The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / AN UNSELFISH ATTITUDE

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 365 AN UNSELFISH ATTITUDE The Bible does not speak clearly about every specific issue people encounter in this life. Paul recognized this and penned for his readers a key principle to follow in those matters not specifically addressed. In Romans 14, Paul laid out the law of liberty in which the Christian chooses not to exercise all the freedom at their disposal, but instead processes decisions about debatable matters based on what's best for their brothers and sisters. The first four verses of chapter 15 summarize and close out that section of the book and provide the true fuel for such an attitude. When a Christian faces a questionable matter, one in which they are not constrained by their conscience or guided by a clear biblical mandate, they should be willing to forgo their personal freedom for the sake of a brother or sister. This is what Jesus modeled for us. He did not live to benefit himself, but instead willingly and unselfishly gave himself over to insult and injury for the sake of others (1Pe 2:23). For those who follow Jesus, the same attitude is expected - being willing to give up our freedom for the edification of another. Jesus, please help me make decisions based on what is best for my brothers and sisters, what is best for your kingdom. Amen. Romans 15:1-4 NASB 1 Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength and not just please ourselves. 2 Each of us is to please his neighbor for his good, to his edification. 3 For even Christ did not please Himself; but as it is written, " the reproaches of those who reproached you fell on me ." 4 For whatever was written in earlier times was written for our instruction, so that through perseverance and the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / GIVING OUR ALL TO JESUS

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 363 of 365 GIVING OUR ALL TO JESUS The sudden deaths of Ananias and Sapphira are jarring at first glance. After all, the couple voluntarily gave up part of their profits to the church, so what could possibly warrant their deaths? The problem was that they lied about their gift and withheld money for themselves, desiring the status of the large donation and the appearance of radical generosity in the eyes of the apostles and the other members of the church. Furthermore, Peter says that they allowed Satan to fill their hearts (5:3). They lied to the Holy Spirit (5:4), who had filled their community of believers. In the midst of the church's miraculous growth, remarkable unity and amazing gospel message, Ananias and Sapphira's deceitful plan stood as the antithesis of the church's faith-filled generosity and brotherly love. The Good Shepherd refuses to tolerate wolves roaming freely among his sheep. In contrast, the preceding story of Barnabas (4:36 - 37) reveals the greater truth that authentic allegiance to Jesus is characterized by the kind of cheerful generosity that both honors God and cares for his people. May those who follow Jesus be so struck by his worth, so confident of his care and so committed to his ways that they likewise "seek first his kingdom and his righteousness" (Mt 6:33). Jesus, help me to seek first your kingdom and your righteousness. I want others to see my generosity and know it must come from you. Amen. Acts 5:1-10 NASB 1 But a man named Ananias, with his wife Sapphira, sold a piece of property, 2 and kept back some of the price for himself, with his wife's full knowledge, and bringing a portion of it, he laid it at the apostles' feet. 3 But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back some of the price of the land? 4 While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not under your control? Why is it that you have conceived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God." 5 And as he heard these words, Ananias fell down and breathed his last; and great fear came over all who heard of it. 6The young men got up and covered him up, and after carrying him out, they buried him. 7 Now there elapsed an interval of about three hours, and his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 And Peter responded to her, "Tell me whether you sold the land for such and such a price?" And she said, "Yes, that was the price." 9 Then Peter said to her, "Why is it that you have agreed together to put the Spirit of the Lord to the test? Behold, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out as well. " 10And immediately she fell at his feet and breathed her last, and the young men came in and found her dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / BEARING WITNESS TO JESUS

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 362 of 365 BEARING WITNESS TO JESUS In Acts 3, Luke focuses on the importance of Jesus' name by documenting the disciples' empowerment to heal people "in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth" (3:6). This theme is seen throughout the book as the disciples continue to perform miracles and baptize in Jesus' name, as well as witnessing to and suffering "disgrace for the Name" (e.g., 5:41; 9:16; 10:48; 21:13). Not only is their power to do these things directly sourced from Jesus himself, but also their purpose is, unquestionably, to proclaim Jesus' name. The core of discipleship is always centered on the person of Christ, nothing else. The mission is always to know Jesus and to make him known. Jesus' disciples give, serve, heal, witness, are empowered, and live for Jesus - not for their own glory, but to bring glory and honor to his name above all others (Ac 4:12; Php 2:9 - 11; Rev 15:4). Jesus, help me to know you and make you known. I want to bring glory and honor to your name. Amen. Acts 3:1-10 NASB 1 Now Peter and John were going up to the temple at the ninth hour, the hour of prayer. 2 And a man who had been lame from his mother's womb was being carried along, whom they used to set down every day at the gate of the temple which is called Beautiful, in order to beg alms of those who were entering the temple. 3 When he saw Peter and John about to go into the temple, he began asking to receive alms. 4 But Peter, along with John, fixed his gaze on him and said, "Look at us!" 5 And he began to give them his attention, expecting to receive something from them. 6 But Peter said, "I do not possess silver and gold, but what I do have I give to you: In the name of Jesus Christ the Nazarene-walk!" 7 And seizing him by the right hand, he raised him up; and immediately his feet and his ankles were strengthened. 8 With a leap he stood upright and began to walk; and he entered the temple with them, walking and leaping and praising God. 9 And all the people saw him walking and praising God; 10 and they were taking note of him as being the one who used to sit at the Beautiful Gate of the temple to beg alms, and they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / A NEW COMMAND

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 361 of 365 A NEW COMMAND During the Passover meal, Jesus, the master and teacher of the twelve disciples, got up, wrapped a towel around his waist and began to wash the disciples' feet. This was a dirty job normally reserved for a lowly servant. But Jesus, the obvious leader of this group, decided to wash feet to serve his disciples and make a profound point. While it's true that the disciples had dirty feet, Jesus' motive was far beyond the circumstances. The disciples knew this was an important night, yet none of them had bothered to wash their own, much less one another's, feet. Jesus realized this was the perfect opportunity to show them that the way of his kingdom is very different from the way of earthly kingdoms. Jesus came to serve and love, and so he gave his disciples a new command: "Love one another"; he then went on to say, "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another" (13:34 - 35). It's this kind of aspiration that Jesus wanted his disciples to pursue; its countercultural nature is just as radical today. God's love in believers' lives is to be evident as they show his love to a lost and broken world today, pointing toward a kingdom that is not of this world (Jn 18:36). Jesus, thank you for your example of love and service. Please help me to love my brothers and sisters the way that you have loved me. Please help me to love the lost by leading them to the cross. Amen. John 13:12-17 NASB 12 So when He had washed their feet, and taken His garments and reclined at the table again, He said to them, "Do you know what I have done to you?  13 You call Me Teacher and Lord; and you are right, for so I am.  14 If I then, the Lord and the Teacher, washed your feet, you also ought to wash one another's feet.  15 For I gave you an example that you also should do as I did to you.  16 Truly, truly, I say to you, a slave is not greater than his master, nor is one who is sent greater than the one who sent him.  17 If you know these things, you are blessed if you do them. John 13:34-35 NASB 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another.  35 By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / FAITH AND UNBELIEF

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 360 of 365 FAITH AND UNBELIEF Faith is different from feelings. Feelings are based on circumstances, and they change like the weather. Faith involves acting, trusting and believing that God is real, at work and working for believers' good - regardless of what one may happen to feel at the moment. In fact, sometimes faith leads believers in the opposite direction of feelings. The woman in this passage had been suffering for a long time. As her disorder involved blood, she was perpetually "unclean" (according to Jewish law), and as a result had likely been ostracized by her community. When she heard about the healing power of Jesus, she boldly braved the large crowd and reached out to him in faith. His response: "Daughter, your faith has healed you" (Mk 5:34). God invites people to faithfully trust him for all of life (Pr 3:5 - 6). The way of Jesus is the way of trust. All throughout his life on earth, Jesus demonstrated absolute faith in his Father and challenged his followers to exercise the same kind of faith. For many reasons, people are prone to doubt. Modern western culture is fraught with skepticism. The contemporary search for truth says, "Understand in order to believe." And against this thinking, Jesus has always maintained, "Believe in order to understand." In the struggle with doubt and unbelief, Jesus encourages people, "Don't be afraid; just believe" (Mk 5:36). The way of Jesus is the way of trusting God every day, for this life and the next. Jesus, please don't let me get distracted by feelings, which can be so fickle. I want to believe in you, trust in you and surrender to you, even when I don't feel like it. Amen. Mark 5:24-34 NASB 24 And He went off with him; and a large crowd was following Him and pressing in on Him. 25 A woman who had had a hemorrhage for twelve years, 26 and had endured much at the hands of many physicians, and had spent all that she had and was not helped at all, but rather had grown worse- 27 after hearing about Jesus, she came up in the crowd behind Him and touched His cloak. 28 For she thought, "If I just touch His garments, I will get well." 29 Immediately the flow of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of her affliction. 30 Immediately Jesus, perceiving in Himself that the power proceeding from Him had gone forth, turned around in the crowd and said, "Who touched My garments?"  31 And His disciples said to Him, "You see the crowd pressing in on You, and You say, 'Who touched Me?'" 32 And He looked around to see the woman who had done this. 33 But the woman fearing and trembling, aware of what had happened to her, came and fell down before Him and told Him the whole truth. 34 And He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your affliction." Proverbs 3:5-6 NASB 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart And do not lean on your own understanding. 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / JUSTIFIED

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 359 of 365 JUSTIFIED The word justify is a legal term. Behind that word is a courtroom setting, and in this case, God is the judge who has on the docket before him the guilt or innocence of every person ever born. Paul has already in chapters 1 - 3 made it clear that the guilt of all humanity is not in question. But here is an amazing declaration: despite our clear guilt, God the Judge declares his people righteous. This happens not only because of God's great love, but because God has demonstrated his justice through the death of Jesus. When someone believes in Jesus, God gives that person the righteousness of Christ and in so doing declares them to be right before God. In other words, God declaring our innocence is not an exception to justice because justice was fully dispensed on Jesus instead of on the sinner who repents. This is truly amazing grace. Because God's people have been justified by faith, they have eternal life and peace with God. Of course, if someone can only have peace with God through faith, then the opposite is also true. Outside of a personal faith commitment, all people stand in eternal conflict with God. Jesus, I believe that you died so that I can have eternal peace with God. Thank you for sacrificing yourself for me, and please help me to share your love and mercy with others. Amen. Romans 5:1 NASB 1 Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ,

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD'S GRACE

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 358 of 365 THE GOOD NEWS OF GOD'S GRACE Telling people about Jesus is a joy for those who realize what God has saved them from and what God has saved them to do. Paul laid out the single ambition of his life: to testify to the good news of God's grace. Grace refers to the love God shows to us through Jesus. We don't deserve it, and we could never earn it. Every person who ever lived is responsible for the death of Jesus (Ro 4:25; 5:8). Our sin made the cross necessary. Each of us is guilty and deserving of punishment forever. But God pursues people in his love (Lk 19:10) and freely forgives people when they turn to Jesus in repentance (Heb 9:14). Paul invited the church to join him in sharing about the grace of God: "Join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life - not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time" (2Ti 1:8 - 9). God has saved his people from eternal punishment by his generous and merciful grace. For those who remember that they are saved to new life in Jesus by his grace alone, sharing about this Good News is an incredible joy! Jesus, please show me someone today whom I can minister to. I want to tell someone else about you. Amen. Acts 20:24 NASB 24 But I do not consider my life of any account as dear to myself, so that I may finish my course and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify solemnly of the gospel of the grace of God.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / TRUE LOVE

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 357 of 365 TRUE LOVE Even though the disciples had seen the resurrected Jesus, they did not really know what they were supposed to do next. For three years they had been following Jesus and carrying out his ministry, but now Jesus was not with them on a regular basis. That being the case, it only made sense for the disciples to return to what they knew: fishing. Peter, in particular, had not seen Jesus for more than a few moments since he had denied knowing him three times in Jesus' hour of greatest need (Mt 26:69 - 75; Lk 22:54 - 62; Jn 18:15 - 27). Usually when a person knows that they have hurt someone, or done something to wrong someone, they are not eager to see that person. Yet Peter was so confident in Jesus' love and forgiveness that as soon as he realized it was Jesus standing on the shore, he jumped from the boat and swam to shore so that he could be face to face with his Lord. There Jesus lovingly and gently reinstated his bold disciple and went on to use him greatly for the sake of his kingdom. This story reminds all believers that those who repent of the pain they have caused Jesus and others in the past can have full confidence that his arms of grace are open to all who are willing to run into them. Jesus, thank you for restoring Peter and using him mightily. Thank you for restoring me, and please use me too. I want to do good things for you. Amen. John 21:15-19 NASB 15 So when they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me more than these?" He said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He said to him, "Tend My lambs."  16 He said to him again a second time, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me?" He said to Him, "Yes, Lord; You know that I love You." He said to him, "Shepherd My sheep."  17 He said to him the third time, "Simon, son of John, do you love Me?" Peter was grieved because He said to him the third time, "Do you love Me?" And he said to Him, "Lord, You know all things; You know that I love You." Jesus said to him, "Tend My sheep. Our Times Are in His Hand 18 Truly, truly, I say to you, when you were younger, you used to gird yourself and walk wherever you wished; but when you grow old, you will stretch out your hands and someone else will gird you, and bring you where you do not wish to go. "  19 Now this He said, signifying by what kind of death he would glorify God. And when He had spoken this, He said to him, "Follow Me!"

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / JESUS AND MERCY

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 356 of 365 JESUS AND MERCY The Greek word translated "have mercy" can also mean "to be favorably inclined." This word is used only one other time in the New Testament, and there it describes how Christ made reconciliation possible between God and humanity by his sacrifice on the cross (Heb 2:17). The noun form appears in 1 John 2:2 and 4:10; in both places, Jesus is called the atoning sacrifice for our sins. Jesus, as our sacrifice, paid the price our sins required, thereby making it possible for God to turn aside his righteous wrath. The tax collector in Jesus' story understood his sinful condition and asked God for mercy. Thankfully, God does not save people because of their righteous acts but solely through his rich mercy (Eph 2:4 - 5; Titus 3:5). Later, the apostle Peter would write that in God's great mercy, he has given believers new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (1Pe 1:3). When people cry out to God for mercy, God's merciful response is Jesus. Jesus, thank you for your mercy, which I do not deserve. Thank you for giving me a new birth into life with you. Amen. Luke 18:9-14 NASB 9 And He also told this parable to some people who trusted in themselves that they were righteous, and viewed others with contempt: 10 "Two men went up into the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector.  11 The Pharisee stood and was praying this to himself: 'God, I thank You that I am not like other people: swindlers, unjust, adulterers, or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week; I pay tithes of all that I get.'  13 But the tax collector, standing some distance away, was even unwilling to lift up his eyes to heaven, but was beating his breast, saying, 'God, be merciful to me, the sinner!'  14 I tell you, this man went to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but he who humbles himself will be exalted." Hebrews 2:17 NASB 17 Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people. Ephesians 2:4-5 NASB 4 But God, being rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us, 5 even when we were dead in our transgressions, made us alive together with Christ (by grace you have been saved), Titus 3:5 NASB 5 He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit,

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / MAKING A U-TURN

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 355 of 365 MAKING A U-TURN Repentance involves conscious sorrow and regret over the former way of life and a change of course to a new direction. In short, it's like making a U-turn, a 180-degree about-face away from the path one has been following. Mere remorse over sin is not enough, and simply acknowledging sin without turning from it only leads to death. God requires this change in people because sin, without God's intervening grace, forcefully and destructively controls people's lives. The first step of change is simply acknowledging the sin and fostering the desire to change - that is where repentance starts. God calls people to repentance, and the Bible contains some gripping examples of people who repented in prayer (Ezr 9 - 10; Ps 51). God's desire is that all people will repent of their sin and live a life in relationship with him. He issued this call to repentance through prophets such as Ezekiel, John the Baptist, Jesus and Jesus' disciples. To those who confess their sin and turn to Jesus, God promises forgiveness and eternal life. The call to repentance is still given today, and those who heed it find God's grace and peace in this life. Jesus, thank you for the gift of repentance. Help me to help others see their need for it. Amen. Ezekiel 18:30 NASB 30 "Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, each according to his conduct," declares the Lord God . "Repent and turn away from all your transgressions, so that iniquity may not become a stumbling block to you.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / FORGETTING WHERE YOU COME FROM

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 354 of 365 FORGETTING WHERE YOU COME FROM God's people forgot all that God had done for them. They became proud and arrogant, and God loved them too much to let them remain in that pitiful condition. Sometimes hard words are required to break a hard heart, and that is exactly what God provided here. God's people, living in Jerusalem, had forgotten where they came from. God reminded them of their hopeless past and all that he did for them to bring them to where they were: he had rescued them like an abandoned newborn child, unwashed and left exposed to the elements to die. A baby like that is utterly dependent upon the mercy of another to intervene and save, and God reminded them that he alone had rescued his people and given them life and blessing. Centuries later Jesus spoke harsh words to the self-assured people living in Jerusalem. He warned them against the dangers of taking their right standing with God for granted. Jesus even went as far as to tell the religious leaders that they did not align themselves with God, but Satan (Jn 8:44) - harsh words for hard hearts. Because of their sin, the religious leaders in Jesus' day had once again become like a helpless infant, abandoned and at the mercy of the elements. Believers today also do well to remember God's mercy to them in Jesus' work on the cross. Remembering where they came from and understanding where they are in Christ leads believers to humility and gratitude. Jesus, protect me from the sin of self-assurance. I know that without you, I would be nothing. Amen. Ezekiel 16:1-6 NASB 1 Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying, 2 "Son of man, make known to Jerusalem her abominations 3 and say, 'Thus says the Lord God to Jerusalem, "Your origin and your birth are from the land of the Canaanite, your father was an Amorite and your mother a Hittite. 4 As for your birth, on the day you were born your navel cord was not cut, nor were you washed with water for cleansing; you were not rubbed with salt or even wrapped in cloths. 5 No eye looked with pity on you to do any of these things for you, to have compassion on you. Rather you were thrown out into the open field, for you were abhorred on the day you were born. 6 "When I passed by you and saw you squirming in your blood, I said to you while you were in your blood, 'Live!' Yes, I said to you while you were in your blood, 'Live!' John 8:44 NASB 44 You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature, for he is a liar and the father of lies.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / THE WORST SINNER

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 353 of 365 THE WORST SINNER Although he was one of the most devout and influential Christians to ever live, Paul described himself as "the worst" of sinners. While this statement might at first appear hyperbolic, Paul believed it to be an accurate self-assessment because he knew his own heart. Paul knew not only every sinful action he had committed, but also his sinful thoughts and motivations that were hidden from everyone else. When he examined himself, he saw the depths of his personal battle with sin (Ro 7:13 - 25). Likewise, if we are honest with ourselves, we will assess our lives the same way: we are the worst of sinners. While we might make a futile guess at the sinful thoughts and motivations in others, we know the depths of our own sinful heart. Jesus referenced this reality when he told his hearers to mind the plank in their own eye before removing the speck of sawdust in another's (Mt 7:3). Yet, the recognition of this truth should not lead to depression but worship. Jesus came to seek and save the lost; Paul knew this meant that Jesus came to save him. This fueled his passionate desire to spend his life spreading the gospel. In the same way, our honest recognition of the depths of our own sinfulness should lead us to praise Jesus for the mercy he has shown us. And as a gesture of gratitude for our salvation, we are to share this message of grace with all who will listen, just as Paul did. Jesus, I will never understand why you chose me, why you thought I was worth saving, but I thank you for your mercy. Please help me share your mercy with others. Amen. 1 Timothy 1:12-17 NASB 12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has strengthened me, because He considered me faithful, putting me into service, 13 even though I was formerly a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent aggressor. Yet I was shown mercy because I acted ignorantly in unbelief; 14 and the grace of our Lord was more than abundant, with the faith and love which are found in Christ Jesus. 15 It is a trustworthy statement, deserving full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, among whom I am foremost of all.  16 Yet for this reason I found mercy, so that in me as the foremost, Jesus Christ might demonstrate His perfect patience as an example for those who would believe in Him for eternal life. 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen. Matthew 7:3 NASB 3 Why do you look at the speck that is in your brother's eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / DEVOTED TO PRAYER

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 352 of 365 DEVOTED TO PRAYER Almost every Christian knows that prayer is important. Even many unbelievers think prayer is a good thing. Devoting oneself to prayer, however, is a challenge for many people. Nevertheless, this is exactly what Paul instructed the church at Colossae to do as he concluded his letter. Paul gave an immediate explanation of what he meant by "devote yourselves to prayer," when he followed up with "being watchful and thankful" (v. 2). Remaining watchful for the "flaming arrows of the evil one" (Eph 6:16) keeps believers in a posture of prayerful dependence upon God. Paul then directed the church to pray for his proclamation of Jesus. Specifically, he needed opportunities (open doors) and God's help in making sure he proclaimed the mystery of Jesus with clarity. Jesus is the very One who makes prayer possible. Jesus paved the way for prayer to be possible by removing the sin barrier between God and humanity through his death, burial and resurrection. The author of Hebrews said it this way: "Since we have a great priest over the house of God, let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water" (Heb 10:21 - 22). Jesus makes prayer possible, allowing Christians to draw near to God with the confidence that God will hear and act according to his will. Jesus, thank you for the gift of prayer. Please help me to give it the proper place of priority in my life. Amen. Colossians 4:2-6 NASB 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving; 3 praying at the same time for us as well, that God will open up to us a door for the word, so that we may speak forth the mystery of Christ, for which I have also been imprisoned; 4 that I may make it clear in the way I ought to speak. 5 Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. 6 Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / GIVING

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 351 of 365 GIVING Christ's followers have received the most incredible gift imaginable in the love, grace and mercy of God. It costs them nothing, but it cost Jesus everything. Not only has Christ given his followers life and breath, but by his death and resurrection, he has defeated sin and death. Because of this, when it comes to giving, strict percentages are a thing of the past and Christians do not live under the weight of obligation. Instead, Paul makes it clear that believers are to give generously and may enjoy a generous return. What is more, the attitude of the giver is more important than the size of their gift. Giving is intended to be an act of worship - the believer's opportunity to respond to the extravagant grace and glory of God. God generously meets the needs of his people, both physical and spiritual. Giving is an opportunity for his people to use those gifts to return honor and glory to him. Just as he was extravagant in his giving, so too Christ's followers have the opportunity to be extravagant in their gifts back to him. Jesus, help me to be a generous, cheerful giver. Please let my gifts be used to further your kingdom and spread your love. Amen. 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 NASB 6 Now this I say, he who sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and he who sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. 7 Each one must do just as he has purposed in his heart, not grudgingly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed;

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / THE LORD'S SUPPER

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 350 of 365 THE LORD'S SUPPER This passage outlines some of the clearest instruction concerning the church's worship gatherings. While diverse understandings of the Lord's Supper often separate churches from one another, the Lord's Supper is intended to be a visible display of the unity of the church. In Paul's instruction, the church as a whole is to proclaim Christ's death (v. 26). Although the exact role and function the Lord's Supper is to play in a believers' life remains a matter of debate among Christians, Paul makes it very clear that the Lord's Supper can be taken incorrectly (v. 27). Paul wrote that those who celebrate the meal should examine their lives prior to partaking of the bread and the cup (v. 28). This examination includes both personal and corporate elements. The recognition of "the body of Christ" in this passage (v. 29) included both Jesus' body and the church, outlined in the chapter that follows (1Co 12:12 - 27). Therefore, at the Supper, believers are to examine their lives concerning sin toward Christ and any offense toward one another. At the communion table, believers celebrate with other believers their unity in Christ, renewing their commitment to God, his people and his mission. Jesus, I thank you for the communion table and ask that I always come to it with a repentant, humble heart. Amen. 1 Corinthians 11:27-34 NASB 27 Therefore whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner, shall be guilty of the body and the blood of the Lord. 28 But a man must examine himself, and in so doing he is to eat of the bread and drink of the cup. 29 For he who eats and drinks, eats and drinks judgment to himself if he does not judge the body rightly. 30 For this reason many among you are weak and sick, and a number sleep. 31 But if we judged ourselves rightly, we would not be judged. 32 But when we are judged, we are disciplined by the Lord so that we will not be condemned along with the world. 33 So then, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. 34 If anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, so that you will not come together for judgment. The remaining matters I will arrange when I come.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / BENEDICTION

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 349 of 365 BENEDICTION How does one conclude the greatest theological treatise ever written? For Paul, the answer was to refer back to what he had already said. Indeed, this is what Paul's ministry was, as he was committed to preaching only Christ and Christ crucified time and time again (1Co 2:2). This good-news message is the only lasting hope for humanity. In his final benediction to the letter of Romans, Paul again reminds readers of the great and mysterious gospel of Jesus Christ, which is immensely available to all who believe, whether Jew or Gentile. This is the central storyline of all Scripture, and now through the work of Jesus, God's plans are fulfilled. Appropriately, this letter ends in the same way that all of history will end: on bended knee, eyes on Christ alone, with Paul - and by extension, us as well - giving glory to God for what he has done and what he will surely do in the future. Jesus, I thank you for the simplicity of Paul's message. I too want each word I write or speak to point to you. Amen. Romans 16:25-27 NASB 25 Now to Him who is able to establish you according to my gospel and the preaching of Jesus Christ, according to the revelation of the mystery which has been kept secret for long ages past, 26 but now is manifested, and by the Scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the eternal God, has been made known to all the nations, leading to obedience of faith; 27 to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, be the glory forever. Amen. 1 Corinthians 2:2 NASB 2 For I determined to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / PRAYER AS INCENSE

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 348 of 365 PRAYER AS INCENSE In Psalm 141, the psalmist asked God to hear his voice and to accept his prayer "like incense," which is to say a sweet-smelling fragrance. Today, believers can pray with confidence, knowing that God hears their prayers. Hebrews 7:25 says that Jesus "always lives to intercede for them." Jesus serves as the intermediary between believers and God, and he takes the requests of believers and presents them before God. First John 2:1 adds, "We have an advocate with the Father - Jesus Christ, the Righteous One." While the psalmist begged God to hear and accept his prayers, believers today can pray confidently knowing that Jesus will take their prayers to God on their behalf. There is no uncertainty about whether or not God hears the prayers of those who follow him. Jesus made it possible for believers to present their requests to God "in every situation, by prayer and petition" (Php 4:6). The prayers of believers are like incense to God who hears them. Jesus, thank you for taking my requests to the Father, so that my prayers may be like a sweet-smelling fragrance to him. Amen. Psalms 141:1-2 NASB 1 O Lord , I call upon You; hasten to me! Give ear to my voice when I call to You! 2 May my prayer be counted as incense before You;

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / SALVATION IS A MIRACULOUS ACT

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 347 of 365 SALVATION IS A MIRACULOUS ACT Salvation is a miracle. Scripture paints a bleak picture of humanity's spiritual condition. The problem is not just that people are bad. The problem is that people are spiritually dead. Every person needs a spiritual resurrection to be able to know God and live for him. The good news is that Jesus Christ provides spiritual resurrection. In the Bible, circumcision usually refers to the practice of cutting away the foreskin of males on the eighth day after birth, signifying the child's entrance into the Old Testament community of faith. Paul picked up on this well-known imagery when he wrote, "you were also circumcised with a circumcision not performed by human hands" to describe the miraculous act of being made alive spiritually in Christ (v. 11). This echoes the promise made by God in Ezekiel 36:26: "I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh." It is only because Jesus died and rose again that people can experience life today, and the resurrection of their bodies in the future. Anyone can experience spiritual resurrection by placing their faith in Jesus Christ. Jesus does not just help people become better people; he raises people from spiritual death to new life. Salvation is at the hands of God alone. Mankind cannot do any level of work that would bring approval in the sight of God. No ritual, whether ancient or modern, can replace the gracious work of God in the salvation of humanity. Jesus, I was spiritually dead, and you brought my spirit to life. Thank you for this miracle. Thank you for my new spirit and my new heart. Amen. Colossians 2:11-14 NASB 11 and in Him you were also circumcised with a circumcision made without hands, in the removal of the body of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ; 12 having been buried with Him in baptism, in which you were also raised up with Him through faith in the working of God, who raised Him from the dead. 13 When you were dead in your transgressions and the uncircumcision of your flesh, He made you alive together with Him, having forgiven us all our transgressions, 14 having canceled out the certificate of debt consisting of decrees against us, which was hostile to us; and He has taken it out of the way, having nailed it to the cross.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / PERSONAL SAVIOR

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 346 of 365 PERSONAL SAVIOR Jesus is a personal Savior. He came to save the world, and he does that by saving people individually as they trust in him. Jesus is not a distant cosmic deity, unaware of what is happening in his world. Instead, Jesus is intensely and personally aware of and concerned about every detail of our lives. Paul was on trial in front of the Jewish religious leadership of his day. A near-riot broke out, and Paul suffered because of it. These leaders wanted to kill Paul because of the message he shared. In the midst of this hardship, Jesus showed up personally to care for his apostle. Our living Savior physically appeared to Paul and gave him his next assignment. As he wrote in his letter to the Romans (Ro 8:38 - 39), nothing could keep Paul from Jesus. Paul was in a difficult circumstance, but Jesus was aware of it and chose to interact with him personally. While such interactions are not common, they are real. Jesus' awareness and concern for individuals continues today. He is the great God of the universe who has come near to love people individually. Jesus, thank you for calling me by name. Thank you for knowing me personally and for allowing me to know you. I love you. Amen. Acts 23:11 NASB 11 But on the night immediately following, the Lord stood at his side and said, "Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also." Romans 8:38-39 NASB 38 For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, 39nor height, nor depth, nor any other created thing, will be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan / "WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?"

The Jesus Bible Reading Plan

Day 345 of 365 "WHAT MUST I DO TO BE SAVED?" Faith is about trusting in Jesus regardless of daily circumstances. Paul and Silas had been beaten, stripped and thrown in jail for following Jesus (16:22 - 23), but the real test of their faith came in how they responded to their imprisonment. They didn't seek legal action or resort to grumbling; they didn't question God's plan. Instead, they decided to pray and sing to God (16:25). This activity and their attitude must have seemed strange to the other prisoners - and to the jailer! To show his glory through Paul and Silas's circumstances, God sent an earthquake to shake things up. The jailer thought the prisoners had escaped; desperate, he prepared to take his own life: he knew he would be sentenced to death if the prisoners escaped under his watch. Instead of seeking their own welfare, Paul and Silas stayed in the prison and ministered to the jailer. It had to be mind-boggling to see two prisoners respond to his cruelty in such a tender way. He asked the question that is "The Question" for people who have seen God and his people at work: "What must I do to be saved?" (16:30). The answer is simple because the message is clear: "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved" (16:31). Paul was a brilliant theologian, but he also knew that the message of Jesus was beautifully simple, and he was ready to share it clearly in a moment of openness and opportunity. Jesus, thank you for making salvation so simple, so that someone like me can receive it. Amen. Acts 16:25-34 NASB 25 But about midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns of praise to God, and the prisoners were listening to them; 26and suddenly there came a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison house were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened and everyone's chains were unfastened. 27When the jailer awoke and saw the prison doors opened, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself, supposing that the prisoners had escaped. 28 But Paul cried out with a loud voice, saying, "Do not harm yourself, for we are all here!" 29 And he called for lights and rushed in, and trembling with fear he fell down before Paul and Silas, 30 and after he brought them out, he said, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?" The Jailer Converted 31 They said, "Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your household." 32 And they spoke the word of the Lord to him together with all who were in his house. 33 And he took them that very hour of the night and washed their wounds, and immediately he was baptized, he and all his household.  34 And he brought them into his house and set food before them, and rejoiced greatly, having believed in God with his whole household.