Tips For The Reader

 

 

Tip: Look for natural frames. Peer through doorways, tree branches, rocks, architecture, and more. It could be just the thing needed to add that artsy touch.

I discovered this little shop during a trip to Friday Harbor last summer. The side of the little early-American style house had a large sign simply stating, "BOOKS". After working at a library for the past 11 years, that's all that is necessary to get me to walk in. I opened the door and was immediately enchanted as I snapped the photograph above.

Books mean stories, entertainment, and most importantly, knowledge. Some people love them, other people just don't get the attraction. Wherever you stand, scripture has some good pointers that we can take to mind and apply to the topic (and whether or not the header applies to you, read it anyway- these verses are for everybody!):

To the avid reader- "Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord, and turn away from evil." (Proverbs 3:7) It is easy to look at other people and feel good about how smart you are. Don't even go there; that is not what knowledge is for. Yes, take in all those books, but do it to the glory of God and to encourage others to move towards Him.

To the one who can't stand reading- "I have stored up Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against You." (Psalm 119:11) I know you may not enjoy reading, but even if you never read another book in your life, please at least read the Bible. We can only honor God if we obey His commands, and we can't very well do that without reading His word (and reading it repeatedly- we humans are pretty skilled at forgetfulness).

To everyone in between- "Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on the earth." (Colossians 3:2) Whatever find yourself reading, keep God in mind. If the book is full of good Christian morals, praise Him and strive to live out the qualities presented. If the pages are filled with dark deeds, foul motives, and other things displeasing to our Creator, use it as a reminder and warning- that is the fallen world in which we are to be ambassadors of Christ. It is not our permanent home, and someday it shall all be condemned and judged by God; never get sucked into that way of life.