If you’ve ever rolled your eyes mid-story while reading a children’s devotional or Christian picture book, you’re not alone. We’re a Jesus-loving family who also appreciates good writing, beautiful illustrations, and books that speak to children’s hearts without sounding like a PowerPoint presentation.
Over the years, we’ve found some gems—books that actually move us, inspire rich conversations, and make it back onto the bookshelf (instead of mysteriously disappearing to the donation pile). Here’s our list of faith-based storybooks that don’t feel forced, outdated, or sugar-coated—and why we love them.
📚 Our Faith-Filled Favorites
1. When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner
This book is lyrical, imaginative, and empowering. It beautifully speaks into a child’s identity and purpose with the reminder that they were lovingly created by God.
2. Indescribable: 100 Devotions About God and Science by Louie Giglio
This one is a go-to in our home. It connects faith and the natural world in a way that blows kids’ minds (and sometimes ours too). Perfect for curious thinkers like Lucy.
3. Found and Loved by Sally Lloyd-Jones (based on Psalm 23 and 139)
Short, poetic, and tender. These board books feel like a warm hug wrapped in scripture. Bonus: they make wonderful baby shower gifts.
4. God Gave Us You by Lisa Tawn Bergren
This one has made me cry more than once. It’s such a gentle, heartfelt way to tell your child how deeply loved and purposefully made they are. Especially meaningful for families who’ve prayed hard for a child.
5. I Prayed for You by Jean Fischer
A sweet and steady reminder that a parent’s love is rooted in prayer. Lucy has asked me to reread this one on repeat.
6. The Garden, the Curtain and the Cross by Carl Laferton
This picture book is simple but powerful, explaining the whole story of the Gospel in a kid-friendly, non-cringe way. Not watered down, not overwhelming—just right.
7. The World Jesus Knew by Marc Olson
Perfect for older kids with curious minds. It’s more informational, but paints a vivid picture of the historical and cultural world of Jesus. Anderson found this super cool!
Honorable Mentions (and a few we quietly retired…)
We’ve come across a few books that meant well but felt too heavy-handed or outdated. If your child loses interest halfway through, or you find yourself skipping whole pages, it’s okay to let it go. Every family’s bookshelf evolves.
Final Thoughts:
Faith-based books should help our kids fall in love with Jesus, not just check a box. They should invite curiosity, wonder, and conversations—not just deliver morals. I hope this list gives your family a few new stories to treasure and reread.
Have a favorite we didn’t mention? Let me know—I’m always on the lookout for the next good read. 💛
Raising Light 