Goodwill Toward Mankind: The Blessing of God

Speaker: Pastor Caleb Culver
Date: December 15, 2024

Do you interpret God's blessings through your circumstances or your circumstances through God's blessings? As the Advent season continues, Pastor Caleb Culver delivers a sermon reminding us of the true nature of God's blessings: sharing life for fruitfulness, seeing others as God sees them, and speaking that truth into others' lives.

Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on this sermon:

Day 1: Seeing Through God's Eyes

Reading: Genesis 1:26-31

Devotional: Today, we focus on how God sees us. In Genesis, after creating humans, God declared His creation "very good." This wasn't just a casual observation—it was a profound statement of value and purpose. God sees you as His masterpiece, crafted with intention and love. Today, challenge yourself to see yourself through God's eyes. When you look in the mirror, remind yourself: "I am very good because God made me." How might your day change if you truly believed this? Pray for God to help you see yourself and others as He does—with love, purpose, and delight.

Day 2: The Power of Blessing

Reading: Numbers 6:22-27

Devotional: The Aaronic blessing reminds us of God's desire to bless His people. This blessing isn't about material prosperity, but about God's presence, protection, and peace. Reflect on each phrase: "The Lord bless you and keep you..." How does it feel to know God wants to shine His face upon you? Today, practice being a conduit of blessing. Speak words of life and encouragement to those around you. Remember, true blessing begins with truly seeing others as God sees them. Who in your life needs to hear words of blessing today?

Day 3: Turning Towards God's Face

Reading: Luke 15:11-24

Devotional: The story of Cain teaches us about the danger of turning away from God's face. But the parable of the Prodigal Son shows us the Father's heart when we turn back. No matter how far we've strayed, God's face is always turned towards us, waiting with open arms. Today, if there are areas where you've turned away from God due to shame, guilt, or disappointment, take a step towards Him. Remember, it's not about your performance, but about His unchanging love. What might it look like for you to "turn your face" back to God today?

Day 4: Christ as the Face of God

Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:6-7

Devotional: Paul tells us that the glory of God is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. Jesus is the ultimate expression of God's blessing and favor towards humanity. In times of doubt or difficulty, we can look to Jesus to see God's heart for us. Today, spend some time meditating on the life of Jesus. How does His compassion, sacrifice, and resurrection reveal God's love for you? Thank God for making His love tangible through Christ, and ask Him to help you reflect that love to others.

Day 5: Living Under God's Smile

Reading: Romans 8:31-39

Devotional: Today's passage reminds us that nothing can separate us from God's love. This is the ultimate assurance—God's favor isn't based on our circumstances or performance, but on His unchanging character. Reflect on times when you've interpreted difficult circumstances as God turning His face away. How might those situations look different if viewed through the lens of God's unwavering love? Today, practice "living under God's smile." Whatever challenges you face, remind yourself: "God is for me, not against me." How does this change your approach to the day?