In anticipation of the New Year, I enjoy choosing new Bible studies or books of encouragement to add to my daily Bible reading. As Spurgeon so eloquently put it, “Visit many good books, but live in the Bible.”
I thought it would be nice to share a few of my favorite Bible studies that I have done in the past that really had life long effects for my walk with Christ. To clarify, it is the Word of God that changes lives, but He uses many different tools to convey His Word. I have found several authors who have mentored me along in my faith, but it is the straightedge of Scripture that they have mentored me in. With that in mind, I will link to some of these. These links are affiliate links, which means that I get a small amount from each order. Any income generated will be put into our local church’s mission program.
Becoming a Woman of Freedom by Cynthia Heald is a great book for overcoming past sin, guilt, or wrong thinking that might be holding the believer back from true freedom in Christ. Though most Scriptures are not taken from the KJV, Cynthia’s style is to allow the reader to look into the Word herself to find the Truth. This is the beauty of all her Bible studies, which makes any of the “Becoming a Woman of…” series a great choice.
Lies Women Believe by Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth also addresses the wrong thinking that holds women back from true freedom in Christ. Written in a more modern style and addressing issues more directly, I highly recommend this study or the one written for young women for anyone trying to break free from guilt, shame, discouragement, or worldly thinking. I would also encourage you to look up the Scriptures in the KJV, and read the context of the verses given.
A Cluster of Camphire by Susannah Spurgeon is an encouraging and strengthening read for those who suffer from chronic pain or illness. Mrs. Spurgeon suffered greatly with unmanaged pain that left her bed-ridden often. In her most difficult moments, she found great comfort and care in Jesus, which she transparently shares with the reader.
Suffering is Never for Nothing by Elisabeth Elliot addresses every kind of suffering imaginable. She defines suffering as “having what you don’t want, or wanting what you don’t have.” Her own heartaches underly the compassionate, yet honest encouragement she gives in this little book.
Dark Clouds, Deep Mercy by Mark Vroegop highlights the songs of lament in the Bible and the need for lament in the life of believers who have suffered a crisis or tragedy that left them reeling. For those who think they have to put on a happy face through their suffering, this study teaches the value of weeping with those who weep, and finding the comfort only Christ can offer.
Pullin’ Weeds, Plantin’ Seeds by Crystal L. Ratcliff is a great study for anyone looking to grow in discipleship. Practical, easy to read, and written with KJV Scriptures, this has been one of my more memorable and helpful studies in the Word!
The Hour That Changes the World by Dick Eastman is still changing my prayer life as I implement many of Author Eastman’s suggestions. His step by step prayer plan can be implemented entirely or with the pieces that fit best into your routine. I especially enjoyed finding the prayer maps that he provides free of charge from his website at everyhome.org.
Why Am I Feeling Like This by David Murray is a Biblical and practical help for teens dealing with anxiety or depression. It helps them know they are not alone, and it gives tools to work through the emotions that are overwhelming them. There is a parent’s book also, called, Why Is My Teen Feeling Like This. https://amzn.to/3Ga2pUg
This is not a written book, yet, but I ordered it recently to replace my prayer journal. It can be filled with mini binder filler paper, and there are dividers that can be purchased as well. This is my favorite method of putting together a prayer journal, so that I can add and subtract as needed. I am working now on some section dividers and prayer prompts that are printable. Hopefully I will have those available to you soon.
There are many more books I could recommend, but this is all I will share for today. Please comment with a study or book you highly recommend. I would love to hear what has been helpful to you!
His Song in the Night 