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
Ours is not a holy nation called apart by the Lord as Israel was. However, there are similarities between our rejection of Christ in recent history and their rejection of the Lord. Jeremiah's ministry covers the time the southern kingdom of Judah was finally punished for this rejection by being handed over to the Babylonian Empire, which conquered and carried of many of its people in 605 and 597BC, also destroying the city and temple in 586BC. The book begins with God's call of Jeremiah. He is to declare the overthrow and establishment of nations - words that will essential cause these things because they are the certain and effective word of God. And his first oracle warns of northern kingdoms coming against Jerusalem because the people have turned to false gods and so forsaken "the spring of living water" (2v13). But he is also given a warning: The people will stand against him because of his message, but as God's prophet, he will be protected by the Lord. Only time will tell what our own nation and church must face for its forsaking of Christ. But we should pray that ministers of the word would have the steadfastness of Jeremiah to proclaim judgment as well as salvation. As you read note the key points of God's message.
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.