Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost

Approaching God With Humble Hearts

These are the readings for the Nineteenth Sunday after Pentecost.
(This Worship Help aligns with the lectionary readings from Christian Worship 1993 and Christian Worship: Supplement.)

God’s Word for This Week

On page 156, in the front part of Christian Worship, we are given a helpful meditation on how to personally prepare our hearts for the reception of the Lord’s Supper. A similar type of examination is found in today’s Scripture readings. May we take to heart God’s urgent invitation to confess our sins and receive his pardon and forgiveness.

First Lesson – Ezekiel 18:1-4,25-32

Explain the statement, “No one will be condemned for another person’s disobedience.”

For a sinner to put the blame on his parents or others for his troubles is both foolish and unjust. Each of us will stand before the Lord individually, responsible solely for our own sinful acts and the consequences that follow. May the nature of our true contrition be such that we disregard the transgressions of others and see nothing but our own sin and guilt.

Finally, whose fault is it when a man refuses to repent and turn from his sinful ways?

Eternal death and damnation will always be the end result for the man who deliberately chooses to reject God’s urgent invitation for free, full, and final forgiveness. Simply put, he will have no one to blame but himself.

Second Lesson – Philippians 2:1-11

Mention some ways that Christians’ humility displays itself in a congregational setting.

What a blessing to be part of a congregation whose brothers and sisters display love and compassion; show sympathetic interest in the welfare of others; zealously seek to serve God and others rather than be served; work together in harmonious unity; mutually regard others as superior; and defer to the judgment of others in order to advance the kingdom and glorify God!

How did Jesus’ death go far beyond a typical human death experience?

Jesus didn’t die in his sleep. He didn’t die like a typical Roman citizen. No, his death was cruel, cursed, degrading, for it took place on a cross like that of a base criminal. What a remarkable example of humility by no less than the Son of God himself, who of his own free will, gave the ultimate sacrifice for undeserving sinners like you and me!

Supplemental Second Lesson – 2 Corinthians 13:5-8

The Corinthian congregation had heard much from Paul on the topics of repentance and obedience. As they readied to receive Paul on his third visit, he encouraged them to prepare by testing themselves. Which son were they acting like, the son who worked in the vineyard or the one who just talked about it?

Five times in this lesson, Paul uses a form of the word δοκιμάζω, telling them to examine themselves to see whether they were in the faith. True obedience gives evidence of real repentance. It is not the cause of repentance but a visible fruit that shows our faith is genuine. That brings us the great joy of knowing that Christ Jesus is in us, and we are walking on the way of righteousness.

Gospel – Matthew 21:28-32

Which son in the parable most closely resembled the Pharisees of Jesus’ day, the one giving the polite, eager, pious “Yes” or the one responding with a rude, disobedient, unmannerly “No”?

The Pharisees—the religious leaders of Israel—talked like the seemingly obedient son in the parable, but they later rejected John the Baptist and the message of righteousness he preached and, in essence, pronounced their own judgment upon themselves.

The parable illustrated that true faith is a matter of the heart more so than the head or the mouth. Explain.

Having the knowledge of the Law in one’s head and talking about it with the mouth is worthless if one’s heart is far from real obedience to the will of our heavenly Father. When that Word has truly touched the heart, it will display itself in sincere repentance and obedience.

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Out with the old, in with the new – October 2, 2023

Read: Ezekiel 18:1-4, 25-32

Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit.
Ezekiel 18:31

Out with the old, in with the new

Family Devotion – October 2, 2023

Devotion based on Ezekiel 18:31

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Have you ever heard someone say, “Out with the old, in with the new”? Someone might say it when a child grows out of their old, small clothes and needs newer, bigger clothes. Or a person might use the phrase when they are replacing something that is old and broken with something new.

A guy name Ezekiel, who was one of God’s prophets a long time ago, encouraged God’s people with some words that sound a lot like “out with the old, in with the new.” He said, “Rid yourselves of all the offenses you have committed, and get a new heart and a new spirit.”

Ezekiel tells believers—out with the old. Get rid of the sin that is in your life. That is something believers like you and me still struggle with today! We regularly sin—there are times when we are unkind to a friend or family member, we are selfish, we get mad when things don’t go our way, we don’t listen to or obey our parents… and the list could go on and on. No matter how hard we try, we keep sinning, and the guilt and memories of sins that we have committed seem to stick with us.

God does what we can’t. He takes our sin and gets rid of it. It is why God’s Son, Jesus, came to earth—to deal with sin once and for all. He took all the sin in your life and took it away from you. His life, death, and resurrection from the dead was so that you could be certain that God has taken all your sins, all your failures away. They are completely gone!

Out with the old, in with the new. Ezekiel says that God now gives us “a new heart and a new spirit.” This “new heart and new spirit” doesn’t like to sin, but wants to avoid it in our lives. Because God gives us a new heart and new spirit, we will work hard to be kind to those around us, to be patient, to listen to and obey our parents… and the list could go on and on.

Out with the old, in with the new! When you see sin in your life, take it to God and know that he has taken all your sins away (out with the old). Now make every effort to let that new heart and new spirit God has put in you show itself in all you do (in with the new)!

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, I thank you that you have taken all my sins away. Help me now to live a life free from sin. Strengthen me so that my “new heart and new spirit” will show itself in all I say and do. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

  • Can you think of something that you or your family got rid of because it was old and then replaced it with something new?
  • What does God do with our sin?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Why is it so hard to get rid of sin in our life?
  • How does God give us a new heart and a new spirit?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Agree or disagree: If we fight hard enough, it’s possible to get rid of sin completely in our lives. Explain your answer.
  • Think of one thing that seems to hold you back from wanting to live with this new heart and new spirit.

 

 

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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A New Piece of Paper – Week of October 2, 2023

A New Piece of Paper – Week of October 2, 2023



Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore unto me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
Psalm 51:10-12



I read an article once about a well-known children’s book author and illustrator and what inspired him on the path to becoming an illustrator. For him, it was an art teacher who always had another piece of paper when he wanted to start over. While I would imagine that he learned to take what he saw as a mistake and turn it into something to learn from, he also learned the gift of a new start with each piece of paper.

It’s October. The bloom of those first few weeks may be starting to fade. That perfectly set classroom is looking more lived in. That ideal teacher we imagined we’d be as the year began isn’t quite what we see in ourselves every day. As we reflect on each day, it’s not too hard to note a number of things that didn’t go as we’d hoped or planned. “I did this and wish I wouldn’t have.” or “I wanted to do this and failed to do so.” You may be thinking you need a do-over, a fresh start, a new piece of paper.

Sin can leave us feeling ashamed, disappointed, discouraged. We try so hard to commit to not repeating sins and still find ourselves failing. Today’s verses may put into words how you and I feel at those times. “Create in me a pure heart, O God.” What a beautiful plea asking God to work in our sinful hearts and, through Jesus, clean our hearts of those failures and give us a willing heart and spirit. Failure and sin are and always will be part of each day. However, God’s loving grace removes those sins from our picture. Forgiveness is complete and completely ours. God doesn’t cast us away but rather, draws us back through the Holy Spirit’s work in our hearts.

And then what? Joy! Not the joy we get from so many earthly things that are temporary—not at all. This is such joy knowing that we are forgiven, saved through faith in Jesus, recipients of salvation—not at all because we got something right. It’s ours because Jesus got everything right-for us. Remember the story where Jesus heals the man who was unable to walk his whole life? (Luke 5:17-26) First, Jesus forgave his sins. He also told the man to get up and walk. Picture this man walking, hopping, skipping, running down the street with a face that expresses remarkable joy. Walking? What a blessing. Forgiven? Dancing with joy that’s hard to put in words.

So, start each day with that prayer. Ask God to forgive you and to create a new heart of faith every day. Each day is like that new piece of paper. At the end of the day, you can look at that paper and see God’s hand and blessings throughout the day. You can have peace knowing that the sins and failures of the day are gone from your picture in God’s eyes. They are forgiven. We take sin seriously and we take it to God our Father. We respond with a joy that reflects God’s immeasurable love for us and get to share that to all around us.



Prayer:
Dear Father, create in me a pure heart. Restore in me the joy of your salvation. Grant me a willing spirit to sustain me. All through Jesus. Amen

A Hymn to Consider:
For further reflection on the thoughts of today’s devotion

Christian Worship 21 – 942 Create in Me a Clean Heart is a beautiful setting of today’s verses.
See also Lamentations 3:22-23 Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.


Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Which Son Are You? – October 2, 2023

[Jesus said] “There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ “‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. “Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. “Which of the two did what his father wanted?”
Matthew 21:28-31

Which Son Are You?

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Daily Devotion – October 2, 2023

Devotion based on Matthew 21:28-31

See series: Devotions

Jesus told this story to confront his listeners with the ugly truth that they were not as obedient to God as they thought they were. A father asked his sons to work in the vineyard. The first son said no but later changed his mind and went to work. The second son said yes but then never went to work.

Which of them did what his father wanted? The obvious answer is the first son because he eventually did what his father asked. The other son gave the right answer but did not do what he promised.

So, which son are you? Jesus’ story forces you to examine yourself. Do you ever say no to what God tells you to do? Have you ever been quick to say yes to God’s commands, only to continue in your sins as usual?

Jesus wants you to admit that you are like both sons. Neither of them really did what their father wanted them to do. Ideally, both sons would say and do the right thing right away.

That kind of son isn’t in the story. He is telling the story. Jesus is the eternal Son of God who became one of us. This Son always said yes to his Father and always did his will. He lived perfectly as the substitute for all the other sons and daughters. He gave his perfect life on the cross for them as a gift. He did all the work in his Father’s vineyard, and you received all the credit.

Whenever you are confronted with the ugly truth that you are not as obedient to God as you think you are and see the disobedience of both sons in your life, thank God for his perfect Son, Jesus, who takes away all your sin.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for being obedient in my place and punished for my sins. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Transformed – teen devotion – October 1, 2023

One truth shared: Being right with God isn’t about saying the right things and going through the motions. Being right with God is about knowing that Jesus accomplished it all for us. This leads us to respond with love of our own.

“What do you think? There was a man who had two sons. He went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work today in the vineyard.’ ‘I will not,’ he answered, but later he changed his mind and went. Then the father went to the other son and said the same thing. He answered, ‘I will, sir,’ but he did not go. Which of the two did what his father wanted?” “The first,” they answered.
Matthew 21:28-31a

Walk the Walk

“He can talk the talk, but can he walk the walk?”

Words are useless unless they are backed up by action. If you had a boyfriend of girlfriend who told you they love you, that would feel pretty good. However, if they turn around and talk poorly about you to their friends or speak to you in a demeaning manner, they don’t really love you. Words must be backed up by action.

Jesus illustrated this point in a parable. There was a father who told both of his sons to go and do some work in the vineyard. The first son told him he wasn’t going to do it, but on second thought, he went and did the work asked of him. The second son told him that he would do it, but then he never actually went. Which of the sons showed their father that they loved him? Well, it was the first son who showed his love through action. So, which son are you?

We look a lot like the first son. He said “No, father, I won’t go and work as your son.” You and I can probably think of times when we have blatantly said, “No” to our heavenly Father. “No, I’m not going to forgive that person.” “No, I am not going to clean up my language and life.” “No, I’m going to live the way I want to live, and no one is going to tell me otherwise.” But other times, you and I act just as phony as the second son. We say, “Yes” to our heavenly Father, but our words lack action.

Jesus is the perfect Son. He didn’t just say that he loved us. He showed that he loved us through his suffering and death on the cross. He showed that he would go to any means necessary to give us eternal life. There has never been any love greater than this.

Jesus wants us to respond to his love with love of our own. He wants us to love him and love our neighbor.

This doesn’t mean we just say the right words or go through the motions. We show our love through our actions.

We show our love for God by making time to worship him on Sunday mornings and by following his commandments. We show our love for our neighbor by helping them when they are in need and picking them up when they are down.

When it comes to loving God and others, don’t just talk the talk. Walk the walk. Jesus walked the greatest walk ever for you.

Prayer: Jesus, thank you for loving me. Help me to always show my love for you and for my neighbor. Amen.


Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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It’s Not Fair – October 1, 2023

The word of the LORD came to me: “What do you people mean by quoting this proverb about the land of Israel: “‘The parents eat sour grapes, and the children’s teeth are set on edge’?” As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, you will no longer quote this proverb in Israel. For everyone belongs to me, the parent as well as the child—both alike belong to me. The one who sins is the one who will die.”
Ezekiel 18:1-4

It’s Not Fair

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Daily Devotion – October 1, 2023

Devotion based on Ezekiel 18:1-4

See series: Devotions

My children used to complain, “Dad, it’s not fair!” My response was, “You’re right. But then, God never promised that life would be fair.”

In our Bible reading for today, God’s children were complaining things weren’t fair. The gist of their complaint was that their ancestors had done sinful things, and now they were having to bear the consequences. It wasn’t fair. Rather than take responsibility for their own sinful actions and spiritual failures; they blamed their parents, grandparents, and ancestors.

How easy it is in life to slip into similar thinking. “My parents were terrible.” “My spouse totally mistreated me.” “I don’t deserve the treatment I’m getting; I’m better than that.” Then we are tempted to finish those sentences with, “It’s not fair, and it’s not my fault.”

God’s answer is succinct: “Every living soul belongs to me.” Our responsibility isn’t to make excuses about our circumstances in life. Rather, we are to serve God to the best of our ability in the situation into which we have been placed.

God made you exactly who he wanted you to be for your eternal good and the eternal good of others. God guides you through life’s good times and its unfairness so that you learn to rely on him more and more. Sometimes life is not easy or much fun. But through it all, God has claimed you as his own, bought at the price of Jesus’ own blood.

God never promised that life would be fair. Instead, he promised that he would keep on loving us and forgiving us through Jesus. That’s fair enough for me!

Prayer:
God, strengthen me to deal with life’s unfairness. Focus my attention on your love, always reminding me that you have graciously made me to be your own. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Responsibilities – September 30, 2023

What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” It does not, therefore, depend on man’s desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Romans 9:14-16

Responsibilities

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Daily Devotion – September 30, 2023

Devotion based on Romans 9:14-16

See series: Devotions

Those of us who are parents have the awesome task of preparing our children for their future. That future is the fusion of two parts—training for the short time they will be here on earth and training for their future in eternity. That can be a daunting undertaking, involving two totally different approaches to achieving a successful outcome.

For their time here on earth, we teach our children to be self-sufficient and responsible for their actions. We teach them to stand on their own two feet. The goal is to prepare them for life on their own, establishing their own families.

Then there is the training we give them to prepare for eternity. Suddenly we tell them that they can’t be self-sufficient. There is no way that they can prepare themselves to live eternally with God. Not since our first parents—Adam and Eve—sinned. From that time on, none of us could keep God’s commands and earn our way to heaven.

Instead, we totally rely on God and his plan for our salvation. We were unable to find our way to be with him eternally. As much as we may have wanted heaven for our future, we had a fatal flaw; we were sinners and separated from God. So God sent his Son. Jesus’ perfect life, his death in our place, and his resurrection brought us back so that we will be with God eternally in heaven. There is nothing we can do because Jesus has done it all by the mercy of God. Jesus was self-sufficient for us.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I take comfort in knowing that my hope of heaven is completely dependent on you and your mercy. Thank you! Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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God Is More than Fair – September 29, 2023

Read: Matthew 20:1-16

“When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.’

“The workers who were hired about five in the afternoon came and each received a denarius. So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. ‘These who were hired last worked only one hour,’ they said, ‘and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the work and the heat of the day.’

“But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the one who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’”
Matthew 20:8-15

God Is More than Fair

Family Devotion – September 29, 2023

Devotion based on Matthew 20:8-15

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

In Matthew 20, Jesus tells a story about someone who owned a lot of land and needed workers to work in his vineyard where he planted, grew, and harvested grapes. So he hired workers to work in his vineyard. He began by hiring some for a full day at 6 a.m. They agreed to work for a denarius, the usual pay for a day of work. He continued to hire workers. Some at 9 a.m., others at noon, and still others at 3 p.m. The man promised to pay each of these workers what was fair.

When the workday came to an end at 6 p.m., the man paid all the workers. The workers who worked only a part of the day came first and were paid a day’s wage. When the workers who worked the whole day came to be paid, what do you think they expected? They expected to be paid more than those who only worked a few hours. That is what’s fair, right? But they agreed to a day’s wage. And that is what they were given.

These workers grumbled. “We deserve more! We worked longer than they did! This isn’t fair!” They were angry and jealous that the owner gave everyone equal shares.

The landowner explains he is free to be as generous as he wants. He asks, “Are you envious because I am generous?”

It’s a story about the generosity of God, isn’t it? The owner was more than fair and generous when he paid his workers. Our God is more than fair. He is generous with his grace and gifts. We are all equal because we all have sinned and fallen short. God gives his free grace to those who were baptized as babies. He gives his salvation to the person in jail. He gives his forgiveness to an 80-year-old who first comes to faith as he is dying. They all receive the same eternal life. It’s not fair, it’s more than fair. It’s the generous grace that comes through faith in the saving work of Jesus our Savior.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we know that you are more than fair. You are overflowing in your generous love and grace. While we often compare ourselves to others, we know our sins make us no worse or better than anyone else. Help us to be thankful for the grace and forgiveness you give us and to others freely. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

  • Why were the first workers hired at 6 a.m. upset with their pay?
  • If the owner got to decide what he wanted to pay his workers, what is the story telling us about God and how he treats us?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Recall the last time something happened that felt unfair to you. Did you have a right to feel that way?
  • When it comes to who goes to heaven, is God is fair? Is that a good or bad thing? Why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Often people struggle with the fact that God forgives murders who come to faith in prison. Why is it important that he does?
  • If someone accuses God of being unfair, how would you answer them? Why?

 

 

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Cross Before Crown – September 29, 2023

Cross Before Crown – September 29, 2023


Dear friends, do not be surprised by the fiery trial that is happening among you to test you, as if something strange were happening to you. Instead rejoice whenever you are sharing in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
1 Peter 4:12,13 (EHV)




Military Devotion – September 29, 2023

Devotion based on 1 Peter 4:12,13 (EHV)

See series: Military Devotions

A prison chaplain was heard to tell inmates, “When the praises go up, the blessings come down.” To many, “blessings” mean good things happening in life.

It only makes sense to expect that a child of a rich and powerful parent will receive privileged treatment. This is certainly true if the child is greatly loved by the parent.

So, it should not be surprising to learn that some children of the heavenly Father expect to live a privileged life. When it doesn’t look like that is happening, they quickly question if the love of their Father is real. Or maybe, they have done something wrong and are being punished.

This is a common misunderstanding about the love of God for his people and how he cares for them as they live their lives on earth.

The apostle Peter was writing to people who were not experiencing what most would consider a privileged life. Just the opposite! They were undergoing severe suffering simply because they were God’s people.

History tells us of these days under the Roman emperor Nero. He blamed Christians for starting a massive fire that raged for nine days and destroyed 71% of the city of Rome.

There is evidence that he sent his own men to start the fire so that the city could be rebuilt to reflect his glorious image.

This started the first great persecution of Christians and reached all regions of the Roman Empire. Christians were hunted down, imprisoned, and often tortured and executed.

Reports came out that Nero had Christians dipped in tar, tied to posts along the road, and then lit on fire so he could drive his chariot down a lighted road at night.

Talk about fiery trials!

Those people had to wonder why their saving God was allowing this to happen. If he was the almighty One, and if he truly loved them, he surely would not allow something like this. Would he?

By inspiration of the Holy Spirit, the apostle Peter tells them, “Yes!”—and it should not surprise them.

Nor should the trials and troubles in life surprise us. We might say, that’s what we signed up for when we accepted his invitation to follow him. Didn’t he make that clear when he said, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself and take up his cross and follow me.” (Matthew 16:24)?

He did not say, “Pick up your basket of good times and easy life and follow me.” Just the opposite. “Pick up your cross” should tell us what to expect.

Even the most eager military recruiter would not promise a life of ease if a person signed up. There is such a thing as boot camp or basic training. There will be challenges. Both muscles and resolve will be tested. The end result? A better you. A person better able to face and overcome the threats that war will bring.

So it is in the army of Christ.

In fact, it is more than that. When we suffer for being followers of Jesus, as the first readers of Peter’s words did, we are actually sharing in the suffering of Christ.

That puts our trials and troubles in a completely different light. This results in getting something much better than a purple heart. This leads to a level of glory that we cannot even imagine now.

This puts us in the company of the heavenly angels. This enables us to one day bask in the glory of God.

Three disciples had a close encounter with that glory when they saw Jesus change his appearance on the Mount of Transfiguration. It was an awesome sight. Peter said, “Lord, it is good for us to be here” (Matthew 17:4). He wanted to preserve the moment.

Later, John wrote, “We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).

Jesus has promised, “Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Revelation 2:10).

First the cross. Then, the crown!



Prayer:
Lord Jesus, you suffered for our sake, and we praise you for that. You tell us to expect trouble in our life because we belong to you, and we thank you for that warning. Give us power from on high when we are faced with trials so that we might overcome and win the victory. Amen.



Points to ponder:

  • What good can God be doing by having us endure trials in life?
  • Should we expect that our lives may actually be threatened because of our faith?
  • What would we tell the Christian who sees troubles as God’s punishment?


Written by Rev. Paul Ziemer, WELS National Civilian Chaplain and Liaison to the Military, Stillwater, Minnesota.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.


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Begrudging Generosity – September 29, 2023

‘Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’
Matthew 20:15

Begrudging Generosity

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Daily Devotion – September 29, 2023

Devotion based on Matthew 20:15

See series: Devotions

“Don’t look a gift horse in the mouth,” the saying goes. Since you are probably like me and haven’t been gifted a horse recently, maybe this saying doesn’t make a whole lot of sense. However, if you know a little about horses, you may know you can tell their approximate age by their teeth, so “looking a gift horse in the mouth” was a way of checking how valuable a gift it was. Today’s equivalent might be, “Don’t check the price tag to see how much the gift costs.”

It’s hard to do though, isn’t it? We are constantly comparing ourselves to others to see how we match up. We want to know if we have the best or if someone else has more. Even when it comes to someone’s generosity, we want to make sure everything is fair and that someone doesn’t receive more than we do.

While I may be tempted to think I deserve more from the Lord, I need to start with what I deserve. I should be punished, rejected, and separated from God forever. My sin is the reason why God should have turned away from me. God’s love, however, brought about a different response. Through the sacrificial work of Jesus, as well as through the substitution of his righteousness for my unrighteousness, I am saved. If God were fair, none of this would have happened. Instead, God would judge me and sentence me to eternal punishment.

Through his love, the Lord leads me to rejoice in my rescue and the promise of heaven. It also leads me to rejoice that God offers the same rescue and promise of heaven to all people. He wants all to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. This is more than fair. It is grace.

Prayer:
Gracious God, help me to always be content with your gifts. Give me a contentment knowing that you purchased me with your Son’s life. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Enviable Generosity – September 28, 2023

‘Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?’ “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Matthew 20:15,16

Enviable Generosity

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Daily Devotion – September 28, 2023

Devotion based on Matthew 20:15,16

See series: Devotions

Fairness is instilled in us very early on in our lives. Observe small children dividing candy or the last piece of cake, and you will see them exercise precision in a way they never do unless fairness is involved. Emotions run high on the playground when someone cheats, and a group of children walk away crying, “That’s not fair!” Even as adults, the problems that really raise our blood pressure are almost always related to issues of fairness.

So, it would be easy to understand why someone might become frustrated with God’s way of dealing with people. We naturally think he ought to love people as a reward for good behavior. And those who do things like obey his commands and listen to his word ought to be treated better by God. Certainly, those who have done more deserve more—right?

But then we see God forgiving the sins of people who spent most of their lives ignoring him and disobeying what he commands. We can feel it’s unfair, especially after we have spent our lives following him and striving to obey what he commands.

Instead of being envious of God’s generosity to others, we do well to rejoice in it, to celebrate that this is the kind of God we have! One who is this generous to sinners, even sinners like us. When we see God generously forgiving others, we can be thankful he shows that same generosity and goodness to us.

God grant that we celebrate, not envy, his generosity.

Prayer:
Saving Lord, you are merciful to all. Give to me a spirit that is thankful that you have forgiven all sins and promise salvation to all. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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The Real Hero of the Story – September 27, 2023

Read: Romans 9:6-16

For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Romans 9:15,16

The Real Hero of the Story

Family Devotion – September 27, 2023

Devotion based on Romans 9:15-16

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Superhero movies have dominated the box offices for the last few decades. People love heroes and what they can do. They love to see an underdog win the victory. Kids love to put on the capes and masks of their favorite hero and pretend that they are the hero themselves.

What about the story of God’s salvation? Who is the hero? Or to put it another way, why are some saved and others not? Today’s Bible reading tackles that tough question.

The apostle Paul answers that question by going back in history and telling a story. God chose Jacob, the younger brother, instead of Esau to be a key person in the story. What is surprising is that Jacob was not the respectable one of the two brothers. He fooled his father and stole from his brother. Then he ran away.

Years later, Jacob returned home, but he was afraid that Esau would still hold a grudge against him. How shocked he must have been when “Esau ran to meet him and embraced him; threw his arms around his neck and kissed him.” (Genesis 33:4). Esau was the one wronged, but he acted right while Jacob so often was not. Yet Paul reminds us God says, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.”

Wait, what? How could God love Jacob after all of the wrong things he’d done? Isn’t that unfair to Esau? When God says hate and love, he’s telling you something about himself. But why should God be merciful to Jacob? To you? To anyone? God had to choose which brother would play an important part in his story to save the world. God chose Jacob. Not because Jacob was better, but because God wanted it that way.

It’s the story of us. Jacob represents us. God did not choose to love you because somehow you are so much better than everyone else in your family. “It doesn’t depend on your effort, but on God’s mercy.” God despised Jesus on the cross because he wanted to show love to you. And God has had mercy on the whole world through Jesus! While people like to make themselves the hero of the story, Jesus is the hero. Yet the way God gives us salvation is by despising that hero to give us, the underserving, his mercy and forgiveness.

Closing Prayer:

“How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” (1 John 3:1). Thank you for that love and mercy, Lord, that you have given us. I know it’s not because of me, but through the work of Jesus and faith in him. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

  • Why do we like to be the hero?
  • Who is the hero of today’s story?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Who did God despise in order to give us mercy?
  • How do we know who God has mercy on?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • What does it mean when it says, “Jacob I loved, but Esau I hated.”
  • Jacob was not the respectable brother. What does it mean for us that he is the child of the promise?

 

 

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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God’s Mercy – September 27, 2023

What then shall we say? Is God unjust? Not at all! For he says to Moses, “I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.” It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy.
Romans 9:14-16

God’s Mercy

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Daily Devotion – September 27, 2023

Devotion based on Romans 9:14-16

See series: Devotions

We’re all pretty good at excusing our own behavior and judging the behavior of others. For example, we may think it’s reasonable to take a few extra breaks at work; after all, we deserve it. However, we look at the coworker just a few spaces down and think they take too long at lunch and are lazy. Or we might speed a little and break a few traffic laws and think that’s no big deal. However, we are certain the guy who just passed us needs to get pulled over by the police. Or, we are rude or cruel to some of the people around us but are deeply offended when someone is rude or cruel to us.

Simply put, we want our mistakes and sins to be unjustly overlooked, but something should really be done about our neighbors’ mistakes and sins. When it comes to the sins of others, we want justice.

The truth is that all people deserve God’s just punishment for their sin—you and I included. But, thankfully, our God is merciful. His compassion led him to become one of us in the person of Jesus Christ so that he could live the perfect life we didn’t live and die the death we deserved. For his sake and his alone, God has had mercy on us. As the apostle Paul wrote in our Bible reading today, “It does not, therefore, depend on human desire or effort, but on God’s mercy” (Romans 9:16).

Rather than depending on something I have done or not done, God is merciful to me because that is his way. It is simply who he is and what he does, and therefore, I am included in those whom God loves because it is his merciful and compassionate way.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, make me to better know that it is not my will or actions, but your mercy and compassion by which I am saved. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Justice or Something More? – September 26, 2023

When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened. But to Jonah this seemed very wrong, and he became angry.
Jonah 3:10–4:1

Justice or Something More?

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Daily Devotion – September 26, 2023

Devotion based on Jonah 3:10–4:1

See series: Devotions

God is supposed to be a God of justice—right?

It’s no wonder Jonah called God out on the carpet like he did. The people of Nineveh were truly evil. They had made a name for themselves in violence and bloodshed so that much of the ancient world was disturbed and anxious. Even women and children were not spared from their violence.

Wasn’t Jonah right that they deserved to receive at least a portion of the violence from God that they so freely meted out to those less fortunate? That would be justice, after all.

So Jonah was angry when Nineveh repented and was not destroyed.

Yet we see something in Jonah that we see in all our hearts. Jonah didn’t want justice; he wanted destruction. The difference between Jonah and the Ninevites was not that the Ninevites loved violence, and Jonah loved peace. No, Jonah had his own version of violence and destruction, which is why he sat on his hilltop waiting for Nineveh to be destroyed. In fact, it seems that if Jonah had the same army and strength as Nineveh, he might have taken justice into his own hands. The only difference between Jonah and the people of Nineveh was that Jonah didn’t have a powerful army at his disposal.

God gave something better than justice to both the Ninevites and Jonah; he gave mercy. He sent the people of Nineveh a prophet to tell them to repent. God spared Nineveh from the fate they deserved. He caused the great fish to spit Jonah back up on the dry land instead of letting him drown. Even as Jonah sat on the hilltop, God sent a message instead of judgment to Jonah. While we might content ourselves with justice in this situation, God had something more for all involved.

We have a God who is more than just; he is merciful.

Prayer:
Father, help me to see beyond my own pettiness to your great mercy. Make me trust that your will is where justice and mercy meet. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost

What is God like? Is God fair?

These are the readings for the Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost.
(This Worship Help aligns with the lectionary readings from Christian Worship 1993 and Christian Worship: Supplement.)

God’s Word for This Week

What is our God like? Over the next four Sundays, the Church hears Jesus tell four parables that reveal characteristics of our God. Today’s lessons cause the worshiper to ask: Is God fair? No, he’s not. He doesn’t give us what we deserve, and that’s called mercy. In fact, he gives us what we don’t deserve, and that’s called grace. Our God is inconceivably gracious.

First Lesson – Isaiah 55:6-9

What urgency do you sense in the words “while he may be found” and “while he is near”?

This was their time of grace. Salvation was close at hand in the Word that was being preached to them. The opportunity for repentance was still being held out to them. Indeed, for God’s chosen people, there was no time like the present.

How are God’s thoughts and ways higher than man’s?

Man’s thoughts and ways are inherently evil and lead to eternal destruction; the Lord’s are good, righteous, and holy; and lead to everlasting life. Whereas the weight of man’s sins seems unpardonable, yet God in his mercy forgives them all.

How gracious is God?

His call to repentance doesn’t extend only to backsliding Christians. His call to return to him isn’t restricted to upright citizens. The Lord calls the ungodly and wicked men who worship lust and self. The Lord calls the hardened sinner whose conscience has long stopped balking at his deeds. Look at what he promises to these people when they repent: mercy and pardon—the care of God and the forgiveness of God. They won’t get what they deserve—that is mercy. They get what they don’t deserve—the free pardon of grace. God’s plan to save sinners by grace soars above all that we could conceive or imagine.

Supplemental First Lesson – Jonah 4:5-11

Jonah wanted Nineveh destroyed; in his mind, it would only be fair. Nineveh was wicked, bloodthirsty, and feared. Jonah had not wanted to prophesy to them because he was afraid that they might listen and repent. Jonah knew what that would mean: God would have compassion on them and forgive them (Jonah 4:4). But God is far more gracious than Jonah could have even imagined. The Lord taught his prophet with a vine and made a striking point. Jonah, though you had no part in the creation, growth, or life of this vine, yet you were so emotionally attached to it. But think of me, Jonah! Those people, those children—even those cows—I made them; I sustain them; I want them to be mine forever. So great is my grace!

Second Lesson – Philippians 1:18b-27

Who did Paul credit for sustaining him during his time of imprisonment?

First, Paul was leaning heavily on the powerful, persistent prayers of the Philippians, whose petitions were serving to further advance the gospel in his absence. Secondly, the ministration of the Holy Spirit in his heart gave him the strength and willingness to endure the present tribulation and rejoice in the knowledge that he could do all things through Christ, who gave him the strength.

How are the words “to live is Christ and to die is gain” a win-win situation in Paul’s mind?

Through Paul’s work, which entailed a good deal of hard, physical labor, as well as by the near-death experiences he encountered, Christ was highly exalted. It made no difference to Paul if this happened by his life or by his eventual death. If he lived, he would have the opportunity to grow more in the knowledge and likeness of Christ day by day. If he died, through Christ, all his hopes and expectations would be fulfilled.

What is Paul’s warning to the Philippians in verse 27?

Paul’s hope was that the Philippians would lead lives that would in no way bring shame or disgrace on the message of the gospel. This called for standing together firmly in one spirit. It called for solidarity and unity of faith in the face of attack. It called for firmness and constancy in the midst of temptation.

Supplemental Second Lesson – Romans 9:6b-16

Is God fair? Is God just?

Neither—he is inconceivably gracious, as our eternal election proves. Paul answers the question by pointing us back to God’s speech to Moses in Exodus 33. The Israelites had worshiped the golden calf, and Moses made intercession for them. Moses asked the LORD to show him his ways (v. 13) and his glory (v. 14). God responded by declaring his inconceivable grace: he would show mercy and grace to those he chose, regardless of any merit or worth. Though these people had abandoned him, he would be merciful and gracious to them. So also with us, the children of the faith of Abraham: God’s eternal election of us to salvation had nothing to do with merit, worth, or works but only stems from his inconceivable grace and mercy.

Gospel – Matthew 20:1-16

How is the world’s system of justice different from God’s?

In temporal, worldly affairs, whatever a person accomplishes and merits will be credited to him as a matter of just reward. But in the kingdom of God, all are justified solely by the grace of God. Whether we labor diligently in God’s vineyard all our lives or heed God’s call in the eleventh hour of life, the resulting salvation is the same.

Explain the seeming contradiction that “the last will be first and the first last?”

Unfortunately, there are those who are full of vain self-conceit who believe themselves to be the first before God, and for that very reason, in their woefully inadequate state, are the last. Conversely, those who are subservient and sincerely humble, assuming a meek attitude of heart, will be first where it counts—in the eyes of God.

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Because of His Love and Faithfulness – Week of September 25, 2023

Because of His Love and Faithfulness – Week of September 25, 2023



Not to us, LORD, not to us but to your name be the glory, because of your love and faithfulness.
Psalm 115:1



“I did it! I did it!” One of the best sounds of an early childhood room is hearing a child shout for joy when they accomplished a task they struggled with. They worked and worked, and their diligence paid off. What a moment! They’re so proud, and we’re proud of them.

You and I have tasks that challenge us as well. I would imagine everyone reading this can name at least one item on their to do list that pushes their abilities. After a lot of effort, trial and error, you get it. You also might shout out just like that child, “I did it!” What a great feeling.

“Not to us, LORD, but to your name be the glory.” This verse was written at the time that the people of Israel celebrated Passover in the magnificent temple in Jerusalem. The Israelites had been freed from their captivity under Pharaoh. All of this could easily tempt them to say, “Look at us and what we’ve done! We are an amazing nation to be feared and respected.” When we look closer at their story, we know they did nothing to cause their freedom from Pharaoh. God made that happen. That temple in Jerusalem? God’s direction and blessings to them provided the temple in all its splendor. The Israelites are a story that reminds us over and over of God’s love and faithfulness. They struggled. He provided. They sinned. He forgave. They turned their backs on God. He drew them back.

Because of your love and faithfulness. Those words are meant for us as well. You and I approach each day with a prayer that God would bless our tasks and our activities. We know that every day brings joy and disappointment, successes and failures. Each day we struggle with our biggest battle-our sin. And every day God is faithful in his love for us, his forgiveness, his work in us and through us.

What does all this mean for us? We do make progress in learning and growing. We have difficult challenges that with perseverance, we overcome. Is it wrong to rejoice in our accomplishments? No. Be glad in those moments. But never lose sight of where that success comes from—it comes from God. He who with unending patience and love, faithfully provides for all our needs. He gifts us with the ability to think and question and persevere. He gives us opportunity to use those gifts to serve him and those around us. And greater than all of this, he gifts us with his forgiving grace that gives us peace in him.

“I did it!” A moment to celebrate wrapping it all in gratitude for God who is full of love and faithfulness for each of us and for all his dear children. “I did it! Thank you, God, and to you be the glory!”



Prayer:
Thank you, God. You created me and gave me just the set of gifts you thought were best for me. Every day it’s my prayer that I use those gifts faithfully. Every day there are some successes but every day I also sin. I’m so grateful for your forgiveness and humbled that you use me. Help me always to reflect you in all I say and in all I do. Use it all to point people to you. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.

A Hymn to Consider:
For further reflection on the thoughts of today’s devotion:
CW21 582 Not unto Us


Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

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Is it right for you to be angry? – September 25, 2023

Read: Jonah 3:10-4:11

God said to Jonah, “Is it right for you to be angry?
Jonah 4:9

Is it right for you to be angry?

Family Devotion – September 25, 2023

Devotion based on Jonah 4:9

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“And now you know… the rest of the story.” That’s how a famous radio show from long ago ended its broadcast. Paul Harvey would share fascinating facts or forgotten bits of history but keep out key names and parts in order to create a “surprise.” After a brief pause, Mr. Harvey would conclude, “Now you know… the rest of the story.”

Jonah was called by God to preach against the evil people in a city called Nineveh. But Jonah ran away on a boat. The boat began to sink in a big storm. Jonah was swallowed by a large fish, learned of God’s grace, and went to Nineveh. The evil people repented, and asked God not to destroy them.

The end? Not quite. Here’s the rest of the story.

God changed his mind and did not destroy them. And what is Jonah’s reaction? Joy and thanks? Amazement how God used him as part of his saving plan? Nope. Jonah became angry. What? Jonah is angry that God saved people and didn’t destroy them? Yes, that is correct.

Jonah was angry because he knew God was gracious and forgiving, and that he loved saving people who talked and acted terribly. In fact, Jonah set up a little viewing area to see if the people or God would change their minds and destruction would still come.

While Jonah is waiting in the red-hot heat, God provided a plant that grew so tall it provided shade over his head. But the next day, a worm attacked the plant and it died. Boy, was Jonah mad about that! God scolded him. “You cared about this plant, but not about the hundreds of thousands of people in Nineveh?”

And now you know the rest of the story. So what do we learn? While Jonah knew God and experienced for himself God’s grace and mercy, Jonah didn’t think the people in Nineveh deserved God’s grace and mercy. Jonah’s story shows us what a lack of love for others can do. But the rest of the story also shows how much God loves the world, even people we don’t like because they have been terrible. That’s why Jesus died for them like he did for us. He wants all of us to be saved. That’s the story of the gospel.

Now you can share the rest of the story!

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we often struggle to love people in this world. Yet you sent Jesus to be the Savior of the whole world. Let us see every person you created as someone you love and want to give your grace, mercy, and forgiveness, just like me. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

  • Why was Jonah angry at the end of the story?
  • What did God tell Jonah about Nineveh?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Agree or disagree. When someone is not Christian or is mean to me, it is okay to not show them love.
  • Who does God want me to share forgiveness with? Why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Think of a time when someone has hurt you or been mean to you. What do you want to happen to them and why?
  • It isn’t easy to love and forgive someone you don’t get along with. Yet God does and wants us to. What does this show other people about our God and his mercy?

 

 

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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A Generous God – September 25, 2023

[Jesus said] “For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard. . . “When evening came, the owner of the vineyard said to his foreman, ‘Call the workers and pay them their wages, beginning with the last ones hired and going on to the first.’ “The workers who were hired about five in the afternoon came and each received a denarius. So when those came who were hired first, they expected to receive more. But each one of them also received a denarius. When they received it, they began to grumble against the landowner. . . “But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the one who was hired last the same as I gave you.’”
Matthew 20:1,8-11,13,14

A Generous God

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Daily Devotion – September 25, 2023

Devotion based on Matthew 20:1,8-11,13,14

See series: Devotions

A good story can change the way you see something or someone. Jesus’ story about the landowner and the workers he hires does just that.

Jesus didn’t tell this simple story so that we could learn something about economics or ancient farming practices. Jesus told it so it would change the way we look at the abundance of God’s grace.

In Jesus’ story, those who worked a full day received a full day’s wage. And those who worked less than a full day also received a full day’s wage. The reward was the same, regardless of time or amount of work.

It is a story that offends our sensibilities of what is fair but also changes how we see God. It teaches us that he has a higher goal than fairness. We are confronted with the beautiful truth that God’s love for us is not based on what we have done but on his generosity.

What a relief to know that our God is this generous! Take comfort in this truth and celebrate it today!

Prayer:
Father, allow me to see and appreciate the abundance of your grace. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Transformed – teen devotion – September 24, 2023

One truth shared: Sometimes we can question God’s fairness in regard to who is saved. In reality, we should change our perspective and recognize that it isn’t “fair” that God saves anyone, including us, because of our sinfulness. This leads us to see God’s generosity and rejoice in it.

“But he answered one of them, ‘I am not being unfair to you, friend. Didn’t you agree to work for a denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give the one who was hired last the same as I gave you. Don’t I have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous? “So the last will be first, and the first will be last.”
Matthew 20:13-16

Is God fair?

“Life’s not fair.”

Maybe your parents have said that to you before. You wanted to go to a movie with your friends, but you had to stay home and watch your younger siblings. You protested and pointed out the unfairness. You were simply hit with “Life’s not fair.”

Humans want things to be fair. We want everyone to get a fair shake. We also want everyone to do their fair share of the work to be done.

We let this desire for fairness spill into how we think about God and eternal life. We want to make sure that God is fair when it comes to whom he allows into his heaven.

Here’s some news for you. God’s not fair.

Jesus used a parable to make this point. A parable is a simple little story that contains profound truths about life and eternity.

He told the story of a man who hired some men to work in his vineyard. They agreed he would pay them one denarius (one day’s wage) for their work. He went out a little later and hired some more men for the day. He did this three more times throughout the day.

Some of the men worked twelve hours. Some worked nine hours. Some worked six hours. Some worked three hours, and some only worked one hour.

However, when the time came for them to paid, everyone was paid the same amount for their work. You can understand why the men who worked all day long were not very happy with the owner. It wasn’t fair!

But the owner showed that he was being completely fair. He paid them what they had agreed upon. He had every right to be generous and pay the rest of the men the same regardless of how long they worked.

Some people are baptized into God’s family as little babies and live their entire lives as Christians. Other people come to know Jesus as their Savior on their deathbed after living a life chasing after the things of the world. Many people come to believe in Jesus somewhere in between those two things. Yet all of them receive the forgiveness of sins and eternal life.

Is it fair that the murderer who comes to faith in prison will receive the same eternal reward as you?

That’s really the wrong question to ask. The right question would be “Is it fair that God sent his only Son to die on the cross for my sins even though I did nothing to deserve it?”

It isn’t. God’s not fair to himself. That’s a good thing for us. Rather than question God’s fairness, rejoice in his generosity! Rejoice that he gave up his only Son on the cross, so that you could live with him in heaven forever!

Prayer: Father in heaven, thank you for sending your Son to die for me even though it wasn’t fair to him. Help me to rejoice in your generosity every time a new person believes in you and your grace. Amen.


Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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The Threat of Destruction – September 24, 2023

When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he had compassion and did not bring upon them the destruction he had threatened.
Jonah 3:10

The Threat of Destruction

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Daily Devotion – September 24, 2023

Devotion based on Jonah 3:10

See series: Devotions

It’s terrifying to face the threat of destruction and death from the almighty, holy, one true God. The people of Nineveh faced this. They believed God was serious about his threat against them. They grasped the fact that they had fallen under the judgment of God because of their sinfulness. Even with their great military prowess, they could not defend themselves against God. So they turned to him and sought his mercy to be spared from destruction.

And what good news we read next! “God had compassion and did not bring upon them the destruction he had threatened.” The heart of God overflows with compassion toward people. “As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live” (Ezekiel 33:11).

Mindful of our sinfulness, we confess that we have failed to live according to God’s holy will. For this reason, we deserve death and destruction for our offenses against God. We acknowledge that we have no ability on our own to free ourselves from God’s just punishment. Our only hope is that he would have mercy on us.

The good news is that he does! “Because of the LORD‘s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail” (Lamentations 3:22). In love and compassion for us, God laid the guilt of our sin on his Son, Jesus, and punished him in our place. He freed us from eternal death and destruction in hell. Through Jesus, we have peace with God. His favor rests on us, and by faith in our Savior, we live in the joy of the salvation that he accomplished for us.

Prayer:
We wait in hope for the LORD; he is our help and our shield.
In him our hearts rejoice, for we trust in his holy name.
May your unfailing love be with us, LORD, even as we put our hope in you. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Forgiveness – September 23, 2023

When Joseph’s brothers saw that their father was dead, they said, “What if Joseph holds a grudge against us and pays us back for all the wrongs we did to him?” So they sent word to Joseph, saying, “Your father left these instructions before he died: ‘This is what you are to say to Joseph: I ask you to forgive your brothers the sins and the wrongs they committed in treating you so badly.’ Now please forgive the sins of the servants of the God of your father.” When their message came to him, Joseph wept. His brothers then came and threw themselves down before him. “We are your slaves,” they said. But Joseph said to them, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God? You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives. So then, don’t be afraid. I will provide for you and your children.”
Genesis 50:15-21

Forgiveness

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Daily Devotion – September 23, 2023

Devotion based on Genesis 50:15-21

See series: Devotions

Joseph’s brothers were afraid. They had done terrible things to Joseph; now Joseph was a powerful ruling official in Egypt. The lives of the brothers were in his hands. They were afraid!

The brothers’ problem was the fear of not being forgiven for what they had done to Joseph. They had sold their brother into slavery.

Like those men, we sometimes fear the repercussions of confessing what we have done wrong. But lying about our situation does not help at all. The person who cheated on their spouse, the worker who misappropriated funds, or the student who cheated on a test gains nothing positive by lying about it. Instead, though difficult, there is great benefit in confessing and asking for forgiveness.

Joseph said to his brothers, “Don’t be afraid. Am I in the place of God?” God’s forgiveness dismisses fear. Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross takes away all our sins—even those that are horrific. Followers of Christ dismiss fear because God freely forgives them. In response, as God does for them, they forgive the sin of others.

Forgiveness offered in love is the most powerful agent of change the world has ever seen. Joseph forgave because he knew God is a God of forgiveness. We forgive because we are forgiven by God through Jesus.

So then, don’t be afraid.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, may your gracious forgiveness of all my sins through Jesus lead me to forgive others as I have been forgiven. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Forgive them – September 22, 2023

Read: Matthew 18:21-35

Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, “Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother or sister who sins against me? Up to seven times?”

Jesus answered, “I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
Matthew 18:21,22

Forgive them

Family Devotion – September 22, 2023

Devotion based on Matthew 18:21,22

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Josh didn’t know whether to be mad or embarrassed. He totally dropped the ball during a playground kickball game at recess time. He saw a group of guys start laughing. Josh wished the teacher wasn’t around so he could punch them in the face.

Meanwhile on the other side of the playground was Jenna, who didn’t know whether to be mad or embarrassed. Her best friend started hanging around all the girls on the cheerleading squad and was ignoring her. They got into an argument, and she made fun of what Jenna was wearing. “Go ahead and sprain your ankle for all I care,” Jenna thought, “then you can’t cheer anymore.”

But what if five minutes later Jenna’s friend came up and told her that she was sorry? And the group of boys saw how upset Josh was and said, “Our bad, Josh. You’ll catch it next time.”

What if that was you? You might say you forgive them, but you still are irritated, right? It isn’t easy to forgive and let go of your hurt and anger.

Yet that’s what God asks us to do.

When Jesus tells today’s story, he asks us to think about all the times we yelled when we were angry, when we ignored people, when we cheated on our homework, when we made fun of others. He tells us to remember that when we tell God we are sorry that he absolutely says, “I forgive you.” He doesn’t look at us and think we are still jerks. He looks at us and loves us. He doesn’t give us the silent treatment. He invites us to pray to him and he loves to listen.

Because every single one of our sins have been forgiven, he tells us that we get to take the grace we’ve been given and pass it along to others too. That we get to say we forgive them—and mean it.

God knows this is hard—whether the first time or the seventy-seventh time. That’s why he fills you with strength to forgive by reminding us that Jesus understands. When Jesus was spit on, made fun of, and then nailed to a cross, he said, “Father, forgive them. They don’t know what they’re doing,” (Luke 23:34). Obviously the people knew they were hurting Jesus, that was the whole point of crucifixion. But they didn’t realize they were watching God’s innocent Son take the punishment for all sins.

But you do, don’t you?

Closing Prayer:

Dear Father, thank you for forgiving me over and over and over again. You are amazing! Help me to forgive others just like you forgive me. Give me the strength to love others the way you love me. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

  • Is it easy for you to say you’re sorry?
  • If someone says to you, “I’m sorry,” what will you say back to them?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Recall the last time you had to ask for forgiveness?
  • Why does being forgiven feel so good?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Is apologizing to someone a sign of humiliation or a sign of courage? Give your reasons.
  • Contemplate someone whom you need to forgive. Ask God to help change your heart.

 

 

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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God Under Attack – September 22, 2023

God Under Attack – September 22, 2023


How long will the enemy mock you, O God? Will the foe revile your name forever? Why do you hold back your hand, your right hand? Take it from the folds of your garment and destroy them!
Psalm 74:10,11




Military Devotion – September 22, 2023

Devotion based on Psalm 74:10,11

See series: Military Devotions

In the end, the attacks against God’s church are not so much aimed at us as they are at him. We are not the greatest enemy against the powers of darkness. He is.

This has always been the case. The invasion of Israel by the Babylonians and the destruction of the temple reveal this.

It’s difficult for us to grasp the horror of that invasion. We would need to imagine America being overrun by an enemy that threw out all our laws, dragged vast numbers of citizens away as captives, and settled its own people into our war-torn communities.

Then it destroyed our places of worship to wipe out any trace of our religion!

The psalmist described what the invading Babylonians did to Solomon’s temple. “Your foes roared in the place where you met with us;” he told the LORD, “They set up their standards as signs. They behaved like men wielding axes to cut through a thicket of trees. They smashed all the carved paneling with their axes and hatchets” (vs.4-6).

In shock, he reported to the LORD in whose name the temple had been dedicated, “They burned your sanctuary to the ground, they defiled the dwelling place of your Name. They said in their hearts, ‘We will crush them completely!’ They burned every place where God was worshiped in the land.”

It seemed like the LORD had abandoned his people. “We are given no miraculous signs,” the psalmist laments. “No prophets are left, and none of us knows how long this will be” (vs. 7-9).

What are the people of God to think when they see him under attack—and he does not fight back? Has he lost his power? Does he no longer care if his name is defiled, and his people destroyed?

Did he not declare “I am the LORD; that is my name! I will not give my glory to another or my praise to idols” (Isaiah 42:8).

So, the question arises in the psalm “How long will the enemy mock you, O God? Will the foe revile your name forever?” (v. 10)

It isn’t that the LORD is helpless. The psalmist knows better. So, his question now is, “Why do you hold back your hand, your right hand?”

He begs the LORD, “Take it from the folds of your garment and destroy them!” (v.11).

To a certain degree, we may know how he felt. When we see his people victimized and his name ridiculed, we wonder why he lets that happen. It seems as if he is standing with his hands in his pockets while evil triumphs.

Like the psalmist, we acknowledge him as our King and the bringer of salvation. Like the psalmist, we must say to him, “The day is yours, and yours also the night; you established the sun and moon. It was you who set all the boundaries of the earth; you made both summer and winter.”

Since that is true, since he is almighty, why doesn’t he show it?

We know he is Lord of all. We know that to reject him, much less defy him, brings horrendous consequences. In Psalm 2, we are told of his reaction to human threats. “The One enthroned in heaven laughs; the Lord scoffs at them. Then he rebukes them in his anger and terrifies them in his wrath.”

But he picks the time to act. He decides what his action will be. For besieged Israel, the day would come when the excited messenger would report, “Babylon has fallen, has fallen! All the images of its gods lie shattered on the ground!” (Isaiah 21:9)

The day came when the LORD took his hand out of his pocket and overthrew the haughty Babylonian empire overnight.

Always, he is in control. Never does anything escape his notice. Never is his love to be doubted. Always is his faithfulness our shield.

Hasn’t he proven that with our rescue from death and damnation by the death of his Son?

And what happens to his people while they wait for him to deliver from evil? It is written: “But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31).

Let us be among those who, in faith and hope, wait on the LORD to act in loving justice.

He surely will.

Just wait and see.



Prayer:
Eternal Father, strong to save, to you we commit ourselves and the world in which we live. Overlook our impatience when we question your decisions. Remind us that not only are your actions just, but you also strive to allow people time to turn to you in faith. You want none to perish. But neither will your kingdom perish. Amen.



Points to ponder:

  • Why do we assume we are the focus of attacks when God is the primary target?
  • What good might God accomplish by delaying the judgment of his enemies?
  • What does the fall of empires teach us about human history?


Written by Rev. Paul Ziemer, WELS National Civilian Chaplain and Liaison to the Military, Stillwater, Minnesota.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.


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Get Past the Grudge – September 22, 2023

[Jesus said] “The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt, and let him go. But when that servant went out, he found one of his fellow servants who owed him a hundred silver coins. He grabbed him and began to choke him. ‘Pay back what you owe me!’ he demanded. “His fellow servant fell to his knees and begged him, ‘Be patient with me, and I will pay it back.’ “But he refused. Instead, he went off and had the man thrown into prison until he could pay the debt.”
Matthew 18:27-30

Get Past the Grudge

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Daily Devotion – September 22, 2023

Devotion based on Matthew 18:27-30

See series: Devotions

A recent survey indicated the number one reason people stop going to church is that they hold a grudge. They disagree with something someone said or did and can’t bring themselves to resolve the problem, so they simply stay away from it.

In a parable told by Jesus, a servant who had a massive debt canceled goes out and finds a second servant who owes a much smaller debt to him. Instead of resolving it, the first servant holds it against the second servant and has the person thrown into prison, where it is difficult to resolve anything.

Can you see the relationship between the two situations?

God forgives people for every sin against him. He sent his son Jesus into the world to pay the debt for every sin. Jesus suffered hell and set people free from the guilt of sin and from the fear of death.

But those same forgiven people decide to hold everyone around them accountable for every sin and every grievance, large or small. They nurse grudges rather than forgiving people, who often don’t even realize what they have done.

Then the servants who forget their own forgiveness stay away from church, where the power of forgiveness in Word and sacrament could give them the strength to forgive the people who have grieved them. It’s not a good situation.

Get past the grudge. Forgive the other person. Rejoin the Christian assembly. Stay connected to Jesus! Live in forgiveness.

Prayer:
How lovely is your dwelling place, Lord Almighty! Blessed are those who dwell in your house; they are ever praising you. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Debts – September 21, 2023

[Jesus said] “Therefore, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants. As he began the settlement, a man who owed him ten thousand bags of gold was brought to him. Since he was not able to pay, the master ordered that he and his wife and his children and all that he had be sold to repay the debt. “At this the servant fell on his knees before him. ‘Be patient with me,’ he begged, ‘and I will pay back everything.’ The servant’s master took pity on him, canceled the debt, and let him go.”
Matthew 18:23-27

Debts

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Daily Devotion – September 21, 2023

Devotion based on Matthew 18:23-27

See series: Devotions

Matthew, the apostle and evangelist, knew all about debts. Before he became a disciple of Jesus, he had been a tax collector—responsible for collecting money from people in Israel on behalf of the occupying Roman government. He would have kept track of income and debts for people from all levels of society and would have been aware of how people got into trouble with difficulty paying off their debts.

Matthew must have been fascinated by Jesus telling the story of the servant of a king who had a huge debt. The debt was millions of days’ worth of wages, an impossible sum. Matthew knew what happened to people who accumulated such massive debts. Everything they had, everything dear to them, even their families, would have been sold or enlisted to pay off the debt. Matthew may even have seen such scenarios play out in real life.

Imagine Matthew’s surprise when someone in the story with ultimate authority, a king and master, takes pity on the man with the debt and simply cancels it. A king could do that, but it was probably a rare event.

As Matthew got to know Jesus, he would have realized that the story was about him and about each one of us. Our debt to God is unpayable because of the things we have done wrong, and the good things we have neglected to do. He should send us to hell. Instead, because of the payment that Jesus made for us on the cross, God takes pity on us, cancels our debt, and promises us heaven.

Prayer:
Lord God, thank you for taking pity on us, canceling our debt to you, and setting us free in Jesus. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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You Can Make a Difference – September 20, 2023

Read: Ephesians 4:29-5:2

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Ephesians 4:29

You Can Make a Difference

Family Devotion – September 20, 2023

Devotion based on Ephesians 4:29

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Have you heard that before? It’s been around a long time. In fact, this rhyme was first written in 1872. Since then, for over 150 years, kids have said it to let others know that their mean words don’t really bother them.

There’s another phrase that’s kind of like it: “I’m rubber, you’re glue, whatever you say bounces off of me and sticks to you.”

What do both of those phrases have in common? Each one is a big fat lie. Words do hurt. The mean things people say don’t actually bounce right off, but too often stick like glue in our brains.

God knows that your heart will hurt because of what other people say and do. Because it hurts to hear “Nobody likes a know-it-all” or “We don’t want you to play with us at recess” or “Why are you so stupid?” or “You aren’t funny.”

For people who believe in Jesus, God wants you to be different and make a difference in other people’s lives. That’s why he tells you to only say things that are helpful. You can build people up by saying things like, “Thanks for being a great friend.” Or, “Do you need my help?” Or, “Hey, are you okay? Want to talk?” Or, “That was really nice. Thank you!”

God doesn’t want us to only encourage with our words, we get to let our actions speak as well. We choose to be kind, helping our friends when they need it. We have compassion, seeing when someone is hurting and helping them by listening and showing them we care. We forgive people who sin against us. We choose to love people the same way that Jesus loved us.

Words can hurt, but words can heal too. Choose your words wisely.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Holy Spirit, you live inside of me, so work in me so that my words are helpful. Get rid of my anger and fighting. Help me be kind, compassionate, and forgiving. Give me the strength to walk in the way of love, just like Jesus loves me. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

  • What are some nice things people have said to you?
  • What’s a nice thing you can say to one of your friends?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Identify a friend who needs cheering up. What ways can you do that?
  • Why does God want you to speak and act kindly to others? Read Ephesians 5:1-2.

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • Think of your friend group. Which of them really listens to you and makes you feel good? Tomorrow, make it a point to thank them for being such a good friend.
  • Being kind and cheerful is important around your home. Discuss with your family how you can better support each other with a cheerful attitude and kind words.

 

 

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Where You Get the Strength – September 20, 2023

Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.
Ephesians 4:32

Where You Get the Strength

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Daily Devotion – September 20, 2023

Devotion based on Ephesians 4:32

See series: Devotions

My dad had to say it to me and my siblings so often that he ended up abbreviating it. “ABK!” he would call out to the back seats of the station wagon. “ABK!” he would yell upstairs where our bedrooms were. “ABK!” he would say in the backyard while sitting in his lawn chair near the grill and watching us play.

“ABK” stood for Always Be Kind.

We knew Christians were supposed to be kind. We had heard the Bible verse, “By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” But it was so hard! Siblings were so annoying and obnoxious! And whatever it was, they did it on purpose!

It’s difficult for adults to be kind and compassionate as well. Being unkind seems to come naturally. To be honest, it’s easy to prove that other people don’t deserve our kindness. Unkindness seems to come just as naturally to them as it does to me.

Where will I ever get the strength to forgive unkind people?

The strength will come from realizing that God has forgiven me even when I don’t deserve it. I will get the strength from seeing how Christ treated me even when I was a sinner. My own forgiveness from a kind and compassionate God will give me the strength to be kind and compassionate as well.

There is a hint in the Lord’s Prayer. “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us.” When I call on God to forgive my sins, I am called to do the same for all those unkind people around me.

Prayer: (Christian Worship: Hymnal – 379)
“Forgive our sins as we forgive,” you taught us, Lord, to pray, but you alone can grant us grace to live the words we say. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Refrain Then Replace – September 19, 2023

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Ephesians 4:29

Refrain Then Replace

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Daily Devotion – September 19, 2023

Devotion based on Ephesians 4:29

See series: Devotions

Using ungodly language is such an easy habit to get into. People misuse God’s name every day. Dirty jokes are easy to remember and, sadly, often get a good reaction. Harming someone else’s reputation is, unfortunately, usually super satisfying. All these bad practices are what our Bible reading for today refers to as unwholesome. You know they are wrong, but you are rarely called to account for them.

Stop it. Refrain. Get out of the habit. Tell people to remind you. Do not go back to the habit. Confess your sins to the Lord. Ask him for forgiveness.

Because Jesus never used ungodly language, never misused the name of God, never told a dirty joke, and never hurt another person’s reputation, but still died to take the punishment for those sins, you are forgiven. Your mouth is cleansed. You are wholesome in God’s sight.

You may still notice that the whole unwholesome talk habit is hard to break. “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all” is great advice, but very difficult to carry out.

Here’s some help. When you are tempted to say something bad, say something good instead. What counts as good talk? Anything that is helpful for building others up according to their needs. This includes compliments, encouragement, and solid advice. You know those things are right.

Refrain from unwholesome talk. Replace it with wholesome talk. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt. If you struggle with that, steer the conversation toward Jesus, your Savior. That will always benefit anyone who is listening.

Prayer: (Christian Worship: Hymnal – 695)
Lord Jesus, take my voice and let me sing always, only, for my King. Take my lips and let them be filled with messages from thee. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost

The Church Forgives as God Forgives

These are the readings for the Seventeenth Sunday after Pentecost.
(This Worship Help aligns with the lectionary readings from Christian Worship 1993 and Christian Worship: Supplement.)

God’s Word for This Week

One timeless truth we review Sunday after Sunday is this: God, in his boundless grace and mercy, has forgiven me, a poor, miserable sinner. One of the special blessings of having Christian friends is that they, too, forgive. Today, in his Word, God speaks to us about the correlation between being forgiven and forgiving.

First Lesson – Genesis 50:15-21

Joseph wept as his brothers spoke to him. Were these tears of sorrow or tears of joy?

Likely, both. There were tears of sorrow as it grieved Joseph to think that his brothers believed him capable of such retaliation. Also, his eyes welled with tears of joy over the evidence of his brothers’ complete repentance.

What comfort does the Christian find in verse 20?

God, in his love and providence, frustrates the evil intent of those who oppose us and turns the intended evil to work good in our lives, in this case, for the salvation of many.

Second Lesson – Romans 14:5-9

What advice does Paul give for the maintenance of Christian harmony and charity in the church?

Let him that eats not despise him that doesn’t eat, thus looking down with contempt on the weaker brother and his scruples with regard to food. On the other hand, the one that refuses to partake of meat should not condemn him that eats, as though he were less spiritual. Thus, the warning against judging is substantiated in this that God has accepted him. Do not pass judgment on a brother who is Christ’s own.

“Whether we live, therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s” (v. 8b). Apply these words to your life.

The mind of the Christian, whether he partakes of certain foods or not, whether he observes certain days or not, is always directed to the Lord because the whole life of the Christian, as well as his death, is devoted and consecrated to the Lord. Since his soul and body thoughts and acts are dedicated to the Lord, the believer will naturally think of his honor first in all things.

Supplemental Second Lesson – Ephesians 4:29-5:2

Paul commands us not to act like the unmerciful servant, but rather: “Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling, and slander, along with every form of malice.” The Church is comprised of people who have been sealed for redemption, so let’s act like it! Not only kindness and compassion but forgiveness is the primary mark of the Christian. We forgive because God forgave us in Christ. That makes us imitators of God. Every Old Testament sacrificial victim pointed ahead to the death of Christ, the fragrant offering, and the atoning sacrifice that won our forgiveness and inspires our forgiveness for others.

Gospel – Matthew 18:21-35

Put into practical terms the meaning of Jesus’ command to forgive “not seven times, but seventy-seven times.”

Christ’s answer is staggering! Jesus did not begin with an insignificant number, nor would he be tied down to any definite sum. No number can begin to show the greatness of forgiving love that is found in the hearts of Christians. There is no set number of times that we should forgive an erring brother and reinstate him in our good graces. Love and forgiveness go beyond petty calculations.

What makes the first servant’s lack of mercy so revolting?

Moments after receiving an immeasurable present of mercy from the king, the servant hunted down, seized by the throat, and choked a fellow servant who owed him an insignificant sum, then wreaked his vengeance upon him by casting him into prison.

Paraphrase the parable’s application as found in verse 35.

Ignorance and forgetfulness of our own guilt leave us harsh and unforgiving toward others. But remember, God will be merciless to the merciless. Without exception, he wants us to be ready, at all times, to forgive from the heart, just as he, in mercy, has forgiven our enormous debt.

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God’s Plan for You – September 18, 2023

Read: Genesis 50:15-21

Joseph said to [his brothers], “Don’t be afraid. You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.”
Genesis 50:19,20

God’s Plan for You

Family Devotion – September 18, 2023

Devotion based on Genesis 50:19,20

See series: Devotions

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Theodor Seuss Giesel, you know him as Dr. Seuss, was told by 27 different publishing companies that his first book was no good. Retired NBA basketball star, Michael Jordan, was cut from his high school varsity team and moved down to the junior varsity team. Walt Disney was fired from his first job because he “lacked imagination and had no good ideas.” It would have been easy for any of those talented and famous people to get angry, yet somehow, they overcame hard times and became very successful.

Joseph’s life is like you and Dr. Seuss and Disney and Jordan and every person ever. He experienced hard times. His own brothers sold him into slavery to get rid of him. He was taken away from his home to far-off Egypt. Then he was thrown in prison for something he didn’t do. His prison friend who was about to be freed promised to help Joseph. But when he got out, he completely forgot all about Joseph. Yet God used all of those hard times for his purpose. In the end, Joseph became second-in-command of the whole country of Egypt. When he finally reunited with his remorseful brothers, he shared how God worked. “Even though you planned evil against me, God planned good to come out of it” (Genesis 50:20).

Wow! If you were Joseph, would you have said that? If your family sold you, could you forgive them? Here’s something to remember: Because God forgave all of our sins through Jesus, we can forgive others as quickly as Joseph forgave his brothers. Because the Holy Spirit lives inside of us, we can learn how to see how God uses our hard times for our good. Through it, he helps us become more forgiving, more patient, and more compassionate with other people.

We can look at all the bad things in our lives and trust that he will make this Bible passage as true for us as he did for Joseph, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28).

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, I don’t always see how you are going to work all things for good, especially when people hurt me. Work in me so I am so thankful for all the ways and times you forgive me that I am quick to forgive others, knowing that even if they mean it for harm, you will work it for good. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

  • Name a sad thing that happened in your life when it felt like things didn’t go your way?
  • In today’s devotion, what does God promise to do with the sad things that happen in your life?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

  • Joseph was treated unfairly. When was the last time you felt the same?
  • What are some things we can do to remind each other that God will work back things for good?

Questions for Middle School and Above

  • If something bad happens: (pick one)
    a. It means God is punishing you.
    b. Wait and see how God works it out for your good.
    c. Hang in there and hope your luck changes.
  • What in your life was hard, but you now see how God worked it for good?

 

 

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.
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