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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.

(38) 7 February : Proverbs 11v1 / Genesis 48v1-49v28 / Psalm 12v1-4

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
Under God's inspiration Jacob's actions and words towards his sons predict the future history of the tribes descended from them. So rather than become a tribe of Joseph, Jospeh's descdents will become the two tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh - Ephraim being the most dominant. And whereas the future for Reuben, Simeon and Levi is limited because of their particular sins (49v3-7, see 34v25-26, 35v22), Judah becomes the head tribe because of how he eventually proved so faithful (49v8-12). It is here we find the third great prediction of the promised serpent-crusher. With increasing focus we've seen he will be one of humanity descended from Eve. One of the nation of Israel descended from Abraham. Now, we see he will be one of the tribe of Judah within Israel, who will receive the obedience of the nations. As your read note what is to be expected by this rising nation.

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.