Read: Acts 3:1-10

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.
Acts 3:6-8

Powerful Words for You

 

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

“Touch your nose and jump on one foot,” Lauren said. No one moved . . . except Zach. Zach did just what Lauren said—he touched his nose and jumped on one foot. Everyone started laughing. Zach joined them in laughing because he realized what he did wrong. Lauren didn’t say the magic words, “Simon says.”

Do you like playing “Simon says”? Are you good at playing that game? It’s very easy to play. When the leader speaks those special words, “Simon says,” then you do whatever they say. If the leader doesn’t say, “Simon says,” then you’re not supposed to do what they say. It can be very funny to watch a group of kids do all sorts of crazy and silly things when the leader speaks those special words.

Peter spoke some special words in the story today. Peter said, “In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk.” Then amazingly, a man who was not able to walk his entire life suddenly got up and walked around. He was so filled with joy that he went near God’s house, the temple, and was walking, jumping, and praising God!

What Peter did wasn’t magic or part of a game. It wasn’t done by his own power either. Peter healed the man with the power of Jesus. The same Jesus who healed people himself and who healed us from our sins gave Peter the power to speak these words and heal this man. This miracle helped to prove to other people how powerful Jesus is.

Jesus gives us powerful words to speak, too. We have his Word to share with other people. So when you tell someone that Jesus is our Savior and they believe it, God used the message that you spoke to work faith in their heart. When someone is mean to you and you say “I forgive you,” that person is forgiven just as much as if Jesus himself would say it. That’s powerful! When a pastor baptizes someone and says, “I baptize you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” then God washes that person clean and welcomes them into his family. That’s powerful!

The words of Jesus are always powerful. That means the Bible is something for us to love and treasure. It also means that we can boldly share his words with others. When we do these things, we can trust that God will always be at work powerfully within us!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, help me to treasure your Word and to trust its mighty power. Help me also to be boldly share the good news of Jesus with 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

• What was wrong with the man that Peter healed one day?
• How was Peter able to do this miracle?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How does God’s Word still work powerfully today?
• Why is knowing that God’s Word is powerful comforting to us?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• If God’s Word is so powerful, why are some people still unbelievers?
• Describe what a Christian who is a bold witness for Jesus might do.

Hymn: CW 353:1,3 – Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness

Praise the one who breaks the darkness With a liberating light;
Praise the one who frees the pris’ners, Turning blindness into sight.
Praise the one who preached the gospel, Healing ev’ry dread disease,
Calming storms and feeding thousands With the Father’s word of peace.

Let us praise the Word incarnate, Christ, who suffered in our place;
Jesus died and rose victorious That we may know God by grace.
Let us sing for joy and gladness, Seeing what our God has done;
Let us praise the true Redeemer, Praise the one who makes us one.

 

Read: Mark 7:31-37

Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of the Decapolis. There some people brought to him a man who was deaf and could hardly talk, and they begged Jesus to place his hand on him.

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.

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 7:31-37

Words of Power

 

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

“Quiet, please!” the teacher said. Suddenly all the talking in the classroom stopped. “Attention!” barked the army sergeant, and all the troops stopped what they were doing and stood perfectly still like statues. “Stop!” said the police officer who was directing traffic. All the people waited at the corner for cars to pass by and for the command to walk across the street.

There are a lot of people who have power and authority in their words. When they speak, people listen. When they say something, things happen. The coach tells her team what play to run. The teacher tells his students what they should do next. We respect and listen to people who are leaders because we know that their words are important.

This is even more true with Jesus! Did you hear his power today? Jesus said one word in his language—Ephphatha—and a man who couldn’t hear or speak suddenly was healed. Incredible!

But we shouldn’t be too surprised! This is what our God has always done. God simply spoke in the beginning, and he created the heavens and the earth. He spoke his promises, and they were always fulfilled. Then God came here in human flesh, and Jesus did the same. He spoke, and he calmed a storm. He spoke, and he healed people. He spoke, and he raised people from the dead. And best of all, Jesus said “It is finished” on the cross, and all our sins were paid for and the gates of heaven were opened for us. When God speaks, amazing things happen!

Since God’s words are powerful, true, and trustworthy, it is our joy as Christians to simply listen to God speak in his Word. We may have troubles and difficult things happen in our lives, but just like the man in the story, God comes to us and speaks words of power, love, and forgiveness. Trust God and his words. They are always powerful and always true!

Closing Prayer:

God, you have the power to heal both body and soul. Help me to trust what you say in your mighty Word. 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 Jesus use his words to do in the story today?
• Think of at least two amazing things has God done simply by speaking?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How do we know for sure that God’s Word is powerful?
• If God’s Word is so powerful, what does that mean for our time in devotions, Bible studies, or church?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why doesn’t God need to perform miracles today like he did in this story?
• God’s Word is more powerful than your words. Explain why that is comforting for Christians when we share our faith with other people.

Hymn: CW 353:1 – Praise the One Who Breaks the Darkness

Praise the one who breaks the darkness With a liberating light;
Praise the one who frees the pris’ners, Turning blindness into sight.
Praise the one who preached the gospel, Healing ev’ry dread disease,
Calming storms and feeding thousands With the Father’s word of peace.

 

Read: Deuteronomy 4:1,2,6-9

Now, Israel, hear the decrees and laws I am about to teach you. Follow them so that you may live and may go in and take possession of the land the Lord, the God of your ancestors, is giving you. Do not add to what I command you and do not subtract from it, but keep the commands of the Lord your God that I give you. Only be careful, and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them.
Deuteronomy 4:1,2,9

Listen!

 

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

Henry was not happy. He lowered his head at his desk and was holding back the tears. He couldn’t believe what he saw on his history test—a big, red F. Meanwhile, Harriet next to him was nearly bouncing out of her chair. She couldn’t believe it either! Her test had a big, red A+ and a smiley face on it. They both sat through all the same classes together, but their grades were so different. What happened?

Well, Henry did not take history very seriously. Every day he drew silly pictures while the teacher talked instead of taking good notes. He heard what the teacher said, but he didn’t really listen to the teacher. Because he didn’t listen carefully, Henry remembered nothing on the test. He ended up leaving out some important information, and he even added some wrong things to the questions about Abraham Lincoln.

But Harriet did just the opposite. She knew that history class was very important. She listened very carefully and took notes so she would remember everything. She even reviewed and studied a little bit every day so that she would be ready for the test. Sure enough, Harriet passed the test easily because she listened, she was careful, and she remembered.

When it comes to God’s Word, are you more like Henry or more like Harriet?

Just before the Israelites entered the Promised Land, Moses gave them one final speech. He wanted to teach them to be like Harriet—to listen to God’s Word, to be careful, and to remember. Sadly, most of the Israelites were more like Henry. They heard what Moses said, but they didn’t really listen to him. They forgot many of God’s commands. They left out things in his Word and they added some of their own things. When it came to temptations and tests, they failed miserably and sinned. Many failed so badly they even fell away from God.

We can learn from the Israelites. It’s so important for us to hear God’s Word and listen carefully. That means that we listen to God’s commands, we talk about them, and we work on remembering to keep them. That means that we listen to the good news of God’s forgiveness for all of our sins, we talk about it regularly, and we encourage each other with that good news. Moses was right! It’s important to treasure God’s Word every day, and it’s important for parents to teach it to their children. When God’s Word is the center of your life, many blessings will follow! May God help us to hear his Word and to listen to it carefully.

Closing Prayer:

Lord God, always open my ears to hear your Word and then open my heart and mind to listen to what you have to say. 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 are times that you can hear God’s Word?
• Why do we want to listen carefully to God’s Word?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Describe the attitudes and behaviors of people who don’t listen to God’s Word.
• Describe two ways that you can be a better listener to what God says.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree: It’s not a big deal to miss going to church for a week or two here or there. Explain your answer.
• When you grow older in life, how will you make God’s Word a regular part of your life?

Hymn: CW 376:3-4 – Jesus, Your Blood and Righteousness

Lord, I believe your precious blood, Which at the very throne of God
Forever will for sinners plead, For me—e’en for my soul—was shed.

Lord, I believe were sinners more Than sands upon the ocean shore,
You have for all a ransom paid, For all a full atonement made.

 

Read: Hebrews 11:24-28

By faith Moses, when he had grown up, refused to be known as the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to be mistreated along with the people of God rather than to enjoy the fleeting pleasures of sin. He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.
Hebrews 11:24-26

Worth More than Anything

 

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

If you could have anything and everything you ever wanted, would you take it? What if you had so much money you could buy anything you want—like big screen TVs and every game system, or a new bike every day, or even your own personal llama! What if you could do anything you want at any time, and no one could ever stop you? Would that be amazingly awesome? Or maybe, possibly, do you think that could be amazingly awful?

If you could have anything you want or do anything you want, do you think you might become greedy? Is it possible that your heart would love money and possessions too much? Do you think you might do some sinful things? Is it possible that you might be led away from God?

This might seem like an impossible situation for us, but this was a real-life situation for Moses. Moses had been adopted by the daughter of Pharaoh, the king of Egypt. Moses could have bought anything he ever wanted. He could have done anything he ever wanted. No one could stop him because he was in the king’s palace. He could have been rich and powerful. And yet, Moses chose not to take all of that. Instead, he chose to be treated badly along with his fellow Israelite people.

Why would Moses do that? The Bible writer to the Hebrews gives us two reasons. First, he says that Moses chose to be with God’s people instead of all the pleasures of sin. All that money and power would have led him away from God, not closer to God. Then the writer says this, “He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt, because he was looking ahead to his reward.” This means that Moses understood that God had something better to offer. The treasures that God offers are much better than king’s clothing or a king’s palace or riches and power. God offers the riches of his love as our heavenly Father. God offers all of his power as he protects us and provides for us. God offers us the riches of eternal life in heaven. What could ever be better than all that?

It might be very easy to look at all the things of the world around us and to wish that we had what other people have. “If only I had more money . . . If only I was famous,” we might think. But today we learn a valuable lesson from the Bible and from Moses. God gave us the greatest treasure of all—Jesus our Savior. Through Jesus we have endless spiritual riches here and in heaven. And that is worth more than anything!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, help me to stay away from the sins of this world. Instead, lead me to follow you. Fill me with your love that I may live for 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

• Why could Moses have had anything or done anything if he wanted?
• What did Moses consider to be more valuable than worldly things?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do money and possessions often lead people away from God?
• Explain why Jesus is more valuable than anything here in this world.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What things in this world do you think Satan might use try and lead you away from Jesus? Explain your answers.
• If God blesses you with children one day, how would you teach them that Jesus is more important than worldly things?

Hymn: CW 506:1,4-5 – Oh, Bless the House, Whate’er Befall

Oh, blest the house, whate’er befall,
Where Jesus Christ is all in all!
A home that is not wholly his—
How sad and poor and dark it is!

Blest such a house; it prospers well.
In peace and joy the parents dwell,
And in their children’s lives is shown
How richly God can bless his own.

Then here will I and mine today
A solemn promise make and say:
Though all the world forsake his Word,
I and my house will serve the Lord!

 

Read: John 6:60-69

Simon Peter answered him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and to know that you are the Holy One of God.”
John 6:68,69

Where Else Would We Go?

 

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

Mr. Fluffers was a good dog. His family loved him and his fluffy fur so much! But what they loved the most was that Mr. Fluffers was a faithful dog that kept coming back to them. You see, in their neighborhood, dogs seemed to run all over the place. Some escaped from their fenced-in yards. Some ran too fast for their owners. And lots of passing cars and stray cats made every dog chase down the street—except Mr. Fluffers.

Mr. Fluffers would sometimes go to the edge of the yard. Sometimes he would run and bark at cats running by. Sometimes he even seemed to disappear for a bit of time. But he always came back. Mr. Fluffers seemed to know that at home he was safe and fed and loved so much. Why would Mr. Fluffers chase any silly cat or leave the yard when everything he could ever want or need was right there at his loving home?

When it comes to Jesus, do you act more like Mr. Fluffers or more like the rest of the dogs in the neighborhood? So many things can distract us in life. Other things might seem more fun than reading the Bible, having a devotion, or going to church. TV, movies, and video games might seem to be a better way to spend our time. As people get older, sometimes they even find that sinful things are more enjoyable, or they might think that working and making money is more important than time with Jesus in his Word or in church.

At one time during Jesus’ life, there were many people who got distracted and left him. Some didn’t believe in Jesus. Others couldn’t understand what he was teaching them about how he was the bread that gives life to people. So they simply left. That’s when Jesus turned to his disciples and asked if they were going to leave, too. Peter had a beautiful response! He said, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and know that you are the Holy One of God.”

Peter is so right! Why would we want to go anywhere else? Why would we leave Jesus when he spiritually feeds us, keeps us safe, and loves us so much? Why would we turn to anything else when Jesus gives us everything we could ever want or need spiritually? Jesus provides for us daily. He forgives our sins and welcomes us to his family. He even gives to us the sure hope of life with him in heaven. What a joy to know, like Peter, that Jesus is “the Holy One of God!”

Closing Prayer:

Jesus, please help us not to get distracted by the things of this life, but always to come to you for healing, help, and hope. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Why were many people leaving Jesus?
• What did Jesus ask his disciples? How did they respond?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What might lead people who believe in Jesus to leave him and follow other things?
• How can we keep ourselves from being distracted by the things of this life?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Identify what you think are the biggest distractions that lead people away from Jesus in the world right now. Explain your answers.
• Agree/Disagree: It is easier for Christians in America to be distracted in their faith than Christians in other countries. Explain your answer.

Hymn: CW 506:1-2 – Oh, Bless the House, Whate’er Befall

Oh, blest the house, whate’er befall,
Where Jesus Christ is all in all!
A home that is not wholly his—
How sad and poor and dark it is!

Oh, blest that house where faith you find
And all within have set their mind
To trust their God and serve him still
And do in all his holy will.

 

Read: Proverbs 9:1-6

Wisdom has built her house;
she has set up its seven pillars.
She has prepared her meat and mixed her wine;
she has also set her table.
She has sent out her servants, and she calls
from the highest point of the city,
“Let all who are simple come to my house!”
Proverbs 9:1-4

Now I Get It!

 

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

Lucy was stuck. It felt like she had been working on her math problem for hours (it really had been only ten minutes). She knew how to add and subtract, to multiply and divide. In fact, Lucy was very good at math. But this problem made no sense to her. Finally, Lucy’s teacher came over. “Lucy, can I help you with that?”

“Yes, please!” she begged. The teacher spent a few minutes and walked her through the problem. She explained each part of the problem until Lucy had all the numbers ready to solve it. “Oh! Now I get it! Thank you so much!”

Lucy was very smart, but she needed some help with wisdom. Wisdom is a little bit different than how smart you are. When you are wise you can think carefully about something, understand it, and make good choices. Lucy’s teacher helped her gain wisdom in solving the math problem.

Today’s Bible verses may sound a bit confusing, but they are actually very simple. Wisdom is being pictured as a person inviting people over to the house for a big dinner. It’s like pretending Wisdom is saying, “Come on over for a party so you can become more wise.”

It may seem silly, but it’s a beautiful picture, especially when we understand who is the one that makes us so wise—Jesus. Jesus is the one who invites us to learn more about him. Jesus is the one who wants us to know how much he loves us. Jesus is the one who wants us to know that we are invited to the greatest dinner party of all time—the feast of eternal life in heaven.

Earlier this week we heard about people who were very confused when Jesus told them he is the Bread of Life. Our prayer today and every day is that Jesus can give us wisdom to solve this problem. We can pray that Jesus helps us to know that to eat the Bread of Life means to believe in Jesus and have life in his name. When we understand that, we too can say, “Oh! Now I get it! Thank you so much, Jesus, for giving me wisdom!”

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, give me wisdom to put my faith and trust in you at all times, until you lead me safely home to heaven. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What is the best meal or dinner you have ever had? Why?
• What do you think it will be like to celebrate at what the Bible calls the feast of heaven?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Explain the difference between being smart and being wise.
• Why is wisdom something important to have in your life?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Describe how someone would grow in spiritual knowledge and then how someone would grow in spiritual wisdom.
• Identify stories in the Bible where someone (besides Jesus) acted with spiritual wisdom.

Hymn: CW 331:1-2 – Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah

Guide me, O thou great Jehovah,
Pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but thou art mighty;
Hold me with thy pow’rful hand.
Bread of heaven, Feed me till I want no more.

Open now the crystal fountain
Whence the healing stream doth flow;
Let the fiery, cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through.
Strong Deliv’rer, Be thou still my strength and shield.

 

Read: Ephesians 4:30-5:2

Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.
Ephesians 4:31-5:2

Kindness, Please!

 

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

“Kindness, please.” As a kindergarten teacher, Kayla felt like she said that phrase a hundred times a day at school. Kayla said it to her students when they wouldn’t share during play time. “Kindness, please.” Kayla said it when she saw first and second graders cutting in line in front of other people, “Kindness, please.” She said it over and over to the big kids at school too when they were mean in the hallways or yelled at each other during recess. “Kindness, please!”

Why is it so hard for us to be kind and loving to other people? There are probably many reasons, but maybe one reason is bigger than the rest. The devil wants you to love a certain someone more than you love other people. You know who that someone is? You! Satan wants you to love yourself more than other people.

So when children think of themselves first, they don’t want to share with friends at school. When children think of themselves first, they cut to the front of the line or say mean things to other students or cheat to win games at recess. Adults do similar things. When adults put themselves first, they aren’t so good at being nice to other people. We don’t realize it very often, but all of our anger or mean words and actions come from the fact that we are loving ourselves more than we are loving other people.

The apostle Paul helps us to rethink and repent. He wants us to turn away from that sin and to love God and other people before we love ourselves. That’s why Paul said, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other.”

But why would we do that? Why would we put others first? Paul tells us: “In Christ God forgave you.” God has shown us the ultimate kindness in his Son Jesus. Jesus came to this world and put us first. He lived for us. He died for us. He rose for us. All this he did so that we could be God’s children and live with him forever. And we hear this great encouragement today, “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” Since we are God’s dearly loved children, we can live just like Jesus did, putting others first.

Think about how you can show love to others first. Share with your friends. Let someone else go before you. Try complimenting and saying nice things about others. Listen to parents and teachers. God says in his Word, “Kindness, please,” and what a joy it is for us to show others the love and kindness that God has shown to us.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, fill my heart with your love that I may go and show love and kindness to other people. 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 has Jesus shown kindness to us?
• How can you show kindness and love to someone at school?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Explain why being mean to other people comes from loving yourself more than other people.
• Why does Jesus’ love for us help us to be more loving to other people?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Explain why loving yourself more than other people also breaks the First Commandment.
• Discuss with your family two ways that each of you can show more kindness and love to others this week.

Hymn: CWS 750:1,5-6 – Christ, the Word of God Incarnate

Christ, the Word of God incarnate, Lord and Son of Abraham;
Christ, the radiance of the Father, Perfect God, the great I Am;
Christ, the Light, you shine unvanquished, Light and life you bring to all;
Light our path with your own presence, Grant us grace to heed your call.

Christ, the way that leads unfailing To the Father’s home on high;
Christ, the truth that frees the captive; Christ, the life that cannot die.
Mediator to the Father, Sacrifice and Great High Priest:
Lead us to your heav’nly mansions, There to share your wedding feast.

Christ, the Alpha and Omega; Christ, the firstborn from the dead;
Christ, the life and resurrection; Christ, the Church’s glorious head:
Praise and thanks and adoration And unending worship be
To the Father and the Spirit And to you eternally.

 

 

Read: John 6:41-51

“Stop grumbling among yourselves,” Jesus answered. “Very truly I tell you, the one who believes has eternal life. I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the wilderness, yet they died. But here is the bread that comes down from heaven, which anyone may eat and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven. Whoever eats this bread will live forever. This bread is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world.”
John 6:43, 47-51

Eat the Right Bread

 

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

“How can it be?” they thought. “This doesn’t make any sense!”

The Jewish people were frustrated, confused, and upset. Jesus recently fed more than 5,000 people with an amazing miracle. Now many came to him because they wanted more—more food, more miracles, more amazing things. They wanted Jesus to be an earthly king to give them whatever they wanted.

That’s when Jesus told them they were looking for the wrong kind of bread. Jesus said that he was the “bread of life” who came from heaven. This is what confused them. How could Jesus say he came from heaven? Wasn’t he the carpenter’s son from Nazareth? How could he say he came from God if he looks like another ordinary person? How could Jesus be special if he wouldn’t give them the things they wanted?

Do you ever have this problem with Jesus? Wouldn’t it be nice if Jesus immediately healed you every time you got hurt? What if Jesus made it so that you never got sick? Or what if Jesus made you rich with lots of money? Sometimes, like the Jews, we want Jesus to be more of an earthly king than a heavenly king.

Jesus reminds us today that we shouldn’t only look for earthly “bread.” Jesus will provide food and clothing and other daily needs. But Jesus reminds us that he gives us something better—himself.

Why is this so important? Well, the Jews of old ate lots of miracle bread called manna, but they still died. We too can have all the best food and possessions and money, but we too will die. That’s why we need a different bread. We need Jesus, the bread who gives life. We need Jesus who conquered sin and death at the cross. We need Jesus who rose from the dead. We need Jesus who gives us a place with him in heaven.

When we eat this bread called Jesus, we aren’t just feeding our bodies. We are feeding our souls. Fill up every day on Jesus, the Bread of Life, and know the life that he gives in his name.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, help us to grow in faith by feeding on you in your Word. 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 your favorite thing in your house?
• Why is Jesus more important than that thing or anything else?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What were the Jewish people looking for from Jesus? Why?
• Why do worldly things sometimes lead people away from Jesus?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Compare and contrast Jesus, the Bread of Life, to regular bread.
• Discuss how your family can better feed on Jesus, the Bread of Life, together.

Hymn: CWS 750:1-2 – Christ, the Word of God Incarnate

Christ, the Word of God incarnate, Lord and Son of Abraham;
Christ, the radiance of the Father, Perfect God, the great I Am;
Christ, the Light, you shine unvanquished, Light and life you bring to all;
Light our path with your own presence, Grant us grace to heed your call.

Christ, the living bread from heaven, Food for body, food for soul;
Christ, the manna, daily given, Nourish, strengthen, make us whole.
Feed us with the food of heaven, Foretaste of the feast to be;
Quench our thirst with living water Springing up eternally.

 

 

Read: Exodus 16:2-20

The LORD said to Moses, “I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God.’”
Exodus 16:11-12

Stop Whining!

 

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

What is your favorite food? Take a moment and think about that favorite food . . . can you picture it? Can you smell it? What are you thinking about? Chocolate chip cookies? Crisp, fresh bacon? Warm apple pie? Something else?

What if God did a crazy miracle and provided that food for you right now? What if an entire room was filled with that food? Or what if that food dropped out of the sky for you to eat like in the movie Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs? What if God provided you with that delicious treat every single day? Wouldn’t that be amazing!

Or . . . do you think that over time you would get sick of that food? Do you think after a while you would start to complain? How long before you didn’t think about the amazing miracle of getting that food, but rather about how you just wanted something different to eat?

This is what happened to the Israelites. What a bunch of whiny complainers! God miraculously brought them out of Egypt. But they complained! They complained they didn’t have water. So God did another miracle to provide water for them. Then they complained some more because they were hungry! Yet rather than punish them, God blessed them. He did another miracle. This time he provided birds called quail and a special bread called manna for them to eat—every single day. They were in a wilderness where there wasn’t much to eat, yet God provided for around two million people every day with good food to eat. But you know what they did? They still complained!

Do you do this too? Ever get sick of your toys or technology, your shoes or your clothes, your car or your house? Ever wish you had something bigger or better? Ever wish you had what other people have? So often we forget about the endless blessings that God has given to us and complain that we want something different, something “better” in our minds.

Take a moment to think, this time not about your favorite food. Take a moment to think about all the things God has blessed you with. Listen to the reason God provided manna and quail for the Israelites. He said, “Then you will know that I am the LORD your God.” Think about your blessings and know that the LORD is your gracious God who has given you everything you have. But even better than cookies or bacon or shoes or phones or cars, God has given to you the best blessings. He has given you his own Son Jesus. He has given to you forgiveness of all your sins. He has given to you all the treasures of heaven that you can enjoy with him for all eternity. No need to complain and ask for something better! God has already given to you the best. Thank God for that!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for providing what I need for both my body and my soul. You have given me the very best, especially your own Son Jesus. Help me always to be thankful. 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 were the two kinds of food that God provided for the Israelites in the wilderness?
• Why did they complain about these things?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• When the Israelites complained so much and so often, why didn’t God destroy them and wipe them out forever?
• Explain how we Christians today sometimes act like the Israelites in the wilderness.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How can Christians better learn to treasure Jesus more than all other things?
• What does it look like when Christians act like Jesus is the best thing in their lives?

Hymn: CW 402:1,3 – My Faith Looks Up to Thee

My faith looks up to thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine.
Now hear me while I pray; Take all my guilt away;
Oh, let me from this day Be wholly thine!

While life’s dark maze I tread And griefs around me spread,
Be thou my guide.
Bid darkness turn to day, Wipe sorrow’s tears away,
Nor let me ever stray From thee aside.

 

 

Read: 2 Corinthians 9:8-11

And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
2 Corinthians 9:8,11

Generous and Thankful

 

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

Everyone was talking about the new video game system. It was awesome! It had all the coolest features, the best graphics, and the best games. Three kids in the class got it already (they had to stand in line for three hours to get it though)! A few other kids were hoping to get it over the weekend. But not CJ. CJ was going to wait a while.

It’s not that CJ didn’t want the new video game system. He really wanted to play on it! And it’s not that CJ didn’t have money. He made good money mowing lawns in his neighborhood. No, CJ was going to wait because he had something more important in mind.

You see, CJ’s parents taught him since he was little to be careful with his money and to be thankful for his blessings. So every time CJ made some money, he saved more than half of what he earned in the bank. Also, CJ regularly gave a part of his lawn mowing money back to God as an offering.

Recently, CJ heard at church that they were trying build a new building. He wanted to help. CJ couldn’t wait to have the new game system like so many of his friends, but he also knew that other things were more important. CJ could wait to have the new system because he wanted to give back to God first.

This week we have heard Bible readings and devotions about God using us and our gifts to do amazing things. Today the apostle Paul makes another important point clear to us—God blesses us by providing what we need in our lives.

Take a moment to think about all that God has provided for you. He graciously gave you the most important things—forgiveness, new life, and salvation in Jesus Christ our Savior. He provides you with clothes and shoes, food and drink, a home, family, friends, and so much more. On top of all these daily needs, God gives so many more blessings than we could even count. God is so good and gracious!

Paul reminds us today that because God has been so generous to us, we can be generous to others. Take a moment today and each day to reflect on God’s rich love and blessings, then think about how you can show thanks and love to God and others.

Closing Prayer:

Gracious God, thank you for showing me such incredible love. You also have given to me so many blessings for daily life. Help me to show you thanks in the ways that I love you and 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

• Can you list three of your favorite blessings that God has given to you?
• What are two ways that you can show love by giving back to others?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does it mean to be generous?
• Explain how God has been generous to you.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why do you think many Christians struggle to be generous with their offerings to the Lord? How can we overcome these struggles?
• What if a family does not have a lot of money or possessions? Can they still be generous? How?

Hymn: CW 469:1,5-6 – Take My Life and Let It Be

Take my life and let it be Consecrated, Lord, to thee.
Take my moments and my days; Let them flow in ceaseless praise.

Take my will and make it thine; It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart—it is thine own; It shall be thy royal throne.

Take my love, my Lord, I pour At thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself, and I will be Ever, only, all for thee.

 

Read: John 6:1-15

After the people saw the sign Jesus performed, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.”
John 6:14

Use Me!

 

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

Kyle wasn’t sure where he fit in. At school, he got cut from the basketball team, he didn’t sing well enough to join a choir, and he was too afraid to try out for the play. At home, Kyle’s sister seemed to get all the attention because of her countless dance practices and performances. At church, many of Kyle’s friends were already playing instruments for services or teaching Sunday school.

Kyle kept wondering, “Do I even matter? What skills do I have? Am I useful to anyone?”

Over time though, the Lord used Kyle’s frustrating moments to help him see his amazing gifts. He wasn’t athletic or musical, but Kyle became a key part of the school’s state champion robotics team. At home, he used his technology brain power to help set up his parents’ computers and the family’s Wi-Fi network. Kyle even got to use those gifts to help with technology at church. He was part of the team that recorded services and produced videos for thousands of people to watch and learn about Jesus online. As it turned out, God used what seemed like little gifts in Kyle to serve many, many people.

The famous story for our consideration today is very similar. The disciples were overwhelmed by the crowd of more than 5,000 people that flocked to Jesus. But Jesus had a plan in mind from the very beginning. He used the five loaves of bread and the two small fish of a young boy to feed the entire crowd. He used the disciples to organize the crowd and then distribute the food and collect the leftovers. But most importantly, Jesus used this situation as an opportunity to reveal himself as “the Prophet who was to come.” In other words, Jesus revealed his power as true God and true man—the Savior who came for all!

What gifts do you have? What do you like to do? What are some of your favorite things? God can use any of these things in our lives—even simple things like loaves of bread and fish—as opportunities for us to serve others in love. But even better, Jesus wants to use you and your gifts to reveal to others that he is the Savior. What a comfort that you matter. Your time and talents and treasures matter. Jesus loves you. Jesus saved you. And now, Jesus wants to use you so that others can know that same wonderful truth.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for revealing yourself as my Savior. Now use me and my gifts to serve you and others in thanks and love. Please use me also to help others know that you are their Savior. 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 were the seven items of food that Jesus used to feed more than 5,000 people?
• How was it possible for Jesus to feed so many people with so few items of food?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why did Jesus have the disciples collect leftovers? What would they learn as they collected that extra food?
• How would you have felt if you were the boy who gave Jesus the bread and fish that day? Why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Explain why this miracle helped the crowd (and helps us) to see that he is the Savior.
• What talents, gifts, or abilities do you have that you could use to serve the Lord right now? What about in the future?

Hymn: CW 469:1-2 – Take My Life and Let It Be

Take my life and let it be Consecrated, Lord, to thee.
Take my moments and my days; Let them flow in ceaseless praise.

Take my hands and let them move At the impulse of thy love.
Take my feet and let them be Swift and beautiful for thee.

 

Read: Numbers 27:12-23

The Lord said to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership, and lay your hand on him. Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly and commission him in their presence. Give him some of your authority so the whole Israelite community will obey him. Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole assembly. Then he laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the Lord instructed through Moses.
Numbers 27:18-20, 22-23

God Provided a Spiritual Leader for His People

 

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

Who leads your family? If right now you’re pointing at someone, is it a parent or another family member? Who leads the United States? It’s the president. In the same way, a boss leads at work. A teacher leads the classroom. Each of these leaders has been set up to direct the family, the country, the job, and the classroom.

Leaders have been set up by God to direct what we do and to reflect what God wants us to do. All leaders have been given their position from the Lord. God’s Word even outlines their responsibilities. Today we see another leader and how the Lord set him apart for his people. The Lord gave his people a spiritual leader. Moses was his name. The Lord set him apart to lead God’s people out of Egypt and to lead them spiritually. God used Moses to give his people the Ten Commandments and to rebuke them when they would sin against the Lord.

In today’s Bible reading, it is time for Moses to be “gathered to his people.” That’s another way of saying Moses was going to die. Moses did not want the people to be without a leader. He asked the Lord for a new leader for his people. The Lord had Joshua set as the next leader. Joshua was presented before the people. In a very special ceremony, God left no doubt that Joshua was the new leader for his people. God said to Moses, “Give him some of your authority so the whole Israelite community will obey him.” God made clear that Joshua would now have the authority and it was given to him by God.

The Lord blesses us with spiritual leaders. We call them pastors, elders, or church leaders. We, too, have special ceremonies that set these men apart as leaders from the Lord. These men are responsible to strengthen the faith of the church and support the spiritual and physical lives of God’s people. Their power and authority come from God and his Word.

Thank God for providing spiritual leaders as a blessing for our lives!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, you are a God of order. Thank you for setting up leaders so that we might have an orderly life to praise you! Grant us the peace that order brings to our lives. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Who led the people of Israel out of Egypt?
• With whom did God replace him?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Name at least two spiritual leaders in your congregation. List one thing they do that makes you thankful for them.
• Name at least one important thing God expects a spiritual leader to do.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What are two ways you might serve as a leader for the Lord (or to assist a leader) as you get older?
• Even as a child, discuss how you might serve as a leader now.

Hymn: CW 367:1-3 – Christ Be My Leader

Christ be my leader by night as by day,
Safe through the darkness, for he is the way.
Gladly I follow, my future his care;
Darkness is daylight when Jesus is there.

Christ be my teacher in age as in youth,
Drifting or doubting, for he is the truth.
Grant me to trust him, though shifting as sand.
Doubt cannot daunt me—in Jesus I stand!

Christ be my Savior in calm as in strife;
Death cannot hold me, for he is the life.
Nor darkness nor doubting nor sin and its stain
Can touch my salvation—with Jesus I reign!

 

Read: 1 Timothy 3:1-7

Here is a trustworthy saying: Whoever aspires to be an overseer desires a noble task.
1 Timothy 3:1

Thank God for Faithful Preachers of His Word

 

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

There was a principal that loved his students. He worked hard to make sure he taught his students carefully. He prepared his classes so that each student would learn. He also had to take care of the paperwork of the school. He spent countless hours doing his work. He taught his lessons so that Jesus was in everything his students learned. He took Jesus home with him. He spent time with his family making sure they were safe and happy. He made sure that his family knew Jesus and that they were saved, that heaven is their home. He did all of these things because he loved his Savior.

Then there was a little girl. Her father was taken to heaven. She was in this principal’s school. She was not one of his students yet because she was so little. That didn’t stop this principal. He knew she and her family needed support. One time at a father/daughter basketball game, he stepped in as the little girl’s “dad.” The principal’s daughters babysat for the little girl. The principal watched out for her, and she listened to what he said. She heard his message from Jesus. She felt so loved and supported that she too wanted to be a teacher. Sure enough, she did!

Thank God for faithful preachers of his Word! Because of this principal and all the men and women who God calls to be his messengers, more people (like that little girl) experience Jesus’ love. Many feel the love of the Lord through the love of the pastor or the teacher. Many come to faith, grow stronger in faith, and share their faith because of faithful preachers of his Word! While everyone has the calling to share the good news, few are called to do it full time. Thank the Lord for people like this principal, and all of our pastors and teachers who choose to serve the Lord by sharing the great news of salvation with us every day!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for faithful called workers who have impacted our lives. Use them to strengthen and encourage us each 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 did the principal do to show his love for Jesus?
• What did the little girl end up doing as a job?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What motivated the principal in his work?
• Why is love so important in the work of a pastor, teacher, or principal?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Name a pastor or teacher in your life and how they influenced you for the better.
• Have you considered that the Lord might want you to be a called worker? Discuss with your family the gifts they see in you to be one.

Hymn: CW 446:5,6 – I Am Trusting You Lord Jesus

I am trusting you for power; You can never fail.
Words which you yourself shall give me, Must prevail.

I am trusting you, Lord Jesus; Never let me fall.
I am trusting you forever And for all.

 

Read: Mark 6:7-13

Calling the Twelve to him, he began to send them out two by two and gave them authority over impure spirits. These were his instructions: “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts. Wear sandals but not an extra shirt. They went out and preached that people should repent.
Mark 6:7-9,12

God Equips Us for the Journey

 

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

Get ready! Pack everything you need. What do you need to go camping or to your favorite vacation spot? Clothes, shoes, toothbrush, flashlight, phone, tablet, and…. Don’t forget anything!

When we go somewhere, we prepare. We pack all the things we need and want. We check our phones for battery length. We plan where we want to go, what we want to see, and how we will get there. More people are doing that now in the summertime than any other time of the year.

Then we hear Jesus’ instructions from our Bible reading, “Take nothing for the journey except a staff—no bread, no bag, no money in your belts.” Nothing? Think about what his disciples must have been thinking. How will we eat? Where will we sleep? How will we survive the journey?

The Lord gave them everything that they needed for the journey. Jesus wanted the disciples to trust in him, not the earthly stuff. Jesus wants us to trust in him too. We can often trust too much in the things that we need or want. We don’t know how we will eat or sleep, or how we will survive. It can feel dark when we do not know. “Trust me,” Jesus says, “I will provide for you on your trip.” Jesus has something very special for us to do on this journey—tell a person frightened because of their sins that God doesn’t see their sins because of Jesus. Tell someone who refuses to say “I’m sorry” for what they did wrong that they need to. Tell them to live in God’s light. Jesus is the light that shows the answers to all of our questions. He shows us that the only thing we need is his salvation and home in heaven.

Jesus shines on us and through us. So, while we might be packing for vacation and not a mission trip, we are to be ready and shine Jesus. He never stops shining the light of his greatest answer in our lives. So, we reflect that light to the world so that they might know that their questions are answered in the light of Jesus. The world will know through us that the Savior Jesus is the only light needed!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for shining in our lives so that we know we are saved. Give us the strength and courage to reflect your light to everyone we see! 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 Jesus tell his disciples to bring with them on their journey?
• Why did Jesus want them to pack light?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• If you were one of Jesus’ disciples preparing for the journey and you heard his instructions, how might you feel?
• Give two ways you can reflect Jesus’ light to others.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Jesus wanted his disciples to pack light for their journey with nothing extra. Give one way you can reflect the same “pack light” mentality.
• What is the special mission Jesus gives us as we travel through life?

Hymn: CW 446:1,2 – I Am Trusting You Lord Jesus

I am trusting you, Lord Jesus, Trusting only you,
Trusting you for full salvation, Free and true.

I am trusting you for pardon; At your feet I bow,
For your grace and tender mercy Trusting now.

 

Read: Ezekiel 2:1-3:4

You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or fail to listen, for they are rebellious. But you, son of man, listen to what I say to you. Do not rebel like that rebellious people; open your mouth and eat what I give you.
Ezekiel 2:7-8

Ezekiel’s Call: Digest and Share the Word

 

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

“Have I got a job for you!” Does that get you excited or a little nervous? What if they say, “I’ve got a great job for you. Go over there and tell that group of kids that recess is over. They need to come inside right now. They won’t be happy and might even yell at you, but it’s ok. Tell them anyway. Thanks for helping!”

Is your answer going to be, “Sure! Happy to help!” or will it be, “You’ve got to be kidding! No thanks!”

Ezekiel was someone God picked for an important job. God wanted him to deliver a message. The people he was to speak with were all descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This is a big deal. It means that these were people chosen by God. They knew a lot about God. However, God paints a pretty tough picture about them. He calls them stubborn and rebellious. God wanted Ezekiel to be ready for the fact that the people were likely not going to be excited to hear what God has to say about them. Ezekiel was to tell them that they were sinning against God—not an easy message at all. Ezekiel was not to stop speaking God’s message even if the people refused to listen to it.

How about you? Did you know that God asks you to do the same thing as Ezekiel? He sends you as one of his special people who tells others about Jesus. You don’t have to go to a faraway place. You don’t have to get up in front of a large group of people. You simply get to talk about Jesus and all he’s done for you and for others in your everyday life. God doesn’t ask you to actually eat his Word like he told Ezekiel to eat the scroll, but he was encouraging Ezekiel and you to read and listen to God’s Word as food you need for your body. Even if God’s message doesn’t taste pleasant at the moment, it is meant to help us. Sometimes unpleasant things remind us God’s sweet promises of grace, forgiveness, heaven, and that he is right there with us every day.

The next time you see something unpleasant to eat on your plate, remember Ezekiel and the untasty message God wanted him to eat and share with his people.

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, give me faith and courage to speak about you even when I think others might reject what I say. Bless my efforts to tell and tell and tell about you. 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

• What hard thing did God ask Ezekiel to do?
• Discuss the last time a grown up (like Mom or Dad) said something you didn’t want to hear. Ask them why they said such a hard thing.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• List at least three words that would describe how Ezekiel may have felt as he set out to deliver God’s tough message.
• God told Ezekiel to eat the scroll he was giving him. He wanted Ezekiel to taste the words and have that message inside him. God doesn’t ask you and me to eat the Bible, but he wants us to have the message inside us too. How can we do that?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• If you were Ezekiel, how would you share God’s message knowing people wouldn’t like it?
• Why is it so important to not avoid unpleasant messages God speaks to us even though we may not want to hear them?

Hymn: CW 293 – God’s Word Is Our Great Heritage

God’s Word is our great heritage
And shall be ours forever;
To spread its light from age to age
Shall be our chief endeavor.
Through life is guides our way;
In death it is our stay.
Lord, grant, while worlds endure,
We keep its teachings pure
Throughout all generations.