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In Matthew 28:19-20, the Great Commission, Jesus Christ says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
Most theologians agree that Jesus’ first command is “repent”. Over the years I’ve noticed that while baptizing tends to be pretty common, disciplining and teaching the commands are not as much. The Greek word that is translated repentance is metanoia, “to change one’s mind or purpose.” The English word “repent” is an old nautical term for when a sailing ship is sailing against the wind. A sailboat cannot sail directly into the wind. It must take an angle against the wind for a time and then turn 180 degrees to the opposite angle against the wind. When the captain decides to turn the ship one hundred eighty degrees, he orders the crew to “repent!” This brings us to what the Bible says about repentance. “Repent” is what people do when they recognize they made a mistake and decide to go the opposite direction. Repentance is a process that involves the voluntary renewing of our minds, adjusting our moral and spiritual vision, and thinking toward that of the mind of GOD. It is GOD’s requirement for everyone on the face of the earth. I believe that repentance is a lifestyle, although not necessarily needed daily. When the Holy Spirit brings something to mind we need to deal with “it” obediently and not make excuses because we may still enjoy “it” or feel “it” is useful. Proverbs 28:13 reminds us that we will not prosper if we conceal transgressions but mercy is obtained by confessing and repenting. “The times of ignorance God overlooked, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent, because he has fixed a day on which he will judge the world in righteousness . . .” (Acts 17:30-31a). Pastor Bill
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We Are Family Romans 14:1-20 John 17:20-21 January 30, 2022 The One Thing: Issues in the church are not issues in the church unless we make them issues in the church.
Answers:
"Enough”
Luke 12:32 So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your father great happiness to give you the Kingdom. (NLT) What makes you afraid? I don’t mean things like arachnophobia or xanthophobia(fear of the color yellow, and yes it’s an actual thing). But what kinds of things cause you to stress and worry? We often have these feelings when life seems out of our control, and when life seems out of control it’s because we feel like we don’t have “enough”. Earlier in this chapter Jesus tells his followers the parable of the foolish rich man. This man had fertile land that produced a great amount of crops. But the man spent all of his time worrying about where he would keep his surplus. In verse 19 the man says to himself “And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!”’ The story ends with God saying to the man, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’ How much time do you spend worrying that you will have “enough” or that you will be “enough”? This rich man told himself once he had “enough” he would be able to enjoy life. But what even is “enough”? It’s easy to get caught in a trap where our idea of “enough” changes with our circumstances. Jesus is reminding us throughout Luke 12 that life is so much more than getting or being “enough”. This is also more than just stuff. We often try to act and do certain things so that other people will think that we are “enough”. Don’t get me wrong it’s not necessarily a bad thing to have stuff, or to do things with excellence. However, if God is not at the center of our lives it is all in vain. This is why Jesus calls us a little flock. He is reminding us that we are sheep in need of a shepherd. We have someone here to provide us with what we need. While we try to fill our lives up with “enough” God is happily offering us His Kingdom, which will always be more than enough. Are you willing to be humble today? To realize that you are sheep in need of a shepherd. Are you willing to let go of trying to fill your life up with “enough” and simply let God be enough for you? Pastor Blake The author of the book of Hebrews has this to say about gathering as Christians: Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Hebrews 10:23-24)
As we gather together as a body of believers, we tap into something so much deeper than a mere social club: we reaffirm our membership in the diverse Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). The enemy is very good at convincing us why we should skip church, or getting us to justify why we’re absent. There are some very legitimate reasons to not be able to attend in person (health concerns, travel safety, etc), but if the question comes to “should I go to church or not,” the answer should be “Let’s Go!” Pastor Jared Life is Hard, but God is good! A Pondering by Holly Woodbridge John 16:33“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Well, congratulations! You have made it through January in the year 2022. That is an accomplishment these days. More than likely you have disappointed someone already this year or someone has let you down. You may have already experienced loss or heartache. Jesus said, “In this world you WILL have trouble.” Life does not ever stay smooth for too long. People you trusted, betray you. People you love die. People you hope so much for, disappoint. BUT not Jesus! He never disappoints. He never abandons you or sticks it to you. He never uses His power to oppress you. He is with you. He loves you. You can trust Him. You can follow Him. You can lean on Him. So, when he speaks listen, because He is for you and He says, “Take heart, I have overcome the world.” Whatever might be sucking the life out of you right now is not bigger than your God. He always overcomes. So take Heart, He is good and He is with you in it all. Let His peace wash over you. This song has been a help to me as I work through the hard of life. Take a listen. A Gardener of Love
This is my prayer: that your love might become even more and more rich with knowledge and all kinds of insight. I pray this so that you will be able to decide what really matters and so you will be sincere and blameless on the day of Christ. I pray that you will then be filled with the fruit of righteousness, which comes from Jesus Christ, in order to give glory and praise to God. Philippians 1:9-11 For over three decades I have had the privilege of watching my Father-in-law Bampy Clifford as both a flower gardener and a farmer. Even at the ripe old age of ninety he is still trying to learn how to get better at his craft and adapt his strategies in the face of changing challenges. I have also gotten to watch him apply these same practices in ministering to the spiritual lives of those around him.. Any good gardener or farmer knows that the conditions in which you plant determine the quality of the harvest. Certain plants can’t survive certain weather, even as other plants won’t take root in certain types of soil. A good farmer needs more than just good intentions to receive a good harvest; they also need knowledge and wisdom. Interestingly, Paul seems to believe that these two gifts are also what our love needs if it is going to be effective. Rather than simply throwing around indiscriminate love with merely good intentions, Paul prays that our love will become abundant in knowledge and insight. Such a love is effective because it helps us to decide what really matters. Our most faithful expressions of love are those acts that are filled with wisdom and discernment. Love that considers the most helpful words to say to our friend who is hurting, love that leverages our own resources to benefit those in need around us, love that listens carefully to the voices of others to learn what our knowledge is lacking. Such a love not only fills our own lives but also overflows into a fruitfulness that feeds those around us. Let's pray that God would grant us the depth of insight that we need today and in the days ahead! God, I pray that you will make my love more insightful and wiser so that I might be able to decide what really matters. I want to not only love much, but love well. I pray that you would give me a discerning love that might grow into a multiplying love, overflowing to everyone around me. Amen. Pastor Donny ATTITUDINAL ADJUSTMENT FOR 2022
The believer is commanded in Scripture to have a different mind, to develop a biblical viewpoint, and possess a Christlike attitude in all things. Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. (Romans 12:16) William Law wrote: “Man needs to be saved from his own wisdom as much as from his own righteousness, for they produce one and the same corruption.” We must have the mind of Christ to think with the Word of God to live, as the scriptures say with every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God, so our thoughts and actions are in harmony with God’s. If we want to experience God and the joys of His plan for us then we must allow the Holy Spirit to adjust our attitude so we can truly know Him. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. (Romans 12:2) We must constantly renew our minds in the Word as a vital part of our attitudinal adjustment. Otherwise, our mind is like a vehicle driving down the road of life on a road full of potholes or as I like to call them VW traps, that catch us, knock us out of alignment with God, requiring a much-needed spiritual realignment of our attitude and to guide us around the potholes of life. Our attitudinal adjustment must be aligned with a sense of joy. Finally, brethren, whatever things are true, whatever things are noble, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report, if there is any virtue and if there is anything praiseworthy—meditate on these things. (Philippians 4:8) Our mind and attitudes must be kept free from bitterness, blame, self-pity, and pessimism, for us to really cast our cares on the Lord and trust in His sovereignty. Our adjustment requires an attitude of humility for sacrificial love which puts the needs of others above self. Humility is recognizing who we are by God’s grace and that He provides our ability to love and serve others. Religion and religious strivings are often corrupted and nullified by cravings and striving for power and security—the opposite of submission, humility, and trust. We cannot impart to others what we do not ourselves possess! Therefore devote yourself to one another placing the needs of others above ourselves. (Romans 12:10) Chuck Swindoll wrote in Strengthening Your Grip: The colorful, nineteenth-century showman and gifted violinist Nicolo Paganini was standing before a packed house, playing through a difficult piece of music. A full orchestra surrounded him with magnificent support. Suddenly one string on his violin snapped and hung gloriously down from his instrument. Beads of perspiration popped out on his forehead. He frowned but continued to play, improvising beautifully. To the conductor’s surprise, a second string broke. And shortly thereafter, a third. Now there were three limp strings dangling from Paganini’s violin as the master performer completed the difficult composition on the one remaining string. The audience jumped to its feet and in good Italian fashion, filled the hall with shouts and screams, “Bravo! Bravo!” As the applause died down, the violinist asked the people to sit back down. Even though they knew there was no way they could expect an encore, they quietly sank back into their seats. He held the violin high for everyone to see. He nodded at the conductor to begin the encore and then he turned back to the crowd, and with a twinkle in his eye, he smiled and shouted, ‘Paganini … and one string!’ After that he placed the single-stringed Stradivarius beneath his chin and played the final piece on one string as the audience (and the conductor) shook their heads in silent amazement. ‘Paganini … and one string’! Swindoll goes on to say: This may shock you, but I believe the single most significant decision I can make on a day-to-day basis is my choice of attitude. … Attitude is that ‘single string’ that keeps me going or cripples my progress. … When my attitudes are right, there’s no barrier too high, no valley too deep, no dream too extreme, no challenge too great for me. Yet, we must admit that we spend more of our time concentrating and fretting over the strings that snap, dangle, and pop—the things that can’t be changed—than we do giving attention to the one that remains, our choice of attitude. How transformed is your attitude? We are only required to be faithful in using what God has given us, in the context, in situation and ministry, as He places us. And without an attitudinal adjustment to be like Christ, that is impossible! May God Bless and Keep you all 2022 long, with an attitudinal adjustment from a heart focused on God and your trust in Him. Rev. Jerry Schmid |
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Day 20: SELF CONTROL
Self-control is the ability to restrain or limit oneself. It has to do with the ability to say “no” to our desires. So often, we have desires that are good; however, we long to fulfill those desires in the wrong way. That is a simple definition of sin— filling a legitimate need through an illegitimate means.
Since self-control is one of the fruits of the Spirit, it is something that God desires to produce in each of us. I believe that one of the proofs that God is working in our lives is the ability to control our thoughts, words, and actions. We need the Holy Spirit to show us the best way to meet our needs. Even if we know what is best, and even if we know what we need to do, without the Holy Spirit teaching us self-control, we can fall back into sin again and again. Without self-control, we will continually fall into the things that pull us further and further away from God.
The great thing is that self-control naturally leads to perseverance and the ability to abstain from instant gratification. Self-control is a gift that frees us. It might seem backwards to say that self-control is a gift that frees us. However, it frees us from a guilty conscience, and it keeps us from falling into our foolish desires. Self-control enables us to love and live as we were meant to.
Philippians 2:13
“For it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.”
Romans 6:6
“We know that our old self was crucified with him in order that the body of sin might be brought to nothing, so that we would no longer be enslaved to sin.”
Galatians 5:1
“For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.”
Romans 7:21–25
“So I find it to be a law that when I want to do right, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God, in my inner being, but I see in my members another law waging war against the law of my mind and making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind, but with my flesh I serve the law of sin.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to see where I need more self-control. In our world where desires take over, may the Holy Spirit produce self-control in me. Help me to say no to the things that do not matter most. Amen.
Day 19: SERVING
When I was in middle school, my church served a meal for people who came to a local, three-day festival. I loved it because I would serve people their food and would often get tips. I learned the better you served, the more money you got. It was great. But this type of serving was fueled by the wrong motive. I did it because I wanted more money.
When it comes to serving people the way God calls us to, it cannot be for money, for fame, or anything this world offers. Our motive should be a genuine heart for God and for people. We serve because of Jesus—who served God and people by laying down his life.
In 1 Peter 4, we are told that God gives us the ability and strength to serve. If our focus is on ourselves, our service is limited. But when we take the focus off ourselves and point it to God, people will take notice. When we serve others, those whom we serve could examine the life-changing nature of a relationship with Jesus Christ, and it validates our faith in front of others. In this way, God receives the glory.
1 Peter 4:10-11
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”
Romans 12:1-2
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please show me how you can use me to serve you and others. I offer my body, talents, mind, and life be used by you to Jesus to others. Amen.
When it comes to serving people the way God calls us to, it cannot be for money, for fame, or anything this world offers. Our motive should be a genuine heart for God and for people. We serve because of Jesus—who served God and people by laying down his life.
In 1 Peter 4, we are told that God gives us the ability and strength to serve. If our focus is on ourselves, our service is limited. But when we take the focus off ourselves and point it to God, people will take notice. When we serve others, those whom we serve could examine the life-changing nature of a relationship with Jesus Christ, and it validates our faith in front of others. In this way, God receives the glory.
1 Peter 4:10-11
“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.”
Romans 12:1-2
“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please show me how you can use me to serve you and others. I offer my body, talents, mind, and life be used by you to Jesus to others. Amen.
Day 18: SURRENDER
We live in a very fast paced world. Today it seems easier than before to get caught up in the daily grind and lose sight of seeking God’s Kingdom and His righteousness.
There is one thing we must do every day to seek God first in our lives: we must surrender. We need to surrender our lives to Him. We surrender our needs, worries, pains, joys, and praises. We also need to surrender the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual battles we face.
For Jesus followers, surrender begins with trust. (If you need a refresher, go back and read the day on trust again). We trust that God has our best interests at heart. Surrender takes the focus off you and puts it on Christ. Rick Warren writes, “Surrender is not the best way to live; it is the only way to live. Nothing else works. All other approaches lead to frustration, disappointment and self- destruction.” There is no better way to stay focused on God than to completely surrender our lives to Jesus.
Romans 12:1
“And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?”
Luke 9:23-24
“Then he said to the crowd, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life.’”
Romans 6:13
“Do not let any part of your body become a tool of wickedness, to be used for sinning. Instead, give yourselves completely to God since you have been given new life. And use your whole body as a tool to do what is right for the glory of God.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, may you be my only focus. In the midst of my needs, worries, and pains I turn to you. I surrender all the battles I face today to your power. I place the worries of today and tomorrow in your hands. Amen.
There is one thing we must do every day to seek God first in our lives: we must surrender. We need to surrender our lives to Him. We surrender our needs, worries, pains, joys, and praises. We also need to surrender the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual battles we face.
For Jesus followers, surrender begins with trust. (If you need a refresher, go back and read the day on trust again). We trust that God has our best interests at heart. Surrender takes the focus off you and puts it on Christ. Rick Warren writes, “Surrender is not the best way to live; it is the only way to live. Nothing else works. All other approaches lead to frustration, disappointment and self- destruction.” There is no better way to stay focused on God than to completely surrender our lives to Jesus.
Romans 12:1
“And so, dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind he will accept. When you think of what he has done for you, is this too much to ask?”
Luke 9:23-24
“Then he said to the crowd, ‘If any of you wants to be my follower, you must put aside your selfish ambition, shoulder your cross daily, and follow me. If you try to keep your life for yourself, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for me, you will find true life.’”
Romans 6:13
“Do not let any part of your body become a tool of wickedness, to be used for sinning. Instead, give yourselves completely to God since you have been given new life. And use your whole body as a tool to do what is right for the glory of God.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, may you be my only focus. In the midst of my needs, worries, and pains I turn to you. I surrender all the battles I face today to your power. I place the worries of today and tomorrow in your hands. Amen.
Day 17: EVANGELISM
Continuing the conversation from yesterday, when thinking of sharing the Good News with others we also want to:
BE AUTHENTIC— One of the most effective ways to minister to people around you is to be authentic. One of the top reasons why some are turned off to Christianity is because of a perception is that Christians are fake. Authenticity breaks that perception. When people see both your successes and failures, they will see how you respond in both situations. When people listen to the words you use when you’re excited and when you’re upset, do they paint a different picture? Be authentic in the way you talk and live, both privately and publicly, at church and at home or work.
Lastly, SPEAK IT— At some point, you will need to say something about Jesus. Eventually you need to share the Good News of what Jesus did for us on the cross and through the empty tomb. You have prayed for them, you are living out what you learn from reading the Bible, and you are being authentic. God will provide opportunities to speak to them about Jesus—it is up to you to take them. They might ask questions about your faith or life. It might be a comment that provides an opportunity for you to share hope. You must have the courage to speak for Jesus. The best part? Jesus promises to help in those moments.
1 John 1:5-7
“This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”
1 Corinthians 1:17
“For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with wisdom and eloquence, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.”
Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”
As you pray today, make a list of people that need to hear about Jesus.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to be approachable by others. Give me the courage to speak boldly about you when opportunities arise. Help me to share the Good News. Amen.
BE AUTHENTIC— One of the most effective ways to minister to people around you is to be authentic. One of the top reasons why some are turned off to Christianity is because of a perception is that Christians are fake. Authenticity breaks that perception. When people see both your successes and failures, they will see how you respond in both situations. When people listen to the words you use when you’re excited and when you’re upset, do they paint a different picture? Be authentic in the way you talk and live, both privately and publicly, at church and at home or work.
Lastly, SPEAK IT— At some point, you will need to say something about Jesus. Eventually you need to share the Good News of what Jesus did for us on the cross and through the empty tomb. You have prayed for them, you are living out what you learn from reading the Bible, and you are being authentic. God will provide opportunities to speak to them about Jesus—it is up to you to take them. They might ask questions about your faith or life. It might be a comment that provides an opportunity for you to share hope. You must have the courage to speak for Jesus. The best part? Jesus promises to help in those moments.
1 John 1:5-7
“This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”
1 Corinthians 1:17
“For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel—not with wisdom and eloquence, lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its power.”
Romans 1:16
“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: first to the Jew, then to the Gentile.”
As you pray today, make a list of people that need to hear about Jesus.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to be approachable by others. Give me the courage to speak boldly about you when opportunities arise. Help me to share the Good News. Amen.
Day 16: EVANGELISM
As followers of Christ, we are expected to share the Good News about Jesus’ life and resurrection. In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus says, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.” Now, this doesn’t mean as soon as you meet someone new you start to just blurt out facts about Jesus and ask if they are ready to be a Christian now.
As Christians, we are responsible to share Jesus with others. There are some great ways in which we can “explain Jesus” to others without causing them to run away. It is a way that will eventually end up with you explaining who Jesus is and the Good News that He brings.
First, PRAY FOR THEM— The most important thing we can do is pray for them. Pray that God would change their hearts and open their eyes (2 Corinthians 4:4) to the truth of the gospel. Pray that God would convince them of His love for them and their need for salvation through Jesus Christ (John 3:16). Pray for wisdom as to how you can minister to them (James 1:5). In addition to praying, we must also live godly Christian lives in front of them, so they can see the change God has made in our own lives (1 Peter 3:1-2).
Second, LIVE IT— If we are studying the Bible, we know that living a Christ-like life looks different from how the rest of the world lives. This only happens as we spend time in God’s Word. The next time you study the Bible, try to see how you can apply what you are reading to your life. Not only will your own life be changed because of studying Scripture, but when it comes time to share what you have learned with others, you’ll be able to share from your experience of living out the truth of Scripture. When your friends see how God's Word has shaped your life, they will be more inclined to listen because of the evidence of your own life. This is how you testify to the Gospel—you share how Jesus changed your life.
1 Peter 3:15-16
“But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; 16 yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.”
2 Timothy 2:15
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please give me a heart for those who do not know Jesus. Help me to live everyday what you are teaching me in your Word. Amen.
As Christians, we are responsible to share Jesus with others. There are some great ways in which we can “explain Jesus” to others without causing them to run away. It is a way that will eventually end up with you explaining who Jesus is and the Good News that He brings.
First, PRAY FOR THEM— The most important thing we can do is pray for them. Pray that God would change their hearts and open their eyes (2 Corinthians 4:4) to the truth of the gospel. Pray that God would convince them of His love for them and their need for salvation through Jesus Christ (John 3:16). Pray for wisdom as to how you can minister to them (James 1:5). In addition to praying, we must also live godly Christian lives in front of them, so they can see the change God has made in our own lives (1 Peter 3:1-2).
Second, LIVE IT— If we are studying the Bible, we know that living a Christ-like life looks different from how the rest of the world lives. This only happens as we spend time in God’s Word. The next time you study the Bible, try to see how you can apply what you are reading to your life. Not only will your own life be changed because of studying Scripture, but when it comes time to share what you have learned with others, you’ll be able to share from your experience of living out the truth of Scripture. When your friends see how God's Word has shaped your life, they will be more inclined to listen because of the evidence of your own life. This is how you testify to the Gospel—you share how Jesus changed your life.
1 Peter 3:15-16
“But in your hearts sanctify Christ as Lord. Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; 16 yet do it with gentleness and reverence. Keep your conscience clear, so that, when you are maligned, those who abuse you for your good conduct in Christ may be put to shame.”
2 Timothy 2:15
“Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please give me a heart for those who do not know Jesus. Help me to live everyday what you are teaching me in your Word. Amen.
Day 15: KINDNESS
Have you ever met someone who seems to be angry with everyone? It is sad to see so many mean people today. We come across mean people almost every day. When we think of kindness, we seem to think that kindness is something you are, or you are not—you are either a kind person or you are not. However, kindness is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) and is something produced in us by God.
The Greek word for kindness literally means “tender concern, and uprightness.” Kindness is an attribute of God that allowed us to be saved through Jesus Christ. God showed kindness by sending Jesus to die for us. It is God’s kindness that causes Him to care for us. God’s kindness to us is the reason we are to be kind to others.
God wants to produce kindness in us. As we allow the Spirit to work in us, we exhibit more and more kindness. Eventually everything we do—every action and every word that comes out of our mouths—will be seasoned with grace. Continue to let the Holy Spirit produce kindness in you.
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”
Luke 6:27-31
“Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please produce kindness in me today. Help me to be an example of Jesus by the kindness I show to those around me. Amen.
The Greek word for kindness literally means “tender concern, and uprightness.” Kindness is an attribute of God that allowed us to be saved through Jesus Christ. God showed kindness by sending Jesus to die for us. It is God’s kindness that causes Him to care for us. God’s kindness to us is the reason we are to be kind to others.
God wants to produce kindness in us. As we allow the Spirit to work in us, we exhibit more and more kindness. Eventually everything we do—every action and every word that comes out of our mouths—will be seasoned with grace. Continue to let the Holy Spirit produce kindness in you.
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.”
Ephesians 4:32
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.”
1 Peter 4:8
“Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.”
Luke 6:27-31
“Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. If someone strikes you on one cheek, turn to him the other also. If someone takes your cloak, do not stop him from taking your tunic. Give to everyone who asks you, and if anyone takes what belongs to you, do not demand it back. Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please produce kindness in me today. Help me to be an example of Jesus by the kindness I show to those around me. Amen.
Day 14: WORSHIP
When we think of worship, our minds usually go to music. Music is one form of worship, but worship is much more than singing to God. Worship is a lifestyle—a way to live that brings glory to God in everything we say and do. Worship demonstrates our respect and honor to God as our Father. In worship, we pay reverence and show a deep, sincere love to the One who made us.
When worship is a lifestyle, we are in a continuous connection with our Creator. While worship happens at church in worship services, worship can happen anywhere. A lifestyle of worship will include both private and corporate worship. The highest form of worship to God is our obedience to Him and His Word.
Philippians 2:9-11
“Therefore God has highly exalted him [Jesus] and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Revelation 4:11
“Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”
Romans 12:1-2
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, allow me to live a life full of worship. May everything I say and do bring glory and honor to you. Amen.
When worship is a lifestyle, we are in a continuous connection with our Creator. While worship happens at church in worship services, worship can happen anywhere. A lifestyle of worship will include both private and corporate worship. The highest form of worship to God is our obedience to Him and His Word.
Philippians 2:9-11
“Therefore God has highly exalted him [Jesus] and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”
Revelation 4:11
“Worthy are you, our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they existed and were created.”
Romans 12:1-2
“I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, allow me to live a life full of worship. May everything I say and do bring glory and honor to you. Amen.
Day 13: EMPATHY
Compassion and empathy are very closely related. Empathy is the ability to share in another’s emotions and feelings. When you are empathetic, you feel the same feelings of another, even if you have not gone through the same circumstance yourself. You feel their pain so much that it moves you to compassion.
Jesus demonstrated empathy throughout His ministry on earth. Jesus “went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the Kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:35-36). Jesus’ greatest empathy was for their spiritual weariness, a condition He came to cure.
When we “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15), we show empathy towards others like Jesus showed to us. Empathy tears down walls between people. Empathy shows the love of Christ to another in their time of need. As we do so, we can be moved to care for them, just as Christ cares for us.
Job 2:11,13
“Realizing that Job had been overcome by calamity and his grief was too great for words, his friends thoughtfully kept him company several days without engaging in conversation. Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him. So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spoke a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great.”
Philippians 2:2-4
“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
1 Corinthians 12:25-26
“So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please open my eyes to see when others are hurting. Help me to see their pain and respond with care. Allow me to be a demonstration of your love today. Amen.
Jesus demonstrated empathy throughout His ministry on earth. Jesus “went about all the cities and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the gospel of the Kingdom, and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them, because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd” (Matthew 9:35-36). Jesus’ greatest empathy was for their spiritual weariness, a condition He came to cure.
When we “rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15), we show empathy towards others like Jesus showed to us. Empathy tears down walls between people. Empathy shows the love of Christ to another in their time of need. As we do so, we can be moved to care for them, just as Christ cares for us.
Job 2:11,13
“Realizing that Job had been overcome by calamity and his grief was too great for words, his friends thoughtfully kept him company several days without engaging in conversation. Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him. So they sat down with him upon the ground seven days and seven nights, and none spoke a word unto him: for they saw that his grief was very great.”
Philippians 2:2-4
“Then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
1 Corinthians 12:25-26
“So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please open my eyes to see when others are hurting. Help me to see their pain and respond with care. Allow me to be a demonstration of your love today. Amen.
The Main Thing (part 2 of 3)
January 16, 2022
Matthew 6:33; Matthew 16:24-25 (NIV)
Main Point: Seeking God’s Kingdom and his righteousness begins by turning the keys over to God.
- We like __________________.
- We don’t like _____________ ___________________.
- We don’t like _____________ ______ __________________.
- In God’s Kingdom, I am not the ___________________.
- In God’s Kingdom, I am a ______________________.
- In God’s Kingdom, ___________________ comes whenever I _____________________.
- Three Options:
- ___________ in the driver’s seat. (__________________)
- _____________ the driver’s seat. (__________________)
- ______________ the driver’s seat. (_________________)
- ___________ in the driver’s seat. (__________________)
- We like CONTROL.
- We don’t like LOSING CONTROL.
- We don’t like GIVING UP CONTROL.
- In God’s Kingdom, I am not the KING.
- In God’s Kingdom, I am a FOLLOWER.
- In God’s Kingdom, FREEDOM comes whenever I SURRENDER.
- Three Options:
- STAY in the driver’s seat. (REBELLION)
- SHARE the driver’s seat. (DIVIDED)
- SURRENDER the driver’s seat. (SURRENDER)
- STAY in the driver’s seat. (REBELLION)
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Day 12: COMPASSION
When we talk about compassion, we must begin with Jesus. We begin there because compassion is at the very core of Jesus. The Hebrew and the Greek words translated into English literally mean “to have mercy, to feel sympathy, and to have pity.” We know that God is “a compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness” (Psalms 86:15).
Jesus demonstrated God’s compassion while he was on the earth. When his friends were weeping about Lazarus’ death, he wept alongside them. Jesus was moved with compassion for the suffering of others, so He healed the large crowd that came to Him. On multiple occasions, Jesus had compassion on individuals who came to Him. When He saw how the crowd was like sheep without a shepherd, He had compassion on them and taught them. While the priest and the Pharisees neglected groups of people, Jesus had compassion on them and spent time with them.
Jesus was all about caring for people. In Matthew 22:34-40, Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment. He said it is to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength but He added that the second commandment is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” A Pharisee asked Jesus which command was the greatest, but Jesus provided two, stating not only what we are to do, but also how to do it. Loving your neighbor as yourself is the natural result of your loving devotion toward God.
Romans 12:15
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”
Proverbs 19:17
“He who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, And He will repay him for his good deed.”
1 Corinthians 12:25-26
“That there should be no division in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.”
Psalm 111:4
“He has made His wonders to be remembered; The LORD is gracious and compassionate.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, show me where I need more compassion. Let me see those who need a caring touch or a kind word. Help me to see others as you see. Amen.
Jesus demonstrated God’s compassion while he was on the earth. When his friends were weeping about Lazarus’ death, he wept alongside them. Jesus was moved with compassion for the suffering of others, so He healed the large crowd that came to Him. On multiple occasions, Jesus had compassion on individuals who came to Him. When He saw how the crowd was like sheep without a shepherd, He had compassion on them and taught them. While the priest and the Pharisees neglected groups of people, Jesus had compassion on them and spent time with them.
Jesus was all about caring for people. In Matthew 22:34-40, Jesus was asked about the greatest commandment. He said it is to love God with all our heart, mind, and strength but He added that the second commandment is like it: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” A Pharisee asked Jesus which command was the greatest, but Jesus provided two, stating not only what we are to do, but also how to do it. Loving your neighbor as yourself is the natural result of your loving devotion toward God.
Romans 12:15
“Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep.”
Proverbs 19:17
“He who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, And He will repay him for his good deed.”
1 Corinthians 12:25-26
“That there should be no division in the body, but that the members should have the same care for one another. And if one member suffers, all the members suffer with it; if one member is honored, all the members rejoice with it.”
Psalm 111:4
“He has made His wonders to be remembered; The LORD is gracious and compassionate.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, show me where I need more compassion. Let me see those who need a caring touch or a kind word. Help me to see others as you see. Amen.
Day 11: OVERCOMING FEAR
There are two types of fear. One is good and is encouraged; the other is a fear that must be overcome. The first one is the fear of the Lord. This doesn’t mean we are afraid of God; rather it is an awe or respect of God realizing all His power and glory. It is having respect for His power and authority. This type of fear is total acknowledgment of all that God is, which comes through knowing and studying God and His attributes.
This is not the fear I want to talk about. The other type of fear is “the spirit of fear.” This type of fear is mentioned in 2 Timothy 1:7 which says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” It is a spirit of fearfulness and timidity that does not come from God.
I’m not going to lie; there are times when I’m afraid. I don’t care how old you are, when you are by yourself and you hear weird noises at home you freak out a little bit. There are things in our lives that scare us, whether it’s a conversation we must have, something we need to overcome, or a sin we need to deal with and confess, the “spirit of fear” takes over. That is when we need to trust God completely. I believe God intentionally put encouraging verses about overcoming fear throughout the entire Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God tells us to “fear not.”
God tells us not to be afraid of being too weak. God tells us not to be afraid of being alone. God tells us not to be afraid of not being heard by Him. God tells us not to be afraid of lacking physical necessities. Trusting in God is refusal to give into fear. Trusting God begins by turning to Him in the darkest of times and believing He will make things right.
1 John 4:18
“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Psalm 56:11
“In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?”
Romans 8:31-32
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all— how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please remove the spirit of fear inside me that often keeps me from trusting you. I declare my trust in you. Be near to me as I face my fears today. Amen.
This is not the fear I want to talk about. The other type of fear is “the spirit of fear.” This type of fear is mentioned in 2 Timothy 1:7 which says, “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” It is a spirit of fearfulness and timidity that does not come from God.
I’m not going to lie; there are times when I’m afraid. I don’t care how old you are, when you are by yourself and you hear weird noises at home you freak out a little bit. There are things in our lives that scare us, whether it’s a conversation we must have, something we need to overcome, or a sin we need to deal with and confess, the “spirit of fear” takes over. That is when we need to trust God completely. I believe God intentionally put encouraging verses about overcoming fear throughout the entire Bible. From Genesis to Revelation, God tells us to “fear not.”
God tells us not to be afraid of being too weak. God tells us not to be afraid of being alone. God tells us not to be afraid of not being heard by Him. God tells us not to be afraid of lacking physical necessities. Trusting in God is refusal to give into fear. Trusting God begins by turning to Him in the darkest of times and believing He will make things right.
1 John 4:18
“There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear. For fear has to do with punishment, and whoever fears has not been perfected in love.”
Isaiah 41:10
“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
Psalm 56:11
“In God I trust; I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?”
Romans 8:31-32
“What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all— how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please remove the spirit of fear inside me that often keeps me from trusting you. I declare my trust in you. Be near to me as I face my fears today. Amen.
Day 10: Change
Change is difficult. Some of the most stressful seasons of our lives involve significant change. Even when change is wanted, there is something within us that naturally resists it. When we do something over and over, it becomes part of our daily habits and we become so used to it that if anything knocks our rhythm off, we freak out a little. This is why change takes so much effort and why we resist it.
However, change is going to happen—it’s normal and it’s inevitable. We face changes every year. Our bodies change as we age. Our likes and dislikes change. The way we interact with the world around us changes. Technology changes every day.
When you become a Christian, change is necessary. The greatest change is a “death” to our old selves and a re-birth in Christ—who makes us new. To become more like Jesus, we need to change. 2 Corinthians 4:16 says, “Inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” When we submit to God, we change to become more like Christ.
Even though change is necessary, we don’t want change that brings pain or hurt. Romans 8:28 says that God is working all things for the good of those who love Him, that He is working everything according to His purpose, and that we know His purpose is always good. So, we must trust that even the changes that are undesirable are working for our benefit. It may be that an illness will bring us closer to God or will draw a family closer together. The change you are experiencing right now may be the result of God working something new in your life.
Adjusting to change seems to be less painful than resisting it. Think of it this way: spiritual growth requires change. When we are experiencing change in our lives, what if we looked at it as a season for growth? When we start resisting, let’s try to remember that God has NEVER changed, and will NEVER change, and that He is up to something good.
Try to do some of these things to help with change:
Remember, God does not change, and He is there in the middle of the change with you.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I bring before you the changes that are happening in my life right now. Please help me through the tough changes. Thank you for never changing. Help me to be more like Christ. Amen.
However, change is going to happen—it’s normal and it’s inevitable. We face changes every year. Our bodies change as we age. Our likes and dislikes change. The way we interact with the world around us changes. Technology changes every day.
When you become a Christian, change is necessary. The greatest change is a “death” to our old selves and a re-birth in Christ—who makes us new. To become more like Jesus, we need to change. 2 Corinthians 4:16 says, “Inwardly we are being renewed day by day.” When we submit to God, we change to become more like Christ.
Even though change is necessary, we don’t want change that brings pain or hurt. Romans 8:28 says that God is working all things for the good of those who love Him, that He is working everything according to His purpose, and that we know His purpose is always good. So, we must trust that even the changes that are undesirable are working for our benefit. It may be that an illness will bring us closer to God or will draw a family closer together. The change you are experiencing right now may be the result of God working something new in your life.
Adjusting to change seems to be less painful than resisting it. Think of it this way: spiritual growth requires change. When we are experiencing change in our lives, what if we looked at it as a season for growth? When we start resisting, let’s try to remember that God has NEVER changed, and will NEVER change, and that He is up to something good.
Try to do some of these things to help with change:
- Talk to God about the change you are experiencing. Be honest about your feelings regarding the change.
- Listen to His response to your questions.
- Express thankfulness for all the blessings you have.
Remember, God does not change, and He is there in the middle of the change with you.
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I bring before you the changes that are happening in my life right now. Please help me through the tough changes. Thank you for never changing. Help me to be more like Christ. Amen.
Day 9: Living Sacrifice
In Romans 12:1, Paul says, “I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship.” The dictionary defines sacrifice as “anything consecrated and offered to God.”
So what does this look like? Romans 12:2 says, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.” We are a living sacrifice by not conforming to the world. But how do we not conform to the world? We do this by “renewing our minds.” In other words, we fill our minds with the truths of God’s Word. If we continually follow the patterns of the world, we will struggle with the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life (see 1 John 2:15-16). God, through the power of His Word, is the only power that can completely transform us from worldliness to true spirituality. The result is that we will be able to “discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect” (Romans 12:2b). It is the will of God for every believer to be a living sacrifice for Jesus Christ.
Revelation 1:3
“Blessed is the one who reads aloud the words of this prophecy, and blessed are those who hear, and who keep what is written in it, for the time is near.”
Psalm 119:9–11
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”
Psalm 1:2–3
“But his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers.”
Think about:
- Am I conforming to the world or being transformed by the renewing of my mind?
- How so? In what areas of your life do you fall into the lusts of the flesh, the eyes, or pride of life?
- How often are you reading God’s Word? Is it as much as you should be?
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, please reveal any area of my life that needs to be transformed. Help me to meditate on your Word so that my mind may be renewed. Speak to me in fresh and new ways. Today I offer my life as a living sacrifice to you. Amen.
Day 8: Sharing Your Faith
Probably one of the most important things we can do as Christians—but also one of the scariest things—is share our faith with others—especially friends and family. You pray for them, and you demonstrate a Christian walk in your own life. As you do this, God will bring you opportunities to speak to them about Jesus. It is up to you to take them. If you ask God to make you bolder, does He automatically make you bold? Or does He give you opportunities to be bolder? When you ask God to give you more patience, does He automatically give you patience? Or does He give you opportunities to be more patient? God will present opportunities for you to speak to those around you about your faith.
Mark 16:15
“And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.’”
Ephesians 5:1-6:24
“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for fragrant offering, a sacrifice to us and to god. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I lift up these who are on my heart today: (list names here). Help me to live out the life you have called me to by showing your love, mercy, and grace. Help me to live authentically and in such a way that people will see you through my actions and words. Help me to see opportunities to share you with those around me. Amen.
Mark 16:15
“And he said to them, ‘Go into all the world and proclaim the gospel to the whole creation.’”
Ephesians 5:1-6:24
“Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for fragrant offering, a sacrifice to us and to god. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving. For you may be sure of this, that everyone who is sexually immoral or impure, or who is covetous (that is, an idolater), has no inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and God.”
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, I lift up these who are on my heart today: (list names here). Help me to live out the life you have called me to by showing your love, mercy, and grace. Help me to live authentically and in such a way that people will see you through my actions and words. Help me to see opportunities to share you with those around me. Amen.
Day 7: Family & Friends
When it comes to my friends and family, there is no one else I would rather spend my time with. Of course, we know that no family or friend group is perfect—they all have their shortcomings and annoyances. But for the most part they are people you love and respect. Also, if you are anything like me, you have friends and family that do not know how much God loves them, and they do not know Jesus the way you do.
One of the greatest things you can do for your friends and family is pray for them. Here are 4 ways in which we can pray for our family and friends:
It is important to know that God loves your family more than you do. He is a good God. We need to remember to pray these things in faith. Faith energizes us; it allows us to be close to God continuously. We have to remember to be patient and allow God to work. Change could happen tomorrow or it could take twenty years but we need to allow God to work.
Take time to go over the 4 ways to pray for friends and family. Remember to pray with a humble heart. Pray that God would move today in the lives of your friends and family.
One of the greatest things you can do for your friends and family is pray for them. Here are 4 ways in which we can pray for our family and friends:
- Pray for an opportunity to talk about Jesus (Colossians 4:3). Ask God to give you an opportunity to tell others about Christ and to invite them to church.
- Pray for God to prepare hearts. Anytime you see someone going through a storm in life, you can know God is softening a heart. God never wastes a storm.
- Pray that God would burden your heart. Ask God to make your heart tender towards a specific person.
- Pray that God’s Word will take root. Pray that God’s truth will begin to grow in people’s lives and hearts.
It is important to know that God loves your family more than you do. He is a good God. We need to remember to pray these things in faith. Faith energizes us; it allows us to be close to God continuously. We have to remember to be patient and allow God to work. Change could happen tomorrow or it could take twenty years but we need to allow God to work.
Take time to go over the 4 ways to pray for friends and family. Remember to pray with a humble heart. Pray that God would move today in the lives of your friends and family.
Day 6: Trust
When someone says, “Trust me,” it makes you wonder about the character of the person. It goes without saying that we cannot trust someone that we do not know. Trust is easier when we have a history with the other person. There is a secret to trusting God—we must get to know Him more and more. When someone says, “Trust me,” we have one of two natural reactions. We either say, “Ok, I’ll trust you,” or we question, “Why should I?” When talking about God, trusting Him naturally follows when we understand why we should trust Him.
Unlike humans, God never lies and never fails to come through on His promises. Unlike humans, God’s plans are perfect, holy, and righteous. If we are constantly seeking Him in prayer and reading Scripture, we will see that He is worthy of our trust and our trust is best held in Him. The more we look back on our lives, the more we will see how faithful He has been, and how he has proven Himself to be trustworthy. Our trust in Him will grow daily.
Isaiah 14:24
“The Lord of hosts has sworn: ‘As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have purposed, so shall it stand,’”
Romans 8:28
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Ephesians 2:8-10
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Psalm 100:5
“For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness is to all generations.”
Ask yourself:
- Am I really trusting God with my life?
- What is holding me back from allowing me to place 100% of my trust in Him?
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to trust you and to know that your plans are better than my own. Please give me the determination to know you more so I can trust you more. If there is anything holding me back from trusting you, reveal it to me today. Amen.
Unlike humans, God never lies and never fails to come through on His promises. Unlike humans, God’s plans are perfect, holy, and righteous. If we are constantly seeking Him in prayer and reading Scripture, we will see that He is worthy of our trust and our trust is best held in Him. The more we look back on our lives, the more we will see how faithful He has been, and how he has proven Himself to be trustworthy. Our trust in Him will grow daily.
Isaiah 14:24
“The Lord of hosts has sworn: ‘As I have planned, so shall it be, and as I have purposed, so shall it stand,’”
Romans 8:28
“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”
Ephesians 2:8-10
“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Psalm 100:5
“For the Lord is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness is to all generations.”
Ask yourself:
- Am I really trusting God with my life?
- What is holding me back from allowing me to place 100% of my trust in Him?
Prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father, help me to trust you and to know that your plans are better than my own. Please give me the determination to know you more so I can trust you more. If there is anything holding me back from trusting you, reveal it to me today. Amen.
Author
Notes from the Staff @The Woods
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