Transformed – teen devotion – May 11, 2025

One key truth: Not just talk—Jesus walked the walk.

Then came the Festival of Dedication at Jerusalem. It was winter, and Jesus was in the temple courts walking in Solomon’s Colonnade. The Jews who were there gathered around him, saying, “How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Messiah, tell us plainly.”
Jesus answered, “I did tell you, but you do not believe. The works I do in my Father’s name testify about me, but you do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.”
John 10:22-30

Say What You Mean. Do What You Say.

Let’s be real—everyone has a few pet peeves. Maybe yours is when someone chews gum with their mouth wide open. Or when you’re riding in the car with just one other person, and instead of talking, they’re glued to their phone playing Candy Crush.

But here’s one that hits harder: people who say one thing… and do the total opposite. You know, that friend who promises they’ll pick you up—but they’re so late you end up texting them, only to hear some random excuse. And this isn’t just a one-time thing. They’ve done it so much that now, you don’t really believe anything they say.

Their words don’t match their actions—and that’s frustrating.

But check this out: in the Bible, Jesus says he’s not just any shepherd—he’s the Good Shepherd. And here’s the difference: Jesus doesn’t just say he cares. He actually shows it. He gave up his life for us. He’s not some random guy doing a job and peacing out when things get hard. He sticks with us, always.

People will let you down—friends, parents, siblings, even people you trust. But Jesus? He never will. He is the way, the truth, and the life. Everything he says is 100% real. And the proof? The cross. That’s how far he went to show how much you mean to him.

So as you head into this week—whatever’s coming, good or bad—remember this: Jesus is with you, and he’s already shown you just how much he loves you. Just picture his arms stretched out on the cross—that’s how wide and deep his love is.

Prayer:
Jesus, help me not just to hear your words, but to believe them—and live them out every day. Amen.