Day 4: Good Order in Worship

Think about the first time you traveled to a foreign country, or perhaps heard somebody speak in a foreign language? What was that experience like? 

Chances are, you needed somebody to help you translate the conversation. You may have been able to pick out certain words that had a familiar sound to them, but for the most part you just weren’t able to understand what was being said.

In 1 Corinthians 14, Paul encourages the people of Corinth to think the same way about their church services. We can safely assume that Paul would have been thrilled that people of faith were coming together, singing together, praying together, reading together, and listening to a teaching from the Scriptures together. But he had one more desire in mind as well: he wanted the people to understand what was being taught, and also to ensure that their gatherings were done in an orderly way. As such, he finishes this section of his letter by writing, “But everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way (1 Corinthians 14:40).” 

As you read today, consider this: Have you ever experienced anything that wasn’t done in a “fitting and orderly way?” What was that experience like?

READING: 1 CORINTHIANS 14:26-40

Have you ever experienced anything that wasn’t done in a “fitting and orderly way?” What was that experience like?

What, if any, questions do you have about the Scripture readings from this week? Where will you go find the answers to these questions?

F260 READING: (A Scripture Reading Plan for Busy Believers)

Read: Nehemiah 11

Reflect: What did you H.E.A.R. from God today?

PRAYER:

Heavenly Father, I confess that there are times when I read something within the Bible that doesn’t initially make sense to me. I also confess that in these moments, I would sometimes rather not read the Scriptures and do something else instead. But I know that You have provided Your Word for a reason, and that understanding Your Word is one way I can better get to know You. So today, I pray that You will lead and guide me as I seek out answers to my questions about You and/or Your Word, and that the truths I learn will help me to grow in ways I never expected or imagined. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

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