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
What are the marks of true faith? The Thessalonian Christians show us. Paul wrote this letter around 51AD. He had preached in the city for a matter of weeks before having to leave because of persecution. But he is overwhealmed with thankfulness to God on hearing from Timothy how these baby Christians are persevering in their new faith. It is marked by hard work, but above all else by a readiness to endure much suffering, imitating the Lord Jesus. Because this is evidence of having received the gospel in the power of the Spirit, it is also evidence that these Christians are chosen of God. And just as their response was being talked of all over the region, so it is an example to us (1v8-10). Paul is writing to encourage them to continue in this more and more. Anticipating oppenents who might entice the Thessalonians away from Christ, he therefore affirms that his message was from God because he was prepared to preach it despite strong opposition himself, did so with a blamelessness of life, and left only because he had to. This should strengthen our faith in Paul's words too. As you read note the qualities displayed by the Thessalonians and by Paul.
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.