5 Day Devo
Sermon by Pastor Danny Eggold
Day 1: The Persistence of Prayer
Reading: Luke 18:1-8
Devotional: Jesus' parable of the persistent widow teaches us about the importance of never losing heart in prayer. Today, reflect on your prayer life. Are there areas where you've given up or lost hope? Remember that you belong to our Heavenly Father through Baptism, and He is far more just and loving than the unjust judge in the parable. He hears every prayer and responds with perfect timing and wisdom. Take time to bring your persistent prayers before God, trusting in His goodness and perfect plan for your life.
Day 2: God's Fatherly Love
Reading: Matthew 7:7-11
Devotional: The sermon emphasizes that when we pray, we're speaking to a loving Father, not an indifferent judge. Today's reading reinforces this truth. Reflect on how you view God. Is He a distant authority or a loving Father? How might your prayer life change if you embraced God's fatherly love for you? Take a moment to approach your Father in prayer today as you would approach His Table, with open hands and a trusting heart.
Day 3: Praying at All Times
Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Devotional: Pastor Danny mentions praying at night when worries wake us up. Paul encourages us to "pray without ceasing." This doesn't mean non-stop verbal prayer, but rather a constant attitude of communion with God. Today, practice being aware of God's presence throughout your day, abiding in you through His Spirit and strengthening you with His Word. Turn your thoughts to Him in moments of joy, stress, or mundane tasks. How might this continual connection with God transform your daily life?
Day 4: Trusting God's Answer
Reading: Isaiah 55:8-9
Devotional: When we pray, God gives us what we ask for or something better. Reflect on a time when God's answer to prayer was different from what you expected but ultimately proved to be for your good. How can you entrust yourself to God's judgment, even when His answers don't match your expectations?
Day 5: Intercessory Prayer
Reading: Ephesians 6:18-20
Devotional: Pastor Danny encourages praying for others: family, church leaders, and even strangers. Today, focus on intercessory prayer. As you pray for others today, remember that you are part of Christ’s living body, joined to all believers through Baptism and fed together at His Table. In His presence, no one you pray for is ever forgotten. Make a list of people in your life, both close to you and those you may not know well, and spend time lifting them up to God.