Skip to main content

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.

(344) 11 December : Proverbs 19v8 / 2 Kings 11-12 / Psalm 78v34-39

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 spiritual temperature of God's people can fluctuate rapidly. Because God had promised David an everlasting dynasty, Joash is rescued from Ahaziah so that the line continues. And while Joash is instructed by a faithful priest he "does right in the eyes of the Lord," so that the people flourish under him. It's a reminder of the critical importance of gospel ministers in the renewal of God's people and, through them, the culture they live in. The restoration of the temple is critical in this, for if the people are more devoted in their worship of God, they will be more devoted in obeying him in their lives, to the good of their society. It reminds us that church fellowship is now the temple where God resides (Eph 2v19-22). And just as the people in Joash's day gave themselves wholeheartedly to rebuilding their temple, we are to obey king Jesus by building up the church as through the giving of money and service to evangelism and discipleship. As you read note the attitude of the people.
2 Kings 11-12

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.