Daily Bible Reading – January 2022: God’s Renewing Word of Unity in Christ JesusSample

January 1

Introduction

We begin this new year by reading the letter to the Ephesians, which is attributed to the apostle Paul. Paul had been in Ephesus, where he preached in the synagogue and also lectured in the hall of Tyrannus, a philosopher for whom the hall was named (see Acts 19:1-10). The letter to the Ephesians summarizes many of the important teachings found in Paul’s other letters. The opening chapter describes the unfolding of God’s plan and our relationship with God.

Scripture Reading

Ephesians 1:1-14

Today’s Key Verse: Ephesians 1:6

Let us praise God for his glorious grace, for the free gift he gave us in his dear Son!

Reflect

Verses 3-14 comprise a beatitude, or blessing, in which we read about God “giving us every spiritual blessing” (verse 3). The letter was written in Greek, and these verses are actually one sentence, constructed as a series of clauses that describe God as Creator who has redeemed us through Christ and bestowed on us the Holy Spirit. What blessings are recounted in these verses? How is our relationship with God described (verse 5)?

Pray

Holy God, source of every spiritual blessing at the beginning of this new year, draw me close to you. Remind me each day of your grace which you have given me in such large measure. I praise you, Lord God, for your steadfast love and gift of glorious grace. Amen.

And now, join us in praying for those who seek to engage God’s Word. Gracious God, at the beginning of this new year, we lift those who seek to engage your Word and who are making a commitment to study and read the Bible every day. Bless all those partnering with the American Bible Society in this endeavor and guide them each day in their faith journey. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Ephesians 1:15-23: The apostle Paul prays for the Ephesians.

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