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WEEKEND RECHARGE!

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July 19, 2026 

Monday, July 13–Luke 5:33–39
Tuesday, July 14–Luke 6:1–11
Wednesday, July 15–Luke 6:12–16
Thursday, July 16–Luke 6:17–26
Friday, July 17–Luke 6:27–36

Following the questions, see teaching from Robert Utley on fasting.

Below are reflective questions for you to prayerfully consider; choose one or two to focus on this week. 

  1. PRAY: Ask God to open your heart so you can hear him speak to you about the issue.
  2. RESPOND: Confession. Repentance. Surrender. Thanksgiving.
  3. ACT: Take the steps to do what God is calling you to do.

Questions for Reflection

  1. Like Levi, what is one area of your life where Jesus is calling you to trust him with radical obedience, even if it means leaving behind security or comfort?
  1. Where are you more likely to prioritize religious routines, personal preferences, or traditions over showing the mercy and compassion that Jesus demonstrated?
  1. The Pharisees were quick to judge Jesus while overlooking the condition of their own hearts. How is God inviting you to examine your motives and attitudes before criticizing or correcting others?
  1. Every disciple is called to represent Christ where God has placed them. This week, what is one practical way you can intentionally live as Christ's ambassador in your home, workplace, or community?
  1. In what area of your life is Jesus inviting you to trust his eternal promises instead of seeking temporary satisfaction from this world?
  1. How can you intentionally encourage someone this week who is experiencing hardship by pointing them to the hope and reward found in Christ?
  1. What specific step is the Holy Spirit prompting you to take so that your relationships more clearly reflect the love, generosity, and mercy of your heavenly Father? 

SPECIAL TOPIC: FASTING
Fasting, though never commanded in the NT, was expected at the appropriate time for Jesus’ disciples (cf. Matt. 6:16, 17; 9:15; Mark 2:19; Luke 5:35). Proper fasting is described in Isa. 58. Jesus set the precedent Himself (cf. Matt. 4:2). The early church fasted (cf. Acts 13:2–3; 14:23; 2 Cor. 6:5; 11:27). The motive and manner are crucial; the timing; the length and frequency are optional. OT fasting is not a requirement for NT believers (cf. Acts 15:19–29). Fasting is not a way of showing off one’s spirituality, but of drawing closer to God and seeking His guidance. It can be spiritually helpful.

The early church’s tendencies toward asceticism caused scribes to insert “fasting” in several passages (i.e. Matt. 17:21; Mark 9:29; Acts 10:30; 1 Cor. 7:5). For further information on these questionable texts consult Bruce Metzger’s A Textual Commentary on the Greek New Testament, published by United Bible Societies.

 Robert James Utley, The Gospel according to Luke, Volume 3A, Study Guide Commentary Series (Marshall, TX: Bible Lessons International, 2004), Luke 5:33.

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