Summer is upon us, and it is the time for reading, not because we must, but because we want to. I have always been an avid reader, but sometimes the rest of the world doesn’t seem to see the joy in books that I do.

In fact, the reading habits of the “average” US citizen might surprise you. Did you know that the newspapers of old were written at a 6th to 8th grade level?  And the easier the read, the more papers were sold. Or as one writer put it, “… the dumber the writing, the higher the readership.”

Romance novels are usually written at a 5th grade reading level. Popular spy and mystery novels (think Grisham, Clancy, King and Cussler) are all at about a 7th grade level. And according to one website (www.hamradio-online.com), the “White House writes its press releases at the same level as the Nickelodeon children’s TV network.”

When you consider that some 42 million adult Americans cannot read at all and another 8 million are considered functionally illiterate, we do have a problem. We spend over $10 billion every year on literacy education and still 20% of high school seniors still struggle to read at all.

With all that as a backdrop, consider Paul’s personal words to his young protégé Timothy. In II Timothy 2:15, he says “Study (another translation says, ‘Do your best’) to show yourself approved unto God, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the Word of God.”

The original Greek word for “study” means to make every effort to be eager, to be diligent. Paul is pressing this inexperienced pastor to read, study and apply God’s Word.

Maybe this summer you and I ought to set some reading goals. It’s fine to pick some novels, a biography or two and even some non-fiction stuff. Maybe set aside one night for “book reports.” Let everyone in the family talk about what they are reading (mom and dad too!). Or designate one evening for costumes and silliness as each family member discusses their book. Make reading fun.

But let’s make sure there are some summer Bible reading goals too.

The App “YOUVERSION” has all kinds of reading plans. Something will fit your interest and personal schedule! Throw a book (or your kindle, or your iPad) in the car and be ready for those “hurry up and wait moments” as you travel or play uber driver for your kids this summer.

Let’s allow God’s Word to teach us, rebuke us, encourage us and sustain us through a wonderful summer!