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.
Understanding to grow in
Jesus' miracles do reveal his compassion. His is moved to see the people like sheep without a shepherd - wanding without the leaders they need. And so he teaches them and feeds them. But the bigger revelation intended by his miracles, is his identity. It was the LORD who miraculously fed Israel with bread and quail in the desert. And here Jesus' feeding with bread and fish is so abundant and generous that there are twelve baskets left over. The point is that the life Jesus offers, is more than enough for the twelve tribes of Israel. But there is more. As he walks on water we are reminded of Job 9v8 that tells us that our maker alone "treads on the waves of the sea." This is why people's rejection of Jesus earlier in the chapter is so serious. For he has proved himself. Yet even the disciples don't yet get it, as "their hearts were hardened" (6v52). It's a hint that because we so love sin and want to live our way, none of us will accept who Jesus really is, whatever the evidence - unless the Lord enables us to. This should make us truly thankful for the faith we do have; and prayerful that God would open the hearts of others. As you read note what Jesus reveals about himself.
Mark 6:30-56
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
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.