The Book is So Much Better
Have you ever really enjoyed a movie or television series and then had someone tell you, “Oh, the book is so much better”? If you’re like me, you may have thought, “Yeah, you’re probably right, but who wants to read the book after you’ve already seen the movie?” Then every now and then, there’s a television or movie adaptation that’s so enjoyable or challenging that years later I think, “I bet the book is even better.”
Recently, I heard an extraordinary communicator talk about the value of reading fiction, specifically novels, and how they expand his ability to express himself in ways that connect him with his audiences. I rarely read novels, but I was so inspired and convicted by his message that I made a vow to search for the perfect novel to fine tune my communication with the men I serve through our workplace Bible studies and leadership coaching. It couldn’t be too sappy, trendy, or academic. It had to be just the right concoction of old school testosterone fueled adventure, a seemingly impossible challenge, and fiercely loyal friendships forged in blood, sweat, and deep belly laughs.
Within hours I was scrolling endlessly through Amazon searches - No, no, no, no, no… Then, there it was! The moment I saw Larry McMurtry’s Lonesome Dove, I knew it checked all the boxes.
I think I’ve seen the television adaption of this book twice in the last twenty years and liked it just as much the second time. That’s saying a lot for a guy who hates watching anything after I figure out the ending.
Just the size of the book screamed, “This is way better than the television series!” So just days before Christmas, to the annual dismay of my wife and kids, I bought myself a gift.
What a beauty! At nearly two inches thick, and with a little gold sticker proclaiming, “Winner of the Pulitzer Prize,” it’s impressive. I found the perfect place on a little oak table right next to my recliner. I even imagined some of the comments my friends would make when they spotted this familiar title in my living room. I felt better about myself for having it. I imagined that balance of manliness and size would impress any of my friends, regardless of where they happen to stand on the man scale. I just knew there would be so much rich content that never made it to the screen between these covers. I would be better for having such a prize.
It's been forty-six days. I opened it near the middle one day and found myself neck-deep in that memorable scene where a cowboy is bitten by snakes as he crosses the river. That recognition brought a slight smile and sense of satisfaction. Then I set it down and picked up my phone, confident I’d dive into this treasure of a book soon. I’ve sat in that recliner nearly every night, focused on the TV, my phone, conversations, or work. The book is not better than the television series. Reading the book may be way better that the tv series, but I wouldn’t know.
I must sound like a fool. I bought a book that I believe to be better than the best adaption of it, which I loved. I carefully chose it from endless options. I displayed it, thinking others would think more highly of me for having it. I felt better for having it. I randomly opened it and recognized something someone else had interpreted. But with so much confidence in this book’s capacity to speak to me, I haven’t started reading it. What a waste, right?
Yet, before you judge me too harshly, consider the Bible. Most of my readers own a Bible. Most either carefully chose it or it was given to you by someone else who carefully chose it for you. Surely others who see it think more highly of you. Perhaps you think more highly of yourself for having it. Maybe you have the perfect place for it. Every sermon, Bible study teaching, Christian podcast, or devotional is an adaptation or interpretation of the Bible. You know the book is even better than those adaptations. You can open it and find verses from those adaptations. But you know there is so much more rich content than what you’ve heard preached. You know this book has the capacity to speak to you in profound ways. You know it can change your life.
But are you reading it?
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” Matthew 4:4
“The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.” John 6:63
“For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
“Is not my word like fire,” declares the Lord, “and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces? Jeremiah 23:29
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word.” Psalm 119:9