Tuesday 16 July 2013

Read: Matthew 28:16-20; John 20:24-31

Do you come to church on a Sunday, hear the message and the call to live your life for Christ, only to find yourself filled with fear, doubt, uncertainty, and finding excuses and reasons why it's just too hard? You're not alone, I do too. The vision of the Kingdom of God, the call of the Church, the life we are called to live is overwhelming. For many of us, the Great Commission is something we find ourselves unworthy, unequipped, and unsure about how to put into practice.

 

But the disciples, the great Apostles of Jesus, shared the same thoughts despite seeing Jesus and worshipping Him, some doubted. Earlier, Thomas—also known as Thomas the doubter—did not believe that Jesus rose from the dead until Jesus appeared to him personally. Jesus doesn't criticise him, but emphasises the blessing of those who believe in Him but have not seen Him.

 

Similarly, Jesus said to His disciples:

 

All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me … and surely I am with you always, to the end of the age.

 

Jesus knows we can't do this on our own, and He doesn't expect us to do it alone. He reminds us that He has all authority, not people, not governments, not even Satan himself hold any power, but Jesus holds all the cards. So, as we go and seek to try and live our life for Him, making disciples, baptising them, and teaching them, he promises to be with us ALWAYS!

 

We can do all things, for His Kingdom and glory, through Him who gives us strength. (Philippians 4:13) His power and His authority go with us when we step out in faith for His Kingdom's sake.

 

Prayer:

Write down your prayer points in the space provided. Use today’s reading to help you get ideas.

 

Adoration:

 

Confession:

 

Thanks:

 

Supplication:

¥ Praise God that He is the one who grows and nourishes faith in Him in our hearts. Pray that He would continue to grow you in faith in Him and overcome any doubts you may have. Pray that God would grow that same faith in the hearts of those who don’t know Him. Pray that God would give you opportunities to share your faith with others today.

¥ Pray for the children in your church. Pray that God would grow them in faith and love for Him and that they might grow up to serve Him with their lives. Pray that God would give wisdom to those people who teach and lead the children in your church.

 

My Additional Prayer Points.

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2/.

 

 

Discussion Questions For Families and Groups

1. Share with your group what some of your doubts or fears about the call of the Christian life. Be as open as honest as you are comfortable. Take some time to pray one another to encourage one another in these areas.

2. Discuss some of the areas of life that would change if we took seriously the authority of Jesus Christ. Do we need to change in these areas? What are some steps we can take to change in these areas?