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
How far are you prepared to go for Jesus' sake? What are you prepared to lose? The example of Daniel's friends must have been a great challenge to others exiled in Babylon. They refused to worship the Babylonian gods, nor Nebuchadnezzar as if a god. And when given a second chance on threat of death by fire, they stuck to their guns - honouring God by testifying that they trusted and served him whether he chose to rescue them or not. The equivalent today might be the Christian who respectfully explains why their faith in Christ means they can't be involved in interfaith worship, in bowing down with assent to the state's view of sexuality and gender, or any other practice that does not align with God's will. And the result for the three Jews should encourage us. Not only did this bring Nebuchadnezzar once more to acknowledge God, but the men were miraculously protected, just as we might be in God governing the response to our stand in a way that protects us. Most significantly perhaps, in the fire the Lord was personally with them in a human-like form. One cannot but think of how Stephen saw Jesus standing in heaven, as he faced his own martydom. Jesus calls all who would be his disciples to be ready to "take up their cross" and "lose their lives" for his sake (Mk 8v34-35). But he also promises that whatever that might entail, he is with them "even to the end of the age" (Matt 28v20). As you read note the qualities of Daniel's friends.
Daniel 3
Daniel 3
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.