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
These oracles of judgment against Egypt and Cush declare that that the very nations Israel sort to ally with for help rather than trust the Lord, will be brought low by Assyria at the Lord's doing (20v3-6). It reminds us that all human powers are nothing compared to him. It is from him that we should seek the help we need. But with wrath also comes mercy. In the midst of these oracles of judgment, we read of a day when peoples from those nations will worship the Lord. Cush will bring gifts to the LORD at Mount Zion (17v7). And he will bless Egypt and Assyria, saying, "'Blessed be Egypt my people, Assyria my handiwork, and Israel my inheritance.'" These are astonishing verses. God has always had an eye on bringing his salvation to the entire world, just as he promised Abraham that the earth would be blessed through his descendents. This is why mission must be our priority. As you read note what God promises the nations.
Isaiah 18-20
Isaiah 18-20
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.