5-Day Sermon Devotion

Day 1: The Depth of God's Love Reading: Mark 10:17-22 Devotional: As we read about Jesus' encounter with the rich young man, we're struck by a profound truth: "Jesus, looking at him, loved him." Despite the man's self-righteousness and misunderstanding, Jesus responded with love. This mirrors God's love for us – unconditional and ever-present, even when we fail to recognize our own shortcomings. Today, reflect on moments when you've felt undeserving of God's love. How does knowing that Jesus looks at you with love, regardless of your flaws, change your perspective? Ask God to help you internalize His deep, abiding love for you.

Day 2: The Nature of True Faith Reading: James 2:14-26 Devotional: The rich young man claimed to have kept all the commandments, yet his faith was incomplete. James reminds us that faith without works is dead. True faith isn't about perfectly following rules, but about a transformative relationship with God that changes our hearts and actions. Consider areas in your life where your faith might be more about following rules than truly following Christ. How can you move beyond a checklist mentality to a faith that actively seeks to love God and others? Pray for God to deepen your faith and show you ways to live it out more fully.

Day 3: Understanding Salvation Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10 Devotional: The rich young man asked, "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" His question reveals a common misconception – that we can earn our salvation. Paul's words to the Ephesians clarify that salvation is a gift of God's grace, not something we can achieve through our own efforts. Reflect on times you've tried to "earn" God's favor. How does embracing the truth of salvation by grace alone change your approach to your relationship with God? Thank God for His freely given gift of salvation and ask for help in living in response to this grace.

Day 4: Letting Go of Idols Reading: Matthew 6:19-24 Devotional: Jesus challenged the rich young man to sell his possessions, revealing the man's true idol – wealth. We all have potential idols in our lives – things we trust in or value more than God. Jesus' words in Matthew remind us to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth. What might be your "great possessions" that hold you back from fully following Christ? It could be material wealth, reputation, comfort, or something else. Ask God to reveal any idols in your life and for the courage to let them go, trusting Him above all else.

Day 5: Following Christ in Daily Life Reading: Luke 9:23-26 Devotional: Jesus' invitation to the rich young man was simple yet profound: "Follow me." This call extends to us today. Following Christ isn't just about believing the right things; it's about daily choosing to align our lives with His will and ways. Luke's passage reminds us that this often involves self-denial and taking up our cross. Reflect on what following Jesus looks like in your everyday life. What specific choices can you make today to more closely follow Christ? Pray for the Holy Spirit's guidance and strength to live as a true disciple in all aspects of your life.