We talked last week about thinking great thoughts. Now we want to look at a second practice that produces great Christians. Read great books! When was the last time you sat down, turned off the TV, disconnected the internet, and read a great book. Turned your phone to vibrate, and made the effort to read a book. I just started a small book, entitled “Your God is too small.” It is a small book written by J.B. Philips, that talks about us putting God in a box. It is not an easy read, but I know that God will use it to build my faith.
Paul addresses us in Romans 12:2: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Our future is dependent on us making the right decisions right now. There are two main sources of wisdom for us: 1) the Word of God; 2) great books. We have to start with the Bible, God’s Word to us. Are you taking an intentional look at what God says in the Bible? If you are looking for passion, read the New Testament. If you need wisdom and how to live, read Proverbs and the Pastoral Epistles. It all starts with God’s Word.
Next, we need to take time to read great books. To sharpen your mind, read books like Knowing God by J.I. Packer or Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. Maybe you need to inflame your heart – read books like The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer or Power Through Prayer by E.M. Bounds. One of my favorite books is The Prayer of Jabez by Bruce Wilkinson. It challenges us to pray mightily for God to do something great in and through us. There are many great books out there – read some biographies of great leaders – study how God sent great revivals through willing leaders like George Whitfield or Charles Spurgeon or Martin Luther.
What might be some practical steps we can take?
Blessings,
Pastor Scott
Paul addresses us in Romans 12:2: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – His good, pleasing, and perfect will.” Our future is dependent on us making the right decisions right now. There are two main sources of wisdom for us: 1) the Word of God; 2) great books. We have to start with the Bible, God’s Word to us. Are you taking an intentional look at what God says in the Bible? If you are looking for passion, read the New Testament. If you need wisdom and how to live, read Proverbs and the Pastoral Epistles. It all starts with God’s Word.
Next, we need to take time to read great books. To sharpen your mind, read books like Knowing God by J.I. Packer or Mere Christianity by C.S. Lewis. Maybe you need to inflame your heart – read books like The Pursuit of God by A.W. Tozer or Power Through Prayer by E.M. Bounds. One of my favorite books is The Prayer of Jabez by Bruce Wilkinson. It challenges us to pray mightily for God to do something great in and through us. There are many great books out there – read some biographies of great leaders – study how God sent great revivals through willing leaders like George Whitfield or Charles Spurgeon or Martin Luther.
What might be some practical steps we can take?
- Begin with a regular time in the Bible in a version you can understand.
- Use a resource that will provide some structure, understanding, and additional insight. ( Our Daily Bread, My Utmost for His Highest)
- Don’t be overwhelmed, but develop a plan to read one book every month or two.
- Enjoy the journey! It is not how many books you read, but it is how deeply the ones you read sink into your life.
Blessings,
Pastor Scott
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