The Jesus Bible Reading PlanSample

SPIRITUAL RENEWAL THROUGH JESUS ALONE

Moses commanded the Israelites to circumcise their hearts rather than being rebellious. Circumcision carried tremendous significance in the minds of the Israelites as it was a physical sign of the covenant between them and God. Living in close proximity to the Canaanites whose worship system involved sexual promiscuity, circumcision of a Hebrew male was a reminder to avoid such cultural rituals. But circumcision was much more than a physical act. A person’s heart must reflect the physical sign. God is concerned not merely with the outward marks of holiness but with the posture of the human heart. The covenant of God required a spiritual change to love God as he desires: with all of one’s heart, soul and strength (Dt 10:12 – 13; 30:6). Such a necessary change only comes through Jesus (Col 2:11 – 12). In Christ our debt was canceled; our flesh which ruled us was buried, and we were raised from death to life.

Jesus, my heart can be a dark, desolate place. Please take it, fill it and transform it, so that it is pure and true like you. Amen.