Discipleship and Spiritual Formation Devotionals
DAY 1: Does God’s presence in me really change anything?
In the midst of busy, scattered, exhausted and hurting lives we want to experience a great love with God….but how does that actually happen and what does that even look like?
“Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly.” (Matt 11:28-30 – The Message)
Transformation happens as you keep company with Jesus.
“What do you want me to do for you?”
Unforced rhythms of grace depend on something more than self-mastery and self-effort. The simple truth is that wanting to keep company with Jesus has a staying power that “shoulds” and “oughts” seldom have.
“You’re blessed when you’ve worked up a good appetite for God.
He’s the food and drink in the best meal you’ll ever eat.” (Matt 5:6 – The Message)
The very first thing Jesus asked his soon-to-be disciples was, “What do you want?” (John 1:37) He knew human desire to be an incurable black hole of opportunity. Accompany him and watch him welcome people who want something more…Look at Mark 1:40, Matt 8:34, Matt 8:25, Matt 20:21, John 4:15, Mark 9:22, and Mark 5:18
