10 Best Sellers (Other than the Holy Bible) I Enjoyed Reading

As a devoted Christian, my journey with literature extends beyond the sacred texts that have shaped my faith. While the Holy Bible remains the best seller in the world and the ultimate guide in my life, I have found profound inspiration in a diverse array of best-selling books that illuminate different facets of life, from leadership and personal growth to history and espionage. Each of these works has enriched my understanding of the world and deepened my appreciation for the complexities of human experience. In this blog post, I invite you to explore ten best sellers that have left an indelible mark on me, offering insights and lessons that resonate far beyond their pages. Whether you seek strategic wisdom, spiritual nourishment, or a glimpse into global affairs, some of these books are sure to captivate and enlighten you, even enriching your literary journey alongside the teachings of the Bible. [Images: SR Productions]

1. The Art of War

Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak. The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting. If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat.

– Sun Tzu

“The Art of War” is an ancient Chinese military treatise attributed to Sun Tzu, a military strategist and philosopher. Despite being written over two millennia ago, its teachings on strategy, leadership, and warfare remain relevant even in the modern corporate world and political arena also. The book’s insights transcend military applications, offering valuable lessons in personal development, business strategy, and competitive tactics. It emphasizes the importance of preparation, flexibility, and understanding one’s enemy. By internalizing these principles, readers can improve their problem-solving skills, strategic thinking, and adaptability in various life situations. Whether you’re navigating corporate politics or personal challenges, “The Art of War” provides timeless wisdom for achieving success and overcoming obstacles.

2. The God Delusion

Religion is a powerful force, and, as such, is capable of driving people to do things that they might otherwise never have considered. It can be a political bandwagon, a force for uniting disparate groups under a common cause, or a convenient badge of identity. Once people are caught up in the fervour of religion, they can be swept along by the momentum, sometimes to the point of committing acts that would otherwise be unthinkable.

– Richard Dawkins

“The God Delusion” by Richard Dawkins is a provocative critique of religion and the belief in God, written from an atheist perspective. For Christians, engaging with this book can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. Dawkins presents arguments against the existence of God, critiques organized religion, and advocates for a secular worldview grounded in science and reason. Reading “The God Delusion” from a Christian perspective can strengthen one’s faith by providing an opportunity to confront and address doubts and questions. It encourages Christians to delve deeper into their beliefs, understand the basis for their faith, and articulate their positions more clearly. By grappling with Dawkins’ arguments, Christians can develop a more robust and reasoned understanding of their convictions, fostering intellectual humility and open-mindedness. This book serves as a reminder of the importance of engaging with opposing viewpoints and deepening one’s understanding of their faith.

3. My Adventure in Faith

God’s faithfulness is the bedrock of my journey. In every challenge, His hand has been evident, guiding me through storms and celebrations alike. This adventure in faith has taught me that with God, all things are possible.

Rev. Colton Wickramaratne

“My Adventure in Faith” is a deeply personal account of the late Rev. Colton Wickramaratne’s spiritual journey and ministry. This book is filled with stories of miracles, faith, and the transformative power of God’s love. Rev. Wickramaratne shares his experiences of divine encounters, healing, and the impact of faith in his life and the lives of others. His testimony is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary things that can happen when one trusts in God and embraces a life of faith. For believers, “My Adventure in Faith” is an inspiring read that encourages a deeper spiritual connection and a greater reliance on God’s guidance. It is a testament to the power of unwavering faith and the miracles that can unfold when one fully surrenders to God’s will. This book is a source of encouragement and inspiration for anyone looking to strengthen their faith and experience the transformative power of God’s love in their own lives.

Note: If you are living in Sri Lanka you can purchase your copy of “My Adventure in Faith” (Sinhala, Tamil, or English) by visiting the Impetus Ministries in Colombo 05. (Tel: 011-2580012) Click here to order via Amazon (English Only).

4. The Purpose Driven Life

True humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less. Humility is thinking more of others.

– Rick Warren

Rick Warren’s “The Purpose Driven Life” has transformed the lives of millions by helping them discover their God-given purpose. The book is structured as a 40-day spiritual journey, with each chapter focusing on a different aspect of living a purpose-driven life. Warren uses scripture and personal anecdotes to guide readers through understanding their place in God’s plan. He addresses the fundamental questions of existence: Why am I here? What is my purpose? How can I live a meaningful life? This book is particularly valuable for those feeling lost, directionless, or seeking a deeper connection with their faith. It provides a clear framework for understanding your purpose and encourages you to live a life that honours God and serves others. By embracing the principles in this book, readers can find greater fulfilment, joy, and clarity in their daily lives.

5. The Greatness Guide

Your ‘I Can’ is more important than your IQ. The quality of your mindset, how you manage your time, and your personal dedication to excellence are the key factors that will determine your success.

– Robin Sharma

“The Greatness Guide” by Robin Sharma is a collection of tips and insights on achieving personal and professional greatness. Sharma, a renowned leadership expert and motivational speaker, offers practical advice on a wide range of topics, including leadership, productivity, and self-improvement. Each chapter is a short, powerful lesson designed to inspire and motivate readers to reach their full potential. Sharma’s guidance is grounded in real-world experience and timeless principles, making it accessible and relevant to readers from all walks of life. “The Greatness Guide” encourages readers to embrace excellence, develop their leadership skills, and pursue their goals with passion and perseverance. It is a perfect read for anyone seeking to enhance their personal growth, cultivate a positive mindset, and live a life of purpose and impact. By implementing the lessons in this book, readers can unlock their potential and achieve greatness in every area of their lives.

6. Unfinished: A Memoir

“I never wanted to fit in. I wanted to stand out. And the moment I embraced that, everything changed. Success isn’t about conforming; it’s about carving your own path, embracing your uniqueness, and pushing beyond boundaries.”

– Priyanka Chopra

“Unfinished” is the memoir of Priyanka Chopra Jonas, an actress, producer, and global icon. Her story is one of resilience, ambition, and breaking barriers, making it an inspiring read for anyone looking to carve their path in life. Chopra Jonas shares her journey from her childhood in India to her rise in Hollywood, offering candid reflections on the challenges she faced and the lessons she learned along the way. She discusses her experiences with racism, sexism, and the pressures of fame, providing a raw and honest account of her life. “Unfinished” is not just a celebrity memoir; it is a testament to the power of determination. Chopra Jonas’ story encourages readers to pursue their dreams with relentless determination, overcome adversity, and stay true to themselves. This memoir is a powerful reminder that success is a journey, not a destination and that the path to achieving one’s goals is often filled with challenges and opportunities for growth.

7. Purpose Driven Church

Healthy churches are built on purpose! By focusing your church on the five New Testament purposes, you will develop healthy, balanced growth and will bring glory to God.

– Rick Warren

“Purpose Driven Church” by Rick Warren offers invaluable insights into building a healthy, growing church. Drawing from his experience as the pastor of Saddleback Church, Warren presents a model for church growth centred on five biblical purposes: worship, ministry, mission, fellowship, and discipleship. This book provides practical advice on creating a purpose-driven church culture, developing effective leadership, and reaching the community. For church leaders and members alike, “Purpose Driven Church” is a comprehensive guide to fostering a vibrant, mission-oriented congregation. By focusing on God’s purposes, churches can experience renewed energy, growth, and impact in their communities. I read this book to plan a social media campaign for a church I once worked for, and it offered me a clear, purpose-driven approach to ministry that has proven both practical and inspiring.

8. The Village by the Sea

In the end, Lila and Hari learn that they must find their own way, balancing tradition with change, and discovering the strength within themselves to create a better future.

– Anita Desai

The Village by the Sea” by Anita Desai although it’s fiction has a special place in my heart because it’s a gift from my good friend Chathu, and was developed into an English television series I watched when I was a kid. It’s a poignant story of survival and resilience set in a small Indian village. (In the television series it’s a small Sri Lankan village.) It follows the lives of two siblings, Lila and Hari, as they navigate the challenges of poverty and familial responsibilities. Desai’s lyrical prose and vivid descriptions bring the village and its inhabitants to life, capturing the beauty and harshness of rural, coastal Sri Lanka. The story highlights the strength of familial bonds and the impact of modernization on traditional communities. “The Village by the Sea” is a touching exploration of hope, determination, and the human spirit’s ability to endure. For a man who had watched the teledrama based on this book when he was young, reading the novel deepened my appreciation for its rich narrative and emotional depth.

9. Spy Chronicles: RAW, ISI and the Illusion of Peace

There’s no neat and happy ending to the story of India and Pakistan. It’s a saga of intrigue, mistrust, and occasional cooperation—a perpetual chess game played on the grandest scale.

– A.S. Dulat

“Spy Chronicles” is a groundbreaking dialogue between the former chiefs of India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Co-authored by A.S. Dulat, Asad Durrani, and Aditya Sinha, this book provides a unique and candid perspective on the complex relationship between these two rival intelligence agencies and their respective nations. The authors discuss a wide range of topics, including the Kashmir conflict, terrorism, and the quest for peace in the region. Their conversations offer rare insights into the inner workings of intelligence agencies, the challenges of diplomacy, and the intricate dance of geopolitics in South Asia. “The Spy Chronicles” is a must-read for those interested in geopolitics, intelligence, and the nuanced realities of international relations. It sheds light on the delicate balance between cooperation and rivalry, the human element behind espionage, and the enduring hope for peace in a turbulent region.

10. Mossad: The Greatest Missions of the Israeli Secret Service

In the intelligence game, you’re often going blind. You have to trust your instincts, trust your team, and pray that you’ve anticipated every possible scenario. Because when you’re dealing with life-and-death situations, there’s no room for error.

– Michael Bar-Zohar and Nissim Mishal

“Mossad” offers a thrilling and detailed account of the covert operations conducted by Israel’s legendary intelligence agency. Authored by Michael Bar-Zohar and Nissim Mishal, this book provides a fascinating glimpse into the secretive world of espionage and the daring missions that have shaped global history. From the capture of Adolf Eichmann, a key architect of the Holocaust, to the daring rescue of hostages in Entebbe, “Mossad” showcases the bravery, ingenuity, and moral complexities involved in intelligence work. The book also highlights the human element behind these operations, shedding light on the agents’ sacrifices and the ethical dilemmas they face. For readers interested in history, international relations, or espionage, “Mossad” is both informative and gripping. It offers valuable insights into the lengths nations go to protect their interests and the shadowy world of intelligence that operates behind the scenes.

Wrap Up

Throughout this exploration of ten best-sellers, I’ve uncovered a wealth of wisdom and inspiration that complements my Christian faith (sometimes). These books have not only broadened my perspectives on leadership, spirituality, and history but also deepened my appreciation for the diverse narratives that shape our world. Each work, from timeless classics like “The Art of War” to contemporary reflections in “Spy Chronicles,” has left an indelible mark on my understanding of humanity and the complexities of life. As I continue to navigate my spiritual and intellectual journey, these books serve as guiding lights, enriching my faith and offering profound insights that resonate far beyond their pages. I hope they inspire you as they have inspired me, encouraging a deeper exploration of faith, knowledge, and the pursuit of truth in our ever-evolving world.

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