Hello Eastern Star Church Family and Friends! Another year has come where we take some time to hear from God. Annually, we use the Lent Season to spend 40 days fasting and praying for God to reveal Himself to us and be transformed. As a Christian, our goal is to become more like Christ in our actions and attitudes. We want to give glory to God and draw unbelievers to Him. This dedicated period of time allows us to do this in an intentional way. This year, not only will we fast corporately, but we will also journey through a time of devotion called the Fast to Freedom. This devotional time is intended to help you gain new strength for the year ahead, beginning the year in tune to God’s voice. I hope that it will challenge you to examine how effectively you are using your time, talent, and treasure for His kingdom. It is my hope that each day will provide you with insightful reflections and challenges. I am excited about how God will speak to you during this time. Do not miss this opportunity to grow in your faith. Grace and Peace.
Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. Senior Pastor Eastern Star Church The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. - Numbers 6:25-26 KJV
INTRODUCTION Fasting is one of several spiritual disciplines used to help believers develop in their relationship with Christ. Fasting means to go without food or any favorite luxury for a set time for the purpose of drawing closer to Christ. The fast at Eastern Star Church will follow these guidelines:
FAST TYPE From Ash Wednesday, February 10 – Palm Sunday, March 20, we will follow a modified Daniel Fast. We will primarily only eat fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains. We will only drink water and 100% juices. We will refrain from eating meats, dairy, and sweets. One day during every week, select a day when you will do a complete fast only drinking liquids such as water and 100% fruit juices. Alternative: For those who cannot fast because of medical reasons, consider fasting certain types of food (sweets, soft drinks, etc.) or leisure activities such as your favorite TV program and/or social media (i.e. Twitter, Facebook, Instagram). *If you have any health conditions, please seek advice from your physician before beginning any corporate food fast at Eastern Star Church.
FAST PURPOSE The purpose of fasting is not to lose weight or get healthy although these are some benefits. The main purpose of fasting is to grow closer to Christ by taking away something in your routine that will trigger you to lean on Christ. While Jesus was fasting 40 days in the wilderness, he stated “It is written: “Man does not live by bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.”(Matthew 4:4) Often times, we can lose sight of this truth in our daily lives, so fasting helps us to remember this perspective. This year, we have decided to develop a devotional to help everyone be intentional about focusing on the Word of God during the fast. As we are focusing on Freedom this year as a church, we understand that many of us are bound in the usage of our time, talent and treasure. As a result, this devotional will focus on those areas of our lives. Each day, seek God for freedom concerning the things that are keeping you from experiencing God’s best in these areas. This is going to require every member to be in tune with how God wants them to come alongside what He is doing through Eastern Star Church for the lost in this community. This devotional will help every member reflect on the resources God has given them and how He wants them to use those resources to build His kingdom. Each devotional will provide a Scripture from the New International Version (NIV), a Devotional Remark, Further Reflections, and space for you to write your thoughts. Although the fast lasts 40 days (February 10-March 20), this devotional will allow you to focus for 47 days ending on Easter Sunday (February 10-March 27).
During the Fast, we will provide the following to help you remain engaged in the experience: 1. A morning prayer call at 6:30 a.m. on Ash Wednesday (Wednesday, February 10). Dial into the number below and we will pray together. Dial-In Phone Number: 712-775-7031 Access Code: 363-540 2. Every Monday, check out our website to hear a weekly reflection from Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr. 3. An opportunity to share your reflections from the devotionals or your experience during the fast with your church family on our Facebook page using the hashtags #ESCFreedom and #FreeIndeed or email us at freedom@easternstarchurch.org.
FASTING CONCLUSION On Easter Sunday (March 27), we will celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ by wearing a Freedom T-shirt. Shirts will be available for purchase; more information to come.
FEBRUARY 10
(Ash Wednesday)
There is a Prayer Call today at 6:30 a.m. To participate dial Phone Number: 712-775-7031 Access Code: 363-540
I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.� - Luke 5:32 Today is recognized as Ash Wednesday in the Christian community. On this day, believers all over the world take time to acknowledge their sinfulness by putting burned ashes on their foreheads in the shape of the cross. It is a time to reflect and repent (change your mind) of those sins. As the scripture above states, Jesus came to save those who recognized their sinfulness, therefore, acknowledging their need for salvation through Jesus Christ. The reality is we do not have to be afraid of acknowledging that we sin. God wants us to acknowledge them and confess them to Him for forgiveness (Psalm 51, 1 John 1:9). Sin separates us from a relationship with God but praise God that He loved us enough to send His Son to die for our sins and restore our relationship with Him.
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FURTHER REFLECTION We want to be perfect, but God wants us to recognize our sinfulness so that we can receive His forgiveness. Living for Christ, we can often times forget the sins that we commit daily that offend Him. Take some time to reflect on how you miss the mark daily. Be specific. Once you have completed this list, repent of those things and thank God for his forgiveness.
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FEBRUARY 11 Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, left the Jordan and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness, where for forty days he was tempted by the devil. He ate nothing during those days, and at the end of them he was hungry. - Luke 4:1-2
Ash Wednesday (yesterday) marks the beginning of the Lent season. Lent is traditionally recognized as a 40 day fast where believers abstain from certain foods or other luxuries to commemorate the 40 days and nights that Christ fasted before his earthly ministry. At Eastern Star Church, we participate in a modified Daniel Fast during this season. The guidelines for the Daniel fast are taken from Daniel 1:8-16, where Daniel and his friends only ate vegetables and drank water while training to serve in King Nebuchadnezzar’s service.
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FURTHER REFLECTION Read more about Jesus’ fast and temptation in Luke 4:1-13. Jesus was tempted in every way, but without sin. We are tempted to sin in a variety of different areas, sex outside of marriage, gossip, overeating, laziness, etc. Everybody is tempted in different ways. Reflect on the areas in your life where you are tempted. List them below. Pray for God to give you strength not to give in to those temptations.
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FEBRUARY 12 ‘Why have we fasted,’ they say, ‘and you have not seen it? Why have we humbled ourselves, and you have not noticed?’ “Yet on the day of your fasting, you do as you please and exploit all your workers. Your fasting ends in quarreling and strife, and in striking each other with wicked fists. You cannot fast as you do today and expect your voice to be heard on high. - Isaiah 58:3-4 As we begin this fasting season, it will be easy to focus on the physical aspects of abstaining from food or whatever luxury you are choosing to remove from your daily routine. We will want to spend time with our friends talking about how difficult it is not to eat this or that or try to discover what recipes you can make to fill fuller each meal. It is important to understand that God is not looking at what foods you are choosing to eat, but He is looking at your character. As the passage states, God will not recognize our actions in fasting, if our behavior has not changed. The people of Israel thought they would see God moving in their lives simply because they fasted, but God helps them to reflect on their behavior. “You cannot fast as you are doing today and expect your voice to be heard.” He wants our attitudes and actions to reflect our time spent with Him.
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FURTHER REFLECTION In Isaiah 58, God lists various ways the children of Israel could demonstrate time spent with Him during their fast. (Read Isaiah 58:6-9) List several ways that you can demonstrate your time with Christ in your actions. For example, while you are fasting from food, you could commit to also stopping behaviors that are disrespectful to others such as interrupting others when they are talking or complaining about your job to others.
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FEBRUARY 13 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. - Matthew 6:16-18
Fasting, although done as a church, is a private experience. It can be easy to get caught up in the need to be seen so others can perceive you as “SPIRITUAL” and, therefore, noble or honorable. There is some value in allowing others to know that you are fasting to help them grow or even to expose them to this practice. Yet, we have to check our motives to ensure that we are not sharing this experience with others for the wrong reason. Commit to not sharing your experience with others unless it is necessary or beneficial for the person receiving the information.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION We are fasting for the purpose of drawing closer to Christ. Instead of sharing with others that you are fasting, find a way to share Christ with those in your family, on your job, or any place where you have influence. Knowing Jesus Christ will do more good than knowing that you are fasting.
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FEBRUARY 14 There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace. - Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 If we’re honest we think managing our time means cramming more into the day; acting as if we have 27 hours instead of 24. The reality is we cannot do everything and we have to be thoughtful about the activities that we put on our calendars. The scripture says “there is a time for everything and a SEASON for every activity under the heavens.” Is it possible that your schedule is unmanageable or overwhelming because you are allotting time for people and activities whose season has passed? Is God allowing you to experience conflict on your job and in your relationships because He wants you to move out of one season and enter into another?
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Take a step back and ask yourself, 1) What is the purpose of my life? 2) What things am I doing to help fulfill this purpose? 3) What can I eliminate to help fulfill this purpose? Share this information with one Christian person you trust and ask for their feedback.
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FEBRUARY 15 Now listen, you who say, “Today or tomorrow we will go to this or that city, spend a year there, carry on business and make money. Why, you do not even know what will happen tomorrow. What is your life? You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. Instead, you ought to say, “If it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” - James 4:13-15
When we look at our busy schedules or lack thereof, one would think that we have control over our time. As the scripture reminds us, God is in control of our time. 2 Peter 3: 8 states, “But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day.” Time is subject to God, and He uses it to accomplish HIS purposes.
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FURTHER REFLECTION It is a good thing that God controls time. If we had control of time, the world would be messed up. We are not able to see the bigger picture because we do not know ALL things. God knows ALL things, therefore, He can orchestrate time to accomplish greater purposes. Take some time to just thank God for being the ultimate manager of time.
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FEBRUARY 16 “Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.” - Matthew 19:4-6
Marriages today are under siege. Divorce, confusion about roles, financial pressures, and a host of other problems contribute to its breakdown. Marriages within the Christian community are supposed to be physical examples of Christ and His relationship with us, His Church. It is a witness to the unbeliever about the great love that Christ has for us. Sadly, we are missing this opportunity to be a witness to others. Because of the power that marriage has to bring unbelievers to Christ, we need to spend more time investing in the health of our marriages.
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FURTHER REFLECTION Spend some time in prayer about marriages. For those who are married, ask God to reveal to you ways that you can better prioritize your marriage. For those who are single, pray for the marriages of your family and friends. The institution of marriage provides an awesome opportunity to be a witness to others about Christ. Let’s take it seriously.
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FEBRUARY 17 Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are sons born in one’s youth. Blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them. They will not be put to shame when they contend with their enemies in gate. - Psalm 127:3-5 The Bible teaches us that the institution of family is of divine origin and purpose. The family is the most important building block of human society, and as such, it should be nurtured and protected. Parents have the primary responsibility for directing their children in a way they should go. The scripture states that children are like arrows in the hands of a warrior. We have to seriously take the opportunity to shape the minds of our children. We cannot allow the views of the world expressed through television programs, music, unbelieving friends, and family to have more influence over our children than our views. We have to be intentional about spending time with our children, helping to develop their beliefs and behaviors.
FURTHER REFLECTION Do one of the following activities with your children or children that you have the opportunity to influence: Practice “roundabout” conversation. While you’re waiting in traffic, working a puzzle, or eating a meal ask, “What’d you think about...?” questions. Then just listen, really listen. Hold a “Family Checkup” once a week. Share ideas, assign tasks, make plans, coordinate calendars, and listen to complaints. These debriefing sessions build loyalty. Spend time today praying for children and all of those who have the opportunity to influence them (parents, teachers, family members, coaches, etc.).
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FEBRUARY 18 Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own. - 1 Corinthians 6:19 We’re stressed. We’re exhausted. Work takes its toll on our physical and mental health. Family responsibilities weigh us down. Many of us have so many responsibilities in life that we forget to take care of ourselves and to treat our bodies like the wonderful temples that they are. In this passage, the author, Paul, is encouraging the Corinthian church not to indulge in sexual immorality because their bodies are temples, where the Holy Spirit dwells. In the same way, because our bodies are temples, we need to take care of them by giving them the proper rest.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Commit to giving your body the proper rest it needs today or tomorrow. It is believed that we should get about 8 hours of sleep per night. Turn the TV off. Get off the phone with your friend. Do whatever you have to do to give your body some rest. We only get one body. Take care of it.
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FEBRUARY 19 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God’s rest also rests from his own work, just as God did from his. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will fall by following their example of disobedience. - Hebrews 4:9-11 The Sabbath was made to rest. We often do not take advantage of this commandment, but God has commanded it for a reason. Every one of our bodies needs to rest, but we want to fill our schedules up with activities. To experience the kind of rest we should experience, we are going to have to learn how to say “No” when we need to. When we take on too many things, we don’t leave any space for ourselves. We don’t have any time to fulfill our life purpose. We don’t leave room to grow, to breathe and simply…to be. If you don’t do it, someone else will manage your schedule.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Choose two things you are going to say YES to…just for you: a massage, a long walk, read your favorite book, etc. Do it! Then choose TWO things you are going to say “No” such as spending too much time on social media, playing video games, or accepting social invitations that don’t align with your values.
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FEBRUARY 20 And we, who with unveiled faces all reflect the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his likeness with every-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is Spirit. - 2 Corinthians 3:18 The Christian’s desire is to become more and more like Christ. That means we need to set aside not only time for prayer and Bible study, but also time for self-reflection. It can be a three-step process: think about the day, work, and life - in that order. What went right, what went wrong, and what could be improved? It helps us learn from our mistakes. If we don’t reflect on our mistakes, we are doomed to repeat them. Self-reflection can help identify great ideas. What your quiet reflection time reveals might be something that can be shared with others, e.g. simple tips, resources etc. Reflecting on things you did right allows you to celebrate little successes and not focus so much on failures. Often we are caught up in the troubles or busyness of our daily lives. A mistake or a high-pressure project or something like that can seem like it means all the world. It can overwhelm us sometimes. But if we take a minute to step back, and reflect on these problems, and how in the grand scheme of things they don’t mean all that much, it can calm us down and lower our stress levels. We gain perspective, and that’s a good thing!
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FURTHER REFLECTION Set aside time every day or, at least, weekly to unplug from everybody and everything and just THINK.
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FEBRUARY 21 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. He chose to give us birth through the word of truth that we might be a kind of first fruits of all her created. - James 1:17-18 God is the giver of all good gifts. There was nothing that we did or accomplished that enabled us to receive the gifts and talents that we have. The greatest gift He has given us is salvation, as the scripture says “giving us birth through the word of truth.” God has chosen us to be representatives for Him on this earth; we did not choose Him. We couldn’t choose Him because of our sinfulness, but God loves us enough to touch our hearts and draw us to Him (John 6:44).
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FURTHER REFLECTION Reflect on the fact that God chose you to be a part of His family. He did not choose us because of anything we have done. We are a part of His family simply because of His grace. Read Ephesians 2:8-9. Thank God for choosing you!
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FEBRUARY 22 We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. If your gift is prophesying, then prophesy in accordance with your faith. - Romans 12:6
Salvation in Jesus opens us up to receive the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit moves on the inside of us and brings with Him different spiritual gifts. We do not deserve these gifts, but Paul, in his letter to the Romans, says that we receive it “according to the GRACE given to each of us.� By grace, every believer has the opportunity to participate in what God is doing on this earth. We do this by properly using the spiritual gift(s) He has given us. It is important that we take the time to discover and cultivate our gift and use it to make disciples. (Matthew 28:19-20)
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION If you do not know your spiritual gift, visit www.churchgrowth.org and complete the free Spiritual Gifts Analysis. Completing this assessment can help you discover the unique way God has created you to join Him in what He is doing in this world. It only takes about 20 minutes. List your spiritual gift(s) below. If you already know your spiritual gift(s), examine how you are currently using your gift(s). Are you using it in the correct way in this season of your life? Is God calling you to do more?
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FEBRUARY 23 Now about the gifts of the Spirit, brothers and sisters, I do not want you to be uninformed . . . There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. - 1 Corinthians 12:1, 4-6 In this passage, Paul reminds the Corinthian church that although there is a variety of different gifts and a variety of different ways for using those gifts. All gifts and their uses come from one source, God. As we think about the various ministries within our church, it is important to understand that every ministry has value, even if we are not participating in it. God is at work in every one of those ministries and is using them for His purposes. God is also at work in ministries outside of the walls of the church and in every act performed by believers all over the world who listen to His voice and respond to His call to action.
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FURTHER REFLECTION Think of a believer who is serving in an area of ministry that is outside of your spiritual gifts/interests. Thank God for that believer and his/her obedience to His call. They are meeting a need that may not otherwise be filled. Think of your spiritual gifts. What are some of the different ways you can get involved and meet the needs of others?
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FEBRUARY 24 Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. - 1 Peter 4:10
Peter informs us here that the gifts that we have received from God should not be used for our own gain, but utilized to serve others. Jesus was a great example of serving others. In fact, Jesus stated that He did not come to be served, but to serve (Matthew 20:28). We should follow His example by looking for ways that we can use our resources, skills, and passions to help others. Just like Christ, we should be willing to be sacrificial in our serving. Meeting the needs of others is not always convenient or comfortable, but when we respond to God’s call to serve, we will make a great impact in expanding God’s influence in the world.
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FURTHER REFLECTION Be a blessing in somebody else’s life. Help a family member or friend, volunteer your time, or give to the less fortunate. Utilize your gifts to serve someone else today.
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FEBRUARY 25 Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. - Colossians 3:23-24 Whatever we do in this world, we should do it with excellence. The scripture states that we should do it “with all of our hearts.� This can be difficult at times because we may feel that we have not received the recognition or the monetary compensation we are owed. Yet, this passage reminds us that we are always working for the Lord in whatever we do. We are always on display in this world as His representatives, and we must work diligently to represent Him well. Many people will judge whether or not they would want to be in relationship with God by watching His people. We must work for the reward God will give us, not man.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Examine the amount of effort you give to the various activities you are involved in (work, ministry, parenting, etc.). Are you working with all of your heart? If not, why not? Ask for forgiveness and commit to working with excellence to please God.
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FEBRUARY 26 We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised. - Hebrews 6:12
The writer of Hebrews is letting his audience know that laziness could cause them to miss the promises God wanted to fulfill through them. In the same way, we can miss out on the fulfilled promises of God in our lives if we choose not to persevere in the faith. Living according to God’s ways can be tiresome, especially when we do not see the positive results of our obedience immediately.. Yet, it is important “to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” Remembering the lives of those who have gone before us and lived by faith can be the motivation that we need to continue to persevere in faith even when we are tired.
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FURTHER REFLECTION List people in your life that are living a Christian life that you admire. Take some time to ask them how they remain faithful to Christ and His ways even when they get tired. Thank God for their influence and wisdom in your life.
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FEBRUARY 27 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. - Galatians 5:22-23 When we accepted Jesus Christ in our lives, we received the Holy Spirit. The Spirit’s presence in our lives is evidenced by our behavior. Christians, therefore, should display the fruit of the Spirit – the evidence of the Spirit living in us, in love, joy, peace, forbearance (patience), kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. If we yield to the Spirit’s direction in our lives, we can have peace when chaos is around us, love in a world full of hate, and display kindness to those who may not show kindness to us. It is only because of the Holy Spirit that we have what it takes to respond and relate in a way where God can get the glory in every situation we face.
FURTHER REFLECTION Reflect on an opportunity where you could have shown the fruit of the Spirit, but chose not to show it. For example, you could have given a gentle answer in response to your spouse’s question, but you chose to be harsh and cold because you were tired and irritated. Ask God for forgiveness for your actions and if necessary, ask for forgiveness from the person you may have offended.
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FEBRUARY 28 For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession. - Deuteronomy 7:6 In this passage, Moses is speaking to the people of Israel and reminding them that when they enter into the Promised Land, they are not to intermingle with the peoples of that land, i.e. Hittites, Girgashites, Amorites, and many other “ites.” He reminds them that they are a “holy” people, people set apart for His purposes. They are His treasured possession. As believers, we are viewed by God just like the people of Israel in this passage. He calls us “holy” because we are set apart for His purposes. We are His treasured possession. Employers, family, and so-called friends can try to make us feel different about ourselves with the harsh way they treat us. Yet, we must remember and internalize the value that God places on our lives.
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FURTHER REFLECTION Take at least 10 minutes and focus on how valuable you are to God. Think about how God saved you, delivered you, blessed you, and how in the midst of tough times and challenges has kept you. Think back and truly treasure your relationship with God in Christ Jesus. He’s our Lord, Savior, Healer, Deliverer, Peace-giver, and Mighty Counselor. Think about these things and treasure God today.
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FEBRUARY 29 I have not departed from the commands of his lips; I have treasured the words of his mouth more than my daily bread. - Job 23:12
Living in obedience to God’s commands should be more important to us than meeting our physical needs. Jesus, while fasting in the wilderness, responds to Satan, while being tempted to make bread out of stones, “Man does not live by bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4) We should value the Word of God. When we hide God’s Word in our hearts, we will not sin against Him. (Psalm 119:11) God’s Word gives us direction for everyday living. (Psalm 119:105)
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FURTHER REFLECTION Read Psalm 119 and take note of how the people of Israel treasured the Word of God. Pray for God to increase your love for His Word.
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MARCH 1 Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. - Matthew 6:19-20 When we think about the things that we value most, many of them are temporary. Many of our paychecks are spent on cars we can’t afford, homes that we are too busy to live in, and electronics that we do not know how to use. Every one of these items can be stolen, outdated, and destroyed. Jesus wants us to value those things in life that cannot be stolen, outdated, and destroyed. Only what we do for Christ will last. Christ wants us to be His hands and feet in the world doing what He would have done if He were on this earth. When we meet the needs of His people, we are serving Him. (Matthew 25:31-46)
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FURTHER REFLECTION Make a list of the things you did not realize you were treasuring, but are temporary. What do you feel God is leading you to do about it? For example, maybe you have a closet full of clothes, and you feel led to donate some of them to an emergency shelter for families. Or in the future instead of shopping (as often), you will take that treasure and give a donation to help the poor.
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MARCH 2 “Will a man rob God? Yet you rob me. “But you ask, ‘How do we rob you?’ In tithes and offering. You are under a curse-the whole nation of you-because you are robbing me. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it.” - Malachi 3:8-10
The prophet Malachi was prophesying to the people of Israel letting them know that God was angry with them because they had turned away from His commands. One area they had neglected was paying tithes and offering. God defines not paying tithes and offering as robbing Him. This description makes sense because all that we have belongs to Him. He only requires that we return 10% to him.
FURTHER REFLECTION If I currently tithe (give the Lord 10% of my income) during the fast, I will give an offering over and above my tithe. If I currently give a portion of my income, but not the full tithe, during the fast I will step out on faith and give my full tithe. If I don’t give at all, I will begin to give something to God in the offering beginning this week.
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MARCH 3 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. - Matthew 6:21
If I want to find where my heart is, Jesus said all I have to do is to follow a “treasure” map. Everyone has a treasure map. Where you put your time, talent, and treasure shows where your heart is located. Where is your heart?
FURTHER REFLECTION On sticky notes or small sheets of paper, write down the things you treasure or value. Put them in order
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of priority. Be completely honest with yourself as you write down what you treasure. What do you think you place first, second, third, etc. in your life? • What does this “map” show you about where your heart is? • Write down 2-3 changes you want to begin making today to your “treasure map” that will help you grow spiritually and in your relationship with God. • Begin taking small steps today on your renewed spiritual journey!
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MARCH 4 No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. - Matthew 6:24
You cannot serve both God and money. Life will make you choose one or the other. There will be times when choosing God’s standards and principles will affect our finances. For example, God may be calling you to take a job that does not pay as much so that you can be used to draw people closer to Christ. It is at these times when we will discover who we have decided to serve, God or money.
FURTHER REFLECTION Do a quick self-check today. Is your mind on your money and your money on your mind, all the time? Or is God your one treasure? Is it reflected in how you handle your money? (e.g. giving tithes and offering consistently and handling your finances in a way that pleases God and blesses you, your family, your community, and the world.).
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MY THOUGHTS
MARCH 5 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. - 1 Timothy 6:18-19 In this passage, Paul is talking to Timothy, his son in the ministry. He is encouraging him to speak to the rich people under his leadership. Paul wants Timothy to help them to understand that just because they are wealthy does not mean they are living the TRUE LIFE. True living is characterized by being generous and willing to share, but the world would have us to believe otherwise. The world through television, music, etc. would have us value and pursue the lifestyle of the rich and famous. The reality is, living in wealth is of no value if we are stingy.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION As a family or group of friends, choose an organization/family/ person that you want to be generous to in order to show them that you treasure them. Decide how you can serve that organization, family or person, and then do it. For example, make cookies and drop them off, rake an elderly neighbor’s leaves and bag them up, serve food together at a homeless shelter, etc. Treasure others.
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MARCH 6 Sow for yourselves righteousness, reap the fruit of unfailing love, and break up your unplowed ground for it is time to seek the Lord until he comes and showers righteousness on you. - Hosea 10:12 Using a farming example, the prophet Hosea is encouraging the people of Israel to repent, change their mind about their sinful behavior, and begin to seek the Lord and His ways. In the same way, we should set aside time to seek the Lord daily. In this quiet time, God will speak to us and show us where we are falling short. Although painful, taking heed of God’s insight will result in showers of righteousness (alignment with God’s standards) and blessing.
FURTHER REFLECTION
Spending quiet time with God can be uncomfortable if you have never done it before. It can also become very routine for those who are used to it. This week, challenge yourself to begin having quiet time or change up the routine of your quiet time experience. Consider getting to a quiet place and praying out loud to God. Select a scripture you want to commit to memory and write it on a sheet of paper several times. Sit in silence for several minutes and allow God to direct you. See if you will hear from God in a new way. “Quiet time is giving God your undivided attention for a predetermined amount of time for the purpose of talking and hearing from Him.” Charles Stanley.
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MY THOUGHTS
MARCH 7 This is the day the LORD has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it. - Psalm 118:24
The psalmist writes that we ought to rejoice in each day simply because God made the day. Yet, challenges and difficulties can cause us to complain about and even dread the day. It takes a lot of faith to rejoice and be glad in a day that holds so much difficulty. It is important to understand that if the Lord made the day, He then has control of the day and we can trust that He has our best interests at heart. When we adopt the perspective of rejoicing in each day, it will change our outlook on our problems.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Today and every day is a gift from God, and He wants us to rejoice in this gift. As Christians, we should start each day with a spirit of thanksgiving. Begin to just thank God for allowing you to see another day.
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MARCH 8 Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
We are always searching for the will of God for our lives. We spend a lot of time trying to discover which ministry He wants us to join, which job He wants us to have, and which mate He wants us to marry. It is important to seek God’s direction in these areas of life, but in seeking these things, we can lose sight of the very basic will of God. In 1 Thessalonians, Paul lists the general will of God very plainly, “Be joyful always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances.” Whatever our circumstances may be, God’s will is that we do these three things.
FURTHER REFLECTION Examine yourself in the areas of being joyful always, praying continually, and giving thanks in all circumstances. Do you make prayer an integral part of your daily life or is it hit or miss? Are you joyful only when things are good or do you find ways to be joyful even when things are not favorable? Can you find something to be thankful for even when life is difficult?
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MY THOUGHTS
MARCH 9 Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. Psalm 46:10but sinners to repentance.” - Luke 5:32
We live in a world full of death, disappointment, wars, persecutions, racism, sexism, terrorism, and other social ills. These circumstances can cause us to spend time in fear, confusion, and dismay. This scripture encourages us not to fear but trust in God, our refuge and strength. He tells us to, “be still and know that I am God.” Knowing God and His power will give us the strength to face each day. Knowing God and His willingness to provide all our needs will keep us from trying to figure out solutions on our own, but will cause us to be still and trust His direction.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Take time today to just thank God for who He is despite what your circumstances are. In His time, according to His purposes, God will intervene in your situation. He is a Jehovah Jireh, the Lord who provides; Jehovah Rapha, the Lord that Heals. Research the names of God and write them on a sheet of paper.
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MARCH 10 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. - Matthew 6:33-34
This passage reminds us that when we have our priorities right, we do not have to worry about anything. If our focus is on seeking His kingdom and His righteousness, we can be sure that our needs will be met. The scripture says that God feeds the birds and clothes the lilies of the field and we have more value than them. (Matthew 6:25-32) Worrying is a waste of time when we are living out God’s plan for our lives. All we need to do is look for how He will show up to meet our needs.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Identify areas in your life where you feel worried. Examine whether you are in the will of God in that area of your life. If not, realign yourself with His will. If you are in the will of God, ask God to give you peace as you surrender these concerns to Him.
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MARCH 11 Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom. - Psalm 90:12
Life is a glorious gift from God. Our days are filled with responsibilities, opportunities, challenges, and choices. Life is so brief;, we need to seek God’s wisdom in all of our choices so that we do not lose time making unnecessary mistakes. When we trust in the Lord with all our hearts, lean not on our own understanding, and acknowledge Him in all our ways, He has promised that He will make our paths straight. (Proverbs 3:5-6). It does not make sense to waste the brief life we do have with unnecessary mistakes when we have free access to God’s wisdom.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Evaluate the choices you make. Ask yourself whether you prayed to God for wisdom before you made the choice or whether you made it out of your own understanding? Develop a habit of not making quick decisions, but taking the time to pray about everything no matter how big or small the issue may be. See what a difference it will make in your life.
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MARCH 12 I will extol the Lord at all times, His praise will always be on my lips. - Psalm 34:1
King David commanded himself to praise the Lord at all times. Not only did David praise the Lord, but he also encouraged all the people to thank God for what He was doing in their lives. He led by example by praising the Lord with his lips. Meaning his praise could be heard. Hebrews 13:15 states, “Let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise – the fruit of lips that confess his name.” It is important to praise God out loud. Psalm 150 lets us know that God loves to hear sounds when we are worshipping Him. We are not ashamed to shout at a sports game or graduation; we should not be ashamed to make a joyful noise to God in a group or by ourselves.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Take some time today to sing songs to the Lord and worship Him out loud. For some people, this may feel uncomfortable, but do it anyway out of obedience to God.
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MARCH 13 “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; he who seeks finds; and to him who knocks, the door will be opened. Which of you, if his son asks for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake? If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your father in Heaven give good gifts to those that ask of Him!� - Matthew 7:7-11
Some Christians do not believe they can ask God for what they want. They believe asking for themselves is selfish, and therefore, dishonorable before God. This scripture dispels this myth. Jesus tells us to ask. We do not have to bargain with Him. Be direct and just ask for what you need.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Prayer is the appointed means for obtaining what we need. Pray often, make it your business to pray. Be serious and earnest in it. Identify one or two things that you are reluctant to ask God for and share it with Him. Have faith!
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MARCH 14 “For as high as the heavens are above the earth so great is His love for those who fear him.” - Psalm 103:11
God’s love for us is great. We will never experience the depth of love that we have with God with anyone else. God knows everything about us and still chooses to be in relationship with us. We do not have to be afraid when we are with God. Perfect love casts out fear. (1 John 4:18). He wanted a relationship with us while we were sinners, (Romans 5:8) so it is no surprise to Him that we are not perfect. Accept God’s love for you and receive the freedom of being authentically you in His presence.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Rejoice in knowing you can be your true self with God without Him looking down on you for your sinful behaviors. Receive His acceptance and correction. Know that He has great love for you. Commit to loving others in the same way.
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MARCH 15 “Get wisdom, get understanding do not forget my words or swerve from them.” - Proverbs 4:5
God will lead us in the right paths; in paths of righteousness, holiness, and truth. James 1:5 states, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” Our desire should be to get direction from God and make it a habit of being obedient to Him. Sustained obedience over time produces wisdom. Wisdom is developed through corrected mistakes and making right choices.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Pray for God to give you the patience to make the right choices consistently so that you can be wise. Thank God for those in your life who have shared their wisdom with you so that you could make better decisions.
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MARCH 16 So if you obey the commands I am giving you today-to love the Lord your God and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul – then I will send rain on your land in its season, both autumn and spring rains, so that you gather in your grain, new wine and oil. - Deuteronomy 11:13-14 God has promised that we will prosper if we are obedient. We will be blessed with plenty of all good things. He will not leave us without reward for our faithful devotion to Him.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Trust God. Practice obedience in all areas of your life. Sometimes you may get a little dismayed but stay on course. Write down the areas of obedience in your life that you need to work on.
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MARCH 17 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: “It is more blessed to give than receive.” - Acts 20:35 While Paul visited with the Ephesian elders, giving his goodbyes, he reminded them of how hard he had worked among them to provide for himself and those who were with him. He asked for nothing while he was doing ministry among them. He encouraged them to follow his example and help others the way he has helped them.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Find ways to give to others. When you are out dining, shopping, etc. pay for someone else’s purchase. For example, while in line at the store behind someone, when the cashier rings up the purchase step up and pay it for that person. The feeling you will feel from that gesture will be amazing all by just “paying it forward.” Watch the reaction from that person and the cashier…priceless!
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MARCH 18 But solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained themselves to distinguish good from evil. - Hebrew 5:14
The writer of Hebrews is frustrated with certain Christians because although they have been walking with Christ for a while they have not grown in their faith. Instead of being knowledgeable enough to teach, they still need to be taught the basics principles of Christianity. We grow in our faith by constantly practicing Christ like principles daily. If we are designating our growth to Sunday morning worship time only, we will not become mature in the faith. We have to be intentional about learning and applying God’s principles in our lives daily and overtime we will be qualified to lead others.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Identify a daily devotional that you can use every day after this fasting devotional. Participating in a group with others while you are studying can help too.
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MARCH 19 For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you and asking God to fill you with knowledge of his will through all spiritual wisdom and understanding. - Colossians 1:9
Paul understood the importance of praying for others constantly. In this passage, he is letting the Colossian church know that he is praying for their spiritual growth. We often miss the blessing in praying for others because we are so consumed with our needs. James 5:16 instructs us to pray for one another. There is so much power in prayer. We may not always know how to pray for others, but when we pray for them, God knows exactly what they need.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Instead of praying about our needs, thank God for what you have. Select someone you know who is going through something during this fasting period, a family member, friend, or neighbor and start praying for them. It can be so rewarding praying for another, especially when you see God answer your prayers. This is called “intercessory prayer� and it works.
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MARCH 20 (PALM SUNDAY) This is the last official day of the Corporate Fast.
The next day the great crowd that had come for the festival heard that Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem. They took palm branches and went out to meet him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the king of Israel!” Jesus found a young donkey and sat on it, as it is written: “Do not be afraid, Daughter Zion; see, your king is coming, seated on a donkey’s colt.” At first his disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about him and that these things had been done to him. Now the crowd that was with him when he called Lazarus from the tomb and raised him from the dead continued to spread the word. Many people, because they had heard that he had performed this sign, went out to meet him. So the Pharisees said to one another, “See, this is getting us nowhere. Look how the whole world has gone after him!” - John 12:12-19 Palm Sunday is a Christian holiday commemorating the triumphal entry of Jesus Christ into Jerusalem before the Passover feast. This celebration falls on the Sunday before Easter every year. God came to the earth, in the person of Jesus Christ, to die for the sin of man. Yet, knowing He had to die, He did not allow himself to be glorified in this life because He knew the fickle nature of man. He will praise you one minute and oppose you the next. On Palm Sunday, people praised Jesus hailing him as king of Israel, waving palm branches. In the next moment, they wanted to nail him to a cross. Let us seek to win the praise of God above the approval of man, fulfilling God’s purpose in the earth.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Do you struggle seeking the approval of others more than the approval of God? Pray for God to help you get the proper perspective.
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MARCH 21 “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it. - Matthew 13:44-46 Jesus likens the kingdom of heaven to that which is most valuable and precious. In both parables, each character is willing to give up their treasure (life investment) to obtain that which is most valuable. Paul, in Philippians 3:8-9, states that whatever was considered a profit to him before knowing Christ, he now considers loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing Christ Jesus. Knowing Christ and being a part of His Kingdom on earth and in heaven should hold great value in our lives.
FURTHER REFLECTION MY THOUGHTS
God desires for us to give up our treasure (life investment) for that which is priceless, the kingdom of heaven. Reflect on the things that are most valuable in regards to your material possessions. Determine the cost of that item compared to the amount of your treasure that you give to the kingdom of heaven. Do they compare? If what you possess is a greater amount than your sacrifices to the kingdom of heaven, make a vow to yourself and God to increase the level of your giving.
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MARCH 22 Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. - 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 Throughout the New Testament, the apostle Paul encouraged the churches to collect an offering to give to other churches that were struggling. In this passage, the Corinthian church was collecting money for the church in Macedonia. He reminds them that they should give what they have decided in their hearts to give so they can be cheerful in their giving. God loves a cheerful giver. He does not want us to give because someone forced us into dropping something in the offering basket. God wants us to be prayerful about our gift and then be excited about giving it for the advancement of the kingdom.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Take a moment to reflect on your involvement in giving. What is your attitude about giving to ministry? Determine what ministry (or ministries) in which to invest your resources to further the mission and goals of that ministry.
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MARCH 23 “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven. Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” - Luke 6:37-38 This passage is often used when talking about tithes and offerings. However, in the context of this scripture, Jesus also speaks of judgment and condemnation. The principle shared in this passage is that what you do or don’t do, will return to you. The courtesies you provide others will be paid back to you. In other words, what we give to others is what we can expect to receive back from others. If we give love, we can expect love back in great measure. If we give anger, we can expect anger and bitterness to come back in great measure. It was once said, God only gives to those who give.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Intentionally provide a gift to someone today just to show your appreciation for the blessings of God in your life. As a result, expect to see God bless you with more as a result of you giving something valuable to someone else to encourage them.
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MARCH 24 If anyone forces you to go one mile, go with them two miles. Give to the one who asks you, and do not turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you. - Matthew 5:41-42 In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus encourages us to go above and beyond what is expected to do that which is best. Jesus shows that through the law we come to understand what is right, but our righteousness should exceed the law. Giving is right based on moral code, but we should be willing to give more because our righteousness exceeds moral codes. When others ask for us to give we should not only be willing to give, but to give more than what is being asked. What could we give in light of all that God has given to us?
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Make a commitment to give above and beyond your regular tithes and offerings to help the ministry of the church with those who are less fortunate. If you aren’t able to give more , give something of value that can be used by the outreach ministry, food pantry, or other ministry departments to help someone who is less fortunate.
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MARCH 25 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation. - Romans 5:6-11 This is the day where Christians memorialize the death of Jesus. It is referred to as Good Friday not because the crucifixion of Jesus was a pleasant event, but because Christ’s death on the cross, meant that our relationship with God was now repaired. Christ’s death paid the penalty for our sins. Christ gave His life even when we were unwilling to serve Him, love Him, or live for Him. We are not saved for pure pleasure; we are saved to serve and give our life back to God.
MY THOUGHTS
FURTHER REFLECTION Think about the great sacrifice God made to send His son to die for our sins. Read the account of the Crucifixion of Christ in John 19:17-42. Reflect on His sacrifice and thank Him.
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MARCH 26 Now there was a man named Joseph, a member of the Council, a good and upright man, who had not consented to their decision and action. He came from the Judean town of Arimathea, and he himself was waiting for the kingdom of God. Going to Pilate, he asked for Jesus’ body. Then he took it down, wrapped it in linen cloth and placed it in a tomb cut in the rock, one in which no one had yet been laid. It was Preparation Day, and the Sabbath was about to begin. The women who had come with Jesus from Galilee followed Joseph and saw the tomb and how his body was laid in it. Then they went home and prepared spices and perfumes. But they rested on the Sabbath in obedience to the commandment. - Luke 23:50-56 After Jesus had given his life, a man gave his land to preserve the dignity of Jesus body and burial. Tombs were not free, but Joseph was willing to make a sacrifice to take care of Jesus. He gave his valuable space so that he could be of service to the ‘body of Christ’. In the same way, we are called to give our valuable space and place to the people of God for the purpose of helping advance the kingdom of God.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Make a commitment to give your precious time and precious valuables to the Body of Christ. It is not always about giving money. Commit to giving things that are of great worth to you for the use of ministry. Consider giving more of your time to ministry. . Consider giving more of resources to make connections for the work of ministry.
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MARCH 27
(EASTER)
Now, brothers and sisters, I want to remind you of the gospel I preached to you, which you received and on which you have taken your stand. By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures, and that he appeared to Cephas, and then to the Twelve. After that, he appeared to more than five hundred of the brothers and sisters at the same time, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep. Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles, and last of all he appeared to me also, as to one abnormally born. - 1 Corinthians 15:1-7 Easter, once a festival to commemorate spring, was adopted by Early Christians and repurposed to celebrate the resurrection of Christ. It is not the actual date of Jesus’ resurrection, but it is the chosen day to commemorate Jesus’ resurrection from the dead. The resurrection of Christ from the dead is central to our faith, and it distinguishes our faith from all the others. Unlike any other religion, the founder of the Christian faith is alive. Since He gave His all, believers should give their all to make sure others know about the truth of Jesus Christ, His death, burial, and resurrection from the dead. This is the Gospel.
MY THOUGHTS FURTHER REFLECTION Commit to share with someone about what Easter means to you.
Use the
conversation to share with them the good news of Jesus Christ and invite them to make a decision to accept Christ as their personal Savior.
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Congratulations! You have completed the Fast to Freedom! I pray that you enjoyed reflecting on your time, talent and treasure and that you heard from God about how you can use them to help build His kingdom. God has a unique plan and purpose for every one of us and it is important that we spend time evaluating if we are lining up with it. Continue to set aside time every day to connect with God through prayer. Your life will be better for it! Please share your fasting experiences on our Facebook page using the hashtags #ESCFreedom and #FreeIndeed. Your experiences are guaranteed to encourage someone else!
Pastor Jeffrey A. Johnson, Sr.