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Read: Matthew 16:13-20

“But what about you?” [Jesus] asked. “Who do you say I am?” Simon Peter answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.” Matthew 16:15-16

The One Word for Jesus

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

If someone asked you what Jesus means to you, how would you answer? Could you answer in one word?

A classic devotional book has eleven chapters to explain what Jesus means to the author. Jesus means . . . Life, Pardon, Peace, Power, Provision, Companionship, Hope, Truth, Assurance, Joy, and Heaven. That is quite a list—and every word tells us something wonderful about Jesus!

People in Jesus’ day were still figuring out who he was and what he meant for them. Some thought he was one of the great prophets who had come back to life. Some hoped he might become a powerful earthly king who would free the nation of Israel. Most were wrong. They may have said impressive things about Jesus, but they still did not understand who he really was.

Then Jesus made the question personal. “But what about you?” he asked his disciples. “Who do you say I am?” By God’s grace, Peter got it right. He said, “You, yes you, Jesus are the Messiah, God’s chosen Savior, the Son of the living God.” If we could boil what Jesus meant to Peter down to one word, it would be, “Savior.”

But Peter’s answer was not just his personal opinion about Jesus. Peter confessed the truth God had revealed: Jesus really is the Savior. What we think about Jesus does not change who he is. Even when people misunderstand or reject him, Jesus remains the Messiah and the Son of God.

What about you? You don’t have to boil down what Jesus means to you in just one word. It’s helpful to explain a little further. Jesus is the Savior because he saves us from our sins. As the promised Messiah, he became truly human. He could stand in our place, obey God’s law for us, suffer our punishment, and die our death. But Jesus is also the Son of the living God. He is truly God, equal to the Father. Because of that he could save us from our sins and promise to bring us into his true, heavenly kingdom.

That is why all those other words fit Jesus too. He is our pardon because he forgives us. He is our peace because he makes us right with God. He is our hope because he rose from the dead. He is our life because he will raise us to live with him forever.

But if you had to choose just one word, “Savior” says it best. Who do you say Jesus is? By God’s grace, you can confess with Peter: “Jesus is my Savior, the Son of the living God!”

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you mean so much as the Savior for sinners. Help us always build our lives on you and what you mean to us. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Who did Peter say Jesus is?
• Which word about Jesus do you like best: Life, Peace, Hope, Joy, or Savior? Why?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How would you answer if someone asked you, “Who is Jesus?”
• Draw a cross. Around it, draw or write things Jesus gives you, such as forgiveness, peace, hope, and heaven.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• People in Jesus’ day had several impressive but incorrect ideas about him. What incomplete or incorrect ideas about Jesus do people have today?
• Imagine that a friend asks, “What does Jesus mean to you?” Choose one word and prepare a three-sentence answer that explains both who Jesus is and what he has done for you.

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Read: Exodus 34:5-9

Moses bowed to the ground at once and worshiped. “Lord,” he said, “if I have found favor in your eyes, then let the Lord go with us. Although this is a stiff-necked people, forgive our wickedness and our sin, and take us as your inheritance.” Exodus 34:8-9

Worst Road Trip Ever

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

There’s a whole web page devoted to the worst road trips ever. One person talks about their family vehicle getting stuck in a foot and a half of mud on a dirt road in the desert in New Mexico. They camped out in the desert, waiting for two days for someone to help. While they waited, one of the family members got a fever and started throwing up. When someone finally helped them pull the vehicle out of the mud, they found out their vehicle could only drive 45 mph all the way home.

What do you think—if they had invited you to join them on that road trip, would you have said, “Yes! I’d love to go with you!” I don’t think so!

Traveling with the Israelites in the wilderness after Moses brought them out of Egypt was like going on the worst road trip ever. It wasn’t really the lack of food and water and the poisonous snakes that were the problem; it was the people! They whined and complained the whole trip! They even stopped trusting the Lord who had rescued them from slavery. Because of their stubborn sin, the Lord warned them, “I won’t take this. I’m not going with you.”

Traveling through life hasn’t gotten any easier since the days of the Israelites. Our biggest problem isn’t what happens along the way. Often, the biggest problem is inside us. We are naturally whiners and complainers like the Israelites. We don’t trust God as much as we should and we don’t thank him as much as we could. We can be “stiff-necked”—too stubborn to bow our heads, listen to God, and follow where he leads. Why would the Lord travel through life with people like us?

But he does! Not because of what we’re like, but because of what he’s like. That’s why Moses, and we, can pray, “Lord, please come with us!” If one of our notable features is that we’re stiff-necked, then the most notable feature about the Lord is that he is gracious and compassionate to people like us. He is slow to anger and abounding in love and faithfulness. He’s exactly the kind of person who would agree to come on a road trip with people like us. And the best news is that Jesus promises to be with you always. He travels every mile with you—loving you, forgiving you, guiding you, and bringing you safely home to heaven.

With Jesus beside you, even if on a difficult road, he always leads to the best destination ever.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you promise to be with us always. Forgive us for our stubborn hearts and lead us through life to our heavenly home. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What is the name of the leader God used to bring the Israelites out of Egypt?
• What are some things you complain about?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• “Stiff-necked” means stubbornly refusing to listen or follow. How did the Israelites act stiff-necked?
• Why does Jesus stay with us even though we are sinful and stubborn?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How is your life of faith similar to a long, difficult road trip?
• Think of your life as a road map. What have been two or three important stops so far? How was Jesus caring for you at each one?

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Read: Ephesians 2:13-22

But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ. For he himself is our peace, who has made the two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility, by setting aside in his flesh the law with its commands and regulations. His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility. He came and preached peace to you who were far away and peace to those who were near. For through him we both have access to the Father by one Spirit. Ephesians 2:13-18

Get Away From Me!

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

When you’re mad at someone, you often try to avoid them. Just the sight of them can make your stomach turn. If they keep bugging you, you might say, “Get away from me!” and go to your room and shut the door. The last thing you want to do is be near them.

But sometimes getting closer can help bring people back together.

When brothers or sisters are fighting, parents sometimes sit them down together and help them talk. At first, neither one may even want to look at the other. Each one thinks, “It’s their fault!” But as they talk, they may begin to understand each other. Eventually, they can say two very important things: “I’m sorry.” “I forgive you.”

Ephesians 2 talks about how two groups of people who didn’t get along: the Jews and the Gentiles. “Gentiles” was the name used for everyone who wasn’t Jewish. The Jews often looked down on the Gentiles because the Gentiles didn’t follow God’s Old Testament laws. The Gentiles often disliked the Jews too. A wall of anger stood between them.

What was God’s solution in their hostility? He brought both groups together at Jesus’ cross. Ephesians says that God would “reconcile both of them to God through the cross.” To “reconcile” means to bring people who were separated back together in peace. Both groups had sinned. Neither group could point at the other and say, “We are better than you!” Both groups needed the same Savior, and Jesus gave his life for all of them. At the cross, Jews and Gentiles could see that they were equally sinful—and equally forgiven. They were equally loved by God and equally important to him. Jesus tore down the wall of anger and made them members of one family.

Jesus brought enemies near to himself—and that changed how they saw one another.

If you’re mad at someone today, you may need a little time to calm down. But don’t build a wall and decide that you will stay angry forever. Meet that person at the cross. Remember: “Jesus forgave me, and Jesus loves this person too.” Then ask Jesus to help you take the first step toward peace. Perhaps that step is saying, “I’m sorry,” “I forgive you,” or “Can we talk?”

Jesus brings us near to God—and helps us come near to one another.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for bringing me near to God and giving me peace through the cross. Help me do my best to live at peace with those around me. 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 two groups of people weren’t getting along in Ephesians 2? What name was used for people who were not Jewish?
• Name several countries far away from where you live. After each one, say together, “Jesus died for people in _____ too!”

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why is it easy to think, “I’m right, and the other person is wrong,” when we are angry?
• What does the word “reconcile” mean? How did Jesus reconcile both Jews and Gentiles to God?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Imagine that you and a friend are angry with each other. What could you say or do to take the first step toward peace?
• Why can remembering “Jesus forgave me too” help you stay calm during an argument?

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Read: Matthew 14:22-33

Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” Matthew 14:31

When You Start to Sink

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

Peter was doing it. He was really doing it. The wind was blowing. The waves were splashing. The boat was bouncing around like a rubber duck in a bathtub. And Peter was walking on top of the water toward Jesus.

That isn’t normal! People can walk on sidewalks, grass, and through puddles if they are wearing the right shoes. But people do not walk on top of lakes during storms. Unless Jesus tells them to do it.

At first, Peter trusted Jesus’ directions. Jesus said, “Come,” and Peter stepped out of the boat. But then Peter noticed the wind. He saw the waves. He felt the storm. And suddenly, the storm looked bigger than Jesus. And Peter began to sink.

That can happen to us, too. God’s Word says Jesus is with us. God’s Word says our sins are forgiven. God’s Word says our Father in heaven hears our prayers. But then we notice the “wind and waves.” Maybe it’s a friendship that suddenly feels shaky. Maybe it’s the dark room at bedtime. Maybe it’s the question you’re nervous to ask. Maybe it’s the “what if?” that keeps splashing around in your mind. And suddenly, the storm of life feels bigger than our Savior.

What you do in that moment of fear and panic is important. You can try with all your might to stay on top of the water or do your best to swim. But those won’t cut it. You’re still going to find yourself sinking deeper and deeper until . . . gone. Lost under the waves of sin, shame, fear, and guilt.

But look what Jesus did. Peter cried out, “Lord, save me!” And immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. Not after a moment; immediately. Jesus did not stand there and shout, “Peter, try harder.” He did not say, “Peter, swim back by yourself.” Jesus reached for him. Jesus caught him. Jesus saved him.

That is what Jesus does for doubting, sinking sinners. He reaches out with his Word. He reaches out with his promises. He reaches out with the forgiveness he won by his cross and empty tomb. He reached out to you in the waters of your Baptism, where he washed you clean and saved you from drowning in the depths of your sin.

Christians are not different because they never feel afraid. Christians are different because, when fear rises and faith feels weak, they know who to call. “Lord, save me!” And Jesus does.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, when fear and doubt make us feel like we are sinking, help us call out to you. Thank you for reaching out to save us with your strong and gracious love. 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

• Pretend your hand is sinking down into water. Now use your other hand to catch it. Who caught Peter?
• When can you say Peter’s prayer, “Lord, save me!”?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Peter saw the wind and waves and became afraid. What “wind and waves” can make kids feel afraid today?
• Why is the word “immediately” such a comforting word in this story?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What is the difference between pretending storms are not real and trusting Jesus in the middle of them?
• When faith feels weak, why is “Lord, save me!” still a strong prayer?

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Read: 1 Kings 19:9-18

And after the fire came a gentle whisper. When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 1 Kings 19:12-13

You’re Not Alone

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

Amelia sat on the back porch with her backpack still on. When her dad asked what was wrong, she said, with tears in her eyes, “Nobody wanted to play with me today!”

Now, that wasn’t completely true. Her best friend Ruth was home, sick. Her teacher complimented her on her last writing assignment. Her big brother even saved her a seat on the bus. And now her dad was sitting next to her, asking what was wrong. But Amelia still felt alone.

Sometimes our feelings point to something real. Amelia really did feel like she had a hard day. But other times, our feelings don’t tell the whole story. Even though Amelia felt alone, she needed someone to remind her, “You’re not as alone as you feel.”

Elijah had spoken God’s Word, just like he was supposed to. But many people didn’t listen. The wicked queen, Jezebel, wanted to kill him. So, Elijah ran away. He was tired, scared, and felt like he was the only one who loved the Lord.

But that’s why God asked him: “What are you doing here, Elijah?” So . . . Elijah told him how he felt! The people have turned away, torn down God’s altars, and killed God’s prophets. “I am the only one left!” cried Elijah.

But that wasn’t true. God told Elijah to stand on the mountain. A powerful wind came. It was strong enough to tear rocks apart! But the Lord was not in the wind. Then the ground shook in an earthquake. But the Lord wasn’t in that, either. Then came a fire. But you guessed it, the Lord was not in the fire.

After the fire came a gentle whisper. That is where God came to Elijah with his quiet Word and his promise: “You’re not alone, Elijah.”

Elijah felt alone, but God showed him the truth. “You’re not alone.”

God says the same to you in his Word. You may feel unseen, but God sees you. You may feel forgotten, but God remembers you. You may feel alone, but God is with you.

Jesus proves it. He came to be with sinners, die for sinners, and rise for sinners. He’s the one who promised he would be with you always, until the very end.

Listen to God’s gentle whisper in his Word. You are not alone. Your Savior is with you.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, when we feel afraid or alone, help us listen to your Word and trust your promises. Thank you for staying with us and sending Jesus to keep all your promises. 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

• Use your loudest whisper to say, “God is with me.”
• Point to someone in the room. How does that person remind you that God gives you people who care about you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Elijah thought he was the only one left who loved the Lord. What did God tell him that he did not know?
• Draw two pictures: one of Elijah feeling alone, and one of Elijah hearing God’s promise. What changed?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why might God’s “gentle whisper” be a better answer to doubt than wind, earthquake, or fire?
• When someone feels alone in their faith, what promises from God’s Word would be helpful to hear?

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Read: Ephesians 1:3-10

For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us for adoption to sonship through Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:4-5a

Picked on Purpose

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

Let’s all admit it feels good to be picked for something. Maybe you get picked to be the line leader at school, or you get picked to help make cookies. Maybe your coach picks you to take the first kick in soccer. Or maybe someone picks you to choose the movie for family movie night, which is a very big responsibility. Use that power wisely!

But not being picked can really hurt. When everyone else gets chosen first, and you’re the only one left, it can make you feel small, forgotten, or not important.

But did you catch something in today’s Scripture? Something amazing? God picked you.

The thing is, God didn’t pick you the way people sometimes pick teams at recess. He wasn’t looking for the fastest runner, the strongest kid, or the person who knew all the rules perfectly. God did not choose you because you were better than someone else. God picked you in Jesus. And he picked you on purpose.

Paul, who wrote the book of Ephesians, says God chose his people “before the creation of the world.” That means before there were mountains to climb, oceans to swim in, puppies to cuddle, pizza to eat, stars to gaze at, or even one bug crawling on the ground, God already knew you. God already loved you. God already had a plan to bring you into his family through Jesus.

Why would God do that? The answer is “grace.” Grace means that God loved you in Jesus, not because you earned it or deserved it. Not because you won a contest or passed a test. You didn’t impress God be being better than everyone else. God’s grace, shown through Jesus’ perfect life, innocent death, and victorious resurrection, is the reason he chose you. Because of Jesus, you are redeemed, forgiven, and richly blessed as a member of God’s family.

Sometimes people wonder, “Does God really care about me?” Ephesians gives us the answer: YES—absolutely! God’s love for you didn’t just start yesterday; it didn’t start when you were born. It didn’t even start when the world began. God chose you in Christ before the world began.

So, when you feel like the last person waiting to be picked, remember this: You are not forgotten; you are not an accident. You are not someone God barely noticed. In Jesus, you are picked on purpose—for his purpose—and you will always belong to him.

Prayer:

Dear Father, thank you for choosing us in Jesus and making us your children. When we feel forgotten or unimportant, help us remember your love that began before the world was made. 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

• Act it out: Show what your face might look like when someone picks you for something special.
• Finish this sentence together: “In Jesus, God ________ me!”

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Name one time when being picked for something made you feel happy. Why did it feel good?
• What does the word “grace” mean? And how does remembering that help when you feel left out or forgotten?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How is being chosen by God different from being chosen for a team, award, or position?
• How does knowing you were chosen in Christ “before the creation of the world” help answer the fear that God might forget you?

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Read: Matthew 13:44-52

[Jesus said] “The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” Matthew 13:44-46

Something Better Than Buried Treasure

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

Imagine trying to count the value of everything you own: your clothes, toys, books, games, bike, electronics, and everything in your room. The total might surprise you! If you guessed that everything you own is worth $5,000, the real number might be closer to $15,000. Now imagine someone asking you to trade all of it—every last thing—for one treasure. What treasure could possibly be worth that much?

In two short parables Jesus told of people who sold everything they had to obtain one thing. One man discovered treasure hidden in a field. Another man found an incredibly valuable pearl. Both of them gladly sold everything they owned to make that treasure theirs. Jesus was teaching us about a treasure even greater than a chest of gold or a priceless pearl: the kingdom of heaven. Nothing we own can compare with belonging to God’s kingdom.

God’s kingdom is King Jesus ruling in our hearts. Jesus may not promise us expensive clothes, a fancy house, or thousands of online followers. He promises something infinitely better—eternal things. He forgives every sin. He will raise the dead on the Last Day. He has opened heaven for all who believe in him.

Be honest: would you sometimes rather have Jesus give you a new phone, a giant flatscreen, or a bigger house instead of invisible gifts like forgiveness and heaven? Our sinful hearts are easily excited by shiny new things. But how long do those things stay new? Today’s newest phone will eventually stop working. The biggest screen will be replaced by an even bigger one. Toys break. Clothes wear out. Games become boring. But the kingdom of heaven will never grow outdated, never wear out, and never be surpassed.

A man named James Howells accidentally threw away a computer hard drive containing $800 million worth of bitcoin. He tried to buy the landfill for $73 million to search for it. His request was denied. Imagine knowing that your treasure was buried somewhere underneath a mountain of garbage! He was willing to spend a fortune trying to recover it, but he could not get it back.

Thankfully, the treasure Jesus gives can never be buried in a landfill, lost underneath the bed, stolen by a thief, or accidentally thrown away. We did not have to sell everything to purchase it. We couldn’t purchase it—even if we owned all the money in the world. Jesus gave up everything to make that treasure yours. He left heaven, carried your sins, and won for you a place in God’s kingdom forever.

Jesus doesn’t want your stuff; he only wants your heart so he can teach it to say, “Jesus, you are my treasure.”

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, help us treasure your kingdom above all things. Forgive us when we love our possessions more than we love you. Keep our hearts fixed on your forgiveness, your promises, and the eternal life you have won for us. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What is a treasure? (hint: a favorite thing that you own)
• What is the greatest treasure that God has given to you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What did the two men in Jesus’ parables find? What were they willing to give up to have it?
• What kind of treasure would be so valuable that you would gladly give up all your toys, games, and electronics to have it?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How can you tell when something you own has become too important to your heart?
• Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21). What might the way you spend your time, attention, and money reveal about your treasure?

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At Gibeon the LORD appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and God said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you.” Solomon answered, “You have shown great kindness to your servant, my father David, because he was faithful to you and righteous and upright in heart. You have continued this great kindness to him and have given him a son to sit on his throne this very day. “Now, LORD my God, you have made your servant king in place of my father David. But I am only a little child and do not know how to carry out my duties. Your servant is here among the people you have chosen, a great people, too numerous to count or number. So give your servant a discerning heart to govern your people and to distinguish between right and wrong. For who is able to govern this great people of yours?” The Lord was pleased that Solomon had asked for this. So God said to him, “Since you have asked for this and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have asked for the death of your enemies but for discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. 1 Kings 3:5-12

Pray for Your Heart to Have Ears

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

Imagine someone handing you their Venmo app and saying, “Write down any amount you want!” Nobody would really do that, would they? But that is a little like what the Lord God offered young King Solomon—only better. During the early days of Solomon’s reign over Israel, God appeared to him in a dream and said, “Ask for whatever you want me to give you” (1 Kings 3:5).

Imagine the possibilities! The sinner inside all of us gets excited at the thought of being able to ask God for anything knowing he will give it to us. What would you ask for? More money? A giant house? Straight A’s? To be famous? Your dream vacation? Or maybe for someone who hurt you to get what you think they deserve?

Solomon could have asked for any of those things—and more. But he didn’t. Instead, Solomon asked God for “a hearing heart” (1 Kings 3:9). What a strange prayer! Hearts don’t hear; ears do. Yet Solomon understood something important. The greatest treasure God could give him was not wealth, power, or fame. It was a heart that listened to God.

God gave Solomon exactly what he asked for, “I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be” (1 Kings 3:12). The Lord blessed Solomon with amazing wisdom because he had asked for something far more valuable than riches, power, or success.

None of us will ever need the kind of wisdom required to rule God’s chosen nation. You probably won’t need to settle arguments between thousands of people or make decisions for an entire country! Yet there is greater wisdom than knowing how to govern. The wisest thing anyone can do is listen to God’s Word and trust its promises. That is what makes followers of Jesus different from the rest of the world.

The Holy Spirit has given us a new heart—one that has ears to listen to what God tells us in his Word. We listen humbly when God shows us that something we have done is sinful—even when we don’t want to admit it. We listen joyfully when God forgives every one of our sins through Jesus. We listen thankfully when God guides us in ways that show love for him and for our neighbor.

When God opened the doors of his goodness to Solomon, Solomon’s response was simple: “Give me a hearing heart.” One of the wisest prayers we can pray is this: “Lord, give me a heart that listens to you.”

Prayer:

Dear Lord, give us hearing hearts that gladly listen to your Word. Help us trust your promises and follow your wisdom every day. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• If you could ask for one special gift, what would you ask for?
• What did Solomon ask God to give him?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is a “hearing heart”?
• Someone commented, “Solomon’s request already showed God had begun answering his prayer.” What did they mean? How did his request show wisdom?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• If God told you, “Ask for whatever you want,” what might your first request reveal about your heart?
• How do we show that we have a “hearing heart” when God shows us our sins and points us to Jesus for forgiveness?

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Read: Romans 1:18-25

For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened. They exchanged the truth about God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator—who is forever praised. Amen. Romans 1:20-21,25

The Giver

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

Think of the favorite gift you received on your last birthday. Who gave it to you? Your mom or dad? Your grandma or grandpa? A favorite aunt or uncle?

Now imagine something funny. Let’s pretend you received a new video game console. You spent hours mastering the games. You maybe even lost some sleep before your mom or dad asked you to shut it down for bedtime. Here’s a silly question: Did the video game console ever tell you, “I love you!”? Did it ever give you a hug when you were sad? Did it ever thank you for playing it? Of course not. It’s just a video game! Those who gave you the game, however, love you very much! More important than the gift is the giver—the person who gave it to you. Imagine how sad your parents or grandparents would feel if you cared more about the present than about them.

Every birthday gift, every Christmas gift—in fact, everything you have comes from one Giver—God. He gave us the things we can see like food to eat, clothes to wear, homes to live in, and so much more. He gave us things like a beautiful sunset, music to enjoy, minds that can learn new things, and bodies that can run, jump, and play As wonderful as God’s gifts are, none of them can love us back. But the Giver can. Even better, the Giver loves us so much that he gave us his only Son to forgive our sins and open heaven to us once again.

Unfortunately, people often make a mistake. They begin to love the gifts more than the Giver. The apostle Paul tells us, “For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him” (Romans 1:21). God’s creation should lead us to honor and thank him. Instead, sinners become so focused on God’s gifts that they forget the Giver. That’s called sin, and sin deserves God’s punishment. Paul warns that “the wrath of God is being revealed against all the godlessness and wickedness of people” (Romans 1:18).

Yet God did not stop loving those who loved his gifts more than him. The Giver gave the greatest gift of all—Jesus. Jesus perfectly honored his Father and took our idolatry to the cross. Because of Jesus, our sins are forgiven. Through faith, we learn to love the Giver above all his gifts.

Paul ends by saying that God is “forever praised” (Romans 1:25). Why? Because God didn’t leave us in our sins. He gave us Jesus! The Giver gave us the best gift—Jesus, the Savior from sin.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, forgive us when we love your gifts more than we love you. Help us honor and thank you as the Giver of every good thing. 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 is the Giver of every good thing we have?
• Why can’t a video game love you back?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Can you name five gifts that God has given you today?
• Which gift from God are you most thankful for right now? Why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Paul says people forgot to thank God. Why do you think it’s easy to enjoy God’s gifts but forget to thank him?
• Agree or disagree: The created world we live in provides enough evidence to know that God exists. Explain your answer.

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Read: Matthew 13:1-9,18-23

[Jesus said] “A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. Matthew 13:3-8

Seeds Everywhere!

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

Imagine your family gave you a packet of flower seeds and said, “Don’t waste these!” You would probably be careful, right? You’d plant them in good dirt. You wouldn’t throw them onto the driveway. You wouldn’t toss them into a pile of rocks. You definitely wouldn’t scatter them into a patch of weeds. That would be silly!

But in Jesus’ story, that’s exactly what the farmer does. He throws seed everywhere. Some lands on the path. Some lands on rocky ground. Some lands among thorns. Some lands on good soil.

At first, it almost seems like the farmer is being careless. But Jesus is teaching us something important. In this parable, the seed is God’s Word—the good news about Jesus.

And the farmer is God. God doesn’t keep his Word locked away or only share it with a few people. He spreads it everywhere. Some people hear God’s Word and ignore it. Some people get excited about it for a little while but then drift away. Some people let other things become more important than Jesus. But some people hear God’s Word, trust in Jesus, and their faith grows strong. That’s the good soil. And when God’s Word grows in someone’s heart, amazing things happen: Faith grows. Lives change. People learn about Jesus. Others hear the gospel too. Just think, one little seed can produce a huge harvest!

This parable teaches us how we should share God’s Word. Sometimes we wait for the “perfect” moment. Sometimes we’re afraid someone won’t listen. Sometimes we think, “What if they don’t care?” But Jesus tells us to keep planting. Keep inviting. Keep sharing. Keep talking about Jesus. We don’t have to figure out which hearts are good soil, and which aren’t. That’s God’s job. Our job is simply to scatter the seed. And because God’s Word is powerful, we know it is never wasted.

The farmer in Jesus’ story wasn’t careless. He was generous. And God is generous too. He keeps planting his Word in our hearts and in the hearts of others because he wants many people to know the love and forgiveness found in Jesus. So don’t be afraid to share God’s Word. You never know when God is growing a harvest that is bigger than you can imagine!

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, thank you for planting your Word in our hearts. Let your Word root deeply in us so that we may bear fruit for your kingdom. 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

• Where did some of the farmer’s seed land? What does the seed represent in Jesus’ story?
• What happened to the seed that landed on good soil?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think the farmer scattered seed everywhere instead of only putting it in the good soil?
• What does this story teach us about our job and God’s job when we share the gospel?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• The farmer kept scattering seed even though he knew some would not grow. What does that teach us about God’s love for people and about the way Christians should share the gospel?
• Have you ever invited someone to church, Sunday school, or vacation Bible school? What happened?

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Read: Isaiah 55:6-11

As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth and making it bud and flourish, so that it yields seed for the sower and bread for the eater, so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:10-11

God’s Word Always Works

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

Have you ever planted a seed? Maybe it was a bean seed in a cup at school or a flower seed in a garden. What would happen if that seed never got any water? It would stay dry. It wouldn’t grow. But when it rains or someone waters it, something amazing happens. Little roots begin to grow. A tiny plant pushes up through the dirt. Before long, there are leaves, flowers, or even food to eat.

A science teacher might call this part of the water cycle. Water goes up into the clouds and then comes back down as rain or snow. You don’t have to remember any big science words to know something important: God sends water, and water does what God wants it to do. Rain helps flowers bloom. Water helps crops grow. Animals need water to live. People need water to drink.

God sends water for a reason, and it does its job.

God says his Word works the same way. When God’s Word is shared, read, taught, or preached, it always does something. Sometimes God’s Word helps someone believe in Jesus. Sometimes God’s Word helps a Christian grow stronger in faith.

Sometimes God’s Word shows a person that they are doing something wrong and need God’s forgiveness. Sometimes people don’t want to listen to God’s Word at all. But no matter what happens, God’s Word is never wasted. God promises that his Word will always do exactly what he wants it to do.

That means we can tell people about Jesus without being afraid. We don’t have to wonder, “Will this matter?” We don’t have to think, “Maybe sharing Jesus is a waste of time.” God says it isn’t. His Word is living and active. His Word is powerful. His Word works.

And God’s Word doesn’t leave us empty either. Because of Jesus, we are forgiven. Because of Jesus, heaven is our home. Because of Jesus, we have peace with God. Since God has filled our hearts with joy, peace, and hope, we can gladly share that same good news with others.

Who knows? God can use his powerful Word to fill their hearts too!

Prayer:

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for giving us your powerful Word that always accomplishes your good purpose. May we trust its power to create and strengthen faith in us and those with whom we share it. Bless everyone who hears your Word, and through your Holy Spirit bring many people to trust in their Savior. 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 happens to plants when they get the rain and water they need?
• What does God say his Word always does?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why do you think God compares his Word to rain and snow?
• Have you ever told someone about Jesus or invited someone to church? What was that like?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• If someone doesn’t want to listen when we talk about Jesus, does that mean God’s Word failed? Why not?
• God promises that his Word will always accomplish his purpose. How does that promise help us be brave when we share our faith with others?

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Read: Romans 7:15-25

Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! Romans 7:24-25a (ESV)

Jesus Does What I Can’t

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

At seven years old, on the way home from church, Matt sat in the back seat of the car and proudly announced to his parents that he wasn’t going to sin anymore. Both of his parents chuckled, and his dad told him that he hoped he was right.

Matt’s promise was short-lived. After arriving home, he didn’t like what his mom made for lunch and complained about it. Shortly after lunch, he and his brother had to go to timeout for fighting over Legos. Then before bed, he got in trouble again for sneaking cookies after he brushed his teeth.

Matt really did mean it when he told his parents he wasn’t going to sin anymore. But by the end of the day, he had already broken his promise several times!

Have you ever told yourself that you weren’t going to sin anymore only to find yourself still doing wrong things? Maybe you promised not to argue with your brother or sister. Maybe you said you would stop complaining or always obey your parents right away. But sometimes we still do the wrong thing, even when we don’t want to.

That happened to the apostle Paul too. He loved God and wanted to do what was right. But he still struggled with sin. That is why he cried out, “Wretched man that I am! Who will deliver me from this body of death?” (Romans 7:24).

Notice what Paul does not ask. He doesn’t ask, “How can I try harder?” or “What rules can I follow to fix myself?” He asks, “Who will rescue me?” Paul knew he needed more than self-control. He needed a Savior. A deliverer.

And then Paul gives the answer: “Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:25).

Your peace with God does not depend on you finally getting it right. It depends entirely on Jesus who already got it right for you. The harder you try to save yourself, the more tired you become. The more you trust Jesus, the more rest you find.

Jesus does what we can’t. True rest begins when you reach the end of yourself and find Christ waiting there. So, rest in Jesus!

Prayer:

Lord Jesus, we confess that the good we want to do, we so often fail to do. Forgive us for trying to rely on our own strength. Thank you, that getting to heaven doesn’t depend on what we do for you, but on what you have already done for us. Give us true peace, knowing that we are safe in your loving hands. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• In the Bible verse, Paul asks who will rescue him from his mistakes, and then he says, “Thanks be to God through . . .” Who is the Savior Paul is thanking?
• Have you ever tried really hard to be good (like sharing your toys or listening right away) but still made a mistake? How does it feel to know that Jesus always forgives you and loves you anyway?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why couldn’t Paul save himself from his sin?
• Paul didn’t ask for a checklist of rules to fix himself but instead asked who would rescue him. Why is looking to a person (Jesus) better than just trying to follow a checklist of rules when we mess up?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• True or False: We are both a sinner and a saint at the same time.
• Sometimes Christians keep struggling with the same sins. How does knowing that Jesus has already forgiven you help you avoid giving up or feeling hopeless?

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Read: Matthew 10:34-42

[Jesus said] “Anyone who loves their father or mother more than me is not worthy of me; anyone who loves their son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. Whoever does not take up their cross and follow me is not worthy of me. Whoever finds their life will lose it, and whoever loses their life for my sake will find it. “Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me, and anyone who welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.” Matthew 10:37-40,42

Who Is Number One?

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

It is an uncomfortable situation. You are with your friends. All of a sudden your time together has turned from harmless fun to harmful wrong. Here are some examples:

• Everyone else seems fine with messing with a neighbor’s lawn decorations and stealing them, but what are you going to do?
• Or maybe you are home with your older siblings, and they want to watch a certain movie or play a video game that the folks have said no to. What do you do?
• Or maybe everyone in class is laughing at someone, and you know it isn’t kind. What do you do?

Sometimes, following Jesus means making difficult, uncomfortable and unpopular choices. In today’s reading, Jesus says something that sounds truly frightening: He says he didn’t come to bring peace, but a sword.

These are shocking words from the Prince of Peace. Jesus isn’t talking about hurting people with a real sword. He means that following him can sometimes cause disagreements because not everyone believes the same things about God.

But we know this is sometimes part of our lives as Christians.

Jesus is talking about how following him can sometimes cause “sharp” disagreements, even with people we love, like our family or best friends. He wants us to know that being his disciple means he is “Number One” in our lives—even ahead of our close relationships, favorite hobbies, our sports teams, or our own plans.

Jesus is to be “Number One” in our lives. All the time. In everything. This sounds like a big job, doesn’t it? The truth is, we aren’t very good at putting Jesus first. Certainly not all the time. Sometimes peer pressure gets the better of us. Too often, we just want peace, so we go along with what we know is wrong. But here is the good news: Jesus put you first. Every time. Without fail. Jesus left the perfect peace in heaven and went to the pain and suffering on the cross for you to take away every sin and every time you choose peace over him. Because Jesus loves you perfectly, he gives you the Holy Spirit to help you stand up for what is right.

Now, in faith, we see this in a new light. Jesus tells us, when you put others first—when you help a friend, share your lunch, or tell someone about Jesus—he says it’s like you are doing those things for him! Even something as small as giving a cup of cold water to someone who is thirsty is a big deal to God. Sometimes we think only big things matter. Jesus reminds us that small acts of love matter too.

Live in faith and in the love of the one who put you first; and because Jesus put you first, you can put him first too.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for loving me so much that you put me first and died for my sins. Help me to put you first in my life, even when it’s hard or when my friends don’t understand. Give me a heart that is ready to serve others with kindness. 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

• Jesus says even a simple cup of cold water can make a difference. Why do small acts of kindness matter so much to God?
• Can you think of a small act of kindness someone showed you? How did it make you feel?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why is it sometimes hard to put Jesus first when everyone around us is doing something different?
• Jesus says that whoever welcomes you, welcomes him. How does it make you feel to know that you represent Jesus to the world?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Jesus says, “Whoever loses their life for my sake will find it.” How do we “lose our life” for Jesus in normal, everyday ways?
• If Jesus really is “Number One,” what is one thing our family could do this week to show that together?

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Read: Exodus 32:15-29

He said to Aaron, “What did these people do to you, that you led them into such great sin?” “Do not be angry, my lord,” Aaron answered. “You know how prone these people are to evil. They said to me, ‘Make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who brought us up out of Egypt, we don’t know what has happened to him.’ So I told them, ‘Whoever has any gold jewelry, take it off.’ Then they gave me the gold, and I threw it into the fire, and out came this calf!” Moses saw that the people were running wild and that Aaron had let them get out of control and so become a laughingstock to their enemies. So he stood at the entrance to the camp and said, “Whoever is for the LORD, come to me.” And all the Levites rallied to him. Exodus 32:21-26

The World’s Worst Excuse

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

Have you ever been caught doing something wrong and tried to come up with an excuse really fast? Maybe a broken lamp. A missing cookie. A messy bedroom. Sometimes when we know we did something wrong, we try to think of a reason why it wasn’t really our fault.

Back when schoolwork was done in notebooks and worksheets, the excuse frequently made fun of was the silly, sad lie claiming, “My dog ate my homework.” Most people knew that excuse wasn’t true. But excuses aren’t just for homework. We all make excuses when we don’t want to admit we did something wrong.

When we are young, we may not realize just how wrong our excuses sound. As we age, maybe we get a little wiser in the ways of this sinful world, but still our excuses all fall flat. Because we have a sinful nature, we face a lifetime of struggle with our natural tendency to excuse or minimize our sins. “It wasn’t me. She started it.” “Everybody else was doing it.” “I didn’t mean to.”

How easily these excuses still come to us.

Consider what took place in Exodus 32. Moses came down the mountain with two stone tablets engraved by God himself. On them were written the Ten Commandments. God told Moses what the children of Israel had done while he was meeting with God. The children of Israel had made a golden calf and worshipped it as if the idol had led them out of Egypt.

That sin, like all our sin, is obvious to our all-knowing God. God had done so much for his people, so they would know he loved them and would protect them: the plagues, the Passover, the parting of the sea, a visible presence in cloud by day and fire by night. But still they built an idol and worshiped it. When caught in this sin, how does Aaron, the brother of Moses respond? He blamed others. He minimized the sin and came up with the sad, silly lie: “I threw it in the fire and out came this calf!”

Can you imagine that? Aaron wanted Moses to believe that he tossed some gold into a fire and—poof!—a golden calf just appeared all by itself. It was a pretty ridiculous excuse.

Moses knew from his own life how dangerous it is to make excuses and minimize sin. When the people sinned—and when we sin—God didn’t stop being their God. Instead of answering our excuses, God, in love, gave us the only answer for our sin. God used Moses to call them back. God had promised the people the perfect substitute who would shed his blood so God’s people would go free. Jesus came to be the only answer for our sin. He is our sinless sacrifice. We don’t need excuses, but honesty. Confess our sins and hear God’s forgiveness for us in Jesus. Share it and speak it to one another.

No excuses, just honesty from our holy and loving God.

Prayer:

We thank you, dear God, for the gift of forgiveness we need today and every day. Give us the honesty to confess our sins to you who know them and the confidence to trust our forgiveness by your mercy and grace. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• When is the last time you heard the words, “I forgive you”?
• When is the last time you said the words, “I forgive you”?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why can it sometimes be hard to say, “I was wrong” or “I’m sorry”? What are some of the ways we are reminded of God’s forgiveness in our worship service?
• Is the fact that God knows all things about us sometimes scary, sometimes comforting, or both? Why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Can you recall and talk about with the whole family when being honest and admitting fault right away would have been far better than making excuses?
• God had shown his love in vivid ways to the children of Israel. What are some of the ways you know God has shown his love to you that you can be sure of God’s forgiveness?

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Read: 2 Timothy 4:1-8

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths. I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing. 2 Timothy 4:2-4,7-8

Don’t Scratch the Itch!

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

A man went to the doctor because his ear hurt badly. But the pain wasn’t even the worst part—the itching was! As the doctor examined him, he discovered something awful: there were bugs inside the man’s ear. While the man was sleeping, a fly had laid eggs there. That sounds disgusting, doesn’t it? But what made the problem even worse was this: every time the man scratched his itchy ear, he pushed the bugs farther inside. Scratching the itch only made the problem worse.

When something itches, we really want to scratch it. But Paul says the same thing can happen with God’s Word. Paul wrote a letter to a young pastor named Timothy, warning him that people would someday have “itching ears.” Paul didn’t mean people’s ears would actually itch. He meant people would look for teachers and pastors who would tell them exactly what they wanted to hear. Maybe someone wants to hear that their sins are “not a big deal.” Maybe they want to hear that it doesn’t matter what you believe, as long as you believe something. Maybe they want someone to tell them they never need to forgive others or help hurting people. Paul says people sometimes look for “itch-scratchers”—teachers who make them feel good instead of telling them God’s truth. But scratching an itch doesn’t heal the problem. It only makes it worse.

We all have “itches.” There are parts of God’s Word that are hard for us to hear. Sometimes God tells us to confess sins we don’t want to admit. Sometimes he tells us to forgive someone when we don’t want to. Sometimes he tells us to love people who are difficult to love.

But God doesn’t want teachers who simply scratch our itchy ears. He gives us pastors, teachers, parents, and Christian friends who tell us the truth—even when it’s hard to hear. Why? Because God loves us too much to leave us trapped in sin.

May God give us preachers, not “itch-scratchers!” May they rebuke us when we need it, so our sins don’t destroy our faith, and may they always point us to the great gift of salvation we have in Jesus. That truth may not scratch our itch—but it heals our hearts, opens our ears to truth, and someday, will place a crown of eternal life on our heads!

Prayer:

When my ears itch, O Lord, I want someone to scratch them. Instead, bless me with people who will tell me your true Word. Instead of scratching my itch, heal my heart. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• In today’s devotion, a man’s ear was hurting horribly. Why did scratching make the problem worse?
• Paul talked about “itching ears.” What do you think that means?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• God says people won’t “put up with sound doctrine.” That means they don’t want to hear what God really says. Why do people sometimes want teachers to tell them only what they want to hear?
• Paul said a “crown of righteousness” was waiting for him. What wonderful gift was Paul talking about?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What are some things God says in the Bible that can be hard for us to hear?
• When we look for a church, what is the MOST important thing we should look for?

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