21 Days of Prayer and Fasting

Cucamonga Christian Fellowship

DEVOTIONAL BOOKLET

He is the ARTIST w

e are His

MASTERPIECE to be on DISPLAY for

all the world

to see!

1

Congratulations! By picking up this devotional I believe you are about to experience our God in

new and powerful ways over the next 21 days. You might want to say this

congratulation is a little pre-mature! I don’t think so. When it comes to fasting every step

taken into this spiritual discipline is a great one that needs to be encouraged!

As we begin 2015 together, we are asking our entire CCF

family to utilize the discipline of fasting to

begin the year. This year, our fast is going to be an

amazing journey into the Heart of the Artist.

We are so excited to partner with you as we all discover

new, unique, and beautiful ways in church God can reveal creative love and expressive grace

in our lives. As we begin this adventure, our prayer is that throughout our time together, we will

all come to know God as the ARTIST, we as His MASTERPIECES and DISPLAY this in our lives

for the world to see.

Our hope is that for each day, whether it is a song, picture or poem, that you would set aside

time to reflect upon the creativity of the Artist and the artists in our body. We pray that you will

prayerfully and reflectively challenge yourself (and your family) to step into deeper places of art

in your lives together. We are believing that you will find yourself captivated by the creative

heart of our Lord throughout these 21 days, and will truly come to know and partner in God’s

Artwork.

Pastor Fraser & JoAnne Venter

… with special thanks to Pastor Cameron Beyenberg and the artists of CCF

- who have filled the pages of this devotional with incredible expressions of

God’s creative love at work in their lives.

He is the ARTIST we are His

MASTERPIECE to be on DISPLAY

for all the world to see!

[2 Corinthians 5:17]

21 Days of Prayer & Fasting

Before you begin

Schedule Ideas

How to use this devotional

Goals & Commitments Worksheet

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

Day 9

Day 10

Day 11

Day 12

Day 13

Day 14

Day 15

Day 16

Day 17

Day 18

Day 19

Day 20

Day 21

Appendix:

Before You Fast by Arthur Wallis

Physical Preparation

How To Finish Your Fast In A Healthy Way

Helpful tips

Acknowledgements

Contents PAGE

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43

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60

62

63

64

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How you begin and conduct your fast will largely determine your success. I

believe by following these seven basic steps to fasting, you will make your time with the

Lord more meaningful and spiritually rewarding.

1. Read the Fasting Information Booklet written by Dani Falcioni (available in the

Lobby). This is a great resource as a general overview, refresher or reminder of the

basics of fasting.

2. Set Your Goal: Ask yourself… “In what ways can I be more creative in my

relationship with God? With others? What new ways can I creatively love and create

with God this year?” Ask the Holy Spirit to clarify His leading and objectives for your

fast. This will enable you to pray more specifically and strategically.

(Complete your goals on Page 7)

3. Determine Your Commitment: Pray about the kind of fast you should

undertake. Jesus implied that all of His followers should fast (Matthew 6:16-18; 9:14

-15). For Him it was a matter of when believers would fast, not if they would do it.

Before you fast, decide the following up front:

How long you will fast. All 21 days? One day a week? (Beginners should start slowly,

building up to longer times of fasting.)

What type of fast does God want you to undertake? Such as water only, or water and

juices; one meal a day, an item, entertainment, etc.) If you have any questions about

what to fast, please speak to others who can help with discernment and accountability.

What physical or social activities will you restrict?

How much time you will devote to prayer and God's Word each day. Having a schedule

is key (See Page 61 for Scheduling Ideas) and making these commitments ahead of

time will help you sustain your fast when physical temptations and life's pressures

tempt you to abandon it.

Before You Begin

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4. Set your place: A place is more than a physical location where you will go to sit and

listen for the voice of God. It is the place of rest and peace of mind. It is where your

mind can be renewed, your heart changed, your emotions prepared and your spirit

refreshed. It needs to be a place of minimal interruptions.

5. Prepare yourself spiritually: The very foundation of fasting and prayer is repentance.

Un-confessed sin will hinder your prayers. Here are several things you can do to

prepare your heart:

Ask God to help you make a comprehensive list of your sins.

Confess every sin that the Holy Spirit calls to your remembrance and accept God's

forgiveness (1 John 1:9).

Seek forgiveness from all whom you have offended, and forgive all who have hurt you

(Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4).

Make restitution as the Holy Spirit leads you.

Ask God to fill you with His Holy Spirit according to His command in Ephesians 5:18

and His promise in 1 John 5:14-15.

Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ as your Lord and Master; refuse to obey your

worldly nature (Romans 12:1-2).

Meditate on the attributes of God, His love, sovereignty, power, wisdom, faithfulness,

grace, compassion etc. (Psalm 48:9-10, 103:1-8, 11-13).

Begin your time of fasting and prayer with an expectant heart (Hebrews 11:6).

Do not underestimate spiritual opposition. Satan sometimes intensifies the natural

battle between body and spirit (Galatians 5:16-17).

6. Prepare yourself physically: Fasting requires reasonable precautions. Consult your

physician first, especially if you take prescription medication, have a chronic ailment,

or are pregnant. Some persons should never fast without professional supervision.

Physical preparation makes the drastic change in your eating routine a little easier so

that you can turn your full attention to the Lord in prayer. Do not rush into your fast.

Prepare your body. Eat smaller meals before starting a fast. Avoid high-fat and

sugary foods. (See Page 62 for Physical Preparation ideas)

7. Expected results: If you sincerely humble yourself before the Lord, repent, pray & seek

God's face; if you consistently meditate on His Word, you will experience a

heightened awareness of His presence and spiritual insight (John 14:21). Your

confidence and faith in God will be strengthened. You will feel mentally, spiritually

& physically refreshed. You will see answers to your prayers. 4

A single fast, however, is not a spiritual cure-all. Just as we need fresh infillings

of the Holy Spirit daily, we also need new times of fasting before God.

Remember it takes time to build your spiritual fasting muscles. If you fail to make

it through your first fast, do not be discouraged. As soon as possible, undertake

another fast until you do succeed. God will honor you for your faithfulness.

Caution: Please Read!

5

Schedule Ideas For maximum spiritual benefit, set aside ample time to be alone with the Lord. Listen for

His leading. The more time you spend with Him, the more meaningful your fast will be.

Morning Begin your day in praise and worship.

Read and meditate on God's Word, preferably on your knees.

Invite the Holy Spirit to work in you to will and to act according to His good pleasure

(Philippians 2:13).

Invite God to use you. Ask Him to show you how to influence your world, your family,

your church, your community, your country and beyond.

Pray for His vision for your life and empowerment to do His will.

Noon Return to prayer and God's Word.

Take a short prayer walk.

Spend time in intercessory prayer for your community and national leaders, for the

world's unreached millions, for your family or special needs.

Evening Get alone for an unhurried time of "seeking His face."

If others are fasting with you, meet together for prayer.

Avoid television or any other distraction that may dampen your spiritual focus.

This booklet provides you with 21 days of short devotionals based around the

creative expressions of people within our own CCF Church Family through:

Music

Artwork

Poetry

And more...

Steps for Success:

Make sure you set a time and choose a space to do your devotional. If you

miss a day just pick up where you are and add the day(s) you missed.

Take a look at your Goals & Commitments Worksheet (Page 7) each day.

During the fast, be sure to read 2 Corinthians 5:17 and reflect on God as your

Artist, you as His Masterpiece and how you can Display that to the world.

Fasting is a continual prayer before God but it becomes even more effective

when combined with God’s Word.

Read the devotional of the day, respond by saying the written prayer, and

reflect in some way using the journal space at bottom of the page. Write

down any impression that you feel from the Holy Spirit during your time with

Him. It may occur later in the day, so be prepared to jot it down as it comes.

Prayer and hearing from God are key components- don’t skip them!

If you forget or misplace your devotional, a copy can be found in the Fasting

section of our CCF App or on our website (ccflive.org/annual-fast), along

with daily reminders through CCF’s Facebook page (facebook.com/ccflive).

Write down any victories or struggles that you may experience during the fast.

This could be the area God wants the most breakthrough for you.

Don’t get discouraged if you slip up. Ask God why you may have slipped,

receive His grace and start again. “No condemnation for those in Christ

Jesus!” (Romans 8:1)

Break the fast slowly (Page 63 - “How to finish your fast”).

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How to use this Devotional

Goals & Commitments Worksheet

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MY 21-DAY FAST BEGINS TODAY!

I have read the Fasting Information Booklet

The reason I am Fasting: (GOAL)

I am believing to see creativity released in me through:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Other Area: ________________________________________________________

I will be fasting from (COMMITMENT):

________________________________________________________________________

I am committing to fasting from (date) _______ to (date) ______

21 Days

_______ # of days during the week

Other time frame:______________________________________

My time for devotion will be _______________________________________________

My space for devotion will be _____________________________________________

I will be accountable to____________________________________________________

As you begin this journey, you will find no greater guide than God’s Word.

As you begin each day, I encourage you to set aside time to read and reflect on

the following verse:

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has

come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

- 2 Corinthians 5:17

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Scripture

Be sure to stay connected during your fast!

Share your prayer requests, praise reports, fasting experiences and more

through our Church App, facebook.com/ccflive or our website - ccflive.org.

“My heart is overflowing with a good theme; I recite my composition concerning the

King; My tongue is the pen of a ready writer.” - Psalm 45:1 (NKJV)

Day 1 - Poetry

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Read

God’s Artwork

By: Cameron Beyenberg

my life is the very creation of a Creator who causes creation to flow

its my life that is written with blood signed and sealed as white as snow

its my redemption, my salvation, the process of being restored

to a Father i’ve turned my back on and tried to close relationship’s doors

yet He writes a greater story, a better composition than my decisions of history

and has created and recreated a heart that overflows with this great mystery:

my life is the handiwork of the Greatest Author of all time and beyond,

His pen strokes are perfecting and restoring into a unified bond,

my heart is His paper, redefining the places i have chosen another route

and He continues to compose clearly the beauty of what is being fleshed out,

by a Spirit alive, inscribing His life eternal and abundant upon me

the artwork created, recreated and born again in glory:

His name is the Author and Finisher and what He has begun, He will complete,

its the work of my life put to death, raised in the Writer’s seat,

with new vision, new purpose, and new ability in myself

its a new creation that He communicates through Himself,

and i am seen afresh, wholly, holy, the very poema of the Creator,

its the very paradox that He called me friend when i kissed him as a traitor.

my life is the very work of a Potter, molding and shaping an image like I AM

out of the dust and breath of my life,

the bloodstained and beautiful picture of the Lamb

seen in me, His portrait, a reflection of None Greater than i can conceive,

Helpful Hint: read out loud!

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its a splash of vibrant colors reforming purity in my heart and mind, i believe,

once again, another chance from the One

whose painting is sealed upon my heart

as a seal upon my arm, an illustration for all to see real and true art.

He fills every broken cistern of my life, every place in me that leaks,

He completes my lack and brings me into fullness and speaks

what is true, noble, just and pure

what is lovely, excellent, admirable, and mature

into everything that He is redeeming and has redeemed,

its a replica with my life of what He created me to be, what He dreamed,

my shaping, molding and creation is the very dream of God

and my life is His artwork, a masterpiece in work seen as flawed

yet my scars and pain have only added

to the beauty of this man alive in my figure

and my life is not a still life, its a moving life, created and configured

by One who has purposed and predestined me for love and holiness in One

and every up and down only adds to the sculpture, the hand spun

glory of God intertwined in the mess of humanity, the Messiah and Christ,

the Only Beautiful Image that makes this portrait of eternal price.

my life is the overflow of Eternity Himself, a collaboration of Divine deed

finished in wholeness, completed in holiness, implanted with Gospel seeds

flourishing and thriving with fruit and offspring of the Ghost inside

that lives and releases, that binds and looses, He dwells within, abides,

from the inside out this work called “me” is seen and admired

not for what i have done because that only led to the pit, the mire,

but for what He has done and what He is doing now,

His salvation at work in my life, the Master of masterpieces revealing His vow

a new covenant, a new testament, a restoring of order as He had guaranteed

and the revelation is seen in me, a broken vessel holding hands with He who bleeds

love and life eternal into our souls, the very depth and center of this piece,

a crafting and knowledge of true art from the Only God of peace.

“For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,

which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Ephesians 2:10 (NKJV)

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my life is the flood of creativity that only a Creator can start and accomplish

it is the very brimming over of an Architect whose designs are always finished

in love, the very completion of art itself

in the blood, the very consummation of myself.

my composition is written before the Only Wise King,

my arrangement is processed forth by the song He sings,

with swirls of melodies and highlights of harmonies flowing in one beautiful rhythm,

a sounding of affection undeserved and unearned breaking every ism

that had taken hold of my heartbeat, the very metronome Heaven placed within,

and restoring my timing with the resonance of the One who overcame sin,

its the sound of death’s defeat and the victory shout of Life in my own

its the reverberations of the Lamb of God, the Only One to atone

the Only One who could pay fully the price of restoring my broken and sinful state

the Only One who could actually break through with love to my self hate,

my life is a piece of His work, restored and beautiful, resounding with true vibrations

my life is an illustration of love, complete in the ageless foundation

of the certain and sure Son of God, the One whose started the artwork of my life

and seen every bit of dirt and disgusting addition that i’ve combined in strife

and then as if He knew it all along, turned me around and wiped me completely clean

redeemed my image and called me son, a heir with the only real vaccine.

the only Way, Truth and Life, His mixture of blood and water color,

in me, the painting, melody and sculpture only seen fuller

in the One composing and recreating with new materials and a new medium,

its bloody and messy, like spitting in the dirt for muddy healing, a new premium

a new way and the only Way, My Father is the artist, and i am his creation

my life is His poema, His redeemed and beautiful formation.

let the world see the glory, the beauty of His creativity,

His picture and image, in you and me.

Find more through our CCF Church App http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Reflect

“Father, thank you for making me in Your image,

for calling me Your poem,

for painting me as Your masterpiece,

and for redeeming me as Your beautiful artwork.

Create in me a clean heart and a renewed mind

that sees the way You see,

that speaks the way You speak,

and that lives the way You live.

Empower me with Your creative love,

to display Your wonder working power through my life.

May my life be a song of praise to the Great Chorus Leader.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

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Respond

“We were promised sufferings. They were part of the program. We were even told,

'Blessed are they that mourn,' and I accept it. I've got nothing that I hadn't bargained for.

Of course it is different when the thing happens to oneself, not to others,

and in reality, not imagination.” - C.S. Lewis

Read

Depths of Despair

By: Elizabeth Campbell

Elizabeth was inspired after reading through many of the Psalms of Lament in

Scripture. She painted this piece of art in hopes of revealing the fact that in the

midst of despair, pain and suffering, the comfort and peace of God is most

certainly present. Depths of Despair is a painting that reveals the truth of God

and the creativity of the Creator in a way that meets

people in the real and raw places in life.

Elizabeth’s prayer is that you would know that God

is with you, for you and present in the midst of your

pain.

Day 2 - Artwork

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View Elizabeth Campbell’s Artwork through our

CCF App. http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Reflect

“Father, thank you that you have not forsaken me.

Thank you that you have never left me.

Thank you that in the midst of my suffering and

difficulty, you are present and know how I feel.

Thank you that you endured suffering and pain

for me to experience wholeness and hope.

Fill me with the creativity to reveal this in my own life and to the lives around me.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

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Respond

Day 3 - Music

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Verse 1: You, You hold my head up high

Defying all the odds against me

And You are the reason for the tide

To draw me back into Your arms

Bridge: How amazing is Your love?

How amazing is Your love?

It takes my breath away (repeat)

Heaven is falling down on me

It's Your love, Your endless love

Well I feel like (repeat)

Chorus:

Radiant beams from above fall on me

The love You give, unconditional

It saves me… from myself

How wonderful

Verse 2: You see the depths of my soul

And You placed every freckle on my skin

I've never felt a love like this before

My heart longs to meet Yours at the door

Radiant Love

By: Carley Winter

Read

Carley wrote this song when she was 18. She was at winter camp with her church

and she went on a walk early in the morning and started to hear from Jesus.

The song was just a reflection of His Unconditional love for us. At that time in her

life, He was speaking what she desperately needed to hear.

For Carley, song is one of the ways in which God speaks the most clearly and

well-timed. She says, “A lot of the time, I won't even know I needed to hear

something until it comes to me in a song. It's quite odd. I'll be playing and all of

a sudden I think “Wait a minute. THIS is for me isn't it God?” This doesn't always

happen as I write about a lot of different topics but “Radiant Love” was at what I

believe to be a pivotal moment in my life and in my writing.

Carley’s hope is that this song blesses anyone who listens to it. She prays it

reminds you that in your imperfections & mistakes, God sees the beauty in YOU.

Reflect

“Father, thank You for defying all of the odds,

for coming for me, for drawing me into Your arms.

You never fail and I cling to the truth of Your love for me today.

Lord, help me to see Your radiant love in me and those around me.

Give me the creative strength to choose Your love

and hear Your voice in new ways this year.

Holy Spirit, I want to hear You; open my ears. I want to see You; open my eyes.

I want to feel You; open me. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

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Listen to the author, Carley Winter, sing this song through our CCF App.

http://get.theapp.co/ae30

Respond

Read

Robin felt led to write this poem when

she was reading Mark 7. In this chapter,

the disciples were being criticized for

their lack of participation in the tradition

of ritually washing one’s hands before

eating. The Pharisee’s interrogation put

into question not merely the single act of

eating with “defiled hands” but also the

way the disciples lived their lives. She

imagined how in that moment, the

disciples might have justified their

defiled hands by considering the

miraculous things their hands had just

done. Yet, Jesus’ response was not

interested in the work of anyone’s

hands. Jesus directs their focus to the

source f rom which def i lement

derives– their heart. Robin wrote this

poem in response to that reality – that a

life after God is a heart surrendered to

Him. It is not our works, but because of

His love and His work of sacrifice, that

we participate in sacrificially clean plans.

Day 4 - Poetry

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Ritually Unclean Hands

By: Robin Rhine

The religious leaders in their self-righteousness & pride

Looked at Jesus’ disciples and deeply sighed

Such fools they saw

With no regard to the law

They asked why they had not participated

In the washing they had anticipated

For any who choose to dine

Without washing they are the same as swine

Ritually unclean hands

Hands once covered in the slime of fish

Definitely not worthy to dip in the dish

Hands that stole and dealt for selfish gain

That picked the heads of Sabbath grain

Ritually unclean hands

Hands that fought the winds of a raging storm

Hands that made healing a consistent norm

Hands that gave thousands a meal to eat

Hands that wiped tears and perfume off of Jesus’ feet

Ritually unclean hands

Hands of the earth or hands of the law

It’s hands of the Kingdom that Jesus saw

But it was not hands that Jesus was after

The Pharisees heard this quite soon after

It is the inside that determines one’s purity

A life surrendered walks towards this maturity

Sacrificially clean plans

Cleansed by His sacrifice and led by His spirit

The greatest gift for those who’ll listen and hear it

It is from the heart that wellsprings flow

By His blood each stands white as snow

In His presence we are transformed

Receiving love we are strangely warmed

Filled with awe of His laid down life

Undone as His beloved chosen wife

Sacrificially clean plans

His likeness can be our formation

To experience the fullness of our salvation

A life in Him is abundant and free

His glory and love we may come to see

Sacrificially clean plans

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So what is this that the Pharisees said?

That they are better and all others misled?

How often we find our positions as theirs

Concerned with everyone else’s affairs

How might our hearts and hands serve Christ?

If only we’d see how highly we’re priced

Sacrificially clean plans

Worthy of bearing the image of God

Comforted by His staff and His rod

Valued enough to be loved into more

Where God’s glory is the only door

We enter in and receive His rest

Knowing the hands of His disciples are truly blessed

Sacrificially clean plans.

Respond

Reflect “Lord, thank you that You are concerned with the condition of our heart. Thank

you that You reach into the depths of our being, where defiled character resides,

and bring hope and light. Let us be dependent on You, as our source of identity,

purpose, and fulfillment. Help us to take hold of the work of Your sacrifice that

we may be transformed and walk in Your plans. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Find more through our CCF Church App http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Read

Transformed

By: Deborah Day & Inger Robertson

Early this year I was asked to do a painting for Rachel’s House of Healing in San

Bernardino. Some months went by and the topic came up again while I was out there for

an art session. My reluctance was backed with all kinds of valid reasons why I did not

have the time for such a project and I skirted the subject to make a real commitment. In

that same day a conversation arose about finances and it came to my attention that

money was so tight at RH, that buying food and paying utilities was an issue; not to

mention that cutbacks to the outreach ministry were at hand. I left there mad and let God

know about it. I told Him that it was nothing for Him to meet the needs of this ministry

and that He better do it! Girls were being helped and that was important.

God met me in that moment of angry frustration; His presence was poignantly real. In an

open vision I got a picture of a Tupperware container with the corner peeled back. Inside

was filled with soldier cupcakes; feet together and hands stiffly at their sides. I felt God

say to me, “These are my hands and feet in this world. This is the Church.” Then he

picked one up and it was me. He addressed my attitudes of self-sufficiency and

not- wanting- to- get- too- involved, like doing the painting. There’s nothing like an

arrow of conviction wrapped in grace…Then the picture in my mind scrolled back and I

saw stacks and stacks and rows and rows of these Tupperware containers all doing

nothing.

Then I heard God ask me a question. He said, “Do you think the story of Jonah is a

myth?” This, I felt was a loaded question so with trepidation I replied, “No.” That was

followed by another question, “Do you know why Jonah was swallowed by a whale?” I

knew now this was leading up to a teaching moment and again I replied, “No.” I got a

glimpse of God’s sense of humor when he answered, “Because he was out on the

water.” However, before I had a chance to laugh he continued, “I could make a whale on

dry land.”

Day 5 - Artwork

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With visions of being submerged in whale

slime or maybe worse, my attention now

was keenly focused on the point that God

was asking me to do something. I knew

Jonah’s story and I wanted to bypass any

undue suffering so I said, “Yes, I’ll do it!”

even though I didn’t know exactly what

God wanted from me. It was at that point

that I got the picture download and

inspiration for “Transformed.” I felt like

God was saying that he has called His

Church, people like me, even me, to be the hands and feet of Jesus to the world, and

when we respond to His call, He will transform not only those served but the servers as

well, and that is His intention for meeting the needs at Rachel’s House and places like it.

The painting is in layers. The under painting was a collaboration with a gal who worked

through her recovery through art. It expresses the pain of being apart from God and being

victimized. The middle layer is Jesus who covers all “that stuff”. The top layer is butterflies

- taking flight after their transformation. The painting is big so the girls at Rachel’s House

have room to write their name on Jesus’ hands. It will be an ongoing piece…

We pray that as you spend time in prayer today, reflecting on this painting and God’s

redemptive love, that creativity would usher forth new ways of life.

Keep pressing on into the Heart of the Artist.

Reflect

“Lord, thank you for your creative transformation and loving, redemptive actions in my life

and world. Holy Spirit, help me to understand myself as your beautiful

masterpiece of redemption. Help me to see others as your marvelous artwork.

Empower me to paint transformation with my life and to trust in the processes and plans

of Your heart and will. Lord, I commit myself to Your creative love

today, and always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.” 20

View Deborah Day’s Artwork through our CCF App. http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

21

Respond

22

Respond

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Day 6 - Music

Read

Meg recorded “Letting Go” because the song speaks truly of how the Lord has taken her

through the different seasons, changes, and storms. In the midst of her fear, weariness,

and overwhelming feelings, her eyes slip away from the gaze upon Jesus’ eyes, and she

feels like she is about to crash under the weight of it all. However, in the midst of these

crashing waves the Lord is faithful to call to her, helping her eyes find His gaze again,

and He renews her perspective with His perspective. She knows that when she is with

God, she can see the waves around her for what they truly are: small and fun!

Her heart in sharing this song is that it would be an empowering and encouraging

reminder of God to all who listen. That in the midst of fear, anxiety, and the

overwhelming aspects of life, we can let go and allow God to embrace us in His

presence; that we can ride the waves around us and take joy in the midst of the

circumstances of life.

Verse 1:

You've brought me to the end of myself

And this has been the longest road

Just when my hallelujah was tired

You gave me a new song

Chorus:

I'm letting go, I'm letting go

I'm letting go, [and] falling into You

Verse 2:

I confess I still get scared sometimes

[but] perfect love comes rushing in

[and] all the lies that screamed inside go

silent… The moment You begin

Bridge: You remind me of things forgotten

You unwind me until I'm totally undone

And with Your arms around me

Fear was no match for Your love

And now You've won me

Letting Go

By: Stephanie Gretzinger and Bethel Music

Covered by: Meg Van Dran

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Listen to Meg Van Dran sing this song through our CCF App.

http://get.theapp.co/ae30

Respond

Reflect “Lord, today I let go of all my worries, fears, anxieties, doubts, burdens, and stress.

I lay it all at Your feet and place myself, once again, into Your capable hands.

Help me to see Your eyes, to see the way You see,

to be captured in Your loving gaze and to never lose this vision.

Father, I run once again into Your arms and say “Yes” to You and to Your love.

I am truly letting go and give my life over to the freedom

that comes in surrender to Your will and way. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

25

Day 7 - Creative Writing

“But when He saw the multitudes, He was moved with compassion for them,

because they were weary and scattered, like sheep having no shepherd. Then He

said to His disciples, “The harvest is truly plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore

pray the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into His harvest.” - Matthew 9:36-38

Read

This is a story inspired by what happens at Aaron’s job daily, and it is an

interaction he had with one of the residents.

Aaron prays that you are inspired by the story to love others even when it is

challenging and even when no one else around them is choosing love. He prays

that you will understand that it is simple: show kindness. His prayer is that you

allow God to send you out into the harvest. Aaron prays you acknowledge that

God's love is great towards all people, all of the time. The heart He has toward

the woman in this story is the same heart that God has towards all.

The Forgotten Ones

By: Aaron LaBare

Adam walked through the doors of the elderly folk’s home he worked at on a sunny

afternoon. He had been at his job only a couple months but could already see the

brokenness around him. It wasn’t too hard to miss. Disease was ravaging the lives of

the inhabitants that occupied this facility. People who were once regular citizens of

society have now had their lives uprooted and have been placed in an unfamiliar

setting with people they don’t know because they can no longer take care of

themselves. This was a perfect place for Jesus to do something radical. After all, It

was Him who told Adam one night while he was driving home, “Son, I need you to

love my people.”

26

Adam usually started his day at the facility by greeting everyone he saw. He was

amazed, when he first started greeting them, at how simple a “Hello” can be so

warming and loving to these precious people. Each “Hello” he gave was followed by

a greeting back and a big smile. Some of the residents there even expressed how

glad they were to see him. They remembered his interactions with them. A couple

even remembered he had hurt his arm and asked how it was doing. “How could

anyone not want to be around these precious people?” he thought to himself. It was

an easy answer, especially for him. Years ago, Adam had a grandma who had a

stroke before she passed away. Like these residents, she could no longer take care

of herself and had to be put into a facility. Adam remembered the uncomfortable

feeling of being around his grandma because, well, she wasn’t the same person. He

also remembers the guilt of wanting to be around her, but finding it hard to be. All he

wanted to do was hold onto his comfortable life and stay away from the pain and

brokenness.

Only a couple of the residents had family come regularly. As for the rest of them,

visitation from loved ones was sparse. For some, they rarely had anyone visit them.

As Adam was going around greeting everyone, he came across a resident he was

very familiar with. Adam met Miss Jean the first day he started working with the

residents. She was not hard to miss though. She was possibly the most boisterous

out of all of the people there, and definitely the most opinionated. Her first words to

Adam were, “What is that on your face?” “A beard” Adam replied. “You need to get

that off your face, it makes you look old,” was Miss Jean’s reply. Adam smiled and

liked her from that day on. Her escapades were known throughout the facility; so

much so that people were intimidated by her. She once heckled a mandolin player

who came to visit the residents and played for them. The mandolin player got so

frustrated that he told her, in polite words, that he wanted her to keep quiet. Her

response was, “It’s not my fault all you’re doing is playing noise.”

Adam and Miss Jean grew to be close friends. The friendship started when Adam

was walking by her room one night while everyone was in bed sleeping. Miss Jean

seemed to be crying. One of the employees walked in just before Adam and told

Miss Jean to behave herself and stop crying.

27

Adam seemed perplexed as to why anyone would think that crying was cause to

be corrected for “misbehaving.” After the other employee left, Adam walked in and

knelt down close to Miss Jean. “Are you feeling sad?” he asked. “Yeah,” Miss

Jean responded. “You miss your family and friends, don’t you Miss Jean?” “Yeah,

and it makes me cry,” Miss Jean responded. Adam then pulled up an extra chair

and told Miss Jean about how his family lives in another city and he misses them

sometimes too. He talked to her and asked her questions about her life and the

people she loved. After a little while, Miss Jean stopped crying and the tears turned

to joy.

That became a regular thing between Adam and Miss Jean. Miss Jean seemed to

light up every time she saw Adam and she wanted to make sure that he scheduled

their time together in his list of things to do that day. This was a big change from

when their professional relationship began. It merely consisted of Miss Jean giving

orders and Adam following them. At the end of one night, after Adam and Miss

Jean had their talk time, Miss Jean told Adam goodbye and then followed with the

words, “I am so glad you are here. I prayed to God to stop the pain and I believe

He sent me you as a blessing.”

Adam was blown away by this kind woman’s words. It was amazing to him that he

never saw a bossy woman who was harsh and opinionated, but a woman in need

of kindness. It was amazing to Adam how simple it was: No one is treated how

they deserve in God’s kingdom. They are treated according to the kindness and

love of Jesus.

Reflect “Lord, You are good. Thank you for loving me

even in the midst of me feeling unlovable.

Thank you for dying for me while I was still in my sin.

You love with a relentless, jealous, and unconditional love.

Empower me today and always to walk in this love for You,

for others, and for myself.

Equip me to love creatively in all places, with all people,

and in every way. I give myself over to Your love.

Have Your way, In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

28

Respond

Read

Darkness into Light

By: Micah Webber

Micah is one of our amazing and talented middle school students at CCF. She is

a prophetic artist who sees and hears from God and has been given the creative

ability to allow God to speak through her in the art that she draws and paints. She

drew Darkness into Light in the hopes of communicating a message of hope in

the midst of darkness and a

reality of the movement in

Christ: from darkness and

into marvelous light. This

picture has a girl who is

being pulled between the

realms of darkness and light

as well. The artwork displays

that she is in the reality of

the light, and that her

actions and choices are

moving her deeper into the

light.

Micah’s prayer is that you would experience this movement in your own life and

choices; that God’s love would illuminate your life and bring you out of places

and actions of darkness, into His amazing love and light.

29

Day 8 - Artwork

Reflect “Jesus, you are the One who pulls us from darkness and into marvelous light.

Thank you that I am Your beloved, that I belong in Your light

and that You have made a way for me to be here, in Your love.

Holy Spirit, empower me to illuminate the people around me

in creative and illuminating love.

Lord, I commit myself to Your creative transformation today.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

30

Respond

View Micah Webber’s Artwork through our CCF App. http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Read One of my most vivid memories of singing in front of people when I was a young girl, was

when I completely chickened out on a song that I had been practicing for weeks. I told my

mom that I couldn't do it, because I was too nervous and afraid. I stood and watched her from

the side as she sang the song in my place, and I cried my eyes out because I knew I had let

my nerves and fear get the best of me. Ever since then, I decided to face my fear of standing

in front of people and use the gift that the Lord had given me.

The first time I sang What Joy in front of our congregation, I messed it up big time. I missed

my cues, sang the wrong words, my voice cracked; it was a mess. That experience brought

me right back to when I chickened out. I had the choice to let myself believe that I was going

to mess up every song I sang from then on, or I could remember that my confidence is found

in the Lord and He asks me to come with a pure heart and make a joyful noise to Him. I chose

the second option and have not regretted it for a second. The words of this song have so much

meaning to me and have really changed my life. I hope it changes yours as well.

31

Day 9 - Music

Verse 1

You made the heavens and the earth

The sea and all that is in it

Your promises remain

You give justice to the weak

You care for the widow and orphan

Forevermore You reign

Chorus

What joy, what joy for those

whose hope is in the name of the Lord

What peace, what peace for those

whose confidence is Him alone

Verse 2

You make the blinded eyes to see

And cherish those who seek Your face

Your faithful love endures

You came to let the slave go free

You cause the sinner to sing praise

In You we are secure

Bridge

Hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah, hallelujah

Hallelujah, forever we will sing

Hallelujah, praises to the King

What Joy

By: Generation Church

Covered by: Katelyn Roth

Reflect

“God help us to always remember that you are the reason we do what we do.

Thank you for accepting us and loving us even when our voices crack

and we mess up the words. We are here to bring you glory in all that we do

and in you alone we find our confidence and joy. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

32

Listen to Katelyn Roth sing this song through our CCF App.

http://get.theapp.co/ae30

Respond

Read

Jocline wrote this poem after the idea of God's love having limits or conditions

upon it surfaced a few times in her life. When this question has been proposed to

her, the only thoughts that came to her mind were the many agreements we bond

ourselves to both willingly and obliviously. She thought, “What if we bonded

ourselves to God's unconditional love as willingly as we scroll through the agree-

ment just to get to the software we want to use?”

Jocline’s prayer is that God would speak through this poem to reveal a deeper

understanding of his unconditional love to you. That hand in hand, with this new

realization of extravagant love, you too will love extravagantly.

The Agreement

By: Jocline Mixson

33

Day 10 - Poetry

What’s the catch?

There’s always fine print or conditions

Like when the commercials pass

The information goes by so fast

Where are the terms and agreements?

What do I have to scroll through

To get to

LOVE

This agreement is operated by God's Love.

It includes all information, tools and

services available from his heart to you, the

user, conditioned upon your acceptance of

all terms, conditions, policies and notices

stated here:

Let me love you

Can I have your heart?

Accept this risk free contract

I have already set you apart

I cannot afford any enrollment fees

And what if there are damages?

This heart is covered in bandages

How could this offer apply to me?

It’s so simple

100 percent free

The price has been paid

All conditions lay upon Calvary.

Reflect “God, set a fire within me that sparks a nation.

Give me the courage to love so fiercely that it can change the world,

a love that accepts the agreement you so passionately desire to share with us.

Lord, strengthen me to choose Your love, to live out Your love,

and to simply agree with Your love, for me and for all.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

34

Respond

Find more through our CCF Church App http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Read

Unqualified. We are constantly receiving messages that we can’t do it, we are not

enough and that we don’t matter. These are the messages we hear in isolation and

darkness. Afraid of failure, we go to great lengths to invest in our strengths and

avoid the things we’re bad at. God has a funny way of taking the world’s standards

and turning them upside down. From a young age I have battled with fear,

depression and anxiety. Amid these feelings I also have visions and dreams of doing

brave things for God. I hadn’t understood this

dichotomy until more recently, explained

beautifully in 2 Corinthians:

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for

you, for my power is made perfect in

weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more

gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s

power may rest on me. That is why for Christ’s

sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in

hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties.

For when I am weak, then I am strong.”

- 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

When we receive victory in a place of

weakness it produces testimony. It is a witness

to those around us that only by God’s power

could we have received that victory! Today take

the opportunity to share your testimony with

someone else. Whether you have received

victory or are on your way to your victory, your

story will inspire others to face their weakness

and bring them out of isolation. 35

Day 11 - Artwork

Known by God

Artist: Mallory Roth

Reflect

“Thank you God that in my weakness you are proven powerful.

Please help me to trust in you amidst my circumstances.

Help me to be brave. Show me the people who need to hear my story

so that you can unlock and bring freedom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

36

Respond

View Mallory Roth’s Artwork through our CCF App. http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Read

In the midst of life, there are moments, days, months, even years, when we need

restoration, motivation, and inspiration. In these seasons the consistency of

God’s love is the promise of all these desires. Restoration is God’s love

language. Motivation is God’s love language. Inspiration, yep you guessed it, it’s

God’s love language. Jocline selected “Come to the River” because in stepping

into this place of worship, being called to the heart of God and allowing His love

to wash over, it is the reality of what we are called to in the midst of every

season: to simply come to the Lord. The beauty of this call is that it is unique

and beautiful in whatever way Holy Spirit is personally calling you to abide in Him

as He abides in you. Take some time as you listen to this song to reflect on

some creative ways in which you can come to the river.

37

Day 12 - Music

Verse

Come to the water

All who are thirsty

Come and drink

Come to the table

All who are hungry

Come and feast

Those who are weary

Those who are needy

Come recieve

Chorus

Come to the River

Come to the River

Taste and see

Bridge

Oh, Oh my soul

Thirsts for You, You Alone

Refrain

I will taste and see that You are good

Good to me

Come to the River

By: Housefires Music

Covered by: Jocline Mixson

38

Listen to Jocline Mixson sing this song through our CCF App.

http://get.theapp.co/ae30

Respond

Reflect “Heavenly Father, I pray for a deeper understanding of your love.

Holy Spirit, You are welcome here, fill my heart with Your love

and compassion for Your people. Meet me in my weariness.

I pray for restoration and a renewal of mind, body, and spirit.

You are so good God, and Your love is far greater than

my circumstance. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Read Jon is one of the ROOtED leaders and young adults here at CCF. He is a fiery man of God, a

prophetic poet and voice, and always has some joy to share with those he meets. He is a

creative son of the Most High King and has written this piece with a prayer over CCF.

Surreal or Reality

Poet: Jonathan Rudd

The world is dark,

Lights flashing, sirens wailing and the rain is steadily falling,

Things seem amiss, chaotic,

But I perceive a tremor in the distance,

All around me yet it’s just outside of sight,

From my chest proceeds a flood that subdues the sounds of night,

I lay myself down and allow the streams to wash over me,

A man submerged and drowning looking through a lens of living water,

I see the love for sons and daughters,

A love more abundant than the air we breathe,

I cease to breathe and begin to dream...

A beautiful and strong tree on streams edge,

Hills clothed in green grass rises and falls as far as my eyes can see,

I rest by the water in the shade watching light glint & glitter off the stones of the streams bed,

Peace fills my soul yet passion burns brighter than coals,

Eyes closed on my back listening to the music of my surroundings,

Wind rustling, streams humming, leaves scratching and grass swaying,

I lose myself in the song creation sings,

I perceive the theme boldly proclaiming Savior,

I catch hint of melodies giving homage to Creator,

I encounter tones that teach of the Spirit,

I hear it,

It moves through me, speaks to me and becomes me, washes over me & flows from me,

A song that heralds His coming and my becoming something greater than self,

It’s more important than health, of more worth than all wealth, 39

Day 13 - Poetry

40

It’s a newness of life, a taste reminiscent of light, So hard to describe,

A life seen through love’s eyes,

Now flyer than skies, now higher than heights, now brighter than bright,

A more wondrous sight than eyes are capable of digesting,

All this felt by resting simply and honestly in the waters of Your love,

I wake up...

Knowing my dreams are more real than my waking, my newness of self is all of Your making,

I’m ready again and I’ll begin with Thank You.

Reflect “Lord, I ask that through this poem You would unlock creativity in the hearts of the

readers. That You would stir up inside of my brothers and sisters a desire and ability to

express their hearts artistically. That they would use their creativity to communicate with

You, with themselves, and with the world around them. I ask that chains would be broken

and the plans of the enemy bound. In Your presence all things are made new including

us. God I declare that we, Your sons and daughters, are new creations; born again by the

blood of Jesus that was shed for our sake. Let us walk in the newness of life that You

have given us, not burdened by our past or our sins. But in the complete freedom that is

only found in you. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Respond

Read

Sometimes creativity is something that is reformative. It is a shift from the

Creator to the one creating, and then to those seeing the creativity. In life there

are plenty of options, and this art piece displays a choice the artist made to be

reformative, intentional, and meaningful in her creativity. Abbie has opted to

present her “Jesse Tree” for this collection.

A Jesse Tree is a creative display that is filled with purpose in every aspect. It is

used in a place of a normal Christmas

Tree in the sense that it is partnered

with Advent readings and matching

ornaments that symbolize stories

from the Old Testament leading up to

Christ’s birth. Each ornament depicts

a various promise leading up to the

ultimate promise and fulfillment of

promises in Jesus. It is reformative,

intentional, and gives purpose to

something that is usually done just

because “that’s how it’s always been!”

Abbie’s prayer is that all who view this

photo would be inspired to create

things that shift and reform aspects

of life with intentional, purposeful,

and life-giving art.

41

Day 14 - Artwork

Jesse Tree

Artist: Abbie Shepherd Beyenberg

Reflect

“Father, thank you that You call us to be world changers.

Thank you that Your heart is for us to change in ways that are creative,

intentional, and purposeful. Empower me to see the ways in which You are

calling me to change: to change myself, to change my actions, my words,

my attitude, and my life. Lord, give me courage to not only change myself,

but to speak up through creative ways to help shift atmospheres in this world.

God, may my life be a piece of artwork that inspires change.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

42

Respond

View Abbie Shepherd Beyenberg’s Artwork through our CCF App. http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Read

In 2011, during a prayer and worship night at a house church in San Diego, I found

myself playing guitar and singing with Jordyn Osburn and Bryan Mielke. They were

singing a song that lead into a spontaneous and prophetic song that burst forth in all

of our hearts. I started singing, “Worthy is the Lamb” and we stayed in that place of

shouting this praise for the next thirty minutes. It was life changing: the reality that we

could stay in that one place of praising the worthy Lamb for half an hour without any

problem at all. I then wrote the following lyrics for the rest of the song and wanted

this to be a proclamation of all declaring the worth of the Lamb that was slain for all.

Worthy is the Lamb

By: Cameron Beyenberg

All of my redeemed heart will sing

All of my love songs will ring

All of my life will be an offering

Everyday and every night

Purely from truth and not from hype

All of my soul will sing this song

Only You deserve my heart

Only You deserve my love

Worthy is the Lamb

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain

Worthy is the Lamb

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain

All of the angels sing this song

All of the elders will bow down

All of heaven never stops

43

Day 15 - Music

All of creation shouts this praise

Every voice and life will say

With every breath we proclaim

Only You deserve my heart

Only You deserve my love

Worthy is the Lamb

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain

Worthy is the Lamb

Worthy is the Lamb that was slain

Reflect

“I pray that these lyrics would awaken the soul praise that is waiting to burst forth in

your voice and your life in the unique & wonderful ways you have been created to

sing. May the worthy Lamb that was slain receive His reward. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

44

Respond

Read God speaks to all of us all the time. Not always in the manner we expect Him to-

but nonetheless He speaks. Please pray the prayer. Read through the poem and

then take time to sit and listen. Write down what you hear God speaking to you

and over you. Take some time during the week to share with someone the things

you wrote down and to continue to step into God’s heart as the Artist of Your life.

From Me to You

By: Jonathan Rudd

Beloved son [daughter], jewel of my eyes,

Your Worth could never be described

Plans you make may go array,

But my thoughts of you multiply

Like starry skies I sit and gaze

At you and smile upon your face,

I’ll love you for each and all of your days.

Yet in a daze you wander, at you I wonder, how you forget the words I speak,

Every good work, and plan I began, in you shall become complete.

I know what you seek,

But search no longer,

I have plans to make you stronger,

And trusting in me can’t go wrong-or

Flee from me, you can’t ever escape,

With open arms I shall wait,

Sitting at the city gates.

45

Day 16 - Poetry

Until you return home my son [daughter],

Then I’ll restart what I begun,

Working in you until you’re all done,

The world is renewed and I have come,

Don’t be discouraged in you I trust,

To Me it’s never make or bust,

My love is for you and I am enough.

Peace, grace, love, hope, life all to you in much abundance,

May the Lamb receive, the reward of His suffering.

Reflect “God, I ask that you would open my heart, my ears, and my mind to receive the

ways in which You are communicating with me today. Be it through the audible

word, through visions, or any other form of communication. Let me have eyes to

see, ears to hear, and a heart that feels you Lord. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

46

Respond

Read

Sometimes the more we try to be creative the less creative we actually are.

For us, as Children of God, we recognize that in simply being, we are able

to creatively love through a more simplistic approach of living.

We recognize that by being firm in our identity in Christ we already are

creative. We see differently. We live more fully. We are able to love with a

greater capacity.

Today as you listen to Tyler’s song and worship with this creative brother,

we pray that you are able to simply be; that you are able to stop trying to

earn something that has already been given through the life, death,

resurrection and promises of Christ Jesus.

Today, we pray that simplicity would stir you to know the Father’s creative

intentions in your lives more.

47

Day 17 - Music

Listen to Tyler Roth sing today’s song through our CCF App.

http://get.theapp.co/ae30

Reflect

“Father, I receive Your creative design over myself. I break off lies

and receive the truth of who I am in You. I am Your Beloved Child

in whom You take delight. I am Your Co-Heir, seated in heavenly places.

I can see the way You see, live the way You live, and creatively love the

ways You do. Lord, today I simply come and sit at Your feet.

Do as You will, I am here. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

48

Respond

Read

A Devotional Note from Mallory on Life with God

This sketch was inspired by what can happen when we fully partner with God.

God has given all of us the gift of life but those who trust in him get to experience

life at a different level. Believing in God gives life, but trusting in God releases

freedom and life in abundance. Trusting in God and releasing control of our lives

can be the scariest decision.

Like this picture, many of us live within a safe realm of comfortable stability.

There is nothing wrong with it, and

we get by day to day, but deep

within our spirit is a cry for more.

What if we fully trusted him with not

just one thing but everything?

He is waiting to move in our

finances, health problems, family

relationships, jobs and dreams but

we must release them to him. Take

a step today in trusting him.

Write a list of your worries and

concerns. Ask God to help you

release them to him.

49

Day 18 - Atwork

Knowing your Heart Beat

Artist: Mallory Roth

Reflect

“God you know my heart. I release everything to you, my concerns and my

victories. Have your way in my circumstances and help me to trust in you more.

Show me what life can look like when I partner with you completely.

In Jesus Name, Amen.”

50

Respond

View Mallory Roth’s Artwork through our CCF App. http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Read

A Devotional Note and Excerpt from Cameron’s book - “expressions on eARTh, as

it is in heaven”.

My wife, Abbie, and I were on a mini road trip to Santa Barbara to be a

part of the amazing wedding of our friends, Ian and Nikki Lawler.

We were driving alongside the beautiful Pacific Ocean, heading up the 101

freeway and Pacific Coast Highway. During this drive, I saw a car cut us

off (which is always a fun thing), so I immediately started to memorize

license plate info and try to detail the driver, as if all of my crime and

investigation show watching would pay off in my life.

I then noticed that the entire back of the car was covered in a plethora of

bumper stickers that spanned from “Obama” to “Stuff Happens.” In the

midst of the sea of stickers I noticed a message that sunk deeply into me.

It was a simple decal that had the word “eARTh.”

I then realized something so amazing and simple, yet so profound: the

word ART is in the word earth. I couldn’t wait to get home and reflectively

pray through this concept and put words to the creativity bubbling in my

heart.

Needless to say, this piece certainly is one of my favorites and I pray it

blesses you the way it has blessed me in revealing how beautiful we all are

because of our Creator’s creativity found in us all. Amen.

51

Day 19 - Poetry

52

art in the eARTh

Poet: Cameron Beyenberg

i put the “art” in earth

i am the very image of the Creator, Love gave me birth

with blood and dreams, i was sewn together

with goals and gifts designed as treasure

imagined and applied, known and manifest

this is my destiny, the intentions of the Best

this pulses through my veins, pumps from my heart

flows through my thoughts, resounds as classic art

i am the creativity of the One who created creativity

the canvas of the Painter who draws out the skies activity

the Namer of the stars and the calmer of the seas

i am the very picture of a life redeemed and freed

i am the creation, recreated, new and refreshed

this is the work of the Father of Lights, speaking life, and i’m blessed,

the very cooperation of the Oneness creation groaned for

and the very modification of Oneness coming for those He adores

this is the sounds of harmonies and melodies eternal

this is the repeating of the song and dance over us, Paternal

the Father’s heart found in the image of His family

the Son’s work furnished in the beauty of His agony

the Spirit’s leading into the Divine strategy

this is the bigger picture, the vision we would die without

and this portrait, this poem, this sound, declares the route

i am one who reveals the image of the invisible God

the One who claims me even though i am flawed

the One who pulls out the gold of me,

Helpful Hint: read out loud!

53

Reflect “Father, I trust Your artistry. I am Your masterpiece and I am Your

treasured and most beautiful gallery displayed for all to see.

Empower me to see the way You see, to create the way You create

and to simply be who You have made me to be.

Holy Spirit, have Your way in my life. Create in me a new perspective

that is directly from You. I declare that You are the Painter,

I am Your artwork and my life will display Your creative love.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

TAKES OUT of me to piece together matrimony

marking creation as that which is held together by the Composer

that which is nothing without the artwork being closer

to the One who knows closeness as best as the best

this is the Three in One, the definition of Oneness

the epitome of beauty described in finite words as ‘Majesty’

yet we really know the First Artist cannot be contained by our travesty

our attempt at boxing with words of the flesh

our self-entitlement leading to nothing fresh

so instead I choose to reveal the seeking of my words with the image of my life

given and sustained by the One who is the Way and Truth and Life.

this is the Virtuoso, the Understanding of eternity and the image i appeal

this is the Creator, and i am his artwork, made to reveal

the heart and character of this Artist and Love

He puts the art in the earth, just look through His blood.

54

Respond

Read

This picture was made with the Holy Spirit after having a rough month. Trying to manage

my time with working, college, ministries, an additional training program for work,

financial stress, and maintaining a healthy relationship with Jesus, I thought I was going

to lose it. And I did. I was "falling apart." I got on my face and started to chat with the

Lord. What should I do? Why am I doing what I'm doing? Why does life seem more

stressful than it should be? Then the Lord gave me this picture, a picture of me as a

house. I was beautiful and strong. Then, due to outside weather and use of my home

inside, it started to become worn. The roof and the walls and furniture were showing

signs of "wear and tear." It was very clear that I (the house) was in use but there was no

upkeep happening to maintain its strength, beauty, and foundational integrity. I kept

getting more and more worn down. The Lord reminded me that I am a temple; I am a

place to be filled with the Holy Spirit, a living and breathing place for His presence to

reside. It was not my job to keep the presence there, but to care for the Temple, the

home, as if it were the most precious and holy of

spaces. "Ok," I thought, "I have some work on the roof

and outer walls to handle." The Lord stopped me and I

was redirected to the inside. My priorities were all out

of whack, He wanted me to tend to the foundational

cracks and the internal conditions of my home

(myself). I was so convicted by 1 Corinthians 3:16-

that I am His temple and Holy Spirit lives in me! The

Lord showed me areas of myself that needed care and

that his presence was in me through it all. He gave me

the strategies to better care for myself, which con-

sisted of showing me how much He loves me, and to

treat my body and soul with the same kind of love. It

has not been easy, but the Lord has been faithful to

show me that it is worth it. I want to see myself as the

beautiful strong temple the Lord says I am as the Holy

Spirit dwells in me. 55

Day 20 - Artwork

1 Corinthians 3

Artist: Meg Van Dran

56

Respond

View Meg Van Dran’s Artwork through our CCF App. http://get.theapp.co/ae30 or at facebook.com/ccflive

Reflect

0“Lord would you encounter us and continue to show us exactly how you see us.

Release the revelation of your heart for us, your dwelling places for Holy Spirit.

Give us the tools, wisdom, and understanding to better care for ourselves,

as temples of worship, praise, and thanksgiving. As we partner with you, repair any

cracks or breaks in our foundation of faith, and build us up stronger with your love

and faithfulness. As communities and families, show us how to encourage each other,

how to help one another in caring for our families in this same way. We love you and

are honored that you call us temples and dwelling places for Holy Spirit.

Thank you Jesus, be glorified with our lives! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

Read Today marks the final day of our 21-day fast! We are so proud of you, CCF! You are

amazing to fast our “essentials” to feast on the True Essentials. We pray that this time

has been marked with a powerful increase of God’s creative love in your life. We pray that

this has been a season in which your vision, your knowledge, your creativity, your

dreams, your passions, and your life has been stirred toward the greater things that God

has in store for each of us!

We could not think of a better way to end this devotional than to end with a song of

praise about the goodness of our Father! This is a song by an organic house church band

called “HouseFires Music.” It is a simple yet profound statement, of God’s character and

our identity in Him. To sum it up, God is a Good, Good Father: it is who He is. We are

loved by Him: it is who we are. We pray that as this fast comes to a close, that this will

mark the beginning of increase of God’s creativity in you, in every area of life! God is your

Artist, you are His Masterpiece, & your life is His gallery of displayed art. Amen.

Good Good Father

By: HouseFires Music

Covered by: Cameron Beyenberg

I’ve heard a thousand stories of what they think You’re like

But I’ve heard the tender whisper of love in the dead of night

You tell me that You’re pleased and that I’m never alone

You’re a Good, Good Father

It’s who You are, It’s who You are, It’s who You are,

And I’m loved by You

It’s who I am, It’s who I am, It’s who I am

I’ve seen many searching for answers far and wide

But I know we’re all searching for answers only You provide

Because You know just what we need before we say a word 57

Day 21 - Music

Love so undeniable I can hardly speak

Peace so unexplainable I can hardly think

As You call me deeper still As You call me deeper still

As You call me deeper still Into Love, Love, Love

You are perfect in all of Your ways You are perfect in all of Your ways

You are perfect in all of Your ways to us

Reflect “Lord, I commit myself to You as the Artist. I commit my life to You as Your

Masterpiece. I commit all that I am to display Your work in me. Father, mark me as Your

creative agent of love today and move me forward from this day into the glorious riches

of creative love. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

58

Respond

Listen to Cameron Beyenberg sing this song through our CCF App. http://get.theapp.co/ae30

Celebrate!

59

MY 21 DAY FAST ENDS TODAY!

I read the Fasting Information Booklet

I stayed connected through:

Reading the daily devotional Sunday Services

Facebook.com/ccflive The Church App

Other: ________________________________________________________

Results of my Fast:

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

Other Thoughts

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

60

Appendix

If you have never fasted before, start slowly. The body grows accustomed to

fasting by degrees, and God does not usually ask us to run before we have

begun to walk. Start with a partial fast, or fast one day until supper. The next

time, extend the fast till retiring, breaking it with a light meal or fruit.

When you can manage a one-day fast without feeling faint or famished (not

without feeling hungry!), you will be ready for the call of God to a longer fast. But

the longer the fast, the more certain you need to be that God has called you to it.

Beware of being carried away by carnal enthusiasm. "Keep back thy servant from

presumptuous sins" (Ps. 19:13, KJV) must be your constant prayer. Remember

that asceticism may be as much "of the flesh" as overindulgence; the latter is a

sin of the body, the former of the spirit.

If the fast is to be for some days, there is a temptation as it approaches to

overindulge. It is far better to bend our wills in advance to the battle of

self-discipline; it will ease the conflict later. Finally, it is of supreme importance

to approach this spiritual exercise as a fast of God's choosing.

It may help to ask yourself the following questions:

Am I confident that this desire is God-given? Would He have me undertake a

normal or a partial fast? "Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert" (Mt. 4:1).

Are my motives right? Is there any hidden desire to impress others? "Your Father,

who sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (Mt. 6:4).

What are my spiritual objectives in this fast? Personal consecration? Intercession?

Special burdens? Revival? "I press on toward the goal" (Phil. 3:14).

Are my objectives self-centered? Is my desire for personal blessing balanced by

genuine concern for others? "Each of you should look not only to your own

interests, but also to the interests of others" (Phil. 2:4).

BEFORE YOU FAST...

61

Am I determined above all else to minister to the Lord in this fast? "They were

worshiping the Lord and fasting" (Acts 13:2).

You should expect fasting to be, as it was for your Master, a time of conflict with

the powers of darkness. Satan will often try to take advantage of your physical

condition to launch an attack. Discouragement is one of his weapons. Guard

against it by maintaining a spirit of praise. Read through Ephesians 6 and avail

yourself of the whole armor of God. Make use of the shield of faith to quench all

Satan's flaming darts. In hand-to-hand encounter, use the sword of the Spirit,

and tell Satan, "It is written... " Declare the victory of your great Captain over

every principality and power.

Do not judge the efficacy of your intercessions by what you feel. Often in prayer

and fasting you will find the going harder instead of easier. This is often when

most is happening. This is wrestling. This is heavenly warfare. Your Captain did

not promise a walk-over but a fight, and He gave you the weapons to win. Often

you will not see the results until later, but the promise stands: "Your Father, who

sees what is done in secret, will reward you" (Mt. 6:4)

*Arthur Wallis. Adapted from God's Chosen Fast.

© 1968 Arthur Wallis.

Published by Christian Literature Crusade. Used by permission.

“Prayer, acts of compassion, fasting-these three are one and give life to another.

Fasting is the soul of prayer, compassion is life of fasting. Let no one separate them.”

- St. John Chrysologus, 5th Century believer

62

As you begin your fast, you may hear from concerned loved ones and friends

who urge you to protect your health. And they are right. You should protect your

health. But I assure you, if done properly, fasting will not only prove to be a

spiritual blessing, but physical blessing as well.

By all means, consult your doctor before you begin your fast. But, be aware that

many doctors have not been trained in this area and so their understanding is

limited. Even so, it would be wise to ask your doctor for a physical exam to make

sure you are in good health. You may have a physical problem that would make

fasting unwise or dangerous. Also, if you are under any type of medication, make

sure you talk to your doctor before changing your regiment. Prudence and

caution are in order.

When you are assured that you are in good health, you are ready to begin your

fast.

In spite of the absolute safety and benefits of fasting, there are certain persons

who should NEVER fast without professional supervision. For example:

Persons who are physically too thin or emaciated.

Persons who are prone to anorexia, bulimia, or other behavioral disorders.

Those who suffer weakness or anemia.

Persons who have tumors, bleeding ulcers, cancer, blood diseases, or who

have heart disease.

Those who suffer chronic problems with kidneys, liver, lungs, heart, or other

important organs.

Individuals who take insulin for diabetes, or suffer any other blood sugar

problem such as hyperglycemia.

Women who are pregnant or nursing.

Physical Preparation

When your designated time for fasting is finished, you will begin to eat again. But

how you break your fast is extremely important for your physical and spiritual

well-being.

Begin eating gradually. Do not eat solid foods immediately after your fast.

Suddenly reintroducing solid food to your stomach and digestive tract will likely

have negative, even dangerous, consequences. Try several smaller meals or

snacks each day. If you end your fast gradually, the beneficial physical and

spiritual effects will result in continued good health.

Here are some suggestions to help you end your fast properly:

- Break an extended water fast with fruit such as watermelon.

- While continuing to drink fruit or vegetable juices, add the following:

First day: Add a raw salad.

Second day: Add baked/boiled potato, no butter or seasoning.

Third day: Add a steamed vegetable.

Thereafter: Begin to reintroduce your normal diet.

- Gradually return to regular eating with several small snacks during the first few

days. Start with a little soup and fresh fruit is such as watermelon or

cantaloupe. Advance to a few tablespoons of solid foods such as raw fruits and

vegetables or a raw salad and baked potato.

- Work slowly back into your normal exercise routine.

- Don’t forget to rest during your fast and after.

How to finish your fast in a healthy way

63

64

Other Helpful Tips A dietary routine is vital as well. Dr. Julio C. Ruibal (a nutritionist, pastor and

specialist in fasting and prayer) suggests a daily schedule and list of juices you

may find useful and satisfying.

Modify this schedule & drinks you take to suit your circumstances & tastes.

5 am - 8 am Fruit juices, preferably freshly squeezed or blended and

diluted in 50 percent distilled water if the fruit is acid. Apple, pear, grapefruit,

papaya, watermelon, or other fruit juices are generally preferred. If you cannot

do your own juicing, buy juices without sugar or additives.

10:30 am – noon Fresh vegetable juice made from lettuce, celery, and

carrots in three equal parts.

2:30 pm - 4 pm Herb tea with a drop of honey. Avoid black tea or any tea

with caffeine.

6 pm - 8:30 pm Broth made from boiling potatoes, celery, and carrots with

no salt. After boiling about half an hour, pour the water into a container and

drink it.

Tips on Juice Fasting

Drinking fruit juice will decrease your hunger pains and give you some

natural sugar energy. The taste and lift will motivate and strengthen you to

continue.

The best juices are made from fresh watermelon, lemons, grapes,

apples, cabbage, beets, carrots, celery, or leafy green vegetables. In cold

weather, you may enjoy a warm vegetable broth.

Mix acidic juices (orange & tomato) with water for your stomach's sake.

Avoid caffeinated drinks. And avoid chewing gum or mints if possible.

65

Acknowledgements We would like to extend a special thank you to all those who have contributed to this volume of

creative work and prayed into the creative release of God’s love in CCF and the Kingdom. Here are

our amazing artists:

Aaron LaBare – Aaron is an awesome man of God who is currently a caregiver at an elderly home in

Claremont, Ca. He walks in creative intimacy with God and is consistently speaking life, truth, and

worth into the people around him. His encouragement and prophetic insights are very creative and

they are blessings to CCF and the Kingdom. Aaron’s stories, art, and songs are inspiring and

motivate the Body of Christ to the deeper things of God.

Abigail Shepherd Beyenberg – Abigail (Abbie) is a creative daughter of the Most High King. She is a

current student at Fuller Seminary getting her PhD in Clinical Psychology and a Masters of

Theology. She is creative in drawing, writing, and crafting. She is able to take the deep things of God

and make creative expressions that bring joy and hope to those around her.

Cameron Beyenberg – Cameron is a beloved son of the Most High King, a husband to the most

amazing and beautiful woman in the world, a Pastor at Cucamonga Christian Fellowship, a Fuller

Seminary Theology student, a sports fanatic, a burrito enthusiast, & writes some poetry and music on

the side. We are blessed by his ministry and leadership at CCF.

Carley Winter – Carley is a wonderful artist in the Kingdom. She just recently got married to Joshua

and they are moving in powerful things together! Carley is a musician, singer, writer, and a very caring

daughter of God. She walks in places of great intimacy with Jesus and helps to carry those around

her to those places as well.

Deborah Day – Deborah is one of the house painters and artists at CCF. Her artwork and life point to

fresh and revelatory perspective of Christ’s heart and love for the Bride. She brings forth raw and

genuine words and images to inspire people to know the Artist and to be caught up in His artwork.

Janelle Coleman – Janelle is a great wife, mother, daughter, sister, and beloved of God. She is the

creative genius behind the design, gathering of art, and writing of the devotional. She is always doing

the behind the scenes work, not looking for recognition, and giving Jesus the glory. She is a powerful

example of a life that knows God is making a Masterpiece out of her, and displaying this art in every

way possible. CCF is better because of Janelle.

Jocline Mixson – Jocline is a wonderful young woman of God with a fiery passion to know Jesus and

make Jesus known. She is a part of the Dream Center Leadership program and is looking to raise up

a “House of Love” in which she will bring in many who are in need of housing and love. Jocline walks

in powerful song, writing, and art as a daughter of God. She is a blessing to CCF and the Kingdom.

65

Jon Rudd – Jon is a warrior poet of Christ. He is able to communicate Gospel truths in such

powerful and applicable ways in his words and poetry. Jon’s life and relationships are filled with

creative and joyful demonstrations of the Lord’s creativity and peace. He is a blessed man with a

powerful theme overflowing from his heart.

Katelyn Roth – Katelyn is one of our wonderful worshippers at CCF. She walks in deep intimacy

with Jesus and sings straight to His heart. She is able to shift atmospheres with her voice,

empowering those around her to do the same, declaring life with her songs. She is a gifted

blessing to our community and is just months away from marrying her fiancé, Chris Martinez!

Liz Campbell – Elizabeth (Liz) is an MFT that got her degree from Fuller Theological Seminary. She

is married to Rob and they are currently serving in numerous ministries within CCF. Liz is a gifted

and talented prophetic painter with rich and inspiring vision. She creates with such precision and is

able to communicate the heart of the Artist with creative and clear language. She is a powerful

example of artistry rooted in Christ.

Mallory Roth – Mallory is one of CCF’s powerful artists. She is a genuine writer, painter, poet, and

creative daughter of God. She is married to Tyler and they both carry such depth in worship and

art. Mallory’s paintings and writings shift hearts and provide opportunity for fresh revelation of

Jesus. She is a caring and intentional artist that displays the works of God in her life… and her

hours of selfless work behind the scenes are what made this devotional possible. We are so

blessed to be in community with her.

Meg Van Dran – Meg is a worshipper in Spirit and truth. She walks in authority and prophetic insight

that shifts atmospheres. She sings and chains break. She is talented in painting, drawing, writing,

and music. Her relationships reveal her artistic abilities, not only in these realms but in all areas of

life. She walks in deep places with the Lord and ushers forth inspiration, challenge, and hope to all

who are around her. She is a great blessing to CCF.

Micah Webber – Micah is an awesome Middle School student in Link’d at CCF. She is a wonderful

daughter of the King and walks in boldness and courage. She is a regular prophetic voice at the

Claremont Healing Rooms and is often found drawing prophetic pictures for those who attend.

She carries such inspiration, joy, and love within herself. She is a true example of placing one’s

confidence in Christ and seeing much breakthrough. CCF is better because of Micah’s presence.

Robin Rhine – Pastor Robin is the current Middle School Ministries Director at CCF. She is also an

MDIV student at Azusa Pacific University and will be married this summer to Ryan McDonald! She

is a creative and thoughtful woman of God who ushers forth encouraging and intentional love. She

is able to communicate with expressive language of the Kingdom and empower those who

encounter her to do the same. She is a blessing to CCF and the Kingdom.

Tyler Roth – Tyler is the man. Really. He plays every instrument in the world, sings like an angel,

writes powerful Word-based lyrics, creates from true intimacy with the Father, and is a loving

husband to Mallory, friend, and brother. He is a worshipper that gives Jesus all glory and is able to

bring others into His reality. Tyler is a blessing to CCF and has revealed that in this devotional by

recording, mastering, and producing each song.

A big thank you to all of these and many more!

Cucamonga Christian Fellowship

11376 5th Street, R

ancho Cucamonga

Phone: (909) 9

45.5333

Email: info@ccfliv

e.org

Website: w

ww.ccflive.org

Facebook: www.fa

cebook.com/ccfli

ve

App: http

://get.

theapp.co/ae30

Resources

Jentezen Franklin: T

he Fasting Edge

Jentezen Franklin: http://w

ww.jentezenfranklin

.org/fastin

g/

Elmer Towns: Fastin

g for S

piritual B

reakthrough

Arthur Wallis:

God’s Chosen Fast

Ronnie Floyd: Power o

f Prayer and Fastin

g

Susan Gregory: The Daniel Fast

John Piper: Hunger fo

r God: D

esiring God Through Fastin

g

Daniel Amen: C

hange your B

rain Change your B

ody

Mahesh Chavda: Hidden Power o

f Prayer and Fastin

g