Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the Sermon, The Gospel Changes us (August 3rd):
Day 1: Loving Jesus Above All: Reading- John 21:15-19
Devotional: Jesus' question to Peter, "Do you love me?", echoes through the ages and reaches our hearts today. This simple yet profound inquiry cuts to the core of our faith. It's not about our knowledge, our service, or our abilities - it's about our love for Christ. Today, reflect on the state of your love for Jesus. Is it vibrant and growing, or has it become stagnant? Remember, Jesus doesn't ask for perfection, but for a heart that genuinely loves Him. How can you nurture and deepen your love for Christ today? Perhaps by spending extra time in prayer, meditating on His words, or expressing your love through worship. Let your actions flow from a heart overflowing with love for your Savior.
Day 2: Loving the Church: Reading- Ephesians 5:25-27
Devotional: The church, with all its imperfections, remains Christ's beloved bride. Just as Jesus loved the church enough to die for it, we are called to love and cherish it. This can be challenging when we encounter difficult people or situations within the church. However, our love for the church is a reflection of our love for Christ. Today, consider your attitude towards the church. Do you see it as a burden or a blessing? How can you contribute to refreshing and building up the body of Christ? Perhaps by offering a word of encouragement, serving in a ministry, or praying for your church leaders. Remember, by loving the church, you're participating in Christ's ongoing work of sanctification and redemption.
Day 3: Refreshing Others: Reading- Proverbs 11:25
Devotional: In a world often characterized by weariness and discouragement, we are called to be a refreshing presence. This goes beyond mere pleasantness - it's about actively seeking to uplift, encourage, and revitalize those around us. Reflect on your interactions with others. Do people leave your presence feeling drained or refreshed? How can you be more intentional about bringing refreshment to others? This might involve listening without judgment, offering words of hope, or performing acts of kindness. Remember, as you refresh others, you too will be refreshed. Ask God to fill you with His Spirit so that you can be a wellspring of refreshment to those in your life.
Day 4: The Transformative Power of the Gospel: Reading- 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Devotional: The story of Onesimus in Philemon illustrates the radical transformation that occurs when someone encounters Christ. The gospel doesn't just change our eternal destiny; it reshapes our relationships, our values, and our very identity. Today, reflect on how the gospel has transformed your life. Are there areas where you're still resisting its transformative power? Perhaps in a difficult relationship or a persistent habit? Ask God to continue His work of transformation in your life. Consider how you can be an agent of gospel transformation in your sphere of influence, showing others the radical love and forgiveness of Christ.
Day 5: Finding God's Presence in Suffering: Reading- Romans 8:35-39
Devotional: The apostle Paul wrote many of his letters, including Philemon, while in chains. Yet his words overflow with joy, love, and concern for others. This serves as a powerful reminder that our circumstances do not dictate our spiritual condition. God's love and presence remain constant, even in our deepest suffering. Today, reflect on the challenges you're facing. How can you, like Paul, allow God's love to shine through your difficulties? Remember that nothing can separate you from God's love. In your pain, draw near to Him, allowing His presence to comfort and strengthen you. Consider how your response to suffering might be a powerful testimony to others of God's sustaining grace.