Blessed: Part 1

7/27/2019 Blessed: Part 1

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FBC Newton Fall2013

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Blessed

Are...


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POOR IN SPIRIT: DAY 1

Memory Verse:

Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that Godwould show you what it looks like to live in humility today.

Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom ofHeaven.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:3

Daily Scripture:James 2

In what ways do we descrimitate between people, other thanrich vs. poor?

How does descriminating between people demonstrate a lack ofhumility?

How does descrimination keep us from loving our neighbor asourself?

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Whether we would ever say it verbally, we are constantlyjudging and comparing ourselves to others, whether its interms of physical attractivness, smarts, clothing or speech. In

general we look up to some and look down on others? When welook down on others, what we are really saying is that we arebetter than they are. God has uniquely created each person,and loves them as well. If we are going to love others as Godhas called us to. We must learn to stop looking down on othersand see them as beautiful people who God created and loved.

Talk to God:

Spend some time coming clean to God about times when youhave looked down on others. Ask Him to allow you to recognizewhen pride is leading you to look down others. Ask Him to giveyou eyes to see people and love people in the way that Hedoes.

Daily Task:

Go grab the largest value coin you have. Put it in your pocketor sock. Each time Gods Spirit calls you out today for lookingdown on someone in thought or speech, touch the coin toremind yourself of the value and worth that God sees in eachperson and mentally confess your sin to God immediately.

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Memory Verse:Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speakto you through His Word.


Daily Scripture: Read Mark 10:35-45

In what ways did Jesus serve while He was on Earth?

Why do you think Jesus lived the life of a servant?

How does serving others demonstrate humility?

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Pride is puffing ourselves up and looking down on others.Humility is viewing ourselves through Gods eyes, and thenputting others before ourselves. Jesus is the ultimate example

of humility. He is the King of Kings and the Son of God, yet Hecame to serve and give His life so that others would know thelove of His Father.

As we serve others, we shine the light of Christ. We show thatwe are different. We show that we love others. We follow inthe footsteps of Christ. A heart of humility is a heart thatlooks to serve others. No task is beneath someone with a

humble heart.

Talk With God:

Spend time with God and ask Him to show you ways to serveothers today. Be specific. Ask Him to show you how to serveyour family, a friend, a coach, a teacher. Ask that He give you

a servants heart and that He would use your acts of service topoint others toward Christ.

Daily Task:

Put something on opposite today. Wear a sock inside-out. Putyour wallet or phone in the opposite pocket that you normallydo. Put a watch on upside down. Put your belt on the opposite

way. Every time that you notice the difference today, look todo the opposite of what the world does. Look for a way toserve someone. In simple little acts, look for a way to be aservant.

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Memory Verse:

Take time to memorize the verse today. Dontmove on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly.


Daily Scripture:James 4

Why do you think God is so harsh with those making plans?

How does God suggest these men change their mindset?

How do we plan for our furture without being prideful?

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These men receive a harsh rebuke for something that seemsrelatively innocent. They are simply making plans. We all make

plans. Notice how God changed their sentance. He simply addedif it is the Lords will. Its only a few words, but the impact ishuge. God is control, and we are not. We must learn to act likeit and think like it. We may have plans but we must learn toplace Gods plans above our own and be willing to exchange ourplans for His.

Talk With God:

Tell God your plan for the day...then tell Him you want Hisplan. Pray for the wisdom to know how God would desire you toact today. Pray for the willingness to exchange Gods plans foryour own.

Daily Task:Take a screenshot or picture of a map and make it your homescreen on your phone or computer for the day. Everytime yousee it today let it remind you that God writes the map and planfor your life. Let Him be in charge of your every decision today.

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Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: Isaiah 40

How does Isaiah describe man?

How does Isaiah describe God?

Why is it good to realize how BIG God is and how small weare?

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God is big and we are not. God is in charge and we are not. But,that is a wonderful thing. When we learn that God is incontrol, we can rest in Him. We can trust Him. We can learn to

rely on His strength. Pride is depending on ourselves. Beingpoor in spirit is depending on God, and when we depend on Godwe experience the Kingdom of God!

Talk to God:

Beging by telling God your weaknesses. Then thank Him for hisstrengths and power. Ask for Gods power to take the place of

your weakness today and for Him to work in and through you.

Daily Task:

Give up something today that you are dependent on. Give upyour phone, social networks, caffine, sugar, television... Eachtime you think of what you have given up for the day,

remember that God desires for us to be dependent on Him,constantly turning to Him for help and power. Take a moment topray asking God for the power to be obedient to Him inwhatever situation you find yourself in the moment.

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THOSE WHO MOURN: DAY 1

Memory Verse:

Slowly read through this verse 10 times, thenpray that God would reveal your sins against Him today.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:4Daily Scripture: Psalm 51

What does David ask God to do for Him?

When is the last time you cried out to God with such emotion?

What keeps you for mourning like David over your sin?

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We all sin. Many times we ask for forgiveness. But most of usdo not mourn over our sin like David. The truth is sin is a hugedeal, no matter how common place it seems to us. Sin is an

offense to a Holy God. Sin sent Jesus to the cross. God takessin seriously, and we must learn to see sin as God sees it.

Talk to God:

Start your time with God by confessing your sins. Confessspecifically, not just general sins. After a time of confession,thank God for His forgivenss and pray for His strength to live a

life of obedience to His commands.

Daily Task:

Tissues are for mourning. Today take a tissue or hankercheifwith you whereever you go. As you notice the tissue today, takea moment to examing your thoughts, attitudes and actions. Take

a moment to confess for the ways that you have not lived upto Gods standard, and thank Him for His forgivness.

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Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:4Daily Scripture: Luke 19: 28-44

What happened when Jesus entered Jerusalem?

Why do you think Jesus wept over Jerusalem?

What did Jesus seem to indicate would happen to Jerusalem?

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Jesus entered Jerusalem a week before He was to be murderedand was met with a combination of praise and insult. As Heentered Jerusalm He began to weep for the city that would

reject Him a week later. Even though they had been warned bythe prophets they would reject Him and suffer punishment. Wemust weep for our own sin, but just like Jesus, we must alsoweep for those in our life who have not accepted Jesus. Theymay have heard, they may have not. But, without Jesus theirlives will be consumed by sin and they will ultimately face theconsequences of that sin.

Talk With God:

Lift up your family and friends who you know are not livingobediently to God. Mourn over their sins. Ask God to resucethem. Ask Him to use you to bring them to salvation.

Daily Task:

Take a moment to disorganize something you normally haveorganized. Change the order of stuff in your wallet. Changewhere you put stuff in your bookbag. Move the apps on yourphone. Jesus said that because of their sin, Jerusalem wouldface destruction and one stone would not be left of top ofanother. The sin in our families and friends life will tear or is

tearing their life apart as well. As you keep seeing yourdisorganization, let it remind you of the mess in your friends orfamilies life and take a moment to pray for them and theirsalvation.

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Memory Verse:Take time to memorize the verse today. Dontmove on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly.

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:4Daily Scripture: Isaiah 53

In what ways did Christ have to suffer?

Why was it necessary for Him to suffer in this way?

How does Christs suffering bring us comfort?

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Sin is serious and has serious consequences. Jesus suffered forour sin. We must mourn our sin. But, the promise that Jesusgives us is that we will receive comfort after we have mourned

for our sin.

Talk With God:

Thank God for His sacrifice. Thank God for His forgiveness.Praise Jesus!!

Daily Task:

Go get a bandaid and put it on. As you go about your day, bereminded of the way that Jesus suffered for your sin. As Godreveals sin in your life today: confess it, mourn it and thankJesus that you are forgiven!!

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Memory Verse:Write the verse here...

Daily Scripture: 1 John 1

What promises does God make to you in these verses?

When was the last time someone forgave you? How did it feel?

For what do you need forgiveness?

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What an incredible promise. If we confess our sins, He willpurify us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness. There isnothing better than being clean, forgiven and guilt-free. Even

though we know God can forgive our sins, many times we donttake the time to confess them. Be comforted today. When youconfess your sins, God forgives you and cleanses you.

Talk to God:

Take time to confess your sins and thank God for the fact thatyou are forgiven!

Daily Task:

As you go about your day, look for simple ways to clean. Wipeaway the pencil mark from your desk. Throw away the papertowel on the sink in the bathroom. Pick up the gum wrapper inthe hall. As you clean through simple acts today, be reminded

that God is constantly and consistenly cleaning and purifyingus. Dont miss our on the comfort that God offers today.Confess your sins to Him as He points them out.

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THE MEEK: DAY 1

Memory Verse:

Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that Godwould speak to you today.

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:5Daily Scripture: Genesis 13:1-12

What problem arose between Abraham and Lot?

Abraham was older, but who took the best land?

How does someone demonstrate that they are gentle?

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Abraham had the right and the strength to take the best ofthe land for himself. Instead, he chose not to use his power

and strength but allow Lot to take the best of the land.Abraham demonstrated great meekness and gentleness.

One of the chief characteristics of meekness is that we choosenot to use our strength and power for our own gain. Insteadwe put others before ourselves.

Talk to God:

Thank God for showing gentleness towards you by allowingJesus to take the punishment that you deserved. Ask Jesus toshow you opportunities to be gentle to others today by placingthem before yourself.

Daily Task:

Go grab a battery to carry with you today. A battery haspower and energy, but it is meant to be used on somethingelse. The battery doesnt control how it is used. It is obedientto be used in whatever way needed. As you keep the batterytoday, ask God to show you ways to demonstrate meekness byusing your power or strength for the good of someone else.

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THE MEEK: DAY 2



! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:5Daily Scripture: 1 Samuel 24

Why did David choose not to attack Saul?

Why would this have been a difficult choice?

Is your first reaction to injure those who attack you or toforgive?

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David demonstrates meekness in an incredible way by notattacking a man who is out to kill him. David has the

opportunity and the means, and yet he chooses to remaingentle. People may not be out to kill you. But, you will beinsulted and mocked. People will gossip about you. You will alsohave the opportunity to get back at those who have hurt you.Our natural reaction is to hurt those who hurt us. Gods way isto respond with love allowing Him to handle the situation.

Talk With God:

Tell God about someone who has hurt you. Pray for them. Askfor God to show you a way to mend the relationship that hasbeen broken.

Daily Task:

Put a rubberband around your wrist. A rubber band streches toaccomodate whatever it is put around. It is flexible. As youwear the rubberband today, remember to be flexible as well.When someone hurts you or insults you, ask God to help youstretch and handle the insult without responding in anger.Choose to be flexible and gentle today. Stretch instead ofbreaking.

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THE MEEK: DAY 3

Memory Verse:Take time to memorize the verse today. Dontmove on until you can say the verse completely and perfectly.


! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:5Daily Scripture: Philippians 2:1-18

In what ways did Christ demonstrate gentleness?

Who do you need to make an effort to be gentle to today?

What will it look like for you to be gentle?

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Jesus is the ultimate example of meekness. He has all powerand authority, yet He made himself nothing in order to beobedient to His Father and demonstrate His love to the world.

In the same way, We must choose to be gentle both becauseits commanded by our Father but also because its anopportunity to show someone else the unconditional love of theFather.

Talk With God:

Tell God about the people you struggle being gentle with. Prayfor them. Thank God for being gentle with you, and ask Him toteach you to be gentle with others as well.

Daily Task:

Today, leave behind things you normally take with you. Leave

jewelry, a snack, your chewing gum. As you are reminded aboutwhat you have left behind during the day, remember all thatJesus left behind to demonstrate His love for you. Thank Himfor His gentleness and look for ways to show gentleness toothers.

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THE MEEK: DAY 4

Memory Verse:Write the verse here...

Daily Scripture:Jerimiah 9:22-24

What things do you tend to boast in the most?

Why is God worthy of boasting?

How does being gentle relate to boasting?

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We love success. We love victory. We love when we come out ontop. Who doesnt? Those who are gentle and meek not onlysubmit their strength to God, but they also recognize that

their successes are actually gifts from God. When we achievevictories, we must learn not to praise our own accomplishmentsbut to recognize that these successes are gifts from God andwe need to point the glory back to Him.

Talk To God:

What has God given you or done for you that you have taken

credit for. Take a moment to praise God for the ways that Hehas worked in your life so far. Ask Him to allow your gifts,talents and successes to point the glory back to Him.

Daily Task:

Take a piece of paper and write Christ on it two times. Smear

the lead on one of the words, so that the image is distortedslightly. Then place the paper in a place where you will see itseveral times throughout the day. The reason we are to livegentle and meek lives is to point others to a God who is gentlewith us. When we are gentle in our good times and bad, wepresent a clear picture of Christ. When we are arrogant invictories or respond in anger to insults, we smear the image of

Christ that we are trying to present. Let the two words remindyou to represent Christ well by being meek today in both yoursuccesses and difficulties.

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HUNGER AND THIRST FOR

RIGHTOUSNESS: DAY 1

Memory Verse:

Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that Godwould speak to you today.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for

they will be filled.

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:6Daily Scripture: Colossians 3:1-17

Which of the negative thoughts that Paul lists causes the moststruggle for you?

Which of the positive thoughts that Paul lists would you like tobe apparent in your thought life?

What do you think it will take for your thought-life to becomemore righteous?

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Its easy to point out obvious, blatant sin in other peoples lives.But, most of us would be horrified if others could see thethoughts that swirl through our mind. God calls us not only to

be clean on the outside but also clean on the inside. Thishappens through prayer, confession, Gods Word, and dependingon Christ. But is holiness something you pursue, something youthirst after? Its what God is calling you to?

Talk to God:

Tell God your thoughts, the ugly ones you would never say out

loud. Share with him where you struggle in your thought life.Confess it. Ask Him to continue to teach you how to have a mindthat thinkgs like Christ.

Daily Task:

Take along your favorite snack today, but dont touch it until

you are getting ready to go to bed tonight. As you crave thetreat throughout the day, be reminded that we are to have thesame longing desire for righteousness. Righteous thoughts dontjust happen, we hunger for them, and Christ fills us.

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HUNGER AND THIRST FOR

RIGHTEOUSNESS: DAY 2

Memory Verse:

Rewrite the verse, and then ask God to speak to you throughHis Word.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, forthey will be filled.

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:6Daily Scripture: Ephesians 4:1-24

What circumstances tend to give you a negative attitude?

Who is affected by your negative attitudes? How?

What do you think it means to be righteous in terms of yourattitudes?

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I love team sports, but only if the team works well together.There is nothing worse than being on a team that cant getalong. The same is true in our families. One bad attitude can

affect everyone. The body of Christ is both a family and ateam, and our attitudes are important because if affects peoplein Gods family.

In addition, our attitudes reflect whats going on in our heart.When a non-believer consistenly notices a negative attitudecoming from a Christians life, it can cause them to have anegative taste towards Christ. The passage isnt saying we

should be happy all the time, but it does teach us that ourattitudes should be ones that help the church grow and builditself up in love.

Talk With God:

Tell God about when you struggle with a negative attitude,where you are, and who you are with. Ask God to show youtoday when your attitude is not honoring to Him.

Daily Task:

Go find a picture or poster in your room and move it so that itis crooked. When something is obviously off the mark, it sticks

out. The same can be true of our attitudes. Often people dontnotice our good attitudes, sadly they quickly recognzie negativeones. Make a habit of confessing negative attitudes as soon asyou notice them today, before someone else does, and see ifanyone else notices the crooked picture in your room.

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HUNGER AND THRIST FOR

RIGHTOUSNESS: DAY 3

Memory Verse:

Take time to memorize the verse today. Dont move on until youcan say the verse completely and perfectly.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, forthey will be filled.

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:6Daily Scripture: Matthew 25:31-46

What are some needs that Jesus addresses?

Who is someone in your life who shares a similar need?

How could God make a difference in their lives through you?

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Righteousness starts in our thoughts, expands to our attitudesbut ultimately shows itself in our actions. The Bible consistentlyspeaks of God caring for the poor, the stranger, and the sick.

If those are the things a righteous God cares about, shouldntour righteousness lead us in the same direction.

We are surrounded by people with needs. Whether we seethem or not is a different story. We must hunger foropportunities to show love to those in need, and when we seethose oppotunities, we must act.

Talk With God:

Ask God to show you someone in need today, whether in yourschool or a need across the world. Ask God to show you howyou can be a part of showing tangible love to others.

Daily Task:

Tie a ribbon or string around your wrist today. Your life is agift from God, but He has an expectation for how you shoulduse that gift. As you see the ribbon today and are remindedthat you are a gift, ask God to show you how to use your lifeto make a difference for someone else.

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HUNGER AND THRIST FOR

RIGHTOUSNESS: DAY 4

Memory Verse:

Write the verse here...

Daily Scripture:John 15:1-17

According to the verses, what are somethings that God does?

What promises does He make?

What does it mean for you to remain in Christ?

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Jesus chose you, appointed you and is pruning you to befruitful. Jesus calls us to hunger and thirst for righteousness,but He also promises that when we thirst in this way we willbe filled. What a promise!! But, heres the key...remaining inChrist. Righteousness comes from Christ, and as we keep closeto Him and say YES to Him He produces an incredible change inour lives.

Talk To God:

Beg God to work in your life. Whavever you need Him tochange, whatever you want Him to do in your life, ask Him.Hunger and Thrist to be more like Jesus everyday. Thank Himfor the work He has already done.

Daily Task:

Set a picture of a grapevine as your phone background. As yousee it today, be reminded of the work God has done in yourlife, is doing right now, and will do in the future. What a greatGod!! Thank Him!!!

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THE MERCIFUL: DAY 1

Memory Verse:

Slowly read through this verse 10 times, then pray that Godwould show you what it looks like to live in humility today.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:7Daily Scripture: Psalm 103

What are some examples of Gods mercy found in this psalm?

Which of these examples is most wonderful to you? Why?

How should we respond to this great mercy?

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Mercy. Its love, healing and compassion that isnt deserved. Goddemonstrated His love for us in that while we were still sinnersChrist died for us. Gods mercy covers our every sin, wipes us

clean, removes our guilt, and will bring us to His throne inheaven. Gods mercy is great and we must praise Him for it.

Talk to God:

Think of all the ways God has been merciful. List them out.Thank God for each of them and thank God for His continualmercy.

Daily Task:

Download 10,000 Reasons by Matt Redmond. Listen to thesong throughout the day. Praise God for His incredible mercy.

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THE MERCIFUL: DAY 2

Memory Verse:Rewrite the verse, and then ask God tospeak to you through His Word.

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:7Daily Scripture: Matthew 18:21-35

How has God shown mercy to you?

Who is someone you struggle showing mercy?

What would it look like for you to demonstrate mercy to them?

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We may not have a great memory. But, all of us can rememberpeople who have hurt us. We can remember how they did it,and for some people we could write a list. Our limits are

different but we all have a point at which we refuse to offerforgiveness. Arent you glad God isnt like that. We have sinnedagainst Gon a thousand times more than anyone has eversinned against us, and yet He still offers forgiveness. We mustdo the same.

Talk With God:

Who do you need to forgive and demonstrate mercy? Tell Godabout it. Ask Him to show you and opportunity to mend thisrelationship.

Daily Task:

Write down everything you have spent this week. Every time

you spend any amount of money today, write it down. We keeprecords of money and we keep records of those who have hurtus. Be grateful that Gods mercy wipes out the debt you owehim. As you write down your spending, remember Gods mercyand look to extend that mercy to others.

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THE MERCIFUL: DAY 3

Memory Verse:


Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:7Daily Scripture: Luke 10:25-37

What does mercy look like in this story?

Who are the wounded people in your life?

What does it look like to be a Good Samaritan to the woundedtoday?

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God extends mercy to people who have sinned against him.Believers extend mercy to those who have sinned against them,

but it doesnt end there. God shows mercy to everyone. Thereare people in this world who havent hurt us, but instead theyare hurting. Not all wounds are physical or easy to see, butthey are still there. Our mercy needs to extend to all in need.

Talk With God:

Ask God to open your eyes today to see someone who iswounded. Ask God to show you how to meet that need in loveand demonstrate mercy.

Daily Task:

Get some chapstick to take with you today. Chapstick heals lips,but it needs to be applied more than once. The Good Samaritansmercy didnt stop at putting medicing on his wounds, itcontinued on until the man healed. Our mercy isnt a one timedeal. As you use the chapstick today, be reminded of Godscontinuing mercy in your life, and look for ways to show thatmercy to others.

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THE MERCIFUL: DAY 4

Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: Lamentations 3:1-24

When have you ever felt like the writer of this passage?

At what point does the tone change? Why?

What does it mean to wait for the Lord?

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Our life following Christ isnt easy. There will be hard timeswhere we feel like we are being crushed and God is silent. But,we have hope. God has promised that we will receive mercy,

and God Does Not Lie. Even when we cant feel it, Gods mercy isstill there, new every morning.

Talk to God:

Tell God about when you struggle to have faith. Tell Him whenHe feels distant. Thank Him for his promise of mercy andforgivness. Rest in it.

Daily Task:

Whats one thing you do when you are waiting for something tomake the time go by faster. Is there a game you play? Do youdraw? Listen to music? Whatever it is, as you do that activitytoday, be reminded that you are waiting on God. You are

waiting on God to bring a complete end to death, sin, and pain.He is going to bring an end to it, and waiting isnt near as hardwhen we keep His sure promise in mind. Gods mercy is apromise, rest in that promise today!

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PURE IN HEART: DAY 1

Memory Verse:

Slowly read through this verse 10 times, thenpray that God would show you what it looks like to live inhumility today.

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:7Daily Scripture:Judges 6:1-24

How was Gideon brutally honest with God?

Gideon doubted Gods presence? When have you doubted Godspresence?

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Gideon doubted his ability? When have you shared thisstruggle?

To be pure in heart is to be completely sincere and honest. Thatstarts in our relationship with God. God knows our everythought or motive, and yet theres some things we wont tellHim as if he doesnt already know. Gideon lays it all out. Hisdoubts about God and his doubts about Himself. Guess what?God uses Him anyway. Having a pure heart starts with beingopen and honest with God.

Talk with God:

Like Gideon, share your doubts, fears and struggles with God.He knows them anyway. Thank God that His is a God who is big

enought to work through our weaknesses.

Daily Task:

Go get a playing card to carry with you today. There is asaying that you must call a spade a spade. Basically, you saywhat is true. We must learn to talk to God in that way. As you

see the card today, remember to be bruttaly gut wrenchinghonest with God today. Even if its not pretty let God knowwhats going on in your heart and mind. He can handle it.

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Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:8Daily Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8-18

What are some commands that James gives gives us?

What does he warn might be the result?

What keeps you from being open and honest with people?

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Being pure in heart means being open and honest with God, butit also means being honest with others. Peter tells us to speaktruth and seek to do good towards others. He also warns that

living in this way will not always bring a good response.

We must be honest with one another, our yes meaning yes, andour no meaning no. We must be honest about our faith, beingprepared to give an answer. We must be open about ourstruggles and fears so we can build one another up.

Talk With God:

Ask God to show you what it looks like to be pure and honestin your relationships with others today. Pray he would give youthe chance to share what He is doing in your life.

Daily Task:

There is nothing more pure than water. Make an effort to drinkonly water today. As you drink it be reminded that in the sameway you can see through water, God wants your life to be opento others so that they can see what God is doing in You.

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Memory Verse:


Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:8Daily Scripture: Psalm 51

How is David honest with God?

What does David desire?

How does David say he will respond to Gods mercy?

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David is honest with God about His sin and begs to be clean.But, he doesnt end there. He also promises to tell others aboutall that God has done for Him. But, notice where purity of

heart comes from. It comes from God.

God desires for us to have a pure heart and pure motives, andHe desires that we be honest in our relationship with Him andwith others. Purity is found in a relationship with Christ.

Talk With God:

As youre honest with God about impure motives and struggles,He can begin to do a work in your life. Ask God to change yourheart and to sustain you with a willing spirit.

Daily Task:

Outward cleanliness is a continual procees. A shower is not a

one time thing that leaves you forever clean, it needs to berepeated. Our relationship with Christ is similar. While his bloodcovers our sins once and for all, there is still the need forcontinual confession and repentance.

As you go through you cleaning rituals today: showering,washing hands, ect, remember that God desires purity on theinside is well. Hes the one that brings inward cleanliness, so ask

Him to do so.

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Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: Isaiah 6:1-8

What was Isaiahs response when He saw God?

Have you ever had a similar moment?

What do you think it takes to see and experience God?

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Isaiah sees God. What an incredible experience. Jesus tells usthat those with pure hearts will see God at work. When Isaiahsaw God at work, something incredible happened. He wanted to

join Him. Here am I; send me.

As we come before God in purity, we will see Him and Hisbeauty. As we see Him and His beauty, He invites us to join Himin his work. What an incredible priveledge and honor!!

Talk to God:

Ask God to give you purity of heart and for Him to allow youto see Him through the scriptures today, in your life, andworking in the lives of others. Ask God to show you how youcan join Him at work today.

Daily Task:

Heres your job today. Count the number of times someone tellsyou to look at something. People are always trying to get ourattention. They want to show us a video, a picture, a mathproblem. God wants to show you something to. He shows Himselfto those with pure hearts. Ask God to give you a pure heartand allow you to see Him and join Him at work today.

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PEACEMAKERS: DAY 1

Memory Verse:

Slowly read through this verse 10 times,then pray that God would show you what it looks like to live inhumility today.

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons ofGod.

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:9Daily Scripture: Isaiah 9:1-7

What would be some of the ways that this person would bringpeace?

This passage points to Jesus. What does it mean that its peacewill never end?

When is a time you have felt Gods peace in your own life?

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God is a god of peace. His son is called the Prince of Peace. Hecame to fix what sin had broken. Jesus restores our relationshipwith God, he takes our brokeness and makes us whole. Jesus is

all about peace and bringing wholeness to a broken world.

Talk with God:

Spend some times thanking God for bringing about peace inyour own life. Thank Him for His grace. Thank Him for the wayshe has fixed what was broken in your life, and bring the thingsthat are still broken to Him asking Him to bring peace and

wholeness in those areas as well.

Daily Task:

Whenever you eat anything today, break it first. Poptart forbreakfast? Break it. Sandwich for lunch? Tear it in half. Oncethings are broken, its often impossible to bring it back to

wholeness. The same is true of our life, but God has done theimpossible by healing our brokeness through the cross. As youbreak your food today, remember that God specializes in fixingbroken things.

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PEACEMAKERS: DAY 2


Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons ofGod.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:9

Daily Scripture: Hebrews 12:1-14

What do you think it means that Gods disciple will procuce aharvest of peace in your life?

God promises us peace, but then gives us a command in vs. 14.What is it?

How does verse 14 relate to the promise of Matthew 5:9?

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As we are disciplined by God and strive to lead holy lives, wedistance ourselves from sin. As we distance ourselves from sin,

we distance ourselves from much of the pain and hurt that sinbrings. We experience peace. For example, as we distanceourself from the sin of lying, we are free from the anxiety ofbeing caught and have peace that we dont need to cover ourtracks. But, peace with God doesnt end there, God calls us toextend that peace to others.

Talk With God:

Tell God about the anxieties you experience as a result of sin.Confess those sins to God and repent. Pursue Godsrighteousness and pray for His peace and presence in your lifetoday.

Daily Task:Write this weeks memory verse down somewhere where youwill see it several times today. Be reminded of the peace Godhas promised you and the peace He intends for you to have inyour relationships with others.

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PEACEMAKERS: DAY 3

Memory Verse:


Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons ofGod! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:9

Daily Scripture: Romans 12

Which of the beattitudes do you see played out in theseverses?

How does the writer follow the command to live in peace witheveryone?

What does it take to live at peace with others?

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We see several beattitudes in this passage. The call to be poorin spirit as well as pure in heart. The command to be mercifuland to hunger and thirst for righteousness. But, all theseattitudes reveal themselves in the way we treat each other. Weare to be peacemakers. As far as it depends on you, live atpeace with others. This includes people who dont like you.Peace may not come, but you are to do your part and pursue it.

Talk With God:

Tell God about the people in your life with whom you struggleto live in peace. Pray for them. Ask God to show you how topursue peace in those relationships today.

Daily Task:

Have a monopoly set? Put a piece of monopoly money in yourpocket. If not, put a die or other game piece in your pockettoday. Monopoly often seems like a never ending game. It canseriously go on forever. Thats how pursuing peace can feelsometimes. We pursue it, they dont accept it, we snap, andrepeat the process. Today be reminded the pursuing peace

takes persistance. Pursue peace today even when its difficultand you dont see it going anywhere.

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PEACEMAKERS: DAY 4

Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: Ephesians 2

What do you think it means to be fellow citizens in Godskingdom?

The church is called the family of God. How should we livewith one another based on that description?

What is an example of peace in your church? What is anexample of division?

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Jesus came to make peace between God and man. God intendsfor their to be peace between people as well. The place wherethis should be most evident is the church. God expects there

for their to be love and unity in the church as a picture to theworld of what He is like. How do you think we are doing?

Talk to God:

Take time today to pray for the church. Pray for leaders in thechurch. Pray for your friends. Pray for those who are on theoutskirts. Pray that God would bring unity and peace to the

church and use it to make a difference for Him.

Daily Task:

Set a family picture as your background. As you see yourfamily today, pray for peace in your family, and pray that Godwould continue to work in the life of your church, making it like

a loving family.

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THE PERSECUTED: DAY 1

Memory Verse:

Slowly read through this verse 10 times,then pray that God would show you what it looks like to live inhumility today.

Blessed are those who are persecuted because ofrighteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:10Daily Scripture:John 15:18-27

Why does Jesus say we will experience persecution?

In what ways are Gods ways different from the worlds ways?

Have you ever faced persecution for doing something right?

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The prophets were perseucted, Jesus was murdered, thedisciples were harrassed. What you you think is coming our

way. The truth is the way God has called us to live is radicallydifferent from the way everyone else lives. If we follow Jesus,we will make people uncomfortable and even angry. Dont bedefeated by this fact. Rest in the fact that youre in goodcompany!!

Talk with God:

Tell God about when you struggle to be different from theworld and tend to blend in, instead of standing up for Godsway. Tell Him about the persecution that you fear. Ask God togive you the strength to be faithful to Him today, no matterwhat consequences you may face.

Daily Task:As you go about the day. Practice saying the verses that youhave memorized so far. As you practice them, remember thatGod has called you to live differently from everyone else.

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Blessed are those who are persecuted because ofrighteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:10

Daily Scripture: Acts 5:12-42

What did the disciples face as a result of following Jesus?

What was their response to persecution?

Why do you think they were able to respond in this way?

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What God is calling you to can feel like an impossible task. Itis...Good thing God specializes in the impossible. A few days

after Jesus died, all of these men were huddled in a lockedroom, scared to death. God gave them his Spirit, and it changedeverything. That same Spirit and Strength lives in you today!!

Talk With God:

Thank God for the examples of spiritual strength He has placed

in your life. Thank Him for giving you His Spirit. Commit torelying on His strenght as you live in obedience to Him today.

Daily Task:

Begin to memorize verses 11-12. Not how the disciples lived outJesus command to rejoice in the midst of suffering.

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Memory Verse:


Blessed are those who are persecuted because ofrighteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.! ! ! ! ! ! Matthew 5:10

Daily Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8-18

What examples of the beattitudes do you see in this passage?

How does Peter instruct us to respond to persecution?

What is your defense? What is the reason you have hope?

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Again, Peter writes that those who live our Jesus commandswill face persecution. But, he adds something else. Often times,facing persecution provides an opportunity to share your faith.

People want to know why you have hope when on the outside itappears like you are suffering. When we face persecution, wemust look for opportunities God may be giving us to shareabout Him.

Talk With God:

Ask God to give you the stength to be obedient to Him today.

Ask Him to show you when He is giving you an oppotunity toshare His love with someone today.

Daily Task:

HOPE. What a great word!! Write it somewhere you will seetoday. On your mirror, in your car, on your hand. Through the

ups and downs today, remember God is our hope and He neverlets us go.

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Memory Verse:

Daily Scripture: 2 Timothy 3

What warning does Paul give Timothy? Have you found this tobe true?

What challenge does Paul leave Timothy with?

What does it mean for you to continue in what you havelearned?

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Paul is blunt. It will sometimes be difficult to follow Christ.Persist. Keep Up. Don give in. It is worth it. No matter how hard

it gets, no matter how weak you feel. A life lived for God is thegreatist thing in the world. Hopefully, God has challenged youand grown you over the past 8 weeks. Continue in what youhave learned.

Talk to God:

Thank God for what He has been doing in your life. Ask Him tocontinue to shape you into the image of Christ and use you forHis Kingdom.

Daily Task:

Share the verses you have memorized with someone today.Share with them what God has taught you through thesebeattitudes. It can be someone who has gone through thestudy with you, a family member, a friend. Just be willing toshare what God has done and is doing in your life.

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Blessed: Part 1

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