Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future. (Proverbs 19:20)
Never in history has it been easier for a Christian, or anyone interested in Christianity, to find resources about any area of Christianity that interests them. Technology enables us to choose from a wide variety of platforms that have Christian content.
I have a daily routine that involves making use of several different platforms to “listen to advice and accept instruction”. I begin everyday with the verse of the day on the YouVersion bible app. I listen to an audiobook on the Audible App while I work out each morning. The books I listen to usually concern Christian topics. When I drive to work, I listen to a podcast, usually “The Briefing” with Albert Mohler. I end every day reading an ebook on my Kindle. I’m currently reading Confessions by Saint Augustine. In addition to these tools that I use every day, I also often watch YouTube, and there are several websites that I visit often. In the Resource section of the FaithfulThought website, I am working on compiling as many of the resources I use as I can. This is pretty slow work, but hopefully soon it will be a fairly comprehensive guide.
When searching for sources of Christian thought, it is important to keep in mind that not all writings about Christian topics are equal. First and most importantly there is the inspired word of God, the Bible. The Bible was written by men, but through the direct inspiration of God. Next are those writings that are not the inspired word of God, but have historically been a part of Christian worship and teaching throughout most of church history. These are the creeds, confessions, and catechisms which are important in the life of many churches. The third category of Christian writing includes everything else. Many of these books and resources are produced by respected scholars, theologians, preachers, and teachers.
How do you decide what you will benefit from reading? If you attend a church, I would begin there. Many churches have suggested reading material, and even a library. Some websites and podcasts also recommend resources. Albert Mohler hosts a podcast called “Thinking in Public” where he discusses a book with the author of the book. Websites like Ligonier Ministries also sell many resources. Read book reviews, and research authors. There is a lot of information out there.
It is not a bad idea to expose yourself to ideas that you don’t agree with. If you are a young earth creationist, read something from a thoughtful author who believes that the world may be much older. If you believe in full submersion baptism, read something that defends baptism by sprinkling. Always go back to scripture to decide if an idea or practice has validity.
The Christian Faith is about where you will spend eternity, which makes it the most important thing in your life. Think, read, and pray on it daily.