The Same Power

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

Day 1: From Death to Life
Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
Devotional: Today's passage reminds us of the transformative power of God's grace. We were once dead in our sins, following the ways of the world. But God, in His great love and mercy, made us alive with Christ. This miraculous transition from spiritual death to life is not something we can achieve on our own—it is purely a gift from God.

Reflect on your own journey from spiritual death to life. How has God's grace changed you? In what ways do you still see the "old self" trying to resurface? Remember that the same power that raised Christ from the dead is at work in you, empowering you to live a new life. Today, consciously choose to "put off your old self" and embrace the new creation God has made you to be in Christ.

Day 2: The Power of Obedience
Reading: Romans 6:1-14
Devotional: As followers of Christ, we are called to a life of obedience. Today's passage teaches us that through our union with Christ in His death and resurrection, we have been set free from the power of sin. This freedom, however, is not a license to continue in sin, but an opportunity to live in obedience to God.

Consider areas in your life where you struggle with obedience. What sins or habits do you find difficult to overcome? Remember that you have been given the power to obey through the Holy Spirit. Today, make a conscious decision to present yourself to God as an instrument of righteousness. Ask Him to help you identify one specific area where you can demonstrate obedience, and take a practical step towards that goal.

Day 3: Abiding in Christ
Reading: John 15:1-11
Devotional: Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and its branches to illustrate our need to remain connected to Him. Just as a branch cannot bear fruit unless it remains attached to the vine, we cannot produce spiritual fruit in our lives unless we abide in Christ. This abiding is not a passive state, but an active, ongoing relationship with Jesus.

How are you currently "abiding" in Christ? Are you regularly spending time in prayer, studying His Word, and seeking His presence? Today, focus on strengthening your connection with Jesus. Set aside dedicated time to be still in His presence, meditate on His Word, and listen for His voice. Remember that apart from Him, you can do nothing of eternal value.

Day 4: The Fruit of the Spirit
Reading: Galatians 5:16-26
Devotional: As we abide in Christ and walk by the Spirit, our lives begin to produce spiritual fruit. This fruit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—is evidence of God's work in our lives. It's not something we can manufacture on our own, but rather the natural result of staying connected to the true Vine.

Examine your life for evidence of the fruit of the Spirit. Which aspects of the fruit do you see growing? Which areas need more development? Ask God to cultivate His fruit in your life, particularly in areas where you struggle. Today, choose one aspect of the fruit and intentionally look for opportunities to express it in your interactions with others.

Day 5: Living in the Power of the Resurrection
Reading: Ephesians 1:15-23
Devotional: Paul's prayer for the Ephesians reveals the incredible power available to believers—the same power that raised Christ from the dead. This resurrection power is not just a historical fact, but a present reality for every Christian. It's the power that gives us new life, enables us to overcome sin, and empowers us to live for God's glory.

How are you experiencing the power of the resurrection in your daily life? Are there areas where you feel powerless or defeated? Today, claim the promise of God's resurrection power in your life. Pray for a fresh awareness of this power, and ask God to show you how to apply it to your current challenges and opportunities. Remember that in Christ, you have access to immeasurable power to live a life that honors God and impacts others for His kingdom.