The first step toward the presence of God was through a single, distinct entry point — the gate of the outer court. It was the one way in. There were no side doors, no secret paths. Worship began the moment a worshipper chose to enter God’s way rather than their own. That gate foreshadows Jesus. His body became the doorway to God’s presence. There is no other entry point into a relationship with the Father. Jesus is not one of many access points to God; He is the access point.

 

Put It into Practice:  Before personal devotion and entering Church worship, pause and ask: “Is my heart humble? Grateful? Surrendered?” Then choose one trait of God for which to praise Him.

 

Day 1 Exodus 27:9–19

Reflect: Considering the number of people, why do you think God designed one gate rather than multiple ones? How does this text shape your understanding of approaching God with reverence? 

Apply: What are the “side doors” you sometimes try to take instead of entering God’s way, such as self-reliance or performance? What goes through your mind as you prepare to go into worship? 

Pray: Holy God, I praise You for Your perfect and intentional design in all things, big and little. Thank You for making a way for me to come into Your presence, for You are the Lord, the God of glory and strength.

 

Day 2 Psalm 100:1-5

Reflect: What stands out to you about the command to enter His gates with thanksgiving? Why do you think the psalmist prescribes this?  What truths about God in this Psalm stir worship within you?  

Apply: As you come before the Lord, what does your grateful praise sound like?  In what area of life do you need to replace grumbling with gratitude? What three things can you thank God for today?  

Pray: Heavenly Father, I come before You today with a joyful shout, ready to serve You with gladness and to come into Your presence with singing. I enter Your gates with thanksgiving and Your courts with praise!

 

Day 3 John 14:1-6 

Reflect: What comfort does Jesus offer the disciples before declaring, “I am the way”? How do His words impact your heart? How does this text reshape your understanding of worship and salvation? 

Apply: Where might you be tempted to believe there are multiple “paths” to peace or identity outside of Jesus? Why is it significant that Jesus is not a way but the way to the Father?

Pray: Father God, I take comfort that You prepare a place for me in Your heavenly dwelling, and I pray that I never take for granted that You, Jesus, are the way, the truth, and the life, never forgetting that You are the only way to my Father.

 

Day 4 John 10:1-10 

Reflect: What does this passage teach you about Jesus’ leadership, care, and protection? What does Jesus mean by promising “life” in verse 10? What is required for sheep to recognize His voice? 

Apply: What voices compete with the Shepherd’s voice in your daily life (noise, comparison, fear)? What practical step can you take to walk through the “Gate” into the abundant life Jesus offers?

Pray: Thank You, God, for Jesus, my good and true Shepherd. I seek Your guidance and protection. Lord, increase my spiritual listening so that I can tune out all other voices and focus solely on Yours.

 

Day 5 Psalm 135:1-14 

Reflect: Which attributes of God in this Psalm inspire awe or comfort for you? How does remembering God’s past faithfulness strengthen your present faith and encourage worship of Him? 

Apply: How can naming God’s character help you enter worship honestly—even on difficult days? Where do you need to surrender control and trust God’s faithful love this week?

Pray: God, You are my God and I will forever praise You! Your love, grace, mercy, and goodness are limitless. Help me to live as Your child, trusting only in You.