Daily Bible Reading, July 2022: God’s Renewing Word of FaithMfano

July 25 Introduction After ruling Israel for three years, hostility erupts between Abimelech and the men of Shechem, and the men of Shechem pledge loyalty to a man named Gaal. Abimelech and his followers successfully defeat Gaal and the men of Shechem. Today’s reading concludes with the death of Abimelech. At the end of yesterday’s reading, Jotham cursed the men of Shechem (Judges 9:20), and the end of today’s reading points to the fulfillment of this curse (verses 56, 57). Scripture Reading Judges 9:22-57 Today’s Key Verse: Judges 9:23 God made Abimelech and the men of Shechem hostile to each other, and they rebelled against Abimelech. Reflect According to verse 24, what reason is given for the outbreak of hostility between Abimelech and the men of Shechem? What role does Zebul, the ruler of the city of Shechem, play in today’s story (verses 30-33)? After being wounded, why did Abimelech ask his weapons carrier to kill him (verse 54)? In ancient Israel, it was considered a disgrace for a man to be killed by a woman. What are your thoughts about this belief? (You may recall the story of Jael and Sisera in Judges 4:21-22 from the July 18 reading.) Pray Sovereign God, we pray for an end to hostilities between and among the nations of the world. May peace reign in our hearts as we strive to extend your kingdom on earth through acts of love and mercy. Amen. And now, join us in a prayer of thanksgiving to God for making the Bible accessible to the Deaf community in Peru : Almighty God, in 2017 the Bible Society began translating the Bible into Peruvian Sign Language—the heart language of approximately 167,000 people in Peru who are deaf. We give praise to you that over one dozen Bible stories have been translated and recorded in video formats that have been distributed to the Deaf community through social media, local churches, and local associations. We ask your blessing, Lord God, on the work that the Bible translation team will continue over the next three years as they work on developing translations and distributing them throughout the community. Amen. Tomorrow’s Reading Judges 10:1-18: The Israelites are unfaithful again.