If you read my newsletter last month, you may have seen that I have decided to do the 2023 Goodreads challenge! Anyone else? You might also remember that last year I shared a few of the books that I wanted to read in 2022, which you can find here. As it’s the start of another new year, it always seems a very good time to dig out some of the books that I’ve got that I have been meaning to read, or even a few newer books that I’ve got that are on my to-read pile.
I’ve already started off the year with some books that I have read. One book that I recently read, What Cannot Be Lost by Melissa Zaldivar, you can read my review here. Another book which I have finished reading is called Beneath The Tamarisk Tree by Rob Seabrook. You can also read my review for it here.
I would love to know what book you are currently reading? Let me know in the comments! Plus if you are looking for a new book to read, or perhaps a new devotional book, in one of my latest blog posts, which you can find here, I’ve listed 4 daily devotional recommendations for this new year.
So without further ado, here are 5 books I want to read in 2023. I’ve also included links in case you would like to read these books too!
Stand In Confidence by Amanda Pittman
This book is a more recent one which I have added to my book collection. I actually came across this beautiful book in one of Kirby Kelly’s Instagram stories. She was recommending a few Christian books. I really loved the description of this one:
“Culture, church, and life have sold us narratives about who we’re supposed to be as women. If we play the part well, we gain love, acceptance, validation, and significance. When we don’t know which role to play from one day to the next, we sink in insecurity. We feel driven to people-please, downplay, settle, and perform. In all this, we accept less than the abundant life Jesus died to give us.
Amanda Pittman, founder of Confident Woman Co., explains how we can rewrite our damaging self-beliefs with the truth about our God-given identity by establishing the Four Components of Confidence:
- Clarity—Embrace our identity and define our design
- Connection—Connect with God and connect with others
- Competency—Develop our ability and expand our capacity
- Conviction—Know our responsibility and use our authority
With a new perspective and focus, we will stand confidently upon the finished work of Jesus and live boldly in our Christ-given callings.” Stand In Confidence by Amanda Pittman.
You can purchase a copy of Stand In Confidence here.
Did you know that I have a monthly newsletter called Little Notes of Light?
Little Notes of Light will bring inspiration, reflection and encouragement straight to your inbox each month. To subscribe, scroll down to the bottom of this page, or you can sign up by clicking here.
Fighting Forward by Hannah Brencher
This book has been in my to-read pile for quite some time now. It’s one of my husband’s books that he’s read, which he has given to me to read. I have read one of Hannah’s other books that she has written, which I really enjoyed called Come Matter Here. Highly recommend checking it out.
“At the darkest point of a life-altering depression, Hannah Brencher took a silver marker and labelled a composition book “Fight Song.” In that little notebook, she poured hope-filled truths and affirmations, knowing that one day, she–and you–would need a reminder to stay in the fight. Drawn from those glow-in-the-dark words, Fighting Forward is your empowering invitation to show up, claim hope, and take back your life one small win at a time.” Fighting Forward by Hannah Brencher.
You can purchase a copy of Fighting Forward here. (This book currently has over 50% off!)
The Fitting Room by Kelly Minter
This book is one that I’ve also had quite a while now, which I got from a Christian bookshop. It’s a beautifully presented book. I think what drew me to it was the front cover, especially the words putting on the character of Christ (and the description of the book on the back too obviously!) I also really liked what this book is called, The Fitting Room.
“Colossians 3:12 tells us to “clothe” ourselves in Christian virtues like forgiveness, joy, patience, compassion. But how does that work in real life? Can we really “dress up” in the character of Christ? Kelly Minter says the answer is yes—if we let the Master Designer do the fitting. This relatable book offers insightful Scripture study with real-life stories and simple down-to-earth explanations of tricky concepts as justification and sanctification—stitching it all together with dry humour and down-to-earth honesty. There are no gimmicks, no guilt trips, just an irresistible invitation for women to enjoy a spiritual makeover—to put on a life that’s personally tailored by the One who knows and loves them best.” The Fitting Room by Kelly Minter.
You can purchase a copy of The Fitting Room here.
Cultivate by Lara Casey
Again, this is one of my husband’s books, which he very kindly gave me to read recently. I must admit, I really do love the cover of this book. Obviously it’s the words inside the book that matters, but I do love a beautiful book cover! Plus the words under the title of this book grabbed my attention: A grace-Filled Guide to Growing an Intentional Life.
“Welcome to the journey of getting messy in the rich soil of possibility–embracing imperfect, grace-filled progress to grow a life of joy.
Written as part encouragement anthem and part practical guide, Cultivate equips women to uncover and take action on goals that simplify life. Lara’s signature “goal gardening” steps release them from the pressure to achieve and gives them freedom to move from planning to planting. Readers will walk through each season, finding balance as they interact in fresh ways with their current life scenarios, with God, and in the communities where they are planted. “You don’t have to be perfect; you just have to plant! As you open this book, you are making a decision to leave the dry soil behind. You will lean in . . . and unrush your life. And in the process you will unearth your purpose.” Cultivate by Lara Casey.
You can purchase a copy of Cultivate by Lara Casey here.
Living Courageously by Joyce Meyer
Another book that has been on my to-read pile for quite some time is Living Courageously by Joyce Meyer. I have another of her books called Battlefield of the Mind, which I found to be very helpful.
“Everyone who has ever lived has known the torment of fear. Fear will try to push you back and is always ready to attack you through your thoughts. But you can live free from it! God’s promise is that you will be able to overcome this powerful emotion.
In this book, Joyce Meyer shows that even though fear will surely challenge you, the Holy Spirit can still help you walk in faith.” Living Courageously by Joyce Meyer.
This book also contains lots of scripture throughout.
You can purchase a copy of Living Courageously here. (This book is also currently on offer with almost 50% off!)
[This blog post contains affiliate links]
Have you read any of these books? I would love to know!
If you have enjoyed this post and any of my other content, you can support my work and future content by buying me a virtual coffee. For as little as £2, this helps to support all that I do, and so I can keep creating content on my website, social media channels, newsletter and more. Your support means so much to me.
Pin this post
