The Power of Divine Grace
Devotional
Have you ever felt like you're drifting back to old habits after a spiritual high? The disciples faced a similar situation after Jesus's resurrection. Instead of continuing their mission, they returned to their familiar fishing boats. Yet, in this moment of wavering commitment, Jesus demonstrated His extraordinary grace. He didn't abandon them or scold them - He sought them out. This reveals a profound truth about God's character: He pursues us even when we stray from our path. His grace isn't earned by our perfect performance; it flows from His boundless love. Today, you might feel like you've let God down or drifted from your spiritual commitments. Remember, His grace remains constant, reaching out to meet you exactly where you are.
Bible Verse
"When these things were done, Jesus showed himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and in this way He showed Himself." - John 21:1
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life do you need to recognize and embrace God's pursuing grace today?
Sermon Quote
Grace is always in spite of, not because of. Whenever God moves in grace, it's always in spite of, not because of.
Prayer
Lord, thank you for your relentless grace that pursues me even when I drift. Help me to embrace your love and respond to your gentle calling. Amen.
Have a Great Day!
Always remember that the Great Shepherd loves the sheep!
Bro Chad
The Pursuit of Complete Obedience
Devotional
Sometimes we convince ourselves that doing most of what God asks is good enough. We might attend church regularly but hesitate to serve. Or perhaps we read our Bible but resist sharing our faith. The disciples faced a similar temptation when they partially followed Jesus's instructions. However, God calls us to complete, not partial, obedience. When we choose to follow God selectively, we miss out on the fullness of His blessings and purpose for our lives. True discipleship isn't about checking boxes or meeting minimum requirements - it's about surrendering every aspect of our lives to His lordship.
Bible Verse
"Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, to the mountain which Jesus had appointed for them." - Matthew 28:16
Reflection Question
What areas of partial obedience might God be calling you to fully surrender to Him?
Sermon Quote
Partial obedience is total disobedience to what He asks us to do.
Prayer
Father, reveal to me where I'm holding back in my obedience. Give me the courage to follow You completely, not partially. Amen.
Have a Great Day!
Always remember that the Great Shepherd loves the sheep!
Bro Chad
The Necessity of Divine Power
Devotional
In our self-sufficient world, it's tempting to rely on our own strength and abilities. The disciples learned this lesson through their empty fishing nets - despite their professional expertise, their human efforts proved futile. Only when Jesus intervened did their nets overflow with fish. This powerful demonstration reminds us that true success in God's kingdom isn't achieved through human capability alone. Whether we're raising children, building a marriage, or serving in ministry, our efforts must be empowered by His presence and strength.
Bible Verse
"I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing." - John 15:5
Reflection Question
Where in your life are you trying to succeed through your own strength rather than relying on God's power?
Sermon Quote
Those kids you're trying to raise, that marriage that you're trying to save, that habit or that addiction that you're trying to kick... It may be difficult with the Lord's help, but it is impossible without His help.
Prayer
Lord, help me release my self-reliance and lean fully on Your strength. Show me how to access Your power in every area of my life. Amen.
Have a Great Day!
Always remember that the Great Shepherd loves the sheep!
Bro Chad
The Joy of Divine Fellowship
Devotional
After the miraculous catch of fish, Jesus invited His disciples to breakfast on the shore. This simple yet profound moment of fellowship reveals God's desire for intimate relationship with His followers. He doesn't just want our service - He wants our company. When we commune with Jesus, we discover that He is not just our Lord, but also our friend. This daily fellowship transforms our perspective, helping us realize that He is everything we need. Our service then flows naturally from this relationship, rather than from obligation or duty.
Bible Verse
"This beginning of signs Jesus did in Cana of Galilee, and manifested His glory; and His disciples believed in Him." - John 2:11
Reflection Question
How can you create more intentional time for fellowship with Jesus in your daily routine?
Sermon Quote
When you have fellowship with Jesus, He wants to show you something too.
Prayer
Jesus, thank you for desiring fellowship with me. Help me prioritize our relationship above all else. Amen.
Have a Great Day!
Always remember that the Great Shepherd loves the sheep!
Bro Chad
PS: Today is National Day of Prayer! Spend some time praying for our nation, state, and local governments. schools, churches, law enforcement and EMS, firefighters and each other!
The Secret of Sustainable Service
Devotional
Maintaining spiritual momentum beyond special occasions like Easter requires understanding a fundamental truth: we can do nothing of eternal value without God, but He can do anything with or without us. This humbling reality actually brings freedom. We're not called to be successful in our own strength, but faithful in remaining connected to Him. When we grasp this truth, our service becomes sustainable because it's powered by His strength, not ours. We find joy in serving because we're simply vessels for His work, not the source of the power.
Bible Verse
"Then Peter said, 'Silver and gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.'" - Acts 3:6
Reflection Question
How does recognizing your complete dependence on God change your approach to serving Him?
Sermon Quote
The fact is that we cannot do anything without God, but God can do anything with us or without us.
Prayer
Father, help me remember that You are the source of all good things. Let me serve from a place of dependence on You, not self-reliance. Amen.
Have a Great Day!
Always remember that the Great Shepherd loves the sheep!
Bro Chad
961826
Anacoco First Baptist Church
4813 Port Arthur Ave, Anacoco, La 71403, US