Each day of the year I’ll post verses to read, with the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.
Reading the Bible is helpful in taking next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us, expressed through Jesus.
Please read the verses below, prayerfully consider them, and then my comments may be helpful after those moments.
December 31 Psalm 150 Revelation 22 Nehemiah 13
What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?
Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?
What should you do about that truth?
Let us gather to praise God for the highest quality of who He is and all that He has done. “Let everything that breathes sing praises to the Lord!” We should sing and make music to show our appreciation for God. Let us describe the goodness of God. Let us sing about the greatness of God.
John sees a future end to the curse of sin and the final victory of Jesus Christ over all. John sees a river of life flowing from the throne. John sees eternal worship in the presence of God. John is reassured of the veracity of these visions and his given purpose to instruct people to be prepared for the victorious return of Jesus Christ. Everyone who “lives a lie” will be left outside of God’s presence. We must turn away from sin and turn toward wholehearted devotion to Jesus Christ. God the Holy Spirit calls us in this Way.
Nehemiah and Ezra sought out each of the instructions God had given in years past. They were passionate about following God, according to God’s plan. They ensured that each person would be offered teaching to explain the Scripture. Without Nehemiah’s constant supervision people drifted away from worshipping God, and their financial giving. They directly disobeyed God’s specific commands. Nehemiah confronted them, calling for change. Nehemiah ensured the regular worship of God by his organization of people and resources.