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
It stretches our understanding, but the LORD so governs all that happens that he can use the evil acts of an oppressive empire like Babylon to execute righteous judgment on wicked nations. And then, because that doesn't excuse Babylon's actions, punish Babylon for what they did under his hand. It should encourage us that justice is always done, and that even evil is somehow used by God for good. But the main point here, is that we should learn from Judah and "listen" to God's word rather than persistently ignore it. Indeed, when God spoke over Jesus on the mount of transfiguration, the one thing he said was "listen to him" (Matt 17v5). And by listening to Jesus we don't just hear warning of a final judgment, but a means of forgiveness so that we can survive it. As you read note what God predicts will happen.
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.