The Purpose Driven Life

A series of meditations & daily readings including memory verses and questions for reflection: Compiled by Pastor Philip Johnson

For Grove Lake Lutheran Church Pelican Rapids, MN Lent 2020

Thank you for joining us in these 40-days of purpose. This guide is a summary of meditations from the book “The Purpose Driven Life” by Pastor Rick Warren. The way you will benefit most from this 40-day journey will be by reading each of the meditations from the book on a daily basis, pondering the questions asked both in this booklet and in the book, and joining in a small group for the pur- pose of mutual discussion, prayer, and caring. I also suggest that you write your responses either in this booklet, or in the book, if you are reading it. Write down the thoughts that strike you as insights you haven’t thought of before. Also write any questions this reading brings to mind, or a challenge this thought places in your mind. Also, try to memorize the verse. If you are reading the book you will notice the memory verses come from a variety of transla- tions. For this booklet I have used exclusively the NRSV as it is the translation we use in worship. If you don’t read the book this summary will give you my re- flections and reactions. However, this booklet will not provide you with the spiritual challenge that time spent in the book would give you. Finally, and most importantly, use this guide as a way to focus your prayers. May God lead and bless you this Lenten Season. Pastor Philip Johnson

50 1 A Lutheran Companion to The Purpose Driven Life Pastor Rick Warren’s book is filled with wisdom, insight and Group Agenda helpful instruction for people of faith. I am delighted that you are 1.) The leader should welcome everyone present. Be sure to let reading this booklet and may even be reading the book itself along everyone know that others are welcome to join in this group in with me and I am confident that God will use it to help us grow. Now future weeks. Groups are not meant to be “closed,” A good way Pastor Warren is a Baptist minister. As a result there are some ideas to remember that is to make sure there is an empty chair in your and themes that we as Lutherans don’t agree with. In reading the group. In that way if someone walks in, they know there is a spot book, I earnestly hope that these issues won’t close your minds to that for them. Once the chair is filled be sure to pull up another one! which is good and helpful. But because some of the issues are Then pray that it be filled. significant, I felt it was important to comment on some of them. I also want to extend my thanks to ELCA Pastor Eric Burtness for his initial 2) Take the time to have each person in the group share at least draft of this Lutheran companion which I modified for this booklet. one “high,” (that is a good or positive event from the week) as On Pain, Suffering and Tragedy. In many places, Pastor well as one “low” from the week. Rick says that every aspect of our lives is determined by God, either directly (“He blended the DNA that created you.”) or indirectly 3) Review the theme for each reading by asking questions like: (“God deliberately allowed...”) This is one way, but not the only way A) What caught your attention from this reading? of dealing with the question of why we have pain, suffering and B) What surprised you or gave you a new insight? tragedy in our lives. I believe that it is not necessary to believe that C) Does anything from these readings inspire you to make everything that happens to us happens because God wants it to hap- a change in your life? What is it? pen. Some of the things we experience are the result of our own D) Reflect on the questions printed in this booklet for actions, not God’s. Even our own sins! Hence, what we say and what each of the readings from this week. we do matters! What we say and what we do affects us and those with whom we come into contact for the rest of our life. We should not 4) Conclude with prayer 15 minutes before your ending time by giving everyone the opportunity to offer prayer. Keep in mind blame God for suffering when suffering comes as a result of our own special circumstances that may have arisen during the group foolish and sinful choices. meeting. Hopefully everyone will pray something during the Additionally, some of the bad things that happen are the result prayer time. If their response is, “I pass” let it be. One thing I of other people’s sinful actions. There are 6 billion people on this would ask you to pray for is your empty chair, that it would be earth. If all of them are, at one time or another doing sinful actions filled the next time you meet. there are a lot of opportunities for people to suffer as a result of the sinful and foolish choices made by others. Thank you for your time spent in this 40 day journey Finally, some of the bad things that happen simply reflect the during the season of Lent. It is now holy week. A week to honor reality of the “brokenness” of creation. That is, we believe that the most important event in history. The crucifixion and creation itself no longer reflects the complete wholeness and goodness resurrection of Jesus. Our focus on these events allow us to that God first had in mind when creation was made. The results of sin remember again, “It’s not about me, it’s not about you. It is have caused creation itself to be broken. about God. Praise be to God that He loves the world so much that he gave us his own dear son!

2 49 The results of this brokenness are seen, for example, in the existence of genes that cause birth defects. As a result, we often don’t know if the suffering we experience was actually given to us by God or not. What we do Small Group Meetings know, and where I agree heartily with Pastor Rick, is that “… in all things, God is at work for the good of those who love him…” Thank you for being part of a small group. There are Romans 8:28. We know that God can not cause evil, but we also many different types of small groups. Some groups focus on know that God can and does work good even in the midst of evil. service such as the quilting group. Some small groups have a (You will find this issue arising on days 2, 12, 25, 30, 31 and 35.) focus on fellowship such as a bowling league. Some small groups exist for the purpose of learning, and some for the purpose of spiritual development, and prayer. Additionally, On Eternity. Rick believes that in eternity, we will each have some small groups are designed for a long life span and some for different rewards and different responsibilities, and that how we live a short life span. When you become a part of a group it’s good now will determine how much of each we receive in heaven. This to know what you are getting involved in. belief in various “rewards,” becomes, for Pastor Warren, a These groups are designed with a primary emphasis on motivation for serving and growing, as a way to “prepare for spiritual development and prayer during the season of Lent. You eternity.” will have opportunity to meet about 6 times and then it is I believe this idea is not well supported in the Bible. More expected that your life as a group will come to an end. importantly, even if it is true, it should not become a motivator for To gain the most from these few times of being together us to be involved in doing the work of God. If we serve others out it will be best if you focus your attention on the following agenda of a desire to gain rewards or status in heaven, or out of a fear that when you meet. Finally, it is very important that you have time for prayer we might lose these things, then our service is really self-serving. at the end of your study time. Please allow 15 minutes for such This “serve-us,” attitude (rather than service) is not Christ like at all! prayer. If you use all the time, well and good, if not, that is OK Jesus sets us free from greed or fear so that we can be motivated to too. Agree with everyone in your group when the starting time serve others through genuine love for God and others. (You will and ending time of each meeting will be. You each need to find this issue arising on days 3,5,15, 29 and others.) commit yourselves to this time frame in order for the group to work. I suggest a group time length of one and a half hours. On the Bible, the Word and Jesus. On Day 24 Rick writes (That means of course going beyond the normal time allotted for about the power of the word of God to make us more like Jesus. this gathering) The Bible says much about the power of “God’s Word.”

Unfortunately, many people use that phrase to refer exclusively to

the Bible itself. It is very important that we are clear about what the word of God is. First of all, the word of God is Jesus. For example, John 1:1 says “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God,... and the word became flesh and lived among us.”

48 3 Rick writes that “God’s Word generates life, creates faith, 4) What will be the communication of my life? What is my sto- ….brings things into being…” This is true of Jesus, the word of ry that can be shared with those who do not believe? God, especially as we remember the work of the Holy 5) What will be the community of my life? Where will you Trinity. For it is the Holy Spirit who generates faith. practice the “one another” commands of God. Secondly, the Word of God is also the proclaimed It may take weeks or months to write a purpose message of who Jesus is and what that means to us. In the days statement. Pray, think, talk and reflect on scripture. It is helpful of the early church saving faith was born in the lives of listeners to have both a detailed purpose statement and a shorter slogan that summarizes the five purposes in a way that’s memorable as the disciples proclaimed the word of God (the message of and inspires you. Remember to focus on God’s purpose for your Jesus) and people were converted. So there was faith, there were life, not your goals or plans, since they shift. One way to think Christians, there was even a church, long before there was a of that is, “What would you like on your tombstone?” or “What complete Bible! In fact the New Testament wasn’t compiled until would you like your family and friends to say about you at your hundreds of years after the church began. So, as you read the funeral.” Of course, the only thing that matters is what God devotion for this day, bear in mind that most of what Rick says says... about the Bible is actually more true of Jesus himself. For God wants to use you: Now, in this day, in this lifetime. example, “I must accept it’s authority,” becomes “I must accept The future is as bright as the promises of God. Christ’s authority.” With this in mind, Day 24’s devotion becomes a powerful call into personal relationship with the living Memory verse: Acts 13:36 David, ... served the purpose of God in his own generation... Lord, Jesus himself!

Yes, we as a Lutheran church do teach that the Bible itself is the Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a word of God, sometimes though, it is helpful to stress these small group: fundamental building blocks. For the Bible is not the focus of our worship. The triune God is! When will I write my purpose statement!

On Baptism. On Day 15, Rick writes about Baptism and says Are you willing to work with your church so that together this much that is true and helpful. However, this is a point on which may be a “Purpose Driven Church?” This takes a serious com- Lutherans and Baptists have always understood the Bible mitment of time, a willingness to learn from others, and a vision differently. We believe that baptism is much more than a for God’s work that is much greater than our own congregation. Remember. “It’s not about you...it’s also not about us. symbolic act. We believe that, in Baptism, God personalizes

God’s saving action. That is, when Jesus died on the cross he This is Holy Week. Although this booklet is completed died for the world (John 3:16). However, when you and I are we are just now entering the days in which we especially baptized God speaks individually to you and me saying: “The remember what God has done for us in Christ Jesus, His death and resurrection of Jesus is for you!” It’s one thing to know crucifixion and resurrection. As we share these days together in Christ died for the world, it is another to know Christ died for worship may the richness of God’s love and mercy embrace you you! these holy days. Then, may God’s love get us moving according to God’s purpose. 4 47 As a result we Lutherans (as well as many other Christians) Day 40: Sunday April 5 “Living with purpose” emphasize baptism as an action of receiving a precious gift from “Living with purpose is the only way to really live. God. In contrast, those of a Baptist tradition see baptism as their Everything else is just existing.” Most people struggle with three gift to God. questions: the first is identity, “Who am I?” The second is This is a fundamental reason why we will baptize infants, importance: “Do I matter?” The third is impact: “What is my while those of the Baptist tradition will only baptize someone place in life?” Jesus washed feet and said, “Now that I have who is older. This is also why those in the Baptist tradition do not done this, blessed are you as you do it too. Over the next few recognize our baptism as being valid. We, on the other hand, days develop a purpose statement for your life then review it recognize any baptism done by any believer, “In the name of the periodically. What is this? Father and of the son and of the Holy Spirit.” as being a valid,

one time occurrence that never needs to be repeated and can never 1) It summarizes God’s purpose for you: In my words I affirm God’s purpose for me. Not a list of goals, goals be reversed. Therefore, we will not re-baptize! (Nor can we are temporary, purpose is eternal. “un-baptize!) It comes down to direction. Lutherans see Baptism 2) A statement that gives direction in life: As I write as an action of receiving from God. The Baptist tradition sees this down it forces me to think of the path God has for baptism as an act of giving to God. me. Such a statement tells me what I need to do with I stress this point not so we can say, “We are right, and time, life, money etc. It also implies what I should not be they are wrong,” I stress this understanding of baptism because it doing with the same list of things. is fundamental to our identity and understanding of the faith. I 3) It defines what success is for me. consider this theology to be a precious gift that we as Lutherans 4) It clarifies my role. Roles can change, purpose stays. share with the world. It is also the basis upon which we do What role should I be fulfilling right now? evangelism. 5) It’s a statement that expresses my SHAPE. Finally, we must understand that Baptism is not a “work,” Guide for writing such a statement: Don’t do it all in one that we do that somehow obligates God to “save” us. Actually, setting. It takes time, give it time. Also, allow it to be flexible there is nothing we can do that obligates God! We can never do and editable. Ask these five questions. anything that gets God in a position of “owing” us. However, God in God’s goodness has done what we cannot do. God’s 1) What will be the center of my life: This is a question of what salvation took place when Jesus died on that cross so long ago. In you worship. Some options include: God, career, family, sport, that event God took upon himself the sin, judgement, and hobby, money, fun... Whatever is at the center is your god. brokenness of this world so that none of those things would 2) What will be the character of my life? This is a question of separate us from God’s love. God’s personal salvation was given discipleship. We take our character into eternity. List the to you in your baptism. When you were baptized into Christ character qualities you want to work on and develop in your life. 3) What will be my contribution? This is the question of service. Jesus you were baptized into his death so that just as Christ was Based on my shape what is the best role I can play in God’s raised from the dead by the glory of the father you too might live family? a new life. (Romans 6)

46 5 Finally, faith, is the trust and confidence that you and I have Day 39: Saturday April 4 “Balancing your Life” placed in God’s work through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord. From this faith, this confidence we have “Blessed are the balanced, they shall outlast everyone.” in God’s Grace, we can live a life of faithfulness to God. A life The best way to keep your life on balance is by joining a group of people who will help you be accountable. Another way is by filled with purpose and meaning. A life that is A Purpose Journaling. Purpose driven people have these habits: Driven Life. May God’s Peace and purposeful leading be with you. 1) Talk about life with a spiritual partner or group. We learn best in community. We are meant to grow Pastor Phil Johnson, together. Luther considered “conversation among the Interim Pastor, saints” as just as important as all other aspects of Grove Lake Lutheran Church Christian living. Ash Wed, February 26, 2020 2) Give themselves a regular spiritual check-up. Evaluate yourself periodically. Five times the Bible encourages us to test ourselves. P.S. A Note about the 40-days of Lent.

3) Write down progress in a journal. Writing helps The 40-day cycle of Lent that begins on Ash Wednesday clarify what God is doing. and concludes on Saturday before Easter Sunday is meant to be a time of spiritual growth and renewal. When the 40 days for 4) Pass on what you know to others. lent were set aside in the ancient church Sunday’s were always excluded because each and every Sunday was meant to be a Remember, it’s for God’s Glory. mini celebration of Easter, the Resurrection of our Lord. As a result, the forty days of lent can be a challenge to count. Memory verse: Ephesians 5:15 The following devotions follow a 7 day a week cycle. Be careful then how you live, not as unwise people but as wise,

Therefore, the 40-days of meditations conclude during Holy Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a Week. It is my hope and prayer, as this book of meditations small group: comes to a close, that Holy Week itself , with the reading of the passion narrative will provide for you and your loved ones a Which of the four activities will I begin in order to stay on track focus on the last days in the life of our Lord. Providing for us and balance God’s five purposes for my life? an opportunity to see again how God gave himself for the world in Christ Jesus our Lord. Who does God bring to your mind that you could share the life- changing message of “The Purpose Driven Life?”

6 45 Day 38: Friday April 3 “Becoming a world class Christian” Day 1: Ash Wednesday February 26 “It All Starts With God”

It’s your choice. “A world class, or worldly class It’s not about you. The purpose for your life is greater citizen.” Worldly ones look to God mostly for personal than your own personal fulfillment, peace of mind, or even your fulfillment. They are saved but self-centered. The opposite is own happiness, greater than family or career. If you want to true of world class Christians. (Or those on a journey of know why you were placed on this earth, you must begin with deepening and maturing faith) World class Christians are fully God. The way to find God’s purpose for you is through the Holy alive people. “There is nothing more important than the way Scriptures. By reading and praying over them we will discover: you think!” 1) Shift from self-absorbed to other-centered think- 1) Our identity and purpose comes through relationship to ing: “Think like mature people.” It is contrary to Jesus Christ. advertising. We must think a moment by moment 2) We do have many choices we can make; spouse, career, dependence on God. That is the work of the Spirit. hobbies etc. But we have no choice over God’s purpose Also, we need to ask for God’s spiritual guidance. for us. It was there before we were born. 2) Shift from local to global thinking: Praying for 3.) The purpose for our life fits into a large, cosmic pur- other countries. Prayer is the most important tool for pose. God’s eternity. mission. Pray for opportunities to witness, courage to speak up and spread God’s word. Another way is Memory verse: ...all things have been created through him and through mission trips. for him.” (Col 1:16b) 3) Shift from here and now thinking to eternal think- ing: We must maintain an eternal perspective. Shift from thinking of excuses to thinking of creative ways to Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a fulfill your commission. small group:

Memory verse: Psalm 67:2 What do you think are implications of the first sentence of the That your way may be known upon earth, book, “It’s not about you”? your saving power among all nations. Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: What part of your life message has God given you to share with Despite all the advertising around me, how can I remind myself the world? that life is really about living for God, not myself? What steps can you take to prepare for a short-(or longer) term mission experience in the next year?

How has reading the book “The Purpose Driven Life” helped re-shape your life purpose?

44 7 Day 2: Thursday February 27 “You Are Not an Accident” Day 37: Thursday April 2 “Sharing Your Life Message” “You are not an accident. Your birth was no mistake or mishap. Your parents may not have planned you, but God did.” There are four aspects of your life message: God made us as we are with all the gifts, abilities, and 1) Testimony: How God began a relationship with you. personality that are us. Even the things we might regard as In a court room a witness tells their story. You have a story. If flaws are things mysteriously under God’s rule. You were you don’t tell it, it will be lost. Unbelievers see pastors as created as a result of God’s love for you. God wishes to use the “professional salesmen” therefore you have more credibility! uniqueness of who you are to carry out his divine purpose in 2) Life Lessons: Are the most important lessons God has you. taught you. These don’t have to be personal experiences; they In this devotion Pastor Rick implies that God had can be the experiences of others! There isn’t enough time–nor everything to do with creating me and you and if we don’t can we take the pain of learning by error! Write down major life accept that we might as well accept that we are a total accident. leaning so you can share them with others. I personally find this to be an extreme thought that does not take What has God taught me through failure, lack of money, seriously God’s wonderful creating activity in the midst of the depression or sorrow, through waiting, disappointment, illness, fall and evil. For instance, I don’t believe all things about me how about from my family, church, relationships, critics? are the way God wants them to be! I can accept that God has 3) Godly passions: God is passionate. As you grow given me both strengths and weaknesses as part of his closer God will teach you passion about something God loves. consider weaknesses because God has made us unique. God gives you passions to speak for a cause, or a people. However, I also need to recognize an ungodliness resides deep 4) The Good News: That is, the message of salvation is within me. This ungodliness the church calls original sin. God’s most important statement. “If you have been afraid to When we do not acknowledge this part of ourselves it becomes share the Good News with those around you, ask God to fill your too easy to deceive ourselves and even call evil good. For this heart with his love for them.” What am I willing to do so that the reason, confession of sin and the hearing of forgiveness is of people I know will go to heaven? Invite them to church? Share vital importance to both new Christians and those of maturing this book, take them a meal, pray for them daily.... Don’t miss the faith. That does, however, bring us back to this verse. opportunities God gives. Of the 5 purposes, only the fifth will be finished in this world. The other 4 continue through-out eternity. Memory Verse: Isa 44:2 Thus says the LORD who made you, who formed you in the Memory verse: 1 Peter 3:15-16 womb and will help you: Do not fear, O Jacob my servant, Always be ready to make your defense to anyone who demands Jeshurun whom I have chosen. from you an accounting for the hope that is in you; 16 yet do it with gentleness and reverence Question for prayerful reflection on your own, with a part- ner, or in a small group: Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: Knowing that God uniquely created you, what areas of your personality, background, and physical appearance are you As I reflect on my personal story, who does God want me to share struggling to accept? it with?

8 43 Day 3: Friday February 28 “What Drives My Life” Purpose # 5 You Were Made for A Mission Everyone’s life is driven by something. Some lives are Day 36: Wednesday April “You were Made for Mission” driven by a need for success and the desire for wealth. Others God wants us to have a ministry and a mission. Ministry may be driven by problems, painful memories, fear, etc. There is for God’s people, those within the church. Mission is to those are hundreds of circumstances, values, and emotions that can outside the church. Fulfilling your mission on earth is an drive your life. Some of these emotions include; fear, essential part of living for God’s glory. resentment, anger, or the need for approval. In these 40-days we It is a continuation of Jesus’ mission on earth. will see what it means to be driven that is, guided, directed, and The commission is given to every follower Matthew 28 19-20 controlled by God’s purpose for your life. The advantages of Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and being driven by God’s purposes are: teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. 1) It keeps me from being driven by other things such as: And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age. guilt resentment or anger This is not the great suggestion, it is, rather, a commission. fear 1) We have a responsibility for the unbelievers around us. materialism 2) It is a privilege to work with God and for God. need for approval 3) Telling others of the promise of eternal life is the 2) I receive the benefits of being purpose driven: greatest thing you can do for them. Sharing this greatest meaning in life news is the greatest kindness we can show anyone. a simplified life 4) Your mission has eternal significance. It impacts the eternal destiny of others. So, it’s more important than a preparedness for eternity. job. Nothing you do is more important than helping Memory verse: Isa 26:3 people in relationship with God. Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace— 5) Mission gives you meaning in life. “The best way to in peace because they trust in you.

use life is to spend it on something that outlasts it.” If we Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a fail in this, we will have wasted life. There are people that small group: only YOU can reach. What do you feel drives the lives of most people? Memory verse: Matthew 28:19-20 (above) What has been the driving force in your life? Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: What would my family and friends say is the driving purpose in my life? What fears have kept me from fulfilling the mission God made What would I want them to say? me to accomplish?

42 9 Day 4: Saturday February 29 “Made to Last Forever” Day 35: Tuesday March 31 “God’s power in your weakness”.

This life is not all there is. “You will spend far more time God loves to use weak people. When speaking of in eternity than what you do here.” When we realize this, we will weaknesses, we are not talking about things you can change. live life differently. Pastor Warren uses this meditation as a The unfortunate thing about this is that what is changeable in reminder that in this life there are many choices we make. There one person is not in another, or at least not easily changed in another. are only two eternal options: heaven and hell. “If you learn to love The blessings of weaknesses are 1) They help us depend and trust God’s Son, Jesus, you will be invited to spend the rest of on God, 2) They keep us humble, 3) It encourages fellowship. eternity with him. On the other hand, if you reject his love, We need each other. (Strength breads an independent spirit). forgiveness, and salvation, you will spend eternity apart from God 4) They give us sympathy in ministry. forever.” He says, “Short term thinking has been the most Honestly Admit Your Weaknesses. Own up to imperfections. damaging aspect of contemporary living.” Stop pretending you have it altogether. Be Content with Your Weaknesses. Our weaknesses help us Who goes to heaven and who goes to hell has always been rely on God, they keep us from becoming arrogant and keep our one of those questions of which people of faith have wrestled? In ego’s in check. Weaknesses also keep us in fellowship with Luther’s small catechism he says, “On the last day the Holy Spirit other believers because we need one another. Weaknesses also help in our relationships with others. As we learn to understand will raise me and all the dead and he will give me and all believers our weaknesses and limitations. We also receive the ability to be in Christ eternal life.” (Explanation to the third article of the patient with others in their limitations. They have weakness creed). I like the way Luther avoids a blanket category of who they can’t do anything about too. Their weaknesses are different goes to hell. This is something that belongs to God. What than yours. belongs to us, and to our witness is this statement of faith, “he will give to me and all believers in Christ eternal life.” Memory verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9 He (Christ)said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, Memory verse: 1 John 2:17 for power is made perfect in weakness.” The world and its desire are passing away, but those who do the will of God live forever. Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group:

What do I need to be honest about in order to help others? Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: Because of eternity, what is one thing I should start doing How have you seen God’s power demonstrated through you and one thing I should stop doing? (This obviously leads to when you felt weak? another question: “Then why am I not doing it now!”)

10 41 Day 34: Monday March 30 “Thinking Like A Servant” Day 5: Sunday March 1 “Seeing Life From God’s View” Service starts in the mind. This requires a change in attitudes. God is interested in “why” we do something as well The way you see your life shapes your life. How you as “what we do.” Real servants have a Godly mind set. define life determines your destiny. Your perspective will Servants think more about others than about themselves. influence how you invest your time, spend your money, use Servants focus on others without thinking less of themselves. your talents, and value your relationships. They just think of themselves less often. This is what it means to With what comparison would you describe life? Some “lose your life.” When we stop focusing on our own needs, and have said, life is like: a circus, a journey, a dance, a roller we become aware of the needs of others. A reality in this world coaster, a puzzle... The important thing to realize is this. “How of ours is that a lot of service is self-serving. We do it to others you see life influences your expectations, your values, your so that we would be rewarded, or feel good, or be admired or relationships, your goals and your priorities.” If you believe life achieve our own goals. In these cases, service becomes is a party how does that influence your day to day decisions? manipulation, not ministry. Real service is not natural. Pastor Warren encourages us to see life under three Servants think like stewards, not owners. First thing: Biblical metaphors. God is owner. The most important thing a servant needs to 1) Life is a test: The word test appears 200 times in the remember is that a servant must be faithful to their master. It’s Bible. We have the stories of Adam & Eve, Abraham, Joseph, not that you “should not” serve God and money, you cannot! etc. Testing does two things to us. It both develops and reveals Servants think about their work, not about what character. How do you live even when you don’t feel God’s others are doing. They don’t’ have time to compare because presence with you? The Good News is God wants us to grow they are too busy doing the work God gave them. “Real servants from and pass every test! don’t complain of unfairness, don’t have pity-parties, and don’t 2) Life is a trust: Our life, the resources we have in our life resent those not serving.” They just trust God and keep serving. and the resources we have around us are a trust given by God. Servants base their identity in Christ. We must settle God has entrusted to us the management of all God has made. our identity in Christ. Only secure people can serve self-less-ly. Our culture says, “If you don’t own it, you won’t take care of it.” Insecure people are either going to worry about how they appear The Christian has a higher standard. “Because God owns it, I to others, or they will compare themselves to others. “The must take the best care of it I can.” closer you get to Jesus the less you need to promote yourself.” 3) Life is a temporary assignment. (Next reading) Servants think of ministry as opportunity, not obligation. Memory verse: Philippians 2:5 Memory verse: Luke 16:10 Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and Let the same mind be in you that is in Christ Jesus whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much.

Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: small group: What has happened to me that I now realize was a test Am I usually more concerned about being served or finding from God? What are the greatest matters God has entrusted to ways to serve others? me?

40 11 Day 6: Monday March 2 “Life Is a Temporary Assignment” Day 33: Sunday March 29 “How Real Servants Act” We serve God by serving others. The world values those Life on earth is a temporary Assignment. Two important who control. Power, position, prestige, and possessions are the truths come from this reality: first, compared with eternity, life is way the world measures success. Jesus on the other hand said extremely brief. Second, earth is only a temporary residence. greatness comes from service. The primary way we serve must One of the results of these truths is the reality that we will never be according to our SHAPE, however, when a need comes up that completely feel “fulfilled,” here in this life. We will always have we can do, our first call is to service. No special talent or gift is longings that will never be fulfilled this side of eternity. We are required to stay after a meeting to pick up trash or stack chairs. not completely happy here because we don’t belong here. Earth Anyone can be a servant. So what are the qualities? is not our home! Another reality is this. We must not think the promise of “fullness of life,” means material prosperity or popular Real servants make themselves available to serve. This means success. Rather, it is life in fellowship with God and God’s our agenda’s must be flexible. God might call upon us to help purpose. someone just when we think we need to get “somewhere else.” Real servants also pay attention to needs: We might not get a Memory verse: 2 Cor 4:18 second chance to offer help. The need maybe simple or profound. We look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be It might be an individual or a group, organization or government seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen Real servants do their best with what they have. We must not is eternal. wait around for the right conditions. On the other hand, it doesn’t have to be perfect, but does need to be authentic service. Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a Real servants do tasks with dedication. It requires all our heart. small group: Real servants are faithful to their ministry. That is they

It has sometimes been said of Christians, “They are so complete their task, they are faithful to the commitment at hand. heavenly minded they are no earthly good.” I think there Real servants maintain a low profile. Jesus criticized the are some spiritual dangers in thinking of this life as a mere Pharisees because they did good for show. temporary assignment. What could those dangers be? Memory verse: Matthew 10:42

If everyone understood that life on earth is really Whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones preparation for eternity, how would we act differently? in my name truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.

How should the fact that life on earth is “a temporary Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a assignment” change the way I am living right now? small group: Which of the six characteristics of real servants offers the greatest challenge to me? What have you been attached to that could keep you from Living for God’s purpose?

How do these questions speak to the larger question, “What drives you?”

12 39 Day 32: Saturday March 28 “Using what God Gave you” Day 7: Tuesday Mar 3 “The Reason for Everything”

God wants us to serve him with our best. Therefore, we “It’s all for God.” The ultimate goal of the universe is to discover our SHAPE in order to serve in a way that brings out show the glory of God. It is the reason for everything that exists, our best, bring a sense of pride, and is least likely to cause including you. You were created for God’s good pleasure. To a frustration. The best way to assess our ability is by serving in certain extent all things in creation reveal God’s glory. From the various areas. There are lots of tests out there, but they tend to wonder of a small seed that can give life, to the beauty of a baby, work in reverse, that is, they try to assess us, then tell us what all things reveal the greatness and wonder of God. we should do. A better way is to experiment by serving in ways The greatest wonder of God is that God became a part of that look appealing. Understand this, you have many different our world through the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus. On talents and abilities. It is important that you learn to serve the other hand, only two things in creation fail to give glory to within the context of those abilities. (This is why many people God. change jobs at the age of 30+ They discover they have abilities 1) Fallen angels (the devil and his court) and in areas of their life they haven’t been using) 2) Humans. We fail to give God glory because of sin. You also need listen to your heart and personality. In “All have sinned and fall short of the Glory of God.” this way we can accept and enjoy our own SHAPE. It is a gift God has given us. If we try to serve in areas outside of our So how can we bring God glory? shape we will only end up with frustration. At the same time, 1) Through worship, it is our first responsibility to God. we must realize there will be people who have shapes close to 2) Through loving other believers who belong to the ours, who work and serve in areas that are like ours. We must family of God. be open to learning from one another without comparing 3) By becoming Christ-like, from maturity in spirit. Our ourselves to one another. Comparing can cause us to feel either: model is Jesus who served by washing the feet of his “I’m better than they...or “I’m not as good as they.” Either way disciples. we end up putting someone else down or putting ourselves 4) By serving others with our gifts. God calls us to act down. Comparing isn’t helpful. Learning is. where our gifts meet the needs of the world. 5) We bring glory to God by telling others about him. Memory verse: 1 Timothy 2:15 Who are you going to live for? That is the most important Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved by him, question that faces us this Lenten season. Will we live for a worker who has no need to be ashamed, God or for ourselves? rightly explaining the word of truth. Memory verse: Romans 11:36 Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a For from him and through him and to him are all things. small group: To him be the glory forever. Amen.

How can I make the best use of what God has given me?” Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: How can I become more aware of God’s Glory?

38 13 Day 31: Friday March 27 “Understanding Your Shape” Purpose # 1 You Were Planned for God’s Good Pleasure SHAPE language began yesterday. Having spoken of S-for spiritual gifts and H- for heart, we now move to A-bilities. Day 8: Wednesday March 4 “Planned for God’s Good Only You can be you. Your abilities are the natural gifts God Pleasure”. gave you when you were born as well as what you have done since God wanted you alive and your birth brought God that time to develop some of the abilities you have been given. pleasure. The first reason for your life therefore is because your Spiritual gifts are given to believers in God, abilities are given to life brings pleasure to God. You are a child of God and each everyone. Each blend of abilities is unique in each person and child is precious in the eyes of their parents. As a result, your you have many more abilities than you will ever use. The key is to life has tremendous significance simply because you can give give thanks to God for the abilities you have. To understand they God your love. Bringing pleasure to God is called worship. are there for giving praise to God, and to realize that we have Psalm 147:11 says: enough of them so we can use the ones we have a special interest The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, in. We are also given freedom. Therefore, we don’t have to in those who hope in his steadfast love. develop every ability we have. Public worship is done with other people. In the Personality Your personality is unique, Celebrate it! Lutheran church worship includes confession of sin and Experience Is also unique for each person. Each of us is receiving of forgiveness, giving praise to God through song and shaped by our families, education, vocational experiences, liturgy, hearing God’s word through scripture and preaching, spiritual background, all the ministry that we have already done, offering to God prayers and gifts, receiving God in a very and other experiences. Some experience is good, some is painful. physical way through the sacraments of Baptism and Holy All of these things, plus our individual DNA help shape us as a Communion. person. The painful experiences are often key experiences that Worship is also personal through devotions. We give us a special ability to serve God. I don’t want to say, “God “devote” ourselves to God through prayer, reading, and causes painful experiences.” What I do know is that God works reflection. all things for good for those who love God. Therefore, the painful Worship is not for our benefit! We don’t worship for experiences we have experienced can serve God’s mission and what, “we get out of it” We worship because God wants our ministry and bring fullness of life for us. worship. Worship is also not part of your life. It is your life. “Whatever you do, do it in the name of God.” All of life is Memory verse: 1 Peter 4:10 worship. Luther said, “A dairymaid can milk cows to the glory Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one of God.” The secret to worship is doing everything as if for God. another with whatever gift each of you has received.

Memory verse: Psalm 149:4 Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a The Lord takes pleasure in His people small group: Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: What Common task could I start doing as “What God-given ability or personal experience can I offer to my if I were doing it directly for Jesus? church?”

14 37 Day 30: Thursday March 26 “Shaped for serving God” Day 9: Thursday March 5 “What Makes God Smile?”

You were shaped to serve God. Everything about you; One pastor said, “The smile of God is the goal of your body, mind, psychological make-up, emotional strength, and life.” So, what is it that makes God smile? There are five actions more all come together to make you who you are. This also of worship that accomplish this: makes you different from everyone else. This unique SHAPE is 1) When we Love God supremely: God loves you and something that God delights in. Your SHAPE is also unique there is nothing better we can do than love God back. God because no one else can serve God the way you can. What is desires a relationship with you. meant by SHAPE? 2) When we Trust God completely: Trust is an element of faith, “faith is the assurance of things hoped for,” It S= Spiritual gifts, means we can move forward in life with confidence in H= Heart, God’s goodness and love even if, at the time, we are facing A= Abilities some terrible things in life. P= Personality 3) When we obey God wholeheartedly: Obedience is E= Experience. something we are good at compromising. We are better at obeying God when we want, rather than obeying God in all Spiritual gifts are given only to believers. “Those who things. Yet God desires complete and joyful obedience! are unspiritual do not receive the gifts of God’s Spir- 4) When we praise and thank God continually: The it” (1 Cor 2:14) The gifts of God are given to you. You amazing thing about this is that when we bring this pleas- don’t get to choose what they are. At the same time, they are not ure to God it comes back to bless us. given for your benefit, they are given so that the community of 5) God Smiles when we use our abilities: Anything that faith can be built up and so the ministry to all people can be we do that is not sin brings pleasure to God. So, fix the served. There are different gifts, but only one God is served. car, paint the trim, write a poem, clean the floor, wash the Read 1 Corinthians 12 for further information on spiritual gifts. dishes, cook the meal, remodel the house, love your Heart Your heart is where your passion is. When we spouse, sing a song, etc. God loves it when we use our speak of serving God it must be according to where our abilities! ambitions lie, and where our hopes and dreams are formed. As we serve God in the long haul it must be a service of things Memory verse: Psalm 147:11 which we love to do. This way we can serve God with our heart. The LORD takes pleasure in those who fear him, Memory verse: 1 Corinthians 12:6 in those who hope in his steadfast love. There are varieties of gifts, but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone. Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: Since God knows what is best, in what areas of my Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a life do I need to trust God the most? small group: “In what way can I see myself passionately serving others and loving it?”

36 15 Day 10: Friday March 6 “The Heart of Worship”

The heart of worship is surrender. It is an unpopular word. Purpose #4 Disliked almost as much as the word submission. The word is used almost exclusively to define a negative situation. A criminal You Were Shaped for Serving God surrenders to authorities. In a war the defeated side surrenders. Yet true worship happens when you give yourself to God. Romans Day 29: Wednesday March 25 “Accepting Your Assignment” 12:1 I appeal to you therefore, brothers and sisters, You were placed on earth to contribute. You weren’t just by the mercies of God, put here to consume (Contrary to what our advertisers say). This to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, ministry of service is spoken of many times in the Bible. holy and acceptable to God, 1) You were created to serve God. Eph 2:10 “You were which is your spiritual worship. created in Christ Jesus for good works,” God has prepared us for good deeds–service. Pastor Warren writes pages of material on what it means to 2) You were saved to serve God. You don’t serve God surrender. It is some of his best writing. He wants us to out of guilt, fear, or even duty, but out of joy and deep understand that we all surrender to something. One of his points is gratitude for what God has done for us. You are healed to there is a moment of surrender (this, of course, is a strong Baptist heal...blessed to be a blessing. emphasis). A time when you make a conscious decision that your 3) We are called to serve God. Every Christian is called life will be led by God’s will and purpose for you. One Christian to service. An oxymoron is a “non-serving Christian.” man put it this way, “I actually wrote out a contract and it said, 4) You are commanded to serve God. Jesus said, “I did “From this day forward I am a slave to Jesus.” Then he signed it. not come to be waited upon, but to serve.” Service is just That was the moment. the opposite of “serve – us.” Mother Teresa said, “Holy For many Christians, and I suspect most Lutherans, there is living consists in doing God’s work with a smile.” the practice of daily surrender. That is, daily living dedicated to God. Luther spoke of this kind of surrender as something rooted in Such service fulfills God’s purpose in us for today, it our baptism, (as opposed to being rooted in our giving our life to makes this world a much better place in which all of us can live. God). He called it a daily “dying to the old self and rising to the Finally, It prepares us for eternity. Heaven is also a place of new life born in us in Christ.” Luther always points us to God as service. It is joyful service to God. the source of all that really matters.

Memory verse: Romans 6:13b Memory verse: Ephesians 2:10 ...Present yourselves to God as those who have been brought from For we are what he has made us, created in Christ Jesus for good death to life, and present your members to God as instruments of works, which God prepared beforehand to be our way of life. righteousness.

Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: small group: What areas of my life do I hold back from God? “What is holding me back from accepting the call to serve God.” Which tradition most closely reflects your identity before God. The Baptist tradition of a day of surrender, or the Lutheran tradition of daily dying and rising? What is the value of each tradition? 16 35 Day 28: Tuesday March 24 “It Takes Time” Day 11: Saturday March 7, “Becoming Best Friends with God” There are no shortcuts to maturity. It takes a full season for the fruit to mature. It takes time for the fruit of the Spirit to ripen. It is amazing to me that “Friendship with God” is a theme that God is patient with us. We need to face some facts: starts out so mushy and ends up being developed so well in his 1) We are slow learners: We often need to learn the same book. Prayer is us talking to God. It is also more. It is listening thing repeatedly. Some of us never do get it! as well. Prayer as meditation, is less understood. Meditation is 2) We have a lot to unlearn: Let’s face it. We learn a lot close to worry. The difference though is the focus of our about life from some pretty terrible sources. The internet, attention. Worry is a focus on self. The problems of the self, the TV–both the programing and the commercials. There are world of the self, etc. Meditation on the other hand, is a focus on also other sources; music, movies, electronic games, God. God’s word, desire, and goal. When we learn to focus in billboards, newspapers, magazines, and all the stuff we this way God begins to share secrets the same way friends share. hear and see around us. Much of what we learn is not very Maybe secret isn’t the right word, it would be better to say that godly. God takes us into God’s confidence. That is, God begins to trust 3) We are afraid to humbly face the truth about us well enough to know when certain things should be said and ourselves: Luther said we were at the same time “Saint when they should not be said. and Sinner.” The sin part of us is too often something we Pastor Warren’s question “What is something I can do to would like to deny or simply pass off as not important. The remind myself to think about God throughout the day?” is exactly importance of recognizing our sin cannot be overstated. why people started wearing a cross, or the rosary beads, or the 4) Growth is often painful and scary: There is no growth WWJD bracelet. Such jewelry can become a reminder of the one without change, no change without fear, no fear without in whom we are in relationship. The important thing is the loss, no loss without pain. It’s easier to say, “That’s just friendship, not the jewelry. the way I am,” than it is to do the work of change. We can wear signs of our love for God. In faith we also 5) Habits take time to develop: Your character is the understand that God gives us signs of his love as well. In bread sum of your habits. To stop bad habits is hard, to develop and wine he gives us his body and blood with the promise of and hold on to new ones is just as hard. forgiveness of sins and new life. In the water of baptism he 6) Believe God is in your life even if you don’t feel it! gives us a sign of his eternal promise. “You have been joined to 7) Keep a notebook or journal of lessons learned. the death and resurrection of Jesus.” 8) Be patient with God and with yourself Memory verse: Psalm 25:14a 9) Don’t get discouraged. The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear him,

and he makes his covenant known to them. Memory verse: Philippians 1:6 I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ. small group:

Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a What can I do to remind myself to think about God and talk to small group: God more often throughout the day? In what area of my spiritual growth do I need to be more patient How is friendship with God like any other friendship, and how is and persistent? it different?

34 17 Day 12: Sunday March 8, “Developing Your Friendship With Day 27: Monday March 23 “Defeating Temptation” God” There is always a way out. God has promised never to allow more ON you than he puts WITHIN you to handle it. You are as close to God as you choose to be. Like any 1) Refocus your attention on something else. The key friendship it doesn’t happen by accident. It takes desire, time, and is this. You can’t resist temptation. Especially you can’t resist it energy. Some important ways we deepen friendship with God are: by trying to not think about it, that usually causes us to think of it more. That’s way diets don’t work. People think about food 1) To choose to be honest with God. God doesn’t expect us all the time! One solution is “replacement” Satan can’t get your to be perfect, but God does expect honesty. Many passages attention if your focus is on something else. In this regard we of scripture even reveal God’s people expressing their need to monitor our media intake. Your mind is your most disappointment in God! (Psalm 22, 44, 88 etc.) vulnerable organ. Keep your mind occupied with God’s Word. 2) Reveal your struggle to a Godly friend or group. 2) To obey God in faith: We may not think of obedience The model for this kind of caring are the multitude of 12 step and friendship as going together but they do when we think programs that are available. The first one of course was for the of Jesus. He said, “You are my friends if you do what I treatment of those who were alcoholics. command.” Pastor Warren developed an eight-step program. For help in dealing with temptation. 3) To choose to value what God values: What is it that Jesus 3) Resist the devil. The Bible often speaks of Christian valued? He wanted all people to be in relationship with life as a battle against the evil forces. God. Therefore, friends of God tell other people about their 4) Realize your vulnerability. Don’t place yourself in friendship with God. tempting situations. What I appreciate about this section is something that is 4) To seek friendship with God that is authentic. The lost to much of the church today. That is a concern for the Psalms use words like this to describe our desire for God: seriousness of sin. Our culture too often sees sin as something yearning, thirsting, hungering. God is passionate about and to be embraced! “Go on! Indulge yourself!” is the message we for you. Therefore, God calls us to value our relationship hear in so many ways! Sin is a reality that needs to be taken with God more than anything else. seriously.

Memory verse: 1 Corinthians 10:13b Memory verse: James 4:8a God is faithful, and he will not let you be tested beyond your Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. strength, but with the testing he will also provide the way out so that you may be able to endure it. Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: small group:

“Who can be my spiritual partner.” A person who will help me What practical choices will I make today in order to grow closer to defeat a persistent temptation by praying for me.” God?

When is it appropriate to express anger to God?

18 33 Day 26: Sunday March 22 “Growing Through Temptation” Day 13: Monday March 9 “Worship That Pleases God” “Every temptation is an opportunity to do good.” On the path to maturity temptation becomes a steppingstone rather than a God wants all of you. God wants all your heart, soul, stumbling block. To help discern what a temptation is look to what strength, and mind. God desires your full devotion not is opposite of a temptation. Begin with the fruits of the spirit of part. Therefore, the following is true: God. “Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.” Temptation comes in the form of 1) God is pleased when our worship is authentic. When opposites to these qualities. We are tempted to be unloving when we worship God looks past our words to see the attitude we are dealing with unloving people. When we are tempted to be of our heart. God gave us a heart, or emotions, so we unfaithful then we are put in the position of having to make a could worship God with feeling. God gave us minds so choice. So temptations are opportunities for God as well as we could worship with thoughtfulness. God gave us temptations to go against God’s will and purpose. bodies so we could be gathered together to praise God Temptation proceeds as follows: 1) Desire: Either we are with our body. And God gave us a soul that our worship tempted to misuse a God given desire, or we desire that which is would be from the essence of who we are. God also gave wrong. Temptation then, comes from within, it is internal, not us a will so we could worship intentionally. external in its origin. 2) Doubt: We begin to doubt that it is wrong.

We go through self-justification. 3) Deception: The tempter uses 2) Worship must be practical: For this to be true we must half-truths and half statements to deceive us. 4) Disobedience: do it with our body. You have heard people say, “I can’t That is, we give in. make it to the meeting tonight, but I’ll be with you in To overcome temptation: spirit.” Do you know what that means? Absolutely noth- 1) Refuse to be intimidated. We will always be tempted, ing! It’s worthless. Your spirit can only be where your in fact, Satan targets godly people. body is! To offer a sacrifice of worship first means we are 2) Recognize your pattern of temptation and be present in body. Of course, that sacrifice is more obvious prepared for it. Avoid situations that bring temptation. to us when we are tired, or worn out. 3) Request God’s help. That is, pray. Remember God

tempts no one! Although the Lord’s prayer does say, “Lead Memory verse: Mark 12:30 us not into temptation,” better translation would be, “Do not You shall love the Lord your God bring us to the test.” Think of the way Jesus was tested or with all your heart, and with all your soul, tempted by Satan. and with all your mind, and with all your strength. Memory verse: James 1:12

Blessed is anyone who endures temptation. Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a Such a one has stood the test small group:

Which is more pleasing to God right now, my public worship or Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a my private worship? What will I do about this? small group: What Christlike character quality can I develop by defeating the most common temptation I face?

32 19 Day 14: Tuesday March 10, “When God Seems Distant” Day 25: Saturday March 21 “Transformed by Trouble”

God is real no matter how you feel. Friendships are often “God has a purpose behind every problem.” No one is tested when you are divided by physical distance or you are unable immune to pain or insulated from suffering. Some people are to talk. God doesn’t always “feel” close. The fact is, for many very fortunate in not having many problems, others are loaded people God feels quite distant. I don’t know why this is, but I do with problems. It doesn’t seem fair. Yet God can use whatever know it is a reality. Sometimes God feeling distant is related to problems we face to show us his love and build us up. I will not what we have been doing in our lives. Sin causes us to feel say God causes the problems, I will say God loves you amid separated from God. Confession is good because it wakes you up them, and God wants you to grow closer to God in the midst of to God’s presence even if you don’t feel it. Additionally, when we them. This is not automatic. Some people become bitter, some fail to worship, God will feel distant. lose heart and faith. God has said he will be with you in all However, I, and probably you, have experienced many things and he will protect you in such a way that nothing evil can times when God feels distant, even absent! When that happens we separate you from God’s love. can really feel alone. When that happens, we must cling to God’s In times of trouble it is good to remember that God’s word, to God’s promise. For God is here whether we feel God or purpose for you, God’s hope for you, is much bigger than the not! trouble you are experiencing. You can respond. A major problem develops in our Christian life when we 1) Remember that God’s plan is good. This is true begin to think, “an experience with God,” is what verifies God’s even if what you are experiencing now is not good. Jesus reality to us. Experiences are good. I encourage opportunities that being crucified was not good. What God did with that allow people to experience the closeness and wonder of God. was good. Retreats, camps, special gatherings are some ways in which God 2) Rejoice and give thanks. This seems impossible. Yet may give this gift to you. On the other hand, we run into a danger Paul said we should give thanks IN all circumstances, not when we seek “an experience of God,” rather than seeking to FOR all circumstances. There is a big difference! worship God. The fact is God doesn’t want us to trust our 3) Refuse to give up. Let God to be your strength. emotions, God wants us to trust God. 4) Refuse to give up your identity as a child of God. If you are being abused by another person you may need Memory verse: Hebrews 13:5b God’s strength and the protection given by community For he has said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.” and laws. Your story needs to be told. Memory verse: Romans 8:28 Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a We know that all things work together for good small group: for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose How can I stay focused on God’s presence, especially when God feels distant? Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: Share something you learned from a time when God felt distant? What problem in my life has caused the greatest growth in me?

20 31 Day 24: Friday March 20 Transformed by truth. Purpose #2

The truth transforms us. Spiritual growth is the process You Were Formed for God’s Family of replacing lies with truth. To become more like Jesus we must fill our lives with the word of God. God’s word is unlike any Day 15: Wednesday March 11 “Formed for God’s Family” other word. It is a lively word. God’s word doesn’t just announce things, it causes them to be. Therefore, we need to God wants a family and God wants you to be a part of it. receive it, read it, research it, remember it, reflect on it and act God treasures relationships. God is identified as a relationship of on it. “Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” God doesn’t need the relationship of people, God does, however, desire a relationship with you and 1) Accept the authority of the word. The Bible is the all people. The beginning place of being part of the family is written word of God and I must accept its authority. It baptism. If you are not baptized already allow this time to be the also means I must read it and reflect on it with invitation for you to be baptized into Christ and into the Christian seriousness. family. When we place our faith in Christ, we then honor God as 2) Assimilate its truth. In order for this to happen we our Father, and we hear ourselves being named as God’s children. need to devote time to reading the Bible. We must not Other believers become our brothers and sisters, and the church becomes our spiritual family. The family of God includes all deceive ourselves into thinking that watching 3-hours of believers; past, present, and future. As a result, your spiritual TV can be balanced by 30 seconds of Bible reading! family is even more important than your physical family because How we fill our minds is extremely important. If you it will last forever. Our families are wonderful gifts, but children read the Bible 15 minutes a day you can read the Bible in grow up and leave the home. Loved ones in our family, such as a year. There are many good ways this can be done. parents and grandparents die. Additionally, family relationships

are often separated by great physical distances and sometimes Memory verse John 8:31-32 they are separated by great emotional distances. On the other

hand, our spiritual family will be there forever. Both in this life If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you and in the age to come. will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.

Memory verse: Ephesians 1:5 Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a He destined us for adoption as his children through Jesus Christ, small group: according to the good pleasure of his will.

What has God already told me in his word that I haven’t started doing yet? Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group:

How can I start treating other believers like members of my own

family?

30 21 Day 16: Thursday March 12 “What Matters Most” Day 23: Thursday March 19 “How We Grow” Life is all about love. Because God is love, the most im- portant lesson God wants you to learn on earth is how to love. To God wants you to grow. You were not meant to remain love unselfishly is not easy. It runs counter to our self-centered as spiritual children. Spiritual growth is an intentional nature. God calls us to love everyone and especially, God calls us commitment that is not automatic. You must want to grow, to love a particular people. The members of God’s family. This decide to grow, make an effort to grow, and persist in growing. is the second purpose God has given us. God wants us to be It is at this point that most people miss God’s purpose for known for this characteristic more than for anything else. In them in their life. Many people refuse to make a commitment to order to do this, we must be in close fellowship with other anything, others make only halfhearted commitments, still others believers. make commitments to the wrong things like worldly goals. The 1) Life without love is worthless. Relationships are more choices you make are important, so move with God’s Spirit. important than achievements or the accumulation of 1) God’s part and your part: Christlikeness is the result things. Here is a good formula. Life minus love equals of making Christlike choices depending on God’s Spirit zero. to help you fulfill these choices. You will need to let go 2) Love will last forever. When Paul wrote to the church of old routines and develop new habits. You need to in Corinth he said, “Faith, hope, and love abide... The change the way you think. This is not how to be saved, it greatest is love.” This is true because in eternity faith is is about how you grow in God’s Spirit. It is not about fulfilled, hope is fulfilled, but love...love continues, love is earning God’s favor, it is about growing in fellowship eternal. with God. 3) We will be evaluated on our love: The essence of love 2) Changing your autopilot: To change your life you is not what we think or prove for others. It is best spelled must change the way you think. “As you sow a thought T-I-M-E. The best measure of love is not flowers or gifts. you reap an action, as you sow an action you reap a habit, It is, rather, focused attention. To love is to give up my as you sow a habit you reap a character....As one thinks own preferences, comfort, goals, security, money, energy, so one goes.” We must change our “automatic .... for the sake of someone else. The best time to show settings.” (Or to use computer language, our default love is NOW. You don’t know what tomorrow will bring. settings). The reading on p. 181 is very good at addressing this. The way you think determines the way Memory verse: Galatians 5:14 you feel, and the way you feel influences the way you For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, act.” “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Memory verse: Romans 12:2b Be transformed by the renewing of your minds, Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a so that you may discern what is the will of God small group: Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: In all honesty, are relationships my first priority? How can I What is one area where I need to stop thinking my way and start ensure that they are? thinking God’s way? What barriers in you keep you from loving other believers?

22 29 Day 17: Friday March 13 “A Place to Belong” Purpose # 3 You Were Created to Become Like Christ You are called to belong, not just to believe. Even in the sinless environment of Eden God said, “It is not good for man to Day 22: Wednesday March 18 “Created to Become like live alone.” We are created for community. While our Christ” relationship to God is personal, it is not meant to be private. A You were created to become like Christ. God’s purpose finger severed from the body cannot live...At the same time, has to do with character development, not career placement. when the body loses a finger, it too suffers...even though it can God’s purpose does not mean a narcissistic focus on me survive and adapt. However, a body without fingers, or hands, or achieving my goals or getting rich or whatever. We are not to arms or feet or legs, is a handicapped body. think our purpose is making things comfortable for us on earth. Why you need a church family: Heaven is a goal, but for now there is work to be done. To be 1) You will be identified as a genuine believer. made like Christ means to follow as did Christ. 2) Church moves you out of self-centered isolation. 1) God uses God’s word, people, and circumstances to Only in contact with ordinary, imperfect believers, can mold you. God’s word first of all is Jesus himself. For we learn real fellowship. Jesus is in a living relationship with you. God also uses 3) Develops spiritual muscle–conditioning and God’s word, the Bible, as a way to bring you the truth coordination. God wants us to “_____for one another.” you need to know in order to become like him. God uses The “blank” is filled with 50 different words in the Bible; people around you, both those inside and those outside love, pray, admonish, greet, serve, teach, accept, honor, the church. Finally, God’s Holy Spirit works through forgive. The list goes on. circumstances and events in your life. All of these, plus 3) The body needs you. Your role is your ministry! your response to all these things, help shape you. 4) Sharing in the mission. Teamwork to reach the 2) Becoming like Christ is a long, slow process. You world. are a work in progress that will take all the years of your 5) Keeps us from backsliding. The body of believers life. God is much more interested in who you become keeps us from sin by providing accountability. than in what you do for a living, or your career, etc. Those decisions God gives to us to make. God certainly Memory verse: Romans 12:5 cares about them, it’s just that God is much more So, we, who are many, are one body in Christ, concerned about your character than any of those other and, individually, we are members one of another. issues. Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a Memory verse 2 Corinthians 3:18b small group: And all of us, ... are being transformed into the same image... for this comes from the Lord, the Spirit. Does my level of involvement in my church demonstrate that I Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a love and am committed to God’s family? small group: What are the most common excuses people give for not joining a “In what areas of my life do I need to ask for the Spirit’s power church, or being uninvolved, and how would you answer them? to be like Christ today?”

28 23 Day 18: Saturday March 14, “Experiencing Life Together” Day 21: Tuesday March 17 “Protecting the Unity of the Church”

Life is meant to be shared. This is a wonderful reflection It is your job to protect the unity of the church. The New on the need for real fellowship where people share with one Testament gives more attention to this than to either heaven or another who they are authentically. hell. God deeply desires harmony among God’s people. It is the In real fellowship people experience authenticity: It is a soul of fellowship. place where we are genuine, not superficial and talk can be heart Just as parents want their children to get along with one to heart, gut to gut, without fear of betrayal. Too often the church another so also God desires unity. Jesus prayed earnestly for unity lacks this sense of genuine authenticity. It requires courage and just before his crucifixion. honesty. When courage and honesty are missing authenticity will Our culture reflects the need for unity. The Civil war was be absent as well, and the system will feel “unhealthy.” fought in order to protect the unity of the nation. That is how In real fellowship people experience sympathy: That is important unity was. Just like the nation, the church is more people feel they are being understood and cared for. threatened by other sheep than it is by the wolves. Keys: In real fellowship people experience mercy. When we are 1) Focus on what we have in common, not differences. hurt by someone we have three choices. One is to retaliate that is, One Lord, one body, one purpose, one father one spirit, to get even. Secondly, we can withdraw by removing ourselves one hope one faith one baptism...” from the fellowship. The third option is the best. It is to move 2) Be realistic with expectations. There is a gap between toward resolution into forgiveness. There is a tremendous need the way the church is and the way it should be. Live in the for forgiveness! Forgiveness allows us to stay connected so that tension! Believers will let you down, but that is no reason trust can once again be developed. There is a difference between to stop fellowship. forgiveness and trust. Forgiveness has to do with the past, trust 3) Choose to encourage rather than criticize. It’s very has to do with the future. We need to forgive the past, then, trust possible that your criticism interferes with God’s business. can be built over time. 4) Refuse to listen to gossip. Gossip is passing on information when you are not part of the solution or the Memory verse: Galatians 6:2 problem. Listening to gossip is as damaging as saying it. Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way Have the courage to cut it off. you will fulfill the law of Christ. 5) Practice God’s method of conflict resolution. Go first Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a to the person, then, if needed bring a third party, then use small group: the larger group. Always the purpose is for reconciliation.

What one step can I take today to connect with another believer at Memory verse: Romans 14:19 a more genuine heart to heart level? Pursue what makes for peace and for mutual up building. Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a What would make it easier for you to be able to share your small group: needs, hurts, fears, and hopes with others? What am I personally doing to protect unity in my church family right now?

24 27 Day 20: Monday March 16 “Restoring Broken Fellowship” Day 19: Sunday March 15 “Cultivating Community”

Relationships are always worth restoring. Because life is Community requires commitment. A commitment to about loving, God wants us to value relationships and maintain setting time aside to be together as well as a commitment to them instead of discarding them when there is a rift, hurt, or certain principles and actions. conflict. You must learn to be a peace maker; not by avoiding 1) Honesty. Without honesty there is superficial conflict or running from problems, not by appeasement or interchange. We need to be frank without feeling we have always giving in, but by seeking reconciliation. Never be a license to say anything. ashamed to be the first person to move toward reconciliation! 2) Humility. A great quote: “Humility is not thinking less Biblical steps for restoring fellowship... of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less.” 1) Talk to God before talking to the person. Pray! 3) Courtesy. Manners matter. What brings us together is 2) Always take the initiative. It doesn’t matter who’s not compatibility but Christ. Therefore, we also need to be “at fault,” God wants you to make the first move! courteous to one another–even though we may be dealing 3) Sympathize with feelings. Use your ears more than with difficult people. your mouth 4) Confidentiality. What is said needs to stay within the 4) Confess your part of the conflict. Don’t make group in which it is said. Gossip kills everyone. excuses or rationalize or trivialize your behavior. 5) Frequency. Community is built on an intentional 5) Cooperate as much as possible. getting together of people, not just when it is convenient. 6) Emphasize reconciliation, not resolution. Agreement may not be realistic. It might be fine to There are 9-characteristics of Biblical fellowship: simply agree that you don’t agree with one another. 1) Authenticity- we share true feelings. 2) Mutuality- we encourage each other. 3) Support- (sympathy) for on another. Memory Verse: : Romans 12:18 4) Forgive one another- (show mercy). 5) Honesty-speaking the If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, truth in love 6) Humility 7) Respect differences. live peaceably with all. 8) Confidentiality–not gossip. 9) Frequency– we make the gathering a time priority.

Question for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a Memory verse: 1 John 3:16 small group: We know love by this, that he laid down his life for us —and we ought to lay down our lives for one another. With whom do I need to restore a broken relationship today? Key point: Relationships are almost always worth restoring. Questions for reflection on your own, with a partner, or in a small group: What are the steps you need to take to accomplish this? How can I help cultivate today the characteristics of real Can you think of a time where seeking to restore a broken community? relationship might cause more harm than good? What can I (we) do to protect and promote unity in our church?

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