Ain't No River
by Sharon Ewell Foster

I love Sharon Foster, and I enjoy reading what she writes. Ain't No River is a story with texture and substance, immersing us in a drama with heart-touching characters, conflicts and resolutions. You'll also find Someone behind the scenes accomplishing his larger purposes. For many readers this book will be a cross-cultural experience—and often our most rewarding experiences are cross-cultural. I'm delighted to recommend this book.

Karen Kingsbury has written a heart-gripping love story. A Moment of Weakness demonstrates the devastating consequences of wrong choices, and the long shadows deception casts over the lives of God's children. It also shows the even longer reach of God's providence, grace and forgiveness.

A Reveolution in Generosity:
Transforming Stewards to be Rich Toward God
by Wes Willmer

Our approach to money and possessions isn't just important—it's central to our spiritual lives. Our giving is a reflexive response to the grace of God in our lives. It comes out of the transforming work of Christ in us. I pray that this book will lead you to a greater understanding and appreciation of this truth.

Atlantyx captured me from the start. Imaginative and mysterious, it portrays the yearnings of the heart for a greater reality—and the vulnerability of the heart to false realities. It's a captivating story.

Lisa Bergren's The Begotten is a rich and carefully crafted medieval mystery, reflecting extensive research. I felt transported to another time and place, ushered into a fascinating world. Lisa tells a compelling story, and tells it extremely well.

The Breaking Point is compelling and strikingly honest. This story touches the heart and gives hope for struggling marriages. Karen Ball writes with clarity, depth, and power.

With homespun warmth, my friend Dr. Walt Larimore tells stories that integrate the science and art of medicine. Walt is a brilliant life-long
learner who is patient-centered. Bryson City Tales portrays medical practice as something deeply personal, relational and spiritual.

My friend Chuck Holton is a man of character and perspective. He writes skillfully and with faith-grounded insight. We live in a time when courage is often celebrated but seldom practiced. What we need is to learn to trust Christ for our immediate futures as much as we must trust Him for our eternal futures. I pray God will use Chuck's book to release people from their fears and light a fire of Christian courage.

This is an extraordinary treasure of thought-provoking reflections, by many of my favorite authors (including Lewis, Tolkien, and Chesterton). The sections on "Imagination, Beauty and Creativity" and "Myth and Fantasy" were particularly rich, at times enchanting. "In Praise of Stories" was one of many intriguing articles I intend to go back to. I would read one or two of these delicacies, then force myself to put the book down, to contemplate what I'd read, yes, but also to ration out the precious remains. Whether you restrain your appetite and consume it over weeks or months, or gorge yourself in a day or two, you'll find this a literary feast, to be read with pen or highlighter in hand. It's also a bargain, since there are a dozen articles easily worth the price of the book. The Christian Imagination should not be resigned to literature classes. It deserves a place in homes that love, or want to love, great books, and long to enter worlds that lead to The World. If your imagination has gotten too wet to burn, this book is a flame-thrower.

Christ our Mediator is a much-needed correction to this culture of entitlement. It should astound us that Jesus went to hell on the cross so we'll never get what we deserve. We've grown too accustomed to grace-we need to be floored by it. C. J. Mahaney gives us a fresh look at our Lord and His cross. I was drawn closer to Jesus through this book-what higher complement could I offer?

My friend C. J. Mahaney has a passion for Jesus and his people. He lives the cross-centered life, and is therefore qualified to talk about it. Let C. J. walk you through the transforming power of the gospel. You'll be refreshed, deeply thankful for God's grace.

For years I've pointed people to John Piper's classic Desiring God, which is high on my list of all time favorite books. A year ago I told a friend that I'd love to see a "mini-Desiring God," a short but sweet version of John's message on joy and desire, which has touched so many lives, including mine. The Dangerous Duty of Delight is more than I asked for. Dynamic, joyful and lifechanging, this message is biblical, Christ-centered and desperately needed in the church today. I read the book last week and have already given away copies to family and friends.

Jim Bell has written a clever story, full of historical and scientific insights, blended with creative whimsy. The Darwin Conspiracy is ingenious and engaging."

The Debt is a powerful story, captivating and superbly written. I couldn't put it down. Angela Hunt touched my heart. When I finished, I thanked Jesus for speaking to me. That's the highest compliment I can pay any book.

In Diary of a Teenage Girl, Melody Carlson captures the voice of teens today in a character we can all relate to. This book sends the message every parent, youth pastor and wise student wants to share. The unique peer perspective makes it very effective. Integrating the crucial message of the gospel, it forces us to weigh issues. It causes us to look at a young person (in reality ourselves) objectively. It challenges, convicts, and leaves us with hope for the future. I highly recommend this book.

Carolyn McCulley has written a remarkable book, biblically-saturated and Christ-exalting. Her words are wise, encouraging, personal and much-needed. I highly recommend Did I Kiss Marriage Goodbye?

Directed Verdict is a well-crafted courtroom drama with strong characters, surprising twists, and a compelling theme: international accountability for religious persecution. Randy Singer's novel is engaging, memorable, and highly significant.

Do Hard Things is an extraordinary book. In fact, I believe it will prove to be one of the most life-changing, family-changing, church-changing and culture-changing books of this generation.

I know and respect the authors and their family. Alex and Brett Harris are the real deal, Christ-centered young men of character and vision, committed to serving Jesus with humility and excellence. In this God-anointed book, they communicate an exciting and paradigm-shifting vision for teenagers, emphasizing joyful self-discipline, collaboration and service.

This sounds more radical than it should because we've failed our young people by lowering our expectations and enabling them to lower theirs. But raising expectations and following Christ wholeheartedly is a refreshing and long-overdue message countless teenagers are longing for and will gladly embrace. As a volunteer high school coach, I spend lots of time with teenagers and I plan to give them Do Hard Things.

I read countless books but this is one of the most unique, defining and important ones I've ever seen. It is paradigm-shifting, revolutionary, liberating and hope-instilling. Not only the insights and principles, but the stories of young people cheerfully doing hard things will capture your imagination. While I'd love for every teenager to read Do Hard Things, I'm just as eager for every parent, church leader and educator to read it.

God spoke to me and encouraged and challenged me through Do Hard Things. If you do the hard thing of saying no to distractions and yes to this remarkable book, I guarantee you'll be richly rewarded.

Robert Elmer's The Duet is a charming love story in which backgrounds and traditions clash. If you love music, nostalgia or a rural setting, this heartwarming novel is for you.

Feel is an engaging book that's potentially liberating. God made emotions and Jesus expressed them; they need to be reclaimed and redeemed, not ignored or abandoned. Matthew Elliott does a service to the church through this thoughtful work.

Straightforward, pulling no punches, Grace Matters is an absorbing account of whites and blacks living, learning, fighting and healing together. Chris Rice's story reveals the costs and payoffs of true racial reconciliation—the kind that requires more than words.

The Great Divide
by T. Davis Bunn

T. Davis Bunn kept me up past 1:00 AM two nights in a row. I don't regret the lost sleep for a moment! The Great Divide is a gripping courtroom drama, raising concerns of immense importance. It held me right to the end.

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Halfway to Forever has believable characters you care about. You'll feel their tension, heartbreak and joy. Karen Kingsbury sweeps readers right in. She really knows how to tell a story.

Catherine Palmer's The Happy Room is both a moving story and a captivating portrayal of family dynamics. This novel has the ring of truth. Read it because it's a fascinating story, but also because you'll walk away with a deeper understanding of the lasting memories of childhood, and the expectations, hurts and joys of family life.

Haunted Waters is snappy, fast-paced and fun. Jerry Jenkins and Chris Fabry have created interesting characters you'll want to spend time with. This story pulls you in, and opens a window on family relationships. To top it off, the ending is a real grabber. This is a highly enjoyable book!

My friend C. J. Mahaney tackles a subject of immense importance. Since God opposes the proud and gives grace to the humble, what could be more important than understanding and developing true humility, as a lightning rod for grace? C. J.'s book is biblical, honest and full of helpful insights. We need less egomania and more humility and servanthood in our churches today. May God use this book to remind us that "only the humble are sane."

Knowing Ed Brown as a friend and C. S. Lewis collector didn't prepare me for how much I would enjoy these inside stories. Ed's search for Lewis first editions hasn't merely turned up books, but missing pieces in Lewis's life, including relationships and events that are pleasant, surprising and enlightening. I thought I'd read nearly everything about Lewis, but this fascinating account kept me up way past midnight. Just when I wondered if it could be done, Ed Brown has brought us something about C. S. Lewis that is truly fresh, unique and engaging.

With simple elegance Ron DiCianni conveys the greatest offer ever made. Ron's art and words—extensions of his life—powerfully capture the King's startling invitation to come join him at his palace grounds for the celebration that will never end.

Compiled by Alice Gray, Dr. Steve Stephens, & John Van Diest This book offers concise, perspective—giving and soul-feeding insights. In a format that makes for quick reading, it takes us to God's Word, which has a power to change us that no other words have.

The Lost Virtue of Happiness
by J. P. Moreland and Klaus Issler

J. P. Moreland and Klaus Issler's The Lost Virtue of Happiness is a rare book. It manages to be biblical, deep, understandable, engaging and practical all at the same time. As few books are, this one is worth contemplating, discussing and putting into practice. I highly recommend it for personal and group study.

I know Ron Blue to be a man who loves Jesus and desires to serve people. Ron's wise, and he has a heart for what stirs God's heart. Readers will find much to learn and benefit from in Master Your Money.

Angie Hunt offers a refreshing collection of concise biblical guidelines, helpful hints, and personal encouragement for parents desiring to safely usher their children through the tween years. With children now in college, I found myself nodding my head in agreement again and again. Angie approaches parenting with a perfect blend of seriousness and lightheartedness. Sometimes we-and our children-need more of each. Jump into this fast-paced book—you'll enjoy it.

Angie Hunt has done it again. The Novelist is unique. Innovative. Touching. Thought-provoking. Behold characters breathed into life by The Novelist...and gain a rich perspective on your own story.

Calvin Miller baptized my imagination when, as a young Christian, I read his Singer trilogy. Once Upon a Tree is poetic craftsmanship infused with grace. Miller opens the window. Breathe deeply. He shines the light on Jesus. Open wide your eyes.

The Peacemaker:
A Biblical Guide to Resolving Personal Conflict
by Ken Sande

The Peacemaker, Student Edition, is engaging, concise, practical and biblically on-target. Ken Sande and Kevin Johnson have done a marvelous job with this book. It has life-changing and freedom-giving potential for young and old alike. I highly recommend it, as I do PeaceMaker Ministries.

Kathy Herman has done it again. Poor Mrs. Rigsby is a well-written novel, with a unique and compelling storyline that keeps you guessing. With honesty and realism, the story powerfully illustrates the words of Jesus, "You cannot serve both God and money."

The Promise Remains is a heart-tugging tale of the longing, struggles, and commitment of young love. Ultimately, it's also a story of the gracious providence of God. I welcome this enjoyable first novel by Travis Thrasher and am delighted to recommend it."

A craftsman skilled with words, Mark Buchanan has written a penetrating book with an easy contemplative tone. This is enjoyable reading about something precious most of us have lost, and some of us have never known. I needed to sit back, relax and savor this heart-moving thought-provoking book. I suspect you do too.

Rich In Every Way: Everything God
Says About Money And Possessions
by Dr. Gene Getz

Years after I wrote Money, Possessions & Eternity, Gene Getz sent me the original version of his biblical theology of money. Reading it cover to cover, I felt a close kinship with the author, realizing we had independently come to many of the same conclusions. When I revised my book in 2002 I included a number of citations from Dr. Getz. I'm thrilled to learn he's now revised his own work. His biblical research is thoughtful, insightful and provocative. He deals with Scripture itself, which has a power no man's words can equal. A veteran pastor and teacher with integrity and a vision for churches and leaders, Dr. Getz unearths from the Bible challenging perspectives vitally needed by today's church. Students of God's Word will welcome Dr. Getz's careful and Christ-honoring work on this critical subject.

Travis Thrasher's thought-provoking story will cause you to take a fresh look at the second chances we get every day. The Second Thief is well-written, moving, and full of perspective.

Jerry Jenkins writes from his heart a unique and engaging story. Riven is touching and unforgettable.

Reading Secrets from the Treadmill did for me what the book encourages—it made me relax and reflect. I learned years ago that I have to say no to the great majority of things I'm asked to do, so I'm available to say yes to those few God wants me to do. But I need to relearn that lesson periodically, and Pete Briscoe and Patty Hickman helped me do that. Jesus calls upon us to carry our crosses, yet paradoxically promises a light burden and rest for our souls. If the burden's usually heavy and our souls aren't at rest...we're missing something. This book will help you find what you're missing.

Nancy Leigh DeMoss and Tim Grissom have produced a magnificent interactive study for those who want to go deeper with God, and experience Christ's grace and empowerment in every area of their lives. Seeking Him will help you examine yourself in light of Scripture. It will take you to God's throne, where you'll realize He alone can meet your deepest needs, and He alone is worthy of your worship. I highly recommend this work.

Sex is a wonderful gift from God; but it makes a terrible idol, brutal and unyielding in the misery it inflicts. These authors are a breath of fresh air, because unlike our culture's self-proclaimed sexperts, they respect biblical authority and warmly embrace the Lordship of Christ. Hence, they can lift up the torch of divine truth and expose the enemy's lies about sex that have penetrated not only the darkest corners of our culture, but of our churches. I pray Sex and the Supremacy of Christ will demonstrate to readers that Christ being Lord of all means that He must be Lord of all we think, say and do about sex...and that in His lordship we will find deliverance and joy.

We have been entrusted with a message of incalculable value. Since it's the most worthy message in the universe and we—inadequate though we be—are the chosen message-bearers, we should eagerly learn to convey it more effectively. Wentworth Pike has written an interesting and highly practical guide to communicating God's truth. Sharing the Bread of Life is simple, well-written, helpful and Christ-honoring. I am glad to recommend it.

In The Shepherd's Voice, Robin Lee Hatcher entertains us with interesting characters and a moving story line. Along the way she skillfully leads us into a deeper awareness of God's providence, guidance and love.

Slumber of Christianity: Awakening a Passion for Heaven on Earth
by Ted Dekker

Ted Dekker writes with passion and insight...Listen to his wake-up call. Rise up from slumber...Then feel your heart flutter. Watch your perspective change. You'll never regret the world you'll wake up to-not in a billion years.

Splitting Heirs: Giving an Inheritance to Your Children Without Ruining Their Lives
by Ronald Blue

Inheritance is risky business, often damaging lives, marriages and children. Few of us bring an eternal perspective to leaving money behind or to handling unearned wealth. But God has entrusted us with His assets and we need to consider how best to invest them in eternity. Ron Blue sets our sights high, offering biblical and practical insights on a vital subject. Ron has written some fine books, but none more important or timely than this one.

Rene Gutteridge is a fine writer who skillfully tells this story, driven by interesting characters and an intriguing plot. Splitting Storm is a page-turner—it really held my interest.

Total Abandon is penetrating, honest and touching. It captures a passion for following Jesus. Bonnie Witherall's martyrdom has touched many, but this book is about much more than her death. It's a powerful story of God calling His people to serve, suffer, trust and find joy and purpose. May the story of Gary and Bonnie Witherall challenge, deepen and rekindle the fire of first love.

Perceptive and wise, Jennifer Rothschild writes from the heart, with warmth and sensitivity. Reading When Nothing Else Will Do, I felt like I was sitting across the table from her. Jennifer loves Jesus and will help you love Him too.

The Travels of Messenger
by Ron, Grant, & Warren Dicianni

Five inspiring stories woven into one, The Travels of Messenger is really the story of a faithful God who calls and empowers his children. With freshness, simplicity and passion, the DiCiannis familiarize us with heroes of the faith whose footsteps we can follow.

Clear without being superficial. Relevant without being lightweight. This study isn't cutsie relevant, it's solid relevant. It's full of straightforward good theology that students can really chew on. My friends Steve Keels and Dan Vorm skillfully communicate God's life-changing truth in this excellent book. I highly recommend it.

Dennis and Barbara Rainey's powerful work with marriages begins with their own. They've prayed together daily for many years. Prayer is drawing strength from Almighty God. Every marriage needs this strength, which is why every couple will benefit from this book. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

In Unspoken you'll meet my girl Sema, one of the most unforgettable characters I've ever encountered. She will touch your heart and expand the horizons of your mind. As for Angie Hunt...well, she's a stinky nut. To appreciate that complement, you'll have to read this captivating book!

As a new Christian, a teenager, in 1969 I read Foxe’s Book of Martyrs. Those powerful stories ignited me, raised the bar of my commitment to Christ, and gave me a love for persecuted Christians. I pray this wonderful book from Voice of the Martyrs will do the same for countless readers. Hebrews 11 is still being written throughout the world—may we learn from those stories. And, empowered by Christ, may we live in such a way that our own stories might one day be worth telling.

My friend Dave Harvey has written a wonderful book. When Sinners Say I Do is honest, refreshing, practical, and above all biblical. These carefully written pages spill over with truth and grace. This book is liberating, Christ-centered and hope-filled, pointing the way to God-empowered marriage. I’m delighted to recommend it.

Authentic, compelling and skillfully plotted, Winner Take All is a top notch legal drama. Davis Bunn has done it again!

"C. S. Lewis said 'Aslan is not a tame lion,' and Mark Buchanan shows us what that means. The undemanding God-in-the-bottle genie who exists to serve us is a modern heresy. It's the God of the Bible who calls the shots. We are servants of a fierce King, who is gracious, but never manageable. Your God is too Safe reminds us what it means that Jesus is God—and we're not! Dangerous faith in our untamed Savior leads us to the joy we crave. The breath of life rises off the pages of this book.

My heart was touched by You're Not Alone. Though I've talked with, cried with, and written about women who've had abortions, I found Jennifer O'Neill's story and insights to be fresh and compelling, a lifeline to those longing for hope and release (and those around them who need to understand). This book gently opens a window to what's usually shrouded in darkness. The light that shines through is the grace of Jesus. Jennifer O'Neill portrays God as a compassionate healer, the divine Father and Husband who offers forgiveness to every woman who has suffered from abortion. I highly recommend this book.

Worship Matters: Leading Others to Encounter the Greatness of God
by Bob Kauflin

Bob Kauflin has written an amazingly rich and wise book on worship. It is biblical, Christ-honoring, relevant, practical, enjoyable and everything else I could have asked for. It's full of tested insights, coming out of the author's disciplined contemplation and long experience as a leader among worship leaders. I know and respect Bob, and have thoroughly enjoyed following his lead in worshipping our Lord. Bob lives what he writes, so his emphasis on character, integrity and humility has credibility. I enthusiastically recommend this book to all who wish to cultivate in our churches deeper and more Christ-centered worship.

Worldliness: Resisting the Seduction of a Fallen World
Foreword by John Piper
Contributors Bob Kauflin, Jeff Purswell,
Craig Cabaniss
Edited by C. J. Mahaney

C. J. Mahaney and friends, men I trust, have written an excellent treatment of a vital and recently neglected subject. The difference between the world and the church is eroding at an alarming rate, and we need help with holiness. This book is biblically grounded and Christ-centered, full of grace and truth. Every chapter raises the bar of Christian living without falling into legalism. Worldliness is one of the most timely and much-needed books I've read in years. I highly recommend it.