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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.

(108) 18 April : Proverbs 12v26 / Leviticus 26-27 / Psalm 27v7-10

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, yor family, your church and the world.

Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
Leviticus ends with a reminder of its purpose: It contains God's instructions at Sinai for how Israel should live in covenant with her holy God (26v46). Honouring and obeying him will bring the blessings of a fruitful land, security from enemies and increased numbers. But failing to will mean these things are lost. Yet mercy is present. The punishments will intensify only if Israel refuses to turn from her sin (26v18, 21, 23, 27). And repentance will bring restoration because of God's promises to the Patriachs. These things echo the blessings of creation and the curse of the fall (26v12), and keep us sober as many churches and Christians today persist in refusing to “listen to” God’s commands. Christ’s own words warn that unfaithful churches will be destroyed and false believers judged (Rev 2v5, Mat 7v23). The final chapter focuses voluntary devotion to the LORD. To be “dedicated” to the LORD was to be put at the disposal of the priests and sanctuary (as with Samuel, 1 Sam 1-2), and so be “holy.” However, it seems people could be dedicated but then an equivalent price be paid at the time instead (27v2) - that probably reflected the usefulness of the work done. The detail urges caution about making vows to God. Consider Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5v1-11). As you read note how the the blessings and curses outlined foreshadow those of eternity.
Leviticus 26-27

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.