Prioritize Reading

“When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, also the books, and above all the parchments.”
-2 Timothy 4:13

Beloved Kinney,

When the apostle Paul was in jail, he requested several things from Timothy, two of
which were “books and parchments.” We’re not sure exactly what the books or
parchments were, perhaps copies of Old Testament books other edifying works to read.
The point is that Paul clearly valued reading.

If you’ve read 2 Timothy, you know that Paul viewed his life as coming to end soon. He
likely had a death sentence from emperor Nero. So this letter was penned perhaps just
a few weeks or months before Nero executed him.

And yet, what does he ask Timothy to bring him? What would you ask your friend to
bring you to prison, knowing that life on this earth was soon coming to an end? Would
you request books? Paul did.

He valued reading. So should we.

As you know, over this summer, I had the privilege of reading A LOT! I’m so grateful for
being able to dedicate several hours almost every day simply to reading (mostly) good
Christian books. (As you might tell from the picture of books I read this summer, not all
the books were good. Some I would highly recommend; others…not so much. But
reading widely can be helpful in sharpening what you believe!) I learned a lot, was
reminded of a lot, and forgot a lot!

But it was so beneficial, and I commend it to you. Of course, I’m not suggesting that you
dedicate hours per day to reading. It’s highly unlikely you have that kind of time. I don’t
anymore! BUT I am encouraging you to try to set aside a little bit of time each day to
reading good books other than the Bible. (NOTE: I’m assuming you’re reading your
Bible every day!) OR dedicate some extended time one day per week to reading good
books.

Good reading sharpens your mind, stirs your heart, drives away stagnation, and
(should) point you to Christ.

I know it’s tough to find the time. I know it’s tough to muster up the energy. But it is
worth it. Put down your phone for 15 mins. Don’t watch that TV show. Get up a tad bit
early. Do what you gotta do to add reading to your schedule. I trust you won’t regret it.

My plan in the coming weeks for the Word from the Pastor will be to provide devotional
thoughts on some of the things I read over this summer. I pray it will encourage your
soul AND might encourage you to pick up a good book and read.

Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Josh