Free Reading Plans and Devotionals related to Matthew 6:16

"Don't worry about anything." Is that even possible? These days a fresh reason for worry and fear arrives consistently as the morning newspaper each day. Paul may have reminded believers in Philippi and himself that worrying is unproductive and isolating. Throughout his letter to the Philippians, we will discover current solutions to some age-old problems: anxiety, worry, and fear.

Fasting may be the least-discussed spiritual discipline in the church. But Jesus not only spoke about fasting, he also fasted, as did many of the heroes of the faith. So, what is fasting? Should Christians still fast today? Should you fast? What are the benefits of fasting? Are we really supposed to keep our fast private? And how are you supposed to fast?

Have you been considering a fast? Let’s look at some examples of fasting in Scripture, the reasons for fasting, and the different types of fasts, along with how to fast and how not to fast. This plan shares some important information about fasting from a biblical perspective, not a worldly one. Be sure to be praying about if this is something God is calling you to do.

At times, our Christian walk can seem complex, but fortunately enough we have been provided with a powerful guide -- scripture. Returning to the fundamentals of Christianity, we see the disciplines that the Lord established to shape our lives. This plan will explore four key basic practices that serve as the building blocks for disciples of Christ. These practices provide a firm foundation for a life centered on Christ.

Juggling work and parenting comes with well-known challenges, one of which is prioritizing time with God: Your quiet time either doesn’t happen or doesn’t feel as fulfilling as you’d like it to be. In this plan, we’ll discuss how to keep God first and make Him part of your day, whether you’re working on your business, side hustle, or parenting your kid(s).

Being in mission with Jesus can involve many activities (church planting, disciple-making, evangelism, etc.). It can take place in different places (large cities, small towns, remote rural villages). But amid that diversity of tasks and locations, there is one essential element for every all-in missional follower of Jesus: wholeness of heart. More important than the going and the doing is the being—being people with hearts of integrity, hearts with a singular loyalty, hearts that have been formed, reformed, and transformed by the Holy Spirit as he makes us more and more like Jesus.

Do you feel so busy that you barely have enough time to breathe? You are not alone. The 5-5-5 Method is a simple and practical method that eliminates the excuse that you’re too busy to spend time with God; because even the wealthiest, most influential, time-consumed individuals still have 15 minutes of spare time each day to prioritize what they love. And so do you. Do you love Jesus enough to spend 15 minutes of your day with Him? Click "Start Plan" now and learn how to spend time with God daily!

It’s important to know Jesus and what is important to Him so we understand our need for Him. Reflecting on what Jesus taught in the Sermon on the Mount, will help us draw closer to Him. This is part six of eight in the "Jesus, I Need You" series by Thistlebend Ministries. These plans can be done in any order. See also" Jesus, I Need You" (companion prayer).

Matthew writes to God’s people and walks them on a journey that will take them from where they are to being Disciple Makers.  This is the 6th of 27 devotional plans walking us through the book of Matthew.  Jesus describes the three disciplines of His Kingdom rules.  The three disciplines of Giving, Praying and Fasting are laid out for us.  We also begin the “Do’s and Don’ts” of Kingdom living. 

This week, we will talk about a subject few enjoy bringing up...fasting! Many people believe it is surely good for others, "but not for me." Let's take a look at what the Bible says about fasting and praying. You will discover practical ways on how to start with something Jesus also did a lot!