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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.

(44) 13 February : Proverbs 11v5-6 / Luke 3v23-4v44 / Psalm 14v4-7

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
Here Jesus proves himself the Messiah. Israel fell into temptation and disobeyed God's law when in the desert for 40 years. Jesus resists the devil by obeying God's law when in the desert for 40 days. He is achieving where Israel failed - earning a righteous standing for those who would follow him. And in quoting from Isaiah he proclaims himself the long awaited Spirit-anointed king, sent to govern in all wisdom and justice (4v18-19 with Isaiah 61v1-3). As such he shows his authority to cast out evil and rebuke sickness. It should encourage our prayers and strengthen our allegiance to him. But the point is that Jesus is able to deal with the consequences of Adam's sin. That's why the genealogy is so important. Jesus is descended not just from king David and Abraham, but from Adam himself. He is the right ruler of all, and his kingdom is therefore accessible to all. As you read note the things in your life you look forward to being free of because of the authority Jesus displays here.

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.