Companion to the book
The Visual Gospel
Philip Leineweber
One image a day. See the word, sit with the key verse (ESV), then walk through the definition, reflection questions, gospel response, and prayer. Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible.
Day 1
Creation
Key verse · Genesis 1:26-27
Then God said, “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness. And let them have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of the heavens and over the livestock and over all the earth and over every creeping thing that creeps on the earth.” So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.
Definition
Creation is God making the whole world and everything in it. He made people in a special way so we could know, love, and reflect Him.
Memory Verse: Genesis 1:26-27
Reflection questions
- Reflect on the Augustine quote, “You have made us, O God, and our hearts are forever without rest till they find their rest in you.” How has this idea rung true in your life and experience?
- Why does the gospel begin in the garden? What were we, as God’s image and likeness, made for?
Gospel response
When you see beauty in the natural world, pause and thank God for His beautiful creation. Remember that you are His most prized handiwork, made in His image for relationship with Him.
Prayer
Creator God, Thank you for making me. I worship you as the almighty Creator of heaven and earth. Awaken me to the reality that I was made for you, to glorify, know, and enjoy you forever. Thank you for undoing what the fall and sin did through Jesus. Open my eyes to the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of the world. Amen.
Day 2
Love
Key verse · John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.
Definition
Love is God choosing to give of Himself for our good. It is God’s faithful commitment to rescue and restore. It is seen most clearly in God sending His Son, Jesus, to save sinners.
Memory Verse: John 3:16
Reflection questions
- What comes to your mind when you think about love?
- Read John 15:13. Reflect on how Jesus shows His love for us. How should this make us feel? How should this shape our hearts?
Gospel response
If you see a parent with their child today think of the unconditional love that parents have for their children. Think about how loving parents willingly sacrifice themselves for the sake of their kids and how God has this same kind of love for us.
Prayer
Loving Father, I praise you that you are loving. Thank you for demonstrating your love for me through Jesus. When I feel unwanted or unloved may I remember your great love for me. Thank you for adopting me into your family. Help me to see what kind of love the Father has given to me, that I should be called a child of God; and so I am (1 John 3:1). Amen.
Day 3
Mercy
Key verse · 1 Peter 1:3
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead
Definition
Mercy is God’s compassionate withholding of deserved judgment and His tender action toward helpless sinners. It is God’s desire to relieve the consequences of sin in those who deserve condemnation through Christ’s sacrifice.
Memory Verse: 1 Peter 1:3
Reflection questions
- Have you ever received radical mercy? How did this feel?
- Why is understanding the holiness, justice, and judgment of God essential to really seeing the beauty of God’s mercy?
Gospel response
Look for a piece of fruit today and think about how you deserved punishment and shame, rotten fruit thrown in your face in the public square. But then you received mercy. Give thanks to God for this wonderful gift.
Prayer
Merciful God, Thank you for the good news of mercy. Help me to remember today that because of Jesus I have it far better than I deserve. Strengthen me to extend this same mercy to others in my life who may sin against me. Amen.
Day 4
Grace
Key verse · Ephesians 2:8-9
For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast.
Definition
Grace is God’s unmerited favor freely given to sinners who deserve judgment, granting them salvation, forgiveness, and every spiritual blessing through Jesus Christ. It is not earned, deserved, or repaid; it flows from God’s sovereign goodness and love.
Memory Verse: Ephesians 2:8-9
Reflection questions
- What was the best gift you have ever received? What made it so meaningful?
- When was the first time you understood God’s grace? Are you still walking in the same thankfulness for it today?
Gospel response
Find something in your life that was given to you as a gift. Think about how the gospel is completely a work of God’s grace, it is a gift. It is not something deserved or earned but an unmerited kindness from your Creator.
Prayer
Gracious God, Your grace is more than enough for me. Thank you for pouring your grace upon me time and time again. Thank you for sending Jesus, the expression of your grace. Help me to see every blessing in my life as a work of your grace. Amen.
Day 5
Sin
Key verse · Romans 3:23
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.
Definition
Sin is any failure to conform to the moral law of God in act, attitude, or nature, whether by doing what God forbids or failing to do what He commands.
Memory Verse: Romans 3:23
Reflection questions
- Think about when you were a young child. What were some of your first experiences of guilt and shame for your sinfulness?
- How can guilt and shame be a mercy from God that can point us to our need for Jesus? (See Romans 2:15)
- How does God respond to those who come to Him with an attitude of self-righteousness instead of remorse for their sin? (See Luke 18:9-14)
Gospel response
Read 1 John 1:7-10. Spend some time intentionally confessing wrongful thoughts, attitudes, words and actions. Trust God’s promise that when we confess our sin He forgives and cleanses.
Prayer
Father God, Have mercy on me, a sinner. Make me more aware of the darkness in my heart and my own sinfulness. Bring a godly sorrow that leads to repentance in my life. Forgive me for my sinful acts, attitudes, and thoughts. Forgive me for minimizing my sin, as if it is not that big of a deal. Thank you that you came to save me from my sin. Amen.
Day 6
Depravity
Key verse · Ephesians 2:1-2
And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked
Definition
Depravity refers to the deep corruption of human nature due to sin, resulting in our inability to please God, understand spiritual truth rightly, or come to Him apart from His grace.
Memory Verse: Ephesians 2:1-2
Reflection questions
- God’s Word speaks of unbelievers being “blinded” to spiritual truth (2 Corinthians 4:4). Think back on this experience before you met Jesus . What was it like to be unable to see the things of God clearly?
- Read Romans 6:4-5. What was the state of our lives before Jesus? How does our story mirror the resurrection of Jesus?
Gospel response
Next time you see a cemetery, reflect on all the people who have been laid to rest there. Spiritually, this is who we were before Jesus raises us to new life. Give thanks that though once you were dead, now you are alive!
Prayer
Father of Lights, Thank you for finding me on the ocean floor. I praise you for shining light into the darkness of my life. Help me to remember that my salvation and new life are completely a work of your Spirit who brought me to life in the midst of my sin. May I walk today in this newness of life, may I walk as a child of the light. Amen.
Day 7
Wrath
Key verse · Romans 1:18
For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men…
Definition
The wrath of God is His holy revulsion against sin and His just judgment against sinners who rebel against His righteous standards.
Memory Verse: Romans 1:18
Reflection questions
- Why do many doubt a God who has wrath for sin? Why is a loving and forgiving God easier for many people to accept than a God who cannot tolerate the presence of sin?
- Read John 2:13-17. How does Jesus’ response to the desecration of the temple, a holy place of worship, help us see and understand in a concrete way God’s wrath toward sin?
Gospel response
Gaze up at the sky today and when you see a cloud reflect on the storm of God’s wrath that was approaching you before Christ. Give thanks that Jesus satisfied the wrath of God for sinners who receive Him.
Prayer
Father God, Thank you for sending your Son, Jesus, to satisfy your wrath for my sin. Help me to see you as holy and glorious and to understand the depths of my sin and its offense against you. Give me boldness to encourage those who are far from you to flee from the wrath to come and run to you for deliverance. Amen.
Day 8
Judgment
Key verse · Hebrews 9:27
And just as it is appointed for man to die once, and after that comes judgment.
Definition
Judgment is God fairly judging every person’s life and giving what is due according to His holy and righteous standard . For those apart from Jesus the verdict is always guilty, resulting in eternal punishment.
Memory Verse: Hebrews 9:27
Reflection questions
- What comes to your mind when you think of the coming judgment? How does this make you feel?
- Read Hebrews 4:12-16. Contrast the reality of being exposed as guilty before God’s perfect judgment with the truth that we can have confidence to approach God’s throne of grace through Jesus, our perfect High Priest?
Gospel response
Next time you sit in a chair, reflect on Christ sitting in the judge’s seat. Remember that in spite of His perfect knowledge of all of your sin, the case has been dismissed because His blood has cleansed us and the penalty has been paid.
Prayer
Father God, Thank you that I no longer need to fear the coming judgment. I thank you that I have an Advocate, Jesus Christ the Righteous. Thank you for forgiving me for my sin and trespasses because of Jesus. Help me to live for you and stand in the righteousness of Christ. Amen.
Day 9
Condemnation
Key verse · John 3:18
Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe is condemned already, because he has not believed in the name of the only Son of God.
Definition
Condemnation is God’s judicial verdict of guilt for sinners, resulting in the sentence of judgment and eternal separation from God. It is the opposite of justification.
Memory Verse: John 3:18
Reflection questions
- When was a time where you were found guilty or shown to be at fault? How did it feel?
- Read Romans 8:1. How does this truth that there is no condemnation for the believer change how you relate to God?
Gospel response
When you close a door today, remember that apart from Christ the jail cell door was slammed shut. There was a closed door of separation between you and God forever. Rejoice that the door has been opened, the jail sentence has already been served by Jesus on your behalf.
Prayer
Father God, Thank you for freeing me from the condemnation I deserved, for becoming forsaken on the cross so that I could be set free. Help me to walk in freedom not in condemnation. Silence the voice of the “accuser of the brethren” in my life. Though I was unrighteous, guilty, and condemned you have called me righteous. You have set me free. Thank you, my Savior! Amen.
Day 10
Incarnation
Key verse · John 1:14
And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth.
Definition
The incarnation is the act of the second person of the Trinity, the eternal Son of God, assuming a full and true human nature, becoming fully God and fully man in one person, Jesus Christ, to accomplish the work of redemption.
Memory Verse: John 1:14
Reflection questions
- What is your favorite thing about Christmas?
- How does the gospel start in the manger? Read Matthew 1:21. How was Jesus’ purpose made clear even before His birth?
Gospel response
When you see a small child or an infant today give thanks that Jesus came into the world, that He put on human flesh, to become our perfect mediator and savior.
Prayer
Father God, Thank you for coming into this world to save us. Thank you for humbling yourself to the point where you put on human flesh for a sinner such as me. Thank you for how Jesus demonstrates your love and desire to have a relationship with me, to be Immanuel, “God with me.” Help me to walk in an awareness of your nearness today. Amen.
Day 11
Gospel
Key verse · Luke 2:10-11
And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’
Definition
The gospel is the good news of what God has done in Jesus Christ to save sinners through His life, death, resurrection, and exaltation, calling all people to repent and believe for forgiveness of sins and eternal life.
Memory Verse: Luke 2:10-11
Reflection questions
- What is the best news you have ever received?
- How does understanding the gospel as good news bring light into the darkness of your life? Who can you share the good news of Jesus with today?
Gospel response
When you see the “news” today whether on a screen, on social media, or in a newspaper, remember the best news that humanity ever received, the good news of Jesus.
Prayer
Good God Above, Thank you for the good news of Jesus. Thank you that where sin abounded in my life and in the world, grace abounded all the more through your Son, Jesus Christ. Help me to boldly proclaim this good news in my life. Help me to not be ashamed of the gospel and remember that it is the power of God for salvation. Thank you for saving me through Jesus. Amen.
Day 12
Salvation
Key verse · Romans 1:16
For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes...
Definition
Salvation is the gracious and sovereign act of God in which He rescues sinners from sin and judgment through faith in Jesus Christ, restores them to fellowship with Himself, and grants them eternal life by the power of His Spirit.
Memory Verse: Romans 1:16
Reflection questions
- What were you “drowning” in before you met Jesus? What are some of the things you were saved from?
- Read Psalm 18:1-19. In what ways does your experience of salvation mirror David’s?
Gospel response
Go to a body of water today, and if you can see a boat even better! Remember your condition before you were saved, being lost at sea. Give thanks for your salvation as you gaze out at the water.
Prayer
My Savior, Thank you for saving me. I was lost and you found me. I was drowning in my sin and you pulled me out. You are my Savior and I am trusting in you alone for salvation. I praise you and you alone. May I tell the story of you saving me today, boldly proclaiming the gospel of salvation to all who will listen. Amen.
Day 13
Atonement
Key verse · 1 Peter 2:24
He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed.
Definition
Atonement is the once-for-all work of Christ in His life and sacrificial death in which He, as our substitute, bore the penalty of sin, satisfied God’s wrath, fulfilled the demands of divine justice, and reconciled sinners to God securing redemption for all who believe.
Memory Verse: 1 Peter 2:24
Reflection questions
- Have you ever covered up a mistake or something wrong that you did? Did anyone ever find out?
- How does Isaiah 1:18 help us understand the extent of the atonement in our lives?
Gospel response
Grab a piece of paper, pencil, and an eraser. Lightly write some sins that come to your mind in your life or past on the paper then erase them completely and reflect on the power of the atonement of Christ, the Lamb of God, whose blood covers and cleanses you from all your sin.
Prayer
Just and Righteous God, Thank you for offering the sacrifice of your Son in my place. Thank you that his blood is enough to cover all my sins; that though my sins were as scarlet you have washed them white as snow (Isaiah 1:18). Thank you for atoning for my sin. Amen.
Day 14
Propitiation
Key verse · 1 John 2:2
He is the propitiation for our sins, and not for ours only but also for the sins of the whole world.
Definition
Propitiation is the act by which God’s just wrath against sin is fully satisfied through a sacrificial substitute, Jesus Christ, so that God’s favor and forgiveness can be extended to sinners.
Memory Verse: 1 John 2:2
Reflection questions
- Was there ever a time where you received a punishment or consequence for something you didn’t do? How did that feel?
- Read Exodus 34:6-7. How is God described? How does God’s mercy and justice find their perfect fulfillment in Jesus’ going to the cross to propitiate for our sin?
Gospel response
Next time you see a storm with lightning and thunder, remember the wrath of God that Jesus absorbed on your behalf. Praise God for the sufficiency of Jesus’ work on the cross on your behalf.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, Thank you for sending your Son as a substitute for me. I deserved that cross. I deserved your wrath. I deserved to be forsaken. Thank you, Jesus, for taking my place. Thank you for dying so that I can live. May I never forget the wondrous cross. Amen.
Day 15
Justification
Key verse · Romans 3:24
And are justified by his grace as a gift, through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus
Definition
Justification is the judicial act of God in which he declares sinners righteous in His sight, not on the basis of their works, but solely on the basis of Christ’s righteousness imputed to them and received by faith alone.
Memory Verse: Romans 3:24
Reflection questions
- In what ways do we try to justify ourselves before God? Why does this always fail?
- Read Romans 8:31-38. How does justification affect our relationship to God?
Gospel response
Look for a courthouse or a desk today. When you see it, reflect on the legal decree of “not guilty” being made on your behalf because of Jesus. Give thanks that because of justification you can stand righteous before God.
Prayer
Righteous God, Thank you for justifying me through Jesus. Thank you that I no longer need to fear condemnation. Help me to daily walk in the confidence that nothing can separate me from the love of Christ. May the reality of my justification silence the accusations of the enemy. Amen.
Day 16
Mediation
Key verse · 1 Timothy 2:5-6
For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all…
Definition
Mediation is the work of Jesus Christ, the God-man, by which He stands between God and sinful humanity as the only representative who reconciles the two by His atoning death and ongoing intercession as our Great High Priest.
Memory Verse: 1 Timothy 2:5-6
Reflection questions
- Can you think of a time you were in the role of mediator in your family, with friends, or in a work setting? How did you seek to represent both sides?
- What is the significance of Jesus becoming a man, taking on human flesh, in his work of mediation?
Gospel response
If you see a bridge today, consider the work of Christ on the cross that bridged the gap between us, undeserving sinners, and a holy God. Approach God’s throne of grace in prayer confidently, knowing that Jesus is the perfect Mediator.
Prayer
Holy God, I am unworthy to approach you in and of myself. Thank you for sending your one and only Son, Jesus, to make a way back to you. Thank you, Jesus, for dying on the cross for me so that I can have full communion with God. Thank you for bridging the gap, for mediating a new and better covenant with your blood. Amen.
Day 17
Redemption
Key verse · Ephesians 1:7
In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace
Definition
Redemption is God’s gracious act of purchasing and freeing His people from slavery to sin, death, and judgment through the payment of Christ’s blood, securing their release and restoration to Him.
Memory Verse: Ephesians 1:7
Reflection questions
- What is the greatest debt you ever owed? How would it have felt if someone else came along and paid it completely off?
- “Redemption is free, but it is not cheap.” Reflect on this truth. What was the cost of our redemption?
Gospel response
Look for an opportunity to pay for someone's bill or do something that is usually another’s responsibility. Do so as anonymously as you can manage. Give thanks that Christ paid the price we owed even when we were dead in our sin.
Prayer
My Redeemer, Thank you for paying the price that I owed. Thank you for purchasing my life with your blood. Help me to live in constant awareness of your sacrifice for me. May I never become entitled or ungrateful but rather walk in gratitude every day. Amen.
Day 18
Reconciliation
Key verse · Colossians 1:19-20
For in him all the fullness of God was pleased to dwell, and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross.
Definition
Reconciliation is God ending the war and separation our sin created by the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ, and granting us lasting peace with Himself.
Memory Verse: Colossians 1:19-20
Reflection questions
- Have you ever been in conflict with someone and then had the conflict peacefully resolve? How did that feel when the tension was removed?
- Read Romans 5:10. In what ways were you an enemy of God before Christ? How are we reconciled to God?
Gospel response
When you see a wall or a fence today remember that Jesus tore down that dividing wall between us and God the Father. Praise Him for reconciling us to our Maker.
Prayer
God of peace, I praise you for sending your Son to reconcile me to yourself. Thank you for forsaking Jesus so I could be brought near. Thank you for sending the Prince of Peace to fix my relationship with you forever. May I continue to draw near to you every day through Jesus, the Reconciler. Amen.
Day 19
Forgiveness
Key verse · Colossians 1:14
In whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Definition
Forgiveness is the gracious act of God by which He fully pardons sinners of their guilt, cancels their debt of sin, and no longer holds their transgressions against them because of Christ’s work on the cross.
Memory Verse: Colossians 1:14
Reflection questions
- How is God’s forgiveness different then how we as fallen humans normally forgive?
- Read Psalm 103:12. When God forgives, what is the extent of His forgiveness?
Gospel response
Next time you make a payment or pay a bill, stop and tell God how grateful you are for His forgiving your debt of sin through the blood of Jesus.
Prayer
Forgiving God, Thank you for paying my debt. Thank you that I am free from the debt of sin I owed. Help me to walk in the reality of your total forgiveness of my sin through Jesus. Strengthen me to forgive others who sin against me in the same way you have forgiven me (Ephesians 4:32). Thank you for your mercy and grace. Amen.
Day 20
Covenant
Key verse · Hebrews 9:15
Therefore he is the mediator of a new covenant, so that those who are called may receive the promised eternal inheritance, since a death has occurred that redeems them from the transgressions committed under the first covenant.
Definition
A covenant is a divinely established, binding relationship in which God commits Himself to His people with promises and often confirms it with signs and blood.
Memory Verse: Hebrews 9:15
Reflection questions
- How does the unconditional nature of the new covenant, its being based entirely on the blood of Jesus shed for us, free us from guilt, shame, and dread even when we fail?
- How do the promises of God in Christ relate to wedding vows? What promises given in the new covenant can you hold tightly to today? (Example: Hebrews 13:5)
Gospel response
The next time you partake in the Lord’s Supper, intentionally reflect on the new covenant. Give thanks for the blood of Christ which has washed away your sin and established your relationship with God forever through covenant.
Prayer
Now may the God of peace who brought again from the dead the Lord Jesus, the great shepherd of the sheep, by the blood of the eternal covenant, equip me with everything good that I may do his will, working in me that which is pleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. (Hebrews 13:20-21) Amen.
Day 21
Regeneration
Key verse · Titus 3:5
He saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit.
Definition
Regeneration is being born again through the Holy Spirit. It is a supernatural work of God in which a spiritually dead person is made alive.
Memory Verse: Titus 3:5
Reflection questions
- When you came to know Christ what was your experience of coming alive? What changed when you were regenerated?
- Read 2 Corinthians 5:17. What old things, those characteristics of the old dead man, do you need to put off? What new things, fruits of the Spirit, do you need to put on?
Gospel response
Look for a dead or dying tree or plant today. When you find one, remember who you were before you were made alive through the work of the Spirit. Give thanks for the gospel that has given you new life in Christ!
Prayer
Awesome God, Thank you for sending your Spirit and raising me to new life. Thank you for changing me, for opening my eyes to see Jesus. Thank you for transforming me and giving me a new nature. I thank you that I have been born again! Amen.
Day 22
Sealing
Key verse · Ephesians 1:13
In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit
Definition
Sealing is the divine act by which the Holy Spirit marks believers as God’s own possession, guarantees their future inheritance, and secures them for salvation.
Memory Verse: Ephesians 1:13
Reflection questions
- In what ways does the sealing of the Holy Spirit help us know that we are safe, belonging to God forever?
- Read Philippians 1:6. How does the work of the Spirit in sealing and indwelling guarantee this promise?
Gospel response
Next time you sign your signature on something, remember the signet ring by which you were sealed. Give thanks that God the Father sealed you with His Holy Spirit, claiming you as His forever.
Prayer
Father God, Thank you for sending your Spirit into my life as a guarantee that I am yours. When the Spirit convicts me of sin, help me to confess it and by the power of the Spirit go and sin no more. I thank you that my being safe in your family does not depend on my performance, but it is safely secured and upheld by the Spirit. I thank you that I am kept and held by you. Amen.
Day 23
Adoption
Key verse · Ephesians 1:4-5
In love he predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will
Definition
Adoption means God welcomes believers into His family as dear children, giving us full rights and love as heirs in Christ.
Memory Verse: Ephesians 1:4-5
Reflection questions
- How does being a child of God increase your sense of belonging?
- In what ways should viewing other Christians as part of your eternal family change how you respond to conflict?
- When you feel lonely or unwanted, how does the doctrine of adoption tell our hearts a different story?
Gospel response
When you pray this week make an intentional effort to pray to God as Father, remembering that He has adopted you into His family.
Prayer
Father God, Thank you for adopting me into your family as Your child. Help me to remember who I am and what I have waiting for me as an heir in your kingdom. Help me to walk as a child of light in this world of darkness. May I see other Christians as my brothers and sisters. Would you increase my love for Your church, the family of God. Thank you for caring for me as a good, good Father. Amen.
Day 24
Rescue
Key verse · Colossians 1:13
He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son He loves.
Definition
Rescue (or deliverance) is God saving people from danger , freeing them from sin, evil, and judgment, both now and forever through Jesus.
Memory Verse: Colossians 1:13
Reflection questions
- Who or what were some of the threats that God rescued you from?
- Who is someone who you know who is enslaved in their sin in the domain of darkness? Pray that God would deliver them through the gospel.
Gospel response
Light a candle, firepit or fireplace today. As you look at the flames, visualize the burning house you were trapped in from which Jesus rescued you. Give thanks that though you were without hope He broke through and delivered you.
Prayer
My Deliverer, Thank you for pulling me out of the flames, for delivering me from the domain of darkness. You are my rescuer. Help me to rely on you even today amid temptation to deliver me from evil. Protect me and preserve me as I cling to you. Amen.
Day 25
Faith
Key verse · Romans 5:1
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Definition
Faith is trusting Jesus alone to save you and relying on Him instead of yourself.
Memory Verse: Romans 5:1
Reflection questions
- In what areas of your life might you be relying on "good works" or religious activities instead of faith alone?
- What steps can you take today to deepen your reliance on God, especially if doubt or self-reliance creeps in?
Gospel response
When you sit in a chair today, give thanks that God is holding you. Rejoice that Jesus can bear the weight of your sin as you trust in Him.
Prayer
God, Thank you for saving me. Thank you for opening my eyes to trust in you alone for the forgiveness of sin. Help me to walk by faith. Forgive me for self-reliance and self-righteousness. Remove any doubts from my heart and mind. Help me to trust you completel y as my solid rock. May I rest confidently in you today. Amen.
Day 26
Repentance
Key verse · Mark 1:15
The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel.
Definition
Repentance is the turning of a sinner away from sin and toward God, involving a change of mind, heart, and direction of life.
Memory Verse: Mark 1:15
Reflection questions
- In what areas of your life are you experiencing a godly sorrow that leads to repentance? How can you foster godly sorrow for your sin? (See 2 Corinthians 7:10)
- How does the gospel of repentance of sin differ from the easy believism that is prominent among many Christians today?
Gospel response
As you drive or ride around today think of the U-turn that God calls everyone to make, turning from their sin and to the Savior, for the forgiveness of their sins.
Prayer
God, I praise you that you are a merciful God, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. Thank you for your patience with me. Convict me of sin in my life and may I, today, bear fruit in keeping with repentance. When I find myself today walking the wrong direction in my thoughts, attitudes, words, or deeds, strengthen me to turn around and to run to you. Thank you for always meeting me there on the path of repentance with love and grace in your eyes. Amen.
Day 27
Sanctification
Key verse · 1 Corinthians 6:11
And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God.
Definition
Sanctification means God has set you apart as holy and His, and now He is making you more like Jesus.
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 6:11
Reflection questions
- What is the difference between positional and progressive sanctification? How do you think understanding your identity in Christ as a saint (holy one) is instrumental in helping us become more like Jesus?
- What things in your life are unholy? Commit today to “take off” these garments of the sin and flesh and to “put on” the Lord Jesus Christ.
Gospel response
When you put on clothes today remember the holiness of Christ in which you have already been clothed. Give thanks that your identity is not based on your performance.
Prayer
God, Thank you for sanctifying me. I am trusting that you, who began a good work in me, will bring it to completion. May I live out my new status as a saint, a holy child of God. May I remember that my position before you has been established through the work of Jesus and by the power of the Holy Spirit. Help me to live as who I am and who you have called me. Sanctify me today in your truth (John 17:17). Amen.
Day 28
Hope
Key verse · Hebrews 6:19
We have this as a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul, a hope that enters into the inner place behind the curtain.
Definition
Hope is the confident expectation of future good, grounded in the promises of God and secured by the finished work of Jesus Christ.
Memory Verse: Hebrews 6:19
Reflection questions
- How does our response to trials and suffering reveal where our hope lies? Are you clinging to the gospel of hope?
- Read Ephesians 1:11-21. What is the role of hope in the Christian life? How are faith and hope related?
Gospel response
Whenever you see a rock today think of Jesus, the solid rock to whom you are anchored. Remember that you are safe and secure, kept by God, in the storms of life.
Prayer
God, Thank you for saving me and giving me a new hope. Help me to keep eternity on my mind, to remember that good is coming because of Jesus. May I cling to hope and may it abound in my soul today. May it be evident to others and may I be ready to give a reason for the hope that is in me (1 Peter 3:15). Help me to remain in you today, to be firmly anchored to Christ. Amen.
Day 29
Glorification
Key verse · 1 Corinthians 15:42-43
So is it with the resurrection of the dead. What is sown is perishable; what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness; it is raised in power.
Definition
Glorification is the wonderful moment when Jesus returns and God instantly makes every Christian completely perfect, like Jesus Himself, with no more sin, pain, weakness, or death, so we can live with Him forever in glory.
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:42-43
Reflection questions
- What are some of the hardships, temptations, and realities of living in this fallen world that you eagerly anticipate leaving behind when you enter glory?
- How should our identity as citizens of heaven change how we live in this life? (See Philippians 3:20-21)
Gospel response
When you see jewelry today, think of the precious and flawless glorification we will experience at the coming of Christ.
Prayer
Glorious God, Thank you for the promise of glory. Help me to expectantly wait and anticipate this transformation into the image of Christ. When this world gets hard, may I remember the end of this story, being made like you forever. Thank you, that you will finish the work of salvation that you have begun in me on that day. Amen.
Day 30
Election
Key verse · Ephesians 1:3-4
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places, even as he chose us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him.
Definition
Election is God’s choice, made before the world began, to save people through Jesus, not because they earned it or were better than others, but because of His love and mercy.
Memory Verse: Ephesians 1:3-4
Reflection questions
- How does knowing that God is in control and is the Author of our story give us peace in the midst of the storms of life?
- In Revelation 3:5, we’re told that those in Christ cannot have their names erased from the Lamb’s Book of Life. How does that truth strengthen your assurance?
Gospel response
When you see a book today, remember that if you have believed in Christ your name is written safe and secure as the redeemed of the Lord! Give thanks that you belong to the Lamb.
Prayer
Sovereign God, Thank you that you get glory through redemption. Thank you for saving me according to your mercy and grace. May I boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ, declaring the praises of the one who called me out of darkness and into your marvelous light. You alone deserve the glory and honor and praise in my life. Thank you for the good news of Jesus, my Savior and Lord. Amen.