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

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

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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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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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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Five (5) Tips For Reading a Book Thoughtfully (such as 'Becoming Hannah') #LeadersAreReaders December 2024

Many people misunderstand Hannah Yeoh’s book, Becoming Hannah (Sarcastically speaking, some people took 10 years to read it and suddenly decided something was ‘wrong’ with the book!). Some assume it reveals a hidden agenda to make Malaysia a Christian country. This is far from the truth. The book focuses on her personal journey, faith, and challenges in serving as a politician. Unfortunately, many critics haven’t read the book or fully understood its content, relying instead on hearsay.

To avoid misunderstandings like this, here are five tips for reading a book thoughtfully. These can be applied to any book you read:

1) Read the Entire Book - Don’t judge a book based on a few pages or isolated quotes taken out of context. Take time to read the whole book before forming an opinion. This ensures you understand the author's full message. If you haven’t read it, don’t criticize it. Simple.

2) Check the Author’s Purpose - Ask yourself: Why did the author write this book? Look for clues in the introduction or foreword. For example, Becoming Hannah was written to share Hannah Yeoh’s journey and inspire readers, not to push any agenda.

3) Avoid Prejudgments - Approach the book with an open mind. Avoid making assumptions based on the author’s religion, background, or what others say about the book. Prejudgments can distort your understanding.

4) Pay Attention to Context - Take note of the context of any statement or story. A single sentence can be misinterpreted if you ignore the surrounding paragraphs or chapters. Always ask, “What is the bigger picture here?”

5) Discuss with Others Who Have Read It - Engage with people who have also read the book. Sharing thoughts can help clarify your understanding and correct any misinterpretations.

Books like Becoming Hannah deserve to be read carefully and fairly. Avoiding misunderstandings not only helps you gain true insights but also prevents the spread of false assumptions. So, take time to read responsibly! Read widely and with an open mind. Don’t fear strange ideas or foreign beliefs. If your faith is strong and true, and you stay critical and thoughtful while reading books outside your comfort zone, you won’t be easily influenced (Although, I fully recommend you read the Bible or the New Testament too, because “the truth will set you free” 😉)

To read my monthly reading articles, CLICK HERE

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Dear Full-Time Workers, Read Books! #LeadersAreReaders October 2024

 

Have you ever experienced writer’s block? You sit down to write, and there’s nothing. You stare at the laptop (or paper) for what feels like hours, and you’re not sure what to say. It happens to everyone, but it’s often because you’re running on empty.

Now, imagine this as a full-time worker in ministry. As a minister, you’re constantly creating. Week after week, you’re pouring everything you have into your messages—sermons, Bible studies, or short sharings. The challenge is that you can only pour out what you’ve put in. If your bucket, so to speak, is running dry, you’ll struggle to pour anything more out. A reading habit helps keep your bucket full all year long. It’s essential to be reading your Bible (first and foremost, above all else) and, in your spare time, other books.

The key is CONSISTENCY. When you make a habit of reading every day, you’re constantly finding ideas. Storing these insights in a notes database, or simply in your mind, means you’ll have a wealth of fresh thoughts and ideas ready to deliver. You’ll always have something meaningful and helpful to share. And when you sit down to write your messages (or in my case, outline ideas)—whether you’re working weeks in advance or, as I often do, a night or even just hours before (a risky move!)—you’ll be able to produce good messages faster. But you have to put in the work—read books! 😊

To read my monthly reading articles, CLICK HERE

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(A Tale of) Libau Discovers the Bible - and Reads It! #LeadersAreReaders September 2024

In a longhouse where everyone lived simple, predictable lives, there was a boy named Libau who was different. One day, while wandering around, he found an old, forgotten missionary house. Curious, he picked up a book (unknowingly, a Bible) and started reading. It was as if a whole new world opened up to him—he learned about the Creator, Jesus, the Son of God, the Holy Spirit, and truths that stretched beyond anything he had ever known.

As Libau kept reading, he began to think differently. He used the knowledge and truth he gained to teach other young men and women in his longhouse, helping them better understand the world and the reality of God around them. At first, the people were suspicious and even opposed him. But as time went on, they began to notice that Libau lived differently and saw things in a way they didn’t. Some of them started turning to him for advice and prayers, though, overall, he was still rejected by many.

One day, missionaries came through the longhouses, speaking about the Kingdom of God and the call to preach the Gospel beyond the horizon. Libau, filled with curiosity and a sense of God's calling, decided to join them and go into all the world. The people of the longhouse saw Libau leave, knowing he had risen above the ordinary, not because he was stronger or richer, but because he had the power of the knowledge of God through reading, meditating, and living the Bible.

The missionary house, with all its hidden wisdom, remained—waiting for the next curious and seeking mind to discover its truths. Will you pick up the Bible and read it too? 🙏

To read my monthly reading articles, CLICK HERE

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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!

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

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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Keep On Reading! #LeadersAreReaders March 2024

I will never know which authors and/or books God will use to make a difference in my life, so I just keep reading with expectation and prayer, knowing that if I do, the possibility is high, and if I don't, it's next to zero. This reminds me of the Ethiopian eunuch who read the Book of Isaiah but didn't understand it until the Holy Spirit, through Philip the Evangelist, explained the Scripture to him. The story is in Acts 8:26-35,

"God’s angel spoke to Philip: 'At noon today, I want you to walk over to that desolate road that goes from Jerusalem down to Gaza.' He got up and went. He met an Ethiopian eunuch coming down the road. The eunuch had been on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and was returning to Ethiopia, where he was a minister in charge of Candace's finances, queen of the Ethiopians. He was riding in a chariot and reading the prophet Isaiah. The Spirit told Philip, 'Climb into the chariot.'

Running up alongside, Philip heard the eunuch reading Isaiah and asked, 'Do you understand what you’re reading?' He answered, 'How can I without some help?' and invited Philip into the chariot with him. The passage he was reading was Isaiah 53:7-8. The eunuch said, 'Tell me, who is the prophet talking about himself or someone else?' Philip seized the opportunity. Using this passage as his text, he preached JESUS to him" - and the eunuch got baptized, and Philip went on his way.

So, you will never know which authors and/or books God will use to make a difference in your life, just keep reading with expectation and prayer and the Holy Spirit will give you understanding. Amen.

 #ServeToLead #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain #1Book1Week #KeepOnReading #HabitOfReading #TheBook

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The 10-Minute Rule #LeadersAreReaders February 2024

The months of February and March are quite packed for me but I still managed to find time to read. First, it's due to necessity. If I don't read, I can't do my work and ministry efficiently. Secondly, it's due to habit. Since reading books is a part of my life, I can't imagine a day without reading, especially the Scriptures, even if only for a few sentences. Thirdly, it's due to a principle that I've practiced since last year: the 10-Minute Rule. Namely, starting to read from a book for at least 10 minutes every day. My aim is at least 10 minutes, but usually, I end up reading longer than that.

I find that this rule is helpful because it is achievable and a good way for me to jump-start my mind's engine! Plus, if I don't feel like I want to read (which is rare), I can just endure the 10 minutes and close the book! So, would you like to try a 10-Minute Rule? If it's too hard, try 5 minutes; you have to at least try. Reading books 1) keeps me inspired by other people’s thoughts and if I read the Scriptures, by God's thoughts, wow!; 2) gives me a different perspective; 3) restores my ability to be more discerning with my time; 4) encourages me to spend time with lasting benefits; 5) opens the creative flow as concepts and ideas appear in my mind; and many more. Pick a book, set the timing to 10 minutes, and read!

NOTE: Currently, I'm exploring Roman Catholicism. The book on the Eucharist by Bishop Robert Barron is inspiring, and as I examine the Scriptures and some traditions regarding the argument for transubstantiation, I find myself more inclined to this interpretation. Jimmy Akin, Trent Horn, Joe Heschmeyer, and especially Scott Hahn and Brant Pitre have argued very well on this subject. However, in the case of a book by Father Frederick William Faber on Purgatory, I still find myself skeptical. As I heard half a dozen arguments by Catholics to defend the doctrine of purgatory, I came to my initial suspicion that it is more philosophical rather than Scriptural. By the way, a debate between Trent and James White on this subject is interesting.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #The10MinuteRule #ReadingIsLiving #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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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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Read Books with INTENTIONAL EFFORT #LeadersAreReaders December 2023

Perhaps the problem with our reading isn’t the lack of time or interest but how we approach books. Reading is a skill and it takes an INTENTIONAL EFFORT to read with a purpose. Eugene Peterson writes, “Among our ancestors reading involved a seeking after wisdom, becoming a mature person. With us, it is more likely to be a retrieval of information so that we can answer a question or do a job. Spiritual reading is not contemptuous of information, but it has wisdom for its goal: becoming true and good, not just knowing the facts of life...” (Eat This Book, pg. 241).

Reading for information may be necessary, but it won't make us mature. Reading, alongside spiritual disciplines such as prayer and meditation, can be life-giving! God will reveal Himself and His truth to us through these practices. Words have the power - especially the Scripture - not only to transmit information, but through the work of the Holy Spirit, they can supernaturally awaken our hearts and impact our lives. Books can draw us closer to the heart of God. So, read! Read with INTENTIONAL EFFORT.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #ReadWithIntentionalEffort #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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Reading Books Is Still Revelant #LeadersAreReaders November 2023

People are far more knowledgeable now than they were in the past. With a few phone clicks, people can discover information on nearly everything. They may now learn things more quickly and easily without having to waste time reading something that might not be helpful or relevant to them. With ChatGPT and Google Search on my phone (and internet data), I'm an information demi-god. So do you!

But some things still make reading books relevant. For example, compare books with online articles #1 Books often provide in-depth exploration of a subject, offering comprehensive coverage and nuanced perspectives that online articles may lack due to their brevity; #2 Books also allow for a sustained focus, encouraging deep understanding and critical thinking; and #3 Books present ideas more clearly and thoroughly than the fragmented nature of online content allows.

But perhaps I should add #4 Books can be your friends. There is a vast difference between holding a book and holding a phone to read an online article. "Books are the quietest and most constant of friends," said Charles W. Eliot, "they are the most accessible and wisest of counselors, and the most patient of teachers." Well, use both tools but be biased toward books.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #ReadingBooksIsStillRevelant #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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10 Ways to Cultivate a Reading Culture (by ChatGPT) #LeadersAreReaders October 2023

When I was in Taiwan for IFES staff training, I observed two (2) interesting things. First, the local staff have lots of books on their office shelves; and secondly, there are about three to four bookstores around my staying area. In East Asia, Taiwan has a strong reading culture, with a high literacy rate. Reading is valued in both educational and leisure contexts. So I asked ChatGPT about how to cultivate a reading culture. It replies: "To cultivate a reading culture, consider these steps:

1. Lead by Example: Demonstrate your love for reading. When others see you enjoying books, it can inspire them to do the same.

2. Create Reading Spaces: Designate comfortable spaces for reading at home or in communal areas. A cozy reading nook or a well-lit corner can make a difference.

3. Book Clubs: Join or start a book club. Discussing books with others fosters a sense of community and can make reading a shared experience.

4. Book Recommendations: Share your favorite books and ask for recommendations. Word of mouth is a powerful way to discover new and interesting reads.

5. Set Reading Goals: Encourage setting realistic reading goals. Whether it's a certain number of books per month or exploring different genres, goals add a sense of achievement.

6. Library Access: Make sure there's easy access to a variety of books. Local libraries or book swaps within the community can enhance the availability of reading material.

7. Reading Challenges: Participate in reading challenges. Many online platforms offer challenges that can motivate individuals to diversify their reading habits.

8. Family Reading Time: Establish a routine for family reading time. This can create a positive association with reading from a young age.

9. Celebrate Reading Achievements: Acknowledge and celebrate reading achievements. This could be finishing a challenging book or reaching a personal reading milestone.

10. Incorporate Reading into Daily Life: Integrate reading into daily activities. Whether it's reading newspapers, magazines, or even e-books, make it a part of your routine."

I hope by doing no.1 "Lead by Example," through this channel, I can help to spark your passion to read books more frequently - or to start all over again the habit that once was yours. Remember, the key is to make reading enjoyable and accessible, fostering a positive environment that encourages a love for books.

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #ReadingCulture #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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Membaca Buku Ialah seperti Gim untuk Akal #LeadersAreReaders September 2023

Salah seorang ahli pemikir di Malaysia yang saya kagum ialah tuan Haji Zainal Rashid bin Ahmad atau lebih dikenali lagi sebagai ZRA. Dia merupakan bekas wartawan TV yang terkenal suatu masa dahulu, masih lagi menulis buku-buku sastera Melayu tetapi sekarang lebih aktif di media sosial mengupas isu-isu semasa dengan kaedah 'penceritaan maklumat' yang menarik dan mudah difahami. Bagi saya, ZRA ialah seorang intelektual yang rendah hati walaupun dia kadang-kadang dilihat sebagai seorang yang konfrontatif kerana dia lantang menyuarakan pendapat dan pandangan yang lebih holistik berdasarkan fakta. ZRA memang kaya dengan ilmu dan pengetahuan. ML Studios menggelar dia sebagai "ensiklopedia bergerak." Saya setuju!

Satu lagi hal yang menarik minat saya dengan ZRA ialah kemahiran dia berkomunikasi. Ini penting kerana memiliki ilmu sahaja tidak cukup. Ilmu jika tidak pandai untuk menyampaikannya adalah sia-sia. Menjadi seorang intelektual yang bosan tidak berfaedah untuk masyarakat. Memang tidak boleh dinafikan, selain daripada memiliki banyak pengalaman, ZRA juga banyak membaca buku. Dia pernah berkata, "Membaca buku ialah seperti gim untuk akal." Oleh kerana dia seorang pembaca buku yang efektif (malah turut menjual buku), dia memiliki cara pemikiran yang segar, mempunyai perbendaharaan kata yang luas, gaya bahasa yang menarik, boleh berdiskusi dalam pelbagai topik, dan pandai mengolah maklumat yang rumit menjadi mudah supaya sampai kepada para pendengar. Cuba dengar tuan Haji ZRA bercakap. Kamu akan menyedari bahawa ini ialah kata-kata daripada seorang yang beradab, berilmu dan berakal. Contohi orang sepert ini - dan baca buku!

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #ZRA #MembacaBuku #Berkomunikasi #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

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Roaring Lion: Spiritism In Borneo Challenged by the Power of Christ (1968) by Robert Peterson, Book Review

Roaring Lion: Spiritism In Borneo Challenged by the Power of Christ (1968) by Robert Peterson

 
This is an exciting book by Robert Peterson, a missionary in Borneo (particularly in Kalimantan) who has seen the Lord at work in the lives of many Chinese and some Malays who settle there. During this time (and still is), there were many customs and practices common to the animistic tribes of the islands. Spiritism and demon worship occupied a major place in their daily lives. All this while, Satan, that adversary who prowled around like a “roaring lion” (1 Peter 5:8), boldly manifested his unchallenged dominion over them. But that won’t be long, because when Christ’s faithful servants like Robert Peterson went there and preached the gospel of peace, darkness became light and our true King, “the Lion of Judah” (Revelations 5:5), reigned mightily. George M. Steed writes, “We believe it is not just coincidental that when the Lord’s servants commenced openly to challenge the power of darkness and, in the name of our victorious Lord, command the demons to come out of the possessed ones, the gates of hell began to yield and captives were set free.”

Of course, we must not believe there are demons under every bush, but we must not deny the existence and influence of demons in our world today either. The supernatural is natural in the spiritual realm. If you believe in God, then recognizing the reality of Satan and demons shouldn’t be a problem. But the sad fact is that so many Christians have little knowledge of spiritual warfare, or even if they do, they tend to ignore it. Based on my experiences and, more importantly, from the Scripture, we must remember that: “We do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12). As the author puts it, we must know a little better the ‘depths of Satan', and by knowing, we are able to ‘fight the good fight of faith.’

What I like about this book is that Peterson began the story by describing his failures in dealing with demon activities. After many encounters, risks, and mistakes, he started to examine the Scripture about the issue and progressively learned how to deal with it effectively through the power of the Holy Spirit and the living Word of God. The stories he told were very interesting because they reminded me of my own experiences during church mission trips to the interior parts of Sarawak many years ago. Read this book and know that God already gives us the weapons (for example, read Ephesians 6:13–20). The chief among them is that Christ is with and in us. “Many truths in the Word of God are a source of strength in our warfare against Satan, but the realization of the indwelling Christ and a day-by-day acknowledgement, acceptance, and utilization of this truth will set us on the victory road and keep us there,” writes Peterson. “Christ has never been and can never be defeated by Satan.” Amen.

#LeadersAreReaders #RoaringLion #TheLionOfJudah #Satan #JesusChrist #IndwellingChrist #RobertPeterson #BorneoForChrist #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

Pursuing Humility? Meditations of a Proud Heart (2021) by Joel Cornuz, Book Review

 Pursuing Humility? Meditations of a Proud Heart (2021) by Joel Cornuz

I read this book on a flight from Taiwan to Kuala Lumpur. As soon as I and my colleague landed home, I told them very proudly, “Yes, I’ve finished reading a book on humility!” What an irony! Letting people know that I’ve read books on humility (such as this one and Andrew Murray’s) is probably a sign of my pride. Maybe yes, maybe not. But it is more challenging if I write a book on humility. Joel Cornuz thought so in his introduction: “If you pretend to teach about humility, you already demonstrate pride. Go and present yourself as an expert on the subject, and you disqualify yourself from talking about it. ‘I am the best, especially at humility.' The statement may be funny, but it reflects the reality of the problem.” As the author revealed in the book about his own pride, I saw mine all too obvious too.

Thus, I find this book—a series of the author’s meditations on humility from the Scripture—very helpful in pointing out my personal sin of pride and being independent from God, either intentionally or unintentionally. It was scary, but I needed the realizations that I gained from this book. The Holy Spirit speaks through the meditations of His Word. I need humility, or more accurately, I need God for humility, or, essentially, I need God. Joel concludes, “Humility is first recognizing the reality of who I am (a proud person in need of forgiveness) and who God is (the one who offers me the forgiveness I so desperately need); humility is then accepting my dependence on that God (without Him, I can do nothing); and finally, it is placing my life at his disposal for the service of those around me (and for His glory).”

It is the humble recognition that God (YHWH) is God and placing our dependence on Him that freed us from the weight of pride so that we could be more like Christ, the ultimate embodiment and example of humility. Remember the word that says, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble” (James 4:6; 1 Peter 5:5, Proverbs 3:34) #ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #Humility #Pride #LikeChrist #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

*Thanks to FES Singapore for the gift!

To read my other book reviews/summaries, CLICK HERE

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.