UPDATES AND REVELATIONS
Brenda Lineberger
Today's Scripture: “Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near.” Revelation 1:3, ESV
Theme: Revelation gives us what we need to know to live and trust in the middle, during this life we are living.
EVERY NEW UPDATE
When new smart phones or software updates come out, we’re thrilled. We spend hours learning the basics, then on to the next level. Just when we have it all figured out, here comes an update. For me, that means more to learn. Just as I figure that out, then the next “latest and greatest” tech is introduced. And the process begins again.
Our phones are truly amazing. They hold our schedules, banking, shopping, and a quick way to connect to our family and friends. It’s a dictionary, an encyclopedia, and let’s face it, it’s smarter than we are. But it won’t equip you with what you need to live the joyous life Jesus Christ wants for us. You won’t be taking that phone into eternity. You won’t need it.
FINDING “GREAT AND HIDDEN THINGS”
When I look back at what I thought being a Christian, believing in Christ and following Him looked like, I realize I was so wrong. I thought when you surrendered to Christ, that was pretty much it. So, I set out to read the Bible all the way through, front to back. I did that, but nothing changed. Still, I stayed committed to being in God’s Word and came across Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV): “Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known.” And that changed everything! I asked God to open my eyes and my ears and to give me wisdom and understanding of His Word. And He did!!! If you ask Him, He will! I have found it best to avoid speed reading and instead, treat it like a love story, because it is. It is the greatest love story ever told.
Make It Personal: The whole Bible points to Jesus our Savior! Between Genesis and Revelation, you’ll meet so many saints and sinners, kings and rulers, men of courage and wisdom, the strong and weak, the good and the evil. And you will meet Jesus Christ, God, and the Holy Spirit. It will be the most amazing journey you’ll ever take!
Pray: Lord, open our eyes to see and our ears to hear. Give us wisdom and understanding of Your Holy Word. It is a delight to hear Your whispers in Your Word. I do pray, Lord, that everyone experiences the joy of knowing You. Nothing compares.
Read: Psalm 23, Jeremiah 29:11, 33:3, Luke 11:28
Weekly Memory Verse: “He who testifies to these things says, ‘Surely I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen.” Revelation 22:20-21, ESV