Big Adventure

The Big Adventure doesn't end...

Day 1

Think for a minute - what would you love to see happen as you study God's word?

Dream big!

 

Write down 2 goals for your time with God.

 

Before we start the first chapter of Mark's Gospel check out these verses from Psalm 19:7 - 11. Read them through a few times and then underline all the results and blessings that come from God's word.

 

The law of the LORD is perfect, refreshing the soul. The statutes of the

LORD are trustworthy, making wise the simple. The precepts of the LORD

are right, giving joy to the heart. The commands of the LORD are radiant,

giving light to the eyes. The fear of the LORD is pure, enduring forever. The

decrees of the LORD are firm, and all of them are righteous. They are more

precious than gold, than much pure gold they are sweeter than honey, than

honey from the honeycomb. By them your servant is warned; in keeping them

there is great reward.

 

Think again: What would you love to see happen as a result of studying God's

word? Spend a few minutes asking God for these. Thank Him for His word.

 

Mark 1:1-8

 

? Did you catch in the first phrase how it sums up what the whole book of

Mark is about?

? What does v 4 tell us John was preaching about?

 

In these verses we're given a little snapshot of how John dressed. The Bible does not often talk about people's clothing! But even for 2000 years ago John was not keeping up with trends! Write down what John was wearing.

The 8 verses end with John's message - write it down in your own words.

Note how quick John is to make sure people know he is not the man! He's just pointing to Jesus. John was a man of great humility.

Ask God if there are areas in your life where you need to be quicker to point to other people and slower to point to yourself. Are there areas where you struggle with pride and need some of John's humility?

Ask God to show you people who need your encouragement.

 

Day 2

Take a quick look back at yesterday - how did God answer your prayer? Ask Him to speak clearly to you today and that you will be focused on Him and ready to listen.

What about your prayer to grow in humility and speak encouragement to people?

Did God point anyone out to you?

 

Mark 1:9 - 15. A lot happens in only 7 verses!

 

? What did Jesus see when He was baptised? What do you think people who were watching thought?

? What did God say to Jesus from heaven? How would it feel for you to hear those words from your Father? From God?

 

Think about what was happening - Jesus was about to start doing serious business around Israel - it was really important to hear clearly who He was and what His Father thought of Him.

Where does your identity come from? Is it in what people say about you? Is it in your abilities? Or in your appearance?

Ask God to help you with this question. It is a really important one. Think for another second about what your dad thinks of you - write it down. Now write down what your heavenly Father thinks of you.

If you could hear one thing spoken to you from heaven what would you like it to be?

 

Ask God to help you with your identity. Ask Him to show you how He sees you.

Why not ask your youth group leader or an adult friend at church to pray with you about this?

 

Day 3

Start today by reading Psalm 40: 1- 3. Underline any phrases that jump out to you.

 

I waited patiently for the LORD; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted

me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire;

he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.

He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.

Many will see and fear the LORD and put their trust in him.

 

Think about the opening line - Do you wait patiently for God? Ask Him to start showing you how to wait and giving you stillness in your heart to sit with Him.

Don't miss v2! You need to pray about that one! "He put a new song in my mouth!"

How awesome is that? Do you ever feel you get stuck in a rut of feelings every day? Moaning about the same things? Ask God to give you a new song to sing today! Make these verses a prayer before we launch into Mark.

 

Now turn to Mark 1:9 - 15.

 

? What descended on Jesus when He came out of the water?

? From v12, who sent Jesus to the wilderness?

? How long was Jesus in the wilderness?

? What was the good news that Jesus proclaimed?

 

It is amazing that the same Spirit that led Jesus is leading those who follow Him!

The same Spirit that enabled Jesus to bring good news can enable us! Spend a few minutes asking your Father to pour out His Holy Spirit on you today. Tell Him that you need Him today to guide you, to empower you to live for Him, to bring good news.

 

If you have time pray through the verses below. John 7:37 - 39

Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, "Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and

drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will

flow from within them." By this he meant the Holy Spirit.

John 3:34: God gives the Spirit without limit.

 

If you want to read more about the temptation of Jesus check out Matthew 4 it gives a lot more of the details, what Satan used to tempt Him and how Jesusfought back.

 

Day 4

Think about this verse from Psalm 46 - "Be still, and know that I am God..."

 

Quieten your mind and heart as you read the verse again. And maybe once

more?

Do you notice the 2 parts of this verse? The first 2 words are a call for us to be quiet and still. The second part is a call to recognise who God is.

A lot of people say there is a God but live as if they are in charge of their lives.

There are 2 types of people: those that SAY God is God and those that LIVE like God is God. Which one are you?

Mark 2: 1- 12. Look at v 5 again:

 

? How did the men show their faith?

? Think about your life - How do you show your faith?

 

This story was a bit confusing. 4 guys made a hole in the roof to get their paralysed friend to Jesus for healing and then Jesus forgives his sins! That is not what they were expecting.

But without realizing it the paralysed guy had been given the greatest gift of all - to have friendship with God restored! How awesome.

? Do you think the paralysed man realized the amazing gift he had been given? Or do you think he was disappointed?

 

Apply this to your life. Do you ever go to Jesus because of what you want Him to do and miss the relationship bit? Sometimes [or lots of times] we're disappointed with God when He doesn't do what WE ask Him to do. We miss the joy of walking in friendship with Him! Can you enjoy being with Him [being still] or do you need Him to do what you tell Him to do?

Don't forget the end of the story - Jesus gave the guy more than he ever hoped for! He was healed AND made right with God!

God has way more for you than you can possibly imagine. It doesn't always happen the way we expect or demand.

 

Why don't you ask God to speak to you and change you, today?

 

Day 5

Check out these verses from Isaiah 50:4-5

He wakens me morning by morning, wakens my ear to listen like one being instructed. The Sovereign LORD has opened my ears.

 

How cool is that? To be woken by God speaking to you? I want that kind of alarm clock.

 

Spend a few minutes asking God to open your ears, to waken your mind and heart to what He is saying. Why not ask Him to wake you up in the morning with words from Him?

 

Mark 2:13 - 28. Did you notice the same thing happening 3 times in a row? People kept getting at Jesus and His men.

 

? Why were people were complaining to Jesus? List the reasons:

 

The Pharisees were consumed with what others were up to. Do you ever waste time comparing yourself to those around you? Take a minute to ask God why you do that. Do your feelings about yourself come from other people?

 

Is there one person in particular that you compare yourself to or who can change how you feel about yourself?

 

There are 2 types of people: those with eyes focused all around them and those with eyes focused upward [on God]. An old worship band called Delirious had a song with line that said, "... head in the clouds and feet on the ground ..."

 

Can we be here on earth but have our thoughts set on greater things? Can our hearts be consumed with our Father in Heaven? Don't waste time worrying about what other people are getting up to or comparing yourself with those around you.

Talk to God about how you feel about yourself. Ask Him to show you ways to get your worth from Him.

 

[Hint: if you wake up every morning hearing His voice it's going to change how you feel about yourself and others!]

 

Day 6

Check out Psalm 62:5-8

Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.

He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I shall not be

shaken. My salvation and my honour depend on God; he is my mighty rock,

my refuge. Trust in him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to him, for

God is our refuge.

Read the verses a few times and underline words that describe God. Why notpray these words to God? Tell God what He means to you.

 

Look again at the last line. Be still before God so you can hear your heart beating and pour out your feelings and thoughts to Him. Leave them with Him.

 

Mark 3:1 - 12

 

? Why were so many following Jesus?

? What did Jesus have to do to avoid being crushed by the crowds?

? Why did the Pharisees want to kill Jesus?

 

In v 5 it says Jesus was distressed by their stubborn hearts.

Ask God if there are areas of your heart that is hard or stubborn? Are there things that He has been trying to say that you've been ignoring? Think through how things are going at home, at school, at church. Ask God to speak to you.

 

Is there something God wants you to do today?

Write it down and ask Him for the strength to follow through.

 

Day 7

Start your time with your Father by writing down some things you're thankful for.

Think back over the last week. Has God answered your prayers? Have you seen His hand in your life?

 

Before we get back into Mark, look at Psalm 119:18.

"Open my eyes that I may see wonderful things in your law."

 

As you spend time with Him, God can show you things that human eyes can't see!

Ask God to open your eyes today.

 

Mark 3:13 - 35

 

? Jesus appointed the 12 disciples to do 2 things - what were they?

? What nickname did JC give James and his brother John?

? Why did JC's family come to see Him?

? What were the teachers of the law accusing Jesus of?

 

Jesus leaves us with a promise- who is in His family?

Spend a few minutes thanking God for being a part of His family and ask Him to help you live His will every day.

 

Be still and listen to Him - Is there something He's asking you to do today?

 

Day 8

Stop and claim Psalm 46:10 again: "Be still, and know that I am God;"

 

Obey God and be quiet before Him. Ask Him to help you live in that stillness all

day - knowing that He is God.

 

Mark 4:1-20

 

? What does the seed represent?

? What do you do with seed in your life?

? Are you spreading it? Or are you filling your pockets with it? Or are you

nibbling on it?

 

We all go through these different soils at different times. Can you recognize yourself in any of these phases? Do you feel stuck in one? Why?

 

Take a few minutes to talk to God about it. Ask Him for insight. Writedown what you hear from Him.

 

Day 9

Mark 4:21 - 34. Let's do this backwards today! Start at v33-34 - how did JC talk to people?

 

Do you notice what He did with His disciples? When he was alone with them, he explained everything. How cool would that be! To have Jesus explaining everything! Why don't you start today and ask Jesus to explain His words to you?

 

Now read through today's verses again starting at v21. How about reading through these verses 3 times? Maybe more if you get excited! While reading, ask God to point out to you one story in particular that is for you.

 

Write down 1 or 2 things that stand out to you about the parable.

 

Write down any questions you have about the parable and ask Jesus to explain it to you. Ask Him to let you know what He would love you to do about it today.

 

Day 10

Mark 4:35 - 41

 

Write down a few words to describe the storm and what you think the boat looked like.

 

Luke also told this story (Luke 8). He said the disciples were "in great danger".

Think about anything you're going through in life - or have gone through - that is like a life storm.

 

Write down a couple words that describe your feelings and then think about this - what did you say to JC when you hit this 'life storm'?

 

Now get back into the boat with the disciples and think about their situation.

? How were the disciples feeling?

? The disciples asked Jesus one thing - what was it?

? Have you ever felt like asking Jesus this same question?

 

JC asked his friends 2 things - write down the 2 questions.

 

Remember this - life will throw storms at you. But Jesus is with you in the boat.

Maybe you know He is there but you have the same question as the disciples -

"Do you care about me Jesus?"

 

End your time with God today by asking Jesus 2 things: that you can see how

much He loves you today and that He will increase your faith.

 

Day 11

How has your life changed since knowing Christ? What is the difference? When we become followers of Jesus Christ our lives are totally transformed, forever changed.

 

Unfortunately, many of us don't see or feel that. We see it in others. But we lose sight of it in ourselves.

 

Today, we are going to look at a man whose story parallels our own. This man was trapped and completely without hope. BUT then he met Jesus in a powerful, personal way.

 

Ask God to meet with you today and then read Mark 5:1-20.

 

On first glance this man appears a little more far-gone than many of us - living in tombs, strength to snap chains, possessed by a legion of demons. But upon closer look, his plight mirrors our own.

 

He was lost without lasting purpose, trapped in sin, alone and hopeless. Then one encounter with Jesus left him forever changed. Jesus set him free, gave him purpose and restored his mind.

 

That sounds like what Jesus has done for us. We were lost in the messed up things we'd done (sin), we had no hope to reach God. When all seemed lost, Jesus stepped in and did what we could not do. He paid the penalty for our sin on the cross and now He offers us life. It's by grace through faith in Him. Think about that. Seriously, spend some time thanking Jesus for what he has done in your life. It's awesome right?

 

Now glance back at Mark 5:18-20. Take a close look at v19.

? What did Jesus tell this guy to do?

? What does Jesus want us to do?

 

He simply asks each of us to share our story - how God has changed our lives -with those around us.

 

What is your story? Spend some time praying through it, and then write it down.

Who does God want you to share it with? Would you post it on Facebook?

 

Day 12

What is faith? Do you have it?

In Hebrews 11:1 it says faith is, "confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see."

 

It goes on to say in v6 that, "without faith it is impossible to please God...."

 

God values faith! Ask God to meet with you today. Then, take a look

at Mark 5:21- 24. What do you see about faith?

 

Here we meet Jairus, a man of authority, who humbles himself before Jesus asking Him to heal his daughter who's on her deathbed.

 

Notice v 23: Jairus believes that if Jesus just lays his hands on the girl, she will be healed.

 

Now, the faith bar is gets raised as we look at another person with faith.

 

Mark 5:24-34. First notice in v 24 that a 'great crowd pressed around him'.

? Do you know what it's like to have that many people around you?

? Have you ever been to a concert where you were crushed in by people on every side?

 

In the middle of this crowd was a woman who has been sick and in pain for 12 years! No one could help her. It's easy to start doubting after even a few weeks of seemingly unanswered prayer, let alone 12 years.

 

But check out her statement of faith in v 28, she believes that if she can just touch the shirt Jesus is wearing she will be healed.

 

Notice how personal Jesus is. He knows her touch and begins to look for her.

? When she comes to Him what does He say has healed her?

 

Finish the chapter by reading v34-43. Jairus' faith is now put to the ultimate test as his servants come and tell him that his daughter has died.

 

Faith is the vehicle that moves us towards God and allows us to experience the amazing things God has for us. Faith continues to believe even when it takes 12 years to heal or when our dreams die. Faith allows us to see our lives through Christ's perspective.

 

? What things in your life do you need faith to believe in now, even though you

cannot see the answer?

? Do you have faith to believe like the sick women or Jairus?

 

Spend some time in prayer, asking God to strengthen your faith to "believe in things unseen".

Day 13

So how are things going now that you are home? It's been a bit of time since TeenStreet. Life's back in full swing.

 

BUT here you are, still doing your Big Adventure. Awesome! Home can be a difficult place to live out the faith. Sometimes the place we hope to find the greatest acceptance and support for our walk with God actually turns out to be the most difficult.

 

Mark 6:1-6. Ask God to meet with you.

 

How did going home work out for Jesus? At first, things seemed to be going well. Then, the bottom drops out. Jesus was shut down by his hometown, the people he grew up with and even his own family. Ouch!

 

Being a Christian at TeenStreet can be a lot easier than back at home. But Jesus calls us not to give up. He didn't give up.

 

Check out Mark 6:6-13.

 

Did Jesus sit by dejected that those who used to be closest to Him didn't get it or want to hear it? No. What did he do? v6 - 7. He pressed on and got the 12 involved in spreading the Kingdom of God.

 

? What was the result? v12-13.

 

We can't give up when life gets tough. Jesus calls us onward in our relationship with Him. Obedience to God, despite difficulty, allows us the opportunity to see God at work in and through our lives.

 

Write down the things/people at home that make following Jesus difficult.

 

Spend some time praying through each of those relationships and situations. Ask Jesus for the strength to press on. How does God want you to respond in each ofthose situations? Ask Him for the wisdom.

 

Day 14

Have you ever wondered how you could wreck your life in a hurry? Not many people do, but sadly it happens over and over.

 

Today we are going to look at a guy who did just that. Herod was a ruler, a man of power, wealth, and confidence. But as we look deeper we see a man who is confused, conflicted and unsure of himself.

Herod continually chose to ignore the truth and listen to people around him and his life became ugly, very quickly.

 

Ask God to meet with you. Then, read Mark 6:14-29.

 

Herod had heard about Jesus but wasn't sure who Jesus was. Rather than going straight to Jesus, Herod chose to ask the people around him. Not a great plan. He is given 3 options. None of them is right, but Herod doesn't know because he is listening to the wrong people.

 

Herod had divorced his own wife and ran off with his brother's wife, Herodias. John the Baptist challenged him on it so Herod threw John in prison. Herod knew John was "a righteous and a holy man" and liked to listen to him. But he caved into pressure from the crowd and ended up murdering John.

 

Write down the people you allow to influence your life. Pray through your list asking God to help you really weigh the value of each person or thing on your list.

 

Ask for the strength to do the hard things and get right with God. Let's choose to avoid Herod's mistakes.

 

Day 15

Have you ever had times of intense closeness with God? Everything seems to be going awesome. God is so real. But then something comes up and suddenly God seems distant. What can we do?

 

Ask God to meet with you today. Then, check out Mark 6:30-44.

 

What do you think it was like to hold a basket of leftovers? You have just seen God use you to heal and set people free (remember Mark 6:7-13) so you'd be buzzing but tired. Then, you can't get a break because droves of people keep flocking to Jesus. Jesus takes the time to teach these spiritually hungry people, but all you feel is a different type of hunger.

? When you bring the question to Jesus, v35-38, He throws it right back at you. What did that feel like?

? How do you think you would respond?

Jesus chose to include the disciples in what He was doing to develop their faith.

 

Mark 6:45-56.

 

Jesus sends the disciples on ahead while he prays. Now it was back to the familiar, normal life. Row across the lake. No big deal, right? But it turned out to be more difficult! When Jesus showed up, the disciples freaked out.

 

God is there with us in the normal, seemingly routine things of life. But when the pressure starts to build, He steps closer; showing up in unexpected ways.

 

Spend time praying about that. Where are the stressful places in your life? Ask Jesus to show you where he is already at work. How does the reality of Hispresence change things?

 

Day 16

Check out these awesome verses from 1 Samuel 16

 

The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.

 

Everything about this world gets us focused on how we look. This is what David prayed thousands of years ago:

 

Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Psalm 139: 23 - 24

 

Can you pray these verses before we start? If you take them seriously they'll take some courage to pray!

Mark 7: 1 - 23

 

? Do you notice how the Pharisees and teachers were consumed with stuff that is on the outside?

? Are there things you do because people are watching?

 

What was Jesus' response to the Pharisees?

 

Beside each of the words below write down what Jesus said:

• Lips
• Heart
• Worship

 

Spend a few honest minutes with God - tell Him you want to hear what He has to say to you in these 3 areas. Spend a few minutes still with Him maybe He wants you to repent about some things? Maybe He wants you to get real in some areas of your life? Let Him speak to you now.

 

Day 17

Start today with these verses from Ecclesiastes 5: 1- 2

Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather

than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong. Do

not be quick with your mouth; do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything

before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.

 

Pray about these verses. We can easily forget we're on earth and God is in heaven! We often act like it's the other way round and that life is all about us!

 

What is one thing you can do differently in your time with God from these verses?

 

Mark 7:24-36.

 

? Is there one thing that jumped out to you from these verses? Why?

? How do you think the mother was feeling when she went to Jesus?

? What do you think the woman was thinking as she went home?

 

This world is full of hurting people that are crying out for hope and healing. Ask God to show you how you can bring His hope and healing to the world today. Ask Him if there is one person He wants you to reach out to today?

 

Day 18

Do you have anything on your mind right now? Why not write it down and leave it with God? Let Him know how you feel. Then check out Habakkuk 2:20

 

The LORD is in his holy temple; let all the earth be silent before him.

 

Silence is an amazing way to honour someone - it shows respect. Let's obey that verse right now! Spend a few moments silent before our God.

 

Mark 8:1-21. This is an amazing story! If you have time, read it again.

 

Did you notice the story starts with Jesus giving His friends a chance to get involved His work? What did His disciples say?

 

God often gives us opportunities to get involved with what He's doing but we often respond the way the disciples did - we look at how WE will be able to do it. Think for about things you know God wants you to do in your school and at home. Don't think about HOW you will do it that's God's job! If God is pointing things out to you then HE will provide the way for you to do it.

 

Is there one thing God wants you to do TODAY? Don't look at yourself and how many loaves of bread you have. Respond by telling God you're available and that you're ready for HIM to provide the way.

 

Day 19

Take a minute to ask God to speak to you today and to give you wisdom.

 

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. James 1:5

 

We don't understand everything that we read in God's word but that's all right - God will explain the things to us that we need to know and the rest we might never totally understand until we see Him! Remember the verses we read from Ecclesiastes a few days ago. God is in heaven and you are on earth. Someday we'll be in heaven and we'll understand more.

 

Mark 8: 22 - 38.

 

JC was saying that Peter was the devil because what he was pushing Jesus to do was opposing His mission on earth.

But don't let the 'Satan' thing distract you from the powerful things Jesus had to say to His friends.

 

Jesus said, "You do not have in mind the things of God, but the things of men."

 

Let God speak to you about what you have going on in your mind.

 

Write down the things you think about most.

 

Read the last 5 verses of Mark 8. Jesus explains what the things of men are. Write out a list from these last 5 verses: make one list of the 'things of men' and another list of the 'things of God'

 

 

Ask God to show you one thing you can do today that will get you focused on thethings of God and OFF the things of men.

 

Day 20

How have your times with God been over the past few days? Has God shown you more of Himself and more about who you are? God promises that as we genuinely pursue Him, He reveals more of Himself to us. See Matthew 7:7-9.

 

Today we get to see more of Jesus. Pray that God would meet with you and reveal Himself to you.

 

Mark 9:1-13.

 

Imagine walking with Jesus up the mountain. All of the sudden, looking at Jesus becomes difficult. Your eyes begin to hurt. Is He glowing? No, but his clothes are bright white. Then bam! - Elijah and Moses show up. And God's voice thunders. All of that is pretty overwhelming, right?

 

Look back at verse 7.

? What does God the Father say?

? What's the take home point from all this amazing time with God?

Write it down:

? That is a pretty simple command but it can be hard to live out.

? Are you listening to Jesus? Are you spending time with Him everyday?

? As you hear him speaking into your life are you obeying what He is telling you?

 

What has Jesus been saying to you? Maybe He is saying to stop something because he doesn't want you to get hurt. Maybe He is saying that you need to start doing something because He wants you to experience more of His power.

Ask for His help to truly live those things out today.

 

Day 21

Sometimes life seems overwhelming. Demands at school. Pressure from parents. Friends pulling us in different directions. Unexpected sickness or tragedy. What can we do?

 

Ask God to meet with you and then read Mark 9:14-29.

 

What's the first thing that greets Peter, James and John when they come down the mountain?

 

In the centre is a desperate father. The disciples had been trying their hardest to help but it wasn't working. Enter Jesus. He asks, "What's going on?" Re-read v17-23.

 

? What would it be like if someone you love was dealing with something like that?

 

Notice Jesus' response. "Everything is possible for one who believes." Notice the father's honest reply, "I believe, help my unbelief."

 

What issue, pressure, or disappointment do you need to bring to Jesus?

What is He challenging you to trust Him with?

 

Write it down. Then pray honestly, no pretence, to ask for Jesus help to trust Him in this.

 

Don't give up and throw in the towel. The key is choosing to put our trust and faith in Jesus. Keep bringing the issue to Jesus, and you will see Him act.

 

Day 22

Today we get a behind-the-scenes look at Jesus with His disciples. Jesus wanted to spend some time alone with them.

 

Ask Jesus to meet with you today and then read Mark 9:30-41.

 

Notice how the argue over who the greatest is among them. Then after Jesus corrects that, they get it wrong again as they try to stop someone outside their group from doing something incredible in Jesus' name simply because he's not one of the "chosen 12." Pride creeps in and messes up our thinking so fast. The antidote is serving others.

 

Notice Jesus' response. The disciples keep getting things wrong but Jesus patiently keeps correcting them. He calls us to serve others in His name, doing those the small unseen things like giving a cup of water to someone.

 

Now finish the rest of the chapter - Mark 9:42 - 50

 

Jesus gets serious about sin. He points out that sin has huge implications. Thankfully, he paid the ultimate price when he was nailed to the cross for our sin.

 

As followers of Jesus we need to treat sin seriously and do what is necessary to cut it out of our lives. Maybe it's getting rid of the Internet. Maybe it's asking a leader to hold you accountable in some area of your life.

 

As you apply today's readings to your life ask Jesus if there is someone you can serve today in a small way. Then, examine your life. What are the sins that need to be removed? 1 John 1:6-7 challenges us to get those areas into the light - don't keep them a secret because secrets have power over us. Is Jesus telling you to talk to someone you trust about this? If so, pray about it and do it. Today.

 

Day 23

As you start your time with God today, is anything bothering you? Are you worried or angry about anything? Concerned about someone you love? Write these things down and share them with Jesus.

Now put them to one side as a symbol that you are going to leave them with Him so you can focus on your Big Adventure.

 

Do you like choices? Try a few of these. Which do you prefer?

? Coke Cola or Orange Juice

? Pizza or Pasta

? Listening to music or watching a film

? Playing football or dancing

? Going to church or shopping

 

In today's reading, a young man had to make an incredibly important choice. Read Mark 10:1 - 31 focusing on the last story. Read it carefully and imagine you are right there! What sort of man do you think this was? Jesus told the man he lacked one thing. What was it? Do you think his problem

was just that he had too much money?

 

Use your imagination: What would have happened if the young man had chosen to follow Jesus? What would he have seen? What would he have experienced? What might he have done?

 

Take 2 pieces of paper. At the top of one paper write, "Following Jesus" and then write or draw all reasons for putting Jesus first.

 

On the other paper, write or draw everything that stops you or gets in the way of you following Jesus. Now hold out your hands and put one paper in each hand. Look from one to the other. Which do you choose today? Why?

 

End by being honest with God about where you are in your relationship with Him right now. Ask Him to help you choose what is most important!

 

Day 24

Mark 10: 32 - 52

 

At first glance, these two stories might not have much in common but take a closer look. What does Jesus say to James and John and to Blind Bartimaeus? Write it down here...

 

? What did James and John want?

? What did Blind Bartimaeus want?

 

Imagine you heard a knock on your door right now and Jesus was standing outside. If he asked you that same question - "What do you want me to do for you?" - what would you say? Do you know what you want? Do you think Jesus would give it to you? Why or why not?

 

Look back at the 2 stories one more time. Note down any differences you see:

 

Jesus longs to give us good things but it is important that we have the right attitude and priorities. Psalm 34: 3 - 4 says: "Trust in the LORD and do good; dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture. Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart."

 

Before you spend some time with God examine your heart and your attitude. Do you demand things from God or are you coming humbly asking for His mercy?

 

Now talk to God about what you want Him to do for you. Tell Him the desires of your heart.

Day 25

Spend a few minutes before God committing this time to Him. Make it an unrushed, unhurried, calm and peaceful time before the Lord; He is worth it!

 

Mark 11:1-19. Take your time. Read it a second time if you can.

? How do you think the disciples were put to the test?

? How do you think they felt about carrying out Jesus' instructions and how would they have benefitted from the experience?

? Do you feel that you live with this kind of trust and boldness in Jesus?

 

v12-14 is a "parable in action". Check out Colossians 1:10. If we put the two passages together what do you think is expected of us? What types of fruit we can bear?

 

Stop for a minute and put this before God. Ask Him to bear fruit through you - bearing fruit without God is impossible

 

Look at Jesus' passion for the temple in v15-18! Now check out John 4:23-24. Think about us as a modern temple - a person devoted to God, a life full of worship and prayer. Are you fully devoted to God?

 

As you pray, write down anything that you feel God is saying.

 

Ask for the strength to be bold and faithful like the disciples going to get the donkey. Ask Him to bear fruit through you. Ask Him to purify your heart so that you are a place devoted to Him!

 

Remember Philippians 2:13 "for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose". God doesn't expect you to do it alone!

 

Day 26

How can a young man [or woman] keep his way pure? By living according to your Word. Psalm 119:9.

Ask God to reveal new things to you today through His Word. Commit to spending this time before Him listening and worshipping.

 

Mark 11:20-33. Now read it again. Soak it in, what awesome scripture!

 

Check out v20-26. There are two important aspects of talking to God that Jesus points out - can you spot them? (Hint: v23 and v26).

 

Sometimes we get the impression that if we have faith then God will just give us what we want. But check out Jesus' attitude when He prayed in Mark 14:35-36.

What was Jesus' ultimate desire? (v36) Do we have that same attitude?

 

Look back at v 27-33 of today's reading.

? Where do you think Jesus got His authority?

? Do you think the Pharisees wanted an answer to their question or maybe an argument? Or even worse an excuse to kill Jesus?

 

John 8:29. Jesus saw past their question to the heart of what they actually were trying to do!

? Who did Jesus live to please? Who did He stay focused on?

? Where did He get His guidance?

? Do we live like this today? Do we rely on God in this way? Should we?

 

Spend some time with the Lord. Ask Him to guide your prayers. Tell him any struggles you are having. Ask for His will to be done! How awesome to live out life hearing and speaking to God like Jesus did.

Day 27

Before you dive into God's Word ask Him to speak to you. Commit this time to Him, to focus on Him and let go of distractions. Ask Him to take away anything that's burdening your mind.

 

When you are ready, read Mark 12:1-27.

 

What did Jesus call the Pharisees in this parable? They were so angry they wanted to arrest Him! (Note: "capstone" is the most important stone in building).

 

In the parable Jesus predicts that they will kill Him.

? Who was He placing His confidence and future in?

? Who are you placing your confidence in?

Write down your thoughts.

Look again at v13-17. They never stopped trying to trap Jesus but it never worked!

"Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's" (v17).

 

Consider some of the things in your life that are God's. Are you really giving them to Him? Ask God to reveal those things to you.

 

In v18-27 the Sadducees try to trap Jesus.

? What are the two errors that Jesus points out in the Sadducees?

? How does Jesus answer them?

? Did they understand what heaven will be like?

? Did they understand the scriptures they were reading?

 

It's important to remember that we read and study God's Word to get to know Him NOT to know ABOUT Him!

Do you ever fall into the same trap as the Sadducees? Trying to figure out stuff about God instead of seeking to get to know Him?

 

Spend some time listening to God and considering what we were looking at today.

Take down and pray through any things you feel God is saying to you.

 

Day 28

I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways - Psalm 119:15

 

Ask God to show you new things about Himself today. Choose to focus on Him and put aside distractions.

 

Mark 12:28-44. Check out v28-34 again. Pretty cool, eh?

 

Think about the greatest commands. What does that devotion to God look like?

And does loving your neighbour like that look like?

 

Jesus said the man was, "not far from the kingdom of God." (v34). What do you think the man needed to do to get there?

? Look at v35-40, what does Jesus say the teachers of the law like to do?

? Look back at the greatest commands. Do the teachers follow them?

 

Do you ever slip into that same attitude as those teachers? Pray and ask God to reveal the truth to you! Are there hypocritical aspects to your attitude? If so, write them down.

 

v41-44 is an awesome insight into how God views our giving! Did the woman actually give more than the rich people? What does that show us?

 

Maybe money isn't a big deal in your life. Are there other areas where you are being selfish towards God? What about your time?

 

Allow God to speak to you as you meditate and consider these things about Him. Write down your thoughts.

 

Day 29

In Matthew 11 Jesus said, "learn from me". Ask Him to teach you some things you need to learn today.

 

Mark 13:1-23.

 

Jesus prophesies about some pretty scary stuff here. Do you think we might be in the end times? Take a look at v7 and 11 - what should our reaction be as followers of Jesus?

? What is Jesus' greatest warning about? (v 6, 21-22)

? Why will we be persecuted? (v9, 13) But what happens if we stand firm?

? What does Jesus tell us to rely on in these times, v11?

 

v23 calls us to "stand firm". How do you think you could prepare yourself to stand firm in tough times? Write down a few ideas.

 

Spend some time praying that God will build you into a warrior for Him.

Remember, if God has called you He will give you strength to live for Him.

 

Day 30

Prepare yourself to hear from God. Tell Him this is His time.

 

Mark 13:24-37.

 

There is a lot of debate surrounding Jesus' return. As I write this there is a pastor in America tell everyone that the rapture is coming this Saturday! (If you are reading this then he was wrong - and I'm pretty sure he is!).

 

What will definitely happen during Jesus' return (the Son of Man)? Will it be obvious when He does come? Check out v32, does Jesus know when God is going to send Him back? Do the angels know?

If we are to expect Jesus' return soon how should we be living? Do you think we are living with that attitude? Are you? Are you priorities set right?

 

Think about your priorities in life. Ask God what He thinks and ask Him to guide you. Is there something you should change?

 

Day 31

John 14:6 Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me".

 

Tell God you believe that and commit this time to drawing close to Him.

 

Mark 14:1-25.

 

Look again at v1-9. Imagine that a year's wages used as shampoo!

What is your reaction? Do you agree that it was a waste? Consider this: Does God need our money? Or is there something else more important to Him?

 

Think back to the greatest commandment. What does God really want from us?

 

Re-read the passage and write down some of the prophesises that Jesus gives!

 

What about v9? Or v13-15? And v18? Now consider the last in v22-25. Was his body broken for us? Was His blood poured out for us? His last prophesy here was that He would rise again!

 

If you had the chance to be with Jesus right now, do you think spending a year's wages on Him would feel like a waste?

 

Spend time considering how awesome Jesus is. Write down anything that comes to mind and praise Him for it!

Day 32

Give this time to God. Ask Him to clear your mind of distractions, stresses and to give you focus.

 

Mark 14:26-52.

 

Check out Peter's reaction in v29 and 31.

Where was Peter's confidence based? In his own manliness or in God?

 

The other disciples said the same thing! What did they actually do in v50?

? Do we ever ignore God's warnings?

? Do we ever think we won't stumble like others?

 

Look at v32-41 again. In v36 we see Jesus' ultimate desire when asking things of

God. What was it? When we approach God do we have the same attitude? Do

you?

 

v38 shows us that Jesus understands the temptations we face. But what does He say our response should be? Write it down:

Spend some time in prayer being honest with God. Tell Him your greatest struggles and temptations; be honest! Ask Him for the strength to overcome them.

Day 33

Get focused on God. Give Him this time. He is worth it!

 

Mark 14:53-72.

 

(Note: the point of bringing Jesus before the Sanhedrin was to find an excuse to kill Him. Not much of a fair trial!)

 

What was the decision of the "trial"? Do you think Jesus was surprised? Check out what He had told His disciples in Matthew 16:21.

 

They killed Jesus for claiming to be the Son of God, and then He proves He is by rising back to life!

 

Check out Peter's time again through v66-72.

? How do you think he felt after hearing that rooster crow?

? Look at the build up to it again; check out v29, 37, 50 and 54. Being honest with yourself; do you think you would have acted differently?

Look back at the advice Jesus gave Peter in v38. What can we learn from Peter's mistakes? How would you prepare yourself for testing?

 

Day 34

[Note: The Jews had to get permission from the Romans in order to execute Jesus.]

 

Mark 15:1-21

 

Check out the interaction with Pilate. Remember Pilate had the authority to allow the Jews to execute Jesus; they couldn't do it without his permission.

? Do you think that Pilate believed Jesus deserved to be executed?

? Do you think Pilate was living to please men or God?

? Do you ever strive to please men (those around you) instead of God?

 

Look again at how Jesus acted throughout the whole ordeal. How did he respond?

Did he argue his innocence?

 

Take a look at 1 Peter 2:21-24. What example did Jesus leave? How should we respond to that? Who is Jesus living to please?

 

Compare Jesus' and Pilate's attitudes and actions. Whose example are you following? Ask God to speak to you about this. Are you living to please Him or your friends?

 

Day 35

Mark 15:22-47. Read it again. Focus on the passage; turn off the TV and get rid of any other distractions around you!

? What kind of insults were they throwing out at Jesus?

? What were they still looking for from him (v32)?

? What do we know and see about Jesus that they missed?

 

We know that Jesus had the power to come down off the cross. Why do you think he stayed there? Check out 1 Peter 2:24.

 

Looking at v 34, what is the answer to Jesus' question? Consider Isaiah 59:2-3. If Jesus was perfect, but on the cross He was forsaken by God because of sin, whose sin caused the separation?

 

The idea of a curtain being torn in two might not sound too dramatic but consider that it was 60 feet long, 30 feet wide and about 4 inches thick! It weighed about 4 tonnes (that's a curtain that weighs the same as a fully grown African elephant)!

 

Hebrews 10:18-22. Through Jesus' death the curtain was torn in two. We can freely go through. What is the significance of that for your relationship with God?

 

Day 36

Take some time to get alone with God. Now is time for you and Jesus.

 

Mark 16:1-14. Now read it again. Jesus has just died so everything the disciples had lived for over the last few years seemed to be falling apart. They were expecting a conquering king and they got a suffering servant. They were probably confused.

 

Jesus rose from the grave, proving His authority over death! His resurrection proved that He was a suffering servant AND a conquering king. Jesus came to conquer sin, and death!

 

? Why do you think Mary, Mary and Salome were so afraid that they didn't tell anyone about Jesus rising from the dead?

? How many people reported to the disciples that Jesus had risen from the dead and why do you think they didn't believe them?

? Have you ever refused to believe someone who said God had done something amazing?

 

What if the disciples would have believed Mary? Or the two who had been walking in the country?

 

How often do we delay what God is wanting to do in our lives because of our unbelief? God is alive and working all around us, but we often settle for whatever the world tells us.

 

Today, ask God where you're believing what the world says over what He says. Often we only see the result after we have made a decision to step out in faith. Choose to follow Jesus today no matter what the world tells you and ask Him to teach you to trust His words above all else.

 

Day 37

Mark 16: 1 - 20

 

Impossible! I'm sure that's what the disciples were thinking when Jesus spoke these words to them. Drive out demons? Speak in new tongues? Pick up snakes with their hands? Drink deadly poison? What on earth was Jesus talking about???

 

Would they all be immune to death the way Jesus now seemed to be? We know that's not true because most of them died. Jesus was giving an invitation to join Him in doing the impossible.

? What command did Jesus give the disciples?

? Has God ever invited you into anything impossible?

? How did you respond?

 

Jesus asked His disciples to spread His message through the whole world. That must have seemed a pretty impossible thing to ask of 12 uneducated, ordinary men.

 

But Jesus didn't stop there. He mentioned all kinds of other impossible things. Now, obviously not every believer will drink poison (and we at TeenStreet definitely don't recommend it!) But Jesus invites us to be a part of making the impossible possible.

 

As you go through today, look for opportunities to be involved in things the world would say are impossible.

 

Why don't you write out Philippians 4:13 somewhere you will see it all day.

Ask God to do the impossible through you.

 

 

Jonathan Karlsson 30 november 1999