5-Day Devo

Pastor Nate Widener • July 21, 2025

"Martha, Martha, Martha" by Pastor Nate Widener

Day 1: Overcoming Anxiety with God's Presence Reading: Psalm 27:1-5 Devotional: In a world filled with uncertainties, it's easy to become overwhelmed by anxiety. Yet, as David reminds us, "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?" When we truly grasp the magnitude of God's presence in our lives, fear begins to lose its grip. Today, reflect on the areas of your life where anxiety tends to creep in. How might focusing on God's unwavering presence change your perspective? Remember, just as He was a stronghold for David, He remains your refuge today. Consider writing down your fears and then countering each with a truth about God's character or a promise from His Word.


Day 2: Choosing the Better Portion Reading: Luke 10:38-42 Devotional: Martha's bustling activity and Mary's quiet attentiveness present us with a powerful contrast. In our fast-paced world, it's all too easy to become "anxious and troubled about many things." Yet Jesus gently reminds us that only one thing is truly necessary. Today, examine your own life. Are you more often like Martha, caught up in the details and tasks, or like Mary, prioritizing time at Jesus' feet? Challenge yourself to carve out dedicated time today to simply sit in God's presence, listening for His voice.


Day 3: Seeking God's Face in Every Circumstance Reading: Psalm 27:7-14 Devotional: "Seek my face," God says, and our hearts long to respond. In times of trouble and in times of joy, our primary orientation should always be toward God. Today's passage encourages us to actively pursue God's presence and guidance in every circumstance. Reflect on your current situation. How might you more intentionally seek God's face in your daily routines, decisions, and challenges? Remember David's confident assertion: "I believe that I shall look upon the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living!"


Day 4: The God Who Understands Our Pain Reading: Hebrews 4:14-16 Devotional: One of the most profound truths of Christianity is that we have a God who intimately understands human suffering. Jesus, in His incarnation, experienced the full range of human emotions and trials. When anxiety, pain, or sorrow threaten to overwhelm us, we can turn to a Savior who truly empathizes. Today, meditate on the ways Jesus experienced human struggle during His earthly ministry. How does knowing that He understands your pain personally affect your approach to difficult times? Take time to pour out your heart to Him, knowing that He listens with perfect understanding and offers grace to help in your time of need.


Day 5: Patience in the Journey of Faith Reading: James 1:2-8 Devotional: The Christian life is often described as a journey, and like any journey, it requires patience. James encourages us to view trials as opportunities for growth, producing steadfastness in our faith. When we face anxious moments or prolonged periods of waiting, it's an invitation to deepen our trust in God's timing and purposes. Today, consider the areas of your life where you're struggling to be patient. How might God be using these situations to refine your faith? Ask for the wisdom James promises, believing that God gives generously to all who ask. As you wait, actively look for signs of God's work in your life, knowing that He is always moving, even when we can't see it.

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, I hope this note finds you well and encouraged in the Lord. St. Peter’s continues to be a place where God is at work through our preschool, school, various ministries, and the daily faithfulness of His people. I am grateful to serve the Lord with you in this place! As we continue to serve together, I want to update you on changes in our church office and ministry staff. As many of you know, Michelle Leahy has been serving as our “Interim Director of Operations,” providing support and coordination across many areas of congregational life. In the coming weeks, Michelle will be stepping into a new role, “Executive Director.” This means her work will shift from hands-on ministry support to more administrative leadership and oversight of the church office, properties, finances, and technology. This is an important step for us as a congregation as we continue to support our staff and serve our members. With this change, we want to ensure that daily ministry needs are met. After reviewing our current staffing and budget, we can make an adjustment that supports the ongoing ministry without increasing costs. To that end, Kami Jo Mogelvang will expand her role to serve as “Church Ministry Coordinator.” Many of you have already seen Kami Jo assisting Pastor McDowell in youth ministry two days each week. Under the new alignment, she will: Continue serving in youth ministry, and Help coordinate ministry efforts and volunteer connections with Pastor Nate and Pastor McDowell across the congregation. This will help us strengthen volunteer support and the many “connecting points” that help our church family care for one another. As Kami Jo transitions out of her receptionist duties, this change will open about 18 hours per week at the front desk, which we have posted. This staffing arrangement stays within our approved 2025 budget. I am thankful for Michelle, Kami Jo, our staff, and all our volunteers. I also appreciate the spirit of grace and partnership that marks our congregation. Please keep our staff and ministry leaders in your prayers as we move through these transitions. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for the privilege of serving Christ with you! In Christ, Pastor Danny Eggold St. Peter’s Lutheran Church & School
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