April 19 - Week 12 - Doug Mathers

We are finishing our 3rd month of Bible reading ~ if you are still with us (and I hope you are), way to go!

Here are some thoughts, observations and questions for this week's chapters:

Monday Genesis 25

Did you notice Abraham got married again? Wow, talk about stamina. He was an old man when he was married to Sarah, she dies and next thing we know he's married again, apparently to a younger woman because she gave him more children!

Reread verse 5. What wisdom did Abraham demonstrate in the manner he left his inheritance? How did that protect Isaac and his half brothers?

Jump to 27-34 --- why would Esau make this deal? Does it not sound like the dumbest decision in the Bible? For a moment, give Esau the benefit of the doubt concerning his intelligence. Remembering this all took place about 2000 years prior to Jesus, what situation would make this "trade" a good one?

Tuesday Genesis 26

Reread verse 5. What do you notice about God and how he honors faith and obedience? Does this seem fair and right? How does it change how we view our own faith/obedience? Is there more on the line than you thought?

We as Americans have been trained to think as individuals. We hold the inward conviction that each generation will be responsible for itself (for good or bad). But the reality seems to be that each generation sets the trajectory for the next.

How do you think you are setting the trajectory for your children and grandchildren today? How are we doing it as a culture?

Wednesday, Psalm 13

What is the tension the author is feeling? What is his conclusion? When have you felt a similar tension in your life? What was your conclusion?

Thursday, Proverbs 13

Reread verse 22. How does this echo Genesis 26:5?

Friday, John 13

What struck me most as I read this chapter was Jesus' understanding of the events around him and his own future. Verses 1,3,and 11 all emphasize this with the words "He knew.." But read the chapter and observe other ways John emphasizes that Jesus knew exactly what was happening and going to happen to him.

What difference does this foreknowledge make? Why does it matter to you as you follow Jesus or trust God?