Reading

Apart from a deep, abiding faith in Jesus Christ and Jehovah God there are few things more fundamental to our success than reading.  Reading opens doors of thought that cannot be opened in any other way making for a most constructive way of passing our time.  There is a saying that says,

Leaders are Readers

and despite your field of endeavor this rings true.  Those who read fuel their minds and are more able to make the connections that may otherwise be missed between seemingly random events of everyday life.  Readers make the best teachers, preachers, and trainers.  Readers seem to adapt better to change, which may be a reflection of the amount of information they have stored in their minds.  In our ever-changing society this can be a great advantage.

On the softer side readers of poetry and fiction may be carried away to places far away, or just enough away from their current reality to provide a safe escape which can lower their stress from day to day difficulties.  A far safer alternative of escape than drugs, alcohol, porn, and the like.  Those of faith can also be reassured by their readings from scripture.  Every word of scripture is inspired by God and as is stated in 2 Timothy 3:16-17

"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, 

and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof,

for correction, for instruction in righteousness,

that the man of God may be complete, 

thoroughly equipped for every good work."

From a practical standpoint one can gain insights on many useful subjects such as nutrition, health, and finances from a variety of readings.  Each of these subject areas and several other popular ones fill many shelves of libraries and bookstores as well as containing many e-titles to choose from.  With the right mindset there is something for anyone to read that can educate, inspire and enlighten.  My challenge to you is to build your personal library, take advantage of your local public library and connect with other ideas via on line sources such as websites, blogs, and the like that allow you to expand your knowledge in an area that interests you.  If you will choose to take a path to growing your reading list you will Do Well!

Next Week: Writing