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
The wife of nobel character...Proverbs 31:14
The wife of nobel character...Proverbs 31:14
Understanding to grow in
It's a glorious picture of restoration: Jerusalem now faithful, in a flourishing land, where children and the elderly dwell in peace and security. And it is given as a promise to motivate the rebuilding of the temple, and an encouragement to live the godly life. Likewise, grace motivates us. What God has promised to give, moves us to honour him in thankfulness and a sense of priveledge being included in his purposes. The great goal in Zechariah 8, however, is Israel finally fulfilling their calling of being a light to the Gentiles, as ten from the nations ask one Jew out of a desire to know the LORD they know. One cannot but think of how the apostles and first Jewish converts to Christ saw so many Gentiles come to faith through their testimony. As is the case throughout the prophets, chapter 9 reminds us such blessing is only made possible through Christ - God's righteous and humble king. By bringing judgment on the nations he ensures peace for his people, so that they are free to "sparkle" in God's land (9v16). As those who have come to the LORD through him, this is our destiny. As you read note what God promises.
It's a glorious picture of restoration: Jerusalem now faithful, in a flourishing land, where children and the elderly dwell in peace and security. And it is given as a promise to motivate the rebuilding of the temple, and an encouragement to live the godly life. Likewise, grace motivates us. What God has promised to give, moves us to honour him in thankfulness and a sense of priveledge being included in his purposes. The great goal in Zechariah 8, however, is Israel finally fulfilling their calling of being a light to the Gentiles, as ten from the nations ask one Jew out of a desire to know the LORD they know. One cannot but think of how the apostles and first Jewish converts to Christ saw so many Gentiles come to faith through their testimony. As is the case throughout the prophets, chapter 9 reminds us such blessing is only made possible through Christ - God's righteous and humble king. By bringing judgment on the nations he ensures peace for his people, so that they are free to "sparkle" in God's land (9v16). As those who have come to the LORD through him, this is our destiny. As you read note what God promises.
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.