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
Although we are so often faithfulness, praise be that the Lord remains faithful. Hosea writes in the southern kingdom of Judah towards the end of the 7th century BC, when the northern kingdom, titled by then "Israel," was conquered by the Assyrians. Like other prophets, Hosea acts out his message, but in rather an extreme way! He marries a promiscuous woman to illustrate how Israel had been unfaithful to God, by turning to false gods like Baal as alternate "husbands." The LORD declares that unless she (Israel) repents, he will shame her, remove his love and provision, and no longer count her as his people (his wife). But he also promises, that she will realise she was better off with the LORD, and turn back to him and to "David their king." He will then restore these things, and betroth her to himself forever. The fact is that the northern kingdom disappeared under Assyria. So this is a prophecy of how those of northern descent would come to faith in Jesus, David's descendent, together, perhaps, with the faithful in Hosea's day who will also enter his kingdom through resurrection. The lesson for us, is to repent of any idolatry ourselves whilst we can, knowing God is ever-ready to forgive. As you read note what is learnt about the Lord.
Hosea 1-3
Hosea 1-3
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.