Skip to main content

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.

(74) 15 March : Proverbs 12v1 / Exodus 15v22-17v16 / Psalm 19v12-14

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
How ready we are to grumble, and even when we have experienced God provide. After witnessing the wonders of their Exodus Israel grumble over poisoned water. God "tests" them to see if they will obey - promising protection against ill health if they do. Yet having experienced him purify the water, they only grumble again, over lack of food. We should pause to feel the immensity of God's subsequent provision. None could imagine how a million or so could be fed. Yet they not only receive bread appear on the ground but meat fall from the sky! The terms of their collecting it would test their obedience and faith. Yet even after all this there was more grumbling. This now tested God - testing his patience and grace. But again he provided, with water from a dry and impenetrable rock. As if to stress the point, we then see him protecting Israel in battle through Moses. The point is that the Lord is well able to look after his people. Jesus made the same point, urging us not to worry (Matt 6v25-24). Indeed, Paul notes that Christ was present in providing the water from the rock for Israel. As you read note the various response we should have to God's ability to provide for us.
Exodus 15:22-17:16

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.