Here's a 5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide from the sermon on 10/5: Promises - His Peace is With You. 

 Day 1: Speaking Truth in Love
Reading: Ephesians 4:15-16, 25-32

Devotional:
Paul's appeal to Philemon models how we should address difficult situations—not with harshness, but with love. When relationships become strained, our natural tendency is to respond emotionally, perhaps with anger or defensiveness. Yet Christ calls us to a higher standard. Speaking truth in love means caring more about the other person's heart than winning an argument. It means choosing patience over irritation, kindness over criticism. Today, consider a difficult relationship in your life. How might your words change if you approached that person as Paul approached Philemon—with gentleness, respect, and genuine concern for their spiritual well-being? Remember, love doesn't compromise truth, but it always delivers truth wrapped in grace.

 Day 2: The Power of Transformation
Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:14-21

Devotional:
Onesimus went from "useless" to "useful"—a dramatic transformation that only God could accomplish. His story reminds us that salvation changes everything. We are not merely forgiven; we are made new. The same power that raised Christ from the dead now works in us, transforming our character, redirecting our purpose, and rewriting our story. Perhaps you've struggled with your past, feeling defined by mistakes or failures. Today's reading declares a powerful truth: you are a new creation. The old has passed away; the new has come. God doesn't just cover your past—He gives you a future filled with purpose. What "useless" area of your life is God making "useful" for His kingdom? Embrace your new identity in Christ.

Day 3: Faithful in Every Circumstance
Reading: 1 Peter 2:18-25; Colossians 3:17, 23-24

Devotional:
Peter's teaching challenges us deeply: we're called to reflect Christ even in unjust circumstances. Onesimus had to return to a difficult situation, but as a changed man. Our faith isn't meant only for comfortable moments; it's tested in hardship. Do you have a difficult boss, a challenging relationship, or an unfair situation? These aren't obstacles to your witness—they're opportunities. When we respond to harshness with grace, to injustice with integrity, and to difficulty with faithfulness, we demonstrate that Christ truly lives in us. The world expects Christians to act like Christ when life is good. They're watching to see if we'll act like Christ when life is hard. Whatever you do today, do it as unto the Lord, knowing your ultimate reward comes from Him.

 Day 4: God's Mysterious Timing
Reading: Romans 8:28-30; Ecclesiastes 3:1-11

Devotional:
"Perhaps this is why he left you," Paul suggests to Philemon. God's timing rarely matches our expectations, yet His purposes are always perfect. Onesimus spent years in a Christian household but didn't come to faith until after he ran away. This mystery should encourage every parent, friend, or believer who has faithfully shared Christ only to see someone walk away. The seeds you plant don't always bloom on your timeline. God orchestrates circumstances we cannot see, working in ways we cannot comprehend. What situation in your life feels purposeless or painful? Trust that God is weaving something eternal from your temporary trials. Keep praying. Keep witnessing. Keep trusting. You may not see the harvest, but God is always working.

Day 5: Eternal Perspective
Reading: Philemon 1:8-16; 2 Corinthians 4:16-18

Devotional:
Philemon lost a slave but gained a brother—a trade that favored eternity over the temporal. This is the perspective shift God calls us to make daily. We're so easily consumed by immediate concerns: finances, comfort, reputation, control. Yet Paul challenges us to see beyond the moment. What matters eternally? Relationships redeemed. Lives transformed. The kingdom expanded. Your past doesn't define you; God's purpose does. Every setback, every loss, every painful chapter can become part of God's greater story if you surrender it to Him. Today, ask God to give you His eternal perspective on your current circumstances. What temporary thing are you clinging to that might be preventing you from receiving something eternal? Trust His plan. It's always better than yours.

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