Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 1:18
18 For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, 
but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.

Dwell | MONDAY

Heavenly Father, thank you for the truth of Your Word. Allow Paul’s example of faithfulness in the face of difficulty to help me when I face challenges in life. In Jesus’ Name, I pray. Amen.

Read: Acts 18:1-11

Who did Paul meet there in Corinth? What do you learn about Paul’s approach to ministry, especially when he faced opposition?

 Have you ever felt discouraged in sharing your faith? How did God encourage you during that time? How does God’s promise to Paul in verse 10 shape our view of God’s presence and purpose in our lives today?

Just as Paul stayed in Corinth because the Lord assured him of His presence and protection, you too can remain faithful in difficult places when you trust in God’s promises. Encourage someone who is serving the Lord in a challenging environment-send a message, make a call, or pray with them.

Memorize: Begin memorizing 1 Corinthians 1:18. Write it out by hand.

Dwell | TUESDAY

Lord God, thank you for the assurance that You are sovereign over everything. Teach me through this passage to trust in your justice and rest in your protection as I serve you faithfully. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Read: Acts 18:12-17

What accusation did the Jews bring against Paul before Gallio, and how did Gallio respond? What happened to Sosthenes, and how did Gallio react to that situation?

What does Gallio’s indifference teach us about how the world often views the gospel message? How can we find peace when we are mistreated or falsely accused for our faith?

This passage reminds us that God can use even secular authorities to accomplish His purposes and protect His people. When facing opposition, instead of responding in fear or anger, we can choose to rest in God’s control and continue to speak the truth with grace and confidence. Read 1 Timothy 2:1-4. Pick someone in authority and pray for them.

Memorize: Memorize 1 Corinthians 1:18. Read through once. Then cover one phrase at a time and say it. Say it three times.

Dwell | WEDNESDAY

Father, thank you for the cross and the wisdom found in Christ alone. Help me to see clearly the difference between the wisdom of the world and the power of your saving truth. In Jesus name, I pray. Amen.

Read: 1 Corinthians 1:18-25

According to Paul, how is the message of the cross viewed differently by those who are perishing and those who are being saved? How does Paul contrast the wisdom of the world with the wisdom of God in this passage?

Why do you think the message of the cross seems foolish to the world today? In what ways might we be tempted to rely on human wisdom instead of God’s truth in our personal lives or in the church?

Look for an opportunity to share the gospel plainly with someone, trusting God’s power to work through the word and message He gives you to share.

Memorize: Memorize 1 Corinthians 1:18. Read it out loud three times looking away when you can.

Dwell | THURSDAY

Lord, thank you for choosing to display your power and grace. Help me to boast only in Christ and to find my identity and purpose in him alone. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Read: 1 Corinthians 1:26-31

What kind of people does Paul say God has chosen to accomplish His purposes? Why does Paul emphasize that no one may boast before God?

How does this passage challenge the world’s view of success, strength, and importance? In what ways are we tempted to take credit for what God has done in and through us?

Take time this week to thank God for how He has worked in your life, and look for ways to serve others without seeking recognition.

Memorize: Say 1 Corinthians 1:18 from memory. Check yourself. Say it again.

Dwell | FRIDAY

Gracious Lord, thank you that the power of the gospel does not rest in human wisdom but in Your Spirit. Teach us to depend fully on You as we share Christ with others in humility and faith. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

Read: 1 Corinthians 2:1-5

 How does Paul describe his approach to preaching when he came to the Corinthians? What reason does Paul give for relying on the Spirit’s power rather than persuasive words?

Why is it tempting to rely on eloquence, personality, or human methods when sharing the gospel? How can we grow in trusting the Holy Spirit to work through our simple, faithful witness?

Paul reminds us that the effectiveness of our witness comes not from our ability but from God’s power working through us. This week, focus more on faithfulness than perfection when sharing your testimony or encouraging someone spiritually-ask God to use your words, however simple, for His glory.

Memorize: Quote 1 Corinthians 1:18 from memory. Check yourself. Keep trying until you get it right.