I absolutely LOVE books. I love a book that leads me to the Cross, reminds me of God's abundant grace, convicts me of unrecognized sin, and helps me love my husband or children better. God's Word is always my go-to for all of those things, but there’s something special about hearing experiences and lessons from other people who are walking this same journey of faith. Their words feel like a warm cup of coffee with a trusted friend—comforting, challenging, and motivating. (By the way, here’s my very favorite note-taking Bible. I’m an ESV girl through and through.)

Over the years, I’ve read a lot of Christian books, but only a few have left such a deep imprint on my life that I still talk about them years later. I prayed hard about which ones to share here, and I narrowed it down to six books (and one journal) that I truly believe every Mama could benefit from. These books have been lifelines to me in different seasons, and I want to give you a quick rundown of why I love them so much.

So which books and WHY?

1. The Best Yes by Lysa TerKeurst
Lysa is a prolific author and basically a Women’s Ministry Rockstar in my book. I love everything I’ve read from her, and I’ve been in awe as she’s walked through some very public trials with astounding grace. The Best Yes is one of those books that you simply can’t put down, and then you find yourself quoting it for years afterward. I loved it so much I gave it to a dozen friends for Christmas the year I first read it. She dives into expectations, boundaries, and analysis paralysis—not just about choosing what’s good, but learning how to choose what’s best according to God’s plan. You’ll be underlining, highlighting, and dog-earing pages, I promise.

2. Sacred Influence by Gary Thomas
If anyone asks me for a primary marriage recommendation, this is always my default. God used this book to tear the veil from my eyes about the astounding role a wife plays in being a helpmeet to her husband. For years, I’ll be honest, that idea made me gag. But Gary has a way of showing how God designed our role in a beautiful, sacred way—not as a doormat, not as a sidekick, but as someone with holy influence over our husband’s life. It’s precious, powerful, and sometimes precarious, which means it has to be tended carefully. This book completely reshaped how I view my marriage, and I highly recommend any of Gary Thomas’s other books too.

3 & 4. The Life Giving Home and The Life Giving Home Experience by Sally and Sarah Clarkson
I’m a huge Sally Clarkson fan, and this mother-daughter duo did not disappoint with these titles. The Life Giving Home inspired me to view my home as more than just a place we live—it’s a sacred space where brokenness can be healed, where chains of bondage can be broken, and where lasting memories are built. Sarah’s voice alongside her mother’s adds such richness, showing the generational fruit of intentional living. The companion book, The Life Giving Home Experience, is a practical guide that walks you through the year with ideas for traditions and rhythms that cultivate a home your children will cherish long after they’ve grown. These books stirred up such a longing in me to create that kind of haven for my own family.

5. Free of Me by Sharon Hodde Miller
This is a newer read for me, but I honestly couldn’t pass up including it. Sharon’s writing is raw, direct, and needed. She pulls no punches in addressing how self-focus can ruin our faith and relationships, and how freedom comes only when we shift our gaze to God. As I read, God peeled back layers of pride and selfishness I didn’t even know were there. It wasn’t comfortable, but it was necessary. This is the kind of book you’ll want to read slowly, with a pen in hand and a prayerful heart.

6. Women of the Word by Jen Wilkin
I can’t say enough about this one. Jen Wilkin equips women to study Scripture with confidence, clarity, and depth. Instead of spoon-feeding answers, she teaches you how to dig into the Word yourself—how to trace themes, understand context, and see the big picture of God’s story. I’m so convinced of its importance that I’m starting a small group this Saturday using Women of the Word. I believe it’s the perfect resource for any woman who wants to grow in disciplined, life-giving study of the Bible.

Final Thoughts

Those are my absolute favorites, friends. Each of these books came to me in a different season of my life, and each one shaped me in unique ways—whether it was helping me set boundaries, see my marriage differently, create a Christ-centered home, or dig deeper into God’s Word.

I’d love to know if you’ve read any of these, or if you have your own “life-changing favorites.” What books have encouraged your walk with Christ and helped you grow as a wife, mother, or daughter of God? Share in the comments—I’m always looking for the next great read to add to my shelf!

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