What does it mean to follow Jesus? A family devotional.

I can not believe I’m doing this, but (because apparently I am going to do this) we are now recording our family devotionals, unedited and completely uncut! First, my hope is that you will use these as a stepping stone to having your own family devotionals.  Second, that you will experience all the raw, dysfunction of our own family and not feel so bad about your own (this was sarcasm for those of you who do not know me). Read more

Don’t worry - be happy by praying and focusing on God

Who do we turn to in times of trouble? I know for me I used to turn to the person I experienced on a physical level, whether that be my parents, brother, sister, or friend. When we are stressed out it is easy to turn to people or things of this world for comfort and guidance. But Paul is pushing us to a much better, and in fact, much healthier response when we are stressed out.

Philippians 4:6-7 “Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life.”

Paul is encouraging us to run to God, let God know what is going on with our lives. When we pray, we reach out our hands to the Almighty in trust and reverence. The best part of us reaching out is that God takes our hand and comforts us - and he does it far better than anyone on this earth could ever do.

When our eyes are fixed on God it just becomes easier, and fellowship with Him gives us the wisdom and certainty to know how to move forward in a way that is pleasing to God, others, and even ourselves.

DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. How do you pray?
2. What do I do if God doesn’t answer my prayer right away?