shaping

Then I will purify them and put them to the test, just as gold and silver are purified and tested. ~ Zechariah 13:9a (CEV)

But that’s not all! We gladly suffer, because we know that suffering helps us to endure. And endurance builds character, which gives us a hope. ~ Romans 5:3b-4 (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

Difficulties can be a part of the process of shaping our character.

PRAYER:

Lord, I really struggle with the idea that hard times are good for me. I'm tempted to shut down when there is trouble. Help me to embrace the challenges and receive them as tools for shaping my character. I'm looking forward to becoming more godly. Amen.

Greatness

Power and might are in your hand, and at your discretion, people are made great and given strength. ~ 1 Chronicles 29:12b (NLT)

Jesus' disciples were arguing about which one of them was the greatest. Jesus knew what they were thinking, and he had a child stand there beside him. ~ Luke 9:46-47 (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

God chooses who will become great. He works with humble people.

PRAYER:

Generous God, I'm amazed by the people whom you choose to do great things. I think that I am too ambitious to become great. Fill my heart with humility so that you can use me in great ways. I'm not so interested in great recognition but I'd be honored to be a part of Jesus' kigdom. Amen.

God is faithful

God’s Decree. “I, yes I, am your true husband. I’ll pick you out... and bring you to Zion. ~ Jeremiah 3:14 (MSG)

However, those the Father has given me will come to me, and I will never reject them. ~ John 6:37b (NLT)

KEY IDEA:

God is faithful beyond what you might expect.

PRAYER:

Kind God, you never reject the people who sincerely turn to you. You even go out of your way to seek people out. Thank you. I'm too comfortable with my life as it is. However, the idea of going on a journey with you feels disruptive. But you know that if I'm going to truly enjoy your faithfulness I need some disruption. Move forward with your plan for my life. Amen.

Sent on a mission

You will be my holy nation and serve me as priests. ~ Exodus 19:6a (CEV)

After Jesus had greeted them again, he said, “I am sending you, just as the Father has sent me.” ~ John 20:21 (CEV)

KEY IDEA:

Jesus sends all his people out to serve him.

PRAYER:

Thank you, Lord, for calling me to join your service. Your calling gives my life a purpose. I worry, though, that I will fail in my mission. There is no good reason to worry but it feels like a lot of responsibility to represent you. Please fill me with confidence. Even if I do fail some you still love me and want to include me. Amen.