September 10-16, 2023
Our focus chapter this month is found in 2 Corinthians 4. Personally, I have been struggling to be my best self lately. This chapter came to me as a reminder that God is at work even when I'm feeling pushed in on, hard-pressed, and frustrated with myself. I hope you can read along and follow the prayer prompts to be encouraged in your own walk with Christ. He is faithful to show us mercy and grace when we are not at our best!
This Week’s Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 4
Focus Reading
Therefore, since God in his mercy has given us this new way, we never give up. We reject all shameful deeds and underhanded methods. We don’t try to trick anyone or distort the word of God. We tell the truth before God, and all who are honest know this. If the Good News we preach is hidden behind a veil, it is hidden only from people who are perishing. Satan, who is the god of this world, has blinded the minds of those who don’t believe. They are unable to see the glorious light of the Good News. They don’t understand this message about the glory of Christ, who is the exact likeness of God (2 Corinthians 4:1-4).
Prayer Prompts
Day 1: Verse 1 cautions us not to lose heart. What have you been losing heart about lately? Make that a prayer to the Lord. Place it in His hands today.
Day 2: Verse 2 mentions shame. Shame keeps us from confessing. It is hard to overcome but so freeing when we clear out the weeds of our heart. Share with God the areas where you are keeping secrets or hiding your shameful ways.
Day 3: Verse 2 also begs the question, in what areas have your distorted truth to get your own way? Confess to any person who might be getting the brunt of that behavior. Commit to God to change this pattern. Ask for His help.
Day 4: Verse 2 talks about confessing as "setting forth the truth plainly." It clears your conscience in the sight of God. Praise God for giving you a way to come to Him and a way to be free!
Day 5: Verses 3 and 4 are hard ones to swallow. Take a moment and read those verses in several translations on BibleHub.com. See what you find out about God's heart for His people.
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.