the STORY of GOD & us. JOURNAL
During the better part of this next year, we’ll be journeying together through God’s amazing story. This journal will help guide us, as well as be our journal log. For each week, you’ll find several story guides. The Message Notes are pages for each Sunday’s sermon. As this is a story in sequence, we’d recommend tracking with us each week. If you happen to be away or can’t join us in person, listen online for that leg of the journey. You can use our CCC Sumter app or go to our website at www.cccsumter.com/messages.
The value of taking notes is hard to measure. Use this page to jot important points or the most challenging messages God speaks to you. Come back to those notes throughout our journey to see where we’ve been. At the bottom of the Message Notes pages you’ll find a prayer of reflection. Don’t let it become simple “white noise,” but read it carefully and use as a model for your own prayer. Each week you’ll also see a S-T-O-R-Y page, an acrostic that is a model for you to look at Scripture passages on your own. We strongly encourage you to explore God’s story on your own. The questions listed for each passage aren’t short answer questions. They are a pattern of questions that will help you understand more about God, more about your part in God’s story, and more about how you should now respond. At bare minimum, we’d encourage you to walk through the passage on the S-T-O-R-Y page each week. You’ll also find at the bottom of each week’s scripture page four more passages in the section, For Further Study. If you’re looking for a Bible study plan, this might be a good place to start. Or, if there is a particular week you’d like to look at more Scripture, these are suggested passages that relate to that week’s part of the big story. You can find blank journals at CCC which you could use to record more of the S-T-O-R-Y format for these passages.
ENJOY THE STORY! 1
SERMON SCHEDULE We Love a Good Story...An Introduction CHRONICLE 1 : MADE WELL
The Goat Imago Dei And He Said…
CHRONICLE 2 : ONE BAD APPLE
The Rebellious Nature of Sin Paradise Lost CHRONICLE 3 : PROMISES, PROMISES
RE:Everything The Power of a Promise
CHRONICLE 4 : SET FREE
The Long Pain of Bondage Deliverance CHRONICLE 5 : THE 3-LEGGED STOOL
The Law The Tent The Sacrifices
August 2 August 9 August 16 August 23 August 30 September 6 September 13 September 20 September 27 October 4 October 11 October 18 October 25
CHRONICLE 6 : KINGS & PROPHETS
Kings and Kingdoms “Thus says the Lord” Voices of Hope
CHRONICLE 7 : LEANING FORWARD
There Will Be a Future There Will Be a Day There Will Be a One
November 1 November 8 November 15 November 22 November 29 December 6
CHRONICLE 8 : GOD WITH US
Just Like What Was Said The Humility of Humilities God Walking Among Us
December 13 December 20 December 27
CHRONICLE 9 : LIKE WE’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE
The Authority of Jesus The Wisdom of Jesus The Integrity of Jesus The Love of Jesus
CHRONICLE 10 : LET THIS CUP PASS
Debt Cancelled Who Was Barabbas? The Comeback Victory
CHRONICLE 11 : GOD NOW HAS HIS PEOPLE
The New Covenant The Law of the New Test Our Helper
CHRONICLE 12 : AND THEY NOW HAVE A PLACE
We Rarely Talk About This Heaven For Now A Physical Heaven Curse Undone Look What God Just Did!
January 3 January 10 January 17 January 24 January 31 February 7 February 14 February 21 February 28 March 7 March 14 March 21 March 28 April 7 April 14
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AUGUST 2
We Love a Good Story NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, as I move forward looking closely at this amazing story, remind me regularly this is Your story and I am but a role player in it. Shine a bright light on Yourself each day of this journey, and help me learn more about You. As i find myself in the reflection of Your light, help me also see myself honestly and in the way You view me. And may I be a better reflection of You to the world around me. Tell Your story well through me, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Luke 8:26-39
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Psalm 71:17-19 1 Chronicles 16:8-12
Psalm 66:5-7,16 Deuteronomy 4:9-10 5
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AUGUST 9
THE GOAT
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NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father in heaven, I echo Your Word from James that says, “Every good perfect gift comes from You.” You are the source of every good, because You alone are good. Help us to see Your goodness and glory through the wonder of creation and return that praise to You—always being reminded of your supernatural power majesty and greatness. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Genesis 1:10
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Job 12:7-10 Psalm 104:1-35
Psalm 95:1-5 Colossians 1:15-16 7
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AUGUST 16
IMAGO DEI
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NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, Your love for me existed even before You formed me in my mother’s womb. You knew me and set me apart for Your special purpose long before I was born. Help me to have a deeper understanding of this truth, so that I might continue to live out my purpose in the shadow of Your love. In the mighty name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Genesis 1:26-27
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Genesis 1:28-31 Ephesians 2:10
Psalm 8:1-9 Romans 1:20 9
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AUGUST 23
And hE SAID...
W E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, You speak, and it is so. Speak to me, so that I may not only hear, but that I may know with everything in me, that You are God. Help me in my unbelief, and my selfishness, that I may not get lost in this moment, thinking that I could add anything of true value to this life, and that everything of real long lasting weight, is only because You spoke and it was so. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Genesis 1:3
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Hebrews 11:1-3 Isaiah 40:3-8
Psalm 33:6-12 Isaiah 55:10-11 11
C H R O N I C L E
2 : O N E
B A D
A P P L E
AUGUST 30
THE REBELLIOUS NATURE OF SIN NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, as I have seen from your Word this week, I am part of a people who is not easily satisfied. I crave things of this world, things I see with my eyes, and by choosing those things I do not choose You. I constantly seek to be my own god and serve myself. Remind me always that I am not You, nor can I ever be. Forgive me when I fall short. Thank You for extending grace to me in my moments when I am weak and self-serving. Thank You for rescuing me when I make a mess of Your grace. As I look to you this week, make me humble in my approach. May I be surrendered to Your will. May I bow my knees to You before I bow my knees to myself. Thank You for Your grace and goodness, and for allowing me to be part of Your story. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Genesis 3:1-7
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Psalm 51:1-5 Romans 3:9-18
Mark 7:14-23 Romans 3:14-24 13
2 : O N E
B A D
PARADISE LOST
A P P L E
SEPTEMBER 6
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Lord, You created a perfect environment for me. You extended grace to me just by making everything beautiful, and giving me the privilege of being a caretaker of the Creation. Being cast out of that first garden was never Your plan for us. Our rebellion deserved even worse than that. Thank You for continuing to extend grace to me and not giving up. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Romans 5:12
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Genesis 3:8-24 Proverbs 29:1-6
Romans 8:19-22 Genesis 3:21 15
3 : P R O M I S E S ,
P R O M I S E S
RE:Everything
SEPTEMBER 13
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, thank You for second chances. I thank You that You have reconciled, redeemed, and restored me – and that You allow me to have a part in Your story. Help me display Your glory as I am being remade. I look forward with the hope of being fully and finally remade into the image of Your Son, Jesus. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Genesis 6:8
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Genesis 6:5-7,11-12 Colossians 1:19-22
Jeremiah 18:1-6 2 Corinthians 5:17-19 17
3 : P R O M I S E S ,
P R O M I S E S
THE POWER OF A PROMISE
SEPTEMBER 20
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Abram who by faith in Your Word has become the biblical example of a man who believed in the Word of the Lord – and who simply trusted in the promises of God. Thank You for the Bible and the many precious promises and truths that it contains. Help me to listen to Your voice and obey Your call – to Your praise and glory. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Genesis 12:1-3
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Genesis 6:4-7 2 Corinthians 1:18-22
Joshua 21:43-45 Hebrews 10:19-25 19
4 : S E T
F R E E
THE LONG PAIN OF BONDAGE
SEPTEMBER 27
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, throughout the Bible You have been known as a Deliverer. You delivered Your people out of constant situations in which they faced peril, suffering, oppression, and calamity. As I have been reminded this week, You, God, were faithful to Your people as they fell into Egyptian captivity. You delivered the nation of Israel out of Egypt. God it is so easy to read Scripture and to only see Your works as individual acts, but let me see bigger than that. God give me a more complete perspective of Your heart. Father, while You long to deliver Your people, more than that You want us to be Your people. God, may I not be a person that leans on You or runs to You only in spurts, but rather that I would always be one of Your own people. May we all be men and women after Your own heart. Thank You for restoring, redeeming, and rescuing me. Thank You for allowing me to be a part of Your story.
S T O R Y
cripture Exodus 6:7
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Psalm 73:21-26 Psalm 121:1-8
Isaiah 41:10-13 Deuteronomy 31:6 21
C H R O N I C L E
4 : S E T
F R E E
OCTOBER 4
DELIVERANCE NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, so many times, I’ve held onto my hardened heart, with my fingers gripped so tightly that I could never let go. I’ve treasured my own will, my own desires, and have walked with blind eyes to the true light around me. May You open my eyes, so that I may see You for who You truly are. You are the Deliverer, the only One who can set us free from ourselves and this sin that so deeply entangles us. May we turn to You, the only One who breaks chains, and sets us free. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Exodus 7:2-5
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Exodus 12:1-13 Romans 6:15-16
Exodus 12:33-36 John 8:31-34 23
C H R O N I C L E
5 : T H E
3 - L E G G E D
OCTOBER 11
THE LAW
S T O O L
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Our Perfect Law-Giver, Your commands to me are refreshing and life-giving. I need boundaries, and what You are protecting is beautiful and priceless. Please do in me what I can’t do myself, by helping me love Your commandments, obey with joy, understand Your way even better, find freedom in submission, and hold firmly to the truth of Your word. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Exodus 20:1-3
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Psalm 119:8 Psalm 119:47
Psalm 119:45 Matthew 5:17-18 25
5 : T H E
3 - L E G G E D
THE TENT
S T O O L
OCTOBER 18
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, thank You for caring enough about me to reveal Your presence to me. I thank You that Your presence is available to me at any time through the Lamb that was slain. Where You once dwelled in a tent, You now dwell in all who have put their trust in Your Son by Your Spirit. Help me to listen to and walk in Your Spirit wherever I go. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Hebrews 9:6-9
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Leviticus 16:1-6 Acts 17:23-24
Hebrews 10:19-20 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 27
5 : T H E
3 - L E G G E D
S T O O L
THE SACRIFICES
OCTOBER 25
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Lord Jesus, thank You for shedding your blood so that we can be forgiven. You have paid the high price my sin, a price that I was unable to pay. Father, Your love for us is so incredible that You were willing to send Your Son to free me from my sin. By the shedding of Jesus’ blood we can enter into Your presence. Thank You that You desire for us to know and have a relationship with You. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Hebrews 9:21-22
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY 1 Chronicles 21:18-24 Hebrews 10:1-4, 10
Leviticus 4:1-7 1 Peter 1:17-19 29
6 : K I N G S
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KINGS & KINGDOMS
NOVEMBER 1
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, daily I have the choice to do things my way, or Your way. Daily I choose out of convenience, whatever feels best, whatever comes more natural, or is easiest for me. But every time I choose my way, in my own life I try to take the crown off of You and make it my own. I choose to make myself king of my life. I ask You to show me my selfishness, show me who You are. You are King and Lord over all, and You alone are worthy to be Lord. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture 1 Samuel 8:4-7
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Exodus 19:5-6 Luke 1:26-33
1 Samuel 8:18-22 Revelation 19:1-7 31
6 : K I N G S
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P R O P H E T S
“THUS SAYS THE LORD”
NOVEMBER 8
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Lord, these four simple words should be enough to direct me to obedience and surrender. I confess I sometimes shake them off as a meaningless introduction to something I know is important. I admit my own failure to allow the power of these words to grip me. “Thus says the Lord” should be all I need to hear to convince me of the truth, significance, and power of what follows. Move me steps closer to that awareness. In the name and by the word of Jesus, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Deuteronomy 18:20-22
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY 2 Chronicles 36:15-16 1 Thessalonians 2:13
Mark 12:1-8 Hebrews 1:1-4 33
6 : K I N G S
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P R O P H E T S
VOICES OF HOPE
NOVEMBER 15
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS In my darkest of days, O Lord, I find Your light shines the brightest, if I’ll only look. I often find myself disliking the harsh warnings You give, but please help me also hear the hope-filled promises. Through my trials, teach me dependence on You and companionship with other Jesus-followers. Though You have every right to turn Your back on me, thank You so much for not abandoning me and simply starting over. I won’t take the hope You give for granted. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Lamentatians 3:21-24
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Jeremiah 29:1-13 Micah 4:1-8
Ezra 34:11-13 Joel 2:1-13 35
7 : L E A N I N G
F O R W A R D
THERE WILL BE A FUTURE
NOVEMBER 22
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, please open my eyes to the direction of my life, so that my intentions to follow You lead me to the destination of intimacy with You and a mature faith in You. I ask that You constantly give me strength to not grow weary in righteousness. Also, Lord I pray You would grant me wisdom to lean forward and align my heart with Your heart and pattern my priorities after Yours. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Deuteronomy 30:15-20
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Joshua 24:14-15 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
Matthew 7:24-27 Galatians 6:7-9 37
7 : L E A N I N G
F O R W A R D
THERE WILL BE A DAY
NOVEMBER 29
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Heavenly Father, You have promised that a day is coming that You will make everything right. As I wait for that day and Your return, help me to be prepared. Give me strength and resolve that I will not be caught unprepared when You return. Help me understand that my life on this earth is only a brief vapor, and what You have in store for those who surrender their life to You is so much more abundant than anything we will experience in this lifetime. Help me seek You first everyday – transform me more into Your image, so that I can walk in a manner worthy of Your calling. In the mighty name of Jesus, I pray, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Malachi 4:4-6
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Isaiah 2:12 Joel 2:11-14
Isaiah 27:12-13 2 Peter 3:3-10 39
7 : L E A N I N G
F O R W A R D
THERE WILL BE A ONE
DECEMBER 6
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Jesus, I need to live more each day with anticipation of Your soon coming. Except for those three years when You lived out Your ministry on earth, Your people have always been called to look forward to Your coming. As I await Your coming again, my eagerness will drive me with joy to be prepared for seeing and experiencing You like never before. Your promises are great, but it’s Your presence that means everything. Come, Lord Jesus, come.
S T O R Y
cripture Isaiah 9:6-7
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Isaiah 9:2-7 Psalm 2:1-12
John 1:19-34 Isaiah 53:1-12 41
8 : G O D
W I T H
U S
JUST LIKE WHAT WAS SAID
DECEMBER 13
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, help me see through the fullness of time, You gave words that prophesied and proclaimed Who was to come, and what was to be. Every moment was prepared for the coming of the King of kings. Help me open my eyes to the wonder of the fulfillment of Your preparations, to bring us to a place where we can know You are Lord of all. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Matthew 1:22-23
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Micah 5:2 Zechariah 9:9
Isaiah 7:13-14 Psalm 22:12-18 43
8 : G O D
W I T H
U S
THE HUMILITY OF HUMILITIES
DECEMBER 20
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Lord Jesus, as I prepare to celebrate Your birth, I pause and remember today that by coming to earth, You went from a royal throne to a cradle in a feeding trough. Your humility is astounding, and it’s embarrassing for me when I consider the trivial things I complain about. Thank You, thank You, thank You for demonstrating the greatest surrendering of Yourself. As a servant is no greater than their Master, I should expect no better for myself. Jesus, in Your own words, “It is enough for the disciple that he become as his Master.” Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Isaiah 53:2-3
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Philippians 2:5-11 John 13:2-11
Luke 2:1-7 Matthew 11:28-30 45
8 : G O D
W I T H
U S
GOD WALKING AMONG US
DECEMBER 27
C H R O N I C L E
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, thank You for sending Jesus to reveal who You are. There is no one that ever lived a life like Jesus. I pray You’d fix my eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter, the creator and completer of everything I believe in. May Jesus be the center of all I do today and every day. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture John 1:14
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY John 5:18-23 John 15:5-10
Colossians 1:15-19 Luke 22:66-71 47
CHRONICLE 9:LIKE WE’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE
JANUARY 3
THE AUTHORITY OF JESUS NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Heavenly Father, I surrender this day to You. I stand in awe of You. When I think of the life and ministry of Your Son, I see that He has power over everything. I pray that I would live in a healthy fear of Your mighty power, knowing that You are in control. Lord, I have confidence in You, because I know that You are my anchor in the storm. Jesus, I surrender to You today every fear, every worry, knowing that You are my strong tower. As I plant myself firmly into the bedrock of Your unconditional love, help me walk in full assurance that You will never leave me nor forsake me. Thank you, Lord, that nothing takes You by surprise because You are in authority over everything! In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Mark 1:22-27
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Matthew 8:23-27 Matthew 28:18-20
Mark 2:1-12 Mark 10:42-45 49
CHRONICLE 9:LIKE WE’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE
JANUARY 10
THE WISDOM OF JESUS NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, every day I long for You to open my eyes to see how amazing You are. Continue to reveal to me, through Your Word, the vast everlasting wisdom that only comes from You, and how that wisdom was shown to the world through Your son Jesus. Help me Holy Spirit to see deeper than the words on the pages, and to truly understand how great You are. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Matthew 13:53-56
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Titus 3:3-7 1 Corinthians 1:18-25
Colossians 2:1-3 Matthew 7:24-29 51
CHRONICLE 9:LIKE WE’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE
JANUARY 17
THE INTEGRITY OF JESUS NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Lord Jesus, words fail me in explaining all there is to be thankful for about You. Today, I thank You for the integrity of how You lived. Your speaking out against hypocrisy rings true because You lived out what You spoke. Through every area of Your life, You lived without contradiction. Your lifestyle is impeccable. Thank You for the perfect example You left me with. In seeing Your life, I find everything I need to know about how to live my own. Make me like You. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Hebrews 4:14-16
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Hebrews 7:23-28 1 Peter 2:21-25
1 Peter 1:17-21 2 Corinthians 5:21 53
THE LOVE OF JESUS
JANUARY 24
CHRONICLE 9:LIKE WE’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Jesus, I’ve never seen love to the depth of Yours. Not even close. Thank You for not drawing a line and saying, “I won’t love you beyond this.” Thank You for not setting a limit and saying, “I won’t put up with more than this.” Thank You for not considering the pain and saying, “Not if it gets this bad.” You loved Your disciples to the end, and You still love us incredibly well. I simply have no way of understanding the depth of it. The greatest thing that could be said about me is that I’ve loved You to the end. Grow that kind of love in me. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture John 13:1
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY John 15:12-13 Romans 5:6-8
Luke 23:33-43 John 21:15-17 55
CHRONICLE 10:LET THIS CUP PASS
JANUARY 31
DEBT CANCELLED NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Jesus, thank You that contained in Your story is the greatest moment of relief in human history – the good news that we don’t have to live in guilt and shame. Lord, I trade ashes for beauty, judgment for freedom, because of what you have done for me. May I never grow cold in my gratitude or proud in my circumstances. For grace and mercy today and every day forward, thank You Jesus. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Colossians 2:9-14
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Romans 6:20-23 Luke 7:40-50
2 Corinthians 5:21 Galatians 5:1 57
WHO WAS BARABBAS?
FEBRUARY 7
CHRONICLE 10:LET THIS CUP PASS
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father God, thank You for sending Your Son to pay a debt for my sin. You have ransomed me, and I ask that You forgive me of my sins, that You would give me strength to not sin against You. Help me learn to forgive others the way You have forgiven me. Help me to surrender to You the strongholds in my life, because I know it is only through Your power in my life that that I can overcome my weaknesses. It was my sins that nailed You to the cross, but Your amazing love and blood set me free. I thank you for Your love, mercy and grace that set me free. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Mark 15:6-15
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Mark 15:16-21 Mark 15:33-41
Mark 15:22-32 Isaiah 53:4-5 59
THE COMEBACK VICTORY
FEBRUARY 14
CHRONICLE 10:LET THIS CUP PASS
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Risen Savior, You are all I need. Your resurrection teaches me this week that victory is always your end result. As my undefeated Lord, You bring hope and peace no matter what I walk through. Thank You for that same authority that You also place over my life. If there are areas in me that I have kept hidden from Your power, please open my eyes to what You desire to do. Raise me up along with You. In Your name and for Your purpose, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture 1 Corinthians 15:53-58
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Matthew 28:1-10 Philippians 3:7-11
Mark 16:1-3 Acts 4:1-2 61
THE NEW COVENANT
FEBRUARY 21
CHRONICLE 11:GOD NOW HAS HIS PEOPLE
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, help me know the depravity that I live in every day, and to also know that You are making all things new. Help me see Your redemption in everything. Help me see, through Your eyes, the restoration of the world, and that everything will be good again. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Hebrews 8:6
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Jeremiah 31:31-34 Hebrews 9:23-28
Hebrews 8:7-13 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 63
THE LAW OF THE NEW TESTAMENT
FEBRUARY 28
CHRONICLE 11:GOD NOW HAS HIS PEOPLE
NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Jesus, I can’t begin to thank You for the times that I live in. It’s not just the material blessings and the inventions that I experience. It’s also the spiritual season I live in, and the new law You put before me. The simplicity of loving other people seems so simple, but the degree You’ve called me to love them with is impossible. Like You’ve loved us? But with Your help, with You within me, and with Your example set before me, I can. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture John 13:34-35
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Matthew 5:17-20 Matthew 5:38-42
Matthew 5:27-32 Galatians 6:1-2 65
CHRONICLE 11:GOD NOW HAS HIS PEOPLE
MARCH 7
OUR HELPER NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, thank You that Your Holy Spirit is alive and dwells in each of us. By Your Spirit, You have torn down divisions, You are changing hearts, and the world will never be the same. Help me live each day expecting Your Spirit to empower me as a vessel for Your light everywhere I go. Help me remember that You are with me always and I am never alone. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture John 16:7
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY John 16:8-15 Ephesians 1:11-14
Acts 2:1-21 Ephesians 4:30 67
CHRONICLE 11:GOD NOW HAS HIS PEOPLE
MARCH 14
AND HE COMES TO GET THEM NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Coming Lord, I live with open hands concerning the future. While I often feel powerless, I know You are not. Nothing will happen outside Your control. Thank You for not abandoning Your people, though I know I have abandoned You frequently. Thank You for Your present work in building a perfect place for us to dwell with You forever. I look forward to the Day, because I look forward to You. Again, come Lord Jesus. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Matthew 24:1-14 Matthew 24:36-41
Matthew 24:15-31 1 John 3:1-3 69
CHRONICLE 12:AND THEY NOW HAVE A PLACE
MARCH 21
HEAVEN FOR NOW NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Heavenly Father, I am so thankful that You have prepared a place for those who love You. Lord, when I think about Your kingdom and Your glory, I know that what you have in store for me is so unconceivable that I cannot understand. Thank You for making a way, preparing a place and loving me enough that You would call me Your child. Thank You for the glimpses of Your goodness and Your kingdom that You have revealed to me. Help me to see this crazy world from Your perspective, with Your heart, so I can see the people You created in Your image and love them like You love them. Then, may they see Your image reflected in the way I live, so they would see Your kingdom. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture 1 Corinthians 2:6-10
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY John 14:1-6 2 Peter 3:10-13
Luke 23:39-43 Matthew 6:19-21 71
CHRONICLE 12:AND THEY NOW HAVE A PLACE
MARCH 28
A PHYSICAL HEAVEN NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, help me look forward, beyond what I can see in front of me, to what You are bringing. Help me perceive that You are the Resurrection and the Life, and to live my life with the knowledge of what is to come. May I not be lost in the momentary afflictions of today, but to believe and know Your grace is just around the corner. Help me live with true conviction, pursuing righteousness, and living a holy life that honors You who restores all. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture 2 Peter 3:10-13
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Isaiah 25:6-9 2 Timothy 4:16-18
Colossians 3:1-7 Revelation 5:9-13 73
CHRONICLE 12:AND THEY NOW HAVE A PLACE
APRIL 4
CURSE UNDONE NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Lord, with great anticipation I look forward to the time when we will finally see what we were originally created for. I hunger for the day when the curse will be removed and I can dwell with You exactly like I was created. Please forgive my forgetfulness of that homecoming; and thank You for getting everything ready.
S T O R Y
cripture Revelation 22:3-7
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
FOR FURTHER STUDY Revelation 21:1-5 Philippians 3:20-21
Revelation 21:6-8 1 Peter 1:1-4 75
CHRONICLE 12:AND THEY NOW HAVE A PLACE
APRIL 14
LOOK WHAT GOD JUST DID! NOTES
DAILY FOCUS Father, Your Word has given us the greatest story ever told—of Your greatness and love for us. Help me to play the part You have invited me to play in Your story. I know your Son is coming back soon, but until that day comes help me trust You each day. Remind me every day of Your faithfulness so I can live my life on mission, extending the call to “come” to all those who are thirsty for You. Amen.
S T O R Y
cripture Revelation 22:17
heology
What does this reveal about God in His story?
ur Part
What does this reveal about humankind in the story?
epentance
What needs to change in you as a result?
our Move
What specifically are you going to do about this?
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