Unlocked: Daily Devotions for Teens

Ever feel like you can’t do anything right? I groaned to my friend. I had just dropped by Susanne’s house to chat. Earlier that day, I had gone shopping for a birthday present for my sister. I chose a full-length mirror to hang on her bedroom doorthe perfect gift for my fashion-conscious little sister. A slim wooden frame surrounded the mirror, giving it a decorative quality. But after purchasing it, I’d left the mirror in my car for the remainder of the day. On my way to visit Susanne, I noticed something different about the mirror. In the heat of August in Mississippi, the glue holding the frame to the mirror had melted, and the frame had become completely detached. I just knew I had ruined the present. Susanne sympathized with my feeling of failure. She too sometimes felt defeated and unable to do anything right. I would guess we all experience that from time to time. But there’s good news. As Christians, we can know that we are loved, accepted, and forgiven even when we don’t get it right. In fact, nothing we do (or fail to do) can separate us from God’s love because JesusGod in fleshlaid down His life for us and rose from the dead. Once we put our trust in Jesus, we get to be in relationship with our heavenly Father, not because of anything we’ve done, but because Jesus has made us right with God! Yet, what we do does matter. Our actions, our choices they aren’t meaningless. In fact, the Bible calls us God’s “handiwork” and teaches us that we are created in Christ Jesus to do good works (Ephesians 2:10). While nothing we do in this life will be perfect, as God’s children, we have the privilege of partnering with Him in sharing and showing the love of Jesus. Through the Holy Spirit, He empowers us to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do (Ephesians 2:10). And even when we mess up, He gives us grace. When we sin, His forgiveness is still sure. And when we make mistakes (like leaving a mirror in the car), He doesn’t shame us. It turned out I didn’t ruin the present after all. That mirror held a spot on my sister’s bedroom door for many years. She extended grace for a less-than-perfect present. And our Father extends grace for our less-than-perfect lives. Allison Wilson Lee Can you think of a time someone showed you grace after you messed upeither by making a mistake (which is not a sin) or by doing something wrong (which is a sin)? For it is by grace you have been saved, through faithand this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. Ephesians 2:8 (NIV) Read Verses: Romans 8:31-Romans 8:39; Ephesians 2:8-Ephesians 2:10

When God created the world, He gave Adam and Eve the task of caring for the earth. God gave them confidence, strength, and the ability to make decisions. And they had lots of decisions to makestarting with naming all the birds, livestock, and wild animals. I had enough trouble choosing names for my childhood pets. I can’t imagine picking names for every animal. But when Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, their ability to choose brought disobedience and shame. They lost their nearness with their Creator. What now? Would people choose to serve God or follow idols? Would they trust in God or be overcome with doubt? Would they live by faith or worry about every decision? Lately, I’ve had a tough time making decisions. I waste time deciding on plans. I type out a text, then second-guess my word choice. I worry about what to wear, or what to have for dinner, or which decision will work out best in the end. Maybe you’re with me. Maybe you’ve spent so much time trapped in your indecision that you wish someone would just tell you what to do. But we have this gift: God has not abandoned us. The world is broken, but God offers redemption. He sees our struggles and our worries. He came to be with us and to redeem what has been lost and broken. Because Jesus died and rose again, we can enjoy nearness with our Creator again. When we can’t make up our mind, we can rest in His love and lean into His help. In Matthew 6, Jesus speaks to our worries, and He says, Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness (Matthew 6:33). If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, His Spirit is in us, helping us to make choices that honor God, choices that love Him and others. And so we can put our decisions in God’s hands. We can trust Him to guide us, even when we don’t hear a clear answer about which path to take, because we know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28). We can believe that, in His love, God will lead us well. We don’t have to sit trapped in indecision. We are redeemed, confident, and strong in Him, and He has given us the ability to make decisions. Becca Wierwille What sorts of decisions tend to be most difficult for you? Who are trusted Christians in your life who can help you listen for God’s guidance? For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but one of power, love, and sound judgment. 2 Timothy 1:7 (CSB) Read Verses: Matthew 6:25-Matthew 6:34; Hebrews 4:14-Hebrews 4:16; James 1:2-James 1:8; 2 Timothy 1:7

Our broken world is full of unfairness. You might have a sibling who your parents have always treated as their favorite child. No matter how much you try to impress your parents and get them to see what you can do, their eyes are always on that sibling. This can leave you feeling frustrated or even heartbroken. Maybe you have someone who was always a friend to you until someone new started at your school. Now that person has moved on from you and all their plans revolve around their new friend. This can be hurtful, and it could make you doubt yourself and your value. But God showed how valuable you are by giving His Son for you. Jesus came to live among us, and He knows what it’s like to be treated unfairly. His friends abandoned Him, and the authorities treated Him like a criminaleven though He had done nothing wrong. But Jesus was willing to go to the cross, to die a death He didn’t deserve, and to raise from the deadall so that you could become part of God’s family. People might treat you unfairly for any number of reasons, but the way other humans treat you has no impact on how God feels about you. God loves each of us with the same kind of love. God holds your hand, and He is there for you. God gave His Son to die for you. God sees the pain you are in, and He cares about you. While life on this earth is not fair and humans often mistreat each other, you can trust that God is going to love you always, and He is never going to mistreat you. Emily Acker Can you think of a time you were treated as less than someone else? How might it be comforting to know that Jesus experienced this too? When we are treated unfairly, God has compassion on us. He invites us to cry out to Him in our pain and remember how He feels about us. Consider taking a moment to come to Jesus in prayer. The Lord appeared to us in the past, saying: I have loved you with an everlasting love; I have drawn you with unfailing kindness. Jeremiah 31:3 (NIV) Read Verses: Romans 2:11; Ephesians 3:17-Ephesians 3:19; Jeremiah31:3

Every morning the people of the village would gather for the reading of the scrolls. They were called the doom scrolls because they always contained bad news. Though no one much liked the morning routine, they couldn’t bear to stay away. They’d watch silently as the village reader carefully unrolled a scroll and read what was written insidenews of a distant war or a deadly illness sweeping across the land. Then people would shout and groan and shake their heads. After all the scrolls had been opened, the villagers would shuffle their separate ways, their hearts heavy and full of angst. One day, a young man passing through the town came to the morning reading. He listened with the other villagers as the first scroll was read. A fire swept through the fields of Hessanon just a few miles from here, and all the crops have been lost. Then a voice cried out, The fires will come here next! Another shouted, With no grain, we’ll all starve! The sound of cries and groans began to swell. We’re doomed! But the young man closed his eyes and spread his arms wide. Lord, he prayed in a booming voice, be with the people of Hessanon. Remind them that you are the God who saves, and let them feel your love and peace. Show us how we can be your hands and feet and offer them help. The cries of doom came to a halt as people turned to look at him in surprise. After several moments of silence, one woman said, We have barrels of grain stored in our cellar. More than we need. Then a man said, And I have a pony and a cart. Heads nodded in agreement, and plans were quickly made to bring several carts of food to Hessanon. As the reader continued with each piece of news, the usual moans and groans were replaced with prayers and plans to bring help to those who needed it. When the last scroll had been read, the people dispersed in small groups, a sense of purpose drowning out their angst. Their broken world desperately needed hope, and they knew the One who offered it. They had work to do. Courtney Lasater Many of us continuously scroll through bad news, and it can leave us feeling depressed and hopeless. How does Jesus provide a way for us to stay informed without succumbing to doomscrolling? Read Philippians 4:6-8 and Revelation 21:1-5. I [Jesus] have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:33 (NIV) Read Verses: Philippians 4:6-Philippians 4:8; 2 Timothy 1:7; John 16:33

It is not always easy to talk to others about Jesus. Yet all around us, there are people who need to hear about Jesus, and sometimes, they even invite us to share the gospel with them. How can we have the courage to do so? Two of Jesus’s followers, Peter and John, found themselves in this kind of situation. After Jesus ascended, they met a man in the temple who could not walk and was asking for money. Then Peter said, Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you. In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, walk (Acts 3:6), and the man was healed! All the people there were amazed, and Peter began to speak to them about Jesus. But the Jewish religious leaders were greatly disturbed because the apostles were teaching the people, proclaiming in Jesus the resurrection of the dead (Acts 4:2), and they put Peter and John in jail overnight to question them the next day. As Peter and John stood before the council, they did not shrink from witnessing about Jesus, but they courageously declared the gospel. This would not have been easy to do if God had not given them the courage, especially because the people on the council were the highest-ranking Jewish religious authorities. After Peter spoke, the elders and the rulers of the people were astonished, because they knew Peter and John were common men, uneducated. How did these two fishermen, who had no formal training in the Scriptures, gain the courage to say that they witnessed the death and resurrection of the Messiah? Then the council recognized that these men had been with Jesus. Peter and John had been close to Jesus during His ministry on earth. And after Jesus ascended, He sent the Holy Spirit to be in them. Because of this, they had the confidence and the courage to speak about Jesus (Acts 4:8). We can also have the courage to witness for Jesus, because the same Spirit is in us, as people who have put our trust in Jesus (Ephesians 4:4). Like the disciples, we can spend time being in the presence of our Lord. And this will cause us to gain confidence and boldness to be His witnesses to those who do not know Him. How do we spend time with Jesus? There’s no formula, but reading the Bible and praying are a good place to start. As we experience God’s love, we will have the courage to tell others about Him, because we have been with the Lord. Enid Adah Nyinomujuni In Acts 4:23-31, what did these people, the first Christians, pray for? How did God respond? they took note that these men had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13b (NIV) Read Verses: Acts:1:6-Acts:1:8; Acts:4:5-Acts:4:14; Luke 12:11-Luke 12:12

I was hungry. Lost. Out of options. So, I decided to go, go and try. I knew I didn’t deserve his help. I was not sure I even had the courage to ask. I knew I could not look him in the eyes. I practiced what I would say to him on the long, hungry walk. I would tell him I was unworthy unworthy to be called his child. Then I would ask to be his servant. At least if I was his servant, I would have food to eat and somewhere to live. After many days, I found myself in familiar country. Soon, I saw his place out in the distance. And then, then I thought I saw someone coming up the path. The sun was setting behind them, so I couldn’t tell who it was. They were running Maybe this wasn’t a good idea. I felt my stomach tighten and wondered if I should run. But wait, there was something familiar in the silhouette. It was my father, and he was running to me. Before I could say anything, he put forth both of his hands and grabbed my arms and pulled me close. He kissed me affectionately on my cheeks and then pressed my face to his chEsther I think he was kissing my hair. Through the emotion tightening my throat I tried to say my speech, but he interrupted me, calling to the servants and giving them directions. He guided me back to the house. Servants came and put his best robe on me. As it wrapped around me, I felt wrapped in his love. I began to relax for the first time since I had left so many years ago. Then they put a ring on my hand and shoes on my feet. And then he even told them to prepare to celebrate because I had come home. I was home. Everyone knew I did not deserve his kindness or his love, nevertheless I was loved. Surrounded in love. He had watched for me. He ran to me. He embraced me. I was loved. Jeri Howe This story is based on a parable Jesus told in Luke 15:11-32. Many people focus on the son in this passage, but try reading it focusing on the father and his love. What do you notice? Now read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7. How does the picture of the Father’s love in Luke 15:11-31 compare with Paul’s teaching on love? What aspects of love in these two passages make you curious? Which stir longing in you? Do you want to come home? You can right now. You can come home to God the Father who made you. Jesus has made it possible through dying on the cross and raising from the dead. If you put your trust in Jesus, the good news is that you can be adopted as God’s childtoday. Simply pray and tell Him you want to come home and receive His love. (See our “Know Jesus” page for more.) If you’ve put your trust in Jesus, you can ask to experience God’s pursuing, embracing, never-failing love anytime. We can ask for this with confidence because Romans 5:5 says, Hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us. If you’re ready, take a moment to pray and ask God to reveal His love for you. So he got up and went to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him. Luke 15:20 (NIV) Read Verses: Luke 15:11-Luke 15:32

I have a family member who is going through health stuff right now that has completely changed the way she lives. Before this flare up, she was able to do all the things most of us take for granted, such as going for a run or spending a whole day at the zoo. Right now, she struggles to do the little things, like putting on a pair of socks or lifting something off the floor. It hurts me to watch her struggle on a daily basis, and I get scared, thinking that she might just give up. I pray for my family member every day. I pray that God will see her through this time. I see the little ways God is helping out. I see how God is using this time to help us feel closer to Him. I see how struggles can be opportunities for us to communicate with Him and rely on Him. I hate that this world has struggles, but I know that God is with us in each one that we face. One day every pain and difficulty will be gone. My family member will be free of her pain. You will be free of yours. I will be free of mine. I thank God that He has created a future for us that is something to look forward to. Emily Acker Do you have struggles that feel like too much, or do you have a family member with those kinds of struggles? How can looking toward Jesus’s returnwhen He will raise all God’s people from the dead and we will live with Him in renewed creationgive you hope? God is so good that He can use even something as terrible as suffering to draw us closer to Him. Can you think of a time you felt close to God? Consider taking a moment to thank Him for this. That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9 (NLT) Read Verses: 1 Peter 5:6-1 Peter 5:10; 1 Corinthians 2:9

I see her struggle and it hurts I believe it hurts you too, Jesus Help her understand that you know Help her see that you are in control Let her hold on a little longer Let her become a little stronger I see her push through another day My heart breaks to watch her, so I pray I have no real control You are the One ultimately in control I want the best for her You want the best for her Help her see that we care about her Help her be brave and not fear Help her as she struggles It hurts for me to watch Emily Acker Have you ever had a family member go through something so difficult that it broke your heart just to watch them? Have you had a friend face an illness where it felt like God had abandoned them? God cares deeply about our suffering. He doesn’t stand far away from our pain, rather He came near and experienced it with us. He endured the cross, even to the point of death. And then He rose from the dead, defeating death forever. If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, we can look forward to the day He will return and fully heal every hurt. In the meantime, He promises to be with usgrieving our hurts alongside us and caring for our needs. Can you think of a time you were struggling, and you felt God’s presence? If not, you can ask Him right now to let you know He’s with you. God often reveals Himself through the community of believers and through His Word. Who is someone in your life who is struggling? Consider taking a moment to pray for them. The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us; the God of Israel is our fortress. Psalm 46:7 (NLT) Read Verses: Psalm 46

Our world throws around the word “love” a lot. We love chocolate; we love sports; we love our friends. But what does love even mean? God’s Word, the Bible, helps us understand what love is. True love comes from God because God is love (1 John 4:8, 16). In 1 Corinthians 13, Paul paints a vivid picture of love: it is patient, kind, humble, generous, forgiving, and never gives up. God shows His perfect love in all He has done for us. God loves us so much that even when we rejected Him and lived in sin, He sent His Son Jesus to die for us so that everyone who puts their trust in Him can have eternal life and be with Him forever. Because God loves us, He has freed us from the guilt and enslavement of sin, and one day we will live forever without sin. As Christians, we are totally forgiven, and now God calls us to live according to His good ways. It wouldn’t be loving for God to say, Go ahead and sin, because sin hurts us and those around us. Instead, when we live in His love, we keep God’s commands (John 14:15). And God doesn’t expect us to be able to do this in our own strength; rather, the Holy Spirit empowers us to obey Him. In Matthew 22:36-40, Jesus summarized what following Him looks like in two commandments. The greatest commandment is to love God and follow Him with our lives. The second commandment is to love others as we love ourselves. Jesus calls us to show His love to everyone, even our enemies and those who are different from us (Matthew 5:44). After all, this is how God loves us. While we were God’s enemies, He restored us to relationship with Him through Jesus’s death and resurrection (Romans 5:10). Because of what Jesus has done, we can live in God’s love for us. Our human love fails, and our ideas of love are broken and distorted by sin. But God’s unconditional love never fails. Nothingno sin, no power, no personcan separate us from His love (Romans 8:31-39). Abby Ciona Can you think of a time someone showed you genuine love? How might God be inviting you to receive His love today? And how might He be giving you opportunities to share His love? But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. Romans 5:8 (NLT) Read Verses: Matthew 22:36-Matthew 22:40; 1 Corinthians 13:4-1 Corinthians 13:7; 1 John 4:7-1 John 4:21; Romans 5:8

There are times when we are in the midst of a really heavy and difficult situation, and something happens that causes us to laugh. We could be mourning someone we lost, but a memory of them brings us joy or is funny to us. God knows what it takes to get us through tough times, and He is always there to give us the help we need. When we have anxiety, God is there to console us and give us joy. When we are sad, He is there to wipe our tears and maybe even provide us with a little humor to keep us going. When we are down, He reminds us that the world is in His hands and everything is going to work out. In the end, Jesus will return to dwell with His people, and ââ¬ËHe will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or crying or pain (Revelation 21:4). And Jesus also promised His followers, Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age (Matthew 28:20). We are never alone in any kind of difficult situation. God is always with us. He knows what we are going through, and He is helping us. It can feel good to know that, as we seek God, He is going to provide for us, no matter what we face, and He will always make sure that we have moments of peace and joy in the midst of all the struggles. Emily Acker Have you ever felt God with you in a really hard time? God invented laughter and humor! Can you think of a time you were struggling but something funny made you feel a little better? Consider taking a moment to thank God for this. When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy. Psalm 94:19 (NIV) Read Verses: Psalm 73:23-Psalm 73:26; Luke 6:21; Psalm 94:19

The outrage on the judge’s face multiplied, and he spit his next words. The penalty for her sin is death. You cannot waltz in here and demand that justice not be served. The man beside me took a long breath, and in a sad voice said, I know. My heart sank, and I covered my face in my sin-stained hands. That’s why I will take her place. “What?” I thought. What? The judge echoed my own thoughts. Execute me instead, the man said. His face was pained, but his words were sure. The judge thought it over for a moment, then the cruel smile returned to his face. Very well. He lifted his hand to call in the guards. “No,” I thought. I spun in my seat and grabbed the man’s hand at the same moment the guards took hold of his arms. His warm hand squeezed my fingers, and then he was yanked away from me. No! I jumped after him, but a guard shoved me down. I hit the ground, and the air was knocked from my lungs. I heard fabric rip as the guards struggled to push him from the room, and when I looked up, one of the guards had torn the man’s shirt clean off. And then the room was silent again. The man had no Mark None. No concealed sin. His skin was flawless, unblemished. This man was completely innocent. He didn’t fight them as they dragged him from the room. I could hear his grunts as they beat him on the other side of the doors. Immediate execution had been my sentence, and that was now this man’s fate. I sat in the courtroom. I couldn’t move as the guards carried out his sentence. I knew when it was finished, because the sky outside the courtroom window darkened and a chill filled the room. A groan passed through the earth, and it began to rain. Days later, I walked home from the market and passed in front of the courthouse where I’d waited to die. I stopped in front of it and looked at the cold, marble pillars. So starkly perfect compared to the sin marks that still clung to my skin. I turned away, but voices stopped me. In the distance I could hear people shouting, their voices growing louder and more frantic. Then, from down the street, a crowd of people sprinted past me. Their faces a mixture of panic, confusion, and fear. What’s happening? I asked one woman who stumbled in front of me. They executed a man a few days ago, she said. And now hehis grave is empty! His body is gone. Stolen, maybe. But everyone is saying he’s well, they’re saying he’s What? What are they saying? Her face paled, but I didn’t miss the thrill in her eyes. He’s risen. A smile spread across my lips. He’s risen. I looked down at my hands, and my tattoos were gone. Emily Tenter Have you experienced the saving power of Jesus, or are you still bearing the stain of your sin? If you’re not sure, who is a trusted Christian in your life you could talk to? (You can also find more information on our “Know Jesus” page.) If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 (NLT) Read Verses: Colossians 2:13-Colossians 2:15

The jury was silent. The judge’s face turned red with anger. I’ll ask you again. Who do you think you are, bursting into this courtroom? The man who had just run in from outside was still looking at me as the judge spoke, but his attention slowly shifted back to the judge. What is this woman’s offense? he asked. The judge barked a laugh that held no humor, only cruelty. What is her offense? Just look at her! The jury rustled, and dark chuckles rose at the man’s silly question. There was no arguing that I was guilty. To humor him, the judge held up a long scroll of paper, filled with all of my sins. Would you like to take a look for yourself? My cheeks burned as the judge held the paper out to the man who stood beside me. But he didn’t take it. I clasped my hands together, the skin on them covered with thick swirls that I knew reached up my arms and crawled up the sides of my neck. Then I looked at the man beside me. He wore plain clothes, but his arms were exposed, and there was no tattoo marring his brown skin. I saw no marks on his neck, or on his feet. Who was this man? He never looked away from the bloodthirsty judge. The mark of sin is on this woman, yes. Perhaps the individual on this jury who bears no mark of their own should be the one to carry out her execution. Silence. No one moved. The judge’s mouth had fallen open, and the jury sat staring with wide eyes at the man who dared to barge in and speak in defense of such a lowly sinner. I saw the judge and jury shift beneath the thick robes they wore. Robes intended to conceal any marks on their own skin and make them appear holy before the courtroom. The man didn’t say anything else; he only waited in the uncomfortable silence. After what felt like an eternity, one of the jurors, an old woman, stood from her seat and left the room. Emily Tenter This story is an allegory of John 8:1-11, when Jesus was confronted by the religious leaders regarding a woman who was caught in the act of adultery. What did Jesus tell them in verse 7? In light of this, how does Jesus call us to view people whose sins are obvious to us? For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God’s glorious standard. Romans 3:23 (NLT) Read Verses: John 8:1-John 8:11; Romans 3:23

I crossed my arms over my stomach self-consciously, trying to hide the tattoos that condemned me. I’m not sure why I bothered. Everyone in the courtroom had seen all they needed to. Every citizen bore the sin mark, but some were more visible than others. And my tattoos were a grim stain that covered my hands and arms, even crawling up the sides of my neck. I’d had the mark my entire life. I’d never lived a single day without it. But as I’d grown olderas I succumbed to my selfish desires, my greed, my lustthe mark had grown. It had stained my skin so that anyone could see. The judge sat high on his perch, draped in crimson robes and wearing a twisted expression of disgust as his eyes flicked down to my stained hands. The jury was the same. Two perfect lines of scowling faces. Each juror was wearing a clean pressed robe, reminding me I was at their mercy. I sat in my creaky chair, and I felt naked beneath their scrutiny. This couldn’t be happening. The judge stood slowly from his seat, gavel in hand. You have been found guilty of all charges and are hereby sentenced to immediate execution. It felt as if the floor was falling out from beneath me as he lifted his gavel to seal the sentence. But before the wood of the gavel connected with the block, the double doors at the back of the courtroom were thrown open. I spun around in my chair, and through the blur of my own tears I saw a man racing toward the judge. Wait! he shouted. He stopped beside my chair. There was sweat on his brow, and he was out of breath. How far had he run? The judge’s face contorted in fury. How dare you! This is a closed courtroom! The man looked over at me. He must have seen the fear and desperation in my eyes, the tears that threatened to spill over, the humiliation and shame. His own eyes filled with compassion and love. But why? Who was this man? And what could he do to save me from what I rightfully deserved? Emily Tenter Can you remember a time when people knew you were guilty of sin? What did that feel like? We all sat guilty under the law, but Jesus raced in to save us. How might this give you hope? So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1 (NLT) Read Verses: Psalm 51:5; Romans 8:1-Romans 8:4

It’s not often that I eat out, but this one time in February was especially memorable. I was in the drive-thru of a burger joint with my mom. Want anything? she asked. I said no, but when I smelled my mom’s perfect burger, I changed my mind. Thankfully, she was patient and turned around. But the restaurant got my order wrong; they gave me extra buns. I shrugged my shoulders and was prepared to dive into the juicy burger when my mom spotted something that hadn’t been on the drive-thru curb before: a bird. Immediately, I knew why I had those extra bread buns. God had given them to me to feed the poor bird on that frigid day. It was a literal picture of when Jesus said, Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? (Matthew 6:26). I got to live out that verse! This encourages me in two ways. First, like Jesus said, if God loved that bird enough to place me at the right spot at the right time with the right resources to feed it, what does that mean He’ll do for me or you? We’re worth more to God than any bird, and we can depend on God to take care of us. He promised, and He meant it! Second, while we often worry about God providing for us, sometimes we forget that God might be taking care of others through us. God may give us extra that we can use to bless others. Usually, I feel like I’m the one that others bless. But in feeding that bird, I was reminded that God will always make a way to use my resources, whatever they are, to give to others. And what a blessing it is that I get to give! Lizzie Joy One of the primary ways God provides for the needs of His people is through His people. Can you think of a time God cared for you through someone else’s resources? What resources or skills do you have that you could use to bless others? Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Matthew 6:26 (NLT) Read Verses: Matthew 6:25-Matthew 6:34; 2 Corinthians 9:6-2 Corinthians 9:8

A friend changing schools. A sibling getting married. A family member moving to another time zone. It’s hard when people we care about leave the rhythms of our everyday lives. Even if we’re happy for them, even if we know the change will be good for them, it can still leave us feeling like part of our lives is missing. Yet God’s love and goodness remain. So how does God meet us in these times? And how can we lean into His help? Mourn the losses. I’ve found that it helps me to take some time to be alone with God and process the things that I will miss when the person is gone. From the big things to the small things, God cares about all of it. As I continue to tell Him about the losses, the Holy Spirit reminds me that God is with me, grieving my hurts alongside me. Sometimes the sadness feels like too much for me to hold, and in these moments, it’s been such a comfort to know that Jesus can hold all my sorrow (Isaiah 53:4). Notice the fears. Another thing I’ve started doing is letting myself consider what about this change makes me feel uneasy. “Will the other person be okay? Will I be okay? Will our relationship fall apart?” As I notice each of my fears, I can bring these to Jesus. So much is out of my control, but nothing is out of His. God helps me remember that He will continue to provide, to draw us to Himself, and to show us His goodness and love. Acknowledge the envy. Sometimes, I feel envious when I am the one left behind while others get to do something new and exciting. But I can bring this envy to God and tell Him how I’m feeling, and even ask Him to give me a glimpse of what He’s doing in my life in this season. As I come to Him, He reminds me that He is trustworthy to guide me in good paths (Psalm 23:3). Find ways to connect. When I look to the future, it helps me feel more hopeful when I consider ways I can be intentional about staying connected with the people I love. When something makes me think of them, like a song or a joke or a pretty tree, I can tell them. I can send letters, messages, or packages. Maybe we can find a new rhythm, like having a phone or video call once a week. In the Bible, we see that Christians often wrote letters to each other, sharing good news and bad news, asking for help and advice, encouraging each other, and expressing their love for one another and their desire to see each other again. Hannah Howe Does one of these four sections stick out to you? What caught your attention? Surely your goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life Psalm 23:6a (NIV) Read Verses: Psalm 5:1-Psalm 5:3; Psalm 23; Psalm 142:1-Psalm 142:3

God is capable of miracles. He can do anything. When we start to worry about what is going on in our lives, our country, or the world, it helps to remember that nothing is impossible for God. No matter how dark and hopeless things may seem, God can turn them around. Just look at the miracles He has done before. When Moses and the Israelites needed to cross the Red Sea, God made a path right down the middle for them. When two men who were blind came to Jesus, He healed them. He also drove demons out of people and healed those who couldn’t walk, and He even brought the dead back to life. Anything is possible with God (Mark 10:27). He is bigger than anything in our lives, our country, or the world. Health problems, family issues, wars God is bigger than all of it. Throughout time, God has done miracles. He has saved us and shown us His love over and over again. He has been kind to His creation. One day, God will unite heaven and earththe ultimate miracle. When Jesus rose from the dead, this was just the beginning of new creation. When He returns, everyone who has put their trust in Jesus will be raised from the dead to live forever with Him! Then, There will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain (Revelation 21:4). As we wait for God to renew creation, things won’t always go our way. Sometimes, we long for a miracle that doesn’t happen. But we can still trust Himand we can always hold on to hope through the power of the Holy Spirit (Romans 15:13). In everything, God is working for our good, and nothing can separate us from His love (Romans 8:28, 38-39). Remember that God knows what is best, and He is bigger than anything. Bethany Acker Have you ever asked God to do a miracle? Do you have a favorite story in the Bible that reminds you of God’s goodness and power? Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Hebrews 10:23 (NLT) Read Verses: Matthew 9:23-Matthew 9:33; Hebrews 10:23; Exod:14:13-Exod:14:16

Do you sometimes feel insignificant? Perhaps someone made a remark that hurt you deeply. Criticisms regarding your intelligence, background, appearance, or beliefs can be distressing. Or you might live in a household where praise is sparce, and it seems like nothing you do is good enough. We all have different circumstances, yet low self-esteem can attack any of us unexpectedly, leaving us feeling fragile. Physical symptoms of low self-esteem include headaches, tiredness, slumped shoulders, and frowning. Emotional signs can be tears, anger, negative comments, or detachment from things we usually enjoy. When people reject us, it can shake our confidence. But it’s important to remember that, when someone criticizes us, what they say may not be true. People make snap judgements based on human opinions, and these comments can hurt. So what can we do? We can run to God, our Creator who loves us. He knows the truth about us. He says we are precious and uniquely made (Psalm 139:13-14). He has a purpose for our lives. God loves us so much that, even though we all do wrong and mess up, He made the way for us to be saved (John 3:16-17). He gave us His precious Son so that we might live. Jesuswho is fully God and fully humanwillingly sacrificed His life for ours, and God raised Him from the dead. If God, who is divine and infinitely loving, has done something so amazing for us, then that indicates how cherished and valued we are. So even when feelings of insecurity attack us, as Christians we do not have to be downcast, but instead we can remind ourselves that God forgives us. He loves us. He guides us. And He invites us to live a joyful life with Him. He heals our deep wounds and strengthens us through the Holy Spiritwho lives inside Christians. Yes, we will all be broken and imperfect until Jesus returns to make us new, but God declares we are wonderful to Him. What a celebration that is! Cindy Lee When do you find it difficult to believe that you are valuable or worthwhile? Who is a trusted Christian in your life who can remind you of what God says about you and pray for you when you’re having a hard time? How might God be giving you opportunities to be this kind of friend to others? I will give thanks to you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful. My soul knows that very well. Psalm 139:14 (WEB) Read Verses: Psalm 139:13-Psalm 139:18; Ephesians 3:14-Ephesians 3:21

My fingers shook. The rough rock walls around me didn’t afford many hand holds. My feet pressed against the sides to keep me from falling down this cold, dark shaft. My knees were scraped, my hands bloody. I lifted my head again to look at the scrap of light far above me. No one was coming. My arms started shaking, my feet were slipping. All I could think was, “Help.” “Let go.” Did I hear the words bounce off the rock shaft, or did I just think them? An empty place moaned in my chest where I wished hope was. The light above me grew dim as my vision blurred. I could only hold myself up for so long. I’d tried climbing up every way I could think, but every time I tried, I just seemed to fall farther and farther down this dark hole. “Let go.” There it was again. I couldn’t think straight. How long had it been since I’d had a drink of water? My breath rattled. I strained to push myself up, but I had no strength left. Was that crackling I heard? My right foot shiftedand I plummeted a few feet deeper. Pain seared my left arm where the rock wall tore at my skin. Why? I moaned. “Let yourself fall.” Okay, three times. Maybe that was me, maybe it wasn’t. But what other options did I have? Either wait for my muscles to give out completely or pull my limbs close to my body and hope I didn’t lose any. I shuddered. Are you sure about this? I asked the voice. “Trust me,” it replied. I let out a sigh then let myself fall. Fall. Fall. SPLASH! I bobbed up to the surface with a gaspI was floating. I didn’t even need to kick to keep my head above the was this water? It glowed a soft blue-green. Wait. I leaned my head back and let my feet float up to a laying-down position. The cave ceiling was covered in blue-green stars. Bioluminescent, I breathed. Beautiful. And the ceiling was movingor I was. That was more likely. Downstream I floated, watching the beauty above me. My muscles weren’t shaking anymore. I even felt relaxed. My arm didn’t hurtwhat? I lifted my arm from the water and saw new skin where it had been bloody and raw. A laugh bubbled out of me and echoed off the cavern walls. “Let me carry you.” The voice was comforting, and I felt myself drifting to sleep. When I woke up, I heard the trickling of the current, drips from stalactites, and the voice whispered, “It’s time.” Then I felt myself being moved to the rocky bank of the underground river. I pushed myself up out of the water with surprising ease. “This way.” I turned and saw a glowing path that shimmered along the cave floor. One step at a time, I followed the path carefully. The path started to grow dimmer. “No!” I dropped to my knees in dismay. “Look up.” The voice was gentle. Then I noticed the path wasn’t darker, the cave was getting lighter. I rushed forward as the light grew brighter, until I could see an opening in the rock. I ran into the warm light of day. Hannah Howe Have you ever felt like you were stuck in that dark hole? We all have times when we get in trouble, either because of our sin or simply because we live in a broken world. Throughout the Bible, God makes it clear that we cannot save ourselves, but He wants to save us. There is nothing we could do to earn God’s kindness, yet, through Jesus, He generously gives us mercy and makes us new. When do you find it difficult to accept God’s kindness? Oftentimes, the way out is not taking matters into our own hands or trying harder but humbly acknowledging that we can’t do it and leaning into God’s help. And He is so goodalong the way He brings healing to our weary souls. How might God be inviting you to rely on Him today? When I said, My foot is slipping! Your loving kindness, Yahweh, held me up. Psalm 94:18 (WEB) Read Verses: Psalm 94:17-Psalm 94:19; Psal...

Does silence ever make you uncomfortable? It makes me uncomfortable sometimes. Especially when I am trying to get to know a new friend. I often feel nervous when there is a lull in the conversation, leaving an awkward silence. And although it is not a sin, we probably all know someone who talks like silence is a sin. For some reason, it seems we like to avoid silence. Yet, I have found that silence can be an ultimate sign of comfort. In my closest relationships, I find that I don’t feel awkward when there is silence between us. I don’t feel pressured to perform or guilty that I am not entertaining them. I feel safe around someone when I know it is okay not to speakwhen I can just sit and enjoy being in their presence. To me, it’s a sign of a healthy relationship when silence becomes comfortable. In the same way, I think it’s easy for us to feel pressure or discomfort when God seems silent. God always loves to hear us talk to Him in prayer, and He always answers in His perfect timing. But I wonder if the times we feel like God is silent are actually opportunities for us to rest in the assurance of our relationship with Him. Jesus came to earth to make right our broken relationship with Him and give us an opportunity to be with Him again. And I think part of restoring that right relationship could be obtaining a comfortable silencea peace in God’s presence and character. Abigail Scibiur Do you feel uncomfortable when it seems like God is silent? Why do you think you feel uncomfortable in those times? If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, we can know that we are totally secure in His love (John 10:28-30). How might this truth give you hope in times of silence? Do you agree that comfortable silence is a sign of a healthy relationship? Do you feel like you have that kind of relationship with God? Who is a trusted Christian you could talk to about practices that might help you grow closer to God? The Lord your God is among you, a warrior who saves. He will rejoice over you with gladness. He will be quiet in his love Zephaniah 3:17 (CSB) Read Verses: Psalm 62; Ephesians 3:17

It was the event of the season! I eagerly awaited my invite but it never came. Before this event was even a possibility, I had poured into this person. God laid it on my heart to encourage, pray, and upliftand I did just that for well over a year. When a friend of mine was chattering excitedly about the event, I was happy for her, but my own ego was bruised. What was wrong with me? Why was I not invited? I risked a quick sniff of my armpitsmaybe I smelled? Later that day, I began to analyze all my interactions and conversations with this person, coming up with zero reasons why I would not merit an invitation. Since others who had known this person for half the amount of time I had were getting an invite, something had to be wrong with me. That was when I felt like God spoke to my heart: What is your motivation for love? The realization cut deepsomewhere along the line, my original motivations of encouragement had morphed into entitlement. Perhaps it’s time we all took a hard look at what motivates us to show love to others. Are we pouring into others to gain special privileges? Are we showing kindness simply to receive kindness? Are we giving so we will look good in the eyes of those around us? Are we serving so we can cash in when a need arises? The only one with ultimately pure motivations is God. We did nothing to deserve the sacrifice of His Son, yet He loved us without expecting anything in return (1 John 4:9-10). The way Jesus loves us is selfless, and this is the way of love He calls us to emulate (verse 11). Our motivation for love should be because he first loved us (verse 19). In our relationships with those around us, may we have the same mindset of Christ: humbly putting others first without seeking anything in return (Philippians 2:2-5). May we daily choose to put on compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and forgiveness, with love as the binding agent (Colossians 3:12-14). Savannah Coleman Can you think of a time you showed kindness to someone for the wrong reasons? God knows we are sinful and selfishyet He loves us. That’s why Jesus came to save us, humbly laying down His own life so that we could live. If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, we are totally forgiven, and the Holy Spirit transforms us to be more and more like Jesus. When we rely on His strength to help us in our weaknesses, He transforms our motivations and helps us be sincere in our love. We love because he first loved us. 1 John 4:19 (NIV) Read Verses: Philippians 2:1-Philippians 2:18; Colossians 3:12-Colossians 3:17; 1 John 4:7-1 John 4:21

No one enjoys getting hurt, but because we live in a world that has been broken by sin, we get hurt often. Sometimes, this hurt comes from other people. The ones we trust the most, and are closest to, can really mess with our life. People can push us around and use us. They can break our heart and disappoint us. Daily life holds a lot of pain. Jesus experienced that pain while He was on earth, and He understands what we are facing. Before it came time for Jesus to go to the cross and die a very painful death, He asked God if that was something He really had to do. He knew the pain He was going to feel, not only from what was physically going to happen but also emotionally, as people would insult Him and mock Himand even His closest friends would betray Him, deny Him, and run away from Him. Jesus knew that going to the cross meant that He would endure all of God’s wrath for the sins of the whole world. And His Father would not reach down and stop the pain from happening. Even though Jesus knew God would raise Him from the dead after three days in the tomb, He was still in agony on the night before He went to the cross (Matthew 26:38). But He was willing to endure it, because it was the only way to save usto forgive our sin and heal our broken world. A few days earlier, Jesus was deeply sad when His friend Lazarus died. Even though Jesus knew He was about to raise Lazarus from the dead, He wept alongside His friends. Pain is a part of life, but we serve a God who understands our pain. A God who is there for us in the midst of suffering. A God who became human and endured immense painbecause He loves us. A God who has promised that He will right every wrong and put an end to pain forever (Revelation 21:1-6). If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, we can know that when people hurt us, when they make life miserable for us, God stands with us. He helps us. He soothes us. He empowers us to forgive those who have wronged us. And He walks with us through the pain. Emily Acker What is causing you pain today? If you’ve put your trust in Jesus, you are never alone in your pain. Jesus is with you, and you are part of His family, the church. How does God invite us to receive comfort from Him and from fellow Christians? (2 Corinthians 1:3-7) When someone hurts us deeply, what might healthy boundaries look like? If you’re not sure, who can you ask, such as a pastor, parent, teacher, counselor, coach, or youth leader? If you’ve been hurt deeply and need someone to talk to, you can set up an appointment for a one-time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on the Family Counseling Service. In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate. If you or someone you know is suffering from abuse, and if your situation is potentially life-threatening, call 911 (or the emergency number for your area) or go to the local hospital emergency room right away. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 (NIV) Read Verses: Luke 22:39-Luke 22:44; John 11:32-John 11:37; Psalm 34:18

In John 5:1-9, Jesus goes to Jerusalem, to a place called the pool of Bethesda. The author, John, who was probably with Jesus at the time, tells us there were a great number of disabled people (verse 3) at the pool of Bethesda. Some of these people were blind, some couldn’t walk, and some were sick. All, apparently, were looking for some kind of miraculous healing by the waterside. John records that Jesus speaks to one man in particularand heals him! So why does Jesus choose to heal this man? He certainly isn’t well-connected. He tells Jesus that he has no one to help him into the poolno friends, no family. He is not a special or holy manin fact, Jesus warns him after he is healed: Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you (verse 14). Really, we see no obvious reason why Jesus chooses this man for healing instead of others waiting at the pool of Bethesda. And maybe that’s the point. This man has nothing at all to recommend him as a candidate for grace. He is powerless, sinful, alone in the world and helpless to save himself. But Jesus comes along, finds this man in his misery, and graciously heals him. At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked (verse 9). The ways God works are often mysterious to us, and we may never understand why Jesus healed this particular man on this particular day. But we can see a picture of God’s grace in this one man’s healing. He is like every lost sinner, and every last one of us. Ephesians 2:12 puts it this way: You were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. Like the man sitting at the pool of Bethesda, we are all hopeless and helpless; there is nothing we can do to save ourselves. But God extends grace to us. He loves us, and He came to be with us. Jesus, God in flesh, brings healing to our brokenness. He died and rose from the dead because it was the only way to save us from our sins. If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, we are no longer separated from God. We are totally forgiven, and we get to look forward to the day Jesus will return and permanently heal all our brokenness. What a picture of grace! Laura N. Sweet Have you ever felt like you didn’t deserve God’s help? How might John 5:1-15 speak into this? he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. Titus 3:5a (NIV) Read Verses: John 5:1-John 5:15; Ephesians 2:12-Ephesians 2:13; Titus 3:3-Titus 3:8

“Praise the Lord! the man yelled. Here comes the authoress! The man was Pastor D. L. Moody, a well-known teacher an evangelist, and he was introducing one of the most prolific hymn writers in the United States of America, Fanny Crosby. Her hymns had touched and inspired millions who attended his church revival meetings. She only found herself on stage because there was no other seating available, but Moody was delighted to have her there. Fanny was born in Putnam County, New York, in 1820. In infancy she developed a bad cold, causing inflammation in her eyes. A doctor applied mustard plasters, which some thought caused damage, and Fanny lost her sight. At the New York Institution for the Blind, she became a teacher and wrote song lyrics and other poetry. In addition, she had the honor of becoming the first female voice heard publicly in the United States Senate Chamber in Washington, DC. She even read one of her poems there. How awesome is that? In 1858, she married a fellow scholar, Alex Van Alstyne (who was also blind), and they had one child. But when their child died in infancy, Fanny was badly grieved. Her hymn Safe in the Arms of Jesus is believed to be the result of that grief. In the lyrics of this beautiful hymn, she expresses how wonderful it is to be close to Jesus, Safe on His gentle breast / There by His love o’reshadowed / Sweetly my soul shall rEsther She also looks forward to the day Jesus will make all things new, when we will be Free from the blight of sorrow / Free from my doubt and fears. How many other suffering parents were comforted by that hymn? Fanny wrote an astounding eight thousand hymns. She gave all credit for her gift of hymn writing to the Lord. She also worked relentlessly to serve people who were impoverished and living in the inner city, most of whom were immigrants. She was an amazing woman for whom things could have turned out so differently. Instead of despair, she chose to draw near to her Lord and Savior. The next time you hear Blessed Assurance or Pass Me Not Oh Gentle Savior, remember the woman who wrote them, Fanny Crosby. Susan Sundwall No matter what your circumstances are, God has given you gifts that are important in His kingdom. What are some ways you can serve Jesus in your context? Have you ever experienced Jesus’s love and closeness through worship music and hymns? Sing a new song to the Lord; let the whole earth sing to the Lord. Psalm 96:1 (CSB) Read Verses: Psalm 30; Ephesians 5:18-Ephesians 5:20; Psalm 96:1

Sleep hasn’t come easily to me lately. One of the most calming things I have found to do in the night, when my mind won’t shut down or I am dealing with anxiety, is to open the Bible app on my phone and read a chapter or two. In the night, when the world is quiet and I am all alone, I can feel a different kind of worry and a different kind of darkness. Yet, in the night, when the world is quiet and I am all alone, I can also experience a different kind of concentration and I can make the most of a different kind of silence. When I read my Bible in the night, I not only have the chance to forget the worries that are on my mind, but I also have the opportunity to really focus on what I am reading without anyone interrupting me. When I read my Bible in the night, I have the chance to understand things in a new way. Jesus came to set us free from sin and death, and all the brokenness that comes along with it. Jesus wants us to come to Him for help whenever we are feeling distressed. I want to sleep well. I pray and ask God for good sleep each night. But there is something to be gained through waking in the night and having the chance to get closer to God in the quiet. Like a kid going to their parents’ bed after a bad dream, I turn to God for comfort. Emily Acker Has reading the Bible ever helped you when you were feeling stressed? Sleep is an important part of our physical and emotional health. Sometimes, we need help in order to give our bodies the sleep we need, and that’s okay. If you have difficulty sleeping, who is a trusted adult you can talk to, such as a parent, counselor, or doctor? Come to me, all of you who are weary and burdened, and I [ Jesus] will give you rEsther Matthew 11:28 (CSB) Read Verses: Proverbs 3:21-Proverbs 3:24; Matthew 11:25-Matthew 11:30; Psalm 119:103-Psalm 119:105

I live far from the ocean, but I loved each trip that I have been able to take to it. I love watching the waves come in and hearing them hit against the shore. I love the color of the water. I love walking in the sand. I also enjoy trips to local parks and the opportunity to just be out in the sun. I love the green leaves that show up on trees in the spring, and I appreciate the beauty of the orange leaves that come out in the fall. I love the blossoming trees and the flowers that open up when the weather gets warm. I love much of what nature offers, and I love that God created this world for us to enjoy. I am thankful to God for the fresh air coming through my window right now, and the view that I have as I sit and write. This world is amazing, and the God who created it is worthy of our praise. The God who created this world really knew what He was doing, and there is so much for us to discover as we travel, spend time outside, and even look out the window. I am grateful for all I have seen of this world so far. I am eager to get out and see more of this world, and I am intent on praising God for all of it. Emily Acker What is one of your favorite things about nature? Why do you think God invites us to enjoy the things He has created? How countless are your works, Lord! In wisdom you have made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. Psalm 104:24 (CSB) Read Verses: Psalm 104

I happen to live in a coastal area that is very windy. Oftentimes, the strong winds cause a lot of destruction by blowing away house roofs and destroying trees and crops in the gardens. At one time, the winds ravaged my maize garden, leaving the maize plants bent. So, I had to get sticks to support them so they would not fall flat and get completely uprooted. However, I have noticed one particular tree that is never shaken by the winds the palm tree. When other trees are torn out by the wind, the palm tree remains in its position, unmoved because of its deep roots that give it stability. On our own, we are all like maize, easily bent and broken by the winds of life. But Jesus makes us like the palm tree. Proverbs 10:30 says, The righteous will never be uprooted. While all people do wrong and none of us can be righteous, JesusGod in fleshcame to die on the cross for us and raise from the dead so that we could become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). When we put our trust in Jesus, He dwells in us through the Holy Spirit. His power holds us fast. In Him, we are rooted and established in love (Ephesians 3:17). In life, there are many winds that blow against us and cause us to fear, or even to wonder if God is really good. From strained relationships, to illness in our families, to financial hardship and natural calamities so many things cause us stress and threaten our stability. When we feel like we are being blown away by the strong winds of life, when we need an arm to lean on for support, God is there. He holds us up (Isaiah 41:10), and He empowers us through the Holy Spirit to stand firm (Ephesians 6:10-13). He also makes us part of His family, the church, so we can help hold each other steady when the winds come. As Christians, we can be encouraged that we are deeply rooted in Christ, and we have our stability in Him. No matter how strong the winds may blow, nothing can move us from our position in Him (John 10:27-30). We will stand, and when the winds have stopped blowing, we will remain in our position in Christ Jesus (Matthew 7:24-29). Enid Adah Nyinomujuni What has been causing you stress lately? Jesus invites us to bring all these things to Him in prayer. We can lay them at His feet, knowing He is big enough to take care of them all. What helps you when you’re stressed? Who is a trusted Christian you feel comfortable talking to about what you’re going through, such as a pastor, counselor, parent, teacher, or coach? The righteous will never be uprooted. Proverbs 10:30a (NIV) Read Verses: Ephesians 3:14-Ephesians 3:21; Proverbs 10:30; Psalm 1; Jeremiah17:7-Jeremiah17:8

The New Testament talks about power in the gospel. We might be tempted to think the gospel just has to do with getting saved”I believe the story about Jesus, and then when I die I get to go to heaven.” This view almost makes the gospel seem irrelevant for life. Why do we need the gospel’s power? The gospel (the good news) is about so much more than what happens after we die. It’s about Jesus defeating the brokenness that has invaded His good creation, restoring His people to new life, and defeating death forever as He reigns as King. It means the hurt we see in the world, the sins that overtake us, and Satan’s evil work will all be crushed beneath the scarred feet of Jesus Christ. The gospel is powerful! In Paul’s letter to the Christians in Ephesus, he talks about this gospel power. One reason God gives us power in the gospel is because we live in enemy-occupied territory. The Christian has three enemies: 1) our own sinful desires; 2) the sin that has invaded the world, including lies, false philosophies, and sin-driven peer pressure; and 3) Satan, the prince of the power of the air, our great accuser who prowls around seeking someone to devour (Ephesians 2:2-3; 1 Peter 5:8). How am I, with my little arms, going to fight against my sinful desires, the world’s broken system, and Satan and his forces? There’s no way on my own. But in the gospel, I am not on my own. I have put on the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 13:14) and the full armor of God (Ephesians 6:11). He is always working His good purposes. He brought us victory through His life, death, and resurrection, and He promises to return to fully establish His kingdom, defeating sin, death, and Satan forever. With the same power that raised Christ from the dead at work in me (Ephesians 1:19-20), I can have victory over sin, the brokenness in the world, and the devil. Paul prays for the church in Ephesus, not that they would get power, but that they would know the power they already have (Ephesians 1:15-19)! If you know Jesus, you already have His power. The Holy Spirit dwells in you, empowering you to follow Jesus and to rest in the hope of the victory He has already won. Jeff Weddle Why do you think God would want to give us power? Where do you see brokenness at work in the world? In yourself? How can Jesus bring hope and healing to these places? I pray that you may know his incomparably great power for us who believe. Ephesians 1:18-19 (NIV) Read Verses: Romans 13:11-Romans 13:14; 1 Peter 5:8-1 Peter 5:11; Ephesians 1:7-Ephesians 1:23

The chaos pressed around me, weighing down each step. The air was thick with ittendrils of black vapor darting this way and that. I trudged forward, barely able to see even a foot in front of me, following the voice. Somehow, the soft voice had cut through the ever-present shrieks of pain and evil that filled this world. I didn’t know what the voice was or where it came from. All I knew was how desperately I needed it. My weary heart craved peace, and something deep inside me knew the voice had it. My stomach lurched as I heard a splash with my next step. Water quickly soaked my boot. I took one more step, and the world shifted. Silence. Sweet, sweet silence. That was the first thing I noticed. My shoulders relaxed. I hadn’t even realized how tense they were. Next, as my eyes adjusted to the light, I saw the pond. Gentle sunlight shimmered on the water that started at my feet and continued just to the edge of my vison. A smile tugged at my lips as I felt the sunlight warm my face. How long had I been starving for it? Then, I saw Him. My heart started to leap with joy, but I quickly quieted it. He was a stranger. Why should I trust Him? He strode over to me, feet sloshing in the shallow water. You look weary, He observed, a kind smile brightening His face. “That voice ” I wondered silently. “Is it Him?” What is this place? I asked sharply. Peace, He replied, REsther Wholeness. Whatever you want to call it. I turned, examining an invisible wall holding back the chaos. Why can’t it get in? Well, some of it can, He said gently, eying a spot on my shoulder. A whisp of chaos clung to me. Now that I noticed it, I heard its screech. May I? He asked, reaching out His hand. I saw He had an odd scar near His wrist. “What is He going to do with it?” I thought. “Who can grasp smoke?” Curious about this stranger, I nodded. He winced as He wrapped His scarred hand around the whisp. I expected His hand to move right through the smoke, but the whisp seemed to solidify. It stopped moving for a moment, then started thrashing wildly, screaming even louder. With a grunt of effort, He ripped it from my shoulder and hurled it back out into the chaos. My mouth gaped open as I crumpled into the shallow water. What what happened? I asked weakly, trying to stop my head from spinning. It felt like a piece of me was missing. He reached down and helped me to my feet, His hands rough but warm. I’m sorry that was so painful. Evil often has a deeper grasp than one might realize. And removing anything so deeply entwined with yourself, even something that’s killing you, can hurt. As He spoke, the pain inside me began to dull. I felt lighter mostly. Something in me still wanted that missing piece. I examined His face more closely. “If He can remove that from me ” I thought. Did you make this place? His kind smile returned. Yes, I suppose you could say that. Questions piled up in my brain, quickly moving from suspicious curiosity to anger. But If you can do thatif you can just chuck chaos away and makemake, well, this. I gestured around me to the pond, my voice rising. With all of its peace or rest or whatever you said it was, then why on earth wouldn’t you just get rid of ALL the chaos? Before I quite knew what I was doing, I found myself making demands of this stranger. My arguments devolved into phrases from childhood. Make it go away! Make it all just go away! Sorrow, long buried under years of toughness and survival instinct, wormed its way to the surface. Choked sobs interrupted my demands, echoing over the pond. Grief upon grief washed over me. Surrounded by all this goodnessthe pond, the sunlight, the quietI realized just how bad the chaos really was, and just how deeply it hurt me. I felt a hand on my back. In my grief, I had apparently sunk back down to the ground, wate...

When God created Adam and Eve, He gave them the gift of a peaceful home. He planted the garden in Eden, and Genesis describes the garden as lush and pleasant, filled with trees and watered by a river. And God saw that this place He had created was good. Adam and Eve could rest in the Garden of Eden, knowing the peace of God’s love surrounded them (Genesis 2:8-15). But when Adam and Eve disobeyed their Creator, their world got messy. Pain and suffering and death entered the scene. God banished Adam and Eve from the garden, but He never stopped loving them. Even after they became His enemies, God cared for their needs by making clothing for them (Genesis 3:21-24). Through the generations, God kept calling His people to return to Him. Today, we live in a messy world. When we listen to the news or watch people tear each other apart on social media, feelings of unrest can quickly take over our hearts. Fear and anxiety can rule our days. We try to take control, but we end up hurting ourselves instead. And peace? That can feel about as far away as possible. This is no Garden of Eden. But no matter what bad things happen, God is here. His promise to His people is that His presence goes with us. He gives us rEsther We don’t have to be in the Garden of Eden to experience the power of God’s love. We don’t have to be in the garden to know His perfect peace, because Jesus, the Prince of Peace, came into our broken world. He said, Come to me and I will give you rest (Matthew 11:28). In Psalm 46:10, God says, Be still, and know that I am God. As Christians, we can be still because the Holy Spirit helps us slow down our thoughts, our worries, and our need to control our situations. We can trust that God is with us always. Redemption is here. Jesus invites us to rest in His love. All we have to do is accept His invitation. Becca Wierwille Our world is messy. What sorts of things in your life bring you feelings of fear or anxiety? How might God be inviting you to rest in His love today? When you are having a hard time being still, who is a trusted Christian in your life who you can be honest with? If you know someone who is struggling, how could you listen with compassion and pray for them? The Lord replied, My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rEsther Exodus 33:14 (NIV) Read Verses: Exod:33:12-Exod:33:17; Matthew 11:25-Matthew 11:30

Parents can promise anything to a child. And that child can believe that promise. Sometimes, parents do not, or cannot, keep their promises, but there is one who always keeps His promises, and that is God our Father. Here are some of His precious and treasured promises: God promised to send the Messiah to save His people and defeat the devil. Throughout the Old Testament, God gave prophesies about the Messiah. At just the right time, He sent His Son to live among usfully God and fully human (Galatians 4:4). Jesus died on the cross and rose from the dead, just as God promised He would. If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, we can rest knowing that our eternal future is secure. Jesus will return bodily to earth, raise us from the dead, and set creation free from all brokenness, sin, and death. In the meantime, God promises to give strength to His people (Isaiah 41:10). In Judges 6:11-16, the angel of the Lord called Gideon a mighty warrioreven though Gideon thought that he was weak. God enabled and strengthened Gideon to lead the Israelites and defeat their oppressors. In the same way, God will strengthen you to do what He calls you to do. The Lord promises to guide His followers. God guided Noah in building the ark (Genesis 6:13-22). God will lead and guide you also. He says in Psalm 32:8, I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you. God promises to give you rEsther Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rEsther The Lord promised to love you. His love for you will never fail. Paul wrote in Romans 8:39 that nothing will separate you from the love of Christ. He will be with us no matter what (Matthew 28:20). God has made many more promises in His Word. He has kept His promises in the past, He is keeping His promises today, and He will still keep His promises in the future. So we can trust and rely on Him, knowing that He cares for us. Golda Dilema Does one of these promises stick out to you? How might God be inviting you to rely on Him today? So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) Read Verses: Numbers 23:19; Deuteronomy 31:8; Isaiah 41:10

We all experience ups and downs, but sometimes, what we are experiencing seems so much harder than what we see others experiencing. Sometimes, we feel like our pain is greater, that our loss is worse. Other times, we might feel like our pain is small compared to others, and we hesitate to acknowledge that we are experiencing feelings of loss. Some will lose their parents when they are young, some will grow old and still have their parents around. Some have a close relationship with their family, some do not. Whatever you are going through, you might feel like you are alone, but there are people out there who genuinely care about you. There are people out there who will listen to you, have compassion on you, and grieve because of all that you have had to live through. There are people who will help you see God and the way He cares about you. When life is dark and heavy, we don’t have to deal with things on our own. We have a God who loves us, and He came to earth so that He could be with each one of us. Because Jesus died and rose again, we can draw near to God and receive His healing. He sees our burdens, large and small, and He wants us to give them to Him. One of the ways God lifts our burdens is through community (Galatians 6:2). As you experience loss and heartache, reach out. Let someone help you through this time. Let someone pray for you when you feel too weak to pray for yourself. Find a trusted adult, such as a counselor, pastor, parent, teacher, or coach, and let them help you push through. Let them help you experience God’s love. Let them help you find hope for your future. Emily Acker We all go through painful experiences, and sometimes, we are tempted to compare our situation with others. Yet God invites us into a different way: receiving His compassion for us and extending this compassion to others. Have you told God about the hurt you are facing? Have you talked to someone who cares about you? If you’re not sure who this might be, you can ask God to help you identify someone in your life who you can be honest with about your struggles. The Lord is near the brokenhearted; he saves those crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 (CSB) Read Verses: Galatians 6:2; Psalm 34:17-Psalm 34:19

When the dark came, because it always does, I found that I had no light. Perhaps I lost it when I crossed the river. Still, I would trust in the name of the Lord and rely on my God. As I made my way through the blackest night, I felt His comfort surround me. I relied on His presence until the night gave way to the first light of day. Coming around the next bend, I found myself facing a crowd of people. They held every sort of weapon, and the malice on their faces made my blood run cold. One by one, they advanced upon me, shouting accusations and wielding their weapons. I wanted to curl up in a ball and cover my ears, but God gave me His strength to endure. They will not prevail! His words rang out, and then I heard the echo of His voice on the day that changed all days. It is finished rumbled over the land with such power and light that it shattered every weapon. The people I had once feared were silenced. Hours later, upon reaching the foot of the mountains, I felt like weeping with relief. Perhaps my journey was nearing the end. Suddenly, the ground began to shake beneath my feet. The vibrations grew so intense that I was knocked to the earth as boulders smashed around me. A scream of terror rose from my throat as I watched the mountains crumble and the hills around me seem to move. But then, unfathomably, everything was instantaneously still. I could see the destruction and hear the rumbling enveloping the landscape around me, but it was as if I were encased in a protective sphere of calm for a few blissful moments. And there was His voice, falling on my ears like a warm summer rain: My unfailing love for you will not be shaken. I knew then, whatever I had to walk through, my God would deliver me. Savannah Coleman The things you have to go through in life will be hard (John 16:33); at times you will feel shaken to the core. Remember that one thing remains: God’s unfailing love for you. If you’ve put your trust in Jesus, you can know that nothing can separate you from His love because Jesus has died and risen again (Romans 8:35-39). What darkness are you walking through today? How might Jesus be inviting you to rely on Him? (John 8:12; Hebrews 13:5-6) Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed, says the Lord, who has compassion on you. Isaiah 54:10 (NIV) Read Verses: Isaiah 51:11-Isaiah 51:16; Isaiah 54:10-Isaiah 54:17; John 19:30; Isaiah 50:10

The vast landscape stretched before me, unending. Mountain peaks jutted harshly against a darkening sky and rivers churned angrily. Taking a deep breath, I paused to tighten the laces of my shoes. I know You have created me and called me by nameI am Yours. The wind snatched my words away, but my heart felt a bit lighter as I carefully made my way down the rocky slope. At the roaring riverside, my stomach clenched in fear. Must I pass through? I pleaded to the One who loves me like no other. In the depths of my soul, His whisper echoed: I will be with you. The water was ice cold, and I could not catch my breathbut miraculously, the currents never went over my head. My mouth twisted into a grim smile when I approached a forest ablaze. Smoke billowed from the tops of trees, and the heat was so intense I stopped my journey forward out of sheer instinct. I can’t do thisI will be burned! I cried aloud. I am making a way. His words swelled louder than the flames raging before me. I will help you, I will sustain you, I will carry you, I will rescue you. Every promise was balm to my aching heart. Emboldened, I picked up a twig charred by the fire. With the tip covered in ash, I wrote on my hand: The Lord’s. He brought me through the flames unharmedI danced with joy and sang: In the Lord alone are deliverance and strength! When my feet grew tired and my dancing slowed, He showed me the way I should continue on my journey. I was so thirsty, my tongue felt like sand. When I felt as though I could not bear it any longer, He had compassion and there before me was a sparkling stream of clear water. I drank until I was satisfied. Savannah Coleman Throughout the Bible, God showed His great love to His people, rescuing them again and again. His promise, I will be with you (Isaiah 43:2), foreshadowed the coming of Jesuswho is Immanuel, God with us (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:22-23). Jesus is the Promised One, the ultimate Rescuer who saved us from sin and death by dying on the cross and raising from the dead. If you’ve put your trust in Jesus, you can know that you are His forever (John 10:27-29). What hard things are you facing today? How might God be inviting you to rely on Him? If you want to dig deeper into Jesus’s promises: Isaiah 44:1-5; 45:24; 46:4-10; 48:17; 49:10-13. when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned For I am the Lord your God Isaiah 43:2b-3a (NIV) Read Verses: Isaiah 43:1-Isaiah 43:19

My breath started to grow short, and I felt panic rising in my chEsther While my parents were taking a nap on a warm Sunday afternoon, I was playing dress-up in my bedroom. The jacket I’d shoved my arms into had fit just fine the year before, but now I had obviously outgrown it. I’d become thoroughly, completely stuck, andto a five-year-oldthis problem seemed insurmountable. “What would I do?” Thankfully, my dad finished his nap just about that time. He opened the door to discover me struggling to free myself from the confining jacket. But he didn’t leave me on my own to find a way out. Daddy stepped into the room and reassured me, then gently tugged the coat from my shoulders. Finally, I could breathe easily. I could not have extricated myself from that scary situation without Daddy’s help. When we put our trust in Jesus, we begin a relationship with God as His children. We get to experience the care and tenderness of the best Daddy. We’re never requiredor expectedto face problems alone, because He remains with us always, guiding us over the hurdles and through the challenges. Once we’ve entered that loving relationship with God the Father, we continue to grow in Christ, but sometimes, we start believing the lie that we should learn to manage our issues on our own. Isn’t that what growing up means? we may wonder. Learning to figure out how to solve my own problems? But God never intends for us to navigate messes, mishaps, or mistakes in our own strength or knowledge. As His children, we have an open invitation to come to Him and call on Him, drawing close with our tears, our fears, and everything in between. And, like any loving Daddy, He is eager to help us when we do. Allison Wilson Lee What problems feel overwhelming in your life at this moment? Do you feel like you can talk to God about these? Why or why not? Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16 (NIV) Read Verses: Matthew 7:9-Matthew 7:11; John 1:12-John 1:13; Hebrews 4:16

READ: EPHESIANS 4:29-32 As the aerobics class finished, I grabbed my bag and stormed to the locker room. "Why, God?" I pleaded. "Why do I have to deal with this?" Near the end of the workout session, the instructor had made a rude remark about a member of a popular boy band. Over the microphone she had been using to call out exercises, the aerobics teacher had referred to this person by a homosexual slur. She laughed and, a few minutes later, wrapped up the session. None of the other class members seemed surprised by the teacher’s comment. But I sensed the Lord nudging me to speak up. I didn’t want this responsibility. It was too complicated. I understood God’s teaching about the kind of marriage that honors Him: gospel-centered marriage between one man and one woman. Our feelings might point us away from God’s best for our lives, but His instructions about sex and marriage remain (Ephesians 5:31-33). So, how should I address this with the aerobics instructor—especially when I believed she might also be a follower of Jesus? A couple days later, I attended a class with the same instructor. At the end of the session, I waited for the room to empty and then approached her with shaking hands and a quavering voice. I asked if she remembered her comments about the singer and then told her I was a Christian. I mentioned I had certain beliefs about marriage and sexuality, but I also believed God tells us to treat others with love—including in our speech. She listened well, seemed embarrassed about her previous nasty remark, and thanked me for bringing it to her attention. In pursuing this difficult conversation with my instructor, I sought to love her by telling her the truth. Because of the grace Jesus has shown us, we can demonstrate His forgiveness and do good to all people, even those we might disagree with. Because, in love, Jesus died and rose again for my aerobics instructor...for the boy band singer...and for me. • Allison Wilson Lee • How do you think God teaches us to treat others who don’t believe what we believe? • Read Galatians 6:10. How should we approach Christians who are speaking in unwholesome ways? How does the forgiveness Jesus gives affect the way we have those conversations? • What are some of the difficulties in balancing speaking the truth while doing so with love? Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. Ephesians 4:15 (NLT)

A Pharisee (a Jewish religious leader) named Simon invited Jesus to supper. When Jesus arrived, Simon didn’t offer Him water to wash His feet or head. Dirty feet in sandals and itchy heads need water to wash off the dust. It was also customary for the host to offer their guest a kiss on the cheek, but Simon did not greet Jesus this way. As they sat for supper, a woman slipped into the dinner. Though she wasn’t invited, she searched for Jesus. Finding Him, she knelt down. Taking her beautiful jar of expensive fragrant oil, she poured it over His feet. As she wiped His feet with her hair, she kissed them. Simon was probably wondering who let this sinful woman in. He knew her reputation, and he definitely did not invite her. But Jesus interrupted his thoughts. Simon, I have something to say to you. Simon answered, Go ahead, Teacher. Jesus told a story about a creditor who had two debtors. One owed him a lot of money, the other less. The creditor forgave both their debts. Then Jesus asked Simon, Who do you suppose loved him more after that? Simon answered: probably the one who owed him the most. That’s right, Jesus replied. While Simon didn’t offer Jesus water for His feet or greet Him with a kiss, this woman washed Jesus’s feet with her tears and kissed them. Though Simon did not provide olive oil to anoint Jesus’s head, she anointed His feet with rare perfume. Jesus explained that her many sins were forgiven, so she showed Him much love. Anna Gregory Simon called this woman a sinner, but Jesus called her forgiven. Have you experienced God’s forgiveness? If you have questions about this, check out our “Know Jesus” page. Out of her love for Jesus, this woman kissed His feet and dried them with her hair. Have you ever felt compelled to express your love to Jesus? What did you do? I tell you, her sinsand they are manyhave been forgiven, so she has shown me much love. Luke 7:47a (NLT) Read Verses: Luke 7:34-Luke 7:50

Do you have a best friend? A best friend is a precious gift from God. And do you know that God wants to be your very best friend? Jesus came so that we could be in close relationship with God. While a human best friend cannot always be with you, God can. He is with you every hour and every moment. And He is happy to be with you. Before Jesus ascended back to heaven, He told His followers, Remember, I am with you always (Matthew 28:20). God feels for you. He knows whatever you are going through. A human friend cannot always help you when you have a problem, but God is there to walk you through it. Whenever you are sad, God will weep with you, as Jesus wept alongside Mary and Martha (John 11:35). And He will make you joyful again (Psalm 30:11). You can talk to God anytime. God spoke to Moses as a friend. You can talk to God about anything, and He will listen to you. God is delighted when you talk to Him as a father delights in his child. God likes listening to your prayers and to whatever you want to tell Him. He will not reject you or push you away. He understands you and is considerate of you. He accepts you for who you really are. God knows about your goals and dreams, and He cares about each one. As you seek Him, He will guide you and provide for all your needs. He will be with you all the way. If you’ve put your trust in Jesus, you can know that God is your very best friend. He loves you dearly. He will never leave you. You can count on Him. Golda Dilema Do you sometimes feel like God is distant from you? Who are trusted Christians who can pray with you when you are feeling this way? Are you aware that you are special to God? You can ask God to reveal this truth to your heart anytime. And the scripture was fulfilled that says, Abraham believed God, and it was credited to him as righteousness, and he was called God’s friend. James 2:23 (CSB) Read Verses: Exod:33:11; Isaiah 41:8-Isaiah 41:10; John 15:15; James 2:23

There are times when I feel weak. Physically weak, because I haven’t slept well. Emotionally weak, because someone has been fighting me. Spiritually weak, because I haven’t felt as close to God as I would like to feel. When I am exhausted, tired, weak I don’t feel up for the projects in front of me. There is a beautiful picture in Psalm 18 of God saving us, giving us strength, and equipping us for all we must face. Verse 33 talks about God giving us the steady feet of a deer walking along a mountainside. Verse 34 talks about God preparing us for war and making sure that our hands are strong enough to handle a boweven a bow of bronze, which no human could possibly bend. We do not have to rely on our own strength; we have a God who rescues us and wants to give us His strength. God is so amazing; He even uses our weaknesses for His good purposes. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, Paul is describing a struggle in his life, and then he shares what God told him: My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness. If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, we can have the same confidence as Paul, because the Spirit of God is living in usthe same Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead (Romans 8:11)! Therefore we can say, When I am weak, then I am strong (2 Corinthians 12:10). Have you ever felt God fill you up with strength when you felt like you couldn’t go on? Have you ever reached out to Him from a hospital bed, a classroom, or a bedroom floor? We don’t have to be strong on our own. God is all-powerful, and He invites us to rely on Him. We don’t ever have to face life without Him. Emily Acker When do you feel weak? How might God be inviting you to rely on Him in these times? I love you, Lord, my strength. Psalm 18:1 (NIV) Read Verses: Psalm 18

All his life, Devon had been surrounded by walls. He had been born on the spaceship, just like countless generations before him. There were stories of a place humans had come from long ago called Earth, where there was open air and water that stretched as far as the eye could see. But that’s all they were. Stories. Tales told to children before they went to sleep. On the ship, air and water were carefully monitored and recycled. One wrong move and they could be gone forever. As the ship hurdled through space, all Devon could see outside was the ever-present blackness sprinkled with the fine glitter of distant stars. If the ship ever had a target destination, it had long since been lost. Now all that stretched before them was cold, empty darkness. Then, one day, a message popped up on an old console. “Earth-like planet detected. Adjust coordinates immediately.” Most people on the ship scoffed at it. Earth is a myth, they said. There’s never been anything but the spaceship. But a few of the passengers read the words on the screen and believed. Devon was one of them. He and the others banded together and got a small spacecraft sitting in the hull ready for voyage. He sobbed as he hugged his family goodbye, then he and the others boarded the tiny ship and launched into space, away from the only home they had ever known. They followed the coordinates. For weeks they saw nothing but darkness. Then a star in the distance began to grow brighter. Finally, a tinge of blue-green light came into viewa planet orbiting the star. When they landed on the planet, they stumbled out of the ship into warm, permeating light. Devon’s lungs burned as he sucked in the fresh, fragrant air. He and the others laughed and whooped as they ran along the edge of the great expanse of water. They gave names to the strange creatures they found crawling in the dirt and fluttering in the air. Devon realized this was how humans were meant to livenot confined to a spaceship but roaming free on a big, beautiful planet. As the giant star dipped below the unseen edge of the water, he finally sat down, exhausted. He was home. Courtney Lasater In John 10:10, Jesus says He came to earth so that we could have life in abundance. He became human, died on a cross, and rose again to give us lifethe life we were meant to have before sin broke us and our world. What do you think abundant life through Jesus looks like? Have you experienced your life being changed by Him in any way? Have you had to leave behind anything from your former life in order to follow Jesus and embrace the new life He has given you? I [Jesus] have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance. John 10:10b (CSB) Read Verses: Matthew 7:13-Matthew 7:14; Matthew 19:28-Matthew 19:29; John 1:1-John 1:5; John 5:24; John 10:10

I remember before putting my trust in Christ, my speech was just unedifying. Insults and curses always rumbled out of my mouth. But after discovering these Scripture passages and through the help of the Holy Spirit, I began to pay attention to each time harmful words wanted to go out of my mouth. Sometimes, our words hurt people. But Jesus can bring healing. In James 3:8-12, we are admonished to desert every ill word we speak. James says fresh water and salty water can’t come out from the same springwe can’t be a blessing and a curse at the same time. How sad it is that we use the same mouth to praise God and insult people. But if we put our trust in Jesus, He forgives us and cleanses us from every sin. And as we trust in Christ and lean on the Holy Spirit, He can help us tame our tongue to keep it from unleashing unpleasant words. The truth is our words can kill, but they can also heal. Isn’t it amazing that our words can help and heal others? Scripture also encourages us to always say things that will be helpful to others, words that will edify them and bring out the good in them. Beloved, through Christ our words can be seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6), which means they can add taste and value to the people who listen to us. Our speech should not be bitter like saltwater, but rather flavored with grace like a good meal. When we speak words, we don’t know how far they will go and who might be listening. So let us speak Christ with every word we say. Shadrach Goni Have you ever been hurt by someone’s words? If you’re still hurting, you can bring your pain to Jesus and ask for His healing. Has anyone ever said something to you that brought healing and joy to your heart? If you struggle with using hurtful words, you can take some time with Jesus, talking about it with Him and resting in His forgiveness. Through the work of the Holy Spirit in you, He can help you love others with your words. Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:6 (NLT) Read Verses: Colossians 3:8-Colossians 3:17; James 3:8-James 3:12; Colossians 4:6

When we’re in a hard place, it feels like the darkness will last forever, but it won’t. The Bible tells us there is a time for everything in life. A time for joy and, unfortunately, a time for pain (Ecclesiastes 3:1-8). Because we live in a broken world, we all experience hurt and loss. But the pain won’t last forever. One day we will begin to see a light at the end of the tunnel. Yet, it can be hard to hold on to hope when you’re in a dark place. You might be in physical pain or dealing with emotional hurt. Maybe you have a lot of uncertainty or anxiety about life. However you’re struggling, God invites you to come to Him. God is goodso good that He came to be with us in the pain, in the brokenness, in the struggle. Jesus is God in flesh. He lived among us, a man of suffering, and familiar with pain he took up our pain and bore our suffering (Isaiah 53:3-4). On the cross, Jesus took all the sin of the world on Himself so that He could heal our brokenness, and so that everyone who puts their trust in Him could be brought near to God. Because Jesus rose from the dead and ascended to heaven, we have the sure hope that He will return and bring heaven to earth. As we wait for this day, we can remember that God promises He will wipe away our tears (Revelation 21:4). Remember that Jesus is with us, and He also promised that God will send the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, to be in Christians (John 14:16-17, 26). Remember the words of the prophet Isaiah, Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength (Isaiah 40:31). It can feel like the darkness will last forever, but it won’t. One day we will see how God got us through the hard times in our lives. And right now, we can cling to Jesuslike Paul and Silas did. Even when they were stripped, beaten, and chained up in prison, they were praying and singing hymns to God, and other prisoners were listening to them (Acts 16:25). As Christians, we have the same Holy Spirit inside us, strengthening us. We can praise God in the darkness, and we can praise Him when He brings us into the light. Bethany Acker When you feel discouraged, are there verses or stories in the Bible that lift you up? Does one of the verses above resonate with you? Can you think of a time you were going through something hard, but you knew God was with you? What did that feel like? Consider taking a moment to thank God for this. But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. Isaiah 40:31a (NIV) Read Verses: Acts:16:16-Acts:16:26; Romans 8:31-Romans 8:39; Isaiah 40:31

When I clean my house, I only use all-natural cleaners. Now, before you start thinking how earth-conscious I am (although that is a great reason to use natural cleaners), there’s a deeper reason. When I was about four years old, my baby sister got into a cabinet and put a cap of the skull-and-crossbones kind of cleaner into her mouth. Even though I was young, I clearly remember riding in my dad’s car behind the ambulance and praying, God, please don’t let my sissy die! Thankfully, my sister is just fine today. But this experience left an imprint on my soul: a fear of cleaning chemicals. For years, I wondered why I had anxiety when I helped someone clean their house with different products. When my kids were babies, I was super-vigilant and called the poison control number several times, none of which resulted in anything dangerous. Now, it makes sense. We all have habits that we default to, even ones that may not seem rational. Sometimes, we can look back in our past and find the trigger where these behaviors started to form, while others may be buried deep in our souls and take some digging to uncover. Why does our younger sibling’s whining set us on edge? Why do we have a compulsion to make sure our hair is just perfect? Why do we have extreme anxiety when we are running late? Whatever your default is, there may be an underlying reason lurking in your past. This can start to feel overwhelming, but there is so much hope. If you are God’s child, you are imprinted in a different way. You have His imprint on your heart and soul, reminding you that you are His forever (John 10:28-29; Ephesians 1:13; 1 John 3:1). God promises that in Christ, you are a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17). He will complete the work He began in you until the day He comes again (Philippians 1:6). You have the power of the Holy Spirit, who comforts you, teaches you, and reminds you of everything Jesus has said (John 14:26). You can tell your heart that you are not just a product of your past. You are imprinted by the God of the universe who made you in His image (Genesis 1:27). Savannah Coleman How can we extend patience to others when they get stressed by things that don’t make sense to us? Have you ever had a knee-jerk reaction of anxiety, anger, fear, etc.? It feels so frustrating when you don’t know the cause behind your reaction. And sometimes, it’s even more frustrating when you do know the reason for your trigger, but you can’t seem to change your reaction. The scars from our past or the pain we have buried deep within us can leave us feeling helpless. But in Jesus, we have hope that He can heal our brokenness. And He can do that through His Spirit living in us, the truth found in His Word, and the love of His people. He has also equipped counselors and therapists to help people heal from past hurts. If you feel ready, you can take some time with Jesus to explore past hurts, knowing that He is even now transforming you more into His image (Romans 8:28-29). If you’ve noticed patterns of fear or anxiety in your life, and you need someone to talk to, you can set up an appointment for a one-time complimentary phone consultation with a Christian counselor through the Focus on the Family Counseling Service. In the United States, call 1-855-771-HELP (4357) weekdays 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mountain Time) to set up an appointment. In Canada, book your appointment by calling 1-800-661-9800 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. (Pacific Time) and ask to speak with the care associate. And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit. 2 Corinthians 3:18 (NIV) Read Verses: Psalm 139:23-Psalm 139:24; 2 Peter 1:3-2 Peter 1:8; 2 Corinthians 3:18

Easter is a divine mystery, a celebration that leaves us with questions we don’t understand. How could God love us so much He would send Jesus to die? How did His body change when He rose from the dead? Why didn’t He stay on earth a little longer to spend more time with His disciples? We might not be able to answer these questions fully until Jesus returns. Like Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 1:25, God’s foolishness is wiser than human wisdom, and God’s weakness is stronger than human strength. God’s ways are not our ways. God doesn’t fit into our human understanding. But we can ask God to open our eyes to see how He is working around us. I love the story of Jesus’s walk with two of His followers on the road to Emmaus. Jesus’s followers were discussing all that had happened since Jesus was put to death on a cross, and they felt confused and lost. Wasn’t Jesus supposed to bring redemption? How was His death part of the plan? And how did His body disappear from the tomb? Jesus met them where they were. They didn’t recognize Him, but He walked with them, listened, and explained the Scriptures. They invited Him to stay with them, and He joined them at the table. When He broke bread, their eyes were opened to the truth, and they recognized Jesus. Then He disappeared. We often take a bit to catch on, don’t we? We don’t always understand how God is working. We don’t always recognize the Holy Spirit’s presence. But God is here. He is with us. He is doing a great work in our hearts. And we can trust in His works of redemption. Becca Wierwille Why do you think Jesus’s followers didn’t recognize Him on the road to Emmaus? (Luke 24:16) What did they do after they recognized Jesus? (Luke 24:30-35) Has there been a time in your life when you didn’t understand what God was doing in the moment, but looking back you can see how He was present and working? Then their eyes were opened, and they recognized him, but he disappeared from their sight. They said to each other, Weren’t our hearts burning within us while he was talking with us on the road and explaining the Scriptures to us? Luke 24:31-32 (CSB) Read Verses: Luke 24:13-Luke 24:35; Acts:1:1-Acts:1:11; 1 Corinthians 1:18-1 Corinthians 1:31

For Christians, Easter is all about the resurrection of Jesus Christ. But some people have fuzzy or unclear ideas about what that really means. They might see the resurrection as a symbol for new beginnings and second chances. Some churches even teach that the resurrection means the spirit of Jesus lives on in His people. They don’t proclaim the actual, physical, bodily resurrection of Jesus. Does it make a difference? For the early Christians, the fact that Jesus literally rose from the dead was the foundational truththe single most important teaching of Christianity. One by one, the apostles were put to death because they refused to back down from their testimony that they had seen the risen Christ. They endured gruesome deaths, such as being stoned, crucified, beheaded, speared, axed to deathor even worse. But they refused to take back what they said because they knew it was true, and God’s love compelled them to share this good news. Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 15:17-19 that our own hope of eternal life after death is dependent on this very truth: If Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins. In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world. The good news of Easter, however, is that the resurrection of Christ really happened. After being dead for three days, Jesus was raised from the dead by God the Father, and He was seen by hundreds of witnesses (1 Corinthians 15:6). He had a physical body that could be touched (John 20:27). This same resurrection power will raise all believers from the dead someday, with new resurrected bodies of our own. Yes, the bodily resurrection of Jesus matters. For without the bodily resurrection, there is no gospel. Laura N. Sweet Why is Jesus’s resurrection essential to the gospel? (For more information, see our “Know Jesus” page.) Have you ever thought about what it will be like to have a resurrected body when Jesus returns? To be fully human but without physical flaws, health issues, or sins? And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. 1 Corinthians 15:14 (NLT) Read Verses: 1 Corinthians 15:12-1 Corinthians 15:22

When Jesus died, He did what no one else could do. From the prophets of old to the priests in the temple, none of their deaths could have accomplished what Jesus’s death was able to. Although God worked mightily through many people throughout the generations, none of these people could do what was required for humanity to be saved. All four Gospel accounts (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John) describe how Jesus died on the cross and the humiliation He went through. His death and resurrection are the most significant thing that could ever happen to humanity because He brought us total victory from sin and its power. The Gospels of Matthew and Mark tell us that when Jesus breathed His last, the curtain (or veil) of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom (Matthew 27:51; Mark 15:37-38). This curtain weighed hundreds of pounds and separated the Holy of Holies, where God’s presence dwelled, from the rest of the temple. From the days of old, only the High Priest could go into the Holy of Holiesand only once a yearto offer sacrifices to God to atone for the sins of the people. Yet even the priest had to atone for himself first before atoning for others. But now, through Jesus Christ’s perfect sacrifice, we can be forgiven and made right with God. So now in Christ we have access to God. Our sins have been atoned for. The veil that separated us from having direct fellowship with God has been torn by God Himself. Now anyone who puts their trust in Jesus can have access to God on a daily basis and for unlimited time. This was God’s good plan. He created us to be in relationship with Him, and even though we broke that relationship through sin, He has restored us. Now we have been completely brought back to God. Shadrach Goni Why was Jesus the only one who could save us? (See our “Know Jesus” page.) If you are struggling with any sin, remember that Jesus Christ has defeated Satan “long time” and “big time.” Jesus’s sacrifice was enough to forgive all your sinspast, present, and future! Furthermore, when we read from the writing of the apostle Paul in Romans 5 and 6, we find an emphatic explanation to the church in Rome about how the death and resurrection of Christ have given us victory over sin. Who is a trusted Christian in your life who could encourage you to say no to sin and remind you of God’s love even when you mess up? For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! Romans 5:10 (NIV) Read Verses: Romans 5:6-Romans 5:11; Galatians 1:4; Revelation 1:18; Matthew 27:45-Matthew 27:56

After all Jesus went through at the hands of His accusers, they proceeded to have Him crucified on a cross. This was a form of execution developed by the Roman Empire. It was a long, painful, shameful way to die. And according to the traditions of Israel, it was one of the worst penalties given to a criminal, as Deuteronomy 21:23 says, Anyone hung on a tree is under God’s curse. They treated Jesus as the worst of criminals, though He had done nothing wrong. Everything Jesus did on earth has great significance, and His crucifixion has special significance to all those who have accepted Him. Jesus was willing to be put to death on the cross to ensure the redemptive work that would restore humanity back to relationship with God. The sins of humanity have been nailed to the cross those things that held us captive have been defeated (1 Peter 2:24). As Jesus was dying, He cried out, My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34). In that moment, Jesus was bearing the sins of the whole world and suffering God’s holy judgment. This was the only way to save us, because God is just and doesn’t uphold iniquity. Yet He was willing to take our sin on Himselfbecause He loves us. Before He gave up His spirit, JesusGod in fleshsaid, It is finished (John 19:30). This means everything needed for you and me to be redeemed has now been met. We can be free from the dominion of Satan and sin. There’s new hope for all people who identify with Jesus because all that caged and kept us bound has been dealt with and taken to the cross. The apostle Paul said in Galatians 2:20, I have been crucified with Christ, and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. So you see, beloved, the same thing is true of all Christians today because Jesus has dealt with the curse that held and bound us. On the cross, He became a curse for us (Galatians 3:13). He defeated the curse and defeated death itself. Hallelujah! Glory to God! Shadrach Goni Why is it significant that Jesus was put to death on a cross rather than dying another way? Are you ready to identify with Jesus and put your trust in Him to save you? If you still have questions, who is a trusted Christian in your life you could talk to? (You can also find more information on our “Know Jesus” page.) Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us, because it is written, Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree. Galatians 3:13 (CSB) Read Verses: Mark 15:24-Mark 15:34; John 19:13-John 19:30; Galatians 3:13; Matthew 27:35-Matthew 27:48

Have you ever heard of hyssop? Hyssop is a plant with long, hairy leaves that grew in ancient Israel. And it shows up several times in the Bible. First, in Exodus 12:21-22, God tells the Israelites to dip hyssop branches in lamb’s blood and spread it on their doorframes during the first Passover. This happened while the Israelites were enslaved in Egypt, and God sent ten plagues to convince Pharaoh to let the Israelites go. The final plague would kill every firstborn son, but the son would be spared if his house’s doorframe was painted with lamb’s blood. Later, in Exodus 24:6-8, Moses and the Israelites make a covenant with God, promising to obey His commands and follow Him. As a sign of this covenant, Moses took a hyssop branch (see Hebrews 9:19), dipped it in the blood of young bulls, and used the hyssop branch to sprinkle the blood on the Israelites around him. This blood signified that the people belonged to God. Then, we see in Leviticus 14 that priests used hyssop branches to sprinkle people with water or a bird’s blood to make them ceremonially clean (so they could enter God’s holy temple). And finally, we come to John 19:29. After centuries of animal sacrifices that brought God’s people temporary holiness, Jesusthe final and perfect sacrifice was on the cross. Beaten, bloody, and exhausted, He asked for a drink. A Roman soldier took the dried stalk of a hyssop plant, attached a sponge soaked in wine vinegar to the stalk, and lifted it up to Jesus. And as the Roman guard stretched up to lift the hyssop stem toward Jesus’s bloody lips, I have to wonder if he looked like an Israelite father reaching up to paint the top of his doorframe with a bloody hyssop branch, trusting God to be merciful. I wonder if he felt JesusGod in fleshfulfilling centuries of prophecies and purity laws as He took every ounce of brokenness and uncleanness onto Himself. I wonder if he knew that God’s people would never need a hyssop branch again. He probably didn’t. But we do. Taylor Eising Because Jesus took our sins on Himself, died, and rose back to life, we can be free from sin and death. Have you put your trust in Jesus? What questions do you have? (See our “Know Jesus” page.) Have you ever felt sinful or unclean? Jesus can cleanse any sin. You can talk to Him today. Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Psalm 51:7 (NIV) Read Verses: Exod:12:21-Exod:12:22; Exod:24:6-Exod:24:8; Leviticus 14:4-Leviticus 14:6; John 19:28-John 19:30; Psalm 51:7

I sense myself struck dumb with the overwhelming horror, walking without strengthdrawn by the crowddrawn to be with you, my Lord, no matter where this ends I had hoped I had thought But my dirty legs carry me amidst this angry and rollicking crowdtheir shouts and laughter a muddy din to my ears. Tears form but do not flow. My throat is dry and stuckI cannot swallow. My heart, too exhausted to hurt, is held in a tense, quiet ache. It is dying with you, my Lord. All my hope All my love Dying with you. As they prod you on you’re so weak. You fall again and again. I can’t move to helpI’m just part of the current. It seems surreal. A man, a man picks up your cross. He carries it for you. You walk on blood flowing down your legs I walk in the path of your bloody footsteps. Where are you taking us? We followed you. We follow you still. None of us say a word, our eyes fixed on you. We can’t look away. Oh Lord, Oh Lord, Oh Jesus. Let it not be. Yet somewhere inside me I know it must be. This is where it all led from the very beginning somehow. Jeri Howe Even though Jesus had foretold what was going to happen to Him, His followers didn’t understand His prediction. How might it give you comfort to know that Jesus walked that long, painful, sorrowful walk to the cross because of His great love for you? And he said, The Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and he must be killed and on the third day be raised to life. Luke 9:22 (NIV) Read Verses: Luke 23:26-Luke 23:27; John 3:14-John 3:16; Luke 9:18-Luke 9:23; Luke 18:31-Luke 18:34

Out of all the animals mentioned in the Bible (and there are over one hundred), sheep are the stars. They are found in the book of Genesis on through to Revelation. They are led by shepherds who go ahead of the sheep, calling them to follow. Their babies are lambs. In the Old Testament, God instructed the Israelites to sacrifice lambs for the sins of the people. A lamb, with its soft nose and fluffy wool coat, was a picture of purity and holiness. In John 1:29, Jesus is called the Lamb of God by His cousin, John the Baptist. John announced that Jesus is the One who takes away the sin of the world! But Jesus’s connection to sheep doesn’t stop there. Sheep were part of a herd and were under the constant care of a shepherd who ensured they were fed, watered, and kept safe from harm. They could be hunted by wolves, or become wounded, or fall into rushing water where their wool became so waterlogged, they could drown. In John 10:14, Jesus calls Himself the Good Shepherd. He knows each of His sheep by name. That’s you and me. Jesus is both the Lamb of God and the Good Shepherd, all at once. He is both the perfect sacrifice and the perfect caretaker of His flockthe church. Sometimes, we call people sheep when we think they are blindly following a person or an idea we think is bad. But if we, as trusting sheep, follow only the Good Shepherd and accept the sacrifice of the Lamb of God for the forgiveness of our sins, we are the most blessed flock in the world. Jesus will always shepherd His people in all that is best for us. He calls us by name to follow Him, and He seeks us when we’re lost. At Easter we celebrate the abundant life the Good Shepherd gives us. We rejoice in the ultimate sacrifice of the beloved Lamb of God, who died on a rugged wooden cross long ago for His precious sheep and then rose again to lead us into new life. Susan Sundwall What do you like or dislike about being compared to a sheep? Why do you think God says that we are like sheep, and He is the shepherd? Is it easier for you to picture Jesus as the Lamb of God or the Good Shepherd? Why is it important that He is both? I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep. John 10:11 (NIV) Read Verses: Psalm 23:1; John 1:29-John 1:34; John 10:11-John 10:18

The Bible is full of celebrations! Moses, together with the Israelites, celebrated their escape from slavery in Egypt after God brought them through the Red Sea (Exodus 14-15). Later, the Israelites celebrated the victory of David and his warriors. God also gave His people several festivals that are described in the Bibletime set apart to thank God, rest from work, and enjoy His gifts (Leviticus 23). If there is anyone who loves celebrations and happy gatherings, it’s God! God is the author of merriment and celebrations. Jesus often attended gatherings and even made His first miracle turning water into wine at a wedding (John 2:1-11). Later, Jesus fed over 5,000 people to their satisfaction (Matthew 14:13-21). God loves making people happy because He loves us. God gives us good gifts the important things and even the small things (James 1:17). Making us joyful is one of the ways God makes us feel loved by Him. God is not a killjoy. He invites us to do things that will make us happy, and He guides us in what these are. Sometimes, we may think that sin will make us happy, but in the end, sin hurts us and those around us. When we turn away from sin and follow Jesus instead, we find true joy. Jesus said, I have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance (John 10:10). If we’ve put our trust in Jesus, we are forgiven, and as we yield to His Spirit in us we are freed from the power of sin. And we have the greatest joybeing united with the God who loves us! God likes it when we feel the joy of being blessed by Him. He gives us family and friends so we can enjoy living with them and spending time with each other with glad hearts. In addition to our natural families, God has also made us part of His family, the church. Together, we can enjoy and be happy with everything God has given us, thanking God for blessing us. Golda Dilema What are some of your favorite ways to celebrate? Why do you think God instructs His people to celebrate together? Let Israel celebrate its Maker; let the children of Zion rejoice in their King. Psalm 149:2 (CSB) Read Verses: Psalm 149:1-Psalm 149:5; Ecclesiastes 2:24-Ecclesiastes 2:25; Ecclesiastes 8:15