[Jesus said] “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
A Heavy Burden
We know what it is like to carry a heavy burden. Our arms begin to ache as we strain to hold up the weight. Our back muscles tighten, and our legs tire under the strain. We can only carry the load so long, and we are forced to put it down and rest. Sometimes the burden we carry is not with our arms, back, and legs, but on our hearts. Burdens of sadness, loneliness, discouragement, and dismay are very real and cause us to long for rest from their weight. Our spirits can be crushed if these burdens get too heavy and we carry them too long.
While Jesus understands these kinds of burdens and is present to help us carry them, these burdens aren’t the most oppressive. When our Savior invites us to come to him for rest, he means a different kind of burden that makes people weary and tired. That is the burden of sin and how sin disrupts our relationship with God. The Bible tells us, “Whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it” (James 2:10). The demand that the Law of God makes is impossible for us to keep. We cannot perfectly fulfill its requirements.
We can’t get out from under the burden of sin by our own power. There is only one way for us to have relief. Jesus came to lift sin’s burden off our hearts. He carried that heavy burden of sin’s guilt for us and gives us rest. He gives us the assurance that our sins are forgiven and that God doesn’t count us guilty. We have the peace of knowing that our relationship with God is restored. Through Jesus, there is now no fear of God’s strict judgment of condemnation against us. We are free from sin’s burden. In Jesus, we have rest!
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, I know that I have sinned in many ways and the guilt on my heart is a burden that is too heavy to bear. I praise you for taking the burden of my guilt and carrying it for meāsuffering and dying to free me of its load and giving me the rest of full forgiveness. Amen.
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When I visited the Republic of Korea last month, I met with Jim Brandt and his wife Kathy. They live in Thailand and are part of the Asia-Oceania Team. Part of their responsibilities are to plant house churches. Jim mentors and coaches over 700 groups who gather around Word and Sacrament in the Asia-Oceania region. Thatās incredible! Over 700 groups of people who want to grow in the promises of Jesus and who are going out with those promises of Jesus.Ā Ā
Itās incredible because this is how God first planted faith in your heart. For some of you, it was at your baptism. Through water and his Word, the Holy Spirit planted the seed of faith in your heart so that you believe Jesus has saved you from death, from sin, from the devil, and has saved you for eternal life. For others, it was a friend, family member or stranger who shared the good news of Jesus with you. Through that Word the Holy Spirit planted the seed in your heart. Ā
What does all of this have to do with WELS Ministry to the Military? Sometimes military members retire and stay in the area of their last duty station. That is true for at least one individual right here in the Republic of Korea. He will retire this year and remain here. He is already being trained through the Friends Network. He is already working with Great Light Lutheran Church in Seoul. He wants to sow the seed of the gospel among fellow US service members and the ROK Army Soldiers.Ā Ā
I am not saying that you need to up and move to Asia to do this work. God has put you right where you are for a very specific purpose. Plant the seed of the gospel wherever God has planted you. Whether thatās in the barracks, on base housing or off base/post housing, at the range, in the schoolhouse or downrange ā grow in that life-giving and life-sustaining Word that has been planted in you. And then go. Go and plant the seed of the gospel and let God do the work. Ā
Listen to Godās promise through Isaiah: āAs the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for eater, so is my Word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent itā (Isaiah 55:10-11) .Ā
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I pray for all our military service members and their families. You often plant them in unique settings where civilians cannot go. Send your Holy Spirit to them through your Word and Sacrament. Cause them to be firmly planted in your promises. Then make them faithful planters of your seed. Cause it to grow according to your good purpose. Amen.Ā Ā
Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.
[Jesus said] āCome to me all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.ā Matthew 11:28-30 (EHV)
The Best Kind of Rest
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
There is no animal that purposely delays sleep. Whether it is a giraffe needing 2 hours of sleep or a cat needing 20, no animal will go out of its way to not rest. People, however, are quite different. Despite knowing the dangers associated with lack of sleep and rest we humans continue to work too long and rest too little. We stay up watching shows, playing video games, scrolling on a device, or trying to finish one more thing before bed.
The God who made us knows that we need rest. But Jesus came to give us more than a good nightās sleep. He doesnāt give us one more thing to do, another homework assignment, or one more project to finish. Instead, Jesus invites us to himself so that he can give us rest.
Certainly, Jesus gives us an example of rest. Even the Son of God would take time to sleep, to pray, and to spend time in Godās Word.
But the most important rest Jesus gives is for your soul. He gives you rest when he says that your sins are forgiven. You donāt have to carry around the burden of guilt and the wrong things youāve done. Jesus took the sins off your back, carried them to the cross himself, and took their punishment away. Because of him, you are Godās child and Jesusā friendāforever!
Jesus gives you rest as he cares for you even now directing all things for your eternal good. Your life does not consist of you having to be smart enough to figure it all out or to outhustle everyone around you. You can be confident that good things await you because God is directing everything for your sake.
Finally, Jesus will give you the greatest rest you will ever know as he is in heaven preparing a place for you to be with him forever. The gentle and humble Savior has promised a place with him forever.
In a world where we so often fail to rest, our Jesus gives us exactly the rest we need.
Prayer:
Father in heaven, our souls are not at rest until they rest in you. Give us the rest Jesus offers to us. 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
Who does Jesus invite to come to him in these verses?
What kinds of things can make people feel tired, worried, or burdened?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
How does Jesus describe the rest he gives?
Jesus says he is “gentle and humble.” Why is it comforting to know that Jesus is kind and patient with us?
Questions for Middle School and Above
What are some things kids your age worry about? How can Jesus help you with those worries?
The devotion says that you don’t have to have all the answers because God is caring for you. When is it hard to trust God instead of worrying?
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[Jesus said] “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:29
Carrying the Cross
The Bible teaches that the burden of sin and selfishness is great because God’s judgment always follows. Simply put, “the wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23). Adam’s first sin is a perfect illustration. He followed the path of self-indulgence. “When you eat of [the tree],” Satan promised, “your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God” (Genesis 3:5). But when Adam pursued that path, he discovered that Godās promises always stand. God had promised, “When you eat from it, you will certainly die” (Genesis 2:17).
In our arrogance, we think we can get away with our self-centered sinfulness. But God’s all-seeing holiness hones in on us, noting every godless thought, word, and deed. His perfect law closes every loophole, rejects every excuse, and refuses every rationale.
Which makes the saving work of Jesus and his glorious cross all the more stunning! Jesus took the shackles of God’s law on himself and carried the burden for us without stumbling. Then he picked up the heavy cross of Godās judgment and laid aside his Father’s righteous verdict against us by taking up our sin and penalty. He truly became “sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness [perfection] of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21).
Jesus took our great burden from us, and now he invites us to take up an entirely different cross, the cross of discipleship. “Take my yoke upon you,” Jesus says, “and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart.” Our Savior God offers free lessons in carrying crosses. He models for us the self-sacrificing love we are created to have for others.
And this new glorious cross doesn’t end in judgment. It ends with his promise: “You will find rest for your souls.”
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, give me the strength to carry every cross that comes my way as a result of following you. Amen.
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[Jesus said] “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28
First Weariness, Then Rest
Jesus spoke in no uncertain terms about the details of Christian discipleship. He said, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me” (Matthew 16:24).
At first blush, self-denial seems like a relatively easy standard to meet. But Christian self-denial requires us to keep God’s great commandments perfectly: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” “Love your neighbor as yourself.” It requires us to abandon self-love completely and to concentrate all our time, energy, and effort on others.
Jesus is the perfect model of self-denial and love for others. He came into this world ānot to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for manyā (Matthew 20:28). Now he calls us to expend our lives completely on others. “As I have loved you,” Jesus commanded, “so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another” (John 13:34,35).
This kind of perfect love is difficult and wearisome, and not just because we are selfish and sinful. It was also a challenge for the perfect Son of God who “offered up prayers and petitions with fervent cries and tears to the one who could save him from death” (Hebrews 5:7). He was truly tempted to abandon his love for others (Hebrews 4:15). So, when he commands us to take up our cross and sacrifice ourselves for others, he knows the burden intimately. He carried that burden himself!
Yet to us who now carry the cross of Christian discipleship, Jesus makes an astounding offer: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” The one who carried the burden of the cross, loaded down by our sin, now offers his strength, help, and guidance as we pick up our cross of discipleship.
At first glance, our cross looks heavy, covered with sharp splinters. But Jesus’ love and saving power replace our weariness with true rest and power for godly living, and we see our cross in all its glory.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, help me carry the cross of discipleship with confidence and joy. Amen.
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Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! Romans 7:24-25a (ESV)
Jesus Does What I Can’t
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
At seven years old, on the way home from church, Matt sat in the back seat of the car and proudly announced to his parents that he wasnāt going to sin anymore. Both of his parents chuckled, and his dad told him that he hoped he was right.
Mattās promise was short-lived. After arriving home, he didnāt like what his mom made for lunch and complained about it. Shortly after lunch, he and his brother had to go to timeout for fighting over Legos. Then before bed, he got in trouble again for sneaking cookies after he brushed his teeth.
Matt really did mean it when he told his parents he wasnāt going to sin anymore. But by the end of the day, he had already broken his promise several times!
Have you ever told yourself that you werenāt going to sin anymore only to find yourself still doing wrong things? Maybe you promised not to argue with your brother or sister. Maybe you said you would stop complaining or always obey your parents right away. But sometimes we still do the wrong thing, even when we don’t want to.
That happened to the apostle Paul too. He loved God and wanted to do what was right. But he still struggled with sin. That is why he cried out, “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24).
Notice what Paul does not ask. He doesnāt ask, “How can I try harder?” or “What rules can I follow to fix myself?” He asks, āWho will rescue me?ā Paul knew he needed more than self-control. He needed a Savior. A deliverer.
And then Paul gives the answer: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:25).
Your peace with God does not depend on you finally getting it right. It depends entirely on Jesus who already got it right for you. The harder you try to save yourself, the more tired you become. The more you trust Jesus, the more rest you find.
Jesus does what we can’t. True rest begins when you reach the end of yourself and find Christ waiting there. So, rest in Jesus!
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, we confess that the good we want to do, we so often fail to do. Forgive us for trying to rely on our own strength. Thank you, that getting to heaven doesn’t depend on what we do for you, but on what you have already done for us. Give us true peace, knowing that we are safe in your loving hands. 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
In the Bible verse, Paul asks who will rescue him from his mistakes, and then he says, “Thanks be to God through . . .” Who is the Savior Paul is thanking?
Have you ever tried really hard to be good (like sharing your toys or listening right away) but still made a mistake? How does it feel to know that Jesus always forgives you and loves you anyway?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
Why couldn’t Paul save himself from his sin?
Paul didn’t ask for a checklist of rules to fix himself but instead asked who would rescue him. Why is looking to a person (Jesus) better than just trying to follow a checklist of rules when we mess up?
Questions for Middle School and Above
True or False: We are both a sinner and a saint at the same time.
Sometimes Christians keep struggling with the same sins. How does knowing that Jesus has already forgiven you help you avoid giving up or feeling hopeless?
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Jesus said, “Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. . . No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.” Matthew 11:26-27
A Purposeful Choice
Jesus and his cross are natural stumbling blocks to sinners like us. Why, then, do we believe something that seems so silly? Jesus explained when he prayed, “Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do. . . No one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.”
To be sure, God “wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4). Thatās why he sacrificed his beloved Son to be “the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world” (1 John 2:2). God is so patient and long-suffering with the people of this world that he even plays the part of the fool, holding out his hands “all day longā¦to a disobedient and obstinate people” (Roman 10:21), only to have those hands remain mostly empty because so many reject his free gift of forgiveness.
Is that Godās fault? Hardly! Jesus has won mankind’s salvation completely, yet God forces no one to be saved. Instead, he works mysteriously and powerfully through his Word and Spirit. Through his Word, he shatters our pride and self-reliance, then calls us to trust in him and to see the glory of Christās cross.
So, our Christian faith is no accident. It’s Godās purposeful choice. “The LORD has done this, and it is marvelous in our eyes.”
Prayer:
Thank you, Jesus, for graciously leading me to trust in you through the gospel. Amen.
Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.” Matthew 11:25
A Revealed Glory
The Bible teaches us that the glory of Christ’s cross is naturally hidden from us. It is hidden behind the horrific dreadfulness of God’s shameful suffering and death there.
Martin Luther explained this important truth in his Small Catechism with these words: “I believe that I cannot by my own thinking or choosing believe in Jesus Christ, my Lord, or come to him.” With that explanation, Luther was echoing the words of the apostle Paul, who wrote: “āWhat no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, what no mind has conceivedā [these are] the things God has prepared for those who love him” (1 Corinthians 2:9). Simply put, left to ourselves, sinful humans would never be able to see or fathom the hidden realities of God’s glorious, behind-the-scenes workings at Christās cross.
The Lord himself explains why this is true through his prophet Isaiah, “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (55:9). In other words, the divine plan and purpose are far beyond our puny human senses. By nature, we see and sense the opposite of Godās reality. God often does the opposite of what we expect.
If that’s true, then how can anyone comprehend the divine truth? By ourselves we can’t, but the Bible tells us that, “these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit” (1 Corinthians 2:10). As Luther explained: “The Holy Spirit has called me by the gospel, enlightened me with his gifts, sanctified and kept me in the true faith.”
Through his Wordālaw and gospelāthe Holy Spirit brings us to humble repentance, a change of mind. First, he shows us our need for a Savior, and then at the cross, he proclaims that we have one, a perfect One.
Suddenly, the cross’s hidden glory is revealed!
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, lead me daily to repentance through your holy Word so that I see the glory of your cross through the eyes of faith. Amen.
And the LORD said, āBehold, there is a place by me where you shall stand on the rock, and while my glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by. Exodus 33:21-22 (ESV)
Safe in Jesusā Hands
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Whether it is a scary part in a movie or a loud dog at the park, young children will often reach for their parents’ hand. They want to know if their mom and dad are still there and if they are safe. Their parentsā hand lets them know that wherever they are going they donāt need to be afraid. Someone stronger is there to protect them.
The burden of leadership must have been exhausting for Moses. Every day he helped lead hundreds of thousands of people through the wilderness. The people often complained about food, water, and even about Moses himself. One time, a golden calf seemed more attractive to worship than even God himself! Moses must have been tired, discouraged, and overwhelmed.
God had promised Moses, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest” (Exodus 33:14). But Moses wanted even more reassurance. He cried out, “Please, show me your glory” (Exodus 33:18).
God answered Mosesā request, but in a special way. No sinful person can look directly at all of Godās holy glory and live. So, the Lord placed Moses in the cleft of a rockāa safe hiding placeāand covered him with his own hand as his glory passed by.
Moses found rest not by escaping his work, but by being safely hidden in the care of God Almighty. Moses learned that Godās glory isnāt just a burning fire of judgment. Godās glory is also his mercy and kindness. He is slow to anger and full of faithful love.
Like Moses, we also pray to a gracious God that the Rock of ages would hide us as well. We donāt need to hide in a rocky outcropping like Moses did, but we do need Jesus. Jesus keeps us safe in his grace and gives us true rest. In Jesus, Godās glory is seen as his saving grace. Jesus stretched out his nailed-scarred hands on the cross. Now those same loving hands watch over you and everywhere you go. Wherever you go, Jesus goes with you.
Hidden in Christ, your sins are forgiven, your burdens are carried, and your soul is granted eternal rest. Godās hand is on you, and you are safe with him!
Prayer:
Lord God, heavenly Father, when we feel worried, scared, or tired, remind us that Jesus is our safe place. Hide us in the shelter of our rock, Jesus Christ. Thank you for revealing your glory to us through your Word and sacraments. Thank you for forgiving our sins and giving us peace and rest. 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
Where did God hide Moses to keep him safe while his glory passed by?
Jesus is like that āsafe rockā for us. When are times that you feel scared, worried, or nervous? How does it help to know that Jesus is always with you?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
Moses had a very big job leading God’s people through the wilderness. What are some things that can make kids feel tired, frustrated, or overwhelmed?
Why couldn’t Moses look directly at Godās holy glory? How does God show us his grace and love today without scaring us?
Questions for Middle School and Above
The devotion says that Jesus is our safe rock. What do you think that means?
How does Godās Word in Holy Baptism and Holy Communion āsafely hideā us when we face doubts or guilt?
Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.” Matthew 11:25
A Hidden Glory
In his first letter to the Christians in the city of Corinth, the apostle Paul uses an interesting word to describe the “message of the cross.” He calls it “foolishness” (1 Corinthians 1:18). The idea that a man killed on a cross could accomplish anything, much less the eternal salvation of the world, seems foolish to the people of this world.
So, when we proclaim the message of the cross, as Paul once did, it sometimes means being met with blank stares and cold hearts. In their unbelief, this world does not recognize the glory of the cross. To them, it is hidden.
But you might be surprised at who hides its glory. God does! Jesus said to his Father, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things ā¦” And from whom has the Lord hidden the glory of the cross? “From the wise and learned.”
Does that mean Jesus has something against people with high IQs and post-graduate degrees? No, that’s certainly not his point. God is the giver of all gifts, including wisdom and knowledge. There is nothing wrong with being “wise and learned” unless you abuse these gifts by denying the hidden realities of the glorious cross.
Too often we do just that! We are tempted to take our eyes off Christ’s cross and to focus our attention on other things in this world that seem grander and more glorious, wiser and more learned. By nature, we claim to be wise, only to have God declare us the greatest of fools. Paul tells us the truth: even when God is being foolish, he “is wiser than human wisdom,ā and even at his weakest, he “is stronger than human strength” (1 Corinthians 1:25).
So, Jesus says, stop being so “wise.” Instead, be like a little child. Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 18:3).
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, help me set aside my worldly wisdom and give me the faith of a child so that I can see the hidden glory, wisdom, and power of your foolish cross. Amen.
One key truth: Jesusā presence and approval give me true rest that also makes me stand out in an exhausted world.
Moses said to the LORD, āYou have been telling me, āLead these people,ā but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, āI know you by name and you have found favor with me.ā If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.ā
The LORD replied, āMy Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.ā
Then Moses said to him, āIf your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?ā
And the LORD said to Moses, āI will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name.ā Exodus 33:12-17
Christians Find Rest in Jesus
Moses was tired.
Leading Godās people, the Israelites, through the wilderness must have been physically exhausting.
Moses was also sick and tired.
Sick and tired of feeling like he was leading the people all by himself. Sick and tired of dealing with people who complained, argued, and doubted. God called him to lead his people, but the people were anything but easy to lead. He wanted to cling to Godās promises. He wanted to please God. He wanted himself and his people to stand out from the rest of the world as those who followed the true God. But he wondered if those things were even possible.
Can you relate to Moses in one of these ways? Are you exhaustedātrying to keep up with school, sports, work, activities, friendships, family expectations, and everything else life throws at you? Have you ever felt very alone? Have you tried to lead someone or something and been frustrated with the process? Do you want to be known as someone whose faith in God shines brightly in a dark world, but youāre not quite sure how to do that?
The way forward actually starts with being still. Finding true rest.
God is an expert in rest. He created it. All kinds of rest. And he wants you to have the rest he gives. It starts with believing he is with you every step of every day. You are not alone. Godās presence is with you.
That can help take the pressure off. Especially if you are leading someone or something.
But what takes the pressure off even more is knowing that God is already pleased with you because of Jesus. He worked hard, fought, and died so that you could have the peace of forgiveness. You can rest assured you have Godās love and approval right now. You already have it. Thatās resting in Jesus!
Living in the peace of forgiveness and living from the rest of Jesusā performance for you makes you stand out like nothing else. In a world full of anxious, exhausted, stressed-out people trying to prove themselves, Christians get to live differently. Keep running to Jesus for rest. People will notice.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for being the true rest I need. I am loved and approved by God because of you! When I am tired, let me run to you. When I am lonely, remind me of your presence. When I lead, be my leader. Let me stand out to the world as someone who has a peace-filled heart. Amen.
Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
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What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! Romans 7:24-25
Freedom
The stories of prisoners of war who survived are fascinating. The accounts of the brutal and inhumane treatment by the enemy are horrific. The extreme emotions felt by the prisoners are breathtaking: the terror of being completely controlled by the enemy, the hopelessness of recognizing that escape is impossible, and the desperation of knowing that if not rescued or released, death is soon right around the corner.
Fortunately, stories of survivors don’t end there. They include rescue or release, and the emotions that go along with it. The relief, joy, and gratitude that are described by these former prisoners make their stories enjoyable.
The apostle Paul shared his prisoner-of-war story. It’s a story that is fascinating not just because it has a happy ending, but also because it is a story that each believer in Jesus shares.
We are all prisoners held by our sinful flesh. We know that the sins we commit deserve eternal death, and yet we keep sinning. That’s all that our sinful flesh can do. If our story ended there, we would be filled with fear, hopelessness, and eternal despair.
The story does not end there. We have a Savior who rescued us. Jesus freed us from the bonds of sin. Jesus took the condemnation to hell we deserved and set us free. “Thanks be to Godāthrough Jesus Christ our Lord!”
Our prisoner of war story is certainly a heart-warming one. Our freedom has been guaranteed by Jesus. Praise to our Savior because of the freedom he has won for us!
Prayer:
Thank you, Jesus, for freeing me from my slavery to sin. Help me use my freedom to serve you and the people you bring into my life today. Amen.
Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 3:20
A Better Citizenship – Womenās Devotion
Iām not a soccer fan. I donāt understand the nuances of the game, and itās not a sport Iāll choose to watchāexcept during the Olympics and the World Cup. As long as the United States team is in the tournament, Iāll keep track of how theyāre doing and turn on their matches if I have a chance. Soccer isnāt my sport, but Iām loyal to the US team as an American citizen.
The apostle Paul wouldnāt have found anything wrong with this loyalty. After all, he was a Roman citizen by birth, and he utilized the benefits of this citizenship on at least two occasions (Acts 22:25-29 and 25:10-11). But Paul also knew the benefits of a better citizenship, a heavenly oneāand we share those same benefits.
One day, our countryās division and strife will be replaced by a life of perfect unity with all believers of all time. Our flawed political leaders will be replaced by the perfect Lamb who was slain but now reigns. Our unease about laws and court rulings will be replaced by the certainty of heaven, where we will worship our God in unending peace and joy. We look forward to the day when our faith turns to sight and we see the promised heavenly country with our own eyes.
But what about now? What about our lives today? Yes, our heavenly citizenship is sure. But we are still citizens of this sin-filled world, and we are called to live in ways that honor our heavenly citizenship. The specifics of this will look different for each of us as we live out our daily vocations. There are, however, some common threads.
Pray for the leaders of our country, especially asking for wisdom. Submit to their authority as long as it is not in conflict with Godās commands. Fulfill your civic responsibility by participating in the political process as you are willing and able. And, most importantly, tell those around you about the Savior you eagerly await so that they, too, might one day trade their earthly citizenship for a citizenship in heaven.
Iām not a soccer fan. But itās exciting to talk with others about how well the US team is doing, especially after a particularly good match. May we all share that same sense of excitement in talking with others about a citizenship that offers more benefits than any national allegiance: our heavenly citizenship as daughters of the King.
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for making us citizens of your heavenly kingdom. While we eagerly await the day when we will reap the full benefits of this heavenly citizenship, lead us to be good citizens of our earthly country as well. Give our leaders wisdom to carry out their responsibilities and remind us to always keep them in our prayers. Amen.
[Jesus said] “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” Matthew 10:37-39
Whom Do You Love?
These words of Jesus may be a bit difficult to comprehend, especially if you’ve ever held your own child in your arms. The love that parents have for their child is something that can hardly be described. It’s overwhelming. It’s profound. Many people experience their greatest joy in these moments.
As you consider the words of Jesus once again, ask yourself, “Is my love for my child, parent, siblingā¦greater than my love for Jesus?” If so, Jesus’ words cut deeply. In truth, we are breaking the very First Commandment, “You shall have no other gods,” if we are loving people more than we love Jesus. The results of this are eternally damning.
Let’s consider this from heaven’s eternal viewpoint. Everything we have is a gift from Godāa gift that is best viewed “on loan.” Our parents are his. Our children are his. The material things we have are his, on loan to us for a time. If we love the gifts and not the giver of the gifts, we are idol worshippers.
Jesus had it all, and yet he gave it all up. He is the eternal Son of God who gave up the glory of heaven to come to this world, where he died destituteāall because he loved God above all else. He truly is the only one who has earned the title “worthy.” Yet, by grace alone, through faith alone, he forgives our sins and calls us worthy. He promises that whoever loves him and believes in him HAS eternal life.
What astonishing love Jesus has for us! What an amazing gift he has given to us! In love, he gives us eternal lifeāa gift that far surpasses all material gifts. May his love lead us to love him above all elseāalways.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, help me to love you more and more each day. Thank you for all the gifts you have given me. Amen.
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When my wife and I traveled to the Republic of Korea last month we toured the DMZ. On that tour we had the privilege of meeting a man who had served in the North Korean Army for 10 years. He eventually escaped and defected, making his way to South Korea. He explained the deplorable living conditions and the oppressive nature of the North Korean government. But to see the joy on his face as he described the freedoms he now enjoyed living in South Korea ā a free man!Ā Ā
That freedom he enjoys here in South Korea are because of brave men from our United States military that fought for that freedom. That sacrifice by our US military is not lost in the hearts of South Koreans.Ā Ā
This is the way it has always been in these United States of America. There have always been brave men and women who have been willing to stand up and fight for independence and freedom. And 250 years later, here we are.Ā Ā
This weekend Iād like to challenge you. First, find a copy of the Declaration of Independence. Read it out loud. It will only take you five minutes. If you have additional 40 minutes, Iād encourage you to find a copy of the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights and read them out loud. As you do, pause and think about how the Lord of creation, the Lord of lords and King of kings directs the affairs of the nations, even this one, so that we are where we are right now, in this place in history.Ā Ā
The second thing Iām asking you to do is to read Psalm 33. Iāll focus on verse twelve: āBlessed is the nation whose God is the LORD, the people he chose for his inheritance.ā
Some will look at this passage and say that we as Christians need to make this nation into a Christian nation. That would be incorrect. When we read Scripture we hear God tell us that we are Christians who happen to live here, in the United States of America.Ā Ā
The nation that God speaks of in Psalm 33 is you. You are the nation of God. You are the people of God. You are citizens of his kingdom, bought with his blood, purchased and won by him, and brought into his kingdom. You are the inheritance he has chosen. And just happen to live in this awesome nation where we enjoy all of these freedoms. Ā
Thatās who you are. You are the nation of God. You belong to an eternal nation won by the victory of Christ. You are his inheritance. Ā
Letās celebrate the nation, THE nation, Godās kingdom, in which we live, while we celebrate the 250 years of the United States of America.
Prayer:
Lord of the nations, we bow before you in humility as we celebrate our nationās 250th birthday. Because of your providence and grace the United States of America is a place where your people may live in peace and proclaim your truths publicly without fear of retribution. Grant your wisdom to our leaders so that your Church may flourish and we may carry out our individual vocations with joy. In your name we pray it. Amen.Ā Ā Ā
Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.
[Jesus said] āAnyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it. āAnyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.ā Matthew 10:37-40,42
Who Is Number One?
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
It is an uncomfortable situation. You are with your friends. All of a sudden your time together has turned from harmless fun to harmful wrong. Here are some examples:
Everyone else seems fine with messing with a neighborās lawn decorations and stealing them, but what are you going to do?
Or maybe you are home with your older siblings, and they want to watch a certain movie or play a video game that the folks have said no to. What do you do?
Or maybe everyone in class is laughing at someone, and you know it isn’t kind. What do you do?
Sometimes, following Jesus means making difficult, uncomfortable and unpopular choices. In todayās reading, Jesus says something that sounds truly frightening: He says he didnāt come to bring peace, but a sword.
These are shocking words from the Prince of Peace. Jesus isn’t talking about hurting people with a real sword. He means that following him can sometimes cause disagreements because not everyone believes the same things about God.
But we know this is sometimes part of our lives as Christians.
Jesus is talking about how following him can sometimes cause āsharpā disagreements, even with people we love, like our family or best friends. He wants us to know that being his disciple means he is āNumber Oneā in our livesāeven ahead of our close relationships, favorite hobbies, our sports teams, or our own plans.
Jesus is to be āNumber Oneā in our lives. All the time. In everything. This sounds like a big job, doesn’t it? The truth is, we aren’t very good at putting Jesus first. Certainly not all the time. Sometimes peer pressure gets the better of us. Too often, we just want peace, so we go along with what we know is wrong. But here is the good news: Jesus put you first. Every time. Without fail. Jesus left the perfect peace in heaven and went to the pain and suffering on the cross for you to take away every sin and every time you choose peace over him. Because Jesus loves you perfectly, he gives you the Holy Spirit to help you stand up for what is right.
Now, in faith, we see this in a new light. Jesus tells us, when you put others firstāwhen you help a friend, share your lunch, or tell someone about Jesusāhe says itās like you are doing those things for him! Even something as small as giving a cup of cold water to someone who is thirsty is a big deal to God. Sometimes we think only big things matter. Jesus reminds us that small acts of love matter too.
Live in faith and in the love of the one who put you first; and because Jesus put you first, you can put him first too.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for loving me so much that you put me first and died for my sins. Help me to put you first in my life, even when itās hard or when my friends don’t understand. Give me a heart that is ready to serve others with kindness. 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
Jesus says even a simple cup of cold water can make a difference. Why do small acts of kindness matter so much to God?
Can you think of a small act of kindness someone showed you? How did it make you feel?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
Why is it sometimes hard to put Jesus first when everyone around us is doing something different?
Jesus says that whoever welcomes you, welcomes him. How does it make you feel to know that you represent Jesus to the world?
Questions for Middle School and Above
Jesus says, āWhoever loses their life for my sake will find it.ā How do we ālose our lifeā for Jesus in normal, everyday ways?
If Jesus really is āNumber One,ā what is one thing our family could do this week to show that together?
https://wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/842x347-FamilyDevotion-2026.jpg6601600Pam Johnsonhttps://wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/WELSnet-Logo-2021.pngPam Johnson2026-07-03 04:00:232026-07-02 09:43:47Who Is Number One? – July 3, 2026
[Jesus said] “And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” Matthew 10:42
God Notices
Large gifts or giant acts of kindness are often heralded, praised, and promoted. You have probably read stories about billionaires donating massive amounts of money to a children’s hospital, or a group fundraising campaign raising money to purchase a home for a homeless veteran, or a bunch of high school kids who all chip in to buy the school janitor a new car. Those are the kind of stories that get a lot of press and attention. I love hearing stories like that!
But what about the “little” gifts or the “small” acts of kindness? Do they make a difference? Does anyone notice? Does anyone care? The answer is most certainly yes! Jesus says that when we serve others and do things for others because weāre thankful for what Jesus has done for us, God absolutely cares and God loves to see us do them.
We don’t do those things to earn God’s favor or to pat ourselves on the back. We serve one another because we’re so thankful for what Jesus has done for us. Jesus gave himself up to death to save our lives. And now, we live our lives for his purpose: to serve God and to serve one another. And we can do this even in the “little” things we do each day. One example Jesus mentions is giving a thirsty child something to drink; however, the opportunities are endlessāa kind word to a troubled heart, a prayer for a friend or stranger who is hurting, a sandwich or blanket for someone who is financially struggling, a cup of coffee and our attention to someone who needs someone to listen. We could come up with example after example. The opportunities are endless!
Consider how you can serve Jesus and someone else. Those acts of service aren’t nothing. And God notices them.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for serving me with your sacrifice on the cross so that I would be made one of your own. Give me opportunities this week to serve those you put in my life. Amen.
[Jesus said] “Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. Whoever welcomes a prophet as a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and whoever welcomes a righteous person as a righteous person will receive a righteous person’s reward.” Matthew 10:40-41
Welcoming Jesus
Sometimes when we share the truths of God found in the Bible, we are met with hostility or indifference. But sometimes the opposite happens. Sometimes, when we share a passage from the Bible to comfort or correct bad behavior or offer to pray for a person who is struggling, that act of love and kindness is welcomed with open arms.
And Jesus says something remarkable in our Bible reading for today. He says that when people welcome the words we share from the Bible, they are actually welcoming him.
Let this encourage you as you share his truths with others. When we share the message of the Bible, we are directing hearts to Jesus, who is strong enough to shoulder all of their burdens; Jesus, who loved them so much that he gave up his life for them; Jesus, who had the power to defeat death on their behalf.
Look for opportunities to share your favorite parts of the Bible. Ask your friends and family if there is anything you can pray for. Because when you do those things, you are bringing people closer to Jesus.
May Jesus bless you as you look to share him with others, and may he be welcomed in their hearts!
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for the people in my life who introduced me to you. Bless me this week as I look for people who are hurting or struggling as I share with them your amazing power and love. Amen.
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But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. In the sight of God, who gives life to everything, and of Christ Jesus, who while testifying before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you to keep this command without spot or blame until the appearing of our Lord Jesus Christ, which God will bring about in his own timeāGod, the blessed and only Ruler, the King of kings and Lord of lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and might forever. Amen. 1 Timothy 6:11-16
Ready, Set, Run!
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
It is so simple. One of the first sports anyone plays. At the playground, in the backyard, over at the neighborhood park. āIāll race you! Ready, set, go!ā Some people, many adults, continue to play this game and are willing to pay money to race with hundreds and thousands of people for distances far longer than to the swing set or across the park. In any race of any distance, to win, you gotta run fast, keep your eyes on the goal and never give upāeven when youāre tired.
In his first letter to Timothy, the apostle Paul tells us to āfleeā from things like greed and selfishness. The word āfleeā means to run away as fast as you can. If you saw a skunk with its tail up or a swarm of angry bees coming your way, you probably wouldn’t walk awayāyou’d run!
But Paul doesn’t just want us to run away from bad things; he wants us to run toward the good stuff. He tells us to pursue things like righteousness, godliness, and love. The word āpursueā means to chase after something. So, Paul is saying, āRun away from sin, and run toward the things God loves.ā
Sometimes, living as a Christian can feel like a long race. We know how hard it is to be kind and loving when someone seems to be mean to you. We know the struggle of remaining patient when we really want something right now. And these struggles are part of every day, far more than just a few times in our day. Paul calls this the āgood fight of the faith.ā Itās a fight because our sinful nature always wants us to go the wrong way or simply give up.
But here is the best part: You are never running this race alone. God has promised to be with us to strengthen us and help us. We know how hard it can be to tell the truth when a lie seems easier. We know how hard it can be to share when we want something all for ourselves. When it comes to winning the prize, God has already given you the prize! Jesusā resurrection means all our enemies have been defeated. He has won the victory over sin, death, and the devil. Because of him, your sins are forgiven, and you have the gift of eternal life. The victory is yours.
Imagine entering a race and finding out that the prize already belongs to you before the race even starts. That’s what Jesus has done for us. We don’t run so that God will love us. We run because he already loves us and has already saved us.
When you feel tired or distracted, look at Jesus. Remember his promises from favorite Bible passages. Remember the good news of great joy you heard in worship this last week. Jesus is the āKing of kings and Lord of lords.ā He gives you the strength to keep running, to keep loving others, and to keep āfighting the good fightā until the day we stand in victory with him in heaven.
So today . . . Ready. Set. Run! Run away from sin and run toward Jesus!
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for winning the victory for me through Jesus. Help me to run away from things that hurt others and run toward the things that please you. Give me strength to continue fighting the good fight of faith today. 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 does it mean āto fleeā from something?
What does it mean āto pursueā something?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
Paul calls living our faith a fight. Is it a fight against someone else or something else? Who or what are we fighting?
Even in a large race usually only a few top finishers receive a prize. How does knowing Jesus has already won the prize make our days easier when things are hard?
Questions for Middle School and Above
Take some time to discuss the difference between righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness. Which is easiest to understand? Which one is hardest?
King of kings and Lord of lords. The almighty God is on our side and he deeply loves us. How does this help us in the way we act in the constant fight of faith?
[Jesus said] “Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” Matthew 10:38-39
Take up Your Cross
In Jesus’ day, you wouldn’t find people wearing cross necklaces or hanging a cross to decorate their homes. The cross was an instrument of death. So I can only imagine the puzzled looks on the faces of the people who first heard this. “Take up a cross? Why would I do that? Are you crazy, Jesus?”
No, Jesus wasn’t crazy. He was telling his disciples, and us for that matter, that as we follow him, we say ‘no’ to the desires of our sinful self. It means denying our natural desire to be in control, to protect our comfort, reputation, or ambitions. Instead, we surrender everything to him.
This is hard for us to hear at times. Our natural way of thinking is to find our life on our own termsābuilding security through money, success, or pleasure. Our natural way of thinking is to make choices that prioritize self. But Jesus says that way of life, that path, only leads to eternal loss.
Rather, “whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” To clarify, this is not a call to destroy ourselves or seek suffering for its own sake. Rather, it is a command to suffer whatever is necessary in order to follow Jesus. Even if it means suffering death itself, it is worth it, because Jesus gives his followers eternal life.
Because Jesus gave himself up for us, we are declared worthy and made perfect before God. So, take up your cross and follow him! Deny your selfish desires and follow Jesus as he leads you closer to God and to your home with him in heaven.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, you took up the cross I deserved and lost your life to save mine. Forgive me for the times I have tried to save my own life and refuse to follow you. Help me daily deny myself, take up my cross, and follow you. Amen.
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[Jesus said] “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.” Matthew 10:37
My First Love
I have a great relationship with my family. My parents cared dearly for my siblings and me. We all still get along and love getting together. I have a wonderful wife whom I treasure, and she feels the same way about me. I cherish my children. They fill my heart with so much joy. I love my family! There isnāt much I wouldnāt do for them!
If you have a family whom you love and they love you as well, reading Jesus’ words might be tough to hear. After all, many people would say that family comes first. However, that’s not what Jesus says. To be clear, Jesus isn’t dismissing or diminishing the love of parents, spouses, or children. Those are most certainly great gifts from God. But he does say that our love for him needs to come first. Why? Because he deserves it. He deserves to be our first love because Jesus has done more for us than anyone ever could. Yes, parents care for their children when they’re sick and make sure that their kids have a place to sleep and food to eat. But Jesus has defeated death for us. Jesus has built a home in heaven. Yes, spouses sacrifice for each other, but Jesus sacrificed himself by suffering the hell our sins deserve. Jesus has paid for all of your wrongs and failures. Jesus has done more for you than anyone else.
I hope that God has blessed you with a family you love and who loves you. But even if that isn’t the case, Jesus loves you more than you could imagine. No matter what you have done, no matter how you have lived, no matter how awful and terrible you think you are, Jesus loves you, Jesus has forgiven you, and Jesus has made you a part of his family.
Prayer:
Dear Jesus, you are worthy of my highest love and loyalty. Forgive me for the times I have placed family and friends above you. Through your Word, deepen my love for you. Help me to love my family without making them idols. Amen.
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He said to Aaron, āWhat did these people do to you, that you led them into such great sin?ā āDo not be angry, my lord,ā Aaron answered. āYou know how prone these people are to evil. They said to me, āMake us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we donāt know what has happened to him.ā So I told them, āWhoever has any gold jewelry, take it off.ā Then they gave me the gold, and I threw it into the fire, and out came this calf!ā Moses saw that the people were running wild and that Aaron had let them get out of control and so become a laughingstock to their enemies. So he stood at the entrance to the camp and said, āWhoever is for the LORD, come to me.ā And all the Levites rallied to him. Exodus 32:21-26
The Worldās Worst Excuse
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Have you ever been caught doing something wrong and tried to come up with an excuse really fast? Maybe a broken lamp. A missing cookie. A messy bedroom. Sometimes when we know we did something wrong, we try to think of a reason why it wasn’t really our fault.
Back when schoolwork was done in notebooks and worksheets, the excuse frequently made fun of was the silly, sad lie claiming, āMy dog ate my homework.ā Most people knew that excuse wasn’t true. But excuses aren’t just for homework. We all make excuses when we don’t want to admit we did something wrong.
When we are young, we may not realize just how wrong our excuses sound. As we age, maybe we get a little wiser in the ways of this sinful world, but still our excuses all fall flat. Because we have a sinful nature, we face a lifetime of struggle with our natural tendency to excuse or minimize our sins. āIt wasnāt me. She started it.ā āEverybody else was doing it.ā āI didnāt mean to.ā
How easily these excuses still come to us.
Consider what took place in Exodus 32. Moses came down the mountain with two stone tablets engraved by God himself. On them were written the Ten Commandments. God told Moses what the children of Israel had done while he was meeting with God. The children of Israel had made a golden calf and worshipped it as if the idol had led them out of Egypt.
That sin, like all our sin, is obvious to our all-knowing God. God had done so much for his people, so they would know he loved them and would protect them: the plagues, the Passover, the parting of the sea, a visible presence in cloud by day and fire by night. But still they built an idol and worshiped it. When caught in this sin, how does Aaron, the brother of Moses respond? He blamed others. He minimized the sin and came up with the sad, silly lie: āI threw it in the fire and out came this calf!ā
Can you imagine that? Aaron wanted Moses to believe that he tossed some gold into a fire andāpoof!āa golden calf just appeared all by itself. It was a pretty ridiculous excuse.
Moses knew from his own life how dangerous it is to make excuses and minimize sin. When the people sinnedāand when we sināGod didn’t stop being their God. Instead of answering our excuses, God, in love, gave us the only answer for our sin. God used Moses to call them back. God had promised the people the perfect substitute who would shed his blood so Godās people would go free. Jesus came to be the only answer for our sin. He is our sinless sacrifice. We donāt need excuses, but honesty. Confess our sins and hear Godās forgiveness for us in Jesus. Share it and speak it to one another.
No excuses, just honesty from our holy and loving God.
Prayer:
We thank you, dear God, for the gift of forgiveness we need today and every day. Give us the honesty to confess our sins to you who know them and the confidence to trust our forgiveness by your mercy and grace. 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
When is the last time you heard the words, āI forgive youā?
When is the last time you said the words, āI forgive youā?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
Why can it sometimes be hard to say, āI was wrongā or āI’m sorryā? What are some of the ways we are reminded of Godās forgiveness in our worship service?
Is the fact that God knows all things about us sometimes scary, sometimes comforting, or both? Why?
Questions for Middle School and Above
Can you recall and talk about with the whole family when being honest and admitting fault right away would have been far better than making excuses?
God had shown his love in vivid ways to the children of Israel. What are some of the ways you know God has shown his love to you that you can be sure of Godās forgiveness?
[Jesus said] “Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn, ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-lawāa man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.ā” Matthew 10:34-36
Peace
A few years ago, I was sitting in a doctor’s office. My wife was holding our toddler, pregnant with our second child. That’s when the doctor hit me with it: “You have cancer.” Ugh! What a blow! However, I am so thankful that my doctor told me. Wouldn’t you want that as well?! Who would want a doctor who thought, ‘I really don’t want to ruin anyone’s day, so I’m not going to tell my patients what’s wrong’? No one!
Sometimes I think of that day when I’m telling people the truth of God’s Word. People are spiritually sick, and they do things that God doesn’t like. And sometimes when I’ve told them that, it feels like I’m punching them in the gut, and they respond as if I did. They get angry. They yell.
In today’s Bible verse, Jesus is describing the reality of what sometimes happens when God’s Word is explained to people. Sometimes, they get upset because God is telling them that some of their behaviors, thoughts, or feelings are wrong. And sometimes this even happens with friends or family.
But, my friend, it is so necessary for us to speak up and stand on God’s truth. Because only after someone comes to understand the sickness of their soul can they appreciate the amazing cure Jesus brings! Jesus was rejected and condemned to death on a cross so that all the wrongs of humanity would be forgiven and fixed. And that is the peace that only Jesus can bring.
God bless you as you look to share that peace with others!
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, forgive me when I seek harmony with family and friends more than faithfulness to you. Strengthen me to confess you boldly, even when it divides. Soften the hearts of those with whom I share your Word that they might celebrate your forgiveness. Amen.
One key truth: We can always trust Godās loving plans for us.
But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 1 Timothy 6:11-12
Godās Plans are Bigger and Better
What do you love? I suppose you might have a few things come to mind right away. Your family… Chick-Fil-A… Sour Patch candies… PS5 with the boys… hanging out with friends… that one show you canāt stop binge-watching… doomscrolling for hours on your phone.
Your answers would probably change drastically though if the question was slightly different: What does your sinful nature love? Those are things we arenāt so eager to shareāthings often so embarrassing and shameful that we would hate for anyone ever to know what we sinfully love deep down inside our hearts.
Such is the problem with our sinful nature. It wants to grab onto and love anything that is not God. In selfish love for āme,ā my sinful nature wants to indulge in my wants, my greed, my lust, my desires, my anger. And then, my sinful nature will even take good things (like some of the things in the first paragraph) and turn them into āgod thingsā as we obsess about them and make them more important than God. For example, how easy is it to spend an hour on TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, Instagram, or gaming without even realizing itābut five minutes in God’s Word feels long? You might also think about how often a good thingālike your phoneāleads you into sinful things.
The apostle Paulās words at the end of his first letter to young pastor Timothy were important for him then, and they are important for us now! He reminds us that as Godās people, we should flee from all these things. Instead of wasting time on meaningless things or indulging in sinful things, we should instead āpursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.ā
Easier said than done, right?
If we’re honest, some days it feels impossible. We know what God wants. We even want to do it. But then temptation shows up again.
Thankfully we have a Savior who came here to this world and did flee from all temptation and sin. Not only that, he crushed Satan on the cross as he took on himself our sins and paid for all that we have done. He wiped our slate clean and freed us from death and hell when he rose from the dead. He already won the victory for us!
So yes, it will be tough to battle our sinful nature. But when Paul tells us to āfight the good fightā and ātake hold of the eternal life to which you were called,ā we can be thankful that we arenāt doing it alone. Jesus who won the fight is with us every step of the way to give us strength to overcome, and Jesus who called us to heaven will walk with us to that eternal home.
Enjoy your good things. Have fun with friends and family. Waste an hour here or there on a video game. Devour a handful of Sour Patch while you watch videos of squirrels waterskiing. But as you enjoy what is good, be sure to love God the most. Because when God is first, all those other good gifts find their proper place. Pursuing him, his Word, and his ways will always lead to the greatest blessings and the most strength to fight the good fight of faith.
Prayer:
Lord, I confess that often my sinful heart wanders. It gravitates to things that donāt have much spiritual value, and it indulges in things that are sinful. Help me to fight the good fight of faith by pursuing righteous things. Guide me with your Word to see what those things are and strengthen me in your grace to live a life for you. Amen.
Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.
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[Jesus said] “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown him before my Father in heaven. Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to turn ‘a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-lawāa man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.'” Matthew 10:32-36
Peace and Hostility
When Jesus was born, angels from heaven sang, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests” (Luke 2:14). Jesus came to establish peace between God and all people by taking the guilt of their sin on himself and suffering their death penalty for sin. Because of Jesus, we are free from the guilt and punishment of our sin. Washed clean by the blood of Jesus, we have peace with God. That’s why Isaiah the prophet declared that Jesus is the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6).
Yet Jesus said, “I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” And he quoted from the prophet Micah that his coming would cause hostility even among family members (Micah 7:6).
Jesus was the bringer of peace and at the same time the bringer of hostility. He brought peace between us and the Fatherāa peace that is founded on the forgiveness of sins and looks forward confidently to the hope of heaven. But in our lives now in this world, the message about Jesus creates difficulty, strife and pain for Christians. There are those, maybe even some who are close to us, who reject the way of salvation through Jesus. They oppose Christ and as a result oppose what we believe and live for.
As difficult as it sometimes is to live our faith and confess Jesus, God can use our testimony to turn the hearts of people, even those who silently or loudly oppose us. Keep praying for them and as you have opportunity talk with them about Jesus that he is their Savior, too.
Prayer:
Jesus, I praise you for the peace that you give me. Help me to share that peace with others even when it is difficult. Amen.
https://wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/842x347-DailyDevotions-2026-updated.jpg347842welshttps://wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/WELSnet-Logo-2021.pngwels2026-06-28 00:30:582026-06-26 08:31:32Peace and Hostility – June 28, 2026
Sing to the LORD! Give praise to the LORD! He rescues the life of the needy from the hands of the wicked. Jeremiah 20:13
It’s Time to Sing!
Do you like to sing? Perhaps you enjoy singing because you are a gifted singer, and people around you enjoy hearing you sing. Or perhaps you enjoy singing but can’t carry a tune. So, you keep your singing to yourself and save it for the shower. Either wayāwhether you are a gifted singer or not, today’s Bible reading encourages you to sing. Sing to the Lord because you have been rescued.
You’ve been rescued from all of your spiritual enemiesāthe devil, the sinful world, and your sinful nature. All three try to drag you from the God who loves you to the eternal separation from him that your sins deserve.
Think for a moment what your eternity would be like if the Lord hadn’t stepped in and rescued you? You would spend this life guilt-ridden and sure of God’s anger at your sins against him. And you would spend eternity separated from the one true God and all of his love and blessings. It’s terrifying to contemplate.
But, you have been rescued from this fate by the one called SaviorāJesus Christ. You are fully forgiven and adopted into God’s family. You have the promise of his love and care here and now, as well as his promise of eternal life with him when this life comes to its close.
No wonder Jeremiah encourages us to sing to the Lord! We have every reason to celebrate. So, whether you can carry a tune or not, sing to the Lord!
Prayer:
Lord, may my life be a song of praise to you, for you alone are my Savior. Amen.
https://wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/842x347-DailyDevotions-2026-updated.jpg347842welshttps://wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/WELSnet-Logo-2021.pngwels2026-06-27 00:30:042026-06-26 14:37:09It’s Time to Sing! – June 27, 2026
[Jesus said] Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Fatherās care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So donāt be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. āWhoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But whoever disowns me before others, I will disown before my Father in heaven. Matthew 10:29-33
Safe in Godās Care
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Imagine you saw a job description that read something like this:
WANTED: Someone willing to work long hours for little pay. You wonāt see your family as much. Some people wonāt like you. Some may even be angry with you. You might have to leave your home and travel to new places. Your job will never end.
Would you want that job? That doesnāt sound very exciting, does it?
Itās not so different from what Jesus told his disciples when he sent them out to tell others about him. Jesus wanted them to know that sharing God’s Word would not always be easy. And Jesus doesn’t just send pastors and missionaries. He sends all of us to tell others about him. Sometimes people don’t want to hear about Jesus. Sometimes they disagree with what God says. Sometimes they may even make fun of Christians.
That happened to Jesusā disciples. All of them suffered. Most of them gave their lives for their faith because they shared the good news about Jesus. But Jesus didn’t tell those things to scare them. He told them something better. Jesus said: “Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care” (verse 29).
Sparrows are tiny birds. Most people barely notice them. But God notices every single one. “Even the very hairs of your head are all numbered” (verse 30). God knows everything about you. He knows your name. He knows your thoughts. He knows your joys and your fears. And because he loves you so much, Jesus says: “Don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows” (verse 31). What a promise! When Jesus sends us to share our faith, he doesn’t send us alone. He walks beside us. He watches over us. He cares for us every day.
So, imagine reading this instead:
WANTED: Someone to see God’s love every day. You’ll walk side-by-side with a Savior who never leaves you. There will be challenges, but you never need to be afraid. God will care for you so closely that he even knows how many hairs are on your head. And one day you’ll live with him forever in heaven.
You don’t have to imagine it. That’s exactly the life Jesus has given you.
Prayer:
Jesus, help me see the beautiful, challenging, wonderful, grace-filled life youāve called me to, and let me speak your Word faithfully here until you bring me faithfully home to heaven. 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 you think Jesus talked about sparrows?
What does it mean that God knows even how many hairs are on your head?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
Why can you be brave when you talk about Jesus or share your faith?
Who is someone you know that shares Jesus with others? Pray for them together.
Questions for Middle School and Above
Jesus says that following him can sometimes be hard. If nobody has ever given you a hard time because you’re a Christian, does that mean you aren’t sharing your faith well? Why or why not?
What does Jesus promise to do for those who acknowledge him before others? (see verse 32)
https://wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/700x411-FamilyDevotions2.jpg400711Pam Johnsonhttps://wels.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/WELSnet-Logo-2021.pngPam Johnson2026-06-26 04:00:032026-06-19 14:14:38Safe in Godās Care – June 26, 2026
Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that dayāand not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8
The Crown That Opens Heaven
A crown can open doors. If you wear the right crown, guards step aside. Palace doors swing open. You are welcomed into rooms where ordinary people cannot go. A royal crown gives access, honor, and privilege. But every earthly crown fades. It can be stolen, tarnished, or passed to someone else.
The apostle Paul looked forward to a better crown. Near the end of his life, he wrote about “the crown of righteousness” waiting for him. This was not a crown Paul had earned by being good enough. It was not the reward for a life without failure or sin. It was a crown given by “the Lord, the righteous Judge.”
That Judge is Jesus. And before Jesus gave his people a crown of righteousness, he first wore a crown of thorns.
He wore that painful crown as he suffered for our sins. He stood in our place. He carried our guilt. He gave his perfect life for our imperfect lives. Then he rose from the dead, proving that sin has been paid for and heaven has been opened.
So, do not be afraid of the sins from your past. Jesus has forgiven them. You do not need to work harder or do more to earn a place in heaven. Jesus has already won it for you.
The crown Jesus gives is better than any royal crown. It gives access not just to a palace, but to the throne room of heaven. It is the gift of righteousness, Jesus’ righteousness, placed on you by grace.
So, we long for his appearing. We look forward to the day Jesus comes again, not with fear, but with confidence and joy. The righteous Judge is also your Savior. And he has a crown waiting for you.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for wearing a crown of thorns to win for me the crown of righteousness. Take away my fear, forgive my sins, and help me long for the day when you bring me into the joy of heaven. Amen.
[Jesus said] “Brother will betray brother to death, and a father his child; children will rebel against their parents and have them put to death. You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved . . . Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.” Matthew 10:21-22,32
When Confessing Christ Costs You
On June 25, 1530, Lutheran princes and representatives stood before Emperor Charles V in the city of Augsburg in Germany and presented a confession of their faith. The emperor was among the most powerful rulers in the world. The pressure to stay quiet, compromise, or soften the truth was enormous. But they confessed Christ.
One of the signers was John Frederick of Saxony. A few years later, Emperor Charles V went to war against the Lutheran princes in an effort to force them back into submission. John Frederick’s own cousin Maurice of Saxony sided with the emperor and invaded John Frederick’s territory. John Frederick was eventually defeated, captured, sentenced to death, and stripped of his royal title.
The details of history are complicated. The pain was not. Confessing Christ had cost him dearly, even within his own family.
Jesus had warned his disciples that this could happen. “Brother will betray brother to death,” he said. “You will be hated by everyone because of me.” Following Jesus would not always bring peace with the people closest to them. Sometimes it would bring division, rejection, and loss.
But Jesus also gave a promise: “Whoever acknowledges me before others, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven.” That promise gives courage.
You may never stand before an emperor. You may never lose lands or titles for confessing Christ. But you will have moments when faithfulness costs you something. It may cost approval. It may strain a relationship. It may make you feel alone. In those moments, remember who stands with you.
Jesus confessed you first. He claimed you as his own. He carried your sins to the cross. He rose from the dead. He speaks for you before the Father. So, confess him. Speak the truth humbly. Speak it lovingly. Speak it with confidence. The Savior you confess is the Savior who confesses you.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for confessing me before your Father. Give me courage to confess you before others, even when it costs me. Amen.
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourageāwith great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that dayāand not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:2-4,7-8
Donāt Scratch the Itch!
In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
A man went to the doctor because his ear hurt badly. But the pain wasnāt even the worst partāthe itching was! As the doctor examined him, he discovered something awful: there were bugs inside the manās ear. While the man was sleeping, a fly had laid eggs there. That sounds disgusting, doesnāt it? But what made the problem even worse was this: every time the man scratched his itchy ear, he pushed the bugs farther inside. Scratching the itch only made the problem worse.
When something itches, we really want to scratch it. But Paul says the same thing can happen with Godās Word. Paul wrote a letter to a young pastor named Timothy, warning him that people would someday have āitching ears.ā Paul didnāt mean peopleās ears would actually itch. He meant people would look for teachers and pastors who would tell them exactly what they wanted to hear. Maybe someone wants to hear that their sins are ānot a big deal.ā Maybe they want to hear that it doesnāt matter what you believe, as long as you believe something. Maybe they want someone to tell them they never need to forgive others or help hurting people. Paul says people sometimes look for āitch-scratchersāāteachers who make them feel good instead of telling them Godās truth. But scratching an itch doesnāt heal the problem. It only makes it worse.
We all have āitches.ā There are parts of Godās Word that are hard for us to hear. Sometimes God tells us to confess sins we donāt want to admit. Sometimes he tells us to forgive someone when we donāt want to. Sometimes he tells us to love people who are difficult to love.
But God doesnāt want teachers who simply scratch our itchy ears. He gives us pastors, teachers, parents, and Christian friends who tell us the truthāeven when itās hard to hear. Why? Because God loves us too much to leave us trapped in sin.
May God give us preachers, not āitch-scratchers!ā May they rebuke us when we need it, so our sins donāt destroy our faith, and may they always point us to the great gift of salvation we have in Jesus. That truth may not scratch our itchābut it heals our hearts, opens our ears to truth, and someday, will place a crown of eternal life on our heads!
Prayer:
When my ears itch, O Lord, I want someone to scratch them. Instead, bless me with people who will tell me your true Word. Instead of scratching my itch, heal my heart. 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
In todayās devotion, a manās ear was hurting horribly. Why did scratching make the problem worse?
Paul talked about āitching ears.ā What do you think that means?
Questions for Elementary Age Children
God says people wonāt āput up with sound doctrine.ā That means they donāt want to hear what God really says. Why do people sometimes want teachers to tell them only what they want to hear?
Paul said a ācrown of righteousnessā was waiting for him. What wonderful gift was Paul talking about?
Questions for Middle School and Above
What are some things God says in the Bible that can be hard for us to hear?
When we look for a church, what is the MOST important thing we should look for?
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