Free Reading Plans and Devotionals related to 2 Corinthians 12:9

“Joy to the world” is a catchy lyric, but real joy can seem totally impossible when life feels messy. When we think of “Christmas,” we think of “joyful celebration," but what happens when the holiday season doesn’t match what’s actually happening around us? We’ll discover that Christmas can still be a season of joy, even when life feels messy.

This fasting guide is meant to accompany a 21-day fast. For each week, we will look first at the example of Jesus’ fasting and temptation in the wilderness. Then we will attempt to draw out important biblical teachings to edify our souls as we fast from food and feast on God. The goal of this is to experience for ourselves what it means to live not by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God (Matt. 4:4).

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with your whole heart.” (Jeremiah 29:13) This is a promise that God gave His people 2,600 years ago. It was a promise that the effort to pursue God would be rewarded with finding Him. For the next 21 days, we will pray and fast as we seek our Lord. He is our Promise Keeper.

This meditative reflection on 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 about Paul’s thorn in the flesh, starts and finishes with a celebration of God’s abundant grace. In between, we explore the enigma of human suffering. What should our response be to the agony of our painful thorns? This plan will help you set your sails to receive the wind of God’s lavish grace.

Mothers' strength awes me as they manage life, carry others, and handle countless responsibilities. Your strength, spirit, and love inspire me to be a better mom. This devotional offers inspiration and practical support. May your strength renew itself daily. As you connect with Jesus, hear His voice, and remember, the Father sees your unseen efforts. If ever uncertain, know that I believe in your strength as a mother. - Pastor Meredith

Do you know what it feels like to feel like everything is everywhere? Overwhelming, stressful, just a lot. And our generation might know that more than any generation before us. But what can we do? Let's remind ourselves that God cares for us, God uses other people to help us, and that joy is always a choice.

During Connect 21, we aspire to gain clarity in hearing God's voice and making His wisdom our guiding light throughout the year. To achieve this, we commit to subduing the desires of our flesh through fasting, redirecting the time spent on meals to prayer, and glorifying God. This spiritual discipline empowers us to experience God's presence and to witness His transformative power in our lives.

Adapted from an eight-week faith and fitness Bible study written by Alisa Keeton, The Wellness Revelation 21-Day Journey offers daily devotions on eight topics essential to true and lasting weight loss – wellness that isn’t just focused on what you eat or how many pounds you weigh, but the “weight” that keeps you from living an abundant life in Christ.

Learn how best to pray, both from the prayers of the faithful and from the words of Jesus Himself. Find encouragement to keep taking your requests to God every day, with persistence and patience. Explore examples of empty, self righteous prayers, balanced against the pure prayers of those with clean hearts. Pray constantly.

While preparing for the holidays at the end of each year, it is easy to forget to practice gratitude intentionally. Grab your journal, color pencils, paints, art and craft supplies, or maybe even just a pen and a paper; and begin a meaningful 24-day journey this Advent of practicing gratitude through creative journaling. You can also ask a group of friends to join your gratitude journaling journey!