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 31:19
The wife of nobel character...Proverbs 31:19
Understanding to grow in
These letters come to angels as representatives of churches (some think they symbolise key leaders). The number "7" represents completion, so the 7 churches probably represent churches throughout the world and in every age. Each letter contains a statement picking up an aspect of John's vision of Jesus in chapter 1, a commendation and/or rebuke, action to be taken, and an encouragement to those who perseve in faith until the end. A key point is that Jesus' presence amongst his churches means that he sees and knows all that we do - what we suffer for his sake, and how we sin. The letters therefore urge Christians today to repent of whatever is wrong in their church life, continue in what is right, and do so with great anticipation of the wonders to be enjoyed in eternal life. As you read note Christ's will for his church and the future he promises those who persevere.
These letters come to angels as representatives of churches (some think they symbolise key leaders). The number "7" represents completion, so the 7 churches probably represent churches throughout the world and in every age. Each letter contains a statement picking up an aspect of John's vision of Jesus in chapter 1, a commendation and/or rebuke, action to be taken, and an encouragement to those who perseve in faith until the end. A key point is that Jesus' presence amongst his churches means that he sees and knows all that we do - what we suffer for his sake, and how we sin. The letters therefore urge Christians today to repent of whatever is wrong in their church life, continue in what is right, and do so with great anticipation of the wonders to be enjoyed in eternal life. As you read note Christ's will for his church and the future he promises those who persevere.
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.