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
Proverbs 29:22
Proverbs 29:22
Understanding to grow in
What are we here for? It's a profound question that Peter answers for Christians. We have the unfathomable dignity of being spiritual stones in the temple that is the church, in which God is present in this world. So we are to be a holy and royal priesthood: First, in offering our lives to God in obedience. Second, in declaring God's excellence to the world. And the two are related. For as "pagans" see our good deeds they come to listen to our message, and so "glorify God on the day he visits." This is a reason why we should submit to authorities and respect everyone. And if this means suffering, we are to remember that this is to follow the example of Jesus who died so that we might live in such a godly way. But we're reminded, too, that this is not easy. Unbelievers reject Christ as cornerstone and so will reject us. And our sinful desires war against us too. As you read note the elements of Christian living.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.