Welcome to 21 Days of an Altared Life
This is your moment to pause, reflect, and surrender. For 21 days, we’re setting aside time to create space for God to move in powerful ways—in our hearts, our families, and our community. This journey isn’t about adding more to your plate; it’s about clearing room for God to do what only He can do.
Equipping You for the Journey
To help you engage deeply in this season, we’ve created resources to guide and inspire you:
Daily Devotionals
Begin each day with God’s Word and thoughtful reflections to deepen your connection with Him.
Guide to Prayer
Learn how to spend intentional, meaningful time with God in prayer and grow in your ability to hear His voice.
Guide to Fasting
Understand the spiritual practice of fasting, with tips to help you choose and engage in fasting that aligns with your life and spiritual goals.
Family Guide
Gather your family for simple, impactful activities and prayers designed to bring you closer to God and to one another.
Sermon Follow-Up Guides
Dive deeper into the messages shared each week, exploring God’s Word and applying it to your life in practical, personal ways.
An altared life is a surrendered life. It’s about coming before God with open hands and open hearts, inviting Him to transform us. At the altar, we lay down distractions, burdens, and anything that keeps us from fully experiencing His presence. As we do, we’ll discover deeper intimacy with Him, greater clarity for our lives, and a renewed passion for His purpose.
Transformation doesn’t happen overnight, but it begins with intentionality. Over the next 21 days, we’ll take consistent steps to draw near to God, trusting His promise that He will draw near to us. Together, we’ll cultivate habits of surrender, reflection, and intentional pursuit of His presence—habits that will continue to impact our lives far beyond this season.
We believe these 21 days can set the tone for the rest of your year and beyond. As you engage in prayer, fasting, reflection, and family moments, we trust God will meet you in extraordinary ways. Let’s make room for Him and watch as He fills that space with His presence, His power, and His purpose.
Begin Your 21-Day Journey
This is your time to surrender, reflect, and be transformed. Let’s live the altared life, together.
Resources
Prayer Guide
Prayer is powerful—a declaration of trust in God. At Evangel, we “Pray Until Something Happens.” Whether you're new to prayer or want to grow deeper, this guide is here to help.
Fasting guide
Fasting refocuses your heart on God by setting aside distractions. This guide will help you prepare and embrace prayer.
family guide
Help your family grow closer to God. Through prayer, fasting, and meaningful conversations, deepen your faith and build lasting habits. Whether new to fasting or experienced, this journey strengthens your connection to God and one another.
Study guide
During the Altared series and 21 Days of Prayer, the sermon guides help you apply the message through practical insights and reflection questions, deepening your prayer journey.
Daily Devotionals
Day 21: A Life Altered at the Altar
Encouragement
Congratulations—you’ve made it to Day 21! These 21 Days of an Altered Life have been about transformation in the presence of God. As we finish, we commit to living as daily sacrifices, fully surrendered to Him.
Scripture
“I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all He has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice—the kind He will find acceptable.” –Romans 12:1 (NLT)
Teaching
Paul, writing to the church in Rome, reminds us that we are altered at the altar. He calls us to surrender our whole selves to God in worship because God isn’t interested in just a part of us—He desires all of us. It’s only through full surrender to Him that we can experience the deep, lasting change we long for. When we lay our lives on the altar, everything—our friendships, marriages, and all our relationships—can be transformed by His power.
As this final day of devotions concludes, let it mark the start of a new journey. Make it a daily pattern to come before the Lord, offering yourself as a living sacrifice and allowing Him to work in your life. Remember, the challenge with a living sacrifice is that it can crawl off the altar. Resist the temptation to pull back from the transformation God desires to bring. Instead, choose to pursue His presence every day, allowing Him to shape and renew you. May this be the beginning of a deeper, richer life of surrender and change in His presence.*
Key Truth: True transformation begins when we surrender our whole selves to God at the altar and commit daily to staying in His presence for ongoing renewal.
Think & Talk About It
- What areas of your life have you been holding back from fully surrendering to God?
- What would it look like for you to make pursuing God’s presence a daily habit? What has to be sacrificed for that to happen?
- When have you been tempted to “crawl off the altar” and resist God’s transformation in your life?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
What has been the most meaningful part of these 21 days of prayer and fasting for you? What has been the most challenging? Take a moment to reflect on these things, and thank God for the way that He has worked in your life in this season.
How Can We Pray for You?
We are sure God did some incredible things during this season. Take time to let us know. We would love to praise God with you.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for all You’ve done during these 21 days. Help me to live as a daily sacrifice, continually seeking Your presence and walking in Your ways–Amen
Day 20: A Fresh Vision of Christ
Encouragement
It’s Day 20! As we near the end of this journey, God is giving us a fresh vision of who He is and how we are called to live for Him.
Scripture
“Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the Last. I am the living one. I died, but look—I am alive forever and ever!” –Revelation 1:17-18 (NLT)
Teaching
Life often feels overwhelming, especially when we face difficult or isolating circumstances. John, the last living disciple of Jesus, knew this well. He was exiled on the island of Patmos, cut off from the people and ministry he loved, all for preaching the good news about Jesus. Yet, even in that place of isolation and hardship, John remained faithful in pursuing Jesus.
John tells us that he was worshiping in the Spirit and suddenly He heard a voice from heaven. It was Jesus! Overwhelmed by what he saw, John fell at His feet. But in that moment, Jesus spoke to him words of reassurance: “Don’t be afraid.” Jesus reminded John of an eternal truth: He is the First and the Last, the Living One who conquered death and lives forever. These words were meant to help anchor John in the greatest truth ever, that we have nothing to fear if we remain faithful to Jesus.
In the same way, when we feel overwhelmed by life, we must remember to pursue Jesus and seek His presence. It is in His presence that we find the grace, strength, and reassurance we need for whatever season we’re walking through. Jesus has already overcome, and because of His victory, we can live without fear.
Key Truth: In every season, we must be reminded that because Jesus has overcome, we do not have to be afraid.
Think & Talk About It
- When life feels overwhelming, where do you usually turn for strength and reassurance? How can you intentionally seek Jesus’ presence in those moments?
- John continued to worship and pursue Jesus even in isolation and hardship. What does pursuing Jesus look like in your own challenging seasons?
- How does the truth that Jesus has conquered death and is “alive forever” give you courage to face your current struggles or fears?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Reflect on a time when you felt overwhelmed or isolated. How did you experience God’s presence during that season, or how do you wish you had leaned into Him more? Write about how the promise of Jesus’ victory over death can encourage you to trust Him in any season.
How Can We Pray for You?
Are you feeling overwhelmed or walking through a tough season? Share what you are walking through so we can join hands with you in prayer.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we need a fresh revelation of Jesus in our lives so that we can walk through trials and tribulations of this life. Grant us the peace that can only come from your presence–Amen
Day 19: A Life Transformed by Grace
Encouragement
It’s Day 19, and today we reflect on how God’s grace transforms us. At the altar, He rewrites our stories, just as He did for Paul.
Scripture
“But the Lord said, ‘Go, for Saul is my chosen instrument to take my message to the Gentiles and to kings, as well as to the people of Israel.’” –Acts 9:15 (NLT)
Teaching
Sometimes we think we know exactly what we’re supposed to do, but then God steps in to completely redirect our paths. That’s what happened to Saul (later called Paul) as he zealously persecuted Christians, convinced he was doing God’s work. Yet, Jesus had a greater purpose for him—one that Saul could never have imagined.
On the road to Damascus, Jesus confronted Saul with blinding light and words that shattered his reality. Temporarily losing his sight helped Saul realize the spiritual blindness that had kept him from seeing the truth. Jesus was the way, the truth, and the life, and He had chosen Saul to carry His message.
But Saul’s transformation wasn’t a solo experience. God called a follower of Jesus, Ananias, to be part of this incredible redirection. Although hesitant at first—knowing Saul’s reputation—Ananias obeyed. He prayed for Saul, restored his sight, and laid hands on him to receive the Holy Spirit. This moment marked the beginning of Paul’s mission.
God still works this way today. Sometimes, He intervenes dramatically to redirect us when we’re heading the wrong way. Other times, He speaks to us about stepping into someone else’s story—to bring encouragement, healing, or even transformation. At the altar, we open ourselves to both—God’s redirection in our own lives and His invitation to be part of His redemptive work in others.
Key Truth: God can redirect even the most unlikely paths for His purpose, transforming our lives and calling us to follow Him.
Think & Talk About It
- Have you ever experienced a moment when God redirected your plans in a way you didn’t expect?
- What areas of your life might God be asking to redirect for His purpose?
- How can you position yourself, like Ananias, to be a part of someone else’s redirection and transformation?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
God wants you to follow Him, but sometimes there are things you’re holding on to that He may want you to surrender? Take a moment to ask Jesus is there anything He wants you to let go of in order to pursue what He has for you.
How Can We Pray for You?
Is there someone God has placed on your heart to reach out to? Share their name with us, and we’ll pray for you as you step out in faith and for God to work in their life.
Prayer
Lord help me to respond to your prompting. I want to let go of all the things that are hindering me from stepping into what you have–Amen
Day 18: Empowered by the Spirit
Encouragement
Welcome to Day 18! At the altar, God empowers us with His Spirit, equipping us to live boldly for Him.
Scripture
“And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability.” –Acts 2:4 (NLT)
Teaching
The mission God gave His people was never meant to be accomplished in their own strength. Jesus told His disciples to wait for the promise of the Father—the gift of the Holy Spirit. Through this gift, they would receive the power to be His witnesses and boldly proclaim the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
The disciples obeyed Jesus’ command and waited, but their waiting was not passive—it was active. They devoted themselves to prayer, seeking God with their whole hearts. In the place of prayer, they prepared their hearts to receive what God had promised. Then, on the day of Pentecost, everything changed. God poured out His Spirit, and the disciples were transformed. They began boldly sharing the Gospel, performing miracles, and seeing the impact of their witness multiply—not just in Jerusalem, but across the entire world.
In the same way, when we devote ourselves to seeking God and waiting on Him, we position ourselves to experience the transformative power of His Spirit. It is through these times of active, intentional seeking that we are empowered to be His witnesses and fulfill the mission He has entrusted to us.
Key Truth: We can only fulfill God’s mission through the power of His Spirit, and that power is released as we actively seek Him in prayer and wait on His promise.
Think & Talk About It
- In what areas of your life are you trying to fulfill God’s mission in your own strength instead of relying on the Holy Spirit?
- The disciples’ waiting for the Holy Spirit was marked by prayer and devotion. How can you make your time of seeking God more active and intentional?
- Have you experienced the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in your life? If so, how has it impacted your ability to share the Gospel or serve others?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Take some time to reflect on the role of the Holy Spirit in your life. Write about moments when you felt empowered by the Spirit to step out in boldness. How can you actively seek God’s presence and power more intentionally in your daily life?
How Can We Pray for You?
How can we pray for you to be empowered by the Holy Spirit? Are there specific areas where you need boldness, clarity, or a deeper connection with God’s presence?
Prayer
Father, I want to be people filled with your Spirit. Today, would you send a fresh wind of your presence over me again so that I would have the boldness to share your truth with those who need it most–Amen
Day 17: Drawing Near to the Well
Encouragement
It’s Day 17! As we near the end, God reminds us to draw near to Him as our source of life and strength.
Scripture
“But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” –John 4:14 (NLT)
Teaching
Every day we need to consume fluids to keep our bodies balanced. Without them, dehydration sets in. Most of us have experienced that uncomfortable feeling: dry mouth, fatigue, even a racing heart as our bodies signal that they’re running low on this essential element. The moment we grab a glass of water, we feel relief, and our thirst is satisfied.
But what about the deeper thirst inside of us? The one that no amount of water or success can satisfy? As Jesus was talking to the Samaritan woman He was inviting her to address that kind of thirst. She came to draw water for her physical need, but Jesus pointed to a greater need she might not have even realized she had—a thirst for the presence of the Living God.
Jesus said, “Those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life” (John 4:14). He was offering her something far beyond a drink from the well—He was inviting her into a life-giving relationship with Him, where she would be satisfied by something beyond her immediate desires.
Just as we can’t survive long without water, we can’t thrive spiritually without continually coming to Jesus. His presence is the only source that satisfies the thirst of our hearts. When we drink from the living water He offers, we’re not just restored for a moment—we’re transformed, filled with a spring of eternal life that never runs dry.
Key Truth: Only Jesus can satisfy the deepest thirst of our souls. When we come to Him, He offers us living water that restores, transforms, and fills us with eternal life.
Think & Talk About It
- What areas of your life feel dry or unfulfilled, and how might those areas point to a deeper thirst for God’s presence?
- Are there “wells” in your life that you’re tempted to draw from to satisfy your soul’s thirst, even though they don’t truly fulfill you?
- How can you prioritize spending time with Jesus this week to drink deeply from the living water He offers?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Without water we all become dehydrated, so we plan to carry around water bottles to help us stay hydrated. What are the things that you need in your life to stay connected to Jesus and continually drink from the water that leads to eternal life? Write out a plan that will help to keep you on track.
How Can We Pray for You?
Is there an area in your life where you feel dry or distant from God? Let us know how we can stand with you in prayer as you seek to drink deeply from the living water that Jesus offers.
Prayer
Lord, as I draw near to You today, I want to continually drink from the life-giving water that You provide. Help me to not be satisfied by the fleeting offerings of the world that can never truly fill me. Quench the thirst of my soul with Your presence–Amen
Day 16: Stepping Out in Faith
Encouragement
It’s Day 16! As we continue, God calls us to step out in faith, trusting Him to lead us beyond what we think is possible.
Scripture
“‘Yes, come,’ Jesus said. So Peter went over the side of the boat and walked on the water toward Jesus.” –Matthew 14:29 (NLT)
Teaching
When we bring our little faith to Jesus, He can transform any situation beyond what we could ever imagine.
Peter, a seasoned fisherman, knew the Sea of Galilee well. He had spent his entire life navigating its waters. But this storm was unlike any he had faced before.
After Jesus sent the disciples ahead to the other side of the lake, they found themselves caught in a fierce storm with the wind against them. As they struggled, Jesus came to them, walking on the water. Instead of recognizing Him, they cried out in fear, thinking He was a ghost. But Jesus reassured them, “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.”
Peter responded, “Lord, if it’s really You, tell me to come to You, walking on the water.” And Jesus invited him to step out of the boat. At that moment, Peter stepped onto the waves, walking on water toward Jesus, with his focus firmly fixed on Him.
While the other eleven disciples stayed in the boat, Peter was the only one willing to take a bold step of faith. In that moment, he wasn’t just a fisherman; he was a water-walker, sustained by his trust in Jesus.
We are called to be like Peter—to hear the voice of Jesus, trust Him, and step out in faith, even when the storms of life rage around us. When we fix our eyes on Jesus and respond to His call, we can do what seems impossible.
Key Truth: When we fix our eyes on Jesus and respond in faith, He enables us to rise above the storms of life.
Think & Talk About It
- Have you ever sensed Jesus calling you to step out in faith like Peter? What happened, and how did it impact your relationship with Him?
- What holds you back from stepping out of the boat when Jesus calls?
- Peter begins to sink because he took his eyes off of Jesus. How do you keep your eyes on Him in the midst of the storm?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
What is one area in your life right now where you sense Jesus calling you to take a step of faith. What would it look like to fix your eyes on Him and rise above the waves? Take a moment to journal what it would look like to walk on water in this situation, and what would happen if you stayed in the boat.
How Can We Pray for You?
What step of faith is Jesus calling you to take right now? How can we pray for you to trust Him more deeply and focus on Him in the midst of life’s storms?
Prayer
God, I want to be like Peter—bold enough to take a step of faith and meet You in life’s most difficult moments. Help me to fix my eyes on You and trust Your presence, rather than being consumed by the waves and storms around me. Strengthen my faith and guide my steps as I walk toward You–Amen
Day 15: Faith in the Storm
Encouragement
It’s Day 15, the start of our final week! This week, we focus on how God reveals Himself in our lives as we persevere. Sometimes, it’s in the storm where we see Him most clearly.
Scripture
“When Jesus woke up, He rebuked the wind and said to the waves, ‘Silence! Be still!’ Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm.” –Mark 4:39 (NLT)
Teaching
When storms rage around us, it’s easy to lose sight of everything except the chaos. The crashing waves and howling winds demand our attention, making us forget who is with us—and that He is greater than any storm.
The disciples found themselves in this very situation. Jesus had called them to follow Him, but they didn’t anticipate heading straight into a storm. Even seasoned fishermen were overcome with fear as the waves rose higher, and they dared to question Jesus, asking, “Teacher, don’t You care that we’re going to drown?”
Jesus, undisturbed by the storm, rose from His rest and calmed the wind and waves with a single command. These disciples had witnessed miracles—blind eyes opened, the lame walking, and the sick healed. But in this moment, their fear overwhelmed their faith. They had forgotten who was with them.
When life’s storms feel overwhelming, we must remember this truth: Jesus is with us. His presence brings peace, and His power is greater than any storm we will ever face.
Key Truth: In the midst of life’s storms, we can have peace because Jesus is with us, and His power is greater than anything we face.
Think & Talk About It
- When storms arise in your life, what is your natural response? Do you focus more on the chaos around you or on the presence of Jesus with you?
- Think about a time Jesus brought peace to a difficult situation, how was your trust in Jesus strengthened through that obstacle?
- What steps can you take to remind yourself of Jesus’ presence and power the next time you face a storm in your life?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
“Reflect on a current storm you are walking through. Write about any fears, doubts, or questions you have. Then next to those things write, “Jesus is stronger than my ‘_____’ because You are with me.”
How Can We Pray for You?
What storms are you or your loved ones facing? Let us know so we can join hands and pray with you to the one who can silence any storm.
Prayer
Lord, no matter what is going on may I have the faith to trust you through every storm. Give me the strength to look to you first rather than the winds and waves, and trust that you will silence every storm–Amen
Day 14: Listening for His Voice
Encouragement
It’s Day 14, our second Sunday of this journey! Today, we focus on hearing God’s voice and responding in obedience as we come to the altar.
Scripture
“The Lord came and called as before, ‘Samuel! Samuel!’ And Samuel replied, ‘Speak, your servant is listening.’” –1 Samuel 3:10 (NLT)
Teaching
There’s something powerful about hearing your name spoken by a familiar voice. Whether you’re in a crowded room or a quiet moment with someone you care about, hearing your name awakens something inside of you—it’s a reminder that you’re known and seen.
In Samuel’s time, God’s voice was rare, and visions were uncommon (1 Sam 3:1). It had been a long time since a prophet like Moses had heard from God, but He was about to do something new in Israel. Samuel, a young boy devoted to serving God in His house, was about to encounter the Lord personally.
When God called Samuel by name, he didn’t recognize the voice. It took three times for Samuel to realize it was God speaking, and even then, he needed Eli’s guidance to respond. Once Samuel replied, “Speak, your servant is listening,” everything changed. That moment marked the beginning of Samuel’s life as a great prophet, used by God to speak His words to Israel.
God still calls us today. He wants to speak to us, shape us, and use us for His purposes. But for us to hear His voice, we must prioritize time in His presence. When we slow down and set aside space to connect with Him, we put ourselves in a position to hear Him more clearly. Like Samuel, we must learn to respond, “Speak, Lord, your servant is listening,” and let Him transform us into the people He is calling us to be.
Key Truth: When we become aware of God’s voice in our lives, we can step into all that He has for us.
Think & Talk About It
- How have you experienced God speaking to you in the past?
- What are the distractions or barriers in your life that might keep you from hearing God’s voice?
- If God was to speak to you about something, how would you go about discerning if it is His voice, and what steps would you take to walk in obedience to what He has said?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Perhaps you are in a season where we are making some decisions or processing some things for yourself or your family. Take the next 5 minutes and stop and listen. Write down what God might be speaking to you. Take note, it might not be about any of the things on your list.
How Can We Pray for You?
Is there an area in your life where you need to hear God more clearly? Let us know so we can pray with you through that.
Prayer
Lord, I don’t want Your voice to be rare in my life. Let it speak louder than all the other voices that surround me. Help me to become more sensitive to Your voice and more familiar with it, so it feels as close and comforting as the voice of a dear friend–Amen
Day 13: A Vision of Holiness
Encouragement
Welcome to Day 13! When we draw near to God at the altar, His presence reveals our sinfulness, and His holiness calls us to live set apart for Him.
Scripture
“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies! The whole earth is filled with His glory!”
–Isaiah 6:3 (NLT)
Teaching
The altar is a place where things come to die, and the temple is where we bring our offerings to the Lord. Isaiah came to the temple at a moment of national uncertainty, following the death of King Uzziah. While there, he was granted an awe-inspiring vision of the Lord in all His glory, surrounded by the heavenly court.
Isaiah heard the chorus of heaven proclaiming, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of Heaven’s Armies!” In Hebrew, repeating a word emphasizes its significance. By declaring “holy” three times, the seraphim were proclaiming that God is utterly unique and incomparable in His holiness. So great is His glory that even the heavenly beings cover their faces in reverence before Him.
In the midst of grieving the earthly king, Isaiah encountered the King who cannot die, and the contrast left him overwhelmed by his own sinfulness and that of his people. Yet, God, the King above all kings, had a purpose for Isaiah. He cleansed Isaiah’s lips with a burning coal from the altar, removing his guilt and preparing him to be commissioned as His prophet to the people.
It is in God’s presence, in places of prayer and worship, that we are confronted with His holiness and our own need for transformation. The greatest offering we can make is ourselves for his service. Only at the altar can we hear His call and be empowered to step into the purpose He has for our lives.
Key Truth: In the presence of a holy God, we are transformed, cleansed, and commissioned to fulfill His purpose for our lives.
Think & Talk About It
- What does the holiness of God mean to you personally, and how does reflecting on His holiness shape your worship and view of Him?
- When have you been aware of your own need for cleansing or transformation in God’s presence?
- How can spending time in prayer and worship can help you discern and step into His commission for your life.
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
“Reflect on a time when you were deeply aware of God’s holiness and your own need for His grace. How has that experience shaped your relationship with Him?
How Can We Pray for You?
Are you walking through something like Isaiah that is driving you to spend time in God’s presence? If so, how can we join you in prayer through that?
Prayer
Lord may you invite me into your presence. May I see you in all your glory, and willingly obey your commission to go out into the world to be a mouthpiece for you–Amen
Day 12: When Fire Falls
Encouragement
It’s Day 12, and we’ve reached another Friday on this journey of an altered life. Let’s reflect on how God shows up in power when we come to Him in faith.
Scripture
“Immediately the fire of the Lord flashed down from heaven and burned up the sacrifice.”
–1 Kings 18:38 (NLT)
Teaching
The people of Israel had turned their backs on the Lord, exchanging the worship of the one true God for idols and cheap imitations. From the very beginning, God had warned them: “You must not have any other god but me. You must not make for yourself an idol of any kind…” (Exodus 20:3-4a, NLT). In their rebellion, God raised up a prophet, Elijah, to challenge their misplaced devotion and call them back to Himself.
Elijah called for a showdown on Mount Carmel between the false gods they turned to and their prophets, and the Lord. He declared to the people, “If the Lord is God, follow Him! But if Baal is God, then follow him!” (1 Kings 18:21, NLT). The challenge was simple: two sacrifices would be prepared—one for Baal and one for the Lord—and whichever deity responded with fire would prove to be the true God.
The prophets of Baal wept, wailed, and cut themselves, but no fire came. Then Elijah stepped forward, prayed in faith, and immediately the fire of the Lord fell from heaven, consuming the entire sacrifice. At that moment, the people recognized the truth: “The Lord—He is God!”
Nearly 900 years later, James, the brother of Jesus, used Elijah as an example of the power of prayer. He reminded believers that “The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results” (James 5:16b, NLT). The story of Elijah is meant to inspire us more deeply in prayer, to pray for the impossible.
Key Truth: Faith-filled prayer has the power to reveal God’s glory, and bring people back to God.
Think & Talk About It
- How does Elijah’s example challenge your faith and approach to prayer?
- Do you pray with the same boldness and expectation that God will move powerfully?
- When have you seen God reveal His power and faithfulness in response to prayer?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Think about an area in your life where you need to see God’s power at work. What bold prayer of faith can you bring to Him today? Write it down, and keep praying it out until there is a breakthrough.
How Can We Pray for You?
Is there anyone in your life that is far from God, and needs an encounter with His glory and grace. Let us know so we can join you in prayer.
Prayer
Lord, I want to see you move in power. Continue to remove the idols in my life, and increase my ability to trust you to do more than I can ever dare to dream or hope for.
Day 11: Offering of Pure Worship
Encouragement
It’s Day 11! Today we set ourselves apart for the work of the Lord, and commit our path to Him.
Scripture
“The glory of the Lord appeared to the whole community. Fire blazed forth from the Lord’s presence and consumed the offering.” –Leviticus 9:23-24 (NLT)
Teaching
When something is truly important to us, we set aside time and space to dedicate ourselves to it. This principle is seen in God’s relationship with His people, Israel. God set apart the nation of Israel as His chosen people, and within Israel, He consecrated the tribe of Levi to serve Him. Among the Levites, He designated a specific family to serve as priests, and from that family, one person was chosen as High Priest to represent the people before God.
Before stepping into this sacred role, Aaron and his family were instructed by Moses to prepare themselves for the immense responsibility they would carry. Once they were consecrated, they fulfilled their priestly duties by offering sacrifices to the Lord. In response, God demonstrated His approval and presence by sending fire from heaven to consume the offering. This blaze of glory was a powerful acknowledgment of their devotion and their commissioning to serve on behalf of the Lord.
Key Truth: When we consecrate ourselves to God, He empowers and commissions us to carry out His work, often affirming His presence in unmistakable ways.
Think & Talk About It
- What does it mean for you personally to be set apart and consecrated to God?
- When have you experienced a moment where God affirmed your obedience or devotion to Him?
- What steps can you take to prepare yourself for the work God is calling you to do?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Take a moment to think about how you can set apart your time, talents and resources for His purposes in this season of your life.
How Can We Pray for You?
Where in your life is God calling you to further devotion? If he is putting something on your heart or moving you into a new season, let us know so we can pray with you.
Prayer
Lord, I commit myself to you today as a servant. Use me where you would have me, and help me to remove the things in my life that are keeping me from deeper devotion to you.
Day 10: A Heart of Repentance
Encouragement
Welcome to Day 10! Today, we focus on repentance, which is about turning back to God with our whole hearts. At the altar, He realigns us with His purposes.
Scripture
“If you are returning to the Lord with all your hearts… He will deliver you.” –1 Samuel 7:3 (NLT)
Teaching
There are distractions in life that pull us away from being fully devoted to God. Israel’s story shows how even God’s people can drift. They were not always faithful to the One who saved them and set them free. When they faced war with their oppressors, they assumed God would deliver them simply because they were His people. In their desperation, they even brought the Ark of the Covenant—the symbol of God’s presence—into battle. But they lost.
That defeat was not the end of their story. Samuel, the prophet of Israel, called the people to a moment of repentance—a wholehearted return to God. He instructed them to cast away their idols, destroy them completely, and renew their commitment to follow the Lord. They fasted, confessed their sins, and turned away from their disobedience.
Repentance is not just saying you’re sorry. It’s a decisive turning away from sin and realigning your heart with God. When Israel repented, God granted them victory. The same is true for us: when we prioritize removing sin and fully commit to following Him, we can experience the freedom and deliverance He desires to bring into our lives.
Key Truth: Repentance is not just about confession; it’s about transformation—turning from sin and realigning our hearts to God to experience His freedom and victory.
Think & Talk About It
- What distractions or “idols” in your life might be keeping you from being fully devoted to God?
- When you face challenges or battles in life, do you assume God’s help without examining your own heart?
- What does true repentance look like in your life?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Take time to reflect on areas of your life where you may have drifted from fully following God. What distractions or sins are holding you back? Write a prayer of repentance, asking God to help you turn away from these things and realign your heart with Him.
How Can We Pray for You?
Are you struggling to obey God’s word? Let us know and we will lift you up in prayer.
Prayer
Lord, forgive me of my sins. Forgive me of the things that I have done that are contrary to your word, and forgive me of all the times I have neglected to do the things your word commands. Today, realign my heart towards obedience, and empower me to walk in your ways.
Day 9: Reflecting His Glory
Encouragement
It’s Day 9! Today, we reflect on how God’s presence changes us. When we spend time with Him, His glory shines through us.
Scripture
“When Moses came down from Mount Sinai… his face was radiant because he had spoken to the Lord.” –Exodus 34:29 (NLT)
Teaching
There are moments in life that leave a lasting mark on us: the day we get married, become a parent, or decide to follow Jesus. For Moses, his encounter with God not only transformed him internally but also left a visible mark on the outside. His face radiated the glory of God so brightly that the people of Israel asked him to cover it with a veil. This moment was a clear, undeniable reflection of God’s presence in his life.
When we spend time with God in prayer, seeking His presence, He changes us too. These encounters may not always leave visible marks, but they should leave spiritual ones—shaping our character, attitudes, and actions. The apostle Paul points to this transformation when he writes:
“So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like Him as we are changed into His glorious image” (2 Corinthians 3:18, NLT).
Paul’s words remind us that the more time we spend with God, the more we reflect His glory. Prayer is not just a conversation; it’s an invitation to be transformed. Over time, our lives should radiate the evidence of God’s presence to those around us.
Key Truth: Time spent in God’s presence transforms us to reflect His glory and character to the world.
Think & Talk About It
- How has time spent with God in prayer or His Word transformed you recently?
- When others interact with you, do they see evidence of God’s presence in your life?
- What steps can you take this week to intentionally prioritize time in God’s presence?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
What is one area of your life where you long to see transformation? Spend a moment reflecting on that area and asking God to reveal His perspective. Then, write down Scriptures that speak to this area of your life and commit to meditating on them as you invite Him to bring lasting change.
How Can We Pray for You?
Do you want to experience God’s transformational power in prayer? Let us know and we will pray for your prayer times to be more vibrant than ever.
Prayer
Lord, today as we draw near to you in prayer, may you draw near to us and let us leave the place of prayer marked by your presence.
Day 8: Show Me Your Glory
Encouragement
It’s Day 8, the beginning of a new week on our journey of being altered at the altar. Today, we boldly ask God to show us His glory and reveal more of Himself to us.
Scripture
“Moses responded, ‘Then show me Your glorious presence.’” –Exodus 33:18 (NLT)
Teaching
In life, it’s easy to rush ahead, focused on what lies ahead of us. The demands of the moment often distract us from the most important thing: God’s presence. As Moses journeyed through the wilderness with the Israelites, he understood this truth. He didn’t want to move forward without the assurance of God’s presence guiding them.
Moses knew the danger of being so focused on the destination that we miss the One who leads us there. That’s why, in this pivotal moment, he prioritized what mattered most. He asked to see God’s glory—a bold request that revealed his deep desire to encounter God fully.
God granted Moses this incredible moment because Moses chose the most important thing: intimacy with God. When we, like Moses, prioritize His presence above all else, we open ourselves to the impossible becoming possible.
Key Truth: When we prioritize God’s presence above all else, we position ourselves to experience His glory and power in our lives.
Think & Talk About It
- What areas of your life are you most tempted to rush ahead without seeking God’s presence first?
- When was the last time you truly prioritized encountering God’s presence?
- Like Moses, what bold prayer can you ask God today that shows your desire to experience His glory and walk closely with Him?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Take a moment to think about where the Lord is calling you to go in this season. Write about the areas where you feel uncertain, rushed, or distracted. Reflect on what strategies you might employ to keep your focus on His presence.
How Can We Pray for You?
Are there any distractions keeping you from what God has for you that you need removed?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, I don’t want to go where you are not going. I don’t want to take a step further than your grace would sustain me. Reveal to me your glorious presence so that I may know that you are with me and leading me where I am walking.
Day 7: Face-to-Face with God
Encouragement
It’s Day 7—the first Sunday of this journey! Today, we celebrate how drawing near to God transforms our relationship with Him. He invites us to know Him intimately, as a friend.
Scripture
“Inside the Tent of Meeting, the Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend.” – Exodus 33:11 (NLT)
Teaching
Moses’ relationship with God was marked by intimacy. He met with God “face to face,” speaking with Him as a friend. This closeness gave Moses the confidence and strength to lead the Israelites. Similarly, God invites us to approach Him with boldness and to build a relationship rooted in trust.
Spending time with God transforms us. When we seek His face, we come to know His heart. This kind of relationship isn’t reserved for a select few—it’s available to everyone who draws near in faith.
Key Truth: Intimacy with God is the foundation for living a life of purpose and courage.
Think & Talk About It
- What does it mean to you to meet with God “face to face”?
- How has spending time with God changed your heart and perspective?
- What steps can you take to deepen your relationship with Him this week?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Write about how you feel when you approach God in prayer. Are there barriers you need to remove to experience deeper intimacy with Him?
How Can We Pray for You?
How can we pray for your relationship with God to grow deeper and stronger? Share any specific requests.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for inviting me to know You as a friend. Help me to draw near to You with boldness and to trust in Your love. Transform me through the time I spend in Your presence. Amen.
Tips for Prayer and Fasting
- Prayer Tip: Use your prayer time today to praise God for who He is. Reflect on His attributes and thank Him for His faithfulness.
- Fasting Tip: As you fast, let your physical hunger remind you to hunger for God’s presence more deeply.
Day 6: Hearing God’s Call
Encouragement
It’s Day 6! God often reveals His plans when we draw near to Him. The question is, are you listening for His call?
Scripture
“When the Lord saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, ‘Moses! Moses!’”– Exodus 3:4 (NLT)
Teaching
Moses wasn’t seeking a divine encounter when he noticed the burning bush—it was an ordinary day in the wilderness. But when God called his name, everything changed. That moment marked the beginning of Moses’ extraordinary mission to lead God’s people out of Egypt.
Hearing God’s call often begins with simple obedience. Like Moses, we must take the time to “turn aside” and pay attention when God speaks. His call may come in unexpected ways, but it always leads us closer to His heart and His purpose.
Key Truth: God’s call often interrupts the ordinary. Are you willing to pause and listen?
Think & Talk About It
- What distractions might keep you from hearing God’s voice in your life?
- How can you make room in your daily routine to pause and listen for His call?
- Have you ever felt God leading you toward something? How did you respond?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Reflect on a time when you felt God calling you to something specific. How did you respond, and what did you learn about trusting Him through that experience?
How Can We Pray for You?
Is there an area where you’re seeking clarity about God’s call? Let us know how we can pray for you to hear His voice clearly.
Prayer
Lord, I am listening. Speak to me, and give me the courage to respond to Your call with faith and obedience. Show me the steps You want me to take today. Amen.
Tips for Prayer and Fasting
- Prayer Tip: Spend time in silence today, asking God to speak. Write down any impressions or scriptures He places on your heart.
- Fasting Tip: As you fast, focus on surrendering distractions that keep you from hearing God’s voice.
Day 5: Wrestling Leads to Transformation
Encouragement
Day 5 reminds us that wrestling with God is not a sign of weakness but an opportunity for transformation. When we bring our struggles to Him, He meets us with grace and strength.
Scripture
“I will not let you go unless you bless me!” – Genesis 32:26 (NLT)
Teaching
Jacob’s wrestling match with God was both physical and spiritual. He refused to let go until he received a blessing, and that persistence marked a turning point in his life. The struggle left Jacob with a limp, but also with a new name and a renewed identity.
We, too, wrestle with God at times—through doubts, fears, and unanswered prayers. But it’s in those moments of wrestling that God often does His deepest work. He doesn’t push us away for asking hard questions or struggling to trust Him. Instead, He draws us closer and reshapes us in the process.
Key Truth: Wrestling with God is not about overpowering Him but about holding on to Him, trusting that His strength will transform us.
Think & Talk About It
- What is something you’re wrestling with in your faith right now?
- How have past struggles with God deepened your relationship with Him?
- What does it look like to “hold on to God” in the middle of your challenges?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Write about a time when you wrestled with God over something difficult. How did He meet you in that struggle? What did you learn about His character through the experience?
How Can We Pray for You?
What is one area of your life where you feel like you’re wrestling with God? Let us know so we can stand with you in prayer.
Prayer
Lord, I bring my struggles to You. Help me to hold onto You in faith, even when the answers seem unclear. Transform me through this process and remind me of Your unfailing love. Amen.
Tips for Prayer and Fasting
- Prayer Tip: Spend time wrestling with God in prayer today. Be honest about your struggles, and ask Him to reveal His truth and strength in those areas.
- Fasting Tip: Let moments of hunger remind you of your dependence on God and your need to hold onto Him.
Day 4: Encountering God in the Everyday
Encouragement
It’s Day 4! Today, we reflect on how God reveals Himself in the ordinary moments of our lives. Often, it’s in the places we least expect where He meets us in profound ways. Are your eyes open to seeing Him today?
Scripture
“Surely the Lord is in this place, and I wasn’t even aware of it!” – Genesis 28:16 (NLT)
Teaching
Jacob’s life was in turmoil when he encountered God in a dream. As he fled from his brother, likely filled with fear and uncertainty, he stopped to rest. In that ordinary moment, God showed up in an extraordinary way. The place Jacob thought was just a resting spot became a holy encounter that changed his perspective.
How often do we go through our days without recognizing God’s presence? We can easily become distracted by routines, responsibilities, or challenges. But God is present in all of it—calling us to notice Him in the small, seemingly mundane moments. When we slow down and open our hearts, we create space for Him to reveal Himself in powerful ways.
Key Truth: God is always near, even when we don’t realize it. The more we intentionally seek Him, the more we will encounter Him in the everyday.
Think & Talk About It
- When was the last time you recognized God’s presence in an ordinary moment?
- How might your perspective change if you looked for God’s nearness in your daily life?
- What can you do to become more aware of His presence today?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Reflect on a time when God surprised you with His presence. Write about how that moment impacted your faith and how you can stay open to similar encounters in your daily life.
How Can We Pray for You?
Is there an area of your life where you need to experience God’s presence? Share it so we can pray for you to encounter Him in fresh ways.
Prayer
Lord, help me to see You in the ordinary moments of my life. Open my eyes to recognize Your presence and remind me that You are always near. Let every moment become an opportunity to draw closer to You. Amen.
Tips for Prayer and Fasting
- Prayer Tip: Begin your day by asking God to reveal Himself to you in your work, relationships, and even in quiet moments. Pause periodically to thank Him for the ways you see Him.
- Fasting Tip: As you fast, reflect on how slowing down from physical consumption creates space to notice God’s work in your spiritual life.
Day 3: Surrendering What’s Precious
Encouragement
Day 3 challenges us to trust God with what we hold most dear. Surrendering the precious things in our lives allows us to experience His greater provision.
Scripture
“Do not hurt the boy in any way, for now I know that you truly fear God. You have not withheld from me even your son, your only son.” – Genesis 22:12 (NLT)
Teaching
Abraham’s willingness to surrender Isaac—the son of promise—was a profound act of faith. He trusted that God’s plan was good, even when it seemed impossible to understand. This story reminds us that what we release into God’s hands is never truly lost. Instead, it becomes part of His greater purpose.
Surrender often feels risky because it requires us to give up control. Yet, God always provides. Abraham experienced God’s provision in the form of a ram caught in the thicket, and we too can trust Him to meet our needs when we choose obedience over fear.
Key Truth: True worship involves surrendering what’s most precious to us, trusting that God’s plan is far greater than our own.
Think & Talk About It
- What is one thing you’re holding onto tightly that God may be asking you to surrender?
- How does Abraham’s faith inspire you to trust God’s provision?
- What does it mean to worship God through surrender?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Write about something precious to you that feels hard to surrender. How might releasing it to God create space for His greater plan in your life?
How Can We Pray for You?
Is there a specific area where you’re struggling to trust God? Let us know so we can pray for your faith to grow.
Prayer
Lord, I surrender everything to You—especially the things I hold most precious. Help me to trust You with my whole heart and to see Your faithfulness in every area of my life. Amen.
Tips for Prayer and Fasting
- Prayer Tip: Take a moment to thank God for His provision in your life. Ask Him to help you trust Him with the things you value most.
- Fasting Tip: As you fast, reflect on how surrendering physical comfort mirrors the spiritual act of releasing control to God.
Day 2: God’s Promises Transform Us
Encouragement
It’s Day 2! Today, we focus on the life-changing power of God’s promises. His Word is a firm foundation that transforms us when we trust in it fully.
Scripture
“Do not be afraid, Abram, for I will protect you, and your reward will be great.” – Genesis 15:1 (NLT)
Teaching
Abram faced great uncertainty as he journeyed toward God’s promise, yet God met him with reassurance. This verse reminds us that God’s promises are not dependent on our circumstances or abilities but on His faithfulness. Abram’s story teaches us that trusting God’s promises transforms our perspective, giving us peace even when we can’t see the full picture.
Faith often requires waiting, and waiting can be difficult. Yet God’s promises are worth the wait because they are eternal and good. Abram trusted God, and though the fulfillment of the promise took years, it brought about transformation that impacted generations.
Key Truth: Trusting God’s promises aligns our hearts with His truth, enabling us to walk by faith and not by sight.
Think & Talk About It
- What promises of God bring you comfort during uncertain times?
- How does trusting in God’s Word help you overcome fear and doubt?
- What areas of your life need to align more closely with God’s promises?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Reflect on a specific promise of God that you’re holding onto in this season. How has this promise shaped your perspective or actions?
How Can We Pray for You?
What is one area of your life where you need God’s promises to take root? Share it so we can stand with you in prayer.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the unshakable truth of Your promises. Help me to trust You fully, even when I don’t see immediate results. Transform my heart through Your Word and remind me of Your faithfulness each day. Amen.
Tips for Prayer and Fasting
- Prayer Tip: Speak God’s promises out loud during your prayer time. Let His truth fill your heart and guide your thoughts.
- Fasting Tip: Use fasting as a reminder to replace worldly fears with confidence in God’s eternal promises.
Day 1: Build an Altar of Surrender
Encouragement
Welcome to Day 1 of this transformative journey—21 Days of an Altered Life. These next three weeks are designed to take you closer to God, inviting Him to shape and renew you. Today, we start with the foundation of every transformed life: surrender. Surrendering to God is not a one-time act but a daily decision to yield our plans, desires, and fears to Him.
Scripture
“Then Noah built an altar to the Lord… And the Lord was pleased with the aroma of the sacrifice.” – Genesis 8:20-21 (NLT)
Teaching
When Noah stepped off the ark, he entered a world entirely washed clean of its former corruption. His first act was not to build a home, prepare a meal, or secure resources. Instead, he built an altar. Why? Because Noah understood that the God who had brought him through the storm deserved his first and best.
Building an altar in our lives is a spiritual act of surrender. It’s saying, “Lord, You come first.” Noah’s altar was made of wood and stone, but the altar God asks us to build is within our hearts. It’s a place where we sacrifice our fears, pride, and control. Surrender can feel like loss, but in God’s economy, it’s the beginning of gain. When we surrender, we create space for God to work in ways we never could on our own.
It’s important to note that surrender is not passive. It’s an active, faith-filled response to who God is and what He has done. Just as Noah trusted God’s promise to never again destroy the earth with a flood, we trust that God’s plans for us are good. When we surrender, we invite God’s transformation—turning ashes into beauty, mourning into joy, and fear into faith.
Key Truth: God is pleased with the aroma of our surrender. Just as Noah’s sacrifice rose as a sweet fragrance to God, our willingness to trust Him deeply honors His heart.
Think & Talk About It (Reflect privately or discuss with someone)
- What are you holding onto today that God is asking you to release?
- How does Noah’s act of building an altar inspire you to put God first in your life?
- What might change in your life if you fully surrendered your plans and dreams to God?
Going Deeper (Journaling Prompt)
Identify one area of your life where you struggle to trust God. Why is this difficult for you? Write about how you can take one step of surrender today. Be specific about what surrender looks like and how you plan to walk it out.
How Can We Pray for You?
Take a moment to share one specific way we, as your leaders, can pray for you today as you commit to building an altar of surrender in your life. Whether it’s courage, clarity, or peace, we’re here to stand with you in prayer.
Prayer
Lord, today I surrender my heart, my plans, and my fears to You. I trust that You are good and that Your plans for me are greater than anything I could imagine. Help me to trust You as I build an altar in my heart. Transform me through this act of surrender, and let my life be a pleasing offering to You. Amen.
Tips for Prayer and Fasting
- Prayer Tip: Begin your prayer today by reflecting on times when God brought you through difficult seasons. Thank Him for His faithfulness and ask Him for the strength to trust Him with new areas of surrender.
- Fasting Tip: Let your moments of hunger remind you to pause and pray. Use these moments to surrender any lingering anxieties to God, trusting Him to fill you spiritually as you fast.
How Can We Pray for you?
Reach out to us to let our team know how we can pray for you.
- pray@evangelchurch.com
