Foreword “Seven hundred fifty-six (756 or 72%) of the pastors we surveyed stated that they only studied the Bible when they were preparing for sermons or lessons; this left only 28% who read the Bible for devotions and personal study" (
Heartland Messenger, October 2008). There is no doubt we, as pastors, function in a very busy world as both personal and congregational needs clamor continually. The challenge to remain focused on the strength and purpose of our calling—the ministry of the Word and prayer (cf. Acts 6:4)—is nothing new as addressed by the apostles in the early church. The purpose of this devotional is to offer a tool in regaining, and then establishing, your personal time with the Lord. It is based on the book
Surviving the Anointing by David Ravenhill. To maximize this devotional I suggest creating a journal to record your thoughts and prayers. Besides the numerous journal styles for handwritten notes found at the local bookstore, an excellent electronic journal, called Evernote, can be downloaded free here
(link). To record your notes, thoughts, and inspiration in a Bible program for later reference I suggest E-Sword (
link).
Format After the reading of each chapter two to three days of supporting Bible reading are offered to expand on the chapter theme. As you read Ravenhill highlight his writings that speak
to your spirit. When you read the Scriptures let the Holy Spirit highlight His words to you and then pray what He has impressed
on your spirit. Finally, pray the suggested focus for the day. Don’t be constrained to a sequential 40 days in using this devotional and in reading the book; however, it would be best to read daily the Scripture references per chapter to maintain consistency of thought for each chapter theme.
Reading 1 Ravenhill: Preface and Introduction
Day 1: Read Proverbs 4 knowing it is a Word of instruction that encourages us to find wisdom. Purpose to keep your heart diligently today and prepare it to receive everything the Lord desires for you through this devotional.
Day 2: Read 1 John 1. Remember the initial freedom you experienced the first time you confessed your sin and were born again. Start today with that same freedom through repentance of any secret sin and thank the Lord for His faithfulness to forgive.
Day 3: Read Isaiah 21, especially verse 5, and then pray over your shield, see its dry areas that were split open by the arid wind of the adversary; anoint the cracks with the oil of intercession and see them restored.
Reading 2 Ravenhill: Chapter 1, Dependency
Day 4: Read Hebrews 5. Ask the Lord to ignite a renewed spirit to be taught by having ears that really hear.
Day 5: Read Acts 4. Commit to practice spending time with Him and pray that such would become your testimony to others.
