Palm Sunday 5 Day Devotions

DAILY DEVOTIONS 
Ready to dig deeper into your faith? Our weekly 5-day devotionals are like a guided conversation with the sermon. We'll ask questions, share Bible verses, and help you uncover amazing things about God and yourself! There is a new set posted each Sunday after the service. 

Embracing the Unexpected King: A Palm Sunday Devotional

Day 1:  When God's Plans Surprise Us

Scripture: Zechariah 9:9 (Prophecy of Jesus' arrival)

Reflection: We often have expectations of how God should answer our prayers or direct our lives. The people of Jerusalem expected a conquering king, but Jesus' humble entry challenged those ideas. Share a time when God led you in an unexpected direction. Were you initially disappointed? How did your perspective change?

Reflective Questions:

• What's one current expectation you're tightly holding onto?
• Why is it so hard to trust God's surprises, even if we can't see the full picture?

Action Step: Write down your specific expectation. Beside it, write "God, I surrender this to you. Show me YOUR amazing way, even if it's different from what I envision."

Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me let go of my tightly held plans. I trust that You have something far better in mind. Guide my steps and open my heart to the unexpected ways You work. Amen."

Day 2: The Power of Humility

Scripture: Matthew 21:1-11 (Jesus' triumphal entry)

Reflection: Jesus chose a donkey instead of a warhorse, highlighting His focus on serving, not earthly dominance.  How does this challenge your understanding of true power and leadership?

Reflective Questions:

• Where in your life do you tend to seek status, external validation, or control?
• How does Jesus' model of humility challenge those desires?

Action Step: Today, look for opportunities to serve someone without recognition or thanks.

Prayer: "Lord, forgive me for my pride and my desire for worldly power. Show me what true humility looks like. Help me to walk as Jesus did, serving others and finding my purpose in You. Amen."

Day 3: Tears of Love

Scripture: Luke 19:41-44 (Jesus weeps over Jerusalem)

Reflection:  Jesus' tears show us how deeply He cares, even when He sees pain and hardship. Share about a difficult season in your life.  How did Jesus' example remind you of His love, even amidst your suffering?

Reflective Questions:

• Are you going through a difficult season where you struggle to see God's hand?
• How can Jesus' tears remind you that He loves you, even during hardship?

Action Step: If you're struggling, be honest with God. Write out your feelings, your doubts, even your anger. He can handle it.

Prayer: "Lord, sometimes I don't understand Your ways. I hurt, and I feel lost. Yet, I choose to trust in Your steadfast love, even in the darkness. Give me strength and peace as I lean on You. Amen."

Day 4: The Call to Surrender

Scripture: Matthew 16:24-25 (Losing your life to find it)

Reflection: Jesus calls us not to an easy life, but to surrender. Share how this surrender might look in practical terms (career, relationships, desires). Why is surrender often so hard?

Reflective Questions:

• What's one thing you need to surrender to God today, even if it's painful?
• What fears hold you back from fully trusting Him?

Action Step: Choose one specific area to surrender.  Say out loud, "God, I give this to You." Then, carry that decision with you throughout the day.

Prayer: "Lord, I want to follow You wholeheartedly, but my will gets in the way. Help me lay down my desires and embrace the true joy of surrender to You. Guide me step by step. Amen."

Day 5: Finding Unexpected Joy

Scripture: Ephesians 3:20 (God's ability to exceed our expectations)

Reflection: When we let go of our limited plans, God is free to amaze us. Can you recall a time when God turned a disappointment into something far more beautiful?

Reflection Questions:

• How is God inviting you to dream again, to see the possibilities beyond your plans?

Action Step:  Ask God to open your eyes and heart to a new possibility He has for you that exceeds your own imagination.

Prayer: "Lord, fill me with wonder for Your ways! Help me dream again, and dream bigger, with You at the center.  Let me see Your hand moving in my life, bringing unexpected joy and fulfillment that only You can provide. Amen."