Real Belonging Day 1
Day 1: Breaking Free from Small Stories
Life often feels like walking into a movie late, leaving us living according to limited narratives shaped by past experiences and hurts. These small stories keep us focused on ourselves, our control, and our abilities, often rooted in pain or fear. God's larger story reveals how He works through His church to accomplish His purposes. Moving from our small stories to God's grand narrative involves recognizing broken narratives, embracing vulnerability, experiencing God's love through His people, and letting go of control. Through this journey, we can find our place in God's greater purpose and understand our true identity as His chosen people.
Find the Sermon HERE.
Devotional
We all have stories we tell ourselves. These narratives often come from childhood experiences, painful moments, or messages we've internalized over time. They whisper lies about our worth, capabilities, and place in the world. But God invites us to step into a bigger story - His story. When we recognize that our limited narratives don't define us, we begin a journey of transformation. Just as a butterfly emerges from its cocoon, God wants to free us from the confines of our small stories into the expansive reality of His love and purpose.
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
- Jeremiah 29:11
Reflection Question
What small story or limiting narrative have you been telling yourself? How might God want to rewrite that story?
Satan wants to give us a false narrative.
And this passage is all about connecting us to God's big story,
this big picture.
~ Sean Stewart
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me recognize the limiting stories I've believed about myself. Give me courage to let go of these narratives and embrace the greater story You're writing in my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.