January 14-20, 2024
Take a few moments to read over Psalm 103. Let it seep into your mind, heart, and soul as you read. If you know the practice of Lectio Divina, this is a good approach.
If you aren't familiar with Lectio Divina, read over the verses while asking God to show you what He wants to teach you from the words/thoughts. Each time you read through, He might bring a new part of the passages to mind or illuminate a section while giving you greater understanding. This is an ancient practice that Christians have been using to connect with God in a deeper way.
This week's Bible reading: Psalm 103:9-12
Focus Verse: "For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him” (Psalm 103:11).
Prayer Prompts
Day 1: Have you ever heard the phrase, "Don't join the accuser?" I love that we can recognize the voice of the enemy because God doesn't speak the same language. The enemy speaks in lies, accusations, and distortions. God speaks in truth, graciousness, and clear direction (albeit in a whisper). Take some time to silence the noises in your life so that you can hear the voice of truth today. Be careful that you don't join in with the voice of the accuser. You are on God's team!
Day 2: God gets angry. I said it. We often don't want to admit it, but the Bible speaks about it and Jesus even modeled it. Righteous anger is legit. But he doesn't stay angry with us. He is gentle to restore us and forgive us. (Note: if you are angry with God, just don't stay angry. He can handle you giving Him your hurts and disappointments. Just create a space to process it with Him.)
Day 3: God doesn't treat us as our sins deserve. We deserve His wrath and a heavy hand of punishment. Actually, we deserve death. But God! He made a way for us to be forgiven. Through Christ Jesus, we can be forgiven and restored and live with God forever in eternity.
Day 4: How great is your love for God? Maybe it's huge ocean. Maybe it is a tiny stream. Maybe somewhere in between. This verse says the key is "fearing Him." Fearing God means having an awe of Him and His works. Take a moment to sit in awe of God. Invite Him to show you something big about His character or His nature or His love. Be still and know that He is God today.
Day 5: I love the image of "as far as the east is from the west!" That is the same image of two arms being held wide open without end. It's the shape of Jesus' arms on the cross. It's also the same position where we invite someone into a hug. Take a moment to be aware of your presence this week at work, home, or church. Find a moment to extend a hug to someone who needs it. Remind them that God remembers their mistakes no more!
Prayer Prompts and Bible Readings are provided by Michele Bowden and Lisa Brass, Coaches and Digital Missioners with Visual Faith™ Ministry.
Find them on our Visual Faith Ministries page, on Instagram @victoryinart and @aworthylif, and on the web at victoryinart.com.