April 22nd, 2024
by Tony Stephens
by Tony Stephens
Here is a five day devotion from Sunday's message, "Over Our Future" that you can use to jump start your Bible study!
There are links to the message and timestamps to allow you to refresh your memory from the message.
Day 1: Embracing Christ's Sovereign Authority
Reflecting on the resurrection of Jesus not only reminds us of His victory over death but also His ongoing authority over all creation. This authority is not confined to the past; it actively shapes our present and future. By acknowledging and submitting to Christ's authority, believers find a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. This submission is not about losing one's identity but discovering the true essence of being created in the image of God. It's about living in a way that aligns with divine will and experiencing the peace and joy that come from this alignment. [26:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=1572s)
Colossians 1:16-17 - "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."
Reflection: How does recognizing Christ's authority over your life change your daily decisions and interactions?
---
Day 2: Renewal Through God's Transformative Love
God's love offers a powerful renewal each day, allowing us to move beyond our past mistakes and embrace a future aligned with His purposes. This renewal is transformative, reshaping our identities and enabling us to live out the new life we have in Christ. Each day presents an opportunity to grow more into the likeness of Jesus, reflecting His love and grace to those around us. This process involves daily choices that foster healthier patterns and relationships, guided by the Holy Spirit. [27:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=1613s)
Lamentations 3:22-23 - "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you need God's renewing love to transform you today?
---
Day 3: Trusting God's Provision Over Worry
Worrying about the future can consume our thoughts and energy, but Jesus teaches us that such worry is futile. Our Heavenly Father knows our needs and is fully capable of providing for us. As believers, we are called to live a life of trust, seeking God's kingdom and righteousness first, and trusting that all our needs will be met according to His riches and glory. This trust frees us from anxiety and allows us to live in peace and contentment. [34:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=2043s)
Psalm 55:22 - "Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved."
Reflection: What specific worry about the future can you commit to God today, trusting in His provision?
---
Day 4: Discerning God's Will in Decision Making
When facing decisions, it's crucial to discern whether our choices align with Scripture, make us more like Christ, and benefit others. These criteria help us avoid paths that lead away from God's best for our lives. By consistently aligning our actions with God's Word, we ensure that our lives reflect His truth and love, and we make decisions that are not only good for us but also for the community around us. [48:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=2878s)
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Reflection: What decision do you need to make that requires you to closely examine if it aligns with God's Word and His character?
---
Day 5: Prioritizing God's Kingdom for True Peace
Prioritizing God's kingdom above all else is the ultimate antidote to anxiety and worry. This priority rearranges our desires and goals to align with God's will, leading to a life filled with purpose and peace. When we seek God first, all other aspects of our lives receive His blessing and fall into their proper place, guided by His wise and loving hand. This commitment to God's kingdom influences every decision and interaction we have. [51:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=3047s)
Matthew 6:33 - "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Reflection: How can you better prioritize God's kingdom in your daily activities and long-term goals?
There are links to the message and timestamps to allow you to refresh your memory from the message.
Day 1: Embracing Christ's Sovereign Authority
Reflecting on the resurrection of Jesus not only reminds us of His victory over death but also His ongoing authority over all creation. This authority is not confined to the past; it actively shapes our present and future. By acknowledging and submitting to Christ's authority, believers find a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment. This submission is not about losing one's identity but discovering the true essence of being created in the image of God. It's about living in a way that aligns with divine will and experiencing the peace and joy that come from this alignment. [26:27](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=1572s)
Colossians 1:16-17 - "For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him. And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together."
Reflection: How does recognizing Christ's authority over your life change your daily decisions and interactions?
---
Day 2: Renewal Through God's Transformative Love
God's love offers a powerful renewal each day, allowing us to move beyond our past mistakes and embrace a future aligned with His purposes. This renewal is transformative, reshaping our identities and enabling us to live out the new life we have in Christ. Each day presents an opportunity to grow more into the likeness of Jesus, reflecting His love and grace to those around us. This process involves daily choices that foster healthier patterns and relationships, guided by the Holy Spirit. [27:08](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=1613s)
Lamentations 3:22-23 - "The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness."
Reflection: What is one area in your life where you need God's renewing love to transform you today?
---
Day 3: Trusting God's Provision Over Worry
Worrying about the future can consume our thoughts and energy, but Jesus teaches us that such worry is futile. Our Heavenly Father knows our needs and is fully capable of providing for us. As believers, we are called to live a life of trust, seeking God's kingdom and righteousness first, and trusting that all our needs will be met according to His riches and glory. This trust frees us from anxiety and allows us to live in peace and contentment. [34:18](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=2043s)
Psalm 55:22 - "Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved."
Reflection: What specific worry about the future can you commit to God today, trusting in His provision?
---
Day 4: Discerning God's Will in Decision Making
When facing decisions, it's crucial to discern whether our choices align with Scripture, make us more like Christ, and benefit others. These criteria help us avoid paths that lead away from God's best for our lives. By consistently aligning our actions with God's Word, we ensure that our lives reflect His truth and love, and we make decisions that are not only good for us but also for the community around us. [48:13](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=2878s)
Proverbs 3:5-6 - "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."
Reflection: What decision do you need to make that requires you to closely examine if it aligns with God's Word and His character?
---
Day 5: Prioritizing God's Kingdom for True Peace
Prioritizing God's kingdom above all else is the ultimate antidote to anxiety and worry. This priority rearranges our desires and goals to align with God's will, leading to a life filled with purpose and peace. When we seek God first, all other aspects of our lives receive His blessing and fall into their proper place, guided by His wise and loving hand. This commitment to God's kingdom influences every decision and interaction we have. [51:02](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7U4RzAvl30&t=3047s)
Matthew 6:33 - "But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Reflection: How can you better prioritize God's kingdom in your daily activities and long-term goals?
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