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
Moses prepares the people for his departure. Israel are to be “strong and courageous” not because of confidence in themselves, but because of God's presence. Likewise, Christ’s promise to be with his people even to the end of the age emboldens us (Matt 28v20). Moses charges Joshua in the same way. In the light of the people’s prior grumbling, this was necessary so that they recognise Joshua as God’s chosen leader. We then learn how the essence of Deuteronomy (and possibly Numbers) came into being. Moses writes the law down and commands that it be read every seven years when Israel's religious life was sort of rebooted at the feast of tabernacles. Even the children were to “hear it” and so “learn to fear the LORD” – a rebuke of those who argue things must always be brief and simple in church for children! Joshua is then commissioned, and God relates once more how Israel will forsake him for idols, bringing many “difficulties and disasters.” He therefore instructs Moses to write down and teach Israel a song to “testify” against her when she goes astray. This forms an early justification for music ministry. We treasure it not just for praising God, but being reminded of his deeds and our response to them. As you read note how the people are encouraged and challenged.
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.