A Christian Book Per Month

            I have often wondered why so many great Christian writers struggle to get their work noticed. A few Christian authors sell well, but go to the used bookstores, thrift shops, and garage sales and invariably there will be several of their books with bindings unbroken.  Yet, in those same locations are hundreds of worn out novels with tattered pages. While reading the book John MacArthur, given to me by a friend, an answer came forward.

            "The role high-quality books play in our lives is absolutely critical. So why do so many Christians find it difficult to apply themselves to books? A.W. Tozer said that 'To enjoy a great religious book requires a degree of consecration to God and detachment from the world that few modern Christians have.' While it takes great determination to form new habits and cultivate our minds through books, even greater are the rewards you'll see in your thought and patterns and your spiritual growth." (John MacArthur)

            It seems that people use books as an escape, not as a tool for learning. But as Tozer reported, and MacArthur restated, believers need to make the decision that they want to cultivate their minds toward spiritual growth. The words that God has placed on the minds of so many writers were given to them for you. Those words explain the scripture, inform believers about discipleship and spiritual growth, give example about how others faced trials, and help believers to understand that we are in this journey together. Yet, if we are not reading, and growing, then all of great the words written are missing their intended mark. 

            There is nothing wrong with escaping from the harsh realities of this world. It can do our minds some good to withdraw and recharge. However, the enjoyment of one does not cancel out the need for the other. Grab a good book about serving the Lord.  I could recommend a few, in fact I have written a few myself. But this is not about me. It is about you, and the God who is calling you to gain a new perspective on his love, and a new desire to seek his face. Christian books are not a substitute for reading the Bible, but they are a great way to begin the process of seeking God.

            Here is a plan that every member of the body of Christ should embrace. Read all you want, but include one Christian book every month. Buy a book a month and suppprt Christian writers. Check out an author you have not read yet. Read a devotional, an inspirational book, or a teaching book.  There are Christian novels, Christ centered poetry books, and books that follow themes you will enjoy. The Christian book market is amazingly wide open. Every believer can find a book that will build him or her up in Christ. Grab a Christian book and get to know the God who has been seeking you all of your life.