Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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25 days lent. Be firm in Faith Calm in Spirit

Bible Reading: :Philippians 4:17

Key verse:  

Bible Verse:: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by Prayer and Petition with thanksgiving, present your request to God: Philippians 4:6

DEVOTION

A 25 days Lenten observance based on Philippians 4:1-7 would focus on reconciliation, forgiveness and resolving conflicts with others, striving for “the same mind in the Lord”. A Lenten disciple could be to practice gratitude and final joy in God’s presence rather than in worldly comforts.
As we enter these 25 days of lent, Paul’s words in Philippians 4:1-7 inviter us into a season of steady trust, renewal joy, and deeper surrender. Let is not only a time of sacrifice, but a call to return to the peace and strength that come from God alone. Paul urges us to “stand firm in the Lord” reminding us that spiritual stability is found not in our own efforts, but in anchoring our hearts in Christ. Whatever we choose to give up or take on during this season, our foundation must be the unwavering love of God who carries us.
Paul also calls us to rejoice a surprising command in a potential season. But this joy is not shallow happiness; it is the quiet confidence that Christ is near. Lent reminds us that even in the moments of discipline, reflection, or struggle, God’s presence surrounds us. And because He is near, we are invited to release our worries, fears and burdens. “Calm in spirit” reflects the message about overcoming anxiety and worry. “Do not be anxious about anything,” Paul writes, “but in everything, by prayer and supplication with thanksgivings let your requests be made known to God”. Lent becomes meaningful when we intentionally bring our hearts before God – honestly, gratefully, expectantly. Fast from negative behaviors like complaining, criticism. The result of this prayerful approach is the “Peace of God, which surpasses all understanding”. Seeking this profound peace is a primary goal of the Lenten journey.
As we journey through these days, we are promised a gift “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding”. This peace isn’t dependent on circumstances, it guards our heart and minds when we choose prayer over panic gratitude over complaint, and trust over fear. May these 25 days lead us into that deeper peace.  May we stand firm, rejoice, faithfully, pray continually, and allow God’s peace to reshape us from within.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, we pray for the strength to stand firm in the Lord and to live lives that are a joy and crown to others. Teach us how to rejoice in you always even in difficult circumstances. Father we confess that we often struggle with anxiety. We lay our worries at your feet. Help us to remember your sovereignty and goodness and to find our joy and strength in you. Amen

Thought for the DAY

The world will not make faithfulness easy, to stand firm in faith. 
This doesn’t happen by crossing our fingers and hoping for the best. 
It happens only by intentionally pursuing it


                  Mariam John
                            Epiphany MaThoma Church
                            New York            

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