From Broken to Whole
In this sermon Pastor Jerry Shields emphasizes the mission of Jesus as one of hope and victory for those who feel like victims in life. He illustrates this through the story of a paralyzed man lowered to Jesus by his friends, highlighting the importance of community support during times of distress. Jesus not only addresses the man’s physical condition but also offers forgiveness for his sins, reminding us that true wholeness comes from spiritual restoration. Ultimately, Pastor encourages listeners to come to Jesus, seek healing, and glorify God for the remarkable transformations He can bring into our lives.
Check out the 5 Day Devotional below
Day 1
Luke 5:20
The encounter between Jesus and the paralyzed man demonstrates the profound significance of faith and support in our lives. The man’s friends showed remarkable determination to bring him to Jesus, overcoming obstacles without losing hope. Their actions highlight the importance of community and compassion, exemplifying how we can assist one another in our journeys of healing and faith. Life often presents us with limitations and struggles, but it is in these moments that we must rely on each other and on the grace of Christ to find restoration and wholeness.When we recognize our brokenness and reach out for help, we open the door for God to work in our lives. Just as the paralyzed man was lowered to Jesus, we too can approach Him with our needs, trusting in His power to forgive and heal. Let us remember that we are not alone in our struggles; we have a Savior who sees us, knows us, and cares for us deeply.
The encounter between Jesus and the paralyzed man demonstrates the profound significance of faith and support in our lives. The man’s friends showed remarkable determination to bring him to Jesus, overcoming obstacles without losing hope. Their actions highlight the importance of community and compassion, exemplifying how we can assist one another in our journeys of healing and faith. Life often presents us with limitations and struggles, but it is in these moments that we must rely on each other and on the grace of Christ to find restoration and wholeness.When we recognize our brokenness and reach out for help, we open the door for God to work in our lives. Just as the paralyzed man was lowered to Jesus, we too can approach Him with our needs, trusting in His power to forgive and heal. Let us remember that we are not alone in our struggles; we have a Savior who sees us, knows us, and cares for us deeply.
- What obstacles have you faced in your spiritual journey that have made you feel paralyzed or stuck?
- Who are the people in your life that God has placed to help you in your times of need?
- How can you be a source of support for someone who is struggling right now?
- Pray for the courage to ask for help when you need it.
- Ask God to open your eyes to the needs of those around you.
Day 2
Luke 5:24
In this passage, Jesus does more than just physically heal the paralytic; He addresses the deeper need of forgiveness. The act of forgiveness is transformative; it frees us from the burdens of guilt and shame. This message serves as a powerful reminder that our greatest need is not merely physical healing, but reconciliation with God. In a world laden with mistakes and sin, the offer of forgiveness is the most beautiful gift we can receive.When Jesus says, “Friend, your sins are forgiven,” He invites us into a relationship, assuring us that no matter our past, we have a pathway to redemption. Understanding our need for forgiveness isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a step toward wholeness and connection with God. In embracing God’s forgiveness, we can release the weight we have carried and step into the new life He offers.
In this passage, Jesus does more than just physically heal the paralytic; He addresses the deeper need of forgiveness. The act of forgiveness is transformative; it frees us from the burdens of guilt and shame. This message serves as a powerful reminder that our greatest need is not merely physical healing, but reconciliation with God. In a world laden with mistakes and sin, the offer of forgiveness is the most beautiful gift we can receive.When Jesus says, “Friend, your sins are forgiven,” He invites us into a relationship, assuring us that no matter our past, we have a pathway to redemption. Understanding our need for forgiveness isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a step toward wholeness and connection with God. In embracing God’s forgiveness, we can release the weight we have carried and step into the new life He offers.
- How do you feel about the concept of forgiveness? Is it easy or difficult for you to accept?
- What past mistakes do you need to bring to Jesus for forgiveness?
- In what ways can you extend forgiveness to others in your life?
- Thank God for His forgiveness and mercy in your life.
- Ask for the strength to forgive those who have wronged you.
Day 3
Luke 5:25
The immediate response of the healed man, who stood up, took his mat, and went home glorifying God, serves as an illustration of how true transformation leads to praise and gratitude. When we experience healing, be it physical, emotional, or spiritual, it’s vital that we respond to God with glorification. Our lives should reflect the changes He has made within us, which can inspire others in their own journeys of faith.It is easy to focus on our struggles and forget to celebrate the victories, no matter how small. In recognizing and honoring what God has done in us, we help cultivate a spirit of gratitude and worship. As we reflect on our lives, let us be quick to share our stories of transformation and the goodness of God with others, so they too may witness the remarkable things He does.
The immediate response of the healed man, who stood up, took his mat, and went home glorifying God, serves as an illustration of how true transformation leads to praise and gratitude. When we experience healing, be it physical, emotional, or spiritual, it’s vital that we respond to God with glorification. Our lives should reflect the changes He has made within us, which can inspire others in their own journeys of faith.It is easy to focus on our struggles and forget to celebrate the victories, no matter how small. In recognizing and honoring what God has done in us, we help cultivate a spirit of gratitude and worship. As we reflect on our lives, let us be quick to share our stories of transformation and the goodness of God with others, so they too may witness the remarkable things He does.
- When was the last time you publicly expressed gratitude to God for His work in your life?
- What tangible ways can you celebrate and share your healing with your community?
- How can you make it a daily practice to glorify God in your life?
- Reflect on the ways God has been faithful in your life.
- Ask Him to help you be a light to others by sharing your transformative story.
Day 4
Luke 5:21
As the religious leaders pondered who Jesus was and how He could forgive sins, we too must wrestle with that important question. Understanding who Jesus is at the core of our faith. He is not just a healer; He is our Savior, our Redeemer, and the one who has the authority to change our lives forever. Recognizing this can empower us to fully surrender our hearts to Him, trusting in His lordship over every aspect of our existence.Each day, we are confronted with decisions that call us to accept or reject His authority. Are we willing to submit our lives, our struggles, our shame, and our aspirations to Him? When we choose to embrace Jesus fully, we experience the richness of His grace and the depth of a relationship that leads to significant life changes.
As the religious leaders pondered who Jesus was and how He could forgive sins, we too must wrestle with that important question. Understanding who Jesus is at the core of our faith. He is not just a healer; He is our Savior, our Redeemer, and the one who has the authority to change our lives forever. Recognizing this can empower us to fully surrender our hearts to Him, trusting in His lordship over every aspect of our existence.Each day, we are confronted with decisions that call us to accept or reject His authority. Are we willing to submit our lives, our struggles, our shame, and our aspirations to Him? When we choose to embrace Jesus fully, we experience the richness of His grace and the depth of a relationship that leads to significant life changes.
- Who do you believe Jesus is, and how does that impact your daily life?
- What areas of your life are you struggling to submit to Jesus?
- How can a deeper understanding of Jesus’ authority transform your faith?
- Pray for clarity on who Jesus is in your life.
- Ask for the faith to surrender areas of resistance to Him.
Day 5
Luke 5:26
After witnessing the healing of the paralytic, those present were left in awe, glorifying God — a powerful reminder of the impact of God’s work in our lives. When we share testimonies of what God has done, it can stir faith in others, encouraging them to seek Him. We become vessels of His grace, showcasing how He has changed us from the inside out, giving hope to those who might feel hopeless.As we conclude this devotional, let us commit to being active participants in sharing these remarkable things with others. Our experiences can spark curiosity and desire in those around us to know Jesus more deeply. When we reflect God’s goodness, love, and transformative power, we not only honor Him but also help guide others toward a life-changing relationship with Him.
After witnessing the healing of the paralytic, those present were left in awe, glorifying God — a powerful reminder of the impact of God’s work in our lives. When we share testimonies of what God has done, it can stir faith in others, encouraging them to seek Him. We become vessels of His grace, showcasing how He has changed us from the inside out, giving hope to those who might feel hopeless.As we conclude this devotional, let us commit to being active participants in sharing these remarkable things with others. Our experiences can spark curiosity and desire in those around us to know Jesus more deeply. When we reflect God’s goodness, love, and transformative power, we not only honor Him but also help guide others toward a life-changing relationship with Him.
- What remarkable things have you witnessed God do in your life or the lives of others?
- How can you effectively share your testimonies of faith with others?
- In what ways can you invite others to experience Jesus?
- Thank God for the transformative experiences you’ve had.
- Ask God to give you boldness in sharing His works with others.