Introduction

Reading has always been an essential part of my life, shaping my thoughts and enriching my understanding of various topics. This year, I explored a variety of books, including theology, biography, psychology, and classic literature. I want to share my thoughts on each book I read in 2024.

1. The Strategy of Satan by Warren Wiersbe

Thoughts: Great book on the topic of Satan. Usually, these books fall into extremes—either demons are behind every bush, or there are no demons at all since we are not in the apostolic age anymore. This book presents a well-balanced view of Satan and how he works in people’s lives.

2. Timothy Keller by Collin Hansen

Thoughts: This is a biography about Tim Keller. I learned a lot from Tim Keller and had the opportunity to meet him personally. I expected more from this book, but it gives a good introduction to the life and influence of Timothy Keller.

3. Pastor to Pastor by Erwin Lutzer

Thoughts: I am a pastor, so I try to read books that help me grow in my calling. This is a great book from a very experienced pastor of Church in Chicago. I really benefited from his godly wisdom and advice to pastors in this book.

4. What Is the Trinity? by R.C. Sproul

Thoughts: One of the reasons I struggled early in my faith was that I had a hard time understanding the Trinity. And I still can’t fully understand it! But books by great theologians like Sproul help give a better understanding and show how the church throughout history has viewed the Trinity. It’s a nice little book!

5. A Grief Observed by C.S. Lewis

Thoughts: Lewis’ raw and honest reflections on grief after losing his wife are deeply moving. His insights into suffering and faith are profound. This book resonates with anyone who has experienced loss and pain.

6. The Happiest Man on Earth by Eddie Jaku

Thoughts: Having read several books on the Holocaust, I found Jaku’s memoir very inspiring. His story is one of resilience and optimism, even in the darkest of times. It’s both fascinating and deeply sad.

7. Untangling Emotions by J. Alasdair Groves

Thoughts: Last year, I decided to learn more about human emotions and the biblical perspective on this topic, so I read three books on the subject. This book provides a well-balanced biblical view of our emotional life.

8. The Emotional Life of Our Lord by B.B. Warfield

Thoughts: Warfield, a highly respected Reformed theologian, provides an in-depth analysis of Jesus’ emotions as recorded in Scripture. Though written in an older theological style, the book offers valuable insights into Christ’s humanity and compassion.

9. Attachments: Why You Love, Feel, and Act the Way You Do by Dr. Tim Clinton and Dr. Gary Sibcy

Thoughts: I’ve heard a lot about attachment issues and know people who struggle with them. I wanted to learn more about this topic to better support others. Honestly, after reading this book, I learned a lot about this subject, but I still have many questions.

10. When People Are Big and God Is Small by Edward Welch

Thoughts: A fantastic book on overcoming the fear of people and learning to live with a God-centered perspective. I found it so impactful that I dedicated an entire blog post to discussing its insights.

11. No Little People by Francis A. Schaeffer

Thoughts: I’ve read some books by Francis Schaeffer, but not many of his sermons. This book is a collection of some of his best sermons. There are certain sermons that, once read, stay with you for life—I found a few of those in this book.

12. Habits of the Household by Justin Earley

Thoughts: This is a great book about the importance of family and establishing good routines in the home. While I don’t agree with everything in it, I still really enjoyed it. It helped me recognize the significance of my family and what I can do for them as a father.

13. Anna Karenina by Leo Tolstoy

Thoughts: I am a Russian-speaking person, so I have to read at least one Russian classic, right? This book powerfully portrays the destructive impact of sin—the slow ruin it brings to a person’s life. What also amazes me is how deeply Leo Tolstoy understood women’s psychology. How did he know?

Bible—Epistle of Jude

This year, I focused on studying one of the most neglected books of the Bible—the Epistle of Jude, as noted by some commentators. I especially appreciated the insights from the commentaries by Douglas Moo, Thomas Schreiner, and William Barclay.

Conclusion

Reflecting on the books I read in 2024, I thank God for the ability to think, reason, analyze, and learn. I also thank Him for His faithfulness to me and my family throughout the year of 2024.