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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.

(127) 7 May : Proverbs 13v13-14 / Acts 21v27-23v11 / Psalm 31v16-20

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
Paul is now in Jerusalem, and the prophecies given about him are fulfilled (20v23, 21v11-14). We should consider his courage - choosing at the risk of his own life to address those baying for his blood. We should also consider his testimony. Paul's conversion is one of the great foundation stones of Christian faith. Nothing can explain such a change from persecutor to preacher, but that he did indeed see and hear from the risen Christ. As this passage shows, Paul had absolutely nothing to gain from becoming a Christian, but for potential death. However, no matter how compelling the evidence for faith, those whose hearts are hard will not be moved. Paul's hearers therefore seek his death. As you read note what we learn here about Christ.
Acts 21:27-23:11

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.