How to make reading books part of your discipleship to Jesus
By 
Sydney Tooth2026-03-23T14:01:00
As the UK launches the National Year of Reading, Sydney Tooth explores how reading books can help Christians to grow in empathy, discipline and virtue
Reading for pleasure is at an all-time low in the United Kingdom.
In response, the Department for Education and National Literacy Trust have christened 2026 the “National Year of Reading”, with a motto of “Go All In”.
The encouragement is to see reading as “a powerful plug-in to the things you already love—a great way to go deeper into your existing passions” – such as baking, gaming, sports, art and music. It’s a good way to think about the diverse ways people can participate in reading, and I hope it does spur on an increase in reading across the country.
Reading is a powerful formative tool; it’s something that can shape us in ways that nothing else can. Here’s how we as Christians can harness the power of reading to grow in our love for God and his creation.
Related articles
-
ReviewsWhat I Play Rocky can teach Christians about keeping the faith
The true story of how Sylvester Stallone wrote, sold and starred in Rocky is an inspirational tale about having faith in yourself says Giles Gough. For Christians, it’s a timely reminder to trust in God and the dreams He gives us - even when they seem impossible
-
OpinionThis polygamous pastor is leading his flock astray. Here’s what the Bible really says
A pastor in Ohio has hit the headlines after introducing his second wife to his church and claiming that monogamy is ‘unbiblical’. Responding to the story, the Evangelical Alliance’s Peter Lynas argues the Bible contains polygamy but never condones it
-
OpinionWant to share your faith? Here are 4 ways to change gear
People are increasingly open to spirituality, says Darin Stevens, but the way we talk about Jesus needs to change. Here’s how to avoid stalling at the first stop and switch gears to keep the conversation moving
More from Features
-
FeaturesThe Future List: 30 under 30 Christians who are changing the world
From music, sport and fashion to business, technology and environmental activism, meet 30 inspiring young Christians who are using their talents and influence to make a difference. These emerging leaders, creatives and changemakers are bringing fresh hope to an uncertain world – and showing us why the future is bright
-
FeaturesMade to make: Why every Christian is called to creativity
Creativity isn’t just for artists, musicians and writers. Dr Amy Orr-Ewing explains why creating is fundamental to what it means to be made in the image of God – whether you’re making dinner, solving problems or choosing a gift
-
FeaturesJack Reacher shoots first. Jesus tells us to forgive 77 times
The gun-toting hero of Lee Child’s bestselling thrillers has a simple approach to justice: shoot the bad guys. But as Malcolm Gladwell’s latest book considers America’s real-life epidemic of gun violence, could Christians offer a powerful alternative to the endless cycle of revenge?
- Issues
- Topics A-Z
- Writers A-Z
- © 2026 Premier Christianity
Site powered by Webvision Cloud