Reasons to Read?

The Sisterhood Posse began simply: we wanted to study good Christian books. What has grown out of that is a deep commitment to each other in biblical accountability and fellowship. This has been needful and richly rewarding in my life. I am deeply grateful to these women. I have not always been a reader. I am a reader today because of Jennie. It is all her fault. Thanks, friend. (Jen sent along this virtual "tour" for those who love to visit bookstores. Enjoy.)

Over at Unashamed Workman, Colin Adams lists "20 Reasons to Read (Good Christian Books)". I list them here. I should mention that Colin is an associate pastor and writes his blog as a preaching pastor for preaching pastors. However, I believe there is much good we can learn here.

1. You will grow in your knowledge of God, yourself and the world around you.

2. You will gain a better understanding of the Bible, the book of books.

3. You will broaden your English vocabluary, helping you to express similar truths to your congregation in fresh ways.

4. You will have an improved imagination and actively engage your mind in a way that probably won’t occur when watching TV.

5. You will be able to sit at the feet of some of the great Christian teachers and minds over the centuries (even if you have few ‘living’ teachers to assist you).

6. You will be forced to cease from incessant activity and think.

7. You will receive a historical perspective on current problems and spot present day blindspots.

8. You will have some of your questions answered and confront other questions you hadn’t even thought of.

9. You will be able to practically apply Paul’s command to think upon “wholesome” things.

10. You will develop a sense of how arguments are constructed and be able to weigh both strong and weak arguments.

11. You will enjoy spiritual input during the week, not just on a Sunday (if not a pastor).

12. You will (if a pastor) be able to engage with other issues beyond this week’s text, thus broadening your perspective.

13. You will be able to mull over a subject. You will be able to put the book down to think, chew over a sentence or re-read a paragraph. You will be able to explore an issue at length, rather than brush over a topic too quickly.

14. You will be better prepared for the task of evangelism, after reading clear presentations of the gospel by great communicators.

15. You will be better prepared for the task of discipleship, having a good way to open up discussion about Christian life issues (what are you reading?).

16. You will be made aware of how Christians interpret and apply Scripture differently in various cultural contexts.

17. You will gain information for your ignorance, inspiration for your weariness, and insight for complex problems.

18. You will be better equipped to lead in your church, marriage and family.

19. You will be stimulated, as in a good conversation, to new lines of thinking.

20. You will be drawn to worship God, especially when the book centres on God not man.