27 / Insulated

JESUS ANSWERED HIM, “IT IS ALSO WRITTEN: ‘DO NOT PUT THE LORD YOUR GOD TO THE TEST.’” —MATTHEW 4:7

Warm-Up:

Pray:

“Lord, why am I uncomfortable with tears and suffering? Why am I so put out by my current situation? Have my circumstances derailed my pursuit of happiness? I can’t deny that things are not right with the world— without love, without faith, without sacrifice, without Jesus. It was a lot easier to keep my faith when I didn’t have to face difficulty or suffering. I didn’t want to learn the language of lamenting. But many have suffered for much longer than me. I admit that I have become insulated from my brothers and sisters who are hurting. Help me carry their burdens. May I never lose touch with the reality of the brokenness of my world.”

Round 1:

read psalm 46 and circle/write down/highlight the parts that stand out to you most. It’s a good one.

Round 2:

who do you know that you can pray for? Write down at least 5 names in your journal (and how you can pray for them).

Round 3:

Set a timer for 5 minutes and pray for each name you wrote out:

Pray:

“God, I stand in the gap between the mess of life and Your grace and intervention for [Name]. Help me empathize with what they are facing. May I be slow to solve and quick to see You with them.”

Burn Out:

Carry someone else’s burden today. Find a post-it note, notecard or small piece of paper and write down the names you listed in Round 2. Carry these names with you today. Each time you see it, let it remind you to pray for those on you list.

If you are wanting to strengthen your faith in community, plus get bonus thoughts, join the Soul Workouts Community on Facebook:

All this week:

If you or someone you know needs assistance, needs to talk, or needs to pray with someone please text the Second Place Church team at 708-866-0092. We are in this together!