Daily Bible Reading – September 2023, God’s Saving Word: WisdomНамуна

September 5

Introduction

Chapter 7 concludes Jesus’s “Sermon on the Mount,” and today’s reading includes what is often referred to as the “Golden Rule” (verse 12). A warning is given about judging others, and Jesus encourages his followers to ask, seek, and knock to emphasize a lifestyle of prayer and doing God’s will.

Scripture Reading

Matthew 7:1-14

Today’s Key Verse: Matthew 7:12

[Jesus said:] “Do for others what you want them to do for you: this is the meaning of the Law of Moses and of the teachings of the prophets.”

Reflect

Reread verses 7-11. What do you need to ask of God today? Reread verse 12. How does this teaching impact your relationship with others? Jesus warns his followers to avoid the “gate to hell" which is wide because “the road that leads to it is easy” (verse 13). Instead, he says that “the gate to life is narrow and the way that leads to it is hard” (verse 14). What is your understanding of this teaching? Why does Jesus say that “few people find it”?

Pray

Lord Jesus, teach me to ask, seek, and knock in accord with your will. May my actions this day reflect your love as I treat others in ways that mirror life in God’s Kingdom. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Matthew 7:15-29: All those who hear Jesus’s teachings are amazed.