5-Day Devo (Based on 8.31.25 Sermon)

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the August 31, 2025 Sermon.

Day 1: The Power of Forgiveness

Reading: Matthew 18:21-35

Devotional: Jesus' parable of the unforgiving servant powerfully illustrates the importance of forgiveness in our spiritual lives. As we read this passage, we're reminded that forgiveness is not just a suggestion, but a command from Christ himself. Reflect on the immense debt that God has forgiven you through Jesus' sacrifice. How does this impact your willingness to forgive others? Consider a situation where you're struggling to forgive. Ask God to soften your heart and help you see the person who wronged you through His eyes of grace and mercy. Remember, forgiveness is a process that often takes time, but it's also a choice we make daily. As you go through your day, practice extending small acts of grace to others, knowing that this reflects the heart of God towards you.

Day 2: Healing Through Forgiveness

Reading: Psalm 147:1-11

Devotional: Today's passage reminds us that God heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds. Often, our deepest wounds come from others, and the path to healing involves forgiveness. As you meditate on these verses, consider how unforgiveness might be hindering your own healing process. Are you holding onto hurts that God wants to heal? Remember, forgiveness doesn't minimize the pain you've experienced, but it does open the door for God's healing power to work in your life. Take a moment to write down any areas where you need God's healing touch. Pray over each one, asking God to help you release any bitterness and embrace His healing love. As you do this, trust that God is working to restore and renew you, just as He promises in His Word.

Day 3: The Community of Forgiveness

Reading: Colossians 3:12-17

Devotional: Paul's words to the Colossians paint a beautiful picture of what a community marked by forgiveness looks like. As you read, notice how forgiveness is intertwined with other virtues like compassion, kindness, and patience. This reminds us that forgiveness isn't just an individual act, but something that shapes entire communities. Reflect on your own relationships - in your family, church, or workplace. How might practicing forgiveness transform these environments? Consider one specific relationship where you can take a step towards forgiveness today. It might be reaching out to someone you've hurt, or choosing to let go of a grudge you've been holding. As you do this, remember that you're not forgiving in your own strength, but through the power of Christ who dwells in you.

Day 4: Forgiveness in the Face of Injustice

Reading: Romans 12:17-21

Devotional: Today's passage tackles one of the most challenging aspects of forgiveness - how to respond when we've been truly wronged or faced injustice. Paul's words remind us that vengeance belongs to God, not us. This can be a hard truth to swallow, especially when we've been deeply hurt. As you reflect on these verses, consider any situations in your life where you're tempted to seek revenge or harbor bitterness. How might entrusting justice to God change your perspective? Remember, forgiveness doesn't mean excusing wrong behavior or putting yourself in harm's way. Instead, it's about releasing the burden of anger and trusting God to make things right in His time and way. Pray for the strength to "overcome evil with good" in your own life, knowing that this is a powerful testimony to God's transforming grace.

Day 5: The Ultimate Example of Forgiveness

Reading: Luke 23:32-43

Devotional: As we conclude our week, we turn to the ultimate example of forgiveness - Jesus on the cross. In His moment of greatest agony, Jesus extends forgiveness to those who are crucifying Him. This radical act of love sets the standard for our own forgiveness. As you meditate on this passage, allow yourself to be overwhelmed by the depth of God's forgiveness towards you. No matter what you've done, His grace is sufficient. Now, consider how this lavish forgiveness empowers you to forgive others. Is there someone in your life who seems "unforgivable"? Bring that person before God in prayer, asking Him to help you extend the same grace you've received. Remember, forgiveness is a journey, and it's okay if it doesn't happen all at once. The important thing is to keep your heart open to God's work of forgiveness in and through you.
This 5-Day Devotional was generated with the help of AI, and is based off of Pastor Brian's August 31, 2025 Sermon: Called to Forgive.
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