Friday, January 31, 2025

New Testament Reading Plan: John 20

While it's easy to look at the Israelites and think, I’d never make a golden calf and worship it, when we examine our lives closely, we realize just how prone we are to fall into the same trap. Whether it's our work, our family, or even our ministry, these good things, if we aren’t careful, can become more important than God. They can become our idols.

But there is a way to keep the good things in life in their proper perspective and our eyes fixed on God—by studying his Word.

Joshua 1:8
“Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do.”

The Bible is a key way God speaks to us. His Word encourages us during difficult periods and guides us as he seeks to transform us.

This week, make a plan to interact with God’s Word daily, not as something to add to your to-do list, but as a way to deepen your relationship with Christ and trust him more.

Choose one of the following plans, or create your own, to make 2025 a year to meet God regularly in his Word:

• Commit to reading The Daily every day next week and journaling on the verses.
• Jump into the New Testament Reading Plan found at the top of each devotion Monday-Friday. (It’s ok if you’re behind, just begin!)
• Join a Group that is studying Scripture this spring.

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for the gift of your Word. It is not a rule book but a way you communicate with and refresh me. Those who delight in it are like trees planted by a river bank—their leaves never wither (Psalm 1:3). Give me the desire to spend time with you through your Word regularly. Grant me wisdom and understanding, and help me draw closer to you. Amen.

Series Theme Verse:

Romans 12:2
Don't copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut