Read: Philippians 4:4-9

After the message this past Sunday I have had several people ask for suggestions on what to read, what to listen to, what to watch, and so on, in order to help us focus on eternal things and grow in our faith in Jesus.  I encouraged this during the message and Jenni Marner also encouraged us during the children’s time with the verses from Philippians 4:4-9.  Those verses encourage us to think (read, listen, watch) about things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy.

So, here is my list of suggestions.  Of course there could be many more, this is just a place to start but I am sure many of you could add your own great suggestions to these lists…

Read
– The Bible (of course). Specifically start with the Gospels like Matthew or John
– “Just Like Jesus” by Max Lucado (An easy read about the ways of Jesus in your life)
– “Mere Christianity” by C.S. Lewis (A classic Christian book, a bit more deeper)
– “Celebration of Discipline” by Richard J. Foster (Easier read about spiritual disciplines)
– “A Long Obedience In The Same Direction” by Eugene Peterson (Deeper but very good)
– World Magazine and Website (Biblically objective journalism on the news) world.wng.org

Listen
– The Bible (Most websites and phone apps now allow you to listen to the Word audibly)
– All kinds of worship music or hymns (Most streaming sites have endless options)
– Christian podcasts on streaming services or websites. (Be careful to stay with truth of God)
– Go to YouTube and listen to Billy Graham classics or other nationally respected preachers.

Watch
– Right Now Media has thousands of wonderful videos, studies, etc. to grow in your faith.
– T.V. Shows or documentaries that are clean and helpful in entertaining and informing.
– Movies that are faith based and present a positive message about Christ and Life.
– News that provides good unbiased reporting (Local news, or my recent favorite is NewsNation (7-10 pm) on WGN America.  Be wise and discerning as you look for truth in the news) 

Make it personal: If a friend came up to you and asked for suggestions what would you recommend?  The more we share with each other the more we learn about how to help others and lead others to what Paul encourages in Philippians 4:8.  Let’s grow in Christ and keep seeking the Lord in all of our options.

Have a great week, Glen Rhodes