I am really trying to read more this year. I was off to a good start (hello, New Year goals!) then slumped during a crazy February full of distractions, car accidents, and disruptions to my usual routines. I found myself listening to podcasts way more than audio books in the car, and sadly, often opted to scroll thorough social media instead of pick up a book when I had some free moments.
But in the last few weeks I’ve been carving out a few minutes here and there to read, and I see it paying off, not just in adding books to my ‘Books Read in 2017‘ Pinterest board, but in filling my heart and head with things that point me to Jesus. That is my goal…though it is encouraging to see my board grow longer. 😉
Here’s a list of the books I’ve been reading lately. Some I’ve finished, some not. Though none of them are ‘junk food’ books, some are easier to read and process, but as you’ll see from the second half of the list, some take more time to read and digest (I call those the slow reads). They need to be ruminated on, pondered and enjoyed slowly to let the transforming words seep into my soul.
‘Quick’ Reads
She Reads Truth by Raechel Myers and Amanda Williams
I liked this book. It was a great one to listen to on audio. I love when the author reads the book in the audio version, and this one was doubly fun because there were 2 authors, and they each read the chapters they wrote. I don’t think I would’ve stuck with it if I was reading it in print, but it is a great book to listen to while driving or doing other tasks. It is full of Raechel and Amanda’s life stories…and my word, has God done amazing works in the hard times of their lives. Scripture is also intertwined with their stories, and I found that to be a blessing as I ‘read’ it.
Grace not Perfection by Emily Ley
This truly was a quick read. The book is small and pretty. The cover not only is gorgeous, but it feels lovely too. I loved the look of the book, including the many photographs of Emily’s life and family. Nothing in the book was earth-shattering for me, but it is filled with great reminders to put the first things first, trust God even when it doesn’t make sense, and to give myself a whole lotta grace. For a recovering perfectionsist that’s read lots of similar books to this one, it was still a fun, very quick and easy read.
‘Slow Reads’
Only Love Today by Rachel Macy Stafford
I am loving the layout of this book. Instead of chapters, the writings are like short essays. They follow the 4 seasons of the year, but to be honest, I’ve only gotten a few readings in because they are so good, but for me, really need to be thought about and re-read over and over. I’m trying to get the Hands Free Mama (Rachel Macy Stafford)’s words deep, deep down into my heart and mind. I’ve even found myself writing key words on my wrist to try to see them and keep them in mind throughout my days.
This is a great read if you struggle with perfectionism.
I Am by Michelle Cushatt
I love Michelle Cushatt’s writing. I was on the launch team for her book “Undone“. It is a beautiful memoir of her life of battling cancer and family challenges.
So when I hear “I Am” was coming out, I was intrigued. It is written as a 60 day devotional focusing on all the things “I Am” because of my relationship with Jesus and God, the great I AM. The book is bathed in Scripture, and I find some of the truths in it take way more than one day to soak in. I’ve been reading and rereading each day’s essay.
If you struggle with believing lies about who you are or who God is, this is a must read!!!
So what have you been reading lately? I’d love to hear about it!
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