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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.

(387) 23 January : Proverbs 20v12 / Nahum / Psalm 85v10-13

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
When nations or peoples continue to act in a brutal manner, it does not mean that God is unconcerned, nor that he will not act. Nahum's prophecy is of judgment and destruction for the violent and oppressive Assyrian Empire - an end that came at the hand of the Babylonians in 612BC, over a hundred years after the Assyrians destroyed the northern kingdom of Israel. The LORD is "slow to anger" but he ensures justice is eventually done. And when we see nations or peoples acting brutally today, we should take comfort in that. In his perfect and wise timing, God will bring them down in history, and will judge each individual on the last day. There is comfort too, for those suffering under their hands. "The LORD is good, a refuge" for those who trust in him (1v7). He keeps the faithful in Christ so that in resurrection they will be saved from all oppression. Moreover, when he brings down oppressors within history, he is acting for all who have cried out to him. But we should remember the extent of his mercy too. As you read note what Assyria would have to face.
Nahum

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.