What God Has Joined Together – October 9, 2024

[Jesus said] “At the beginning of creation God ‘made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
Mark 10:6-9

What God Has Joined Together

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Daily Devotion – October 9, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 10:6-9

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I am only middle-aged, but I have already owned nine different cars, sixteen different cell phones, and lived in seven different cities. It seems there isn’t much in this world that is forever, and the only constant is change.

In our early years, our family and home consist of our parents and siblings. We live in their house and have little say in whom we live with. The family we are given is the family we have. However, marriage brings about a big change, and the person who is our new family is a person of our choosing.

Getting married isn’t the end of change, either. We continue to change jobs, houses, hobbies, and interests. We experience changes in our health and finances. Things will come and go, and there are very few things that we will be united to our whole life.

Because so much of life comes and goes, there is beauty and goodness in a husband and wife united for a lifetime. As things fade away and are replaced by the new, it is good to have a spouse and their love as a constant. As the common wedding vows say, “for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health” husband and wife are joined together.

We may be separated from happiness, health, or finances, but let no one separate what God has joined together.

Prayer:
Gracious Lord, strengthen the love and commitment of husbands and wives. In a world full of change, let no one separate those who have been joined together as one flesh. 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.

Not Doing but Done – October 8, 2024

[Jesus] said to them “Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly, I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.”
Mark 10:14,15

Not Doing but Done

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Daily Devotion – October 8, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 10:14,15

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There are some things children shouldn’t do because they just are too young and too little. Ask a young child to bake a cake from scratch, and you are probably in for a mess and not a cake. Ask a child to clean out the gutters, and there is bound to be an accident. Have a child put on the spare tire and I am willing to bet he won’t even get a single lug nut off, and you will be on the side of the road for a long time.

However, there are some things young children can be really good at, even babies. A young child can cry out in need. A young child can receive love. A young child can be cared for and looked after. Young children are not very good at doing, but they are good at receiving.

It is for these reasons Jesus invites the young children to him without hindrance. Even more than just inviting them, Jesus holds them up as models to everyone. It is not because they can do much but because they need much. “Everyone who does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it.” With this stern yet beautiful invitation, Jesus invites us to lay down our greatest accomplishments and simply trust in him. Through trust, we receive the many blessings offered to us in the kingdom of God.

It is this act of simply receiving gifts that we get worse at as we get older. As we gain abilities, we want to show them off. We want to do more and show that we deserve things. However, our salvation is never something we can do; it must be done for us. As a child cries out and simply receives, may we cry out to God and receive his mercy, love, and forgiveness.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, give me a child-like faith that I would not work for my salvation but receive it only as a gift. 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.

Better Together – October 7, 2024

Then the LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
Genesis 2:18

Better Together

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Daily Devotion – October 7, 2024

Devotion based on Genesis 2:18

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The high school dropout rate in parts of Appalachia during the 1980s was regularly as high as 35 percent. To help decrease that rate Tennessee’s own Dolly Parton began a program where she would give each graduating senior $500.

There was a catch. Students were paired with a buddy, and if either one of the pair did not graduate, neither would receive the money. This buddy system had the intended effect, and through encouragement and accountability, the dropout rate went from 35 percent to 6 percent in just a few years. This buddy system became one of the most successful and speedy educational success stories in the entire country.

After God created the first man he said, “It is not good for man to be alone.”

There are many ways in which God brings people together, so they are not alone. It was part of God’s good design that we have others for encouragement and accountability. He knew that we would see more blessings through this encouragement and accountability than if we were alone. The joyful times would be more joyful, and the sad times would be less sad if we had others to share life with. This can be close friends and neighbors, or it can be family of all types.

God’s answer to Adam’s aloneness in Genesis chapter 2 was to give him his wife, Eve, and to institute marriage. In marriage, we are paired with someone “until death do us part.” Marriage gives us a special avenue to bring accountability and encouragement to our lives. God gives the blessings of togetherness and faithfulness, intimacy and support, children, and stability through his gift of marriage. More than any other human relationship, marriage provides a closeness to another and blessings and opportunities to serve.

It is not good for us to be alone, so God gave us one another so that things would be better together.

Prayer:
Lord, whether we are married or single, part of a large family or small, remind us that we are better together. Strengthen all relationships so that we may encourage one another and be accountable to one another on the way that leads to eternal 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.

Marriage is a Gift of God – October 6, 2024

The LORD God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him.”
Genesis 2:18

Marriage is a Gift of God

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Daily Devotion – October 6, 2024

Devotion based on Genesis 2:18

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God provided a beautiful home for the first man he created to live on earth. It was a wonderful garden—a paradise! There were varieties of plants and an abundance of animals. But there was one thing that was “not good.” The man was alone. He observed that the animals had mates, but he had none. In the midst of all the beautiful perfection of his environment, he needed to have someone with whom he could closely share his life.

God answered the man’s need. He created another person—a very special person—a woman and brought her to the man. The man loved her, and they joined together in a special union that God intended. In marriage they lived as husband and wife.

The first marriage was God’s plan to bring blessing to the man and the woman. That marriage is important because it is God’s pattern for humanity. God established marriage as a lifelong union of one man and one woman. Though sin has brought many difficulties into marital relationships, God still blesses couples through marriage as he established it.

If you are a husband or wife, love your spouse and live together faithfully in your marriage. If you are single, honor the will of God regarding the union of marriage. God established his plan for marriage because he loves us and desires to bless our lives through it. Marriage is a gift of God to be respected and enjoyed.

Prayer:
Lord God, praise to you for establishing the union of marriage. Help me to honor this wonderful gift and live according to your will. 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.

Wash Your Hands- October 5, 2024

Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
James 4:8

Wash Your Hands

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Daily Devotion – October 5, 2024

Devotion based on James 4:8

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A hospital in our area has a special unit for premature babies. Before you enter this unit, there is a washing station. Above the washing station, there is a sign for everyone to see. The sign says: “If you could see the germs, you’d wash your hands.”

That sign says a great deal in just a few words. It declares that if you and I could only see the masses of dangerous germs crawling over our hands, we’d recognize what deadly business these germs can be and do what’s necessary to wash them away.

Sin can be like that. Our noses can get so used to the stench of our sinful habits that we can’t even smell them anymore. Our ears can get so used to the ungodly screech of our sinful thoughts that we can’t even hear them anymore. And our eyes can grow so accustomed to the bacterium of sin crawling over us and through us that we can’t even see it anymore.

“Wash your hands, you sinners,” James tells us. But how? And with what?

When it comes to your sin and mine, the answer is not some antiseptic that squirts out of a hospital dispenser. The answer is blood, the blood of the Son of God.

Jesus saw our filthy, sinful hands. He knew we were helpless to wash them clean. And, so, he did what we needed him to do. He sacrificed himself; he shed his blood to wash away our sins. His blood cleanses us. It makes your life and mine fresh and forgiven, clean and new.

So, let’s wash our hands every day. Wash them in the cleansing blood of our Savior, for “the blood of Jesus, God’s Son, purifies us of all sin” (1 John 1:7).

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, it is your blood that washes me clean. Move me by your Spirit to come to you every day. 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.

The Irony of Judging Others – October 4, 2024

Brothers and sisters, do not slander one another. Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it. There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy. But you—who are you to judge your neighbor?
James 4:11,12

The Irony of Judging Others

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Daily Devotion – October 4, 2024

Devotion based on James 4:11,12

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Jesus could not have been clearer. He said, “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned” (Luke 6:37). Those instructions were undoubtedly a regular part of our Savior’s preaching and teaching. And why? Because human beings are so naturally and sinfully quick to judge others. It’s easy for us to spot a sinner… until we’re standing in front of a mirror. We tend to overlook our own spiritual flaws because we’re so laser-focused on the sins of others.

And what’s worse, after we notice our neighbor’s sins, what’s the next thing we’re likely to do? Talk about it to someone else. God calls that slander, even if what we are saying about someone is 100 percent true, and through the pen of Saint James, he forbids it. “Brother and sisters, do not slander one another.”

Judging others is truly ironic because by gleefully pointing out the sins of others, you’re sinning yourself. James explained, “Anyone who speaks against a brother or sister or judges them speaks against the law and judges it. When you judge the law, you are not keeping it, but sitting in judgment on it.” What are you doing when you stand in judgment over your neighbor? You’re suggesting that you’re in a better position to be your neighbor’s judge than God is. You’re attempting to push God off his judgment seat in order to take his place. It’s a classic symptom of arrogant, sinful, and deadly pride.

But as James reminds us, “There is only one Lawgiver and Judge, the one who is able to save and destroy.” So, let’s leave the judging to Jesus. After all, “Who are you to judge your neighbor?” Jesus has the job of judging all people under control, and his judgments are perfect.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, save me from the sin of arrogantly and lovelessly judging others. 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.

Don’t Hold in Your Sin – October 3, 2024

Grieve, mourn and wail. Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.
James 4:9,10

Don’t Hold in Your Sin

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Daily Devotion – October 3, 2024

Devotion based on James 4:9,10

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Some of the best advice a person can receive when going through the grieving process is this: “You need to cry.” Some people will claim that they’re not “criers,” but it’s pretty clear that while living in this fallen world, there are times when crying is appropriate. Even Jesus cried when he went to the tomb of his friend Lazarus and when he wrestled in prayer with his heavenly Father over the painful mission he had been sent to accomplish by his death on the cross. So, if Jesus didn’t hold it in, we shouldn’t either. Crying is very much a part of the grieving process, so don’t cover it up. Let it rip. It’s healthy!

That’s also good advice when it comes to our sin. We tend to hide it, to cover it up. But that’s not healthy. In fact, it’s deadly. In Psalm 32, King David described the acute suffering he brought on himself by attempting to cover up his transgressions. It wasn’t a pretty picture. He confessed to the Lord, “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. For day and night your hand was heavy on me; my strength was sapped as in the heat of summer.” But what was David finally prompted to do? To let it go. “Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin.” His heartfelt confession and grief over his sin resulted in forgiveness, peace, and restoration.

Saint James urges us to take this same approach toward our own sin. “Grieve, mourn and wail,” he wrote. “Change your laughter to mourning and your joy to gloom. Humble yourselves before the Lord.” And why? Because when we do, the Lord “will lift (us) up” with his powerful and forgiving arms.

You can’t fix your sin by holding it in and covering it up. But Jesus can, and he does. So it’s always best to let it go.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, help me to unburden my heart of sin’s baggage, and lift me up with your forgiving love. 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.

Run to Jesus – October 2, 2024

Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
James 4:8

Run to Jesus

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Daily Devotion – October 2, 2024

Devotion based on James 4:8

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If your clothes caught on fire, it might be your first instinct to run. But as a child, you probably received the same instruction I received if faced with this scenario. I was told to stop, drop, and roll. If your clothes are on fire, running away won’t do any good; it will simply fan the flames. But stopping, dropping, and rolling are meant to snuff the fire out by eliminating the fire’s air supply. It might seem counterintuitive not to run, but it’s the right thing to do.

When Adam and Eve fell into sin, their first instinct was to run. Moses tells us that when the Lord God came to pay a visit to the Garden of Eden, the two occupants of that former Paradise didn’t come running to greet God; they hid from him. Their reason for doing so was simple and straightforward: they had done the very thing that God had told them not to do, and now they were dreading the eternal consequences: death itself!

But rather than leaving them in the misery of their guilt and sin, what did our gracious heavenly Father do? He called those scared sinners to his side. And when they came near to him, what did he do? He came near to them with the promise of a Savior. Yes, they would have to endure some earthly consequences for their sin, but God would send a unique offspring of the woman—his own Son, Jesus—to crush the devil’s head and defeat the eternal consequences of sin once and for all.

What does that important biblical account teach us? That when we find ourselves engulfed in sin, as tempted as we might be to run from God, we should run toward him. No, don’t stop, drop, and roll. Run to the open and forgiving arms of Jesus, who alone can heal the wounds of our sin with the cooling balm that flows from the wounds he willingly endured for us on the cross. And it’s in his wounds where we can wash our hands and purify our hearts forever.

Prayer:
Jesus, teach me to flee to you with my every sin to find forgiveness, peace, and life everlasting. 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.

Resisting the Devil – October 1, 2024

Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.
James 4:7

Resisting the Devil

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Daily Devotion – October 1, 2024

Devotion based on James 4:7

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Martin Luther loved to mock the devil. That especially became the case after he fully realized just how certain and sure Jesus’ love and salvation were for him. He knew that with Jesus and his Word on his side, he could be as bold as the brave boy David was when he faced the giant Goliath. “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin,” David told that Philistine warrior, “but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands, and I’ll strike you down and cut off your head” (1 Samuel 17:45,46). With Jesus on his side, Luther knew that his victory over the devil was just as certain as David’s victory over Goliath. It would result in a blowout.

But what would have happened to David or Luther if they hadn’t entered their battles with Jesus and his powerful promises at their side? They would have been swiftly defeated and stripped of their brashness. Simply put, if they had believed they could defeat the dark forces of this world based on their own power or wisdom, they would have quickly learned otherwise. Without Jesus, none of us are a match for the devil—he will win every time.

But as Saint James reminds us today, when we resist the devil in Jesus’ name, armed with the sword of the Spirit, his holy Word (Ephesians 6:17), we can’t lose. That doesn’t mean the devil won’t attack us daily with temptation; he most certainly will. But when we resist the devil in Jesus’ name, James assures us, “he will flee from you.”

And so, we sing with Luther:

Though devils all the world should fill, all eager to devour us,
We tremble not, we fear no ill; they shall not overpow’r us.
This world’s prince may still scowl fierce as he will,
He can harm us none. He judged; the deed is done;
One little word can fell him (Christian Worship 863:3).

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, help me daily cling to you and resist the devil’s temptations. 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.

A Battle of Wills – September 30, 2024

Submit yourselves, then, to God.
James 4:7

A Battle of Wills

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Daily Devotion – September 30, 2024

Devotion based on James 4:7

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The parent-child relationship in this broken world is a fairly easy one to summarize—it’s a battle of wills. A parent wants one thing; the child wants something else. And so it is that from a very early age, toddlers begin to utilize and perfect one of their favorite words: “No!” Mommy or Daddy has directed them to do this or that, but their little ones have a completely different idea, a different will, and they resist. And the battle ensues.

Good parenting involves training a child to submit to your will willingly. It’s a valuable lesson to learn. But for children to be willing to do that, they must learn from experience that their parents’ will is good for them. They need to appreciate that Mom and Dad love them and have their children’s best interests in mind. As children begin to recognize this, they’ll be more willing to surrender their will because they see how it results in their blessing.

It’s no different for the children of God. By nature, we don’t trust our heavenly Father. We’re convinced that our way of doing things is better than his. We’re forever tempted to engage him in a battle of wills.

But how could that ever turn out well for us? Consider the many advantages our heavenly Father has over us, not the least of which is his ability to know the future and control it for our good. More than that, when we consider what he wants for us and all people—that he “wants all people to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth” (1 Timothy 2:4)—why would we ever think that his will for us could somehow turn out badly? And when we consider his overwhelming love for us—that he “did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all” (Romans 8:32)—how could we ever imagine that our will is superior to his? God’s will is always accomplished, and his will for us is good.

Simply put, this is one battle of the will we should want to lose because it results in our eternal blessing.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, help me daily to submit to your good and gracious will for me. 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.

Equipped by the Spirit – September 29, 2024

Moses went out and told the people what the Lord had said. He brought together seventy of their elders and had them stand around the tent. Then the LORD came down in the cloud and spoke with him, and he took some of the power of the Spirit that was on him and put it on the seventy elders.
Numbers 11:24,25

Equipped by the Spirit

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Daily Devotion – September 29, 2024

Devotion based on Numbers 11:24,25

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Moses was a humble, faithful leader of God’s people. As an 80-year-old man, he served with courage and patience, leading the Children of Israel out of Egypt to the promised land of Canaan. The Israelites numbered about two million people. God was gracious and provided for their needs on the journey. On a daily basis, he miraculously provided a special food they called “manna.” But the people God fed with this food got fed up with it and ungratefully complained that it wasn’t enough. It was almost too much for Moses. He got very frustrated and prayed to the Lord, “I cannot carry all these people by myself; the burden is too heavy for me.”

The Lord provided help. Seventy elders were chosen to assist Moses. The Lord equipped these elders for service by putting his Holy Spirit on them. The Spirit gave them the gifts they needed to accomplish the service for which they were appointed.

The Lord gives us his Spirit, too. The Holy Spirit comes to us through the gospel. He uses the good news of Jesus to give us life and salvation. God the Holy Spirit also equips us for the Lord’s service of leading people from the slavery of sin to the promised home of heaven. With gratefulness for all the blessings in Jesus, we gladly serve the Lord in this most important work.

Watch for opportunities that you have in your family, at work, or through your church to serve the Lord and accomplish his work. Equipped by the Holy Spirit, be confident that the Lord can use you to fulfill his will.

Prayer:
Lord, give me the ability to recognize and utilize the special gifts I have received from the Holy Spirit so that I may humbly and faithfully serve you and do all I can to lead more people to Jesus for their salvation. 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.

Wisdom From Above – September 28, 2024

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic.
James 3:13-15

Wisdom From Above

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Daily Devotion – September 28, 2024

Devotion based on James 3:13-15

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What does it mean to be wise? What does it mean to possess wisdom and understanding? The ancient Greek philosopher Socrates is attributed with saying, “I am the wisest man alive, for I know one thing, and that is that I know nothing.” King Solomon, the wisest man ever, came to a similar, sober conclusion when he pursued human wisdom. In the book of Ecclesiastes, he wrote: “For with much wisdom comes much sorrow; the more knowledge, the more grief.” Just as having more money doesn’t mean more happiness, having more earthly wisdom doesn’t mean a more satisfying life.

Thankfully, God has shown us another kind of wisdom. This wisdom is much more than the accumulation of information or the acquisition of insight; it is a way of life. True wisdom that comes from heaven “is first of all pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”

This wisdom can be seen perfectly in the life of Jesus Christ. It’s demonstrated in his mercy towards sinners, in his submission to his enemies, in his patience with his disciples, and finally in his selfless sacrifice on the cross. Jesus not only shows us the best possible way to live, but in his wisdom, he saved us from the control of sin and the penalty that it deserves.

When the Holy Spirit leads us to understand who Jesus is and what he has done for us, true wisdom is born in our hearts. This wisdom leads us to put away all bitter envy and selfish ambition. It helps us see through the false wisdom of this world that is earthly, unspiritual, and of the devil, and follow Jesus by sowing peace so that we, too, might raise a harvest of righteousness.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, send your Holy Spirit into my heart that I may always know true wisdom in my Savior, Jesus. Help me to live a life that is more and more like his. 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.

Welcome the Children! – September 27, 2024

He took a little child whom he placed among them. Taking the child in his arms, he said to them, “Whoever welcomes one of these little children in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me does not welcome me but the one who sent me.”
Mark 9:36,37

Welcome the Children!

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Daily Devotion – September 27, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 9:36,37

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Nowadays, it seems like the kids control the family schedule: baseball practices, dance recitals, band rehearsals, science fairs, etc. I know that my wife and I are not alone in this. It seems that whenever I talk to my friends with children, they’re just as gassed and tired as we are from all the chasing and driving. How about you?

Why do we do all of this? Why are we willing to cart them around and sacrifice all that time and money? There is probably a whole slew of reasons that you could spout off, but I think it boils down to this: we love them! We want the best for our kids. We want them to be successful and have an enjoyable childhood.

Jesus loves children, too. There are a number of times in the Bible where he took time for them, held them, and blessed them. Why? Because children are important to him. Our children are important to him.

If God has blessed you with kids, you have an amazing responsibility. God has put you in charge of that child’s spiritual welfare. As important and pressing as practices and rehearsals might seem, there is something deeper and longer-lasting that God wants for your child—a life and an eternity with Jesus. God wants your child to know that he has a Savior from sin. God wants your child to know that nothing will separate him from the love of Jesus. God wants your child to know he is forgiven.

Our society spends so much time on children. Let’s make sure that the children are being cared for with something that will last into eternity—their Savior.

Prayer:
Dear God, bless the young people in my life with assurance of your love and forgiveness. Bless our efforts to raise the next generation with the message of the cross of 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.

The Servant of All – September 26, 2024

Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”
Mark 9:35

The Servant of All

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Daily Devotion – September 26, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 9:35

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Occasionally, as I’m standing in line at the gas station or grocery store, the lottery lights catch my eye. And when I see the potential payout climb to hundreds of millions of dollars, it makes me think: what would I do if I had all of that? I picture eating steak and lobster in my mansion, cruising around the Mediterranean Sea, or relaxing on the beaches of Hawaii. If I’m honest, I see a life of luxury.

If you had money, power, and connections, wouldn’t you want “the good life” too? Wouldn’t you just want to relax and take life easy? Isn’t that what so many are striving and struggling for—a life a little bit easier and more bearable?

When the disciples saw the power and fame of Jesus, they, too, thought that because of their connections to Jesus, their lives were about to get a lot easier. No longer would they be nobodies! People would know who they were! Perhaps they could quit their jobs, put their feet up, and enjoy a life of ease and luxury.

But Jesus shatters those delusions because that’s not what the life of being his follower looks like, and that’s not what Jesus came to do.

Jesus had a life of luxury, which so many dream of. He sat on heaven’s throne, ruling and reigning over all creation. But his love for mankind compelled him to take on flesh and endure the suffering and punishment for humanity’s sins. He came to serve us with himself so that life in the perfect paradise of heaven wouldn’t be just some daydream but a soon-to-be reality.

So, what are we to do as his children? We serve. We serve our neighbor. We serve with our talents, time, and treasures so that we can have the opportunity to witness to others about the sacrificial love of the Savior. May God bless us as we serve our neighbor and, in so doing, serve him!

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for serving as my Savior. Move my heart to serve my neighbor and bless my efforts to serve you in your kingdom. 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.

Who Is the Greatest? – September 25, 2024

They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest. Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”
Mark 9:33-35

Who Is the Greatest?

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Daily Devotion – September 25, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 9:33-35

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It has been a little over a month since the Summer Olympics took place. The greatest athletes from around the globe strived and competed for gold. But I am sure that if you asked, some of them—if they were honest—weren’t competing just for the medal, but rather what the medal represented: greatness.

Those athletes put in countless gut-wrenching workouts and sacrificed days, if not months, away from their families while eating nothing but chicken and brown rice for a shot to make that podium. Many of them chased a dream that they would be standing on the world’s stage, crowned above the rest. To be honest, I never seriously considered chasing an Olympic medal (nor would I have ever had a remote chance even if I tried). But I can see the appeal. Can’t you? But what if you didn’t have to put in all the hard work and effort? What if you could ride someone else’s coattails all the way to the podium?

Jesus’ disciples couldn’t help but get caught up with all the hype. The world’s spotlight was on him. Thousands upon thousands of people rushed to see Jesus, everyone hoping to catch a glimpse of his glory. And amazingly, the disciples were right there beside him. Who wouldn’t want a share of the limelight?

But Jesus explained to them, and to us as well, that being a part of his kingdom isn’t about titles or authority. What brings glory and honor to God is service. Jesus, of course, served mankind by laying down his life as a payment for sin. Our Savior served us.

Because of that demonstration of Jesus’ love, we look to serve others as well—first and foremost, by telling them the amazing news of our Savior’s sacrifice on the cross!

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, bless me as I serve my neighbors with the good news of your sacrifice and service. 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.

I Don’t Understand and That’s Okay – September 24, 2024

They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.” But they did not understand what he meant and were afraid to ask him about it.
Mark 9:30-32

I Don’t Understand and That’s Okay

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Daily Devotion – September 24, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 9:30-32

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“Well, that’s not how it was supposed to turn out.” Have you ever found yourself thinking that? Maybe you didn’t get into the school you dreamed of attending or the job you wanted. Maybe some storm spoiled your family vacation that you spent months planning. Maybe the politician you thought would do the best job in office didn’t win. Sometimes, things don’t work out like we think they should. And we don’t understand.

For three years, Jesus’ disciples had been following him as he preached and healed people. Everywhere they went, Jesus drew a crowd. Thousands came out to see him. People would walk miles and wait hours for just a glimpse and a moment with Jesus. And his disciples had a front-row seat for the entire show.

But lately, Jesus’ words had grown darker. Lately, Jesus had been talking more and more about things like “betrayal” and “death.” They didn’t quite understand it. How could anyone want him gone? He was a healer of both broken bodies and broken hearts! They didn’t understand.

But eventually, they did. In death, Jesus brought about the greatest healing of all for the world. Jesus’ death paid for the sin of mankind and brought to the world the victory of eternal life. From a rational view, that doesn’t make good sense. But that’s okay. That’s how God chose to save us from death.

There will be times when we don’t understand why things happen the way that they do. But even if we can’t understand why things are happening the way they are, God has given us the greatest reason to trust him. He’s given us Jesus!

Prayer:
Dear God, help me to trust in your plans today and every day. 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.

It Is All Under Control – September 23, 2024

They left that place and passed through Galilee. Jesus did not want anyone to know where they were, because he was teaching his disciples. He said to them, “The Son of Man is going to be delivered into the hands of men. They will kill him, and after three days he will rise.”
Mark 9:30,31

It Is All Under Control

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Daily Devotion – September 23, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 9:30,31

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When my children were little, I loved cuddling up with them on the couch with a big bowl of popcorn for movie nights. Oh, those were the good ol’ days! I loved watching them as they held their breath with uncertainty as one of their heroes dangled in a perilous situation, wondering if he would make it through unscathed—which he always did! After all, these were kids’ movies we were watching! But now and then, when things got a little too scary, I would hold them tight and assure them that everything would be okay.

At this time, it was easy for the disciples to follow Jesus. Jesus was popular—crowds flocked to see him! Jesus was powerful—he healed the sick, walked on water, and even raised the dead!

But his followers didn’t know that times were about to get rather scary. The disciples were about to see one of their own betray Jesus. They were going to see Jesus subdued by soldiers and put to death.

That’s why Jesus wanted to assure them that everything would be okay. Jesus wanted to assure them that everything was under his control. So, he told them what would happen—not only that he would die, but also that he would rise!

Life might feel out of control for you right now. And it might be difficult to make any kind of semblance of a plan. But remember, Jesus had a plan to rescue you and me from death and was in control of it all. That’s the kind of hero, the kind of Savior you have—one with a plan! And he’ll lead you through this week every step of the way! It’s all under control.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, give me courage and strength to trust in you. Bring peace to my troubled heart when I worry about tomorrow. 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.

Wisdom – September 22, 2024

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show it by his good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.
James 3:13

Wisdom

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Daily Devotion – September 22, 2024

Devotion based on James 3:13

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In 2007, a man named Dan Dewey was sitting next to his elderly father in a hospital in Pontiac, Michigan. His father had leukemia, and every week Dan took him to the hospital to receive chemotherapy. As he sat there, he offered to get his dad a treat—a flavored coffee from a local Starbucks. Before he left, Dan looked around the room at all the other people enduring the same ordeal his father was. He decided to bring each of them a flavored coffee, too.

Dan has been doing it ever since. Every single week. He accepts no money from the patients. He sees his coffee run as a chance to show kindness to someone else.

That true story goes a long way to illustrate what the Bible means when it talks about wisdom. I might think of wisdom as a series of profound sayings coming from a mysterious mystic on top of a mountain. The Lord is much more real. The Lord describes wisdom in terms of how I live my life, by the deeds I do to touch the lives of others.

The Lord’s view of wisdom involves deeds done in…humility. And that’s where Jesus comes in. When I stand at the foot of the cross and understand that it was my sin for which Jesus died. When I realize that my life is full and fresh and forgiven because of what my Savior has done on my behalf—that’s when real wisdom begins. That’s when I see my life as a beautiful chance to thank the Lord for what he has done. That’s when I see my life as a precious string of opportunities to thank my Savior by touching the lives of others.

Maybe someone in your life needs a cup of coffee today. Or perhaps a listening ear or just a kind word. Take a moment to fill that need. That’s what wisdom is.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, so often I have led a busy life instead of a wise one. Forgive me. Renew my heart. Fill my life with deeds done in the humility that comes from the wisdom of knowing you as my Savior. 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.

Be Strong – September 21, 2024

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.
Ephesians 6:10

Be Strong

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Daily Devotion – September 21, 2024

Devotion based on Ephesians 6:10

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“Be strong.” Do you ever get tired of hearing that? Maybe mom and dad were dropping you off for your first day of school or football practice and the advice was: “Be strong.” Perhaps it was time to go to the doctor for some serious tests or to the funeral home for some funeral planning and the encouragement you heard was: “Be strong.”

The directive, “Be strong,” can be quite dangerous for two reasons. On the one hand, we might believe we have sufficient strength to do whatever we need to do. This self-reliance can work at times but ultimately leads us to crash and burn. That’s because we rely on ourselves rather than God. On the other hand, constantly being told to “be strong” can have a demoralizing effect. Maybe we know that we don’t have the strength required for the task and the encouragement to “be strong” leads us to despair and to give up. This is the problem with relying on human strength. It fails and lets us down.

Thankfully, God’s Word tells us: “Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.” On our own, sinful human beings can only fall short of whatever goal we are trying to achieve. But trusting in the Lord and relying on his power, there is nothing that God can’t accomplish for us.

When we focus on Jesus, we see a Savior who has everything we need. We see One with the power and might to calm storms, drive out demons, and heal diseases. We see One with the wisdom to know exactly what we need and when we need it. We see One with the love to do everything necessary to make sure we are forgiven and saved, even when that means going to the cross to die in our place. We see One with the power to rise from the dead and promise to do the same for us some day.

Each day we can begin with the encouragement—not to “Be strong” in ourselves but to “Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.”

Prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, forgive me for the times when I rely on myself. Teach me each day to trust in your power and love. 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.

Stand Firm With the Helmet of Salvation – September 20, 2024

Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
Ephesians 6:17

Stand Firm With the Helmet of Salvation

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Daily Devotion – September 20, 2024

Devotion based on Ephesians 6:17

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When I grew up, my parents would give the children in my family an Easter basket filled with candy. Except, my brother and I didn’t receive woven baskets. Our candy-holder was a souvenir baseball helmet. Every year, a new team was represented. We loved those helmets. When we’d play baseball in the backyard, the batter wouldn’t go without one. I don’t think those souvenir helmets would have saved us from a 90-mph fastball to the head, but it impressed upon us the necessity of keeping your head safe. Lose a limb, and you can live. Lose your head, and you’re dead.

One of the targets for the devil’s schemes is our head. Not only does he fill it with doubts, but he also twists some of God’s cerebral blessings against us. Think of how much the gift of reason often combats the truths of the Bible. For example, it doesn’t make sense that God is three distinct persons and yet only one God. It doesn’t make sense that God is eternal. My mind can’t conceive of someone who is timeless. It doesn’t make sense that a virgin could become pregnant. And the list continues.

When reason and Scripture are at odds, the devil tries to let reason win. But if everything that God is and everything that God does makes sense to our human reason, is he much of a God at all? I don’t want a God who makes sense. I want a God who’s greater than my mind. And that’s the God we have. We have a God who took on flesh so that he could die. We have a God who turned his back on his Son on the cross so that he could welcome us into heaven. We have a God who plants faith in our hearts when he attaches his Word to a little water poured over our heads. We have a God who didn’t wipe this earth clean when we rebelled, rather, we have a God who carried out a plan of salvation on our behalf. And it’s that salvation, that helmet of salvation, that allows us to stand firm against the devil’s schemes.

Prayer:
Lord, when I am tempted to lean on my reason, increase my trust in you and your Word. 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.

Stand Firm With the Shield of Faith – September 19, 2024

Take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.
Ephesians 6:16

Stand Firm With the Shield of Faith

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Daily Devotion – September 19, 2024

Devotion based on Ephesians 6:16

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“Snow day!” Nothing sends more excitement into a neighborhood than those two words. While snow days off school are intended to keep the children safe, for many children, those two words mean war as a neighborhood snowball fight can commence later in the day. After each side has built their fortresses and stockpiled their perfectly rounded snowballs for ammunition, the fighting begins. Armed with garbage can lids as shields, one troop advances on the other, trying to capture the flag in the other team’s fortress.

If only all wars were as harmless as a neighborhood snowball fight. When the devil advances into our fortress, he’s shooting something at us more dangerous than snowballs. The flaming arrows of the evil one may come in the form of doubts, guilt, fear, laziness, and much more. How do we fend off his attacks? What’s going to keep us safe?

Our first temptation may be to retreat. But he’s going to keep coming. Then, we may tend to look to ourselves. I’m faster. I’m bigger. I’m stronger. This may be true if you’re comparing yourself to the other neighborhood kids, but not when it comes to the devil. When I look to myself as I battle the devil, I see the cracks in my armor. I see the plodding feet. If I look to myself, I will fall. I will not stand firm.

But all is not lost. No matter how intense the enemy’s attack is, our Lord equips us with a shield of faith that is bigger and sturdier than any garbage can cover. We can completely hide behind the shield of faith. Why? Because faith is only as strong as the object in which it rests. And our faith rests on the One who defeated the devil. Our faith rests on the One who invaded the devil’s kingdom of the world and crushed his head. Our faith rests in Jesus. So, stand firm. Stand firm behind a shield of faith that relies on him.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, protect me from the evil one as I find comfort in your promises and protection. 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.

Stand Firm With Fitted Feet – September 18, 2024

Stand firm then . . . with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.
Ephesians 6:14,15

Stand Firm With Fitted Feet

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Daily Devotion – September 18, 2024

Devotion based on Ephesians 6:14,15

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“There’s nothing more important than a good pair of shoe” That’s what the chiropractor told his patient, who was getting his back treated again. Yet, no matter how often the chiropractor offered that free advice, his patient was too cheap to invest in a good pair of shoes. As a result, he retained the title “patient” for many more years and had to keep returning for treatment.

Many know from experience the importance of a good pair of shoes. So does our Savior. No, I’m not suggesting that Jesus insisted on Birkenstocks for his disciples. Rather, I’m talking about how he equips his people to serve in his kingdom. Our heavenly Father can bless us with our minds and abilities, but to serve the Lord, our feet also need to be “fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.”

If you consider that the feet are the body’s shock absorbers, there is nothing better than to have the gospel of peace provide the cushion for our souls (pun intended). The good news that Jesus lived and died in our place, assures us that we have peace with God. But this peace isn’t just an internal sense of calm, it’s a dynamic force that equips and motivates us to share that same gospel with others. With feet fitted with the gospel of peace, you, too, will be ready to serve others with the life-saving message of Jesus.

Prayer: (Christian Worship: Hymnal – 695)
Lord, take my feet and let them be swift and beautiful for 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.

Stand Firm With the Breastplate of Righteousness – September 17, 2024

Stand firm then . . . with the breastplate of righteousness in place.
Ephesians 6:14

Stand Firm With the Breastplate of Righteousness

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Daily Devotion – September 17, 2024

Devotion based on Ephesians 6:14

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“I’m sorry you lost your job.” “I’m sorry, your home has burned down.” “I’m sorry, your loved one has passed.” Every so often, we receive devastating news that pierces our hearts. We’re left not knowing how to react. We’re speechless. But what if you re-read those opening scenarios and added the tag—and it’s your fault. You caused the company to lose millions of dollars. You left the stove on. You ran the red light and caused the crash. Now you’re not just dealing with grief. You’re dealing with guilt.”Shot to the heart” is one thing. “Shot to the heart and you’re to blame,” is another. How are you able to stand firm when that old pop song lyric describes your life?

Guilt is one of the sharpest arrows in the devil’s quiver. And he loves to pull back the string and let that arrow fly to serve as the kill shot when it comes to our spiritual lives. Why is it so effective? Because guilt is real. I am guilty of breaking God’s law, and so are you. We “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).

Yet, there’s one person who resisted every arrow shot in his direction. There’s one who lived a guilt-free life because he was, in fact, guiltless. That person is Jesus. And in his love, he gives us his perfection and righteousness to wear as a breastplate so when the devil shoots the arrow of guilt in our direction, it bounces off and harmlessly falls to the ground. No matter what you’ve done in the past or how many times you’ve heard, “You’re forgiven,” but forgotten it, be assured that you can stand firm with the breastplate of Jesus’ righteousness.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, when I am battling with guilt, assure me that I am clothed with the robe of your righteousness. 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.

Stand Firm With the Belt of Truth – September 16, 2024

Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist.
Ephesians 6:14

Stand Firm With the Belt of Truth

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Daily Devotion – September 16, 2024

Devotion based on Ephesians 6:14

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“Can you bring my belt?” A few years ago, that was the text I received from a soon-to-be groom. He had already flown cross-country for his upcoming wedding, but he had forgotten his belt. Knowing I was flying a few days later, he asked me to break into his apartment and bring his belt to the wedding. After packing, flying, driving, and a few more texts and phone calls to arrange for the delivery, the groom finally had the item he needed a few hours before he said, “I do.” Why all the effort for a belt? Because a belt is important. It helps keep your shirt tucked in, and more importantly, it holds your pants up and keeps you from being exposed.

Our enemy, the devil, wants nothing more than to have our sins exposed as we stand before our holy God. He has many schemes to get that done, including the first one he ever employed. The first words out of his mouth were, “Did God really say?” And he hasn’t stopped using that tactic. He strives to get us to doubt God’s Word. And when God’s Word isn’t in the picture, our lives soon become untucked. When God’s Word isn’t in the picture, our sins become exposed. And the devil would have us believe, “Look at you. Look how sinful you are. There’s no way you can ever expect to be in God’s presence. There’s no way you can ever expect to have eternal life.” And we become spiritually discombobulated.

But thankfully, our Savior, Jesus, equips us with tools to resist such devilish schemes. And perhaps the greatest tool he gives us to overcome doubt is the belt of truth. In the face of Satan’s lies, hear Jesus declare, “I am the way, the truth, and the life” (John 14:6). By fastening the belt of truth around us, we are no longer spiritually untucked. Rather, we can be spiritually secure, standing firm in the reality that Jesus paid for our sins and knowing that one day, we still stand next to Jesus, our heavenly bridegroom.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the truth of your Word. Help me to wear that belt of truth daily to stand firm against the devil’s lies. 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.

Praying With Purpose – September 15, 2024

At the time of sacrifice, the prophet Elijah stepped forward and prayed: “LORD, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Israel, let it be known today that you are God in Israel and that I am your servant and have done all these things at your command. Answer me, LORD, answer me, so these people will know that you, LORD, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”
1 Kings 18:36,37

Praying With Purpose

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Daily Devotion – September 15, 2024

Devotion based on 1 Kings 18:36,37

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If you are like me, there is a good chance that, at times, you have prayed for a fortune of money. Especially when I was younger, I had a long list of things I would do with abundant wealth. Of course, I planned to give some of it to others and for charitable causes, but the main point was to take care of myself. Yes, because we are sinful, our prayers are often tainted with improper motivation: selfishness, greed, and pride.

When Elijah prayed, he prayed with a different motivation, for a different purpose. When he confronted the prophets of Baal on Mt. Carmel, he wasn’t there to bring glory to himself. He didn’t pray, “Lord, if this doesn’t work, I’m going to look foolish, and my life will be in danger!” Elijah had just one reason for asking God to consume with fire the sacrifice he had prepared: “…so these people will know that you, LORD, are God, and that you are turning their hearts back again.”

When we are tempted to pray with selfish motives, it is important to look again to the cross of Jesus. See the great selflessness of his love that moved him to sacrifice himself in our place to free us from the guilt of our sin. He gives us more than a fortune of money; he gives us life with God! In response, our prayers give honor to God and reflect his saving will. Like Elijah, we too are moved to pray with a good purpose—that people may know that the Lord is God.

Prayer:
I pray, Lord, that your good news of salvation reaches the many people in this world who need to know Jesus. Use me to be one of the ways that you spread the word that you are the true God. 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.

Something Better – September 14, 2024

Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone.
Mark 7:36

Something Better

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Daily Devotion – September 14, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 7:36

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In a world caught up in self-promotion, one might wonder why Jesus said, “Don’t tell anyone,” After he healed a deaf man. Why not spread his message? Why not let everyone be amazed at his power to heal? Why not give the people what they really wanted? Jesus gave the command because he wanted to give the people something better.

It is easy to want Jesus to be something he isn’t. It is just as easy to make him into something he never came to be. Jesus did not come into this world to make our earthly life easier. He came to provide rescue and relief from the burden of sin.

It is tempting to make Jesus into a physician, healing sickness. It is just as tempting to make Jesus into a counselor, resolving personal problems. It is tempting to make Jesus into whatever we want him to be, making life better. There is only one problem. If Jesus didn’t perform to the level of our desire, we would eventually have little use for him.

So, it is important to understand that Jesus came into the world to give us something better. He came to give us forgiveness and free us from the burden of sin’s guilt. He came to offer his life to rescue us from the punishment of death and offer hope. This is what we desperately need, and what Jesus graciously offers.

Jesus proclaimed his reason for coming into this world. It was “to seek and to save what was lost” (Luke 19:10). Unfortunately, many reject Jesus because he doesn’t live up to their expectations. The Bible leads us to know Jesus and rely on him for what he came to do. When we trust Jesus as our Savior from sin and death, we really do have something better.

Prayer:
O dearest Jesus, I come to you looking for relief and rescue. Give me the perfect help and healing you came to provide. Forgive my sins. Release me from the fear of death. Bless me with the hope of life in heaven. 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.

All Praise to God – September 13, 2024

Then Peter said, “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Taking him by the right hand, he helped him up, and instantly the man’s feet and ankles became strong. He jumped to his feet and began to walk. Then he went with them into the temple courts, walking and jumping, and praising God. When all the people saw him walking and praising God. . . they were filled with wonder and amazement at what had happened to him.
Acts 3:6-10

All Praise to God

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Daily Devotion – September 13, 2024

Devotion based on Acts 3:6-10

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He positioned himself at a busy part of the temple. Maybe someone carried him there, or perhaps he crawled. He could not walk. He spent his days begging for money. He begged from two of Jesus’ disciples, Peter and John. They didn’t have any money. They had something better.

In the name of Jesus, Peter takes the man by the hand and helps him up. Instantly, bones, tendons, ligaments, and muscles that hadn’t worked before miraculously could. Everyone watched in amazement as this man went with Peter and John, praising the God who had healed him, his Savior, Jesus.

It was a fairy tale ending made real life for that man. He could walk. But is it always a fairy tale ending for every believer in Jesus? The troubles in their lives don’t miraculously disappear all the time. The cancer diagnosis turns into a funeral. The financial hardship ends in bankruptcy. The relationship falls apart.

And yet, believers continue to trust in God whether he provides a miracle for them or not. God uses those hardships to strengthen their faith in him. Their perseverance becomes an example to others as they watch their unwavering faith in God. They are reminded that this earthly home is only temporary, and the joys of heaven are not worth comparing to present sufferings. So, they set their eyes on something greater than a physical miracle. They set their eyes on Jesus.

With wonder and amazement, Christians give thanks to Jesus for his sacrifice on the cross. That sacrifice means that believers won’t have a fairy tale ending. Instead, it will be a real life beginning—the beginning of their eternal life with their Savior, Jesus.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, no matter my circumstances, keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and the eternity he won for me through his sacrifice. 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.

Be Strong, Do Not Fear – September 12, 2024

Say to those with fearful hearts, “Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.”
Isaiah 35:4

Be Strong, Do Not Fear

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Daily Devotion – September 12, 2024

Devotion based on Isaiah 35:4

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Around the year A.D. 156, a man named Polycarp was arrested during a time of Christian persecution. He was the leader of the church in Smyrna. His arrestors urged him to renounce Christ and to make a small offering to the Roman Caesar. They didn’t want to see this old man put to death. In their minds, they were asking a small thing.

“Curse Christ, and you will live!” said the Roman ruler. But Polycarp remained steadfast. “Eighty and six years have I served him, and he has done me no wrong. How then can I blaspheme my King who saved me?” Polycarp replied.

Astonished and incensed, the Roman ruler threatened to burn Polycarp to death. Polycarp replied that his fire would last an hour, but the fires of hell would last an eternity. And with that, Polycarp was burned at the stake.

Through it all, Polycarp’s faith did not waver. He was not afraid of what men would do to him. Why? Because he knew God had come. Polycarp knew Jesus had already saved him from something far worse. Without fear or trembling, Polycarp stood firm to the end.

Over and over again, God tells his people not to be afraid. The reminder is necessary because people are sinners who deserve the wrath of God. And yet, God shows that he is not eager to punish or to threaten and terrify. God takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked. Instead, he wants to bring peace and hope, forgiveness and life.

That’s why God sent Jesus to save you. He sent Jesus to take away your guilt and shame that causes you to fear God’s wrath. Jesus tells you to be strong and not fear because he has made things right between you and God.

No matter what trials and temptations you face, you can be strong and not fear. Your God is on your side. Jesus has come, and he has saved you.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, you are with me in every situation. Give me courage to stand firm in my faith no matter what. 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.

More Than a Miracle Worker – September 11, 2024

Jesus commanded them not to tell anyone. But the more he did so, the more they kept talking about it. People were overwhelmed with amazement. “He has done everything well,” they said. “He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”
Mark 7:36,37

More Than a Miracle Worker

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Daily Devotion – September 11, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 7:36,37

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It sounds odd that Jesus instructed people not to spread news of the miracle he had just performed. It seems like the type of thing he would want people to know about. He had made a deaf and mute man hear and speak! Bring your sick, blind, deaf, and lame. Jesus can heal them. Like a doctor with a miracle cure, didn’t Jesus want to help all those people?

The people would have been perfectly happy with Jesus as their miracle worker, the one who could make their lives better right now. Jesus performed many miracles. They transformed the lives of the people he helped. But everyone Jesus healed had a much bigger problem, a sin problem. Those sins separated them from God.

The people wanted a miracle worker, but Jesus came to give them something much better. His work as the Messiah, the anointed and chosen one of God, was not to make life on earth paradise. Rather, he was preparing people for paradise by pardoning their sins.

His goal wasn’t to be popular; his goal was the cross. He planned to lay aside his power and submit to death, separation from God, the punishment all sinners deserve. Jesus did this so that all who believe in him as their Savior would be rescued from death and experience ultimate healing and restoration in eternity.

Maybe you’ve prayed to Jesus, asking for a miracle. And perhaps you haven’t gotten the answer you wanted. You wonder why he lets you suffer. But you don’t ever have to wonder about his love for you. Jesus’ willingness to suffer and die for your sins shows his love for you. And his suffering demonstrates that God brings incredible good from suffering.

Jesus healed many, but he didn’t heal all. However, Jesus did suffer for all, dying for the sins of the world so that whoever believes in him will have eternal life. Earthly suffering is temporary, but the peace, joy, and restoration Jesus promises is for eternity.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for taking care of my biggest problem, my sins. Help me always put my faith in you as my Savior. 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.

Jesus’ Personal Touch – September 10, 2024

After he took him aside, away from the crowd, Jesus put his fingers into the man’s ears. Then he spit and touched the man’s tongue. He looked up to heaven and with a deep sigh said to him, “Ephphatha!” (which means “Be opened!”). At this, the man’s ears were opened, his tongue was loosened and he began to speak plainly.
Mark 7:33-35

Jesus’ Personal Touch

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Daily Devotion – September 10, 2024

Devotion based on Mark 7:33-35

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We don’t know if the deaf man brought before Jesus knew who Jesus was, but Jesus knew him. And Jesus knew exactly what that man needed. The first miracle Jesus performed was getting the deaf man away from the crowd. Then, very lovingly and gently, Jesus showed the man what he would do for him. He touched the man’s deaf ears and mute tongue. And then he looked up and sighed. How many times had that deaf and mute man done the same thing out of frustration from not being able to communicate? Jesus showed his love, compassion, and understanding.

With one word, “Ephphatha!” Jesus opened the man’s ears to hear and loosened his tongue to speak. Jesus gave the man not just hearing and speaking but vocabulary, grammar, and syntax. His opened ears meant he could hear the call to repentance and the voice of Jesus teaching about the kingdom of God and the forgiveness of sins. Jesus’ miracle didn’t just change this man’s life, but his eternity. Jesus took the time to meet his individual needs.

Jesus knows exactly what you are feeling and going through, too. He knows your needs and desires. He knows your pain and weaknesses. He sighs with you. And Jesus comes to you the same way he came to that deaf man, through his Word.

The powerful word Jesus used to heal this man is the same powerful Word in the Bible. Through this Word, Jesus opens spiritually deaf ears to hear life-giving forgiveness of sins. Through this Word, Jesus resurrects spiritually dead hearts to a new life of faith and brings comfort and peace.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for coming to me in your Word. 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.