By Kelly Wise Valdes

Happy New Year! Many people, including Christians, resolve to do something significant or make some much-needed changes during this time of year for many reasons. Even if you’re determined to knock things off of your bucket list, or just something as simple as making more time for a better prayer life, the start of a new year seems to give us a blank slate to initiate these efforts.

In general, human nature dictates similar resolutions from year to year. But, as Christians, our resolutions may differ slightly from non-believers. My desires for the new year include: Growing in my faith, becoming healthier physically, managing my money better, and finding ways to maintain a happy and healthy marriage. Below are some of the faith-based books that address these challenges. Whether you believe in resolutions or just need to explore areas of your life that may need a little improvement, take the time to examine your purpose and take the steps to improve your life.

Growing Your Faith: How to Mature in Christ
By Jerry Bridges

When we realize the depth of Christ’s love for us, we want to draw close to Him and worship Him. But what can we do to deepen our relationship with Jesus? What does He expect of us? How can we be more like Him? This insightful book presents the essential elements of growing your faith in a practical form that men, women and teens can enjoy.

Made for Paradise
By Dr. Patricia Hart Terry

Christian nutritionist, Dr. Patricia Hart Terry, offers a realistic, fad-free plan to help readers return to the biblical principles of healthy eating, physical activity and rest found in Genesis. This book details how to have the health God intended through eating a variety of foods, incorporating physical activity into everyday habits and obtaining regular amounts of rest.

Your Money Counts
By Howard Dayton

Many Christians are struggling to maintain a Biblical perspective against the constant tug of materialism.

The Bible has a lot to say about money. In fact, the Bible is a genuine blueprint for managing your finances. This book will show readers how to manage personal finances in a highly practical, biblically based way.

The Love Dare
By Stephen & Alex Kendrick

Unconditional love is eagerly promised at weddings, but rarely practiced in real life. As a result, romantic hopes are often replaced with disappointment in the home. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. This book outlines a 40-day challenge for couples to understand and practice unconditional love. Whether your marriage is difficult or healthy, this book is a journey you need to take.

Previous articleU-Pick Family Fun At Dooley Groves
Next articleGrace Notes: Stinky Face
Kelly Wise Valdes
Kelly Wise Valdes has been writing for the Osprey Observer since 2008. She graduated in 1989 from Florida Southern College with a B.S. in Communications and enjoys writing and traveling. She currently resides in northern Hillsborough County with her husband, David. When not traveling and writing, Kelly and her husband enjoy spending time with their five grown children (as well as their grandchildren) that still keep them very busy.