Unlocked: Daily Devotions for Teens

How our heavenly Father views wealth and greatness sometimes looks different from the way earthly parents do. Such was the case for Clare Offreduccio. Born into a noble family in Assisi, Italy, more than eight hundred years ago, Clare knew her parents had one expectation of her: marry well, produce heirs, and retain the family riches. Clare wanted to love others in the same way Jesus loved her, and, in her situation, she felt the best way to do that would be to serve in full-time ministry. She had a special emphasis on rejecting wealth and living simply to best help those she served. This was her way of making Jesus’ kingdom central to her life instead of money. So, instead of entering an arranged marriage, at eighteen years old, Clare enlisted the help of St. Francis and ran away from home to become a Benedictine nun. She went on to found the Community of Poor Ladies, nicknamed barefoot nuns because they kept themselves so poor, they wore no shoes and often slept on the ground. Clare became abbess in a house near the church of San Damiano and served in that role for many years. Later, when Assisi was threatened by the army of Emperor Frederick II, soldiers propped a ladder against the convent wall to climb it. Clare instructed the convent chaplain to hold the bread and wine for communion up to the window. All the while, Clare prayed for God’s protection. God worked in a mighty way, and the soldiers fled in terror. Clare clearly heard God’s call on her life, courageously resisted contrary societal expectations, and instead, followed Jesus. She ended up having a far greater impact than what her family envisioned for her, with thousands of women today still carrying on her ministry in the order she founded. Her life inspires us to center our lives on Jesus’ kingdom instead of on what society wants us to do. Ronica Stromberg Jesus used Clare in a unique way at a unique time in history. Serving in God’s kingdom looks different for every Christian because God calls His people to serve Him in many different ways. What do you think God is calling you to do with your life? Who are trusted Christians in your lifesuch as pastors, parents, youth leaders, or counselorsyou could talk to about how God might be calling you to serve Him and His church? But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33 (NIV) Read Verses: Matthew 6:1-34; Mark 10:29-30

I remember a time when I was the only student who showed up for my church’s youth Bible study, so my youth leader and I got to go really in-depth to the study she had planned. We started reading John 3. In this chapter, Nicodemus secretly comes to Jesus, asking several questions about faith and belief. Jesus answers each question. Suddenly, the chapter shifts to another setting with Jesus and His disciples, not Nicodemus. It doesn’t even say how Nicodemus responds to Jesus! What happened to Nicodemus? I asked. The youth leader shrugged. That’s it. It doesn’t say. I couldn’t believe Nicodemus would have such an important conversation with Jesus and then never be seen again. Since we had some extra time and no one else studying with us, she and I started digging deeper into the Bible. In John 19, we found a clue. Nicodemus was one of two people who carried Jesus from the cross to the tomb before He was resurrected. We figured that if Nicodemus served as Jesus’ pallbearer, he had probably become a follower of Jesus. A lot of times, when we witness or serve in ministry, we don’t get to see the full fruits of our labor. Sometimes, we see no fruit at all. And sometimes it can be downright discouraging. But we have to remember that God has called us to an eternal purpose, and our work may continue beyond our lifetime. Our mission should be to live a life according to the good news of Jesuswhether or not we see results in those around us. Continue planting seeds. Continue sharing Jesus with others. One day, we will see all the ways God worked through us to bring people to Himself. We will live forever with Jesustogether with all those who follow Him. Jessica Lippe Why is it important that God is the One who ultimately brings people to Himself? If you’re struggling with how to share the good news with a friend, who is a trusted Christian you can talk with about itsuch as a pastor, parent, counselor, or teacher? I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. It’s not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What’s important is that God makes the seed grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 (NLT) Read Verses: John 3:1-22; 19:38-42; 1 Corinthians 3:6-9

Rushing out of the castle, I fastened my cloak around my neck and swung my traveling pack over my shoulder. After making sure the horse was ready and bridled, I swung myself into the saddle and kicked forward. “There is no way I’m staying here,” I thought to myself, “not after what the King assigned me to do.” Once I was in a trot, I heard my brother shouting for me to stop. Joan, wait! You can’t disobey the King! I slowed the horse and waited for my brother to catch up. You don’t understand, Nicholas! The Kingdom of Keane does not deserve the King’s mercy, or mine for that matter. Look at all they are doing: raiding, killing, and burning crops. No, they don’t deserve mercy. Nicholas looked at me with sadness in his eyes and laid his hand on the horse’s bridle. Neither do we. The King did not have to grant us mercy like he did. We should have been hanged on the gallows. Wincing at his statement, our previous life of thievery flashed before my eyes like a dagger: sleeping in abandoned huts and stealing what food we could find. My brother was right, but the evilness of Keane’s Kingdom was worse than anything we had ever done, wasn’t it? Shaking the doubt out of my mind, I flinched the bridle away from Nicholas’s grasp and set out at a gallop. Joan, you can’t run away from the King’s mission! Nicholas called out. You must warn the Kingdom of the invading army! His pleads made me pause, but I couldn’t bring myself to turn back. No, I was running away, and nothing would stop me. Keane’s Kingdom didn’t deserve warning or mercy, and they surely wouldn’t receive it from me. Glancing back, I saw my brother standing in the courtyard. The words of the King raced in my mind: The one who has received great mercy is willing to extend that mercy to others. That is why I am entrusting you with this mission. Blinking, I shoved the King’s words out of my thoughts and galloped on. Sophia Bricker What would you do if you were Joan? Why? Similar to Jonah in the Bible, Joan doesn’t think the people of Keane deserve forgiveness. Is Nicholas’s argument about the mercy they received from the King a fair one in comparison to the Kingdom of Keane? Why or why not? How does the King’s mercy reflect the mercy and grace we receive from Jesus? But because of his great love for us, God, who is rich in mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead in transgressionsit is by grace you have been saved. Ephesians 2:4-5 (NIV) Read Verses: Jonah 1:1-10; Matthew 18:21-35; Luke 7:47

As a child, I was so introverted that I barely spoke to anyone. The thoughts in my head were my companions, and the only friends I needed were in the books I read. Because of my voracious reading, I had a good vocabulary, but since I seldom interacted with anyone, my word pronunciation was sometimes off. As I got older, I began talking with people more and was embarrassed about mistakes I’d made pronouncing words. I began listening to others, and in spite of my shame, I began asking for help with words that gave me trouble. Eventually, I gained confidence in my ability to communicate. In a similar way, when I was a new Christian, I was often unsure of my interpretation of Bible passages. I was trying to learn on my own, but just as I had to swallow my pride and seek help to learn certain words, I had to fight my embarrassment and ask for guidance in understanding Scripture. As Christians, we are a part of the body of Christthe church, made up of all believers in Jesus. Throughout our faith walk, we need assistance to grow. We can learn much by reading and studying Scripture on our own. We also grow as we worship and study the Bible together with other Christians. And, sometimes, a question we ask may take the help of more knowledgeable Christians to grow us into a more mature faith. We should not be ashamed to ask for helpthe real shame would be in not asking. It takes wisdom to know when to seek help. Diana L. Walters Were you ever embarrassed by things you didn’t understand? Check out James 1:5. God doesn’t find fault in us when we ask Him for wisdom. Should we be afraid to ask a trusted brother or sister in Christ for help? Let a wise person listen and increase learning, and let a discerning person obtain guidance. Proverbs 1:5 (CSB) Read Verses: Proverbs 1:1-7; Acts 8:30-31

Snakes, judgment, and the IsraelitesNumbers 21 in the Old Testament is kind of an odd story. When the Israelites complained against God and His provision of bread from heaven, God, in His justice, sent judgment in the form of venomous snakes. But, in His mercy, He didn’t leave His people to die but made a way so they could live. The Israelites had to confess their sins and look to the bronze snake Moses held up on a pole (verse 9). When they looked, they lived. God’s chosen people had to first recognize their sin and need for salvation, and then they simply had to look at the snake and live. Although the Old Testament can be difficult to read at times, it all points to God’s ultimate plan: salvation from sin and death through His Son, Jesus. The story of Moses holding up the bronze snake for the dying Israelites reminds us of how, without Jesus, we are dead in our sins (Ephesians 2:1). When we turn to Godwho is loving and mercifuland look to His Son for salvation from sin and death, He makes us alive (Ephesians 2:4-5). Jesus is the bread of life (John 6:35). He was lifted up on the cross for our sins. He died for us, then rose from the grave three days laterbeating the power of sin and death. Everyone who believes may have eternal life in him (John 3:15). Have you looked to the Son? Come to Him and live! Savannah Coleman To learn more about what it means to look to Jesus to find eternal life, check out our “Know Jesus” page. If you know other stories in the Old Testament of the Bible, how do these passages point to Jesusfully God, fully human, and the only Savior from sin and death? For my Father’s will is that everyone who looks to the Son and believes in him shall have eternal life, and I will raise them up at the last day. John 6:40 (NIV) Read Verses: Exodus 16:1-5, 31; Numbers 21:4-9; John 6:32-51

Opening the heavy church door, I immediately saw Dan and ran to hug him. Mark’s here, he whispered. Mark and I hugged. Barb’s here, he said. Barb and I hugged. She said, Ruth’s here. I hugged Ruth and took my place in a nearby pew. Soon, I noticed Jean several pews away. Once the benediction was pronounced, I found Dan, Mark, Barb, and Ruth and told them, Jean’s here. All we need is Tracy and Jay. The eight of usfour girls and four boyswere in the same grade growing up in church. Together, we attended Sunday school, Vacation Bible School, and Youth Fellowship. The four of us girls sang in the church choir, three sopranos and an alto. Tracy and I worked on a presidential campaign when we were too young to vote. Barb hosted backyard pool parties. Ruth’s teenage uncles worked at the local amusement park. They let us on the kiddie rides when we were too big. Dan, the clown of the group, kept us all laughing. And true friend, Jean, sat with me in the funeral home after my father died when we were sixteen. After high school graduation, the eight of us pretty much lost contact with each other. Most moved away. None still attend the same church where we grew up. Yet, completely unplanned, years later, six of us showed up there on Easter. And since our friendships and our memories are centered in Christ, we were able to pick up where we left off. Kathy Irey Reread today’s Bible passages. What are some godly friendships in the Bible? What does the Bible say about friendship? Read Galatians 6:1-10. As Christians, we are meant to live in community with other believers in Jesus. Do you have a church family? Do you have Christian friends who will support you in your faith? A friend is always loyal, and a brother is born to help in time of need. Proverbs 17:17 (NLT) Read Verses: 1 Samuel 18:1-3; John 11:32-44; 15:13-17

Have you ever skipped to the end of a book to find out what happens? Normally, we would say you shouldn’t do that because you would spoil the ending! However, in the book of John, if we skip to the ending, we find out why John wrote the book, which helps us understand the entire book better. Based on John 20:30-31, John wrote his Gospel so that people would believe in Jesus. This is so important because belief in Jesus is the means by which a person receives eternal life. As we travel through the book of John, we pick up on this theme time and time again. In John 1:1-14, John discusses how Jesus, who is God, became a human to save humans from the darkness of sin and death. In John 3:16-18, Jesus teaches that whoever looks to Him in faith will never perish but will instead have eternal life. In John 6:47-51, Jesus declares Himself to be the bread of life. Those who believe in Him won’t receive the sustenance of bread that only lasts one day; instead, they will receive eternal life. In John 8, Jesus claims to be God. When the Jews question Jesus concerning His identity, Jesus states, Before Abraham was, I am (verse 58). The Hebrew word for I am was theologically loaded. In the Old Testament, God revealed His personal name to Moses as I AM. By declaring to be I AM, Jesus claims to be God. John sought to show that Jesus is the long-promised, fully-God-and- fully-human Savior from sin and death. Jesus dwelled among us on the earth, died on the cross for our sins, and rose again three days later. Those who believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God by believing may have life in his name (John 20:31). Jonathon Fuller John records several statements Jesus made about His identity. Jesus declared Himself to be the bread of life (6:35); the light of the world (8:12); the gate (10:7); the good shepherd (10:11); the way, the truth, and the life (14:6); and the true vine (15:1). How do these statements show Jesus is the Son of God who offers eternal life to all who believe in Him? To learn more about what it means to get eternal life by believing in Jesus, check out our “Know Jesus” page. But these are written so that you may believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that by believing you may have life in his name. John 20:31 (CSB) Read Verses: John 1:1-14; 20:30-31

If you’ve taken any science course in school, you’ve probably heard of the scientific method. You knowobservation, hypothesis, experiment, analysis, conclusion, and report. In some of your experimentation (or just in your textbooks), you’ve also probably heard of alkali, acids, compounds, elements, refraction, and Boyle’s Law. What do all of these scientific terms have in common? Mr. Robert Boylealso known to many as the first modern chemist, but most importantly, known as a believer in Jesus Christ. In our world today, sometimes you hear that science and faith cannot mix. Robert Boyle (1627-1691), however, completely disagreed with that way of thinking. One of his main goals was to show how science pointed directly to God. Think about ithow can you separate the created from the Creator? Robert Boyle contributed much to the field of science, but many don’t realize how much he did to spread the gospel and further God’s kingdom. He sponsored missionary work and the translation of the Bible in other countries, he wrote on biblical topics, and, even in death, he left resources for Christian philosophy and doctrine to be widely proclaimed through lectures. What can we learn from Robert Boyle? First of all, the Christian life is not compartmentalized. Mr. Boyle did not keep his faith for Sundays and science for his weekday Job No, his faith in Christ permeated who he was, what he studied, and the purpose of his work. Secondly, he used his giftedness and his resources for the glory of God. So, the next time you pull out your science book in class or at home, remember the testimony of Robert Boylean intelligent scientist, but most importantly, a follower of Christ. To God be the glory. Emily Rudolph Are science and faith in Christ at odds? Why or why not? Reread Colossians 1:9-20. Why is our faith in Christ central to every area of our lives? For everything was created by him [Jesus], in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authoritiesall things have been created through him and for him. He is before all things, and by him all things hold together. Colossians 1:16-17 (CSB) Read Verses: Colossians 1:9-20

Have you ever wondered what God wants you to do with your life? As teenagers, it often feels like the pressure is ON to decide the course of our entire adult lives right now. Everyone around us seems to be asking the same questions about our post-graduation plans. Many times, I’ve found myself crying over the stress of it all and asking God, Where do You want me to go?only to have it seem like I’m still waiting with no clear direction in sight. If you can relate to any of this, I want to encourage you today to focus on what Matthew 4 shares about the calling of the first disciples. Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John were fishermen. That’s what they did for a living. When Jesus told them, Follow Me, it meant leaving absolutely EVERYTHING they had behind and trusting in Jesus to provide for them. They didn’t know where Jesus was going to lead them; they just chose to follow. They didn’t know how they were going to be provided for or what people were going to think of them; they just chose to follow. The unknown is scary, stressful, and hard, and we aren’t promised a blueprint of every major decision in our lives. Instead, as Christians, we follow and trust Jesus, the One who never changes, is always with us, and is working all things for His good kingdom purposes (Matthew 28:20; Romans 8:28; Hebrews 13:8). Jaléna Scott What are some things you’re stressed out or scared about right now? Share those concerns with Jesus in the space below. Read Proverbs 3:5-6. Are we called to know everything about our future or to trust the One who does know everything? Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) Read Verses: Matthew 4:18-22

As I read through Deuteronomy, one word continually stands out to me: “remember.” God keeps telling the Israelites to remember He rescued them from slavery. Why does God call His people to remember? To place the focus on what He has done in the past. Remembrance helps us focus on who God is. He is the God who showed Egypt all His wondersconfounding their magicians. He parted the Red Sea, and His people crossed on dry land. He showed His justice by punishing sinand His forgiveness when His people cried out to Him. He extended His astounding compassion when the Israelites complained and went astray time after time. God’s love for us is unfailing, and He showed it by sending His one and only Son to die for us when we deserved nothing; He made a way for us to have fellowship with Him, and to live eternally with Him (John 3:16). When the world around us spins into chaos, as Christians, we rest in God. But the brokenness of our world isn’t permanent. Jesus will return and make all things newfree from sin and death (Revelation 21:1-5). If you are a follower of Christ, fix your eyes on Jesus (Hebrews 12:2). Remember all He has done and continues to do for you. Reflect on the hope you have in Him. In Jesus, we find true rest from the chaos of sin and death (Matthew 11:28). So, when life happens, remember, reflect, rest, and repeat. Savannah Coleman Whether it’s the death of a loved one, the loss of a close friendship, or even a global pandemic, resting in God can seem unattainable. How is this rest possible when our hearts are beating fast, the days ahead seem bleak, or we hear others around us crying out in fear? As Christians, because of the Holy Spirit, we have all the power we need (2 Peter 1:3). Read Philippians 4:13. How can you remember you have God’s strengtheven in the midst of difficult situations? Remember all God has done for you in the past and reflect on His unchanging character. How can these truths help you remember to rest in and keep your eyes on Jesus? Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you. That is why I give you this command today. Deuteronomy 15:15 (NIV) Read Verses: Deuteronomy 15:15; 24:18; Psalm 106

Here’s the thing about Jesus: not only is He God and Savior of the world He is also the author and perfecter of faith (Hebrews 12:2). But what does this mean? First, it means Christ Himself is the Source of our faith. He is the Creator of faith. In fact, the very reason we have faith in Him is because He gave faith to us as a gift, calling us into His loving arms. Second, it means He is perfecting our faith. This means we don’t need to fret about our faith, fearful that Jesus will stop loving us when we mess up. In Christ, our faith is secure because He is its Author and the One who perfects it. Why does this matter? It matters because it means that, since Jesus is the Source of our faith, faith does not come from us. Therefore, we don’t need to look inside ourselves to find faith; we need only look to Him. What a relief! The very Author of our faith is the One perfecting it so we don’t have to! This takes the pressure off and allows us to surrender and entrust our faith to the One who is writing it in the first place. So look to Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of your faith. He is faithful and promises to finish the work He started in you (Philippians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). M. L. E. In what ways have you tried to make your faith look perfect? How can you trust God, the Author of faith, to make your faith perfect? Looking to Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising its shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2 (WEB) Read Verses: Ephesians 2:8-10; Hebrews 12:1-2

What would it be like if you couldn’t read the Bible in your native language? William Tyndale, a priest born in the 1490s in England, lived in a time when this was true for his country. William had a deep knowledge and love of the Scriptures, and he wanted everyone to be able to study the Word for themselves so that they could know the deep truths of the gospel just as well as priests did. William fought tirelessly to make God’s Word available to allthrough providing the Scriptures in the language of the people. His translation of the New Testament into English was completed in 1525. Some church and political leaders took issue with an English translation of the Bible. Unfortunately, some in authority became so afraid of William’s work that steps were put into place to trap, catch, and kill him. Through a series of hurtful events, William Tyndale was betrayed by a friend to the authorities. He was placed in prison and eventually sentenced to burn at the stake. At his execution, he cried out, Lord! Open the King of England’s eyes. William Tyndale’s death was not the end though. Not long after his death, the Bible in English became much more readily available and legally acceptable. And though he died in his efforts, William’s hope was in Jesus, the God who promises to raise His people from the grave. As we seek to share the gospel, we may face opposition or even death, but we are not a people without hope: we have the good news of Jesus. Translation efforts help people hear the good news in their own language (Romans 10). Whatever work God calls us to do, we can share the love God has shared with us, resting in the hope of Jesus’ death and resurrection. Deborah del Villar Why can we have hope in Jesus, even in the face of death and persecution? Read 2 Timothy 3:15-17. Why is Scripture so important? Pray also for me, that whenever I speak, words may be given me so that I will fearlessly make known the mystery of the gospel. Ephesians 6:19 (NIV) Read Verses: Ephesians 6:19-20

Editor’s Note: Today’s devotion discusses depression, suicide, and other mental health struggles. Tears distorted my view of the road as I cried out to God. Depression and embarrassment weighed heavily on me as I remembered how I had lost it in front of camp counselors. Unable to gain control of my emotions, I packed up and made the hour drive home. The camp incident exposed the climax of my battle with despair and hopelessness. Because of my responsibilities as wife, mom, church staff member, and seminary student, I felt I had no time for emotional chaos, but this incident made it clear: I had to make time to deal with my depression. Some believe that Christians are immune to mental health struggles. However, this is just not true. In this broken world, depression, anxiety, and other mental health struggles happen to people of all ages and backgrounds. But here’s the great news: Christ, who died on the cross and rose from the grave, is the Victor over sin, death, and brokenness. In Him, we have hope and peace. Depression and anxiety don’t have the last word, because Christ will one day destroy all suffering (Revelation 21:1-5). In the meantime, Jesus promises to be with His people through anything we face and provides rest from striving to be good enough (Matthew 11:28; 28:20). Jesuswho is Godalso gives peace that cannot be shaken because it is tied to the peace He has given us before God (John 16:33; Romans 5:1). My healing from depression began by telling others about my brokenness: God, my family, and a professional counselor. If you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, or another mental health struggle, reach out today. You are never alone. Debbie Ewald If you’re dealing with any kind of mental health struggle, who are trusted people you can reach out tosuch as counselors, pastors, parents, or teachers? If you or someone you know is struggling with depression or feels hopeless, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You can also talk with someone via web chat at suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ 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. If you need someone to talk to but are not in need of immediate help, 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. The punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. Isaiah 53:5b (NIV) Read Verses: Psalm 42:5; Revelation 21:1-5

Have you ever heard the phrase, Timing is everything? It refers to the importance of saying or doing something when the occasion is right. Asking someone out on a first date? Timing is everything. Hitting a baseball? Timing is everything. Asking for an extension on that homework assignment? Timing is everything. Maybe you have a desire to share the gospel with unsaved friends or family members, but you feel like the timing is never right. But how do we know when the time is right to talk to someone about the gospel? The first step is to pray! In Colossians 4:2-4, Paul gives the believers in Colossae two prayer requests. The first is that God may open a door (verse 3). We often equate open doors with opportunities, and this is exactly what Paul means. He is asking God to open up an opportunity for Him to share the good news about Jesus with unbelievers. The second request is for Paul to be able to communicate the gospel clearly (verse 4). If we feel uncomfortable sharing the gospel with someone, it may be in part because we feel like we wouldn’t be able to explain it very well. Paul felt the same way, so he prayed God would work in Him to share the gospel clearly and effectively. In the same way, if we want to share the gospel with someone, we can pray God would open doors of obvious opportunities for us to share the gospel with clarity and boldness. Jonathon Fuller Write down the name of one person you would like to share the gospel with. Ask God to give you opportunities to share the good news with them and that He would make the gospel clear as you share. What questions do you have about sharing the gospel? Who are trusted Christians in your life you can talk with about these questionssuch as pastors, counselors, parents, or teachers? And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Colossians 4:3 (NIV) Read Verses: Colossians 4:2-4

Christians often say, All things work together for good, referencing Romans 8:28. Unfortunately, they usually say this in a way that verse didn’t mean: I just totaled my car. But once I get the insurance money, I’ll end up with a nicer one! All things work together for good! I lost my job, which was a bummer, but now I’ve got a new job that I just love. All things work together for good! Romans 8:28 says, We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. Verse 29 tells us what the good is that God is working out: that God’s people would be conformed to the image of his Son. The good of Romans 8:28 is our conformity into the image of Jesus Christ. The promise is that, no matter what happens in your life, God is at work. He died and rose again to beat sin and death. He’s making all those who put their trust in Him more like Himself, and, ultimately, when He returns, all His people and all of creation will finally be free of sin and its effects (Romans 8:18-35). Knowing Christ and being a part of His eternal kingdom is the ultimate good. As Christians, we find hope in the expectation that God will use everything that happens to usgood stuff, bad stuff, mundane stuff, all of itto make us more like Jesus and that He will one day make us and creation free from the very presence of sin and death so that we might dwell with Him forever (Revelation 21:1-5). Because of the cross and the resurrection, nothing will stop God from doing this (Philippians 1:6; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24). This indeed makes us more than conquerors (Romans 8:37). Jeff Weddle Why is knowing Jesus and dwelling with Him and His people forever the ultimate good? How do you think God can use the good, bad, and mundane events going on in your life right now to grow you in Christ? 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 (CSB) Read Verses: Romans 8

What kind of love is required for someone to take on the sins of others? What kind of love makes someone die so others can live? When we think of people in our lives we would die for, we tend to think of the people who we love mostand the people who love us the most. We don’t often think of those people who put us down every day and try to make us miserable. But Jesus gave His life for everyone. He didn’t die just for those who loved Him a lot. He didn’t say, I’ll die for everyone except people who have hurt Me. In His grace, He died for the people we might think of as the best and He died for the people we might think of as the worstbecause we are all sinners (Romans 3:23). And He loved us so much, He resurrected from the dead, securing the resurrection of His people when He returns. In other words, salvation is for anyone who puts their trust in Jesus. What kind of love is that? An amazing kind of love! It’s hard to love the people in our lives who have hurt us the most. It’s even more difficult to imagine taking on their sin or giving our lives for them. What Jesus did was incredible, showing His perfect love toward usa love that goes beyond anything that we, as sinners, could ever give. We bask in the love Jesus offers, and we look to Him in amazement as He proves His love for even those people we feel are undeserving (including ourselves). Emily Acker Jesus’ love is amazing! What are some ways you can share His love with others, using both your words and actions? Apart from Jesus, we are all unworthy of God’s love. How does knowing this change the way you view others? No power in the sky above or in the earth belowindeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:39 (NLT) Read Verses: Romans 5:6-11

Do you know the story behind your name? Anticipating the arrival of a baby is an exciting event for families, and choosing a name is part of the fun. Some parents name their children after other family members. Others choose a name that has a special meaning. This was the case in Bible times, including the time of Jesus’ birth. We discover many names for Jesus as we read the Bible, and two are mentioned in Matthew 1: Jesus and Immanuel. These names describe His purpose and His presence. An angel told Joseph (Jesus’ earthly father) to give Mary’s child the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins (Matthew 1:21). We see the name Immanuel first in the Old Testament in Isaiah 7:14. Matthew 1 quotes this verse from Isaiah, revealing that Jesus fulfilled what was spoken hundreds of years before His birth (verses 22-23). However, Matthew adds the meaning of Immanuel: God is with us. The God who saves is with us! In love, even though we were caught in sin and death, Jesus, who is fully God and fully human, came and dwelled among us as a baby (John 1:1-14; Romans 5:8). He grew up, died for our sins on the cross, rose from the grave, and will one day return to dwell forever with those who put their trust in Him (John 3:16; Romans 10:9; Revelation 21:1-5). The whole Bible points to Jesus and His good news. God’s love for us is the story behind the names of Jesus. Debbie Ewald What do we know about Jesus through His names? To learn more about what it means to put your trust in the God who saves, check out our “Know Jesus” page. There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to people by which we must be saved. Acts 4:12 (CSB) Read Verses: Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:21-23

It’s incredible to think about all that happened during Jesus’ life on earth and what it must have been like to interact with Him during that time. I have so many questions! How did it feel for Mary to be visited by an angel and to be told she would be the mother to the Son of God? Did Mary realize what was going on immediately, or did it take a while to set in? What was Mary thinking when she carried the Lord and Savior of the world inside her womb? How did it feel to raise Him? What were Jesus’ friends and relatives thinking when they saw Him perform miracles? When He was put to death on the cross? The story of Jesus is mind-boggling! Jesus, who is God, came to Earth to be born a humanto be one of us (John 1:14). He was born in a humble place, when He could have been born in an extravagant and beautiful home. God came to earth not to live an easy life here but to live a sinless life on our behalf. He came not to be pain free but to take our pain on Himself. He was sent to take our sins onto Himself on the cross and then defeat sin and death by rising from the grave. He came to save the world (John 3:16-17). He came because He loves us (Romans 5:8). And He’s coming back to make all things new (Revelation 21:1-5). Bethany Acker Even if you’ve heard the story of Jesus a thousand times, why is it important to keep examining and studying it? To learn more about Jesus, check out our “Know Jesus” page. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. Luke 2:19 (NIV) Read Verses: Luke 1:26-38; 2:8-20; Philippians 2:5-11

Jesus, how great Your love is! This I know full well. I have but a toe in the waters of your endless love. You forgive time and again, a thousand and one. Therefore, we also forgive And show others Your love for us. But I’m broken, with limited heart. Open it up, Lord, soften and mold it. I can’t fathom what You’ve done for me how You died so I might live. How deeply You love me! In You alone, I find everything I need. You’re great and wonderful! And You are mine? Yes, You are mine! Heather Risher When was the first time you truly felt Christ’s love for you? Has there ever been a time when you’ve struggled to forgive someone? If you’re struggling with what forgiveness should look like in your situation, who is a trusted Christian adult in your life you can talk withsuch as a counselor, pastor, parent, or youth leader? Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. Colossians 3:13 (NIV) Read Verses: Psalm 136:1-9; Ephesians 4:32; Colossians 3:13; 1 John 4:10

As Christians, we disagree on a lot of things. Is it okay to work on Sundays? Is it wrong to eat meat? What kind of schools should we attend? What kind of music can we listen to? How should we engage with political issues? I’ve had many challenging conversations with other Christians on topics like these, and, frustratingly, we never seem to get anywhere. Part of that is because these aren’t right or wrong answers because they aren’t as conclusively addressed in the Bible. When we’re not talking about the basics of the gospelthat Jesus, fully God and fully human, died and rose again as the only Savior from sin and deathwe’re dealing with secondary issues. So, before criticizing others on secondary matters, look at what you’re doing and believing is right. Does your decision reflect Jesus and deepen your understanding of His good news, or does your position distract you? Are you more prone to temptation and falling into sin because of it? Also ask, “How does this choiceand my attitude about Christians who disagree with meshow Jesus to non-Christians who are watching?” Do you want them to see a bunch of people who disagree on everything and judge everyone? No! We are called to extend the love Jesus extended to us, both to our fellow believers and to those who don’t know Jesus (John 13:35; Galatians 6:10; 1 John 4:19). While it is important to discuss secondary issues, we shouldn’t constantly focus on them. Instead, let us focus on the things we have in common as Christians, realizing that sometimes we can be wrong about something and learn from each other as we seek to know Jesus and His Word better. We are adopted into God’s family, and the gospel is what unites us. Abby Ciona What secondary issues have you disagreed with other Christians on? Read Matthew 5:29-30. What does Jesus say about eliminating things that cause us to sin? Read Matthew 7:1-5. What does Jesus say about judging others? So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31 (NIV) Read Verses: Romans 14; 1 Corinthians 10:23-33

Have you ever read a piece of literature, heard a song, or seen a painting and thought,” Wow, that’s original!” Although art can blow us away, it can sometimes leave us feeling insufficient. Creating any type of content can be discouraging, because it’s difficult to think of something new. It feels like everything’s been done before. You might think, “What could I possibly contribute?” T. S. Eliot, a famous author and a Christian, struggled with originality. In his four-part poem, “Four Quartets,” Eliot calls years of his life wasted. Within these wasted years, Eliot actually had written some of his most famous and recognized works. But still, he felt he had little to offer and everything worth saying had already been said by someone else. The good news is, it’s not up to us to be original. It’s up to God to be the original Creator. Our job, as Eliot explains, is to continue trying. Not trying because it will make Jesus love us more. No, instead, we remember that, in Christ, we are secure and we can honor Him by creating beautiful works of art echoing what He has created, enjoying our work, seeking to love others the way He loved us, and not worrying about His love for us when we do make a mistake or create something less than perfect. We are free to create because we are free from worrying about whether Jesus’ love for us is secure. It’s not our job to be completely original, and it’s not where our identity comes from. Our identity is found in Jesus Christin His death and resurrection. Through Him, we can tell stories and create art that reflects our Creator and Savior. Naomi Zylstra What’s something in God’s creation you admire? How can we reflect the gospel as artists and content creators? For this is what the Lord saysthe Creator of the heavens, the God who formed the earth and made it, the one who established it (he did not create it to be a wasteland, but formed it to be inhabited)he says, I am the Lord, and there is no other. Isaiah 45:18 (CSB) Read Verses: Ecclesiastes 1:1-11; 2:24-25; 12:13; 1 John 4:19

What are some of your biggest fears? No matter what you listedno matter how dark or scaryin Christ, you can be sure of one thing: God is with you through it all (Matthew 28:20). Even if the worst comes to be and even in the darkest of places, God will still be with you. He knows what it’s like to suffer as a human, and He promises that (1) not even the worst suffering can separate us from His love and (2) fear and suffering won’t have the last word (Romans 8; Hebrews 4:14-16; Revelation 21:1-5). We all have fears. Some fear speaking in front of a large crowd or being home alone. Some of us worry about failing at our careers. Others worry about health, safety, or putting food on the table. Big or small, these fears are real. But just as real is the presence of Jesus through all of these fears. It’s easy to get wrapped up in fear. When that happens, we can remember we serve a God who dwells with us in our brokenness and who is paving the way for all sin and brokenness to end (John 1:14). Bethany Acker What are some of your biggest fears? What is real about these fears? What promises from Scripture can you remember when you face these fears? Read Romans 8:38-39 and Hebrews 4:14-16. Why is it so important that Jesus knows what it’s like to deal with the brokenness of our world? Can anything you’re afraid of separate you from Him? 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: Matthew 14:22-32

Have you ever said to yourself, Things can’t possibly get any worse? You aren’t alone. Even people in the Bible had those thoughts at one time or another. Sarah thought she would never have a child, even though God had promised He would give her a child so He could bring about a nation that would bless the earth through Sarah and her husband, Abraham (Genesis 17:1-5, 15-16; 18:10-14, 18-19). Moses didn’t think the Israelites would believe him when he told them God had sent him to free them from slavery (Exodus 3). Jesus’ disciples feared for their lives when He was crucified (John 20:19). But, through all those situations, God knew what He was doing. A year later, Sarah had Isaacan ancestor of Jesus, the Savior of the world (Genesis 21:1-3; Matthew 1). Even though Moses was afraid, God promised to be with him and to get the Israelites out of slavery (Exodus 3:12). And He was faithful to that promise: Israel was delivered from slavery and Moses was their God-led leader for many years (Exodus 19:1-6). And, while the disciples were still hiding in fear, Jesus, who had risen from the grave, appeared to them and said, Peace be with you (John 20:19). Through it all, God is working His good kingdom purposesto bring salvation from sin and death to all who put their trust in Him (Romans 8:28-30). Even when we face difficult situations, as Christians, our story isn’t over because we belong to Jesus, who died for our sins, rose from the grave, gave us the Holy Spirit, and is one day returning to dwell with His people forever and make all things new (Revelation 21:1-5). Alexis Wohler How was God working His good kingdom purposes through the people mentioned in today’s devotion? If your faith is in Jesus, what are some of His promises you can rest in (Romans 8)? 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 (CSB) Read Verses: Romans 8:28-30

The Guardian galloped from the Land of Shine into the Land of Shade. Shade was always dark, but where the Guardian went, the light followed. The Guardian chose a path that led to the darkest cave in the deepest corner of Shade. When he arrived, his light revealed three despicable men. The Guardian carried three orbs. He took the orbs and gave one to each man. The first man, out of fear, threw his orb down the deepest cavern. The second man, out of pride, crushed his orb with a stone. The third man, with hope, placed his orb on a stand. When the Guardian left, darkness consumed the cave once more. The first two men retreated to their depths, but the third man slept near the warmth of his orb. When he awoke, the orb brightened his surroundings and painted a trail of illumination. The man followed the trail out of the cave and into the open. The path of light carved through Shade, and the man reveled in the beauty that typically hid in the dark. His journey seemed long and aimless, but it led to where Shade met Shine. The man looked down at his small perimeter of light and then up at the endless light of Shine. Excitement began to flood his soul, so he ran, but steps away from Shine, he stumbled. The orb slipped from his hands and crashed to the ground. The light dissolved and Shade consumed him once more. The darkness chilled his skin. His mind raced toward the loneliness he felt in the cave. He clenched his eyes as hopelessness crept in. Suddenly, a warming sensation touched his forehead. It quickly spread down his face and throughout his body. He felt a blazing light on his eyelids, and before he could react, he was yanked out of Shade and into the Land of Shine. He opened his eyes to see every surrounding detail. There wasn’t a single drop of blinding darkness. He spun in wonder until he met the one who had pulled him into the light: The Guardian. Rafe Emerson Bellers Our world is full of darkness because we are all sinners, and sin twists and breaks everything. Where do you see sin and brokenness in yourself and your world? Read John 1:1-14, Colossians 1:9-23, and Revelation 21:1-5. Why can we put our hope in Jesus as the only One who can push out the darkness of sin and brokenness? (To learn more, check out our “Know Jesus” page.) In him [Jesus] was life, and that life was the light of men. That light shines in the darkness, and yet the darkness did not overcome it. John 1:4-5 (CSB) Read Verses: Luke 8:16-18; John 8:12; Revelation 21:22-27

Some of our most memorable mistakes can come when we try to speak a different language from our own. A mistake like this happened to me when I was in Guatemalabecause I speak very little Spanish. At one point during the trip, we went to a busy market. A man started speaking to me in Spanish. The problem was, I only understood some of the words he was saying. So, I attempted to say in Spanish, I don’t speak Spanish. I knew right away I’d made a mistake because he gave me the strangest look. It turns out I didn’t tell him, I don’t speak Spanish; I told him he didn’t speak Spanish. Language confusion is nothing new. In Genesis 11, we read that all people once spoke the same language. Unfortunately, the people got really prideful and decided to build a tower to make a name for themselves so they could be praised as being better than God (verse 4). To stop their wickednesswhich God knew would only grow worseGod confused the people by making it so they spoke different languages and couldn’t understand each other anymore (verses 6-7). The incident was so memorable that that place was named Babel (sometimes called Babylon)which means confusion (verse 9). Throughout Scripture, the names of Babel and Babylon are used to talk about an actual wicked city and kingdom as well as to symbolize the wickedness and brokenness of humanity as a whole. But here’s the good news: in Christ, Babylon won’t have the last word (Revelation 18). People of all languages who have put their trust in Jesus will live forever with Him, free from the brokenness of sin and death (Revelation 7:9-17; 21:1-5). Melissa Yeagle Babylon both figuratively and literally shows the sin and confusion of our broken world. Read Revelation 18 and 21:1-8. How is Jerusalem, God’s city, different from the city of Babylon? At Pentecost, God showed how He is redeeming language for His kingdom (Acts 2). Why is it so important that God’s people in Christ come from every nation, tribe, people, and language (Revelation 7:9)? After this I looked, and there was a vast multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, which no one could number, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes with palm branches in their hands. Revelation 7:9 (CSB) Read Verses: Genesis 11:1-9

Have you ever entered a contest or sweepstakes? Did you read the fine print and notice your chances of winning were 1 in 1,000 or 1 in 500,000 or another minute chance like that? Maybe you thought to yourself, “Does anyone ever win these contests?” or “I’d like proof. I’d like to see the name of the person who actually wins this.” When we look at Ezra 2 and Nehemiah 7, we may think, “This is kind of boring. Why is this included in the Bible? I can’t even pronounce some of these names.” Both passages contain a list of names of the exiles who returned to Jerusalem after captivity. Their return was prophesiedit was a promise from God. While the Israelites were in exile, living as captives to the Babylonians, God used the prophet Jeremiah to promise His people He would someday free them from their captors. Jeremiah 29:10-11 reads, This is what the Lord says: ââ¬ËWhen seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place. For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ââ¬Ëplans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and future.’ You can view the list of names in Ezra and Nehemiah as proof or evidencea reporting of the individual people who experienced God’s love and power through the fulfillment of His promise. And you can be reassured and reminded that the God we worship and trust is a God who keeps His promiseslike His promise to bring His people back from the exile of sin and death through Jesus. If you know Jesus, your chance of experiencing His love and power in your life is 100%. Kendy Young Which of God’s promises gives you hope and encouragement as you face the future? How have you witnessed God’s power and love in your life? Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments. Deuteronomy 7:9 (NIV) Read Verses: Jeremiah 29:10-11; Ezra 2; Nehemiah 7

As Christians, when we pray, we do so in faith. We can pray about anything, knowing we serve a God who loves us deeply (Hebrews 4:14-16; 1 Peter 5:7). Hebrews 11 speaks about faith. It talks about how faith is not knowing exactly what’s coming but instead is trustingbecause Jesus has promised, through His death and resurrection, that He is working all things for His good kingdom purposes (Romans 8). Hebrews 11 shares several stories of people all throughout the Bible who demonstrated faith in God’s promise, even when they couldn’t see the details of what God was doing. All these people did things based on their faith in God but never saw what they did come to completion. But their stories live on forever because they were all a part of God’s greater story of salvation and redemptiona story that continues as all of God’s people await His return. And the examples of stories of faith in God’s promises aren’t limited to Hebrews 11. The Bible shares all kinds of stories about how God has been fulfilling His promises in a variety of ways from day onehow He is saving people from sin and death and will one day eliminate those two forever. So, when we pray, do we do it thinking we will get instant results and that everything will turn out our way? Or do we pray with faith, trusting in Jesus’ promises and knowing He is in control? Bethany Acker Read Romans 8. What would it look like to pray in light of the promises shared in this chapter? Read Hebrews 11. How did the people mentioned in this chapter show their faith in the above promises? Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. Hebrews 11:1 (NIV) Read Verses: Hebrews 11

Have you ever felt discouraged about what God was doing in your life? If so, the little book of the Bible called Haggai has some encouragement for you. God sent Haggai, a prophet, to Jerusalem because His people living therereturned exiles from the land of Babylonhad abandoned attempts to rebuild God’s temple in order to build their own homes and grow crops. Haggai reminded them of their job in God’s kingdom: to rebuild a temple where God would dwell among them. Encouraged and empowered by God, the people began to build (Haggai 1:12-15). But as they worked, they grew discouraged. They compared this new temple with the glorious original one Solomon had builtone covered in gold and ornate wood. This new temple looked simple, normal, and even boring in comparison. So God sent Haggai with encouragement for the people, reminding the people He was with them (Haggai 2:4-5). Then, God made a promise: The future glory of this Temple will be greater than its past glory (Haggai 2:9). The people hearing these words for the first time must have felt overcome with awe. Their own sin had caused the destruction of the first temple. Yet God, in His grace and forgiveness, had promised to dwell with them and to bring His gloryHis presenceback! God’s promise about that temple pointed to Jesus, who is God. He entered that temple, teaching and forgiving. He also compared the temple to His own body (John 2:18-22). And when He died on the cross and rose again, He made it so that all who put their trust in Him will dwell forever with Himfree from sin and death. In Christ, we are part of a kingdom where God in His glory dwells with us (John 1:14). Emily Saxe Read 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 and 5:23-24. What does Jesus promise here? Read Ephesians 2:8-10. Is salvation for sin and death something we can earn? What are we saved for? How can the truths in the last two questions encourage you when you are feeling discouraged about the work God is doing in you? My Spirit remains among you, just as I promised when you came out of Egypt. So do not be afraid. Haggai 2:5 (NLT) Read Verses: Haggai 1:14-2:9; John 2:18-22

Do you feel like you have to hold your feelings inside? Your sadness, your fears, your anger, your frustration you don’t need to hold it in. Showing emotion and letting others know what you are feeling is a healthy, God-honoring practice. Have you been told not to cry? Do you feel like crying will somehow make you appear weak, pouty, or ungrateful in God’s eyes? Let go of all of that: there is nothing wrong with crying when you lose someone, something, or an opportunity you really wanted. King David, a man after God’s heart, wrote, I flood my bed with weeping (1 Samuel 13:14; Psalm 6:6). Jesus, the almighty God of the universe in human flesh, wept openly in front of others when He lost His friend Lazarus (John 11:35). There is nothing weak, pouty, or ungrateful about that. In the same way, when you are angry, it’s completely acceptable to let others know, as long as you do it in a loving and respectful manner. Feeling angry isn’t sinful; it’s what you do with the anger (Ephesians 4:26). Often, anger is a sign that hurt has been done, so healing is needed. And healing doesn’t happen by holding in your emotions. Instead, use clear, loving communication about the things that have hurt you to build a stronger relationship. Pray for God’s guidance and wisdom as you seek reconciliation. Remember: God sees you when you are upset. He hurts for you and is there for you. Instead of holding in your anger, hurt, fear, and grief, bring them to Him in prayer. He wants you to cry out to Him because He is the only One who can truly heal (Hebrews 4:14-16; 1 Peter 5:7). Jesus also brings healing through His people, the church. When you are in pain, find a trusted Christian to confide in. They can talk you through what you are feeling and help you figure out the best way to move forward. Holding everything inside can be harmful. Bring your pain and your tears to God and others, and remember that, someday, Jesus will wipe away every tear from His people’s eyes (Revelation 21:4). Emily Acker Have you been told that showing emotion is weak? How does Jesus combat this idea? It’s important to engage with our emotions well but not to be ruled by them. What are some healthy ways you can work through your emotions with God and others? Record my misery; list my tears on your scrollare they not in your record? Psalm 56:8 (NIV) Read Verses: Psalm 6; John 11:32-36; Romans 12:15; 1 Peter 5:7

My kindergarten teacher was fantastic, everything I could want as a nervous five-year-old. I can still picture the room and recall the moment I let go of my mom’s hand and watched her walk away. Mrs. Lizama ushered me to a table and introduced me to a few other kids. The rest of the day and most of the year is a blur to me, but I felt safe and secure in her hands. In Paul’s discussion of the Old Testament law in Galatians 3, he asserts, the law was our guardian until Christ came (verse 24). The word translated guardian basically means tutor or teacher. But here’s the thing: the tutor in Paul’s time was nothing like my kindergarten teacher (or so many other terrific elementary teachers). Tutors were unbending taskmasters demanding perfect obedience. Those who failed to live up to the standards of the tutors were disciplined harshly, both verbally and physically. Paul’s tutors were feared. Here, Paul reveals the purpose of the law. It was never, ever meant to save. The law identifies every single flaw, every failing and omission in our lives. It creates hopelessness in us because we know we all fall short of God’s glorious standard (Romans 3:23). Nobody can live up to the standards of the law. The entire Old Testament is a series of failures by every sort of person you can imagineyoung and old, rich and poor, Jew and Gentile, and every profession from every corner of the world. They ALL have fallen short. But what the law cannot do, Christ has done (Romans 8:3). The law leads us to Christ, giving us the opportunity to be made right with God through faith (Galatians 3:24). In Christ, we are no longer under a tutor but are God’s children (Galatians 3:29)! Christ’s perfect sacrifice has released me from the relentless taskmaster of the law. It is faith in Christ, not our good deeds, that saves us. Mike Hurley Read Ephesians 2:8-10. Why is it so important that nothing we can do can save us? Why is it important that Christ fulfilled the entire law? To learn more about what it means to put your faith in Jesus, check out our “Know Jesus” page. But Christ has rescued us from the curse pronounced by the law. When he was hung on the cross, he took upon himself the curse for our wrongdoing. For it is written in the Scriptures, Cursed is everyone who is hung on a tree. Galatians 3:13 (NLT) Read Verses: Galatians 3:19-29

Where is your place in the church? How can you serve even if you aren’t a pastor, elder, or any kind of leader in the church? Maybe it seems like there aren’t ways for you to get involved in your church. But, once you start looking and open yourself up to the opportunities around you, you will find your place. The Holy Spirit equips all Christians with spiritual gifts to benefit the church. So, talk with a trusted Christian in your lifesuch as your pastor, youth leader, or parentabout what spiritual gifts you might have. In the church, there are all kinds of areas you can serve in. Maybe you can help teach in children’s church or serve in the nursery. Maybe you can sing or play an instrument during the service. Or maybe you can give back in a more behind-the- scenes way and help clean or decorate the church. The church is also so much more than the building and specific congregation you are involved in. Galatians 6:10 says, Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Your local church is part of the body of Christwhich is made up of believers from around the world and throughout history. As a part of this family, you can find ways to serve the church and God’s purposes in many ways in your everyday life. You can serve by telling someone at work or school about Jesus. You can serve by baking cookies for a neighbor or visiting with an elderly person in your community. You can mow someone’s lawn for free or volunteer to walk their dog. There are many ways you can serve in your actual church and as a Christian in general, and the Lord will lead you to opportunities to serve His kingdom by loving others and sharing His good news. Bethany Acker Do you struggle with knowing where to serve? Have you asked God to show you where He would have you serve? Who are trusted Christians in your lifesuch as pastors, counselors, parents, youth leaders, or teacherswho can help you find out where to serve and what your spiritual gifts are? My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. John 15:12 (NIV) Read Verses: Matthew 20:25-28

In Ephesians 4, Paul encourages the Christians in Ephesus to make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace (verse 3). We are united because we have one body one Spirit one hope one Lord, one faith, one baptism one God and Father (verses 4-6). Tragically, baptism often divides Christians instead of uniting us, as God desires. While Christians do have different understandings of the timing and methods of baptism, we all agree on the following gospel truths, which unite us: (1) Jesus is the One who saves, (2) we are helpless to be saved without His grace, and (3) baptism identifies us with the people of God through Christ. Regardless of method or timing, baptism points to our need of a Saviorto our helplessness to save ourselves from sin and death. Baptism happens differently in every Christian church you will enter, andso long as the above gospel truths undergird the processnone of these differences make the practice more Christian or less. When Christian churches choose how they will practice baptism, they do so out of an understanding of baptism that includes hundreds of years of thought and practice by really smart Christian people who have gone before us in historypeople who loved Jesus, His Word, and His church and wanted to practice baptism biblically. Interestingly, the “Didache,” one of the earliest Christian writings outside of the Bible that speaks of baptism, acknowledges Christians will practice baptism differently sometimes. For example, while the “Didache” encourages full submersion, it also considers pouring water on someone’s head equally valid. Faith in Christ and repentance of sin is more important than the actual process of baptism, though the ceremony itself is also an important aspect of our faith as it truly does unite all of us in our hopefound in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Andy Smith Read Mark 16:15-16, Romans 6:1-11, Colossians 2:12-14, and 1 Peter 3:18-22. Why is baptism important? What does it show about Jesus and our relationship to Him? To learn more about how your church practices baptism and why, talk with your pastor, youth leader, parents, or another trusted Christian in your life. One Lord, one faith, one baptism. Ephesians 4:5 (NIV) Read Verses: Ephesians 4:1-6

Slammed doors, sighs and huffs, A quick retort, a sudden shout I’m leaving the classroom, Barging past, lashing out. What’s her problem? My classmates cry, Shrugging their shoulders As I dash by. Confusion races, Panic thunders inside, All I want is someone To ask me, Why? I cry out in prayer, An earnest plea, And in the call, God answers me. I see a close friend, Waiting calmly. My anger subsides, His patience heals me. Cindy Lee Read Hebrews 4:14-16. Jesuswho is fully God and fully humancame to earth, living in our broken world and experiencing personally what human suffering feels like. He died on the cross and rose from the grave so that all those who put their trust in Him could be free from sin and death. In light of these truths, in Christ, is there any emotion we can’t bring before God? Do you ever feel like the narrator in the poem? Write down your last experience of anger. What caused it, and how did you react? In the future, what strategies could you use to calm down and work through your anger? Who are trusted people in your lifesuch as counselors, teachers, parents, or pastorswho can help you? Do you know someone who is angry? Taking time to listen and being calm can help someone who is struggling. If you know someone struggling with anger, who are trusted people in your lifesuch as counselors, teachers, parents, or pastorswho can help you figure out the best way to help in your situation? If you struggle with anger or know someone who does and you need someone to talk to about it, 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. A hot-tempered person stirs up conflict, but one slow to anger calms strife. Proverbs 15:18 (CSB) Read Verses: Proverbs 15:18; 29:11; Hebrews 4:14-16; James 1:19

“Don’t eat like a pig! This expression usually means, Don’t eat everything in front of you or Don’t make a messbecause pigs can be pretty messy and indiscriminate eaters. In fact, along with grain, many farmers will feed pigs something called pig slop. Pig slop often contains mixed together leftover produce and dairy from local restaurants or other kitchens. This mash-up of food doesn’t sound very appetizing, does it? Jesus once told a story that involved pig food. It’s called the Parable of the Lost (or Prodigal) Son. In it, a son decides he doesn’t want to live with his dad anymore and asks for his share of his dad’s moneyeven though his dad is still alive. When the son gets his money and moves out, he spends it on foolish things, and, before he knows it, all the money is gone. Pretty soon, his situation gets so desperate he doesn’t even have access to pig food. As he tries to figure out what to do next, he remembers his dad’s servants eat better than pig food, so he goes back home with a plan to ask if he can be considered his father’s servant instead of his son. But here’s the amazing part. His dad, filled with love, is excited to see him. Instead of making his son eat what the servants eat, the dad makes a feast to celebrate his lost son’s return. Jesus told this story to show that God is the same way when sinners come home by repenting from their sins and turning to Jesus for forgiveness. The Lord loves us, even when we’re sinners (Romans 5:8). Therefore, He rejoices when one lost sinner is found (Luke 15:10). Melissa Yeagle How does the father in the parable show us what God is like? To learn more about what it means to repent from sin and turn to Jesus, check out our “Know Jesus” page. I tell you, in the same way, there is joy in the presence of God’s angels over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:10 (CSB) Read Verses: Luke 15:11-24

What difficulty are you going through right now? What are you struggling with? Sometimes problems seem to stack upon problems upon problems in our lives. Whether you are feeling completely buried under the stress and pressures of this life or you just have that one issue that is driving you crazy, call out to Jesus. Don’t be afraid to be honest with Him. God already knows your thoughts, your fears, and your worries (Psalm 139:2). Pour out your heart to your loving Father who sent His Son to die on the cross so that you and He could have a relationship (John 3:16). Do not be ashamed to get down on your knees before God and weep as you pour out your heart to Him. King David wept before God. He soaked his couch with tearsand he was a man after God’s own heart (Psalm 6:6; Acts 13:22). In Christ, God’s love for you cannot be shaken, and we are free to bring our requests before the God who hears us (Romans 8:38-39; Hebrews 4:14-16; 1 John 5:14). No matter what you are going through, Jesus is with you and is working out everything for good, according to His kingdom purposes and promises (Matthew 28:20; Romans 8:18-30). God is near (Acts 17:26-28). No matter what you’re struggling with, know you can be honest with God today. Rachel Nissing What are you afraid to talk with God about? Read Hebrews 4:14-16 and 1 Peter 5:7. Why can we bring anything before God? Why can we be honest with Him? The Lord is near all who call out to him, all who call out to him with integrity. Psalm 145:18 (CSB) Read Verses: Psalm 34:4-8; Psalm 145:17-21

Recent studies say that anybody with only $4,210 to their name (whether it’s in cars, cash, or commodities) is wealthier than 50% of the world. Studies also say that anybody with more than three to five close relationships is above average. By those standards, I should be very grateful for my life. It’s not perfect, but I have everything I need for all my physical, financial, emotional, relational, spiritual, and mental needs. I’m really not suffering in any way, and that’s a great thing, right? But in the past, I’ve felt guilty. I knew others were suffering from terrible illnesses, struggling with difficult relationships, and enduring persecution. Sometimes I’d worry it was a mistake, and one day God would realize I haven’t really done anything to deserve this good life. While I should have been joyful about God’s blessings, I was worried and guilt-ridden. Then I read Acts 17. According to verses 26 and 27, I didn’t just luckily land here in this country, this family, this life God planned exactly where and when I would be born. I don’t need to feel guilty, because it’s what He carefully chose for me so that I might seek Him. But this verse implies something else too: He also put my neighbors and classmates where they are for the same reason. Is it possible He put them near me so they might seek and find Jesus through me? I don’t feel guilty about the good things in my life anymore. Instead, I recognize that, through these blessings, Jesus is giving me opportunities to show others who He is. And He is where real joy comes from. Heather Tekavec In what ways are you wealthy? Where do you see God’s blessings in your life? Satan can use false guilt to hold us down, preventing us from sharing the good news about Jesus to the world. How can the truths of Scripture help you fight against false guilt? What are some ways you can use whatever blessings you have to help others seek Jesus? He did this so that they might seek God, and perhaps they might reach out and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. Acts 17:27 (CSB) Read Verses: Acts 17:26-27

We know Jesus, but not everyone does. Because Jesus has transformed our lives, we know what is right and how to live our lives in a Christ-honoring way. But not everyone does. So how should we interact with people who don’t know Jesus and don’t live in ways that honor Him? In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul tells us not to judge those outside the church. While we are called to lovingly hold our brothers and sisters in Christ accountable and to gently confront each other about sin, those expectations do not apply to people outside of the church. It doesn’t make sense for us to expect non-Christians to act like Christians. And we can’t bring them to Christ by telling them to follow a list of rules. Instead, we are called to present the gospel to them with grace and love. We can gently show them the good news that Jesus has died on the cross and has risen from the dead to beat sin and death. We can show them God cares about them no matter what mistakes they have made. We can show everyone that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life, and we all need Him to live eternally, free from sin (John 3:16; 14:6). We know the truth about God and His love and grace, and we can show others all about who He is through our words and actions. We can spread His light when we focus on His incredible love and grace. Bethany Acker Why is Jesus the only One who can save us from sin? How can being loving and gracious show others who Jesus is? Apart from Jesus, is it possible to not choose sin? What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? 1 Corinthians 5:12 (NIV) Read Verses: Matthew 7:1-5; 1 Corinthians 5:12-13

Do you ever think you’re too far gone for God to care about you? That you’ve done things too horrible to be a part of God’s family? Do you think you’ve ruined your life forever and there’s no way home, no way out? Well, there’s good news. You’re never too far gone for God. Jesus Christfully God and fully humandied on the cross for sin and rose from the grave, beating death. If our faith is in Him, no sin is unforgivable and no person is unfit to be used in God’s kingdom. Think about all the bad people in the Bible that God used for His glory. Before Paul knew Jesus, he was a leader in Christian persecution. He arrested all the Christians he could find. Even after he put his trust in Jesus, people thought he was lying! But God made him into one of the greatest missionaries in history. He traveled through all of Europe and parts of Asia, teaching everywhere about the gospel. Think about Moses. He murdered an Egyptian and then fled into hiding in the desert for years. God came to him, in the form of a burning bush, and then used him as a spokesperson to release His chosen people from slavery. He performed ten deadly plagues through Moses, and to top it off, parted the sea for the Israelites to cross over! Think about David. He was a murderer and an adulterer. Even though he committed these terrible sins, God was willing and ready to forgive him. David prayed for forgiveness, and God forgave himjust like that! If you think you’re too far gone for God to forgive you, think about these peoplethe terrible sins they committed and how God forgave them willingly. And here’s the great news: Jesus will do the same for anyone. Yes, get that! Anyone. God will forgive anyone who asks Him, no matter what they’ve done. You’re never too far gone for God. Samuel Robbins Have you ever thought you’re too far gone for God? Why? Read 1 John 1:92:1. Is there any sin too great for Jesus to forgive? If you want to learn more about what it means to put your trust in Jesus for forgiveness, check out our “Know Jesus” page. If we confess our sins, he is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 (CSB) Read Verses: Acts 2:38-39

Leviticus isn’t the easiest read. We wonder, “Why does this book spend so much time on minute rules about animal sacrifices? Isn’t the whole Bible supposed to be about Jesus?” These are good questions. It turns out these sacrifices paint an important picture of why we need Jesus and what He has done for us. In the beginning, Adam and Eve, the first humans, lived in perfect community with God and each other. But Adam and Eve rejected God by choosing sin bringing death and brokenness into the world. Sin twists everything; it separates us from God, the source of life and definition of goodness. But here’s the good news: even in our sin, God loves us and wants us to be with Him instead of perishing in our sins. From the beginning, God had a master plan to defeat sin. God is good, so He is just, so He cannot let sin go unpunished. That’s where sacrifices came in. Before Jesus came, instead of God simply destroying sin and giving us what we deserve and therefore wiping out humans, the blood of an animal would atone for or cover someone’s sin. Regular purifying sacrifices took place throughout the year, culminating in the annual Day of Atonement, when a priest made special sacrifices for the whole community (Leviticus 16). But animals on the altar can’t compare to Christ on the cross. Jesus was the ultimate sacrifice. Unlike the repeated offerings of the Old Testament, Jesus doesn’t have to re-die when we sin again. Jesus also did something no sacrifice had done before: He rose from the dead three days after being crucified. Jesus was the sacrifice to end all sacrifices. The curtain was torn, the law was fulfilled, and the power of sin and death were broken. Through faith in Christ wrapped in His righteousness (or sinlessness)we may now walk with God, secure and forgiven in Jesus’ sacrifice, empowered by the Holy Spirit, and a part of a family of believers who are awaiting the day when Jesus will raise us to a new life free from the presence of sin. L. M. In Christ, the ultimate sacrifice, can anything separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:31-39)? How is God living in us through the Holy Spirit different from Him living in a tabernacle or temple like He did during the time of animal sacrifices? He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sinsand not only our sins but the sins of all the world. 1 John 2:2 (NLT) Read Verses: Mark 15:33-38; Luke 24:44-47; Hebrews 10:1-18

Who was John Bunyan? Born in 1628, he wrote many successful books and had a great ministry. He also spent many years in prison due to harsh government rules and started writing The Pilgrim’s Progress during one of his prison stays. This allegorical story is one of the most successful Christian books of all time. It’s easy to look at John Bunyan’s impact on the church and assume he had it all together. We tend to put Christian leaders on a pedestal. Our local pastor couldn’t possibly struggle with sin or with mental health issues. Right??? Not so. John Bunyan’s writings reveal his struggles with obsessive-compulsive tendencies, doubt, and depression. John Bunyan’s story reminds us God uses broken people like John Bunyan, you, and me. We all need grace. In Christ, we find that grace. In 2 Corinthians 12:9, God gives encouragement to Paul and any Christian facing struggle: My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness. Christians face struggles with sin and other brokenness, but we are loved and forgiven because of Jesus’ death and resurrectionforever a part of His family and kingdom. Jesus personally knows what suffering and temptation are like, so we can come to Him with anything we face (Hebrews 4:14-16). Sharon Rene Why is it sometimes easier for us to rely on God when we realize our own weaknesses? Why don’t we need to be perfect for God to love us (Romans 5:8)? If you’re struggling with any kind of mental health issue, who are trusted Christians you can reach out to, such as counselors, parents, or pastors? If you need someone to talk to about depression, anxiety, or something else related to mental health, 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. But he said to me, My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is perfected in weakness. Therefore, I will most gladly boast all the more about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may reside in me. 2 Corinthians 12:9 (CSB) Read Verses: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10

The book of Job wrestles with a question we’ve been asking for thousands of years: Why do we suffer? While we may rush to respond with quick answers like suffering makes us stronger or only bad people suffer, these answers fall flat when confronted with a friend in the midst of heart-wrenching, life-sucking, can’t-get-out-of-bed anguish. The kind where all you can do is look to God and cry out, Why?! Job was a righteous man who recognized his need to repent and ask God’s forgiveness, which he did regularly. But God permits Satan to steal Job’s wealth, attack Job’s health, and kill Job’s children. Job’s friends mourn with him silently for a weekuntil Job begins speaking, regretting the day he was born and longing to make a legal case against God for his unjust suffering. But, instead of comforting him, Job’s friends insist he must have done something wrong to deserve this terrible suffering (which was a common thought at the time). They go back and forth for several chapters, with Job defending his innocence and making his case against God while his friends accuse him of some forgotten or overlooked sin in his past. Finally, God speaks. But God doesn’t say, Hey, Job, here’s why I’ve allowed you to suffer. Instead, He reveals His glory in a whirlwind and reminds Job that He is the loving, sovereign Creator of the universe. He shows Job and his friends that He is there and He is bigger than suffering. His reasons for allowing suffering aren’t simple, and they aren’t always for us to understand. God’s answer to suffering is the cross. He suffered on the cross for our sinsthe very thing that twists and destroys, leading to all manner of suffering in our world. The all-knowing, all-powerful, loving God of the universe became human, suffered on the cross to beat sin, rose from the grave to beat death, and is returning to destroy suffering forever (John 1:14; Romans 8:20-24; 1 Peter 3:18; Revelation 21:1-5). Jesus is present, knows personally what suffering feels like, and died and rose again so that those who put their faith in Him might be freed from the grip of sin and all of its effects (Hebrews 4:14-16). So where does that leave us? Well, if you are suffering, remember God loves you and He is big enough to handle your questions and your pain. Jesus died on the cross and rose againdwelling with us in the dust and ashes of this broken world, sharing in the suffering and promising that sin and death will not have the last word. If your friend is suffering, be like Jesussit with that person in their pain. Hurt with them. Love them. And point them to Jesus, who loves them even more than you do, and who is returning to destroy all sin, suffering, and death. Taylor Eising Because the God who holds us through suffering is so big yet also knows our suffering personally, we can bring all our hurts and pains to Him through lament. He can handle it. What laments do you have to bring to Him, either for your own suffering or the suffering of others? Comforting a friend in pain can feel awkward, especially when you don’t know what to say. But, sometimes, being with them silently is the best thing you can do. How did Job’s friends make his pain worse? What could they have done to bring comfort to Job? Jesus feels our pain with us. How does knowing this truth bring you comfort when you are hurting? I had only heard about you before, but now I have seen you with my own eyes. Job 42:5 (NLT) Read Verses: Job 42

I. knew that death would be the end, For so the prophets told. No hope have those down in the grave, No praises can unfold. And that was how it’d always been, The Scriptures were agreed. But then this Jesus changed it all And gave us a new creed! For He came back, He conquered death! So all the dead might rise, And those who put their faith in God Will live though they die! Christiana Cudworth Are you afraid of death? If your faith is in Christ, does death have the last word (2 Corinthians 4:14)? Jesus died on the cross to beat sin and rose from the grave to beat death. To learn more about how Jesus’ death and resurrection changed death forever and how you can put your faith in Him, check out our “Know Jesus” page. I [Jesus] am the Living One; I was dead, and now look, I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hades. Revelation 1:18 (NIV) Read Verses: Isaiah 38:18-19; John 11:25; 1 Corinthians 15:51-58

Have you ever wanted to go skydiving? The thrill! The exhilaration! The absolute terror?! If you’re not quite so daring, you could try tandem skydiving instead. This much safer option means you are connected to a harness, which is attached to a highly experienced tandem instructor. The instructor guides you through each and every step prior to, during, and after the jump. You are secured to the instructor the whole time. From exiting the plane to landing safely on the ground, the instructor is responsible for and in control of all that is happening. Your part is to rest in the instructor’s sure control and enjoy! The tandem’s sure connection means placing all your trust in the instructor’s abilities and knowledge. For all practical purposes, you are placing your life in the instructor’s hands. It would not be good to fight against the movements of the instructor or seek to go in a different direction from where he is leading. No matter what happens in the journey, you can trust the safety of the harness and the instructor. What if we thought about our Christian journey as being on a tandem flight with the Lord? When we come to faith in Jesus, we are attached to Him. We are inseparable and connected together forever. The Holy Spirit is our highly qualified instructor, there from the beginning: our traveling partner who guides us all along our journey till we safely reach our final destination of eternity with Jesus (Ephesians 4:30). As Christians, we rest and abide in Him. Deborah del Villar Read Romans 8. When you’re tempted to forget you belong to Jesus, what are some truths from Scripture you can focus on? I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:20 (NIV) Read Verses: John 14:16-17, 26; 15:4-10

Sharing the gospel is about so much more than our words. It is also about sharing it through our actions, through our love. In James 2:26, it says, Faith is dead without good works. In other words, as Christians, we’re saved to do more than just talk about what we believe; the Holy Spirit empowers us to live out God’s love by showing others we care, meeting their needs, and living our lives with an attitude of grace. With so many choices to make in our everyday lives, we have the opportunity and calling to live in such a way that we reflect the God who loves us (Ephesians 5:2). Why? So that people who don’t know Him yet might see these God-empowered good deeds and glorify God because of them (Matthew 5:16; Ephesians 2:10). Sharing the gospel doesn’t always begin with words; it often begins by caring for someone, showing them the love of the Savior. Sometimes that looks like helping orphans and widows (James 1:27). Sometimes that looks like loving our enemies (Matthew 5:43-48). No matter where we are or who we are interacting with, we have the Holy Spirit, who will show us how to best share the gospel in every situation (Luke 12:12). Bethany Acker Do you struggle to share the gospel? How can you live it out? If you’re struggling to share the gospel with your words or actions, who is a trusted Christian in your life you could talk with about itsuch as a pastor, counselor, parent, or youth leader? Just as the body is dead without breath, so also faith is dead without good works. James 2:26 (NLT) Read Verses: James 2

The Bible commands us to be grateful. But why is that? Can God command us to feel a certain way? Well, at the end of the day, gratitude really isn’t a feeling. It’s an action. It’s glorifying Jesus by acknowledging, to ourselves and to those around us, that every good thing comes from Him who reigns over all the Earth. Gratitude is not Have a positive attitude! or You’d better feel grateful or else you’ll be in trouble! Gratitude shouts from the mountaintops, JESUS IS KING! AND HE IS GOOD! We can see that in today’s passage in Luke. While ten people were healed, only one expressed gratitude to Jesus. He ran around the city shouting praise to God, telling everyone that God is good. He didn’t say, Look how great my life is! Instead, he said, Look how great God is! While the other nine people probably felt grateful, they didn’t act in gratitude. Gratitude acknowledges all the good in our lives comes from God, not our own efforts. As the Holy Spirit helps us practice gratitude, let us always point ourselves and each other to the One who deserves all of our gratitude: Jesus, the resurrected King who is coming back to make all things new so that we may someday live in perfect gratitude to Him (Revelation 21:1-5). Taylor Eising How does expressing gratitude show others who Jesus is? Can you practice gratitude even when you aren’t feeling grateful? What are some things in your life you want to thank God for? Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father, who created all the lights in the heavens. He never changes or casts a shifting shadow. James 1:17 (NLT) Read Verses: Psalm 100; Mark 4:21-23; Luke 17:11-19

When you think of the prophet Jonah, what comes to mind? Getting swallowed by a huge fish? Running from God? A certain movie with talking vegetables? What you might not know is how the story of Jonah points us toward Christ. Although Jonah is known for his reluctance to preach to the people in Nineveh, his story still shows God’s mercy and foreshadows the Messiah (or Savior) to come. First, both Jesus and Jonah sacrificed themselves to save others. Jonah chose to be thrown off a ship in the midst of a storm to save the other sailors because his sin had caused the storm. Jesuswho is fully God, fully human, and without sinchose to sacrifice Himself on the cross to save us sinners (Romans 5:8; Hebrews 4:15). Second, both Jonah and Jesus also found themselves in the depths for three days. For Jonah, this meant being in the belly of a big fish. Jesus spent three days in the tomb after His death on the cross. Then, both returned from the depths after three days. Jonah was vomited by the fish onto shore, and he went on to (reluctantly) share God’s message of repentance with the people, which ultimately led to their salvation from sin and death. Jesus rose from the grave, defeating sin and death forever for all who put their trust in Him. These similarities and connections are no accident, and they are just the beginning of the gospel pointers in the book of Jonah. The whole book intentionally points toward Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. Jesus is better than Jonah, who was a reluctant prophet who did not have much love for the people he preached to. Jesus willingly came and dwelled among us, sacrificing Himself on the cross so that we might be saved from sin and dwell forever with Him. Naomi Zylstra Did anything about today’s piece surprise you? If so, what? While reading the book of Jonah, did you notice any other connections between the story of Jonah and the story of Jesus? To learn more about the good news of Jesus, check out our “Know Jesus” page. For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man [Jesus] will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. Matthew 12:40 (NIV) Read Verses: Jonah 1-4

Have you ever experienced a sudden life change? Finding out your parents are divorcing, a move to a new place, or the loss of a loved one can bring chaos to your mind. A loss or a sudden life change is shocking, and people have different ways of coping with these situations. Some people become angry, some people experience crushing despairany number of emotions or responses are possible. Often, my response to these life-changing situations is to keep too busy. I think, “If my head is full of tasks, then I don’t have to dwell on the sadness or fear eating away at me.” But this doesn’t work. At nighttime, it falls apart: in the silence, the pushed-down thoughts race through my mind. As Christians, we can use these nighttime thoughts as an opportunity to make space to communicate with God: to grieve and share our troubles with Him, working through anger, sadness, or any other emotionsecure in Him and remembering truths from Scripture to combat the lies we may be believing, as well as asking Him to direct us to trusted people to talk with about what we’re feeling, if that is needed. When we bring our emotions to Jesuswho knows human suffering personallyHe provides comfort, reminding us of all we have in Him (2 Corinthians 1:3-5; Hebrews 4:14-16). Cindy Lee Have you experienced or are you currently experiencing a sudden change? Write down these challenges and share your feelings about them with God in prayer. Who are trusted Christians in your life you can reach out to during times of major changesuch as counselors, pastors, parents, or friends? If you need someone to talk to as you process a life-changing event, 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. May your unfailing love be my comfort, according to your promise to your servant. Psalm 119:76 (NIV) Read Verses: 1 Chronicles 16:8-11; Psalm 119:76

I had no idea I was nearsighted until I failed my vision screening test in the sixth grade. Once I got my first pair of glasses, I was blown away by what the world really looked like. Trees that had been green blobs now had individual leaves! I could read billboards along the road before our car actually passed them. My vision, now corrected, helped me see things I didn’t know I was missing. But there’s a different kind of I trouble: the problem of not seeing beyond ourselves. Ever known someone who’s always talking about themselves? They feel the need to dominate every conversation, and they love letting you know about their every success! They aren’t very interested in what you have to say; their favorite words are I, me, and my. Romans 12 reminds us it’s not all about us! As Christians, we all have different spiritual gifts. In God’s church, which is compared to a human body, each person is important. Each part has a special calling from God. The cure for I trouble? Looking around and seeing what others bring to the body of Christas we all seek to worship Jesus, the Head (Ephesians 4:15). Laura N. Sweet What can I problems look like in the church? Why is it important to remember that every Christian has different spiritual gifts? Read Romans 12:6-8, 1 Corinthians 12:8-10, 28-30, and Ephesians 4:11-15. What are some spiritual gifts you see in other Christians you know? What are some of your spiritual gifts? (If you’re not sure, who is a trusted Christian adult you could asksuch as a pastor, youth leader, parent, or counselor?) Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Romans 12:10 (NIV) Read Verses: Romans 12:3-13

Sometimes it’s hard to leave home where everything is familiar and safe. God called Hudson Taylor to do just thatleading him to show God’s heart to dwell among His people and to save them from sin, even at great cost to Himself. In 1853, Hudson traveled to the vast country of China to be a doctor so he would have the opportunity to spread the gospel there. At the time, it was a mission field largely untouched by God’s Word. Hudson was only twenty-one years old, but he was passionate about telling others about Jesus, the One who had saved him. To make sure the gospel was as clear as possible, he even made the controversial decision to wear Chinese dresseven growing a long pigtail, which scandalized his fellow Western missionaries. Over several years of hard, uncomfortable work, Hudson saw people slowly begin to come to Christ. He also recruited many missionaries and eventually formed the China Inland Mission, famously saying, China is not to be won for Christ by quiet, ease-loving men and women. Hudson Taylor’s often difficult, scandalizing, and uncomfortable missions philosophy echoed the way God became a human to bring salvation. Throughout the Bible, we see the story of how God reached down to our level to save us from sin and death. It was uncomfortable for Him, but He loved us enough to suffer immensely so we might receive forgiveness and new life in His Name. Susan Sundwall What is the longest time you’ve spent away from home? Read Matthew 28:16-20 and Hebrews 4:14-16. How does Jesus walk with us through everything we face? How does this promise empower us to share the gospel with all nations (Matthew 28:19)? The Word became flesh and dwelt among us. We observed his glory, the glory as the one and only Son from the Father, full of grace and tRuth John 1:14 (CSB) Read Verses: John 1:1-14

I put away the oars, the dock looming out of the mist. The coordinates they had given me were spot-on. The island city was real after all. Two tall statues, of a man and a woman grasping hands, framed the entrance to the metropolis. The streets were of stone, as were the buildings, and the roofs were covered with strange, advanced technological devices. I encountered no guard, which seemed odd. What kind of city didn’t have a guard? No city I had ever spent any significant time in. A darker-skinned man nodded to me as I came in, and I half-expected him to follow me. But he didn’t. Neither did the lighter-skinned woman who bustled past with a smile. That is what struck me about the city’s people first: I had never seen such a diversity of skin colors among people lingering freely among each othertalking, laughing, smiling. It was staged. It had to be. But if it was for my benefit, it was ludicrously involved. I walked out of the street to see an entire intersection filled with people from every tribe, tongue, and nation. I slunk into a corner, trying desperately to find someone of my own race who wasn’t with someone who wasn’t. I couldn’t fathom what had caused these strange people on this strange island to put aside their deep differences. Their past. Their culture. Their view of the world. Their biases. Their generational, flesh-and-blood-born fears and prejudices. A parade was coming through suddenly, and everyone was cheering. As it swept past, I caught a glimpse of the man in the center. He looked like he was from the Middle East. He was smiling at everyone, and then, in a flash, he caught my eye. Kevin Zeller Today’s devotion is a poetic picture of a real and promised hope of Christians: that, because of Jesus’ resurrection, we will live forever with Him and other believers from all around the world and throughout history. Why is it important that Jesus’ kingdom includes people from every nation, tribe, people, and language (Revelation 7:9)? What impact does the gospel have on the way you view people who are different from you? After this I looked, and there was a vast multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language, which no one could number, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. They were clothed in white robes with palm branches in their hands. Revelation 7:9 (CSB) Read Verses: Revelation 7:9; 21:1-5