5-Day Devotional (6/29/2025-7/5/2025)

Day 1: God's Seeking Heart
Reading: Luke 15:1-10
Devotional: Today's passage reminds us that God is actively seeking the lost. Just as the shepherd searches for the one lost sheep and the woman diligently looks for her lost coin, our Heavenly Father continually seeks those who are far from Him. This reflects the sermon's emphasis that "God sends out because He seeks to save." Take a moment to reflect on how God sought you in your own life. How has He drawn you closer to Himself? Consider those in your life who may be far from God. Pray for them, asking God to reveal His seeking love to them. How might God use you as an instrument of His seeking love today?

Day 2: The Power of Diversity in the Church
Reading: Galatians 3:26-29
Devotional: The early church in Antioch, as described in the sermon, was remarkably diverse. Today's reading reinforces that in Christ, our differences fade in light of our unity in Him. This diversity is not just tolerated but celebrated as a testimony to the power of the gospel. Reflect on the diversity within your own church community. How does this diversity reflect God's kingdom? Are there ways you can better embrace and celebrate the differences among believers? Pray for unity in diversity within your church and for opportunities to reach across cultural or social boundaries with Christ's love.

Day 3: Answering God's Call
Reading: Isaiah 6:1-8
Devotional: The sermon highlighted how the Spirit calls and the church affirms. In today's passage, we see Isaiah's powerful encounter with God, leading to his willingness to be sent. Consider how God might be calling you to serve Him. Are you listening for His voice? Remember, as the sermon pointed out, often our calling aligns with what we're already doing for God. Pray for clarity in discerning God's call on your life and for the courage to respond like Isaiah, saying, "Here am I. Send me!" Also, seek godly counsel and affirmation from your church community as you explore God's calling.

Day 4: Perseverance in the Face of Obstacles
Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:7-18
Devotional: The sermon reminded us that "the gospel goes forth regardless of obstacles." Paul's words in today's reading echo this truth, encouraging us to persevere through hardships. Reflect on the challenges you face in living out and sharing your faith. How can you view these not as setbacks but as opportunities for God's power to be displayed? Remember, our momentary troubles are achieving an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. Pray for strength and perspective to endure difficulties, knowing that God is working through them for His glory and your good.

Day 5: The Joy of Adventure with Christ
Reading: Philippians 3:7-14
Devotional: The sermon concluded with a powerful quote about the cost and joy of following Christ. Today's passage shows Paul's perspective on counting everything as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. While following Jesus may involve suffering, it also brings unparalleled joy and purpose. Reflect on your own journey with Christ. What have you had to "lose" for His sake? How has the joy of knowing Him surpassed those losses? Pray for a renewed sense of adventure in your walk with God, pressing on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called you heavenward in Christ Jesus.