5-Day Sermon Devotion
Sermon by Pastor Paul Dancy
Day 1: True Blessedness
Reading: Luke 6:20-26
Devotional: Jesus' Beatitudes challenge our worldly perceptions of success and happiness. Today, reflect on what it means to be "blessed" in God's eyes versus the world's standards. How might your perspective shift if you viewed poverty of spirit, hunger for righteousness, and even persecution as signs of God's favor? Consider areas in your life where you may be clinging to worldly comforts instead of seeking God's kingdom. Pray for a heart that values what God values, finding true blessedness in your relationship with Him, and in His salvation, we find in His Word and Sacraments.
Day 2: The Riches of God's Kingdom
Reading: Matthew 6:19-24
Devotional: Jesus warns about the dangers of earthly treasures and the love of money. Today, examine your own heart. Where are your treasures truly stored? Are there material possessions or worldly pursuits that are competing with your devotion to God? Remember, true wealth is found in knowing Christ and storing up treasures in heaven. Ask God to help you loosen your grip on earthly riches and instead invest in eternal things – acts of love, service, and sharing the gospel. Our greatest treasure in the forgiveness that Christ won for us on the cross.
Day 3: Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness
Reading: Matthew 5:6, John 6:35-40
Devotional: Just as our bodies crave food and water, our souls were designed to hunger for God's righteousness. Are you truly hungry for God's presence and His ways? Or have you been filling up on the "junk food" of worldly pleasures and distractions? Today, intentionally "feast" on God's word. Meditate on Scripture, spend extended time in prayer, and ask the Holy Spirit to increase your spiritual appetite. Remember that Jesus, Our Savior, is the Bread of Life who alone can satisfy our deepest longings.
Day 4: Godly Sorrow and True Joy
Reading: 2 Corinthians 7:8-11, Psalm 30:4-5
Devotional: The world tells us to avoid pain and pursue happiness at all costs. Yet Scripture speaks of a "godly sorrow" that leads to repentance and salvation. Today, allow the Holy Spirit to search your heart. Are there sins you've been ignoring or rationalizing? Take time to confess and truly repent, knowing that God's forgiveness brings deep, lasting joy. Remember that our temporary sorrows will one day give way to eternal rejoicing in God's presence.
Day 5: Blessed in Persecution
Reading: Matthew 5:10-12, Acts 5:40-42
Devotional: Following Jesus faithfully may lead to rejection or persecution from the world. While this is painful, Jesus calls it a blessing. Today, examine your life. Are there ways you've compromised your faith to avoid conflict or maintain popularity? Ask God for courage to stand firm in your convictions, even when it's difficult. Pray for persecuted believers around the world, and consider how you can support them. Remember that any suffering for Christ's sake is temporary, but our heavenly reward is eternal. Even if we deny Him, at times, by our words or actions, He will never deny His children when they repent and ask for forgiveness.
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