The February issue invited us to consider rules to live by, whether individually, in formative community or at home. These books provide further reading on how God calls us to discern with Him patterns of living that foster holiness and human flourishing. A rule of life doesn’t only entail the adoption of certain habits or boundaries — the rule provides a context for experiencing the real presence of God.

“Discipleship in the Home: Teaching Children, Changing Lives” by Tammy Darling (Francis Asbury Press)

Tammy Darling lists rules families should live by. In “Discipleship in the Home,” Matt Friedeman offers “a wonderful blend of practical wisdom built on a firm Biblical foundation.”

“Faith for Exiles: 5 Ways for a New Generation to Follow Jesus in Digital Babylon” by David Kinnaman and Mark Matlock (Baker Books)

Matlock and Kinnaman describe five keys to equipping young people to be resilient Christians in an increasingly post-Christian society. Among these keys is vocational discipleship, countercultural mission, and building the muscles of cultural discernment — all qualities that describe the RevHi program described in David Reardon’s feature about the young adult discipleship community.

“The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction” by Justin Whitmel Earley (IVP Books)

Winner of Christianity Today’s 2020 Book of the Year Award, Earley’s “The Common Rule” will help readers take practical steps in adopting a rule of life of their own. Practices like eating meals with others or turning off our phones for one hour everyday realize one vision for how a rule of life, discussed on p. 24, can transform our lives.

“When God Becomes Small” by Phil Needham (Abingdon & Crest Books)

In Captain Stephanie Pavlakis’ column, she talked about the joy of God’s constant presence. Phil Needham unpacks the experience of God in the smallness of life in his classic work, “When God Becomes Small.” The book reveals the heart of the gospel and the beauty of falling in love with the small.

“The Asbury Outpouring: A Theological Witness” by Jason E. Vickers and Thomas H. McCall (Cascade Books)

Diane Ury reflects on the 2023 Asbury Outpouring. “The Asbury Outpouring” is a theological exploration of religious revivals and awakenings. The authors reflect on God’s pursuit of human persons in the light of Scripture and classical Christian doctrine. They also take seriously eyewitness testimonies to God’s presence and power in events like the Great Awakenings and the Asbury Outpouring of 2023, allowing such events to raise fresh questions and to enliven theology.