Daily Bible Reading, January 2023 - God’s Saving Word: Unity in Christ JesusSample

January 21

Introduction

Jesus instructs his followers about entering the Kingdom of heaven and about avoiding temptations to sin. Today’s reading concludes with the story of a shepherd who searches for a lost sheep to emphasize God’s vigilant love and care.

Scripture Reading

Matthew 18:1-14

Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 18:4

[Jesus said:] “The greatest in the Kingdom of heaven is the one who humbles himself and becomes like this child.”

Reflect

Children were considered a gift from God because they cared for older parents and carried on the family name when the parents died. Yet children had little power and were to obey their parents completely. Jesus used children as an example to show that being powerful is not the way to get into God’s kingdom; what God wants is obedience. What is your understanding of Jesus’s words that we are to humble ourselves and become like a child (verse 4)?

Pray

Lord Jesus, grant me a childlike faith and teach me to obey your teachings with a humble heart. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Matthew 19:13-30: Jesus blesses little children and urges a rich young man to give away his possessions.