Bookstack: Faith-Growing Reads for Summer
Summer is a time when we often think of beach reads and lighthearted reading. But it can also be a time to be extra intentional about spiritual growth. And I mean that not in a rules-oriented way. Not designating a specific time or place or checking off boxes. Although, you do you on that if you like routines.
I’m talking about having a specific focus that includes seeking resources that help you process, ask questions, dig a little deeper, or discover that growth can happen in many ways. Today, I’m sharing three books that are new releases for you to consider in your summer reading.1
Ordinary Days & Extraordinary Prayers is a book of practical and conversational prayers that are ready-made for just the thing you need.
Sometimes it’s hard to put words to our prayers. When other writers provide a guide, it can be a peaceful place to begin conversations with God.
In this collective from Kathy Carlton Willis and WordGirls, the writers cover many topics, providing a starting place or even a regular routine of talking with God about whatever is going on.
From moments of grief, to celebration, to everyday life, the prayers and liturgies are meaningful and inspiring.
If you’ve experienced any kind of event that has shaken you and taken you on a route you didn’t expect, Merge: The Road After Trauma Meets Faith is for you.
Forty days of meditations for the person who is so overwhelmed by a traumatic event that reading a book is the last thing you want to do. . . Until this one.
Jane Rubietta has been there. She walks alongside with a gentle approach; no platitudes or pulling yourself up by your bootstraps. This is for when there is no roadmap. The most tender and kind encouragement to take small steps without any pressure.
Lastly, the third Bible study book in my REMADE series is here!
Restored contains some of the Bible stories you may have grown up with: Zacchaeus, Peter, Rachel and Leah, Esther, David and Bathsheba, and more.
Each lesson invites you to take a second look at something you may have studied before—or maybe for the first time—and ask questions about long-told historical legends (often with extrabiblical details added) to look at what Scripture really says.
There is a main lesson each week plus some micro studies to do in between. It’s a Bible study and daily devotional in one!
I like to write Bible studies that are discussion-based or thought-provoking but without the expectations that a leader needs to have a Bible degree. Everyone explores together.
Note: I do have a way for groups to order multiple copies at a discounted rate here. (The bulk link for Restored will be on there soon. Plus, it’s coming to other online retailers soon.)
So, whether you want to start with prayers, expand to meditations with a gentle walk through the trauma journey, or go further with an in-depth Bible study, each of these resources has something to offer.
As writers, Kathy, Jane, and I all bring varying Bible and ministry degrees to our work. We also shared a “seasoned” outlook that comes from having walked through challenges and learning how to trust God when faith feels shattered. We’re also real-life examples of how even in midlife and beyond, spiritual maturity does not mean having it all together. We’re still learning as we go.
Happy summer to you!
Some links are affiliate, meaning I receive a small compensation if you purchase via my link (at no extra cost to you).