We asked the authors of our special section articles which books have helped them know God better. Here are their choices:

Knowing God

By J. I. Packer

Says Jill Briscoe, "This is a good explanation of theology that the layman can understand." Jerry Bridges adds, "Knowing about God is not the same as knowing Him. We cannot truly know God, however, without knowing what the Bible tells us about Him. This book helps us know and understand the biblical revelation about God." (InterVarsity Press)

Ascent of Mt. Carmel

By John of the Cross, translated and edited by E. Allison Peers

David Hazard describes this as his all-time favorite and "the first book I've read that encompasses the great range of spiritual experiences. Nothing escapes his understanding of how our spirit moves toward God." (Triumph Books)

Interior Castle

By Theresa of Avila

David Hazard recommended this book because he was so impressed with the author's deep reverence for God. (Doubleday)

The Pursuit of God

By A. W. Tozer

Jerry Bridges describes this book as a classic by a man who "thirsted after God and is a master at creating that thirst in us." (Christian Publications, Inc.)

The Knowledge of the Holy

By A. W. Tozer

Cynthia Heald says of this book, "Tozer, from his own study and heart to know the Lord, writes about the attributes of God in a scholarly yet humble way. His prayers to understand God at the beginning of each chapter are challenging and valuable for everyone who wants to know God." (Harper San Francisco)

My Utmost for His Highest

By Oswald Chambers

Recommended by Cynthia Heald who has "learned from this timeless devotional about God's character because Chambers himself knew God intimately and deeply." (Thomas Nelson, Barbour & Co.)

One Holy Passion

By R. C. Sproul

Recommended by Jerry Bridges because "Sproul presents profound theological truths about God in a down-to-earth yet inspiring manner." (Thomas Nelson)

Shade of His Hand

By Oswald Chambers

In this study on Ecclesiastes, says David Hazard, Chambers shows us the enjoyment of life (Discovery House)

Editor's Choice

Abba's Child

By Brennan Manning

Manning asserts that the key to knowing God lies in defining ourselves as His beloved. To grasp His love, however, requires relinquishment of our favorite survival strategies—most notably living to please others and hiding behind masks. With eloquence and passion, Manning urges us to lean against the breast of Jesus and listen to His heartbeat. This is how we come to know our Abba. (NavPress)