One of the things that I miss so much when I'm working outstation is reading the Scripture together with my wife every night. It has become our habit, and I always feel something is missing or incomplete if we are not doing it. I'm very reluctant to give marriage advice to anyone (technically, not qualified in terms of experience), but let me give one here: aim to grow together in Christ one day at a time. One of the essential ways is to read (aloud), reflect, and pray the Scripture daily. First, it fosters emotional, intellectual, and spiritual intimacy, allowing both of us to connect on a deeper level as we explore the faith together. This shared practice strengthens our relationship, creating a sense of being one heart and mind in Christ and reminding one another to be under His lordship.
Next, it provides an opportunity for open communication, as we discuss passages and their meanings. Usually, we read 2 to 4 chapters a day and pause after every chapter to hear one another's thoughts and insights (sometimes I will provide the context and explanations of the text if it's difficult chapters, and she will make wise remarks because she's smart!). This leads us to greater understanding and teaches empathy for one another. Read and listen. The routine of reading together also establishes a consistent, calming end to each day (yes, we do have bad days), helping to reduce stress (yes, daily responsibilities, relationships, and work can be stressful) and promote a peaceful household environment (yes, we do have small arguments).
Moreover, the Scriptures offer valuable life lessons and true guidance, inspiring us to grow in the fruit of the Spirit such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. God often uses His Word to encourage us, correct us, and even rebuke us (I can't count how many times He confronts my pride and stubborn heart when we read the Scripture together! Here and there is a time for repentance, asking for forgiveness, and reconciliation). Finally, we end with prayer. This shared journey not only enriches our marriage but also lays a foundation for future challenges and adventures. But it must be done, if possible, daily or consistently - read, reflect, and pray the Scripture together - because the foundation cannot be less than solid Rock!
Thursday, August 15, 2024
Reading the Scripture Together with Your Spouse #LeadersAreReaders July 2024
Reading In The Digital Era Still Matters #LeadersAreReaders June 2024
In the digital era, it might seem like YouTube is the best place to get information (at least for me). However, as writer and illustrator Tomie dePaola said, "Reading is important because if you can read, you can learn anything about everything and everything about anything." While videos can help you grasp a topic quickly, they don't offer the deep understanding that reading does. One of the best examples I can think of is the wonderful overview videos of each book of the Bible by The Bible Project YouTube channel. These videos are great resources, but they can never replace the value of reading the Bible for ourselves.
Jim Kwik, a Brain Coach, said that multimedia's impact on learning is limited without reading as the foundation. Books, especially good ones that distill decades of experience, provide a depth that short videos can't match. Digital sources (with the exception of longer and in depth videos) are useful for starting your research and sparking your interest, but for true understanding, reading is essential. Maybe I'm in the minority... but I'm right, right?
To Love Is To Read #LeadersAreReaders May 2024
When asked what the greatest commandment was, Jesus said to love the LORD your God. He was quoting Deuteronomy 6:5. If you read the passage in Deuteronomy, you will notice a difference in how Jesus stated it. In Deuteronomy, it says: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." When Jesus says it in Matthew 22:37, instead of "might," He says "mind" or understanding. Jesus made it clear that we are to love the Lord with all of our mind as well.
What you believe determines how you live. Your thoughts dictate everything you pursue. It is imperative, then, that we train our minds. This means we are to think deeply and venture out of the shallows. We are to discuss theology (or the things of God and His Word) and its practical implications. At the very minimum, it means we must read. You must read. Have you resolved to love God with all your mind by reading?
THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP
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