SWHW Bible Reading Plan - Year 2 January 2021Sample

January 5

Top Takeaway from Alonda Tanner:

As followers of Jesus, we have the unique challenge of residing here on earth while reflecting the culture and customs of a Kingdom that is not seen with the naked eye, yet is as real as the air we breathe. We are adopting an entirely different value system than the world we live in. 

More than just a choice or desire, this way of living is our responsibility. Our commitment to God and His Kingdom is at the root of our every decision and pursuit. 

So what happens when we drift away from that commitment and the way that God has instructed us to live? We lose sight of our purpose in Him and begin to conform to the world around us; a world that is lost.

“The conclusion, when all has been heard, is: fear God and keep His commandments because this applies to every person.” Ecclesiastes 12:13 

The wisdom of God extends beyond earthly measure. It allows us to weigh our choices against a solid standard of righteousness. Because God's value system is built on what is good and righteous, we can be confident that when walking in agreement with it, He is honored. Exchanging our ways for His requires us to prioritize His wisdom and instructions. 

Wisdom helps us steward our purpose.

Wisdom keeps us from getting lost in ourselves and the complacent and crooked ways of the world. 

Godly wisdom gives us the freedom and responsibility to use the relationships, resources, and influence we have to point people towards the saving grace of God.

It is wisdom that keeps our eyes on the ways of the Lord and is our defense in all circumstances. It keeps us from wandering aimlessly and squandering our time on Earth. When we walk in the wisdom of the Lord, every aspect of our lives becomes an opportunity to serve Him. 

We appreciate our relationships (even the challenging ones) because through them we are able to shine the light of Christ. We can enjoy God's provision, knowing that we are honoring Him in how we steward it. We find joy in working diligently because we know that above all else we are serving our Lord. In serving Him well, we are able to show others the love of God and hope of the gospel. 

The truth is we cannot find lasting reason or purpose for our lives outside of God. He is the source of life and truth. Though it's a gift to have a relationship with the Lord, we should never forget that it is not desire alone that guides us in His ways. Desires shift. Sometimes what we want and what God wants don't align. It is especially important during these times that we lean on the wisdom of the Lord and recall our duty and commitment to Him. 

His ways lead to life. 

Obedience to Him is always worth it. 

It's in our obedience that He is glorified. 

Lord, we know that You have created us for life and relationship with You. When we take our eyes off of You, it's easy to become tangled in the perspectives of the world around us. Our world is messy. There's a lot of confusion. We want to be led by Your wisdom and to be fruitful where You've placed us, honoring what You honor and valuing what You value. Give us the wisdom to live this life well in obedience and honor of You. Amen.