What are you reading, Dr. Timms?

With the proliferation of books today, I’m increasingly drawn to the “classics” — those books that have stood the test of time and influence. Andrew Murray’s 19th century little book, Humility: The Journey Toward Holiness, fits that criteria perfectly. And his insights on the human condition, biblical truth, and spiritual formation run deep.

In just twelve short chapters (the whole book is less than 100 pages!), Murray — a 19th century South African pastor and theologian — convinced me that humility is not just one virtue among many but the foundation for all virtue. Pride, the antithesis of humility, consistently sets us up against each other and against God. Therefore, a lifestyle of humility becomes essential. The deepest love demands the deepest humility. This little book challenges, encourages, instructs, and inspires me. Yes, that’s saying a lot but it’s not saying too much. I commend it to all followers of Jesus. It knocks my socks off!

What’s next for me? I’ve also just read Gregg Ten Elshof’s I Told Me So: Self-Deception and the Christian Life. Excellent – but for a later review. And currently I’m reading Mark Herringshaw’s The Karma of Jesus. For fun (when on vacation) I’ll pick up a John Grisham or an (old) Frederick Forsyth novel. That’s a great place to escape for a while!

Dr. David Timms has been at Hope International University for the past 10 years, leading the graduate ministry program and getting to know some remarkable people who pour their lives out humbly and selflessly for the cause of Christ day after day. He is Chair of the SGPS Ministry Department and Professor of New Testament and Theology.

Andrew Murray, Humility: The Journey Toward Holiness, Bethany House, 2001.

Available from Bethany House, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.