ANSWER THE CALL
“The anticipation of receiving our inheritance should cause us to diligently prepare ourselves for the work God has in mind for us while we are here on earth. Part of that preparation is the pursuit of an intimate, personal relationship with God.”
Consider the words above for a moment. Now, take time to take an honest assessment of your life. Ask yourself:
• Do you expect to receive an inheritance in Christ?
• Have you set your mind on the pursuit of a relationship with your Heavenly Father?
• Are there tangible signs of spiritual growth in your life?
Obviously, each of us would like to answer with a resounding “Yes!” But too often it seems we fall painfully short of living a life worthy of God’s call.
For the past twelve years, Pinedale has focused the first months of each year on taking intentional steps to grow as a Church in our relationship with God. We focus 40 days on spiritual growth—a season each year that accomplishes several different things. The journey always helps unify us as a Church family. More importantly, the program helps bring each participant closer to answering Jesus’ call to discipleship. This is one of the most important things we do each year.
Spiritual maturity takes a lifetime to achieve. In fact, it is unattainable on this side of Heaven. But that does not mean we should sit around and wait. God wants us to strive to be like Jesus. Like physical growth, spiritual growth requires active participation. To be healthy, the soul must be fed, nurtured and cared for. Left to its own sinful desires, the spirit will die and experience eternal suffering. That’s why programs such as the one in your hand have the potential to be so valuable.
“Building Our Legacy – Answer The Call” is based on the same timetable as previous years. We ask you to set aside a minimum of fifteen minutes each day for 40 days—time devoted to being along with God. These daily encounters: reading the Bible, praying and journaling, will not be time wasted. James 1:5 says: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” Ask God to increase your awareness of His presence in your life. Pray for God to show Himself to you through His Word.
As you embark on this journey of spiritual growth, pray God will give you strength as you walk with and draw nearer to Him. Seek out a quiet place free from distractions. Thoughtfully record your reflections, prayers, and any Scripture God reveals to you. Be encouraging to those around you in their walks, as well.
Staying faithful in your relationship with Christ is vital to spiritual growth. James 1:4 states: “Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.” A casual attitude and lack of commitment will not generate intimacy. God will bless you and reward you if you will stay disciplined to this daily study. Stand firm on His promise that if you come near to Him, He will come near to you.
About the Number “40”
In the Bible, 40 days is a significant symbolic number. God often used 40 day periods to orchestrate life changing events.
• Noah found grace in God’s sight while the world was purified during the 40 days and nights of rain.
• Moses presented the Ten Commandments to the Israelites after spending 40 days and nights alone with God on Mount Sinai.
• The 12 spies witnessed the blessings of God’s Promised Land over 40 days.
• Elijah spent 40 days with God being refreshed and renewed after his standoff with the prophets of Baal.
• God gave Nineveh a second chance and the city repented in 40 days.
• After His baptism, Jesus spent 40 days in the desert fasting and praying, preparing for His mission.
• Jesus appeared to believers over a period of 40 days after His resurrection.
Over the next 40 days, we hope you will use the devotions in this book as a tool to allow God to complete a transforming work in your heart. Only God knows what He has in store for you, but you will be blessed in your walk with Him. Make a promise to yourself to spend time each day completing the devotion, reading Scripture, spending time in prayer and journaling. Romans 12:1-2 says: “I appeal to you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as
a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
God is ready to take you on an amazing journey of discipleship. Will you answer the call?