Lenten Devotions and Scripture, Week 2
Pick three days this week to dive deeper into scripture using the prompts below.
Note: Devotions from MinistryPass.com
Week 2, Day 1:
John 1:27 (ESV)
[27] even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.”
God’s Call and Our Feelings of Inadequacy
John the Baptist, though a mighty prophet, declared of Jesus, “the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” (John 1:27) Even John felt unqualified for the mission God gave him. In God’s kingdom, He consistently calls people who feel weak or unworthy—Moses, Jeremiah, Mary, Peter—so that His power is displayed through our dependence. Our usefulness isn’t determined by our credentials, but by humble surrender and obedience. God promises in His Word to equip those He calls (see Hebrews 13:21). When we step forward, acknowledging our inadequacies, we find God’s sufficiency meeting us. Don’t let feelings of lacking stop you from responding to God’s prompting; instead, rely on His strength and provision. Our confidence is not in ourselves, but in the One who calls and empowers us.
Questions to Consider
- Where do you feel inadequate or unqualified in your faith journey?
- How does humility prepare you for greater dependence on God?
- What step of obedience might God be calling you to take despite your doubts?
Week 2, Day 2:
Matthew 3:15 (ESV)
[15] But Jesus answered him, “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” Then he consented.
Fulfilling All Righteousness: The Power of Obedience
When Jesus requested baptism from John, John hesitated, feeling unworthy. But Jesus insisted: “Let it be so now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.” (Matthew 3:15) Sometimes, God’s ways conflict with our expectations. Obedience to God’s will often demands trust before understanding. Jesus had no sin to repent of, yet submitted to baptism to identify fully with humanity and perfectly obey His Father. In doing this, He showed us that righteousness is not about personal comfort or logic, but about faith-led obedience. We, too, are called to yield to God’s plans—even when they stretch us or remain unclear. When we trust and obey, God’s purpose is accomplished in and through us, and His pleasure rests on us as it did on Christ.
Questions to Consider
- When have you struggled to obey God because you didn’t understand His ways?
- How does Jesus’ example help you submit to God’s plans for you?
- What area of your life needs a fresh commitment to obedience?
Week 2, Day 3:
Matthew 3:17 (ESV)
[17] and behold, a voice from heaven said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.”
Affirmed by God: Equipped for His Mission
After Jesus’ baptism, a voice came from heaven declaring, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased.” (Matthew 3:17) God’s approval is not based on outward success, but on relationship and obedience. Before any miracle or public ministry, Jesus received His Father’s affirmation. As children of God, our value is rooted not in achievement but in His grace and calling. When God calls us, He also supplies what we need. Feeling uncertain or insufficient is an opportunity to rely on the Holy Spirit’s equipping and the power of God’s Word. Our identity in Christ secures us and gives us courage to step boldly into His purposes.
Questions to Consider
- How does your sense of identity influence the way you serve God?
- Where are you tempted to depend on your strength instead of the Spirit’s?
- What does it mean for you to know you are God’s beloved child?