I saw this book “tree” earlier this week in Nashville, Tennessee, at a used book outlet. It brought to my mind an idea I’ve suggested to many through the years. It may or may not be practical to you …

Today’s Bible Lesson …

Paul long ago wrote to young Timothy: “The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, BRING with thee, and THE BOOKS, but especially the parchments.” Some of the last words the venerable old man of God ever wrote, far as we know. 2 Timothy 4:13, “BRING THE BOOKS!”

He loved books, Paul did.

He used them throughout his life, being a man of letters. His own words of testimony, Acts 22:3. “I am verily a man which am a Jew, born in Tarsus, a city in Cilicia, yet brought up in this city AT THE FEET OF GAMALIEL, and taught according to the perfect manner of the law of the fathers, and was zealous toward God.” To “sit at someone’s feet” in Paul’s day meant to study under their tutelage. Such an education would have demanded, necessitated books.

For some reason Paul (in our Text Verse) needed to do some reading, studying … books from his “library!”

I have often hoped Timothy arrived with them “in time,” while Paul was still alive.

My suggestion today …

Since nearly every Preacher “needs” books, “uses” books in his study of the Word of God, regularly and diligently … and since we are at the first of a new year, a time for “resolutions” … someone could help your Church begin a “book fund” for the Pastor!

Allow a set amount each month ($25.00 or $50.00 or up) to be used exclusively to purchase new study material for the man who weekly “feeds” you the Truth of Scripture. Make it part of the Church budget!

And let the books be HIS, not merely part of a Church library.

What a delightful way to tell a Preacher, “We love you and appreciate your ministry.”

And if it’s not feasible for the Church to help every month (budgetary reasons, political reasons, whatever) consider doing it yourself … for the Pastor. The amount might have to be less … maybe a book a month … but still you would be adding to his repertoire of resource information.

Just an idea.

Any Preacher could give you a list of books on his “need to buy” list.

And guess who the ultimate beneficiary will be, due to your generosity?

Yes, the man of God will grow … but yes, you will too!

Psalm 119 (all 176 verses) is dedicated to the Word of God. Teaching us the innumerable benefits of studying that precious Volume. Anything that helps do this … likely will be blessed of the Lord!

I pray someone follows my suggestion!

— Dr. Mike Bagwell