You may have noticed a cabinet just beside the reception table. It contains books. Most of these books were donated by different people. They include topics about evangelism, Christian doctrines, cults, apologetics, the Christian walk, sufferings, serving, parenting, work, teenagers’ issues, etc. For one reason or another, this cabinet which had intended to be our library, was not properly utilized. Thank and praise the Lord. Some people came forward to oil this important engine. They have put some shine on the machine called “library.” Today, we are happy to have our first library day. There will be a small display of books for adults and children. There will also be story-telling time. It’s a small but important step to inculcating the habit of reading good Christian literature. Why is it important?

Let me give you an analogy. If you want to renovate a house, you will need a contractor to coordinate the works. You may also prefer to buy the accessories yourself instead of leaving the task to the contractor to purchase them. These accessories include things like air-con, fans, clocks, taps, etc. But what are reliable brands and what shops offer competitive prices? One way of finding out is to look up websites where internet bloggers share about their experience. You can pose your question on the blog and someone might provide you the relevant information. Information sharing is important to making informed choices for the reason that no one has all the answers. The same applies to spiritual things. The Bible says in 1 Cor 12:4-7:

There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.

When someone receives Jesus as Lord and Saviour, the Third Person of the Truine God, the Holy Spirit comes to live in our hearts to become our help in life. He also gives us at least one special gift. It can be the gift of teaching, caring, evangelism or others. There are many kinds of gifts. You will receive a special ability that enables you to serve in church that is effective for building the lives of Christians. Why do we read good Christian literature?

Different authors are gifted in different ways. Some, for example, are especially equipped to handle difficult children. By reading what that person writes, you get the best advice. By reading various authors gifted in various matters, you get the best out of everyone. You actually get the best tips without even having to know them personally. You would have shortened your learning path and avoided many heartaches of learning through trial and error. For this reason, we must read good Christian literature. In this way, you will be equipped and be able to grow holistically.

I encourage you to browse through some of the titles that are displayed. I also urge you to look through the books in the bookshelves. There are many gems, in particular, books that have been recognized as excellent for a particular area of growth.

Reading is not difficult. If you pick up a 100 page book, you can finish the book in 20 days if you read just 5 pages a day. You can read it during your MRT trip or whilst waiting for a bus. May you develop the habit of reading good Christian literature. Then you will grow and lead a balanced Christian life.