Blessed Are...

FBC Newton Fall 2013

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POOR IN SPIRIT: DAY 1

Memory Verse:
Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that God would show you what it looks like to live in humility today. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:3

Daily Scripture: James 2

In what ways do we descrimitate between people, other than rich vs. poor?

How does descriminating between people demonstrate a lack of humility?

How does descrimination keep us from loving our neighbor as ourself?

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Whether we would ever say it verbally, we are constantly judging and comparing ourselves to others, whether its in terms of physical attractivness, smarts, clothing or speech. In general we look up to some and look down on others? When we look down on others, what we are really saying is that we are better than they are. God has uniquely created each person, and loves them as well. If we are going to love others as God has called us to. We must learn to stop looking down on others and see them as beautiful people who God created and loved.

Talk to God:
Spend some time coming clean to God about times when you have looked down on others. Ask Him to allow you to recognize when pride is leading you to look down others. Ask Him to give you eyes to see people and love people in the way that He does.

Daily Task:
Go grab the largest value coin you have. Put it in your pocket or sock. Each time Gods Spirit calls you out today for looking down on someone in thought or speech, touch the coin to remind yourself of the value and worth that God sees in each person and mentally confess your sin to God immediately.

POOR IN SPIRIT: DAY 2

Memory Verse:
Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you through His Word. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:3

Daily Scripture: Read Mark 10:35-45

In what ways did Jesus serve while He was on Earth?

Why do you think Jesus lived the life of a servant?

How does serving others demonstrate humility?

Pride is pufng ourselves up and looking down on others. Humility is viewing ourselves through Gods eyes, and then putting others before ourselves. Jesus is the ultimate example of humility. He is the King of Kings and the Son of God, yet He came to serve and give His life so that others would know the love of His Father. As we serve others, we shine the light of Christ. We show that we are different. We show that we love others. We follow in the footsteps of Christ. A heart of humility is a heart that looks to serve others. No task is beneath someone with a humble heart.

Talk With God:

Spend time with God and ask Him to show you ways to serve others today. Be specic. Ask Him to show you how to serve your family, a friend, a coach, a teacher. Ask that He give you a servants heart and that He would use your acts of service to point others toward Christ.

Daily Task:
Put something on opposite today. Wear a sock inside-out. Put your wallet or phone in the opposite pocket that you normally do. Put a watch on upside down. Put your belt on the opposite way. Every time that you notice the difference today, look to do the opposite of what the world does. Look for a way to serve someone. In simple little acts, look for a way to be a servant.

POOR IN SPIRIT: DAY 3

Memory Verse:
Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:3

Daily Scripture: James 4

Why do you think God is so harsh with those making plans?

How does God suggest these men change their mindset?

How do we plan for our furture without being prideful?

These men receive a harsh rebuke for something that seems relatively innocent. They are simply making plans. We all make plans. Notice how God changed their sentance. He simply added if it is the Lords will. Its only a few words, but the impact is huge. God is control, and we are not. We must learn to act like it and think like it. We may have plans but we must learn to place Gods plans above our own and be willing to exchange our plans for His.

Talk With God:

Tell God your plan for the day...then tell Him you want His plan. Pray for the wisdom to know how God would desire you to act today. Pray for the willingness to exchange Gods plans for your own.

Daily Task:
Take a screenshot or picture of a map and make it your home screen on your phone or computer for the day. Everytime you see it today let it remind you that God writes the map and plan for your life. Let Him be in charge of your every decision today.

POOR IN SPIRIT: DAY 4

Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: Isaiah 40

How does Isaiah describe man?

How does Isaiah describe God?

Why is it good to realize how BIG God is and how small we are?

God is big and we are not. God is in charge and we are not. But, that is a wonderful thing. When we learn that God is in control, we can rest in Him. We can trust Him. We can learn to rely on His strength. Pride is depending on ourselves. Being poor in spirit is depending on God, and when we depend on God we experience the Kingdom of God!

Talk to God:
Beging by telling God your weaknesses. Then thank Him for his strengths and power. Ask for Gods power to take the place of your weakness today and for Him to work in and through you.

Daily Task:
Give up something today that you are dependent on. Give up your phone, social networks, cafne, sugar, television... Each time you think of what you have given up for the day, remember that God desires for us to be dependent on Him, constantly turning to Him for help and power. Take a moment to pray asking God for the power to be obedient to Him in whatever situation you nd yourself in the moment.

THOSE WHO MOURN: DAY 1

Memory Verse:
Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that God would reveal your sins against Him today. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:4

Daily Scripture: Psalm 51

What does David ask God to do for Him?

When is the last time you cried out to God with such emotion?

What keeps you for mourning like David over your sin?

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We all sin. Many times we ask for forgiveness. But most of us do not mourn over our sin like David. The truth is sin is a huge deal, no matter how common place it seems to us. Sin is an offense to a Holy God. Sin sent Jesus to the cross. God takes sin seriously, and we must learn to see sin as God sees it.

Talk to God:
Start your time with God by confessing your sins. Confess specically, not just general sins. After a time of confession, thank God for His forgivenss and pray for His strength to live a life of obedience to His commands.

Daily Task:
Tissues are for mourning. Today take a tissue or hankercheif with you whereever you go. As you notice the tissue today, take a moment to examing your thoughts, attitudes and actions. Take a moment to confess for the ways that you have not lived up to Gods standard, and thank Him for His forgivness.

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THOSE WHO MOURN: DAY 2

Memory Verse:
Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you through His Word. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:4

Daily Scripture: Luke 19: 28-44

What happened when Jesus entered Jerusalem?

Why do you think Jesus wept over Jerusalem?

What did Jesus seem to indicate would happen to Jerusalem?

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Jesus entered Jerusalem a week before He was to be murdered and was met with a combination of praise and insult. As He entered Jerusalm He began to weep for the city that would reject Him a week later. Even though they had been warned by the prophets they would reject Him and suffer punishment. We must weep for our own sin, but just like Jesus, we must also weep for those in our life who have not accepted Jesus. They may have heard, they may have not. But, without Jesus their lives will be consumed by sin and they will ultimately face the consequences of that sin.

Talk With God:

Lift up your family and friends who you know are not living obediently to God. Mourn over their sins. Ask God to resuce them. Ask Him to use you to bring them to salvation.

Daily Task:
Take a moment to disorganize something you normally have organized. Change the order of stuff in your wallet. Change where you put stuff in your bookbag. Move the apps on your phone. Jesus said that because of their sin, Jerusalem would face destruction and one stone would not be left of top of another. The sin in our families and friends life will tear or is tearing their life apart as well. As you keep seeing your disorganization, let it remind you of the mess in your friends or families life and take a moment to pray for them and their salvation.

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THOSE WHO MOURN: DAY 3

Memory Verse:
Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly. Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:4

Daily Scripture: Isaiah 53

In what ways did Christ have to suffer?

Why was it necessary for Him to suffer in this way?

How does Christs suffering bring us comfort?

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Sin is serious and has serious consequences. Jesus suffered for our sin. We must mourn our sin. But, the promise that Jesus gives us is that we will receive comfort after we have mourned for our sin.

Talk With God:

Thank God for His sacrice. Thank God for His forgiveness. Praise Jesus!!

Daily Task:
Go get a bandaid and put it on. As you go about your day, be reminded of the way that Jesus suffered for your sin. As God reveals sin in your life today: confess it, mourn it and thank Jesus that you are forgiven!!

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THOSE WHO MOURN: DAY 4

Memory Verse:
Write the verse here...

Daily Scripture: 1 John 1

What promises does God make to you in these verses?

When was the last time someone forgave you? How did it feel?

For what do you need forgiveness?

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What an incredible promise. If we confess our sins, He will purify us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. There is nothing better than being clean, forgiven and guilt-free. Even though we know God can forgive our sins, many times we dont take the time to confess them. Be comforted today. When you confess your sins, God forgives you and cleanses you.

Talk to God:
Take time to confess your sins and thank God for the fact that you are forgiven!

Daily Task:
As you go about your day, look for simple ways to clean. Wipe away the pencil mark from your desk. Throw away the paper towel on the sink in the bathroom. Pick up the gum wrapper in the hall. As you clean through simple acts today, be reminded that God is constantly and consistenly cleaning and purifying us. Dont miss our on the comfort that God offers today. Confess your sins to Him as He points them out.

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THE MEEK: DAY 1

Memory Verse:
Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that God would speak to you today. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:5

Daily Scripture: Genesis 13:1-12

What problem arose between Abraham and Lot?

Abraham was older, but who took the best land?

How does someone demonstrate that they are gentle?

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Abraham had the right and the strength to take the best of the land for himself. Instead, he chose not to use his power and strength but allow Lot to take the best of the land. Abraham demonstrated great meekness and gentleness. One of the chief characteristics of meekness is that we choose not to use our strength and power for our own gain. Instead we put others before ourselves.

Talk to God:
Thank God for showing gentleness towards you by allowing Jesus to take the punishment that you deserved. Ask Jesus to show you opportunities to be gentle to others today by placing them before yourself.

Daily Task:
Go grab a battery to carry with you today. A battery has power and energy, but it is meant to be used on something else. The battery doesnt control how it is used. It is obedient to be used in whatever way needed. As you keep the battery today, ask God to show you ways to demonstrate meekness by using your power or strength for the good of someone else.

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THE MEEK: DAY 2

Memory Verse:
Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you through His Word. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:5

Daily Scripture: 1 Samuel 24

Why did David choose not to attack Saul?

Why would this have been a difcult choice?

Is your rst reaction to injure those who attack you or to forgive?

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David demonstrates meekness in an incredible way by not attacking a man who is out to kill him. David has the opportunity and the means, and yet he chooses to remain gentle. People may not be out to kill you. But, you will be insulted and mocked. People will gossip about you. You will also have the opportunity to get back at those who have hurt you. Our natural reaction is to hurt those who hurt us. Gods way is to respond with love allowing Him to handle the situation.

Talk With God:

Tell God about someone who has hurt you. Pray for them. Ask for God to show you a way to mend the relationship that has been broken.

Daily Task:
Put a rubberband around your wrist. A rubber band streches to accomodate whatever it is put around. It is exible. As you wear the rubberband today, remember to be exible as well. When someone hurts you or insults you, ask God to help you stretch and handle the insult without responding in anger. Choose to be exible and gentle today. Stretch instead of breaking.

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THE MEEK: DAY 3

Memory Verse:
Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:5

Daily Scripture: Philippians 2:1-18

In what ways did Christ demonstrate gentleness?

Who do you need to make an effort to be gentle to today?

What will it look like for you to be gentle?

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Jesus is the ultimate example of meekness. He has all power and authority, yet He made himself nothing in order to be obedient to His Father and demonstrate His love to the world. In the same way, We must choose to be gentle both because its commanded by our Father but also because its an opportunity to show someone else the unconditional love of the Father.

Talk With God:

Tell God about the people you struggle being gentle with. Pray for them. Thank God for being gentle with you, and ask Him to teach you to be gentle with others as well.

Daily Task:
Today, leave behind things you normally take with you. Leave jewelry, a snack, your chewing gum. As you are reminded about what you have left behind during the day, remember all that Jesus left behind to demonstrate His love for you. Thank Him for His gentleness and look for ways to show gentleness to others.

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THE MEEK: DAY 4

Memory Verse:
Write the verse here...

Daily Scripture: Jerimiah 9:22-24

What things do you tend to boast in the most?

Why is God worthy of boasting?

How does being gentle relate to boasting?

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We love success. We love victory. We love when we come out on top. Who doesnt? Those who are gentle and meek not only submit their strength to God, but they also recognize that their successes are actually gifts from God. When we achieve victories, we must learn not to praise our own accomplishments but to recognize that these successes are gifts from God and we need to point the glory back to Him.

Talk To God:
What has God given you or done for you that you have taken credit for. Take a moment to praise God for the ways that He has worked in your life so far. Ask Him to allow your gifts, talents and successes to point the glory back to Him.

Daily Task:
Take a piece of paper and write Christ on it two times. Smear the lead on one of the words, so that the image is distorted slightly. Then place the paper in a place where you will see it several times throughout the day. The reason we are to live gentle and meek lives is to point others to a God who is gentle with us. When we are gentle in our good times and bad, we present a clear picture of Christ. When we are arrogant in victories or respond in anger to insults, we smear the image of Christ that we are trying to present. Let the two words remind you to represent Christ well by being meek today in both your successes and difculties.

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HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTOUSNESS: DAY 1

Memory Verse:
Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that God would speak to you today. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be lled. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:6

Daily Scripture: Colossians 3:1-17

Which of the negative thoughts that Paul lists causes the most struggle for you?

Which of the positive thoughts that Paul lists would you like to be apparent in your thought life?

What do you think it will take for your thought-life to become more righteous?
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Its easy to point out obvious, blatant sin in other peoples lives. But, most of us would be horried if others could see the thoughts that swirl through our mind. God calls us not only to be clean on the outside but also clean on the inside. This happens through prayer, confession, Gods Word, and depending on Christ. But is holiness something you pursue, something you thirst after? Its what God is calling you to?

Talk to God:
Tell God your thoughts, the ugly ones you would never say out loud. Share with him where you struggle in your thought life. Confess it. Ask Him to continue to teach you how to have a mind that thinkgs like Christ.

Daily Task:
Take along your favorite snack today, but dont touch it until you are getting ready to go to bed tonight. As you crave the treat throughout the day, be reminded that we are to have the same longing desire for righteousness. Righteous thoughts dont just happen, we hunger for them, and Christ lls us.

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HUNGER AND THIRST FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS: DAY 2

Memory Verse:
Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you through His Word. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be lled. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:6

Daily Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-24

What circumstances tend to give you a negative attitude?

Who is affected by your negative attitudes? How?

What do you think it means to be righteous in terms of your attitudes?

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I love team sports, but only if the team works well together. There is nothing worse than being on a team that cant get along. The same is true in our families. One bad attitude can affect everyone. The body of Christ is both a family and a team, and our attitudes are important because if affects people in Gods family. In addition, our attitudes reect whats going on in our heart. When a non-believer consistenly notices a negative attitude coming from a Christians life, it can cause them to have a negative taste towards Christ. The passage isnt saying we should be happy all the time, but it does teach us that our attitudes should be ones that help the church grow and build itself up in love.

Talk With God:

Tell God about when you struggle with a negative attitude, where you are, and who you are with. Ask God to show you today when your attitude is not honoring to Him.

Daily Task:
Go nd a picture or poster in your room and move it so that it is crooked. When something is obviously off the mark, it sticks out. The same can be true of our attitudes. Often people dont notice our good attitudes, sadly they quickly recognzie negative ones. Make a habit of confessing negative attitudes as soon as you notice them today, before someone else does, and see if anyone else notices the crooked picture in your room.
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HUNGER AND THRIST FOR RIGHTOUSNESS: DAY 3

Memory Verse:
Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be lled. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:6

Daily Scripture: Matthew 25:31-46

What are some needs that Jesus addresses?

Who is someone in your life who shares a similar need?

How could God make a difference in their lives through you?

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Righteousness starts in our thoughts, expands to our attitudes but ultimately shows itself in our actions. The Bible consistently speaks of God caring for the poor, the stranger, and the sick. If those are the things a righteous God cares about, shouldnt our righteousness lead us in the same direction. We are surrounded by people with needs. Whether we see them or not is a different story. We must hunger for opportunities to show love to those in need, and when we see those oppotunities, we must act.

Talk With God:

Ask God to show you someone in need today, whether in your school or a need across the world. Ask God to show you how you can be a part of showing tangible love to others.

Daily Task:
Tie a ribbon or string around your wrist today. Your life is a gift from God, but He has an expectation for how you should use that gift. As you see the ribbon today and are reminded that you are a gift, ask God to show you how to use your life to make a difference for someone else.

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HUNGER AND THRIST FOR RIGHTOUSNESS: DAY 4

Memory Verse:
Write the verse here...

Daily Scripture: John 15:1-17

According to the verses, what are somethings that God does?

What promises does He make?

What does it mean for you to remain in Christ?

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Jesus chose you, appointed you and is pruning you to be fruitful. Jesus calls us to hunger and thirst for righteousness, but He also promises that when we thirst in this way we will be lled. What a promise!! But, heres the key...remaining in Christ. Righteousness comes from Christ, and as we keep close to Him and say YES to Him He produces an incredible change in our lives.

Talk To God:
Beg God to work in your life. Whavever you need Him to change, whatever you want Him to do in your life, ask Him. Hunger and Thrist to be more like Jesus everyday. Thank Him for the work He has already done.

Daily Task:
Set a picture of a grapevine as your phone background. As you see it today, be reminded of the work God has done in your life, is doing right now, and will do in the future. What a great God!! Thank Him!!!

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THE MERCIFUL: DAY 1

Memory Verse:
Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that God would show you what it looks like to live in humility today. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:7

Daily Scripture: Psalm 103

What are some examples of Gods mercy found in this psalm?

Which of these examples is most wonderful to you? Why?

How should we respond to this great mercy?

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Mercy. Its love, healing and compassion that isnt deserved. God demonstrated His love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us. Gods mercy covers our every sin, wipes us clean, removes our guilt, and will bring us to His throne in heaven. Gods mercy is great and we must praise Him for it.

Talk to God:
Think of all the ways God has been merciful. List them out. Thank God for each of them and thank God for His continual mercy.

Daily Task:
Download 10,000 Reasons by Matt Redmond. Listen to the song throughout the day. Praise God for His incredible mercy.

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THE MERCIFUL: DAY 2

Memory Verse:
Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you through His Word. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:7

Daily Scripture: Matthew 18:21-35

How has God shown mercy to you?

Who is someone you struggle showing mercy?

What would it look like for you to demonstrate mercy to them?

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We may not have a great memory. But, all of us can remember people who have hurt us. We can remember how they did it, and for some people we could write a list. Our limits are different but we all have a point at which we refuse to offer forgiveness. Arent you glad God isnt like that. We have sinned against Gon a thousand times more than anyone has ever sinned against us, and yet He still offers forgiveness. We must do the same.

Talk With God:

Who do you need to forgive and demonstrate mercy? Tell God about it. Ask Him to show you and opportunity to mend this relationship.

Daily Task:
Write down everything you have spent this week. Every time you spend any amount of money today, write it down. We keep records of money and we keep records of those who have hurt us. Be grateful that Gods mercy wipes out the debt you owe him. As you write down your spending, remember Gods mercy and look to extend that mercy to others.

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THE MERCIFUL: DAY 3

Memory Verse:
Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:7

Daily Scripture: Luke 10:25-37

What does mercy look like in this story?

Who are the wounded people in your life?

What does it look like to be a Good Samaritan to the wounded today?

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God extends mercy to people who have sinned against him. Believers extend mercy to those who have sinned against them, but it doesnt end there. God shows mercy to everyone. There are people in this world who havent hurt us, but instead they are hurting. Not all wounds are physical or easy to see, but they are still there. Our mercy needs to extend to all in need.

Talk With God:

Ask God to open your eyes today to see someone who is wounded. Ask God to show you how to meet that need in love and demonstrate mercy.

Daily Task:
Get some chapstick to take with you today. Chapstick heals lips, but it needs to be applied more than once. The Good Samaritans mercy didnt stop at putting medicing on his wounds, it continued on until the man healed. Our mercy isnt a one time deal. As you use the chapstick today, be reminded of Gods continuing mercy in your life, and look for ways to show that mercy to others.

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THE MERCIFUL: DAY 4

Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: Lamentations 3:1-24

When have you ever felt like the writer of this passage?

At what point does the tone change? Why?

What does it mean to wait for the Lord?

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Our life following Christ isnt easy. There will be hard times where we feel like we are being crushed and God is silent. But, we have hope. God has promised that we will receive mercy, and God Does Not Lie. Even when we cant feel it, Gods mercy is still there, new every morning.

Talk to God:
Tell God about when you struggle to have faith. Tell Him when He feels distant. Thank Him for his promise of mercy and forgivness. Rest in it.

Daily Task:
Whats one thing you do when you are waiting for something to make the time go by faster. Is there a game you play? Do you draw? Listen to music? Whatever it is, as you do that activity today, be reminded that you are waiting on God. You are waiting on God to bring a complete end to death, sin, and pain. He is going to bring an end to it, and waiting isnt near as hard when we keep His sure promise in mind. Gods mercy is a promise, rest in that promise today!

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PURE IN HEART: DAY 1

Memory Verse:
Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that God would show you what it looks like to live in humility today. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:7

Daily Scripture: Judges 6:1-24

How was Gideon brutally honest with God?

Gideon doubted Gods presence? When have you doubted Gods presence?

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Gideon doubted his ability? When have you shared this struggle?

To be pure in heart is to be completely sincere and honest. That starts in our relationship with God. God knows our every thought or motive, and yet theres some things we wont tell Him as if he doesnt already know. Gideon lays it all out. His doubts about God and his doubts about Himself. Guess what? God uses Him anyway. Having a pure heart starts with being open and honest with God.

Talk with God:

Like Gideon, share your doubts, fears and struggles with God. He knows them anyway. Thank God that His is a God who is big enought to work through our weaknesses.

Daily Task:
Go get a playing card to carry with you today. There is a saying that you must call a spade a spade. Basically, you say what is true. We must learn to talk to God in that way. As you see the card today, remember to be bruttaly gut wrenching honest with God today. Even if its not pretty let God know whats going on in your heart and mind. He can handle it.

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PURE IN HEART: DAY 2

Memory Verse:
Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you through His Word. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:8

Daily Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8-18

What are some commands that James gives gives us?

What does he warn might be the result?

What keeps you from being open and honest with people?

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Being pure in heart means being open and honest with God, but it also means being honest with others. Peter tells us to speak truth and seek to do good towards others. He also warns that living in this way will not always bring a good response. We must be honest with one another, our yes meaning yes, and our no meaning no. We must be honest about our faith, being prepared to give an answer. We must be open about our struggles and fears so we can build one another up.

Talk With God:

Ask God to show you what it looks like to be pure and honest in your relationships with others today. Pray he would give you the chance to share what He is doing in your life.

Daily Task:
There is nothing more pure than water. Make an effort to drink only water today. As you drink it be reminded that in the same way you can see through water, God wants your life to be open to others so that they can see what God is doing in You.

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PURE IN HEART: DAY 3

Memory Verse:
Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:8

Daily Scripture: Psalm 51

How is David honest with God?

What does David desire?

How does David say he will respond to Gods mercy?

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David is honest with God about His sin and begs to be clean. But, he doesnt end there. He also promises to tell others about all that God has done for Him. But, notice where purity of heart comes from. It comes from God. God desires for us to have a pure heart and pure motives, and He desires that we be honest in our relationship with Him and with others. Purity is found in a relationship with Christ.

Talk With God:

As youre honest with God about impure motives and struggles, He can begin to do a work in your life. Ask God to change your heart and to sustain you with a willing spirit.

Daily Task:
Outward cleanliness is a continual procees. A shower is not a one time thing that leaves you forever clean, it needs to be repeated. Our relationship with Christ is similar. While his blood covers our sins once and for all, there is still the need for continual confession and repentance. As you go through you cleaning rituals today: showering, washing hands, ect, remember that God desires purity on the inside is well. Hes the one that brings inward cleanliness, so ask Him to do so.

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PURE IN HEART: DAY 4

Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-8

What was Isaiahs response when He saw God?

Have you ever had a similar moment?

What do you think it takes to see and experience God?

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Isaiah sees God. What an incredible experience. Jesus tells us that those with pure hearts will see God at work. When Isaiah saw God at work, something incredible happened. He wanted to join Him. Here am I; send me. As we come before God in purity, we will see Him and His beauty. As we see Him and His beauty, He invites us to join Him in his work. What an incredible priveledge and honor!!

Talk to God:
Ask God to give you purity of heart and for Him to allow you to see Him through the scriptures today, in your life, and working in the lives of others. Ask God to show you how you can join Him at work today.

Daily Task:
Heres your job today. Count the number of times someone tells you to look at something. People are always trying to get our attention. They want to show us a video, a picture, a math problem. God wants to show you something to. He shows Himself to those with pure hearts. Ask God to give you a pure heart and allow you to see Him and join Him at work today.

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PEACEMAKERS: DAY 1
Memory Verse:
Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that God would show you what it looks like to live in humility today. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:9

Daily Scripture: Isaiah 9:1-7

What would be some of the ways that this person would bring peace?

This passage points to Jesus. What does it mean that its peace will never end?

When is a time you have felt Gods peace in your own life?
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God is a god of peace. His son is called the Prince of Peace. He came to x what sin had broken. Jesus restores our relationship with God, he takes our brokeness and makes us whole. Jesus is all about peace and bringing wholeness to a broken world.

Talk with God:

Spend some times thanking God for bringing about peace in your own life. Thank Him for His grace. Thank Him for the ways he has xed what was broken in your life, and bring the things that are still broken to Him asking Him to bring peace and wholeness in those areas as well.

Daily Task:
Whenever you eat anything today, break it rst. Poptart for breakfast? Break it. Sandwich for lunch? Tear it in half. Once things are broken, its often impossible to bring it back to wholeness. The same is true of our life, but God has done the impossible by healing our brokeness through the cross. As you break your food today, remember that God specializes in xing broken things.

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PEACEMAKERS: DAY 2
Memory Verse:
Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you through His Word. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:9

Daily Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-14

What do you think it means that Gods disciple will procuce a harvest of peace in your life?

God promises us peace, but then gives us a command in vs. 14. What is it?

How does verse 14 relate to the promise of Matthew 5:9?

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As we are disciplined by God and strive to lead holy lives, we distance ourselves from sin. As we distance ourselves from sin, we distance ourselves from much of the pain and hurt that sin brings. We experience peace. For example, as we distance ourself from the sin of lying, we are free from the anxiety of being caught and have peace that we dont need to cover our tracks. But, peace with God doesnt end there, God calls us to extend that peace to others.

Talk With God:

Tell God about the anxieties you experience as a result of sin. Confess those sins to God and repent. Pursue Gods righteousness and pray for His peace and presence in your life today.

Daily Task:
Write this weeks memory verse down somewhere where you will see it several times today. Be reminded of the peace God has promised you and the peace He intends for you to have in your relationships with others.

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PEACEMAKERS: DAY 3
Memory Verse:
Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:9

Daily Scripture: Romans 12

Which of the beattitudes do you see played out in these verses?

How does the writer follow the command to live in peace with everyone?

What does it take to live at peace with others?

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We see several beattitudes in this passage. The call to be poor in spirit as well as pure in heart. The command to be merciful and to hunger and thirst for righteousness. But, all these attitudes reveal themselves in the way we treat each other. We are to be peacemakers. As far as it depends on you, live at peace with others. This includes people who dont like you. Peace may not come, but you are to do your part and pursue it.

Talk With God:

Tell God about the people in your life with whom you struggle to live in peace. Pray for them. Ask God to show you how to pursue peace in those relationships today.

Daily Task:
Have a monopoly set? Put a piece of monopoly money in your pocket. If not, put a die or other game piece in your pocket today. Monopoly often seems like a never ending game. It can seriously go on forever. Thats how pursuing peace can feel sometimes. We pursue it, they dont accept it, we snap, and repeat the process. Today be reminded the pursuing peace takes persistance. Pursue peace today even when its difcult and you dont see it going anywhere.

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PEACEMAKERS: DAY 4
Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: Ephesians 2

What do you think it means to be fellow citizens in Gods kingdom?

The church is called the family of God. How should we live with one another based on that description?

What is an example of peace in your church? What is an example of division?

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Jesus came to make peace between God and man. God intends for their to be peace between people as well. The place where this should be most evident is the church. God expects there for their to be love and unity in the church as a picture to the world of what He is like. How do you think we are doing?

Talk to God:
Take time today to pray for the church. Pray for leaders in the church. Pray for your friends. Pray for those who are on the outskirts. Pray that God would bring unity and peace to the church and use it to make a difference for Him.

Daily Task:
Set a family picture as your background. As you see your family today, pray for peace in your family, and pray that God would continue to work in the life of your church, making it like a loving family.

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THE PERSECUTED: DAY 1

Memory Verse:
Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that God would show you what it looks like to live in humility today. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:10

Daily Scripture: John 15:18-27

Why does Jesus say we will experience persecution?

In what ways are Gods ways different from the worlds ways?

Have you ever faced persecution for doing something right?

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The prophets were perseucted, Jesus was murdered, the disciples were harrassed. What you you think is coming our way. The truth is the way God has called us to live is radically different from the way everyone else lives. If we follow Jesus, we will make people uncomfortable and even angry. Dont be defeated by this fact. Rest in the fact that youre in good company!!

Talk with God:

Tell God about when you struggle to be different from the world and tend to blend in, instead of standing up for Gods way. Tell Him about the persecution that you fear. Ask God to give you the strength to be faithful to Him today, no matter what consequences you may face.

Daily Task:
As you go about the day. Practice saying the verses that you have memorized so far. As you practice them, remember that God has called you to live differently from everyone else.

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THE PERSECUTED: DAY 2

Memory Verse:
Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you through His Word. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:10

Daily Scripture: Acts 5:12-42

What did the disciples face as a result of following Jesus?

What was their response to persecution?

Why do you think they were able to respond in this way?

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What God is calling you to can feel like an impossible task. It is...Good thing God specializes in the impossible. A few days after Jesus died, all of these men were huddled in a locked room, scared to death. God gave them his Spirit, and it changed everything. That same Spirit and Strength lives in you today!!

Talk With God:

Thank God for the examples of spiritual strength He has placed in your life. Thank Him for giving you His Spirit. Commit to relying on His strenght as you live in obedience to Him today.

Daily Task:
Begin to memorize verses 11-12. Not how the disciples lived out Jesus command to rejoice in the midst of suffering.

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THE PERSECUTED: DAY 3

Memory Verse:
Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly. Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. ! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:10

Daily Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8-18

What examples of the beattitudes do you see in this passage?

How does Peter instruct us to respond to persecution?

What is your defense? What is the reason you have hope?

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Again, Peter writes that those who live our Jesus commands will face persecution. But, he adds something else. Often times, facing persecution provides an opportunity to share your faith. People want to know why you have hope when on the outside it appears like you are suffering. When we face persecution, we must look for opportunities God may be giving us to share about Him.

Talk With God:

Ask God to give you the stength to be obedient to Him today. Ask Him to show you when He is giving you an oppotunity to share His love with someone today.

Daily Task:
HOPE. What a great word!! Write it somewhere you will see today. On your mirror, in your car, on your hand. Through the ups and downs today, remember God is our hope and He never lets us go.

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THE PERSECUTED: DAY 4

Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: 2 Timothy 3

What warning does Paul give Timothy? Have you found this to be true?

What challenge does Paul leave Timothy with?

What does it mean for you to continue in what you have learned?

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Paul is blunt. It will sometimes be difcult to follow Christ. Persist. Keep Up. Don give in. It is worth it. No matter how hard it gets, no matter how weak you feel. A life lived for God is the greatist thing in the world. Hopefully, God has challenged you and grown you over the past 8 weeks. Continue in what you have learned.

Talk to God:
Thank God for what He has been doing in your life. Ask Him to continue to shape you into the image of Christ and use you for His Kingdom.

Daily Task:
Share the verses you have memorized with someone today. Share with them what God has taught you through these beattitudes. It can be someone who has gone through the study with you, a family member, a friend. Just be willing to share what God has done and is doing in your life.

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Vary memorization add background graphics Intro paragraph closing prayer

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