Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."
Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world.
Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
There is one key aspect of God's promise to Abraham (Gen 17v1-9) still to be fulfilled. He has become a great nation that has inherited the land of Canaan and given God's covenant law to obey. But as yet, kings have only been anticipated. The book of 1 Samuel records the rise of monarchy in Israel, but begins with her most righteous judge - Samuel. His parents are righteous too and his Mum's song on being given the child she prayed for is of such significance that Mary modelled her own on it (Lk 1v46-55). And there is an encouraging note here about prayer itself. God hears and "remembers" those who love him, even when praying over their personal struggles. As you read, note what else we learn about the LORD.1 Samuel 1:1-2:11
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.
Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.