GPS-Herman Beach

JUL 20 / Sunday Read Genesis 6-9

Overview: Beaches are those places where the water meets the land, and where God’s power faces the forces of chaos and defeats them. Even when the beach seems to have disappeared.

21 / Mon – Odd or God?  |  Read Genesis 6:5-8

Sometimes you go to the beach. Other times, the beach comes to you. That was Noah’s story. In spite of the wickedness around him, Noah could still hear when God spoke to him. And he obeyed. You can imagine people’s response as they watched him build the ark on dry land. (Note: you can walk through a life-sized model @ Ark Encounter). Do you sense God asking you to do something odd? Don’t be too quick to dismiss it. He may be preparing you for a future event. Take time to consider, to pray on it, to test it, maybe run it by godly people you trust. Then go for it.

22 / Tue – Requirements  |  Read Mark 8:34 / Galatians 5:24-25

In the Old Testament, God gave His people rules and guidelines. In the New Testament, He sent them an example. Jesus lived out a righteous life. He asked others to follow him, and they did. What does it look like for you to follow Jesus today? Do you listen and learn from his words in the Book? Do you guard your thoughts and words? What does it mean to deny yourself? What is the cross you are called to carry? If you love him, you will do anything for him, right?

23 / Wed – Side benefits  |  Read John 10:10 / John 10:27-30 / Psalm 23:1-4

Is it hard to follow Jesus? Sometimes. Maybe lots of times. Some say it’s not worth it because you have to give up so much. But consider what you gain, besides getting the best friend you’ll ever have. His love is solid. He’s already walked this way before, so he is the perfect guide. No one can snatch you out of his hand. You learn to see yourself as he does. When you need peace, he gives you his. And best of all, you get to spend eternity with him forever. No goodbyes. It is worth it!

24 / Thu – Beach babies  |  Read Ephesians 4:13-14 / Colossians 2:4-8

Babies are fun to watch at the beach. Some get a little too brave and have to be rescued, but they learn. Paul lived in Ephesus for three years, preaching the gospel, teaching new believers, and helping them grow. One of those believers started the church in Colossae. How did Paul describe immature Christians in both letters he later wrote to them? What is one of their greatest dangers? Do you see any of that going on today? How can you avoid being ‘tossed around’ spiritually?

25 / Fri – Yes, but…  |  Read Luke 9:57-62 NLT

Some people said they wanted to follow Jesus but didn’t follow through…(paraphrasing here) “Oh, you are a traveling rabbi and I’d be on the road? Well, that doesn’t work for me.”  Another said, “Let me go and bury my father.” (His dad was still living since people were buried the same day they died.) Still another…“I need to say farewell to my family.” (He wouldn’t be leaving them forever.) What are some ‘reasons’ you’ve heard others express? Are you tempted, at times, to excuse yourself from fully following Jesus? What keeps you going?

26 / Sat – High-seas adventure  |  Read Psalm 107:23-31 / Psalm 9:1-2

There are still 132 days until Thanksgiving, but today is a good time to review your blessings and also remember how God has helped you through hard times. Write as many as you can below. Be specific, then take time to express your gratitude, first to the Lord and then to others.