October 10 Psalm 119:9-16 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20; 3 Jeremiah 21; 22; 23:1-8
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 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?
October 10 Psalm 119:9-16 1 Thessalonians 2:17-20; 3 Jeremiah 21; 22; 23:1-8
Psalm 119:9-16
How can we live by the guidance of God? Is a pure life possible? God has spoken to humanity. This truth is helpful. When we search out the guidance of God, we will find fresh purpose, energy, and direction. We will be better equipped to break bad habits. Carefully considering the meaning of Scripture in an effort to apply what God has said, to our lives, is the way to go. This includes the memorization of Scripture. In this way, our personal relationship with God becomes more meaningful and we grow by using the Word of God.
1 Thessalonians 2:17-20; 3
Paul, Timothy, and their ministry team express love and compassion for the church in Thessalonians. They encouraged believers to strengthen their faith in preparation for difficult days ahead. They encouraged the Thessalonians so that they might stand strong in faith through it all. In the same way, they prayed for the believers to have a growing love for each other. They also shared a reminder that Jesus will return. They were building a joyful confident hope in Jesus. Paul, Timothy, and their ministry team lived with an awareness that people will live forever. This truth informed their value system. God loves people more than temporary things. We should too.
Jeremiah 21; 22; 23:1-8
The people of Jerusalem had turned away from God in favor of the worship of other gods. They had treated the Temple of God like a “lucky rabbit’s foot”, believing that it would still protect them from judgment. God said, “No, I will punish you for your sinfulness”. The church building is not protection for the unrepentant sinner. In contrast, God blessed King Josiah, in part, because he gave justice and help to the poor and needy. Josiah’s actions were seen as a sign of his relationship with God. We read about God’s value system (mercy and justice) in Jeremiah 21:11-13, 22:3, 22:15-19. God is a Good Shepherd who recognizes bad shepherds (Jeremiah 23:2) and will replace them with new shepherds to care for His people. God is still doing this today. In the middle of punishing evil rulers of Judah (descendants of David) God renews His promise to bring the Messiah from their family.