Discipleship Point
from Communion
From Luther’s Small Catechism: Sacrament of the Altar:
What is the benefit of eating and drinking this sacrament? These words, "Given and shed for you for the forgiveness of sins," show us that in the Sacrament forgiveness of sins, life, and salvation are given us through these words. For where there is forgiveness of sins, there is also life and salvation.
Discipleship Prayer
Jesus, thank You for the forgiveness of sins that You have won for me and all people on the cross. Fill my life with meaning as a disciple of Yours. Amen.
How to Read the Bible
Episode 13
The Book of Psalms
The book of Psalms is the largest collection of poetry in the Bible. In this video, we’ll explore the design, shape, and main themes of this marvelous book, which was crafted to be read from beginning to end. The Psalms are an invitation to a literary temple, where you can meet with God and hear the entire biblical storyline retold in poetic form.
https://bibleproject.com/videos/book-of-psalms/
Micro-Meditation
Psalm 1:1-6
- Blessed is the one
who does not walk in step with the wicked
or stand in the way that sinners take
or sit in the company of mockers, - but whose delight is in the law of the Lord,
and who meditates on his law day and night. - That person is like a tree planted by streams of water,
which yields its fruit in season
and whose leaf does not wither—
whatever they do prospers. - Not so the wicked!
They are like chaff
that the wind blows away. - Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment,
nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. - For the Lord watches over the way of the righteous,
but the way of the wicked leads to destruction.
Read the verses of the Psalm.
Mark the words or phrases that catch your attention.
Meditate: talk (or better, write) with God about those words. Ask Him to impress things upon your heart and mind; expect responses.
Teaching or Command of God
Hosea 14:9
Who is wise? Let them realize these things. Who is discerning? Let them understand. The ways of the Lord are right; the righteous walk in them, but the rebellious stumble in them.
The Promise
Proverbs 15:3
The eyes of the Lord are everywhere,
keeping watch on the wicked and the good.
Pondering Point
As you look at your ways, are they aligned with God (and being watched over) or contrary to God ways (and therefore destructive from God’s perspective)?