Deuteronomy 9:1-29

NOT BECAUSE OF YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS

Keywords 9:6

Understand, then, that it is not because of your righteousness that the LORD your God is giving you this good land to possess, for you are a stiff-necked people.

 

1. But on account of their wickedness (1-6)

 God warned Israel not to become self-righteous. They would meet stronger

enemies such as the giant Anakites who lived in large, walled cities. But God

would destroy them like a devouring fire. On that day, they should not say to

themselves, “It was because of our righteousness.” God said, “No, it was on

account of the wickedness of these nations.” When God gives us victory, we

should not be proud but remember God and glorify him only.

 

2. God heard Moses’ prayers (7-29)

 The people had been very stiff-necked. They made an idol in the shape of a calf

and worshiped it. Only by Moses’ sincere intercessory prayer God spared them

and Aaron from destruction. Then they didn’t take possession of the land God had

given them. God was ready to destroy them again. But God heard Moses’ prayer

once more. We are worse than Israel. But God forgave us through the mediator

Jesus. He died for our sins. He prayed, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know

what they are doing.”

 

Prayer Lord, we have no righteousness to claim at all for our salvation. Thank you

for saving us through Jesus who sacrificed himself for our sake.

One Word Jesus, our only mediator

Deuteronomy 8:1-20

MAN DOES NOT LIVE ON BREAD ALONE

Keywords 8:3

He humbled you, causing you to hunger and then feeding you with manna, which neither you nor your fathers had known, to teach you that man does not live on bread alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD.

 

1. But live on every word of God (1-5)

 God told the Israelites to be careful to follow all his commands. Why? So that

they may live and increase in number and take possession of the Promised Land.

For this, he disciplined the Israelites in the wilderness for 40 years. He humbled

them and tested their hearts until they learned that man does not live on bread

alone but on every word that comes from the mouth of the LORD. God taught that

he alone is LORD through feeding them with manna. Their feet never tired, their

sandals never wore out with their LORD.

 

2. Remember the LORD your God (6-20)

 But the real danger comes after God blesses them abundantly. Men easily forget

God and say proudly, “my power and the strength of my hands have produced

this wealth for me.” But we should remember the LORD God who gave the ability

to produce all. If we forget him and follow other gods, we will surely be destroyed

for disobeying God.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to live on your word. Let me remember you in the midst of

your blessings.

One Word Man does not live on bread alone but on the word of God.

Deuteronomy 7:1-26

YOU ARE A PEOPLE HOLY TO THE LORD

Keywords 7:6

For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.

 

1. Be holy (1-8)

 When God delivers many nations over to Israel, Israel should not compromise

with them by intermarrying with them. Instead, Israel should totally destroy them,

their altars, and their idols so that their children would not be turned away from

God. God chose Israel as his holy people and his treasured possession. It was

not because Israel was more numerous. She was small in number. But the LORD

loved Israel and kept his promise with Abraham. It was only God’s grace.

 

2. God is the judge (9-26)

 The LORD faithfully keeps his covenant: To those who hate him, he will repay

with destruction. But to those who love him and keep his commandments, he will

repay to a thousand generations. He will bless them with new wine, flocks, many

children, and no diseases. God would enable Israel to destroy stronger enemies

as judgment for their idolatry. God is mindful to drive them out little by little so that

the land may not be devastated.

 

Prayer Lord, you chose us because you loved us. You chose us to be your holy

people. Lord, use us as your instrument to save the lost.

One Word God chose us to be a holy nation

Deuteronomy 6:10-25

OBEYING THE LAW WILL BE OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS

Keywords 6:25

And if we are careful to obey all this law before the LORD our God, as he has commanded us, that will be our righteousness."

 

1. Fear the LORD and serve him only (10-19)

 People easily forget the grace of God when they prosper. So, God repeatedly

taught Israel not to forget him who brought them out of slavery in Egypt and

gave them houses, wells, vineyards, and olive groves in the Promised Land. They

should fear the LORD and serve him only. They should not put the LORD to the

test. If they follow other gods, the LORD God is a jealous God, and he would

destroy them. If they keep the LORD’s commands and do what is right and good,

it would go well with them in the good land the LORD promised.

 

2. Tell your children (20-25)

 Parents were responsible to teach their children to know the mighty God who

brought Israel out of Egypt with signs and wonders. The LORD gave them the

Promised Land so that they might obey all his commands and fear him. Then they

would always prosper and be kept alive. If they kept his commands, that would be

their righteousness.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for your saving grace from our bondage of sin, death, and

Satan. Now, our righteousness is to believe in Jesus and not to forget

him who died for our sins.

One Word The righteous shall live by faith

Deuteronomy 6:1-9

LOVE GOD WITH ALL YOUR BEING

Keywords 6:4,5

Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.

 

1. Love God with all that you are (1-5)

 Fearing God, keeping his commands and carefully obeying him are all ways

of loving God. “Hear” (“shema” in Hebrew) is a sacred verse to Jews called The

Shema. God is one. God is the LORD who brought them out of Egypt. It is this

God whom his people are to love with all their heart, soul and strength. Jesus

said this is the most important commandment (Mk 12:29-30). Why? Because if we

don’t love God, we naturally give our hearts to love something or someone else.

 

2. Keep God’s words close to your heart (6-9)

 Many Jewish homes have verses 4-9 in a small doorframe box called a mezuzah

(9). It’s a reminder to keep God’s words nearby. We are to talk about God’s word

anywhere, any time. Why? Because we are forgetful, and we are easily distracted.

Also, meditating on and discussing God’s word can and should be our joy and

inspiration for living.

 

Prayer Lord, I love you. Help me to love you more.

One Word Love God with my all

Deuteronomy 5:22-33

HEARTS INCLINED TO FEAR AND OBEY GOD

Keywords 5:29

Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever!

 

1. “This great fire will consume us…” (22-27)

 God gave the Ten Commandments to Israel in an awesome display of fire and

thunder (Ex 20:18-19). The people were afraid that they would die in consuming

fire if they continued to listen to God’s voice. So, they asked Moses to speak to

God and to relay his words to them. It is good to have reverent fear of God.

 

2. “Oh, that their hearts would fear me!” (28-33)

 God really wanted his people’s hearts to be inclined to fear God and keep his

commands always. Then all would go well with them and their children forever.

Moses relayed God’s words to them. They must be careful to walk in obedience to

God’s commands. Then they would live, prosper, and prolong their days.

 

Prayer Lord, give me a reverent awe of your power and holiness. Help me by

your Spirit to remain in your word and your love. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

One Word A heart that fears and obeys God

Deuteronomy 5:1-21

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS

Keywords 5:6,7

"I am the LORD your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall have no other gods before me."

 

1. Love God (1-15)

 The Ten Commandments form the basis of all God’s commands to his covenant

people. The first part is about loving God. God hates idols, which can be anything

that take God’s place. We must not misuse but rather revere God’s name. We

must rest and worship God on the LORD’s day. Loving God is the greatest

commandment (Mt 22:36-38).

 

2. Love your neighbour (16-21)

 Loving people starts with our parents and family members. If we love people, we

won’t kill them, misuse their bodies in sexual immorality, steal from them, lie about

them, or covet their belongings. To love our neighbours as ourselves is the second

greatest commandment (Mt 22:39). All of God’s commands are based on loving

God and loving people.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to love you and to love others as I love myself. In Jesus’

name I pray.

One Word Love God and love my neighbour as myself

Deuteronomy 4:15-49

THE LORD IS GOD; THERE IS NO OTHER

Keywords 4:39

Acknowledge and take to heart this day that the LORD is God in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other.

 

1. But if from there you seek the LORD (15-31)

 Moses warned them to be careful not to make any idols or worship created

things. They must remember God’s saving grace (20) and not forget God’s

covenant (23). Moses foresaw their fall into idolatry (25) and exile (27). But in their

plight, if they sought the LORD wholeheartedly, they would find him.

 

2. The LORD is God (32-49)

 Moses asked: Has God ever spoken to or revealed himself to any nation like he

did to Israel? The God of Israel is God, and there is no other. God brought them

out of Egypt by his Presence and great strength (37). God gave them victory over

enemies who were greater and stronger than they. What has God done through

Jesus Christ, and how has he shown himself great to you?

 

Prayer Lord, you are God, and there is no other. You brought Israel out of Egypt.

You raised Jesus from the dead. You saved and changed my life. I trust

and worship you.

One Word Seek and obey the one true God

Deuteronomy 4:1-14

FOLLOW GOD’S WORD AND LIVE

Keywords 4:1a

Hear now, O Israel, the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live

 

1. Hear and follow God’s word (1-8)

 God gave his people commands, not suggestions. These commands were to

give them life (1) and wisdom and understanding (6). They must not add to or

subtract from them according to their own feelings or ideas. They must hold fast

to the LORD their God (4) and not follow idols (3). People who pray to God and

follow God’s word show the world that God is great (7-8).

 

2. Be careful not to forget (9-14)

 Moses told them to be careful not to forget all God’s mighty deeds. God gave

the Ten Commandments to them in an awesome display of power (11). They heard

God’s word but saw no form. They must remember all these things and teach

their children. God’s people must remember all that God has done for them.

 

Prayer Thank you Lord, for all you’ve done for us and your great grace, love and

mercy. I follow your word and Spirit. In Jesus’ name.

One Word Hold fast to the LORD and live

Deuteronomy 3:12-29

DON’T BE AFRAID, GOD WILL FIGHT FOR YOU

Keywords 3:22

"Do not be afraid of them; the LORD your God himself will fight for you."

 

1. Allotting land east of the Jordan (12-20)

 Moses gave the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half tribe of Manasseh the Amorite

land east of the Jordan. But they were required to send their fighting men into

battle until they conquered the whole Promised Land west of the Jordan (18). They

couldn’t rest until after God had given all their brothers victory.

 

2. Commission, encourage and strengthen (21-29)

 Moses really wanted to enter the Promised Land. But God would only let

Moses see it from afar. Instead, God told Moses to commission, encourage, and

strengthen Joshua to lead the people to take the land by God’s will and power.

Sometimes we must fight on the front lines; sometimes we only get to see results

from afar; sometimes our task is to commission, encourage, and strengthen

others. Whatever God wants, God’s will be done.

 

Prayer Lord, your will is best. Help me to follow it humbly, thankfully, and

sincerely. I have nothing to fear when I know you are fighting for me in

Jesus’ name.

One Word Don’t be afraid, God will fight for you

Deuteronomy 2:26-3:11

GOD DELIVERS TWO ENEMIES OVER

Keywords 3:2a

The LORD said to me, "Do not be afraid of him, for I have handed him over to you with his whole army and his land. "

 

1. God delivers King Sihon over to Israel (2:26-37)

 Moses offered peace and payment for provisions to King Sihon if he let them

pass through as others had done. But Sihon refused. God delivered Sihon and all

his allies over to Israel. Israel left no survivors. They kept only the plunder. In this

way, God brought judgment on the Amorites and gave Israel their land.

 

2. God delivers King Og over to Israel (3:1-11)

 King Og ruled over 60 fortified cities with high walls, gates, and bars. Og

came out to fight Israel, but God gave him over to Israel. All of Og’s allies were

destroyed. Only the plunder was kept. It was God’s judgment on the Amorites and

God’s fulfillment of his promises.

 

Prayer Lord God, your judgments are right and your promises are true. I fear

you. I trust your promises. I have victory over sin and evil forces in Jesus’

name. Amen.

One Word Don’t be afraid; the victory belongs to God

 

Deuteronomy 2:1-25

GOD PROVIDES AND GOD DIRECTS

Keywords 2:7

The LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast desert. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything.

 

1. God’s provision for 40 years in the desert (1-7)

 God directed the people toward the wilderness where they wandered for 40

years. Still, God watched over them and was with them, so they did not lack a

thing. Their wilderness training was God’s disciplinary love for them.

 

2. Begin to take possession of the land (24-25)

 God gave lands to Esau (descendants of Jacob) and to Moab and Ammon

(descendants of Lot), which Israel could not have. So, they were not to harass

them or provoke them to war. They had to pay for the food and water they took

from these lands. The time had come to take possession of the land. Still, Israel

had to fight for it. God would make all the nations fear them. God would give them

the land he promised them.

 

Prayer Lord, thank you for your provision and direction. I trust and follow you in

Jesus’ name.

One Word Trust God’s provision; follow God’s directions

Deuteronomy 1:19-46

DO NOT REBEL; TRUST IN THE LORD

Keywords 1:21

See, the LORD your God has given you the land. Go up and take possession of it as the LORD, the God of your fathers, told you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

 

1. “Go up and take possession of it” (19-25)

 At Kadesh Barnea, Moses had said, "God has given you the land...Go up...do

not be afraid" (8,21). Then Moses sent spies from each tribe. They brought back

fruit and reported that the land God was giving them was good.

 

2. You rebelled and did not trust in God (26-46)

 The people became afraid to take the land; they thought they were too weak.

Moses reminded them that God fought for them in Egypt and showed them the

way by fire and cloud. But they did not trust in God. So, God decided that none

of them would enter the land except for Moses’ successor Joshua and Caleb,

who followed God wholeheartedly. Then the people changed their minds and

decided to fight. But God did not give them the victory since they were stubbornly

following their own ideas and feelings.

 

Prayer Lord, take away my fear, unbelief, and stubborn pride. I trust and obey you.

One Word Trust in God and obey him

Deuteronomy 1:1-18

“I HAVE GIVEN YOU THIS LAND”

Keywords 1:8

"See, I have given you this land. Go in and take possession of the land that the LORD swore he would give to your fathers--to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob--and to their descendants after them."

 

1. At the border of the Promised Land (1-8)

 It normally took 11 days to go from Mt. Sinai to Kadesh. But the Israelites had to

wander 40 years in the wilderness because of their disobedience. Now, they were

just east of the Jordan River—ready to enter the land God promised to give them.

Under Moses' leadership, they had defeated the Amorite kings Sihon and Og

who had not allowed them to pass through their lands. Now, Moses gave them a

history lesson to remind them of God's promises. They must not repeat their past

failure. They must go in and take possession of the land (8).

 

2. Moses appointed leaders as judges (9-18)

 Moses appointed wise, respected leaders as judges to help him. These men

were to act as impartial judges in the fear of God, for judgment belongs to God.

Moses took the difficult cases.

 

Prayer Lord, may we claim what you have promised us. Please raise godly

leaders. Amen.

One Word Claim what God has promised

Philippians 4:10-23

THE RICHES OF CHRIST

Keywords 4:19

And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

 

1. I can do all things through Christ (10-13)

 Paul greatly rejoiced because of their renewed support. Yet, throughout his trials,

Paul had learned to be content in any situation, whether in need or plenty. He had

learned to do everything through Christ who gives him strength. Christ gives us

exactly what we need. Christ never gives us a situation we cannot handle or rise

up to.

 

2. The riches of Christ (14-23)

 Paul rejoiced and was thankful for the Philippian Christians’ help in his troubles.

They were consistent and strong in their support, and it was a pleasing sacrifice

to God. And in return, God would meet all their needs according to the riches of

his glory in Christ. We can give freely, often, and sacrificially for the gospel work,

trusting in the riches of Christ to supply all our needs. This is a fragrant offering to

the Lord.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to do all things through Christ. Especially, help me to give

sacrificially and trust in the riches of Christ to supply all my needs.

One Word The riches of Christ will supply all I need

Philippians 4:1-9

GUARD YOURSELVES IN CHRIST

Keywords 4:7

And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

 

1. Rejoice! (1-5)

 Paul concludes his letter with appeals to stand firm in the Lord, be united in the

Lord, and rejoice in the Lord always! He repeats the command to rejoice! The

decision to rejoice is a safeguard for our souls. It helps us to be gentle to all and

to be near to the Lord.

 

2. Guard yourselves in Christ (6-9)

 Anxiety attacks us from within and robs us of joy and peace. Paul’s counsel is

to pray in every situation, be thankful, and present our requests to God. Then,

the peace of God resides within and helps us overcome our calculations. Most

importantly, this peace guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, we

must meditate on what is true, noble, right, pure, love, admirable, excellent, and

praiseworthy, and practice good.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to have your peace that overcomes all understanding and

guard myself in Christ Jesus!

One Word Guard myself with the peace of Christ

Philippians 3:17-21

EAGERLY AWAITING CHRIST

Keywords 3:20

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Saviour from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,

 

1. Keep your eyes on your role models (17-19)

 We need to keep our eyes on our role models who live the life of faith. We need

to be on guard against enemies of the cross, who are complacent and self-indulgent. They are destined for destruction. Their god is their stomach, their

glory is in shameful things, and their minds are gripped with worldly things. Don’t

pay attention to them!

 

2. Eagerly await for Christ (20-21)

 We are citizens of heaven! Praise the Lord! We have rights and privileges as

God’s dearly loved children! While on earth, we eagerly await for Christ Jesus our

Saviour to take us to his kingdom and transform our lowly bodies into heavenly,

immortal ones! No more will we be tempted or slaves of petty desires! We will be

Christlike!

 

Prayer Lord, forgive my self-indulgence. Help me to eagerly await for Christ my

Saviour to take me to his heavenly kingdom and be like Him!

One Word Eagerly await for Christ my Saviour!

Philippians 3:12-16

PRESS ONWARD IN CHRIST

Keywords 3:12

Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me.

 

1. Press onward in Christ (12-14)

 Paul admitted that he had not attained all these things—meaning he was still in

prison in Rome. He had setbacks, was discouraged by people, and felt a great

sense of loss in the ministry. But he put all these things behind him and pressed

on heavenwards to the prize in Christ Jesus. We are emboldened by his struggle

to overcome hard trials and heartbreak, and press on in Christ Jesus!

 

2. God will make it clear to you (15-16)

 Paul said that it takes mature faith to let go of the past and strain ahead. We

need to ask God to make all things clear so that we can see what he is doing, and

then, be able to restore our gospel faith and do his work.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to overcome discouragement and press heavenward in

Christ. Please give me a clear view of what you are doing through all

things.

One Word Press onward in Christ!

Philippians 3:1-11

 

I WANT TO KNOW CHRIST

Keywords 3:10

I want to know Christ and the power of his resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in his sufferings, becoming like him in his death,

 

1. Boast in Christ (1-6)

 Paul commands us to rejoice in Christ for the privileges we have through

Him, for this guards our hearts and minds. We should not be deceived by false

teachers, like those who told the Gentile Christians in Philippi that they had

to be circumcised and become a Jew first. We should rejoice that we truly are

circumcised and are free in the Spirit to serve Him! We should boast in Christ who

gives us the privilege of being born again. Human circumcision, pride, and zeal

mean nothing, as Paul experienced.

 

2. I want to know Christ (7-11)

 Paul viewed his human glory as a loss compared to the surpassing worth of

knowing Christ. He considered it as garbage that he may gain Christ! Paul’s

passion was to know Christ, participate in his sufferings and death, and know

the power of his resurrection! Our passion should also be to know Christ’s

resurrection power in us and be free in the Spirit!

 

Prayer Lord, my own goodness is garbage. Please help me to know Christ, being

found in his righteousness alone.

One Word I want to know Christ!

Philippians 2:19-30

INTERESTS OF CHRIST

Keywords 2:30

because he almost died for the work of Christ, risking his life to make up for the help you could not give me.

 

1. Timothy looked out for the interests of Christ (19-24)

 Paul planned to send Timothy to visit them and report to him how they were

managing. Paul chose Timothy because he loved them, had no personal agenda

except the interests of Jesus Christ, was a proven gospel worker, and became like

his own spiritual son. Thank God for church leaders like Timothy who love God’s

people and have only Jesus’ interests in mind when ministering to God’s people.

 

2. Epaphroditus almost died for Christ (25-30)

 Paul was sending his letter back with Epaphroditus, who was sent by the

Philippians to take their offering and to care for his needs in prison. Paul

recognized Epaphroditus because he almost died for Christ and his work. We

should also rejoice in and honor people like him for their life-giving sacrifice for

Christ.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to rejoice in Christ-centered people who serve others and

your work purely and sacrificially.

One Word Workers who sacrifice for the interests of Christ

Philippians 2:12-18

 

REJOICE IN CHRIST

Keywords 2:17

But even if I am being poured out like a drink offering on the sacrifice and service coming from your faith, I am glad and rejoice with all of you.

 

1. For it is God who works in you (12-13)

 Through our obedience to Christ, we are changed, refined, and perfected in our

faith. This requires an awesome fear of God. Then, God works in and through us

to accomplish his own good purpose—to mold us into the image of Christ and,

through us, bring the gospel of Jesus to the world.

 

2. Rejoice in Christ (14-18)

 We must do everything without grumbling or arguing, which darkens our hearts.

Instead, when we fear God, we become blameless and pure children of God, who

shine like stars. Because of their faith, Paul rejoiced in the face of martyrdom. He

knew that he did not run in vain because God will work out his own good purpose

to accomplish his salvation work in and through them.

 

Prayer Lord, forgive me for grumbling and arguing. Help me to fear you, obey

you, and sacrifice my life for Christ, rejoicing in the salvation work God is

doing. Help me to see that my labour in Christ is not in vain.

One Word Rejoice in Christ’s salvation work

Philippians 2:1-11

 

THE MINDSET OF CHRIST

Keywords 2:5

Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus:

 

1. Being united with Christ and one another (1-4)

 When we are united with Christ, we are encouraged and comforted by his love,

fellowship, and Spirit and know Christ’s tender compassion. Our unity with Christ

is not just for our gain, but also so that we can have unity with other believers. We

have true joy when we have one love, one mind, and one Spirit, which leads us to

think of others.

 

2. Having the mindset of Christ (5-11)

 In our relationships with others, we should strive to have the mindset of Christ,

who humbled himself completely. He gave up his glory and privilege as the Son

of God and humbled himself to be a servant. He became obedient even to death

on a cross. Now, every knee will bow and all will acknowledge him Lord of all.

We need to learn the mindset of Christ to be completely humble and obedient to

God’s will, following him.

 

Prayer Lord, forgive my pride that hinders me from being humble, obedient, and

united. Teach me the mindset of Christ.

One Word The mindset of Christ

Philippians 1:19-30

 

TO LIVE IS CHRIST

Keywords 1:21

For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.

 

1. To live is Christ, to die is gain (18-26)

 Paul was confident of his release—one way or another. Either he would be

released by death to go to heaven, or he would be released alive to continue

preaching the gospel. Paul was ready to live, and he was ready to die. He said, “I

desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far.” But he still had work to

do for Jesus, so he was confident that he would not die yet.

 

2. Conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of Christ (27-30)

 No matter what happens, we must conduct ourselves in a manner worthy of the

gospel. Paul encourages us to contend as one in the Spirit for the gospel. We

should not be frightened in any way by those who oppose the gospel. For it has

been granted to us, not only to believe the gospel and have life in Christ, but also

to suffer for him.

 

Prayer Lord, take away my fear of death. Help me to live for Christ, knowing that

by dying I gain eternity.

One Word To live is Christ, to die is gain!

Philippians 1:12-18

 

CHRIST IS PREACHED

Keywords 1:18

But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motives or true, Christ is preached. And because of this I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice,

 

1. The gospel is advanced (12-14)

 Paul’s great desire to preach the gospel in Rome had been fulfilled—but in a

strange way. He was sent to Rome in chains as a prisoner to stand trial before

Caesar. He boldly preached Christ to the palace guards. They could see Christ’s

love shining from his life. More than this, other Christians became bold in sharing

their faith in Christ, encouraged by Paul’s courage and joy.

 

2. In every way Christ is preached (15-18a)

 Satan tried to stop Christ from being preached through Paul’s imprisonment.

But instead Christ was preached even more—some out of envy and rivalry with

Paul, and others to support him. Paul simply rejoiced that Christ was preached!

We need this mature attitude.

 

Prayer Lord, help me to rejoice that Christ is preached rather than being

discouraged by Satan or others’ motives.

One Word Rejoice that Christ is preached!

Philippians 1:1-11

COMPLETION IN CHRIST

Keywords 1:6

being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.

 

1. God will complete us in Christ (1-6)

 In prison, Paul did not despair or shrink back. Paul was thankful and joyful by

remembering the Philippians’ strong partnership in the gospel. He prayed for them

day and night and gained an assurance that God who began a good work in them

will complete his work until the Day of Christ. Through his Christlike struggle to be

thankful, joyful, and prayerful, Paul could have a vision of Christ’s fi nal victory and

salvation!

 

2. This is my prayer (7-11)

 Instead of worrying, Paul prayed earnestly for them to abound in love and insight.

Abound means to overfl ow. By abounding in love and insight, they could discern

what is best and be pure and blameless on the Day of Christ, fi lled with the fruits

of righteousness in Christ, glorifying God!

 

Prayer Lord, instead of worrying, help me to pray for others day and night,

trusting God to complete the good work he began in them until the Day

of Christ.

One Word Completed in Christ!

2 Chronicles 7:1-22

 

THE TEMPLE IS DEDICATED

Keywords 7:12

the LORD appeared to him at night and said: "I have heard your prayer and have chosen this place for myself as a temple for sacrifices.

 

1. God approves the temple (1-10)

 Temple accepted! When Solomon finished praying, fi re came down from heaven

and consumed the offerings and sacrifices, and the glory of the LORD filled the

temple. The people knelt and worshipped God in thanksgiving. Solomon offered

22,000 cattle and 120,000 sheep and goats as sacrifices and the Levites and

priests declared “His love endures forever.” Today, we are the dwelling place of

God. May we never take this for granted but thank and praise God day and night

with all our hearts. The people celebrated the Festival of Booths and then went

back to their homes, joyful and glad in heart for the good things the LORD had

done.

 

2. God answers Solomon’s prayer (11-22)

 It took another 13 years for Solomon to finish his palace. When it was finished,

God appeared to him at night and affirmed his prayer. God would forgive his

people when they sinned if they would humble themselves and pray and seek his

face and turn from their wicked ways. God would establish Solomon if he walked

faithfully before the Lord.

 

Prayer Father, we rejoice in your presence.

One Word The glory of the LORD filled the temple

2 Chronicles 6:22-42

 

SOLOMON PRAYS FOR GOD’S PEOPLE

Keywords 6:40

"Now, my God, may your eyes be open and your ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. "

 

1. Hear and forgive (22-39)

 Solomon knew that God’s people would turn away from God and commit sin.

Solomon prayed that when they suffered defeat, drought, disaster, disease, and

even captivity because of their sin, God would hear their cries and forgive them

when they prayed toward the temple and repented of their sin. He also prayed

for justice when people wronged each other and for God to answer the prayers

of foreigners when they prayed towards the temple. Forgiveness is the most

important prayer topic for our own people. Pray for the people of our nation to

turn to Jesus and be saved.

 

2. Now arise, LORD God (40-42)

 “May your eyes be open and your ears attentive to the prayers offered in this

place.” God’s temple was to be a house of prayer for the nations. What a blessing

it is to have a God who sees and hears the prayers of his people! Solomon prayed

for the LORD God to arise and come to the temple. He concluded by praying that

God would not reject him but remember the great love he promised to David.

 

Prayer Father, help us to pray for our nation.

One Word God sees and hears our prayers

2 Chronicles 6:12-21

 

SOLOMON’S PRAYER OF DEDICATION

Keywords 6:21

Hear the supplications of your servant and of your people Israel when they pray toward this place. Hear from heaven, your dwelling place; and when you hear, forgive.

1. A prayer of adoration and praise (12-17)

 Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD and prayed on behalf of all God’s

people. He knelt on the platform and stretched his hands towards heaven. His

prayer began with praise and adoration as he declared that there is no one like

our God. Our God is faithful to his covenant of love and he keeps all his promises.

Solomon’s first petition was for God to fulfill his promise to continue the lineage of

David forever. Jesus, our Savior and King, is the answer to this prayer.

 

2. A prayer for grace (18-21)

 The temple was a special place. Although it could never contain an infinite

God, prayer towards the temple was prayer committed in the name of the

Lord. Solomon asked that God would hear the supplications of the king and all

God’s people when they prayed toward the temple and grant them forgiveness.

Forgiveness removes all the barriers between a loving God and his people. It is

our greatest need—a need that can only be met by his wonderful grace.

 

Prayer Father, thank you for hearing and forgiving.

One Word God hears the prayers of his people

2 Chronicles 6:1-11

 

GOD FULFILLS ALL HIS PROMISES

Keywords 6:10

"The LORD has kept the promise he made. I have succeeded David my father and now I sit on the throne of Israel, just as the LORD promised, and I have built the temple for the Name of the LORD, the God of Israel.

 

1. Things God had promised (1-9)

 Solomon reminded the people that God had promised to dwell in a dark cloud

and that everything happening was a fulfillment of his word. Solomon blessed

the people and also reminded them of all the different promises God had made.

God had chosen Jerusalem to be the location for his Name and David to rule his

people. He also promised that David’s son would build the temple for the LORD’s

Name.

 

2. God’s promises were fulfilled (10-11)

 As the LORD promised, Solomon succeeded his father David and now sat

on the throne of Israel. He built the temple and placed the ark inside. This was

Solomon’s testimony about all the promises God had fulfilled in his life. What is

our testimony? What promises has God fulfilled in our lives? There are so many!

We can rejoice and testify that all of God’s promises are “Yes” and “Amen” in

Christ.

 

Prayer Father, we praise you for all the wonderful promises you have made in

Jesus.

One Word God always keeps his word

2 Chronicles 5:2-14

 

THE GLORY OF THE LORD FILLS THE TEMPLE

Keywords 5:14

and the priests could not perform their service because of the cloud, for the glory of the LORD filled the temple of God.

1. The ark was brought to the temple (2-10)

 Solomon gathered all the leaders and the people of Israel to bring the ark to the

temple. The ark symbolized God’s presence among his people and the two tablets

of stone represented his word and his covenant. The ark was handled with great

reverence and care. The Levites carried the ark from Zion to the temple while

consecrated priests placed it in the Most Holy Place. Solomon and the entire

assembly of Israel sacrificed countless sheep and cattle. In this way, they sought

the presence of the LORD. The way to seek the Lord is with a broken and contrite

heart.

 

2. The glory of the LORD filled the temple (11-14)

 The priests withdrew from the Holy Place and an awesome round of worship

began. The Levites, who were musicians, played cymbals, harps and lyres while

120 priests blew their trumpets. The singers raised their voices and praised God.

What a celebration! Then, the glory of the LORD filled the temple in a cloud. God

was present with his people. Is there anything more they could need? Is there

anything more they could want?

 

Prayer Father, your presence is everything.

One Word God is present among his people

2 Chronicles 4:1 - 5:1

 

THE TEMPLE FURNISHINGS

Keywords 4:19a

Solomon also made all the furnishings that were in God's temple:

 

1. Solomon and Huram-Abi’s work for the temple (4:1-22)

 Solomon faithfully carried out God’s plans for the temple. The bronze altar was

the place where all the sacrifices were made. The Sea, holding almost 18,000

gallons of water, was for the cleansing of the priests. The 10 basins were for

cleansing the sacrifices and the utensils. The golden lamps illuminated the inside

of the temple and represented the continual presence of God, while the tables

held the Bread of the Presence. The golden altar was located just outside the

Most Holy Place and was used to burn incense, representing the prayers of God’s

people. Various utensils and bowls were made to facilitate the work of the priests.

The pillars, capitals, networks, and pomegranates were all completed as well.

 

2. Solomon finished the work (5:1)

 David commanded Solomon to be strong and courageous and to do the work

for the temple. God was with him, and Solomon finished the temple. He brought

in all the things his father had dedicated to the temple and placed them in the

treasuries. The temple was ready to receive the ark of the covenant.

 

Prayer Father, help us to fi nish our work as well.

One Word Follow God’s plan