For the week of June 1, 2026

Core Church Los Angeles – 5-Day Devotional Guide
Title: Embracing His Likeness

Day 1: United in Spirit
Scripture Reading: Philippians 2:1-2

Devotional:
True Christian fellowship goes beyond casual acquaintance. Paul calls us to be united in spirit, sharing the same mind and purpose. This unity isn’t about uniformity in personality or preferences, but alignment in our devotion to Christ. In a world increasingly divided by politics, race, and personal agendas, the church must stand as a beacon of genuine love and encouragement.  Unity begins when we prioritize Christ’s mission over our personal preferences and comfort.


Reflection Question: 
Are you contributing to unity or division in your church community?

Prayer:
Today, consider how you can come alongside a fellow believer with affection and compassion.

Day 2: The Consolation of Love
Scripture Readings: 2 Corinthians 1:3-7

Devotional:
The Holy Spirit is our Comforter, and we are called to extend that same consolation to others. The word “consolation” means to come alongside someone in their pain. We live in a fallen world where tragedy strikes without warning, leaving people broken and bitter. Your presence, prayers, and compassion can be instruments of God’s healing love. Don’t underestimate the power of simply being there for someone who’s hurting. You may not have answers for their suffering, but you can point them to the God who never leaves us.


Reflection Questions:
Today, consider if there are any people in your life who are experiencing hardship and ask yourself, “Can I be used by God to offer them genuine comfort?”

Prayer:
Today, take time to pray for opportunities to demonstrate Christ’s love through humble service.

Day 3: Selfless Service
Scripture Readings: Philippians 2:3-4

Devotional:
Selfish ambition has no place in the Christian life. Paul challenges us to regard others as more important than ourselves, looking out for their interests above our own. This radically countercultural attitude reveals whether we’re serving for recognition or serving as unto the Lord.  Jesus said our Father sees what is done in secret and will reward us. Serve today expecting nothing in return from people, but everything from God. True joy comes from obedience, not accolades.


Reflection Question:
How do you respond when your service goes unnoticed or unappreciated? If anger or resentment rises within you, examine your motives.

Prayer:
Today, take time to ask God to reveal areas where we’re serving with wrong motives.

Day 4: The Mind of Christ
Scripture Readings: Philippians 2:5-8

Devotional:
Jesus, though equal with God, emptied Himself and took the form of a servant. This is the attitude we’re called to embrace. He didn’t cling to His divine privileges but willingly humbled Himself to the point of death on a cross. The path to true spiritual transformation requires dying to ourselves. Jesus never asks us to do what He hasn’t already done. When we embrace His likeness over our own preferences, we discover the abundant life He promised. Surrender today what you’ve been holding back.


Reflection Question:
What are you clinging to that prevents you from fully serving Christ? Your reputation? Your comfort? Your rights?

Prayer:
Today, take time to thank God for Jesus’ example of ultimate servanthood. He came with the purpose of fulfilling the Father’s will. Let us have the same mindset and follow the example that Christ has set before us.

Day 5: Becoming a Bond-Servant
Scripture Readings: Romans 1:1; 1 Corinthians 9:19-22

Devotional:
Paul, Peter, James, and Jude all identified themselves as bond-servants of Christ. A bond-servant is someone who chooses slavery by their own free will, motivated by love for their master. Nobody forces us to serve Christ; we do it willingly from hearts transformed by His grace. Paul made himself a slave to all people so that he might win some to Christ. This is our calling: to freely lay down our lives, our time, our resources, and our agendas for the sake of the Gospel. Where has God placed you to serve? Your workplace, neighborhood, or home is your mission field. Embrace your identity as Christ’s willing servant today.


Reflection Question:
If being a Christian means being Christ-like or a little Christ, what specific attitudes or actions from Philippians 2 do you need to embrace more fully to reflect His likeness to those around you?

Prayer:
Today, take time to pray for unity in our church and among believers everywhere. Pray that we would all become bond-servants to one another. And pray for those who are lost, that they would see Christ living inside of us, and be amazed by His love.


I pray you have enjoyed this week’s 5-day devotional. Consider forwarding this to a family member or loved one.   See you next week!! — Pastor Steve Wilburn