30 Book Challenge

Love reading? Hate to read? Either way, I want you to consider joining me in 2019 for a “30 Book Challenge.” In our digital, social media, high-octane entertainment age – I realize that a challenge to pick up a black and white print book is so…. 1990’s. But yes, let me challenge you back to the stone age and invite you to read this year. You might not be ready for a “30 Book Challenge” and that is fine! Just pick a good book and get started reading.

Below is a list of 10 books I enjoyed in 2018 and 10 books that I plan to enjoy in 2019. I included some of the books I call, “fun reads” and other books that require more effort, coffee, and undistracted time.

2018

This is a fantastic book helping the Christian to navigate the political climate that we find ourselves in today. Pick it up and be ready to be challenged!

 

 

 

 

This past year I had the privilege to travel with my good friend Aron Osborne. (By the way – more on Aron and his new book in a post coming soon!) We went to Alphen Aan Den Rijn in the Netherlands. You can read about that trip – Here. This is what brought me to return and re-read this classic, inspiring story. Have you read it? It is an easy read – grab and copy, you will not regret it!

 

 

 

I like “Behind the scenes stories.” So, it was no surprise that I loved reading this book!

 

 

 

 

My youngest son, Tanner – was now old enough to watch the movie Unbroken with me this year. “But…” I told him, “the book is soooo much better!” So, we read it together. Tanner was 13. He LOVED the book and I think enjoyed the movie more because he had a better picture and more data since he had read the book. Parents, read to and with your kids! Make the time, turn off the TV… and read.

Have you seen the movie and not read the book? Ya gotta read the book!

 

I can’t say enough about this book by Paul Tripp. It will challenge you, stir you, and fill your heart with… Awe! Do yourself a favor and go order a copy right now.

 

 

 

 

My wife and I found ourselves in Dallas, Texas this year. We had some time so we snagged a tour of the Texas School Book Depository on Dealey Plaza where John F. Kennedy was shot on that infamous day. The book is written by Clint Hill – He was the secret service agent seen climbing on the trunk of the Presidents moving car after the shots were fired.

 

 

This same vacation took us to Waco, Texas. Magnolia Market and Magnolia Table were on our list of places to visit. That is why I snagged a copy of Chip Gaines book. (Kim and I love the Chip and Joanna Gaines story. You can read about it, Here)

If you are not used to reading, this is an easy read, very engaging and yet, it also has the ability to challenge the reader.

 

Well… while I am at it, the same trip took us to Tulsa, Oklahoma for a U2 concert. Yep, I am a fan, which means… gotta read a new book about U2 before and after the concert. Side Note: Kim and I were both at a U2 concert 32 years – to the day – prior in Tampa. We did not know each other at that time. We met later that year – so, it was special for us to be at a U2 concert 32 years – to the day – later.

 

 

 

Do you want to grow in addressing racial issues from a biblical standpoint? This is a great book! I have read a few on the subject, but this one keeps your nose in the Bible and offers the most overlooked and yet the most helpful answer to the racial tensions of our day. No, I won’t tell you what it is… Grab a copy and read the book.

 

 

This has quickly become one of my favorite books on prayer. (Another favorite… A Praying Life by Paul Miller) When was the last time you read a book on prayer for the intended purpose of helping you grow in your prayer life? Maybe it’s time to do a refresher? Here ya go!

 

 

 

Thank you Tony Reinke for this book! It should be required reading for every smart phone user! Seriously, it should just come free with the purchase of your smart phone. Parents… buy this book for your teens!!  And then, read it for yourself. I am not overstating it… get this book!

 

 

Have you had a chance to read the book I wrote last year? I would be honored if you grabbed a copy and gave it a read. You can order it from Amazon – Here. Also, if you would… please leave a review of the book on Amazon. It helps an aspiring author out.

 

 

So, I have listed more than 10 books. Sorry, I couldn’t stop myself. I read some other great books in 2018. Some were theological, apologetic, historical, some were books by dead authors and others by current authors. But, there is one book that stands alone. It has the power to transform you. It is the one book that can turn the light on in the darkness. Friends, I invite you, I challenge you to read the Bible. Find the best plan that works for you, but spend time in God’s Word in 2019!  A reading plan I highly recommend is read scripture. Download the app – and get to reading!

Go here: readscripture.org

I am out of space and out of time. I will post again soon regarding books I plan to read in 2019.

Please comment below.

• What was your favorite book of 2018?
• What are you looking to read in 2019?
• Who wants to join with me in my “30 Book Challenge?”