3:257 – Let’s Get Started

#faithbites #faithjourney started #BEINGChallenge

Setting

I don’t know about you, but I’m always excited to start something new. I may be a bit nervous but I am always excited. Our church is about to being a 40 day deep dive by completing the #BEINGChallenge. This is similiar to the #RedLetterChallenge we did last year, where we spend each day in God’s word, challenging ourselves to Be more with Christ. It’s not easy as things get in the way, but I’m ready to get started.

During the challenge we will learn about the five habits of Jesus: Commit to Community, Study Scripture, Prioritize Prayer, Seek Solitude, Choose Church. We will never reach perfection and that’s ok, but each day we walk with Jesus we get closer.

Scripture

• James 4:8 – Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
• Colossians 3:1 – Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand.
• Psalm 145:18 – The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.

Reflection

Our scriptures say it all. God wants us to be near to him. He wants us to be clean and enjoy everything he has. Through Jesus, we have new life. Now all we have to do is start BEING like he wants us to. Like everything in life, we can’t do it alone. This is a chance to be part of something, studying God’s word, finding out how much he loves you, and learning about how Jesus practiced habits to keep his life on track. Habits that we can learn and emulate.

I’m going to keep this short as starting on Tuesday most of our #faithbites with be #BEINGChallenge related. I’m excited, are you?

Challenge

I challenge you to complete the challenge with me and bring your family along. This is open to all ages. There is even a kids book and activities.

Send me an email and I will get you a book, no charge if you don’t have one. It’s easier if you have moral support. I’d love to have more people doing this with me and my church.

Prayer

Father God, thank you for your Son, Jesus. Help us to practice habits that will let us be closer to you and Him. Allow us to emulate his life, study your word, and be more directive about our #fiathjourney.

Lord, we know that the closer we get to you, the harder Satan fights. Put a hedge of protection around Trinity Lutheran and all of your people. Tell Lucifer to stand back (at least six feet) as we want no part in him. Protect your people as we begin the next 40 days of BEING with You. In your name, Amen.