There’s something about discovering a great book that excites me just as much as reading one myself.
To make your holiday season a bit brighter, I reached out to women in leadership to ask them about the books and resources that have had the most impact on them this year.
Consider this your “2024 in Books and Resources” gift guide—one that’s already inspired me to add a few titles to my Christmas wish list.
Books
One With My Lord: The Life Changing Reality of Being In Christ by Sam Allberry
This book is a must-read for every Christian. Allberry invites readers to reflect deeply on their union with Christ, reminding us that understanding this spiritual bond shapes every part of our lives. It provides the strength to stand firm in the face of life’s pressures, urging us to find our greatest fulfillment in Christ rather than in our own fleeting desires. – Rosie Tenni
You’re Only Human: How Your Limits Reflect God’s Design and Why That’s Good News by Kelly M. Kapic
In a world obsessed with achievement and performance, this book is a refreshing read. It is deeply biblical and traces historical philosophical thought to challenge our notions of our human limitations and who God has made us to be. – Jess Prins
Authentic Ministry: Serving from the Heart by Michael Reeves
This excellent book is written primarily for graduating theological students entering into vocational ministry and I’d certainly recommend we get it into their hands. What I didn’t expect, after decades of being in ministry, was how much I needed this book! Gospel-centred, practical, confronting and encouraging, this book helps us look deeper than skills and programs (as important as these can be) and examine our hearts and fuel our joy in being united with Christ and serving Him. I will be coming back to this book again and again to recalibrate and nourish my heart. – Anne Eckermann
Biblical Critical Theory: How the Bible’s Unfolding Story Makes Sense of Modern Life and Culture by Christopher Watkin
“It’s not for the faint-hearted but wow….it was soooo good.” For those navigating the intersection of theology and culture, this book is a rich resource. Such helpful insights for ministry leaders who are teaching the timeless truths of the Bible to people who are steeped in culture. – Jess Prins
Priscilla, Where Are You? A Call to Joyful Theology by Natalie Brand
This calling is for all Christians. But this book’s specific call is to Christian women, that we may dive deeper into the joys of theology. I enjoyed this one so much I’ve just bought multiple copies to give to some of the young women at church. – Suellen Milham
Growth and Change: the Danger and Necessity of a Passion for Church Growth by Andrew Heard
Andrew Heard thoughtfully and biblically sets forth a case for the importance of church growth, not as a numbers game, but as a deep, biblically grounded passion. He helpfully uncovers many of the leadership ‘elephants in the room’. This book is a must-read for leaders who want to integrate disciple-making into every part of their ministry philosophy. – Jo Gibbs
Jesus, Keep Me Near the Cross edited by Nancy Guthrie
Though originally designed as an Easter devotional, this collection of meditations on Christ’s sacrifice is perfect for any time of year. Featuring reflections from classic and contemporary theologians such as Jonathon Edwards, JI Packer and Tim Keller, it invites readers to pause, reflect, and deepen their understanding of the gospel. – Jo Gibbs
Resources
The Team Leader’s Handbook: How to Help Christians Serve Jesus Together by Dave Moore
This is essential for anyone in ministry who leads people. Full of brilliant ideas for growing ministry teams, this is an accessible read for everyone. It’s a practical, down-to-earth and personal guide to give to both current and emerging leaders. – Suellen Milham
The One Year Praying Through the Bible for Your Kids by Nancy Guthrie
This fantastic resource provides parents with the confidence, joy, and biblical guidance in praying big prayers for their kids and trusting God with their futures. – Jess Prins
Age of Opportunity: A Biblical Guide to Parenting Teens by Paul Tripp
This has been a super helpful reset for my parenting with my kids now in the teenage years. It has reminded me of the key biblical foundations and gospel priorities for parenting teens as they navigate changing hormones and mental health challenges. As the title says, the book provides hope during this key time in their lives, grounded in the one hope we have in Jesus. – Jo Gibbs
SMBC Principal’s Hour Podcast
“Post Bible college it can be hard to have deep and rich feeding from God’s Word. Featuring sermons, interviews and more, listening to this has brought me much spiritual nurturing over the years. – Jess Prins
Knowing Faith Podcast
Hosted by Jen Wilkin, Kyle Worley and JT English, this podcast is a favourite of mine. They discuss theology in an accessible yet challenging level, with some great banter thrown in. There are series in Revelation, Romans, Genesis and Exodus, the character of God and the Apostles’ Creed. It’s perfect for those times when you want to learn but don’t have the energy or time to open a theology textbook. – Jo Gibbs
These books and resources are powerful tools for women in leadership, whether you’re looking to deepen your theological understanding, strengthen your leadership skills, or find spiritual nourishment.
As the year winds down and the holidays approach, I hope you’ll find a few gems here to enrich your journey in leadership and faith.
Happy reading!