Today, we’ll read two well-known teachings of Jesus—the Sermon on the Mount and the Lord’s Prayer. In these passages, Jesus calls His followers to live differently in light of God’s kingdom, contrasting man-made righteousness with God’s true righteousness. As He taught the disciples both why they should pray and how they should pray, Jesus pointed them to a righteousness rooted in relationship with the Father, not in external performance.
Before you begin
Ask the Lord to give you a fresh sense of wonder as you read His Word. Pray for understanding and for an open, humble, obedient heart to receive what He wants to say to you.
Read
Review
Write a sentence or two about what you've just read. This could be a summary of the passage or an observation or highlight that stood out to you.
Reflect
Jesus’ words reveal that true righteousness flows from a transformed heart rather than external behavior. Are there any areas where you need the Holy Spirit to realign your motives? Ask the Lord to help you live each day in a way that reflects His kingdom, demonstrating purity, integrity, love, and humility.
While forgiveness is indeed costly, it is not beyond the means of those who have Christ’s life flowing within them. When God tells us to love our enemies, He also gives us the love to go along with the command. —Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth1
Respond
Write a short prayer, based on today’s reading. This could include praise, gratitude, personal confession, agreement with the truth, or a request for yourself or someone else.
1Choosing Forgiveness, p. 77, Chapter 3
Missed a day?
View Full Daily Archive
Takeaway Thought
What key verse or insight will you take with you into your day?