Journey of faith: Obedience & Reverence

Introduction

This devotional booklet aims to guide teenagers in understanding the importance of cultivating good character, as emphasised in the Bible, for a purposeful and fulfilling life.

We will delve into two key virtues – obedience and reverence as mentioned in Deuteronomy 6:1-9 and Ephesians 4:1-4 – essential aspects of being a Christ-follower. Each devotional will explore the journeys of various individuals including contemporary people and Bible characters, in their obedience and reverence towards God and the authorities.

Following this, the Bible passage reflections will encourage you to apply these teachings to your daily life. Should you feel the need to converse with God, our prayer section provides prayers for your use, and offers space for personal or group prayers if you’re doing this with a group.

Join us in this life-changing exploration of character development and spiritual growth.

DAY01 Choose Life

Today’s Bible Reading

Deuteronomy 30:15-20

19b Now choose life, so that you and your children may live 20a and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. -Deuteronomy 30:19b-20a

Questions:

1. What were the two options that Moses laid before the people of Israel (Deuteronomy 30:15, 16-18, 19)?

2. Why are the two options divided in that way?

For example, why couldn’t the Israelites choose other gods and still have life, prosperity, and blessing (Deuteronomy 30:16, 20)?

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, we know that true wisdom comes from leaning on You. Help us to trust in You and to listen to Your plan given in Your life-giving words in the Bible.

What is God’s plan for my life? The question haunted me when I was growing up. What if I couldn’t find it? What if I didn’t recognise it? God’s plan seemed like a needle in a haystack. Hidden. Disguised by lookalikes. Outnumbered by fakes.

But my view of God’s plan and purpose was wrong because my view of God was wrong. God takes no pleasure in seeing us lost, wandering or searching. He wants us to know His plan. He makes it clear and He makes it simple. He doesn’t even make it multiple-choice. He gives just two choices: “life and prosperity” or “death and destruction” (Deuteronomy 30:15). In case the best choice isn’t obvious, He even says which one to choose: “choose life” (v.19). To choose life is to choose God Himself and obey the Bible.

When Moses spoke to the Israelites for the last time, he pleaded with them to make the right choice by “obey[ing] carefully all the words of this law... [because] They are not just idle words for you—they are your life” (32:4647). God’s plan for us is life with Him. His words are life. And Jesus is the Word. God may not give step-by-step instructions for every decision, but He gave us a perfect example to follow—Jesus. The right choice may not be easy, but when He is our guide and living for Him is our goal, God will give us the wisdom to make good life choices.

By Julie Ackerman Link

3. Have you made the choice to believe in Jesus as your Lord and Saviour and to follow Him? If you have, share with the group how you came to know Him and choose Him. If you have not, share what is holding you back from making that choice. (Or, if you are doing this challenge as an individual, reflect on the question and jot down your answer in the space provided.)