Words

Has someone ever said something to you that really meant a lot? It really impacted you? Maybe it wasn't in a good way. Maybe it made your day. Words have the tendency to create; create feelings, opinions, thoughts, motivation. Just a few words from someone could really change a lot. I like words. Words can create pictures, inspire ideas, and stir up passion.

Especially words from a book.

I like books.

My favorite type of books have come to be non fiction Christian books. There are plenty of repetitive, boring, dry Christian books. I've picked up a few, tried to keep reading because I don't like to stop something I have started, then realized I was wasting my time. Then there have been those books that cause me to think... think past my little box... think outside of who I am and what I have experienced. The words that spring from those pages are inspiring. They inspire me to be who I was made to be, do what I was called to do, and live how God wants me to live.

So what books are those? Well, these are just a few...

• Strengthen Yourself In the Lord - Bill Johnson. It has been a while since I read this one but I just like Bill Johnson. He has lots of books that I have heard are very good!
• Captivating - John and Stasi Eldredge. I encourage every girl, woman, mom, female, and even those guys who are interested enough about God's calling for a woman to read it. They forget the rules, the limitations, and the "this is how you have to do it" and share the freedom we have to just be. Be who God has created us to be. It is encouraging, motivating, inspiring, and the list of positive adjectives could keep going. I received so much from this book and actually plan to read it again very soon (and I normally don't read books twice).
• Crazy Love - Francis Chan. Eye-opening. Awakening. Thought-provoking. = This book described in just a few words. It opens your eyes to the crazy love God has for us and encourages you to not take it for granted but live your life for the One who gives you breath each and every day.
• The Purple Pig and Other Miracles - Dick Eastman. I'm sure there are a few of you thinking "What in the world? The purple pig?" Yes. The purple pig. This is actually the book I am in the middle of right now. For a teenager who longs to see God's Kingdom come to earth and His will be done in her life this book is perfect. I had a special friend recommend it and allow me to borrow it. Perfect timing. With everything God is doing in my life this book is so encouraging.
• I have a few other books that are on the list: Windows of the Soul - Ken Gire. One Thousand Gifts - Ann Voskamp. Listening Is an Act of Love - Dave Isay. Tuesdays with Morrie - Mitch Albom. Fresh Brewed Life - Nicole Johnson. Wild at Heart - John Eldredge. Other John Eldredge books. And C.S. Lewis. Yes, I have a long list. And yes, I have even more I could add!

I like words a lot. They have motivated me. These books have impacted me and God has used them to work in my life. I encourage you to read. Read the Bible (the best words) and read other Christian books. They are full of stories and inspiration.

If you have any recommendations for good books, please share! I always like to hear what other people are reading! Or if you have read any books on my list and have anything to add or say, I would love to hear that too :)

I'll be back to again to share about what I thought of my next few books!