5 Books That Wrecked Me This Year
I’m putting the pieces of our household back together after last weekend’s conference, and it’s been a little slow going. As a family, we had four suitcases packed. As a family, we now have four suitcases in various stages of unpackedness. I’m getting to it. And yes, my pants are on fire.
Turns out, I don’t have all the answers. In fact, I kind of only have one Answer. But it’s a big one. And there are at least five books that I read this year that helped lead me there.
When I talk to friends about marriage, about parenting, about life, these are the books I now point to.
Because what I found in their pages, totally wrecked me.
1. One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are, by Ann Voskamp:
This book.
I know I keep talking about this book, but I couldn’t make this list without putting this beautiful book right at the very tippy top. My friend Deb gifted me a copy last year, but I sat it aside in all my busyness and didn’t read it until the beginning of this year. I’m so very glad I did.
It changed my life–the way I talk, the way I write, the way I think, the way I love. I went from complaining and griping and just being plain contemptuous about some of the most precious things to me (my kids, my husband, my “job”—the things in my life that I, at one time or another, wanted the most), to trying fully appreciating every moment of my present life. I’m not perfect, but I am at least making the effort every day to find that gratitude, even in the hard times.
I wish I could buy you all a copy and watch your heart open to the thousand—no, infinite!—gifts we’ve each been given.
My amusement with my bitter snarkiness? Wrecked.
2. The Hole In the Gospel: What Does God Expect of Us? The Answer That Changed My Life and Just Might Change the World, by Richard Stearns:
Richard Stearns was the CEO of a Fortune 500 company, successful in they eyes of the world—a big salary, nice cars, big house—living the American dream. He was approached by World Vision, a ministry working against poverty, hunger and injustice around the world, and asked to leave his comfortable life and become their president. His response led him from his corner office to the poorest areas of the world. He answered God’s call on his life, working not for himself, but to fill that hole in the gospel.
This book helped me see that being a disciple isn’t just about studying scripture or going to church. It’s about bringing God’s kingdom to those here who are suffering. And though the little things I do never seem like enough, that’s not an excuse. We shouldn’t do nothing because we can’t do everything.
Do something. Anything. The next thing.
Being okay with complacency? Totally wrecked.
t
3. 7: An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess, by Jen Hatmaker:
I devoured every last bit of this book on the plane last weekend. When we landed, I started going through my suitcase looking for things I could return to the store I bought them at.
Convicting. That’s the only word I can use to describe this book. I kind of want Jen Hatmaker to be my best friend. She is hilarious, she is real and I’m pretty sure she enjoys bad reality TV as much as I do. But she also wants to be a devoted follower of Christ, and had a lot of “stuff” getting in the way. Namely, food, clothing, possessions, shopping, waste, media and stress. She performed seven month-long fasts in each of these areas in an attempt to make room in her life. She discovered along the way how empty a life so full can be.
The idea of do more, buy more, be more? Wrecked that.
4. Created to Be His Help Meet: Discovering How God Can Make Your Marriage Glorious, by Debi Pearl:
A fair warning–this book isn’t the Gospel. I don’t agree with everything in it, and it definitely needs to be read with discernment. But if you can look past that, you might find something empowering in the pages—like the concept that you can’t control others (in this case, your husband), but you can focus on yourself–your own heart, your own joy, your own thoughts and behavior. The takeaway for me being that my husband and my marriage are not responsible for my happiness. If they are, it’s time I adjust my expectations.
I need you to do xyz to complete me? Slammed with a wrecking ball.
5. She Reads Truth, by Kacia Hosmer, Rachael Myers and Jessi Connolly:
Okay, you got me. This isn’t a book. But this online group study has just finished it’s seventh study, Ephesians, and starts on Philippians on Monday, October 22nd (you can find out how to join, totally free, here). While my Bible study used to be a bit unorganized and totally self-contained, now it truly is something I look forward to sharing with friends each morning—friends online, but also friends in real life. The plans have changed the way I study, share and talk about Scripture. It’s not just like brushing my teeth anymore.
Aimless Bible browsing? It took a one-way ticket to Wrecksville, USA.
Honorable Mention:
The Unicorn Book, by Gigi and Lulu
It’s subtle, but I think it’s about unicorns.
Here’s hoping there’s a sequel.
What books have impacted you lately?
I’d love to hear.
This has been a wrecking sort of year for me too. What a coincidence!
The Hole in Our Gospel and 7 were both life-changing and wonderful.
I remembered the name of that book I was telling you about. It’s “In the Name of Jesus” by Henri Nouwen. So good. Okay, back to the land of no internet. I’m glad I got to check at just the right time to read this! I loved it.
Thanks, sister. Set aside the Nouwen book for me. And I’ll trade you back. See you soon!
Thank you for this list! I knew there were some that you mentioned earlier but I couldn’t remember! Most definitely will pick up One Thousand Gifts and 7. I also want to get back on track with She Reads Truth… I started one a few months ago but life got in the way, *sigh*. Can’t wait to get connected with you ladies again!
I haven’t read any real thought-provoking books, I just got back from vacation so I’ve been reading more light stuff. I am loving Ann Patchett books right now, I read ‘State of Wonder’ and ‘Run’ and I also read a crazy intense spy book, ‘The Tourist’ by Olen Steinhauer… I know, kind of weird and a bit manly (haha!) but it was so good!
I go through phases of not interested in reading and wanting to read everything in sight… I’ve been ravenous lately! It’s been such a great way to de-stress from a long day. I still like tv once in a while, but bring on the books!
Tomorrow is a great day to start! See you then! And thanks for the book suggestions…I usually have a few different genres going at once.
Managing god’s money by randy alcorn. I’m only 35 pages in, but whoa.
Fantastic! Thanks, Marissa. See you Sunday.
Lately I have loved Julia Child’s My Life in France, and Edith Shaeffer’s The Tapestry. The first was just fun. The second was a life changer. Being wholly sold out for God. Loving your kids, loving and serving your husband. She was a great example. I was thrilled to read her book.
Oooh, thank you . I’ll be tracking down The Tapestry soon. And I just clicked through to read your post. I don’t have to tell you it made me smile. Or that I’m geeked up because I get to make my grocery list tonight. So much fun.
Blog has really changed lately. Miss all the recipes with just minor side notes of religion.
DW, I understand that not everyone is going to come with me. There are still lots of recipes on the recipe page and I’ll continue to add to it, so there’s always that!
The more vast an area, the longer it takes to reach the cracks. Keep on, sister!
I personally love the blog even more now!!!
Thank you. Truly.
Agreed
) If God is in you, He’s going to come out!
True, true, awesomely true.
Just bought One Thousand Gifts and am so excited to start it!! Friend, I’m so very thankful for you. Honest. I’ve had a pretty tough year and have felt alone and pretty hollow. While I’ll admit I haven’t yet finished a whole She Reads Truth study, it’s filled me up and given me hope. Thank you for leading me there. You rock my world, girl. Every day. Bless your sweet, sweet heart.
I’m sorry this has been a rough season for you. I hope One Thousand Gifts speaks to you like it did to me. I think you’ll find a heavy dose of hope in there and an appreciation for even the tricky times. When you can find the gratitude in those moments, you find a peace and appreciation that nothing is too much. You aren’t alone, hon. Promise.
Every single one of these sounds amazing. Thank you so much for sharing your heart with us.
My pleasure.
Thank you- writing these down!
I love One Thousand Gifts as well!!
I read Radical by David Platt a year and a half ago with my connect group… and I still think about it and am challenged by it! Definitely a must-read if you’re ready to be convicted and moved further from your comfort zone
Bring it! I’ll check it out…thanks, Bekah.
I was shopping for a book for a gift and walked past a table with “One Thousand Gifts” featured on it. I grabbed it immediately without hesitation, not quite remembering who had mentioned it or what it was about, but somehow feeling like I needed to read it. I’m not quite half way through but can already feel the impact of this idea of being thankful. It is exactly what I need at this point in my life. Looking forward to checking out your other suggestions!
I’m so glad you walked past that table. And I’m so glad my friend Deb did too and snatched up a copy for me. I’ve given it to three friends and they all talk of how it has blessed them. We are so fortunate to have stumbled upon it or to at least have our eyes open when it was placed there for us. Have a great weekend, Tori.
everything by henri nouwen keeps me in check, anything by him is worth reading and re-reading over and over and over again…1) they keep me intentionally creating space in my life for quiet time, 2) they remind me of the importance of being honest with myself so that i can be transparent with others and 3) they help me hold on to nothing material, prioritizing people and feelings and relationship over things…right now i am re-reading The Dance of Life: Weaving Sorrows and Blessings Into One Joyful Step…it is inspiring me to chronicle all the painful times in my life and look back NOW in absolute celebration. I am able to see how they were for my refinement, I could never give them back, they have formed the person i am today, a person I REALLY LIKE and who I believe makes God smile each day!
My girlfriend and I were just talking about his books last night! Her husband has ben trying to get her to read them for awhile, she caved and now she is hooked (and trying to hook me). Thank you for the wonderful recommendations. The Dance of Life sounds fantastic. I have that same understanding and appreciation for even the very hardest seasons of my life now. And I know you make God smile…you are making me smile right now
I’m about to finish up my so called life as proverbs 31 wife and I think the message is clear early on and not as deep of a message as I was hoping – so your list is definitely helpful in my next read
. Thank you.
I will tuck your little note away for future reference for myself as well.!
I really loved Sacred Ground:Pluralism, Prejudice and the Promise of America by Eboo Patel. A beautiful book with lots of information and personal stories about raising religious children in a diverse world. Lots of information about living with and loving our neighbors, and how their diverse faiths can strengthen our own. Also connects faith to service (which I see as a common theme in your blog… and a favorite topic of mine)
That sounds wonderful, Anne. I think this would be a great read for our family as we interact with all sorts of people in our school, our work and our everyday life. I want my girls to overflow with tolerance and acceptance, and to live out their faith in the way they help others. I’m definitely checking it out, thank you!
Oh you will love it! Especially the part where he talks about raising his child. His experience has been that when children and youth are taught to appreciate other faiths and other cultures they end up also learning about and appreciating their own faith even more. (works for adults too!)
I loved “One Thousand Gifts” and it sounds like I need to read the rest of these too! I absolutely lovelovelove your blog lately. I always leave your page feeling a bit brighter and a bit more filled with the Spirit!
What a compliment. Thanks, Megan.
I also wanted to tell you that i agree with a previous commenter
I loved coming here for recipes and sometimes miss those, but I think I’m glad I got to “know” you first with your witty stories and yummy recipes – and when you started to share your faith more I think it made me more receptive.
I just want to thank you. I really appreciate your writing and sharing – it’s helped me a lot.
Thanks, Rachel. I appreciate your encouragement.
Since this largely has been / is a vegetarian / vegan family cooking blog, I’m also going to add that I love “On Their Own Terms, Bringing Animal-Rights Philosophy Down to Earth” by Lee Hall. A really sensitive, compassionate book… (I started reading it and look forward to finishing it)
thank you for this suggestion anne, i will be looking for this one!
You’ll love it! It has a very refreshing perspective, and includes (or rather, is based on) animals living naturally in their own environments. Ties together the animal rights and environmental movements…
Thanks, Anne. The title sounds like it is compassionate to animal rights and to people of all beliefs and backgrounds. In other words, fantastic.
oohh thats how i felt about the help meet. but it was a humbling read. I get it, my spirit ate it up, but like Lindsay Wright said, your flesh wants to reject it.
True. Very true.
i’m in the middle of Hole in Our Gospel right now and I love it – talk about speaking right to my heart. I can’t wait to jump in to the other books – especially the Unicorn book. That is if you can spare the first and only addition…
Shoot, I better look for that.
Have you read “Crazy Love” by Francis Chan? It is really good and certainly wrecked me!
I actually read it last year, but my heart wasn’t quite ready for it yet. I think it deserves a reread now. Thanks for the reminder.
I’m going to have to read the first book! I am such an anxious person and it’s hard for me to always live in the moment. I think I could learn a lot from it!
I find myself rereading it often. It really is beautiful.
sarah, i am celebrating multi-dimensional you, today! it is clear from your blog how all of your passions complement each other and how each facet of you serves to raise the bar for every OTHER facet of you! there is great intention and direction and wisdom in your life and a WHOLE person grows in health: body, mind and spirit! you are loved and supported along your journey in every single place that you are, wherever your focus rests and for however long! but, truth be told, i can’t wait for your next vegan dessert recipe!
Thank you! And my next recipe shall be dessert
Can we go back to Indy? I just want to give you another real-life hug. x 1000
so thankful for you – and your heart. and your smile. and just you.
Ditto. Missed your face last night. I’ll take that hug, but I’d like at least a 45 minute heart-to-heart as well. That’s what I missed in Indy and I am still kicking myself.
same. same same same same same.
rain check. thankful for technology, but it won’t be the same.
xo
The book “Left to Tell” was incredible!! True story of a woman, Immaculee Ilibagiza who survived the Rwandan genocide in 1994 and how her faith played a large role in helping her deal with such a horrible experience. It definitely made me realize how lucky I am and how minor my problems are compared to what she went through. You would LOVE it if you haven’t already read it! I actually have an extra copy that I’d be happy to mail to you- I live in Portland, so it wouldn’t have far to go.
Oh wow, that sounds amazing! Maybe we could trade? Like any on my list???
That’d be great! I’d love to read One Thousand Gifts- that sounds awesome! Of course I’d send it back after I was done because it sounds like one of those books you could re-read.
But seriously, you can keep the copy of Left to Tell, because otherwise I’d just give it to Goodwill. My email address is emmykee21@yahoo.com if you’d like to email me your address, and then I can email you mine.
A friend actually has it right now, so it may be a little while. I’ll see if I can find Left to Tell at the library tomorrow and be in touch
Your blog has changed, and I just have to say that I have ALWAYS loved Peas and Thank You, and just when I don’t think it can get any better, it gets better! =) Love to see what the Lord is doing in your life.
Thank you, Jessica. I love to see it too and I love to see how it is changing my family. It’s nothing short of amazing. Thanks for your love.
There are two that I am absolutely obsessed with and have been for a while now. I have re-read them each at least once.
}. Both are great as well. So I guess that’s 4 books, but 3 are the Made to Crave books.
A Confident Heart by Renee Swope – I’ve read this & highlighted it & taken notes and…I’m just in love with this book. I have a paperback copy as well as on my Kindle (and iPad) because I never want to be without it. I wish everyone would read this book. It changed so much of the way I think and connect with God.
Made to Crave by Lysa TerKeurst was such a wonderful, real book. It’s not just for food issues. I think any person can relate to this book. It has a permanent place on my bedside table. The entire time I was reading I felt like she wrote this book just for me!
I also have the 60 day devotional (amazing!) and Made to Crave for Young Women {even though I’m not
I’m about to start Unglued by Lysa TerKeurst {I love everything she writes!!}, and I can’t wait.
I want to try some of your suggestions, too. Thanks for the ideas! I love that you are interspersing your blog with your real life & discussing your relationship with God. Since you promote a healthy lifestyle, I feel it completely relevant to discuss your spirituality since a strong faith is one of the key factors in having a happy & healthy life.
Excellent suggestions, Meme! I’ve read Made to Crave and really enjoyed it and took a lot from it. I’ve also wanted to read Unglued. I have another one of Lysa’s books on my shelf, More than a Good Bible Study Girl, but have yet to crack it. Thanks for encouraging my heart! Have a great weekend.
Good Calories, Bad Calories: Fats, Carbs, and the Controversial Science of Diet and Health [Paperback]
Gary Taubes (Author)
This was truly mind blowing. I applied all the knowledge and my hair stopped falling out, my nails got thicker and my skin after two years was back to normal, I lost 25 pounds and in general I feel like I am 16 again. My family and friends cannot get over the transformation and now are on the same path that this book lead me on.
Lords of Finance: The Bankers Who Broke the World [Paperback]
Liaquat Ahamed (Author)
If you really want to understand finance and how it effects your world then you have to read this book. It was like the skies parted and helped give a greater understanding of where we are now. My Grandfather and Father where blown away as well. Totally deserved the Pulitzer that it won in 2010.
The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment [Hardcover]
Eckhart Tolle (Author)
My best friend told me to pick this up after the world pretty much fell down and it was a life changing read to say the least.
Thanks, Shara! I’m familiar with the Taubes book (I’ve heard it’s rather heady) and the Eckhart Tolle book (most everyone has said the same thing that you did–life changing). I definitely need to take a good look at both of those. And let my husband read the finance book (sorry)
I heard that some people thought it was pretty heady too and Tauber just wrote a second book called-Why We Get Fat: And What to Do About It. My best friend read it instead of the version i read. Her Husband read both and said that for sure people could breeze through the second book a lot faster and retain it as well.
For sure the Lords of Finance is for someone that likes history and economics. I really wanted to wrap my head around what has been going on in our current economic situation. I read about the book when it was nominated for the Pulitzer. I gained more knowledge from that book then any of my Finance and Econ classes in college. Any guy I have bought it for really liked the book and found it so interesting. Great holiday gift or for Father’s Day.
I have also been wrecked, albeit in a good way, by three of the books you mentioned: 1000 gifts, 7, and Help Meet. God is taking me from being a glass half empty person to a glass half full person simply through the power of gratitude. In the last couple of years, I have finally begun to fully appreciate my loyal, loving husband. In addition, God is gently guiding me toward a life of living more simply, so that I have the resources to help others to simply live. I am so grateful and excited to see what God has in store for me and our family!
Thanks so much for sharing these wonderful books. I’m planning to read The Hole in the Gospel as soon as I can. One thing that God has shown me is that adoption is a huge part of his heart, and to that end, He blessed us with a beautiful daughter from Vietnam – such amazing grace! I get the feeling that He wants to bless you in this way as well. I am praying for wisdom, grace, and peace for you and your family!
Related to that, I highly recommend the book Kisses from Katie about a girl who has adopted fourteen (yes, 14!) Ugandan girls. Another of my favorite reads from this year is Surprised by Oxford by Carolyn Weber. It’s an amazing story of how God pursued the author while she was going to school at Oxford and just a beautiful picture of His grace. If you haven’t read these books yet, I hope you will and that you enjoy them as much as I did!
Jeanine, it sounds like our journeys have been pretty similar. Beautiful. I have Kisses from Katie on my bookshelf. I think I’ll read it next! And thank you for your encouragement in being open to whatever blessings are in store for us…I’m not sure what they are right now, which is both scary and, as you said, exciting. Have a wonderful weekend, and thank you!
Thank you so much for this list Mama Pea! I’ve been looking for some good faith-based books and I am confident that I’ll enjoy your recommendations. I’m especially excited to get my hands on the first one, One Thousand Gifts. I might have to make a little trip to Chapters after work tonight to pick it up!
You’ll love it. It’s magnificent. Have a great weekend!
Francis Chan! You have to read all three of his books. They will certainly wreck your life and a Christ-centered, Spirit-filled way. “Crazy Love”, “Forgotten God” and “Erasing Hell” are fantastic.
Okay, picking up Crazy Love again this morning… I read it last year, but my heart wasn’t as open to it as it should have been.
I just read Andrew Murray’s Humility, and it’s definitely a life-changing book. It is a very short book but Murray has packed the pages with wisdom about true humility. The book definitely spoke to my heart but it’s one of those books that you have to read many times to be able to receive everything or anything.
I will definitely check it out…thank you, Ronja!
Thank you for always sharing your heart so openly. I love to read your blog everyday. I love your writing style and sense of humor, and especially your heart.
The book that I have loved this year is one I learned of from your blog: “Grace for the Good Girl.” It has really spoken to me, and I’m using part of it with my Bible study group. We are studying Genesis this year, and I loved the way Emily talks about Eve and how she felt like she had to “do” rather than “be”. I think that’s something we still do today. I carry the book with me everywhere! Next on my list (after “Mrs. Kennedy and Me”) is “The Hole in Our Gospel.”
I’m glad you liked it, Beth. I met Emily at Influence and she is just a really awesome lady. Have a great weekend!
Although I haven’t read the Unicorn Book, I have to say you’ve nailed this list!
I’m still chewing on A Thousand Gifts…I have to take those powerful gratitude nuggets sloowwwly so I can take them all in. But it’s FOR SURE changed my perspective. I’m so grateful you sent it to me.
Also…Help Meet. Definitely have to take that one with a grain of salt, but it has some GOOOOD stuff in there. It changed the way I approach my marriage. Absolutely.
Yes, yes, yes. Happy weekend, friend.
I recently read “Bird by Bird,” by Anne Lamotte and while it didn’t wreck me, it made me laugh (and laugh, and laugh) and helped to get me more tapped into my creative side.
Oh, I like laughing and laughing and laughing. Checking into it. Thanks, Amy!
almost everything anne lamott writes is extraordinary, only slightly less so her fiction…also mary karr nails grace is all her writings with a straightforward, ballsy, tough girl perspective, which i appreciate because it appeals to the ‘everywoman,’ people who grew up and out of messy pasts…she’s cynical until grace grabs her by the neck and throttles her! and then, she’s clear, no one can take it away and there’s no turning back…both of these ladies write without certainty, ‘certainty’ about god being one thing that turns me off and will make me kindly, gently ‘turn away’ (from the speaker/writer)…no one knows anything for sure, unless they know certain things for sure because of their own personal experiences, and then those things they know for sure, are sure FOR THEM, not necessarily for everyone else…i appreciate lamott and karr’s awareness of that, and that they simply share how god’s magic has seeped in, swept in, tornado-ed through, and sometimes just rested quietly in the corners of their lives until they were ready to see it…
Oh goodness, “cynical until grace grabs her by the neck and throttles her.” That sounds hauntingly familiar.
I will second the Anne Lamott recommendation. Her writing is so so so powerful and is also some of the funniest writing I’ve ever read.
Thanks, Liz. I appreciate it.
Captivated by Staci Eldgredge WRECKED me! Every part just spoke to my heart. I could only read a couple pages at a time before becoming over run with emotions.
For fiction, nothing beats Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. Oh the tears, the heartache and the joy! The book is a fictional adaption of Hosea and just is moving.
For Marriage I love Marriage on the Rock by Jimmy Evans. Funny and practical!
I definitely need to read Redeeming Love. I have hear such amazing things. Thanks for the reminder!
I was actually going to recommend Redeeming Love after reading through all the comments. Glad someone else loved it as well! I read it this spring when I learned that my husband had been unfaithful for all 4 years of our marriage. Talk about wrecked. Yet this book (in addition to devouring scripture) changed my heart. As hurt as I was the my husband intentionally betrayed me, my eyes were opened to the reality that I intentionally betray God every single day as I chose my idols and my plans over Him.
Francine Rivers has a gift for bringing the scriptures to life. I also really love her book A Lineage of Grace. It’s a compilation of the stories of Tamar, Rahab, Ruth, Bathsheba, and Mary. It’s a beautiful story of how God can redeem any circumstance.
I loved one thousand gifts also, have that book, her beautiful gift book the pictures are amazing. LOVE the app one thousand gifts. Its a great way to journal and take pictures on your phone or tablet while on the go.
some books that made me take pause and really changed me are on my blog as reviews but here are the titles:
Under the Over Pass
The Scent of Water
One In A Million
Oh God Please Help Me with My Doubt and Oh God Please Teach Me To Pray
(here is a link if your interested in reading about the and seeing if you’d like to read them too: http://lovingthesemicountrylife.wordpress.com/category/soul-searching-books/)
Thank you so much, I will check out your reviews!
I recently became part of the She Reads Truth community and have loved it. That journal has been bookmarked as a future purchase of mine (maybe next month?) since I just bought a new journal. Thank you for all of the book recommendations. I, myself, am diving into sci-fi this month: dune.
I need a new journal too! I’m glad you’ve been enjoying She Reads Truth. It just keeps growing (and growing our hearts!).
I often read trashy fiction for pure pleasure when I’m travelling or in ‘hibernation mode’ during the winter months and admittedly they usually aren’t mind blowing. I’m really intrigued with reading One Thousand Gifts now….
Sometimes those mind numbing books are just what I need too.
I’ve been meaning to read “7″ for awhile. Thanks for the reminder. Another great book – “Love Does” by Bob Goff. So awesome.
Thanks, CJ! Yes, read 7 and you will be moved!
I wanted to share some feedback with you. I’ve been reading your blog for a long time and I also love your cookbook, which I use all the time. And I think it’s great that religion is so important to you, but I really don’t enjoy reading about it. I miss all the good recipes and funny stories! Obviously, I know it’s your blog and you can do whatever you want with it, but to the extent you’re interested in what one of your readers thinks, that’s my two cents. Maybe this blog just isn’t for me anymore!
My sentiments exactly. I never comment but actually came here to say this same thing. It’s been fun but I think it’s time to move on. Best of luck!
As I said to Kati, Liz, fair enough. I’m just sharing my life and my heart, which is what I think authentic blogging is about. I know not everyone is going where my life or blog is headed. I do wish you all the best, though!
Fair enough, Kati. I guess I just don’t really view this blog as a business anymore…it’s just my life and my heart. If not everyone is a fan, and my “following” suffers, I am willing to accept that to be unapologetically who I am now. I do wish you all the best, though!
Thanks for your thoughtful reply – all the best to you and your family as well!
I just wanted to tell you thank you for sharing so much about #SheReadsTruth. I think you’re the first one I saw talking about it and I LOVE the studies! I skipped this last one, but am excited to jump back on the wagon on Monday.
Me too, Heather! I’ll enjoy sharing it with you next week!
Wow isn’t it amazing how God puts the things you need in front of you? I’ve been thinking about making a similar change like the man in Hole in the Gospel (though I’m no CEO!) and I think this is the book I need to help me do it. Thank you so much for recommending it, I can’t wait to get reading!
Amazing, Emily. I hope it is enlightening for you. I can’t wait to see where your journey takes you!
I am a relatively new reader of your blog, and I am so grateful to your writing has come into my life. You’ve given me a number of reality checks just when I’ve needed them – not something I’m finding too many other places on the internet! I am particularly grateful for all you’ve shared about your evolving faith. My faith has been badly bruised in the past few years following a personal tragedy and I honestly believe your blog popped up on my radar to help me on my journey. I will definitely check out these books; please keep doing what you’re doing!
Irene, I hope you are giving yourself grace with the bruised faith. I am so sorry for the tragedy you’ve faced, but I really think you will find some comfort and beauty in THE NOW if you read A Thousand Gifts. Maybe this will give you some clarity over the hard seasons you’ve faced. Saying a prayer for you! Have a wonderful weekend.
hello lovey!!!!!!!!!!!
first off Lulus comment about our photo melted my heart. XOXOXOXOOXO
and i wanted to tell you about a new book i’m reading called FROM BLAH TO AWE by Jenna Lucado. She is so awesome and so so SO real. you know, the kind of girl we like.
She is messy (hearted) and i love that. Yup her dad is Max Lucado! cool, huh?
also, today on my favorite radio station i heard something that stuck with me. I think it was from a book, not sure what book. Anyways, think about our Father as our HOLY FATHER IN LAW! eeks! as in, we are married to his kid, ya know? So guess how a father in law would feel if were not treating his son in a kind, respectful, loving way. not so great. Same with our husbands. we are God’s girls and so they want to be sure to take care of us and love his so that her DAD is happy. i just loved that. I never really thought about treating Dan like that so that God would of course want me to treat his son with love and patience, etc.
wew. i have some work to do. My actual father in law is coming over in a little while and i will have to tell him of this crazy anaology. Then we are all off to Cracker Barrell for supper. Do they have grits at supper time? I hope so.
love you lots.
XOXO
I’ll have to work on that God/Father-In-Law analogy a bit…but I see your point
I haven’t heard of the Jenna Lucado book, but I have loved the Max Lucado books I’ve read, so I bet she has a really neat perspective.
Enjoy your Cracker Barrel. How did I miss that when we were out your way?!
And Lulu’s right…you are pretty (outside and especially in!).
Thanks for the reminder that She Reads Truth is starting a new plan soon. I’ve signed up! Another thing I have been “meaning” to do for the last few months but now just did it!
“Being okay with complacency? Totally wrecked.” – this is something I realized about two weeks ago (without reading that book but by running a marathon oddly enough…) and it’s amazing how that totally changes the way I do things but has also been a real struggle this past week or so with feeling like I am completely not where I am supposed to be. If I think God’s telling me to jump, I am warming up to the idea of just saying “how high?” instead of over thinking everything. It’s pretty crazy where faith will take you when you just give it a chance. Right now I am working on trying to listen to find out where I am supposed to go next
Have a great weekend!
If you stand at the foot of the high dive for too long, you might not ever get in the water. Hope your weekend brings you some clarity and maybe even a little push!
That Unicorn book looks like a keeper! I’m rereading The Five Love Languages for a small group at my church that starts up this Sunday. Aubrey and I read it years ago and we think it’s funny how both of our languages have changed over the years.
I read that as well–definitely changed the one-size-fits-all approach to loving people!
I recently read : Cleaning House by Kay Wyma and while I wouldn’t say it “wrecked” me, it really did change the way I’m approaching a lot of things at my house with my kiddos. (I am also 34 with 2 little girls so I think I can relate pretty well to you
It’s about cleaning up youth entitlement . It definitely is Christian-focused so I think you’d like it. Plus, everyone I know has issues with their children feeling entitled. (Not saying yours are but let’s be honest… most kids act this way eeeeevery once in a while).
I lurve this post because of all the great book suggestions! I love to read and while I do not tend to read Christian-based stuff too often, maybe the fact that I am actually replying to this particular post and have read through 60+ of hte responses is a sign that I *should* try something else beyond vampires/ witches/ 2 starcrossed lovers with communication problems/ time travel/ murder mysteries…. etc.
I totally feel you on the entitlement deal…for all of us. Thank you for the book suggestion!
Thanks for the great tips! I am going to check out a few of these
I’ve been interested to see the transformation taking place on your blog (and obviously within you!), and I’m hanging in there through the strength of your passion, though I’m not particularly religious. I feel as if you’ve made some oblique references to the changes you have experienced. I would be very interested to hear a deeper and sincere account of the changes you and your family are doing through, if you feel like sharing — and I understand you may not. I always had the sense that you had a really happy marriage/family life, so it is surprising to hear you hint here that maybe you weren’t as happy as you seemed. I feel as if I will be able to relate more to the shift you are undergoing — which, who knows, could motivate me and others to make similar positive changes in our lives — if I understood better why it was needed, what specifically happened to shake you up, and how you are changing your outlook day by day. Would you be willing to share your speech from the Influence conference on the blog, for example? I hope this isn’t too nosy — it’s just that I like you, find you interesting, and would like to better understand this journey you are on.
Agreed!! We know from your comments that your health caused the change in diet…but what caused your change in religious fervor? Would love a blog post on that as that is really what people relate to…the journey!!
I truly appreciate both of you taking interest in my story. And it is a story I want to tell. The problem is, it’s a really long story…say 34 years in the making? It’s not a blog post by any stretch of the imagination. I think my Influence speech is probably a pretty good condensed version. My understanding is that the audio recordings will be available online in the next week or so, so I will keep you posted.
I don’t consider it nosiness–I think your genuine interest might be deeper than curiosity, though. Kate, you asked why the change (which I would label as a surrender) was “needed,” and as for that, I think it’s something, no matter how happy our families are, how together we are, how successful we are in the eyes of man, that we all need.
I’m an email away if you want to discuss this more. And thanks so much for your really thoughtful questions.
Thanks so much for the thoughtful reply, MP. Sounds like you have a book in the making! One that I would love to read. I will wait to hear the audio of your speech and possibly contact you by email after that if I have more questions. Until then, I will continue to follow your blog and piece together what I can of your journey. I find it really intriguing! I am a writer too…and always want to know what’s underneath the surface of things. Your recent posts have left me a bit frustrated and wanting to know more…but I know that is not necessarily a bad thing. Oh, and speaking of books with a spiritual underpinning, “The Habit of Being,” the letters of Flannery O’Connor (a devout Catholic) wrecked me many moons ago.
Just added a couple of these to my reading list! Thanks! Always need a good recommendation.
It seems there are so many good “wrecking” books lately! For sure 7, Love Does, The Circle Maker, God Can’t Sleep…my list keeps growing, but I am so glad that God is “wrecking” a whole community. The best part for me has been having a group of friends to reflect with and change with. I have appreciated the openness you have taken with your faith! We all should…thanks for the reminder!
Thanks for your wrecking list. I’ll be taking note! And I really appreciate your encouragement. Thank you!
I recently started A Thousand Gifts and am really enjoying it. Taking it slow to really “get it”.
I love Jerry Bridges’ books: The Pursuit of Holiness, Respectable Sins, and The Practice of Godliness (among others). They are all fantastic and incredibly convicting. Incredibly convicting. Also, for fiction, I love Redeeming Love. It’s beautiful.
I have a hold on Redeeming Love at our library, but I might not be able to wait that long!
Love reading these comments and how most of your readers are willing to take you for who you really are and are open to receive the beauty of your surrendered soul
As far as books go… Yes for One Thousand Gifts! It completely changed my life as well, love it! I just got the Hole in Gospel book from the Team World Vision director of my area, can’t wait to read it. Truth is I am a little scared of reading 7 and the convicting that will be coming with it, hoping to get the courage soon.
One I enjoyed recently was the “5 Levels of Leadership” recommended by my pastor as I started leading my first small group and I really liked it; I was a little skeptical at first but it is written by a pastor and is strategic but still down to earth. Just ordered “Sacred Marriage” that a friend recommended and can’t wait to get into that one, I think that is an area that needs constant feeding. Oh, and for a little variety, I got hooked into “Angelfall” {sort of a teen fiction “Twilight” style}, it was a quick entertaining read.
Wrecking allows for re-building, and that is good! XO
I love this: “Wrecking allows for rebuilding.” That is going on my whiteboard this week. Have a great Sunday, Adri!
love this…and your book list…especially the last one…wandering in here from Ken and July Wylie’s
Side note…your list is wonderful…I think you’d like “Anything” by Jennie Allen
I will check it out, Kara. Thank you so much!
Thank you so much for this post. 7 has been on my “to read” list for a while now and I’m about to start Crazy Love, which I’ll be reading together with my husband.
I’ve fallen a bit off the She Reads Truth wagon, but I’m really looking forward to getting back on track with the new study tomorrow. Thank you so much for being an example!
I’m looking forward to it too, Emily. And I’ve got to reread Crazy Love. Hope you and your husband enjoy it.
50 Shades of Gray. Just kidding. Kind of.
I loved “Kisses from Katie” by Katie Davis. I highly recommend the Audiobook.
Thanks, Cindy. It’s on my bookshelf right now!
Thanks for a great post about books! I put the 7: An Experimental Mutiny Against Excess on hold at my library. I have read and own “Created to Be His Helpmeet.” I’m in agreement with you–a lot of good stuff in there, plenty that I disagree with. I have a 3 month old so I haven’t been reading much, but I have really enjoyed this devotional: Ordinary Mom, Extraordinary God.
I’m a long-time reader and first-time commenter. I have enjoyed your blog – the recipes and stories, and your hilarious writing – for years. Thank you for sharing your food and your family with us. And now, that you for sharing your faith. It is an encouragement and a blessing. I so appreciate your willingness to take risks and to be so unapologetic about what God has been doing in your life.
As for the books – I read “One Thousand Gifts” and it wrecked me too, in the best way possible. I have started counting gifts, seeing grace in everything, and has changed my perspective and my relationship with God. I know others have mentioned it, but David Platt’s “Radical” was incredibly convicting, as was “The Irresistible Revolution, Living as an Ordinary Radical” by Shane Claiborne and Jim Wallis. Henri Nouwen, Deitrich Bonhoeffer, and C.S. Lewis are some of my favorite authors on Christianity and faith.
Christine, thank YOU! I have to admit, every time I start to read a comment that starts “I’m a long-time reader”, I get a little pit in my stomach, bracing myself for words that hurt. I should probably put my faith where my fear is, no? I appreciate your encouragement…not that the discouraging words are going to shut Him off, but a kind word certainly helps–so thank you! I have heard many good things about “Radical.” I will add it to my list. And thank you again!
“Put my faith where my fear is” – This Sarah, is what you have been doing, with She Reads Truth, with speaking at last weekend’s conference, and with the words you write here. Your courage to share has encouraged me to be more open about sharing my faith in my daily life. I, too, fear how others will react. But I don’t want that fear to stop me. Perfect love casts out all fear. I lean into that truth, and it gives me courage. Praying that same courage will continue to strengthen you.
Beautifully said. Thank you so, so much for these words and your prayers. I hope He uses us both in meaningful ways and that we always let Him!
did you grow up particularly religious? it just kind of seems that this came out of nowhere-not that it is a bad thing at all-quite the opposite!
I need to get my hands on some of these books. I need some serious “wrecking”. I’m still trying to unpack too and it was only me who was out of town, not the family. I can’t imagine. Thanks for the inspiration friend (and the pumpkin recipe from the other day- finally playing catch up).
One Thousand Gifts….just sayin’….
I’ve read pretty much every blog post for the past 2.5 years although I rarely comment.
I’ve loved your blog, and your recipes, even though I’m not vegan (actually try to eat paleo/primal most of the time). Lately though, like other readers, I’ve found the shift onto more of a focus on faith to be a bit too much. I of course know this is your blog, and I’m sure many people are thrilled about it, so I wish you all the best.
However, and my reason for commenting today, I found it very concerning to see you recommending Created to Be His Helpmeet which supports some very dangerous ideas, and is frequently victim-blaming. Love, Joy, Feminism has a great take-down of why it is so dangerous. http://www.patheos.com/blogs/lovejoyfeminism/tag/created-to-be-his-help-meet
I’m so glad someone else noticed this! Mama Pea, I urge you to do some more research into the Pearls and their teachings about marriage and parenting. Scary stuff!
I wanted to second Rebekah’s comment about Debi and Michael Pearl and their teachings. There is a whole community of spiritual abuse survivors whose lives have been dictated by many of the Pearl’s teachings at: http://www.patheos.com/blogs/nolongerquivering/
It breaks my heart to hear the stories of survivors who were abused in communities that twisted God’s love into legalistic, fear-based doctrine. Many survivors point to the Pearl’s teachings as the core of their family and relationship “rules.”
The Pearl’s book on parenting, To Train up a Child, is also very controversial. There have been multiple child abuse charges and a handful of child deaths in homes that practiced the Pearl’s discipline methods. Here is an article about it: http://www.slate.com/blogs/xx_factor/2011/10/03/did_the_disturbing_philosophy_of_how_to_train_up_a_child_lead_to.html
It sounds like what you took away from Debi Pearl’s book was helpful for you and your marriage, which is wonderful! Based on what you gleaned from her book, it sounds like you might enjoy the book “Codependent No More” written by Melody Beattie. It focuses on how to have healthy, co-creative relationships by focusing on caring for yourself and setting healthy boundaries, while respecting others by not trying to change them. It has helped me in my relationships with my family, friends, and my fiance.
Thanks for your take & your book suggestion! I truly appreciate it.
Where did you get your SheReadtheTruth personalized journal?
I am waaaaaay late to the game on this post….but I wanted to recommend ‘Quiet: the power of introverts in a world that can’t stop talking’ and ‘The Power of Habit’.
Both a genre I would never normally read but I learned so much from.
The Power of Habit changed my life- still taking notes on that one and our church is doing a sermon series based on habits now!
7 was recommended to me by a couple people and I’m excited to read it.
Thanks for sharing the others- cant wait to delve in.
And thank you for sharing your heart- love how the comments show how you are inspiring others everyday!
Take care friend.
Thank you, Nicole!