Read: Galatians 6:7-10
“Whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”  

If we generously give (sow) to bless the Lord, He simply will not be outgiven. His promise is to keep the flow of generosity going and to give back more, so that we have even more to give.

Read: Luke 6:38

The Lord doesn’t mind being tested in this unique principle as we read in Malachi 3:10: “Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.”

Jesus modeled this kind of extraordinary generosity for us and now we can  model it for the next generation of believers by choosing today to be regularly and radically generous givers. “Lord, teach me to give like You!”

Spend some time praying for the people that God has put on your heart.

Read: Read: 2 Corinthians 9:10-11 
“You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.”  
One of the amazing mysteries of God is the eternal effect of unhindered generosity. The gift given from a heart of true generosity goes far beyond that initial gift.  It not only blesses the receiver, it also blesses the giver so that the giver can keep on giving and ultimately, so that thanksgiving erupts to God!  It is good to celebrate the fruit that comes as a result of your generosity. Giving just one time today, means blessing others tomorrow, and the next day, and next year and so on.  It’s like a cascading waterfall without end, refreshing all who look upon it and drink from it.  
so that the giver can keep on giving and ultimately, so that thanksgiving erupts to God!

It is good to celebrate the fruit that comes as a result of your generosity. Giving just one time today, means blessing others tomorrow, and the next day, and next year and so on. It’s like a cascading waterfall without end, refreshing all who look upon it and drink from it.  

Spend some time praying for the people God has put on your heart.

Read: Hebrews 10:24-25
“Consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.”  

Discipleship is growing in our Christian faith and it is often fostered by the help of a teacher or mentor.  Sometimes we exclude ourselves from being used of God in this way, but the truth is Jesus has asked all of us to “Go out and make disciples.” (Matthew 8:19-20) We ought not exempt ourselves from being those who help others grow in their faith simply because we don’t have a Bible degree.  

As we generously make time for talking with others about the Lord and His word, we foster a healthy culture that invites our lives to be interrupted.  The grace of our Lord Jesus will give you wisdom as He guides you (and your friend) into greater understanding.

Spend some time praying for the people that God has put on your heart.

Read: Acts 4:32
“All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of their possessions was their own, but they shared everything they had.”  

This mix of extraordinary generosity with extreme hospitality has seldom been seen throughout history, but the early Church was known for building a community that looked and functioned more like family. Our Father is blessed when His kids all happily get along. Psalms 133:1 says, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!”

There is a great deal of contention in our world today nonetheless the Church can stand united in love, caring for one another even if we don’t always agree on everything. How can you be part of creating a healthy, loving spiritual community?  

Spend some time praying for the people that God has put on your heart.

Read: Mark 16:15
“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”  

This command of Jesus can be quite intimidating when we consider “all the world” and “all creation.” As one member of His Church, you can start small and reframe the heart of His command: “Go next door and let your neighbor know about the good news of Jesus Christ.”

Prayerfully consider ONE person in your life who has yet to discover the freedom Christ brings.  Have you told them about Jesus yet? Ask the Lord for wisdom, words, and opportunity to take the next step and confidently share the gospel with your friend.  
Romans 10:14-15 reminds us that they can’t know about Jesus, if no one actually shares the truth with them.  Be the one who finds courage to share.

Spend some time praying for the people God puts on your heart.

Read: Romans 15:5-7
“Receive one another, just as Christ also received us.”  

How did Christ receive us? Let’s take a look at this verse: Romans 5:8 “But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” While we were still sinners. We were received by Christ even in our wretched state. He makes room at His table for anyone who will say yes to His invitation.

We too ought to welcome, without prejudice, everyone who comes through our doors. We will not all look alike, act alike, pray alike and many of us will have ugly war wounds from life’s battles. Nonetheless, the Lord has called us to welcome all who seek Him. Practice today, welcoming the stranger into your world.

Spend some time praying for the people God has put on your heart.

When we prepare our home for guests—cleaning, cooking, arranging spaces—we're doing more than tidying up. We’re saying, “You matter. I’ve made space for you.” That’s not just hospitality; that’s active loving generosity.  Lord, remind us to invite others, and give us a heart that welcomes them in.

In Matthew 5: 13-15 (MSG), Jesus instructed His friends:

“Let me tell you why you are here. You’re here to be salt-seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth. If you lose your saltiness, how will people taste godliness? You’ve lost your usefulness and will end up in the garbage."

Here’s another way to put it: You’re here to be light, bringing out the God-colors in the world. God is not a secret to be kept. We’re going public with this, as public as a city on a hill. If I make you light-bearers, you don’t think I’m going to hide you under a bucket, do you? I’m putting you on a light stand. Now that I’ve put you there on a hilltop, on a light stand—SHINE! Keep open house; be generous with your lives. By opening up to others, you’ll prompt people to open up with God, this generous Father in heaven.”

Read: Exodus 20:8–10
“Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy.”
 
Keeping a whole day designated for holy rest is not a new idea. In fact, it is one of the 10 Commandments given to Moses. However, how many of us actually take a whole day to rest? Our “get ahead world” certainly doesn’t approve of it and yet God, who is all-powerful, rested at the end of that first busy week of creation! How much more ought we take this practice to heart and make room in our busy schedules for a day set apart to rest and reflect?  

Consider rearranging your week to make room for this important spiritual discipline. Honoring Sabbath rest as the Word instructs us, honors the Lord. Extra Reading: Genesis 2:1-3

Spend some time waiting on the Lord to give direction.

Read: Joshua 1:8
“Never stop reading The Book of the Law...Day and night you must think about what it says.”  

We were reminded last week of the truthfulness of the Word of God.  It’s not enough to know it’s true; we have to consume it like food to gain spiritual nourishment. Implementing regular reading of the Bible cultivates a closer relationship with God, strengthens faith, and equips us to navigate life's challenges with wisdom and confidence.  

The Word of God and the Holy Spirit can literally transform your life! Ask the Lord for His wisdom as you read with a heart towards learning and growing. Extra Reading: Psalm 119:105

Spend some time waiting on the Lord to give direction.

Read: Luke 6:38
“Give, and it will be given to you.”

The Lord’s economy is not at all like the world’s. This is one of the mysteries of the Kingdom of God. His wisdom instructs us to GIVE first and trust Him for the return. The world teaches us to get, accumulate and store up for ourselves. Jesus warns that this sort of self-first lifestyle will end poorly. (Matthew 6:19)

It’s not that the Lord needs our money, but He knows that as we relinquish our grip on what we hold most dear, we can find great freedom. Ask the Lord for opportunities this very day, to give extravagantly and watch what He does with your gift!

Spend some time waiting on the Lord to give direction.

Read: Romans 12:9-13
“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.”  

Did you know there is a difference in cold and warm climate cultures?  In essence, cold climate cultures prioritize getting things done efficiently, while warm climate cultures prioritize building and maintaining strong relationships.  

Whereas getting things done can be a virtue, we don’t want to miss the value of opening our lives, our hearts and homes to build relationship. In the gospels, we often read about Jesus making time for meals with old and new friends. Consider how the Lord might be leading you to adopt this practice.

Spend some time waiting on the Lord to give direction.

Read: 1 Thessalonians 5:15-22 
“Pray continually.” 

Another translation says that we ought to “Pray without ceasing.” How is this possible - what does the Lord mean?

At it’s most basic definition, prayer is communication with God that is meant to go both ways.  As believers, we are in constant connection with the Lord, sometimes speaking, sometimes listening but God’s plan is that we are always in a growing relationship with Him.

Most of us can talk to God, but we may lack confidence in our ability to hear Him speak.  He loves that we lean in to try and He knows how to speak so we will hear and learn to recognize His voice.

Extra Reading: John 10:27-28

Spend some time waiting for the Lord to give direction.

Read: 1 Timothy 6:6-11 
“Godliness with contentment is great gain.”

We are regularly inundated with ads that compel us to get more stuff all in search of happiness.  The Bible teaches that we can actually find contentment, while living with less.  In fact, with less stuff, we make room for calm and order.  Jesus practiced living on very little, and even fasting from food from time to time as He sought only to draw strength from God, His Father.  

As our model, we can likewise learn to find contentment when we refuse to be governed by food and by our possessions. Consider what the Lord might be asking you to release in order that He might fill you with His peace.  Read: Hebrews 13:5

Spend some time waiting for the Lord to give direction.

Once the foundation is laid, the builders begin to shore up beams and create long-lasting structure. This frame will eventually be covered up by painted walls and carpeted floor, nonetheless this unseen careful sturdiness is required before there is space to really live.

In the same way, we as God’s children  can build strength in the form of good habits and discipline in our lives. Spiritual disciplines are important because they are the means by which we can grow in godliness, deepen our relationship with God, and align our lives with His Word. They are not about earning salvation or favor, but about intentionally cultivating a life that abides in Christ.  

Reading and praying through this journal is one type of spiritual practice that can help shape your journey.  In this coming week, we’ll look at other ways to create healthy structure by adopting spiritual disciplines that honor God and build faith.

Take time at the end of each reading to wait upon the Lord for a few minutes, asking Him for guidance on how He might like to build structure in your life.  Lean in to hear His response. It may mean He would like to remove some bad habits, to make room for new healthy ones.  

Read: 1 Samuel 15
“Does the Lord delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as in obeying the Lord?
To obey is better than sacrifice.”  

Saul thought he could impress God with his sacrifice.  The Lord looks at the heart. As much as He loves the cheerful giver, He desires that we first walk in faithful, even wild obedience.

We shouldn’t give a dime more than He’s asked us to, but we should give every single thing He has asked us to.  Obedience is worship given to our worthy and extraordinarily generous Father.  

Read here for how wildly obedient Jesus was: Philippians 2:8 and then read: John 14:15-24.

Spend some time in prayerful reflection.

Read: 1 Corinthians 13:3 
“Though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.”  

When considering all the many virtues of Jesus, nothing is greater than His sacrificial love - and that love is for YOU.  The very best way to love others, is to believe and receive His great love first. This can be difficult if we’re still trying to earn something He freely gives us. Out of the overflow of receiving such  love, we can extravagantly love others.

Ask the Lord, “Do I believe, really believe, that You love me in the way You want me to know your love?  Help me in my unbelief.”

Extra Reading: John 15:12-17

Spend some time in prayerful reflection.

Read: 2 Corinthians 9:7 
“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.” 

It’s unlikely that Jesus a lot of cash on hand, but He was generous with His life, always giving of His time and resource.  His very first miraculous act was at a wedding, a celebration of joy by turning water into wine!  This was just the beginning of many generous acts of miraculous kindness. He is our perfect model of freely giving with a cheerful heart! What is the source of  joy when giving? How do you feel about giving?
 
Extra Reading:  John 2:1-12

Spend some time in prayerful reflection.

Read: Philippians 4:19 
“My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”  

This verse stands as a promise from God to His children.  In fact, according to Genesis 22, “The-Lord-Will-Provide” is one of the very names of God also known as “Jehovah Jireh”.  The Lord can not and will not ever deny His identity.  The foundation of our faith must stand firm upon this truth: whether in plenty or in want, GOD IS YOUR PROVIDER.  

We can be capable at earning a living wage or saving money, but unless we recognize that God is Lord of all, we risk becoming ungrateful  laborers.  Unless He is Lord of all, He is not Lord at all. Extra Reading: Genesis 22

Spend some time in prayerful reflection.

Read: 2 Timothy 3:16
“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness.”

In an age when fake news abounds and deception seems to overtake every conversation, the Word of God will always remain true.  We can draw assurance from the Lord knowing He has given us, as a necessary gift, His written word to guide and grow us as we walk with Him.  

The Bible and the Holy Spirit are crucial in our protection against deception and our transformation into the likeness of Christ! Extra reading: Psalm 119

Spend some time in prayerful reflection.

Read: Ephesians 2:19-22
“Jesus Christ Himself is the chief cornerstone,  in whom the whole building, being fitted together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord.”  

Although it seems obvious that Jesus Christ, our Lord and Redeemer, is the central figure of all life, “reconciling all things to Himself”, we can still be deceived into believing that we are the central point of life.  We often spend more time considering “our truth” and arguing our opinions, when all along we have a King who is the One who holds all things together!

Extra reading: Colossians 1:15-20

Spend some time in prayerful reflection.

The Wise and Foolish Builders
“Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock.  The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.”
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching, because he taught as one who had authority, and not as their teachers of the law. (Matthew 7:24-27)
 
A strong and resilient faith, requires that we build upon Truth, beginning with the cornerstone: JESUS CHRIST.  He is our foundation. As we build on Christ’s salvation and His Holy Word, we are assured that the Lord is well able to keep us from falling. This resilient life is able to stand strong in trials.  

This week, spend time in prayerful reflection after each reading and consider how you can find greater strength in God.  

Read: Proverbs 11:24-25
“One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”

Parents train their children to share because they are not born naturally generous. Unfortunately, none of us naturally grow out of this tendency. It requires our deliberate decision to die to selfishness and take on  the generous life of Christ.  

Read: Matthew 10:8 

When we choose to give freely, even as we have received, we discover that God’s provision comes rushing in, filling us up and meeting every need.
 
Prayer Focus:
Ask the Lord to uproot selfishness and anything that keeps you from living & giving with freedom.

Read: Matthew 6:25–33
“Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life...Can any one of you, by worrying, add a single hour to your life?”  (v. 25 & 27)

It can seem very normal and even wise to worry about some things, but Jesus is very clear here: Do Not Worry.  Our Father has you covered in every way.  When we worry, we believe that somehow, it will help us avoid pain, suffering or lack but really all it does is steal our peace and stunt our faith in God.  

Worrying keeps our eyes on ourselves and our problems.  When our eyes are kept on the Lord and His Kingdom, peace fills our heart and we find grace to trust Him in our most challenging times.  He is good.

Prayer Focus:
In what areas of life do you worry the most? What does it mean to seek the Kingdom of God first?   Write out a prayer to God, releasing worry and asking for faith to trust Him more.

Read: Malachi 3
“Return to me, and I will return to you,” says the Lord Almighty...“Will a mere mortal rob God? Yet you rob me. But you ask, ‘How are we robbing you, God?’ “In tithes and offerings. You are under a curse—your whole nation—because you are robbing me.”

The people of God were confused.  They misunderstood what it meant to follow God.  They thought they could be God’s people without giving back to Him what He gave to them in the first place. They forgot that He is Lord of ALL.  God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:19  How rich is God?

Prayer Focus:
Consider all that God has given you and thank Him for it.  Commit to give back to the Lord, trusting that He will supply all of your needs.

Read: 1 Timothy 6:10 
“The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”

Our current culture teaches us to pursue money, power and comfort.  Money isn’t really the problem; it is the LOVE OF MONEY that gets us into trouble.
 
Jesus taught us that instead, we ought to LOVE GOD with everything in us. In Mathew 6:24, He warns, “Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other.”  We have to choose who or what we will love.

Prayer Focus:
Break-up with worldly loves and surrender your heart and devotion to God alone. Ask the Lord to give you a heart that loves Him above all else.