Summer of Joy - 20 Devotionals - Part 2
Summer of Joy Devotionals
Below you will find a part two of a 20-day solo devotional plan. This Summer of Joy reading plan walks you through Bible passages that will teach you what true Joy in God looks like.
If you haven’t done part one, go back and start at the beginning. Day one has some set-up reading that informs this devotional.
There is a free printable version of this devotional linked at the top of the page, with spaces to journal and take notes.
How to use this Devotional
You will need a journal (or your notes app), your Bible, and a favorite pen.
If you are in a group: Read the bible verses out loud together. Use the journal prompt as a discussion question.
If you are doing a solo devotional: Read through and complete the journalling prompts.
Suggested Reading Schedule
This reading plan was designed to be read twice a week for ten weeks. But you are welcome to read at whatever pace suits your summer.
Reading Eleven
Read 1 Peter 1:3-9
Mini Overview: 1 Peter is written by Peter to numerous churches spread out over modern day Greece, Turkey, and Italy. Peter was a key leader of the church after the resurrection, and helped expand the church beyond the Jewish people.
Journal Prompt
Verse 6 says “in this you rejoice”. What is Peter saying brings joy?
Why does the source of joy Peter describes allow us to stay joyful during trials?
As you are reading, remember to highlight or note instances of “joy”.
Reading Twelve
Read Psalm 126
Mini Overview: Psalms is located in the middle of your Bible, and is the largest book in the Bible. It is categorized as one of the books of wisdom.
Journal Prompt
Write out a prayer of gratitude for the good things that God has already done in your life.
Reading Thirteen
Read Isaiah 55
Mini Overview: Isaiah is in the Old Testament and contains more than 100 prophecies about Jesus. It is the first book of Major Prophets. It is found between the Song of Songs (or Song of Solomon) and Jeremiah.
Journal Prompt
What habits are leading you to seek joy and comfort in places “which do not satisfy”?
Reading Fourteen
Read Zephaniah 3:14-20
Mini Overview: During this time period the northern half of Israel had been conquered. Zephaniah warns of the coming destruction of Jerusalem and the southern half of Israel.
Journal Prompt
How can verse 17 give you comfort as you seek true joy instead of the world’s joy?
Reading Fifteen
Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-24
Mini Overview: 1 Thessalonians was written by Paul. He talks a lot about Jesus’ second coming and how that should inform our daily living. It is written to the church Paul planted in Thessalonica, and was consisted of mostly gentiles.
Journal Prompt
What do you need to let go of this week?
Reading Sixteen
Read James 1:2-6
Mini Overview: James was written by the brother of Jesus who became a follower after the resurrection. This book is often described as the “proverbs” of the New Testament because it has many short wisdom statements.
Journal Prompt
What does James say about the source of joy?
Write out a prayer and ask God for wisdom in this next season.
Reading Seventeen
Read Psalm 16
Journal Prompt
How can you express your joy today? Write out a list of ideas of how you can turn your heart to God when things are hard.
Reading Eighteen
Read John 15:1-17
Journal Prompt
What does Jesus say is the way to have “joy in full”?
Reading Nineteen
Read Galatians 5:16-26
Mini Overview: Galatians was the first letter written by Paul. It was originally addressing Jewish Christians who were struggling with legalism and understanding Grace’s role in our faith.
Journal Prompt
Pick a fruit of the spirit (v. 22-23) to focus on today. Write this word down in a place you will see it frequently. Reflect on your chosen fruit of the spirit before you speak.
Why did you choose this word?
Reading Twenty
Read Psalm 4
Journal Prompt
After reading twenty passages about joy, how would you define joy?
Look back at your definition from day one. How has God changed your definition?
What is God calling you to read next? If you are unsure, use this time to find another devotional or reading plan to follow. Say a short prayer and ask God to show you what your quiet time looks like in this next season.
