Six Must Read Biographies
I tend to read a lot. And of all that I read, Christian biographies are probably one of my favorite genres. So I asked myself if I got lost or thrown in prison, what three biographies would I choose to keep me company? Tough, real tough. So I tweaked my question and decided on six, though that was equally difficult. But these are the six that, more than others, rise to the top – the rich “cream” of biographies. These six have influenced and changed my life more than most. Though they are in no particular order, if you haven’t read Christian biographies, I would suggest reading them in the order given.
Rees Howells Intercessor (by Norman Grubb)
Probably my all time favorite biography. Rees Howells lived the life I want most. Growing up on the British Isle, he had an overwhelming experience with Jesus where he gave up everything in order to be spilled and spent for the glory and Kingdom of God. He was a man of prayer – effectual and fervent prayer – that literally changed the course of history at several points.
CT Studd, Cricketeer and Pioneer (by Norman Grubb)
CT Studd lived no ordinary life. Everything about this man was extraordinary – but extraordinary because of the God who indwelt and lived his life. It was Studd who changed world missions and vied for individuals to give up everything and trust in the life and provision of Jesus. Studd was a missionary throughout China, India, and was the first missionary to enter into “dark Africa.” His life story is not weak; it is in-your-face with passion, conviction, and encouragement.
Samuel Logan Brengle, Portrait of a Prophet (by Clarence Hall)
I have often prayed that God would shape me into a man that is a composite of several people (in fact several of those people are the ones whose biographies are mentioned here), but the man I have read that I sense God most moving me toward is this one, Samuel Brengle. As a Salvation Army preacher, Brengle was a man focused on one thing – the glory and holiness of God being preeminent in the lives of individuals. His was not an easy life, but it was a full one.
Samuel Morris
I have never read of an individual so captured by the indwelling presence of Christ. Having a supernatural encounter with Jesus in the bush of Africa (he was the son of a tribal king), Morris found his way to America where he desired to learn more about the Holy Spirit. Upon arrival, everyone’s life he encountered was turned upside down. He died a few years later but the testimony of his life still rings true. Reading his life always wells up deep emotion within my chest. Note: books on Morris are hard to find, there are a few good ones like “Heroes of Faith” but the great oldies are no longer in print.
Oswald Chambers, Abandoned to God (by David McCasland)
Oswald Chambers, the author of the famous My Utmost For His Highest, is one of my favorite authors to read. His life is even more profound. A humble servant, a prolific writer, a deep expositor and preacher, and a remarkable teacher are a few words that describe this man of God. Captured in both story and journal entries, this book gives you a view of the man who wrote the world’s best selling devotional book and brought countless thousands to the saving work of Christ.
Amy Carmichael, A Chance to Die (by Elizabeth Elliot)
Amy Carmichael, as a young Irish woman, set off to be a missionary – spending the majority of her life in India. Her life was one of complete abandon as she rescued girls from temple prostitution, cared for orphans, and wrote passionately about the Christian life. Reading about Carmichael gives an urgency of soul, a deeper love and passion for Jesus, and a piercing conviction.
I have been reading a book for some time now, and one the chapters covers intercessors. The Hebrew word for intercession happens to be “paga,” which means, “to hit the mark.” Jesus happened to send this author to meet with Samuel Howells (Rees Howells son) for a prayer assignment at a college in Wales. Samuel Howells made a striking statement, “The servent of God must be possessed by God!”
“Intercession has many different and diverse anointings. Some deal with governmental prayer burdens; others center on the nation of Israel and the Middle East, still more concern prayers for those in authority, or for families, and so forth. Some prophetic intercessors pick up the Lord’s current burden and pray out the revelatory gifting. Although each of us has special grace, we must make ourselves availble to whatever God needs at a certain moment.”- James Goll
Even if that moment is in when you are sleeping, it is completely worth it…to allow ourselves to be completely avaible for God to use, as both an instrument and vessel. I believe the one who wrote this blog is trying to encourage others to do the same. Remember in the end, it’s not how much money you make or how many expensive items you have. What is more important is your soul that Jesus sees as you enter heaven, and the lives of others that you have touched.
Thank you for sharing this. I really loved learning the definition “paga” meaning to “hit the mark.” I appreciated what you wrote about the varying areas of intercession. At this time, my heart is really burdened to pray for the United States and Israel. I never knew I was a “governmental intercessor,” as I never really had any interest in politics. But, with God, all things are possible, and the least likely to do something usually reveals His great glory! :) God bless you!
—And, Nathan! Thanks for the post! I decided to hop on over here to see whose biographies you suggested! Hope all is well with you! Blessings!
I am SO excited about the Greatest Christians in History class! Expectant about what God is going to reveal to all of us through these examples of surrendered lives!
I completely agree! I am thoroughly anticipating the class as well! Oh what a Jesus we have!!
I like your blog, and these are some good recommendations. A Chance to Die is one of my favorite books. Amy Charmichael and George Mueller are two people whose stories God used to significantly impact my spiritual life. Here are couple more I would suggest to you or your readers:
God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew
Tortured for Christ by Richard Wurmbrand
and Safely Home by Randy Alcorn
(The latter is fictional, but as powerful and inspiring as any biography that I have read.)
Thanks Melany. I agree with your other book list, those are certainly some favorites as well! And I really enjoyed perusing your blog – great stuff, keep at it! I am thrilled to hear that you enjoyed and Jesus stirred your heart while at Ellerslie this past Fall during the “Taste of Ellerslie”! Looking forward to spending some time reading some of your posts and watching for the upcoming blog releases. Cheering you forward deeper into Jesus.
Thanks for the encouragement, and I am glad you stopped by to read Letters from Rosebud. I look forward to reading more here as well, expecting to be challenged in my walk.
Yes, God is doing a special work at Ellerslie. Are you a student there? Or staff member?