Chetan Bhagat one popular Indian author writes to youngsters: “Have you ever heard people describe someone as a well-TV-watched person or a well-Instagram reels -watched person? No. They always say ‘a-well-read person’.” (11 rules of life) He states that if anyone says: Oh, I am not a reading person, he is basically lazy. Great Leaders are Great Readers.
Scripture: The Bible is the Word of God. It testifies about the Saviour, Son of God the Lord Jesus Christ. (John 5:39-46)
Delightful reading: It is always delightful to read the Scripture, and then meditate. (Psalms 1:2) Jews of Berea city were eagerly, enthusiastically, and joyfully reading the Scripture daily. (Acts 17:11) Indeed, it is a blessing to read the Scripture and also to listen. (Revelation 1:3)
Devotional writings: It is also good to read the writings of saints of God in history. They meditated, got insights, applied them in their life, and distilled their wisdom in those writings. Such writings inspire and guide believers to walk in faith now.
Journals, sermon notes: It is also a good discipline to take notes when reading the Bible and listening to bible teaching. Paul asked Timothy to bring his parchments, probably his study notes, sermon notes, and what he learned from other Apostles. (II Timothy 4:13)
History and culture: Reading the history and culture of the people among whom we live and serve or intend to reach out is important. Paul quoted the non-biblical writers when he wrote to Titus about the people living in Crete. (Acts 17:28; Titus 1:12)
Contemporary literature: Reading contemporary literature includes newspapers, magazines, journals, and books. The bestseller books give an idea, of what people read, and are inclined to think and believe. The trends, fashions, and intellectual environment of the present generation would be known. Reading book reviews helps us to choose what books to read.
Renewed mind: With a strong Scriptural foundation, and the help of the Holy Spirit, believers have a renewed mind to understand, interpret, and communicate with the people of the world. (Romans 12:2)
Do I have a renewed mind?