Monday Sept 15th
Called and Beloved
Reading: Romans 1:1-7, Paul, a servant of Christ Jesus, called to be an apostle, set apart for the gospel of God, 2 which he promised beforehand through his prophets in the holy Scriptures, 3 concerning his Son, who was descended from David according to the flesh 4 and was declared to be the Son of God in power according to the Spirit of holiness by his resurrection from the dead, Jesus Christ our Lord, 5 through whom we have received grace and apostleship to bring about the obedience of faith for the sake of his name among all the nations, 6 including you who are called to belong to Jesus Christ, 7 To all those in Rome who are loved by God and called to be saints
Jude 1:1-2 1 The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave him to show to his servants the things that must soon take place. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, 2 who bore witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ, even to all that he saw.
Devotional: God's love for us is not based on our performance or worthiness, but on His sovereign choice. As we read in Jude, we are "called, beloved in God the Father, and kept for Jesus Christ." This profound truth should anchor our identity and give us unshakeable confidence. Reflect on what it means to be beloved by God. How does this change your perspective on your daily struggles and challenges? Today, let God's love wash over you, reminding yourself that you are cherished beyond measure, not because of what you've done, but because of who He is.
Tuesday Sept 16th
Contending for the Faith
Reading: Ephesians 6:10-18 10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. 11 Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. 12 For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. 13 Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm. 14 Stand therefore, having fastened on the belt of truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, 15 and, as shoes for your feet, having put on the readiness given by the gospel of peace. 16 In all circumstances take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming darts of the evil one; 17 and take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, 18 praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints,
Devotional: Jude urges believers to "contend for the faith." This isn't a call to argumentative behavior, but to stand firm in the truth of the Gospel. In a world of shifting values and relative truths, we're called to be anchored in God's unchanging Word. How can you "contend for the faith" in your daily life? It might mean speaking truth in love, living out your convictions consistently, or deepening your understanding of Scripture. Remember, our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces of evil. Arm yourself with the full armor of God, especially the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
Wednesday Sept 17th
Perseverance in Christ
Reading: John 10:27-30,27 My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. 28 I give them eternal life, and they will never perish, and no one will snatch them out of my hand. 29 My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all, and no one is able to snatch them out of the Father’s hand. 30 I and the Father are one.”
Devotional: One of the most comforting truths of the Gospel is that we are "kept" by God. Nothing can snatch us out of His hand. This doesn't mean our lives will be free from trouble, but it does mean that God will preserve us through every trial. Reflect on times when you've felt God's preserving power in your life. How has He kept you through difficult seasons? Let this assurance embolden you to face today's challenges, knowing that the same God who has kept you thus far will continue to hold you fast.
Thursday Sept 18th
Grace and Holiness
Reading: Titus 2:11-14 11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, 12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, 13 waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.
Devotional: God's grace is not a license to sin, but a call to holiness. As recipients of God's unmerited favor, we're empowered to live lives that reflect His character. This doesn't mean perfection, but it does mean progress. Where in your life do you need to grow in holiness? Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where you've become complacent about sin. Remember, growth in holiness is not about earning God's love, but about living out your new identity in Christ. Let God's grace motivate you to pursue righteousness today.
Friday Sept 20th
Unity in the Body of Christ
Reading: Ephesians 4:1-6 1 I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, 2 with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, 3 eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call— 5 one Lord, one faith, one baptism, 6 one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.
Devotional: In a world marked by division, the unity of believers is a powerful testimony to the transforming power of the Gospel. Jesus said the world would know we are His disciples by our love for one another. How can you contribute to unity within your local church and the broader body of Christ? This might mean reaching out to someone you've had conflict with, serving in a new capacity, or simply praying for other believers. Remember, our unity is not based on uniformity of opinion on every issue, but on our shared faith in Christ. Let your love for fellow believers be a light that draws others to Jesus.