The Word of God Is Alive

Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 3:17, John 8

John 8:31-32 says, “To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” 

The truth that Jesus is talking about is found in God’s Word! It allows us to live a life of true freedom. The world offers a “freedom”, but it will never compare to the true freedom that is found in Christ. 

So ask yourself: What in your life do you feel like you need freedom from? Is it from a bad habit? Maybe an addiction or a bad mindset? 

Jesus didn’t die for us to be bound to something. He died so we could be free and have an abundant life. The Word of God can and will transform your life. Over the next 14 days as we make our way through this plan let’s go all in and see how it will!

Scriptures: Hebrews 4:12, John 3:19-21, Titus 1:9

Have you ever been told something that hurt but in the end made you better? For example, has a friend ever corrected you when you were doing something that you shouldn’t have been doing? Or has a parent or sibling called you out for being mean or stubborn? When these things happen, they often can hurt our feelings. However, if we listen and correct our actions or attitude, it can cause us to change for the better. The Bible is often like our friends or family in those scenarios. When we open and read the word of God, it shows us where we are falling short of God’s standard. It exposes our sin and helps guide us to live a life of righteousness.

This is what we call conviction. Oftentimes we do our best to stay away from conviction. Why? Because it hurts. It’s uncomfortable. But did you know that conviction is God’s way of shaping us to look more like His Son Jesus? Therefore, we should welcome conviction into our lives. We should be asking God, “Lord, convict me. Show me where my pride is.” This is a big reason why we should be eager to read God’s Word. As we mature as believers in Jesus, we should desire the conviction of God through His word.

Question: Where have you seen God’s conviction in your life? How did it transform you?

Scripture: 2 Timothy 3

Have you ever had an important test at school, a big game for your sport or maybe a huge musical performance? Of course, we all have, but have you ever studied or practiced so hard and you still don’t feel you have what it takes to perform well? It’s like you walk into the classroom, onto the field or onto the stage and suddenly you can’t even remember your name. It’s like you don’t feel equipped to do the task at hand.

Sometimes living a Christ like life can feel like this. Being a follower of Jesus means being obedient to God’s will. Sometimes God calls us to do hard things that we don’t understand. It feels like we aren’t equipped to do the things he’s calling us to. But good for us we serve a God who knew we would feel like this so he gave us the Bible to guide us. 2 Timothy 3 discusses the struggles as a Christian but reassures us that we don’t have to feel unequipped. Because the Bible is God breathed we can rely on it to equip us for what God calls us to. If we knew how to do it all then we wouldn’t need God. He calls us to do things that we think we can’t do because he wants us to lean on him and have faith in him to equip us. God doesn’t call the equipped, he equips the called.

Question: What is the one thing God has been asking you to do but you’ve been holding off because you are scared or feel unequipped?

Scriptures: Philippians 4:6-7, 2 Thessalonians 3:16, Matthew 11:28-30, 1 Peter 5:7

We live in such a fast paced and chaotic world today. The world says that we have to have all these things figured out so quickly. Some of these things could include: college, jobs, future relationships/families. Maybe it’s just a pressure to have everything figured out. It can be hard to feel at peace, when you feel like you have so many things you need to do or so many questions you need to answer. 

The Bible tells us exactly how we can find our peace!
John 16:33 says “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” 

This is Jesus talking! He is saying that yes we will have trials, but Jesus has already won the battle. No matter what we face we can find peace in the name of Jesus! We don’t have to worry about what will happen because we know Jesus has already won the war! 

When you feel stressed or anxious one of the best things you can do is just to pray and sit in His presence. God wants us to have an abundant life and that includes being at peace. 

Question: Where in your life do you need to stop worrying and lean on God?

Scriptures: Psalms 30:5, John 15:11, Philippians 4:4-13

Have you ever seen anyone that seems so joyful even in a difficult situation? Like everything seems to be going wrong, yet they are one of the most joyfilled people that you can run to? How is that possible and is that attainable for us? 

The good thing is the Bible tells us exactly how to have that kind of Joy. The Word gives us so many verses about joy and what it should be rooted in. 

Philippians 4:4 says, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.” 

Joy can be found when we face trails or storms because it’s not rooted in anything in this world. Our joy comes from Jesus!. Even when we feel like we can’t find joy in anything else we can find our joy in Jesus! Joy is a choice. We choose how to look at our situations! Let’s make the decision that, when those difficult situations do come, we are going to choose joy! 

Question: What in your life right now can you choose to be joyful about?

Scriptures: Philippians 4:10-13, Hebrews 13:5

Have you ever struggled with being unhappy with what you have? Maybe you have a pair of Apple Airpods but you saw your friend with the pros. Or maybe your mom bought you the 8 count chick-fil-a nuggets but you asked for the 12. Whatever it is, I am sure that there has been a time in your life where you have been unhappy with what you have. This is called discontentment. In the world we live in today, discontentment isn’t uncommon. We live in a fast moving world where people are always looking for the next best thing. Your phone may work perfectly, but the newest version just released and you have to have it. 

Because of how common it is, discontentment doesn’t seem to be a serious issue. However, discontentment can lead to ungratefulness, a bitter heart, frustration, and can have a negative impact on the growth of your faith – which is why the Bible talks a lot about finding contentment in our lives. In Philippians, Paul writes that he has found the secret in being content no matter the circumstances. He then proceeds to tell us that secret in Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” No, this verse isn’t about winning a basketball game, lifting 300 lbs, or running a marathon. It’s much greater than any of that! It’s about finding contentment and joy in Jesus no matter what life throws at you. Because when our contentment is tied to the never changing person of Jesus, we know that no matter what changes in our lives or how many bad breaks we might get, we serve a God who is always good and who is always on our side. 

Question: What area in your life are you most discontent in and how can you trust God with it?

Scriptures: Romans 15:13, Isaiah 40:31, Romans 8:28

Have you ever faced a situation that felt hopeless? Maybe you were struggling with a difficult subject in school, dealing with family issues, or feeling alone or misunderstood. In those moments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and feel like things are never going to get better. Can I encourage you that we have a source of hope that is far greater than any challenge we face. 

The Bible tells us in Romans 15:13, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” This verse reminds us that our hope is not dependent on our circumstances or our ability to overcome obstacles on our own. Instead, it’s rooted in the unchanging character of God, who is always faithful, loving, and powerful. 

Hope in God means trusting that He has a good plan for your life, even when you can’t see it. It means believing that He is working all things together for your good. So, when you feel like giving up, remember that you have a God who is with you, who loves you, and who promises to give you hope and a future. 

Question: In what areas of your life do you need to place your hope in God? How can you remind yourself of His promises during difficult times?

Scriptures: Ephesians 4:1-6, Romans 12:12

When I was eight, I went to the store with my granddad and saw the most amazing scooter. I begged my granddad for it. He let me ride it around the aisle and even asked me what color I liked. I was sure we would take it to the front, pay for it, and I would ride my new scooter out of the store. Then he said, “Well, it looks like you like it. Let’s wait two days; if you still want it, we will come back and get it.” Wait two days!!! That seemed like FOREVER!

We live in an instant gratification world, and waiting is not easy. We have phones that have instant access to the internet, Amazon Prime, which sometimes delivers same day, fast food that comes out in minutes, and so much more. As I look back on that day, I know my wise granddad was teaching me a crucial lesson: patience.

Being impatient can breed unpleasant things such as compromise, anxiety, discontentment, and anger. In Ephesians, Paul urges us to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (v. 1-2) God has given YOU a calling, and you cannot live a life worthy of the calling if, through impatience, you compromise; you can’t live out your calling if you are crippled with anxiety or anger. So slow down and listen so, like Paul, we can become more like Jesus through patience, loving one another in unity and peace.

Do you struggle with impatience? What two things can you start today that can bring you closer to living a life worthy of the calling God has put on your life and one that models after Christ?

Scriptures: Matthew 20:28, Romans 1:16, John 13:34, Matthew 6:33

Captaincy. An honor when it comes to teams. But, what are the qualities you think of when it comes to this role? Someone who is vocal, enthusiastic, or committed? Those might be some of the first qualities that come to mind. At least, those were all characteristics we might have experienced from people in leadership before. I initially thought the purpose was to be an authoritative leader who would do whatever it took to win. I learned that I was wrong. How did I know? The BIBLE. Jesus sets the example on the cross. The Pharisees believed the Messiah would be one who would overthrow the Roman Empire and restore Israel to its previous glory and power. But, Jesus gave up his life and humbled himself by dying on the cross. He wasn’t an authoritative leader. He was called to serve his people. His purpose was to die for us so that we might have life and life abundantly when we put our faith in him. Our purpose is to serve others and to sacrifice our needs for God’s Kingdom. Our calling comes from Jesus who tells us to share the Good News with ALL people of all cultures, communities, and people groups. We are called to be the light of the world, salt of the earth, and people who are known by our Love. How do we do this? By Following Jesus, knowing who’s we are and who we are.

Scripture: Psalms 150:1-6

Have you ever wondered why the Bible says that everything that has breath should praise the Lord? “Everything” would include all of the animals in the sea, the ones you find in jungles, the pets in your home, and it definitely includes you and me…but do you think your dog knows how to sing the words to “I Thank God“? The last time I checked, animals don’t talk, but the Bible says that EVERYTHING that has breath should praise the Lord. Can you really praise and worship Jesus without singing? 

The answer is yes. 

It’s easy for us to get wrapped up in thinking that worship unto God looks a certain way. Maybe you don’t plan an instrument, so you don’t know how you can participate in worshiping God. Maybe you don’t love how your voice sounds when you sing out loud, so you think you’re better off not singing at all. But here’s the truth, friend: worshiping God isn’t about you, how you sound, or what people think of you when you’re doing it. In fact, here’s what I want you to know about worship: 

1. Worship isn’t a song; it’s a lifestyle.
2. Worship isn’t something to be “good” at; it’s something to be obedient with. 

When we worship God, we are simply being obedient to respond to His power and goodness with a grateful and humble heart. 

So remember that when you pray, you’re worshiping God. When you tell people about Jesus, you’re worshiping God. When you take care of your heart and mind, you’re worshiping God. When you read your Bible, you’re worshiping God. When you encourage your sibling, you’re worshiping God. When you show a stranger kindness, you’re worshiping God.

Scriptures: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, Hebrews 4:16, Psalms 91

When do you find yourself the quietest? Is it right when you wake up and are getting ready for the day? Or is it during the car ride to school? Maybe it’s while you’re at your locker, gathering your stuff, or while you’re getting ready for your sport. Or maybe it’s right before bed, as you’re brushing your teeth and getting ready to rest. In those quiet moments, where do your thoughts take you? Where does your mind just naturally drift towards? For many of us, I would say our minds don’t naturally drift towards praying in those quiet moments. Instead, they’re filled with other thoughts—our worries, fears, concerns, stressors, our negative self-thoughts. But what if in those quiet moments, our thoughts turned into prayers? 

The Apostle Paul wrote to “Pray without ceasing,” which seems almost counterintuitive. To pray nonstop means almost like we’re constantly talking to God, right? Yes! That’s exactly the point. When we have those quiet moments, and we know our thoughts are drifting, we have the ability to shift our thoughts of stress or negativity and bring them to God. I’ve heard prayer defined as this: it’s an open admission that without Christ, we can do nothing; it’s an expression of faith in God’s power. The writer of Hebrews shares that we can come confidently to the throne of Christ knowing we will be met with God’s mercy and grace. So in these quiet moments, begin to pray, pour out your worries and your concerns, because God will meet you there every time. 

Consider your quiet moments. Do you naturally turn your thoughts into prayers? If not, how could you start?

Scriptures: Psalms 119:30, Ephesians 6:1-3, John 14

Throughout our lives we always hear that we need to obey. Whether that’s by our parents, our teachers, the government, and so many other areas in our lives. Then the Bible comes and says to obey God also? Is that important too? 

John 14:15 says, ““If you love me, you will keep my commandments.” 

This is Jesus talking, and he is saying that if we love God then we should obey Him. Not only should we obey Him, but we should want to obey Him! If I asked you if you wanted to live your best life – the most fulfilled, amazing, content, and blessed life you can ever imagine – we get that life by obeying God and His commandments. 

Question: Over this next week, what is one way you can obey God?

Scriptures: James 1:5, James 3:13-18, Proverbs 1

What if I told you there’s a prayer you can pray that’s guaranteed to get answered? Sounds too good to be true? It’s not. The promise is in black and white on the pages of your Bible: 

‘If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.‘ – James 1:5 NIV 

“It will be given to you.” What a promise! Even more accessible than answers on Google and articles on Wikipedia, we are promised God’s wisdom if we will just ask! 

I wonder how many difficult situations or painful problems we could have avoided had we taken God up on that offer. Ouch! 

But why do we need God’s wisdom anyway? 

Because God is infinite and we are finite. He sees the whole puzzle while we just see the pieces. 

Because God is holy and we are sinful. God knows the right things to do while our decision-making is easily clouded by our sinful nature and motives. 

Because God knows what’s best for us and we do not. What makes sense to us may not be the best in the long run. God will give you the wisdom to discern the difference. 

Take a minute right now to ask God for the wisdom you need to make the right decisions regarding life, relationships, and the future. Then keep asking every day. He promises to give it!

Scriptures: Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 9:27, Hebrews 12:11

Last day of the plan! Being consistent in the Word of God is one of the best things we can do to continue to grow closer to God. Don’t let it stop here! Find another plan or start reading the word on your own. Just don’t stop! 

Of course you won’t always want to read the Bible. It’ll always be easier to scroll on Social Media or to get a couple extra minutes of sleep everyday. We have to know and hold tight to the truths that our found in God’s Word. We have read about how God’s Word can and will transform your life, but we can’t hold to that truth if we’re not reading and learning what the truth is. 

Romans 12:2 says, “And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God” 

One of the ways to renew our mind is to dive into His Word, and we will be transformed! We must discipline ourselves to get into the Word of God. I’m not talking about punishing yourself, but training yourself to do something consistently or habitually. Our lives won’t be transformed without some intention behind it. You don’t transform into the person God wants you to be by accident. It takes diligence and effort, but it’s always worth it in the end! Keep diving into His Word and watch how He transforms you!