Student Quiet Times

Welcome to the Students at The Mill Summer Quiet Time Guide! The Student Team here at Church at The Mill has the goal to see each and everyone of our students grow into a deeper personal relationship with Jesus Christ. We are convinced that the main catalyst for this growth is the Word of God. As a result, we want you to be in the Word consistently on your own time, not just at church! We have made a quiet time guide just for you! The first two weeks look into how to have a quiet time, and the remaining weeks walk through books of the Bible, breaking them up into manageable sections for each day!

Weekly Quiet Time Guide

Join us this Summer for 12 weeks of Student Quiet Times! We'll post quiet time prompts for five days each week from April 29 through July 19.

Select a week

WEEK 1: April 29-May 3

THE BASICS: PART 1 | This week in our Summer Quiet Time Guide, we are spending some time looking at different pieces of Scripture to understand how and why we have quiet times.

Day 1

Text: 1 Timothy 4:12

At times church may feel like it's for older people. Maybe you think that you are too young to read your Bible. Maybe you think you are too young to make a difference. Maybe you think you are too young to understand the Bible. Well, according to this verse, that is not true! Before we begin the journey of studying Scripture, we need to have a foundational understanding that age is not a limiting factor in studying the Bible! The Bible's message is simple enough to be understood by a 5-year-old, and yet so complex that people go their entire lives learning new things from it. Be encouraged that you can study the Bible, and, not only that, but according to Paul, you can set an example for people to follow! Don’t let age get in the way of your study of the Bible; you can do this!

Application/Reflection Questions

Do you feel age is a limiting factor to your Bible study?
What are some concerns you have about Bible study?
What are some things you are looking forward to in Bible study?

Prayer

Take some time to pray and ask God for encouragement in Bible study. Tell Him some things you are worried about and some things you are excited about! Ask Him to lead you and grow you through these studies.

Day 2

Text: John 17:3

Before we begin Bible study, we have to ask why we study the Bible. The answer comes from John 17:3. Eternal life is found in a relationship with Jesus. It comes from the knowledge that Jesus is the Son of God who came to the earth, lived a perfect life and died on the cross, but rose to life again three days later. But one cannot have knowledge if they don't study! You cannot do well in school and gain knowledge on math if you never study math! The same principle is true for Jesus. We cannot grow in our knowledge of Him if we do not spend time in His Word. The good thing for us is that Bible study is so much more fun than math! Let's join in this journey together with excitement that we will grow in our understanding of Christ!

Application/Reflection Questions

Spend some time reflecting on your relationship with Jesus. Do you have one? If so, how did it start?
Do you believe that eternal life comes from knowing Christ? Why or why not?
How does knowing Jesus change your perspective on life?

Prayer

Spend some time in prayer reflection on John 17:3. Praise Jesus for what He did on earth and ask Him to lead you in understanding His Word more and more.

Day 3

Text: 2 Timothy 3:16-17

Yesterday we talked about how reading the Bible plays a big role in our understanding of Christ. In today's verses we are going to see how this is possible. Paul is writing and he explains that all Scripture from Genesis 1:1 to Revelation 22:21 is all from God and about God. Scripture reading is useful for many reasons such as teaching, conviction, showing us areas we need work and making us more like Jesus. When we study Scripture we begin to understand God’s will and plan for life. As a result of that we begin to be conformed to God’s Word as we reflect and meditate on it.

Application/Reflection Questions

Why is God’s Word important?
What does God’s Word do to its reader/hearer?

Prayer

Pray that as you begin your time reading through Scripture that God would mold you and make you to be more like Jesus. Ask God for wisdom and understanding as you read and that he would guide you through the process.

Day 4

Text: Matthew 6:33

There are many things that we seek after in life. Maybe its your sports or a hobby. Maybe its good grades or a relationship with a boy friend or girl friend. We may all chase a different thing, but at the end of the day we all seek something. In todays verse Jesus makes it very clear that the thing we should be seeking is the kingdom of heaven. Essentially what Jesus is saying is that the thing we should be chasing most is Jesus himself. Out of everything in our lives Jesus should be our number one priority and the one person that we seek to know and understand better than anyone else.

Application/Reflection Questions

What are things you seek in your life? Is Jesus one of them?
Do you struggle with prioritizing Jesus? Why or why not?
What are some practical steps you can take to prioritize Jesus as your number one priority and have Him stay there consistently?

Prayer

Pray and ask God to help you seek him. Ask God to give you wisdom and discernment to follow Him closely above all else.

Day 5

Text: Psalm 1

A tree needs water to live. This is why if you go to a river or stream you will likely see a lot of trees / plants and green vegetation. The reason is the plants are getting the nutrients they need to survive. This is the same way that we should be with Jesus. We are like a tree in need of nutrients to survive. Jesus and His Word is like the stream. When we are planted by the stream we will grow and prosper as a result of being fed spiritually. In the same way you need food to survive, you need the Word of God to survive Spiritually.

Application/Reflection Questions

Is Scripture something that you see as important as food?
How can you live a life rooted in Scripture?
What is hindering you from living a life rooted in Christ?

Prayer

Take some time to pray about what it means to be planted in Christ. Ask God to reveal to you what is hindering you from doing so. Ask God for wisdom as to how to be rooted in Scripture.

WEEK 2: May 6-10

THE BASICS: PART 2 | This week we will take more time to look deeper at why and how we have daily quiet times.

Day 1

Text: Psalm 119:105

Last week we talked about what it means to be rooted in Scripture. Being a tree by streams of water. Today we are going to look at what it looks like for us let Scripture lead us. Scripture shouldn't just be something we read for 5 minutes then walk away and do nothing about it. Rather we should allow Scripture not just to fill us but to lead us. Like our verse says today Scripture should be a lamp to our path. Scripture should be the thing that leads us in this life in everything we do. We should allow God’s Word to lead and impact every aspect of our lives, not just time in church.

Application/Reflection Questions

How do we allow Scripture to lead us?
- Reading it
- Memorizing verses
- Praying through it
- Thinking about application before we are done
What does it mean for Scripture to be a lamp to our path?
Does Scripture guide your life? Why or why not?
What would it take for Scripture to lead every aspect of your life?

Prayer

Spend some time in prayer asking God to lead every aspect of your life. Ask him to let Scripture guide you in all that you do.

Day 2

Text: Mark 1:35

One of the hardest things for most people reading the Bible is actually finding time to read the Bible. How we spend our time shows us our priority in life. If Christ is truly important and our number one priority then we will make time for him. Eating lunch can take a lot of time in our day when we are trying to be productive. But we do it because we need food to sustain production. The same is true for reading Scripture. For us to be sustained spiritually in the day we need to spend time in the Word. Jesus got up before everyone else, he made it a priority in his life to spend time with God. We should follow Christ's example. As time goes on reading Scripture will change from something you may feel as a burden to the most joyful time of your day.

Application/Reflection Questions

What hinders you from spending time with Christ?
What do you need to change in your schedule to spend time with God?
Write out a schedule for your week, with the first thing being when you will spend time with Christ in His Word.

Prayer

Ask God to show you times in your day when you can spend time in the Word. Ask Him to reveal to you moments where you waste time and how you can be more effective. Ask God to give you a desire to spend time in his Word, making it a priority in your day.

Day 3

Text: Colossians 4:2

Prayer is one of those church words we like to throw around a lot. Maybe you think of it as what hinders you from eating your food for a few minutes before a meal. Maybe its what you and your family do at night. Maybe prayer is something that you do when life gets really hard. Prayer is something that is a gift from God. If you think about prayer it really is crazy. That at any moment in any circumstance we can communicate personally with the God of the universe! God wants you to pray, he wants to know your heart the good and the bad. Paul here urges believers to pray and not to just do it once or twice but with a steadfast meaning consistent mind behind it. Prayer is an essential part of the Christian walk and one that needs to be taken seriously.

Application/Reflection Questions

Is prayer a normal part of your life? Why or why not?
How can you incorporate prayer into your time with the Lord?
Write out a list of things you are grateful for, other people and anything else that you want to pray for. Use that list as a guide in your prayer life.

Prayer

Ask God to help you with prayer. It sounds funny but it works! Ask God to lead you in your prayer life with consistency and focus.

Day 4

Text: Revelation 3:20

We speak a lot about pursuing Jesus and growing in our relationship with Him. However often it is not as discussed as much that Jesus wants the relationship with us. We don't have to try hard to find Jesus in fact according to Revelation 3 says he's knocking on the door. He promises that if we allow him into our lives that he will come in. The problem is not if Jesus loves us and wants a relationship with us, the question is will we allow him? Will you allow Christ into your life? Will you allow Christ to take control of your life? These are questions we all have to ask.

Application/Reflection Questions

Have you ever accepted Christ into your life? If, so what was that experience like? If not, what's holding you back?
Are you letting Christ into every aspect of your life? Or are you only allowing him into certain areas you want him to be in?

Prayer

Pray for Christ to come into every aspect of your life. Pray for him to take control and lead you in the direction he has set out for you.

Day 5

Text: Luke 24:13-35

This is a famous passage about Jesus after his resurrection. This passage teaches us two really important truths about Scripture. The first is that its all about Jesus. In verse 27 Luke writes that Jesus told these two people how all of the Old Testament is about Jesus. Every time we read the Bible it is always about Jesus. The second thing it teaches us is that when we interact with Jesus it impacts us. The individuals said that their hearts burned when they were talking to Jesus. When we interact with Jesus and his Word we are impacted. As time goes on we begin to see the glory of Jesus and the value of his word. As we embark on this journey through the summer walking through books of Scripture be encouraged and excited about the fact that you are literally interacting with the God of the universe and the one and only savior Jesus Christ.

Application/Reflection Questions

Have you ever had a burning desire to be in God's Word? If so, what was it like?
What are you most excited about in studying Scripture?
What are some things you may be nervous about as we begin this summer quiet time together? Call or text a friend or pastor from Church at the Mill and have a conversation about it.

Prayer

Pray that your heart would burn for God’s Word. That God would give you a desire and passion to have a quiet time. Also pray that through that experience God would mold you and form you to be more like Christ.

WEEK 3: May 13-17

LET'S DIVE IN | This week we will start our study of Galatians! We will go day by day, reading and reflecting on Paul’s letter to the Galatians.

Day 1

Text: Galatians 1:1-10

Everywhere you look on social media, the news, or in culture you will see someone trying to sell you a way to happiness. They will say things like, “do this routine," “follow this workout plan,” “get into this school,” or “wear these clothes.”
People all over are searching and longing for fulfillment. Paul is the author of the book of Galatians, and the people that he is writing to struggled with this. They were under the impression from Jewish people that they had to work to be saved. Paul writes to them, and as we read today, is amazed that they have left the gospel he preached to them. They have followed another path thinking it is the answer to their salvation and joy. Much like the Galatians, we also can leave the gospel we have been presented with. We tend to think that different things in the world other than Jesus--like our grades, sports and popularity--are going to give us joy and fulfill our hearts. The reality is, though, that only the gospel of Jesus can do this. Only the message that Paul gives in v. 4 that Jesus gave himself for us on the cross will save us and bring us the joy we long for.

Application/Reflection Questions

What are things in your life that you desert Jesus for?
Why do you think that you leave Jesus for those things?
Do you struggle with verse 10 like the Galatians? Are you trying to please people with your appearance and personality or is your only goal in life to please Christ? What can you do to shift your focus on Christ and off of others opinions.

Prayer

Pray for God to reveal any areas of your life that you find yourself going to as your source of happiness and joy. Ask God to point you back in the right direction of the true gospel.

Day 2

Text: Galatians 1:11-17

As we talked about on day one, there are many people who claim to be wise and have the secret to life. They claim to know how to lead you to happiness and give you what you long for. These same kinds of people were around in Paul's day. They were giving messages of hope, salvation and happiness that didn't have anything to do with Jesus. Paul combats this and makes it very clear as he is presenting an argument to the Galatians that the message he told them is not made up. It is not “Paul’s great idea;” rather he is speaking the true message of God. Paul is making it clear that his message is not just another human attempt to make people happy, rather it is the true message from the one true God.

Application/Reflection Questions

What are some false messages the world promotes to make people happy?
How can you guard yourself from these false messages?
Do you have someone in your life to hold you accountable? If so, talk to them about today's reading. If not, think about an older Christian you can ask to keep you accountable in your walk with Jesus.

Prayer

Pray that God would be honored and glorified in your life, that you would not fall into the false messages of the world, but stay firm in the true message that He has given us.

Day 3

Text: Galatians 1:18-24

The story of Paul is a one of radical transformation. Paul, who according to himself, is one of the worst sinners (1 Tim. 1:15). But he was radically saved out of his sin and started to follow Christ. People heard about Paul's salvation and were encouraged in their own faith and praised God because of Paul’s salvation. Today's verses show us the power of God’s salvation--that God can save anyone. It doesn't matter what you have done in the past; God wants you to come to salvation. God not only just wants, it but He has provided you with an opportunity to come to salvation through Jesus. We also know that once someone is saved their salvation turns into a testimony, and testimonies turn into encouragement. It is encouraging for Christians to hear of other people coming to faith. It is also a challenge for non-Christians to hear others' testimonies. It makes them reflect on their own life and ask if they have a testimony of their own or not.

Application/Reflection Questions

Remember that your story matters! It doesn't matter if you have a radical transformation testimony or not, your story matters.
How can you use your testimony for the edification of the church? How can you use your testimony to evangelize to non believers?
Do you have a testimony? If you don’t please reach out to the Church at The Mill student team and we would love to talk to you! If you do have a testimony, practice saying it. You should be able to articulate your testimony in 30 seconds, 2 minutes, and 5 minutes.

Prayer

Praise God for saving you if you have come to faith in Christ. Ask God to help you use your testimony for the encouragement of the church as well as for evangelism purposes.

Day 4

Text: Galatians 2:1-10

Starting the second chapter of Galatians, Paul begins to explain his second trip to Jerusalem with Barnabas and Titus. Paul explains to Jerusalem’s leaders the gospel that he has been preaching to the Gentiles. They affirm that it is the truth and that no work (circumcision) is required for salvation.

Paul, Barnabas, and Titus were affirmed and tasked with going to the Gentiles to spread the gospel!

Notice the courage that Paul had in verses 4 and 5. His desire, even when faced with people who opposed him, was to present the WHOLE truth of the gospel. That way, it might continue that Christ alone is enough for salvation and through nothing we can do to earn it.

Application/Reflection Questions

Would you have the same courage that Paul had to share the truth of the gospel even when there are those that disagree with you? What gives you that courage or what makes you scared to share?
Try writing down your understanding of the gospel as you would explain it to someone.

Prayer

Thank God for a church and people around you that share the truth of the gospel with you. Ask God to remind you of the sweetness of what he has done for you!

Day 5

Text: Galatians 2:11-14

I (Jordan) remember this time I was cheering on the Gamecocks with one of my buddies. At the moment Clemson fans started surrounding us, my friend got scared and started acting like a Clemson fan! Can you believe that? Well, Peter did that exact same thing! Peter, after affirming that the Gentiles were being taught the true gospel, gets scared when the Jews showed up and started being hypocritical in the way he was talking. Paul called him out and held him accountable.

Application/Reflection Questions

Why is it hard to be bold around people that think differently than you?
Who are five people that can hold you accountable?
How can you respond to being held accountable?

Prayer

Pray for God to reveal to you people in your life who will hold you accountable. Pray for boldness when people disagree with you and you still have to share truth with them!

WEEK 4: May 20-24

JOURNEY THROUGH GALATIANS: PART 1 | This week we will continue reading through Galatians. We will get into some really big Biblical topics, which may seem scary. Don’t worry; we will tackle them together!

Day 1

Text: Galatians 2:15-21

Paul is speaking to Jewish Christians about how they are saved. He makes the claim that they are not justified or saved by their works or by following the Old Testament Law. Rather, they are justified or saved by their faith in Christ. Christ is the only way to salvation. There is no good work that anyone can do to save or justify themselves. In Galatians 2:20, Paul writes a famous verse about how we have been crucified with Christ. This means that, once we are saved, we have died to our sin and, as a result, Christ lives in us. Therefore, the life we live is for Jesus. We no longer live trying to be good by ourselves, but we live with the intention of living for Christ. We must die to ourselves so Christ can live in us. We no longer are saved by the law because we are justified by Christ himself.

Application/Reflection Questions

What does it mean to be justified/saved? How are we justified/saved according to these verses? Why is this important for Christians?
What does it mean to be crucified with Christ? How is it encouraging that Christ lives inside you?
Would others around you know that you have died to sin? If so, how? If not, how? How can you tell/show other people that you have died to your sin and now live for Christ?

Prayer

Pray for God to help you see the value and meaning of being crucified with Christ. Ask Him for encouragement in seeing the value for what He has done for you on the cross. Ask for wisdom and discernment in being able to live for Christ in every aspect of your life.

Day 2

Text: Galatians 3:1-9

The quiet time for today starts off pretty harshly! Paul calls the Galatians “foolish!” As we have seen in the past few quiet times, the Galatians were being reminded again and again that their relationship with Christ is not founded in the law, but in faith. Paul challenges them with questions about what truly makes their faith, desiring for the Galatians to look back and remember Christ crucified as the foundation. Finally in the passage, Paul references back to Genesis when Abraham was found righteous by his belief, not through the law.

Application/Reflection Questions:

Paul is really beating the Galatians over the head with reminders that their faith is not found in the law! Why do you think that Paul keeps bringing this up over and over again?
What is it that Paul wants the Galatians to know? (verse 7)
Has there been a time where you felt like your faith was not enough? What was that time? How can you, by reading Paul’s reminder, combat moments when you feel like your faith is not enough?

Prayer

Pray today to thank God for Christ and the relationship you have with Him. Thank God for the people who helped lead you in the faith (parents, Small Group leaders, friends, etc.). Pray for your faith in Christ to be strengthened and grow deep roots so that you may influence the people around you. Give praise to God for some great things in your life, and ask Him for help where you are struggling.

Day 3

Text: Galatians 3:10-14

The Jews thought they were better than the Gentiles (non-Jews) because they had God’s Law. Paul explains that they are saved by faith, not by good works, following the Law, or how much they knew about God. Their salvation, rather, was solely found through knowing and having a relationship with Jesus.

Application/Reflection Questions:

In what areas of your life have you been relying on your own strength?
How can faith-based actions turn into routine works? (For example going to church or reading your Bible…)
What are ways you can make sure you are doing things as a result of Jesus’s work not trying to impress Jesus by your works?

Prayer

Thank God for the fact that you don't have to earn your salvation. Thank Him for his work on the cross and ask Him to show you the weight of salvation.

Day 4

Text: Galatians 3:15-29

In this passage, Paul talks about how the Old Testament (OT) laws were meant to provide us with a way to deal with sin (temporarily) and learn/teach what God actually requires. However, Paul makes sure he lets us know that the OT laws were, and always were, meant to be ONLY temporary. The OT promises were all promised to Abraham and his offspring. This offspring is Christ, and, since Christ came and died in our place for our sins, He fulfilled the law. Whether we’re jew or gentile, we get the promise of full justification from our sin not by placing our faith in the law, but by placing our faith in the One who kept the law perfectly–the One who made it available to us by shedding his blood to do so–Jesus Christ.

Application/Reflection Questions

How did the Old Testament laws provide us with a way to deal with sin? (Leviticus 16:5 is an example.) How would you feel if we still had to deal with sin like that today?
What is an “heir”? What do you think about the fact that when you have a relationship with Christ you become an heir? (Titus 3:3-7)
Take some time to reflect on the fact that a saving faith in Jesus invites you into the family of Christ and how special that is! Your challenge this week is to tell someone about the hope that you get from being a heir of Christ!

Prayer

Thank God for the hope of Christ. Pray for the people in your life who need that hope or need to be reminded of it. Pray that you may dwell on it each and every day, never forgetting how special your relationship with Christ is!

Day 5

Text: Galatians 4:1-7

We are not slaves of the world. Instead, we are God’s children. He will provide everything for us as long as we follow and trust Him. God chooses us to care for us, so we must obey Him. If we say we want Him to care for us, but we are not following His will, then we are not showing obedience.

Application/Reflection Questions:

What in your life is causing you to not trust God?
What are ways you struggle to be obedient to God?
What are practical ways you can grow in your obedience to God?

Prayer

Thank God for showing you generosity and caring for you. Thank Him for sending Jesus, and for Jesus being the biggest act of generosity for us. Ask God to lead you and give you wisdom to be obedient to Him in every aspect of your life.

WEEK 5: May 27-31

JOURNEY THROUGH GALATIANS: PART 2 | This week we will continue our study in Galatians. This is a great opportunity to reflect on God’s Word and get in the routine of daily devotion.

Day 1

Text: Galatians 4:8-11

We will always serve something. When we were born into this world, we were born wanting to serve God. However, our sinfulness has blinded us from this. Therefore, we long to serve something, and so we end up serving something that is inferior to God. These other things cannot measure up to God, because He is the Creator of all things and the one true God. These gods include anything that we place above God, like sports, friends, approval, etc. Even when we know God, we can still be tempted to stray from God and return to our inferior “gods” that will constantly let us down. However, when we see the mercy and awesomeness of God, it should motivate us to be obedient to Him and not turn astray from Him.

Application/Reflection Questions:

What do you spend the most time doing?
How does it affect your walk with the Lord?
What can you do to not be led astray by false gods?

Prayer: Pray to honor God with your actions today. Ask Him to give you strength to turn to Him instead of false gods. Ask God to show you His mercy and kindness. Ask God to show you through Scripture how great He is and that, in turn, you would not follow anyone else but Him.

Day 2

Text: Galatians 4:12-20

When Paul is writing this letter, it is not necessarily a big letter of encouragement to the Galatians. In fact a lot of the letter includes Paul calling the Galatians out for living in sin. They had fallen under the idea that they had to work for God’s approval of their lives. In our section today, Paul is making an argument to the Galatians that he has their best interest in mind. He reminds the Galatians that they took care of him greatly when he was hurt, so much so that they would take their eye out for him (figuratively). As a result, he would not lie to them or lead them astray after all that he has done for them. Rather, Paul is lovingly calling them out.

Application/Reflection Questions:

In today's culture, not many people like to be disciplined or called out. However, if coming from the right heart, these actions are a gift from the Lord. Hebrews 12:6-8 points us to this fact that God disciplines those whom he loves. If someone calls you out or disciplines you, instead of trying to defend yourself off the bat, hear them out.
How do you respond when someone calls you out? Do you get defensive, shut down or hear them out?
How is it loving for God to discipline us?

Prayer: Pray for God to give you the humility to accept discipline from others. Pray to see the value in discipline and the ability to apply it to your life.

Day 3

Text: Galatians 4:21-31

Today's text is one that, at face value, can appear to be a little odd. However, with some context, it comes together. Paul is speaking to Chrisitans here who are struggling with the Law, meaning they thought that they had to do work or be “good enough” on their own to get to God. Paul equates this with being under bondage, meaning that this way of thinking is burdensome for people. Paul reminds the Chrisitans that they are no longer under the bondage of a bunch of laws, but that they are free in Christ. This does not mean they can do whatever they want to do. Rather, it means that Christians today are free from having to do works to earn their salvation. Our salvation only comes from the free gift of Jesus through the cross. God does not want our outward works to appear to be a good person; He wants our hearts. Have you given Him yours?

Application/Reflection Questions:

Do you feel like you have to do works to please God?
Stop and reflect on the gift of salvation through faith. How do faith and works coincide together in Christianity? (Hint: read James 2.)
How does salvation through faith set Christianity apart from other religions?

Prayer: In your prayer this morning, praise God for the fact that we are no longer under the Law. take a moment and reflect on the work that Jesud did so that we can be saved by faith alone.

Day 4

Text: Galatians 5:1-6

Remember our study yesterday on Galatians 4:21-31? Well, this passage is referring back to that one. Paul told the people that they are free in Christ and are no longer living under the law, meaning that people don't have to work for their salvation. We do not have to please God by being a “good person.” With that being established, we come to our text today. Paul is reminding the people and telling them that, as a result of Jesus setting us free from the law, we should live in that. We no longer need to live in a legalistic relationship with God; we can live in a free one through Christ. Jesus has given us the gift of freedom, but we have to do something with it. Paul says that, if we are legalistic in our relationship with God, then we don't need Jesus. We wouldn't need a Savior if we had to work. Therefore, we should walk in confidence knowing that we are free from the Law in Christ and that we shouldn't have the thought or attitude that we have to earn God’s grace.

Application/Reflection Questions:

Do you tend to think you have to please God with your actions? Why do you think humans feel this way?
How can you be confident and live in the fact that Jesus has set us free from the Law?
Explore the idea of faith. Look through the Bible in places like Hebrews 11 on what exactly faith in Christ means.

Prayer: Pray for God to lead you and give you discernment on what it looks like to live in freedom. Ask God to lead you away from the yoke of slavery (legalism) and to live in faith.

Day 5

Text: Galatians 5:7-12

God is a God of unity and order. God wants things to be in place and not have divisive elements in them. People in the Galatian church were being divisive and leading people astray from the truth of the gospel. Paul calls these people out and tells the Christians that those who are being divisive are not from God. And he says that even a small division can lead to a big issue in the church. Paul calls out those who are divisive as it is a hindrance to the church’s effectiveness and its growth. No one is as effective when they are divided in comparison to when they are united. As Christians, it is ok for us to disagree on certain issues, but we must be willing to work through them and find common ground. We must stay united for the sake of the advancement of the gospel.

Application/Reflection Questions:

What are some divisions in the church today?
How have you seen those impact the church’s ability to be effective and united?
How can you bring unity into the church and not division?

Prayer: Pray for God to make Church at The Mill a united church. May we not be divided over silly small issues, but rather may we see the importance of the gospel and allow that to be our uniting factor. Pray for God to reveal any disunity in your own heart, if you have been someone causing disunity. And, if you have, ask the Lord for forgiveness.

WEEK 6: June 3-7

JOURNEY THROUGH GALATIANS: PART 3 | This is our last week in Galatians! As Paul wraps up his letter, let’s take a look at some very practical and important verses of Scripture together!

Day 1

Text: Galatians 5:13-15

Over the last few studies, we have been learning about how Christ has set us free. Because of what Christ has done for us on the cross, He set us free from the law established in the Old Testament. This does not mean that none of the law applies to us. Rather, we are no longer bound by the law. This means that we no longer have to follow food laws, for example. With that established, Paul makes it clear to the believers they should not abuse their new freedom in Christ. Rather, they should use their freedom for the edification (or the building up of) other believers.

Application/Reflection Questions:

What does it mean that we are set free in Christ?
What are some freedoms we have in Christ?
How can you leverage your freedoms in Christ to build others up?
Take a moment today to slow down and reflect on what Jesus did for us. Never become numb to the weight of sin and the cross.

Prayer:

Thank God for sending Christ to set us free from the Law. Ask Him to lead you and guide you to how to use your freedom to help others.

Day 2

Text: Galatians 5:16-24

Today we are studying one of the most famous New Testament passages, the Fruit of the Spirit. There are nine attributes of the Fruit of the Spirit which can be found in verse 22. There are two key features for us to see today. The first is that as seen in verse 22; it is the “Fruit” (which is singular) of the Spirit. This means, as Christians, we are called to be full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. We cannot say that we are good at “love,” but not good at “patience.” We are called to strive to grow in each of these areas. The Fruit of the Spirit is embodying each of these attributes. The second key that we should see out of this text is that when we are walking by the Fruit of the Spirit, seeking Christ, we will no longer gratify the desires of our flesh (sin).

Application/Reflection Questions:

How would you explain the Fruit of the Spirit to another Christian?
What are the attributes of the Fruit of the Spirit you can work on?
How does pursuing the Fruit of the Spirit help you walk with the Lord?

Prayer: Ask God to grow you in the Fruit of the Spirit. Thank Him for the opportunity to grow in your relationship with Him. Pray to walk by the Spirit and to no longer walk in the ways of the flesh.

Day 3

Text: Galatians 5:25-26

In life, many people will tell you to be proud of or confident in yourself. And, although there is a difference between being confident and being arrogant, confidence can often turn into arrogance. Paul is warning against that here. He has just established the necessity to walk in the Spirit in everyday life. However, he can see that some may become arrogant in their walks with the Lord. Some may think that they are better because they are “closer” to the Lord…or that they read their Bibles more. Paul is warning against such arrogance. Therefore, we should take Paul’s command here seriously and watch our spiritual pride.

Application/Reflection Questions:

How can people be prideful in their spiritual lives?
How can you be prideful in your spiritual life?
How can a believer pursue humility in his walk with the Lord?

Prayer: Repent for any arrogance or pride that you have had in your spiritual life. Pray for God to grant you humility and to always remember that He is the one who gets the glory, not us. Pray that God would give you accountability in your life against pride in your walk.

Day 4

Text: Galatians 6:1-5

The Christian life is not something that is meant to be done alone. In fact, throughout Scripture there is an emphasis on doing the Christian life in community (1 Cor. 1:10, James 5:16, Prov. 27:17, Romans 12:16). In our text today, Paul is giving instructions for what to do when one person in the community falls into sin. Paul says the person must be restored (meaning forgiven) and lifted up with gentleness (a part of the Fruit of the Spirit from day 2). This does not mean that we should let people sin and not say anything or approve of their sin. Rather, we should approach them with love, calling them out and lifting them up, remembering that we ourselves are sinners. That is why, in verse 3, Paul warns of not thinking too highly of ourselves. We should never think that we are a “better Christian” or “more spiritual” because someone else fell into a sin that we didn’t. In fact, we should do what verse 1 says and keep watch on ourselves, lest we ourselves fall into temptation also.

Application/Reflection Questions:

Why is it important to call out sin in others' lives?
How can you, with gentleness, “restore” someone who fell into sin?
How can we keep watch on ourselves to not fall into temptation?

Prayer: Praise God for who He is, what He has done, and for the fact that we can even be restored at all by the power of the cross. Ask God to give you a Spirit of gentleness and wisdom so that, if a friend falls, you may lead them to restoration correctly. Also, pray that God would give you wisdom and strength to keep a close watch on your own spiritual life.

Day 5

Text: Galatians 6:6-10

Paul continues his idea of what it looks like to live in Christian community. Here, specifically in verses 6-10, he is talking about supporting those in ministry. Paul makes the point that ministers/pastors help others in their spiritual walks. Therefore, they should be supported financially by those who they are helping. Paul makes the point that, when someone gives financially to help the ministry, he is not just giving money away, but rather paving a path for pastors and ministers to be able to do ministry. These people are helping sow seeds of the gospel. That is why Paul says one will reap what he sows. But this principle can also be applied to every aspect of our lives. What we sow in our lives (meaning the things that we do) and the actions we take have results or consequences. If we do things for Christ, there will be good results for ministry purposes. But, if we do everything for ourselves and our own desires, then we will only reap things that really dont matter. That is why it is far more worth living a holy and worthy life for the gospel than living a self-centered life.

Application/Reflection Questions:

Why is it important to support those in ministry?
How can you, as a teen, support those in ministry, even if it is not with money?
How can we “do good” to everyone like verse 10 tells us?

Prayer: Ask God to show you how you can give back to ministries now, even if you cannot do it with money. Ask the Lord to lead you to have a heart that desires the same things that God wants.

WEEK 7: June 10-14

EXPLORING EPHESIANS | We have now taken a whole trip through the book of Galatians! We hope that, through reading it and working on this quiet time, you remember that your faith is a big deal! We have been praying for you! Now it’s time to switch gears, finish the book of Galatians, and then head right into Ephesians. Take some time before starting this week and check out the Bible Project video below. It is a good resource to get a quick overview of Ephesians before starting your study!

BIBLE PROJECT VIDEO

Day 1

Text: Galatians 6:11-18

Paul’s final word to the Galatians is literally written in LARGE LETTERS for emphasis! Hey. look here! Make sure you see this! Paul warns them in verses 12-13 about those who only care about their religion in an outward showing. Their desire is to be recognized for their religion but not live it out. Then, in v. 14-15 Paul shares about the difference in his life, that his life in all reality is only centered around Christ and that should be his identity. After a weighty letter, Paul ends with a benediction that the Galatians would experience the grace of Jesus instead of relying, once again, on their works.

Application/Reflection Questions:

What is the difference between outward religion and inward devotion? (Look at the difference in verses 12-13 and 14-15.)
What identifies you as a Christian? Think more than just church attendance or reading your Bible. How do people see Jesus in you?
What is the most impactful lesson you have learned from doing quiet times in Galatians?

Prayer: Pray that your relationship with Christ would be focused on your inward devotion to him instead of playing a part. Pray that your life would be an example to those around you on the outside!

Day 2

Don’t forget to check out the Bible Project Video before heading into the Ephesians quiet time!

Text: Ephesians 1:1-14

Paul begins his letter to the Ephesians by recognizing the blessing that Christ has poured out. Paul ascribes Jesus glory and praise and speaks of the redemption through the blood of Christ. Paul also reminds the Ephesians that they should be “holy and blameless” because of the relationship that they have with Christ. Really focus on verse 10 as Paul explains the goal which was “set forth in Christ” to unify all things in Him! Paul ends this passage by reminding believers of the inheritance in heaven that awaits them.

Application/ Reflection Questions:

What is a way that you feel like you have been blessed by Christ? Take some time to think of at least two tangible ways you have been blessed (e.g. family, church, etc.) and two spiritual ways you have been blessed. (check out verses 3-10 to help you out!)
What is the inheritance Paul speaks of for believers?
What praise could give to God because of the blessings in your life?

Prayer: Pray that you never forget the blessings that God has given you and the sacrifice for your adoption in Jesus Christ. Take those praises you wrote down in question three and give them to God now!

Day 3

Text: Ephesians 1:15-23

Paul switches from speaking about the Spiritual blessings of Christ to praying over the Ephesians. He gives thanksgiving to Christ for the work that has been done through the Ephesians and for their faith and love for believers. Paul’s prayer asks God to continue to reveal to the Ephesians His glory and plan, literally saying to open the eyes of their hearts to see Him. (Does anyone remember that song? Michael W. Smith, “Open The Eyes of My Heart.”) He speaks once again of the inheritance of the saints, then spends verses 20-23 speaking of the role of Christ and His power now.

Reflection/Application:

Do you think it is special when someone else prays for you (or when you pray for someone else)? Think of it as someone going before the throne room of God for you! That's a big deal! Take some time to write down a few names of people who you can pray for or thank God for today.
What are your thoughts about the inheritance you receive as a Christian?
Now look at how Paul describes the inheritance. “The hope to which he called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance in the saints.” As you read those words, remember that our inheritance is something to have joy about! It's a future hope that can’t be taken away!

Prayer: Thank God for some people in your life who live out their relationships with Christ in front of you! Now Thank God for the inheritance that is before you, that it would give you hope everyday, and that you would remember how great a gift that inheritance truly is.

Day 4

Text: Ephesians 2:1-7

Paul begins chapter 2 by reminding the Ephesians of their past lives, living dead in their sins and the way they were living their lives. They were letting their lives be controlled by their flesh and were in a pretty dire situation. BUT GOD. Paul then sheds light on the change that happened in their lives because of the mercy of Jesus and His great love. The transformation from death in their sin to life in Christ is celebrated. And, as believers, we will be seated in heavenly places with Jesus. Paul desires for believers to remember their place because of Christ.

Reflection/Application:

What does it mean to be dead in our sins? Were we all dead in our sins at one point? How do we gain new life (verse 4-5)?
What is the difference between living in the world and the Word? How can we pursue living in the Word more consistently?
What can we do to honor God in all we do and not fall into sin?

Prayer: Pray that you don’t fall into sin, that you honor God with every single breath, and that you honor God with all that you do.

Day 5

Text: Ephesians 2:8-10

Paul reminds the Ephesians of God’s grace that has overflowed in us. Paul says that the only thing we can boast in is God, because it's not a result of our own works that we are saved. God created you for His purpose. He already has a plan for you that you were created for good works! God asks that you seek His will and make Him the center of your life.

Reflection/Application:

If we can not boast of ourselves in our salvation, who do we boast in? Why?
If we were created for “good works,” how do you think God can use your passions for His plan?
It is by grace that we are saved and it is a gift from God, how can you share that gift with others?

Prayer: Ask God to show you His will for you and that your purpose would line up with His plan for your life. Pray for opportunities to grow and to use your gifts for His purpose.

WEEK 8: June 17-21

EXPLORING EPHESIANS: PART 2 | This week we will be continuing our study through the book of Ephesians! There is a lot to unpack and a lot of deep theology in the verses this week. But don't let that scare you; in fact, let it be an encouragement!

Day 1

Text: Ephesians 2:11-22

Through the Old Testament and parts of the New Testament, the divide between the Jews and the Gentiles was obvious. The Jews were a part of the nation of Israel and were God’s chosen people. God moved and did His work through the nation of Israel. The Gentiles (everyone who was not a Jew), however, were completely cut off from God. They served other gods and were not a part of Israel, God’s chosen people. However, when Christ came, He changed everything. The death that Christ died not only offered salvation for Jews, but Gentiles also. And this is a big deal for us! Because unless you are reading this and your family is ethnically Jewish, you, by nature, are a Gentile. Therefore, Christ came and offered not only salvation to Jews but also to all Gentiles. Christ offers salvation to everyone, regardless of their ethnicity.

Reflection/Application:

What is the difference between Jew and a Gentile? How is this seen in the Old and New Testaments?
Why is it important that Christ offered salvation to everyone, not only to Israel?
Think about some people who you know are not saved. How can you take this text to encourage them that Christ offers salvation to them?

Prayer: Thank God for the fact that He offers salvation to everyone through Christ. Pray that Christ would use you to see others come to faith in Him.

Day 2

Text: Ephesians 3:1-13

In church today, it is normal to say that the gospel is for everyone, that church is for everyone, and that Jesus is for everyone. However, this has not always been the case. During the time of Jesus, there was a very big divide between Jews and Gentiles. As discussed on day one, the Gentiles were not considered a part of God’s family like the Jews were. Therefore, the mystery that Paul is talking about and explains in verse 6 is that the Gentiles are not just a part of the family, but actually fellow heirs and members of the same body. The mystery of the faith is that Jesus did not come to just save Jews; Jesus came to save everyone. Paul is explaining this to those in Ephesus. This is what his ministry is about: telling Gentiles that they are included in the family of God.

Reflection/Application:

Why do you think that it was so hard for Jews to accept Gentiles coming into the family of God?
How can we be like the Jews and not want others to come into the family of God? Do you truly want everyone to be saved? Even the girl that you don't like or the annoying guy from math class?
How is the “mystery of faith” an encouragement to us?

Prayer: Thank God again for the fact that Christ came to save Jews AND Gentiles. Pray that you can have the same heart as Paul and press on in evangelizing and telling others about Christ, even in the face of persecution.

Day 3

Text: Ephesians 3:14-21

These verses today are some of the most powerful in all of Scripture. They are Paul’s prayer for spiritual strength. He is praying for the believers and that they may have spiritual strength for the purpose of them being rooted and grounded in love. Paul wants to see the believers have a solid and real relationship with Jesus Christ. Paul knows that believers were created to have a real relationship with Jesus, know the love of Christ, and see the fullness of God. Paul ends this beautiful prayer in verses 20-21 by giving praise and glory to God. Paul wants Christ to work in the church. He also wants to see Christ be glorified above all else in all generations and for all of time.

Reflection/Application:

How is your prayer life? Take a moment and reflect on where your prayer life is.
Do you pray Scripture when you pray? If not, find some passages that you can pray to God. For example, Ephesians 3:14-21, Psalm 90, Colossians 1:17, Psalm 147, or Psalm 23.
Take some time to block out time in your schedule to pray everyday. It doesn't have to be 4 hours; start with 5 minutes a day!

Prayer: Today take some time and pray the same prayer that Paul did.

Day 4

Text: Ephesians 4:1-16

The church is not just a random group of people. Rather, it is a group of people connected in the most unique way possible – their relationship with Jesus. Paul here urges the church members in Ephesus to live their lives in a way that is worthy of the Lord. He is urging them to live a life of obedience to Christ, a life that is pleasing to Christ. He goes on to explain why. It is because the church is like a body. So the goal of the individual Christian is to mature as others mature around them. As more and more mature, the whole body of Christ (the church) is more equipped to do the work of ministry more effectively.

Reflection/Application:

How can you walk in a manner worthy of the Lord?
How does the church function as a body?
How can we “grow up” in Christ and become mature believers?
How can you implement the answers from the previous question into your everyday life?

Prayer: Pray and ask God to lead you to be able to live a life worthy of Him. Pray that God would mature you so that you can better serve and love the body of Christ as a whole. Ask God to reveal areas of your life in which you can grow.

Day 5

Text: Ephesians 4:17-24

Paul is calling out those who are believers in Ephesus but are not living like it. Paul calls them to no longer live like the Gentiles who live in the futility of their minds. This means they live and do what they want to do and do not live according to Christ. Paul reminds the believers that disobedience is not what Christ has called them to. Rather, Christ calls believers to put off their old selves, meaning to stop living in their sin, and put on Christ. Believers are to pursue Christ and grow in their sanctification, living a life as they were designed to do.

Reflection/Application:

What are areas of your life where it is easy to slip into living in your “old self”?
How can you put off the old self and put on the new self?
What does a life that is renewed in the Spirit look like?

Prayer: Pray for God to give you wisdom and discernment regarding your sanctification. Pray that God would help you in putting on the new self and putting off the old self. Pray that God would lead you in being able to discover and live out a life worthy of the Lord.

WEEK 9: June 24-28

EXPLORING EPHESIANS: PART 3 | We are almost all the way through Ephesians already! We pray that Ephesians has been an encouragement to you as we have walked through it. As we jump into this week, Paul continues his letter to the Ephesians to steer them to a life that honors Christ. Lock in and hold your friends accountable in their quiet times as well as we finish out this quiet time guide!

Day 1

Text: Ephesians 4:25-32

This passage is written on the conduct of a man who has had their life changed by Christ. As you read, you will see Paul call the Ephesians to not live in a life with lying, anger, stealing, and corrput speach just to name a few. But the whole list comes together in verse 32 at the very end as Paul is speaking about forgiveness, “forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” This whole list is qualified by the fact that Christ had first shown us love before we ever knew Him. Remember that as your read this list and be honest about the parts of this list that you struggle with!

Reflection/Application:

From this list that Paul gives, what is the emotion/action that you struggle with the most and why?
As a believer why do you think it is important for you to aware of how you act?
What does it mean to you that Jesus forgave your first?

Prayer: Pray that God would illuminate any of the struggles of this list in your life to you. Pray that you would remember how Christ has paved the way for you to live in a way that honors Him and what he has done for you!

Day 2

Text: Ephesians 5:1-21

As we move into chapter five, Paul continues his encouragement to believers about the lifestyle they are living. He also references the sacrifice Christ has made for us that allows us to live lives that are different. Paul ends the passage by alluding to the fact that Christians are called to lives of selfless submission to each other out of reverence for Christ. The beginning of thechapter makes it clear that living a life that stems from the love that Christ has for us is our calling.

Reflection/Application:

What does it mean to “walk in love”? (Look at the second part of verse 2; think about how Christ has loved us.)
How can you be careful about the way you live your life (as Paul encourages in verse 15)? What are some practical ways you can live that out?
What does having reverence for Christ mean? Why would that change the way you live if you had reverence for Christ?

Prayer: Thank God for the love that has been poured out for you through Christ. Identify a sin in your life that you are struggling with, ask Christ to help you run away from it, and to live a life in reverence of Him!

Day 3

Text: Ephesians 5:22-33

If you already read the subheading in your Bible about this passage, I know what you are thinking. Why in the world are we reading about marriage in a student Bible study? #1 It’s God’s Word! And, as we learned in the first two weeks, all of it is good for us! So we are gonna continue through EVERY verse of Ephesians. #2 It's great for you to learn what God says about relationships instead of what the world paints a picture of for you. #3 As we will learn in this passage today, the relationship of a husband and wife is a model of the union between Jesus and the Church. As you read today, remember that God has ordained relationships in this way for a reason. Seek to understand first the love that Christ has for the Church and the way the Church submits to Him; then spend some time thinking through the calling for husbands and wives! If you have any questions about this passage, make sure to ask an adult, small group leader, or your student pastor! We would be more than happy to talk!

Reflection/Application:

Do you think the love of Christ makes a difference in relationships? Why do you think that is?
Paul instructs a husband to love his wife as himself. Why is it so hard to love someone as much as we love ourselves?
After reading this passage, what are three words you would use to describe the love that Christ has for the Church?

Prayer: Thank God for couples in your life that show you how Jesus has made the difference in their relationships. Think of one or two and thank God for them by name! Give thanks for the love that Christ has for the Church. Give Him praise with the words you used to describe that love. Lastly, pray for your future relationships: that they would be honoring to Christ and that they would fully represent that union between Him and the Church.

Day 4

Text: Ephesians 6:1-4

Parents are going to love this one! Sorry students, but it is time to get real about what scripture says about your relationship with those who are in authority over you. God gave you trustworthy adults in some shape, form, or fashion in your life. Whether it be your parents, teachers, small group leader, etc., God gave them to you to help you grow. You will never be able to fully obey God if you cannot obey authority around you in your life. God has called you and commanded you (literally in the Ten Commandments) to honor your father and mother/authority in your life. Please understand this: You will never automatically come to be all that God wants you to be without adults who God has put in your life to help you along the way. As you read today, take a deep breath. If you are mad at your parents or other authority figures in your life, put that to the side for a second and look at what God’s Word calls you to do.

Reflection/Application:

Look at verse 4. What is the parents’ role in their relationship with their child?
Understanding the parents’ role that God has called them to, what is the best way that you can honor your father and mother?
Take some time to write some reasons you are thankful for your parents/parent figures in your life. Then, make sure to tell them!!!!!

Prayer: Take some time to pray for your parents today! Pray a prayer of thankfulness over them. Pray that you fulfill your role as a child and that you honor them with your steps!

Day 5

Text: Ephesians 6:5-9

When I used to work in a hardware store, one of my least favorite tasks was to stack concrete. When I had to do that, I always had such negative body language and attitude. I never realized how my attitude while I worked throughout the day could have such a profound effect on the people around me. I didn’t realize how to truly honor God until a time in college when I read and understood this passage from Paul. This week ends with a reminder to believers that it is our relationship with Christ that should drive our work ethic. It reminds us that our work can and should be done as if we are working for Jesus! We do not work as only seeking to please whomever we are working for; when we work, we realize that we do it for the Lord as well. Your attitude and how you work matters as a follower of Christ!

Reflection/Application:

What is a job that you do not like doing? What kind of body language do you portray when you have to do something you do not like?
Do you think people find you joyous when you have to do a task you do not like?
As a representative of Christ in everything that we do as believers, how should you respond to having to work or do tasks that you do not like? Remember that there are always people watching you!

Prayer: Thank God for everything you’ve learned through the quiet time this semester. Pray for other people going through this quiet time and that they also grow from it. Lastly, pray that your attitude and work ethic would reflect Christ in all that you do! Give Him a word of praise and affection!!

WEEK 10: July 1-5

FROM EPHESUS TO PHILIPPI | This week we will wrap up Ephesians and start our study through Philippians! Both of these letters have so much to offer and teach us so much about how to live our Christian walk!

Day 1

Text: Ephesians 6:10-20

This is a very powerful passage. Paul calls his readers to be strong in the Lord and rely on God’s armor and God’s strength, not their own strength. We simply are not strong enough to fight against the schemes of the devil, but, by putting on God’s armor, we are able to withstand whatever the devil shall throw our way, if we remain in the Lord. The imagery of a belt, breastplate, shoes, shield, helmet, and sword all to protect and strengthen us as we fight and aim to withstand the attacks of the enemy is beautiful here. We must realize that there will be battles for us to fight as followers of Jesus; these battles are not with flesh and blood as Paul says, but with spiritual forces of evil. We must clothe ourselves with God’s armor as we walk with Jesus every single day!

Reflection/Application:

What does it look like to practically put on the armor of God every single day?
What role does the word of God play when it comes to putting on the armor of God?
How can you boldly proclaim the gospel like Paul was doing while in prison?

Prayer: Thank God for his Word and for the strength He can supply to fill our weaknesses. Ask God that He would show you what it means to be strong in Him and rely on His armor to protect you from the schemes of the devil. The devil is after you, and he does not want you to find your strength in God. Pray and ask for strength and protection!

Day 2

Text: Ephesians 6:21-24

We are to encourage one another as brothers and sisters in Christ. It is important to share with each other how we are doing in all areas of our lives, but especially spiritually. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we can encourage those who are struggling and help push each other forward as we grow closer and closer. We are created to be in community and uplift one another.

Reflection/Application:

Why is community important as followers of Christ?
How can you grow in community and communication with your brothers and sisters in Christ this week?
What has God taught you after reading through Ephesians?

Prayer: Thank God for the community He has placed around you and pray for a stronger community of believers around you. Ask God to bring relationships into your life that are God-honoring and that encourage you as you grow in your relationship with Christ.

Day 3

Text: Philippians 1:1-11

Philippians is one of four “prison epistles.” This means that this letter is one of four that Paul wrote while he was in prison. With this in mind, it changes how we read Paul's letter. Here Paul is giving thanks for the Christians in Philippi. He is beyond thankful and this is causing him to pray that they continue to do God’s work and give all glory to the Lord. Remember that Paul is doing all of this in prison. This serves as a great example to us of how to live a life on mission and with joy through every circumstance.

Application/Reflection Questions:

How does your mindset compare to Paul’s during hard situations?
What does it look like to have the affection of Christ for others?
As Paul is in prison, he shows gratitude towards Christ. What are practical ways to show gratitude while facing adversity?

Prayer: Pray for strength to always be able to stand strong in your faith during times of despair.

Day 4

Text: Philippians 1:12-18

Paul is in prison and explaining the bad things in his life that have been used to glorify God. Being in prison gave him the opportunity to teach prisoners about God and to make others bold in Christ. Others were preaching Christ for other reasons, such as personal gain. In verse 18, Paul is focused on the advancement of the gospel and he says the most important thing is that Christ is being preached, not other people's motives.

Application / Reflection Questions:

What is holding you back from teaching others about God?
How can you reach others through hardships you’ve been through?
Do you let your emotions take hold of you during hardships?What emotions should drive our actions?

Prayer: Pray for God to open your eyes during hardships to help spread the Word.

Day 5

Text: Philippians 1:19-26

Have you ever met someone who was so focused on what their purpose in life was? Have you ever met someone who did not lose sight of what is really important, but remained in step with why they were doing what they were doing? In the passage you read today, you see how Paul was only focused on honoring Christ, whether by his life or by his death. He knew it would be better for him to die and be with Christ because of the joy that would come from it. He would be free from the chains he was in, and he also knew that, if he died, then he would be able to experience Christ more fully. If Paul were to continue to live, he could do more work for Christ and help others progress in their faith. Paul knew that it would be better for him to live and be a benefit to those who needed him. Paul knew his mission, and he was willing to do whatever it took to honor Christ.

Reflection/Application:

How are you going to honor Christ with your life?
What does it look like for you to have the same attitude as Paul here in this passage when he says “to live is Christ and to die is gain”?
How are you going to encourage and lift up those who are younger in the faith like Paul did?

Prayer: Thank God for the gift of eternal life with Jesus, and thank God for the mission and purpose He gives us while on this earth. Ask God to give you boldness in honoring Christ and boldness in sharing the Gospel just like Paul.

WEEK 11: July 8-12

Tour through Philippians |This week, we will go through the meat of Philippians. Seeing the encouragement that Paul had for the believers and how it is still applicable to us today.

Day 1

Text: Philippians 1:27-30

Paul is encouraging the believers in Philippi to live out their faith. That their faith should not just be something that they say or do on a certain day, but something that is a regular part of their lives. In verse 27 Paul gives a very important charge. He says to live a life worthy of the gospel. This same charge is given to us today, we as believers are to live our lives worthy of the gospel. This means living in a way that honors Jesus, not just at church, not just at home but in every aspect of your life. This looks like pursuing after Christ in a daily relationship with him and growing in your sanctification. This means that even when things get hard like Paul says they will in verse 28-30 that we will still live a strong and determined life to be more like Christ.

Reflection/Application:

What does it mean to live a life worthy of the gospel?
How can you live a life worthy of the gospel?
What is the importance of community in living a life worthy of the gospel?

Prayer: Pray that God would walk alongside you and lead you as your walk in a manner worthy of the gospel. Ask him to reveal to you areas of your life which you need to grow in. Ask God to make you more like Jesus every single day.

Day 2

Text: Philippians 2:1-11

Our verses today are some of the most famous and important in all of Scripture. This is known as the Christ hymn. It is believed that verses 6-11 were an early church hymn that they would sing much like we sing worship songs today. Here, we see the example of Christ's humility. That Jesus did not see his position as something he could take advantage of. Rather, he saw an opportunity, despite the fact that he was equal to God, to serve God. So he humbled himself and came to earth for our sake. It was here that he became a servant and died for you and I. The thing is though that he did not deserve to die that death at all. But he did it because he wanted a relationship with us in spite of our sin.

Reflection/Application:

Take some time and read over this passage a few times. Ask God to teach you something different every time.
Notice the humility of Christ. Think about the result of Christ humility. Why is the humility of Christ important for us today?
Christ saw himself as a servant to others. How can we take that same attitude? We obviously cannot die and resurrect for others' sins, but we can be a servant. What does this look like in everyday life?

Prayer: Praise God for who he is and what he has done. Praise him for his humility and the suffering that he had to go through for our sake. Then ask God to give us that same heart posture. That our heart would be the same as Christ’s, one of humility and servitude before anything else.

Day 3

Text: Philippians 2:12-18.

Paul is continuing his thought from verses 1-11. Paul encourages the believers to not only live a humbled life but to work out their salvation with fear and trembling. There are a few things that should be noted here. What Paul is NOT saying is that you have to work for your salvation. He is also not saying that we should have a fear of the Lord that makes us terrified of him like God is a scary clown. Rather we should have a healthy respect and awe for the Lord. We should have reverence for who God Is And what he has done which should drive us to dive deeper in our faith and know more about him. Paul encourages the believers to be lights in the world and to live out their faith even though Paul isn't there.

Reflection/Application:

What does it mean to workout your salvation with fear and trembling?
What does it look like to have a healthy fear of the Lord?
Why is it important that we are blameless and innocent children of God in the midst of a crooked and twisted generation?

Prayer: Pray that the Lord would give you a healthy fear of Him to you. That you would have a correct reverence and awe of who the Lord is and what he Has done. Pray that as a result of that you would be able to live a life that is holy and acceptable to the Lord in all that you do.

Day 4

Text: Philippians 2:19-30

Paul has just instructed the believers about how to live in Christ humility and how to work out their salvation with fear and trembling. Then it seems odd for him to just switch and start talking about Timothy and Epaphroditus. But the reason Paul did this is that these two men serve as great examples of what Paul is trying to teach the believers. The men that Paul was sending to Philippi were men that served as lights to the believers that they were going to help.

Reflection/Application:

Why is it important for us to not just talk about our faith but to live it out?
Who are people in your life who live our their faith day in and day out?
Find someone if you do not already have someone in your life who is older than you and is a good example of living out their faith. Ask them to meet with you and teach you / disciple you in your faith.

Prayer: Pray that you would be someone who not only talks about your faith but actually lives it out. That you can serve as an encouragement to others through your obedience to God in all that you do.

Day 5

Text: Philippians 3:1-3:11

Today we come to a powerful text written by Paul. He starts by warning the believers against those who will try to deceive them, specifically back into Jewish ways. Paul makes it clear that if anyone has any room to boast about being a Jew he has more. But then he says that he counts all of his accolades as nothing for the purpose of knowing Christ. Paul says in verser 8 that he counts everything as loss for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ. This is a powerful verse. That there is a suprasing worth to knowing Christ above everything else. That at the end of the day everything else is futile in comparison to knowing Jesus.

Reflection/Application:

What does the surpassing worth of knowing Christ mean?
What are areas of your life that you find it hard to see the surpassing worth of Christ. For example do you take your athletics or academics more seriously than your relationship with Jesus?
How can you show others the surpassing worth of knowing Christ?

Prayer: Ask God that he would show you the surpassing worth of knowing Christ every day. That above all else you would see that Jesus is better. And that as a result you would pursue after him with everything you have day in and day out.

WEEK 12: July 15-19

THE FINAL COUNTDOWN | It’s the last week of our Summer Quiet Time Guide! We are so proud of you if you have made it this far, or even if you joined along for the ride at some point! Having a healthy quiet time routine will be one of the greatest decisions and benefits of your life! Make this week your best week yet. Use all the things you have learned this Summer to really dig in and experience God’s Word! We love you and are praying for you!

Day 1

Text: Philippians 4:2-9

There are many times we feel anxious about our lives, problems, or particular situations. Are you talking to your friends about it more than you pray about it to God? What’s the hold up? Prayer is a way of communicating with God. The Lord wants to know and hear your every thought. In verse nine, it says “do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”

This is an encouragement, because the anxiety that comes from the world is something we don't have to carry; we have a God who we can communicate with and tell directly what is causing us to worry, be uneasy, or feel uncertain. Be anxious for nothing, pray about anything, and be thankful for everything!

Reflection/Application:

Why might it be difficult for you to go to the Lord in prayer?
Why do you think it is important to go to the Lord in prayer?
What might you be anxious about that you need to give in prayer to the Lord?

Prayer: Spend some time with the Lord in prayer, asking Him to give you confidence to go to Him in any situation and tell Him directly what you want. Also ask for the Lord to speak to you, and listen for His voice.

Day 2

Text: Philippians 4:10-23

Sometimes we face difficult situations in life. When Paul was writing this letter to the Church in Philippi, he was in prison! Paul was imprisoned in Rome for his faith. Maybe we haven’t quite gone through something exactly like Paul, but all of us have faced tough times, haven’t we? Even in the toughest times, Paul was able to stay content in any situation.

Reflection/Application:

What do you think it means to be content?
What was the source of Paul’s contentment? (Read verses 11-13.)
How can we be content in every situation?

Prayer: Think through what you are thankful for, and give thanks to the Lord for those things! Pray that you find contentment in Him in the good times, as well as the bad. Ask Him to help you to keep your focus on Him.

Day 3

Text: Jeremiah 29:12-14

Have you ever had the thought, “I just feel like God is speaking to me…I just can’t feel His presence?” It is safe to say that most Christians have had this thought at some point in their walks with Christ. For most of us, it comes early in our walks with Jesus. We get the feeling of “Woe is me! God just isn’t speaking to me right now.” This could not be more wrong!

These verses in Jeremiah 29 debunk this thought of God not speaking to us and placing the blame on Him. In these verses, God promises us that He will draw near to us if we draw near to Him. Verses 12 and 13 tell us that, if we will seek God in prayer, then He will hear us. When we seek Him with our whole hearts, then we will find Him! Do not seek Him only on Wednesday nights or Sunday mornings, but with our WHOLE heart! An easy way of assessing if you are seeking God with your whole heart is with your quiet times. How often are you spending time with God?

Reflection/Application:

How often do you read your Bible and spend time with God in prayer?
Do you feel God’s presence in your life? If the answer is no, then you may not be seeking Him with your whole heart.
What is the hardest part of pursuing God for you personally? What can you do to help you grow past this?

Prayer: Take time to pray and ask God to allow you to give an honest self-reflection of your relationship with Him. Are you making Him a priority and spending time with Him consistently? Pray for friends/leaders in your life to come alongside you to help you grow in your relationship with the Lord.

Day 4

Text: Titus 2:11-15

Many of us believe that God’s grace is something we could not earn or have not earned. We know and believe that salvation is a free gift of God offered to all people who call on His name, and we do not have to work to earn His favor. Praise God for His gift of unearned grace!

But many of us also struggle daily with sin and doubt, knowing that we are rightly expected to live “a life worthy of the gospel” (Phil. 1:27), but falling short of this daily calling. How can we grow in godliness after we have received the grace of God? Titus 2:11-15 teaches us that “the grace of God has appeared bringing salvation to all people,” and that this grace we have received is actively “training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions.” In the same way that God’s grace provides a way for salvation, it also teaches us how to live “godly lives in the present age.” God’s grace saves us, and God’s grace trains us to lead godly lives. Thank the Lord, He does not leave us to learn this ourselves!

Reflection/Application:

In what areas of your life do you struggle to “live self-controlled, upright, and godly” life ?
What does verse 14 reassure us that Jesus has already done?
Is there any part of your walk with Jesus that has gotten easier or simpler since you started walking with Him? Is there anything in your life that you can ask His help with today?

Prayer: Take some time today to thank God for all that He has done for you in Christ. This verse says that His grace has provided salvation for all people; that His grace trains us to renounce ungodliness, to joyfully anticipate His coming glory. It says that He “gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for Himself a people for His own possession.” Think of all that He has done for you, both on the cross and in your individual life, and praise Him for it. And, in light of all that He has done and the immense love He has for you, ask Him how might you grow in holiness today as you walk with Him.

Day 5

Text: Hebrews 10:23-25

As you prepare for Summer camp, think about those you will be interacting with. Focus on the relationships that you can make at camp and the bonds you can build. The value of close friendships that push you closer to Jesus can not be overstated. Without the help of friends to hold you accountable and keep you on track during the tough times, it can be easy to fall out of the rhythm of following Jesus. As the author of Hebrews encourages his readers to not neglect meeting together and to be aware of how you can stir one another on to good works, we must take his words very seriously as we live this life. You are not meant to walk through this life alone. Friendships and relationships that keep you rooted in your faith are essential and rewarding. Pursue these friendships at camp and as you begin this next school year!

Reflection/Application:

What is one relationship you are going to intentionally invest time in at camp?
If you already have community and solid friendships, how can you bring in others to help those who need to be connected and encouraged in their faith?
As the school year starts in a few weeks, how will you make sure you find community so you stay rooted in your faith?

Prayer: Ask God to bring community in your life if you do not have any. Pray for relationships to grow and develop at camp as well as relationships that may begin as school starts. If you have a solid community around you, pray that God would strengthen it and use your community to reach out and bring in someone else who needs it.

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