In our hourse we’re preparing for the kids to return to school and for me to return to face-to-face classes at Purdue. We all came home in mid-March, and I’d say we’re largely ready to see what the fall has in store. This year has been the year of Flexible Chaos, and I’m certain it’s not over yet!

Those who know me well would be quick to confirm that I don’t do chaos well…at all. In fact I prefer having a plan even if I have to flex in the middle of the plan. I’m better at flexing now that I’m no longer in my 20s, but it’s still a struggle for me. This year has made it imperative, but there have been days and weeks as I tried to imagine what this fall would look like, that I had to grab a book and hide on our patio. Anyone relate?

One of the things that has been helpful has been taking hour-long walks most mornings (Monday through Friday) while my kids were at swim team practices. I’d stroll through neighborhoods that have now become as familiar to me as my own and listen to books. It may have been a Lisa Scottoline as I binged her Rosato & Associates series. Or this last week a couple non-fiction histories that have engaged my mind. I’ve also read books to try and fill my mind with truth at a time it’s been easy to focus on all the craziness and uncertainty in the world. Have you read any of these?

I read You Are the Girl for the Job by Jess Connolly right before COVID hit, and it is powerful. It’s one I want to give to every woman who’s wondering if God can use her, whether there’s a call on her life. I listened to the audiobook (such fun as the author narrated it so I could hear her heart in the words), and I’ve dug through the paperback I already owned. Rich with wisdom, honesty, and vulnerability. But even more the pages are FILLED with passion for women to take their place alongside God as He works through them to reach the world. If you’re interested in this one, FaithGateway and the author have teamed up for a free online study that starts on September 7th. I’m excited to do that and go through the truth again. You can register here.

Get Out of Your Head by Jennie Allen isn’t a book that you’ll blow through in a couple days — at least not if you want to eat the meat that’s inside. The book is designed to help us stop our toxic thoughts — who hasn’t had some of those this year? I love how the author is vulnerable in her pursuit of showing us a path away from spiraling thoughts. We have a choice. I have a choice. Such a simple, yet powerful, concept. Then she provides roadmaps for eight sets of thoughts- how to transfer them to choices and regain control of our thoughts.

Last but not least, Rhythms of Renewal by Rebekah Lyons reminded me of Good and Beautiful God or Celebration of Discipline. It’s focus is on how to step out of the craziness of our days and find ways to settle in with God. I was reading this in the early days of our shelter-in-place and it’s a book I could return to again and again. Filled with practical strategies and relevant examples, Rebekah Lyons builds the case that we need rhythm in four areas: Rest, Restore, Connect and Create. When we feel stessed, overwhelmed or anxious, she suggests it’s because we’ve lost balance in one or more of those areas. While those alone aren’t new concepts, she has three questions at the end of each chapter that when applied help us move into application.

The final one, though I don’t have a photo of it for you, is Chasing Vines by Beth Moore. Man, that one read my mail and was a lifeline. I listened to it right after Rhythms of Renewal, and Chasing Vines was just what I needed at this time. I listened to the audiobook while walking when I needed to get away from my desk during #shelterinplace. Listening to Beth read her book kept the emotion real and the feeling I was sitting with a friend as she shared wisdom with me. I’ve long loved Beth Moore’s Bible studies, and have led many for the women in our church. But this came at a time I needed to go deep and see the hope of good and hard times. Highly recommend.

What are you reading right now? I’m about done with my second time through None Like Him, so I’m looking for recommendations. Leave a comment and enter below. I’ll randomly select someone to send a copy of None Like Him.

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