SATURDAY 31 ST OCTOBER, 2020

FRIDAY 30TH OCTOBER, 2020

THURSDAY 29 OCTOBER, 2020

WEDNESDAY 28 OCTOBER 2020

TUESDAY 27 OCTOBER 2020

MONDAY 26TH OCTOBER, 2020

SUNDAY 25 OCTOBER, 2020

SATURDAY 24 OCTOBER, 2020

FRIDAY 23 OCTOBER, 2020

THURSDAY 22 OCTOBER, 2020

WEDNESDAY 21 OCTOBER, 2020-WHAT'S WRONG WITH THE WORLD?

 October 21

What’s Wrong with the World?

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 62–64
• 1 Timothy 1

Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst.

1 Timothy 1:15

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Today's Scripture & Insight:

There is an oft-heard story that The London Times posed a question to readers at the turn of the twentieth century. What’s wrong with the world?

That’s quite the question, isn’t it? Someone might quickly respond, “Well, how much time do you have for me to tell you?” And that would be fair, as there seems to be so much that’s wrong with our world. As the story goes, The Times received a number of responses, but one in particular has endured in its brief brilliance. The English writer, poet, and philosopher G. K. Chesterton penned this four-word response, a refreshing surprise to the usual passing-of-the-buck: “Dear Sirs, I am.”

Whether the story is factual or not is up for debate. But that response? It’s nothing but true. Long before Chesterton came along, there was an apostle named Paul. Far from a lifelong model citizen, Paul confessed his past shortcomings: “I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man” (v. 13). After naming who Jesus came to save (“sinners”), he goes on to make a very Chesterton-like qualification: “of whom I am the worst” (v. 15). Paul knew exactly what was and is wrong with the world. And he further knew the only hope of making things right—“the grace of our Lord” (v. 14). What an amazing reality! This enduring truth lifts our eyes to the light of Christ’s saving love.  

By:  John Blase

Today's Scripture

1 Timothy 1:12–17(NIV)

Insight

In 1 Timothy 1:13, Paul recalled how some thirty years earlier he had mercilessly persecuted believers in Jesus, and yet Jesus had mercifully saved him on the Damascus Road (Acts 9:1–19; 22:3–21; 26:9–18). He considered himself the least qualified and the most undeserving recipient of God’s mercy and grace (1 Timothy 1:13–14). Yet God told Ananias that Paul was to be His “chosen instrument” to take the gospel to the gentiles (Acts 9:15). Paul saw another reason God chose to save him: he was “a prime example of [God’s] great patience with even the worst sinners.” Because God saved Paul, “others [would] realize that they, too, can believe in [God] and receive eternal life” (1 Timothy 1:16 nlt). God had us in mind when He saved Paul—an amazing thought! Paul makes it clear that if Jesus could save and use him, the worst of sinners, then no one is beyond God’s mercy and saving grace.

Reflect & Pray

What is wrong with the world? Can you own the answer Paul and Chesterton gave? What is one way you can accept that without sliding into self-hatred?  

God, thank You for Your immense patience with me, a sinner. To You be honor and glory forever and ever.

To learn about answering questions related to the Christian faith, visit ChristianUniversity.org/CA101.

TUESDAY 20TH OCTOBER, 2020-GOLDEN SCARS

 

October 20

Golden Scars

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 59–61
• 2 Thessalonians 3

If I must boast, I will boast of the things that show my weakness.

2 Corinthians 11:30

Today's Scripture & Insight:

In the Netherlands, a group of fashion designers offer a “Golden Joinery” workshop. Inspired by the Japanese technique Kintsugi, where broken porcelain is visibly repaired with gold, participants collaborate in mending clothes in ways that highlight the mending work rather than trying to mask it. Those who are invited bring “a dear but broken garment and mend it with gold.” As they remake their clothes, the repair becomes ornamental, a “golden scar.”

Articles of clothing are transformed in ways that highlight the places where they were torn or frayed. Perhaps this is something like what Paul meant when he said that he would “boast” in the things that showed his weakness. Although he’d experienced “surpassingly great revelations,” he doesn’t brag about them (2 Corinthians 12:6). He is kept from getting proud and overconfident, he says, by a “thorn” in his flesh (v. 7). No one knows exactly what he was referring to—perhaps depression, a form of malaria, persecution from enemies, or something else. Whatever it was, he begged God to take it away. But God said, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness” (v. 9).

Just as the rips and tears in old clothes can become sights of beauty as they’re remade by designers, the broken and weak places in our lives can become places where God’s power and glory may shine. He holds us together, transforms us, and makes our weaknesses beautiful.

By:  Amy Peterson

Today's Scripture

2 Corinthians 12:1–10(NIV)

Insight

Responding to false teachers who said he wasn’t a genuine apostle because he didn’t have ecstatic spiritual experiences, Paul deliberately boasted about the many visions and surpassingly great revelations he’d received (2 Corinthians 12:1–7). Converted and commissioned to be an apostle through a vision of the resurrected Christ (Acts 9:1–19; 22:17–21), Paul brought the gospel into Europe led by a vision of “a man of Macedonia” (16:6–10). And Paul, “caught up to paradise,” saw what heaven was like (2 Corinthians 12:1–4). Such boasting is uncharacteristic of Paul, for he wouldn’t “boast about [himself], except about [his] weaknesses” (v. 5; see also 11:30; Galatians 6:14).

Reflect & Pray

What are some weaknesses you try to keep hidden from the world? How has God revealed His power through your weakness?

God, may all my scars become golden as You heal and repair me in ways that bring glory to Your name.

MONDAY 19 OCTOBER 2020

SUNDAY 18TH OCTOBER, 2020

SATURDAY 17TH OCTOBER, 2020

FRIDAY 16 TH OCTOBER 2020

THURSDAY 15TH OCTOBER, 2020

WEDNESDAY 14 OCTOBER, 2020-THRIVING TOGETHER

 October 14

Thriving Together

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 43–44
• 1 Thessalonians 2

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace.

Colossians 3:15

Today's Scripture & Insight:

My husband, Alan, stood below the towering lights illuminating the athletic field, as a member of the opposing team hit a ball into the air. With his eyes fixed on the ball, Alan ran full speed toward the darkest corner of the field—and slammed into the chain link fence.

Later that night, I handed him an ice pack. “Are you feeling okay?” I asked. He rubbed his shoulder. “I’d feel better if my buddies had warned me that I was getting near the fence,” he said.

Teams function best when they work together. Alan’s injury could have been avoided, if only one of his teammates had yelled out a warning as he approached the fence.

Scripture reminds us that members of the church are designed to work together and watch out for each other like a team. The apostle Paul tells us that God cares about how we interact with each other, because the actions of one person can impact the whole community of believers (Colossians 3:13–14). When we all embrace opportunities to serve each other, fully devoted to unity and peace, the church flourishes (v. 15).

Paul instructed his readers to “let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit” (v. 16). In this way we can inspire and protect one another through loving and honest relationships, obeying and praising God with grateful hearts—thriving together.

By:  Xochitl Dixon

Today's Scripture

Colossians 3:5–16(NIV)

Insight

In Colossians, Paul combats “hollow and deceptive philosophy” (2:8) by positively expounding on the amazing reality that believers die and rise with Christ into a new body and a new family unified in Him (v. 20; 3:1).

To explain how to live according to their new identity in Jesus, Paul uses the metaphor of taking off and putting on clothing. They were to “rid [themselves] of” (3:8, literally, “take off”) their old identities and habits and instead “put on” or “clothe [themselves]” through the Spirit with the beautiful qualities of their new identities in Christ (vv. 10, 12).

Reflect & Pray

How can you share Scripture this week with others to encourage unity and love in the body of Christ? What does it mean for you to have “the message of Christ [dwelling] among you richly”?

Father God, thank You for using Scripture to instruct me, Your Spirit to guide me, and Your people to keep me focused and accountable.

TUESDAY 13 OCTOBER, 2020-GOD HOLDS US

 

October 13

God Holds Us

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 41–42
• 1 Thessalonians 1

I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Isaiah 41:10

Today's Scripture & Insight:

South African Fredie Blom turned 114 in 2018, widely recognized as the oldest living man. Born in 1904, the year the Wright Brothers built their Flyer II, he’s lived through both World Wars, apartheid, and the Great Depression. When asked for the secret for his longevity, Blom only shrugs. Like many of us, he hasn’t always chosen the foods and practices that promote wellness. However, Blom does offer one reason for his remarkable health: “There’s only one thing, it’s [God]. He’s got all the power . . . . He holds me.”

Blom echoes words similar to what God spoke to Israel, as the nation wilted under the oppression of fierce enemies. “I will strengthen you and help you,” God promised. “I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). No matter how desperate their situation, how impossible the odds that they would ever find relief, God assured His people that they were held in His tender care. “Do not fear, for I am with you,” He insisted. “Do not be dismayed, for I am your God” (v. 10).

No matter how many years we’re given, life’s hardships will come knocking at our door. A troubled marriage. A child abandoning the family. Terrifying news from the doctor. Even persecution. However, our God reaches out to us and holds us firmly. He gathers us and holds us in His strong, tender hand.

By:  Winn Collier

Today's Scripture

Isaiah 41:1–10(NIV)

Insight

Fear is one of the most common emotions portrayed in the Bible. The word fear found in Isaiah 41 is the translation of the Hebrew word yare. This word has a variety of meanings including “to be afraid; to stand in awe of; reverence, or honor.”

In verse 5, the “islands” and “the ends of the earth” fear the terrifying power of God. But in verse 10, God tells Israel not to fear because of what He’s done. Israel doesn’t need to react in the same way as the rest of the earth because God has chosen Israel and assures them of His love.

Reflect & Pray

When have you felt isolated or exposed? How does it encourage you to know that your life is being held in God’s strong hand?

God, assure me that You’re holding me because I feel like I’m only hanging on by a thread. I trust that You’ll help and uphold me.

MONDAY 12TH OCTOBER, 2020-LOVING THE STRANGER

 October 12

Loving the Stranger

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 39–40
• Colossians 4

Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt.

Leviticus 19:34

Today's Scripture & Insight:

When I moved to a new country, one of my first experiences left me feeling unwelcome. After finding a seat in the little church where my husband was preaching that day, a gruff older gentleman startled me when he said, “Move along down.” His wife apologized as she explained that I was sitting in the pew they always occupied. Years later I learned that congregations used to rent out pews, which raised money for the church and also ensured no one could take another person’s seat. Apparently some of that mentality carried on through the decades.

Later, I reflected on how God instructed the Israelites to welcome foreigners, in contrast to cultural practices such as I encountered. In setting out the laws that would allow His people to flourish, He reminded them to welcome foreigners because they themselves were once foreigners (Leviticus 19:34). Not only were they to treat strangers with kindness (v. 33), but they were also to “love them as [themselves]” (v. 34). God had rescued them from oppression in Egypt, giving them a home in a land “flowing with milk and honey” (Exodus 3:17). He expected His people to love others who also made their home there.

As you encounter strangers in your midst, ask God to reveal any cultural practices that might keep you from sharing His love with them.

By:  Amy Boucher Pye

Today's Scripture

Leviticus 19:33–37(NIV)

Insight

The book of Leviticus can be a tremendous challenge for readers. A useful tip for reading it begins with understanding its purpose—a purpose found in its name. In the Hebrew Bible, books were named based on their first few words; while in the West, books of the Bible were often named according to their purpose. In the Hebrew Bible, Leviticus is called Vayikra, which means “And He called” (taken from the opening verse, “the Lord called to Moses”). Our English title, Leviticus, is rooted in what the book presents—the rituals, offerings, and expectations of religious ritual and purity. The name is derived from the fact that these rituals were to be performed by the priests, who were from the tribe of Levi. Understanding that the Levitical priesthood’s responsibilities in leading the people in worship are in view can help place this book in its time, setting, and purpose.

Reflect & Pray

Why is it so important that we welcome people into our homes and churches? What do you find most challenging and most rewarding in this?

Father God, You welcome me with open arms, for You love me day after day. Give me Your love to share with others. 

SUNDAY 11TH OCTOBER, 2020-MISSING WISDOM

 

October 11

Missing: Wisdom

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 37–38
• Colossians 3

Give your servant a discerning heart . . . to distinguish between right and wrong.

1 Kings 3:9

Today's Scripture & Insight:

Two-year-old Kenneth went missing. Yet within three minutes of his mom’s 9-1-1 call, an emergency worker found him just two blocks from home at the county fair. His mom had promised he could go later that day with his grandpa. But he’d driven his toy tractor there, and parked it at his favorite ride. When the boy was safely home, his dad wisely removed the toy’s battery. 

Kenneth was actually rather smart to get where he wanted to go, but two-year-olds are missing another key quality: wisdom. And as adults we sometimes lack it too. Solomon, who’d been appointed king by his father David (1 Kings 2), admitted he felt like a child. God appeared to him in a dream and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (3:5). He replied, “I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. . . . So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong” (vv. 7–9). God gave Solomon “a breadth of understanding as measureless as the sand on the seashore” (4:29). 

Where can we get the wisdom we need? Solomon said the beginning of wisdom is a “fear” or awe of God (Proverbs 9:10). So we can start by asking Him to teach us about Himself and to give us wisdom beyond our own.

By:  Anne Cetas

Reflect & Pray

In what areas do you need God’s wisdom? What might give you a teachable heart?

I’m always in need of wisdom, God. I want to follow Your ways. Please show me which way to go.

oday's Scripture

1 Kings 3:5–12(NIV)

Insight

King Solomon’s story is complex. In response to Solomon’s request for discernment, God blessed him with great wisdom (1 Kings 3:9–12). But the king had trouble applying that wisdom to all of life. Just prior to this passage we see how he was already ignoring God’s plan for Israel. In making “an alliance” with Egypt, he married Pharaoh’s daughter (v. 1), a pattern he would continue in later years (11:1–8). This turned Solomon’s heart to “other gods” (v. 4). The nation thrived under Solomon, but the kingdom would be divided because of his sins (vv. 9–13).

SATURDAY 10 OCT. 2020-FIGHTING LIFE'S DRAGONS

 October 10

Fighting Life’s Dragons

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 34–36
• Colossians 2

Having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.

Colossians 2:15

Today's Scripture & Insight:

Have you ever fought a dragon? If you answered no, author Eugene Peterson disagrees with you. In A Long Obedience in the Same Direction, he wrote, “Dragons are projections of our fears, horrible constructions of all that might hurt us. . . . A peasant confronted by a magnificent dragon is completely outclassed.” Peterson’s point? Life is filled with dragons: the life-threatening health crisis, the sudden job loss, the failed marriage, the estranged prodigal child. These “dragons” are the supersized dangers and frailties of life that we’re inadequate to fight alone.

But in those battles, we have a Champion. Not a fairy tale champion—the ultimate Champion who has fought on our behalf and conquered the dragons that seek to destroy us. Whether they’re dragons of our own failures or the spiritual enemy who desires our destruction, our Champion is greater, allowing Paul to write of Jesus, “Having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross” (Colossians 2:15). The destructive forces of this broken world are no match for Him!

The moment we realize that the dragons of life are too big for us is the moment we can begin to rest in Christ’s rescue. We can confidently say, “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57).

By:  Bill Crowder

Reflect & Pray

What “dragons” are you facing in life? How can Christ’s victory on the cross provide encouragement as you deal with them?

Father, thank You for being more than enough for the threats I will face today. Give me the wisdom and strength to walk with You, trusting You for the grace I need.

Read Overcoming Worry at DiscoverySeries.org/Q0711.

Today's Scripture

Colossians 2:9–15(NIV)

Insight

Paul’s letter to the Colossians explains an ancient mystery. How would the wrongful death of a long-awaited Jewish Messiah bring hope not only to Israel but to people of all nations (Colossians 1:26–27)? No one could have guessed. Being full of His Father, the Son bore the sin and shame of all so that He might fill us with Himself (vv. 19–20). As Paul wrote in another letter, if Jesus’ enemies had known what they were doing, they never would “have crucified the Lord of glory” (1 Corinthians 2:8). No one foresaw how the public shame of Christ’s execution would reveal the heart of God while exposing the disgrace of spiritual and political leaders. Yet, as Paul declares to both Jewish and non-Jewish readers, that’s the secret of God’s long-awaited compassionate kingdom (Colossians 3:12–17). Such overflowing goodness is what “Christ in you, the hope of glory” looks like (1:27).

FRIDAY 9TH OCTOBER, 2020-A CRITICAL REACTION

  October 9

A Critical Reaction

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 32–33
• Colossians 1

The one who is patient calms a quarrel.

Proverbs 15:18

Today's Scripture & Insight:

Tough words hurt. So my friend—an award-winning author—struggled with how to respond to the criticism he received. His new book had earned five-star reviews plus a major award. Then a respected magazine reviewer gave him a backhanded compliment, describing his book as well-written yet still criticizing it harshly. Turning to friends, he asked, “How should I reply?”

One friend advised, “Let it go.” I shared advice from writing magazines, including tips to ignore such criticism or learn from it even while continuing to work and write.

Finally, however, I decided to see what Scripture—which has the best advice of all—has to say about how to react to strong criticism. The book of James advises, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (1:19). The apostle Paul counsels us to “live in harmony with one another” (Romans 12:16).

An entire chapter of Proverbs, however, offers extended wisdom on reacting to disputes. “A gentle answer turns away wrath,” says Proverbs 15:1. “The one who is patient calms a quarrel” (v. 18). Also, “The one who heeds correction gains understanding” (v. 32). Considering such wisdom, may God help us hold our tongues, as my friend did. More than all, however, wisdom instructs us to “fear the Lord” because “humility comes before honor” (v. 33). 

By:  Patricia Raybon

Reflect & Pray

What’s your typical reaction when you’re criticized? In a dispute, what’s a humble way you can guard your tongue?

Dear God, when criticism strikes or a dispute hurts, guard my tongue in humble honor of You.

Today's Scripture

Proverbs 15:1–2,31–33(NIV)

Insight

The wisdom found in the book of Proverbs has similarities to the New Testament book of James, which has been referred to as the “Proverbs of the New Testament.” The words of Proverbs 15:1, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs anger” reflect the wise words of James 1:19–20. From the first to the last chapter of James, allusions to or quotes from the book of Proverbs can’t be missed. Both Proverbs 2:6 and James 1:5 note that God is the source of wisdom. The wisdom of Proverbs 10:12 is heard in James’ final words about “cover[ing] over a multitude of sins” (5:20). And, as with many places in the book of Proverbs, James 3 reminds us that wise living includes the careful use of our words.

Visit ChristianUniversity.org/NT336 to learn more about the book of James.

THURSDAY 8 OCTOBER 2020- ZAX NATURE

October 8

Zax Nature

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 30–31
• Philippians 4

Let your gentleness be evident to all.

Philippians 4:5

Today's Scripture & Insight:

In one of Dr. Seuss’ whimsical stories, he tells of a “North-Going Zax and a South-Going Zax” crossing the Prairie of Prax. Upon meeting nose to nose, neither Zax will step aside. The first Zax angrily vows to stay put—even if it makes “the whole world stand still.” (Unfazed, the world moves on and builds a highway around them.)

The tale offers an uncomfortably accurate picture of human nature. We possess a reflexive “need” to be right, and we’re prone to stubbornly cling to that instinct in rather destructive ways!

Happily for us, God lovingly chooses to soften stubborn human hearts. The apostle Paul knew this, so when two members of the Philippian church were squabbling, he loved them enough to call them out (Philippians 4:2). Then, having earlier instructed the believers to have “the same mindset” of self-giving love as Christ (2:5–8), Paul asked them to “help these women,” valued coworkers with him in sharing the gospel (4:3). It seems peacemaking and wise compromise call for team effort.

Of course there are times to take a firm stand, but a Christlike approach will look a lot different than an unyielding Zax! So many things in life aren’t worth fighting over. We can bicker with each other over every trivial concern until we destroy ourselves (Galatians 5:15). Or we can swallow our pride, graciously receive wise counsel, and seek unity with our brothers and sisters.

By:  Tim Gustafson

Reflect & Pray

What are the things you’re fighting over right now? How could wise friends help you resolve your situation? 

Soften my hardened, stubborn heart, loving God, so I can truly live in unity. And help me to be open to wise counsel.

Today's Scripture

Philippians 4:1–7(NIV)

Insight

As Paul winds down his letter to the church at Philippi, the first church he’d planted on European soil, his affection for the people is clearly seen. In Philippians 4:1–3, the apostle uses terminology that speaks deeply of his affection, care, and concern for his Philippian friends. He calls them “brothers and sisters” whom he loves and longs for. These terms fall into the category of relationship. This is important because kinship and family ties were held in tremendously high regard in the ancient world. As such, to speak of someone as family was to elevate them in worth and status. He also uses terms that may refer to them in regard to his ministry: his “joy and crown,” “dear friends,” and “co-workers” in the gospel (vv. 1, 3). Strong relational ties indeed!

WEDNESDAY 7TH OCTOBER, 2020

TUESDAY 6TH OCTOBER, 2020-YOU WILL SEE HER AGAIN

 October 6

You’ll See Her Again

Bible in a Year:

• Isaiah 26–27
• Philippians 2

For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be made alive.

1 Corinthians 15:22

INSIGHT AND INSPIRATION

The room was dim and silent as I pulled a chair close to Jacquie’s bed. Before a three-year battle with cancer, my friend had been a vibrant person. I could still picture her laughing—eyes full of life, her face lit with a smile. Now she was quiet and still, and I was visiting her in a special care facility.

Not knowing what to say, I decided to read some Scripture. I pulled my Bible out of my purse and turned to a reference in 1 Corinthians and began to read.

After the visit and an emotional time in the seclusion of my parked car, a thought came to mind that slowed my tears: You’ll see her again. Caught up in sadness, I had forgotten that death is only temporary for believers (1 Corinthians 15:21–22). I knew I’d see Jacquie again because both of us had trusted in Jesus’ death and resurrection for the forgiveness of our sin (vv. 3–4). When Jesus came back to life after His crucifixion, death lost its ultimate power to separate believers from each other and from God. After we die, we’ll live again in heaven with God and all of our spiritual brothers and sisters—forever.

Because Jesus is alive today, believers in Him have hope in times of loss and sorrow. Death has been swallowed up in the victory of the cross (v. 54).

By:  Jennifer Benson Schuldt

Today's Scripture

1 Corinthians 15:3–4,12–22(NIV)

Insight

When Paul says that “if only for this life we have hope in Christ, we are of all people most to be pitied” (1 Corinthians 15:19), he’s writing in light of the personal sufferings he described earlier in his letter (4:8–13). Though his readers were enjoying the present benefits of knowing Jesus, he’d endured great pain and loss to bring them the good news of everlasting life. While affirming that he’d found in Christ a treasure worth living and dying for, he wanted them to see his suffering as Spirit-enabled evidence of the eternal love and power of God (2:3–5).

LET'S PRAY

Reflect & Pray

How has God comforted you in times of sorrow? How might He want to use you to comfort someone who’s grieving today?

Dear Jesus, thank You for dying for my sin. I believe that You’re alive today because God raised You from the dead.

Read Life After Loss: Grieving with Hope at DiscoverySeries.org/CB131.