Yes. I’m the guy that gives people books for Christmas. Often, that book is a missionary biography.

Why Read Missionary Biographies?

Why? When I was a young Christian, missionary biographies brought God and His work to life. I saw who God used and how He worked through them. This inspired me to draw closer to God and to serve Him. The benefits I gained I wanted to pass on to others. So, while I might get you something fun for Christmas, you’re probably getting a book too.

Which Missionary Biographies Should I Gift to Others?

If you are looking for a worthy gift idea, may I recommend a missionary biography? Here are my top ten missionary biographies

  1. The Two-Volume Biography of Hudson Taylor, missionary to China, by Dr. and Mrs. Howard Taylor. Hudson Taylor in Early Years: The Growth of a Soul and Hudson Taylor and the China Inland Mission: The Growth of a Work of God.
  2. Evidence Not Seen: A Woman’s Miraculous Faith in the Jungles of World War II by Darlene Deibler Rose.
  3. To the Golden Shore: The Life of Adoniram Judson by Courtney Anderson.
  4. The Shadow of the Almighty: The Life and Testament of Jim Elliot by Elisabeth Elliot.
  5. Faithful Witness: The Life and Mission of William Carey by Timothy George.
  6. The Story of John G. Paton: Thirty Years Among South Sea Cannibals by John Paton.
  7. Behind the Ranges: Fraser of Lisuland by Mrs. Howard Taylor.
  8. By Searching: My Journey Through Doubt Into Faith by Isobel Kuhn.
  9. The Triumph of John and Betty Stam by Mrs. Howard Taylor.
  10. A Passion for the Impossible: The Life of Lilias Trotter by Miriam Huffman Rockness.

What If They Are Not Ready for a Full-Length Biography?

Or if you would prefer a smorgasbord instead of a feast, try one of my missions devotionals. Both Daring Devotion and Daring Dependence give snapshots of thirty-one missionaries, introducing the reader to these servants of God in a devotional format. These introductions can serve as a springboard, sparking interest in reading full-length missionary biographies in the future.

What If They Want More?

If your “giftee” is already an avid reader of missionary biographies, I encourage you to check out my complete list of must-read missionary biographies. This list is always growing and may help you find a book or a missionary you have never heard of before.

So, check your gift list. What of spiritual value are you giving others? Maybe you need to add some missionary biographies to that list!