Daily Notes

The daily notes in the tabs below will help you as you make your way through the Bible day by day.

They’re based on the Robert Murray M’Cheyne Bible reading schedule, with a slight variation in line with the YouVersion Bible App.

Old Testament - 1

Exodus 18 – Testimony

When Moses spoke with Jethro he left nothing out. He told of rescue from Egypt, of course, but also of the supernatural provision and protection they had received. Jethro took all this testimony to rejoice over the goodness of God. We often underestimate the impact that telling people of God’s help through our troubles can have. So, Jethro brought his sacrifices and worship to the LORD who is “greater than all gods” (v11). As a refugee camp of former slaves, Israel’s only governance centred on just one man, Moses. Jethro’s advice about delegation was more than operationally sensible: It ensured that the laws, statutes, and will of God were understood, taught, and lived out throughout the camp.

Heavenly Father, it is helpful to reflect on how your hand has been on my life, and to give you thanks. I pray that the Spirit would prompt me naturally to speak of such things to others so that they might praise you too. Bless and encourage our church leaders as they work to serve you.

New Testament and Psalms - 1

Luke 21 – Anguish on the Earth

The widow’s offering is a powerful statement in two ways: First, her whole-person devotion to God is clear and commendable. Second, she is something of a victim of the loveless religion of the scribes condemned by Jesus at the end of the previous chapter. Christ’s work abolished the old temple system, but the temple’s destruction would be an act of divine judgment against loveless religion and their rejection of the Messiah. The sacking of Jerusalem in AD 70 was horrific, but Jesus’ teaching here make it clear that it’s only a foretaste of the Day of Judgment when he returns. As his people, we are to be ready for that day, eagerly anticipating our full redemption.

Lord, these images are truly terrifying. If you counted our sins against us, who could stand? Thank you that you took the punishment I deserve and help me to spread your good news to others. Lord, have mercy on my unsaved family members, friends, and colleagues.

Old Testament - 2

Job 36 – Crying Out in Repentance

Elihu continues to orient Job’s (and our) thinking correctly towards God. In v5-7 he sounds a little like the three friends in contending God’s justice, but he expands our thinking greatly in v8-12: God will use afflictions with grace and wisdom to reveal to us our sinful hearts so that we might cry out in repentance. Although Job’s suffering is not punishment for sin, it has exposed some sinful notions of God in his heart. Many, of course, see only the affliction and are lost in sin as they never cry out to God (v13-15). So Elihu’s appeal to Job is to see his own suffering in the greater light of God’s infinite goodness, and v21 is Elihu’s core appeal to anyone suffering in life. Verses 22-33 join with the next chapter to conclude Elihu’s speeches.

Heavenly Father, how wise you are in your good dealings with us. Confession of sin and turning in repentance crush our pride and false sense of worthiness. Thank you that only Jesus is truly worthy and that in him only can I come and know you as Father.

New Testament and Psalms - 2

2 Corinthians 6 – Open Your Hearts

Paul has given so much of himself for the benefit of the church in Corinth. He has been poured out for them over and over. This wasn’t some dry obligation though, as if caring for Corinth were some kind of work task or objective. Compelled by Christ’s love for Paul and the church, Paul loved the church deeply and longed for richer, holy partnership with them – actually for the good of the church itself. How great his grief, then, to see them partnering with the world rather than with Paul. How many church leaders grieve to see their church members looking outside the church for help that really ought to be sought within the fellowship?

Lord Jesus, you know how little we truly open our hearts to your people in our local churches. Forgive me, Lord, for not opening my heart to your people to share their burdens and have my burdens shared with you through your people. Help us to truly love one another.

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