Why are some people scared of Jesus changing them or the culture around them? 

By the power of God, the sick are healed, the blind can see, the deaf can hear, and the lost are found. At the name of Jesus, the alcoholic gives up drinking forever, the drug abuser becomes clean, the sexually immoral person stops and waits for their future spouse, and the grump becomes a kind-hearted and compassionate person. Jesus changes people to go live differently in the world around them and be a witness for Him.

What is one specific thing in your life that Jesus has changed? 

In Matthew 8:34, the people of the region of Gadarenes were outraged because Jesus had cast demons into their herd of pigs. They ignored what He had done for the two men and were more concerned about the animals. Jesus had healed these individuals when no one else could, but the people still didn’t care.

However, two thousand years later there is still outrage toward Jesus. The sales of alcohol, pornography, and drugs go down when God is at work in people’s lives. Yet, there is resistance to Him at every turn.

What has prepared you to live a holy life, even if it upsets other people? 

Holiness is more than a halo; it’s living differently in the world around you even when it’s not popular. 

Even though people may not realize it or even like it, they desperately need Jesus. Your school, your family, your sports team, your marching band, and your friends are all desperate for Jesus. Living differently by walking in holiness is the most effective way to bring His kingdom into those environments no matter how tough the opposition gets.

PRAYER MOVEMENTS

Hands Up

A sign of surrender.

• Read Isaiah 6:3. 

Surrender today to the authority of the Lord. Be reminded that there is no one like Him. Take a moment and listen to your favorite worship song. Sing along. Worship Him.

Hands Out

A sign of receiving.

• Read 2 Corinthians 5:21. 

Never forget that Jesus did for you what you could never do for yourself. Receive the promise of the righteousness of God. Whether you’ve been a follower of Jesus for a few days or a long time, you need to be reminded of the gospel every day. Walk in that holiness today.

Hands Open

A sign of emptying out.

• Read Romans 12:1. 

Are there things that you’re using your body for that aren’t holy?

Empty out by confessing any unholy things that you’ve been doing.

Reject the mindset that tells you there’s no point in trying to change now that you’ve already messed up. God rescues, redeems, and restores.