Summer represents a fantastic time to update reading lists and pick up a few great reads for vacation. Without any further delay, here is my list of the top 5 books I’ve read (so far) in 2018.
Happy Reading.
5. Hero Maker: 5 Essential Practices for Leaders to Multiply Leaders
Dave Ferguson’s practical guide to creating a culture of multiplying leaders and disciples is a fantastic read for any leader seeking to develop more leaders. A great book to read with other senior leaders or staff. The book also features an extremely helpful appendix with some great resources.
4. Strength to Weakness
Paradigm shifting book on leadership from Scott Sauls. Sauls covers eight specific vulnerabilities that leaders should embrace if they desire to grow and be more like Jesus. Sauls’s book is saturated in Gospel-realities throughout and provides many helpful application points for leaders at any stage of life. A must read.
3. The Pleasures of Reading in an Age of Distraction
Alan Jacobs is one of my favorite writers so I was eager to dive into this love-letter to good books. The book is both a helpful critique of our modern obsession with technology and the inevitable distractions that technology creates while also reminding readers about the immense enjoyment that reading brings. If reading books has become more of a chore than a delight this book will be a much-needed tonic for you.
2. Preaching That Moves People
As a Preaching Pastor in a local church, I am always looking for a good read on the art and science of preaching. I’ve devoured dozens of books on preaching over the years, but Yancey Arrington’s new book on preaching delievery stands out. This is one of the few books I have read on how to actually preach sermons and it is also the best. If you desire to preach or preach regularly this book is simply a must-read.
1. President McKinley
Full disclosure: I love biographies. I have a particular love for presidential biographies. So, I had Robert Merry’s epic work on President William McKinley on my wishlist for quite some time prior to its release. It does not disappoint. Merry has crafted the definitive biography on a lesser known, but massively important US President. It is at once a character study and a stirring narrative as McKinley’s unique leadership style and strong character are brought to the fore. It is also honest. No rose-colored glasses applied here. Merry is transparent about McKinley’s faults and failures even while openly acknowledging his admiration for his subject. Top to bottom it is the best biography I have read in years. Must-read stuff.
Develop to Deploy 