Read: Ephesians 4:17-24

That, however, is not the way of life you learned when you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.
Ephesians 4:20-24

Dressed for the Best

 

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

Bria was horrified! She couldn’t believe it! She finally convinced her mom to go back-to-school shopping for new clothes. Most of her clothes didn’t fit because she had grown over the summer. A lot of her shirts were worn out, and some even had holes in them. Bria got a pile of new clothes, and she was excited to look her best at school.

But how could this be! Here she was in the car on the way to her first day of school in her best and favorite new outfit, and she dropped her chocolate donut! Noooo! She was covered in chocolate stains. With tears in her eyes Bria pleaded to go back home. “Mom, they can’t see me like this! I’m a mess!”

Not to worry! Super dad came to the rescue! Bria and her mom waited in the school parking lot as dad rushed from home with another brand-new outfit for Bria to wear. And suddenly, with a change of clothes came a change of attitude. Bria was happy again and excited for a great first day of school.

How dirty are you? How often do you walk around with stains for everyone to see? I’m not talking about spilling juice on your shirt or getting mud on your shoes. I’m talking about sin. How dirty are you from all the bad things you have done? How often do other people see you do what is wrong?

Today the apostle Paul reminds us that this not how we Christians are to live. This week’s devotions have reminded us that God gives us many blessings—like food and clothing—but the best blessings come to us through Jesus himself. Jesus has washed us clean of every stain from our sins. He has given us a new life and clothed us with his own perfection and holiness. That’s why Paul says we should “put off” our old sinful ways and “put on” the new self.

Just like Bria was happy and excited to wear the new outfit she changed into, so we can be happy and excited to live our new life in Jesus. Life with Jesus is filled with joy and peace and love. Life with Jesus is filled with the hope of life in heaven. Life with Jesus is different and better. So follow Paul’s advice. Get rid of your old sinful ways and put on your best outfit for everyone to see. Wear your faith in Jesus and let the light of Christ shine!

Closing Prayer:

Jesus, you have washed me clean with your own blood. You have dressed me in your own life and death. Now let me shine with the light of your love so that all can see. 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 makes us dirty in God’s sight? Why?
• Who makes us clean in God’s sight? How?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Explain how Jesus’ forgiveness is like putting on new and clean clothing.
• When Christians live with their “new clothing” from Christ, how will they look different from other unbelievers in the world?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• The Bible tells us that we are clothed with Christ at our baptism (Galatians 3:27). What are ways that you can better remember your baptism when you were clothed with Christ?
• A friend comes to you and says, “I’ve really messed up and sinned badly. I feel so dirty.” What would you say to that person?

Hymn: CW 402:1,4 – My Faith Looks Up to Thee

My faith looks up to thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine.
Now hear me while I pray; Take all my guilt away;
Oh, let me from this day Be wholly thine!

When ends life’s transient dream, When death’s cold, sullen stream
Shall o’er me roll,
Blest Savior, then, in love, Fear and distrust remove;
Oh, bear me safe above, A ransomed soul!

 

 

Read: John 6:24-35

Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
John 6:35

I Want Something Better

 

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

“More! . . . More!” Little Bryce didn’t know many words, but he definitely knew this one. “More! . . . More!” he kept saying every time his mother gave him another bite of that ooey-gooey, super cheesy mac ‘n cheese. Bryce’s older brother and sister couldn’t stop laughing at him.

Their mother reminded them that Bryce wasn’t the only one who always wants more. Last week Bryce’s brother cried at his birthday party because even though he got tons of presents, he didn’t get the one thing he really wanted. And Bryce’s teenage sister had a closet full of clothes, yet somehow she always complained about having nothing to wear.

But those three aren’t alone. Don’t we all do this? Kids get toys or gifts or money, and very quickly they want something bigger or better. They want more. Adults buy a new house or car or get a new phone or tablet. But soon there will be a cooler car or a fancier phone those people will want more. Despite our many blessings in this life, we seem so often to want more!

Something similar happened in the story today. Jesus had miraculously fed over 5,000 people with five loaves of bread and two small fish. What a blessing! When Jesus left them, the people quickly went to find him. Not because they wanted to thank him. Not because they wanted to learn about their powerful Savior who provided for them. No, they wanted more.

Jesus pointed this out to them and taught them to look for something better. They wanted more bread or food for their stomachs. They wanted something that was for this life and that wouldn’t last. But Jesus told them to look for a “bread” that lasts. What was Jesus talking about? He told them, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.”

Jesus provided food for those people, and he provides for us today, because he loves us. He is gracious and blesses us with so many things! But each of these blessings reminds us that Jesus gives us something even better—himself. You can eat the best food ever, but you’ll still be hungry tomorrow. You can have the best phone ever, but soon it will be out of style or break or no longer work. But if you have Jesus, he will satisfy every desire. He gives forgiveness. He gives peace. He gives eternal life in heaven. Thank God for the blessings he gives you, yes even the wonderful food you eat. But always crave the food that is even better—Jesus, the Bread of Life.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for the food and many blessings you give us. Most of all, thank you for feeding us with yourself, the Bread of Life. 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 your favorite food that God gives you to eat?
• What is the best blessing that God gives to us?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why is it that we often want “more” things in life, even though we already have so much?
• How do we feed ourselves with Jesus, the Bread of Life?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Describe how a person might act if they are “starving” for Jesus.
• Explain why having Jesus, the great blessing, helps us to be more content with our other blessings.

Hymn: CW 402:1-2 – My Faith Looks Up to Thee

My faith looks up to thee, Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine.
Now hear me while I pray; Take all my guilt away;
Oh, let me from this day Be wholly thine!

May thy rich grace impart Strength to my fainting heart;
My zeal inspire!
As thou hast died for me, Oh, may my love to thee
Pure, warm, and changeless be, A living fire!

 

 

Read: 2 Kings 4:42-44

A man came from Baal Shalishah, bringing the man of God twenty loaves of barley bread baked from the first ripe grain, along with some heads of new grain. “Give it to the people to eat,” Elisha said.

“How can I set this before a hundred men?” his servant asked.

But Elisha answered, “Give it to the people to eat. For this is what the Lord says: ‘They will eat and have some left over.’” Then he set it before them, and they ate and had some left over, according to the word of the Lord.
2 Kings 4:42-44

Little Things for Big Things

 

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

It was a terrible tragedy when Anthony’s wife died. Everyone in town heard about the car accident. Everyone knew it would be tough for Anthony to raise two children all by himself. Everyone was shocked and sad about what happened. But little six-year-old Carly knew just what to do.

Carly grabbed some construction paper and her favorite markers, and she got to work drawing. Carly drew a hill with an open doorway (it was supposed to be an empty tomb), a bright sun shining in the sky, and three stick people standing next to the hill. (The stick people were supposed to be Anthony and his two children.) Above each person Carly drew a heart with a cross in it. The picture said, “Jesus lives and Jesus loves you.”

It was just a little picture drawn with a crayon, but it was so powerful. When Anthony and his children saw it, they were filled with tears and with joy. Carly’s picture helped to give them peace because it reminded them that their loved one was now in heaven. Anthony took a picture of Carly’s artwork with his phone and posted it online.

Within a few days, the picture went viral. Carly’s creation had been viewed and shared over a million times! People all over the world heard about Carly’s loving picture. But even more amazing than that, over a million people heard about Jesus as the Savior who rose from the dead and conquered sin and death. God used a little thing for a really big thing!

In today’s short story from the Bible, a man brought 20 loaves of bread to the prophet Elisha. It was a little act of love, but God used that little thing for a really big thing! He fed a hundred people with it! This short story reminds us of how Jesus did a similar miracle (but much bigger!) when he fed over 5,000 people.

All of these stories remind us of God’s incredible power. The Lord can use simple, little things to do big things. Jesus used a manger as his resting place when he was born. He used a cross as the place to die for your sins. He used a tomb as the place to rise in victory over death. Now Jesus wants to use “little” old you and me to do big things in his kingdom.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for showing your big power through little things in this world. Continue to use that power in me to bring big blessings to other people. 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 man in the story bring to Elisha to feed over 100 people?
• What are your favorite foods that God provides for you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How does God provide food for you to eat each day?
• Describe little ways that God could use you to help provide food for other people now and when you are older.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Can you think of at least one story in the Bible when God used little things to accomplish big miracles?
• Compare and contrast the Bible story today with the story of Jesus feeding the 5,000.

Hymn: CW 469:1,3-4 – Take My Life and Let It Be

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

Take my voice and let me sing Always, only for my King.
Take my lips and let them be Filled with messages from thee.

Take my silver and my gold; Not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect and use Ev’ry pow’r as thou shalt choose.

 

Read: Hebrews 13:7-8, 17-21

Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith. Have confidence in your leaders and submit to their authority, because they keep watch over you as those who must give an account. Do this so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no benefit to you. Pray for us.
Hebrews 13:7, 17-18a

Respect and Pray for Our Spiritual Leaders

 

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

Pastors, teachers, and church leaders are God’s front-line defense of his Church on earth. They witness firsthand the devastating effects of Satan’s bombardment of God’s people. They hunker alongside you in the trenches of life. Their genuine desire is to keep watch over you for your spiritual safety. Someday, they will report to the Triune God for the groups of souls, large or small, entrusted to their care.

Because of the weight of their duties, your leaders need you. Here are two ways you can help:

1. Remember your leaders. Before we can remember, we need to know them by name. What’s the name of your pastor(s)? Find out who your elders, church council, and other leaders are who serve your church. But don’t just say their names. Remember to thank God for them. Send them encouragement in a text, e-mail, or card. Support them in their lives because they have the same joys and struggles as we do. Thank them! Acknowledge their time and the work that they do on behalf of all of us!
2. Pray for [your leaders]. God isn’t asking us to pray. He is telling us, “Pray!” We pray at dinner time. We pray at bedtime. We pray when we are afraid. We pray when we are joyful. Prayer is our conversation with our Father in heaven. We have the great opportunity to give him all of our troubles, share with him all of our joys, and thank him for every blessing in our lives. When was the last time you prayed for your leaders? Pray for their well-being. Pray that their faith might be strong. Pray that they might lead like Jesus who loved and gave himself for the church. Pray that we might support them and be a blessing in their lives of service. Pray with urgency. Our leaders face the devil daily. That brings urgency to us. We pray for our leaders that they might combat all of the devil’s attacks.

Jesus fought with the holy weapon of love. He prayed, forgave, and loved us to death on the cross. He chose to obey his Father’s will. Hold the line alongside your leaders! Use God’s holy weapon of Christian love to achieve it: “Keep on loving each other as brothers” (Hebrews 13:1). The battle is not against one another but against enemies that do not have flesh or blood. Following the lead of a godly leader reveals our faith in—and obedience to—God.

May God help us to remember and pray for our leaders so that their work is a blessing.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord of our strength, thank you for the faithful leaders of our church. Grant them strength and encourage them each day to keep leading your church to your glory! 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 things does God want us to do for our leaders?
• Create a little prayer in your head for your pastor and say it out loud.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Name as many leaders in your church as you can.
• Name one way you can support them in their work

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Think of your pastors. Give a time they might need you to pray for them.
• Consider the different leaders that serve your church. Discuss at least two challenges they face while serving you.

Hymn: CW 412:1-2 – Lord, Teach Us How to Pray Aright

Lord, teach us how to pray aright, With rev’rence and with fear.
Though dust and ashes in your sight, We may, we must draw near.

We suffer if we cease from prayer; Oh, grant us pow’r to pray.
And when to meet you we prepare, Lord, meet us on the way.

 

Read: Mark 6:30-34

When Jesus landed and saw a large crowd, he had compassion on them, because they were like sheep without a shepherd. So he began teaching them many things.
Mark 6:34

Jesus Was a Compassionate Teacher of the Word

 

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

What does it mean to be compassionate? According to Google, it’s more than simply telling someone that you care. Compassion is “feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others.” To be compassionate is to feel deeply for another person as they experience the ups and downs of life. It’s a frame of mind, making it easy to treat others with love and understanding.

In our Bible reading, when Jesus saw a large crowd of people, “he had compassion on them.” They followed him even when Jesus was trying to find a quiet moment of rest. He didn’t think, “Man, I can’t get away from these people!” Or, “Why can’t I be alone for a few minutes?” He could’ve been frustrated. But no, Jesus had compassion on them. He saw them as “sheep without a shepherd.” Compassion is not an outward show but an emotion from the inner and deepest part of the body. God’s gut feeling for sheep is deep inside him and can’t be rooted out. Jesus knew sheep would be lost, confused, and in danger if he were not there to guide and help them. “So he began teaching them many things.” Jesus didn’t run and hide. He didn’t ignore the people while he ate his lunch. He saw people running on empty, who were hurting and hopeless and needed much more. He not only loved them in his heart, but he also showed his love by continuing to care for them. His love flowed out into his actions.

Jesus is a compassionate teacher to us as well! His love flowed out through his actions when he willingly gave his life on the cross and rose from the dead for all of us. Through his amazing, selfless example, he displayed how we might live a compassionate life. He inspires us to love deep down in our hearts and for our love to pour out in our actions. So, the next time your little sister asks you yet again to help her fix her Lego creation, show compassion. When your big brother just needs some time alone, show compassion. When Mom and Dad need your help around the house again, show compassion! Work to have your love shower on others through your actions just as Jesus showers us with his love as our compassionate teacher every moment of every day!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, we are thankful for your compassion every day. Help us to show compassion to others by letting our love show in our actions. 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 couldn’t get away from the people following him. Instead of getting mad, how did he feel about them? (Hint: it begins with the letter “c.”)
• What does it mean to be compassionate?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• If you were one of Jesus’ disciples trying to leave the crowd of people, how might you have felt when they followed you?
• Name two ways you might show compassion to others?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What makes it difficult for you to show compassion to others?
• List examples from today how you might have showed compassion rather than become frustrated.

Hymn: CW 365:1 – Love Divine, All Love Excelling

Love divine, all love excelling,
Joy of heav’n, to earth come down,
Fix in us your humble dwelling,
All your faithful mercies crown.
Jesus, you are all compassion,
Boundless mercy from above.
Visit us with benediction;
Comfort us with heav’nly love.

 

Read: Amos 7:10-17

Amos answered Amaziah, “I was neither a prophet nor the son of a prophet, but I was a shepherd, and I also took care of sycamore-fig trees. But the Lord took me from tending the flock and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel.’”
Amos 7:14-15

God Can Use Anyone to Share His Word

 

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

Who would be the best football player? The one who throws the furthest, tackles the hardest, and runs the fastest. Who would be the best singer? The one with the most beautiful voice, a great smile, and lots of charisma. Who would be the best doctor? The one with the best education, most experience, and a caring heart. These are obvious choices for their type of work.

But what about the player who has a weak arm and is a little slow? Or the singer whose voice cracks and is shy? The doctor from a lesser-known school with little experience? These people would likely not be our first choice for these occupations. There wouldn’t be a sense of excitement or joy over the less than desirable choices. They likely would struggle to find a job.

The Lord’s first choice looks different. Many times, God uses the least obvious choice to do his work. In our lesson today, God chose a shepherd and a farmer. Amos was called by God away from his sheep and trees. The Lord had an additional job for him. Amos was to share God’s word with his people. Amos didn’t have the training. He wasn’t popular. The Lord told Amos to tell the people God’s messages. Amos wasn’t the clear choice. He wasn’t a great singer or speaker. He wasn’t used to being in front of people, and yet God chose him to do his work.

Today, God calls all people to spread God’s great news. It doesn’t matter if you are a football player, singer, or doctor. God calls all of us to spread his great news. Through some of the least obvious people, the Lord works to share his great message of salvation. Even if we don’t have the training, popularity, or other skills the world might say a preacher needs to have, the Lord equips us with his words and calls us to action. The success is the same now as it was for Amos. We have the opportunity to preach the news from our Lord, and he grants success. No matter the job on earth, may everyone work to spread the word that Jesus has saved us all!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, we praise you for your amazing choices of those to do your work. Be with us, your clear choices, so that we might help more people to know that you are God who has come to save them. 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 does God want to tell his good news?
• Name two things that make you so good at sharing God’s Word.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Jesus calls you to share him in your life. Figure out one way you might do that this week.
• Name two things in life that make it difficult to share Jesus.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why do you think God chooses the less obvious people to share his news?
• Name one person (not a pastor or teacher) who shared the good news with you and describe how that impacted you.

Hymn: CW 446:3,4 – I Am Trusting You Lord Jesus

I am trusting you for cleansing In the crimson flood,
Trusting you who made me holy, By your blood.

I am trusting you to guide me; You alone shall lead,
Ev’ry day and hour supplying, All my need.

 

Read: 2 Timothy 3:10-4:5

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. But you, keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
2 Timothy 4:2-3,5

Be Prepared to Preach God’s Powerful Word

 

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

There are lots of things that get into our ears. Loud noises. Music. Books. Words. Some of it is good. Some is dangerous. Some of it is because we have “itching ears.” That’s a fancy way of saying, “Scratch my desire to hear what I want to hear.” There are forces with competing agendas for your ears. What an ugly mess life becomes when we only listen to what we want and lose sight of the better life God wants for us.

That’s why God has something to say about what goes into your ears. There are words of truth he wants planted in your ears and words that are lies he wants to stay out of your ears.

Picture words like the food you eat. Some food is not good for you. Eating chicken-fried steak smothered in gravy, with onion rings, butter-drenched rolls, and a chocolate fudge sundae tastes pretty awesome at the moment! But a daily diet of that will make you unhealthy. God’s Word is like eating a meal of grilled chicken, rice, and green beans washed down with a glass of milk. It’s healthy for you—and it tastes good!

How do you tell the difference between the two? Today’s word of God tells us: “Preach the Word.” The most important words of truth, the whole truth, belong to God. He wants to fill your ears with them—words that save! For some of you, that may go all the way back to your baptism as a baby. Parents and pastors, Sunday School teachers, and grandparents loved you so much they shared the best of Jesus for your ears to hear!

Now God promises you the power of his Word and his love so you can speak God’s Word. When you might be tempted to be timid, quiet, or sugar coat words God has made crystal clear, he says, “Keep your head.” Stay focused. When you’re tempted to avoid conflict, he says, “Endure hardship patiently,” which sometimes goes along with speaking God’s truth.

Whether you’ve heard it a thousand times before, don’t ever stop listening to the words God wants planted in your ears! “He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says.”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Father, your Word is such an amazing gift for us. Let our ears always be ready to hear so that we can be ready for any and all opportunities to share your amazing message of sin, forgiveness, and grace. In your name we pray. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Name three sounds you heard in your ears today.
• In today’s devotion, what beautiful sound does God want to go into your ears?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Today’s devotion talked about “itchy” ears. What does that mean?
• Today’s devotion pictured different words you hear to be like healthy or unhealthy food you eat. How do you tell the difference between the two?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• You have a parent or pastor (or teacher) who share God’s Word with you. But why is it important for you to be able the difference between good words and dangerous words?
• Name a moment when you are in a group and might be tempted to sugarcoat the truth of God’s Word. Devise a response that will glorify your God.

Hymn: CW 293 – God’s Word Is Our Great Heritage

God’s Word is our great heritage
And shall be ours forever;
To spread its light from age to age
Shall be our chief endeavor.
Through life is guides our way;
In death it is our stay.
Lord, grant, while worlds endure,
We keep its teachings pure
Throughout all generations.

 

Read: Mark 6:1-6

Jesus said to them, “Only in his hometown, among his relatives and in his own house is a prophet without honor.” He could not do any miracles there, except lay his hand on a few sick people and heal them. And he was amazed at their lack of faith.
Mark 6:4-6

Jesus Proclaimed the Truth and Some Sadly Rejected

 

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

“I don’t believe you! That can’t be true!” your friend says to you. His reaction shocks you! This is your best friend who has known you as long as you can remember, and he doesn’t believe you. You try to explain but it’s no use. You leave hurt, confused, and disappointed. If he doesn’t believe you, who will? That hurts, doesn’t it? And when it comes from your best friend, it rocks your confidence.

Jesus experienced something similar. He, along with his disciples, were visiting Nazareth, the town in which he grew up. Jesus wasn’t there to only visit and hang out with family. As the Savior, he was there to preach and teach. That’s why people everywhere knew about Jesus. When someone local becomes famous, often the locals are excited and proud to welcome them home. Not so with Jesus. As he was teaching in the synagogue (the church), the people were indeed amazed at what he was saying. Then it turned into questions like, “How can this be the same son of Mary and Joseph that grew up down the street? Who does he think he is?”

They said this about Jesus? They surely did. Those who knew him longest didn’t believe him. They knew God’s promise to send a Savior. But they just couldn’t believe that Jesus was the Savior. To them, he was just one of them and no more.

Now who is amazed? Jesus. He is amazed at their lack of faith. That’s why he did very few miracles while there. After he spoke the words for today’s devotion, the people became so mad that they ran him out of town and tried to throw him off a cliff. “He simply walked through the crowd and went on his way” (Luke 4:30).

What does this mean for you and for me? God never promised that believing in Jesus would be easy. In fact, he said just the opposite. There are going to be times when even those closest to us may reject what we believe and say. But he also promises to bless our believing and to be with us. Like Jesus, we go on our way and keep believing and telling and sharing and praying. May the Lord bless all who hear the awesome message of God’s grace through Jesus. May they join us in hearing and believing!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Father, it can be hard to share you with others. Help us to be confident and excited to tell others about you. We want everyone we know to be with you. Bless our efforts! In your name we pray. 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 were the people that couldn’t believe Jesus was more than the local son of Mary and Joseph?
• Why do you believe in Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Share a time when a friend or someone close to you didn’t believe you. Was it something you did or said? What did you do to convince them you were telling the truth?
• The people Jesus was talking to knew about God’s promise to send a Savior. Why do you think they still didn’t believe him?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Even when you know it might be hard and that someone you know might not believe you, what promise of God gives you confidence and encouragement to speak up?
• We can share our faith by talking to someone face to face. But what are other ways (without saying a word) that you can influence someone about God’s amazing grace?

Hymn: CW 293 – God’s Word Is Our Great Heritage

God’s Word is our great heritage
And shall be ours forever;
To spread its light from age to age
Shall be our chief endeavor.
Through life is guides our way;
In death it is our stay.
Lord, grant, while worlds endure,
We keep its teachings pure
Throughout all generations.

 

Read: 2 Samuel 12:11-25

Then David said to Nathan, “I have sinned against the LORD.” Nathan replied, “The LORD has taken away your sin. You are not going to die. But because by doing this you have shown utter contempt for the LORD, the son born to you will die.”
2 Samuel 12:13-14

God Comforts Us with His Pardon

 

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

Do you know that feeling you get in your stomach when you’ve done something wrong? It feels like a bad stomachache but food or a nap don’t help. You feel badly and often wish that you could go back and do things differently. How can you fix this and make it better? You are concerned if Mom or Dad will find out or how they will respond. You don’t want them disappointed in you. You also don’t want the consequence that will likely follow. You wish it would all just go away.

Today’s Bible reading begins with a very sad story. Nathan was sent to David by God. Nathan was there to do a hard thing—tell King David that he had sinned terribly. David knew he had done wrong by taking someone else’s wife. He tried to cover up his sin, but the guilt was still there. Nathan came to David to stop the cover up and to tell David the hard truth—David had sinned against God and the result of David’s sin had consequences, including the death of his son.

David did wrong. Nathan helped him recognize his terrible mistake. Like you, David may have felt better when he finally admitted his sin. David didn’t make excuses or try to pass the blame. He simply said, “I have sinned against the LORD.” Nathan immediately reminded him that God had taken care of David’s sin, had forgiven David. Can you imagine how David felt? What a relief! God had shown him mercy in that forgiveness.

I would imagine that sometimes when you go to Mom or Dad and tell them when you’ve done something wrong, they may respond the same way. Their first words might be, “I forgive you.” This can take us by surprise. They also might take the time to talk through the situation with you, and it’s also likely that there will be a consequence to help you learn to avoid that mistake in the future. Regardless, their love for you is still there.

It’s even more so with God. His forgiveness is yours. The verse above says that God will “have mercy” and will “freely pardon.” God isn’t indicating that there will be no consequences. God isn’t looking for you to do something to make up for your sin. Jesus already did that on the cross. You are forgiven. You are precious in God’s eyes. You can pray just as David did in Psalm 51, “Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, it sometimes makes no sense to me that you forgive me freely each and every day. Even though I don’t always understand it, thank you. Help me to show your love and forgiveness in all I do, reflecting you to others. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Think of a time when you did something wrong and you were afraid to tell someone. Why were you afraid?
• Think of a consequence given to you the last time you did something wrong. Discuss with your family how consequences are meant to help you.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• In the Bible reading today, it says that David admitted he had “sinned against the LORD.” Think of a time when you’ve sinned. How was that a sin against the LORD?
• Give one reason why it’s so important not to hide our sins.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• The consequences of David’s sin were severe. People turned against him and his son died. These happened even after he was told that God forgave him. How might the consequences of David’s sin have helped him in the future?
• When someone forgives you, and even more, when you know God forgives you, how does can this make a difference when someone sins against you?

Hymn: CW 446:1,2,4 – I Am Trusting You, Lord Jesus

I am trusting you, Lord Jesus,
Trusting only you,
Trusting you for full salvation,
Free and true.

I am trusting you for pardon;
At your feet I bow,
For your grace and tender mercy
Trusting now.

I am trusting you to guide me;
You alone shall lead,
Every day and hour supplying
All my need.

 

Read: Acts 27:13-26

So keep up your courage, men, for I have faith in God that it will happen just as he told me.
Acts 27:25

God Protected Paul Through a Storm

 

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

We don’t hear too much about shipwrecks—unless you live along the water’s edge of a lake or ocean. So today’s extended Bible reading might seem more like a story about some other people that happened a long time ago.

Actually, though, there’s something in it for us all. The guys on the ship were terrified because they were in danger of sinking. They really thought they were going to die. They did everything they could think of to fix the situation. They tied ropes under the boat and threw things overboard to make the boat lighter. But it didn’t work. They gave up all hope. That’s when Paul told them not to be afraid—that God had a plan and things would work out according to that plan.

We have things that scare us too. Did your parents give you a spray bottle filled with monster repellent to use at bedtime? Some people are scared of snakes or dogs. Maybe you’re afraid of more grown-up things like your dad having cancer or your baby brother being in the hospital. Sometimes we might be tempted to try to handle them on our own, and then we give up hope if things don’t work out.

God wants you to take heart and know that he has a plan for your life too. He says, “Because you love me, I will rescue you. I will protect you because you know my name. When you call to me, I will answer you. I will be with you when you are in trouble” (Psalm 91:14,15).

When you scream “Dad! Come quick!” because you need him to refill the bottle of monster spray, he comes because you’ve called for him and he loves you. When you call out “God! I need you!” he’s there because you called for him and he loves you. God, who made the entire universe out of nothing, cares about you. His greatest plan was to rescue you from the sinking in sea of your sins through the life jacket of a living Jesus. One of his favorite things is to watch over you, answer you, and protect you—and watch you live out his plans or you.

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, without me even saying it, you know what scares me. Thank you for caring about me, for telling me that I can talk to you about everything! Thank you for answering me all the time, for always being with me, and for having good plans for 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

• Recall two scary things from today’s devotion.
• Discuss how the thought of Jesus makes them less scary.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Name someone who is having a tough time now.
• How can we tell them about God’s plans for them?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Discuss: Living life without Christ is like an ancient sailor steering with the sun and stars.
• When life is pitch dark, what thoughts of God and his presence comfort you the most?

Hymn: CW 451:1 – Precious Lord, Take My Hand

Precious Lord, take my hand, Lead me on, let me stand;
I am tired, I am weak, I am worn.
Through the storm, through the night, Lead me on to the light.
Take my hand, precious Lord; Lead me home.

 

Read: Mark 4:35-41

The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?”
He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm.
Mark 4:38b-39

Jesus Protected with His Mighty Power

 

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

For people who live where tornadoes or hurricanes happen, they know the drill. You get a warning, and you had better run to the basement or get to an inside wall or leave before the storm hits. That’s because storms are serious.

A storm (the Bible calls it a furious squall) hit while Jesus and his disciples were in a boat on the water. There was no safe building for them to hide in. In a crazy panic, they ran to Jesus, which is always a good idea. But then they yelled at him, which is not a good idea. They yelled, “WE ARE GOING TO DIE AND YOU DON’T EVEN CARE!”

Jesus, who knows how to handle panic better than any parent, got up and told the storm, “Stop it!” And it did.

Then Jesus had a little talk with the disciples. He asked them to really think about what they said (you know, kind of like how your parents might help you to look back at the some of the things you’ve said and think through if they were the best choice of words).

We deal with different kinds of storms in life. Dads and moms deploy for the military. Cousins die from drug overdoses. Parents separate. Classmates get cancer. People can be bullies. Wildfires, tornadoes, mudslides, and hurricanes threaten homes.

It’s easy to be like the disciples. When we get scared, we might think that God isn’t paying attention. We might yell at him, “DON’T YOU CARE?!”

He does care. After all, he’s the God who knit you together exactly the way he wants you to be—while you were still a baby inside your mom. He’s the one who sent Jesus to rescue you from Satan. He’s the God who gives you the Holy Spirit to guide you. He’s the God who calms storms.

This doesn’t mean life is perfect—here on earth. We still live in a sinful world and still have bad things happen. But we can trust that our God does care. And if he doesn’t calm the storm, he can calm our hearts and help us trust in him because he protects us with his mighty power.

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, it’s easy to focus more on the “storms”—the bad things that happen in this world. Help me run to you whenever storms hit, not yelling at you, but knowing that you will use it for my good. Amaze me with your power to make my faith bigger and stronger so that I trust you more and worry less. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What’s the biggest storm you remember? Recount what made you afraid.
• Stretch out your arms to indicate the power of that storm. Now stretch out your arms to indicate the power of God. Which one is bigger?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Talk about two bad things (“storms”) that have happened to you recently. How did God help you during them?
• On a scale of 1 to 5 (with 1 being weakest and 5 being strongest), how big is your faith? How big is your God? How big do you dare to pray?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What bad thing or “storms” have happened to you? How did God help you during them?
• As a family, name at least one way we can help each other run to God first to calm the storm in our hearts.

Hymn: CW 415:1,2 – Be Still, My Soul

Be still, my soul; the Lord is on your side;
Bear patiently the cross of grief or pain;
Leave to your God to order and provide;
In ev’ry change he faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul; your best, your heav’nly friend
Through thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul; your God will undertake
To guide the future as he has the past.
Your hope, your confidence, let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul; the waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while he lived below.

 

Read: Jonah 3:1-10

Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish.
Jonah 3:8b-9

God’s Word Powerfully Worked in Nineveh

 

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

When you get in trouble at school, do you

A. Get mad at your teacher.
B. Blame another person in the class.
C. Say, “Yeah. I totally did that. I was so wrong. I’m so sorry. How can I make it up to you?”

Let’s be honest, nobody really wants to admit that they were wrong—even if they were—so C rarely happens.

Except, it did once.

God told a man named Jonah to talk to people who lived in a city called Nineveh (pronounced ninn-uh-vuh). He said, “Go to the great city of Nineveh and preach against it, because its wickedness has come up before me.”

Oh, great. Basically Jonah had to tell everyone in the city that they misbehaved very badly. They went against God’s laws and they were about to get in trouble. Well, not just trouble, but BIG trouble. For three days (it was a big city!), Jonah told them the bad news.

Instead of getting mad at Jonah and blaming their neighbors, the people said, “Yep. We totally did that. We were so wrong. We’re so sorry. We want to make it up to God.”

Another man—a king named David—lived about 250 years before Jonah. He knew that admitting when he did something wrong actually made him feel better, “When I kept silent, my bones wasted away through my groaning all day long. . . . Then I acknowledged my sin to you and did not cover up my iniquity. I said, ‘I will confess my transgressions to the Lord.’ And you forgave the guilt of my sin,” (Psalm 32:3,5 NIV).

When David tried to hide his sins, the weight of his guilt made him sick to his stomach and he groaned all day. But when he admitted to God what he did, he heard the sweetest words from God, “I forgive you.” That’s the same thing that happened to the people who lived in Nineveh.

Here’s the thing. God already knew David’s sins and Nineveh’s sins, the same way he knows yours. Confessing your sins is not something God needs you to do. It’s something God wants for you. Pretending you aren’t guilty isn’t being honest. When you hide your sins, you hold on to them. When you admit them, you say, “I was wrong, God. I’m so sorry. But Jesus already paid for them, so I don’t have to carry them around anymore. Thank you.”

God has compassion on you, just like he did with the people of Nineveh.

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, help me to do what you tell me. If I don’t follow your plans and path, please help me to admit when I’m wrong. Then, let me hear your sweetest words, “I forgive you.” Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Remember the last time you got caught for doing something wrong?
• Were you sorry? Why is it important for someone to then say, “I forgive you”?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Talk about the last time someone did something wrong. Did you tell on them or talk to them about it?
• What sins of ours should we confess to God now?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Have you ever had to tell someone they were doing something wrong? How much courage did that take? How do you think Jonah felt having to talk to the people of Nineveh?
• Recall a time you got caught for doing something wrong. What reminder from today’s devotion might help you admit and repent the next time you do something wrong?

Hymn: CW 397:1,5 – Just As I Am, without One Plea

Just as I am, without one plea But that thy blood was shed for me
And that thou bidd’st me come to thee, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

Just as I am, thou wilt receive, Wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
Because thy promise I believe, O Lamb of God, I come, I come.

 

Read: Revelation 20:1-10

Blessed and holy are those who share in the first resurrection. The second death has no power over them, but they will be priests of God and of Christ and will reign with him for a thousand years. And the devil, who deceived them, was thrown into the lake of burning sulfur, where the beast and the false prophet had been thrown.
Revelation 20:6

Jesus Will Lock Up Satan Once and for All

 

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

What is your favorite movie?

Chances are a big reason you like that movie is because it has an amazing ending. The bad guys lose. The good guys win. The problem is solved.

Life on earth has a very dramatic ending—a good ending for us, not so good for Satan.

In vivid word pictures, today’s Word of God tells us that believers in Jesus will have struggles in this life, but on judgment day we will join him in heaven to rule with him forever! It also tells us that Satan will be bound up for 1,000 years and then let loose. The 1,000 years represents the current time you and I are living in, leading up to judgment day. In his wisdom, God allows Satan some power and influence in life. He’ll have the greatest influence right before judgment day.

And then… the ending.

Jesus will throw Satan into hell (the lake of burning sulfur) and lock him up with all of his followers forever. His power and influence will be completely destroyed.

Since we know the ending of life on earth is an amazing one, we can live with hope and purpose even on our bad days. Nothing can take away how happy we are to be alive and believe in Jesus until we get to live with him in heaven! How awesome that any time we are in trouble, we can pray right then and there to Jesus just like God’s priests

Lots of people are scared to think of the end of life. They try not to think about it. They’re not sure what will happen to them. We get to tell them the ending is awesome, thanks to Jesus! He gives us his power to do some pretty incredible things on earth. We get to pass on his forgiveness to others. We get to lighten people’s pain and suffering with our hope in Jesus.

Knowing our ending is good because of Jesus makes each day we live now special. Give thanks for today. Get ready to live tomorrow with a purpose because you are another day closer to heaven.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, what an awesome ending you have written for my life on earth! Someday, you will do away with everything evil. Someday, we will live and rule with you forever. Thank you for making this great ending possible. 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 will lock Satan up forever?
• Where do you get to go forever because of Jesus?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Do you have any fears about judgment day? Why does the Bible say believers in Jesus don’t have to be afraid of judgment day?
• Since we know the ending to life is a good one for us, how can we feel each and every day?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Name one fear, one doubt, or one pain in life that is taking away your happiness.
• Based on today’s Word of God, what is the solution to your fear, doubt, or pain?

Hymn: CW 207:5 – The Day is Surely Drawing Near

My Savior paid the debt I owe
And for my sin was smitten;
Within the Book of Life I know
My name has now been written.
I will not doubt, for I am free,
And Satan cannot threaten me;
There is no condemnation!

 

Read: Mark 3:20-35

So Jesus called them over to him and began to speak to them in parables: “How can Satan drive out Satan? If a kingdom is divided against itself, that kingdom cannot stand. If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand. And if Satan opposes himself and is divided, he cannot stand; his end has come.
Mark 3:23-26

Jesus Works Against Satan

 

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

When is the last time you went to the zoo and saw a lion? Why did you feel safe seeing a lion even though lions are strong, ferocious animals with sharp teeth? Chances are you were standing behind a fence of some kind—a strong barrier between you and the lion. But if you jumped the fence and stood next to the lion, you would have every reason to not feel safe!

This week we’ll be talking about Satan, our enemy The Bible calls him a lion that’s prowling around, looking for someone to eat. Yikes! We want to be aware of Satan’s power and his desire to take down Christians because he is against God.

We’ll also be talking about the many ways Jesus is like a barrier between us and Satan. As long as we’re standing next to Jesus, he’ll keep us safe from Satan.

In our verses for today, Jesus points out that fact. Satan, who is only evil, and Jesus, who is only good, are enemies. Jesus went around driving demons out of people to help them. But some people accused Jesus of being on Satan’s side. They said he was using Satan’s power to drive out demons.

Jesus points out how silly that sounds. Why would Satan be against himself? The truth is Jesus and Satan are total opposites of each other.

Satan (and anyone against God) is not on your side. He is actually looking to harm you. BUT—you can live with confidence each day because Jesus is on your side and is against Satan. Best of all, he is stronger than Satan. He’s like an impenetrable barrier between you and Satan!

So, knowing this, you’re wise not to mess around with Satan or anything against God. How does Satan try to mess with us? Satan likes to use lies to deceive us. He also tries to use accusations and guilt to drive us to despair.

Surround yourself with God’s Word and God’s people who can point out Satan’s lies that you might be tempted to believe. Any time you feel Satan accusing you, just tell him “Jesus is on my side!”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, thank you for being my barrier between me and Satan. Help me to always stay close you and to be aware of Satan. I know I have nothing to fear with you by my side. 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

• Is Satan mean or nice?
• Who is always working against Satan?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why does the Bible call the devil a lion?
• Think of two different ways that Satan tries to mess with us.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Discuss at least two common lies that Satan tries to get you and others to believe. How can you combat these lies?
• Satan likes to try and destroy us with accusations and guilt. What’s the way God wants you to deal with your guilt?

Hymn: CW 200:1,2 – A Mighty Fortress is Our God

A mighty fortress is our God, A trusty shield and weapon;
He helps us free from ev’ry need That has us now o’ertaken.
The old evil foe Now means deadly woe; Deep guile and great might
Are his dread arms in fight; On earth is not his equal.

With might of ours can naught be done; Soon were our loss effected.
But for us fights the valiant one Whom God himself elected.
You ask, “Who is this?” Jesus Christ it is, The almighty Lord.
And there’s no other God; He holds the field forever.

 

Read: 1 Samuel 21:1-6

“Now then, what do you have on hand? Give me five loaves of bread, or whatever you can find.”
But the priest answered David, “I don’t have any ordinary bread on hand; however, there is some consecrated bread here… So the priest gave him the consecrated bread, since there was no bread there except the bread of the Presence that had been removed from before the Lord and replaced by hot bread on the day it was taken away.
1 Samuel 21:3-4a,6

A Unique Exception to God’s Laws by Grace

 

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

Have you ever turned homework in late? If so, what was the reason? What did your teacher do?

The teacher has every right to lower your grade if your homework is late, don’t they? They made a rule as to when the homework was due, but you didn’t follow the rule.

Perhaps you were sick or had a really bad day, and that’s why your homework was turned in late. If your teacher didn’t lower your grade even though it was turned in late, they gave you a unique exception to their rule. They showed you grace, perhaps because they saw you were in need! (Maybe you can even thank them in person for that act of grace.)

That’s what happened to David. He and his friends were running for their lives from King Saul. They were very hungry. The only food around was special bread that was dedicated to the Lord. God made a law that this bread was only to be eaten by the priests, so the priest could have turned David away.

But God had compassion on David, so he caused Ahimelek, the priest, to give the bread to David and his friends. God knew David needed that bread to survive. Even though it was “breaking the rules,” God gave him the bread and showed grace to him and his friends. Jesus even mentions this story of grace when he’s talking with the Pharisees (check out Mark 2:23-28 from Monday’s devotion).

God cares for us deeply. His rules are important, and he wants them to be followed. They are for our own good (Just like the teacher’s rule of turning your homework in on time). And God also knows when we most need grace on a daily basis—when we need compassion when we haven’t followed his rules.

In fact, the whole reason God sent Jesus was because he cares about the rules AND he cares about us even more! Since Jesus lived a perfect life and died on the cross in our place, he made up for all the times we didn’t follow the rules and he paid the price for us breaking the rules.

So thank God today for his grace—that’s his undeserved, one-way love. There are so many times each day you probably don’t realize that God shows you grace. That’s who he is.

Can you trust a God like that? Absolutely! So trust him in everything today.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank you for loving me so much. Thank you for finding a way to save me through Jesus. This was your best act of grace! Help me see the daily, little ways you show me grace. Help me trust you more and more since you’re such an amazing God. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What did David want the priest to give him?
• What did Jesus do to show us grace?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Why did Ahimelek make an exception to the rule for David and his friends?
• As a family, have each person think of one way God showed them a little bit of grace today or yesterday.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Explain this statement: Sending Jesus to live and die for us is proof that God cares deeply about his rules (his holiness) and also cares deeply about every single person.
• What’s one challenging thing you’ve been wanting to do, but you haven’t tried? What if you took a risk and gave it a shot? Is this a time to trust God’s grace?

Hymn: CW 381:1,2 – Grace Has a Thrilling Sound

Grace has a thrilling sound To each believer’s ear;
That peace with God through Christ is found Is news I gladly hear.

Grace led my wand’ring feet To tread the heav’nly road,
And grace supplies each hour I meet While pressing on to God.