5 Day Devotional

Speak Life, Not Death

Day 1: Putting Off the Old Self
Reading: Ephesians 4:17-24

Devotional: Paul’s words to the Ephesians remind us of the transformative power of Christ in our lives. Just as Jesus died on the cross and rose again, we too are called to “put off” our old selves and embrace a new life in Christ. This isn’t merely about behavior modification, but a complete renewal of our minds and hearts.

Reflect on areas of your life where you might still be clinging to old patterns or worldly thinking. How can you actively “put on the new self” today? Remember, this transformation isn’t something we achieve on our own, but through the power of the Holy Spirit working within us. Pray for God’s guidance in identifying and releasing those old ways, embracing instead the “true righteousness and holiness” that comes from being created in God’s image.

Day 2: Speaking Truth in Love
Reading: Ephesians 4:15-16, 25-29

Devotional: The power of our words cannot be overstated. As followers of Christ, we’re called to use our speech not for tearing down, but for building up. This doesn’t mean avoiding difficult conversations, but approaching them with love and a desire for mutual growth.

Consider your recent interactions. Have your words been life-giving, or have they contributed to discord? Challenge yourself to speak “truth in love” today, whether that means offering sincere encouragement, gently addressing an issue, or simply listening with compassion. Remember, our goal is to reflect Christ’s love in all our communication, contributing to the growth and unity of the body of Christ.

Day 3: The Cross-Shaped Life
Reading: Philippians 2:1-11

Devotional: Jesus exemplified the ultimate act of self-sacrificial love on the cross. As His followers, we’re called to model our lives after His example. This “cross-shaped” life isn’t about seeking comfort or personal gain, but about humbly serving others and putting their needs before our own.

Reflect on areas where you might be holding onto selfish ambitions or vain conceit. How can you cultivate a more Christ-like mindset today? Look for practical ways to “consider others better than yourself” – perhaps by performing an act of service without seeking recognition, or by choosing to listen and understand someone else’s perspective before asserting your own. Remember, living a cross-shaped life isn’t about grand gestures, but daily choices to die to self and live for Christ.

Day 4: Renewed in the Spirit of Your Mind
Reading: Romans 12:1-2

Devotional: The transformation that occurs when we follow Christ isn’t just external – it’s a complete renewal of our minds. This renewal challenges us to reject the patterns of this world and instead align our thinking with God’s will.

Today, pay attention to your thought patterns. Are there areas where worldly values or perspectives have crept in? Ask the Holy Spirit to help you identify these areas and to renew your mind according to God’s truth. This might involve meditating on Scripture, consciously replacing negative thoughts with godly ones, or seeking wise counsel from mature believers. Remember, this renewal is an ongoing process, requiring daily surrender and dependence on God’s grace.

Day 5: Love that Transforms
Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-8a, John 15:9-17

Devotional: At the heart of the Christian life is love – not a fleeting emotion, but a deep, sacrificial commitment modeled after Christ’s love for us. This love has the power to transform not only our own lives but the lives of those around us.

Reflect on how you express love to others. Is it conditional or self-serving, or does it reflect the patient, kind, and selfless love described in 1 Corinthians? Challenge yourself to love others “as Christ loved us” today. This might mean forgiving someone who has hurt you, showing kindness to someone difficult to love, or sacrificing your own comfort for the sake of another. Remember, our capacity to love comes from abiding in Christ’s love for us. Spend time in prayer, asking God to fill you with His love so that it may overflow to others.