What is God Like? Week 3 : Acceptance
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the message:
Day 1: Experiencing the Father's Love Reading: 1 John 3:1-3 Devotional: Today, we focus on the incredible love of our heavenly Father. The verse tells us to "See what great love the Father has lavished on us." Take a moment to truly consider this. God's love isn't just given; it's lavished upon us abundantly. This love is so profound that it transforms our very identity - we are called children of God. Reflect on times when you've doubted God's love for you. How might your perspective change if you fully embraced your identity as God's beloved child? Today, practice seeing yourself through God's eyes of love, and let that shape how you interact with others.
Day 2: Faith that Reaches Out Reading: Luke 8:43-48 Devotional: The woman with the issue of blood demonstrated remarkable faith. Despite her condition and societal restrictions, she reached out to touch Jesus' garment, believing in His power to heal. Her faith was rewarded with complete restoration. Consider the areas in your life where you need healing - physically, emotionally, or spiritually. What's holding you back from reaching out to Jesus in faith? Remember, Jesus is aware of our touch of faith, even in a crowd. He stops for us, gives us His full attention, and speaks words of affirmation and peace. Today, reach out to Jesus in faith, no matter how impossible your situation may seem.
Day 3: The God Who Walks With Us Reading: Deuteronomy 31:6-8 Devotional: Our God is not distant; He is a God who walks with us through every season of life. Just as Jesus walked with Jairus towards his home, God promises to go before us and be with us. He will never leave nor forsake us. Reflect on times when you've felt God's presence particularly close, guiding you through difficult circumstances. How does the assurance of God's constant presence change how you approach challenges? Today, practice awareness of God's presence in every moment, acknowledging Him in both your triumphs and struggles.
Day 4: Hope in the Face of Death Reading: Luke 8:49-56 Devotional: When all hope seemed lost for Jairus' daughter, Jesus spoke words of life. In our darkest moments, when situations appear beyond help, Jesus still has the final word. He is the God of resurrection power. Think about areas in your life that seem "dead" - dreams, relationships, or opportunities. How might Jesus be calling you to have hope and trust in His power to bring life? Today, surrender those "dead" areas to Jesus, believing in His ability to breathe new life into them.
Day 5: God's Love in Our Suffering Reading: Romans 5:3-8 Devotional: God's love shines brightest against the backdrop of our suffering. While we were still sinners - at our worst - Christ died for us. This demonstrates the depth of God's love. Our sufferings, like the woman's 12 years of illness or Jairus' anguish over his dying daughter, don't negate God's love. Instead, they provide opportunities for God's love to be displayed powerfully. Reflect on your current struggles. How might God be using these to reveal His love more clearly? Today, choose to see your challenges through the lens of God's unwavering love, trusting that He is working all things for your good.