I started reading most of these books over the summer.  But unexpected blessings of travel, family gatherings, and delightful days puttering in the garden pushed reading to the side.  In a relatively dry stretch of months, rainy days to curl up with a good book were very rare.  Thus, I adjusted the title for this post: summer (into fall) reading!

I hope a few thoughts about each of these books might help others find some good reading for themselves – words that challenge our thinking, strengthen our understanding of GOD’s character and unique ways of carrying out His purposes, and embolden our hearts in the security of His love and care for us.

Joyful Surrender by Elizabeth Elliot (Revell Books, 2019)

The suggested reading during summer break from our small group Bible study, working our way through Nancy Wolgemuth’s book, Surrender: The Heart GOD Controls, I was eager to pull this one off my shelf and read it again! 

Originally published under the title, Discipline, Elizabeth Elliot conveys a beautiful message about the life of a disciple of Christ, one that is fully surrendered to His authority, unreservedly available to Him, to be used when and how He chooses.  

I wrote a review of this book for Revell Books, when it was re-released under its new title in 2019 (https://coverofHisPresence.com/2019/04/15/set-free/).  Before our little study group reconvened in September, I shared excerpts that really touched me as I re-read Elizabeth’s thoughts alongside our surrender study (https://coverofHisPresence.com/2025/07/25/surrender-study-summer-reading-joyful-surrender-by-elizabeth-elliot/).  

Elizabeth Elliot does not pull punches.  She is a straight shooter.  Be prepared to be challenged, but also mightily encouraged!

 

Nature of Rest: What the Bible and Creation Teach Us About Sabbath Living, by Eryn Lynum(Kregel Publications, 2025)

I have always been captivated by the beauty and wonder of GOD’s creation.  So, it was no surprise to me that I was amazed and touched by Eryn’s insights so beautifully presented in Nature of Rest.  As an expert naturalist, she weaves details about a variety of birds and animals into a 6-week Bible study, offering unique perspectives about GOD’s plan to provide rest for His created ones.  

On my morning runs, I always stand amazed, bearing witness of GOD’s majesty in creation.  A deep breath of fresh air, a scan of the sky, the powerful quiet of untouched land – these all speak peace to my soul.  After reading Eryn’s book, I now treasure an even deeper sense of the rest He designed for each of us and look for opportunities to weave moments of rest and renewal into my days more regularly.

Eryn’s perspective is training my own eyes to be on the lookout for the countless ways GOD’s creatures display the truth and wonder of who He is as our Creator and Provider.

 

Restored by Meshali Mitchell (Revell Books, 2025)

Who doesn’t love a great “before and after”?  Having recently renovated our own beloved #1915reno in coastal New England, I was drawn into Meshali’s labor of love in bringing her own little home in Texas back to life.  It was so touching to read the history behind her purchase of that property and the soul-healing journey that has unfolded since.  As she rebuilt walls and spaces, the LORD reached deep within to rebuild her heart.  

As a professional photographer, Meshali is already known for capturing beauty.  Her portrait stills are breathtaking!  Her story in Restored is real and raw and laced with hope in the One who restores us and makes us new again.  Despite the dust and hurdles of brokenness, she teaches us how to capture the Light!

 

Loved to Life by Ann Voskamp (Tyndale, 2025)

I have lingered for months over this beautifully detailed walk through the gospel of John!  I suppose we shouldn’t have favorites, but I have always been deeply touched by John’s telling of the story of JESUS.  Ann Voskamp brought these pages to life again for me in fresh and tender ways.  

Although intended to serve as a daily devotional reading through the weeks leading up to Resurrection Sunday, I have needed several days or weeks to fully process each of Ann’s chapter-by-chapter insights.  They are rich.  They are deep.  Her heart’s response to our Savior and her prayer that each of her readers will be Loved to Life by Him is truly precious – – and worth another read! 

Upon Waking by Jackie Hill Perry (B&H Publishing, 2023)

I have kept this book handy, on the table right beside my writing desk for two years.  I have a sneaking suspicion it will be a permanent fixture!  I reach for it often and trust the LORD to use each next entry to speak to my heart.  

Jackie dedicated this book to those who encouraged her to give GOD her first “hello.”  It is a 60-day devotional, providing a scripture reference and accompanying thoughts with which to begin each day.  She challenges me.  She doesn’t dance around the truth.  She offers fresh perspective that holds GOD and His ways far and above anyone or anything else.  In reference to any other battle for her attention or affections, she says, “I simply love GOD more.”

 I have shared snippets from Upon Waking with loved ones countless times.  Jackie’s words are timely, poignant, and always draw me closer to the LORD, with a deeper hunger to fully know Him and live in a way that honors Him – for He alone is worthy!