Devotions

Someone Who Likes To Be Praised – Family Devotion – March 30, 2022

2022/03/30/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Isaiah 12:1-6

Give praise to the LORD, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done, and proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing to the LORD, for he has done glorious things; let this be known to all the world.
Isaiah 12:4,5

Someone Who Likes To Be Praised

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Family Devotion – March 30, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 12:4,5

See series: Devotions

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

“You did a fantastic job! I’m so proud of you! You worked really hard, and your hard work is paying off!” It’s fun to be praised, isn’t it? It’s encouraging when you do something well and other people notice. It makes you feel good to have your efforts recognized.

We aren’t the only ones who like to be praised. In today’s verses, Isaiah tells the people of Israel that God also likes to be praised. Isaiah encourages them to give praise to the LORD and proclaim his name, to tell others how great God is. Now it’s your turn. Here are three questions:

Why do we give praise to the LORD? Isaiah answers: “for he has done glorious things”—lots of amazing things, big and small. God the Father gave us everything that we need for our life and protects us from evil every day. God the Son became a human being, lived a perfect life and took away our sins. God the Holy Spirit brings the words of the Bible into our hearts so we can believe.

How do we give praise to the LORD? Isaiah answers that question too: “make known among the nations what he has done.” When we recognize everything we have comes from God and when we share the good news of Jesus with others, we give praise to the LORD!

When do we give praise to the LORD? To answer this question, we need to know a little more about Isaiah. He had to speak some very harsh words to his people because they needed to repent. He knew that they would face some tough times because of it. But even in the midst of these hard times, the people of Israel were still called upon to praise the LORD.

The same is true for us today. No matter whether you feel happy or you’re sad and dealing with something very hard, you still have reason to praise the LORD—to thank God for everything he’s done for you. If you’ve already forgotten, go back to the “why” question. Then praise him at home with your family, at school with your friends, and at church with your brothers and sisters in Christ. Praise him for loving you and adopting you as his child. Praise him for all the glorious things he’s done!

Closing Prayer:

LORD, we have so many reasons to praise you! Help us to praise you in every situation, and give us the courage to tell others of the glorious things you have done. 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

We all like to be praised. According to Isaiah, who else likes to be praised?
When should we give praise to the LORD?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What does it mean to praise God’s name?
Name one specific thing you can do tomorrow to praise God.

Questions for Middle School and Above

TRUE or FALSE: Praising God is best when things are going really well in life.
Think of one thing for which you can you praise each person of the Triune God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

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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.

Mind Over Matter – March 30, 2022

2022/03/30/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.
Romans 8:5,6

Mind Over Matter

Daily Devotion – March 30, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 8:5,6

See series: Devotions

When we face something particularly challenging—maybe even something painful—it may be that someone alongside us will offer us some encouragement by saying, “Come on, now. It’s mind over matter.” What they mean, of course, is that we need to block out the thoughts of any immediate difficulty or pain that we might experience. Instead, we need to set our sights on the reward we will receive when it’s all said and done. It’s a matter of focus, mind over matter.

But, of course, the opposite is also true. If we set our sights on failure and mediocrity, that’s what we’ll end up achieving; maybe even worse than that.

The truth is, it’s natural for sinful human beings like us to choose the path of least resistance, to take the easier way, the path that seems less painful. And that’s especially true when it comes to our spiritual lives. Instead of setting our sights on the unseen, eternal blessings that our Father has promised to give us in heaven, we jump at the chance of securing as many creature comforts in this world as we possibly can right now.

St. Paul describes this as setting our minds “on what the flesh desires.” And he doesn’t pull any punches when he tells us what the result will be: “The mind governed by the flesh is death.” But because of our broken hearts and sinful minds, we’re doomed. Sinners can’t help themselves.

But Jesus can help us and does. Not only does Jesus assure us of our perfect forgiveness and willingly crush our eternal condemnation forever. But he gives us the gift of his Spirit, who renews our minds and empowers us to set our hearts on things above, not on earthly things. And, Paul explains, “the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”

The Christian life is mind over matter. And in Jesus, our mind in the Spirit wins.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, empower me to live according to your Spirit and set my sights on you. Amen.

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

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

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

The Perfect Sinner – March 29, 2022

2022/03/29/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

For what the law was powerless to do because it was weakened by the flesh, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering. And so he condemned sin in the flesh, in order that the righteous requirement of the law might be fully met in us, who do not live according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.
Romans 8:3,4

The Perfect Sinner

Daily Devotion – March 29, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 8:3,4

See series: Devotions

When Christians describe Jesus as perfect, they believe that he never did anything wrong. Not once.

That’s hard to believe, especially when you recall that Jesus was a human being just like we are and faced daily temptation just like we do. But the Bible is clear. Jesus was “tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin” (Hebrews 4:15).

But for all his moral perfection, Jesus wouldn’t be our perfect Savior if he hadn’t been willing to suffer as our substitute. So our heavenly Father made Jesus “perfect through what he suffered” (Hebrews 2:10). What does that mean? It means he needed to endure the life of a sinner even though he wasn’t one. But he didn’t just become another sinner. He became the world’s greatest sinner, yes, the perfect sinner!

That’s what St. Paul is describing in Romans chapter 8. He begins by teaching us why we are unable to be perfect in God’s eyes. Try as we might to follow God’s law, it is powerless to save us “because it was weakened by (our sinful) flesh.” While God’s law is perfect, we are imperfect. Our following it perfectly is hopeless.

But what we are unable to do, “God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh to be a sin offering.” Elsewhere, Paul describes it this way: “God made [Jesus] who had no sin to be sin for us” (2 Corinthians 5:21). Though Jesus was sinless, God laid our sin and the sins of the world on him. Then he condemned Jesus, the perfect sinner, in our place. Our perfect substitute.

So, Jesus hasn’t simply swept away our condemnation. He’s crushed it once and for all. The slate is clean for you, for me, for everyone. Our sin is forgiven and forgotten forever.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, thank you for becoming my sin so that I might be given your perfection. 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.

Christmas in…. March? – Week of March 28, 2022

2022/03/28/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Christmas in…. March? – Week of March 28, 2022

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit of life set me free from the law of sin and death. For what the law was powerless to do in that it was weakened by the sinful nature, God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering.
Romans 8:1-3a

ECME Devotion March 28, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

Can you believe that Christmas was already three months ago? As a teacher, it’s fun to receive Christmas gifts from your students. They walk into the classroom beaming with pride with their perfectly wrapped and well thought out presents that are just for you.

By now, the gift card to your favorite coffee shop has probably run out. The cute houseplant you had high hopes for may have already died. The festive mugs have most likely been shoved to the back of the shelf that has been deemed the “cute teacher mug shelf”.

Until next year, teacher gifts!

Have you ever done the same thing with Baby Jesus? Maybe you’ve “spent” all your Christmas joy and it’s long run out. Perhaps you’re waiting until next December to deeply ponder again the precious gift that was given to you at the manger.

This passage in Romans gives us a pretty incredible reason to not leave Christmas in December. Paul reminds us that our sinful nature has made us “powerless” when it comes to our salvation. Conversely, he states “there is no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” So how then do we gain access to eternal life?

The answer is baby Jesus in the manger. What we couldn’t do “God did by sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful man to be a sin offering.”

This time of year can feel like a grind. Just maybe you have been too busy striving and hustling since school started back in January that you haven’t taken a moment to remember the one gift that hasn’t run out- your Savior.

The devil can tempt us to think that our striving will carry us to our worth, our redemption, our freedom. Of course, our work is not in vain. It matters. It brings glory to God. And yet, but when it comes to salvation, the most important work has already been done.

The good news of Christmas changes our day-to-day life even when it’s not “the most wonderful time of the year.” We needed a Savior and God sent us one. Not any old gift, but a perfectly wrapped and well thought out present that is specifically for you.

Don’t wait until next December, brothers and sisters. Let the gift of a Savior live in every day of the rest of your life. Be filled with glad tidings of joy that the Christ child has set us “free from the law of sin and death.” This gift is for you today and always.

Prayer

So bring him incense, gold, and myrrh; Come, peasant, king, to own him.
The King of kings salvation brings; Let loving hearts enthrone him.
Raise, raise the song on high; The virgin sings her lullaby.
Joy, joy, for Christ is born, The babe, the Son of Mary!

CW21 344:3/ CW93 67:3

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.

Lost and Found – Family Devotion – March 28, 2022

2022/03/28/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 15:11-32

But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him… “For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.”
Luke 15:20,24

Lost and Found

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Family Devotion – March 28, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 15:20,24

See series: Devotions

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

What’s your favorite thing? A blanket or stuffed animal that you always sleep with? A toy or game that’s always fun to play with? A book or movie that you always love to read or watch, no matter how many times you’ve read or watched it before? Imagine how sad you would be if you lost it, if you couldn’t find it anywhere in your room or your house.

In today’s reading, Jesus tells a story about a man who lost something far more valuable than a stuffed animal or a toy or a book. This man lost his son, and he was very sad.

How could a father lose his son? It wasn’t the father’s fault. It was the son’s. The son demanded money from his father, money that was meant to be given him in the future. After his father gave it to him, the son left for a faraway country. He spent all his father’s money and had nothing left—not even enough to buy something to eat. The son realized his mistake. He came home, hoping that his father would give him a job as a servant.

Instead, the father welcomed his son home with open arms. He was so happy that he found the son he thought he’d lost. He forgave everything the son had done wrong because he never stopped loving him.

Just like in Jesus’ story, God the Father lost something too. And just like in the story, it wasn’t God’s fault—it was ours. Can you see yourself in the lost son? Have you gotten a little wild and been told to calm down? What happened when you didn’t listen? How sad God the Father is when we run away and don’t listen to him!

But through it all, he never stops loving us. In a couple weeks, we will be reminded why. At the cross, it’s the Father’s Son, his one and only Son, who suffers and dies for sons and daughters who wander off and get lost. Because of his love for us, God forgives and welcomes us back home with open arms. He sends his Holy Spirit to work faith in our hearts and make us his sons and daughters. And one day, when we are finally in our heavenly home, we will see our Father face-to-face.

Until that day, remember how much God loves you. Remember that God always welcomes you back home. Remember that by faith, you are God’s child—and nothing separates you from the love of your heavenly Father.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for making me your favorite thing, for always loving welcoming me back home. Keep me close to you until I see you face-to-face in heaven. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

What did the father in Jesus’ story lose?
What did the father do when his son came back home?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why did the father in Jesus’ parable welcome his son back home with open arms?
Discuss a time in which you were running from God. What (or who) helped you to return?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Have you ever found that if you have some money, everyone wants to be your friend until the money is gone? Discuss what true friendship looks like.
When the son returned, the father could have greeted him with “I told you so.” What does the father do to make the son feel at home? What has God done to make us feel at home?

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Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Pardoned – March 28, 2022

2022/03/28/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death.
Roman 8:1,2

Pardoned

Daily Devotion – March 28, 2022

Devotion based on Roman 8:1,2

See series: Devotions

One of the greatest powers bestowed on the President of the United States is the near-absolute authority to pardon people who have been convicted of a federal crime. That power even extends over lawbreakers who have been sentenced to death because of their misdeeds. The second article of the Constitution of the United States grants this power to the president, except in cases where federal officers have been impeached and removed from office. Beyond that one exception, the president has the unconditional power to pardon whomever he pleases.

It has long been the custom in the Christian church to illustrate the eternal truths of the Bible with every day, earthly examples, with which we are familiar. So, when a Christian wants to illustrate God’s power to forgive sin, it might be tempting to compare it to a presidential pardon.

But when it comes to illustrating God’s power to forgive, all analogies limp. And that’s true of this one, too, because when God forgives our sin, we are more than pardoned. When a person is pardoned, the crime still exists. The president declares no person will pay for the crime and that crime simply remains unpunished.

But that’s not what God did with our sins. He didn’t ignore them or leave them unpunished through a divine pardon. That would mean our sin is still on our record; it would simply go unpunished.

But our sin is gone; it’s forgotten forever! Our rightful condemnation has been completely crushed by the perfect life and perfect sacrificial payment of God’s own Son, Jesus Christ. Our sin is not just pardoned; it’s vanquished and vanished forever. And not just our sin but the sins of the whole world. What power!

Make no mistake about it. We are more than pardoned. Sing for joy because “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.”

Prayer:
Jesus, thank you for giving me the assurance that my sin has been paid for and my condemnation forever crushed. 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 – March 27, 2022

2022/03/27/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: When the weight of our sin makes us fearful of God’s condemnation, he reveals his grace yet again.

Jesus continued: “There was a man who had two sons. The younger one said to his father, ‘Father, give me my share of the estate.’ So he divided his property between them.

“Not long after that, the younger son got together all he had, set off for a distant country and there squandered his wealth in wild living. After he had spent everything, there was a severe famine in that whole country, and he began to be in need. So he went and hired himself out to a citizen of that country, who sent him to his fields to feed pigs. He longed to fill his stomach with the pods that the pigs were eating, but no one gave him anything.

“When he came to his senses, he said, ‘How many of my father’s hired servants have food to spare, and here I am starving to death! I will set out and go back to my father and say to him: Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son; make me like one of your hired servants.’ So he got up and went to his father.

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.

“The son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against heaven and against you. I am no longer worthy to be called your son.’

“But the father said to his servants, ‘Quick! Bring the best robe and put it on him. Put a ring on his finger and sandals on his feet. Bring the fattened calf and kill it. Let’s have a feast and celebrate. For this son of mine was dead and is alive again; he was lost and is found.’ So they began to celebrate.”

Luke 15:11-24

Our Condemnation Is Crushed by God’s Grace

Luke chapter 15 is commonly called, “The Story of the Prodigal Son.” Prodigal is not a common word in our modern vocabulary. Today, we would use words such as extravagant or lavish. When this word is applied to humans, it is usually not a compliment. In the story, the younger of two sons asks his father for his inheritance. At that time and in that culture, this was like the son telling his father that he wished he was dead so he could have the only thing that mattered to him—the only thing that his father was good for to him—money. He got what he wanted and lived a lavish, extravagant life with it. Now, we might say we would never go that far, but in some ways we do. We live in a world that says, “If it feels good, it must be good,” and, “Do what makes you happy.” But what made the prodigal son happy didn’t keep him happy for long, or healthy. Neither do the sinful choices we make.

It is sadly natural to rely on one’s own intuition and reason. Just like the prodigal son, we come up with plans and focus on them to get what we desire. 1 Corinthians 1:25 says, “The foolishness of God is wiser than human wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than human strength.” How often do we find our weakness is our own wisdom? We often go to great lengths to justify what we think and do. Sometimes, only in hindsight, we look back and see how we went down a path that did not trust God—but revealed a misplaced faith. Perhaps we over relied on human wisdom.

What is faith from the perspective of human wisdom? What society often calls “faith” may better be called “speculation.” The hunger for “hopeful speculation” is driven by the need to feel “okay” with ourselves and to feel we are not alone. So we start creating excuses for ourselves, for our mistakes, and for the ever-present problem of suffering that accompanies our lives. Faith is said to be “an idea that I have come up with—in which I can hope. It really doesn’t matter what the idea is; it just matters that I hope in it.” In other words, “Have faith in your faith.” What we are trying to do is justify ourselves, all the while wondering if we have ever done enough. What a travesty! It replaces Christ as the object of faith. Christ alone makes faith valuable.

But know this: we have a prodigal God. He is extravagant and lavish—particularly when it comes to his forgiveness. Led by the Holy Spirit to the cross, we confess our sins. At the cross we see the wildest act of wastefulness—an innocent man, completely without fault, no guilt, no filth, no dirt, no shame being treated like a wretched sinner. There our condemnation is crushed, and we see just how lavish, just how extravagant, just how reckless the love God has for us is—we see it through Christ. We see that salvation is not merit-based, but grace-given, something that sounds foolish to human ears.

Let this be your takeaway: while today’s story is about a prodigal son, it is really about a prodigal father and his amazing grace toward a son that didn’t deserve it. Now it’s our story. When you feel lost and beyond return, may the extravagant and lavish grace of our Lord Jesus always find and restore you!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I too easily get lost in my own thoughts and feelings. Thank you for never giving up on me. Thank you for your free and extravagant love that finds and forgives me every day. Help me to rely on you and to freely forgive others as you have forgiven me. Guide me and lead me in your ways. Keep me faithful and give me the constant assurance of your love. 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.

Autopilots of Life – March 27, 2022

2022/03/27/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires.
Romans 8:5

Autopilots of Life

Daily Devotion – March 27, 2022

Devotion based on Romans 8:5

See series: Devotions

Do you feel trapped or stuck in a miserable pattern of life? Are your feelings making you feel caged? Are your sinful habits too hard to climb out of? Perhaps your autopilot is set wrong.

Often when we think of laws, we think of those rules that have been set up that we must abide by. But there is another way the word “law” is used. Think, for example, of the law of gravity. I don’t know of anyone arrested for breaking the “law” of gravity. This kind of law is an observed reality of how things work–the consistent pattern that holds true.

The pattern that holds true in the lives of people is the “law” of sinful nature. It is the autopilot that directs us to want the opposite of what God wants. But the Holy Spirit resets the autopilot of our lives. He creates in us a new heart as he leads us to trust what Jesus did by perfectly keeping God’s law for us and putting himself under the sentence of condemnation that we deserved. He became what we were to be, so we could be forever tied to what he is. When we live in trust in Christ, a new direction is set for our lives. There is no longer the slavery to the feelings and actions to the sinful nature, but rather a continued growing in Christlikeness. Keep reading and listening to the message of the Bible to keep your autopilot set right on Jesus.

Prayer:
Holy Spirit, overcome the autopilot of my sinful nature and create a Christlike heart in its place. 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.

Freedom – March 26, 2022

2022/03/26/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favor.
Isaiah 61:1,2

Freedom

Daily Devotion – March 26, 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 61:1,2

See series: Devotions

“Freedom!” Perhaps you recall Mel Gibson screaming that word in one of the final scenes of the movie Braveheart. He gave all he had so that the people of his nation would be free from England’s rule. He lost his life, the war continued, perhaps there were times of relative freedom and peace, yet any quick study of history reveals continued struggles and battles.

Has your soul ever cried out for “freedom”? Have you ever wanted to be completely free from a nagging or guilty conscience? No matter how hard you fight or how long you try, you can never seem to win that battle. The memory of your past sins and faults never seems to set you free.

In our Bible reading for today, the prophet Isaiah shouts, “Freedom!” Isaiah foretells the work of the coming Savior, Jesus. Because of the Lord’s great love and favor, he punished Jesus in your place. Jesus suffered and died on that cross as your substitute. The result is free and full forgiveness for each and every one of your sins. That’s freedom! That’s the good news that binds up even the most broken heart. Like a beam of sunshine, these words pierce the darkness of the prison of sin.

Now you and I can shout out loud each day, “I am free!” We can step forward into each day with a fresh and clean conscience, confident in the Lord’s proclamation of forgiveness through faith in Jesus. And, like a wonderful gift, what better way to say thanks to God for our newfound freedom than to shout it out and share the good news with others.

Prayer:
Thank you, Lord Jesus, for wiping away my sin and giving me a fresh start. Help me to live for you each day so that I can show my thanks to you in my words and actions. Help me shine forth your love to others who are still searching for freedom from their sins. 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.

There’s Always a Way Out – Family Devotion – March 25, 2022

2022/03/25/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:13

There’s Always a Way Out

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Family Devotion – March 25, 2022

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 10:13

See series: Devotions

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

“But lead us not into temptation.” Do you recognize those words? We say them every time we pray the Lord’s Prayer. We ask God to deliver us from evil and to lead us not into temptation. Temptation is a big word! What does temptation look like in our lives?

Different people face different temptations. Sometimes it’s tempting to be mean to our friends and family members because it’s so much harder to show them love. Sometimes we’re tempted to sit through a devotion without really hearing a single word. Sometimes we’re tempted to rely on ourselves or other people in our lives rather than trusting in God. And the list goes on.

We face temptation every day. Sometimes we make wise decisions and avoid them. Too often, we don’t. Often, giving in to the temptation seems like more fun or the cool thing to do. Giving in is easy; standing strong is hard.

That’s the bad news. But there’s also good news! Like us, Jesus faced temptation that wasn’t easy for him. But unlike us, he stood up to every temptation perfectly. That’s why God’s Word for today says that because Jesus suffered while he was being tempted, he understands exactly what we are going through when we’re being tempted—and he can help us when we face temptation.

Having someone who can help us through our temptations is really good news. And there’s even more good news in today’s reading. Temptation will always be part of our life. But God promises he will also provide a way out. Even if we can’t always see what that way out is, we can be sure that it’s there.

We won’t always resist temptation perfectly. We won’t always take that way out. We’ll fail sometimes. But don’t give up! Confess the times we fail and ask for God’s forgiveness. Then, try again when the next temptation comes. And always thank God that Jesus perfectly resisted every temptation in our place—so that one day, we can be with him in heaven where we’ll be free of every temptation. Until then, know God will always provide a way out!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for resisting every temptation and being without sin. Help me to get better at resisting when I am tempted. Show me the way out that you have promised in your Word. 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

Temptation is a big word. Can you explain what it means?
Who perfectly resisted every temptation?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What does it mean to be tempted?
How do you know that Jesus can help you when you are tempted?

Questions for Middle School and Above

What should you do when you’re faced with temptation and you can’t see the way out?
Think of a temptation that you face regularly. What wise decision can you make to resist it?

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.

Zion redeemed – March 25, 2022

2022/03/25/in Devotions, Military Devotions

Zion redeemed – March 25, 2022

Zion will be redeemed with justice, her penitent ones with righteousness.
Isaiah 1:27

Military Devotion – March 25 2022

Devotion based on Isaiah 1:27

See series: Military Devotions

The story of our salvation is the story of Zion redeemed.

Mount Zion was a hill in Jerusalem the Canaanites had used as a fortress. Zion became a synonym for Jerusalem as well as for the whole land of Israel. Sometimes, it also represents the people of God, the holy Christian church.

Through the prophet Isaiah, the Holy Spirit pointed an accusing finger at his people with the words, “Ah, sinful nation, a people loaded with guilt…” He went on to identify the guilt. “They have forsaken the LORD; they have spurned the Holy One of Israel and turned their backs on him” (Isaiah 2:4ff).

This will have consequences. Isaiah admits, “Unless the LORD Almighty had left us some survivors, we would have become like Sodom, we would have been like Gomorrah.”

We can picture what that would be like. We have seen photos of destroyed Hiroshima and Nagasaki. We have learned of the power the Creator has at his command. It is frightful.

Long before, Moses had written of the Holy One, “We are consumed by your anger and terrified by your indignation” (Psalm 90:7).

How does someone escape this fury? What can be done to turn away his anger? Could sinners pay a fine? Could they offer a bribe? Could those people pay the Holy One off by offering him sacrifices?

They tried it. It didn’t work. It will never work. He scolded them, “Stop bringing meaningless offerings!”

He told them, “Seek justice, encourage the oppressed.”

But then they heard, “Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow” (Isaiah 1:18).

How can that be? Those people surely were not able to stop sinning, were they? They surely were not able to make up for the evil they had done by trying extra hard to do good, were they?

Of course not. They and we must confess with the prophet, “All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6).

Filthy rags! That’s the best we can offer. It’s an impossible situation for us.

But not for the Redeemer God. As Jesus would tell the people of his day, “All things are possible with God” (Mark 10:27). The LORD himself would step into that impossible situation.

“Zion will be redeemed with justice” Scripture declares.

Jesus brought that justice into the courtroom of the Judge of all. The Son of God was absolutely without guilt. But he assumed the debt of the guilty. So, he became guilty.

He was found guilty. He was given the death sentence. It was carried out on Golgotha.

The debt once owned by humans is now paid for.

How does one become the recipient of the payment, the redemption?

The need for help needs to be recognized. Sorrow for sin needs to be felt. The Holy Spirit seeks to enable that. It is called repentance.

Thus, the word is given that Zion will be redeemed with justice, and it is explained, “her penitent ones with righteousness.”

The righteousness of the Holy One of God now covers the former guilty ones who place their trust in the Savior God. So, the apostle can announce, “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ” (Romans 5:1).

That’s it! Zion has peace with God. Zion is redeemed.

And we are Zion.

Prayer:
Holy Father, Holy Son, and Holy Spirit, we lift our eyes in wonder to hear that our guilt has been paid for. Our trust in Jesus as our Savior has placed us among the redeemed of God. For this, we thank you. For this, we praise you. Because of this, we are forever blessed. Amen.

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

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

Sparking Joy – March 25, 2022

2022/03/25/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Then [Jesus] told this parable: “A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’ “‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’”
Luke 13:6-9

Sparking Joy

Daily Devotion – March 25, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:6-9

See series: Devotions

Does it spark joy? Over the last few years, many people have become familiar with that question because of the popularity of Marie Kondo and her KonMari system of tidying. Pick up any item and ask yourself, “Does this spark joy?” When the answer is yes, then you can be sure you’re retaining it for a good reason.

Does it seem like the fig tree sparked joy in the heart of the vineyard owner? Not so much. He saw little reason to keep it around. He’d been reasonable. After all, one would expect that a fig tree would produce figs. He’d been patient, looking for fruit from the fig tree for three years. To receive nothing in return for all his time invested sparked the opposite of joy. He was ready to get rid of it. The only thing that saved it was the intercession of the caretaker.

We also have a caretaker–a divine caretaker. Jesus pleads for us and nurtures us. His grace and forgiveness make us want to produce good fruit in our lives. Truly that sparks joy in the heart of God. And in our hearts, too.

Prayer:
Holy Spirit, you work in people’s hearts to bring them to repentance and faith. Graciously do the same for me every day. And then help me to produce fruits of faith and repentance in gratitude 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.

Security Alarm – March 24, 2022

2022/03/24/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Now there were some present at that time who told Jesus about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mixed with their sacrifices. Jesus answered, “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.”
Luke 13:1-3

Security Alarm

Daily Devotion – March 24, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:1-3

See series: Devotions

It’s a lot easier to shake our heads in disgust than it is to bow our heads in shame. In other words, we’re more than willing to get out our metaphorical magnifying glass to see the sins of the people around us better. But we’re not nearly as willing to subject ourselves to the same scrutiny. Things weren’t all that different in Jesus’ day. Especially when disaster struck, it was common reasoning that the victims had committed some sin to make God mad. And the worse the disaster, the angrier God must have been.

Our Bible reading for today tells us about some sort of altercation at or near the temple in Jerusalem and the blood of the worshipers ended up being mixed with the sacrifices they were bringing. Judging by Jesus’ no-nonsense response, one wonders if maybe the conversation included a question that reflected the popular thought at the time. “Who sinned? Whose sin caused this to happen?”

Jesus puts those thoughts to bed right away. “Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other Galileans because they suffered this way? I tell you, no! But unless you repent, you too will all perish.” Do you see what happened? Jesus took the magnifying glass out of their hands and got them to look in the mirror instead.

It might be hard to hear, but we depend on Jesus to lead us away from the false security that comes from dwelling on the sins of others and lead us to a place where we can see our own desperate need. Only there, crushed and broken by the mountain of God’s law can we marvel at the mercy that the Redeemer from Heaven shows us in putting us back together in the promises of God. That’s where we find true security, the kind that lasts forever.

Prayer:
Holy Spirit, deliver me in mercy from the temptation to focus on the sins of others. Lead me to see my own need, and to rejoice in the security found in Christ 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.

Exactly What We Need – Family Devotion – March 23, 2022

2022/03/23/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Exodus 3:1-15

But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?”

And God said, “I will be with you.”
Exodus 3:11,12

Exactly What We Need

LISTEN HERE

Family Devotion – March 23, 2022

Devotion based on Exodus 3:11,12

See series: Devotions

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

Being a kid is pretty great sometimes. You play games and participate in fun activities. You go to birthday parties and have sleepovers with your friends. Your parents feed you and drive you places, and you don’t have as many responsibilities as adults do.

But there are other times when being a kid isn’t all that great. School can be hard, and it can feel like there’s just too much to learn. You often have fun with your friends, but you don’t always feel like you fit in. And sometimes, you aren’t tall enough or smart enough or grown-up enough to easily do things. Sometimes, you just can’t get everything done on your own.

Moses felt the same way, even though he wasn’t a kid anymore. God appeared to Moses in the burning bush and told him that it was time to rescue his people from slavery. God wanted to use Moses as part of his rescue.

But Moses didn’t think he was up to the task. He hadn’t grown up among the Israelites; Pharaoh’s daughter adopted and raised him as an Egyptian. He had never been eloquent—he wasn’t a good speaker—and he didn’t think he could convince Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. In the next chapter of Exodus, Moses flat out asked God to change his mind and send someone else.

Moses was right: he couldn’t get this job done on his own. That’s the beauty of today’s devotion: he didn’t have to. God promised that he would be with Moses, that he would give Moses miracles (awesome displays of God’s power), and that he would provide the words for Moses to say.

God might not speak through burning bushes today, but he still calls us to follow him. He calls us to tell how Jesus rescued us and how to live our lives in ways that show we are his people. Like Moses, we can’t get this done on our own—but we don’t have to. God promises to be with us every step of the way, and he promises to give us exactly what we need to carry out our calling. What an amazing promise!

Closing Prayer:

Lord God, thank you for giving us everything we need to carry out our callings. Help us to look to you for strength as we seek to tell others about you and live lives that reflect the faith we have. 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 haven’t already, read Exodus 3:1-4. How did God speak to Moses?
Why didn’t Moses want to go and talk to Pharaoh?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Think of something that you can’t get done on your own. Who can you ask to help you accomplish this job?
God said, “I will be with you.” Take a moment to think and then share a way you will rely on that promise of God this week.

Questions for Middle School and Above

Moses heard God’s voice through a burning bush. How do you hear God’s voice today?
God sent Moses’ brother Aaron along with him to help Moses and speak for him. Name someone in your life who can help you in the same way. How specifically do they help you?

Download and print devotion

Family Devotions are brought to you by WELS Discipleship.

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

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

Standing on Unshakeable Ground -March 23, 2022

2022/03/23/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
1 Corinthians 10:12

Standing on Unshakeable Ground

Daily Devotion – March 23, 2022

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 10:12

See series: Devotions

The Passu Suspension Bridge is a walking bridge that traverses the Hunza River in Pakistan. It’s composed of hundreds of rickety boards spaced several feet apart, all hung together by a few meager ropes. Some have called it one of the most dangerous bridges in the world. Looking at images of it online, it’s easy to believe them.

But at least when folks are walking on the Passu Suspension Bridge, they know the danger. They know they’re on shaky ground (or more appropriately, shaky bridge), and they can at least take appropriate precautions. It’s far more dangerous to be on shaky ground and have no idea of the peril you’re in. That’s especially true of spiritual matters. That’s why the Bible warns, “If you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”

The Old Testament Israelites had received blessing upon blessing from the benevolent hand of God. And they were pretty comfortable with being God’s special nation. So comfortable that they grew unappreciative, whiny, and disobedient.

What does it have to do with us? Having received so many gifts from God regularly, it can be easy for us to take them for granted—to think we’ve earned and deserved them. Taking credit for what God has done? That’s spiritually shaky ground. “Be careful that you don’t fall!” Paul tells us.

Does this mean we shouldn’t be confident about our faith, forgiveness, resurrection, or eternity? No, that’s not Paul’s point. We can remain fully confident with our eyes fixed on Jesus, trusting that God will keep the promises he’s made in his Word. Full forgiveness through faith in the Lamb of God. That is God’s unshakable promise. And “God is faithful,” the Bible says in the very next verse. It’s things like smugness, complacency, and ingratitude that focus our attention inward and away from God. Those are the things we pray that the Holy Spirit would help us watch out for, the things that he would help us to sweep mercilessly from our hearts today and every day.

Prayer:
Holy Spirit, lead me to focus my hope on the unshakeable promises of God. Help me to rely on you that I may remain standing firm till the end. Amen.

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

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

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

A Lesson in Gratitude – March 22, 2022

2022/03/22/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

These things happened to them as examples and were written down as warnings for us, on whom the culmination of the ages has come.
1 Corinthians 10:11

A Lesson in Gratitude

Daily Devotion – March 22, 2022

Devotion based on 1 Corinthians 10:11

See series: Devotions

Think of a time when your mom or dad taught you something important. Maybe it was how to tie your shoelaces or how to make your bed. Maybe there were times when it wasn’t a skill that you learned from them, but rather attitudes or values. And then, of course, because they were human, there were times when their mistakes taught you that some of their words or actions were best not to imitate.

Sometimes we learn what to do from those who’ve gone before us. Sometimes we learn what not to do. In our Bible reading for today we hear the apostle Paul tell the church at Corinth to look carefully at the generation of Israelites made famous in the book of Exodus. “Learn from them,” Paul says. “Learn what not to do.”

Those Israelites had every advantage, spiritually speaking. They had seen God’s hand deliver his people from Egypt. They had passed between the parted waters of the Red Sea. They had daily collected the manna that had fallen miraculously from heaven. They’d been on the receiving end of grace upon grace, miracle upon miracle. Humble gratitude would have been the appropriate response.

But presumption, rather than humble gratitude, was the dominant attitude among the Israelites. And if knowing that doesn’t lead us to check ourselves for presumption, the lesson to be learned here would be totally lost on us.

How easy for us to feel slighted because someone else has received something we haven’t. And to complain loudly—even if it’s just in our heads—about God’s providence, even as we live each day with food on the table, a bed to sleep in, a closet full of clothes—and a heavenly home waiting for us. That’s presumption when humble gratitude is called for. So we approach the cross, trusting Jesus’ promise that he will cover these sins, too, with his perfect life and innocent blood! And knowing that He has, we rededicate ourselves to lives of humble gratitude before the One who gives us every good thing.

Prayer:
Holy Spirit, drive presumption from my heart, and keep me ever mindful, ever thankful for the undeserved blessings that come from your hand. 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.

Help in Doing Good – Family Devotion – March 21, 2022

2022/03/21/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 13:1-9

Then [Jesus] told this parable: “A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. Cut it down! Why should it use up the soil?’

“‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’”
Luke 13:6-9

Help in Doing Good

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Family Devotion – March 21, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:6-9

See series: Devotions

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

Theo was mad. Everything was great—he and his best friend Anton had been happily playing. But then Anton took Theo’s toy and wouldn’t give it back. So Theo went and told his mom. He wanted her to tell Anton to give the toy back. He wanted his mom to be just as mad has he was.

Instead, Theo’s mom explained that Anton didn’t have brothers and sisters like Theo, so Anton needed practice in learning how to share. Rather than getting mad at Anton, Theo’s mom suggested that through his actions, he be patient and show Anton how to share.

Just like Anton, there’s something that everybody isn’t good at. But it’s something much more serious than sharing toys. Because of sin, none of us are good at obeying God. None of us are good at living like God tells us to live. On our own, we’re just like the tree that Jesus talks about in today’s reading—none of us are good at producing spiritual fruit.

There’s a struggle that happens inside us every day, a struggle between our naughty side and the nice, new person we are in Christ. The apostle Paul sums up this struggle: “For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing” (Romans 7:19). How terrible! Is there any possible way to win that struggle and do good?

Left on our own, we will always lose that struggle between good and evil on this side of heaven. Anton needed help learning how to share. The tree in today’s reading needed help in producing fruit. When it comes to living like Christians, we need help too.

Where does that help come from? It comes from Jesus. He crushed everything wrong with us and made everything right between us and God. He showed us through his words and actions how to obey God. It comes from God’s Word, where God speaks to us and strengthens our faith. And it comes from everybody who helps you better understand God’s Word: faithful pastors, loving teachers, and patient parents.

One more thing: don’t be confused about why we do good. We don’t do good to make God like us more or to avoid being punished. We do good because we love God. We appreciate everything he’s done for us. Now, we want to do what God asks of us!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being so patient with us as we seek to obey God. Forgive us when we don’t. Encourage us to always look to you for how to live. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

Who can help us do good?
Where can we learn more about how to obey God?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why can’t we perfectly obey God on our own?
What’s one way you could have acted differently today in order to better obey God?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Even though you will always struggle with your sinful nature, why don’t you have to worry that God will lose patience with your struggle?
Jesus’ story talked about a tree in danger of getting cut down because there was no fruit. What does spiritual fruit look like in your life? Why is it so important?

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.

Dare to be Dependent – Week of March 21, 2022

2022/03/21/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Dare to be Dependent – Week of March 21, 2022

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can stand up under it.
I Corinthians 10:12-13

ECME Devotion March 21, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

One of the greatest joys of teaching young children is witnessing independence being born. An incredible transformation occurs over the course of the school year. We swell with pride when our students no longer need us to hold their hand, tie their shoes, or explain the directions for the umpteenth time.

Children spend most of their childhood acquiring the skills needed to live an independent life. The goal is to set them up for success without them having to rely so heavily on their parents or their teachers.

Maybe it’s because we spend so much of our lives learning to be independent, that we tend to struggle depending on others or even on our Savior when it comes to temptation. We take pride in not needing encouragement or help.

Right when we think we can get through this life and its temptations alone, we are precisely at our weakest. “So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has seized you except what is common to man.” Maybe we have said the phrase “I can do it myself” so often over our lifetime that we begin to think we are meant to do it all alone.

Did you know that this passage to the Corinthians preaches exactly the opposite? In the phrase “he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear.”, the Greek for the word “you” is in its PLURAL form- y’all (if you’re from the South like me).

Paul isn’t telling you singular to pull up your bootstraps and simply find the strength to resist the temptation. He is addressing a group, a team, a brother and sisterhood.

We simply aren’t meant to walk this Christian life alone. Together, we can build each other up. Together, we can resist temptation by pointing each other to Scripture and to our Savior- the source of our strength.

Independence is a beautiful thing. What a blessing to watch a child blossom and grow into their unique self. Dependence can be just as beautiful of a blessing from God. We were given Christian brothers and sisters to lean on when trials and temptations knock on our door.

Let us also not forget the greatest blessing of all- a Father who provides a “way out” when our load seems too heavy to bear. God is faithful. He will provide a way. Take his hand. Depend on him.

Prayer

Loving Jesus, thank you for giving us Christian brothers and sisters in this life. Help us lean on each other and more importantly lean on you as we face trials and temptations. We praise you for always being our dependable Savior. Amen.

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

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

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

True Security – March 21, 2022

2022/03/21/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” And God said, “I will be with you.”
Exodus 3:11,12

True Security

Daily Devotion – March 21, 2022

Devotion based on Exodus 3:11,12

See series: Devotions

When God called Moses to lead the Israelites out of Egypt, Moses appeared to be insecure and unsure of himself. He openly questioned God’s choice in sending him. But, perhaps rather than saying Moses was insecure, it is more accurate to say that Moses’ security rested in the wrong place. Moses held on tightly to the security that he believed resided with his shepherd’s crook and fuzzy flock, security that he had trouble envisioning in his new calling. After all, it would take tremendous courage to confront Pharaoh. His physical well-being might be in danger. He had certainly become a very public figure with a very sizable target on his back. If he saw greater security in the fields, one can hardly fault his thinking.

But here’s what we must not forget. Moses wasn’t leaving his security behind with his sheep. His God remained by his side. When the Creator of the Constellations says, “I will be with you” that’s real security—security that endures regardless of outward circumstances.

And that is his promise to us. Although all things are possible for him, our God chooses not to show us his visible presence in a burning bush. He shows us that he is nearby showing us, Jesus—God with flesh and bones who promises his continuous presence. God shows us he is nearby revealing himself in the words of the Bible, washing us with the water of baptism, and feeding us with his true body and blood in the Lord’s Supper.

Wherever we may go, we go with our God’s promise. “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). His faithful presence is our true security.

Prayer:
Triune God, help me face every new day calm and trusting in the promise of your faithful presence. Amen.

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

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

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

The Difference – March 20, 2022

2022/03/20/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

All spoke well of him and were amazed at the gracious words that came from his lips. “Isn’t this Joseph’s son?” they asked . . . All the people in the synagogue were furious when they heard this. They got up, drove him out of the town, and took him to the brow of the hill on which the town was built, in order to throw him down the cliff.
Luke 4:22,28,29

The Difference

Daily Devotion – March 20, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 4:22,28,29

See series: Devotions

Notice the difference in the reaction of the same people to Jesus, and all in a matter of a few minutes. In verse 22, “all spoke well of him…” In verse 28, “All…were furious when they heard this.” In fact (vs. 29), they tried to kill him. What had Jesus said that so changed their demeanor? Using the words of the Bible, Jesus told the people that he was the Messiah (the Savior) promised by God for his people, Israel. Further, he pointed out that when Israel did not receive God’s plan of salvation for them in Old Testament times, God sent the message to foreigners.

Did Jesus’ hearers need a savior? Yes, they did. They were sinners, as have been all people since Adam and Eve. That includes us. You and I need a savior, too. We sinned and separated ourselves from God. Jesus took our sins on himself by living a perfect life in our place, then innocently suffering, and being sacrificed for us. Jesus paid the price for our sins and his Father accepted us back into fellowship with him.

Are there differences between Jesus’ hearers in Nazareth and us? Not in terms of our need for a savior. But thank God that he has convinced us that Jesus is our Savior. Because of the faith the Holy Spirit has implanted in us, we know that we will spend eternity in heaven.

Prayer:
Dear Jesus, I thank and praise you for your work of salvation, taking my punishment on yourself. Take me to be with you eternally. 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 – March 20, 2022

2022/03/20/in Teen Devotions

One truth shared: Even when we lose our way because of temptation, God promises to provide a way out.

So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall! No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.
1 Corinthians 10:12-13

False Security Is Crushed by Faithful Presence

It’s a commonly asked question: “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Why would God allow something bad to happen to us—his followers? When trouble or hardships come into our lives, we often find it easier to question or even blame God than to trust in him. And this is not unique to us, the Israelites did it too.

When the Israelites wandered in the desert for 40 years, they grumbled and complained about food. God gave them food. They grumbled and complained about that food. They chose to ignore God’s way and faced severe consequences as a result. Read 1 Corinthians 10:1-13. Ask yourself, ”Why do people repeat the same mistake over and over?”

Maybe the question ought to be, “Why do I repeatedly make the same mistake over and over?” In some way and to varying degree, our lives imitate what others have gone through. People of all ages have grumbled and complained. You are not the first to face similar “pet sins” through life. They never seem to really go away. How easy to think, “I can conquer this sin, after all, didn’t God say I wouldn’t be tempted beyond what I can bear?” Later, I end up eating those words when I succumb to temptation.

Here’s the painful truth: “No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind.” What an ugly mess life becomes when the agenda for our lives gets disconnected from God’s agenda. Listen to God’s warning, “If you thnk you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!”

But here’s another truth: “God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” What way out is that? It’s the gospel message that Jesus was tempted in every way as we are. Where we failed, he succeeded. He made right all our wrongs.

God know the limits to your strength and power. Trust that in the moment of temptation, he will help you stand up under its weight so you don’t fall.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, there are times you allow hardships to be part of my life. Too often, I grumble or complain about them. When facing temptation, I give up too easily. Help me remember that Jesus is my way back to you. And in the moment of hardship and temptation, be faithful in your promise to help me bear it and overcome with your strength. 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.

Our Citizenship – March 19, 2022

2022/03/19/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.
Philippians 3:18-20

Our Citizenship

Daily Devotion – March 19, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 3:18-20

See series: Devotions

While my family lived in southern Alabama, we loved southern hospitality, greeting friends with a hug at the grocery store, and “slap my Momma” chocolate cake.

But hot boiled peanuts we never learned to crave—maybe because we weren’t from around there.

Christians can relate. We’re not “from around here.” So, we don’t live to make our belly happy, as if this were our home. Our citizenship is in heaven.

True, we sometimes live for our belly. We neglect family to make a few extra bucks with overtime. We rush out the door, ignoring a need for help that a neighbor has. Every day we sin by living for ourselves and not for our Savior.

Then Jesus steps in. Christians aren’t citizens of heaven because we deserve it. We belong in heaven because Jesus gave us citizenship. He signed our naturalization papers with his blood from the cross.

We yearn for the day when Jesus will come back, transform our bodies into glorious ones, and take us home to heaven.

Not sure if you’re a citizen of heaven? You don’t need a visa or to pass a civics test to know Jesus died for you. He’s already signed your naturalization papers. Your sins are forgiven, and there’s a place for you in heaven—all gifts of his love for you!

Enjoy his blessings here and look forward to your home in heaven!

Prayer:
Jesus, remind me of my home in heaven every day. Give me the strength to live for you and not for my belly. 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.

No Shortcuts – Family Devotion – March 18, 2022

2022/03/18/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Luke 13:31-33

At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, “Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you.” He replied, “Go tell that fox, ‘I will keep on driving out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ In any case, I must press on today and tomorrow and the next day—for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem!”
Luke 13:31-33

No Shortcuts

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Family Devotion – March 18, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:31-33

See series: Devotions

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

There is a saying about shortcuts that goes, “shortcuts aren’t always.” It means this: that sometimes we think we are saving time by taking a shortcut, but it doesn’t always end up that way. Ask a child who decided to shove everything under their bed when told to clean their room. Once their parents discovered the “shortcut,” not only did they have to finish cleaning their room, they also had to clean the bathroom and the dishes. What seemed like a shortcut wasn’t one at all.

In our reading for today, Jesus was teaching and preaching in an area ruled by Herod Antipas. While he was there, some Pharisees told Jesus that Herod wanted to kill him and that he should leave the area. Whether they knew it or not, the Pharisees were offering Jesus a shortcut to avoid his mission of traveling to Jerusalem to suffer and die for the sins of all people.

It is hard to even think about, but can you imagine if Jesus accepted their offer of a shortcut? It would have been devastating for us. Due to our sinful nature, we have no way to save ourselves. On our own we have no hope for the future, and our path through this life here on earth could end only in eternal destruction.

Praise be to God that Jesus in his perfect determination didn’t even flinch. He knew there was no shortcut to the painful path he was on, so he pressed on. While the road to his death would not be easy, he knew his journey wouldn’t end on the cross. Three days later he would reach his goal by rising from the dead and winning for us the eternal victory over sin, death, and the devil.

All this Jesus did for us not because we have earned or deserved it, but because of his amazing love for us. Even more, he has worked in our hearts the gift of faith so that we may receive the blessings of the forgiveness of sins and eternal life with him in heaven.

As we journey with Jesus to the cross during this season of Lent, we can’t help but be sad that it was our sins that caused him to suffer and die. At the same time, we can’t help but marvel at his willingness to avoid any shortcuts to rescue us!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Savior, what wondrous love you showed us by taking the long and hard journey to the cross. We thank you for your willingness to avoid any shortcuts, so that through the gift of faith, we might live with you forever in heaven. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

How are the naughty things we do a “shortcut”?
How did Jesus save you from your sins?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Why was Jesus willing to suffer and die on the cross for you?
How can you show your gratitude to Jesus for his amazing love?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Think of a time you tried to take a shortcut and it didn’t work out like you planned.
Why was it so important that Jesus never took a shortcut in his plan to save 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.

A gory God – March 18, 2022

2022/03/18/in Devotions, Military Devotions

A gory God – March 18, 2022

In fact, the law requires that nearly everything be cleansed with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness.
Hebrews 9:22

Military Devotion -March 18, 2022

Devotion based on Hebrews 9:22

See series: Military Devotions

She said, “You have a gory God!”

There was the sound of contempt in her voice mixed with a twinge of sadness. She said she believed in peace and love. She wondered how I could worship someone who is reported as having killed countless civilians when Israel left Egypt. Then, she pointed to the more than a thousand Assyrian soldiers under Sennacherib who were found lifeless outside of Jerusalem one morning.

She asked, “Wasn’t this the same God who claimed credit for each carnage?”

Had she known her Bible better, she might have listed more instances of when an encounter with the Lord God resulted in the death of humans.

And then, what about all the animals killed as offerings to the God of Israel?

As we gather in our clean and tidy church buildings, it’s difficult to envision what it was like for the Old Testament people as they brought offerings to be slaughtered as an act of worship.

Wasn’t this woman right in declaring, “You have a gory God!”?

There’s even more evidence, is there not? What about when the Lord God commanded Abraham to use a knife to kill his own son?

What are we to make of that?

In the end, Abraham’s son was spared. An animal substituted for him. But the mere threat can make us wonder if the almighty God might actually carry through with such a command at some point in time.

No need to wonder. History shows he did just that. The Bible covers this dreadful event in great detail. It is not a pretty picture.

It reveals the Father sacrificing his own Son. There is blood aplenty. A wreath made of thorns was jammed down onto his skull. Head wounds seem to bleed a lot.

He was whipped by soldiers. More blood.

Nails were pounded into hands and feet. Finally, a spear was stabbed into his side. Out came blood and water.

A gory sight!

This happened not by chance. It was premeditated. Not by Jewish leaders. Not by Roman soldiers.

It was planned and implemented by the Lord of creation.

Seven hundred years years before the horror took place, Isaiah described the victim in his prophecy, “His appearance,” he wrote, “was so disfigured beyond that of any man and his form marred beyond human likeness” (Isaiah 52:14).

If the Lord God caused this, is he not a gory God?

It seems so. Yet, the Bible makes something very clear. The Holy One did not cause the blood and gore. That’s on the humans. They are the ones who defied holy laws. They brought death and damnation upon themselves. Sin comes with a death penalty.

If they were to be spared, if they were to be rescued, someone innocent of sin would need to take their place. That someone would be punished by the holy God. That substitute someone would need to suffer a bloody, agonizing death.

That someone was Jesus, the Son of God.

The fist of divine judgment struck him instead of us. He bled and died because he was guilty of crimes deserving abandonment to the depths of hell. You see, our guilt had been piled onto his shoulders. That’s what the sacrifices of innocent birds and animals in the temple pointed to. That’s what the bleeding and dying were all about.

So, with what words would we describe the judge of heaven and earth, of life and death?

How about, “merciful”? How about, “loving”? How about, “my Savior?”

For generations, his worshipers have pictured him hanging on the cross as they sang, “O sacred head, now wounded.” The hymn continues, “Yet, though despised and gory, I joy to call you mine.”

So what would we say to that woman asking how we could worship such a one?

Don’t we need to answer, don’t we want to answer, “A gory God? Yes, he was!”?

Thank God, he was.

For us, he was made gory.

For her too!

Prayer:
What language shall I borrow to thank you dearest Friend,
For this, your dying sorrow, your pity without end?
Oh, make me yours forever, and keep me strong and true;
Lord, let me never, never outlive my love for you. Amen.
Christian Worship 429:5

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.

Bless Him Whenever You See Him – March 18, 2022

2022/03/18/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus said] “I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Luke 13:35

Bless Him Whenever You See Him

Daily Devotion – March 18, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:35

See series: Devotions

Jesus comes in baptism in the name of the only true God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. It’s a great blessing to have the forgiveness of sins, eternal life, and salvation that is promised through baptism. When Jesus comes in baptism to you or others, it is appropriate to say, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Jesus comes to you whenever the name of the Lord is spoken in the reading of the Bible. The Lord’s name is broadly everything that he tells us about himself, and the place where he tells us about himself is the Holy Scripture. When Jesus comes in the Bible to you or others, it is appropriate to say, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

When Jesus rode a donkey into Jerusalem on the Sunday before he died, the people shouted, “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” On Sunday, before you remember the Lord’s death and celebrate his real presence in the Lord’s Supper, it is appropriate to sing, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”

Jesus will return on judgment day. Instead of being afraid, you will rejoice in your salvation through faith in Jesus. That will be an ideal time to join with the angels and with every believer who has ever lived and shout, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!”

Prayer:
Lord Jesus, I trust that I will see you again, and then I will say, “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.” 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.

He Will Cover You With His Wings – March 17, 2022

2022/03/17/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

[Jesus replied] “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing.”
Luke 13:34

He Will Cover You With His Wings

Daily Devotion – March 17, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:34

See series: Devotions

Patrick would have had good reason to curse the Irish. Born in Scotland, he was raised as a Christian but was not very serious about his faith. He was kidnapped at the age of sixteen and enslaved in Ireland. He did hard labor for six years and got much more serious about his faith. Finally, he escaped, made his way to the coast, got a job on a ship, and returned to Scotland.

But he could not get the Irish out of his mind. Something was compelling him to share Jesus, the one who had come to mean so much to him, with his former captors. After studying the Bible for nearly twenty years, he went back to Ireland a free man and never left. Despite opposition, he persevered and gathered the Irish into Christian congregations. We remember this remarkable man every March seventeenth when we celebrate Saint Patrick’s Day.

Jesus would have had good reason to curse the people of Jerusalem. He had come from heaven to save them, but many opposed him. Still, he longed to gather them together as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings. It’s a tender picture of love for people who did not deserve it.

It’s a tender picture of love for you and me. Jesus longs to gather us under his wings. He does not want to curse us. We ignore or oppose him at our own risk since salvation can come only from him. But he persevered, even to death, and he perseveres in gathering people into Christian congregations. Take refuge there.

Prayer:
Have mercy on me, my God, have mercy on me, for in you I take refuge. I will take refuge in the shadow of your wings until the disaster has passed. Amen.

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

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

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

Heaven Is My Home – Family Devotion – March 16, 2022

2022/03/16/in Devotions, Family Devotions

Read: Philippians 3:17-4:1

But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!
Philippians 3:20-4:1

Heaven Is My Home

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Family Devotion – March 16, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 3:20-4:1

See series: Devotions

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

For college basketball fans, this is the most exciting time of the year: March Madness. By the morning of March 17, a field of 64 teams will be set and the games will begin. Can you imagine what it would be like if you knew before the tournament started that your favorite team was going to win it all? Their best player could be injured, and they could be down by 20 points at halftime, but it wouldn’t matter because you knew for certain they would be crowned the champions in the end.

Today Paul is confident we can have something much more important than winning a basketball tournament. It’s citizenship in heaven. Most countries insist that you give up your former citizenship before taking up a new one. As Christians we have two places we call home. While we live on earth, our future home is in heaven. This means our homes and time here on earth are just momentary because our true home is in heaven where we will live forever.

We can be sure of our home in heaven because Jesus carried his cross to save us from our sins and gave us the gift of faith. Even though we suffer challenges because of our faith, we are wise to listen to Paul’s encouragement to “stand firm in the Lord.”

There is no easy way to avoid these challenges. Crosses will be a part of life while in our home on earth. We can find joy in them because we know that Jesus is working them for our good. He uses them to draw us closer to his side and to turn our focus away from the things of this world and back to him.

We can find contentment in any situation because we know that when Jesus returns, he will take us to be with him in heaven. Our bodies will be transformed, and there will be no more pain or suffering. Until we receive our crown in heaven, we ask Jesus to give us the strength and determination to take up our cross and follow him.

Closing Prayer:

Lord Jesus, we ask that you give us the strength to stand firm as we face crosses here on earth. Thank you for being willing to die on the cross to save us from our sins so that one day we might receive our crown in heaven. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

What do you like most about your home?
Where will you live forever one day because of Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

What city and state are you a citizen of?
What does Paul mean when he says we are citizens of heaven?

Questions for Middle School and Above

Give an example of a cross that you might face as a citizen on earth.
How does knowing Jesus already won you victory in heaven help you deal with the crosses you face on earth?

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.

Jesus Does Not Avoid Death – March 16, 2022

2022/03/16/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

At that time some Pharisees came to Jesus and said to him, “Leave this place and go somewhere else. Herod wants to kill you.” He replied, “Go tell that fox, ‘I will keep on driving out demons and healing people today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will reach my goal.’ In any case, I must press on today and tomorrow and the next day—for surely no prophet can die outside Jerusalem!”
Luke 13:31-33

Jesus Does Not Avoid Death

Daily Devotion – March 16, 2022

Devotion based on Luke 13:31-33

See series: Devotions

I know a man who heard from his national government that a local mob was coming for him and that the government couldn’t protect him. That man’s brother-in-law had already been kidnapped by a mob, so the man knew that he should take the warning seriously. He decided to leave temporarily. It is still not safe for him to return.

Jesus had a similar situation, only in his case, it was the national government that was wanting to kill him. Instead of running away, Jesus chose to go toward the seat of the national government and continue his work on the way. Why would he make a choice like that?

Jesus gives a hint to his motives when he talks about reaching his goal in three days. Jesus knew that the only way he would fulfill the prophecies about him would be to die and then rise to life again on the third day. Jesus did not avoid death. He walked right into it because he knew that by his death and resurrection, he would provide eternal life to everyone who believes in him.

One day we will all come face to face with death. Thankfully, Jesus has done everything in his power to give us eternal life when our time for death eventually comes.

Prayer:
Jesus, give me the confidence to face death and enter eternal life with you. Amen.

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

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

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

Glory Is on the Way – March 15, 2022

2022/03/15/in Daily Devotions, Devotions

Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Philippians 3:20,21

Glory Is on the Way

Daily Devotion – March 15, 2022

Devotion based on Philippians 3:20,21

See series: Devotions

I wish I had a body like the Olympic athletes have. It would be so nice to be able to ski or skate or sled the way they do. I have to admit that my body is more lowly. I have limits and aches and pains.

Thankfully, it won’t always be that way. The apostle Paul tells me that my citizenship is in heaven. In other words, heaven is where I really belong. It is a citizenship won for me by Jesus. He is the Savior of my soul, but he is also the Savior of my body.

Jesus has a real human body. It separated from his soul when he died, but when his body and soul came back together, he rose from the dead. He has a body now that is ageless and perfect.

Jesus promises that my soul and body will also be together in eternity, even if they have separated in death. I have a lowly body now, always in training and decline. But due to my citizenship in heaven, glory for my body is on the way. Someday it will be ageless and perfect, just like the glorious body of Jesus. I can hardly wait.

Prayer:
Lord Jesus Christ, give me the strength to persevere with this lowly body until you make it a glorious body with you in heaven. Amen.

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

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

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

Back to the Basics – Week of March 14, 2022

2022/03/14/in Devotions, ECME Devotions

Back to the Basics – Week of March 14, 2022

Our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body. Therefore, my brothers, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, that is how you should stand firm in the Lord, dear friends!
Philippians 3:20-4:1

ECME Devotion March 14, 2022

See series: ECME Devotions

Have you ever heard the term “the summer slide”? It’s the regression that takes place in students after a few months of vacation from school. Simple skills like holding a pencil, using a scissors, or even writing one’s own name can seem difficult!

After the first few weeks back to school, it is fun to see how quickly the students remaster the tasks they once knew. They pick up pencils, cut with scissors, and write their names just as they did before. They hadn’t truly forgotten, but they needed to be reminded. They’ve got the basics down once again!

We see a similar situation unfolding here in Philippians. Paul loves this congregation dearly. He goes as far as to call them “my joy and crown”. Like any loving teacher, he offers them some much needed encouragement and a refresher course on the truths of their Savior. They needed to be reminded and Pastor Paul brings them back to the basics.

The Philippians were facing persecution and their present circumstances were causing doubt and fear to linger. There were others around them who were losing their faith. Knowing this, Paul not only assures his beloved congregation that they can stand firm in their faith, but he also gives them some pretty incredible evidence of why:

Future glory is greater than any present circumstance.
Jesus is coming back to bring us to our true home, heaven.
Jesus has power and control over absolutely everything.
Jesus will transform our lowly bodies into perfect and eternal bodies.

Just like a teacher returning from summer vacation, Paul powerfully reminds the Philippians of truths they already know. He encourages them to go back to the basics of who Jesus is- their perfect Savior.

Don’t we need the same thing today? In this world, with its noise and lies, it can be easy to forget God’s promises and begin to doubt his faithfulness. Most things are changing at rapid speed, and we can quickly get caught up in all of the complicated mess. Praise the Lord that when we return to his Word, we find the same basic truths, unchanged and forever offering the reassurance we need to stand firm in the Lord!

Prayer

Heavenly Father, guide us to remember the truth you have taught us. Help us run to your Word and promises when we get lost in this world. We praise you for being our constant anchor throughout our lives. Grant us peace. Amen

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

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

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

WELS CENTER FOR MISSION AND MINISTRY

Read: Isaiah 12:1-6

Someone Who Likes To Be Praised

Closing Prayer:

Mind Over Matter

The Perfect Sinner

Christmas in…. March? – Week of March 28, 2022

ECME Devotion March 28, 2022

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Read: Luke 15:11-32

Lost and Found

Closing Prayer:

Pardoned

Autopilots of Life

Freedom

Read: 1 Corinthians 10:1-13

There’s Always a Way Out

Closing Prayer:

Zion redeemed – March 25, 2022

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Sparking Joy

Security Alarm

Read: Exodus 3:1-15

Exactly What We Need

Closing Prayer:

Standing on Unshakeable Ground

A Lesson in Gratitude

Read: Luke 13:1-9

Help in Doing Good

Closing Prayer:

Dare to be Dependent – Week of March 21, 2022

ECME Devotion March 21, 2022

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True Security

The Difference

Our Citizenship

Read: Luke 13:31-33

No Shortcuts

Closing Prayer:

A gory God – March 18, 2022

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Bless Him Whenever You See Him

He Will Cover You With His Wings

Read: Philippians 3:17-4:1

Heaven Is My Home

Closing Prayer:

Jesus Does Not Avoid Death

Glory Is on the Way

Back to the Basics – Week of March 14, 2022

ECME Devotion March 14, 2022

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