I know. You're looking at book titles and you're wondering which mind altering drug I was on to ask you to read something when you don't have to. Indulge me. There's nothing better than a good spiritual book to push you in the right direction. It's like having your own conference or revival speaker talking just to you. I can't tell you how many times God has used a book to convict me, challenge me, open new doors of understanding, or just remind me of how much He loves me. But if you're not a book person getting started can be, well, tough. So I've made this as painless as possible. Here are a few books I know you'll enjoy. They're easy to read but filled with great insight. Try a few out and find an author you gel with. If you like one of their books, read more!

In the Grip of Grace by Max Lucado If you’ve never read Christian books before, Lucado is a great place to start.  I was in college when I was first introduced to Lucado and I quickly devoured many of his books and developed an appetite for Christian literature.  This is a standout among his many books but it’s a great way not only to learn some important truths, but also figure out that books aren’t nearly as scary as you might think.  If you feel a little daunted by some of the other books on the site, start here.  I did.  And everyone starts somewhere.

Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster This is a must read for all Christians.  I know the title sounds awful, but you’ll be surprised once you get into it.  Foster shows us that the disciplines of the Christian life are not dull rules but actually are the pathways to real joy and abundant life.  The other great thing about Foster is that he takes hard concepts and makes them easily readable.  I found myself trying disciplines I had avoided because he makes them so accessible to normal people.  READ THIS BOOK!

The Jesus I Never Knew by Philip Yancey If I asked you to imagine Jesus, we’d all come up with a mental image.  In this book, Yancey challenges us to think beyond what we assume Jesus to be like and to read the gospels with fresh eyes.  He shines light on areas of Christ’s life that often go unnoticed or ignored.  You will find that Jesus is much more intriguing and surprising than we give him credit for.  This will definitely spur you on in your faith.

Rumors of Another World by Philip Yancey After The Great Divorce I’ve always had a fascination with the subject of Heaven.  In one of his best Yancey points us to everyday situations that point decisively toward a reality beyond our humdrum physical world.  You’ll quickly discover that life makes much more sense and better decisions can be made when we begin to focus on the heavenly reality that lies just beyond our vision.

God is Closer Than You Think by John Ortberg John Ortberg is becoming one of my new favorites. He has this great knack for blending keen theological insight with a very easy to read, everyday style. This is his latest book which deals with how to develop a personal walk with God. It will also be a great introduction to a gifted and thoughtful writer. If you like this one, check out his others too.