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TAKE UP THE CHALLENGE

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.

(724) 26 December : Proverbs 31v25 / Revelation 15-16 / Psalm 148v7-14

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 31:25

Understanding to grow in
Some see these seven bowls as describing what was seen in the seven trumpets, but with differing emphases. However, with them we are told God's wrath "is completed" (15v1). So, to my mind, they describe an intensification of what took place with the seven trumpets, as final judgments that will come just before the seventh is blown and Christ returns. Those who have withstood Satan throughout history are pictured worshipping God for his awesome acts of judgment. They are safe in heaven, witnessing God's anger being poured out on those on earth who worship the dragon. Yet still these refuse to repent (16v9-11). Towards the end of this period we then learn that demonic spirits will move rulers from the whole world to rise up against the church that is at that point on the earth (as in 20v7-9). This persecution is ended with judgment from heaven, by which the earth seems to unravel as Babylon and the cities of the nations through which it rules are destroyed. The reference to the one coming like a "thief" shows this is the moment of Christ's return. As you read note how this would have encouraged Christians facing hostility.

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.