When my daughter started to read, she would not give us rest at home. She would read aloud virtually everything she comes across. From what is on the TV, to your phone conversation, to Bible, books and what have you. She has finished many story books. I tried not to consider her reading spree as a disturbance, I want to encourage her to continue that reading culture.

Friend, do you have a reading culture? Remember, “the person that does not read is not better than the one that cannot read.” It was said some time ago that if you want to hide something from an African, hide it in a book. I hope and believe this is no longer true. But it is a good challenge for everyone.

“…Have you not read…?” (Matthew 19:4). Those were the words of Jesus; have you not read? Your confusions are largely a result of lack of reading. The year is almost far spent; what have you read, what are you reading, what’s your reading plan? Don’t assume you are reading. Don’t confuse social media engagement with a studious life.

Those who read do not and cannot afford to spend too much time on social media. Paul told Timothy to “study to show yourself approved unto God…” (2 Timothy 2:15). Daniel understood by books (Daniel 9:2). Paul led a studious life; he wouldn’t joke with his books and parchments (2 Timothy 4:13). Jesus had a custom of reading (Luke 2:46-49, 4:16-21).

Most notably great people are known to be studious people. Unlike other religions, Christianity promotes literacy and eradicates ignorance. Our deliverance and progress in the Christian Faith is predicated on our studious life (John 8:31-32). Great books are platforms for great encounters. Begin with the Bible but don’t stop there. Some anointed books help you to understand the Bible better.

The reason you are struggling with hearing God’s voice may be because you are not a committed reader; reading provides platforms for divine communication (Psalms 29:3). Reading is a discipline, and it must be a practise. Nobody has the gift of reading, people develop the habit of reading. Just like nobody can eat for you, nobody can read for you; you have got to read for yourself!

© ‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria