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
The gifts of prophecy and tongues are the focus here. Christians differ in what they understand them to be. Is prophecy insightful preaching, a clear message from God by vision, or just the communication of something he brings to mind? Is tongues a miraculous ability to speak in a heavenly language or a foreign language? Whatever one's conclusions, two principles should govern their use like all else. The first is love. It is this that causes the Christian to stand out, not the exciting nature of their gift. It is seen in a Christlike bearing with others and acting for their good not one's own. In a church where particularly gifted people might look down on others, such love was especially needed. And love was the reason people should refrain from speaking in tongues without an interpretation. Instructing and benefitting others was to take precedence. The second principle is therefore order. Love is to be expressed in the church through an ordering that ensures everyone is edified, those needing to speak are heard, and unbelievers are considered. God's order for male-female roles is also to be upheld. The application to women not asking questions may have been a cultural one where this was seen to be an exercising of authority. Nevertheless, we must still consider how this principle applies today. As you read note the various instructions.
1 Corinthians 13-14
1 Corinthians 13-14
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.