Devotion: See Life
Day 1: The Resurrection and the Life
Reading: John 11:17-27
Devotional: Jesus' powerful declaration, "I am the resurrection and the life," reminds us that He is not just a savior, but THE Savior. Martha's interaction with Jesus shows us how easy it is to limit our understanding of God's power. Like Martha, we often believe in future promises but struggle to see God's immediate presence and ability. Today, reflect on areas in your life where you may be putting limits on God's power. How can you open your heart to believe in His ability to bring life and hope into your current circumstances, no matter how dire they seem?
Day 2: Seeing Life in Others
Reading: Romans 14:1-12
Devotional: Paul's teaching on not judging others challenges us to see the potential for life in every person we encounter. Instead of focusing on others' shortcomings or differences, we're called to look at them through God's eyes of love and possibility. Today, practice intentionally seeing the "life" in those around you, especially those you might typically judge or overlook. How can you encourage growth and maturity in others without condemnation?
Day 3: Living in God's Kingdom
Reading: Romans 14:13-19
Devotional: The kingdom of God is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. This divine perspective shifts our focus from temporary concerns to eternal values. Consider how your daily choices and interactions reflect kingdom living. Are you prioritizing peace and mutual edification in your relationships? Reflect on one way you can align your actions more closely with God's kingdom values today.
Day 4: Faith in the Midst of Trials
Reading: Daniel 3:16-18
Devotional: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego's unwavering faith in the face of certain death exemplifies trust in God's sovereignty, regardless of outcomes. Their "even if" faith challenges us to examine our own trust in God during difficult times. Reflect on a current challenge in your life. Can you honestly say, like these men, that you will trust God even if He doesn't deliver you in the way you hope? How can you cultivate this level of faith in your daily walk?
Day 5: From Death to Life
Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Devotional: Paul's description of our transformation from spiritual death to life in Christ encapsulates the heart of the gospel message. This passage reminds us that our new life is entirely a gift of God's grace, not something we can earn. Today, take time to reflect on your own journey from death to life. How has God's grace changed you? In what ways are you still growing into the "good works" God has prepared for you? Let this reflection fuel your gratitude and commitment to living out your new life in Christ.
Questions to think about...
How can we shift our focus from seeing only the problems and darkness in the world to recognizing the life and hope that God offers, even in difficult circumstances?
In what ways might our judgments of others' spiritual maturity hinder our ability to see the potential for life and growth in them?
What does it mean to truly believe that Jesus is 'the resurrection and the life,' and how might this belief transform our daily lives?
How can we balance our personal freedoms with the responsibility to not cause others to stumble in their faith journey?
In what ways can we actively participate in God's work of 'saving lives' and helping others see the life God offers?
How does the resurrection of Jesus challenge our understanding of life, death, and what truly matters in both this world and eternity?
What are some practical ways we can 'see life' in others, even those who may be our enemies or those we disagree with?
How might our perspective on suffering and hardship change if we truly embrace the idea that Christ is 'the master of both the dead and the living'?
In what areas of your life do you need to 'come out' of the tomb and let Jesus remove your 'grave clothes,' allowing you to fully embrace the life He offers?
In what ways might our judgments of others' spiritual maturity hinder our ability to see the potential for life and growth in them?
What does it mean to truly believe that Jesus is 'the resurrection and the life,' and how might this belief transform our daily lives?
How can we balance our personal freedoms with the responsibility to not cause others to stumble in their faith journey?
In what ways can we actively participate in God's work of 'saving lives' and helping others see the life God offers?
How does the resurrection of Jesus challenge our understanding of life, death, and what truly matters in both this world and eternity?
What are some practical ways we can 'see life' in others, even those who may be our enemies or those we disagree with?
How might our perspective on suffering and hardship change if we truly embrace the idea that Christ is 'the master of both the dead and the living'?
In what areas of your life do you need to 'come out' of the tomb and let Jesus remove your 'grave clothes,' allowing you to fully embrace the life He offers?