As I continue unpacking boxes at my newest location, these two posts were encouraging reads about the very material items I am guilty of having too many of: BOOKS. My friend Alicia shares "The Man With the Books" on her husband's blog. On the same blog, another friend of ours, Mark, shares "The Value of a Good Book". I can recommend the authors of the articles and the blog I've provided links for because I know them. The following quotes are by people I do not know, but I find their quotes interesting enough to share.
Books are the windows through which the soul looks out. Henry Ward Beecher
People will not be better than the books they read. Bishop Potter
Books are not made for furniture, but there is nothing else that so beautifully furnishes a house. Henry Ward Beecher
Introspectively, I have asked myself "Do I really need these books?"
Bible Study Helps
The Word of God states in II Timothy 4:13 that Paul requested books be brought to him. The cloke that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. I don't claim to be near Paul's caliber of Christian character, except that I relate to the chiefest of sinners part, yet I do appreciate his reference to needing books. II Timothy 2:15 commands: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. My simple way of "dividing the word of truth" is by using Strong's Concordance. It helps me understand the original meanings of the words. Yes, this is another book that assists me in my foundational Book of books ~ the Holy Bible. With increased technology, I enjoy using The Blue Letter Bible tool to quickly access Strong's Concordance, any Scripture reference I'm searching for, as well as several commentaries available.
Biographies & Testimonials
Since childhood, I have always preferred "real life" movies over cartoons or fictitious movies. Yes, I was and am probably too serious as I seem to never find time to relax and watch a movie anymore… or at least stay awake through one. All that to say I think biographies are very helpful books to digest because we can learn from "real life" people. The Bible speaks of how we sometimes go through trials that will help us be a comfort to others in the same trial in later days. Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. II Corinthians 1:4 What a gift we have from those who are called to write about their personal experiences to help others in hours of heartache and trial!
Educational & Non-Fiction
If the opportunity ever arises to be a librarian, I would probably say yes… books, research, quiet, organization, labels, pens & paper… sounds quite tempting… maybe, I should become one in my own home? I'm a "historical/how-to" girl… doesn't sound too exciting… but that's how God made me. I definitely never won the Miss Personality or Star Smile awards, but He put inside me what He knew I would need for my specially designed journey. He knew way before I did that I would be homeschooling my nine children at various times in life. (He also knew that "fine number nine" way before me, too.)
Fiction & Classics
In previous years, my children and I have been seen culling through the free books that the library was discarding. Children's fiction before 1960 is a favorite. Of course, there are many wonderful treasures written in our day, as well. Classic is classic.
Music
I just have to add this category! Have you ever just read through an old hymnal or Gospel songbook? It is amazing how songs written long ago can minister to the immediate need of my heart today, oftentimes. It is a way in which we can strengthen ourselves in the LORD. Recently, a dear family friend sent my Dad a package during his extendend hospital stay. Within it was an old songbook that belonged to Mrs. John R. Rice. My Dad thumbed through it and though weak, sang through one of the songs. Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. –Ephesians 5:19 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. –Colossians 3:13 My pastor's wife pointed me to this verse today. Music is pretty important too.
My answer to myself: Yes, I need lots of them! (But not all of them – I truly could live without them, but they are helpful resources.)