October 19 Proverbs 25:11-20 1 Timothy 4 Jeremiah 40:7-16; 41; 42
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 19 Proverbs 25:11-20 1 Timothy 4 Jeremiah 40:7-16; 41; 42
Proverbs 25:11-20
We must be careful with what we say. Our words can help or hurt. When we listen, valid criticism is a gift. A trustworthy person is refreshing on difficult days. Gentle persuasive words can accomplish much.
1 Timothy 4
False teaching, bringing legalism and deception, may continue. Such teachers will confuse right from wrong. As we follow Jesus, let us prioritize our becoming more like Jesus above “arguing godless ideas”. Our hope in Jesus should be what we are focused on. We can be an example to others in how we talk and how we live. Our lives should be pure, full of faith and love. Reading the Scripture when we gather, will help. Let us throw ourselves completely into this life of following Jesus. This chapter gives us an idea of just how that works. It also serves as a priority for anyone who wants to become a Christian servant leader.
Jeremiah 40:7-16; 41; 42
Out of jealousy for a throne of broken power, Ishmael murders Gedaliah (whom the Babylonians had left in the leadership of the Judean remnant). Johanan removed Ishmael and rescued the people he had captured. Johanan then asked the prophet Jeremiah for guidance from God. The message from God included direction. They heard the revelation of God’s sorrow. They heard about the possible consequences of fearing other people more than they respected God. When God speaks we must listen. All this time, God has been alive, aware, able, and active.