As we begin the Advent season, we remember that we are citizens, not the King. Too often we climb onto a throne that isn't ours, trying to rule our own lives. But Advent invites us to step down from the throne and let the King be King. When we shift our identity from king to citizen, we find the freedom, peace, and joy that come from living under the reign of the One who has come — and is coming again.

Scriptures: 1 Timothy 6:13-16, 1 Corinthians 4:3-4, 2 Corinthianas 12: 7-10, Hebrews 4:15-16

God is our Creator—the One who shapes our identity and gives us worth. Made in His image, we reflect His character and carry His imprint wherever we go. And because He created us with purpose, our lives are meant to display His glory and join His work in the world.

Scriptures: Psalm 139: 12-17, Genesis 1:26-27

In a world that trains us to grab power and protect ourselves first, Jesus flips the script. In Mark 10:42–45, He shows that true greatness isn't found in being served but in serving. Moving from selfish to servant begins when we follow His example—laying down our preferences, lifting up others, and choosing the cross-shaped path where love leads and pride dies.

Scripture: Mark 10:42-45

Ruth 4 shows the beautiful redemption of Ruth through Boaz — a kinsman-redeemer who restores her future and name. But it points to a greater Redeemer. Jesus is the greater Boaz — He frees us from our sin and frees us for Himself, bringing us into His family and securing our eternal redemption.

Scriptures: Ruth 4: 9-17, 1 Peter 1: 18-19, Mark 10:45, Titus 2: 14, 1 Peter 2:9

God's providence invites our participation. Ruth steps out in faith, acting with courage and humility, while trusting God to do what only He can. It's a picture of how obedience and divine provision work hand in hand—our faithful steps align with His faithful plan.

Scriptures: Ruth 3: 1-18

Self-Control: Mastery over self for the sake of love and holiness. It's not about willpower alone, but about surrender—letting the Spirit rule our impulses, desires, and reactions so that love leads and holiness marks our lives.

Scriptures: Galatians 5: 22-23, Proverbs 25:28, Titus 2:11-12

Today in our Life Worth Living series, we're looking at Kindness and Gentleness—two fruits of the Spirit that reflect the heart of Christ. Kindness is undeserved action that meets real needs. Gentleness is strength wielded for the good of others, especially the weak, the wrong, and the wounded. Today, we'll see kindness and gentleness in Christ, and how His Spirit grows kindness and gentleness in us.

Scriptures: Galatians 5:22-23, Ephesians 2:7, Romans 2:4, 2 Timothy 2:24, Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 11: 28-30, Galatians 6:1, 1 Peter 3:15

Faithfulness, a fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5, is steadfast loyalty to God and dependable care for others. Loyalty means a long obedience in the same direction—staying true to God's Word and ways over time. Dependability means doing what you said you would do—living with integrity so others can count on you. Shaped by the Spirit, this kind of faithfulness reflects the unwavering heart of Christ in both devotion to God and relationships with people.

Scriptures: Galatians 5: 22-23, Luke 16:10-12, Provers 20:6

Goodness isn't something we can manufacture—it flows from God's own heart. On our own, we can't live truly good lives. But God did what we never could: through Jesus, He gave us a new nature. Now the Spirit grows His goodness in us, so that what once felt impossible becomes the natural overflow of a life made new.

Scripture: Micah 6:6-8, Romans 3: 10-12, Matthew 22: 37-40

After hearing of John the Baptist's death, Jesus withdrew by boat to be alone with the Father—but when the crowds followed, He stepped back into ministry with compassion. In the same way, when the world feels heavy and the week has been intense, God invites us to first draw near to Him, to be strengthened in His presence. From that place of renewal we can love in truth and stand firm against the enemy, ready to serve the people right in front of us.

Scriptures: Matthew 14: 8-14 2 Peter 3:9, 1 Peter 5:9, Ephesians 6: 12-13, 18-20, Matthew 14:14