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
Understanding to grow in
The distinctiveness and very existence of Jacob's family come under threat here. Yet God again protects them (35v1, 5) and reiterates his promise (35v11-13). Strikingly, the mother of the nation of Israel is buried at the very place it's Messiah would be born (35v19). And it is he who urges both shrewdness and innocence in our interactions with the world (Matt 10v16) - both of which are lacking in chapter 34. As you read note how Jacob starts to lead his family in the ways of the LORD.
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.