Reading Challenges
Three Ways to Read
I’ve been thinking about challenging myself, and yesterday I wrote about how I’m challenging myself in this season by leading our youth in worship. Another area where I try to challenge myself is in what I read. Here are some reflections:
What I read. I challenge myself by reading books way above my pay grade. Even if I don’t understand everything, swimming in those waters is still invigorating and inspiring.
How I read. I challenge myself by reading books quickly. I’ve learned that processing what you read doesn’t necessarily have to happen in real time. In other words, you don’t have to fully digest a book as you’re reading it. I’ve grown to be comfortable taking in a book quickly and allowing myself to process and digest it over time.
What I do with it. I challenge myself by actually applying what I read. While we can read for knowledge, I want to read for application. Even if it’s only for a short period of time, attempting to apply what I read is part of the experience.
Challenging myself in reading Christian books has exponentially increased my spiritual growth. Books cause me to think broadly and deeply about different aspects of the Bible and my Christian faith.
Take Heart: Daily Devotions to Deepen Your Faith
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Learn to go to God for the help you need and hold fast to the daily mercy and grace he offers. And be reminded the promises of God are true and that the resurrection of Jesus guarantees that no matter what you may be facing, you can live in real hope.
More: Best Study Bibles
Not Many of You Should Become Teachers
Back in April, I wrote about how James saw Jesus as our standard:
3 Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. (James 3:1)
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Endnotes
Enter our giveaway! Thanks to Christian Focus Publications for providing in partnership with @diveindigdeep, SOLA Network, and FCBC Walnut.
The Pursuit of Holy Leisure by Cara Ray is one of the richest modern books on the Christian life I have ever read. It goes deep while casting a wide vision for how we encounter God in every area of life. This book will help you slow down, delight in his presence, and cultivate deeper fellowship with Christ. Read my full review.
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