Read: 1 Corinthians 3:5-11

What, after all, is Apollos? And what is Paul? Only servants, through whom you came to believe—as the Lord has assigned to each his task. I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.
1 Corinthians 3:5-7

Your Favorite Pastor

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

Do you have a favorite pastor? What’s his name? What about him do you like? If you attend a church with more than one pastor, they often take turns preaching the sermon. Perhaps you prefer one of the pastors over the other. Or, picture this: you move to a new home and start attending a new church. The new pastor does just fine, but you’re still so comfortable with how your old pastor preached.

Here’s the question: Is liking one pastor over another wrong? Before you answer, don’t lose sight of what really matters.

Two thousand years ago, a church in the city called Corinth was full of people arguing over their favorite pastor. A pastor named Paul started the church. So some people liked Paul the best. After Paul, a gifted preacher named Apollos led the church. And so some people liked Apollos the best. Paul heard they were getting so caught up in playing favorites that there was division and arguing in their midst.

And so Paul wrote to tell them they were looking at their pastors incorrectly. He compared the church to a garden; each person was a plant. Paul said that his job was to plant the seed. And now it was Apollos’ job to water it. But God is the one who makes us grow. In other words, church leaders are only servants of God, but Jesus and his message is what really matters.

Appreciate your pastor. But remember who they are—mere human beings whom God called to serve him alone. In the end, give God all the glory!

Closing Prayer:

Lord God, thank you for the spiritual leaders that you have given me in my life. Each one has helped me grow in my faith and walk with 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

• Think of two things you like about your pastor (or, your Sunday school teacher).
• Consider writing them a card or letter to thank them for helping you know Jesus.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What is one thing that you have learned from your pastor and will always remember?
• How did that message help you grow in your faith?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What makes your current pastor unique? In other words, what special gift has God given him?
• Discuss with your family the importance of unity in your church and one way you can encourage it personally.

 

 

Read: Matthew 11:25-30

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
Matthew 11:28

God’s True Rest

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

Have you ever seen a baby in a deep sleep, the kind where they have their mouth open and they are just snuggled perfectly? Isn’t putting your tired head on the pillow and falling asleep the best after a long day?

Rest is so important if your mind and body are to function properly. But have you ever not gotten enough sleep? Maybe your baby brother or sister cried all night. Maybe you crammed for a test, or the grind of school just got to you. You know how hard it is to function the next day. Without proper rest on a regular basis your brain and body will not function properly. You may not remember what you learned, you may become moody, and your body may even become at risk of getting sick.

Even Jesus needed rest. He would often go off to pray to his Father. He needed spiritual rest. One time, Jesus even slept on a boat in the middle of a storm! Jesus understands our need for rest, especially the kind that has nothing to do with our tired bodies. Sometimes you may feel burdened by all the sins that you have committed. “Ah! I’ve done that again! I can’t believe I sinned again! When am I ever going to do things right?”

We all get tired physically and spiritually. But we have the perfect place to rest—in Jesus! No, Jesus will not offer you a soft pillow or a fuzzy blanket. Jesus invites us to come to him, and he will provide rest. Just imagine him putting his arm around you, and you resting your head on his shoulder. Then Jesus says he is gentle and humble. This is the opposite of harsh, mean, and arrogant. He offers us a way out. He promises his yoke, or bags, are light and easy to carry. He not only gives us physical rest, but he says he will give us rest for our souls. And best of all, the comfort and rest of life in heaven is waiting for you as well. No matter how tired you may be, Jesus will always provide the rest that we need so much.

So sleep like a baby tonight—Jesus gives the best rest! It’s good to take the time daily to come to Jesus in his Word and in prayer, and there we will find rest for our souls.

Closing Prayer:

Jesus what a gift you offer us! You know we become stressed and tired, but you refresh us with your love and ultimate rest. Thank 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

• When was the last time you felt sooo tired?
• What helps you fall asleep? How does Jesus help you sleep better?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Describe what you are like when you did not get enough sleep.
• What does Jesus mean when he says we can find rest in him?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Identify some of the other things that people look to for rest in this world. Explain why they will never offer us rest as good as the rest that Jesus offers.
• Jesus says today, “Come to me.” Identify all the ways that we can go to Jesus (or that he comes to us). Then discuss how we can work on having this kind of rest more often.

 

 

Read: Exodus 33:12-23

Moses said to the Lord, “You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’ If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people.”

The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Exodus 33:12-14

Rest? Really?

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

Justin wouldn’t budge. His feet felt glued to the side of the swimming pool. He wrapped his arms tightly around himself. His mother stood in the shallow pool water holding out her arms. She encouraged, “It’s okay. You can do it. I’m right here.”

In a way, Moses was standing at a pool’s edge wishing someone would hold his hand. The people he was leading had just dishonored the true God that had saved them from the slavery of the Egyptians and miraculously parted the Red Sea so they could cross safely. They made a
golden god that looked like a cow and then threw a party for it with singing and dancing. God was ready to destroy them. Moses pleaded, “Please, don’t.” God gave in.

The next day, Moses was stressed and worried because he was supposed to lead the people into the Promised Land. “You want me to lead the people but you’re not going to go with me?” he asked God. God had some powerful and encouraging words that he gave to Moses and to us, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”

What does that mean? Well, imagine what it would mean if God would refuse to look at you anymore. To want nothing to do with you. To turn his head away from you. God promised Moses, “I will look on you. I will come along with you. I will watch you. I will protect you. I won’t leave you alone.” And to prove it, God says to Moses, “Watch this.” Then he allowed Moses to see the very best of all his goodness and glory and to hear God say his name. Now Moses was certain that the Lord would go with him.

That’s God’s answer when you say, “I can’t go on without you.” Jesus says, “Come to me, all you are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). When you are overwhelmed or confused, pray for God’s help. Tell him, “I can’t go on without you.” Know that the Lord will turn his face toward you and care. His presence on the cross proves it! With his arms held out to you, his voice reaches your ears, “My presence will go with you and I will give you rest.”

Closing Prayer:

Dear Lord, we are humbled and grateful that you give rest for our anxious souls! You are the God who parted the Red Sea, who showed your powerful presence to Moses, and proved your power over Satan, sin, and death so we could have peace and forgiveness. We bow before 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

• What did the people of Israel choose to worship instead of the true God?
• How was Moses feeling because of this?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Recall a moment you felt distant from God. What happened? How did you handle it?
• What did God say and do for Moses to show that he was with him?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Recount a time that you thought God couldn’t handle something that happened in your life. How did it work out?
• How did you feel when God got you through it?

 

 

Read: 1 Timothy 6:11-16

But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith.
1 Timothy 6:11,12

The Three Actions of a Child of God

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

What are the three actions of a child of God? First, flee. Second, pursue. Third, fight! Let’s talk more about each one:

First, flee. Do you know what it means to flee? The definition of flee is to run away. Maybe when you hear this word you think of a high-speed chase where the criminal is running from the police. Maybe you have had to run fast from a danger in your life. You can probably remember your heart beating out of your chest, the adrenaline rush, and how relieved you were when the danger was gone.

Paul is talking to his friend Timothy about the love of money and all the negative things that can happen when we put it before our relationship with God, He tells him godliness with contentment is a great thing. There’s danger in loving money. It’s like a trap that makes you lose your faith and the prize of heaven. Run away quickly! Flee from the temptation of loving money!

That leads us to our second action: pursue. To pursue means to run to something in order to catch it, like the policeman races to catch the criminal to keep us safe.

Here are six good things to chase after:

• Righteousness – to choose the right action over the wrong temptation
• Godliness – to love people like Jesus did and follow God’s rules
• Faith – to have complete trust or confidence in God
• Love – to be selfless and not expect anything in return
• Endurance – to continue or carry on even when things get really hard for a long time. This may demand some grit and determination like in a sporting event.
• Gentleness – to be kind and tender-hearted

Finally, the third one: fight. But aren’t we often told, “Stop fighting”? Not this time! Jesus fought for us on the cross with every drop of his blood to his last breath. His fight means we win! But he says, “I want you to fight too.” Fighting the good fight of faith involves fleeing from sin and pursuing good things. It is about deciding to fight the temptations and anything that pulls us away from God and instead leaning into him because he promises he’s right there with us in all three actions. He helps us flee temptation. He encourages us to pursue his good things. He loves to see us fight back against temptation!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God our almighty King! Thank you for loving us, forgiving us, and helping us to flee from the love of money. Help us to fight the good fight, pursuing righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness until we are victorious with you in heaven! Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What were the three actions today’s devotion encouraged?
• What does it mean to flee?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Recount as many “good things” as you can that today’s devotion encouraged you to pursue.
• Pick a fight with a bad thing you want to stop in your life with God’s help. What is it?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Explain why “fleeing” is not a sign of weakness.
• Fleeing sin, pursuing good things, and fighting for your faith. Which one do you need to get better at? Explain why.

 

 

Read: Matthew 10:5a,21-33

You will be hated by everyone because of me, but the one who stands firm to the end will be saved.
Matthew 10:22

Standing Up to Hate

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

There once was a phrase that was intended to help children handle when other kids would say mean things. It goes like this: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” Here is what that sentence means. While someone else may be able to hurt us physically, words alone can’t really do that much damage, because they’re just words.

If you have never heard that statement before, there’s probably a reason: it’s not true! Words do hurt. When other people say mean things to us or about us, it can hurt very much. It may not cause the kind of hurt that would require a Band-Aid or a cast like a physical injury could, but words can hurt us inside and make us feel sad.

The Bible tells us to always speak kindly to others so that our words don’t hurt them. However, Jesus also warns us that because we believe in him, there will be times when people will say hurtful things to and about us. In fact, Jesus even goes a step further—he doesn’t just warn us that others will say mean things to us, but that they will even hate us!

You may have experienced it when you were made fun of for going to church on Sunday. When someone else found out that you believe the Bible is actually God’s Word, they may have responded by calling you dumb for believing such a thing. When these things happen, you are experiencing what Jesus said would happen—others hate you because of him.

So, what should you do? Jesus tells us, “Stand firm.” While their words may hurt, Jesus says to stand firmly on his Word. Continue to believe and trust in him even when it means others might ridicule us or make fun of us for it. Others may hate us or dislike us, but Jesus never stops loving us. Stand firmly in his love for you, and it may just soften the hearts of those who hate so that they come to know how much Jesus loves them, too.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, words hurt, and hurtful words come from hate-filled hearts. Guard our hearts from hating others, and when others hate us because of you, keep us standing steadily on the promise of your never-ending love 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

• How does it feel when someone else says something mean to you?
• When someone else says something mean to you, how can it help to think of how Jesus feels about you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Jesus was hated too. Identify one of the times in the Bible when Jesus was hated.
• How can you find encouragement in how Jesus responded to those who hated him?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How might you be tempted to hide your faith to avoid being made fun of for it?
• What do you think it means that “hurt people, hurt people,” and how might that affect how you respond when someone else ridicules you for your faith?

 

 

Read: Jeremiah 20:7-13

But if I say, “I will not mention his word or speak anymore in his name,” his word is in my heart like a fire, a fire shut up in my bones. I am weary of holding it in; indeed, I cannot.
Jeremiah 20:9

I Can’t Help It!

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

You see the present wrapped under the Christmas tree. You know exactly what it is because you helped wrap it. You know exactly who it’s for because you helped pick it out. You can’t wait to see them unwrap it because you know how much they’ll love it.

But Christmas is still days away! It’s harder and harder to keep it a secret because you know how happy they’ll be about it. Keeping your lips sealed and not ruining the surprise for them is a real struggle. You want to say something so badly!

In a way, that was how Jeremiah felt. But he didn’t feel that way about a present wrapped under a tree. He felt that way about a greater gift—the gift of God for his people.

Jeremiah was a prophet sent to God’s people both to correct them when they were wrong and to comfort them when they were sorry and hurting because of the wrong they had done. However, not many people wanted to hear what Jeremiah had to say. They made his ministry miserable.

As tempting as it was for Jeremiah to save himself from the hurt and heartache by just keeping his mouth shut and not speaking God’s Word to God’s people, he couldn’t help it! He had to say something. He knew the words he had were God’s words and they were exactly what God’s people needed. He described it as being like a fire in his heart that had to be released. He just couldn’t keep it to himself.

Have you ever felt like Jeremiah? We may be afraid of being let down if people we think are excited to hear about Jesus end up being disinterested afterward. Or, we may be afraid of saying anything because we think we know someone else might respond angrily.

But like Jeremiah, we can’t help it! We have to share the best news anyone else can ever hear! We have to tell them about their Savior—we just can’t help it!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, free us from any fears that would keep us from making you known to others. Give us boldness and passion to proclaim 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

• Have you ever had a secret that was hard to keep?
• How does it make you feel when someone else is excited by good news that you got to share with them?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Share an example of a time you’ve been afraid to share something with someone else because you didn’t know how they’d respond.
• Make a list of people you know who don’t believe in Jesus. How might you be able to tell them about him?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What is your worst fear about talking to an unbeliever about Jesus? Now imagine that fear playing out. How would you respond and handle it?
• If we cannot relate to the feeling that Jeremiah described, what do you think it takes for a believer to feel that strongly about speaking God’s Word to others?

 

 

Read: 1 Corinthians 4:1-7

I care very little if I am judged by you or by any human court; indeed, I do not even judge myself. My conscience is clear, but that does not make me innocent. It is the Lord who judges me.
1 Corinthians 4:3,4

You Know the Judge!

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

The accused man knew he was guilty of the crime for which he was being charged. There was no hiding it. It would not be difficult for the opposing lawyer to present the necessary evidence to prove it. As he sat in the courtroom looking around, waiting for his trial to begin, the man wondered what the jurors would think of him once he was found guilty. He wondered what his family and friends would think of him after they found out. He was guilty, no question about it—his only hope was that the judge would be merciful when he determined the punishment he would have to serve.

The judge entered the courtroom, and immediately the man’s hopes swelled—he knew the judge! The judge just happened to be a close family friend. While the man still expected the judge to be fair, he was encouraged that his guilty verdict might not carry as strict a punishment since he was a friend of the judge.

We know the wrongs that we’ve done. It can be hard for us to forget them, even if they were things we did a long time ago. We, like the man on trial, wonder what other people think about us when they find out the things we’ve done. We may even find ourselves worried about how a holy God feels about us when it comes to certain sins we’ve committed.

But, like the man on trial, we know the judge—and he is our Friend! We know he is our Friend because he already gave his Son, Jesus, to suffer our punishment in our place. Even though he was never guilty himself, Jesus allowed himself to be called guilty in our place and serve our sentence.

For that reason, we don’t ever have to worry about the judge’s verdict—he called Jesus guilty in our place so that he could call us innocent. Since we have been forgiven through Jesus, we know where we stand with God because we know the judge. He is our Friend!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, we know the wrongs that we have done. But we also know your Son! Since we have faith in him, we don’t need to fear the judge. He is our Friend! 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 word would you use to describe a courtroom judge?
• What word would you use to describe God as a judge?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Can you remember something wrong you did in the past that still troubles you today?
• If Jesus died on the cross to pay for every single sin, what does that mean about your sin?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Have you ever been more concerned about how others might judge you when you’ve messed up than about what God thinks of it?
• How does knowing the judge—and his verdict—make you more comfortable confessing your sins rather than trying to hide or excuse them?

 

 

Read: Matthew 9:9-13

Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick.”
Matthew 9:12

Is There a Doctor in the House?

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

Have you ever played “doctor” before? Did you ask, “Mommy, where does it hurt?” Maybe you needed to wrap Mommy’s arm up in a bandage or take Daddy’s temperature. They were never actually sick, but it felt nice to “nurse” them back to health.

In today’s Bible reading, Jesus called Matthew to be one of his disciples. Matthew, a tax collector, was “sick.” Maybe not physically, but spiritually. Tax collectors were known for being greedy and collecting more money than people actually owed. They did not have the best reputation among the people, and yet, Jesus told Matthew “Follow me” (Matthew 9:9).

Jesus was helping someone who needed it. Matthew needed to be healed by God’s grace. He was sick with sin, and Jesus was his healer.

After calling Matthew out of his tax booth, Jesus went over to his house for dinner. How special that must have been for Matthew and all of his friends! But other people were watching and didn’t like it. Pharisees were people who thought they were better than others. They looked down on anyone who sinned more than they did. They were upset that Jesus would dine with a sinner like Matthew and his friends. They asked, “Why do you eat with tax collectors and sinners?”

Jesus answered, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick” (Matthew 9:12).

Don’t ever be afraid to admit, “I am sick” because Jesus came for sick people. While it is true we may have never stolen any money, each of us have our own personal struggles. Maybe we get mad way too easily. Maybe we tear people down with our words, disobey our parents, or love things of this world more than God. The same Jesus that called Matthew to be his disciple wants us to be his disciples too.

We live in a world full of sickness that weakens our ability to follow Jesus. Matthew might not have felt qualified to be a disciple of Jesus. We might feel like that at times too, but we are not alone. We have the greatest doctor on our side. He is the one with the power to heal our sin-sick soul. “By his wounds, we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5b).

Closing Prayer:

Dear Great Physician, forgive us when we fall short. Thank you for healing us. Give us strength as we share your news to our sick world. 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 was the name of the man Jesus called to follow him? What did he do for a living?
• How are you like Matthew? What did Jesus do to heal you?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What did Jesus mean when he said, “It’s not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick”?
• Discuss the difference between “sinners” and “Pharisees.” Which one did Jesus say he came for? Why?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Jesus ate dinner with Matthew. What meal are you getting ready to receive in the future in which Jesus promises to dine with you? (Lord’s Supper)
• What is in the Lord’s Supper that heals a sin-sick soul?

 

 

Read: Exodus 3:1-15

The LORD said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.”

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

And God said, “I will be with you.
Exodus 3:7a,10-12a

You are Chosen

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

Imagine yourself at recess. Everyone is excited to play kickball, but first the teams need to be decided. There are two captains, and it is time for them to choose who they want to be on their team. One person is picked. Then another. Then another. You start to wonder if anyone will ever pick you. Then you make eye contact with one of the captains. Your name is called. You are overjoyed and ready to help your team to victory.

In the reading for today, Moses was far from “overjoyed” to be picked for the team. God chose Moses for a very big job. He wanted Moses to go “to Pharoah and bring his people the Israelites out of Egypt” (Exodus 3:10). We are not talking about simply kicking a ball and running to first base. We are talking about clashing with the most powerful leader of the land in order to rescue millions of people. What a task! No, Moses was not “overjoyed” to be chosen. He was scared, felt completely unqualified, and simply put, didn’t want the job.

“Who am I, that I should go to Pharoah and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?” Moses asked the Lord. Moses wanted to know why the Lord would pick someone like him for such a big job. After all, he was a shepherd of sheep, not of people! How could he lead such a large group out of their terrible conditions?

But the Lord did not choose Moses lightly. He chose him on purpose. He saw that shepherd of the sheep and knew that he could lead his people out of slavery in Egypt and into the Promised Land. He did not make a mistake in choosing Moses. He knew exactly what he was doing.

God says, “I will be with you.” What a promise!

Moses wasn’t alone in his task. God didn’t give him a big job and then walk away. He told Moses that he was with him.

God is with us, too. He chose us to follow him and love him. He gave us the same promise that he will be with us. What an honor to be picked to be on God’s team. What a joy it is to know that whatever task he chooses us for, he is with us and cheering us on. With God, the victory is ours!

Closing Prayer:

Dear God, thank you for choosing me to be on your team. Help me to trust that you chose me on purpose and that you will be with me as I do the work you have given me to do. 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 was Moses doing when God called him to lead his people out of Egypt?
• Name one thing that God has chosen you to do for him?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• How did Moses feel when God called him to lead his people out of Egypt?
• What did God promise Moses to help him in his task? Explain a way that same promise of God helps you.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Think of one thing you are facing in your life that you’re not sure you can do. Ask God to help you.
• Think of some of the people that God has chosen to be your teammates in this life. Pray for them and lean on them to accomplish the tasks that he has for you to do.

 

 

Read: 2 Corinthians 13:11-14

Aim for perfection … be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you.
2 Corinthians 13:11

We Are Family

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

What a beautiful thing it is when a family loves each other. God created us to be part of a family. When you think of family, do you think of your mom and dad? Do you think of brothers or sisters? God wants there to be love and respect for each other. He also wants children to obey their parents. God is pleased with such devotion to harmony.

Ahh, but that’s not always the case, is it? There will be times when a husband does not always show love to his wife or when a wife struggles to respect her husband. Remember the last time you argued over something silly with your brother and sister? Or even your parents? When these situations occur, it is important to ask each other for forgiveness and work towards living peacefully with one each other.

That is what our reading is about today. Paul is writing to a family of believers who were struggling to live like a family—to work together and be nice to each other. What a tragedy it would be if all we ever did was argue and fight with each other. How sad would it be if no one was willing to listen to God’s Word—the one thing that can help.

But listen to these words: “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all” (2 Corinthians 13:14). Did you notice the words grace, love, and fellowship? Did you hear where they come from—God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit? Thanks to God, he gives them all! We have the undeserved love of Jesus, the love of the Father who sent his only Son, and fellowship (it means “we are together”) with one another through the Holy Spirit.

Your family at church or in your home is a beautiful testimony to the One who leads it. May he get all the glory and praise.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, help me to live in peace with everyone in my family. Teach me the importance of “us” instead of “I.” Above all, bless my family as together we learn to love each other better by remembering all the ways you loved us—especially your love for us on the cross. 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 the last time you disobeyed your parents. What went wrong?
• Who saved us from the sin of disobeying or arguing?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Members of a family (whether at home or church) help out together. Discuss how each member of your family does that at home.
• Think of two ways your family can help out at church.

Questions for Middle School and Above

• True or False. You have heard your mom complain about the lack of help she gets around the house.
• Discuss why it’s important to have God’s gifts of love, peace, and fellowship in your heart before you help around the house.

 

 

Read: John 7:37-39

On the last and greatest day of the festival, Jesus stood and said in a loud voice, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, rivers of living water will flow from within them. By this he meant the Spirit, whom those who believed in him were later to receive.
John 7:37-39a

The Spirit Still Flows Through You!

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

For many of you, summer break is already here or is right around the corner. As you are playing outside in the heat of summer, do your parents remind you to drink lots of water? Have you ever noticed how many different types of water there are? There is tap water from your sink faucet, bottled water, smart water, flavored water, water with electrolytes, ionized water, coconut water, antioxidant water, and the list goes on and on. But no matter what type of water you drink, after a few hours you will probably find yourself thirsty again.

There are many types of water but there is only one Savior for our sins. In our Bible reading Jesus says, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me and drink.” Those who come to Jesus and drink are those who believe in him as their risen Savior.

The Holy Spirit is the one who brings people to faith. Maybe you were brought to faith as a little baby when you were baptized. The pastor poured water on your head and said, “I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Through the miracle of baptism, the Holy Spirit uses water and the Word to create faith in the heart of a little baby and to wash away their sins. The Holy Spirit continues to grow and strengthen the faith of believers as they study and hear God’s Word.

But Jesus goes on to say, “Whoever believes in me… rivers of living water will flow from within them.” This river of living water is the power of the Holy Spirit which was first given to the disciples on the festival of Pentecost. They were filled with confidence and excitement to preach about Jesus. The living water of the Holy Spirit continues to flow through his believers today. It’s as if Jesus wants you to be like him and help quench the thirst of others. Knowing that Jesus did everything needed for us to be saved, we can’t help but invite others to hear about Jesus and drink so they will never be spiritually thirsty again!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Holy Spirit, what an amazing gift you have given to us in baptism in which you washed away our sins and created faith in our hearts. May your living waters flow through us as we invite others to learn about all Jesus did to save us from our sins. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What are two things you need to stay alive physically?
• What do you need to live spiritually?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• If you are baptized, ask your parents to relive your baptism day.
• What “gifts” did you receive from the Holy Spirit on the day of your baptism?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• How does knowing you have the power of the Holy Spirit working through you give you confidence to tells others about Jesus?
• Give at least two reasons people give for not believing in Jesus. How can you respond to those objections?

 

 

Read: Acts 2:1-21

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.
Acts 2:1-4

Speaking Bravely

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

Back in 2006, Google launched a service called Google Translate. This service allows you to type or speak words in one language and then translates them into a language of your choice. Today, they have over 130 languages available, and up to 100 billion words are translated each day!

Two thousand years before there was an internet, God gave his followers the special ability to speak in languages they had never learned. This happened on the day we call Pentecost. The events of Pentecost took place 50 days after Jesus rose from the dead and 10 days after he ascended into heaven. The disciples had been waiting for Jesus to keep his promise to send them the Holy Spirit. God revealed the Holy Spirit in a remarkable way. First, they heard a strong wind that filled the room they were in. Next, little flames of fire came and rested on them. Finally, they were able to speak in new languages. People from Asia, Africa, and Europe were amazed they could understand the preaching of the disciples in their own language as they taught them about their risen Savior, Jesus.

The sights and sounds of Pentecost were truly amazing. What was more unbelievable was the change in Jesus’ disciples. Ever since Jesus died, they were fearful and hiding. But now, filled with the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, they spoke bravely about all Jesus had done to save them. The Holy Spirit didn’t only work in the hearts of those disciples, he also worked in the hearts of those who heard their message. On that day over 3,000 people were added to what we call the Christian church.

God continues to send his Holy Spirit to believers today. Each time we gather at church we might not hear a strong wind, or have little flames over our head, or listen to our pastor speaking in different languages, but we can be sure the Holy Spirit is there. The Spirit is working to create and strengthen faith through the Word of God that is being proclaimed. Even though at times we might be afraid or hesitant to tell others about Jesus, he gives us the courage. Be brave, be bold, and be excited to share the news that Jesus is risen!

Closing Prayer:

Dear Risen Savior, we thank you for pouring out your Holy Spirit on that first Pentecost. Help us to be brave and courageous like your apostles as we have opportunity to tell others about you. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• Name two special things people saw and heard on Pentecost.
• Name two special people who teach you about Jesus.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What makes you afraid to talk to someone about Jesus?
• Who are the three persons of the Trinity? Which one wants to help you overcome your fear of talking about Jesus?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Pentecost is called the third great festival of the Church, along with Christmas and Easter. Why is Pentecost so important?
• Try this: Type a favorite Bible passage into Google Translate and listen to it in different languages you have never heard before.

 

 

Read: 1 Peter 4:12-17;5:6-11

Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you… And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm, and steadfast. To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 5:7,10,11

Why Worry When You Can Pray?

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

A familiar sight on weekends this time of year is baseball and softball fields full of kids. Imagine you have a game this Saturday morning. Things couldn’t have started any worse. First, you forgot your glove and had to borrow one that was too small. In the first inning you had two errors and struck out. Then everything changed. You ended up hitting four home runs, made five catches in center field, struck out all six batters in your two innings of pitching, and your team won the game 26-1. Would you say that was a bad game or a good game?

The apostle Peter tells us throughout our life on earth we will suffer because of our faith in Jesus and our desire to live for him. Peter saw and experienced the terrible suffering of Christians in the early church. They were persecuted by the Roman Empire.

That may make you pray, “Dear Jesus, don’t let bad things happen to me!” But the truth is, you will face challenges in your life. What might that look like for a 5-, 9-, or 13-year-old? Maybe it is being made fun of by others because you don’t watch certain shows or take part in behavior that God says is wrong. What if you missed a ballgame or overnight at a friend’s house because you went to church with your family? Are you afraid you might be looked at differently?

These challenges often cause us to worry or be anxious. Peter provides helpful advice to handle worry. He encourages us to “cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” It means this: Everything that makes you wrinkle up your forehead with worry lines… hurl it like a baseball in the Lord’s direction. God will catch it. Why? “Because [God] cares for you.” When another round of “Oh, no” leaves your lips… it’s so nice to know that those are the very moments God feels concern for each one of us. You are not just a “spot” in the universe. He knows and he cares!

A line in the hymn “Amazing Grace” says that when we’ve been in heaven for 10,000 years it will feel like we just arrived. We may suffer for a little while now, but it’s not going to last! May God give us strength to face challenges here on earth until that day when he calls us to our real home in heaven.

Closing Prayer:

Dear Risen Savior, help us to cast all our anxieties on you. We thank you for doing everything needed for us to be saved, and may we find comfort knowing one day we will live with you forever in our real home, heaven. Amen.

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

Questions for Younger Children

• What is something that makes you sad/scared?
• What did today’s devotion tell you to do with anything that makes you sad/scared?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Have you ever faced challenges because you are a Christian? What did it look like? How did it make you feel?
• If Jesus was able to take care of our biggest problem called sin, what does that mean for the problems where we ask for his help?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• On a scale of 1 to 5 (with 1 being “not well” and 5 being “very well”), assess how you handle problems that come your way. Based on today’s devotion, identify one thing you want to do to better handle them (i.e., prayer, etc.).
• How does knowing our time here on earth is so short compared to the eternity we will spend in heaven help you deal with challenges you face?

 

 

Read: Luke 24:44-53

Then he opened their minds so they could understand the Scriptures. He told them, “This is what is written: The Messiah will suffer and rise from the dead on the third day, and repentance for the forgiveness of sins will be preached in his name to all nations, beginning at Jerusalem… When he had led them out to the vicinity of Bethany, he lifted up his hands and blessed them. While he was blessing them, he left them and was taken up into heaven. Then they worshiped him and returned to Jerusalem with great joy. And they stayed continually at the temple, praising God.
Luke 24:45-47,50-53

Jesus and the Many Crowns

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

On September 8, Queen Elizabeth of England died. After her death, her son Charles became the king of England. However, his coronation as king didn’t happen until May 6—nine months later.

In a coronation ceremony, a crown is placed on the new king’s head. Even though Charles became king last September, May 6 was an important day. That day the world saw the crown placed on his head to show him as king.

Jesus was the King of heaven from eternity. When he became human that first Christmas, he took off his kingly crown and left it in heaven. You could say he “stored” or “set aside” the use of his powers as King so he could come do his job as our Savior.

Jesus wore two other crowns here on earth.

First, he wore the “crown” of God the Father’s approval. The Father said it at Jesus’ baptism and at his transfiguration. “This is my Son. In him I am well-pleased” (Luke 3:22, Matthew 17:5). Jesus wore the crown of pleasing God. What pleases God? Matthew 5:48 tells us. “Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Jesus wore the crown of God’s approval because he lived perfectly. He wore that crown for you, because you didn’t earn that crown by living perfectly.

Jesus wore a second crown here on earth—the crown of God’s fair punishment. It included thorns on his head, and it was part of his suffering when he died on the cross. It was what we deserved because we didn’t earn God’s approval with our lives. He wore the crown and all the suffering until the all-important words: “It is finished.”

Fast forward 43 days. Jesus has risen from the dead and spent 40 days teaching and encouraging believers. He is at the top of a mountain. He is going back to heaven to take back his crown as King. It is, in some ways, his coronation day.

His disciples watch in joy. They are seeing the coronation of their King. We watch through God’s Word. Our King is crowned. He has accomplished our salvation by wearing the crowns of God’s approval and God’s fair punishment for sin. Now he reigns in heaven, where he waits with a crown for each of us.

“Be faithful, even to the point of death, and I will give you life as your victor’s crown” (Revelation 2:10).

Closing Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you ascended to your rightful place as king of heaven. I can’t wait to someday join you there and have you place a crown of victory on my head. 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

• Why did Jesus have to leave heaven and come to earth?
• Jesus left some of his power in heaven when he came to earth. When did he get all that power back?

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• What were the two earthly crowns Jesus wore on earth to save us?
• How was Jesus’ ascension like a coronation?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• Why was God the Father pleased with Jesus?
• How was God’s approval of Jesus transferred to you?

 

 

Read: Acts 17:22-31

Therefore since we are God’s offspring, we should not think that the divine being is like gold or silver or stone—an image made by human design and skill. In the past God overlooked such ignorance, but now he commands all people everywhere to repent. For he has set a day when he will judge the world with justice by the man he has appointed. He has given proof of this to everyone by raising him from the dead.
Acts 17:29-31

Nature and Nurture

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

It can be fun to look at yourself and think about everything God uses to make you who you are. Sometimes it’s called “nature and nurture.” Nature is the way I am because of the parents I was born to, my biological parents. Nurture is the way I am because of the parents I live with. For some kids, their “nature parents” and their “nurture parents” are the same people. For kids who live with different parents than the ones they were born to, this discovery can be even more interesting.

Let’s try some together. Following is a list describing things about you. After you hear each one, determine if it is nature or nurture. Or, maybe both. Ready? Here we go:

• My eye color
• How tall I am
• I like to throw my empty soda can across the kitchen to the recycling bin
• Math feels easy for me
• I love to hike in the mountains

It is beautiful how God uses both your physical traits and what you experience to make you who you are.

The Bible calls people who believe in Jesus, “children of God.” What do God’s children look like, spiritually?

Our text says that God’s children repent. To repent means:

• Knowing when you have sinned and wishing you hadn’t done it
• Trusting that Jesus took your sin away and it isn’t a problem between you and your heavenly Father

Like people might know who your mom is because of how you look, God’s children look a certain way too. They don’t like to sin. And they know their sin is gone from God’s memory, so they aren’t afraid.

And like people might know who your dad is because you both are great helpers, people who spend time with God act a certain way. People who spend time with God in his Word know how much their Father loves them. That love pours out in lives that thank him. You look like your heavenly Father when his love inspires you to treat others kindly. You resemble him when you speak truthfully and act lovingly.

We are God’s creations, his amazing combinations of who we are and who we spend time with. Love who God made you to be.

Love even more who God made you in Jesus. You are God’s child, and it shows in your understanding of your sin and Jesus’ forgiveness. You live with God in his Word, and it shows in the life of love you offer to God and those around you.

Closing Prayer:

God’s own child, I gladly say it: I am baptized into Christ! (Christian Worship 679:1)
Thank you for making me your dear child. Help me to live as your child—being sorry for my sins, trusting that you forgive me, and living a thankful 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

• Name one thing you do the same as your mom or dad.
• Name one thing you try to do the same as Jesus.

Questions for Elementary Age Children

• Tell your parent(s) at least one way you want to be just like them.
• The Bible says: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” What are two ways you can let your light shine today?

Questions for Middle School and Above

• What is the difference between being God’s creation and God’s child?
• You are both! What is something you appreciate about being each?