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
God neglects none of his people. Here he clarifies the responsibilities of the priests (descended from Aaron) and Levites (the wider tribe). They will not receive a portion of the land like the rest of Israel, and so the LORD ensures they take a share of the people's offerings - just as ministers of the gospel are to receive provision from the giving of Christians. Believers are now titled God's royal priesthood (1 Pet 2v9). And we can be sure he will grant us our share in the inheritance to come. The note on receiving firstborn humans or animals offered to the LORD (18v15) refers to those that might be dedicated to the LORD's service as Samuel was (1 Sam 1v22). The instructions on the water of cleansing remind us again that absolutely nothing deemed unacceptable or unfitting can be in the vicinity of God, unless of course, they are now cleansed by Christ. As you read note what the priests and Levites received.
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.