Be hospitable

Day

Monday

Date

01-31-2011

Scripture

Hebrews 10:23-35 (BSFL*)

Translation

NIV

What God said to me

Do not waiver in what you believe. Be as faithful to Me as I am to you. Think about ways that you might demonstrate love, kindness, and encouragement to others and follow through. I will be returning soon. Do not waste the time you have left.

What I said to God

Your words from yesterday and today, as well as Your words on hospitality in recent Sunday School lessons remind me that I should strive to be more hospitable. Interacting with others is very difficult for me, as You well know. It only seems to have gotten more difficult in recent years. Being hospitable will require a great deal of dependence on You. I guess You have me right where You need me to be on this one. J Give me grace and courage to follow through.

* Scripture selection from Lifeway’s Bible Studies for Life series

Socialize

Day

Sunday

Date

01-30-2011

Scripture

Acts 2:41-47 (BSFL*)

Translation

NIV

What God said to me

My people do not have the social connection that they once did. They, in general, and you, more specifically, used to be more interested in hearing and adhering to what I have to say. And you wonder why the number of people who put their faith in Me continues to dwindle!

What I said to God

Your words are powerful – both the ones in the scripture verses for today and the ones You have spoken to me specifically. I do see that I am much more comfortable in a nonsocial setting than in a social one. But I guess You never promised me a life of comfort, did You? I can see how getting together every day with others who believe, and praising You rather than chit-chatting idly would make a significant difference in my life as a Christian. It would help me stay more focused on what is important and on following Your commands.

* Scripture selection from Lifeway’s Bible Studies for Life series

Life is Christ

Day

Saturday

Date

01-29-2011

Scripture

Phillipians 1:21-26 (BSFL*)

Translation

NIV

What God said to me

Live for Me. Die for Me. All that you do, do for Me.

What I said to God

I do truly understand Paul’s desire to leave this life behind to be with You. Life here seems to be one struggle (physical, mental, emotional, or some combination of the three) after another. Though I am ready to leave it behind, I realize that Your plan for my life may require my continued presence here. I am Yours. Use me for as long as you need me. Know that in life or in death, my desire is for You.

* Scripture selection from Lifeway’s Bible Studies for Life series

Share what you have

Day

Friday

Date

01-28-2011

Scripture

Luke 12:13-21 (BSFL*)

Translation

NIV

What God said to me

Don’t be selfish. Share with others from all that I have abundantly given you.

What I said to God

I am truly blessed. Teach me to discern where there is need for what You have given me to share.

* Scripture selection from Lifeway’s Bible Studies for Life series

Love others

Day

Thursday

Date

01-27-2011

Scripture

John 15:11-16 (BSFL*)

Translation

NIV

What God said to me

My commandment is to love others as I love you. By loving others in this way you prove that you and I are friends. I have chosen you to love others.

What I said to God

Some people are easy to love. Others…not so much. Give me grace to love others more.

* Scripture selection from Lifeway’s Bible Studies for Life series

Obedience is better than sacrifice

Day

Wednesday

Date

01-26-2011

Scripture

John 14:15-18, 27-31a (BSFL*)

Translation

NIV

What God said to me

Obedience is better than sacrifice. I want you to obey Me. Just as Jesus was obedient even to the point of death, I want you to carry out My commands for your life.

What I said to God

Wow, this is a little heavier than what I expected for the morning. Now I am wondering what I have or have not done that would cause You to have this to say to me today. Here I am. Show me the ugly details of my disobedience that I might repent and offer to You once again my devotion through my obedience.

* Scripture selection from Lifeway’s Bible Studies for Life series

Keep on going

Day

Tuesday

Date

01-25-2011

Scripture

Hebrews 12:1-2  (BSFL*)

Translation

NIV

What God said to me

Persevere. I know you are tired and ready to give up. Just remember that I have a plan for you. Try to stay focused on the joyful time we will spend together in eternity and keep going.

What I said to God

This is so funny! I am more tired than usual today and my first thought was that You would probably talk to me about that this morning. I did come very close to turning off the alarm and rolling back over. But here I am with You – dreadfully tired, but present. I do not regret the time with You, but more rest would be great. Both body and brain are functioning at less than ideal speed and accuracy so far today.

* Scripture selection from Lifeway’s Bible Studies for Life series