Devotions

Part of the In Crowd – August 25, 2022

2022/08/25/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

People will come from east and west and north and south, and will take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last.
Luke 13:29,30

Part of the In Crowd

Daily Devotion – August 25, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:29,30

See series: Devotions

I have vivid memories of my High School cafeteria. That was where the pecking order was established. If you sat at the right table with the right people, you were cool—you were in and accepted.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t cool enough to be at that table. I didn’t have the looks or the skills. I didn’t know how to tell the right jokes or wear the right clothes. So even when I mustered up the courage to sit with those people, I knew I didn’t belong.

Is that how Christianity works? Is Christianity about doing the right things, wearing the right clothes, and speaking the right way so that somehow you become a spiritual insider? Some people in Jesus’ day sure thought so—the religious elite assumed they were part of Jesus’ inner circle. They also thought that anyone different than them were outsiders and unsaved nobodies. But Jesus had a surprise for them.

He said that on the Last Day, there would be many people from faraway lands that they considered outsiders who would get in. And those who thought they were obvious insiders will be cast out. In other words, those who were last will be first, and the first will be last.

Why is that? Often those people who are last in this world recognize their need. They tend to humbly call out to God for help and rescue. They welcome Jesus’ salvation. But those who are first in this life often believe the lie of their own self-sufficiency. They are self-reliant to the point of being self-righteous. They are so full of themselves that there is no room for God.

Here is the good news: If you feel like a spiritual outsider, someone God could never love—know that Jesus came to save just such people. He came to save you so that you who deserve to be last can be first.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank you for welcoming me to your table. Show me what it means to be accepted by you. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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 Two Mountains – August 24, 2022

2022/08/24/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Hebrews 12:18-24

But you have come to Mount Zion, to the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem. You have come to thousands upon thousands of angels in joyful assembly, to the church of the firstborn, who names are written in heaven. You have come to God, the Judge of all, to the spirits of the righteous made perfect, to Jesus the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.
Hebrews 12:22-24

The Two Mountains

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Family Devotion – August 24, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 12:22-24

See series: Devotions

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

Imagine this: There are two mountains in front of you. On the left is a mountain full of danger and no clear path to the top. To make matters worse, no one has ever made it successfully and survived. On the right is a majestic mountain with an automatic chairlift to bring you safely to the peak of the mountain. There is nothing you need to do but sit back and enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way up. Which mountain would you choose to go up?

The writer of Hebrews paints a picture of two mountains in our reading for today. He wants us to imagine what it would be like to climb them. The first is Mount Sinai where God gave Moses and the Israelites the Ten Commandments. That experience was terrifying, and the writer urges us not to go back to that mountain. “Don’t try to get to heaven by keeping the commandments,” he says. He encourages us not to think that we can earn eternal life in heaven by what we do or by being good enough. That will never work because by nature we are sinful, and we sin every day. We can never obtain the perfection God demands. Our effort to gain eternal life in heaven on our own will only lead to eternal death in hell. As the saying goes, Jesus + something (our works) = nothing. Don’t go there!

But there’s another and better mountain—Mount Zion. It’s located in Jerusalem where Jesus went to the temple as little baby, a 12-year-old boy, and to suffer and die. That’s the place today’s Bible reading is talking about. But now the writer is referring to Mount Zion in the future as heaven. As God’s children we can successfully ascend this mountain, not because of anything we have done, but because of all that Jesus has done for us. He came down from heaven to earth as a little baby and lived a perfect life. He suffered and died on the cross to win for us the forgiveness of sins through the shedding of his own blood. Three days later he rose from the dead to win for us victory over sin, death, and the devil. He ascended into heaven 40 days later where he now acts on our behalf so that we can one day join him and all believers of all time in heaven forever.

As Christians we can be confident our names are written in heaven because our confidence lies completely in Jesus and not in ourselves. As the saying continues, Jesus + nothing = everything.

“You have come to Mount Zion.” Go there. And stay there!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Savior, forgive us for the times we think we play even a small part in our salvation. We thank you for doing everything necessary for us to receive eternal life in heaven and help us hold confidently to that truth. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

What were the names of the two mountains?
Which mountain is better?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why could we never save ourselves or earn eternal life in heaven on our own?
What does Mount Sinai represent in our reading for today? What does Mount Zion represent?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What does it mean that Jesus + something = nothing? What does it mean that Jesus + nothing = everything?
How do those truths bring us comfort when we mess up and fail to obey God’s commandments as we should?

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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.

A Narrow Door – August 24, 2022

2022/08/24/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus] said to them, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’ “But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’ “Then you will say, ‘We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’ “But he will reply, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from. Away from me, all you evildoers!’ . . . Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last.”
Luke 13:24-27,30

A Narrow Door

Daily Devotion – August 24, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:24-27,30

See series: Devotions

Jesus says we must walk through the “narrow door” to enter heaven. But what exactly is that “narrow door”? Some people believe that it is about knowing all the right religious teachings. And so, “entering the narrow door” is like passing an academic test. If you know the right answers, you make it through.

Others might think it’s about doing the right deeds. “Entering the narrow door” is about completing a list of tasks. They might think, As long as I go to church, give an offering, and become a good citizen, I’m in.

But Jesus says that on the Last Day, those people who just had a mere superficial and transactional relationship with Jesus will not enter. He will say to them, “I don’t know you or where you come from.”

So how do you “enter through the narrow door”? We trust in him like a child trusts their parents. We rely on him as our way back to God.

Jesus explained what it means to enter this narrow door in John 14:6: “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Today, right now, make every effort to enter through the narrow gate. Put your trust in Jesus. Abandon all hope in yourself and your knowledge and performance. Cling to Christ and let him lead you into your heavenly Father’s presence.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, you are the way through the narrow door of salvation. I trust in you. I will not be afraid. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

Walk Through the Door to Heaven – August 23, 2022

2022/08/23/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus] said to them “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to.”
Luke 13:24

Walk Through the Door to Heaven

Daily Devotion – August 23, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:24

See series: Devotions

Maybe you heard that all you have to do is “believe in Jesus,” and you will be saved. And so maybe you thought that the Christian faith is easy. Just believe, and that’s it. But when Jesus describes salvation, he says, “Make every effort” and “enter through the narrow door.”

So, what is this door? And why does it take so much effort to enter through it?

First, you’ll notice that Jesus is describing a singular door. There are not many doors to heaven. There is one. Jesus said that he is that one and only door. “Very truly I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep” (John 10:7). Every other religion doesn’t offer a doorway but a mountain of religious rituals and rules to gain their god’s favor. But because of the work of Jesus, the doorway to heaven has been swung wide open for all.

But why does Jesus describe this door as “narrow” and that many will not enter it? What does that mean? The doorway to heaven is narrow because no one who is puffed up with pride can squeeze through. Before we enter this doorway, we must recognize our great need as we go through the process of repentance. As we trust in Christ, our self-righteousness is deflated, and we can fit through that narrow door.

Getting to heaven is hard. In fact, on our own it is impossible. By nature, we reject our need to be rescued. But the Holy Spirit makes our unwilling hearts willing to receive Jesus.

Therefore, by the Spirit’s power, enter through this narrow door. Shed your pride and self-righteousness. Cling to Christ in faith and walk through the door to heaven.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I thank you for all that you have done throughout history to open a way for all to be saved. Now, continue to work a miracle in my heart. Lead me to believe and trust in you, so that I might always be confident in my salvation. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

Heaven and Hell – August 22, 2022

2022/08/22/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Isaiah 66:18-24

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

Heaven and Hell

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Family Devotion – August 22, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 66:22-24

See series: Devotions

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

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

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

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

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

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

Closing Prayer:

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

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

Questions for Younger Children

What did Jesus do to save you from your sins?
Where will you live with Jesus forever one day?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

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

Questions for Middle School and Above

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

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.

We’re Invited! – Week of August 22, 2022

2022/08/22/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

We’re Invited! – Week of August 22, 2022

People will come from east and west and north and south, and will take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last.”
Luke 13:29-30

ECME Devotion August 22, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

Silas came to school today bursting with excitement over his upcoming birthday party. Soon, the air was humming with birthday news. Conversations over snack and lunch quickly turned into discussions of who’s invited and who’s not. Imagine everyone’s relief (the teacher’s included!) when the parents clarified that everyone in the class was invited!

In our text for today, Jesus was speaking to a group of people who were also concerned about who would be invited, not to a party, but to the feast of heaven. Jesus’ words about who is invited give us a moment of pause but also assure us of his promise.

Earlier in this section of Luke, someone asked if only a few people would be saved. Jesus helps his audience to understand that the door to heaven is narrow. Jesus is clear in his Word; the way to heaven is found only in him, and the time to think about these spiritual things is now. Jesus also points out that “there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last.” Many of the people at Jesus’ time who had countless opportunities to hear him preach rejected him as their Savior. They may have thought themselves first in God’s kingdom because of the things they themselves had done, but Jesus says these who are first will actually be last. Others may have believed for a time and then became last as they fell away. Jesus wanted his hearers to know the urgency of the truth he is sharing. He is the way, and the time to believe in him is now!

But Jesus’ words also assure us of his promise. Though the door to heaven is narrow, through Jesus alone, people from every direction will take their places at the feast. We ourselves get to be part of it! As we were baptized, as we heard the Word, the Holy Spirit worked powerfully in our hearts to convince us that yes, Jesus is the way and with that, welcomed us to a seat at his heavenly table!

This promise is wonderful news for the families we get to reach, too. When Jesus died on the cross, he died for all! We get to be a part of sharing the good news about the way to heaven with the children and families we serve.

Birthday invitations in preschool can bring excitement and some nervousness as little ones figure out who gets to come. What a blessing that God allows us to hand out invitations to all to know Jesus as the Way!

Prayer:
Lord, you know how many people in our world today don’t know about or have misconceptions about heaven. Help us to be clear about the one way to heaven, through you alone, and help us to be bold in sharing your invitation of grace with all we meet. In your name we pray this, amen.

A Thought to Consider:
Think of one family you serve or friend you know with whom you’d like to share God’s invitation of grace. Brainstorm with a coworker or pastor how you might go about that work.

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.

Make Every Effort to Enter God’s Kingdom – August 22, 2022

2022/08/22/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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

Make Every Effort to Enter God’s Kingdom

Daily Devotion – August 22, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:22-24

See series: Devotions

According to the Pew Research Center, in 2015, there were about 2.5 billion Christians on earth. That is a large number of people professing to follow Jesus. And yet, when you consider that there are about 8 billion people in the world, that number doesn’t seem so high. That might lead us to wonder, are only a few people going to be saved?

That is not a new question. In fact, when Jesus was on his way to Jerusalem, someone asked him, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?” (Luke 13:23) Now we believe that Jesus is true God, and so we believe he knows everything, even the very number of hairs on our heads. (Luke 12:7) He knows the exact number of people who will be saved. But when he was asked, he didn’t disclose that number. He didn’t tell his followers how many people would be saved.

Instead, Jesus responded, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to” (Luke 13:24). Jesus was not dodging the question but redirecting his followers to a more important issue: their own salvation. He was telling them not to assume that they were automatically in God’s kingdom because of their nationality or religious upbringing. He told them to make every effort to enter into God’s kingdom.

The same is true for us. Rather than focusing on how many people will be in heaven one day, Jesus wants us to focus on making sure we are in heaven one day. This means staying close to Jesus and the promises he makes in the Bible—the promise of forgiveness, peace with God and eternal life through his life, death, and resurrection. Strengthening our faith by the power of God’s Word is how we make every effort to enter the door of heaven.

Prayer:
Lord, lead me to grow your kingdom even as you work on my heart. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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 – August 21, 2022

2022/08/21/in Teen Devotions

When our spiritual narcissism entitled us only to be cast out from God’s presence forever, Jesus would be cast out so we would be brought in.

Then Jesus went through the towns and villages, teaching as he made his way to Jerusalem. Someone asked him, “Lord, are only a few people going to be saved?”

He said to them, “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door, because many, I tell you, will try to enter and will not be able to. Once the owner of the house gets up and closes the door, you will stand outside knocking and pleading, ‘Sir, open the door for us.’

“But he will answer, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from.’

“Then you will say, ‘We ate and drank with you, and you taught in our streets.’

“But he will reply, ‘I don’t know you or where you come from. Away from me, all you evildoers!’

“There will be weeping there, and gnashing of teeth, when you see Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God, but you yourselves thrown out. People will come from east and west and north and south, and will take their places at the feast in the kingdom of God. Indeed there are those who are last who will be first, and first who will be last.”
Luke 13:22-30

The First Will Be Last; The Last Will Be First

Steve is the owner of an incredibly popular Italian restaurant—a restaurant so popular you need to make reservations in July to get a table in December. On the days when his restaurant is incredibly busy, you won’t find Steve hiding in the back office; you’ll find him busing tables, mopping floors, and filling in wherever help is needed. One night—when Steve was greeting customers at the door—a group of six women walked in and demanded to be seated. Steve asked for the name on their reservation. The leader of this group says, “Oh, we didn’t make a reservation—but it’s okay. The owner is a personal friend of mine—and he said he always has one or two tables open for special guests like me.” She clearly didn’t know the owner. And Steve didn’t know her, either. What he did know was that this woman was trying to get into his restaurant on her terms—not his. She was trying to illegitimately bypass her need for a reservation and get in however she wanted. She, by virtue of who she was, felt entitled to a seat.

We see that same attitude of entitlement in our story today. Some within Jesus’ audience felt entitled to God’s love because of how good a person they thought they were; others felt entitled to God’s heaven by virtue of their Jewish ancestry. But if it’s by virtue of who I am that gets me right with God, that inherently paves a broad highway to heaven. And so, with one sentence, Jesus demolishes that idea entirely. “Make every effort to enter through the narrow door.” That narrow door is Jesus.

But entitlement seeks to engineer other doors into heaven. Entitlement points to our track record and says “See God? I’m such a good person, I deserve to go to heaven!” Entitlement points to our background or upbringing, and says, “Because I’m this kind of person, I deserve to be loved by God.” The Pharisees listening to Jesus certainly felt that way. They prided themselves on their Jewish lineage and they vigorous devotion to their man-made traditions. They didn’t feel they needed the kind of Savior Jesus came to be. So, you can imagine how offended they got when Jesus said they would stand outside the heavenly banquet pleading to be let in—while the outcasts of society—the foreigners, tax collectors, and prostitutes who clung to Christ in faith—were not only entering the kingdom of God ahead of the Pharisees but were given a seat “at the feast in the kingdom of God.”

How this world determines who’s first and last isn’t how it’s done in the kingdom of God. God’s economy of grace defies our economies of entitlement—and the world isn’t the only one scandalized by the upside-down nature of God’s kingdom: we are, too. “Why wouldn’t I be first?” we say. “I try to go to church and read my Bible regularly. I volunteer. I work hard. I try to be a good person. Shouldn’t that count for something? I mean, sure, sin is bad. But there are people around me who are much worse. Why wouldn’t God love me for who I am?” But if you and I try to appeal to entitlement and point to who we are as our confidence to stand before God, then God would be entitled to respond just like Steve did to that woman trying to get in his restaurant on her terms. “I don’t know you.”

But when our sins of spiritual narcissism entitled us only cast from God’s presence forever, Jesus stepped in. More accurately, Jesus would be cast out so we would be brought in. Jesus was headed to Jerusalem to endure hell on a cross. Not because he was ‘entitled’ to that kind of death—but because we were. His love would move him to be rejected by God so we would be accepted. Jesus endured what we were entitled to in order to win us what we weren’t. Because of Christ and Christ alone, you and I are forgiven before God and restored to him; we, in Christ, are made members of God’s family and have heaven as our home. Jesus would become last to put us first.

We can’t engineer other doorways into heaven. But we don’t have to. The only door is already wide open for the world! Through faith in Jesus alone—clothed with his righteousness, we will stand in joy beside him at the heavenly banquet! Rest assured that you have a seat at God’s table—because his blood has bought your seat. Your reservation is under the name of ‘Jesus’.

Prayer: Dear Jesus, thank you for becoming last to put us first. Thank you for becoming a servant to save us. Thank you for winning us a spot in your heaven and a seat at your table. In your name we pray. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Rejoice Always – August 21, 2022

2022/08/21/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!
Philippians 4:4

Rejoice Always

Daily Devotion – August 21, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 4:4

See series: Devotions

Can we really feel joy in our hearts when we are troubled by past sins? Can we rejoice when we or those whom we love are facing life’s sharp edges of unemployment, financial problems, sickness, uncertainty, pain, and death? How can we rejoice under some of the harsh circumstances we face in life?

The Bible answers, “Rejoice in the Lord.” Our joy as Christians is changeless because it is based on the One who never changes. Unlike people and possessions and positions of power, God never changes. He loves us just as much today as the day he was nailed to the cross for us. He is just as powerful today as the day he defeated death for us.

Your job may have changed. Relationships you have with others may have changed. The sense of security and satisfaction that you once had may have changed. But your God hasn’t changed. And neither has your reason for rejoicing.

In the Lord, outward circumstances do not and should not determine the condition of our hearts. Even when everything around us is dark and gloomy, God’s changeless love fills our hearts with joy. That inner joy flows from sure promises of the gospel: the joy of daily forgiveness, the joy that God is with us, the joy that God works out all things for our good, the joy that Jesus is returning again to take us to be with him in heaven.

Reflect on that joy today as you think how greatly God loves you through Jesus. And then REJOICE! ALWAYS!

Prayer:
Lord, amid the difficulties and disappointments of my life, shine through to my heart with the largeness of your love. Thank you for choosing me to be your own and giving me a changeless and incomparable joy in you, my Savior. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

Useful Discipline – August 20, 2022

2022/08/20/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees.
Hebrews 12:10-12

Useful Discipline

Daily Devotion – August 20, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 12:10-12

See series: Devotions

No one likes to be disciplined. But we all understand that at times, disciplining our children is important, even critical, for their well-being.

The same is true for God’s children. At times it is important, even critical, for him to discipline us. Discipline, sometimes painful discipline, is used by God to make us stronger. Painful trouble is not fun, but God allows it. He allows it, but not because he wants you further away from him. No! Just the opposite is true. He uses trouble and tribulation to draw you closer to him.

When you face trials in your life, remember that God is not punishing you for sin. Jesus already took your punishment in full on the cross. Hear God proclaim his love for you as he forgives all your sins. Listen to God’s care for you when he tells his highest goal for you is an eternity at his side in heaven. Know that he loves you dearly and deeply. The pain you’re experiencing does not disprove that love. Rather, God says this painful discipline emphatically proves his love for you. Through it, God promises “righteousness and peace.” These blessings are yours in Christ.

God may allow very difficult things into the lives of his children. But Christ’s followers know God’s intent is not to cruelly treat his children. God’s desire is to turn our eyes and hearts to him and his Word. God’s goal is to grow our faith as we trust in his promises. Our almighty, all-wise, and loving God will use even painful troubles to discipline us, and “produce a harvest of righteousness and peace.” This pain is temporary. Our joy with God in heaven will be eternal.

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, increase my trust in you when you allow trouble into my life. Drive me back to your Word and your strength. Pull me close to you with your sure promises and love. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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

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

A Hard Truth – August 19, 2022

2022/08/19/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 12:49-53

Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three.
Luke 12:51-52

A Hard Truth

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Family Devotion – August 19, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 12:51-52

See series: Devotions

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

It was a very busy night in this very small town long ago, as many families gathered for an important event. We know this event not only as the counting of people, a census, but as the night of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem. We who believe in Jesus would think the reason many people would gather is because the Savior of the world was to be born. But they didn’t know. In fact, Jesus’ first visitors didn’t even know he was born until angels announced his birth to them. “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests,” the angels proclaimed to the shepherds.

Jesus was born, and now we have peace with God. Jesus came to save us. He lived the perfect life we could not live and died in our place. He was our perfect substitute. Jesus made us right with God. Then why does Jesus say he didn’t come to bring peace?

When Christians stay true to God’s Word and stand up against those who reject God, there is no peace. In its place are arguments, hard feelings, and sadness. Jesus gives an example of how personally dividing faith in him can be. It can split a family right down the middle—a husband from a wife. A parent from a child. It happens when someone lives life for Jesus but others don’t. It creates differences in how you live your life, how you view things, and what you believe is your purpose here on earth. Jesus says living God’s truth can be extremely hard. How tempting to just blend in! Or, in order to keep the peace, say nothing! Issues that need to be talked about get buried under smiles. Family members may not be arguing, but they aren’t discussing their faith either.

How blest we are to have a Savior who calls us to repentance and faith in his peace established on the cross and given to us through our baptism.

A Christmas song says, “Let there be peace on earth, the peace that was meant to be.” Yet, as we learn from this portion of Scripture, complete peace will not be found on earth. Peace will, however, be found when believers reach perfect unity in heaven. That peace is meant to be!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you teach an important lesson today. We want there to be peace, especially in our family, but when others oppose and reject you it splits and divides. Thank you for forgiving our sins and bringing peace between us and our heavenly Father. Give us courage to speak your name. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

How does arguing make you feel?
Describe what it looks like when everyone is at peace in your home.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Jesus said faith in him brings division. Explain what that means.
What did Jesus do as our perfect substitute to restore peace on earth and peace with God?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Discuss how you will respond to anyone, even a family member, who causes division because they don’t believe in Jesus.
God wants us to live at peace. How can you contribute to peaceful living in your home?

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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.

The Black Dog – August 19, 2022

2022/08/19/in Devotions, Military Devotions

The Black Dog – August 19, 2022

Why are you downcast, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.
Psalm 42:11

Military Devotion – August 19, 2022

Devotion based on Psalm 42:11

See series: Military Devotions

Sometimes it’s called “having the blues.” Sometimes, “down in the dumps.” And sometimes, it is called “depression.”

Winston Churchill called it “the black dog.”

He is famous for inspiring Britain during the dark days of World War II. He is remembered for his stirring speeches urging his countrymen to “Never, never, never give in.”

If he had not told us himself, we might never have guessed that, at times, he lived under a cloud of gloom and near-despair. He called them the days “when the black dog returned.”

He is not the only person who has had such days. He is not the only one who struggled to overcome them.

Some people assume that this will never happen to those who put their trust in the Lord. Thus, they infer that having to struggle must mean weak faith.

The Bible does not support that judgment any more than it says a strong faith will keep a person from getting the flu.

The feeling of hopelessness, the feeling of being useless and defeated, is just that—a feeling.

Saving faith is not a feeling. It is a creation of God that grabs hold of his promises as true and lasting. Those promises assure that sin has been paid for by Jesus, the sinless Son of God.

The gospel is the good news of rescue and protection by the Lord Almighty, leading to a future of endless joy and glory.

To a man sick of the palsy, Jesus said, “Son, be of good cheer; thy sins be forgiven thee” (Matthew 9:2 KJV).

Knowing that one’s sin is forgiven is bound to cheer a person up. It removes the greatest threat one can face. There is no more reason to fear even death.

Yet, we note that at this time, the man’s paralysis remained. He possessed saving faith, but he still lived with an affliction. Only when Jesus was accused of blasphemy for claiming to forgive sins did Jesus free him of the affliction to show that he was, indeed, the Son of God.

So it is with all the followers of Jesus on this side of eternity.

Their solid, saving faith does not exempt them from living in a sin-cursed world. Weeds grow up in their gardens, winds blow down their trees, their eyesight may fail them, and their emotions may turn against them.

It is a special gift of God if emotions are not put through a wringer, just as it is a special gift if they never come down with cancer or get into a car wreck.

Emotional adversity is not a sign of weak faith or God’s judgment. It can happen to any believer.

It happened to the writer of this psalm. He was disturbed. He felt depressed. But he was not overcome by these things.

The devil would quickly point to his despondency and claim it as proof that God did not care or that faith in him was useless.

He knew better. He knew things like this happen in the vale of tears.

“Put your hope in God!” he tells himself. The Lord God is his Savior.

Our sinful human nature is often doubting the Lord God’s promises. It may not be able to throw out saving faith, but it surely can put a dent in our ability to live a cheerful life.

If we lose the confidence that God is with us in days of trouble and doubt, the powers of hell have robbed us of some of the joyful blessings the Lord intends for us.

Killing our saving faith is hell’s next objective.

That we dare not allow!

The psalmist is right. “Put your hope in God!”

The hymnist is right. “Be still, my soul: your best, your heavenly friend through thorny ways leads to a joyful end” (Christian Worship 847:1).

The black dog may visit us as we walk along the path of life, but it cannot and will not follow us home.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, restore unto us the joy of your salvation and uphold us with your free Spirit. Amen.

Points to ponder:

How can dark and troubled days end up being a blessing for us?
Why is feeling depressed so painful at times?
Why can the advice “Look on the bright side!” lead to resentment?

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

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

The Way Jesus Divides – August 19, 2022

2022/08/19/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus said] “Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.”
Luke 12:51

The Way Jesus Divides

Daily Devotion – August 19, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 12:51

See series: Devotions

The well-known Christian author C.S. Lewis once commented that being a follower of Jesus is not like a horse training to jump better and better. Instead, it’s like turning a horse into a winged creature. The point Lewis makes is that sometimes people think that becoming a Christian will lead to a few small changes in their lives. But in reality, being a Christian is nothing less than a transformation.

Becoming a Christian is not like adding a backsplash and changing the paint color in your kitchen. It is a full demo—it means stripping everything down to the studs and starting over. That kind of transformation is sweeping and dramatic.

Jesus knows that this kind of change will impact families and relationships. It’s a transformation that will sometimes cause division because Christians no longer conform to the pattern of the world; instead they conform to the pattern of Christ. That type of change means leaving behind sinful situations and temptations. It may even mean leaving family members who reject Christ and mock his followers. When some family members follow Jesus and others do not, divisions will naturally arise.

Jesus’ goal was not to divide families. His goal was to divide people from their sins. Jesus came to separate us from our selfishness. He wants to split us from our guilt and shame. Jesus promises that all who believe in him will be divided from their sin and united to him instead. This good news really does create a transformation in people.

This transformation might mean division for a time on earth, but it also means a far greater peace has been achieved between God and us. Jesus took it upon himself to unite us with God so that we are no longer just his creatures but his sons and daughters. Because of Jesus, we will have peace forever in God’s family.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, help me to bear the divisions that come from following you. Thank you for your great sacrifice and for uniting me with you and all believers forever. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

Directed Discipline – August 18, 2022

2022/08/18/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

They disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, in order that we may share in his holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.
Hebrews 12:10,11

Directed Discipline

Daily Devotion – August 18, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 12:10,11

See series: Devotions

One could argue that the most unloving thing a parent could consistently do to their children is not discipline them. All parenting experts agree that children need discipline. Perhaps you’ve experienced the effects of an undisciplined child. Those children become unhappy, angry, and resentful.

Disciplining is not easy, neither for the parent nor the child, but it is loving. With the perspective of time and wisdom, you can look back at the disciplining you received from your parents and be thankful for it. Though it was unpleasant at the time, it showed how much they loved and cared about you.

The people who received the Biblical letter entitled “Hebrews” were going through a terrible time of suffering. One reason the author wrote to them was to encourage them through this time of tribulation.

The author wanted them to know that the suffering they faced was not a punishment from God, who was angry with them; rather, it was loving discipline from a loving Father. This discipline was intended to increase their faith and reliance on God instead of anything else.

When you face difficult times, sometimes they come simply as the result of living in world full of tragedy, evil, diseases, and disasters. Sometimes they may come as a form of God the Father disciplining you in love. But you can be sure that God is not punishing.

God punished someone else for the world’s sin—his own Son, Jesus. That punishment brought peace to all who trust in Jesus as the Savior. That peace means that even though you will face painful experiences, you can be sure that God loves you, and God will not waste the tears that come from that pain. In love, he will use them to produce a harvest of righteousness and peace for you.

Prayer:
Dear Father, help me endure painful moments and to trust that you love me through it all because you sent Jesus for me. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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

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

It’s Worth It! – August 17, 2022

2022/08/17/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Hebrews 12:1-13

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

It’s Worth It!

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Family Devotion – August 17, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 12:1-3

See series: Devotions

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

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

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

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

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

Closing Prayer:

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

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

Questions for Younger Children

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

Questions for Elementary Age Children

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

Questions for Middle School and Above

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

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.

Run With Perseverance – August 17, 2022

2022/08/17/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1,2

Run With Perseverance

Daily Devotion – August 17, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 12:1,2

See series: Devotions

The concept of a race is universal. Nearly all people have participated in some sort of race at one point in their lives. Races have a starting line, a finish line, and other people to race against. The person who crosses the finish line first wins.

Our Bible reading for today encourages followers of Jesus to run with perseverance. But he is not writing about a track event. He is writing about the race of life. And in this race, winners don’t have to finish first; they just need to finish. It is a life-long race, an ultra-marathon that takes perseverance and striving.

Crossing the finish line of this race means entering eternal glory. Runners win the prize of heaven and life forever with Jesus. This prize never perishes or tarnishes.

But how do you know if you’re running the right way? How do you know if you’re going to cross the finish line and win?

Listen to the coaching in our Bible reading. The key is to fix your eyes on Jesus. With love for you, Jesus ran his race straight to his cross. Along the way Jesus faced temptation and rejection. But he never stumbled over sin or let rejection get in his way. He just kept running. Though the cross would bring him immense pain and shame, he never faltered. As Jesus ran, the joy of you being with him in heaven kept him going. He ran the perfect race in your place. When it was over, he confidently said, “It is finished.”

So, keep looking at what Jesus has done for you. And keep looking to Jesus as you follow him all the way to the heaven he won for you.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, keep my eyes on you until I see you face to face in heaven. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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 Powerful Words – August 16, 2022

2022/08/16/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

“Is not my word like fire,” declares the LORD, “and like a hammer that breaks a rock in pieces?”
Jeremiah 23:29

God’s Powerful Words

Daily Devotion – August 16, 2022

Devotion based on Jeremiah 23:29

See series: Devotions

The prophet Jeremiah faced challenging work. God called him to speak the hard truth to a people who did not want to hear it. Instead, the people had surrounded themselves with false teachers. These false teachers spoke what the people wanted to hear. They claimed God was speaking to them and saying everything would be fine.

But these were lies. The false teachers had not received any messages from God and certainly not one saying that things were fine. Jeremiah warned the people that disaster was right around the corner. Unless they changed their ways: their cities would be destroyed, and they would be taken captive.

The people thought that Jeremiah’s words, really God’s words, were empty. But in time, God’s words proved true. God’s words consumed the false promises of the lying teachers like fire. Their cities were smashed into pieces, and their people captured.

God’s words may not always deliver what we want to hear. They do not promise us a false peace that we desire. We all love affirmation of our actions. But God’s words do not affirm our actions when they are contrary to his will. Instead, we hear that those actions are sins we need to turn away from. Like the people of Jeremiah’s times, we find those words offensive.

But God gives us these hard words in love. Let God’s word smash sinful habits, so we can find life in him. Let God’s words be the fire that consumes shame and guilt.

Those willing to listen to the truth of God’s words will find a much greater peace. They will discover that God promises a security far greater than we could ever imagine. God’s powerful words promise that Jesus has made things right between God and us.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, help me to cancel out the false messages and lies and to listen to the truth of your powerful word. Forgive my sins. Make me trust always in you. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

Speak It Faithfully! – August 15, 2022

2022/08/15/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Jeremiah 23:23-29

Let the prophet who has a dream recount the dream, but let the one who has my word speak it faithfully.
Jeremiah 23:28a

Speak It Faithfully!

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Family Devotion – August 15, 2022

Devotion based on Jeremiah 23:28a

See series: Devotions

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

Exactly nine years ago this week, a mother took her son to a zoo in China. She wanted her son to hear the different sounds the animals made. As they approached the cage marked “African Lion,” the mother hoped she and her son would hear the ferocious roar of the lion. Instead, when they neared the cage and saw the animal, it barked. The lion was actually a Tibetan mastiff, a dog that has a furry brown coat that makes it look like a really small lion. The mother and other customers felt cheated. So the zoo officials tried to explain the situation. They put the dog in the cage when the real African lion was sent to a breeding center. Regardless of any “good reason” the lion wasn’t in its cage, the zoo officials lied. This made people very upset. They expected to see and hear the African lion, but the zoo officials didn’t hold up their end of the agreement. They didn’t tell the truth.

People throughout history have been telling lies. It began with our first parents, Adam and Eve. They lied to God about their sin. People tell lies about their own actions or the actions of others. Sometimes they might lie because they think it will help a situation, but usually one lie turns into another lie to cover up the first one. What’s even worse is when the lie is about God’s Word. When people don’t tell the truth about God’s Word, it is very dangerous because it can pull people away from God’s truth and God himself.

God gives us such a treasure in his Word, yet many people miss its many promises. They twist its truths and spew lies. This is called false teaching. False teachings can lead people further away from God.

God calls us to speak his Word truthfully, just as it is written. When we speak only what God says, others will know what’s true. God gives you the strength to do this through his Holy Spirit when you regularly hear and learn his Word. Sitting with your family and reading or listening to these devotions is just one of the many ways you are carrying out God’s will for your life. Then, armed with these truths, you will be among those who hold this treasure in your heart. You will be able to speak it faithfully to those around you. God promises that his Word will not return to him empty. That means that when people hear God’s Word, the Holy Spirit works in their hearts as God wills it. Then they too can come to believe in Jesus as their Savior and join us in heaven.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your true Word, in which you give us the news about our Savior and salvation. Send your Holy Spirit to strengthen our faith and cause us to speak this Word faithfully to others. In Jesus’ name. 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 animal did the zoo substitute in place of the lion?
What’s it called when you don’t tell the truth?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What happens when God’s Word is not spoken of truthfully and faithfully?
Consider how you can share God’s Word faithfully. Name two promises from his Word that you will share with someone.

Questions for Middle School and Above

Think of a truth from God’s Word. Now think of a way people have tried to change it to something they want it to be.
Share with your family what you would tell someone who challenges the truth of God’s Word.

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.

Eyes Fixed – Week of August 15, 2022

2022/08/15/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Eyes Fixed – Week of August 15, 2022

And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:1b-2

ECME Devotion August 15, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

In my time as a grade school teacher, we had a track meet each year for students in grades K-8. Runners, both little and big, enjoyed practicing for the meet, and grown-ups enjoyed cheering in the stands. Nothing brought more smiles to people’s faces, though, than the kindergarten 75m dash. Legs churning wildly, braids streaming in the wind, big grins…and feet that wound up all over the track. It was a common sight to see runners veer into the next lane or even further! The problem, of course, was that their eyes were fixed on their friends nearby or on their mom in the stands, rather than on the end goal.

In our text today, the writer to the Hebrews tells Christians where their eyes need to be fixed as they run their race toward heaven: firmly on Jesus. Why? Because unlike a grade school track meet, where the course is neatly marked, and the track has been cleared of any debris beforehand, our race looks a lot messier. As we begin the race, the track is already littered with the trash and chaos of a sinful world. Starting to run, our feet often wind up all over the track as our hearts chase after this or that and lose sight of the end goal. Added to that are the devil’s many attempts to make us swerve off course. In fact, the devil wants nothing more than to ensnare us in a sin so tightly that we leave the track altogether.

Thankfully, we’re not the first ones to have run this race. Because we could never make it through this race on our own, Jesus came and ran the race for us. The writer to the Hebrews calls Jesus “the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” Jesus did exactly what we cannot do on our own. He faced every obstacle of the sinful world. He threw off every one of the devil’s traps with the power of God’s almighty Word, perfectly. And he didn’t do that only for himself. The whole time he was racing, Jesus had his eyes fixed on the joy set before him. That joy? It was getting to bring us to heaven to be with him someday. To accomplish that, not only did Jesus live a perfect life, he died on the cross in our place, so that all the times we have veered from the path would be forgiven. As nails were being driven into his hands and feet, Jesus had his eyes fixed on you, on me, so that someday we could run a race that would end up at his side.

Races between Kindergarteners are so much fun to watch. Races for Christians can be painful to observe and to experience. But we have one who has gone before us to not only pave the way, but who is our Way. With time spent in his Word, we can keep our eyes firmly focused on him, all the way to heaven.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, just like a child, our eyes can so easily veer off of you as we run our race toward heaven. Thank you for never losing sight of your goal of saving us. Help us, in your grace, to keep our eyes focused on you each day. In your name we ask this, amen.

A Thought to Consider:
The idea of fixing our eyes on Jesus brings to mind our Savior’s words to Thomas shortly after Easter, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” We can’t see Jesus physically, but in his Word, we get to see Jesus with the eyes of faith. Think about and plan some times throughout this week when you can open your Bible and see Jesus.

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 Wants to Be With You – August 15, 2022

2022/08/15/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

“Am I only a God nearby,” declares the LORD, “and not a God far away? Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?” declares the LORD. “Do not I fill heaven and earth?” declares the LORD.
Jeremiah 23:23,24

God Wants to Be With You

Daily Devotion – August 15, 2022

Devotion based on Jeremiah 23:23,24

See series: Devotions

When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, they thought they could hide from God. They crouched behind bushes and out of sight. It was the first time that people were terrified of God, but it wouldn’t be the last.

When we sin, it triggers something in us called a conscience. Feelings of guilt, shame, dismay, and even terror overcome us.

We have those feelings when we sin because God has written his law on our hearts. We can try to run from God by eroding that law and dulling our consciences. We can even trick ourselves into believing that God does not care about us or what we do. But as God declares through Jeremiah, “Do not I fill heaven and earth?”

We choose to try to escape God, but God does not choose to escape us. And that is good news! Our sins make us repulsive to God, but instead of running away from us, God seeks us. As God sought Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, he looks for us lost sinners.

Instead of washing his hands of the mess of humanity, God decided to stay close. He wants to be with his people even though they sin and make mistakes. God even calls himself “Emmanuel—God with us.” God became like us. Jesus was born, lived a human life, and died a human death. Jesus did that because he does not want our death to separate us from him. Instead, he died to bring us to him in glory in heaven.

Until then, God is still near us. He guides us through life. He seeks us when we stray. He rejoices when he finds us. It’s all because he loves to be with us.

Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for finding me when I try to hide from you. Help me find comfort in your presence. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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 – August 14, 2022

2022/08/14/in Teen Devotions

When the rigor of our race tempts us to give up and lose heart, we look to Jesus—whose pain was our gain.

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

We Want Peace, But the Truth Divides

It was the 1992 summer Olympics. Great Britain’s Derek Redmond readies himself to run the 400-meter semifinal race. As millions watched, many expected Derek to win the gold. The starter pistol fires, and Derek explodes out of the starting blocks and begins his lightning sprint for the finish line.

You and I are running a race, too. But the race we’re running is no 400-meter dash; it’s a lifelong marathon. And while there’s a guaranteed prize at the end of the race we call the Christian life, our Savior guarantees the race won’t be easy. It will be a struggle.

The Hebrew Christians knew the feeling. Persecuted by secular powers and rejected even by their families, these Hebrews must have felt like exiles all over again. Some started to slide back into the familiar rhythms of living under the weight of those ceremonial laws. Others were tempted to run down paths that looked easier—but were filled with sins that ensnared them and obstructed their Christian race. These Hebrew Christians were growing weary and losing heart. Giving up was looking good.

And maybe you know the feeling, too. Unlike the Olympics, the race we’re running isn’t in competition with anyone. But the race the Christian runs is definitely a different race than the rest of the world. In fact, it’s much harder. After all, we’re running behind Jesus—the same Jesus who said, “I have not come to bring peace, but division.” Don’t get me wrong: Jesus—the Prince of Peace—came to win us peace with God. But when the Son of God spoke, people were and still are divided.

Our world loves the Jesus who lovingly made time for the sexually scandalous—but not the Jesus who scandalizes us with his “outdated” views on sexuality, gender, and marriage. Our peers are quick to compliment a Jesus who calls out self-righteous hypocrisy—but quick to condemn a Jesus who would dare say the sin of hatred, in God’s eyes, is tantamount to murder. Our post-modern world, as one pastor put it, “believes the [only] thing we need salvation from is the idea that we need salvation.” It’s no surprise then when we, like the Hebrew Christians, are forced out of friend circles or kicked from our communities for putting stock in a story about the Son of God entering this broken, messed up, dying world for the very purpose of saving it. We strive, as Christians, to run the race marked out for us; but when we are divided from our communities, we’re tempted to give up and lose heart.

But before you do listen again to the author’s encouragement: “Look to Jesus—the author and perfecter of our faith.” Your God and Savior Jesus ran the perfect race for you. His eyes were on your prize. His pain was your gain. Jesus perfectly fulfilled every single one of God’s commandments for you. He ran the gauntlet—even to the point of shedding of blood—because you were his prize. He didn’t run away from the pain. He didn’t run around it, either. He ran headlong into it—because you were on the other side. He ran to Calvary with the weight of your guilt. His race would have him endure our hell on the cross—all to win us the prize of heaven. His dying cry of victory says it all: “It is finished!”

About halfway through Derek Redmond’s race, he tore his hamstring and fell to the ground in pain. He tried to limp through the agony to the finish line. And that’s when his dad ran out onto the track to carry his son to the finish line. Your Heavenly Father is committed to doing the same for you.

That struggles enter our lives isn’t evidence that God doesn’t love us: in fact, quite the opposite. God sends or allows it to disciple us. Just like Derek Redmond had to lean into his father to limp to the finish line, our God wants us to solely depend on him, too. After all, the prize of heaven isn’t contingent on how well we run our race, but on how Jesus ran his race. He, who began that good work of faith in you, will bring that good work to completion. Jesus is the founder and finisher of your faith—and he’s going to see you through to the end. His love and grace will carry you through all the suffering and the heartache until the day you cross the finish line and fall into his loving arms.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you know exactly what we’re going through when we struggle to run our race. In those moments, lead us to lean on you and look to you. We know you will carry us to the finish line. In your name we pray. Amen.

Teen Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Peace on Earth – August 14, 2022

2022/08/14/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus said] “I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division.”
Luke 12:49-51

Peace on Earth

Daily Devotion – August 14, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 12:49-51

See series: Devotions

Didn’t Jesus come to earth to bring peace? Yes! To win that peace, Jesus marched into war against sin, death, and hell. In the verses for our devotion today, he describes the distressing mission to win our eternal deliverance. Jesus looked ahead to the torment and death that he alone would undergo for us. He willingly poured out his lifeblood on the cross to win eternal peace for guilty sinners.

Through Jesus’ perfect life and selfless suffering and death, believers have the peace of God. They are filled with a faith kindled by the Holy Spirit. Their transformed hearts burn within them because of the gospel’s joyful news of peace with God. However, not everyone enjoys the peace Jesus freely won for them. Unbelievers search in vain for worldly peace, dousing the flame of faith extended to them through the gospel. They live as enemies of Jesus, despising the cross and the comfort Christ brings.

Because of humanity’s sin, Jesus’ beautiful gospel message of eternal peace will cause division in this world. Believers will face rejection and ridicule by neighbors, friends, and even family. It is a temptation for believers to attempt to maintain peace in their relationships at all costs. Yet peace maintained at any price is not the purpose of Christ. In love, Jesus reminds his followers that loyalty to him counts more than all else.

Jesus has graciously given us a mission. Filled with Christ’s peace, we hear his call to proclaim his eternal gospel to others. When it appears that the message falls on deaf ears, do not be discouraged. Jesus encourages us, “He who listens to you listens to me; he who rejects you rejects me” (Luke 10:16).

Our ultimate goal in sharing the gospel is that others may know of the peace Jesus won for them so that they may enjoy eternal peace with Jesus in heaven.

Prayer:
Dearest Jesus, thank you for giving me your everlasting peace. Give me confidence to proclaim your message of peace to others. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

Gospel Gems of Ephesians

2022/08/13/in Devotions, Womens Devotions

Gospel Gems of Ephesians – Women’s Devotion

When you were younger, you may have been told to open the card or read the tag before you unwrapped a gift. You know gifts are wonderful—but knowing who gave you the gift and recognizing the love and kindness that has been expressed is truly priceless.

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).

God’s gift of grace brings forgiveness, love, gifts, and a purpose for this life. But it also brings you into relationships with other believers because the single message of faith in Christ binds us together.

And you also were included in Christ when you heard the message of truth, the gospel of your salvation (Ephesians 1:13).

God joins us in Christ for his glory and strengthens us to share his love and spread his gospel. He guides believers, fills them with his Spirit, and leads them in righteousness.

In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord (Ephesians 2:21).

But even as this holy temple rises with truth and holiness, it will face struggles. It will grieve in hardship and long for Scripture’s wisdom when it faces division.

Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (Ephesians 4:3).

God equips us for every struggle. His Spirit, sacraments, and Word give believers everything they need to follow his will and obey his commands. His armor provides our greatest defense against the devil, the world, and our flesh. His weaponry is the Spirit-filled truth of Scripture and its glorious Savior, Jesus Christ.

Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes (Ephesians 6:10-11).

Prayer: Lord Jesus, you have chosen us to be your daughters, washed us clean, and given us a holy purpose. We pray that in this life we would be vessels of truth and witnesses of your love. Bind us together in faith as we strive to love one another and work as one body. Keep us united in your Word and encourage us as we stand side by side in your name. Strengthen us with every perfect truth of Scripture as we live in your victory and righteousness. Amen.

Written by Naomi Schmidt
Reviewed by Rev. Donn Dobberstein

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Fix Your Eyes on Jesus – August 13, 2022

2022/08/13/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
Hebrews 12:2

Fix Your Eyes on Jesus

Daily Devotion – August 13, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 12:2

See series: Devotions

What do you see happening…in your own life…in your world? No doubt, you witness joyful sights—the birth of a healthy child, a sports victory, a marriage anniversary trip, a graduation ceremony, a retirement party. But there are also plenty of troubling sights that you see with your eyes and that dwell in your mind—a terrorist attack, vicious activity on the campaign trail, a loved one laid to rest, job termination papers, divorce decrees, defeat, signs of mortality—sin in general.

We can easily become fixated on things good and bad in this life. But it’s important for us to deal with all of life’s experiences with the perspective of faith in Jesus as our Savior. The Bible passage today, gives this encouragement: “Let us fix our eyes on Jesus…” It is an encouragement that God gives to us when the things we see and experience in this life get us down.

Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, who is the object and the source of our faith and hope. Who strengthens the faith he gives through his gospel promises. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, who now sits at God’s right hand in a position of all power and authority, ruling over the events of this world for the sake of his followers.

Jesus is the unchanging, unshifting, solid, and steady rock on which to base our faith and build our lives. By fixing eyes of faith on him, he gives us perspective, steadiness, and strength through all events of life, good and bad. He gives our life real meaning, joy during earthly sorrow, and the sure hope of glorious life with God forever. No matter what we see in this world with our eyes, let’s fix our eyes, the eyes of faith, on Jesus.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, there are so many things, good and bad, that I see in this world that threaten to divert my gaze from you. Help me to always focus on you and your forgiving grace, my Savior, brother, and friend. In your name I pray. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

You’re an Heir of the Promise Keeper – August 12, 2022

2022/08/12/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 12:22-34

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

You’re an Heir of the Promise Keeper

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Family Devotion – August 12, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 12:22-23,32

See series: Devotions

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

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

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

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

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

Closing Prayer:

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

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

Questions for Younger Children

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

Questions for Elementary Age Children

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

Questions for Middle School and Above

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

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.

The What and Why – August 12, 2022

2022/08/12/in Devotions, Military Devotions

The What and Why – August 12, 2022

Then Naomi took the child, laid him in her lap and cared for him. The women living there said, “Naomi has a son.” And they named him Obed. He was the father of Jesse, the father of David.
Ruth 4:16

Military Devotion – August 12, 2022

Devotion based on Ruth 4:16

See series: Military Devotions

We usually are more concerned with the “What?” questions in life than with the “Why?”

We concentrate on what we are doing now and what we will do next. We look back at what we did in the past.

We usually don’t ask the “Why?” unless things seem to have gone wrong.

Then the question is often, “Why did this happen to me?”

We ask that when we try to make sense of some misfortune. We might blame ourselves for the trouble we are in or blame someone or something else.

We might even blame God.

Is he not ultimately responsible for what happens in our life? Is he not Lord of all?

An Old Testament woman named Naomi thought so.

She had lived in Bethlehem with her husband and two sons. Famine drove them to the heathen land of Moab. Her sons married Moabite women. Then both sons died—after her husband died.

She returned to Bethlehem with a daughter-in-law, Ruth. Both were widows now. Both were poor.

Upon her return, she told the people, “Don’t call me Naomi.”

“Naomi” means “pleasantness.” Her life was no longer pleasant.

“Call me Mara,” she said, “because the Almighty has made my life very bitter.”

“Mara” is the Hebrew word for bitter.

The “What?” question seems to have been answered for her. What she experienced was a bitter loss.

The “Why?” question awaited an answer. It must have been a painful wait.

Probably, no less painful for Ruth.

Ruth was now a widow in a foreign land. She was cut off from family and friends in Moab. What had happened to her did not seem good.

What was she doing there? She was accompanying her mother-in-law.

Why? The wife of Naomi’s other son stayed in Moab. Why would Ruth leave her family to live in Israel?

She had answered Naomi before they left. “Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God” (Ruth 1:16).

The heathen Moabitess had learned that the God of Israel was the God who loved her, too.

Could this be why God led Naomi and her family to seek safety in Moab? Was this part of God’s plan to bring this heathen woman into the family of God?

It surely was.

What wondrous love the Lord has in his heart for people like Ruth!

But then, is it any less amazing that he reached out to us? Don’t each of us have an extraordinary story lying in our past even though we know only pieces of it?

How far back goes the thread of our rescue from death and hell? What has all taken place that we can now stand among the family of God?

Our story of salvation began in Eden with God’s promise of a Savior. It continues on to include what happened to Naomi and her daughter-in-law.

Ruth married a God-fearing man from Bethlehem. As a result, she gave Naomi a grandchild named Obed. We don’t know much about him or his son Jesse. But we do know a great deal about his grandson, David, the giant killer, David, the king.

A thousand years later, in that same Bethlehem, from the bloodline of Ruth, Jesus the Savior was born.

Without him, we would have no hope.

What happened to Naomi in Moab made her life bitter.

Why it happened makes our life blessed.

The psalmist wrote, “Blessed are the people whose God is the LORD” (Psalm 144:15).

The “What?” in the lives of God’s people is explained with the “Why?”

Why?

Because he loves us.

Prayer: Heavenly Lord Jesus, you once said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” The story of our salvation begins with your undeserved love. What you allow to happen in our lives flows from the wonderful reason why it happened: to make us your own. For that, we will praise you forever. Amen.

Points to ponder:

How does the knowledge that people outside of the nation of Israel are in the Savior’s bloodline bring us assurance?
Do you think Naomi’s faith was weak when she said God had made her life bitter?
The book of Ruth does not mention the way of salvation. Why do you think it is in the Bible?

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.

Set Your Heart on Heavenly Treasure – August 12, 2022

2022/08/12/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Luke 12:33,34

Set Your Heart on Heavenly Treasure

Daily Devotion – August 12, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 12:33,34

See series: Devotions

“Their heart just wasn’t in it.” When have you heard or said that phrase?

Maybe it was a dramatic or musical performance that, even though it lacked mistakes, felt flat, and lacked passion. Maybe it was a player in an athletic contest who seemed distracted and didn’t perform up to their usual ability. Maybe it was someone who decided to switch paths—to change schools or careers—when they didn’t find joy in the path they were on.

You can often tell when someone’s heart is in something and when it’s not. And we set our hearts on the things most important to us, on the things we treasure.

When we set our hearts on things that don’t last, we will eventually be disappointed. Human achievements, worldly wealth, even health and family don’t last forever. Setting our hearts on such things can leave us feeling uneasy, and rightly so. When those blessings are taken away from us, our hearts are left empty. And that uneasiness or emptiness can show in how we live our lives.

But Jesus reminds us that we have more to live for. We have treasure that cannot be taken away from us. It is the treasure of life without disappointment, failure, or loss. It is the treasure of life in God’s perfect, loving presence.

Jesus bought that treasure for us with his holy life and his innocent death. Watching Jesus’ life, as his story is told in the Bible, no one would ever say his heart wasn’t in it! He was all in for you! He paid the ultimate price to buy for you and me the treasure of eternal life with him because he treasured us above his own life.

Heavenly treasure is yours! Priceless treasure without cost or condition and that nothing can destroy! Ponder and celebrate that treasure. Live for it. Live each day with your heart in it—focused on your true treasure.

Prayer:
Jesus, you set your heart on saving me. Move me to set my heart on the priceless treasure of life with you! Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

Heavenly Treasure – August 11, 2022

2022/08/11/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it . . . your Father knows that you need them. But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.
Luke 12:29-31

Heavenly Treasure

Daily Devotion – August 11, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 12:29-31

See series: Devotions

She’s lost everything. Left to raise her three children on her own, she often doesn’t know how she will be able to afford even basic things like food and clothes. Chronic medical conditions and unexpected emergencies left her in debt with little or no money to pay the rent.

Maybe you’ve been in her position. Maybe, even with far more, you worry. You worry about the rising cost of food, clothes, housing, and gas. You worry about paying your bills and preserving your savings.

She used to worry like that, but now she sees things differently. Three years ago, she was in a homeless shelter, and someone told her about Jesus. She learned that he left heaven to live in her place, to walk in her shoes, to fight against the temptation to worry and every other temptation she faced, and to overcome. She learned that even his closest friends and his heavenly Father abandoned him when he needed them most. For her, for you and for me, he died, giving up everything to give us everything. And then he came back to life to assure her that her worry, lack of trust in God, fears, and failures were all forgiven. He came back to life to promise that this life is not the end. Those who trust in him will live with him forever in heaven, where there is nothing to fear and no temptation to worry.

That news changed her life. She still works hard to meet the challenges she faces every day. But now, she knows that she has an eternal home waiting for her. She has a loving God caring for her. She doesn’t need to worry. Whether things are tough or life is good, she has learned to focus on God’s Word, God’s promises, and the treasure God won for her in heaven. Her focus on heavenly treasure drives out worry.

Prayer:
Father, forgive me for worrying. Focus my heart on the heavenly treasure your Son Jesus won for me. Help me to trust you to meet all my needs. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

Believe the Promise Maker – August 10, 2022

2022/08/10/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16

By faith Abraham, when called to go to a place he would later receive as his inheritance, obeyed and went, even though he did not know where he was going. By faith he made his home in the promised land like a stranger in a foreign country… For he was looking forward to the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.
Hebrews 11:8,9a,10

Believe the Promise Maker

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – August 10, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 11:8,9a,10

See series: Devotions

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

Have you ever been on a hike with your family? Some hiking trails are short and easy with few hills and clear paths. Other hiking trails are more treacherous with steep inclines and winding paths obstructed by tree limbs or roots. Regardless of the difficulty of the trail, you probably want an adult or parent to guide you, especially if you don’t know where you’re going. When you have a guide, you can move forward because you trust the one leading you.

Abraham went on a long journey. God promised him and his descendants a land that they would call their own, a land so bountiful that all their needs would be met. But can you walk in Abraham’s sandals for a minute?

Abraham didn’t know much about this land. He had never been there. There were no maps for him to follow and no pictures for him to look at. He didn’t get to decide if it looked like a land that would be best for his family, like you and your family do before planning a vacation or moving. He wasn’t able to talk to anyone who had been there to get advice. He knew he would feel like a stranger in this land. Why would he go with little to no knowledge of this place?

Count how many times the phrase “by faith” is used in Heb. 11:1-3, 8-16. Clearly, God is making a point with this repeated phrase. Faith in God enabled Abraham to move forward, to take one step after another. He knew that God was his guide. He trusted God to lead and provide for him and his family. Abraham believed that God knew what was best and had many good things waiting for Abraham and his family.

Abraham’s journey also taught him that this earth was not his forever home. When Abraham and his family arrived in this land, they made their home as strangers in a strange land. They knew that this was only a temporary home. Our text tells us that Abraham was looking forward to “the city with foundations, whose architect and builder is God.” God promised him a forever home—heaven! Abraham saw beyond this world and pressed on, trusting that his eternal home was waiting in heaven.

Like Abraham, we believe that the town or building in which we live on this earth is only a temporary home. Christians sometimes feel like strangers as we live in this world. Though our lives in this sinful world might be filled with the ups and downs, the end of our journey is just the beginning of our life in heaven. That is a home worth waiting for, and it’s all yours through faith in Jesus! Let’s journey together with God as our guide!

Closing Prayer:

O Lord, give us faith like Abraham’s that follows where you lead and holds to your promise of heaven. We praise you for your goodness to us. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

How would you feel if God told you leave your home and live somewhere else like he told Abraham?
Why did Abram confidently go where God told him?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Discuss why Abraham might have felt like a stranger in a foreign country?
According to the devotion, how should we view our life on earth?

Questions for Middle School and Above

“By faith” many Bible heroes followed God. Discuss what you are doing right now in your life “by faith.”
Discuss with your family how talking about our final and forever home in heaven actually makes our daily lives better.

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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.

Gift of Faith – August 10, 2022

2022/08/10/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Hebrews 11:1

Gift of Faith

Daily Devotion – August 10, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 11:1

See series: Devotions

You have to see it to believe it. Maybe you’ve been on vacation and seen something like that. An ocean sunset or mountain sunrise. A majestic animal or awe-inspiring display of athletic or artistic skill. The descriptions, pictures, or videos just don’t do justice. Those we tell must take our word for it.

The Bible tells us some amazing and awe-inspiring things. It describes a God who transcends space and time, who came in time as a human being to rescue those who rebelled against him. It describes a love without limit, forgiveness without condition, and an eternal reward freely given to those who could never earn it.

I wasn’t there to witness Jesus’ birth or to watch his death. I didn’t see the empty tomb when he rose from the dead or stand on the mountain when he ascended into heaven. God hasn’t given me the visions of heaven that he gave the apostle John in the book of Revelation. And even if I had seen all those things, I wouldn’t have seen the full truth. I wouldn’t have understood the full significance.

But we don’t live based on what we see. Instead, God asks us to take him at his word. God made the universe and then put a plan in motion to save humanity from the death and destruction we brought on ourselves. God prepared for humanity a heavenly city for us to dwell in his presence. God promises that we enter that city through his Son, Jesus, who came to save us.

God reveals all of that to us in the Bible. And as we hear it and read it, the same God leads us to believe it is true. That’s faith. It is confidence about things I don’t see.

I don’t have to see it. I don’t have to fully understand it. God says it. I believe it. Someday, I’ll see it with my own eyes. Until then, I thank God for the confidence he gives me through his gift of faith.

Prayer:
Lord, through your Word, give me confidence in what I hope for and assurance about what I do not yet see. Amen.

Daily Devotions are brought to you by WELS and www.WhatAboutJesus.com.

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.

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