in the word | week of Dec. 20th

Posted by sdouglas on December 22, 2009

Day 1: Read 2 Corinthians 9:15 & Matthew 1:20-21

Sit quietly and clear your mind of all of the things you’ve yet to do to prepare for Christmas. Say 2 Corinthians 9:15 aloud several times. Determine today that your relationship with the Lord will take priority over EVERYTHING else. Take time to think of how you have typically prioritized your life. What changes need to take place so that the Lord is always first place?

Day 2: Read Romans 6:22-23

After reading these verses several times, write them in your own words. This Good News says that you are free from the penalty of sin because of Jesus. What benefits do you receive? Praise God for his indescribable gift! Journal your thoughts.

Day 3: Read Romans 6:11-14

More Good News! You do not have to sin. Offer yourself to God! What does this look like in your everyday life?  How will you “reign in your mortal body”? Scripture says that we have a choice. Journal your thoughts.

Day 4: Read Romans 6:6-7

If you have a relationship with Jesus, then the “old self was crucified with him” which means you have a new self. What do you hope this new self will be like next year? What does the Lord want you to do with this new self? What will your priorities be? Journal your thoughts.

Day 5: Read 2 Corinthians 9:1-14

After reading the Scripture several times, create two columns in your journal. Title one How I Respond and the other Why I Respond. List under each one what you found in the Scripture. End your time with a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord for giving the Indescribable Gift.

Day 6: Read Philippians 2:1-11 in The Message

This Scripture gives us examples of many ways to keep our priorities in focus. As you read, make a list of the practical ways to show glory to God in our everyday lives. Merry Christmas!