Five Great Books for Christian Men

I do a lot of reading. Here are five books that I have read recently that I would recommend for Christian men and fathers. As you can see, some of these books have been out for a while, but they are great for a first read, or a re-read.

1)      Stepping Up (2011) by Dennis Rainey

Rainey’s book is a great read for any man seeking to leave a legacy of godliness to his family, or wondering how to lead a family in a godly path. Filled with personal stories and sage advice, I found the book to be a reminder that manhood carries with it many responsibilities that I must not neglect. The book is also a wellspring of quotes that can be used in many settings.

2)      Tender Warrior (2006) by Stu Weber

Weber looks at the important role a man plays in the life of his spouse, children, and friends. He reminds readers of the biblical precedent for being a strong person who is also loving and kind. Finally, he reminds men that we are accountable to God for all of our actions in family leadership.

3)      Conviction to Lead (2012) by Albert Mohler

Mohler lists 25 principles that are essential in every leader’s life. The principles have less to do with professional acumen and more to do with personal character. It is a great reminder that in whatever form of leadership (whether you lead a corporation, a classroom, or a family) your personal convictions and worldview are more important even than the decisions you make.

4)      Raising a Modern-Day Knight (2007) by Robert Lewis

Lewis walks through the process that he and two other friends took in raising their sons to be principled men of character. The three men developed a strategy for celebrating various manhood milestones in which their sons were “initiated” into a knighthood. The book is very practical. My son and I have started the conversation about what our family values should be and what our family crest should include. I’m looking forward to making a meaningful milestone ceremony when my son graduates from kindergarten this year.

5)      Strong Fathers, Strong Daughters (2007) by Meg Meeker

The pediatrician gives ten principles that men must remember when raising their daughters. Her principles are not surprising, but they are good reminders that fathers have a significant influence on their daughters throughout the girls’ lives. Her research serves to show that a father must protect his daughter from a culture that is increasingly against her healthy maturation into womanhood.

            I don’t think any of these books will teach you something new. But they all remind you to keep up the good fight, and to hold fast to those things that are true and righteous. And I think that we need those reminders regularly. They also offer encouragement, giving you strength to carry on when you feel that everything is against your doing what is godly and biblical. For these reasons alone, they are worth a read.