Watch Message Here: Descending Into Greatness Week 6
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the message.
Day 1: Embracing Our New Identity in Christ
Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-10
Devotional: Peter reminds us that in Christ, we have a new identity - we are "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession." Today, reflect on what it means to live out this new identity. How does knowing you are chosen and beloved by God change your perspective on daily challenges? Consider ways you can live as part of God's "royal priesthood" in your everyday interactions. Pray for God to help you fully embrace and live out your identity in Christ.
Day 2: Submitting to God's Authority
Reading: Romans 13:1-7
Devotional: The concept of submission can be challenging, but it's central to our walk with Christ. Today's passage reminds us that all authority comes from God. Reflect on areas in your life where you struggle to submit to God's authority. Are there "old boats" you keep returning to, rather than fully trusting God's plan? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas of resistance and pray for the strength to surrender those to God. Remember, true freedom comes when we submit to God's loving authority.
Day 3: Living Honorably Among Unbelievers
Reading: Matthew 5:13-16
Devotional: Jesus calls us to be "salt and light" in the world. This echoes Peter's instruction to "keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable." Today, consider how your daily conduct reflects Christ to those around you, especially to unbelievers. Are there ways you can more intentionally demonstrate Christ's love through your actions? Pray for opportunities to let your light shine and for the courage to take them when they arise.
Day 4: Finding Purpose in Suffering
Reading: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Devotional: Suffering is an inevitable part of life, but as believers, we can find purpose even in our trials. Peter encourages us not to be surprised by suffering but to rejoice as we share in Christ's sufferings. Reflect on a current struggle in your life. How might God be using this difficulty to refine your faith or to create opportunities for witness? Ask God for the strength to "entrust your soul to a faithful Creator while doing good," even in the midst of trials.
Day 5: Answering the Call to "Get Out of the Boat"
Reading: Matthew 14:22-33
Devotional: The story of Peter walking on water is a powerful reminder of what can happen when we step out in faith. Like Peter, Jesus is calling each of us to "get out of the boat" - to leave behind our comfort zones and fully trust Him. What is your "boat" - the safe, familiar place that Jesus is asking you to leave? Reflect on what's holding you back from fully following Christ's call. Pray for the faith to step out onto the water, keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus.
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the message.
Day 1: Embracing Our New Identity in Christ
Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-10
Devotional: Peter reminds us that in Christ, we have a new identity - we are "a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession." Today, reflect on what it means to live out this new identity. How does knowing you are chosen and beloved by God change your perspective on daily challenges? Consider ways you can live as part of God's "royal priesthood" in your everyday interactions. Pray for God to help you fully embrace and live out your identity in Christ.
Day 2: Submitting to God's Authority
Reading: Romans 13:1-7
Devotional: The concept of submission can be challenging, but it's central to our walk with Christ. Today's passage reminds us that all authority comes from God. Reflect on areas in your life where you struggle to submit to God's authority. Are there "old boats" you keep returning to, rather than fully trusting God's plan? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any areas of resistance and pray for the strength to surrender those to God. Remember, true freedom comes when we submit to God's loving authority.
Day 3: Living Honorably Among Unbelievers
Reading: Matthew 5:13-16
Devotional: Jesus calls us to be "salt and light" in the world. This echoes Peter's instruction to "keep your conduct among the Gentiles honorable." Today, consider how your daily conduct reflects Christ to those around you, especially to unbelievers. Are there ways you can more intentionally demonstrate Christ's love through your actions? Pray for opportunities to let your light shine and for the courage to take them when they arise.
Day 4: Finding Purpose in Suffering
Reading: 1 Peter 4:12-19
Devotional: Suffering is an inevitable part of life, but as believers, we can find purpose even in our trials. Peter encourages us not to be surprised by suffering but to rejoice as we share in Christ's sufferings. Reflect on a current struggle in your life. How might God be using this difficulty to refine your faith or to create opportunities for witness? Ask God for the strength to "entrust your soul to a faithful Creator while doing good," even in the midst of trials.
Day 5: Answering the Call to "Get Out of the Boat"
Reading: Matthew 14:22-33
Devotional: The story of Peter walking on water is a powerful reminder of what can happen when we step out in faith. Like Peter, Jesus is calling each of us to "get out of the boat" - to leave behind our comfort zones and fully trust Him. What is your "boat" - the safe, familiar place that Jesus is asking you to leave? Reflect on what's holding you back from fully following Christ's call. Pray for the faith to step out onto the water, keeping your eyes fixed on Jesus.
