Recommended Reading: Books On Worship, Discernment, Assurance, and Music

Here are some of my favorite books from the first half of 2008.   I’d be glad to know some of your favorites, too — it might help me decide what to read in the second half of 2008.

1. Worship Matters: Leading Others To Encounter The Greatness Of God, by Bob Kauflin of Sovereign Grace.  I’ve blogged about this one a couple times already.  If you’re a worship leader or music minister of any sort, or you know one, get this book.  Seriously.  It’s the ultimate blend of comprehensiveness and simplicity.  Sound theology and tons of practical helps.

2. The Best of the World Cafe, by David Dye.  The host of the popular NPR music show presents the printed texts of some of his favorite interviews from the show, featuring guests like Jeff Buckley, Brandford Marsalis, Tom Waits, Neko Case, The Clash, Merle Haggard, Tori Amos and many more.

3. Do I Know God? Finding Certainty In Life’s Most Important Relationship, by Tullian Tchividjian.  The grandson of Billy and Ruth Graham, pastor of New City Presbyerian Church, visiting professor at Reformed Theological Seminary and mighty fine blogger has written a gem of a book on eternal security and assurance of salvation.  Simple and accessible.

4. The Discipline of Spiritual Discernment, by Tim Challies.  Blogger extraordinaire and editor of The Discerning Reader Tim Challies has written the definitive modern book on spiritual discernment — why you need it and how to cultivate it.  It’s a thorough book that is nonetheless only 200 pages, including a handy study guide in the back.