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
As always the key is faith: Will we trust in ourselves and so turn from the LORD or trust and so obey him (17v5-8). It is in this sense that Jeremiah can say the LORD rewards people according to what their deeds deserve (17v10). It's not about whether their deeds merit his forgiveness and acceptance, but whether they display a heart that trusts him. To those who do, in the midst of these declarations of judgment there is much hope. They will be blessed and flourish like a well watered tree (as Psalm 1 too). It is on this basis that Jeremiah can call on the LORD for salvation and help, and the LORD can promise a thriving city if the people will only keep his Sabbaths. The problem, however, is that the heart is beyond cure (17v9). Such obedient faith comes only by the Holy Spirit's work of inner renewal - a renewal experienced in fullness only when Christ ascends to heaven (Jn 7v37-39). We should thank him for it, and for the forgiveness the faith it creates receives. As you read note what is promised those of faith.
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.