Welcome to
Lov Nation's
21-Day Devotional
Our devotional is a companion for your journey, providing daily reflections, and scriptures to keep you focused and inspired. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or just starting your spiritual journey, this resource is tailored to meet you where you are and guide you toward a more profound understanding of your faith. As we embark on these 21 days together, we invite you to engage with our community. Share your experiences, insights, and prayer requests on our social platforms, creating a sense of unity and support.
Day 1: Faith
Matthew 21:22 - And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith.
Reflection
Can you? Would you? Will you? Asking for something is an interesting thing. Depending on who you are asking or what you are asking for the task can be simple or complex. It can bring anxiety or a guaranteed gateway to relief. Most people ask expecting to receive. After all, no one would naturally go after or request something with no expectation to receive a yes. As believers, when we ask God for something it is no different. We ask God for things and expect to receive whatever it is we are asking for. The reality however is that throughout life we interpret God’s answer to our request differently. If we got what we asked for, just not in the time we thought, it hinders our ask in the future. If God responded, but not in the way we originally wanted him to, the pain from disappointment might cause us to be a bit more safe with what we ask of him. In Matthew 21, we are given instruction however. We are given a promise that when we make a request we will in fact receive whatever we are asking for. There is an end clause to this promise though! One that I want to really make sure that you see and properly understand. There is something we have to do in order for the promise to manifest. The scripture says you must have faith, a complete trust or confidence in God or his ability to give us what we have asked for. I know 2023 may not have yielded all that you were hoping for. Maybe you faced a challenge you were not expecting or maybe it was good, just not the great you had hoped for. God still desires to bless you! Align your ask with his will for your life and have FAITH that HE will bless you with a pouring out of exactly what you need. Ask! And know that if you have faith, you will receive. For GOD is faithful.
Today's Charge
Take a moment today to pray. Ask God to reveal to you an area where you lack faith in him. As he reveals this area, dig deep for understanding from God as to what hinders your faith in this area. Are you seeing things properly? Allow God to minister to you. Then, create a big ask for the year. Make sure it is something audacious and God-breathed. Ask the Lord for guidance if you need to. Write this ask down and store it in a safe place that you can refer back to throughout the year. Put your faith to the test and truly believe God!
Day 2: Purpose
Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
Reflection
Everyone desires to know why they exist, whether they realize it or not. It is innate within us to want to understand why we were born and what it is on this earth we were formed to do. Jeremiah was a prophet of the Lord, and this scripture gives us words directly from God. The words are that He knows the plans He has for us, meaning he knows why we were born and what we have been formed to do. Why? Because He not only created us but also made plans for us. However, I want to make sure you understand the statement's importance. It says He knows, which means this is something we have to discover or find out. What is the best way to do this? By examining what the world is doing? By taking inventory of the best ways to make money or watching others? No. By asking, seeking, and requesting those answers from the one who created you and thought enough of you to make a plan for you. The scripture goes on to articulate what else God said in the form of a promise from Him.
Not only did God create a plan or plans for you, but the plans were to prosper you and not to harm you. The plans are to give you hope and a future. I don't know about you, but I have made several plans for myself. As I reflect on this scripture and as we begin 2024, I am reminded of what Pastor Brandon spoke on New Year's Eve. This year, I am taking time to reset. I have turned the page, and before I begin to write my 2024, I am handing over the pen to God. Yes, I am made in his image, which means I can create myself. However, I am submitting to his plans for the year, giving Him the time, space, and formlessness to begin the chapter.
Today's Charge
Reflect on 2023 and confess to God areas where you made your own plans without consulting him. Repent, and ask God for forgiveness, He is faithful and will forgive you. Make a commitment to seek Him first and give Him not only your new blank page but the pen to write it. Make sure to be ready to take some notes. God speaks when we position ourselves and clear the way for Him only.
Day 3: Focus
And he said, “I heard the sound of you in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked, and I hid myself.” He said, “Who told you that you were naked? Have you eaten of the tree of which I commanded you not to eat?” Genesis 3:10-11 NIV
Reflection
How much time are we simply wasting being focused on the wrong things? Things that never mattered, to begin with, things that don’t progress us toward purpose - things that only rob us of time. In this passage of scripture, pay attention to the fact that Adam and Eve had always been naked. Their nakedness was never anything to be ashamed of or hidden. It had never been a stumbling block because it was never an area of focus. In the commandments given to them by God, you’ll never find Him telling them to cover themselves. From this text, we can deduce that your level of focus is only a reflection of the voice you’ve been listening to. When you listen to things that are not in alignment with what God has spoken and instructed you to do, you’ll unnecessarily exert time and effort being busy but ineffective. This is sin! The sin in the text was not that they ate the forbidden fruit but rather that they listened to another voice. Their attention to another caused them to step outside of their purpose and waste time trying to hide what was intentionally exposed. Sin will always shift your focus. You’ll begin to major on the minor things and engage the major things as if they were small and unimportant. Fulfillment of Destiny is for the Focused. Truth is, there is nothing the focused can’t do but because the enemy of our souls takes pleasure in unfulfilled purposes – he uses the tool called distraction. The truth about your enemy is that he does not have any new tricks or tactics he constantly repeats previous ones at different times and seasons of your life hoping that you would take the bait. Distraction is simply diversion and this is the goal of the enemy — to get you off course, prolonging the time it takes to reach destiny. Could it be that the frustration you have regarding the timeline of your life is nothing more than a direct connection to your susceptibility to DISTRACTION? If you just remain focused, you’ll see the manifestation and fulfillment of destiny ON TIME. How much time are you wasting doing things outside of what God has instructed? STOP WASTING TIME.. Busy work does nothing toward your purpose. Focus on the wrong thing is still a Distraction.
Today's Charge
Take a moment and jot down what God has given you to do, now write down all of the things that you find yourself doing and compare. Do you see how unfocused you’ve been? No judgment, me too but ignorance is not bliss and without confrontation, things will only stay the same. As you navigate your days, submit your To Do Lists to the Lord, and find yourself prioritizing what aligns with your God-given purpose. Ask God to reveal to you your time robbers and intentionally work purpose, don’t allow other voices to shift your focus. Stay locked into His and His alone.
Day 4: Obedience
"If you love me, keep my commands." - John 14:15 (NIV)
Reflection
Let's be real about obedience! For many of us, especially in the modern, fast-paced world, 'obedience' sounds like a throwback to a list of do's and don'ts that feels more like a burden than a blessing. We've often seen it as a path of discomfort, something that's lacking joy and fulfillment. But here's where Jesus flips the script in John's Gospel. He's not just giving us another rule; He's redefining obedience as a love language with God.
This isn't your Sunday School's "obey because you're told to." This is about finding a sweet spot where our actions align with our heart's response to God's love. Jesus is inviting us into a vibe where obedience isn't a heavy word but a natural, joyful reaction to the love we experience from God.
When Jesus talks about obedience, He's getting deep. The original Hebrew term 'Shama', means to actively listen – think about that! It's not about nodding along to a set of instructions; it's about engaging in a dynamic, meaningful convo with God. It's like binge-watching your favorite netflix series, where every scene captures your full attention and emotion, except in this scenario, it's God's narrative and wisdom that you're immersing yourself in.
This understanding of obedience turns it into something beautiful – it's no longer about "should do's" but "want to's" because of our love for God. It's like when you're in a relationship, and you do things out of love, not obligation. That's the kind of obedience Jesus is talking about – it's relational, it's real, and it's all about love.
Today's Charge
Today, choose one small act of obedience that aligns with your love for God. It could be as simple as taking a moment to offer kindness to someone or setting aside time for quiet reflection or prayer. Let this act be a joyful choice, a testament to your willingness to listen and respond to God's guidance in your daily life.
Day 5: Contentment
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4: 12-13 NIV
Reflection
So, I Love watching SpongeBob Squarepants, I know, not exactly what you were expecting to read in a devotional but indulge for a while. I am a creative and my brain is always boggled with what needs to happen next? How does this grow and become bigger and better. I’m always assessing what advancements and limitations I have and how this affects what is before me. Long story short my brain is very much on go all the time. I love SpongeBob because of how mindless it is, it gives my brain a chance to just relax. In watching the show I’m always intrigued with how dedicated Plankton is to figuring out the secret formula to the Krabby Patty. I’m so intrigued because This is how I feel about those that are never bothered by anything. FAM, HOW? I can’t be the only one, have you ever encountered people who are just always good? I mean nothing offsets them, they are always so chill and at ease. But here I am at the Chum Bucket allowing something as simple as clutter to trigger my TICK and unravel me. I found myself even becoming jealous, at times, of people who mastered contentment until I really took the time to digest this passage of text. The first thing that gripped me here was the series of seasons listed, I felt safe and finally not alone. It’s a good feeling to be at the top of the game, needs met, comfortable, vacations paid for, that’s a great feeling. That sends endorphins all throughout your body. You feel accomplished and Proud of yourself when you’re on the mountain. But why don’t you feel that same sense of pride in the valley? I mean did you change with the circumstance and season? How does one truly become content? My brain is now working overtime trying to reinvent a formula that’s already there. Paul said “I Learned”, which means it’s a process of falling and learning to get back up. We want overnight miraculous success like God is a genie and it just doesn’t work like that. God processes you through and to what you asked of him. But then Paul went on to say He learned the secret. I sat up in my chair then because secrets have to be revealed and if Paul had the secret, it meant he had a revelation and a resolve. So I deduced from the text that in order to have the joy from the mountaintop in the valley you needed both a revelation and a resolve. As I looked in the text that the revelation was that nowhere is he concentrated on how he gets out. He immediately introduces the language of Who & What. The revelation is that I never upset myself by focusing on HOW because I don’t know. I don’t know the HOW but I do know the WHO and the What. The Who and The What is truly very simple, here it is. GOD is with Me & For Me!!! Now the Resolve is HE Gives me Strength. The secret formula to the Krabby Patty, I mean to Contentment is the revelation that YOU HAVE GOD and the resolve that no matter where you are in the journey He will constantly & consistently strengthen you. No matter what I face or what season I’m in.. All I know is That He’s With Me and Gone Give Me The Strength to Master this level like I did the last one.
Today's Charge
Practice being in a good mood all day today. Don’t allow anything to cause a shift in your attitude. Let Your Revelation be that GOD IS WITH AND FOR YOU; and Let Your Resolve Be That He will Consistently & Constantly Give You Strength. Say A loud as many times as you need to, in fact use it as an affirmation throughout your day.
Day 6: Wealth
But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.” Deuteronomy 8:18 NIV
Reflection
We are quick to talk about generational curses, we need to be quicker to talk about generational wealth. Further, we need to expand our minds, and not just think about wealth in terms of money, we need to think about wealth in terms of assets, and what is an asset, something of value. As scripture states, through the covenant that our ancestors made with God, we are promised wealth, and that wealth comes in the form of a love of family, health, knowledge, and yes, money. We all have received generational wealth and can grow wealth if we embrace and grow our covenant with God.
Today's Charge
Take time today to appreciate God for the wealth you already have. List some current assets that you’ve been blessed with and ask God to show you how to be a better steward of them. Ask God to give you a strategy on how to be fruitful and multiply.
Day 7: Holiness
Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness, no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:14 NIV
Reflection
Looking out into the world and even the church today, it’s hard to see the LORD. We’ve become engulfed in and entertained by so much that you have to ask the question where is God in all of this? This is by no means an act of judgment but rather a call to assessment. The text says “Without holiness, no one will see the LORD.” Most times I’ve heard this scripture it was in direct correlation to death and Hell but let’s pump our brakes and reconsider. Why is it that we are only concerned with people seeing The Lord in death? What joy is there to see a Lord in death that you were blind to while alive? We can deduce from the text that the key to seeing the Lord is holiness. Before you walk into condemnation about the things you get wrong, that’s not what holiness is. Holiness is not a set of behaviors or a denomination, it’s a way of living. We oftentimes try to perfect the actions and duties of a thing before truly understanding what’s being expected of us. When Scripture stated, “Be Holy for I am Holy.” He simply wasn’t telling us to just imitate his behaviors, instead, He was inviting us to adopt his nature. What is the true nature of God then, you ask? Before you begin listing off the performative traits we’ve seen our Lord and Savior display, I challenge you to sit and process what was just asked. Yes, He is giving, loving, merciful, he is a healer, redeemer, and faithful that promised but the thing we often miss about God is how careful He is. Consider this, God’s healing power didn’t make him impactful, His carefulness did. It was not the mere act, but the thought and intention behind the act. This carefulness caused him to heal on days when healing wasn’t permitted by the law not because he was a rebel but because he was careful enough not to withhold any good thing from his people. God is without flaw, he’s incapable of mistake and error, time and again we try to mimic the perfection of Christ but at the end of the day, we discover that we are still flawed because we’ve not taken on his nature. Well, how is God so perfect? Carefulness requires strategy, it is merely thought and attention to detail. He is the master strategist, he does not see things from an eye-level view, he sees things from a bird’s eye perspective. Because of this he knows and takes the best move not just the next one. We, however, are impulsive people, we do what feels right to do. We allow our emotional state to determine our course of action. The charge holiness gives to all of us is to simply be DIFFERENT. BE CAREFUL. We are not to be a people acting without forethought. Everything we do and the fiber of who we are should be rooted in carefulness. If we do this, we adopt the nature of Christ allowing for people to meet him when they meet us. With carefulness, acts of compassion and mercy become things of ease. These are the things that made people see Jesus. We’ve shown too much of ourselves by doing things our way. Today, I challenge you to try his — Holiness by way of Carefulness. Because If you are not careful, you’ll run the risk of causing others not to see God. I don’t know about you but for me and my house, that’s too big of a risk.
Today's Charge
In your time with God, assess your current way of operations and ask yourself “Who do I show by doing this — Me of Christ? From there, practice being careful with the intent and understanding that the way you live is either going to make people see Him or become oblivious to Him. The choice is yours.
Day 8: Endurance
"Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us." - Hebrews 12:1 (NIV)
Reflection
In the hustle of our everyday lives, the concept of endurance often feels more like a necessity than a choice, but it holds a deeper significance than mere survival. The term 'endurance' originates from the Latin word 'indurare', meaning to harden or to make lasting. This paints a picture of endurance not just as a temporary struggle, but as a process of becoming stronger and more resilient over time.
In Hebrews 12:1, we are encouraged to run with perseverance, implying a journey that's intentional and purposeful. It's not about enduring for endurance's sake. Rather, it's about recognizing that our path, with all its challenges, is part of a meaningful and divinely ordained race.
This perspective transforms our understanding of endurance. It becomes less about a relentless, exhausting marathon and more about a purposeful hike, where each step, even the challenging ones, is integral to reaching a magnificent view. This scripture calls us to embrace our life's journey with a spirit of steadfastness, knowing that the challenges we face are developing us into stronger, more enduring individuals.
With this perspective in mind, we should view endurance not just as weathering storms, but as growing through them. It's about running our unique race with a sense of divine purpose, holding onto faith even in the face of adversity, and finding strength in the knowledge that our endurance is shaping us into more resilient and purpose-driven individuals.
Today's Charge
Today, reflect on an aspect of your life that demands endurance. View this not as a heavy burden but as part of your purposeful journey. Whether it's a difficult project, a personal trial, or a long-term aspiration, approach it with the understanding that this endurance is developing you into a stronger, more disciplined person.
Day 9: Dysfunction
2 Corinthians 5:17 “Therefore, if any man be in Christ he is a new creature. Old things have passed away, and behold all things have become new.” NIV
Reflection
Dysfunction is noted to be any deviation from the normal function of a thing. This means something is not working properly or maybe it’s not operating optimally. Either way, dysfunctional is not the way of the believer. We must understand that the way we function in life matters. How we show up in the world matters to God. The only way to combat dysfunction is to know what it means to be a “new creation”. When you received Christ, that act alone made you new. No longer are you left without options. When you realize you are not who you once was it will empower you to reach for the new. At that point, any behavior resembling the old you is called dysfunction. You have been made new which requires your spiritual man to be functioning properly at all times. We should all be in constant pursuit after the things of God. The only way to function is by His example. My prayer for you and I is that we would be steadfast in our living for Jesus. I pray we are convinced that His way is better than ours and that we agree to rid ourselves of all dysfunction. May our main goal be to look like Jesus.
Today's Charge
This is a hard one so brace yourself. Set aside time today to sit with the Lord. You will need your bible, something to write with and maybe even a kleenex or two. As you sit to complete this charge, begin with praying to the Lord and confessing areas of dysfunction in your life. Remember that dysfunction can be just continuing to be the old you or things you have accepted as “who you are” that are contrary to who God is. As you confess those things pray that God gives you a true renewing of the mind regarding these things. This is where tears may flow because as you understand how those things separate you from God or cause you to misrepresent him it will bring emotion. After you process the emotion, ask God for divine strategy, guidance from the Holy Spirit on how to overcome these areas of dysfunction. Understand that this work you are starting today will have implications for the remainder of the year and years to come. Take note so that when you need you can refer back.
Day 10: Confrontation
2 Timothy 1:7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love and self-discipline.”
Reflection
The Gospel is and has always been a gospel of confrontation. This means there’s nothing about the gospel that resembles avoidance. Jesus was all about confrontation whether it was dealing with Pharisees or demonic principalities. He never shied away from confrontation. This took a boldness and confidence only found in God. He knew who he was and he knew why he had to be that way. We should all take his lead in living our lives with boldness and confidence. There will always be things in life that will test your faith. The way you handle tests and trials has to be with boldness. You will be given opportunities to confront opposition and to show a Godly resolve. More importantly, you will constantly be confronting things in you that have to be addressed. Confrontation is important because this is how we overcome and grow. May your life be a life full of opportunities to get better everyday as you continue to grow in God. Your days of avoidance are over.
Today's Charge
Take a moment today to go deep into thought. This may take a while so make sure you schedule this at a time in the day that is best for you. Pray and ask God to reveal to you issues, problems or challenges that you don’t realize you are avoiding. As you identify these areas, allow God to speak to you about how you need to confront them. Do you need to make a call or invite someone to the table for a hard conversation? Make a plan for at least one of them. Be sure to add completion dates for yourself to keep you accountable. Ask God for strategy and direction in every aspect of the confrontation and as Nike says “ Just do it!”
Day 11: Comparison
You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother’s womb. Thank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous—how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! Psalm 139: 13-17 NLT
Reflection
Gospel Music Artist & Pastor Travis Greene penned a top charting song about God’s intentionality. “He’s Intentional” was a chant ringing loudly in services and concerts across the world. What I found interesting is that the intentionality of God was celebrated in every place except the mirror. Most people have a poor view of themselves and question why they look the way they look, why they are the way they are and why their lives are in the condition it’s in. So much time is spent enamoring what we want and want to be that it’s hard to celebrate what is. As we look in the mirror we develop complexes about ourselves because of what we see in others. We begin to judge ourselves negatively comparing what we have to what the next person does. We judge things like our noses, our height and body type, skin complexion and head shape. We form opinions of self worth and beauty on the basis of what society and our lack of confidence deemed the standard. In doing this we question God’s intentionality and ultimately accuse Him of missing the mark with us. We stand in the mirror and we tell God “you got this wrong, you didn’t do this right” when in truth, everything about you is intentional. You are supposed to be the color you are, the height you are. Your life is your life on purpose and God’s intention for it should be celebrated. When you subscribe to comparison what you tell God is that his creativity peaked when he made them and he gave you the scraps. You tell God that he is a one hit wonder and that you would have been better off as a replica instead of a custom model. You do yourself a disservice when you try to use the blueprint for someone else’s life for your own. God does not do anything by happenstance. He knows every intricate detail about you because he hand picked, everything God does has purpose. Resolve today that God made no mistake in making you different. This is not a license to be mediocre and complacent. I’m by no means not telling you to improve or become better, what I am saying is stop trying to conform into someone else’s likeness and image. He created you the way he did on purpose so Be You on Purpose.
Today's Charge
Spend some time in the mirror today and honestly admit out loud what opinions you have of yourself and then denounce them. Say aloud “God did not make any mistakes concerning me.” In your prayer time today, ask God to help you see what He sees. Ask Him to help you love yourself the way he loves you. Everything you don’t like, celebrate and tell yourself “God did this and is proud of His decision.” When you learn to love you for real, you’ll stop using the appearance of the next as the basis of who and what you are. You’ll finally be able to walk in the confidence God gave YOU!
Day 12: Hunger
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled." - Matthew 5:6 NIV
Reflection
In a world where our feeds are constantly updated with new desires and distractions, the concept of 'hungering' for righteousness invites us to a deeper, more meaningful pursuit. The original meaning of 'hunger' in this context goes beyond physical craving; it's about an intense longing or yearning. And when Jesus talks about being 'filled,' He isn't just referring to the satisfaction of a need. Instead, it's about being fulfilled in a profound, spiritual sense – experiencing a deep sense of contentment and purpose that comes from aligning with God's will.
This beatitude challenges us to look beyond our immediate gratifications and to cultivate a deep-seated desire for a life that mirrors God's justice and truth. It's like channeling the passion and drive we have for our personal ambitions into a commitment to living righteously. It's about transforming our hunger for success, recognition, or even love, into a hunger for embodying God's values in all aspects of our lives.
In this digital age, being 'filled' with righteousness might also mean using our online presence to spread positivity, engage in meaningful dialogues about justice, and stand up for what's right, not just in the digital world but in our real-life communities too.
Today's Charge
Let's kick off this new year by asking ourselves how we can feed our hunger for righteousness in practical, everyday ways. Pick an action for today that aligns with this pursuit – it could be as simple as sharing an inspiring message with your online community, participating in a local community service project, or spending time in meditation or prayer. Let this act be a step towards fulfilling your spiritual hunger, a way to live out the values you stand for. Remember, true fulfillment comes not from external achievements but from aligning our deepest desires with the pursuit of righteousness.
Day 13: Tearing Down Idols
”I will destroy your idols and your sacred stones from among you; you will no longer bow down to the work of your hands.“ Micah 5:13 NIV
Reflection
Idols serve as objects of our worth-ship (worship). Idols are formed when creation worships creation rather than creation worshiping the creator, in which we must restore the order. When idols are erected in our lives it is us taking the worship and glory that is due to God and giving it to material possessions, ambitions, relationships, or even unhealthy habits. In order for us to tear down idols we must identify and dismantle anything in our lives that takes precedence over our relationship with God. That will require us to have a mature level of self awareness to identify these idols. You will never conquer what you are unwilling to confront and your deliverance lies on the basis of you making an intentional decision to confront those idols. It is through prayer, reflection, and intentional choices, we seek to prioritize God above all else, allowing His presence to fill the spaces in our lives once occupied by these idols. Often times it is not an immediate result but rather a continuous process of us surrendering and aligning our hearts with his will and breaking free from the things that hinder our true connection with God.
Today's Charge
Take a moment today to examine your life. While you may not physically bow down to objects, you may find that your life is led by other ideas and influences rather than being led by God. As you identify potential idols, take a moment for prayer to ask God to help remove those idols as well as you creating a plan to remove them.
Day 14: Finishing
I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building. 1 Corinthians 3:6-9 NIV
Reflection
I’ve often wondered why it takes me so long to start something like it’s really bad. I will sit and sit with something constantly putting it off until the last minute. It wasn’t until I was writing this, at the last minute that I got the answer. Are you ready for it? Here it is — FEAR. But fear of what? — The Fear of How It Ends. Are you telling me that I’m in my own way??? That a figment of my imagination regarding something that’s not even any of my business, is holding me back from taking the step necessary for God to provide the increase? God has given me a simple instruction — Plant it but because I grow concerned about what it’s going to become, is it going to work, what is this going to make me look like. I Assume a responsibility that is not mine. The OUTCOME IS NOT OUR RESPONSIBILITY! HOW it works out if it works out at all IS NONE OF YOUR CONCERN. Our only responsibility in this streamline of events is to play the part given to you by God — Planter or Waterer. If you are a planter, all you are responsible for is planting the seeds. You seek God about Place, Time and Season. If you are a waterer, you just water. You seek God about the quantity & quality of the POUR. The problem comes along when God tells us to plant, we ask “well when and where is the water coming from.” Not realizing that when you water it before you plant it you kill its chances of taking root. You end it before it begins. Why are you concerned about the water when your hand is full of seed? This is the cause of worry. You concern yourselves with and about things outside of your realm and you begin to stress and be anxious about how it ends. Worry is the byproduct of misguided focus!! Anxiety is the result of Mismanaged time. While stress is mismanaged pressure(How much you took on or allowed at once). That’s why it is unGodly.. Worrying promotes Disobedience… because as long as you waste time pondering whether it’s gonna work out or ruin your life, you’ll never move to do what you’re actually supposed to do. God only wants ADD To You, But This concern of how it ends has only Come to TAKE From You!! My dad preached a message when I was younger titled “I Got This, You Get That”. Do What God instructed you to do, THAT’s Your responsibility. God will always do his part. This fueled Paul’s resolve which made him Confident in THIS VERY THING.. That HE, Not ME, that Has begun a GOOD Work In Me Will Complete It!! The Solution is the resolve that God Is way too Calculated and Careful to let me slip through the cracks… Even when I don’t understand or like the situation I'm in.. I'm not trying to figure God OUT… I’m Confident in God’s Sovereignty.. We can’t LOVE His HAND but despise his Sovereignty. Stress & Anxiety are not your portion The Outcome is Not Your Responsibility. Let God do the finishing, You just take the steps and play your part.
HAKUNA MATATA!!
Today's Charge
Seek God in your prayer time about your role? Ask God to develop you for the role? Ask for the grace to Trust Him More. Whenever stress comes up, speak out loud “The Outcome is not my Responsibility”
Day 15: Worship
"Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks." - John 4:23 (NIV)
Reflection
In our always-on, always-connected world, 'worship' can sometimes seem like just another task on our list of spiritual duties. Often, we confine it to Sunday services or specific ceremonial events. However, Jesus introduces a profound shift in how we view worship in this biblical narrative. He transforms it from a ritual or tradition into something much more dynamic and authentic.
Grasping the biblical essence of 'worship' is vital in this context. Originating from the Greek word 'proskuneo', the term 'worship' means to 'kiss towards' or bow down in reverence. It symbolizes not only a physical act of adoration but also a deeply spiritual form of expressing honor and submission.
In John 4:23, Jesus is redefining worship for us. He's moving it away from the traditional notions of rituals and locations to something far more personal and authentic. It's about engaging with God in a way that's as real and as raw as the conversations we have with our closest friends. Imagine worship as a 24/7 live stream, where our actions, thoughts, and feelings continuously broadcast our adoration and respect for God.
Jesus is inviting us into a style of worship that's spontaneous, genuine, and interwoven into the fabric of our everyday lives. It's like expressing our love for a favorite artist not just by attending their concerts but by integrating their art into every aspect of our life. Similarly, worship becomes a constant, living expression of our love and reverence for God, going beyond Sunday services to become a real-time, ongoing experience.
Today's Charge
Today, find a way to express your adoration for God that resonates with you personally. This could be through creative expression like art or music, engaging in deep, meaningful conversations about faith, or even by serving others in a way that reflects God's love. Let your chosen act of worship be a genuine, heartfelt demonstration of your reverence for God, a symbol of your ongoing dialogue with Him. Remember, true worship is about living in a way that continuously honors and cherishes our relationship with God, every moment of every day.
Day 16: Generosity
Proverbs 11:25 “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.”
Reflection
We should all count it a privilege and honor to be made in the image and likeness of God. This simply means our lives should mirror what we know to be true about God. One of the dominant characteristics that we must learn to model is generosity. We serve a very generous God and the expectation is for us to be a generous people. Not only should generosity come from the heart, but it should also be in response to how grateful we are for God’s goodness toward us. Generosity is not just about money. Oftentimes being generous can look like just being kind and thoughtful of others. My prayer for us is that we not only learn to be generous people, but that generosity becomes a part of who we are as believers. We are generous because the God we serve is generous to us all. He gives so we give. May this be a way of life for us all in Jesus name.
Today's Charge
So this is an easy one. Before you start your day ask God to give you the opportunity to be generous in some way. As you go throughout your day listen closely for the voice of God. When he instructs you, be obedient and in your act of generosity express His image and His likeness.
Day 17: Using your Gift
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10
Reflection
Who doesn’t like receiving gifts? A new watch, a nice pair of heels, the latest Apple product, or a name brand purse. If we all are completely honest we all love to be on the receiving end of gifts. When we receive gifts, we are not merely receiving an item, but rather a person's love through the form of a gift. When receiving gifts from people it is for our personal consumption, but when we receive gifts from God it is not so much about what we have gained in a gift more than it is about how much of this gift can I give to people.
God has given each of us our own unique gifts. Some of us may be gifted in speech, some may be gifted in administration, some may be gifted with tongues and prophecy, while some may be gifted with a contagious smile. We all must find resolve with this thought that no matter how big or small we may view our gift, nor how enamored we may become with our gift, that our gift is not for us but rather for those we are called to serve.
The heart of this scripture here is on purposeful and selfless service, acknowledging that our gifts are not merely for personal gain, but are instruments through which we can express God's diverse and boundless grace. As stewards of God's grace, we are called to manage these gifts faithfully through which God’s love, mercy, and compassion can flow into the lives of those around us. May we be encouraged to intentionally and graciously use our God-given gifts for the people we are called to serve, becoming vessels of his love in a world that so desperately needs it.
Today's Charge
As you navigate through your day, consider what gifts you have received from God and how you can use those gifts to express God’s love and grace to those around you.
Day 18: Spiritual Warfare
Ephesians 6:10- 13: 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Reflection
We get up, dressed, and ready for the day. Some of us take an extended time to ensure every hair is in place; we look amazing with the perfectly selected outfit-matching accessories and smell good with our favorite fragrance. A quick check in the mirror, and we are off to our day. Some of us roll out of bed with 15 minutes flat to brush our teeth, wash our face, throw on something, and get out the door with the extra energy from the 30-45 minutes we saved to get more sleep by getting ready quickly. Some of us get to work only after having breakfast, grabbing coffee, or engaging in our rituals of choice that prep us for the day. We do all of these things for ourselves, and although I know for some of us, devotional time is a part of these routines, in Ephesians 6, God instructs us to do something in particular. He tells us to put on the armor of God so that we can take a stand against the devil’s schemes.
Family, I am afraid that sometimes we forget that the devil has schemes and that he launches them daily whether you have followed the Lord’s instructions. The scripture goes on to describe where the schemes of the devil come from - rulers and authorities in the powers of the dark world and spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. The scripture then doubles down on the previous instructions and again says to put on the whole armor of God so that when this evil comes - not if it does- you can stand your ground and keep standing.
Spiritual warfare involves not only fighting the devil but also preparing for his attacks. So, just as you brush your teeth, comb your hair, or prepare for the day, I encourage you to put on the armor of God daily as an act of Spiritual Warfare.
Today's Charge
Today add to your existing or create a daily devotional time that you can maintain. As you schedule this time make you a poster, sign or card that has the Armor of God on it and daily throughout 2024 as you prepare for your days put on the full armor of God as an act of Spiritual Warfare.
Lord I put on the full armor,
- The belt of truth. May your truth rule in my heart and be in my mind and on my lips today.
- The breastplate of righteousness. Apart from You there is no righteousness, but through Jesus I have been “born again” and made righteous in Your sight.
- Feet fitted with the preparation that comes from the Gospel of peace. May I reflect the Gospel in my words and actions, that through me, with my every encounter, others may be drawn one step closer to You.
- The shield of faith. May I take You at Your word concerning promises about the present and future—promises of everlasting love, abundant life, and so much more.
- The helmet of salvation. Remind me that nothing can separate me from Your love and that I’ve been saved by grace.
- The sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. May Your Holy Spirit reign in my life and bring to my mind just the right Bible verses to be in my heart and on my lips. May I be “filled with the Spirit” and ready with Scripture as You were, Jesus, when the devil tempted You.
- Finally, keep me in an attitude of prayer . Remind me to “pray in the Spirit on all occasions.” Cause me to be alert and always praying for the saints; to be joyful and to give thanks in everything.
Day 19: Relationships
1 Peter 4:8 Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. NIV 1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. NIV
Reflection
You may have heard it said a time or two that Relationships are the commodity of the Kingdom. This means relationships are essential and of value to the Kingdom of God. GOD in His being is father, son, and holy spirit. Because Jesus died, God is now intangible, meaning we cannot physically touch him, and because of this, he has emphasized relationships. Relationships allow us, through others, to experience God tangibly. As his spirit lives inside of us, we can show his love and kindness, share his love through hugs, and even share his words with others. In 1st Peter 4, scripture tells us how to be in a relationship with others by commanding us to love each other, not just to love to love deeply. Why, you ask? Because again, as we love each other deeply in a relationship, we display an attribute of God in the covering of sin and fault. As we walk in and with God daily, let his character be manifested in us through our relationships. May we love one another, build each other up, and allow others to experience the tangibleness of God through us.
Today's Charge
Today, ask God to speak to you about someone who needs to experience him tangibly. Ask God to use you and allow you to be the hands and feet of Jesus to bless someone. Commit in your heart to start a new relationship with them in which you display the love of God, but be diligent and intensely careful to bless and not cause harm or disappointment unnecessarily. As you do this, also take time, evaluate your current relationships, ask God to help you in your interactions with others, and display more of his character.
Day 20: Radical Individualism
Psalms 133 “Behold how good and pleasant it is for God’s people to dwell together in unity.”
Reflection
Our current context does not lead us to believe in or adhere to David’s sentiments concerning unity. However, all throughout scripture we see examples of God’s intent for his people to be together as “His” people. Radical Individualism has been the standard for many generations but is even more prominent today. Everyone wants to be “self made” or “self sufficient” when it comes to any type of success. The truth of the matter is though, in and of ourselves we are limited. We cannot do everything or be everything alone. We all need supernatural assistance to live out our God given potential. That potential is often realized in the company and collaboration of others. God’s blessing is in the unity of his people. In John 17:11, Jesus is praying for his disciples and he says “Father make them one as we are one”. This lets me know that there’s always been a premium placed on unity. My prayer is that we all come into the knowledge and agreement of what it means to be together. May God send you people to collaborate with and do life with. We cast down the spirit of radical individualism and we raise up the standard of unity. God will give you people for your life. Amen!
Today's Charge
In your prayer time today ask God to bring to your attention areas in which you have attempted in the past to go at alone. Recite the Psalm again and ask God to illuminate people he desires for you to connect and collaborate with. But be careful. Often he will show us people we would have never selected for ourselves. As you trust his sovereignty, take a step and reach out to one. It may not be time to connect yet, but take a step to open the door.
Day 21: The Next Generation
“We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the LORD, about his power and his mighty wonders.” Psalms 78:4 NLT
Refelection
One thing we must consider is that every person with a pulse has a purpose. That thought is not exclusive simply for adults only, but rather for every living person being a child or an adult. Of course we must understand that it will take children time to really process and understand what their purpose may be, due to maturation, we must not neglect the investment we are to make in the next generation.
Here is a real thing that we must consider. Pause. Take a deep breath. There is no such thing as a “junior” demon or devil, but in that same vein there is no such thing as a “junior” Jesus or Holy Spirit. That being the case, the next generation has the ability to experience supernatural power and grow their faith even at a young age. While technology and social media continues to grow and takes on a vital role in our lives today, we take the risk of the next generation being discipled through various secular ideas and ideologies if we are not doing our job of leading them.
It is through our history and journey with the Lord from which we share our experiences with the next generation in hopes that it would create a desire within them to learn of the Lord and develop their own relationship with him .The next generation is the future of the world. They are our next entrepreneurs, doctors, lawyers, teachers, pastors, prophets, and leaders. May we never forsake our responsibility to disciple and cover the next generation.
Today's Charge
As you go through your day today spend time in prayer praying for the next generation. Pray for their physical health, mental health, emotional health, and that their hearts be awakened to the call of God in their lives. Also consider what young person you have in your life and what role you can play in assisting their spiritual development.
