When I was around five years old, I often wanted to read when it was time to go to bed. After my mom tucked me in at night and turned out the light, I’d sneak out from under my covers, tip-toe quietly across the room, and open the door to my happy place—my bedroom closet. In that tiny space, I learned. I dreamed. I had crazy adventures in far-off places. Many nights my mom would find me sitting on the floor of my closet, surrounded by books, still wide-awake long past my bedtime. Years later, I still enjoy curling up with a good book (but not necessarily in my closet!).
You may be an avid reader like me, or you might steer clear of books. But I think we can agree on one thing: Leaders are readers.
Whether you’re a parent raising a child, a boss supervising a department, a pastor shepherding a congregation, or a college student facilitating a Bible study, you can benefit from reading for the following reasons:
1) Reading increases your knowledge.
If you’re gathering information about traveling to Europe, looking for decorating tips, or trying to figure out how to be a better parent, you can glean information from people who have more experience and knowledge than you have. Reading is a great way to learn and grow in your understanding of any subject.
2) Reading expands your vocabulary.
When I come across a word in a book I don’t know, I’ll look online to find out its meaning (unless I’m feeling lazy). Even though I may never use that particular word in conversation, it’s still nice to learn a new term in case I see it again sometime. If I do, then I’ll know the definition.
3) Reading allows you to escape.
If you’ve had a rough day, you can open up a book and take a break from your problems temporarily. This aspect is one of my favorite parts of reading—that I can “lose myself” in a story for a little while.
4) Reading inspires you.
A couple of months ago, I read I’ll Push You, a true story about two best friends—one of them in a wheelchair—who set out to complete the Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile trek through Spain. After reading the book, I was encouraged and motivated, not necessarily to attempt the same feat, but to challenge myself to do more than I think I can.
Below I’ve highlighted a few titles I recommend—books that cover a wide variety of topics, including fasting. My goal is to encourage you and equip you with information so you can grow in the Lord, accomplish his purposes for your life, and lead others well!
Happy reading!
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