Last week, I wrote about our plans for the month of July. In addition to many other plans, I hope to have extra time to read. Pastors must read to stay fresh and help their congregations. I experience many times where the demands of the pastorate and my schedule don’t allow me to read as much as I would like. July helps get me back up to speed.

For me, reading is in five important areas:

First, I want and need to read the Scripture. The month of July allows me the opportunity to do extended reading in the Bible. Each July I read through the New Testament (270 chapters, 9 chapters a day for 30 days). It is the highlight of what I do each July. During the remainder of the year, I read three chapters of Scripture each day from the Old Testament, allowing me to complete the Bible in a year.

This plan is not for everyone, but it fits me very well. Other people spend as much time as I do looking at a verse or a few verses. Each person should do as they find helpful.

Second, I read books of theology, Christian history, spiritual disciplines, and church leadership. These vary from deep theology books to light devotional books. The point is to stay current with what is happening in the Christian world and to find books which challenge me to greater spiritual insight.

Third, I read books of history, finance, politics, sports, and productivity. These are areas which help me in general ways. And, I enjoy these topics. For example, today I read Laura Vanderkam’s new ebook with the intriguing title: What The Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast. In a few days, I will give you a review and critique. It may help you as well.

Fourth, I read books which you recommend and are reading. This includes all kinds of books on varied subjects. I almost always read what is popularly read by believers. For that reason, I read the entire Left Behind series–and I liked it. You may remember my assessment–great fiction, stirring literature, poor theology.

At this point, I must be quick to point out that I can’t read every book you want me to read. Numerous people want me to read and assess books. You probably know I simply can’t make those kind of promises. I do read the books which Christians generally read, such as Left Behind.

Fifth, I read novels. I love fictional history. At the present time, I am reading Herman Wouk’s The Hope which describes the establishment of the nation Israel in 1948. This kind of novel excites me and I have a hard time putting it down, which keeps me up later than I need.

If you would like to know other areas I want to conquer during July, you can read Our Plans For July.

When I find helpful books, I will share some of those with you from time to time.

If you would like to receive my daily posts, you can subscribe at the top of the page. This is my ministry across the internet, and I would appreciate your sharing this with as many people as possible. I have now completed a year of daily blogging. I love it. In the next few days, I will share some of the most popular posts. Thank you for reading, subscribing, and recommending.