I get a lot out of reading the latest Christian books. In evangelical Christianity, we tend to quote a lot from the “inspired” works of Sts. Max Lucado, John Eldredge, C.S. Lewis, John Piper…etc (no offense to those I’ve missed). I’m really loving the works of the Reformed Church of Relevant, with works by Mark Driscoll and some other folks that are working hard at revamping the church by NOT watering down the power and might of the Gospel and prostituting it into the “NAME IT & CLAIM IT” and “MY WILL BE DONE!” gospels preached by many televangelists…
Sorry….sorry about the rant. What was I saying?
Oh yeah, I love reading these books. Liz and I don’t have enough bookshelves to house our books. But sometimes, I’m so caught up reading the latest publication from Relevant Books or Discerning Reader, that I forget the Word of God Himself.
I’ve been inspired by other books, but the Word of God is the only one that truly ignites me. I must give all credit and glory to the Holy Spirit for causing any ignition or regeneration in my heart, since I can no more change my own heart than a car can change it’s own engine.
When I open up the Bible, I don’t find tasty morsels of food. I find a never-ending banquet. And this is the good, expensive stuff, not the stuffing and macaroni at Hometown Buffet. It’s like entering a cave while looking for a gem, and instead, you find a horde of treasure. Make that hordes of treasure, so much that you’re shocked that there’s enough gold, silver and diamonds on the planet to make such an abundance. You try taking out a bag of gems, but your mind goes bananas because you can’t decide which one’s you have and your bag is so small. Forget bringing in the trucks to haul the treasure off, because a 10 ton truck wouldn’t make a dent.
The law of the LORD is perfect,
reviving the soul.
The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy,
making wise the simple.
The precepts of the LORD are right,
giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the LORD are radiant,
giving light to the eyes.
The fear of the LORD is pure,
enduring forever.
The ordinances of the LORD are sure
and altogether righteous.
They are more precious than gold,
than much pure gold;
they are sweeter than honey,
than honey from the comb.
By them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward. – Psalm 19:7-11
For the word of God is living and active.
Sharper than any double-edged sword,
it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit,
joints and marrow;
it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. – Hebrews 4:12 (NIV)
Granted, Christian books are worth their face value. God’s authored Word is priceless. Feast on the Word of God. Read it in a worthy manner, not as a bedrudging task, but as a delight. Delight in God’s Word.