5 Books that will Make You Better

I read a lot. There are a few reasons for that, one being that I like to learn, but more than that, I want to be a great leader. So I try to do what great leaders do. One thing that I've found when talking to great leaders is they are always bringing up books they've read.

Dave Ramsey often speaks of his mom teaching him about books, saying, "anything that you want to be, anything that you want to know, any problem that you have can be solved with a book. Books give you the wisdom of the ages."

Charlie Jones once said, "You are the same today as you'll be in 5 years except for two things: the books you read and the people you meet."

There's a lot of truth in those statements.

Recently, I've read several books that have helped me as a leader, a pastor, a believer, and a musician. Here’s 5 I think you might like:

1.    The Circle Maker - Mark Batterson

I read The Circle Maker for the second time this year. I first read it in 2013 and then let it sit on a shelf for a few years. I picked it up again this summer and was challenged by Batterson's urge for us all to pray big, bold prayers.

2. Whisper - Mark Batterson

After re-reading The Circle Maker, I picked up Mark Batterson's newest book, Whisper. The Circle Maker is all about how to pray, how to speak to God. Whisper, on the other hand, is about the other side of the conversation. It's about how God speaks to us.

3. Writing Better Lyrics - Pat Pattison

I read Writing Better Lyrics in order to do just that - become a better songwriter. It's not as spiritual as the first too. In fact, it's completely practical. But could be just as valuable. Many worship leaders I know aspire to write songs for their church, but don't know where to begin. Try starting here!

4. The Holy Spirit is Not a Bird - Ty Buckingham

I went to college with Ty Buckingham. He's a great communicator who travels the world teaching about the Holy Spirit. Although I know the author, this is less of a plug for a friend than you may think. In The Holy Spirit is Not a Bird, Ty gives great practical insight on having a relationship with the Holy Spirit. This is an incredible resource for growing your faith and your knowledge of God.

5. Paul and His Team - Ryan Lokkesmoe

Paul and His Team is a book all about the way the Apostle Paul interacted with those serving around him. It’s a great resource for anyone in a team setting. I read it in the beginning stages of our church plant and it’s made a huge difference in how I lead our launch team.

What have you been reading? I'd love to know!