how to write a christian autobiography

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Writing Your Spiritual Autobiography

By Richard L. Morgan

Foundation Principles of Spiritual Autobiography

1. Every life is a unique, invaluable story.

2. God speaks to us in our stories.

3. Connecting our stories with God’s Story is the work of the Spirit.

4. Painful memories can be healed through stories.

5. Remembering our stories creates community and the future.

6. Faith stories are the legacy we leave.

7. Stories create meaning … at any age.

Your Spiritual Lifeline

1. Draw Your Lifeline

Draw a horizontal line across a piece of paper. The horizontal line represents your spiritual lifeline.

On your lifeline write the following in black or blue ink:

At the extreme left of the line, write the year of your birth. Write it in large numerals, since this is the year your history began.

At the extreme right of the line, write the year you think you’re going to die and your age at that time (predicted death). A simple way to guess that date is to add the number of years you will live to your birth date, so that if you’re born in 1940, and you predict you’ll live to be 90, your predicted death year is 2030.

Put an X on your lifeline to represent where you are now, that is, the present year.

Your spiritual lifeline might look like this:

2. Add Life Events

Acknowledge that every life story has its ups and downs, its celebrations and crises—in the past, the present, and the future.

Draw three to five small ovals above and below the line.

Jot down in a phrase or two some of the celebrative moments of your life in the ovals above the lifeline.

Jot down some of your crises in the ovals below the lifeline.

Write just a phrase or two. Remember this is just one look at your life. If you repeat this exercise several months or years later, you will add other events. Remember that life has its joyful and painful moments; all are part of your story and deserve to be included.

3. Think about Grace Moments

Focus on “grace moments”—moments when God was present in your life story. Raise the following questions about your grace moments:

What was the moment?
Who were the significant people involved?
What were your feelings?
What were the consequences?
Where did God fit into this situation?

Close these exercises with this prayer or a prayer of your choosing.

Dear Lord, thank you for your presence with us through all the seasons of life ... through the times of milk and honey and through our wanderings in the wilderness.

Thank you, Lord, for your potter’s hands at work in all of life.

Lord, we give thanks for children; for their boundless energy, their curiosity, their love, their openness, their joy of life.

Thank you, Lord, for your potter’s hands at work with children.

Lord, we give thanks for young adults; for their growing search to build meaningful lives, for their new ideas and approaches to the problems of society, for their children and the loving families they seek to build.

Thank you, Lord, for your potter’s hands at work with young adults who are beginning their life’s work.

Lord, we give thanks for those in the middle of life; for the families they have guided into adulthood, for the life work they have built and sustained, for the faith they have nurtured in others, for the presence they provide as they walk life’s path with their parents and older friends.

Thank you, Lord, for your potter’s hands at work with those in the middle of life.

Lord, we give thanks for those grown up and grown older; for the experiences they have survived, for the wisdom with which they have been blessed, for the spiritual richness of their lives, for their witness of faith.

Thank you, Lord, for your potter’s hands at work with those grown [older].

Lord, we give thanks for the cloud of witnesses that has gone before us, leaving their imprint of life and faith upon each of us ... and upon your world.

Thank you, Lord, for your potter’s hands at work with those who have gone before us.

Creator God, we are indeed thankful that in each stage of life you bless us with your presence. At every age ... you mold and shape us with your potter’s hands into people with purpose and value who can reach out to others, touching humanity with the love that only you can give us.

Praise be to God. Amen.

Adapted from pp. 17, 35-37, 39 of Remembering Your Story: Creating Your Own Spiritual Autobiography by Richard L. Morgan. Copyright © 2002 by Richard L. Morgan. Used with permission of Upper Room Books.

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How to Write a Spiritual Autobiography

Beth Demme September 9, 2015 Blog , Church Folks , Experiencing God 2 Comments

By Beth Demme

A Spiritual Autobiography is the story of your own life and how God has been present in it. It can include your journey in, and out of, organized religion and all things spiritual.

Writing your Spiritual Autobiography is an opportunity to identify specific experiences of God and to reflect on how those experiences have impacted you.

It’s basically the story of your personal journey with God.

Before attending Seminary, I had the pleasure of participating in Sewanee University’s Education for Ministry program. We started each year by sharing our Spiritual Autobiographies. We didn’t share our entire life stories , we each took about ten minutes and shared a summary of how God had been at work in our lives through the years.

There are a number of ways to approach this exercise and I’ll include some questions at the end to guide you if you want to give it a try. In the meantime, here is an excerpt from my Spiritual Autobiography. This excerpt focuses on my relationship with churches/denominations and how that has shaped some of my theology.

Beth’s Spiritual Autobiography (Excerpt):

Not everyone’s journey with God happens in a church, but my journey is rooted there.

I grew up attending an ELCA church (Evangelical Lutheran Church in America) in a mainly Southern Baptist town. I often felt like a religious outsider because while my friends were “saved” I was “confirmed.” My friends got dunked, but as an infant I had been sprinkled. My friends were often public about their faith, but to me sacred and private felt synonymous.

I vacillated between certainty and doubt, but neither felt appropriate for conversation. Meanwhile, my friends not only memorized Bible verses, they displayed them on their t-shirts.

They talked about a personal relationship with God and getting their ticket to heaven (you can buy a whole pack of them on Amazon if you need to), while I dug into studying church doctrine and the Reformation.

A friend once asked why my church used a liturgy instead of the Bible. I think she appreciated my insight as I launched into a lengthy lesson on the biblical basis for each part of the liturgy. She didn’t exactly look joyful, but I’m sure she was happy on the inside as I explained how the lectionary worked. And I’m sure she was relieved to know that the Reformation started, in part, because Martin Luther believed the Bible should be more accessible.

I wasn’t the only one who embraced my role as an outsider. I remember when the “Christian Rock Star” Carman came to our town in the early 1990’s. His concerts always included a massive altar call where people were invited to “make a decision for Christ” by coming forward. As Carman made his invitation, I just sat there with the rest of my youth group. Finally, a boy named Eric huffed a bit and said what we were all thinking: “we’re Lutherans. We get confirmed, not saved.” His righteous indignation comforted me a bit as we sat there stoically, eight among eight thousand, unwilling to submit to the overly-emotional atmosphere in the room.

Writing my Spiritual Autobiography revealed to me how my understanding of God has changed with the passing of time, but also how those early church experiences echo even today.

I’m a Methodist now, but I still often feel like a religious outsider. I worry my understanding of God will be deemed insufficient. I feel befuddled by the idea of a ticket to heaven. I wonder about the validity of highly emotional religious experiences.

As a child, I thought of God as an overlord. He watched over us and had the power to punish us, if we needed it . Later, I thought of God as watching over us with the power to intervene and help us, if we asked for it . Eventually, I came to my present belief: God is omniscient, omnipotent, and omnipresent, but in ways I can’t really understand or explain.

For a time, I thought free will was proof of God’s detachment. Then I wondered if free will was a trap. Now I think free will is a gift of love.

God is beyond comprehension but still accessible to me. God is with me in my suffering and my celebrating. God is inseparable from me, but far beyond me.

God wants me to live a full life, detached from my possessions but completely attached to Him.

Everything I do and every role I play (mom, wife, daughter, sister, pastor, writer, teacher, lawyer) relates back to my relationship with God. I’ve been surprised at how that relationship has endured, even blossomed, in times of grief and seasons of struggle.

My relationship with God is a source of freedom. I may be an outsider in Christian sub-culture, but I’m an insider with God. I may have some mixed up ideas about God, but it’s okay because God’s grace is sufficient. I am not defined by my denomination, my doubts, or even by my theological errors because God’s love is powerful enough to overcome my humanity.

If it turns out I need a ticket to heaven, I trust God will provide it. If it turns out I needed to be saved at an altar call, to have said a specific sinner’s prayer, or to be dunked after a certain age, God will vouch for me.

He has so far.

If you would like to try writing your own Spiritual Autobiography, start by asking yourself these questions:

Which churches have I attended? Why?
Does God feel real to me?
When/where/with whom have I ever encountered God (during church, prayer, conversation, on retreat, reading, etc.)?
Have I had seasons of doubt or disobedience? What did that feel like? When did it end?
Who have I known who seemed to “know” God?

Your Spiritual Autobiography can be entirely private. If you would like to share it with me, I would be happy to receive it and learn from it. You can e-mail me or find me on Facebook or Twitter .

Tell Me Your Story: How to Write Your Spiritual Memoir

In the years since my parents’ passing, I have found myself saying, “I wish I had asked Dad or Mom about something when they were still living.” This wish applies doubly when it comes to asking them questions about their faith, since they were the original source of my understanding of God. Though they shared openly their own beliefs and stories about how they came to faith, unfortunately, I never recorded any of it. Neither did they leave behind their own record of faith. Because I have come to realize just how much my own faith journey was influenced by my parents’ relationship with God, I have learned how important it is to write – and periodically update – my own spiritual autobiography. I know the gift that a spiritual memoir can be to love ones left behind. But even more so, I am aware of the gift that spiritual memoirs or autobiographies can be to those who write them. They can help their authors better appreciate their own lives and comprehend God’s presence throughout their lifetimes.

Spiritual autobiographies can be a wonderful ministry tool with baby boomers and older adults who are thinking about their legacy and purpose in life. For many people, the idea of writing their life story is a daunting and overwhelming task. Left to their own devices, older adults may not know how and where to begin to record or keep their stories going. There are several common methods and systems available for recording a spiritual autobiography. Older-adult leaders should pick one method they trust and then experiment with this method themselves before handing it off to those they serve. Chances are, if a leader finds the method too time consuming, it will be too time consuming for the average older adult. Or if a leader finds the method is incomplete or confusing, then it will seem incomplete and confusing to the older adults.

One of the more common methods of spiritual autobiography is the question and answer method, which has proven questions that are designed to reveal patterns and common themes in a person’s life. The responses to the question form the core of a narrative which becomes the autobiography. When this method is followed, the writer only needs to link the answers together to form a spiritual autobiography.

A second common methodology begins with having the writer list the major events from his or her life and reflect on the events with the idea of looking for a common theme or unifying principle to tie the events together. This methodology becomes a guided tour of life, so the writer is able to see the moments of life that changed, challenged, and contributed to the faith journey.

Perhaps less known, but equally effective, is the methodology that begins with the desired result and reverse engineers it by working backward from the greatest faith insights one has learned in growing more like Christ.

Churches can use a variety of formats in helping older adults write their spiritual memoirs. Traditional instruction methods such as classes, workshops, and seminars in autobiography writing are common. Individual interviews by trained writers on a one-on-one basis, is another effective approach. However, this method can be expensive if the church decides to purchase a commercially available spiritual autobiography service. A creative approach for smaller, less affluent churches might be to train volunteers to conduct interviews and write the autobiographies for the older adults. This also works well as a group activity. Older adult members could be assigned to interview one another and serve as writing partners who work together on each other’s memoirs. Churches could use an intergenerational approach and ask children and youth in the church to record interviews with the older adults. One church asked older adults to bring their photograph albums and collections of pictures, slides, and images to church. Then they were to describe to the youth and youth leaders what was happening when the picture was taken. A great season to collect these interviews is during Advent and Lent. During Advent, older adults can reflect upon memorable Christmases. During Lent, they can be asked to reflect on their views about heaven and death and dying. This can be a helpful way to work with seniors in death preparation. Another intergenerational approach is to interview the adult children of older adults and their older-adult parents, asking them to answer the same series of questions about faith. The Office on Aging and Older-Adult Ministry has several sets of starter questions available for completing this task.

Whatever the method chosen to help older adults write their autobiographies, it is a great form of older-adult ministry. Helping older adults write their faith narratives can be a valuable gift for their loved ones and themselves. In writing their spiritual memoirs, older adults can see how sustaining their faith has been. They will grow in appreciation for who God created them to become in life as they share their stories with loved ones.

Below is a list of resources for help in writing spiritual autobiographies.

Spiritual Autobiography Resources

Books (in order of recommendation)

Remembering Your Story , by Dr. Richard Morgan, Upper Room Books, (2002)
Writing Life Stories: How to Make Memories into Memoirs, Ideas into Essays and Life Into Literature , by Bill Roorbach, Writer’s Digest Books (2008).
Writing Your Life, 4E: A Guide to Writing Autobiographies , by Mary Borg, Prufrock Press, (2013).
The Story of Your Life: Writing a Spiritual Autobiography , by Dan Wakefield, Beacon Press, (1990).
Voices of Aging , by Missy Buchanan, Upper Room Books (2015).
Life bio – Biography writing service geared toward older adults
University of California Berkley, Online Course in Spiritual Autobiographies
Healing Memoir and Spiritual Autobiography with Linda Joy Myers
Guided Autobiography Service

Please also see “ So You Want to Write Your Story: Do’s and Don’ts for Older Adults Writing their Spiritual Memoirs”

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Writing a Spiritual Autobiography: 6 Easy Steps to Write The Soul’s Journey

Introduction.

Within the landscape of self-discovery and introspection lies a profoundly transformative endeavor—the crafting of a spiritual autobiography. Capturing one’s spiritual voyage through life, this exercise stands as a compelling and introspective venture that doesn’t just foster personal growth but also possesses the potential to resonate and inspire others on their individual paths. It serves as a narrative journey, delving into the profound realms of one’s beliefs, the tapestry of experiences, and the intricate evolution of the soul itself.

The creation of a spiritual autobiography is more than just a documentation; it’s an opportunity for deep reflection and exploration. It invites individuals to weave together the threads of their spiritual insights , unfolding a narrative that not only articulates personal growth but also encapsulates the transformation of beliefs over time. As one delves into this narrative, the exploration is not merely a retelling of experiences, but an invitation to traverse the innermost landscapes of the soul, shedding light on the evolution and revelations that have shaped one’s spiritual being.

Key Highlights The Depth of Self-Discovery: Unveiling the profound layers of personal growth and spiritual revelation. Navigating Life’s Pivotal Moments: Reflecting on transformative experiences that shaped spiritual beliefs. Crafting Authentic Narratives: Expressing genuine vulnerability and authenticity in storytelling. Journey of Beliefs and Values: Articulating the evolution and impact of personal spiritual convictions. Lessons from Life’s Tapestry: Reflecting on challenges and growth that sculpt spiritual understanding. Universal Connection through Diversity: Acknowledging varied spiritual paths and their collective significance. Continuous Evolution of the Soul: Recognizing that the spiritual autobiography is an ongoing narrative.

The Essence of a Spiritual Autobiography

A spiritual autobiography is more than just a chronological sequence of events; it’s a heartfelt exploration of the inner self and its relationship with the world. It encapsulates the influences, experiences, and realizations that have shaped one’s spiritual beliefs and convictions. Through this introspective process, one can uncover the essence of their beliefs, values, and connections with the divine, however they perceive it.

Steps to Compose a Spiritual Autobiography

1. self-reflection and introspection.

Begin by delving deep within yourself. Reflect on the pivotal moments, experiences, and people that have influenced and shaped your spiritual journey. Ask yourself fundamental questions: What events or encounters significantly impacted your spiritual beliefs? How have your beliefs evolved over time? What practices or rituals do you follow that contribute to your spiritual growth?

2. Structuring the Narrative

Decide on the structure of your autobiography. You might choose to follow a chronological order, or opt for a thematic approach, focusing on specific aspects of your spiritual journey. Consider incorporating anecdotes, pivotal experiences, and moments of realization to make the narrative engaging and relatable.

3. Authentic Expression

Be genuine and authentic in your storytelling. Share your vulnerabilities, doubts, and moments of clarity. Honesty and transparency create a deeper connection with the reader, offering insights and wisdom gained from personal challenges and triumphs.

4. Exploration of Beliefs and Values

Outline your spiritual beliefs, practices, and values. Whether you follow a particular religion, spirituality, or a unique blend of beliefs, articulate the reasons behind your convictions. Discuss the impact of these beliefs on your everyday life and interactions with the world.

5. Lessons and Growth

Reflect on the lessons learned and personal growth that has emerged from your spiritual journey. Discuss how challenges or hardships have shaped your beliefs or led to personal transformation. Share the wisdom gained and the principles that guide your life.

6. Connection and Universality

Express how your spiritual journey connects you to a broader universal truth or collective human experience. Acknowledge the diversity of spiritual paths and how they contribute to the tapestry of human existence.

Writing Your Spiritual Autobiography: A Soulful Journey

Crafting a spiritual autobiography is a meditative and transformative process. It allows you to recognize and celebrate your unique spiritual path while acknowledging the interconnectedness of all beings on a spiritual level. Through the act of writing and reflecting, you not only understand yourself better but also contribute to a larger conversation about spirituality, human experience, and the quest for meaning and purpose.

As you embark on this journey of self-exploration and storytelling, remember that a spiritual autobiography is a work in progress. Your spiritual journey is ongoing, and your narrative will continue to evolve, just as your soul continues to grow and deepen its connection with the divine.

In the end, your spiritual autobiography isn’t just a personal tale—it’s a testament to the universal quest for understanding, connection, and the pursuit of the divine that resides within us all.

Sample Spiritual Autobiography

Here’s a sample introduction for a spiritual autobiography using the name Michael:

In the realm of self-discovery and profound introspection, there exists a transformative journey—Michael’s Spiritual Odyssey. This autobiographical endeavor encapsulates the vibrant tapestry of Michael’s spiritual evolution, offering not just a personal pilgrimage but an insightful narrative capable of resonating with kindred seekers. Michael’s story is a testament to the depths of beliefs, experiences, and the soul’s profound metamorphosis.

Michael’s Spiritual Odyssey is more than a mere documentation; it’s an invitation to explore the sacred corridors of personal spirituality . Through the art of storytelling, Michael navigates the intimate passages of belief systems, revealing the intricate mosaic of experiences that have shaped his spiritual identity. This odyssey doesn’t merely recount events; it beckons the reader to embark on an expedition through the depths of Michael’s soul, illuminating the milestones, transformations, and revelations that have defined his spiritual being.

Frequently Asked Question

1. what’s the difference between a spiritual autobiography and a regular autobiography.

A spiritual autobiography primarily focuses on the individual’s inner spiritual journey, exploring their beliefs, experiences, and how these have shaped their understanding of the divine or spiritual aspects of life. While a regular autobiography may cover a wide range of life events, relationships, and achievements, a spiritual autobiography delves deeper into the spiritual or transcendental dimensions of the individual’s life.

2. How personal should I get in my spiritual autobiography?

Authenticity and personal depth are key elements of a spiritual autobiography. Being open and vulnerable about your spiritual struggles, doubts, moments of clarity, and transformative experiences can make your narrative more relatable and impactful. However, the level of personal disclosure is entirely up to you. Share what feels comfortable, and always consider the impact of your words on yourself and others.

3. Should I include specific religious beliefs or experiences in my spiritual autobiography?

Your spiritual autobiography is a reflection of your personal journey, and that can encompass any spiritual or religious beliefs that have impacted you. Whether your path is deeply rooted in a particular faith or if it’s more eclectic and experiential, feel free to include your experiences, rituals, teachings, or spiritual encounters that have influenced your beliefs. However, ensure to express your beliefs in a respectful and inclusive manner, acknowledging the diversity of spiritual paths.

Remember, these FAQs serve as general guidance. Your spiritual autobiography is a personal narrative, and you have the creative freedom to shape it according to your comfort and beliefs.

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Anchored in Christ

KevinHalloran.net

Kevin / March 5, 2018

100+ of the Best Christian Biographies (HUGE LIST)

Looking for the best Christian biographies out there? Look no further.

Graphic - 100 of the Best Christian Biographies - List

I love how John Piper describes the value of reading biography:

Biography is such an efficient way of study. It’s got history. It’s got theology. It’s got psychology. It’s got counseling. It’s got politics. It’s got economics. It’s got geography. It’s got devotion and piety all wrapped into one good book, so it’s really valuable to our faith and life and thinking.[1]

In other words, Christian biographies offer us more than most other books. It’s one thing to learn the ins and outs of a topic, say prayer , it’s another thing to see how prayer drove the ministry of George Müller.

Over the past couple of years, I have been asked for recommendations of the best Christian biographies. Those questions gave me the idea to create the huge list of Christian biographies and autobiographies that you see below.

Praise the Lord for the wealth of biographies that testify to His faithfulness and power!

A few things to consider:

The categories below are artificial. The Apostle Paul was a preacher, theologian, and missionary; but was only included under one heading for practical purposes. I also have a separate category for women. That doesn’t mean they do not fit in other categories—this is to serve those specifically looking for biographies of Christian women.
This is an eclectic and broadly evangelical list, meaning it contains people who I differ with on some theology. I hope this list will serve a wide range of evangelicals and interests.
By no means do I consider this list comprehensive or perfect. Since I live in the US, this is admittedly a western-focused list. If I’m missing anything, email me and I may update this page.
I include links to free online Christian biographies (Kindle and PDFs) when I can. I will also try to link to movies of Christian biographies for your viewing pleasure.
While reading biographies of famous Christians can be extremely edifying, avoid these dangers .

**The links on this post are affiliate links, which means I make a small cut of purchases at no extra cost for you. This helps me cover escalating blog expenses. Thanks for understanding! 🙂

Best Christian Biographies of Pastors and Preachers

Billy Graham (1918–2018) – Just As I Am: The Autobiography of Billy Graham , A Prophet with Honor: The Billy Graham Story by William Martin (Justin Taylor’s top book on Graham)

Calvin Miller (1936–2010) – Life Is Mostly Edges: A Memoir by Calvin Miller (a favorite of Trevin Wax)

Charles Simeon (1759–1836) – Charles Simeon by Handley Moule (a favorite of Fred Sanders), Charles Simeon of Cambridge by Hugh Evans Hopkins (Nathan Finn calls this “required reading for pastors”)

D.L. Moody (1837–1899) – A Passion for Souls by Lyle W. Dorsett (a favorite of Jason Cook)

David Wilkerson (1931–2011) – The Cross and the Switchblade (Autobiographical; see full movie on YouTube )

J.C. Ryle (1816–1900) – Prepared to Stand Alone by Iain Murray, Bishop J.C. Ryle’s Autobiography

Jack Miller (1928–1996) — Cheer Up! The Life and Ministry of Jack Miller by Michael A. Graham

Jerry Bridges (1929–2016) – God Took Me by the Hand: A Story of God’s Unusual Providence by Jerry Bridges (Memoir)

John A. Broadus (1827–1895) – The Life and Letters of John A. Broadus by A.T. Robertson ( free download )

John Bunyan (1628–1688) – Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners (Autobiography; free for Kindle; recommended by Mark Dever), Fearless Pilgrim: The Life and Times of John Bunyan by Faith Cook.

John MacArthur (1939– ) – John MacArthur: Servant of the Word and Flock by Iain Murray (a favorite of Tim Challies)

John Newton (1725–1807) – John Newton: From Disgrace to Amazing Grace by Jonathan Aitken (a favorite of Randy Alcorn), Out of the Depths: The Autobiography of John Newton , John Newton (Bitesize Biographies) (recommended by Elyse Fitzpatrick)

John Stott (1921–2011) – Godly Ambition: John Stott and the Evangelical Movement by Alister Chapman (a favorite of Kevin DeYoung), The Early Years and The Later Years by Timothy Dudley-Smith

John Wesley (1703–1791) – John Wesley: A Biography by Stephen Tomkins, Wesley and Men Who Followed by Iain Murray, The Burning Heart: John Wesley: Evangelist by Skevington Wood

Oswald Chambers (1874–1917) – Oswald Chambers: Abandoned to God by David McCasland

Robert Murray McCheyne (1813–1843) – Robert Murray M’Cheyne by Andrew Bonar ( free Kindle version )

Warren Wiersbe (1929–) – Be Myself: The Autobiography of a Bridge Builder by Warren Wiersbe

William Still (1911–1997) – William Still: Dying to Live by Sheana Brown (a favorite of Bryan Chapell)

William Tyndale (1494–1536) — William Tyndale by David Daniell (recommended by Albert Mohler)

Best Christian Biographies of Theologians from Church History

Abraham Kuyper (1837–1920) – Modern Calvinist, Christian Democrat by James D. Bratt (James K.A. Smith calls this “masterful”)

A.W. Pink (1886–1952) – The Life of A.W. Pink by Iain Murray

Carl F.H. Henry (1913–2003) – Recovering Classic Evangelicalism: Applying the Wisdom and Vision of Carl F.H. Henry by Gregory Thornbury

Charles Hodge (1797–1878) – Charles Hodge: The Pride of Princeton by W. Andrew Hoffecker (Recommended by Michael Krueger), Charles Hodge: Guardian of American Orthodoxy by Paul Gutjahr (recommended by Kevin DeYoung)

George Eldon Ladd (1911–1982) – A Place at the Table: George Eldon Ladd and the Rehabilitation of Evangelical Scholarship in America by John D’Elia (recommended by Tim Keller)

J. Gresham Machen (1881–1937) – Defending the Faith: J. Gresham Machen and the Crisis of Conservative Protestantism in Modern America by D.G. Hart (recommended by Albert Mohler)

J.I. Packer (1926–2020) – J.I. Packer: An Evangelical Life by Leland Ryken

James Petigru Boyce (1827–1888) – James Petigru Boyce: A Southern Baptist Statesman by Thomas J. Nettles

John Murray (1898–1975) – The Life of John Murray by Iain Murray

John Owen (1616–1683) – God’s Statesman: The Life and Work of John Owen by Peter Toon, John Owen: Prince of Puritans by Andrew Thomson, John Owen: Reformed Catholic, Renaissance Man by Carl Trueman

Jonathan Edwards (1703–1758) — Jonathan Edwards – A Life by George Marsden (recommended by Albert Mohler, Ray Ortlund, Mark Dever and others; also see A Short Life ), Jonathan Edwards: A New Biography by Iain Murray (recommended by Mark Dever)

R.C. Sproul (1939-2017) – R.C. Sproul – A Life by Stephen J. Nichols

Richard Sibbes (1577–1635) – The Affectionate Theology of Richard Sibbes by Mark Dever

Best Biographies of Christian Apologists

Christopher Yuan – Out of a Far Country: A Gay Son’s Journey to God. A Broken Mother’s Search for Hope (Autobiography)

Cornelius Van Til (1895–1987) – Cornelius Van Til: Reformed Apologist and Churchman by John Muether

Lee Strobel (1952– ) — The Case for Christ (Autobiographical journey to faith and movie )

Other Christian Biographies (Musicians, Politicians, Athletes, etc.)

Charles Wesley (1707–1788) – A Heart Set Free: The Life of Charles Wesley by Arnold Dallimore

Ira “Teen” Palm – Hitler in the Crosshairs: A GI’s Story of Courage and Faith by John Woodbridge and Maurice Possley

Isaac Watts (1674–1748) – Isaac Watts: His Life and Thoughts by Graham Benyon, The Poetic Wonder of Isaac Watts by Douglas Bond

Johnny Cash (1932–2003) – The Man Called CASH: The Life, Love, and Faith of an American Legend by Steve Turner

Lecrae Moore (1979– ) – Unashamed (Autobiography)

Louis Dooley – Prison Saved My Life

Louis Zamperini (1917–2014) – Unbroken: A World War II Story of Survival, Resiience by Laura Hillenbrand (a favorite of Trevin Wax)

Manny Mill – Radical Redemption: The Story of Manny Mill (Autobiography)

Mosab Hassan Yousef – Son of Hamas: A Gripping Account of Terror, Betrayal, Political Intrigue, and Unthinkable Choices (Autobiography)

Nick Vujicic (1982–) – Life without Limits: Inspiration for a Ridiculously Good Life (Autobiographical)

Rich Mullins (1955–1997) – Rich Mullins: A Devotional Biography: An Arrow Pointing to Heaven by James Bryan Smith (Movie)

Steven Curtis Chapman (1962– ) — Between Heaven and the Real World: My Story (Autobiographical)

The Best Missionary Biographies (and International Category)

Andrew Fuller (1754–1815) – Andrew Fuller: Holy Faith, Worthy Gospel, World Mission by John Piper ( free PDF )

Brother Andrew (1928– ) – God’s Smuggler by Andrew Van der Dijl, John and Elizabeth Sherill

Brother Yun – The Heavenly Man: The Remarkable True Story of Chinese Christian Brother Yun by Paul Hattaway

C.T. Studd (1860–1931) – C.T. Studd: Cricketer & Pioneer by Norman Grubb

David Brainerd (1718–1747) – The Life of David Brainerd by Jonathan Edwards (recommended by Fred Sanders)

Eric Liddell (1902–1945) – Eric Liddell: Pure Gold: A Biography of the Olympic Champion Who Inspired Chariots of Fire by David McCasland (also see Chariots of Fire movie )

Henry Martyn (1781–1812) – The Life of Henry Martyn, Missionary to India and Persia by Sarah J. Rhea (free for Kindle), For the Love of India: The Story of Henry Martyn by Jim Cromarty

Hudson Taylor (1832–1935) – Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret by Frederick Howard Taylor ( free audiobook ), J. Hudson Taylor: An Auto-biography , Hudson Taylor: In Early Years – The Growth of the Soul by Howard Taylor

James O. Fraser (1886–1938) – Mountain Rain: A Biography of James O. Fraser by Eileen Fraser Crossman

John G. Paton (1824–1907) – John G. Paton: The Autobiography of the Pioneer Missionary to the New Hebrides , John G. Patton: Missionary to the Cannibals of the South Seas by Paul Schlehlein, The Story of John G. Paton by John G. Paton (free Kindle), You Will Be Eaten By Cannibals! by John Piper ( free eBook )

John Stam (1907–1934) and Betty Stam (1906–1934) – John & Betty Stam by Vance Christie

Nik Ripken – The Insanity of God: A True Story of Faith Resurrected by Nik Ripken (see movie by same name)

Richard Wurmbrand (1909–2001) – Tortured for Christ (a favorite of Randy Alcorn)

Stan Dale (–1968) – Lords of the Earth: An Incredible but True Story from the Stone-Age Hell of Papua’s Jungle by Don Richardson

Stephen Lungu (1942–2021) — Out of the Black Shadows by Stephen Lungu and Anne Combes. One of my personal favorites! Watch Stephen tell part of his story (spoiler alert).

St. Patrick (385–461) – Patrick of Ireland by Michael A. Haykin

William (1829–1912) and Catherine Booth (1829–1890) – Blood and Fire: William and Catherine Booth and Their Salvation Army by Roy Hattersley

Xi Shengmo (1836–1896) – Pastor Hsi: A Struggle for Chinese Christianity by Geraldine Taylor

Compilation: From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya: A Biographical History of Christian Missions by Ruth Tucker

Best Christian Biographies of Women

Abby Johnson (1980–) – Unplanned: The Dramatic True Story of a Former Planned Parenthood Leader’s Eye Opening Journey across the Life Line by Abby Johnson

Anne Bradstreet (1612–1672) – Anne Bradstreet: Pilgrim and Poe t by Faith Cook

Ann Judson (1789–1826) – My Heart in His Hands: Ann Judson of Burma by Sharon James

Katharina Luther (1499–1552) – Katharina and Martin Luther: The Radical Marriage of a Runaway Nun and a Renegade Monk by Michelle DeRusha

Elizabeth Elliot (1926–2015) – These Strange Ashes: Is God Still in Charge? (Autobiography; recommended by Courtney Reissig)

Fanny Crosby (1820–1915) – Fanny Crosby: Her Heart Can See: The Life and Hymns of Fanny J. Crosby by Edith L. Blumhofer

Gladys Aylward (1902–1970) – Gladys Aylward: The Little Woman (Autobiography)

Hannah More (1745–1833) – Fierce Convictions: The Extraordinary Life of Hannah More: Poet, Reformer, Abolitionist by Karen Swallow Prior

Helen Roseveare (1925–2016) – Give Me This Mountain (Autobiography)

Isobel Kuhn (1901–1957) – By Searching: My Journey Through Doubt Into Faith (Autobiography)

Jackie Hill Perry (1989– ) – Gay Girl, Good God: The Story of Who I Was, and Who God Has Always Been

Jane Grey (1537–1554) – The Nine Day Queen of England: Lady Jane Grey by Faith Cook

Joni Eareckson Tada (1949–) – Joni: An Unforgettable Story (Autobiography), Joni and Ken: An Untold Love Story (Autobiography)

Laura Perry – Transgender to Transformed: A Story of Transition That Will Truly Set You Free by Laura Perry

Lilias Trotter (1853–1928) – A Passion for the Impossible: The Life of Lilias Trotter by Miriam Huffman Rockness (missionary to Algerian Muslims)

Mary Slessor (1848–1915) – Mary Slessor of Calabar Pioneer Missionary by W.P. Livingstone

Mary Winslow (1774-1854) – Life in Jesus: A Memoir of Mary Winslow by Octavius Winslow

Sarah Edwards (1710–1758) – In Love with Christ: The Narrative of Sarah Edwards by Jennifer Adams, Marriage to a Difficult Man: The Uncommon Union of Jonathan & Sarah Edwards by Elizabeth Dodds

Sophie Scholl (1921–1943) – Sophie Scholl and the White Rose by Annette Dumback and Jud Newborn ( watch full movie on YouTube of Sophie Scholl: The Final Days )

Susannah Spurgeon (1832–1903) – Free Grace and Dying Love: Moring Devotions by Charles Ray and Susannah Spurgeon

Susannah Wesley (1669–1745) – Susannah Wesley: The Mother of John and Charles Wesley by Arnold A. Dallimore

Virginia Prodan – Saving My Assassin

Best Biographies of Biblical Figures

Abraham – Abraham: The Obedience of Faith by F.B. Meyer

David – David: Shepherd, Psalmist, King by F.B. Meyer, David: A Man of Passion and Destiny by Charles Swindoll

Elijah – Elijah and the Secret of His Power by F.B. Meyer, Elijah: A Man of Heroism and Humility by Charles Swindoll

Esther – Esther: A Woman of Strength and Dignity by Charles Swindoll

Israel – Israel: A Prince with God: The Story of Jacob by F.B. Meyer

Jesus – One Perfect Life: The Complete Story of the Lord Jesus by John MacArthur, The Jesus Story: Everything that Happens in the New Testament in Plain English by Dr. William Marty

Job — Job: A Man of Heroic Endurance by Charles Swindoll

John the Baptist — John the Baptist by F.B. Meyer

Joshua – Joshua and the Land of Promise by F.B. Meyer

Paul – The Apostle: A Life of Paul by John Pollock (a favorite of Tim Challies), An Illustrated Life of Paul by Charles L. Quarles, Apostle of the Heart Set Free by F.F. Bruce (a book D.A. Carson assigns to students), Paul: A Man of Grace and Grit by Charles Swindoll

Samuel – Samuel the Prophet by F.B. Meyer

The Thief on the Cross — Heaven, How I Got Here by Colin S. Smith

The Best Christian Biographies for Children and Teens

Christian Biographies for Young Readers by Simonetta Carr

Little Lights Complete Box Sets One and Two (individual titles also available)

Good for Teens: The Christian Heroes Then & Now Series

Compilation Book: Everyone a Child Should Know by Clare Heath-Whyte

Books Sharing Various Christian Biographies

50 People Every Christian Should Know by Warren Wiersbe

Eric Metaxas’ 7 Men and 7 Women

Feminine Threads: Women in the Tapestry of Christian History by Diana Severance

Foxe’s Book of Martyrs (a favorite of Randy Alcorn)

Iain Murray’s 7 Leaders: Pastors and Preachers

More Than Conquerors: Portraits of Believers from All Walks of Life by John Woodbridge

John Piper’s The Swans are Not Silent Series

People who (unknowingly!) helped with this list: Albert Mohler , Bruce Ashford , Bryan Chapell , Elyse Fitzpatrick , Fred Sanders , James K.A. Smith , Jason Cook , Justin Taylor , Kevin DeYoung ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ), Mark Dever , Melissa Krueger and friends , Nancy Guthrie , R.C. Sproul , Randy Alcorn , Ray Ortlund , Russell Moore , Tim Challies , Timothy George , Trevin Wax ( 1 , 2 , 3 , 4 ).

Phew! That list took me a while. I hope it encourages your heart as you contemplate God’s grace in the lives of His servants across the centuries. What a mighty God we serve!

“For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be glory forever. Amen.” Romans 11:36

[1] John Piper in “Will You Write More Biographies?” https://www.desiringgod.org/interviews/will-you-write-more-biographies.

Video: Reading Chapter One When Prayer Is a Struggle

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My Book: When Prayer Is a Struggle

Writing Exercise #1

Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your remembering.

Prayerfully consider your life by stages. Spend some time allowing memories of early childhood to arise. Ask the Holy Spirit to show you the wound(s) you need to see. Do this with each life stage. You can do it somewhat quickly, as an overview. Or you can take a different life stage for each day or period of prayer.

As you take notes on your memories, don’t worry so much about the literal facts, such as dates, sequence of events, exact places, and so forth. Memory is quite subjective and unreliable in the most literal sense. Write more about how you perceived what happened. How do you remember the event? How did you feel then? How do you feel now?

Write down as many words and phrases as you can that describe your sin or wound: regret, betrayal, horribly disappointed, shocked, still angry, I wish I knew why, if only I had done something else, and so on.

End with a prayer something like this: Holy Spirit, we have opened this painful part of my story. For the time being, I place all of this in your care. I won’t worry over it or beat myself up about it but allow you to hold it and work with it. Help me let go for now until my next prayer time with it.

Writing Exercise #2

Invite Jesus to sit with you as you review the notes you have written about the sins/wounds in your history. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and perceptions as you talk with Jesus.

Choose a specific event, sin, or wound, and talk with Jesus about it. Here are some suggestions to start:

Lord, I think this is what was going on with me when this happened…
I wish things had gone differently, but I can’t change the past. [If this is a sin on your part] I see the hurt I caused, and I see how I harmed myself and grieved you. I’m so sorry. Please forgive me. And help me receive your mercy and grace so that this memory does not get in the way of my growth now.
I still don’t understand why this happened, or who was really at fault, but it still hurts to remember this. In fact, I can see how my pain over this sometimes stands in the way of my moving forward now. Show me if I need to forgive someone, and help me begin that process.
Jesus, please tell me what you think about all this. Help me see my life—my past—as you see it.

Now, write about this part of your history again, only revised in light of your conversation with Jesus.

End with thanksgiving for the forgiveness and healing that are ongoing.

Photo by PIXNIO .

forgiveness

A beautiful gift at the beautiful gate, sin and god’s mercy.

Thank you Vinita. I ended up writing my autobiography, and just tonight I finished it, ‘though it may seem amateur, and luck of professionalusm, but thanks God it releases a thorny and sad memories however. I hope little by little I will come up the best writer in my section hehehe. If God willing. Please pray for me. I really love writing. Blessing.

Wow, this is what I have prayed for just the other night. I’ve been wondering how will I write my life story since i was a child until now that Jesus founded me through Ignatian Spiritually…Vinita, you are the answer. Thank you so much. You’re awesome.

Very insightful and thought-provoking. Can’t wait for part 2 🙂

Thanks Vinita for the methodology. It’s helpful.

Vinita, I was very excited about doing this exercise as there is a lot in my past that needs healing. After doing the second exercise I’m disappointed. I feel I haven’t been listening to Jesus properly as I still don’t seem to see things in a different light. I’m feeling the anger all over again – in fact stronger than I have felt it in a while. Where am I going wrong? Can you help please?

Thanks for your comment, Pam. We are so fortunate to have spiritual companions such as priests and spiritual directors who can help us sort out what is going on in our hearts. And aren’t you grateful that even when our prayer is “not always as heartfelt as I could like,” God’s mercy sees our effort at prayer and receives us just as we are! Peace to you.

Vinita, I agree that self-awareness is a fundamental need. When we have a disagreement with a friend and there is a falling-out what is helpful to healing in the relationship is musing on the positives of the relationship which are always more powerful than the irritations. Or should be. Jesus is a healer and his healing had no boundaries. The only people he became really irritated with (to the extent of calling them “hypocrites”) were the religious leaders of his day. Indeed, they were immune to his message because of self-righteousness. I rely on our heavenly priest’s understanding of my (frequent) sin and my prayer “Jesus, have mercy on me, a sinner” if not always as heartfelt as I could like is at least a plea.

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Three ways st. ignatius was a leader, both essential characters, st. paul and the call to adapt to radical change, summer pilgrimage, our ignatian sites.

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How to Write a Christian Biography

James withers, 29 sep 2017.

Every good life deserves to be written about. A perfect way to honor a Christian man or woman who has been a blessing to your life is to craft a biography that will share this person's life with others. Being an author of such Christian writing is probably easier than you would think, especially if you choose to use a writing template to guide your text.

Establish a purpose before writing. Christian biographies are written to satisfy a wide variety of needs. Some are written as profiles of praise, while others are produced as exercises of objective historical research. Frequently, autobiographies are confessional in nature, regardless of whether or not they are written by Christians. Lastly, many Christian biographies serve an evangelical purpose, to inspire others to adopt Christian values.

Refer to a biography writing template. If you are writing a biography for the first time, referring to a writing template will help you to save time. A template will supply a basic outline of sections & chapters of the biography, and can either be saved in a word processing file for an author to customize or can be used as a reference document to kick start inspiration. Alternatively, a writer may browse fully written biographies and make notes in hopes of manually extracting a workable template.

Discuss themes central to the Christian experience. Common themes addressed in a Christian biography include an account of a moment of conversion, accounts of adversities faced in the life of the biography's subject and the subject's relationship with the community. Most readers will expect these issues to be addressed.

Include accurate scriptural references. At the author's discretion, these biblical sources may be cited in one of 3 ways: 1.) within the text of the biography; 2.) below the text, in footnotes; or 3.) collectively, at the end of the text. Researching quotes in the Bible is simple to do online, with free search engines such as BibleGateway or the Christ Notes Bible search.

Visit a Christian writing forum for constructive criticism and support. Meeting with others who write from a Christian background provides an opportunity to share ideas, and to give & receive encouragement. At the ChristianWriters forum, registered users are able to access the Writers' Workshops (after making 5 posts in the General Discussions forums). Relating with others will often serve to add extra dimension to your work, providing the potential for new facts to be shared for inclusion in the biography.

About the Author

James Withers has authored in excess of 200 articles on eHow, expanding on journalistic experience acquired as a commentator for the newspaper of the University of Texas at Arlington. Withers began publishing professionally in 2007. Withers holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Texas at Arlington.

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February 2022

The Importance of Christian Biography

by Nate Pickowicz

Biography , Books , & Historical Theology

The blessings that come from reading Christian biography cannot be fully enumerated or overstated. There is a measure of comfort, joy, and inspiration that comes from beholding the hand of God in the lives of His flawed yet faithful servants. So inspiring are the lives of believers in history, in fact, that even the world often takes note and admires the remarkable fortitude and towering influence of Christian heroes. And while there is tremendous benefit from reading the many secular biographies available, I want to argue for the specific value and practice of Christians writing Christian biographies.

The Theological Reason

While it does not take any specific spiritual insight to retell historical events, it certainly takes a Spirit-filled person to understand and appreciate God’s providential hand throughout human history. Theologically, we understand that every Christian is indwelt by the Holy Spirit (1 Cor. 6:19; Eph. 1:13–14.) and perceptive to the things of God. In fact, the Apostle Paul notes that “we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might understand the things freely given us by God” (1 Cor. 2:12) . Further, he notes that “the natural person does not accept the things of the Spirit of God, for they are folly to him, and he is not able to understand them because they are spiritually discerned” (v. 14). Unbelievers cannot and do not accept the things of God.

We see this when we read biography and history written by secular scholars. While their research may be impeccable, their historical retelling brilliant, and their writing sublime, they lack the spiritual insight to understand the doctrinal convictions of their subjects, often treating them as anachronisms. I recently read a historian liken John Robinson, the pastor of the Pilgrims, not to a shepherd but to a cult leader. However, the biographer was doing nothing more than trying to explain to a secular audience Robinson’s understanding of pastoral ministry.

This is common in the unbelieving world. To the Spirit-less mind, Jesus was merely an altruistic Jewish rabbi, the Bible is a collection of revered writings, the Holy Spirit is a mythical force, evangelism is religious zealotism, sovereign election is loveless and strange, complementarianism is arcane, the gospel is foolishness, and so on. However, Paul is clear that believers “have the mind of Christ” (1 Cor. 2:16) and therefore understand the basic Christian truths and beliefs that are common to all saints in history.

The Practical Reason

It seems axiomatic that biographers stand a better chance of understanding their subjects if they share common experiences. Who better to understand Christians than other Christians? While the events of a person’s life are unique, there are common realities shared by all Christian believers—common experiences to every Christian like regeneration, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, and the empowering by that same Spirit (Eph. 4:4–6) .

To illustrate the practical challenges of this, for example, the Puritans are often researched and written about by secular scholars who do not fully understand or share their experiences or convictions. In addressing this issue, Sinclair Ferguson writes:

Characteristically [these discussions] have been carried on by scholars whose world is that of books and journals, lecture rooms and research libraries. But the writings they have placed under the microscope have been those of pastors and preachers. These are two different universes of discourse. On occasion it seems clear that historians have not been sufficiently sensitive to theology to be able to grasp the nuances of what is being said. 1

This is not to say, however, that all Christian history is being researched and written by non-Christian scholars who do not understand the nuance of their theology or methodology. But the problem persists when you have secular scholars psychoanalyzing a redeemed people group, for such scholars do not understand them experientially because they themselves are not of the Christian faith.

Iain Murray records that, as a budding Christian biographer, J.C. Ryle learned from Joseph Milner that

“Church history” . . . is writing which shows that “in every age there have been REAL followers of Christ.” The objective of the Christian historian is “To see and trace the goodness of God taking care of His church in every age by His providence.” In so doing, “The honor of Christianity will be supported; the value of its essential doctrines will be ascertained; and we shall have frequent occasion to state what the Gospel is and what it is not.” 2

On a most practical level, it makes the most sense for “REAL followers of Christ” to be undertaking the task of writing Christian biography.

The Devotional Reason

John Piper has said that “Hebrews 11 is a divine mandate to read Christian biography.” 3 For in Hebrews 11—famously known as the Hall of Faith—the writer, under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, showcases the lives of seventeen faithful saints. And while they’re no doubt listed as examples of faith, they function in a more immediate way for the reader.

In the following verses, the writer concludes, “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us” (12:1). Reading the biographical accounts is designed to motivate rejection of sin and perseverance in godly living. However, there is an even higher goal: “Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God” (v. 2). The ultimate goal of Hebrews 11 is to point us to Jesus Christ.

While the temptation is to marvel at the lives of the saints listed in Hebrews, John Owen notes, “Until now he had suggested that they look to people who had professed the Christian faith in the past, but now the focus is on him who is the author and perfecter of our faith. Thus the Apostle urges them to persevere in the faith and obedience of the Gospel.” 4

What about Christian biography?

In the same way that Hebrews 11 is designed to inspire us toward godliness, directing our gaze toward the Lord Jesus Christ, Christian biography should encourage us to examine our own lives. This is especially true when we read of the sinful struggles of our clay-footed heroes—we should be asking, “Am I guilty of the same sin?” Further, it should also encourage us to see God’s providential hand in their lives, sovereignly working all things together for good (Rom. 8:28) . But above all, Christian biography should showcase the glory of Christ, extolling Him as the true Hero and Champion of faith. Whereas secular biography will set its gaze on the historical figure, Christian biography will marvel and gaze at Christ, who is Himself “the author and perfecter” of the faithful.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on July 17, 2019.

From the foreword to Joel R. Beeke and Paul M. Smalley, Prepared by Grace, for Grace: The Puritans on God’s Ordinary Way of Leading Sinners to Christ (Grand Rapids, Mich.: Reformation Heritage, 2013), x. ↩︎
Iain H. Murray, J.C. Ryle: Prepared to Stand Alone (Edinburgh, Scotland: Banner of Truth Trust, 2016), 145–146. ↩︎
John Piper, “Brothers, Read Christian Biography,” DesiringGod.org, January 1, 1995, http://www.desiringgod.org/articles/brothers-read-christian-biography. ↩︎
John Owen, Hebrews , The Crossway Classic Commentaries, eds. Alister McGrath and J.I. Packer (Wheaton, Ill.: Crossway, 1998), 242–43. ↩︎

Rev. Nate Pickowicz is pastor of Harvest Bible Church in Gilmanton Iron Works, N.H. He is author or editor of several books, including Why We’re Protestant .

Covering topics including Biography , Books , & Historical Theology .

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10 favorite christian biographies, heaven: a family reunion.

I don’t know what heaven will be like, but I imagine it as one big family reunion at a feast table.

Maybe we’ll be so focused on the Lord himself that the saints who have gone before won’t matter to us.

But maybe, just maybe, we’ll get to meet our ancestors in the faith: people like David, Paul, Augustine, Anselm, Luther, Calvin, Wilberforce, Gladys Aylward, Bonhoeffer, Corrie Ten Boom, Jim Elliot, Amy Carmichael, and so many more!

Meet These Heroes on Earth: Christian Biographies to the Rescue!

While we wait to find out what heaven is like, we can meet these stalwarts of the faith through the pages of their stories. A well written biography of a Christian should give us a well-rounded, nuanced picture of its subject in light of the gospel:

His weaknesses that forced him to depend on the Lord.
The historical setting through which she lived out her calling.
His unique training, perhaps even before he became a Christian, that positioned him perfectly for the Lord’s work.
A clear testimony of the gospel and its power.
A witness to the Lord’s faithfulness throughout history, particularly in the lives of his people.
An exhortation to the reader through the example of this faithful servant of Christ.

You don’t have to read a 1000-page tome to get all of these ideas out of a biography. No, some of the best Christian biographies are beautifully concise accounts that a wide age range can appreciate. The biographies listed below are accessible to teens; many are good reads for kids as young as 8 or 10 as well.

These are my personal favorites, many of which I read in high school (*coughs* more than 2 decades ago) and still remember vividly–do tell me your favorites in the comments!

Favorite Christian Biographies

These are “library builders,” my friends: don’t buy all of them at once, but do consider adding them slowly to your shelves. Read them with your families. And share them with your friends–books are meant to be read, not languishing on shelves!

Titles are listed in rough order of age appropriateness/level of complexity. All titles are linked to amazon {affiliate links}, but feel free to search ThriftBooks and other used sites, too!

Anselm of Canterbury by Simonetta Carr . All of Carr’s Christian Biographies for Young Readers series are similarly excellent, but she does a particularly nice job offering biographies on subjects that other biographers haven’t tackled for children. These are tremendously meaty “picture books,” and are great for kids ages 8 and up (and their parents!).

Lillian Trasher: Greatest Wonder of Egypt by Geoff and Janet Benge . If your children aren’t ready for the story of Amy Carmichael listed below, try this one instead. Trasher cared for numerous orphans, depending on the Lord utterly for her material as well as spiritual resources. Ages 10 and up. For a similar Christian figure, check out a book about George Muller, such as the version by Basil Miller .

The Faithful Spy by John Hendrix . Easily my favorite read this past year, this book is an arresting, informative, and beautifully written account of both Bonhoeffer and the times in which he lived. See our starred review . Ages 10 and up.

Gladys Aylward: The Little Woman by Gladys Aylward and Christine Hunter . Short, concise, and action-packed. Ages 10 and up.

Through Gates of Splendor by Elisabeth Elliot . The classic account of Jim Elliot and his four friends who earnestly desired to be used by God to bring the gospel to the Auca/Waorani Indians and how their wish was granted through their martyrdom. See our starred review . Ages 10 and up.

The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom and Elizabeth Sherrill . A must read! This would be a great companion to The Faithful Spy mentioned above. The Young Readers Edition is quite well done and is suitable for ages 10 and up (provided you are ready to discuss the horrors of Nazi concentration camps). Ages 14 and up for the original version.

Fair Sunshine: Character Studies of the Scottish Covenanters by Jock Purves . Still one of the best treatments of the Covenanters! Ages 14 and up.

Joni: An Unforgettable Story by Joni Eareckson Tada . Excellent, all the more so in a society that seeks to avoid suffering at all costs. Ages 14 and up.

God’s Smuggler by Brother Andrew . A real-life “thriller” and suspense book as Brother Andrew risks his life to bring Bibles behind the Iron Curtain. Ages 14 and up.

A Chance to Die: The Life and Legacy of Amy Carmichael by Elisabeth Elliot . Yet another woman, like Aylward and Trasher, who became mother to countless orphans in a foreign country. Her account is a lovely one. Ages 14 and up.

What are YOUR favorite Christian biographies? Share in the comments!

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One of my favorites is Green Leaf in Drought Time by Isobel Kuhn

John Paton who served on the New Hebrides Islands (Vanuatu) in the 1800’s.

Also, Adoniram Judson who served at Burma.

Evidence Not Seen by Darlene Diebler Rose… my favorite missionary book!

My 11 year old son absolutely loved The Faithful Spy and I’m constantly looking for more like it! The layout with drawings and random facts and history was perfect for him. After he told me how great it was, I also read it and loved it.

The Faithful Spy is almost in a class by itself. I’d love to see more like it, but I’m sure they’re time-consuming and expensive to produce. Maybe John Hendrix has another subject in mind for similar treatment!

He also illustrated Nurse, Soldier, Spy: The Story of Sarah Edmonds, A Civil War Hero

How To Craft a Compelling Bio

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How to Write a Spiritual Autobiography

No matter what your religion happens to be, or if you don’t follow any religion at all and prefer your own spiritual practices, the lessons you’ve learned from your experiences can be very helpful to others who find themselves in a similar situation. Sharing your story can be very meaningful. Here are some tips to help you get started.

#1. A spiritual autobiography is not a set of memoirs.

To write this autobiography, you must start at the very beginning of your spiritual experience. What led you to embrace your spirituality in the first place? Some people live in spiritual households where it always seemed to be a point of emphasis. For others, a major event in their life brought them to the spirituality they practice today. Share about how you came to embrace your spirituality and you will be able to start your story off strong.

#2. Discuss why you chose your specific spirituality.

There are numerous religions and types of spirituality that can be practiced today. Some people even practice hybrid religions or incorporate influences from multiple faiths and spiritual preferences to create their own unique brand of spirituality. Talk about why you practice the way you do and what that means for you.

#3. Bring up the evidence of your faith.

We believe the things that we do from a spiritual standpoint because we have seen evidence that backs up our faith in some way. We see God, or Allah, or our preferred deity or deities working in specific ways in our lives and the lives of others. Talk about the times of evidence that you have seen and how that has impacted your faith and your life over the years.

#4. How has your spirituality impacted others?

Now, most religions, faiths, and spiritual practices discourage the practice of “bragging” about our spiritual accomplishments. What good is charity if you’re doing it for your own personal pride? Spirituality can impact others around you in ways that don’t involve pride. How it impacts others can also deepen your own faith and spirituality. It is these experiences that are wonderful to include in a spiritual autobiography.

#5. What have you learned from your spirituality?

There are always lessons to be learned. Each day offers new moments to examine. We all face challenges in some way each day. What are the lessons you’ve learned from your continuing spiritual practices? Where do you see these practices taking you in the future? The answers to these questions are important to include in your autobiography because it shows people a full reflection of who you are as a spiritual person.

#6. Share the challenges your spirituality has caused.

Religion and faith are one of the most divisive components of life today. We see this struggle play out before us every day. Yet at the core of almost every spiritual experience is the desire, or need, to love one another. Some even take that idea a step further by requiring practitioners to love their enemies. When you encounter challenging circumstances, share the story of that experience. Talk about the process you went through to be able to achieve an outcome.

#7. How do your spirituality affect your daily routines?

This might be the most important question to answer when writing a spiritual autobiography. For many, the goal of practicing spirituality in some form is to create a life that is greater than without it. So how has your life become better since starting your spiritual practices? Give tangible examples of what has changed and then provide a look at what you hope will continue to change in the future.

The challenge of writing a spiritual autobiography is to format it in chronological order. So often the desire is to tell the most important or meaningful stories first, but that’s not how an autobiography works. You’re on a journey. Talk about each step forward you take, the steps backward you had to take, and don’t skip parts you might feel are unimportant.

It is often that which we feel is unimportant that someone else finds to be the most profound truth they’ve ever read. So share your spirituality, faith, or religious practices in an autobiography and you might just change the world, one person at a time.

This 47-page mini-ebook gives you everything you need to start writing your own autobiography, including:

–Developing an overall theme

–Outlining your autobiography

–Choosing a winning title

–Best autobiography layouts

–Autobiography marketing strategy and more!

Your guide is on its way! Check your inbox.

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Brothers, Read Christian Biography

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God decides the future, don’t devour one another, god rules babylon, the emotional roller coaster of bible reading, how does love fulfill the law, seemingly insignificant providence.

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Hebrews 11 is a divine mandate to read Christian biography. The unmistakable implication of the chapter is that, if we hear about the faith of our forefathers (and mothers), we will "lay aside every weight and sin" and "run with perseverance the race that is set before us" (12:1). If we asked the author, "How shall we stir one another up to love and good works?" (10:24), his answer would be: "Through encouragement from the living (10:25) and the dead " (chap. 11). Christian biography is the means by which "body life" cuts across the generations.

Why Pastors Specifically Need Christian Biography

This fellowship of the living and the dead is especially crucial for pastors. As leaders in the church we are supposed to have vision for the future. We are supposed to declare prophetically where our church should be going. We are supposed to inspire people with great possibilities.

Not that God can't give vision and direction and inspiration. But he also uses human agents to stir up his people. So the question for us pastors is: Through what human agents does God give us vision and direction and inspiration? For me, one of the most important answers has been great men and women of faith who, though dead, are yet speaking.

Christian biography, well chosen, combines all sorts of things pastors need but have so little time to pursue. Good biography is history and guards us against chronological snobbery (as C. S. Lewis calls it). It is also theology—the most powerful kind—because it burst forth from the lives of people like us. It is also adventure and suspense, for which we have a natural hunger. It is psychology and personal experience, which deepen our understanding of human nature (especially ourselves). Good biographies of great Christians make for remarkably efficient reading.

My Journey With Christian Biography

Since biography is its own best witness, let me tell a little of my own biographical encounter with biographies. Biographies have served as much as any other human force in my life to overcome the inertia of mediocrity. Without them I tend to forget what joy there is in relentless labor and aspiration. I have devoted more time to the life of Jonathan Edwards (good biography of O. Winslow) than to any other non-biblical person. Before he was 20 years old Edwards wrote 70 resolutions which for years have fired my work. Number 6 was: "To live with all my might, while I do live." Number 11: "When I think of any theorem in divinity to be solved, immediately to do what I can towards solving it, if circumstances do not hinder." Number 28: "To study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly and frequently, as that I may find, and plainly perceive, myself to grow in the knowledge of the same."

When I came to be pastor of Bethlehem I began to hunger for biographies to charge my pastoral batteries and give me guidance and encouragement. Since I believe very much in the pastor-theologian, I recalled not only Edwards but, of course, John Calvin (T. H. L. Parker has a small Portrait and a major biography).

How Calvin could work! After 1549 his special charge in Geneva was to preach twice on Sunday and once every day of alternate weeks. On Sunday, August 25, 1549, Calvin began to preach on Acts and continued weekly in that book until March 1554. On weekdays during this time, he preached through eight of the minor prophets as well as Daniel, Lamentations, and Ezekiel. But what amazes me is that between 1550 and 1559 he took 270 weddings. That's one every other week! He also baptized (about once a month), visited the sick, carried on extensive correspondence and sustained heavy organizational responsibilities.

Men Who Encourage Me

When I look at Calvin and Edwards and their output, it is hard for me to feel self-pity at my few burdens. They inspire me to break out of mediocre plodding.

T. H. L. Parker (who, by the way, has spent most of his 40 years' ministry in country parishes) published a short study of Karl Barth in 1970 which I devoured in my middle year in seminary. It had a tremendous impact on me because of two simple sentences. One was: "That evening Barth began [writing] a pamphlet which he finished the next day, a Sunday [13,000 words in a day!]." I responded, "If neo-orthodoxy merits such phenomenal labor, how much more orthodoxy!"

The other sentence was, "Barth retired from his chair in Basel in March 1962 and so lost the stimulus provided by the need to give lectures." I wrote in the flap of the book, "Has greatness emerged from anything but pressure? If greatness is to be the servant of all, must we not be under authority, under demand, pushed, pressed?"

God's Various Gifts

Recently I have been greatly encouraged in my own pastoral work by Warren Wiersbe's Walking with the Giants and Listening to the Giants . The main reason these mini-biographies have been helpful is seeing the sheer diversity of pastoral styles God has chosen to bless. There have been great and fruitful pastors whose preaching patterns, visitation habits, and personalities were so different that all of us may take courage.

One humorous example: Over against the austere Edwards, who measured his food intake so as to maximize his alertness for study, you can put Spurgeon, who weighed more than 300 pounds and smoked cigars. Both men won more converts to Christ than any ten of us will.

Spurgeon said to a Methodist critic, "If I ever find myself smoking to excess, I promise I shall quit entirely." "What would you call smoking to excess?" the man asked. "Why, smoking two cigars at the same time!" was the answer.

An Example of Powerful Prayer

George Mueller has for years been a pacesetter for me in prayer. His Autobiography is a veritable orchard of faith-building fruit. In one section he tells us, after 40 years of trials, "how to be constantly happy in God." He said, "I saw more clearly than ever that the first great and primary business to which I ought to attend every day was to have my soul happy in the Lord."

For ten years, he explained, he went at this backward. "Formerly, when I rose I began to pray as soon as possible and generally spent all my time till breakfast in prayer." The result: "Often after having suffered much from wandering of mind for the first ten minutes, or quarter of an hour, or even half an hour, I only then began really to pray."

So Mueller changed his pattern and made a discovery which sustained him 40 years. "I began to meditate on the New Testament, from the beginning, early in the morning . . . searching into every verse for the sake of obtaining food for my own soul. The result I have found almost invariably is this, that after a very few minutes my soul has been led to confession or to thanksgiving, or to intercession, or to supplication; so that though I did not, as it were, give myself to prayer , but to meditation; yet, it turned almost immediately more or less into prayer."

I have found Mueller's way absolutely crucial in my own life: be with the Lord before I am with anyone else and let him speak to me first.

One other thing impressed itself on me from Mueller's life. He prayed with astonishing confidence for supplies for his orphanage. But when his wife became ill with rheumatic fever, he prayed, "Yes, my Father, the times of my darling wife are in Thy hands. Thou wilt do the very best thing for her and for me, whether life or death. If it may be, raise up yet again my precious wife—Thou art able to do it, though she is so ill; but howsoever Thou dealest with me, only help me to continue to be perfectly satisfied with Thy holy will."

His wife died, and Mueller preached her funeral sermon from Psalm 119:68: "Thou art good and doest good."

A More Tragic Example

What a world of difference between this view of God and the one I found when I read William Barclay's Spiritual Autobiography . Barclay lost a daughter at sea, but his response was not that of Mueller: "I know, O Lord, that in faithfulness Thou hast afflicted me" (Psalm 119:75). Instead Barclay said, "I believe that pain and suffering are never the will of God for His children" (in spite of 1 Peter 3:17!). To call a fatal accident an "act of God," he says, is blasphemous.

Barclay's Autobiography is the more depressing when I think how many pastors feed on Barclay for every sermon. He scorns a view of the atonement in which the death of Christ propitiates the wrath of God. And he says, "I am a convinced universalist." I can't help wondering whether the theological weakness of many pulpits is owing to the facile dependence on the anemic theology of commentators like Barclay.

I would rather stake my life on the theology of Sarah Edwards. When she heard that her husband Jonathan had died of a smallpox vaccination at the age of 54, she wrote to her daughter: "What shall I say? A holy and good God has covered us with a dark cloud. O that we may kiss the rod and lay our hands on our mouths! The Lord has done it. He has made me adore His goodness, that we had him so long. But my God lives; and He has my heart. O what a legacy my husband, and your father, has left us. We are all given to God; and there I am and love to be."

Grateful for the Living

I close with a word of appreciation for a living autobiography—Carl Lundquist, who completes his 28-year presidency of Bethel College and Seminary this month.

I was in the middle of Augustus Strong's Autobiography when the opportunity came last May to write Dr. Lundquist a letter of appreciation. Strong, who was president of Rochester Seminary for 40 years, gave me the words I needed (which shows the value of biography for sermon illustrations). He wrote, "I have always thought that there must be a future life for canal horses, washerwomen and college presidents; since they do not get their deserts in this life, there must be another life, to justify the ways of God."

Living theology. Flawed and encouraging saints. Stories of grace. Deep inspiration. The best entertainment. Brothers, it is worth your precious hours. Remember Hebrews 11. And read Christian biography.

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How to Write a Mini Biography for a Church Ministry Outreach

A biography is a document that highlights the milestones of a person's life and tells an audience general facts about him. While longer biographies often detail life events, shorter biographies also serve a purpose in introducing a person and focusing on specific portions of their lives. For example, a short biography for a church ministry outreach may introduce the person to the reader, yet also include personal and professional ties to the church. Knowing what facts to include will help you write a short biography that still provides enough information about a person's life and professional ties.

Gather a list of facts about the person. Answer basic questions such as her hometown, current city of residence and connection with the church. Put the facts in chronological order.

Write a list of specific qualities about the person. Ask yourself which qualities make this person interesting. Write the first qualities that come to mind.

Discover the person's education and certifications. In the case of a biography for a church ministry outreach, double check with the person to make sure the credentials you have are correct.

List the person's accomplishments. Tie these accomplishments in with her work for the church.

Review the list of the person's outstanding qualities and accomplishments. Choose the ones that describe her best and represent her ties to the church.

Write the mini biography in chronological order. Start with the general facts about the person, followed by her initial contact with the church. Finish by describing the qualities and accomplishments that make her an outstanding member of the church.

Let the biography sit for a day then edit and polish the final copy.

Infoplease: How To Write A Biography

Residing in Raleigh, North Carolina, Fahlen Brown started her freelance writing career in 2011. She currently writes eHow articles and has held jobs in the administrative and customer service fields. Fahlen has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from Meredith College.

Music Production
How To Write a Music Artist Bio: How To Write a Music Biography

A well-crafted music artist bio is an essential tool for any musician looking to establish their brand, connect with fans, and capture the attention of industry professionals. Whether you’re just starting out or are a seasoned artist, your bio is often the first point of contact between you and your audience. It serves as a snapshot of who you are, what you’ve achieved, and what makes your music unique. This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to writing an engaging and effective music artist bio that tells your story and highlights your career.

Why Is a Music Artist Bio Important?

Your music artist bio is more than just a list of facts; it’s a narrative that showcases your personality, your journey, and your artistic vision. A strong bio can:

Attract Fans : By telling your story in a relatable and engaging way, you can draw in listeners who connect with your music on a deeper level;
Impress Industry Professionals : A well-written bio can capture the attention of labels, promoters , and journalists , leading to new opportunities;
Boost Your Online Presence : Your bio is often the first thing people see on your website, social media profiles, or streaming platforms , making it a key component of your online brand.

Recommendations on How to Write a Good Bio for a Musician

Writing a music artist bio can be challenging, especially if you’re not used to talking about yourself in a professional context. Here are some recommendations to help you craft a bio that stands out:

Keep It Concise : Your bio should be informative but not overwhelming. Aim for around 200-300 words for a short bio, and up to 600 words for a more detailed version;
Be Authentic : Your bio should reflect your true self. Authenticity resonates with readers and helps build a genuine connection with your audience;
Highlight Achievements : While it’s important to tell your story, don’t forget to include your achievements, such as awards, notable performances, collaborations, and releases;
Use a Conversational Tone : Write in a way that feels natural and engaging. Avoid overly formal language, as it can come across as distant or impersonal;
Tailor It to Your Audience : Consider who will be reading your bio. If it’s for a press kit, focus on your professional achievements. If it’s for your website, you can include more personal details.

A Description of the Main Steps

To help you write a compelling music artist bio, here’s a breakdown of the main steps involved:

1. Start with an Interesting Introduction

Your introduction is the first thing readers will see, so it’s important to grab their attention right away. Consider starting with a memorable quote, an interesting fact about your background, or a brief overview of your musical style.

Example: “With a voice that resonates like a warm breeze through the pines, John Doe brings a fresh perspective to the indie folk scene. Hailing from the rugged mountains of Colorado, his music captures the spirit of the wilderness and the raw emotions of life’s journey.”

2. Provide a Brief Description of Your Background

Next, give readers a sense of where you come from and how you got started in music . This section should be brief but informative, providing context for your musical journey.

Example: “John Doe discovered his passion for music at a young age, strumming his first guitar at the age of 10. Inspired by the likes of Bob Dylan and Neil Young, he began writing his own songs, blending poetic lyrics with intricate melodies. After years of performing at local venues, John’s talent was recognized by a prominent producer, leading to the release of his debut EP in 2018.”

3. Describe Your Music and Influences

This is where you can dive into what makes your music unique. Describe your sound, your influences, and what listeners can expect from your music . Be specific and avoid clichés.

Example: “John’s music is a fusion of indie folk and Americana, with a touch of blues that adds depth to his sound. His songwriting is influenced by the storytelling traditions of Folk legends, while his guitar work is reminiscent of the intricate fingerpicking styles of the blues greats. Each song is a journey, inviting listeners to explore themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning.”

4. Highlight Your Career and Achievements

Now it’s time to showcase your accomplishments. Include details about your discography, notable performances, collaborations, awards, and any other highlights of your career. If you’re a newer artist, focus on the milestones you’ve reached so far.

Example: “Since his debut, John has released two full-length albums, both of which received critical acclaim. His sophomore album, ‘Whispers of the Pines,’ was named one of the top indie folk albums of 2020 by Folk Monthly. He has performed at major festivals, including the Rocky Mountain Folk Festival and the Americana Music Festival, and has shared the stage with artists such as Brandi Carlile and The Avett Brothers.”

5. Conclude with a Call to Action

End your bio with a brief statement that encourages readers to explore your music further. This could be an invitation to listen to your latest album, follow you on social media, or attend an upcoming show.

Example: “John Doe’s music is a journey through the heart and soul of America. Discover his latest album, ‘Whispers of the Pines,’ available now on all major s treaming platforms . Follow John on social media to stay updated on his upcoming tour dates and new releases.”

Additional Tips and Advice on How to Write a Bio

Update Regularly : Your bio should evolve as your career progresses. Make it a habit to update your bio whenever you release new music , win an award, or achieve a significant milestone;
Get Feedback : Before finalizing your bio, ask for feedback from trusted friends, fellow musicians, or industry professionals. They can offer valuable insights and help you refine your narrative;
Use Visuals : If possible, pair your bio with high-quality photos or videos that complement your story. Visuals can make your bio more engaging and help readers connect with your music on a deeper level;
Avoid Overly Technical Language : While it’s important to describe your music , avoid using too much technical jargon. Your bio should be accessible to all readers, not just musicians;
Be Consistent : Ensure that your bio is consistent across all platforms, including your website, social media, and streaming profiles. This helps maintain a cohesive brand image.

Writing a compelling music artist bio is a critical part of building your brand and connecting with your audience. By following these steps and incorporating the tips provided, you can craft a bio that not only highlights your achievements but also tells the story of who you are as an artist. Remember, your bio is an ever-evolving narrative that should grow with you as your career progresses. Keep it updated, authentic, and reflective of your unique journey in the music industry.

Whether you’re a budding artist just starting out or an established musician looking to refine your bio, this guide provides the tools you need to create a powerful and engaging biography that resonates with fans and industry professionals alike.

Aaron Rodgers on new bio: “It’s not a book I asked him to write”

Mike Florio

Author Ian O’Connor has taken a close look at the life of Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers. It’s been clear from the pre-publication publicity that the biography is unauthorized. And it’s an easy, yes-or-no question as to whether it is.

Of course, when Rodgers was asked that easy, yes-or-no question by WFAN on Tuesday morning, the answer wasn’t easy.

Question: Is the biography authorized or not authorized?

“ That’s a rhetorical question, is it not? ” Rodgers said, via AwfulAnnouncing.com. “Is it not?”

It’s not. It’s a real question. And it’s obvious that it’s not authorized. But Rodgers nevertheless sat for an interview with the writer of the unauthorized biography.

That gave him a chance to add his two cents to the record, while also reserving the right to dispute anything in the book that he doesn’t like.

“He did a lot of research,” Rodgers said regarding O’Connor. “It has nothing to do with me. But he did a lot of research on his own. He’s done other books with other famous people in sports. I think he reached out to 500 people and talked to maybe half those people.

“At the end before, although he’d already written I believe a first draft, we had a conversation, sat down. It was more just kind of him asking a few things. A lot of the stuff that was in there I mean is 20-plus years old. And I commend him for the time he spent on it, but it’s not a book I asked him to write for me. He wrote it on his own, and there will be some interesting things in there that are perspective-based, for sure be some stuff that’s true. . . .

“I commend him. He was trying to do a really good job, and get the entire picture. But you have to put everything into context.”

O’Connor did a sufficiently good job to teach Rodgers things he didn’t know about his own grandfather, including the fact that his grandfather went to the University of Texas at Austin. (How he hadn’t tripped over that specific fact in nearly 41 years of life is a different issue.)

The book seems to have plenty of good stuff. And Rodgers seems to be primarily interested in having the ability to embrace the good, and to dismiss the bad.

SI SWIMSUIT
SI SPORTSBOOK

Angels' Christian Moore Continues to Put Up Video Game Numbers

Maren angus-coombs | aug 13, 2024.

Los Angeles Angels

The Los Angeles Angels might be out of the playoff hunt this season, but they have a prospect in Double-A who making his case to be a big leaguer sooner rather than later.

In his first full series of professional baseball, Christian Moore was named the Southern League Player of the Week.

Moore put up ridiculous numbers in his first full week in Double-A, hitting .550 with four home runs and six runs batted in while posting an absurd 1.741 OPS.

Christian Moore is putting up video-game numbers with the Rocket City Trash Pandas. Through six games with the Angels' Double-A affiliate, he is slashing .542/.577/1.167 with 13 hits, nine runs, five home runs, and seven runs batted in.

If most minor leaguers need more than two games to acclimate from the amateur ranks to Double-A, someone forgot to tell Moore.

🏆 CMO POTW 🏆 In his first full series of professional baseball, Christian Moore has been named Southern League Player of the Week! ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/3GWytfDoG1 — Rocket City Trash Pandas (@trashpandas) August 12, 2024

Since he was drafted No. 8 overall out of Tennessee on July 14, Moore has played eight minor league games. He is 19-for-35 with six home runs, two doubles, and five strikeouts. That includes skipping Rookie ball and Single-A.

The 2024 NCAA champion was promoted to Double-A after just two games and has been dominant ever since.

The natural progression for Moore would be Triple-A Salt Lake and then to the Angels, but general manager Perry Minasian isn't saying whether or not the infielder will make his big league debut this season or not.

“We’ll see, we’re going to take it day-to-day,” Angels GM Perry Minasian said on Aug. 1, via The Athletic's Sam Blum. “Hopefully he’ll get his feet wet. Similar to what we did with Nolan last year, get his feet wet, play some games, see how it goes."

The Angels have been known to promote young draft picks quickly. Nolan Schanuel made his MLB debut after 22 minor league games last season and Zach Neto had a similar path the year before.

However, Minasian remains tight-lipped about any possible promotion for Moore.

“There’s no timeframe," Minasian recently told The Athletic. "It’s an individual that’s worked really hard to get to this point. He’s very talented. The makeup is outstanding. He’s someone that we feel like we can challenge to a certain extent. We’ll see.”

Moore hasn't slowed down since leaving Knoxville. He turned in one of the best seasons Rocky Top has ever seen. Hitting in the leadoff spot, Moore hit .375 with 34 home runs, 55 extra-base hits, and 74 RBIs.

Tennessee’s previous single-season home run record was 24 and his 61 home runs throughout his three-year college career make him the program's career home run record holder.

MAREN ANGUS-COOMBS

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Susan Wojcicki, Former Chief of YouTube, Dies at 56

The business executive helped turn Google into an internet juggernaut and became one of the most prominent women in Silicon Valley.

A woman in a leather jacket and white T-shirt sits against a dark background.

By John Yoon and Mike Isaac

Susan Wojcicki , who helped turn Google from a start-up in her garage into an internet juggernaut, and who became one of Silicon Valley’s most prominent female executives with her leadership of YouTube, died on Friday. She was 56.

Her death was confirmed by her husband, Dennis Troper, who wrote on Facebook that she had been living with lung cancer for two years. He did not say where she died.

Ms. Wojcicki’s more than two decades with Google began in 1998 in her house in Menlo Park, Calif., part of which she rented to her friends Larry Page and Sergey Brin, the company’s founders. For $1,700 a month, the two used the garage as their office to build the search engine.

Ms. Wojcicki, who had been working at Intel, soon joined Google as one of its earliest employees and was its first marketing manager. Over the years, she reached its executive ranks, becoming Google’s most senior woman employee. She eventually led YouTube, which Google acquired in 2006, and which became one of the world’s largest social media companies.

“She is as core to the history of Google as anyone, and it’s hard to imagine the world without her,” Sundar Pichai, Google’s chief executive, said in a statement .

When she became YouTube’s chief executive in 2014, Ms. Wojcicki was hailed as the most powerful woman in advertising. She had made Google enormously profitable, and she was expected to repeat the trick at YouTube. She led Google’s ad business and played a key role in its acquisition of DoubleClick , an advertising technology company, in 2007.

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COMMENTS

Writing Your Spiritual Autobiography
Foundation Principles of Spiritual Autobiography. 1. Every life is a unique, invaluable story. 2. God speaks to us in our stories. 3. Connecting our stories with God's Story is the work of the Spirit. 4. Painful memories can be healed through stories. 5. Remembering our stories creates community and the future. 6. Faith stories are the legacy ...
How to Write a Spiritual Autobiography
By Beth Demme. A Spiritual Autobiography is the story of your own life and how God has been present in it. It can include your journey in, and out of, organized religion and all things spiritual. Writing your Spiritual Autobiography is an opportunity to identify specific experiences of God and to reflect on how those experiences have impacted you.
Discipleship Ministries
Instead, concentrate on the most compelling moments, memories, and emotions rather than events. Focus on the purpose and highlight what fits the purpose of your memoir. Just as you would allow yourself to skip time, ignore meaningless events, and skip to the good stuff in a play, do so in the memoir.
Discipleship Ministries
Tell Me Your Story: How to Write Your Spiritual Memoir. In the years since my parents' passing, I have found myself saying, "I wish I had asked Dad or Mom about something when they were still living.". This wish applies doubly when it comes to asking them questions about their faith, since they were the original source of my understanding ...
Guidelines For Preparing A Spiritual Autobiography
Please explain why you have chosen this goal and how it is shaping your life. (Approximately one paragraph). II. Prevenient Grace (God's grace from conception to conversion). Please describe how God's grace was evidenced in your life prior to conversion. If you were baptized as an infant, please include a description of this and the meaning ...
Writing a Spiritual Autobiography: 6 Easy Steps to Write The Soul's Journey
Share your vulnerabilities, doubts, and moments of clarity. Honesty and transparency create a deeper connection with the reader, offering insights and wisdom gained from personal challenges and triumphs. 4. Exploration of Beliefs and Values. Outline your spiritual beliefs, practices, and values.
Writing Spiritual Autobiography as It Relates to the Spiritual
In terms of the Spiritual Exercises, one critical goal of writing a spiritual autobiography is to recognize God's action in our past: God's presence, grace, and gifts to us. If you have done the exercises of Part 1 , then you have looked at significant wounds and sins in your life story, and you have received mercy, forgiveness, help, and ...
PDF Spiritual Autobiography (To be included with the other materials
Some things to consider as you are writing your spiritual autobiography: Just as we look for God's presence and action in our scripture studies, in developing a spiritual autobiography, ... of the Christian vocation you have developed as a result. Reflect on all this before you begin writing. Make notes for yourself. Then begin writing. You ...
PDF Guidelines for Preparing a Spiritual Autobiography
s of your confidence or the nature of your doubts.This material will help you and your mentor to better understand the unique contours of you. spiritual journey and will be held in confidence. This. ll enable your mentor to be more helpful to you. Pl. 1 Source: Adaptation of material in SP775 by Dr. Arthur Thomas.
PDF How to Prepare a Spiritual Autobiography Episcopal Diocese of Eastern
items contained in it that can assist all involved in discerning your call. Use these guidelines to think about the content of your autobiography, then write. to reflect yourself, rather than to. pecifically respond to these questions.• Describe your family of origin. For. example: where born, parents,
100+ of the Best Christian Biographies (HUGE LIST)
Best Biographies of Christian Apologists. C.S. Lewis (1898-1963) - Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life (Autobiography), C.S. Lewis - A Life: Eccentric Genius, Reluctant Prophet by Alister McGrath, Jack by George Sayer. Christopher Yuan - Out of a Far Country: A Gay Son's Journey to God.
Write Your Own Spiritual Autobiography
Write Your Own Spiritual Autobiography. Moravians have traditionally kept meticulous records—of the weather, of the environment around them, of meetings, of events in the life of a community or congregation. We also ought to examine our own spiritual growth, our paths, by writing and reflecting on them. It's a way to turn our hearts outward ...
Writing Spiritual Autobiography as It Relates to the Spiritual
Today, spiritual autobiography is one facet of a broad self-help industry. People can attend workshops on it and buy books that will help them write a spiritual autobiography. The workshops and books may or may not have a Christian framework, yet they address a fundamental need for self-awareness.
How to Write a Christian Biography
Being an author of such Christian writing is probably easier than you would think, especially if you choose to use a writing template to guide your text. Establish a purpose before writing. Christian biographies are written to satisfy a wide variety of needs. Some are written as profiles of praise, while others are produced as exercises of ...
The Importance of Christian Biography
The objective of the Christian historian is "To see and trace the goodness of God taking care of His church in every age by His providence.". In so doing, "The honor of Christianity will be supported; the value of its essential doctrines will be ascertained; and we shall have frequent occasion to state what the Gospel is and what it is ...
10 Favorite Christian Biographies
A real-life "thriller" and suspense book as Brother Andrew risks his life to bring Bibles behind the Iron Curtain. Ages 14 and up. A Chance to Die: The Life and Legacy of Amy Carmichael by Elisabeth Elliot. Yet another woman, like Aylward and Trasher, who became mother to countless orphans in a foreign country.
How To Craft a Compelling Bio
how-to. Jane Daly was awarded the Excellence in Editing award for her book, The Caregiving Season, and two Cascade Awards sponsored by Oregon Christian Writers. She is also the author of Because of Grace (2015). Jane Daly is a California girl living in an Oregon world. She and her husband and two cats relocated to a small town in rural Oregon ...
How to Write a Spiritual Autobiography
The answers to these questions are important to include in your autobiography because it shows people a full reflection of who you are as a spiritual person. #6. Share the challenges your spirituality has caused. Religion and faith are one of the most divisive components of life today. We see this struggle play out before us every day.
Brothers, Read Christian Biography
Brothers, Read Christian Biography. Hebrews 11 is a divine mandate to read Christian biography. The unmistakable implication of the chapter is that, if we hear about the faith of our forefathers (and mothers), we will "lay aside every weight and sin" and "run with perseverance the race that is set before us" (12:1).
How to Write a Ministerial Biography
Include family information. Describe any ministry that the wife has served either with her husband or by herself. Edit the bio to one page of standard paper. If the bio will be used in several places, then create two other versions, one half as long and the other twice as long.
How to Write a Mini Biography for a Church Ministry Outreach
Write the mini biography in chronological order. Start with the general facts about the person, followed by her initial contact with the church. Finish by describing the qualities and accomplishments that make her an outstanding member of the church. Step 7. Let the biography sit for a day then edit and polish the final copy.
How To Write A Bio About Yourself For Church
Consider what it is about this person that piques your interest. Make a list of the first characteristics that come to mind. Third, learn about the person's background and credentials. Verify the credentials with the person directly in the case of a biography for a church ministry outreach. Step 4.
How to Write a Christian Biography: Step-by-Step Guide
Writing a Christian biography can be an enriching experience. It allows you to share someone's life and faith journey. By following these steps, you can create a meaningful biography.
How To Write a Music Artist Bio: How To Write a Music Biography
This guide will provide you with a step-by-step approach to writing an engaging and effective music artist bio that tells your story and highlights your career. Why Is a Music Artist Bio Important? Your music artist bio is more than just a list of facts; it's a narrative that showcases your personality, your journey, and your artistic vision ...
Aaron Rodgers on new bio: "It's not a book I asked him to write"
But Rodgers nevertheless sat for an interview with the writer of the unauthorized biography. That gave him a chance to add his two cents to the record, while also reserving the right to dispute anything in the book that he doesn't like. ... And I commend him for the time he spent on it, but it's not a book I asked him to write for me. He ...
How columnist Cal Thomas built a career as a right-leaning ...
He also wrote a few op-ed columns. He had a Christian and conservative perspective, but he also had a good sense of humor and ability to report stories about people instead of pontificating about ...
Angels' Christian Moore Continues to Put Up Video Game Numbers
Christian Moore is putting up video-game numbers with the Rocket City Trash Pandas. Through six games with the Angels' Double-A affiliate, he is slashing .542/.577/1.167 with 13 hits, nine runs ...
Opinion
As striking as the relative electoral weakness of the Trump-era Republican Party is its total inability to either govern or police the boundaries of its coalition.
How an Instagram-Perfect Life in the Hamptons Ended in Tragedy
That Mr. Miller's death occurred in the Hamptons during the height of the social season almost certainly has added to the intrigue, said Neil J. Young, a historian who is writing a book about ...
Susan Wojcicki, YouTube's Former CEO, Dies at 56
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Writing Your Spiritual Autobiography

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Table of Contents

The Essence of a Spiritual Autobiography

Steps to Compose a Spiritual Autobiography

2. Structuring the Narrative

3. Authentic Expression

4. Exploration of Beliefs and Values

5. Lessons and Growth

6. Connection and Universality

Writing Your Spiritual Autobiography: A Soulful Journey

Sample Spiritual Autobiography

Frequently Asked Question

2. How personal should I get in my spiritual autobiography?

3. Should I include specific religious beliefs or experiences in my spiritual autobiography?

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