Read: Revelation 1:4b-8

To him who loves us and has freed us from our sins by his blood, and has made us to be a kingdom and priests to serve his God and Father—to him be glory and power for ever and ever! Amen.

“Look, he is coming with the clouds,”
and “every eye will see him,
even those who pierced him”;
and all peoples on earth “will mourn because of him.”
So shall it be! Amen.

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty.”
Revelation 1:5-8

I Can’t Wait!

 

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

“I can’t wait! I can’t wait!” Gwen found herself saying that almost every day. She had a countdown calendar on her bedroom wall that reminded her about the big day. Now it was only 100 days until her golden birthday. Gwen was about to turn 10 on April 10. “I can’t wait! I can’t wait!”

Gwen didn’t realize it, but the days were starting to pass by quickly. She got busy with school and volleyball and playing with her friends. Before she knew it, the big day had finally arrived! Her tenth birthday! She was so excited to celebrate! “This is going to be the best party ever!” she thought.

The party was great and the whole day was fun. But . . . the next day was nothing special. It was just another ordinary day. Her birthday came, and now it was gone. Gwen was disappointed because she didn’t have something to look forward to anymore.

Birthdays and other celebrations can be a lot of fun. They are great days to look forward to. But we as Christians have something even better that is coming. That will be the great day when the Lord Jesus returns once and for all.

The apostle John once had a little preview of what that day would be like, and he wrote down what he saw in the book of Revelation. The words for the devotion today are truly wonderful. They remind us that Jesus has loved us and shed his blood for us. When he saved us, Jesus also made us to be his people who are a part of his kingdom, now and forever.

And yes, one day soon Jesus will come back in glory and every eye will see him. His enemies who rejected him will mourn and be sad. But that’s not true for us. We will see Jesus and rejoice. On that day we know that all the sickness, suffering, and sadness of this world will be over. We will only have joy and happiness—not just for a day like a birthday or holiday—forever and ever. All that will be ours when Jesus comes back on that great day. I can’t wait! I can’t wait!

Closing Prayer:

Jesus, thank you for paying for all our sins and making us to be your people. Give us patience as we wait for the glorious day of your return. 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 did Jesus make us to be his people forever and ever?
• Why will we be happy when Jesus returns?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What do you find challenging about waiting for Jesus to return on judgment day?
• How can we learn to be more patient for Jesus’ return?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• These verses from Revelation are like a little preview of what judgment day will be like. Discuss why you think God gives us these little sneak peeks.
• On the Last Day, everything in this world will be gone. All that will matter is our relationship with Jesus. Discuss how that thought should affect the way we live our lives now.

 

Read: John 18:33-37

Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”

“Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?”

“Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “Your own people and chief priests handed you over to me. What is it you have done?”

Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

“You are a king, then!” said Pilate.
John 18:33-37

A King? A King!

 

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

Take a moment to think about a powerful and mighty king. If you had to describe such a king, what would he be like? What would he wear? What would he say? What would he do? How would people treat him? (Perhaps your family could even pause this devotion to discuss what you are thinking about.)

Maybe you are picturing a king wearing fancy clothes, a royal robe, and a crown. Maybe you also picture him sitting on a throne or a riding a great big horse. Maybe you are thinking about a king giving commands, or winning battles, or people bowing down humbly before him.

What about the picture of a king from today’s Word of God? He’s riding on a donkey. He’s arrested and betrayed. People are spitting on him and hitting him. He’s wearing a crown of thorns and a fake robe. He’s bleeding all over, and he’s hardly speaking a word.

That doesn’t sound very powerful or mighty. That doesn’t look very triumphant or royal. In fact, it doesn’t seem much like a king at all. And yet, those words describe the greatest King of all—Jesus Christ.

As we see Jesus before the Roman governor Pontius Pilate in these verses from John 18, Jesus does not look like the kind of king this world would expect. That’s why Pilate was so confused. But Jesus explained to him, “My kingdom is from another place.” You see, Jesus’ kingdom is a spiritual and heavenly kingdom.

Just think, Jesus loves us so much that he set aside his power as true God to suffer and die for us and for our sins. But when he did so, he showed just how powerful he is. He paid for our sin. He crushed the devil. He conquered death and rose again. Jesus is in fact the most powerful, mighty King of all!

One day soon, Jesus will come back again. But on that Last Day, Jesus will show all his power and glory as King of kings and Lord of lords. And best of all, he will take you to be in his kingdom forever! What a mighty and loving King we have!

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, King of kings, we praise you for your great power in defeating death and the devil. We look forward to the day when you will return in all your glory. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Why do we call Jesus our King?
• Think of one way Jesus is better than any king in this world.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why was Pilate so confused when Jesus said he was King?
• What are ways that we can show honor to Jesus as our King?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• For Jesus our King, first came the cross and then came the glory. Explain how our life in this world will be just like our King’s.
• Why can it be considered a good thing that God allows us to suffer in this world before we have the glory of heaven? What value does suffering have for us as Christians?

 

Read: Daniel 12:1-3

At that time Michael, the great prince who protects your people, will arise. There will be a time of distress such as has not happened from the beginning of nations until then. But at that time your people—everyone whose name is found written in the book—will be delivered. Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt. Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.
Daniel 12:1-3

Rise and Shine!

 

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

The bedroom door creaked open. Footsteps pitter-pattered across the floor. Then came a soft and gentle voice, “Rise and shine!” It didn’t matter how nicely Noelle’s mom spoke those words every morning—Noelle didn’t like it one bit. “Ugh! No! Not yet!” she complained. “Rise and shine!” her mother said again. This time Noelle pulled the sheets up over her head and groaned, “Nooo! I don’t want to wake up!”

Noelle was not being very helpful or responsible. She needed to get up and get ready for school. Thankfully, her mother was very kind and loving. She stayed there and kept encouraging her to “rise and shine” until she finally did.

How about in your house? Are there some people who struggle to “rise and shine” and get out of bed? Would you rather be asleep or awake?

Even though many people love to sleep in, there is a day coming soon when all people will have to rise. That day is called judgment day. Daniel 12:2 says, “Multitudes who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake: some to everlasting life, others to shame and everlasting contempt.” This verse is telling us that when Jesus comes back in glory, all those who have died will have their bodies rise from the grave. Some will awake to everlasting life in heaven, some will go to everlasting death in hell.

There are many days when our sins make us much like Noelle. When we sin, we act like we don’t want to rise and shine in the light of God’s love. Sin leads us to be spiritually sleepy as Satan tries to lead us to fall asleep forever in unbelief. Satan wants us to spend eternity away from God and in hell.

Thanks be to God that Jesus has taken away all those sins! And thanks be to God that our mighty Savior Jesus also gives us the strength to remain strong in our faith. Jesus will help us to be awake, on the watch, and ready for his return on the Last Day. What a day that will be! Not only will Jesus raise us from the dead, but we will shine in the brightness of his love and glory. Daniel 12:3 says this about believers, “Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever.”

Stay connected to Jesus in his Word, in worship, and in prayer. That will help you to be ready for the wonderful day when Jesus comes back and says to you, “Rise and shine forever!”

Closing Prayer:

Jesus, thank you for saving me from sin and then sending your Spirit to give me faith in you. Help me remain strong in the faith until the day you return and raise me to life with you forever. 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 will Jesus do on the Last Day when he returns?
• What are the two places that all people will go to forever on the Last Day?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why does Satan work so hard to tempt us and lead us into sin?
• How can we know for sure that Jesus has more power than Satan?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree: Judgment day is a day to be afraid of. Explain your answer.
• What are you looking forward to the most on judgment day?

 

Read: Hebrews 9:24-28

But he has appeared once for all at the culmination of the ages to do away with sin by the sacrifice of himself. Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment, so Christ was sacrificed once to take away the sins of many; and he will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.
Hebrews 9:26-28

We Won!

 

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

Marcus and Myah couldn’t believe it! The moment almost didn’t seem real. Their eyes were wide open, they were pumping their fists in the air, they were jumping up and down, and they were cheering as loudly as they could. What a special moment! There, right in front of them, was their favorite team and their favorite superstar player riding by in a championship parade!

Marcus and Myah had watched every second of the championship game. When the team came to town for the game, they were a little nervous. But they had confidence in their favorite player. Sure enough, it was a tough battle, but the superstar player helped the team win the championship! Awesome! Now a few days later, the team returned to the city for the championship parade, and the superstar player was holding the championship trophy! What a victory! What a day! What a celebration!

Are you ready for your celebration? Many people enjoy when their favorite team or player wins a championship. But nothing will compare to the celebration waiting for us Christians when Jesus returns on judgment day.

The Bible writer reminds us in these verses from Hebrews 9 that Jesus came once already to fight the battle. It was a tough fight! After all, Jesus was up against sin, death, and the devil. But Jesus is not a superstar player, he is our almighty Savior. His opponents didn’t have a chance! Jesus washed away all sin at the cross, he defeated death when he rose from the dead, and he crushed Satan when he declared in victory, “It is finished!” The best news of all is that he won this glorious victory for you and for me!

All that’s left for Jesus now is the championship celebration. The Bible writer says, “He will appear a second time, not to bear sin, but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him.” Jesus is not coming back to battle sin and Satan again. He already won that fight. Instead, when Jesus returns, he will be bringing the championship to us. He will bring us eternal salvation, which means we will go on to live in victory forever in heaven.

Oh what a victory he has won already! Oh what a day that will be when he finally returns! And oh how I can’t wait to celebrate with you! We won! We won! The victory is ours in Jesus—now and forever! Amen!

Closing Prayer:

Jesus, thank you for winning the victory for us with your life, death, and resurrection in our place. Help us to watch and wait with joy for your glorious and victorious return on the Last 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

• How did Jesus defeat the devil?
• How did Jesus prove that he won the victory over death?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why is it that we often don’t think about Jesus coming back on judgment day?
• Give one way we can help believers to be ready for Jesus’ return. Then give one way we can help unbelievers to be ready for Jesus’ return.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• If you woke up every day and thought that it might be the Last Day when Jesus returns, how would you live your life differently?
• Some have said that Christians should be living with urgency in these last days before Jesus comes back. Describe what that means for the way we live.

 

Read: John 5:19-24

For just as the Father raises the dead and gives them life, even so the Son gives life to whom he is pleased to give it. Moreover, the Father judges no one, but has entrusted all judgment to the Son, that all may honor the Son just as they honor the Father. Whoever does not honor the Son does not honor the Father, who sent him.

“Very truly I tell you, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.
John 5:21-24

Not Guilty?!

 

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

The room was silent. Everyone was waiting as they were staring at one person. What would he say next? Then, finally, he spoke just two words. “Not guilty!”

The courtroom was shocked. What? How could this be? The person on trial had done so many bad things! There was a lot of evidence about a lot of crimes committed. And yet the judge declared the person not guilty? But not only that! Could you believe this? The judge then said that the person was not guilty because he, the judge, was going to go to prison and take the criminal’s place. Incredible!

I think you know that this scene would never take place in our world. We expect guilty people to be punished. Likewise, we would never expect a judge to punish himself and take the place of a criminal. That’s not only incredible, it would seem to be impossible. But while this would seem impossible in our world, it is possible in God’s kingdom.

In the words from John 5 today, Jesus is talking about how his Father sent him to this world for all people. Jesus did something truly incredible when he came—he offered himself to take the place of all sinners. He suffered the punishment of death and the prison of hell so that he could give forgiveness, life, and freedom to sinners like you and me.

Someday soon, Jesus will come back again on judgment day, and he will be the judge of all. But Jesus tells us something wonderful today. Even though we are spiritual “criminals” who are guilty of sinning against him, he is going to say something amazing to us in his eternal courtroom on judgment day—“not guilty.” Jesus said it this way, “Whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be judged but has crossed over from death to life.”

You see, Jesus our judge is also Jesus our substitute and Savior. He stepped into our place so that on the Last Day he could declare us innocent. Believers who look to Jesus in faith will receive life in heaven, not death in hell.

What an amazing message! What a reason to give thanks! What a message we have to share with others! Jesus declares us not guilty by his grace through faith in him. Thanks be to God!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for taking my place to suffer and die for me. Because you are my Savior, I know that you will come back on judgment day and declare me not guilty. Thank 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 the day called when Jesus will come back again?
• What will happen on judgment day?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What does it mean to be guilty of something? Who is guilty in this world?
• Explain why we already can know with confidence what the verdict will be for us on judgment day.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree: God is not really a fair God if he declares sinful people to be innocent. Explain your answer.
• Describe how judgment day is similar to a courtroom scene using as many parallels as you can think of.

 

Read: Daniel 3:16-28

Then Nebuchadnezzar said, “Praise be to the God of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, who has sent his angel and rescued his servants! They trusted in him and defied the king’s command and were willing to give up their lives rather than serve or worship any god except their own God.”
Daniel 3:28

Fired Up for the Lord!

 

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

What would you have done? What a tough situation!

Nebuchadnezzar was the wicked king of the Babylonians. He set up a giant gold idol that was 90 feet high and nine feet wide. Then he gave this command—whenever the signal was given, everyone was to bow down and worship that giant false god. But that’s not all! The command went on to say that whoever did not worship it would be thrown into a blazing furnace of fire and die.

Eventually, the signal was given, and everyone bowed down and worshiped. Well, almost everyone, that is. Three of God’s people named Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego refused to bow down. They would not worship any other god besides our one true God.

So King Nebuchadnezzar had them thrown into the fiery furnace. But an amazing miracle happened! The Lord protected Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego so that not only did they not die, but not even a single hair on their heads was burned. Amazing! Nebuchadnezzar was amazed, too. That’s why he spoke the words of the verse for the day. The king praised God for protecting his three people who refused to worship any other God but their own.

It’s pretty unlikely that you will ever have to worry about being thrown into a fiery furnace. No one threatened you with death today because you are a Christian. Praise be to God for the many Christians of the past and in other parts of the world today who boldly trust in God in dangerous situations, like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego did!

But just because your experiences are different, that doesn’t mean being a Christian is easy. Sometimes unbelievers try to convince us to worship other things—like money or fame or power, and yes, other false gods too. Sometimes friends might make fun of us for believing in Jesus or going to church. And yes, sometimes even family members might give us a hard time for worshiping the one true God.

Today we hear an amazing reminder about our gracious and powerful God. The same Savior God who loved us so much that he came to save us and who had the power to defeat death and the devil—that is the same Savior God who is with us every day. God will be with us and bless us every time our faith is tested. In the toughest moments, God will be there just like he was with Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And yes, even if we face death, we know that God will rescue us by taking us to life with him in heaven. So be bold, be brave, and worship the one true God knowing his grace and power for you!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, help me to serve and worship you only, always putting you first and before anything else in this world. 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 the command that wicked King Nebuchadnezzar gave to the people in his kingdom?
• How did Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego show they loved God more than anything?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• In the United States, there are not many giant statues of false gods that people worship. But think of two things people are often tempted to put ahead of God in their lives.
• Explain how Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego putting God first in their lives was also an opportunity to witness to other people.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree: Living in the United States where idols of money, fame, and power tempt us is more dangerous to our faith than if we lived in another country with actual idols to false gods. Explain your answer.
• Agree/Disagree: Christians are not afraid of death. Explain your answer.

 

Read: Hebrews 4:9-16

For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.
Hebrews 4:12

Living for the Lord

 

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

Zavier was a mess. The tears were streaking down his face and dripping onto his legs. His eyes were red and puffy. His nose was running. His lips were quivering as he took big breaths trying to calm himself down. “I’m sorry . . . I’m . . . just . . . so . . . sorry!” He managed to say while crying.

Zavier had been caught using his dad’s iPad without asking. But not only did he not ask to use the iPad, Zavier made bad choices while using it, and then he lied about the whole thing. His parents found out and told Zavier how upset and disappointed they were because he had sinned against God and against them.

Now Zavier felt terrible and could hardly calm down—that is, until he heard something very special from his parents. “Zavier, this was very wrong. But we love you and we forgive you . . . and so does Jesus.” “Really?” Zavier asked. “You really forgive me?” “Yes, we forgive you, just like Jesus has forgiven all of us.” Zavier cried again, but this time because he was so relieved and thankful.

Zavier experienced the very thing that God describes in the Bible verse for this devotion. God says that his Word is like a double-edged sword. That means that it is powerful and very sharp as it goes to work. One side of God’s Word we call the law. The law shows us our sin as it reminds us how we break God’s commands. Zavier was “cut” by God’s Word when his parents told him how he had sinned against God and against them. He felt guilty and it hurt.

But then Zavier experienced the other powerful side of God’s Word, something we call the gospel. The gospel is the good news that Jesus loves us, forgives us, and is our Savior from sin. Amazingly, this side of the sword of God’s Word doesn’t hurt—but actually comforts and relieves us. Zavier’s parents shared the gospel with him, the good news that Jesus forgave what he had done.

This week the Scripture readings and devotions have focused on having a humble heart of love like Jesus. Part of being a humble Christian is continually going to the powerful Word of God. There we are reminded that we have sinned against God (that’s the law). But there we are also comforted that we are forgiven for Jesus’ sake (that’s the gospel). God’s Word is so powerful when it creates faith in our hearts to humbly trust in our Savior Jesus!

Now we have the opportunity to put the sword of God’s Word to work too. We can share with other people both the law and gospel so that they also know they need a Savior and that they have one in Jesus Christ. God bless us as we humbly share his Word with others!

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, your Word is so powerful! It shows us our sin, but it also shows us our Savior. Thank you for creating faith in my heart to believe in Jesus. Now fill my heart with courage to share your Word with others too. 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

• God’s Word is like a two-edged sword. Name the two powerful sharp sides.
• What are times or places that you can read or hear God’s powerful Word?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Explain what the law does and what the gospel does in God’s Word.
• When would you share the law with someone? When would you share the gospel with someone?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree: Some people have sinned so much and so badly in life that they don’t deserve to hear the good news of the gospel. Explain your answer.
• Even though God’s Word is so powerful and effective, why is it that we are often so afraid to share it? How can we overcome that?

 

Read: Mark 10:35-45

When the ten heard about this, they became indignant with James and John. Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
Mark 10:41-45

You First

 

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

“I’m the best!” Brayden whispered, pointing at the A+ on his spelling test. Avery looked at him and rolled her eyes. “Oh boy, here we go again!” she thought to herself. You see, all the kids in first grade had been getting used to Brayden saying this. Brayden would get a homerun in kickball and shout, “I’m the best!” as he was rounding the bases. Brayden would finish his math facts sheets before anyone else and tell his friends, “I’m the best at math!” No matter what it was, Brayden always liked to tell everyone how great he thought he was.

Unfortunately, not many of Brayden’s classmates agreed with him. Usually this made the other students so upset that they didn’t even want to play with Brayden at recess or eat with him at lunch. Sadly, the one thing that Brayden actually was the best at was being proud and selfish.

Some of Jesus’ disciples had a similar problem in the story today. The brothers James and John had come to Jesus and asked if they could have a special privilege. They asked if they could sit on his right and left side some day in glory. In a sense, you could say they wanted to be the best in Jesus’ kingdom. When the other ten disciples heard about this, they were very upset. “Why should they be the best? Why can’t we be the best? We want to be treated specially in Jesus’ kingdom, too!”

That’s when Jesus had to bring all his disciples together and teach them something important. Jesus told them that many worldly rulers like to use their power and authority to try to be the best and rule over other people. (Even today we see this same thing sometimes with celebrities, athletes, and political leaders.) But Jesus teaches his disciples both then and now something very strange to this world—whoever wants to be first and best should be like a servant.

For an example of this, we need look no further than Jesus himself. Jesus is the best. He is God. Yet Jesus humbly came not to be served by us as the best. Instead, he came to serve us and treat us like we are the best. Jesus sacrificed himself to be the ransom—the payment—that would pay for our sins and give us the gift of life in heaven. We love and treasure our Savior so much because he served us with such love. The important lesson we learn today is that our joy as Christians is to put others first and love them just as Jesus has loved us.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for humbling yourself to serve us by giving your life to die for us and pay for our sins. Help me to be humble and to put others first in love, just like you did. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What does it mean to be proud? How did the disciples act proud and selfish?
• What does it mean to be humble? How did Jesus act humbly with love?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think so many people act selfishly today and try to be “the best”?
• Jesus is true God and actually is “the best.” Explain why Jesus didn’t act like it here in this world.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree: It is always wrong to put your own wants or desires before that of others. Explain your answer.
• Identify two ways that you can be humble and put others first.

 

Read: 2 Kings 5:14-27

Then Naaman and all his attendants went back to the man of God. He stood before him and said, “Now I know that there is no God in all the world except in Israel. So please accept a gift from your servant.”

The prophet answered, “As surely as the Lord lives, whom I serve, I will not accept a thing.” And even though Naaman urged him, he refused.
2 Kings 5:15-16

Which One Are You?

 

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

The two men couldn’t have been any more different! One was named Naaman. Naaman was from a different country that was an enemy to Israel. Naaman had a big problem—he had leprosy. Leprosy was a very bad and contagious skin disease. A kind young girl from Israel suggested that Naaman go ask one of God’s prophets for help. So Naaman found Elisha, Elisha told him to go and wash in the river, and Naaman was healed by the Lord in a great miracle!

Naaman was so thankful! He expressed it in today’s Bible verses. Now he knew that the Lord was the one true God. He wanted to thank God and his prophet Elisha, so he offered a very kind and very big gift to Elisha. But the prophet Elisha did not take it. He didn’t need any gifts for doing the Lord’s work.

But Gehazi was a very different person. Gehazi was Elisha’s helper. When he saw how big the gift was that Naaman had offered, he was greedy and wanted it. So Gehazi ran to Naaman and lied to him in order to take the big gift for himself. God was not pleased with Gehazi’s sin, and Gehazi ended up getting the leprosy that Naaman had.

These two men were very different. Which one are you like? Are you thankful for God’s grace and blessings like Naaman? Or are you greedy and selfish, wanting lots of things for yourself like Gehazi?

When we see things that we want on TV, in stores, or online, it can be very easy for us to be like Gehazi. Sinful hearts want us to love things of this world. Before we know it, Satan can lead us to be greedy and selfish like Gehazi.

It is important for us to remember that we were just like Naaman. We have a disease, too. Not leprosy. Our disease is called sin, and it’s even more dangerous because it can send us to hell. Thanks be to God that he has healed us of this disease! Jesus is the cure! He washed us clean, not in a river but in his own blood! What a miracle!

Like Naaman, we can now look for opportunities to show our thanks to God and to other people. How we use our time, our talents, and our treasures shows how thankful we are to God for all that he has done. May God give us thankful hearts that are happy to serve him every day!

Closing Prayer:

Lord God, thank you for the many blessings you have given to me. But best of all, you have healed me of the disease of sin by forgiving me through your Son, Jesus. Now help me to show my thanks in the way that I live. 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 Naaman, the man from another country, so thankful to God and to Elisha?
• Why can we be so thankful to God?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why is being greedy a dangerous sin?
• Explain why being greedy and selfish also breaks the First Commandment.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree. It is sinful to want new or nice things. Explain your answer.
• Describe how Christians can learn to be happier and more content in life.

Hymn: CW 421:1,3-4 – All Depends on Our Possessing

All depends on our possessing God’s abundant grace and blessing,
Though all earthly wealth depart.
They who trust with faith unshaken In their God are not forsaken
And e’er keep a dauntless heart.

Many spend their lives in fretting Over trifles and in getting
Things that have no solid ground.
I shall strive to win a treasure That will bring me lasting pleasure
And that now is seldom found.

Well he knows what best to grant me; All the longing hopes that haunt me,
Joy and sorrow, have their day.
I shall doubt his wisdom never—As God wills, so be it ever—
I to him commit my way.

 

Read: Ephesians 5:21-6:4

Wives, submit yourselves to your own husbands as you do to the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church, his body, of which he is the Savior. Now as the church submits to Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.
Ephesians 5:22-25

Dancing Together

 

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

Have you ever seen professional dancers? Maybe you’ve seen some on TV shows like America’s Got Talent or Dancing with the Stars. Wow, are they good! Some of the couples do amazing things! Can you picture them dancing together? Their feet move so quickly as they twirl and spin around. The very strong man lifts up the woman who is so graceful and elegant. She trusts him completely to hold her up in the air. At the same time, while the man is showing off his strength, the woman gets the spotlight for her dancing skills, too. Together, they make an incredible team.

What would happen though if they didn’t work as a team? What if the man wanted to lead in one direction, but the woman wanted to dance in a different direction? They would bump into each other or step on each other’s toes! Ouch! Or what if the man wanted to steal the spotlight and only show off his skills? That would be pretty mean to the woman who is also so good at dancing! Or, what if the man just stood in the corner and decided not to dance at all? That would be lazy, and the team would be a total failure.

In many ways, God designed marriage to be like one of these beautiful dancing teams. One partner is facing forward while the other has their back to the direction of travel. The forward partner takes the lead for the benefit of the dance. The apostle Paul says in the Scripture for today that the husband is the head, or leader, of the marriage. But that doesn’t mean he is the boss or the king of the wife. Paul says he is a leader like Jesus. That means husbands should be loving, humble, and gentle for the benefit of the marriage. They should be so loving that they want to serve and help their wives in every way—even to the point of being willing to die for their wives like Jesus did for us.

Paul then says that wives “submit” to their husbands. But this doesn’t mean that they are less important or just cook and clean all the time. Definitely not! This means that wives should love and honor their husbands just like we Christians love and honor our leader, Jesus. Wives are equally important partners and team members in the marriage.

When husbands and wives follow God’s plans, it looks like a beautiful dancing couple. They work together. Both get the spotlight as sometimes the husband has his gifts and abilities on display, and sometimes the wife does. Neither selfishly does whatever they want. Neither is lazy, doing nothing. Instead, like a dancing couple, they work hard and work together to have a beautiful relationship just like God planned.

Just like doing a special dance is difficult, so is marriage. It takes a lot of work and practice. Thanks to Jesus, there is forgiveness for the times the dance of marriage doesn’t look so pretty. And thanks to Jesus, he offers strength to help husbands and wives continue their beautiful dance together.

Closing Prayer:

Lord God, you bless husbands and wives with a beautiful partnership in marriage. Help all husbands and wives to honor and respect each other as they work together in love. 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 is a marriage like working together on a team?
• Name two or three ways that husbands and wives can work together in a marriage?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How is marriage like two people dancing together? How is it different?
• God says that husbands are to lead in a marriage like Christ. What are ways husbands do that?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Many people wrongfully think that wives are less important in marriage. Explain how God designed wives to be different yet equal in a marriage.
• Explain how our relationship with Jesus is similar to the relationship of a husband and wife. Explain how it is different.

Hymn: CW 506:1,5 – Oh, Blest 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!

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: Mark 10:2-16

“It was because your hearts were hard that Moses wrote you this law,” Jesus replied. “But at the beginning of creation God ‘made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate.”
Mark 10:5-9

The Original Plan

 

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

All the adults were playing cards, laughing, and having a great time. What a fun party! Suddenly, they paused their fun game and asked an important question. “Where are the kids?” The adults had been having fun, but the kids were quiet—too quiet. The experienced parents knew that this often meant trouble with their four and five-year-olds.

The parents left the dining room and went to the playroom. What they saw made them burst out loud in laughter. One of the little girls had a sparkly white summer dress on and she was holding two dandelions they picked from outside. One of the little boys was wearing his dad’s suit coat. It was so big it touched all the way down to the floor. Another boy was standing in front of those two with a white sheet wrapped around him like a pastor’s robe. The kids explained to their parents what they were doing. They were playing “wedding.”

Getting married is something that many young people dream of. What will the wedding day be like? What will your husband or wife be like? To be married is a wonderful blessing that God gives to a man and woman. But sadly, the devil always likes to try and ruin God’s beautiful blessings. This is certainly true with marriage.

Some leaders once came and tried to trick Jesus about this. They asked Jesus if it was okay for a marriage to end, and then they asked him why so many marriages ended. Jesus knew just how to answer them—with God’s Word. Jesus spoke to them the words for the devotion today as he told them that since the very beginning with Adam and Eve, God had planned for a man and a woman to be married and enjoy their love until death.

God planned that the special love that husbands and wives have for each other could be just a little picture of the love that he has for us. You see, as a husband and wife love and honor each other, so God loves us even more. He loved us so much that he was willing to die on a cross for us. In response, we love and honor God.

Thank God for marriage! It is a wonderful gift and a beautiful picture of how God loves us. And when marriage doesn’t go as God planned, thank God for his forgiveness! Jesus forgives every sin and gives us opportunity to live in his love once again. God help us then to honor and treasure the beautiful gift he has given in marriage!

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, you have blessed this world with a wonderful gift called marriage. Help husbands and wives to love and honor each other in a way that is pleasing to 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

• Who first started the idea of marriage? When?
• Who were the first married people?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why does Satan always want to ruin the blessings that God gives to us (like marriage and many other things)?
• Do you ever think about being married some day? What do you think that will be like?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Name two things in the world today that go against what God planned and designed for marriage?
• Sadly, not all marriages last and not every family has a married husband and wife in it. Explain why Jesus’ grace and love are so important and so comforting for these situations.

Hymn: CW 506:1-2 – Oh, Blest 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: Numbers 11:16,24-29

However, two men, whose names were Eldad and Medad, had remained in the camp. They were listed among the elders, but did not go out to the tent. Yet the Spirit also rested on them, and they prophesied in the camp. A young man ran and told Moses, “Eldad and Medad are prophesying in the camp.”

Joshua son of Nun, who had been Moses’ aide since youth, spoke up and said, “Moses, my lord, stop them!”

But Moses replied, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!”
Numbers 11:26-29

Are You Jealous?

 

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

Nora loved attention. During classes when teachers would ask questions, she would be the one to raise her hand and do the, “Ooh ooh ooh! Look at me, me, me!” thing. At lunch she talked and told jokes non-stop. In gymnastics, she loved to pose on the podium when she won medals (and she loved to tell her classmates later how many she won). Nora loved attention so much that it started to become a problem.

That year the school was going to do Frozen for their annual school musical. Of course, Nora wanted to be Anna in the musical. The problem is, she didn’t get the part. She didn’t get the part of Elsa, either. Carly and Heidi were going to be Anna and Elsa. Nora was going to be Olaf. Nora thought, “What? Olaf? A dumb snowman? How come Carly and Heidi got to be Anna and Elsa? They aren’t even that good at singing! I’m waaaay better! This isn’t fair!” Nora was so angry because she was jealous. In fact, she was so jealous that she didn’t even think to be happy for her friends (who were actually very good singers and actresses)!

In today’s reading, we hear about another story of jealousy. Certain people had been blessed by God to be leaders and to prophesy—to speak God’s words. Two men named Eldad and Medad didn’t follow all of God’s directions—and yet they were still leaders and still prophesying (speaking God’s words). Joshua, who was Moses’ helper, was so jealous that he told Moses to stop them at once!

But Moses teaches Joshua and us an important lesson. Moses was happy for Eldad and Medad. He was glad that God had blessed them to be leaders and to speak his words, too. By doing this, Moses showed that he was humble. He thought of others and cared for others before he cared for himself. That’s something that Nora struggled with, and something we do, too.

Moses was a very humble and caring person, but Jesus is the most humble and loving of all. Jesus lovingly thought of others so much that he humbled himself to take our place and die on a cross. By doing that he won forgiveness for us, even though we don’t deserve it. We will get to be in heaven with him even though we haven’t earned it. But this doesn’t make Jesus jealous, it makes him so happy!

Knowing how Jesus humbly put us first and loved us, let’s live like Jesus and show that same kind of love to others!

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, help me to be humble and to love others like Jesus did. Help me also to be happy for others when they receive blessings from you. Protect my heart from being jealous, and fill it instead with love. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What does it mean to be jealous?
• Have you ever been jealous of someone else?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think it is so difficult to be happy for other people when they are successful or receive blessings from God?
• The Bible says, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” Explain how that verse can help us to be more humble.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Think of one good example of people in the Bible who were humble and loving (besides Jesus) and one bad example of people who were not.
• Agree or Disagree: People who are jealous aren’t upset with the other person, they are actually upset with God. Explain your answer.

Hymn: CW 462:1,3 – Oh, that the Lord Would Guide My Ways

Oh, that the Lord would guide my ways
To keep his statutes still!
Oh, that my God would grant me grace
To know and do his will!

Assist my soul, too apt to stray,
A stricter watch to keep;
And should I e’er forget your way,
Restore your wand’ring sheep.

 

Read: James 3:13-18

But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.
James 3:17

Living for the Lord

 

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

There was something very different about Kyle. He didn’t act like the other kids at his school. Whenever there was an argument at recess during kickball, Kyle was the one who helped figure out a solution. After lunch, Kyle was the one who stayed longer and helped clean up the lunchroom. When a classmate was struggling with math, Kyle would spend his free time helping with the problems instead of playing on the classroom computer.

Kyle was different because he was a Christian. His parents, his pastor, his Sunday School teacher—they all taught him about Jesus and how much he has loved us. They also taught Kyle about how to show that kind of love to other people. Kyle was not trying to win any special awards or treats at school by being nice. He simply loved other people because he loved Jesus.

In the Bible verses for today, James tells us that this is the way all Christians can act when they have “wisdom that comes from heaven.” This means Christians can make good choices that are God-pleasing when God is guiding them. When we make these God-pleasing choices, James says that we will have pure thoughts and words (not sinful or dirty). We will love peace (instead of arguing or fighting). We will be considerate and submissive as we put others before ourselves. We will be full of mercy and good fruit as we do good things in love, and we will be sincere (which means to be fair and genuinely kind).

That’s a lot of things to think about and a lot of things to do! But not to worry! Jesus did all these things perfectly and forgives all your sins. He is the one who gives you the strength to live such a godly life. His love and his power are just what we need to help us do good things for others.

When we show this kind of love for other people—whether at school or on sports teams or at the store or anywhere—we will look different. We will stand out as people who live in love. And this is very important! Why? Well, when Christians stand out as different because we love other people, that points them to Jesus who loves other people. One Bible verse says this, “We love because he first loved us.” Our great motivation is to love other people because God has shown us love first in Jesus. Now go out into the world and show love to others so that they can see the love of Jesus too!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for so loving the world that you sent your one and only Son. Fill me with your love so that I can show that same kind of love 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

• Why would Christians want to do nice and loving things for other people?
• Name two good things that you can do for other people that would make God happy.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What makes it challenging for us to show love to other people in the ways we heard described today?
• Identify a way that you can become a more loving person toward others.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How would you show love to someone who tells you they don’t believe in Jesus and thinks the Bible is dumb?
• Some people say that they are Christians, but they don’t live like it or show it. Why is that dangerous both for them and their relationships with other people?

Hymn: CW 484:1,3 – Brothers, Sisters, Let Us Gladly

Brothers, sisters, let us gladly
Give to God our all, our best—
Service hearty, thorough, honest,
With a living love impressed.
All our duty, all our striving,
All our time to him belong;
Praise him, then, with true devotion;
Come before him with a song.

Gracious Lord, accept our service
For the sake of Christ, your Son;
Lo, our hope abides now only
In the righteousness he won.
Bless and save us; help and guide us;
Watch to comfort and restore
Till in heav’n we rest rejoicing,
Praising you forevermore.

 

Read: Mark 9:30-37

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

They came to Capernaum. When he was in the house, he asked them, “What were you arguing about on the road?” But they kept quiet because on the way they had argued about who was the greatest.
Mark 9:30-34

Me First!?

 

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

“It’s my turn.” “No, it’s not. It’s my turn to pick.” “That’s not fair, you just had a turn.” “Fine, you can pick this time, but then I get the next three times.” “What? That’s crazy!”

Gabe and Owen argued like this nearly every day. The brothers got so upset, they even started pushing each other before their father finally stepped in. What were they arguing about, you ask? Emptying the dishwasher. That’s right, they fought about the dishwasher because each boy wanted to pick the top part to empty since it had less dishes. In other words, they were arguing about who would do less work.

That’s not all though. Gabe and Owen often argued about who did more chores on Saturday, who got the last glass of chocolate milk, whose turn it was to sit in the front seat of the car, and so much more.

Does any of this happen at your house? Sometimes we get love totally backwards! Instead of loving other people like our siblings or our parents or our friends, we act selfishly and put ourselves first. When we should be loving others or loving God first, we are so quick to think of ourselves first!

The disciples did the same thing in the story today. Jesus was trying to teach them about his great love—how he would suffer and die for them and for all people. But they didn’t understand what he was saying. Why not? Because they were too busy arguing about who was the greatest! Their selfishness kept them from seeing who really is the greatest of all—Jesus, who loves us so much.

May God forgive us for all the times we selfishly love ourselves more than we love other people or more than we love God. Thank God that Jesus suffered and died to take away those sins! May that humble love of Jesus help us to love each other just like he loved us!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, help me to love you and to love others with the same kind of selfless love that you have shown to us. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What does it mean to be selfish?
• Can you think of the most recent time that you have been selfish?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Identify a way that people show a “me first” attitude at home, at school, or at their jobs.
• Identify as many ways as you can that Jesus showed a “you first” attitude during his life and ministry.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• 1 John 4:19 says, “We love because he first loved us.” Explain what that means in your own words.
• Explain this statement: Being humble is not thinking less of yourself, but rather thinking of yourself less.

Hymn: CW 484:1 – Brothers, Sisters, Let Us Gladly

Brothers, sisters, let us gladly
Give to God our all, our best—
Service hearty, thorough, honest,
With a living love impressed.
All our duty, all our striving,
All our time to him belong;
Praise him, then, with true devotion;
Come before him with a song.

 

Read: Isaiah 50:4-10

The Sovereign Lord has opened my ears;
I have not been rebellious, I have not turned away.
I offered my back to those who beat me,
my cheeks to those who pulled out my beard;
I did not hide my face from mocking and spitting.
Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced.
Isaiah 50:5-7

His Victory, My Victory

 

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

Could anything be more awful? Could anyone be more angry, mean, or full of hatred? Jesus, our loving Savior, was beaten and bruised and bloodied by his enemies. They made fun of him. They spit on him. They nailed him to a cross! How terrible! How sad! How awful!

The words that we hear from Isaiah today are a prophecy. That means these words predict the future. They are very special words about the future. These are words of Jesus himself describing how he would suffer and die about 700 years before it actually happened.

Yet even worse than the pain of being beaten and hated, Jesus also suffered the pain of the sin and guilt of all people. He took all of your sins and all of my sins onto his own shoulders at the cross. He died to pay for what you have done and what I have done.

But the wonderful news of God’s love and grace is that there is a happy ending to the story. Jesus crushed Satan at the cross and forgave us all those sins. Jesus then rose from the dead in victory, and because he lives, we will live with him in heaven. Isaiah foretold this too when he said, “Because the Sovereign Lord helps me, I will not be disgraced.”

In the first devotion this week, Jesus reminded us that sometimes we still struggle in our lives. We have many temptations and sins to fight against. Sometimes there will be people who don’t like us, just like they didn’t like Jesus. It may feel like we are alone as we suffer in this world.

But not to worry, Christian friends! Jesus is on our side. The one who suffered, died, and rose in victory is now with us. Jesus is with us in everything that we do in life. When we struggle, he gives us strength. When we suffer, he gives us peace. When we sin, he gives us forgiveness. And when we die, he will give us heaven.

The beautiful truth of today is that the words of Jesus that Isaiah spoke are now our words. We can say that “The Sovereign Lord helps me.” We can say that “his victory is my victory.”

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, you know my pain and my hurt because you suffered too. Give me strength to get through this life until I enjoy the victory you have prepared for me in the next 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

• Describe something painful that Jesus suffered.
• What was the worst suffering and pain that Jesus experienced? Why?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How was it possible that Isaiah was able to predict the future about Jesus?
• How do we know for sure that Jesus won the victory of sin, death, and hell?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Agree/Disagree: Jesus rising from the dead is the greatest miracle of all time. Explain your answer.
• “His victory is my victory.” Explain why that little phrase about Jesus is something that can change your life.

Hymn: CW 465:1-2 – Jesus, I My Cross Have Taken

Jesus, I my cross have taken, All to leave and follow you.
Destitute, despised, forsaken, You on earth once suffered, too.
Perish ev’ry fond ambition, All I’ve ever hoped or known;
Yet how rich is my condition! God and heav’n are still my own.

Let the world despise and leave me; They have left my Savior, too.
Human hearts and looks deceive me; You are not, like them, untrue.
And since you have smiled upon me, God of wisdom, love, and might,
Foes may hate and friends may shun me—Show your face, and all is bright.