21 Days of Awakening
January 7th-27th
Real Life Habits are essential for nurturing a strong spiritual life. These habits include consistent prayer for ongoing communication with God, studying God's Word for wisdom, memorizing scripture for guidance in times of need, and actively applying these truths and principles in daily life. These practices will help you align daily actions with spiritual values.
1. Prayer: Cultivate a habit of daily prayer, engaging in personal dialogue with God. Prayer provides an avenue to develop intimacy with God, provides inner peace, and offers guidance by the Holy Spirit.
"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
2. Reading God's Word: Dedicate time each day to read and meditate on God’s word. This will bring inspiration, revelation, and application to strengthen faith and bring spiritual guidance to your life.
"Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path.” Psalm 119:105
3. Committing to Memorize or write down meaningful verses or passages that resonate with your spirit. This will provide spiritual strength in difficult times and keep your mind, will and emotions anchored in truth.
"I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you.” Psalm 119:11
4. Practical Application: Actively apply the principles and teachings of the Bible in daily life. Be sensitive in every situation so that the impact of the word is fully realized and can bear fruit.
"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” James 1:22
Week 1: Restoration
Biblical Restoration is a theme that is throughout the Bible, offering us a message of renewal, and a return to a deeper connection with God. It tells us that no matter the trials we have faced or failures experienced, God’s unwavering love and grace invite us back, not just to our original state but to a more fulfilling relationship with Him. In the Old Testament, this is beautifully illustrated through the story of the Israelites. Their return from exile and the rebuilding of Jerusalem symbolizes not only a physical restoration but a spiritual awakening and recommitment to God. Leaders like Nehemiah and Ezra, in their efforts to reconstruct the city, are also guiding the people toward rebuilding their faith and spirit. In the New Testament, the concept of restoration becomes even more personal through the life and example of Jesus Christ. His miracles – healing the sick, and giving sight to the blind – are not just physical healings but are symbolic of the transformative power of God's love in our lives. The resurrection of Jesus is the climax of this theme, offering redemption, the promise of new life, and a restored relationship with God. This restoration is about more than returning to a previous state; it’s about progressing in a fulfilling, flourishing, and fruitful future filled with hope, joy, and peace. It's a reminder that no matter our struggles, there's always a path leading to a life with love and purpose, and a sense of belonging in the arms of God. As we progress through this time I hope that God will do a refresh, and a reset to continue the restorative work he has already started. When we have a restoration mindset we realize that God isn’t finished with us yet and that the good work He has started He will complete. So as we embark on this season of awakening let’s be open to God’s restorative work in our life.
Week 2: Relationships
In the tapestry of life, relationships are the threads that weave the intricate patterns of our existence. At the core of these connections lies the paramount importance of an intimate relationship with God, who loves us so much. Just as a symphony requires each instrument to play in harmony, our lives find resonance when grounded in a deep, growing, and meaningful relationship with our Creator.
The Bible teaches us that God is love (1 John 4:8). This foundational truth reveals the significance of forging a deepening bond with Him. When we center our lives on this divine, unconditional love, it becomes the wellspring from which all other relationships draw their strength, purpose, and health.
Our relationship with God serves as the compass guiding the direction of our interactions with others. It cultivates qualities such as compassion, forgiveness, and patience, shaping us into vessels of His grace and reconciliation. As we embrace God's love, we are better equipped to extend that love to those around us, encouraging a relational environment of understanding and kindness.
The transformation that occurs in our hearts through a relationship with God helps us to overcome the self-centered tendencies that can hinder how we relate to ourselves anothers.
Moreover, our relationship with God, helps us navigate the complexities of human relationships. It empowers us to approach conflicts with humility, seeking reconciliation rather than division. In the face of adversity, a relationship with God inspires us to show His love and be an instrument and influence of healing.
Week3: Resiliency
Biblical Resiliency explores the strength and perseverance that individuals develop in their spiritual lives that will carry them through difficult circumstances. With God, we can receive an unyielding, fortification from Him that will cause a capacity to endure hardships without giving up on what God grows in us through those difficult times. The Bible is full of stories of individuals who, despite immense trials, remained resilient through their unwavering faith in God as they cried out for help, receiving what was needed for each complicated circumstance so that God would be glorified.
Job, in the Old Testament, is a prime example of resilience. Despite enduring immense suffering, including the loss of his family, wealth, and health, Job remains steadfast in his faith. He refuses to curse God, maintaining his trust in the midst of adversity. Ultimately, God restores Job's fortunes, highlighting the resilience that arises from unwavering faith.
Joseph: Joseph's life is marked by resilience in the face of betrayal and hardship. Sold into slavery by his own brothers, falsely accused and imprisoned, Joseph remains faithful to God. His resilience is evident as he rises from a slave and prisoner to become a high-ranking official in Egypt. Joseph's story reflects the redemptive power of perseverance through trials.
David: King David's life is marked by both triumphs and trials. From being a shepherd boy to facing the giant Goliath and later enduring years of exile and betrayal, David's resilience is evident in his ability to turn to God for strength. The Psalms, many written by David, reveal a resilient spirit that seeks God's refuge in times of trouble.
Esther: Esther's story is one of resilience and courage. As an orphan, she rises to become a queen, and when faced with the threat of genocide against her people, she risks her life to approach the king. Esther's resilience is seen in her willingness to step into a challenging role and trust in God's providence for the deliverance of her people.
Paul: The apostle Paul demonstrates remarkable resilience throughout his missionary journeys. Despite facing persecution, imprisonment, and shipwrecks, Paul remains committed to spreading the message of Christ. His letters, written from prison, reflect a spirit of endurance and unwavering faith, inspiring generations to come.
These biblical examples of resilience showcase individuals who, despite facing significant challenges, remained steadfast in their faith, demonstrating endurance, trust in God, and the ability to overcome adversity. Their stories continue to inspire and encourage believers to navigate life's difficulties with resilience grounded in faith.