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 gospel in a nutshell? "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." (4v17). Here we see what that means. Just as God led Israel into the desert where the people gave into temptation, the Spirit leads Jesus. But he resists, relying on the very Old Testament book Israel failed to obey. In other words, he properly obeys the reign of God, displaying what the kingdom should look like in himself. The quote from Isaiah 9 (4v15-16) shows the significance. Isaiah goes on to speak of one born as wonderful counsellor and mighty God, to rule forever in all righteousness. Jesus is that king, ruler of God's kingdom of light. And this means that he is to be followed and obeyed like the disciples; that he is bringing a world free of suffering as shown by the miracles; and that those who display a life of repentance can know joy even if low or persecuted, for "theirs is the kingdom of heaven" (5v1-12). In short, it is now those who come to Jesus that are the true people of God, fulfilling the role originally given to Israel of being a salt-like preservative, and a light that shines in the darkness, drawing people to the Lord. It all urges us to repent and then to shine. As you read note what is required of the disciple.
Matthew 4:1-5:16
Matthew 4:1-5:16
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.