September 8 - Banished

Today's Readings:
NT - Luke 1:26-38 / Acts 1:12-26
OT - Psalms 2 / Genesis 3-4

Focus Verses: Gen. 3:23-24
23 So the LORD God banished him from the Garden of Eden to work the ground from which he had been taken. 24 After he drove the man out, he placed on the east side of the Garden of Eden cherubim and a flaming sword flashing back and forth to guard the way to the tree of life.

Insight:
This short passage is absolutely packed with important things to think about. How did sin begin? What are the consequences of sin? What is the nature of temptation? What is the hope of redemption?

It's clear that sin damaged humankind's relationship with God. Instead of enjoying God's presence in the cool of the garden, and being glad to hear his voice, Adam and Eve felt naked and afraid and hid from him. Though God demonstrated care for them and gave them garments to wear, he banished them from the Garden forever, told them how terribly difficult their lives would be apart from him, and how they would eventually die.

But even in this sad story of humanity's fall, there is a hint of hope and redemption. In God's curse of the serpent, we see the promise that one day a descendant of Eve would crush the serpent's head. Christians believe that promise was fulfilled in Jesus Christ as he conquered death and rose from the grave and broke the curse of sin.

Response & Action:
I do not want to disobey God or disregard his word. I want to be careful to not be deceived by anything or anyone who distorts what God has said. I will guard against questioning God's truthfulness or faithfulness. I want to avoid the consequences of sin. I am thankful that Jesus has overcome sin and death and gives me hope and purpose for life.

O God, help me to turn away from what is wrong and help me to do what is right. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. Grant me the wisdom and the will to guard my heart, feed my spirit, and care for my body. Help me to put my trust in you and to have faith in your goodness and saving grace toward me. Amen

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

September. 7 - A Book Worth Reading

Today's Readings:
NT - Luke 1:1-25 / Acts 1:1-11
OT - Psalms 1 / Genesis 1-2

Focus Verses: Acts 1:1-5
1 In my former book, Theophilus, I wrote about all that Jesus began to do and to teach 2 until the day he was taken up to heaven, after giving instructions through the Holy Spirit to the apostles he had chosen. 3 After his suffering, he showed himself to these men and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God. 4 On one occasion, while he was eating with them, he gave them this command: "Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father promised, which you have heard me speak about. 5 For John baptized with water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit."

Insight:
In just a few words of introduction, Luke says some very big things as he begins his account of the early church. Acts begins where The Gospel of Luke left off. Presumably, it was written with the same care and attention to detail as his first book (see Luke 1:1-4). Secondly, Luke tells us that Jesus' instruction to the apostles was inspired by God. Next, he explains that the apostles were chosen by Jesus. He then goes on to say that Jesus spent significant time with these apostles after his resurrection—40 days of proofs and teaching. Finally, Luke tells us that Jesus instructed the apostles to remain in Jerusalem. Their ministry would begin there when they received the gift of the Holy Spirit from God.

Response & Action:
Luke's account of these events is carefully assembled and is written with eyewitness perspective. The scriptures and practices of the early church are founded on the teachings of the apostles, through Jesus, and through the Holy Spirit. The authority of scripture and of the apostles is from the risen Christ.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son. He has spoken through the prophets. I accept the authority of Jesus the Christ, the teaching of his apostles, and the scriptures. 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. Amen.

Resources:
Acts for Everyone, Part 1
by N. T. Wright
Acts for Everyone, Part 2
by N. T. Wright

Reading Schedule for September 7 - 12

Romans 15:4
"For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

Schedule and Tips
2009-10 Reading Schedule
Tips for Daily Bible Readers

September 7 -
Luke 1:1-25 / Acts 1:1-11
Psalms 1 / Genesis 1-2

September 8 -
Luke1:26-38 / Acts 1:12-26
Psalms 2 / Genesis 3-4

September 9 -
Luke1:39-56 / Acts 2:1-21
Psalms 3 / Genesis 5-8

September 10 -
Luke1:57-66 / Acts 2:22-47
Psalms 4 / Genesis 9-11

September 11 -
Luke 1:67-80 / Acts 3
Psalms 5 / Genesis 12-14

September 12 -
Luke 2:1-20 / Acts 4:1-22
Psalms 6 / Genesis 15-17

Sept. 5 - A Shining Light

The new Useful Breath Reading Schedule begins on Monday, September 7. You can get through the entire Bible by reading six days each week. Daily readings include: OT History & Prophets / OT Poetry / NT Gospel / NT Acts & Letters.

2009-10 UB Reading Schedule (PDF)

Overview of: Bible FAQs

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 119:105
"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path."
In Context: Psalm 119

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

September 4 - Penetrating Word

The new Useful Breath Reading Schedule begins on Monday, September 7. You can get through the entire Bible by reading six days each week. Daily readings include: OT History & Prophets / OT Poetry / NT Gospel / NT Acts & Letters.
2009-10 Useful Breath Reading Schedule (PDF)

Overview of: Bible FAQs

Today's Reading:
Hebrews 4:1 - 14

Focus Verses: Hebrews 4:12-13
12 For the word of God is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. 13 Nothing in all creation is hidden from God's sight. Everything is uncovered and laid bare before the eyes of him to whom we must give account.

Insight:
Nothing is hidden from God. God's word is alive and active; his truth is penetrating and able to cut to the heart of everything in creation. Even our thoughts and attitudes are an open book to God. God's truth must be heeded because we are all accountable to him.

Response and Action:
I recognize that God knows me better than I know myself. I will look to his word for guidance in my life. His word is able to help me see my own motives and attitudes. I will meditate on God's word and hide it in my heart. I will let the truth of God's word shape and direct me.

Almighty God, before you my heart is open, all my desires are known, and none of my secrets are hidden. Cleanse the thoughts of my heart by the power of your Holy Spirit. Guide me and teach me through your word. Help me to love you with my whole heart, and to live in your truth, that I might bring you glory. Amen.

Resources:
Life with God: Reading the Bible for Spiritual Transformation
by Richard Foster

Sept. 3 - Scripture is Useful

We'll begin the 2009-10 reading schedule on Monday, September 7. The new schedule is now available as a downloadable pdf.

Overview of: Bible FAQs

Today's Reading:
2Tim. 3:1 – 4:22
"Scripture for Life"

Focus Verses: 2 Tim. 3:12-17
12 In fact, everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted, 13 while evil men and impostors will go from bad to worse, deceiving and being deceived. 14 But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, 15 and how from infancy you have known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. 16 All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, 17 so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Insight:
Some of the promises of Scripture don't get quoted as often as others. Verse 12 is one of those promises: "Everyone who wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." Doing the right thing is likely to lead to difficult circumstances. Jesus faced persecution, so it stands to reason we should not be surprised to encounter persecution as we follow in his steps.

The Scriptures are able to give us wisdom for life and salvation. The Scriptures are useful to us because they are alive with the very breath of God's truth and wisdom. The teaching, rebuke, correction, and training we receive from Scripture equips us for every good work and every circumstance.

Response and Action:
I need to expect some measure of hardship and suffering as I follow Jesus. I need God's wisdom and truth to live a righteous life. I will look to the Scriptures as a source of God's wisdom and truth. I will read and study God's word with diligence and a desire to be taught, rebuked, corrected, and trained.

O God, how can I keep my way pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. Help me to hide your word in my heart that I might not sin against you. Give me wisdom and understanding as I commit myself to the study of Scripture. Use the Scriptures to shape and guide me, O Lord, that I might honor and serve you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Amen.

Old Testament for Today: Psalm 19:7-8
7 The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. 8 The precepts of the LORD are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant, giving light to the eyes.
In Context: Psalm 19

Recommended Reading:
How to Read the Bible for All It's Worth
by Gordon D. Fee

Sept. 2 - The Theme of My Song

We'll begin the 2009-10 reading schedule on Monday, September 7. The new schedule will soon be available as a downloadable pdf.

Overview of: Bible FAQs

Today's Reading:
Psalm 119:33 - 56

Focus Verses: Psalm 119:50-55
50 My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life. 51 The arrogant mock me without restraint, but I do not turn from your law. 52 I remember your ancient laws, O LORD, and I find comfort in them. 53 Indignation grips me because of the wicked, who have forsaken your law. 54 Your decrees are the theme of my song wherever I lodge. 55 In the night I remember your name, O LORD, and I will keep your law.

Insight:
The psalmist found God's Word to be a source of encouragement and hope in every circumstance, place, or time. In suffering, God's promises preserved and sustained him. In the face of mocking and wickedness, God's ancient laws gave comfort and direction. Whether at home or traveling, God's decrees were like a song in his heart. Night or day, the Word filled his thoughts and brought the Lord's name to mind.

Response and Action:
Reading and meditating on God's Word makes me ready to face every situation. It makes me able to remember who God is, what he has commanded, and what he has promised. No matter what my circumstance, no matter where I am, no matter what time of day it is, God's Word will sustain me, direct me, put a song in my heart, and bring to mind thoughts of God and his goodness.

O God, I long for your Word. Help me to hide it in my heart that it might sustain and direct me everyday, everywhere, and in every circumstance. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 27:17
"As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."

Recommended Resource:
Can I Trust the Bible?
by Darrell L. Bock

Sept. 1 - How to Live

We'll begin the 2009-10 reading schedule on Monday, September 7. The new schedule will soon be available as a downloadable pdf.

Overview of: Bible FAQs

Today's Reading:
Psalm 119:1-16
"Scripture Psalm"

Focus Verses: Psalm 119:9-11
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. 11 I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.

Insight:
God's Word is useful for knowing God's will and for learning how to live in purity and truth. It is important to have a desire to know God and his will. This whole-hearted desire motivates the believer to read, apply, study, know, and memorize Scripture.

Response and Action:
If I want to know God and his will for my life, I need to spend time in the Bible. I will seek him with my whole heart and commit myself to walking in the light of his truth. I will make time every day to read the Scripture, to prayerfully consider how it applies to my life, and to be as responsive to it as I can be.

O God, thank you for the Bible. Open my mind to understand what it says. Make my heart soft and ready to receive it. Give me the wisdom and the will to obey and respond to it. Show me your ways, O Lord, guide me in your truth and lead me for you are God, my savior, and my hope is in you all day long. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 25:28
"Like a city whose walls are broken down is a man who lacks self-control."

Recommended Reading:
Transforming Bible Study: Understanding Scripture Like You've Never Read It Before
by Bob Grahmann

August 31 - Honey

We'll begin the 2009-10 reading schedule on Monday, September 7. The new schedule will soon be available as a downloadable pdf. Look for that this week.

If you were a little behind on the 2008-09 reading plan, you can use this week to catch up. Every day this week, I'll be posting a Bible passage that relates to the importance of spending time in God's Word.

Overview of: Bible FAQs

Today's Reading:
Psalm 119:81 - 104
"Love & Longing for the Word"

Focus Verses: Psalm 119:97, 103-104
97 Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long. - - - 103 How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! 104 I gain understanding from your precepts; therefore I hate every wrong path.

Insight:
Bible reading should not be approached as a mere duty or study assignment. The psalmist loved the Scriptures and savored them like honey. When something is sweet and desirable it is approached as a joy and privilege. Those who delight in the richness of the Word gain understanding for life and find every right path.

Response and Action:
I am thankful for the Bible and I read it because I want to! I want to enjoy and delight in the precious gift of God's Word. So often Bible reading is talked about in terms of duty and discipline, but I think about it in terms of love and longing for truth. I cannot think of anything sweeter than finding my way in life and growing in wisdom.

O God, thank you for the sweetness and goodness of your Word. Help me to delight in it each day. Lead me and bless me as I do. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 30:5
"Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him."

Recommended Resource:
Zondervan NIV Study Bible

Reading Schedule for Aug. 31 - Sept. 5

On Saturday, August 29, we completed the 2008-09 reading schedule. We'll begin the 2009-10 reading schedule on Monday, September 7. The new schedule will soon be available as a downloadable pdf. Look for that next week.

If you were a little behind in your reading, you can use this week to catch up. Every day this week, I'll also post a Bible passage that relates to the importance of spending time in God's Word.

I hope you will join me and Useful Breath for another year of daily Bible reading.

August 29 - Too Much and Too Little

Overview of: Proverbs

Today's Reading:
Proverbs 28 - 31

Focus Verses: Proverbs 30:7-9
7 "Two things I ask of you, O LORD; do not refuse me before I die: 8 Keep falsehood and lies far from me; give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. 9 Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, 'Who is the LORD ?' Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonor the name of my God.

Insight:
Both poverty and riches test character and contentment. Each presents unique challenges and temptations. Poverty can lead to theft and dishonesty. Riches can lead to pride and disregard for God. A prayerful humility and awareness of these pitfalls is essential to wise living. Those who are wise desire to serve and honor God regardless of the circumstances of life.

Response and Action:
I want to live with commitment to integrity and a will to honor God. I want to follow Christ and depend upon God's provision and guidance regardless of my circumstances. I will seek God above all else and ask for his protection and provision. I will be on guard against the temptations of both poverty and plenty. I will ask God for the wisdom and character I need to honor him in any circumstance.

O God, help me to turn away from what is wrong and to do what is right. Lead me away from temptation and deliver me from evil. Provide for my needs and protect me from discouragement. Help me to be humble and reverent in times of plenty. Help me to be honest and faithful in times of want. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Philippians 4:12-13
12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do everything through him who gives me strength.
In Context: Philippians 4:10-20

Recommended Reading:
Neither Poverty Nor Riches: A Biblical Theology of Possessions
by Craig L. Blomberg

August 28 - Wise toward Folly

Overview of: Proverbs

Today's Reading:
Proverbs 24 – 27

Focus Verses: Proverbs 26:4-5
4 Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will be like him yourself. 5 Answer a fool according to his folly, or he will be wise in his own eyes.

Insight:
It does no good to confront foolish behavior with foolish behavior. Foolish behavior, however, cannot be ignored; it must be addressed in appropriate and mature ways. Failure to confront foolishness will result in foolish people assuming that their foolish ways are paying off. Knowing when and how to confront foolishness is something a wise person learns to do well.

Response and Action:
I must be careful to respond appropriately to the foolishness and immaturity I see in others. I must deal with it and confront it in a mature, measured, thoughtful, loving, and godly way. I must guard against knee-jerk reactions that are as wrong-headed and useless as the foolishness I'm confronting. Patience, forbearance, and Christian concern should guide my response toward the foolish choices, words, and deeds of others.

O God, give me the grace and wisdom I need to confront foolishness in others with compassion and care. Give me the courage to speak and act with redemptive love. Give me the integrity and humility to confront the foolishness I see in myself before I confront the sin and frailty of others. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Matthew 7:3-5
3 "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? 4 How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? 5 You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.
In Context: Matthew 7:1-6

Recommended Reading:
Making Judgments Without Being Judgmental: Nurturing a Clear Mind and a Generous Heart
by Terry D. Cooper

August 27 - Wisdom Cares

Overview of: Proverbs

Today's Reading:
Proverbs 20-23

Focus Verses:
Proverbs 21:13, 22:9, 16
21:13 If a man shuts his ears to the cry of the poor, he too will cry out and not be answered. 22:9 A generous man will himself be blessed, for he shares his food with the poor. 22:16 He who oppresses the poor to increase his wealth and he who gives gifts to the rich—both come to poverty.

Insight:
Reverence for God is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). A humble and attentive attitude toward God is the starting point for the knowledge, discipline, and precepts that lead to wisdom. Wisdom's root is in relationship with God, and wisdom flowers in our relationships toward others. Humility before God results in friendship and redemptive behavior toward others. One of the most important marks of wisdom is a concern and care for the poor and oppressed. Disregard for the hungry, blindness toward injustice, and exploitation of the needy are all indications of a foolish and faithless way of life.

Response and Action:
I must be humble and reverent before God if I want to mature in Christ and grow in wisdom. True wisdom will manifest itself in generosity, love, and justice. I must open my eyes to the needs of the poor. I must oppose injustice. I must share with those who are hungry. I must guard against the exploitation and dehumanization of those who are in need. This has to be more than a personal belief or philosophical perspective; I have to live it out in practical and tangible ways. I will look for ways to connect and share and serve. I will work to help my church develop strategies for meeting needs in our community and world.

O God, I want my love and reverence for you to result in care and blessing for others. I want to be an instrument of your grace and loving care. Deliver me from selfishness and indifference. Open my eyes to needs. Please help me find meaningful and practical ways to help and share with others. Please give me a generous spirit and open hands. Make your truth and wisdom flower in my life and bear the Jesus-shaped fruit of kindness and compassion. Amen.

New Testament for Today: 1 John 3:16-18
16 This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers. 17 If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? 18 Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth.
In Context: 1 John 3

Recommended Reading:
Just Courage: God's Great Expedition for the Restless Christian
by Gary A. Haugen

August 26 - Owning Up

Overview of: Proverbs

Today's Reading:
Proverbs 15 - 19

Focus Verses: Proverbs 19:2-3
2 It is not good to have zeal without knowledge, nor to be hasty and miss the way. 3 A man's own folly ruins his life, yet his heart rages against the LORD.

Insight:
Proverbs is a book about wisdom. It's also a book about foolishness. It explains the way of the wise, and it also describes the way of fools. In today's reading alone, the way of becoming a fool is exposed as: spurning discipline, failing to listen, dishonoring parents, hating correction, telling lies, manipulating others, starting fights, loving quarrels, gushing careless words, being arrogant, despising the poor, condemning the innocent, acquitting the guilty, being lazy and selfish, disregarding instruction, losing your temper, and failing to seek God's counsel.

To miss the way of wisdom and to become a fool is easy if we have zeal without knowledge. It is foolish to be so excited about our own ideas and ambitions that we fail to seek God's counsel and guidance. We ruin our lives when we follow our own selfish desires and make our own stupid mistakes. And then, we increase our folly if we blame God for the mess we're in.

Wise people take ownership of their mistakes and learn from them. Fools blame others and God. Wise people see the ways they have brought trouble upon themselves. Fools whine in denial and shake their fists at God.

Response and Action:
I do not want to be a fool or to be blind to my own sin and stupidity. I will take responsibility for my mistakes. Instead of blaming God for my problems, I will ask God to show me the error of my ways. I will humble myself, listen, accept correction, follow instruction, honor those who are older and wiser, avoid laziness and selfishness, tell the truth, be gracious toward others, love integrity more than comfort, and seek to honor God in word, thought, and deed.

O God, forgive me for the times I blame you for my problems. Forgive me for the ways I rationalize my sin and show disregard for your counsel. Forgive me for the ways I seek comfort and possessions instead of seeking truth and righteousness. Give me the wisdom and the will to love truth, to walk in your ways, and to live with integrity. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Give me the courage and honesty to recognize my own ignorance and weakness. Give me the desire and wisdom to take hold of your perfect knowledge and strength. Through Christ, I pray. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Romans 1:29-32
29 They have become filled with every kind of wickedness, evil, greed and depravity. They are full of envy, murder, strife, deceit and malice. They are gossips, 30 slanderers, God-haters, insolent, arrogant and boastful; they invent ways of doing evil; they disobey their parents; 31 they are senseless, faithless, heartless, ruthless. 32 Although they know God's righteous decree that those who do such things deserve death, they not only continue to do these very things but also approve of those who practice them.
In Context: Romans 1:18 - 2:16

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

August 25 - Nourishing Words

Overview of: Proverbs

Today's Reading:
Proverbs 10 - 14

Focus Verses: Proverbs 10:18-21
18 He who conceals his hatred has lying lips, and whoever spreads slander is a fool. 19 When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. 20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. 21 The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment.

Insight:
Understanding the importance and power of the things we say is essential to wise living. There are many verses in Proverbs that address the motives, the attitudes, the care, the restraint, and the choice of our words. Lies and slander destroy. Instead of talking something to death, it sometimes makes more sense to just keep silent. A few carefully chosen words are more precious than silver, but careless words that spring from a wicked attitude are worthless. It's deadly to speak without exercising good judgment, but wise words from a righteous perspective are nourishing and life-giving for all who hear them.

Response and Action:
I want to be careful about the way I use my mouth. Failure to exercise care and restraint can be very damaging to others and to myself. Thoughtfully choosing my words can be helpful and enriching to others. I will judge what to say, how to say it, and when to say it by the righteous example of Christ and the sound counsel of Scripture. I will seek wisdom and exercise care in the things I say, understanding that my mouth has the power to cause great harm or great good.

O God, may the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart bring honor to you. Give me the wisdom and the will to guard my heart and to control my tongue. Give me the heart and the discernment to speak life in a dying world. Help me to bless, and not curse. Help me to nourish, and not injure. Help me to speak truth and encouragement, and not slander. Help me to speak words of life from a Jesus-shaped heart as I seek him and his righteousness. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Ephesians 4:29
29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
In Context: Ephesians 4:17-5:21

Recommended Reading:
How to Read Proverbs
by Tremper Longman

August 24 - Wisdom and Folly

Overview of: Proverbs

Today's Reading:
Proverbs 7 - 9

Focus Verses: Proverbs 7:21-23
21 With persuasive words she led him astray; she seduced him with her smooth talk. 22 All at once he followed her like an ox going to the slaughter, like a deer stepping into a noose 23 till an arrow pierces his liver, like a bird darting into a snare, little knowing it will cost him his life.

Insight:
Wisdom is personified as a virtuous woman who offers instruction, truth, and knowledge. Folly is also personified as a woman, but in contrast to wisdom she is a lying temptress who persuades with empty promises of pleasure and instant gratification. Wisdom calls out, "Let all who are feeble minded come in here and find understanding. Leave your foolish ways behind and live!" Folly calls out, "Stolen water is sweet. Let's have a good time. If it feels good, do it." Wisdom offers life. Folly offers death.

No one has to try to be foolish. It doesn't take any effort at all. In fact, the best way to become a fool is to just put aside the whole idea of effort and intention. Just go with your feelings. Just do whatever is easy and within reach.

Becoming wise, however, requires effort. It is necessary to heed warnings and seek out truth. It requires discipline, intention, the drive to shake off laziness, and the ability to rise above feelings. Most of all, it requires the grace and truth of God. Without God's help and guidance, wisdom is beyond our reach. Thankfully, God is reaching out to us and has made wisdom available to us through the Scriptures, his Son, his Spirit, and his people--the Church.

Response and Action:
I am thankful that Wisdom is calling out to me. I am thankful that God in his grace and mercy has revealed himself through Christ Jesus. I want to be responsive to the gift of wisdom and truth God has extended to me. I will listen to his Word, and I will heed the warnings he gives. I will cling to the promises he has made, and I will walk in the ways he has instructed me to go. I will be on guard against temptations and lies--within and without--that would turn me away from wisdom.

O God, help me to live for you and through you. Help me to turn away from what is wrong and do what is right. Help me to love you with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength. Grant me the wisdom and the will to guard my heart, to feed my spirit, to stimulate my mind, and care for my body. Be faithful to me and do not let me be tempted beyond what I can bear, and when I am tempted, give me strength to stand and show me the ways of escape. Help me to leave my foolish ways and to walk in the truth. Amen.

New Testament for Today: 1 Corinthians 10:13
13 No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
In Context: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

Recommended Reading:
How to Read Proverbs
by Tremper Longman

Reading Schedule for August 24 - 29

August 24 - Prov. 7 – 9
August 25 - Prov. 10 – 14
August 26 - Prov. 15 – 19
August 27 - Prov. 20 – 23
August 28 - Prov. 24 – 27
August 29 - Prov. 28 - 31




You're invited to read through the Bible with the Useful Breath Blog. 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.

August 22 - Ever Brighter

Overview of: Proverbs

Today's Reading:
Proverbs 4 – 6

Focus Verses: Proverbs 4:18-19
18 The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day. 19 But the way of the wicked is like deep darkness; they do not know what makes them stumble.

Insight:
The more a person walks in the light of God's wisdom, the more he is able to see. As the light increases, the clearer things become. As the sun of wisdom rises higher into the sky of a person's life, the right paths to walk become easier to find and follow. On the other hand, darkness leads to darkness. The longer the sun of truth sinks below the horizon, the darker the night becomes, and the harder it becomes to see anything at all. The tighter a person closes his eyes, the more hopeless and futile his journey becomes.

Response and Action:
I am encouraged by the idea that knowledge leads to more knowledge. I'm inspired by the promise that living in the light of wisdom results in greater light and greater wisdom. I want to grow in truth and understanding every day. I will seek God's wisdom through study, knowing that as I learn and grow, I will get even more out of the things I am studying. I will think about things that stretch my mind and I will seek out meaningful conversations with others, trusting that deep questions and discussions will lead me to deeper understanding. I will humble myself before God through prayer, worship, and obedience, trusting that the more I see the light of Christ, the more clearly I will see everything else by that light.

O God, guide my steps in the light of your truth. Help me to walk in the light as Christ is in the light. Make your wisdom to shine brighter and brighter each day I live. Help me to see the light and to see by the light. Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart; Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art. Be thou my best Thought, by day or by night--waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light. Amen.

New Testament for Today: Luke 8:16-18
16 "No one lights a lamp and hides it in a jar or puts it under a bed. Instead, he puts it on a stand, so that those who come in can see the light. 17 For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open. 18 Therefore consider carefully how you listen. Whoever has will be given more; whoever does not have, even what he thinks he has will be taken from him."
In Context: Luke 8:1-21

Recommended Reading:
The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life In God
Dallas Willard

August 21 - Eyes of the WIse

Overview of: Proverbs

Today's Reading:
Proverbs 1 – 3

Focus Verses: Proverbs 3:3-7
3 Let love and faithfulness never leave you; bind them around your neck, write them on the tablet of your heart. 4 Then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man. 5 Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; 6 in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. 7 Do not be wise in your own eyes; fear the LORD and shun evil.

Insight:
Attaining wisdom requires a reverence for God, a humble attitude, a readiness to listen, a desire to learn, an urgency to seek, and a faith in God. Those who want to find the best path for their lives--the path that is stable, straight, and true--must acknowledge God. They must recognize and lean on God's knowledge and understanding rather than trusting in their own.

Response and Action:
I recognize that the world is too complex for me to figure out on my own. I know that I need more than my own knowledge and understanding to navigate my way through life. In every area of life--in all my ways--I will acknowledge my need for direction and insight from God. I will pray. I will read the Bible. I will give careful consideration to the choices, directions, and actions I take, and hold them up to the counsel of Scripture. Because I desire to be wise and discerning, I will cultivate my reverence for God, I will humble myself, I will make every effort to seek wisdom and truth, and I will live in community with others who love God and seek wisdom.

O God, fill me with the knowledge of your will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding in order that I might live a life worthy of Jesus and please him in every way. Help me to bear fruit in every good work, to grow in the knowledge of the Christ, and to be strengthened with all power according to his glorious might. By his power and glory, give me great endurance and patience. And help me to joyfully give thanks to you, O Father, as you have qualified me to share in the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. You have rescued me from the dominion of darkness and brought me into the kingdom of the Son you love--the Son in whom I have redemption and the forgiveness of sins. It's in his name that I pray. Amen.
(Based on Colossians 1:9-14)

New Testament for Today: James 3:17-18
17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace raise a harvest of righteousness.
In Context: James 3:13-18

Recommended Reading:
The Divine Conspiracy: Rediscovering Our Hidden Life In God
Dallas Willard

August 20 - Stars and Sorrows

Overview of: PSALMS

Today's Reading:
Psalms 147 – 150

Focus Verses: Psalm 147:3-5
3 He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. 4 He determines the number of the stars and calls them each by name. 5 Great is our Lord and mighty in power; his understanding has no limit.

Insight:
The God, who has created the universe and knows every star by name, created me and knows my every need. There is no limit to his understanding. He cares for me and he brings healing when I am hurt and when my heart is broken. He is able to renew my life.

Response and Action:
In a world of hurt and injury, I trust God to heal and renew me. I believe God knows my name and understands my needs. He is greater than the things that wear me out and break my heart. His strength is greater than my weakness. I will trust in his faithfulness to renew and sustain me. I will praise him for the restoration and healing he has already provided me so many times in the past. I will continue to hope in his promises for my future.

O God, your understanding reaches from the farthest star to my deepest sorrow. You know the secrets of how the universe was formed, and you know the secret things that break my heart. You are the creator of all things, and you are able to renew and restore and redeem all who look to you in faith. Forgive me for the ways I have contributed to the brokenness of the world and the brokenness of my own life. Renovate my heart and renew my mind. Save and heal me. Make me an instrument of your care and redemptive love in this weary and wounded world. I pray all this in the healing and saving name of Jesus. Amen.

Proverb for Today: Prov. 20:27
"The lamp of the LORD searches the spirit of a man; it searches out his inmost being."

New Testament for Today: 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
16 Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.
In Context: 2 Corinthians 4

Recommended Reading:
The Ragamuffin Gospel: Good News for the Bedraggled, Beat-Up, and Burnt Out
by Brennan Manning