Win-Some Women
Committee’s Favorite Books – May, 2010

Crystal:

The Relationship Principles of Jesus by Tom Holladay 
This book is written by Rick Warren's (Purpose Driven Life) brother-in law.  It goes along with the small group study, 40 Days of Love, in the same format as the 40 Days of Purpose.  My small group and I loved this 40-day devotional book on relationship principles according to how Jesus taught them.  It was amazing how applicable each chapter was in my life.

Crazy Love by Francis Chan 
Our Sunday School class just started a study that goes along with this book.  Francis Chan is an amazing teacher who follows what the bible says and takes it to a level everyone can understand.  He really makes you think after you've read a chapter (and usually during it as well).  I haven't had a chance to check out his online videos that go along with the book, but have seen him in action in a few sermons and our study DVD.  If you don't buy the book, at least check out the video clips of his sermons.

Marleen:

God Calling by two listeners, Edited by A.J. Russell

This little daily devotional is based on two women, living in England, in the 1930’s, who remain anonymous, simply wanting to be known as "Two Listeners", who were given these words from the living Christ. Their daily writings, organized and edited by A.J. Russell, give hope, comfort, wisdom, challenge and most of all love to the reader. In the midst of poverty and disillusionment they were able to find comfort from words spoken in the depths of their hearts.  I too found a renewed spirit and wisdom as I listened with an open mind and heart. Christ does speak to us and leads us on our way to becoming “His reflections”! Calling us to meditation, love and/or action!!! Are we listening for His call?

This book was given to me many years ago, as a gift, from a very special friend. Since then, I myself have either given or recommended  “God Calling” to many! A little book to be treasured!!

Carolyn:

Adventures in Missing the Point by Tony Campolo and Brian McClaren

What a pleasure to read a book by two such deep thinkers.  This book asks more questions than it answers, leaving you with plenty to contemplate after you’ve read it. The authors urge us not to be so inflexible in our beliefs that we miss the point . . . of the teachings of Jesus, of the lessons in the Bible, of the opportunities here and now to practice loving as Jesus loved.  The authors don’t tell their readers what to think, they simply urge their readers to think.  About wide ranging topics like sin and doubt and theology and environmentalism and women in ministry.  Is salvation the finish line or the starting point?  

UnChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyon

24 million young Americans, age 16 to 29 are so turned off by what they have heard, seen, or personally experienced in churches or with individual “Christians” that they want nothing to do with Christianity.  Are those of us who consider ourselves Christians failing God by not reaching these people?  This is an extensively researched book that illustrates the trends occurring in our society.   I can hardly wait to finish it—the last chapter is entitled:  From UnChristian to Christian!  We can be the change we want to create! 

Lorraine: 

Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis

C. S. Lewis gives us a look at basic Christianity, from his outlook, with his wonderful imagination and unique ability and talent.  He gives us the basics of the Christian faith without the particulars of each denomination. 

Eva: 

Between Sundays by Karen Kingsbury

I truly enjoyed this book as the author developed her characters in such a real way.  It is so encouraging to see the way the Lord can transform lives and bring out godly traits in a person. 

Meg: 

A Million Miles in a Thousand Years byDonald Miller

Donald Miller is the author of the best selling Blue Like Jazz, which I just loved. When I’d heard that he’d written a new book, I honestly couldn’t wait to read it, and I was not disappointed. As Max Lucado states in reviewing this book, “I already want to re-read it!” This book is a result of Miller dealing with the event of having his Blue Like Jazz made into a movie.  He took the principles that he learned about composing a great screenplay, and then he applied those principles to living his life purposely for one year... and then wrote a book about the experience.  It’s heartwarming, full of humor, and great truths about the real Author of life. 

The NLT Bible Promise Book by Ron Beers & Amy E. Mason

I have used this little book as a teaching tool this year while teaching the Confirmation Class at my church. I’ve found it a great little reference book (a small concordance) regarding what the Bible says about the many Bible verses that deal with statements concerning matters that involve God’s promises to humankind. I’m not a big fan of the New Living Translation used in the book, but it makes the content very readable for all.Aside from being universally readable, it’s also a great bargain at $1.99. A wonderful little book to add to a card or to a larger gift for a graduate!