Devotions for Spiritual Strength

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Living in Life-Giving Community

Get in the Game - Power of Community

February 3 - February 7, 2026

February 3: The Faith of Friends
Reading: Luke 5:17-26

The paralyzed man's healing began not with his own faith, but with the faith of his friends. They literally tore through a roof to bring him to Jesus. Who in your life needs you to carry them to Christ? Perhaps someone is spiritually paralyzed by guilt, shame, or doubt. They may not have the strength to come on their own. True community means sacrificing our comfort to bring others into God's presence. Consider today: Are you willing to do the hard work of intercession? Will you carry someone through prayer, encouragement, or practical help? Your faith for another person might be exactly what Jesus uses to bring healing and restoration.
February 4: The Medicine of Forgiveness
Reading: Psalm 103:8-14

Jesus surprised everyone by forgiving sins before healing the body. He understood that our deepest paralysis is spiritual, not physical. Many of us carry the weight of unforgiven sins—not because God hasn't forgiven us, but because we haven't accepted that forgiveness. We know our failures intimately and struggle to release them. God's forgiveness is complete and immediate when we turn to Him. The psalmist reminds us that God removes our sins "as far as the east is from the west." Today, speak this truth over yourself: "In the name of Jesus Christ, I am forgiven." Let that weight fall from your shoulders. True healing begins when we accept God's complete forgiveness.
February 5: Created for Connection
Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12

Science confirms what Scripture has always taught: we are created for community. Isolation diminishes our humanity, while connection restores it. In our modern world, we can survive without ever leaving home, yet this convenience comes at a cost to our souls. The writer of Ecclesiastes understood that "two are better than one" because they provide support, warmth, and strength. God Himself exists in community—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We reflect His image when we live in authentic relationship with others. Evaluate your level of isolation today. Are you allowing convenience to rob you of life-giving community? Take one practical step toward connection: attend a small group, share a meal, or simply call a friend.
February 6: The Risk of Reaching Out
Reading: Galatians 6:1-5

The friends who brought the paralyzed man to Jesus took significant risks. They risked physical danger climbing the roof, social embarrassment interrupting Jesus, and potential anger from the homeowner. True community requires risk—the vulnerability of sharing our struggles, the courage to ask for help, the boldness to speak truth in love. Paul instructs us to "carry each other's burdens," which means getting involved in the messy reality of others' lives. It's easier to stay isolated, to handle everything alone, to maintain our image of having it all together. But that's not God's design. Today, take a risk: share a real struggle with someone trustworthy, or ask someone how they're really doing—and wait for the honest answer.
February 7: Worship and Weekly Restoration
Reading: Hebrews 10:23-25

The writer of Hebrews warns against "giving up meeting together," understanding that consistent community worship is essential for spiritual health. Weekly worship isn't just tradition; it's spiritual medicine. When we gather, we recalibrate our hearts, refocus our minds, and remember God's promises. We sing together, pray together, and hear God's Word proclaimed. This regular rhythm keeps us spiritually healthy, just as regular exercise maintains physical health. In our individualistic culture, we must intentionally prioritize corporate worship. It's not about obligation but about receiving what our souls desperately need. Make worship non-negotiable this week. Come expecting God to meet you, heal you, and restore your humanity through the gathered community of faith.