December 19 - Folly in Getting My Way

Overview of: 1 Samuel

Today's Reading:
1Sam 10:9 – 11:14
"Saul Is Made King"

Focus Verses: 1 Samuel 10:17-19, 25
17 Samuel summoned the people of Israel to the LORD at Mizpah 18 and said to them, "This is what the LORD, the God of Israel, says: 'I brought Israel up out of Egypt, and I delivered you from the power of Egypt and all the kingdoms that oppressed you.' 19 But you have now rejected your God, who saves you out of all your calamities and distresses. And you have said, 'No, set a king over us.' So now present yourselves before the LORD by your tribes and clans." - - - 25 Samuel explained to the people the regulations of the kingship. He wrote them down on a scroll and deposited it before the LORD. Then Samuel dismissed the people, each to his own home.

Insight:
Rather than seeking God or listening to Samuel, the people were sure they needed a king. They thought that would make them like other nations and fix everything. They imagined a king who would fight their battles and solve their problems. They were unwilling to heed any warning of how a king could actually make their life worse. And since they would not listen, God gave them what they wanted (see also 1 Samuel 8:19-22).

Response and Action:
How many times do I look to something other than God to solve my problems? It is so easy to look at the world around me and think that if I did things the way they do them, my life would be better, easier, or safer. Rejecting God and his ways is never the way to go--even if God is willing to let me go that way. Getting my own way may not be what is best, what I need, or what I want. I will be careful to seek God with my whole heart, listen, and always turn to him first for the direction I need.

O God, help me to keep my eyes on you. Help me to not envy the wicked or put my faith in the ways of man. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God, my savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Colossians 3:2
2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
In Context: Colossians 3:1-17

Proverb for Today: Prov. 19:2
"It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way."

Resources:
The Prayer God Longs For
by James Emery White

December 18 - Anointed Purpose

Overview of: 1 Samuel

Today's Reading:
1Sam. 8:1 – 10:8
"Israel's First King"

Focus Verses: 1 Samuel 9:25 - 10:1
9:25 After they came down from the high place to the town, Samuel talked with Saul on the roof of his house. 26 They rose about daybreak and Samuel called to Saul on the roof, "Get ready, and I will send you on your way." When Saul got ready, he and Samuel went outside together. 27 As they were going down to the edge of the town, Samuel said to Saul, "Tell the servant to go on ahead of us"-and the servant did so-"but you stay here awhile, so that I may give you a message from God." 10:1 Then Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it on Saul's head and kissed him, saying, "Has not the LORD anointed you leader over his inheritance?

Insight:
Saul was chosen by God to accomplish a specific purpose. Seemingly mundane events in Saul's life were used by God in order to get Saul to the right place at the right time. As a witness to Saul that he was God's choice, Samuel anointed him with oil. Then, in order to confirm his words and actions to Saul, Samuel prophesied to him about specific things he would soon encounter and experience.

Response and Action:
I want to discover God's purpose and plan for me. I believe that the simple everyday actions of my life can be used by God to lead me to the place he wants me to be at the time he wants me to be there in order to to things he wants me to do. I will trust God to show me his will and to help me to do it by the power and grace of his Holy Spirit.

O God, lead me, teach me, transform, shape and strengthen me that I might delight in your will and walk in your ways to the glory of your Name. Confirm your calling and purpose for my life as seek you and prayerfully apply your word each day. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Romans 12:1,2
1 Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. 2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
In Context: Romans 12:1-8

Proverb for Today: Prov. 18:12
"Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor."

Resources:
Listening to God in Times of Choice: The Art of Discerning God's Will
by Gordon T. Smith

December 17 - Losing Sight of God

Overview of: 1 Samuel

Today's Reading:
1Sam. 4:1 – 6:21
"The Ark is Captured and Returned"

Focus Verses: 1 Samuel 4:2-3
2 The Philistines deployed their forces to meet Israel, and as the battle spread, Israel was defeated by the Philistines, who killed about four thousand of them on the battlefield. 3 When the soldiers returned to camp, the elders of Israel asked, "Why did the LORD bring defeat upon us today before the Philistines? Let us bring the ark of the LORD's covenant from Shiloh, so that it may go with us and save us from the hand of our enemies."

Insight:
After suffering defeat at the hands of the Philistines, the elders of Israel asked a good question: "Why did the Lord bring this upon us today?" The answer they came up with was not so good: "Maybe we should get the Ark of the covenant so that it may go with us and save us."

Instead of considering their own corruption and faithlessness, they assumed they had made some error in their method or ritual. Instead of directing their question to God and looking for an answer from him, they just asked each other and came up with their own ideas. Instead of trusting in God, they trusted in an object. They turned an object intended to help them worship God, into an idol that took the place of God.

Response and Action:
My hope is in the Lord. When facing difficulties and defeats, I will look to God for the guidance and strength I need. I do not want the things intended to point me to God to become things that take his place. Religion, spiritual disciplines, church gatherings, Christian service, Scripture, and Christian community are wonderful things that can help me know and honor God, BUT they can never take the place of God himself. I will make every effort to seek, know, and follow Jesus. I will put my hope in him alone.

O God, you are my God. I earnestly seek you. My soul yearns for you and my body longs for you. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Lead me away from temptation, deliver me from evil, and provide for my needs today. Protect me from discouragement, and encourage me by your Spirit through your word, your people, your promises, and all that is beautiful and true. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: 1 Peter 5:6,7
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
In Context: 1 Peter 5:1-11

Proverb for Today: Prov. 17:3
"The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but the LORD tests the heart."

Resources:
Breaking the Idols of Your Heart
by Dan Allender and Tremper Longman

December 16 - He Cares and He's Able

Overview of: 1 Samuel

Today's Reading:
1 Sam. 1:1 – 3:21
"Samuel's Birth and Calling"

Focus Verses: 1 Samuel 2:7-8
7 The LORD sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts. 8 He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; he seats them with princes and has them inherit a throne of honor. For the foundations of the earth are the LORD's; upon them he has set the world.

Insight:
Hannah was downhearted about being childless and prayed that God would bless her with a son. When her prayer was answered, she raised her voice in a song of praise. Her experience was a clear testimony of God's ability to raise up the poor and to lift up the needy. Her son, Samuel, would become the last and greatest of the Israelite judges. He functioned as a leader, priest, and prophet and he ushered in the era of Israel's kings.

Response and Action:
God is able to bring about great things and great leaders from humble, weak, and unexpected places. I must always remember that God can bless and use me. I will be careful to ask for God's blessings, be faithful to use those blessings to serve God, and be quick to praise God for them.

O God, bless me in ways that help me to serve and honor you. Remind me of your power and provision. Give me the courage to ask for the things I long for. Give me a heart that longs for your will. Teach me to walk in your ways and to give you thanks in all things. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: 1 Peter 5:6,7
6 Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.
In Context: 1 Peter 5:1-11

Proverb for Today: Prov. 16:22
"Understanding is a fountain of life to those who have it, but folly brings punishment to fools."

Resources:
Waiting: Finding Hope When God Seems Silent
by Ben Patterson

December 15 - A Son Is Born

Overview of: Ruth

Today's Reading:
Ruth 3:1 – 4:22
"Boaz and Ruth to David"

Focus Verses: Ruth 4:13-17
13 So Boaz took Ruth and she became his wife. Then he went to her, and the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son. 14 The women said to Naomi: "Praise be to the LORD, who this day has not left you without a kinsman-redeemer. May he become famous throughout Israel! 15 He will renew your life and sustain you in your old age. For your daughter-in-law, who loves you and who is better to you than seven sons, has given him birth."16 Then Naomi took the child, laid him in her lap and cared for him. 17 The women living there said, "Naomi has a son." And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.

Insight:
Though Naomi and Ruth were without husbands and without the means to provide for themselves, they were not without hope. They found redemption through their kinsman, Boaz. He paid their debts, restored their family property in Israel, married Ruth, and gave her a son (a grandson for Naomi). This little son, Obed, would one day have a son named Jesse, who would have a son named David, who would become the great psalmist, warrior, and king of Israel.

A thousand years later, another baby named Jesus was born in the line of David. He became the kinsman-redeemer of the world. He is able to redeem us from our hopeless situation. He pays our debt, gives us a place among God's people, and makes us children of God.

Response and Action:
I will look to Jesus for redemption and restoration. My situation and needs may seem hopeless, but my Redeemer is able to save and help me. If I humble myself and ask him to cover me with his grace, he will bless me by making me his own and giving me hope for the future.

O God, thank you for sending Christ Jesus into the world to share humanity with me as a kinsman. Thank you that he is able to redeem and restore all who come to him. Thank you for making me your child, for giving me purpose, for forgiving my sin, and for freeing me from bondage to sin. Through Christ, I pray. Hallelujah! What a Savior! Amen.

New Testament for Today: 1 Peter 1:18-19
18 For you know that it was not with perishable things such as silver or gold that you were redeemed from the empty way of life handed down to you from your forefathers, 19 but with the precious blood of Christ, a lamb without blemish or defect.
In Context: 1 Peter 1:13-25

Proverb for Today: Prov. 15:25
"The LORD tears down the proud man's house but he keeps the widow's boundaries intact."

Resources:
The Incomparable Christ
by John Stott

Reading Schedule for December 15 - 20

Dec. 15 - Ruth 3:1 – 4:22
Dec. 16 - 1Sam. 1:1 – 3:21
Dec. 17 - 1Sam. 4:1 – 6:21
Dec. 18 - 1Sam. 8:1 – 10:8
Dec. 19 - 1Sam 10:9 – 11:14
Dec. 20 - 1Sam. 15:1 - 16:23

You're invited to read through the Bible with Dave Burkum. Six readings each week will take you through the entire New Testament and key passages of the Old Testament. The 2008-09 Useful Breath reading can be downloaded for printing by clicking the link in the right column.

December 13 - Determined to Go

Overview of: Ruth

Today's Reading:
Ruth 1:1-2:23
"Naomi, Ruth, and Boaz"

Focus Verses: Ruth 1:16-18
16 But Ruth replied, "Don't urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. 17 Where you die I will die, and there I will be buried. May the LORD deal with me, be it ever so severely, if anything but death separates you and me." 18 When Naomi realized that Ruth was determined to go with her, she stopped urging her.

Insight:
Ruth was not an Israelite, and yet she embraced the God of Israel and his people with unselfish and wholehearted devotion. She was determined to stay with and care for her desolate mother-in-law, Naomi. God was faithful to them both, providing for their needs and blessing their future. Ruth is listed in the ancestry of King David and is therefore also in the lineage of Jesus Christ.

Response and Action:
God is faithful to all who turn to him in faith. Ruth turned embraced the true God and was willing to leave everything behind. I want to follow after God and be willing to leave anything that would hinder me from doing so.

O God, help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Help me to walk in your ways and to delight in your will. Thank you for accepting me as your child. Please provide for my needs and bless me as I seek you first. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Eph. 2:19
19 "...you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God's people and members of God's household..."
In Context: Ephesians 2:1-22

Proverb for Today: Prov. 13:12
"Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life."

Resources:
Cries of The Heart
by Ravi Zacharias

December 12 - Power Failure

Overview of: Judges

Today's Reading:
Judges 15:1 - 16:30
"Samson's Life and Death"

Focus Verses: Judges 16:20
20 Then she called, "Samson, the Philistines are upon you!" He awoke from his sleep and thought, "I'll go out as before and shake myself free." But he did not know that the LORD had left him.

Insight:
Samson's life seems to be way off track and his thinking about the source of his strength seems to have been lost too. His strength wasn't in his hair; it was in the Lord. His strength was gone because the Lord had left him. The cutting of his hair and his careless living were symptomatic of his unfaithfulness to God. It appears that he had become more confident in himself than in God. He learned the hard way that he was nothing without God.

Response and Action:
I need to have a constant awareness of God's presence and power in my life. I need to remember that every strength and success is from the Lord. I want to guard against the careless mistakes of self-reliance and self-indulgence.

O God, help me to live for you and look to you for the strength I need to do so. Forgive me for the times I rely on my own strength or take credit for the things you are doing in and through me. Help me to seek you with all my heart and to draw near to you. 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. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: James 4:7-8
7 Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. 8 Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
In Context: James 4:1-12

Proverb for Today: Prov. 12:26
"A righteous man is cautious in friendship, but the way of the wicked leads them astray."

Resources:
Following After God: What Difference Does God Make
by Daniel Hill

December 11 - Being More than Useful

Overview of: Judges

Today's Reading:
Judges 13:1 - 14:20
"Samson's Birth & Marriage"

Focus Verses: Judges 14:3-4
3 His father and mother replied, "Isn't there an acceptable woman among your relatives or among all our people? Must you go to the uncircumcised Philistines to get a wife?" But Samson said to his father, "Get her for me. She's the right one for me." 4 (His parents did not know that this was from the LORD, who was seeking an occasion to confront the Philistines; for at that time they were ruling over Israel.)

Insight:
Samson is not very likable or honorable. In just the few verses of this chapter, he seems brash, selfish, impulsive, violent, spoiled, disrespectful, deceptive, quarrelsome, and self-absorbed. Instead of driving out the Philistines, the Israelites were living among them and were dominated by them. Nonetheless, to the dismay of his parents, Samson decided (and demanded) to marry a Philistine woman. He is a stunning reminder that not every person used by God is a good example of how to follow God.

God, nonetheless, intended to accomplish his will through Samson (and his Samson-sized flaws). The redemptive power of God is so great that he can use even our failings to accomplish good. God can hit a home run with a broken bat.

The fact that God can redeem our failures, however, does not mean that God wants or needs us to sin. Samson learns the hard way that it is possible to be used by God and still lose sight of God. How much better it would have been for Samson, had he loved the Lord God with all his heart, soul, mind, and strength!

Response and Action:
I want to know God, not just be used by God. I want to set my heart on things above, to love God with everything I have, to know His will and to walk in His ways. I want my doing to flow out of my being. I want my service to God to flow out of my love for God. I will commit myself to living a righteous and pure life for God's glory, for my own joy and fulfillment, and that I might be used for noble purposes.

O God, draw me to you. Give me a pure and devoted heart. Strengthen me to love, obey, honor, and serve you. Help me to flee the evil desires of youth, and to pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace. And then, O Lord, use me to accomplish your purposes and your will. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: 2 Timothy 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 Timothy 2:1-26

Proverb for Today: Prov. 11:6
"The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires."

Resources:
Following After God: What Difference Does God Make
by Daniel Hill

December 10 - Strength

Overview of: Judges

Today's Reading:
Judges 6:1 - 7:25; 8:28-33
"Gideon"

Focus Verses: Judges 7:1-2
1 Early in the morning, Jerub-Baal (that is, Gideon) and all his men camped at the spring of Harod. The camp of Midian was north of them in the valley near the hill of Moreh. 2 The LORD said to Gideon, "You have too many men for me to deliver Midian into their hands. In order that Israel may not boast against me that her own strength has saved her..."

Insight:
The Israelites had been completely demoralized and dominated by Midian. When the angel of the Lord called Gideon to be a leader to liberate Israel, Gideon was hiding in a winepress to thresh a little grain for food. The thought of his calling was so intimidating he asked God for a sign, and then another, just to be sure he wasn't imagining things.

Gideon assembled 32,000 men to fight for freedom deliverance from Midian, but God said, "That’s too many. You're too strong. Send away those who are frightened." Immediately, 22,000 men left, which says something about how fierce and large the Midianite forces must have been.

Then God said to Gideon, "Ten thousand is still too many!" and proceeded to whittle the Israelite army down to only 300 men. God wanted the number of Israelites to be so incredibly small that only God could be credited with the victory.

Response and Action:
In what ways am I too strong for my own good? Are there times when I take credit for something God has done or is doing? Am I missing out on God's help because I think I'm able to handle things on my own? Do I trust God enough to step out and do things that are clearly too big for me to do in my own strength?

I want to give God glory and honor in every situation. I want to praise and thank God for every success and victory. I want to trust God so completely that I am willing to do what he calls me to do, even if it is something I am clearly too weak to accomplish on my own.

O God, I am weak but you are strong. Help me to see every strength and ability I have as a gift from you. Help me to see every weakness and fear I have as an opportunity for you to demonstrate your power and faithfulness. Help me to live by faith in you, not myself. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: 2 Corinthians 12:9b-10
9b Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me. 10 That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.
In Context: 2 Corinthians 11:16 - 12:10

Proverb for Today: Prov. 10:25
"When the storm has swept by, the wicked are gone, but the righteous stand firm forever."

Resources:
Breaking the Idols of Your Heart
by Dan Allender and Tremper Longman

December 9 - Generations

Overview of: Judges

Today's Reading:
Judges 2:1-19; 4:1-24
"Disobedience and Deborah"

Focus Verses: Judges 2:10-14
10 After that whole generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation grew up, who knew neither the LORD nor what he had done for Israel. 11 Then the Israelites did evil in the eyes of the LORD and served the Baals. 12 They forsook the LORD, the God of their fathers, who had brought them out of Egypt. They followed and worshiped various gods of the peoples around them. They provoked the LORD to anger 13 because they forsook him and served Baal and the Ashtoreths. 14 In his anger against Israel the LORD handed them over to raiders who plundered them. He sold them to their enemies all around, whom they were no longer able to resist.

Insight:
The new generation of Israelites born in the Promised Land, did not remember or appreciate their history. Did their parents fail to teach them? Did they simply not listen to their parents? Somehow they forgot their heritage and turned away from God to worship the idols and false gods of the people around them. This resulted in conflict, war, and bloodshed. They were caught in a tragic cycle. They would forget and forsake God. Then, they would fall prey to their enemies. Next, they would cry out to God for help. Then, God would deliver them and restore them through chosen leaders (judges) and they would prosper. But ultimately, they would once again forget and forsake God.

Response and Action:
I intend to face each new day with a fresh resolve to choose God and follow Christ Jesus. Every morning I will renew my commitment to Christ, turn to the Scriptures for guidance, and set my heart on walking in the ways of Jesus. I will make an effort to know and remember the works and ways of the Lord. I will try to pass on my knowledge and faith to my children.

O God, you are my God. Earnestly I seek you. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Help me to tell the stories and speak the truth of your faithfulness in meaningful and convincing ways so that my children and their peers might know you and find their hope and purpose in you. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Ephesians 6:4
4 Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.
In Context: Ephesians 5:21 - 6:4

Proverb for Today: Prov. 9:6
"Leave your simple ways and you will live; walk in the way of understanding."

Resources:
Never Beyond Hope: How God Touches and Uses Imperfect People
by J. I. Packer and Carolyn Nystrom

December 8 - Choosing

Overview of: Joshua

Today's Reading:
Josh. 23:1 - 24:33
"Joshua's Farewell"

Focus Verses: Joshua 24:14-15
14 "Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your forefathers worshiped beyond the River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD. 15 But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."

Insight:
Joshua had successfully led the Israelites into the Land of Promise. They had divided and conquered the land. They portioned out the land and gave an allotment to each of the tribes to settle and live. God's promises to Abraham were finally being fulfilled before their very eyes. Yet, the choice to follow God was just as real as ever. In his final words, Joshua reminded them that their choice to serve God was not just their heritage--it was central to their future.

Response and Action:
I intend to face each new day with a fresh resolve to choose God and follow Christ Jesus. Every morning I will renew my commitment to Christ, turn to the Scriptures for guidance, and set my heart on things above. I will love the Lord, my God, with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength.

O God, you are my God. Earnestly I seek you. My soul thirsts for you, my flesh yearns for you, in a dry weary land where there is no water. Uphold me with your right hand, O Lord. Show me your ways. Guide me in your truth and teach me. Your faithfulness is eternal, and your mercies are new every morning. Help me to choose you every day and to honor you in every way. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Colossians 3:2
2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.
In Context: Colossians 3:1-17

Proverb for Today: Prov. 8:10-11
"Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her."

Resources:
Listening to God in Times of Choice: The Art of Discerning God's Will
by Gordon T. Smith

Reading Schedule for December 8 - 13

Dec. 8 - Josh. 23:1 - 24:33
Dec. 9 - Jdgs. 2:1-19; 4:1-24
Dec. 10 - Jdgs. 6:1 - 7:25; 8:28-33
Dec. 11 - Jdgs. 13:1 - 14:20
Dec. 12 - Jdgs. 15:1 - 16:30
Dec. 13 - Ruth 1:1-22 - 2:23


You're invited to read through the Bible with Dave Burkum. Six readings each week will take you through the entire New Testament and key passages of the Old Testament. The 2008-09 Useful Breath reading can be downloaded for printing by clicking the link in the right column.

December 6 - Surrender

Overview of: Joshua

Today's Reading:
Josh 10:29 – 11:23
"Divide and Conquer"

Focus Verses: Joshua 11:18-20
18 Joshua waged war against all these kings for a long time. 19 Except for the Hivites living in Gibeon, not one city made a treaty of peace with the Israelites, who took them all in battle. 20 For it was the LORD himself who hardened their hearts to wage war against Israel, so that he might destroy them totally, exterminating them without mercy, as the LORD had commanded Moses.

Insight:
The story of the Hivites (Joshua 9) is a very interesting exception to the way most of the cities and kings responded to Israel's invasion into their land. The Hivites, having heard of God's command to Joshua to completely conquer and destroy them, came up with a plan to trick Israel into making a peace treaty. Instead of dismissing the God of Israel, they feared him. Instead of waging war, they accepted submission and servitude. This suggests to me, that other kings and peoples could have responded in a similar way, but didn't.

Response and Action:
If I reject God's ways, ignore his authority, or resist his purposes, I will be defeated. If I humble myself, recognize my limitations, acknowledge God's authority, and submit to his will, there is hope for me. Humble submission before God is always the way to life. Pride and rebellion is always the path of destruction. Surrendering to God is wise.

O God, give me the wisdom to acknowledge your authority, the humility to submit to you, and the readiness to walk in your ways. While many resist and deny you, help me to be responsive and reverent before you. Show me your ways, you are God, my savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: James 4:9-10
9 Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. 10 Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
In Context: James 4:1-12

Proverb for Today: Prov. 6:3
"...do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor's hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor!"

Resources:
The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others
by Scot McKnight

December 5 - Destroyed by Deceit

Overview of: Joshua

Today's Reading:
Josh. 7:1 – 8:35
"Achan's Sin"

Focus Verses: Joshua 7:19-21
19 Then Joshua said to Achan, "My son, give glory to the LORD, the God of Israel, and give him the praise. Tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me." 20 Achan replied, "It is true! I have sinned against the LORD, the God of Israel. This is what I have done: 21 When I saw in the plunder a beautiful robe from Babylonia, two hundred shekels of silver and a wedge of gold weighing fifty shekels, I coveted them and took them. They are hidden in the ground inside my tent, with the silver underneath."

Insight:
The story of Achan is sad and tragic. It's sad that Achan valued possessions more than he valued obedience to God. It's sad that he somehow thought he could hide his sin from God and from others. It's tragic that his sin resulted in others losing their lives. It's tragic how his self-indulgence turned out to be self-destruction.

Response and Action:
My secret sins are no secret to God. Still, I have secret sins and it's easy for me to identify with Achan. I don't want secret sins to destroy me or to hurt others. How many times have we all seen that!

I am thankful for the grace and forgiveness God has extended to me through Christ Jesus. I want to live a life that is fully devoted to him. I will not bury sins under the “tent floor” of my life. I will strive to be honest with God and with others. With the guidance of God’s word, and the transforming strength of the Holy Spirit, I can escape the snares and temptations of selfish desires.

O God, help me to walk with integrity. Do not let me be tempted beyond what I can bear. Strengthen me to stand and provide ways of escape. Transform and shape my heart so that I desire what you desire. Help me to remember that I am not my own, I have been bought with a price. Help me to live a life of devotion to you. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Gal. 6:7-8
7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
In Context: Galatians 6:1-10

Proverb for Today: Prov.5:22-23
"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."

Resources:
The Smell of Sin: And the Fresh Air of Grace
by Don Everts

December 4 - Victory by Faith

Overview of: Joshua

Today's Reading:
Josh. 5:1 – 6:27
"Gilgal and Jericho"

Focus Verses: Joshua 6:15-16
15 On the seventh day, they got up at daybreak and marched around the city seven times in the same manner, except that on that day they circled the city seven times. 16 The seventh time around, when the priests sounded the trumpet blast, Joshua commanded the people, "Shout! For the LORD has given you the city!

Insight:
Jericho was the first city to fall as the Israelites entered the Promised Land and began to divide and conquer. Rather than simply attacking the city, they followed God's command to march around the city for seven days in a solemn procession. The people were to march in silence while at the center of the procession seven priests walked before the Ark of the Covenant blowing on seven trumpets made of rams' horns. They marched around the city seven times on the seventh day, and then, at Joshua's command, they gave a loud shout and the walls of Jericho fell down.

This ritualistic approach to Jericho served to teach and remind the Israelites of several important things: 1. God was giving them the victory; 2. Worship and obedience were central to their success; 3. The God of Abraham was keeping his covenant promises; 4. The God of Abraham was their provider ("ram's horns" - Gen. 22); 5. Their victory was not the result of their own strength or power.

Response and Action:
In order to take hold of God's promises for my life, I will have to face and conquer some imposing challenges. Some of these challenges are like imposing fortified cities that I will not be able to bring down in my own strength. Before attacking these challenges and problems by myself, I will take time to march around them--worshiping, trusting, and waiting on God. The battle belongs to the Lord! I will look to him for the provision, the power, and guidance I need to face the demands of my relationships and responsibilities.

O God, give me the faith, obedience, and strength I need to enter into the promises you have made. Give me an awareness of your presence. Guide me with your Word. Help me to worship you in stillness, and to wait upon you, believing that you are my Provider. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: 1 John 5:3-4
3 This is love for God: to obey his commands. And his commands are not burdensome, 4 for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcome the world, even our faith.
In Context: 1 John 5:1-12

Proverb for Today: Prov.4:25-26
"Let your eyes look straight ahead,fix your gaze directly before you. Make level paths for your feet and take only ways that are firm."

Resources:
The Fight: A Practical Handbook to Christian Living
by John White

December 3 - Stones that Speak

Overview of: Joshua

Today's Reading:
Josh. 3:1 – 4:24
"Crossing the Jordan"

Focus Verses: Joshua 4:20-22,24
20 And Joshua set up at Gilgal the twelve stones they had taken out of the Jordan. 21 He said to the Israelites, "In the future when your descendants ask their fathers, 'What do these stones mean?' 22 tell them, 'Israel crossed the Jordan on dry ground.' - - - 24 He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the LORD is powerful and so that you might always fear the LORD your God."

Insight:
As the Israelites crossed the Jordan River, they took common rocks from the middle of the river and turned them into a memorial witness of their uncommon God. Every time someone saw that pile of twelve stones, it reminded them of the powerful way God showed himself to be their provider. The same God who had brought them out of Egypt, safely through the Red Sea, and safely through the wilderness, now brought them safely across the Jordan into the Land of Promise. Ordinary stones from the river became milestones of their journey--a memorial of God's faithfulness to them.

Response and Action:
Common things can serve as wonderful faith souvenirs that remind me of God's goodness and provision. In communion, common bread and wine become a witness of God's grace and deliverance in Christ's death and resurrection. In baptism, common water becomes a witness of the new life God offers to all who confess Jesus as Lord and Savior.

What is God bringing me through today? What common thing could I pick up today and turn into a witness and reminder of God's faithfulness to me?

O God, you are worthy of my praise and thanks. You guide and provide for your people as they follow you in faith. Open my eyes to all the common things around me that can serve as reminders of your uncommon power and goodness to me. Give me the creativity and discipline to gather small souvenirs along my life's journey to serve as witnesses of your love and mercy to me. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Luke 22:19
19 And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me."
In Context: Luke 22:7-30

Proverb for Today: Prov.3:3
"Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart."

Resources:
Unceasing Worship
by Harold Best

December 2 - Wisdom for Leading

Overview of: Joshua

Today's Reading:
Josh. 1:1 - 2:24
"New Leader, New Land"

Focus Verses: Joshua 1:7-9
7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. 8 Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go."

Insight:
The torch of leadership was passed on from Moses to Joshua. God admonished Joshua to be strong and courageous and to be careful to follow the commands he received through Moses. Though they would face frightening opposition and discouraging circumstances, God promised Joshua that he would be with him wherever he went, giving him strength and success.

Response and Action:
I'm no Joshua, but my life's journey requires strength and courage. Whether its big or small, we're all leaders in some way. We all have to take the lead at some time. As a follower of Jesus, I take heart in knowing that God will not forsake me in the times I need to be a leader. Like Joshua, I will commit myself to knowing and meditating upon God's written word. When I face difficult and discouraging circumstances, I will look to God for the energy and confidence I need to keep pressing forward.

O God, thank you for the promise to be with your people. Give me an awareness of your presence with me today. Grant me the strength and the faith I need to face the challenges and circumstances of my life. When I am frightened, guard my heart and mind with the peace of Christ Jesus. Protect me from discouragement, and encourage me, by your Holy Spirit, through your Word, your people, your promises, and all that is beautiful and true. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: John 14:27
27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
In Context: John 14:15-31

Proverb for Today: Prov.2:6
"For the LORD gives wisdom, and from his mouth come knowledge and understanding."

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

December 1 - Starting with Praise

Overview of: Deuteronomy

Today's Reading:
Dt. 31:30 – 34:12
"Moses' Song, Blessing, and Death"

Focus Verses: Deuteronomy 31:1-4
1 Listen, O heavens, and I will speak; hear, O earth, the words of my mouth. 2 Let my teaching fall like rain and my words descend like dew, like showers on new grass, like abundant rain on tender plants. 3 I will proclaim the name of the LORD. Oh, praise the greatness of our God! 4 He is the Rock, his works are perfect, and all his ways are just. A faithful God who does no wrong, upright and just is he.

Insight:
These last chapters of Deuteronomy contain the last words Moses spoke to his people. He begins with a song, and that song begins with praise. The song is very sobering as it recounts the unfaithfulness of God's people and the wickedness and idolatry of the nations. Both the song and the blessings Moses proclaims have an ominous tone as he speaks of the dangers of turning away from God. Their is promise and joy for those who walk in God's ways, but destruction for those who do not. Those who rejoice at the end of their lives will be those who are careful to begin everything they do with praise for God.

Response and Action:
I will acknowledge God's goodness and authority in all things. Honoring and worshiping God must extend into every activity of life. Every hope, desire, plan, dream, and action must be an act of praise. Every thing I do must be done to the glory of God. I want a life that pleasing to God and a joy for me. My devotion, worship, and obedience to God must be first in all things.

O God, you are my God. I will seek you earnestly. Do not let me stray from your commands. Show me your ways. Guide me in your truth and teach me. Help me to live out my praise and reverence for you in every thought, word, desire, and deed. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Col. 3:16-17
16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God. 17 And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
In Context: Colossians 3:1-17

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

Resources:
Worship & Celebration
by Jan Johnson