Living Unoffended Week 2 : "Those" People
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the message:
Day 1: Choosing Love Over Offense Reading: Ephesians 4:26-27, 31-32 Devotional: In a world quick to take offense, God calls us to a higher standard. Today's reading reminds us that while anger itself isn't sinful, holding onto it can give the enemy a foothold in our lives. Instead of nurturing bitterness, we're called to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving. Reflect on any lingering anger or resentment in your heart. How might choosing forgiveness free you from giving the enemy room to work? Consider someone who has offended you recently. How can you extend kindness to them today, mirroring the forgiveness Christ has shown you?
Day 2: Speaking Life-Giving Words Reading: Ephesians 4:29, Proverbs 15:1-2 Devotional: Our words have immense power - to build up or tear down. Today's passages challenge us to use our speech purposefully, to encourage and edify others. In a culture often marked by harsh criticism and unwholesome talk, especially online, we have the opportunity to stand out by speaking life. Think about your recent conversations and social media interactions. Have your words been a source of healing and encouragement? Ask God to help you be more intentional with your speech, using it to reflect His love and bring out the best in others.
Day 3: Renewing Your Mind Reading: Ephesians 4:17-24, Romans 12:2 Devotional: As followers of Christ, we're called to a radical transformation - putting off our old selves and embracing a new identity in Him. This isn't just about behavior modification, but a complete renewal of our minds. Consider areas where your thinking might still align more with the world than with God's truth. Are there places where you need to "put off" old patterns of thought? Invite the Holy Spirit to renew your mind today, helping you see yourself and others through God's eyes of love and grace.
Day 4: Living in Unity Reading: Ephesians 4:1-6, John 17:20-23 Devotional: In a deeply divided world, unity among believers is a powerful witness. Today's passages remind us that we are all part of one body in Christ, called to live in harmony. This unity doesn't mean uniformity - we can have different perspectives while still maintaining love and respect. Reflect on relationships where differences have caused tension. How can you take a step toward reconciliation or understanding today? Ask God to help you be a peacemaker, bridging divides and reflecting the unity Christ prayed for His followers to have.
Day 5: Examining Your Heart Reading: Psalm 139:23-24, Jeremiah 17:9-10 Devotional: Self-examination is crucial for spiritual growth, yet our hearts can be deceptive. Today's passages invite us to ask God to search our hearts, revealing any offensive ways within us. This requires humility and courage, as we might discover attitudes or behaviors we've been blind to. Take time in quiet reflection, asking God to shine His light into the hidden corners of your heart. Is there any bitterness, prejudice, or self-righteousness He's revealing? Surrender these to Him, asking for His transforming grace to make you more like Christ.