Tuesday | Devotion to Scripture and Prayer, and Gathering in Groups
Tuesday | Devotion to Scripture and Prayer, and Gathering in Groups
Tuesday, August 12, 2025
Reading For Tuesday | Acts 2:41-47
LIVING OUT YOUR BAPTISM THROUGH A RENEWED MIND & COMMUNITY
For the rest of this week, we’ll be reflecting on how living out our baptism can tangibly be applied through spiritual practices. This is an overview of where we’re headed for the rest of this series, as we’ll be digging much deeper into each of these practices. For today, let’s simply reflect on where we’re at in the practices of ‘Daily Rhythms’ & ‘Groups’.
As a new creation in Christ, your baptism signifies a transformation that begins with the renewal of your mind and heart. The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to prayer, recognizing these practices as foundational for spiritual growth and alignment with God's will. This devotion was not merely an intellectual exercise but a heartfelt commitment to allow God's Word and communication with Him through prayer to shape their thoughts, attitudes, and actions. In Romans 12:2, Paul urges believers to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, emphasizing that this renewal is essential for discerning God's will. At our church, we call this time of personal devotion to scripture and prayer “Daily Rhythms”.
In addition to individual daily rhythms, the early believers gathered in groups, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Baptism is not only a personal declaration of faith but also an initiation into a new family—the body of Christ. The disciples lived this out with Jesus in the years leading up to His death and resurrection, studying the Scriptures together, carefully observing Jesus’ example, and practicing His way of living with each other’s help and accountability. It’s clear from the beginning that the life of a devoted disciple of Jesus was not meant to be lived in isolation. The Spirit uses the power of community to continue His work of transformation in each one of our lives.
For the rest of this week, we’ll be reflecting on how living out our baptism can tangibly be applied through spiritual practices. This is an overview of where we’re headed for the rest of this series, as we’ll be digging much deeper into each of these practices. For today, let’s simply reflect on where we’re at in the practices of ‘Daily Rhythms’ & ‘Groups’.
As a new creation in Christ, your baptism signifies a transformation that begins with the renewal of your mind and heart. The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to prayer, recognizing these practices as foundational for spiritual growth and alignment with God's will. This devotion was not merely an intellectual exercise but a heartfelt commitment to allow God's Word and communication with Him through prayer to shape their thoughts, attitudes, and actions. In Romans 12:2, Paul urges believers to be transformed by the renewing of their minds, emphasizing that this renewal is essential for discerning God's will. At our church, we call this time of personal devotion to scripture and prayer “Daily Rhythms”.
In addition to individual daily rhythms, the early believers gathered in groups, fostering a sense of community and belonging. Baptism is not only a personal declaration of faith but also an initiation into a new family—the body of Christ. The disciples lived this out with Jesus in the years leading up to His death and resurrection, studying the Scriptures together, carefully observing Jesus’ example, and practicing His way of living with each other’s help and accountability. It’s clear from the beginning that the life of a devoted disciple of Jesus was not meant to be lived in isolation. The Spirit uses the power of community to continue His work of transformation in each one of our lives.
JOURNALING REFLECTION QUESTIONS
- How does your daily devotion to Scripture and prayer help renew your mind and align your life with God's will?
- In what ways have you experienced growth or transformation through your participation in a small group or community?
- What steps can you take to deepen your commitment to these practices and strengthen your connection to the body of Christ?
PRAYER PROMPTS
- Thank God for the gift of His Word and the opportunity to communicate with Him through prayer.
- Ask for a deeper hunger for Scripture and a more vibrant prayer life.
- Pray for meaningful connections within your church community and for opportunities to grow together in faith.
NEXT STEPS
- If you need a community where you can know GOD, be known, and grow with others, we’d love to help you find a Discipleship Group! Learn more by going to ‘Connect Me to a Group’ to view available Groups at your Campus or complete a connection form, and someone will follow up with you.