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
We need to think carefully as we read Jesus' instructions to particular disciples. We cannot just assume what he requires of them he requires of us - nor that we are somehow lacking if we don't see the same results. Neverthless there are principles in their ministry that challenge our own evangelism, and in the responses that challenge how we respond to the gospel and its preachers. But behind all this stands Jesus. He is the one we should give time to listen to, and the one who must reveal his truth so that we can understand it. He is the one casting out evil in order to establish his kingdom in the heart of those who don't just hear, but obey. And he is the one who gives his Holy Spirit so that they can. As you read note what that obedient life should look like.
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.