Devotions

You Are God’s Bulletin Board! – May 23, 2025

2025/05/23/in Devotions, Family Devotions

When he was gone, Jesus said, “Now the Son of Man is glorified and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will glorify the Son in himself, and will glorify him at once. “My children, I will be with you only a little longer. You will look for me, and just as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: Where I am going, you cannot come. “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
John 13:31-35

You Are God’s Bulletin Board!

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Family Devotion – May 23, 2025

Devotion based on John 13:31-35

See series: Devotions

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

Have you ever walked down your school hallway and seen a super cool bulletin board?

Mrs. Hill made some of the best ones! When school started, her board showed a giant crayon box that said, “It’s going to be a COLORFUL year!” Then, inside her classroom, every kid had a name tag shaped like a crayon in a different color! Every few weeks, the board changed to match the season, like snowflakes in winter or pumpkins in fall. But here’s the neat part: the hallway bulletin board gave a sneak peek into what was happening inside her classroom.

Guess what? You are like that bulletin board, too! What people see in your words and actions shows what’s in your heart. When Jesus lives in your heart, his love shows up on the outside!

Before Jesus went to the cross, he told his disciples something super important: “Love one another. Just as I have loved you, you should love one another. When you love each other, everyone will know that you follow me” (John 13:34,35).

Jesus wants us to love others the same way he loves us—with kindness, patience, and forgiveness. That’s how people know we’re his followers!

Just like Mrs. Hill’s bulletin boards showed what was happening inside her classroom, your life shows the love Jesus has put in your heart.

So, what’s your bulletin board showing today?

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for loving us so much that you died on the cross and came back to life. Help us show your love in what we say and do. Make our lives like bright, loving bulletin boards that point people to you! Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Why do people wear name tags? What can a name tag tell you about someone?
Do you know when God wrote your name in his book of life? (Hint: It happened at your baptism!)

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What bulletin boards do you have in your classroom? What kinds of things do they show people?
How are YOU like a bulletin board for Jesus? What are some ways your words or actions show others that you love Jesus?

Questions for Middle School and Above

How can people tell that you are a follower of Jesus? Can you think of a time when you showed love or kindness like Jesus does?
How might people know if someone is NOT following Jesus? Have you ever acted in a way that didn’t show Jesus’ love? What could you do differently next time?

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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.

As I Have Loved You – May 23, 2025

2025/05/23/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus said] “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.”
John 13:34

As I Have Loved You

Daily Devotion – May 23, 2025

Devotion based on John 13:34

See series: Devotions

The night before Jesus died, he gathered with his disciples in the upper room. Jesus didn’t fill them with motivational slogans or empty optimism. He didn’t tell them to “go out and change the world.” Instead, with only hours left before his betrayal and death, he gave them a command—not flashy or complicated, but one that would truly change the world: “Love one another.”

The command to love wasn’t new; God had given it through Moses centuries earlier. But the standard was: “As I have loved you.” A love that is sacrificial, unconditional, one-way—a love only Jesus has ever truly shown.

It sounds simple, but it’s anything but easy. Jesus didn’t say, “Love when it’s convenient” or “Love when it’s deserved.” He said, “Love as I have loved you.” It’s a love that reaches down to wash dirty feet, extends bread to betrayers, and stretches out arms on a cross. That’s how Jesus loved us—a love that gives fully, serves humbly, and forgives completely.

And now he calls us to love one another in that same way. But let’s be honest. We don’t naturally want to. It’s easy to love those who love us, to serve when it’s noticed, or to forgive when it feels safe. But what about the people who frustrate us? Disappoint us? Wound us? Jesus still says, “Love them.”

How? By remembering that he loved us first. He loved us when we were unlovable. He gave himself fully when we had nothing to offer. Jesus’ love isn’t just a model—it’s our motivation, our foundation, and our strength. His love forgives our failures to love. His love changes hearts. His love empowers us to love others—not to earn anything from God, but because we already have everything in Christ.

So, what does this mean for you? It means your life matters—not necessarily because you accomplish great things, but because you reflect the love of Jesus. It means you carry a kind of love into the world that can’t be found anywhere else. And it means that when you love, people see their Savior.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, grant that I love others not as they deserve, but 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.

The Greatest of These Is Love – May 22, 2025

2025/05/22/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love.
1 Corinthians 13:13

The Greatest of These Is Love

Daily Devotion – May 22, 2025

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 13:13

See series: Devotions

Why is love the greatest? After all, faith connects us to Christ and secures our salvation. Hope anchors us in God’s promises and gives us strength to endure. But love—love is the goal.

Faith and hope are essential in this life, but they are temporary. In heaven, we won’t need faith in what we cannot see because we will see Jesus face to face. We won’t need hope for what is yet to come because we will be living in the fulfillment of every promise. But love—love will remain. Love will be perfected.

Love is the greatest because it is the fruit of faith. Faith draws us into union with Christ, but love is the visible result. Just as fruit shows that a tree is alive and well, love shows that faith is active. We weren’t created just to believe—we were created to love. God’s intent from the beginning was that we would reflect his love in perfect relationship with him and with one another. Sin shattered that design, but in Christ, love has returned—now in part and perfectly in heaven.

Love is also the greatest because it reflects God himself. The Bible never says, “God is faith” or “God is hope.” But it does say, “God is love” (1 John 4:8). To live in love is to live in God, and to reflect God is to love others as he has loved us. Jesus’ love took him from heaven to a cross—for you. That same love now lives in you.

Love serves the neighbor. Love imitates Christ. And one day, when faith has become sight and hope has become reality, love will remain. Forever.

Prayer:
Lord God, thank you for the great love that you have shown me in Christ Jesus. 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.

From Clanging Cymbals to Beautiful Music – May 21, 2025

2025/05/21/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
1 Corinthians 13:1-8 (select verses)

From Clanging Cymbals to Beautiful Music

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Family Devotion – May 21, 2025

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 (select verses)

See series: Devotions

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

At the 2025 WELS National Band Fest, the concert ended with an awesome piece of music called “Foundations.” It was based on the hymn “The Church’s One Foundation.” Before the music started, the band director told the audience, “Listen carefully to the percussion at the beginning—it sets the beat for the whole song!”

To the untrained ear, the opening measures sounded like someone clapping two wooden blocks together. Clap. Clap. Clap. It didn’t sound very exciting at first. But then the flutes joined in, then the trumpets and trombones—and the music grew louder and more beautiful. By the end, the music was huge and amazing!

This is kind of like what the Bible says in 1 Corinthians chapter 13. If we don’t have love, we’re just like that lonely percussion—clap, clap, clap—without a melody. Even if we do good things like give toys to kids, feed the hungry, or help others, if we don’t do it with the love of Jesus in our hearts, it’s just noise.

But when we do have Jesus’ love, our lives become a beautiful song! The Bible tells us what that kind of love sounds like:
• “Love is patient. Love is kind.” (That’s like flutes.)
• “It doesn’t brag or get jealous.” (Here come the clarinets!)
• “Love doesn’t get angry easily. It forgives.” (Here come the horns!)
• “Love always protects, trusts, hopes, and keeps going.”
• And then the big finish: “Love never fails!”

Why? Because Jesus never fails.

Closing Prayer:

Dear heavenly composer, thank you for writing the music of our lives. Help us show your love in everything we do. Thank you for sending Jesus, who makes our lives beautiful—and gives us the promise of heaven. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Who do you love?
How do you show love to that person?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

In the Bible, Paul talks about what love isn’t. Can you think of the eight things love does NOT do? (Example: “Love does NOT envy . . .”)
Which one (of the eight things) do you find hardest to do? Explain why.

Questions for Middle School and Above

Name someone in your life who shows the kind of love we talked about today.
Of all the ways love was described today, which one is your favorite? Why does it matter to you?

Download and print devotion

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.

Love Never Fails – May 21, 2025

2025/05/21/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.
1 Corinthians 13:8

Love Never Fails

Daily Devotion – May 21, 2025

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 13:8

See series: Devotions

We’ve all seen love fail. Marriages end. Friendships break. Families fall apart. Promises are broken. Hearts hurt.

So, when the Bible says, “Love never fails,” it might sound more like a wish than a truth. But it is true—because it’s not talking about the kind of love the world knows. It’s talking about God’s love.

Our love fails. Often. We lose patience. We say unkind things. We keep records of wrongs. We assume the worst and give up too easily. We gossip instead of protecting. We withhold forgiveness. Even when we try to love well, our sinful nature gets in the way.

But Christ’s love? That love never fails. It never gives up, never gives in, never runs dry. Jesus’ love took him from heaven’s glory to a manger in Bethlehem. His love drove him to the cross, where he bore every failure of our lovelessness. And his resurrection proves that his love never fails.

This perfect love is now yours. When God looks at you, he sees the flawless love of Christ. Patience. Kindness. Forgiveness. Endurance. It’s all credited to you by faith. Christ’s love has washed away your sins and given you a new identity as a child of God, clothed in righteousness.

Other spiritual gifts will fade away. But this love never ends, not even in heaven. How could it? Love is the essence of heaven because love is the essence of God. “God is love” (1 John 4:7). This means that one day, you will see this unfailing love face to face and then be able to love perfectly.

Until that day, you live in a world where you will see love fail. You can, however, know Christ’s unfailing love more and more. The more time you spend with him and his Word, the more like him you will become. His love is the source of your forgiveness and the power that makes your love more like his. Everything else fades, but love endures forever. So, live in the love that never fails.

Prayer:
Lord, grant that I may live in your unfailing love all the days of my life. 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.

Love For Every Day – May 20, 2025

2025/05/20/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:4-7

Love For Every Day

Daily Devotion – May 20, 2025

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 13:4-7

See series: Devotions

If you’ve ever been to a Christian wedding, chances are you heard these words read aloud. How could they not be? They paint a portrait of love that’s perfect for a day filled with vows, flowers, and sentiment.

Yet the more you reflect on these words, the more you might think: Maybe this isn’t the best reading for a wedding. The kind of love described here is not romantic. It’s more of an action than an emotion.

This is the kind of love God calls us to—not just on our wedding day, but every day. Love the people around you even when feelings fade, tempers flare, and disappointment creeps in. It’s love that refuses to boast, that keeps no record of wrongs, and that always puts others first. This is a tall order. This kind of love isn’t natural. In fact, it’s impossible—at least for us.

But not for Jesus. Jesus lived every word of this passage to perfection. He was endlessly patient, even with slow-learning disciples. He was unfailingly kind to outcasts and perfectly forgiving to his enemies. On the cross, he bore the record of your wrongs and endured the punishment that you deserved. His love never failed.

This is the love that saved you. And this is the love that now lives in you. In Christ, your record of lovelessness has been erased. Through faith in him, God doesn’t see your envy, selfishness, or irritability—but Christ’s perfect patience, kindness, and endurance. And by his Spirit, he enables you to reflect that same love to others.

The love described in this passage is more than just beautiful words for a wedding day; it’s a daily calling. When your patience wears thin, and his forgiveness feels far away, lean into the love of Christ. With him, you have what you need to love others.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to love others the way 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.

His Loving Legacy – Week of May 19, 2025

2025/05/19/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

His Loving Legacy – Week of May 19, 2025

When he was gone, Jesus said “Now the Son of Man is glorified and God is glorified in him. If God is glorified in him, God will glorify the Son in himself, and will glorify him at once. A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

John 13:31-32,34-35

ECME Devotion May 19, 2025

See series: ECME Devotions

If you knew that your time on earth was nearly over, what would you do? Who would you see and what would you say to them? You would likely spend much of your remaining time with friends and family, talking about good experiences of the past and telling them that you love them. If you have children, you would likely fill your last days making happy memories and inserting words of wisdom that you hope that they will remember later.

Jesus DID know when his days on earth were ending. Because Jesus is God, he knew that he was about to finish the mission that he was sent to earth for—suffering and dying on the cross for us. He spent his last few days with the disciples, his dear friends, and his last words to them are meant for us as well. He commanded them, and us, to “love one another”. We might say that this was his “parting legacy”. He wanted us to remember to love, forgive, and teach others to do the same.

Jesus was born and raised in the same world that we live in, and he experienced the same hurt and temptations that we do. He knows that sin makes it hard to love each other. He knows that we have to daily fight against jealousy, envy, pride, and lack of empathy. Yet he still gives us this command, to love each other. In fact, he says that this love we share is how others will know that we are his followers. By showing love to each other, we are a light to the world, reflecting the love of Jesus.

Jesus does not just tell us to do something without giving us the tools to achieve it. He knows that we will need to daily fight off our own selfishness to show love, and he gives us his Word, the Bible, as a “sword” in this fight. When we daily read the Bible, we learn more about God’s love for us and are strengthened to live as his child.
So, as we remember the life of Jesus during this Easter season, let us remember that he lived a life of love perfectly for us. Let us stay close to him by going to church with believers and studying his Word. Let us love one another, remembering that he first loved us (1 John 4:19).

Prayer:
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for coming down to earth, living and dying for us. Keep us close to you and daily in your Word, that we may share the love that you poured out on us with others. Amen.

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.

Be Our Guest! – May 19, 2025

2025/05/19/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Acts 11:1-18

Starting from the beginning, Peter told them the whole story: “I was in the city of Joppa praying, and in a trance I saw a vision. I saw something like a large sheet being let down from heaven by its four corners, and it came down to where I was. I looked into it and saw four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, reptiles and birds. Then I heard a voice telling me, ‘Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.’ “I replied, ‘Surely not, Lord! Nothing impure or unclean has ever entered my mouth.’ “The voice spoke from heaven a second time, ‘Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.’’ . . . So if God gave them the same gift he gave us who believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, who was I to think that I could stand in God’s way?” When they heard this, they had no further objections and praised God, saying, “So then, even to Gentiles God has granted repentance that leads to life.”
Acts 11:4-18 (select verses)

Be Our Guest!

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Family Devotion – May 19, 2025

Devotion based on Acts 11:4-18 (select verses)

See series: Devotions

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

Have you ever seen Beauty and the Beast? There’s a fun scene where Belle sneaks downstairs at night because she’s super hungry. Instead of treating her like a prisoner, all the enchanted furniture welcomes her with a fancy dinner! They roll out a huge white tablecloth, pile on yummy food—beef stew, cheesy treats, flaming desserts—and sing, “Be our guest!” They want her to feel special.

A long time ago, Peter, one of Jesus’ followers, had a super strange dream. In the dream, a big white sheet came down from heaven. On it were animals—big ones, creepy ones, flying ones. Then Peter heard a voice say, “Get up, Peter. Kill and eat.” Peter was shocked! “I can’t eat those! Jewish people don’t eat those animals!” But then the voice said, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean.”

God was showing Peter something amazing: Jesus didn’t just come for one group of people. He came for everyone. Jesus’ love is for the whole world—no matter where you’re from or what you’ve done.

It’s like God rolled out a big tablecloth, filled it with something way better than beef stew and pie, and said, “You’re my guest. Come sit at my table. You belong here because of Jesus.”

Jesus died on the cross and rose again to wash away all our sins—even the really messy, ugly ones. Because of him, we’re not prisoners to sin anymore—we’re invited guests at God’s heavenly banquet!

And guess what? The guest list is HUGE. Everyone is welcome. Even people who weren’t part of God’s family before. That means you. That means me. That means everyone!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for taking away the old rules and making a place for us at your table. Thank you for loving us and inviting us to the party in heaven. Help us tell others that they’re invited 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

What are some of our favorite foods to eat for dinner? Do you think someone from the Old Testament could eat those foods, or were they on God’s “do not eat” list back then?
Why is it okay for us to eat things like hamburgers or bacon today, even though people in the Bible couldn’t?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

In the Bible story, why were some people upset with Peter when he visited other people in Judea?
Have you ever been told you were doing something wrong when you were just trying to be kind or include someone? How does it help to remember that God wants everyone to be part of his family?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What strange and surprising thing did Peter see in his dream from God?
Why doesn’t God usually use dreams or visions to speak to people today? How does God help us know what to do instead?

Download and print devotion

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.

With Christ’s Love, You Gain Everything – May 19, 2025

2025/05/19/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
1 Corinthians 13:1-3

With Christ’s Love, You Gain Everything

Daily Devotion – May 19, 2025

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 13:1-3

See series: Devotions

It’s easy to measure success by what you’ve accomplished. You graduate at the top of your class. You land the most prestigious job. You marry someone everyone admires and raise kids who win every award. But as today’s Bible passage reminds us, even the most impressive achievements are meaningless without love.

These three verses strip away all the impressive outward works that can fill a Christian’s life: eloquent speech, prophetic insight, unwavering faith, and sacrificial giving. These good things could fool you into thinking you’re doing something meaningful in God’s kingdom, but if they are done without love, they amount to nothing.

That stings because it reminds us of how easily our motivation becomes misguided. We may teach, give, serve, or sacrifice—but is it out of love for others? Or is it sometimes driven by a desire for recognition, a need to prove ourselves, or a hope to win approval? If you’re chasing success or approval from people, you gain nothing from God.

The kind of love God calls us to doesn’t measure success by what serves ourselves but by what selflessly serves others. It’s a reflection of the love Christ has shown us: selfless, sacrificial, perfect.

Jesus lived this love perfectly for you. He didn’t serve to gain glory but to give grace. He didn’t sacrifice himself to impress you but to save you. He loved you without expecting anything in return and then gave you everything: forgiveness of sins and eternal life. That’s the love that covers you now, empowering you to reflect that love in your life.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to live not for recognition from others, but to show them the selfless love you’ve shown me in Christ. 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.

Transformed – teen devotion – May 18, 2025

2025/05/18/in Teen Devotions

One key truth: True gold is loving like Jesus loves us.

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
Love never fails.
1 Corinthians 13:4-8

Gold Medal Love

Did you catch the Olympics this summer? If you were glued to the TV like I was, you saw something super cool—during the opening ceremonies in Paris, each country showed off their flag… not just by walking in a stadium, but by sailing down the Seine River on boats!

Some boats were full of famous athletes. Others were shared between smaller countries—even ones that don’t normally get along. Imagine that: countries with a beef against each other, floating side by side, waving to the crowd.

In the closing ceremony, the president of the Olympics, Thomas Bach, said something powerful: “You lived peacefully together. You respected each other—even when your countries are divided by war. You created a culture of peace. You inspired the world.”

Sound familiar? It should. That kind of love—the kind that looks past differences and puts others first—is straight out of the Bible.

The apostle Paul talked about this kind of love. Not the “I love pizza” kind. But real, selfless, “you-first” love. The kind Jesus showed. Paul even lists what love is and isn’t in the Bible—it’s why those verses get read at weddings all the time.

During the final song of the Olympics, a French singer performed John Lennon’s “Imagine.” It talks about dreaming of a world without hate, where people choose love instead.

But here’s the thing—God doesn’t want us to just imagine that kind of world. He calls us to live it.

So don’t just kind of try to love others. Go all in. Wave that Christian flag high as you sail into your week—and love like Jesus did.

Prayer:
God, thank you for loving me so much you died for me. Help me love others the same way—with courage, kindness, and a heart like yours. 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.

Everyday Love – May 18, 2025

2025/05/18/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Love] always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.
1 Corinthians 13:7

Everyday Love

Daily Devotion – May 18, 2025

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 13:7

See series: Devotions

If you walk through the doors of the Truman Library in Independence, Missouri, you can view artifacts and documents from some of the most consequential years in the 20th Century. In room after room, on shelf after shelf, you can research the end of World War II, the beginning of the Cold War, the rebuilding of Europe, the Korean War, and everything in between.

Somewhere in that library, you also will find a collection of over 1,300 letters. These letters, however, have little to do with historical events of the 20th Century. They are, nevertheless, something extraordinary. You see, President Truman made it a point to write a letter to his wife, Bess, every day they were apart for any reason.

Many of the letters are simple updates on minor things. Others, of course, do mention world leaders. But it’s the sheer number of letters that makes the real impact. To see those letters all together is to see the evidence of one man’s steady, faithful love for his wife.

God’s love for you is often not in the big and the dramatic. Very often his love for you is in the routine of life. He’s the One who sees to it that you get something to eat, have a place to sleep, and something to wear. He’s the One who sees to it that you receive an encouraging word when you need it. Most of all, he’s the One who sees to it that his forgiveness of your sin is fresh and new for you every day. Your face was on his heart when he sent his Son to the cross for your sins and raised him from the dead.

Through faith in Jesus, that’s the love God has for you. It’s a love that is at work in your life every single day.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, forgive me for all the times I have overlooked how your love for me is at work in my life. Wash me clean in Jesus’ blood. Move me by your Spirit to see the reality of your love every single day. 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.

Sing the Song of the Saints – May 17, 2025

2025/05/17/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

After this I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb. . . . And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” . . . Then one of the elders asked me, “These in white robes—who are they, and where did they come from?” I answered, “Sir, you know.” And he said, “These are they who have come out of the great tribulation; . . . Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat upon them, nor any scorching heat. . . . And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.”
Revelation 7:9-17 (selected verses)

Sing the Song of the Saints

Daily Devotion – May 17, 2025

Devotion based on Revelation 7:9-17 (selected verses)

See series: Devotions

One of the most requested songs at funerals is Frank Sinatra’s, “My Way.” It is the deceased person’s way of saying they lived the way they wanted with no one telling them what to do.

Is that your song? Or does your song echo that of the saints in heaven? In the apostle John’s vision he heard them singing, “Salvation belongs to our God, … and to the Lamb.” Followers of Christ don’t boast in themselves. They boast in their Savior-God. Jesus is the only thing that matters in this life. Only he has provided deliverance from sin, all fears, and a hopeless future.

And who benefits? A select few? No! John saw, “A great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people, and language.”

It’s not easy to sing the song of the saints. It’s easy to lose heart in this wicked world. The saints in heaven know it. They are those “who have come out of the great tribulation.” But what do those saints have to say to us? “Hang in there!”

How? Don’t rely on yourself. Trust in him who is truly wise and powerful. God gives you the strength to handle whatever you’re suffering.

Just remember that your suffering doesn’t begin to compare to what’s waiting for you in heaven. From tribulation to triumph. Hang in there. Heaven is worth it!

Prayer:
Give me strength, Lord, when life gets hard. Keep me focused on the glory you have waiting for me in heaven together with all your saints. 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 Good Shepherd’s Voice – May 16, 2025

2025/05/16/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 10:22-30

[Jesus said] “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.”
John 10:27,28

Your Good Shepherd’s Voice

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Family Devotion – May 16, 2025

Devotion based on John 10:27,28

See series: Devotions

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

Have your mom or dad ever promised to take you somewhere fun—like the zoo, a movie, or out for ice cream? Did you believe them? Hopefully, you did! But why? Why do you trust that your mom or dad will do what they say?

You might say, “Because they love me,” or “Because they’ve taken me places before.” And that’s a great reason! If someone keeps their promises again and again, it’s easy to trust them the next time, right?

That’s kind of how it works with Jesus, but even better! Jesus always keeps his promises—every single one. Sometimes, it might feel like his promises are taking a long time. Or maybe they don’t happen exactly how we thought they would. But Jesus never forgets. He always does what he says.

That’s why it’s important to listen to Jesus’ voice—your Good Shepherd’s voice. But how do you hear his voice?

You hear Jesus’ voice when you read the Bible. You hear him when you do devotions at home with your family. You hear him when you sing songs and listen during church. Every time you learn about Jesus, you’re learning to recognize his voice more and more.

And when life gets scary or confusing—and it will sometimes—you’ll know which voice to listen to: your Good Shepherd’s.

In today’s Bible verse, Jesus makes an awesome promise. He says that he gives his sheep (that’s you!) eternal life, and no one can ever pull them out of his hand. You belong to him. You are safe. Forever.

So, until the day you get to meet your Good Shepherd face-to-face in heaven, keep listening to his voice. Trust his promises. And tell other people how great it is to have a Shepherd like Jesus who loves you so much!

Closing Prayer:

Thank you for being my Good Shepherd and making me one of your sheep. Help me listen to your voice more and more every day. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

What’s a promise from your mom or dad that they kept?
Who is our Good Shepherd?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Your parents try to keep their promises, but sometimes they can’t. Why can we always trust Jesus to keep his promises?
What is one promise Jesus made that makes you really happy?

Questions for Middle School and Above

How does Jesus know that you belong to him, like one of his sheep?
Jesus says no one can pull his sheep away from him. So why do some people still stop believing in him?

Download and print devotion

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.

No More Tears – May 16, 2025

2025/05/16/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’
Revelation 7:17

No More Tears

Daily Devotion – May 16, 2025

Devotion based on Revelation 7:17

See series: Devotions

When was the last time you cried? Our tears can flow for so many different reasons. Perhaps the pain of serious injury was so overwhelming that you could not help but cry. It could be that the recent loss of a loved friend or family member has left you in such a state that the tears seem to pour out at the smallest of memories. Maybe a broken relationship has left you crying tears of loneliness. And sometimes, we cry for no apparent reason at all. There is a reason why life in this world is often referred to as a ‘vale of tears.’ So many things can cause the tears to flow, and we all realize that it is only a matter of time until they flow again.

What if there were a place where you would never cry again? A place with no sorrow or sadness, no loneliness or fear. A place where people cannot and do not cry at all. A place of only joy and peace. Would you be pleased to know that such a place does exist? It is true. It is a place called heaven, and it is the most wonderful place you could ever imagine. There will be no more cause for tears. And right now, even as you read this devotion, Jesus is preparing a place there for all who believe in him.

You see, Jesus knew what it was like to live in this world. He, too, felt the pain of loss. He also shed tears at the death of a close friend. Not only can he sympathize when we feel such pain and sorrow, but he also has the power to bring such tears to an end. So that you and I could live forever in a tear-free place, Jesus came to this earth to live and die as our substitute. His death on the cross paid for our sins, and his resurrection from the grave has conquered death for us. Through faith in him, we are no longer destined for eternal pain and sorrow but are on the way to heaven, where we will live with him in eternal joy.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for preparing such a wonderful heaven for us. I can’t wait to join you there. 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.

The Biggest Crowd – May 15, 2025

2025/05/15/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

After this I looked, and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were wearing white robes and were holding palm branches in their hands. And they cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.”
Revelation 7:9,10

The Biggest Crowd

Daily Devotion – May 15, 2025

Devotion based on Revelation 7:9,10

See series: Devotions

On February 9, 2025 over 65,000 people gathered to watch Super Bowl 59. Can you imagine being in the same building with that many people? What a huge crowd! Such large crowds can be exciting. A stadium full of people all cheering and chanting together can be an exhilarating experience. The noise level can be deafening. For many, being in such a crowd is the experience of a lifetime.

No earthly crowd can match the crowd in heaven. Far more than 65,000, the mass of people in heaven will be beyond counting. And it is a crowd that will not be limited to one group of people. Rather, people from all over will come together to worship the Lord who has saved them. And this crowd of people in heaven will have their own cheer to shout: “Salvation belongs to our God, who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb.” The group of believers in heaven will worship Jesus, who has saved them from sin, death, and hell. They will rejoice and celebrate his gift of salvation for all eternity. This crowd will never disperse and go home. This crowd will never worry about whether they are on the winning side. Thanks to Jesus and his life, death, and resurrection, the victory is ours!

The main purpose of life here is to make sure to be in that crowd when the Last Day comes. Entry will not be granted through an electronic ticket on your phone, nor can one sneak in through the gate. Faith in Jesus alone provides our entrance into heaven to join the crowd of believers praising God for all eternity. Believe in your Savior, Jesus, who died for you.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, you have saved the world from sin and will one day gather the crowd of believers to go to heaven with you. Keep me in faith and help me be ready for that day. 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 More Tears Ever Again – May 14, 2025

2025/05/14/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Revelation 7:9-17

“They are before the throne of God and serve him day and night in his temple; and he who sits on the throne will shelter them with his presence. ‘Never again will they hunger; never again will they thirst. The sun will not beat down on them,’ nor any scorching heat. For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; ‘he will lead them to springs of living water.’ ‘And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes.’”
Revelation 7:15-17

No More Tears Ever Again

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – May 14, 2025

Devotion based on Revelation 7:15-17

See series: Devotions

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

Beth started crying. It really wasn’t that big of a deal—her brother teased her a lot—but today, that tiny tease was just too much. She had woken up late, left her lunch at home, forgot her math homework, and even tripped while playing basketball in gym class. It had been a really bad day, and Beth felt like she just couldn’t take one more thing going wrong.

But thankfully, Beth had someone she could go to for comfort. No matter how rough the day was, Beth knew her mom would be there. Her mom gave her a big hug, handed her a tissue, and told her that tomorrow would probably be way better.

It feels so good to have someone who helps you feel better when you’re sad. Your mom or dad, grandma or grandpa, aunt or uncle, or big brother or sister—they’re special because they care about you and try to help when you’re hurting. But here’s the thing: they’re not perfect. They can’t stop every bad thing from happening. Because we live in a world full of sin, there will still be times when you get hurt, feel sad, or even cry.

That’s why the picture from today’s Bible reading is so amazing. In the book of Revelation, John gets a special peek into heaven. What he sees is a huge crowd—so many people he couldn’t even count them all! They’re standing in front of God’s throne, worshiping him.

John asks who they are, and he gets a beautiful answer. These are the people who went through hard times on earth because they trusted in God. But now? They’re safe. They’re happy. They’re with Jesus. They’ll never be hungry or thirsty again. They won’t get sunburned or tired. Jesus will be their shepherd, leading them to fresh, cool water. And best of all? God will wipe away every single tear from their eyes.

One day, you will be there too. One day, you’ll get to stand in heaven with all of God’s people, and nothing bad will ever happen again. No more pain. No more crying. Just perfect joy with Jesus!

Until that day, it’s okay to cry sometimes and go to someone you love for comfort. But remember, you can always go to God, too! He loves you so much—and one day, he’ll wipe away every one of your tears for good.

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, sometimes the world feels really hard. Thank you for the promise of heaven, where everything will be perfect and happy. Help me to always remember that you love me and are with me, even on my worst days. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Who do you like to talk to when you’re feeling sad or having a rough day?
Why can’t that person always make everything better or stop all the bad stuff?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why do we still have bad days, even when we love Jesus?
What do you think it means when it says God will “shelter them with his presence”?

Questions for Middle School and Above

How could you help a younger kid feel better when they’re sad or upset?
What’s the BEST part you imagine about being with Jesus in heaven someday?

Download and print devotion

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.

Safe in His Hands – May 14, 2025

2025/05/14/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus said] “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 10:28-30

Safe in His Hands

Daily Devotion – May 14, 2025

Devotion based on John 10:28-30

See series: Devotions

Action movies often portray the hero leaning over the edge of a cliff or hanging over the side of a helicopter, and in their grip is the hand of a friend or family member. The suspense builds as the person hangs just moments away from a certain death. Explosions threaten to break the hold. The person’s grip starts to weaken, and one hand slowly slides out of the other. The audience holds their collective breath as they wait to see whether the hero will save the other person or whether they will plunge to their death on the rocks below.

Do you ever feel like that person hanging on for dear life as you go through life? Do you ever feel like maybe one slip, and it will all come crashing down? So many things in this world threaten to pull us down forever—greed, lies, immorality, depression, addiction, and debt. So many sins and their consequences can threaten daily. We try to hold on tighter, but we need to realize that there is only one who has a strong enough grip to keep us safe and secure forever.

His name is Jesus. He is the only one who successfully made it through this life without sin. He is the only one who died to set us free from sin. He is the only one who can get us safely home to heaven. So, make sure that the hand you are tightly hanging onto is his. There is nothing stronger in this world than him, and he will never tire of hanging on to you. He will not let you go. Hang onto him in faith and trust his promises. No one and nothing can snatch you out of his hand.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, hang onto me today as I strive to live for you. Keep me safe. Never let me go. 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.

So Many Voices – May 13, 2025

2025/05/13/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus said] “My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.”
John 10:27

So Many Voices

Daily Devotion – May 13, 2025

Devotion based on John 10:27

See series: Devotions

Maybe it’s just me, but sometimes I want to take my smartphone and throw it in the lake or run over it with my truck. Wouldn’t that be nice? How refreshing it would be to get rid of all the pings, vibrations, and chirps that come from our devices every time we get a text, an email, or a like on one of our posts. How wonderful it would be to talk to someone without them checking their smartwatch every time a message comes in. How amazing it would be in a moment of free time to not automatically reach for the phone and start mindlessly scrolling.

But we can’t do it, can we? There are so many voices that demand our time and attention. So many people with things to text and say and post. So many influencers who want a moment of our time. So many talking heads who demand that we hear all about their take on politics or events of the day. And is it also possible that we are desperately afraid that we will miss something important?

In such a world as ours, it can be so easy to lose track of the one voice we ought to be listening to. There is only one voice of truth in this world. In a world of salesmen, influencers, and political pundits, there is only one voice that speaks the truth about getting from this world to the next. In a world that claims to be spiritual but not religious; in a world that argues for no absolute truth; there is one voice who claims to be, “the way, the truth and the life.” And it is the voice of the one who died for you. Jesus died on the cross to pay for every one of your sins and rose from the dead to guarantee that through faith in him, you will also one day rise to eternal life in heaven. His voice is different from all the rest, and it is a voice that wants to lead you home.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, in a world full of voices, help me to listen to yours. Enable me to follow you all the way to 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.

Jesus is Trustworthy – Week of May 12, 2025

2025/05/12/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Jesus is Trustworthy – Week of May 12, 2025

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 10:27-30

ECME Devotion May 12, 2025

See series: ECME Devotions

To make the sign for “trust” in American Sign Language, hold your two hands, palms up, fingers curled and stacked at an angle as if you are firmly gripping a tug-of-war rope. This sign for trust creates a picture of someone that is not letting go, under any circumstance.

This is the trust that God wants us to have for him. We can trust that no one, under any circumstance, can snatch us from his hand. But sometimes, instead of trusting in the one that can recue us from everything, we put our trust into something else. We put our trust into ourselves or things of this world, thinking that in these things holds the answers to all of our problems.

When we look inside ourselves for answers, we easily fall into sin. But sins are filled with false promises. Every temptation whispers, “Come here. This is better for you.” But it’s a lie. You hear the lie, “Drink more wine, you’ll feel better.” But when you do drink, you feel worse. Another whisper: “Gossip about your coworker. It’s just venting.” But all you feel is momentary power, then jealousy, and you hurt a friend in the process. Another whisper: “One little lie won’t hurt.” But afterwards you feel embarrassed as you try to get out of it. With every sin, every time you give in to the lie, you feel empty, fake, and cowardly. Every temptation is an empty promise that you will fix something or feel better, and giving in to those temptations only makes you feel worse.

Everything in this world is filled with empty promises. Even our fellow believers will fail us at times. So instead of following the empty promises of this world, we look to Jesus, our Shepherd, who only wants good things for us. What separates Jesus from everything else in this world is that he was willing to die for us. His promises aren’t empty. Jesus is trustworthy and true, and everything that he promises has come true.

What does Jesus promise? He promises to care for us, as a shepherd cares for his sheep. His love never fails, never waivers. He promises to forgive us, every day. His mercies are new every morning (Lamentations 3:23). He promises that, through his death and coming back to life on Easter, we will live with him forever in heaven. With his words of comfort bring security. He will supply our every need here on earth and has supplied our greatest need, a Savior from sin and life in heaven.

Prayer:
I am trusting you, Lord Jesus, trusting only you
Trusting you for full salvation, free and true.
I am trusting you to guide me; you alone shall lead,
Every day and hour supplying all my need.

Christian Worship 21 816:1,4

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.

God’s Home Run Promise – May 12, 2025

2025/05/12/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Acts 13:15,16,26-39

“We tell you the good news: What God promised our ancestors he has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus.”
Acts 13:32,33

God’s Home Run Promise

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – May 12, 2025

Devotion based on Acts 13:32,33

See series: Devotions

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

Have you ever heard of Babe Ruth? He was one of the most famous baseball players ever—and he played about 100 years ago! He was super good at hitting home runs—714 in total! That’s a lot of baseballs flying out of the park.

But Babe Ruth’s most famous home run wasn’t his biggest or his last. It was one he hit in the 1932 World Series. Why? Because people say he “called his shot.” That means, before the pitcher threw the ball, Babe Ruth pointed to the outfield—and then hit the ball exactly there for a home run! Fans were amazed. He said he was going to do something—and then did it.

In today’s Bible verse, the apostle Paul talks about someone even better at “calling his shot”—God! Paul was talking to people in a synagogue (that’s like church), and he reminded them of all the awesome things God had done: rescuing his people from Egypt, leading them to the Promised Land, giving them kings like David. The people listening knew those stories really well.

But Paul had a bigger reason for reminding them. He was showing them that God had been making a BIG promise since way back in the Old Testament—a promise to send a Savior. It took a long time, but God always keeps his promises. And finally, he did it! God sent Jesus, just like he said he would.

That’s even cooler than calling a home run!

And guess what? If God kept that huge promise, you can be 100% sure he’ll keep the rest of his promises too. When you’re scared, worried, or sad, remember what God has promised you. He promises to always be with you. He promises to help you. He promises to forgive you. And he promises to bring you to heaven.

God doesn’t just say stuff. He keeps his promises. Every time.

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for keeping your promise to send Jesus. Help me trust all your other promises, 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

Why was Babe Ruth’s home run so famous?
What did God promise to do for his people in the Bible?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

How do we know we can trust God to keep his promises?
Can you name one promise God makes to you in the Bible?

Questions for Middle School and Above

When you feel afraid or sad, how can thinking about God’s promises help you feel better?
What is one promise from God that you really like or think about a lot? Why?

Download and print devotion

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.

Free From Sin – May 12, 2025

2025/05/12/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

“Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Through him everyone who believes is set free from every sin, a justification you were not able to obtain under the law of Moses.”
Acts 13:38,39

Free From Sin

Daily Devotion – May 12, 2025

Devotion based on Acts 13:38,39

See series: Devotions

At the time of this writing, large snowflakes are falling quickly past my window. The biggest snow of the year so far has been predicted for today. Some area schools have been called off and some have not. Even now as an adult, I admit to wishing we had a snow day.

Do you remember how fun snow days were? For many students that was always the best day of the year. Having a snow day meant we were set free: free from sitting in class and taking notes, free from homework, and free from rules. We were free to sleep in, build a snow fort, or play video games all day long. The only negative about the snow day is that it would come to an end and the next day meant being back in captivity.

We were all at one point subject to a far worse captivity than school. The Bible teaches that each of us entered this world with an inherited sinful nature. In fact, we were slaves to that nature. As a result, we often do the things we know we shouldn’t do. We also fail to do the things we know we should do. And then our conscience kicks in and we are riddled with guilt and shame and that sinking feeling that nothing we do is ever going to be good enough to make up for all that sin.

Thankfully, in Jesus, we have been “set free from every sin.” Even better than a snow day, through faith in Jesus, we have been given the gift of eternal life in heaven. Through his life, death, and resurrection, Jesus has set us free from sin and guilt and the need to earn our salvation. We are his forgiven children and are now free to serve him in our lives out of thankfulness for all he has done for us.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for setting me free from sin. Help me to use this wonderful freedom to serve you in my life. 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.

Transformed – teen devotion – May 11, 2025

2025/05/11/in Teen Devotions

One key truth: Not just talk—Jesus walked the walk.

Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon’s Colonnade. 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 10:22-30

Say What You Mean. Do What You Say.

Let’s be real—everyone has a few pet peeves. Maybe yours is when someone chews gum with their mouth wide open. Or when you’re riding in the car with just one other person, and instead of talking, they’re glued to their phone playing Candy Crush.

But here’s one that hits harder: people who say one thing… and do the total opposite. You know, that friend who promises they’ll pick you up—but they’re so late you end up texting them, only to hear some random excuse. And this isn’t just a one-time thing. They’ve done it so much that now, you don’t really believe anything they say.

Their words don’t match their actions—and that’s frustrating.

But check this out: in the Bible, Jesus says he’s not just any shepherd—he’s the Good Shepherd. And here’s the difference: Jesus doesn’t just say he cares. He actually shows it. He gave up his life for us. He’s not some random guy doing a job and peacing out when things get hard. He sticks with us, always.

People will let you down—friends, parents, siblings, even people you trust. But Jesus? He never will. He is the way, the truth, and the life. Everything he says is 100% real. And the proof? The cross. That’s how far he went to show how much you mean to him.

So as you head into this week—whatever’s coming, good or bad—remember this: Jesus is with you, and he’s already shown you just how much he loves you. Just picture his arms stretched out on the cross—that’s how wide and deep his love is.

Prayer:
Jesus, help me not just to hear your words, but to believe them—and live them out every day. 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.

No Riddles – May 11, 2025

2025/05/11/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon’s Colonnade. 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 10:22-30

No Riddles

Daily Devotion – May 11, 2025

Devotion based on John 10:22-30

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 people who listened to Jesus saw him as a riddle. They couldn’t figure out if he was the Christ God had promised to send or not. So finally, they came up to ask him. “If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.” No more mystery, no more cloak and dagger. They wanted a straight answer.

Jesus gave them a straight answer. “I did tell you.” He did perform miracles in their presence. He did reveal who he was as he taught the crowds who followed him. The problem is that they rejected the miracles and 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 people 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 the Father are one.” He came to save you from your sins; he came to 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. And 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.

Truly Worthy of Praise – May 10, 2025

2025/05/10/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!”
Revelation 5:11,12

Truly Worthy of Praise

Daily Devotion – May 10, 2025

Devotion based on Revelation 5:11,12

See series: Devotions

Whom do you praise? Is it some college basketball team that wins repeated national championships? Is it the man who wears the green jacket? Does your praise go to your son or daughter for getting an “A” on a test or winning a blue ribbon at the art fair? No doubt lots of hard work and effort were put forth. Parents are proud of their children’s accomplishments. Fans rejoice in the victory. But step aside from all that and ask yourself, who truly is worthy of praise?

The apostle John records what he heard and saw in this vision of heaven. Before him are countless angels giving praise to Jesus alone. But it’s not just praise for praise’s sake. They let us know exactly why Jesus alone is worthy of praise. They call him “the Lamb who was slain.”

In the Old Testament Passover meal, a year-old spotless lamb was slaughtered. Its blood was painted on the doorposts in accordance with God’s command. Trusting in God, the Israelites followed these instructions, and the angel of death passed over their houses and were saved. This was a picture pointing forward to Jesus, the spotless and sinless Son of God.

Jesus shed his blood in our place to pay for all our sins. Because of his perfect sacrifice, the gates of heaven are open for all who believe. This is why Jesus alone is worthy of the angels’ praises as well as yours and mine.

Throughout each day, as you live your life according to his will, sing a song of praise to him who has forgiven all your sins and promised you eternal life in heaven.

Prayer:
Lord God, let my life be a song of praise to you, for you alone are worthy of praise. 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.

“Who Is That on the Shore?” – May 9, 2025

2025/05/09/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 21:1-14

Early in the morning, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples did not realize that it was Jesus.
John 21:4

“Who Is That on the Shore?”

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – May 9, 2025

Devotion based on John 21:4

See series: Devotions

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

Megan loved getting her hair cut. But not for the reasons you might think. It wasn’t because she liked the shampoo or having fun with her mom. Megan loved getting her hair cut because of a silly game her dad played with her. After her hair was cut, he would pretend not to recognize her. Even if she only had an inch or two trimmed off, he would act surprised and ask who her mom had brought home! Megan and her dad both knew the game was silly, but it always made them laugh.

It might sound just as funny that the disciples didn’t recognize Jesus in today’s Bible reading. They had been with Jesus for three years! They had heard him teach, seen him perform miracles, and had lots of personal conversations with him. But when they saw him on the shore after his resurrection, they didn’t recognize him right away. Maybe he looked different, or maybe they just didn’t expect to see Jesus that day.

But what’s really important is how they recognized Jesus. He told them to throw their fishing net off the right side of the boat, and when they did, they caught so many fish that they couldn’t pull the net back in!

How did Peter recognize Jesus? He remembered something that had happened before. Peter had caught a big haul of fish once when Jesus told him to do the same thing. That’s when Peter realized, “This is Jesus!” Peter recognized Jesus because he was familiar with what Jesus had said and done.

And you can recognize Jesus too! That’s why it’s so important for you to go to church, listen to Bible stories, and have family devotions. It’s also why memorizing Bible verses is so helpful—even though some can be tricky! The more you learn about Jesus, the more you will recognize him in your life. And when you recognize Jesus, you’ll be able to tell others about him!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for giving us the Bible so we can read about your words and actions. Help me always be excited to learn more about you, so I can recognize you better and share you with others. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

What funny game did Megan’s dad play with her after her haircut?
Why do you think the disciples didn’t know it was Jesus at first?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

How did Peter recognize Jesus?
How does learning about Jesus help us see the ways he works in our lives?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Can you think of a time when you’ve seen Jesus working in your life? How did you recognize it?
How can you share with others the ways you’ve recognized Jesus working in your life?

Download and print devotion

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 – He Knows You – May 9, 2025

2025/05/09/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Watch the Devotion

Based on John 10:27-30

Do you remember that drill instructor? You know the one. Even as I talk about him or her, there’s a strong emotion rolling inside of you. You might even say you hated him or her at the time. But now, with a smile on your face, you can say, “But we respected him. And I needed it at the time.”

Maybe it was that platoon leader, commander, first sergeant, captain, or even a general that you labored for. You remember that individual because they knew you by name. Then you moved on, perhaps up the ranks in promotion, or they changed command or eventually retired. But you know that if you called them up on the phone today, they would know you and call you by name.

That means something, doesn’t it, when someone knows you by name? They have a vested interest in you. You know them because they gave you something. What did they give you? Maybe they were an encourager, a mentor, a model, or an example for your vocation—not just as a warrior but for your marriage, your parenting, or as a single person, to remain faithful, to be a better friend.

In the past 20 years in my time spent with you, the military community, I’ve seen this. You’ve spoken about it and how much certain individuals mean to you. If you don’t have this or haven’t experienced it, that’s okay. Listen to what Jesus says to you today in John 10:27-30: “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.”

That’s the voice of someone who is more than just a mentor, more than just an encourager, more than just a model or example. This is the voice of a shepherd speaking to his sheep. This is the voice of the Good Shepherd—your Good Shepherd.

For those times when it feels like no one really knows you or understands you, he does. He knows you by name. He put his name on you in your baptism. Your name is written in his book of life—he says that about you! He says that he wrote your name on the palms of his hands so that he always has your name before his eyes. He laid down his life for you only to take it up again, just for you. Yes, he knows you.

For those times when it feels like you’re slipping away from relationships with others for whatever reason . . . or that you’re slipping away from your Shepherd because you haven’t been faithful in listening to his voice . . . or your Bible is a little dusty . . . or the church doors haven’t seen your shadow cross them in a while . . . or your Shepherd hasn’t heard your voice in prayer in a hot minute, he promises, “I still know you. My Father has given you to me. I am not going to let anyone or anything snatch you out of my hand. My Father’s firm grip of grace will not let you go.”

He knows you. Listen to his voice so that you are constantly reminded of that comforting truth. He is your Good Shepherd. You are his sheep. He cares for you. He watches over you. He leads you to green pastures and quiet waters and there feeds your hungry soul and thirsting heart with his words of promise. He leads you through those dark valleys of life.

Listen to that voice of promise so that you know him. Go about your day, knowing that he knows you. Go to sleep tonight with this assurance: he knows you.

Prayer:
O Lord Jesus Christ, you are the Good Shepherd who laid down your life for the sheep. Lead us now to the still waters of your lifegiving Word that we may abide in your Father’s house forevermore.

Heavenly Father, you are the source of life and wisdom and all good things. As we celebrate Military Spouses Day, we ask that you bless all military spouses with faithfulness, patience, and an unswerving trust in your promises to do what Jesus prayed for them.

As we look ahead to Mother’s Day, look with favor on all mothers who have given life to their children and who nurtured them with loving concern and faithful instruction. May their children honor them and call them blessed. When they become weary, sustain them with physical and spiritual rest. 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.

We See the One Who Deserves Our Praise – May 9, 2025

2025/05/09/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Then I looked and heard the voice of many angels, numbering thousands upon thousands, and ten thousand times ten thousand. They encircled the throne and the living creatures and the elders. In a loud voice they were saying: “Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!”
Revelation 5:11,12

We See the One Who Deserves Our Praise

Daily Devotion – May 9, 2025

Devotion based on Revelation 5:11,12

See series: Devotions

Some years after his conversion, the apostle Paul found himself with an opportunity to speak about the resurrected Jesus to a crowd of philosophers in the great city of Athens. He began his message by mentioning how many objects of worship he had observed throughout their city. The Athenians were trying to cover their religious bases by having every deity known to man represented and honored in some way. Finally, in case they accidentally missed one, Paul observed that they even had an altar inscribed “To an unknown god.” He proclaimed to them that day that the one they were ignorant of wanted them to know him. The one true God calls all people everywhere to repent and to put their trust in his Son, Jesus, whom he raised from the dead.

Another disciple of Jesus, named John, was given a vision of God’s eternal throne room in heaven. Seated there in the center is Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God, who was killed as a sacrifice for the sins of the entire world. He rules from the throne, because he has been raised to life again and seated at the right hand of God the Father. From there, Jesus watches over his people, whom he bought with his own blood. One day, soon, he will return to earth to raise the dead, to judge mankind, and to bring his people home with him forever.

We are not called to worship some unknown and unknowable deity but to thank and praise the one who was willing to suffer and die for us. We want to give our best in service to him, and not just during a worship service on Sunday morning. Because Jesus our Savior lives, we see him as the one who deserves all our power, wealth, wisdom, strength, honor, glory, and praise.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I will praise you as long as I live—and then on into eternity, because of your sacrificial 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.

Because Jesus Lives, We Can Help Others See – May 8, 2025

2025/05/08/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. All those who heard him were astonished and asked, “Isn’t he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn’t he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?” Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Messiah.
Acts 9:19-22

Because Jesus Lives, We Can Help Others See

Daily Devotion – May 8, 2025

Devotion based on Acts 9:19-22

See series: Devotions

Saul didn’t waste any time. Within days of his conversion and baptism, he was preaching about Jesus as the living Son of God—the very one that a week earlier he had dismissed as a dead blasphemer and whose followers he doggedly pursued to silence at any cost. Now he had added his own voice to theirs.

Saul didn’t send anyone out to the road between Jerusalem and Damascus to convince them. He didn’t expect others to have the same encounter with the risen Jesus that he had had there. Nor did he seek to gather forensic evidence that the one who appeared to him was really Jesus. Rather, Saul took them to the Bible. He pointed them to the many Old Testament prophecies of God’s promised Messiah, and he reminded them of all the things that Jesus did or said or suffered that perfectly fulfilled every one of those promises.

Have you come to see Jesus as the Son of God and your Savior? Maybe you didn’t always see things that way. Maybe you even ridiculed the idea in your past. But now you see Jesus for who he is. He loved you when you were unlovable. He died to pay your debt of guilt and shame before God, and now he lives to assure you that you are forgiven. That truth, that powerful truth, burns inside you. Because Jesus lives, you can help others see that they too have a way out of the world of misery and hopelessness that they find themselves trapped in. An old hymn says, “If you cannot speak like angels, if you cannot preach like Paul, you can tell the love of Jesus. You can say he died for all.”

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, open my mouth to tell others of the saving truth of your resurrection. 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.

The Greatest Church Service Ever – May 7, 2025

2025/05/07/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Revelation 5:11-14

“Worthy is the Lamb, who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!”
Revelation 5:12

The Greatest Church Service Ever

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – May 7, 2025

Devotion based on Revelation 5:12

See series: Devotions

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

What’s your favorite church service? Is it Christmas, when you hear about baby Jesus, the shepherds, and the angels? Maybe Easter, when you sing “Alleluia” and celebrate that Jesus came back to life? Or is it Pentecost, when the church is filled with red decorations, and you imagine a little flame sitting on your head?

Every church service is a special time to come into God’s house and worship him. Some services feel extra exciting with special music, decorations, and favorite Bible stories. But no matter how long or short the service is, it can’t compare to the church service we hear about in the book of Revelation.

The apostle John tells us about a church service like no other—one that’s happening in heaven! What makes this service so special is who everyone is worshiping. When we go to church, we hear God’s Word, but we can’t see Jesus with our eyes. In this heavenly service, John saw Jesus! He saw a Lamb who looked like it had been hurt—but this Lamb was alive. It was Jesus, the Lamb of God, who died for our sins and came back to life!

This heavenly church service is full of amazing people, too. There are so many angels that no one could count them. There are 24 elders—many think they stand for the people of God from the Old Testament and the New Testament. But that’s not all.

John also saw “every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea” joining in the worship. That means everyone—every person who’s ever lived or ever will live. That means people from every city, every country, every place in the whole world. And guess what? That means you, too!

One day, you will be there. You’ll see the angels, the elders, and most of all—you’ll see Jesus, the Lamb who died and rose for you. One day, you’ll be part of the most amazing church service ever, worshiping your Savior face to face. What a day that will be!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, I can’t wait for the day when I will get to see you with my own eyes in heaven. Until that day, help me worship you with my whole heart. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

What’s your favorite song to sing at church? Why do you like it?
Who is someone you could invite to come to church with you? How could you tell them about Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What’s your favorite church service or holiday? What makes it so special for you?
In the worship service that John saw in heaven, who was there? Can you name some of the people or creatures that were worshiping?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What are you most excited about when you think about worshiping Jesus in heaven? What do you imagine that will be like?
Even though we can’t see God with our eyes when we come to church, in what ways is he still with us? How does he show up in our worship?

Download and print devotion

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.

Because Jesus Lives, We Can See Our Purpose – May 7, 2025

2025/05/07/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, “Ananias!” “Yes, Lord,” he answered. The Lord told him, “Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight.” “Lord,” Ananias answered, “I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your holy people in Jerusalem. And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name.” But the Lord said to Ananias, “Go! This man is my chosen instrument to proclaim my name to the Gentiles and their kings and to the people of Israel. I will show him how much he must suffer for my name.”
Acts 9:10-16

Because Jesus Lives, We Can See Our Purpose

Daily Devotion – May 7, 2025

Devotion based on Acts 9:10-16

See series: Devotions

Ananias of Damascus was exactly the kind of person that Saul of Tarsus had been pursuing. If Jesus had not appeared to Saul on his way to Damascus and blinded him, Ananias very likely would have been hauled away to prison along with others who believed in Jesus as their Savior. It’s somewhat understandable, then, that Ananias questioned the Lord’s command to minister to this violent persecutor of the church. You can almost picture Ananias’ jaw dropping when the risen Lord Jesus further explained that Saul was his chosen one to proclaim his name near and far. The one who had caused so much suffering for disciples of Jesus would himself suffer greatly for that same Jesus.

Ananias did as he was told. Face to face with the man who days earlier had been breathing out murderous threats against people like him, Ananias understood that the resurrection of Jesus changed everything. He visited Saul, comforted him, and healed him of his blindness. What’s more, Ananias seems to have had the privilege of baptizing Saul, ushering him into God’s kingdom of grace.

Believers in Jesus have the same calling today: to love the unlovable and to tell them of the forgiveness we have in our Savior, Jesus. Because he lives, we can see our purpose.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, because you died for me and live again, help me live for you and for 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.

WELS CENTER FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY

You Are God’s Bulletin Board!

Closing Prayer:

As I Have Loved You

The Greatest of These Is Love

Read: 1 Corinthians 13:1-13

From Clanging Cymbals to Beautiful Music

Closing Prayer:

Love Never Fails

Love For Every Day

His Loving Legacy – Week of May 19, 2025

ECME Devotion May 19, 2025

Read: Acts 11:1-18

Be Our Guest!

Closing Prayer:

With Christ’s Love, You Gain Everything

Everyday Love

Sing the Song of the Saints

Read: John 10:22-30

Your Good Shepherd’s Voice

Closing Prayer:

No More Tears

The Biggest Crowd

Read: Revelation 7:9-17

No More Tears Ever Again

Closing Prayer:

Safe in His Hands

So Many Voices

Jesus is Trustworthy – Week of May 12, 2025

ECME Devotion May 12, 2025

Read: Acts 13:15,16,26-39

God’s Home Run Promise

Closing Prayer:

Free From Sin

No Riddles

Truly Worthy of Praise

Read: John 21:1-14

“Who Is That on the Shore?”

Closing Prayer:

We See the One Who Deserves Our Praise

Because Jesus Lives, We Can Help Others See

Read: Revelation 5:11-14

The Greatest Church Service Ever

Closing Prayer:

Because Jesus Lives, We Can See Our Purpose

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