What’s on Elyse Fitzpatrick’s Shelf? 7 Picks

3 weeks ago 24

Editor’s note: The resources recommended in our On the Shelf series are the opinions of the featured individuals, not those of Logos. We are publishing a breadth of voices to reflect varying perspectives within the church.

Elyse Fitzpatrick holds a certificate in biblical counseling from CCEF (San Diego) and an MA in biblical counseling from Trinity Theological Seminary. She has authored over twenty-five books on daily living and the Christian life.

Elyse’s top seven resources are listed below. Where possible, we’ve linked to where you can purchase the resources from Logos.

1. Surprised by Paradox: The Promise of “And” in an Either-Or World, by Jen Pollock Michel

It’s easy to think that our faith is black and white—and when it comes to certain doctrines, it is. But there’s also so much that’s grey, and it’s that both/and world that we live in. Delightful.

2. She Needs: Women Flourishing in the Church, by Nay Dawson

Another call for the church to revisit questions of how women may be called, encouraged, and valued.

3. Confronting Sexism in the Church: How We Got Here and What We Can Do About It, by Heather Matthews

Matthews offers a compelling and detailed examination of deep-seated sexism in the church and how it thwarts and crushes women—and what can be done about it.

4. Memorizing Scripture: The Basics, Blessings, and Benefits of Meditating on God’s Word, by Glenna Marshall

This is more than a demand to memorize the Bible NOW. It offers encouragements, and it helps that Marshall learned through deep suffering how the Word transformed her.

5. How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen, by David Brooks

I’ve heard from a number of people that this is one of their new favorite books. I loved it. And I find Brooks’ writing (especially now that he’s come to faith) insightful and encouraging. A must-read for people who have to interact with people. In other words, for all of us.

6. Start with Welcome: The Journey Toward a Confident and Compassionate Immigration Conversation, by Bri Stensrud

How are Christians supposed to respond to the headline about an “invasion” while at the same time remembering our call to love our neighbors? Bri Stensrud, head of Women of Welcome (World Relief) has not only the expertise but also the wisdom to help you navigate difficult conversations. And she’s laid it all out in this accessible book.