October 20th Sermon & Devotionals
- Pastor Mark Porterfield
- Oct 21, 2024
- 2 min read
Five-Day Bible Reading Plan and Devotional
Sermon Audio
"First Response Prayer"
Day 1: The Breath of Prayer
Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Devotional: Just as breathing is essential for our physical life, prayer is the breath of our spiritual life. Paul's exhortation to "pray without ceasing" isn't about constantly reciting formal prayers, but rather maintaining an ongoing conversation with God. Today, practice awareness of God's presence throughout your day. Set reminders on your phone or use daily activities as cues to turn your thoughts to God. Whether it's a moment of gratitude, a quick plea for help, or simply acknowledging His presence, let prayer become as natural and constant as breathing.
Day 2: God's Inspired Word
Reading: 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Devotional: The Bible is not just a book, but a divinely inspired library. As you read today's passage, reflect on how God's Word has been "breathed" into existence for your benefit. Consider how Scripture has guided, corrected, or encouraged you in the past. Take time to appreciate the miraculous nature of having access to God's inspired words. Ask the Holy Spirit to illuminate the Scriptures for you, opening your eyes to see fresh insights and applications for your life today.
Day 3: From Last Resort to First Response
Reading: Psalm 46:1-3
Devotional: Often, we turn to prayer as a last resort when all else fails. Today's passage reminds us that God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Reflect on areas in your life where you might be treating prayer as a last resort rather than a first response. How might your perspective and actions change if you approached challenges by immediately turning to God? Practice making prayer your initial reaction to both difficulties and joys throughout the day, acknowledging God's presence in all circumstances.
Day 4: The Shema - Loving God Wholeheartedly
Reading: Deuteronomy 6:4-9
Devotional: The Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9) calls us to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength. This comprehensive love forms the foundation of our relationship with God. As you read this passage, consider what it means to love God wholeheartedly in your current life situation. How can you make God's commands a more integral part of your daily routine? Reflect on ways to keep God's Word at the forefront of your mind and to pass on your faith to others, whether children, friends, or colleagues.
Day 5: God's Power in Our Weakness
Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10
Devotional: God's power is greater than our own abilities. Today's passage reminds us that God's grace is sufficient and His power is made perfect in our weakness. Reflect on a current challenge or weakness in your life. Instead of relying solely on your own strength, how can you invite God's power into this situation? Practice boasting in your weaknesses today, not as a form of self-deprecation, but as an opportunity to showcase God's strength. Let this perspective shift your prayers from last-resort pleas to first-response invitations for God to work through you.
コメント