Romans 2 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the ways God calls us to meet grace with faith.

This series is being taken from a new book by pastor Craig Groeschel, called Heal Your Hurting Mind. You can find it here on Amazon or wherever spiritual books are sold if you'd like to read along for deeper insight.
 
Pause for Reflection:
Why is it significant that it is not the hearers of the law, but the doers, who are justified? What practical way can you apply that to your present circumstances today?

Pray for the Worship Team of Living Faith. Pray that they will be conduits of the peace of God to our congregation during times of worship.

Pray for local foster care services and providers. Pray that the peace of God will surround each child in their care.

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Romans 1 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the ways God calls us to meet grace with faith.

This series is being taken from a new book by pastor Craig Groeschel, called Heal Your Hurting Mind. You can find it here on Amazon or wherever spiritual books are sold if you'd like to read along for deeper insight.
 
Pause for Reflection:
What does it mean that the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith? What is the significance of the phrase "the righteous will live by faith"?

Pray for the Youth Ministry Team of Living Faith. This year, they are focusing on helping our youth grow in confidence of their faith, which includes giving them a lot of room to ask hard questions. Pray for oppportunities for each of our youth leaders to impart those values to the teens of Living Faith.

Pray for Lifeline Youth Ministries. Pray that it will be known as a place of peace in our neighborhood.

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Ephesians 2 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the ways God calls us to meet grace with faith.

This series is being taken from a new book by pastor Craig Groeschel, called Heal Your Hurting Mind. You can find it here on Amazon or wherever spiritual books are sold if you'd like to read along for deeper insight.
 
Pause for Reflection:
How can you express your faith in a way that acknowledges the undeserved grace of God as discussed in Ephesians 2? Reflect on your personal growth as a Christian. How has the understanding of being part of God's household influenced your spiritual journey?

Pray for the Children's Ministry Team of Living Faith. This year, they are focusing on growing in their ability to communicate three key values to our children: worship, the word, and the sharing of testimony. Pray for oppportunities for each of them to impart those values to the kids of Living Faith.

Pray for local school boards. Pray that they will be able to lead the way in our schools being places of peace.

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John 5 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused onthe ways God calls us to meet grace with faith.
 
Pause for Reflection:
Have you ever let facts about your mental health speak louder than your faith? How have you learned to balance both truths?

Pray for the Elder Board of Living Faith to seek the God of Peace in every decision.

Pray for local officials to prioritize community peace. Pray that they will be able to lead the way in being people of peace.

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Mark 8 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. Today's message will be focused on the process of sanctification. Sanctification is defined as the process of being set apart by God for holy use, transforming a believer into the likeness of Jesus Christ.
 
Pause for Reflection:
What advice or encouragement would you give someone who is in a season of waiting for healing? Is there a personal experience when you received Jesus’ healing, or saw someone you know experience it? What makes that memorable, and how can that encourage you in difficult moments?

Pray for the service today to be FULL of the peace of God! Pray that everyone who needs to encounter His peace in a fresh way will do so.

Pray for area churches to be known as houses of peace.

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Phillipians 2 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the process of sanctification. Sanctification is defined as the process of being set apart by God for holy use, transforming a believer into the likeness of Jesus Christ.
 
Pause for Reflection:
The biggest part of sanctification usually takes place in our gray matter--our minds! What does it mean to you to have "the mind of Christ?" If you could do "surgery" on your mind and "dissect" it, what parts of your mind feel renewed? What parts of your mind would you want to put on God's operating table and ask Him to touch it with His healing hands?

Pray for the staff of Living Faith. Pray that their homes would be full of the peace of God.

Pray for Elkhart First Responders to walk in supernatural peace.

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Romans 6 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the process of sanctification. Sanctification is defined as the process of being set apart by God for holy use, transforming a believer into the likeness of Jesus Christ.
 
Pause for Reflection:
How does understanding that we have been "united with Him in a death like His" affect your view of your old sinful nature? What steps can you take to offer parts of your body to God as instruments of righteousness? How do you see your past, present, and future in light of Romans 6? 

Pray for the Richardson family, Living Faith missionaries to the Middle East. Pray that the God of Peace will set them apart to be carriers of His peace in the midst of chaos. 

Pray for Downtown Ministries of Elkhart and their new classes that have begun to teach personal finance management. 

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2 Corinthians 3 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the process of sanctification. Sanctification is defined as the process of being set apart by God for holy use, transforming a believer into the likeness of Jesus Christ.
 
Pause for Reflection:
Reflect over the journey of your spiritual life. How have you already been transformed to look more like Jesus? Think of "how it started" and where it is now. What has God already accomplished through your relationship with him? Give Him thanks for that transformative work todaty!

Here is a great song to use to reflect on this miracle!

Pray for the women of Living Faith today. Pray that the God of Peace will set them apart to be carriers of His peace.

Pray for RETA to be a place where many find peace.

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I Thessalonians 5 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the process of sanctification. Sanctification is defined as the process of being set apart by God for holy use, transforming a believer into the likeness of Jesus Christ.
 
Pause for Reflection:
Verses 23-24 of today's reading are our theme verses of this series. In light of the words Paul writes as a prayer here, reflect on the following thougts:

• How do you tend to respond in fight-or-flight situations?
• On a scale from 1-10, how open are you with friends and family about any mental health struggles you may face?
• Is the Lord already speaking to you through this series? Is there an area you want to "lean into" as we progress through the series?

It may be a good idea to journal your thoughts today, especially if you feel the Lord is highlighting specific areas of needed health.

Pray for the men of Living Faith today. Pray that the God of Peace will set them apart to be carriers of His peace.

Pray for those who are homeless in our region. Pray for them to encounter the peace of God in tangible ways. 

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John 17 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the process of sanctification. Sanctification is defined as the process of being set apart by God for holy use, transforming a believer into the likeness of Jesus Christ.
 
Pause for Reflection:
How should the unity Jesus prays for among believers affect our behavior within the Christian community? In the face of trials or hardships, how does knowing Jesus prayed for you give you comfort or strength?

Pray for the youth of Living Faith today. Pray that the God of Peace will set them apart to be carriers of His peace.

Pray for Adult Teen Challenge of Elkhart. Pray that each participant will experience deliverance from addiction and the peace of God.

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Mark 8 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This week's message will be focused on the process of sanctification. Sanctification is defined as the process of being set apart by God for holy use, transforming a believer into the likeness of Jesus Christ.
 
Pause for Reflection:
Why do you think the disciples struggled to understand Jesus' warning about the leaven of the Pharisees? What is the connection between faith and understanding in Mark 8? How do you react when you don't understand Jesus' teachings or God's plans?

Pray for the children of Living Faith today. Pray that the God of Peace will set them apart at an early age to be carriers of His peace.

Pray for local schools to be full of peace. Pray that the chaos the enemy would seek to bring there would not have entrance.

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Isaiah 26 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. Today's message will be focused on God as our first source of strength.

Pause for Reflection:
How does Isaiah's description of the 'strong city' resonate with you? What does it mean to have "perfect peace" as described in verse 3? How can you apply this to your life? How can the song of Judah serve as a model for your personal prayers and praises?

Pray for the service at Living Faith today. Pray that the God of Peace will meet every person in a real way this morning.

Pray for unity in the Body of Christ in Elkhart County. Specifically pray that the area pastors will form healthy, supportive relationships with one another that will defeat the spirit of competition.

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Romans 12 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This coming Sunday's message will be focused on God as our first source of strength.

Pause for Reflection:
How does the transformation by the renewal of mind look like in everyday life? In what ways can you personally renew your mind to better discern the will of God? Are there any decisions that need to be made to enable you to do that?

Pray for the marriages at Living Faith. Pray that they will find healing and wholeness rooted in the love of Christ.

Pray for strong families in Elkhart County.

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2 Peter 1 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This coming Sunday's message will be focused on God as our first source of strength.

For some context of 2 Peter and what Peter is trying to accomplish through his writing, you can watch this video from the Bible Project that gives an overview of the book.

Pause for Reflection:
How does Peter describe the divine power and promises of God in verses 1-4? What virtues does Peter encourage believers to cultivate and why? How does the pursuit of these virtues contribute to being able to receive the strength of God for the long haul?

Pray for the Living Faith Community Groups. Pray that the Lord will set the lonely in families and that everyone who needs friendship will be able to find it at Living Faith.

Pray for Church Community Services of Elkhart.

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Psalm 88 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This coming Sunday's message will be focused on God as our first source of strength.

For a beautiful rendition of this psalm in music, spend some time listening to the Corner Project version.

Pause for Reflection:
How does the Psalmist's honest communication with God reflect his relationship with Him Why do you think the Psalmist continues to pray despite feeling like God is not listening?


If you are in distress in any way today, it would be a good time to pour that out in tears form before the Lord. Spend some time journaling and emptying out your heart before Him today. He can handle it.

Pray for the physical health of church members. Pray for individual needs as they come to mind.

Pray for the Elkhart County Jail Ministry.

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Psalm 56 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This coming Sunday's message will be focused on God as our first source of strength.

For a beautiful rendition of this psalm in music, spend some time listening to The Psalm's Project version.

Pause for Reflection:
What does Psalm 56 teach us about responding to fear? What does this Psalm teach about the power of prayer during challenging times? How does the concept of God recording our tears comfort you in times of distress?

Pray for the Pantry. Pray that everyone who comes in our doors in distress will leave knowing they are seen and loved by the Father.

Pray for the local food banks.

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Psalm 46 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This coming Sunday's message will be focused on God as our first source of strength.

For a beautiful rendition of this psalm in music, spend some time listening to Shane and Shane's rendition.

Pause for Reflection:
What natural disasters and societal upheavals mentioned in Psalm 46 can you relate to in today's world? In what ways have you experienced God as an "ever-present help in trouble"? How can the message of God’s stability bring peace into your life, particularly in the face of current global challenges? What does it mean to "be still, and know that I am God"? How can this be applied in your life at this exact moment? 

Pray for the youth mission trip to the Dominican Republic this summer. Pray for the safety of all who are preparing to go.

Pray for the local chapter of Habitat for Humanity.

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I Thessalonians 5:23-24 | Read in NIV YouVersion
Psalm 34 | Read in NIV YouVersion

In this series, we are studying the power the gospel brings to heal our hurting minds. This coming Sunday's message will be focused on God as our first source of strength.

For a beautiful rendition of this psalm in music, spend some time listening to Shane and Shane's version.

Pause for Reflection:
How does David's continual praise of God in verses 1-3 challenge your personal worship practices? What fears do you need God to deliver you from as mentioned in verse 4? What does it mean to you to "taste and see" that the Lord is good (verse 8)?  How does the assurance of God’s deliverance in verses 19-22 provide comfort in your current situation?

Pray for the finances of Living Faith to be healthy and that the Lord will help us do the maximum amount of good with our resources as possible to accomplish the work He has called us to.

Pray for the local economy to be strong and vibrant.

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Matthew 28:1-20 | Read in NIV YouVersion

This week, we have followed along in Matthew's recordings of Jesus as He moves to the cross in what is commonly referred to as "Holy Week," or "Passion Week."

Today is the greatest day of celebration as we remember what happened on Resurrection Sunday! Happy Easter!

Pause for Reflection:
How does Jesus reveal himself to different people? Why does He do it this way? What do you notice about their responses? What do you want YOUR response to be?

Pray for the service at Living Faith today. Pray that those who are lost will find Jesus today, either in person or online!

Pray for area churches as they celebrate Easter together. Pray that God's purposes will be accomplished in all of them.

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Matthew 27:62-66 | Read in NIV YouVersion

This week, we will follow along in Matthew's recordings of Jesus as He moves to the cross in what is commonly referred to as "Holy Week," or "Passion Week."

On Saturday, Jesus is in the grave. But, Sunday is coming!

Pause for Reflection:
Take a moment to write a prayer reflecting on the sacrifice of Jesus. Tell God how it makes you feel, if you have been convicted of sin again, what you are grateful for, or what new thing you appreciate about Jesus and what He has done.

Pray for the staff of Living Faith as they prepare to say "Welcome Home" to our neighborhood and those who visit this weekend!

Pray for Elkhart First Responders to have the staff they need to accomplish their work.

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Matthew 27:1-61 | Read in NIV YouVersion

This week, we will follow along in Matthew's recordings of Jesus as He moves to the cross in what is commonly referred to as "Holy Week," or "Passion Week."

On Friday, Jesus is put through several trials and beatings throughout the night hours. He is ultimately condemned to die and crucified. He breathes His last at the end of the day and is buried in a borrowed tomb.

Pause for Reflection:
Jesus prays for forgiveness for those crucifying Him. How does this shape your response to personal suffering or injustice? What significance do you find in the supernatural events following Jesus' death? How does the public's participation in Jesus' crucifixion reflect societal dynamics you've witnessed? What can you learn from the women who remained with Jesus until the end?

Pray for the Richardson family, our missionaries to the Middle East. Continue to pray for their protection and wisdom in making decisions during this difficult time of war.

Pray for Downtown Ministries to have the volunteers/staff they need to accomplish their work.

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Matthew 26:17-75 | Read in NIV YouVersion

This week, we will follow along in Matthew's recordings of Jesus as He moves to the cross in what is commonly referred to as "Holy Week," or "Passion Week."

On Thursday, Jesus observes the Passover Meal with His disciples in an upper room. Jesus explicitly explains He is establishing a "New Covenant" and alludes to the fact that it fulfills the Old Covenant, which is chronicled in Exodus 24. He then travels with them to the Garden of Gethsemene and spends the evening in intense prayer before He is betrayed by Judas and arrested.

Pause for Reflection:
How can you draw strength from Jesus' response to His impending crucifixion? How can Jesus' prayer in Gethsemane guide your own prayers when facing trials and decisions?  

Pray for the women of Living Faith to "be on [their] guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong" (1 Corinthians 16:13).

Pray for RETA to have the volunteers/staff they need to accomplish their work.

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Matthew 26:1-16 | Read in NIV YouVersion

This week, we will follow along in Matthew's recordings of Jesus as He moves to the cross in what is commonly referred to as "Holy Week," or "Passion Week."

It is thought by many scholars that on Tuesday evening, Jesus has an important meal in Bethany, where He is anointed by Mary. In this passage, we also see Judas' betrayal set in motion. The Scripture is silent about what Jesus did on Wednesday.

Pause for Reflection:

It is apparent that Mary was serving Jesus in a way that would help prepare Him for what ws coming in the death and burial process He would go through. What would you have wanted to do for Jesus to help Him through that, in light of what He has done for you?

It is also apparent that Judas was trying everything to hinder Jesus from fulfilling His mission in order to force Him to accomplish a different agenda. Have you ever tried to get Jesus to come to your way of thinking instead of bending to His? How did that go?

Pray for the men of Living Faith to "be on [their] guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong" (1 Corinthians 16:13).

Pray for the homeless of Elkhart County to be delivered into better living situations and good opportunities for life change.

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Matthew 21:23-23:39 | Read in NIV YouVersion

This week, we will follow along in Matthew's recordings of Jesus as He moves to the cross in what is commonly referred to as "Holy Week," or "Passion Week."

On Tuesday, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees.

Pause for Reflection:

"Unbelief isn’t the only reason people question Jesus’ authority. These questions often come from misplaced fear, which is what we see in verse 26. Instead of fearing God, which the Bible says is the beginning of knowledge (Proverbs 1:7), these leaders had an unhealthy fear of man. This misplaced fear is what led them to question Jesus, and it leads many people to question Jesus’ authority today. The question for us is, Will we let unbelief and the opinions of others control us, or will we submit to God and His Son Jesus Christ?" 
- taken from the devotional book, Exalting Jesus in Matthew

Pray for the youth of Living Faith to grow in "wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man," like Jesus did. (Luke 2:52)

Pray for Adult/Teen Challenge in Elkhart County.

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Matthew 21:12-22 | Read in NIV YouVersion

This week, we will follow along in Matthew's recordings of Jesus as He moves to the cross in what is commonly referred to as "Holy Week," or "Passion Week."

On Monday, Jesus begins daily trips from Bethany on the Mount of Olives to the Temple. His first act is cleansing the Temple from the money-changers. In Isaiah 56:7, God says that His house will be called a “house of prayer for all nations.” Yet here in Matthew 21, the people of God were preventing the nations from praying. On the road, He also curses a fig tree.

Pause for Reflection:
How does this passage challenge religious hypocrisy? What does the cursing of the fig tree teach us about faith and fruitfulness?

Pray for the children of Living Faith to grow in "wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man," like Jesus did. (Luke 2:52)

Pray for local schools in Elkhart County.

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