Free Reading Plans and Devotionals related to 1 Corinthians 9:13

The apostle Paul is legendary for his work as a minister of the gospel. But we often forget that throughout his ministry, Paul also worked as a tentmaker. As Scriptures in this plan make clear, Paul had the option to work as a “donor-supported missionary” but chose not to. Why? That’s the question we’ll answer in this plan, and in so doing, glean insights relevant to our own work today.

Of all the apostles, Paul’s conversion/calling story was arguably the most notable and miraculous, his assignment to take the Gospel to the Gentiles the most unique, and the tangible results of his obedience the most impressive by human standards. Even so, Paul did not operate as a lone wolf, set apart from the pack and self-sufficient. On the contrary, this hero of the Christian faith understood the essential role his brothers and sisters played in his life and stayed connected to them even when his assignment to preach and live truth called him away for long stretches of time. 

The Scriptures give a number of reasons for people to work—all of them profound in their own way—because what we do for a living matters to God. Work has value in and of itself, it is intrinsically a good thing, and when work is done with excellence, it reflects God. The Bible tells us that our work accomplishes God’s work and purpose in the Kingdom through His grace.

All Christians are called to love and serve the needs of others, but some believers are uniquely gifted to serve by leading, preaching, teaching, shepherding, evangelizing, or going cross-culturally as missionaries. Ministry begins with and is sustained by grace. This devotional plan will help you practice grace in your service to God.

The following reading plan will take you deeper into the three concepts of Spirit, Soul, and Body at a steady pace, building on the message of Jesus' finished work. It will stretch, challenge, and grow you as his follower. Make sure to allow the Holy Spirit space to work in you and to shape you. See the impact for yourself. This is the last of four plans.

Can't stand your job? Feel undervalued and underappreciated at work? Called to do something else? Prayed and prayed for God to open career opportunities but no doors have opened? I've been there! If you have been there or are there now... this plan is for you.

Times are tough. Prices are high. Disposable income has dwindled. As followers of Jesus, how are we reacting to the severe economic crises faced by people in our communities and around the world? In this powerful, encouraging six-day plan, Busola Sodeinde explores the teachings of Jesus and the lives of various people in the Bible to show us how to respond with faith to the reality of financial uncertainty.

The light and love of Jesus meet the world’s deep need—and we can participate in bringing his light to our communities and relationships. In these devotionals, pastor and former NFL player Derwin Gray encourages us to become everyday missionaries, offering good news to those around us.

Drawing on James Spencer's book titled Useful to God: Eight Lessons from the Life of D. L. Moody, this Bible Plan examines eight characteristics evident in the Scriptures and in the life of 19th century evangelist Dwight Moody (e.g., surrendered, prayerful, humbled, undistracted, and studious). A free guide including these reflections along with activities and additional devotional content is also available for download from D. L. Moody Center.

If you follow Jesus, the Holy Spirit has empowered you with spiritual gifts for his glory. Are you actively using them for the benefit of others? Do you feel like you’re misapplying them? This study dives into what spiritual gifts are, how God will use your gifts, and how to connect with other Christians who possess gifts different from yours.