December Devotional Journal 2017 by Covenant EFC

DECEMBER D EVOT I O NA L JOU R NA L 2 0 1 7

Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it.

EZRA 10:4 (ESV)

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DECEMBER D EVOT I O NA L JOU R NA L 2 0 1 7

Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it.

EZRA 10:4 (ESV)

Also available at www.cefc.org.sg and “Covenant EFC” mobile app.

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MEMORY FOCUS E Z R A

H A G G A I

( E S V )

2017 JA N UA RY In the first year of Cyrus king of Persia, that the word of the LORD by the mouth of Jeremiah might be fulfilled, the LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia, so that he made a proclamation throughout all his kingdom and also put it in writing... EZRA 1:1

F E B R UA RY And they sang responsively, praising and giving thanks to the LORD, “For he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever toward Israel.” And all the people shouted with a great shout when they praised the LORD, because the foundation of the house of the LORD was laid. EZRA 3:11

MARCH But the eye of their God was on the elders of the Jews, and they did not stop them until the report should reach Darius and then an answer be returned by letter concerning it. EZRA 5:5

APRIL And this was their reply to us: “We are the servants of the God of heaven and earth, and we are rebuilding the house that was built many years ago, which a great king of Israel built and finished.” EZRA 5:11

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M AY

Is it a time for you yourselves to dwell in your paneled houses, while this house lies in ruins? HAGGAI 1:4

JUNE You have sown much, and harvested little. You eat, but you never have enough; you drink, but you never have your fill. You clothe yourselves, but no one is warm. And he who earns wages does so to put them into a bag with holes. HAGGAI 1:6

J U LY Yet now be strong, O Zerubbabel, declares the LORD. Be strong, O Joshua, son of Jehozadak, the high priest. Be strong, all you people of the land, declares the LORD. Work, for I am with you, declares the LORD of hosts... HAGGAI 2:4

AUGUST For Ezra had set his heart to study the Law of the LORD, and to do it and to teach his statutes and rules in Israel. EZRA 7:10

SEPTEMBER I took courage, for the hand of the LORD my God was on me, and I gathered leading men from Israel to go up with me. EZRA 7:28B

OCTOBER The hand of our God was on us, and he delivered us from the hand of the enemy and from ambushes by the way. EZRA 8:31B

N OV E M B E R And after all that has come upon us for our evil deeds and for our great guilt, seeing that you, our God, have punished us less than our iniquities deserved and have given us such a remnant as this... EZRA 9:13

DECEMBER Arise, for it is your task, and we are with you; be strong and do it. EZRA 10:4

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FOREWORD BY SENIOR PASTORS Vision 2028 is spurring Covenant EFC to fulfil her Intentional Disciple Making Church (IDMC) mission within the Church, in our nation and among the nations. local church with a national and global influence. A people with devotion, depth and destiny. God has given Acts 20:28 as a spiritual anchor for our journey towards Vision 2028. “Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood.” – Acts 20:28 (ESV) At last year’s Listening Retreat, God continued to urge us to possess the following:

A Firm FOUNDATION in God “For he was looking forward to the city that has foundations …” – Hebrews 11:10a (ESV) Jesus Christ is the firm foundation of Covenant EFC. Laying a firm foundation for a healthy church means seeking, knowing, loving and proclaiming Christ (Phil 3). How are you building your foundation in Christ today? Your daily devotion is the best place to start!

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A Bold FAITH in God’s Faithfulness “And without faith, it is impossible to please God because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” – Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) A bold faith opposes doubt which slows us, opposes fear which paralyses us and opposes apathy which derails us. Bold faith in God’s faithfulness means our allegiance is unto God. Luke 6:46 says, “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord’ and not do what I tell you?” There is a holy dissatisfaction with our lukewarmness, fear and apathy. Our bold faith in God will see Him restore our spiritual zeal and do far greater things beyond Vision 2028 (Psa 80). How can you be bold in your faith in Christ today? How about B.L.E.S.S.-ing those around you who have yet to know Him? A Burning Focus Towards FRUITFULNESS for God “…whose designer and builder is God …” – Hebrews 11:10b (ESV) God is the Designer and has a destiny for us! God is the Builder and has the resources! He showed us a promise in Isaiah 37:30-31, “And this shall be a sign for you: this year you shall eat what grows of itself, and in the second year what springs from that. Then in the third year sow and reap, and plant vineyards, and eat their fruit. And the surviving remnant of the house of Judah shall again take root downward and bear fruit upward.”Authentic discipleship is about people, not just programmes. Intentional Disciplemaking is about reproducing people of A Certain Kind, not just attending an event. In the process of making disciples, we must not lose sight of the end result of fruitfulness. Will you pray for God to make you fruitful as you abide in Him daily? Are you ready for the harvest of fruitfulness that He has promised? This year as we “Return to Our Foundation”, Covenant EFC’s pulpit and Devotional Journal will be mostly based on the books of Ezra and Haggai. May you have a blessed year of studying, practising and teaching God’s Word (Ezr 7:10)!

In Christ, Rev Tony Yeo and Rev Tan Kay Kiong

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GUIDE TO USING THIS DEVOTIONAL JOURNAL

Prepare your heart in God’s presence ■ Select a fixed time (preferably in the morning before you begin your day) and a quiet place where you can be alone and undisturbed. ■ Observe a moment of silence as you acknowledge God’s presence. Centre down. ■ Begin with a song of worship. Meditate on the lyrics even if you are unfamiliar with the tune. (Refer to the list of worship songs provided.) ■ Ask God to open your heart to hear Him. The English Standard Version (ESV) is the default Bible version translation unless otherwise specified.

SOMETHING TO PONDER...

Examining your life is essential in your faith journey. Your redeemed life as a disciple of Christ deserves careful examining. May you take root and bear fruit in Him!

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W H AT ’ S N E W I N 2 0 1 7 ? Prayer pointers for Pastors and Staff are included every Tuesday. On each Friday, there is a prayer pointer for Lay Leaders (e.g. Board Members, Zone Mentors, CG Leaders, Assistant CG Leaders, and Ministry Leaders), to facilitate your prayer for whoever God brings to your mind at that time.

Allow God to S.O.A.P. you with His Word and Spirit ■ Scripture – Take your time to meditate on the Scripture passage for the day. Pause and mull over words and phrases that stand out to you. ■ Observation – Jot down significant insights and reflections from the passage you have read. You may use the guiding questions provided. The “Deeper Reflection” section is to aid your contemplation of the Scripture. It is not to replace your own observation, for the Holy Spirit illuminates the Scripture to you as you seek Him earnestly. ■ Application – Note down a specific and practical commitment to God’s Word for you. Is there a command to obey, a sin to avoid, an example to follow, or a principle to live out? Where appropriate, share your devotional entry with someone. ■ Prayer – Bring your heartfelt response to God in prayer.

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WORSHIP SONGS N O V E M B E R – D E C E M B E R

HOW GREAT THOU ART Verse 1 O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder Consider all the works Thy hand hath made I see the stars, I hear the mighty thunder Thy pow’r throughout the universe displayed Chorus Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee How great Thou art! How great Thou art! Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee How great Thou art! How great Thou art! Verse 2 When through the woods, and forest glades I wander And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees When I look down, from lofty mountain grandeur And hear the brook, and feel the gentle breeze Verse 3 And when I think, that God His Son not sparing Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in That on the Cross, my burden gladly bearing He bled and died to take away my sin Verse 4 When Christ shall come, with shout of acclamation And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart Then shall I bow, in humble adoration And there proclaim, “My God how great Thou art!” Stuart Wesley Keene Hine © 1949 and 1953 Stuart K. Hine Trust - Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch) CCLI Song # 14181

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HOSANNA Verse 1 Praise is rising, eyes are turning to You We turn to You Hope is stirring, hearts are yearning for You We long for You ‘Cause when we see You, we find strength to face the day In Your presence all our fears are washed away Washed away Chorus Hosanna, hosanna You are the God who saves us Worthy of all our praises Hosanna, hosanna Come have Your way among us We welcome You here, Lord Jesus Verse 2 Hear the sound of hearts returning to You We turn to You In Your Kingdom broken lives are made new You make us new ‘Cause when we see You, we find strength to face the day In Your presence all our fears are washed away Washed away Brenton Brown | Paul Baloche © 2005, 2006 Integrity’s Hosanna! Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing), Thankyou Music (Admin. by EMI Christian Music Publishing) CCLI Song # 4662491

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HEAR OUR PRAISES Verse 1 May our homes be filled with dancing May our streets be filled with joy May injustice bow to Jesus As the people turn and pray Chorus From the mountains to the valleys Hear our praises rise to You From the heavens to the nations Hear our singing fill the air Verse 2 May our light shine in the darkness As we walk before the cross May Your glory fill the whole earth As the water oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;er the seas Bridge Hallelujah, hallelujah Hallelujah, hallelujah Ending From the mountains to the valleys Hear our praises rise to You Reuben Morgan ÂŠ 1998 Hillsong Music Publishing CCLI Song # 2543402

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COME AND SING PRAISES Verse Ascribe to the Lord, O mighty ones Ascribe to the Lord, glory and strength Ascribe to the Lord, the glory due His name Worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness Chorus Come and sing praises to the Rock of all ages Come and sing praises to Jesus my Lord Come and adore Him, bow down before Him Come and sing praises to Jesus our Lord Greg Massanari | Morris Chapman Â© 1982 CCCM Music (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publishing (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) Word Music, LLC (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) For use solely with the SongSelect Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 38277 CCLI Licence No. 324618

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EVERYTHING THAT HAS BREATH Verse 1 Praise Him in the sanctuary Praise Him in the mighty heavens Praise Him, all the earth praise Him Verse 2 Praise Him in His awesome power Praise His great and holy name Praise Him, the whole world praise Him Pre-Chorus From the rising of the sun Let His praise be heard From the east to the west And the north to south Chorus Let everything that has breath Praise the Lord forever Let everything in my soul Praise the Lord! Bridge Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord! Reuben Morgan ÂŠ 2000 Hillsong Music Publishing CCLI Number # 3220205

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HOW GREAT YOU ARE Verse You are deserving Of all the praises Lord My heart is yearning to be In Your presence once more Deep inside my heart is burning I want to give You more For You’re the only one That I adore Chorus How great You are How great You are You are the mighty King And You’ve come to reign in me How great You are How great You are I give You all the praises of my heart Shannon Wexelberg © 1993 Universal Music - Brentwood Benson Publishing (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)); Christ For The Nations Music (Admin. by Maranatha! Music (Capitol CMG)) CCLI Song # 1185909

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HEART OF A SERVANT Verse 1 Standing in awe of your grace Setting my feet in your ways Entering into your presence To behold you face to face Verse 2 God of all heaven and earth Holding me in your embrace Unfailing love that surrounds me Oh...God I stand amazed Chorus My Jesus, my lord You’re the love of my life Wherever you go Wanna be by your side No longer I But Christ living in me Serving you for all eternity My eyes set on you In this race that I run No longer my ways Let your will be done Make me a servant My heart’s ever true Clinging to the cross I’ll follow you I’ll follow you City Harvest Church

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THE SERVANT KING Verse 1 From heav’n You came, helpless babe Entered our world, Your glory veiled Not to be served but to serve And give Your life that we might live Chorus This is our God the Servant King He calls us now to follow Him To bring our lives as a daily offering Of worship to the Servant King Verse 2 There in the garden of tears My heavy load He chose to bear His heart with sorrow was torn “Yet not my will but Yours,” He said Verse 3 Come see His hands and His feet The scars that speak of sacrifice Hands that flung stars into space To cruel nails surrendered Verse 4 So let us learn how to serve And in our lives enthrone Him Each other’s needs to prefer For it is Christ we’re serving Graham Kendrick © 1983 Thankyou Music (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 78897 CCLI Licence # 324618

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PSALM 23 Verse 1 The Lord’s my Shepherd I’ll not want He makes me lie in pastures green He leads me by the still still waters His goodness restores my soul Chorus And I will trust in You alone And I will trust in You alone For Your endless mercy follows me Your goodness will lead me home Descant I will trust I will trust in You I will trust I will trust in You Endless mercy follows me Goodness will lead me home Verse 2 He guides my ways in righteousness And He anoints my head with oil And my cup it overflows with joy I feast on His pure delights Verse 3 And though I walk the darkest path I will not fear the evil one For You are with me And Your rod and staff Are the comfort I need to know Stuart Townend © 1996 Thankyou Music (Admin. by CopyCare Asia Ltd (Singapore Branch)) For use solely with the SongSelect® Terms of Use. All rights reserved. www.ccli.com CCLI Song # 1585970 CCLI License # 324618

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EVERLASTING GOD Verse 1 Strength will rise As we wait upon the Lord We will wait upon the Lord We will wait upon the Lord Strength will rise As we wait upon the Lord We will wait upon the Lord We will wait upon the Lord Pre-Chorus Our God, You reign forever Our Hope, our strong delive’rer Chorus You are the everlasting God The everlasting God You do not faint You won’t grow weary You’re the defender of the weak You comfort those in need You lift us up on wings like eagles Brenton Brown | Ken Riley © 2005 Thankyou Music (Admin. by Crossroad Distributors Pty. Ltd.) CCLI Song # 4556538

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THE CHURCH BEYOND P R AY F O R N O R T H KO R E A “For as the earth brings forth its sprouts, and as a garden causes what is sown in it to sprout up, so the Lord GOD will cause righteousness and praise to sprout up before all the nations.” – ISAIAH 61:11 (ESV)

North Korea was once the birthplace of the Korean revival in 1903 and dubbed the “Jerusalem of the East”, but is now probably the most closed nation in the world. It is a nation plagued by famine, natural disasters and a repressive leadership. Christians are persecuted and many martyred. The majority of North Koreans do not have a chance to hear the Gospel.

Praise God: ■ That by His grace, the Church in North Korea is not just surviving, but growing. The underground church believers, numbering at least 300,000 met in places such as fields, attics and caves to avoid detection. Any possession of the Bible or unauthorised gatherings is deemed a crime, sometimes punishable by death.

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Pray: ■ For the believers in North Korea. This is probably the most difficult country in the world to live out the Christian faith. Pray for boldness and protection to share Jesus with trusted family and friends. ■ For its leader, Kim Jong-Un to come to the saving knowledge of Jesus and work for the good of his people. ■ That the Holy Spirit will lead the people away from an idolatrous worship of their present and past leaders. ■ That the world will not isolate North Korea as the axis of evil.

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FRIDAY, 1 DECEMBER 2017

Reality Check Scripture Ezra 10:10-14

Observation What does the exiles’ response to Ezra’s confrontation of their sin reveal about their attitude towards it (vv.12-14)?

Deeper Reflection

o we reflect deeply on the nature of sin that God has spoken much about in variegated ways in Scripture? Israel worshipped other gods “on every high hill and under every green tree”, and yet they said, “I am not defiled, I have not gone after the Baals” and “I have not sinned” (Jer 2:20, 23, 35). This can happen to us too. Sin is so sinisterly dangerous. The exiles responded to Ezra’s confrontation of their sin (vv.10-11) with a reality check (vv.12-14). Recognise our condition: “we have transgressed greatly” (v.13). Mark the word “greatly”. It was not merely words, but signified deep conviction. They saw their sin as God saw it. How could they see that? They saw it in God’s Word (Ezr 9:1-2; 10:3). Realise the consequence: “the fierce anger of our God in this matter” (v.14). Again, they saw this in Scripture. The Psalmist who had sinned was fearful of God’s presence leaving him (Psa 51:11). God does judge His church for sin (1 Cor 11:30-31; Rev 3:15-16). We will reap what we sow (Gal 6:7-8). Return with commitment: “We must do as you say” (v.12, NIV). There was determination to do it “until the fierce anger of our God is turned away from us” (v.14). God’s anger was very real to them.

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Application What changes do I need to make in the way I view sin before God?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders:

To be saved and kept from indifference towards sin

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SATURDAY, 2 DECEMBER 2017

Practicality and Spirituality Scripture Ezra 10:12-14

Observation How do verses 12 to 14 show the spiritual and practical sides of the exiles dealing with their sin of mixed marriage?

Deeper Reflection

he expressions “we have greatly transgressed” (v.13) and “the fierce anger of our God” (v.14) underscore the spiritual gravity and urgency of the matter at hand. But spirituality ought not exclude practicality. In fact, spirituality and practically will “both diminish when they are set in opposition against each other”1. The theological reality is: The spiritual is practical, and the practical is spiritual. “The Word was God” and “the Word became flesh” (Jn 1:1, 14). The people, who were fully committed to the reform, saw the realistic situation: “there are many people”, they could not stand in the open for long during this “rainy season” and the task could not be done “in one or two days” (v.13). To steadfastly stand long under the winter rain was sheer foolishness, not radical discipleship! This was then followed by the practical suggestion of a logical implementation procedure: the leaders “represent the whole assembly” and the offenders “come at appointed times” (v.14). Why waste unnecessary time waiting? “There was no need to act unwisely, hastily or without great care for all involved.”2 The proposal came from the people, and Ezra the leader received and accepted it in humble submission.

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Application What areas in my life do I need to keep a holistic balance of spirituality and practicality?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

1 2

Robert Fyall, The Message of Ezra & Haggai, The Bible Speaks Today (IVP, 2010), 133 Gary V. Smith, Ezra-Nehemiah, Esther, Cornerstone Biblical Commentary (Tyndale, 2010), 97

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SUNDAY, 3 DECEMBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL • WEEK 1 • DECEMBER 2017

WHY MUST I GIVE GENEROUSLY? I can give generously because God has given me so much. Scripture: Malachi 3:10; 1 John 4:9-10

ACTIVITY BITE

On two separate pieces of paper, write down a Christmas gift for yourself and a gift for your friend. There are two conditions for this activity. One is that the gift for your friend must be more expensive than the one for yourself, and two, you will have to pay for it using your savings.

CHAT TIME

Q1: How do you feel about paying a higher price for your friend’s gift? Why? Q2: What does it mean to be generous? Are there occasions when you find it hard to be generous? Why or why not? Q3: In Malachi 3:10, what does it mean when God says He wants to “pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it”?

LEARNING POINT

1 John 4:9-10 says that God gave us His son to die for our sins. And Jesus did all that without expecting anything in return. Jesus gave freely and we didn’t even deserve it! God wants us to learn to be generous too. We can share what we have, like our toys and video games, or by doing good deeds for other people, even when they don’t deserve it. When we give like that, we show others who Jesus is.

ACTION POINT

For parents: Every time you see your child doing a generous deed, write a note praising them and paste it on their mirror. Affirming your child will empower them to keep going!

PRAYER POWER

“God, thank You for giving us the most amazing gift anyone could give − Your Son. Please help us to remember that whenever we see Christmas presents. Help us to think more about what we are giving rather than receiving this year. Amen.” Adapted from 252Basics December 2017. www.thinkorange.com

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MONDAY, 4 DECEMBER 2017

Mixed Marriage and God’s Redemptive Purpose Scripture

Genesis 24:1-9; 18:17-19

Observation What is God’s redemptive purpose for marriage in the lives of His people (vv.1-9; Gen 18:17-19)?

Deeper Reflection

e will understand why God forbids mixed marriage if we grasp God’s redemptive purpose of marriage. Abraham singlemindedly aligned his life to God’s purpose with regard to the land (Gen 23) and the seed (Gen 24), which ultimately is “in you and your descendants all the nations of the earth shall be blessed” (Gen 12:3; 22:18). When Abraham sent his servant to get a wife for Isaac, he clearly and emphatically instructed him that the mate must not be from Canaan (vv.3-4) and the marriage must be in Canaan (vv.5-8). To Abraham, marriage must serve God’s purpose (v.7). God intends for the family to be characterised by “keeping the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice” so as be a blessing to the nations (Gen 18:17-19). This can hardly happen in a family formed out of a mixed marriage. Israel, Abraham’s descendants, was chosen and called to shine as witness to the nations for God and His standards with the distinctive self-identity of “the holy race/seed” (Ezr 9:2), which was threatened by mixed marriage in Ezra’s day. If you truly want to see God fulfilling His purpose for your life, then marrying an unbeliever will be totally out of the question.

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Application What does it mean for me to have my marriage (either present or future) aligned to and fulfilling Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s redemptive purpose?

Those in need Se l

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Leaders

God, we pray that the married couples among Your people will let Christ rule as Lord of their marriages, so that their love for each other in Christ will radiate Givi the presence and reality of God to ng t han ks their children; and that they walk with You closely, out of which they teach and model for their children godly living, that as a family they shine as the light of the world. Amen.

Significant people

Prayer

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TUESDAY, 5 DECEMBER 2017

Differing Views in God’s Community Scripture

Ezra 10:12-17; 1 Corinthians 11:17-19

Observation What observations can you make about the differing views in the community of God’s people in verses 12 to 17 and 1 Corinthians 11:17-19?

Deeper Reflection

n the text, “Then the exiles did so” (v.16) follows immediately after “Only Jonathan and Jahzeiah opposed this” (v.15). This seemed to show a contrast. The exiles followed the proposed procedure of implementation (vv.12-14), but some “opposed” it. The question is, what were they “opposed” to? Two possible interpretations. One is that Jonathan and Jahzeiah supported the cause, but opposed the proposed procedure − they “did not want to waste time; they wanted immediate action”3. The other is that Jonathan and Jahzeiah were “against the drastic measures, possibly because they had foreign wives themselves”4. But whatever the case, they refused to participate in what the majority had decided upon. Paul the realist “expected any church to be full of different emphases”5 on various matters: “there must be divisions among you” (1 Cor 11:19a, NLT). But with a divine purpose: that those “who have God’s approval will be recognised” (1 Cor 11:19b, NLT). We must weigh whether the differences are major or minor. In God’s community, we may disagree, but do not disengage. St. Augustine said, “In what is necessary, unity; in what is not necessary, liberty; and in all things charity.”

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Application What changes do I need to make in my perspective and posture with regard to differing viewpoints in the Christian community?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To fly in formation together despite certain differences

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

C. Charles Fensham, The Books of Ezra and Nehemiah, The New International Commentary on the Old Testament (Eerdmans, 1982), 141 C. Charles Fensham, 141 5 David Prior, The Message of 1 Corinthians, The Bible Speaks Today (IVP, 1985), 186 4

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WEDNESDAY, 6 DECEMBER 2017

Character and Making Critical Decisions Scripture Ezra 10:12-17

Observation Why was it important to Ezra to select certain people to form the council tasked with investigating the mixed marriages (vv.16-17)?

Deeper Reflection

he Word-centred Ezra personally “selected” (v.16) leaders to form the council for investigating the mixed marriages. Godliness was certainly a vital criterion, since it was dealing with covenant “unfaithfulness” (Ezr 9:2, 4; 10:2, 6, 10) that provoked “the fierce anger” of God (Ezr 9:14; 10:14). The investigation was marked by fairness. The offenders should not come on their own but “together with the elders and judges of each city” (v.14) who knew their situations. God’s people “wanted a fair investigation in which every case would be carefully scrutinised with the aid of the leaders who had an intimate knowledge of the circumstances”6. We have no idea how individual cases would have been handled.7 But there was thoroughness, as gathered from the educated intelligent guesses of Bible scholars. The investigators would hear what each family had to say; verify the information; if necessary, arrange divorce terms in consultation with the leaders and judges in each city; and they would need to find out the true lineage of various wives, judge if each foreign woman was still worshipping pagan gods and arrange for proper financial support.8 Character matters in making critical decisions.

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Application What do I need to pay particular attention to with regard to how I make critical decisions?

Prayer Lord, fill me with the knowledge of Your will through the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that I may live a life worthy of You, pleasing You in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing to know God deeply, and being strengthened with all power according to Your glorious might, so that I may have great endurance and patience.9 Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

C. Charles Fensham, 140 Robert Fyall, 134 Gary V. Smith, 99-100 9 Colossians 1:9-11 7 8

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THURSDAY, 7 DECEMBER 2017

The Time Taken for Investigating Scripture Ezra 10:16-17

Observation What observations can you make about the council investigating the mixed marriages with regard to the time taken (vv.16-17) and the fact that in the end only 113 men were found guilty (Ezr 10:18-44)?

Deeper Reflection

he investigation council took three months – from “the first day of the tenth month” (v.16b) to the following year (“the first day of the first month”, v.17b) – to conduct the investigation. They “worked slowly, case by case, a few cases each day”10 over the threemonth period. Probably, no investigation was done on the Sabbath;11 so that came up to “approximately 75 working days”12. We do not know the number of people who registered to be investigated, but only 113 men were found guilty (Ezr 10:18-44). This implies that there were cases investigated in which the accused were not found guilty.13 We cannot tell how many cases were dismissed by the investigation council, “but it cannot always have been easy to determine the racial status of a woman who was partly Jewish and partly of Gentile descent”14. And there might have been cases that were “left undecided”15. And there would have been tricky cases that took a long time to decide.16 All these reflect the great care that was taken to manage the whole difficult situation. We tend to hurry because we are busy. We can hurry to accomplish a task, but not with people and relationships, especially the delicate and complex ones. “Love is patient” (1 Cor 13:4).

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Application What areas or situations in my life do I need to practice unhurriedness that is necessary and good?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Gary V. Smith, 97 Gary V. Smith, 97 H. G. H. Williamson, Ezra, Nehemiah, Word Biblical Commentary, Vol. 16 (Word Books, 1985), 157 13 C. Charles Fensham, 142 14 David J. Clines, Ezra, Nehemiah, Esther, The New Century Bible Commentary (Eerdmans, Marshall , Morgan & Scott, 1984), 131 15 H. G. H. Williamson, 157 16 C. Charles Fensham, 142 11 12

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FRIDAY, 8 DECEMBER 2017

Redemptive Kingdom: Forgiven by God Scripture

Matthew 18:21-27

Observation How do verses 23 to 27 in the parable provide elaboration on Jesus’ answer (v.21b-22) to Peter’s question (v.21a)?

Deeper Reflection

eter asked Jesus: “How often should I forgive my brother? Up to seven times?” (v.21a). Peter’s reply of “seven times” was generous, because the rabbis recommended “not more than three times”17. Jesus replied: “Up to seventy times seven” (v.21b) – that is, do away with all calculations and limitations. Then Jesus told a parable of The Kingdom of Unlimited Forgiveness – “the kingdom of God is like…” (v.23). Peter was asking about horizontal-forgiveness: “forgive my brother”; but in the parable, Jesus began with vertical-forgiveness: a “king” forgiving his “slave”. The slave owed the king “ten thousand talents” (v.24). The “talent” was the highest unit of currency and “ten thousand” the highest Greek numeral.18 Jesus’ intent was to show the unimaginable size of the debt. Think of our “ten thousand talents” of sins against God! There is no way we can “repay” God this “debt” (v.25). The only way is if God forgives us, but only after His Son has repaid the debt on our behalf. We can’t say we did not sin on any given day. But, “how often” will God forgive us when we ask for His forgiveness? “Up to seventy times seven”! God is patient and compassionate (vv.26-27).

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Application What do I need to change with regard to how I view God and His forgiveness of my sins?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders:

To forgive without limits as God has so forgiven them

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

17 18

R. T. France, Matthew, Tyndale New Testament Commentaries (IVP, 1985), 277 R. T. France, 277

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SATURDAY, 9 DECEMBER 2017

Redemptive Kingdom: Forgiving Like God Scripture

Matthew 18:21-35

Observation What observations can you make about the motif of forgiveness from verses 21 to 35?

Deeper Reflection

aving talked about vertical forgiveness in the parable (vv.24-27), Jesus progressed to touch on horizontal forgiveness (vv.28-35). A fellow slave of the forgiven slave owed him “a hundred denarii” (v.28) – which was 1/600,00019 of “ten thousand talents”. The second slave pled with the first slave with the exact words the latter had used with the king: “Have patience with me and I will repay you everything” (vv.26, 29). But the responses revealed a contrast between day and night. While the king “felt compassion and released him and forgave him the debt” (v.27), the forgiven slave “was unwilling and went and threw him in prison until he should pay back what was owed” (v.29). We are to have mercy on others just as God has mercy on us (v.33), and to forgive others just as God has forgiven us. And our forgiveness ought to be unlimited like God’s forgiveness. Our sin against each other (100 denarii) is never greater than our sin against God (10,000 talents). When we are “unwilling” to forgive others, it shows that we do not know what it means for God to forgive us. God cannot forgive us if we are unforgiving (v.35). Can we ask God to forgive us for our unwillingness to forgive others?

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Application What changes do I need to make in forgiving those who have hurt me, however badly?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

R. T. France, 277

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SUNDAY, 10 DECEMBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL • WEEK 2 • DECEMBER 2017

ARE THERE OPPORTUNITIES FOR ME TO BE GENEROUS? God has given us many chances to be generous wherever we are. Scripture: Luke 12:16-21

ACTIVITY BITE

Write down the good deeds you can do for your classmates and teachers on pieces of paper, and put them in a box. Get your family members to do the same and see who can come up with more good deeds.

CHAT TIME

Q1: Are you surprised by the number of good deeds you can do? Why do you think you weren’t aware of them before? Q2: Do you think things will be different if you do not do good deeds for your classmates? Why or why not? Q3: Reading from Luke 12:16-21, how many people do you think will be blessed if the man gave out his grain instead of storing them up?

LEARNING POINT

The parable in Luke 12:16-21 tells of a rich man who owned a huge farmland where he grew grain. One year, God blessed him with an abundance of grain. He built a bigger barn to keep the excess grain and died before he was able to enjoy his harvest. The rich man missed his chance to be generous towards the poor by keeping everything for himself. When God gives us something, we can show generosity and share with others by giving some away.

ACTION POINT

For parents: Ask your child to pick a piece of paper from the “others” box. Encourage him or her to do the good deed written on it for one classmate in the upcoming week.

PRAYER POWER

“God, thank You for giving us the things we need, like food and water and a place to live. Help us focus on what we have and what we can give, and not how much we can get. Show Your love through our giving and reveal to us what truly matters. Amen.” Adapted from 252Basics December 2017. www.thinkorange.com

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MONDAY, 11 DECEMBER 2017

“Among the Sons of the Priests” Scripture

Ezra 10:18, 20-22

Observation What is the significance of the list of the men guilty of the sin of mixed marriage (vv.18-44) beginning with the priests (vv.18, 20-22)?

Deeper Reflection

hose who should have known better were unfaithful to God in marrying “foreign wives”: “the priests” (v.18). The priests were “holy to the Lord” (Ezr 8:28). They were spiritual leaders at the centre of God’s people: the temple – God’s holy presence. Thus, priests were subjected to stricter laws of purity than the laity (e.g. Lev 21:13-15 – on marriage). More is expected of leaders. But leaders are no less fallible than those whom they lead. God knew that even the high priest, who alone was allowed to enter the Holy of holies once a year (Lev 16:2; Heb 9:7), was “beset with weakness” (Heb 5:2b). As such, he offered sacrifices for sins for the people and also for himself (Heb 5:3). But being weak, “he can deal gently with the ignorant and wayward” (Heb 5:2a, ESV). First on the list of the guilty priests were “the sons of Jeshua” the high priest (v.18), who co-led together with Zerubbabel in rebuilding the temple (Ezr 3:2; 5:2). Did Jeshua fail in fathering his sons? The Levite whom Micah employed to be a priest in his “shrine” of “household idols” (Judg 17:5-13) was Jonathan, the grandson of Moses (Judg 18:30-31, ESV). Moses? Talk about “perfect” parenting. God is the perfect parent with imperfect children.

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Application How should I support and encourage my spiritual leaders who are as fallible as I am?

Prayer Lord, we thank You for the leaders You have given to Your Church to shepherd us. Fill them with the Holy Spirit, that they will be Spirit-empowered shepherds after Your own heart,20 who walk with You faithfully, hear Your voice clearly, lead Your people wisely, humbly and boldly, knowing that it is You who is building Your Church through them.21 Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Jeremiah 3:15 16:18

21a Matthew

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TUESDAY, 12 DECEMBER 2017

The Hope of Redemptive Grace Scripture

Ezra 10:12-14, 18-19; Micah 7:18-19

Observation What do verses 12 to 14 and Micah 7:18-19 tell us about God and the people guilty of the sin of mixed marriage?

Deeper Reflection

srael fell into covenant unfaithfulness again, provoking “the fierce anger” of God once more (Ezr 9:14; v.14). We may fall again, but still there is the hope of God’s redemptive grace. For God has redeemed us in Christ through His blood for “the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace which He lavished on us” (Eph 1:7). We first say to God, “I have sinned”, just as Israel “acknowledged their guilt” (v.19, NLT). Be like David, and not Saul, when confronted with our sin. David simply said, “I have sinned against the Lord” (2 Sam 12:13) – only two words in Hebrew. Saul said, “I have sinned” – without saying the words “against the Lord”, and this was followed by 14 words of self-justification for disobeying God (1 Sam 15:24). Next, we say, “I will repent”, just like Israel who “pledged to put away their wives” (v.19). It wasn’t easy. Imagine the deep emotional tensions within them. Then God says to us, “I forgive you.” Israel offered “a ram of the flock as a guilt offering” (v.19, NIV). Atonement was made and they were forgiven (Lev 5:15-16) – by the God who pardons sin, passes over transgression, treads our iniquities under foot and cast all our sins into the depths of the sea (Mic 7:18-19).

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Application What does it mean for me to live with the hope of God’s redemptive grace?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff: To lead in the hope of God’s redemptive grace

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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WEDNESDAY, 13 DECEMBER 2017

Danger of Adulterating Biblical Faith Scripture

Ezra 9:1-2; 10:3, 11, 19; Nehemiah 13:23-25

Observation What are some of the reasons indicated in verses 1 to 2 and Nehemiah 13:23-25 for divorcing foreign wives in Ezra’s day (Ezr 10:3, 11, 19)?

Deeper Reflection

ivorcing the foreign wives (Ezr 10:3, 11, 19) seems to be “an overly harsh measure” with “racial overtones”22. What Scripture commands is clear: “Do not intermarry with them” (Deut 7:3-4). However, Scripture also shows that Israelites can marry non-Israelites who turned from idolatry to worship God, like Rahab (Josh 2:8-11) and Ruth (Ru 1:16-17). In post-exilic Israel, non-Israelites “who had separated themselves from the impurity of the nations…to seek” God celebrated the Passover (Ezr 6:21; cf. Exo 12:48). Divorcing foreign wives in Ezra’s day was not Scriptural normative. The danger of post-exilic Israel being paganised from without and within was very real. From without were the pagan religions of strong neighbouring nations surrounding the “escaped remnant” with “a little reviving” (Ezr 9:8). From within were the foreign wives who were still practising idolatry. In a later instance of mixed marriages, the children were unable “to speak the language of Judah” (Neh 13:23-24), which means a loss of access to Scripture.23 Israel’s existence as God’s “holy” people (v.2) was so precariously threatened that it demanded such radical separation. When biblical faith is on the edge of being adulterated by anything, we must take decisive radical action.

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Application In what ways do I see my Christian faith being adulterated, and what will I do about it?

Prayer Father, as I feed on Your Word, let Your Word nourish me richly in knowledge, understanding, wisdom and discernment that come from the Holy Spirit to follow Jesus faithfully and mature into Christ-likeness, having the mind of Christ,24 being spiritually strong, sharp and stable in the truth, not easily carried about by every wind of falsehood and deception.25

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Mark A. Throntveit, Ezra-Nehemiah, Interpretation: A Bible Commentary for Teaching and Preaching (John Knox, 1992), 48 Derek Kidner, Ezra and Nehemiah, Tyndale Old Testament Commentaries (IVP, 1979), 144 24 1 Corinthians 2:16 25 Ephesians 4:13-14 23

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THURSDAY, 14 DECEMBER 2017

Living with an Unbelieving Spouse Scripture

1 Corinthians 7:12-16

Observation What does Paul say about those who became Christians after they were married and whose spouses are still unbelievers (vv.12-16)?

Deeper Reflection

aul addresses pastorally those who became believers after they were married and whose spouses were still unbelievers. Do not divorce the unbelieving spouse if the partner wants the marriage despite the religious difference (vv.12-13). Divorce in principle is not God’s will (Matt 19:5-6). The Christian’s lifestyle, love and witness may play a part in leading the other to Christ (v.16). The unbelieving spouse and children are “made holy” through the Christian spouse (v.14). In the solidarity of the family, the consecration, gospel lifestyle, values, faith, prayer and influence of a Christian spouse will permeate the home and in effect amount to a consecrating influence on the unbelieving spouse and children.26 “One Christian in the family makes a different family from wholly unbelieving families.”27 Theologian John Calvin said, “The godliness of the one does more to ‘sanctify’ the marriage than the ungodliness of the other to make it unclean.” But, if the unbelieving spouse wants divorce, “let it be so” (v.15a, NIV), without asserting pressure to prevent it.28 “A recalcitrant partner who is hostile to the new life of the Christian might indeed disrupt the marriage.”29 “God has called us to live in peace”, and the Christian is “not bound in such circumstances” (v.15b, NIV).

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Application How can I come alongside fellow believers who are facing challenges in their lives because their spouses are unbelievers?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Anthony C. Thiselton, 1 Corinthians: A Shorter Exegetical & Pastoral Commentary (Eerdmans, 2006), 108 Anthony C. Thiselton, 108 Anthony C. Thiselton, 109 29 Anthony C. Thiselton, 109 27 28

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FRIDAY, 15 DECEMBER 2017

An Abrupt End Isn’t the End Scripture

Ezra 10:44; Genesis 49:33; Deuteronomy 34:10-12; Nehemiah 13:31

Observation What observations can you make about the way Ezra’s story in Ezra 7 to 10 concluded (v.44) and the way the stories of Jacob (Gen 49:33), Moses (Deut 34:10-12) and Nehemiah (Neh 13:31) ended?

Deeper Reflection

he story of Ezra in Ezra 7 to 10 begins with a solid biographical introduction (Ezr 7:1-10): his priestly lineage (Ezr 7:1-5), his calling and mission (Ezr 7:6-9) and his Word-centred life and ministry (Ezr 7:10) under “the hand of God” (Ezr 7:6, 9). But Ezra’s story ended rather abruptly,30 with no mention of him or any closure to his life and ministry (v.44) – unlike Abraham (Gen 25:8), Jacob (Gen 49:33), Moses (Deut 34:10-12) and Job (Job 42:10-17). If anything, Ezra’s story ended on a “painful note”31 (v.44). Ezra disappeared from the biblical record, until some 13 years later, when he appeared to teach the Word of God, after Nehemiah had completed rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem (Neh 8:1-8). Ezra and Nehemiah are regarded as one single book (Ezra-Nehemiah) comprising two parts. Part two ends with Nehemiah’s prayer, “Remember me, O my God, for good” (Neh 13:31). But there is nothing like this in part one. Do you feel that your current life situation seems to have come to an abrupt end? Perhaps you suddenly you feel lost and uncertain, asking, “What’s next?”. You may only come to see it clearly “13 years” later. God “who began a good work in you will complete it until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil 1:6). Keep walking with Him faithfully and wait on Him patiently (Psa 27:13-14).

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Application How do I face times in my life when suddenly God seems to be silent and inactive, and I am not sure where my life is headed?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders:

To have a steadfast trust in God when walking without light32

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

James M. Hamilton Jr., Exalting Jesus in Ezra and Nehemiah, Christ-centered Exposition Commentary (Holman Reference, 2014), 91 Derek Kidner, 82 32 Isaiah 50:10 31

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SATURDAY, 16 DECEMBER 2017

A Life Reaching Towards the End Scripture Psalm 71

Observation What observations can you make from Psalm 71 about the Psalmist’s journey with God from his birth through his youth (vv.5-6, 17) until his old age (vv.9, 18)?

Deeper Reflection

n Psalm 71, the Psalmist reflected on his life journey with “my God” (vv.4, 12, 22) “from my birth” through “my youth” (vv.5-6) and until “I am old and gray” (vv.9, 18). His Troubles: God allowed him to suffer “many troubles and distresses” (v.20). He suffered attacks from his ruthless enemies (v.4), making him feel a divine abandonment (vv.10-11). His Trust: To him God was “my refuge” (v.1), “my rock and my fortress” (v.3), “my hope” and “my confidence from my youth” until now (v.5). His Tensions: His cries of “Do not forsake me” (vv.9, 18) and “Do not be far from me” (v.12) seemed incongruous and contradictory to his trust in God. But it depicted a real struggle and honest feeling in our human frailty. This psalm, which is the Word of God, gives us permission to be human and feel this way. His Triumph: His worship of God pervaded his life of troubles, trust and tensions (vv.8, 14-16, 22-24). He could worship God “all day long” (vv.8, 15, 24) and “more and more” (v.14) because “Your righteousness” (vv.2, 15, 16, 19, 24) was his theological anchor. The Psalmist sought to disciple the next generation out of his discipleship journey from “my youth” until “I am old and gray” in one thing: knowing God (vv.17-18).

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Application How does the discipleship journey portrayed in Psalm 71 provide me with a perspective to guide my own journey with the Lord?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SUNDAY, 17 DECEMBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL • WEEK 3 • DECEMBER 2017

HOW CAN WE BE GENEROUS WHEN WE ARE NOT RICH?

We can be rich in acts of kindness and not just through having money. Scripture: John 6:1-14

ACTIVITY BITE

Discuss with your family what you can give to people around you that doesn’t cost money, such as a smile, kind words or good deeds. Ask your family members to take turns drawing good deeds on pieces of paper and get the rest to guess what is being drawn.

CHAT TIME

Q1: Is it hard to think of ways to be generous without spending any money? Why or why not? Q2: Why do you think being generous to others through acts of kindness doesn’t come naturally to us? Q3: Do you think you can only be generous when you are rich? Why or why not? What can the boy in John 6:1-14 teach us about being generous?

LEARNING POINT

In John 6:1-14, the boy didn’t have much. He had just five loaves of bread and two fish. Yet he was rich in generosity – he gave them away when Jesus asked for them. We can be rich in God’s eyes by doing good, giving freely and being willing to share with others around us, all of which go far beyond just buying someone a gift. Jesus was not a rich man but He was the most generous of all people. He gave His life for us.

ACTION POINT

One of the ways you can show generosity is through kind words. Use the phone to call or send a text message to someone whom you wish to encourage or show appreciation to.

PRAYER POWER

“God, show us how to give in creative ways. Help us to remember the wonderful gift You gave us when You sent Your Son Jesus to earth as a baby. Remind us to focus on Jesus, and on loving you and the people around us. Amen.” Adapted from 252Basics December 2017. www.thinkorange.com

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MONDAY, 18 DECEMBER 2017

The God Who Is Truly Great Scripture Luke 2:1-7

Observation What does the place of Jesus’ birth tell you about God?

Deeper Reflection

srael waited in anticipation to see the coming Messiah. The Old Testament hung in the balance. The story was left unfinished as it spoke of the promise to come — the great conquering Son of David, King of the Jews, the Messiah who was to be revealed. Here was what His grand entrance looked like: Jesus the Messiah was born in the city of Bethlehem and laid in a lowly manger — a feed trough for farm animals. Why would King Jesus come into this world in such a humble manner? This reveals to us what God and His Kingdom are like. The Jews at the time were expecting a great conquering King who would overthrow the Roman Empire. They were severely disappointed at a man who was crucified as a criminal. Some of Jesus’ disciples wanted to be the greatest among His followers. Instead they were taught that the first shall be last and the last shall be first. The disciples understood that it was the cultural norm for servants to wash the house guests’ feet. Instead they experienced their Teacher washing theirs. When we reflect on the birth of Jesus, we see God’s Kingdom values invading our world. Into our world entered the Servant King, born to be our Lord and Saviour. This great King saved His people not by conquering the Roman Empire with a sword, but by defeating the kingdom of darkness through His sacrifice on the cross. Indeed, God’s ways are infinitely higher than our ways and His thoughts than our thoughts (Isa 55:9). We can trust God to accomplish His good purposes in His efficacious ways.

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Application How is God asking me to trust that His thoughts and ways are higher than mine in a particular perplexing life situation in which I do not understand what He is doing?

Prayer Lord God, please help me to trust You completely, especially when I do not understand You and how You are leading me. Truly, Your ways and thoughts are infinitely higher than mine. I therefore humble myself before You and submit myself to You to follow as You lead me in the road ahead. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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TUESDAY, 19 DECEMBER 2017

The Eyes That Truly See Scripture

Matthew 2:1-12

Observation While the wise men were making their way to the place where Jesus was, what do you think they were expecting to see?

Deeper Reflection

he wise men had travelled a great distance from the East to Jerusalem. They had followed a star which they believed would lead them to the King of the Jews. With much anticipation, they bore their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh — gifts fit for a King. When they arrived in the city of Bethlehem, the star led them to the house where Jesus was. It was not a grand palace. What they saw was a seemingly ordinary child in an ordinary house. Nothing spectacular. But these wise men saw beyond the seemingly insignificant. Verse 11 tells us that when they saw Jesus, they fell to the ground and worshipped Him. One of the early Church fathers, Tertullian, was the first to suggest that these wise men were actually Gentile kings themselves.33 If so, they were humbling themselves before another king — this King of kings — whom they readily regarded as greater than themselves. The wise men had extraordinary sight! They had supernatural insight! There were no indications of the boy’s royalty, majesty and authority. Yet they prostrated themselves before the child and gave Him the highest honour in reverent worship. How could they have known Jesus’ identity? This knowledge must have been given to them from above through the star which they believed and followed. Ultimately it was a divine revelation from God. To their credit, the wise men acted upon God’s revelation without any reservation and were able to truly see ultimate reality. What about you?

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Application How can I grow to see the spiritual reality and significance of people, situations and things around me?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff:

To receive a spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of God

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Cross, F. L., and Elizabeth A. Livingstone, eds., The Oxford Dictionary of the Christian Church (2005), p.1026.

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WEDNESDAY, 20 DECEMBER 2017

The Covenant-keeping God Scripture

Matthew 1:1-17

Observation Why do you think Matthew started his Gospel account this way?

Deeper Reflection

hen Matthew wrote this Gospel, he wrote it with the goal of persuading His Jewish readers that Jesus is the Messiah. It showed that Jesus is the son of David, the son of Abraham. Jesus is the Christ (Greek), that is, the Messiah (Hebrew and Aramaic), which means “one who has been anointed”. One of the important themes of Scripture is God’s covenant faithfulness. The Old Testament has numerous prophecies about a future hope of Israel’s Saviour. Matthew 1 is the fulfilment of God’s covenant with Israel despite Israel’s unfaithfulness in her spiritual adulteries committed against God. Israel repeatedly worshipped other gods and trusted in foreign nations and political alliances. In addition to her persistent idolatries, Israel time and again disobeyed God by committing social injustice and wickedness towards her own people who were poor and powerless. Yet, despite all of Israel’s grave sins, the God of Israel remained faithful to His covenant promises to bless the descendants of Israel. He is the covenant-keeping God! At God’s appointed time, the world saw the first coming of Jesus Christ who would save His people from their sins. Matthew records Jesus’ genealogy to demonstrate that God, in sending Jesus Christ, was fulfilling His covenant promises to Israel’s patriarchs. Formerly, the old covenant was based on God’s people keeping the requirements of the Mosaic Law. After the coming of Jesus the Messiah, the new covenant was based on His blood shed on the cross for the forgiveness of sins. No longer is salvation through works of the Law, but now salvation is through faith in Jesus’ death and resurrection.

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Application How does knowing that God remains faithful to His covenant despite His people’s unfaithfulness shape the way I see Him?

Prayer Heavenly Father, please forgive me for the times when I doubted and questioned Your love for me. Help me, O Lord, to live in a way that pleases You, with unwavering trust in Your steadfast love and faithfulness even when I go through tough times. Holy Spirit, please continue to do a deep work in my inner person. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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THURSDAY, 21 DECEMBER 2017

The Self-giving God Scripture Luke 2:8-14

Observation What observations can you make about the announcement of the birth of Jesus?

Deeper Reflection

his was a joyous and marvellous scene. God allowed lowly shepherds to see a glorious angelic announcement of the birth of Christ. This was accompanied by a majestic and exuberant celebration â&#x20AC;&#x201D; a multitude of angels appeared and greatly praised God for His divine initiative and good purpose. What a glorious occasion of rejoicing! The Saviour, Christ the Lord, was born! In the midst of this celebration, I wonder how God the Father felt at the time. He had given to us His only begotten Son, and the Father knew what the Son would later have to go through: Rejection, betrayal, suffering and crucifixion. God the Father would soon see His beloved Son suffer and drink the cup of His wrath on behalf of sinful humanity. That was the price for the redemption of sinners. Christmas is a time of giving. It is a time of gift-giving among family and friends, but ultimately it is a time of remembering that God the Father first gave to us His Son Jesus Christ. This Gift cost the Giver everything, but salvation is free for us so that men, women and children everywhere can have peace with God through faith in Jesus Christ.

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Application How can I cultivate a truly giving heart towards others in light of God’s sacrificial love towards me?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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FRIDAY, 22 DECEMBER 2017

Divine Disruption Scripture

Matthew 1:18-25; Luke 1:46-56

Observation What do you learn about God and discipleship from these two passages?

Deeper Reflection

he two young teenage lovers were waiting for their big day. They could not wait to get on with their marriage plans. Then there was a divine disruption! Joseph came to know that Mary was pregnant before they had any sexual relations. Although Joseph was entitled to bring this matter to the community to protect his name, he wanted even more to protect Mary from shame. So Joseph decided to call off the wedding privately. Then an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph and told him to marry Mary because the child was from the Holy Spirit. Sometimes God’s plan catches us by surprise. It is not something that we would have planned for ourselves, nor something we imagine would happen to us. Mary would never have imagined that she would be the person God used to bring His Son into the world. How do we respond when God’s plan catches us by surprise? For Mary, she submitted to and obeyed God, even though things were not according to her own plan. For Mary, she said, “my soul magnifies the Lord” (Lk 1:46) and “my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour” (Lk 1:47). She acknowledged the Lordship of God in her life and joyfully participated in God’s assignment for her.

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Application How would you respond to God if and when He disrupts your plans?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders:

To submit and be obedient to God’s plans for their lives

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SATURDAY, 23 DECEMBER 2017

Scripture Reliability Scripture Matthew 1-2

Observation How many times did Matthew refer to Old Testament (OT) prophecies about the birth of Jesus?

Deeper Reflection

ow do we know that the Holy Scripture is true? One of the ways we can testify to Scripture’s reliability as divinely inspired by God is by pointing out the fulfilment of ancient prophecies recorded about Jesus’ birth hundreds of years before it took place. Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem of Judea was the fulfilment of but one of the 61 major OT messianic prophecies which have all been fulfilled in Jesus.34 Matthew wrote to a predominantly Jewish audience with the goal of persuading them that Jesus is the promised Messiah. Matthew’s Gospel was written in a way whereby the bulk of the material was organised into five great discourses, possibly reflecting a parallel with the five books of Moses, that is, the Pentateuch: (1) Sermon on the Mount (Matt 5-7); (2) Commissioning of the Apostles (Matt 10); (3) Parables about the Kingdom (Matt 13); (4) Teachings on the Kingdom (Matt 18); and (5) Teachings on the Second Coming (Matt 24-25). Matthew chapter 1 to 2 contains five prophecies that are fulfilled in the birth of Jesus: 1. Matthew 1:22-23, Jesus is born of a virgin (fulfils Isa 7:14) 2. Matthew 2:5-6, the Messiah born in Bethlehem (fulfils Mic 5:2) 3. Matthew 2:15, Jesus will come out of Egypt (fulfils Hos 11:1) 4. Matthew 2:17-18, the slaughtering of children (fulfils Jer 31:15) 5. Matthew 2:23, He shall be called a Nazarene (fulfils the prophets, in that the concept has its roots in the OT) We see Matthew’s intentionality in how he frames his Gospel primarily to persuade his Jewish readers that Jesus is the Messiah!

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Application How can we use the fulfilment of OT prophecies about the birth of Jesus to share the good news with unbelievers?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

Josh McDowell, New Evidence That Demands A Verdict, chapter 8. The probability of just eight of those prophecies being fulfilled in one man has been calculated by Peter Stoner in his book, Science Speaks, as being 1 in 1017. The probability of 48 prophecies being fulfilled in one man is 1 in 10157. Mathematically, this is an impossibility. In Jesus Christ, not just one major OT messianic prophecy was fulfilled, but all the 61 major OT messianic prophecies were fulfilled!

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SUNDAY, 24 DECEMBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL • WEEK 4 • DECEMBER 2017

ULTIMATE GENEROSITY GOD GAVE US JESUS

God’s highest act of love is sending Jesus to die for our sins. Scripture: Luke 1:26-38, 2:1-20; John 3:16

ACTIVITY BITE

Read Luke 1:26-38 and 2:1-21 about the birth of Jesus − the real story of Christmas. Take turns to retell this story by drawing cartoons using colour markers and pieces of paper. The first person begins by drawing cartoons to illustrate the part where the Angel appears to Mary, and then passes on to the next person to continue. Keep doing this until everyone has a chance to tell different parts of the story.

CHAT TIME

Q1: How do you feel about sharing the Christmas story through drawing? Q2: Are there other versions of the Christmas story that are different from what the Bible tells us? Q3: What can we know about God’s love through the Christmas story?

LEARNING POINT

The Christmas story is very simple but has a very important message – God sent His only Son, Jesus so that He can tell us about God’s kingdom and show us the way back to Him. He lived on this earth, just like us. But He never sinned. Jesus lived a perfect life and then gave up His life by dying on the cross for our sins. God gave us Jesus and this is the ultimate act of love for the world.

ACTION POINT

Retell the story of Christmas to your friends by drawing cartoons to let them know that God loves them.

PRAYER POWER

“Thank You, God, for giving us the most amazing gift we could ever imagine: Your Son. In our busy lives, remind us to take a moment to thank You for all You have given us. As we unwrap our Christmas gifts and give presents to others, remind us that all that matters is the lasting gift of knowing You. Thank You, Jesus, for coming to save us. Amen.” Adapted from 252Basics December 2017. www.thinkorange.com

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MONDAY, 25 DECEMBER 2017

Why Jesus Came into the World Scripture John 18:33-37

Observation What was the purpose of Jesus coming into the world (v.37)?

Deeper Reflection

lthough Jesus of Nazareth was born in a manger some 2,000 years ago, He existed before He was conceived in Mary’s womb. Jesus, the eternal Word, existed even before the creation of the world (Jn 1:1-3, 14). That is why 700 years before Jesus was born, the prophet Micah prophesied: “But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, who are too little to be among the clans of Judah, from you shall come forth for me one who is to be ruler in Israel, whose origin is from of old, from ancient days.” (Mic 5:2) As theologian John Piper observes, “[Jesus’] birth was not a coming into being of a new person, but a coming into the world of an infinitely old person.”35 The personhood, character and personality, along with the purpose for which Jesus came, did not constitute something new.36 Jesus is the Word incarnate, who came into the world for a clear purpose: “To bear witness to the truth” (v.37b). What is the truth? It includes: (1) God the Father has sent37 His Son Jesus into the world to save people (Jn 17:8; 3:16-17); and (2) “No one comes to the Father except through [Jesus]” (Jn 14:6; 1:12-13). Today we celebrate the day our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ came into the world in order to redeem us for God. Out of an immeasurable love for His people, Jesus has opened a way for us through the cross to come back to God our heavenly Father. Let us worship the Lord with grateful hearts and be His faithful witnesses of the truth to people around us.

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Application How can I bear witness to the truth about Jesus to my friends and relatives this Christmas and New Year season?

Prayer Lord Jesus, I praise You for Your amazing love for humankind, that You would choose to take on human flesh and be born of the virgin Mary. Thank You for choosing to die on the cross as an atoning sacrifice for all my sins, thereby making it possible for me — through faith in You, my risen Saviour — to be reconciled to the Father. Help me to share the truth with others. In Your name. Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

35 36 37

John Piper, The Birth of The Ancient of Days, Good News of Great Joy (Desiring God, 2013), 43-44. John Piper, The Birth of The Ancient of Days, Good News of Great Joy (Desiring God, 2013), 43-44. Jesus’ “sent-ness” is a major theme found throughout John’s Gospel.

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TUESDAY, 26 DECEMBER 2017

Count Your Blessings Scripture Psalm 103:1-5

Observation What are the benefits bestowed by our Lord, as listed by the Psalmist in verses 1 to 5?

Deeper Reflection

he day after Christmas can usually go one of two ways. We can wake up complaining about how late the previous night ended, how much cleaning the house now needs, and so on. Alternatively, we can arise counting our blessings — thanking God for family and friends to celebrate with, presents we received and, most of all, the gift of our loving Saviour. Psalm 103 is a hymn full of praise and celebration of God’s goodness and steadfast love towards His people. It is the first of four psalms (Psa 103-106) which summarise God’s dealings with His people before any kings reigned.38 The Psalmist, King David, starts by blessing the Lord and remembering His benefits: God forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases; He delivers me from the pit and crowns me with His loyal love and compassion and He satisfies me with good and renews my life.39 O my soul, thank and praise the Lord for all that He has done in your life! God is truly our good, good Father. Not only in the good times, but also in our dark or grieving periods. Let us choose to count our blessings and praise the Lord, even when we are going through struggles in life: Every blessing you pour out I’ll turn back to praise When the darkness closes in, Lord, still I will say Blessed be the name of the Lord, blessed be Your name Blessed be the name of the Lord, blessed be Your glorious name You give and take away (x2) My heart will choose to say, Lord, blessed be Your name.40

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Application As I look back on the year 2017, what are some events, experiences and growth processes that I am grateful to the Lord for?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for pastors and staff:

That they will end the year full of gratitude to the Lord

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

“Introduction to the Psalms” in the ESV Study Bible (Wheaton, Illinois: Crossway Bibles, 2008), p.941. The rest of the psalm goes on to extol God’s steadfast love, mercy or compassion four more times (vv.8, 11, 13, 17). 40 From the song, Blessed be Your Name, by Matt and Beth Redman (2001). 39

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WEDNESDAY, 27 DECEMBER 2017

Remember Your Identity Scripture John 18:1-40

Observation What common theme can be found in all the questions that were asked in this chapter?

Deeper Reflection

esus twice identified Himself to a group of Roman soldiers and Jewish leaders and officials who came searching for Him in order to arrest Him. Twice, Jesus acknowledged to them that He was “Jesus of Nazareth” (vv.3-8). Three times, Simon Peter denied his identity as a disciple of Jesus (vv.15-18, 25-27). In verses 33 and 37, Pilate tried to ascertain Jesus’ identity: “Are you the King of the Jews?”… “So you are a king?” We see in verse 39 that Pilate came to his own personal conclusion that Jesus was “the King of the Jews”41. It took Pilate, a non-Jew, to correctly acknowledge who Jesus truly was, while Jesus’ own people, the Jews, rejected Him as king. Instead, the Jews sought the death of their king, in exchange for the release of Barabbas, a convicted robber. John 18 contains many questions on the theme of identity. The question of identity is very important for us for at least two reasons: 1. Who we are is determined by whose we are. Only when we know who our Master is can we know our true identity as the people of God. When we belong to the Lord Jesus, we can be certain that we have eternal life and will spend eternity with Him (Rom 13:8-9; 1 Jn 5:11-13). 2. Who we are has implications for how we live. A child of God chooses a very different path in life from one who is not God’s child. A child of God does the will of the Father (Matt 7:21-23). And he follows the example of his Lord Jesus in submission and obedience.

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Application What are some things I must do as a child of God as I look to start the new year?

Prayer Lord Jesus, thank You that I am Yours and You are mine. I want to live this life for You, my Master. Yet often it is not easy to live in obedience to the Father’s will. But You are my Lord, the King who has already won the battle for me and who sits on the throne. I praise You that I can live from a place of victory, secure in my identity in You. Amen.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

It is interesting to note that after Jesus was crucified, Pilate put on the cross an inscription which read “Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews” (Jn 19:19).

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THURSDAY, 28 DECEMBER 2017

Hope in Jesus Scripture 1 John 3:4-10

Observation What are some of the repeated words or phrases that can be found in this passage?

Deeper Reflection

n this season where we look towards the New Year and make resolutions, many of us are wondering whether we should even bother to seek change in areas of our lives that we know are not God-honouring. Perhaps we desire a more consistent quiet time; to relate better with our spouse, family members or colleagues; a healthier diet or to do regular exercise. But why try again when we have struggled repeatedly in the past and failed? Our view of who God is will greatly influence how we read today’s passage. There is an interesting parallel between verses 4 to 6 and verses 8 to 9 (v.4 // v.8a; v.5 // v.8b; and v.6 // v.9). The repetitions tell us that the author is emphasising something. What is it? Some people may see the words “sin” and “sinning” repeated several times and end up spiralling into self-condemnation and hopelessness over persistent sins in their lives. But I suggest that the focus of this passage is found in verses 5 and 8b: “You know that He appeared to take away sins” and “The reason the Son of God appeared was to destroy the works of the devil”. Our hope is in our Saviour! He has come not only to destroy the works of the evil one but also to forgive our sins and help us in our fight to overcome sin. He is on our side. He is for us. He works with us through the tough times that we may come out victorious. As we seek change in the New Year, theologian John Piper reminds us, “Let the freedom to fail give you hope to fight. I write this to you that you might not sin, but if you sin you have an advocate, Jesus Christ. He will help you. Trust him.”42

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Application What are two or three areas in my life that I am committing to and trusting the Lord for change in 2018?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

John Piper, Three Christmas Presents, Good News of Great Joy (Desiring God, 2013), 52-53.

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FRIDAY, 29 DECEMBER 2017

Let Go and Let God Scripture

Proverbs 3:5-6; Philippians 4:6-7

Observation How are we to trust in the Lord?

Deeper Reflection

was involved in a conference and planned to promote my product there. I had a target number of delegates to reach and a certain way I planned to market my product to attract the desired people. But many things went wrong. On the day of the conference, there was a miscommunication with the logistics team and my promotional items were almost left out. The flyers that were meant to be included in the conference pack were omitted. And the delegates just did not seem interested in my product. I was so demoralised and tremendously anxious. Things were not going as planned. How was I ever going to hit my target? Then I was reminded of two things: (1) Trust in the Lord with all my heart and lean not on my own understanding (vv.5-6); and (2) Do not be anxious about anything butâ&#x20AC;Ślet my requests be made known to God (Phil 4:6-7). Clearly evident was my need to be in control and have things turn out the way I thought was best. But this was getting in the way of the Lord working efficaciously in my situation. I learnt a precious lesson that day. If in my view I have a small God, then I will have big problems. But if I see that I have a big God, then my problems are small. Will you resolve to make 2018 a year of letting go, surrendering what is upon your heart and letting God work things out in His way and in His time to achieve the right results, so that God may be glorified in and through your life?

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Application What are my greatest anxieties that I need to “let go and let God” in the New Year?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for lay leaders:

To grow towards living a fully surrendered life to the Lord

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SATURDAY, 30 DECEMBER 2017

Abide in Christ Scripture

John 15:4-7; Mark 1:35

Observation What is one thing the verses have in common?

Deeper Reflection

hese verses have to do with earnestly seeking God in prayer. Simply enjoying fellowship with Him and delighting in His presence. Bringing and baring your heart to God. Many rewards come out of spending unhurried time with the Lord. In verses 4 to 7, the Lord promises that we will bear much fruit and that He will give us whatever we pray for in alignment with His Word. Yet, oftentimes we come to the Lord only in times of trouble, as a last resort or when we have already made a plan and merely want His endorsement. If we are honest, we will discern that often our attitude in our prayer requests is: Not Your will, Lord, but mine be done. As you start the New Year, will you resolve to be like our Lord Jesus? To start every day with the Father, coming to Him with a blank page, allowing Him to lay upon your heart the things that are upon His heart. It is like climbing a mountain to view from the vantage point of the summit as God sees. Seeing the bigger picture. So that when we come back down, while we may not have our problems resolved or everything set up for the day, we have received perspective from God to govern the way we think, speak and act. Let us take some time to listen to what is upon Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s heart for us, even as we make a few resolutions for the following year. Start a new year with a fresh page for our loving and faithful God to write His plans for our good and for His glory.

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Application What has the Holy Spirit placed upon my heart to do in the New Year?

Prayer Write a prayer to God as your response from your meditation on and application of the Scriptures.

Prayer Pointers ■ Give thanks:

■ Pray for leaders:

■ Pray for significant people:

■ Pray for those in need:

■ Pray for self:

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SUNDAY, 31 DECEMBER 2017 SCRIPTURE

OBSERVATION

APPLICATION

PRAYER

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THE PAST WEEK

Review What was my high point and my low point for the week?

What gave me life and what drained me?

How was the Spirit of God at work?

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Reflect What is one key thing that God said to me this week in light of what has happened?

Respond What is one thing I need to do in light of what God is saying? COMMIT IN PRAYER.

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FAMILY DEVOTIONAL • WEEK 5 • DECEMBER 2017

HOW CAN I GIVE MY BEST TO GOD? The best gifts you can give to God are your obedience and love for Him. Scripture: Matthew 2:1-12; Deuteronomy 6:5-6

ACTIVITY BITE

Read Matthew 2:1-12. Do some research on the Internet to find out what the gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh are. If possible, print out photos of these items. Present your findings to everyone in your family.

CHAT TIME

Q1: Why were the wise man willing to travel a long distance and defy King Herod’s order to see baby Jesus? Q2: Why did they give gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh to infant Jesus instead of baby toys? Why did they give such expensive gifts to a little baby? Q3: In what ways can we give our best to God?

LEARNING POINT

The wise men were an example of incredible generosity. They gave Jesus gifts, travelled a long way to find Him and were obedient in not telling Herod about Jesus, even though it was dangerous to disobey the king. They showed us what it means to give like you’re giving to God. Giving our best to God doesn’t necessarily mean offering pretty and expensive things. The best gifts we can give to God are to love Him with all our hearts and to obey His Word. When we give generously to others out of love, it’s like we are giving to God too!

ACTION POINT

For parents: Write a note of appreciation to your children whenever they show obedience to God in their attitudes and actions at home and in school.

PRAYER POWER

“God, thank You so much for the new year ahead of us! Thank You for all the wonderful memories we have made this year in the family and church. Please continue to remind us that we should always give generously like how Jesus gives. We celebrate You today and all You have given us. Praise to You, God! Amen.” Adapted from 252Basics December 2017. www.thinkorange.com

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NOTES

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