05-JANUARY-2025 - SEX AND YOUR SOUL

THE MAIN THEME: WHO DO I GO WITH?

TITLE: SEX AND YOUR SOUL

 The bible verse for today’s devotional is: 1 Corinthians 6:18 (NIV)

Flee from sexual immorality. All other sins a person commits are outside the body, but whoever sins sexually, sins against their own body.

Devotional:

As teenagers, it is plausible that you have heard a lot of things about sex, some good advice and some not so good ideas, depending on who you heard it from.

So, for today, we will simply share two stories in the bible and allow you think through your reflective questions:

In the book of Genesis chapter 25, verse 29 to 34, there is a story about how Esau (the older son of Isaac) sold his birthright to his younger brother, Jacob. At the time he did it he was responding to a physiological need (hunger) which he could easily have met in some other way. He was the first son of a very rich man, it could have been easy to demand the food from Jacob or ask the other servants in the house to cook something for him, but at that moment, Esau forgot who he was and made a wrong choice. This choice led to him losing out on his father’s blessings- that should have come naturally to the first born.

In another story, in the book of 2 Samuel 13:1-15 a young virgin, Tamar, was raped by her half-brother, Amnon. Both Tamar and Amnon were children of King David and were royals. At the advice of his friend, Amnon pretended to be sick and asked that Princess Tamar be sent to take care of him and while she was preparing a meal for him, he raped her and when he was done, the bible said ‘he hated her more than he loved her’.

From these two lessons, it is clear that we need to constantly remember who we are - we are children of God and our bodies are the temple of the Holy Spirit. Anything we do must be with this in mind - our bodies are not ours to destroy for fleeting emotions or physiological pangs. Whatever attractions are being presented to us, there is always another way to get it.

When we wrong God by defiling our bodies through sex, the first reaction (as it was with Amnon) would be a deep sense of loss and guilt, which is what people often try to numb with more sex, drinks, drugs or whatever else. No one can escape it. While God forgives, the consequence of our mistakes often remains with us. Isn’t it easier to stick with God’s plan for us? His perfect plan is sex within marriage. There is no other way. 

 Here are a few reflective questions: 

  •  Knowing that it is normal to be naturally attracted to the opposite sex from a certain age, what boundaries can I put in place to ensure I am not in a vulnerable place which can lead me to trouble?
  •  I know close friends (and whatever I listen to or read) have an influence over what I believe and what I choose to do; are my friends (and the resources I am exposing myself to) helping me adhere to or disregard God’s plan for me concerning sex? 

Let Us Pray:

Dear God, I thank you for your plans for me are perfect and are always for my own good. I ask for your help to keep myself and honour you with my body, mind and spirit at all times in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Please say these words of affirmation after me. Say them, mean them, own them and live them:

  • I am created in God’s image, and my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit.
  •  I will honour God with my body, mind and heart, and keep them pure for His purposes.
  • God’s plan for my life is worth waiting for, and I will guard my heart and choices.

Have a beautiful day, great ones. Take good care of yourselves. I’ll see you tomorrow. 

 


04-JANUARY-2025 - CRUSH AND LOVE

THE MAIN THEME: WHO DO I GO WITH?

TITLE: CRUSH AND LOVE

 The bible verse for today’s devotional  is:  Song of Solomon 8:4 )NIV)

Daughters of Jerusalem, I charge you: Do not arouse or awaken love  until it so desires.

Devotional:

It is in our design as humans to desire connection with other people. As we evolve through the stages of life, what that connection would look like will change and at adolescence, it is not unusual to be attracted to members of the opposite sex. This is normal and knowing this and accepting it will place you in a better place to prepare and know what to do when that happens.

God made us with emotions, with the ability to feel and have desires. However, his gift comes with the responsibility of ensuring that we use these emotions responsibly, to bring glory to God. Songs of Solomon 8:3-4 admonishes us not to ‘awaken’ love...until we are ready.  This doesn’t refer to the love between family members or those within our community, but it refers to romantic love. There is a right time for everything. In the same way we would not hand a race car to a toddler to drive (for obvious reasons), allowing ourselves to be distracted by crushes will not serve us well in the long run.

When we are attracted intensely to someone because of their looks or qualities or because they are the famous girl or boy in the school, chances are we are crushing rather than loving them. A crush is an intense emotion and can pass away as quickly as it comes, as the novelty wears off. Often, crushes can lead us to compromise our values in order to keep the relationship. On the other hand, love grows gradually and is based on commitment and the desire to see the best happen to the other person, even if that best means that they are not in a relationship with us.

God desires that we grow in love, first towards Him, this will help us prioritize His will in our relationships and when we do this, we will most likely awaken love at the right time and with the right person.

 Here are a few reflective questions:

  •  Are my current relationships moving me closer to God or away from God?
  • Who can I ask to be my accountability partner, ensuring that I can assess and curb  impulsive emotions? 

Let Us Pray:

Dear God, I am grateful that you have good plans for me and at the right time, they will all come to pass. Help me walk with you and trust your timing for all things in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Please say these words of affirmation after me. Say them, mean them, own them and live them:

  • God has great plans for every aspect of my life
  •  I choose to be guided by His word and the Holy Spirit, not by my emotions
  •  I will wait for God’s best, even in relationships.

Have a great day precious ones. I’ll see you tomorrow.

 


03-JANUARY-2025 - ROLE MODELS AND MENTORS

THE MAIN THEME: WHO DO I GO WITH?  

TITLE: ROLE MODELS AND MENTORS 

The bible verse for today’s devotional is: Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm."

Devotional 

As a teenager, you're at a point in life where decisions and choices you make shape your future, and the people around you can either help or harm you.

One of the most important questions you can ask yourself is, "Who do I go with?" This question goes beyond friendships; it includes choosing role models and mentors. Those who have not only been there but who have the experience you need and can influence your character, mindset, and goals.

A role model is someone whose life, values, and accomplishments inspire you from a distance. They may be public figures, family members, or even historical icons. Their stories encourage you to strive for more. 

A mentor, however, is someone who walks with you, guiding you in specific areas of your life. They provide direct advice, share experiences, and help you navigate challenges. 

While role models inspire, mentors invest time in you, helping you become your best self, role models and mentors matter play a huge role in shaping your character.

While a strong role model can push you to dream bigger and show you that it's possible to overcome obstacles, a good mentor can guide you in making decisions, teach you life skills, and help you avoid unnecessary mistakes. 

The bible often speaks about the influence of others on our lives. Proverbs 13:20 reminds us that the people we walk with impact who we become. 

Just like hanging around negative influences can pull you down, walking with the wise helps you grow.

You must be mindful of those you choose as your role models or mentors.

There may be people you admire because of their fame or popularity but what truly matters are their values and how they live out their purpose.

In choosing your role models and mentors, look for those who:

1.Live with integrity and have empowering beliefs and live them out.

2.Encourage you to grow spiritually, emotionally, and mentally.

3.Have overcome challenges and can share practical advice.

4.Are willing to invest in you through mentorship, accountability, and guidance.

Here are a few reflective questions 

  • Do I have a mentor? 
  • Who are the role models in my life? 
  • What about their lives inspires me?

Let Us Pray:

Dear Lord, please surround me with people who will encourage my growth and help me walk in wisdom. Amen. 

Please say these words of affirmation after me. Say them, mean them, own them and live them:

  1. I am open to learning from those who inspire and guide me.
  2. I choose to surround myself with people who encourage my growth and wisdom.
  3. I will walk in wisdom, seeking positive influences to help me on my journey.

Do have a splendid day dear one. Take good care of yourself, I’ll see you tomorrow.

 


02-JANUARY-2025 - THE ULTIMATE CO-PILOT - INVITING GOD TO BE YOUR GUIDE

THE MAIN THEME: WHO DO I GO WITH?  

TITLE: THE ULTIMATE CO-PILOT - INVITING GOD TO BE YOUR GUIDE

The bible verse for today’s devotional is: Psalm 32:8  (NIV)

I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.

Devotional:

Life can often feel like a journey with many twists and turns. You may not always know the right path to take, or what the future holds.

But what if you had the ultimate co-pilot for this journey, someone who not only knows the way but wants the best for you? That co-pilot is God.

Why do you need to invite God to be your guide?

Just like a GPS helps you navigate through unknown roads, God is there to guide you through the challenges, choices, and uncertainties of life. 

Today's scripture reminds us that God offers guidance and instruction. He doesn’t just give you the map, He walks with you, offering wisdom for every decision and guiding every step of the way.

When God is your guide, you don’t have to fear making the wrong turn. He sees the bigger picture, and He wants to direct your life in a way that leads to joy, peace, and purpose.

Inviting God to be your guide means trusting Him with your life and decisions. It’s about more than just asking for help in tough times; it’s about daily surrender, knowing that God’s plans are better than your own. He knows your heart, your strengths, and your potential. When you let Him take the lead, you’re walking in the path He has already prepared for you.

Here’s how you can invite God to be your copilot:

i) Start each day by asking God to direct your steps and help you make decisions that honour Him.

ii) Read His Word which is full of wisdom and direction. Make it a habit to read scripture that speaks to your situation.

iii) God speaks in many ways through His Word, through people, and sometimes through quiet moments in your heart. Be still and listen for His guidance.

Sometimes God’s direction might not match your plans or happen as quickly as you want. Trust that His timing is perfect and that He sees what you cannot.

Here are a few reflective questions:

  • Am I trying to navigate life on my own, or am I letting God guide my steps?
  • What areas of my  life can I invite God to take the lead in today?

Let Us Pray:

Dear God, I invite You to be my guide and  copilot. Help me trust You with my decisions and lead me in the path You’ve set before me. When I feel lost or unsure, remind me that You are always with me, ready to show me the way to go in Jesus name Amen.

Please say these words of affirmation after me. Say them, mean them, own them and live them.

  • God is with me in every step I take, guiding me towards His purpose for my life.
  • With God by my side, I am never alone; His strength empowers me to overcome every challenge.
  • I am equipped to handle all challenges  with grace.

Dear Lovelies, do have a fulfilling day. Take good care of yourself and see you tomorrow!

 


01-JANUARY-2025 - WHO ARE YOUR TRAVEL BUDDIES

THE MAIN THEME: WHO DO I GO WITH? 

TITLE: WHO ARE YOUR TRAVEL BUDDIES?  

The bible verse for today’s devotional is: Proverbs 13:20 (NIV)

Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.

Devotional:

Imagine you’re setting out on a long road trip. Who you choose to ride with can make all the difference. They are called your "travel buddies". They can either make the journey more enjoyable, guide you in the right direction, or, if you're not careful, lead you off course. This is exactly how life works. The people you choose to walk through life with will either help you grow or bring you down. 

Wise friends can help you make better decisions, encouraging you to stay on the path God has laid out for you. On the other hand, friends who make poor choices can easily influence you to do the same. 

Ask yourself, "Who are my travel buddies? Are they helping me move closer to my goals, values, and the person God wants me to be?" 

The friends you choose are either pointing you in the right or wrong direction.

 Here are a few reflective questions:

  • Who are the people I spend most of my time with?
  • How do they influence my decisions? 
  • Are my friends leading me closer to God or away from Him?
  • Am I a wise and uplifting friend to others?

Let Us Pray:

Heavenly Father, please help me to walk with wise people who bring me closer to You. Show me how to be a good friend who encourages others to move close to you in Jesus name, Amen.

Please say these words of affirmation after me. Say them, mean them, own them and live them:

  • I choose to walk with wise friends who inspire me to grow.
  • I am intentional about building relationships that bring me closer to God.
  • I am a good friend who encourages and uplifts those around me.

Dear Lovelies, do have a fulfilling day. Take good care of yourself and see you tomorrow!

 


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