Multiplication

I will multiply my people, not diminish them; I will honor them, not despise them. ~ Jeremiah 30:19 (NLT)

Jesus also used this illustration: “The Kingdom of Heaven is like the yeast a woman used in making bread. Even though she put only a little yeast in three measures of flour, it permeated every part of the dough.” ~ Matthew 13:33 (NLT)

KEY IDEA:

God's people may not look like much but he multiplies them and their work like crazy.

PRAYER:

God, you definitely seem to be in the business of making a lot out of a little. Fishermen lead your kingdom movement forward. And your kingdom lacks the powerful backing of the most important people in society. Sometimes I feel like we're going nowhere and accomplishing nothing of significance. Forgive my doubt and wallowing. Help me to grasp the bigger picture of who you are, what you're doing, and how you operate. I'm not much to look at but I am trusting that you'll use me in a significant way -- as defined by YOU. Amen.

God is faithful

And I’ll keep on carrying you when you’re old. I’ll be there, bearing you when you’re old and gray. I’ve done it and will keep on doing it, carrying you on my back, saving you. ~ Isaiah 46:4 (MSG)

God is faithful, and you were called by him to partnership with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord. ~ 1 Corinthians 1:9 (CEB)

KEY IDEA:

We can count on God to stick with us because he is faithful.

PRAYER:

Lord God, it is amazing that you would invite me to become a full partner in your operation. I am so grateful. And I know that you will remain faithful even though I struggle with doubt as I face the everyday challenges. Help me to remember how you have carried me along through both the hard and easy times. I am going to let my faith rather than my doubts shape my life. Amen.

God's children

God will bless those who honor the Lord— from the smallest to the greatest. ~ Psalm 115:13 (CEB)

You are all God’s children through faith in Christ Jesus. ~ Galatians 3:26 (CEB)

KEY IDEA:

All who trust Christ are children of God.

PRAYER:

Thank you, God, for including me in your family. Forgive me for acting like this is an exclusive privilege. Help me to become better at welcoming others into the Jesus family -- especially the least and the lost. I am going to honor God through my Jesus-inspired hospitality. Amen.

Words

Then the Lord stretched out his hand, touched my mouth, and said to me, “I’m putting my words in your mouth. ~ Jeremiah 1:9 (CEB)

So don’t worry in advance about how to answer the charges against you, for I will give you the right words and such wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to reply or refute you! ~ Luke 2l:14-15 (NLT) 

KEY IDEA:

The Lord gives us the words we need.

PRAYER:

Lord, you provide everything we need -- even the words needed for the moment. Forgive me for worrying over what I'm going to say, especially when I'm delivering your message. Show me how to relax and trust you. I am eager to hear what you are going to say through me. Amen.