Your Personal Grow-Pray-Study (GPS) Guide

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Day 1: Read Numbers 6:24. Please note that the “you” is personal. You might think God is telling Moses to give the blessing to everybody, and yes it does apply to everybody. But even more when He says, “The Lord bless you.” He means you personally. Take time to thank God today He knows what you are facing and ask for His blessing in what you face in the day ahead.  

Day 2: Read Psalm 121:5-7.  We are blessed because Jesus pays a price we could never pay and gives us a relationship we could never earn. As we begin our worship services in God’s name, the benediction reminds us God goes with us to not only bless us, but to keep us, to watch over us all our days. Looking back over the past couple days, how has God been watching over you? Where do you pray for Him to watch over in the day ahead?

Day 3: Read Numbers 6:25. In our worship services we take time to confess our sins and hear God’s word of forgiveness. We celebrate the Lord’s Supper and receive the body and blood of Christ for the forgiveness of our sins. As a final personal reminder for you Moses reminds us that the LORD is smiling on you, He’s gracious to you. He has not only forgiven you for the sins of the past week. He’s ready to forgive what the future holds. He will never give up on you. What sins do you need to confess from the past day and receive the forgiveness Jesus gives?

Day 4: Read Psalm 67:1-2. The psalmist having experienced God’s forgiveness recognizes the purpose of living the blessed life is to make God known to all people. No one is too far from God. Jesus died for the sins of all the world. Our Heavenly Father wants everyone back in the family. He offers a life of forgiveness and blessing and sends us forth with His smile on us and His forgiving love over us. Who will you pray for today to know God’s forgiveness and love? 

Day 5: Read Numbers 6:26. For God’s face to be turned to you and to shine upon you means to have an intimate, personal relationship with God. When the benediction says, “the Lord turn his face toward you”. That means He’s paying attention. His eyes are on you. He’s ready to help. Where do you need to ask Him for help today? Where do you need to praise Him for helping you yesterday?

Day 6: Read Psalm 29:10-11. God’s end game is peace, life working together, whole and complete. We think of peace as the absence of conflict or war. God thinks peace is a whole lot more. The Hebrew word Shalom has the idea of life working out. How have you sensed God working out your life this week? This year? Where do you pray for His hand of peace, of life working out in your life this summer?

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "The Blessing: Giving the Gift of Unconditional Love and Acceptance" by John Trent, Gary Smalley, & Kari Trent Stageberg (Amazon Kindle)

• "A Praying Life: Connecting with God in a Distracting World" by Paul Miller (Amazon Kindle)

• "Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids" by Kara Powell & Chap Clark (Amazon Kindle)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

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Day 1: Read 1 John 5:14. John uses the word “confidence” in approaching God in prayer? What word(s) would you use to describe your approach to God in prayer? 

Day 2: Read 1 John 5:14. We believe when we pray God listens. God acts. God responds. Think through a recent prayer request, how has God responded? What holds you back from believing God is listening? What affirms your belief God listens to your prayers?

Day 3: Read 1 John 5:14. Most people like to focus on the “if we ask anything” part, and you are allowed to ask anything. But John’s wise focus is on the second part of our asking, “according to His will”. What are some of your according to God’s will prayers you are praying?

Day 4: Read Mark 14:36. How do you know you have moved from praying “my will be done” to “Your will be done” when praying to God? 

Day 5: Read 1 John 5:15. John tells us when we pray, God answers. It might take a bit of time to see the answer, but God answers immediately. He answers: No, Slow, Grow, Go. How have you seen God answer in all 4 ways to your prayers? What has been His most recent answer to your prayer request? 

Day 6: Read Matthew 6:9. Martin Luther explained this petition by saying we know that God’s will, will be done with us or without us. We pray in this petition that God’s will is done with us. Where are you praying to join God in His will being done?

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "A Praying Life: Connecting with God in a Distracting World" by Paul Miller (Amazon Kindle)

• "Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids" by Kara Powell & Chap Clark (Amazon Kindle)

• "The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People (Selections from the New International Version)" by Randy Frazee & Max Lucado (Amazon Kindle)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

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If you are not regularly tithing, then please consider joining the "90 Day" giving challenge -- starting next Sunday, June 13 through Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021 by giving any amount you feel comfortable as a regular Sunday worship offering. 

After 90 days, count your new blessings -- "Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it." - Malachi 3:11. If you think you need a refund, then please contact Pastor Travis.

Day 1: Read 2 Corinthians 9:6-7. What can you do today to 'sow generously' as a 'cheerful giver'?

Day 2: Read 2 Corinthians 9:8-9. As God blesses you, how are you blessing others?

Day 3: Read 2 Corinthians 9:10-11. How are you celebrating God's thanksgiving and sharing these thanksgivings with others?

Day 4: Read 2 Corinthians 9:12-13. Service to others is a genuine gift to give generously.  Where could you provide those with a service they desperately need? 

Day 5: Read 2 Corinthians 9:14-15. Prayer is also a genuine gift to give generously. Please continue to pray for those in need, and thank God for the grace He has abundantly poured out to for you.

Day 6: Read Mark 12:41-44. What might you be holding on to that you could give like the 'poor widow who put in everything -- all she had to live on.' Trust the Lord!

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids" by Kara Powell and Chap Clark (Amazon Kindle)

• "The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People (Selections from the New International Version)" by Randy Frazee & Max Lucado (Amazon Kindle)

• "Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God" by Mark Batterson (Amazon Kindle)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

Photo by Nycholas Benaia on Unsplash

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Day 1: Read 2 Timothy 3:10. Paul doesn’t write these words out of arrogance, but out of care. He has tried his best, through the power of the Holy Spirit, to live a life of example for others. Whose example have you followed in recent days? What example have you set for others?

Day 2: Read 2 Timothy 3:11. Paul has been faithful to God, even while enduring persecution. He focuses the attention on God when he says, “from them all, the Lord rescued me.” Take time to ask God to rescue you from whatever situation or idol is holding you captive.

Day 3: Read 2 Timothy 3:14. Paul admonishes us to “continue in what we have learned.” In what ways are you continuing to learn about the Bible, faith, Jesus, etc.? What goals do you need to set in your continuing journey as a dynamic disciple of Jesus?

Day 4: Read 2 Timothy 3:15. Paul speaks of how childhood is when we start to learn about salvation. In what ways have you mentored the next generation, or participated in their ongoing learning about the faith? Take time today to pray for all the children and parents in our school and church, that they may grow in faith and love towards God and others.

Day 5: Read 2 Timothy 3:16. All of scripture is profitable for teaching. This means that everything in the bible can contribute to how we look at life. Consider starting a daily devotional that takes you through various parts of scripture.

Day 6: Read 2 Timothy 3:17. God wants to equip us for every good work. What growth opportunities do you have in life right now? If you need to work on anger, search for what scripture teaches on anger. If you need to work on loving others, focus on scripture that teaches about what love is.

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids" by Kara Powell and Chap Clark (Amazon Kindle)

• "The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People (Selections from the New International Version)" by Randy Frazee & Max Lucado (Amazon Kindle)

• "Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God" by Mark Batterson (Amazon Kindle)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

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Each day this week, use the Creed for guided prayer and thoughtful meditation.

Learn more about each part of the Apostles’ Creed.

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids" by Kara Powell and Chap Clark (Amazon Kindle)

• "The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People (Selections from the New International Version)" by Randy Frazee & Max Lucado (Amazon Kindle)

• "Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God" by Mark Batterson (Amazon Kindle)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

Photo by Erika Giraud on Unsplash

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Day 1: Read Mark 10:14. What lessons have children taught you about faith? 

Day 2: Read Deuteronomy 4:9. Moses reminds parents (and the rest of us) our responsibility, opportunity and blessing to path on the Christian faith to the next generation. Who in the next generation might God be calling you to pass on the faith?

Day 3: Read Proverbs 22:6. There was a time when it was popular to describe the key to raising a child with the phrase, “it takes a village.”  I’d suggest “it takes a church.” Not just on Sunday mornings, but people around your child who support their faith growth. We call it “sticky faith” at Christ Lutheran Church. Who has God used to make your faith stick? How might God want to use you to make another one of His children’s faith stick?

Day 4: Read Deuteronomy 6:7. Moses reminds us “faith talk” is not just for Sunday mornings, but for every day. How have you been carrying “faith lessons” learned on Sunday throughout your week? 

Day 5: Read Psalm 78:6-7. Who passed on the Christian faith to you? Who are you praying for who will follow Jesus today? 

Day 6: Read Luke 2:52. Mary and Joseph do a good job of raising Jesus. What are you doing to grow in your faith walk this past week and in the week ahead?

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "Sticky Faith: Everyday Ideas to Build Lasting Faith in Your Kids" by Kara Powell and Chap Clark (Amazon Kindle)

• "The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People (Selections from the New International Version)" by Randy Frazee & Max Lucado (Amazon Kindle)

• "Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God" by Mark Batterson (Amazon Kindle)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

Photo by Aaron Burden on Unsplash

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Day 1: Read Deuteronomy 31:11-12. When do you (and your family) spend time in God’s Word? How is that working for you? What habits do you need to affirm and/or change? 

Day 2: Read 1 Thessalonians 5:27. Paul realizes when you know who you are you will know what to do. What has God been saying about who you are and what you are to do through His Word?

Day 3: Read Psalm 119:105. Where is God leading you through His Word? What path is His light shining on in your life? What next step will you take?

Day 4: Read Romans 15:4. Besides Romans 15:4, what other Bible passages and stories teach you endurance and encouragement? What reminders can you place in your life to remember God’s Word for you? (One example -- writing a verse on a 3x5 card and placing it where you can see it every day.) 

Day 5: Read 1 Timothy 4:10. The heart of God’s great story is His love for all people through Jesus. Who can you pray for to know Jesus today?

Day 6: Read 1 Timothy 4:16. Only Jesus saves! Yet Jesus has chosen people as His instrument to tell His story. When people hear God’s love story, read and see God’s great love story they begin to sense this incredible Savior we share. Who is God nudging you to share His story with, in your life? (You might check who you prayed for on Day 5!)

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "The Story: The Bible as One Continuing Story of God and His People (Selections from the New International Version)" by Randy Frazee & Max Lucado  (Amazon Kindle)

• "Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God" by Mark Batterson (Amazon Kindle)

• “The Peace Maker” by Ken Sande (Amazon Kindle)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

Photo by Geda Žyvatkauskaitė on Unsplash

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Day 1: Read 1 Corinthians 11:23-24. For Martin Luther, those two words, “for you” were his favorite part of the words spoken in this meal. Luther realized the forgiveness promised for all in this meal was also specifically for him when he heard these words and received the body and blood of Christ by faith. What does it mean to you that when you receive the Lord’s Supper God’s forgiveness is for you? 

Day 2: Read Matthew 26:28. Every disciple at that first meal from Judas to Peter to Matthew, were all offered forgiveness. Every disciple that comes to this meal (including you and me) are all offered forgiveness. This meal reminds us the price Jesus paid with His body and blood given on the cross. What sins do you need to confess today to hear God’s Word of forgiveness for you?

Day 3: Read 1 Corinthians 11:25. In Holy Communion, we remember God unites us together and that Jesus is with us. Where do you tend to forget Jesus’ presence at work in your life? Where do you need to remember Him today?

Day 4: Read 1 Corinthians 10:16-17. The Greek word for participation, koinonia, also means fellowship. In Holy Communion we gather together as one. When Christians eat the body and drink the blood of Christ, we do more than remember. We are re-membered. We re-connect with Jesus and each other. How does celebrating communion help you to re-member being one with Jesus and with His followers?

Day 5: Read 1 Corinthians 11:24-25. “Do this” refers not only to what happens in this meal. Do this refers to how Jesus longs for us to live each day. We live with His grace. We live with His sacrificial love. We live to benefit others. We live empowered by Him, dependent by Him, loved by Him, and loving others. What do you sense Jesus calling you to do today?

Day 6: Read 1 Corinthians 11:26. Such a proclamation of who Jesus is, is not only for when we gather here around this table. Such a proclamation is meant to be shared throughout our lives.  Each day when you eat, take time to be eucharistic. Instead of a hurry up, let’s eat prayer. Pray a prayer of thanksgiving. Pray with a heart filled with love for others. Make time to pray with thanksgiving today!

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "Wild Goose Chase: Reclaim the Adventure of Pursuing God" by Mark Batterson (Amazon Kindle)
• “The Peace Maker” by Ken Sande (Amazon Kindle)
• "Life Together" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Amazon Kindle)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

Photo by Wesley Tingey on Unsplash

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Day 1: Read Psalm 118:8. It’s human nature – we put trust in people and things instead of God. Take time to confess to God about the idols you have erected in your life. Ask for the Spirit’s help in trusting God alone.

Day 2: Read James 4:11-12. Frequently we try and focus on someone else’s sins so that we don’t have to deal with what’s in our own heart. Take time to confess to God that you have often focused on other’s sins or misdeeds and haven’t focused on your own. Ask for the Spirit’s help in being aware of your own thoughts, words, and actions.

Day 3: Read Psalm 51. St. Augustine famously said, “Our hearts are restless, O Lord, until they find their rest in You.” What has your heart tried to rest in lately? Confess to God that your heart is stained with sin. Ask Christ to help you love what He loves.

Day 4: Read Psalm 32:1-2. Repeat to yourself the phrase “I am forgiven and loved.” Though we are all simultaneously saints and sinners, when the Father looks at us, He sees Jesus. Spend time in prayer thanking God for all He has done for you, and for the grace He bestows on you.

Day 5: Read Genesis 50:15-21. After being sold into slavery by his brothers, Joseph does the unthinkable: he forgives them! Think of the people who have wronged you in recent times. Spend time in prayer asking for God’s help in forgiving them. Think of what you have learned from their wrongdoing.

Day 6: Read Colossians 3:12-13. It’s easy to hold onto grudges – but remember – “Unforgiveness is a poison you drink hoping that someone else will die.” Commit to being a person who is quick to forgive, with the help of the Spirit.

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• “The Peace Maker” by Ken Sande (Amazon Kindle)
• "Life Together" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Amazon Kindle)
• "Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation" by Ruth Haley Barton (Paperback from Amazon)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.

Photo by Edward Cisneros on Unsplash

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Day 1: As you reflect on Psalm 95:1-7 listen to the song "Amazing Grace" (YouTube).

Day 2: As you reflect on Psalm 95:1-7 listen to the song "A Mighty Fortress Is Our Lord" (YouTube).

Day 3: As you reflect on Psalm 95:1-7 listen to the song "Jesus Loves Me" (YouTube).

Day 4: As you reflect on Psalm 95:1-7 listen to the song "My God Is So Great" (YouTube).

Day 5: As you reflect on Psalm 95:1-7 listen to the song "Holy Holy Holy Lord God Almighty" (YouTube).

Day 6: As you reflect on Psalm 95:1-7 listen to the song "10,000 Reasons" (YouTube).

Recent additional GO DEEPER reading opportunities:

• "This Changes Everything: Unleashing the Power of the Resurrection in Your Life" by Ray Johnston (Paperback from Amazon)
• "Discipleship" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Amazon Kindle)
• "Life Together" by Dietrich Bonhoeffer (Amazon Kindle)
• "Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation" by Ruth Haley Barton (Paperback from Amazon)

You can also watch this week's sermon or read the full message & GPS here.