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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.

(402) 7 February : Proverbs 20v23 / Matthew 11 / Psalm 89v1-4

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
Given what we've learnt, nothing matters more than our response to Jesus. His answer to John's question reveals that he is the promised and long awaited Messiah, who is at the same time God come to his people (v4-5 with 35v3-10, v14 with Mal 4v5). It's a daunting truth, for God comes to judge as well as to save. Jesus therefore declares the particular seriousness of rejecting him when having seen the miracles he had performed. The point is that the more knowledge of Jesus, the more stubborn the rejection, and so the more severe punishment on the day of judgment. But there is salvation too, that means "rest" for one's soul. However, this is on God's initiative, as he reveals the truth of who Jesus is to the humble whilst hiding it from the proud. There is mystery here. But the take home is clear. We must respond to Jesus' call and ensure that we have truly come to him. As you read note the warnings.
Matthew 11

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.