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 wider New Testament tells us that Luke was a doctor and so concerned with facts (Col 4v14). His introduction therefore builds our faith, confident that what he recorded is accurate. Otherwise it would have no persuasive power for Theophilus, its recipient. The first chapter resonates with much we've seen in Genesis. Miracle births (like Sarah's) signalling momentous events, and God fulfilling his promises to Abraham (through king David's line) by finally bringing the offspring who will save and transform his descendents into the great nation they were always to be. The promise of God coming to his people that ended the Old Testament is being fulfilled (compare Mal 4v5-6, Lk 1v17). At the heart, then, is the challenge to believe what God has said about his Christ as his words never fail. Zechariah struggles to (v20), but Mary does (v37-38). What encouragement to us as we await their full fulfilment. As you read note what is being taught about Jesus.
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.