Give the gift of inspiration. Missionary biographies display what a life sold out for God looks like. God uses different people with vastly different backgrounds in a myriad of different locations to further His saving work among the nations. Missionary biographies bring truth to life and show how God can use anyone surrendered to Him. Though many worthy missionary biographies pass down to us from over a century ago, new works have emerged in recent years. Here are a few recommendations of recently written missionary biographies to add to your Good Friday shopping list.

From Vance Christie: Well-Written and Researched Bios of Well-Known Missionaries

Just this summer, Vance Christie published an epic work on the life of David Livingstone. Most of his other books hit at a more popular level (and length!). His biography of David Brainerd is one of the best I’ve read. In addition, he has written biographies of Hudson Taylor, Adoniram Judson, John and Betty Stam, and Andrew Murray. His blog can give you more information.

From Ellen Vaughn: A Fresh Look at How God Used Elisabeth Elliot

In 2020, Ellen Vaughn released Becoming Elisabeth Elliot. Having read many of Elliot’s own writings like Through Gates of Splendor, Shadow of the Almighty, and the Savage, My Kinsman, I was excited to get a glimpse at the life of the writer herself. Vaughn’s book did not disappoint.

This year, Vaughn released a sequel, Being Elisabeth Elliot. I can’t recommend it because I have not read it yet. But this volume is on my shelf, and I am looking forward to learning about Elliot’s “post-Jim” life and ministry.

From M. R. Conrad: A Gateway to the World of Missionary Biographies

Yes, that’s me. In 2020, the Lord allowed me to publish, Daring Devotion: A 31-Day Journey with those who Lived God’s Promises. Last last year, I released a sequel, Daring Dependence: A 31-Day Journey with those who Found Their Strength in God. These two missions devotionals provide easy-to-read snapshots of men and women that God has used in His Great Commission work from Patrick of Ireland in the fifth century to Darlene Deibler Rose who passed into glory in the 2000s. Written in a simple daily devotional format, these missions devotionals whet the appetite for more exploration into the world of missionary biographies.

Give the Gift of Inspiration

Christians today need to read how God used people just like them in the past. Give the gift of missionary biographies. If you want more choices, check out this list of the top missionary biographies available today. Students and young adults need their horizons expanded–the challenge to step out of their comfort zone for God. Christian leaders can gain courage to press on. Every believer can benefit from the faithful testimonies recorded in missionary biographies. Spread this encouragement through your gifts this Christmas.