Weekly Devotional 6/15/2025
Day 1: Restoring the Image of God Reading: Genesis 1:26-27, 2 Corinthians 3:18 Devotional: As we begin this journey, let's reflect on what it means to bear God's image. In the sermon, we heard about the "Imago Dei" - the image of God within us. This isn't just about appearance, but about reflecting God's character. Just as a mirror reflects light, we are called to reflect God's love, mercy, and goodness to the world. Today, consider how you can more fully embody God's image in your daily life. Are there areas where the world's influence has dulled this reflection? Ask God to help you restore His image within you, transforming you day by day to become more like Christ.
Day 2: Growing in Godliness Reading: 2 Peter 1:3-11 Devotional: Peter outlines a path of spiritual growth, starting with faith and culminating in love. This isn't a checklist, but a journey of transformation. Each step builds on the last, deepening our relationship with God and others. Today, identify where you are on this path. Are you struggling with self-control? Working on perseverance? Wherever you are, remember that God has given us "everything we need for a godly life." Pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance as you take the next step in your spiritual growth, trusting that God is at work in you.
Day 3: Enduring Through Trials Reading: James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-5 Devotional: The sermon reminded us that the Christian life isn't always easy. We face trials both from outside and within the church. Yet, these challenges can strengthen our faith when we endure them with God's help. Reflect on a current difficulty in your life. How might God be using this to develop your character or deepen your dependence on Him? Remember, just as Jesus prayed in Gethsemane, it's okay to ask God to remove our struggles. But like Christ, we can also surrender to God's will, trusting that He is working all things for our good and His glory.
Day 4: The Call to Christian Love Reading: 1 John 4:7-21 Devotional: The progression in 2 Peter culminates in love - both brotherly affection (phileo) and sacrificial love (agape). This echoes Jesus' command to love God and neighbor. In a world often marked by division, our love for one another is a powerful witness. Today, consider how you can show Christ's love more fully. Is there someone you need to forgive? A neighbor who needs practical help? A fellow believer who needs encouragement? Ask God to fill you with His love and for opportunities to share that love with others.
Day 5: Living in Light of Eternity Reading: Colossians 3:1-4, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Devotional: Our earthly struggles are temporary, but our hope in Christ is eternal. The sermon reminded us of the "rich reward" awaiting believers - an eternity in God's presence. This promise should transform how we live today. Are you making decisions based on temporary comforts or eternal values? How might your priorities shift if you consistently viewed life through an eternal lens? Today, ask God to help you "set your minds on things above." Let the promise of eternity with Him motivate you to live faithfully, love deeply, and serve wholeheartedly in the here and now.
Day 1: Restoring the Image of God Reading: Genesis 1:26-27, 2 Corinthians 3:18 Devotional: As we begin this journey, let's reflect on what it means to bear God's image. In the sermon, we heard about the "Imago Dei" - the image of God within us. This isn't just about appearance, but about reflecting God's character. Just as a mirror reflects light, we are called to reflect God's love, mercy, and goodness to the world. Today, consider how you can more fully embody God's image in your daily life. Are there areas where the world's influence has dulled this reflection? Ask God to help you restore His image within you, transforming you day by day to become more like Christ.
Day 2: Growing in Godliness Reading: 2 Peter 1:3-11 Devotional: Peter outlines a path of spiritual growth, starting with faith and culminating in love. This isn't a checklist, but a journey of transformation. Each step builds on the last, deepening our relationship with God and others. Today, identify where you are on this path. Are you struggling with self-control? Working on perseverance? Wherever you are, remember that God has given us "everything we need for a godly life." Pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance as you take the next step in your spiritual growth, trusting that God is at work in you.
Day 3: Enduring Through Trials Reading: James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-5 Devotional: The sermon reminded us that the Christian life isn't always easy. We face trials both from outside and within the church. Yet, these challenges can strengthen our faith when we endure them with God's help. Reflect on a current difficulty in your life. How might God be using this to develop your character or deepen your dependence on Him? Remember, just as Jesus prayed in Gethsemane, it's okay to ask God to remove our struggles. But like Christ, we can also surrender to God's will, trusting that He is working all things for our good and His glory.
Day 4: The Call to Christian Love Reading: 1 John 4:7-21 Devotional: The progression in 2 Peter culminates in love - both brotherly affection (phileo) and sacrificial love (agape). This echoes Jesus' command to love God and neighbor. In a world often marked by division, our love for one another is a powerful witness. Today, consider how you can show Christ's love more fully. Is there someone you need to forgive? A neighbor who needs practical help? A fellow believer who needs encouragement? Ask God to fill you with His love and for opportunities to share that love with others.
Day 5: Living in Light of Eternity Reading: Colossians 3:1-4, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 Devotional: Our earthly struggles are temporary, but our hope in Christ is eternal. The sermon reminded us of the "rich reward" awaiting believers - an eternity in God's presence. This promise should transform how we live today. Are you making decisions based on temporary comforts or eternal values? How might your priorities shift if you consistently viewed life through an eternal lens? Today, ask God to help you "set your minds on things above." Let the promise of eternity with Him motivate you to live faithfully, love deeply, and serve wholeheartedly in the here and now.