August 14 Psalm 96 1 Corinthians 9:1-18 Ecclesiastes 9:13-18; 10; 11; 12
Psalm 96
The One True Living God is our Creator, Provider, Protector, and Redeemer. Let us thank God for who He is and all that He has done! It’s good to speak the truth that our God saves. We should sing about God’s greatness describing His power and majesty. The whole earth will be glad at the coming of our Lord. Let’s make public our praise for God. Today let us sing a new song!
1 Corinthians 9:1-18
There is a lot of discussion about spiritual freedom. Arguments within the church have included questions from certain people who have challenged the authority of Paul (to give them instructions). Paul brings a reminder of the nature of that relationship and an account of how he has served them voluntarily. His choice to work for them, free of charge, should be taken into consideration when others call into question his motive. The Corinthian believers should respond to Paul with gratitude and respect.
Ecclesiastes 9:13-18; 10; 11; 12
Solomon gives us repeated contrasts between folly and wisdom. “It’s better to hear the quiet words of a wise person than the shouts of a foolish king.” Do we look for wisdom? Solomon writes about the ironies found in this life and recommends that we learn from them. Many things in this life are not certain but beyond our control. We should learn to live with this reality. We can focus on God’s purpose and what we can change. We should be reminded that someday we will give account to God for how we have lived. Accountability cannot be avoided.
August 14 Psalm 96 1 Corinthians 9:1-18 Ecclesiastes 9:13-18; 10; 11; 12
Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.
Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.
• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?
• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?
• What should you do about that truth?