Growing in Grace: Resources, Winter 2022, Vol. 2

Quarterly mini-book reviews for Christian leaders

This December, I offer a curated book list with four items. I choose books that address specific areas in the life of the Christian leader. It is my hope that these mini-reviews not only inspire your personal reading but also provide ideas for holiday gift-giving. Happy reading!

Christian Leadership 

D. Michael Lindsay, Hinge Moments: Making the Most of Life’s Transitions (IVP, 2021).* 

To research his dissertation, Michael Lindsay interviewed 600 business leaders. Drawing on what he learned, Lindsay recognizes that many of us are in transition and that effective leaders must both handle transitions well and mentor others to do the same. His advice is practical and accessible, and the illustrating stories memorable. Transitions can offer great opportunities for growth in skills and in godliness.

Education  

Oliver, Lowell, Tools for Teachers: How to Teach, Lead, and Learn Like the World’s Best Educators (John Catt Educational, 2022). 

As a podcaster, Lowell has interviewed many educational leaders. His book summarizes their advice on these topics:  teach, lead, and learn. Lowell’s writing is offers something of value for both the new instructor and the experienced pedagogue. 

Understanding the Times (Hint—it’s the Christmas Season) 

Christopher Ash, Repeat the Sounding Joy: A Daily Advent Devotional on Luke 1 – 2 (The Good Book Company, 2019). 

Advent devotionals abound. Christopher Ash’s is worth reading. An excellent Bible scholar, who combines depth with heart, Ash’s closeup look at Luke’s rich account of the Savior’s birth provides another opportunity to ponder, as Mary did, the news that “A Savior is born.” 

Personal Discipleship   

Tyler Staton, Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools: An Invitation to the Wonder and Mystery of Prayer. Zondervan, 2022. 

If we are honest, most of us would admit that we want to pray more, but turning want into practice is hard. Staton invites us to the joy and challenge of prayer, in a way that reminds us that each of us is made for communion with God. Adoration, persistence, and rebellious fidelity are just a few of the practical, worshipful, and inspiring topics in this volume. 

*Currently available on Hoopla, an Electronic Lending Library app tied to local libraries.