I have recently purchased and ordered a few new books to read. I am really excited about these books and I know they will offer lots of Biblical guidance in my life...especially in the areas that I see weakness and a great need to allow God's grace to make me be a more godly woman. I really want that in my life. I want to be equipped to know how to live godly, put off sin, and have true joy that comes only from the Lord. I have often found joy in many things other than Christ...which I guess that can be more accurately described as temporary happiness based on situations. I look too often to the things of this world to make me *happy*. Sometimes, I put too much emphasis on earthly relationships, which are good relationships and we need to do that...but not in a way that moves God to a secondary position. I struggle with that...do you? Sometimes, I think I love my husband so much...and my children,too...that I think I could not live without them. Am I allowing those things to be idols of my heart? Or do I find my true complete joy and satisfaction in Christ alone...am I truly treasuring Him above all and finding Him to be desired above everything else that can fill my life. Even good things can take the place of God. I must say, sadly, that I do allow some of those other things to take the place of God at times. I must be aware of those weaknesses and be repenting of those sins of idolatry.

Have you ever asked yourself, "What are a few of my favorite things?" Or do you even need to ask? I just look at my life...how I choose to spend my time...my desires...my joys...my perceived *needs*. Do any of these things replace the desire for Christ and His Word? I really need good doctrinally sound books in my life to spur me on...as well as strong biblical preaching and teaching from my church...together these things help equip me. I don't want to be without either. Thankfully God's grace has allowed us to be in a church where we are continuously fed His Word and are challenged spiritually...in so many ways! It is a blessing!

Here is a list of my new books:

Practicing Hospitality by Pat Ennis and Lisa Tatlock
Precious in His Sight by Pat Ennis
Respectable Sins by Jerry Bridges
Designing a Lifestyle That Pleases God by Pat Ennis and Lisa Tatlock
Becoming a Woman Who Pleases God by Pat Ennis and Lisa Tatlock (I am borrowing this one from a friend, but have it ordered.)
Helper By Design by Elyse Fitzpatrick
Do Hard Things by Brett and Alex Harris(should be sent out later in April)

I will probably be taking my time reading these...because I need to allow such good helpful information to sink in...but, I will be posting on some things that really hit home with me as I read. I think the Jerry Bridges book is going to be a big ouchy! I may have to read it first.