Year-End Book Review!

I’ll keep this short and sweet. My top three books of the year are:

1. Most Impactful: Humility by Andrew Murray

No other book, save Scripture itself, has ever so convinced me of man’s desperate need for humility and the deep, abiding power that a humble life has over disappointment and dissatisfaction. Murray beautifully and persuasively explains how we can lean into suffering—not with trepidation, but with joy—knowing that God is in the valley with us, and through that suffering, He produces a version of ourselves far more remarkable than could be achieved sans pain. Murray masterfully reveals the true oddity of humility. By rejecting our “right” to be on top, we actually become stronger, better, kinder more resilient creatures. How extraordinary!

2. Best Fiction: Miracles by John Coleman

Miracles has an incredible way of drawing Westernized readers into a very common setting, then captivating them with very uncommon (or miraculous) experiences. It read like a great journalist/detective mystery (which I can’t get enough of) while truly energizing and challenging my faith. Not many detective/mystery novels have done that. Ultimately, I loved this book because it was such a fun and creative take on the nature of God. It’s just like God to meet us exactly where we are—in our everyday routines, in traffic, at work, or while picking up the kids—and shake us up, leaving us in undeniable wonder of His beauty and glory. I finished this book with honest expectation for God to do something great, and when our faith is built up, miracles really do happen.

3. Fastest Read: The Perilous Fight by Dr. Ben Carson

Dr. Ben Carson artfully exposes the tactics of America’s greatest enemies in this book. I was absolutely engrossed from start to finish and could barely set it down to eat. Dr. Carson has an excellent way of describing the most critical threats facing American families, structures, and systems while simultaneously acknowledging the standards and foundations of excellence that still stand in our shining city on a hill. He gives readers a hope filled call to action and, as any good coach would, delivers a hearty slap on the back as he sends you out. The Perilous Fight reminded me of America’s virtuous cornerstone, gave me a clear understanding of the challenges ahead, and armed me with the knowledge, encouragement, and faith needed to join in the fight for the heart of my beloved country.

Cheers to the books that shaped us in 2024, my friends! To great years, great books, and a beautiful life.

p.s. if any of these are in your top for 2024, or end up making into your 2025 list, I would love to hear about it!

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