A Little God Time for Men E-Book

BroadStreet Publishing Group LLC

• Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2022

Seitenzahl: 421

Beschreibung

We have the incredibly important role of leading younger generations through turbulent waters, modeling integrity in relationships, and providing foundations for wise decision-making. There are times we might feel like we've got things all figured out, and other times we feel unworthy of our great responsibilities. A Little God Time for Men is designed to help you meditate on Scripture, read thought-provoking messages, and communicate with God through prayer. It will challenge, equip, and encourage you to till the soil set before you. Time spent with God empowers you to be a man of character, strength, and leadership. Be marked by the words written here and endeavor to be the man God has called you to be.

Leseprobe

BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.

Savage, Minnesota, USA

Broadstreetpublishing.com

A Little God Time for Men

© 2022 by BroadStreet Publishing®

978-1-4245-6495-8

978-1-4245-6496-5 (eBook)

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (NCV) are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NRSV) are taken from the New Revised Standard Version Bible, copyright 1989, Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NKJV) are taken from the New King James Version®. Copyright © 1982 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (TPT) are taken from The Passion Translation®. Copyright © 2017, 2018 by Passion & Fire Ministries, Inc. Used by permission of BroadStreet Publishing. All rights reserved.

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22 23 24 25 26 27 28 7 6 5 4 3 2 1

Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.

EPHESIANS 6:10 NLT

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

JANUARY

JANUARY 1: PRIORITIES

JANUARY 2: BLESSING

JANUARY 3: CHANGING LIVES

JANUARY 4: WORK SO HARD

JANUARY 5: CONTINUE TO LIVE

JANUARY 6: DON’T GET CAUGHT

JANUARY 7: NEW NATURE

JANUARY 8: CONTENT

JANUARY 9: WITNESSES

JANUARY 10: GOD-BREATHED

JANUARY 11: OBEDIENCE

JANUARY 12: DOING GOOD

JANUARY 13: ADDING WORDS

JANUARY 14: POINTING

JANUARY 15: INFINITELY MORE

JANUARY 16: BIGGER

JANUARY 17: MERCY THROUGH MENTORSHIP

JANUARY 18: NOTHING WITHOUT

JANUARY 19: WEARY

JANUARY 20: COMFORT

JANUARY 21: WORSHIP THE SPLENDOR

JANUARY 22: IMITATE

JANUARY 23: FULLNESS

JANUARY 24: YOUNG EXAMPLES

JANUARY 25: CALLED UP

JANUARY 26: SAFETY IN NUMBERS

JANUARY 27: WARNING AND PATIENCE

JANUARY 28: TELL THEM

JANUARY 29: EVERYTHING YOU DO

JANUARY 30: REST

JANUARY 31: KNOW YOUR FLOCK

FEBRUARY

FEBRUARY 1: ACT JUSTLY

FEBRUARY 2: MERCY

FEBRUARY 3: WALKING HUMBLY

FEBRUARY 4: SELF-SACRIFICE

FEBRUARY 5: MOST IMPORTANT LESSON

FEBRUARY 6: IDENTITY

FEBRUARY 7: DON’T SHRINK

FEBRUARY 8: HONORING PARENTS

FEBRUARY 9: HOPE

FEBRUARY 10: COURAGE

FEBRUARY 11: ENCOURAGE

FEBRUARY 12: EAT MEAT

FEBRUARY 13: THE CLOSEST FISH

FEBRUARY 14: DISCIPLINE WITH LOVE

FEBRUARY 15: DIVINE DISCIPLINE

FEBRUARY 16: STAY ALERT

FEBRUARY 17: JUST ONE GENERATION

FEBRUARY 18: WASHING FEET

FEBRUARY 19: DISCERNMENT

FEBRUARY 20: PHYSICAL TOUCH

FEBRUARY 21: LONG-TERM PLANS

FEBRUARY 22: PREPARATION

FEBRUARY 23: WELL DONE

FEBRUARY 24: STAND STRONG

FEBRUARY 25: WHAT YOU WEAR

FEBRUARY 26: DEVOTED TO PRAYER

FEBRUARY 27: EVERY OPPORTUNITY

FEBRUARY 28: REPRESENTATIVE

MARCH

MARCH 1: STRONGER TOGETHER

MARCH 2: IT’S WHAT’S INSIDE

MARCH 3: COMPLETELY NEW

MARCH 4: STRONGHOLD

MARCH 5: WORKING IN YOU

MARCH 6: PEACE AND STRENGTH

MARCH 7: WISDOM

MARCH 8: GROWING GOOD

MARCH 9: SPEAKING LIFE

MARCH 10: CHOSEN

MARCH 11: HOPE

MARCH 12: DEPENDENCE IN CHRIST

MARCH 13: OVERCOMING PROCRASTINATION

MARCH 14: TEACH WITH TRAJECTORY

MARCH 15: CHARACTER

MARCH 16: IDENTITY

MARCH 17: STOREHOUSE OF WEALTH

MARCH 18: GRATEFUL HEARTS

MARCH 19: RESPECT

MARCH 20: SUPREMACY OF CHRIST

MARCH 21: LOVE THE CHURCH

MARCH 22: TRANSPARENCY

MARCH 23: FOLLOW IN HIS FOOTSTEPS

MARCH 24: RELAT IONSHIPS

MARCH 25: HOLINESS

MARCH 26: GROW IN MATURITY

MARCH 27: SUBMIT TO MENTORSHIP

MARCH 28: TRAINING FOR A MARATHON

MARCH 29: SEARCH THE INTENTIONS

MARCH 30: THANKFULNESS

MARCH 31: HOLINESS THROUGH GOD

APRIL

APRIL 1: MARINATE IN THE WORD

APRIL 2: UNITING LOVE

APRIL 3: ANXIETY STEALS

APRIL 4: CHRIST-CENTERED AIM

APRIL 5: DISRUPTIVE PERVERSION

APRIL 6: LOVE IS A PERSON

APRIL 7: RIGHTEOUSNESS OF CHRIST

APRIL 8: MANNER OF LIFE

APRIL 9: SUFFERING

APRIL 10: HEART POSTURE

APRIL 11: MORE OF HIM

APRIL 12: COSTLY LOVE

APRIL 13: ENDLESS SUPPLY

APRIL 14: DEBT OF LOVE

APRIL 15: FUEL OF LOVE

APRIL 16: OUR PROVIDER

APRIL 17: PEACE

APRIL 18: THE GOD WHO ANSWERS

APRIL 19: COUNTING OUR BLESSINGS

APRIL 20: GUIDANCE

APRIL 21: COMPASSION, MERCY, GRACE

APRIL 22: STRONG AND BRAVE

APRIL 23: SUCCESS

APRIL 24: VICTORY

APRIL 25: SIGHT OF VISION

APRIL 26: PRAISE

APRIL 27: DELIVERANCE

APRIL 28: EXPERIENCE

APRIL 29: PREPARING FOR BLESSING

APRIL 30: FAITH OR DOUBT

MAY

MAY 1: FEAR

MAY 2: THE LORD’S PRAYER

MAY 3: FAMILY WORSHIP

MAY 4: VISIONARY PRAYER

MAY 5: RECREATED

MAY 6: WALKING IN LOVE

MAY 7: POWER

MAY 8: ARMOR AND STRENGTH

MAY 9: LIVING BY FAITH

MAY 10: FAITH IN GOD’S PLAN

MAY 11: MENTORING

MAY 12: WISDOM FROM ABOVE

MAY 13: STEADFAST

MAY 14: FAMILY

MAY 15: FUTURE

MAY 16: SHOWING GOD’S LOVE

MAY 17: OVERCOMERS

MAY 18: SACRAMENTAL PEOPLE

MAY 19: FEARLESS

MAY 20: CONFIDENCE

MAY 21: DREAMING AGAIN

MAY 22: LAUGHING AGAIN

MAY 23: FINDING HOPE AGAIN

MAY 24: LIGHT SHINES IN

MAY 25: WANDERING SOUL

MAY 26: FOLLOWING FOR OTHERS

MAY 27: IN MY PLACE

MAY 28: GENEROUS WITH IDENTITY

MAY 29: I NEED MORE

MAY 30: SAFE AND SECURE

MAY 31: IDENTITY AND CALLING

JUNE

JUNE 1: COMMITTED

JUNE 2: HUMILITY

JUNE 3: OPEN UP

JUNE 4: WORKERS

JUNE 5: RESET MY SOUL

JUNE 6: TRAINED EARS

JUNE 7: STRENGTH

JUNE 8: GUIDANCE

JUNE 9: TRUST IN THE LORD

JUNE 10: USE MY WORDS

JUNE 11: SURRENDER

JUNE 12: BE MY LIGHT

JUNE 13: NO LONGER ANXIOUS

JUNE 14: LOVE

JUNE 15: COMPASSION

JUNE 16: LIFE WITH CHRIST

JUNE 17: COURAGE

JUNE 18: CREATIVITY

JUNE 19: PREPARATION

JUNE 20: COMMITMENT

JUNE 21: PRESENCE IN STORMS

JUNE 22: JUST BELIEVE

JUNE 23: LIKE A CHILD

JUNE 24: SERVANT LEADERSHIP

JUNE 25: GRACE

JUNE 26: SACRIFICE

JUNE 27: ROUTINES

JUNE 28: THE PRESENCE

JUNE 29: BEING CONTENT

JUNE 30: TRUSTING GOD TO SUPPLY

JULY

JULY 1: THE OFF SWITCH

JULY 2: YOUR CROSS

JULY 3: AFFIRMATION

JULY 4: OUR FATHER

JULY 5: HALLOWED BE

JULY 6: YOUR WILL BE DONE

JULY 7: DAILY BREAD

JULY 8: FORGIVE AS

JULY 9: LEAD US NOT

JULY 10: BE ONE

JULY 11: PROOF

JULY 12: OUR HELPER

JULY 13: ONE BODY

JULY 14: LEGACY

JULY 15: SET ON

JULY 16: HEARTBROKEN

JULY 17: OPPOSITION

JULY 18: CHRIST IN ME

JULY 19: STATUS SYMBOL

JULY 20: FREEDOM

JULY 21: INVITATION

JULY 22: EVANGELISM

JULY 23: QUALIFYING

JULY 24: CHALLENGE AND GROWTH

JULY 25: DESIRING GOD

JULY 26: GET AWAY

JULY 27: THE CALLING OF WORK

JULY 28: HIDING

JULY 29: HEAL ME

JULY 30: NEEDING JESUS

JULY 31: STEP OUT IN FAITH

AUGUST

AUGUST 1: PARTICIPATING

AUGUST 2: EMBRACING ABUNDANCE

AUGUST 3: A NEW COMMANDMENT

AUGUST 4: TO ALL PEOPLE

AUGUST 5: GROWTH

AUGUST 6: GIFT OF GRACE

AUGUST 7: PURPOSE

AUGUST 8: TRUE POWER

AUGUST 9: FOCUS

AUGUST 10: VISION

AUGUST 11: SHEPHERDING

AUGUST 12: GOSPEL MESSENGERS

AUGUST 13: CEASE STRIVING

AUGUST 14: DISCIPLESHIP

AUGUST 15: FOCUS ON JESUS

AUGUST 16: REJOICING

AUGUST 17: MODELING

AUGUST 18: APPROVAL

AUGUST 19: THANKFULNESS

AUGUST 20: SELF-CONTROL

AUGUST 21: JUSTICE

AUGUST 22: LISTENING

AUGUST 23: PRAYER

AUGUST 24: FREEDOM IN CHRIST

AUGUST 25: CONFIDENCE IN GOD

AUGUST 26: PASSION

AUGUST 27: MENTORSHIP

AUGUST 28: LEADERSHIP

AUGUST 29: FATHERHOOD

AUGUST 30: BUILDING A FOUNDATION

AUGUST 31: MOTIVATION

SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER 1: ACCESS TO GOD

SEPTEMBER 2: EFFECTIVE MINISTRY

SEPTEMBER 3: FAITHFULNESS

SEPTEMBER 4: PERSONAL DEVOTION

SEPTEMBER 5: LOVING GOD

SEPTEMBER 6: SERVICE

SEPTEMBER 7: EASTER

SEPTEMBER 8: LIVING UP TO OUR WORTH

SEPTEMBER 9: ATTITUDE

SEPTEMBER 10: GODLINESS

SEPTEMBER 11: STRENGTH IN WEAKNESS

SEPTEMBER 12: THANKFULNESS

SEPTEMBER 13: GOD IS GREATER

SEPTEMBER 14: LEADERSHIP

SEPTEMBER 15: CONTENTMENT

SEPTEMBER 16: GRACE AND FORGIVENESS

SEPTEMBER 17: DELIGHT IN GOD

SEPTEMBER 18: GOD’S WILL

SEPTEMBER 19: REMOVE THE CLUTTER

SEPTEMBER 20: GENEROSITY

SEPTEMBER 21: MONEY

SEPTEMBER 22: PROVIDENCE

SEPTEMBER 23: PERSISTENT PRAYER

SEPTEMBER 24: KINGDOM OF GOD

SEPTEMBER 25: POSSESSIONS

SEPTEMBER 26: LEAD THROUGH SERVING

SEPTEMBER 27: INVESTMENT

SEPTEMBER 28: A LIFE OF SACRIFICE

SEPTEMBER 29: THE HOLY SPIRIT

SEPTEMBER 30: FEAR OR TRUST

OCTOBER

OCTOBER 1: COMPARISON

OCTOBER 2: COMMUNITY

OCTOBER 3: SHAME

OCTOBER 4: TRUST

OCTOBER 5: TRANSFORMATION

OCTOBER 6: A STRONG FOUNDATION

OCTOBER 7: FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

OCTOBER 8: PROCESS

OCTOBER 9: ATTITUDE

OCTOBER 10: PARTNERSHIP

OCTOBER 11: BRINGING PEACE

OCTOBER 12: DOUBT

OCTOBER 13: ANGER

OCTOBER 14: ACTION

OCTOBER 15: LOVE DEEPLY

OCTOBER 16: HOSPITALITY

OCTOBER 17: HUMILITY OR TRUST

OCTOBER 18: WORLDLINESS

OCTOBER 19: PAIN AND JOY

OCTOBER 20: NEWNESS

OCTOBER 21: SMALL BEGINNINGS

OCTOBER 22: FAVORITES

OCTOBER 23: LISTEN

OCTOBER 24: TOTAL LOVE

OCTOBER 25: COMMIT

OCTOBER 26: REPEAT

OCTOBER 27: PUT ON

OCTOBER 28: WRITE

OCTOBER 29: BE STRONG

OCTOBER 30: WONDERFULLY MADE

OCTOBER 31: GENTLENESS

NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER 1: BE REAL

NOVEMBER 2: BE PASSIONATE

NOVEMBER 3: BE BRAVE

NOVEMBER 4: BE LOYAL

NOVEMBER 5: BE UNDIVIDED

NOVEMBER 6: GET YOUR HANDS DIRTY

NOVEMBER 7: GET READY

NOVEMBER 8: BE FOCUSED

NOVEMBER 9: KEEP GOING

NOVEMBER 10: THE WORD

NOVEMBER 11: THE MAIN THING

NOVEMBER 12: DON’T FOLLOW THE CROWD

NOVEMBER 13: GET THE JOB DONE

NOVEMBER 14: EYES ON THE PRIZE

NOVEMBER 15: BROTHERHOOD

NOVEMBER 16: EVERYTHING YOU NEED

NOVEMBER 17: THE AMAZING NEWS

NOVEMBER 18: NEW THINGS

NOVEMBER 19: WELCOME TO THE FAMILY

NOVEMBER 20: JESUS, MESSIAH

NOVEMBER 21: STORYTELLING

NOVEMBER 22: SENT

NOVEMBER 23: FEAR NOT

NOVEMBER 24: GIVING THANKS

NOVEMBER 25: GREED

NOVEMBER 26: RELATIONSHIP RESTORATION

NOVEMBER 27: FAITHFULLY COMMITTED

NOVEMBER 28: AFFIRMATION OF OTHERS

NOVEMBER 29: WORSHIP

NOVEMBER 30: ACCESS TO THE THRONE

DECEMBER

DECEMBER 1: PIERCING THE HEART

DECEMBER 2: INTEGRITY

DECEMBER 3: SUFFICIENCY OF GOD

DECEMBER 4: FORGIVENESS

DECEMBER 5: CALLED TO PREACH

DECEMBER 6: DEVOTION TO JESUS

DECEMBER 7: SHELTER AND STRENGTH

DECEMBER 8: LONGING FOR GOD

DECEMBER 9: TIME WITH GOD

DECEMBER 10: ENCOURAGEMENT MATTERS

DECEMBER 11: SALVATION THROUGH CHRIST

DECEMBER 12: INTERCESSION

DECEMBER 13: EQUIPPING

DECEMBER 14: SAVED BY MERCY

DECEMBER 15: RITES OF PASSAGE

DECEMBER 16: PASS THE FAITH

DECEMBER 17: BOLD FAITH

DECEMBER 18: INTEGRITY

DECEMBER 19: FORGIVENESS

DECEMBER 20: DISCIPLINES

DECEMBER 21: FILLED TO OVERFLOWING

DECEMBER 22: GOD IS FAITHFUL

DECEMBER 23: GIVING GOOD GIFTS

DECEMBER 24: A BIGGER STORY

DECEMBER 25: THIS CHILD

DECEMBER 26: RESTORING OTHERS

DECEMBER 27: POINTING OUT JESUS

DECEMBER 28: FAITH

DECEMBER 29: MISSIONS

DECEMBER 30: UNITY

DECEMBER 31: GOD IS NEAR

INTRODUCTION

We have the incredibly important role of leading younger generations through turbulent waters, modeling integrity in relationships, and providing foundations for wise decision-making. There are times we might feel like we’ve got things all figured out, and other times we feel unworthy of our great responsibilities.

A Little God Time for Men is designed to help you meditate on Scripture, read thought-provoking messages, and communicate with God through prayer. It will challenge, equip, and encourage you to till the soil set before you.

Time spent with God empowers you to be a man of character, strength, and leadership. Be marked by the words written here and endeavor to be the man God has called you to be.

JANUARY

God is our refuge and strength, Always ready to help in times of trouble.

PSALM 46:1 NLT

 

JANUARY 1

PRIORITIES

All glory to God our Father forever and ever!

PHILIPPIANS 4:20 NLT

The temptation we men struggle to overcome is the need for approval, affirmation, or adoration from those around us. We want love and respect from our family members, recognition from coworkers, and good standing within our community. We strive for these conditional social rewards. Something missing within us longs for acceptance, and so we shift our attention to the accolades this world so teasingly offers.

Perhaps we didn’t get the approval we needed from our own fathers. Or perhaps we know we are inwardly more fragile than the lofty expectations we have placed upon ourselves. Or perhaps we are tempted to place the spotlight on ourselves. For whatever reason, if we’re not proactive, our priorities can become misguided. We can be tricked into thinking, If only others would lift me up. It has been said that the chief end of man is to bring glory to God. The honest question that every man needs to face is this one: In all sincerity, who do I want to see glorified in my life today?

God, whenever I am swayed to seek my own stance upon your pedestal, remind me of who you are and what my priorities should be.

 

JANUARY 2

BLESSING

May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

PHILIPPIANS 4:23 NLT

At the end of his letter to his friends in the city of Philippi, Paul gave a blessing: “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.” Does anyone in your family or within your network of friends need to receive a blessing like this from you? As a man, you’re in a privileged and unique situation to speak life into those who need your love. You have the incredible opportunity, through your words, to curse or to encourage those closest to you.

God wants you to extend his blessing upon others. So, today, receive the grace he has for you through Jesus and then be intentional about sharing that grace with those you love. Jesus loves you, has given his life for you, and offers you unrelenting relationship. Now do the same for others in his grace-full power.

God, may you give me more than enough grace, so I may overflow upon those around me. In the name of Jesus.

 

JANUARY 3

CHANGING LIVES

This same Good News that came to you is going out all over the world. It is bearing fruit everywhere by changing lives, just as it changed your lives from the day you first heard and understood the truth about God’s wonderful grace.

COLOSSIANS 1:6 NLT

The good news of Jesus is that our sins are forgiven and our relationship with God is restored through his saving work on the cross. This seed, when planted, grows and bears fruit for generations.

As a man, you have a remarkable twofold calling. First, you are called to embrace the good news wherever you are, making the grace and truth of Jesus the central component of your life. Second, you are called to share this good news with anyone who comes across your path. Sow the seeds of the gospel of Jesus within their lives. Help them to cultivate their faith. Provide the water, the light, the nutrients, and the environment for their faith to flourish. And watch with joy as the good news of Jesus spreads through them. You know Jesus has impacted your life when he leads you to start impacting others. It has been said that your faith in God isn’t actually yours. Rather, your faith in God is yours to give.

God, let me never cover up my faith. Continue to change my life by your Spirit and empower me to be bold in the way that I live out my commitment to you.

 

JANUARY 4

WORK SO HARD

We tell others about Christ, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all the wisdom God has given us. We want to present them to God, perfect in their relationship to Christ. That’s why I work and struggle so hard, depending on Christ’s mighty power that works within me.

COLOSSIANS 1:28-29 NLT

If you were called to a meeting with God, and if it was your special responsibility to introduce the people in your life to him, what would you say? How would you describe them to God? What would be the important aspects you would want God to know as you presented them to him? If you had your lifetime to prepare for this meeting, how would you spend your life? To what would you devote your time each day? What sorts of habits or characteristics would you hope would rub off you and onto them?

Paul tirelessly invested the qualities of his own life into others. His desire was to present people to God, perfect through Christ. He sought God’s wisdom in the practice of his own faith so he would know how to teach and represent God to those he cared about. He worked so hard, not for his own gain but so others would discover and embrace the forgiveness and abundance that comes from knowing Jesus.

God, may the work of my heart and hands today be determined, strong, and courageous on behalf of those around me.

 

JANUARY 5

CONTINUE TO LIVE

Just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him.

COLOSSIANS 2:6 NLT

Just because at some point in your life you committed yourself to Jesus, doesn’t mean that your faith is to remain static. To be a disciple means to be a learner. In other words, a disciple of Jesus is a learner of Jesus.

Therefore, continue to follow Jesus. In fact, follow him with more attentive steps than yesterday. Learn his thoughts, learn his actions, and learn his will. Seek out his decisions for you, search out his advice, and call out for his wisdom. Run to his healing, walk where he miraculously stands, and get down into the messes in which he so willingly places himself. Embrace him as tightly today as you did at any point in your past. If Jesus is to be your Lord, let him be your Lord in every practical way today.

God, give me the resolve to continue to trust myself to your guidance, your steps, and your presence in my life. I want to follow you again today, as I did yesterday and as I will tomorrow.

 

JANUARY 6

DON’T GET CAUGHT

Don’t let anyone capture you with empty philosophies and high-sounding nonsense that come from human thinking and from the spiritual powers of this world, rather than from Christ.

COLOSSIANS 2:8 NLT

In Genesis 3, Satan captured Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden. He hunted them, he lured them, and then he snared them. They bought his shrewd, high-sounding nonsense. In Matthew 4, Satan tried his alluring arguments again, this time to trip up Jesus in the desert. Each statement and question lobbed by Satan was a like a high-arching softball grenade. If Jesus had taken the bait, the consequences would have been explosive. But he stayed the course. He didn’t let the evil one capture him with falsehoods. In fact, he freely dispatched Satan’s empty philosophies by being even shrewder than the snake.

How did he resist while Adam and Eve had fallen? What was Jesus’ weapon? It was the uncompromising ballistic missile of truth. Staying alert and on course isn’t just for your sake. The arguments you buy and the conclusions you accept impact the generations that follow you. Your kids will likely mimic your thoughts. Your grandchildren will likely reflect their grandfather’s beliefs. If you get lost, it’s likely that they will as well.

God, as for me and my family, we will serve you. Help me, then, to stay true, for the sake of those around me.

 

JANUARY 7

NEW NATURE

Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him.

COLOSSIANS 3:10 NLT

In Genesis 1, God merely spoke, and the stars were born. He said, “Let there be…” and there was. In the beginning, Christ was the Word (mentioned in John 1) who declared to the darkness that there should be light.

Jesus has spoken into your life today. He declares you free from sin. He proclaims the year of the Lord’s favor, release for those who are captured, and sight for those who have lost their vision. He speaks a new vocation for your days. He calls you to him, and he calls you to change the world. His words beckon you to draw near and empower you to move mountains. He asks you to speak with his voice, his authority, his commands, and his creativity. Be refreshed today. Put on the new nature given to you by Jesus, the creator of the world.

God, by your Word, create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me. Let me be refreshed in my soul today. Draw me close to you and help me to share this newness of life with those around me.

 

JANUARY 8

CONTENT

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.

PHILIPPIANS 4:12 NIV

We often think of contentment as the satisfaction of all our needs. If that were true, it would only be possible to be content when everything is perfect. God gives us the power and the peace to be okay even when everything around us is not.

Our decision-making and leadership is better when we learn to be content no matter the outcome. God frequently reminds us that true peace and contentment comes from our relationship with him and not the circumstances of our life.

God, please give me your perspective on my life. Help me to be content even when there are things I wish I could change. Keep me from acting in fear or worrying about things that are not how I wish they would be. Help me to trust that, no matter what, you are enough.

 

JANUARY 9

WITNESSES

We have all of these great witnesses who encircle us like clouds. So we must let go of every wound that has pierced us and the sin we so easily fall into. Then we will be able to run life’s marathon race with passion and determination, for the path has been already marked out before us.

HEBREWS 12:1 TPT

We often perform better when someone is watching. We fight harder, strive further, and endure longer when we know others are paying attention. When we forget we’re being watched, it becomes easier to succumb to our struggle. We might rest our defenses and end up tangled in things we wouldn’t want others to see.

The everyday people in our lives surround us like a cloud. They are paying attention even when we might think they’re not. Through them, God cheers for us to wrestle free from the things that would hinder our relationship with them and with him. Our hearts will fight for others more fiercely than we fight for ourselves.

Lord, I desire to be a good example for the people in my life. Please keep in my mind the truth that they are learning from my actions. Help me to trust that they are cheering for me, and that my successes are their successes. I believe they are worth any struggle, so please use them to inspire me to keep fighting.

 

JANUARY 10

GOD-BREATHED

All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

2 TIMOTHY 3:16-17 NIV

There’s a mysterious weight to the words of Scripture. It’s easy to live with a more-or-less understanding of God’s ideal life gleaned from the general idea of a verse. When we forgo the specific words of the Bible, we pull its punches a little bit.

Even though those around us might respond with glazed eyes, it is worth quoting relevant verses at relevant times. When we do, the life God has breathed into those words will help it come alive in the heart of the listener. The entire Bible is available to give just the right wisdom in just the right way.

God, I want to know your Word so I can apply it when opportunities arise. Help me to recall the verses I have read whenever they can be of use in my life or the lives of those around me. Encourage me to cling to your specific promises and not just my own paraphrases. Please sharpen my spiritual mind.

 

JANUARY 11

OBEDIENCE

“Go and gather together all the Jews of Susa and fast for me. Do not eat or drink for three days, night or day. My maids and I will do the same. And then, though it is against the law, I will go in to see the king. If I must die, I must die.”

ESTHER 4:16 NLT

God rarely asks us to produce a specific result. What he most frequently asks of us is simply obedience. We don’t always know what the result might be, or even what God’s will is in a certain moment. What we can be sure of is that he desires our devotion and commitment no matter the consequences.

Esther was unsure what would come of her action, but she was certain it was what she needed to do. The result would possibly be death, but her only concern was obedience. We can miss opportunities to serve God when we focus on the outcome. God’s desire is to grow us through an experience and to have us trust him with whatever happens. Life with God is not about results; it is about obedience.

God, thank you for inviting me to be a part of what you are doing in the world. I confess I often worry about what might happen, instead of trusting you to work through every situation. Remind me that it pleases you when I obey, and that you want to take care of the rest.

 

JANUARY 12

DOING GOOD

As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.

2 THESSALONIANS 3:13 ESV

It is worth it to keep doing what is right and good. It may be thankless and difficult, but it is always worth it. You might feel like it doesn’t matter or that nobody notices how hard you work to live how God says to live. Perhaps you feel cheated because, despite your efforts, things just aren’t working.

Keep going. Don’t grow weary now. It’s possible you won’t see the results of your devotion, but nothing you give to God is fruitless. Lower your shoulder and keep pressing on. Every decision you make to do what is good gives God one more tool in his toolbox, and he is working to build something beautiful in your life. Keep going. It is worth it.

God, strengthen me to keep living how you ask me to live. Give me the endurance to make the decisions that please you, even when I’m worn. I pray you will restore my energy and help me to keep moving forward toward the life you want me to have. Thank you for being with me and for helping me live a life of doing good.

 

JANUARY 13

ADDING WORDS

“Every word of God is flawless; he is a shield to those who take refuge in him. Do not add to his words, or he will rebuke you and prove you a liar.”

PROVERBS 30:5-6 NIV

When we believe the Bible is on our side, we must take great care in how we convey its truth. It is good to understand what the Bible says about any situation, and following what God says helps us keep our integrity.

However, we must be careful to not exaggerate what Scripture says just because we think we’re right. Let Scripture speak for itself. It’s not our job to make the listener agree. We can simply share what the Bible says and trust that God will water and grow his truth for his purposes. God delights in our righteousness, but he also yearns for the righteousness of others.

Lord, help me to speak only your truth when helping others to see your light. Please protect me from injecting my own opinions into the work you’re trying to do. I want to gladly share your Word with others, and I trust that it speaks for itself. Thank you for helping me be an amplifier for your truth instead of my own.

 

JANUARY 14

POINTING

“You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me! Yet you refuse to come to me to receive this life.”

JOHN 5:39-40 NLT

Approaching Jesus can be intimidating. We’re often afraid of what he might say, or ask, or already know. This fear will drive us to keep doing the “safer” spiritual discipline of just reading the Bible. Secretly, we hope that rushed prayers and memorized verses won’t disrupt our lives too much.

But Jesus wants to disrupt our lives. He wants to shake up our routine and replace the parts that are lacking with the vibrant life we crave in the depths of our soul. Scripture is good precisely because it begs us to intimately connect with our Savior. Don’t shy away from the spiritual tug of Scripture, frightening as it may be. If you let it lead you to Jesus, you will find what are you are looking for in every verse.

God, I believe that you want to bring satisfying life to every part of who I am. I confess that I sometimes hesitate to come to you for fear of what you might say. Please remind me that you are not interested in shame or judgment and that your core desire is for me to experience the life you created me to live.

 

JANUARY 15

INFINITELY MORE

All glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.

EPHESIANS 3:20 NLT

God delights in surprising us. Like a father building an incredible treehouse for his child or a husband unveiling a dream vacation to his wife, God takes joy in doing things for us that exceed our expectations. He wants us to stare at him in wonder and realize that he is so much more impressive than we give him credit for.

Often, our dreams aren’t big enough. We’d settle for a response to prayer that helps us just get by. Our heavenly Father wants so much more than that! We convince ourselves we aren’t worth his time, but he says, “I want your life to be abundant, and I’m going to do that through you.” The power of God is most beautifully demonstrated in his ability to exceed our expectations by working through us.

God, you are so much better than I can imagine. I know that even my grandest request seems small compared to what you want to accomplish through me. Help me to remember that you are at work in my life to create something better than I could ever create on my own.

 

JANUARY 16

BIGGER

I pray that out of his glorious riches he may strengthen you with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith. And I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ.

EPHESIANS 3:16-18 NIV

God is so big that only he can show us how big he is. Our understanding of God begins with that first aha moment where his power becomes reality to us. That first taste creates a hunger for more, and we strive to learn all we can about God. As our understanding of God grows, so does his stature and power in our mind.

But eventually we realize that God exceeds our ability to understand. For some, this stunts their growth, as they refuse to chase the Holy Spirit into the “unknown.” For believers, however, the “unknown” is an invitation to experience God in a way we can’t explain. God’s power, working within us, pushes out the boundaries we’ve created around our creator. God is actively working to help you experience even deeper satisfaction in your relationship with him.

God, thank you that I can never understand in this life just how truly wonderful you are. Thank you that every day is a chance to be amazed by your character. I pray that you will let my heart and soul continue where my mind wants to stop, and that I would feel the deep connection you desire with me.

 

JANUARY 17

MERCY THROUGH MENTORSHIP

Fathers, do not make your children angry, but raise them with the training and teaching of the Lord.

EPHESIANS 6:4 NCV

For most people, the first understanding of God is directly connected to how they experienced their earthly father. Fathers are models of the Lord whether they intend to be or not. A child with a strict father will usually first assume God is judgmental. A child with an absent father will often first perceive God as uncaring. Fathers shape the lens through which children first see their Savior.

Through Jesus, God set his example of mercy through mentorship. It’s easy to express reactionary anger when we are upset, but the Holy Spirit works to direct that angry energy into opportunities for growth and learning. When we do that, we paint a more accurate picture of God for the people in our lives.

God, I want others to know you. Please help me to conduct myself in a way that makes you look good. I pray that I will choose opportunities for growth over angry outbursts. Help me to see the best way—your way—to respond to my frustrations.

 

JANUARY 18

NOTHING WITHOUT

“I am the vine, you are the branches. Those who abide in me and I in them bear much fruit, because apart from me you can do nothing.”

JOHN 15:5 NRSV

Many times we treat God like a turbo boost for life. For the most part we do our own thing, work hard to achieve our goals, and muscle through each day. But sometimes, when things are really hard, we finally relent and pray that God would help us over some particularly difficult hurdle in life.

If the above verse were written with regard to how many of us live, it would say “apart from me you can do most things.” Of course, Jesus knew what he was saying. His point was clear: we shouldn’t save our reliance on him like some sort of power-up. We are designed for constant connection to Christ. We function best, and really only function at all, when we choose to connect with God at all times, not just in tough times.

God, thank you for being my source of strength every day. I pray that I will reflexively turn to you in every situation instead of leaning on you only when I feel I’ve exhausted all other options. Thank you for caring about even the things that seem small or insignificant. I know life is more enjoyable when you’re in all of it.

 

JANUARY 19

WEARY

Even youths shall faint and be weary, and young men shall fall exhausted; but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.

ISAIAH 40:30-31 ESV

Whenever you feel worn out, it should serve as a reminder to connect with God. When we try to do things with our own power, we often find ourselves drained before the task is accomplished. But when we trust that God is at work and we are simply assisting him, we find a deep supply of energy to keep doing his will.

The next time you’re exhausted, pause and talk to God. He may encourage you to keep going, he may insist you stop worrying and rest, or he may convict you to shed the added weight of a sin in your life. No matter how he responds, he promises to help you keep going in a way you might have thought impossible before.

Lord, thank you for giving me strength and energy when I feel I’m running out. Help me to continue experiencing your goodness even when I’m weary. I pray that I will realize the difference it makes to trust in you each day and that I will experience the vitality of living for you.

 

JANUARY 20

COMFORT

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me; your rod and your staff—they comfort me.

PSALM 23:4 NRSV

President Theodore Roosevelt famously said, “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” Sometimes we focus too much on the gentle and comforting shepherd image of God, forgetting that one of the primary jobs of a shepherd is defender, which he is prepared to do.

It is in the darkest and most terrifying places that we are keenly aware of any source of safety. As our fight-or-flight reaction kicks in, we pay attention to anything that offers protection. Perhaps this is the reason that God sometimes leads us through dark periods of life, so we are reminded of the safety found in him. Your heavenly Father has every intention of protecting you with his might, and that fact should bring you deep peace when you’re scared.

God, thank you for protecting me. I can take great comfort in knowing you are with me and you are powerful. Thank you for leading me through things that are intimidating, and for promising to help me fight when the time comes.

 

JANUARY 21

WORSHIP THE SPLENDOR

Honor the LORD for the glory of his name. Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. The voice of the LORD echoes above the sea. The God of glory thunders. The LORD thunders over the mighty sea. The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic.

PSALM 29:2-4 NLT

Worshiping God is the only natural response to his power. When we find ourselves in seasons where worship is difficult, we can think it’s because we don’t feel close to him. Intimacy is often the result of worship, and worship is the result of focusing on God’s power and goodness.

God’s might is the source of the good things we experience in him. In times of difficulty we rely on his strength to protect us. In times of joy we celebrate his power working within us. In all situations we benefit from placing our focus on the splendor of God. In doing so, we pave the way for a deeper sense of intimacy with and connection to our Creator.

God, you are powerful and mighty. Help me to focus on your characteristics so that I can see my own life with a better perspective. I want to worship you no matter my circumstances. Your power is the most helpful thing for me each day.

 

JANUARY 22

IMITATE

I appeal to you, then, be imitators of me.

1 CORINTHIANS 4:16 NRSV

You’re a Christian not just because someone told you about Jesus, but because they also demonstrated what it means to live a Christ-centered life. The person who showed you is also following the example set for them by another, who is in turn copying yet another. For every Christian, there is an unbroken line of imitators that can be traced back to Jesus himself.

Your job, then, is to live in such a way that the chain continues. Is an invitation to live like you also an invitation to live like Jesus? Your imitation becomes an invitation, to those around you, into a satisfying life.

Lord, help me to live how you taught us to live. I want my life to be an example of what it means to follow you. I pray you will give me the strength to be an example to my friends and family of what it means to have a life devoted to you.

 

JANUARY 23

FULLNESS

To know the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge, so that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.

EPHESIANS 3:19 NRSV

Christ’s love brings fullness of life. It was his love for humanity that pushed him to sacrifice so much on our behalf. It is through that same love that we are invited into a rich and satisfying life. It is Christ’s love that is the missing puzzle piece for all those who have yet to follow him.

The promise of Christ’s love is that we have been made complete. Our own lives are transformed, and we are able to live with more power and purpose than we ever could alone. Through that power we can help others experience the same amazing love and invite them into the full life God intends for us.

God, please continue pouring into me. Help me to experience your love in a way that fills my life.

 

JANUARY 24

YOUNG EXAMPLES

Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.

1 TIMOTHY 4:12 ESV

It’s our job to teach younger believers, and daily we should be looking for ways to explain or model something we wish for them to learn. Perhaps we feel like a spigot of knowledge, pouring out what we know into the young vessels. There is deep satisfaction in seeing what we’ve taught take hold in the lives of others.

We can easily view it as a one-way street, but while God is using us to teach others, he is also revealing himself to us through them. Some traits of the Lord are best demonstrated through youthful innocence and purity. If we pay close attention, we’ll see the nature of God in younger Christians. When you do, celebrate it and encourage them. Let them know that God is using them right now, in their youth, to teach others about himself.

God, please give me eyes to see what younger believers can teach me about you. Help me to experience what they know about you, that I have yet to learn. And Lord, please remind me to thank them each time they remind me of who you are.

 

JANUARY 25

CALLED UP

“You should also look for able men among all the people, men who fear God, are trustworthy, and hate dishonest gain; set such men over them as officers over thousands, hundreds, fifties, and tens.”

EXODUS 18:21 NRSV

When God is at work, he recruits men with hearts pointed toward him. He is less concerned about skill and experience, and more concerned with motivation and love. Men who are intentionally living for Jesus are the most likely to be called into faithful action.

It is in day-to-day life that people demonstrate their readiness for leadership. A man who waits for his marching orders to begin conditioning will find himself woefully underprepared. Instead, the most useful followers of Jesus are those who put his teachings into practice each day. It is never fruitless to follow Jesus with daily devotion.

God, I want to be the kind of man you can call on when you are at work around me. I also want to be the kind of man that others would seek out in their times of need. Please use my everyday experiences to strengthen and grow me into someone who can serve you well.

 

JANUARY 26

SAFETY IN NUMBERS

Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.

PROVERBS 11:14 ESV

There is truth to the old saying, “It takes a village to raise a child.” Parents can easily fall into the trap of believing that they alone must provide protection and instruction for their children. But living this way robs kids of experiencing the richness of many voices.

We are called to be both discerning and generous with the guidance of children. We should recognize the children that God has placed in our lives and be a part of their village! Then we set an example for Christian community and help their parents to provide a buffet of positive influence for their children. We are called to be a blessing to both our friends and their children.

God, thank you for the opportunity to be a positive voice who speaks into the life of children. I pray you will bless the families that I can influence by my words and actions. Through your Spirit, please use me to back up the things you are teaching through their parents.

 

JANUARY 27

WARNING AND PATIENCE

We urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone.

1 THESSALONIANS 5:14 NIV

Correction and patience must go hand in hand. Correction without patience is anger. Patience without correction is avoidance. Being a godly leader requires both in equal balance.

The Bible urges us to follow God’s example when encouraging right living in others. We are to point out God’s expectations and highlight clearly when they’re not met. This provides a chance to do the right thing. But the entire process falls apart if not done with encouragement, strength, and patience. Those are the three main ingredients of godly direction.

God, when times arise that I need to encourage others to live how you say to live, please help me correct them the way you say to correct. Give me the strength and patience to truly encourage change in their lives and continue to change me in the process as well.

 

JANUARY 28

TELL THEM

Parents will tell their children what you have done. They will retell your mighty acts.

PSALM 145:4 NCV

We know an experience has profoundly changed us when we begin telling others about it. There is great power in stories, and the most powerful stories are those of God changing us. Throughout your life, God has worked to bring transformation, blessing, and wisdom. You’re an expert in how God has worked in your life.

No doubt each of us has a favorite story. We connect to stories in an incredible way, and the fastest route to a person’s heart is through story. You’re an expert in your story and sharing the ways God has worked in your life is not only your responsibility but also one of the most effective ways to explain how God works within us. It helps the more famous stories of the Bible feel more alive when you know the same God is at work right now with someone you love. Tell people what the Lord has done, and is doing, in your life.

God, please help me to be authentic in talking with others about how you are at work. I want them to know you by hearing about the work you are doing in me. Remind me that my story is powerful and that you have given me experiences precisely so I can share them with others.

 

JANUARY 29

EVERYTHING YOU DO

Encourage the young men to live wisely. And you yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. Let everything you do reflect the integrity and seriousness of your teaching.

TITUS 2:6-7 NLT

The only way to demonstrate that we really mean what we say is to live it. Our actions are our primary way of teaching; our own lives are the ultimate visual aid for any life lesson we try to convey. If we want people to listen to our advice, we must live it clearly for them to see.

But if we want them to listen to our advice, we must also speak it. The best way to instruct is the one-two punch of teaching and modeling. We must live correctly and then explain why we have chosen to live that way. People around you will learn from your life, no matter what it teaches.

God, please help me to be consistent in what I teach to the people in my life. Give me the strength and wisdom for my life to serve as a wonderful lesson for what it means to be a man of God.

 

JANUARY 30

REST

It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones.

PSALM 127:2 NLT

Failure to rest is usually the result of failure to trust God. There are many valid things we could do with any hour of the day, and danger comes when we forget that rest is one of them. We were created to rest; in fact, the first full day that Creator and man spent together was a day of rest.

We know God disapproves of laziness, but we often forget that it is also sinful to never rest. No amount of work will ever supply the deep sleep and rest that God offers. He beckons us to rest so we can remember our dependence on him. When we do, we are more likely to depend on him on the busy days as well. Take time today to rest.

Lord, I know I need rest. Give me the courage to make time for rest by delaying or declining the things I need to do. Please provide peace that everything will be okay if I take time and obey your command to rest. I pray it will help me to trust even more that you are with me.

 

JANUARY 31

KNOW YOUR FLOCK

Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds.

PROVERBS 27:23 NIV

It’s not enough to simply watch for trouble in the lives of our friends and family. We are called to keep our finger on the pulse of their heart and soul. We can easily lose that pulse in the normal rhythm of our everyday relationships, but as men we must give special care to our flock: the people in our care.

The beauty is that when trouble comes, we’re more prepared for it. In fact, we’re likely to catch it earlier if we already know the condition of another person’s spiritual life. We’re called to diligently keep watch over the ups and downs in the lives of the people we care most about.

God, please give me the ability to sense how my friends and family are doing spiritually. Help me remain consistent in my attention to their lives, and please highlight the things you want me to see.