Fans pick 100 books like A Life of Excellence

By Richard E. Simmons III,

Here are 100 books that A Life of Excellence fans have personally recommended if you like A Life of Excellence. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Book cover of Integrity: The Courage to Meet the Demands of Reality

Jerry Meek Author Of While You Wait: Finding Purpose in the “Not Yets”

From my list on Christian business leaders.

Why am I passionate about this?

It has been an incredible journey, starting with $200 in assets 45 years ago and finally starting to achieve what I had dreamed of in life and business after struggling for two decades. I learned through the value of reading and building quality relationships, with God's help, I would be successful in life and business. Based in Cave Creek, Arizona, I've spent my career building Desert Star Construction, known by clients and industry colleagues as "the best team in the luxury home business." It is an online community that helps overwhelmed Christian marketplace leaders rediscover their eternal purpose and find unending joy in their life and leadership. 

Jerry's book list on Christian business leaders

Jerry Meek Why did Jerry love this book?

In business, we all have the skills to succeed in our given fields of expertise. Being good at something does not guarantee success. Integrity shows the value of having the Integrity to succeed in business and life. Everyone has Integrity, but how well has it been developed? Like a boat, what are we leaving in our wake? It is more than the money we make; it is the relationships and results. Dr. Cloud teaches the actual cost of a bad employee, regardless of how much money they bring in. If you genuinely intend to be successful in all areas, you must understand that Integrity is the courage and skills to face the demands of reality. Maturing your character will allow you to build a prosperous life and business that will last beyond your lifetime.

By Henry Cloud,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Integrity as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

In "Integrity", Dr. Cloud explores the six qualities of character that define integrity. He uses stories from well-known business leaders like Michael Dell and sports figures like Tiger Woods to illustrate each of these qualities. He shows us how people with integrity: are able to connect with others and build trust; are oriented toward reality; finish well; embrace the negative; are oriented toward increase; have an understanding of the transcendent; and, success is not related to only talent or brains. There are a lot of bright, talented people who are never successful. And the most successful are not only the…


Book cover of God in the Marketplace: 45 Questions Fortune 500 Executives Ask About Faith, Life, and Business

Jerry Meek Author Of While You Wait: Finding Purpose in the “Not Yets”

From my list on Christian business leaders.

Why am I passionate about this?

It has been an incredible journey, starting with $200 in assets 45 years ago and finally starting to achieve what I had dreamed of in life and business after struggling for two decades. I learned through the value of reading and building quality relationships, with God's help, I would be successful in life and business. Based in Cave Creek, Arizona, I've spent my career building Desert Star Construction, known by clients and industry colleagues as "the best team in the luxury home business." It is an online community that helps overwhelmed Christian marketplace leaders rediscover their eternal purpose and find unending joy in their life and leadership. 

Jerry's book list on Christian business leaders

Jerry Meek Why did Jerry love this book?

This book allowed me to read 45 questions from Fortune 500 executives asking about faith, life, and business. Have you ever felt you were missing the answers to success in business? If you aren't getting what you need to know, you may not ask the right questions. With God in The Marketplace, we see the emphasis on not letting anyone do your thinking for you. We all consider what we can do to change our family, business, and church. Nothing can happen without first seeing how God wants to transform us. We all know that without solving problems, our company has no profits; by applying the principles in the book and trusting God, we can become more like Christ in every situation. When you finish this book, you will realize that God will raise you up, and people will observe your conduct as a Christian Businessperson. At the end…

By Henry T. Blackaby, Richard Blackaby,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked God in the Marketplace as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Aside from Experiencing God, Henry Blackaby has made his greatest impact by ministering directly to Fortune 100 and 500 CEOs, advising them on how to effectively blend their faith with their business. Out of that ministry’s success comes God in the Marketplace, a book to help everyone from the front desk to the executive suite best experience God’s will in his or her work.

Blackaby believes that just as Jesus had businessmen among His original disciples, so may God be calling out businesspeople today in preparation for a worldwide spiritual revival. However, while those in the marketplace may have excellent…


Book cover of Jesus, CEO: Using Ancient Wisdom for Visionary Leadership

Jerry Meek Author Of While You Wait: Finding Purpose in the “Not Yets”

From my list on Christian business leaders.

Why am I passionate about this?

It has been an incredible journey, starting with $200 in assets 45 years ago and finally starting to achieve what I had dreamed of in life and business after struggling for two decades. I learned through the value of reading and building quality relationships, with God's help, I would be successful in life and business. Based in Cave Creek, Arizona, I've spent my career building Desert Star Construction, known by clients and industry colleagues as "the best team in the luxury home business." It is an online community that helps overwhelmed Christian marketplace leaders rediscover their eternal purpose and find unending joy in their life and leadership. 

Jerry's book list on Christian business leaders

Jerry Meek Why did Jerry love this book?

I like Jesus, CEO for many reasons. I read it when it first came out in the mid-1990s. It is a staple in my library because the principles it brings forth are timeless. It focuses on the strength of self-mastery, action, and relationships. These were crucial elements that Jesus used with the disciples. I was challenged to see life's opportunities and do something new to celebrate them. We all want the next big thing, yet it is ok to start small and do your best. It was the realization that we all want to be successful in business but are we taking time for people in need? Jesus always had a plan and gave clear instructions. Lastly, when profit is the only measurement, the results lead to exploitation. Jesus changed the measure from self to others, and He came to give and not to get.

By Laurie Beth Jones,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Jesus, CEO as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Bestselling author Laurie Beth Jones brings you the ultimate guide to transforming your team and sparking inspiration in your business. In Jesus, CEO, Jones compares Jesus to a CEO who turned a disorganized "staff" of twelve into a thriving, long-lasting enterprise. Now more than ever, employees expect their leaders to be motivating, understanding, and ready to follow up their words with actions. With the twenty-fifth anniversary edition of Jesus, CEO, Jones revises and updates her original modernized guidance, ensuring that everyone can continue to apply the ancient wisdom pulled straight from the Bible.

Filled with fresh, practical, and profound advice,…


If you love A Life of Excellence...

Ad

Book cover of The Essence: A Guided Journey of Discovery through the Bible

The Essence By John Pasquet,

The Bible is the greatest mystery novel ever written. It begins in the Old Testament with seemingly random accounts of ancient people in far away places with strange customs. There’s the prophecy of a coming Hero who will conquer the villain and restore peace to the land. The mystery reaches…

Book cover of Trusting God

Jerry Meek Author Of While You Wait: Finding Purpose in the “Not Yets”

From my list on Christian business leaders.

Why am I passionate about this?

It has been an incredible journey, starting with $200 in assets 45 years ago and finally starting to achieve what I had dreamed of in life and business after struggling for two decades. I learned through the value of reading and building quality relationships, with God's help, I would be successful in life and business. Based in Cave Creek, Arizona, I've spent my career building Desert Star Construction, known by clients and industry colleagues as "the best team in the luxury home business." It is an online community that helps overwhelmed Christian marketplace leaders rediscover their eternal purpose and find unending joy in their life and leadership. 

Jerry's book list on Christian business leaders

Jerry Meek Why did Jerry love this book?

Trusting God reinforced the benefit of putting our faith into action. It was constructive learning what will happen when we view our circumstances through the eyes of faith, faith in God! We see the simple yet profound knowledge that no detail in our life is insignificant to our creator. If you believe in Christ, you will see that God has a plan and the power to carry out your life's pursuit. As your trust grows, so will your personal and business success. We will gain confidence to see that our true destinies are in His hands, not anyone else's. God Guides us step by step. When we trust, we will avoid needless detours. No matter what happens in your life, you will see that nothing is impossible for God and that things meant for your harm will turn into something good when you trust God.

By Jerry Bridges,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Trusting God as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Over 500,000 copies sold

“Why is God allowing this? What have I done wrong?”
Many of us have asked these questions when life hits us hard. When our circumstances defy explanation, it is difficult to untangle our emotions from the truth. Before long, we feel confused and frustrated. We doubt His care for us. We wonder how He could allow these circumstances at all, or if He is really in control.

During a time of darkness and adversity in his own life, Jerry Bridges dug deep into the Bible for answers on God’s sovereignty. What he learned changed his life—and…


Book cover of Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life

Jeff Bernier Author Of The Money and Meaning Journey: A Guide to Clarity, Financial Confidence, and Joy

From my list on financial peace in retirement.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a wealth advisor for over 37 years, I find many people reach retirement lacking clarity and confidence. Traditional financial advice often focuses on things that are unknowable, uncontrollable, and frankly don’t matter that much. While sound technical investment, estate, and tax planning are critical, the soul’s need for meaning and purpose are as important as sound financial plans. The path to true financial peace may be simpler than you think. These books can help you focus on the fewer, more critical things so that you can thrive in retirement and free yourself from financial media which is not in business to support your vision of a meaningful life.

Jeff's book list on financial peace in retirement

Jeff Bernier Why did Jeff love this book?

Bob Buford introduced me to this book at the Halftime Institute in 2013.

I found this book when I was going through a difficult season - a “falling". This book has helped me understand that much of what we judge as challenges or “falling” is the raw material for personal and spiritual growth. 

And that through the wisdom and insights of these challenges, the second half can be a time of great joy and excitement. I re-read it annually.

By Richard Rohr,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked Falling Upward as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A fresh way of thinking about spirituality that grows throughout life In Falling Upward , Fr. Richard Rohr seeks to help readers understand the tasks of the two halves of life and to show them that those who have fallen, failed, or "gone down" are the only ones who understand "up." Most of us tend to think of the second half of life as largely about getting old, dealing with health issues, and letting go of life, but the whole thesis of this book is exactly the opposite. What looks like falling down can largely be experienced as "falling upward."…


Book cover of Discovering Hope: Beginning the Journey Toward Hope in Chronic Illness

Christopher Martin Author Of Finding Joy with an Invisible Chronic Illness: Proven Strategies for Discovering Happiness, Meaning, and Fulfillment

From my list on chronic illness for Christians on wisdom and joy.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a school psychologist and Christian who has lived with multiple debilitating chronic illnesses for 25 years. As a result, I am all too familiar with how disruptive and life-changing they can be to our daily lives. Yet few books exist that offer practical guidance for living with chronic illness. And even fewer of these books are for Christian readers. Written with different areas of expertise and angles, my book and the books below fill this gap. I hope you enjoy these books as much as I have!

Christopher's book list on chronic illness for Christians on wisdom and joy

Christopher Martin Why did Christopher love this book?

As part of the Chronic Joy Thrive Series, President and Co-founder of Chronic Joy Ministry Cindee Snider Re offers a very useful book that consists of part devotional and part workbook. This is not a book to be simply read and passively absorbed; it is a book in which you will fill in the blanks on Bible verses, journal your thoughts, and answer reflection questions as they relate to your chronic illness and walk with Christ. Whether you use this alone or in a group setting, I found it comforting that Cindee walks alongside you, sharing experiences, scriptural insights, and pointing you to whom you can trust. No doubt this will strengthen your faith while dealing with the challenge of chronic illness.  

By Cindee Snider Re,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Discovering Hope as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Discovering Hope is a 10-chapter study inviting you to embrace a new perspective, celebrate the small victories, wrestle with difficult questions, and learn to laugh again. Often.No matter how dark the days, how wild the storm, how deep the valley or how long with winter, there is hope. There is always hope.


If you love Richard E. Simmons III...

Ad

Book cover of Today Was A Good Day: A Collection of Essays From The Heart Of A Neurosurgeon

Today Was A Good Day By Edward Benzel,

My book is a collection of monthly Editor-in-Chief letters to the readership of World Neurosurgery, a journal that I edit. Each essay is short and sweet. The letters were written for neurosurgeons but have been re-edited so that they apply to all human beings. They cover topics such as leadership,…

Book cover of Count Me In

Heidi Gray McGill Author Of Dial P for Perfect

From my list on Christian curvy-girl romantic comedies.

Why am I passionate about this?

My research for Dial P for Perfect came from deep within. I've always considered myself on the heavier side of the scale. Being measured for a costume for Brigadoon as a High School Junior was traumatic. The moms that volunteered that day may not have said the words, but I heard them in my mind. I felt "less than," or bigger than, as the case may be. Identifying with Ginger in Dial P for Perfect was easy for me, and I felt her pains and triumphs, her fears, and her confusion.

Heidi's book list on Christian curvy-girl romantic comedies

Heidi Gray McGill Why did Heidi love this book?

Mikal Dawn knows how to write a romantic comedy with equal parts rom and com. Mikal blends these genres into an unforgettable story that will keep you on the tips of your tingling toes. Her characters are authentic and believable. Mikal’s ability to seamlessly weave in a spiritual theme throughout the story leaves your heart full of the knowledge that God loves each of us. Prepare to laugh, fan your face, and wipe your tears all in the span of a single page. This debut novel will not disappoint.

By Mikal Dawn,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Count Me In as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

*This is a romantic comedy with a Christian worldview.Allegra Spencer has been living a careful life. Her safe job as an accountant is bookended by going to church and the gym. Okay, sometimes the gym. Fine. She goes to church. And the coffee shop. She avoids risk at all cost, preferring to stay safe in her cozy condo. Until her accounting firm goes belly up and she's out of a job. Tyler Hawk had a glorious career as a star NFL tight end. He retired on a high note and now lives a second dream of owning his own business…


Book cover of Faith Under Pressure

M. Liz Boyle Author Of Avalanche

From my list on fiction to encourage Christian teens in their faith.

Why am I passionate about this?

Hey there, readers! One afternoon during my children’s naptime, I read a couldn’t-put-it-down young adult adventure story. It totally drew me in, but as much as I enjoyed it, I distinctly wished it had included Christian morals. The goal of my writing is to give God glory and encourage readers to grow in their faith. My hope is that seeing relatable characters choosing to let God’s light shine through them, even during hard situations, will inspire readers to trust God and strengthen their faith. Be inspired along with me when the characters in this book list courageously make the right choice.

M. Liz's book list on fiction to encourage Christian teens in their faith

M. Liz Boyle Why did M. Liz love this book?

While most of us won’t suddenly move from being homeschooled in an African village to attending a huge high school in California, readers can learn so much from Katie!

If you love books that emphasize strong families and congenial characters who face relevant issues, you’ll love Faith Under Pressure.

I was inspired by the respect within Katie’s family, her desire to bloom where she’s planted, and her commitment to start a Christian club at school.

When agreeing to tutor a bully threatens her new friendships, Katie faces a new level of anxiety, and her faith will be tested like never before. 

Book cover of The Emotionally Destructive Marriage: How to Find Your Voice and Reclaim Your Hope

Renee Smith Ettline Author Of Peace After Divorce: Choosing Concrete Actions Rooted in Faith

From my list on Christian books on healing from divorce.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have a passion for helping people move past the pain of divorce because I’ve been there myself. As a counselor I knew what I needed to do to cope and heal but I also quickly realized the importance of making prayerful decisions and trusting God. It’s my joy to walk you through steps you can take to cope now and move to a brighter future. My education, career, faith, and experiences have resulted in my book Peace after Divorce being recognized as an exemplary Christian self-help book by the Illumination Book Awards. 

Renee's book list on Christian books on healing from divorce

Renee Smith Ettline Why did Renee love this book?

So many women have silently suffered abuse for years in the name of trying to do what they believe God would have them do. Sadly, their well-meaning efforts, and at times misunderstanding of the Scriptures, can actually feed the destructive cycle in their marriages. In this book, Leslie Vernick reaches out to the reader with practical strategies for recognizing emotional abuse and taking steps to break free of its bondage. She outlines what needs to happen for hope to be restored in a marriage and shares how to leave if the cycle of destruction continues. Many women I’ve worked with through my groups and Peace after Divorce Workshops have cited that this book literally saved their lives.

By Leslie Vernick,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Emotionally Destructive Marriage as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Something Has to Change…
 
You can’t put it into words, but something is happening to you. Your stomach churns, your heart aches, and the tension in your marriage is making you feel weary and a little crazy. The constant criticism, disrespect, cruelty, deceit, and gross indifference are eroding your confidence and breaking your spirit.    
 
For any woman caught in an emotionally destructive marriage, Leslie Vernick offers a personalized path forward. Based on decades of counseling experience, her intensely practical, biblical advice will show you how to establish boundaries and break free from emotional abuse. Learn to:
 
·         identify damaging behaviors…


If you love A Life of Excellence...

Ad

Book cover of Free Your Joy: The Twelve Keys to Sustainable Happiness

Free Your Joy By Lisa McCourt,

We all want peace. We all want a life of joy and meaning. We want to feel blissfully comfortable in our own skin, moving through the world with grace and ease. But how many of us are actively taking the steps to create such a life? 

In Free Your Joy…

Book cover of Reading Ruth: Contemporary Women Reclaim a Sacred Story

Christina St. Clair Author Of Naomi and Ruth: Loyalty Among Women

From my list on women whose spiritual understanding is enlightening.

Why am I passionate about this?

One Christmas Eve many years ago when I was a little girl, I was too excited to sleep. I prayed to the baby Jesus whom I’d heard about in carols. I felt wrapped in love and woke up well-rested on Christmas morning. I’ve always believed life is a spiritual journey: I respect and learn from many religious and secular traditions. After I joined a church, I became a spiritual director. When I was sixty, I earned an MA in pastoral ministry and women’s studies. I have pastored two churches and also became a preacher—something I could not imagine I’d ever be able to do. It’s never too late!

Christina's book list on women whose spiritual understanding is enlightening

Christina St. Clair Why did Christina love this book?

This somewhat academic collection of articles, essays, and poems began in a Boston living room when a group of Jewish women recognized that traditional Jewish study was invariably seen through the lens of men. These women had formerly dismissed the Book of Ruth as irrelevant to them, nothing more than a tale about an old man marrying a younger woman.

They decided to compile a commentary about the Book of Ruth using female voices. These writings encouraged me to compile my own midrash (interpretation) and deeply impressed me with their understanding that this Biblical story is relevant for women today to explore powerlessness, vulnerability, loss, women mourning and rejoicing, and relationships.

By Judith A. Kates (editor), Gail Twersky Reimer (editor),

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Reading Ruth as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

"The Book of Ruth is one of Western civilization's great narratives of women's relationships. This collection of modern-day interpretations brings together the wisdom, sensitivity, and spirituality of the biblical story with the struggles and insights of contemporary women. Readers will be moved and inspired by these essays."
--Susannah Heschel
Editor of On Being a Jewish Feminist
With Reading Ruth, two creative scholars have brought together an amazingly eclectic group of Jewish novelists, essayists, poets, rabbis, psychologists, and scholars--including Cynthia Ozick, Marge Piercy, Francine Klagsbrun, and Nessa Rapoport--to explore one of the most beloved stories in the Bible. In lively essays,…


Book cover of Integrity: The Courage to Meet the Demands of Reality
Book cover of God in the Marketplace: 45 Questions Fortune 500 Executives Ask About Faith, Life, and Business
Book cover of Jesus, CEO: Using Ancient Wisdom for Visionary Leadership

Share your top 3 reads of 2024!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,588

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in Christianity, wisdom, and business?

Christianity 686 books
Wisdom 21 books
Business 2,814 books