Jesus teaches us to pray boldly and persistently, like an annoying neighbor at midnight. What door do you need to start knocking on again?
Monday: The Practice of Knocking on Wood
Scripture: Acts 17:22-23
Devotional: Many of us have engaged in practices like knocking on wood or carrying good luck charms. These actions, rooted in superstition, give us an illusion of control over our circumstances. In Acts 17, Paul addresses the Athenians who were "very religious" and had an altar to an "unknown god." Our natural inclination to seek control demonstrates our desire for assurance and security.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you ever relied on superstitions for comfort or assurance? Why do you think that was?
- How can you shift from seeking control to trusting God with your uncertainties?
Additional Scripture: Proverbs 3:5-6
Tuesday: Knocking on God's Door
Scripture: Luke 11:5-10
Devotional: Instead of turning to superstition, Jesus invites us to knock on God's door with persistence. The story in Luke 11 reminds us to be like the friend who knocks at midnight, confident in asking for help. This is not about mere persistence; it's about bold faith.
Reflection Questions:
- What does it mean to you to "knock on God's door"?
- How can persistent prayer transform your relationship with God?
Additional Scripture: Matthew 7:7-8
Wednesday: Learning to Pray
Scripture: Luke 11:1-4
Devotional: Just as the disciples asked Jesus to teach them to pray, prayer is something we learn. Jesus responds with what we know as the Lord's Prayer, a model that emphasizes God's holiness, provision, forgiveness and deliverance.
Reflection Questions:
- What part of the Lord’s Prayer resonates with you most, and why?
- How have you seen your ability or inclination to pray change over time?
Additional Scripture: Romans 8:26-27
Thursday: The Attitude of Prayer
Scripture: James 5:13-16
Devotional: Jesus taught us that prayer is more than words; it is about attitude. An attitude of boldness, persistence and faith characterizes true prayer. James emphasizes the importance of praying fervently and righteously, assuring us that such prayers are powerful.
Reflection Questions:
- How would you describe your current attitude towards prayer?
- What steps can you take to align your prayer attitude with the teachings of Jesus?
Additional Scripture: Philippians 4:6-7
Friday: Keep Knocking
Scripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Devotional: The encouragement to "keep knocking" emphasizes continuous and expectant prayer. Trust that God hears you and cares for you, even when answers seem delayed. Paul’s exhortation to pray without ceasing and give thanks in all circumstances emphasizes persistent communication with God.
Reflection Questions:
- What have you stopped praying for because you felt discouraged or unheard?
- How can you reinvigorate your prayer life and faith, trusting that God's timing and will are perfect?
Additional Scripture: Luke 18:1-8
No comments:
Post a Comment