Devotions

Last Sight – June 29, 2025

2025/06/29/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

When he [Jesus] had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven.
Luke 24:50,51

Last Sight

We tend to remember people by the way they looked the last time we saw them, right? Sure! That’s part of the fun of class reunions.

What a sight Jesus gave to his disciples on this; the last time they saw him. His hands are up, in blessing. There are the nail marks, reminding them that he’s forgiven them. He’s ascending up into the sky, reminding them of his power. And the Bible tells us that “a cloud hid him from their sight.” In other words, he hadn’t left them; they just couldn’t see him with their physical eyes.

Do you think that last sight of Jesus—as they remembered the nail marks, the hands upraised in blessing, the power—may have helped the disciples? As they remembered that he remained with them—do you think that brought them peace, particularly at times of struggle? I’m sure it did.

You know what? Jesus didn’t take a few days off last week—he remained with us, just as he had promised. Nor did Jesus somehow become less powerful last week. And Jesus didn’t stop blessing us last week—those hands of his remained upraised. And Jesus didn’t stop loving us last week—the nail scars were still there. And you know what else? Jesus isn’t taking any time off this week, next week, or the week after that. And he isn’t going to leave you, or stop blessing you, or stop loving you.

He can’t! With the nail marks of the cross, he has engraved you on the palms of his hands. You are always in his sight, always in his mind, always under his powerful and loving protection.

Prayer:

Jesus, when I face struggles, remind me that you are always with me. And may the thought of the nail marks in your hands help me remember your love for me. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Enduring Temple – June 28, 2025

2025/06/28/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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I did not see a temple in the city, because the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple.
Revelation 21:22

Enduring Temple

Perhaps the most famous church building in all of England is St Paul’s Cathedral in London. It is famous for many reasons. For one, it has dominated the London skyline since before the birth of the United States. For another, it’s been the site for numerous historic events, from royal weddings to state funerals.

Its greatest fame, however, may have come from World War II. If you go online and search the words: “Photo – St Paul’s – WWII,” you’ll see why. You’ll see a picture of London just after a severe German bombing raid. Every building in the picture is a smoking ruin of rubble—every building except St Paul’s. That picture rallied the spirits of the British people throughout the rest of the war.

In our twenty-first century society, it often feels as if we Christians are simply enduring one long bombing raid. Everything we believe seems to be under attack. Everything we hold dear seems to be a target.

But take a closer look at the picture. Yes, Christianity is under attack, as it has always been. And yes, the forces of Satan and sin have turned much of our society into a smoking ruin of rubble. But above the dust and debris of a fallen world, there still stands the enduring temple of our God. It endures because that temple is the Lamb of God himself.

In that temple, you will find shelter and forgiveness. In that temple, you will find refreshment, life, and light. For that enduring temple is your Savior, who died and rose and lives for you.

Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ, in the smoking rubble of this fallen world, you remain and endure. Your promises never fail. Move me by your Spirit to find my refuge in you. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Your Story Starts at Home – June 27, 2025

2025/06/27/in Devotions, Family Devotions

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Read: Luke 8:26-39

The man from whom the demons had gone out begged to go with him, but Jesus sent him away, saying, “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” So the man went away and told all over town how much Jesus had done for him.
Luke 8:38-39

Your Story Starts at Home

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

What a nightmare. Demons are more frightening than any scary movie. The Gospels tell us about several people who were possessed by demons. We don’t know exactly why this happened so much when Jesus was on earth. Some people think the devil was showing off his power and trying to get attention because Jesus was performing so many miracles. Others think the devil uses different ways today to hurt people and keep them away from God.

One of the saddest stories is the man in Luke 8. He didn’t have any clothes. He didn’t live in a house. He used to be chained up, but he had broken free and now lived among the tombs—all alone. But what was worse than all of this? His soul was lost. He was controlled by demons.

Then Jesus came. The man said his name was Legion, because he had so many demons in him. But Jesus is always stronger than Satan. Just like he beat the devil in the wilderness, Jesus beat the devil here too. Jesus cast out the demons and saved the man. His life was changed forever.

He wanted to go with Jesus—wouldn’t you? But Jesus told him to go back home. Why? Because there were people at home who needed to hear about God’s love. “Return home and tell how much God has done for you.” That’s a mission plan! It was simple. It was powerful. The man had a story to tell—what Jesus had done for him.

That’s your mission too. Every day, go home and remind your family how good God has been to you. Tell others about what Jesus has done—how he forgives you, loves you, and gives you eternal life. You don’t need to go far. The mission starts right where you are.

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for a family that helps us grow in our faith and spends time with us in your Word. Help us remember every day—especially the tough ones—that you have done good things for 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

Why do you think the man wanted to go with Jesus?
What would you say if Jesus told you to go home and tell others about him?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

If Jesus helped someone in your town, who would you want him to help—and why?
Why do you think Jesus wanted the man to stay and tell others instead of coming with him?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What’s something kind or amazing someone has done for you? How did it make you feel?
What are some ways you can “go home and tell” the good things God has done—even if it’s just to one person?

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Military Devotion – Hope in Suffering – June 27, 2025

2025/06/27/in Devotions, Military Devotions

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Based on Romans 5:1-5

A few weeks ago, I was admitted to the hospital and spent three nights there for an infection I had in my body. The medical staff is still not sure how it happened or what it was, but the doctors and nurses took good care of me, giving me lots of antibiotics to flush the infection out of my body.

I wanted to share this with you because as you are lying in the hospital for three nights, when they shove you in that MRI machine, and as you’re lying on your back immobile for two hours after a spinal tap, you have a lot of time to think.

I know there are a lot of you who have been in a similar situation. Some of you have been hospitalized because of injuries related to combat or training accidents—I am thinking of specific individuals who have gone through that ordeal. Some of you have spent time in the hospital, or you’ve cared for others who have been in the hospital. There’s a lot of time to think when you’re in the hospital . . . a lot of time to think about pain and suffering.

There’s only one thing that matters in that situation, and it is not your spouse, your children, your parents, or your friends. What matters most in times of suffering and pain is asking yourself this: What has God promised me in these moments? What happens, at least what happened for me, is that you really have nowhere else to go but to God’s promises. Some of those promises that I went back to during my time in the hospital were words from the apostle Paul in Romans chapter 5 that speak to suffering.

Paul writes: “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1). This is what matters most in those moments of suffering—that God has justified you. He has declared you “not guilty.” If you ever doubt that, go to the cross and see Jesus, accused as the guilty one for us so God can declare you and me to be justified, not guilty, innocent of all guilt—through faith in Christ.

The result of that is we have “peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” This peace is not some kind of manufactured peace, like a show of force in Eastern Europe against our near-peer competitors. This is peace that is manufactured by Jesus, knowing that there is peace between us and God; peace between sinners and a holy, righteous God; and this peace is won by Jesus. We know there is forgiveness for us, and so we have the peace of knowing that we are forgiven. There is peace of knowing we are innocent.

There are more results for us because we are justified. Paul says, “. . . through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand” (Romans 5:2a). There is access to God through our prayers as we lie in the hospital. God hears our prayers. God has access to us through his words of promise. And I really like this consequence of our declaration of innocence: “we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand.” This means that no matter what is going on in your life, or in the life of a friend or loved one, you stand in God’s grace, his undeserved love for you. That’s massive—to know that whatever it is you are going through, what it is you are suffering, you stand in God’s grace.

And here’s another result of our declaration of innocence: “And we boast in the hope of the glory of God” (Romans 5:2b). The thing that we can boast about while in our suffering and weakness is the hope of the glory of God. God will reveal his glory in me and through me, through weakness and through suffering. And not just now, here on earth, but Jesus says, “I am going to share my glory with you in heaven.”

Paul then continues to the fact that we are justified, that we have peace with God, that we have access to God, that we stand in God’s grace, that we share in God’s glory. He says this: “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” (Romans 5:3-5).

The result of all of this—justification, peace, access to God, standing in his grace, the hope of the glory of God—puts suffering into perspective. God has a purpose for it. He says that your suffering produces perseverance, and perseverance produces character, and character produces hope.

Perseverance is long-suffering. You have a ten-mile ruck march ahead of you, and you have anywhere between 30 to 100 pounds on your back. You will get through it. You know you will because you’ve been there before. This produces the kind of character that says, Yes, I will get through this because I’ve done this before.

When you encounter suffering again, you think: I’ve been down this road before. God has been my comfort. He has been my strength. God has been my hope. He has reminded me again and again that I am innocent in his sight. I have his grace. I have all of these things. And so I am going to get through this.

All of this produces hope. This hope is a sure confidence that God is mine and I am his. His love has been poured into my heart through his Holy Spirit. And I know I have his Holy Spirit and so do you, because he has put his name on you in the waters of your baptism. All these things are true.

Whatever it is you are suffering, go back to the promises God has made to you. And if you are not going through suffering now, my friends, go back to these promises now. Keep going back to these promises, so that when you do suffer—and you will—these are the truths the Holy Spirit will remind you of. This is all that matters in that moment. You have hope in your suffering.

Prayer:
Almighty God and Father, dwelling in majesty and mystery, filling and renewing all creation by your eternal Spirit, and manifesting your saving grace through our Lord Jesus Christ, in mercy cleanse our hearts and lips so that, free from doubt and fear, we may ever worship you, the one true, immortal God, with your Son and the Holy Spirit, living and reigning, now and forever.

This month as our nation’s military raises awareness for post-traumatic stress, we come before your throne and ask you, because you are a compassionate and gracious God, to move those who are suffering silently to reach out and ask for help. Move us and others to open our ears to listen, and then to open our mouths to speak your message of hope through Jesus, who lives and reigns over all things, who comes to redeem and restore all things, yes, even those hearts and minds hijacked by trauma. In your name we pray. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

The Secret to Immortality – June 27, 2025

2025/06/27/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
2 Timothy 1:9,10

The Secret to Immortality

To live forever. That has been the goal of many a man throughout history. You might think back to your school days and reading about Juan Ponce de Leon and his quest for the Fountain of Youth. Maybe you think of the nightmarish tales of vampires and the immortality they seek. Or perhaps you’ve been reading about the miracles of modern science, gene therapy, and other breakthroughs that doctors claim are just years away from being attained, that could sustain a person’s life here on this planet for years, if not decades, longer.

Why is there this fascination with living forever? Because death seems so final. After all, I’ve never seen someone come back from the dead. I’m guessing you haven’t either. Death means the curtain closes and the show is over.

However, God tells us that death isn’t the end, and that immortality is not just a possibility but a certainty. And I have great news for you about that: you don’t need to go traipsing through the Everglades of Florida like Ponce de Leon nor do you need to wait for the progress of modern medicine. The fact is that God gives us the source of eternal life through his holy Word by pointing us to Christ Jesus, who, as Paul wrote, “destroyed death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.”

Even though you and I haven’t seen someone come back from the dead, Jesus did it! And he promises that if we put our trust in him, he will gift us with that amazing gift of eternal life.

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for sending us your Son, who has brought to light the truth of life eternal. Help me to put my trust in him and rest assured that because he defeated death, I will, too. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

A New Life. A Holy Life. – June 26, 2025

2025/06/26/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace.
2 Timothy 1:9

A New Life. A Holy Life.

With what are you struggling today? Maybe you don’t deal with stress in the healthiest way? Bills pile up, you can’t make ends meet at the end of the month, and your boss is far too demanding. So, you find yourself being short-tempered with your family. Maybe there are even times you grab for pills, or the bottle and you tell yourself, ‘It’s just to take the edge off,’ but you know it’s a problem.

Or perhaps you’ve found yourself sleeping with someone who is not your spouse. You know it’s not right. You reason that you’re in love and don’t want to break up. But you still know deep down that you’re crossing a line.

Whatever it might be for you, the reality is that everybody struggles to live the way God wants them to live. We know that there are things we’re supposed to do but don’t do them. We know that there are things that we’re not supposed to do, and yet we do them anyway. It’s tough to say the least.

But in the Bible, we see that God saves us from ourselves. Whatever we have done, whatever our struggle, God sent us Jesus to live in our place the life we never could and to sacrifice himself to pay for all the wrongs and errors because of his, as Paul says, grace—God’s undeserved love and kindness to us.

This is the greatest news of all, news that moves our hearts to want to make a change, news that makes us want to live for God in a different way, a holy way, as God intends for us to live.

Whatever your struggle is, I want you to know that Jesus has paid for it in full. May that news of his grace move you to live your life for him.

Prayer:

Dear God, I am sorry for my sin. I know that I deserve your full punishment for it. Thank you for sending me my Savior, Jesus, who has rescued me. Help me to live my life for you. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Want to Suffer? – June 25, 2025

2025/06/25/in Devotions, Family Devotions

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Read: 2 Timothy 1:3-10

So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
2 Timothy 1:8-10

Want to Suffer?

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

Have you ever heard of a “suffer-fest”? Some people do super-hard workouts, run marathons, jump in freezing water, or eat only certain foods to challenge themselves. Sounds tough, doesn’t it?!

But when the apostle Paul wrote a letter to his friend Timothy, he invited him to a very different kind of suffering. Paul wrote, “Join with me in suffering for the gospel” (2 Timothy 1:8). Paul wasn’t talking about running races or doing cold plunges. He was talking about being willing to go through hard things so others could hear about Jesus.

Life is hard sometimes. Even when you’re young, you know what it feels like to get hurt, to mess up, or to feel sad. We live in a world full of sin—things that go against what God wants. It can make school hard, families argue, or friendships fall apart.

But here’s the good news: Jesus already suffered for you. He died on the cross to take away your sins. You don’t have to carry them anymore. Jesus didn’t stay dead—he rose from the grave! Because he’s alive, you will live forever with him in heaven. No more pain. No more sin. No more sadness.

Paul had been in jail and treated badly just for telling people this good news. Still, he said it was worth it. Sharing Jesus and his forgiveness is one of the best things we can do. Not everyone will listen, and some people might say “no thanks” when you invite them to church. That might feel a little like suffering. But God says it’s worth it. You never know when someone might believe because you shared Jesus with them.

So, like Paul told Timothy, be brave. Be loving. Keep sharing Jesus.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, life can be hard. Sometimes it’s hard to talk about you or to live as your child. Help me remember that you already suffered for me. Give me strength to share your love and to keep going, even when it’s hard. Thank you for the promise of heaven, where all sadness will be gone. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Can you think of someone who used to make really bad choices but changed and started doing good? What do you think helped them change? (Now share Paul’s conversion story from Acts 8-9 and how Jesus changed him.)
Have you ever had a day where everything just felt really hard or sad? What helps you feel better when that happens? (Now connect that to the promise that Jesus will one day end all sadness forever in heaven.)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Has anyone ever made fun of you or someone else for being kind, honest, or standing up for someone?
What would you tell a friend to help them keep doing the right thing even when it’s hard? (Now connect it to the idea of suffering for doing what’s right, which Paul talks about.)

Questions for Middle School and Above

Why do you think it’s sometimes hard to do the right thing when others might not like it?
What helps you stay strong and keep going?

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Join With Me in Suffering – June 25, 2025

2025/06/25/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God.
2 Timothy 1:7,8

Join With Me in Suffering

I like going to parties. Recently, we had a whole string of them. Friends recently had a baby, so we enjoyed going to the baby shower. My son just turned 16, so we celebrated that. An uncle of mine recently retired, and my cousins threw a huge bash to congratulate him and wish him well in his retirement. Parties are great! People are happy. People want others to join in and get not just a slice of cake but a slice of celebration. When we have something to celebrate, it’s easy to invite others to be a part of it too.

In our Bible reading today, what Paul says seems a little odd; doesn’t it? “Join with me in suffering”? I don’t know about you, but that sounds awful to me. Suffering is something that everybody avoids any way they can, right?

Keep in mind that Paul was writing these words from prison, and very soon he was going to lose his life for telling other people about the wonders of God. And yet, this didn’t bring him discouragement or bitterness towards God. God used this suffering to draw Paul closer to him. The suffering made Paul realize how much he relied on God for everything and that God would never abandon him.

When God allows suffering into your life, remember that your God is with you and will see you through it. You can be sure because he has promised it. And he is the God who proved that he keeps his promises by giving us a Savior to deliver us from the pain of this suffering world into the paradise of heaven.

Prayer:

Dear God, use the suffering in my life to draw me closer to you and may the news of my Savior fill my heart with peace. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Fan the Flame of Faith – June 24, 2025

2025/06/24/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
2 Timothy 1:5,6

Fan the Flame of Faith

Daily Devotion – June 24, 2025

Devotion based on 2 Timothy 1:5,6

See series: Devotions

What kinds of things did you learn from your parents? Maybe Mom taught you how to bake the PERFECT chocolate chip cookie, or Dad taught you how to change a flat tire. When you were growing up, there were life lessons and skills you learned from your parents. Perhaps you have even passed those on to your children as well.

As Timothy was growing up, his mother and grandmother had given him something wonderful, something amazing—they had shared their faith in Jesus with Timothy. And, by the grace of God, that faith had grown strong. But that gift of faith needed to be nurtured. That’s why Paul encouraged him to “fan into flame” this gift from God.

Did your parents teach you about Jesus when you were young? Have you continued to feed your faith as you’ve gotten older? Sometimes we find ourselves so busy with life—marriage, job, hobbies, etc., that going to church and hearing God’s Word, well, ‘there’s just not enough time for that!’ we reason. ‘We’ll get to it later!’ we say. But, my friend, the time to feed your faith is NOW! I’m so thankful to God that you’re reading this. Because we can never hear too much about how all our sins have been paid for by Jesus and that he defeated death by rising from the grave. No matter how old I get, I can never grow out of needing to be reminded that God loves me and made me, not just the child of my mom and dad, but made me a child of my heavenly Father. Continue to fan that flame of faith!

Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for putting people in my life—family or friends—who shared with me the wonderful news about my Savior. May I continue to grow in my faith today and every day. Bless me as I also share that news of the forgiveness Jesus brings with others. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Undivided Attention: On the Mission Right Before Us – Week of June 23, 2025

2025/06/23/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Undivided Attention: On the Mission Right Before Us – Week of June 23, 2025

All the nations gather together and the peoples assemble. Which of their gods foretold this and proclaimed to us the former things? Let them bring in their witnesses to prove they were right, so that others may hear and say, ‘It is true.’
“You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me.
Isaiah 43:9–10

ECME Devotion June 23, 2025

See series: ECME Devotions

Are there days you simply feel like you’re just a referee in a room of four-year-olds? Settling arguments, picking up crayons, wiping noses, tying shoes…and then doing it all over again. You hear about “big” mission work happening overseas and wonder: Am I really doing something that matters?

Worse, you get distracted. You lose sight of why you’re here. You focus more on fixing behavior than feeding souls. You speak more about classroom rules than about Jesus. You worry more about pleasing parents than giving them the Gospel too.

Here’s the Law: we often fail to witness for Christ. We’ve let the mission drift to the background. We’ve gotten lazy, distracted, or simply tired. We’ve acted like the work before us doesn’t count – like God needs something flashier or farther away to be meaningful. That’s sin. It’s forgetting who we are and who we serve.

But listen again to what our God says:
“You are my witnesses… my servant whom I have chosen.”

Not “you might be” or “you should be,” but “you are.” By grace, through faith in Jesus, you have been chosen. Chosen, not because you are perfect, but because your Savior is. He lived, died, and rose again for you. He called you his own. And now he sends you, maybe not across the globe, but across the room – to the mission field of little faces and young families right in front of you.

That’s the beauty and the majesty of our calling – of our mission: every story time, every conversation over snack, each chat at pick-up time is an opportunity to reflect Jesus. You are his chosen witness!

God doesn’t ask you to be everywhere. He asks you to be faithful where he’s placed you. To give undivided attention to your mission, with a full heart, and with the Spirit’s help. God grant it!

Prayer:
Lord of the mission, forgive me for the times I lose sight of the mission you’ve given me. Thank you for choosing me by grace to be your witness. Give me the focus, joy, and love I need to serve all those you put in front of me today. May I always see the mission field as ripe, and may I reflect your love daily! Amen.

Christian Worship 21 744: 1, 3, 4 Rise, Shine, You People

Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Timothy’s Faith Story – June 23, 2025

2025/06/23/in Devotions, Family Devotions

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Read: 2 Timothy 1:3-10

I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.
2 Timothy 1:5-6

Timothy’s Faith Story

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

Have you ever heard names like Lois or Eunice? They aren’t very common today, but a long time ago, these were the names of Timothy’s grandma and mom. Timothy was a young pastor who loved Jesus, and he got his faith from these two special women.

The apostle Paul, a big helper for Christians back then, knew Lois and Eunice and wrote letters to Timothy to encourage him. But Timothy didn’t start believing in Jesus all by himself—he learned about Jesus from his family first!

Just like Timothy, many children today learn about God from their parents, grandparents, or someone close to them. Maybe someone reads you Bible stories, sings songs about Jesus, or prays with you. That’s how faith starts—at home and in people who love us.

Paul reminded Timothy to keep his faith strong, like fanning a small flame to make a big fire. May the Holy Spirit keep doing that saving work in your homes and hearts. Whisper a little prayer of thanks for the people who have brought Jesus into your life!

Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for the people who helped me learn about you and your love. Please help me keep my faith strong and help me share your love with others when I can. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Can you think of a prayer you say a lot?
Who taught it to you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Do you remember anything about your baptism? Why not?! Who made sure you were baptized?
Besides your family, who has influenced your faith most and why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Timothy had his grandma, mom, and Paul to help him. Who can you thank for helping you believe in Jesus?
Do you know how your parents learned about Jesus? Could you ask them to tell you their story sometime?

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Thoughts and Prayers – June 23, 2025

2025/06/23/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.
2 Timothy 1:3,4

Thoughts and Prayers

Daily Devotion – June 23, 2025

Devotion based on 2 Timothy 1:3,4

See series: Devotions

When you hear about tragedy striking family or friends, you’ll often hear both Christians and even non-Christians say, ‘You’re in my thoughts and prayers.’

Now, it’s certainly a nice gesture and people mean well when they say it, but does it actually help? If my son breaks his arm and misses out on his baseball season, the thoughts and prayers are sweet but what he’d really like is to play ball. Or if my dad goes in for what was supposed to be a simple procedure but dies on the operating table, I don’t want thoughts and prayers! I want my dad back!

But here’s the thing, there is so much in life that is out of my control, so many problems that plague my loved ones, problems that I can’t do anything about. However, God can!

The apostle Paul, who wrote the words for our devotion today to his friend, Timothy, had been separated from him. And Paul knew that the end of his life was near. He had been imprisoned for his Christian faith and was soon going to lose his life because of his faith. Paul longed to see his friend Timothy and be reunited with him. But he also knew that the situation was out of his control, so he left it all up to God with prayer. He prayed that God would bless Timothy and watch over him and keep Timothy strong in his faith. He prayed that he would be able to see Timothy again. And he prayed all those things because he knew that even though he didn’t have any control over them, God did.

There will certainly be things that are out of our control. But when we pray to God, we are demonstrating belief that nothing is beyond him. Thoughts and prayers are not just a nice sentiment. They are a beautiful act of trust!

Prayer:
Dear God, everything is under your control. And so, I pray for those in my life who are struggling and hurting. Be with them and comfort them through your Word of peace. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

It’s What We Do! – June 22, 2025

2025/06/22/in Teen Devotions

One key truth: The grace of God has been revealed to all in Jesus Christ; all who have seen it serve as witnesses of God’s grace in their various callings.

I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Rather, join with me in suffering for the gospel, by the power of God. He has saved us and called us to a holy life—not because of anything we have done but because of his own purpose and grace. This grace was given us in Christ Jesus before the beginning of time, but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior, Christ Jesus, who has destroyed death and has brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.
2 Timothy 1:3-10

It’s What We Do!

It happened innocently enough. He got a little too far ahead of his family on a hike and lost his way when he diverted onto a smaller path. He turned left. When the rest of the family got to the spot, they went to the right. Suddenly he was lost and alone in the middle of a national park, separated from his family. It took all night for his parents and other rescuers to find him. But they did eventually find him. That’s what happens when someone is lost: people drop everything that they are doing and search frantically until they are found.

What a great picture of God’s love for the people of this world. When he looked down and saw that we were spiritually lost, he acted. He saw the hopeless, helpless situation we were in because of our sin. He saw the terror that reigned in us. So he acted to find us and rescue us.

God acted in Timothy’s life to rescue him by sending first his grandmother and then his mother to share with him the faith which God granted to them. He did the same for you. He sent someone into your life to share this message of forgiveness and life with you: maybe a parent or grandparent, maybe a friend or a neighbor. Whoever it was, God’s undivided attention on your spiritual well-being led him to send someone into your life to be a witness of his love and point you to Jesus.

With our undivided attention on Jesus, he now sends us to be witnesses for him to the world. Whatever vocation God has placed you in—brother, sister, parent, friend, neighbor, classmate, co-worker—it doesn’t matter. God is sending you into the lives of other people to share with them God’s love for them in Jesus. God brings people into your life so like Lois and Eunice to Timothy, you can be a witness of God’s love to them. This isn’t just what we do as God’s people! It’s who we are! We are here on this earth to seek those who are lost in the darkness of sin and share with them the light of salvation which God offers in Jesus. Go out and be who God made you to be!

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, help us to have a love for the lost that leads us to do all we can to seek them out and witness to them about your love in Jesus. Give us the boldness and courage to speak truthfully as your witnesses and to share with others the forgiveness and life that you alone can give. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Enduring Hardships – June 22, 2025

2025/06/22/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

They preached the gospel in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.
Acts 14:21,22

Enduring Hardships

Daily Devotion – June 22, 2025

Devotion based on Acts 14:21,22

See series: Devotions

The missionary life of the apostle Paul brings to mind some exciting pictures. We can hear the water rippling over the rocks as Paul preached by a stream. We feel the warmth and joy as Paul was welcomed into homes for a meal or to stay for a few days. Those times must have been wonderful!

Then we remember that Paul was beaten, stoned, mocked, shipwrecked, rejected, ridiculed, and persecuted in many ways. How terrible those times must have been!

What happened to Paul, however, wasn’t the most important thing. The fact that people were brought to believe in Jesus or that they were built up in their faith—that’s what mattered. That could happen when Paul was strong or when persecutions and troubles made God’s grace shine all the more. We do not hear Paul wondering if it was all worth it. However, we do hear a realistic Paul say, “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.”

Paul is not saying his hardships earned him entrance into God’s kingdom. That would be an insult to Jesus, who gave his life for him. What Paul wanted his listeners and us to realize is that going through difficulties is to be expected. As Christians, we are not exempt from suffering. But we are assured that God will help us. He promises to make our difficult times work for our good. He promises that evil will not overwhelm us so that we lose our connection to him. And finally, he promises that he will rescue us from all hardships on earth and give us a life in heaven that is free of all suffering.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when I go through hardships as a result of following you and your word, remind me that these come as no surprise and that you are with me and will see me through them. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Sincere Faith

2025/06/21/in Devotions, Womens Devotions

Sincere Faith – Women’s Devotion

I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
2 Timothy 1:5

Toward the end of the apostle Paul’s life, he wrote two letters to his dear friend, a younger pastor named Timothy. In his second letter, Paul included this thoughtful passage referring to Timothy’s mother and grandmother.

What a clear testimony of how faith is passed on from generation to generation! It is a Spirit-filled reminder to prioritize teaching children about the saving work of Jesus. We can imagine the tender love of these women as they nurtured Christian faith in young Timothy. Songs, prayers, and the teachings of Jesus blessed them all as they shared sincere faith.

However, outside their home, things were quite different. Timothy was raised in a Greek culture that was permeated with false gods and open immorality. There would have been sinful sights, sounds, and temptations all around them. Timothy learned from an early age to cling to the truth of Christ even when society was corrupt with open ungodliness and evil. Sound familiar?

In Paul’s first letter, he also mentioned sincere faith. Paul urged Timothy to command people not to teach false doctrine or devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies. Paul and Timothy knew these would lead people away from Christ. Paul explained his intent, “The goal of this command is love, which comes from a pure heart and a good conscience and a sincere faith” (1 Timothy 1:5).

With sincere faith, Timothy understood the importance of preaching Christ alone, especially in a culture so strongly influenced by Satan. The goal of such faithful preaching is love. God worked through Lois and Eunice to teach Timothy about Christ and nurture him as a child of God. The Spirit continued to equip and strengthen Timothy’s faith to stand against anything other than forgiveness of sins through the sacrifice of Jesus.

Sincere faith is faith in Christ alone.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, your Word creates and nurtures faith. Help me always remember the importance of teaching your truth to the next generation. Remind me of how faithfully you work through the Word. Compel me to treasure the gift of faith and help me see the urgency of sharing the light of Jesus in this dark world. Amen.

Written by Naomi Schmidt

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Watch and Pray – June 21, 2025

2025/06/21/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Then [Jesus] returned to his disciples and found them sleeping. “Could you men not keep watch with me for one hour?” he asked Peter. “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”
Matthew 26:40,41

Watch and Pray

Daily Devotion – June 21, 2025

Devotion based on Matthew 26:40,41

See series: Devotions

In the most anxiety-filled moment of his earthly ministry, Jesus did not try to relieve his sorrow by looking to his own resources. He did not try to cope on his own. Rather, he sought help and support from his heavenly Father through prayer.

When Jesus returned from prayer, he found his three closest disciples sleeping soundly. Jesus knew that during the next few hours and days, his disciples would face many temptations to run for their lives rather than stand up for Jesus. They would be tempted to fall into hopeless despair and doubt when they saw Jesus crucified and put into a tomb. He warned them to stay alert and pray to overcome these temptations.

Jesus tells us that while our believing hearts are willing, have good intentions, and honestly want to do what is pleasing to God, our sinful natures are weak. Many temptations afflict us—temptations to give in to pet sins, to deny our Lord, and to live in opposition to him.

However, we can take heart because Jesus’ invitation to his disciples is also an invitation to us. Jesus tells us to pray! Why? Because wherever we cannot succeed, God can. Whenever we are short on power to overcome sin, he will give it to us. Whenever we lack the fortitude to step out of line from the world, he will strengthen us. With so many temptations and things assaulting our faith, Jesus tells us to watch and pray.

Pray for a stronger faith. Pray that he will move you to read and hear his Word regularly to equip you to fight the good fight of faith. Pray for the strength to say no to temptation and, in the power of forgiveness, to live as the child of God that you are.

And be assured that God is pleased to answer your prayers.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, do not permit temptation to endanger my faith or lead me to sin. Strengthen my faith by the power of your Word that I may live for you and faithfully follow your will. When I am tempted and fall into sin, forgive me for the sake of my Savior, Jesus, in whose name I boldly pray. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

He Put His Name on You – June 20, 2025

2025/06/20/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Listen to Devotion

Read: Numbers 6:22-27

“So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”
Number 6:27

He Put His Name on You

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

Do you remember in the movie Toy Story how Andy writes his name on Woody’s boot? Or on Buzz Lightyear’s foot? It’s not just a scribble. It means something—“You are mine.” Andy loves them. They’re important to him.

Or think about when someone signs a big, important paper. They write their name big and bold. That signature means, “I believe in this. I’m part of it.” That’s why we remember the name John Hancock—his name stood out! He was the first one to sign the Declaration of Independence.

God does something like that too—but even bigger. In the Bible, God told Moses to bless his people using very special words. At the end of that blessing, God said, “They will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them” (Numbers 6:27).

God has put his name on YOU.

When you were baptized, whether as a baby or older, water was poured on you and the pastor said, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” That wasn’t just something nice to say. That was God putting his name on you forever.

That means you’re his. You belong to him. You’re not just someone walking around this world—you’re God’s child. That’s your identity.

Maybe there are days when you feel left out. Or you wonder, “Does anyone really care about me?” God says, “I care. I chose you. I came to save you. I died for you. I put my name on you.”

So, when church ends and the pastor speaks that blessing again—“The Lord bless you and keep you…”—remember what’s real: God put his name on you. And he will never let you go.

Prayer:

Dear Lord God, thank you for putting your name on me in baptism. Thank you for making me your child, forever. When I feel forgotten or left out, remind me that I belong to you. Help me to live each day knowing I am yours. 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 write your name on one toy or special thing, what would it be—and why? (What makes it special or worth claiming as your own?)
What do you think it means that God wrote his name on YOU? (What does that tell you about how much he cares for you?)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

When we write our name on something, it can wear off or get lost. How is it different when God puts his name on us? (God’s name on us—through baptism—never fades or washes away!)
Have you ever seen John Hancock’s giant signature? (Ask an adult to show you!) Why do you think God wants his name on us to be just as big and bold?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Sometimes we write our name on something—but still lose it. Why will God never lose you? (Talk about how God keeps us close and never forgets his children.)
Why is it important to know you are God’s child—even on hard days? (How can that help when you’re sad, anxious, or feeling alone?)

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Different Hope – June 20, 2025

2025/06/20/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Hope does not disappoint us.
Romans 5:5

Different Hope

Daily Devotion – June 20, 2025

Devotion based on Romans 5:5

See series: Devotions

Of all the different kinds of pain you and I can experience in life, the pain of disappointment crushing hope can be one of the worst. Examples from life? A parent tells you that you cannot go to the amusement park as planned. Your first romantic relationship comes to a heartbreaking end. Your dream of flourishing in a certain field does not come true. Your move to a new city does not pan out. A child with great promise grows up to make some destructive life decisions. Your retirement plans for years of travel disappear with a diagnosis.

Many times, the words “hope” and “disappointment” go together. That, of course, is a result of sin. Our sinfulness has shattered God’s good creation. Because it has, human hope can only be frail and uncertain at best. Human hope is only a thin wish that something good might happen, but disappointment is always ready to pounce, always ready to devour.

Enter Jesus. God the Son entered our time and space to confront the one thing that has spawned all disappointment. He came to confront our sin. In so doing, he replaced our uncertainties with the certainty of himself. As our substitute, he lived a life of perfect trust in his heavenly Father’s will. In our place, he took upon himself all our sins of doubt, sins of betrayal, neglect, and broken promises. For all these and more, he suffered and died.

Then, to give us the absolute certainty that he is who he claims to be and has done what he promised to do, Jesus rose from the dead. As a result, you and I now have a kind of hope we’ve never had before. Rather than some thin wish about something that may or may not happen, we now possess a hope that rests upon the crucified and risen Son of God himself. Through faith in Jesus, you and I have a sure hope that he will carry us through every difficulty. We have a sure hope that he will guide all things for our good and that eternal life in heaven is ours.

Disappointment, therefore, does not have the final word. Jesus does.

Prayer:
Lord, when disappointment darkens my life, remind me that you have the last word. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

To Suffer – June 19, 2025

2025/06/19/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

We also rejoice in our sufferings.
Romans 5:3

To Suffer

Daily Devotion – June 19, 2025

Devotion based on Romans 5:3

See series: Devotions

In the brief span of two or three lifetimes, God has chosen to lavish upon us a staggering number of technological and medical advancements. But as I live my life day-to-day, awash in all these marvels. I can begin to presume that my life is supposed to be convenient. I can begin to presume that my life is supposed to be comfortable. I can begin to presume that my life is supposed to be smooth, easy, trouble-free, and without pain.

That presumption can even start to afflict my attitude as a Christian. Without ever mouthing the words, I may ask myself, “If I am a Christian, why do I have to suffer?”

Which brings me to the Word of my God. When he speaks to me about suffering in the Christian life, my 21st-century presumption is in for a shock. Not only does he break the news to me that I may still experience suffering in this world, but he goes so far as to say that a Christian will expect to suffer as part and parcel of the Christian life.

Then my God takes it one step further. He moves the apostle Paul to say, “We also rejoice in our sufferings.” I’ll be candid. My old sinful self does not rejoice in suffering. It flinches. It fears suffering. It wants to cry out, “Unfair!” It wants to run away.

But then he brings me back to the foot of the cross. He calls me to repentance. And through his gospel, he empowers me to see, all over again, Jesus Christ suffering to wash away my every sin, including unwillingness to suffer for his name. As he does, he refreshes my trust in his will for my life. I trust that my suffering is in his plan for me as a soldier of the cross and for a definite good that I may not yet see.

And because it is, I will rejoice.

Prayer:
Lord, when my suffering arrives, move me to trust, move me to accept, move me to rejoice. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Absolutely Glowing – June 18, 2025

2025/06/18/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Listen to Devotion

Read: Numbers 6:22-27

The LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you.
Numbers 6:25

Absolutely Glowing

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

Have you ever seen someone with a big, bright smile that lights up their whole face?

Ashley is walking down the aisle of her wedding. She’s glowing! Everyone says she looks amazing. She’s full of joy.
John just became a dad. He can’t stop smiling. He tells everyone about his new baby girl. He’s glowing with happiness.
Oliver made a gift at school for his mom. He worked hard and can’t wait to give it to her. His teacher said it was beautiful. He’s glowing with pride.

Have you ever felt like that? So full of joy or love that you just can’t hide it on your face? Maybe it happened today!

But here’s something amazing: God glows too. The Bible says his face shines on us. Why would the holy God—who is perfect and powerful—shine with happiness when he looks at us?

After all, we mess up. Sometimes we say mean things. We forget to do what we promised. We try to do what’s right, but it doesn’t always happen. We might feel disappointed in ourselves—and we’ve probably seen that look of disappointment on other people’s faces too.

But here is the good news: God still smiles when he sees you. Why? Because Jesus came to take away all your sins. The Bible says, “We have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

That means your sins are gone. Jesus paid for every one of them. God’s love fills your heart through the Holy Spirit, and now—when God looks at you, he sees someone he loves, someone he smiles at.

That’s what it means to live in God’s grace. His face shines on you—not because you’re perfect, but because Jesus is. And when you believe in Jesus, God is always happy to see you.

Prayer:

Dear Lord God, thank you for smiling at me even when I mess up. Thank you for forgiving me through Jesus. Help me remember that you love me always and help me to show your love and joy to others. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

What made you smile today? (Was it something fun, someone kind, or something silly? God gives us lots of reasons to smile!)
Can you think of something you did today that would make God smile? (Like helping someone, sharing, or saying something kind?)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What does it mean that God’s love is “undeserved”? (Why does God love us even when we don’t always do the right thing?)
Why is it a good thing that God’s love doesn’t depend on us being perfect? (Think about times you were forgiven or loved even after a mistake.)

Questions for Middle School and Above

How does it feel when someone is excited to see you? (Warm, special, happy?)
How does it feel knowing God always feels that way about you?

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Real Peace – June 18, 2025

2025/06/18/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 5:1

Real Peace

Daily Devotion – June 18, 2025

Devotion based on Romans 5:1

See series: Devotions

If you took a class on ancient history, perhaps you recall the term Pax Romana. Pax Romana is Latin for “The Roman Peace.” It refers to a period in the Roman Empire when, overall, there was very little civil unrest, there were very few wars, and there was great political stability.

Do not imagine, however, that this “peace” was some kind of Utopian Paradise. There were reasons, you see, why most people decided not to create trouble. For example, in the closing scene of the classic movie Spartacus, you see a Roman highway. On each side are crucified men as far as the eye can see. This actually happened. In response to an attempted rebellion, the Empire crucified 6,000 rebels along a major Roman road. The message was loud and clear: If you defy Rome, you’ll end up on a cross. The message worked.

It was during this period of the Pax Romana that the apostle Paul lived. In one sense, Paul’s life was not peaceful at all. People shouted at him in hatred. Others ridiculed him behind his back. Mobs threw stones at him. He received severe beatings. He endured imprisonment. And he grappled with a severe physical problem that plagued him until the day he died.

Nevertheless, God the Holy Spirit moved Paul to speak of a peace that he possessed. As far as Paul was concerned, the peace he possessed was the real thing. What Paul possessed was peace with God.

While the Roman Empire used the cross to enforce a political peace, God used the cross to deliver a real peace. God the Son, Jesus Christ, gathered up all our sins of sinful rebellion. He carried them to a Roman cross. He suffered and died on that cross. He paid for our sins in full. He secured for us peace with God.

In this world, you and I will live through moments, days, and periods that are not peaceful at all. But like Paul, you and I possess peace with God in Jesus. It’s the only peace that’s real. It’s the only peace that will last.

Prayer:
Lord, in moments that do not feel peaceful, refresh me in the peace I have in you. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Your Name – June 17, 2025

2025/06/17/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

“So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”
Numbers 6:27

Your Name

Daily Devotion – June 17, 2025

Devotion based on Numbers 6:27

See series: Devotions

Here’s a question. Can you say the names of your great-great grandparents? Unless you have a passion for genealogy, you will likely have to give that question some research. And yet, that’s only four generations in the past. Four generations. Your great-great grandparents lived, laughed, worked, and cried on this earth only a short time ago.

Which leads to another question. Four short generations from now, how many people will remember your name? Once again, unless someone in your future family tree pursues genealogy as a hobby, odds are that no one will be able to recall.

It’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? For all our work, play, struggle, and grief, the world in which we live soon forgets your name and mine.

But here is a grand and beautiful truth: your name will never be forgotten. Four generations from now, your name will never be forgotten. Seven generations from now, your name will never be forgotten. No matter how many years flow through centuries, your name will always be remembered.

Here’s how. God himself has claimed you as his very own. To make you his own, Jesus became one of us. He walked among us. On our behalf he lived a life of perfect goodness—the life you and I have failed to live. In our place he took upon himself our every sin. And as he paid for them in full on Calvary’s cross, you were on his mind and heart. And three days after his death, he raised himself back to life; all to give you the personal assurance that, through faith in him, you are his. He has placed his name upon you. He will never forget your name.

On this broken, sin-filled earth, people forget. Families forget. Past friends forget. Societies forget. In Jesus, God does not. He has called you by name. You are his.

Prayer:
Lord, in those moments when I feel forgotten, remind me that I am not. You have placed your name upon me. I am yours. Thank you. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Bless you! – June 16, 2025

2025/06/16/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Listen to Devotion

Read: Numbers 6:22-27

“‘“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’
Numbers 6:24-26

Bless you!

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

AH-CHOO!! A loud sneeze! What do you say when you hear someone sneeze? “Bless you!” You probably say it without even thinking. Maybe you learned it when you were little, just like saying “please” or “thank you.” It’s a kind thing to say. But have you ever thought about what it really means?

When we say, “Bless you,” we are not just being polite. We’re asking God to help that person feel better and stay healthy. That’s a big thing to ask—because only God gives real protection and care.

A long time ago, in the Bible, God gave his people a very special blessing. You can find it in Numbers 6. God told Moses’ brother, Aaron, to say it to the people. That’s why it’s called the Aaronic blessing. For thousands of years, God’s people have heard these words at the end of church services.

But this blessing isn’t just nice words. It’s God showing us how much he loves us. When God says, “I bless you,” he’s not just saying it—he’s doing it! He’s giving us good things like breath in our lungs, sunshine, and people who care about us.

Sometimes we think blessings are only the stuff we get. But the best blessing is that God is with us. Think about these words: “The Lord bless you and keep you.” That means God is close by. He sees when you’re sad, scared, or tired. And he promises to help.

When you feel all alone—God is right there.
When you mess up—God forgives you.
When life feels hard—God holds you close.

God’s blessings aren’t just words. They have power. Because God’s Word always does something! The Lord bless and keep you.

Prayer:

Dear Lord God, thank you for always being with me and blessing me every day. Help me remember that your love is bigger than any fear or mistake. Keep me close to you and help me be a blessing to 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

When the pastor says the blessing at the end of church, what do you notice he does with his hands? (This invites observation and curiosity—especially if they’ve noticed the sign of the cross.)
Have you seen the pastor make the sign of the cross with his hand? What do you think that means? (Encourages discussion about the meaning behind the motion—God’s forgiveness, Jesus’ love, etc.)
What is the best blessing God has ever given you? (Helps them think beyond material things—guide them toward “Jesus,” “forgiveness,” or “God being with me.”)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why do you think the name “Lord” is said three times in the blessing? What might that tell us about God? (This can introduce the idea of the Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.)
Can you think of other times during the worship service when the sign of the cross is made? (Helps them connect worship moments—baptism, confession, blessing—with God’s promises.)

Questions for Middle School and Above

Are there times when it’s hard or scary to think that God sees everything we do? (Invites honest feelings about guilt or mistakes and prepares them to hear about forgiveness.)
Have you ever had trouble falling asleep because you’re thinking about school or something that’s bothering you? (Relatable! Builds empathy.)
How can remembering God’s promise to bless and keep you help you feel better?

Download Family Devotions

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Undivided Attention: On the Mystery and Majesty of Our God – Week of June 16, 2025

2025/06/16/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Undivided Attention: On the Mystery and Majesty of Our God – Week of June 16, 2025

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.

Romans 5:1–5

ECME Devotion June 16, 2025

See series: ECME Devotions

“Watch me!” my daughter yelled from the hill at the park. Not tearing my eyes away from the conversation I was having with another parent, I replied, “I’m watching, honey!” And smart little girl that she is, my daughter returned, “No, Mom – look at me!”

I often try to give my children my focus, eye contact, my warmth. I should, I’m their mom! But it’s hard. I get distracted, overwhelmed, and I’m often running on empty.

The same thing happens with my relationship with God. I say I’m listening, that I’m paying attention, that I really focused on my morning devotion. But how often am I just giving him half of me, or less – distracted, divided, multitasking? My sinful heart is prone to wander. I elevate other voices, other tasks, other priorities. And in doing so, I sin against the One who gave me everything.

God should turn away. But instead, he turned toward me in mercy.

Because of Jesus, we stand in grace. Justified. Forgiven. Loved. Not because we earned his attention, but because he gave it freely on the cross. And through the empty tomb now we have peace with God. Even in our suffering, amidst the chaos, and in our distraction, God’s Spirit pours hope into our hearts like a steady stream.

That’s the mystery and majesty of our God: He gives us his full, undivided attention. In the classroom. At home. In our mess. And when we stop, even briefly, to give him our hearts in return, he fills us with peace that no noise can interrupt.

So, pause. Breathe. Stand in his grace. And when a little one tugs on your sleeve for attention, remember: you’re reflecting the same love your Father has shown you – patient, present, and full of peace.

Prayer:
Dear Father, I get distracted and my attention is divided so easily. Forgive me for the ways I push you aside. Thank you for never turning away from me. Help me stand in your grace and reflect your steady love and peace to all those around me today. Amen.

Christian Worship 21 586: 1-3

Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest, and make our hearts your place of rest:
come with your grace and heavenly aid, and fill the hearts which you have made.

To you, the Counselor, we cry, to you, the gift of God most high,
the fount of life, the fire of love, the soul’s anointing from above.

In you, with graces sevenfold, we God’s almighty hand behold
while you with tongues of fire proclaim to all the world his holy name.

Early Childhood Ministry Educator’s (ECME) Devotions are brought to you by WELS Commission on Lutheran Schools.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Toward You – June 16, 2025

2025/06/16/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

The LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Numbers 6:26

Toward You

Daily Devotion – June 16, 2025

Devotion based on Numbers 6:26

See series: Devotions

According to a 2021 article in Psychology Today, feeling ignored may be more painful than we suppose. Individuals in a study indicated that being ignored often hurt more than even being in an argument.

Then again, perhaps this should not surprise us. To feel ignored, to feel excluded, to feel overlooked, to feel invisible—such a thing brings a quiet devastation. The ache it produces can be so heavy and profound that people may feel like a physical weight is pressing on their shoulders and chest.

And these terrible moments can show up anywhere. They can show up at work, at school, at social gatherings, among friends, or among family. They can even show up at church.

Indeed, you and I can be very good at ignoring each other. Sin does that. In the brokenness of our broken natures, I can ignore others, others can ignore me, and we can all ignore God. Left to ourselves, you and I would end up abandoned, isolated, alone, and in despair.

But your God has not ignored you. Instead, he has turned his face toward you. He saw you in your sin and darkness. He saw you in your self-imposed exile, isolation, and pain. And he chose to do something about it. Jesus came here. He became one of us. On our behalf, he ignored no one as he walked on this earth. In our place, he endured the worst kind of abandonment possible—an abandonment so absolute that his heavenly Father turned away from him as he bore our sins on the cross. And then he died.

And then he rose. And because he has, you will never need to feel ignored again. Ever. For the One who has promised never to leave you nor forsake you is the One who lives. The One who has promised to be with you always is the One who lives. And the One who has risen from the dead is the One who has turned his face toward you. And he will never turn away.

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for turning your face toward me. And thank you for never looking away. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

We Have Peace with God – June 15, 2025

2025/06/15/in Teen Devotions

One key truth: We have peace because the love of the Father has been demonstrated in his Son and poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit.

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God. Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Romans 5:1-5

We Have Peace with God

Can you identify with any of the following?

No matter how hard I try to fit in with the group, my friends still leave me out of activities, and I feel all alone.
I want to be pure and chaste and know that’s what God wants from me, but I still find myself looking at the porn I shouldn’t and the guilt I feel is unbearable.
My future is all up in the air! I feel so much pressure to pick a college and career, but I have no idea what I want to do.
I didn’t study as much as I should have, and my grades have fallen to the point where I can’t possibly get the GPA I need to earn my scholarship.
My parents don’t understand the anxiety I am facing so it’s not even worth trying to talk with them.

Did you relate to these struggles? Perhaps you face different troubles. Whatever difficulties you face, it’s always tempting to wander down the thought path of: “I thought that getting closer to God would mean less problems and suffering, yet it seems I have even more! Where can I go to get the peace I’m so desperately looking for?”

What wonderful words Paul shares with us: “Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” We’re often tempted to search for real peace in the wrong places—like friends, alcohol, drugs, or even winning in sports. But none of those things can give us peace that lasts.

True peace comes from God. He gives us peace by saying that because of Jesus, our sins are completely forgiven.

And even when life gets hard or we’re struggling, that doesn’t mean God has left us. Since God has said we’re not guilty of our sins, we can be sure that he’s always by our side, even during tough times.

The peace God gives isn’t about everything being perfect around us—it’s peace in our hearts. Jesus told us that life would have its problems, but we can still have peace because God is with us.

The stuff we go through on earth won’t last forever. But the peace God gives? That’s forever.

Trusting in God doesn’t mean life will be easy. It means knowing he’s always with you no matter what.

When you’re suffering, it doesn’t mean God is far away. Actually, it means the Holy Spirit is right there with you, giving you strength through his Word so you can keep going.

Whatever challenges come your way, know this: God is with you. He will give you the strength you need, hold you up, and help you through it all.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, in this chaotic world with all of its troubles and difficulties, it is hard for us to find peace. Thank you for bringing us the only peace that lasts—the peace of sins forgiven an the promises of your love. Strengthen us through Word and sacrament to keep our eyes focused on this peace as we face the challenges of life. Comfort us with this peace and remind us that you are with us always, especially when we are asked to go through trial and trouble. We ask this in the name of Jesus, your Son, our Lord. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

It’s Not About Me – June 15, 2025

2025/06/15/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Love . . . is not self-seeking.
1 Corinthians 13:4,5

It’s Not About Me

Daily Devotion – June 15, 2025

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 13:4,5

See series: Devotions

It was not a very long piece on the TV news. I don’t even recall the mother’s name. But what she does and why she is doing it, I will not soon forget.

The news piece is about this disastrous earthquake in Haiti and its aftermath. It centers on a mother and her young children. Their small house is now rubble. The mother does not know what they are going to eat. She does not know what they are going to drink. She does not know where they are going to live. And she finds herself surrounded by thousands of people who are wondering the same thing.

At present she and her children are living in the open, sitting and resting on a blanket. But as she sits with her children, the mother is doing a strange thing. She’s continually smiling and talking cheerfully.

Someone from the news crew finally asks her why she’s smiling so much. Her response is sober and direct. “It’s for my children,” she says.

Footage like that quickly reminds us of what love is. Love is not about me. It’s not about my needs. It’s not about indulging my fears, fulfilling my dreams, or protecting my self-esteem. It’s about others.

The old, sinful self inside me does not like that. It does not like that one bit. Left to my own instincts, my life would be all about me until there was nothing left but me. And ultimately, there I would exist isolated, alone, and in the outer darkness of hell.

But Jesus came. He came for me. He lived a perfect life for me. He suffered and died for my every failure. And now he lives for me. Because of him, my life is different. I am different. My slavery to self is done. And now I can really love because, through Jesus, it’s not about me. It’s about others.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, love is not about me. It’s about others. Forgive my failures. Empower me to love as you have loved me. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

No Riddles – June 14, 2025

2025/06/14/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

The Jews who were there gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
John 10:24-30

No Riddles

Daily Devotion – June 14, 2025

Devotion based on John 10:24-30

See series: Devotions

Riddles can be used to strengthen the way you think. They can also be aggravating if you don’t have the answer. Many of the Jewish people who listened to Jesus saw him as a riddle. They couldn’t figure out if he was the Messiah or not. So finally, they came up to ask him. “If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.” No more mystery. They wanted a straight answer.

Jesus gave them a straight answer. “I did tell you.” He performed miracles in their presence. He revealed who he was as he taught the crowds who followed him. The problem is that many rejected the miracles and the words Jesus spoke to them. They did not believe Jesus as he proclaimed, that he was the Son of God.

Do not become like those who gathered around Jesus. Do not begin to think that Jesus doesn’t give a clear answer about who he is or what he came to do. There is no riddle. Jesus also speaks plainly to you. He is God; he stated, “I and my Father are one.” He came to save you from your sins and give you eternal life. Jesus doesn’t speak in riddles about who he is or what he came to do. He speaks plainly to you, his sheep, so “that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name” (John 20:31).

Listen to the clear words of Jesus. Hold on to them in faith. Look with hope to the eternal life he brings.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I give thanks that you have given me life through Jesus your Son. Continue to preserve my faith until I am with you in heaven. Amen.

Daily Devotions is brought to you by WELS.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc. ™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Don’t Be Scared—Jesus Is Here! – June 13, 2025

2025/06/13/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Listen to Devotion

Read: John 14:23-27

[Jesus replied], “All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:25-27

Don’t Be Scared—Jesus Is Here!

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

Don’t be troubled. Don’t be afraid.

If Jesus were sitting at the table with you right now and he told you, “Don’t be scared,” do you think you would still feel nervous? I don’t think you would be. I think you would see how much Jesus loves you and remember how powerful he is, how he forgives you, and all the promises he’s made to take care of you. You’d say, “You are my Savior, and I know you love me. I don’t have to be scared of anything.”

But there are lots of scary things in our world and in our lives that make us feel afraid. And because we can’t see Jesus with our eyes, we might forget he’s with us and feel like we’re all alone.

Jesus spoke the words in our Bible reading on the night he was going to be betrayed by a friend and arrested. The very next day, he would be put on trial and nailed to a cross. His disciples would see him taken away and would feel very scared. Later, after Jesus rose from the dead, they saw him go up into heaven. And again, when they couldn’t see Jesus anymore, they were tempted to feel afraid.

But Jesus told them—and us—“Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Don’t be afraid.” Even though they wouldn’t see him with their eyes anymore, Jesus promised he would still be with them. He said he would send the Holy Spirit, who would be with them always. The Holy Spirit works through the Bible, teaching us about Jesus, reminding us of all God’s promises, and helping our faith stay strong—even when we’re scared.

Because Jesus sent the Holy Spirit to live in our hearts, we can say with confidence, “I trust you, Jesus. I’m not afraid.”

Prayer:

Jesus, thank you for your promise to send the Holy Spirit to help us when we’re scared. Thank you for teaching us your Word and filling us with your love. Help us share your promises with others when they feel worried or afraid. 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 do you think Jesus would say if you were afraid? How does knowing he loves you help you feel safe?
If we can’t see Jesus with our eyes, how can we still know he’s with us?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Who helps us remember that Jesus loves us and keeps his promises? Have you ever felt comforted by something you heard in church or the Bible? (That’s the Holy Spirit at work!)
Why do you think Jesus says, “Don’t be afraid”? How does remembering Jesus’ love help chase those fears away?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Can you think of a Bible promise that helps you feel brave?
What makes people feel afraid sometimes? In what ways can we ask the Holy Spirit to help us trust God and feel strong inside? (Hint: The Holy Spirit works through Word and sacraments.)

Download Family Devotions

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 3.0 United States License.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide.

Military Devotion – Under the Banner of Blessing – June 13, 2025

2025/06/13/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Watch the Devotion

Based on Numbers 6:24-26

For 250 years generations of soldiers have pledged to defend the Constitution and the people of this nation, sacrificing their safety and lives to preserve peace and liberty. For 250 years men and women have marched under the banner of the United States Army, an institution that was created for defense, order, and national unity during a time of profound uncertainty and looming war. As we reflect on the 250th birthday of the United States Army, we give the Almighty God thanks for their service.

But more than that, we reflect on where true peace and blessing ultimately come from—not the sword of man, but the gracious hand of God.

In Numbers 6, the Lord himself unfurled a banner under which people have marched for 3,500 years—the banner of blessing. In this chapter, the Lord commanded his priests to speak this blessing over the people of Israel: “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26).

This blessing is not just a prayer or wish. The God of free and faithful grace places his name on his people, on you—a divine act of protection, grace, and peace. “So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them” (Numbers 6:27). God’s name carries his presence. God’s name carries all that he has done and promises to do in Christ. God’s name on you means you belong to him.

This banner of blessing is not a generic divine favor. It’s deeply personal and covenantal. The Triune God promises to do this for you: to bless and keep, to shine and be gracious, to turn his face toward you, and to give you peace.

The Lord’s face shines upon you means that he looks on you with favor. When he looks at you, he does not see your sins, your faults and failures. He sees the perfect life of Christ and his innocent death on the cross, for you. The warmest sunlight of salvation shines on your face. Because of that truth, you have peace.

The US Army may help secure national peace, but the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:7). This peace comes not through battle, but through the blood of the Lamb, who reconciled us to God.

Because the Lord’s face shines on you, he will keep you. No matter where you go or what you do, no matter what sorrows you suffer or joys you experience, he will protect you, in life and in death. Because the Lord’s face shines on you, he will be gracious to you. You have a God who will show compassion for you when you are sad, when you struggle with temptation, when you feel weak in your faith. These are the blessings we march under because God puts his name on us.

At the close of the Divine Service, after receiving Christ’s Word and his Holy Supper, we depart under the banner of God’s name. It’s not a banner stitched with stars and stripes, but with the cross and the name of the Triune God. Just as a soldier’s uniform bears the emblem of his or her nation, we bear the name of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, given to us in our baptism, and given to us in this blessing.

As we remember the birthday of the US Army today, we give thanks for those called to defend and to protect in this earthly kingdom. But far greater is the eternal protection offered and given by our Lord, who serves us with eternal blessings in his eternal kingdom. March toward that eternal kingdom under the banner of his blessing.

Prayer:
Lord God, heavenly Father, we thank you for your blessing spoken over us Sunday after Sunday through the mouths of your servants. We thank you for placing your name on us in Holy Baptism and for blessing us every day. Preserve us from every evil, guard us in every trial, and keep us in the peace that is ours in Christ Jesus.

Today we give thanks for those who serve in the United States Army, past and present, and ask you to protect those in harm’s way. Protect them, guide them, and draw all hearts to trust not in princes or powers, but in you alone.

Keep us in that peace, and let your name always be upon us. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Written and recorded by Rev. Paul Horn, WELS National Civilian Chaplain to the Military, San Diego, California.

All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. Note: Scripture reading footnotes are clickable only in the web version.

WELS CENTER FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY

Last Sight

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Enduring Temple

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Read: Luke 8:26-39

Your Story Starts at Home

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The Secret to Immortality

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A New Life. A Holy Life.

Prayer:

Read: 2 Timothy 1:3-10

Want to Suffer?

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Join With Me in Suffering

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Fan the Flame of Faith

Undivided Attention: On the Mission Right Before Us – Week of June 23, 2025

ECME Devotion June 23, 2025

Read: 2 Timothy 1:3-10

Timothy’s Faith Story

Prayer:

Thoughts and Prayers

It’s What We Do!

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Enduring Hardships

Sincere Faith – Women’s Devotion

Watch and Pray

Read: Numbers 6:22-27

He Put His Name on You

Prayer:

Different Hope

To Suffer

Read: Numbers 6:22-27

Absolutely Glowing

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Real Peace

Your Name

Read: Numbers 6:22-27

Bless you!

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Undivided Attention: On the Mystery and Majesty of Our God – Week of June 16, 2025

ECME Devotion June 16, 2025

Toward You

We Have Peace with God

Prayer:

It’s Not About Me

No Riddles

Read: John 14:23-27

Don’t Be Scared—Jesus Is Here!

Prayer:

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