Daily Devotions (Sermon-Based)
Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from the sermon entitled "You Can Run, but You Can't Hide"
Day 1: The Lord's Battle Reading: Joshua 10:8-14
Devotional: As we read about Joshua's miraculous victory, we're reminded that our battles ultimately belong to the Lord. Just as God fought for Israel, He fights for us today. When facing challenges, it's easy to rely on our own strength or seek refuge in worldly solutions. However, true victory comes when we surrender our struggles to God and trust in His power.
Reflect on areas in your life where you may be trying to fight battles on your own. How can you invite God into these situations? Remember, with God on our side, no obstacle is insurmountable. Today, practice handing over your concerns to the Lord, acknowledging His sovereignty and trusting in His perfect timing and methods.
Day 2: You Can Run, But You Can't Hide Reading: Psalm 139:7-12
Devotional: The story of the five kings hiding in the cave at Makkedah illustrates a profound truth - we cannot hide from God. Like these kings, we sometimes foolishly believe we can conceal our sins or escape God's presence. Yet, as David beautifully expresses in Psalm 139, there is nowhere we can go to escape God's loving gaze.
This realization can be both comforting and convicting. It's comforting to know that God is always with us, even in our darkest moments. It's convicting because it means we can't hide our faults from Him. Today, instead of trying to hide, choose to be transparent with God. Confess any areas where you've been avoiding His presence, and embrace the freedom that comes with living openly before Him.
Day 3: From Death to Life Reading: John 11:38-44
Devotional: The resurrection of Lazarus powerfully demonstrates Jesus' authority over death. Just as Jesus called Lazarus out of the tomb, He calls each of us out of our spiritual death into new life. This miracle foreshadows Christ's own resurrection and the hope we have in Him.
Consider the areas in your life that feel spiritually "dead" - perhaps a relationship, a dream, or an aspect of your faith. Jesus is calling you to come out of that tomb today. What stones need to be rolled away for you to experience resurrection power in your life? Ask God to breathe new life into these areas, trusting that He who raised Lazarus can certainly bring renewal to your situation.
Day 4: The Danger of False Refuges Reading: Jeremiah 17:5-8
Devotional: The Pharisees in Jesus' time placed their trust in their religious status and knowledge, much like the five kings who sought refuge in a cave. Both discovered that false refuges ultimately become prisons. Jeremiah contrasts those who trust in man with those who trust in the Lord, using the vivid imagery of a shrub in the desert versus a tree planted by water.
Examine your life for false refuges - things you rely on for security or significance apart from God. These might include wealth, relationships, achievements, or even religious activities. How can you shift your trust more fully onto the Lord today? Remember, only He can provide true security and lasting fulfillment.
Day 5: The Empty Tomb - Our Refuge of Hope Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12-22
Devotional: The empty tomb of Jesus stands in stark contrast to the cave-turned-tomb of the five kings. While their cave became a place of death, Christ's empty tomb became the source of eternal life and hope for all believers. Paul emphasizes the critical importance of the resurrection to our faith and future hope.
As you reflect on the empty tomb, consider how this historical reality impacts your daily life. How does the resurrection power of Christ give you hope in your current circumstances? In what ways can you live today as a "resurrection person," demonstrating the transforming power of the gospel? Let the truth of the empty tomb fill you with joy and purpose as you go about your day, knowing that because He lives, we too shall live.
- 8 East Road, P.O. Box 804
- Atkinson, NH
- Rockingham County
- 03811
(603)505-9197