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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.

(145) 25 May : Proverbs 14v3 / Numbers 20v1-21v35 / Psalm 35v11-17

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
More grumbling. More grace. It's a reminder of how slow we are to learn to and appreciate God. As the water comes from the rock Moses and Aaron are at fault too. Their error is in the words "must we" (20v10). They should have pointed to God as the giver. And there's suggestion they may not have done because they weren't sure if he would act (v12). This lack of faith is why Aaron and then Moses die without entering the land. What follows is bitty. The priesthood passes to Aaron's son. Nations attack. God looks after Israel. Yet they grumble again, provoking his anger and leading to death by snakes. But with God repentance brings forgiveness. So they confess their fault, and he provides salvation as they look to a snake on a pole - a foreshadowing of how we look to Christ on the cross (Jn 3v14-15). The final section shows the threat the people faced, and why they need not be afraid: God will deliver the people and their land into Israel's hands, just as he will one day cause "the meek" to "inherit the earth" (Matt 5v5). As you read note the signs of God's grace. 

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.