I think it is important that we are constantly sharpening ourselves. We have to have balance in that because we should also be using our knowledge to help others and minister and make a difference for the kingdom of God in the world. It is possible to be a sharp knife that stays in the block. But how much better is it if we are constantly being put to use and constantly sharpening ourselves? It has been some time since I have updated the “Currently Reading” Section of the sidebar that is a little ways down the blog on the right hand side but I finally got around to it. If I put it there it means I think it is an important read. If you look down there here is what you will find.
- Who Rules Your Life? Exploring the Kingdom Parables of Jesus by Prentice Meador
- Brother Meador passed away a couple of years ago but his writings continue to make a difference. This book is somewhat dated but so full of helpful information in reading and interpreting Jesus’ parables.
- Communicating for a Change: 7 Keys to Irresistible Communication by Andy Stanley
- This is one of the better books on preaching that I have read. Andy Stanley is such a great communicator. It is nice to be able to learn from his experience and why he believes his approach is so successful. If you are a preacher I highly recommend you read this book.
- Hurt: Inside the World of Today’s Teenagers by Chap Clark
- Chap Clark spent a large amount of time with teens, getting to know them, asking them questions, and compiling his findings in this book. This is not just a book for youth ministers. This is a book anyone in ministry should have under their belt because we often take it for granted that people are all pretty much the same with the same problems, needs, etc. But this book shows us just how much things have changed in the last 10 years and how our assumptions about teenagers might not be valid. It gives us an inside look at their lives and their unique needs.
