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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.

(179) 28 June : Proverbs 14v30 / Deuteronomy 31v30-32v47 / Psalm 41v1-6

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
This song brings home Israel’s history and future. Heaven and earth are first called to witness, with a prayer that God’s word would bring abundant life to Israel. God’s faithfulness is affirmed, making Israel’s corruption all the more serious. His care as Father and Creator in making and forming her (Jacob) is then outlined. The language reflects his purpose, protection and provision. And the past tense marks how certain the future is: Israel will reject and “forget” him for gods they hadn’t even known. In loving jealousy God will then reject them, bringing the promised disasters. But Israel will not understand this is all from God. He therefore calls them to “see” there is no God but him. And this will be proved by him bringing the nations to actually praise him for judging those he brought against Israel, and by his making “atonement” for the land and people. This great concern for Israel is of course fulfilled when, through faith in Christ, Jews and Gentiles join in “seeing” who God is, praising him and receiving atonement. Moses concludes affirming to Israel that the words of the song “are your life.” If they heed them, they will “live long in the land.” If we live by the gospel truth we sing, we will live forever. As you read note what is taught about God.

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.