Day 7 · January 7
A devotional for today
Today’s readings
- Old Testament: GENESIS 16:1-18:15
- New Testament: MATTHEW 6:1-24
- Psalm: PSALM 7:1-17
- Proverb: PROVERBS 2:1-5
Old Testament
Sarai’s impatience produces conflict through Hagar, but God still sees the afflicted and keeps his covenant with Abram. Later he renews his promise and announces that Sarah will bear the son of promise despite her barrenness and age.
New Testament
Jesus warns against using worship, generosity, prayer, and fasting to impress people. He teaches his disciples to seek the Father, treasure heaven, and serve God rather than money.
Psalm
David asks God to judge him according to truth and to rescue him from violent enemies. God is both righteous judge and shield for the upright.
Proverb
Proverbs urges the pursuit of wisdom like hidden treasure. The one who seeks with humility finds the knowledge of God.
Discover
Jesus reveals the Father we are taught to pray to, and he is the promised Son through whom God’s covenant with Abraham reaches fulfillment. In Christ, what seems impossible becomes certain by grace.
Reflect
God sees the wounded, hears the unheard, and remains faithful when people fail one another. Real devotion begins in secret before the Father who knows and cares.
Fellowship
How does God’s treatment of Hagar reveal his character?
What parts of the Lord’s
Where did you see the human problem most clearly this week?
How does Matthew show that Jesus is the answer to Genesis’ brokenness?
Which Psalm gave you language for prayer?
What does it look like to seek wisdom rather than self-made security?
Prayer
most shape your understanding of prayer?
What earthly treasure most competes for your heart?
How can you seek wisdom more intentionally this week?
Father, teach me to live before your eyes rather than before the applause of others. Help me seek your kingdom first.
slowly today and pause at each line to make it personal.
Lord, thank you that where sin increased, your saving purpose did not stop. Root us in your Word and anchor us in Christ. Looking Ahead Next week the story moves deeper into Abraham’s family, and Jesus continues to teach kingdom life with searching clarity. January 8 - Day 8
Live
Pray the Lord’s