Weekly Support Reading (15-21 July)
OT: we start this week be continung to conisder the question of suffering in the book of Job
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The first three of Job’s friends argue that he is suffering because he has sinned. Elihu’s counsel to him is that he is sinning because of his suffering - instead of seeing what God is teaching him through it, he argues with God.
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God then speaks and challenges Job – how can he possibly understand the ways of the Almighty, eternal God.
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Job repents, realising that God’s wisdom is beyond him as he is confronted with the reality of the Presence of God.
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God then rebukes Job’s friends and restores Job.
We then continue this week in the books of Psalms. Because of the nature of these books of poems and songs, we will simply note some recurring themes to look out for as you read. Start this week by noting:
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The contrast of the righteous and the wicked
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Prayers for rescue from enemies, for strength, guidance, mercy and/or for God to uphold his cause
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Love for God’s word and God’s ways
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The majesty and power of God shown in the creation
NT: We continue to read through the book of Acts this week. As you read look out for:
- The on-going challenge of the Jew-Gentile debate - should the new Gentile converts have to follow the Jewish Law?
- The active role of the Holy Spirit, in vision, dream and prophecy in directing Paul’s journeys
- Miracles performed by the power of the Spirit working through Paul