Daily Reading Week 27
Sunday
Jonah 4
DISCOVER:
1. In what ways have I found myself struggling with judgment and self-righteousness towards non-believers or those engaging in sinful behavior?
2. How can I actively cultivate a heart that prioritizes forgiveness, compassion, and a desire to see redemption in the lives of others, even when it may be challenging?
3. Have I been open to allowing God to transform my attitudes and perspectives towards those on the margins of society, demonstrating His love and grace in tangible ways?
RESPOND:
In Jonah 4:1-11, we witness Jonah's struggle with his own heart attitudes towards the people of Nineveh. Instead of rejoicing in their repentance and God's mercy, Jonah is filled with anger and resentment towards God for showing compassion to a sinful and undeserving people. This passage should challenge us to examine our own hearts and motivations when it comes to sharing God's love and grace with others, especially those we may find difficult to love.
As we reflect on Jonah's story, we may discover that at times, our hearts can be hardened by judgment and self-righteousness. We may find ourselves more focused on condemning sinful behavior and unbelievers than on extending forgiveness and redemption. This can hinder our ability to see God's work in the lives of those around us and limit our capacity to demonstrate His love.
In your prayer time today, take time to examine your own heart attitudes towards non-believers and those who may engage in sinful behavior. Are there individuals or groups that you struggle to show compassion and grace towards? Are there times when you prioritize judgment over mercy, condemnation over forgiveness?
Ask God to reveal any areas of your heart that need transformation and healing. Pray for a renewed desire to see forgiveness and redemption granted to all, just as God desires. Seek His help in cultivating a heart that mirrors His love and compassion for all people, regardless of their past or present circumstances.
Monday
Nahum 1
DISCOVER:
1. How do I perceive the balance between God's justice and goodness in my own life and the world around me?
2. In what ways have I experienced God's justice and goodness in times of trial or blessing, and how has it shaped my faith journey?
3. How can I reflect the justice and goodness of God in my interactions with others and in the way I live out my faith daily?
RESPOND:
In Nahum chapter 1 we encounter a tension between two aspects of God's character: His goodness and His justice. In verse 7, we read, "The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him." This verse highlights God's unwavering goodness and faithfulness to those who trust in Him. We are reassured of His love, protection, and care for His people.
However, in verse 8, we are confronted with a different aspect of God's character: His justice. It says, "But with an overflowing flood he will make a complete end of the adversaries and will pursue his enemies into darkness." This verse speaks of God's judgment upon those who rebel against Him and refuse to repent of their sins. It reminds us that a good God must also be just, holding people accountable for their actions.
The tension between God's goodness and justice can be difficult for us to understand, but it ultimately points to the depth of His love for us. God's goodness allows us to find refuge and security in Him, knowing that He cares for us deeply. His justice, on the other hand, ensures that evil will not go unpunished, and that righteousness will prevail in the end.
When we come to faith in Christ we are saved not just by God, but we are saved from God. It is the wrath of God against sin that Christ took on the cross in our place. It is when we begin to understand the perfect holiness of God that requires punishment for sin that we can begin to understand his goodness.
When the children first encounter Aslan the lion in C.S. Lewis’ book The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe,they ask Mr. Beaver if Aslan is safe. Mr. Beaver responds by saying, "Safe? Who said anything about safe? 'Course he isn't safe. But he's good. He's the King, I tell you." This quote highlights the idea that Aslan, representing Jesus Christ, may not be safe in the sense of being unthreatening, but His goodness and righteousness are unwavering and ultimately trustworthy. When we come to God on his terms, we can trust his promises to be a refuge.
Tuesday
Nahum 2
DISCOVER:
1. How does the imagery of God as a conquering warrior in Nahum chapter 2 deepen my reverence and awe for His power and sovereignty in my life?
2. In what ways does a healthy fear of God influence my daily decisions, actions, and attitudes towards Him and others?
3. How can I cultivate a deeper sense of humility and obedience in my relationship with God, recognizing His authority and justice as the conquering warrior depicted in Nahum chapter 2?
RESPOND:
In Nahum chapter 2, we are confronted with a vivid depiction of God as a conquering warrior, bringing judgment and justice upon the unrepentant. The imagery of battle and destruction should evoke a sense of awe and reverence for the power and sovereignty of God, inspiring a healthy fear in the hearts of believers.
The portrayal of God as a conquering warrior in Nahum chapter 2 serves as a reminder of His holiness, righteousness, and authority over all creation. It reveals His unwavering commitment to uphold justice and hold accountable those who rebel against His ways. As believers, we are called to approach God with reverence and awe, acknowledging His supremacy and recognizing our dependence on Him.
The healthy fear of God that is inspired by Nahum's depiction of God as a conquering warrior is not rooted in terror or dread, but rather in a deep respect for His character and a recognition of His power. This fear motivates us to walk in obedience, to seek His guidance and wisdom, and to live in alignment with His will.
As we reflect on the imagery presented in Nahum chapter 2, let us consider how our understanding of God as a conquering warrior should shape our relationship with Him. May it inspire us to approach Him with humility and reverence, to submit to His authority, and to trust in His perfect judgment and sovereignty.
Wednesday
Nahum 3
DISCOVER:
1. How does Nahum chapter 3 challenge me to examine my own heart and life in terms of repentance, humility, and obedience to God's will?
2. In what ways do I see the consequences of unrepentance and rebellion against God playing out in the world around me, and how does this prompt me to prioritize seeking reconciliation with Him?
3. How can I actively respond to God's call to repentance and transformation in my daily walk, seeking His forgiveness, grace, and guidance to align my life with His truth and righteousness?
RESPOND:
In Nahum chapter 3 we witness the prophetic depiction of the downfall of the Assyrian empire due to its wickedness, arrogance, and unrepentant ways. This chapter not only serves as a historical account but also as an allegory for the ultimate fate of all unrepentant people in eternity, emphasizing the consequences of rejecting God's call to repentance.
Just as the Assyrian empire faced destruction and judgment for its sins, so too will all who persist in rebellion against God and refuse to turn to Him in repentance. Nahum's prophecy serves as a sobering reminder of the reality of God's justice and the certainty of His judgment upon those who reject His mercy and grace.
Nahum chapter 3 challenges us to consider our own hearts and lives considering God's call to repentance and transformation. It prompts us to reflect on the state of our relationship with God, our attitudes towards sin, and our willingness to turn to Him in humility and contrition.
The fate of the unrepentant as portrayed in Nahum chapter 3 should inspire us to not only seek personal reconciliation with God, but to also urgently share the truth of the Gospel with our friends and neighbors.
Thursday
Habakkuk 1
DISCOVER:
1. How do I respond when I see injustice and evil prospering around me? Do I bring my honest questions and frustrations to God like Habakkuk did?
2. Am I able to trust in God's timing and sovereignty even when it seems like He is slow to respond to my prayers or struggles?
3. In what ways can I remind myself daily that God is always working for His glory and my good, even when His ways may be different from what I expect?
RESPOND:
In Habakkuk 1:1-11, we see the prophet questioning God about the injustice and evil happening around him. Habakkuk couldn't understand why the wicked were prospering while the righteous suffered. It's a situation many of us can relate to today. We may wonder why God seems slow to respond to the injustices and struggles we face.
But as we reflect on this passage, we are reminded that God's ways are higher than our ways, and His timing is perfect. Even when it seems like He is silent or slow to act, we can trust that He is always at work behind the scenes. Just like Habakkuk, we can bring our honest questions and frustrations to God, knowing that He can handle our doubts and fears.
God's response to Habakkuk may not have been what he expected or wanted to hear, but it ultimately revealed God's sovereignty, goodness, and holiness. Similarly, in our own lives, God may work in ways we do not expect, but we can be confident that His plans are for His glory and our good (Romans 8:28).
So, let us hold onto the truth that God has not forgotten us, even when it seems like He is slow to respond. Let us trust in His perfect timing and rest in His sovereignty. May we continue to seek Him during our struggles, knowing that He is always with us, working all things together for our ultimate good.
Friday
Habakkuk 2
DISCOVER:
1. Do I find myself relying on my own works and righteousness to earn favor with God, or am I able to humbly trust in Christ alone for salvation?
2. How does the concept of living by faith, rather than works, impact my daily walk with God and my relationships with others?
3. In what ways can I actively reject self-righteousness and pride, choosing instead to embrace God's grace and mercy in my life?
RESPOND:
In Habakkuk 2:4, we read the powerful words, "Behold, his soul is puffed up; it is not upright within him, but the righteous shall live by his faith." This verse reminds us of the danger of relying on our own righteousness and works to earn favor with God. It highlights the contrast between the prideful wicked and the humble righteous who live by faith.
It is a common temptation to look at the world's wickedness and feel self-righteous in comparison. We may think that our good deeds and moral living make us more acceptable to God. However, the truth is that none of us can meet God's perfect standard on our own. Our works, no matter how good they may seem, can never earn us salvation or approval in the eyes of our Creator.
Instead, we are called to rest in Christ alone. We are to continually reject any notion of self-righteousness and rely on the righteousness that comes through faith in Jesus. The righteous shall live by faith, not by works or self-righteousness. Our true standing before God is based on our faith in Him, not on anything we can do on our own.
Saturday
Habakkuk 3
DISCOVER:
1. How often do I intentionally reflect on and recount God's faithfulness in my life and in the lives of those who have gone before me?
2. In what ways does remembering God's past faithfulness strengthen my trust and hope in Him during times of difficulty or uncertainty?
3. How can I incorporate the practice of recalling God's faithfulness into my daily spiritual routine to cultivate a deeper sense of gratitude and trust in Him?
RESPOND:
In Habakkuk 3:1-16, we read the prophet's prayerful reflection on God's past faithfulness and mighty deeds. Habakkuk recounts how God delivered His people in the past, how He displayed His power and glory, and how He upheld His promises despite difficult circumstances. This passage is a reminder of the importance of remembering God's faithfulness in both history and in our personal lives.
When we find ourselves struggling to trust the Lord, it is helpful to look back on the ways in which He has shown Himself faithful throughout history. From the stories of Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Jacob, Ruth, David, Paul, and countless other saints, we see a pattern of God's unwavering faithfulness and provision. Their stories serve as a testament to God's faithfulness and His commitment to His people.
Furthermore, reflecting on our own lives, we can see how God has been faithful to us personally. We can recall moments of answered prayers, unexpected blessings, and divine interventions that have shaped our faith journey. By remembering these instances of God's faithfulness, we can find hope and encouragement during our current struggles and uncertainties.
Just as Habakkuk found strength and confidence in God's past faithfulness, we too can draw comfort from knowing that the same faithful God who worked in the lives of our spiritual ancestors is at work in our lives today. Take time to recount God's faithfulness in the past, both in history and in our personal experiences, and let that remembrance fuel your trust and hope for the future.