Age group: high school, college
Introduction: Elijah began his life as a nobody. By the time someone got around to writing his story, no one could remember who his parents were. But because of the special connection Elijah had with his sovereign God, he became a somebody. He became the very hands, feet, and voice of God. God spoke through Elijah. God performed miraculous feats through Elijah; God brought about a revival through Elijah. Today you too can be a somebody for God. You can do it the same way Elijah did it! Be connected, always, to your Savior through a humble lifestyle, fervent prayer, and an attitude of faith.
Study: James 2:14-26; 2 Thessalonians 2: 13-17; 2 Timothy 1:1; 2:13; 2 Peter 1:-11
Ask yourself the following questions: How is my faith reflected in the things I do? In which part of my life is it most difficult to exercise faith?
Apply:
- Make a list of the people in your life you trust implicitly. Then, write each one a note of appreciation this week for their influence in your life.
- Nurture someone else’s faith in the good in humankind. For example, leave a note of thanks and encouragement (along with your tip!) for the server when you eat at a restaurant.
- Collect poetry on the subject of prayer. Then, take the time to appreciate the collection and be blessed by it.
- Ask someone who knows you well to point out your strengths and weakness. Next, find specific ways to use your strength. Ask God for help in strengthening your weaknesses.
- Subscribe to a magazine such as Discipleship Journal that will enrich your spiritual walk.
- Trace your foot on construction paper. Next, as artistically as possible, fill it with statements that reflect your spiritual goals. Frame and hang it where it can serve as a reminder of where you want to go!
- Start a book exchange. Meet your friends at a local donut shop once a month to swap books that will help you grow in your connection with the Lord.
- Begin a mid-day devotion time with a book such as Oswald Chamber’s My Utmost for His Highest.
Additional reading:
Arthur F Miller Jr., Why You Can Be Anything You Want to Be, chaps.7 and 8
Corrie ten Boom, Reflections of God’s Glory
Says Fyl 