November 16 – 22

Curated Reading for November 16 – 22

Sermon Series: Countercultural Week 4
Sermon Title: A Peaceful Presence in a Conflicted Culture delivered on November 16, 2025

View Sermon Notes →
Day 1 READ: Matthew 14:1-14. Who was John the Baptist, in particular, to Jesus? How was he unjustly executed? How did the disciples respond, and what was Jesus’ response to the devastating news? What picture of Jesus stands out to you?
Day 1 PRAY: Take a moment and thank Jesus for His unwavering commitment to go to the cross to make peace for you. Invite Him to show you an area in your life where you are struggling or dealing with turmoil. Ask Him to grant you His peace in that situation and give you a renewed sense of confidence in following Him in this season.
Day 2 READ: Colossians 3:1-17. How are things in this world often peacebreakers? What actions did Paul tell us to focus on to help us guard our peace and restore it when we have been in conflict? What does it look like in your life to “let the peace of Christ rule in your heart”?
Day 2 PRAY: Thank Jesus for the people in your life and the joy they bring. Invite Him to show any of those relationships that might be struggling or living in conflict. Ask Him to show you practical ways to help you make peace, extend peace, or seek a first step towards peace. Commit to taking one step this week in obedience to His leading in these relationships.
Day 3 READ: 1 Timothy 1:1-10. As you read this passage, what are the different ways we can fuel conflict and disorder? What does it mean to live a life of godliness and holiness practically? What impact can this have on those who are far from Jesus?
Day 3 PRAY: Find some time to be alone with God today. Invite Him to show you one area in your life you can live with greater alignment with His Word. Ask him to show you how you can better walk in godliness and holiness this week. Write down this area and what step you are taking (and share it with someone you trust to hold you accountable).
Day 4 READ: Matthew 5:1-13. Jesus outlines several ways we can experience God’s blessings and live in freedom. What does it mean to be a peacemaker? How can we practically live this out? How does this stand out as salt and light in today’s culture?
Day 4 PRAY: Thank Jesus for His presence in your life and His invitation for you to be a peacemaker. Invite Him to show you one person or group you can offer to be a bridge, builder, and peacemaker. Ask Him to show you some practical ways you could facilitate the peace process in those friendships/family situations.
Day 5 READ: John 14:15-31‬. What does Jesus mean when he says, “My peace I leave with you”? How does the Holy Spirit help remind us of this truth? How does Jesus offer a peace that is not the world’s offer for peace? What areas in your life are you experiencing troubles, frustrations, conflict, or challenges? How do Jesus' words here help encourage you?
Day 5 PRAY: Pause and thank Jesus for His peaceful presence in your life and His promise of peace everlasting. Invite Him to take the areas you listed above and bring His peace in each situation. Ask Him to give you the strength to take whatever steps are necessary to partner with Him in the peacemaking process of your mind and heart!

Memorize and Reflect

Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.

Countercultural Weekly Challenge

  1. Get alone with God – Base Your Confidence in Him.
  2. Get into the Bible – Build Your Confidence on His Word.
  3. Get in a Group – Bolster Your Confidence by Connecting in Community,
  4. Get a New Playlist – Boost Your Confidence by Celebrating our Creator.
  5. 5 Rules of Social Media Engagement