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Read: Amos 6:1-7

Woe to you who are complacent in Zion, and to you who feel secure on Mount Samaria . . . your feasting and lounging will end. Amos 6:1a,7b

Tuned in or Tuned Out?

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

Have you ever put on headphones or earbuds, cranked up your favorite song or video, and didn’t even notice someone talking to you? Maybe Mom was calling you for dinner, but you didn’t hear her at all. You were in your own world—tuned out.

That’s kind of what happened in today’s Bible reading. God’s people were having parties, eating fancy food, enjoying life, totally tuned out. But they weren’t listening to God. They were so distracted by having fun that they didn’t care what God said. So God sent the prophet Amos to call them to repent—to wake them up.

God wants us to enjoy good things too—family, games, food, even fun hobbies. But he doesn’t want us so tuned in to those things that we tune out his voice. If we don’t hear Jesus’ voice, how can we follow him? His voice is the one that leads us to heaven.

Think about times when your family has gotten really busy—school, sports, vacations, or just being tired—and you’ve tuned Jesus out. Or maybe during devotions you’ve thought about what’s for lunch instead of listening. But here’s the good news: Jesus never stops calling. Even right now, through his Word and Holy Spirit, he’s calling you back. That’s grace.

In the Bible, this happened again and again:

• God’s people got distracted.
• God sent someone (a prophet, pastor, or parent) to wake them up.
• When they listened, God forgave them and promised to fix things.

That’s what happened in Amos’ time, too. God promised: “I will restore and repair” (Amos 9:11). That promise pointed ahead to Jesus, who fixes what sin breaks and makes us God’s children forever.

God still speaks today—through the Bible, through parents and pastors, and through Christian friends. He wants you tuned in because his voice is full of love, truth, and eternal life.

Let’s pray that even when life gets noisy, we always hear Jesus first.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for giving me so many good blessings—food, friends, family, and fun. Forgive me when I get too busy or distracted to listen to you. Help me to stay tuned in to your Word every day. 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’s something that makes it hard for you to hear your parents calling you? (video games, TV, music, etc.)
• How do you think Jesus “calls your name”? (through the Bible, church, parents, teachers, etc.)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• When do you feel tempted to tune out God’s Word?
• What’s one idea to help your family stay tuned in to Jesus? (like family prayer before bed, reading a short verse at dinner, listening to Christian songs, etc.)

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What are some “loud noises” in your life that try to drown out Jesus’ voice?
• What’s one habit you could start this week to stay tuned in to Jesus?

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Read: 1 Timothy 6:6-10,17-19

But godliness with contentment is great gain. 1 Timothy 6:6

The Secret to Being Rich

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

Here’s a wild thought: God wants you to be rich.

Not in cash. Not in gift cards. But in contentment.

Paul writes, “Godliness with contentment is great gain” (1 Timothy 6:6). In other words? Being rich isn’t about what’s in your wallet. It’s about what’s in your heart.

Most people think if they just had a little more, then they’d be happy. More money. More stuff. More success. But Paul warns that chasing wealth doesn’t bring freedom, it brings chains.

“Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs” (1Timothy 6:10).

Think about that. They thought they were gaining. Instead, they lost. Money made them restless. Greedy. Trapped.

But then Paul offers a different way: “Put your hope in God, who richly provides everything for our enjoyment. Be rich in good deeds, generous, willing to share” (1 Timothy 6:17-18).

This is the secret to real wealth: Not hoarding but giving. Not chasing more but resting in enough. The richest person in the room? The one who trusts God and lives with open hands who can only give because God’s grace has already given us everything.

So, what are you chasing? Take a look at your Savior—you already have more than enough!

Prayer:

Father, help us treasure what truly matters. Make us rich in faith, love, and generosity. 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 is something you’re really thankful to God for today? (big or small)
• How can you share what you have with someone else out of love for Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why does contentment (being thankful for what you have) make us richer than money ever could?
• How can you use what you have—time, talents, or things—to bless others?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How does Jesus’ grace-given generosity change our hearts?
• Think of a way that helps you keep your focus on eternal treasure this week.

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Read: Luke 15:1-10

Jesus told them this parable: “Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it? And when he finds it, he joyfully puts it on his shoulders and goes home. Then he calls his friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost sheep.’ “Or suppose a woman has ten silver coins and loses one. Doesn’t she light a lamp, sweep the house and search carefully until she finds it? And when she finds it, she calls her friends and neighbors together and says, ‘Rejoice with me; I have found my lost coin.’ In the same way, I tell you, there is rejoicing in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents.” Luke 15:1-10 (selected verses)

Heaven Throws a Party

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

Ever lost something super important? A favorite stuffed animal? A video game, even your phone? You didn’t just shrug and walk away. You searched under the couch. You tore apart your room. You turned the house upside down!

That’s the kind of searching Jesus describes in these parables. A shepherd risks everything for one lost sheep. A woman turns her whole house upside down for a single coin. Why? Because to them, that one thing matters.

And Jesus’ point? That’s how much you matter to God.

When you wander, he chases. When you fall, he lifts you up. And when you come home, all of heaven throws a party.

Let’s pause on that. Heaven celebrates every single time someone turns back to God. No eye rolls. No half-hearted claps. We’re talking a full-blown, angel-cheering, trumpet-blasting, joyful celebration!

Some people think God is distant. Uninterested. Like he’s waiting with a clipboard, checking off rules because he’s hard to please. But these parables tell a different story. God isn’t waiting for you to clean yourself up before he cares. He’s searching for you right now because you are worth finding.

What about the people around you? Maybe there’s someone you know who feels lost. Maybe they think they’ve messed up too badly to be loved.

Tell them the truth: God hasn’t given up on them. Heaven is ready to celebrate them.

Prayer:

Father, thank you for searching for us when we wander. Help us celebrate your grace every day. 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

• Have you ever found something you lost? What was it? How did that feel when you found it?
• Does God always hear your prayers? Why does that matter?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why are Jesus’ parables of the lost sheep and the lost coin awesome ways to show his love for us?
• How can you help someone know they are important to God? (What could you say or do?)

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What do these parables teach us about how God sees people?
• How can we reflect God’s joy when someone turns back to him? (What would a “heaven party” look like if we acted it out?)

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The LORD said to me, “Go, show your love to your wife again, though she is loved by another man and is an adulteress. Love her as the LORD loves the Israelites, though they turn to other gods and love the sacred raisin cakes.” So I bought her for fifteen shekels of silver and about a homer and a lethek of barley. Then I told her, “You are to live with me many days; you must not be a prostitute or be intimate with any man, and I will behave the same way toward you.” For the Israelites will live many days without king or prince, without sacrifice or sacred stones, without ephod or household gods. Afterward the Israelites will return and seek the LORD their God and David their king. They will come trembling to the LORD and to his blessings in the last days. Hosea 3:1-5

Love That Won’t Let Go

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

Ever tried calling a pet that doesn’t want to be caught? Like a dog darting through the neighborhood, ears back, tail high, zigzagging just out of reach? You call. You chase. You promise treats. Still, they don’t come.

Now imagine that pet is a person—someone you love. And they’re running from you. Worse, they’re running from God.

That’s the heartbreak of Hosea. God tells him to chase after his wife, Gomer, who keeps walking away from him, choosing anything but to be faithful. She’s broken her promises. Hurt their relationship. But still, God says: “Go. Love her. Bring her home.”

Why? Because this is how God loves us.

We wander. We mess up. We pick everything (video games, friends, sports, or other stuff) before him. And yet—he chases. He calls us back. He refuses to stop loving. He refuses to stop forgiving.

Sound reckless? Undeserved? It is. And that’s grace.

Hosea’s story is our story. A love so stubborn, so relentless, so committed that it doesn’t quit when we do. In Jesus, God took his pursuit to the ultimate level—paying for our rescue, not just with silver and gold, but with his own life.

If you’ve ever felt unworthy, ever wondered if God could still love you after everything you’ve done—you don’t have to wonder. He’s chasing after you. You are wanted. You are his.

And if there’s someone in your life who’s running from him? Don’t give up on them. Keep loving. Keep praying. Keep chasing. Because that’s what God does for us.

Prayer:

Father, thank you for chasing after us even when we run the wrong way. Help us trust in your love and reflect it to others. 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

• Have you ever played hide-and-seek? What’s the best part—hiding, or being found? Why?
• Who in your life loves you no matter what? (Parents, grandparents, friends, even pets?)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think people sometimes run away from God? (Don’t want rules, think other stuff is more fun, feel guilty, etc.)
• How does it make you feel that God never gives up on you?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Hosea’s love for Gomer was shocking. What does that show us about how big God’s love really is?
• Who in your life might need to hear that God hasn’t given up on them? How could you show them God’s love this week?

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Read: Philemon 1,7-21

Paul, a prisoner of Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon, our dear friend and coworker. For I have received great joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed by you, brother. I have sent him [Onesimus] (who is my very heart) back to you. Welcome him. I wanted to keep him with me, so that he might serve me in your place while I am in chains for the gospel. But I did not want to do anything without your consent, so that your kindness would not be the result of compulsion, but of willingness. Perhaps this is why he was separated from you for a while: so that you would have him back forever, no longer as a slave, but as more than a slave, as a dear brother. He certainly is dear to me, but he is even more of a dear brother to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.
Philemon 1,7,12-16 (EHV)

The Forgiveness Letter

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

How many of the 66 books of the Bible have you read? Did you know one of them is so short you can read the whole thing in about 2 minutes? I tried it out loud—it took me 123 seconds! That book is called Philemon (say it like: Fy-LEE-mon). It’s short, but it packs a big lesson about Christian love.

There are three important people in the story:

• First, the writer—the apostle Paul.
• Second, Paul’s friend Philemon.
• Third, a man named Onesimus (say it with me: Oh-NESS-ih-muss). Try saying it five times fast!

And here is how these three people fit together: Onesimus used to be Philemon’s slave, but one day, he ran away to Rome. And guess who he bumped into there? Paul! You can’t make this up! What a neat example that God is always in control, even when life sometimes feels out of control!

When Paul met Onesimus, he told him about Jesus—and Onesimus became a believer. Now Paul is writing to Philemon and saying, “When Onesimus comes back, don’t treat him like a slave anymore. Treat him like a dear Christian brother.”

That’s a big lesson for us too. Even when we get mad at someone or when they hurt us, God wants us to see them the way he sees them—as brothers and sisters in Christ.

Think about the Lord’s Prayer. When we say, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us,” here’s what we’re really saying: “God, thank you for forgiving me. Help me to forgive others the same way.” That’s exactly what Paul was encouraging Philemon to do for Onesimus. Compelled by the forgiveness God has given to Philemon, Paul encourages Philemon to welcome Onesimus with open arms.

So tonight, why not grab a Bible and read Philemon out loud with your family? It’ll only take a couple minutes, and you’ll hear the whole story for yourself. A story of a family showing Christian love!

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for the inside view into the lives of Paul, Philemon, and Onesimus. What a heart-warming letter that also encourages us to show Christian love with those around us. When it’s hard to forgive, remind us of how much you have forgiven us. Give us chances to show that same love to others. In Jesus’ name we pray. 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

• How many seconds would it take for one of your parents to read the book of Philemon out loud? Want to try it?!
• Can you name the three main people in the book of Philemon?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• When you pray, “Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us,” what are you asking God to help you do?
• What was Paul encouraging Philemon to do with Onesimus? Why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Can you share a time in your life when it was really hard to forgive someone?
• How does remembering that God has completely forgiven you make it easier to forgive someone else?

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Read: Luke 14:1,7-14

One Sabbath day, when Jesus went into the house of a leader of the Pharisees to eat bread, they were watching him closely. When he noticed how they were selecting the places of honor, he told the invited guests a parable. “When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline in the place of honor, or perhaps someone more distinguished than you may have been invited by him. The one who invited both of you may come and tell you, ‘Give this man your place.’ Then you will begin, with shame, to take the lowest place. “But when you are invited, go and recline in the lowest place, so that when the one who invited you comes, he will tell you, ‘Friend, move up to a higher place.’ Then you will have honor in the presence of all who are reclining at the table with you. “Yes, everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” Luke 14:1,7-11 (EHV)

Be Like Barry!

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

Barry Sanders. Have you ever heard of him? After devotion today (with the permission of an adult), try googling “Barry Sanders Highlights.” You will see ten minutes of amazing, jaw-dropping football moves. Lots of people say he was the best running back to ever play the game.

After Barry juked and spun and broke tackle after tackle, and finally ran into the endzone, what do you think he did? Most athletes would pound their chests, spike the ball, or do a celebration dance. But not Barry. He would just hand the ball to the referee and quietly head back to the sideline. He didn’t brag. He didn’t show off. He was used to scoring. And he knew he would be there again.

In a way, that describes you, dear child of God. God has secured for you your very own best place at the table. Because Jesus has taken away your sins and given you his perfect record, God has written your name in the reservation book of heaven. And you are going to enjoy being there day after day after day . . . a forever celebration!!

When you remember that, you don’t have to praise and exalt yourself right now. You can be humble and give God all the praise for what he has done for you. That will show itself in how you live: You’ll put others first. You’ll care for people who are hurting. You’ll tell them that they too have a place at the table in heaven because of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection.

So . . . be like Barry!

You don’t need to grandstand or show off. Just hand the ball to the ref—you’re used to getting the touchdowns Jesus has won for you! That truth sets you free, not to brag, but to be humble in service to others!

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we thank you that we are your dear special children through Jesus. Thank you for saving a place for me at the banquet table in heaven. Because of that amazing gift, help me to be humble and serve others until the day that we receive the eternal victory that is ours in heaven through Jesus. In his name we pray. 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 is something that you are good at? (Sports, art, video games, reading, etc.)
• Who really deserves the credit for that gift or talent? Why?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Can you think of someone in your life who is a good example of being humble? What do they do that shows it?
• When something good happens in your life, rather than bragging, what’s something you could do to stay humble?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why do you think Barry Sanders didn’t show off when he got a touchdown?
• How does knowing that you will one day be forever home in heaven help you stay humble here on earth?

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Do not honor yourself in a king’s presence. Do not stand in a place reserved for great people, because it is better to be told, “Come up here,” than for you to be humiliated before a ruler.
Proverbs 25:6-7a (EHV)

Would You Rather . . . Be Humble?

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

Have you ever played the game, “Would You Rather?” It gives you two choices, and you have to pick which one you would rather do.

• Would you rather be able to fly or be invisible?
• Would you rather live on a beach or near the mountains?
• Would you rather have a bottomless bowl of ice cream or a bottomless plate of fries?
• Would you rather (go ahead, take a moment and make up one of your own)?

Sometimes the choice is really hard because you want both ice cream and fries!

But sometimes the choice is really easy. Here’s one of those easy ones: Would you rather be moved up to a place of honor or get embarrassed and sent down to a lower place? Or think of it this way: Would you rather be last in line for recess and your teacher moves you to the front or be first in line and get sent all the way to the back? Well, that’s easy . . . move me up to the front, right?!

The Book of Proverbs is full of God’s inspired advice. And the advice is simply this, “Humble yourself. Put others first. Let God lift you up.” It’s easy to understand—but actually hard to do.

Let’s say you just got your test back at school. You notice your friend didn’t do as well. A little part of you might want to “accidentally” show off your test score, right? Or let’s say there’s one piece of pizza left. You and your brother each had two already. You want to grab it before he finishes his!

It’s hard to be humble. It’s hard to put others first.

We all have moments like that. And that’s why it’s so great to think about Jesus. “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that although he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that through his poverty you might become rich” (2 Corinthians 8:9 EHV). Jesus didn’t choose the easy way. He humbled himself, so that you would be exalted!

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we thank you for humbling yourself and becoming obedient to even death for us. By your resurrection, the Father exalted you and gave you the name that is above every name. Help us confess your saving name to the world around us in our words and also in our humble actions. Give us opportunities this week to live out our faith by putting others first. 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

• Would you rather be last in line and moved to first, or first in line and sent to the back? Why?
• Remembering that Jesus loves you, what is one thing you could do for someone this week?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why is God’s advice in Proverbs easy to understand but hard to follow?
• When you haven’t been humble or didn’t put others first, what’s the best thing to do next?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What does it mean that “Jesus humbled himself so that you would be exalted”?
• Can you think of a way that you can put God’s advice into practice this week?

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Read: Isaiah 66:18-24

“And I, because of what they have planned and done, am about to come and gather the people of all nations and languages, and they will come and see my glory. And they will bring all your people, from all the nations, to my holy mountain in Jerusalem as an offering to the LORD—on horses, in chariots and wagons, and on mules and camels,” says the LORD. “And I will select some of them also to be priests and Levites,” says the LORD. Isaiah 66:18-24 (selected verses)

A Family Reunion

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

Did you go anywhere fun this summer? Maybe to the beach? A waterpark? Grandma’s house? Or maybe you stayed home with family and friends but still had a great time?

Whether you stayed near or went far, your mode of transportation was probably different than what the people of Isaiah’s day were using. Back in Bible times, people didn’t have cars, planes, or buses. They traveled by walking, riding donkeys or horses (Isa 66:20), or in bumpy old wagons. Imagine if your family vacation took weeks just to get there! But here’s something that hasn’t changed: No matter where you go, God says the people you meet could be part of your family—his family.

“What does that mean?” the people of Isaiah’s day were wondering. They thought only their group (the Jews) could be God’s special people. But God told Isaiah to say something surprising: “I . . . am about to come and gather the people of all nations and languages” (Isaiah 66:18). The non-Jewish nations were called “Gentiles.” In other words, God was inviting everyone—people from every country, every language, every place—to be part of his forever family. And not only that, but God said he would even make people from other nations “to be priests and Levites” (Isa 66:21), roles specifically reserved for blood relatives of part of the Jewish people.

What does that all mean? Paul explained it this way: “There is no difference between Jew and Gentile—the same Lord is Lord of all and richly blesses all who call on him” (Rom 10:12).

And guess what? That’s still true for us today. No matter where you go—whether it’s another state, another country or even just another school—you will never meet someone Jesus has not died for.

You will always find people called to be a part of the same family as you. And when you do, tell them of the wonderful home in heaven—it’s going to be the biggest and happiest family reunion ever! It’s yours and theirs because of the blood of Jesus which makes us all the family of God. For “‘all mankind will come and bow down before me,’ says the LORD” (Isa 66:23). What a reunion that day will be!

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for making me part of your forever family Thank you for loving people from every country and every place. Please help me see everyone as someone you love and help me share your love with them. 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

• What’s the farthest place you’ve ever been? How did you get there?
• What is a “Gentile”? (Hint: it’s a word for people who aren’t Jewish.)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is the one thing that makes all people part of God’s family?
• The Bible says, “There is no difference between Jew and Gentile.” What do you think that means?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree or Disagree: Since God wants all people to be part of his family, that means we have something in common with every single person in the whole world.
• If you could go on your dream vacation anywhere in the world, where would you go? Think of the people you would meet. How could you show them that they are part of God’s family too?

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Read: Hebrews 12:1-13

Endure hardship as discipline; God is treating you as his children. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Hebrews 12:7,11

Why Discipline Hurts—and Helps

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

Have you ever been in trouble for being disrespectful? Maybe you said something unkind to your mom. Later, your dad finds out. You admit what you did—but you know a consequence is coming. Maybe you get a timeout. Maybe you lose screen time. Maybe you even get a spanking. And then Dad says, “This hurts me more than it hurts you.”

There’s a reason parents say things like that. They’re not trying to be mean. They’re trying to help you grow.

The Bible says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it” (Hebrews 12:11). That means that even though discipline can feel hard, it helps us learn what’s right. That’s why your parents give consequences—not to hurt you, but because they love you and want you to learn.

The author of Hebrews captures the feelings of father and child when he says, “No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.” God is the same way. He gives us discipline too—not because he’s mad, but because he’s a loving Father. Discipline equals love and it helps train us.

Now here’s something really important: There is a difference between discipline and punishment.

• Punishment is getting the full penalty for something you did wrong.
• Discipline is a loving way to teach you and help you grow.

We all deserved punishment because of our sin. But Jesus already took that punishment for us when he died on the cross. The Bible says, “For the joy set before him, [Jesus] endured the cross” (Hebrews 12:2). That joy was you—Jesus wanted to save you because he loves you! Now, because of Jesus, we don’t need to fear punishment anymore.

When you go through something hard, “Do not lose heart; endure hardship as discipline; run with perseverance the race marked out for you.” How? By fixing your eyes on what never moves. Jesus. And fix your eyes on your Father who trains you in love and calls you his true children.

When we go through something hard, we can remember: God isn’t punishing us. He’s teaching us. He’s helping us grow. He’s treating us like his own children. And he loves us. Always.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for taking the full punishment of my sins away so I never have to be afraid. When life is hard, help me endure it by remembering that you are using it to teach me and it’s for my good. In your name I pray, 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

• How do feel when a parent says, “You’re in trouble”? (That’s punishment.)
• How do you feel when a parent says, “I want to help you grow”? (That’s discipline.)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What’s the difference between discipline and punishment? (Discipline helps you grow. Punishment gives a penalty. Jesus took our punishment already!)
• Why is discipline a good thing—even when it’s hard? (It helps us learn and grow. It shows we’re loved.)

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How does our parents’ discipline help us understand what God’s discipline is? (They don’t punish to be mean—they want what’s best for you. God’s the same way.)
• What’s something hard in your life right now? How might God be using it to teach or help you? (Example: A friendship problem, schoolwork, or moving. God might be helping me grow stronger or more patient.)

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Read: Luke 12:22-34

But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well. Luke 12:31

Jesus Is Your Greatest Treasure!

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

Kids love treasure stories. Maybe they have dreamed of finding a chest full of gold coins and shiny jewelry. Some might have even dug in their backyard or at the beach, hoping to discover something amazing. When kids grow up, they might start thinking treasure means other things—like lots of money, good health, or a cool job.

But in today’s Bible story, Jesus says there is an even better treasure—one you don’t have to dig for! It’s being part of God’s kingdom with Jesus as the King of kings.

Why is that such a treasure? Because when someone belongs to God’s kingdom, they get amazing gifts: forgiveness for all their sins, a place in heaven, and eternal life with God forever.

That’s not all. God, our Father in heaven, watches over his children and promises to provide everything they need—food to eat, clothes to wear, and a safe place to live. But the best gift of all is Jesus, our Savior, who guards and protects us.

Sometimes kids worry about losing their toys or about school or their families. But Jesus reminds us not to worry. Instead, he tells us to trust God to take care of all our needs.

Jesus says, “Don’t worry about tomorrow—focus on God’s kingdom today.” That means looking to Jesus as the greatest treasure. He’s with us now, and he’s preparing a wonderful home for us in heaven.

So, whenever worries come, kids can pray and trust God’s love. God’s kingdom is the best treasure—and it lasts forever!

Prayer:

Dear Father, thank you for Jesus, our treasure, who brings us to your kingdom. Help us trust you and not worry. 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 God promise to give us every day?
• Who is the greatest treasure God has given us?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is something that makes you worry? How can you pray about it?
• Why is being part of God’s kingdom better than toys or money?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How can trusting God help you stop worrying about school or family?
• What are some ways you can think about God’s kingdom every day?

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After this, the word of the LORD came to Abram in a vision: “Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward.” But Abram said, “Sovereign LORD, what can you give me since I remain childless and the one who will inherit my estate is Eliezer of Damascus?” And Abram said, “You have given me no children; so a servant in my household will be my heir.” Then the word of the LORD came to him: “This man will not be your heir, but a son who is your own flesh and blood will be your heir.” He took him outside and said, “Look up at the sky and count the stars—if indeed you can count them.” Then he said to him, “So shall your offspring be.” Abram believed the LORD, and he credited it to him as righteousness.
Genesis 15:1-6

God’s Promises Shine Bright

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

What’s something a kid might want really badly? A new video game? A best friend? More time before school starts again? Everyone has wishes—even people in the Bible.

A long time ago, there was a man named Abram. God had already blessed Abram in big ways—he had land, animals, and lots of servants. God had even protected him from enemies and promised to stay with him. But even with all that, Abram’s heart was still sad. There was something he wanted more than anything else.

What did he want? A son. Abram had no children, and he was getting old. He thought maybe his servant would get everything he owned someday. So Abram did something important: he talked to God about it.

And guess what? God listened. Just like a loving father listens to his child. God took Abram outside, under the starry sky, and said, “Look up! Count the stars—if you can. That’s how big your family will be someday!” God promised Abram a son. But not just a son—a huge family would come from him. And even more amazing—Jesus the Savior would be born from that family line!

Sometimes kids feel like their prayers don’t matter. But that’s not true! Just like God heard Abram, God hears you. He wants you to talk to him about your hopes, worries, and dreams.

We may not always get exactly what we want, but we can trust God always gives us what we need. He already gave us the most important gift—Jesus! Jesus died and rose again to open the way to heaven. Now we have something better than anything money can buy: God’s love and the promise of forever with him.

So, whenever you feel sad or unsure, look up like Abram did—God’s promises still shine bright!

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for listening to our prayers and giving us Jesus, our Savior. Help us trust your promises like Abram did. 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 did Abram want more than anything else?
• What promise did God give him instead of just a son?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What’s something you really wish for? How could you pray to God about it?
• Why is Jesus a better treasure than toys or games?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How does praying to God help you feel better or trust him more?
• Why is God’s promise of a Savior the best gift ever?

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Read: Colossians 3:1-11

Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Colossians 3:2,3

What if You Could Be Invisible?

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

Have you ever wished you could turn invisible?

Most kids have! Why? Because if you’re invisible, people can’t see you. You could sneak cookies from the kitchen, stay up past bedtime, or play hide-and-seek and never be found!

But think about this: being invisible could also mean doing good things without anyone knowing. Like helping someone pick up their books or writing a kind note—and never telling anyone it was you.

Did you know that the Bible talks about something kind of like being invisible? In Colossians, it says, “You died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.” What does that mean?

It means that when you believe in Jesus, something amazing happens: God sees Jesus instead of your mistakes. Your sins? Gone. Invisible. Jesus died on the cross to take them all away. And now? Your future with Jesus is already safe. It’s like you’ve already got a seat waiting for you in heaven. Even if people don’t always see your good choices or love, God sees it all—and he’s proud of you.

So, how do we live like people who already belong in heaven?

The Bible says we should “put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature” and remember that Jesus is our life. That means we care more about the people Jesus loves and care less about ourselves and things for us.

Here’s a way to picture it: Imagine you went on a trip to another country. You had to use their money while you were there. But when it’s time to go home, that money isn’t useful anymore. What do you do with it? You leave it for others who CAN use it!

Think about God-stuff, not just world-stuff. Remember that your old life is gone and now your real life is safe with Jesus!

Prayer:

“Whom have I in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever” (Psalm 73:25-26). 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

• Have you ever tried to hide something so no one could see it? How does it make you feel to know Jesus makes your sins invisible to God?
• What’s one loving thing you could do for someone—even if no one notices but God?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Do you have something special that you keep hidden or in a safe place? What is it?
• How is that like God keeping your life safe with Jesus in heaven?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• The Bible says to “put to death” our sins. That means to stop doing wrong and follow Jesus. What’s one bad habit you want to leave behind?
• Imagine your money is like the cash from the board game Monopoly. It’s money that only works here on earth. How does the thought of heavenly treasure change how you view earthly money?

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Read: Luke 11:1-13

One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, “Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.” He said to them, “When you pray, say: “‘Father, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come. Give us each day our daily bread. Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us. And lead us not into temptation.’” Luke 11:1-4

Prayer Moves Your Heart Toward God, Not God Towards You

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

So far this week, we’ve learned two things about prayer:

1. God tells us to pray to help us trust him more.
2. God wants us to pray for what he wants, not just what we want.

Now we learn something new: Prayer brings our hearts closer to God—not the other way around.

Some people think prayer is just a way to tell God what we want and then hope he gives it to us. But Jesus gives us a special prayer called the Lord’s Prayer—and it teaches us to pray for things that we probably wouldn’t pray for if Jesus didn’t tell us to!

Let’s look at the Lord’s Prayer and what it really means:

• “Hallowed be your name” – That means, “God, your name is holy.” But sometimes we’re too busy to stop and thank God just for being awesome.
• “Your kingdom come” – That means, “Let more people believe in you.” But sometimes we only want what helps our plans.
• “Your will be done” – That means, “God, do what you know is best.” Even when we’d rather tell God what to do!
• “Give us today our daily bread” – That means, “Please give us what we need today.” Not everything we want, just what we need.
• “Forgive us our sins as we forgive others” – That means, “God, forgive me, and help me forgive others too.” Even people we don’t want to forgive!
• “Lead us not into temptation” – That means, “Help me stay away from things that could lead me to sin.”
• “Deliver us from evil” – That means, “God, protect me from all harm—even the sin in my own heart.”

Here’s something amazing: God doesn’t need us to pray these things for his plans to work. He’s going to do what’s best anyway! But Jesus still teaches us how to pray—because he loves us.

It’s like when a parent helps a little child say, “May I please have a banana?” The child is learning how to ask, not just demand. And the parent is happy to teach them because they love them!

God does the same. He teaches us how to talk to him—with love, trust, and the right words. And the more we pray like Jesus, the more we start to sound like Jesus too.

Prayer:

Dear God, teach me your ways. Help me trust you with my whole heart. I will praise you, because your love is great and you have saved me. Amen. (shortened version of Psalm 86)

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 gave us special words to pray in the Lord’s Prayer?
• How does it feel to know that Jesus gave you the exact right words to pray?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does the Lord’s Prayer teach us about what God wants?
• What do you think it means to pray “your will be done” instead of just asking for only what you want?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Do you ever say things just like your parents? Can you think of anything you say that sounds like something Jesus said?
• Which part of the Lord’s Prayer is the hardest for you to say—and really mean? Why?

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Read: Genesis 18:20-32

Then the LORD said, “The outcry against Sodom and Gomorrah is so great and their sin so grievous that I will go down and see if what they have done is as bad as the outcry that has reached me. If not, I will know.” But Abraham remained standing before the LORD and said: “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked? What if there are fifty righteous people in the city? Will you really sweep it away and not spare the place for the sake of the fifty righteous people in it? The LORD said, “If I find fifty righteous people in the city of Sodom, I will spare the whole place for their sake.” Then Abraham spoke up again: “what if the number of the righteous is five less than fifty? Will you destroy the whole city for lack of five people?” “If I find forty-five there,” he said, “I will not destroy it.” Once again [Abraham] spoke, “What if only forty are found there?” He said, “For the sake of forty, I will not do it.” Then he said, “What if only thirty can be found there?” He answered, “I will not do it if I find thirty there.” Abraham said, “what if only twenty can be found there?” He said, “For the sake of twenty, I will not destroy it.” Then he said, “May the Lord not be angry, but let me speak just once more. What if only ten can be found there?” He answered, “For the sake of ten, I will not destroy it.”
Genesis 18:20-32 (selected verses)

Can We Change the Mind of God?

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

Have you ever thought of prayer like placing an order at a restaurant? You tell God what you want, then wait and hope he gives you what you asked for. But prayer isn’t just asking for stuff—it’s talking with God and learning from him. In our three devotions this week, we will see three aspects of prayer.

First, we learn about a man named Abraham. One day, God told Abraham he was going to destroy two very sinful cities: Sodom and Gomorrah. But Abraham prayed! He kept asking God, “What if there are 50 good people? What about 45? What if there are only 10?” And it looked like God changed his mind!

But did he really? The Bible says, “God is not human, that he should lie, not a human being, that he should change his mind.” (Numbers 23:19). So maybe the point wasn’t that Abraham changed God—but that God was teaching Abraham something through prayer.

Think of it this way: a man puts up a shelf in his house. He pushes on it a little to see how strong it is. Then he pushes a little harder . . . and harder . . . until it starts to crack. That’s when he knows how much the shelf can hold!

Prayer is kind of like that. When we pray, we’re pressing on what we know about God. He is perfectly fair and just but also loving and forgiving. How can God punish sin and still forgive people? That’s what Abraham was wondering, and he brought those questions to God in prayer.

So maybe prayer isn’t about changing God’s mind. Maybe it’s about God changing ours. Let prayer become a spiritual exercise, “pressing down” on God’s truth. As we talk to him, we learn to trust him more and understand his heart and his ways better.

Prayer:

Lord, thank you for listening when I pray. When I’m scared or sad, you hear me and help me. You are kind and full of love. Help me trust you more every day. 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

• Have you ever asked God for something in a prayer? What did you say to him?
• Why do you think Abraham kept asking God instead of giving up after the first time?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• The devotion said prayer is like “pressing down” on God’s truth. What do you think that means? (Try thinking of the shelf example!)
• God already knows everything—so why do you think he still wants us to pray?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Prayer doesn’t always change God’s mind, but it can change ours. How might prayer change yours today?
• Sometimes God feels like he is two things at once—just (he punishes sin) and merciful (he forgives). What’s something about God that’s hard to understand? How could praying help you with that?

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Read: Colossians 1:1-14

We always thank God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, when we pray for you, because we have heard of your faith in Christ Jesus and of the love you have for all God’s people—the faith and love that spring from the hope stored up for you in heaven and about which you have already heard in the true message of the gospel that has come to you. In the same way, the gospel is bearing fruit and growing throughout the whole world—just as it has been doing among you since the day you heard it and truly understood God’s grace. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience. For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Colossians 1:1-14 (selected verses)

The Good News That Gives Everything

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

Have you ever heard of something called minimalism? That’s when people try to live with only the things they really need, not a bunch of extra stuff. For example, a minimalist might have just a few outfits in their closet, not tons of clothes. Their garage or room might look really clean and simple.

Some people are minimalists with their money—they only buy what they need. Some are minimalists with their time, they don’t sign up for everything, just what matters most. Some even live without furniture! (Can you imagine sitting on the floor all the time?) But no matter how they do it, the big idea is this: you don’t need a lot to be okay.

And guess what? Jesus talked about this too! In Luke 10:42, Jesus said, “Only one thing is needed.” Just one! So, what is it? Is it food? Water? Air? Those things are important . . . but Jesus says there’s something even more important. It’s the gospel.

The gospel means “good news.” It’s the simple and powerful message that Jesus is your Savior. That’s the one thing we need more than anything else in life!

Why is the gospel so important? Look at what it gives you (Colossians 1 tells us all this!):

• Faith—so you can believe in Jesus and go to heaven.
• Hope—so you can trust God with your future.
• Wisdom—so you can learn more about God.
• Strength—so you can live the way God wants.
• Patience—so you can handle tough days.
• Forgiveness—for every sin, not just a few!

That’s a lot of amazing stuff from one simple message!

But most of all, the gospel gives you Jesus. Jesus is the one thing you really need. He loves you so much that he died for your sins and promises to bring you to heaven. Jesus is everything. And that’s what the gospel gives you.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being the one thing I need most. Help me always trust the gospel about you. 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 Jesus said, “Only one thing is needed,” what was he talking about?
• Why is the gospel such good news?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What are some amazing things the gospel gives us, according to Colossians 1?
• Which one of those do you feel like you need most right now?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What would you say to this: “If the gospel is all I need, I don’t need to go to church, pray, or help others.” Is that right? Why or why not?
• Why is the gospel more important than even food or water? (Hint: Without food or water, you can physically die. But without the gospel, you can…)

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