What I Read Last Year // 2020 pt. 2

I love books. Like SO much. I also love talking about books and what other people are reading. Like SO much.

Below are the books I finished in the second half of 2020. Fewer things in life would make me happier than you reading one of these and letting me know your thoughts. ;) Or telling me about good books you've read!

Cheers to a new year filled with hope that coffee shops will open again so we can read and drink spicy mochas in cozy nooks and play the "Guess What Date They're On" game (#iykyk). One can only dream.

(And if you want to see my book recommendations from the first half of the year, see my post here. ;) )

Biography/Memoir

What Is a Girl Worth?: My Story of Breaking the Silence and Exposing the Truth about Larry Nassar and USA Gymnastics by Rachael Denhollander

This has become one of my favorite books. Rachael Denhollander was the first to publicly accuse Larry Nassar of sexual abuse, and her story is incredibly well-written. She explains her background in gymnastics as well as her legal training. I was most encouraged by her Christian faith and her fight for justice that reflected the LORD's heart. Her story was difficult to read at times, but incredibly encouraging to see how the Lord really prepared her for years "for such a time as this."

I knew Larry Nassar through my teaching internship outside of Lansing the year before the public cases came out. He was incredibly friendly and well-loved. Some of this book was disturbing, but as it should. It provided an incredible perspective on the cases of abuse and why women often are not believed, including in the Church. Denhollander gave a talk through Veritas forum called "Can We Reconcile Justice and Forgiveness?" I found really helpful too. There she more specifically focused on the Biblical approach to justice and forgiveness than this book was emphasizing, due to different purposes and audiences.

If you're interested in learning more, I would also recommend NPR's podcast "Believed." I'm not a huge podcast person, but I binged this series in a day after a friend recommended it to me. The series is incredibly engaging and well-done, telling the story both of how the women were not believed for years and how so many people believed Nassar for so long.

May we do better in cases of abuse, especially as the Church. Read this book.

Devotionals

Streams in the Desert by L.B. Cowman

I found an old copy of this book in the Used book section of Denver Seminary when I was visiting friends a few years ago. Inside the cover, there is a handwritten note, as all the best used books have, in a form of cursive we haven't seen for decades. It reads: "To Dave + Beth, May this little book be a blessing along this pilgrim journey until we see Him face to face. Love in Him, George + Barb."

I love that. While I haven't read this cover-to-cover, this devotional is timeless for a reason. It has been a huge encouragement and go-to for me the last few years, but 2020 especially. There is a devotional for every date of the year, which includes a short Bible verse and compilations of sermon quotes & Christian poetry along similar themes for that day. The January 1st devotional is one of my absolute favorites. I know there are updated versions available, but if you can somehow find the earlier versions, get it. It adds to the beauty of it. ;)

Every Moment Holy (Volume 1) by Douglas Kaine McKelvey

Again, I haven't read this cover-to-cover either, but it's been a great resource for prayer. It's written as more "liturgical" prayers. Although prayer 100% does not need to be formal or "scripted," I found these prayers to be really helpful starting points to center my mind and emotions at the beginning of more concentrated times in prayer. Plus, there are fun, v specific topics. :) A few of my favorites are "For the Ritual of Morning Coffee," "For Students and Scholars," "For Dating or Courtship," and "A Liturgy before Beginning a Book." :)

There is a second volume coming out in February 2021 called "Death, Grief, and Hope" available for preorder if you like this one. Also, a similar book that may be more familiar is the Puritan prayer book The Valley of Vision. That one is a go-to resource as well. :)

Wilderness Wanderings: Finding Contentment in the Desert Times of Life by Stacy Reaoch

Stacy Reaoch has written a lot of articles on Desiring God's website I've found really helpful, plus I love the exodus narrative, so I wanted to read this one. It's a collection of 25 short devotionals starting in Exodus and closing in Deuteronomy, focusing on the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and preparation to enter the Promised land. Each devotional focuses on a specific Scripture passage and closes with a short written prayer and a few reflection questions.

Overall, it was a little fluffy and repetitive. It was a good resource to help guide my own study for a month though, so still worth checking out!

Books from Seminary Classes Worth Reading ;)

Jesus Wept: The Significance of Jesus' Laments in the New Testament by Rebekah Eklund

  Despite Jesus Wept being Eklund's dissertation in book form, it's actually SO GOOD and fairly devotional for more of an "academic" read, which was really refreshing. Over the past couple years, I have increasingly seen the need for lament both in my own life and in the life of the Church, yet it's not discussed as often. When it is, lament is primarily focused on the lament psalms (which are great!). However, Eklund argues that lament is also seen throughout the New Testament, emphasizing its relevance for believers today (it's not just an "old testament/covenant" thing!).

This book is ridiculously expensive on Amazon, though, so find it at a library or borrow it from me. haha A slightly more accessible book on lament is Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy: Discovering the Grace of Lament by Mark Vroegop. True confessions: I've only read a few chapters of it (I keep getting distracted), but it is very good! I've heard him speak on the overall synopsis of the book, so if you have an hour and want to listen to this book in a nutshell to see if you want to read more, listen here. (I have actually listened to that. ;) Several times.)

Lament is the language we need for prayer in suffering. Learn it.

Peoples of the New Testament World: An Illustrated Guide by William A. Simmons

This is more of a reference book than a "read cover-to-cover with a cup of coffee" type book. ;) Regardless, I would recommend it! If you are interested in the historical perspective of Bible study and want to learn more about specific people groups mentioned in the New Testament -- read this! There are 18 chapters each focusing on a different people group, such as the Pharisees, the Zealots, the Tax Collectors, the Samaritans, and the Centurions. The writing style is not too "heady."

Plus, there are lots of pictures. ;)

Stewarding Your Time/Habits

The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer

I really needed this book this year. A few months ago I was in a season of incredible burnout. I was not doing well, struggling, but still trying to press forward and was just not in a healthy place. This book was helpful to read to begin thinking through what to prioritize on my plate and how to steward time well. Honestly, I'm still growing in this, but I needed a total reset. The book is helpful in clearing out the "loud" and resetting in order to truly hear the voice of the Spirit leading us. Even the typography of this book allows room to breathe. My prayer this year is to allow margin in my life in order to spend intimate time with the LORD, focused and quiet enough to hear from Him. I recommend this book to anyone who is burnt out or struggling with overwhelming busyness.

Another book I read several years ago but will probably re-read soon is Crazy Busy: A (Mercifully) Short Book about a (Really) Big Problem by Kevin DeYoung.

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear

I typically don't read books that seem "self-help-y" like this, but I loved this one. It is incredibly practical and helpful in shifting your mindset on habits. James Clear segments his book by his "4 Laws of Behavior Change": 1) Make It Obvious, 2) Make It Attractive, 3) Make It Easy, 4) Make It Satisfying. I implemented some of his tips in establishing habits I've been trying --and failing -- to establish in my life, and they actually stuck! Highly recommend this book. Quick, easy, practical read.

The Lazy Genius Way: Embrace What Matters, Ditch What Doesn't, and Get Stuff Done by Kendra Adachi

This book came out soon after I finished Atomic Habits, so I wanted to check it out since I was on a habits kick. ;) Plus, the cover is adorable so...

Kendra Adachi devotes each chapters to a different "Lazy Genius Principle." Some are more practical than others, and slightly more of a "mindset" focus, BUT this was still good. I especially loved chapter 2 on deciding once and having a "decision matrix"; chapter 6 on routines as "on-ramps" and not meant to make us feel like we're stuck in "Groundhog Day" (helpful for me who prefers spontaneity but desperately needs routines -- who knew!); and chapter 10 on batching tasks, which included a lot of super helpful examples.

Kendra Adachi also has a fun podcast called "The Lazy Genius" I'd recommend. :)

The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction by Justin Whitmel Earley

I read this book at the close of 2020, and it was helpful to prepare my heart and mind for establishing new habits in this new year. Earley approaches the idea of habits from his own experience of dangerous burnout in work and ministry. His advice is practical and Biblical. He breaks his book into four daily habits (Kneeling Prayer at Morning, Midday, and Bedtime; One Meal with Others; One Hour with Phone Off; Scripture Before Phone) and four weekly habits (One Hour of Conversation with a Friend; Curate Media to Four Hours; Fast from Something for Twenty-Four Hours; Sabbath).

This isn't a book that adds more on your plate, makes you feel guilty about how you're spending your time now, or creates a culture of legalism in the Christian life. Instead, Earley is realistic on "failure and beauty" (the epilogue of his book) and practical in both the reasons and the how-to in establishing healthier rhythms in the Christian life. Loved this book. Plus, the appendices are super helpful for group discussion or specific life-stages.

The Kitchen Sink (aka Books I Don't Have a Category For ;) )

Women of the Word: How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds by Jen Wilkin

I re-read this book last year with the "Lead Team" for Bible study as we go through how to lead women in Bible study well. First of all, I love anything Jen Wilkin writes or says, so I'm slightly biased. ;) BUT this book is a great breakdown of how to study the Bible for what it said to the original audience and what it means for us today. It's great for anyone studying the Bible for the first time and wanting to know how, or for those who want a guide in discipling women how to study the Word. I've bought many copies for others. I also love the last chapter, "Help for Teachers." The latest edition of this book has helpful questions at the end of each chapter for group discussion!

The Emotionally Destructive Relationship: Seeing It, Stopping It, Surviving It by Leslie Vernick

This is a fun one to read in public. ;) But really, this book is extremely helpful and practical, and also Biblically sound. I appreciated her distinctions between "destructive" and "difficult," as the label "toxic" is often overused in today's language and society, diminishing the reality of situations that are actually abusive. Vernick overall approaches the topic Biblically, upholding marriage but also emphasizing God's heart for justice, peace, and Christlike love. If you or someone you counsel is (or is questioning whether or not they are) in an "emotionally destructive relationship," I highly recommend this book

Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership: Seeking God in the Crucible of Ministry by Ruth Haley Barton

I read this book with a group, and it was OK. The author goes through the story of Moses to discuss leadership, though she takes a lot of liberty in interpreting Moses' story. There are some helpful takeaways, such as the spiritual rhythms in chapter 8 and the convicting reminder that a leader needs others. Self-sufficiency only leads to downfall.

Restless: Because You Were Made for More by Jennie Allen

I love Jennie Allen. Corny, but I feel like when I read her books I'm sitting with a friend/mentor over a cup of coffee. Her writing style is Biblically sound and totally accessible and engaging. This is one of her older books that actually is somewhat of a "continuation" of her book Anything: The Prayer that Unlocked My God and My Soul (a fantastic & convicting book I read in a very timely season in 2019). She uses the story of Joseph in Genesis to show how the LORD uses the "threads" of gifts, suffering, places, people, and passions to create the tapestry of our mission & calling on this side of eternity. There are helpful questions after most chapters too for extra reflection. This was a quick read!

Currently Reading

• Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman

  • It's been so long since I've read fiction just for fun, and even though I'm only 1/3 of the way through, oh my gosh, I LOVE THIS ONE. The story is written from the perspective of a quirky, "nearly thirty years old" single woman named Eleanor Oliphant. She is, of course, "complete fine" with her life, but when she suddenly develops a far-away crush on a local singer she sees on stage one night, she begins making changes to get him to notice her. The IT guy apparently comes into the mix, and I just can't wait for more relatably awkward and quirky and cute character development. ;) It's adorable. I love it. Stay tuned.

• Faithful Women & Their Extraordinary God by Noel Piper

  • I picked up this book because I needed reminders of the LORD's faithfulness and trustworthiness. I haven't typically read biographies or memoirs, but have seen how refreshing they are to my own walk with the LORD. It's much easier to see God's hand in the seemingly mundane of someone else's life and story than my own, but the God of these women is my God, who does not change like shifting shadows (James 1:17). This book is short -- only 5 chapters -- and each chapter tells the story of a lesser-known woman who simply served the Lord imperfectly yet faithfully in her sphere, but had incredible kingdom impact we can now see with our hindsight. After I finish this book, I'm going to read 12 Faithful Women: Portraits of Steadfast Endurance edited by Melissa Kruger & Kristen Wetherell, a similarly-written book. My prayer this year is that I would be "stable and steadfast" (Colossians 1:23). Stories of women like these give me fresh wind & encouragement to pursue such a life.

• Secure in the Everlasting Arms by Elisabeth Elliot

  • I consider Elisabeth Elliot one of my mentors ;) , so I read and listen to whatever she has put out for others. This book is similar to many of her other books, a collection of short essays (1-2 pages each) on similar topics of trusting God, faithfulness in suffering, finding contentment in what God gives us, and "doing the next thing." She inspires me in singleness, waiting, and life mission. I can't wait to meet her in heaven someday.

• Redemption: Freed by Jesus from the Idols We Worship and the Wounds We Carry by Mike Wilkerson

  • I read this several years ago and it's just as helpful the second time around. The author uses the exodus narrative (MY FAVORITE) to work through issues pertaining to our own hearts and breaking lies that may be holding us in bondage. This book is hard to find in print now, so check Thriftbooks. ;)

• Confronting Christianity: 12 Hard Questions for the World's Largest Religion by Rebecca McLaughlin

  • I was reading this with a friend and I'm super behind (sorry Dee! haha), BUT I've found it a really helpful resource for those who are asking questions of the Christian faith. Apologetics is not my strength, but this book is an accessible start!

Pro tip: I read several books at once (as you can see haha), which helps me to read more and more quickly! I can read what I feel like reading when I feel like reading it, which is way more motivating to me. ;) I've also been reading fiction at night, which is a great way to end the day -- way better than scrolling mindlessly through my phone. Hopefully, that'll become a habit for me this year.