The Life’s Answer

13 / Sun  | Read 1 John 2:1-2

Overview: It’s possible to know a lot about God without really knowing God. Turns out, we need an advocate. That would be Jesus, and therein lies the answer on to how to experience life to its fullest.

14 / Mon – The good news  |  Read John 17:1-3

Forgiveness, reconciliation, and eternal life are at the heart of the gospel message. The good news that Jesus preached concerning the kingdom of God was misunderstood by many who wanted political changes here on earth. Read Jesus’ definition of eternal life. How is this a little different from what you’ve thought in the past?  It is hard to love someone you don’t know very well. If you want to know God more deeply, ask. He is willing to show more of Himself to you.

15 / Tue – A broken heart?  |  Read Genesis 6:5-6 (NLT)

God is a person, and you are made in His image. You have feelings; so does He. Did you know it is possible to break His heart? Verse 6 in the New Living Translation is a poignant statement, another glimpse into God’s personality. What in v5 caused His heart to break? You know how patient and kind and good your God is. The drastic action He took next tells you how deep and treacherous sin is. Through Noah and his family, that sin stain carried over into the new world, but Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross neutralizes all sin for those who believe in and follow him.

16 / Wed – A common disappointment  |  Read Job 2:10 / Job 13:15a

You’ve heard it expressed and maybe even felt it yourself. Disappointment with God. Things didn’t go the way you wanted or needed them to go despite your fervent prayers and trust in the Lord’s ability to do the impossible. This story is a prime example of God not intervening, and yet Job didn’t give up on God. Do you know someone going through a difficult time? Encourage them not to give up. Job’s faithfulness proved that he served God for who He is, not for the benefits He provided, and it made God proud.

17 / Thu – Human nature vs your nature in Christ  |  Read Philippians 2:3-8

Humility is a rare treasure and sometimes difficult to find. In everyday situations, isn’t it easier to think you should be at the front of the line? Many times throughout the day, patience and humility are required to avoid a knee-jerk reaction when something unfair happens. It starts by challenging your mindset. Human nature’s default is I’m more important than others here or those rules don’t apply to me. Humility says that person is just as important as I am because they are also created in God’s image and need to be treated with respect for that reason alone. Does this help?

18 / Fri – Wait a minute!  |  Read 1 John 3:19-20

Is self-condemnation a problem in your life? It is a common way Satan sabotages many Christians. He subtly plants a tiny seed in your thoughts, bringing back memories of times you’ve failed and – boom – your brain goes wild, raining down self-accusations about your unworthiness in God’s eyes.    The first thing to do is a full stop! Ask yourself if these speculations are in line with the truth you know. Search the scriptures, see what God says. It will make the difference every time.

19 / Sat – You can be honest  |  Read Psalm 51:3-4 and 11-13

Being honest is important in any relationship, but especially between you and the Lord. Human nature can make us liars even when we realize God knows everything. If you wrestle with anger or a temptation or feeling inadequate for the task in front of you, and you are desperate to avoid it, don’t stuff your feelings. They only spurt out sideways and hurt others. Instead, be honest with the Lord. Pray: God, I feel_____but I will do_____. Please help me. He absolutely will!