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
These chapters are notoriously difficult to understand, and we should note they come as the book becomes increasingly figurative in nearing its end. Ezekiel is to set his face against a king called “Gog” of “Magog” (literally, land of Gog), who also rules over Meshech and Tubal. Most likely these three lands refer to places far north of Judah, that were known for their barbarity (see Ps 120v5-7). God declares he is against them but will still use them by bringing Gog and his army against Judah (38v1-9) so that he can then defeat them in a spectacular way and so show that he is "the LORD," and prove that the people were exiled not because of any weakness in him, but because of their sin. Following this, the land will be cleansed, the people will forget their unfaithfulness, and they will thrive by the power of God's Spirit. Revelation 20v8-9 implies this is fulfilled as the nations of the earth are gathered against God’s people (Jews and Gentiles who have believed in Christ) by Satan, just before the final judgement. But it reassures us too, that God is mightier than all hostile powers, and although his people are spiritually safe now, from that point his people will be physically safe too - forevermore. As you read note how God's control and power is evidenced. Ezekiel 38-39
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.