Growing in Grace: Resources, Spring 2025, Vol. 11

Written By Karen Ristuccia

Quarterly mini book reviews for Christian leaders

Personal Discipleship:

Ann Spangler, Praying the Names of God for 52 Weeks Expanded Edition (HarperChristian Resources, 2023).

Knowing God for who he is begins with knowing his names, in other words, how he self-identifies. Spangler presents a study of God’s names that proves clear, concise, and convicting. You can spread your investigation of God’s names over 52 weeks or 52 days, but, however you do it, taking time to meditate on God’s names will expand your prayer life and deepen your Christian service.

Understanding the Times:

Timothy Keller, Center Church: Doing Balanced, Gospel-Centered Ministry in Your City (Zondervan, 2012).

Not a new title, but one worth reading (or listening to). Keller’s years of ministry in NYC are distilled to promote the growth of 21st century churches that are gospel-centered, culturally-strategic, and community-focused. If the book’s 400 pages (22 hours on Hoopla) scare you, sections of the book (such as Part IV, City Vision are available as shorter E-books.

Alan Fadling, The Unhurried Leader: The Lasting Fruit of Daily Influence (IVP, 2017).

This book is another “oldie, but goodie,” and one that I have returned to at this time of year. Spring at many schools means hurry and stress—with the pressure of a few months left for testing, for presenting end-of-the-year productions, for achieving goals, for admissions, and for hiring for the next year. What would it mean to be an “unhurried leader”? Lack of hurry is one aspect of the Sabbath rest to which we who love Jesus aspire.

Christian Leadership:

Diana Lynn Severance, Her Story: 366 Devotions from 21 Centuries of the Christian Church, Focus for Women (Christian Focus, 2016).

Written for a year’s study (even with an extra day for Leap Year), this chronological introduction to women in church history is easy to read, informative, and inspiring. Through the centuries, Christian women have boldly proclaimed and lived out their faith. The impact of this commitment is still felt throughout the world. Whether read slowly or gobbled several sections at a time, this book allows readers to meet some sisters whose lives and ministries are worth knowing about and emulating.