Daily Reading Week 36
Sunday
Luke 15:11-32
DISCOVER:
1. In what areas of my life or relationships do I find myself feeling superior or judgmental toward others? How can I cultivate a more humble and compassionate heart in those situations?
2. Reflect on a time when you struggled to accept someone’s repentance or transformation. What was the root of your resistance, and how can you learn to celebrate the grace of God in their life instead?
3. How can I actively create an environment in my church or community that welcomes those who may feel like outsiders or unworthy? What steps can I take to demonstrate Christ’s love and acceptance to those around me?
RESPOND:
As we reflect on the parable of the Prodigal Son, a familiar story emerges of grace, redemption, and the love of a father who welcomes back his wayward child. However, nestled within this narrative is another character whose attitude often goes unnoticed—the older brother. His response reveals a heart that struggles with pride, entitlement, and a lack of understanding of grace.
The older brother stands outside the feast, refusing to join the celebration over his brother’s return. He is angry and resentful, feeling overlooked despite his years of loyalty and hard work. “Look! All these years I’ve been slaving for you and never disobeyed your orders,” he protests (Luke 15:29). His words drip with bitterness, revealing a heart that has equated obedience with earning love. How easy it is for us to slip into this mindset, believing that our faithfulness somehow makes us superior to those who have wandered far from the path.
If we are not careful, we may adopt a holier-than-thou attitude, just like the older brother. In our churches, it is all too easy to close the doors to the most notorious sinners—the ones whose stories are filled with shame, regret, and rebellion. We may find ourselves thinking, “How could they ever be worthy of grace?” Yet, in doing so, we miss the very essence of the Gospel. Each of us has sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23). Our worthiness is not determined by our actions but by the unmerited grace of our Father.
The older brother’s failure to rejoice in his brother’s return is a reminder of the danger of self-righteousness. He cannot celebrate the grace extended to his brother because he has failed to recognize his own need for grace. Like the older brother, we can become so consumed with our own righteousness that we forget the depth of our unworthiness. If we cling to our perceived superiority, we risk missing out on the joy of seeing lives transformed by the love of Christ.
Today, let us reflect on our own hearts. Are we holding onto bitterness like the older brother? Are we quick to judge those who have wandered away? Or are we willing to extend grace, understanding that we are all in need of redemption? Let us remember that our journey with Christ is not about our own achievements but about the lavish gift of grace that has been poured out upon us.
Monday
Psalm 118
DISCOVER:
1. Reflect on a time when you faced rejection for your faith. How did that experience affect your relationship with God, and what lessons did you learn about your identity as His child during that time?
2. In what areas of your life do you need to reaffirm Jesus as your cornerstone? How can you build your life more firmly on His teachings and promises, especially when faced with challenges or opposition?
3. How can you cultivate a spirit of joy and faithfulness in the face of rejection or alienation? What practical steps can you take to encourage yourself and others in your faith community when facing similar struggles?
RESPOND:
David’s song of thanksgiving in Psalm 118 embodies a theme of rejection leading to exaltation—a theme that finds its ultimate fulfillment in Jesus Christ. The imagery of the stone rejected by the builders reminds me that what the world often overlooks, God cherishes and elevates.
Jesus was rejected by His own nation, the very people He came to save. They turned away from Him, preferring the darkness of their traditions over the light of His truth. Yet, in that rejection, God had a plan. Jesus became the cornerstone of a new covenant, a solid foundation upon which the Church stands. As we embrace our identity as God’s children, we are blessed to be part of this divine construction—built on the very cornerstone that was once dismissed.
In my own life, there are moments when I feel the weight of rejection, especially when I stand firm in my faith. Whether it’s a casual dismissal of my beliefs in conversation or a more profound feeling of alienation from friends or family, the sting of rejection can be painful. However, in those moments, I am reminded of 2 Timothy 2:12, which states, “If we endure, we will also reign with him.” This promise is an anchor for my soul. It encourages me to remain steadfast in my faith, knowing that in Christ, I have a future that transcends this earthly existence.
David continues in Psalm 118, proclaiming, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it” (verse 24). Even amid rejection, we can find reasons to rejoice. Every day is a gift from God, and every challenge we face can draw us closer to Him. Our faithfulness in the face of rejection not only strengthens our relationship with God but also serves as a testimony to those around us.
When we feel rejected for our profession of faith, remember that we are not alone. Jesus faced the ultimate rejection, yet He triumphed over death and now reigns in glory. We, too, can take heart; our identity is rooted in Him, and our future is secure. Just as He was exalted, so too will we be raised up, sitting with Him in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6).
Tuesday
Psalm 119
DISCOVER:
1. In what areas of my life am I currently leaning on my own understanding or carnal reasoning instead of seeking God’s guidance through His Word? How can I make a conscious effort to align my decisions with His commandments?
2. How do I cultivate a deeper desire to learn and follow God’s statutes in my daily life? What practical steps can I take to integrate Scripture into my routine and allow it to influence my choices?
3. When I face societal pressures or cultural norms that contradict God's teachings, how do I typically respond? How can I strengthen my commitment to walk in God’s ways and remain steadfast in my faith, even when it feels challenging?
RESPOND:
In Psalm 119 the psalmist proclaims a deep reverence for God’s commandments that should stir in us a longing to reflect on our own relationship with His Word. In a world filled with distractions and competing voices, I am reminded of John Calvin’s wisdom: we must not be swayed by our own designs or carnal reasoning, but instead, we must anchor ourselves in God’s commandments to remain on the right path.
The first verse of this psalm sets the tone for a life characterized by integrity and devotion. “Blessed are those whose way is blameless.” This doesn’t imply perfection, but rather a heart postured toward God, seeking to align with His will. In my own journey, I often find myself wrestling with the temptation to rely on my own understanding or to make choices based on what seems best in the moment. Yet, I am reminded that wisdom comes to those who earnestly seek God and endeavor to follow His law.
The psalmist continues to express a deep desire to keep God’s statutes, to not merely know them but to live them out (Psalm 119:4). When we focus our heart and mind on God’s commands, we see that His ways are not burdensome but rather a pathway to true joy and fulfillment.
As I reflect on the call to walk in God’s law, I consider the challenges I face. The world around me often promotes values contrary to the teachings of Scripture. It can be easy to be swayed by cultural norms or to justify choices that lead me away from God’s best for my life. Calvin reminds me that I must come to the determination to adhere to God’s commandments without turning aside. This is a conscious choice, a commitment to trust in His wisdom above my own.
In verses 7 and 8, the psalmist declares, “I will praise you with an upright heart, when I learn your righteous rules. I will keep your statutes; do not utterly forsake me!” This prayer should echo our own desire for God’s presence and guidance. I long to praise Him not just with my lips but with my life, reflecting His love and grace in all I do.
Wednesday
Psalm 120
DISCOVER:
1What specific areas of my life currently cause me distress or sorrow? How comfortable do I feel expressing these feelings to God, and what steps can I take to be more honest in my prayers?
2. How do I view the practice of lament in my spiritual life? Do I see it as a necessary and healthy expression of faith, or do I struggle with the idea of bringing my pain before God? What can I learn from the psalmist’s example about the importance of lamenting?
3. In what ways do I long for peace in my life or in the world around me? How can I incorporate prayer and lament into seeking that peace? What specific actions can I take to pursue healing not only for myself but also for those in my community who are struggling?
RESPOND:
Psalm 120 reminds us of the raw honesty and emotional depth that the Psalms of lament bring to our spiritual journey. This particular psalm begins with a cry for help, a heartfelt expression of distress that resonates deeply in our lives today. The psalmist’s words remind me that it’s not only acceptable but necessary to bring our pain and struggles before the Lord.
“In my distress, I called to the Lord.” These opening words encapsulate the essence of lament. The psalmist is not shy about his troubles; he acknowledges his suffering and cries out for relief. In a world that often encourages us to put on a brave face or to mask our feelings, the Psalms of lament invite us to embrace vulnerability. They provide a safe space to voice our fears, our frustrations, and our sorrows.
The psalm continues with the psalmist’s plea against deceitful tongues and harmful words (Psalm 120:2-4). This speaks to the reality that in times of distress, we can easily be caught up in the negativity and bitterness of our surroundings. The psalmist recognizes the weight of slander and falsehood, and he seeks God’s deliverance from such turmoil. In our own lives, we can relate to the impact of hurtful words, whether spoken by others or even by ourselves. Lamenting before God allows us to release these burdens and seek healing.
Moreover, Psalm 120 serves as a reminder that lament is an essential part of our faith journey. It doesn’t signify a lack of faith; rather, it reflects a deep trust in God’s ability to handle our struggles. By expressing our pain, we open the door for God’s comfort and intervention. In Romans 12:15, we are encouraged to “rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.” Lamenting can bring us closer to God and to one another, fostering empathy and understanding within our community.
Thursday
Psalm 121
DISCOVER:
1. What specific challenges or overwhelming situations am I currently facing in my life? How can I acknowledge these feelings while also seeking God's help and presence in the midst of them?
2. How do I perceive God's role as my keeper and protector? In what ways can I cultivate a deeper trust in His promise to guard my life, especially during difficult times?
3. Reflecting on Horatio Spafford's hymn, how can I develop a mindset that allows me to say “it is well with my soul” even when I am experiencing pain or loss? What practical steps can I take to shift my focus from my circumstances to God's faithfulness?
RESPOND:
In the 121st psalm the psalmist begins with a declaration of faith, lifting his eyes to the hills. When life feels heavy, it’s easy to feel as if you’re standing at the bottom of a steep hill, wondering how to navigate the climb ahead. Yet, just as Horatio Spafford penned “It Is Well with My Soul” amidst unimaginable sorrow, I am reminded that my hope lies in God’s unwavering presence and strength.
Spafford's hymn speaks to the heart of what it means to trust in God during life's storms. He wrote those words after facing unimaginable loss—the death of his children and the crushing weight of financial ruin. In the first stanza, he captures the duality of life: moments of peace and moments of sorrow. “When peace like a river, attendeth my way, when sorrows like sea billows roll.” This juxtaposition reflects the reality we often face: the coexistence of joy and grief, hope and despair.
The psalmist and Spafford both experienced overwhelming circumstances. Yet, their responses point to the same truth: our strength does not come from our own abilities, but from the Lord. The psalmist reassures us that God is our keeper, the one who watches over us. “He will not let your foot be moved; he who keeps you will not slumber” (Psalm 121:3). This promise offers us comfort, reminding us that God is vigilant and present, even when we feel weak or lost.
Life’s challenges can often feel insurmountable. Whether it’s a personal loss, a financial burden, or the weight of uncertainty. It’s in these moments that we must choose to lift our eyes to the hills, to remember where our help comes from. The psalmist continues to affirm that the Lord is my shade, protecting me from the harsh realities of life (Psalm 121:5). He promises to guard my going out and my coming in, now and forevermore.
When I reflect on Spafford's ability to proclaim that “it is well with my soul,” I recognize that this peace does not come from the absence of trials, but from a deep-seated trust in God’s goodness and sovereignty. Even when the sea billows roll, we can find peace in knowing that God walks with us through the storm.
Friday
Psalm 122
DISCOVER:
1. How have I taken the opportunity to worship and gather with other believers for granted in my life? What specific experiences or changes have awakened me to the value and joy of communal worship?
2. In what ways do I actively seek and contribute to the peace and unity of my church community? How can I better embody the desire to “pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding” in my interactions with others?
3. During times when I am unable to attend worship or when peace seems scarce, how can I maintain my hope in Christ as my source of peace? What practices or reflections can help me stay connected to the “house of the Lord” and its community, even in challenging circumstances?
RESPOND:
If you have the privilege of worshiping weekly for many years, it’s easy to start taking that blessing for granted. However, when that routine is disrupted or temporarily lost, it can awaken you to the profound joy of gathering together to worship the Lord. The saying “You don’t know what you have until it’s gone” becomes increasingly meaningful. When believers are finally able to return, they echo the sentiment of the psalmist: “I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord!’” (Ps. 122:1). This response to experiencing loss and then restoration reveals a great deal about spiritual vitality.
For many of us, it’s hard to fully grasp the lives of the Old Testament saints, who often faced significant distances and trials that separated them from the house of God. Figures like David endured long periods of exile, leading to times when worship was neglected and even decades when God’s house lay in ruins. Unlike today, they could not simply hop in a car to attend a weekly service and return home within a couple of hours. Many had to undertake long and perilous journeys, with some only able to visit the temple three times a year for major feasts (Deut. 16:16).
Psalm 122 is a psalm of ascents, traditionally sung during pilgrimages to the temple. After expressing his joy at his friends’ invitation, David reflects on Jerusalem:
“Jerusalem—built as a city
that is bound firmly together,
to which the tribes go up,
the tribes of the Lord,
as was decreed for Israel,
to give thanks to the name of the Lord. . . .
Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!
‘May they be secure who love you!
Peace be within your walls
and security within your towers!’”
(vv. 3–4, 7–8).
David recalls past visits to Jerusalem with gratitude, taking in the sight of the unified capital of a reconciled nation and witnessing the tribes come together in thanksgiving. There’s a palpable sense of fellowship and joy during this time of peace. After enduring years of civil strife and family conflict, David delights in the experience of worship during these harmonious times.
True believers deeply crave moments of unified and peaceful church life. They cherish seeing friends and family gathered once more in the Lord’s house and around His table. A hallmark of genuine faith is the desire to “pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding” (Rom. 14:19). However, this pursuit is not merely about maintaining superficial harmony. Instead, believers seek the well-being of “the house of the Lord our God” (Ps. 122:9).
Even today, true believers may face times when they cannot attend worship or when peace feels elusive. Yet, we hold onto an enduring hope in Christ, who, through His death, “is our peace” (Eph. 2:14). Even now, His church is “being built together into a dwelling place for God by the Spirit” (v. 22). In challenging times, may we remain a people who continue to love and cherish the house of God.
Saturday
Psalm 123
DISCOVER:
1. In what areas of my life do I struggle to acknowledge my dependence on God? How can I cultivate a heart posture that recognizes my need for His mercy and provision?
2. Do I ever approach God with a sense of entitlement, believing that I deserve certain blessings or outcomes? How can I shift my perspective to understand that God owes me nothing, and instead focus on gratitude for His grace?
3. Have I experienced a difficult situation that has deepened my reliance on God? How can I be intentional about seeking His presence and mercy during challenging times, rather than becoming discouraged or resentful?
RESPOND:
Many of us likely do not know any servants or slaves personally. However, there may have been times when we felt enslaved by challenging relationships at work or within our homes. Some of us might have even used the metaphor of slavery to describe our struggles with persistent sin. Yet, for most of us, it’s difficult to fully grasp the dependent relationship that ancient slaves experienced. Rather than earning a wage, a slave depended entirely on their master to meet their needs. They couldn’t simply go to a store and purchase what they desired; they owned nothing and were themselves owned. In times of need, all they could do was ask.
In Psalm 123:2, the psalmist expresses this lowly position of a servant:
“Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their master,
as the eyes of a maidservant look to the hand of her mistress,
so our eyes look to the LORD our God, till he has mercy upon us.”
This believer has come to a place of honest self-awareness, approaching God with empty hands. The context reveals that the psalmist is struggling with the stark contrast between his situation and that of his proud neighbors:
“Have mercy upon us, O LORD, have mercy upon us,
for we have had more than enough of contempt.
Our soul has had more than enough of the scorn of those who are at ease,
of the contempt of the proud.” (vv. 3–4)
While the psalmist faced scorn from his neighbors, who lived comfortably, he recognized his need for God’s help. His prayer and repeated plea for mercy illustrate a profound struggle within his soul.
Through this trial, the psalmist learned that God owes him nothing. This is a challenging yet essential lesson for believers. Even as others looked down on him, he learned to look up to the Lord. Many people approach God's house or come to Him in prayer with the expectation that they are entitled to something. They believe they deserve a good life—at least equal to that of their neighbors. However, believers must understand that even when we fulfill our responsibilities, God owes us nothing. As Jesus said, “We are unworthy servants; we have only done what was our duty” (Luke 17:10).
It’s true that the New Testament provides a fuller understanding: in Christ, we are no longer slaves but sons and even heirs through God (Gal. 4:5). What a glorious position this is for believers! Yet, the lesson from Psalm 123 remains relevant. When life's circumstances drive us to pray with humble dependence, they ultimately work for our good. Whether it’s scorn, illness, or sorrow that brings us to this realization, we are learning a vital lesson. If you haven’t yet prayed in this way, remember the command of Scripture: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will exalt you” (James 4:10). A sense of entitlement can hinder our spiritual growth. It is only when we become small that we come to recognize the greatness of God and His mercy.