The previous post introduced our new series on reading for well-being. Today we’ll explore various facets of reading for spiritual growth. Since our holistic health stems from the soul, we stand to gain comprehensive benefits from reading this vital genre. Spirituality covers a broad range of topics. Wandering through bookstore aisles can prove overwhelming, and it may seem difficult to choose where to start. The following categories provide an outline for life-optimizing reads on spiritual growth:
- Foundation (Bible, basic theology, e.g.)
- Daily devotions
- Studies
- Specific Life Applications (parenting, life transitions, coping with grief or crises, e.g.)
- Identity
- Growth (discipleship, next steps, outreach, calling-related)
Begin with the foundation. Continue to review the primary book as you add other reading layers as you add them. Include at least one of the above categories in your daily reading and at least two in your weekly reading for optimal wellness. Go deeper as you grow. The right books have tremendous, life-changing potential. Though not a comprehensive list, I’ll offer you a place to start by citing links for the books mentioned in today’s video:
Foundational
- Bible – Available to read online at BibleGateway.com, or choose your favorite version at any retailer (my faves are NIV Study Bibles and the Archaeological Study Bible)
- Book of God by Walter Wangerin, Jr.
Daily Devotions
- My Utmost for His Highest by Oswald Chambers
- Jesus Calling by Sarah Young
- Soul Care by Edie Melson
- Ordinary Graces by Lucinda Secrest McDowell
- Online Devotions – CBN.com or Inkspirations Online for writers
Studies
- Experiencing God by Henry Blackaby
- Gideon by Priscilla Shirer
- Daniel by Beth Moore
- A Mary Like Me by Andy Lee
Specific Life Applications
- Boundaries by Henry Cloud and John Townsend
- The Power of a Praying Parent by Stormie Omartian
- Hope Prevails by Dr. Michelle Bengston
Identity
- Discover Your Spiritual Gifts the Network Way – Spiritual gifts assessment
- Emotionally Healthy Spirituality by Peter Scazzero
Growth
- The Dream Giver by Bruce Wilkinson
- Courageous Women of the Bible by Latan Roland Murphy
- The Circle Maker by Mark Batterson
- Spiritual Leadership by J. Oswald Sanders
- Renovation of the Heart by Dallas Willard
Expand your reading list in this vital area of wellness! Share your favorite spiritual growth books with us. Comment here for an opportunity to win a book.
Be Encouraged,
Tina