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's a daunting thing to be called to speak God's word. Ezekiel must only speak when given a word to say. But if he fails to warn when it is a word of warning, he will be held accountable for the blood of those who are judged because they did not hear the call to repentance! The apostle Paul makes a similar point when saying he is "innocent" of the blood of those he has preached to, but who have ignored his message (Acts 18v6, 20v26). Whether preachers, homegroup, youth or Sunday school teachers - all who formally teach God's word should tremble at this truth. But a readiness to suffer to speak God's word is also seen here. Ezekiel is instructed to lie on his side for over a year and eat food coooked over excrement in order to visualise his message of impending destruction on Jerusalem (that came in 586BC). And we grumble when teaching the word requires of us a late night or lost leisure! As you read consider the seriousness of teaching the word of God.
Ezekiel 3:16-5:17
Ezekiel 3:16-5:17
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.