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
Those with more knowledge are more accountable. And so Belshazzar is not given the lesson Nebuchadnezzar had, to bring him to acknowledge the LORD. He was aware of what happened to his father, yet still ignored Israel's God. The kingdom is therefore taken from him as Babylon is defeated by Medo-Persia in 539BC. And once again, Daniel acts with integrity, not allowing himself to be drawn into acting for the sake of wealth and prestige, but only for the Lord. However, the officials of the new king Darius are jealous of Daniel, and so they trick Darius to decree that any who do not pray to him are to be thrown to the lions. Daniel's sets an example to all in refusing to submit, for that would be to dishonour God. Instead he continues to pray to him three times a day and in full view, trusting the LORD for the outcome. Once again, the resolution isn't an easy one. It must have tested Daniel's faith. But he stood firm. And the result not only brought justice on Daniel's oppressors, but brought Darius to acknowledge the sovereignty and salvation of God to all his subjects. The lesson to the orginal readers and to us, is to obey God, taking every opportunity to testify to him, knowing that he will eventually bring justice on those who may persecute us, whilst bringing others to faith. As you read note how the LORD is honoured.
Daniel 5-6
Daniel 5-6
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.