I've been INCREDIBLY inconsistent with these SoZo devos this year ... but hey, I'm trying again this week. We talked a lot today in both Sunday School and group tonight about practicing our faith and tapping into the power of the Holy Spirit. So I encourage you to take some time each day this week to read these Scripture passages and spend some time in prayer, thinking about OUR response to Jesus' sacrifice on the Cross. Take some time to think about YOUR role in this relationship with Jesus. Don't forget ... faith without works is dead. How can you be ALIVE in your faith this week? Just keep practicing. :) Love you, guys!
Monday - Read Romans 12:1-2.
Think about what it means to be a living sacrifice. How can you put that into practice this week?
Tuesday - Read Galatians 5:16-17.
What does it mean for the flesh to be opposed to the Spirit? Look up the word "opposition" in the dictionary if you wanna think a little deeper about this question. :) Do you ever feel your flesh (sinful nature) battling against the Holy Spirit in your life? How so?
Wednesday - Ephesians 5:15-18.
Think about what it means to be drunk with alcohol. Now, think about what being drunk with the Holy Spirit would look like? If we were drunk on Jesus everyday, what would our lives look like?
Thursday - Read Philippians 2:12-13.
Read this verse in the New Living Translation if you can. I especially like verse 13 in that translation. How do these verses challenge you or encourage you?
Friday - Read James 2:14-26.
Write down some thoughts about these verses. How do these verses make you stop and think about YOUR faith?
Saturday - Read James 2:14-26 again.
What kinds of "works" have you been doing in your everyday life lately? Make a list. Do you live your life to please God? If not, what is holding you back? If you've been struggling to serve God lately, how can you be more intentional in listening to the Holy Spirit's leadings and putting your faith into practice?
Prayer Requests from the group this week ...
~ Caylee takes her driver's test on Tuesday
~ Angelica's niece is sick ... may have malaria
~ Jenny starts culinary school this week
~ Kristy is struggling with her teammates on her softball team
~ Darian has three waitressing shifts at Dave's this week
~ Darrell's dad got fired from his coaching job recently
~ Dallas is looking for a new job
. . . about life lessons, parenting lessons, and faith lessons learned and LEARNING!
Showing posts with label For my SoZo-ers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label For my SoZo-ers. Show all posts
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Sunday, June 8, 2014
SoZo Devotionals: Faithfulness
Man, I just can't seem to get these devotionals up consistently. I'm so sorry for those of you who are wanting these each week. I just can't seem to figure out how to slow down. I will keep trying to be consistent. I hope you will be consistent to read your Bibles and spend time with Jesus even when I don't get these devos up on time.
Last Sunday, we talked a lot about faithfulness. We came up with several phrases to define faithfulness: true repentance, Truth in the inner most being, selflessness, and dependence on God. Think about these definitions as you read passages about faithfulness this week. I just have a few passages this week ...
Devo #1 - Read Proverbs 3:1-8
- Why does keeping God's commands bring us peace? (vs. 1-2)
- Verse 3 says, "Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you ..." Why should we "bind love and faithfulness around our necks" and "write them on our hearts"? What does that even mean?
- Why should we NOT trust our OWN understanding? (v. 5)
- How does fearing the Lord and turning away from evil refresh us? (vs. 7-8)
Devo #2 - Read Psalm 25:1-10
- What does trusting in the Lord have to do with being faithful to the Lord?
- Verses 4-7 are a prayer. What about this prayer reveals faithfulness?
- What happens when we keep God's commands? (v. 10)
Devo #3 - Read Psalm 86:1-13
- Verses 1-7 are a prayer of yearning. What about this prayer reveals faithfulness?
- Verse 8 says, "There is none like You, Lord...." Hoe does believing this statement reveal faithfulness?
- In the NIV, verse 11 says, "Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness." Other versions say, "Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your Truth." What does faithfulness have to do with God's Truth?
The celebration service on Sunday night was so amazing! God really does want to meet with us! We just have to be willing to meet with Him, make the time, and invite Him into our lives! I hope y'all will take some time to invite Him in this week. I'm gonna keep practicing doing just that! :) Love you guys! Have a great week!
Last Sunday, we talked a lot about faithfulness. We came up with several phrases to define faithfulness: true repentance, Truth in the inner most being, selflessness, and dependence on God. Think about these definitions as you read passages about faithfulness this week. I just have a few passages this week ...
Devo #1 - Read Proverbs 3:1-8
- Why does keeping God's commands bring us peace? (vs. 1-2)
- Verse 3 says, "Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you ..." Why should we "bind love and faithfulness around our necks" and "write them on our hearts"? What does that even mean?
- Why should we NOT trust our OWN understanding? (v. 5)
- How does fearing the Lord and turning away from evil refresh us? (vs. 7-8)
Devo #2 - Read Psalm 25:1-10
- What does trusting in the Lord have to do with being faithful to the Lord?
- Verses 4-7 are a prayer. What about this prayer reveals faithfulness?
- What happens when we keep God's commands? (v. 10)
Devo #3 - Read Psalm 86:1-13
- Verses 1-7 are a prayer of yearning. What about this prayer reveals faithfulness?
- Verse 8 says, "There is none like You, Lord...." Hoe does believing this statement reveal faithfulness?
- In the NIV, verse 11 says, "Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may rely on your faithfulness." Other versions say, "Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your Truth." What does faithfulness have to do with God's Truth?
The celebration service on Sunday night was so amazing! God really does want to meet with us! We just have to be willing to meet with Him, make the time, and invite Him into our lives! I hope y'all will take some time to invite Him in this week. I'm gonna keep practicing doing just that! :) Love you guys! Have a great week!
Monday, May 26, 2014
SoZo Devotionals: 1 Samuel
I started reading through the book of 1 Samuel recently ... so what better place to get our devotionals this week than what I'm reading in my own personal devotions? :) Hope you can get some good stuff out of this week's devos ... well, of course you will! It's GOD'S Word you're reading! Soak it up! Sit and think about it. Grow! And have a wonderful week!
Monday, May 26th - Read 1 Samuel 1
I think Hannah is such a cool lady! She had so much faith! As I read this chapter, I was able to learn a few things about Hannah that I can think about in my own life. Read about Hannah in this chapter, and then write down the things you find about her character. Do YOU carry the same character qualities in your life?
Tuesday, May 27th - Read 1 Samuel 2
Again, I found more character qualities in Hannah. Can you find 'em? And then think about it ... do you exhibit those same qualities? How can YOU grow in your character today?
Wednesday, May 28th - Read 1 Samuel 3
Samuel was READY to follow the Lord and do as He commanded. Think about YOUR life. Are YOU ready to follow the Lord? Do YOU strive to do all that He has called you to do? If not, what can you do to change that?
Thursday, May 29th - Read 1 Samuel 7:3-4
If we are following the Lord, why is it to important to "put away" (get rid of!) the gods (or idols) in our lives? What is an idol? Do YOU have idols in your life? How can you get rid of them and follow after the Lord? How can you "direct your heart to the Lord and serve Him only" as it says in verse 3?
Friday, May 30th - Read 1 Samuel 12:14-15
Verse 14 - What happens when we fear and obey the Lord?
Verse 15 - What happens when we rebel against the Lord?
HOW do YOU fear and obey the Lord in your daily life?
HOW do YOU rebel against the Lord in your daily life?
What changes do you need to make to honor the Lord?
Saturday, May 31st - 1 Samuel 13:8-15
What can you learn from Saul's life?
What happened when Saul didn't trust God and went His own way?
What happens when we don't trust God and walk our own way?
Don't forget to spend some time talking with Jesus this week. He loves to hear from you ... He seeks your worship ... and He wants to answer your prayers and lift your burdens. :)
Monday, May 26th - Read 1 Samuel 1
I think Hannah is such a cool lady! She had so much faith! As I read this chapter, I was able to learn a few things about Hannah that I can think about in my own life. Read about Hannah in this chapter, and then write down the things you find about her character. Do YOU carry the same character qualities in your life?
Tuesday, May 27th - Read 1 Samuel 2
Again, I found more character qualities in Hannah. Can you find 'em? And then think about it ... do you exhibit those same qualities? How can YOU grow in your character today?
Wednesday, May 28th - Read 1 Samuel 3
Samuel was READY to follow the Lord and do as He commanded. Think about YOUR life. Are YOU ready to follow the Lord? Do YOU strive to do all that He has called you to do? If not, what can you do to change that?
Thursday, May 29th - Read 1 Samuel 7:3-4
If we are following the Lord, why is it to important to "put away" (get rid of!) the gods (or idols) in our lives? What is an idol? Do YOU have idols in your life? How can you get rid of them and follow after the Lord? How can you "direct your heart to the Lord and serve Him only" as it says in verse 3?
Friday, May 30th - Read 1 Samuel 12:14-15
Verse 14 - What happens when we fear and obey the Lord?
Verse 15 - What happens when we rebel against the Lord?
HOW do YOU fear and obey the Lord in your daily life?
HOW do YOU rebel against the Lord in your daily life?
What changes do you need to make to honor the Lord?
Saturday, May 31st - 1 Samuel 13:8-15
What can you learn from Saul's life?
What happened when Saul didn't trust God and went His own way?
What happens when we don't trust God and walk our own way?
Don't forget to spend some time talking with Jesus this week. He loves to hear from you ... He seeks your worship ... and He wants to answer your prayers and lift your burdens. :)
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
SoZo Devos: Godly Counsel
Hey, everybody!
So sorry for slacking off the past month! I have no good excuse for not posting our weekly devotionals, so I hope you'll forgive me and pick back up where we left off. Here are a handful of devos to use over the next week and a half ... we're gonna talk about Godly counsel. Enjoy. Dig deep. Grow. :)
Devo #1 - Read Proverbs 12:15, Proverbs 11:14, and Proverbs 15:22
What/who are counselors ... or advisers?
What kinds of counselors/advisers should we listen to?
How can having many advisers be dangerous to your spiritual health?
Who are some of the Godly counselors in your life?
Who is our Ultimate Counselor?
Devo #2 - Read Jeremiah 7:23-26
What happens when we obey the voice of the Lord?
In verse 24, what do you think it means when it says, "they went backward and not forward?"
In what ways do you go backward in your life?
How can you obey God today?
Devo #3 - Read Psalm 81:10-14
What happens when we receive God's counsel and obey it?
What does it mean for God to "give them over to their stubborn hearts"?
How has your heart been stubborn lately?
What does it look like to "walk in God's ways" (v. 13)?
How can you walk in God's ways today?
Devo #4 - Read 2 Timothy 3:1-5
What a list, right?!
Read through that list again, and write down any of these characteristics that describe you. I know it may get ugly, but don't be afraid. Admitting sin is the first step to giving it over to the Lord.
Think of the people you receive advice from or just hang out with ... do those people possess any of these characteristics?
At the end of verse 5, Timothy tells us to avoid people with these ungodly characteristics. How come?
Devo #5 - Read Ephesians 2:1-7
How do we "follow the course of the world"? (v. 2)
What are the "passions of our flesh"? (v. 3)
What did God's great love and mercy save us from?
How can you live for Jesus today as a way to say thank you for His great love and mercy in our lives?
Devo #6 - Read Titus 2:11-14
Define the following phrases by writing them in your own words ... ungodliness; worldly passions; self-controlled lives; upright; godly lives.
Why is it wise to "renounce ungodliness and worldly passions"?
How can being "zealous for good works" be wise?
What are you passionate about? How can you glorify God in those things?
Most recent prayer requests from our group ....
Kristy - her softball coach (Coach Rogers)'s dad is very sick and not doing well; finals for school this week
Olivia - Saya is having back problems ... possible surgery, and Saya lost her job at Casey's; also, Olivia's friend, Courtney ... her dad has cancer
Eric - Angie's sanity for the last two weeks of school ... pray she doesn't kill any little children!
So sorry for slacking off the past month! I have no good excuse for not posting our weekly devotionals, so I hope you'll forgive me and pick back up where we left off. Here are a handful of devos to use over the next week and a half ... we're gonna talk about Godly counsel. Enjoy. Dig deep. Grow. :)
Devo #1 - Read Proverbs 12:15, Proverbs 11:14, and Proverbs 15:22
What/who are counselors ... or advisers?
What kinds of counselors/advisers should we listen to?
How can having many advisers be dangerous to your spiritual health?
Who are some of the Godly counselors in your life?
Who is our Ultimate Counselor?
Devo #2 - Read Jeremiah 7:23-26
What happens when we obey the voice of the Lord?
In verse 24, what do you think it means when it says, "they went backward and not forward?"
In what ways do you go backward in your life?
How can you obey God today?
Devo #3 - Read Psalm 81:10-14
What happens when we receive God's counsel and obey it?
What does it mean for God to "give them over to their stubborn hearts"?
How has your heart been stubborn lately?
What does it look like to "walk in God's ways" (v. 13)?
How can you walk in God's ways today?
Devo #4 - Read 2 Timothy 3:1-5
What a list, right?!
Read through that list again, and write down any of these characteristics that describe you. I know it may get ugly, but don't be afraid. Admitting sin is the first step to giving it over to the Lord.
Think of the people you receive advice from or just hang out with ... do those people possess any of these characteristics?
At the end of verse 5, Timothy tells us to avoid people with these ungodly characteristics. How come?
Devo #5 - Read Ephesians 2:1-7
How do we "follow the course of the world"? (v. 2)
What are the "passions of our flesh"? (v. 3)
What did God's great love and mercy save us from?
How can you live for Jesus today as a way to say thank you for His great love and mercy in our lives?
Devo #6 - Read Titus 2:11-14
Define the following phrases by writing them in your own words ... ungodliness; worldly passions; self-controlled lives; upright; godly lives.
Why is it wise to "renounce ungodliness and worldly passions"?
How can being "zealous for good works" be wise?
What are you passionate about? How can you glorify God in those things?
Most recent prayer requests from our group ....
Kristy - her softball coach (Coach Rogers)'s dad is very sick and not doing well; finals for school this week
Olivia - Saya is having back problems ... possible surgery, and Saya lost her job at Casey's; also, Olivia's friend, Courtney ... her dad has cancer
Eric - Angie's sanity for the last two weeks of school ... pray she doesn't kill any little children!
Saturday, April 19, 2014
SoZo Devotionals: Peter
Hey, SoZo!
Next Sunday morning, we will be continuing our study of Peter. This week's devotional passages will be taken from our lesson this Sunday ... so perhaps you can read them this week and have some thoughts for our discussion??? I think so ... I hope so at least. ;) Have a wonderful week! Take some time to think about the POWER of Jesus' resurrection this week. God's NOT dead! He is ALIVE! And He works in and through us by the POWER of His HOLY SPIRIT! SINCE Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, we have LIFE and POWER to live for Him! Wahoo! That is something to get excited about! I hope y'all will focus on how YOU can LIVE for Him this week. Love you all!
For each day's passage, READ it (haha! duh!), and then write down the facts it presents that give us confidence to trust in Jesus.
Sunday, April 20th - Matthew 14:22-33
Monday, April 21st - John 10:27-30
Tuesday, April 22nd - Romans 8:28-39
Wednesday, April 23rd - Philippians 4:12-13
Thursday, April 24th - Hebrews 1:1-4
Friday, April 25th - Hebrews 4:14-16
Saturday, April 26th - Hebrews 13:5-8
And don't forget to practice ... practice spending time with God THROUGHOUT your days ... practice prayer ... practice serving. When we commit our TIME to the Lord ... inviting Him into our days, He really does CHANGE OUR LIVES! :)
HAPPY EASTER!
Next Sunday morning, we will be continuing our study of Peter. This week's devotional passages will be taken from our lesson this Sunday ... so perhaps you can read them this week and have some thoughts for our discussion??? I think so ... I hope so at least. ;) Have a wonderful week! Take some time to think about the POWER of Jesus' resurrection this week. God's NOT dead! He is ALIVE! And He works in and through us by the POWER of His HOLY SPIRIT! SINCE Jesus rose from the dead on the third day, we have LIFE and POWER to live for Him! Wahoo! That is something to get excited about! I hope y'all will focus on how YOU can LIVE for Him this week. Love you all!
For each day's passage, READ it (haha! duh!), and then write down the facts it presents that give us confidence to trust in Jesus.
Sunday, April 20th - Matthew 14:22-33
Monday, April 21st - John 10:27-30
Tuesday, April 22nd - Romans 8:28-39
Wednesday, April 23rd - Philippians 4:12-13
Thursday, April 24th - Hebrews 1:1-4
Friday, April 25th - Hebrews 4:14-16
Saturday, April 26th - Hebrews 13:5-8
And don't forget to practice ... practice spending time with God THROUGHOUT your days ... practice prayer ... practice serving. When we commit our TIME to the Lord ... inviting Him into our days, He really does CHANGE OUR LIVES! :)
Sunday, April 13, 2014
SoZo Devotionals: Made to Crave
Hey, all! Sorry I didn't get any devos posted last week. We went to North Carolina and got back late Sunday night ... and well, I spaced it. But this week's devos are awesome! I pulled them from my Made to Crave study I've been working through over the past couple months. This week is simple, but if you really take some time to think about these verses by answering the questions, they can really give you some perspective! Have a wonderful week! I love you all bunches!
Sunday,
April 13th – Read Ephesians 5:25-33
What does this passage teach about daily
dependence on God?
What significance does this passage have for my
life in Christ?
Monday,
April 14th – Read Philippians 3:18-19
What does this passage teach about daily
dependence on God?
What significance does this passage have for my
life in Christ?
Tuesday,
April 15th – Read Revelation 2:17
What does this passage teach about daily
dependence on God?
What significance does this passage have for my
life in Christ?
Wednesday,
April 16th – Read Psalm 73:23-26
What does this passage teach about daily
dependence on God?
What significance does this passage have for my
life in Christ?
Thursday,
April 17th – Read Lamentations 3:22-26
What does this passage teach about daily
dependence on God?
What significance does this passage have for my
life in Christ?
Friday,
April 18th – Read Matthew 6:9-13
What does this passage teach about daily
dependence on God?
What significance does this passage have for my
life in Christ?
Saturday,
April 19th – Read Deuteronomy 8:3
What does this passage teach about daily
dependence on God?
What significance does this passage have for my
life in Christ?
Sunday, March 30, 2014
SoZo Devotionals: Romans
Hello, again!
I hope, if you've been working through the SoZo devotionals, that you're soaking in some good Truth and thinking more on the things of the Lord. That is the goal of daily devotionals ... to refocus our minds on the Lord. With all the distractions and worries and frustrations of this life, we need to REFOCUS on what and who is most important. Taking just a few minutes out of each day, putting these Truths into practice, and practicing dwelling on the Lord through prayer and thankfulness each day helps us refocus. I hope you will keep practicing your faith with me!
This week, our devotionals are pretty simple but may take a little extra time. But you be the judge! You can rewrite EACH verse, or just pick out the verses that speak to you the most. This is YOUR devotional time, so make the most of it! You will be reading through Romans chapter 8, probably one of my top-ten favorite chapters in the Bible. Each day, read the suggested verses, and then rewrite each verse, putting it in your own words ... another way to think about each verse is to ask, "What does this verse mean?" and then write it down. And don't forget to spend a few minutes in prayer ... whether you journal your prayers, pray them out loud, or find another way to pray. Don't be afraid to pour out your heart to God, like it says in Psalm 62:8. Just talk to Him like you would talk to a friend.
We're starting on Monday this week!
Monday, March 31st - Read Romans 8:1-8.
Spend some time rewriting each of these verses, asking yourself, "What does this verse mean?"
And pray. :)
Tuesday, April 1st - Read Romans 8:9-11.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Wednesday, April 2nd - Read Romans 8:12-17.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Thursday, April 3rd - Read Romans 8:18-25.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Friday, April 4th - Read Romans 8:26-30.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Saturday, April 5th - Read Romans 31-39.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Have a wonderful first week of April, y'all! Spring is coming ... we just don't know when! ;) Be thankful anyway! That's what I'm gonna keep trying to practice! Love you guys! :)
I hope, if you've been working through the SoZo devotionals, that you're soaking in some good Truth and thinking more on the things of the Lord. That is the goal of daily devotionals ... to refocus our minds on the Lord. With all the distractions and worries and frustrations of this life, we need to REFOCUS on what and who is most important. Taking just a few minutes out of each day, putting these Truths into practice, and practicing dwelling on the Lord through prayer and thankfulness each day helps us refocus. I hope you will keep practicing your faith with me!
This week, our devotionals are pretty simple but may take a little extra time. But you be the judge! You can rewrite EACH verse, or just pick out the verses that speak to you the most. This is YOUR devotional time, so make the most of it! You will be reading through Romans chapter 8, probably one of my top-ten favorite chapters in the Bible. Each day, read the suggested verses, and then rewrite each verse, putting it in your own words ... another way to think about each verse is to ask, "What does this verse mean?" and then write it down. And don't forget to spend a few minutes in prayer ... whether you journal your prayers, pray them out loud, or find another way to pray. Don't be afraid to pour out your heart to God, like it says in Psalm 62:8. Just talk to Him like you would talk to a friend.
We're starting on Monday this week!
Monday, March 31st - Read Romans 8:1-8.
Spend some time rewriting each of these verses, asking yourself, "What does this verse mean?"
And pray. :)
Tuesday, April 1st - Read Romans 8:9-11.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Wednesday, April 2nd - Read Romans 8:12-17.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Thursday, April 3rd - Read Romans 8:18-25.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Friday, April 4th - Read Romans 8:26-30.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Saturday, April 5th - Read Romans 31-39.
Rewrite.
Pray. :)
Have a wonderful first week of April, y'all! Spring is coming ... we just don't know when! ;) Be thankful anyway! That's what I'm gonna keep trying to practice! Love you guys! :)
Saturday, March 22, 2014
SoZo Devotionals: Just some cool Scriptures :)
Hey, you guys! Here are some Scriptures God has been showing me over the past couple of weeks. Hope you get a chance to do some devos this week, whether these or some others you have found. Let's keep practicing knowing God better every single day! :)
Sunday, March 23rd - Read Psalm 86:10-12
~ v. 10 - List the "wondrous things" God has done in your life recently.
~ v. 11 - This verse talks about an "undivided heart." What things in your life distract you from the Lord? What things cause your heart to be divided?
~ v. 12 - Write down some things you're thankful for ... and then take some time to thank God for 'em!
I just finished my book, Too Busy Not To Pray by Bill Hybels, and he suggested journaling/examining your life and praying what you write down. It's a great way to practice prayer! ... Take some time to examine your life today (or if you're a morning devo-er, examine your life yesterday). Write down some attitudes/sins/joys/experiences from today ... and pray through them.
Monday, March 24th - Read Psalm 73:23-26
~ v. 23 - What do you need comfort for today?
~ v. 24 - What do you need wisdom (counsel) for in your life right now?
~ v. 25 - Do you really desire God above all else? What/Who is standing in your way of desiring God?
~ v. 26 - Think about what you're going through these days ... how can applying the Truth of this verse give you strength?
Take some time to examine your life today.
Tuesday, March 25th - Read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
~ What do you think it means for our bodies to be "temples of the Holy Spirit"?
~ We were "bought with a price." What was that price? What will be your response to that price?
~ How can you treat your body as a temple to the glory of God?
Take some time to examine your life again today.
Wednesday, March 26th - Read Psalm 46:10
~ In the NASB, this verse says "Cease striving, and know that I am God." Look up the definition of strive.
~ When is is good to strive? When is it bad to strive?
~ Why would God want us to "cease striving" and "be still"?
~ How/when can you practice being still in your life?
Take some time to examine yourself.
Thursday, March 27th - Read Isaiah 6:1-8
~ What was Isaiah's response to seeing God in all His holiness and power?
~ What sin are you struggling with right now? Read and pray through Psalm 139:23-24.
~ v. 7 - God offers us the same forgiveness. What kind of comfort does this promise bring you?
Don't forget to spend some time examining your life today!
Friday, March 28th - Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
~ v. 16 - What would it take for you to be joyful everyday, even when things are hard?
~ v. 17 - What does your prayer life look like? How can you practice praying more often?
~ v. 18 - How does being thankful help you accomplish God's will?
Examine yourself.
Saturday, March 29th - Read Proverbs 3:5-6
~ Why is it difficult to trust in the Lord?
~ How can you put your trust in the Lord into practice this week?
Spend some time praying, examining your life today.
Sunday, March 23rd - Read Psalm 86:10-12
~ v. 10 - List the "wondrous things" God has done in your life recently.
~ v. 11 - This verse talks about an "undivided heart." What things in your life distract you from the Lord? What things cause your heart to be divided?
~ v. 12 - Write down some things you're thankful for ... and then take some time to thank God for 'em!
I just finished my book, Too Busy Not To Pray by Bill Hybels, and he suggested journaling/examining your life and praying what you write down. It's a great way to practice prayer! ... Take some time to examine your life today (or if you're a morning devo-er, examine your life yesterday). Write down some attitudes/sins/joys/experiences from today ... and pray through them.
Monday, March 24th - Read Psalm 73:23-26
~ v. 23 - What do you need comfort for today?
~ v. 24 - What do you need wisdom (counsel) for in your life right now?
~ v. 25 - Do you really desire God above all else? What/Who is standing in your way of desiring God?
~ v. 26 - Think about what you're going through these days ... how can applying the Truth of this verse give you strength?
Take some time to examine your life today.
Tuesday, March 25th - Read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20
~ What do you think it means for our bodies to be "temples of the Holy Spirit"?
~ We were "bought with a price." What was that price? What will be your response to that price?
~ How can you treat your body as a temple to the glory of God?
Take some time to examine your life again today.
Wednesday, March 26th - Read Psalm 46:10
~ In the NASB, this verse says "Cease striving, and know that I am God." Look up the definition of strive.
~ When is is good to strive? When is it bad to strive?
~ Why would God want us to "cease striving" and "be still"?
~ How/when can you practice being still in your life?
Take some time to examine yourself.
Thursday, March 27th - Read Isaiah 6:1-8
~ What was Isaiah's response to seeing God in all His holiness and power?
~ What sin are you struggling with right now? Read and pray through Psalm 139:23-24.
~ v. 7 - God offers us the same forgiveness. What kind of comfort does this promise bring you?
Don't forget to spend some time examining your life today!
Friday, March 28th - Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
~ v. 16 - What would it take for you to be joyful everyday, even when things are hard?
~ v. 17 - What does your prayer life look like? How can you practice praying more often?
~ v. 18 - How does being thankful help you accomplish God's will?
Examine yourself.
Saturday, March 29th - Read Proverbs 3:5-6
~ Why is it difficult to trust in the Lord?
~ How can you put your trust in the Lord into practice this week?
Spend some time praying, examining your life today.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
SoZo Devotionals: Philippians
On Sunday, Pastor challenged us, the congregation, to read through the book of Philippians this week. So our SoZo devotionals for this week will be made up of just that ... the book of Philippians. :) Pastor also told us that the main theme of Philippians is JOY. Yay! Joy is a wonderful thing ... especially when we learn to LIVE it in our everyday lives!
Look below for this week's daily devotionals ....
Sunday, March 16th - Read Philippians chapter 1.
Describe the joy you feel when you think about how God's not done with you yet (Phil. 1:6).
What joy do you find in this prayer? --> Phil. 1:9-11
What joy can be found in dying (Phil. 1:21)?
Character is being and acting in the same way whether people are watching your life or you are in secret. What joy can be found in living with character (Phil. 1:27)?
Monday, March 17th - Read Philippians 2:1-11.
What joy is there in putting other people's needs before your own (Phil. 2:3-4)?
When you think about what Jesus went through for your salvation, explain how Jesus' sacrifice affects your joy (Phil. 2:5-11).
Tuesday, March 18th - Read Philippians 2:12-30.
How do you feel knowing that your ability to do good in this world can only come from God and not from yourself (Phil. 2:13)?
How do you think doing everything without complaining affects your joy (Phil. 2:14)?
Wednesday, March 19th - Read Philippians 3:1-11.
How can having the perspective that nothing compares with Christ bring you joy (Phil. 3:7-11)?
Thursday, March 20th - Read Philippians 3:12-21.
How can keeping your mind fixed on the prize of heaven give you joy (Phil. 3:12-14)?
What do you think about Philippians 3:20-21? Do these verses give you joy? If yes, then how so?
Friday, March 21st - Read Philippians 4:1-9.
How can pouring out your heart to God bring you joy (Phil. 4:6-7)?
How are peace and joy related (Phil. 4:7)?
How can thinking about and doing godly things bring you joy (Phil. 4:8)?
Saturday, March 22nd - Read Philippians 4:10-23.
How can practicing contentment bring you joy (Phil. 4:11-12)?
What do you think about Philippians 4:19? Does this verse give you joy? If yes, then how so?
Have a wonderful week, my favorites! Love you all! :)
Look below for this week's daily devotionals ....
Sunday, March 16th - Read Philippians chapter 1.
Describe the joy you feel when you think about how God's not done with you yet (Phil. 1:6).
What joy do you find in this prayer? --> Phil. 1:9-11
What joy can be found in dying (Phil. 1:21)?
Character is being and acting in the same way whether people are watching your life or you are in secret. What joy can be found in living with character (Phil. 1:27)?
Monday, March 17th - Read Philippians 2:1-11.
What joy is there in putting other people's needs before your own (Phil. 2:3-4)?
When you think about what Jesus went through for your salvation, explain how Jesus' sacrifice affects your joy (Phil. 2:5-11).
Tuesday, March 18th - Read Philippians 2:12-30.
How do you feel knowing that your ability to do good in this world can only come from God and not from yourself (Phil. 2:13)?
How do you think doing everything without complaining affects your joy (Phil. 2:14)?
Wednesday, March 19th - Read Philippians 3:1-11.
How can having the perspective that nothing compares with Christ bring you joy (Phil. 3:7-11)?
Thursday, March 20th - Read Philippians 3:12-21.
How can keeping your mind fixed on the prize of heaven give you joy (Phil. 3:12-14)?
What do you think about Philippians 3:20-21? Do these verses give you joy? If yes, then how so?
Friday, March 21st - Read Philippians 4:1-9.
How can pouring out your heart to God bring you joy (Phil. 4:6-7)?
How are peace and joy related (Phil. 4:7)?
How can thinking about and doing godly things bring you joy (Phil. 4:8)?
Saturday, March 22nd - Read Philippians 4:10-23.
How can practicing contentment bring you joy (Phil. 4:11-12)?
What do you think about Philippians 4:19? Does this verse give you joy? If yes, then how so?
Have a wonderful week, my favorites! Love you all! :)
Sunday, January 5, 2014
SoZo: Jesus was Fervent
Hey, SoZo!
We were so sad to have to cancel Sunday School AND our Sunday night group today because of the snow. We miss you guys! But the snow sure is beautiful, and maybe you get a day off school? I know I got the day off work tomorrow. Haha! Anyway ... I wanted to share a devotional with y'all. And don't forget to check out the Calvary 60-day reading challenge (provided at the end of this post) ... let's get into God's Word all the more this year, shall we?
Here we go ...
I've been reading through Matthew as part of the 60-day challenge, and here is one part of the reading I thought was pretty cool ....
Matthew 4:1-11 - Go grab your Bible, and read this passage.
We're studying Romans 12:11 on Sunday mornings, and the middle part of that verse says "be fervent in the Spirit." This temptation of Jesus passage reminds me of being fervent in the Spirit because Jesus was fervent in the Spirit. Now, He was (is) GOD, so He had just a bit of an advantage here (haha!), but He had to be fervent in the Spirit (focused on His Father and in constant communication with Him) in order to say NO to Satan in these situations. He was stinkin' hungry afterall! I love His responses ... take a minute to think about each one.
- "Man shall not live on bread alone but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God." (v. 4)
What does it mean to live on every word out of the mouth of God?
HOW do we do that?
- "You shall not put the Lord your God to the test." (v. 7)
What does it mean to test God?
Why is testing God so serious?
- "You shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only." (v. 10)
Why should we worship God ONLY?
What idols (things you put before God) are in your life now that you need to get rid of?
HOW will you get rid of them?
God is so faithful, you guys. He loves you so much and has such plans for you. One of the many plans He has for you is to GROW in your love for and understanding of Him. He wants a personal relationship with you! So take the time to get to know Him better this year. Let's GO DEEPER!
Love you all! :)
Day 1 - Matthew 1-4 /// Day 2 - Matthew 5-7 /// Day 3 - Matthew 8-13 /// Day 4 - Matthew 14-18 /// Day 5 (today!) - Matthew 19-25 /// Day 6 - Matthew 26-28 /// Day 7 - Ephesians /// Day 8 - 1 Peter /// Day 9 - Titus /// Day 10 - 1 Corinthians 1-8 /// Day 11 - 1 Corinthians 9-16 /// Day 12 - Mark 1-5 /// Day 13 - Mark 6-11 /// Day 14 - Mark 12-16 /// Day 15 - 1 John /// Day 16 - James /// Day 17 - 1 Timothy /// Day 18 - Romans 1-4 /// Day 19 - Romans 5-8 /// Day 20 - Romans 9-11 /// Day 21 - Romans 12-16 /// Day 22 - Acts 1-3 /// Day 23 - Acts 4-7 /// Day 24 - Acts 8-11 /// Day 25 - Acts 12-15 /// Day 26 - Acts 16-20 /// Day 27 - Acts 21-24 /// Day 28 - Acts 25-28 /// Day 29 - Colossians /// Day 30 - Philemon /// Day 31 - Galatians /// Day 32 - Luke 1-5 /// Day 33 - Luke 6-10 /// Day 34 - Luke 11-15 /// Day 35 - Luke 16-21 /// Day 36 - Luke 22-24 /// Day 37 - Hebrews 1-3 /// Day 38 - Hebrews 4-7 /// Day 39 - Hebrews 8-10 /// Day 40 - Hebrews 11-13 /// Day 41 - 2 & 3 John /// Day 42 - 1 Thessalonians /// Day 43 - 2 Corinthians 1-7 /// Day 44 - 2 Corinthians 8-13 /// Day 45 - John 1-3 /// Day 46 - John 4-6 /// Day 47 - John 7-9 /// Day 48 - John 10-12 /// Day 49 - John 13-15 /// Day 50 - John 16-17 /// Day 51 - John 18-21 /// Day 52 - 2 Thessalonians /// Day 53 - Philippians /// Day 54 - 2 Peter & Jude /// Day 55 - 2 Timothy /// Day 56 - Revelation 1-5 /// Day 57 - Revelation 6-9 /// Day 58 - Revelation 10-13 /// Day 59 - Revelation 14-18 /// Day 60 - Revelation 19-22
We were so sad to have to cancel Sunday School AND our Sunday night group today because of the snow. We miss you guys! But the snow sure is beautiful, and maybe you get a day off school? I know I got the day off work tomorrow. Haha! Anyway ... I wanted to share a devotional with y'all. And don't forget to check out the Calvary 60-day reading challenge (provided at the end of this post) ... let's get into God's Word all the more this year, shall we?
Here we go ...
I've been reading through Matthew as part of the 60-day challenge, and here is one part of the reading I thought was pretty cool ....
Matthew 4:1-11 - Go grab your Bible, and read this passage.
We're studying Romans 12:11 on Sunday mornings, and the middle part of that verse says "be fervent in the Spirit." This temptation of Jesus passage reminds me of being fervent in the Spirit because Jesus was fervent in the Spirit. Now, He was (is) GOD, so He had just a bit of an advantage here (haha!), but He had to be fervent in the Spirit (focused on His Father and in constant communication with Him) in order to say NO to Satan in these situations. He was stinkin' hungry afterall! I love His responses ... take a minute to think about each one.
- "Man shall not live on bread alone but on every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God." (v. 4)
What does it mean to live on every word out of the mouth of God?
HOW do we do that?
- "You shall not put the Lord your God to the test." (v. 7)
What does it mean to test God?
Why is testing God so serious?
- "You shall worship the Lord your God and serve Him only." (v. 10)
Why should we worship God ONLY?
What idols (things you put before God) are in your life now that you need to get rid of?
HOW will you get rid of them?
God is so faithful, you guys. He loves you so much and has such plans for you. One of the many plans He has for you is to GROW in your love for and understanding of Him. He wants a personal relationship with you! So take the time to get to know Him better this year. Let's GO DEEPER!
Love you all! :)
Day 1 - Matthew 1-4 /// Day 2 - Matthew 5-7 /// Day 3 - Matthew 8-13 /// Day 4 - Matthew 14-18 /// Day 5 (today!) - Matthew 19-25 /// Day 6 - Matthew 26-28 /// Day 7 - Ephesians /// Day 8 - 1 Peter /// Day 9 - Titus /// Day 10 - 1 Corinthians 1-8 /// Day 11 - 1 Corinthians 9-16 /// Day 12 - Mark 1-5 /// Day 13 - Mark 6-11 /// Day 14 - Mark 12-16 /// Day 15 - 1 John /// Day 16 - James /// Day 17 - 1 Timothy /// Day 18 - Romans 1-4 /// Day 19 - Romans 5-8 /// Day 20 - Romans 9-11 /// Day 21 - Romans 12-16 /// Day 22 - Acts 1-3 /// Day 23 - Acts 4-7 /// Day 24 - Acts 8-11 /// Day 25 - Acts 12-15 /// Day 26 - Acts 16-20 /// Day 27 - Acts 21-24 /// Day 28 - Acts 25-28 /// Day 29 - Colossians /// Day 30 - Philemon /// Day 31 - Galatians /// Day 32 - Luke 1-5 /// Day 33 - Luke 6-10 /// Day 34 - Luke 11-15 /// Day 35 - Luke 16-21 /// Day 36 - Luke 22-24 /// Day 37 - Hebrews 1-3 /// Day 38 - Hebrews 4-7 /// Day 39 - Hebrews 8-10 /// Day 40 - Hebrews 11-13 /// Day 41 - 2 & 3 John /// Day 42 - 1 Thessalonians /// Day 43 - 2 Corinthians 1-7 /// Day 44 - 2 Corinthians 8-13 /// Day 45 - John 1-3 /// Day 46 - John 4-6 /// Day 47 - John 7-9 /// Day 48 - John 10-12 /// Day 49 - John 13-15 /// Day 50 - John 16-17 /// Day 51 - John 18-21 /// Day 52 - 2 Thessalonians /// Day 53 - Philippians /// Day 54 - 2 Peter & Jude /// Day 55 - 2 Timothy /// Day 56 - Revelation 1-5 /// Day 57 - Revelation 6-9 /// Day 58 - Revelation 10-13 /// Day 59 - Revelation 14-18 /// Day 60 - Revelation 19-22
Sunday, February 5, 2012
SoZo: Show Jesus
Hey, SoZo! Since we're not meeting tonight, I thought I'd post some more Jesus thoughts for y'all.
For this SoZo devo, you need to watch the video at this URL ... http://youtu.be/x4p9CdXCPWE ... yep, you guessed it! It's another short lesson over a Jamie Grace song! :) My favorite song on her album - "Show Jesus."
Not only does this song have a great beat, but it's got a great message too. Don't you wanna be around people who love Jesus??? I love being around people who are so full of God's joy that you can see it "all over their face." And I wanna BE a person who exudes Jesus in that way!!!
Matthew 5:14-16 says, "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. in the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in Heaven."
We need to SHOW JESUS wherever we go so that other people will come to know Jesus through us. Once the Holy Spirit lives inside us, He is our LIGHT. He is the Light of God that shines through our lives. We don't want to hide that light ... we want to let it shine BRIGHT - in plain sight - right on our faces, even! So that everyone who sees us, talks to us, hears about us will know that we belong to Jesus. We need to constantly set our mind to doing "good works," as the verse says. God wants us to love and serve Him by loving and serving others. Those good works have the potential to lead others to Christ, so that's go crazy loving and serving those around us!
And before you go, take a look at these two passages from Ephesians ... they are all about showing Jesus in the way we live our lives ...
Ephesians 4:1-3 - "I therefore, a prisoner of the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."
Ephesians 5:15-17 - "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is."
And what is God's will for us?
To SHOW JESUS!
Love you guys! Have a great week, and I'll see you on Thursday for Zumba and Bible Study! :D
Thursday, January 12, 2012
SoZo: Psalm 124 :)
Hey, SoZo!
Since we don't have Bible study tonight ... lousy weather ... I thought I'd share a "lesson" with you here on my blog. That way, we can still "meet together" this week.
So ... go grab your Bible real fast ... and I'll wait here. :)
Okay, you're back ... here we go.
We've been talking about relationships in SoZo lately. Last Sunday, we talked about confronting others when they need it and being confronted when we need it for ourselves. Tonight, I want us to think about how we should respond when people "rise up against us," like it says in the Scripture passage we're gonna look at.
Open your Bible and read Psalm 124 - yep, the whole chapter. It's pretty short. You can also read it below, if you so desire ...
Psalm 124
"If the Lord had not been on our side - let Israel now say - if the Lord had not been on our side when people rose up against us, they would have swallowed us alive because of their burning anger against us. The waters would have engulfed us; a torrent would have overwhelmed us. Yes, the raging waters of their fury would have overwhelmed our very lives. Blessed be the Lord, who did not let their teeth tear us apart! We escaped like a bird from a hunter's trap. the trap is broken, and we are free! Our help is from the Lord, who made the heavens and the earth."
Take a second to think about how people "rise up against us" sometimes. Write down some of your answers somewhere if you like. But think about it ...
~ What does it mean for someone to "rise up against us?"
~ How do people rise up against us?
Maybe by gossiping about us ... by calling us names or tearing us down ... by not believing in us? What about someone dissing our family or the way we sing or the way we play soccer ... or maybe someone making fun of us or being hateful to us because we stand up for Jesus? Have any of these things ever happened to you? Think of some of your own scenarios ... when have people risen up against you? What was it that they said or did?
Now ...
How did that person or situation make you feel?
Probably pretty crumby. It is never fun to be persecuted, looked down upon, disliked, or slandered.
Psalm 124 (and our own life experiences) tells us that these situations might "swallow us up" and "overwhelm us." Basically, when mean or evil things happen to us, it can really start to bring us down ... we may even become super distracted or even consumed by our discouragement. BUT!!! What I want y'all to think about tonight is the HOPE Psalm 124 gives us. ... Look at verse 1 again ...
"If the Lord had not been on our side ..."
That means that God IS on our side! And that means God is going to help us through those times when people rise up against us. It is inevitable that people and situations are going to discourage us, tear us down, humiliate us, harm us, make us feel horrible ... BUT GOD will sustain us. He will be our HELP! ... Look at verse 8 again ...
"Our help is from the Lord, who made the heavens and the earth."
Yep ... the same God who made everything we see on this planet loves us, EACH of us, enough to be our Helper ... to stand by us and build us up ... in the most difficult of times. So take courage in that, my SoZo-ers! If you are discouraged or feel beaten down today because someone is hatin' on you, take heart! Cry out to God for help. He is ready to comfort you and give you strength.
Take a couple of minutes to seek God for His help and strength. Meet with God ... He is ready to fill you up! :) I love you guys! See y'all Sunday morning. And don't forget about lunch at my house from 12:30 to 2:30pm this Sunday afternoon. Hope you can make it! :)
Since we don't have Bible study tonight ... lousy weather ... I thought I'd share a "lesson" with you here on my blog. That way, we can still "meet together" this week.
So ... go grab your Bible real fast ... and I'll wait here. :)
Okay, you're back ... here we go.
We've been talking about relationships in SoZo lately. Last Sunday, we talked about confronting others when they need it and being confronted when we need it for ourselves. Tonight, I want us to think about how we should respond when people "rise up against us," like it says in the Scripture passage we're gonna look at.
Open your Bible and read Psalm 124 - yep, the whole chapter. It's pretty short. You can also read it below, if you so desire ...
Psalm 124
"If the Lord had not been on our side - let Israel now say - if the Lord had not been on our side when people rose up against us, they would have swallowed us alive because of their burning anger against us. The waters would have engulfed us; a torrent would have overwhelmed us. Yes, the raging waters of their fury would have overwhelmed our very lives. Blessed be the Lord, who did not let their teeth tear us apart! We escaped like a bird from a hunter's trap. the trap is broken, and we are free! Our help is from the Lord, who made the heavens and the earth."
Take a second to think about how people "rise up against us" sometimes. Write down some of your answers somewhere if you like. But think about it ...
~ What does it mean for someone to "rise up against us?"
~ How do people rise up against us?
Maybe by gossiping about us ... by calling us names or tearing us down ... by not believing in us? What about someone dissing our family or the way we sing or the way we play soccer ... or maybe someone making fun of us or being hateful to us because we stand up for Jesus? Have any of these things ever happened to you? Think of some of your own scenarios ... when have people risen up against you? What was it that they said or did?
Now ...
How did that person or situation make you feel?
Probably pretty crumby. It is never fun to be persecuted, looked down upon, disliked, or slandered.
Psalm 124 (and our own life experiences) tells us that these situations might "swallow us up" and "overwhelm us." Basically, when mean or evil things happen to us, it can really start to bring us down ... we may even become super distracted or even consumed by our discouragement. BUT!!! What I want y'all to think about tonight is the HOPE Psalm 124 gives us. ... Look at verse 1 again ...
"If the Lord had not been on our side ..."
That means that God IS on our side! And that means God is going to help us through those times when people rise up against us. It is inevitable that people and situations are going to discourage us, tear us down, humiliate us, harm us, make us feel horrible ... BUT GOD will sustain us. He will be our HELP! ... Look at verse 8 again ...
"Our help is from the Lord, who made the heavens and the earth."
Yep ... the same God who made everything we see on this planet loves us, EACH of us, enough to be our Helper ... to stand by us and build us up ... in the most difficult of times. So take courage in that, my SoZo-ers! If you are discouraged or feel beaten down today because someone is hatin' on you, take heart! Cry out to God for help. He is ready to comfort you and give you strength.
Take a couple of minutes to seek God for His help and strength. Meet with God ... He is ready to fill you up! :) I love you guys! See y'all Sunday morning. And don't forget about lunch at my house from 12:30 to 2:30pm this Sunday afternoon. Hope you can make it! :)
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