Luke 11
January 17, 2022
“If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in Heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him!”
I’m very aware of the fact that I’m not a perfect dad. In fact, Jesus, never one to pull punches, calls me ‘evil.’ While that might initially sting my pride, I know He’s right. My every desire and decision at every moment of the day is not aligned with the Lord’s perfect ways. Nevertheless, I (even I) want the best for my kids; I (even I) am willing to sacrifice for their good. So (according to the logic of Jesus) how much more gracious, generous, and giving will my Father in Heaven (who is perfect) be toward me.
God, thank You for being a Perfect Father, who always has my best interest at heart. Forgive me for not seeing You as the all generous, gracious Dad that You are, and for not being quick to ‘ask You for whatever I need’ (v9-10). You not only promise the Holy Spirit (v12); You’ve given Him to me through Christ! Having given me Yourself, then, how much more can I trust You to provide my ‘daily bread’ needs (v3). And so, Father, I do ask You now, to give me wisdom - to lead my family and church family; to give me love - so that I love like You - being willing to sacrifice personal preferences; and to give me courage - to be a witness in every opportunity to speak for You - whether in preaching or in conversation. Thank You, in advance, Lord, for giving me what I need!
— Pastor Joshua Brooks
Use the following steps to guide your daily time with the Lord…
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Start with prayer. Ask God to open your heart to help you understand and receive His Word.
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Read and observe the passage carefully. As needed, read a second Bible version to help with understanding.
➡️ What does it say?
What does this passage teach me about God? What does it say about my sinful nature and my need for God’s grace? How does this passage point to Jesus?
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➡️ What am I going to do about it?
Does this passage include a promise to claim, an action/attitude to avoid/embrace, or a principle to apply? How can this truth apply to my life? What could my next step be? How can I share this with others? Is there a verse or section of Scripture I need to memorize?
