Flawed But Chosen | Week 1
Day 1: Seeing Beyond Appearances
Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
Devotional: God's perspective often differs radically from our own. While we tend to judge by outward appearances, God looks at the heart. Reflect on times when you may have misjudged someone based on first impressions. How might God see them differently? Consider also how God sees you - not for your accomplishments or failures, but for the state of your heart. Pray for God to give you His eyes to see yourself and others as He does. Today, make an effort to look beyond the surface and seek to understand the hearts of those around you.
Day 2: Faithfulness in Obscurity
Reading: Luke 16:10-12
Devotional: David's years as a shepherd, though seemingly insignificant, were crucial preparation for his future role. God often uses seasons of obscurity to shape our character and prepare us for greater responsibilities. What "hidden" roles or responsibilities do you currently have? How might God be using these to develop your character? Remember, your faithfulness in small things matters greatly to God. Ask Him to help you remain diligent and trustworthy, even when no one else is watching.
Day 3: God's Unexpected Choices
Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31
Devotional: God delights in choosing the unlikely and overlooked to accomplish His purposes. This challenges our human tendency to elevate the strong, talented, or influential. Reflect on how God has used "unlikely" people throughout Scripture and perhaps in your own life. Where do you feel inadequate or overlooked? Surrender those feelings to God, trusting that He can use you powerfully despite (or even because of) your perceived weaknesses. Thank Him for His grace that qualifies the called, rather than calling the qualified.
Day 4: Waiting on God's Timing
Reading: Psalm 27:13-14
Devotional: There's often a gap between God's calling and its fulfillment, as David experienced. This waiting period can be frustrating, but it's a crucial time of preparation and character development. Are you in a season of waiting? How might God be using this time to shape you? Practice patience today, trusting that God's timing is perfect. Use this waiting period to deepen your relationship with Him and prepare your heart for what He has planned.
Day 5: The Heart God Sees
Reading: Jeremiah 17:9-10
Devotional: Our hearts are complex - capable of great love and devotion, but also prone to deceit. Yet God sees and knows our hearts completely. Take time for honest self-reflection today. Ask God to reveal any areas of your heart that need transformation. Confess any hidden sins or attitudes that don't align with His will. Thank Him for His grace that cleanses and renews our hearts. Pray for a heart that seeks to please God above all else, knowing that He sees and values the state of our inner being more than any outward display.