Living Healthy Week 2 : Living Lean
A 5 day devotional based upon the message:
Day 1: The Lie of "More" Reading: Genesis 3:1-7; Matthew 6:19-21 Devotional: The serpent's original lie still echoes today: "What you don't have is what you need to be happy." Every advertisement, every scroll through social media reinforces this deception. But Jesus calls us to a radically different way—storing treasures in heaven, not on earth. The truth is that accumulation doesn't lead to satisfaction; it leads to anxiety over protecting what we've gathered. Today, examine what you're pursuing. Are you chasing things that moths destroy and rust corrupts? Or are you investing in eternal treasures? Your heart follows your treasure. Where you invest your time, money, and energy reveals what you truly worship. Choose wisely, for these investments shape your soul.
Day 2: Stripping Off the Weight Reading: Hebrews 12:1-2; Ecclesiastes 4:6 Devotional: Athletes don't run marathons wearing heavy coats and boots. They strip off everything that would slow them down. Yet spiritually, we often run life's race weighed down by possessions, commitments, and distractions that hinder our pursuit of Jesus. The writer of Hebrews urges us to "strip off every weight" and "keep our eyes on Jesus." What's weighing you down? Is it a closet full of unused clothes, a schedule with no margin for God, or debt from pursuing things you didn't need? "Better one handful with tranquility than two handfuls with toil." This week, identify one weight you can strip off—whether physical clutter, a time commitment, or a financial burden—and experience the freedom of running lighter toward Jesus.
Day 3: Defining Enough Reading: Acts 27:33-38; 1 Timothy 6:6-10 Devotional: When Paul's shipmates finally ate after two weeks of starvation, they recognized they had "enough." Then they threw the excess wheat overboard to save the ship. They understood a profound truth: enough is when you have what you need. Our culture never defines "enough"—there's always a bigger house, newer car, or next achievement. But godliness with contentment is great gain. We brought nothing into this world and can take nothing out. When we fail to define enough, we fall into the trap of endless accumulation, which brings anxiety, not peace. Today, prayerfully define "enough" for your life. What do you actually need? Where can you draw the line? This isn't about legalism but about freedom—freedom from the tyranny of always wanting more.
Day 4: The Secret of Contentment Reading: Philippians 4:10-13; Psalm 23 Devotional: Paul discovered a secret that transformed his life: contentment in every circumstance. Whether well-fed or hungry, in plenty or in want, he learned to be content. His secret? "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This isn't about positive thinking or self-help; it's about Christ-dependence. When Jesus is your portion, you have everything you need. He's bread when you're hungry, water when you're thirsty, peace when you're anxious, and hope when you're discouraged. The Psalmist declared, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." Not because he had everything, but because he had the Lord. Today, practice saying with conviction: "Because I have Jesus, I have enough." Let this truth sink from your head to your heart.
Day 5: Jesus in the Foreground Reading: Matthew 6:25-34; Colossians 3:1-4 Devotional: Jesus can easily slip into the background of our lives when we fill every space with activities, possessions, and pursuits. But when He's in the foreground—when we seek first His kingdom—everything changes. He becomes not a historical figure or Sunday obligation, but your closest friend, constant counselor, and daily bread. The most meaningful moments in life aren't about things but about relationships and transformation. Holding hands with your spouse. Watching someone encounter Jesus for the first time. Experiencing forgiveness. These eternal moments can't be purchased or accumulated. This year, commit to keeping Jesus in the foreground. Create a "to-don't" list—things you'll eliminate to make room for Him. Because the truth is simple and profound: your life is too valuable and your calling too great to waste on things that don't last.