I read books like some people drink coffee.
Okay, maybe that’s a stretch, but reading is one of my favorite hobbies.
![]() |
Source |
Several years ago, I determined to make reading more than just a fun pastime. I wanted to use books to gain knowledge and grow in every area of my life.
I like a reading challenge and enjoyed most of the books that I read from my 2014 reading list.
However, I discovered that making a list in January for the rest of the year doesn’t take into account new books I will discover or a change in my interests as the year progresses. Therefore I decided to take a new approach to reading in 2015.
Every month I will read one book in each of four categories.
- A book that will help me grow spiritually
- A book that will strengthen my marriage
- A book that will help me be a better parent
- A book to develop me personally
I will try to list the four books I’ve selected before each month begins. I’ll certainly read other books, too, and will post about them in my end-of-the-month update as well.
Here are the books I’ve selected for January.
Spiritual: If God Is Good by Randy Alcorn
Marriage: Now You’re Speaking My Language by Gary Chapman
Parenting: Give Them Grace: Dazzling Your Kids with the Love of Jesus by Elyse M. Fitzpatrick and Jessica Thompson
Personal Growth: Today Matters: 12 Daily Practices to Guarantee Tomorrow’s Success by John Maxwell
At the end of January, I’ll let you know if I finished those books during the month and I’ll share reviews of my favorite reads.
What are you reading now?
What a great idea! I try to keep my lists short so there's room for other books to be added and read, but I like your idea!
I'm going to have to check out Chapman's book; I enjoyed his Love Languages book, and this one sounds similar.
If you get Alcorn's book read in a month, you'll be amazing! I think it took me two months! It's sooo long but sooo worth it!
Yes – I should have remembered from reading Heaven that he writes long books! 🙂 I'm about 30% of the way through, so we'll see if I can keep it up.