5-Day Sermon Devotion 1/12/2025

Day 1: Called by Name

Reading: Isaiah 43:1-7

Devotional: God's intimate love for us is beautifully expressed in Isaiah 43:1, "Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine." Today, reflect on the profound truth that the Creator of the universe knows you personally. He doesn't just know about you; He knows you. In your baptism, God claimed you as His own, bringing you into His family. Take a moment to imagine God speaking your name with love and tenderness. How does this change your perspective on your relationship with Him? Today, walk confidently in the knowledge that you belong to God, and He delights in you.

Day 2: The Power of Baptism

Reading: Romans 6:1-11

Devotional:  In baptism, we are united with Christ in His death and resurrection. This isn't just a symbolic act, but a powerful spiritual reality. As you read Romans 6, consider the transformative power of your baptism. You have died to sin and been raised to new life in Christ. This isn't a one-time event, but a daily reality we can claim. When you face temptation or struggle with sin, remember that in Christ, you have the power to overcome. Today, consciously "consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ Jesus" (Romans 6:11). How might this change your approach to the challenges you face?

Day 3: God's Presence in Suffering

Reading: Isaiah 43:1-3; Psalm 23

Devotional:  "When you pass through the waters, I will be with you" (Isaiah 43:2). Life often brings trials that feel like overwhelming floods or scorching fires. Yet God promises to be with us through it all. He doesn't always remove the difficulty, but He walks through it with us. Reflect on times in your life when you've felt God's presence during hardship. How did He sustain you? The psalmist reminds us that even in the valley of the shadow of death, we need fear no evil because God is with us. Today, if you're facing a challenge, invite God's presence into that situation. If life is calm, pray for those you know who are struggling.

Day 4: The Assurance of Salvation

Reading: John 10:27-30; Ephesians 1:13-14

Devotional:  Jesus assures us that no one can snatch us out of His hand. Our salvation is secure not because of our own efforts, but because of God's power and faithfulness. The Holy Spirit, given to us in baptism, is a seal and guarantee of our inheritance in Christ. How does this assurance impact your daily life? Does it free you to serve God more boldly, knowing your eternal destiny is secure? Today, thank God for the gift of salvation and the indwelling Holy Spirit. Let this assurance empower you to live courageously for Christ.

Day 5: Living as God's Chosen People

Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-10; Colossians 3:12-17

Devotional: Through baptism, we have become part of God's chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. This identity comes with both privilege and responsibility. We are called to "proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). How can you live out this calling today? Colossians 3 gives us practical guidance: clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Today, choose one of these qualities to focus on. Ask God to help you embody this characteristic as you interact with others, reflecting the love of Christ to a world in need.