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
The recent convert so often puts to shame the long term Christian. Namaan is one of an enemy army. An insignificant servant girl tells him to go to God's preacher for healing. He does, and after a degree of humbling, acknowledges Israel's God as the only God. Immediately this has reprocussions for his work as he accompanies his king into the temple of an idol. But he rests in God's grace, knowing he isn't compromised in his own heart. There's challenge here about our own evangelism, and faith in God. It certainly contrasts the lack of faith or concern over idolatry in Israel's king and people, and especially the wealth seeking actions of Gehazi. What follows only confirms the reality of the LORD against the god of Aram. Elisha enables Israel's king to know the enemy's movements and reveals (as with Elijah) the horses and chariots of fire around him. It seems to be a visionary way of affirming God's protection. We choose Christ as he alone can defeat sin and Satan, and rescue us from his wrath and all the troubles of our world. And with hin, we find grace and welcome, rather like the Arameans (6v22-23). As you read note how the LORD's supremacy is seen.
2 Kings 5:1-6:23
2 Kings 5:1-6:23
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.