Would you like to study the Bible in a fresh way? Patterned after the ancient spiritual discipline of Lectio Divina, this devotional journal allows you to listen for the Holy Spirit as you work your way through the Gospel of Matthew. All you need is this book, a quiet space, and a pen. Join the millions of people who have used this ancient practice over the years to grow closer to God.
Most devotionals feature a scripture and an author's story. While these stories are frequently insightful and inspiring, the author's voice is primary. One's attention can easily drift away from the scripture to the author's thoughts and stories. This devotional journal keeps the scripture primary and seeks to create space for God to talk to you through the scripture and for you to listen carefully for what God is saying to you...today.
Many devotionals are 365 days long, requiring a significant commitment from the reader. 40 Days With... devotional journals are designed to be your companion for just 40 days. Other devotionals frequently jump around from one favorite scripture to the next, making it difficult to follow the context and see the "big picture" of the story of God. 40 Days With... are part devotional and part journal. This hybrid approach allows you to reflect on what you are learning and discerning in your daily time with God.Â
Matthew€s Gospel presents a rich and detailed narrative that presents a complex and multi-dimensional Jesus.  Long teaching discourses are a hallmark of Matthew, including the famous Sermon on the Mount. These long teaching sections provide rich devotional material and it can seem as if Jesus is speaking directly to you. 40 Days with€¦the Gospel of Matthew, Vol. 1 covers the majority of Jesus€ Galilean ministry, while 40 Days with€¦the Gospel of Matthew, Vol. 2 begins with Jesus predicting his death and follows him to Jerusalem, the cross, and the empty tomb. Matthew, Vol. 2 would be an excellent 6-week Lenten study.
Spending 40 days absorbing the Gospel of Matthew is an opportunity for an enriching and rewarding experience in just a few short weeks. While designed for individual use, this book is easily adaptable for use in small groups. Through daily study and reflection, you€ll open your heart to the Holy Spirit and listen for how the scriptures are speaking to you each day.Â
Dedicated, daily time reflecting on Scripture helps you grow in your faith and also helps to keep your daily life in a proper perspective. Studying scripture in 40-day segments makes our study more manageable and perhaps more importantly, increases our ability to stick with it as a daily practice.Â
Be sure to look for other 40 Days With€¦ volumes!
Make the decision to spend a little time with God€s word every day for just six weeks.
You€ll be glad you did.
