Previous Weeks for Bible Reading Plan & Catechism Memorization

Previous Weekly Catechism Memorization

Teaching the fundamental foundations of our faith in question & answer format

Catechism Songs:

Catechism Youtube Playlist

Week TWENTY ONE

Q: What is the Bible?

A: The Bible is God’s Word to mankind. There are 66 books, written by 40 different authors who were inspired by the Holy Spirit when they wrote them. The Bible teaches us who God is, who we are, and how we can have relationship with God. It is worthy of being read, worthy of being trusted, and worthy of being obeyed; it is the Word of God.

Week TWENTY

Q: What is the tenth commandment?

A: I shall not covet anything belonging to my neighbor. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week NINETEEN

Q: What is the ninth commandment?

A: I shall not lie against my neighbor. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week EIGHTEEN

Q: What is the eighth commandment?

A: I shall not steal. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week SEVENTEEN

Q: What is the seventh commandment?

A: I shall not commit adultery, with my hands, or in my heart. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week SIXTEEN

Q: What is the sixth commandment?

A: I shall not murder, with my hand, or in my heart. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week FIFTEEN

Q: What is the fifth commandment?

A: I shall honor my father and mother, that it might go well with me in the land I live. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week FOURTEEN

Q: What is the fourth commandment?

A: I shall remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. For six days I shall labor and do my work, but the seventh day should be set apart for the Lord my God. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week THIRTEEN

Q: What is the third commandment?

A: I shall not misuse the name of the Lord my God. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week TWELVE

Q: What is the second commandment?

A: I shall not make for myself an image in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or the waters below. I shall not bow down to them, or worship them. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week ELEVEN

Q: What is the first commandment?

A: I shall have no other gods before or besides God. I cannot do this on my own, but by God’s grace I can.

Week TEN

Q: What are the 10 Commandments?

A: The laws God gave to Israel through Moses. These laws taught them how to worship God, and how to relate to one another, and they still apply to the people of God today.

Week NINE

Q: Does obeying God’s law make me righteous?

A: No. My righteousness comes through faith in Christ. I belong to Him, and His righteousness belongs to me. I obey God’s Law out of love for God.

Week EIGHT

Q: What does the law of God require?

A: To love God with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, and to love my neighbor as myself. I cannot do this on my own, but by His grace, I can.

Week SEVEN

Q: How can mankind give God glory?

A: By loving, trusting, enjoying, worshiping, and obeying Him and all His commands.

Week SIX

Q: Why did God create humans?

A:God made mankind in His image; He created them male and female, equal and distinct, to reflect Him and bring Him glory.

Week FIVE

Q: Who/What is the Holy Spirit?

A: The Holy Spirit is the third Person of the Trinity. He is coeternal with the Father and the Son, the giver of spiritual gifts, and the Presence and Power of God in the life of every Christian.

Week FOUR

Q: Who is Jesus Christ?

A: Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, who came down from heaven and became a human, born of the Virgin Mary, lived a sinless life, and voluntarily died on the cross, to pay for the sins of mankind. He rose from the grave three days later, ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of God, until the time comes for Him to return and judge the earth, both the living and the dead.

Week THREE

Q: What is the Trinity?

A:The Trinity is the nature of God. God exists in three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. And all three persons are fully God, and God is one.

Week TWO

Q: What/Who is God?

A: God is the Creator, Sustainer, Authority, and Redeemer of all things. All things were created by Him and for Him.

Week ONE

Q: What is your only hope in life and in death?

A: That we belong to Christ.

Previous Weekly Bible Reading Plan

Weekly readings, Monday through Friday, for the entire year

Designed collectively for our church body & household families

WEEK TWENTY ONE

Day 1

II Peter 1:12-15, Esther 3:1-7

What is the significance of Peter referring to his death as a “departure” or “exodus”? How is describing your earthly body as a “tent” freeing and motivating?
What would our life look like if we never forgot anything that we ever learned? What do you think God wants to refresh your memory about today?
(Esther) Why didn’t Mordecai bow down and pay homage to Haman? What does this show us about Mordecai’s level of devotion and commitment to God?

Day 2

II Peter 1:16, Esther 3:8-15

What does Peter say that his teaching is not? What are some cleverly devised stories in the world today?
Peter gives credibility to his words saying that he was an eyewitness of Christ’s majesty while He was on the earth. How have you witnessed God’s majesty? How does that give credibility to your testimony?
(Esther) What sin do we see in Haman’s life that originally caused his hatred of Mordecai’s people? We can see how this sin leads to even more destructive sins. What does this show us about how sin grows?

Day 3

II Peter 1:17-18, Esther 4:1-9

What event is Peter describing in verses 17–18? See John 17:1-5.
Peter had the glorious opportunity to hear the audible voice of God the Father. How does God speak to His people today? Has He spoken to you before? How?
(Esther) How can we start to see evidence of God’s providence at work in this passage?

Day 4

II Peter 1:19, Esther 4:10-17

What prophetic word does Peter refer to in verse 19? What prophecies in the Old Testament can you think of that point toward Jesus?
What does Peter compare “the prophetic word” to? What should be a Christian’s response to “the prophetic word”?
(Esther) What is Esther’s response to this frightful situation in verse 16? What does this show about her reliance on God?

Day 5

II Peter 1:20-21, Esther 5:1-8

What do these verses teach us about the source of the Scriptures? What does Peter mean that “no prophecy of Scripture comes from someone’s own interpretation?
If someone asked you why you believe the Bible is true, what would you say?
(Esther) What qualities do we see in Esther in these verses? How do we see Esther honoring her husband (the king) despite the circumstances?

WEEK TWENTY

Day 1

Read II Peter 1:1-2, Esther 1:1-9

How does Peter describe himself in his greeting? Why is this important? What does it mean to be a bond-servant? Do you consider yourself a bond-servant like Peter does?
What does Peter say is the result of having knowledge of God? How can you pursue the knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ our Lord this week?
(Esther) What is the setting and context of the book of Esther? Why is it important to take into account the setting of any book of the Bible before reading it?

Day 2

Read II Peter 1:3-4, Esther 1:10-22

What does it mean for you personally to be called “by His own glory and goodness”?
What very great and precious promises has God given us? For what purpose did Jesus give us these promises?
(Esther) How were women treated in that culture? How does this chapter frame Esther’s journey in the coming chapters?

Day 3

Read II Peter 1:5-7, Esther 2:1-11

How are the qualities Peter mentions connected with faith? For what reason does Peter say we should we add these to our faith?
Which of these virtues so far has been the easiest for you to grown in? Which has been the hardest for you? Why?
(Esther) What do we learn about Mordecai and Esther from these verses? Why do you think Esther hid her Jewish identity? What does this tell us about the Persian society and the Jewish people in exile?

Day 4

Read II Peter 1:8-9, Esther 2:12-18

If having these qualities keeps you from being unfruitful, then what are the marks of the unfruitful life? And what is Peter’s view of fruit in verse 8?
Which quality or qualities mentioned in verses 5-7 do you feel God leading you to increase in measure today?
(Esther) How would you describe Esther from what we have read so far?

Day 5

Read II Peter 1:10-11, Esther 2:19-23

How would you describe God and man’s part in salvation based on these verses?
What are the two results of practicing these qualities in your life?
(Esther) By the end of the chapter Esther is queen and Mordecai has saved the king’s life. By all outward appearances, they are safe and secure. How often do you find yourself trusting in your circumstances instead of in God?

WEEK NINETEEN

Day 36

Read 1 Peter 5:5 & Proverbs 29

Who is Peter talking about when he mentions elders? What does it look like for you to submit to your elders?
What would your life look like if God was opposing you because of your pride? How does this motivate you to seek after humility today?
(Proverbs 29) How do the fools/wise deal with their anger? (v. 11) Does this verse contrast any of our cultural norms?

Day 37

Read 1 Peter 5:6-7 & Proverbs 30:1-16

What do we learn about the nature of God from these 2 verses?
Is verse 7 a command or a suggestion? What anxiety do you need to cast on God today?
(Proverbs 30) How does verses 7 – 9 shape how we should view money? Is this consistent or inconsistent with how you view money? What warning does this verse give us regarding pursuing money the wrong way?

Day 38

Read 1 Peter 5:8-9 & Proverbs 30:17-33

What do we learn about the devil from these verses? What do we learn about the global Church?
Peter tells us to be sober, alert, resisting, and firm. What does that look like for you today?
(Proverbs 30) What do you find significant about the author’s list of observations from nature?

Day 39

Read 1 Peter 5:10-11 & Proverbs 31:1-9

What is waiting for us if we remain faithful? What does remaining faithful look like for you this week?
How does/should being called to eternal glory in Christ change your perspective of today?
(Proverbs 31) How do verses 8-9 apply to you? Who are those in our world today who cannot speak for themselves?

Day 40

Read 1 Peter 5:12-14 & Proverbs 31:10-31

What reasons does Peter give for writing this letter?
What are Peter’s final wishes for the church?
How do the descriptions in this chapter apply to you? How can you honor the women of noble character in your life today?

WEEK EIGHTEEN

Day 31

Read 1Peter 4:12-14 & Proverbs 26:1-12

What is the closest thing to a fiery ordeal that you have experienced? What would it look like practically for you to not be surprised next time you are faced with a fiery ordeal?
How does Peter’s description of being “Blessed” in verse 14 differ from how our culture normally uses the word “Blessed”? How is it possible for you to reframe your mind to understand blessings in the way Peter describes?
(Proverbs 26) What type of person is being described in these verses? How does verse 12 relate those who think they are wise to this kind of person? How does this influence how we should see ourselves?

Day 32

Read 1Peter 4:15-16 & Proverbs 26:13-28

For what reasons should Christians suffer? What should we be known for doing when we suffer?
Have you ever praised God in the middle of suffering before? If so, what did you learn from that experience? If not, what can you do to prepare yourself to react to suffering in this way?
(Proverbs 26) What type of jokes do you think are being talked about in verses 18-19? Do these verses convict you in any way? If so, how?

Day 33

Read 1Peter 4:17-19 & Proverbs 27

Looking at it simply, what is happening to believers and unbelievers here? How would you summarize these 3 verses in your own words?
What is the direct application for how we should react to suffering? What does it look like for you to commit yourself to your faithful Creator and do good today?
(Proverbs 27) Can you think of any other verses that have a similar message to verse 1? How can you let these verses shape your perspective of tomorrow?

Day 34

Read 1Peter 5:1-2 & Proverbs 28:1-14

What is an elder? What does it mean to be a shepherd of something?
What does this verse say about how elders should serve? Even if you are not an elder, how does verse 2 apply to you?
(Proverbs 28) How would you describe a hard heart as mentioned in verse 14? What does it look like for you to always tremble before God today?

Day 35

Read 1Peter 5:3-4 & Proverbs 28:15-28

How do the descriptions in verse 3 differ from how the world sees leadership? How might this apply to you?
Peter seems to paint everything through the light of eternity like he does eldership in verse 4. What is something that you need to look at through the light of eternity today?
Are you guilty of closing your eyes to those in need? What does this look like practically for you?

WEEK SEVENTEEN

Day 26

Read 1Peter 4:1-2, Proverbs 23:1-18

How does suffering help to purify us? Does this change your perspective on suffering? If so, How?
What are we to live for according to verse 2? What are you living for today?
(Proverbs 23:17) What would it look like for you to be more zealous for the fear of the Lord?

Day 27

Read 1Peter 4:3-5 & Proverbs 23:19-35

Have you ever experienced the abuse that is described in verse 4? How did you respond in that situation?
How does Peter use an eternal perspective to give encouragement in these 3 verses? How does this eternal perspective apply to you today?
(Proverbs 23) In what way can you change your behavior to honor God with your eating and/or drinking habits that are described in this section?

Day 28

Read 1Peter 4:6 & Proverbs 24:1-16

For what reason does this verse say that the Gospel is preached? How would you define the word, gospel?
What does it look like for you to live according to God in regard to the spirit?
(Proverbs 24:11) Is there anyone in your life who God is calling you to rescue from death or to hold back from slaughter? (v. 11)

Day 29

Read 1Peter 4:7-9 & Proverbs 24:17-34

What is something in your life that keeps your mind from being alert and sober? For what purpose does Peter say to stay alert and sober minded?
Have you ever considered hospitality without grumbling as a command from God? What would it look like for you to be more hospitable this week?
(Proverbs 24) In what one area of your life in which you tend to be lazy do you want to make an effort to be more diligent?

Day 30

Read 1Peter 4:0-11 & Proverbs 25

What kind of gifts is Peter talking about? What gifts have you been given? What does Peter say is the purpose of those gifts?
What should be our goal in all things? What is something that you can praise God for today that you never have before?
(Prov. 25) How should we treat our enemies in verse 21-22 and why? Do you recognize these verses from the New Testament? Where?

WEEK SIXTEEN

Day 21

Read 1Peter 3:1-7 & Proverbs 19

What are the markings of outward and inward beauty? What does this passage say about the worth of inner beauty?
We often try to change our spouse by nagging or controlling them, but the Scripture gives a different way in this verse. How might this apply to you?
(Proverbs 19) How does verse 23 describe the life of one who fears the Lord?

Day 22

Read 1Peter 3:8-12 & Proverbs 20

Verse 8 says that Christ-followers are called to repay evil with blessing. Are you good at doing this?
How does verse 12 describe the relationship between God and the righteous?
(Proverbs 20) How does verse 22 say that we should act when we are wronged?

Day 23

Read 1Peter 3:13-16 & Proverbs 21:1-16

Instead of being afraid, what should Christians do when they suffer?
What can you do to become more prepared to describe why you have hope in the face of suffering?
(Proverbs 21) What does verse 3 say that God desires more than sacrifice? Do you live your life in light of this truth?

Day 24

Read 1Peter 3:17-18 & Proverbs 21:17-31

Why did Christ suffer?
What truths about Christ’s suffering would most help you when you suffer?
(Proverbs 21) What is the difference between the lazy person and the righteous person in verses 24-25?

Day 25

Read 1Peter 2:19-20 & Proverbs 22

How is the story of Noah’s ark similar to the salvation of a believer?
What does verse 22 say about Christ’s authority? How does that impact you?
(Prov. 22) What is the purpose and goal of parenting as shown in this chapter?

WEEK FIFTEEN

Day 16

Read 1Peter 2:13-15 & Proverbs 15:17-33

What does it mean to submit? What is the difference (if any) between submitting and obeying?
For whose sake did you submit to human authority before you were saved? Christians are to submit to human authorities for the Lord’s sake. What does that mean?
(Proverbs 15) What does the heart of the righteous do with his or her answers? Can this quality be found in you?

Day 17

Read 1Peter 2:16-17 & Proverbs 16:1-17

What does it mean to live as free people but also to live as God’s slaves?
Which one of the four commands listed in verse 17 is God leading you to pursue more this week?
(Proverbs 16) What is said in this passage about God’s sovereignty?

Day 18

Read 1Peter 2:18-20 & Proverbs 16:18-33

How does verse 18 apply to us today in the modern world?
What does the phrase mean, “if for the sake of conscience toward God?”
(Proverbs 16) What does gossip do? What should we do whenever we find ourselves in the middle of a conversation laced with gossip?

Day 19

Read 1Peter 2:21-23 & Proverbs 17

In Verse 21, what does Peter say we are called to?
What did Jesus NOT do when He suffered? What did He do instead? Are you willing to follow this example?
(Proverbs 17) What does verse 1 tell us about the priorities of peace and comfort?

Day 20

Read 1Peter 2:24-25 & Proverbs 18

What reasons are given in verse 24 for Christ’s death on the cross?
How does this shape your desire to die to your sins this week?
(Prov. 18) What does this chapter have to say about how we use our words? What can we do to take control of our tongue?

WEEK FOURTEEN

Day 11

Read 1Peter 2:1-3 & Proverbs 12

What is the purpose of the word, “Therefore” at the beginning of this passage?
Do you desire the spiritual food of the Word to this degree? What are some things that keep us from desiring the Word as we should?
(Proverbs 12) What foolish fantasy that you waste time pursuing will you stop chasing this week?

Day 12

Read 1Peter 2:4-5 & Proverbs 13

What do you think it means to be a part of a holy priesthood?
What sacrifices can we offer that are pleasing to God?
(Proverbs 13) What does verse 1 say that a wise child does? How can you apply this to your life as a child of God?

Day 13

Read 1Peter 2:6-8 & Proverbs 14:1-18

What is a cornerstone? If we want to examine to see what is the foundation of our life, what could we look at?
What does it mean for someone to “stumble” over Jesus, the cornerstone?
(Proverbs 14:1-18) Where does the way that seems right lead to? How do we discern between the way that seems right and the way that is right?

Day 14

Read 1Peter 2:9-10 & Proverbs 14:19-35

What four titles (or descriptions) does Peter give to believers in verse 9? Do these descriptions apply to you today?
For what purpose does Peter say that you have been chosen? How can you fulfill this calling today?
(Proverbs 13:19-35) What does this section say about being gracious to those in need? Is there someone in need that God is leading you to be gracious to today?

Day 15

Read 1Peter 2:1-12 & Proverbs 15:1-16

Do you view our abstaining from fleshly lusts as a war being waged against your soul like Peter does?
Why does Peter say Christians should live honorable lives? Does this inspire you to change anything in your life today?
(Prov. 15:1-16) Do you live like verse 3 is reality? What response does this verse lead you to?

WEEK THIRTEEN

Day 6

Read 1Peter 1:13-14 & Proverbs 9

Have you ever thought of hope as a decision to be made? Does thinking of the coming of Christ bring you hope today?
What does it mean to keep sober in spirit? How can you rely on God’s help to keep sober in spirit today?
(Prov. 9) What is one choice you have to make between wisdom and folly this week?

Day 7

Read 1Peter 1:15-16 & Proverbs 10:1-16

What is our motivation supposed to be for being holy?
How would you define holiness? Can you achieve holiness on your own?
(Prov. 10:1-16) Many of these verses address our use of words. When is a time where someone’s words have had a deep impact on you?

Day 8

Read 1Peter 1:17-19 & Proverbs 10:17-32

What can we learn here about God’s judgment? How should we live as a result of this knowledge?
What does redeemed mean? With what were you redeemed?
(Prov. 10:17-32) What does it look like for you to be wise with your words today?

Day 9

Read 1Peter 1:20-21 & Proverbs 11:1-15

Why does Peter say that Christ was revealed? Do you think you are included in this?
How should Christ’s redemption of us affect our lives and behavior?
(Prov. 11:1-15) This chapter largely contrasts the righteous and the wicked. Which quality of the righteous do you feel God calling you to seek after by His grace today?

Day 10

Read 1Peter 1:22-25 & Proverbs 11:16-31

Why do these verses say that we should love one another deeply?
How are you described in verse 24? How is the word of God described? How does this change your perspective today?
(Prov. 11:16-31) What can we learn about how God views the righteous and the wicked from this passage?

WEEK TWELVE

Day 6

Read 1Peter 1:1-2 & Proverbs 6:1-19

What words does Peter use to describe the people he is writing to? Do these same words apply to you?
What part does each member of the Trinity play in salvation?
(Prov. 6:1-19) Much of this passage is describing a disciplined life. What do you think makes it hard to live a disciplined life-style in our society?

Day 7

Read 1Peter 1:3-5 & Proverbs 6:20-35

What are two things that make it possible to be born again to a living hope?
What are you placing your hope in right now? What do you think it means to have a living hope?
(Prov. 6:20-25) What does it look like for you to “bind continually on your heart” the commandment of your father and the teaching of your mother?

Day 8

Read 1Peter 1:6-7 & Proverbs 7

What trials are you going through right now? What do these verses say about trials?
What does Peter say is more precious than gold? Does this encourage or convict you today?
(Prov. 7) Do you trust the Scripture written on your heart right now to help you fight temptation as it comes?

Day 9

Read 1Peter 1:8-9 & Proverbs 8:1-21

How can we love God whom we do not see?
Do you have this kind of inexpressible joy? Why or why not? How can we get more of this kind of joy?
(Prov. 8:1-21) Does your life reflect the truth that wisdom is worth more than wealth?

Day 10

Read 1Peter 1:10-12 & Proverbs 8:22-36

What can we learn about the working of the Holy Spirit works from these verses?
For what purpose does verse 12 say the predictions of Christ’s sufferings were revealed to the prophets?
(Prov. 8:22-36) What do we learn about the relationship between God and wisdom from reading about the history of wisdom in verses 22-31?

WEEK ELEVEN

Day 1

Read Proverbs 1

How would you summarize the purpose of proverbs as described by Solomon in verses 2-6?
What does it look like for you to fear the Lord? (v. 7)
When was a time that you chased sin and ultimately dealt with the consequences of it like Solomon talks about in verses 8-19?

Day 2

Read Proverbs 2

What does this passage teach you about God? What does it teach you about humanity?
Proverbs 2 can be seen as an explanation of why wisdom matters. After reading through the chapter, how would you answer the question, “Why does wisdom matter?”

Day 3

Read Proverbs 3

On your first read through this chapter, which verse(s) stuck out most to you? Why?
How has your own understanding led you astray? (v.5)
What are some ways you need to submit your ways (large or small) to God today?How have you experienced grace? How have you extended grace to others?

Day 4

Read Proverbs 4

What does this chapter have to say about the benefits of wisdom?
What do you think it means in verse 23 when the author says you must “guard your heart”?
What keeps you from listening to and living out biblical wisdom?

Day 5

Read Proverbs 5

What temptations are you facing this week? How can you flee from them and not even “go near the door of her house,” as it relates to your own sin?
Evaluate your “teachers” and “instructors.” Are there people in your life that you are fully known by and confessing sin to who you can gain wise counsel from? Or are you living in isolation, making decisions on your own, and not known by trusted believers?
If you fully believed verse 21, that “your ways are in full view of the Lord,” how would that change the way that you live?

WEEK TEN

Day 46

Read Genesis 46

Seeing Joseph again was a dream Jacob had given up on, and yet God was faithful to give them this reunion (and 17 years together). How does this story encourage you and build your faith?

Day 47

Read Genesis 47

What do you learn about God in this passage?
How can you prevent yourself from being consumed with earthly, temporal things? How can you have a long-term, eternal mindset instead?

Day 48

Read Genesis 48

What do you learn about God in this chapter?
What is the story you will recount to your children and grandchildren? Will it be one of obedience and surrender to Christ? Why or why not?
How have you experienced grace? How have you extended grace to others?

Day 49

Read Genesis 49

This chapter is such a beautiful picture of how to use your words well. Jacob’s last gift to his children are these words that he chose to speak over them. They will no doubt remember it for the rest of their lives. What words do you think people will remember from you? Will they remember your sarcasm? Will they remember your gossip and cynicism? Or will they remember your encouragement? This chapter should be a reminder to us to leave a legacy of wise and thoughtful words. Our words are impacting those around us, whether we know it or not.

Day 50

Read Genesis 50

In your life, how has God redeemed the pain, sin, and brokenness you’ve experienced?
What is the main truth that God has revealed to you throughout the book of Genesis? How has this truth transformed your life?

WEEK NINE

Day 41

Read Genesis 41

Describe the character and person of Joseph that we see in today’s chapter.

What is a time in your life that you wanted to skip past because it was so painful? How did God work through that time to shape you into who you are today?

Day 42

Read Genesis 42

What do you notice about Joseph’s brothers’ emotions in this chapter?
Why do you think Joseph made the decisions that he did?
How have you been ruled by your emotions recently? How can God free you from that?

Day 43

Read Genesis 43

Think about all of the uncertainty Jacob was experiencing as his family kept going back and forth. How do you handle uncertainty? What’s your initial response?
What sticks out to you about Joseph’s response to his brothers in this chapter?
How have you experienced grace? How have you extended grace to others?

Day 44

Read Genesis 44

Judah makes known to Joseph what has been revealed in his heart. Are you making it a regular practice to confess to other believers sin that has been revealed in your own heart?
Is there anyone that you need to show grace or mercy to, as Joseph showed to his brothers?

Day 45

Read Genesis 45

How do you think Joseph’s life story deepened his relationship with God? What do you notice about what he says in this chapter?
How do you think you would have you felt if you were Joseph’s brother that day?

WEEK EIGHT

Day 36

Read Genesis 36

We don’t like thinking about our mortality. James 4 tells us that our lives are a mist, a vapor. Matthew 6 reminds us that what we do with our lives here matters for all eternity. Matthew 16 warns us that we can gain the whole world and lose our soul. This was Esau’s story. He had wives, money, possessions. He had everything he wanted except the one thing he needed. He had it all, but none of it saved him. But, don’t miss God’s faithfulness in the story of Esau. Remember in Genesis 25:23, the Lord said Esau would be a great nation. We read today about Esau being a great nation! It came to pass. God keeps His word. His promises never fail. If God kept His promise to a faithless, godless man, we can be sure He will keep all His promises to His people.
What do you learn about God and about man in Genesis 36?
What’s the story people will tell of your life?

Day 37

Read Genesis 37

What did you notice about Joseph in this passage?
Do you notice God present anywhere in this passage?
How can you keep yourself from holding little moments of envy in your heart? Is there anyone you need to intentionally forgive?

Day 38

Read Genesis 38

Are there particular sins that are harder for you to forgive others for? Why do you think that is?
Are you quick to forgive and extend mercy to others or is it challenging for you? Why is forgiveness so much harder to give than to receive?
How have you received grace? How has that changed your life?

Day 39

Read Genesis 39

What does this passage teach you about the character of God? • What stands out to you about how Joseph resists temptation?
What can you learn from Joseph in this passage?
When have you most recently felt like God was with you in the midst of a trial?

Day 40

Read Genesis 40

• Is there a Joseph in your life you need to call and thank for caring and ministering to you in a season of pain? What is your plan to thank them and remember them?

• What are you learning about the character of God through reading the book of Genesis?

WEEK SEVEN

Day 31

Read Genesis 31

What does God’s sovereignty mean to you? Is it comforting to you that you can’t mess up God’s plans?
Have you ever had an instance of sin in your life that you thought couldn’t be redeemed? How has God used it to bring about His purposes?
Jacob constantly doubts God’s ways and tries to make his own path. Yet, God never gives up on Him, and He brings good out of the bad choices Jacob has made. Who can you encourage with the story of Jacob today? How can his story comfort you today?

Day 32

Read Genesis 32

What do you learn about God in this chapter?
Jacob means “deceiver” and “cheater.” God changed his name to Israel, which means “he struggles with God” or “he is ruled by God” or “God Prevails.” Why do you think this name change is significant?
How have you wrestled with God? How has a face-to-face wrestling match with God Almighty changed you?

Day 33

Read Genesis 33

What stuck out to you about Esau in this chapter?
What characteristics does Esau share with God in this chapter?
Who do you need to forgive today? How can you intentionally show them your love?

Day 34

Read Genesis 34

What part of today’s reading disturbs you most? Why?
In this chapter, Jacob’s passivity is contrasted against the angry actions of his sons. Both sides were sinful. What would have been the biblical way to handle Dinah’s rape? How was she further hurt by the response of her family?
What is a sin you give into that you view as “lesser than” than ones that others struggle with? Confess it to God now and ask Him to see your sin the way He sees it so you can overcome it.

Day 35

Read Genesis 35

Why do you think God reaffirmed the promise to Jacob that He had already given to Isaac and Abraham?
Why do you think God chose to meet with Jacob at Bethel?
What are a few “God moments” that need to be memorialized and remembered in your life?

WEEK SIX

Day 26

Read Genesis 26

Why did Isaac lie to Abimelek?
How did God specifically bless Isaac? What evidence was there of God’s hand on him?
What can you take away from this passage? How can you live in a way that the people around you clearly see that the Lord is with you?

Day 27

Read Genesis 27

What surprised you most about this chapter?
This family is the family that God will bless the world through, but as you can see, they’ve got some serious issues. If God can use them, do you think He can use you?
How have you seen the lingering effects of sin in your life impact others?

Day 28

Read Genesis 28

Jacob didn’t get the blessing because he was worthy of it. Why did he get the blessing?
What does this chapter teach you about God?
What does this chapter teach you about yourself?

Day 29

Read Genesis 29

What do you value more than the presence of God in your life? What’s in your blank? What are you most tempted to believe, “If I just had ____________, I’d be content.”
While we see Leah learn her lesson today, in the next chapter it seems as though she forgets it, as she continues competing with her sister for Jacob’s attention. How often do you forget that God is enough? What helps remind you that He is truly all you need?

Day 30

Read Genesis 30

Is this how you think God desires families to function? How has sin affected this family?
Who do you seek approval from? Why do you think approval from God isn’t enough for you?

WEEK FIVE

Day 21

Read Genesis 21

What did you notice about Sarah in this chapter? Do you understand her emotion or were you surprised by her?
Do you think Abraham was wrong to let Hagar go? Did he let her leave out of faith or out of passivity?
When have you felt isolated? How has it brought you closer to God?

Day 22

Read Genesis 22

This chapter shows us just how much Abraham’s faith has grown. He is quick to do what God asks and trusts that God will provide. Evaluate your own faith. How has God been growing it this past year? Month? Week?
Abraham had to trust and obey God without seeing the full extent of His plan. Why do you think God typically only reveals His plan one step at a time? Do you obey and walk with God even when you can’t see where He’s leading you, or do you wait to obey until you see the fullness of His plan?

Day 23

Read Genesis 23

Even though he has faith in the world to come, Abraham still mourned the death of his wife. What does that show us about faith and feelings?
Death often reminds us that this world is not permanent and that we are not permanent in it. How does understanding your own mortality affect your understanding of this life?
How would you spend today differently if you truly believed this world was not your true home and final destination? What would you spend your time, money, energy, & thoughts on?

Day 24

Read Genesis 24

When was the last time you came face to face with answered prayer? When was the last time you asked God expectantly and specifically for something?
What do you learn from the example of Rebekah?
What do you learn from the example of Abraham’s servant?

Day 25

Read Genesis 25

What similarities did you notice between the stories of Abraham & Isaac?
Why do you think Esau was willing to sell his birthright? What problems can that attitude cause?
How have you “sold your birthright” for something temporary lately?

WEEK FOUR

Day 16

Read Genesis 16

What is one of the most comforting things that you learned about the nature of God from this chapter?
What does Abram and Sarai’s treatment of Hagar teach us about them? Were they perfect?
Psalm 8 says that God is mindful of us. How can you rest in knowing that you are not an afterthought to God, that He sees everything you are going through?

Day 17

Read Genesis 17

Why do you think God gave Abram and Sarai new names?
What keeps you from doing what God has asked you to do?

Day 18

Read Genesis 18

Sarah laughs when she hears that she will physically have a baby within the year. How has God been faithful to you even when you’ve had moments of faithlessness?
What’s a prayer you’ve prayed that hasn’t been answered the way you wanted it to? How did God change you or work in your life even though you didn’t get the answer you wanted?
How can you be an intercessor for someone today? What’s a big, bold, courageous prayer you could be praying for someone else right now?

Day 19

Read Genesis 19

How are you like Lot’s wife? How are you different from Lot’s wife?
Lot’s treatment of his daughters, behavior of his wife, and the fact that his future son – in – laws did not take him seriously, shows that he likely became like the depraved culture around him. Are you becoming like the culture around you in any ways?

Day 20

Read Genesis 20

Is there a familiar sin you keep running back to? Why? What is one thing you can do to “throw it off” today?
Contrast Abraham and Abimelech. What do you learn from each of them?
If you believed, truly believed, that God calls you righteous, holy, and blameless, how would that change the way you lived?

WEEK THREE

Day 11

Read Genesis 11

What was the problem with building the tower? Was building the tower wrong, or was their desire for building it wrong?
How has your pride ever gotten in the way of you doing what God instructed you to do? Have you ever been motivated to do something for prideful reasons? What should be our motivation for doing things?

Day 12

Read Genesis 12

What do you learn from the obedience of Abram (vs. 1-9)?
What does Abraham’s act of lying to Pharoah reveal about him?
Have you ever felt a similar leading as Abraham? Leaving somewhere? Starting something new? How did you handle that situation?

Day 13

Read Genesis 13

What do you notice about Abram in this passage?
Have you ever had an experience like Lot–you chose something that looked good, but ended up being very bad?
Do you struggle with giving your plans over to God? Why do you think you trust yourself more than Him?

Day 14

Read Genesis 14

How would you define the word, “Blessing”? What does it look like for you to be a blessing to those around you today?
Through Abram’s rescue of the people of Sodom, we see a foreshadowing of what God has done for us. How can you see yourself in the story today? Spend time thanking God that He didn’t leave you desperate and alone in your sin but pursued you and won you back.

Day 15

Read Genesis 15

What do you learn about God in verse 6? What’s the theological significance of this verse?
How does this verse connect to the Gospel? (hint: how does righteousness come?)

WEEK TWO

Day 6

Read Genesis 6

Building an ark before the world had ever seen rain before was a pretty wild ask. What’s the craziest thing you’ve felt led to do?
It says that Noah did everything God commanded him. Could the same be said about you? Is there an area of your life in which you are disobeying God?
How can you as a Christ follower stand out amongst the corruption and evil so pervasive in today’s society?

Day 7

Read Genesis 7

Have you experienced ridicule or opposition when you were trying to be faithful to something you felt led to do? What was that experience like?
Have you ever second – guessed yourself after feeling led to do something? How did God prove Himself faithful in those times?
What is it that you feel led to do that you’ve been hesitant to do? What does faithfulness look like for you in this situation?

Day 8

Read Genesis 8

Noah’s first act after leaving the ark was to build an altar and offer a sacrifice. Why do you think he did that?
Noah waited to hear instruction from the Lord before he exited the ark. Where do you need to listen more for God’s instruction before moving to action?
Knowing that the Hebrew idea for remembering always includes acting on behalf of the one brought to mind, how does it change your perspective?

Day 9

Read Genesis 9

What strikes you most about God’s covenant with Noah?
Even though God saved Noah and his family from the flood, we see them acting sinfully in this chapter. What does this teach us about sin?
How have you taken God’s forgiveness for granted in your life?

Day 10

Read Genesis 10

Today’s reading gives us the genealogy of Noah’s three sons, and there is a lot to learn from it. As we read yesterday, Ham dishonors his father. Because of that, Noah curses Ham’s descendants, especially his son, Canaan. In the genealogy today, if you look closely at the descendants of the three brothers, many of Israel’s future enemies come from the line of Ham. Places like Babylon and Assyria will become future conquerors of Israel and take the Israelites into captivity; the Egyptians will enslave the Israelites for 400 years; the Kasluhites, or Philistines, will become notorious enemies of Israel (Goliath, of David and Goliath, is a Philistine); Sodom and Gomorrah will soon be destroyed due to their sin; and the Canaanites are the future occupants of the Promised Land that the Israelites will have to battle many, many times. As you can see, not much good comes from the lineage of Ham.

His sin had huge consequences. The seeds of sin and destruction that he sowed are reaped for years to come. While his brother, Shem, gets to be a part of the lineage of Jesus, Ham is a part of the lineage of the enemies of God. As tough as that is to read, we need to be reminded of the consequences of sin and the future implications it has on us and the people around us.

WEEK ONE

Day 1

Read Genesis 1

What can we learn about God’s character based on this chapter?
What can we learn about ourselves based on this chapter?
After each thing that God created, He called them “good”. Consider what God’s definition of “good” is then answer this question: What are some good things in your life that God has created that you have taken for granted?

Day 2

Read Genesis 2

At the beginning of chapter 2, we see God resting, something we’ve coined a term for: sabbath. What does the practice of sabbath look like in your life?
God didn’t think it was good for man to be alone, so He created Eve. What does that teach you about the value God places on community? Do you take advantage of the gift off community in your life?
How does this chapter foreshadow the gospel? What do you learn about God’s character in this passage?

Day 3

Read Genesis 3

How does Satan go about tempting Eve? How have you seen Satan tempt you in similar ways? What is the modern-day version of you being like God?
What do you notice about Adam’s response in this passage? How do you think you would have responded?
What do you learn about the gospel in this passage? What hope do you feel as you read it?

Day 4

Read Genesis 4

Abel’s offering represented what was most costly, and he showed his love for God above all else by giving such a costly gift. When was the last time your offering to God cost you something (money, time, talent)?
In verse 7, God lovingly confronts Cain. What do you learn about the character of God in this exchange?
Why do you think Abel’s offering was accepted and Cain’s was rejected? When was the last time you were jealous that God seemingly blessed someone else when you thought He should bless you?

Day 5

Read Genesis 5

Would you want to live to be 962 years old like Jared?
Why do you think it’s important to know the history of God’s faithfulness to others?
What would walking faithfully look like for you today?