June 18 - He Will Save

Overview of: Matthew

Today's Reading:
Matthew 1:1 – 2:23
"The Birth of Jesus"

Focus Verses: Matthew 1:20-23
20 But after he had considered this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, "Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins." 22 All this took place to fulfill what the Lord had said through the prophet: 23 "The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel"—which means, "God with us."

Insight:
Throughout history, God has done so much to save his people. The fullest expression of his salvation is revealed through Jesus (whose very name means "the Lord saves"). Jesus saves us from our sins. He saves us from the results of our sin and from bondage to our sin. This is the greatest salvation imaginable -- to be saved from sin's domination and from sin's destruction. Loud songs of praise and fresh expressions of thanksgiving should spring from the hearts and mouths of all who come to know this salvation.

Response and Action:
I will celebrate the marvelous ways God has shown me salvation. I will praise him for the promise of eternal life. Today, I will sing out my thanks for the ways he saves me from hopelessness and emptiness. Right now, I will lift up my voice in worship for the freedom he gives from bondage to sin. I will rejoice because he has taken away the guilt of my sin. I will shout praise to Jesus, because he saves!

Salvation is so much more than a theological concept or religious precept; it is the reality of my life. It's more than a belief; it's my standing in Christ Jesus. It's not just for someday; it's for NOW. Sing a new song to the Lord! He has saved, he is saving, and he will always save!

O God, O Christ Jesus, O Holy Spirit, I want to sing a new song of praise to you today! Show your righteousness and salvation to the ends of the earth. Open the eyes of all people, that they might see Jesus in all his redeeming work and saving power. O God, give me a heart of gratitude and mouth quick to sing your praise. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 97:1-2
1 Sing to the LORD a new song, for he has done marvelous things; his right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. 2 The LORD has made his salvation known and revealed his righteousness to the nations.
In Context: Psalm 97

Proverb for Today: Prov. 18:10
"The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe."

Recommended Reading:
Jesus: Lord and Savior
by F. F. Bruce

June 17 - Everything New

Overview of: Revelation

Today's Reading:
Revelation 20:1 – 22:21
"Ultimate Victory"

Focus Verses: Revelation 21:2-5a
2 I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. 4 He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away." 5a He who was seated on the throne said, "I am making everything new!"

Insight:
The thought of living in God's presence in a world God has saved and perfected is the hope every Christian expresses when praying, "Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." This hope is more than a promise for someday in the distant future, it is the present reality for Christians who will recognize the indwelling of God's Spirit in their lives today. "Surely I am with you, always, to the very end of the age" was Jesus' assurance to his disciples before his ascension into heaven.

Response and Action:
I must take hold of Jesus' promise to be with me today. I want to cultivate a tangible and continual awareness of his Spirit in my life. I want to acknowledge present reality that Christ Jesus is living with me today. I want to persevere with a hope rooted in the future reality God has promised -- the day when the world will be made right, all evil swept away, and every tear wiped away.

O God, help me to trust in you with all my heart and to acknowledge you in all my ways. Help me to cultivate my awareness of your presence with me today. Fill me with hope and encouragement as I cling to your promise of a day when I will live in the very light of your glorious presence. Thank you for your Holy Spirit who indwells my mortal body right now. Help me to be sensitive to your Spirit as you lead and shape me today. Amen.

When Christ shall come will shout of acclamation,
To heal this world, what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I will bow in humble adoration,
And there proclaim, "My God, how great you are!"

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 89:15-16
15 Blessed are those who have learned to acclaim you, who walk in the light of your presence, O LORD. 16 They rejoice in your name all day long; they exult in your righteousness.
In Context: Psalm 89

Proverb for Today: Prov. 17:2
"A wise servant will rule over a disgraceful son, and will share the inheritance as one of the brothers."

Recommended Reading:
Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church
by N. T. Wright

June 16 - Lamb, Lord, King

Overview of: Revelation

Today's Reading:
Revelation 16:1 – 19:21
"Wrath, War, and Worship"

Focus Verses: Revelation 17:12-14
12 "The ten horns you saw are ten kings who have not yet received a kingdom, but who for one hour will receive authority as kings along with the beast. 13 They have one purpose and will give their power and authority to the beast. 14 They will make war against the Lamb, but the Lamb will overcome them because he is Lord of lords and King of kings—and with him will be his called, chosen and faithful followers."

Insight:
All powers and authorities lifted up against God and his purposes will ultimately be brought down in defeat. Those who boast of their power and seem to have unlimited dominance will one day be judged and reduced to nothing. The Kingdom of Heaven and the chosen and faithful followers of the Lamb will eventually overcome because their Lord and Savior is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords.

Response and Action:
God's people have always had to persevere in the face of oppression. From the ancient days of the Psalmist to the days of the Apostle John to the present days of the persecuted church in many areas of the world, God-fearing believers have been sustained by their faith in a righteous God who will one day put the world to rights and save his people from the corrupt powers of this world. My hope is in the Lord. I stand with those who follow the Lamb.

O God, sustain me and give me hope. Save this world and your people from the hands of wicked rulers and corrupt powers. Bring down those who oppress and destroy and deliver us from evil. Come Lord, quickly, and save. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 75:7-10
7 But it is God who judges: He brings one down, he exalts another. 8 In the hand of the LORD is a cup full of foaming wine mixed with spices; he pours it out, and all the wicked of the earth drink it down to its very dregs. 9 As for me, I will declare this forever; I will sing praise to the God of Jacob. 10 I will cut off the horns of all the wicked, but the horns of the righteous will be lifted up.
In Context: Psalm 75

Proverb for Today: Prov. 16:4
"The LORD works out everything for his own ends—even the wicked for a day of disaster."

Recommended Reading:
Deliver Us From Evil
by Ravi Zacharias

June 15 - The Battle

Overview of: Revelation

Today's Reading:
Revelation 12:1 – 15:8
"The Dragon and the Lamb"

Focus Verses: Revelation 12:10
10 Then I heard a loud voice in heaven say: "Now have come the salvation and the power and the kingdom of our God, and the authority of his Christ. For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God day and night, has been hurled down.

Insight:
There is so much in life that poses a threat to my well-being and causes me to be weary. Beyond the practical difficulties of my circumstances and problems, these things are part of a spiritual battle for my heart and mind.

Response and Action:
I recognize that there is a spiritual dimension to the challenges and struggles I face. According to the Scriptures, all of creation is part of a cosmic battle God is waging to redeem and save. I will cry out to the Rock who is higher than I when I am weary and overwhelmed. I believe in the salvation, power, and authority of Christ. I believe that he can save me and bring me safely to himself.

Save me, O God, when my heart is fainting. Lead me away from temptation and deliver me from evil. Protect me from discouragement and encourage me, by your Spirit, through your word, your people, your promises, and all that is beautiful and true. 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 trust and acknowledge you in all my ways. Be my rock and helper in every storm and trial. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 61:1-2
1 Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
In Context: Psalm 61

Proverb for Today: Prov. 15:11
"Death and Destruction lie open before the LORD—how much more do human hearts!"

Recommended Reading:
The Throne, the Lamb & the Dragon: A Reader's Guide to the Book of Revelation
by Paul Spilsbury

Reading Schedule for June 15 - 20

June 15 - Rev. 12:1 – 15:8
June 16 - Rev. 16:1 – 19:21
June 17 - Rev. 20:1 – 22:21
June 18 - Matt. 1:1 – 2:23
June 19 - Matt. 3:1 – 4:25
June 20 - Matt. 5:1 – 7:28




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 by clicking the link in the right column.

June 13 - Bittersweet

Overview of: Revelation

Today's Reading:
Revelation 8:1 – 11:19
"Woes and Judgment"

Focus Verses: Revelation 10:9-11
9 So I went to the angel and asked him to give me the little scroll. He said to me, "Take it and eat it. It will turn your stomach sour, but in your mouth it will be as sweet as honey." 10 I took the little scroll from the angel's hand and ate it. It tasted as sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it, my stomach turned sour. 11 Then I was told, "You must prophesy again about many peoples, nations, languages and kings."

Insight:
God is the righteous and the Mighty Lord of all the heavens and earth. He shines forth in perfect beauty and summons all the earth and all people of all times to stand before him -- those who have made a covenant with him, and those who have ignored and rejected him. Judgment is a bitter thing to consider and take in, but the sweetness of a just and redeemed world is not possible without it. Thankfully, the Mighty Judge is also Mighty Savior, and has made a way -- the Lamb of God -- for everyone to find redemption and salvation.

Response and Action:
I must acknowledge my own sin and recognize my need for salvation. I will live in covenant with God by taking hold of the salvation he offers through Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who has laid down his life in order to bring me safely through the fire of God's refining judgment. While judgment is bitter to me, redemption and the hope of a purified and righteous world is sweet to me. I will celebrate and share God's love and power to save. I will shout out the hope of salvation and the hope of a restored and renewed world, through faith in Christ Jesus.

O God, shine forth in perfect beauty and righteousness. Make your salvation known to all peoples, nations, languages, and kings, that they might escape your righteous judgment by your gracious redemption. May the sweetness of your desire to save overpower the bitterness of judgment that comes only to those who refuse your grace. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 50:1-6
1 The Mighty One, God, the LORD, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets. 2 From Zion, perfect in beauty, God shines forth. 3 Our God comes and will not be silent; a fire devours before him, and around him a tempest rages. 4 He summons the heavens above, and the earth, that he may judge his people: 5 "Gather to me my consecrated ones, who made a covenant with me by sacrifice." 6 And the heavens proclaim his righteousness, for God himself is judge.
In Context: Psalm 50

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

Recommended Reading:
Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church
by N. T. Wright

June 12 - Living Springs

Overview of: Revelation

Today's Reading:
Revelation 5:1 – 7:17
"The Lamb, the Seals, and the Multitude"

Focus Verses: Revelation 7:13-17
13 Then one of the elders asked me, "These in white robes—who are they, and where did they come from?" 14 I answered, "Sir, you know." And he said, "These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; they have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. 15 Therefore, "they are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will spread his tent over them. 16 Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. 17 For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes."

Insight:
Hope, redemption, and eternal provision are part of John's vision for all who "have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb." God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; he will cover them like a tent of protection, he will see that they never go hungry or thirsty, he will shade them from the scorching heat, and the Lamb will shepherd them to streams of cool refreshing water.

Response and Action:
I will persevere through the challenges, pains, and struggles of life in the hope that God will one day set things right and wipe away all tears from my eyes. My faith is in Christ Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world. I will confess my sins, knowing that he is able to forgive and purify me ("wash my robes") because of his sacrifice on the cross of Calvary.

O God, you are my hope, my protector, and my deliverer. Shield me from the harsh heat of this world and bring me through the struggles of my life. Lead me and keep me. Let your holy word and the presence of your Spirit be like cool water to my soul. My soul thirsts for you and my flesh yearns for you in a dry and weary land where there is no water. God, you are my God, I will seek you earnestly. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 63:1
1 You, God, are my God, earnestly I seek you; I thirst for you, my whole being longs for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water.
In Context: Psalm 63

Proverb for Today: Prov. 12:28
"In the way of righteousness there is life; along that path is immortality."

Recommended Reading:
The Throne, the Lamb & the Dragon: A Reader's Guide to the Book of Revelation
by Paul Spilsbury

June 11 - Seeing My Need

Overview of: Revelation

Today's Reading:
Rev. 3:1 – 4:11
"More Words for Churches"

Focus Verses: Revelation 3:17-20
17 You say, 'I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.' But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. 18 I counsel you to buy from me gold refined in the fire, so you can become rich; and white clothes to wear, so you can cover your shameful nakedness; and salve to put on your eyes, so you can see. 19 Those whom I love I rebuke and discipline. So be earnest, and repent. 20 Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.

Insight:
It is so sad and so dangerous to be blind to one's own need. It is so easy to fall under the delusion of self-sufficiency that comes from comfort and possessions. Jesus is calling all lukewarm and half-hearted Christians to be earnest and repent. He stands at the door of our heart and knocks. If we will be responsive to him, he will come in and live with us. He will guide us to truth and refine us. He will give us the true riches of righteousness.

Response and Action:
I need to recognize my sin and need for Christ. I need to see the pitiful blindness and darkness of being deceived and lulled into half-heartedness by comfort and possessions. I need to hear Jesus' voice and open the door of my heart to receive his full counsel and the refining grace only he can give.

Lord Jesus, forgive me for any lukewarm and halfhearted attitudes you find in me. Give me a responsive heart and tune my ears to hear your voice. Thank you for the promise that you will live with me if I will open the door to you. Lead, teach, transform, shape, and strengthen me, that I might delight in your will and walk in your ways to the glory of God. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Deuteronomy 30:19-20
19 This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live 20 and that you may love the LORD your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. For the LORD is your life, and he will give you many years in the land he swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
In Context: Deuteronomy 30

Proverb for Today: Prov. 11:2
"When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom."

Recommended Reading:
The Voice of Jesus: Discernment, Prayer, and the Witness of the Spirit
by Gordon T. Smith

June 10 - Keys

Overview of: Revelation

Today's Reading:
Revelation 1:1 – 2:29
"Jesus' Message to Churches"

Focus Verses: Revelation 1:17-18
17 When I saw him, I fell at his feet as though dead. Then he placed his right hand on me and said: "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. 18 I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades.

Insight:
In the Apostle John's great vision he sees the resurrected Christ Jesus, the Son of Man, who "has freed us from our sins by his blood" (1:5), and will return again -- "coming with the clouds" (1:7). The sight and sound of the glorified Christ Jesus so overwhelm John that he falls to the ground as a dead man. But Jesus puts his right hand on John saying, "Don't be afraid." Jesus is the beginning and the end. He is the Living One and is alive forever; he has conquered death and holds the keys to death. Jesus holds the keys that open the doors from death to life for all humanity.

Response and Action:
Jesus is alive; forever! He is the Living One who has conquered death. Every thought I have of Jesus will be shaped and celebrated with the amazing truth that he is alive today. He is coming again. He is the beginning and the end. He holds the keys and he will deliver me from death.

O God, help me to walk and live in the truth that Jesus is alive. Fill my heart with hope, and give me peace and confidence as embrace this truth by faith. Give me courage in the face of suffering and hope in the face of death, as I trust in Jesus, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Deut. 32:39-40
39 "See now that I myself am He! There is no god besides me. I put to death and I bring to life, I have wounded and I will heal, and no one can deliver out of my hand. 40 I lift my hand to heaven and declare: As surely as I live forever..."
In Context: Deuteronomy 32

Proverb for Today: Prov. 19:23
"The fear of the LORD leads to life: Then one rests content, untouched by trouble."

Recommended Reading:
Living the Resurrection: The Risen Christ in an Everyday Life
by Eugene H. Peterson

June 9 - Scoffers and Deceivers

Overview of: Jude

Today's Reading:
2 John, 3 John, Jude
"Warnings and Encouragement"

Focus Verses: Jude 1:17-21
17 But, dear friends, remember what the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ foretold. 18 They said to you, "In the last times there will be scoffers who will follow their own ungodly desires." 19 These are the men who divide you, who follow mere natural instincts and do not have the Spirit. 20 But you, dear friends, build yourselves up in your most holy faith and pray in the Holy Spirit. 21 Keep yourselves in God's love as you wait for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to bring you to eternal life.

Insight:
The Apostle Peter warned his readers to be discerning about false teachers and heresy; Jude does the same. In fact, Peter may have been drawing upon Jude in his second letter (compare 2 Peter 2 with Jude 4–18). Jude gives a number of markers for discerning heretical teachers and leaders. These include: a twisting of God's grace that leads to disregard for holy living (v. 4); a refusal to acknowledge Jesus as the only sovereign Lord (v. 4); a selfish pattern of putting themselves first (v. 12); boastful arrogance (v. 16); and being divisive and opposing the unity of the Spirit (v. 19).

Response and Action:
I need to recognize godly teaching and leadership. It is essential for the life and mission of my church family that our leaders follow the Lord Jesus Christ; he alone is able to keep us from falling. In order to live by the truth, I will build myself up in the true Christian faith; I will pray and look to the Holy Spirit for guidance and integrity; and I will look to the Scriptures and the teachings of the Apostles for direction and doctrine. In my Christian community, I will oppose heretical teaching and leadership, yet be merciful and redemptive toward others as I endeavor to be a voice for truth and sound doctrine.

O God, help me to know and live by the truth. Help me to be a student of the Scriptures. Help me to follow Jesus with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. By the power and grace of your Holy Spirit, give me the honesty and integrity to recognize your will and your ways. Deliver me from pride, selfishness, and unholiness. Grant me the faith and the perseverance of Christ Jesus, who is able to keep me from falling and present me without fault before your throne with great joy. To the only God our Savior be glory, majesty, power and authority, through Jesus Christ our Lord, before all ages, now and forevermore! Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Ezekiel 34:10-11
10 This is what the Sovereign LORD says: I am against the shepherds and will hold them accountable for my flock. I will remove them from tending the flock so that the shepherds can no longer feed themselves. I will rescue my flock from their mouths, and it will no longer be food for them. 11 'For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search for my sheep and look after them.'
In Context: Ezekiel 34

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

Recommended Reading:
Shepherds After My Own Heart: Pastoral Traditions And Leadership in the Bible
by Timothy S. Laniak

June 8 - Christ, Savior, Son

Overview of: 1 John

Today's Reading:
1 John 4:1 – 5:21
"Truth, Love, and Faith"

Focus Verses: 1 John 4:1-3; 14-15
1 Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. 2 This is how you can recognize the Spirit of God: Every spirit that acknowledges that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God, 3 but every spirit that does not acknowledge Jesus is not from God. This is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and even now is already in the world. - - - 14 And we have seen and testify that the Father has sent his Son to be the Savior of the world. 15 If anyone acknowledges that Jesus is the Son of God, God lives in him and he in God.

Insight:
Just as we saw warnings from Peter and Jude regarding faith and sound doctrine, we now see the Apostle John telling Christians to be careful to not believe just anyone. He urged them to "test the spirits" and to remember that there were many false teachers in the world.

John gave them some important truths about Jesus to keep in mind as they exercised discernment. First, sound doctrine acknowledges that Jesus is from God. Secondly, sound doctrine acknowledges that Jesus is God incarnate--actually human, actually flesh and blood. Third, sound doctrine acknowledges that Jesus is actually the Son of God--actually divine.

Response and Action:
I need to be careful not to believe just anyone who claims to be teaching from the Bible or claims to be a “Christian” teacher. I need to study the Bible carefully for myself in order to have first-hand knowledge of the teachings of Jesus and the Apostles. I will reject teaching that fails to recognize the importance of the incarnation and the humanity of Jesus. I will reject teaching that fails to acknowledge the deity of Jesus. I believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, who for us and for our salvation came down from heaven and by the power of the Holy Spirit became incarnate from the virgin Mary.

O God, how can a person keep his way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Show me your ways, O Lord. Guide me in your truth, and teach me, for you are God my savior, and my hope is in you all day long. I pray through Jesus, the son of God and the son of man, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God today and for all eternity. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Prov. 30:4
4 Who has gone up to heaven and come down? Who has gathered up the wind in the hollow of his hands? Who has wrapped up the waters in his cloak? Who has established all the ends of the earth? What is his name, and the name of his son? Tell me if you know!
In Context: Proverbs 30

Proverb for Today: Prov. 8:5
"You who are simple, gain prudence; you who are foolish, gain understanding."

Recommended Reading:
Who Was Jesus?
by Scot McKnight

Reading Schedule for June 8 - 13

June 8 - 1 John 4:1 – 5:21
June 9 - 2 John, 3 John, Jude
June 10 - Rev. 1:1 – 2:29
June 11 - Rev. 3:1 – 4:11
June 12 - Rev. 5:1 – 7:17
June 13 - Rev. 8:1 – 11:19



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 by clicking the link in the right column.

June 6 - Walking in Light

Overview of: 1 John

Today's Reading:
1 John 1:1 – 3:24
"Light, Truth, and Community"

Focus Verses: 1 John 1:6-10
6 If we claim to have fellowship with him yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live by the truth. 7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. 9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. 10 If we claim we have not sinned, we make him out to be a liar and his word has no place in our lives.

Insight:
Seeing ourselves for who we are is an important part of seeing God for who he truly is. God is light; in him there is no darkness. Recognizing my sin and confessing it to God is essential to receiving and experiencing the grace of God's forgiveness and restoration. Not only is God faithful to forgive, he is able to purify and transform me. Confession and repentance make it possible to be reconciled to God and to walk in fellowship with others.

Response and Action:
I need to recognize my sin and ask God for forgiveness and healing. I cannot walk in fellowship with God and with others if I am blind to my own need for forgiveness. Closing myself off from forgiveness destroys my relationship with God and with others.

I will not be able to hear God's word of forgiveness for me unless I am willing to speak it with him. It is not simply a word to be heard; it is to be learned and spoken with him. Realizing I need to hear the word of forgiveness comes first. Truly hearing that word comes next. The irresistible impulse to speak it along with him naturally follows.

O God, have mercy upon me, a sinner. Forgive me of the wrongs I have committed, and give me a heart that is ready, willing, and able to forgive those who have wronged me. Thank you for your faithfulness to heal and restore. Through the transforming grace and power of Christ, help me to be an agent of your faithfulness and grace. Help me to walk in the light, as Christ Jesus is in the light. Help me to walk in the light with others who are looking to you for healing and forgiveness. May our fellowship be a living testimony of your saving grace. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 51:10-13
10 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. 11 Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. 12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. 13 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you.
In Context: Psalm 51

Proverb for Today: Prov. 6:2-3
"...if you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then 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!"

Recommended Reading:
The Only Necessary Thing: Living a Prayerful Life
Chapter 11: Forgiveness
by Henri Nouwen

June 5 - Pay Attention

Overview of: 2 Peter

Today's Reading:
2 Pet. 1:1 – 3:18
"Calling, Scripture, and Truth"

Focus Verses: 2 Peter 1:19-21
19 And we have the word of the prophets made more certain, and you will do well to pay attention to it, as to a light shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star rises in your hearts. 20 Above all, you must understand that no prophecy of Scripture came about by the prophet's own interpretation. 21 For prophecy never had its origin in the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.

Insight:
Peter stresses to his readers that the testimony of the Apostles was based on eyewitness experience, not clever stories they invented (v.16). They were with Jesus on the mount of transfiguration and heard God's voice commend him (v.17-18). What the prophets of old had spoken was now made certain through Christ Jesus. Prophecy and scripture, Peter says, are not merely ideas and interpretations that originate in the minds of men. Rather, Scripture is the result of men speaking from God, being moved and carried along by God's Spirit.

Response and Action:
I need to consider the claims of Scripture carefully. The idea that Scripture is nothing more than the ideas, opinions, and beliefs of humans runs contrary to what the Apostle Peter says here. I believe the Bible is reliable and inspired by God. I will read it and apply it to my life in the faith that it is from God, useful, and truthful.

O God, thank you for your written word. I will pay attention to it, as a light shining in the darkness. You word is a light for my path and a lamp to my feet. I seek you, Lord, with all my heart; don't let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Help me to receive your word so completely that my life becomes a reflection of your word and a testimony to your truth. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 119
9 How can a young man keep his way pure? By living according to your word. 10 I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands.
In Context: Psalm 119

Proverb for Today: Prov. 5:1-2
"My son, pay attention to my wisdom, listen well to my words of insight, that you may maintain discretion and your lips may preserve knowledge."

Recommended Reading:
Can I Trust the Bible?
by Darrell Bock

June 4 - Painful Trials

Overview of: 1 Peter

Today's Reading:
1 Peter 4:1 – 5:14
"Life, Suffering, and Elders"

Focus Verses: 1 Peter 4:12-16
12 Dear friends, do not be surprised at the painful trial you are suffering, as though something strange were happening to you. 13 But rejoice that you participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is revealed. 14 If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the Spirit of glory and of God rests on you. 15 If you suffer, it should not be as a murderer or thief or any other kind of criminal, or even as a meddler. 16 However, if you suffer as a Christian, do not be ashamed, but praise God that you bear that name.

Insight:
Christians are not exempt from suffering. We live in a sin-sick world where suffering is the norm, so we should not be surprised when we experience it. A Christ-centered, biblical faith is very realistic about the reality of sin and suffering. We can bring suffering onto ourselves by our participation in sinful actions. We can also suffer for participating in Christ's call to oppose and resist sin in ourselves and in the world. Peter encourages followers of Jesus to remember that Christ himself suffered, and that God will bless and sustain us when we suffer with Him.

Response and Action:
I will be realistic about suffering and accept the fact that I am more likely to experience suffering than escape it. Because I understand that suffering is the result of sin in the world, I will avoid sinful choices and actions. I don't want to bring suffering upon myself, or others. I will follow Jesus' example and consider how he remained faithful to God while enduring suffering. I will try to resist, oppose, and undo sin in the world as an act of worship to God, and if I suffer for doing so, I will consider it a blessing.

O God, give me the grace and strength to face suffering. Help me to throw off the sins that entangle me, that I might not cause suffering for others, and that I might avoid needless suffering in my own life. Help all those who believe and follow Christ to stand firm against sin in the world, even if when they suffer for doing so. Sustain us and encourage us by your grace and Holy Spirit. Thank you for Jesus, who suffered for my sake and for my salvation. Thank you that one day you will set all things to rights and wipe away all tears from our eyes. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 94:18-19
18 When I said, "My foot is slipping," your unfailing love, LORD, supported me. 19 When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.
In Context: Psalm 94

Proverb for Today: Prov. 4:25-26
"Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. Give careful thought to the paths for your feet and be steadfast in all your ways."

Recommended Reading:
Surprised by Hope: Rethinking Heaven, the Resurrection, and the Mission of the Church
by N. T. Wright

June 3 - Out of Darkness

Overview of: 1 Peter

Today's Reading:
1 Pet. 1:1 – 3:25
"Holiness and Hope"

Focus Verses: 1 Peter 2:9-10
9 But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. 10 Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.

Insight:
Christians believe Jesus is the Christ, the Redeemer, God's living stone upon which we are to build our lives. We belong to God and are part of a people that exists by God's choice. Just as the nation of Israel existed by God's choice for God's purposes, we have been called to a holy purpose: "to declare the praises of him who called us out of darkness into his wonderful light."

Our lives are to be living declarations of praise and truth and light as we turn away from sin, live with integrity, and do good deeds (v. 9-10). In every arena of life, from dealing with civil authorities (v.13-14) to oppressive socio-economic realities (v.18-21), Christ Jesus must be the model and foundation for all our actions and reactions.

Response and Action:
As a believer and follower of Jesus, I am called to declare the praises of God in my daily life. I will strive to live with integrity, to put away sinful desires, and to do good deeds. In every situation and circumstance, I need to live out my faith in Jesus. I need to follow Christ's example. I want to walk in his steps with complete trust in God, no deceit or insults in my mouth, and responding to injustice without retaliation or threats.

O God, help me to put absolute faith in Jesus and to build my life upon him. Help me, by your Spirit, to follow his example and to live a life that declares your praises. Give me the wisdom to navigate my way in this world as I face injustice, political and civic issues, and the social issues of race, economics, language, and religious beliefs. Help me to keep my eyes on Jesus and base all my words and deeds upon the example he has given me. Help me to keep my way pure as I make every effort to know your word and live accordingly. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Deuteronomy 26:18-19
18 And the LORD has declared this day that you are his people, his treasured possession as he promised, and that you are to keep all his commands. 19 He has declared that he will set you in praise, fame and honor high above all the nations he has made and that you will be a people holy to the LORD your God, as he promised.
In Context: Deut. 26:16-19

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 submit to him, and he will make your paths straight."

Recommended Reading:
The Pursuit of Holiness
by Jerry Bridges

June 2 - Tongue Twister

Overview of: James

Today's Reading:
James 3:1 – 5:20
"The Tongue, Tomorrow, and Truth"

Focus Verses: James 3:9-12
9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

Insight:
An undisciplined tongue is inconsistent with following Christ and honoring God. What we say is very important. If hurtful and careless things flow from our mouths, the praise we offer God may be nothing more than lip service. A mouth that says sweet things to God should not say bitter things to those God has created and loved. Being careful to say helpful, loving, and constructive words to others may be the best way to praise God with our mouths.

Response and Action:
I need to recognize the importance of my words and the need to choose them wisely. I need to see the connection between my words to people and my words to God. I must avoid a mental disconnect that allows me to offer words of praise to God, but be careless or hurtful in my words to people. I will ask God for the grace and guidance I need as I make every effort to be disciplined and helpful in my speech. I will strive to honor God in the way I speak to others, not just in the words I say to God.

Dear Lord, help me to be careful about my words. Grant me the grace to be disciplined in my speech. Forgive me for the times I am thoughtless or hurtful with my mouth. Teach me to be wise in my speech, that my words would honor you as they help and bless others. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 17:1-3
1 Hear me, LORD, my plea is just; listen to my cry. Hear my prayer—it does not rise from deceitful lips. 2 Let my vindication come from you; may your eyes see what is right. 3 Though you probe my heart, though you examine me at night and test me, you will find that I have planned no evil; my mouth has not transgressed.
In Context: Psalm 17

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

Recommended Reading:
The Jesus Creed: Loving God, Loving Others
by Scot McKnight

June 1 - Listen

Overview of: James

Today's Reading:
James 1:1 – 2:26
"Practical Instructions"

Focus Verses: James 1:19-21
19 My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, 20 for man's anger does not bring about the righteous life that God desires. 21 Therefore, get rid of all moral filth and the evil that is so prevalent and humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save you.

Insight:
I've heard it said that God gave us two ears and one mouth, and that we should use them proportionately. That advice seems to go along pretty well with James' instruction. James suggests that being quick to listen and slow to speak would help us be slower to get angry. Anger--at least the kind of anger we have when we don't listen and shoot off our mouths--is contrary to the righteous life God desires for us and from us. We need to be serious about turning away from sin, and humble and receptive toward God's word.

Response and Action:
I want to be quick to listen and slow to speak. I need to become a better listener. I need to listen to God's leading through his word. I need to listen to what others saying and be careful to keep my responses and my attitudes in check. Careless anger is inconsistent with seeking God and trying to please him. I will guard against it.

O God, make me an instrument of your peace. Help me to become a good listener and to use words with careful measure. Give me the grace to relate to others in loving and healthy ways. Give me a mouth that blesses and encourages. Teach me to delight in your will and to walk in your ways to the glory of your name. I pray through Christ Jesus my Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 66:16
16 Come and listen, all you who fear God; let me tell you what he has done for me.
In Context: Psalm 66

Proverb for Today: Prov. 4:10
"Listen, my son, accept what I say, and the years of your life will be many."

Recommended Reading:
Listening Is an Act of Love: A Celebration of American Life from the StoryCorps Project
by Dave Isay