Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission.

With Purpose

Posted by Karah

Pause

Read through Genesis 1–2 again. Ask God to guide you by His Spirit, helping you to see how this passage reveals God’s purpose for humanity.

“The Lord God took the man and placed him in the garden of Eden to work it and watch over it.” —Genesis 2:15

Read Genesis 1:26–2:25 in your Bible. Today, look for what this passage reveals about God’s purpose for humanity. Underline any words or phrases that give you insight.

Debrief by thinking through these questions:

God created humans in His image, which implies relationship and reflects His desire to know us. What does that teach you about His purpose for your life?

God placed Adam in the perfect garden, a place meant to bring Him glory. How does that help you to better understand God’s purpose for humanity?

God gave Adam a job to do before sin entered the world. This means that work is good. How Adam lived his life—what he did and how he spent his time—was meant to bring glory to God. How would living with that mind-set affect your daily life? Explain.

The Point

God created humanity with a purpose: to know Him and to live in a way that brings glory to Him.

Respond

God created Adam and gave him a purpose: to know God and to be a steward of all God had created. You are a steward, too. Think of all God has given you: salvation, resources, skills and talents, spiritual gifts, the gospel.

Evaluate your life. Are you using what God has given you to bring glory to Him? Why or why not?

Confess your desire to glorify God through what He has given you. Ask Him to help you have the courage and strength to do so, empowered by His Holy Spirit.

Jot down three things you know God has asked you to be a steward of. List the steps you’ll take to glorify Him, the Author of your story, with those things this week.

Behind the Story

The word translated work in Genesis 2:5 is the Hebrew word ābad. This word was commonly used for tilling the soil and other labor, but can also refer to service to another. Therefore, it’s often used to refer to worship (Ex. 3:12), and its noun form, ăbōdâ, is frequently used to describe the Levitical duties in the tabernacle and temple worship.

Posted in Boys, Devotions | Tagged Camp Ridgecrest Alumni and Friends, Camp Ridgecrest for Boys, Reprinted from ec magazine. © 2012 LifeWay Christian Resources of the Southern Baptist Convention. Used by permission., Weekly Devotions | Leave a reply

In His Image

Posted by Karah

Pause

Read through Genesis 1–2 again today. Praise God for the creativity you see in His creation and thank Him for creating you.

What are some things that people think set them apart from the crowd?

Circle all that apply.

Income Hard work/effort

Intelligence Passion for something

Skills Family

Popularity Appearance

Relationships Power

“Then the Lord God formed the man out of the dust from the ground and breathed the breath of life into his nostrils, and the man became a living being.” —Genesis 2:7

Now, read Genesis 1:26-27 again. As you read, think about who or what is being set apart from the rest of creation in these verses. Consider these questions:

Of all the things that God created, only humans are made in His image. How does that set us apart from other created things?

What does that fact teach you about the kind of relationship God wants to have with us—even from the very beginning?

Read Genesis 2:4-7,18-22 in your Bible.

What examples of the set-apart, intimate relationship God wants to have with His children do you see in these verses? Explain.

Why is it important that we recognize that from the very beginning we were made to know God personally and be in fellowship with Him?

The Point

God, the Author and Main Character of Scripture, created us to be in relationship with Him.

Respond

Meditate on this thought: God created humanity in His image even though He knew—even in the very act of creation—that He would have to redeem us.

God wants to have a personal relationship with you and provided the way through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. Place your faith in Him.

As Christians, God is continuing to conform us to His image, the likeness He has shown us in Jesus (Rom. 8:29). How can you see God at work in your life? If you don’t see God conforming you into His likeness, ask the Holy Spirit to give you spiritual eyes to see God at work or reveal any sin that is disrupting your relationship with Him.

Behind the Story

The creation of humanity is the pinnacle of God’s creative work. This is shown in that it was His final creative act, along with the personal nature of the way He created man and woman. In addition, of all God’s creation, only humans are said to be made in His image.

Three-In-One

Posted by Karah

Pause

Focus your mind on God and who He is. Listen or sing your favorite worship song to Him as an act of worship. Try “The Earth is Yours” by Gungor (Beautiful Things, 2010).

Read through Genesis 1:1-27 in your Bible, then focus on verses 26-27.

“Then God said, “Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness. They will rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, the livestock, all the earth, and the creatures that crawl on the earth.” So God created man in His own image; He created him in the image of God; He created them male and female.” —Genesis 1:26-27

Ask yourself:

What do these verses reveal to you about the main character of Scripture? Explain.

Focus on verses 2, 26, and 27. How do these verses suggest the Trinity? Why is that important?

Now, read Colossians 1:15-20 in your Bible.

What was Jesus’ role in creation? Explain.

Why is it important to recognize that the God who created the world and set redemption into motion is a three-in-one God?

The Point

The Author of the story is our threefold God. God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were all active in creation—and redemption.

Respond

It’s easy to think that Jesus and the Holy Spirit didn’t enter the story until much later, but it is our threefold God—Father, Son, and Spirit—who set the world into motion, beginning with creation.

Praise God in all three Persons for their involvement in creation and the story of redemption.

Think about your personal story of redemption. Thank each Person of the Trinity for their role in bringing you into a relationship with the Father through the Son, empowered by the Spirit.

For further study, read John 1:1-13.

Behind the Story

The original audience of Genesis 1-2 would not have recognized Genesis 1:26-27
as a reference to the Trinity, since that concept wasn’t fully revealed until later in redemptive history. While theologians caution that we cannot derive the entire doctrine of the Trinity from one use of a plural pronoun, we can derive that there is plurality within the Godhead. This passage is the first of four Old Testament passages where the plural is found in divine dialogue. Genesis 3:22, 11:7, and Isaiah 6:8 are the others.

GODHEAD (n.) =Word used to refer to the three Persons of the Trinity, God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

All to Bring Him Glory

Posted by Karah

Pause

You will be living in Genesis 1 and 2 this week. Skim over it this morning, asking God to open your eyes to what He has to teach you.

“Then God said, “Let the earth produce living creatures according to their kinds: livestock, creatures that crawl, and the wildlife of the earth according to their kinds.” And it was so. So God made the wildlife of the earth according to their kinds, the livestock according to their kinds, and creatures that crawl on the ground according to their kinds. And God saw that it was good.” —Genesis 1:24-25

Writers create a setting in which to tell the story. It provides the backdrop for the story, but also sets the mood. Read Genesis 1:1-25 in your Bible. What does this passage tell you about the setting God created for His story?

Dig deeper by thinking through these questions:

Think about what you learned last week. How do these verses further acknowledge God as the main character of Scripture? Explain.

Note all the times God said that His creation was good in these verses. What does that help you to understand about the world God had created? Why?

God had created a perfect world where all things proclaimed His glory and worked according to His intention. While the world we live in bears the scars of sin, how do you see glimpses of that perfect world’s beauty and harmony today?

The Point

God created a perfect setting in which His story would unfold, one where His creation could experience the joy of His presence and glorify Him.

Respond

Creation was meant to bring glory to the Creator. Think about the glimpses of beauty and harmony you see in the world today that you just listed. Praise God for the ways you see even creation giving glory to Him. Sketch or record your prayer in your journal.

For Further Study:

Read Psalms 19 and 148; Isaiah 55:12; and Romans 1:20.

Behind the Story

In the pagan cultures that surrounded God’s people, the moon and sun were worshiped as gods. That may be why the usual Hebrew words for moon and sun are avoided in the Genesis creation account. (See Gen. 1:16.) It is clear from this account that the sun and moon are not deities to be revered or worshiped, but rather made to serve God and humanity.

The Main Character

Posted by Karah

Pause

Consider this quote:

“There are lots of stories in the Bible, but all the stories are telling one Big Story. The Story of how God loves His children and comes to rescue them.”
—Sally Lloyd-Jones in The Jesus Storybook Bible

Think about your favorite book or movie. A writer often uses the first scene or line to give you insight into the main character. What does the first scene tell you about the main character? How? Journal your thoughts below.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” —Genesis 1:1

With that idea in mind, read Genesis 1:1 and Psalm 92 in your Bible.

Look at Genesis 1:1. A story begins with its author, creation with its Creator. How does this verse help to establish God as the main character of His story?

Examine Genesis 1:1 and Psalm 92:14-15. What do these verses tell you about the purpose of the creation account? Is it more about glorifying God or being in awe of what He has made? Explain.

The Point

The story of creation begins—and ends—in our eternal God. It is more about Him than us.

Respond

The Bible doesn’t start with this story so we can be in awe of what God has made; it’s there so we can be in awe of God. Take some time to do that today. Focus your mind on God—not what He has done for you or what He has made—but on Him and who He is. Record your praises as a prayer below.

For further study of God’s eternal nature, read John 1:1, Ephesians 1:4, and Colossians 1:15-17.

Behind the Story

God is the grammatical subject of the first sentence in the Bible—and He continues to be the thematic subject throughout the entire creation account (Gen. 1–2). The recurring phrase “then God said” in Genesis 1:1–2:3 serves to establish Him as the primary actor in creation.

A Message of Hope

Posted by Karah

Pause

Imagine what the world would look like if everything—including your life—were as it should be. Thank God that He is a God who redeems everything.

We all have a death sentence. Respond to that statement.

Not to be morbid, but that statement is true. Sin has infected our lives and everything in the world. Scripture tells us that creation even groans under the curse of sin. We know that one day all of this will end. Now, read Romans 8:18-25 in your Bible.

“And not only that, but we ourselves who have the Spirit as the firstfruits—we also groan within ourselves, eagerly waiting for adoption, the redemption of our bodies. But if we hope for what we do not see, we eagerly wait for it with patience.”

—Romans 8:23,25

In your Bible, underline all the references to hope in this passage. As a believer, that word should stand out to you. As a Christian, you have experienced just a taste of the fullness of God’s redemption, but you can live with hope because you know that you will one day experience all the benefits and blessings of salvation when Christ returns and establishes His Kingdom.

Now, read Romans 8:18-25 again, this time from the perspective of someone who is not a Christian. How would that person respond to this passage? Jot down any words or feelings he or she might think or experience.

The news that everything will one day end is terrifying to those who have no hope. As a Christian, you have been redeemed and can live in light of the future hope of eternity spent with God. But many in the world around you do not have that hope.

Respond

If you knew the world were ending tomorrow, how would you react? Who would you want to know about the hope of an eternal future with God? Write the first few names that come to mind.

List some ways you will share the hope you have in Christ with those people this week. Jot down two of those actions points below.

Pray for a heart that is tender toward the hopeless, so that God can use you to reach those who still walk in darkness.

Behind the Story

Firstfruits is a word that’s often used in Scripture. Generally used to describe the first part of the harvest, which was offered to God as a sacrifice, the word is used to denote a gift of God to His children in Romans 8:23. Christians have the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives as a foretaste of our full inheritance.

The Point

Because we know the future we have with God, we can live with hope in a hopeless world.

Shout it Out

Posted by Karah

Pause

Ask God for opportunities to share God’s grace with others this week.

Think about the things you post on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or other social media sites. What are some of the things you are most eager to share? List a few below.

Read and study Psalm 107:1-3. These verses point to something those who have been redeemed by God should be doing. Underline it in your Bible when you find it.

“Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His faithful love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord proclaim that He has redeemed them from the hand of the foe and has gathered them from the lands— from the east and the west, from the north and the south.” —Psalm 107:1-3

Consider these questions:

What do these verses teach you about God’s character?
Why is that good news that the world needs to hear? Explain.
How has God been good to you? List some recent examples of ways you’ve experienced His goodness.

Respond

Those whom God has rescued from sin should always be talking about His goodness. Look over the list you created earlier. Who in your life needs to hear how God has been good to you? Jot down a couple of names below. Commit to share with them this week!
Read Psalm 107 in its entirety. This psalm details four different kinds of people who were in distress, yet God rescued them. Memorize the verses that speak to you.

Behind the Story

As a punishment for their disobedience, God allowed Israel to be taken captive in Babylon (2 Chronicles 36:15-23). But just as He predicted (Isaiah 45:1-7), God raised up a king, Cyrus to set his people free (Isaiah 45:1-17). This psalm specifically refers to God’s deliverance of Israel from the distress in Babylon. His purpose in their redemption was so they could proclaim His goodness. Why does today’s world need to hear about God’s goodness?

The Point

God redeems His people so they may speak of His goodness.

Motivation

Posted by Karah

Pause

Consider this thought: Legalism says God will love us if we change. The gospel says God will change us because He loves us!

Choose some of the reasons you try to do good works:

Feels good Makes parents happy

Makes God like me Looks good

To help my future To impress someone

Read Titus 2:11-14. These verses outline what the real motivation behind your good works should be. Circle that motivation when you read it.

“He gave Himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to cleanse for Himself a people for His own possession, eager to do good works.”

—Titus 2:14

Paul explained that the gospel not only gives us eternal life, but also restores us to the original purpose for which we were created: good works which glorify God. We are changed by God’s work—and now free to live completely for God.

Ask yourself:

The word rendered “eager” in verse 14 is sometimes translated “zealous” or “committed.” This reflects a passionate dedication to pursuing the ways of God. How have you seen this principle at work in someone’s life?
Why is God’s grace a better motivator for your obedience than fear? Explain.

Respond

How passionate and committed are you to pursuing the ways of God? Examine your life and your motivation for doing good works. Does it reflect a desire to please God because you know what He has done to save you or are you just following rules?
For further study, read Ephesians 2:1-10. Ask yourself this question: How does the gospel affect the way I live now?

Behind the Story

While Titus 2:1-10 outlines the lifestyle believers are to pursue, verses 11-14 provide the theological basis for it. Because we have experienced God’s grace and redemption, Christians want to live in a way that pleases the Father. That includes renouncing sin, living wisely, and pursuing righteousness. You cannot claim to have received God’s grace if you are not actively learning to walk in His ways.

The Point

We do good works not to earn God’s favor, but because God has redeemed and changed us.

Set Free!

Posted by Karah

Pause

Begin your time with God today with a short prayer. Ask the Spirit to soften your heart to whatever God has for you to learn from His Word.

Read and study Colossians 1:11-14. As you read, look for the five benefits Paul listed that God gives to all believers.

List them here.

“He has rescued us from the domain of darkness and transferred us into the kingdom of the Son He loves. We have redemption, the forgiveness of sins, in Him.” —Colossians 1:13-14

Rescued: Evokes the idea of God delivering His people from an oppressor. Skim over the verses that precede these verses. What is God rescuing His people from here?

Domain of darkness: In Scripture, darkness is often used to symbolize Satan or evil, while light refers to God. How has God rescued us from Satan’s kingdom?

Forgiveness of sins: Forgive literally means “to send away” or “cancel.” In Christ, God completely canceled the debt of our sin. That means we can’t earn God’s forgiveness. In what ways do you find yourself trying to earn His forgiveness or favor? Why?

Respond

Re-read verses 13-14 and ponder the word “transferred.” To be transferred is to move from one place to another. As a Christian, you’ve been transferred from darkness to light, death to life. You have been placed in God’s kingdom when you once lived in the Enemy’s. Examine your life. What examples of this transfer do you see at work in your life? List two or three.
If the examples of God’s light in your life seem dim, prayerfully ask God to search your heart so you can deal with any sin in your life. Confess any sin the Holy Spirit reveals.

Behind the Story

Written around the same time, Colossians shares many similarities to Paul’s Letter to the Ephesians. The primary focus of Colossians is to confront the “Colossian heresy,” false teachings that detracted from Jesus’ supremacy.

The Point

Because God has redeemed you, you are completely forgiven. You no longer have to live in sin’s chains.

Child of the Father

Posted by Karah

Pause

Take a moment and walk outside and look up at the sky. Repeat these words to yourself: I’m a child of God. I’m loved. I’m forgiven. I’m free. When you return, write them down on a note and put it on your bedroom mirror or car dashboard as a helpful reminder.

Think about the difference between being a child and being a slave. In the space provided, sketch the images or list the words that come to mind as you ponder each concept.

Child Slave

Now, read Galatians 4:1-7. Pay special attention to any references to adoption, sons, or heirs.

“So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son, then an heir through God.”

—Galatians 4:7

What’s the difference between a master/slave relationship and a father/child relationship? What rights or benefits do children have that slaves don’t?
What does it mean to be God’s heir? Why is that important?

Respond

The word “Abba” in verse 6 means “Daddy” and reflects intimacy and tenderness. That’s the kind of relationship God wants to have with His children. Spend some time with your Abba today. Tell Him everything that’s on your mind and pour out your heart as children do with their fathers. Thank Him that sin is no longer who you are. Record your conversation as a letter in the space provided.

Behind the Story

Under Roman law, an adopted child was considered equal to all other biological children in the family. Even if the child had formerly been a slave, if adopted, a son could inherit legal rights to his father’s property. As Christians, we are co-heirs with Jesus with all rights to all of God’s resources.

The Point

God redeemed us from the enslavement of sin and set us free to be His children.

Newer posts

Older posts

OUR PADDLES

I know you miss camp. Since you can't be with us, we want to bring a little Camp Ridgecrest to you each week. Here you will find weekly devotions to remind you of what you learned about God; news, pictures, and videos of camp as we make improvements or just do something ridiculous; and even some posts from the road as we travel to see you and your friends! We will update you a few times a week, so check back often!
CATEGORIES
RECENT POSTS

OUR PADDLES

CATEGORIES

RECENT POSTS