I read over 100 books in 2018, and I’m happy to share my picks of the best Christian books with you! I’m also including my top 10 blog posts for the year.
Best Christian Novel
I am a huge fan of Francine Rivers, and this is my favorite novel of hers by far. I was in the loveliest book fog for weeks afterward, and I still reflect on life lessons from Roman and Grace, many months later. My full review of The Masterpiece is included in one of my top posts for 2018.
Most Eye-Opening Book
As a Missourian, I was disturbed by the riots in August 2014 following Michael Brown’s death in the St. Louis area, not all that far from where I live. But I only saw the events from a narrow viewpoint. Through this powerful yet humble memoir, my perspective on the race problems in my state and the nation permanently changed. I was deeply moved by 13 Days in Ferguson.
Most Inspirational Book
Filled with amazing true stories, this book will inspire you to be a better human being. You will laugh out loud and probably shed a few tears as you enjoy this roller-coaster of entertaining yet heart-changing chapters. Read my popular post on Everybody Always, which includes a video.
Funniest Read
You are in for a treat if you read Kayla Aimee’s funny book. She is a gifted storyteller who will make you laugh while teaching you spiritual truths. I hope you enjoy the full review of In Bloom.
Best Book for Shame Sufferers
My friend Denise Pass shook me to the core with her first book. I didn’t realize the death grip that shame had on me until I read her self-effacing book that is firmly grounded in scripture. For the many women trapped in shame, Shame Off You will be a healing balm for your soul.
Best Book for Recovering Perfectionists
If you identify more with busy Martha than contemplative Mary in the Bible, this book is made for you. My friend Katie M. Reid wrote a thoughtful, practical book on how to embrace your Martha side while letting go of perfectionism. If you have a Martha side like I do, you’ll appreciate the complete review of Made Like Martha.
Best Book for Healing
This book slayed me in the best possible way. I’m healing from some major and minor disappointments, and I can think of no better Christian writer to lead me through the valleys. This is my favorite book by Lysa TerKeurst. Learn more about It’s Not Supposed to Be This Way.
Best Book for Defeating Fear
I have been held captive by fear for my whole life, and this book finally helped me break free. My friend Maria Furlough faced fear in a terrible tragedy and poignantly shares her story. She writes with courage and strength, and her explanation of Scripture will give you new perspective and hope. Read the full review of Breaking the Fear Cycle.
Best Book for Spiritual Growth
My dear friend Lauren Gaskill made her publishing debut with this lovely book. Her faith in the midst of severe health trials and emotional upheaval will encourage you to dive into the deep end of faith in the new year. Head over to read the full review of Into the Deep.
Best Bible Study
This fall, I led my small group through a study of this wonderful book on the Holy Spirit. We all learned new truths that inspired deeper faith, and we enjoyed my friend Suzie’s personal stories of struggles and victories. The Spirit-Led Heart makes a great study for one-on-one time with the Lord or with a group of fellow believers.
Best Memoir
I got to know Kate as the host of Five Minute Friday, and I was so excited to serve on the launch team for her first book. Memoir is one of my favorite reading genres, and Kate’s personal story is unique and graciously told. You’ll enjoy her gentle voice and her cross-continent tales of spiritual growth in A Place to Land.
Finest Writing
Jamie Sumner is a talented writer who has been through the grinder of Job-like proportions. Part memoir, part non-fiction encouragement, Unbound is laced with powerful, creative sentences that inspire awe at her creativity. You’ll both laugh and cry with this book, so have your box of tissues at the ready.
Best Book for Contemplatives
This lovely book is a perfect read for the doldrums of winter, when the blahs of faith may hang over you like low grey clouds. I enjoyed the rich, beautiful metaphors that had me searching for glimpses of God’s glory all around me. Searching for Spring will give you new eyes for God’s goodness in daily life.
Best Book for Self Care
This is a book I plan to read again, each time I need to take a break from my busy life. It teaches you the need for slowing down and practicing soul care without having to seclude yourself in a faraway mountain cabin. Invitation to Retreat is a much-needed prescription for our busy souls.
Best Book to Stretch Your Faith
This book changed my life, because it taught me something brand new about personal ministry I had never considered. I know about prophecy through reading the Bible, but did not learn much about this spiritual gift in my denomination.
God blessed me with new knowledge in this book that inspired hope and joy instead of fear in approaching people with prophetic encouragement. Such a practical, down-to-earth book that I read straight through. I’m excited to begin a new chapter of personal ministry after reading The Gift of Prophetic Encouragement.
Want even more recommendations? Check out my Book Reviews page for dozens more great reads from 2018.
Top Posts of 2018
Here’s the list of my most popular posts from 2018. Please let me know in the comments below which post resonates most with you.
How to Guard Your Heart in a Difficult Marriage
How to Meet God in the Night Hours
How to Stand Firm During Spiritual Attacks
How to Set Boundaries on Others’ Bad Behavior
How to Handle Anger in 3 God-Pleasing Ways
How to Set Loving Boundaries in a Difficult Marriage
How to Engage in Spiritual Warfare
How to Adjust Your Expectations in a Difficult Marriage
How to Stand Strong on God’s Word in Marriage Trials
You may also enjoy my recent post, 5 Easy Ways to Reflect on 2018.
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