You have so much you want to tell your graduating senior—whether a child, grandchild, or friend. Although you’ve spent years sharing the wisdom you’ve gleaned from life, somehow that doesn’t seem to be nearly enough. There’s always something else you meant to say, some piece of advice you forgot to mention, some story from your past that could definitely help.
Instead of loading them down with everything you think they’ll need, sometimes it’s better to supply them with solid books that can shape them over the long run. But which ones should you choose? We’d love to help. These books have made an impact on us as editors and Christians, and we believe they are essential for any graduate’s library.
We’re assuming here that they already have a solid Bible for study (and know a good website for in-depth reading on their smartphone). None of these recommendations matter if there’s no solid foundation in Scripture. But if that’s there, then here are 12 books to give your graduate to help them in their journey.
Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis
This classic explanation and defense of the Christian faith has stirred up men and women for decades. The conversational style and vivid prose make chewing through even complex theological concepts enjoyable. You may not agree with Lewis on all points, but Mere Christianity will challenge you to examine what you believe and why you believe it. Every grad needs to take a look inside.
Every Young Man’s/Woman’s Battle by Stephen Arterburn, Fred Stoeker, and Shannon Ethridge
Sex. Every graduate will face an onslaught from the world when it comes to sex. Porn is more common on the Internet than cat memes, smartphone apps encourage hooking up with a simple swipe, and temptations have become nearly constant. In fact, the battle they face will likely only grow more intense. They need help, and the Every Man’s Battle series gives them the weapons to overcome. BothEvery Young Man’s Battle and Every Young Woman’s Battle tackle this topic in a way that will stick with them.
The Reason for God: Belief in the Age of Skepticism by Tim Keller
Considered by many an instant classic, The Reason for God by Pastor Tim Keller often appears on lists of the best Christian books of all time. There’s a good reason for that. This well-reasoned volume has become the go-to book for answering the skeptics of our day. With his firm grasp of Scripture, Keller will provide your graduate with a new trust in God’s unfailing Word.
Crazy Love: Overwhelmed by a Relentless God by Francis Chan
Millions of Christians have responded to the passionate appeal Francis Chan unleashed on the world in the form of Crazy Love. This book has become fodder for small group studies and awakened many to the need to do more in their love for God than just “trying not to cuss.” Easy to read, but impossible to put down, Chan’s short book will charge your graduate up to pursue a wild love for Jesus.
Source: Crosswalk | BibleStudyTools.com
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