Note:  We are so happy you are joining us!  This challenge has changed each of us involved in the writing and publishing process, and we are looking forward to hearing from you and finding out how this challenge impacts you as well.

One thing we ask is that you take the daily challenges (found at the end of each day’s devotion) to heart.  Many ask you to pray over a certain point, make note of a behavior, or read a set of scriptures.  No two days are the same.  Taking the time to capture your thoughts along the way is an essential part of this experience so starting tomorrow, you will be asked to make note of ideas, verses, promises, and intended life changes on paper.

It will be the first of several challenges that ask you to physically write a response.  This may seem awkward if you are used to reading over your devotions without this extra step.  However, remember that we are doing more than “reading about life changes”, we are making life changes so please be ready with a journal, notepad, computer program, or other means of putting your thoughts on paper.

If you’d prefer a paper copy of this devotion for yourself or a family member or friend, you can order one here.

is Wrong

When Christian homes all over our country look no different and sound no different from non-Christian homes, something is wrong.  1 John 2:15-17 gives us clear instructions. Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world. And the world is passing away along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God abides forever.

The typical American lifestyle mimics mainstream music and popular television. Neither align with the path that scripture has set out for us.  Embracing so wholeheartedly a way of life that runs counter to the ways of God is a dangerous path to take.  It is a surefire way to lose this battle that God has set out for us to win.

John 16:33 contains this promise of His power to overcome this world.  “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.”

With concerted effort, we can take back our homes.  We can retrain our eyes and ears to enjoy and pursue the scenes and sounds that are honoring to God.

Retraining takes effort, but as God has promised us, we are not in this alone.  In Isaiah, we read And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it,” when you turn to the right or when you turn to the left (Isaiah 30:21).

It starts with the small stuff:

• our evening entertainment
• our nights out
• our conversations with friends
• our texts
• our social media posts
• those witty comments we make online
• the photo stream on our phone
• the way we spend our downtime
• the songs we hum while sweeping the floor

These small behaviors are made up of habits.  Those habits make up our routine.  And, day after day, they make up our character. This extends to the character of our family, our home, and our Christian walk. All are reliant on those seemingly inconsequential daily decisions. What is the focus of our thoughts? What behaviors do we take part in most often? In other words: what are we all about?

This challenge begins not with those little things though, but with the big picture: the battle between good and evil – a life lived for self or our Savior.  However, in order to change that big picture, we will each be taking an up-close look at our day-to-day routine, at the habits that are a part of our life, and how our daily choices impact eternity.

Today’s Challenge:  Consider your environment.  Many of us are so accustomed to the sights and sounds around us that we are callous to sin’s presence in our homes.  Pray specifically for God to open your eyes to any activities in your daily life that are not bringing honor to Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to show these things to you.  Prepare to feel renewed conviction, and welcome this conviction when it comes.