Kids want the latest and greatest backpack for the new school year. As parents, we want this for our kids, too. We want them to feel special and provided for – so we get them the coolest backpack and school supplies. Why? Because we hope that the perfect backpack, the top shoes, and the best school supplies will help gear them up for a successful year. It is the hope of every parent. And guess what? It is the same with God. Our perfect Father, who gives us the best gifts, wants to give you a backpack full of wonderful supplies that will make for a spirit-filled, successful year. He has jammed packed a backpack for YOU! The supplies and tools the Lord provides are all you need to live out a victorious life for His glory. He has provided these supplies through His Son Jesus Christ, His Holy Spirit, and His Word, (John 1:1-3, 14). These supplies and tools are in the Bible. By His divine power, God has given us everything we need for living a godly life. We have received all of this by coming to know Him, the One who called us to Himself by means of His marvelous glory and excellence. 2 Peter 1:3 NLT Take the time this year to dig deep into your backpack and search through the supplies He has provided for you. These supplies, the much-needed tools for your soul, represent God’s gifts to you. You can find them by spending time in His word and in prayer. This in turn offers us God’s presence, the very thing which increases our faith. These tools found within the Bible and among Christian fellowship are also the provisions that Jesus used to fight the enemy (Luke 4:1-13). Do you have any enemies in your life? Any damaging habits or unlovable characteristics that you need to fight off?
Here is a simple formula: Time in God’s word and prayer = God’s presence = more faith = more peace & joy
Also, know that you do not have to dig into your backpack or unpack your backpack by yourself. A friend or mentor can come alongside you to help you! Consider these amazing people in the Bible who also needed help with living a triumphant life:
Joshua had Moses
Samuel had Eli
Ruth had her mother-in-law, Naomi
Timothy and Titus had Paul
The disciples, including the women among them, had Jesus.
As you look at the new school year with hope, know your Heavenly Father has hopes for you too! He desires for you to have a victorious and successful year. A year with many overcoming moments and filled with stories of His presence in your life. Testimonies that will give Him the glory and give you joy no one can steal. Here is how you can get started:
Admit it is not about more of you, but more of the Lord Jesus in you.
Commit to developing a true relationship with Him.
Get involved in a Bible study so that you can grow, receive, and use the beautiful tools God has packed for YOU.
May this be a wonderful year of spiritual growth for you! Know that you are loved! If you need prayer or want to get plugged in let us know: weekendofrenewal@gmail.com