Heart Dive 365

Dear God, we are so incredibly in need of your power and your strength. We ask that you would fill us with your Spirit of love and unity among believers all around our world. We ask for your help to set aside our differences and look to the greater cause, the cause of Christ. Please help us to truly live out a life of love. We know that this is only possible through the power of your Spirit, so we ask that you would move across our land in miraculous ways, with fresh filling and awareness, turning your people back to you, drawing others to come to know you.

We need your unity and your love to stir our hearts and give direction to our days. We need your wisdom to guide us, we need your Spirit to lead us, to live out godly lives that would bring honor first to you. We thank you that you are always with us; and give us great purpose and hope. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

2024-Heart Dive 365 - 365 Days through the Bible in one year with Kanoe Gibson

An enriching journey through the Bible, meticulously studying each chapter and unraveling its profound wisdom. Extensive notes, insights, and reflections for every chapter.

1 Corinthians 9, In his letter to the church in Corinth, Paul defends his credentials as an apostle. He declares that all that he does is always for the kingdom of God. He implores the people to examine where his authority comes from and how he has tended to their spiritual welfare.

Paul sees his apostleship as a career and provides an argument for why he believes the churches he shepherds should fund his missionary work.

1 Corinthians 10, Paul writes to the church to avoid the temptation of idolatry and sexual immorality. He recalls the Israelites in the wilderness with Moses and how thousands perished despite all they saw the Lord do for them. He writes to remind the church who deserves all the glory and for whom they live their lives.

1 Corinthians 11, Paul writes about order and headship among men, women, and Christ. He provides an example of head coverings as he relates the relationship men and women were designed to have with each other.

He asks that the church abandon division and see one another as equals as they partake in the Lord's Supper and share meals in their assemblies.

There is no direct command from Jesus that is explicitly stated in the Bible that says to pay your preacher, yet Paul tells us He said it, so we must believe He said it. And Paul will continue to emphasize that the church, meaning the people, have the responsibility to support those who are ministering to them spiritually. This wasn’t him dropping a hint in any way to get them to give him money. He was simply showing them that the work anyone does spiritually was to be materially valued and appreciated. Heart Check.

How do you value those who minister to you? How do you show your appreciation for them?

Preaching the gospel was Paul’s gift and calling, and this was evident by the passion he felt for it and also the fruit that was born from it (the believing Corinthians). One of the best ways for us to figure out what our gifts and calling are is to take a look at what burns in us. Heart Check.

Do you know your calling? What would make you rather die than to be deprived of? How can you use it for the glory of God?

Because there were a lot of religious entrepreneurs who were preaching to live rather than living to preach, Paul relinquished his right to ask for offerings to avoid any skepticism, doubt, and not to be an obstacle. It should never be said, “I can’t afford to go to church or Bible study, because they’re always asking for money.”

This didn’t take away from the fact that he did have the right to ask, but his burning passion to bring the gospel to as many people as possible outweighed his desire to earn a paycheck. He also gave up the right to be married. Many of us may sit here and think we can’t relate because we don’t do ministry for a living, or we are already married. But we can relate when we ask ourselves… Heart Check.

What rights would you be willing to relinquish? Would you be willing to give up whatever He asked of you for the sake of the call?

Paul was a bridge-builder. He would meet people where they were at so that walls would come down and so that he could identify with them. It’s important to point out that he never compromised in any way by doing so, nor did he water down the gospel (with perhaps the exception of Athens, from which we believe he learned his lesson). He simply knew his audience and he changed his presentation to better appeal to them but he never changed the message.

We, too, should meet people where they are. We can’t go to every person and hit them over the head with the Bible. There may need to be some warming up and some relation that is built before you can show them scripture. We preach best by the way we live and love first. Heart Check.

How are you building bridges with those around you? Are you meeting people where they are to help them see Jesus?

Corinth was a mecca for sports, only second to Olympia, where the Olympics in that day were held. In fact, Corinth had the Isthmian games, which were very similar. So Paul used athletes as an analogy, because he knew they would get it. Through this, he illustrated that Christian living is not a walk in the park, but more like a run through the gauntlet. It requires self-discipline, self-denial, and hard work if you want to win the crown.

There are likely very few athletes who ended up on top that did not live and breathe their sport. They are probably some of the most disciplined people on earth, saying no to a lot of things, recognizing and working through their weaknesses, and sacrificing in order to zone in on their craft.

Paul saw the Christian race in the same light. He refused to allow his body to rule his spirit, and he knew this would require major discipline. He was probably sleep-deprived and he likely gave up a lot of his own desires and ability to do leisurely things so that he could be a slave to Christ. But he did so with his eye on the heavenly prize, and this is why he was able to redirect his weaknesses into strength. Heart Check.

How is your self-discipline? Does your body rule your whole being? Or are you able to practice self-control and live with intentionality in every area of your life?

Even though we don’t deal with temples or statues as forms of idolatry, modern day idolatry is anything that takes the #1 spot of God in our lives. It’s anything that stands in the way of living a life that is holy before Him.

And if Paul were to give a 10-step road to recovery from temptation, step number one would be to run! Flee! Don’t stick around thinking you are going to be strong “this time,” knowing full well that you aren’t. It’s not putting yourself in compromising situations. It’s getting out of compromising relationships. If they are meant to be and if they are God-ordained, He will bring you back together. Heart Check.

Paul is not saying that he lives to please man, but he is sensitive to others so that he does not misuse his Christian freedom in a way that could make a weaker believer stumble. Nothing we do should ever make someone stumble, so we do need to be aware as to what our actions might display or portray to someone else. Heart Check.

Is there anything in your life that may potentially make another person stumble?

The new covenant that Jesus spoke of has three main components: by the power of His blood, every sin is covered when we repent; by the power of His Word, we are transformed from the inside out; and by the indwelling of His Spirit, we now have a close relationship with Him.

These three things are evidence of the new covenant and should be evident in our lives. Heart Check.

Do you truly believe every sin of yours is forgiven? Do you recognize the transformation taking place for the better? Do you have a close relationship with Jesus?

How can we better run our race with purpose and focus? How can we encourage others to do the same?

How do we determine when to exercise our freedom and when to refrain for the sake of others?

How can we discern between cultural commands and universal commands in the Bible?

How might selfish practices still occur in fellowship, worship, or communion today?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for allowing us to run freely in this race of life.

But we also thank you for showing us what it takes to do it well. This is our desire—to run our race well so that we can win the imperishable crown of victory. Please strengthen our self-discipline so we can run with purpose and focus. I pray that we will live with an eternal perspective and with heavenly priorities . Keep us steadfast in our faith and help us to train our hearts, minds, and bodies to align with your will. May we lay down our liberty and desires for the sake of the call, just as Paul did. Sure, we can do whatever we want, but we want to do what YOU want. We are so grateful that we even have the chance to share in the privilege of sharing in the work of the gospel. I pray that we will be faithful stewards of that calling, always remembering that everything we do is for your glory and to move the needle in the advancement of the kingdom.

I pray that nothing we do will ever hinder the gospel. May we keep our heads down and plow in hope. Please give us the wisdom and grace to meet people where they are, and to do so with humility, so that they don’t feel threatened in any way. We want to see people and to make them know they are loved and accepted just as they are. But we also want to lovingly show them the truth of your Word so that they don’t stay where they are.

Please help us to see every opportunity as one to share your love and truth. Help us to live in such a way that our actions preach louder than our words.

Thank you for showing us the connection between what was done centuries ago in the Old Testament and how it still serves as a warning and encouragement to us today. We know that just as Israel fell weak after receiving so many blessings, so can we if we are not vigilant. So please increase our discernment so that we can be aware of any modern day idols in our lives. Let us fiee from anything that tries to take your place in our lives or anything that stands between us. You don’t want to compete for our devotion, so I pray that we will freely come to you with abandon each day, forsaking the things of this world, and devoting our lives to the Kingdom.

Thank you for protecting us, especially in times of temptation. We know that we are all vulnerable and will all be tempted, but we also know that there is always a way out. So I pray that you will make those exit signs extra bright so we can fiee.

As we seek to do everything for your glory, I pray that you will increase our sensitivity to others. Give us the foresight to see how the freedom to do what we want can potentially be a stumbling block to someone who is new to the faith or still navigating how to resist certain things in their lives. I pray that we will have a heart for the greater good of others just as you do.

Thank you for the beautiful gift of worship. I pray that we always approach you with humility, respect, and honor. Help us to see and clearly understand headship and authority and the way you intended it to be so that it does not continue to be a point of contention in our homes, churches, and communities today. Teach us how to better honor and live out the roles you have uniquely given to us. They are a gift, and I pray that we never disregard them by trying to make them fit into our mold.

Forgive us if we have ever brought selfishness, division, or dishonor into our worship. Help us to recognize how sacred the coming together in fellowship and communion is so that we can foster unity in the church as a whole. May we never forsake this or take it for granted in any way. Please strengthen our commitment to care for one another and to continue to build up the community of believers. We know that in doing so, we will bless your heart, and that’s all we desire to do.

1 Corinthians 12, Paul continues his letter to the church in Corinth as he writes regarding the gifts that the Holy Spirit provides in their witnesses. He begins with the initial gift to every believer is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit within every believer. He continues to name the abilities that He bestows among each person. Paul compares the body of believers to the human body to illustrate how God uses each of His sons and daughters for His kingdom.

1 Corinthians 13, In what has been referred to as the "love chapter", Paul writes of the love of Christ. This is a love that all believers in Christ should display towards one another and to the world they will bear a witness to of God's love towards His people. He provides a list of attributes that will manifest from someone exhibiting the love of Christ.

1 Corinthians 14, Paul writes of prophesying and speaking in tongues. Conditions are needed to understand if one is truly speaking in a tongue from the Holy Spirit, and not create confusion. Paul provides a detailed explanation to the believers. Paul reminds the Corinth church, all speech, actions, and worship when they gather, should be in all glory to God and to the edification of those in the church.

This is not an exhaustive list of spiritual gifts, as we will see a more in depth discussion in Romans 12. But for now, it’s important to know that every single believer is given at least one spiritual gift. They are not limited to “special” believers, nor are they evidence of spiritual maturity. The word gift in Greek is charisma, and note the root of that word: charis. Charis is translated to “grace” in English, which is undeserved, unearned, and unmerited favor. This means we don’t deserve the gifts that He gives to us. But we should receive them with all humility and grace. Heart Check.

Secondly, spiritual gifts are for the purpose of building up and unifying the church. Therefore, they unlock the door to ministry. For instance, if you have the gift of knowledge and/or wisdom, you may also have a supernatural ability to teach. Or if you have the gift of mercy, that translates well into shepherding or pastoral care. These things aren’t exclusive and they may overlap, but your spiritual gifts are the key to unlock the door that opens to your unique and God-ordained role in the body of Christ. Heart Check.

Paul is emphasizing the importance of agape love—a love that is unchanging, unconditional, selfiess, sacrificial, and not based on emotion. This is the kind of love that God loves us with and the kind of love that He calls us to have for one another.

He says that no matter how gifted, talented, extraordinary, and no matter if you serve to the bone or even die a martyr, if any of it is done without love, it’s worth nothing. All of those things are good, but they are deemed useless if they are not motivated by love. Heart Check.

Does love rule what you do? Are you serving others out of love? Are you speaking words of love? Are you sacrifcing for the sake of love?

GROWING IN LOVE | 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

*LOVE IS/DOES*	*MEANING*
PATIENT	It endures in times of difficulty, hurt, irritation, or annoyance. It is willing to wait without anger or frustration.
KIND	It demonstrates goodness through actions and words. It seeks to bless and not curse.
DOES NOT ENVY	It is not jealous or resentful when others are successful or blessed.
DOES NOT BOASt	It does not brag about successes or seek to elevate oneself above others. It doesn’t need to prove itself.
NOT ARROGANT	It is not boastful and does not seek position or status but rather displays humility
NOT RUDE	It honors and values rather than dishonor or disrespect.
DOES NOT INSIST ON ITS OWN WAY	It is not selfish or focused on selfish gain. It puts others’ needs above their own.
NOT IRRITABLE	It is not easily offended and does not impulsively react in anger. It remains calm.
NOT RESENTFUL	It does not continue to bring up wrongdoing or offenses but rather forgives and lets go.
DOES NOT REJOICE AT WRONGDOING BUT REJOICES WITH TRUTH	It does not enjoy injustice or wrongdoing but rather seeks honesty, integrity, and truth in every situation.

In fact, it so beautifully describes the heart and character of Jesus because He is love. You can replace each love statement with the name of Jesus and each one would remain true.

What areas of love do you find easiest or more challenging? What can you do to grow in this kind of love?

How does remembering their former pagan practices relate to the context of spiritual gifts?

What does chapter 11 reveal about the role of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life?

How does the world view love and what are some common misconceptions about love that this passage corrects?

In looking at the spiritual gifts, how might they be abused to edify self over church? How can we guard against it?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for every good gift that comes from above.

We are especially grateful for the gift of your Holy Spirit, who empowers us, comforts us, and equips us to serve. Thank you for the undeserved spiritual gifts that you bestow upon us for the purpose of building your church.

I pray that as we continue to seek you, that they will be made known to us so that we can deploy them into service. Help us to continue to develop them so that we can help others to grow in unity, strength, and love. Please teach us how to honor one another as brothers and sisters who live under the same banner of Christ. We are diverse but we are also the same when it comes to the way you see and value us.

Please guard our hearts against any kind of envy, pride, feelings of dissatisfaction or inferiority, and if they ever begin to creep in, I pray that you will remind us that you have uniquely gifted each one of us to play a very specific and essential role in the body. I pray that we will rejoice with others and celebrate them when they are recognized or lifted up, and I pray that we will also be sensitive to the needs that surround us.

Thank you for loving us and showing us what true agape love looks like today. It’s difficult for us to fully embrace this love because it is perfect and we are not. Your love is expressed so fully and in ways that we can’t even comprehend. Please help us to continue to grow in each aspect of it so that we can refiect your heart. Increase our patience and kindness, and remove any pride, envy, rudeness, irritation, or resentment that may be hanging around.

I pray that we will seek to protect, defend, honor, and respect others. Increase our faith and confidence in your promises, fully trusting that what you say is true and that you will complete what you started. When we face times of difficulty, I pray that you will help us to persevere. May we not hold things over people’s heads but instead forgive. I pray that we prioritize love in everything we do, knowing that it is the foundation of our faith.

Renew our hearts so that from the overfiow of our hearts, our mouths pour out words of kindness and grace, and let that kindness fiow into every relationship and interaction.

Thank you for continuing to guide us by your Spirit. Please give us the wisdom that we need to earnestly seek and pursue love and spiritual gifts with all humility and love. I pray that our motives will be pure, always seeking to glorify you. We want to be a people who refiect your grace, especially in the way that we faithfully serve you and others. I pray that we will effectively communicate your truth clearly and wrapped in love so that it builds up and edifies others.

I pray that when we gather together and worship, we will be mindful but also surrendered so that we can have heartfelt worship. Let there be peace and order in everything we do, and may unity abound within the church. Above all, I pray that our personal worship and devotion honors you and lifts up your holy name.

1 Corinthians 15, Paul continues to write of the Gospel of Christ's resurrection as a reminder of the promise of their resurrection one day. He desires them to understand the faith they preach about. Paul expands upon understanding what God desires to be known from the example of Jesus' resurrection. He writes how all will be changed in the twinkling of an eye at the last trumpet.

1 Corinthians 16, A collection of the saints' and Paul's travel plans is discussed. Paul summarizes the letter he has written to the church in Corinth and updates them on Apollos. Paul is grateful for brothers in Christ who have come to visit him and share with the church the greetings others wish to extend to them.

When Paul said that he died every day, he was not speaking about a spiritual death and taking up his cross. He was talking about his physical life, which was constantly hanging by a thread. Everywhere he went, danger was imminent, and his survival was on the line. He knew he could die any day, and yet he did not fear it. He was ready.

If we had the kind of faith that Paul did, we, too, would not fear death and would be ready for it. Because, at the end of the day, death is inevitable. We are all going to die, but if we genuinely believe that our life is in His hands, then we will let go of the need to grasp it so tightly. Heart Check.

Are you ready to die? Do you trust that your life is in His hands? Are you willing to surrender it to Him?

Many of us probably thought this was a proverb in the Bible, but this saying actually came from a Greek comedy play by Menander called Thais. Nevertheless, there’s truth to these words, and Solomon had the same sentiment in Proverbs 18:24 when he said, “A man of many companions may come to ruin…”

Paul is basically reiterating that if they continued to hang around people who were falsely teaching them, eventually they would believe the lie. This wasn’t a universal call not to hang out with sinners, because that would go against the way Jesus lived His life.

But it serves as a warning that it’s a lot easier to pollute a clean pond with a handful of dirt than it is to make a dirty pond pure with a handful of clean water. Heart Check.

What are the core elements of the gospel and how are they displayed in chapter 15?

How does understanding and acceptance of the resurrection help believers to live differently?

What insights can we learn about leadership from Paul’s relationships with Timothy and Apollos?

What does Paul’s final exhortation to be watchful, stand firm, act like men, and be strong imply about the possible challenges the Corinthians were facing? How might this be the same in today’s church?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for this beautiful explanation of the gospel, especially in the way that Paul brought the resurrection to light and showed us the importance of it.

Jesus, thank you for taking our place and paying the penalty for our sin. You died so that we could have eternal life. You remained sinless, as the perfect spotless lamb and were accepted as that perfect sacrifice, redeeming our sin by your blood. We fully believe that you were buried and rose again on the third day, proving your divinity, assuring our justification, giving us hope for our own resurrection, and empowering us to live as a new creation. We are not worthy to receive this much grace, yet I am what I am, and your grace toward me was not in vain. It was worth it to you because you love us that much. Thank you for loving us. I pray that in response to that love and grace, we will work all the more, not because we are striving to gain anything, but because we simply can’t help ourselves. The more we begin to understand what that grace truly is, the more we will naturally desire to honor you through service.

If there is any misunderstanding of your teaching, I pray that you will help us understand. Holy Spirit, give us wisdom and help us to see your truth for what it is. I pray that we don’t overcomplicate it. Silence the lies of anyone who may be falsely whispering lies into our ears. We cancel the assignment of the enemy to try to lead us astray.

If there is any bad company corrupting our thoughts or character, please reveal to us how to deal with it. Jesus, we know that you are the friend of sinners, so we don’t ever want to work against that, but we also want to be wise in the way that we guard our hearts. Please give us wisdom in this matter and help us to keep our hearts and minds from corruption.

Thank you in advance for the perfected bodies that await us. What a glorious day that will be as we will be fully transformed and incorruptible, and your mysteries will be unlocked for us to fully understand. But one thing we do know, you are our all in all, everything that we need, so I pray that we will let go of our desire to control everything. Loosen our grip as we relinquish that control to you. We look forward to the day when every rule, every authority, and every power, and every enemy is under your feet. Until then, help us to remain steadfast and immoveable in our faith, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that none of it is ever done in vain. Give us the courage and strength that we need to uphold our truth and to act with integrity in all circumstances. But more importantly, may everything we do be done in love so that we can refiect the character of Christ.

2 Corinthians 1, Paul writes his second letter to the church in Corinth, beginning with a declaration of comfort amid suffering and affliction. He explains the reasons for his changed travel plans.

2 Corinthians 2, Paul expresses his abundant love for the church in Corinth, acknowledging that all he and others have accomplished is for the glory of Christ.

2 Corinthians 3, Paul confidently states that all believers in Christ serve as living testimonies of the new covenant God has established with humanity through Jesus Christ. He proclaims that this new covenant eliminates spiritual separation, allowing all believers to boldly approach God.

2 Corinthians 4, Paul explains how believers in Christ act as lights in a blinded world. He compares their faith to jars of clay, emphasizing that they are being spiritually renewed each day.

Satan’s goal is always to steal, kill, and destroy, and Paul is telling the Corinthians that by withholding forgiveness from this man who has repented, they were playing right into Satan’s slimy little hands, because unforgiveness will destroy.

It destroys our witness, it destroys our refiection of the character of Christ, it destroys unity in fellowship, and it destroys our own joy and peace. So Paul is saying, “Don’t let him win!” Heart Check.

Paul is saying that if the proof is in the pudding, then the Corinthians are the pudding.Their transformed lives are the fruit of his ministry, and therefore he needs nothing else to prove what God is doing through him. If we are letters of Christ to be read by everyone… Heart Check.

What kind of message is your life sending to those around you? Does it align with Christ?

The veil that Moses put over his face was one to cover the diminishing glory. He was not only protecting others from the brightness of the radiance but also from their ability to see that glory fade away. This represents the diminishing glory of the old system, and because the people can’t stand the thought if it being overshadowed, they have hardened their hearts, which has now become a veil that keeps them from seeing the truth for what it is and therefore repenting. Heart Check.

Are there any veils in your life that are keeping you from fully seeing or reﬂecting God’s glory? How can you remove them?

How does chapter 1 better help you understand the role of suffering in the life of a believer?

How does the contrast between the old covenant and the new covenant impact our relationship with God?

How can we pray for and minister to those who struggle to see the truth of the gospel?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for the reassurance of your Presence with us to comfort us, strengthen us, guide us, and encourage us.

I pray that we will have a greater awareness so that we do not become discouraged in times of trouble, but rather turn to you in every season of life. Let it be a time to draw us closer and not push us further from you. Help us to trust you more deeply so that we can turn around and help others in their time of need. Open our eyes to the needs of those around us and increase our love, compassion, willingness to help.

There will be many times where our strength will run out, and we will have to rely fully on you to give us the strength that we need. I pray that we will not pridefully resist your help but instead cling even tighter to you and your promises. Every promise of yours is a resounding “yes” and affirmed by the work of the Cross.

Thank you for your Holy Spirit, who anoints us, authenticates us, puts a mark of ownership and authority on us, affirms our identity in Christ, and gives us a small taste of the goodness that is still to come. Remind us of this daily so that we can stand firm in times of testing.

Help us to show abundant love and joy to others so that our fragrance will be one that attracts others to come in and not be repulsed. I pray that we will be quick to forgive, just as you have forgiven us. Show us how to better extend grace and reaffirm love to those who have genuinely repented. Let us never think that we are above ever hurting others. We could so easily fall, so I pray that we never allow our pride to give the enemy a foothold. I pray that we, instead, leave a sweet aroma everywhere we go, so that we will be life-givers instead of life-suckers.

Thank you for the opportunity to share your word with others. I pray that we never distort or misuse it in any way but always present it with all humility and authenticity. Increase our discernment and give us the courage to address and correct issues where necessary. When we do, may it be done with sincerity and love, so that there will be an open door for them to return following their restoration.

May we always seek to restore others so that we can partner with them in witnessing your transformative power.

Thank you for the gift of the new covenant that is written on our hearts by your Spirit. We are so grateful for the way that is has liberated us from death, condemnation, and the grip of sin. Thank you for the grace that covers us and gives us everything we need to be sufficient ministers of that same grace.

I pray that our lives will carry a message of hope and deliverance to those around us. May we be those mirrors that refiect your glory and shine your truth and love so that others will be drawn closer to you. Continue to transform us into the likeness of you. If there are any veils in our lives that are keeping us from seeing you, please remove them.

We want to be able to live with boldness and confidence, so I pray that you will fill us afresh today. Empower us by your spirit to live and speak with courage. Fill us with joy, peace, and purpose, as we embrace the freedom that your Spirit gives. Make us vessels of righteousness, doing works of good, so that we bring glory to your name.

If there is any blindness lurking in anyone’s eyes, we pray that you will shine your light so brightly in their lives, the same way you did with Paul on the road to Damascus, so that they will have no choice but to see. Bind the blinding work of Satan and loose your power to give them faith to overcome their unbelief.

We are so humbled that you would use us, a people who are fragile and weak jars of clay. What a beautiful thing it is to see the way that your all-surpassing power can shine in our weakness. So when we feel as though we are being pressed on every side, remind us that we are not crushed. When we feel like giving up, allow your promise that we are not forsaken to give us the faith we need to endure. May we never lose heart, even if we feel like we can’t go on. Continue to renew us day by day, changing us from glory to glory, as we shift our focus from the seen to the unseen. We behold your glory, knowing that its weight far surpasses anything that we will ever face on this earth.

2 Corinthians 5, Paul encourages the church in Corinth by contrasting their earthly bodies with their future heavenly bodies. He reveals the mystery of becoming a new creation in Christ and emphasizes their reconciliation with God.

2 Corinthians 6, Paul urges the church not to receive God's grace in vain, highlighting the importance of the Holy Spirit in their lives. He also addresses the issue of being unequally yoked.

2 Corinthians 7, Paul reflects on the hardships endured for the Gospel and speaks of a godly grief that leads to repentance. He expresses joy in his own heart and the refreshed spirit of Titus.

2 Corinthians 8, Paul promotes generosity, encouraging members to contribute according to their circumstances so that everyone thrives in the church. He acknowledges Titus as a valuable part of his ministry.

2 Corinthians 9, Paul instructs the church to prepare their promised gifts for the saints. He continues discussing generosity, relating it to the principles of sowing and reaping in God's kingdom.

Paul explains how believers in Christ act as lights in a blinded world. He compares their faith to jars of clay, emphasizing that they are being spiritually renewed each day.

Paul is emphasizing the importance of integrity, sincerity, and authenticity. He is explaining that his motivation comes from the fear of the Lord, or the reverent awe and respect for the Most Holy God. His aim was never to please man but to please God alone.

Yet, he knew that not everyone was on board in the same manner. They cared more about the outward appearance, the perfection of his delivery, and their own power than the substance of the message and their inner transformation.

Sadly, because his sufferings made him appear weak in their eyes, they had a hard time supporting his ministry. Nevertheless, he’s trying to give them a good foundation of defense to those who may criticize them for following his teaching. Heart Check.

What do you glory in? Perfection and outward appearance or sincerity and inner transformation?

We are not born with the innate desire to live for God, because our nature has been corrupt due to the fall. But Paul is saying that once you truly know the love of God, that desire will change. When you truly understand that an innocent man died for you, it will compel you to serve Him by serving others.

If Paul were asked, “Why are you doing this?” His answer would be, “I have to.” He was so overwhelmed with the love of Christ, that he had no other choice but to live for the one who died for him. Heart Check.

What are you living for? Does His love for you and His sacriﬁce compel you to live for more than yourself?

Paul is talking about regeneration here, which is a part of salvation. If change doesn’t take place after salvation, then one might question whether they are truly saved. I know this isn’t pleasant to hear and it may even scare some people, but I would rather scare you into giving this some thought than allow you to continue walking down the road to destruction because it’s never been a consideration.

When we say regeneration or change, we aren’t talking about an overnight transition to perfection. We’re just saying there’s got to be a shift in direction in some area of your life, because that’s what repentance is.

This could be in the way you think, your attitude, your speech, or your actions. The main thing is that there is a realization that God is doing a new thing in you! He wants the best for you! So it’s a submission to His will and putting on that brand new wardrobe, while leaving the stinky clothes in the hamper. Heart Check.

What’s changed in you? Have you put on a new wardrobe? Or are you living in the same ol’ stinky clothes?

Titus is Paul’s student, and it amazes me that this is the one person who brings Paul comfort! So many times, we will miss our Titus because we think that surely someone who is weaker, younger, or less mature than us can’t minister to our hearts. But we know that is false, because God loves to use the weak or foolish things of the world to confound the wise.

I don’t know how many times I’ve been schooled even by the innocence of my own children’s words. But if I wasn’t open to hearing it, I would’ve completely missed a Titus moment. Heart Check.

Who’s your Titus? Are you open to listening to those who you may feel are beneath you?

Titus started a collection in Corinth, and while the Corinthians may have had every intention to give, Paul is saying that they needed to complete the mission, because intentions are useless without follow through. And this will apply to every area of our lives. Heart Check.

Is there something you’ve started that you need to complete? What can you do today to fulﬁll the intention?

Paul is saying that God has the ability to abundantly bless us and give us everything we need. This doesn’t necessarily mean that if we give to the church offering, we will suddenly win the lottery or get a raise at work (although we should never put it past Him—He can do anything!), but it does mean that He will supply our every need and give us a deep-rooted contentment when we give from a sincere heart. One of the best ways for us to know whether we are content is to judge our shopping habits. Heart Check.

Do you constantly need more things to satisfy your soul? How does material loss or gain aﬀect your happiness?

Secondly, He provides for us so that we can abound in every good work, meaning He blesses us so we can be a blessing. This is a call for us to be channels or springs of blessing and not reservoirs that are hoarding it all for ourselves. Heart Check.

Are you a channel or a a reservoir? Are you taking your blessings and turning to bless others?

Paul has shown us the purpose and the how to in giving and generosity. In the end, our generosity will prove the sincerity of our faith in the way that it will show that our hearts are cleansed of selfishness and worry and replaced with selfiessness, servanthood, and trust that God will meet our every need and bless us abundantly. Heart Check.

Do you live a generous life? What does your generosity say about your faith? Are you investing into the Kingdom of Heaven?

What is the difference between the bema seat of judgment and the Great White Throne of judgment? How does this inspire the way we live?

How does “Paul’s resume” challenge your perspective on being a co-worker with Christ?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for the comforting reminder that everything in this life is temporary and that we live for an eternal hope.

Thank you for the home that you have prepared for us. I pray that we will set our hope on that which we cannot yet see, for we do indeed walk by faith and not by sight. And that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. So keep us close to your Word. I pray that we never stray from it.

Lord, we long to please you in everything we do. Remind us daily what that looks like and give us specific instructions on how to carry out our daily tasks. Let everything that we do, even in our eating in drinking, bring you glory. Every minute counts, and every single one will be held in account one day. I pray that this will help us to keep even our thoughts and attitudes in check, knowing that it will all be laid out before you one day. This isn’t meant to condemn us but to correct us for the better.

Thank you for the new thing you are doing. We are new creations in Christ, so I pray that we will refiect that. Let us leave the old stinky clothes in the hamper and put on the new wardrobe of righteousness. May our transformation be seen by the world so that they too will desire to be reconciled to you.

Thank you, Jesus, for restoring our relationship with the Father. We are so grateful to you for the way that you literally became sin and satisfied our judgment so that we could become the righteousness of God. So while we await your glorious return, I pray that we will live as citizens of heaven, bringing the message of good news to others as ambassadors of Christ. May we represent you well.

Thank you for the privilege of being able to work alongside you in this life. I pray that we never waste your grace that you have given to us, but instead, may it motivate the work we do. Help us to live with an urgency and purpose, for this is the day of salvation, and we don’t know when that will come to an end. For now, we are so grateful for your patience.

We know that in this life, there will be many hardships, trials, and moments of weakness. I pray that we will remain pure, patient, and kind, as we rely on your Holy Spirit to guide and sustain us. May we live our lives, set apart for you, living lives of holy conduct. If there are any yokes that need to be broken, I pray that you will give us the discernment to see it and the courage to break free from it. Produce in us Godly sorrow that leads to repentance. Help us to turn from anything that hinders our relationship with you or taints our witness or ministry in any way.

Thank you, Jesus, for leaving heaven and becoming poor so that we could become rich. I pray that this will continually stir in our hearts so that we will live generously. Teach us to excel in the grace of giving, giving out of joyful hearts, not out of obligation, but as a response to the grace and love that you have poured out into our lives. Open our eyes to the needs around us and give us the compassion to respond. I pray that we will live with financial integrity, stewarding well every gift that you give to us.

2 Corinthians 10, Paul defends his ministry, affirming that it is guided by the Spirit and not driven by worldly motives. He urges the church to use discernment and avoid misinterpreting his intentions or tone as boasting. Instead, his focus is on glorifying God and leading them in obedience to Christ. Paul emphasizes that spiritual battles are fought with divine weapons, not human strength, calling believers to destroy false arguments and take every thought captive to Christ.

2 Corinthians 11, Paul warns the church to be vigilant against false prophets and those who distort the gospel of Christ. He contrasts their deceit with his own authenticity, recounting his sufferings and sacrifices for the sake of the faith. Rather than boasting in achievements, Paul highlights his weaknesses, showing that his dependence on Christ is his true strength. This heartfelt warning calls the Corinthians to remain steadfast and discerning in their faith.

2 Corinthians 12, Paul shares the transformative vision of the Lord Jesus Christ that shaped his ministry. He describes the thorn in his fiesh, a persistent struggle that kept him humble despite his spiritual experiences. Though he pleaded for its removal, he came to embrace God’s grace as sufficient and His power perfected in weakness. Paul’s deep love for the Corinthian believers shines as he expresses his desire to nurture their spiritual growth, even at personal cost.

2 Corinthians 13, As Paul closes his second letter, he issues a final warning to the Corinthian church before his visit. He calls them to discernment in addressing unrepentant members and to regularly examine their own hearts to ensure they are walking faithfully with Christ.

Paul’s love and pastoral care are evident as he encourages them toward unity and maturity. He ends with a blessing of grace, love, and fellowship, extending greetings from the saints.

Strongholds, in the physical sense, are places of defense, such as fortresses or castles. It was a place of refuge built up in a difficult way to penetrate or take down. Strongholds in the spiritual are deeply entrenched patterns of thought that oppose the knowledge of God, meaning they pull you away from righteousness and holiness.

If we don’t immediately shut the door to that thought, we have now given the devil a foothold to keep it open just enough for that thought to now put roots down into your spirit. The thought then changes your attitude that what you are doing is wrong, and then that attitude changes your behavior. When there are no consequences for that behavior, it then becomes a habit, which then turns into a cycle, and eventually you are chained up into a stronghold. Heart Check.

Does the devil have his foot in the door? Are there any thought patterns, habits, or actions that have become a stronghold in your life?

If we know that every sin and every foothold begins with a thought… Heart Check.

Do your thoughts obey Christ? What is keeping you from shutting the door on them?

Paul’s critics thought they were so high and mighty because the only people they had to measure themselves against were themselves, which wasn’t a very high standard in the first place. Secondly, they were only focused on outward appearance, rather than measuring by God’s standard of looking at the heart. Paul says that this comparison game isn’t wise. We shouldn’t do it, because we all have our own God-given callings and gifts, which changes the standards across the board.

When you start comparing yourself with someone else who may appear to be “better” or “more gifted” than you, you will get stuck in this trap of feeling less than or even defeated. Whereas if you compare yourself with someone who seems to be less talented, you may infiate your ego a bit and pride may begin to take root. Heart Check.

Are you in stuck in the comparison trap? Whose standards are you measuring yourself by? God’s or man’s?

Paul knows what his sphere or area of infiuence and authority is. In other words, he knows which lane he’s supposed to be in, and he doesn’t try to deviate from it. He’s probably addressing this because his critics were likely taking authority over or credit for the work that he did.

If anyone runs a race and hops over to run in someone else’s lane, they waste valuable time and will likely end up falling behind. We all have spheres assigned to us by God, and as I always say, “Stay in your own spotlight or you will end up having to climb out of someone else’s shadow.” Heart Check.

Do you know what your sphere is? Are you staying in your lane? Or are you trying to take credit or run in someone else’s sphere?

Paul recognized his ability to become prideful—we’re all prone to that in one way or another. Because he knew that it was a problem, he could recognize the thorn that God gave to him to keep him humble and reliant upon Him when he couldn’t bear to go on.

And when he uses the word thorn, we’re not talking about a little splinter or sticky that gets under your skin. This is a large thorn that is more like a tent stake that anchors you down. It's the thing that brings you to the end of yourself so that you have no other choice but to depend on Him.

You see, the mark of true spiritual maturity is not when we’ve got it all together and can stand on our own two feet, but rather it’s when we realize we can’t stand on our own strength and so we lean on Him to keep us upright. We don’t know the exact nature of Paul’s thorn-- it could’ve been physical, mental or spiritual.

But what we do know is that it was so bad that Paul pleaded with God to take it away! But the Lord lovingly said, “No,” because the purpose of the thorn was to get Paul to allow the Lord to bear the bigger burden that it brought into his life. If we don’t ever become insufficient, we will never be able to allow his grace to be sufficient. We have to know what our weaknesses are so that we can give the weight of the load to Him. Heart Check.

Do you have a thorn in your flesh? Have you allowed the Lord’s grace to be suﬀicient for you in this area of weakness?

When Paul tells them to examine themselves, he’s basically telling them to give themselves spiritual checkups just as a child would go to the doctor each year to get a physical exam. The purpose is not to find anything bad but to make sure everything is in working order. The purpose is not to condemn but to make sure we are truly living by the power of Christ in us. There are a lot of Christian imposters under the guise of going to church or even calling themselves Christians, yet their lifestyle would say otherwise. So how do we know? Heart Check.

When’s the last time you’ve done a spiritual wellness exam? Is Christ truly in you? Do you truly know Him on a personal level or only know about Him on an intellectual level?

How does Paul’s approach to leadership challenge contemporary views of authority?

What teachings of a “different Jesus” or “different gospel” do we see circulating today?

How does chapter 12 better help you understand the nature of suffering in the life of a believer?

Paul’s goal was always restoration. What processes or attitudes are essential for proper restoration in a faith community?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for teaching us how to ﬁght the battles that we face each day.

We recognize that many of them are fought in the battlefield of our own minds. It begins in our thoughts. We know that the father of lies sits on our shoulders and whispers lies into our ears, just hoping that he can change our thinking so that our behavior will follow suit. He hopes that we will wage war as the world does and fight back in carnal ways. But I pray that we will instead put on the armor of God—let us fasten the belt of truth around our waist, guard our hearts with the breastplate of righteousness, walk in the shoes of the gospel of peace, use our shields of faith and swords of the spirit, and protect our minds by the grace of our salvation. If we operate this way, we will have the power to tear down every stronghold. So if the devil has his grimy little foot in the door, let us kick it out now and slam the door shut on his face.

I pray that you will help us to recognize and dismantle any arguments or pretense that are putting up a barrier against the knowledge of God. Help us to take every thought captive and make them obedient to Christ. And as we confront any challenges, remind us that our confidence comes from you. Let us not compare ourselves to others but only look for your approval. Help us to know what sphere you have assigned us to and don’t allow us to cross over into someone else’s lane or spotlight. Help us to see that our assignment is just as valuable to the kingdom as anyone else’s and may we not be swayed by what the world views as success. When we stand before you at the bema seat, I pray that we will be confident, knowing that we did what you called us to do.

Please increase our discernment to distinguish between the truth and the lie. We know that there is vigilance that is required to maintain our devotion to you, especially against the deceptions of the world. I pray that we will have the courage to reject what is false, especially when it can potentially lead us astray. I pray that we will not be swayed by charisma or eloquence alone, but in being grounded in your Word, I pray that we will be more concerned with the message than the messenger. Protect our minds from the cunning ways of the enemy, who masquerades as an angel of light and help us to stand firm against his schemes as we hold fast to righteousness.

We pray for a special protection over our spiritual leaders and anyone in authority, to lead with compassion, truth, and love. Let our pastors lead their fiocks with a godly jealousy so that we can be presented as a pure bride to Christ. Let us, the sheep, honor our leaders, knowing that you have placed them not in positions of dictatorship but godly authority.

Help us to recognize our weaknesses and challenges that we face in our lives. This doesn’t mean we ignore them and hope they will go away but rather submit them to you so that you can give us the strength we need to endure. Help us to embrace the limitations in our lives, knowing that your grace is sufficient and that your strength is perfected in our weakness. Open the windows of heaven, for us to see enough of a glimpse to sustain us through this life.

I pray that our faith will always be on the examination table before you, not for condemnation, but for spiritual wellness. Show us any areas in our lives that may need some correcting or buffing and please guide us on the road to sincere restoration and perfection.

We seek the fullness of your blessing today, with the grace of our Lord Jesus being poured out, the fellowship of the Holy Spirit growing stronger each day, and your love guiding us through it all.

Romans 1, Paul begins his letter to the Roman church by introducing his credentials as an apostle, emphasizing his authority as one sent by God to proclaim the gospel. He expresses his longing to visit Rome but uses this opportunity to address humanity's universal need for a Savior. Paul vividly describes the futility of human wisdom and the depravity of human nature, showcasing how far humanity has fallen from their Creator. He connects this moral decline to the righteous wrath of God, setting the stage for the gospel’s necessity.

Romans 2, Paul explores God's impartial justice, urging the church to recognize the danger of passing judgment on others while ignoring their own sin. He highlights the universal law written on every heart, showing how conscience testifies to God's standards, even apart from the Mosaic law. Paul also redefines circumcision under the new covenant, emphasizing that true circumcision is of the heart, by the Spirit, not merely an outward ritual.

Romans 3, Paul continues to contrast humanity's unrighteousness with God's perfect righteousness, demonstrating the futility of boasting in one’s own works. He declares boldly that no one is righteous before God, as the human heart is selfish and corrupt by nature.

Justification, he explains, cannot come through the law but only through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul’s argument centers on undeserved grace as the foundation of salvation for all who believe.

Paul says in verses 14 and 15, “I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. So I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome.”

Here, Paul feels a deep sense of debt—not because he owes God anything for his grace (that’s impossible), but because he has been entrusted with the truth and responsibility to share it with the world. His "debt" is fueled by gratitude to God, responsibility for the mission, and love for others.

Paul’s eagerness isn’t a burden but a privilege. It’s not born out of guilt or fear but out of an overflowing cup of gratitude. He feels a holy urgency to share the life-changing truth of salvation with others. Heart Check.

Does your heart break for those who don’t know Jesus? Do you feel a joyful responsibility to share the gospel?

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’”

Paul boldly proclaims the gospel as the power of God to save all who believe, Jew and Gentile alike. The phrase "faith for faith" reminds us that our righteousness comes through faith alone, from start to finish. Paul uses Habakkuk 2:4, “The righteous shall live by faith,” to hammer home the idea that faith has always been God’s plan for humanity. Fill-in-the-Blank:

Paul dives into the brokenness of humanity. He paints a dark and honest picture of what happens when people reject God. They suppress the truth, exchange it for lies, and fall into sinful behaviors—including pride, idolatry, and immorality.

God’s wrath isn’t impulsive anger; it’s His holy response to sin. When people reject His truth, He lets them chase their desires, which leads to deeper destruction. This section reminds us that no one is righteous on their own—whether it’s the openly sinful, the moralists, or even the religious. We are all in need of God’s grace. Heart Check.

Are there areas in your life where you’ve exchanged God’s truth for lies? How does this section challenge your view of God’s holiness?

In this section, Paul focuses on the moralist—the person who prides themselves on being “good” while judging others. Paul reminds us that God’s judgment is righteous and impartial.

Many today live by the “follow your heart” philosophy, thinking they can define good and evil for themselves. But Paul says the law written on our hearts (our conscience) will testify against us. Even our best intentions fall short. The moralist isn’t exempt from judgment—they, too, will be judged by the same standard they use to judge others. Heart Check.

Do you ever judge others while excusing your own sins? Are you relying on your moral standards instead of God’s grace?

Paul continues addressing objections and arguments. Some may ask, “If my unrighteousness shows God’s righteousness, isn’t it unfair for Him to judge me?” Paul shuts that down, affirming that all humanity—Jew and Gentile, religious and irreligious—is under sin.

Quoting Old Testament Scripture, Paul declares that none are righteous, no one seeks God, and everyone has turned away. He leaves no room for pride or self-righteousness. The law isn’t a means of salvation but a mirror that shows us our sin. Heart Check.

Do you see yourself in Paul’s description of humanity? How does it make you feel knowing that we all fall short of God’s glory?

“But now”—these two words mark the turning point. Paul introduces the hope of salvation through Jesus Christ. God’s righteousness is available to all who believe, apart from the law.

● Propitiation: Jesus is the mercy seat where God’s justice and mercy meet. His blood satisfied God’s wrath and made reconciliation possible. Heart Check.

Do you believe that Jesus has justiﬁed and redeemed you? How does it feel to know you are valued and loved by God?

How does the idea of justification by faith challenge our natural tendency to earn God’s favor?

Thank You, Lord, for Your justification and redemption because I could never earn it on my own works. Thank You for loving me enough to make a way through Jesus when I had no way to save myself.

God, I was not worthy, but now I stand redeemed through You. I could never pay the price for my sin, but You did. I couldn’t meet the standard, but Jesus met it for me. I couldn’t bear the weight of my guilt, but You took it all on the cross. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that make me right before You.

Lord, I admit that I am a sinner. My heart has wandered. My thoughts, words, and actions have fallen short of Your glory. I know there’s nothing good in me apart from You. But Jesus, You stepped in. You paid the price I couldn’t pay. Through Your blood, You’ve declared me righteous, set me free, and made me new.

Why would You do this for me? Because You love me. It’s that simple and that overwhelming. Thank You, Lord, that Your love doesn’t depend on my performance. Thank You that my salvation is a gift, not something I have to earn.

Father, I believe, even when I can’t see. Just like Abraham trusted You, I choose to trust in Your promises. When the road gets hard, I will walk by faith because I know You are faithful. Thank You for the Holy Spirit, who makes these truths come alive in my heart, who comforts me when I stumble, and who strengthens me to keep going.

God, I want a heart like Paul’s. Give me that zeal and eagerness to share Your Word. Let me feel the weight of the responsibility to tell others about Your love—not out of guilt, but out of gratitude. Break my heart for those who don’t know You. Let me mourn for their lostness and rejoice at the thought of them finding You.

Lord, help me live in the truth of what You’ve done for me. You’ve justified me, redeemed me, and made me Your own. That means I’m valuable. That means I have purpose. That means I don’t have to strive to be good enough because Jesus already is. Let that truth fill me with joy and gratitude.

Holy Spirit, I ask that You guide me daily. Help me to see people the way You see them. Give me boldness to speak Your truth and compassion to do it with love. Let my life be a testimony to Your grace, a light that points others to You.

God, I didn’t deserve this gift, but You gave it anyway. I couldn’t earn it, but You freely offered it. Thank You for making a way when there was no way. Thank You for declaring me sinless when I could never clean myself up. Thank You for Jesus, who is my righteousness, my redemption, and my meeting place with You.

Romans 4, Paul explains the foundation of justification by faith, using Abraham as a prime example of righteousness credited apart from works. Abraham’s faith was reckoned as righteousness long before the law or circumcision, proving that justification has always been based on faith, not rituals or human effort. Paul ties this example to the promise of grace for all believers, emphasizing how faith secures a right standing before the holiness of God.

Romans 5, Paul illustrates the peace and reconciliation believers now have with God through faith in Christ. He highlights how God’s love transforms suffering into perseverance, character, and hope. Paul explains how sin entered the world through Adam, condemning all humanity, but through Christ’s obedience, salvation is offered to all.

God’s grace is shown to abound far more than sin, bringing eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Romans 6, Paul writes about the believer’s freedom from sin, urging the Roman church to live as those alive in Christ, not enslaved to sinful desires. He declares that believers are now slaves to righteousness, called to obey God rather than the flesh. This chapter encourages believers to fully embrace their new identity, walking in the power of the Spirit to overcome sin’s grip.

Romans 7, Paul compares the believer’s relationship to the law to that of a widow freed from her husband, symbolizing their release from the law through Christ. He explains that the law reveals sin but also provokes humanity’s sinful desires, demonstrating their need for a Savior. Paul vividly describes the internal battle between the fiesh and the Spirit, concluding that only Christ provides deliverance from this struggle.

This chapter calls us to reflect on Abraham’s faith. He trusted God against all odds, believing in God’s promises despite impossible circumstances. His faith reminds us that righteousness is a gift credited to us through trust in God, not through works or rituals. Paul uses Abraham as a prime example to show that salvation has always been by faith. He emphasizes that "faith is credited as righteousness," meaning God treats the believer as righteous because of their trust in Him, not their actions.

Refiecting on my own journey, I think of the song "Father Abraham" we sang as kids. Back then, it was just a fun tune with motions, but now it carries so much more depth. Abraham is the father of faith, a man whose trust in God made him a model for every believer. Those simple lyrics remind us that we are part of a spiritual family, walking in faith as Abraham did. Heart Check.

Are you living with Abraham’s kind of faith—trusting God’s promises even when the odds seem stacked against you?

Paul highlights the results of justification: peace with God, access to grace, and hope in His glory. He shifts the focus to how believers can rejoice even in suffering, knowing trials produce perseverance, character, and hope. This hope is unshakable because it’s rooted in God’s love, poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit.

Paul also introduces the concept of original sin, explaining that Adam’s disobedience brought sin and death to all humanity. Yet through Christ, the second Adam, we receive righteousness and life.

Oddly, Paul uses an unfinished comparison in verse 12—“just as...”—but his point is clear: Adam’s sin brought condemnation, but Christ’s obedience brings justification. Where sin increased, God’s grace overfiowed even more.

● Even when you struggle or fail, God’s grace abounds. This doesn’t mean we abuse grace, but we rest in it, knowing our salvation is secure.

● Example: When guilt tempts you to pull away from God, remember that His grace covers your shortcomings and draws you closer to Him.

● The free gift of Christ is available to all. Our role is to share the good news, knowing grace can reach even the hardest hearts.

● Example: Offering forgiveness to someone who hurt you reflects the grace you've received, showing how God's abounding grace transforms relationships.

Romans 5:18–21 challenges us to live boldly in grace, not as an excuse for sin but as a foundation for a life of righteousness and hope. Heart Check.

How does knowing you’re reconciled to God through Christ bring you peace today?

Paul urges believers not to misuse grace as an excuse to sin. Instead, he explains that we are dead to sin and alive in Christ. I once thought it might be okay to keep sinning because "everyone makes mistakes."

But each time I did, the guilt weighed heavier. That was the Spirit at work, reminding me that grace isn’t a license for sin but the power to live a transformed life. Paul likens this transformation to baptism—dying to our old selves and rising to new life in Christ. This freedom isn’t a free pass to live as we please but a calling to refiect God’s righteousness.Heart Check.

Are you taking grace for granted, or are you letting it shape your choices and transform your life?

Paul’s raw honesty in this chapter resonates deeply with me. I met my husband through MMA, and while I don’t fight in a cage, I’ve fought my own battles. As a strong, independent woman, I wrestled with wanting to be loved and secure while fearing vulnerability. That tension mirrors Paul's spiritual struggle—the fight between fiesh and spirit.

Paul writes, "I do not do what I want, but the very thing I hate." This frustration refiects the ongoing battle within believers. Before Christ, we were enslaved to sin, unaware of the chains holding us. Now, we wrestle because we are free to fight back.

Imagine putting sin in a rear-naked chokehold, refusing to let it dominate your life. With each struggle, we can declare, "By no means will sin have victory over me!" Our fight is hard, but victory is guaranteed through Christ.Heart Check.

How does understanding that you are no longer a slave to sin shape the way you view your daily struggles?

In what ways can you actively live in the peace and freedom that Christ has secured for you?

How does baptism, both physical and spiritual, serve as a reminder of your new life in Christ?

What practical steps can you take to fully embrace your adoption into God’s family and live as an heir of His promises?

How does the righteousness imputed to you through faith impact the way you see yourself and others?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, we come before You, overwhelmed by the truth that we are no longer slaves to sin.

No longer bound. No longer living in the shadows of guilt and shame. In Christ, we are free—free to walk in newness of life, free to rejoice in Your peace, free to live as Your children. You have done what the law could not. You have given us righteousness, not earned by works but imputed through faith. What a gift!

Help us, Lord, to stop fighting the wrong battles. By no means should we strive for righteousness on our own strength. Let us instead surrender to the victory You have already secured. Teach us to live by faith, to trust fully in Your promises, to rest in the freedom You’ve purchased with Christ’s blood. Let us walk boldly, as heirs of Your kingdom, with hearts fixed on the hope of eternal life.

You have done what the law could not. You have given us righteousness, imputed through faith, not earned by works. What a gift! Let us stop striving in our strength. Let us stop trying to fix what only You can heal. Teach us, Lord, to live by faith, to trust in Your promises, to rest in the freedom You’ve purchased for us.

We are free, Father. Free from sin’s chains. Free from condemnation. Free to live in peace with You. We are free, Father. Free to walk in victory. Free to wrestle against sin and declare its defeat. Free to live as children of grace, adopted into the family of Abraham, heirs of Your promises. Let us never forget this adoption. Let us hold fast to the truth that we belong to You.

But even in our freedom, we feel the wrestling—the tension of living between fiesh and Spirit. Help us to wrestle well, not as those enslaved but as those who know the battle has been won. Remind us that we are no longer at war with You; we have peace, reconciliation, and the joy of knowing You as "Abba, Father."

May we understand this freedom not just on the surface but on every level. Teach us what it means to be baptized in both the physical and the spiritual. Let our physical baptism remind us of the outward declaration of our faith, but may we also grasp the depth of spiritual baptism—that we are united with Christ in His death and resurrection. We have died to sin, and we now live to righteousness.

Father, may we never forget our adoption into the family of Abraham. You have made us heirs, sons and daughters, not by our own merit but by Your grace. You have written us into the story of faith, counted us as righteous, and called us Your own. Let us live as children who trust in their Father, fully reliant on Your provision and steadfast love.

By no means will we return to the slavery of sin! By no means will we diminish the grace You have lavished upon us! Let us live in faith, live in victory, live in freedom. Not by our might, but by Your Spirit. Not by our works, but by Your grace. Not by our plans, but by Your perfect will.

Strengthen our hearts to believe what You have declared to be true. Equip us to fight sin with the assurance that we are already more than conquerors through Christ. Fill us with the peace of knowing that nothing—neither life nor death, angels nor rulers, things present nor things to come—can separate us from Your love.

To You, the holy and righteous God, we give all honor, all glory, and all praise. Forever and ever.

Romans 8, Paul joyfully announces that there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. He contrasts life according to the fiesh with life led by the Spirit, encouraging believers to set their minds on eternal things. Paul reminds the church they are now heirs with Christ and that nothing can separate them from His love. These comforting truths inspire believers to remain steadfast, boldly living in the assurance of God’s everlasting love.

Romans 9, Paul expresses his heartfelt sorrow for the Jewish people, longing for their salvation as the first recipients of God’s promises through Abraham. He clarifies that not all physical descendants of Abraham are part of the covenant, emphasizing God’s sovereignty in electing His people. Paul recounts Israel’s history of seeking righteousness through rituals rather than faith, urging them to embrace the grace of God through Jesus Christ.

Romans 10, Paul explains the simplicity of salvation: confessing Jesus as Lord and believing in His resurrection. He emphasizes that salvation is for everyone who believes, regardless of background. Paul also recalls God’s promises to include the Gentiles, which were prophesied as early as Moses’ time, showcasing God’s faithfulness to His redemptive plan for all nations.

Paul gives us a very simple standard to know whether you live according to the fiesh or the Spirit—what you set your mind on. Our mind isn’t just confined to our thinking. From our minds stem our will, our emotions, our values, our desires, and our purpose. These things will either be sinful or righteous, and our mindset will either be positive or negative. Heart Check.

What are you focused on? Are your thoughts, desires, and emotions positive or negative? Do they bring anxiety or peace? Is your will and purpose pleasing to God?

We are coming back to the basics of Christianity here. Every single believer is given the gift of the Holy Spirit who dwells within them, and because so, there is no room for the fiesh to continue living the way it once did. The Spirit transforms us into a new creation. Yet believers doubt all the time whether they have the Spirit of God in them, because that’s what the enemy wants-- he wants you to live in fear and condemnation. We can ask simple questions to evaluate if we have the Spirit of God dwelling in us. Heart Check.

Have you received Jesus as your Savior? Do you have the desire to honor Jesus? Are you becoming more like Jesus?

Paul loved the people so much that he basically said, “If I could take their place, I would.” Moses had this same heart and so did Jesus. They were willing to sacrifice their lives for the sake of others.

And here we are, complaining about not being able to get out of the church parking lot in 2 seconds. Heart Check.

Where is your heart for people? Are you willing to give anything for the sake of their salvation? What have you sacrifced for others?

How does chapter 8 give us a better understanding of the Law and its role in salvation? How necessary is it?

How do we reconcile challenges with “all things work together for good”? How does this encourage your faith in trying times?

How did Israel’s privileges foreshadow God’s plan of salvation through Christ?

How much of a role does personal responsibility play in our salvation? How do we reconcile this with letting go of self-reliance?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for continuing to deepen our understanding of salvation and the work of your Holy Spirit in our lives.

We are so grateful that because we are in you, Jesus, there is nothing that can condemn us. The devil might try, but he will not win. You have set us free from the penalty of death, and you have given us redemption and life through your Spirit, so please help us to walk in this freedom every single day. I pray that we will set our minds on things above, kick out any negative or pessimistic thoughts, and give you full control over our attitudes, motives, and behaviors. We know this requires partnership and cooperation with you, so fill us afresh and soften our hearts so that we will desire to be more like you Jesus. We want to make our dwelling place as comfortable as possible so that you will be at home in us. Lead us in righteousness, reminding us that we are no longer slaves to sin, for we are children of the Most High God.

As your child, I pray that we will live with confidence as we find security in our identity that is in you. Thank you, Holy Spirit, for testifying with our spirit and giving us the strength and power that we need to get through every trying time. Sometimes it’s a struggle to see beyond today, but your Word reminds us that these troubles are tiny compared to the weight of glory that is yet to be seen. I pray that we will fix our eyes on eternity, trusting that every moment we are alive, we are being transformed into your image. As we wait, I pray that we will have an eagerness in our hearts that will motivate us to persevere with praise and gratitude in our hearts.

We hold tightly today to the promise that you are working all things for our good because we love you and know that we are called according to your purpose. Thank you for choosing us. I pray that we will align our hearts with your purpose, walking it out in full surrender. As we do, may we never forget that there is nothing that can separate us from your love. No sin, doubt, failure, or insecurity can stand between us. With you, we are more than conquerors and therefore we fight from the victory that has already played out. I pray that we will live with boldness of faith, trusting in your power. If we ever begin to lose sight of these promises, remind us of your empowering Spirit, the hope of glory, and that we are held by your unshakeable love.

We acknowledge your sovereignty today over all things. You are the Creator and the Sustainer of the universe. Your ways are higher than my ways and your thoughts higher than my thoughts. We may struggle with understanding the depths of your plans, but I pray that we don’t get caught in the weeds. Help us to come to that humble place of simply knowing and trusting that you are God and we are not.

None of us deserved your acceptance and love, yet you chose to give it to us anyway, and for that, we are grateful. Continue to mold us into the vessel you desire us to be and may we allow ourselves to meld into the hands of the Potter. Help us to fully surrender, even when we can’t seem to understand.

Please give us a heart like Paul’s, that grieves for those who do not know you or who choose to reject you. Let our hearts be burdened to pray for the lost and to share the truth to those who are misled or unaware. Open our eyes to the opportunities that you place before us and give us the courage to reach out and boldly proclaim your name.

Thank you for finding us, who were once lost. It wasn’t because of anything we did, but simply because of your mercy. May we always live in gratitude and awe of this sovereign choice. I pray that it will drive us to our knees in worship and humility.

Show us who we can share your love and grace with. I pray that you will remove any prejudices or assumptions that might hinder us from spreading the gospel. Send us where you need us, and give us the beautiful happy feet that carry the good news to others. Let us not fear rejection in any way, because at the end of the day, it isn’t about us. It’s about their eternal destination and your desire to be with them forever just as much as you desire to be with us.

Thank you, Jesus, for making salvation so simple. We realize that we can sometimes overcomplicate it, but you simply tell us to come to you with childlike faith and to confess that you are Lord and Savior. The way we live our lives thereafter will prove the sincerity of that faith statement and proclamation. Help us not rely on our own efforts but rather fully submit to your righteousness. Forgive us if we have ever tried to establish our worth through works rather than the finished work of the cross.

Romans 11, Paul expounds on the grace and mercy God has extended to Israel, despite their current spiritual hardening. He presents himself as proof that God continues to preserve a faithful remnant among His people. Paul also explains how Israel’s rejection of the Messiah opened the door for Gentiles to be grafted into God’s family, illustrating God’s inclusive plan of salvation. The chapter emphasizes the depth of God’s mercy for both Jew and Gentile, showcasing His sovereign wisdom and faithfulness.

Romans 12, Paul calls the church to live as a unified body, renewing their minds by the Spirit and rejecting the patterns of the world. He emphasizes the importance of using diverse spiritual gifts to serve one another and grow the kingdom of God. Themes of love, humility, and harmony are central, as Paul provides practical examples of how a life devoted to the Lord should look. The chapter is a blueprint for living as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.

Romans 13, Paul continues with instructions on living a life that refiects God’s love and holiness. He discusses God’s sovereignty over governing authorities, urging believers to submit as an act of obedience to God. Paul reminds the church that living in love fulfills the entire law of God. The chapter concludes with a call to wake from spiritual complacency, live honorably, and clothe oneself with Christ to stand apart from the ways of the world.

Paul is answering the question about the permanence of Israel’s fate and whether they have dug their own grave by rejecting Jesus. But he explains that God has chosen some Jews as a remnant, and he is the living proof of that. If anyone ever wants evidence of God’s work, we should be able to say, “Look at me!” as proof to them that He is real. Heart Check.

While the sacrificial system is done away with (for now), we are still called to sacrifice our bodies as a living sacrifice, meaning we surrender our entire being to God. Unlike animal sacrifices, we are brought to the altar alive, and we continue to live thereafter, for the purpose of living in obedience to Christ.

It isn’t just a one-time act-- our entire life becomes an act of worship as we glorify Him through the way we live on a daily basis. Heart Check.

Are you honoring God as a living sacrifce? Are you consistently dedicating yourself to serve and glorify Him?

Paul is contrasting two different types of people here—conformers and transformers. Either we will conform to the world’s system and what popular culture dictates, or we will be transformers, meaning we will impact the world for good.

If we’re being honest with ourselves, we know that transforming the world is a lot harder than conforming to it. It’s kind of like opening the door of your warm house in the winter and that burst of cold air can immediately drop the temperature in your home by a few degrees. Whereas you can leave your door wide open all day, and the outdoor temperature won’t be moved a single bit.

Transformation takes work because it goes against the grain. It isn’t the easy street. It takes devotion to His Word so that our minds can be renewed and then our behavior and lifestyle will follow suit. Heart Check.

Are you a conformer or transformer? Are you changing the temperature of the atmosphere around you? What areas of your life are most resistant to change?

Paul sets the alarm here for us to wake up. He doesn’t want us to be woke or to be politically mobilized. He is awakening us to the completion of our salvation, which is drawing nearer every single day. I believe this is why there is so much emphasis on politics and divisive rhetoric, because it’s the devil’s tool to distract us from the glory the horizon. He wants to keep us in the dark for as long as possible, in hopes that we will not glorify the Son. And Paul doesn’t just tell us to wake up, he says to get dressed and take a shower.

Just as we would clean our houses when we know guests are coming over, or the way we dress up for certain events, we should be cleaning up our act and putting on those robes of righteousness and holiness in anticipation of Jesus’ return. Don’t allow the fiesh any opportunity to wreak havoc on our spirit. Heart Check.

Are you awake? Are you dressed and ready for Jesus’ return? Or are you still running around in darkness and living as you please?

How does chapter 11 balance God’s sovereignty and man’s responsibility? How do these two things impact your understanding of God’s heart?

What is Israel’s role in God’s redemptive plan? How does it change or affirm your view of the Jewish people?

What is genuine love and how does it compare with the more common perception of love?

How can we honor those in authority while disagreeing with their policies, lifestyle, or decisions? Is there ever an allowance for disobedience? When?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for this beautiful reminder of the depth of your redemptive plan.

Sometimes we get so focused on just ourselves, that we forget or perhaps cannot even fathom the idea that your plan includes anyone outside our Christian circle. But your heart is for all people, and you still have a special affinity for the nation of Israel. Thank you for helping us see that. You’re not done with them, because you are unchanging.

Thank you for grafting us into the olive tree. I pray that we never lose sight of this image and understanding that it was because of Israel that the gospel came to us in the first place. It was all by your grace, so may we always hold that dear to our hearts. We did nothing to deserve it. I pray that we have a better understanding of our place in your plan, and we ask that you will continue to cultivate holiness and righteousness in us so that our roots can continue to grow down deep. Guard our hearts against any pride or complacency, and please continue to remind us that we are fully dependent on you, for you are the source of all things.

We lift up all who have not yet chosen to believe in you, Jesus, and all that you have done to save us. We pray especially for the nation of Israel to turn their hearts toward you.

Open their eyes to see your truth and that you are the Messiah they’ve been waiting and longing for. And for those unbelievers around us, may we be a beacon of light and hope in their lives. Help us to live in a way that makes them desire the same grace that you have given to us. We know that your plan is in motion, and it the timing of it is perfect, so until you return, may we always point people to you so they will be ready when you do.

We acknowledge today that all things are from you, through you, and to you. What a beautiful mystery are your ways. Teach us to trust you, even when we don’t fully understand. You are the source of life and the sustainer of all things, and we owe all honor and glory and praise to you. Show us how we can be a living sacrifice in light of this. Help us to live a life that is holy and pleasing to you. Transform us by the renewing of our minds so that we can discern your good, acceptable, and perfect will.

Continue to teach us what humility looks like and help us to examine ourselves in an honest way, never thinking too highly of ourselves or even too lowly. I pray that we will understand that every good gift comes from you, and if we truly know and understand that, there will be no room for pride or self-righteousness.

But as we recognize the gifts, instead of using them for our own advancement, may we steward and cultivate them to faithfully serve others and to build your church. I pray that these things are never fueled by obligation or pride but by love and joy of honoring you.

Let our love for others be genuine, just as your love is for us. Help us to love like you, Jesus. Let us run after peace and honor others above ourselves. I pray that we will rejoice in hope, persevere in trials, and be fervent in prayer, knowing that you are with us and that you are faithful in every season. And if anyone comes against us or hurts us, help us to love them and bless them in return, rather than seeking retaliation. Help us to overcome evil with good, even in the smallest things.

We lift up our leaders and those you have placed in positions of authority. We know that they have been called to responsibly lead, but we also recognize that that doesn’t always happen. But we are still called to honor them regardless of any disagreements we may have with their lifestyle, choices, or policies. So we ask that you will give them hearts that desire to live by godly standards and by your truth. I pray they will lead with integrity, humility, and a deep sense of accountability to you.

Give them hearts that desire to serve and put others before themselves. Give them the wisdom they need to make decisions that will bring peace and justice to whatever their jurisdiction is. Surround them with wise and godly counsel, and protect them from pride, greed, and corruption. And for our spiritual leaders, empower them with your Spirit to boldly lead with courage and by your truth. Protect the hearts, minds, and families, especially from any attacks that the enemy has planned. Keep them steadfast in their faith as they shepherd your people.

I pray that we will be faithful in supporting, praying for, and encouraging them along the way. May we live our lives with the same kind of love and honor that you have given to us, as we live as children of the light. Continue to transform us so that we can go out and make an impact for your kingdom.

Romans 14, Paul exhorts the Roman church to abstain from judging one another over disputable matters, such as food or days of worship. He emphasizes that God alone is the ultimate Judge, and each believer is accountable to Him. Paul urges the church to avoid creating stumbling blocks for fellow believers, instead pursuing peace and mutual edification within the body of Christ. His message is a call to unity despite differences, with a focus on glorifying God.

Romans 15, Paul encourages believers to live as examples of Christ, who came not to please Himself but to serve others, fulfilling the promises of God to both Jews and Gentiles. He highlights his own calling as a minister to the Gentiles, sharing the gospel and bringing glory to God through his work.

Paul requests their continued prayers as he remains steadfast in his hope of visiting them in Rome, demonstrating his commitment to the mission God has given him.

Romans 16, Paul concludes his letter with warm greetings to his fellow workers and a heartfelt acknowledgment of their contributions to the gospel. He provides final instructions to the church, urging them to remain vigilant against false teachings and to stand firm in their faith.

Paul ends with a beautiful doxology, praising God for His wisdom and grace, which has been revealed through Jesus Christ to all nations.

Judgment is one of the hot topics of debate among believers because Scripture tells us not to judge but to judge with the right judgment (John 7:24). This is where we must decipher between righteous judgment and unrighteous judgment.

In general, judgment makes an evaluation about a person’s character, motive, or actions. That in and of itself is not the problem. It becomes an issue at the heart level. Righteous judgment comes from a place of love and the desire to help someone get right genuinely. It is based on God’s explicit Word and not someone’s opinion; it seeks to build up and desires unity.

Unrighteous judgment is based on opinion, seeks to tear down or condemn, does not care about unity, and is unloving and often self-righteous or hypocritical. At the surface level, you can already tell if judgment is righteous or unrighteous based on what accompanies it. It is probably righteous if someone is humble, loving, and compassionate in their approach.

But if someone looks like they just got baptized in lemon juice, with a scowl on their face, and with anger in their words, it is probably coming from a place of self-righteousness or pride. And this is generally unrighteous. Heart Check.

Are there any areas of your life where you may be judging others in an unrighteous manner?

Paul is telling the Romans to look at the bigger picture—at the end of this life, we will all stand before Christ and give an account for everything we said and did. We aren’t going to stand at the bema seat with Christ asking us, “So how should I judge so and so for doing this and that?” He’s not going to ask about anyone else’s life! So Paul is saying, “Worry about yourself before you go sniffing out everyone else’s sin.” Heart Check.

When Paul says not to let what you regard as good be spoken of as evil, the good he refers to is likely the freedom one has in Christ. Yes, we have the freedom to eat whatever we want, to tithe or not, to honor the Sabbath or not, to go to Disneyland or not, to watch movies or not. These are the kinds of hot topics that still exist today.

What Paul is saying is that we shouldn’t use that freedom to make someone else violate their belief or convictions. That isn’t loving, and it isn’t edifying. For example, if you believe that Disneyland is evil, don’t go. But don’t put that trip on someone else because you feel it is “unclean.”

Instead, Paul says to pursue peace and mutual upbuilding. In other words, stop bickering over non-essential issues because we will be held accountable for how we handle these things. Even if we believe that we are right, what makes it unright is when we come at someone with a condemning or self-righteous spirit just for the sake of being right.

If we truly feel someone is headed in the wrong direction, how we bring the truth in love with a desire to build them up rather than tear them down, will determine the rightness of rebuke. If we do it incorrectly, we could potentially ruin someone’s faith and, ultimately, our own witness. The best thing to do is ask yourself, “How would Jesus handle this?” Heart Check.

Are you strong enough in your faith to sacrifce your freedom for a period of time for the sake of a weaker brother or sister? Does self-righteousness or pride fuel your desire to ﬁght for the sake of being right? Or do you pursue peace and edifcation?

If Paul says to welcome each other as Christ welcomed us, then that means we are to have an open door, open arms policy full of grace and compassion, loving on people right where they are.

If they step foot at the door of our hearts, they should be standing on a mat that says, “Welcome in.”

If they are full of faulty ticks, we love them. If they are living in sin, we love them. If they are hurt and broken, we love them. If they interpret something in the Bible differently than us, we love them. If they are joyful and righteous, we love them.

Jesus said to come as you are, so we are to echo that to the world. But far too often, people are repulsed by Christians because of the walls and doors we have slammed shut in their faces. They want nothing to do with us when we’re over here bickering over what we should uniting over. Heart Check.

Do you have an open door, open arms policy? Do you welcome others in, just as Christ welcomed you? Or are you slamming doors in faces of those who seem to be unrighteous?

We spoke earlier about minding your own business, and Paul was really good at this. His whole mission was to welcome Gentiles into the family of God through the gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit. The greatest divide in the church starts with a lack of fruit.

But where there’s evangelism and missionary work, there’s revival, and fruit abounds. So if we, like Paul, focus on Jesus, who is the hope of the world, we will be minding our business of salvation. That’s our goal—to get people saved, not to destroy or divide. Heart Check.

What business are you minding? Are you in someone else’s business? Or in Christ’s business of getting people saved?

How do we handle decisions where scripture is silent or unclear? What role does the conscience or discernment play?

How can we balance personal responsibility with a commitment to support the broader mission of the church?

How does Phoebe’s role in the church challenge or affirm your beliefs about women in ministry?

How does the diversity of the listed individuals express God’s heart for the church?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for the liberty that we have in Christ.

Give us the wisdom to walk in both freedom and love. I pray that we never flaunt our freedom at the expense of someone else’s faith, especially those who may still be navigating righteousness or who may still be young in the faith. Help us to be strong in our faith while nurturing the weaknesses of others.

I pray that we will not cast judgment on anyone but instead, love one another with an agape love. Help us to see others as you do and treat them the same. Give us humility and compassion and take away any anger, pride, self-righteousness that may be lurking beneath the surface of our scowled foreheads. Instead, I pray that we will extend grace and latitude to others, especially in areas that are debatable and full of opinion.

Help us to rise above the desire to prove ourselves right and instead sacrifice that freedom for the sake of pursuing peace and unity. We know that we will all stand before you one day and give account for every word, motive, and action, so let us focus on our own standing with you.

Help us to recognize where we can help others and build them up, but never rebuke or correct with the intent to simply condemn someone. Increase our discernment and convict our hearts where we may be wrong in our thinking. We are not above being teachable, so I pray that we never think we know all things, and let us never hold our own rules and regulations ato be equal with your explicit commands.

Let everything we do be done in love and from love. Our love for you comes first and foremost, so that means that we will desire to live righteous and holy before you, and secondly we are to love others, which means treating them well. Our calling is to build up and edify, so let it be done.

Please continue to guide us in wisdom, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit, always prioritizing the values of the Kingdom above our own preferences. May we be living testimonies of your grace and kindness so that others will be drawn to you. Keep our consciences clear as we walk out our faith and desire to honor you. May everything we do be done with unity in mind.

Thank you, Jesus, for being so selfiess in everything you did and do. Your heart has always been to please the Father in the way that you loved us. Thank you for bearing our burdens, even when you were so undeserving of it. I pray that we will follow this same example in the way that we look to how we can build up and encourage people.

Thank you for your Word that has been around since the beginning of time as we know it. Every Word you spoke was for the purpose of teaching us and giving us a hope that sustains us for today and helps us to endure to tomorrow. May we find every ounce of strength and assurance that we need here. We ask that your Spirit will continue to guard our hearts and minds and mold our hearts into the likeness of yours. May the doormats of our hearts say, “Welcome in,” just the way that you did with us.

Help us to always fight for unity as we strive to live in harmony with one another, so that with one voice, we can glorify you. Thank you for the assignment and mission that you’ve given to us. I pray that you will fill us with all joy and peace, so that by your power, we will abound in hope. Continue to fill us with the knowledge of your Word so we can teach others. And may we strive with others in prayer so that we can play a role in restoring their joy and being a refreshing presence.

Thank you for your faithful servants who tirelessly labored in order to advance the gospel. I pray that we will all recognize our role within the church and use the gifts, position, and infiuence you have given to us to do the same. The church should be the most vivid display of your heart for diversity in this world. Help us to be a people who refiect that through the unity that we strive for. Help us to discern if there are any divisive, combative, or deceitful people among us and we pray for their hearts to be changed. But in the meantime, give us all the wisdom we need to deal with or avoid them as we fight to be innocent in what is evil. We look forward to the day that Satan is crushed under our feet, but until then, may we remain firm in our faith in you.

While the entire mystery of the gospel is not yet revealed, we are honored that you have revealed yourself to us. Keep us focused on your truth so that we will be found righteous when you return.

Acts 20, Paul concludes his three-year ministry in Ephesus and sets out on his travels to Macedonia, Corinth, and Troas, visiting churches he planted to encourage the believers. While preaching in Troas, he performs a miraculous act by raising Eutychus from the dead after the young man falls from a window during an extended sermon. In Miletus, Paul delivers an emotional farewell to the Ephesian elders, warning them of false teachers and urging them to guard the fiock. His journey to Judea begins as he boards a ship bound for Caesarea, where he meets Philip the Evangelist before ultimately heading to Jerusalem.

Acts 21, Paul continues his journey to Jerusalem despite warnings from others about the dangers he will face. He meets Philip, the evangelist, who faithfully continued his ministry since the Ethiopian eunuch's conversion, setting an example of enduring commitment to the gospel.hrough a series of misunderstandings, false accusations, and escalating tensions, Paul is ultimately arrested by Roman soldiers. His arrest is not the end of his mission but the beginning of a new phase: over the next five years in custody in Caesarea and Rome, Paul will continue to spread the gospel, sharing Jesus’ story with all who will listen. This chapter highlights Paul’s unwavering faith and obedience to God’s call, even in the face of suffering.

Acts 22, Paul shares his powerful testimony before a hostile crowd, recounting his encounter with Jesus on the road to Damascus. His story emphasizes the gospel's transformative power, showing how even a persecutor of Christians can become a passionate advocate for Christ. Paul’s obedience to Jesus’ command to “rise and go” refiects his faith in taking one step at a time, even without knowing the full plan. His testimony also highlights the importance of sharing personal experiences to point others to the Lord’s saving grace.

Acts 23, Paul stands trial before the Sanhedrin, where his boldness and wisdom are on display. He declares his clear conscience before God and strategically divides the Pharisees and Sadducees by focusing on the hope of the resurrection. Despite the opposition, Paul’s unwavering trust in God’s sovereignty shines through as Jesus assures him that he will testify in Rome. This chapter highlights God’s providence in protecting His servants and His ability to use every circumstance for His glory and the advancement of the gospel.

Just like John the Baptist and Jesus Himself, Paul preached repentance. This is one of the central messages of the gospel because it is the vehicle that takes you down the right path to restore your relationship with God.

You literally have to make a turn, and that is where the transformation begins. Yet many people and even churches shy away from this message because of how the enemy has tainted it. He has twisted this beautiful word and has made it seem condemning. When you hear the word “repent,” it often invokes that feeling of wrongdoing or guilt, possibly because of how this word has been presented in a doomsday fashion.

But Paul told us in Acts 2:4 that it’s God’s kindness that leads us to repentance. If we aren’t displaying His kindness, we will likely fail to lead others to recognize their need for Jesus if they see nothing good about Him in us. Heart Check.

Do you display the kindness of Jesus? Are you helping others see His goodness thus leading them to repentance and salvation?

Paul’s success was contingent upon one thing—that he finished the race. He didn’t care to win the gold medal or gain a massive following because he knew it meant nothing if he didn’t complete his assignment.

The world tells us that our success is based upon what we can show for our work, whether money or a big house. But in God’s economy, success looks a lot different. For Paul, it was toiling, sleepless nights, beatings, and sacrifice. But as long as he was preaching the gospel, he felt like he was in the lead and winning the race. What about you? Heart Check.

What do you view as true success? Are you focused on what you can get in this life? Or is your heart set on finishing the race that God has placed you in?

It has been rightly said that the happiest person is not the one who has the most but the one who needs the least. Paul was one of those people.

In fact, if you look up the word “contentment” in the dictionary, you will find Paul’s name there (not really, although it should be). He was so content with what he had that he never fell into the trap of want and coveting. In today’s “gotta have it” society, this is becoming harder and harder to do. My shopping habits are now based upon whether I can get same-day delivery. If Amazon tells me something is going to arrive in 2 days, I’m canceling my order.

But the Bible doesn’t promise this kind of instant gratification or same-day delivery, and this is why some people have a hard time with faith—because they’re in it for what they get out of God rather than what they can give unto God. Heart Check.

What is your priority? To give unto God? Or to get something from Him? Are you content with what you have or focused on what you don’t have?

Philip was the man in chapter 8 who converted the Ethiopian eunuch. After that, he continued to preach, and here he is years later in Caesarea, still preaching. This earned him his one word title of “evangelist.” I thought to myself, what will I be remembered as? Heart Check.

If you had one word could be attached to your name at the end of your life, what will it be? What would you like it to be? Are you living it out?

At one point or another, we have probably asked the question, “Lord, what do you want me to do?” It is also probable that He gave us an answer, yet many of us likely didn’t move because we couldn’t see beyond that first step. We wanted the whole plan. But faith doesn’t operate that way. If we knew everything and could see everything, it wouldn’t be faith. Spiritual 20/20 doesn’t require good physical sight. And one of the biggest reasons why the Lord blinds us is because He knows that what’s up ahead will likely freak us out. It’s all a part of His grace toward us. He isn’t withholding information to be mean or because He’s an ego maniac. He’s doing it so that we will rise and go. Heart Check.

Are you demanding the whole plan before you move? Or are you being faithful in one step at a time?

How much of a priority was preaching God’s Word in Paul’s mission? How does it fare in today’s ministry? What are the results?

How does “it is better to give than to receive” summarize the heart of the gospel?

Did Paul disobey or was he following a Holy Spirit conviction to Jerusalem? How do we know the difference?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, As we walk this journey with Paul, we are inspired to live lives that will encourage others in the faith.

I pray that we will be faithful ministers, willing to go when and where you call us, remaining fiexible at every turn and listening for your guidance, enduring through any turbulence and not stopping at the roablocks. Help us to stay focused on the mission with the end goal of coming to your table to feast and break bread. Lead us by your Holy Spirit and help us to clearly discern your whisper, especially when others are shouting at us. Let us be bound in your Spirit so that our conviction will speak louder than others’ misguided prophecy.

Until then, I pray that we will live our lives fully surrendered to you. Help us to consider this life as invaluable compared to the completion of the assignment you’ve given to us. I pray that we will prioritize your kingdom above our own wants or needs, trusting that you will provide and protect as we fulfill your purpose here on earth as it is in heaven.

Help us to show others your kindness that leads to repentance. As we give of ourselves in sacrifice, we know that your heart will be on display, for it is indeed better to give than to receive. I pray that we will walk that out each day, looking for opportunities to help, build up, and encourage others.

Increase our discernment to be able to recognize any wolves who may be in sheep’s clothing, distorting your truth and leaving a fiock in their wake. May we be protectors of the fiock, in the way that we declare your entire Word so that they are ready when there is an attack. Keep us rooted in your grace, knowing that it is sufficient for our every need.

Help us to maintain unity the way Paul did, never compromising on your truth, but being willing to promote peace and to build bridges. If we face any false accusations, I pray that we will have the same kind of peace and composure that Paul did. We know that you are our ultimate Defender and that your truth will prevail.

As we barrel down our own road to Damascus, please meet us there each day. Open our eyes to see your truth and open our ears to hear your voice. Even if we don’t have physical sight and the ability to hear, give us spiritual 20/20. I pray that when you tell us to rise and go, that we will take each step of obedience, knowing that you will reveal the forthcoming steps upon arrival, for we walk by faith and not by sight.

Thank you for the way that you redeemed Paul’s failures—it is a wonderful reminder that no one is too far gone to be saved. No one is beyond your reach, especially when it comes to accomplishing your purposes. Help us to be a people who share how you’ve taken what was broken and faulty and transformed it into something beautiful. And may we continue to trust you and your plan, knowing that it is working out for our good, even when we are facing hardship or opposition. Keep our consciences clear as we live our lives with integrity so that we can stand confidently before anyone, knowing that we have been submitted to you.

Thank you for the beautiful reminder to be of good cheer today, for you are with us in every season of our lives. You are with us in the prison and valleys just as you are on the mountaintops. You will protect us with whatever means you see fit, so help us to trust in that provision and not fear any impending threats.

I pray that we will be discerning, like Paul, especially when it comes to navigating such complex situations. Give us wisdom to speak truth with love and boldness but always displaying respect and humility. Let us be ambassadors of your gospel in every conversation that we have. Strengthen our faith, knowing that wherever you lead us, every step has already been carved out for us, so all we need to do is put one foot in front of the other in faith.

Acts 24, Paul stands trial before Felix, the governor of Caesarea. The prosecution, led by Tertullus, levels false accusations against Paul, claiming he is a troublemaker and a ringleader of the Nazarene sect. Paul responds by presenting a clear and truthful defense, asserting his innocence, and explaining his purpose for being in Jerusalem: to worship and deliver aid to his people.

Felix, intrigued by Paul's faith, decides to delay judgment and provides protection for Paul while the case is further examined.

Acts 25, Paul faces the tribunal again, confronted with more false charges by the Jewish leaders. Festus, the new governor, hears Paul’s case but struggles to determine a proper judgment. Paul boldly appeals to Caesar, asserting his right as a Roman citizen to have his case heard in Rome.

King Agrippa and Bernice are invited by Festus to attend the next tribunal to help clarify the charges against Paul, as Festus prepares to send him to Caesar.

Acts 26, Paul delivers a powerful testimony before King Agrippa. He recounts his early life as a Pharisee, his zealous persecution of Christians, and his life-changing encounter with the risen Jesus on the road to Damascus. Paul passionately shares the message of the gospel and explains his mission to proclaim it to both Jews and Gentiles.

King Agrippa listens closely, even acknowledging Paul’s arguments, but ultimately provides no resolution to Paul’s case.

Paul has a clear conscience before God and man because he ensures he is living with integrity. If he is ever convicted in his spirit about something, he goes and makes it right.

One of my best friends came to me one day to ask forgiveness for envying me. I told her she didn’t owe me any apologies because she had done nothing wrong. But in reading this, I understand that she was being Paul-like in clearing her conscience in that confession, and I admire her for that. Heart Check.

Is there anything weighing on your conscience that may need to be confessed or cleared?

Paul defended himself with so much grace and clarity. Unlike his accusers, He didn’t react angrily—he simply presented the facts. We are dealing with a legal issue within our family right now, where false accusations are being thrown our way. And while the fiesh wants to yell out in defense, it is an actual test of our own faith in whether we will allow the Lord to defend us and the truth to set us free. Remember, it’s the testing that proves whether we can apply the material that we’ve learned. Heart Check.

How do you respond when you are falsely accused or when your character is questioned?

Sadly, Christianity piqued Felix’s interest, but not enough to curb the resistance that kept him from getting saved. Two years later, he was dethroned from power, and his wife died in a volcanic eruption at Mt. Vesuvius. They ultimately succumbed to one of the enemy’s greatest ploys: “Not yet.”

He will tell you that you have plenty of time, or that you can do it later. But none of us know if tomorrow will come, and the Lord will only wrestle with us for so long. He will always be there should you come home, but He won’t knock forever.

I am seeing so many young deaths lately, at what seems to be an alarming rate. I thank God that most of them knew Jesus from a young age. Statistics show that most salvations occur before the age of 19, and after that, the resistance and desensitization grows exponentially and it becomes much harder to live for Christ. Heart Check.

Are you succumbing to “not yet”? Are you delaying your obedience to the calling of God? What’s holding you back?

In the end of this reading, we see how Paul used every opportunity to be a witness and to testify to anyone and everyone he could. He embraced the season he was in and made the most of it. Heart Check.

Why did Paul tailor his message to Felix and Drusilla to emphasize righteousness, self-control, and judgment?

What does Paul’s appeal to Caesar reveal about his understanding of God’s purpose for his life? What would the alternative have been if he didn’t?

Why was Paul so focused on the resurrection as a central part of his message? How does the resurrection shape your understanding of the gospel?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, What an incredible display of faith we see today.

No matter what Paul faced, his faith and resolve was so firmly planted in you. I pray that we will be the same, especially in seasons of injustice or waiting.

Help us to trust in your faithfulness and in your timing, knowing that you are preparing us for something greater and that you are working it out for our good. Until then, may we continue to live with integrity so that by your truth, we will be set free. Let us remain steadfast in our mission and purpose, even if things seem a little stagnant. And may our response or defense always be seasoned with grace. Give us the words to speak and the right heart in which to say them.

I pray that we will always have a clear conscience before you and others. Search our hearts today, and if there are any areas where we may be harboring unforgiveness, envy, or anything else that is not pleasing to you, help us to make it right so that we can bring honor to your name and freedom to our souls.

Let us never shy away from speaking about righteousness, self-control, and judgment. May we always present it with clarity, boldness, but also humility. Help us to see others through your eyes so that we can tailor the truth to their situation. And I pray that there will be response to the conviction that is felt in the hearts of those who hear it. Remove any distractions or fears that may be keeping us from responding to you in obedience.

Let us find the opportunity to glorify you in all things, especially when we face opposition. Show us who we can witness to and the courage to do it, no matter their status or position. Give us the wisdom we need to speak your Word with clarity and grace, always ensuring that we are leading them to you. Help us to live with intention, trusting that you are establishing our steps.

Help us to map out our own testimony so that when we do have an opportunity to share it, we can do so with confidence just the way that Paul did. May we testify to your grace, your goodness, your redemption, and your love. Let every word always point others to you and not ourselves.

Equip us with whatever we need to be faithful witnesses so that we can share your Light in world that is fiooded with darkness and despair. Let your hope burst forth through our words and actions and may they see you in a new light as you open their eyes to the truth.

Soften hearts that may be resistant to the gospel and give us patience, knowing that you are at work even if we can’t see it. Thank you that no one is beyond your reach. I pray that we can see all people through your lenses of grace and compassion.

Let us live with the same passion that Paul had, desiring all to come to the faith. Give us perseverance to keep pursuing hearts for the purpose of building the kingdom and glorifying your great name.

Acts 27, Paul embarks on a perilous journey to Rome as a prisoner, but his leadership and faith shine through in the midst of disaster. Despite warnings, the crew sets sail and is caught in a violent storm that threatens their lives. Paul comforts and encourages everyone on board, demonstrating his trust in God’s promise of deliverance. Even in the chaos, Paul’s calm, practical leadership and steadfast faith provide a powerful witness to the sailors and soldiers.

The chapter ends with God fulfilling His promise, as all 276 people aboard survive the shipwreck and reach the island of Malta.

Acts 28, Paul’s ministry continues on Malta, where he heals the sick and shares the gospel after surviving a venomous snake bite. Upon arriving in Rome, Paul is placed under house arrest but remains focused on preaching the kingdom of God to Jews and Gentiles alike. Some accept the message, but others reject it, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy about hardened hearts.

Even in chains, Paul’s unwavering commitment to the gospel serves as a powerful reminder of God’s sovereignty and purpose in all circumstances. The book of Acts concludes with Paul boldly proclaiming the gospel for two years in Rome.

Storms in life often arrive without warning, giving us no time to prepare. Like the sailors who ignored Paul’s warning and sailed into danger, we sometimes dismiss signs that we’re heading toward trouble. Sin can create storms of our own making—when we “play with fire,” we risk being consumed by it. Yet, there are also storms beyond our control: unexpected losses, illness, financial crises, and more.

In moments when we feel swept away, the key is surrender. When Kanoe and I discussed this while building Heart Dive, she described feeling like she was drowning in man-made expectations and plans. Her intentions were noble, but the Spirit and fiesh were at war. My advice to her—and to anyone caught in a rip current of life—was simple: let go. Stop fighting against the current and trust God to guide you to safety. Heart Check.

Are you holding on too tightly to your plans? Will you trust God to deliver you through the storm?

True leadership shines brightest in the midst of adversity. Paul exemplifies this by comforting, encouraging, and serving those aboard the doomed ship. He shows both spiritual depth and practical wisdom, blending prayer and thanksgiving with actionable guidance. Paul’s calm demeanor and confidence in God’s promises inspire hope in the hopeless. As John Stott notes, Paul was “a man of God and of action, a man of the Spirit and of common sense.”

Paul’s leadership also included subtle but powerful witness. He gave thanks to God publicly before eating, showing the crew where his hope lay. In secular settings, we can follow Paul’s example by being agents of hope, speaking truth with grace, and living out our faith even when aggressive evangelism isn’t possible. Heart Check.

Who would you want beside you in life’s storms? Are you leading others with wisdom and faith?

Paul cites Isaiah 6:9–10 to describe the Jewish leaders’ hardened hearts. They hear and see the truth but refuse to act, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy of spiritual blindness. Paul’s analogy reminds us that hearing God’s Word always produces a response—either hearts are softened and drawn to Him, or they grow harder and reject Him. As Merida notes, “The same sun that melts the ice also hardens the clay.” Neutrality toward the gospel isn’t an option.

For believers and unbelievers alike, the challenge is clear: will we hear, see, and understand with our hearts? Will we turn to God and experience His healing? Heart Check:

Do you see? Do you hear? Do you understand with your heart? Have you turned to God for healing?

What storms in your life have tested your trust in God? How did He show His faithfulness?

How does Paul’s example in Acts 27 challenge your view of leadership in difficult circumstances?

What does it mean to have an open heart to God’s Word? How do you guard against spiritual hardness?

What lessons can we learn from Paul’s perilous voyage and prison transport about perseverance and faith in the face of real human responsibility vs God’s providence?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank You for Your gracious providence in the face of our storms.

When the waves rise and the winds howl, remind us that You are the One who calms the sea. Your love anchors us in every storm, and Your presence gives us peace amidst uncertainty. May we always have a heart of gratitude, no matter the season—whether in the midst of storms or the blessings of calm waters. Teach us to see Your favor in all things, knowing that even trials serve to draw us closer to You.

Lord, we see in Paul’s journey how You work through suffering, redirections, and challenges to accomplish Your purposes. Strengthen us to trust in Your plans, even when they’re not what we expect. Help us to surrender not only our plans but also our fears, doubts, and desires into Your capable hands. May we take responsibility for our own growth and discipleship, seeking godly character and Christian love that overfiows into the lives of those who desperately need it.

Teach us to lead with wisdom, to love without growing weary, and to refiect the light of Christ in a world that desperately needs hope. Father, as Paul proclaimed Your Word boldly, may we too be proactive in sharing the gospel. Let our lives point others to Your saving grace and truth, rallying people around Your Word, Your mission, and the good news of Jesus Christ.

Teach us to give generously, not for our own recognition or gain, but for the advancement of Your kingdom. May our radical generosity inspire others to give and serve, so that Your message is proclaimed above all else—not our names, our reputations, or our human endeavors.

We confess that in our humanity, we will fail, disappoint, and misjudge at times. But, Lord, may we never lead anyone astray. Instead, surround us with tutors, mentors, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to keep us on the straight and narrow path, even when storms try to blow us off course. Bring us the wisdom and discernment to lead others well, always pointing them to You. Father, when the storms of life threaten to overwhelm us, remind us to let go of our striving and trust in Your sovereignty. We are not called to fight You but to surrender to You, knowing that You are the One who will carry us through.

Let our faith be unshakable, our hope unwavering, and our hearts full of gratitude for Your love and grace. May we finish our race with integrity, refiecting Your goodness and glorifying You in all that we do. In Jesus’ powerful and precious name, we pray. Amen.

Colossians 1, Paul writes to the church in Colossae, opening his letter with heartfelt gratitude and praise to the Lord. He expresses his continual prayers for the church, thanking God for their faith and love. Paul emphasizes the supremacy of Christ, describing Him as the image of the invisible God and the Creator of all things.

Paul recounts his ministry, highlighting the calling God placed on his life to proclaim the mystery of Christ, even amidst great hardship and suffering.

Colossians 2, Paul assures the Colossian believers of his deep love for them and his commitment to their spiritual growth. He encourages them to remain firmly rooted in Christ, warning against deceptive philosophies and human traditions that could lead them astray. Paul stresses the fullness of Christ, reminding them that in Him, they have been made complete and freed from the legalistic demands of the world. He exhorts them to focus on the power of Christ’s work, not on regulations or rituals that cannot save.

Colossians 3, Paul describes the transformative power of Christ in the life of a believer, calling them to set their hearts and minds on things above.

He contrasts the old sinful nature with the new self, marked by compassion, kindness, humility, and love. Paul outlines specific virtues that should characterize followers of Christ, emphasizing unity and forgiveness. He extends these principles to the household, encouraging each member to embrace their God-given roles with love and respect, creating a Christ-centered family dynamic.

Colossians 4, Paul concludes his letter with a call to steadfast prayer, thanksgiving, and a wise witness toward unbelievers. He reminds the Colossians of their role as bondservants of Christ, urging them to live out their faith with grace and intentionality. Paul commends his fellow workers and sends greetings from the saints, reinforcing the unity of the body of Christ.

The letter closes with an invitation to share his words with others and continue supporting one another in their faith journey.

Philemon, This brief and personal letter is addressed to Philemon, a fellow believer and leader of a house church. Paul begins with encouragement, expressing gratitude for Philemon’s faith and the love he shows to fellow believers. He then makes a heartfelt plea for Onesimus, a runaway servant who has become a follower of Christ, asking Philemon to welcome him back as a brother in the Lord.

Paul offers his personal assurance, even taking on any debts Onesimus may owe, demonstrating Christ-like humility and reconciliation. The letter concludes with supportive words from other believers and a reminder of the unity and forgiveness central to the gospel message.

Paul lays a really great foundation for our prayer life—that we aren’t to only pray for those who are in need, but also pray for a continual blessing upon those are blessed. Both are needed, but it’s a great reminder to also pray for those who don’t seem to need anything, because we know that the enemy will do anything to destroy those who are doing well in the kingdom. Heart Check.

This verse doesn’t imply that Jesus’ atoning sacrifice was somehow incomplete or not enough, but rather the understanding that our sufferings are opportunities to relate to Jesus in ways that we wouldn’t otherwise.

If Christ were still in the fiesh today, He would be dealing with the same kinds of afflictions, if not worse, that He did when He walked the earth. Until He returns, we continue in those afflictions as we walk out our faith and are therefore able to identify with Jesus. But Paul counted it as joy, knowing that every trial was an opportunity to advance the gospel and grow in faith. Heart Check.

How do you look at trials or suffering? Do you count it as joy and look for the opportunity to grow in your faith?

My son is cutting weight in wrestling right now, and he keeps asking if he can have “just one bite” of different things. I keep explaining to him that he can do anything he wants, but if he doesn’t commit to making weight, those “one bites” will end up biting him on the scale later. The best thing he can do is cut it out completely so that he can strengthen his mind when the real temptation comes. It’s just like how Paul says to put earthly things to death so we don’t feed death to our souls. The first things he mentions are the big ticket items that most of us see as sinful, like sexual immorality or idolatry.

However, he also mentions things like lying, anger, and obscene talk, which usually get swept under the rug as everyday or normal tendencies. But if we know that sin is sin and all is subject to the judgment, we should not be comfortable with taking just one bite here and there. Heart Check.

Is there anything that you’re wrestling with in your ﬂesh that needs to be put to death? Have you put off the old self and put on the new?

When Paul says, “Forgive as He has forgiven you,” he is not just saying that because Christ forgives, we too should forgive. This goes a step further in saying that in the way Jesus forgives, we must also forgive.

A lot of the time, when we say we forgive someone, it usually has conditions and skepticism attached to it, or it places the “offender” in a lowly position and makes them bear some sort of penalty or sentencing before it is given. But that’s not how Christ forgives us. He comes to us first, offering the forgiveness even though we don’t deserve it.

Prior to that, He bears with our stubbornness and waits patiently for us to finally surrender. He forgives us, knowing that we will likely sin again, and He sets us free from any guilt or condemnation. He bore the penalty and told us that we don’t owe anything. Heart Check.

From the beginning of time, mankind was supposed to work. Before Adam even had a wife, he had a job. For many of us, when our “Sunday” rolls around, there’s a little bit of drudgery that wells up within us. But what Paul is saying here is that if we can shift our mindset to look at our work as an opportunity to serve the Lord, we may be able to eliminate some of that dread. If we change our language from, “I don’t want to go to work tomorrow” or “I have to go to work tomorrow,” to “I’m so grateful I have a job” or “I get to go to work tomorrow,” we may even change our entire outlook on life itself. Heart Check.

How do you see your job? Is it something you dread or do you work heartily and see it as an opportunity to serve God?

Most of the time, when we think of church, we think of the brick-and-mortar building that many of us gather in on the weekends. While that is a wonderful thing to do, the greatest of churches is the one that is in our homes.

We all think that pastors have the responsibility to shepherd us, but we carry that same responsibility with those we live with. Just like a church, our homes should be a place of prayer, praise and worship, teaching, fellowship, accountability, healing, and a home base to go out and minister to those outside. Heart Check.

It’s apparent that Philemon was a really good guy in the way that he was a like a glass of cold water on a hot day. He brought joy to others, encouraging them in their faith, growing them in their love, and he had a heart of generosity. We don’t have to be rich like Philemon to be a refreshing presence in the lives of others. Heart Check.

Does your presence refresh and encourage others? Are you helpful and giving? Or do you add weight to the burden people carrying by being demanding of their time and resources?

When Paul uses this word “perhaps,” it’s his way of saying that God works in mysterious ways, and his hope is that Philemon can find the good in the situation, knowing that God is working it for good. This is how we too should approach life’s situations. Heart Check.

Are you able to see the good in your situations? Do you trust that God is working all things for your good?

What assurances do we have a hard time grasping in its fullness? What limits it? Why was Paul so concerned about this? How does it affect our faith?

What teachings in the Bible are the greatest mysteries to those whom they have not been revealed?

If Paul were to warn the church today to “be careful,” what issues might he address?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for the faith, hope, and love that you have given to us through the work of the cross.

Because of you, Jesus, we are rescued from the dominion of darkness and from a life that could so easily be miserable, but you have set us free. You have forgiven every sin and we are redeemed through the precious blood of Christ, presenting us as pure, holy, and blameless to the Father. Thank you. We declare that you are indeed God and supreme over all creation, both in the spiritual and in the physical.

We want to pray for those who are blessed and also those who are in need today. Thank you for their faith and love that is being poured out. Please protect them from falling into the hands of the enemy, and may they continue to bear fruit and increase in knowledge, wisdom, and understanding. You know what is ahead of them, so go before them and stand guard behind them as well. May they continue to grow in spiritual maturity as they walk out their faith in a manner that is worthy of the Lord, pleasing you in everything they do. Help us to set our minds on things above and not on the things of this world. Help us to put to death anything that is leading us away from you. Clothe us in humility, compassion, kindness, gentleness, and patience. Strengthen us in your power, giving us everything we need to endure in times of trial, filling us with joy unspeakable that comes only from you. Give a love that is compassionate, stable, and sure.

Lord, we marvel at the mystery you have revealed to us. I pray that as we understand that the hope of glory dwells in us, we will live our lives fully rooted in this truth. Help us to boldly proclaim that you are Lord and may we labor for your kingdom, not or what we can get but simply because we want to honor you.

I pray that through every suffering or trial, we will see it as an opportunity to grow in our faith and to share the gospel as we identify with you. Give us wisdom and understanding so that we may discern what to say and how it can speak into the lives of those who are before us. May we rejoice in every affliction, knowing that you are with us and that the weight of glory pales in comparison to any heaviness we face.

Guard our hearts and minds against any sort of false teachings. Especially protect us from the things that show up in subtle ways, convincing us through intellect that sounds good or through false humility or legalism. Free us from any desire to try to work to find favor with you. Anything that leads us away from your truth is hollow and holds no value, so let us hold fast to your Word. Let us be rooted and built up in our faith, and may our hearts overfiow with gratitude for all that you’ve done.

Thank you for raising us to new life, spiritually circumcising our hearts. We rejoice in the redemption we have in you, Jesus, as you have cancelled every debt and nailed every sin to the cross. Only by your Spirit can we be transformed, so fill us afresh today so we can live freely and stand firm in you, bringing you glory in all things.

May we continue to be a people of earnest prayer, being watchful and thankful in all circumstances. May our words be seasoned with salt as we speak words of grace, love, and truth. And bless our relationships and friendships. For those who may be feeling lonely in this season, surround them with people who love you and will love them. I pray that we will be a source of refreshment and encouragement to others, refiecting your character in the way we love and forgive. May you be glorified in all things as we work heartily as unto you.

Ephesians 1, Paul opens his letter to the believers in Ephesus with praise for the blessings and spiritual riches afforded through Christ Jesus. He emphasizes their promised inheritance as God's chosen people and the redemptive work of Christ that unites them with God. Paul expresses deep gratitude for their faith and love and assures them of his continual prayers for their spiritual wisdom and understanding.

Ephesians 2, Paul elaborates on the gospel of grace, reminding the Ephesians that salvation comes through faith, not works, so no one may boast. He highlights the transformative power of God's grace, which brings life to those who were once spiritually dead. Paul declares that all believers, whether Jew or Gentile, are citizens of God's household, united through the cross of Christ.

Ephesians 3, Paul reveals the mystery of the gospel: that Gentiles are co-heirs with the Jews, forming one unified body in Christ. He describes his calling to preach this mystery to the Gentiles, emphasizing the boundless riches of Christ available to all who believe. Paul closes with a heartfelt prayer for the church, asking that they remain rooted in faith and filled with the immeasurable love of Christ.

Ephesians 4, Paul calls the church to unity, urging believers to live in a manner worthy of their calling in Christ. He explains that Christ is the head of the body, uniting and equipping each member with unique gifts to build up the church. Paul encourages them to shed their former sinful ways and embrace a new life in righteousness and holiness.

Ephesians 5, Paul challenges believers to live as imitators of God, walking in love and light while avoiding immorality and impurity. He warns against foolish living and urges them to make the most of every opportunity, being filled with the Spirit. Paul compares marriage to the relationship between Christ and the church, illustrating God’s design for love, sacrifice, and unity in the family.

Ephesians 6, Paul continues his teaching on relationships, emphasizing the importance of honoring one another within households and communities. He addresses children, parents, masters, and servants, urging them to refiect Christ's love in their interactions. Paul concludes with the powerful metaphor of the armor of God, encouraging believers to stand firm in spiritual battles by equipping themselves with truth, righteousness, faith, and the Word of God.

Paul ends here with a focus on the church, through which the fullness of Christ is expressed by the connection we have in the body. All believers play a vital role in the church in the way that His love, grace, and power is manifested through us a living vessels. It is our job, as the church, to carry out His mission in the interim or until He returns. Just like our body parts, one is not more important than the other, regardless of their function.

But they need to be connected to the body in order to function properly. This means, we too, need to stay connected to the body of believers and not have a lone ranger mentality. Heart Check.

Paul’s prayers are more focused on intangible and spiritual aspects, rather than asking for wants and needs. While there’s nothing wrong with asking God for what we want and need… Heart Check.

What are you prayers focused on? Physical needs? Or wisdom and understanding? Or both?

Here is the explicit statement in the Bible that denies the argument that because we are not saved by works, we need not do any works. Here, Paul clearly says that we were created for good works and therefore we should walk in them. These are things like serving those in need, practicing generosity, encouraging and building others up, pursuing holiness, avoiding sin, sharing the gospel, making disciples, fighting for unity, loving people, and the list goes on.

God’s grace wasn’t for a one time event at salvation. It’s immeasurable, so until Jesus comes back, we are going to be in constant need of it as we walk out our faith. Heart Check.

The word “therefore” has a lot of weight on it. It implies that what was said before all of this is the standard by which everything that is about to be said is measured. The first three chapters of Ephesians lay the groundwork of our faith and of the church. If we don’t have a solid understanding of this, we will lose our footing in chapter 4-6 when Paul starts to give us the rules of Christian living. It will feel more like a burden rather than parameters that are intended to protect our freedom. The first chapters are like our home base. It’s kind of like when you fiy a drone-- before every takeoff, the drone plots a home point so that if it should lose signal in the air, it will know how to get back.

The other day, I was capturing video of my son’s wrestling team as they climbed a mountain together, and every time my drone went around the corner of the mountain, it would lose signal, and I’d have to hit the RTH button or else risk the drone crashing. If we don’t plot our home base, we too, will end up crashing the moment we hit a little bit of turbulence or the moment we feel like we’ve lost connection to God. Heart Check.

Is the home base of your faith plotted in your heart? Do you know how to return to home if you lose connection?

We have the amazing privilege of being called Christ’s representatives here on earth, and this is why Paul is so adamant about giving them the framework on how to live out that calling, because people are watching us. Ultimately, it grieves His heart when we when our attitudes and actions put a barrier between us and Him while also making it difficult for Him to work through us. Being kind to one another, however, will bring Him joy.

How well are you representing Him? Is your walk marked with humility, patience, kindness, forbearance, unity, peace, and love? Are you living in the new life?

Paul takes a little detour for a second to speak on this profound mystery of how earthly marriages are a refiection of Christ’s relationship with the church. If we lived out our marriages in the way that He died for the church and we, therefore, loved and respected Him because He is so good to us, then every marriage would thrive. But if we can’t grasp this concept, it won’t make sense, and we will be resistant to it on both sides. Heart Check.

How do you view marriage and submission? Does it reflect Christ’s relationship with the church?

How is the concept of redemption through Christ’s blood relate to the Old Testament sacrificial system? Why is this relevant to us as believers?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for these powerful truths that have been revealed through this letter by Paul.

We are so grateful that you have included us in your eternal plan, chosen to do good works, with the promise for spiritual blessings. Thank you, that by your blood, we are holy and blameless in your sight. You have redeemed us and lavished your grace upon us, giving us freedom to live under an open heaven in the here and now. We don’t have to wait for heaven to experience it—you intended for us to have a taste of heaven on earth. Thank you for that beautiful inheritance we have as your children. I pray that if anyone is caught in a little confusion about it all, that you would open the eyes of their hearts to fully understand the hope that we have in you and the greatness of your power at work within each one of us.

Thank you for bringing us, who were once dead in our sins, back to life. It’s only because of your steadfast love and mercy that we have access to this free gift of grace. There’s nothing that we could ever do to earn it, so let us never boast about our spirituality but maintain a gentle and meek spirit as we live as your handiwork. Thank you for breaking down any walls of hostility that have tried to prevail. We will continue to pursue peace and fight for unity until you return.

Please strengthen us by your power and help us to grasp just how wide, how long, how high, and how deep your love is for us. It’s a love that doesn’t make sense, but it is the most beautiful love that we could ever know. As you dwell within us, help us to share that same love with others.

Please teach us to live our lives worthy of the calling we have received. I pray that we will bear with one another with patience and gentleness. Help us to continue to build one another up so that we can strengthen the body of Christ, grow in our own spiritual maturity, and ultimately refiect your nature.

I pray that we will throw off our old selves and don the new garments of righteousness and holiness that are available to us. And let us live as children of the light, shining your goodness everywhere we go. I pray that we will make the best use of our time and make the most of every opportunity as we live by the guidance of your wisdom and Holy Spirit. Most of all, I pray that through our relationships, we will refiect your love in the way that we honor one another.

Please strengthen us for each battle that is up ahead. You already see them and know them, so I pray that you will give us the very Word that we will need in order to go on the offensive. Equip us with the full armor of God.

We embrace your Word as the ultimate truth and ground ourselves in it as we walk with integrity. We rely on your righteousness and protection as we live our lives in holiness and righteousness that comes only from you. We stand firm in your peace during every trial and tribulation and will share your gospel with confidence. Please strengthen our faith as we read your Word, and trust in your promises. Renew our minds daily and help us to rest assured in your salvation. May we remain alert and vigilant, praying fervently and consistently.

Thank you, Lord, that you are able to do immeasurably more than we could ever ask for or imagine. To you be all glory forever and ever.

Philippians 1, Paul and Timothy open their letter to the church in Philippi with heartfelt thanksgiving and prayer, expressing deep gratitude for their partnership in the Gospel.

Paul refiects on his imprisonment, emphasizing how it has served to advance the Gospel as others are emboldened to preach Christ. He shares his hope in Christ, declaring that whether he lives or dies, his ultimate desire is to honor Christ in all things. His bold statement, "To live is Christ, and to die is gain," refiects his unwavering faith and eternal perspective.

Philippians 2, Paul highlights the humility of Christ, urging believers to adopt the same mindset of servanthood and selfiessness. He describes Christ’s willingness to humble Himself, even to the point of death on a cross, as the ultimate example of love and obedience.

Believers are called to work out their salvation with reverence, shining as lights in the world through their actions and attitudes. Paul updates the Philippians about his plan to send Timothy to them soon, while currently sending Epaphroditus, who has recovered from a serious illness, to encourage them.

Philippians 3, Paul warns against placing confidence in fieshly achievements, sharing his own background as a Pharisee and how he considers it all loss compared to knowing Christ. He explains the righteousness that comes through faith in Christ, not through the law. Paul likens his spiritual journey to running a race, pressing on toward the goal of eternal life and the heavenly reward in Christ. He encourages believers to keep their focus on the eternal prize.

Philippians 3, Paul concludes his letter with practical exhortations, urging the Philippians to stand firm in the Lord and live in unity. He encourages them to rejoice always, be gentle, and present their requests to God through prayer and thanksgiving, assuring them that God’s peace will guard their hearts and minds. Paul shares his testimony of God’s faithfulness, expressing gratitude for the Philippians’ support and urging them to trust in God’s provision.

The letter closes with a message of contentment, as Paul reminds them that he has learned to be content in all circumstances through the strength Christ provides.

It’s been a decade since Paul started the church in Philippi, and he is praising God for how the Philippians have maintained their faith and partnership in the gospel. Paul is likely referring to the way they have been so financially generous, but there are other ways to partner with ministries when that kind of giving is not an option.

One of the most significant ways to link arms is to pray for and, with them, encourage those who are actively serving; you can serve in areas where your giftings could meet needs or simply get on board with the mission. Heart Check.

This is one of the best scriptures to read toward the end of the year, because it reminds us that even if we didn’t meet our goals or have unfinished business, that is not a part of God’s vocabulary. When He starts something, He will be faithful to complete it. He’s all about finishing the work and finishing well.

Even if we fail in our partnership with Him, He doesn’t give up on us, so don’t let the enemy make you think otherwise. All he wants to do is to rob you of any joy that you may have, so if you are in a season of discouragement, use it as an opportunity to draw closer to the Lord. Heart Check.

Do you have unfnished business that is lingering in your life? Are you trusting that God will give you the grace you need to complete it?

The knowledge that Paul is speaking of is the kind of knowledge that only comes from relationship. It’s like reading someone’s resume—you might know a lot about that person on the surface level, but to really know them would require time spent with them, with conversation and witnessing how they handle different situations.

This knowledge goes hand in hand with love. The more you love someone, the more you should know about them. That’s how it is with Christ. The more we love Him, the more we will desire to know Him and the greater our discernment will be. Heart Check.

Paul sees the good in his imprisonment. He looks at it as an opportunity to preach to people he would normally never get the chance to. We may never go to prison, but we all have times of difficulty that provide an opportunity to allow our faith to keep us standing firm. The way we react to difficult situations will refiect what we truly believe. Heart Check.

What does your faith display in times of difficulty? Do you see the good in it? Are you able to ﬁnd the opportunity to glorify God and strengthen the faith of others?

Paul was so incredibly selfiess and secure in his calling that even when others were competing against him, he wasn’t affected by it. While he did care about and rebuke false teaching, he wasn’t so concerned when people had ulterior motives as long as they were preaching the true gospel.

I think this is an excellent reminder for us to be careful of being too critical of preachers or pastors just because we don’t like their style or we believe their heart isn’t sincere (unless they are teaching a false gospel, of course). Heart Check.

Are you more concerned with the gospel being preached or someone’s motives? Are you ever critical of pastors or ministers based on your own bias?

Paul is emphasizing unity, humility, and relationships. If everyone in society counted everyone as better than themselves, then no one would be looked down upon and everyone would be looked up to instead. Image how encouraging that would be!

And if we all looked to the interest of others instead of just ourselves, everyone’s needs would be met. One of the best ways to combat selfishness is to serve others so you don’t have time to self-serve. Heart Check.

Because the Light of the World dwells in us, we should be lights that are shining. We should be the ones that people look to in times of darkness. We should be the ones who make light of a situation, finding the good and exposing the evil so that it can be corrected.

We should be the ones guiding others to Christ. We should be the ones who bring safety, comfort, and peace, rather than spirits of negativing and complaining. Heart Check.

How brightly does your light shine? Do you reflect the heart and nature of Christ?

Paul had it all—friends, religious prestige, he came from a distinguished tribe—yet here he says that he counts it all as rubbish, meaning it is worthless compared to the freedom he has found in knowing Christ. In a sense, he is saying that he would give it all up again if it meant they would hinder him from fulfilling his calling. Heart Check.

Would you be willing to give up this life for the sake of the call? What would you be willing to sacrifce?

Paul knew that a race could never be won if you’re running backwards into the past. The enemy wants nothing more than to keep you shackled to what once was, whether good or bad. So Paul said, “Forget about it. Keep moving forward.” When he says that he forgets, it doesn’t mean he wiped it from his memory, but he wiped it of its infiuence over him. Heart Check.

Is there something in your past that you need to let go of and press on toward what is ahead?

Isn’t it amazing that a man who is in prison is schooling people on how to be content and have joy. And notice that he says he had to learn to be content, which means that contentment isn’t natural.In fact, we are naturally discontent. The moment we come out of the womb, we innately realize it’s way too cold, we’re suddenly hungry, the lights are bright, it’s way too loud.

And even though babies can’t verbalize those things, they will still let you now through their audible cries. But Paul says that as you mature, you will learn contentment. As you trust in the Lord to meet your needs, you will feel like you have plenty even when you don’t have much. You won’t need things to satisfy your soul. Heart check.

Do your outward circumstances dictate your inward attitude? Or have you learned to be content and source joy from the Lord?

How did Paul’s eternal mindset change his outlook on life and the way he lived?

How does working out your salvation differ from working to earn salvation? How does it support it?

What does it mean to have citizenship in heaven while living on earth? How do we promote heavenly interests?

Set spiritual goals and identify one that you can press toward for the ultimate prize.

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for the privilege of being your servant, in partnership with you to advance the gospel.

We praise you for the work you are doing in and through us, and we trust that whatever you have started, you will be faithful to complete it. I pray for those who may be feeling discouraged today, that you will remind them of this promise and show them what they can do to continue doing what you’ve asked of them. Don’t let the end goal become greater than the daily accomplishments.

Please grow our love so that we can abound more and more in knowledge and understanding. Increase our discernment so that we can be pure and blameless before you. Fill us with the fruit of righteousness that comes only from your Holy Spirit so that you can get the glory in all things.

Help us to see that no matter what we are going through, no matter what kind of season we are in, you are with us. And wherever you have us, we can rejoice as we find every opportunity to share the gospel. The devil may try to intimidate us or make us fearful, but we rebuke that, for we have not been given a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, love, and sound mind. We will continue to trust that you are working all things for our good, so while we are still living and breathing, may our words and conduct refiect that goodness.

I pray that we will continue to strive with our brothers and sisters in unity. If there is a critical spirit within us, let us evaluate the why and grant us the grace to be able to deal with it. Let us not be so concerned about what others are doing, especially if they are faithfully serving to share your truth.

Thank you, Jesus, for showing us what it means to be humble. You showed us in the way that you emptied yourself of all power and took on the role of a servant. I pray that we will be selfiess in this way and also in the way that we regard others as better than ourselves. Help us to focus on how to meet needs and serve others so that we won’t even have to self-serve.

As we work out our own salvation, help us to continue to trust that you are shaping us into the person you desire us to be. I pray that we will shine brightly in this dark world, showing through our conduct who you are. Keep us from grumbling, making excuses, or arguing, and instead, fill us with a spirit of gratitude and peace. As we hold firmly to your Word, I pray that we will run the race you have set before us without wavering. Let the truth of knowing that every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus is Lord, guide us and fill us with hope as we await your glorious return.

I pray that we will focus our eyes on heaven, recognizing that we are only passing through in this temporary life. Until we go home, I pray that we will promote heavenly interests. Help us to see the worth in knowing you and how it far surpasses anything we could ever gain on this earth. Remove any distractions or selfish tendencies that might keep us from depending on you. We realize that righteousness will never come from anything we do, but only through the faith that we have in you. Shape our priorities so that they align with your will and give us the courage to stand firm in our faith until we are transformed into the likeness of your glory.

If anyone is struggling with any anxiety or worry today, please release them from that burden. Teach them how to bring it before you in prayer and supplication with thanksgiving in their hearts for the peace that you are bestowing upon them. Help us to focus on whatever is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable, and may we be a people who praise those who are blessed and do things with excellence. Guard our hearts and minds with your peace that surpasses all understanding.

I pray that for the rest of our days, we will focus on the joy and hope of you knowing you. May we be that example of joy that radiates from within. We look forward to the ultimate victory that we have in you, knowing that you will finish what you have started in us. We will rejoice in the Lord always and forever.

1 Timothy 1, Paul opens his letter to Timothy, offering guidance and encouragement as a mentor to his spiritual son. He warns Timothy about the dangers of false teachings in the Ephesian church, emphasizing the need for sound doctrine grounded in love, a pure heart, a good conscience, and sincere faith.

Paul provides Timothy with a list of behaviors and traits that disqualify someone from leadership, cautioning against appointing anyone whose actions could harm the ministry. Paul refiects on God’s mercy in his own life, marveling at how Christ’s grace transformed him, the "chief of sinners," into a faithful servant and an example of God's patience.

1 Timothy 2,Paul stresses the importance of prayer and intercession, calling on believers to pray for all people, including those in authority, so that they may live peaceful and godly lives. He emphasizes that God desires everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth, with Christ as the one mediator between God and humanity.

Paul also addresses the conduct and posture of men and women in prayer and worship, urging men to pray without anger or quarreling and women to present themselves with modesty and self-control during services.

1 Timothy 3, Paul provides Timothy with specific qualifications for those seeking leadership roles in the church, such as overseers and deacons. He highlights traits like being above reproach, self-controlled, hospitable, able to teach, and faithful in their family life. These traits ensure that leaders represent Christ well and care for the church with integrity. Paul underscores the importance of church leaders modeling godliness, as they are stewards of God's household.

He ends the chapter by mentioning the "mystery of godliness," pointing to Christ's incarnation, resurrection, and glorification as the foundation of the faith.

1 Timothy 4, Paul encourages Timothy to remain steadfast in his calling, even as some will fall away from the faith and follow deceptive teachings.

He warns of false doctrines and legalistic rules that distract believers from the truth of the Gospel. Paul exhorts Timothy to train himself in godliness, comparing spiritual discipline to physical training, which has temporary value., He urges Timothy to be an example to the believers in speech, conduct, love, faith, and purity, while also nurturing the gift God gave him through the laying on of hands.

1 Timothy 5, Paul provides Timothy with practical advice for leading the church with respect and love for all members. He instructs Timothy on how to approach different groups within the church, such as treating older men as fathers, younger men as brothers, older women as mothers, and younger women as sisters.

Paul offers detailed guidance on how to care for widows, ensuring they are supported while encouraging younger widows to remarry and focus on their families. He also outlines how elders should be honored and corrected, emphasizing accountability within church leadership.

1 Timothy 6,Paul concludes his letter with final instructions, summarizing key principles for Timothy’s ministry. He advises on godly relationships between servants and masters, emphasizing mutual respect and Christlike behavior., Paul warns against false teachers who promote greed and divisive doctrines, encouraging Timothy to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.

Paul reminds Timothy to remain content with what God provides, contrasting the love of money with true spiritual riches.,In a powerful charge, Paul exhorts Timothy to fight the good fight of faith and take hold of the eternal life to which he has been called, keeping his focus on Christ until the very end.

In 1 Cor. 15:9, Paul said, “I am the least of the apostles.” In the middle of his ministry in Eph. 3:8, he said, “I am less than the least of these.” Now, here, toward the end of his ministry, he says, “I am the worst.”

The closer he got to the Lord, the further he realized he was from God’s holiness, and the more he knew he needed His grace. He understood that his “B.C.” days didn’t disqualify him from ministry because Jesus’ grace and mercy trumped the worst of his sins, bringing even greater glory to His name and opening the door wider for others to enter in.

He felt it was a privilege to be used as the example for His perfect patience. People would look at him and say, “If God can save him, surely He can save me.” On the other hand, the world sits us in a corner and puts a dunce cap on us, making us feel ashamed, unworthy, and unredeemable.

Sadly, sometimes Christians will put us in this corner as well, but we have to remember that people are not God, and they don’t have a say in your redemption. Heart Check.

What kind of cap are you wearing? A dunce cap? Or a crown of righteousness? Are you allowing your former life to disqualify you from serving?

In this chapter, Paul will speak on living a quiet and peaceable life, but he emphasizes prayer. There are so many voices out there today, with everyone trying to shout over the other, and all it does is create more division and more dissension. If we are going to be loud in anything, it should be in prayer. Instead of complaining about our political leaders, we should be praying for them. Instead of talking about those who have hurt us, we should pray for them. Talk less, pray more, and watch God begin to move and usher in peace. Heart Check.

Even if we never strive to be in ministry leadership, we should still aim to live with this kind of character because it is consistent with what is good and right in God’s Word.

Here, Paul says that we should be well thought of by outsiders, meaning we should have a good reputation and good role models in our spheres of infiuence. This doesn’t mean we are people-pleasers but rather example-setters. How we live should help further the gospel message, not hinder it. Heart Check.

How do “outsiders” view you? Do you have a good reputation? Are you helping or hindering the furthering of the gospel?

Timothy was likely between 35 and 40, as youth was to be considered anyone under 40. Paul tells him to set an example for others in the way that he talks, walks, thinks, believes, trusts, loves, in his attitude, in his purity, and in his faith. Imagine what the world would be like if everyone followed the leader in these things. Heart Check.

If everyone followed the way you think, speak, walk, believe, trust, and love, what would the world look like?

This doesn’t mean that the laying on of hands is required for gifts to be administered—this was likely referring to Timothy’s ordination. The more significant point here is that we are not to neglect or waste the gifts that we’ve been given. We’ve all been gifted in some way if not many ways.

One of the best ways to identify your gifting is to identify your strengths. Many of us spend time trying to strengthen our weaknesses and do things rather than honing our craft. But we will be accountable for what we did with the things God gave to us. Heart Check.

What has God gifted you with? Are you pursuing it with tenacity or neglecting it?

This section about money is a difficult one to get through, because we live in a consumer culture. We don’t even have to get out of our beds to shop anymore, and most of the time, it’s at your doorstep within days. We also live in a society that constantly preaches success and wealth as being the greatest gain in life.

But Paul says otherwise. He is basically alluding to the good ol’ saying, “Mo’ money, mo’ problems,” and therefore, we just need to be content and grateful for what we do have, because when we are motivated by wealth and gain, that is one of the roots to evil. Heart Check.

How motivated are you by money? Are you content with what you have? Or are you constantly longing for more?

What are some modern “myths,” false teachings, or distractions in the church today?

What is the proper usage of the Law in the Christian life? How might it be misused?

How do the qualifications for leaders refiect the character of Christ? How might this affect the church’s witness?

What is the church’s role in caring for its members today? How can it balance that obligation with financial responsibility?

What key words does Paul use to encourage an active faith rather than a passive one? How does this change your perspective about Christian living?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for your grace, mercy, and peace that comes only from you.

We give you all the praise, our King of Ages, immortal, invisible, and one and only God. Thank you, that even when we can’t fully comprehend your greatness and magnitude, you still pour out so much goodness into our lives to where your power becomes undeniable.

We are so grateful for the mercy that you give to us, acknowledging that we were once so far from you, yet you still showed us so much patience and compassion. We are so grateful to you, Jesus, for coming into the world to save sinners. You didn’t come to save the perfect or the righteous, but through your salvation, we now have the opportunity to be transformed, perfected, and made righteous. I pray that we never take this for granted.

Please guard our hearts and minds against any false teachings or distractions that may be trying to infiltrate the church. This can come in so many forms or fashions, and they will not come with a grand announcement and may even be disguised as something good. Increase our discernment so we will know and may we always be led by the truth of your Word. Help us to hold fast to sound doctrine, never overcomplicating it. Your gospel is simple yet so deep, and sometimes in the name of wanting to grow in our knowledge, we completely forget about the core of your message. So let us not lose sight of that. May we live our lives with a pure heart and good conscience, always refiecting your love to all people.

As we fight the good fight of faith, strengthen us and help us to hold firmly to the hope that we have in you. Surround us with faithful mentors like Paul. Give us eyes to see those that you have placed into our lives to mentor us, and may we look for those that we can also pour into.

If anyone is struggling in their faith today, we lift them up to you. We know that you desire all to be saved and to come to the knowledge of truth, so we pray for our enemies or those who have hurt us as well. Please restore their hearts and minds. Help them to recognize their sin, not for the purpose of condemning them or making them feel ashamed in any way, but so they can also see their need for a savior. Let them know how deeply loved they are and that they are forgiven. I pray that they will open themselves up to receive the free gift of grace that is available to all. Bring them home, Jesus. And when they return, let us be the ones welcoming them back like the father of the prodigal son.

If we are going to be loud in anything, Lord, let it be in our prayers. We especially pray for our pastors, leaders in government, our employers, or anyone else in positions of leadership. May their decision making be led by the truth of your Word, even if they are not aware of what that is. We pray that your Spirit will infiltrate every corner of their workspaces. Surround them with believers who can shine your love and light into the dark corners of the room.

I pray for those who are doing work in the ministry field. Help them to continue to focus on their inward beauty and on doing good works. Protect them from the temptation to sin and let them lead with integrity. Give us all that courage to lead in love and humility, prioritizing peace and reconciliation over confiict. Humble our hearts to submit to your Word and your design for our lives. Help us to learn with quiet spirits and a readiness to be transformed by your truth. I pray that we will refiect unity and order so that we can be a testimony to the world.

Help us all to live our lives above reproach and with integrity, self-control, faithfulness, humility, wisdom, and reliance on your Holy Spirit. May our homes be a place of order and peace as we balance our responsibilities as ordained by you. Please give us discernment and patience as we continue to spiritually mature. Protect us against pride or conceit and may we not be deceived by the enemy.

Thank you for the giftings that you’ve given to us. I pray that you will help us to train ourselves in godly disciplines and not waste the gifts that you have given to us. Help us to prioritize our time, energy, and resources so that we can be an example of what heavenly order looks like and ultimately bring you glory.

Help us to treat everyone with love and respect, looking for needs that can be met, and honoring them if able. We lift up those who are vulnerable in our community and ask that you will provide for them and protect them. Give us hearts of generosity, and may we stay focused on heaven, as we pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, and gentleness. Until the day that you bring us home, let us fight the good fight of faith, surrendering every aspect of our lives to you.

Titus 1, Paul writes to Titus, offering guidance on establishing church leadership in Crete, a region known for its moral challenges and divisive culture. He provides Titus with a clear list of qualifications for elders, emphasizing traits like being above reproach,self-controlled, hospitable, and holding firmly to sound doctrine. Paul highlights the importance of appointing leaders who can teach truth and refute false teachings, as Crete was rife with deceptive teachers leading people astray. This chapter underscores the need for strong, godly leadership to protect and nurture the church.

Titus 2,Paul instructs Titus on teaching sound doctrine to promote godly character in all church members. He outlines specific guidance for different groups:

● Older men: To be temperate, dignified, and sound in faith, love, and endurance.

● Younger men: To practice self-control and be examples of integrity and good works.

Paul emphasizes that Titus himself should model these qualities, showing that godly behavior adorns the doctrine of God and makes it attractive to others.

Titus 3, Paul concludes his letter by urging Titus to encourage the church to be ready for every good work, showing kindness and humility to all people. He reminds believers of God’s mercy and grace, highlighting that salvation is not earned by works but given through the regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit. Paul exhorts the church to avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, and arguments about the law, as these are unprofitable and divisive.

He sends final greetings and instructions to Titus, asking him to assist fellow believers in their ministry while continuing to strengthen the church.

Paul begins Titus by addressing the importance of church leadership. He instructs Titus to appoint elders in Crete who meet specific qualifications: above reproach, faithful in marriage, self-controlled, and able to encourage others with sound doctrine.

These leaders must also stand firm against false teachers who deceive and promote Jewish myths or legalism. Paul emphasizes that these individuals are not just filling a position but stewarding God’s household, which requires humility and integrity.

Are you striving to live above reproach in your personal life? How can you encourage others with sound doctrine while protecting the truth of the gospel?

Paul focuses on sound doctrine that transforms lives, outlining the responsibilities of older men, older women, younger women, and younger men. He highlights the need for godly living as a testimony to Christ. Specifically, he calls for lives that “adorn the doctrine of God,” meaning that our character and behavior should make the gospel attractive.

Paul reminds Titus that this transformation comes through grace, which not only saves but trains believers to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives.

Does your life reflect the transforming grace of God? In what ways can you be an example to those around you, especially younger believers?

Paul transitions to discussing how believers should interact with the world and one another.He calls for submission to authorities, avoiding divisive behavior, and living peaceably. He reminds the church that salvation is not by works but through God’s mercy and the renewal of the Holy Spirit.

However, good works are evidence of faith and a testimony to the gospel. Paul warns against divisive people, emphasizing the need to protect unity in the church and prune relationships that hinder growth.

Are your interactions with others marked by peace and humility? How do your actions reflect the renewal of the Holy Spirit in your life?

How does the role of an elder or overseer in Titus 1 compare to leadership roles in your church today?

What does it mean to “adorn the doctrine of God” in Titus 2, and how can you apply this in your daily life?

What steps can you take to promote unity and avoid division in your church community, based on Titus 3?

How does the idea of pruning divisive relationships challenge you to protect the unity of your faith community?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, We come before You with hearts of gratitude for the wisdom and truth You’ve given us through Your Word.

As we reflect on the book of Titus, we’re reminded of Your heart for the church—a heart that calls for unity, integrity, and love. Thank You for the clarity You provide about leadership, discipleship, and the good works You desire from us as living testimonies of Your grace.

Lord, we acknowledge the weight of the roles You’ve placed on each of us, whether as elders, teachers, encouragers, or disciples. Help us to see these roles not as burdens, but as blessings—opportunities to serve You and refiect Your glory to others.

Strengthen us to be leaders who are above reproach, faithful in all things, and stewards of Your truth. For those of us still learning, give us hearts eager to grow and ears open to correction. Teach us to embrace discipleship with humility and a willingness to be poured into, so that one day we might pour into others.

Father, help us to adorn the gospel in our daily lives. Let the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—be the adornment we wear as we interact with others.

May our lives reflect Your transforming power, drawing others to You. We know this doesn’t come from our own strength, but from the grace that saves and trains us. Teach us, Lord, to renounce ungodliness, avoid foolish disputes, and pursue righteousness with all our hearts.

We pray for unity in Your church, Lord. So often, division and discord threaten to tear us apart. Help us to be peacemakers who seek reconciliation and understanding. Give us courage to rebuke falsehood when necessary, but always with love and a desire to restore. Show us how to protect the unity of the body while pruning relationships that hinder growth. Remind us that this pruning, though painful, is for the health of Your church and the advancement of Your kingdom.

Lord, submission is a challenging concept for many of us. Teach us what it truly means to yield willingly—not out of fear or compulsion, but out of love and obedience to You. Help us to live as examples of Christ’s humility, showing respect and grace to those You’ve placed in authority. At the same time, give us discernment to stand firm in Your truth when human authority confiicts with Your Word.

We pray for Your guidance as we interact with the world around us. In a culture filled with distractions, temptations, and false teachings, help us to remain steadfast in our faith. Let our good works not be for our glory, but for Yours, so that others may see them and be drawn to You. Remind us daily that we are justified not by our works, but by Your mercy and the renewal of the Holy Spirit.

Lord, we ask for boldness to live out the gospel in practical ways. Help us to teach sound doctrine, encourage the fainthearted, and admonish those who are wayward. May we be the hands and feet of Christ in our communities, bringing hope, healing, and truth to a world that desperately needs it. Whether we are leading a congregation, mentoring a younger believer, or simply living out our faith in quiet obedience, may we always seek to glorify You.

Finally, Father, we pray for a deeper understanding of our roles within Your kingdom. Each of us has been uniquely called and equipped for a purpose. Show us how to use our gifts for Your glory and the building up of the church. Keep us from becoming weary in doing good, and remind us that our labor is not in vain.

Thank You for the example of Titus and the wisdom of Paul. May we learn from their faithfulness and apply these truths to our own lives. We surrender our hearts, our minds, and our efforts to You, trusting that You will lead us and sustain us in every good work.

1 Peter 1, Peter writes to believers scattered throughout the regions of Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia, referring to them as sojourners in a world that is not their home. He praises God for the living hope they have through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the joy of being born again into a new life with an imperishable inheritance. Peter comforts them by reminding them that their suffering is not meaningless but is refining their faith, just as Jesus’ suffering brought about salvation. He calls them to live lives of holiness and obedience, refiecting their new identity in Christ.

1 Peter 2, Peter describes believers as a spiritual house being built by God, with Jesus as the cornerstone. They are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, called to declare God’s praises. He urges them to abstain from sinful desires and live honorably, glorifying God by their conduct. Peter encourages submission to governing authorities, recognizing their roles as ordained by God for order and justice.

1 Peter 3, Peter addresses the relationship between husbands and wives, calling for mutual respect and submission in obedience to the Lord. He speaks about the blessings that come from suffering for righteousness, encouraging believers to remain steadfast and not repay evil for evil. Peter reminds them that Christ also suffered, bringing us to God, and uses Noah’s story to illustrate God’s patience and salvation through faith.

1 Peter 4, Peter calls believers to leave their former sinful ways behind and become good stewards of God’s grace. He exhorts them to live with self-control, prayerfulness, and love, using their gifts to serve one another. Peter prepares them for suffering, reminding them that suffering for Christ’s name is a cause for joy because it aligns them with His mission and glory.

1 Peter 5, Peter addresses the elders, urging them to shepherd the fiock willingly and to be examples of humility and godliness. He calls all believers to clothe themselves in humility and cast their anxieties on the Lord, who cares for them. Peter concludes with encouragement to remain vigilant against the enemy and trust in God’s grace to restore and strengthen them after they have suffered.

After showing us the will to our inheritance and all the wonderful things we will get, Peter says, “But hang tight, because, for a little while, you have to go through some heated stuff, but I promise, it’s for your good.” I kind of see it like those automatic car washes, where you have to put your car in neutral and let go of the steering wheel. At the end of the 2-minute cycle, your car comes out squeaky clean.

But it had to get waterboarded, soap in its eyes, whipped with rotating brushes. That’s just like life. But if our faith that we claim we have is genuine, we will come out stronger more purified on the other side. But if we come out feeling beat down and weaker, it might be because we were trying to push our car through the car wash instead of staying inside where there’s shelter. I

t will prove whether Jesus has taken your wheel or if you are trying to steer yourself. It will show if faith was your fuel or if you were trying to push your car over the finish line. Heart Check.

How do you come out of the fre? Purifed and stronger? Or weaker and beaten down?

Peter is really drilling in holiness, and here, he says that while we are living as foreigners on this earth, we still need to be respectful. When he says to conduct ourselves with fear, this means that we have a reverence, a healthy respect for, and awe for God, treating Him as the holy God that He is and not casually. As foreigners, we don’t want to get too attached to this land unless we plan on forsaking our citizenship in heaven. Heart Check.

When Solomon’s temple was being built, the stones were cut and chiseled far from the temple so the sound of construction would not invade the holy space of the temple. As living stones, our quarry is this life. We are being chipped at and chiseled constantly, sometimes even being rubbed the wrong way, but for the purpose of smoothing us out to fit together. It is for the purpose of shaping us for eternity, but while we are here, we have an obligation to be holy and offer spiritual sacrifices as part of our purpose. This is how the church is unified. Heart Check.

How are you actively participating as a living stone in the community of faith and contributing to its growth and unity?

We know by now that the cornerstone was the most important stone in any building, as it was the most important stone in holding the foundation of the building together. All other stones relied on it, so it had to be trustworthy. With Christ as our cornerstone… Heart Check.

Is He the most important thing in your life? Is He your foundation? Does He inﬂuence your priorities, identity, and decisions?

Some people get turned off at the teachings about marriage in the Bible, because the enemy has twisted what a Godly marriage looks like, even to the point of making Christians believe the lie. He does this because he knows that if he can get people to spend their time fighting and resisting one another, then he can keep them from being a powerhouse of a couple that can do great things when they are united.

He knows that if he can ruin the families, he can ruin the societies. In Peter’s teaching to the wives, the focus is on the inner character. When he speaks about not letting your adorning be external, he isn’t saying to be a slob and not take care of yourself, but rather don’t let the external be the priority over developing your inner character.

Don’t spend more time at the gym than you do in God’s Word. Don’t focus on making yourself so pretty on the outside while neglecting the way you treat others. Have a gentle and quiet spirit rather than being demanding, negative, and naggy. This is what is precious to the Lord. It doesn’t mean He loves us any more or less, but it affects His affection. Who doesn’t want to precious to Him? Heart Check.

What’s your priority? Are you more focused on your outward appearance than your inner character? Are you precious in His sight?

This implies that all believers are gifted for the purpose of serving. Heart Check.

To entrust means to fully commit to trusting the Lord and His sovereignty, knowing that nothing happens without His approval. We may not always understand the why, but this is where faith and trust come in. And ultimately, trust will be the thing that helps you to overcome fear, knowing that He is protecting you. Trust will loosen your grip on trying to control everything, knowing that He is ultimately in control. Trust will help you overcome anxiety and worry. And trust will overcome hatred and bitterness when you are able to forgive just as Christ forgave you, even when you didn’t deserve it. Heart Check.

Those who are faithful will be rewarded and blessed, either in this life or the next. Either way, any crowns of glory we receive are not for the sake of us wearing a crown and parading around for others to see. It is for the sake of casting the crown at His feet and bringing Him glory instead. I truly believe that He loves to bless those who will bless Him back with a heart of gratitude and adoration. Even if we aren’t given a crown in this life, if we are faithful, there is a crown that awaits you at the gate. What will you do with it? Heart Check.

What do you do with the crowns of glory that you receive? Do your blessings glorify God?

If anyone understood the grace of God, it was Peter. He is the only person who ever rebuked Jesus to His face, he denied him three times, he had a foul mouth, and he was lopping off ears. But once he finally “got it” and grabbed hold of that grace, the Lord was able to restore and confirm his ministry and firmly plant him down so that he could go on and do great things. It took me a long time to finally get it, and like Peter, I am now established and walking in His will for my life, and there is no greater joy on this side of heaven. Heart Check.

How does the understanding of being a pilgrim or sojourner affect your outlook on life on earth?

What does being a part of a chosen race, royal priesthood, holy nation, and God’s possession mean to you personally? How does it impact your sense of purpose?

How do the virtues listed in 3:8 serve as a countercultural witness in a divided and hostile society?

How does Christ’s ultimate authority and victory give assurance and encouragement when facing trials and persecution?

How does enduring suffering for righteousness lead to a breaking away from sinful behaviors?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for the living hope that we have because of what you have done, Jesus.

We are so grateful for the inheritance that awaits us , one that stands the test of time, and remains untainted unlike the things of this world. We are especially grateful in such an uncertain time as today, never knowing what tomorrow holds, that we have a blessed assurance that is being kept in heaven for all eternity.

But while we are sojourning through this life, help us to keep a heavenly perspective so that we do not lose sight of that hope. Help us to choose joy in times of trial, knowing that you are purifying us and refining our faith. Help us to let go if we are trying to hold too tightly to the steering wheel, and I pray that our faith will fuel us forward.

We love you so much, even though we have yet to see your face. Seeing your heart is more than enough to fill us with inexpressible joy. I pray that we will hold fast to our salvation so that we can stand firm on the darkest of days.

Thank you, Jesus, for paying for our freedom in the way that you presented yourself as the perfect spotless Lamb. I pray that we truly understand the gravity of it all so that we will hold you with the highest regard and desire to live in obedience and holiness because you are holy.

And may we love one another as the brothers and sisters that we are under the umbrella of your great name. Grow our roots in your Word that endures forever. May it continue to be our source of truth, guiding us through every twist and turn in life. Let it transform us from glory to glory.

Thank you for calling us out of darkness and into your light. Thank you for choosing us to be a part of your kingdom, crowning us with royalty, and setting us apart to proclaim your excellency. We will continue to hold firm to this identity that we have in you. Help us to be the living stones that you have formed to be perfectly fitted into the body of believers. I pray that we will stay anchored in your Word as we build our lives upon the rock as our firm foundation. May our spiritual sacrifices please you in the way we devote ourselves, worship, pray, and serve.

Whatever may be waging war against our souls, give us the strength to abstain from indulging in any dishonorable conduct. We submit ourselves completely to your will, so I pray that we will love one another deeply and show respect to all people. May we not waste the grace you have given to us but use our freedom to honor you.

Thank you, Lord, that we are healed by your wounds. You not only withstood the beatings but you endured the ultimate death blow so that we could be set free. I pray that we don’t take that freedom for granted but instead use it for good. Let us be set free from old or twisted ways of thinking.

Rewire our brains to align with your truth. Let it show in our relationships and our conduct so that our lives will be a witness to your grace and transformative power. Let us have a gentle and quiet spirit, refiecting your character and being rendered precious in your sight. Let us seek peace and pursue it so that we are able to keep the boat afioat and going in the same direction as other believers. Increase our sensitivity to others and may we respond appropriately.

In all things, let us fully entrust ourselves to you, our faithful Creator. We trust that you are in control and working all things for our good, even in times of trial and suffering. We may not understand it all on this side of eternity, but we will trust you regardless, because we believe that you are good. Let us refiect that in the way we live out all of these truths written here today.

Hebrews 1, The writer of Hebrews begins by establishing Jesus as supreme over all creation, emphasizing His role as the heir of all things and the one through whom the world was created.

Numerous Old Testament references underscore Jesus’ eternal existence, His divine nature, and His superiority to angels. Unlike angels, Jesus is addressed as the Son of God, seated at the right hand of the Father, and reigning forever.

Hebrews 2, The author underscores the reliability of prophecies delivered by angels and exhorts readers not to neglect the salvation offered through Christ. Jesus, though briefiy made lower than the angels in His humanity, is now crowned with glory and honor because of His suffering and death. By becoming fully human, Jesus defeated death, freeing humanity from its bondage, and became the perfect founder of salvation.

Hebrews 3, The writer compares Jesus to Moses, acknowledging Moses’ faithfulness as a servant but emphasizing Jesus’ superiority as the Son over God’s house.

A warning follows to avoid the same hardened hearts and rebellion that kept the Israelites from entering the promised land. Readers are urged to hold firmly to their confidence in Christ.

Hebrews 4, The concept of God’s rest is explored, showing that the ultimate rest remains available for believers who persevere in faith. Readers are encouraged to strive for this rest, trusting in the finished work of Christ. The Word of God is described as a sharp, discerning tool that exposes the intentions of the heart. Jesus is introduced as the great high priest who empathizes with human weakness, offering believers bold access to the throne of grace.

Hebrews 5, The role of Jesus as the eternal high priest is detailed, showing how He fulfills the role in a way no Levitical priest could. Appointed by God, Jesus is both fully human and fully divine, able to offer the ultimate sacrifice for sin. The author challenges readers to move beyond spiritual infancy, urging them to grow in their understanding and application of God’s Word.

Hebrews 6, The writer pleads with readers to mature in their faith, moving beyond foundational teachings and building a stronger spiritual life. A sobering warning is given about the danger of falling away, yet the chapter concludes with reassurance in God’s unchanging character and promises.

Abraham is held up as an example of steadfast faith, and Jesus is described as the anchor for the soul, securing believers in God’s eternal promises.

Hebrews 7, Jesus’ eternal priesthood is likened to Melchizedek, who foreshadowed Christ in the Old Testament. Unlike the Levitical priests, Jesus’ priesthood is eternal, perfect, and not based on lineage. Through His priesthood, the law and covenant are fulfilled and transformed. The superiority of Jesus’ priesthood guarantees a better hope and direct access to God.

Hebrews 8, The New Covenant, established through Jesus, is contrasted with the Old Covenant. The New Covenant, prophesied in Jeremiah, is written on hearts rather than tablets of stone and is based on grace rather than works. Jesus, as mediator, ensures forgiveness of sins and a restored relationship with God, making the old system obsolete.

Hebrews 9, The author explains how the Old Testament tabernacle and sacrifices pointed to Jesus’ ultimate work.

While the high priest entered the Most Holy Place annually with animal blood, Jesus entered the heavenly sanctuary once and for all with His own blood, securing eternal redemption. His sacrifice purifies not just outward actions but the conscience, enabling believers to serve God fully.

Hebrews 10, The once-for-all sacrifice of Jesus is the culmination of God’s redemptive plan, rendering the repeated sacrifices of the old system unnecessary. Believers are encouraged to draw near to God with full assurance of faith, holding fast to the hope they have in Christ.

The chapter warns against willful sin and apostasy while emphasizing the blessings of perseverance and the ultimate reward of eternal salvation.

Right out of the gate, Hebrews makes it clear: Jesus isn’t just another angel or messenger—He’s the Son of God, the one who created the universe and sits at the right hand of God. Angels worship Him! For the early Jewish believers, this was a big deal because angels were highly revered. But this chapter sets the record straight—Jesus is above them all. Heart Check:

Do you see Jesus as the ultimate authority in your life, or are there things you put above Him, even unintentionally?

Jesus became fully human to conquer death and bring us salvation. Think about that—He stepped down from heaven, faced suffering, and rose again, all for us. This chapter reminds us not to drift away from this truth because the stakes are eternal. Ignoring salvation isn’t just dangerous—it’s life-altering. Heart Check:

Are you staying anchored in your faith, or are you letting life’s distractions pull you away from the hope you have in Jesus?

Moses was a faithful servant, but Jesus is the Son who rules over God’s house. That’s a big difference! This chapter challenges us not to fall into the same patterns of disbelief and rebellion as the Israelites, who missed out on the promised land. Instead, we’re called to soften our hearts and stay open to God’s voice. Heart Check:

Are you listening to God and trusting Him, or are you letting doubt or frustration harden your heart?

Rest isn’t just about taking a nap—it’s about trusting in God’s finished work. For the Israelites, rest meant reaching the promised land. For us, it’s about finding peace in what Jesus has done. Verses 12–13 remind us that God’s Word cuts straight to the heart, exposing what’s going on inside us. And because of Jesus, we can approach God’s throne of grace with confidence. Heart Check:

Are you relying on Jesus for rest, or are you still trying to earn peace on your own?

He is eternal. He is sinless. He is blameless and directly appointed by God. We got that. All right, we're gonna dive back into that in the next chapter. But this next section is eye-opening. It is encouraging us to grow up in our faith, to not continue to eat and drink spiritual milk like babes. All right, I've got a babe upstairs—he's two years old—and he still wants his spiritual milk, but it's time for him to get on mature food. And so, we've been training him to eat meat so he can get more protein in his diet and boost his iron. It is time for us as Christians to start chewing on the meat.

But as a reminder, spiritual maturity takes effort and intentionality. Just so you know, that's what 2025 is gonna look like here at Heart Dive. If you're following us, know that this verse-by-verse commentary we've been doing—giving y'all spiritual milk—will transition next year to the meat, to solid food.

Why? So we can grow in spiritual maturity and go on to be disciple makers. It is time to grow up in our faith. So, Heart Check:

Are you taking steps to grow in your faith, or are you staying in your comfort zone?

The chapter warns against falling away from the faith, urging believers to remain steadfast. It highlights Abraham’s patience and God’s unchanging promises as examples to follow. Jesus, our high priest, is the anchor for our souls, providing hope and security through His eternal priesthood. Heart Check:

What anchors your soul in times of trial—your own strength, or the hope found in Jesus?

Jesus is our forever high priest, which means we don’t need earthly priests to mediate between us and God. Unlike the old system with temporary priests, Jesus is eternal and sinless, always interceding for us. His priesthood changes everything, giving us direct access to God. Heart Check:

How does knowing Jesus is always interceding for you change the way you pray or live?

The New Covenant isn’t about rules and rituals—it’s about a relationship. Jesus bridges the gap between us and God, offering grace and writing His law on our hearts. The old covenant served its purpose, but now we live in the freedom and intimacy that Jesus provides. Heart Check:

Are you embracing the freedom and grace of the New Covenant, or are you still clinging to old habits and mindsets?

Jesus didn’t just cover sin temporarily like the old sacrifices—He removed it completely. By offering Himself once and for all, He opened the way for us to have direct access to God. No more barriers, no more rituals—just a relationship with Him. Heart Check:

Do you fully accept that Jesus’ sacriﬁce was enough for you? How does that truth change the way you live?

Jesus’ sacrifice wasn’t just a one-time event—it was the ultimate solution for sin. Because of Him, we have the confidence to approach God without fear. The hymn "Blessed Assurance" sums it up beautifully: “Blessed assurance, Jesus is mine!” This chapter reminds us to hold tightly to our hope and to keep encouraging each other in faith. Heart Check:

How does your life reﬂect the conﬁdence and hope you have in Jesus’ ﬁnished work?

How does Hebrews 1 redefine the Jewish understanding of angels in light of Jesus’ superiority?

What does it mean for Jesus to be the “founder of salvation” in Hebrews 2, and how does this shape your faith?

In Hebrews 3, why is Jesus’ authority over the house of God emphasized over Moses’ role? How does this apply to modern believers?

Reflect on the concept of rest in Hebrews 4. How does this rest compare to the Canaan promised land and eternal salvation?

What lessons can we learn from the warning in Hebrews 5 about moving from milk to solid food in our spiritual journey?

How does Jesus’ priesthood in the order of Melchizedek (Hebrews 5–6) affirm His role as mediator of the New Covenant?

Hebrews 10: What does “blessed assurance” look like in your daily life? How does it shape your view of salvation?

Why is it significant that Jesus’ sacrifice was “once for all”? How does this contrast with the repetitive nature of the old covenant sacrifices?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, THANK YOU GOD! For Your Son, Jesus Christ, our eternal high priest, and perfect sacrifce.

● Thank You for the assurance we have in Him—the anchor of our souls and the mediator of a New Covenant, written on our hearts by Your Spirit.

● Thank You, Jesus, for being our eternal High Priest, interceding for us and making a way to the Father.

● Thank You, Jesus, for being the Mediator of a better covenant, writing Your laws on our hearts and drawing us into intimate relationship with God.

● Thank You, Jesus, for offering Yourself as the perfect and final sacrifice, cleansing us from sin and granting us eternal redemption.

● Thank You, Jesus, for being the Son of God, radiating the Father’s glory and sustaining all things by Your powerful Word.

● Thank You, Jesus, for reigning as the eternal King of Kings, upholding righteousness and truth in Your everlasting kingdom.

● Thank You, Jesus, for being the anchor of our soul, securing our hope and guiding us into God’s presence.

● Thank You, Jesus, for building God’s house and making us a part of it as living stones in Your kingdom.

● Thank You, Jesus, for being the author and perfecter of our salvation, leading us to eternal life.

Lord, we marvel at the sufficiency of Jesus’ sacrifice. Through His blood, we are cleansed, forgiven, and made new. Help us to rest in the truth that no further offering is needed, for Jesus has accomplished it all. Let this blessed assurance fill us with peace and boldness as we draw near to You.

Teach us to trust in Jesus as our eternal high priest, interceding on our behalf and granting us direct access to Your presence. May we never take for granted the privilege of coming before Your throne of grace, where we find mercy and help in our time of need.

Father, we confess that we often struggle to let go of old patterns and rely solely on Your grace. Help us to live in the freedom of the New Covenant, where obedience fiows from love, not obligation. Transform our hearts so that we may refiect Your holiness and walk in faithfulness to Your Word. We pray for perseverance in our faith, especially in times of doubt and difficulty. Like Abraham, may we trust in Your unchanging promises and wait patiently for their fulfillment. Remind us that Your Word is living and active, cutting through our fears and renewing our minds.

Lord, may our lives be a testimony to the hope we have in Christ. Empower us to hold unswervingly to our faith, encouraging one another and shining Your light in a world that desperately needs Your truth. Let us live as ambassadors of the New Covenant, sharing the good news of Jesus with all we encounter.

Thank You for the assurance that Jesus is enough—our high priest, perfect sacrifice, and eternal Savior. As we meditate on these truths, fill us with a renewed sense of purpose and joy. Let our hearts beat in rhythm with Yours, and may our lives bring You glory.

Hebrews 11 highlights the remarkable faith of Israel's ancestors, demonstrating their unwavering trust in God's plan for salvation and redemption, even when the promises were yet to be fulfilled. The chapter provides a comprehensive list of men and women in Israel's history—Abel, Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and many others—who acted in obedience and faith, trusting in the unseen promises of God. Their faith serves as an enduring example for all believers to trust God's ultimate plan, even amidst uncertainty, and to live by faith rather than sight.

Hebrews 12 proclaims Jesus as the founder and perfecter of faith, connecting the faith of the ancestors in chapter 11 to the fulfillment found in Christ. Believers are urged to endure hardships and discipline, understanding them as God's loving correction designed to strengthen their faith and character. The chapter encourages readers not to grow weary but to persevere, running the race set before them with endurance while fixing their eyes on Jesus. The unshakable kingdom of God, which believers are receiving, is presented as the ultimate culmination of all things—a kingdom that cannot be shaken, standing in contrast to the temporary nature of earthly struggles.

Hebrews 13 concludes the letter with practical instructions for living a God-pleasing life. Key themes include:

● Love and Hospitality: Encouragement to love one another as brothers and sisters in Christ and to show hospitality, remembering those in need and those suffering.

● Contentment and Trust: A reminder to live free from the love of money, trusting in God's provision and promise to never leave or forsake His people.

● Obedience and Leadership: The importance of submitting to spiritual leaders who watch over the souls of the congregation with accountability before God.

The letter ends with a heartfelt benediction, offering peace, and a blessing for believers to be equipped for every good work through Jesus Christ. Final greetings from fellow believers serve as a reminder of the unity and encouragement shared within the body of Christ.

In this chapter, we saw weak faith, imperfect faith, obedient faith, sacrificial faith, selfiess faith, faith that moves, faith that believes in the impossible, and faith that is victorious over and under circumstances. We saw how, despite the many imperfections of these men and women, God put them in the Hall of Faith with a placard that displayed what they did right, which was to believe that God would bring through whatever they were facing. They left a legacy of faith. Heart Check.

How are you building a legacy of faith for those who come after you? Are there any areas that may need more faith in your life? How can you inspire faith in others?

This great cloud of witnesses that the author refers to maybe those in the Hall of Faith who have left us a legacy by which we can live and be encouraged. They’re like our cheerleaders. Of course, this leaves us with the debate on whether those in heaven can see what’s going on here on earth. Indeed, watching us on earth would cause great sorrow, of which we know there is none in heaven.

So we can see this as their legacy cheering us on or witnessing to us and encouraging us to persevere in times of difficulty. It could also be referring to anyone who inspires our faith journey. Heart Check.

Who inspires you in your faith? How does their Who inspires you in your faith? How does their life encourage you to persevere in challenging times?

If anyone has ever run a race, you know that the last thing you want is extra weight slowing you down.In this race of life, that weight or hindrances could be both good and bad. It’s anything that distracts you from your purpose or slows down your spiritual growth. It could be sin, bad habits, relationships, social media, entertainment, or distractions. And the author tells us to lay aside or throw off these things. Heart Check.

Is there any extra weight that is hindering your spiritual growth or progress that needs to be thrown off?

Secondly, I love that the author says, “Let us run,” meaning we’re in this together! He’s running alongside us, along with every other believer. This is so important because we need each other to be able to endure. Endurance requires commitment, it takes focus and effort, and there is training and practice that is needed to finish with excellence.

I am currently writing this during one of my son’s wrestling tournaments, so I can’t help but think about him. I constantly pray for his endurance during every match. But if he didn’t put in the effort to train 5 days a week, to cut weight, and to be at his best, I wouldn’t be confident in that prayer. Our training comes by way of devotion, worship, spending time in the Word and in prayer, and a commitment to finish this race well because lazy runners don’t win races. Heart Check.

When we reject God’s provision, protection, and salvation, we are rejecting His grace. When we don’t trust in those things, we inevitably will turn to other things the way the Israelites turned to idolatry because they were disappointed or felt as though God was not meeting their wants and needs.

This is when Moses warned against the root of bitterness and how it will bear bitter fruit such as anger, jealousy, division, and immorality. So we have to be careful that we do not allow unmet expectations, disappointment, or people who have hurt us or anything else that has put a bad taste in our mouths to be nursed into roots of bitterness. Heart Check.

Are you harboring anything that could potentially put down roots of bitterness? Is there bitter fruit in your life?

The holidays can be one of the most difficult times of year for some people. I know a lot of people have suffered grief or loss, others may feel lonely while so many are gathering together, some may be dealing with financial stress, confiict, or burnout, or there may be trauma that is associated with this time of year.

We know that one of the best ways to combat these things is to have a heart of gratitude, even in the smallest things. If we can’t think of anything, the author gives us a pass. They say to be grateful for the kingdom that cannot be shaken—it’s promised and insured, waiting for us to fully receive it. Heart Check.

The author closes out his letter with the practical application of love, specifically brotherly love. This kind of phileo love shows itself in the way that it cares for strangers and desires to make others comfortable, has empathy for those who are suffering or mistreated, holds marriage in high honor, respects, prays for, and supports leaders, and shares and does good works. Now that you know how to live out this kind of love… Heart Check.

How does faith shape the understanding of righteousness in the New Testament that’s different from the Old Testament?

Compare and contrast Mt. Sinai with Mt. Zion. How are they different and how does this refiect the Old vs. New covenant?

If we are called to remember those who suffer, does the church have a role to play in social injustice?

How do we reconcile honoring and respecting spiritual authority with God’s ultimate authority?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for reminding us about how vast faith truly is.

Thank you, that by faith, we can be confident in your promises, especially the promise for an eternal life beyond the one we are currently living. By faith, we have evidence of things we can’t see, and we can trust that you are always working, even when we can’t understand the why or how. We can trust that you are with us by way of your Holy Spirit. Thank you for this beautiful gift.

Help us to see this gift for what it is and to emulate the faith of those who have gone before us. I pray that we will give you our very best the way Abel did and walk closely with you like Enoch. I pray that we will be like Noah and hear your voice and obey it when the world is shouting other things at us. Give us faith like Abraham and Sarah, who walked through what seemed like impossible situations with a trust in your timing and your goodness. There were so many others who were dealt trials, persecution, and injustice, and their mustard seed sized faith carried them through.

Thank you that our faith does not need to be perfect. It just simply needs to be evident to you. Remind us that we may not see immediate results, if at all on this side of heaven, but like so many others, we will be rewarded if we stand firm in it. So while we are here, sojourning through this life, help us to live with an eternal perspective and hold tightly to the hope that you are God, and you are not ashamed to call us your own. We fully trust that the best is yet to come.

Thank you for surrounding us with such a great cloud of witnesses, whose faith testifies to your faithfulness and grace. I pray that we will learn from the legacy that they’ve left us and be inspired to be a witness to others. As we run this race that is before us, help us to do so with endurance. I pray that we will fully commit ourselves to training and finishing well. I pray that if there is anything that is weighing us down or hindering our growth, that you will give us the strength to cast it off and place it at your feet. We set our hope on you, Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Thank you for bearing my sin and shame as you endured the cross and everything that led up to it.

Help us to understand and trust in the discipline that we may be receiving. We know that it always comes from a place of love and always has a divine purpose. It may not feel so good, but it is for our good. We will be grateful, knowing that when we endure discipline, it is evidence that we are a child of God. So strengthen our hands and steady our shaky knees so we can walk the straight line, as we pursue holiness and peace.

Although we live in a shaky world, we can be confident in your unwavering love and the unshakeable kingdom that awaits our receipt. We have gotten a taste of your goodness, and we look forward to the day that we get to feast in it.

I pray that our lives will be marked by brotherly love for all people. Help us to show kindness to strangers and find ways to make them comfortable. You have shown boundless love to us, and this is the least we can do. Give us compassion for those who may feel marginalized or may be mistreated. Let us honor our marriages as the highest covenant on this earth. Guard our hearts and minds from anything that draws us away from your holiness, and help us to live simply so that we will not be covetous in our hearts.

Thank you for your unchanging nature. Because of it, we can have peace and confidence in a constantly changing world. Equip us with everything we need to do your will and let the way we live please you. As we follow you, Jesus, I pray that we will persevere, even if it means we face disgrace or rejection. We know it is temporary, and so we fix our eyes on our permanent, eternal, and unshakeable home that awaits us.

2 Timothy 1, Paul writes to Timothy with heartfelt encouragement and guidance, continuing to mentor him in faith. Paul urges Timothy to grow in the Spirit, faithfully uphold sound doctrine, and actively use the spiritual gift God has given him. He refiects on those who have abandoned him and expresses gratitude for one who has remained steadfast in faith.

2 Timothy 2, Paul challenges Timothy to serve Christ with the diligence and endurance of a soldier in God’s army. Timothy is encouraged to endure hardship, stay rooted in the truth, and avoid being swayed by worldly distractions. Paul reminds Timothy to live as one approved by God, set apart for Christ’s work, and unashamed of the gospel.

2 Timothy 3, Paul warns Timothy about the increasing depravity and selfishness that will mark humanity in the last days. He highlights the importance and divine purpose of Scripture, emphasizing its power to equip believers for every good work.

2 Timothy 4, Paul gives Timothy a solemn charge to preach the Word boldly, teaching truth in a world darkened by sin. Aware that his time on earth is nearing its end, Paul refiects on his faithful service to Christ and encourages Timothy to carry on the mission.

Timothy’s mother and grandmother played a huge role in Timothy’s faith. I can look back on my life and identify several people who impacted my faith before I was even a Christian. From as early back as my grandmother reading to my cousins and me Bible stories at her bedside, even when she was dying of cancer, to my aunty, who would drive us to church on Sundays.

Then there was my oldest sister, who bought me my first Bible at 12 years old, which sparked my love for God’s Word, and my other sister, who I had the honor of ministering with on stage as worship leaders. Along the way, I had so many mentors who poured into me. Heart Check.

Who has influenced your faith? Have you acknowledged them? Do they know what impact they have made on your life?

On this last RV trip, my daughter wanted to make smores, so I somehow got tasked to build the fire. To be honest, I have never built a fire before, so I got out and dumped some charcoal in the pit, tried to light it, and lo and behold, nothing happened. My husband came out and had a little chuckle before coming to our rescue and showing us how much care and attention is needed to build a campfire. He reorganized the pit with rocks, started tearing up paper plates and gathering leaves, and he said we needed to space out the charcoals a little. I had no idea!

At one point, he was blowing on the fire to stir up the fiame, (which I thought puts out the fire), but this is what Paul is talking about here. Our spiritual gifts are like a fiame that need to be constantly nurtured if we want to burn bright. The gifts will eventually burn out if we aren’t praying for that fuel from the Holy Spirit, putting them into action, and sometimes even dealing with a little bit of heat in the process.

But when you do rekindle the fiame and your fire is burning hot, you get to enjoy the goodness of the smores or the goodness of life that God has for you. Our fires may differ in size, depending on where we are in the process, but as I learned this weekend, each step of building the fiame is so necessary. We may be in the fire starting phase where we are just gathering the tools and looking for mentors, we may be in burnout phase, we may be in the phase where the starter fuel is burning but then it dies out so we have to keep adding more fuel to get the fiame to grow. Heart Check.

How is your flame doing? Does your ﬁre need to be rekindled? Are you fanning your ﬂame? Or are you in burnout phase? What can you do to reignite it?

Because of this type of encouragement, we assume that Timothy wasn’t as bold and courageous as Paul, and perhaps he was a little timid or fearful of walking in his God-given role or quickly nipping things in the bud the way Paul would. Timothy was on the younger side, so he may have had to work a little harder to get the respect of the elders, but he also may have been naturally fearful of martyrdom, which is what most apostles faced. Whatever it was, Paul knew he needed to encourage him in this time.

When we don’t do what God has called us to, there is usually fear at the root of it all. It could be fear of rejection, fear of failure, fear of confrontation, of which none are gifts from the Lord. He gives us the Holy Spirit, who empowers us to overcome fear and insecurity and to walk boldly. Some of us may have the boldness, but we are trying to do it on our own strength, which will leave us weary and tired in the end. But love drives out fear, and if we have the Spirit of God living in us, we have His love, His power, and the discipline that we need to do what He has asked. That self-control or sound mind is what will keep us thinking clearly, acting wisely, and remaining focused in this life. Heart Check.

Where are you being held back? Have you identiﬁed the fear that is at the root? Are you depending on your own strength or relying on the Spirit of God to empower you? What is one step of bold faith that you can take this week?

Here Paul is giving a charge to Timothy that is essential to his role as a shepherd. He is to share the Word with faithful men who can then go and teach others. He is calling Timothy to be a disciple maker.

We all have this same charge! This is why we are so passionate about teaching God’s Word, in its entirety, to whoever is willing to discipline themselves to hear it. We’ve all been entrusted with the truth at this point, and now we have a responsibility to do something with it. We all have a teaching role in this life. Heart Check.

Here Paul compares faithfulness and the Christian life to a soldier, athlete, and farmer. As we walk out our faith, we are like soldiers who are constantly fighting battles, so we must be battle ready with our armor on and not off doing our own thing. Effective service requires singleness of purpose—we are fighting this battle together, so we must stay focused and not fight our own people. We have to persevere in times of suffering or hurt so that we don’t quit and lose out on the victory.

He says we’re also like athletes, who have to train and stay disciplined. In other words, we have to stay in our own lane and within our boundaries or lane markers so we don’t get tripped up by trying to run according to our own rules. Then he says we must be hard-working and patient like a farmer. Because harvests take time. There are seasons for everything. Heart Check.

What season are you in? Are you ﬁghting a battle, training for a race, or patiently sowing seeds? Are you continuing to stay focused and disciplined as you patiently endure?

Paul has given us quite a sobering list of attitudes and behaviors that we see even among Christians, and when we see lists like this, it’s always good to do a little Heart Check.

Check your life against Paul’s list. Are there any behaviors mentioned here that you may be guilty of? Have you confessed?

Paul warns against those who will parade around as spiritual but underneath it all, their motives are impure.

They don’t make a grand entrance—they creep in, meaning they will be hard to detect at first. They may say all the right things, appear to be doing all the good works, but eventually, their behavior will give them away. Little by little, they will begin to be exposed and it will be clear that they are trying to be their own God as they draw attention to themselves rather than giving God the glory. Paul says they won’t get very far. This is why we are to live our lives the same in public as we do in secret. Heart Check.

If you were exposed to the public today, what would be revealed in your heart and mind?

Notice that it says that all scripture is breathed out by God, meaning every single word that is written in our Bibles was inspired by God. He is the ultimate author. And if we do not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God, then we have to make sure we are seeking to know every word and not just the familiar passages.

We can’t just pick out the ones that make us feel good and skip over the rest, because Paul says that it is meant to teach us, convict us, and correct us, meaning it isn’t always going to feel so good. But it’s training us in righteousness and holiness, not so that we have a bunch of head knowledge, but so that we will know God, and be capable and fully prepared for anything that comes our way.

But if we are being choosy and picky about which scripture we find useful, we become the judge of His Word rather than allowing it to be the judge of us. Heart Check.

Do you accept that all scripture is written by God and true? Have you developed the discipline to read regularly and to read the whole Bible? How has it changed your life?

Correction, rebuke, and warning never feel good, and this is why some people don’t like the Word of God or they will only study certain parts so that they can walk away feeling good. But again, that’s not the sole purpose of His Word. When we begin to feel the prick of the prune, when God starts chipping away at our hearts or correcting us, we will do one of two things. We will either listen and allow Him to change us, or we will reject it and walk away.

I’ve seen people leave our Bible study because they felt judged or condemned by the Heart Checks. It always breaks my heart, not because we’ve lost a follower or subscriber, but because I know they’re resisting the work of the Word, and I can only pray that the Holy Spirit will hold them close and that they don’t keep jumping ship every time there’s a little bit of conviction or correction. Heart Check.

Are you prioritizing comfort over sound doctrine? How do your respond when the Word challenges or convicts your heart?

It’s almost as if Paul is giving his “last meal” request, but in this case, the last thing he wants is the book and the parchments. In the Greek, this word is biblio, which indicates he may have wanted the gospel and Old Testament writings. It would be like us asking for our Bible. One of the questions I was asked at Miss America was, “If you were on a deserted island and you could have one thing with you, what would it be?” That was my answer. I would take my Bible, because it is the only survival manual I would truly need.

It would speak to me when I’m lonely. It would encourage me when I get weary. And it would help me to stay focused on the good and simple things rather than focusing on what I’ve lost or don’t have. There’s not a right answer to this Heart Check.

Here in his final letter, we end with the credits, just like any good movie. Paul did a lot for the kingdom, and even though he traveled for much of his ministry life, he developed genuine relationships with people. In today’s age of technology, we have improved communication, wider social circles, online support networks, yet our connections are more shallow, there’s an increase in miscommunication and misunderstanding because of the inability to hear a person’s heart, there’s privacy and trust issues, and a huge impact on mental health.

Depending on how we allow this to impact our own lives, it can be both good and bad. Heart Check.

Do you have genuine relationships like Paul? Who is your mentor, accountability partner, or encourager? Do you have a peer or coworker like Priscilla and Aquila, who loves, prays for and supports you? Do you have a Timothy, who you are helping and discipling?

What is the “good deposit” and what falls within its scope? How can we guard it?

What does it mean to live unashamed of the gospel, and how can we grow in boldness?

How does God’s faithfulness, even when we are faithless, impact the way you approach struggles in your faith journey?

What are some examples of irreverent babble that distracts from the truth? How does this hinder our ability to cultivate peace?

How do the behaviors of the last days refiect the brokenness of humanity? Is it reversible? How does it play out in scripture?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for the promise of life that we have to hold on to.

Because of this, we know our best days are ahead of us, but until then, we will need your grace, mercy, and peace that can come only from you. Thank you, Lord, for every person who has prayed for us or had an impact on our faith. I pray that you will bring to mind who these people are so we can show them gratitude. If they have passed on, let us honor their memory and have a heart of gratitude for the way they left a legacy that would have an eternal impact. I pray that we can do the same for others so that the lame of faith continues to burn brightly in future generations. Help us to be a people of prayer. When we’re bored, let us pray. When we are in the dumps like Paul was, let us pray. We know that in doing so, we will stay close to you and be joyful despite our grim surroundings. So may we have a sincere faith that doesn’t just believe in our heads but also in our hearts so that we can walk it out with boldness.

Help us to identify any fears that may be holding us back from walking in your will, and I pray that your Holy Spirit will overwhelm us with love so that fear will have to leave. It has no place in our spirits. Remove the shackles and let us walk out of our prison unashamed and fueled by your Spirit. We can’t do this on our own, God. We need you. You are able and we are not, so guard our hearts and minds and may we fan into fiame the gifts that you have given to us. Let us boldly use them to glorify you and serve others.

I pray that we will follow the pattern of the sound teaching that has been given to us. Let us not be swayed by entertainment or watered down gospels but increase our discernment to know when teachings are not sound. Help us to stick to the truth of your Word and let us guard this good deposit that has been entrusted to us. Thank you for this precious gift of the gospel. Without it, we would all be lost.

Guide us to be mentors and encouragers like Paul and faithful servants like Timothy. Equip us to be good friends who refresh and serve others. Strengthen us by your grace and lead us to those who will be faithful to hear you truth and teach it to others.

As we walk out our faith, let us be focused like soldiers and always at the ready for whatever battle we might face. You are our General, and you have enlisted us, so we desire to please you. Give us singleness of mind and singleness of purpose so we can be effective in our service to you. I pray that we will be disciplined in our daily living, aware of our lane markers so that we don’t try to do our own thing or run in someone else’s lane. And give us the patient endurance we need as we work hard and wait for the harvest.

Thank you that your Word is alive and active, and nothing can stop it from being preached throughout the earth. People might try, but your Word endures forever. Help us to keep our eyes and minds fixed on you, Jesus, and let us not be distracted by useless discussion or arguments. Help us to discern when someone is trying to cause discord or division and may we not get caught up in their irreverent babble. Instead, I pray that we will stop it in its tracks so that we do not ruin the hearers and lead to ungodliness.

May we be vessels of gold and silver, ready for your use. If our vessels are a little dirty on the inside, show us how we can cleanse ourselves so we can be of honorable use and set apart as holy. If there are any youthful passions that are eating at our souls, give us the strength to fiee. And may we be kind to all people, especially when we are trying to steer them back where they may have gone off course. May we all be teachable so that we don’t get caught in the snares of the devil.

We know that as your arrival draws nearer, that the world will be filled with even more selfishness, pride, and ungodliness. Protect our hearts from being infiuenced by these attitudes and give us discernment to recognize and avoid those who oppose your truth.

Thank you for every Word that you have breathed into our lives. Help us to hunger for your Word so that we can grow to understand it fully and to know you more. It is the foundation to everything we do, so have your way in teaching, correcting, and rebuking where necessary. Let us not waver but remain grounded in the gospel as we walk out the rest of our days.

Thank you for Paul’s life and allowing us to be witnesses to a faithful servant who has finished well. I pray that we can have even an ounce of his steadfastness. Give us boldness like his to preach your Word and compassion for others so we can love them through any season. May we also pour out our lives as an offering to you, as we fight the good fight and strive to finish the race well. We also pray for those who are running alongside us. Help us to encourage, uplift, and walk with them in love and unity. Let us leave a legacy of faith that points others to you.

2 Peter 1, Peter begins his letter by reminding believers of the promises and divine power granted through Christ. He outlines the qualities that should define a believer's life—faith, virtue, knowledge, self-control, steadfastness, godliness, brotherly affection, and love. Peter emphasizes the certainty and reliability of God’s prophetic word, which points to the ultimate hope in Christ.

2 Peter 2, Peter delivers a strong warning against false teachers and prophets, exposing their destructive infiuence. He describes their deceitful character and the judgment that awaits them, using Old Testament examples as evidence. Peter calls on believers to remain vigilant, discerning the truth of God’s Word amidst deception.

2 Peter 3, Peter writes about the coming Day of the Lord, contrasting the perspective of scoffers with the reality of God’s divine plan. He describes the final judgment and the transformation of the heavens and earth, urging believers to live holy and godly lives in anticipation of Christ’s return. Peter concludes with a heartfelt exhortation to grow in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

Jude 1, Jude, the brother of James, pens a powerful letter to warn believers about false teachers and encourage them to contend for the faith.

He recounts the rebellion of fallen angels and offers Old Testament examples to illustrate God’s judgment on the ungodly. Jude reminds readers of the apostles’ warnings about scoffers in the last days and calls them to remain steadfast in prayer and faith.

The letter ends with a beautiful doxology, praising Jesus Christ as the one who keeps believers from stumbling and presents them blameless before God.

In verses 3–11, Peter reminds us of an incredible truth: through God’s divine power, we have been invited to be partakers in His divine nature. That’s a big statement! It means that God is actively working in us to transform our hearts and lives.

Each of these qualities is part of what it means to refiect God’s nature in our lives. Heart Check.

Does my knowledge of Jesus Christ—the living, active, and working knowledge of Him—truly transform my heart and actions? Take some time to reﬂect on these qualities. Which ones are strong in your life, and which ones need more attention?

A real-world example of false teachers with hearts trained in greed can be seen in situations where spiritual leaders or infiuencers exploit their platforms for personal financial gain rather than genuinely serving God and their followers. Here’s how this might play out:

A self-proclaimed teacher begins to build a following through social media or a congregation. Their teachings may start off biblically sound, but over time, their focus shifts from spreading the Gospel to promoting their own brand, products, or lifestyle.

Instead of leading people to Christ, they begin enticing their audience with promises of material blessings, claiming that if you "sow a seed" (typically to their ministry), you’ll receive financial prosperity in return.

Hearts Trained in Greed: The teacher’s primary motivation becomes wealth and personal gain, not shepherding souls or glorifying God. They may fiaunt an extravagant lifestyle, justifying it as a "blessing from God," while pressuring followers to give more, often citing misused Scripture like "Give, and it will be given to you" (Luke 6:38).

Enticing Unsteady Souls: Those who are struggling financially or spiritually are particularly vulnerable. They might believe that giving money will solve their problems or earn them favor with God, becoming ensnared in the teacher’s manipulation. Instead of finding freedom and salvation in Christ, they become more burdened, often disillusioned when the promised blessings don’t materialize.

The teacher’s greed not only damages their own spiritual walk but also leads others astray, creating unsteady souls who are disconnected from the truth of the Gospel. People may lose faith in God, confusing the teacher's manipulation with God’s character.

This is why 2 Peter 2 warns believers to be discerning and vigilant, recognizing that false teachers are not just misleading—they are actively harming others for their own gain.

Let this example remind us to seek teachers who lead us to Jesus, not to their wallets.

1. Test Their Teachings Against Scripture: Does their message align with God’s Word, or does it prioritize wealth, power, or their own agenda?

2. Look at Their Fruit: Jesus said, "By their fruits, you will recognize them" (Matthew 7:16). Are they living out humility, generosity, and integrity, or are their actions marked by greed and self-promotion?

3. Guard Your Heart: False teachers prey on unsteady souls—strengthen your own foundation in Christ through regular study of Scripture and prayer.

Is SALVATION truly an irrevocable gift, or were we never genuinely converted? Sometimes, we find ourselves living superficial lives, where everything seems fine on the surface, but we need to evaluate our sincerity. If we neglect our faith or don’t act with intention, we can fall into a spiritual malaise. This could bring about a deliberate APOSTASY—a turning away from truths we once embraced. We must evaluate our hearts to ensure we’re not entangled in the sins of the world. This could lead us astray into darkness—a world of damnation. It's worth asking hearts…

Moving into chapter 3, let’s refiect on how we can stimulate ourselves towards wholesome pursuits. This chapter calls on us to absorb knowledge and actively apply it to our lives, fostering growth and understanding. I have a cold this holiday season, and it is hard to “stimulate” my mind to right thinking.

I liken the false teaching to the cold “fog” we get when our senses are dulled to the “junk” people are pouring into our heads and hearts. It sounds wonderful, but our eyes see a blurry refiection, and our clogged ears hear a nice humming. BUT once the fog clears aka judgment day - we will realize we have been deceived. So, just like when I have a cold, I need to rest, slowly take in vitamins and nutrients to strengthen my body, and eventually get moving - action! Heart Check.

How are you lifting the fog of false teaching in your life? Are we engaging in STUDY? How can we encourage one another in this endeavor?

Now, shifting gears to the book of Jude, we encounter the profound question: Are we CONTENDING or PRETENDING for the faith? It’s not just about knowing the TRUTH; it’s about living it out and passionately defending the GOSPEL against watered-down versions of the faith.

We must remember that SALVATION is through GRACE by FAITH, devoid of human works. While good works should naturally follow our faith, they should not become the central focus. Heart Check.

When defending our beliefs, we must ask ourselves—are we contending or simply pretending?

We should also circle back to the themes regarding false teachers and leaders. Can we spot a false teacher? Are we truly studying and engaged enough to discern their errors? This isn’t merely a theoretical exercise; it's about avoiding backsliding into sinful patterns that previously held us captive. Consider how figures like CAIN, BALAAM, and KORAH exemplify how pride led them into rebellion and idolatry, challenging our hearts and motivations.

Can you identify characteristics of false teachers within your context? What are the areas of your life where pride may lead you away from God’s authority?

Peter lists qualities such as goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, mutual affection, and love. Which of these virtues do you find most challenging to practice? Why?

How can you intentionally cultivate each of these qualities in your life? What specific steps can you take this week to nurture your spiritual growth?

How do the promises of God and the assurance of eternal life shape your perspective on life’s challenges and trials?

In what ways can you assess your spiritual condition? Are you currently in a place of abundance and fruitfulness, or is there a sense of stagnation?

How can you encourage others in your community to grow in their faith? What practical actions can you take to foster a supportive environment and contend for the faith? Do you need to take a stand in your community for the faith?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for the immeasurable gift of SALVATION that transforms our lives.

We acknowledge Your goodness and mercy, which sustains us each day. As we seek to contend earnestly for the faith, grant us the strength to live with integrity and holiness, refiecting Your love and truth in all that we do. Help us to resist the temptations of superficiality and APOSTASY. May our hearts remain steadfastly focused on Your TRUTH, and may we be instruments of Your grace, especially to those who have strayed from the path. We are reminded of our identity as Your beloved children and dear friends, embraced by Your infinite love.

As we refiect on Your Word, let us be patient with those who doubt and who have been led astray. Help us to extend compassion and understanding, demonstrating the love of Christ in every interaction. May we keep our love for You at the forefront of our lives, and build ourselves up in faith through prayer, scripture, and community.

We recognize that we are called to be set apart from societal values that do not align with Your will. Let Your love be the foundation of everything we do, and may we eagerly look forward to the glorious second coming of our Savior, for it is our hope. We hold fast to the promise that judgment does not await us, but rather, eternal salvation in Your presence. We trust in You, for You are the author and perfecter of our faith.

Now to Him who is able to keep us from stumbling and to present us blameless before the presence of His glory with great joy— to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority before all time, now and forever. Amen.

1 John 1, John opens his letter by proclaiming the Word of life, which he has seen and touched in Jesus Christ. He invites readers into fellowship with God and one another through the light of Christ. John emphasizes that walking in the light requires honesty about sin and reliance on the cleansing power of Jesus' blood.

1 John 2, John explains Jesus as the Advocate before God, who atones for the sins of the whole world. He reminds believers of the commandment to love one another and warns them not to conform to worldly desires. John also cautions about antichrists who deny Jesus, urging readers to remain steadfast in truth and practice righteousness.

1 John 3, John marvels at the love of God, who calls believers His children, and warns against the dangers of sin and lawlessness. He contrasts the children of God with the children of the devil, identifying love as the defining characteristic of God’s people. John expands on love in action, encouraging believers to love not only in words but in truth and deeds.

1 John 4, John instructs his readers to test every spirit to discern whether it is from God, as many false prophets have gone out into the world. He declares that God is love, and those who know God will refiect His love in their relationships. This chapter reinforces that perfect love casts out fear and is evidence of God abiding in us.

1 John 5, John assures believers that faith in Jesus Christ enables them to overcome the world. He testifies to Jesus as the Son of God, affirmed by the Spirit, the water, and the blood. John concludes with the comforting promise of eternal life in Jesus and the confidence that God hears and answers the prayers of His children.

John has just given us the key to joy, which can be found in its acronym. When we have J (fellowship with Jesus) and O (relationship with others), then there will be joy in Y (you). Remember, joy is different from happiness. Happiness is based on our happenings or circumstances and is tied to things like achievements, relationships,and possessions. Happiness is temporary or fieeting, whereas joy is sourced in God alone; it is everlasting, and it often doesn’t make sense. Joy is a choice.

We can choose joy when we don’t succeed at something, we can choose joy even when relationships are severed, and we can choose joy whether we have little or a lot. Heart Check.

Are there any areas in your life where you’re not experiencing joy? How can you invite Jesus into those areas?

If walking indicates a pattern of living or lifestyle, and walking in darkness means living in contrast to God’s moral nature, then walking in light signifies walking in step with His moral nature.

When we choose a lifestyle that is sinful or when we try to hide our sin, it will eventually manifest in our attitudes and the way we treat people. But when we walk in light, it will be natural for us to be in fellowship with other believers who are also in step with Him. Our relationships on earth are the fruit of our relationship with Christ.

This isn’t saying that the more friends you have, the better relationship you have with Christ, but it is speaking about the quality of our relationships and the way we view and treat others. If we are joyful and kind and can celebrate the wins and have compassion in times of sorrow, or if we don’t desire to engage in gossip and constantly find fault in others, this is a pretty good indicator that the light is before us and we are walking in it.

But if we are bitter, resentful, always looking for faults, or seeking out juicy gossip, it may be evidence of some harbored sin that’s hanging out in the dark corners of our hearts. Heart Check.

Are you walking light? What are your relationships like? Do they mirror your relationship with Christ?

John is saying that our relationship with Christ will directly affect our relationship with sin. When we are truly in relationship with Him, we will no longer be comfortable with or desire sin as we once did, it won’t taste as good as before, and we won’t sit and daydream about it longingly as we once did without conviction setting in.

Our love for God will show itself in obedience, and this gives us the assurance we need that we truly know and are walking with Him. Heart Check.

Secondly, this word abide means to dwell in, and if Christ is in us, there should be a habitual obedience, because that’s the way He was with the Father. He lived to please Him. Living with and for Christ will be evidenced by not only sinlessness but in the way we model our lives after Him. It’s sort of like looking at a child and saying, “Aww she looks just like her mother.” Heart Check.

When people look at you, would they be able to tell who your Heavenly Father is? Are you walking in His footsteps and does your walk emulate His?

Cain ended up murdering his brother because he allowed the root of bitterness and jealousy to grow unchecked. Remember, bitter roots produce bitter fruit, and that’s exactly what happened. His pride led to his misery, and his misery led to the rejection of God’s warning, and that rejection led him to murder. This is why John says that hatred for another is murder. Heart Check.

Are there any roots of jealousy or bitterness that you may need to uproot and submit to the Lord?

Why was John’s firsthand account so important? How did it strengthen the credibitlity of the gospel message?

Why do some struggle to acknowledge sin? How does the assurance of forgiveness impact the way you see sin in your own life?

If we were to say “God is ,” what other words aside from love would be fitting?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, We praise you for being the eternal Word of Life, who came to the earth so that we could know you personally.

Thank you for the testimony of those who had the privilege of walking with you, seeing you, audibly hearing you, and touching you in the fiesh. This confirmed the reality of your love and redemption, and it serves as a beautiful testimony for us today.

You are light, and in you, there is no darkness. Therefore, because you live in us, darkness must fiee. When the light is on, everything is exposed, and we have the responsibility to now look at the grime and mop it up. It is only by your blood that we are cleansed, so that is the first step in knowing that we need a savior, and we need you so we can be set free. So please search our hearts today and reveal all areas of darkness, whether it is sin, fear, or doubt. All of these things will hinder our fellowship with you.

We confess our sins to you today, knowing that you are faithful to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. Teach us to love one another as you have loved us and to walk together in unity and truth. As we do, we know that our joy will be made complete because of the assurance that we have in knowing that you have forgiven us and made us new.

I pray that our love for you will be seen in the way that we keep your commandments. May others know who our Father is by the way we walk, and I pray that we will leave a set of footprints for others who come after us. May these footprints be grounded in humility, compassion, and faithfulness.

Help us to love like you do, and please remove any hatred, anger, or bitterness that we may be harboring. Let your light shine through us, especially in the way we love others. And please guard our hearts from the temptations of the world. Remind us how these things that may appear to be exciting or may seem to be all important, but they are temporary and will never compare to the joy we will have in doing your will.

Thank you for anointing us by your Holy Spirit. The world is full of distractions and deception, so please give us discernment to recognize these things for what they are and I pray that we will stay grounded in truth. As we abide in you, we will have confidence and be able to boldly stand before you when you return.

Increase our discernment and remind us to test every spirit that comes in your name. Remind us that if they are teaching anything other than Jesus, they are of the antichrist spirit. But we know that you came in the fiesh, fully man but also fully God. Thank you that we do not need to fear this spirit, for you are in us, and you are greater than anything in this world. Thank you for the wonderful privilege that we have in knowing you.

If there are any fears that we are facing today, I pray that we will remind ourselves who dwells within us and take hold of the authority and power that resides in that love to cast out all fear. If there is anyone we need to forgive, help us to do so, so that we do not make a liar out of you or ourselves.

Thank you that we can rest assured of our salvation, knowing that our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ conquered sin and has overcome the world. Because He dwells in us, we too, are overcomers. Strengthen our faith to walk in obedience to your commands, always having a clear view of the way they protect us and the way they are not burdensome.

Thank you for the testimony that you have given us through water, blood, and Spirit. I pray that we will cling to this testimony with unwavering faith, holding tight to the eternal life that you have promised us. Guard our hearts and minds and protect us from idols so that that we can live in the freedom and joy of being your child.

2 John 1, John addresses his letter to an elect lady and her children, encouraging them to continue walking in truth and love.

He reiterates the importance of obeying God’s commandments and warns against false teachers who do not acknowledge Jesus Christ as coming in the fiesh. John exhorts believers to guard their faith and avoid aiding those who spread deception.

3 John 1, John writes to Gaius, commending him for his faithfulness and generosity in supporting workers for the Gospel.

He contrasts Gaius’s love and hospitality with the selfishness of Diotrephes, who opposes John’s authority and acts arrogantly. John encourages Gaius to imitate good and stay rooted in God’s truth while expressing hope to visit him soon.

It’s not just about knowing Scripture but letting it guide your decisions and shape your heart. Loving God is not a Sunday-only feeling; it’s gritty, real-life obedience. Refiect on whether you are faithfully living out God’s commands in your work, relationships, and personal choices.

Are you showing your love for God through obedience to His commands, not just in feeling but in action?

Radical generosity that you offer to the traveling Apostles to the traveling missionaries. It also can be considered work. I say all the time here on this channel that if you hit the like button, you engage with the content below. You're doing your part as a digital missionary because that gets the word out to more people. So you're laboring with us. Isn't that beautiful here?

He's saying that if you labor for the missionaries traveling, you give them food, you give them a place to sleep, um, you just take care of them while they're in that City for a period of time. You're also being a fellow worker and messaging the truth. So heart check.

The truth of Jesus—that He is fully God and fully man—is non-negotiable. Deception often distorts these core truths, and it’s our responsibility to remain vigilant.

Staying faithful to Christ requires discernment and a commitment to uphold the truth in every interaction. These checks help us align our lives with the truth, ensuring our faith is active, obedient, and rooted in Jesus.

Look at the teachers, preachers, and content you support—are they building up the Kingdom of God or straying from Scripture?

The account of Diotrephes reminds us to examine our hearts for any pride, selfishness, or controlling tendencies that might harm the unity of the church. Gossip, exclusion, and self-serving behavior are not from God and lead to division rather than love.

Let us instead follow the example of Gaius, showing hospitality and encouragement to others, and John, addressing wrongdoing with courage and grace.

Am I willing to confront sin lovingly and truthfully, as John did, or do I avoid addressing harmful behavior for the sake of comfort?

Evaluate the media, books, and ministries you consume—are they grounded in the truth of who Jesus is?

Are your words and actions supporting ministries and works that refiect God’s truth—or inadvertently contributing to falsehoods?

Do my interactions refiect Christian love and humility, or do they reveal a desire for control and recognition?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank You for the reminder of the importance of walking in Your truth, living in love, and standing ﬁrm against deception.

Lord, we acknowledge that You are the source of all truth and love, and we ask that You fill our hearts with both, so we may live lives that refiect Your character.

Father, help us to embody the commandment to love one another, not in mere words, but through actions rooted in obedience to You. Let our love be sincere, patient, and sacrificial, refiecting the love of Christ. Guard our hearts and minds against false teachings, and grant us discernment to recognize what is true and pleasing to You.

Protect Your church from division and deception, and empower us to stand boldly in the light of Your Word. Lord, we pray for the strength to imitate what is good and to resist what is evil. May our lives bear witness to the transforming power of Your truth, so that others may see and glorify You. Keep us humble, hospitable, and focused on building Your kingdom, rather than seeking personal recognition or control. Where pride or selfishness has crept into our hearts, we ask for Your forgiveness and guidance to align our lives with Your will.

Father, as we reflect on Gaius’s faithfulness and hospitality, may we be inspired to use the gifts You have given us to serve others selfiessly. Teach us to open our hearts and homes to those in need, offering encouragement and support to our fellow believers. Help us to be vessels of Your grace and love, so that the world may know we belong to You by the way we treat one another.

We also pray for courage to confront sin and error in a way that honors You. Help us to stand firm, like John, addressing what is wrong with both truth and love. Give us wisdom to discern when to speak and when to remain silent, always seeking Your glory above our own.

Lord, as we close our study of these letters, we ask for Your Spirit to continue working in our hearts. Transform us daily into the image of Christ, so that our words, actions, and motives align with Your purposes. Help us to walk in truth, love, and obedience, remaining faithful to Your Word.

May Your peace and grace be with us as we seek to glorify You in all we do. Keep us united in love, steadfast in faith, and ever mindful of the example set by Jesus, our Savior and King.

Revelation 1, Jesus reveals to the Apostle John the future events that lead to God's ultimate triumph over evil forever. John greets the seven churches in Asia, emphasizing grace and peace from the eternal God, the Spirit, and Jesus Christ, the faithful witness. John describes his vision of Christ in glory, who stands among seven golden lampstands, symbolizing the seven churches. Christ commissions John to write down everything he sees and hears.

Revelation 2, Jesus speaks a warning to four of the churches for their sinful behaviors and reveals the judgments to come if they continue to rebel against the Lord. He commends the church in Ephesus for its perseverance but warns them to rekindle their first love. Smyrna is encouraged to remain faithful through persecution. Pergamum is rebuked for tolerating false teachings, while Thyatira is praised for its love and service but warned against Jezebel's corrupt infiuence.

Revelation 3, A warning is written to the last three churches: Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. Sardis is criticized for its lifeless faith, urged to wake up and strengthen what remains. Philadelphia is commended for its endurance, holding fast to God’s word. Laodicea is warned for its lukewarm faith, called to repentance and deeper reliance on Christ.

Revelation 4, John's vision continues with him in the throne room of God. He describes the majesty of God’s throne, encircled by a rainbow and surrounded by 24 elders and four living creatures. Their constant worship declares God’s holiness and eternal power, setting the stage for the unfolding events.

Revelation 5, A scroll with seven seals is presented to the Lamb. No one in heaven or earth is found worthy to open the scroll except the Lamb, Jesus Christ, who is praised by all creation. John hears a heavenly song proclaiming Christ's worthiness due to His sacrificial death and redemption of mankind.

Jesus describes Himself as the Alpha and Omega—the beginning and the end of everything. When John encounters Jesus in all His glory, it’s a revelation of power and holiness. That same Jesus desires to search our hearts and reveal what needs refining. Are we willing to sit with Him and let Him lovingly point out the areas in our lives where He wants to work?

His truth isn’t just information; it’s transformation. Let’s ask ourselves: are we listening to Him or avoiding His voice because we don’t want to confront what needs changing?

Are we willing to sit with Him and let Him lovingly point out the areas in our lives where He wants to work?

Jesus’ letters to the churches show His deep care. He celebrates their faithfulness, endurance, and love but also calls out their weaknesses, like losing their first love or tolerating sin.Imagine Jesus writing directly to you—His rebukes aren’t to condemn us; they’re an invitation to grow deeper in our relationship with Him.

If Jesus wrote a letter to me as He did to the seven churches, what would He commend me for, and what would He lovingly rebuke? What would He praise you for? But also, where would He ask you to return to Him in repentance?

The church in Laodicea was lukewarm—not hot or cold—and Jesus said He would spit them out. That’s a harsh image, but it’s also a wake-up call. Being lukewarm means being comfortable, indifferent, or stagnant in our faith. He desires us to be on fire for Him, fully committed and fully alive.

Are we just going through the motions, or are we passionately pursuing Jesus? Am I fervent and alive in my faith, or have I become lukewarm in my relationship with Jesus?

When John sees the throne room of heaven, he witnesses unceasing worship. The creatures and elders fall before God, proclaiming His holiness and power. Worship isn’t just singing songs on Sunday; it’s a heart posture that recognizes God’s worth in everything we do.

Does my worship reflect the awe and reverence due to the One seated on the throne, who created all things? Do we approach Him with awe and gratitude for who He is, or have we let worship become routine and shallow?

This is my interpretation. I didn't look into it, but I see this Gap here. How he announced who's worthy. Who's Worthy?And there was a pause and a delay because Jesus hadn't come down to the Earth yet. This is the time of the good works, right? That religiosity is everything we were trying to do according to the law. Did it get magnified? Like, who's worthy? Not you, who's worth?

Not you, not you, not you, not you, not you, not you, not you, not you, not you, because sin corrupted us. None were worthy. Our sinful nature made it so that no one could open this message to scroll and reveal the good word. And then here, like John, the people bitterly wept. They were lost.

I'm sure they struggled with their sinful nature. When will the Messiah come? When will we be redeemed? When will God show up? And he wept because he was eager - earnest - to know the truth and the message, so he wept bitterly.

In chapter 5, Jesus is declared worthy to open the scroll—a symbol of ultimate authority and victory. This truth should transform how we live. Is Jesus truly at the center of our lives? Do our priorities refiect His worthiness? Let’s examine if we’re holding anything back from Him, and let’s surrender it all to the Lamb who gave everything for us.

Do I live as if Jesus, the Lamb who was slain, is worthy of all power, riches, wisdom, and glory in my daily decisions and priorities?

What is the significance of the sevenfold Spirit of God (Isaiah 11:2) in understanding the totality of the Holy Spirit’s work?

How do the letters to the seven churches challenge our understanding of obedience, perseverance, and spiritual health in a modern context?

What does the imagery of the throne room teach us about God’s sovereignty and holiness?

What is the significance of the Lamb’s worthiness to open the scroll, and how does this truth impact our understanding of Jesus’ sacrifice and authority?

How does the theme of worship in Revelation shape our response to trials, obedience, and daily faithfulness?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, We stand in awe of Your majesty and glory as revealed in these ﬁrst chapters of Revelation.

You are the Alpha and Omega, the One who was and is and is to come. Lord, we thank You for unveiling truths about Yourself that we need to know. Help us to let these truths take root in our hearts, transforming how we live and worship.

Jesus, You walk among the lampstands, present with Your people. You know our hearts, our struggles, and our victories. Search us, Lord, and reveal where we have strayed or grown lukewarm. Rekindle our love for You, that we may be fervent in our faith and steadfast in obedience. Help us to hear Your voice in the letters to the churches and apply Your words to our own lives.

Teach us to endure persecution like Smyrna, to hold fast to truth like Philadelphia, and to resist the complacency of Laodicea. Lord, we worship You as the One seated on the throne, surrounded by unending praise. Forgive us for the times we have approached You casually or let our worship grow stale.

Let our lives be a constant song of gratitude and awe, lifting up Your name in everything we do. Jesus, we declare You are worthy of all glory, honor, and power. You alone could open the scroll, and You alone are the Lamb who was slain for our sins.

Holy Spirit, guide us as we refiect on these heart checks. Help us to live in light of Your truth, to seek transformation, and to worship with hearts fully surrendered to You. Let us be a people who glorify You not just with our words but with our lives. Empower us to stand firm in the face of trials and to live with the hope of Your unshakable kingdom.

We give You all the glory and honor, Lord, for You are worthy. Thank You for the gift of Revelation, for showing us Your plan, and for reminding us that You are with us now and forever. May our lives reflect Your worthiness, and may we bring You joy as we walk in truth and love.

Revelation 6, John explains what happens on earth as each of the seven seals is opened on the scroll. The first four seals release four horses, bringing conquest, war, famine, and death. The fifth seal reveals the cries of the martyred saints for justice, and the sixth unleashes cosmic disturbances, including an earthquake, darkened sun, and falling stars.

A great multitude from every nation and tribe stands before God's throne, worshiping in white robes. They are identified as those who have come out of the great tribulation, washed clean by the blood of the Lamb.

Revelation 8, John finally sees the opening of the seventh seal on the scroll held by the Lamb.

There is silence in heaven for half an hour before seven angels are given trumpets. Each trumpet signals a judgment: destruction of vegetation, seas turning to blood, rivers poisoned, and celestial disturbances.

As the pit opens, smoke and terrifying locusts are released to torment mankind. Four angels bound at the Euphrates River are unleashed, leading to a vast army that kills a third of humanity, yet mankind refuses to repent.

Revelation 10, A mighty angel cries out, and seven thunders sound. John is instructed not to record the messages of the thunders. The angel proclaims the fulfillment of God’s mystery, and John eats the little scroll, symbolizing the sweetness of God’s word but the bitterness of its judgment.

Revelation 11, John records two witnesses that will prophesy in the end times, empowered by God to perform miracles and call for repentance.After being killed and resurrected, they ascend to heaven. The seventh trumpet sounds, bringing praise to God as His kingdom is proclaimed and the temple in heaven is opened.

The judgments described in this chapter are intended to wake us up to God’s reality and give us peace as we witness more and more chaos in our world. I don’t know about you, but each year that I study Revelation, the intensity and urgency burns deeper in my heart. Compared to years past, everything seems to make much more sense as we watch the current day events unfolding and setting the stage for what seemed impossible before.

This is what fuels me to wake up each day and do this Bible study. I know, without a doubt, that the Lord is calling His people to know His Word, to get ready, and to draw near. Heart Check.

Do you feel the urgency? How does this challenge you to live your life diﬀerently and to get others ready?

We end this chapter, standing outside the windows of heaven, getting a glimpse of what is to come—all of God’s children sitting in His presence, honoring and worshipping and thanking Him for salvation. I had someone once tell me that that sounded like an awful way to spend eternity—worshipping God. How boring, they thought. I get it—our human minds are not wired to fit this mold.

But the way I see it is that it’s going to be like the most epic Christmas ever. Whether you celebrate gift giving or not, you know the pure joy that comes with a child opening a gift. There is so much wonder and excitement in their eyes, and they have so much gratitude when they get that gift that they were hoping for.

I picture that little squeal as they run up to their father crying, “Thank you Daddy!” I believe heaven will be a million times those emotions. This is what an eternal perspective is like when you know God’s character. This is what will help us to look forward to heaven, especially in trying times. Heart Check.

We talk a lot about the power of prayer, but I don’t know if we truly understand how much power our prayers hold. Here, John is giving us this a rich image of how the collective cries and petitions of God’s people are being offered up and accepted, playing a role in His ultimate plan of redemption. The golden altar in heaven parallels the altar of incense in the tabernacle in the book of Exodus, and it signifies God’s presence and His readiness to listen. This means that every prayer we pray is significant to the ears of the Lord.

There is even more power in collective prayer, for where two or more are gathered, there He is. But notice that these prayers are being offered up at a very specific time, which reminds us that God does not operate on our time schedule. His timing is perfect, and our job is to trust Him in it. Heart Check.

What role does prayer have in your life? Are you conﬁdent that He hears you? Do you believe your prayers are signiﬁcant in His plans and purpose? Are there any areas where you may need to trust God’s timing and surrender your desires in prayer?

It always blows my mind that after all of the judgment being poured out here, the people’s hearts are still so hard. God is being so merciful in releasing His judgment in stages, allowing more time for people to repent, yet they don’t today and they won’t tomorrow. But then I think about areas in my own life where I struggle to let go or where I resist His call for change. Heart Check.

Are there any areas of your life where you are resisting change that you know is necessary for repentance?

How do the seals and trumpets fit into God’s prophetic plan? How do they reveal both God’s sovereignty and human responsibility?

What is the significance of the great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language? How does this fulfill God’s promise to Abraham, and what role does the church play in it?

What is the significance of the judgments being released in stages? What does this say about God’s desire for repentance?

How do you see God’s sovereignty and mercy, even in the midst of terrifying judgment?

Compared to years past, how do you see the stage being set for these events to take place?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, You are the Lamb of God, the one who holds the scroll and opens the seals, the one who reigns forevermore.

We humble ourselves before you today and thank you for your perfect redemptive plan that is unfolding before our very eyes. Thank you for the reminder of your sovereignty and power. You are in control of all things, and therefore, we do not need to fear what is to come.

As we read about the breaking of these seals, we can’t help but see the brokenness of our world and the resistance to your great mercy. Help us to live as faithful witnesses, standing firm in our faith, trusting in your protection, and declaring your truth to a world that is so desperately in need of repentance. Oh, God, we cry out for those who are resisting you, and pray that their hearts will be softened to your grace and love. Help them to see their need for the Savior.

For those who continue living in wickedness and hardness of heart, we know that you will bring vengeance and vindicate your people. Strengthen us in that assurance so that we don’t feel the need to seek vengeance on our own. I pray that we will persevere in times of opposition or rejection.

Thank you for putting a seal on us, marking us by your blood, and declaring your ownership over us. We don’t want to ever be under any other false sense of security or protection. We have been sealed for a very specific purpose, which you have given us before the foundations of the earth. I pray that we will be faithful to fulfill that. Show us the way and give us the steps to complete it.

Lord, as you continue to sound the alarm, give us a greater urgency to share the gospel with others. We want to be faithful witnesses while we are still here. I pray that we will devour the Word so that we can go forth and preach with a boldness in our hearts and conviction in our mouths, so that others will come to know you before it is too late. We pray for eyes to be opened as your Spirit moves in the hearts of your chosen ones.

Thank you for opening the window shades of heaven and allowing us to get a peek into what is to come. Our minds can’t even begin to understand the magnitude of your greatness, but I pray that we will get a taste so that we will look forward with an eternal perspective, especially in the harder times of life. Let our eyes continually be fixed on you, holding fast to the hope of your ultimate victory.

And I pray that our lives and our prayers will be a pleasing aroma to you. Help us to see that our prayers are significant and that your timing in answering them is perfect. Oh, how we long for the day when every tear will be wiped away, suffering and pain will be no more, and we will dwell with you forever. Until then, may we be found faithful and hopeful in what is yet to come.

Revelation 12,John envisions a pregnant woman in labor and a great red dragon. The woman represents God’s people, and the dragon seeks to devour her child. A battle ensues in heaven, with Michael and his angels defeating the dragon, who then wages war on the woman’s offspring.

Revelation 13,A beast rises from the sea and is given power from the great dragon. The beast is worshiped and blasphemes God. A second beast rises from the earth, deceiving humanity into worshiping the first beast and receiving its mark.

Revelation 14, The Lamb and the 144,000 stand on Mount Zion. Three angels proclaim the coming wrath of God, warning against worshiping the beast. The earth is reaped, symbolizing God’s judgment and the separation of the righteous from the wicked.

Revelation 15, Seven angels bearing the final seven plagues of God's wrath are revealed. The redeemed sing the song of the Lamb by a sea of glass, glorifying God’s justice and righteousness. The seven angels receive bowls filled with God’s wrath.

Revelation 16, The seven bowls of God’s final wrath are poured out. John describes horrific judgments, including sores, rivers turning to blood, intense heat, and darkness. Armies gather for the great battle at Armageddon as the bowls culminate in an earthquake and hailstorm.

Revelation 17, John is introduced to the great prostitute and the scarlet beast. The prostitute symbolizes false religion and corruption, seducing the kings of the earth. The beast wages war against the Lamb but is ultimately defeated.

Revelation 18, John writes of the fall of Babylon, the great city. He details its sins of greed and immorality, leading to its destruction. Merchants and kings lament Babylon’s fall, while heaven rejoices over God’s righteous judgment.

This verse gives us three keys to our victory over Satan: the blood of Jesus, because it renders his accusations ineffective since our penalty has already been paid, declaring us righteous and innocent. He can whine all day up there to the Father, but Jesus says, “I took their place. Case closed.”

Our testimony also plays a crucial role in this victory. Knowing what God has done in your life and holding on that knowledge for dear life, will keep you from crumbling when the enemy tries to deceive you with his lies that you’re not good enough, people don’t like you, you are not worthy, or he’ll even try to make you think you’re better than you are so your ego will swell. His condemnation is always self-focused. And lastly, loving not our lives helps us to overcome Satan. In other words, we don’t cling to this life as if it’s the most precious thing to us.

The devil will always try to make you think you need more, and he will lie to you by saying that the more will come from the world and not from God. Mark 8:35 says we find our life by losing it to Jesus. Heart Check.

Are you solid in knowing your testimony? Have you fully surrendered your life to Jesus, or are you clinging tightly to it as if it’s the most precious thing to you?

Once again, we see another way that Satan will try to imitate what God does. God put a seal on the foreheads of His people, and now the antichrist will do the same. This is his mojo—he’s a copycat.

He will attempt to do things so they appear to be from heaven, but they are merely cheap counterfeit versions. And he will try to infiuence us to do the same. He will try to lure us in to envying someone else’s success so that we will get anxious enough to copy what they’re doing in hopes of having the same outcome. You can see it in the world of social media, where so many infiuencers look and sound the same. But ultimately what he’s doing is distracting us from our own unique calling and purpose.

I’ll admit, I have done this in my own life, and it has never been fruitful. This doesn’t mean we can’t learn or glean from others, but what fuels us will indicate where our motive is. The fuel of the enemy will always be anxiety, whereas the fuel of the Holy Spirit is peace. Whatever is fueling your passion will indicate the spirit that is behind it. Heart Check.

This chapter is focused on pure living, from the 144,000 who are undefiled and blameless, to the warnings from the three angels about worshipping anything other than God, to the image of the separation at the harvest. These words are not just for those living in the tribulation. They are intended for us to live with intention now so that we are spiritually ready to leave this earth. Heart Check.

Here we see the allies of the prostitute turning on her and destroying her. This is what evil does. It will use anything to serve its purpose until it doesn’t need it anymore, and then it will spit it out. Sin does the same thing with us. It serves us well until it doesn’t, and then it eats us up and spits us out.

This is why it is important not to make unholy alliances. You will know by the way they lure you in and love bomb you, but the moment you disappoint them, they will make you feel as though you are the worst person in the world.

They will make you think you have common enemies, and they will make you think they are on your side, as long as you are serving their purpose, but the moment they feel threatened, they will throw you under the bus. Heart Check.

How does the cosmic perspective of Revelation 12 shape your understanding of the church’s mission and your role in it?

What parallels can you draw between the beasts in Revelation 13 and historical or contemporary systems of power that oppose God?

How can we reconcile God’s judgment with His mercy in Revelation 14? How does this shape your understanding of God’s character?

What parallels can be drawn between the imagery in Revelation 15 and the Old Testament? How does this enhance your understanding of God’s redemptive plan?

What do these chapters teach us about the power of spiritual deception and the importance of discerning truth?

What is the Godly or biblical perspective on wealth and how do we keep a healthy perspective on it?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for continuing to reveal to you us your love, your mercy, your sovereignty, and your power.

We know there is a spiritual battle raging around us, especially as we draw closer to the completion of your redemptive plan. Thank you that we do not need to fear this, for in you have the assurance and security of the ultimate victory that has been given to us by the blood of the Lamb. I pray that we will have a good understanding of what this truly means so that we will be confident in our testimony. Give us the courage to share with others what you have done in our lives so that your power will be tangible to those we encounter.

May we be faithful, for you are faithful. What a beautiful image we see today of the way you so beautifully protected the mother who was clothed with the sun and defeated the dragon that sought to destroy her. I pray that we will stand secure under the shadow of your wings, knowing that we have that same divine protection. Give us firm footing in the face of the enemy’s lies and accusations. Give us full trust in your provision when we begin to feel the scarcity of the wilderness seasons.

Protect us from the seductive power of the Babylon. Give us wisdom to know what it is and all that it entails, from the allure of wealth to pride, greed, immorality, and self-sufficiency. We know these things can seem so innocent and pleasurable at first, but how quickly we can become ensnared by their power. Let it not be so. Guard our hearts and minds against anything that tries to make us compromise our devotion to you. We want to be the holy people that you created us to be, living in this world but not of it. We know we can’t be completely detached, for there is so much work to do and so many who desperately need to hear your voice, and we may be the only Jesus they ever see or hear. So let us be your vehicles that you use to work in their lives.

Lord, we acknowledge your judgments and that they are true and just. Help us to see this in light of your love and all that you did for us at the altar of the cross. It was there that the most incredible love is displayed, and if we can’t grasp what that meant, we will never understand the mercy you have poured out into the world. You have been incredibly patient, but we know that it is soon coming to an end. Let us be fully engaged in sharing your truth and love with those around us so that they can be ready.

You alone have every right to judge the earth, and your righteousness is seen in the downfall of every evil system that opposes you. So let us join with the heavenly hosts in worshipping you and rejoicing over your redemption. As hard as it is to imagine the great fall in the end, we will look to your goodness, and we will see God.

Jesus, thank you for putting yourself at the altar as the perfect sacrificial Lamb. Because of the victory over the beast and dragon, we can fight from victory in the here and now. You are the true King and the Lord of lords. Please give us strength to walk in our calling, knowing that you have called us, and that every second that we are alive, we are still doing your good work. Let us be the light in the dark world and the beacon on a hill, especially as the enemy prowls around looking for those he can devour. Cancel his assignments that do not serve your purpose and let us resist his schemes as we stand behind the armor of your truth.

Fill us with discernment and empower us today, Holy Spirit. May we maintain an eternal perspective and always be at the ready for the day that you come in the clouds and call us home. Let our worship be pure, our testimony be bold, and our hope unshakeable in the promise of your Word.

Revelation 19, After Babylon’s fall, John records a mighty heavenly celebration. The marriage supper of the Lamb is announced, and Jesus descends on a white horse as the victorious King. The beast and its followers are defeated, and birds feast on their remains.

Revelation 20, Satan is bound in the bottomless pit for a thousand years. John witnesses the first resurrection and the reign of Christ with the saints. After Satan’s release, he leads one final rebellion, which is crushed. The Great White Throne judgment takes place, condemning the wicked to the lake of fire.

Revelation 21, John sees a new heaven and a new earth. New Jerusalem descends, radiating God’s glory. God dwells with His people, wiping away every tear. John marvels at the city’s beauty and the promise of eternal life.

Revelation 22, John stands before the River of Life. Jesus speaks His final words, offering a call to repentance and readiness for His return. The vision concludes with a blessing for those who keep His words and a warning not to add or take away from them. “Come, Lord Jesus!”

Heaven is rejoicing loudly and enthusiastically, because it’s finally time for the wedding. Remember, Jewish weddings have several parts—the engagement, the betrothal, and finally, the wedding. We are in the waiting between the betrothal and the wedding. We are awaiting the groom (Jesus) to come for His bride (the church). And when He does, it is going to be the most epic wedding ever. In preparation for the wedding, the bride would take a bath, rub herself down with oils, put on perfume, and clothe herself with the fine, bright, and pure linen.

And even though we don’t get into heaven by what we do, there is a preparation that takes place regardless. Once we commit our lives to the Lord or betroth ourselves to Him, there is a constant cleansing that takes place by the washing of the Word and the sanctification by the oil of the Holy Spirit.

We live our lives in fellowship with Him, as our prayers are offered up like the sweet fragrance of the perfume. We are already wearing robes of righteousness, and we maintain the purity of them by stating faithful and loyal to Him while we wait. When we do this, we wil be able to stand before Him confident and not nervous or feeling like it’s arranged marriage to someone we don’t know. Heart Check.

Here, we see the 4th beatitude in Revelation, declaring those invited to the Wedding Feast blessed. Whenever my husband and I receive wedding invitations, we joke about whether we are on the A-list or B-list. We have a laugh and then simply feel grateful for being invited at all. God only has one list of those who get an invitation to the wedding. It’s those who RSVPed to His first invitation. Those who answered the call to salvation will get another invite into heaven. It’s a simple question, yet the most important… Heart Check.

We can’t let this moment pass without recognizing that the Spirit and the Bride say, “Come.” This is an open invitation to answer the call to salvation. It doesn’t require perfection or making things right before you do—it is simply acknowledging that you want to be made new. You want to walk away from the old life and live a better one. You want to know where you will end up once you take your last breath on this earth. And none of us know when that will be, but what we do know is that there will be no second chances once it happens. So choose heaven. Choose life.

Choose Jesus. Don’t neglect this beautiful divine gift of salvation that He is offering.

The Bible says that the wages of sin is death, and we have all fallen short. But Jesus paid the price, not because we deserved it, but because He loves us, and He would rather die than live without us. So we’re the giving the opportunity now to anyone who says, “I’m ready,” or anyone else who feels they want to recommit their life, because perhaps you’ve gone astray and you want to make your calling and election sure.

If that’s you and you want to know beyond a shadow of a doubt where you will end up once you leave this earth, we’re going to pray together. I’ll put the words on the screen so that you can say them audibly with your mouth, because the Bible says that when you believe and confess with your mouth that Jesus is the Savior of the World who died and rose again, you will be saved. So as you pray this with all your heart, know that this is the day of your salvation:

Thank you for Jesus. Jesus, I believe that you are the Son of God. You are real, and you came to the earth to die in our place, paying the price for our sin. So I confess my sins to you today, nailing every one of them, past, present, and future, to the cross. I want to live for you, so I turn from my old life. By your blood and resurrection, I know that I am made new. I am no longer a slave to sin but am free from the power it has on my life, and I commit to living for you. I surrender my life to you and receive you now as Lord and Savior of my life. In Jesus name.

God started the Bible and the history of humankind in the book of Genesis, and now we end here with Him closing it out in this book of Revelation with the same word that He started with: grace. The unearned, unmerited, undeserved favor from God. This is truly a gift that gives us just a glimpse into our eternal destiny. It isn’t so much about judgment, or the antichrist, or destruction.

It’s a guidebook to find hope in the midst of that. It’s a reminder that we’re going home! And one day, we will all be able to give each other a big bear hug in heaven. What a privilege it has been to hear His voice and to do so with all of you. Thank you for joining me, Holly, and so many others on this journey. It has been life-changing for me personally, and I can’t imagine what His Word has done in your life. So we close it out with one last Heart Check.

** We would love to hear from you if you have a testimony. You can either comment below or email us at heartdiveministry@gmail.com and let us know how the Lord has moved in your life.**

Where do you see prophecy being fulfilled? How does this deepen your understanding of the reality of Revelation?

What do the books represent and how do they emphasize the importance of our works?

What is the significance of the Great White Throne and where do believers fit into judgment?

If God is making all things new, what are some things that will be new that will fall within the realm of what Heaven should be like?

What heartbeats of God (attributes, promises, works) have stood out to you the most throughout your Bible reading journey? How has this changed the way you live? How has it challenged you?

How can you use what you’ve learned to encourage or disciple others in their faith journey?

Our gracious Heavenly Father, Thank you for another year, having completed such a beautiful mission of reading your Word. Thank you for placing the desire to do so in our hearts. It has, without a doubt, changed our lives for the better. It has given us a thirst for more of you.

We cry out with the angels, “Hallelujah!” We praise you, Lord, for your mercy, our salvation, your glory and power, and your judgments that are true and just. You are the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, our God Almighty, who reigns on high. We give you all the glory. May our worship here on earth be just as enthusiastic and joyful as it is in heaven.

We trust your perfect timing and justice that is to come, but until then, let us ready ourselves for the most epic wedding feast ever. We thank you for the robes of righteousness that you have already placed over us. I pray that we will be faithful to continually purify ourselves by the washing of the Word so that we may be found faithful, loyal, and pure in your sight. Keep us close as we commune and fellowship with you in prayer. Thank you, that you desire to have a relationship with us, not because of anything we’ve done, but despite what we’ve done and simply because you love us.

If there is anyone who is wondering if they will be invited to the feast, move in their hearts today to RSVP to your call to salvation. Let them know how much they are loved and how eternally they are forgiven of all sin. Draw them near and let them feel your love so their resistance will be released as they surrender their lives to you. Your mercy is available to all, but only those who receive it in this life will be saved from the lake of fire. May we never look loosely upon this. Use us as instruments of your grace to share the good news to those who don’t know you.

You are Faithful and True, our conquering King and we celebrate the victory today, for the battle has already been won. When we face trouble in this life, we will remember this, knowing that there is nothing that you can’t handle. There is nothing that is impossible for you, and you will triumph over every evil. Help us to live with confidence and hope in your promises, for there are none that you don’t keep.

We look forward to the day when evil and the deception of the enemy is no longer. While it is heartbreaking to know that there will be some who are still deceived in the end, it is not because they are tricked. There will be a willful rejection of Christ by those who still don’t believe in your holiness. But blessed and holy are the ones who remain faithful and whose names are written in the Book of Life. That’s us! So let us resist the schemes of the enemy, even now, knowing that he is on a leash and his power is limited. We rejoice, knowing that death and sin will be cast into the lake of fire and that your justice will prevail.

What an honor and privilege to know that we will one day reign with you, our Sovereign Creator, the Alpha and Omega. One day, you will declare, “It is done,” and we will be able to see that you were there in the beginning just as you are in the of time as we know it. You are eternal, and we can’t even begin to grasp what that truly means. But we know it’s pretty awesome.

We rejoice that you are doing a new thing and making all things new, without creases, without defect, without imperfections. One day, there will be no more tears, no more pain, no more darkness. We can’t wrap our minds around what this new heaven and new earth will be like, but we know that it is promised to be more glorious than anything we have ever experienced on this earth. It’s simply better than the best. And being with you for eternity is our highest privilege. Thank you for helping us to see that that is your ultimate desire—you would rather die than be without us. Thank you, Jesus, for making a way for us to be a part of the Bride and to drink from the spring of living water. Satisfy our spiritual thirst today as we trust in the fulfillment of your perfect Word.

Holy Spirit, guide us in keeping the words of this prophecy, never neglecting it, but bringing it to light. You are coming soon, so prepare our hearts to be ready. And we end this last prayer with all praise in our hearts as we collectively say, “Come Lord Jesus.” In your precious name we pray. Amen.