Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the sermon "The Love of God" on 7/27/25
Day 1: Trusting God Completely
Reading: Genesis 22:1-19
Devotional: Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac is a powerful example of emunah - complete trust in God. As you read this challenging passage, reflect on areas in your life where you struggle to fully trust God. What fears or doubts hold you back? Remember that God credited Abraham's faith as righteousness. Today, take a step of faith in an area where you've been hesitant. Trust that God sees your heart and will honor your obedience, just as He did for Abraham.
Day 2: Returning to the Basics of Faith
Reading: Mark 12:28-34
Devotional: Jesus distills the entire law into two commandments: love God and love your neighbor. In a world of complex religious rules and expectations, these basics remain our foundation. Today, intentionally focus on expressing love for God through worship and prayer. Then, look for practical ways to show love to those around you. How might simplifying your faith to these core principles reinvigorate your spiritual life?
Day 3: Unity in Christ
Reading: Ephesians 4:1-16
Devotional: Paul emphasizes the importance of unity within the body of Christ. In a world rife with division, the church is called to model a different way. Reflect on any areas where you've allowed worldly divisions to affect your relationships with other believers. How can you actively work towards greater unity, even with those who differ from you? Consider reaching out to a fellow Christian you've been distant from and take a step towards reconciliation.
Day 4: Cultivating a Daily Relationship with God
Reading: Psalm 63:1-8
Devotional: David's passionate desire for God's presence is evident in this psalm. He likens his need for God to a physical thirst in a dry land. How would you describe your current hunger for God? Take time today to "seek God earnestly." This might involve extended prayer, meditation on Scripture, or simply sitting in God's presence. Ask God to deepen your daily awareness of and reliance on Him.
Day 5: Finding God's Presence in Suffering
Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11
Devotional: Paul speaks of the comfort we receive from God in our afflictions, which then enables us to comfort others. Reflect on a difficult season in your life. How did you experience God's presence during that time? If you're currently facing challenges, how might viewing them through the lens of this passage change your perspective? Consider sharing your story of God's comfort with someone who is struggling, allowing your experience to be a source of hope for others.
Day 1: Trusting God Completely
Reading: Genesis 22:1-19
Devotional: Abraham's willingness to sacrifice Isaac is a powerful example of emunah - complete trust in God. As you read this challenging passage, reflect on areas in your life where you struggle to fully trust God. What fears or doubts hold you back? Remember that God credited Abraham's faith as righteousness. Today, take a step of faith in an area where you've been hesitant. Trust that God sees your heart and will honor your obedience, just as He did for Abraham.
Day 2: Returning to the Basics of Faith
Reading: Mark 12:28-34
Devotional: Jesus distills the entire law into two commandments: love God and love your neighbor. In a world of complex religious rules and expectations, these basics remain our foundation. Today, intentionally focus on expressing love for God through worship and prayer. Then, look for practical ways to show love to those around you. How might simplifying your faith to these core principles reinvigorate your spiritual life?
Day 3: Unity in Christ
Reading: Ephesians 4:1-16
Devotional: Paul emphasizes the importance of unity within the body of Christ. In a world rife with division, the church is called to model a different way. Reflect on any areas where you've allowed worldly divisions to affect your relationships with other believers. How can you actively work towards greater unity, even with those who differ from you? Consider reaching out to a fellow Christian you've been distant from and take a step towards reconciliation.
Day 4: Cultivating a Daily Relationship with God
Reading: Psalm 63:1-8
Devotional: David's passionate desire for God's presence is evident in this psalm. He likens his need for God to a physical thirst in a dry land. How would you describe your current hunger for God? Take time today to "seek God earnestly." This might involve extended prayer, meditation on Scripture, or simply sitting in God's presence. Ask God to deepen your daily awareness of and reliance on Him.
Day 5: Finding God's Presence in Suffering
Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:3-11
Devotional: Paul speaks of the comfort we receive from God in our afflictions, which then enables us to comfort others. Reflect on a difficult season in your life. How did you experience God's presence during that time? If you're currently facing challenges, how might viewing them through the lens of this passage change your perspective? Consider sharing your story of God's comfort with someone who is struggling, allowing your experience to be a source of hope for others.