Due to the tragic problem of ignorance and passivity in our world today, I’ve been extolling the benefits of reading. Yesterday, we talked about number one: reading sweeps the cobwebs away; it expands us. Today, I’ll note three additional benefits. 2. Reading increases our power of concentration. Through this discipline, the mind is programmed to observe and absorb. It replaces the “Entertain Me” mentality with “Challenge Me.”
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Reading, Part One
The three Rs have stood the test of time as reliable criteria for a dependable education. They are poised like disciplined sentinels against one of man’s greatest enemies: ignorance. The original blocks of granite, unimpressed by educational styles, unmoved by change, these three solid friends are trustworthy to the end. Like salve on an open sore, they reduce the fever of panic, giving stability when so many voices demand obedience.
Read MoreHoudini’s Secret, Part One
Erich Weiss was a remarkable man. By the time of his death he was famous around the world. Never heard of him, huh? Maybe this will help. He was born of Hungarian-Jewish parentage at Appleton, Wisconsin, in 1874. He became the highest-paid entertainer of his day. That still doesn’t help much, does it? This will. When he finally got his act together, Weiss adopted a stage name: Harry Houdini . . .
Read MoreUnderstatements
You’ve heard of “too little and too late.” How about “too many and too much”? That’s the way I’d describe our times. In a society overrun with overstatements, I find an occasional “not quite enough” a sheer delight. Too much empty talk. Too much rich food. Too much emphasis on success, winning, being the biggest and the best. Too much comparison and commercialism.
Read MoreAccumulations
Garages tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. They are the ideal catch-alls because the space is really flexible. Unlike a bedroom or kitchen, garages don’t have to be filled with what they’re made for. And with driveways just waiting to be occupied, who needs to hassle that big door every morning and every evening? Just nail it shut and fill ‘er up. And isn’t it amazing the amount of stuff?
Read MoreBeing Real, Part One
Dave Cowens, one-time star basketball center for the Boston Celtics, disappeared. Without warning, he walked off the practice court, showered, dressed, and drove away. Alone. He kept driving to . . . somewhere. His only explanation was the familiar comment, “I need to get my head together.” He added that it could take as little as two weeks or as much as ten years.
Read MoreA Bridge Called Credibility, Part Two
Listen to what the Scriptures have to say about keeping your word: Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor. (Ephesians 4:25 NIV) And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus. (Colossians 3:17 NIV) LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary? Who may live on your holy hill? He whose walk is blameless . . .
Read MoreA Bridge Called Credibility, Part One
March 11, 1942, was a dark, desperate day at Corregidor. The Pacific theater of war was threatening and bleak. One island after another had been buffeted into submission. The enemy was now marching into the Philippines as confident and methodical as the star band in the Rose Bowl parade. Surrender was inevitable.
Read MoreSelf-Control
Willpower is a forgotten word amidst most Christian circles today. Many of us are soft, flabby, and fat either outwardly or inwardly . . . or both. The overindulgence and underachievement of our age have created a monster whose brain is lazy, vision is blurred, hands are greedy, skin is thin, middle is round, and seat is wide. Color him baby blue!
Read MoreThe Ghost of Ephraim, Part Two
As we have been discussing, homes and churches across the country today are haunted by ghosts of the Ephraimites, men who were skilled and fully equipped for battle but who turned and fled when the going got tough (see Psalm 78:9). Yes, “Let’s just quit” are household words. A marriage gets shaky and hits a few hard jolts—”Let’s just quit.” When a personal dream or goal in life is met with hurdles and hardship—both goal and dream are soon forgotten.
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