DEVOTIONAL

Day 1: Love That Hurts
Reading: John 11:1-44
Devotional: Jesus’ love for Lazarus and his sisters was profound, yet He allowed them to experience the pain of loss. Sometimes, God’s love may feel painful or confusing when He doesn’t immediately rescue us from difficult situations. However, like Jesus weeping with Mary and Martha, God is present in our pain. He may delay His response, but His timing is perfect and aimed at revealing His glory.
Today, reflect on a time when God’s love felt painful. How did that experience ultimately strengthen your faith or reveal God’s glory?

Day 2: The Cost of Discipleship
Reading: Luke 9:23-26
Devotional: Following Jesus comes at a cost. As Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “What has cost God so much cannot be cheap for us.” Christ’s call to take up our cross daily reminds us that discipleship involves sacrifice and suffering. Yet, this path leads to true life.
Consider what it means to “deny yourself” in your current circumstances. What comfort or security might God be asking you to surrender to follow Him more closely?

Day 3: Suffering with Purpose
Reading: Romans 5:1-5
Devotional: Suffering is not meaningless for believers. God uses our trials to produce perseverance, character, and hope. Like the Israelites in the desert, our difficulties can teach us to depend on God. When we endure hardship with faith, we participate in Christ’s sufferings and grow in His likeness.
Reflect on a current challenge you’re facing. Ask God to reveal what He might be teaching you through this experience and how it can shape your character.

Day 4: Healing Through Wounds
Reading: Isaiah 53:4-6
Devotional: Christ’s wounds bring us healing. Remarkably, God can use our own scars and pain to bring healing and hope to others. When we vulnerably share how God has worked through our suffering, it can powerfully minister to those around us. Think about a past hurt or struggle you’ve experienced.
How might God use that “scar” to encourage or help someone else? Ask for courage to share your story when opportunities arise.

Day 5: Enduring Love
Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Devotional: Love perseveres. It doesn’t give up when relationships become difficult or when our acts of kindness aren’t appreciated. Christ’s love on the cross - forgiving those who crucified Him - is our ultimate example. This enduring love isn’t based on the worthiness of its object, but on obedience to God.
Consider a relationship or situation where you’re tempted to give up loving. How can you draw strength from Christ’s example to keep showing love, even when it’s hard?