(Begin with 1-2 minutes of silence)
Ephesians 3:19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.
With the beginning of a New Year often comes moments of personal reflection. You may be considering questions such as:
- What do I want to do different this year?
- How do I want to live different this year?
- What changes do I need to make to be healthier — physically, emotionally, and spiritually?
The unfortunate reality is that when it comes to “New Years Resolutions” many will give it a good effort for at least a week or two. But then old habits and rhythms come back, and thoughts of “Maybe next year,” begin to surface.
There are many reasons this pattern occurs, but one of the primary reasons is that people rely on their own willpower to experience life change. But real life change, real transformation occurs when we allow Jesus Christ to root out what’s deep beneath the surface in our lives. The fulness of life comes from recognizing His love and grace for us.
READING & PRAYERS:
EPHESIANS 3:19, 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17, HEBREWS 4:16 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What changes do you need to make in your daily schedule so that you can reflect on and experience the love and grace of God each day this week?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Repeating breath prayers for a few minutes each day is one way to slow down and connect with God. Consider repeating a brief prayer for 2 minutes at the beginning and end of each devotional reading this week. Some examples include: “Lord Jesus, have mercy on me, a sinner.” “Speak Lord, I am listening.” “You are the potter, I am the clay.” “Peace. Be still.”
Take a Step: This week, continue to utilize the One Minute Pause app at least twice daily to begin practicing being with God and resting in His presence. The app is free, and is available on iPhone and Android devices. See pauseapp.com for details.
PRAYER: Take a few minutes to practice one of the breath prayers noted above.
(End with 1-2 minutes of silence)
south ridge blog 