Books That Helped to Shape Me

By Jill Krueger Wagner

 I am who I am today through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ. He has often used written material to shape me into the image He had in mind when He created me.

These stand out in my memory of those written words that transformed me from an angry, bitter woman into one who relishes life in Christ. First and foremost, the New Testament.   http://bit.ly/4r2Tto6 It was in the New Testament that I first learned that I could never be acceptable to God in my state of pride – in doing things my own way. He showed me, through reading that nobody is good enough to be forgiven on their own (Romans 3:23 & 6:23) – we all must humble ourselves to admit we are all sinners who need a Savior and then submit to His rule of our lives. Oh, the depths of the riches one can find in the Word of God! Strength to survive trials and wisdom beyond human understanding. If you read just 15 minutes a day, you can read the entire thing in 90 days.

Bible studies have taught me so much through the years. The one that stands out from all of them is “Experiencing God.” This is the only study that I have done four times and reaped wisdom each time. https://bit.ly/4a98dw6

A daily devotional is a great way to start the day with a focus on God. I’ve loved many through the years but the one that stands out is “My Utmost for His Glory.”  It was originally written years ago so it has some archaic language – reading an updated one will help to understand.

https://www.christianbook.com/utmost-for-his-highest-updated-edition/oswald-chambers/9781627078757/pd/078757?event=BRSRCQ|PSEN

Andrew Murray’s “Absolute Surrender” is a classic that I am presently rereading. It’s a gem.

https://bit.ly/4qBGPfV

At a time when I had to deal with some very unreasonable people the book “Fool-proofing Your Life” was extremely helpful.   https://bit.ly/3M3KBjf

Since I’ve suffered with the affliction of speaking when I should be silent, “When to Speak Up and When to Shut Up” is one that I often pull out. I keep a copy of the questions to ask before confronting family or friends handy in order to reign in my tendency to “open mouth, insert foot.”  https://bit.ly/4pVo7yS

Because I periodically face the trials of life, I love the little purple book, “The Secret Power of Speaking God’s Word.” It’s so nice to have a resource with the index of issues we all often face. Speaking God’s Word out is very helpful to counteract my own negative thinking and the messages I hear in the world.

https://www.christianbook.com/the-secret-power-speaking-gods-word/joyce-meyer/9780446577366/pd/577367?event=BRSRCP|PSEN&ps_exit=PRODUCT|legacy&search_term=The%20secret%20power&Ntt=577367&product_redirect=1