January 26-February 1, 2025
As we begin a New Year, we all want to create a fresh start or begin a new habit. Did you know that January is the worst time to try to change a routine? Your body and mind are in a season of winter. It’s a time of stillness. Being slow and gentle with yourself is the better choice for this month. You can take inventory and look beneath the surface of life but this month, don’t try to make drastic changes. Your better place is at the foot of Jesus, prayerfully resting, and listening/waiting upon Him.
This week's Bible reading: “Answer me, Lord, out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me.” (Psalm 69:16).
Focus Theme: Stillness
Prayer Prompts
Day 1: There is a meme going around joking that we are on day 100 of January. I can relate to this sentiment because it’s been a rough start to the new year for me. And it seems more fragile because it’s new. Take inventory. How have the first week’s of the year been for you?
Day 2: Have you asked the Lord for anything yet? What desires do you need to give Him today? What needs to change?
Day 3: Do you believe His love is good? Sometimes our circumstances are not good. If I made a list - fridge broke, hit a deer riding home, chicken coop door broke, flu, financial extras, etc. That was just January. But, my true inventory is that God’s love for me is still good. He doesn’t withhold good from His children. Do you believe that even when your circumstances are not good? Write a prayer thanking Him for His love.
Day 4: What do you know of God’s mercy? The definition is “not getting what you deserve.” Our lives are full of sin patterns, fleshly decisions, and hurts we cause others. We deserve punishment for those acts. But in God’s economy, Christ took the punishment on our behalf. Ask Him to forgive you for the areas you fell short this week.
Day 5: God’s face is turned toward you. He looks upon you and is pleased with His own creation. It is not based on what you’ve done. It’s based on what He’s done. You can’t make him love you any more and you can’t make him love you any less. Sit with that truth today. Rest in it.
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 Creative Devotion page, on Instagram @victoryinart and @aworthylif, and on the web at victoryinart.com.