March 18 - What's in It for Me?

Overview of: Job

Today's Reading:
Job 1:1 – 2:10
"Job's Faith Is Tested"

Focus Verses: Job 1:9-11
9 "Does Job fear God for nothing?" Satan replied. 10 "Have you not put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has? You have blessed the work of his hands, so that his flocks and herds are spread throughout the land. 11 But stretch out your hand and strike everything he has, and he will surely curse you to your face."

Insight:
The writer of Job sets the scene of Job's story with Satan making an accusation against God. He says, "The only reason people serve and worship you, God, is because you bribe them with blessing and comfort."

Response and Action:
Why do I honor and praise God? Is it because he is God--my maker, the giver of life, and only wise almighty sovereign? Or is it because I am looking to him for health, success, prosperity, and comfort? Does God have to buy my praise? Would I honor him and acknowledge him if there was no obvious benefit in it for me?

The Scriptures, my life experience, and the testimony of others show me that God does, indeed, bless those who trust in him. They also teach me, however, that a person who truly trusts God will give him honor and praise even in times of suffering. God is God regardless of my circumstances. The truest praise and deepest reverence I can offer God is the worship, faith, and loyalty I give him when there is no apparent benefit for myself.

O God, you give and take away. Blessed be your name in times of plenty. Blessed be your name in times of need. My lips will praise you in times of prosperity, and in times of trial and loss. I want to exalt you whether by life, or by death. Teach me the secret of being content in any and every situation. I pray this through Christ Jesus, my Lord, who in faith looked past his trials and hardship to the eternal joy set before him, and endured the cross, scorning its shame. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 18:14
"A man's spirit sustains him in sickness, but a crushed spirit who can bear?"

New Testament for Today: 1 Peter 4:19
19 So then, those who suffer according to God's will should commit themselves to their faithful Creator and continue to do good.
In Context: 1 Peter 4:1-19

Recommended Reading:
Waiting: Finding Hope When God Seems Silent
by Ben Patterson

March 17 - When Faith Seems Futile

Overview of: Malachi

Today's Reading:
Malachi 2:17 – 3:18
"Judgment will Come"

Focus Verses: Malachi 3:14-17
14 "You have said, 'It is futile to serve God. What did we gain by carrying out his requirements and going about like mourners before the LORD Almighty? 15 But now we call the arrogant blessed. Certainly the evildoers prosper, and even those who challenge God escape.' " 16 Then those who feared the LORD talked with each other, and the LORD listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the LORD and honored his name. 17 "They will be mine," says the LORD Almighty, "in the day when I make up my treasured possession. I will spare them, just as in compassion a man spares his son who serves him.

Insight:
Even though many had returned to Jerusalem, and the Temple been rebuilt, and the city walls repaired, life for the exiles was still far from the glorious restoration spoken about by the pre-exilic prophets. Jerusalem was nothing more a small and struggling enclave in the remote regions of the Persian empire. It was tough situation and many people lost sight of God. Evil and arrogant people who boldly challenged the truth of God prospered and succeeded. Faithfulness to God seemed futile, but Malachi proclaimed that God would one day set things right. Those who were faithful would, in the end, be God's treasured possession.

Response and Action:
Some days it's easy to be overwhelmed with life's struggles and injustices. Faith in God can seem futile when those without faith--or worse yet, those who mock it--seem to rule the day. It's understandable to ask, "What good is my faith and righteousness?" But God promises he will one day set things right. He promises that those who remain faithful through thick and thin will eventually experience his compassion and know they are his treasured possession.

O God, help me to press on to take hold of all you have promised. Give me a faith that perseveres through trial. Give me eyes to see hope for tomorrow beyond the trials of today. Give me peace that passes understanding, and remind me that I am yours, that you love and value me. Help me to see the futility of life without you. When following you seems costly, remind me that not following you costs even more. Amen, even so, come quickly Lord!

Proverb for Today: Prov. 16:5
"The LORD detests all the proud of heart. Be sure of this: They will not go unpunished."

New Testament for Today: Revelation 22:12-13
12 "Behold, I am coming soon! My reward is with me, and I will give to everyone according to what he has done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the First and the Last, the Beginning and the End.
In Context: Revelation 22

Recommended Reading:
Evil And the Justice of God
by N. T. Wright

Reading Schedule for March 17 - 22

Mar. 17 - Malachi 2:17 – 3:18
Mar. 18 - Job 1:1 – 2:10
Mar. 19 - Job 30:11-31; 38:1-41
Mar. 20 - Job 42:1-17
Mar. 21 - Isaiah 40:1-31
Mar. 22 - Isaiah 52:1-15


You're invited to read through the Bible with Dave Burkum. Six readings each week will take you through key scripture passages from Genesis through Revelation. Click here to download your copy of the Useful Breath Reading Schedule for 2007-08.

March 15 - Trials Turned to Triumph

Overview of: Esther

Today's Reading:
Esther 7:1 – 8:17
"Threats Turned to Blessing"

Focus Verses: Esther 8:15-16
15 Mordecai left the king's presence wearing royal garments of blue and white, a large crown of gold and a purple robe of fine linen. And the city of Susa held a joyous celebration. 16 For the Jews it was a time of happiness and joy, gladness and honor.

Insight:
Mordecai and Esther were faithful to God and bold enough to take a stand for their people. Their trust in God proved to be well placed, as Haman's plot to destroy the Jews was turned back against him. Instead of destruction, the Jews experienced blessing.

Response and Action:
I will strive to be faithful to God and faithful to his people. I trust that God will bring me through any hardships or threats. I will be open and bold in my commitment to Christ, believing that his promise to protect and bless is greater than any threat or danger I face.

O God, give me the courage and faith to persevere in the face of adversity. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, strengthen me, guide me, and transform me, that I might stand firm in times of trouble. Give me the trust and confidence to look forward to the day when burdens will give way to blessing. I pray in the name of Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God now and forever. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 15:3
"The eyes of the LORD are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good."

New Testament for Today: James 5:10-11
10 Brothers, as an example of patience in the face of suffering, take the prophets who spoke in the name of the Lord. 11 As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job's perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
In Context: James 5

Recommended Reading:
Serious Times: Making Your Life Matter in an Urgent Day
by James Emery White

March 14 - My Life and Times

Overview of: Esther

Today's Reading:
Esther 3:1 – 4:17
"Haman's Plot against the Jews"

Focus Verses: Esther 4:12
12 When Esther's words were reported to Mordecai, 13 he sent back this answer: "Do not think that because you are in the king's house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"

Insight:
When Esther was swept up in the Persian court officials’ search for a new queen, Mordecai must have been mortified. Why would God allow a young daughter of Abraham to be drawn into circumstances so abhorrent to devout Jews? But later, when Haman's plan to destroy and oppress the Jews became known, Mordecai could see a good reason for God to allow Esther's situation. "Your opportunity to speak up for the Jews might just be the very reason you have come to your royal position," he told her.

Response and Action:
It's good for me to consider the ways God may be at work in the details of my daily life. My whole perception of my circumstances is changed by asking, "How could God use this to accomplish his good purpose?"

Which of the conversations, opportunities, relationships, responsibilities, or problems of my today will be used by God for some greater purpose tomorrow? I don’t know, and because I don’t, I will commit every detail of my life to God, always remembering that small details in God's hand have big possibilities.

O God, help me to delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. Open my eyes to your presence and work in my life. Give me the faith to see how you can use my words, my relationships, and my struggles. Open my mind to the possibilities and reasons you have for me at my workplace, in my home, around my neighborhood, in my family, and in my church. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 14:8
"The wisdom of the prudent is to give thought to their ways, but the folly of fools is deception."

New Testament for Today: Philippians 1:12-14
12 Now I want you to know, brothers, that what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. 13 As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ. 14 Because of my chains, most of the brothers in the Lord have been encouraged to speak the word of God more courageously and fearlessly.
In Context: Phil. 1:12-30

Recommended Reading:
Serious Times: Making Your Life Matter in an Urgent Day
by James Emery White

March 13 - Threads in God's Hand

Overview of: Esther

Today's Reading:
Esther 2:1-23
"Esther Chosen as Queen"

Focus Verses: Esther 2:10,17,21b-22
10 Esther had not revealed her nationality and family background, because Mordecai had forbidden her to do so. 17 Now the king was attracted to Esther more than to any of the other women, and she won his favor and approval more than any of the other virgins. So he set a royal crown on her head and made her queen instead of Vashti. 21b ...Two of the king's officers who guarded the doorway, became angry and conspired to assassinate King Xerxes. 22 But Mordecai found out about the plot and told Queen Esther, who in turn reported it to the king, giving credit to Mordecai.

Insight:
Out of all the young girls rounded up by Xerxes' court officials, a young Jewish girl, born during the exile, is chosen to be the new queen. Her adopted father (an older cousin), who is keeping an eye on the situation, just happens to be in the right place at the right time to overhear a plot to kill the King. Both of these life events seem pretty amazing in and of themselves, but as the story of Esther unfolds, we will see that these are just two threads in a much bigger tapestry God is weaving.

Response and Action:
I will live one day at a time trusting that God is at work for my future and for his good purposes. It's hard to know how the events of today will be woven into my future. Some things that seem important to me today may end up forgotten. Some things may be the just beginning of some bigger part of my unfolding story. Will someone I meet today become play an important role in my future? Will something I hear today turn out to be a crucial to me in years to come? Who knows? God knows. I will live for God today--seeking his will, living by his word, putting him first, giving Him honor--because I trust my future is in his hands.

O God, search me and know my heart. Try me and know my anxious thoughts. Help me to see and turn away from any hurtful or sinful way. I trust you with all my tomorrows. My future hope is in you. I will follow Jesus, trusting that you can use every step I take today to bring me safely into the bright tomorrow you have for those who love you. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 13:15
"Good understanding wins favor, but the way of the unfaithful is hard."

New Testament for Today: 1 Corinthians 2:7-9
7 No, we speak of God's secret wisdom, a wisdom that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. 8 None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory. 9 However, as it is written: "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him"...
In Context: 1 Corinthians 2:6-16

Recommended Reading:
Esther: Character Under Pressure
by Patty Pell

March 12 - Behind the Scenes

Overview of: Esther

Today's Reading:
Esther 1:1-22
"Queen Vashti is Deposed"

Focus Verses: Esther 1:12
12 But when the attendants delivered the king's command, Queen Vashti refused to come. Then the king became furious and burned with anger.

Insight:
The story of Esther is colorful and entertaining. The writer seems to be primarily interested in explaining the Jewish custom of Purim, which grew out of the Persian exile experience. While God is never explicitly mentioned in the book, God's hand of providence and intervention is clearly implied in all the events and details of the story. As the details unfold, it becomes clear that God has been at work behind the scenes all along.

Response and Action:
Though the treatment Queen Vashti suffers at the hands of King Xerxes and his court is less than honorable, God is able to use it as an opportunity to work for the benefit of the Jewish people who were scattered and exiled. I must remember that God is at work in the details of my life. He is able to use even wrongheaded circumstances and turn them toward good results.

O God, you are not unaware of the details of my life. You know my coming and my going. Before a word is on my tongue, you know it. The twists and turns of my life are no mystery to you. You are able to lead me, and bring me safely through every trial and loss. Help me to trust you as I remember your ways are higher than mine, and your thoughts beyond comprehension. I know you can work all things together for good. I pray all this in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 12:3
"A man cannot be established through wickedness, but the righteous cannot be uprooted."

New Testament for Today: Romans 8:28
28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.
In Context: Romans 8:28-39

Recommended Reading:
Esther: Character Under Pressure
by Patty Pell

March 11 - Building by the Book

Overview of: Nehemiah

Today's Reading:
Neh. 7:73 – 8:18
"Ezra Reads the Law"

Focus Verses: Nehemiah 8:5-6
5 Ezra opened the book. All the people could see him because he was standing above them; and as he opened it, the people all stood up. 6 Ezra praised the LORD, the great God; and all the people lifted their hands and responded, "Amen! Amen!" Then they bowed down and worshiped the LORD with their faces to the ground.

Insight:
Reading and understanding the Scriptures was central to the rebuilding of Israel. The remnant of Jews who had returned from exile needed to understand the word of the Lord if they were to reestablish their worship, life, and traditions. For days, the people listened to Ezra reading the book of the Law. Teachers helped to translate and explain what Ezra was reading. The people wept because they were so moved and convicted by what they heard.

Response and Action:
Reading and understanding God's word is central to my life. If I am to build a life that is strong and true, I must build on the firm foundation of God's word. Just as the Ezra and the people of Israel gave special effort and time to give attention to Scripture, I will set aside time and make a special effort to attend to Bible reading. Just as those who heard the Scriptures were moved to tears, I will be soft-hearted toward God's word. Just as those who had trouble understanding what they were hearing, I will seek out help and instruction to gain understanding.

O God, thank you for the Bible. Thank you for the testimony and guidance of Scripture. Help me to understand and apply the truth of your Word in my daily life. Give me the wisdom and the will to make time for reading and meditating upon your Word. By the breath of your Holy Spirit, make your word living and active in my heart. Use it to teach me, rebuke me, correct me, and train me in righteousness, that I might be thoroughly equipped for every good work. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 11:30
" The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and he who wins souls is wise."

New Testament for Today: Matthew 7:24
24"Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.
In Context: Matt. 7:13-29

Recommended Reading:
The IVP Introduction to the Bible
by Philip S. Johnston

March 10 - What Can I Do?

Overview of: Nehemiah

Today's Reading:
Neh. 1:1-11; 2:1-20
"Nehemiah and the Wall"

Focus Verses: Nehemiah 2:17-18
17 Then I said to them, "You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace." 18 I also told them about the gracious hand of my God upon me and what the king had said to me. They replied, "Let us start rebuilding." So they began this good work.

Insight:
Though Nehemiah was cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, his heart and prayers were with the remnant of Israel that had returned to Jerusalem from their exile in Persia. Upon hearing news that the rebuilding of the temple and the city were being hindered because of the disrepair of the city walls and gates, he prayed and fasted and took up the challenge to do something about it.

God provided the materials, time, and security Nehemiah needed to take on the task. Nehemiah's ability to plan, pray, and push served the cause well. Under his leadership, the wall, which had been in ruins ever since the exiles had returned, would soon be completed.

Response and Action:
I want to have a heart for God's people and the cause of Christ. As Nehemiah was concerned for the advancement and restoration of Jerusalem, I want to be seriously engaged in the mission, the stability, and the body life of my church. I will fast and pray for the advancement of God's kingdom in our community. I will contribute my skills and efforts to help my church family become stronger, deeper, and more effective. My faith in God compels me to have a passion for the greater Christian community and the cause of Christ.

O God, thank you for your Church. Thank you for the community of Christ-followers in my city. Help me, as a member of that community, to do my part to strengthen and advance the ministry and mission of Jesus. Bless and provide for all those who are committing their lives and their efforts to proclaim the Good News. Uphold and guide all those who are serving and blessing the world in the spirit and way of Jesus. It's in his name that I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 10:17
"He who heeds discipline shows the way to life, but whoever ignores correction leads others astray."

New Testament for Today: Ephesians 4:15-16
15 Instead, speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow up into him who is the Head, that is, Christ. 16 From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
In Context: Eph. 4:1-32

Recommended Reading:
Kingdom Come: How Jesus Wants to Change the World
by Allen M. Wakabayashi

Reading Schedule for March 10 - 15

Mar. 10 - Neh. 1:1-11; 2:1-20
Mar. 11 - Neh. 7:73 – 8:18
Mar. 12 - Esther 1:1-22
Mar. 13 - Esther 2:1-23
Mar. 14 - Esther 3:1 – 4:17
Mar. 15 - Esther 7:1 – 8:17


You're invited to read through the Bible with Dave Burkum. Six readings each week will take you through key scripture passages from Genesis through Revelation. Click here to download your copy of the Useful Breath Reading Schedule for 2007-08.

March 8 - Truth and Testimony

Overview of: Zechariah

Today's Reading:
Zechariah 8:1-23
"God's Promise to Bless"

Focus Verses: Zechariah 8:3-5,23
3 This is what the LORD says: "I will return to Zion and dwell in Jerusalem. Then Jerusalem will be called the City of Truth, and the mountain of the LORD Almighty will be called the Holy Mountain." 4 This is what the LORD Almighty says: "Once again men and women of ripe old age will sit in the streets of Jerusalem, each with cane in hand because of his age. 5 The city streets will be filled with boys and girls playing there." - - - 23 This is what the LORD Almighty says: "In those days ten men from all languages and nations will take firm hold of one Jew by the hem of his robe and say, 'Let us go with you, because we have heard that God is with you.' "

Insight:
Zechariah, one of the young people who returned to Jerusalem, was a member of a priestly family. Like Haggai, Zechariah urged the people of Israel to complete the rebuilding of the Temple, and called them to embrace God's promise of restoration and blessing. These promises, he said, were something they would enjoy into old age and for generations to come. God's renewal and blessing would be so complete that surrounding nations and cultures would come to Jerusalem and ask to know the living God.

Response and Action:
I want to embrace God's promises to renew, transform, and bless my life. My commitment to seek, honor, and obey God, springs from my faith in his promises. My hope in Christ is a long-term perspective. I fully expect to experience God's blessing into my old age. I fully expect my commitment to Christ to result in blessing for my children and for their children. I pray that the blessing of the Lord would be so visible in my life that I can serve as an example of how to seek God and follow Jesus.

O God, teach me to number my days that I might present a heart of wisdom. Increase my faith and help me to cling to your promises. Strengthen and transform me as I follow in the footsteps of Christ, and build my life upon the solid foundation of his teaching. Make my life a testimony of your grace, and a light to all who seek your truth and blessing. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 8:33-34
"Listen to my (wisdom's) instruction and be wise; do not ignore it. Blessed is the man who listens to me (wisdom), watching daily at my doors, waiting at my doorway."

New Testament for Today: 1 Peter 3:15
15 But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect...
In Context: 1 Peter 3:8-22

Recommended Reading:
Reimagining Evangelism: Inviting Friends on a Spiritual Journey
by Rick Richardson

March 7 - The Time Has Come

Overview of: Haggai

Today's Reading:
Haggai 1:1 – 2:5
"A Call to Build"

Focus Verses: Haggai 1:2-6
2 This is what the LORD Almighty says: "These people say, 'The time has not yet come for the LORD's house to be built.' " 3 Then the word of the LORD came through the prophet Haggai: 4 "Is it a time for you yourselves to be living in your paneled houses, while this house remains a ruin?" 5 Now this is what the LORD Almighty says: "Give careful thought to your ways. 6 You have planted much, but have harvested little. You eat, but never have enough. You drink, but never have your fill. You put on clothes, but are not warm. You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it."

Insight:
About 50,000 Jews returned from their captivity in Persia to restore Jerusalem. In yesterday’s reading (Ezra), we observed that the first thing the returning exiles did was to erect an altar to the Lord, and to build the foundation for the Temple they planned to restore.

With that good start, the people then turned their attention to building their own homes, planting crops, and setting up their businesses. Unfortunately, as they became more involved with their own daily affairs, they fell into a pattern of procrastination regarding the Temple. God sent the prophet Haggai to warn the people about their priorities. It was time to put God first and complete the rebuilding of the Temple.

Response and Action:
There are days and seasons in life where it is difficult to balance the practical demands of daily life with my intentions and priority for personal worship and devotion. It's easy for Bible reading, prayer, and church to get bumped aside by illness, unexpected work demands, family concerns, bad weather, and traffic jams.

It's one thing for my worship and spiritual disciplines to be disrupted occasionally; it's another thing to slip into a pattern of procrastination. Disruptions can too easily become disregard. Disregard will certainly lead into disillusion and dismay. I must put God first and make worship and personal devotion to him a priority.

O God, help me to be a good steward of all you have given to me. Grant me the wisdom and the will to guard my heart, feed my spirit, stimulate my mind, and care for my body. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Teach me to seek you first above all else. Be the center, the foundation, and the wellspring of my life. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 7:4-5
"Say to wisdom, 'You are my sister,' and call understanding your kinsman; they will keep you from the adulteress, from the wayward wife with her seductive words."

New Testament for Today: Matthew 6:33-34
33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.
In Context: Matt. 6:25-34

Recommended Reading:
Freedom from Tyranny of the Urgent
by Charles E. Hummel

March 6 - Restored to Rebuild

Overview of: Ezra

Today's Reading:
Ezra 1:1-7; 3:1 - 4:5
"The Exiles Return to Jerusalem"

Focus Verses: Ezra 1:1-3
1 In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, in order to fulfill the word of the LORD spoken by Jeremiah, the LORD moved the heart of Cyrus king of Persia to make a proclamation throughout his realm and to put it in writing: 2 "This is what Cyrus king of Persia says: 'The LORD, the God of heaven, has given me all the kingdoms of the earth and he has appointed me to build a temple for him at Jerusalem in Judah. 3 Anyone of his people among you—may his God be with him, and let him go up to Jerusalem in Judah and build the temple of the LORD, the God of Israel, the God who is in Jerusalem.' "

Insight:
God had used foreign powers to humble, discipline, and purify his people. Seventy years later, just as he had promised through the prophet Jeremiah, he used the King of Persia to restore the Israelites to their homeland. During their years of exile, God had used prophets and leaders like Ezekiel and Daniel to preserve a remnant of Israel. These faithful Jews were now given the chance to return to their homeland.

The first thing those who returned to Jerusalem did was to build an altar to the Lord. They reestablished a priesthood, and restored the practices of worship, feast days, and sacrifices. Zerubbabel led the effort to rebuild the Temple.

Response and Action:
God is able to accomplish his purpose in my life. The very things that challenge, humble, and refine me today, God can use to restore and renew me tomorrow. The most important thing I can do is to seek and love the Lord with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. If my eyes are fixed on Jesus, I will not need God's hand of discipline to turn me toward him. If I seek him with my whole heart, he will sustain me through times of challenge and hardship. And when I experience times of favor and success, I will be careful to make worship my first priority and concern.

O God, you are sovereign. You are able to accomplish your purposes in the world and in my life. Give me the wisdom to keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and my heart turned toward you. Help me to seek first your kingdom and your righteousness, trusting that everything else I need will be provided. Thank you for your great faithfulness and the hope of restoration you have given me in Christ. It's in his redeeming name that I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 6:5
"Free yourself, like a gazelle from the hand of the hunter, like a bird from the snare of the fowler."

New Testament for Today: Jude 1:24-25
24 To him who is able to keep you from falling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy— 25 to the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.
In Context: Jude 1:17-25

Recommended Reading:
Renewing The City: Reflections On Community Development And Urban Renewal
by Robert D. Lupton

March 5 - Praying at My Window

Overview of: Daniel

Today's Reading:
Daniel 6:1-28
"Daniel Thrown to the Lions"

Focus Verses: Daniel 6:10
10 Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before.

Insight:
As a young man, Daniel had lived with discipline and resolve (ch. 1). It is no surprise, then, that we find him (ch. 6) living a disciplined life of integrity as an older man. His routine and habits were so regular, and his character so blameless, that his enemies could not find anything in his life that could be used to discredit him. All they could do was look for a way to use Daniel's devotion to God against him.

When Daniel learned that his daily prayers had been banned. He refused to stop praying. He continued to pray as he always had, and made no effort to hide his practice. Three times a day he would open his upstairs windows and pray toward Jerusalem. His faith in the God of Israel was stronger than any fear of his enemies or the King of Persia.

Just as God had delivered Daniel's friends from the fiery furnace, Daniel was delivered from the mouths of lions. King Darius seems to have hoped Daniel's God would save him, and when he saw Daniel had been protected from death, he issued a decree that everyone should worship the God of Daniel.

Response and Action:
If it was illegal to pray, would there be enough evidence and consistency about prayer in my life for someone to convict me? Would a ban on prayer be a threat to my daily pattern of life? Would it change anything?

I want to be a person of prayer. I will commit my efforts to establish daily prayer habits. Daniel had three intentional prayer times each day. Similarly, I want to establish a pattern of setting aside a time for prayer every morning, afternoon, and evening. No one is threatening me or telling me I can't do this!

O God, thank you for the freedom and blessing I have to openly honor you through worship, prayer, and time in your word. Give me the wisdom and discipline to establish intentional and consistent daily practices that turn my heart and mind to you. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, mercifully shape and direct my life that I might be a blessing to others and a testimony of your goodness to your people. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 5:21-23
"For a man's ways are in full view of the LORD, and he examines all his paths. The evil deeds of a wicked man ensnare him; the cords of his sin hold him fast. He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly."

New Testament for Today: Ephesians 6:10,18
18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints.
In Context: Ephesians 6:10-20

Recommended Reading:
Daring to Draw Near: People in Prayer
by John White

March 4 - God's Hand

Overview of: Daniel

Today's Reading:
Daniel 5:1-31
"The Writing on the Wall"

Focus Verses: Daniel 5:22-24
22 "But you his son, O Belshazzar, have not humbled yourself, though you knew all this. 23 Instead, you have set yourself up against the Lord of heaven. You had the goblets from his temple brought to you, and you and your nobles, your wives and your concubines drank wine from them. You praised the gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, wood and stone, which cannot see or hear or understand. But you did not honor the God who holds in his hand your life and all your ways. 24 Therefore he sent the hand that wrote the inscription. 25 This is the inscription that was written: 'Mene , Mene , Tekel , Parsin.' "

Insight:
King Belshazzar should have learned something about being humble before God from the life experiences of his predecessor, Nebuchadnezzar. Instead, Belshazzar showed contempt for the God of Israel by using Temple goblets as party ware. Because these goblets had been made and set aside for a holy purpose, the arrogant carelessness of using them in pagan revelry was condemned as contempt for the God of Israel. Belshazzar did not recognize that his life was in God's hand, and so instead of receiving blessing from that hand, he would find it to be a hand of judgment.

Response and Action:
My life is in God's hand. He has made me for holy purposes. Giving myself to careless deeds and ungodly acts is an offense to God. I want to live with care and devotion toward God. I want to honor God with my mind and body. I will humble myself before God, and be careful to give myself to the things that serve his purposes and bring honor to his Name.

O God, give me the wisdom to understand that my life is from you. Save me from the arrogance and carelessness that would make it necessary for you to turn your hand in judgment against me. Grant me a heart that delights in your will. Help me to walk in your ways to the glory of your Name. Give me faith and humility to always look to your hand for blessing and direction. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 4:23
"Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life."

New Testament for Today: 2 Tim. 2:20-21
20 In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. 21 If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.
In Context: 2 Tim. 2:14-26

Recommended Reading:
Embracing the Mysterious God
by James Emery White

March 3 - Uncompromising Faith

Overview of: Daniel

Today's Reading:
Daniel 3:1-29
"Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego"

Focus Verses: Daniel 3:16-18
16 Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego replied to the king, "O Nebuchadnezzar, we do not need to defend ourselves before you in this matter. 17 If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. 18 But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."

Insight:
When King Nebuchadnezzar commanded everyone to bow to the huge image he had made, Daniel's friends--Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego--refused to bow. They were unwilling to compromise their devotion to God. They were fully willing to face the consequences of their resistance, and trusted God to help them. Even if their faithfulness to God meant death, they were willing to stay true. They believed God could deliver them, but their faith was not dependent upon that. They were willing to honor God whether by life or death.

Response and Action:
I need to guard against compromising my faith in order to fit in or go along with the demands and expectations of my culture. I will not protect others from my faith in Jesus. I will not hide my love and commitment to him. Even if being seen as faithful to Jesus results in some difficult consequences, I will trust in God to deliver and sustain me.

O God, help me to honor you in all I say and do. Give me the courage to be open and confident in my faith. Don't let me be conformed to the pattern of this world, but instead, help me to be transformed by the power of your Holy Spirit. You alone, O Lord, are worthy of my praise and worship. Help me to be completely devoted to you, and to glorify Christ in every circumstance--whether by life or death. I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 3:5-6
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight."

New Testament for Today: Phil. 1:21
21 For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.
In Context: Philippians 1:12-30

Recommended Reading:
Courage & Calling: Embracing Your God-Given Potential
by Gordon T. Smith

Reading Schedule for March 3 - 8

Mar. 3 - Daniel 3:1-29
Mar. 4 - Daniel 5:1-31
Mar. 5 - Daniel 6:1-28
Mar. 6 - Ezra 1:1-7; 3:1-4:5
Mar. 7 - Haggai 1:1 – 2:5
Mar. 8 - Zech. 8:1-23



You're invited to read through the Bible with Dave Burkum. Six readings each week will take you through key scripture passages from Genesis through Revelation. Click here to download your copy of the Useful Breath Reading Schedule for 2007-08.

March 1 - When God Shines Through

Overview of: Daniel

Today's Reading:
Daniel 2:24-49
"Daniel Explains the King's Dream"

Focus Verses: Daniel 2:46-47
46 Then King Nebuchadnezzar fell prostrate before Daniel and paid him honor and ordered that an offering and incense be presented to him. 47 The king said to Daniel, "Surely your God is the God of gods and the Lord of kings and a revealer of mysteries, for you were able to reveal this mystery."

Insight:
King Nebuchadnezzar had been deeply troubled by his dream. Though he was sure this dream had an important meaning, he had no confidence in his astrologers or wise men to interpret it, and this troubled him even more.

When Daniel was able to tell Nebuchadnezzar what he had dreamed, Nebuchadnezzar was convinced he could trust Daniel's interpretation. He believed that Daniel had done something he could only have done with God's help.

Response and Action:
I will look to God for the grace, strength, and wisdom to do good things. I want to serve and bless others in ways that give witness to God's presence and power in my life.

O God, I am weak but you are strong. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, lead, teach, transform, shape, and strengthen me, that I might delight in your will, and walk in your ways, to the glory of your name. May the work of my hands, the words of my mouth, and generosity of my heart all give witness to the Spirit of Christ who lives in me. It's in His name, I pray. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 1:7
"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline."

New Testament for Today: 2 Cor. 4:7
7 But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.
In Context: 2 Corinthians 4:1-18

Recommended Reading:
Courage & Calling: Embracing Your God-Given Potential
by Gordon T. Smith