12 January 2026: Surrendering to the Shepherd's Search
Reading: Psalm 139:23-24; Ephesians 1:1-3
The psalmist's prayer—"Search me, O God, and know my heart"—invites divine examination of our innermost being. Like a toddler caught with their hand in the cookie jar, we face a choice when the Holy Spirit convicts us: humble confession or defensive resistance. God's searching isn't meant to condemn but to draw us closer to His heartbeat. When we grant Him complete access to every corner of our lives, He transforms us from the inside out. This week, invite the Holy Spirit to illuminate areas in your life and in the world around you that need His touch. Wherever God leads you is the best place for you, because His plans are always for your flourishing, never your harm.
Reflection Question: What area of your life have you been reluctant to surrender to God's searching light?
13 January 2026: Called, Chosen, and Set Apart
Reading: Acts 9:1-19; Ephesians 1:1-2
Paul's radical transformation from persecutor to preacher demonstrates God's power to completely remake a life. He went from breathing threats against believers to becoming their greatest advocate. This same transformative power is available to you. As a follower of Christ, you are called a "saint"—not because you're perfect, but because you're set apart for God's purposes. You're no longer defined by your past sins or failures. You've been bought with a price and positioned as God's beloved child. Sin has been rendered powerless in your life through Christ's finished work. Today, embrace your new identity: you are set apart from sin and set apart to God.
Reflection Question: How does viewing yourself as a "saint" change your perspective on daily challenges?
14 January 2026: Blessed to Bless
Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-5; Ephesians 1:3
"Blessed be God!" This isn't empty religious language but a heartfelt response to recognizing who God is and what He's done. Paul overflows with gratitude as he contemplates God's kindness—not just what He gives, but who He is. You've been blessed with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. This isn't future-tense; you're seated with Christ right now. You're not waiting for heaven to experience God's goodness—His inheritance is yours today. These blessings include adoption, redemption, forgiveness, wisdom, and the indwelling Holy Spirit. When you grasp the magnitude of what you've received, worship becomes natural. You bless God because He has first blessed you beyond measure.
Reflection Question: What spiritual blessings have you experienced this week that deserve your praise?
15 January 2026: Growing Up in Every Way
Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3; Ephesians 4:15
"Grow up in every way into Him who is the head, into Christ." Spiritual maturity isn't about perfection; it's about progression. Have you arrived yet? None of us have. We're all in process, being transformed from glory to glory. Growing up in Christ means allowing His Spirit to shape your thoughts, attitudes, and actions daily. It means being faithful in the details, holding fast to your faith one day at a time. Consider Jesus—who for the joy set before Him endured the cross. When you fix your eyes on Him, you won't grow weary or lose heart. Don't allow unbelief or fear to keep you from stepping deeper. Take hold of every spiritual blessing. Surrender. Believe. Receive. Trust. Rest.
Reflection Question: In what specific area is God calling you to "grow up" in Christ this year?