1/12/2023 0 Comments We Are AccountableOur society loves to hold others accountable. It does not matter when someone said something or how much they have changed over the years, accountability has become the cancel culture. God is holding us accountable for the things we say. Every one of us will find ourselves guilty for we have all hurt others with our words. So how then does Jesus forgive us? Grace is a strange thing, especially when you realize you don’t deserve it.
Question 1: What does it mean to you to be accountable on judgment day? Question 2: How does forgiveness fit into this idea of accountability? Challenge: In your prayers today, ask for god’s forgiveness and also for his help.
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1/11/2023 0 Comments Fire!James 3:6 When we speak words of death, our tongues are set on fire by hell itself. When we speak words of life, it becomes an encouragement to everyone who hears it. We should want to have words of encouragement. We should want people to feel better about themselves and better about life and have a positive outlook as a result of our words to them.
Question 1: So why is it that I sometimes choose to curse those who have been made in the image of God? Question 2: What do you think it means to say your tongue is set on fire by hell itself? Challenge: If you speak a word of death this week, correct it when you realize you said it, even if it is a day or two later. This will be your word of life. 1/10/2023 0 Comments Everything an EncouragementWords that were once only said in private are now publicly shared and seen as normal. Curse words or foul language is part of the daily vernacular and is used as acceptable vocabulary to express feelings and emotions. There seems to be a debate on whether this trend is good or bad. In light of Ephesians 4:29 there are some that still believe this corse language is acceptable for the Christian today.
Question 1: Why do you think some people argue that curse words don’t matter Question 2: How would you make an argument for foul language being or not being good, helpful, or encouraging? Challenge: Try to give grace if you believe that foul language is foul and hear what the speaker is trying to say. Likewise, if you are fine with the newly accepted vocabulary, have sensitivity to those that don’t think like you do. 1/9/2023 0 Comments Words of Life and DeathSometimes you just want to say something even though you know it will sting the one to who it is directed or is in earshot of it. Something inside says it will feel great but in truth, it hurts us much like it hurt the one we said it to.
Strange how we tend to not say the things that would be so beneficial for someone to hear. It takes real training and discipline to be a thankful and grateful person. We tend to hold our tongues when we see someone do something good, even when we are the recipient of that good deed. Question 1: What words has your tongue formed this week? Question 2: What determines whether your words have life or death Challenge: Think back on last week and jot down how many conversations fell into each category…life or death. 1/4/2023 0 Comments Show Me the MoneyLuke 12:34 Our verse today is one of Jesus’ more familiar sayings. Our treasure reveals our hearts. If we want to know who and what are important to us, then we simply need to check our calendars and our bank accounts. How we spend our time, and our money is the litmus test on what’s important to us. And if we don’t like what we see or want to live out a different value in our lives, we simply need to align that value with our time and resources.
Question 1: Reflect on how you spend time in a normal week. Based on how you spend your time, what are your values? Question 2: Look through the last couple weeks of your bank statement. Based on how you spend your money, what are your values? Challenge: If managing time is a concern for you, email Brian to get a free resource to help you better track your time. 1/3/2023 0 Comments BoundariesHave nothing more to do with them. Those are some strong words from Paul. Sure, the miracle you’re working for this year may not require you to “have nothing to do” with some people in your life. However, when it comes to your goal, you’re wise to limit the influence of people who don’t share that goal (or worse, oppose your goal). If your goal is your faith, you’ll want to limit the influence of people who don’t share your faith. If your goal is a healthier marriage, you’ll want to limit the advice from people who aren’t in a healthy marriage themselves.
Question 1: What are some boundaries you’ve had in your past relationships? Question 2: Are there any boundaries you need to set with your current relationships? Challenge: Dr. Cloud is the wizard when it comes to boundaries in relationships. Check out the book Boundaries or watch this video for more information. 1/2/2023 0 Comments Who's Your 5?The author Jim Rohn said we’re the average of the five people we spend the most amount of time with. In today’s scripture, Solomon reminds us that if we walk with the wise, we’ll be wise. And if we have fools in our inner circle? Well, we’ll suffer harm. When you look at a miracle you want to experience this year, who in your inner circle can help you?
Question 1: Who are your five people? Question 2: What changes might you need to make to your five to achieve your miracle for 2023? Challenge: Show your gratitude for your five people. Send ‘em a text or drop a note in the mail expressing your appreciation for their influence in your life. |
AuthorThis devotional is written every week by Hillcrest members. Archives
April 2024
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