Here is a list of some of my most recent reads. It has been a fun few months as I have made my way through some very insightful and challenging reads. Take a look.

The Christian Atheist – by Craig Groeschel

Written to those who find themselves believing in God but living as if He doesn’t exist.  Great read and very challenging to anyone who has been a Christian for more than 5 years.

The Prodigal God – by Timothy Keller

Another great read that walks the reader through the timeless and classic parable of the prodigal son.

Counterfeit Gods – Timothy Keller

The latest book by Tim Keller that looks at the practical temptations of idolatry in every person’s life.

Fields of Gold – Andy Stanley (re-read)

A simple book that will change people’s perspective on the way that we look at money and giving.  Moreover, it is a great reminder about the providential power of God.  Another must read!

The Next Generation Leader – Andy Stanley (re-read)

Any person found in a position of leadership or that aspires to lead must read this book.  It is a classic read on the subject of leading in our present world.

Those are a few of the books that I have made it through this summer and I hope one of them inspires you to read it.

To me there is nothing quite like reading a new book. Below are some of the most recent reads I have jumped into over the last couple of months.

Heaven- E. M. Bounds

This book is a very contemplative look at what the Bible reveals about Heaven.  It was written over 100 years ago and is a classic gym.  I don’t think we dwell on the reality of heaven near enough.  If we did, our interpretation of life and its events would be drastically different.  Want to grow in your understanding of heaven?  Then you need to pick up this classic book by Bounds.

Ignite- Nelson Searcy

Searcy is a tactician when it comes to the systems of the church.  This book gives practical ideas and creative perspectives to doing church week in and week out.  Great read for any leader in the church.

10 Dumb Things Smart Christians Believe- Larry Osborne

This book I picked up merely for a fun read.  The title captured my attention and the truth is a really enjoy the things that Larry Osborne writes.  If you pick up this book you will find 10 widely held beliefs that are both dumb and dangerous.  There is no doubt that this book will inspire its readers to grow in their Christian thinking and theology.

Christianity 101- Gilbert Bilezikian

This book walks through the basic tenets of the Christian faith.  Everything from “who is God” to “what is the role of the church” are talked about in this book.  It is a timeless classic and is a book I have tried to read over and over every couple of years.  For any inspiring theologian it is a must have!

Stop Acting Rich- Thomas J. Stanley

This is a book that I am just starting.  Dr. Stanley has made a practice studying the habits of millionaires and is now comparing them to the lifestyles of the middle class.  I am looking forward to the insights that it reveals.  I will let you know my thoughts as I make my way through the book.

Well, there are some of the books that I have made my way through over the past couple of months.  Here is what I hope to get through by the end of the summer.

Lead Like Jesus - Ken Blanchard

Next Generation Leader- Andy Stanley (re-read)

How Full is Your Bucket- Tom Rath and Donald o. Clifton

The Gospel According to Starbucks- Leonard Sweet

And several others.  Any other books out there that you would recommend for summer reading?

I picked up a new book the other day titled Made to Stick. The book is written by brothers, Chip and Dan Heath.  It has gained lots of recognition in the business world and I thought it was worth my time to read. The premise of the book is exploring why some ideas seem to survive while other ideas die.

I will blog about the book when I finish it.  However, in the meantime I am curious to hear your thoughts on why some ideas survive and others die.  Also, what companies or ideas have you seen really stick over the years and what do you think were the contributing factors?

I would love to hear what you have to say!

Here are some books that have captured my attention recently:

- The Unity Factor by Larry Osborne

A book written to Church Leadership on the importance of team unity.  Great read and a must read for church leadership!

- The Five Temptations of a CEO by Patrick Lencioni

Quick and easy read detailing possible pitfalls of Leaders.  Another great addition to any leader’s library.

- Disciplines of a Godly Man by r. Kent Hughes

A classic book on the importance of living a disciplined and devoted life.  This book is a great challenge to any mans devotional life and worth the read!

 Recently, I was given the book Axiom, by a fellow pastor friend.  This book has not  been a disappointment.  It is full of great truths on the art of leadership.  It is  written and reads almost like a devotional book, with 76 leadership “axioms” in  all.  If you want to grow as a leader and even more specifically as a leader in a local church  this book is a most read!