Read: Luke 16:1-13

You cannot serve God and money.
Luke 16:13

And

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

This Bible passage is so simple we may think, “Of course I want to serve God! I’m a Christian!” But there’s a sneaky word in the passage— “and.” Maybe we want to serve God, but we also want the things money gives us. We want God… AND money.

We want to give our offerings… AND take the big vacation. We want to serve at our church… AND be involved in our other activities. We want to go to church… AND watch sports on TV. And. And. And… we want it all!

The thing is, we can’t actually have it all. God might give us some good things on this earth, but we don’t get everything. We live in a world where many people want worldly things before God. That’s because the devil wants you to fall away from God, and he knows that money and the things that money can buy can do that. How sad. The devil will use the lives of famous people and maybe even our friends to convince us that having money and a beautiful, fun life will make our lives better. We can easily become distracted from loving and serving God.

God doesn’t want you to love him and money. Just him. He wants us to serve him first. The tragedy is… we don’t. Not a single person has ever lived who perfectly loves and serves just Jesus. We all serve God “and” ourselves. What do we do?

In comes our great rescuer—Jesus. Jesus loves us. Not us “and” the world. Not us “and” living a beautiful, fun life. Not us “and” a long life in this world. Just us. Jesus gave up his life to love us and rescue our lives. So even when we do serve money first, we repent and remember that he saved us for the better life! So there’s no need to worry about our money! God has taken care of all of us. Rather than serving God and money (which is impossible), we can serve God with money by being “ready to give!”

Beautiful, pure devotion to God is backwards from what the world says. Don’t live your best life now! Our best life will be in eternity! Wait for that day. Pray for that day. Remember, your money will come to nothing on that day. Only true life with Jesus will remain!

Closing Prayer:

Holy God, our hearts often return to a desire for things of this world and gaining material possessions. Forgive us. Restore our joy in your salvation and give us a willing spirit to serve you first. Come, Lord Jesus. 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 Jesus love more: You? Or lots of toys?
• Our Bible verse says you cannot serve God and… what?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why will we never perfectly serve just God?
• When will you live your best life?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• In your own words, explain what our Bible verse means: “You cannot serve God and money.”
• How does regularly remembering your salvation in Jesus help you to think of your money wisely now?

 

Read: Ecclesiastes 5:10-20

He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver;
Nor he who loves abundance, with increase.
Ecclesiastes 5:10

Abundance is Not Enough

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

Do you know what it means to “love abundance”?

It means you want a lot of stuff. You think having lots of treats or a new phone or a big house with a trampoline or better sporting equipment or a fancy vacation like your friend went on will make your life better.

Did you know that a lot of people think that buying things will make their lives happy?

Many grownups believe that if they have the prettiest house or the best toys for their kids, their life will be better. Even children can want life to look like someone they see online or on a TV show. They can dream about being as rich or richer than their parents one day—even though God might not give them that life. Some Christians might be tempted to stockpile their money like squirrels stashing nuts or not give their offerings to God because they are scared of not having enough for the future. They forget that God gave them their money and he promised to take care of them. That can be a hard truth for people.

So what’s the solution to wanting more and more abundance? You probably guessed it—JESUS! And this is the best answer ever because it means that if we have Jesus, we don’t really need anything else. Jesus died for us and promises us heaven one day!

Then the Bible teaches us two powerful words to help us remember that more, more, more does not ultimately make us happy. The two words are: “thank you.”

Throughout the Bible, there are reminders to give thanks to God for what he has done for us and what he has given us. When we say, “thank you” for our dinner, we remember that the dinner is enough. When we say “thank you” to our parents for driving us home after school, we remember that time with our parents is enough. When we say “thank you” for our toys, piano, bed, pets, or siblings, we remember that the gifts God has given us are enough. Best of all, we can thank Jesus for heaven. Because more than anything else, Jesus loves us in abundance.

Later this week, we will learn how money can also be a blessing!

Closing Prayer:

Thank you, Lord, for all of your blessings. Forgive us for when we are unsatisfied with your gifts. Give us hearts that are content with your promises and eager to grow in your wisdom, not wealth. 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 most important thing to thank Jesus for?
• Name the top two things that you are most thankful for.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• “He who loves abundance” is someone who wants a lot of stuff. When will you finally have enough stuff?
• Having Jesus means we have enough. When is a good time in your day for you to daily say “thank you” to him?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Describe the last time you saw someone online showing off something you have always wanted. How did it make you feel?
• Agree or Disagree: If I am just as rich as my parents when I grow up, then I will have enough.

 

Read: 2 Corinthians 2:5-11

If anyone has caused grief… The punishment inflicted on him by the majority is sufficient for him. Now instead, you ought to forgive and comfort him, so that he will not be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. I urge you, therefore, to reaffirm your love for him.
2 Corinthians 2:5-8

Love, Even When It Hurts

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

In the game of hockey, a player who breaks the rules is sent to the penalty box. A penalty is generally two minutes long. After the penalty has been served, the player can be restored to the team in good standing. The goal is that the player will learn the lesson and join his team again while keeping the rules.

In today’s devotion, a dear friend of Paul had been sent to the penalty box. He broke one of God’s rules and didn’t care that he did it. He needed to be given a talking to. It wasn’t about winning a debate or proving, “I’m right and you’re wrong.” Paul really loved him. He had to confront him because he wanted him to thrive and believe in Jesus. But before that could happen, he had to scold him and tell his friend that what he did was wrong and had hurt a lot of other people too. Paul knew it would be a very painful conversation. It made his heart ache.

Remember the last time someone really hurt you? Was it someone at home or a friend at school? How did you respond? Did you try to ignore what happened and hope it would just all go away? Or did you hurt them right back and humiliate them? Ignoring sin never works. And hurting someone because they hurt you is always wrong. Love hurts. And it hurts when we must face sin.

But something wonderful happened while Paul’s friend was in the penalty box. He learned his lesson. He was sorry for what he did, promised to obey the rules, and asked if he could rejoin the team again. But that’s so hard, isn’t it—to let someone back after they’ve really hurt you? When Paul’s friend came out of the penalty box, Paul reminded the rest of the team, “Now, forgive and comfort him, and reaffirm your love for him.” The goal of the penalty box is not just to punish even when you are in the right. The reason a parent grounds a child or takes a privilege away for a time is not because they hate you or to simply cause you pain. They love you so much. The goal is a genuine change in you that says, “That was my bad, and I’m sorry. I want to keep the rules.”

When someone comes out of the penalty box and is sorry for what they did, forgive! Love! Don’t hold it over them. Don’t keep bringing it up. Be like Jesus and forgive the naughty and the rude because at Jesus’ cross, God forgave all of your sins. And may God’s mercy replace your pain with peace and your hurt with love.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, sometimes it’s really hard to forgive and forget when I’ve been hurt and sinned against. But I know that you have forgiven me time and time again. Give me a heart that finds joy in forgiving. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Why was Paul’s friend put in the penalty box?
• When Paul’s friend came out of the penalty box, what did Paul remind the rest of the team?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you find it so hard to forgive someone who has hurt you?
• Give two things you learned today about forgiveness.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Name someone you need to forgive. Talk out what happened that led up to it.
• What is the result of unforgiveness? Why should believers forgive?

 

Read: Luke 14:25-35

[Jesus] said: “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.
Luke 14:26-27

A Free Lunch

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

Have you ever heard the saying, “There is no such thing as a free lunch”?

A person would use that phrase to explain that even though a person might receive something for free, it wasn’t actually free. Use a lunch as an example—someone had to buy the food, someone had to pay the person who cooked the food. Even when something is given away for free—there is almost always someone who is paying. It just might not be you.

Jesus tells us that there is a cost to following him—a cost to being a believer. Our sin separated us from God and Jesus paid to bring us back to God. He paid for our sin with his life and death on the cross so that we could be believers.

As a believer, Jesus tells us that there may be another cost. Not to save us from sin—Jesus already did that on the cross. But a cost that comes as a result of following Jesus. People may not like us or they may make fun of us—even people that we love like family and friends. People have even been killed because they followed and believed in Jesus! Jesus calls this the “cross” we carry. It is not a cross that saves us, but a cross that we carry because we believe that Jesus is our Savior.

Hopefully, those things don’t happen to us—but they might, so Jesus wants us to be ready. He wants us to know that there is a cost to following him. But, as hard or as scary as the cross might be, Jesus is with us. He loves us, he has forgiven us, and he gives us eternal life with him. Knowing that Jesus is always by our side, we can “take up our cross” and follow him.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for living and dying on the cross so that I could be with you forever in heaven. Help me to daily take up my cross and follow 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

• What is your favorite thing to have for lunch?
• What did Jesus do for you so that you could be with him in heaven?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Which do you think is the harder cost to pay—the price to save us from sin or the cost to follow Jesus? Why?
• The cross we carry can be a hard thing to think about. How does Jesus encourage you?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Have you experienced a cost to following Jesus? If so, what happened? How did you react?
• How can you prepare to take up your cross and follow Jesus?

 

Read: Deuteronomy 30:15-20

I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him.
Deuteronomy 30:19-20

Ice Cream or Broccoli?

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

Choose one:

• Ice cream or broccoli?
• Cookies or carrots?

The choice seems easy, right? Carrots and broccoli are easily the healthier, better choice. Ice cream and cookies may be good, but if you eat them all the time, you will not be very healthy.

We have choices that we have to make regularly when it comes to our faith—choices that can bring us closer to our Savior or weaken our faith because they keep us from our Savior.

• Family devotion or watching another episode of your favorite show on Netflix or Disney+?
• Worshiping on a Sunday morning or sleeping in and taking a “day off”?

God’s people in the Old Testament had similar choices to make. As they were they were about to enter a land God had promised to give them, their leader Moses told them they were going to have to make some choices. As believers, they were going to have to decide between doing things that would strengthen their faith and keep them close to their God or they were going to make decisions that would end up turning them away from their God.

The choice seems easy, right? But like ice cream and broccoli—easy, but hard.

Moses wanted them to make the right choice. God wanted them to make the right choice. God wants you to make the right choice. He wants you to continue to love him, listen to his voice, and hold fast to him. God wants this for you because of what he has already done for you! He loved you, saved you, speaks to you in his Word—so that you can love him, listen to him, and hold fast to him.

The choice seems easy, right? But hard. There are so many things that can distract us and in the long run, turn us away from our Savior. We have to be careful with the choices we make!

The choice seems easy! Love your God! Listen to him daily! Hold on to him tightly! And thank him as he blesses those choices!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for the many blessings you bring into my life. Help me to love you, listen to you, and hold on to you tightly with the decisions I make. 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

• Which one would you choose: Ice cream or broccoli? Cookies or carrots? Why?
• How does God show that he loves you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• When you have a choice between something healthy and something unhealthy, what do you usually choose? Why?
• What are some ways you can choose to love God, listen to him, and hold on to him tightly?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Can you think of any decisions you have made that have kept you from your Savior rather than bringing you closer to him? Why did you choose what you did?
• What choice do you think God’s people made?

 

Read: James 2:1-13

If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin and are convicted by the law as lawbreakers.
James 2:8-9

The Royal Law

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

Many of you hearing this devotion have recently started a new school year. One of the most popular questions students are asked at the beginning of a new school year is, “What was your favorite memory from summer?” Your favorite memory might have been a vacation with your family, winning a baseball/softball tournament, not having homework, or just playing with friends. In the Bible, God doesn’t command us to not have a favorite summer memory or a favorite flavor of ice cream, but he does warn us against the sin of favoritism. When we unfairly treat some people better than others, we are showing favoritism.

During James’ time, favoritism was a real problem in the church. The church members were giving much more respect and attention to church members who were rich than those who were poor. It’s the temptation to value members who give the most money, volunteer the most time, or are the most talented.

Jesus tells us that there is no place for favoritism in the life of a believer—ever. It is a sin to treat one person better than another person because of what they look like, how much money they have, or what that person can do for us. To help guide us from falling into the sin of favoritism, God’s Word gives us what is called the “royal law” in our reading, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” It is much better to humbly show love and kindness to all people than to use others for our personal gain.

How blessed we are that Jesus doesn’t offer his grace and love only to those who can help him out. As sinful people who enter this world separated from God, we have nothing to offer him. Yet, he showed no favoritism. He died on the cross to save all people, not just some people. May we follow the example of Jesus by showing love and respect to all people and by sharing the good news of the Gospel with everyone we meet!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, help us to stand strong against the temptation to show favoritism. We thank you for the underserved love you showed all people by dying on the cross. Lead us to follow your example and to love our neighbor as ourselves. 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 your favorite memory from summer?
• What is your favorite story about Jesus in the Bible?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What are ways that students show favoritism at school?
• How does the royal law “Love your neighbor as yourself” help us fight the sin of favoritism?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Have you ever been treated unfairly by another person because of what you look like or because of who you are? How did that make you feel?
• Think of a classmate who is affected by the results of favoritism and come up with some ways you can show them kindness.

 

Read: Luke 13:22-30

Then Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem. Someone asked him, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” He said to them, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.”
Luke 13:22-24

The Narrow Door

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

A man from California was visiting his brother and family. They played a fun game called Wits and Wagers. The game involves trying to guess the answers to challenging questions. For example, “In pounds, what is the world record for weight lifted by a single human ear?” (178 lbs.) Or “In hours and minutes, what is the fastest time for running a marathon while dressed as Santa?” (2 hours, 55 minutes)

In today’s Bible reading, Jesus was asked a challenging question, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” Jesus doesn’t really answer the question, but he does guide the person asking the question to think about how they personally can be saved. Jesus tells them that the entrance to heaven is through a narrow door. There is only one door, and it is a narrow one. Not everything will fit. This narrow door has no room for your pride or your accomplishments. No room for your money or possessions. No room for anything you think will earn your way in.

You see, there is just one door, and it is narrow, but that door is open, and it leads to salvation for everyone! Come in through the way that is Jesus, the new and living way that he opened for us—by his coming in the flesh, by the blood that he shed for us on the cross.

Jesus understands that there will come a time when the door to heaven will be closed. So, he encourages us to make every effort to fit through the narrow door. A challenging question for us is, “What does this mean?” This means we listen to Jesus as he guides us in his Word. We humbly confess our sins each day and turn from them. We don’t look to ourselves or the things of this world to find the answer of how to be saved. Instead, we humbly put our trust in Jesus, who is the narrow door and the only entrance into heaven. We faithfully study his Word and are reminded time and time again that it is by grace that we have been saved, through faith—and this not from ourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord Jesus, you are the narrow door and our only entrance into eternal life in heaven is through you. Forgive us for our sins of pride and humbly lead us to put our trust only in 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

• Describe the door in today’s devotion.
• Who opened the door to heaven for us?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why is the door to heaven narrow?
• Look up Ephesians 2:8,9 and write the verses down on a note card. Keep the card somewhere you can see it to be reminded that you are saved by grace and faith alone through Jesus.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Respond to a person who says, “There are all kinds of religions and different ways that all lead to heaven.”
• Which is the better question (and give a reason for it): “Lord, will those who are saved be few?” Or, “Will those who are saved include me?”

 

Read: Isaiah 66:18-24

“As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before me,” declares the Lord, “so will your name and descendants endure. From one New Moon to another and from one Sabbath to another, all mankind will come and bow down before me,” says the Lord. “And they will go out and look on the dead bodies of those who rebelled against me; the worms that eat them will not die, the fire that burns them will not be quenched, and they will be loathsome to all mankind.”
Isaiah 66:22-24

Heaven and Hell

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

Has anyone ever told you they have some good news and they have some bad news? A person will usually follow-up that statement with the question, “Which do you want to hear first?” In this section of our reading Isaiah starts with some good news and finishes with some bad news.

First, the good news. “As the new heavens and the new earth that I make will endure before me, so your name and descendants will endure.” This verse tells us that some people, when they die, will live with Jesus forever in heaven. Heaven is a perfect place with no sadness, no pain, and those who live there will joyfully worship and praise God for eternity.

Now, the bad news. “The fire that burns them will not be quenched, and they will be loathsome to all mankind.” This verse shows us that some people, when they die, will live forever in hell. Hell is the worst place imaginable and is filled with only pain and suffering that will never end.

When talking about heaven and hell, an important question for us to ask is, “How can we be among those who will go to heaven?” It doesn’t matter what you look like, how good you are, or where you live. The answer to this question lies in the heart of every person. Those who have been given the gift of faith and believe Jesus died and rose from the dead to save them from their sins will live with him forever in heaven. Those who refuse to believe in Jesus as their Savior will spend eternity in hell. That is a hard truth for us to hear, but it is an important fact for us to know.

As believers in Jesus, we look forward to the day we will live with Jesus forever in heaven. Until that day we strive to be faithful in studying God’s Word so our faith can be strengthened. We also want to tell others about Jesus so that they may believe and live with us in heaven one day.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for the gift of faith so that we may live with you forever in heaven. Help us to be students of your Word our whole lives and to tell others the good news that you died on the cross to save them from their sins. 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 do to save you from your sins?
• Where will you live with Jesus forever one day?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why will some people go to heaven and other people go to hell?
• What are you most looking forward to in heaven?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why do you think people find it easier to talk about heaven than hell? Why is it important to talk about both?
• Mark 16:16 says, “Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.” Think of a friend, neighbor, or family member who is not a Christian and make a plan to tell them about Jesus.

 

Read: Hebrews 12:1-13

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Hebrews 12:1-3

It’s Worth It!

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

Notice that Hebrews chapter 12 began with the word, “therefore.” It’s reminding us to look back at what was said in chapter 11. If you have a few extra moments right now, go back and check out Hebrews 11. This chapter is sometimes referred to as the “Heroes of Faith” chapter—kind of like the Hall of Fame of the Bible. The “great cloud of witnesses” at the beginning of today’s reading are these famous followers of Jesus who lived before us. God wants us to look to them and their lives as examples for us.

For example, what did Noah have to endure? Ridicule for building a huge ark when there was no apparent reason to do so. What hardship did Abraham have? He traveled to a location that only God knew and waited many years for a child. Moses risked his life as he approached Pharoah to let God’s people go. He had to listen to the many complaints of the Israelites as they traveled through the desert. Noah, Abraham, and Moses are heroes of faith who carried crosses, faced temptations, endured hardships, and committed sins. Yet God helped them to keep their eyes on him as they carried out God’s plans for them.

What is your hardship? What temptations do you face? Sometimes you might question why God allows trouble in your life, but God is all-knowing. You can trust what God is doing, even in troubles. Often he uses hard times to call sinners back to himself. Maybe you haven’t yet learned a lesson that he wants you to know. God wants you to follow him, getting rid of anything that would prevent you from staying on the right path. He loves you and disciplines you, just as a parent would discipline you if you were doing something wrong. Proper discipline is done out of love to lead you in the right direction.

God used these Bible heroes to carry out his plan, and he uses you too! Is your suffering worth it? Yes! It directs you to your Savior and makes you eager for the joys of heaven. When you’re having a tough time, remember that Jesus suffered too. He looked past the suffering with joy because he knew it was all for you. YOU are worth that much to him!

Closing Prayer:

O Lord, give us patience to endure hardship. Help us stand up under it and continually fix our eyes on you until we reach our heavenly goal. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Name two heroes in the Bible and why they are your favorites.
• Who is a hero of faith in your life today?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• True or false: Troubles in life are a direct result of bad decisions we make.
• Describe a recent hardship in your life. How did God use it for your good?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Compare yourself to Noah, Abraham, Joseph, or Moses. How are you the same as them? How are you different?
• How will you use these examples to help you persevere when hardship enters your life?

 

Read: Luke 12:22-34

Then Jesus said to his disciples: “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. For life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom.
Luke 12:22-23,32

You’re an Heir of the Promise Keeper

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

In our devotions this week, we have learned about the faith of an Old Testament hero named Abraham as he journeyed through this life. In today’s Scripture, Jesus is speaking to his disciples, the 12 men who left their families and all they had to follow Jesus. As the disciples traveled with Jesus, they did not have a home like you do. They did not travel with many possessions. Sometimes they did not know where their next meal would come from.

Jesus knew the kind of feelings uncertainty stirs in human hearts. The disciples must have worried at times about not having enough. Jesus reminded them that he alone was enough for them. He used two of their most basic needs—food and clothes—as examples why they did not need to worry about their life. “Look at the birds,” he told them. God cares for animals even as these; he would certainly care for his disciples. Jesus walked by their side, teaching them God’s truths. “Do not be afraid.” His words gave them comfort and hope.

We’re not too different from the disciples, are we? Can you even remember a time you didn’t have plentiful food and more clothes than you need? We have warm homes in winter and spaces to keep us cool in the summer. God knows you’ve got to pay the rent or tuition, buy groceries, and all the other bills. He is not saying, “Don’t think about those things.” He’s saying, “Don’t worry about them. Don’t make them the aim of your life. If you’re going to worry, worry about something important.” Then he says, “But seek first his kingdom, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

Worry and fear lead us to doubt God’s promises and his presence. That is not where God wants us to be. He has given us Jesus! Even greater than providing for our earthly needs, God has taken care of our biggest need—our need for a Savior. He has forgiven all our sins of worry and doubt. He has promised us his kingdom and all the blessings of living in his loving care. Your home in heaven is certain and already being prepared for you. You need not fear anything in this world or what will happen to you. You are an heir of this gift of eternal life! What a gift! Thank you, Jesus!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for providing for all our needs, especially our need for a Savior. You give us what we don’t deserve. Help us to believe your promises and strengthen our faith until we are finally with you in heaven. Be with us, Lord. 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

• With your family, make a list of blessings that God gives showing he cares for you.
• What will you do the next time you find yourself afraid or worried?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Give two reasons Jesus told his disciples not to fear.
• Sometimes it’s hard to talk about what causes us to be afraid or worry. Share with your family a time you were worried. What will you do next time it grips you?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree. Worry is always a sin. Explain your answer.
• Why do you think Jesus brought up heaven in this section that’s about worry? How was that actually a comfort to the disciples? How is that a comfort for you?

 

Read: Genesis 15:1-6

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.”
Genesis 15:1

Be a Treasure Seeker!

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

Abram was a very rich man. In those days, having many sheep, donkeys, cattle, camels, manservants, and maidservants made a person very rich. God blessed Abram in this way. Yet, even with all these blessings, Abram was missing something. He and his wife Sarah had no children.

This was very difficult for Abram and Sarah. Not only did they desire to have the blessing of children, but God also promised that he would give Abram many descendants. The older Abram and Sarah got, the harder it was for them to believe that God would give them even one child, let alone many descendants.

So, God went to Abram and reminded him of his presence. He said, “I am your shield, Abram.” Just like a shield protects a warrior, so God would protect Abraham from his doubts as he carried out his good plans for him. God also said, “Abram, I am your very great reward.” God assured Abram that he was his greatest treasure, worth more than earthly wealth, possessions, or even a precious child. His worth came from God alone.

We need these reminders too. Just like Abram and Sarah, we may think God has forgotten his promises to us or he has forgotten us altogether. When our desires aren’t met, we doubt God’s promises and think that God doesn’t care for us. When that happens, remember what God told Abraham, “I am your shield and great reward.” We don’t have to worry or be afraid. The God who gave his own Son to save you from sin always knows just what you need and when you need it. He will bless you as he sees fit, not for earthly gain, but for your eternal benefit.

In God’s mercy and love, he gave Abram many earthly blessings and the promise to make him a great nation. By faith, Abram believed that he was right with God. That’s what really mattered for him. That’s what really matters for you. No matter how many earthly blessings Abram had, his first and most important treasure was always God himself. God alone is your number one treasure too. May he always help us believe that and live it!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord God, we know your promises are true. By your Holy Spirit, our faith grasps the truth. Forgive us for the times that we doubt. Cause our faith to grow as we regularly come to your Word. Thank you for being our most important treasure. 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

• What two promises did God give Abram and Sarah?
• Why can we trust God to provide for us?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• God promised Abram and Sarah a son and that they would have many descendants. Explain how God would bless the whole world through those two promises.
• In what ways is God your very great reward?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Read Genesis 15:6. Discuss what “credited to him as righteousness” means.
• At times we have to wait on God as he works in our lives, just like Abram and Sarah waited for God to fulfill his promise. What temptations exist for us as we wait for God’s answer to prayer? How can we avoid falling into these sins?

 

Read: Colossians 1:1-11

Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God.
Colossians 3:1-3

Your Life Is Safe

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

There is a place in the United States that holds more gold than any other country in the world. Located in Kentucky, Fort Knox is a fortress-like building with granite walls two feet thick. The gold vault is protected by a blast-proof door that weighs the same as a fully-loaded school bus. Fort Knox protects some of the most precious items that belong to the United States.

Today’s devotion says, “Your life is hidden with Christ” —not hidden like in “hide and seek, come and find me,” but hidden safely. It’s the Bible’s way of saying that the empty vault of Christ’s tomb means your life is now safe in Christ! So close is your life connected to him, it’s as if you died with him on Good Friday and came back to life with him Easter morning! Because Christ is alive—your faith is suction-cupped to him safely and forever. Your life is Fort Knox-safe!

And a “safe” life changes how you live: “Set your hearts on things above… Take off the old self and put on the new self” (verses 2,9,10). Like a dirty, sweaty shirt after a long day outside, “Take it off!” Jesus bought your life on the cross. You don’t belong to yourself. You belong to him! Your life is hidden with Christ. You’re safe! You’re forgiven! It’s like wearing a brand-new set of clothes every day. The “new” you doesn’t want to talk naughty or tell lies or make someone cry. The “new” you wants to be trusted by friends and family. The “new” you is peaceful, happy, and content.

The best part about the “new” life? It can happen to anyone! Jesus doesn’t care what your past looks like or what your background is. None of that matters. Your life is safe in Jesus. It gives the new life and the new you that you’ve always wanted. It’s not just possible. It’s already happened! Thanks be to God! Amen.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, today we thank you for our lives. Thank you for saving them and keeping us safe every day. When we fall back into old ways of living, help us set our hearts on things above where you are seated at the right hand of God. 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 name of the fort where America keeps its gold safe?
• How did Jesus keep us safe?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does it mean that “your life is hidden with Christ?” Where did that happen? (At the cross)
• What does it mean to “take off the old self and put on the new self?” When did that happen? (At your baptism)

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Ask your family the characteristics of the “new” you they most appreciate about you.
• Now identify at least two more ways you can live the “new” you this week.

 

Read: Luke 11:1-13

“Which of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!”
Luke 11:11-13

Gifts for Our Good

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

As she ripped the wrapping paper off the present, her eyes were full joy and excitement. Who doesn’t like opening presents?! Then, a puzzled look, as she pulled out a dirty, stinky pair of socks. She tore into the next present, hoping it was better, only to find a half-eaten, moldy piece of cheese.

Eeww! Those are not great gifts—who would ever ask for THAT?! Can you imagine someone who loves you giving such an awful gift?

They wouldn’t, would they? Your family and friends want to give you good gifts. When you give a friend or someone in your family a gift, you want to give them something good. We like to give and get good gifts!

When we talk to God about all the things going on in our lives, about the people in our lives, and about the things we need, God gives us a wonderful promise. He says that he will hear and answer all of our prayers! So does that mean that God will always give us exactly what we want and asked him for?

Not exactly.

Today’s Bible verses tell us that God knows the best way to answer all of our prayers. In the same way we know our parents and those who care for us want to give us what is best for us, God too will give us what is best for us.

So, what if we really want something, and we ask God for it—but that thing that we really want would actually be bad for us? Worse, what if it would be something that could hurt our faith? What if it is something that would lead us away from Jesus? Or what if it would get in the way of God giving us something even better? Then that thing we might really want wouldn’t actually be good for us to get—kind of like dirty, stinky socks or moldy cheese!

Instead, because he loves us, God gives us what is best for us. He has given us the Holy Spirit, who created faith and keeps us in our faith. He has given us Jesus, who forgave all our sins. He has given us promises that he will hear and answer all our prayers with what is best for us! And that brings joy to our heart!

Closing Prayer:

Lord, you know how to give good gifts. Help me to trust that your answers to my prayers are what are best, even when I don’t see it. 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 you’ve been given? What made it great?
• What is the best gift God has given you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How does God know what is the best way to answer our prayers?
• Does knowing that God is going to listen to your prayers and answer them help you talk to God more? Why or why not?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why is the Holy Spirit a great gift from God?
• Take a moment and think of something that might at first appear to be a good thing, but later could be bad for you.

 

Read: Genesis 18:20-32

The men turned away and went toward Sodom, but Abraham remained standing before the LORD. Then Abraham approached him and said: “Will you sweep away the righteous with the wicked?
Genesis 18:22-23

I’ve Got Questions…

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

If you had a question for the President of the United States, do you think you could just walk up to the front door of his house, knock on the door, and then ask your question when he opened the door?

No way!

The President is really busy and important. Even if you did manage to get some time with him to ask your questions, you would probably only be able to do that once, and maybe for just a few short minutes.

It can be hard to get important and powerful people to pay attention to you, especially the younger you are. Now, look at the amazing thing that happens in this Bible story. “Abraham remained standing before the LORD. Then Abraham approached him and said…”

Abraham approached God to talk to him! If the President is a powerful and busy guy, imagine how busy God must be! He takes care of everyone on earth. He sends rain to water the grass and cause crops to grow. He makes sure the animals have food. He causes the sun to rise and set. Yet, Abraham was able to approach and talk to God! And he kept talking to God!

Talking to God—that is what prayer is. What a neat thing you and I can do—anytime and from any place—we can talk to God about anything! God is never too busy to listen to us.

But why? Why would God want to listen to Abraham, or to you? God wants you to talk to him because you are important to him! He wants to listen to you because he loves you. He hears all of your prayers and answers them because Jesus forgave all your sins. God wants you to keep talking to him, every day and about everything, because at your baptism, God made you his child. Because of who God is and what he has done for you, you can, like Abraham, approach God and talk to him!

Whether you’ve got questions, things you are afraid of, or something that makes you really happy and thankful—all are great things to talk to God about!

Closing Prayer:

God, thank you for never being too busy to listen when I talk to you about all the things going on in my life. 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

• If you could ask God any question, what would it be?
• Who is the most important person you have ever talked to?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why can you approach God and talk to him like Abraham?
• Make a list of things you always wanted to talk to God about. Which do you want to talk to him about today?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why does God want you talk to him?
• What do you think God wants you talk to him about?

 

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. 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.
Colossians 1:3-4,9b-10

Thank You, Lord… Can I Have More?

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

Alison just finished eating supper at the table. It was time for dessert. It was her favorite—strawberry shortcake. The cake was on the plates and the bowl of strawberries was making its way around the table. Suddenly, disaster struck. There weren’t enough strawberries for everyone. Alison’s mom mysteriously calculated the exact number of strawberries, divided it by the number of kids at the table, and then spooned them out evenly. Now everyone would be happy, right? Wrong! Alison complained, “But Mom, the berries don’t even cover my cake.” Mom replied, “Alison, be happy with what you have.”

Be happy with what you have. Is that what your mom says too when you’re at the store and you see the newest game or an action figure? Is that when Mom says something like, “Stop begging, be happy with what you have”?

Whether strawberries or toys, it’s good to be happy with what we have. But when it comes to spiritual blessings, God wants us to beg, and ask and ask and ask, and want more and more and more. More of what? Let’s call them our “spiritual strawberries.” When it comes to spiritual things, to the strength of our faith, to the number of God-pleasing fruits, or works of faith, “We pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way.” God never wants us to stop wanting more.

But that’s sort of hard, because there’s a part of us that doesn’t want to do that. There’s something in us that wants to do exactly the opposite of what God wants. But God has an answer for that. God tells us how we can grow in love for God and others. We grow when God feeds us. We grow the more we hear and know and read and study God’s Word.

For the tons of spiritual presents God gives, each wrapped with the red ribbon of Jesus’ blood—for faith in Jesus, for forgiveness, for the certain hope of heaven—we say “Thank you, God!” But never stop asking God for what you don’t have. Ask him to cover your cake and dump on those spiritual berries. Ask the Lord for strength to please him in every way, for strength to produce fruit in every good work. And find that strength in God’s Word.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, I am so thankful for everything you have given me in my life and for my faith. Don’t ever stop strengthening and supporting me to live my life 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

• When Alison complained she didn’t get enough strawberries on her shortcake, did her mom tell her—“Be happy with what you have” or “Ask for more and more”?
• When it comes to producing good spiritual berries of love for God and others, does God tell us—”Be happy with what you’ve got” or “Ask for more and more”?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• “Live a life worthy of the Lord.” What exactly does that mean?
• What has God given us that gives power to live life for him?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Have an honest discussion with your parents (or guardian, etc.) what is getting in the way of your family “growing in God’s Word.”
• The devotion talked about “spiritual strawberries” as fruit that shows itself in life. Identify what a couple of those berries might look like in your life.