While I wasn’t able to read as much as I wanted this past year, I was able to dive into some great books that really helped me. From leadership wisdom to church growth strategies, these reads challenged, encouraged, and inspired me deeply. Here are five of my favorites that I’m excited to share with you.
1. Think Ahead: 7 Decisions You Can Make Today for the God-Honoring Life You Want Tomorrow
by Craig Groeschel
Craig Groeschel nails it with this one. In Think Ahead, he walks us through decisions that aren’t just practical but spiritual game-changers. It’s all about being intentional now for the life you want later. One of my biggest takeaways was how he ties everyday decisions to eternal impact. Craig doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges of sticking to God’s plan, but he gives you hope—and a roadmap—to stay the course.
For anyone feeling the tension between instant gratification and long-term obedience, this book is pure gold.
2. High Road Leadership: Bringing People Together in a World That Divides
by John C. Maxwell
This one hit me hard—because let’s face it, we’re living in a divided world. John Maxwell dives straight into how leaders can rise above the chaos and lead with integrity and grace. What I loved most was his emphasis on unity, even when it feels impossible. He uses biblical principles to remind us that leadership isn’t about picking sides; it’s about bringing people together under a greater purpose.
If you’re navigating division in your church, workplace, or even your family, High Road Leadership will give you practical tools to do it well.
3. Stronger Together: Seven Partnership Virtues and the Vices That Subvert Them
by (Exponential Series)
Partnerships in ministry can be tricky—so many moving parts, so many personalities. That’s where this book comes in. Written by a team of authors, Stronger Together digs into seven virtues that help leaders build healthy, effective teams. But they don’t stop there—they also call out the vices that sneak in and derail even the best partnerships. I found the discussions on trust and humility especially convicting.
If you’re part of a leadership team, this book will help you strengthen those relationships for greater impact.
4. The D.R.E.A.M. Church: Five Proven Strategies for Growing a Healthy, Disciple-Making Church
by Brian Moss
Okay, let me just say—this book lives up to its title. Brian Moss takes a no-fluff approach to sharing five practical strategies for church growth, all rooted in biblical principles. What I appreciated most is that it’s not just about numbers; it’s about creating a healthy church. His “D.R.E.A.M.” framework is simple, memorable, and doable. I’m already seeing how some of these strategies are making a difference in our ministry.
If you’re passionate about discipleship and growth, you’ll want to grab this one.
5. Revival: When God Comes to Church
by Steve Gaines
Let me tell you—this book stirred something deep in my soul. Steve Gaines explores the history of revivals and challenges today’s churches to prepare for a fresh move of God. He doesn’t just talk about revival as a concept; he shares practical ways to foster spiritual renewal in your congregation. One chapter that stood out was about creating a culture of prayer. It reminded me that revival isn’t something we can manufacture—it’s something we prepare for and welcome when God moves.
This book is a must-read for anyone longing to see God transform their church and community.
Some Final Thoughts
These books didn’t just teach me new strategies or ideas; they reminded me why I’m passionate about ministry in the first place. Whether you’re a pastor, leader, or simply someone looking to grow spiritually, I hope these titles inspire you as much as they inspired me.
If you’ve read any of these—or decide to pick one up—I’d love to hear your thoughts! Let’s keep growing, dreaming, and preparing for all that God wants to do through us.
