Sunday, February 2, 2014

Man Up Day 2

When we go through hard times, it’s easy to feel that God has left us. Here, we see that we can lead our families, friends, and communities with absolute knowledge that God is with us wherever we go. Just because times are hard doesn’t mean God is not at work. Our circumstances don’t define God. Therefore, we have no reason to be afraid – if the God who created Heaven and Earth is on our side, nothing can stop us. In fact, God commands us to be strong and courageous – it’s not a choice. Obey God in your courage.
Practical Steps: 1.) This week, begin every morning by simply saying; “I know that God is with me, regardless of my circumstances.” 2.) This week, pray for courage to make Godly decisions even when He feels absent.
Joshua 1:9
Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lordthy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.

Saturday, February 1, 2014

Man Up Day 1

During this first week of our "Man Up" Devotional Series, we will focus on being men in our relationship with God.
'Act like men' – doesn’t get more blunt than that. God calls us to be men, and in this passage, shows us one aspect of being a man of God. We need to keep in mind that we are in a spiritual battle every single day (‘Be watchful’). Any day that we fail to recognize this is another day we are unprepared for an attack from the enemy. Every day is a chance to build your family, community, and church to prepare for the spiritual battle that will take place that day. We never know which day could bring catastrophe, heartache, or trouble. With that in mind, we stand firm in the faith, starting every morning strong. In this, we show our love to those around us.”
Practical Steps: 1.) One way we can prepare for spiritual battle is to ask God to bring wisdom to us – to make wise decisions in tough times. 2.) Another way we can prepare is to not shy away from reminding our family and friends that we need to stay united with each other – quarrels are the enemy’s way of dragging us apart and making us weaker. Don’t allow yourself to hold grudges over trivial things.
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
13 Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.
14 Let all your things be done with charity.