Spring arrives late in the Colorado Rockies but I recognize the early signs. Songbirds perch among the bare branches of weary-looking trees and the late snows are heavy with moisture.
I’m eager to see the brightness of the season in full-bloom. To behold its beauty.
In the same way, I’ve longed to know more of God this year. To learn about His goodness, character, and personality.
Several of the books I’ve been reading have enriched my understanding. Maybe they will pique your interest, as well.
The first is Jesus in Me: Experiencing the Holy Spirit as a Constant Companion by Anne Graham Lotz. With a wealth of Biblical knowledge and beautifully written words, Mrs. Lotz writes about the third person of the Trinity within the context of seven specific roles. These include Helper, Comforter, Advocate, Intercessor, Counsellor, Strengthener, and Standby.
Sharing personal stories of her family life, battle with cancer, and widowhood, Anne shares how she has learned to trust and rely upon the Holy Spirit and invites readers to do the same. Humble and authentic, Mrs. Lotz reaches through the pages of the book as if she is a friend sitting with the reader at the kitchen table in deep discussion about a growing area of faith in her life.
From the Bookshelf: March 2021 Click To Tweet
Favorite quote: “As I reflected on what it means to know God, I thought of those in the Bible who knew Him and I decided I wanted to Him as they did.”
I’m not quite finished reading Letters to the Church by Francis Chan, however, it has gripped me enough that I have re-read some of the earlier chapters.
Having planted and led a mega-church, Mr. Chan reveals his heart for pastors and the community while exploring what he considers problems in the church. While I don’t agree with everything the author writes, he seems to share with honest conviction and some takeaways include the following:
- believers must expect suffering
- unity within the church is paramount
- the focus on numbers within the church is misguided
- Christians are meant to be spirit-filled or filled with the love of Christ
Favorite quote: “I am telling the Lord I don’t want to just be kind. I want the kindness only the Holy Spirit can produce.”
From the Bookshelf: March 2021 Click To Tweet
With Easter around the corner, it’s the perfect time to pick up a copy of Jill Roman Lord’s new book, Dream Big, My Precious One. This book is a delightful rhyming read that encourages young children to explore and imagine all of the ways they might fulfill God’s plans for their lives. Both boys and girls are highlighted throughout the illustrations as children consider a variety of exciting grown-up “dreams” including those focused on arts, sciences, faith, and more.
From the Bookshelf: March 2021 Click To Tweet
Children will want to read Dream Big again and again while homeschool parents and early education teachers will find it the perfect addition to a unit about Community Helpers or Careers.
A prolific children’s author, Jill Roman Lord has written another beautiful book for children. You can find more of her books here.
I am looking for a few recommendations for April. I’d love to know what you have on your bookshelf!
Peace and grace,
Tammy
P. S. I often linkup with these other wonderful bloggers.
Mondays InstaEncouragements/ Mandy and Michele, Kingdom Bloggers,
Tuesdays RaRa Linkup /GraceFull Tuesday / Tell His Story/Anchored Abode,
Wednesdays Worth Beyond Rubies, Recharge Wednesday / Welcome Wednesday /LetsHave Coffee/
Thursdays Heart Encouragement / Tune In Thursday /Salt and Light / Five Minute Friday
Friday Faith on Fire, Blogger Voices Network, Grace and Truth Linkup