those with ears to hear."

Thanks Susan, I agree with you.

As someone wanting to develop as a writer, I am intrigued by the dilemma here. For example the MacDonald book is much longer than it needs to be, because it is in the form of a story, as opposed to an exposition. On the other hand, perhaps what I read will be more memorable to me.

I've just found this very interesting article on this, "The link between memory and stories":
https://www.anecdote.com/2015/01/link...

[Bob]

"Book of Mysteries" by Jonathan Cahn
It is a wonderful 365 day devotional where each day gives a short, but very profound revelation regarding "the nature of God" from the Hebrew perspective. As a Christian, I have found it to book very eye-opening because learning the depth of meaning of Hebrew words and phrases have only deepened my love understanding of Christ....who He is...who He was...and who He will forever be!!

[Jane]

Marja wrote: "I read this book a few months ago. Wow, what a story, I couldn't stop reading it, a real page turner. Nicky Cruz still speaks all over the world!"

I read it decades ago and it's still vivid in my mind. How books do change us!

[Susan, Moderator]

Jeff wrote: "I'm reading Lead Me, Holy Spirit: Longing to Hear the Voice of God by Stormie Omartian and it has been good so far. She stresses the importance of following the leading of the Holy ..."

Sounds like a great book, Jeff. I've always been interested in that topic. I also got a lot out of Stormie's book, The Power of a Praying Wife.

[Casey]

I've been reading After Doubt: How to Question Your Faith Without Losing It by A.J. Swoboda and really enjoying it! Definitely a helpful guide to thinking through wrestling with your doubts in a way that makes your faith stronger rather than demolishing it.

[Wm.]

I've been reading Fear and Trembling by Soren Kierkegaard, which is about faith. Incredibly deep and much easier to read than I expected.

[Ann]

I’m currently reading, Teach us to Pray, by Corey Russell. His heart and passion for more of Jesus pours out all over this book, drawing from personal experiences of pain and loss. Great read!

[Sister Pam]

Entering the Passion of Jesus: A Beginner's Guide to Holy Week
I'm studying this book during Lent with a study group. Levine is a master teacher who introduces a fresh way of examining Jesus' Passion. Many in the group are unfamiliar with studying the New Testament in light of the Old Testament so eyes are opened and the discussion is lively.

[Susan, Moderator]

Sister Pam wrote: "Entering the Passion of Jesus: A Beginner's Guide to Holy Week
I'm studying this book during Lent with a study group. Levine is a master teacher who introduces a fresh way of examining Jesus' Passi..."

A very timely read. :)

[Marja, Founder/Moderator]

I am currently reading 'Defining Moments' by Bill Johnson. I love it! It contains the condensed life stories of known and unknown revival leaders, such as John Wesley, Charles Finney, Dwight L. Moody, Maria Woodworth-Etter, Carrie Judd Montgomery, Smith Wigglesworth, John G. Lake, Evan Roberts, Rees Howells, Aimee Semple McPherson, and Kathryn Kuhlman. Powerful and very inspiring.

[Susan, Moderator]

I just finished The Seer Dimension. It's fascinating.

[Jill]

Is this thread still open? I have found so many great books on it! I am currently re-reading A Woman after God's Own Heart by Elizabeth George. I read it about once a year and take something new away from it every time.
https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...

[Susan, Moderator]

I just finished reading our December book of the month, Partners in Christ: A Conservative Case for Egalitarianism by John G. Stackhouse. Because I've always taken a "whole Bible" approach on this (and other topics that have long been subject to debate), it was really important to me to understand how Scripture speaks to gender roles as a whole.

I'll mention in advance that while not dry, this is a very chunky, academic read. But if you've wondered about these things as long as I have, you may find it enlightening to better understand the vast amount of biblical scholarship on both sides of this question. If you do read it, we'll be interested in your gracious and respectful thoughts on the subject.

[Nancy]

Just read first two chapters of: The Essential Guide to Prayer by Dutch Sheets.
Like it so far .. enough biblical basis for this reader.
My small group meets once a month .. so we will take most of 2023 to finish.

[Karlesha sharne’]

Im reading delighting in the trinity!

[Karlesha sharne’]

Im readind delighting in the trinity!

[R.J.]

I’m reading ‘Gentle and Lowly’ by Dane C. Ortland. It talks how when Jesus described his heart, he said it was ‘gentle and lowly’. This book has opened my understanding of the nature of God’s love for me. For example it discusses how where sin abounds God’s grace abounds more. Because God is holy he understands the full horror of our sin in a way we don’t. But that very holiness draws him to us. Our sin draws his compassion. “It is not our loveliness that wins his love. It is our unloveliness”.

I’m only a third of the way through but I strongly recommend so far.

[Chiradeep]

I am almost on the verge of finishing Charlie T. Jones' "Life is Tremendous". It's a leadership book but can be considered as a Christian self-help book.