Dark Glass Ponderings

For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known. -1 Corinthians 13:12

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faithfulness, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
-Galatians 5:22-23

One of my favorite things about summer is fruit.  I love taking the kids berry picking, which basically involves chasing them out of their hiding places behind the hedges...trying to make sure there are more in the basket than in their tummies...but the best part is coming home and having fruit salad for lunch. 



As Christians, we know we are called to display fruit of the Spirit. Which leads me to one of the
reasons I enjoy reading Christian fiction.  Good Christian fiction teaches about living the Christian life through example.  In this series, I would like to spotlight some Christian fiction which can teach  us about living the fruitful life. 

Love

And walk in love, [esteeming and delighting in one another] as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us, a slain offering and sacrifice to God [for you, so that it became] a sweet fragrance. Ephesians 5: 2

(1) Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers:  One of my all-time favorite Christian novels is a 19th century retelling of the book of Hosea and a very powerful parable of God's unfailing love that never leaves us.  It is also a beautiful story of Michael Hosea's faithfulness towards his wife.

(2) A Passion Most Pure by Julie Lessman: A recent favorite of mine which shows not only blossoming new romance, but also the beauty of older married love and passion for God.

(3) Hadassah: One Night with the King by Tommy Tenney: Esther's love story and the story of God's love and protection for His people.


Joy

But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.- Psalm 5:11

(1) Finding Alice by Melody Carlson: I haven't read many books Christian or otherwise that deal well with the issue of depression. 

(2) The Red Glove series by Karen Kingsbury: This Christmas novella series shows the main characters finding joy through a variety of trials, including a difficult marriage, prolonged illness, and the death of a family member.

(3) Katrina's Wings by Patricia Hickman Lyrically told tale of overcoming a difficult past.

Is there any fiction you've read which demonstrates a powerful example of God's love for us and the love we should have for our fellow man? What are your favorite Christian fiction picks that showcase the joy that comes from following God?

6 comments:

What a great idea, Julia! I love the idea of "Fruity Fiction!" And I especially like your choices for "Love." :)

"Joy" is definitely a harder one to come up with choices for. Mary Connealy's books remind me of the beauty of joy in our lives that is demonstrated trough our ability to laugh. :) And A Passion Denied serves as a reminder that God wants us to feel joy and rest in His grace. (I hope that isn't giving away too much since I know you haven't got to it yet! Hope you can read it soon!)

Thanks again for this post!

~Amber

Amber,

Yes, some are definitely harder than others. I really want to read Mary Connealy, I've heard her books are really funny.

And I can't wait to read A Passion Denied. Hopefully soon...just a few more review books to finish first.

You're welcome and thanks for commenting. I'm always happy to see you around the web :)

Awwww, thank you! :D I always love reading your comments, too!

And I hope you get a chance to read some of Mary Connealy's stuff--it's really fun! :)

I'm so excited about this coming month...there are so many good books coming in the mail! Are you going to read Surrender the Heart by MaryLu Tyndall? And A Hope Undaunted by Julie Lessman? *sigh* I can't wait!!!

~Amber

Check out my book for your list. I think it may fit. Just go to my blog and website. Thanks!

I'm excited to read Julie & MaryLu's new books! So many good books coming up!! Can't wait for Lynn Austin's new book, either!! Have a great weekend!!

Thanks, David!


Julia M. Reffner

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Christ-loving bookworm & homeschool mom of 2 stealing the rare quiet moments to pursue that all elusive writing dream. I also write book reviews for Title Trakk and The Historical Novel Society.

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