Represent Retreat Book

Represent 3 0 D AY S I N T H E WO R D & P R AY E R

Represent: 30 Days in the Word and Prayer

© 2020, World Impact, Inc. All Rights Reserved Copying, redistributing, and/or sale of these materials, or any unauthorized transmission, except as may be expressly permitted by the 1976 Copyright Act or in writing from the publisher is prohibited. World Impact 3701 E. 13th St. N. Wichita, Kansas 67208 Unless otherwise indicated, all Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Contributors Tina Busenitz Rev. Ryan Carter Rev. David Estrada

Pastor Shaun Estrada Pastor Heather Gates Candy Gibson Alejandro Alvarado Huertas

Karolina Nuñez Mata Pastor Cedric Nelms Monica Pennington Mirna Esquivel Perez Cindy Smith Rev. Ted Smith Pastor Robert Vasquez Ordained Minister Tshlaine Webster Editor Chris Acker

Book Design Kaitlyn Brown Candy Gibson Artwork Mark Gibson

Table ofContents

Foreword ............................................................................................ Days 1-10 ........................................................................................... When Fear Meets Faith ..................................................................... Days 11-20 ......................................................................................... Servanthood and Stinky Feet ............................................................ Days 21-30 ......................................................................................... From Desperation to Restoration ..................................................... Appendix 1 : Represent Teaching & Study Guide ........................ Appendix 2 : Information on World Impact ................................. Appendix 3 : Information on World Impact Urban Leadership Retreats ..............................................................................................

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Foreword

At World Impact, we believe the local church is the foundational element for personal life and community transformation. Our ministry training programs are designed to be affordable, accessible, and affirming of ministry calling, utilizing the “train the trainer” model. In other words, we believe that as you apply biblical principles to your own life, we want you to empower someone else. To empower someone is to help them do something. Who doesn’t need help navigating life? This is a highly undervalued function. I’m not talking about a vibrant small group program. I’m talking about authentic relationships built over long periods of time. This book is a tool to help you move towards being more empowered and to empower someone else. Christ said in Matthew 16.18, “I will build my church—” not food pantry, tutoring program, or community development enterprise— “and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” I am all for good works like the ones mentioned, yet I also believe the church being the church is an undervalued asset in our moment in history. What makes a church special? The people. A healthy church is a holy place. Holiness lies at the heart of the Christian faith. First Peter 1.16 states, “Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy” (KJB). We’re instructed to be like God—holy in everything we do. Holiness means to represent the character of God and be set apart for service by God. By doing so, we gain the privilege to influence situations for God’s glory. And here is a key understanding of holiness that I think most miss: Holiness is the way of empowerment.

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As you utilize this tool, think of the old Home Depot slogan, “You can do it, we can help.” We believe you have the gifting, talent, and ability to walk with God, and all God needs is a willing participant. It doesn’t matter what situation you may find yourself in, as that doesn’t determine your destiny. God loves and can use you. World Impact also believes strongly in mentoring. We were given a simple command by Christ to go and make disciples. It takes a mentor to help gain a proper understanding of the Bible. Don’t go through this book alone! Find someone to study the principles taught and do life together with them. I have a favorite Latin phrase that I use—Carpe Diem. It means “seize the day.” May you be blessed as you do so. Dr. Alvin Sanders President & CEO, World Impact This Book is For You One of the greatest gifts we have as believers is the ability to spend time in the presence of our Lord. God desires to spend time with us—his beloved children—but the daily pressures and seemingly endless responsibilities we face each day can prevent us from making time with him a priority. It can seem overwhelming to add ONE MORE THING to our already jam-packed lives. Sisters and Brothers, we invite you to stop and rest a minute: find a comfortable chair, grab a cup of coffee, take a moment to drop what you’re doing, and let the Lord speak to your heart. The book you hold in your hands contains thirty Scripture passages with corresponding prayers—all written by leaders and participants of the World Impact Leadership Retreats across the US.

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Each devotional is only one page long. If you are in a rush, you can do it in under five minutes. If you have more time, try meditating on the Scripture, re-reading it, and asking the Lord to show you how you can apply his Word to your life. We have also included three longer devotionals with spiritual exercises for deeper thought—using the life of the Apostle Peter as a guide. The focus of this book is representation and what it means for us to live as ambassadors of Christ. How do we live in such a way that our lives reflect the very person of Christ? We invite you to use the prayers and Scriptures to draw you deeper into a life-changing relationship with our Savior. It is only through abiding in Christ that we are truly able to represent him. We have also included a study/teaching outline in the appendices section of this book for those who would like to go deeper into this theme. Our hope and prayer is that this devotional will bring you closer to our Lord and Savior. Whether you have been studying the Word all your life or just a few weeks, this book is for you! Tuck this book in your work bag, purse, or car. Let it be a visual reminder that the Lord God of the Universe wants to spend time with YOU. Tina Busenitz World Impact Director of Retreats

A Word About the Apostle Peter Peter often said the wrong thing. He was rebuked by Jesus. He acted rashly. Despite his easily identifiable flaws, Christ renamed him Peter—the one he would build his church upon (Matthew 16.18). Peter was the first to confess his sins to Jesus and recognize him as the Messiah.

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He would later go on to lay the foundation of the early church. In Peter, we see ourselves. We identify with his humanness. We empathize with him when he denied Christ on the eve of his crucifixion because we too have denied Jesus. Like Peter, we receive comfort and restoration from the Savior when we mess up. By the grace of God, we see Peter become “the rock” Jesus said he would become. By the time we catch up with him in the book of Acts, he is no longer concerned with personal glory and a savior who would sit on an earthly throne. We see a man who preaches Christ above all else. He is Kingdom-minded and his words and actions reflect that. The transformation we witness in Peter is a direct result of his close relationship with Jesus. In a world where self-promotion is not only commonplace but expected, we see a vastly different model in the Apostle Peter. He did not have a shining resumé full of personal accomplishments. He was an uneducated fisherman, but his ministry was not about himself or his position, it was always about Christ—even unto his death. We have the honor and privilege of representing our Lord Jesus Christ in our homes, churches, workplaces, and communities. Like Peter, let us humbly serve as ambassadors of the King of Kings. “For we are the aroma of Christ to God among those who are being saved and among those who are perishing…Who is sufficient for these things? For we are not like so many, peddlers of God’s word, but as men [and women] of sincerity, as commissioned by God…” 2 Corinthians 2.15, 16b-17.

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Represent 3 0 D AY S I N T H E WO R D & P R AY E R

Day 1

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation; that is, in Christ God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting their trespasses against them, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation. Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5.17-20 O sovereign Father, creator of heaven, earth and all of existence, I come before you recognizing you as my God and Lord. Eternal God, thank you for the perfect sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross, giving us the opportunity to be your children and new creatures who can leave our past behind and keep moving forward. Father, teach us, help us to truly value your sacrifice and truthfully live as ambassadors of your Kingdom here on earth. You are our strength. In the name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

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Day 2

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing.” 1 Peter 3.8-9 Powerful and marvelous God, I come before you knowing that you are my God, without you I am nothing, and without your help I cannot do anything. Lord help us live according to your will. Help us understand that we are all brothers and sisters who are not here to compete with one another but to love and help each other. Dear God, please take away all ego and selfishness, and help me put my brothers and sisters before myself. I pray that our desire is to be a blessing to somebody each and every day of our lives. In your holy name, I pray. Amen.

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Day 3

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “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 revealed from faith for faith, as it is written, ‘The righteous shall live by faith.’” Romans 1.16-17 Dear Heavenly Father, I come to you in the powerful name of Jesus. I thank you for the Gospel, the good news that makes us free. And I give you praise because Jesus’ work on the cross is as powerful today as it has always been. Therefore, I am not ashamed to boldly share the Gospel and bring about your mission to see salvation come to those who will believe. Father, I thank you that your salvation is not only meant to rescue us but to also redeem us and make us right in your sight. This can only come through faith, so I ask that you help—from start to finish. I pray that I may live a righteous life in you. You are love and your intentions towards me are only good. Thank you for being a faithful God who always fulfills his promise. Amen.

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Day 4

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.” Matthew 5.14-16 Lord, may your light shine in the darkness. May we, your people, be the bright spot in a hopeless time. May your light radiate through us and attract those who need comfort, love, truth, and salvation. May your love generate good works, kindness, and joy that bring glory to your name. Amen.

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Day 5

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, ‘Abba! Father!’ The Spirit himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and fellow heirs with Christ, provided we suffer with him in order that we may also be glorified with him.” Romans 8.14-17 Father God, we come to you in Jesus’ name, believing when we received your Spirit we were no longer fearful slaves. Instead, we are adopted as your children. I thank you that I can now call you Father and your Spirit affirms that I am your child. Because I am your child I am an heir of your glory with Christ. Yet, your Word tells us, if we share in Christ’s glory we must also share in his suffering. Help me endure and develop a deep resolve to follow Christ no matter my present circumstances. Help me to follow as I’m led by your Spirit. I can always be confident you are a perfect guide who will protect and provide wherever you take me. Thank you for always being a good Father. Amen.

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Day 6

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober- minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. As obedient children, do not be conformed to the passions of your former ignorance, but as he who called you is holy, you also be holy in all your conduct…” 1 Peter 1.13-15 Dear Lord, I am so thankful that you have the “blueprints” for my life! You have a path for me to walk and you have lit that path and have called me to action! God help me to fix my eyes on your will and to not get tired or lose sight of what you have called me to do. Lord, give me self-control in times that I normally would revert back to my old ways of living. Help my desires to be your desires! Thank you for growing me and maturing me in your Word. Lord I pray that I may glorify you in all that I do. Amen.

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Day 7

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” Romans 12.1-2 Heavenly Father, I thank you for the love and mercy you have given me. I thank you for the forgiveness of my sins and for the gift of eternal life through your Son Jesus Christ. I pray that you will guide me each and every day of my life. May I not conform to the patterns of this world, but may I be transformed by the renewing of my mind. May I always offer myself as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to you. Let this be my spiritual act of worship to you, O Lord! May you always be honored and glorified, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Day 8

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “And I tell you, everyone who acknowledges me before men, the Son of Man also will acknowledge before the angels of God, but the one who denies me before men will be denied before the angels of God.” Luke 12.8-9 Father, I seek to endorse you in all my actions. May my lips speak the truth of your Lordship. May my actions proclaim your love.

May my words be bold and holy. May my heart be yours always. And your name my first thought So that I am known by you. So that you are known to the world through me. Amen.

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Day 9

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Brothers, I do not consider that I have made it my own. But one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 3.13-14 Dear Lord, thank you for my salvation! Thank you that I can live into the present without fear or guilt of my past. Help me to continue on as a child of the King with my head held high walking into whatever you have for me—knowing ultimately that I will sit at your feet in heaven and praise your holy name! Amen.

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Day 10

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, ‘If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.’” John 8.31-32 Holy loving Father, thank you for all the mercies you have bestowed on me. I thank you for your Son, Jesus Christ and the sacrifice he made for me so that I may enter your presence freely each and every day. Give me discernment by your Spirit as I seek to put your will into practice daily in my life. Help me to be an example to others by showing your love through my life. May you be my guide as I bring others close to you. I pray we will know the truth and the truth will set us free. Amen.

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Notes Now that you’ve completed the first 10 days, take a few minutes to reflect on what God has been teaching you. What Scripture passage(s) stood out to you? How will you apply what you’ve learned?

WhenFearMeets Faith Read Matthew 14.22-33

Peter’s heart pounds in his chest as he takes that first tentative step out of the boat. He sees Jesus in the distance—standing on the water. Carefully, he begins to walk—his eyes focused on the Savior’s face—but then he hears the whip of the wind and feels it pull on his cloak, and he takes his eyes off Jesus. He looks down at the waves and a sudden fear grips him. Terrified, he begins to sink into the dark water. That’s the thing about fear—once you are in its grip, you feel powerless to do anything. Perspective is everything. When Peter’s eyes were on Jesus, he wasn’t worried about drowning. The moment he looked down, he was seized with fear. When our focus is on our circumstances, we let fear determine what we see. Thankfully, we serve a Savior who understands our weaknesses. He knows that we are easily distracted and overwhelmed, and he is there to rescue us when, like Peter, we cry out to him. Faith comes when we are face to face with our fear. It is when we are confronted with the storms of life that we are able to walk in faith. In the book, A Fragile Stone , the author says of Peter: “The lesson is that Peter needed to sink in order to take the next step of faith. Because walking on water does not increase our faith, only sinking does!” 1 Perhaps you are encountering a storm in your life. Maybe you find it hard to fix your eyes upon Jesus because the waves are too big and the wind is too strong. Be encouraged that the same Jesus who reached down and saved Peter, is still reaching down to rescue us— his beloved children. 1 Michael Card, A Fragile Stone: The Emotional Life of Simon Peter (Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity Press, 2003), 53 21

Take a few minutes and meditate on this hymn: “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” O soul, are you weary and troubled? No light in the darkness you see? There’s light for a look at the Savior, And life more abundant and free. Turn your eyes upon Jesus, Look full in His wonderful face, And the things of earth will grow strangely dim, In the light of His glory and grace. Exercise:

Take a moment and write down what is currently worrying you or causing you to be fearful. Pray over your list and give each worry to Christ. Then, pray the following prayer which is based on Philippians 4.6-7. Dear Father, help me not be anxious about anything—because I know you are in control of everything. Help me to remember to come to you with my requests instead of trying to solve everything on my own. Thank you for the many ways you have blessed me—I can look back and see your hand upon my life. I humbly ask for your peace, which surpasses all understanding. Please guard my heart and keep my mind focused on you. Amen. Now what? Take what you’ve learned and apply it to your community! Community Connection: Take some time to walk around your community where your church or ministry is located. Begin to write down what you see: what is the state of the buildings, parks, houses, apartments, etc. Do you see what God sees, or do you see things through eyes of fear? For those areas that cause fear in your heart, pray for God to increase your faith. 22

Day 11

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord! Blessed are those who keep his testimonies, who see him with their whole heart, who also do no wrong, but walk in his ways!” Psalm 119.1-3 Dear Father, I long to walk in your ways but I confess that I often get lost. I give in to selfish desires and find myself only half- heartedly following you. Father, I want to know you and your ways! I want your desires to be my desires! Lord, give me a passion to be in your Word. Help me to obey what you have called me to do, and when I fall, give me the strength to get up again and commit myself to your ways. Amen.

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Day 12

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander. Like newborn infants, long for the pure spiritual milk, that by it you may grow up into salvation if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.” 1 Peter 2.1-3 Dear Father, I confess that I have said and thought things about others that were full of jealousy, anger, and bitterness. I know that if I am to truly represent you in thought and deed, I need to renew my mind. I need to fill up on spiritual food, your Word. Your Word is full of life and light. Psalm 119.103 says, “How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Help me, Lord, to get rid of things in my life that cause me sin. Create in me a desire to feed on your Word and meditate on your truths. Amen.

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Day 13

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.” Hebrews 12.1-3 Lord Jesus, we come before your presence trusting and knowing that we are not alone. We know we are encompassed by a great cloud of witnesses. Please help us let go of all the sin that surrounds us, the sin that doesn’t allow us to be filled with you. May we continue this path with our eyes focused on you, the author and finisher of our faith. We know you sit at the right hand of the Father. I ask that our faith increases in order to keep moving forward. May your strength be perfected in our weakness, Father. By faith, I believe and receive it in the name of Jesus. Amen.

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Day 14

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. Resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same kinds of suffering are being experienced by your brotherhood throughout the world.” 1 Peter 5.8-9 Heavenly Father and Great God, we come before you, asking that you give us the desire to seek you in prayer, fasting, and Bible study. We understand that having a firm grip on you is the only way to resist our adversary, the devil, who is always trying to see who he can devour. Help us resist and reaffirm ourselves in faith. I pray this for our dear brothers and sisters who suffer with us all around the world. Please take care of us, Jesus. Amen.

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Day 15

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “But that is not the way you learned Christ!—assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.” Ephesians 4.20-24 Father, your love overwhelms me. Thank you for choosing me and using me to share your love. Teach me to walk in your goodness and grace. Lord as I abide in you, I trust you to guide my life in the direction that will produce fruit that will remain for your glory and honor. Amen.

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Day 16

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “But whatever gain I had, I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ and be found in him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law, but that which comes through faith in Christ, the righteousness from God that depends on faith that I may know him and the power of his resurrection, and may share his sufferings, becoming like him in his death, that by any means possible I may attain the resurrection from the dead.” Philippians 3.7-11 Dear Heavenly Father, I realize it is a great privilege to represent you. Help me to see that any earthly things I may acquire (money, power, notoriety, relationships, security) are garbage compared to knowing you as my Savior. Through faith in you, I am no longer a slave to sin but I am clothed in your righteousness. Thank you for allowing me to be an ambassador for you. I know that by serving you, I am called to sacrifice and even suffer for your name. I pray that through my suffering, I may come to know you more deeply. Knowing you is the greatest gift I will ever receive. Help me to live a life worthy of your calling. Amen.

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Day 17

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide, so that whatever you ask the Father in my name, he may give it to you.” John 15.16 Lord God, creator of all things, thank you for this new day filled with grace and brand new mercy. Father, you know my thoughts. Take over my mind with your truth. The struggles of life want to consume me and tempt me with my old way of thinking and living. You, O Lord, have the power to make all things new. Renew my mind. Refresh my spirit. Wrap me with new garments of righteousness and holiness. This is the day that you have made, Lord, and I will rejoice and be glad in it. Amen.

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Day 18

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “And he said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: you shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22.37-39 Dear Father, all the commandments are fulfilled in one word and that is, love. O Lord, your love has filled the seas, land, air, and all creatures large and small. By the treacherous deception of our enemy Satan, and our hearts, we have been separated from your love, yet Christ Jesus has destroyed the barrier of lies and made a straight way for us to see clearly. We now love you with all our hearts: the heart that is broken, the heart that is full of life, the heart that beats the first time, and the heart that finishes the race here on earth. We now love you with all of our soul, the soul who now mingles intimately with your Holy Spirit, being carried through life’s storms and sunny days. We now love you with all of our minds, the mind exploring your Word and your ways from sunrise to sunset. Amen.

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Day 19

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit.” Galatians 5.22-25 Spirit of the Living God, thank you for the bounty of your harvest. As laborers of the kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ we carry your fruit in the city. We will share love on each table we assemble around. Joy will spill from our barrels as we quench the thirst of children playing in the streets. Peace will become our shield in times of riot, turmoil, and outcry. Forbearance will be our teacher in times of uncertainty and confusion. We will not ignore the kindness you display every day to loved ones and strangers. We will give you glory for the tenderness that wipes away tears. You are faithful to each generation; we will take our stand on each corner of the city. Help us display the gentle mercy you have poured out on the cross. As soldiers in your care Lord, we submit to your control. Amen.

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Day 20

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “For this very reason, make every effort to supplement your faith with virtue, and virtue with knowledge, and knowledge with self-control, and self-control with steadfastness, and steadfastness with godliness, and godliness with brotherly affection, and brotherly affection with love. For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they keep you from being ineffective or unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1.5-8 Our Heavenly Father, we thank you for the provision you have prepared for us. We are your children who seek your holy wisdom in order to grow strong in the faith by submitting to you and only you. We wish to give you praise and honor by declaring to the world through our actions (in faith) of the knowledge that everything comes from you. Dear Father, it is your Holy Spirit which helps us to do good and not evil, for it is through your Spirit that we can achieve self-control. When we learn to wait on your Holy Spirit’s guidance, we are able to persevere regardless of the challenges and the battles we encounter in this world. May we continue to grow in the love given to us by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in order to serve you, our church, our community and our fellow brothers and sisters. May the glory be yours forever. Amen.

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Notes Pick a Scripture passage from the past 10 devotionals and write your own prayer to God. There is no wrong way to do it!

Servanthood and StinkyFeet Read John 13.1-11 & Luke 22.24-27 Imagine you have walked miles along dusty roads. Not only that, but you are wearing sandals—your feet exposed to dust, dirty water, and other debris. In the time of Jesus, this was a daily reality. Most households had a servant who would wash the feet of visiting guests. This would have been considered a lowly position—no glamor or honor in washing stinky feet. Yet, here we see the Son of God taking on the role of a servant. What he did wasn’t just strange, it was unthinkable. As a teacher, he would have been above such tasks. Peter is shocked by this display—it goes against every cultural norm. In fact, the inappropriateness of it all caused Peter to exclaim, “You will never wash my feet!” But Jesus made it very clear that, unless he washed Peter’s feet, he would have no place with him. Peter learns that if he is to be a true disciple of Christ, he must submit to who Jesus really is—a humble servant who does the will of his Father. You see, Jesus is modeling for the disciples what true servant leadership is about. It is not about earthly glory. It isn’t about occupying a position of great honor and having others wait on you. He is calling his disciples to humility—to be servants. Talk about an upside-down Kingdom! The Son of God washing dirty feet and commanding that they too be such servants. It was a revolutionary way of thinking then, and it is still revolutionary today. A young man who recently joined a church approached his pastor one Sunday and asked how he could serve in the church. The pastor, gladdened to hear such things, told the man that they were in need of someone to set up the chairs each Sunday and then take them down. The man’s face fell. He had been hoping to serve in an “up front” position. How true this rings for many of us! How often do we offer to serve only if we can do it in such a way that brings glory to ourselves? 35

Sisters and brothers, if we are to be true representatives of Christ, we must learn to serve. We must be willing to serve in seen positions as well as unseen positions. We must be willing to sacrifice our pride in order to advance the Kingdom of God. Sometimes, we may be called to teaching, leading, or pastoring; other times, we may be called to advance the Kingdom of God by setting up and taking down chairs, cleaning bathrooms, or loving on the unlovable. Exercise: Take a few moments to ask God how you might better serve him: in your home, community and church. Write down what the Spirit brings to your mind. Then, pray this prayer from Saint Hildegard of Bingen: May it please you, O Lord, to enlighten my heart with the fire of your love. I offer my hands to do your work, my lips to sing your praise and my life to proclaim your glory. Look upon my neighbors in their needs and guide me and bless me as I serve you in them; for Jesus’ sake. Amen. Now what? Take what you’ve learned and apply it to your community! Community Connection: What are the areas in your community that need attention? Where would you be best suited to “wash the feet” of those that are weary from life’s journey? Angel Tree is an organization that supports the spouses and children of those who are incarcerated. There are senior living facilities that would love to have people come and spend some time with the elderly whom they house. Mentorship programs are always needed in the community. These are just some of the areas that you could be of service.

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Day 21

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children. And walk in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us, a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But sexual immorality and all impurity or covetousness must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking, which are out of place, but instead let there be thanksgiving.” Ephesians 5.1-4 Father God, grant me all I need to represent you well in the world today. May my life reflect you in every sense so that those around me will know that I am your child. Keep me in your love. Help me extend the love of Christ to those around me. Even though I often feel powerless to overcome the sinful desires that entangle me, I know that Christ has rescued me, redeemed me, and clothed me with his righteousness. Remind me, Lord, that my only task is to accept the grace you offer. Remove from me the sinful desires of my flesh and grant me the strength to live a holy life that represents your truth, love, and holiness for your glory. Amen.

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Day 22

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “But in your hearts honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” 1 Peter 3.15 Daddy—majestic and mighty you are. We honor you by honoring and adoring your Son, the Anointed One! Jesus, as our Savior, Lord, and King, we exalt your Holy Name! Because you are the center and focus of our whole hearts, we follow your lead as we share the good news with everyone who seeks to know and understand this hope and assurance that consumes our lives. May we glow with an illuminating light as we gently and respectfully invite others to come see you. May the love and honor we have for you drip off of us like honey and cause the masses to “Come, taste and see that the Lord, Jesus Christ, is good!” In your unshakeable name, we pray. Amen.

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Day 23

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.” Ephesians 2.10 Holy Lord, thank you for being our creator and maker. Father, as we crawl up into your lap and feel your arms and your lavish love wrapped around us, we praise you! For you are the ultimate artist and we are your masterpiece. Even as we allowed your perfect work to get stained with sin, you provided a way for us to be restored and even made new through your precious son, Jesus. Because of your beautiful grace, we can do the many good things you planned for us so long ago. Let us remember this and not take this gift for granted. It is all for your glory! Amen.

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Day 24

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self- control. Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God.” 2 Timothy 1.7-8 Father God, strong and mighty, we say thank you. Thank you for your Son. Thank you for being our Strong Tower. Thank you for a mind that is sound. Thank you for your great love that never leaves us bound. Thank you for the struggles that help us to grow. Thank you for teaching us self-control. Thank you for putting your “super” on our “natural,” as the Holy Spirit infuses us with power to endure in the face of opposition, ridicule, prejudice, and even danger. Thank you that we can share the Gospel fearlessly as we stand in love, unashamed to boldly proclaim that Jesus is Lord. Thank you for the message of hope, even in the midst of our suffering. Thank you that we can boldly declare that the power that lives in us is INVINCIBLE! Thank you, Jesus. Amen. Thank you for the Holy One. Thank you for much power. Thank you for the message that makes us free. Thank you, Father, that we choose to believe!

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Day 25

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.” Ephesians 4.1-3 Our Father and our King, what a privilege it is to know you and even more to be able to serve you. Please Lord, may we live a life worthy of the calling you have blessed us with. What could be more important? Realizing this, help us to honor you by always living with humble and gentle hearts. Give us patience and tolerance to bear each other’s faults, because we are rich in your love. There is no better life to live. Father may we remain strong in your spirit, committed to the peace of Christ, as we live and serve together. May it be only for your glory. You are worthy! Amen.

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Day 26

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Put on then, as God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. And above all these put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” Colossians 3.12-14 Father God, thank you for your sovereignty and your grace. Thank you, Lord, for forgiving us when we were yet in our sin. As we came to you in our attitude of repentance, you didn’t leave us in that state of mind. You redeemed us and for that we say thank you, Lord. Father God, continue to dress us daily with compassion, kindness, meekness, and patience. Lord, please continue to be the compass of our hearts showing us that since you have forgiven us, teach us how to forgive ourselves and those that have trespassed against us in society. In Jesus name, we pray. Amen.

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Day 27

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” 1 Peter 2.9 Heavenly Father, thank you for your light. Lord, we love you for saving us from the darkness and ushering us into being a community of people that are part of a greater family. Lord, continue to refine us to be the people that you created us to be, people of royalty and people that were chosen to be your representatives in this world. For that, Lord, we say thank you! It is in Jesus’ name that we pray. Amen.

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Day 28

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” I Thessalonians 5.16-22 Dear Heavenly Father, I come before you with a grateful heart. Thank you for always being with me and helping me through each and every struggle I face. When I am tempted to despair, help me to pray. When my mind is overwhelmed, help me to pray. When my life is full of blessings, help me to pray. By your power, may I be a pray warrior for you. As I commit my life to prayer, help me to hold fast to your Word—that I might serve and obey you in all I do. Amen.

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Day 29

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: you shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Galatians 5.13-14 Dear Heavenly Father, I confess that at times it is hard to love my fellow sisters and brothers. I confess the times I have said or thought things toward others that are not loving or kind. Help me to show your love and mercy to everyone I encounter. Thank you for loving me even when I am sinful and selfish. Grant me the power, through your Spirit, to love others as you have loved me. I praise you and thank you for your unconditional love. Amen.

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Day 30

Take a moment and pray before reading the following passage. Pray that God will open your heart and mind to the truth of his Word. If you have time, read the passage more than once—underlining things that stand out to you. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm.” Ephesians 6.10-13 Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done. On earth as it is in heaven. We thank you for giving us salvation through your Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Thank you for giving us the provision of the Holy Spirit, who dwells in us and guides us through our struggles in our lives. We thank you for allowing us to wear the armor of faith by which we can stand firm against the evil of this world. Furthermore, it is when we trust in the victory of our Lord and Savior on the cross that we can understand that it is not by our power or strength but it is by your Holy Word and your Holy Spirit. And, if you are with us, who will be against us? May the glory and praise be yours and yours only for ever and ever. Amen.

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Notes Now that you have finished reading the devotionals, in what areas of your life do you need to represent Christ more? At work? In your home? With your friends?

FromDesperation toRestoration Read Matthew 26.30-35, 69-75 & John 21.15-19 Often, we strive to be faithful but feel like we failed. We take a wrong turn and it seems like all is lost. The Christian journey is hard and there are times when we hit rock bottom. But no sin is too great for the Savior. He is there—ready and waiting to offer forgiveness and restoration. Peter knew what it felt like to be completely and utterly broken. We see in each of the four Gospels the account of Peter denying Jesus three times—just as Jesus predicted. When the cock crowed for the third time, we witness his deep sorrow and desperation as he weeps. He realizes what he has done, and his heart is broken. Have you ever come to the end of yourself? Have you cried out to God in utter desperation? At times like that, we are tempted to believe that restoration and forgiveness are not possible—we have fallen too far down. But then we see the encounter with Peter and Jesus after he has risen from the grave. He is not angry with Peter nor does he condemn him. Instead, he asks him three times if he loves him. Each time, Peter replies yes. And each time Jesus responds, “Then feed my sheep.” His painful questions are a creative means to bring restoration to Peter. Once again Jesus is modeling to Peter and the disciples that the forgiveness he commanded them to show others he is now showing them. Those who have been forgiven much will also love much. When Christ restores us, he also calls us to something new. He called Peter to be a shepherd for his flock. Out of brokenness, something new was birthed in Peter. The same is true for us. 49