40 Days of cHesed—Day 15

WEEK 3 – Fellowship: You Were Formed For God’s Family

[Note: Remember that this was written for use every day of the week--but I'm only publishing them Monday-Friday! Don't let that "week 3" confuse you ;^)]

Day 15 Formed for God’s Family

We have used many images of family life these past two weeks. And we’ll be using more in the weeks to come—but especially this week.

For some of us, the use of this image of family is difficult to relate to because our family circumstances have not been especially healthy or happy. If this is your circumstance, we have good news for you!

When we are adopted into God’s family, we get a new Father and the perfect Big Brother! If we will let him, God will re-parent us toward more healthy and happy family relationships.

Family relationships. That means that this week we’ll be looking more closely at what it means to be part of God’s family. We’ll look at attitudes and behaviors we must allow God to change so that our experience together on earth will further prepare us for eternal life in heaven.

Today’s Look at 1 John

Remember to feel the flow of John’s thoughts this week, so that you’ll have a better understanding of John’s words.

Read 1 John 2:18 through 3:10. While you’re reading, notice the importance of belonging.

Getting In Shape

This third week we want you to accelerate a little. Invite God to fill you daily with the Holy Spirit so that you will be able to remain on target and faithful to God’s purpose.

We all need signs and markers along our exercise route. You know, it’s like when you get to the house with the big fence (and bigger dog behind it), there’s just three more blocks until you’re home. Or, we need that buddy to keep us faithful and moving along at a good pace.

Now that you’re inviting God to spend each day with you, including him in each conversation and activity, it’s time to ask him to fill you with the Holy Spirit every day so you can do his will. (See John 14:16-27.)

Let’s take a good, slow stretch to keep that muscle from cramping!

Whoa…we’re moving beyond asking God to come along with us – we’re asking the Holy Spirit to take us along with him! That’s a very different story. Hold on…the scenery’s about to change drastically!

The good news is, we’re moving from going on foot to riding a tandem bike. Perhaps you’ve heard that story about riding a tandem bike with Jesus as the driver in the front seat: You can’t always see where you’re going, you don’t get to steer, but you’re confident in your destination and you’re not pedaling alone. And when the going gets tough, Jesus shouts back to you: “just put your head down and keep pedaling.” Then, when you get to the top of the hill and stop for a rest, the view is astounding – and the ride down is exhilarating!

• Invite God to spend the day with you.

• Invite God to join each of your conversations and activities.

• Invite God to fill you daily with the Holy Spirit so that you will be able to remain on target (obey) and faithful to God’s purpose (loving him and others).