Sermon On The Mount

Welcome to a personal devotional time for the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5 -7) . You are always welcome to follow your own devotional format, but if you feel you need one or even a fresh way of spending time with God in His Word, we’ve provided an option for you using the acrostic, P.R.A.I.S.E.:

Praise – A great way to begin your devotional time is to acknowledge who God is, which will help you to be more spiritually sensitive to what He wants to teach you.

Read the text – To have a better grasp on what the author is saying, it’s best to at least read the section of Scripture before and after the immediate text you focusing on each day.

Ask questions – We have provided questions for you to ponder, but know that you don’t have to address them all each day.

Interpret the context – When you are reflecting on a word, phrase or verse, be sure to remain consistent with the context. It’s important to ask yourself if the author would have intended his original audience to understand him the way you are interpreting him.

Summarize – You will be blessed by committing to writing down the main points and personal application. This exercise will help you think more deeply about the meaning of the passage and your response to it.

Engage with God – It’s so wonderful to begin with the Lord and close this particular devotional time with Him in prayer. This is the moment to talk with God about your response to the passage, asking Him to apply it to your heart, to give you further understanding, faith and obedience. If you need a resource on how to pray, please click here.

Matthew 5:3-12 Week 1 (Days 1-5)

Week 1

Day 1

Praise (What is it about God’s character that I am grateful for?)

Read the text: Matthew 5:3-4 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What does being poor in spirit mean to you? (v. 3)
When you consider Jesus, what do you think you’re in need of? (v. 3)
What are you brokenhearted over? (v. 4)

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions to Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Do you think verse 3 is referring to those who are economically poor, spiritually poor, or both? And why?
Consider how Romans 8:18 comes into play with verse 3.
What spiritual values do you long for or are in need of? (i.e. – forgiveness, mercy, kindness, grace, love, truth, honesty and salvation for examples)
How does it make you feel knowing that the Lord has already anticipated your angst, sorrow or grief through His humanity and ultimately dying for you?
Read Psalm 51:17 and consider how this verse reflects verse 4.
What kind of attitude do you desire to put into practice in order to truly experience being as blessed as you are?

PDF for Matthew 5:3-4

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Week 1

Day 2

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 1 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:5-6 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Should meekness be taken as being a push over? Why or why not? (v. 5)
In what ways do you see meekness as being submissive to the Lord?
What do you find yourself being hungry for? (v. 6)

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

What would be considered worldly desires to flee from? (v. 5) (See 2 Timothy 2:22)
In what ways do you understand 1 Peter 5: 5-6 coming into play here?
Considering the words, “they will inherit the earth,” contrast the world pursuing power and prestige with the follower of Jesus exhibiting gentleness and humility.
Reflect on the following passages in light of verse 6: Luke 1:53; Psalm 37:4; Matthew 4:4.
How do the following references impact you regarding justice? (Isaiah 30:18-19; Proverbs 31:8-9; Matthew 7:12; Luke 6:37; James 1:27)
Write out practical steps to pursuing righteousness? (See Psalm 42: 1-2a)

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:5-6

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Week 1

Day 3

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 2 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:7-8 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Define mercy in your own words. (v. 7)
Determine how you can express mercy to others in your circles of influence.
Define pure in heart in your own words. (v. 8)

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Read Matthew 18: 21-35. Determine how forgiveness is a powerful expression of mercy toward others.
Come up with reasons why you think practicing mercy generates the feeling of how blessed you are in Christ.
In what ways does Ephesians 5:1-2 lead to the development of being merciful?
How would you practice being pure in heart?
Read Philippians 4:8 and Romans 12:1-2. Determine how these references lead to being pure in heart.

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:7-8

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Week 1

Day 4

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 3 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:9-10 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Define peace in your own words. (v. 9)
Can you think of ways Jesus was a peacemaker?
What does persecution look like to you? (v. 10)

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Describe the difference between peacemaking and just appeasing.
How do you think a follower of Jesus wages peace at home, in the workplace, at school, etc.?
Think about how James 3:2-6 impacts your ability to promote peace.
Draw a conclusion about the degree of our Lord’s compassion simply based on the blessing that already awaits the persecuted, namely the Kingdom of Heaven.
What do you suppose 2 Timothy 3:12 means to you today in your world?
How can you identify, support and empower the persecuted church worldwide?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:9-10

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Week 1

Day 5

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 4 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:11-12 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

You might not be truly persecuted, but there’s certainly the possibility of experiencing false accusations, etc. Has any of this happened to you because you took a stand for the Lord? (v. 11)
How is it possible to rejoice in the midst of these kinds of oppositions?
How does it make you feel knowing how much God is on your side? (V. 12)

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

How have you handled a situation in which someone spoke out falsehood against you?
What scripture comes to mind about handling false accusations? (Consider 1 Peter 3:16; Exodus 20:16; Isaiah 54:17; Proverbs 11:9; 1 Peter 3:9)
Consider the hope, the blessing, the reward for waiting on the Lord, being patient in affliction and enduring for His sake, not only as you examined verses 3-11, but also here is verse 12.
Read 1 Peter 1:6-9 and James 1:2-4 and determine how joy can overcome our difficult or terrible circumstances.
In reflecting back over the week, what how is the Lord speaking to you?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:11-12

Matthew 5:13-16 Week 2 (Days 6-10)

Week 2

Day 6

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from time with the Lord over the weekend)

Read the text: Matthew 5:13-16 (Focus: Values and Purpose)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Begin with comparing and contrasting the values of the culture you live in with the values of the culture you are to exhibit (the Beatitudes, 5:3-12, who you are, your identity).
This leads to what you do, your purpose. How would you describe your purpose?
Consider what it means to be salt and light, your key purpose as a follower of Jesus.

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

To begin, consider how our church values relate to the Beatitudes (5:3-12):
In our relationship with God we value:
The mercy of God • The truth of God • Intimacy with God • God’s rulership and spiritual leading in our lives • Brokenness (spiritual humility) • Spiritual passion (wholehearted commitment)
In our relationships with each other:
Integrity and authenticity • Faithfulness and reliability • Christianity as a lifestyle • Care and quality in ministry • Servant leadership • Christian unity • Non-controlling relationships
In our relationship with the community:
Healing to the whole person • Friendship outreach • Bridge-building to other churches • Cultural awareness • Helping the poor • Community involvement
Why do you suppose we are often confused about identity and purpose?
What are some sub-purposes of the church? (Examples: Matthew 16:17-18 [a force]; Matthew 18:15-17 [a fellowship]; 1 Corinthians 10:31 [for the glory of God]; John 13:34-35 [love one another]; Psalm 150:6 [worship])
Why do you think we need to choose Jesus’ statements that you are salt and light for our key distinct purpose?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:13-16 (VALUES & PURPOSE)

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Week 2

Day 7

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 6 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:13-16 (Focus: Influence)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What does it mean to you to be influential?
Describe how salt and light are agents of influence.
Now transfer your description of the influence of salt and light into your life. What does it look like?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

What do the following references, out of Proverbs, tell you about being an influential follower of Jesus? (Proverbs 27: 9, 17; 10:17; 13:20; 15:1; 12:26; 29:12)
Consider how men and women in the Bible, like Daniel, Caleb, David, Peter, Mary Magdalene and Joanna were or became influencers. (We encourage you to look them up in Scripture.)
Think deeply how salt and light are amazing agents of influence?
In what ways can you be similarly influential in your home, workplace, school, neighborhood, community and church?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:13-16 (INFLUENCE)

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Week 2

Day 8

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 7 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:13-16 (Focus: Reflection)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What things in life reflect something or someone?
Describe how you see salt and light being reflective of Jesus.
Now transfer your description of the reflective nature of salt and light into your life. What does it look like?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

What do the following references tell you about being reflective of God? (Genesis 1:26; 12:3; Exodus 19:6; Isaiah 49:6; John 9:5; 12:26; Philippians 2:15)
Consider how men and women in the Bible, like Moses, Joseph, Abraham, Esther, Hannah, and Lois and Eunice were reflective of God’s character. (We encourage you to look them up in Scripture.)
Think deeply how salt and light are wonderfully reflective agents?
Remind yourself of the part of God’s character (Galatians 5:22-23) that He has enabled you to reflect.
In what ways can you take your reflection of God’s character in your home, workplace, school, neighborhood, community and church?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:13-16 (REFLECTION)

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Week 2

Day 9

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 8 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:13-16 (Focus: You are salt & light)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Make as long of a list as you can think of that salt and light do. (Examples: preserve & illuminate)
Pick a few of your favorites and describe how they related to your life as a follower of Jesus.
Take it a step further. How do your same descriptions of salt and light play a role in how you make a change in others for Jesus?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

“You are…” There is no plan B. You are God’s Purpose, Ambassador and Plan. How does this make you feel?
Why do you think it is so critical how we live as much as it is what we say?
Salt is potent. Compare that to a follower of Jesus going against the tide of worldly influence.
Salt provides flavor. Compare that to a follower of Jesus’ impact on the meaning of life.
Light, in Scripture, mostly speaks of truth and righteousness with a continuous glow. Why do you suppose light does that, particularly the light that shines in followers of Jesus?
What would do you imagine it looking like if everyone in our church became missional: salt & light?
Who do you want to be salt & light to?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:13-16 (SALT & LIGHT)

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Week 2

Day 10

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 9 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:13-16 (Focus: Remaining Guarded)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

In what ways do you see a follower of Jesus losing his/her saltiness or his/her light becoming dim?
What do you think happens to you if this occurs?
In what ways can you guard against losing your purpose?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

What do you suppose are the risks to being salt and light?
Losing one’s saltiness is the same as losing one’s identity. What does this mean to you personally?
Consider Luke 14:34-35 as a warning. How do you plan to remain salty? (Hint: Matthew 5:3-12)
What do you think happens to the world around you when you lose your focus on your purpose as salt and light?
As a follower of Jesus, how do you continue to let your light shine?
Starting with verse 16, working backwards to verse 14, reflect on the spread of light that begins with you, (i.e. – You, then your home, then your community, then the world). What do you want your role to look like in your calling to be light?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:13-16 (REMAINING GUARDED)

Matthew 6:5-15 Week 3 (Days 11-15)

Week 3

Day 11

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:5-6

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Maybe instead of prayer, has there been another reason you have found yourself trying to look good in front of others to get all the praise?
What do you see the difference is between what Jesus was accusing Jewish religious leaders of and praying in front of a crowd, but staying focused on Jesus?
Where can you go daily to get alone with God in prayer?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Keep in mind that the Jewish religious leaders did not appose prayer. They simply used it to gain personal attention. Why do you suppose the Jewish religious leaders were so bent on getting attention in many ways, including praying in public?
Why do you suppose we all crave attention from others?
How do you see pride being an issue here with the Jewish religious leaders? (James 4:6, 10)
If you were called on to pray for a group of friends, classmates or co-workers, to whom do you believe your attention should be focused on? Why?
Determine a specific location to pray daily in order to form a habit.
Here are 9 verses that speak to ushering in the presence of God: Isaiah 50:4; Jeremiah 33:3; Psalm 46:10, 42:1-2, 84:1-2, 27:8; James 4:8; Hebrews 10:19-22.

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:5-6

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Week 3

Day 12

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 11 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:7-8

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What do you think the difference is between saying a pre-written prayer over and over again and a prayer that you continue to mediate on it over and over again?
How many times have you said or heard the same prayer at dinnertime?
How do you suppose follower of Jesus should approach pre-written prayers like the Lord’s prayer?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

How do you keep your mind from wandering away from God during your prayer time?
How might Romans 8:26 be a proper response to this first question?
What can a follower of Jesus do to continue growing in his/her prayer life in order to keep from just saying the same prayers over and over again and losing its significance?
Consider committing the following Psalms to memory and you mediate on them and incorporate them into your prayer life: Psalms 4, 8, 22, 32, 42, 51 and 91).
Now it’s important to ask why you think it’s still of great value to be a person of prayer even though God already knows what you are going to pray about? (Consider: Matthew 7:7; 1 Thessalonians 5:17; John 14:13; Psalms 66:18-19; Romans 8:29; James 4:2)

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:7-8

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Week 3

Day 13

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 12 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:9-10

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Think about it. God can be called Father or daddy!
How do you feel about having a close relationship with the almighty Creator of the universe?
Just thinking about God, (His name), what do you want to praise Him for?
What’s even better, God came to you to show how much He loves you and that He wants to be your Guide throughout your life. What do you need to turn over to Him for Him to take control?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Take a moment to reflect on God being your Father in Scripture: I John 3:1; Isaiah 9:6; Psalms 103:13; Proverbs 3:11-12; Matthew 6:26; John 17:24, 14:23.
What do you observe about the Psalmists’ reverence of God: Psalm 7:17, 8:1,9; 20:1, 33:21, 80:18, 72:19 and 135:13.
What kind of impact does the prayer for His Kingdom to come have on you right now? (Socially, physically, intellectually, morally and spiritually)
What does it mean to you that God’s Kingdom is here (Matthew 4:17; Luke 17:21), but not yet (Luke 19:11-12)?
In what ways is God’s will being done in your life today?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:9-10

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Week 3

Day 14

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 13 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:11, 13

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Jesus is called the Bread of Life (John 6:35). What does that mean to you?
Jesus is also our guardian, by His Spirit in us (I Corinthians 10:13). How often do you rely on Him?
What else comes to mind about who Jesus is to you?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

When have you really experienced God’s provision in your life? (Your daily bread)
In what way(s) does Matthew 6: 26-34 relate to verse 11?
How do you incorporate a petition for the Lord’s protection in your life on a daily basis? (See Romans 12:2 and 1 Peter 5:7-8)
How do you see James 1: 13-15 coming into play with verse 13?
How do you want to live differently as a result of reflecting on these verses?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:11,13

Matthew 6:25-33 Week 4 (Days 16-20)

Week 4

Day 16

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:25, 31, 34 (Do not worry)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

When you think of worry or anxiety, what comes to mind?
What do you worry about the most?
Jesus knows that we worry when we don’t pursue Him first and foremost. What habit(s) do you need to develop to seek Him first?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

In what ways do you see the word, therefore, serving as a bridge between 6:24 and 6:25?
Describe what worrying does to your mind, body and emotions. (Consider the Greek word, merimnao, which means to have anxiety, be anxious, be (unduly) concerned, to be apprehensive.)
Do you think Jesus is advocating that we do not need to think about eating and drinking, that it will just happen for us if we follow Him? Why or why not?
What’s do you see as the difference between having the necessities of life on your mind and being obsessing over them?
Examine the following references regarding worry: Isaiah 41:10; 1 Peter 5:7; Psalm 94:19; John 14:27; Luke 12:22b-23; Matthew 13:12.
How do you want to live differently as a result of reflecting on these verses?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6: 25, 31, 34 (DO NOT WORRY)

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Week 4

Day 17

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 16 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:25-26, 28-30, 32 (God’s Care)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Do you tend to worry about the necessities of life or take them for granted?
After reading these verses, to what degree do you have a sense of God’s care for you?
Describe the balance between your responsibility and God’s care for you?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Besides the analogies of food and clothing, what comes to your mind when you think about God caring for you?
Why do you suppose some people think they don’t have to work, using these verses as their proof text? (Consider Genesis 3:17-19; 2 Thessalonians 3:10-12)
In what ways does worry infiltrate all areas of socio-economics?
Consider how one’s heart plays a key role what’s most important in our lives as worshippers of Jesus? (See 1 Peter 3:3)
How do you want to live differently as a result of reflecting on these verses?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6: 25-26, 28-30, 32 (GOD’S CARE)

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Week 4

Day 18

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 17 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:27 (Worrying is Wasted Energy)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Make a list of what brings you life?
Why do you think those things you just listed, bring you life?
Why do you think worry cannot be one of those things that bring you life?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Dr. Charles Mayo, of the Mayo Clinic said that our circulatory systems, our hearts, our glands, in fact our whole nervous system is affected when we worry. Why do you think that’s true?
And, if that’s true, can you see any benefits to worry or anxiety?
How can a follower of Jesus maintain, even grow, in peace and joy in spite of his/her circumstances? (Meditate on James 1: 2-8)
How do you want to live differently as a result of reflecting on these verses?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6: 27 (WORRYING IS WASTED ENERGY)

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Week 4

Day 19

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 18 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:30-32 (The Sin of Worrying)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Why do you suppose anxiety or worry is such a roadblock to growing in your faith in the Lord?
Describe the difference between thinking about your future and fretting over your future?
How can you guard against worrying about your future and grow in your faith?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Why do you suppose Jesus linked worrying with a lack of faith?
Why do you think Jesus termed worrying a sin?
In these verses, the term, pagan (or Gentiles), was referring to anyone who does not believe and follow Jesus. Contrast the point you see Jesus making in these verses with how you, as a follower of Jesus should be exercising your faith?
Examine the following references to understand how a lack of faith is sin: Hebrews 11:6; Mark 4:40; Matthew 6:24, 8:26, 10:33; Romans 14:23; Titus 1:16.
How do you want to live differently as a result of reflecting on these verses?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:30-32 (THE SIN OF WORRYING)

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Week 4

Day 20

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 19 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:32-33 (Pursuing God)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What do you observe people seeking the most of these days?
What does it mean to you to seek God’s Kingdom first?
How do you plan to put this into practice daily?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Compare/Contrast seeking what’s important to the world with what’s important to the Lord.
Again, how do you understand worrying impacting your striving for the Kingdom?
Agree or Disagree, and why? We are to seek God’s Kingdom here and now to battle the evil in this world and to be our empowerment for being salt and light ourselves, (Mt. 5:48; Philippians 3:9).
Read Philippians 4:6-7. What do you observe as steps to take to escape the grip that worry can have on you?
Consider how you may be the essential means by which God uses to provide for others’ needs. What does that look like in your current situation?
How do you want to live differently as a result of reflecting on these verses?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:32-33 (PURSUING GOD)

Matthew 5:17-20 Week 5 (Days 21-25)

Week 5

Day 21

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:17-20 (Focus: Need for the Old Testament)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What has been your take on Old Testament Laws?
What about the moral laws (Example: 10 Commandments)? If Jesus fulfilled these directives from the Father by perfectly obeying them, do you believe it’s reasonable that followers of Jesus are to obey them to today? Why or why not?
Agree or disagree, and why? The Bible’s moral laws bring out our knowledge of sin (Romans 7:7).

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

The Law was broken down into 3 categories: Judicial, concerning the actions and behavior of Israel as a nation, Ceremonial, covering Israel’s methods of worship and being cleansed from sin, and Moral, focused on the directives for people to live in a right relationship with God and with each other. List how you see Jesus being the fulfillment of the O.T. Laws.
Examine the following references to further understand Jesus’ fulfillment of the O.T. Laws: Hebrews 4:15; 9:11-12; 10:9-12; 19-25.
If you really want to examine this further, there is a longer list in the PDF link below.

In what way(s) do you understand that Jesus fulfilled the moral law which revealed the knowledge of sin?
In what way(s) do you understand that moral law in the New Testament, also called the Law of Christ, is what followers of Jesus are called to obey? (See John 14:21-23)
Consider why the following are commands under the Law of Christ: (Communion – John 13, 1 Corinthians 11; Baptism – Matthew 28:20; Submission to authority – Matthew 22:21, Romans 13:7; Submission to government – Romans 13:1; moral behavior (royal law) – Matthew 22:37-39)

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:17-20 (NEED FOR THE O.T.)

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Week 5

Day 22

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from Day 11 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:17-20 (Focus: Need for righteousness)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

If the Law, simply put, revealed our need for Someone Else’ righteousness in order to be saved, why do you suppose so many Jewish religious leaders and their followers added various works to earn their salvation?
Why do you think Jesus was more concerned with one’s heart? (Read Matthew 6:21)
What role does our attitude play in our approach to Jesus’ directives in our lives?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

In what way(s) do you understand Romans 3:20-22 and Romans 8:3-4 revealing Christ’s fulfillment of our need for His righteousness?
How do you see Romans 10:9-10 as an open door to receiving the righteousness of Christ?
How do you see yourself, as a follower of Jesus, abiding in God’s grace rather than becoming a “darn-right” Christian? (i.e. – being an “inside/out” Christian, not an “outside/in” legalistic Christian)
How can you exhibit Christ’s righteousness to others? (See John 15:10-12; Colossians 3:13; Micah 6:8; James 1:19-20, 4:10; Ephesians 4:29; 1 Peter 1:15-16; Philippians 4:8-9)

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:17-20 (NEED FOR RIGHTEOUSNESS)

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Week 5

Day 23

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from Day 12 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:17-20 (Focus: Need for goodness)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Describe goodness in terms of your belief, thinking and behavior.
In what was has Jesus been an example of goodness in your life?
What do you feel you need to do to so that your goodness, according to verse 20, does not become like that of the scribes and Pharisees?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

How would you describe goodness?
Look at how Scripture describes the goodness of the Lord: Exodus 34:6; Psalm 86:5, 145:9; I Chronicles 16:34; Isaiah 41:10; James 1:17; Nahum 1:7; Romans 5:8.
What do the following references tell you about exhibiting goodness? Psalm 34:8, 100:5, 143:10; Galatians 5:22-23, 6:10; Romans 8:28, 12:9, 15:14; Ephesians 4:29, 32; Matthew 12:35; Micah 6:8; James 3:13.
From the preceding verses, how do you see goodness playing a key role in your belief, thinking and behavior?
By what you have examined in Scripture and have reflected on in your mind and heart, in what way(s) should your goodness be able to exceed that of the scribes and Pharisees?
How are you going to live differently as a result of this study?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:17-20 (NEED FOR GOODNESS)

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Week 5

Day 24

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from Day 13 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:17-20 (Focus: Need for being genuine)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

When you hear of someone being accused of being a hypocrite, what does that mean to you?
When you think about being a genuine person, what comes to mind?
In what way(s) does Matthew 23:25 relate to verse 20?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Beside hypocrisy, what other words come to mind when someone, like some of the scribes and Pharisees, is being two-faced
Describe what the following statement means to you: “It’s not the law that is in question, it’s the use of the law.”
What do the following references tell you about being hypocritical or untrustworthy? (1 John 4:20; Matthew 7:1-5, 15:7-9, 23:23; 2 Timothy 3:5; Proverbs 10:9, 28:26; Titus 2:7; Colossians 3:9-10; I Corinthians 15:33)
What do the following references tell you about being genuine? Romans 12:2, 9; 1 Timothy 1:5; 1 Peter 1:7, 22, 4:8; James 1:27; Ephesians 4:31-32; Galatians 5:22-23; I Corinthians 13:6.
How are you going to live differently as a result of this study?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:17-20 (NEED FOR BEING GENUINE)

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Week 5

Day 25

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from Day 14 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:17-20 (Focus: Need for the Holy Spirit)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What do you think is the difference between earning God’s grace and receiving it?
Why do you suppose we need the Holy Spirit in order to be and act the way the Lord command us to?
In light of these verses, how do you want the Holy Spirit to change you?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

What can happen when followers of Jesus try to “earn” favor with God, like some of religious leaders did?
According to the following references, what do you see your life looking like when the Spirit is transforming you in Christ’s image? (Ezekiel 36:26; Romans 8:5-11; Galatians 5:22-23; 2 Corinthians 4:16, 3:18)
Jumping back a bit, how do you see the Holy Spirit playing a role developing His values (5:3-12) and Purpose (5:13-16) in and through you?
How are you going to live differently as a result of this study?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:17-20 (NEED FOR THE HOLY SPIRIT)

Matthew 5:21-48 Week 6 (Days 26-30)

Week 6

Day 26

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:21-26 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What is it that makes life so precious?
Who has made you feel of great value and worth? How?
Describe what anger does to a person.

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Draw a conclusion about Jesus’ authority, not only from this passage in Matthew, but also from Matthew 28:18; Mark 1:27; John 5:26-27.
Reflect on the following references regarding the value of life: Psalm 139:13-16; John 3:16; Genesis 9:6; Matthew 6:26; Exodus 20:13; 1 Corinthians 3:16-17.
In what ways do you see Hebrews 10:28-29 coming into view with this portion of Matthew 5?
Jesus was “arresting” what comes from the inside (anger) before it escalates. Why do you think this is so critical to the wellbeing of a follower of Jesus?
Also, why do you think is so important to practice reconciliation with anyone, especially with other followers of Jesus?
How do you want to live differently now?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:21-26

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Week 6

Day 27

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 26 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:27-30 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

The woman, in verse 26, is an example of any kind of lust (strong desire). What sort of “lusts” have been tugging at your heart and mind?
Self-evaluate: Do you think you’re taking this sin as serious as Jesus does? (vs. 29-30)
What does 1 John 1:9 tell you about God’s forgiveness?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Let’s begin with forgiveness: Read Isaiah 1:18; 43:25; Daniel 9:9; 1 John 1:9; Acts 3:19; Ephesians 1:7 and draw a conclusion about God’s forgiveness.
Why do you think Jesus went beyond just the external physical act of adultery and moved the issue internally to the heart and mind (lust)?
As mentioned above, the woman (v.26) is one of many forms of lust as we consider the whole counsel of Scripture. Consider for a moment what causes you to lust, not just with your eyes, but also with your mind and heart? (Examples: TV/movies, the Fifty Shades of Gray kind of books, grocery store tabloids, pornography, people dressed provocatively, money, image or possessions)
Apply James 1:14-15 to this passage in Matthew.
Evaluate the Lord’s seriousness on the issue of lust with how you have dealt with it.
What changes do you need to make in order for your heart and mind to pursue Christ first?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:27-30

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Week 6

Day 28

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 27 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:31-32 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

“The Greek word, porneia, from which we get our word, pornography, is a more comprehensive word than the word for adultery. The meaning of porneia involves sexual immorality, including fornication, uncleanness, adultery, indecency, misconduct, indiscretion or unfaithfulness.” (Teaching On Divorce, by Rudy Gray, February 21, 2014) (See also, Jeremiah 3:1; Amos 7:17; Matthew 19:9)
In Deuteronomy 24:1, if a husband, for example, found another woman he liked better, his wife put too much salt on his dinner meal, or even if he thought his wife was “obnoxious,” it was interpreted that he was “commanded” to divorce her. In other words, the Scribes and Pharisees had turned verse 1 into a command. Jews, even in Jesus’ day, believed that Moses commanded it. Not true. He only allowed divorce as a concession for man’s continual sinfulness. The same goes with Jesus, Paul and others, who hated divorce.
In the Old Testament God was making it clear that, as Jesus was in Matthew, divorce lead to adultery in almost all situations, which would have resulted in a death penalty. However, for example, when the Romans did not allow the death penalty, divorce became the only option at that point. Our Lord really wanted a better option and that would be to forgive and reconcile with the guilty partner as we see in Hosea 3.

Ask questions & interpret the context:

If you have been around divorce in some way, what kind of impression has it left on you?
What do you believe is God’s take on divorce?
Read Romans 8:38-39. Even though God does not condone or will it, do you believe that these verses cover divorce?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Again, let’s be reminded of the Lord’s forgiveness: Memorize 1 John 1:9.
Regarding the guilty partner, come to an understanding of our lord’s message in these 2 verses about divorce, that except for porneia, it’s as much an internal sin (of the heart and being responsible, not only for yourself, but also for others committing adultery through remarriage, v.32, also Luke 16:18) as it is an external sin (physical divorce).
How can you be an encouragement to a friend or loved one who is a victim of adultery or divorced by someone who doesn’t want to be married anymore (I Corinthians 7:1-13)?
How can you be an encouragement to a friend or loved one who is experiencing a divorce outside of God’s allowance for divorce? (Consider Ephesians 1:7; 4:22-24; Hebrews 9:14; 2 Corinthians 5:17, Acts 3:19)

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:31-32

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Week 6

Day 29

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 28 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:33-37 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Why do you suppose making an oath can be destructive?
Consider how Leviticus 19:12, Exodus 20:7 and James 5:12 come into play here.
Under what circumstances do you see an oath being permissible? (Hint: Court proceedings, weddings)

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Why do you suppose the oath, “I swear to God…” is so prevalent?
How have you felt when someone makes an oath that neither you and also probably God would not be interested in?
Why do you think you should resist the temptation to make useless oaths?
Agree/disagree, and why? “It is not the oath that makes us believe than man, but the man the oath.”
How do you see simplicity of speech being the safer path to take? (v.37)
How is the Lord speaking to you today regarding oaths, outside of the courts and weddings, etc?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:33-37

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Week 6

Day 30

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 29 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 5:38-48 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What is your first reaction to reading these verses?
Why do you suppose the Lord desires for you to maintain such a high level attitude toward others, especially those with whom you don’t’ get along with?
In what way(s) can you cling to Romans 12:19?
How do you want to pursue holiness (v.48)?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

When you read the following phrases, what first comes to mind? But I tell you, ‘Do not resist him who is evil,”“but whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also,” “If anyone sues you to take away your coat let him have your cloak also,” “Whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two,” “Give to him who asks you, and don’t turn away him who desires to borrow from you,” “But I tell you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who mistreat you and persecute you.”
What can a follower of Jesus do to resist reaction or retaliation in a heated moment? (Consider vs.39-42)
Why do you think Jesus included these verses in this powerful chapter?
Do you think a neighbor is one who is in need or one who has the power to help others who are in need? And why? (v.43)
What can a follower of Jesus do to return evil with goodness? (Consider verse 44)
How do you want to live differently in pursuit of holiness?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 5:38-48

Matthew 6:1-18 Week 7 (Days 31-35)

Week 7

Day 31

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:1 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What is your first reaction to reading this verse?
What does it mean to you to practice righteousness?
Do you think you lose reward by giving to the Lord or serving Him in front of others? Why or why not?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Make a list of acts of righteousness (from Matthew 6:1-18 and more).
How is it possible to live out what you wrote on your list and please the Lord and not man?
Read 3 John 9 and make a contrast between Diotrephes and with what Christ is asking of you?
Agree or disagree and Why? “It is the motive that matters, not the manner.” (Teachings of Jesus, by H Leo Eddleman, p.83.)
Come to an understanding of how to put Ephesians 4:22 into action in your life.
Ask or continue to ask the Lord to begin a good work in you (Ephesians 2:10).

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:1

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Week 7

Day 32

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 31 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:2-4 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Describe hypocrisy in your own words.
True or false, and why? According to these verses, followers of Jesus should not give publically when the offering is taken.
What do you understand to be the true act of righteousness in giving to the church, to the poor, etc.

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Get a feel for the following references on supporting the needy in your world: Proverbs 19:17; Hebrews 13:16; 2 Corinthians 9:7; 1 John 3:17; Matthew 25:35-45.
Describe the motive you feel you should have in giving?
Have you ever wanted others to know how much you help others less fortunate than you or receive recognition for doing so? Why do you think we feel or act that way?
What words characterize the kind of person God wants you to be out of these verses?
Ask or continue to ask the Lord to begin a good work in you (Ephesians 2:10).

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:2-4

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Week 7

Day 33

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 32 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:5-13 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What does hypocrisy in prayer look like to you?
Have you ever prayed to get a pat on the back and a big thank you?
What do you think you ought to do to learn to pray more deeply and more effectively?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

When or how does prayer become less about our focus on the Lord and more about how we feel or others feel about us?
Agree or disagree and why? Position or posture matters when it comes to praying.
Why do you think the Lord’s prayer is a good model?
How do you think passages, like the Lord’s Prayer, can become more personal and less mundane?
Consider these Psalm as models for developing your prayer life: 4, 8, 22, 32, 42, 51 and 91.
Ask or continue to ask the Lord to begin a good work in you (Ephesians 2:10).

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:5-13

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Week 7

Day 34

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 33 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:9-15 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Please see questions and statements to respond to (below) on the Lord’s Prayer

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Who art in Heaven

In Heaven shouts out that nothing is outside of God’s love, power and care for you.
What do you think about that?
Thank Him for holding everything together for you.

Hallowed

Nothing is more sacred than God.
Ever thought about any character of God’s that affects you?
Praise Him for those traits.

Be your Name

Google: names of God and think about them for a moment.
Turn ‘em into praise God for who he is to you.

Your Kingdom come

Ok so, how staggering is it that the almighty God came into our world just to show you how much He loves you?
Thank the Lord for wanting to come into your life.

Your will be done

It’s not everyday you probably ask someone to take control of your life. But isn’t it so comforting to know that God’s got you in His hands and without a doubt, knows what’s best for you?
Take a moment to let go and give your life, your day, your moments to God.

On earth as it is in Heaven

Even though you cannot see Him, do you know that you can truly experience peace and confidence that God is at work in your life?
How do you want to thank Him for His guidance in your life today?

And forgive us, our trespasses

How does it make you feel knowing that God forgives any of you sins, be it thoughts or actions?
What is it that you want to confess to God and ask for His forgiveness?

As we forgive those who trespass against us

If you think about it, it’s pretty powerful, knowing that God gives you the ability and strength to forgive others even when you don’t feel like it.
Is there anyone whom you need to forgive personally or in your heart so that the hurt you’ve experienced is no longer holding your down or tearing you apart?

And lead us not into temptation

Have you had felt a “red flag” on a situation or relationship? Consider that God may be protecting you from something or someone that’s not right, healthy or godly for you.
Ask God to give you a discerning spirit today with co-workers, neighbors, friends, or family.

But deliver us from evil

Do you need God’s protection, especially from temptation an sin at this time?
Ask God to provide you a way out.

For Yours is the Kingdom

Let’s circle back around again and remember what it means that He is God and we are not.
What is it that you need to give to God for Him to continue to be in charge of your life?

The power and glory

How awesome is it to know that you such a wonderful and powerful God, who’s got your back?
Take time to praise Him for how His power impacts you.

Forever and ever, amen

Think about it. You are His child, in His family forever. Nothing can snatch God away from you.
What do you want to thank Him for today?

Ask or continue to ask the Lord to begin a good work in you (Ephesians 2:10).

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:9-15

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Week 7

Day 35

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 34 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:16-18 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What does hypocrisy in fasting look like to you?
Have you ever fasted? Describe your experience.
Why fast?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Agree or disagree and why? Fasting makes you more spiritual.
What do the following purposes for fasting teach you about it? (Luke 4:1-13; Nehemiah 1:4; Psalm 35:13; 2 Samuel 12:17,23; Esther 4:3; Acts 13:2, 14:23).
What do the following references teach you about wrong motives for fasting? (Matthew 6:18; Luke 18:12-14; 1 Corinthians 8:8).
What do you understand to be right motives for fasting?
Ask or continue to ask the Lord to begin a good work in you (Ephesians 2:10).

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:16-18

Matthew 6:19-34, 2 Corinthians 9:6-8, Proverbs 29:25 Week 8 (Days 36-40)

Week 8

Day 36

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:19-21 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What are some common “treasures” we pursue in today’s world?
What kind of contrasts in your life to verses 19 & 20 describe?
What kind of “treasures” do you want in your life to count for eternity?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Why do you think it’s instinctive for humans to want to possess “things”?
Agree or disagree. Why? Wanting something is not sinful.
What do you love the most? Why?
What do you think is the difference between obtaining something you want and abusing or misusing something you got? (v. 20)
What are you “laying up” (or storing in Heaven) that counts for eternity or pleases God?
Describe the kind of heart you want to have. (v. 21).

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:19-21

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Week 8

Day 37

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 36 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:22-24 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Describe the gift of eyesight in your own words.
What’s better: To be blind and see the Truth or have sight and be blinded to the Truth? Why?
When and how does money become a “master”?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Compare the eye, which assimilate the light into your body with your heart assimilating the power of God’s Word into your life.
When it comes to your life in Christ, contrast a good eye with an evil eye.
What do the following references on eyes say to you? Psalm 101:3, 119:18, 37; 1 Samuel 16:7; Matthew 5:28; Proverbs 21:4; Ephesians 1:18.
Why do you think having one foot in the world and one foot in with the Lord causes you to be divided and not all in with the Lord even if you think you are?
Describe an undivided heart you want to have for the Lord.

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:22-24

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Week 8

Day 38

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 37 with the Lord)

Read the text: 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Describe these verses in your own words.
What does generosity mean to you?
Who is the most generous person you know? What do you want to emulate?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

What has been your attitude toward giving to others?
Besides giving money, in what other ways can you be generous?
How do you balance stewardships and generosity?
What more do the following references tell you about generosity? 1 John 3:16-18; Acts 20:35; Luke 11:13; Malachi 3:10-12.
In what ways do you want to live differently as a result of reflecting on generosity?

PDF FOR 2 CORINTHIANS 9:6-8

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Week 8

Day 39

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 38 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 6:25-34 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

Describe these verses in your own words.
What has worrying done to you? (Physically, emotionally, spiritually)
What do these verses tell you about God’s care for you?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

Find as many results of worrying as you can from these verses?
Find as many references to what God does for you from these verses?
Then write out the idea of this passage in your own words.
What do you understand to be the difference between being concerned and worrying about something or someone?
What more do the following references tell you about worrying? 1 John 4:18, 14:1; 2 Timothy 1:7; Joshua 1:9; Philippians 4:6-7; Proverbs 12:25.
Regarding worry and anxiety, what is it that you need to turn over or keep turning over to the Lord?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 6:25-34

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Week 8

Day 40

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 39 with the Lord)

Read the text: Proverbs 29:25 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Ask questions & interpret the context:

What do you think is the primary cause of anxiety/worry?
What do you tend to be fearful about?
How can you put Philippians 4:6-7 into practice?

Summarize: Now take a moment to go back and pour over your observations as well as your responses to the questions.

Engage with God: Bring your thoughts, questions, and desire for change to the Lord for his forgiveness, wisdom, correction, guidance, and direction.

Extra Questions To Consider

What is the Lord saying to your personally?
What do you need to pray about?
With whom does the Lord want you to share this devotional?
Who has the Lord placed on your heart to pray for and invite to church?

Digging Deeper

How has fear/worry gripped you in the past?
What things do you tend to worry about right now?
What does Proverbs 29:25 tell you about the Lord?
What more do the following references tell you about worry/anxiety? Proverbs 12:25; 13:4, 23:4; 3:5-6; Jeremiah 17:5-8.
Examine what David, Paul and Jesus did during times of distress? Psalm 34:4-6; 2 Corinthians 1: 8-10; Matthew 26:37-39.
Again, regarding worry and anxiety, what is it that you need to turn over or keep turning over to the Lord? (1 Peter 5:6-7)

PDF FOR PROVERBS 29:25

Matthew 7:1-5 Week 9 (Days 41-43)

Week 9

Day 41

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:1 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Why do you think this verse comes on the heals of chapter 6?
Why do you suppose we have a tendency to judge (or condemn) others?
Why do you think followers of Jesus need this exhortation?
Examine and reflect on these others references to judging others: Luke 6:37; James 1:26, 4:11-12; Romans 2:1-2, 12:16-19; John 8:7.
What do you see as the difference between scripture like John 7:24 and Matthew 7:1?
How do you want to live differently after reflecting on this issue of judging others, particularly in our current affairs?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:1

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Week 9

Day 42

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 41 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:2 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Christ has two measures by which He judged people: Justice and Mercy. Remember about how Christ has judged you as His child.
According to Matthew 26:6-13, In what ways do you see Jesus’ disciples breaking His command to not judge, in this case the woman, who came to anoint Jesus’ feet?
Examining these verses on judging others is not meant to bring about guilt, but to be determined to become more like Jesus. So what do you need to pray about? Why don’t you take a moment to do that right now and be renewed in His Spirit.
In light of this verse, how do you want to be known by others?
How do you plan to pursue the fruits of the Spirit? (Galatians 5:22-23)

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:2

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Week 9

Day 43

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from DAY 42 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:3-5 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

What would be “planks,” (or “beams”) in our hearts and minds that need removal?
Why are we, as followers of Jesus, still so blind to our own “4 x 4’s in our own eyes?”
Consider how Philippians 2:1-8 ties in with these verses.
Also consider how James 3:3-8 ties in with these verses.
How do you see godliness, gentleness and humility playing a role in verse 5, as it pertains to even being able to encourage others or help them remove their “specks?”
Draw a conclusion on the difference between coming alongside a friend or loved one versus simply passing judgment on him/her.(Galatians 6:1)
How do you want to live differently as a result of this study?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:3-5

Matthew 7:7-11 Week 10 (Days 44-48)

Week 10

Day 44

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for from your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:7 on Asking (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

What does it mean to you to be “asking” the Lord?
What can you learn about the concept of asking, even when you receive a “no” from the Lord?
Consider how James 4:2-3 ties in with “asking.”
Also consider how 1 John 5:14-15 ties in with “asking.”
What sort of things should you be asking for?
Read Isaiah 55:8-9 and come to an understanding of your prayer life in light of God’s responses to you.
How do you want to grow in Kingdom character?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:7 ON ASKING

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Week 10

Day 45

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 44 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:7 on Seeking (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

When you are seeking something, you’re looking for something or someone, or even devoting effort in reaching your desire or objectives. So, what do you think the Lord is asking you to “seek?”
Consider what the following references say about seeking: Matthew 11:28-30; Proverbs 8:17; Deuteronomy 4:29; Jeremiah 29:13; Psalm 22:26, 34:4-5, 69:32; Isaiah 40:31; 1 Chronicles 16:10.
What sort of things should you seeking?
In what way(s) does perseverance come into play as it pertains to “seeking?”
How do you want to grow in Kingdom character?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:7 ON SEEKING

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Week 10

Day 46

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 45 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:7 on Knocking (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

What does “knocking” mean to you?
What does an “open door” mean to you?
Consider what the following references say about knocking: Luke 12:36, 13:25-27; Revelation 3:8, 20; Acts 12:16, 14:27; 2 Corinthians 2:12; John 10:9; Colossians 4:3.
What sort of doors should you be knocking on?
How do you want to grow in Kingdom character?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:7 ON KNOCKING

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Week 10

Day 47

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 46 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:8 on Answering Our Prayers (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

How would differentiate between selfish prayers and Christ-centered prayers?
How would you avoid selfish prayers?
Consider what the following references lead to answered prayers: John 15:7; James 4:3; Mark 11:24.
From the following references why do you suppose the individuals’ prayers were answered in their favor? (Psalm 66:19, 116:1, 118:21; 1 Samuel 1:27).
Read John 5: 14-15 and consider what praying “in the lord’s will” looks like.
How do you want to grow in Kingdom character?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:8 ON ANSWERING OUR PRAYERS

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Week 10

Day 48

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 47 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:9-11 on Assurance of Right Answers (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Do you think God exercises good and right judgment in answering your prayers? Why or why not?
Compare His answers to prayers versus your responses to others (children, spouse, co-workers, employees, volunteers, etc.).
Consider what the following references on God’s character: 1 John 1:5, 4:8; Hebrews 13:8; James 1:17; Psalm 18:30; Isaiah 41:10; 1 Corinthians 10:13.
Therefore, what is it about God’s character that ought to motivate followers of Jesus to pray more?
How do you want to grow in Kingdom character?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:9-11 ON ASSURANCE OF RIGHT ANSWERS

Matthew 7:13-27 Week 11 (Days 49-53)

Week 11

Day 49

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for Your weekend with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:13 on the Wide Gate (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

Do you think the “gates” are referring just to “Heaven or Hell” (Saved or unsaved), or do you think the Lord is carrying it out much further?
In what way(s) do you understand how the following reference comes into play here: Luke 9:57-62.
What does the word, destruction, mean to you personally?
Why do you suppose this particular road is like a 4 or 5 lane freeway? What, in your mind, makes it so “easy?”
What steps do you feel you need to take to get off of the wide road that leads to the wide gate?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:13 ON THE WIDE GATE

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Week 11

Day 50

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 49 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:13-14 on the Narrow Gate (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

What do you think makes the narrow gate so narrow? Consider John 14:6.
Initially the narrow gate refers to salvation, but when you take in the whole council of Scripture, you’ll find that our life in Christ is much more than a ticket into Heaven (Salvation). What are your thoughts on that?
If following Jesus goes beyond initially being saved by His grace (Ephesians 2:8-9), then what is it that’s on the wide road that followers of Jesus need to rid themselves of?
What does the word, life, mean to you personally in the here and now?
Why do you suppose this particular road is like a backwoods country road? What, in your mind, makes it so difficult since it’s available for anyone?
What steps do you feel you need to take to get on the narrow road that leads through the narrow gate and beyond?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:13-14 ON THE NARROW GATE

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Week 11

Day 51

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 50 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:15-20 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

What kind of false prophets in sheep’s clothing do you observe/experience today? (2 Corinthians 11:14-15)
Why do you think these false prophets are actually “ferocious?”
It’s seems like verses 16-18 is similar to the phrase, “Actions speak louder than words.” What do you think as it pertains to verse 18?
Describe what “fruit” looks like?
In what ways do you feel you need to guard yourself against the “false prophets” in your world?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:15-20

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Week 11

Day 52

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 51 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:21-23 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

What are your initial thoughts about or reaction to these verses?
How would you describe the difference between being religious and being a Christ-follower?
What kind of disciple do you desire to be?
Read Matthew 22:37-39. How do you go about loving God and others?
What changes do you desire to make in your life as a result of studying this portion of Matthew?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:21-23

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Week 11

Day 53

Praise (Reflect on what you’re grateful for DAY 52 with the Lord)

Read the text: Matthew 7:24-27 (Jot down words that you want to reflect on)

What do you understand the rock and the sand representing?
How would you tie the following references into the “rock?” Luke 11:18; John 15:14; Romans 2:6-8; 2 John 1:6; Revelation 14:12. (Hint: Obedience)
How would you tie the following references into the “sand?” James 1:22-23; Romans 10:17; Hebrews 3:7-8; Luke 8:15, 11:28; Mark 4:20; John 10:27. (Hint: Hearing, but not doing)
What wisdom have you gleaned from studying this portion of Matthew as well as the whole Sermon on The Mount?

PDF FOR MATTHEW 7:24-27