It’s once again time to clear out some space. So, I’m tackling my book collection. I’m not sure what I’m clearing the space out for – to add new or other things? What would I want instead of books? I can’t imagine. However, I will concede that fewer objects in a room seem to make it easier to breathe. And move.
Going through my bookshelves and piles of books on nightstands, tables, and desks has been an exercise of great consternation and frustration. I mean, really. How do you choose who gets to stay and who has to go? Sigh.
Some may call this decluttering. But not I. I would never, ever refer to books as clutter. Even if they have the tendency to clutter up space and rooms. They are more like friends. Partners. Connections to stories, encouragement, answers, and new ways of thinking.
Here’s what this tough and sometimes miserable “clearing out” process reminds me:
Books are my “go to.”
When I’m going through anything – good, bad, or ugly – I always begin with asking “What book can I find that will meet me in this moment?” And I always find something to read to help get me to what I want to know or feel.
So. In honor of “The Sad Purging of Some Really Good Books” project, I’d like to share a few of my favorites. Ones that get to stay. These books have had a strong influence on my life – how I think, my decisions, and how I want to live. We’ve been together for a while. They are books that will always have a home on one of my bookshelves.
I think you’d find these books to be like a good friend who shows up just when you need her. Check them out. And let me know if you invite any of them to find a home on your bookshelf!
“Present Over Perfect: Leaving Behind Frantic for a Simpler, More Soulful Way of Living” by Shauna Niequist.
Shauna is one of my very favorite authors. She reminds me that I don’t have to strive, hustle, prove, or push for perfection. Her warm and vulnerable words share her story while she invites us to live more simply and connected. “I’ve learned a new way to live, marked by grace, love, rest, and play. And it’s changing everything.”
“Every Body Matters: Strengthening Your Body to Strengthen Your Soul” by Gary Thomas.
So let me tell you. Over the years, I have read my fair share of “diet” books. Ugh. None of them come even close to comparing how THIS book changed how I think about my health, and my desire to be healthier. It brought a whole new perspective to 2 Timothy 2:20-21. It’s not a diet book. It is, instead, a book that reminds me how my health influences my spiritual and emotional growth. And THAT is motivating. “Understanding my body as an instrument of service to God, is giving me renewed motivation to take better care of it in the face of my cravings and laziness.”
“Revival Rising: Embracing His Transforming Fire” by Kim Meeder.
So many reasons to love this book – starting with her deep love for God and her gift of storytelling. A few words from the back of the book describe it so clearly: “Most of the world around us is dying without hope … But Jesus has not abandoned the souls He came to save; He wants you to make a difference! He is calling you to carry His life-giving love into places of brokenness and sorrow. Genuine revival happens when passion for God breaks through human restraint and ignites one heart after another with the flame of His love.”
“Mastering Life Before It’s Too Late: 10 Biblical Strategies for a Lifetime of Purpose” by Robert J. Morgan
This is one of the best books – if not, the best – that I’ve read on how to find and create order in my life. He reminds me to make each moment count, and how to spend it wisely, without chaos. It’s practical, Biblically based, and full of encouragement. “Here, in easy, readable segments are ten workable routines for aligning your daily agenda with God’s perfect will.”
I’d love to hear what you think of these words that are not only bound in paperback covers, but also in scripture, faith-filled encouragement and hope!
P.S. Don’t you just love this little book corner in the photo? It’s in one of our favorite bookstores – The Book House in Dinkytown-Minneapolis. ♥
This post contains affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, your cost will be the same, but I may receive a commission. I only link to books and products I personally love!
