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
Whilst there's time there's hope. Israel's sins here are extremely severe. Ignorant leaders, immorality, pagan child sacrifice, and with it, fasting to the Lord whilst shoing no concern for the justice or the poor. It sounds extreme. But within the church even today, there are leaders who go through their rituals, but know little of the Bible, practice sexual immorality and advocate abortion (a controversial subject, but one that has parallels in taking a child's life in order to benefit oneself). Within the wider culture of course, these things are even more pervasive. But the point Isaiah makes is that there is still time. God is slow to anger. And so he continues to call to repentance. And promises peace and joy to those who do. Living after Christ, we know how that peace and joy is received. How much more then should we ensure we have repented and urge others to do so too. As you read consider modern parallels to the sins of God's people.
Isaiah 56:9-58:14
Isaiah 56:9-58:14
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.