Devotionals for April 5, 2023
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READ
LUKE 8:13–15
And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.
REFLECT
This passage prompts us to reflect on the condition of our own hearts and how we can cultivate a heart that is receptive to the message of the Gospel. The source of our salvation is miraculous: the seed is the word of God. Jesus then notes how those who bear much fruit do so with patience and an honest and good heart. We see in the passage how a supernatural faith is worked out intentionally. Similarly, the church works out its faith, together, in a strategic and intentional way to patiently bear fruit for the Kingdom.
APPLY
Q: How do patience and a good heart relate to bearing fruit?
Q: How will you intentionally hold fast to the Word of God today to bear more fruit?
Q: Fruit blesses others. It sustains, feeds, and sweetens. Who can you bless today with the fruit of the Spirit?
SING
“Graves into Gardens” by Elevation Worship
PRAY
"Give us today our daily bread."
Lord, you and your word are all I need for today. Your Son showed me the way to a life filled with fruit. Help me to rely on Jesus, the Bread of Life, so I can pour myself out for others. Amen.
READ
LUKE 8:13–15
And the ones on the rock are those who, when they hear the word, receive it with joy. But these have no root; they believe for a while, and in time of testing fall away. And as for what fell among the thorns, they are those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by the cares and riches and pleasures of life, and their fruit does not mature. As for that in the good soil, they are those who, hearing the word, hold it fast in an honest and good heart, and bear fruit with patience.
REFLECT
This passage prompts us to reflect on the condition of our own hearts and how we can cultivate a heart that is receptive to the message of the Gospel. The source of our salvation is miraculous: the seed is the word of God. Jesus then notes how those who bear much fruit do so with patience and an honest and good heart. We see in the passage how a supernatural faith is worked out intentionally. Similarly, the church works out its faith, together, in a strategic and intentional way to patiently bear fruit for the Kingdom.
APPLY
Q: How do patience and a good heart relate to bearing fruit?
Q: How will you intentionally hold fast to the Word of God today to bear more fruit?
Q: Fruit blesses others. It sustains, feeds, and sweetens. Who can you bless today with the fruit of the Spirit?
SING
“Graves into Gardens” by Elevation Worship
PRAY
"Give us today our daily bread."
Lord, you and your word are all I need for today. Your Son showed me the way to a life filled with fruit. Help me to rely on Jesus, the Bread of Life, so I can pour myself out for others. Amen.