My primary reason for writing a daily devotional was for my own family devotion. I searched long and hard for a simple study that systematically worked through books of the Bible and provided a more in-depth understanding of each passage in its intended context and for its primary audience. Every devotional I found was either too academic to discuss in a family setting or so focused on "life application" that it did damage to the meaning of the original text. I post daily to my devotional site, LaBelleLife.com, and you can always access the daily entries for free. I decided to compile them into a book for those who want to take their study "offline." In particular, it helps some of my friends involved in prison ministries to have access to the study since they don't get internet access. The account of Genesis was written by Moses to a nation of Israelites who had come out of 400 years of slavery in Egypt. It gave them a sense of history and tradition and was necessary for them to understand the nature of the true God after being immersed in a culture that worshiped many gods for so many generations. I do my best to filter everything through that perspective.

You also may notice that I include references to ancient Jewish interlinear commentaries called targums. Even though I don't consider targums to be authoritative, they do give us some insight into how the first century rabbis traditionally understood this text. As a Christian, I also point out the rich types and shadows of Christ throughout the text. Even though there is a lot that can be said about many passages, I try to keep each day manageable so the head of the household or group can lead a day's study in about 10 minutes or less (Don't get freaked out by Day 1. It's probably the longest). I recommend reading the passage out loud, then asking the day's question to give people a chance to think about it and fire up those neurons. Then read through the study. I end each study with a simple prayer based on the day's subject. You can add to it with your own prayers or use it as a way to open or close your time of prayer.