Daily Devotion Scriptures

Each evening, we gather as a group and take turns sharing a devotion of either a verse or something pressing on our heart that day. We also discuss the successes or frustrations of the day and mentally prepare for the next day. It's one of my FAVORITE parts of the trip, and has inspired me to start attending Christ Fellowships young adult group J1Ten. I realized over this week how important it is to be surrounded by friends walking the same path in life as you. I love studying the Word with my peers and praying for one another, as well as have a lot of good, clean fun!

  James 1:2-3
"Dear Brothers and Sister, when troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow." Short and sweet from our sweet Dana....reminding us that God didn't promise an easy life, but through faith He will get us through any troubles and joy will come in the end

 Isaiah 40:31 "Even youths will become weak and tired, and young men will fall in exhaustion. But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength."

  Philippians 4:12
"I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little" Shared by Devin Cornwell....reflecting on how little the Haitian people have, but how they still make due and live a grateful life. This trip always puts our lives and our selfishness into perspective. I admit I have WAY more than I could ever truly need or use. Americans live in excess. But, we were also reminded by Michelle that God doesn't want us to feel guilty for having more money or materials...He blesses people in different ways. The important thing is to use your blessings and gifts to help others and bless others.

  Philippians 4:13 My life's scripture "For I can do everything through Christ who gives me strength" Yes...this was my devotion...and it was NOT short. I appreciate your patience as I preached my first entire sermon. The English teacher in me broke it into three sections. I made three major points
 1. All Things not just the things WE want to do. God calls us to do things that are out of our comfort zone. But with HIS strength and guidance, we CAN do all things. Our things, God things, ALL things
 2. Through Christ We can't get through this human existence without Christ. We need him in the everyday tasks as well as the big stuff. Christ is in us as soon as we accept Him into our hearts. We are to be His hands and feet, but cannot do that unless He is IN us and Through us. This speaks to me loud and clear when we go to the Mother Theresa House for terminally ill children and adults. Kate could not possibly have the emotional strength to go to such a depressing place, but God working THROUGH me allows me to gladly go year after year.
 3. Strength Here I shared a personal story about when I hit rock bottom in my life and God pulled me out. He gave me the strength to continue. It's not all about emotional strength, physical strength, but there is social strength as well. I had the first two under control, but needed His strength to face people whom I felt would judge me and my poor decisions. But with Christ working THROUGH me and giving me STRENGTH, it was all POSSIBLE!

  James 4 (not sure which verse was shared....I will update this once I get the correct verse)

  Isaiah 52:7 "How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who bring good news, the good news of peace and salvation , the news that the God of Israel reigns!"
 I believe Bren shared this reflecting on what it honor it is to carry the message of God in a way that is loving and of service. We aren't standing on a soap box preaching. We aren't asking anyone to convert to our religion. We are loving on those who are in need. We are bringing smiles to people who need to be lifted up. There are many ways to be a Godly example without always preaching or evangelizing. I personally am not blessed with the skill of sharing the gospel, but I'm great at loving on children and sharing hugs and smiles.

  1 Thessalonians 2:4 For we speak as messengers approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He alone examines the motives of our hearts." Saving the best for last, little Josh, sharing a powerful Word. When I think of God trusting ME to share His love and his good word is just beyond amazing. I am full of sin and regret. I am not proud of my past. Yet God looks past that and sees my heart and Trusts me do this work each summer. What a blessing and honor.