A Few Quarantine Faves
The best podcasts, books, and more.
These past few months have been strange, to say the least. I’m ready to get back to more normalcy. But at the same time, I’m thankful for an opportunity to slow down. I’m thankful for more time to read, bake, take walks, and be with family—even if that means staying in our apartment or within a small radius around it.
I’m thinking through another blog post about this season because, trust me, God is teaching me a lot. He’s refining me and revealing the dirt within my heart. Phew, it’s hard, but it is good.
For now, I’m keeping things a bit lighter and sharing a few of my favorite ways to pass the time. (You know, in all the free time I have with a toddler running around 😄.)
Podcasts
“Office Ladies" - Jenna Fischer (Pam) and Angela Kinsey (Angela) take us through a behind-the-scenes look at each episode of The Office. The two friends are hilarious and insightful, and they’ll have you wanting to binge this classic show all over again.
“Risen Motherhood" - Always my go-to. As the hosts say in the intro, we need the refreshing truth of the gospel poured over us daily. Risen Motherhood helps me focus on Christ and find joy in even the most mundane parts of motherhood.
“The Dropout" - This 6-episode series reports on Elizabeth Holmes, the youngest self-made female billionaire, through her quick rise and subsequent fall as she currently faces up to 20 years in jail.
Books
Open Book - I devoured this book. Jessica Simpson tells all in her newly released memoir. I was intrigued by her personal take on all the things that happened in the public eye, and I commend her for sharing her story of sobriety.
The Alice Network - This fiction book is based on the true story of a female spy network during World War I and II. It took me much longer to read but was definitely worth it.
Afraid of All the Things - I’m currently reading this for a Zoom book club. (Three months ago, I didn’t even know what Zoom was and look where we are today!) Scarlet Hiltibidal is funny and frank. She speaks God’s Word directly into her fears and anxieties—and my own.
Finding I Am - I did Lysa TerKeurst’s Bible study on the book of John after my local women’s study ended. The study centers on the seven “I Am” statements Jesus makes in scripture. Look for a blog post on “I am the vine” coming soon.
Exalting Jesus in Revelation (Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary) - I’ve had this commentary on my bookshelf for about three years, and this month, I finally decided to go through it. So far, I’ve been blown away as I slowly read through Revelation and connect the dots to the Gospel with this remarkable book.
Fitness
Peloton - I’m in the middle of a free trial of the Peloton app, and I’m loving it. I don’t have the Peloton bike or treadmill (and I’m also so not a runner). But I’m really enjoying the yoga videos, especially because I can do a 20- or 30-minute class while my son sleeps.
Desert Streams Yoga - My mother-in-law and sisters-in-law started this Christian yoga school, and their Instagram account is full of inspirational poses and Biblical mediation. Be sure to give them a follow!
Food
Half-Baked Harvest - Teighan’s recipes sometimes have a few more interesting ingredients, but they’re always so fun to make. Her oatmeal chocolate-chip cookies are the best. I can’t wait to make her sheet pan chicken and potatoes and homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
Sally’s Baking Addiction - Baking is life right now, and my girl Sally has never let me down. Her vanilla cake and carrot cake are two of my all-time favorites. Her piñata cupcakes are next on my list.
TV
“Some Good News" - Okay, this is technically a web series, but I couldn’t not mention it. John Krasinski’s positive news show is sure to warm your heart. I also just love that his daughters made the adorable SGN sign hanging behind him in every episode.
“The Last Dance" - We are pretty much obsessed with this ESPN limited series on Michael Jordan and the 90s Bulls. As a native Chicagoan, how could I not watch? (Also, my one and only NBA experience was seeing Jordan take on the Utah Jazz at the United Center, circa 1996. And what a great experience it was.)
What have you been up to during this stay-at-home season? I’d love to know. Leave me a comment below.
The Best Books and Studies For Whatever You're Going Through
I'm always on the hunt for new books and enjoy settling in for a good read. The titles below are ones that have helped me through many different seasons of life. I hope they are as encouraging and challenging for you as they have been for me.
Any books you've read recently that I should add to my list? Let me know in the comments below!
Deepen Your Relationship
The Meaning of Marriage
I recommend this book to everyone I know, whether single, dating, engaged, or married. My boyfriend and I read through it together when we first starting dating, and it's a game-changer. You can also purchase the corresponding study guide.
Mingling of Souls
Matt Chandler's marriage book focuses on Song of Songs, an Old Testament book often referred to for its teachings on sex. You'll learn about God's design for sex, dating, marriage, and much more in an easy-to-read (yet thought-provoking) format.
Move Forward After a Broken Heart
It's Not You, It's God
Technically not a book or a study, but this article from Desiring God really helped me experience healing a few years ago and recognize that a true sense of closure comes from the Lord alone.
Passion and Purity
Elisabeth Elliot's life story is a remarkable one. Definitely look it up if you're not familiar. She's written countless books, and this one is specifically for singles (both men and women) on surrendering your relationships to Christ's control.
Heal from Destructive Behaviors
How People Change
I went through a chunk of this workbook during my time in counseling in New York City. If you're looking for Biblical-based help to turn from sin and start anew, this is it.
Grow in Community
Life Together
Dietrich Bonhoeffer wrote this book based on his time in an underground seminary during the Nazi occupation of Germany. Life Together instilled in me the importance of Christian fellowship and the reminder we cannot do this life alone.
Make Disciples
Growing Up
Become a disciple who makes disciples. Pastor Robby Gallaty (my pastor) wrote this practical guide to growing in your faith and starting a discipleship group for the very first time. It includes a Bible reading plan, accountability questions, how to share your faith, and more. You'll find even more resources and tools online here.
Live in Freedom
Wild and Free
I read and helped lead a women's study on this book last summer. The book helped each of us experience encouragement and hope and step into the women that God created us to be. Click here to download the leader's guide.
Strengthen Your Prayer Life
Prayer
Another favorite from Tim Keller, this one helped me structure my prayers and make them more meaningful. It's a book you'll want to read with complete focus and attention.
A Praying Life
I haven't read this book yet, but I've heard it's an incredible way to help you connect with God and experience great joy in prayer.
Act Courageously
Anything
Jennie Allen is the real deal. If you want to live out your faith and step boldly into what God might be calling you to, then this is the book for you. Be sure to take advantage of the study guide at the back, too.
Practice Evangelism
Turning Everyday Conversations into Gospel Conversations
We're reading through this book at work and each week, practicing what it looks like to share the Gospel. The "three-circles method" explained here can help you transition your daily conversations into more meaningful discussions about Christ.
Understand How Faith and Work Intersect
Every Good Endeavor
How does my career fit into God's design for my life? What's the point of work? How do I serve God if I'm not called into full-time ministry? Pick up this book to get answers to these questions and more.
Recognize God's Love for You
Crazy Love
God loves you relentlessly, and He wants a relationship with you. If you're continually striving for things and nothing ever seems to satisfies, maybe it's time to fall in love with the Lord.
Study the Bible More Effectively
Women of the Word
The book's subtitle is "How to Study the Bible with Both Our Hearts and Our Minds," and I can't describe it any better than that. Jen Wilkin is a powerhouse Bible study leader; I recommend this book to men and women alike.
A Few More Recommendations
The Broken Way (This one's been on my list for a while! Ann Voskamp is amazing.)
Disciplines of a Godly Man (Obviously have not read this one myself.)
How to Read the Bible for All It's Worth
Seamless (I heard Angie Smith speak at a women's conference this year. She became a Christian later in life, and I love her honesty, humor, and the way she always points back to the Word.)
If you want to talk more about Jesus Christ and faith and what-the-heck-is-all-this-stuff, shoot me a message. I love meeting new people, whether virtually or in person, and gabbing about life.
And if you'd like to know more of my story, you can read my testimony here.
Truly, He makes beautiful things.
What I'm Reading and Listening To
Happy December! How is it almost Christmas? I for one cannot believe this year is coming to a close, but I'm pumped to celebrate Christ's birthday in a few weeks and take some time off to really rest before 2017 hits.
A few of you have asked me about what I read and listen to, so I put together this quick list of really good resources out there. These are only a few of the many options, but these are ones I've personally used and can vouch for. What do you come back to on a regular basis? Send me a comment at the bottom of this post. I'd love to hear your suggestions!
Websites and Blogs:
Desiring God
I love reading the articles on this website. The site was founded by John Piper, a major theologian of our day, and he has a book of the same name. I also really enjoy his "Ask Pastor John" audio series. The clips are usually less than 10 minutes and tackle theological questions and hot-button topics, including sexuality, race, money, and more. Play around on the site, and you'll find dozens of free e-books, devotionals, and sermons.
Last week I downloaded the free Advent devotional, and that's been a great resource for my boyfriend and me as we go through the weeks leading up to Christmas.
The Gospel Coalition
I'm a big fan of this website because they publish articles from a whole bunch of different authors, but the content is always rooted in the Truth. The blog portion of the site often includes posts on current cultural matters, guaranteed to make you think or spark a conversation. You'll find various viewpoints and perspectives, which I believe is so helpful as we're engaging in the world as Christians.
Relevant Magazine
Relevant is a print and online magazine geared specifically at 20- and 30-somethings. Like a typical news mag, the site covers everything with continually updated content. I've appreciated some of their recent pieces on politics and international affairs, as well as their pop culture posts on Chip and Joanna Gaines, Justin Bieber, and Gilmore Girls.
Rachael Kincaid
I first heard about Rach Kincaid after reading the book Wild and Free by Jess Connolly and Hayley Morgan. These two work with Rachael at The Influence Network, a membership community for women who want to use their God-given influence in their everyday lives. Rach's words are powerful and convicting. Her Instagram is great, too. While you're at it, just go ahead and follow all three of these beautiful ladies.
Hannah Brencher
I've mentioned Hannah on this blog before--girlfriend can write. I am thankful for her encouragement and truth. Whether you're a man or woman, I highly recommend her blog. Sign up for the weekly Monday morning email, too.
Fabs Harford
After taking a break for the last year and a half, Fabs is back. I'm thankful for her wise words and steady heart for Jesus. I met Fabs two or three years ago at a women's retreat through my New York City church. She spoke on singleness and God's call for women with a message I so needed to hear at the time.
Podcasts and Videos:
GOSPEL IN LIFE / Timothy Keller
I didn't know about Tim Keller or Redeemer Church upon landing in New York City, but it wasn't long before I heard his name thrown around all the time. Another highly regarded theologian, Keller preaches straight from the Word, and I've learned so much and felt great encouragement from his messages. Start with "Your Plans: God's Plans," "Peace - Overcoming Anxiety," and "A Christian's Happiness."
THE VILLAGE CHURCH / MATT CHANDLER
My best friend moved to the Dallas area and attended The Village Church back in 2013; I've been listening to head pastor Matt Chandler ever since. While Keller is quietly impactful and compelling, Chandler's voice is booming and forceful. He manages to convict you right in the gut while still reminding you of the love of God.
Definitely listen to A Beautiful Design sermon series he did a few years ago on Biblical manhood and womanhood. The 10 messages rocked my world and really opened to my eyes to Biblical truth versus cultural expectations. And if you're in a relationship, consider watching/listening to the series and going through the questions with your significant other. I promise it will challenge and encourage you both.
I Am Second
Watching the testimonies on this website always moves me and often brings me to tears. It is amazing to see how God is working in each of our stories. Give yourself a few minutes to watch a short film or two. You won't be disappointed.
Books:
The Meaning of Marriage
Single? Dating? Engaged? Married? Divorced? Read this book. It's another gem from Tim Keller, and it will change the way you think about marriage. God has a vision for our relationships that is simply beautiful. Whatever your age, I think you'll appreciate the book.
Anything
"God we will do anything. Anything."
That's the prayer Jennie Allen and her husband prayed as they felt empty and distant from God. The adventure He had in store for them is amazing. We read this book and did the Bible study with my women's group last year, and I couldn't believe how much it impacted me. Pray "anything" and watch God respond.
The Screwtape Letters
A C.S. Lewis classic. Screwtape is a senior demon who writes letters to his nephew and apprentice, Wormwood. He instructs Wormwood on how to lead Christians astray and essentially take them down. The satire was published in 1942, yet it still rings true today.
Crazy Love
This is not a book about relationships but about Jesus's crazy relentless love for us. In the words of author Frances Chan, the answer to authentic faith isn't working harder at a list of dos and don'ts. It's falling in love with God. Doing so changes everything.
Apps:
She Reads Truth / He Reads Truth
Hands down my favorite app. This Bible reading app is personalized for men or women. I like using it to compare different Bible versions. I can also highlight passages or make notes. I'm working my way through the free Bible In A Year reading plan, which is really cool because I can see comments from other people doing the same readings. The app has additional book-specific reading plans, some free and some for $1.99. Don't forget to download the free iPhone/iPad wallpapers, too!
Echo
Striving to pray continuously? Echo has you covered. Keep track of prayer requests and even set reminders and on your phone to pray. I like that I can choose a prayer request and then set a timer for however many minutes to pray. Best of all, the app is totally free.
If you want to talk more about Jesus Christ and faith and what-the-heck-is-all-this-stuff, shoot me a message. I love meeting new people, whether virtually or in person, and gabbing about life.
And if you'd like to know more of my story, you can read my testimony here.
Truly, He makes beautiful things.