Good morning, friends! I hope all of you are having a fabulous start to this Saturday morning! It’s been awhile since I’ve written a book post, so today I thought I’d share some of those that have truly encouraged my heart and inspired me in my journey so far this year!
31 Days of Prayer for the Dreamer and Doer
I very much consider myself a “dreamer” and “doer,” therefore I absolutely love, love, LOVE this treasure of prayers, scriptures, and devotions! I started this about a month into the new year, and each day’s reading resonated with me and where I’m at in my life on so many levels, with passages on things like freedom, rest and balance, wellness, simplicity, dreams, confidence, goals, creativity, online influence, and so many more. I underlined, wrote out notes, and prayed over those things that God spoke to me through each page; engaging with God like this every morning over those 31 days has set the tone for how I spend my time with Him now. If you’re looking for the perfect thing to set the course for your day and awaken you to living more boldly and passionately for Him, this is it!
I’ll be honest, it was the title of this book that got me. “I Want God” … “revival” … the very things I say and pray for on a fairly regular basis. Yet, this book challenged me. It’s not a very long book, and yet out of all the books I’ve listed today, this one took me the longest to get through. And that’s because it’s convicting. It made me think about all the times I say I want God and then how I actually live out my day-to-day life, not inviting God into all of the stuff going on, the good, the hard, the beautiful and messy. But it’s powerful what happens when we allow Him to challenge our thinking and take the time for self-reflection. The message of this book is life-changing if you allow it to penetrate your inmost places. It reignited a spark in my heart for going after the things that are most important to God and to living a life that has true Kingdom impact. If you want a book that pushes you a little harder and gets you out of your comfort zone, this is the one!
This gem of a book was written by fellow Influence Network member, Sarah F. Martin. After meeting Sarah at the Influence Conference last September and hearing about her book, I knew I had to add it to my list of “books to read in 2015.” I love Sarah’s heart for Jesus and her passion for women to make Him #1 in their lives. The chapter entitled “Our Dreams, Purpose, and God’s Agenda” really encouraged me as I intentionally seek Him for what He’s wanting to do in and through me, and as I put the skills, talents, and education He’s blessed me with to use each day. It was also a good reminder to me that everything I have is from Him and all that I do is for Him. This is such an important truth to keep in the forefront of my mind as I navigate this thing called ‘life.’ Bravo, Sarah!
This. Book. AWESOME. I strongly recommend this read to any woman wanting to let go of the “perfection trap” and go after a life of meaning and purpose. So much of what Lara shared from her own life, as well as the truth and wisdom from God’s Word, made a significant impact on me as I am making a concerted effort in 2015 to live a life that matters. This book has inspired me to live life more transparently and openly, giving and sharing more of myself to those in my sphere of influence. If you’re a goal-setter like me, this book is a great companion to assist you in your journey of making those things burning deep in your soul happen!
I heard about this amazing book from some of the writers I follow on social media, and after listening to Jessica N. Turner’s episode on The Influence Podcast while at the gym one morning, I decided this too was a “must-read” for 2015. I think any woman who has ever felt overwhelmed, burned out, or too busy and tired to make time for themselves needs to hear this book’s message: It’s okay to make time for YOU. The Fringe Hours is about self-care, essentially carving out space and time to do those things that are life-giving and soul-filling to you, resulting in living in freedom and grace, and with passion and purpose, and therefore becoming a better woman in all areas of life. If you’re a person struggling with balance and feel like you’re lacking in self- and soul-care, this book is for you!
What books have you read and what are you focusing on and learning this year?
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