Want to read the Bible more but don't know where to start? Here are some ideas. (1) Keep a Bible in the car. Arrive to work early and read a bit. (2) Get the Bible on audiobook and listen while driving. (3) Start with the Proverb of the day. If it's the 5th of the month, read Proverbs 5. (4) Start in the New Testament: Matthew. Sometimes the Old Testament can discourage new Bible readers.
The four types of friends you should have in your life: (1) Casual friends. People you hang out with and encourage. (2) Community friends. People who encourage you and lead you toward God. (3) Ministry friends. Friends who you want to make a positive impact on. (Be sure they don't make a negative impact on you.) (4) Transparent friends. Those closest to you who can call you out, speak truth in love, and know you 100%. (5) Choose your friends wisely. They will determine your future.
5 Scriptures to Help When You're Feeling Stressed: 1. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. Philippians 4:6 | 2. Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. He will not permit the godly to slip and fall. Psalm 55:22 | 3. “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. - Matthew 11:28 | 4. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. - Joshua 1:9 | 5. Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. - Isaiah 41:10
Communion this Sunday. Here's how to prepare. (1) Understand what it represents. Christ's broken body and spilled blood, sacrificed for our redemption. (2) Examine your heart. Are you holding unforgiveness toward anyone? (3) Confess your sin and thank God for His forgiveness. (4) Receive communion with thanksgiving.
How to share your testimony: (1) Be prepared by writing out your story. (2) Pray for God to give you opportunities to share your story. (3) When sharing your story, don't just focus on your past. Share more on your life after Christ and what He is doing currently. (4) Remember to listen to the person after sharing your story. (5) Leave it in God's hands. We share our story and He does the work.
5 practical tips to help you beat sin. (1) Remember, we live holy lives out of love for God, not fear of punishment. Romans 2:4 (2) Continually ask God to empower you to live a pure life. Psalm 139:23-24 (3) Stay away from tempting locations/scenarios. Romans 13:14 (4) Find friends you can be honest with about your failures. Pray for each other. James 5:16 (5) Memorize God's word. Hide it in your heart. Psalm 119:11
