To Be a Christian Mystic or a Man of God? #LeadersAreReaders March 2026

I remember reading Richard Foster’s Sanctuary of the Soul (2011) on a flight from KLIA2 to KIA. At first, I was drawn to the subject of meditative prayer, partly because of the positive influence of Foster’s Celebration of Discipline. However, halfway through the book, I began to feel that most of the Bible verses were explained in a rather mystical way (I should've known... also, I'm not a fan of 'Desert Fathers,' too much quotes). Although I finished the book before landing and gained some helpful insights on prayer in general, I realized that the author’s approach to spirituality does not quite suit my temperament and personality.

Perhaps this is also because I have come to understand Scripture more deeply and have become more discerning about certain aspects of meditative prayer. Still, I find some of the ideas intriguing, such as meditation and prayer, the concept of descending with the mind into the heart to behold the divine, the idea of a “safe space” where the spirit is free to breathe and the heart is secure, the notion of self-love as turning inward for healing and protection, and the emphasis on stillness as a way of reconnecting with the soul. To be honest, I am not entirely sure how to practice most of these.

On the other hand, David Pawson’s Men of God (2020) is very compelling. In fact, I find all of Dr. Pawson’s books helpful. In this work, he addresses the crisis of masculinity in both the church and society. He argues that many churches function like lifeboats, prioritizing women and children, while men are often disengaged, creating a gap in spiritual leadership. His contrast between modern perspectives and biblical principles is striking, especially his emphasis that God calls men to be active as warriors, leaders, and followers of Christ. This message is deeply needed today. The way Pawson presents his arguments is both persuasive and heartfelt, reflecting a genuine concern for men to become men of God. This is a subject I care deeply about as well, namely biblical manhood. As he writes, “I make no apology for saying that I believe the strength of any church is in its men.” I wholeheartedly agree 💯#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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No Article.... #LeadersAreReaders February 2026

I forgot to share… I only managed to finish one book 😅 In February, I was busy reading lots of reference books for preaching, teaching, and Bible studies 📖 #ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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The Joy of Not Finishing Books #LeadersAreReaders January 2026

I used to push myself to finish every book I started because I felt guilty stopping halfway. I tried to finish Yuval Noah Harari’s Nexus, James Patterson’s Private Games, and Martin Lings’ biography of Muhammad (BM), among others, but I eventually lost the drive to continue. Instead of enjoying the process, reading became a burden. But reading James Colley’s article in The Guardian (30 Nov 2018) a few years ago helped me rethink that pressure.

He points out that there simply isn’t enough time in a lifetime to read every book. That means each moment I spend forcing myself through a book I’m not connecting with is a moment lost from reading something that might truly move me. Most of us know that feeling. You are hundreds of pages in, you do not care about the characters, and you keep flipping to the back just to see how many pages are left. Colley argues that this reflects sunk cost thinking. Because we have already invested time, we do not want to “waste” it, even if the book is no longer rewarding.

What struck me most was how freeing it felt to see putting down a book not as defeat, but as a choice. Letting go of a book I do not enjoy means clearing space for one that brings joy, insight, or connection. It is a small act of self-honesty and that is valuable not only in reading, but in life ❤️#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Mentored by the Books I Read, by the Authors I Never Met #LeadersAreReaders December 2025

J. Oswald Sanders, in his book Spiritual Leadership (revised, 2017), writes: “If people are known by the company they keep, so also their character is reflected in the books they read. A leader’s reading is the outward expression of their inner hunger and aspirations. The vast number of titles pouring from the presses today makes discriminating choice essential. We can afford to read only the best, only that which invigorates our mission. Our reading should be regulated by who we are and what we intend to accomplish.” Sanders reminds us that what we choose to read both reveals and shapes who we are, especially for those called to lead. In a world flooded with information, intentional and discerning reading is not a luxury but a responsibility, as it profoundly influences our convictions, clarity, and calling.

Since mentoring can be understood as one life empowering another, I have always regarded certain authors as some of my most influential mentors. Though I never met them personally, their lives and insights came alive in my study as I spent countless hours reading their works, eager to learn and grow. Authors who have deeply shaped me include J. I. Packer (Knowing God), John Piper (Don’t Waste Your Life), John MacArthur (Ashamed of the Gospel), Adrian Rogers (Unveiling the End Times in Our Time), Oswald Smith (The Challenge of Missions), John Stott (The Message of 2 Timothy), Michael Heiser (The Unseen Realm), Anthony Robbins (Awaken the Giant Within), Jim Rohn (The Art of Exceptional Living), John Maxwell (The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership), and C. S. Lewis (The Chronicles of Narnia), among others.

In addition, biographies of heroes of the faith such as Charles Spurgeon, John Sung, and William Tyndale have also been a great help to me, as their lives and testimonies continue to instruct, inspire, and strengthen my walk with the LORD. As Sanders so aptly puts it, “The leader should read to have fellowship with great minds. Through books, we hold communion with the greatest spiritual leaders of the ages" 💯#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

Read my monthly articles on reading HERE 🔗 https://legasitv.blogspot.com/search/label/Book%20Review?m=1

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Reading, Fast and Slow #LeadersAreReaders November 2025

I often read comments from people who say they love to read Scripture slowly and without rushing. I wholeheartedly agree. However, reading only this way means many never finish the whole Bible in their lifetime, or it takes 10+ years to do so. Too long. As a result, some Christians, even faithful ones, may pass on without knowing the whole counsel of God. My personal suggestion is to read the Bible both fast and slow, a phrase I borrowed from Daniel Kahneman’s Thinking, Fast and Slow (2011), though I use it differently.

Reading fast means reading for the big picture of Scripture. This helps us understand how each book fits together, showing the logic, connections, and flow of God’s redemption story. I imagine there are no chapter or verse numbers and read each book as a complete work. I read narratives and prophecies like a novel, and poetry and letters like scrolls, often finishing shorter books in one sitting or one day (when I'm busy). For historical books, I use audiobooks and Bible overviews to help me move quickly and remember the stories. With this approach, I can read through the Bible once or twice each year and still have time to read other helpful books.

At the same time, I read slowly for deep study and reflection. Currently, I study Psalms weekly with friends, reading and praying through each psalm carefully and thoughtfully, a journey that will likely take about three years. I strengthen my learning by recording podcast lessons and reading Bible commentaries alongside Scripture. I also create short video teachings on the Gospel of Luke, focusing on small passages and explaining them in simple but meaningful ways, a project lasting about one and a half to two years. Reading slowly allows me to notice the details and beauty of God’s living Word that faster reading might miss.

Try, reading, fast and slow 😉 #ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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The Quiet Return to Reading #LeadersAreReaders October 2025

Imagine this: you sit down after a long day, pick up a book you’ve been meaning to read, and before you know it, ten peaceful minutes have passed. No pressure, no goals… just a quiet moment for yourself. I experienced this last week, and it felt good! Many of us miss that feeling. Life gets busy, our phones pull our attention, and reading slowly slips out of our routine without us noticing.

But getting back into reading doesn’t need to be dramatic. You don’t need a best-selling title or a detailed reading plan. The most important step is simply opening a book again. Start with something light, short, or familiar. Reread an old favourite if that helps you begin. Even a few pages count. Make reading easy for yourself. Keep a book where you usually reach for your phone or always have one in your bag. Listen to audiobooks while cooking, cleaning, or driving (those count too!). Create a small reading moment in your day, maybe in the morning with a drink or at night before bed. Choose a comfortable place that feels relaxing.

If it’s been a while since you last read, remember that reading is like warming up muscles you haven’t used in a long time. Like muscles, you either use it or lose it. Start small, enjoy the process, and let the habit grow naturally. Want me to suggest a book for you? Just let me know! 😉

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Why Actual Books Are Better Than eBooks (For Me) #LeadersAreReaders September 2025

Many people today prefer reading on screens. eBooks are easy to carry, and you can store hundreds of titles on one device. But no matter how advanced technology becomes, there’s still something special about holding a real book in your hands. Here’s why actual books are still better than eBooks. First, YOU CAN FEEL AND TOUCH. Reading a physical book gives you a real experience. You can feel the pages, smell the paper, and see how far you’ve read. Turning pages helps you remember where things are in the book. Many people also understand and remember better when reading from paper than from a screen.

Secondly, I love this — FEWER DISTRACTIONS. When you read an eBook, there are often notifications, messages, or other apps that can disturb your focus (of course, you can turn them off, duh). But with a real book, there are no pop-ups or sounds. You can simply sit, read, and think quietly. Especially when reading the Bible, a printed one helps you reflect and focus on God’s Word. Thirdly, BETTER FOR LEARNING. Studies show that reading from paper helps your brain process information more deeply. When you read on screens, it’s easier to skim or read quickly without really thinking. Physical books encourage slow reading — and slow reading helps us understand more. Fourthly, NO BATTERY, NO PROBLEM. Books don’t need to be charged, updated, or connected to Wi-Fi. You can bring them anywhere — even to a quiet retreat or a place without electricity. They’re always ready to use.

Fifthly, YOU TRULY OWN IT. When you buy a real book, it’s yours. You can underline, write notes, or pass it to someone else. It can last long and can even be passed down to the next generation. Sixthly, DEEP READING, LEARNING, AND REFLECTION. When you hold a Bible or any book in your hands, it invites you to slow down. Turning the pages gives time to think and pray. Many Christians say that reading a printed Bible helps them feel closer to God’s Word — not just reading it but living it. ANYWAY, eBooks have their advantages — they’re convenient and portable. But real books touch our senses, mind, and heart in ways a screen never can. In a world full of noise and distraction, opening a real book might be one of the simplest ways to slow down and grow deeper in truth 🙏

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Don't Start Your Day with Social Media First, But... #LeadersAreReaders August 2025

Don’t start your day or your optimum time of focus by scrolling through social media before turning to the Word of God. Many people “program” themselves every morning (or every evening) on bed while endlessly scrolling social feeds. These are often filled with both positive and negative content. In my opinion, social media leans more heavily toward the negative. No offense. Dangerous, but sometimes useful. Scary, but attention-grabbing. Undesirable, but hard to ignore.

That is why an old advice is still very true: “Read with the Bible in one hand and the news in the other.” But the order matters: God’s Word first. I suggest you don’t dive into social media first thing in the morning or at your peak focus time. Save that for later. Instead, feed your mind and soul with something mor
e inspiring, uplifting, and meaningful at that hour. Begin with God’s Word. It strengthens your soul for the rest of the day. Take a moment to be thankful for another day, blessed by God, and use that time to listen (through His Word) and to speak (through prayer).

Let that be your first offering of the day or the best offering of your optimum time. As Jesus said, “Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (Matthew 6:33). Socials later; first, the Word of God 📖

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Learning Beyond School: Why It Still Matters #LeadersAreReaders July 2025

 
I’ve learned that you don’t need a classroom to grow your mind. Today, books, websites, podcasts, and videos can teach you what schools once could only offer. With just my phone or a trip to the library, I can keep learning anytime, anywhere. Research shows that people who keep learning - no matter the method - are more confident, adaptable, and successful in life. A study found that lifelong learners handle change better and feel less stuck. They think deeper, lead better, and stay curious.

I'm hunger to learn. For me, learning beyond school helps in every area of life. It grows my faith, improves my thinking, and teaches me how to manage my time and leadership. The more I learn, the more I grow, not just in knowledge, but in wisdom. I’ve come to see that I don’t need to go back to school to move forward. Learning isn’t just about getting a degree, it’s about self-development. So, I keep reading, listening, and watching. And every small step matters. I believe this kind of learning can change lives... starting with mine. And the best part? I can start (or restart) today. So can you 🫵

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain #LearningBeyondSchool

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When Was the Last Time You Picked Up a Book for YOU? #LeadersAreReaders June 2025

When was the last time you picked up a book NOT for school or an assignment, but for YOU? These days, many of us spend hours scrolling TikTok, watching YouTube videos (I’m guilty!) or gaming (thank God, I’m not). But let’s be real, with the exception of good YouTube videos, how often do those things help us think better or grow wiser?

Reading books might sound “nerdy” or “old-school,” but it’s actually one of the best things you can do for your mind and your heart. A good book can help you understand life, people, and — in the case of The Book a.k.a. The Bible — the mind and heart of the LORD God. It teaches you to think clearly, make better decisions, and gain practical wisdom.

So… how can YOU start reading more?

1. Start small — aim to read at least 10 minutes a day (and increase over time);
   
   
2. Read what you like or interested — the Bible, biographies, magazines, comics, real stories… anything! (in the month of June, I'm soo interested in The Toral and Messianic Jews);
   
   
3. Swap some screen time for book time - don't try to eliminate screen time completely at once. Instead, focus on replacing some of your regular screen time with reading;
   
   
4. Find a reading buddy or join a group (I have one — let me know if you're interested!);
   
   
5. Visit your state or local library, or a book fair — you might find a gem!

 Reading isn’t just for “bookworms.” It’s for anyone who wants to grow. So if you want to think better, live wiser, and have an informed heart — open a book. One page at a time. Let's start reading and let’s read more. Let’s make reading cool again. You’ve got this! 💪📖 #ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Hearing God in the Age of A.I. #LeadersAreReaders May 2025

Justin Peters once said, “Want to hear God speak? Read your Bible. Want to hear God speak audibly? Read your Bible out loud.” In today’s digital age, where AI offers answers instantly and voices speak from devices, it’s easy to forget where true wisdom comes from. While technology is helpful, it cannot replace the voice of God. AI can provide information, but only Scripture offers divine truth and wisdom. The Bible is God’s Word—unchanging, eternal, and alive (Hebrews 4:12). In a world flooded with content, reading the Bible helps us discern what is real, right, and true.

Reading God’s Word regularly keeps us rooted. It reminds us of who YHWH (LORD God) is and who we are in Him. In contrast to AI, which learns from human data, the Bible reveals truth straight from the mind and heart of God. In a noisy world of digital voices, let us listen to the one Voice that truly matters. Open your Bible. Read it often. That’s where you’ll hear God speak 😉 #ServeToLead #PreachTheWord #LeadersAreReaders

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If You Will Actual Read It, Then Buy It! #LeadersAreReaders April 2025

 

If I had to steal books just to keep reading, I might! Luckily, I can buy some of the best books ever written for just a few ringgit on places like Shopee or secondhand bookshops. But let’s forget about money for a second. Reading isn’t a luxury. It’s not something extra or fancy. It’s a necessity. Erasmus once said, “When I get a little money, I buy books. If there’s anything left, I buy food and clothes.” That’s how important books are.

Books are also an investment. Some people say, “I’m planning to buy this book,” but why wait? If a book grabs your interest, get it. Don’t let money, time, or laziness stop you. Don’t wait for the cheaper version or thinking you can find it elsewhere. If it’s a book you’ll ACTUALLY READ, it’s worth it now—not a year from now. Read now. Learn now. Grow now 💪

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Explore Other Topics through Different Formats, Not Just Books #LeadersAreReaders March 2025

 

Reading books is a great habit, but focusing on only one type of book can limit our perspective. Over the past few years, I’ve noticed that most of the books I read are Christian books. While they are meaningful and help me grow spiritually, I realize I might be missing out on learning from other areas of life. It's like eating only one type of food every day—it may be good, but it’s not enough for a balanced diet.

To balance this, I try to explore other topics through different formats. I don’t read many books on science, psychology, or history, but I enjoy listening to podcasts and watching YouTube videos on these subjects. Occasionally, I watch documentaries as well. These platforms help me learn new things and gain broader perspectives, even if I’m not reading them in book form. Listening to experts explain how the brain works or learning about world history gives me a deeper understanding of life. It also helps me relate better to people who think differently. As Christ followers, I believe it's important to understand the world around us. It helps us become wiser, more thoughtful, and well-informed.

While Christian books will always be my main source of reading due to my vocation, I try to be intentional about learning from other genres too. Whether it’s a podcast on mental health, a video about space, or a documentary on ancient civilizations, these small efforts help fill in the gaps and support my growth as a well-rounded person 💯

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Why Reading Books Makes You a Better Thinker #LeadersAreReaders February 2025

Imagine two people: Bunyau, who reads books regularly, and Bugau, who spends hours scrolling through social media. One day, they see a viral post claiming, “Drinking tuak (rice wine) makes you live 10 years longer!” Bugau instantly shares it with all his friends. Bunyau, on the other hand, remembers reading a book on food and beverage, so he double-checks the claim. Turns out, the post twisted the facts - 'tuak' has health benefits in smaller portion, but it’s definitely not going to make you live longer!

Books sharpen critical thinking. Studies show reading boosts comprehension, problem-solving, and decision-making, while social media encourages quick reactions. A Stanford study found frequent users struggle to separate facts from opinions. Fiction broadens perspectives, and nonfiction builds knowledge—like a workout for your brain! ...Meanwhile, Bugau keeps believing every clickbait headline he sees. Bunyau? He knows better. So if you want to be a sharper thinker and avoid getting tricked by bad information, put down your phone for a bit and pick up a book and READ 📖

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If We Don't Keep Learning, We Risk Becoming Stuck #LeadersAreReaders January 2025

Do you want to grow or stay the same? I was sitting at Starbucks after a long day of ministry, sipping my Americano (cheapest) coffee and flipping through a Bible commentary. Across from me, my friend James*, also a full-time worker (but of different organization), scrolled through his phone. "Why do you always read so much?" he asked, looking up. I smiled. "Because I want to keep growing." James sighed. "I don’t really have time for books. Ministry is already busy enough."

I glanced at an open-air chicken rice shop nearby and asked, "If a chef never sharpens his tools, what happens?" "His tools get dull," James replied. "Exactly," I said. "And if we, as full-time workers, never sharpen our minds and hearts, our ministry becomes dull too. Reading exposes us to wisdom from others. It helps us understand people better, communicate the Gospel effectively, and refresh our passion when we feel tired." "But doesn’t the Bible have everything we need?" James asked. "Of course!" I nodded. "The Bible is our foundation. But God also gives people wisdom to write books that help us apply His Word in different situations. Even Paul asked for books and parchments (open my pocket Bible to 2 Timothy 4:13). If Paul valued reading, shouldn’t we?"

James was silent for a moment, then nodded. Ministry is a journey. If we don’t keep learning, we risk becoming stuck. But when we invest in reading, we grow, and our ministry becomes more effective—even creative! So, which kind of worker do you want to be—the one who stays the same or the one who keeps growing? 🤔

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Reading the Scripture Together with Your Spouse #LeadersAreReaders July 2024

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!

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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? 

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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?

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Read and Found the Joy of Knowing Christ #LeadersAreReaders April 2024

I was reading one of powerful stories from Richard Wurmbrand's Tortured for Christ (1969) about how he witnessed to a Russian lady officer on the street during the communist period in Romania. "I know that it is impolite to accost an unknown lady on the street, but I am a pastor and my intentions are earnest. I wish to speak to you about Christ," Wurmbrand said as he approached her. She asked, "Do you love Christ?" "Yes!" he replied passionately, "From all my heart." She fell into his arms and kissed him again and again. It was an embarrassing situation to do this in public, so he kissed her back, hoping people would think they were relatives. She exclaimed joyfully, "I love Christ too!"

He then took her home to meet his wife and talked to her where it was safer. He read to her selected Scripture passages. Along the way, he discovered that she knew nothing (Biblical facts, Gospel stories, what the Saviour and salvation mean) about Christ - absolutely nothing - except the Name. And yet she loved Him. He wondered, "How can you love somebody if you know only his name?" When he inquired, she explained, "As a child, I was taught to read by pictures. For an 'a' there was an apple, for a 'b' there was a bell, for a 'c' a cat, and so on. When I went to high school, I was taught my holy duty to defend the communist fatherland. I was taught about communist morals. But I did not know what a 'holy duty' or 'moral' looked like. I needed a picture for these."

"Now I knew that our forefathers had a picture for everything beautiful, praiseworthy, and truthful in life," she continued. "My grandmother always bowed down before this picture, saying it was the picture of one called 'Cristos' (Christ). And I loved this name by itself. This name became so real to me! Just to say this name gave one such joy!" Wurmbrand commented in the book: "Listening to her, I remembered what is written in Philippians that at His Name every knee should bow. Perhaps, the anti-Christ will be able for a time to erase from the world the knowledge of God. But there is power in the simple Name of Christ (Jesus) and this will lead to the light."

That day, the lady officer found (and was found by) Christ in the pastor's home and since then, the One whose name she loved lived in her heart in person. So, what does this story have to do with reading books, especially the Scripture? The goal is to know the personhood of God, and the primary means, special revelation, is through the Book. Secondly, through books about the God of the Book. Read and be led to the light! May you find the joy of knowing Christ. From pictures to words to Person.

 #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain #LeadersAreReaders #1Book1Week

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Cultivate the Habits of Reading and Writing #LeadersAreReaders January 2024

If you followed the Chronological Bible Reading Plan, you would've read the Book of Genesis and Job. Well done! Every year I try to read through the Bible, but last year I didn't manage to finish on time because I read other books too. Well, this year I want to focus more on the Bible than other books (perhaps limited to one or two or, at the most, three per month). I've come to believe that if you want to grow as a Christian, especially in full-time ministry, cultivating the habits of reading and writing are indispensable.

Reading Christians, especially those who read and meditate on the Word of God, are God-loving Christians. We are called to "love the Lord [our] God with all [our] heart, [our] soul," and "[our] mind." Reading helps us to grow in knowledge and equips us to contend for the faith, to gain wisdom and understanding, to have the mind of Christ and to know God's will and the Spirit leading, and in my case, to teach, preach and give answers with conviction, confidence, and compassion. Besides, reading helps our minds to think, connect, and reflect.

Next, after reading, writing is important. Initially, I didn't like to write because it consumed a lot of time, and I always failed my grammar. But once I 'force' myself to write, the outcomes are clarity of thought, exponential learning and retention, and mental satisfaction. And if you see writing as one of the ways to bring the Word of God to readers, then you're also benefiting others other than yourself. It is said that "clear writing is a sign of clear thinking" and "clear thinking is a sign of a well-organized mind." I agree. As full-time ministers, we must nurture our minds too, not just our hearts and souls.

So, friends, read and write!

#ServeToLead #ReadersAreLeaders #TheBible #ReadingAndWriting #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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