10/16/2020 0 Comments Be StillIn this busy, stressful and chaotic time, it is important to take time to truly be still and know He is God. Many times our prayers are a one sided conversation, and we don't take the time to truly listen to what He has to say to us. Schedules, busyness and activities can be beneficial and make our lives full, but don't forget to listen to the one who needs time in your schedule the most.
Questions for further thought: 1. Is there something in your life you have prayed about, but are too busy to hear the answer? 2. Think about how you spend your time. Are you taking a few moments to listen to the one who created you? Challenge: As you go through each day, take a few moments to pray and spend some time in quiet reflection about your life and the things you are looking for answers about. Most likely He has the answers for you; He is just waiting for you to take some time and listen.
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10/15/2020 0 Comments Fear Not!Fear and doubt are common human emotions when we go through difficult experiences in our lives. In this passage, we are called to draw on His strength and power to overcome these feelings and emotions. It is true that if we apply the instructions in these verses, our lives won't necessarily be easier, but we will experience much more peace and composure in hard times. Fear and doubt have the ability to paralyze us and do not allow us to positively affect those around us. God wants to comfort us so he can show His love to others.
Questions for further thought: 1. What items or events in your life create fear and doubt? 2. What are you doing to prevent fear and doubt from affecting you in a negative way? Challenge: Having a support system of fellow Christians is very important when the inevitable storms of life hit. If you don't have this in your life, take steps to get into a small group where you can connect with other believers. 10/14/2020 1 Comment Agree to DisagreeIn this time of political unrest, it is very difficult to remain loving to those who hold radically different views. I am reminded of the saying, “you need to agree to disagree.” This is relevant in the political realm as well, to a point. It is important we carry ourselves in a way that honors God even when debating political views.
Questions for further thought: 1. Who in your life is challenging you in this politically charged time? 2. How can you show them the issues are important, but they as a person are more important? Challenge: Spend some time in prayer asking God who to vote for and what specific issues to pay attention to. He is ultimately in power and control, but we need to be aware of things happening in our country as well. He will give you wisdom! 10/13/2020 0 Comments Obey Our GovernmentThis passage is challenging to me when I consider some of the laws that are in place in our country today. We are to follow the laws of the land but what if the laws are contrary to what God teaches? God is always in control and working in and through those in power. I believe most laws are for our good, but some are immoral and not aligned with God.
Questions for further thought: 1. What is one law in place in our country that you don't agree with? 2. What can you do personally to bring change? Challenge: I think we can all think of laws we would like to see changed. We can elect leaders that may bring change, but prayerfully consider what God may be leading you to do to make that change. 10/12/2020 0 Comments Back to GodWatching the news, social media and the state of our country today, it can be easy to become frustrated and discouraged. In many ways our country is great and outstanding, but in some areas, we are far from God. It can seem hopeless at times when trying to influence our country to return to God and His teachings. The problems seem so big and at times we feel small and powerless.
Questions for further thought: 1. In what ways can you make a difference in your realm of influence? 2. How is God leading you personally to affect change? Challenge: We can all do something to change our world and help point others to Him. God calls some to the political world to make change, but most of us are called to bring about change on a more personal level. Think about your family, co-workers, classmates, friends, and your interactions with them. Make a difference in our world today, one person at a time. 10/9/2020 0 Comments For the BeautyPsalm 96 speaks of the earth, not as an object, but as something that is able to sing praises to God. Even in taking a simple hike, it is unquestionable how the earth sings God’s praises. All the different plants and trees with their changing colors, the streams, rivers and lakes all sing to the glory of their maker.
Questions for further thought: 1. What is a place in nature where you feel a spiritual connection? 2. What is it about that place that helps you connect spiritually? Challenge: If your special place is close by, make time this week to visit it and listen as the earth sings God’s praises. 10/8/2020 0 Comments ParadiseJesus disciples had left their homes behind to go and follow Him. Jesus knew the desire in their hearts to have a place to call home. In John 14, Jesus told his disciples he would be leaving the earth. He told them he was going to make an eternal home for those who believe in Him. This home will be filled with the presence of God. Joy will be experienced like never before.
Questions for further thought: 1. Do you know Jesus as your savior? 2. If not, what is keeping you from accepting Jesus? Challenge: Read all of John 14. 10/7/2020 0 Comments By ChanceRomans 1 tells us that every person on the planet - past, present and future - has some knowledge of God that He has placed on their heart. Watch the instinct of any animal or the amazing things our bodies can do that have left even the most intelligent doctors puzzled. God’s mighty power and divine ways can clearly be seen in all the things He has created.
Questions for further thought: 1. How can you see God in your daily life? 2. Has there ever been something that has happened to you or someone you knew that was undeniably God? Challenge: Pay extra attention as fall and winter set in, to the amazing ways God’s creatures prepare for it. 10/6/2020 0 Comments Every KneeWe have all read, witnessed or talked personally with someone who has denied Jesus. Some can be extremely vocal about it. Sometimes Christians can feel anger towards their denial, taking it personally, like somehow they are denying us or our intelligence. When God says “every knee will bow” no one will be smugly looking at their neighbor who rejected their faith. We will all be equal, bowing before God and God alone.
Questions for further thought: 1. Have you ever had a heated debate with someone who refuses to believe in Jesus? 2. How can we change anger into love? Challenge: Think about one or two things you could say the next time you get into a discussion with an unbeliever that will challenge real thought rather than anger. 10/5/2020 0 Comments True PeaceI have always been prone to worry. National and world events are usually what set me off. Unfortunately, there will always be contentious elections, financial meltdowns and ongoing violence and unrest. There are definitely things I can do to help ease some crisis and help others that have been affected. But remember that our peace will never come from this world, and it is not our home.
Questions for further thought: 1. What type of things cause worry to set in for you? 2. What have been some ways you have conquered worry in the past? Challenge: Look up verses about “worry,” and focus on memorizing one that you don’t already know this week. |
AuthorThis devotional is written every week by Hillcrest members. Archives
March 2024
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