Devotions

Feel Safe in the Midst of a Storm – June 22, 2022

2022/06/22/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 2 Timothy 1:3-10

God did not give us a timid spirit, but a spirit of power and love and sound judgment. So do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner. Instead, join with me in suffering for the gospel while relying on the power of God.
2 Timothy 1:7,8

Feel Safe in the Midst of a Storm

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Family Devotion – June 22, 2022

Devotion based on 2 Timothy 1:7,8

See series: Devotions

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

Do you like thunderstorms?

Thunderstorms can be okay when you’re inside of a house with your family and the windows are all shut. Thunderstorms aren’t scary when you feel safe.

But what if you were camping in a tent, and a big thunderstorm started dumping rain onto your tent. The wind is blowing, the lightning cracks—BOOM! That thunderstorm would be a little scary, wouldn’t it? Thunderstorms like that don’t make you feel safe.

Today, Paul talks about being a prisoner. He was put into jail because he was preaching about Jesus. Paul even said that he would probably die before being released as a free man. Talk about scary!

But Paul was safe. Paul felt safe because he knew that Jesus had forgiven his sins. Paul knew he was safe, because Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to live in each Christian when they are brought to faith. Even though Paul was in a scary place, he was safe.

And scary things aren’t scary when you are safe.

That’s why Paul says these things in our reading. He basically says, “Friends! You’re safe! You’ve got nothing to worry about. You have a Savior who rose from the dead. You have a Savior who made you his witness. You have nothing to be scared of, nothing to be ashamed about—because Jesus has taken away your sin!”

In other words: Dear young Christians,—you are always safe. And the Jesus who has made you safe wants to make you his witnesses. Witnessing to Jesus means talking about Jesus and remembering that the resurrection of Jesus means all sin has been forgiven.

It’s true that talking about Jesus might bring some difficulty. After all, Paul was put into prison for talking about Jesus. That probably won’t happen to you—but you might feel a little uncomfortable at first. That’s okay! You’re safe! You have nothing to fear; you have a Savior who has broken the power of death and opened the door to heaven. Nothing can hurt you… not even a thunderstorm!

Closing Prayer:

Thank you, Jesus, for making me safe. Give me the willingness and words to speak as your witness. 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 something that is scary for you.
When you’re scared, what makes you feel safe?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

How can God use suffering to teach us to trust him?
What is an easy way to practice talking about Jesus?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Why would God allow suffering in our lives—especially if it is a result of our witnessing? (For instance, Paul was imprisoned for preaching about Jesus.) What good does God accomplish through suffering?
Paul closes with a statement: “Join with me in suffering for the gospel while relying on the power of God.” Why must suffering as a Christian go hand in hand with relying on God’s power?

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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.

God-given Gifts – June 22, 2022

2022/06/22/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.
2 Timothy 1:6,7

God-given Gifts

Daily Devotion – June 22, 2022

Devotion based on 2 Timothy 1:6,7

See series: Devotions

God has made me a learner, self-assured, eager for the input of others, value-driven, and able to put things and people in the places that set them up for success. How has God gifted you? Has he made you comfortable in front of crowds? Hard-working? Attentive to detail? A careful thinker? He has made you: body, soul, and mind. That means you have characteristics as unique to you as that birthmark behind your left elbow. Those gifts that he’s given to you have been laid at your feet for a purpose, “for the good of those who love him.”

That was certainly true of Timothy. He had gifts. And his spiritual father, Paul, saw them and encouraged them. “Fan them into flames,” he told Timothy. Don’t be content just to have them, but cultivate them, develop them, and lean into them. “They have been given to you; now make the most of them!”

Are you asking, “How do I fan my gifts into flame?” Fair question. Maybe the acronym ILPF will help (Identify – Learn – Practice – Feedback). Identify those gifts that you have. Maybe that’s a reputable assessment or asking a trusted mentor, “What do you see in me?” Then, learn about those gifts. What are they like? Who else has them? What is the danger of misusing them? Next, practice. You don’t get good at anything without endless cycles of trying and failing. That’s practice. And finally, get feedback. Ask those close to you, “I tried to use my gift. How do you think it went? What should I think about the next time?” As you live in your God-given gifts, watch as the Lord carries out his will.

Prayer:
Lord, thank you for these gifts I have. I know they are from you. Help me to use them in a way that builds your kingdom. 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.

From Generation to Generation – June 21, 2022

2022/06/21/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also.
2 Timothy 1:4,5

From Generation to Generation

Daily Devotion – June 21, 2022

Devotion based on 2 Timothy 1:4,5

See series: Devotions

I remember visiting my grandparents every summer. They were farmers who lived in the shadow of the Rocky Mountains. One reason I loved to visit was the copious amounts of ice cream my Grandma Eunice had hidden away for us. Another reason was the chance to ride big machines. But do you know what I remember, to this day, even more than push pops or tractors? I remember my Grandfather Lois read to us from his Bible after breakfast. He never read for very long, and it was never a big deal. But in those few minutes of reading, he modeled for the family what was important, and even a seasoned Christian regularly gets into God’s Word.

Young Pastor Timothy had models in his life too. A grandmother and mother who prioritized a relationship with the living God. Women who passed their faith down to their son and grandson. Their faith meant so much to them that they gave it to those they loved most. And look what God accomplished in that generational gift! How many more generations have come to faith because Lois and Eunice passed down their faith!

Maybe you never had that: a family that spent time in God’s Word—maybe you didn’t even go to church growing up. Maybe your family went to church, but that was the extent of “Jesus talk” during the week. That’s not easy, but you aren’t alone. God has a habit of calling the unlikely into his kingdom and making them family.

One final thought, consider this your calling to be a Lois or Eunice to the children in your life—to your kids, your grandkids, a niece or nephew, or the kids in your classroom. What you and I believe is too good to not pass on.

Prayer:
Dear Holy Spirit, thank you for giving me a family of faith, for those who have played spiritual mom and dad in my life. Keep them safe from harm and temptation. Give me opportunities to pass on what I believe to the next generation. 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 True! You are Different – June 20, 2022

2022/06/20/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Isaiah 43:8-13

You are my witnesses, declares the Lord. You are my servant, whom I have chosen, so that you may know me and believe in me, so that you will understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, and after me there will not be another.
Isaiah 43:10

It’s True! You are Different

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Family Devotion – June 20, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 43:10

See series: Devotions

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

“Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.” – Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss wrote those words in a book about birthdays—celebrating the fact that each of us is unique, with different abilities, interests, and responsibilities.

And it’s true! There’s no one quite like you, no one with the same interests or abilities. Take a moment to name something you’re interested in, something you enjoy, or something that you can do.

In today’s reading from Isaiah 43, God talks about his believers. He says they’re unique and different—and it’s true! You and I are different from those who don’t know Jesus. In the reading from Isaiah 43, God says that people without faith in Jesus are blind and deaf—even though they have eyes and ears.

The reason God calls them “blind and deaf” is because unbelievers don’t know God’s truth. In fact, God says they don’t know any truth!

“Today you are you, that is truer than true…” And God made you to be special, unique, and different. God bought you with the blood of Jesus and brought you into his family through Holy Baptism.

And there’s more! You know God’s truth. You know the truth about time—that God created us to love and serve him, and that we humans sinned against God. You know the truth about salvation—that Jesus died and rose from the dead to win forgiveness, and that he freely shares this forgiveness.

That’s why God says these words in our verse today, “You are my witnesses, declares the Lord. You are my servant, whom I have chosen, so that you may know me and believe in me, so that you will understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, and after me there will not be another.”

We have God’s truth. And he made us to be unique and different. He has made us his witnesses—that we may talk about our Savior to a world that cannot know him any other way.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for making me your witness. Thank you for giving me certain truth in your Word, that I know where I came from, how you saved me, and where I’m going. Give me the words and the confidence to be your witness. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

What is one way that a Christian is different from someone who doesn’t believe in God (an unbeliever)?
How did God make you his witness?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why does God call unbelievers “blind and deaf” in Isaiah 43:8,9?
Take a moment to think. Then name one Bible truth that the world rejects today.

Questions for Middle School and Above

“We should fear, love, and trust in God above all things.” Compare that explanation to the First Commandment with what God says in Isaiah 43:10. Think of at least one thing people trust as their god, even though there is no other God aside from our Triune God.
God’s words create what God promises. In Isaiah 43:10, God describes three purposes for making us his witnesses. What are they? And how do these three purposes help direct our witnessing?

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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 Power of God’s Words – Week of June 20, 2022

2022/06/20/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

The Power of God’s Words – Week of June 20, 2022

Shout for joy to God, all the earth!
Sing the glory of his name;
make his praise glorious.
Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds!
So great is your power
that your enemies cringe before you.
All the earth bows down to you;
they sing praise to you,
they sing the praises of your name.
Psalm 66:1-4

ECME Devotion June 20, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

You’re sitting in a dark room and shout out, “Let there be light!” You pause expectantly. Nothing. You try again, this time with a bit more gusto. “Let there be light!” You pause again. Still nothing, but you really knew that all along. You could whisper it, shout it, sing it, say it in another language, but unless you walked over to the light switch, you’ll remain in a dark room. Our words can be powerful in that they can encourage or discourage another person. Our words can express care, or they can hurt. Our words can teach and inspire. While powerful, they are nothing in comparison to God’s words. His words have power beyond what we can understand. Think of creation. God spoke the simple words, “Let there be” and there was light, darkness, firmament, trees, fish, animals, stars, sun, mountains, and on and on.

Think of the many times that Jesus spoke, and miracles happened. A lame man walked with sins forgiven and body healed. Lazarus rose from his tomb. The storm at sea was calmed. Leprosy gone, Jairus’ daughter and the widow’s son raised from the dead. He spoke and his words had power over life, over health, over nature.

Jesus also used his powerful words that have us in awe in another way. Several times Jesus demonstrated his power over his enemies and over Satan. Luke 8:26-39, a reading from this Sunday, shares the account of Jesus restoring a demon-possessed man. In this story, Jesus gave permission to the demons to leave the man and go into a herd of pigs. The demons needed his permission. His words have power to create, to forgive, to heal, and to protect and save those he loves from evil.

What does that mean for us? As today’s reading shares, we can stand in awe and praise God for all he has done for us and continues to do. We are witnesses who get to tell all that God has done. Every time we share a Bible story or tell about the miracles of Jesus, God uses it for his glory and to push back the power of Satan. While not taking Satan’s power for granted, we don’t need to fear Satan and his attacks on us. God is our protector and defender whose love for us defeated Satan. We can live each day with bold confidence as God’s dearly loved child. We can use our words to share God’s Word. As today’s verses say, we can shout it, say it, sing about God’s awesome power and his love for us! Shout for joy!

Prayer
Dear Jesus, let me never lose sight of how amazing and powerful you are. Help me to use my words to praise you and to tell others about you, not just in my role as an educator, but with all those you place before me in my life. In your name I pray. Amen

For Further Meditation:
CW21 640/CW93 293 God’s Word Is Our Great Heritage
CW21 871/SW93 455 Rise! To Arms! With Prayer Employ You

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.

Keep Praying – June 20, 2022

2022/06/20/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

I thank God, whom I serve, as my ancestors did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers.
2 Timothy 1:3

Keep Praying

Daily Devotion – June 20, 2022

Devotion based on 2 Timothy 1:3

See series: Devotions

It was the little boy’s turn to say prayers at family devotion. With head bowed, eyes closed, and a solemn voice, he said, “Dear Jesus, make all the bad people good, and make all the good people nice.”

Whom have you prayed for lately? A family member? A coworker? A neighbor? Maybe your list is long and constantly changing. Maybe your list is short and hasn’t changed since bell-bottom jeans were in style. But you pray.

You pray because you know that God has invited you to pray. The door to his throne room is open just for you. As you walk in, the King of kings who conducts the affairs of the universe leans forward with eyes locked on you, ready to hear what and who is on your mind.

The apostle Paul made the most of that power for young pastor Timothy, his student, protege, and friend. Paul constantly prayed. He knew that prayer was wrestling with God for the good of God’s kingdom. He knew that in the hearing of prayer, the Lord of heaven blocked out the attacks of Satan and crushed any evil plans. Paul knew that prayer realigned Paul’s dreams and desired to reflect God’s dreams and desires more fully. And so, Paul prayed for Timothy.

Like Paul, keep on praying. God is eager to hear what you have to say and carry out his plan for the world. A plan that has only your good in mind and crushes evil, now and for your eternity.

Prayer:
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Thank you for hearing my prayers. May I be emboldened to pray more often and with bigger prayers because you have invited me to pray. Take my prayers and answer them as you know best. Crush evil and bring about your good. In Jesus’ 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.

Transformed – teen devotion – June 19, 2022

2022/06/19/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: The moment you can’t see or understand God’s direction for your life may be the very one God knows we need to grow in faith.

Soon afterward, Jesus went to a town called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd went along with him. As he approached the town gate, a dead person was being carried out—the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the town was with her. When the Lord saw her, his heart went out to her and he said, “Don’t cry.”

Then he went up and touched the coffin they were carrying him on, and the bearers stood still. He said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” The dead man sat up and began to talk, and Jesus gave him back to his mother.
Luke 7:11-15

“Young man, I say to you, GET UP!”

There’s an old German word for certain feelings and the times you feel those feelings: Anfechtungen (take your time to say it—an-fech-tung-en). There are moments when you can clearly see God’s divine direction for your life, but other times you can’t find him. It’s as if God is playing hide ‘n seek so well that he’s successfully hidden himself from you. That’s Anfechtungen. Something rocked your world and assaulted everything you thought you were certain about. There’s a little inner voice echoing, “Is God compassionate or cruel? At the moment, I don’t know.”

Hear out what you are about to read next: The next time you feel Anfechtungen, embrace it.

Anfechtungen was hanging in the air and in the hearts of today’s Bible reading. It was a funeral procession. On the shoulders of six men is the reason for their grief: a cold body on a wicker stretcher. Cradled in the casket is the corpse of a young man. Such a sad sight. But even more heart-wrenching was the look on the face of the young man’s mother heading the procession just behind the coffin. She recently walked the same road when she buried the body of her husband. Then, her son walked beside her. Now she walks alone. She’s the one who’ll have to go home later that night and sleep in an empty house. She’s the one who’ll sit at a table alone after making dinner for one and conversation with none. Death stole her family. Might she be saying to herself “What did I do to deserve this? Does God have it in for me?”

Then, she meets Jesus. When Jesus saw the mother, his heart broke for her. How shocked she must have been to hear him say, “Don’t cry.” Don’t cry? Who would say that at a funeral?!

Only God can. Jesus said, “Young man, I say to you, get up!” People gasped as the dead stirred back to life. Cold, wooden fingers flexed. Gray-pale cheeks turned rosy again. The dead man sat up and began to talk. “What’s going on here? Why am I here? What’s this crowd about? Why am I all wrapped up in a bedsheet?”

Here we see what kind of God we have. We have a God who is so touched by our sorrow and our needs, he feels our hurt and is full of compassion. Like the young man we’re all destined to die. Like the dead young man, we can do nothing to seek the Lord. The procession of life led by Jesus must find us and stop the procession of death. Jesus glared at the angel of death that hovered over the body of the boy. “Not this time. This boy is mine.” Jesus has given us life. He rained on death’s parade by pouring over us the waters of baptism and declared, “Not this time. This child is mine.” Jesus has given us life.

This is what it means to have Jesus in your moments of Anfechtungen. Even as you experience a spiritual assault so vicious it is robbing you of comfort and personal peace, you still have Jesus. To have Jesus means to depend on him with all your heart no matter how you presently feel. Jesus really cares for you. His care is perfect and wise and always for eternal good.

When you don’t know where else to go, may the mercy and power of God lead you to the one who now says, “I say to you, GET UP!”

Prayer: Dear Jesus, there is so much going on around me that brings me down. In those moments when I feel down and question your goodness, remind me how you stared down the power of death for me. In my down moments, may I trust in your power and be encouraged by your command to get up and live by your grace! 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.

The Difference – June 19, 2022

2022/06/19/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.
Romans 5:3,4

The Difference

Daily Devotion – June 19, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 5:3,4

See series: Devotions

For many, it is the stuff of nightmares, a physical condition too horrific to contemplate, the worst of worst-case scenarios. But for a young boy by the name of Nick Vujicic [pronounced, VOY-yitch-itch], this nightmare was real.

Nick was born with no arms and no legs. Let that sink in for a moment. He was born with no arms and no legs. What you and I could not imagine facing for one month or one day, Nick was facing for his entire life. By the age of 8, the darkness of his circumstances was about to swallow him. “I have no life,” he thought. “I’ll never get married. I’ll never be able to do anything. I’ll never be able to be anything. I have no life.”

Fast forward 25 years. Today, Nick travels around the world giving motivational speeches to children, adults, business leaders, prisoners, and everyone in-between. He’s a college graduate. He drives a car, goes fishing, records music, plays soccer, and swims. And he is also married and the father of a young son.

What happened? What made such a difference? Nick’s physical circumstances did not change. He still has no arms and no legs. What made the difference was the gospel. What made the difference was Jesus Christ.

Through the message of sins forgiven and new life in Jesus, Nick came to see his life very differently. As a redeemed child of God through faith in his Savior, Nick recognized that he had a unique opportunity to encourage others with the good news of Christ. Now his heart overflows in thankfulness. As Nick likes to say, “I’ve never met a thankful person who was bitter. And I’ve never met a bitter person who was thankful.”

Don’t misunderstand. Nick’s life is still difficult. It’s still full of struggle. But seeing his life as Jesus sees his life has made all the difference. That is what makes all the difference for you and me too.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, as I struggle through this world, open my eyes to see my life as you see my life. Empower me to live a life that proclaims 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.

Turn Towards – June 18, 2022

2022/06/18/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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

Turn Towards

Daily Devotion – June 18, 2022

Devotion based on Numbers 6:26

See series: Devotions

Dr. John Gottman and his wife, Dr. Julie Gottman, are researchers who have spent several decades studying marriage relationships. They have drawn many conclusions, and their conclusions make for powerful reading. Here is one conclusion. For years the conventional wisdom was that a way to deepen your marriage relationship was through a big romantic getaway—a trip to Paris or a Caribbean cruise. Not so, say the Gottmans. While a romantic getaway certainly has its place, the Gottmans have learned that a key to deepening a marriage relationship—or any relationship—lies in the countless moments you have, in their words, to “turn towards” each other.

Throughout the week, couples will give each other what the Gottmans call, “bids for connection.” These “bids for connection” almost always seem quite ordinary. For example, a spouse might say, “I had one crazy day today.” That, say the Gottmans, is a “bid for connection.” It is an opportunity for two spouses to “turn towards” each other in that moment and to share the details of what made the day so crazy.

This need for couples to “turn towards” each other is vital. In their exhaustive research, the Gottmans found that happily married couples turned towards each other two-and-one-half times more often than couples whose marriages ended in divorce.

All of which brings us to God’s attitude towards you and me.

The Lord has his face turned toward you. Not sometimes. Not frequently. The Lord has his face turned toward you always. With you in mind, he came to this earth and became one of us and lived a sinless life as our substitute—the life you and I have failed to live. With you in mind, he carried your wasted moments and mine to the cross and washed them all away.

And today, he continues to turn toward you. He turns toward you through every word of the Bible you read and hear, through every message from him you encounter. He turns toward you at this very moment, in this daily devotion. Spend this day in the comfort and assurance of knowing the Lord’s face is turned toward you.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, when my face is downcast because of doubt or despair, remind me that your face is always turned toward 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.

The Holy Spirit Wants to Share Something with You – June 17, 2022

2022/06/17/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 16:12-15

He will glorify me, because he will take from what is mine and declare it to you.
John 16:14

The Holy Spirit Wants to Share Something with You

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – June 17, 2022

Devotion based on John 16:14

See series: Devotions

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

“Give it back! That’s mine! You have your own!”

“Here, you can use my toy. And if you want, I have extra crayons and maybe we can draw a picture together.”

Do you like to share? Or more to the point: Do you look for chances to share?

Sometimes sharing is easy. We like to share experiences, such as watching the fireworks on a summer night, playing a game together, or sharing a picnic basket at the park. Sometimes sharing is easy.

And then there are the other times—times when sharing is difficult. There’s one cookie left, and two kids who want a cookie. A friend is over, and she wants to play with your favorite doll. You’re playing a new game with friends, but one person always wants to be in charge. Sometimes it’s difficult to share, because we feel left out or unimportant, or we feel like someone else won’t take care of our things.

Jesus talks about sharing. But his words today aren’t a command to share—in today’s reading, he tells us that the Holy Spirit shares with him and us! This is what he says: “The Holy Spirit will glorify me, because he will share from what is mine, and share it with you.” Wow!

Jesus says that he shares with the Holy Spirit, and the Holy Spirit shares with us! I like it when someone shares with me, because they show that they care about me. When someone shares with me, I know that I’m not left out.

But…what does the Spirit share with us?

He shares what Jesus has: his life. Jesus laid down his life at the cross and took it up again in the resurrection—and now, in Holy Baptism, the Spirit shares that same life with you!

The Spirit also shares what Jesus earned: righteousness. Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit, and that this Spirit would create faith. Through that faith, Jesus shares his righteousness, his goodness, his perfection with you—so that you are forgiven.

When Jesus shares with you, he shows that he cares about you—and he shows that you’re not left out. Jesus shares with the Spirit, so that the Spirit shares with you, me, and every other Christian. That’s the Holy Spirit’s work—to share with people today exactly what Jesus won for us at Good Friday and Easter. I’m glad God shares!

Closing Prayer:

Thank you, Jesus, for sharing all your work with the Spirit. Thank you for sharing your righteousness with me. Lead me to treasure your Word and Sacraments, where you still share forgiveness today. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

When is it easy to share? Why is it sometimes difficult to share?
What did Jesus share with you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

How did the Holy Spirit share the gift of faith with you?
Why does Jesus want to share with us?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Why is the Spirit’s work of “sharing” important?
Think of the Third Article: “I believe that I cannot, by my own thinking or choosing, believe in Jesus Christ my Lord, or come to him. But the Holy Spirit has called me by the Gospel…” How does the Spirit’s work of “sharing” Jesus happen? Based on how Jesus has promised to share his gifts—try to name the different times when the Holy Spirit is sharing Christ’s gifts in the regular Sunday service.

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

No Excuse – June 17, 2022

2022/06/17/in Devotions, Military Devotions

No Excuse – June 17, 2022

But Moses asked God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and that I should bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” He answered, “I will certainly be with you, and this will be the sign to you that I have sent you: when you bring the people out of Egypt, you will all worship God at this mountain.”
Exodus 3:11,12

Military Devotion – June 17, 2022

Devotion based on Exodus 3:11,12

See series: Military Devotions

The Lord God has a plan for each one of his people. His plan includes missions to carry out and responsibilities to fill. He does not have the exact same plan for everyone. When God issues marching orders, they correspond to the gifts he has given to the individual, and the work that he wants to accomplish through that person.

To the question, “Who am I?” the answer must be given: “A creation of the holy God, assigned to this place and time to carry out his work and bring glory to his name.”

Any other answer is presumptuous—and wrong. We are only kidding ourselves if we think we exist apart from the will of God and are on earth to do only what we choose. Sooner or later that illusion will fade like fog before the bright sun.

This doesn’t mean we don’t have choices. The Lord gives us a great degree of freedom. We might pick a career preference. We may choose to become married—or not.

What we cannot do is choose to ignore his orders. A summary of them is in the Ten Commandments. In addition, specific orders also come to specific people.

Moses was ordered to personally go to Pharaoh to announce that the Israelites would leave Egypt. Moses was assigned the task of being the leader of the exodus. His response was, “Who am I?” He was saying he was not equal to the task. He was offering an excuse.

God countered the excuse with the words: “I certainly will be with you.” He backed up the words of assurance by giving Moses a glimpse of the future. After the successful exodus, Moses would return to this very spot to worship his Lord and God. Moses had no excuse. Neither do we.

One of the greatest missions we can receive is to be a parent, and thus responsible for the protection, nurture, and development of someone’s early life. Both parents, whether their children are naturally born to them or adopted, are charged with the task of being faithful to their assignment. It is not an easy job. It is tempting to say, “Who am I?” and at times offer the excuse that this is beyond our ability. That excuse will not be accepted.

On Father’s Day we especially think of the grave responsibility that is assigned to fathers as head of the family. If our grandfathers thought it was difficult to carry out that assignment years ago, how much more difficult is it in the world of today?

But difficulty is no excuse. Neither are personal inadequacies. As he said to Moses, so our God says to us: “I will certainly be with you.”

We have no excuse. What we do have is a promise!

That promise is backed by blood—holy blood. The Son of God left the glory of heaven to be with us mortals. He did not abandon us to the fate we deserved or the satanic powers of darkness. He will not abandon us when we take on tasks he has assigned to us—as difficult as they may be.

“I will certainly be with you.” he says.

He is not against us. He is not away from us. He is with us.

He is there to bless us—and to bless others through us.

Prayer:
Take my life and let it be consecrated, Lord to thee.
Take my moments and my days; let them flow in ceaseless praise.

Take my will and make it thine; it shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart—it is thine own; it shall be thy royal throne.

Take my love, my Lord, I pour at thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself, and I will be ever, only, all for thee. Amen.
(Christian Worship 695:1,5,6)

Points to ponder:

How might the father’s role be different from the mother’s?
How might one be a blessing to a child without being its parent?
How has the Lord blessed me in special ways by people he provided for me?

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

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

We Glory in Suffering – June 17, 2022

2022/06/17/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
Romans 5:3-5

We Glory in Suffering

Daily Devotion – June 17, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 5:3-5

See series: Devotions

Which sounds better to you? “Avoid suffering at all costs” or “We glory in our sufferings.” Your initial reaction is probably that the first one sounds better. But after you think about it, you realize that even trying as hard as you can to avoid it, you can’t avoid all suffering.

You can eat clean and exercise, but you could still get sick. You can take a defensive driving course, obey the speed limit and rules of the road, but it might not be enough to protect you from the distracted driver. You can be selfless and loving, but it doesn’t mean you won’t face rejection or that your heart won’t be broken. Sometimes it seems like life is a winepress, and you are the grape.

Okay, you can’t avoid suffering, but how do you find glory in it? Christians know the ultimate source of suffering is sin. And they also know that God doesn’t waste that suffering. God uses suffering as a means for drawing believers to himself. When suffering happens, Christians can rely on God’s Word and promises. Faith in God grows, and so the suffering produces perseverance.

When Christians depend on God through tough times, again and again, that produces character. And a Christian who has been tried and tested by the trials and suffering of this world has a confident hope. This world and all its suffering will eventually come to an end.

God poured out his love by sending his Son, Jesus, to suffer the ultimate punishment of sin. Because of that suffering, God sends his Holy Spirit into the hearts of believers to strengthen them through their suffering. And so, yes, you can glory in suffering. God’s using it to draw you closer to him.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for suffering for my sin in my place. Help me to find comfort knowing that my present suffering will come to an end and draw me closer to 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.

Access to God – June 16, 2022

2022/06/16/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we boast in the hope of the glory of God.
Romans 5:1,2

Access to God

Daily Devotion – June 16, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 5:1,2

See series: Devotions

There is a lot of privilege and prestige that comes with free access. Very few people have direct and free access to the world’s most powerful leaders. It’s a privilege granted only to a few. For the average person to gain even one encounter with someone like the President of the United States, it would take a lot of back-channeling and knowing the right people. Most of us don’t have that access.

Which makes the words in the Bible reading today even more amazing. The apostle Paul writes that we have gained access to the almighty and holy God. But it gets even more amazing. God is holy and perfect and just. And we are not. We sin, make mistakes, and mess up. If we stood before God in this sinful condition, we could not survive.

Someone not only needed to give us access to God but also make us ready to stand before God. That person is Jesus. Jesus opened the door to God’s throne room for us because he fixed our relationship with God.

Jesus lived the perfect life we never could, and now he gives us his perfection. Jesus takes our sin and gives us his holiness through faith. Simply by believing that Jesus has done this for us, we can stand in the grace of God.

To stand in God’s grace means we know Jesus has won peace between God and us, and that we will live forever in the presence of God’s glory.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for giving me access to God and for giving me your perfect life. Help me to always make use of the privilege you have given to me to go before God with every care and concern. 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.

How God Brings Good from Bad – June 15, 2022

2022/06/15/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Romans 5:1-5

Not only this, but we also rejoice confidently in our sufferings.
Romans 5:3a

How God Brings Good from Bad

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – June 15, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 5:3a

See series: Devotions

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

“Boy oh boy, I’m glad when I skin my knee!”

“Did you know that I broke my arm last year? I was so happy about it! I mean—I couldn’t go swimming, I couldn’t ride my bike, I had to have surgery…”

We don’t normally say that we’re happy about pain. When we get hurt, we cry. Broken bones are painful, and wearing a cast is difficult. Maybe you’ve lost a beloved family pet, or maybe a friend moved away. While a Band-Aid and a kiss can help the skinned knee feel better, other events in life might hurt our feelings. We even describe sad events as “heartbreaking.”

Then why does Paul say in Romans 5:3 that “we also rejoice confidently in our sufferings”?

No one says “I’m glad that I skinned my knee, lost my dog, and broke my arm”! Who is happy about painful events, sad losses, or heartbreak? No one! These things hurt. Sometimes they hurt our bodies, like a skinned knee or broken bone. Sometimes the hurt is in our emotions, like feeling sad when a friend moves away or a grandparent passes away.

We might even be confused about the reason why these things happen. When I was younger and broke my wrist, I remember telling my dad: “I don’t know why I have to wear a cast. I don’t know the reason why I broke my wrist.” We feel pain, both in our bodies and in our feelings.

But Paul still says: “We also rejoice confidently in our sufferings.” Why?

Because even when we can’t see the reason why things happen—we know that God has a good purpose for the suffering we experience. Pain reminds us that we still live in a world of sin and death; feelings of sadness and loss remind us that in heaven, God promises to wipe every tear from our eyes.

Paul says it like this. And as you listen, notice that Paul doesn’t talk about the reasons why we have suffering. He doesn’t even spend much time talking about the causes of pain. Instead, Paul simply comforts us with God’s goodness through Jesus—and then he says that God wants to use every instance of pain or sadness in order to help us trust in his Word, even when life is still painful.

We have been justified by faith. It means we have peace with God through Jesus. Through faith we stand in God’s presence. We rejoice that we have God’s approval through Jesus.

“Because we have God’s approval through Jesus, we can be joyful even when life is painful and sad. Pain results in patiently living through the pain, which produces strength and hope. And this hope is sure, because God has demonstrated his love by giving us his Holy Spirit.”

Closing Prayer:

Thank you, Jesus, for showing us your love—you carried our sin and won peace with God. Teach me to trust you at all times, especially when life is painful. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

When you’re hurt, what makes you feel better?
Think of a time when you got hurt. How did God help you to recover?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

How can God use pain to be a blessing in our lives?
Why do you think God lets us experience pain in this world?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Respond: “If I’m suffering something, that either proves God can’t help—or that God doesn’t care enough to help.”
Evaluate this statement: Based on what we learn in Romans 5: “I’m sad when I attend a Christian funeral because I miss the person—but at the same time, I’m joyful.” Why?

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

God Puts His Name on His People – June 15, 2022

2022/06/15/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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

God Puts His Name on His People

Daily Devotion – June 15, 2022

Devotion based on Numbers 6:27

See series: Devotions

In the popular Toy Story movies, toys come to life with personalities of their own when humans are not present. The main character, Woody, is a cowboy sheriff doll. When Woody gets anxious, worried, or forgets his identity, he lifts his boot and sees the name “ANDY” scribbled on the underside. It’s the name of his owner. Woody then remembers who he is and his purpose. He finds meaning in his identity.

God wanted to put his name on his people. One of the jobs of the priests of ancient Israel was to speak a blessing using God’s name. It was God’s way of putting his name on the people he loved. It was their reminder of their purpose, meaning, and identity.

God still puts his name on his people. Many churches close their worship services with the words of this ancient blessing. It’s a reminder that God’s name is on the people he loves.

When we hear that blessing, it’s a reminder of who we are. It’s like Woody checking the bottom of his boot and seeing the name “ANDY” scrawled there. With this blessing, God puts his name on his children.

When you feel anxious or afraid, remember God’s name is on you. When you forget who you are, remember that God has claimed you. He’s put his name on you. When your sins weigh you down, remember Jesus has washed them away. He’s made you his child, and God loves to bless his children.

Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for putting your name on me and claiming me as your child. Help me to always find my purpose and identity in the simple fact that you love 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.

God Blesses His People – June 14, 2022

2022/06/14/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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

God Blesses His People

Daily Devotion – June 14, 2022

Devotion based on Numbers 6:24-26

See series: Devotions

A father sat on the edge of his young daughter’s bed. She had been a terror that day—fighting with her sister, talking back to her mother, scribbling on the walls, and refusing to finish her green beans. She had not done anything to earn or deserve any love from anyone that day. Yet, her father still sat near her, smiled at her, and had a full heart of love for her. As she fell asleep, her father leaned over and spoke the blessing recorded in our Bible reading today. Her father was comforted knowing that as much as he loved his daughter, God loved her even more.

The words of this blessing have been spoken to God’s people for over 3,500 years, even though we all act like terrors before God. When we sin, when we go our way instead of God’s way, we are not deserving of a blessing like this. We deserve punishment, not love. But instead of turning his face away from us, God chose to turn his face away from his Son, Jesus, as he hung on the cross. Jesus took our place. He died as our substitute paying the penalty for our sins.

Because of what Jesus did, God now makes his face shine on us. Like we might break out a big, broad smile when we see someone we love, God smiles on us. Instead of turning away from us, God graciously turns to look right at us. His face shines with love and recognition. He knows each of us individually. And to each one of us, he gives the greatest blessing he can give to any sinner; he gives peace.

God gives the peace of knowing that no matter what is going on in our lives, whether we are going through good times or bad times, our relationship is right with God. God gives the peace of knowing that our many sins are forgiven in Jesus.

Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for smiling on me and blessing me, even though I don’t deserve it. 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.

Three in One in Three – Week of June 13, 2022

2022/06/13/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Three in One in Three – Week of June 13, 2022

The LORD bless you and keep you;
The LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
The LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Numbers 6:24-27

ECME Devotion June 13, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

There are so many things in the world that I just don’t understand. I put a tiny, dead-looking seed in dirt and with water, light, and time it becomes a beautiful flower or delicious herb. I tear a piece of paper and it’s forever torn. I get a cut on my hand and in time, it heals, and you would never know it had been cut.

Here’s one that is hard to wrap my head around. God is three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. At the same time, he is one God. Three Gods in one. One God in three. This is referred to as the Trinity. This is, without a doubt, not something we will ever understand this side of heaven. There isn’t any way for our limited human understanding to grasp this. Faith helps us believe it, even without understanding it. And yet, even though we don’t understand it, it’s true. We know that because of what we learn in God’s Word.

This Sunday was Trinity Sunday where we focused on the Triune God, three in one and one in three. Today’s verses reflect all three persons of the Trinity in a blessing that is often used at the close of worship.

The LORD bless you and keep you;
- This references the work of God the Father who lovingly cares and provides for our earthly needs, protection from sin and evil, and keeps us faithful to him.
The LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you;
- God the Son has saved us from sin through the cross and the empty tomb. In him we have God’s grace and forgiveness. Because of Jesus, God looks at us with a deep and profound love with our sins covered through Christ.
The LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.
- Here we see the work of the Holy Spirit. He is the one who works faith in our hearts and causes our faith to grow. His work in us gives us the peace and confidence that only faith in God can provide.

The Trinity—all serving us in their unique roles and serving as one God. What a mystery and what an indescribable blessing! What does this mean for you and for me? God the Father loves us. God the Son saves us. God the Holy Spirit gives us faith. Three in one and one in three. We thank God for faith to believe what we don’t understand and for the blessings we receive from the Triune God!

Prayer

God the Father—bless and keep me. God the Son—make your face shine on me and be gracious to me. God the Holy Spirit—turn your loving face toward me and give me your peace. Amen

For further reflection and prayer:

Triune God, O Be Our Stay
CW ’21 482 CW ‘93 192

Triune God, O be our stay and let us perish never!
Cleanse us from our sins, we pray, and grant us life forever.
Keep us from the evil one; uphold our faith most holy,
And let us trust you solely with humble hearts and lowly.
Let us put God’s armor on, with all true Christians running
Our heav’nly race and shunning the devil’s wiles and cunning.
Amen, amen! This be done; so sing we, “Alleluia!”

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.

What is God like? – June 13, 2022

2022/06/13/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Numbers 6:22-27

In this way they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.
Numbers 6:27

What is God like?

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – June 13, 2022

Devotion based on Numbers 6:27

See series: Devotions

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

Take a moment and think of a favorite person—or perhaps a character from a book or movie. Maybe you would think of a friend, a relative, a neighbor, a classmate. Now that you’ve thought of someone, try to describe that person using only three words.

Can you do it? How would you describe that person?

In our reading from Numbers 6, God describes himself. And as he describes himself, he shows us what he is like—and what he does. But that’s not all! God also shows what he thinks about us, and the reason why!

In this section of Scripture, God promises to bless his people. He brought them out of slavery in Egypt and was leading them through the desert. He was bringing them to the Promised Land of Canaan, where God would finally keep the exact promise he once spoke to Abraham: “I will give this land to your descendants as a possession.”

As God led his people through the wilderness, he wanted the people to learn what he was like. God had already showed that he cared about his people—he rescued them from slavery, he led them through the Red Sea, and he provided food for them each day.

But God wanted to do more than take care of his people. God wanted to tell his people what he was like! That’s why God wanted his priest to bless the people. God wanted to tell the people what he is like, using three simple statements:

The LORD blesses and keeps you.
The LORD smiles at you and is gracious toward you.
The LORD looks on you favorably and gives you peace.

That’s how God described himself—as the One who provides for his people, who shows undeserved love for his people, and who continues to care for his people today.

Each Israelite worship service ended with this promise from God—exactly the same way our worship services end on Sunday mornings. With those same words, God still describes himself as the One who provides for our needs, the One who took away our sin, and the One who still gives us peace.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for keeping all the promises you made to Abraham—especially the promise to bless all nations through Jesus. Help me rejoice that you still describe yourself in Scripture and place your name on us today. 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

In the words of the blessing, remember at least one thing God promised to do for you.
How does God care for you today?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why is it important to know that God kept his promises to Abraham?
When do we normally hear this blessing from Numbers 6? Why do we use the blessing at that time?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Apart from the Bible, where can any person learn about God? What do they learn?
Why is it important for God to describe himself in words when we can see evidence of God in the world around us?

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 Spirit of Truth – June 13, 2022

2022/06/13/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.
John 16:13

The Spirit of Truth

Daily Devotion – June 13, 2022

Devotion based on John 16:13

See series: Devotions

Try teaching a preschool student some high school geometry. Unless you’re working with a very rare math prodigy, it’s not going to go very well. It’s hard enough to teach a three-year-old the names of the shapes, let alone how to find the angles of an isosceles triangle. You start with the basics.

When Jesus spoke these words to his disciples, it was the night before his crucifixion. Jesus had been training his disciples for three years. They had learned a lot about the kingdom of God and the mission of Jesus. Yet there was still so much that they did not know.

Instead of trying to cram all his teachings into their brains in one night like a procrastinating college student the night before an exam, Jesus promised them the gift of the Holy Spirit who would teach them truths they had yet to learn.

The disciples received that gift on the Day of Pentecost after Jesus went into heaven. The Holy Spirit opened their hearts and minds to God’s Word so that they could share that Word with others.

Jesus still sends the Holy Spirit. The Spirit works through God’s Word. When people join a church, they often take a Bible information class. They learn the basics of Christianity from the Bible before progressing in their knowledge of the truth. Growing in that truth takes time.

So, take the time. Take the time to read and study the Bible. You have Jesus’ promise that, when you do, he will send the Holy Spirit to help you grow in your knowledge of the truth.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to reveal the truth. Help me to want to always keep learning more about 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.

Transformed – teen devotion – June 12, 2022

2022/06/12/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: Facial expressions and attention from those we love communicate powerfully to us. God communicates something to us when he turns his face toward us.

The Lord said to Moses, “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: “‘“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.”’
Numbers 6:22-26

Blessed by a Look

You never forget how it feels. It is something that you just can’t forget. You are so excited to see someone near and dear to you, so you run into the room, ready to be received with open arms and a bright smile, ready to be greeted with joy and gladness. You are so excited to see them, but as soon as you walk into the room, they look the other way and walk out. Suddenly you feel alienated and alone. It’s like a death sentence.

As you retreat to your corner, you wonder why they treated you that way. Was it something you said? Was it something you did? Why would they turn their back on you and give you such a cold shoulder?

We forget how powerful a look is until such a look is given to us. You might remember that from your younger days. You might even still experience that. A sideways glance from a peer. A glare from a mother. A shaking head from your father. These looks speak volumes to you about your standing with them. A look communicates something to us.

But it’s not just the negative looks. Smiles and attention speak to our hearts too. A warm glance. A bright smile. All the attention in your direction says something to us too. It says we’re loved. It says we’re welcomed. Such a look says, “You belong and I’m glad you’re here.”

The truth is God should look away. We’re too gross to look at. The stench of our sin and the ugliness of our rebellion should turn his face away from us. He should look away. And by that he would say to us, “You don’t belong here. Away from me!” That’s what kings in the days of the Old Testament were saying when they refused to turn their gaze toward someone who came into their throne room.

But instead of looking away, God does something else. He turns his face toward us. He looks at you. You! His attention, his energy, his care, and his love all beaming in your direction. With his look he welcomes you to come close. With this look he tells you that you belong. With this look he tells you that all your life is under his care and direction, for your eternal blessing.

Prayer: Dear Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, you should look away. But instead, you turn your face toward me and give your full attention to my care and my salvation. Thank you. Help me to live each day knowing that your face beams on me and is attentive to me. 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.

Justified – June 12, 2022

2022/06/12/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

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

Justified

Daily Devotion – June 12, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 5:1

See series: Devotions

Consider how the word justify is used in the following statement: “I just don’t know how we can justify the cost of a brand-new football stadium.” This example shows us how the word justify is used nowadays. To justify means to “give a good reason for, rationalize or defend.”

However, God uses the word justify in another way. In Romans 5:1, justify means “to declare not guilty. It’s like a judge who looks at a guilty criminal and says to him, “You’re free to go!” That’s a miscarriage of justice, isn’t it? It seems so until we realize that God, the Father, took our every attempt to rationalize our wrongdoing and every lame excuse for sin and stacked them all on the broad shoulders of Jesus. Jesus took that whole mess and paid for it on the cross. In its place, he gives us innocence and peace with him, and, just as importantly, he gives us the faith to believe it.

Through that faith, there is peace between you and God. Whether you die today or years from now, the gates of heaven are open for you. Whether you feel emotionally at peace or not, whether your body is strong or falling apart, whether you are ill or healthy, God still declares you innocent through Jesus. And he still maintains that peace between himself and you by faith.

Today, whether you feel peace in response to these truths or not, believe this, “Since you have been justified through faith, you have peace with God through your Lord Jesus Christ.”

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, when I am troubled by my sin and wonder how I might appear in you sight, direct me to the cross of my Savior, Jesus, where the full price of my sin was paid. Fill my heart with the peace of forgiveness. Assure me by faith in Christ that you declare me to be holy in your sight and an heir of 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.

Thanking God for Dads – Women’s Devotion

2022/06/11/in Devotions, Womens Devotions

Thanking God for Dads – Women’s Devotion

Dads, we thank God for you. We celebrate your godly leadership. We acknowledge the weighty responsibility you carry. We bring our petitions to the Lord on your behalf. We support you, we respect you, and we cherish you.

We thank God that you keep fighting. You realize that this is not peacetime, and the battle is fierce. In a world that seeks to destroy not only godly fatherhood, but even the very concept of manhood, you stand up as the man God made you to be. You strive to fulfill your calling as head of the household. Daily you resist the pressures of our culture and the temptations of the Devil. Rather than chase after every “opportunity” for yourself and your children, you spend time in God’s Word and with fellow believers. Rather than use God’s loaned resources on earthly treasures, you store up heavenly riches for your family. Rather than conform to society’s norms, you teach your children God’s code of conduct, and guide them in following it no matter the consequences. You do battle each day, under the leadership and protection of your own Head, the ultimate Warrior, Jesus Christ.

We thank God that you keep loving. You understand the need to show mercy and to sacrifice yourself. You convey your love through the words you speak to your children, and the time you spend with them. You communicate to your family, “You are valuable to me.” Your children know tenderness. They know what it means to be forgiven. As you live out your calling, you remember the mercy that God has shown you. Your self-sacrifice is modeled after Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice of a life lived perfectly in your place, and laid down at the cross for you. His sacrifice frees you from a guilty conscience over failures as a father. Your Heavenly Father has no memory of them, and He treats you accordingly. You embrace as your example His merciful love toward you, as you teach your family that they, too, have received mercy through Jesus.

Dads, we rejoice that God has called you to fatherhood. We praise God that you are carrying out this calling by His power. Whether you are our own fathers, our godly grandpas, our sons now raising the next generation, or brothers not by blood but by the Holy Spirit, we thank God for you.

Written by Mollie Schweppe

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God’s Desire for Us – June 11, 2022

2022/06/11/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

The LORD said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them. Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.”
Genesis 11:6,7

God’s Desire for Us

Daily Devotion – June 11, 2022

Devotion based on Genesis 11:6,7

See series: Devotions

What is God’s desire for us? What does he want for you and me?

God’s will is simple: God wants us to be with him for time and eternity. Because of that, God stepped into human history in a big way. Humanity was on the fast pace to completely rejecting God and his love. They were all about “making a name for themselves.” They were in rebellion against God, refusing to spread out around the world as God had instructed.

So, in amazing grace God confused their languages. Amazing grace? Yes!

Did you notice the name used for God? It’s “LORD.” With this name for God, we are reminded that our God is faithful; he is faithful to his justice but also faithful to his love. And so, in amazing grace, the Lord confused their languages. Why?

Because ultimately, that would result in the circumstances for the most people possible to turn their attention to him, believe in the Lord and end up in heaven.

And that’s God’s desire for us. He desires that as many of us as possible end up in heaven. And thank God; he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get us there!

Prayer:
Oh Savior, work in my life in whatever way necessary so that through your Word, I stay on the way to heaven. 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.

Your Advocate – June 10, 2022

2022/06/10/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: John 14:23-27

[Jesus said], “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
John 14:26-27

Your Advocate

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Family Devotion – June 10, 2022

Devotion based on John 14:26-27

See series: Devotions

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

The title and today’s reading have a word that you might not know—advocate. An advocate is someone who speaks up for you, defends you, watches out for you, makes sure you’re okay. Your family, especially your mom, dad, grandma, or grandpa would likely be great at sticking up for you. Friends, brothers and sisters, your teachers, or perhaps a neighbor who knows you well could be great advocates.

These verses talk about the best advocate of all—the Holy Spirit. Jesus was talking to his disciples shortly before he was going to suffer on the cross. He spent a lot of time teaching the disciples so that they would be ready to go out and tell others about him. There was a lot to tell them, and they had a lot to learn. Jesus told them that he wouldn’t be with them in person. This might have made them afraid or worried. Jesus told them so many things in these two verses. He’s telling us those things, too.

The Holy Spirit would teach them what they need to know and remind them of everything Jesus had been teaching them. (Phew! They didn’t have to know all the answers!)
They didn’t need to worry because Jesus is their peace. There’s peace that you find sitting in a quiet spot after a very busy day. That’s not the peace he spoke about. The best peace of all is knowing that sins are forgiven, and you are God’s child.
They (and we) didn’t need to be afraid. Jesus wouldn’t be walking around with them like he had the past couple of years, but he’d still be with them and he’s always with us.

Like the disciples, there is a lot going on all around us. It is easy to get overwhelmed or worried. Jesus reminds us that we don’t need to be afraid. He promises us that the Holy Spirit will teach us too. He teaches us when we read the Bible or listen to a Bible story or devotion. He’s our advocate who teaches us and watches over us and helps us stay close to God. Best of all, he gives us the best peace of all—his peace. Because Jesus is our peace!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Holy Spirit, thank you for working faith in our hearts and helping us to grow in faith. Thank you for the peace we have knowing we are your dearly loved children. In 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

Today you heard the word “advocate.” What does it mean?
The Holy Spirit is your greatest advocate. As you learn about God, he makes your faith grow. What prayer could you say to ask the Holy Spirit to help you grow in faith?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Share a place that is so peaceful it’s your favorite place. What is it about that place that makes it so peaceful?
There have been a lot of troubling things on the news lately. How does the peace Jesus gives help you when worry or fear creeps in?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Discuss the something that you’ve been worried about this week. How does Bible time with your family help you?
Family can help. Friends can help. Teachers and others can help. How is God’s help different? How does this help you grasp the peace that God gives you?

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

My Hope – June 10, 2022

2022/06/10/in Devotions, Military Devotions

My Hope – June 10, 2022

Show me your ways, O LORD, teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
Psalm 25:4,5

Military Devotion – June 10, 2022

Devotion based on Psalm 25:4,5

See series: Military Devotions

Life without hope would be a miserable existence.

Yet, there may be times when we feel exactly like that. One day, we may feel optimistic. But that feeling doesn’t last. The very next day, the seesaw of emotions may put us down instead of up.

The encouragement to “Cheer up!” contains no power to make it so.

We cannot flip a mental switch to force us to see that the glass is half-full instead of half-empty. If we could, we would. We resent being told we have that ability. It only makes our hopelessness more hopeless.

Scripture talks about a sure, firm hope. Does that mean if we don’t feel that way something is wrong with us? Is it perhaps weak faith?

David, the shepherd-king, shows his struggle with emotions in the words of the psalms he was led to write. Fear often stalks confidence. Doubt is mixed with conviction. Desperation sometimes sits right next to hope.

Yet, Scripture shows that God-based hope is more than a feeling. It is the anchor to our life that is safely held in place by the Eternal Almighty.

The validity of hope is determined by what the hope is anchored in.

“My hope,” declared David to his Savior God, “is in you all day long.”

That makes all the difference in the world. He wasn’t counting on his reputation—not even after he became famous for killing Goliath.

He did not place his hope in himself, which is a common mistake.

No matter how good he was, he would never have been good enough to expect that he could overcome the challenges in life unscathed.

He knew his life was not his own. It was given to him by his Creator and guided by his hand.

David would not have sung, “I did it my way!”

“Show me your ways, O Lord!” was his prayer. “Teach me your paths.”

Of all the things we might hope for—and that list is long—none compares to the hope that the path we walk in this life will lead us to a life filled only with good things.

Considering it from another perspective, we hope against hope that death will not deposit us into the pit of torment the Lord God has prepared for those who defy him.

It’s tempting to lay out our own path in life. Usually, that one twists and turns as it tries to bring us to places that satisfy our desire for pleasure and avoids facing the reality of what God expects of us.

The path to victory over death and endless joy has no twists nor turns. It leads in a straight line to Jesus.

“I have come that they may have life” the Redeemer declared.

Ancient Job knew this long before Jesus was born. “I know that my Redeemer lives,” he wrote. “And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God.”

His reaction? “How my heart yearns within me!” (Job 19:26,27).

Hope built upon the Lord who redeemed us with his holy blood is a solid, never-changing, never-failing hope.

This is my hope.

I hope it is your hope.

Prayer:
My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness;
I dare to make no other claim but wholly lean on Jesus’ name.
On Christ, the solid rock, I stand;
All other ground is sinking sand. Amen.
(Christian Worship 563:1)

Points to ponder:

How is faith more than a feeling?
How might my self-confidence synchronize with my faith in God?
How does Satan keep pointing me away from Jesus as the sure hope in life and death?

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 Spirit Brings Peace – June 10, 2022

2022/06/10/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus said] “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
John 14:26,27

The Spirit Brings Peace

Daily Devotion – June 10, 2022

Devotion based on John 14:26,27

See series: Devotions

Are you looking for peace? We want there to be peace in the world, but then war is waged. We want to live peaceful and quite lives, but riots break out in the streets. We want there to be peace in our relationships, but sharp words stir things up. At the end of a long day, we just want some peace and quiet, but we come home to more work—a stack of laundry, something to fix, something to clean.

What is it that troubles you? What is happening in your life, internally or externally, that robs you of a sense of peace? Externally a war of evil is being waged. Internally, we wrestle sinful desires or guilt. We just want peace. We just need peace!

In this world the concept of peace is so elusive, and it always will be. The peace that our world dangles in front of us is just a concept. It’s an ideal that we’re striving for but never seem to find it.

The peace that Jesus gives is not merely a state of mind. It’s something that God declares. You have peace with God through the forgiveness of sins through Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. God declares that you are at peace with him. You have the peace of a complete salvation—there is nothing left for you to do. Rest in the peace of Jesus and his love!

As Jesus was about to leave this world, he gave his disciples an out-of-this-world peace! He promised to send his Spirit to remind and to teach. Jesus hasn’t left us in this world to find our own peace. He gives us his Spirit to remind and teach by his Word that even as the battles rage internally and externally, we have peace. Peace with God. An out-of-this-world peace in Jesus and by his Spirit.

Prayer:
Come, Holy Spirit, and continually bring eternal, out-of-this-world peace in Jesus. 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 Spirit Unites Us with Each Other – June 9. 2022

2022/06/09/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

“How is it that each of us hears them in our native language? Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!”
Acts 2:8-11

The Spirit Unites Us with Each Other

Daily Devotion – June 9, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 2:8-11

See series: Devotions

He recently moved from overseas with his family. Everything was new. The language was not his native tongue. The food was not what he was accustomed to. He had to drive on new roads with new rules. Working and interacting in a new culture was not always easy.

Imagine the relief when he came across something familiar. Christianity was not predominate in his home country, but this man was a Christian. When he came to a Christian church in a country and culture not his own, he walked into something familiar. As his voice joined with others in praise to God, he and his family suddenly didn’t feel like strangers anymore.

After the worship service, he ran up to the pastor, service folder in hand. He exclaimed, “Pastor! In my country, in my language we say the same thing!” He pointed to prayers, lessons, words spoken in unison that confessed the triune God.

That is the power of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit works through the Word to unite us with God. In doing so, he also unites us with each other. No matter where you are from or what language you speak, together we hear and read the same powerful Word of God translated into our own native tongues.

When we read and study the Bible, or when we walk through those church doors, we’re stepping into a place where we find unity amid diversity. The Spirit takes us to a place that transcends time, language, and culture. With our unique backgrounds and cultures and languages we hear the same wonders of God proclaimed—the wonderful news of Jesus Christ, the Savior of the nations. Then our varied voices blend into one as we praise and proclaim one Lord and Savior. You’re no longer a stranger in a new place. You belong here now.

Prayer:
Come, Holy Spirit, unite and strengthen my bond with all believers everywhere by the power of your Word! 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.

From One Language to Many – Proclamation – June 8, 2022

2022/06/08/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Acts 2:1-21

Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.
Acts 2:21

From One Language to Many – Proclamation

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Family Devotion – June 8, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 2:21

See series: Devotions

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

The Holman family moved from America to a far away country called the Czech Republic. They loved it except for one thing—they didn’t speak the Czech language. They worked hard to learn words like “Hello” (Dobrý den!), and “How are you?” (Jak se máš?), and name items in the grocery store or restaurant. But when they would ask how someone was, they didn’t understand the answer. How frustrating when you want to tell people something or understand what they are saying!

Today’s Bible reading is a special story about the Day of Pentecost. When Jesus went to heaven, he told his disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit to come to them. They did what Jesus asked. While there, a huge feast was taking place. The feast was called Pentecost or the Feast of Harvest. Jews from all over the world came to Jerusalem for this feast. Each person spoke the language of their country. God had a special plan for the feast that year. The disciples were all together, and some amazing things happened—there was a sound like a wind and small flames of fire came to rest on each of them. The Holy Spirit gave them the ability to suddenly speak in other languages. They didn’t have to learn the language or practice it. They just knew it. People study for years to be able to speak another language. The disciples could do it immediately. That’s amazing! It was part of God’s plan!

What did they do? They did what Jesus had told them to do. They went out into the streets among the many people from all over the world and started speaking in people’s languages, telling them about Jesus. In a previous devotion this week, God made the people speak a different language to confuse them and spread them out. In today’s story, God gave the disciples the gift of speaking another language so they could tell others about him. Their message was that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. The disciples wanted to be sure that as many people as possible heard that message.

You and I can be like the disciples. We can tell others the same message, and we don’t need to learn a new language to do so! Who do you know that needs to hear this message—God loves you and wants you to be saved? In any language, this is the most important message to tell, and you get to share it!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, we want everyone we know to know about you and have faith in you. We know that faith comes only from the Holy Spirit, but that you’ve told us that we should tell others about you. Help us to be excited to tell those we know about you. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

If you had a chance to play with someone who spoke a different language, what would be fun about that and what might be hard?
Most, or maybe even all, of the people you know speak the same language as you, but maybe they know very little about Jesus. What would you want to share with them about Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

The disciples did what Jesus said by going to Jerusalem and staying together until the Holy Spirit would come. Describe what you think their reaction may have been when they heard the wind, saw the fire, and were suddenly able to speak another language!
You don’t have to learn a new language to tell others about your Savior, and yet, it can be hard sometimes. Why makes it hard for you? What would help for the next time?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Jerusalem was filled with visitors from all over the world when the disciples were able to speak different languages. Now imagine that was you. Describe your reaction and why you would walk into the streets and start talking to others.
It can be hard to bring up your faith with others. Think of one possible consequence if you don’t speak up. What encouragement does God give you to talk to someone else about your faith?

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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 Spirit Unites Us With God – June 8, 2022

2022/06/08/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

‘In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. . . . And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.’
Acts 2:17,21

The Spirit Unites Us With God

Daily Devotion – June 8, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 2:17,21

See series: Devotions

“Daddy? Mommy? Help me!” The little girl calls out frantically. She was downstairs playing by herself when she tripped. It hurts. She feels all alone. For a moment, she doesn’t know where her parents are. Can they hear her? Will they come to help her? The cries intensify.

But as soon as he heard his daughter cry for help, Daddy leaped up from his desk and ran downstairs to help his daughter. All she needed was to be picked up, comforted, and to know that she was not alone as she rested in the arms of her father.

“Lord, help me!” We are down here, and God is in heaven. We trip and stumble. We experience something that hurts or something that terrifies us. At times, we may feel all alone. For a moment, we may wonder, “Can God hear me? Will he come to help me?” The cries intensify.

But before you ever cried out to the Lord, he has come to help you. First, he sent his Son to rescue you from the punishment of sin. By his dying and rising from the dead, Jesus has saved you eternally. Because of Jesus, you can call the God who made you “Father,” and he listens.

God also sent his Spirit, the Comforter. God is not far away. He’s closer than we might often realize. He sends his Spirit to dwell in you and in the heart of every believer. The Spirit unites us with the triune God—the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. We are not left hanging in this life wondering if God still listens, cares, and will help us. He has come to help and comfort.

The Lord will come again to rescue you one last time from this world of troubles. Until then, he has given you his Spirit to comfort and assure you that you are not alone—you rest in the tender love and care of your God and your Father!

Prayer:
Come, Holy Spirt, and comfort me when I am hurt, strengthen me when I am weak, and keep me in your tender care. 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 Spirit Breaks Barriers – June 7, 2022

2022/06/07/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues [languages] as the Spirit enabled them.
Acts 2:4

The Spirit Breaks Barriers

Daily Devotion – June 7, 2022

Devotion based on Acts 2:4

See series: Devotions

Have you ever experienced a language barrier? I was traveling in a foreign country and found myself at a loss for words. I knew what I wanted to say. I even tried as I pulled up the language learning app on my phone. But either a poor translation or mispronounced words made the native speaker laugh instead of understand. The barrier still remained.

Those language barriers have existed ever since tower of Babel. Early in human history, recorded in the Bible, everyone spoke a common language. However, when they united around a sinful purpose, God said, “Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other” (Genesis 11:7). And the barrier has remained to this day.

Those language barriers are also a reminder of a bigger barrier that once stood between us and God. That barrier didn’t cause embarrassment, or confusion. Sin once separated us from God eternally.

But the Spirit of God breaks those barriers. He broke the barrier of language on Pentecost, 50 days after Jesus’ resurrection, when he sent the Holy Sprit. All of a sudden, the language barriers were torn down by the Spirit. Jesus’ disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit, and they were able to speak in other languages. Travels from all over the world heard the good news of Jesus in their very own language. And the barrier came down.

By the written Word of God, which has been translated into your language and many more, the Spirit is at work to tear down that barrier that once stood between you and God. By the good news of Jesus that you hear and read in your own language the Spirit creates and strengthens faith. In your very own language, you hear the good news that no barrier remains between you and God because Jesus paid your price. Jesus was crucified for you! Jesus was raised to life for you! Sin no longer separates you from God. It has been taken away.

Prayer:
Come, Holy Spirit, and tear down the barriers I have created. By your Word, strengthen my faith to know the love of God and complete forgiveness I have through Christ. 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.

WELS CENTER FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY

Read: 2 Timothy 1:3-10

Feel Safe in the Midst of a Storm

Closing Prayer:

God-given Gifts

From Generation to Generation

Read: Isaiah 43:8-13

It’s True! You are Different

Closing Prayer:

The Power of God’s Words – Week of June 20, 2022

ECME Devotion June 20, 2022

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Keep Praying

The Difference

Turn Towards

Read: John 16:12-15

The Holy Spirit Wants to Share Something with You

Closing Prayer:

No Excuse – June 17, 2022

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We Glory in Suffering

Access to God

Read: Romans 5:1-5

How God Brings Good from Bad

Closing Prayer:

God Puts His Name on His People

God Blesses His People

Three in One in Three – Week of June 13, 2022

ECME Devotion June 13, 2022

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Read: Numbers 6:22-27

What is God like?

Closing Prayer:

The Spirit of Truth

Justified

Thanking God for Dads – Women’s Devotion

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God’s Desire for Us

Read: John 14:23-27

Your Advocate

Closing Prayer:

My Hope – June 10, 2022

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The Spirit Brings Peace

The Spirit Unites Us with Each Other

Read: Acts 2:1-21

From One Language to Many – Proclamation

Closing Prayer:

The Spirit Unites Us With God

The Spirit Breaks Barriers

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