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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.

(401) 6 February : Proverbs 20v22 / Matthew 9:35-10:42 / Psalm 88v14-18

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
Jesus commissions his disciples to extend his work. The instructions should not be read as an exact prescription for all Christians. The twelve had a particular authority as Jesus' foundational spokesmen, and here were limited to ministry in Israel to ensure Abraham's descendents were given a chance to respond before the gospel would go to the Gentiles. But there are principles to consider: The requirement to pray for the Lord to raise up workers. A readiness to go, and to trust the Lord for provision if necessary. A realism about the hostility that would have to be faced. In short, the disciple must be ready to loose their life for Jesus' sake, being unshamed of the gospel, and welcoming those who preach it on the understanding that this is to welcome Christ and God. As you read note what challenges.
Matthew 9:35-10:42

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.