One-Year Chronological Bible Reading Plan

June 2023

Verse of the Month:

"Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil." Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

Week 1

Thursday, June 1

Hostility is rampant in our society, or at least it appears that way through the media we view daily. It is hard when we are faced with hostility and anger to be gentle in our speech. There are times we are meant to hold our tongues until we better understand a situation. For many of us, this isn’t always easy, but it is often wise.

Proverbs 17:1-19:29
Focus Text: Proverbs 18:13

Friday, June 2

Building off yesterday, our focus verse today and the passages we have read remind us there are many troubles that can be avoided by simply holding our tongues. When we use godly wisdom and discernment to hold back on speaking, we can avoid worse trouble and sometimes trouble all together. Why do I need to say this? Is it wise to say this now?

Proverbs 20:1-22:16
Focus Text: Proverbs 21:23

Saturday, June 3

As we wrap up this week’s reading, it is important to remember the hope that we have in Christ. When living a godly life on earth gets hard, we have hope. We must live with the end goal in sight, that we will one day dwell in the house of the Lord forever and we are never alone in the meantime.

Proverbs 22:17-24:34
Focus Text: Proverbs 23:17-18

Week 2

Sunday, June 4

The Song of Solomon offers God's perspective on love. It has been interpreted in many ways, but it is included in Scripture for our learning and blessing. An ESV introduction of the book says, “Marriage is a gift of God . . . as such, [the Song] is a fitting image for God’s relationship with his people in both the Old and the New Testament.”

Song of Songs 1:1-8:14
Focus Text:Song of Songs 2:2-13

Monday,June 5

God blessed Solomon with wisdom above any other man, but after the building of the Temple, his life spirals downward. In disobedience to God’s explicit instruction, he marries many women and worships their false gods. Enemies arise against him including Jeroboam who divided the kingdom after Solomon dies. In spite of all he has, Solomon comes to the end of himself, acknowledging that “Everything is meaningless.”

1 Kings 11:1-43
2 Chronicles 9:29-31
Ecclesiastes 1:1-11
Focus text: Ecclesiastes 1:1-11

Tuesday, June 6

Ecclesiastes offers man's perspective on life. It explains the emptiness of everything apart from God. As Pastor Kip said in his introduction to the book, Solomon's view of life is the result of having wrong expectations. Solomon, the wisest of all men, investigates life, and in today’s reading deals with the futility of wisdom, pleasure, work, political power, and wealth. Throughout the book, the word meaningless appears nearly thirty times.

Ecclesiastes 1:12-6:12
Focus text: Ecclesiastes 5:1-7

Wednesday, June 7

Ecclesiastes is one of the Books of Wisdom (others: Job and Proverbs), and in reading them we must acknowledge that both the follies and erroneous thoughts of men, as well as sound theological truth, are recorded. Careful reading of the book and comparing Scripture with Scripture leads to the discovery of truth and gives insights for a meaningful life.

Ecclesiastes 7:1-11:6
Focus text: Ecclesiastes 11:1-6

Thursday, June 8

From the most powerful, wealthy, prominent kingdom of the time, Israel quickly falls into division. From then on, the two kingdoms followed different paths. The northern tribes (Israel) are always far from God, while Judah experiences occasional revivals. It would have been good if the rulers had followed Solomon’s counsel in the concluding verses of Ecclesiastes.

Ecclesiastes 11:7-12:14
1 Kings 12:1-20
2 Chronicles 10:1-19
1 Kings 12:21-24
2 Chronicles 11:1-4
1 Kings 12:25-33
2 Chronicles 11:5-17
Focus text:Ecclesiastes 12:9-14

Friday, June 9

After Solomon’s death, Israel was divided into two kingdoms: the ten northern tribes, Israel, and the two southern tribes, Judah. In today’s readings we learn of the reign of six different kings, three in each domain. The three in the north lead the people into idolatry and violence. Asa, the third king in the south, institutes reforms and “did what was pleasing and good in the sight of the LORD."

1 Kings 13:1-14:24
2 Chronicles 12:13-14
2 Chronicles 11:18-23
2 Chronicles 12:1-12
1 Kings 14:25-28
2 Chronicles 12:15-16
1 Kings 14:29-15:5
2 Chronicles 13:1-22
1 Kings 15:6-8
2 Chronicles 14:1-8
1 Kings 15:9-15
1 Kings 14:19-20
1 Kings15:25-34
2 Chronicles 14:9-15:19
Focus text: 2 Chronicles 14:1-8

Saturday, June 10

Israel’s kings continue in their sinful ways. In contrast, Judah’s King Jehoshaphat is “deeply committed to the ways of the LORD,” and Judah prospers. The evil King Ahab comes to rule in Israel and wicked Queen Jezebel urges him to wage war against Judah. Our reading concludes with the introduction of the prophet Elijah who will be Ahab’s opponent throughout his reign.

1 Kings 15:16-22
2 Chronicles 16:1-10
1 Kings 16:1-34
1 Kings 15:23-24
2 Chronicles 16:11-17:19
1 Kings 17:1-7
Focus text: 2 Chronicles 17:1-14

Week 3

Sunday, June 11

Reading today’s passage, you’ll encounter thirty-four individuals. Additionally, there are numerous groups made up of as few as thirty-two people, while other groups are as large as seven thousand. If that were not enough, you will also encounter twelve different points of geography. Keep your focus on God’s presence. Preparations complete: God directs Elijah to center stage confronting evil in power encounters.

1 Kings 17:8-20:22
Focus Text: 1 Kings 18:1-40

Monday, June 12

Today’s stories begin with Satan working an old trick. Satan ascribes to God limitations combined with a lack of love for His people. You can watch as Scripture reveals thunder and judgment upon the political figures involved in the foul spirituality. The smell is overpowering.

1 Kings 20:23-22:9
2 Chronicles 18:1-8
Focus Text: 1 Kings 21:25-26

Tuesday, June 13

You may know that the four Gospels often present views of a single event in the life of Jesus. Were you aware the books of Kings and Chronicles often bring a similar approach to events? Today’s readings include a running chronicle of events and judgment with a view toward God’s mercy as His people cry out in alarm.

1 Kings 22:10-28
2 Chronicles 18:9-27
1 Kings 22:29-35
2 Chronicles 18:28-34
1 Kings 22:36-40, 51-53
2 Chronicles 19:1-20:30
Focus Text: 1 Kings 22:51-53

Wednesday, June 14

There is faithful covenant-keeping by the LORD alone. Reading the Focus Text will give you an understanding of the issues confronting God’s people.

2 Kings 1:1-18
2 Kings 3:1-27
1 Kings 22:41-49
2 Chronicles 20:31-37
1 Kings 22:50
2 Chronicles 21:1-4
2 Kings 8:16-22
2 Chronicles 21:5-7
Focus Text: 2 Kings 1:1-18

Thursday, June 15

The succession plan of God always has the next leader in the process of preparation. Described in the Focus Text, Elijah’s successor was immediately available. At other times it may be literally hundreds of years before it is obvious that a new leader from God appears.

2 Kings 21:1-25
2 Kings 4:1-44
Focus Text: 2 Kings 2:1-18

Friday, June 16

Was it miracle water, or the presence of the Lord? Was it obedience? Strange stories include seven dunkings in a muddy pond which, of course, is not the real point of the story.

2 Kings 5:1-8:15
Focus Text: 2 Kings 5:1-19

Saturday, June 17

When leaders fail to act, or abandon their spiritual responsibilities, disasters accumulate like vermin in a garbage pit. Bold actions in judgments are exacted against those who disobey the Lord.

2 Chronicles 21:8-20
2 Kings 8:23-29
2 Chronicles 22:1-7
2 Kings 9:1-10:17
2 Chronicles 22:8-9
2 Kings 10:18-31
Focus Text: 2 Chronicles 21:12-15

Week 4

Sunday, June 18

The readings this week are not for the faint of heart. For example, Athaliah, the blood-on-her-hands queen ruling in Judah, arranged for the entire royal family to be killed, including her own grandchildren!! Except for one infant who was kept in hiding for 6 years, when Athaliah was murdered, he succeeded her as king—at the age of 7!

2 Kings 11:1-3
2 Chronicles 22:10-12
2 Kings 11:4-12
2 Chronicles 23:1-11
2 Kings 11:13-16
2 Chronicles 23:12-15
2 Kings 11:17-21
2 Chronicles 23:16-21
2 Kings 12:1-16
2 Chronicles 24:1-22
2 Kings 10:32-36
Focus text: 2 Kings 11:1-3, 21; 12:1-3 (compare 2 Kings 10:27); 2 Chronicles 24:20-21

Monday, June 19

In contrast to the hypocrisy of the kings, the faithful prophet, Elijah, continued to prophesy from his deathbed. Even more remarkable, after he died and was buried, his bones had miraculous powers!

2 Kings 13:1-11
2 Kings 12:17-21
2 Chronicles 24:23-27
2 Kings 13:14-25
Focus Text: 2 Kings 13:14-21

Tuesday, June 20

Unfortunately, the animosity between the kings of Israel and Judah led to civil war, resulting in the sacred temple in Jerusalem being plundered. But worse, the worship of false gods was an ongoing problem, leading God to send a lineup of prophets to announce horrifying judgment if the people failed to repent (or, if they repented, there would be great days ahead). Question: Why did God send the prophet Jonah to an infamous Gentile city? The people there quickly repented. Hint, hint.

2 Kings 14:1-14
2 Chronicles 25:1-24
2 Kings 13:12-13
2 Kings 14:15-16. 23-27
2 Chronicles 25:25-28
2 Kings 14:17-22
2 Kings 15:1-5
2 Chronicles 26:1-21
Jonah 1:1-4:11
Focus Text: 2 Kings 14:9-14, 23-25; Jonah 3:1-10

Wednesday, June 21

You might want to skip reading the book of Amos, if you’re inclined to think you can disobey God and get away with it. Actually… if so, it’s the very reason you should read (and reread) this book! “Sinners in the hands of angry God” is frightening. Shockingly, Amos made clear that the Chosen People were no better off than the pagans!

Amos 1:1-6:14
Focus text: Amos 4:1-13; 5:18-27

Thursday, June 22

As stated in Hebrews 11:36-38, prophets were often flogged, chained, imprisoned, stoned, even sawn in two—“the world was not worthy of them.” In other words, the prophets declared the word of the Lord at great risk—mostly criticizing, occasionally energizing—all intended to call the people to repentance.

Amos 7:1-9:15
2 Kings 14:28-29
2 Kings 15:8-29, 6-7
2 Chronicles 26:22-23
Isaiah 6:1-13
Focus text: Amos 7:10-17; 9:1-4, 8-10, 13-15; Isaiah 6:1-8

Friday, June 23

The prophets Micah and Isaiah were contemporaries, and they both pointed fingers of accusation at the Chosen People. The issues included idolatry, empty worship, injustices, self-centeredness, greed, even thievery. Consequently, God was going to unleash the Gentile armies of Assyria to enact His divine judgment. But the news wasn’t all doom and gloom.

2 Kings 15:32-38
2 Chronicles 27:1-9
Micah 1:1-16
2 Kings 16:1-9
2 Chronicles 28:1-15
Isaiah 7:1-25
Focus Text: Micah 1:1-16; Isaiah 7:13-20

Saturday, June 24

The prophets are known for their use of images: light, darkness, fire, flames, mountains, rocks, trees, branches, leaves, water, hands, breath, and on and on. Most prophetic language is in poetic verse; consequently, the images are more often metaphoric than literal. “The trees of the field will clap their hands” is an example. But we should always be on the lookout for exceptions.

Isaiah 8:1-11:16
Focus Text: Isaiah 8:1-10; 11:1-9

Week 5

Sunday, June 25

God promised future blessing to the nation of Israel even as the kings of northern tribes and many of Judah pursued spiritually rebellious paths. Despite occasional bright spots, like Hezekiah who did what was right in the eyes of the Lord, God would judge them because of their sin and judge the surrounding, wicked nations whom God used as tools of judgment on Israel. God chose the prophet Hosea to picture His love for Israel as an adulterous nation.

Isaiah 12:1-6
Isaiah 17:1-14
2 Chronicles 28:16-21
2 Kings 16:10-18
2 Chronicles 28:22-25
2 Kings 18:1-8
2 Chronicles 29:1-2
2 Kings 15:30-31
2 Kings 17:1-4
Hosea 1:1-2:13
Focus Text: 2 Kings 18:1-8

Monday, June 26

God uses marriage to illustrate His relationship to His people. Israel’s spiritual unfaithfulness was pictured in Gomer’s marital unfaithfulness. But Israel didn’t see it. They claimed to know God, but showed that they did not truly have that relationship to Him – a warning to us not to rely on religious ritual as a proof of knowing God.

Hosea 2:14-8:14
Focus Text: Hosea 8

Tuesday, June 27

Despite Israel’s waywardness, God’s love was greater. Though the LORD would punish, He would also call for repentance and would heal and bless. In the prophet’s closing words, “whoever is wise, let him understand these things.”

Hosea 9:1-14:9
Focus Text: Hosea 14

Wednesday, June 28

The leadership of Israel – priest, prophet, and prince – had led the way in sinful rebellion against the LORD. Judgment was certain and judgment was executed after two centuries of the LORD’s patience.

Isaiah 28:1-29
2 Kings 17:5
2 Kings 18:9-12
2 Kings 17:6-41
Isaiah 1:1-20
Focus Text: 2 Kings 17:1-23

Thursday, June 29

The prophet Isaiah is focused on the people of Judah and the city of Jerusalem. God has a beautiful future in store for them (Isaiah 2:2-4), but judgment must come first (2:5- 4:1), because only those who are holy will enter into that glorious future (4:2-6). Setting the stage with a parable (5:1-7), Isaiah then explains the “bad fruit” which are the reasons for the coming judgment and exile (5:8-30).

Isaiah 1:21-5:30
Focus Text: Isaiah 5:1-7

Friday, June 30

The nations which God used to discipline His people would themselves be judged for their own wickedness. Mighty nations and long-time neighbors – Babylon, Assyria, Philistia, and Moab – would all fall.

2 Kings 16:19-20
2 Chronicles 28:26-27
Isaiah 13:1-16:14
Focus Text: Isaiah 13:9-12

May 2023

Verse of the Month:

"Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Proverbs 4:23

Week 1

Monday, May 1

Today’s reading includes identical songs of David; only their context differs. Read them both to be encouraged by the promise of God’s deliverance and salvation. David sang the song in praise to God as he fled from his enemies, including King Saul. The Psalm was to be sung by Israel as a reminder of and praise for God’s deliverance of his people.

2 Samuel 22
Psalm 18
Focus Text: Psalm 18:1-6; 46-50

Tuesday, May 2

Today's reading could be titled, "Be sure your sin will find you out." Even King David - a man “after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22) - was not above sin. Satan caused him to sin by numbering the fighting men of Israel, an apparent lack of faith in God’s protection. How does David respond when God gives him a choice of punishments? How would YOU respond?

2 Samuel 24
1 Chronicles 21-22
Focus text: 2 Samuel 24:18-25

Wednesday, May 3

The New Testament tells us that God is a god of order (1 Cor. 14:40), and that characteristic is demonstrated repeatedly in the Old Testament. Today we read about the division of duties among the Levites, who served at the Temple, the priests, and even the musicians. Can there be any doubt that God has particular places of service for his people today, as well?

1 Chronicles 23-25
Focus text: 1 Chronicles 23:1-6

Thursday, May 4

More details on the organizing and duties of Israel’s officials are spelled out, including military commanders and tribal leaders. David gives final instructions to his royal successor, Solomon, including the plans for the Temple which God had not allowed David to build. His final words were those of Moses to Joshua, “Be strong and courageous.”

1 Chronicles 26:1-28:21
Focus text: 1 Chronicles 28

Friday, May 5

In a final act of generosity David gives his treasure to help build the Temple, and even as his life nears the end, he offers a song of praise to God. As the time for the transition to the new king nears, David’s son, Adonijah, aspires to the throne. David thwarts the attempt by publicly declaring Solomon to succeed him.

1 Chronicles 29:1-22
1 Kings 1:1-53
Focus text: 1 Kings 1:28-53

Saturday, May 6

David’s final words to Solomon are recorded just before his death, followed by a very brief summary of his 40-year reign. Our reading today also includes six of David’s psalms (songs) that are not connected to specific events in his life.

1 Kings 2:1-9
2 Samuel 23:1-7
1 Chronicles 29:26-30
Psalms 4-6, 8-9, 11
Focus text: 2 Samuel 23:13-17

Week 2

Sunday, May 7

The disturbed heart of King David painfully asks: “O Lord, how long will you forget me? Forever? How long will you look the other way?” (Psalm 13:1 NLT). Disciples, likewise, should not be surprised to discover themselves discouraged or possibly dishearted for life does not often permit a one-time decision to be faith’s final affirmation. The decision of faith first happens at a specific time and place, but then, occurs repeatedly over a lifetime.

Psalms 12-17
Psalms 19-21
First Focus: Psalm 13:1-5

Monday, May 8

The resonant and familiar words of Psalm 23 enrich our souls. They are worthy of committing to memory. Perhaps you first heard them in the old King James text. Hear them renewed in the New Living Translation which begins: “The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams.”

Psalms 22-26
First Focus: Psalm 23

Tuesday, May 9

If you need a single-sentence-life-purpose statement, consider these straightforward words: “The one thing I ask of the Lord—the thing I seek most—is to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, delighting in the Lord’s perfections and meditating in his Temple” (Psalm 27:4 NLT).

Psalms 27-32
First Focus: Psalm 27:4

Wednesday, May 10

Opening his heart for inspection David prays that disaster comes to his enemies. He implores God to make the disasters quickly happen. “So, let sudden ruin come upon them! Let them be caught in the trap they set for me! Let them be destroyed in the pit they dug for me” (Psalm 35:8 NLT). Whether these requests are appropriate or sadly mistaken thoughts of revenge, true prayers are sometimes violent revealing our deep spiritual need.

Psalms 35-38
First Focus: Psalm 35:1-8

Thursday, May 11

“William Booth, believing he 19^th-century English church had become too refined to reach the cities’ poor, took the gospel into the streets…it was not always safe…Charles William Fry, offered himself and his three sons as bodyguards….all four played brass instruments, which they dragged along to accompany singing...[as a salvation army] Booth’s supporters were soon dragging along concertinas, bells, hunting horns, banjos, tambourines, and drums to praise the Lord. Said one leader, ‘It sounds as if a brass band’s gone out of its mind.’” Adapted from Lyrics for the Living God, The Student Bible, New International Version, 1986, p.502.

Psalms 29-41
Psalms 53, 55, 58
First Focus: Psalm 33:1-3

Friday, May 12

Who can bring healing to the nations? Wars and rumors of wars abound. Disciples dare not hide in an isolated reservoir of personal salvation. Our God cares for persons and nations. Let the whole earth hear His voice. We sing and dream of the day: “Let the whole world sing for joy, because you govern the nations with justice and guide the people of the whole world” (Psalm 67:6 NLT).

Psalms 61-62
Psalms 64-67
First Focus: Psalm 67

Saturday, May 13

It is sometimes inaccurately said that the wrathful God as expressed in the Old Testament is a different God in comparison to Jesus. Yet, if we ask David, who wrote many of the psalms as much as 1,000 years before Jesus appears, we find another view. We hear David say of God:

“But you, O Lord,
are a God of compassion and mercy,
slow to get angry
and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness” (Psalms 86:15 NLT).

Psalms 68-70
Psalms 86
Psalms 101
First Focus: Psalm 86:15

Week 3

Sunday, May 14

When we read the Psalms, we need to be prepared for the unexpected. There’s often drama going on behind the scenes, and hints of it comes through in the poetry. The psalms can range from exalting praise to languishing lament.

Focus text: Psalm 103, 109

Monday, May 15

The psalms provide a model of a close relationship with God, and the heartfelt words of poetry are the perfect way to express how one feels toward God. Most of the Bible is a record of God speaking; but in most of the psalms God is listening.

Focus text: Psalm 139, 141

Tuesday, May 16

The bedrock underlying how God relates to his people (and they to him) is the covenant relationship. God promises to bless as long as people agree to obey. In some of the psalms we read about the horrible consequences of disobedience.

Focus text: (Psalm 89:19-52 note that the psalmist is quoting God in verses 19-37)

Wednesday, May 17

Sometimes the psalmists surprise us with honest questioning of their faith. The world and its values can seem attractive—for a while. But the psalmists always end up trusting God because they know he knows best.

Focus text: Psalm 73:1-17; 74:12-17

Thursday, May 18

Some of the psalms are lessons from history. It was 500 years before when God miraculously led the people of out Egypt. The psalmist reminds us that everything God did was great, leading the people through the wilderness to the Promised Land. Unfortunately, the people rebelled again and again.

Focus text: Psalm 78:1-39

Friday, May 19

Probably the worst thing ever to happen to the Jewish race was the destruction of Jerusalem and Judea by the Babylonian armies. Everyone that wasn’t killed was captured and deported. Some of the psalms cry out to God about this, even though it was actually God’s judgment on their disobedience.

Focus text: Psalm 79

Saturday, May 20

When King David realized that his life was coming to an end, he declared that his son Solomon should succeed him on the throne. He assured Solomon that God would keep his promises and bless him if he would obey all God’s decrees (1 Kings 2:1-4). The good news was, Solomon got off to a great start.

Focus text: 2 Chronicles 1:1-13

Week 4

Sunday, May 21

Whether in the adjudication of moral justice or in civil administration, Solomon displayed God-given wisdom which was granted to him because the LORD loved His people.

1 Kings 3:16-28; 5:1–6:38
2 Chronicles 2:1–3:14
Focus Text: 2 Chronicles 2:1-12

Monday, May 22

Solomon expended much time and material in building not only the house of the LORD but also a palace, judgment hall, and personal residences for himself and for Pharaoh’s daughter whom he had married.

1 Kings 7:1-51
2 Chronicles 3:15-4:22
Focus Text: 1 Kings 7:1-8

Tuesday, May 23

After the completion of the Temple and all its furnishings, Solomon had the Ark of the Covenant brought up and placed in the Most Holy Place. He acknowledged this as a fulfilment of God’s promise to his father David and, on the basis of the LORD’s covenant love toward Israel and David, Solomon pled for mercy and grace toward the nation.

1 Kings 8:1-11
2 Chronicles 5:1–14
1 Kings 8:12-21
2 Chronicles 6:1-11
1 Kings 8:22-53
2 Chronicles 6:12-42
Focus Text: 2 Chronicles 6:12-17

Wednesday, May 24

As part of the Temple consecration service, Solomon blessed the people reminding them to be true to the LORD. But then fire came down from heaven, consuming the sacrifices, and the glory of the LORD filled the Temple. Thereafter, the LORD appeared again to Solomon with an important contribution to the metanarrative of Scripture.

1 Kings 8:54–66
2 Chronicles 7:1-10
1 Kings 9:1-9
2 Chronicles 7:11-22
1 Kings 9:10-14
Focus Text: 1 Kings 8:54-61

Thursday, May 25

The riches and wisdom of Solomon were famous. But the queen of Sheba saw more: the LORD was the source and He loved Israel forever and for that reason He made Solomon king in order to execute justice and righteousness.

2 Chronicles 8:1–18
1 Kings 9:15-10:13
2 Chronicles 9:1-12
1 Kings 10:14-29
2 Chronicles 9:13-28
2 Chronicles 1:14-17
Focus Text: 1 Kings 10:1-9

Friday, May 26

It was God who gave Solomon his renowned wisdom. And it was God who had earlier promised to establish Solomon’s throne forever. Solomon knew the very important truth that human efforts are ultimately in vain. It has to be the LORD who builds the house.

1 Kings 4:1-34
Psalm 72; 127
Focus Text: Psalm 127

Saturday, May 27

The world, Satan, and our own sinful flesh battle for control of our hearts and minds. But the God who gave Solomon his great wisdom offers to us the same divine wisdom that we might have guidance, practice discretion, and pursue righteousness, justice, and fairness. Embrace it, practice it, teach it. Any other path leads to disaster.

Proverbs 1:1–4:27
Focus Text: Proverbs 1:1-9

Week 5

Sunday, May 28

Wisdom and understanding don’t always come easily. There are far more things in this world that tempt us and call for our attention. Things that seem far more enticing and promising than what the Lord offers. It seems as if these easier things will surely give us the desires of our hearts, but they will never fill us. His goodness, wisdom and understanding are harder to mine but fare greater in reward.

Proverbs 5:1-7:27
Focus text: Proverbs 7:1-4

Monday, May 29

I can’t say I know many people who like to be corrected. Most of us do not like when someone speaks hard truth into our lives. However, Proverbs 9 tells us that the wise man will appreciate the correction and be wiser still because of it. It can be hard to hear, but we should be encouraged to pray through hard words spoken to us in case they are Spirit prompted truths.

Proverbs 8:1-10:32
Focus text: Proverbs 9:9-12

Tuesday, May 30

We should be careful what we allow to influence our hearts and minds in our day to day. The music we listen to and the things we watch either though TV or social media have a major impact on the way we think and feel. What we feed grows. What are you feeding?

Proverbs 11:1-13:35
Focus text: Proverbs 11:27

Wednesday, May 31

It is no surprise that we live in a fallen world. We are confronted all day long with the sin that surrounds us, and it can be so discouraging. But our God is still on the move and when we are tempted to just cave to the standards of this world, we can rest in Him knowing our righteousness, through Christ, is not forgotten.

Proverbs 14:1-16:33
Focus text: Proverbs 14:32

April 2023

Verse of the Month:

"There is no one holy like the LORD; there is no one besides you; there is no Rock like our God." 1 Samuel 2:2

Week 1

Saturday, April 1

The cycle of disobedience, oppression, repentance, and deliverance continues. Now especially the oppression by Midian and the call of Gideon points (again) to the importance of God’s deliverance of Israel out of bondage in Egypt and of the responsibility to recount God’s wonderful deeds.

Judges 3:31-6:40
Focus Text: Judges 6:1–27

Week 2

Sunday, April 2

As you read the story of Gideon, note the trajectory it takes. 1) He led a small army to an amazing defeat of the Midianites. 2) He created an ephod which became an idol to the people. 3) His son, Abimelech, rebelled and established his own “kingdom” with devastating results. 4) The people were rebuked for being disloyal to Gideon.

Judges chs. 7:1-9:21
Focus text: Judges 9:7-21

Monday, April 3

What happens to a nation when the rulers are evil? Today's reading should drive us to pray for our nation's leaders. After Abimelech ruled for three years, the people revolted, and he killed many of them in several battles and he himself was killed. Two little-known judges served for 25 years and then we read that the people of Israel “did evil in the sight of the LORD.” Jephthah, who had been abandoned by his people, returned to serve as defender and judge.

Judges 9:22-11:28
Focus Text: Judges 11:1-11

Tuesday, April 4

Real life drama is often worse than fiction. The stories of Israel's judges would make a good TV series. Judge Jephthah had great battle victories, but he made a foolish vow that cost him his daughter’s life. An intertribal battle cost one tribe of Israel great loss of life. And then there's Samson, Israel's next-to-last judge, whose life is a confusing mixture of strength and weakness.

Judges 11:29-ch. 15
Focus text: Judges 11:29-40

Wednesday, April 5

Far too often, we hear of a prominent Christian pastor or teacher who has fallen into sexual sin. Today's reading is the story of Samson, a man of extraordinary strength who had a weakness for women that led to personal disaster and humiliation. A man of riddles, he finally revealed the secret of his power which led to his great fall. It's important to be sure the leaders we put in place are men and women of integrity and that we pray for our spiritual leaders.

Judges 16-18
Focus text: Judges 16:23-31

Thursday, April 6

One of the sad truths about The Church is the number of times a denomination or fellowship of churches have split—too often over something other than a doctrinal issue. Personal biases and tribal distinctions cause great division and disaster among God’s people. There is no “Hallmark movie” ending to the terrible sin of degradation that envelops Israel because of one man’s attempt at revenge. His vengeance brought on the terrible tragedy of another intertribal war, resulting in Benjamin’s tribe losing 25,000. What a terrible slander on Israel and her God!

Judges 19-21
Focus text: Joshua 21:15-21

Friday, April 7

The familiar story of Ruth is an encouragement to any who have lost everything and are pursuing a new and fruitful relationship. Far from Israel and, thus, in that time, far from God, she is like all of us, separated from God because of sin and without hope of redemption. It has been said that Jesus is pictured somehow in every book of the Bible The illustration of the kinsman-redeemer in this story is a beautiful picture of Jesus, the ultimate redeemer who paid the full payment required to set the sinner free.

Ruth 1:1– 4:12
Focus text: Ruth 4:1-12

Saturday, April 8

Most Bible genealogies contain men with names we don’t recognize and can’t pronounce. Very few list a woman, but Ruth is one of them. The story of how she became an ancestor of Jesus is a love story which could be written only by God. Blessed by the elders of Bethlehem, Boaz marries Ruth, and their baby, Obed, begins a genealogy that is continued in 1 Chronicles and ultimately leads to King David and finally to Jesus (Matthew 1:5).

Ruth 4:13-22
1 Chronicles 2:18-55
1 Chronicles 4:1-23
1 Samuel 1:1-8
Focus text: Ruth 4:13-17

Week 3

Sunday, April 9

Hannah’s celebration-song actively proclaims God’s dominion. Her personally challenging emotions, conceived in pregnancy-prayers, connect this passage to many marriages. Please consider reading the account in several translations, delving more deeply into Hannah’s story.

1 Samuel 1:9-4:11
First Focus: 1 Samuel 2:1-10

Monday, April 10

Demonstrating holiness and the significance of disobedience, the Ark of the Covenant demonstrates God’s presence. When The Presence is rejected, the Covenant People resort to another form of disobedience.

1 Samuel 4:12-8:22
First Focus: 1 Samuel 8:1-9

Tuesday, April 11

When God chooses to accept a request which is against his instructions will anything good, will anything holy be the outcome?

1 Samuel 9:1-12:25
First Focus: 1 Samuel 9:10-22 and 10:1-8

Wednesday, April 12

War, war, and more war continuously plague the Covenant People. Rather than a land filled with peace they encounter enemies within even as other foes surround their borders. As you read look for the multiple reasons why these conflicts occur.

1 Chronicles 9:35-39
1 Samuel 13:1-5, 19-23, 6-18
1 Samuel 14:1-52
First Focus: 1 Samuel 14

Thursday, April 13

When personal glory seeks to supplant God’s rightful place as the leader of his nation, human bragging symbols will not last long. God’s sovereign decisions to punish or bless a nation are startling.

1 Samuel 15:1-17:31
First Focus: 1 Samuel 15:12

Friday, April 14

For David, as a specially chosen individual, we might expect life to go forward without serious problems. Reading Psalm 59 you’ll discover spiritual enemies can continually oppose God’s people. David poetically describes them as “vicious dogs” (Psalm 59:6).

1 Samuel 17:32-19:17
Psalm 59
1 Samuel 19:18-24
First Focus: Psalm 59

Saturday, April 15

Overcoming strong opposition at the risk of life and limb, David’s wisdom leads him to praise God despite, not because of, his circumstances. This is a hard lesson.

1 Samuel 20:1-21:15
Psalm 34
First Focus: “Taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8).

Week 4

Sunday, April 16

If you like adventure, don’t miss these chapters: a king in a rage; a fugitive on the run who is actually the king-in-waiting—if he’s not killed first; an evil man single-handedly murdering 85 priests of the Lord; and a psalm written about the evil man!

1 Samuel 22:1-23; 23:1-12
Psalm 52, 57, 142
1 Chronicles 12:8-18
Focus text: Psalm 57:1-7; 1 Samuel 22:9-23; Psalm 52:1-5

Monday, April 17

Ever go to the bathroom in a cave? Only to find out there were other people in the shadows watching you?! And one of them close enough to cut off a piece of your clothing?! Yikes! In this story there seems to be no end to the king’s blunders. More important is his adversary’s restraint.

1 Samuel 23:13-29; 24:1-25:44
Psalm 54
Focus text: 1 Samuel 24:1-22

Tuesday, April 18

Beware of what might happen while you’re sleeping. And beware of consulting dead spirits who might reveal information you really didn’t want to know. But you can rest assured that God will protect people who are faithful to him. Hint, hint.

1 Samuel 26:1-29:11
1 Chronicles 12:1-7, 19
Psalm 56
Focus text: 1 Samuel 26:7-25; 28:4-19

Wednesday, April 19

Sometimes reading through the Bible can be like riding a rollercoaster. The books of Joshua and Ruth have their high points. In the book of Judges, however, the rollercoaster gets stuck in the mud at the very bottom. The story in 1 Samuel is an up-and-down rollercoaster: high at first, but by the end, it’s off the rails with lots of fatalities.

1 Samuel 30:1-31:13
2 Samuel 1:1-27; 4:4
1 Chronicles 9:40-44; 10:1-14; 12:20-22
Focus text: 1 Samuel 31:1-13; 2 Samuel 1:17-27

Thursday, April 20

We might expect that David, the king-in-waiting—as long as Saul was still alive—would quickly and easily ascend the throne after Saul’s death. But no, there was a large contingent of soldiers still loyal to Saul, and they went to battle against David’s men. It was a big mess.

2 Samuel 2:1-3:5; 23:8-39
1 Chronicles 3:1-4a; 11:10-47
Focus text: 2:8-17, 28-32; 3:1

Friday, April 21

If “all is fair in love and war,” as the saying goes, maybe that helps to explain the cruelty and gruesomeness of the ongoing killings between the followers of Saul and David. Unfortunately, the messiness only became messier.

2 Samuel 3:6-4:12
Focus text: 2 Samuel 4:1-12

Saturday, April 22

Finally, at the age of 30, David was enthroned as king over all Israel and Judah. Let the celebrations begin! And they surely did. You can read about how Jerusalem became the “City of David,” how many wives David added to his harem, and the deadly mistake a man made in touching the sacred Ark of the Covenant. Be warned: God expects strict obedience.

2 Samuel 5:1-25; 6:1-11
1 Chronicles 3:4b; 11:1-9; 12:23-40; 13:1-14; 14:1-2, 8-17
Focus text: 2 Samuel 5:4-10; 6:1-11

Week 5

Sunday, April 23

The Ark of the Covenant represented the presence of God with His people and the provision of atonement for their sin. It was therefore a joyous occasion to return it to a central place of worship. The living Christ residing in His followers is an even greater reason for joy.

2 Samuel 6:12-23
1 Chronicles 15:1–16:43
Focus Text: 1 Chronicles 15:1-3, 15-28

Monday, April 24

God rejected David’s request to build a temple and instead spoke a blessing on David, a promise to make is house (family) great and establish David’s throne forever. There is none like the Lord, who shows such great mercy and grace.

2 Samuel 7:1–8:14
1 Chronicles 17:1–18:13
Psalm 60
Focus Text: 1 Chronicles 17:16-27

Tuesday, April 25

The heart of king David is revealed as he sought to show “the kindness of God” to someone of the house of Saul. Though Saul had sought regularly to kill David, David for the sake of Jonathan showed mercy and grace.

2 Samuel 8:15–10:19
1 Chronicles 6:16-48, 50-53; 18:14–19:19
Focus Text: 2 Samuel 9:1-13

Wednesday, April 26

Again David’s heart is revealed: abusive of power, adulterous, deceitful, and murderous; but by God’s mercy: broken, humbled, repentant, and cleansed. We may learn of God’s ways, join in repentance, and declare God’s praise.

2 Samuel 11:1–12:25; 5:14-16
1 Chronicles 3:5-9; 14:3-7; 20:1
Psalm 51
Focus Text: Psalm 51

Thursday, April 27

Military success could be no consolation for the ever worsening situation in King David’s royal family as consequences of his sin against Bathsheba and Uriah multiply. Lust masquerades as love; a crafty cousin counsels deceit; lust erupts into incestuous rape; rightful parental anger neglects righteous consequences; hate seeks revenge in murder.

2 Samuel 12:26–14:33
1 Chronicles 20:2-3
Focus Text: 2 Samuel 13:21-29

Friday, April 28

Though a person is forgiven, the consequences of sin can remain. Nathan had warned David (2 Sam 12:10–12). Now he continues to see those consequences, a judgment which he humbly accepts, leaving his life in the hands of the Lord.

2 Samuel 15:1–17:14
Focus Text: 2 Samuel 16:5-14

Saturday, April 29

When circumstances are bad, when even family becomes an enemy, for what do you thirst? When inwardly you feel totally dry, what will quench that thirst? The Psalmist answers for us: God alone will satisfy, His power and glory and steadfast love.

2 Samuel 17:15–19:30
Psalm 3; 63
Focus Text: Psalm 63

Week 6

Sunday, April 30

Israel is a rising, strong kingdom, and King David faces revolts and wages battles to preserve it. In the midst of his ventures, he sings to the Lord, asking for protection. How often do you sing in the middle of a battle?

1 Samuel 19:31-21:22
Psalm 7
1 Chronicles 20:4-8
Focus text: Psalm 7

March 2023

Verse of the Month:

"Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." Deuteronomy 6:4-5

Week 1

Wednesday, March 1

Despite the rebellious nature of the people of Israel, it was the LORD’s gracious intent to bless them. How does this encourage you, when you struggle with putting off sin in your life?

Numbers 6:1-27
Numbers 10:1-36
Focus Text: Numbers 6:22-27

Thursday, March 2

The majority forgot the greatness of God and His promise to bring them into the land He promised. Only two remembered. This is our continuing challenge: to know clearly what God has promised (and not promised) and to rely upon Him to keep His word.

Numbers 11:1–13:33
Focus Text: Numbers 13:1-33

Friday, March 3

Upon what basis does Moses plead for the LORD to forgive Israel? Who is most important in his prayer? What should be the foremost concern in what you request from God?

Numbers 14:1- 15:41
Focus Text: Numbers 14:13-19

Saturday, March 4

The challenge to leadership was a critical event in the desert wandering. In Jesus Christ we have a greater leader than Moses and a greater High Priest than Aaron (Heb 3:1–6; 4:14ff). How much more should we submit to His leading and take advantage of His priestly service, giving thanks and praising Him for it?!

Numbers 16:1-18:32
Focus Text: Numbers 16:1-35

Week 2

Sunday, March 5

Despite Israel’s complaining and sin, God provides a means for their cleansing, water for their thirst, and a way of healing from the judgment of their sin, a foreshadowing of God’s messianic promise.

Numbers 19:1–21:35
Focus text: Numbers 21:4-9; cp. John 3:14

Monday, March 6

Like Egypt earlier, the Moabites feared the multitudes of Israel and their strength. In an attempt to gain power over God’s people, they try to use Balaam, a heathen seer, to influence the Israelites. Again, God turns men’s evil intentions into good.

Numbers 22:1–24:25
Focus text: Numbers 22:21-41

Tuesday, March 7

Our reading begins with some of the Israelite men defying God’s law about sexual sin, resulting in a terrible plague. God relaxed the plague because of the brave deed of Phinehas, a later leader of Israel. A lengthy list of a new census of the tribes of Israel ensues.

Numbers 25:1-26:65
Focus text: Numbers 25:1-13

Wednesday, March 8

A successor to Moses is appointed and God gives instructions for offerings and festivals to be observed in the Promised Land.

Numbers 27:1-29:40
Focus text: Numbers 27:15-23

Thursday, March 9

God gives additional regulations to Israel about family vows. Israel defeats the Midianites in battle and the booty is distributed fairly among the warriors and the rest of God’s people.

Numbers 30:1-31:54
Focus text: Numbers 31:25-31; Numbers 31:48-54

Friday, March 10

Two tribes of Israel want to remain in the area before the Jordan River. Moses reluctantly accedes to their request, making them promise to come to the aid of the other tribes as they battle in Canaan. The record of their wilderness journey is listed before Moses delivers God’s final instructions to the people, demanding their obedience.

Numbers 32:1-33:56
Focus text: Numbers 33:50-56

Saturday, March 11

Before entering the Promised Land, boundaries are established by God and grants of land are apportioned by Eleazar the priest and Joshua the appointed leader. Provision is made to practice immediate justice, including cities of refuge for the innocently accused. And inheritance protection is put in place for women.

Numbers 34:1-36:13
Focus text: Numbers 34:1-15

Week 3

Sunday, March 12

The journey toward The Land has been treacherous. Not everyone will live to see the special first-footfall day. As readers, be alert for a jolting account.

Deuteronomy 1:1-3:20
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 1:6-8

Monday, March 13

Take these words to heart, acknowledging them as guardians to your families. You should absolutely know: “The LORD is God both in heaven and on earth, and there is no other” (Deuteronomy 4:39).

Deuteronomy 3:21-5:33
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 4:39-40

Tuesday, March 14

God’s people: Give your full obedience to these commands, decrees, and laws. These words are for you. Hear them, understand them, then follow God’s instructions.

Deuteronomy 6:1-9:29
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 6:1-9

Wednesday, March 15

As an act of mercy Moses recites the incidents as the stone tablets were broken, then replaced.

Deuteronomy 10:1-12:32
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 10:12-21

Thursday, March 16

God provides opportunities for His people to demonstrate a strong and continuous commitment of faith. Do not falter when temptation occurs!

Deuteronomy 13:1-16:17
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 13:1-3

Friday, March 17

There is a strong priority to reviewing God’s words each day. God expects every king in Israel to give careful attention and heed these laws.

Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 17:14-20

Saturday, March 18

While learning to live together, while learning to live in The Promised Land, ensure that you are scrupulously honest in business with one another. Cheating in business is “detestable to the LORD your God” (Deuteronomy 25:16).

Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 25:13-16

Week 4

Sunday, March 19

As Moses neared the end of his time as rescuer and leader of the Israelites, he had many important things to emphasize. In particular, it’s shocking to read through chapter 28 with all the horrible things that could happen. (This chapter of 68 verses is # 4 on the list of longest chapters in the Bible.)

Deuteronomy 26:1–29:1
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 26:16–19; 28:1–37

Monday, March 20

It was a solemn occasion when Moses gave the full and final disquisition on the covenant relationship between God and his people. The Israelites must have shuddered in their sandals to hear how important it was to obey God, and what would happen if they didn’t.

Deuteronomy 29:2–31:29
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 30:11–20; 31:15–22

Tuesday, March 21

God often communicates to humans at special moments through a special genre. As you read these poetic lines, what emotions do you feel? Awe? Fear? Regret? Disdain? Note the conclusion: “these are not idle words” (Deut 32:47).

Deuteronomy 31:30–32:52
Psalm 90
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 32:1–6, 36–43

Wednesday, March 22

Though Moses’ life came to an end, his legacy will live on forever, especially pertaining to God’s law and the terms of the covenant. Unfortunately, because of Moses’ act of disobedience, he died a healthy man on a remote mountain, prevented from entering the Promised Land.

Deuteronomy 33:1–34:12
Joshua 1:1–2:24
Focus Text: Deuteronomy 34:5–12; Josh 1:1–9, 16–18

Thursday, March 23

If you like drama, if you like miracles, if you like it when God does the unexpected, then these chapters are must reading. Facing the prospects of crossing the raging Jordan River, or conquering the massively fortified city of Jericho, you won’t be disappointed with how the “God of the impossible” solved such problems.

Joshua 3:1–6:27
Focus Text: Joshua 3:14–17; 4:1–7, 19–24; 5:13–15; 6:15–27

Friday, February 24

You’ll read in today’s chapters about the unexpectedly unfaithful and unfortunate Achan. But don’t miss the contrast with the unexpectedly faithful and fortunate Rahab from the beginning of the book of Joshua. She was a Gentile prostitute. Achan was a Jewish member of Joshua’s family. Shocking contrasts!

Joshua 7:1
1 Chronicles 2:7
Joshua 7:2–9:27
Focus Text: Joshua 7:3–26

Saturday, March 25

How well do most of us understand a warrior’s world and what happens on battlefields? Unless we’ve been a soldier in the midst of life and death conflict, it will be hard to appreciate the ruthless killing resulting from the wars reported in the book of Joshua. Yet it was all part of God’s plan to prove to the Israelites that His power was greater than all others.

Joshua 10:1–12:6
Focus Text: Joshua 10:1–14

Week 5

Sunday, March 26

God was faithful and kept His promise to Israel, defeating the Canaanite kings and giving Israel their land. Though others received their land by lot, Caleb received a special inheritance. Why was Caleb unique?

Joshua 12:7-15:19
Focus Text: Joshua 14:6–15

Monday, March 27

Land allotments continue for the tribes of Judah, Manasseh, and Ephraim, with special consideration given to Caleb (15:13–20), the daughters of Zelophehad (17:3–6), and both the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim (17:14–18). Divine command determined two special allotments. Even though need was another factor considered, fulfilment of prophecy marks the final one (cf. Gen 48:14–22; 49:22–26).

Joshua 15:20-17:18
Focus Text: Joshua 15:13–20; 17:3–6, 14–18

Tuesday, March 28

The remaining land is allotted to the last seven tribes (besides Levi). But Joshua must challenge them to take possession of the land which the Lord had given them – a reminder for us to know what God has promised in His Word and to live in faith that He will do it.

Joshua 18:1-19:48
Focus Text: Joshua 18:1–10

Wednesday, March 29

Joshua got the land the Lord had promised him, the Levites got cities and pasture lands as the Lord had promised, and cities of refuge were appointed for the protection of the unintentional killer which God had promised. Indeed; all the good promises that the Lord had made came to pass. HE keeps His promises!

Joshua 19:49-21:45
1 Chronicles 6:54-81
Focus Text: Joshua 20:1–9; 21:43–45

Thursday, March 30

Faith is not blind trust. The LORD through Joshua sets forth what He had done for His people. God’s previous faithfulness was the basis for their future trust. Remember what God has done to strengthen your future faith.

Joshua 22:1-24:33
Focus Text: Joshua 24:1–18

Friday, March 31

Watch the fall from great successes and great commitment to abject moral failure. The generation who had seen the works of the LORD remained faithful, but the next generation did not. They did not know the work which the LORD had done for them. How important it is to recount the works of the LORD to the next generations!

Judges 1:1-3:30
Focus Text: Judges 2:11–23

February 2023

Verse of the Month:
“Then the LORD came down in the cloud and stood there with him and proclaimed his name, the LORD. And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, ‘The LORD, the LORD, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin. Yet he does not leave the guilty unpunished.” Exodus 34:5-7a

Week 1

Wednesday, February 1

There’s a 400-year gap between the books of Genesis and Exodus, and God was apparently silent all those years. But with the thousands of descendants of Abraham becoming enslaved to the Egyptians, something needed to be done, and soon. Listen in as God ordains a run-a-way prince-turned-shepherd with an unexpected mission.

Exodus 1:1 – 2:25
1 Chronicles 6:1-3a
Exodus 3:1-4:17
Focus Text: Exodus 3:1-22

Thursday, February 2

After 40 years, God decided it was time to call Moses back from being a shepherd of sheep to become the shepherd of the Chosen People. The good news was, the greatest rescue effort ever would soon be launched.

Exodus 4:18-7:13
Focus Text: Exodus 5:22-6:8

Friday, February 3

Want to find out what happens when Pharaoh repeatedly refuses to loosen his vice-grip on his slaves, God’s Chosen People? Interested in watching one of the most impressive displays of power in human history? Keep reading.

Exodus 7:14 – 9:35
Focus Text: Exodus 9:13-35

Saturday, February 4

Heart-stopping plagues continue to devastate the land of Egypt; families awake in shock to the deadly blows of the angel of death, killing every firstborn son across the land. But not the Israelites: as long as they sacrificed a lamb and sprinkled the blood on the doorframes of their homes, they were passed over (“Passover”).

Exodus 10:1 – 12:51
Focus Text: Exodus 11:1-12-20

Week 2

Sunday, February 5

Note how quickly God’s people can move from praise for deliverance (through water) to complain about the bitter water found.

Exodus 13:1-15:27
Focus text: Exodus 15:1-21

Monday, February 6

What do you learn from this week’s reading about God’s provision and protection for His people?

Exodus 16:1-19:25
Focus text: Exodus 19:1-9

Tuesday, February 7

What do we learn about God’s laws in regard to Himself, worship, and personal concerns?

Exodus 20:1-22:15
Focus text: Exodus 20:1-21

Wednesday, February 8

God’s provision is all-inclusive: property, society, justice, and mercy. He provides for Sabbath rest, festivals for celebration and worship, and angelic guardians, also confirming His covenant with Israel.

Exodus 22:16-24:18
Focus text: Exodus 24:1-18

Thursday, February 9

The Tabernacle in the wilderness was ordered by God in great detail (difficult to read sometimes) but each part is significant in illustrating His Great Plan of Redemption.

Exodus 25:1-28:43
Focus text: Exodus 27:20

Friday, February 10

Priests, altars, money, wash basin, oil, incense, and artisans are noted as specially appointed pieces and people dedicated to the worship of God.

Exodus 29:1-31:18
Focus text: Exodus 31:1-11

Saturday, February 11

Impatience leads to gross sin and severe consequences. But God is a God of second chances.

Exodus 32:1-34:35
Focus text: Exodus 33:12-23

Week 3

Sunday, February 12
There is serious work to be done in building the Community of the King. Israel’s observance of specific instructions dominates words for the people who followed the Old Testament Law. God’s strategy was not to be taken lightly, lest it result in death.

Exodus 35:1 – 36:38
Focus Text: Exodus 35:1-3

Monday, February 13
God’s gift of atonement was extraordinary, requiring pure gold. All of God’s people needed forgiveness. The Ark of the Covenant’s golden cover, adorned with cherubim made by the appointed and gifted artisan Bezalel, announced awareness.

Exodus 37:1 – 39:31
Focus Text: Exodus 37:6-9

Tuesday, February 14
God’s conspicuous presence surrounds his people with guidance. Whether day or night, including the darkness of tragedy during storms, God’s directions were clear. We might say in paraphrase, “Undertake the next stage of your journey as I AM directs you.”

Exodus 39:32 – 40:38
Numbers 9:15 – 23
Focus Text: Exodus 40:34-38

Wednesday, February 15
A celebration occurs at the consecration of a special place. God’s people are learning more about the wisdom of precisely following God’s instructions. We come before God with offerings in our hearts and hands.

Numbers 7:1-89
Focus Text: Numbers 7:1-3

Thursday, February 16
Was it a small detail? Why would the account of a skilled craftsman creating a lampstand be included in Scripture? Following God’s instructions with precision reveals more about obedience than simply making a candle holder. It was made “exactly like the pattern the Lord had shown Moses” (Exodus 8:4)

Numbers 8:1 – 9:14
Leviticus 1:1-3:17
Focus Text: Numbers 8:1-4

Friday, February 17
Sin’s extensive reach gives rise to a need for forgiveness. To feel the cost of violating a commandment God imposed penalties for sins unintentionally committed.

Leviticus 4:1-6:30
Focus Text: Leviticus 4:1-2

Saturday, February 18
When Leviticus 7:4 includes an instruction about “the fat around…the long lob the liver” asserting its importance in sacrificial offerings, we hear an odd sound in our 21st-century ears. A similar commandment about the liver’s covering also appears in what we know as Leviticus 4:9 (NLT). Today’s Scripture passage contains numerous odd-sounding concerns for contemporary disciples of Jesus.

Leviticus 7:1 – 8:36
Focus Text: Leviticus 7:1-6

Week 4

Sunday, February 19

Reading Leviticus we’re reminded that sin has terrible consequences. In our case, the debt of our sins was paid for by the gracious sacrifice of blood flowing from Jesus’ body. But for people before Jesus, the debt was paid by sacrificial blood flowing from carefully selected animals. It’s a somber scene that had to be repeated again and again.

Leviticus 9:1 – 11:47
Focus Text: Leviticus 9:1-24; 11:44-45

Monday, February 20

The book of Leviticus strikes modern readers as exotic and puzzling, especially if we imagine ourselves being told these things. However, it wasn’t written to us, but to them. What we’re reading fit in with their culture, not ours. Nevertheless, it was for us. If we step back and take in the big picture, we can see that God’s instructions to them are reminders of his principles of purity and holiness for all of us.

Leviticus 12:1 – 14:32
Focus Text: Leviticus 14:19-20

Tuesday, February 21

The portion we’re reading today could be marked “for medical professionals only” or “X-rated.” It’s shocking that the Bible addresses such personal bodily functions. But here’s the point: the various kinds of impurities in our lives make the cleansing of divine atonement a necessity.

Leviticus 14:33 – 16:34
Focus Text: Leviticus 16:29-34

Wednesday, February 22

When Adam and Eve sinned, they lost their innocence; no longer without sin, no longer perfectly obedient, suddenly with lots to hide. From then on, the storyline of the Bible is about restoring what once was, so it can be once again. Today’s reading helps us understand what’s necessary to be part of God’s extreme makeover edition.

Leviticus 17:1 – 19:37
Focus Text: Leviticus 18:1-5, 29-30; 19:1

Thursday, February 23

In the midst of all the rules and regulations, an overriding concept keeps coming up. It’s actually both the reason for the rules and the goal line of life. Ponder these striking verses in particular: Leviticus 20:7, 22-26; 22:1-3, 31-33; Matt 5:48; 1 Pet 1:16.

Leviticus 20:1 – 22:33
Focus Text: Leviticus 20:7, 22-26; 22:1-3, 31-33

Friday, February 24

If you’ve ever wondered about the holy days in the Jewish calendar, they’re all here. As God’s people celebrated the special days, it was back to the future: God wrote the story of their past into their future.

Leviticus 23:1 – 25:23
Focus Text: Leviticus 23:1-44

Saturday, February 25

Leviticus 26, similar to Deuteronomy 28, is one of the most important presentations of God’s covenant relationship, both for them back then and for us. The two keywords are “if . . . then.” As the Israelites found out, if they were faithful to the terms of the covenant, then God would bless them abundantly. But if not . . . then (fair warning: it’s a dreadful thing to fall into the hands of angry God.)

Leviticus 25:24 – 26:46
Focus Text: Leviticus 26:3-42

Week 5

Sunday, February 26

Historically the book of Numbers records the “desert wandering” of Israel between Sinai and Canaan; theologically it reveals the rebellious heart of Israel (and mankind in general) but also the just and gracious nature of God; devotionally it calls us to worship God with gratitude, trust, and obedience.

Leviticus 27:1-34
Numbers 1:1-54
Focus Text: Numbers 1:1–4, 49–54

Monday, February 27

When God redeemed Israel out of Egypt, and the firstborn Egyptians died, He claimed the firstborn of all Israel for Himself and then called the men of Levi to be their substitutes. How did this picture the person and work of the Messiah? Cf. Rom 8:29; Heb 1:6; Mark 10:45.

Numbers 2:1 – 3:51
Focus Text: Num 3:12–13, 40–51

Tuesday, February 28

Just as every able-bodied Levite man had his task of serving or carrying, so also every member of the Body of Christ has his or her place to serve.

Numbers 4:1 – 5:31
Focus Text: Num 4:46–48

January 2023

Verse of the Month:
“Abraham believed the Lord, and he credited it to him as righteousness.” Genesis 15:6

Week 1

Sunday, January 1

How did Adam and Eve go from Paradise Gained to Paradise Lost? Even as God proclaimed and enforced the painful consequences of sin, He showed grace. How?

Genesis 1:1-3:24
Focus Text: Foundational for the whole Story, the first three chapters of Genesis are “must read” material.

Monday, January 2

What broke God’s heart? How did He respond?

Genesis 4:1-5:32
1 Chronicles 1:1-4
Genesis 6:1-22
Focus Text: Gen 6:1-8

Tuesday, January 3

Today we encounter for the first time the important term “covenant.” In the ancient world, a covenant was a legal, binding agreement between two parties that brought them into a special relationship, which was defined by promises and obligations. After the flood, how did God plan for the earth and living things to continue His Story?

Genesis 7:1-10:5
1 Chronicles 1:5-7
Genesis 10:6-20
1 Chronicles 1:8-16
Genesis 10:21-30
1 Chronicles 1:17-23
Genesis 10:31-32
Focus Text: Gen 8:1-22

Wednesday, January 4

How does God respond to mankind’s rejection of His plan and their futile attempt to replace Him? Don’t miss God’s offer of a covenant to Abraham, as these promises set the trajectory and drive the rest of The Story.

Genesis 11:1-26
1 Chronicles 1:24-27
Genesis 11:27-14:24
Focus Text: Gen 12:1-8

Thursday, January 5

How did Abraham, now old and “childless,” respond to God’s assurance that he would have an heir, and why is this response significant? Even though God ratifies His covenant with Abraham through a dramatic and bloody ceremony, in what ways does the covenant appear threatened?

Genesis 15:1 – 17:27
Focus Text: Gen 15:1-6

Friday, January 6

Who were the three mysterious “men” who visited Abraham (see 18:1, as well as Hebrews 13:2, for the answer) and what promise did they convey? How do we see both God’s grace and truth, His mercy and judgment, acted on in today’s passages?

Genesis 18:1-21:7
Genesis 18:1-19

Saturday, January 7

An Old Testament romance? How is this different from today’s courtship?

Genesis 21:8 – 23:20
Genesis 11:32
Genesis 24:1-67
Focus Text: Gen 24:34-48

Week 2

Sunday, January 8

Throughout The Story of the Bible we see God’s sovereignty over human events coupled with human decisions for which they are responsible. Watch how this plays out in the lives of Esau and Jacob.

Genesis 25:1-4
1 Chronicles 1:32-33
Genesis 25:5-6, 12-18
1 Chron 1:28-31, 34
Genesis 25:19-26, 7-11
Focus Text: Gen 25:19-26

Monday, January 9

The Hebrew name Jacob has several meanings, including “deceiver” or “supplanter” (someone who usurps). How does Jacob live up to his name in these chapters?

Genesis 25:27 – 28:5
Genesis 27:1-40

Tuesday, January 10

Through a dream, God repeats to Jacob the same covenant promises he had made to Abraham. Which of those promises takes a concrete step towards fulfillment in these chapters?

Genesis 28:6 – 30:24
Focus Text: Gen 28:1-22

Wednesday, January 11

What do these chapters tell us about Jacob’s messed-up family relations and about Rachel’s confused spiritual life? How do we see God working out His plan in spite of (and even through) messy lives?

Genesis 30:25 – 31:55
Focus Text: Gen 31:1-18

Thursday, January 12

A theophany is a visible manifestation of God. How does God appear to Jacob?

Genesis 32:1 – 35:27
Focus Text: Gen 32:22-32

Friday, January 13

One reason genealogies play a big role in The Story of the Bible is that God cares about the nations. Here we see the backstory on the nation of Edom, which hangs on the edges of The Story but still gets its own prophetic book (Obadiah).

Genesis 36:1-19
1 Chronicles 1:35-37
Genesis 36:20-30
1 Chronicles 1:38-42
Genesis 36:31-43
1 Chronicles 1:43-2:2
Focus Text: Gen 35:1-15

Saturday, January 14

About Joseph, the text repeatedly tells us: “The Lord was with him.” One thing that phrase can’t mean is that Joseph’s life was without disappointment or hardship. How does Joseph’s life evidence God’s presence?

Genesis 37:1 – 38:30
1 Chronicles 2:3-6, 8
Genesis 39:1-23
Focus Text: Gen 39:1-23

Week 3

Sunday, January 15

God had promised Abraham that “all peoples of the earth” would be blessed through him. How is this promise partially fulfilled through Joseph’s rise to power?

Genesis 40:1-23
Genesis 35:28-29
Genesis 41:1-57
Focus Text: Gen 41:1-45

Monday, January 16

Before revealing his identity to his brothers, Joseph first tests them. What convinces Joseph that they changed (keep an eye on Judah)?

Genesis 42:1 – 45:15
Focus Text: Gen 44:1 – 45:15

Tuesday, January 17

The providential work of God and the personal experience of people are not mutually exclusive realities. How do we encounter both in today’s reading?

Genesis 45:16 – 47:27
Focus Text: Gen 46:25-34

Wednesday, January 18

Genesis concludes with a significant prophecy (49:10) and a profound theological statement (50:20). Both say something about God’s sovereignty and goodness, inspiring trust.

Genesis 47:28 – 50:26
Focus Text: Gen 50:12-26

Thursday, January 19

As one of the oldest books in the Bible, Job wrestles with one of life’s oldest questions: Why do bad things happen to good people? Before the human actors start processing this conundrum, we readers get a glimpse behind the curtain at the broader, spiritual context. Warning: Although Job and his friends communicate plenty of wisdom in this book, much of it is misapplied when it comes to Job’s situation. The book of Job, it turns out, serves as a corrective to an overly simplistic, formulaic understanding of life.

Job 1:1 – 4:21
Focus Text: Job 1:1-22

Friday, January 20

In his suffering and out of his limited perspective, Job asks God a lot of questions. It’s fine to ask God questions, but not all questions are equally legitimate. Look for questions that highlight our deepest needs and foreshadow what God will do. For example: “Why do you not pardon my offenses and forgive my sins?” (7:21).

Job 5:1 – 7:21
Focus Text: Job 7:1-21

Saturday, January 21

Although he does not understand the source or cause of his suffering, Job maintains a high view of God. At the same time, Job voices to God the longings and hopes of the human predicament: “If only there were someone to mediate between us.”

Job 8:1 – 11:20
Focus Text: Job 9:1-35

Week 4

Sunday, January 22

Like Job, we all search for insight during the storms of life. We wonder, “Where is God in the midst of chaos?”

Job 12:1 – 14:22
Focus Text: Job 12:13-25

Monday,January 23

Deep suffering becomes more burdensome when so-called spiritual advisors add troubles to the soul. When God seems angry to whom shall we turn?

Job 15:1 – 18:21
Focus Text: Job 16:1-5

Tuesday, January 24

Abiding hope bursts forth during unlikely times, even when life is troublesome.

Job 19:1 – 21:34
Focus Text: Job 19:23-27

Wednesday, January 25

Bildad proclaims that a human being should be considered, “only a worm.” Consider the contrast between Bildad and the psalmist in Psalm 8:3-9.

Job 22:1 – 25:6
Focus Text: Job 25:1-6

Thursday, January 26

While searching for wisdom Job provides specific insights. He also admits that complete answers remain elusive.

Job 26:1 – 29:25
Focus Text: Job 28:1-29

Friday, January 27

A spiritual inventory before God, in honest review of your life, may look like the words of this passage.

Job 30:1 – 31:40
Focus Text: Job 31:1-40

Saturday, January 28

A younger man who has been silent finally speaks, providing a truthful and (mostly) spiritually-accurate statement.

Job 32:1 – 34:37
Focus Text: Job 34:12-15

Week 5

Sunday, January 29

Today’s text records Elihu’s parting shot in his accusations against Job. You won’t be surprised by how thoroughly Job’s accuser misunderstands God’s silence when people are oppressed. But you’ll be delighted when Elihu unexpectedly switches gears and stands in awe of how great God is.

Job 35:1 – 37:24
Focus Text: Job 37:14-24

Monday, January 30

Prepare to be shocked with what happens next. After the long dialogue between Job and his so-called friends—as they piled on more and more questions about Job’s suffering—God turned the tables and pounded Job with questions of his own. “Who do you think you are, Job, questioning me?!” (Don’t miss Job’s humble reply: 40:3-5.)

Job 38:1 – 40:5
Focus Text: Job 38:1-21

Tuesday, January 31

Following a description of two of the strongest, most unearthly creatures imaginable. God challenged Job, “Can you make a pet out of such monsters? I can; I created them!” With that, Job’s story comes to a stunning and unexpected climax. He regretfully repented that he had been speaking to God out of complete ignorance. And in a special measure of grace, God more than restored what Job had lost at the beginning of the story. Amazing!

Job 40:6 – 42:17
Focus Text: Job 42:1-11

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