Culture

Some of Our Favorite Books by Our Seconds

Doug Bender

August 11, 2022 | 2 minute read

In honor of Book Lover’s Day on Aug. 9, we’re making it book week! 

Personally, I never need a reason to pick up a good book. But whether you are a fellow bookworm or just an aspiring book lover, here are some great picks before you launch into fall. Each of these inspirational books is a recent release from one of our Seconds.

The Jesus I Know by Kathie Lee Gifford 

New York Times bestselling author and long-time morning TV host, Kathie Lee Gifford, offers a truly unique kind of book featuring conversations she has had about Jesus. While Gifford is, herself, a committed follower of Jesus, not everyone featured is in the book. But that is exactly the unique draw of this book. With a lifetime in media interviewing thousands of people from all walks of life, she has a huge bank of fascinating conversations to draw from. You will love the chance to eavesdrop on these unique conversations about Jesus. 

No Pain, No Gaines by Chip Gaines 

A New York Times best-selling book by one of the country’s favorite home renovation experts and also co-founder of Magnolia Network. While most may know the Gaines for building homes, here Chip Gaines walks readers through what it looks like to build a life of meaning, joy and connection. A particular emphasis is placed on what it takes to build a meaningful community and to truly love the people around you. (Special Note: The audiobook features Chip Gaines himself as the reader.)

I Am Restored: How I Lost My Religion but Found My Faith by Lecrae Moore 

Hip-hop artist and bestselling author, Lecrae, writes his most personal book yet. If you are feeling jaded, hurt, fed up with religion or struggling to square the reality of pain with the love of God, then this book is for you! Lecrae shares his walk through his faith journey. It’s a great reminder how our scars and past trauma can be assets for a brighter future. 

Kingdom Values by Tony Evans 

Tony Evans is the most prolific author on our list with a total of five books released in just the last two years. Book after book is filled with powerful wisdom, brilliant insight and inspiring calls to action. Kingdom Values challenges us to cling to strong character and godly values no matter what the culture and world around us is shouting. If you feel your head spinning every time you read the news or scroll through social media, then this book will give you a foundation of truth to stand.

The Way of the Father by Michael W Smith with Robert Noland

This Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter credits his father for much of his success. Moreover,it was through the unconditional love of his earthly father that he came to discover the everlasting love of the heavenly Father. It’s an inspiring read for any father wanting to leave a positive legacy for his children or for anyone wanting to really understand what it means to call out to God, “Father! Father!”

Live on Purpose by Sadie Robertson Huff with Beth Clark and Tama Fortner

While not directly featured on iamsecond.com, the Robertson family story is a fan-favorite for many. This book is great for people looking to find purpose in life and the strength to overcome fear and anxiety. Sadie and her co-authors do more than give you a pep talk by actually teaching some practical tools for building confidence and charging towards the life God has called you. 

I Found Love by Doug Bender 

The latest offering from I Am Second features the powerfully true stories of people discovering love, belonging and friendship when God comes into their lives. You’ll cry, laugh and find inspiration for loving your loved ones even better. Features stories from Mike Fisher & Carrie Underwood, Danny Gokey, Jessica Long and many more. 

 
Doug Bender

Doug Bender

Doug Bender is an I Am Second writer and small groups coach. He developed many of the small group tools found at iamsecond.com and has coached churches, organizations, and individuals to use I Am Second groups to share the message of Jesus with their friends and family. He also works with I Am Second's parent organization, e3 Partners, as a church planter and pastor in countries such as Ethiopia, Colombia, and the US. Doug and his wife, Catherine, have four children: Bethany, Samuel, Isabella, and Jesse.

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