Find & Follow Jesus, Quarter 1Sample

Week 13
(Deuteronomy 9–22, Psalm 36–37, Proverb 7, Matthew 14–20)

Devotional
In Matthew 18, Jesus tells the parable of the lost sheep, reminding us of the value of each individual, including the one who is lost. Jesus says in verse 14, “In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.” Who is your “one”? Who in your life do you long to see come into a deep and meaningful relationship with Jesus? Who do you want to see set free from addictions, mental illness, anger, or shame? Who is far from God in your life? This parable highlights the value of that “one.” The shepherd leaves the 99 to search for the lost one, investing time, energy, and effort because of His love. Who is your lost “one”?

Prayer
Take time to pray for that person. We may not always know the right words to say or what to do to point them toward Jesus, but Jesus is already pursuing them, and the Holy Spirit knows exactly how to reach them. Thank Jesus for valuing them and being unwilling that any should be lost. As you pray, imagine bringing them before the throne of our loving Father and Jesus, who died for them. What do you believe the Father’s heart is for this person? What blessings would He love for them to experience today? This is your opportunity to see them as God sees them and ask God how to best pray for or interact with them.