5 Day Devotional: Teach Us to Pray (Part 3): Repent to Jesus

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the themes from this past Sunday's sermon.

Day 1: The Power of Repentance
Reading: Psalm 51:1-12
Devotional: David's heartfelt plea for forgiveness in Psalm 51 reminds us of the transformative power of genuine repentance. Like David, we all fall short and need God's mercy. Today, reflect on areas in your life where you may need to turn back to God. Remember, repentance isn't just about feeling sorry; it's about changing your mind and heart towards sin. God's love is so vast that He eagerly awaits our return, ready to cleanse and restore us. As you pray, ask God to create a clean heart within you and renew a right spirit, just as David did. Consider how this renewed spirit might change your actions and attitudes today.

Day 2: Forgiveness and Freedom
Reading: Luke 7:36-50
Devotional: The story of the sinful woman anointing Jesus' feet illustrates the profound connection between forgiveness and love. Jesus teaches that those who are forgiven much, love much. Today, meditate on the depth of God's forgiveness in your life. How has experiencing His grace changed you? Remember, no sin is too great for God's forgiveness. Like the woman in the story, let your gratitude for God's mercy overflow into acts of love and worship. Consider how you might express your thankfulness to God today, and how you can extend that same forgiveness to others who may have wronged you.

Day 3: Who Will Deliver Me From This Body of Death?
Reading: Romans 7:13-25
Devotional: The Apostle Paul describes well the struggle we have in our flesh and in our spirit. It is a battle of two natures within: One nature the seeks to satisfy our worldliness; The other seeks to surrender our worldliness and glorify God. The struggle for sanctification is a daily battle to let go of the world and the fleshly nature and embrace Jesus and the new life He gives us through His Spirit. "Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself serve the law of God with my mind..." As you go throughout your day, seek to have a greater awareness of the desire to glorify God. Take special notice of all of the ways you are drawn back towards the "body of death." At each turn dwell on the power of God and how much greater He is than the sinful draw of the world. How might your behavior, speech, or thoughts change if you were constantly aware of His presence? Let this awareness fill you with peace and guide your interactions with others, freeing us from this body of death.

Day 4: The Journey of Sanctification
Reading: Romans 8:1-17
Devotional: Paul's words in Romans remind us that while we have been saved from the penalty of sin, we are continually being saved from its power through the work of the Holy Spirit. This process of sanctification is a lifelong journey of becoming more like Christ. Reflect on how the Holy Spirit has been working in your life. Where have you seen growth? Where do you still struggle? Remember, there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Instead of being discouraged by your shortcomings, let them drive you closer to God. Today, consciously invite the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and actions, trusting in His power to transform you.

Day 5: The Joy of Salvation
Reading: Luke 15:11-32
Devotional: The parable of the Prodigal Son beautifully illustrates God's boundless love and the joy of restoration. Like the father in the story, God eagerly awaits our return when we stray. He doesn't just forgive; He celebrates our homecoming. Reflect on times when you've experienced the joy of God's forgiveness and restoration. How has this changed your relationship with Him? Today, let the reality of God's unconditional love sink deep into your heart, and allow it to fuel your worship and obedience.