Matthew and I recently traded office spaces and quite honestly the biggest task involved for me was packing and reorganizing my library (thanks Mike Parrish for moving all the boxes and furniture!) This gave me the opportunity to again leaf through and hit highlights from some of my favorites (which considerably slowed the packing process!)
Fortunately I’m not limited to one author, but if I had to pick the one that I think I have benefited the most consistently from Jerry Bridges would almost instantly rise to the top of the list. He writes about rich eternal truths that impact practical realities but always does so in a down to earth and easily accessible manner (which is what enables me to benefit!)
Three of his books that I have been most helpful over the years:
Transforming Grace - This one was initially lent to me by a friend 13 years ago and really opened up my understanding of grace. The chapter on the generous landowner in particular turned me inside out and is still one I revisit from time to time.
The Discipline of Grace - I read this one for the first time while at the Pastors College in 1998. Combined with Mr. Bridges teaching of that PC class this book gave me a framework for God’s part and my part in both my standing before Him and my growth in being like Him. The first 3 chapters alone are life altering - I’ve reread (and highlighted!) this book more than any other.
Trusting God - I think this was also a Pastors College read, but whenever it was I’m not sure that there has been a more influential book for me regarding God’s sovereignty and His care for His people in suffering than this one. The reality of God’s character in 1) Sovereignty, 2) Goodness, and 3) Wisdom has provided me a structure that has served me in many difficult circumstances (both my own and caring for others) and I’m simply not sure I would have the same clarity and handles apart from this resource.
I have certainly benefited from other of his works, but these stand out from my vantage point. I have another small one, “The Bookends of the Christian Life”, sitting on my “next books” pile that I may be telling you about soon as well…
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