Sunday, September 3, 2023
As you read this today, I encourage you to pause and consider how God is inviting you to live out the weekend message in the week to come.
To begin, take a few moments to sit quietly before God. Set aside any distractions, close your eyes, and take a few slow deep breaths. With each exhalation, give him your worries and concerns and let his peace wash over you.
Next, take some time to read the verses below and explore the questions that follow. You can do this on your own or with others.
Read Matthew 5:43-45 (NKJV)
43 “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ 44 But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you, 45 that you may be sons of your Father in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.”
Romans 5:7-8
7 Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners.
What do you learn about God in these verses?
What do you learn about loving your enemy as Christ loved you?
What do you think God may be trying to teach you through these verses?
Finally, consider recording your responses in a journal, whether digital or hardcopy. It's a great way to be able to look back on the adventure God has you on.
Prayer: Day 21 - To Fill My Heart With Praise and Worship (Jeremiah 20:13)
God, we praise you for the things you have done to show us your love, and we worship you for who you are. May there be a moment each day where we’re given the opportunity to show the world how thankful we are for your love and grace. Thank you, God, for stirring up our passion for you each day. May our lives reflect your glory and the transforming power of your love.
Series Theme Verse:
1 John 4:10-11
10 This is real love—not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as a sacrifice to take away our sins. 11 Dear friends, since God loved us that much, we surely ought to love each other.
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Discussion Questions:
Icebreaker: Who is your favorite fictional villain?
What do you think people find most challenging about loving their enemies?
Read Matthew 5:43-45 (NKJV). What do you learn in these verses?
Using Romans 12:17-21 as a guide, what are some practical ways you can love your enemies?
In the message, we were challenged to pray for our enemies for 30 days. What is one thing you can pray for yours this week?
This post was written by Kelly Pagel, Director of the LivingItOut Devotional.