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Renewal Through Routine
The Upper Room Disciplines has been a source of strength and comfort to readers for decades. Read More
Sandra Stogsdill Brown | Read Mark 8:31-38
After becoming the first disciple to declare that Jesus is the Messiah, Peter turns around and rebukes Jesus for saying that he must suffer, be rejected, and be killed. Some interpret this encounter to show that Peter wants Jesus to be a different kind of Messiah—the kind who would get...
Jesus, thank you for the call to lose my life for you and to set my mind on God’s kingdom. Give me courage as I choose to follow you. Amen.
We cannot earn God’s love. Going back to the time of Abraham, God’s blessing has been based on faith. God chose Abraham for a covenant not because Abraham was perfect but because he believed God. The psalmist reminds his audience of their ancient relationship with God and expresses the hope that it will continue through future generations. In Romans, Paul reinforces the centrality of faith. Following the law was not bad, but no one should believe that following the law could earn God’s favor. Some of Jesus’ disciples share with him an experience that mystifies them. Trusting God means surrendering everything in faith.
Read Genesis 17:1-7, 15-16. What is the basis of your relationship with God? How comfortable do you feel in it?
Read Psalm 22:23-31. Where do you find hope in troubling times?
Read Romans 4:13-25. How easily do you live in God’s grace? In what areas do you find yourself “reckoning” your righteousness?
Read Mark 9:2-9. When have you found it difficult to believe in things you may not fully understand? What helps you to trust in God?
Respond by posting a prayer.
