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
Judgment begins with the household of God (1 Pet 4v17). So Zephaniah now turns from the nations to Jerusalem, condemning her rulers and people for failure to fear God. It's all to easy for us to look to the speck in another's, without seeing the plank in our own! God's word then turns to one of encouragement for Jerusalem. What the people failed to do he will do, removing the arrogant, and drawing those from the nations as worshippers to join with the meek and humble from amongst Israel who "trust in the name of the LORD" (3v12). This looks to Gentiles being included with Jews through common faith in Christ, and finds fulfilment in the new Jerusalem of the church that will one day be established upon the earth. Zephaniah urges us to ensure we are part of this group. As you read note what God promises them.
Zephaniah 3
Zephaniah 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.