365 devo guide

3 minutes in worship6 minutes in the word5 minutes in prayer

“Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out.

You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met.”

Matthew 6:33, MSG

28-DAY DEVOTIONAL GUIDEEvery year, the majority of us make a list of resolutions that seem to disappear by the third

month of the year. Somehow, we loose the momentum to push forward with the many things

we want to change in the New Year. This year, it will be different.

Through this devotional, we want to move beyond resolutions into lifestyle. We are going

to explore four lifestyle changes that will position us for 365 days of fulfillment, growth, and

impact.

The goal of the 365 Devotional is to kick start your year with a “God First” attitude. Allow God

to be first in all of your actions, thoughts, decisions, and efforts. Let Him direct you, which in

turn, will bring success to all you do. Let’s start the year this way consistently for 28 days; it

will surely become a part of every day life.

When we engage God through prayer and bible reading, we experience a continuation of

His very presence. This action draws us closer to Him and positions us to live out a fulfilling

year!

What you read, pray, and do should be very personal to you; a personal devotion to God.

-noun

1. The act of making room for God to speak to us through His Word.

2. Listening for God’s voice (vital to experiencing a God-first life.)

-verb

1. Reading the Word and discovering the character of God, then applying Scriptures in real-time.

DEVOTIONPERSONAL

LIVE 365 PRAYER@11amThursday’s lunch hour from 11AM – 1PM at the i5 CHURCH Campus will be a time of

prayer and worship. Join us on your lunch break as we make time to seek God.

In the book of Daniel, we find two different times where Daniel fasted. In Chapter 1, he only ate vegetables and drank water. In Chapter 10, while it doesn’t state what specific diet he was on, it does state he ate no rich (choice) foods, as well as no meat or wine. Based on these two scenarios, we can say that either of these, or combinations of them, constitutes a Daniel Fast.

It is important to know that there is nothing inherently more spiritual about one type of fast over the other. It is an intentional decision to deny yourself of pleasure in order to concentrate and focus on God’s word, prayer and worship.

Over the next 28 days, as a church, we are going to be fasting and praying for the areas of the world we have impact in. Currently we are in communities in South America, Asia, Africa and even here in the US. During this time we are going to restrict our diets to staple foods in these countries.

WHAT IS A DANIEL FAST?

Our food menu is going to be:

■ Rice■ Beans■ Vegetables■ Fish

This means, the following foods are discouraged:

■ All meat and animal products including, but not limited to, beef, lamb, pork, and poultry.

■ All dairy products including but not limited to, milk, cheese, cream, butter, and eggs.

■ All sweeteners including, but not limited to, sugar, raw sugar, honey, syrups, molasses, and cane juice.

■ All leavened bread including Ezekiel Bread (it contains yeast and honey) and baked goods.

■ All refined and processed food products including but not limited to artificial flavorings, food additives, chemicals, white flour, and foods that contain artificial preservatives.

■ All deep fried foods including but not limited to potato chips, French fries, corn chips.

■ All solid fats including shortening, margarine, lard and foods high in fat.

■ Beverages including but not limited to coffee, tea, herbal teas, carbonated beverages, energy drinks, and alcohol.

NOTE■ If you have a medical condition that restricts you, talk to your doctor and make sure you are cleared for this.

■ Should you decide you want a more intensive fast, feel free to adapt our recommendation to suite your needs. For example, you could decide to do a dry fast all day and end with just water, juice or a small meal.

HELPFUL FASTING TIPS:

■ Keep your fridge and pantry stocked with the items you need.

■ Keep tempting foods out of sight and out of reach.

■ If you are fasting with friends and family, you may want to discuss the devotional, Sunday messages or what God showed you as a group.

■ Don’t get discouraged if you mess up. God’s mercies are new every morning (Lam. 3:22-23). God wants you to finish, and He will give you the grace to.

FASTING GUIDE

Fruits, Vegetables, Juices and Water

Breakfast Fruit smoothie with whey protein

Mid-morning Snack Fresh fruit or fresh vegetables

Lunch Raw vegetable salad with light, organic dressing

and vegetable broth soup

Mid-afternoon Snack Fresh fruit or fresh vegetables

Dinner Fresh salad with light, organic dressing and

steamed or grilled vegetables

WaterDrink plenty of water - at least 100 ounces

No meat

Modified Daniel Fast

Breakfast 1-2 servings whole grains

with fresh fruit juice

Mid-morning Snack Fresh fruit or fresh chopped vegetables

Lunch 1-2 servings whole grains, fresh salad with

legumes and light organic dressing

Mid-afternoon Snack Fresh fruit juice or fruit smoothie

with whey protein

Dinner 1-2 whole grains: fresh salad with legumes &

light, organic dressing

WaterDrink plenty of water - at least 100 ounces

Fish or chicken, grilled or baked

Daniel Fast Sample Menu:

SHARE YOURSTORY

LIVE YOUR DREAMSPARTNER WITH US

During this series, your 365 story can inspire others. Share your story with us and let’s partner to come alive in 365. Tag your post and pictures on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram with #LIVE365

You can also send them to us at i5church.com/365

#LIVE365

A great, simple way to journal your devotions is to use the SOAP method.*

We encourage you to read the passages and prepare your own SOAP in addition to what has been provided. God will definitely reveal himself and his purposes to you—He is eager to.

Our prayer for you over the

next 28 days is that your passion for God and His word will be ignited, and that you will develop a heart that captures and lives God’s dreams for you.

As you read these daily devotionals, keep in mind the following three things:

■ Read daily

■ Read prayerfully

■ Read expectantly

SOAP stands for:

Scripture Read the daily passage and then identify a scripture from the passage that stands out to you.

Observation Focus on that scripture and ask the Holy Spirit to show you what God is saying.

Application How does this apply to your life right now?

Prayer Thank God for revealing His truths to you. Remember, prayer is a two-way conversation, so listen for what God wants to say to you.

*Author Wayne Cordeiro

OAP

S

Prayer

WEEK ONE PRAYER FOCUS

UNITED STATESPray for our missions to the Native American reservations.

Pray for churches we partner with across the United States.

If you are interested please sign up for Native American reservation missions trip.

For more information on weekly volunteer opportunities visit BeThe5.com

DAY 1 ❏

SEE IT FOR YOURSELF

“Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!” Psalm 34:8 (NLT)

You’ve heard the popular saying, “The proof is in the pudding.” It means in order to experience something really; you have to try it for yourself. So, imagine that you are out to eat with a friend and they order something you have never heard of from the menu, but they assure you it is incredibly tasty. When the food arrives, you immediately investigate your

friend’s meal with your senses and then they ask. “Do you want to try it?” You will not truly get the full experience of what they ordered unless you try it.

That’s how it is with your relationship with God. No matter where you are in your relationship with Him, there are always new things to “taste” and “see”. You may be acclimated to praying the same prayer, reading the same Bible verse, or listening to the same worship song. However, God desires true relationship with YOU; a relationship that is ever growing, ever discovering, and always fulfilling.

So, are you ready to experience the proof in the God-pudding?

SCRIPTURE MEDITATION & PRAYER:

“Taste and see that the LORD is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!” Psalm 34:8 (NLT)

In your prayer time, invite God into to speak, to move in your heart and mind. Ask Him to rekindle the passion inside of you for His presence.

NOTES

DAY 2 ❏

WHAT IS PRAYER AND HOW DO I DO IT?

“Prayer is beyond any question the highest activity of the human soul. Man is at his greatest and highest when, upon his knees, he comes face to face with God.” - Dr. Martyn Loyd Jones

Prayer is where we communicate, worship, and sincerely seek God, knowing that He hears us, loves us, and will respond. What a privilege we have been given, to be able to communicate with the God of the universe!

In Matthew 6, Jesus teaches His followers what true prayer is and what it is not. You will see that He is not interested in routine, cold, detached demands, but rather heartfelt and faith-filled prayers. You can use this as a guide for when you pray.

“When you pray, don’t pour out a flood of empty words, as the Gentiles (non-believers) do. They think that by saying many words

they’ll be heard. Don’t be like them, because your Father knows what you need before you ask.

Pray like this:

Our Father, who is in heaven, – Adoration (deep love and respect)

Uphold the holiness of your name. Bring in Your kingdom so that Your will is done on earth as it’s done in heaven. – Worship (expression of reverence and adoration)

Give us the bread we need for today. –Provision (supplying all needs)

Forgive us for the ways we have wronged You – Confession (admitting of your sin)

Just as we also forgive those who have wronged us. – Intercession (praying for others)

And don’t lead us into temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. Protection (keep from harm or danger)”

Matthew 6:7-13 (CEB)

SCRIPTURE MEDITATION & PRAYER:

Now that you have more understanding of prayer put into practice what you read today. Read out loud Matthew 6:9-13. Make it personal by saying, “me” and “I”. As you become more familiar with this prayer, you can add specifics to your life and needs.

MY Father, who is in heaven, uphold the holiness of your name.

Bring in your kingdom so that your will is done on earth as it’s done in heaven.

Give ME the bread I need for today.

Forgive ME for the ways I have wronged you, just as I also forgive those who have wronged ME.

And don’t lead ME into temptation, but rescue ME from the evil one.

NOTES

DAY 3 ❏

PURSUING GOD

“As the deer pants for the water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. Where can I find him to come and stand before him?” Psalm 42:1,2

You likely have your own ideas of what comes to mind when you hear the word ROMANCE: Flowers, dates, butterflies, excitement, setting “the mood”, etc. Dare we consider our relationship with God to be somewhat of a divine romance? Jesus, Lord of all, chose us first (John 15:16), loved us first (1 John 4:19), and now, like in a romantic relationship, He desires to be chosen and loved in return.

This is where a deep, true, and lasting love is developed. As a thirsty and weary dear is searching for refreshing water, so it is with our soul. We long to be refreshed by the one who loves us most and best.

Like a childhood game of “hide and seek” the Lord found us in our sin and desperate need for Him. Now that we are in a relationship with Him, He desires to be sought. There is a thrill in being found by the one you love. In a relationship with Jesus, it’s a mutual finding, chasing and pursuing, every moment of every day.

“Proof of desire is in the pursuit.”

A.W. Tozier

SCRIPTURE MEDITATION & PRAYER

“As the deer pants for the water, so I long for you, O God. I thirst for God, the living God. Where can I find him to come and stand before him?” Psalm 42:1,

Lord Jesus, I want my pursuit of you to prove my desire to know you more. As I seek you, I pray to find you. As I ask to know you, I pray you will answer me. As I knock on the door to access you, I pray you will open that door to me. Make me a God-chaser, who longs for you and your presence.

NOTES

DAY 4 ❏

WHAT DOES PRAYER DO?

It’s very easy to be discouraged when all it seems like you can do about the situation in your life is to pray. It sounds passive, ineffective, and a lazy person’s way of handling life. You’re supposed to DO something and prayer is the “just in case this doesn’t work, I’ll talk to God real quick too” method. They’re rarely said out of faith, but more out of formality; because we are “supposed” to do it. But it is clear in God’s Word that prayer is a gift for you to connect to God and the spirit realm. 1 John 5:14,15 guarantees that since we believe in Jesus, “We are confident that He hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases Him. And since we know He hears us when we make our requests, we also know that He will give us what we ask for.” Now that you KNOW He hears you and desires to move on your behalf, be encouraged and empowered! Take the time to read and meditate on these truths as it relates to your prayers:

☐ Prayer draws God closer to you – Psalm 145:18

☐ It partners with the Holy Spirit that lives in us – Romans 8:26

☐ It activates our faith – Luke 11:9

☐ Gives you wisdom – James 1:5

☐ It defeats the enemy and his strongholds – 2 Corinthians 10:4

☐ Brings healing – Psalm 30:2

☐ God hears and rescues – Psalm 34:15,17

☐ Protects you from harm – Proverbs 30: 5

☐ Activates freedom and deliverance – Acts 16:25,26

☐ God forgives our sins and cleanses us – 1 John 1:9

☐ Ushers in God’s peace – Philippians 4:6,7


“And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him. And since we know he hears us when we make our requests, we also know that he will give us what we ask for.” 1 John 5:14, 15

The Word of God is a great tool to use to fuel your prayer time. Choose one of the verses

above and begin to pray it over your life. Ask God to activate His truth as you pray and have faith that He hears you because that which you are asking comes from His Word.

There is a time of prayer during the lunch hours of 11AM-1PM at the church each Thursday.

NOTES

DAY 5 ❏

NEVER STOP PRAYING. EVER.

Yesterday, you read through many verses that proved what happens when you pray. So imagine now, what would happen if you stopped:

☐ You would be far from God

☐ The Holy Spirit would lay dormant in you

☐ Your faith will be inactive

☐ You will lack wisdom

☐ The enemy will remain victorious in your life

☐ You will remain sick and broken

☐ You will be in danger

☐ You will be bound and oppressed

☐ You will not receive God’s forgiveness

☐ You will lack peace

The list above is just a small glimpse of what you will miss if your prayer life ceases to exist. God designed prayer to be a continual daily, hourly, by the minute, moment-by-moment conversation, never to cease. Re-read verse 16, “Never stop praying.” God knows our unending need to stay in communication with Him, so He made it plain and simple… Never. Stop. Praying.


“Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Ask the Lord to heighten your awareness today of Him and the need to be in continual communication with Him today. As you think of what may come up in your day, give those things over to God right now in your prayer. Ask Him to condition your heart and mind for unending conversation with Him today.

NOTES

DAY 6 ❏

PROTECT

Fort Meade, Maryland houses our country’s National Security Agency (NSA). If you have ever driven on Route 32 near there, you will notice clear signs indicating the exit for NSA and that it is for authorized personnel only. However, in the event that you mistakenly take the exit, you will soon know within a matter of second and yards that you made a serious error. Without warning, you are being pulled over; you and your vehicle searched and face a harsh investigation of your intentions of entering, and then released, only after a

strong warning to not enter again. By the time you get back on the road, you are clear never to use that exit again. NSA’s main value says, “We will protect national security interests by adhering to the highest standards of behavior.” In other words, they don’t play games when it comes to securing our safety.

How much more important is it to protect what is most valuable in all of eternity and time? That is what your relationship with God is. There is a real enemy who would love nothing more than to breech security so he can wreak havoc and ultimately destroy your relationship with God. Decide in your heart today that you will protect your relationship with the Lord, no matter what.


“Above all else, guard your affections. For they influence everything else in your life.” Proverbs 4:24 (TLB)

Lord Jesus, reveal to me the areas in our relationship that I need to begin protecting.

I ask that you would teach me how to guard what matters most to me, which is what I have found in You. Forgive me for being too relaxed in this area of my life. I trust that You know what is best for me, so I give you permission to remove anything in my life that will deplete my spirit and hinder my relationship with You.

NOTES

DAY 7 ❏

LOVE IS THE BEST PROTECTION

“Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and all your soul and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” Matthew 22:36-38

You protect what is important to you. That’s why you secure your money in the bank, install security systems in your home and car, wear seat belts when you drive, etc.

The best way to protect your relationship with God is LOVE. Love must come from the HEART (your inward affections), the SOUL (all your consciousness) and your MIND (all

your thoughts). This love, the one that is commanded of you to have towards God, will be your greatest protection against anything or anyone that may harm your relationship with the Lord. Loving God is the motivation but here are some practical things you can do:

1. Watch what relationships you give energy to

2. Pay attention to what you listen to and watch

3. Monitor how you spend your time

4. Tell those to whom you are close to, to hold you accountable

5. Beware of things that may steal your affection for God


“‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.” Matthew 22:37-38

Lord Jesus, I want to love you the way Your word commands me to: with all my heart, with

all my soul, and with all my mind. Continue to shape my desires to they align with yours. I confess right now that these things have diluted my love for you (confess these areas, specific to your life). I am sorry. With the help of Your Holy Spirit, I commit to loving you, wholeheartedly. Let this love be the driving force in protecting my relationship with you.

NOTES

WEEK TWO PRAYER FOCUS

SOUTH AMERICAPray for our missions to Honduras.

Pray for our partner One Child Matters.

If you are interested please sign up for the Honduras Trip, which will happen in May.

DAY 8 ❏

GIVE THANKS


Have you ever asked the question, “God, what is your will for my life?” We often ask that when we are searching for what it is He wants us to do or where He wants to lead us. Let’s revisit

1 Thessalonians 5 which has a powerful key to fulfilling God’s will for your life, “Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you…”

Right now at this moment, God’s will is for you to be thankful. You may have been looking for something more profound, but there is power in the simplicity of being thankful. No matter what your circumstance may be, God makes in plain that what pleases Him is to be thankful. Gratitude is an act of worship, flowing out of a heart that sees God in all things.

NOTES



Be thankful in ALL circumstances. Tell the Lord what you are thankful for today and be sure to include those things that are difficult, less than desirable, and maybe even painful. Ask Him to work ALL things for your good because He loves you.

DAY 9 ❏

GIVE THANKS

Back in week one you discovered thanksgiving is a form a prayer, which is a tool to grow your relationship with The Lord. Growth, includes not just verbally thanking Him for what He has done, but also for His blessings.

Think about it – the poorest in the US are richer than 70% of those living anywhere else in the world.* Now, are you one of our countries poorest? Maybe, maybe not. Consider how tremendously blessed you are. Do you have all your limbs? Are you able to breath without a machine? Will you eat today? Do you have a bed, pillows, and sheets? Can

you wash your clothes? Do you have clothes? Are you safe and dry in your home? Do you have shoes to wear? Do you have access to clean water? Can read these words?

It is easy to be distracted in what you may not have or what you are not able to do, but when you stop to think about your life, you are blessed. The blessing is that your name exists in God’s book of those who belong to Him. Angels keep the blessed because the Spirit of the Living God, lives inside of you. You have victory over the enemy in Christ Jesus. Created in the magnificent image of God, you are beautiful. Now that is something to express gratitude about! May gratitude spill over in every conversation you have and in everything that you do today.


“You can be sure that God will take care of everything you need, his generosity exceeding even yours in the glory that pours from Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 (MSG)

Lord Jesus, Forgive me. I am often so absorbed in my world that I do not take time

to be truly thankful for all that you have done for me and provided for me. But most of all, you have given me Yourself. I am guilty of complaining and ignoring your consistent blessings in my life. Thank you for forgiving me and opening my eyes so that I can now begin living a life of gratitude and thanksgiving.

*www.forbes.com

NOTES

DAY 10 ❏

GIVE AN ACCOUNT

“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they are found trustworthy.” 1 Corinthians 4:2

Sarah Young’s “Jesus Calling” is an incredible devotional resource when it comes to growing in your relationship with Jesus. Each day has been scripted as if Jesus Himself was sharing with you in personal conversation.

“Remember that all good things – your possessions, your family, and friends, your health and abilities, your time – are gifts from Me (Jesus). Instead of feeling entitled to all these blessings, respond to them with

gratitude. Be prepared to let go of anything I take from you, but never let go of my hand.”

All you have is from God. Nothing truly belongs to you. For the time you are on this earth, you are trusted to be managers or stewards of time, resources, relationships, money, etc. There will be times when the Lord will see fit to remove things from your life and also times to add to your life. God’s concern is that you operate in faithfulness to Him and be a good steward of what He gives you, knowing that all you have is His. He is good (Psalm 100:5) and operates out of His good nature. Knowing this frees you to trust Him and steward what He gives you with excellence and care.


“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they are found trustworthy.” 1 Corinthians 4:2

Take a look at what you have, and ask yourself, “Am I found to be trustworthy?”

Answer honestly. If your answer is no, ask the Lord to forgive you and for His help to become a more trustworthy steward. If your answer is yes, continue on that path and thank Him for his constant help.

NOTES

DAY 11 ❏

GIVE AN ACCOUNT

“Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.” Romans 14:12

How many bank accounts do you have? Do you have a checking account? A savings? A “you better not touch until Christmas” account? The average account holding adult in America has at least two bank accounts and sometimes at different banks and credit unions. Money is constantly being added and subtracted, given and received, and several transactions are being made on a daily basis: deposits, withdrawals, transfers, wires, etc.

Yesterday you read how everything you have belongs to God, even the money in your various accounts. But there is another account you have, a spiritual one. This account is the one you will present to the Lord when your life here on earth is over. One day when all done, every knee will bow, and every mouth

will confess that Jesus is Lord, you will have to give an account for what you did while you lived. This account will have many transactions: words spoken, deposits made into people, actions taken, investments made into God’s Kingdom, deficits in your character, etc. How did you manage what God gave you to make an eternal impact in the world? Did you budget your money, so you knew what was available to spend and give? Did you live within your means? Did you earn your money honestly? Did you pay your debts? Did you leave a legacy for those after you? Did you obediently give according to God’s Word?

These are all questions to consider. You may not have gotten off to a good start, but you can start today. Create a budget and stick to it. Talk to someone about holding you accountable with your finances. Start a 401K for retirement. Start saving. Give your tithes and your offerings cheerfully. Invite God into these plans and ask Him to lead you in every decision.


“Yes, each of us will give a personal account to God.” Romans 14:12

Lord Jesus, I thank you for every resource you have given me. I acknowledge nothing truly belongs to me, but was supplied by You. I ask that you would help me to be the best steward

of my time, my talents, and my treasure. Forgive me for being wasteful and mishandling these things and allow me to start fresh today. I commit to using who I am and what I have to make an eternal impact.


NOTES

DAY 12 ❏

GIVE GENEROUSLY

Over the next three days, you are going to read through 2 Corinthians 9, which teaches about biblical generosity.

You are most like God when you give because giving is a direct by-product of love, which is the very essence of who God is. Imagine being “like God”. You look like Him because you are created in His image. You belong to Him because of your restored relationship through Jesus. You connect to Him through prayer, worship, and reading His word. But being generous “like God” activates the

“WHO” He is in you. That is what giving is, that is what giving does.

You also know that according to the measure you give, you will receive. If you give lavishly, you will reap in that same manner. God is not looking to twist your arm or guilt-trip you into giving because that is not His nature. He gives freely, cheerfully, and without measure. It’s His joy to give, and He wants you to have that same nature. God gives His absolute best, proven in the giving of His son Jesus.

Decide in your heart today to be a cheerful, generous giver; knowing that doing so, you will not only be like God, but you will please Him, bringing a smile to His face.


“Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don’t give reluctantly or in response to pressure. ‘For God loves a person who gives cheerfully.’ ” 2 Corinthians 9:6,7

Lord Jesus, Thank you for giving of your very best for me. Your best was your life given so I may be restored to a right relationship with God, our Father. Now I ask that you would show me what MY best is. As you show me, may I begin to give freely and cheerfully, knowing that when I do, I am most like You. Help me to let go of anything that may rob me of being the kind of giver you want me to be because you are my greatest reward.

NOTES

DAY 13 ❏

GIVE GENEROUSLY

“And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, ‘They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.’” 2 Corinthians 9:8,9

God specializes in “more than enough”. In Him we have everything we need and could ever want. He is peace. He is joy. He is strength. He is hope. He is unfailing love. He is_________ (feel free to fill in the blank). He is your unending source!

Because of His generosity towards you, you can be confident you will not only have your needs met, but you will have extra to share

with others. That is a promise if we take on His generous and cheerful heart towards giving to others.

Don’t believe it, take a look at Jesus in action in John 6 – “Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish.” (vs 11). Jesus took a young boy’s lunch of 2 fish and 5 loaves and fed more than 10 people. AND there were leftovers—12 baskets full! Talk about more than enough!

When you give cheerfully and generously to those in need, God promises it will be remembered forever. Forever is not just in the earthly sense of people remembering, but HE will remember forever your generosity, even into eternity. It will stay remembered in His mind and heart, long after you gave. Your momentary giving will carry into eternity!


“And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, ‘They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever.’” 2 Corinthians 9:8,9

Today, meditate on ways that God has been more than enough in our life. Thank Him for His abundance in those areas. Now think about those areas where there may be a lack (finances, peace, health in relationships, etc.) and begin to ask God to be “more than enough” in those areas. Thank Him now, in faith, that He will supply your every need and bring His abundance.

NOTES

DAY 14 ❏

GIVE GENEROUSLY

“For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity] in you. Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous… two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the believers… will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:10-12

At the end of the day, generosity is never about us and it is never just about a need being met. God supplies all you need to be

generous so those who receive will ultimately praise Him! Giving to others unlocks gratitude in others!

Imagine as you give cheerfully, the receiver will receive with joyful expression and give thanks to God, who supplies all things. All the glory, all the credit, and all the honor goes back to Him, where it rightly belongs. You become an instrument of enthusiastic gratitude and thanksgiving. Thanksgiving honors God and deepens your relationship with Him.

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “You can’t out give God!” It’s true. The more you cheerfully and generously give, the more He is praised and honored and the more He gives back to you. The glorious blessing cycle never ends.


“For God is the one who provides seed for the farmer and then bread to eat. In the same way, he will provide and increase your resources and then produce a great harvest of generosity] in you. Yes, you will be enriched in every way so that you can always be generous… two good things will result from this ministry of giving—the needs of the

believers… will be met, and they will joyfully express their thanks to God.” 2 Corinthians 9:10-12

Today, ask God what can you give and prepare your heart to give what He requests. He knows your needs and is ready to supply for them. He simply asks that cheerfully give, as He has given to you.

NOTES

WEEK THREE PRAYER FOCUS

ASIAPray for our missions to the Philippines.

Pray for our partner One Child Matters.

If you are interested please sign up for the Philippines Trip which will happen in October.

DAY 15 ❏

STAY

To quiet the hunger of temporarily; to stand firm; to take up residence; capacity for endurance. (Merriam-Webster Dictionary).

Today is Monday. Mondays have such a bad rap. They are the most detested day of the week. The weekend is over. Vacation time ended. You have the rest of the week to dredge through, and you may not even have had your coffee yet. BUT today is a new day and for the chaos of what life brings on any day of the week, peace is available to you right now.

“You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)

This verse has an important word to pay attention to; it is the key to peace – STAYED. This week, you are going to be encouraged and challenged every day to STAY. STAY in God’s Word, STAY in God’s presence, and STAY focused.

God is a promise maker, but even better, He is a promise keeper. He is true to His word and will always keep His promises. One incredible promise He makes to those who keep their mind focused on Him and trusting Him is that He will keep them in perfect peace. God is perfect, lacking nothing and having no flaw. He alone can keep the promise give you lasting peace; peace that endures, peace that is consistent, peace that is real, authentic, and life changing.


“You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You.” Isaiah 26:3 (NKJV)

Be intentional today to keep your mind in a staying position on God. Ask Him to bring the above verse to your mind throughout the day. You may want to write it down in a place where you will see it all day, as a reminder to continually focus your thoughts on the Lord.

NOTES

DAY 16 ❏

STAY IN GOD’S WORD

“People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Deuteronomy 8:3 & Matthew 4:4

The essentials anyone needs to survive are pretty simple: Food to eat, water to drink, clothes for your body, a roof over your head, and relationships with others. Without these, you will starve, with away, be exposed to outside elements and harm, and live life alone. Everything beyond these essentials is more for your comfort and enjoyment: cell phone, bed, coffee, car, even your toothbrush!

Your spirit has an essential for survival as well – the Word of God. Just as your body needs food to remain nourished, your spirit needs the very words from God’s mouth to replenish and strengthen it every day. If you need three meals a day to be at your physical best, you need the truth of God’s Word to be at your spiritual best. God knows what you need, and He has mapped it out in a beautiful letter. How else will you know that God created you and loves you? Or how to manage your relationships? Or how to stand firm against the Satan? Or what kind of employee/student you can be? All truth and your very spiritual livelihood will be active in staying in God’s Word.


“Keep putting into practice all you learned and received from me—everything you heard from me and saw me doing. Then the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:9 (NLT)

Lord Jesus, Thank you for Your Word. You generously give my spirit nourishment when I daily read and “eat” of your word. I ask that what I read and meditate on would become part of my spiritual DNA. May it build me up and draw me closer to you.

NOTES

DAY 17 ❏

STAY IN GOD’S WORD

“For the word of God is alive and powerful. It is sharper than the sharpest two-edged sword, cutting between soul and spirit, between joint and marrow. It exposes our innermost thoughts and desires.” Hebrews 4:12

What do these three titles have in common?

“The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe”

“Harry Potter & The Sorcerers Stone”

“The Davinci Code”

“A Tale of Two Cities”

All of them are top selling books; selling tens of millions of copies each.

If these are top sellers, then what is the number one selling book of all time? The

Holy Bible. Throughout all time, the Bible remains timeless because it is God’s actual words. God’s Word is the only thing written that is still ALIVE. It lives, it breathes, and it is directly connected to how God speaks to you today. Every word is out of God’s heart and has the power to separate what is true and what is false. It is sharper than a sword to divide between spirit and flesh. It reveals to you what is going on in your heart and mind. It’s a reflection of God’s love and His ultimate purpose for all things, including you.

To access true peace, reading the bible and praying what it says is crucial. Taking a verse like Proverbs 3:5, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding” becomes even more powerful when you read it and THEN pray it over your life. You declare over your life to trust God and not yourself. There is no other book, past, present or future, that has the power to transform you as you read it and pray it.


“And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:7 (ESV)

You are continuing to learn that combining prayer and the Word of God is a powerful tool in growing your faith. Keep practicing this as you read aloud and pray Philippians 4:7 over yourself, your loved ones, and for those who you regularly pray. What other verses can you apply this method too?

NOTES

DAY 18 ❏

STAY IN GOD’S PRESENCE

“He says, ‘Be still, and know that I am God...’” Psalm 46:10

You are going to use your imagination today. Imagine that you are on a walk in the forest. It’s a beautiful and quiet morning. You hear the waking of birds as they sing. You smell the fresh air of dew on the leaves. You see the sun peaking through the tree ahead. You feel a warm breeze pass you by, comforting you as you go. And just up ahead, you see the forest open up to a beautiful lake. Just at the edge of the lake is a tree stump when you decided to sit and bask in the beauty of all you see, hear,

smell, and feel. Stay there for a moment.

Do you notice that you are calm, maybe even tranquil in the moment? You have quieted yourself. Now imagine that Jesus there with you. He looks you in the eyes with deep love and anticipation. He knows He now has your undivided, quieted attention because you are still. In this stillness, He can begin to talk with you and share His heart for you. It is in this stillness that you can know God.

In order for God’s peace to infiltrate your life, you have to allow times of quiet and stillness where it is just you and Him. No music, no noise, no one else. It is in these moments that God heals you, refreshes you, changes your perspective, and gives you new life. These moments allow you to KNOW God.


“So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace.” Romans 8:6 (NLT)

Lord Jesus, you have given me a mind that can imagine, picture, and meditate on You and

your Word. Activate my mind to connect to Your Presence every day. I know that in your presence, I have access to all I need and am truly free. May I carry your presence with me everywhere I go today.


NOTES

DAY 19 ❏

STAY IN GOD’S PRESENCE

It’s not too common these days; there was a time when it was normal when at a restaurant for the hostess would ask you if you wanted seats in the smoking or non-smoking section. A side was reserved for smokers and the other side for non-smokers. Often, no matter what side you sat on, smoke would eventually waft its way into the entire restaurant. There was no real way to for the two sections to remain completely separate. For non-smokers, second-hand smoke would be inevitable. Upon departure, everyone would smell of smoke in his or her clothes and hair. The nature of smoke lingers in the air and affects anyone who is near it.

In the Old Testament, priests would burn incense at the temple as an act of worship. The incense represented the holiness of God’s presence (Leviticus 16). People knew when a priest had been in the presence of God because the aroma of the smoke from the incense would be in their clothes, their hair, and skin. It was undeniable.

As a follower of Jesus Christ, you now have unlimited access to God’s presence. He welcomes you freely and desires for you spend time with Him. Imagine what your spiritual aroma would be if you spent daily times with God, allowing His holiness and glory to fragrance you. Everywhere you would go; His aroma would be an undeniable reminder of His presence and where His presence is, there is perfect peace.


“But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!” Galatians 5:22-23 (NLT)

Take some time, sit and meditate on the Lord. Ask Him to lead you into His presence and just sit. Stay. Allow Him to soak you in His presence. Thank Him for giving you access to the gift of being with Him. As He refreshes you in His presence, ask for His aroma to be about you all day and for others to be able to benefit from His presence in and about you today.

NOTES

DAY 20 ❏

STAY FOCUSED

Have you ever looked a photograph and noticed that even though you see the entire picture, there is a certain part that is more in focus? A skilled photographer has the ability to adjust the camera’s focus so that part of the picture is slightly blurry, and another part is clear. It’s called a depth of field. The area within the depth of field appears sharp, while the areas in front of and beyond the depth of field appear blurry. This allows you to see the focal object immediately and not what is in front of it or behind it.

Focusing on God is like putting Him in your

depth of field, where you see Him and everything else seems to blur or not have as sharp of an image. You may notice other things, but your focus is sharply and intently on Him.

A trick that some photographers use to increase the sharpness of an object is a “zoom” feature. The more they zoom in on the object, the less they see the background and other objects. One way to ensure that God is your main focus and everything else become less noticeable is to zoom, or narrow, our focus on Him. When you do that, you don’t notice your problems, issues, and circumstances as much, but you see God more clearly. You are more able to rest in the peace of knowing Him.


“Casting the whole of your care [all your anxieties, all your worries, all your concerns, once and for all] on Him, for He cares for you affectionately and cares about you watchfully.” 1 Peter 5:7 (AMP)

Lord Jesus, I decide today to focus on You.

You know what troubles me, consumes my mind, and tries to hinder my relationship with you. So today, I cast all of my cares on you. I give you all of my fears, my worries, my concerns, everything, knowing that you will take care of me because you love me and are completely able to handle every part of my life. As you take my cares, I choose to “zoom” my focus on you, allowing everything else to fade.

NOTES

DAY 21 ❏

STAY FOCUSED

“…Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Matthew 14:29,30

Remember the lake you imagined a few days ago? It was such a peaceful moment, being still before the Lord. Now imagine the same lake is now raging from massive gusts of wind and rain. And you are no longer on the shore but are in the middle of the lake, without a boat or life raft. Even if you can swim, this storm is incredibly strong, and each wave threatens to take you under and wipe you out. You are gasping for air and crying out for help.

Does this sound familiar? Wasn’t this Peter’s

story? He had been on the lake most of his life as a fisherman and knew it when it was calm and when storms raged. Peter’s entire scope of reality changed when Jesus invited him to walk out onto the swelling waves and come towards Him. Peter, overcome with faith in Jesus, stepped out of the boat and headed for the Lord. He soon noticed the chaos around him, and Peter’s peace dissipated. As long as he focused on the LORD, Peter was at peace and confident on Jesus, but as soon as his focused shifted, he began to sink.

Maintaining peace is a consistent and intentionally daily discipline. There are going to be countless things in your life trying to distract you and draw you deeper into panic and stress. BUT YOU HAVE JESUS, who defies the natural and supernatural. Your daily decision to stay focused on Jesus will keep you from clamoring for safety and resting in His care.


“Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.” Isaiah 41:10 (NLT)

You may have already found it difficult to focus on God. In that difficulty, ask Him to help you. His Holy Spirit lives WITHIN you and is ready to help. Ask Him to mute the loud noise of fear and worry and turn up His voice in your spirit. Remind God of what He said in Isaiah 40:31, that He will help you and uphold you in victory.

NOTES

WEEK FOUR PRAYER FOCUS

AFRICAPray for our missions to Kenya.

Pray for our partner, One Child Matters.

If you are interested please sign up for the Kenya Trip, which will happen in February 2016.

DAY 22 ❏

SERVE DEFINED

When you hear the word serve, many things may come to mind. You are served when eating at a restaurant. Those who are in the military honorably serve our country. A volleyball player will serve the play for the game to begin. The word has many meanings and fits many settings.

In Philippians 2, Paul shares that to truly serve, is to have the attitude of Jesus Christ.

“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your

interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” (vs 3-5). It is his attitude and posture that separates how the world serves from how Christ wants you to serve your church, your friends, and your world. You must have the same attitude as Christ Jesus- He was fully God, yet “He gave up his divine privileges; He took the humble position of a slave,” (vs 7) and “humbled himself in obedience to God.” (vs 8). Jesus’ obedience led Him to death on the cross to bear our punishment. Our obedience to serve with His attitude will lead others to Him. How Jesus served with His death and how we serve in life ultimately fulfills God’s purpose to redeem His children back to Him.


“Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don’t look out only for your interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.” Philippians 2:3-5

Ask the Lord to give you the attitude of Jesus as demonstrated in Philippians 2. It is not an easy prayer to pray and even harder one to live out; however, being available for God to use you in this way the greatest life you can lead. Keep this posture as you read each day’s devotional this week.

NOTES

DAY 23 ❏

SERVE YOUR CHURCH

“Therefore, as we have an opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6:10

Yesterday, you prayed a courageous prayer for God to give you the attitude of Jesus as it relates to serving others. One way you can serve that has a large and immediate influence is serving in your church. Now wait, before you think of all the reasons why you can not. I have no time, I don’t like being in front of people, I don’t know anyone, I don’t know

where I would fit… Or the reason you will not. I don’t feel like it, it’s too hard, I have tried it already and did not like it…

Take a moment to think about the WHY you serve – to draw people closer to God. What greater purpose is there? When you decide to serve in the local church, you partner with a body of believers who are all about the same mission – drawing people closer to God. But it takes someone just like you. It takes your gifts, your talents, your personality, your story, and your experiences. There are people who walk through your church’s doors every week that you can impact just by being accessible through serving. There is room for you to serve, and the need for you to serve.


“Therefore, as we have an opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6:10

Are you ready to walk out that courageous Philippians 2 prayer? Ask the Lord today to show you how you can get involved and serve your church.

NOTES

DAY 24 ❏

SERVE YOUR CHURCH

Mark was a youth pastor, passionate about seeing teenagers come to know Jesus. Eric, a young man who recently made the decision to follow Jesus in that same church, started volunteering in Mark’s youth group. During Eric’s time of serving, he led many young people to Jesus as well. One of those young people was Jackie. Jackie was full of life and decided that she wanted to serve in youth group by leading the drama ministry. Jackie had a gift for making stories come to life through skits, music, and dancing. Many teens joined her team, but she was in need of more people, so she started scouting out new attendees in youth group. One night she noticed a teenage girl hanging out by herself and later found out it was only her second time to youth group. Jackie invited this young lady to join her drama team, and after much

reluctance, the young lady joined. A couple months passed and the new young lady attended a youth retreat where she would be performing with the drama team. During that retreat, she gave her life to Christ at 17 years old. From there, she attended a youth conference where God spoke to her about being called to serve in full-time ministry. That night she said, “yes” to God’s call. After attending bible college, she interned at a church; serving there for eight years until she was given the opportunity to work full time as the Kid’s Director. Mark lead to Eric. Eric led to Jackie. Jackie lead to Ericka. Erika, the new teen at youth group who joined the drama team. She gave her life to Jesus. Said yes to being in full-time ministry, served as a volunteer for eight years, and now is the NextGen Pastor at i5CHURCH.

Say “yes” to serve today. Your life has a ripple effect that brings people to Jesus. Just ask Pastor Ericka.


“Don’t be misled: No one makes a fool of God. What a person plants, he will harvest. The person who plants selfishness, ignoring the needs of others—ignoring God!—harvests a crop of weeds. All he’ll have to show for his life is weeds! But the one who plants in response to God, letting God’s Spirit do the growth work in him, harvests a crop of real life, eternal life. So let’s not allow ourselves to get fatigued doing good. At the right time, we will harvest a good crop if we don’t give up, or quit. Right now, therefore, every time we

get a chance, let us work for the benefit of all, starting with the people closest to us in the community of faith.” Galatians 6:7-10 MSG

Lord Jesus, Thank you for designing me to serve others. I want to harvest “a crop of real life, eternal life” so I ask that You would lead me, by Your Spirit, to serve others, specifically within the local church. I have gift, talents, and passions; all given by you to share who You are with the world. May I activate these things by serving. May I serve “every time I get a chance”, working to “benefit all”.

NOTES

DAY 25 ❏

SERVE YOUR FRIENDS

“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:8-10

Have you ever thought about how many friends you have? Not necessarily Facebook friends or Instagram follower or those you faithfully re-tweet, but those who you are in a relationship with and have access to on a regular basis. When was the last time you had the servant attitude of Christ towards them?

These friends are in your life for a purpose; to enjoy a relationship with, but also to serve them in a way that draws them closer to Jesus. The verse above (1 Peter 4:1-8-10) says to love deeply and to offer hospitality without grumbling. It also encourages us to serve them with whatever gift you have.

What needs do your friends have that you can readily meet? Are they hurting and need quality time with someone who loves them? Are they heading in a dangerous direction and need encouragement to draw closer to God? Are they stressed and could just use a good meal and a laugh? God has given you these relationships to care for and nurture – to serve. There are unlimited ways to do this in a practical, yet very personal way.


“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:8-10

Today, pray for your friends and ask God to show you ways that you can serve them with what you have. Before the day is over, make a plan to serve one of your friends this week.


NOTES

DAY 26 ❏

SERVE YOUR FRIENDS

Let’s get hands on today. Write down five people who you know God has for you to serve. Husbands and wives, please include your spouse. Parents, be sure to include your children. This list can have neighbors, co-workers, gym buddies, those you attend church with... you know your list.

Now, next to each name, write down one way that you can serve them this week. Below are some suggestions to use as a guide, but get creative.

☐ Find out their Love Language (gifts, quality time; affection, words of affirmation, and acts of service) and cater what you do towards that

☐ Wash their car

☐ Take them out to lunch or cook them a meal

☐ Watch their kids so they can have some down time

☐ Ask them how you can pray for them and do it right then, with them

☐ Tell them how much they mean to you

☐ Offer to clean their home

☐ Buy them something they may not be able to afford

Ask God to give you His heart and attitude as serve them. Ask Him to reveal their needs to you, pray for them, and then serve them in a practical way. It may be inconvenient and uncomfortable, but you are sowing seeds of love and care that will reap in good fruit in their lives. Let Christ’s love motivate you as you serve them.


“Regarding life together and getting along with each other, you don’t need me to tell you what to do. You’re God-taught in these matters. Just love one another! You’re already good at it …Keep it up; get better and better at it.” 1 Thessalonians 4:9, 10 (MSG)

Lord Jesus, I pray now for the people on my list. I ask that you would show me what I can do to love them by serving them. Give me a heart that loves; a heart like Yours. A heart motivated to serve others. Just as you came to serve, allow that to be my posture with those in my world.

NOTES

DAY 27 ❏

SERVE YOUR WORLD

“In our union with Christ Jesus he has created us for a life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do” Ephesians 2:10b (TEV)

Thinking about serving the WORLD can be overwhelming. The world consists of over 7 billion people in 196 countries, seven continents, and one giant planet. How in the world (no pun intended) are you, one person, supposed to serve the world?

Don’t worry. God is not asking you to serve the world; He is asking you to serve your world.

Your world consists of people with whom you work or go to school. These maybe friends and family, your church family, those who live in your neighborhood, people who you see every week at the grocery store and coffee shop, people in your community. THAT is your world, and where God has you is where God wants to use you. He knew when H created the universe that you would be living in your neighborhood, working you’re at your job, attending your school, and doing life in your community. He arranged it all in advance for you to make a God impact in the lives of those around you.

You are not responsible for the 7.1 billion people on planet earth, but do have a responsibility to tangibly serve your world.


“In our union with Christ Jesus he has created us for a life of good deeds, which he has already prepared for us to do” Ephesians 2:10b (TEV)

Talk to God about your world today. Ask Him to give you eyes to see and ears to hear what needs you can meet. Ask Him to open doors for you to serve and to serve with His heart.

NOTES

DAY 28 ❏

SERVE. YOUR. WORLD.

SERVE – Meet the needs of others with the attitude of Christ, by obediently humbling yourself, taking an interest in others, knowing it will draw them closer to Jesus.

YOUR – With your talents, time, abilities, treasures.

WORLD – Those who God has placed in your sphere of influence and impact – family,

friends, co-workers, church family, teachers, coaches, neighbors, and community.

Jesus’ last words to all of His followers before He departed for heaven was clear: to continue His mission of making more disciples, with a reminder that He would be with us forever. That is why you…

Serve. Give. Stay. Pursue. Pray. Protect.

All that matters during your time here on earth is bringing people into a relationship with Jesus. Period.


“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:19,20

The above verse is your life’s purpose. Write it somewhere you will see it every day as a reminder of why you are here and who you live.

Lord Jesus, thank you for being an example of love, forgiveness, and redemption. I ask that you will help me every day to live a God-first life that is fueled by your Holy Spirit. Continue to activate your word in my heart so that I am

ready to GO and share your love to others. Use my story, my talents, my personality— everything about me to bring others to you. I recommit to your purpose for my life!

Lord Jesus, Thank you for the person reading this prayer. We ask that you would bless them with the richness of an authentic relationship with you. As they have fasted and prayed these 28 days, may you demonstrate your supernatural power in their lives. We ask that you would activate them for your purposes so that everyone they come in contact with will be impacted by your tangible love. May you bless them, and keep them. May they be daily lead by and filled with your Holy Spirit. Use them to fulfill their greatest responsibility: bringing people into a relationship with you. It is all for your glory. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.

NOTES

The Next 365 Days

We want to encourage you to be just as intentional about the next three-hundred and sixty-five days…and

three-hundred and sixty-five days after that…and so on. Remember, keeping the fire and zeal for God burning in your heart is what will keep your relationship with Him fresh and new. It will allow you to continue serving and obeying Him as you experience the joy of your salvation everyday— regardless of what life brings your way.

The principles you have practiced in these three-hundred and sixty-five days are very easy to sustain long-term. Prayer, fasting, and personal devotion are all quite simple to incorporate into your everyday life. You’ve

created space for God to fill. The best way to continue in these same practices is to keep that space open indefinitely. Don’t allow it to close up! Protect that time and space with God and make it your priority each day.

Just like reading your Bible, praying, and attending church, fasting is also a lifestyle. We encourage you to establish a frequency and consistency of fasting in your life. Remember, this is not a legalistic thing. This is an “I get to experience God” thing. It is like going into heaven for a tune up, so we can keep our passion for God at a high level. We encourage you to do the same. Figure out what works for you, commit to it, and make it a part of your life.

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