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
With wrath comes mercy. So, as with Moab, these prophecies against various nations, promise a degree of restoration too: God will "restore the fortunes" of the Ammonites and Elam (49v6, 39). Although given to address specific circumstances in Jeremiah's day, what these oracles also give us, not least because they come amongst so many others, is an awareness that every nation is accountable to God for its sins. None are not seen. None are forgotten. And although the Lord is supremely patient, judgment will inevitably come. And no human ingenuity or confidence can stop it. It is sobering. Likewise, although Jesus taught that now is the day of salvation, he stressed that judgment will eventually come (Matt 25v31-46). As you read note its inevitability for these nations.
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.