Pastor Ben Malmin

May 4  Proverbs 11:9-18  John 4:1-26  Judges 1; 2:1-5

Proverbs 11:9-18

Choosing a life of honesty and healthy relationships with others is good for your city. Choosing to not gossip or speak badly about your neighbors will be a help to the neighborhood. Here we recognize important daily decisions that can positively impact our homes and our neighborhoods.

John 4:1-26

Jesus sat down at a well, tired and thirsty from days of walking. Jesus makes Himself available for conversation with a woman from Samaria. This is a decision counter to the culture of Jews viewing themselves as superior to Samaritans. It’s easy for us to talk with people and yet NOT truly see who they are or perceive what they’re experiencing. Jesus truly sees her and recognizes that her heart is craving something more than what she was currently finding in life. In this setting, Jesus calls her to a fulfilling relationship with God and reveals His identity as Messiah. This story tells us a few very important things about the love of God.

Judges 1; 2:1-5

Despite God’s promises the Israelites failed to follow through on their commitment. As a result, God stopped winning battles for them. They failed to drive out all their enemies. When we reflect on reading the New Testament (and the lessons from the book of Hebrews) we should be reminded of this. It had a far-reaching impact on the history of the Israelites.

May 4  Proverbs 11:9-18  John 4:1-26  Judges 1; 2:1-5

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?
• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?
• What should you do about that truth?

May 3  Psalm 55:12-23  John 3:22-36  Joshua 23; 24

Psalm 55:12-23

David sings about the betrayal of a close friend. Through tears and distress, he chooses to ask God for help and believes that God will come through. This song includes a call for others to give what weighs them down to God. “God will take care of you”, he sings. We must remind ourselves of this truth and put it into practice. The more we share it with others the better it is for everyone.

John 3:22-36

John the “Baptist” sees a transition of fewer people following him in favor of following Jesus. John is happy about this. John taught his students six truths about the Messiah. With clarity, John points out the purpose of Jesus as the Messiah, making a way for those who would believe in Him to have eternal life. Here again, we see the specific purpose of the life of Jesus Christ. If we grow calloused to the spiritual needs of others we have drifted away from the primary purpose of our Savior.

Joshua 23; 24

At the end of his life, Joshua calls everyone together and reminds them that God had been faithful to fulfill every single promise He had made to them. Joshua calls them to a point of decision whether or not they will renew this covenant agreement with God. They are called to serve God wholeheartedly. Every person who had experienced what God had done for them, served God from that point on.

May 3  Psalm 55:12-23  John 3:22-36  Joshua 23; 24

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?
• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?
• What should you do about that truth?

May 2  Psalm 55:1-11  John 3:1-21  Joshua 21:20-45; 22

Psalm 55:1-11

David honestly sings about his problems and resulting anxiety. He asks God directly for help. The song includes his desire to escape the trouble. Don’t pretend it’s all good when it’s not. God loves you. God wants to hear from you. We have many good examples of people calling on God’s help, describing what is wrong.

John 3:1-21

Jesus explains the new spiritual life that is available to anyone who would believe in Him as Savior. In a conversation with Nicodemus a Jewish religious leader, He describes this as being “born again”. Jesus reveals this as being possible because of the love of God. We must recognize that Jesus places the love of God at the center of the story. The love of God is priority. New life, a new hope, is only possible as a gift through the love of God. Jesus opens the invitation to all who would believe in Him as Messiah.

Joshua 21:20-45; 22

The Israelites saw God bring His promises to fulfillment in the lifetime of Joshua. They were given a new homeland, with peace on every side. Joshua instructs all Israelites to love God, to live in the way God instructed, and to serve God heart and soul. A personal relationship with the loving God is constant throughout human history.

May 2  Psalm 55:1-11  John 3:1-21  Joshua 21:20-45; 22

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?
• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?
• What should you do about that truth?

May 1  Psalm 54  John 2  Joshua 19; 20; 21:1-19

Psalm 54

David’s in trouble, and yet taking time to pray, worship, and speak of God’s goodness. He is calling out to God. David has seen the help of God. He’s singing about it. This is an important decision and a spiritual practice.

John 2

At a wedding party, Jesus’ mother Mary presses Him to save the family the embarrassment of not having enough wine for their guests. Jesus turns the water into wine. This is His first miracle and the time that His disciples start to believe. Jesus shows respect for His mother and the feelings of the host family. In Jerusalem, Jesus finds the Temple perverted by misuse of money and economic status. The Son of God cares about spiritual priorities and good stewardship. Jesus had a passion for the house of worship.

Joshua 19; 20; 21:1-19

Through Joshua, God continues the instruction previously given to Moses for the establishment of Cities of Refuge so that a person causing an accidental death would be given a fair trial. God cares about a society of equal opportunity, freedom, and removing social shame over status.

May 1  Psalm 54  John 2  Joshua 19; 20; 21:1-19

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?
• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?
• What should you do about that truth?

April 30 Proverbs 10:31-32; 11:1-8 John 1:29-51 Joshua 17; 18

Proverbs 10:31-32; 11:1-8

People, who are learning from their relationship with God, can give helpful perspective and suggestions for healthy next steps. Thinking you have it all figured out is dangerous. A humble approach will bring you wisdom.

John 1:29-51

John “the Baptist” publicly announced the identity of Jesus as the “Messiah”, the predicted Savior. Andrew had been following John. He heard John’s statement and in turn grabbed his brother Peter so that they could follow Jesus together. Philip was from Andrew & Peter’s hometown. He grabbed Nathanael and they also followed Jesus. God cares about our personal relationships. As we receive the love of Jesus we should be motivated to share it with the people in our lives.

Joshua 17; 18

The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh are given extra land due to their size. They are given permission to clear trees and settle as much of the forests of the hill country as they wanted. Our God cares about healthy peaceful relationships and the practical necessities.

April 30 Proverbs 10:31-32; 11:1-8 John 1:29-51 Joshua 17; 18

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?

• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?

• What should you do about that truth?

April 29 Psalm 53 John 1:1-28 Joshua 15; 16

Psalm 53

God brings strength to those who are following Him. Our Creator is a God bringing mercy and justice. Those who reject Him will see consequences. Those who worship our Creator Redeemer will know the peace and joy of God living among them. God will ultimately restore them.

John 1:1-28

Jesus, the Son of the living God, existed before any human. Our Creator God is three in one, triune, and always in perfect relationship. God the Father, God the Holy Spirit, and God the Son have been in constant dialogue throughout human history. Jesus Christ, the Son of God, is the one who brings light and new life. Jesus came to earth and offered to anyone who would believe Him (and accept Him) the right to become a child of God. Through Jesus, we can find the unfailing love of God.

Joshua 15; 16

The “Promise Land” is assigned to the various tribes of Israel as a provision from God through Joshua. God gives specific instructions so that no one is left out. Our God cares about healthy peaceful relationships and the practical necessities.

April 29 Psalm 53 John 1:1-28 Joshua 15; 16

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?

• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?

• What should you do about that truth?

April 28 Psalm 52 Luke 24:36-53 Joshua 13; 14

Psalm 52

David sings about the benefits of trusting God completely and choosing to consistently be in God’s presence, with faithful people. He finds transformative moments and healthy lifestyle. There’s security, a sense of identity, and a sense of belonging. David makes a decision to love God with all his heart.

Luke 24:36-53

After resurrection, Jesus walks His followers through the Scriptures again. Jesus is teaching them, from Scripture, about the significance, the purpose, and the meaning of His death, burial, and resurrection. He is reminding them that His death, burial, and resurrection had been predicted (from prophecies recorded in Scripture). This is proof of His identity as Savior. The purpose that Jesus points to, for all of this is, “forgiveness of sins for all who repent”. Jesus clearly wanted his followers to remember His purpose. Jesus calls us to live for it. This is the starting point for all followers of Jesus.

Joshua 13; 14

As Joshua grew old, God promised to drive out the evil people from the land. God instructed Joshua to distribute the land to the Israelites, according to His instruction. At 80 years old Caleb was the last leader to request the land promised to him. When he completed his conquest the land finally at rest from war. The promise of this land was realized. 40 years from the days that Joshua and Caleb had first seen it. God was faithful to His promise. God responded to the people when they turned away from their sin and worshipped Him.

April 28 Psalm 52 Luke 24:36-53 Joshua 13; 14

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?

• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?

• What should you do about that truth?

April 27 Psalm 51:10-19 Luke 24:1-35 Joshua 11; 12

Psalm 51:10-19

David confesses his sin of adultery and murder. He repents and asks God to show mercy. After asking God to remove his guilt, he seeks a restoration of the relationship with God and a refreshing renewal of his soul. David commits to singing praise of God and teaching others about God. This is a song David sang through his season of restoration. It helps to sing the truth.

Luke 24:1-35

Jesus’ resurrection from the dead brings proof that Father God accepted His death as payment to atone for our sin, and that Jesus is our Messiah, the living Lord. A couple of Jesus’ followers had heard the report of His resurrection and yet they were walking away from the city confused and discouraged. Jesus walks with them, asks them questions, and then opens the Scriptures to explain the proof of His identity as Messiah. Jesus is alive. Jesus points to the purpose of His death, burial, and resurrection. This includes new spiritual life, spiritual cleansing, forgiveness, and joy available to you.

Joshua 11; 12

Following the instructions of God, Joshua completed the military conquest that God had directed to punish the evil. It made a way for them to live in safety as a benefit of their worship of Yahweh.

April 27 Psalm 51:10-19 Luke 24:1-35 Joshua 11; 12

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?

• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?

• What should you do about that truth?

April 26 Proverbs 10:21-30 Luke 23:26-56 Joshua 9:16-27; 10

Proverbs 10:21-30

A healthy relationship with God brings benefits. Living independently of God brings consequences. Considering this should bring us worship as a reasonable response and gratitude. God provides the opportunity for repentance and redemption. Those who reject it will be judged. Giving thanks to the Creator and obeying His instructions reflects a healthy relationship with God.

Luke 23:26-56

Even in the final moments of Jesus’ life, after being tortured, He brings forgiveness to a convicted criminal. Jesus’ love gives life! Jesus spoke His faith in the Father in the final moments. His friends felt deep sorrow at His passing. In the process of providing for our redemption, God has felt much pain. Our response should include asking ourselves, “What do we learn about Jesus from this? What does that say about God? What does that say about His care for me?”

Joshua 9:16-27; 10

Joshua honors the agreement with the Gibeonites despite their deception. God blessed Joshua’s loyalty to a promise he made without seeking God’s direction. Amorites attacked Gibeon because of the treaty with Joshua. God punished the Amorites through Joshua, a hail storm, and causing the sun and moon to hold still until the Israelites had won the victory over them. In obedience to God’s command, Joshua brings punishment for wickedness by leading the campaign to wipe out the kings and people of this region.

April 26 Proverbs 10:21-30 Luke 23:26-56 Joshua 9:16-27; 10

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?

• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?

• What should you do about that truth?

April 25 Psalm 51:1-9 Luke 22:63-71; 23:1-25 Joshua 8; 9:1-15

Psalm 51:1-9

David repents of his adultery and murder. He pleads with God to not be punished in the way he deserves. David asks God to cleanse him from these mistakes and heart attitudes. David asks God to restore joy. David makes public confession and amends, changing behavior and lifestyle. This is an example of repentance seen in Psalm 51 and 2 Samuel 11-12.

Luke 22:63-71; 23:1-25

Jesus is publicly mocked, falsely accused, and sentenced to die. Herod and Pilate question Jesus but cannot find a reason to punish Him. The people demand the death penalty. This speaks to the innocence of Jesus and the injustice of His execution. We must consider what Jesus endured on our behalf. We should also consider the way that God cares about injustice.

Joshua 8; 9:1-15

God grants the Israelites victory of Ai after their repentance of theft. Joshua follows the instructions for the worship of God, down to the details. Then he reads the Word of God to the people. This included the benefits promised for obeying God and the consequences guaranteed for disobedience. Joshua made a peace treaty with the Gibeonites without consulting God, and as a result was tricked by them.

April 25 Psalm 51:1-9 Luke 22:63-71; 23:1-25 Joshua 8; 9:1-15

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?

• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?

• What should you do about that truth?