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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.

(414) 19 February : Proverbs 21v1 / Matthew 20v17-21v22 / Psalm 90v3-6

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
To follow the way of the cross is to follow the way of service. So the disciples are not to Lord it over others, but serve on the pattern of Jesus, who has compassion on the needy and rides into Jerusalem as its king, knowing it will mean his death. His entrance to the city is filled with Old Testament significance. As was predicted, God has come as king to his people. Yet, whereas that means joy for some, for others it is very serious indeed. So Jesus immediately drives out those who are dishonouring the temple, and he curses a fig tree as a picture of the coming judgment on the nation because it hasn't born the fruit of righteousness God was coming to look for. His statement about telling "this" mountain to throw itself into the sea is a comment on Mount Zion on which Jerusalem is built. Jesus is stating that he has authority to bring judgement on it for its sins. As you read note what is learnt about Jesus.
Matthew 20:17-21:22

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.