Week of November 30 through December 6
Something to think about this week: What it means if you feel “called” to do something.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. Psalm 2 – God’s Anointed Ruler of All Nations.
Tues. – Ephesians 1:1-14 – Blessed and Chosen in Christ.
Wed. – Ephesians 1:15-23 – Christ, Head over All People/Things.
Thurs. – Matthew 1:6-15 – In the Family Line of David.
Fri. – Hebrews 1:6-9 – God Anoints Jesus King.
Sat. – Hebrews 1:10-14—Jesus: Creator and Eternal Ruler.
Sun. – Hebrews 1:1-5; Matthew 1:1-6,16-17 – Expectations of Jesus before His Birth.
Lesson 13 – November 29 – Impartial Love
It is wrong to show some people more love and acceptance based on their social standing or appearance because, thankfully, God does not look on us that way (see 1 Sam. 16:7). Impartial love sees all people of equal worth and considers who best fits certain tasks. It encourages more participation and shows people their value in God’s eyes. Jesus showed such impartial love to people such that He was accused of hanging around only with sinners rather than paying enough attention to the righteous, “better” people.
Saint Peter immediately opens the gates for the man in the SUV and throws him a Big Party. A couple hours later he remembers the poor man still waiting. The poor man asked why he didn’t get a celebration.
St. Peter said we get poor people hear every day. But it’s not very often we get a politician !
Week of November 23 through November 29
Something to think about this week: People in various positions in life such as a janitor, homeless, teacher, doctor, actor, etc.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Matthew 12:1-8 – Extending Mercy More Important than Sacrifice.
Tues. – 1 Peter 1:17-23 – Love One Another from the Heart.
Wed. – Galatians 3:6-9, 13-14 – In Christ, Gentiles Share Abraham’s Faith.
Thurs. – Exodus 2:1-10 – Faith of Levite Mother Saves Moses.
Fri. – James 2:14-17 – Unexpressed Faith Has No Value.
Sat. – James 2:18-26 – Faith and Works Complement Each Other.
Sun. – James 2:1-13 – Disdain the Practice of Partiality.
Lesson 12 – November 22 – Responsive Love
Ask any police detective about MMO and they will know what it means. Oddly the same acronym for solving a crime seems to work as a test for truly serving God.
–
Means – Do I have something that can help another person in need?
Motivation – Is my heart in it?
Opportunity – Is this the right time and place?
–
Lesson 12 mainly discusses motivation and how our action should be pleasing to God, not for the benefit of how it looks to other people.
“No, ma’am, not really,” he said. ”I was going to go fishing, but my daddy told me that I needed to get on up and go to church.”
The teacher was very impressed and asked Johnny if his father had explained to him why it was more important to go to church than to go fishing.
“Yes ma’am, he did,” Johnny said. “My daddy said he didn’t have enough bait for both of us.”
Week of November 16 through November 22
Something to think about this week: Why do we come to church on Sundays?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – 1 Timothy 3:8-13 Preparing to Become a Deacon.
Tues. – Acts 5:12-16 – Healing Ministry Grows the Church.
Wed. – Acts 6:1-7 – Church Sharing Plan Enlarged.
Thurs. – Acts 6:8-15 – Stephen’s Ministry Opposed.
Fri. – Acts 2:42-47 – Sharing All of Life Together.
Sat. – Acts 4:23-31 – Prayer for Boldness and Signs.
Sun. – Acts 4:32-5:11 – Sharing All Possessions Challenges the Church.
Lesson 11 – November 15 – Confident Love
In our own strength, we are more likely to stay hateful than come around to loving someone who has wronged us. We often want to see that other person suffer as we have been suffering. Jesus shows us that unconditional love means loving others as He loves us, so we pray that the Holy Spirit will help us change our hearts toward the other person.
But what if you are suddenly sure you are wrong?
When Paul “saw the light” on the road to Damascus, he did a 180
Week of November 9 through November 15
Something to think about this week: Examples of transformation (for example, a caterpillar to a butterfly)
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – 1 Thessalonians 2:1-10 – Example of Faith and Obedience.
Tues. – Ephesians 5:8-16 – Then Darkness, Now Light.
Wed. – John 3:16-21 – Live by the Light.
Thurs. – 1 John 2:28-3:10 – Children of God Love One Another.
Fri. – 3 John 1-4 – Walking Faithfully in the Truth.
Sat. – 3 John 9-12 – Imitate What Is Good Not Evil.
Sun. – 1 John 3:11-24 – Believe Jesus Christ; Love One Another.
Lesson 10 – November 8 – Abiding Love
Love is perhaps best expressed when we are willing to go beyond what is easy or mundane and for the sake of others, do what is uncomfortable, inconvenient, or even painful.
Week of November 2 through November 8
Something to think about this week: Things we find difficult to give up or do for others such as cleaning up someone’s messes or sacrificing our time or material possessions.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Isaiah 5:1-7 – God Is Disappointed with Israel.
Tues. – Isaiah 27:2-6 – God Will Redeem Israel.
Wed. – John 14:8-14 – Believers Continue God’s Work.
Thurs. – John 10:11-18 – Jesus Freely Lays Down His Life.
Fri. – John 15:18-25 – Facing the World as Jesus Did.
Sat. – John 15:1 -3 – Jesus Tends to His Vineyard.
Sun. – John 15:4-17 – Always Love One Another.
Lesson 09 – November 1 – Serving Love
It’s easy to develop a mindset of wanting to be served by others. Jesus’ interests are often best met, however, when we demonstrate what it means to be a servant. It is through love expressed in this fashion that others will know that we are followers of Jesus.
A server brings the customer the steak he ordered with his thumb over the meat.
“Are you crazy?” yelled the customer, “with your hand on my steak?”
“What” answers the server, “You want it to fall on the floor again?”
Week of October 26 through November 1
Something to think about this week: What character traits do others remember about you?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Genesis 24:24-33 – Laban Arranges to Wash Servant’s Feet.
Tues. – Genesis 43:20-25 – Brothers Provided Water to Wash Feet.
Wed. – Ephesians 4:6-9 – Servants and Masters, but Same Lord.
Thurs. – John 13:36-38; 18:15-18, 25-27 – Peter Denies Jesus Three Times.
Fri. – Psalm 41:8-10; John 13:21-30 – Jesus Betrayed by a Trusted Disciple.
Sat. – John 12:1-7 – Mary Anoints Jesus’ Feet with Perfume.
Sun. – John 13:1-15, 34-35 – Jesus Loves His Disciples and Washes Their Feet.
Lesson 08 – October 25 – Love Never Fails
Loving others is the greatest commandment and the most sacrificial. We are commanded to love even those we consider unlovable in the same manner that God loved us. The more tests and trials that I endure, the more in awe I am of the love that Christ demonstrated on the Cross. He told His disciples, “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends” (John 15:13, KJV). After He told them, He demonstrated for them what true love is.
Week of October 19 through October 25
Something to think about this week: What things would you say you “love”.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – 1 Samuel 30:21-25 – Activists and Supporters Share Victories.
Tues. – Romans 12:1-8 – The New Life in Christ.
Wed. – Philippians 2:1-11 – Live by the Mind of Christ.
Thurs. – Colossians 1 :3-8 – Faith, Hope, and Love in Action.
Fri. – 1 Corinthians 12:4-11 Gifts for the Good of All.
Sat. – 1 Corinthians 14:13-19 Pray with the Mind and Spirit.
Sun. – 1 Corinthians 13 – The Life of Love.
Lesson 07 – October 18 – Love for Neighbors
We may discover that the world we live in is different from someone else’s world, but differences do not make one automatically better than another. Samaritans had more in common with Jews than either wanted to admit. The collision of two worlds could be a spark that ignites the Holy Spirit’s flame in the lives of those we reach out to in Jesus’ name.
Week of October 12 through October 18
Something to think about this week: Think about a good Samaritan story you have heard about this week.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Deuteronomy 15:7-11 — Help Your Neighbor in Need.
Tues. – 1 John 4:16-21 — Love God and Brothers and Sisters.
Wed. – Mark 12:28-34 — Adopt the First Commandments.
Thurs. – Luke 17:11-19 — Jesus Accepts Thanks from Healed Samaritan.
Fri. – Luke 9:51-56 — Samaritan Village Refuses to Welcome Jesus.
Sat. – John 4:1-15 — Jesus Offers Samaritan Woman Living Water.
Sun. – Luke 10:25-37 — Follow the Samaritan’s Example.
Lesson 06 – October 11 – Love for Enemies
Godly love is unconditional and selfless, seeking only good for others, even enemies, and expecting nothing in return. On the other hand, worldly love is conditional and selfish, and often demanding more from others than it is willing to give. Worldly love ceases when not reciprocated. Worldly love does good only to those who are kind in return. And worldly love lends only to others from whom there is a reasonable expectation of repayment. Worldly love seeks to gratify self, even to the detriment of others, whereas godly love seeks to benefit others, even to the detriment of self.
Week of October 5 through October 11
Something to think about this week: How would you define an enemy?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Psalm 103:1-14—The Lord Is Merciful and Gracious.
Tues. – Matthew 5:38-42—Responding to Unwanted Demands.
Wed. – Leviticus 25:35-39—Handling Family Difficulties.
Thurs. – Psalm 128—Home Life of the Faithful.
Fri. – Luke 23:32-36—Forgiving the Ignorant.
Sat. – Matthew 5:1-12—Blessed and Rewarded.
Sun. – Luke 6:27-36—Love and Forgive Your Enemies.
Lesson 05 – October 4 – Love that Intercedes
It’s easy not to get involved when someone may need help. We may say, “I’ll pray for you” when our actions are needed as much as our prayers. Being comfortable and watching from the sidelines is less stressful. But there are times when we must dare from a place of love to take loving risks.
Week of September 28 through October 4
Something to think about this week: What is the riskiest thing you have done lately?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – 1 Thessalonians 3:1-6 – Timothy, My Brother and Co-worker.
Tues. – 1 Samuel 17:41-51 – David Slays Philistine with a Stone.
Wed. – 1 Samuel 18:1-5 – David and Jonathan Bond Together.
Thurs. – 1 Samuel 18:12-18 – Saul Jealous of and Fears David.
Fri. – 1 Samuel 23:14-18 – Jonathan Asserts David as Next King.
Sat. – 2 Samuel 9:1-10 – David Provides for Jonathan’s Son Mephibosheth.
Sun. – 1 Samuel 19:1-7 – Saul Promises to Preserve David’s Life.
Lesson 04 – September 27 – Revealed Love
This week’s Bible lesson focused on Joseph’s reconciliation with his brothers, highlighted by the Lord being instrumental in restoring their fraternal relationships. When we trust God with our past hurts, as Joseph did with his, God will bring about healing. It may not be ‘reconciliation, as it was with Joseph and his brothers, or in some other way we might desire, but it will be in a way that God knows will be what is right and good for us. And the reason is because of His deep and caring love for us.
Week of September 21 through September 27
Something to think about this week: Suffering that people experience such as a natural disaster or a health crisis.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Psalm 43—During Trouble, Maintain Hope in God.
Tues. – Genesis 43:1-15—Benjamin Sent to Joseph with Gifts.
Wed. – Genesis 44:1-13—Stolen Cup Found in Benjamin’s Grain.
Thurs. – Genesis 44:14-17– Brothers Offer to Become Slaves to Joseph.
Fri. – Genesis 44:18-26—Judah Pleads with Joseph for Benjamin.
Sat. – Genesis 44:27-34—Jacob Will Die Without Seeing Benjamin.
Sun. – Genesis 45:1-15—Joseph and His Brothers Reconcile Their Differences.
Lesson 03 – September 20 – Victorious Love
God views His people as a family, and as such, He expects His people to love and nurture one another in caring and involved ways. It is human nature to place a higher ethical standard on others than on ourselves, but knowing that God has forgiven us gives us a reality check about our own failings, which helps us be more gracious toward others. A restored relationship affects others in a family, a circle of friends, and even a church community. Like a splash on a pond, the ripples spread in all directions.
September 14 through September 20
Something to think about this week: Think of some things that people like to restore.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Psalm 51:1-12—Have Mercy on Me, a Sinner.
Tues. – Luke 23:9-15 —Pilate’s Judgment of Jesus, “Not Guilty.”
Wed. – Genesis 42:1-5—Brothers Sent to Egypt to Buy Grain.
Thurs. – Genesis 42:26-28—Joseph Returns Money with Grain.
Fri. – Genesis 42:29-34—Joseph Questions Motives of Brothers.
Sat. – Genesis 42:35-38—Jacob Vows Not to Send Benjamin.
Sun. – Genesis 42:6-25—Joseph Confronts Brothers for Past Behavior.
Lesson 02 – September 13 – Obedient Love
Joseph would not have been in a position to save his family had he not experienced his adversities. God did work to bring His plan of redemption out of adversity—even adversity from evil intent. The evil Joseph endured may be more severe than we ever experience, but we can know that whatever adversity we face, God can display His love and bring His blessing out of it.
September 7 through September 13
Something to think about this week: What signs do you see regularly telling you what laws to obey?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Acts 13:1-5—Paul and Barnabas Appointed for Ministry.
Tues. – Genesis 41:9-13—Joseph, Chief Interpreter of Dreams.
Wed. – Genesis 41:14-24—Dreams of Cows and Corn Explained.
Thurs. – Genesis 41:34-36—Preparing for the Expected Famine.
Fri. – Genesis 41:41-49—Storing Grain for the Future.
Sat. – Genesis 41:53-57—Egypt Feeds the Middle East.
Sun. – Genesis 41:25-33, 37-40, 50-52—Leadership During a Crisis
Lesson 01 – September 6 – Biased Love
This week’s lesson focuses on family dynamics, and it pays particular attention to the dismal relationships Joseph, the son of Jacob, had with his stepbrothers. Many of us have seen jealousy and pride disrupt the harmony of a family, but also, some of us have witnessed how the Lord Jesus can heal broken relationships within a family. Perhaps God has used us to be the family peacemaker.
Summary lesson quotes from the David C Cook Adult Teacher’s Guide, June-August 2020
Week of August 31 through September 6
Something to think about this week: Think about how jealousy can ruin relationships.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Genesis 30:22-24; 35:16-20—Rachel, Mother of Joseph and Benjamin
Tues. – Genesis 37:12-17—Joseph Checks on Brothers at Dothan.
Wed. – Genesis 37:29-36—Jacob Convinced that Joseph Is Dead.
Thurs. – Genesis 40:14-27, 33-40—From Slave to Ruler of Egypt.
Fri. – Acts 7:9-15—Jacob Lives with Joseph in Egypt.
Sat. – James 4:1-7—Caution, Disputes May Lead to Violence.
Sun. – Genesis 37:2-11, 23-24, 28—Jealousy Divides Families.
End of quarter test
Answer the following multiple choice question to test yourself on the topic that we have focused on this quarter:
When we ask for God’s wisdom, what do we receive?
A. Understanding
B. Understanding
C. Understanding
Lesson 13 – August 30 – Two Kinds of Wisdom
James said to beware of the “get ahead” and “promote yourself” wisdom that the world gives out. He warns us that envy and selfish ambition come from the devil, not from God. James also said that when we are focused on nothing but our own advancement and agenda, we may not be concerned with the issue of ethics. Moral boundaries become obstacles in the way of our success.
In contrast to devilish, earthly wisdom, heavenly wisdom is always morally pure. It promotes peace, not conflict. It produces good fruit, not bad fruit.
Week of August 24 through August 30
Something to think about this week: Think about what you have learned about wisdom in our studies the past few weeks.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Matthew 24:3-14—Wisdom about End Time Signs.
Tues. – Jeremiah 38:1-6—Wisdom for Speaking a Prophetic Message.
Wed. – 1 Thessalonians 3:6-13—Wisdom in Knowing Hearts without Blame.
Thurs. – Matthew 5:33-37—Wisdom in Not Swearing Oaths.
Fri. – 1 Peter 4:7-11 —Living Gracefully with One Another.
Sat. – James 5:13-20—Wisdom in the Prayer of Faith.
Sun. – James 3:13-18; 5:7-12 Acting Wisely with Patience and Love.
Lesson 12 – August 23 – Taming the Tongue
James’s words about the tongue are just some of the Bible’s admonitions to watch what you say. James did not say that we should remain silent nor that we should refrain from voicing the truth. What we should do is let the words that flow from our mouths be beneficial and encouraging—as well as uplifting of the One who grants us the ability to speak.
August 23 – There’s something funny about this
Week of August 17 through August 23
Something to think about this week:
Think about words you would most like to hear and those that you would least like to hear.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Proverbs 5:7-14 — Unwise Not to Listen to Teachers.
Tues. – Isaiah 50:4-11 — The Testimony of a Wise Teacher.
Wed. – Colossians 3:1-11 — Slander and Abusive Language Not Allowed.
Thurs. – Psalm 119:169-176 — Use Your Tongue to Speak God’s Praise.
Fri. – Acts 2:1-12 — Believers Are Anointed with Fire and Tongues.
Sat. – 1 Corinthians 12:27-31 — Tongues and Teachers Are God’s Gifts.
Sun. – James 3:1-12 — Speech is for Healing and Refreshment.
Lesson 11 – August 16 – Faith without Works is Dead
Live out your faith wisely. Hear the Word; do what is says. If your faith is alive, it will be evident to others. Got tell-or rather, show-who you really are.
August 16 – There’s something funny about this
Two hunters were walking through the forest one day. All of the sudden, one of them passes out. The other hunter panics and dials 911. The emergency responder says “911, whats your emergency?” The hunter replies “My friend just passed out and I don’t know what to do! I think he might be dead!” The emergency responder replies “Before you do anything, make sure he is dead.” The phone goes silent and then the responder hears a gunshot. The hunter gets back on the phone and says “Ok, now what?”
Week of August 10 through August 16
Something to think about this week:
Think about the the signs that show something is dead–for instance, how do you know if a battery is dead?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Genesis 22:9-19—Abraham Blessed for Fearing God.
Tues. – Joshua 2:1-7—Spies Saved by Rahab’s Quick Actions.
Wed. – Matthew 18:23-35—Forgive Others as God Forgave You.
Thurs. – Titus 3:1-2, 8-11—Devoted to Good Works, Avoiding Distractions.
Fri. – Deuteronomy 6:4-9—Works Guided by Loyalty to God.
Sat. – James 2:8-13—Receive God’s Mercy by Showing Mercy.
Sun. – James 2:14-26—Faith and Works Must Go Together.
Lesson 10 – August 10 – Hearing and Doing the Word
When people think about religion, many think that it comprises rules of what not to do: “Thou shall not do this” and “Thou shall not do that.” And to some extent that is true: We shouldn’t murder, or commit adultery, or steal, or idolize false gods. But that is only one side of Christianity; the other side is what we should do.
August 9 – There’s something funny about this
Week of August 3 through August 9
Something to think about this week:
How would you finish the sentence, “I always obey. . . . “
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Leviticus 19:13-18—Have Impartial Relationships with One Another.
Tues. – 2 Thessalonians 1:3-5, 11-12—Praised for Steadfast Faith in Persecution.
Wed. – Luke 6:20-26—The Poor Blessed; the Rich Criticized.
Thurs. – 1 Peter 3:13-18—Suffering for Doing the Right Thing.
Fri. – 1 Corinthians 1:26-31—God Chooses the Foolish, Weak, and Lowly.
Sat. – James 2:1-7—Treat the Rich and Poor Impartially.
Sun. –James 1:19-27—The Wise Hear and Do Good.
Lesson 09 – August 2
Paul states in 1 Corinthians 10:13, God will not let us be “tempted” (which can also, be translated “tested”) beyond what we can bear. What this implies is that Christ is always with us during our trials and that His Spirit empowers us to endure. Moreover, the Lord is patient with us when we falter and is transforming our character to be Christlike. Therefore, there is a purpose, a very important purpose, to our testing.
August 2 – There’s something funny about this
Week of July 27 through August 2
Something to think about this week: How do you feel when you hear the words, “There will be a test next week.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Colossians 1:24-29 -Suffering on Behalf of the Church.
Tues. – Titus 3:3-7– Saved by God’s Mercy.
Wed. – Luke 11:9-13 – Ask: God Will Supply Your Needs.
Thurs. – Romans 5:1-5—Rejoice in Your Sufferings.
Fri. – Romans 5:6-11 – God’s Loving Actions toward Sinners.
Sat. – Isaiah 40:1-8 – Grass Withers, but God’s Word Stands.
Sun. – James 1:1-11 – Wisdom Overcomes Trials and Temptations.
Lesson 08 – July 26 – Wisdom to Follow
‘I Got This’
This generation has a catch phrase: “I got this.” Well, the truth is, we “got” a lot less than we think we “got.” We think we are wise when we are not. We don’t know what each day will bring, or the number of days we have remaining. We must surrender our lives to Christ because we believe He is who He said He is, and He waits for everyone on the other side of this life. When we “got” Him, we “got” everything. If we don’t, we have nothing.
July 26 – There’s something funny about this
A blonde got lost in her car in a snowstorm. She remembered what her dad had once told her. ”If you ever get stuck in a snowstorm, wait for a snow plow and follow it.” Pretty soon a snow plow came by, and she started to follow it. She followed the plow for about 45 minutes.
Finally, the driver of the truck got out and asked her what she was doing. She explained that her dad had told her if she ever got stuck in the snow, to follow a plow. The driver nodded and said, ”Well, I’m done with the parking lot here at Wal-Mart, now you can follow me over to K-Mart.”
Week of July 20 through July 26
Something to think about this week: Think about at least three things you believe in besides Jesus, God, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Proverbs 3:13-18—Wisdom, the Source of Abundant Life.
Tues. – John 5:19-24—Jesus Does What the Father Does.
Wed. – John 13:30-35—Love as I Loved You.
Thurs. – John 14:15-17—The Spirit of Truth Dwells in You.
Fri. – John 14:18-24—Love Binds Believers to God.
Sat. – John 14:25-31 —Spirit of Wisdom Promised to All.
Sun. – John 14:1-14—Jesus. the Way to the Father.
Lesson 07 – July 19 – The Wisdom of Jesus
Many voices try to tell us who we should be and what we should do. We must obey the Lord and listen to what He says, no matter what others may say.
July 19 – There’s something funny about this
A man visits his 70th class reunion. He drinks a fair amount there and then asks for his crush from high school’s hand in marriage. She accepts and then they drink some more. The next morning the man remembers that he had asked the woman to marry him but not her response, so he calls her up and asks if she said yes. She replies, “Of course I said yes. Thank goodness you called me though.” The man, puzzled asks why. She replies “I forgot who asked me.”
Week of July 13 through July 19
Something to think about this week: What were you expectations about yourself when you were growing up and did you meet those expectations?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Mark 5:35-43—Jesus Restores a Leader’s Daughter to Life.
Tues. – John 4:27-29, 39-42—Samaritans Testify to the Wisdom of Jesus.
Wed. – Colossians 2:1-5—All Wisdom Dwells in Christ.
Thurs. – Mark 7:1-8—Jesus Denounces Human Traditions.
Fri. – Mark 7:9-15—God’s Wisdom Trumps Human Commands.
Sat. – Mark 7:17-23—The Heart, Not the Stomach, Defiles.
Sun. – Mark 6:1-6—Jesus’ Wisdom Astonishes His Hometown People.
Lesson 06 – July 12 – The Boy Jesus
We never stop growing in wisdom; it’s a lifelong process. Though our primary source of wisdom is God, we can also learn from others who are wise. To learn from both sources, we need to listen intently, ask good questions, and compare everything we hear with God’s Word.
July 12 – There’s something funny about this
“Dad, are bugs good to eat?” asked the boy.
“Let’s not talk about such things at the dinner table, son,” his father replied.
After dinner the father inquired, “Now, son, what did you want to ask me?”
“Oh, nothing,” the boy said. “There was a bug in your soup, but it’s gone now.”
Week of July 6 through July 12
Something to think about this week: What did you learn in school as you were growing up that made you wiser?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Ecclesiastes 3:2-8—Everything Has Its Time and Season.
Tues. – Ecclesiastes 3:9-15—Perform Your God-Given Task.
Wed. – Numbers 3:11-13—The Firstborn Belong to God.
Thurs. – Luke 2:21-24—Jesus Presented to the Lord.
Fri. – Luke 2:25-35—Simeon Praises God for the Child.
Sat. – Luke 2:36-38—Anna Speaks about the Christ Child.
Sun. – Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7; Luke 2:39-52—The Wise Boy, Jesus, Amazes Teachers
Lesson 05 – July 6 – Vindicating Wisdom
It’s not easy to put God’s wisdom into practice when there are so many around us that seem inclined to reject it. It seems that we all are tempted at times to follow the ways of the world and to close our ears when God says that doing so is not in our best interests. We also have personal desires that often beg to be satisfied in ways God says are not good. Doing what God says is wise can be a challenge when there are so many voices around us telling us that it is foolish to do so.
Week of June 29 through July 5
Something to think about this week: What was the worst advice you ever received and why was it so bad?
DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Matthew 10:16-23 – Wise Counsel for Defending Your Faith.
Tues. – Isaiah 35:1-10 – Wise Deeds of the Coming Messiah.
Wed. – Luke 7:24-28 – John the Baptist, God’s Messenger.
Thurs. – Matthew 11:1-6 – The Messiah’s Wise Deeds.
Fri. – Matthew 11:20-24 – Woes on Unwise Cities.
Sat. – Matthew 11:25-30 – Wisdom’s Invitation to Come and Rest.
Sun. – Matthew 11:7-19 – Wisdom Is Vindicated by Her Deeds.
Lesson 04 – June 28 – Build your life on the pillars of God’s wisdom, not decaying folly
Foolish people build their lives on themselves, their worldly desires, and whatever feels like fun at the moment. They see their personal happiness as their ultimate goal in life, and if things go badly, it isn’t their fault. Keeping ourselves filled with God’wisdom is a life-long activity. Staying in a personal relationship with Jesus is foremost, because He is the only true source of wisdom. It is also important to have other strong believers shoulder-to-shoulder with you to help keep you, and you them, from slipping into the trap of foolishness.
Week of June 22 through June 28
Something to think about this week: What kind of materials a reputable construction worker uses, and what kind of materials are used by a careless construction worker?DAILY BIBLE READINGS
Mon. – Psalm 119:97-104 – The Law Provides the Edge.
Tues. – Matthew 25:1-13 – Wise and Foolish Bridesmaids.
Wed. – Ephesians 3:7-13 – The Church Proclaims the Wisdom of God.
Thurs. – 1 Corinthians 6:1-6 – Is There No Wise Person Among You?
Fri. – Matthew 7:24-7 – The Wise and Foolish Builders.
Sat. – Psalm 1 – The Benefits of Making the Wise Choice.
Sun. – Proverbs 9:1-6, 8-10, 13-18 – Wisdom Delivers Many Benefits.
Lesson 03 – June 21 – Receive Wisdom’s Gifts
We need God’s wisdom to understand His will for us. God’s wisdom gives us the proper mindset to understand and accomplish His instructions.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – Week of June 15 through June21
Mon. – 1 Corinthians 1:18-25 – Christ, the Wisdom of God.
Tues. – Job 1:1-5 – God Abundantly Rewards Job’s Faithfulness.
Wed. – Job 42:10-17 – God Restores Job’s Family and Wealth.
Thurs. – Proverbs 8:1-7 – Wisdom Calls the People to Respond.
Fri. – Proverbs 8:22- 31 – Wisdom Present and Active During Creation.
Sat. – Proverbs 8:32-36 – Choose Wisdom and Live.
Sun. – Proverbs 8:8-14, 17-21 – Wisdom Affects All of Life.
Lesson 02 – June 14 – Value Wisdom
…God’s wisdom is an invaluable gift from Him, a gift worth “digging for” through prayer, reading His Word, and asking the advice of godly advisors.
It’s almost as if wisdom guards the person who follows it because wisdom may keep a person from making mistakes in life.
Wisdom -> Understanding -> Knowledge
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – Week of June 8 through June 14
Mon. – Galatians 6:1-10 – Work for the Good of All.
Tues. – Romans 15:1-6 – Live Together in Harmony.
Wed. – 2 John 4-11 – Wisdom Is Walking Together In Love.
Thurs. – Genesis 39:6-20 – Joseph Resists Temptation.
Fri. – Proverbs 2:12-19 – Wisdom Saves from Temptation.
Sat. – Proverbs 2:20-22; 4:24-27 – Walk on Just and Good Paths.
Sun. – Proverbs 2:1-11 – Following Godly Wisdom Pays.
Lesson 01 – June 7 – Listen to God’s Wisdom
Sometimes we search for wisdom everywhere except with the Lord and his Word. He is the only one who can give us true wisdom in any situation–for example, only He knows the future and the consequences of our decisions. At times, we mistakenly believe that He does not know “all the facts” in a situation like we do, when in reality He knows everything about every situation.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – Week of June 1 through June 7
Mon. – Acts 8:1-7 – The Faith Community Discerns the Path of Wisdom.
Tues. – 2 Timothy 1:3-9a – Parents Joyfully Pas On the Faith.
Wed. – Psalm 34:11-18 – Learning the Fear of the Lord.
Thurs. – Matthew 26:47-52 – Violence Is Not a Wise Choice.
Fri. – 1 Kings 4:29-34 – The Vast Scope of Solomon’s Wisdon.
Sat. – Proverbs 4:1-9 – Prize Wisdom and Insight.
Sun. – Proverbs 1:1-4, 7-8, 10-11, 20-22, 32-33 – Godly Wisdom for Life’s Decisions.
Summary quotes from the David C Cook Adult Teacher’s Guide, March-May 2020
Lesson 14 – May 31 – Pursue Love and Justice
Consider that life is lighter and freer when we aren’t sweeping things under the rug (lacking justice) or being harsh (lacking love). We don’t have to pretend that “everything is OK” but can be straightforward yet kind.
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – Week of May 25 through May 31
Mon. – Genesis 28:10-17 – Receiving a New Vision of God.
Tues. – Acts 15:10-17 – Justice for Gentile Believers.
Wed. – Deuteronomy 28:1-6, 15-19 – The Up or Down Choice.
Thurs. – Matthew 2:13-15 – Jesus Comes from Egypt.
Fri. – Hosea 11:3-6 – Ephraim Spurns God’s Love and Suffers.
Sat. – Philemon 8-21 – Once a Slave, Now a Brother.
Sun. – Hosea 11:1-2, 7-10; 12:1-2, 6-14 – Respond with Love and Justice Daily.
Lesson 13 – May 24 – Repent of Injustice
“We all have a desire to please God and do what is right in His eyes. We only need to make a commitment to doing those things and stick with it. We want to care for whoever our creator cares for. He’s our Father, and this is pleasing to Him.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – Week of May 18 through May 24
Mon. – Deuteronomy 24:17-22 – Justice for Aliens, Orphans, and Widows.
Tues. – Deuteronomy 17:18-20 – God Requires Godly Rule by Kings.
Wed. – Psalm 15 – Who May Enter God’s Holy Presence?
Thurs. – Jeremiah 22:11-19 – God’s Justice for the Unjust King.
Fri. – Jeremiah 22:20-23 – The City Suffers for Its Disobediance.
Sat. – Jeremiah 22:24-30 – Injustice Ceases the Rule of David’s Throne.
Sun. – Jeremiah 22:1-10 – Repent of Misdeeds and Unjust Actions.
Lesson 12 – May 17
“Obeying God leads us down a path to spiritual prosperity because we are in right standing with Him and avoiding any judgments that can come from our sinful actions. If we think we can somehow get out of or get around the consequences of our sins, we are deceiving ourselves. We may suffer those consequences at any time.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – Week of May 11 through May 17
Mon. – Psalm 86:1-13 – Seeking Divine Help In Troubled Times.
Tues. – Jeremiah 27:1-11 – Land Now Belongs to Babylon.
Wed. – Deuteronomy 30:15-20 – Choose to Love and Obey the Lord.
Thurs. – Jeremiah 38:14-18 – Surrender and the People Will Live.
Fri. – Jeremiah 21:1-7 – Jerusalem Will Fall.
Sat. – 2 Kings 24:20b-25:7 – Jerusalem Defeated and Zedekiah Exiled.
Sun. – Jeremiah 21:8-14 – Choose the Life of Justice..
Lesson 11 – May 10 – Happy Mother’s Day! – The Kentucky Origins of Mother’s Day
“If [we] aren’t experiencing the peace of God, then why is that? Is it lack of prayer and Bible study? Is it the wrong kind of relationships in [our] lives? Is it [our] entertainment (movies, music, social media)? ….before [we] take up [our] phone or turn on the TV, …set aside precious time for the Lord. He will give us peace, wisdom, and direction–but not if we’re not listening to Him.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – May 4 though May 10
Mon. – Genesis 12:1-8 – God’s Worldwide Covenant with Abraham.
Tues. – Jeremiah 31:31-34 – A new Covenant of the Heart.
Wed. – Ezekial 37″15-23 – Divided Peoples to Become One.
Thurs. – Romans 12:9-21 – Just Living in Church and World.
Fri. – 1 – Thessalonians 5:12-22 – Cultivate Peaceful and Just Relations.
Sat. – Zechariah 8:18-23 – Joyful Feasts Draw Newcomers.
Sun. – Zechariah 8:1-8, 11-17 – Enjoy Fruits of Peace and Justice.
Lesson 10 – May 3
“God has a plan for our restoration. It involves our need for a Savior, and life has a way of reminding us of that.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – April 27 through May 3
Mon. – Deuteronomy 30:1-6 – God Promises Restoration of Israel’s Fortunes.
Tue. – Ezekiel 34:11-16 – God Will Shepherd the People.
Wed. – Zechariah 10:6-12 – God Will Strengthen the People.
Thurs. – Acts 5:27-32 – Christ’s Forgiveness of Israel’s Sins.
Fri. – Zephaniah 3:1-7 – Leaders, Priests, and Prophets Don’t Listen
Sat. – Zephaniah 3:8-13 – God Will Preserve a Remnant.
Sun. – Zephaniah 3:14-20 – Rejoice in God’s Glory and Salvation.
Lesson 9 – April 26
“God’s justice neither ignores nor glosses over wickedness. When we stray from His precepts, as the ancient Israelites did, He disciplines us, for His righteousness will not allow for any darkness to distort it. Nevertheless, the Lord is also merciful to those who receive Jesus as their Savior.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – April 20 through April 26
Mon. – 1 Kings 3:16-28 – Solomon Makes a Just Decision.
Tues. – Luke 4:14-21 – Jesus Issues His Platform for Justice.
Wed. – Leviticus 25:8-17 – The Year of Jubilee Established.
Thurs. – Isaiah 49:1-7 – A Light to the Nations.
Fri. – Isaiah 61:1-7 – A New Vision for the People.
Sat. – Isaiah 62:5-13 – Zion Welcomes the Redeemed Home.
Sun. – Isaiah 61:8-11; 62:2-4 – The Lord Brings His People Justice.
Lesson 8 – April 19
“Justice without a voice is fuel for injustice.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – April 13 through April 19
Mon. – Esther 3:1-6 – Mordecai Refuses to Bow to Haman.
Tues. – Esther 3:7-11 – Haman Sets Decree to Destroy the Jews.
Wed. – Esther 5:9-14 – Haman Builds Gallows to Hang Mordecai.
Thurs. – Esther 8:3-8, 16-17 – Decree against Jews Struck Down.
Fri. – Esther 9:18-23, 29-32 – Festival of Purim Established.
Sat. – Esther 10″1-3 – Mordecai Advances Welfare of the Jews.
Sun. – Esther 7:1-10 – Esther’s Plea and Haman’s Punishment
Lesson 7 – April 12
“Scripture tells us clearly that God raised Jesus from the dead…” “…we can be assured not only of our own resurrection but also of our salvation in Christ. Moreover, this assurance makes all the difference in the world in how we live our lives, in the decisions we make, and in the attitudes we harbor in our hearts and minds.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – April 6 through April 12
Mon. – Mark 16:1-8 – Women Find Jesus’ Tomb Empty.
Tues. – Acts 9:1-9 – Jesus Appears to Saul on the Damascus Road.
Wed. – Romans 5:12-17 – Free Gift of Grace and Hope.
Thurs. – 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 – The Dead in Christ Will Rise.
Fri. – 1 Corinthians 15:24-29 – All Things under God’s Control.
Sat. – 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 – Victory through Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Sun. – 1 Corinthians 15:1-8, 12-14, 20-23, 42-45 – All Are Made Alive in Christ.
Lesson 6 – April 5
“Christians acknowledge that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah and that He fulfilled all the messianic prophecies of Isaiah, including establishing God’s justice for humankind.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – March 30 – April 5
Mon. – Hebrews 11:29-35 – Faith Heroes Acted Justly.
Tues – Matthew 21:1-11 – Your King Comes Humbly.
Wed. – Mark 11:15-19 – House of Prayer for All Nations.
Thurs. – Luke 11:42-44 – Neglect Justice at Your Peril.
Fri. – Matthew 12:15-21 – Jesus, God’s Servant Messiah.
Sat. – Isaiah 42:10-17 – God Will Not Forsake the People.
Sun. – Isaiah 42:1-9 – God’s Servant to Establish Justice Everywhere.
Lesson 5 March 29
“Our words and actions have consequences, both for ourselves and for others. One of those consequences, for better or worse, is the tendency of those closest to us to follow in our footsteps. Our knowledge of this should motivate us to be good and helpful examples of what God says is right rather than bad or harmful ones.”
DAILY BIBLE READINGS – March 23 through March 29
Mon. – Psalm 50:1-15 – Offer Sacrifice of Thanksgiving to God.
Tues. – Leviticus 22:17-25 – Bring acceptable Offerings to the Lord.
Wed. Malachi 1:11-14 – God’s Name Is Great among Nations.
Thurs. – Malachi 2:10-16 – Be Faithful to One Another.
Fri. – Malachi 2:17-3:4 – Messenger of Judgement Coming.
Sat. Malachi 3:7-12 – God’s Blessings and Delights Await.
Sun. – Malachi 2:1-9; 3:5-6 – Leading in Troubled Times.
Lesson 4 March 22
“It’s not easy to embrace justice or model what is right. If it was, there would be no need for God to remind us of the importance of doing so…”
Bethel Cumberland Presbyterian Church 