As you know, 2008 was a year for me to write. Between Lost and Found (releases February 1), Blemished (releases March 1), numerous articles, and various other projects, I've spent plenty of time in front of the computer this year. I am grateful for the opportunities that God has provided and I certainly recognize that He is blessing me much more than I deserve. I truly enjoy writing and consider it an important discipline in the ministry that God has called me to. However, I must confess that I don't always enjoy the process of writing as much as I do the purpose behind writing. The purpose is obvious - to convey a message that I'm passionate about. The process, on the other hand, doesn't always bring such warm, fuzzy feelings to mind.
When I used to dream of writing, I thought about myself in a quiet cabin in the woods weeping over my computer as the outpouring of God's message worked through my fingers. And while I've been fortunate to have some really cool "God moments" while writing, the entire process doesn't always feel so inspiring. For some reason, my aspirations never included deadlines, word counts, marketing campaigns, and galley edits. But, those are important facets in the process and I am really appreciative of the amazing team of folks that have helped me wade through these "new waters." I couldn't have done it without them.
And while writing has given me so much joy this year, I must also admit that it caused me something I'm not proud of. Quite simply, I DIDN'T READ ENOUGH IN 2008. I love books and I love to read, but it is something that takes commitment for me. I don't naturally default back to a book for leisure like some do. Instead, I read to be challenged and inspired. Unfortunately, this year I spent more time talking than I did listening. Don't get me wrong, I do believe that God desires for me to do both. But, this year I lost balance. Thus, I am hereby proclaiming 2009 as "A Year To Read." Who knows if God will bring more writing opportunities in the year ahead. I'm not in control of that. But, one thing I can control is my dedication to learning from others and sharpening my mind by reading.
So, I'd like your help. I want you to help me make a list of books to read this year. Nothing is off limits for suggestion. I'm open to leadership books, fiction books, non-fiction books, history books, autobiographies, theology books, or anything else. If it fits somewhere between Spurgeon and the Harry Potter series, then it is up for consideration. But, here's the point - I can't read what I don't know about. So, get started! I need your help! Don't worry about the possibility of me having already read it. Maybe I have and maybe I haven't. Give me your "Must Read" books below. Thanks in advance!






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