5-day Bible reading plan and devotional guide based on the Sunday Message from November 2, 2025:
Day 1: You Are the Light
Reading: Matthew 5:14-16
Jesus doesn't say you might become the light or you should try to be the light. He declares with certainty: "You ARE the light of the world." This identity isn't based on your performance or perfection, but on Christ dwelling within you. Like an ordinary clay lamp that transforms a dark room, you don't need to be extraordinary to make a difference. The light isn't yours—it's His light shining through you. Today, recognize that wherever God has placed you is your mission field. Your workplace, neighborhood, and daily interactions are divine appointments. The question isn't whether you're qualified to shine, but whether you're willing to let His light be seen through your authentic life.
Day 2: No Hiding Allowed
Reading: Mark 4:21-23
We naturally want to blend in, to avoid standing out or making others uncomfortable with our faith. Yet Jesus makes it clear: no one lights a lamp to hide it under a basket. The purpose of light is to illuminate, to be seen, to guide others. When we hide our faith to fit in with cultural trends or avoid difficult conversations, we rob the world of the hope it desperately needs. Authenticity, not perfection, is what draws people to Christ. They need to see real transformation in progress, not a polished facade. This week, identify one area where you've been hiding your light. Perhaps it's at work, on social media, or in a relationship. Ask God for courage to let your faith be visible in that space.
Day 3: A City on a Hill
Reading: Isaiah 60:1-3
Ancient cities built on hills served two purposes: defense and visibility. As the church, we're called to be that unmistakable landmark in a dark world. Our distinctiveness shouldn't come from judgment or superiority, but from the character of Christ reflected in our lives. The way we love when others hate, forgive when others retaliate, and hope when others despair makes us stand out. Isaiah prophesied that nations would come to the light of God's people. This happens when our lives demonstrate something radically different from the world's way. Today, consider: what makes your life visibly different because of Christ? How do your responses to conflict, your generosity, and your speech reflect God's kingdom? Be intentional about one way you'll demonstrate Christ's character today.
Day 4: The Great Commission—As You Go
Reading: Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission isn't a single event but a lifestyle. The original language suggests "as you are going" rather than a one-time "go." This transforms mission from an occasional activity to an everyday reality. You don't need to cross an ocean to be a missionary; sometimes you just need to cross the street. God's mission has a church, not the other way around. We're instruments in His ongoing redemptive work. Every conversation, every act of kindness, every demonstration of integrity is an opportunity to participate in God's mission. The promise attached to this commission is profound: "I am with you always." You're never alone in this calling. Today, pray for divine appointments in your regular routine. Ask God to open your eyes to opportunities to share His love as you go about your day.
Day 5: Expect and Attempt Great Things
Reading: Acts 1:8; 2 Peter 1:3-8
William Carey said, "Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God." These aren't contradictory but complementary. God has already given you everything you need for life and godliness through His divine power. The Holy Spirit empowers you to be His witness right where you are. You don't need more talent, better circumstances, or a different personality. You need availability and obedience. The early church didn't wait until they felt ready; they simply obeyed and watched God work. Your mission field is exactly where God has planted you—with your unique gifts, in your specific community, among the people you already know. As you close this devotional series, commit to one specific way you'll shine your light this week. Who needs to see Christ's hope through you? What darkness needs His light? Step out in faith, expecting God to work through your obedience.
Day 1: You Are the Light
Reading: Matthew 5:14-16
Jesus doesn't say you might become the light or you should try to be the light. He declares with certainty: "You ARE the light of the world." This identity isn't based on your performance or perfection, but on Christ dwelling within you. Like an ordinary clay lamp that transforms a dark room, you don't need to be extraordinary to make a difference. The light isn't yours—it's His light shining through you. Today, recognize that wherever God has placed you is your mission field. Your workplace, neighborhood, and daily interactions are divine appointments. The question isn't whether you're qualified to shine, but whether you're willing to let His light be seen through your authentic life.
Day 2: No Hiding Allowed
Reading: Mark 4:21-23
We naturally want to blend in, to avoid standing out or making others uncomfortable with our faith. Yet Jesus makes it clear: no one lights a lamp to hide it under a basket. The purpose of light is to illuminate, to be seen, to guide others. When we hide our faith to fit in with cultural trends or avoid difficult conversations, we rob the world of the hope it desperately needs. Authenticity, not perfection, is what draws people to Christ. They need to see real transformation in progress, not a polished facade. This week, identify one area where you've been hiding your light. Perhaps it's at work, on social media, or in a relationship. Ask God for courage to let your faith be visible in that space.
Day 3: A City on a Hill
Reading: Isaiah 60:1-3
Ancient cities built on hills served two purposes: defense and visibility. As the church, we're called to be that unmistakable landmark in a dark world. Our distinctiveness shouldn't come from judgment or superiority, but from the character of Christ reflected in our lives. The way we love when others hate, forgive when others retaliate, and hope when others despair makes us stand out. Isaiah prophesied that nations would come to the light of God's people. This happens when our lives demonstrate something radically different from the world's way. Today, consider: what makes your life visibly different because of Christ? How do your responses to conflict, your generosity, and your speech reflect God's kingdom? Be intentional about one way you'll demonstrate Christ's character today.
Day 4: The Great Commission—As You Go
Reading: Matthew 28:18-20
The Great Commission isn't a single event but a lifestyle. The original language suggests "as you are going" rather than a one-time "go." This transforms mission from an occasional activity to an everyday reality. You don't need to cross an ocean to be a missionary; sometimes you just need to cross the street. God's mission has a church, not the other way around. We're instruments in His ongoing redemptive work. Every conversation, every act of kindness, every demonstration of integrity is an opportunity to participate in God's mission. The promise attached to this commission is profound: "I am with you always." You're never alone in this calling. Today, pray for divine appointments in your regular routine. Ask God to open your eyes to opportunities to share His love as you go about your day.
Day 5: Expect and Attempt Great Things
Reading: Acts 1:8; 2 Peter 1:3-8
William Carey said, "Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God." These aren't contradictory but complementary. God has already given you everything you need for life and godliness through His divine power. The Holy Spirit empowers you to be His witness right where you are. You don't need more talent, better circumstances, or a different personality. You need availability and obedience. The early church didn't wait until they felt ready; they simply obeyed and watched God work. Your mission field is exactly where God has planted you—with your unique gifts, in your specific community, among the people you already know. As you close this devotional series, commit to one specific way you'll shine your light this week. Who needs to see Christ's hope through you? What darkness needs His light? Step out in faith, expecting God to work through your obedience.