Family Devotion: Standing Strong for God (Nehemiah 4)

Family Devotions For February 10-14 Monday: The Majesty of God’s Creation 📖 Scripture: Psalm 104:24 "O LORD, how manifold are thy works! In wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches." 📝 Thoughts to Consider: Have you ever stopped to look at the world around you and just said, “Wow!”? From the tallest mountains to the tiniest creatures in the sea, everything God created shows His wisdom and power. The ocean alone covers most of the earth, and yet God made it all with care and purpose. 🌊 Story: There was a young boy named Noah who loved collecting seashells. One day, he found a shell so unique that he knew it must have come from deep in the ocean. He showed it to his grandfather, who smiled and said, “Isn’t it amazing how God created every single shell, fish, and wave? There’s nothing in the ocean that God didn’t design.” Noah realized that even the little things we often overlook are reminders of how great God is. 💬 Family Challenge: Tonight, talk as a family about something in God’s creation that amazes you. What does it teach you about God? How can remembering His creation help you trust Him more? Tuesday: The Paths of the Seas 📖 Scripture: Psalm 8:8 (KJV) "The fowl of the air, and the fish of the sea, and whatsoever passeth through the paths of the seas." 📝 Thoughts to Consider: Long before people had the tools to study the ocean, the Bible talked about “paths of the seas.” These paths are real! They’re called ocean currents, and they help ships travel faster. A man named Matthew Maury discovered them by believing what the Bible said. God’s Word is always true, even when we don’t fully understand it. 🚢 Story: Matthew Maury, a naval officer, once read Psalm 8:8 and decided to look for these “paths of the seas.” He studied the ocean and found currents like the Gulf Stream. His discovery helped sailors and made travel much easier. Just like Maury trusted God’s Word, we should always trust what the Bible says. 💬 Family Challenge: Is there a promise in the Bible that you sometimes struggle to believe? As a family, talk about a verse that reminds you to trust God, even when you don’t see the full picture. Wednesday: Treasure in the Deep 📖 Scripture: Psalm 33:7 (KJV) "He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses." 📝 Thoughts to Consider: Did you know that the ocean is full of hidden treasure? Not just gold and jewels from shipwrecks, but beautiful coral reefs, rare fish, and incredible underwater creatures. The Bible calls the depths of the ocean “storehouses,” meaning God has placed great treasures there. Some we see, and some are still undiscovered! 🦑 Story: A scientist once found a fish called the coelacanth, which was thought to be extinct for thousands of years. But guess what? It was alive and well, swimming deep in the ocean! People were amazed, but God wasn’t—He already knew it was there. God’s wisdom is greater than ours, and He has treasures in His creation that we may never fully discover. 💬 Family Challenge: God has placed special treasures in each of us—gifts, talents, and abilities. What is one way you can use a talent or ability God has given you to bring Him glory this week? Thursday: Peace in the Storm 📖 Scripture: Mark 4:39 (KJV) "And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm." 📝 Thoughts to Consider: The disciples were afraid when a storm hit their boat. But Jesus wasn’t worried—He was sleeping! When they woke Him, He simply spoke, and the storm stopped. Sometimes life feels like a storm, but Jesus is always in control. He knows our future, and He cares about every fear we have. ⛵ Story: A little girl named Emily was afraid of thunderstorms. Every time lightning flashed, she hid under her blankets. One night, her dad reminded her of the story where Jesus calmed the storm. He said, “Emily, if Jesus can stop a storm with just His words, don’t you think He can take care of you?” That night, Emily prayed and felt safe, knowing Jesus was with her. 💬 Family Challenge: Talk about a time when you felt afraid. How does knowing that Jesus is in control bring you peace? What is one worry you need to give to Him today? Friday: Hope in the Storm  📖 Scripture: Acts 27:25 (KJV) "Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me." 📝 Thoughts to Consider: Paul was in a terrible storm at sea, and everyone on the ship thought they would die. But Paul trusted God. He told the people, “Be of good cheer,” because he knew God had a plan. Even when life feels like a storm, we can have hope, knowing that God is in control. ⚓ Story: A boy named Luke had a hard year—his family moved, he missed his old friends, and things didn’t feel right. One night, his mom reminded him of Paul’s storm. “Even when things seem hopeless, we can trust God to take care of us.” Luke decided to trust God, and soon, he started making new friends and finding joy again. 💬 Family Challenge: Is there something in your life that feels like a storm right now? As a family, pray together and ask God to help you trust Him, just like Paul did.

Family Devotions For February 3-8 Theme This Week - Honoring God With Our Finances Key Verse: Proverbs 3:9 – “Honour the Lord with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase.” Monday, February 3rd: God Owns Everything 📖 Bible Verse: Psalm 24:1 – “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” 🔹 Devotion Thought: Everything we have comes from God—our money, our house, our toys, and even our abilities to work and earn. Because God owns everything, we are just managers of what He gives us. 📖 Kid’s Story: Jake found a $10 bill on the sidewalk. His first thought was to buy candy, but then he remembered that everything belongs to God. He decided to pray and ask what God would want him to do with it. He gave some to church, saved some, and still got a small treat. ❓ Family Discussion: What is something we have that belongs to God? How can we show God we trust Him with our things? What should we do if we find or receive unexpected money? Tuesday, February 4th: Giving to God First 📖 Bible Verse: Malachi 3:10 – “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing.” 🔹 Devotion Thought: God asks us to give back to Him first before spending on anything else. This is called tithing. When we honor God with our first and best, He promises to take care of us. 📖 Kid’s Story: Emmie earned $20 doing chores. She wanted a new doll but remembered her parents teaching her about tithing. She set aside $2 for church before spending the rest. Later, her grandma surprised her with the doll she wanted! ❓ Family Discussion: Why do you think God wants us to give to Him first? What are some ways we can give to God besides money? Have you ever seen God bless someone because they gave to Him? Wednesday, February 5th: Working Hard and Being Wise 📖 Bible Verse: Proverbs 13:11 – “Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase.” 🔹 Devotion Thought: God wants us to work hard and be wise with our money. He doesn’t want us to be lazy or wasteful. When we work hard and manage money well, we honor Him. 📖 Kid’s Story: Tyler spent all his money on candy and toys as soon as he got his allowance. But his friend Noah saved a little each time and was able to buy a soccer ball he had wanted for months. Tyler realized he needed to be wiser with his spending. ❓ Family Discussion: What is a job you do at home that helps you earn money? Why is it important to save money instead of spending it all at once? What is something you could save for if you used your money wisely? Thursday, February 6th: Avoiding Debt and Being Content 📖 Bible Verse: Proverbs 22:7 – “The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” 🔹 Devotion Thought: Debt can trap us and make it hard to serve God freely. Instead of always wanting more, God wants us to be content and thankful for what we have. 📖 Kid’s Story: Sophia wanted a bike but didn’t have enough money. Her friend Ben offered to lend her money, but she would owe him every week. Instead, Sophia decided to wait, save, and buy it when she had enough. It took time, but she was glad she didn’t have to keep paying Ben back. ❓ Family Discussion: Why is it dangerous to borrow too much money? What are some things we can do instead of going into debt? How can we practice being content with what we have? Friday, February 7th: Using Money to Bless Others 📖 Bible Verse: Acts 20:35 – “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” 🔹 Devotion Thought: God blesses us so we can be a blessing to others. We should look for ways to help those in need, whether it’s giving money, food, or even our time. 📖 Kid’s Story: Jon saw a new boy at church who didn’t have a warm coat. He decided to use some of his saved-up money to buy one for him. The boy was so happy, and Jon felt even happier knowing he had helped. ❓ Family Discussion: Have you ever given something to help someone in need? How did it feel? What are some ways our family can bless others? What can we do this week to show generosity? Saturday, February 8th: Trusting God With Our Needs 📖 Bible Verse: Philippians 4:19 – “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” 🔹 Devotion Thought: When we trust God and handle our money His way, He promises to take care of our needs. We don’t have to worry because He is a good provider. 📖 Kid’s Story: Daniel’s family needed money to pay a bill, but instead of panicking, they prayed. That week, someone at church gave them exactly what they needed. Daniel learned that God always provides in amazing ways. ❓ Family Discussion: Can you think of a time God provided for our family? Why do we not have to worry about money when we follow God’s plan? How can we show trust in God instead of worrying? Final Challenge: As a family, talk about ways you can trust God with your money. Maybe you can start a giving jar, help someone in need, or plan a way to save for something important. Remember: God owns everything, and when we honor Him with our money, He will always take care of us! 💰🙏

Family Devotions For January 27-February 1 Theme This Week - Sharing Jesus Monday - February 27 : A Natural Burden to Share Verse: John 1:41 “He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.” Thoughts to Ponder: When Andrew found Jesus, he was so excited that he immediately told his brother Simon. When we receive good news, our first instinct is to share it with others, especially those we love. As Christians, our joy in finding Jesus should give us a natural burden to share Him with others. Action Questions: Who is someone in your family or friends that you want to tell about Jesus? Why do you think Andrew wanted Simon to know about Jesus so quickly? How can we keep our excitement for Jesus strong? Story: Imagine you found the best ice cream in town, and it was free for everyone! Wouldn’t you want your family and friends to enjoy it too? That’s how Andrew felt about Jesus—even more than ice cream. Jesus is the best news, and Andrew couldn’t wait to tell Simon. Tuesday - January 28: Bringing Others to Jesus Verse: John 1:42a “And he brought him to Jesus.” Thoughts to Ponder: Andrew didn’t just tell Simon about Jesus—he brought him to Jesus. Talking about Jesus is good, but helping someone meet Him is even better. Imagine how Simon’s life changed because Andrew cared enough to bring him. Action Questions: How can you help someone learn about Jesus this week? Have you ever invited someone to church or to pray with you? What happened? Why is it important to take action and not just talk about Jesus? Story: One day, a boy invited his friend to church. At first, the friend didn’t want to go, but the boy kept asking kindly. Finally, the friend agreed. That day, he heard about Jesus and decided to follow Him. You never know how much an invitation can change a life! Wednesday - January 29: Jesus Sees Who You Can Be Verse: John 1:42b “Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.” Thoughts to Ponder: Jesus saw Simon not just as he was but as he could be. Simon was known to be a little shaky, but Jesus called him a rock. Jesus sees what we can become when we follow Him, and He helps us grow. Action Questions: What is something you think Jesus wants you to become better at? How does it make you feel knowing Jesus sees the best in you? How can you encourage someone else to be their best? Story: There was a little boy who struggled with reading, and his teacher often told him he wouldn’t amount to much. But one teacher saw potential in him and encouraged him to keep trying. That boy grew up to write books that helped millions of people. Jesus sees potential in us, even when others don’t, and He helps us become the best we can be. Thursday - January 30: Don’t Lose Your Burden Verse: John 1:43 (KJV) “The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee, and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me.” Thoughts to Ponder: When we first meet Jesus, we are excited to share Him with everyone. Over time, that excitement can fade. But Jesus still calls us to follow Him every day and to care about others who don’t know Him yet. Action Questions: Can you think of a time when you were excited to tell someone about something? What made you excited? How can we remind ourselves to care about others knowing Jesus? What can you do this week to follow Jesus more closely? Story: A girl got a brand-new puppy and couldn’t stop talking about it. But after a few months, it wasn’t as exciting anymore. Sometimes we can feel that way about our faith, but Jesus wants us to keep sharing Him, just like He keeps loving us. Friday - January 31: The Ripple Effect Verse: John 1:45 “Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.” Thoughts to Ponder: Philip met Jesus and immediately found Nathanael to share the good news. When we tell others about Jesus, it creates a ripple effect—they can tell others too, and the message keeps spreading. Action Questions: Who is someone you can tell about Jesus who might tell others? Why do you think Nathanael trusted Philip’s words? What can we do to make sharing Jesus a habit? Story: A young boy planted an apple tree. As it grew, it produced apples that fed his family. But the seeds from those apples were planted by others, and soon, there were apple trees all over the community. Sharing Jesus is like planting a seed that can grow and multiply far beyond what we imagine. Saturday - February 1: The Greatest Adventure Verse: John 1:50-51 “Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto thee, I saw thee under the fig tree, believest thou? Thou shalt see greater things than these. And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Hereafter ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man.” Thoughts to Ponder: Following Jesus is the greatest adventure. Nathanael started with a small act of faith, but Jesus promised he would see amazing things. When we follow Jesus, He shows us more of His power and love each day. Action Questions: What do you think is the most exciting part of following Jesus? How can you trust Jesus more, even when you don’t know what’s ahead? What are some “great things” you’ve already seen Jesus do?  Story: A boy went hiking with his dad, nervous about what was ahead. His dad promised, “Keep walking, and you’ll see something amazing.” Sure enough, they reached the top and saw a beautiful view. Jesus leads us on an amazing journey when we trust Him step by step.

Family Devotions For January 20-24 Monday: Recognizing God’s Timing Verse: Esther 4:14b “And who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?” Thoughts to Consider: Esther’s life seemed ordinary until she found herself as queen during a crisis. God placed her there at just the right time to make a difference. We might not always understand why we are where we are, but God has a purpose for every moment. Action Questions: Can you think of a time when you were in the right place to help someone? How can you trust God when you don’t understand His timing? Story: A little boy named Ethan was at the park when he saw another child fall off the swing and cry. Ethan ran over, comforted the child, and called for help. Later, his mom told him, “God placed you there for a reason.” Like Esther, Ethan didn’t know at first why he was there, but he was ready to act. Tuesday: Facing Fear with Faith Verse: Psalm 56:3 “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.” Thoughts to Consider: Esther was afraid to approach the king without an invitation because it could cost her life. But she chose to trust God rather than let fear stop her. Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s doing what’s right even when you’re afraid. Action Questions: What is something you’re afraid of that you can pray about? How can trusting God help you be brave? Story: Maria had to stand up in front of her class and give a presentation. She was so nervous she wanted to skip school. Her dad reminded her to pray and trust God. She did, and though she was still nervous, she gave her presentation and felt proud afterward. Like Esther, Maria learned to face her fear with faith. Wednesday: God’s Plan vs. the Enemy’s Schemes Verse: John 10:10a “The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy.” Thoughts to Consider : Haman’s evil plan was to destroy God’s people, but God was working behind the scenes to protect them. Even when the enemy plots against us, God’s power and plan are greater. We can trust that He is in control. Action Questions: Have you ever seen something good come out of a bad situation? How can you pray for someone who’s facing a tough time? Story: During a big storm, a family’s basement flooded, ruining their belongings. At first, they were upset, but as they cleaned up, neighbors came to help, and they grew closer as a community. God used a hard situation for something good, just as He did in Esther’s story. Thursday: Standing for What’s Right Verse: Ephesians 6:13 “Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.” Thoughts to Consider: Mordecai refused to bow to Haman, even though it put him in danger. Esther risked her life to save her people. God calls us to stand for what is right, even when it’s hard. He gives us the strength to do so. Action Questions: Is there a time when you had to stand up for what’s right? How can you ask God for strength to do what’s right this week? Story: A group of kids in school were teasing a new student. James didn’t join in; instead, he stood up for the student and told the others it was wrong. Even though James felt nervous, he knew he was doing the right thing, just like Esther and Mordecai. Friday: Using Your Influence for Good Verse: Matthew 5:16 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Thoughts to Consider : Esther used her position as queen to save her people. Each of us has influence, whether it’s with our family, friends, or community. God calls us to use that influence to honor Him and help others. Action Questions: What is one way you can help someone today? How can you show others God’s love this week? Story: Lila loved to bake with her grandmother. One day, they decided to make cookies for their elderly neighbor. When they delivered them, the neighbor smiled and said it was the first time she’d smiled in days. Lila learned that even small actions can have a big impact when we let our light shine for God.

Family Devotions For January 13-17 Monday – Flourishing Like a Palm Tree Scripture: Psalm 92:12 , “The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon.” Questions to Ponder: What does it mean to “flourish” like a palm tree? How can we stay strong in our faith like a tree that grows tall and steady? Application Point: God wants us to grow in Him, just like the palm tree grows tall and strong. Even when life is hard, we can trust God to help us stay faithful and fruitful. Story: Jake loved going to the beach and watching the palm trees sway in the wind. One day, a big storm rolled in, and Jake was worried the palm trees would break. But after the storm, they were still standing tall! Jake’s dad explained that palm trees are designed by God to bend in the wind without breaking. “That’s like us,” Dad said. “When life gets tough, we can stay strong because God holds us up.” Tuesday – Planted in God’s House Scripture: Psalm 92:13 , “Those that be planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God.” Questions to Ponder: What does it mean to be “planted” in God’s house? Why is it important to stay close to God and His people? Application Point: When we stay connected to God through church, prayer, and reading His Word, we grow strong and healthy in our faith. Story: Emily’s favorite flower was a sunflower. She planted seeds in her garden and watered them every day. They grew tall and bright because they were rooted in good soil. At church, Emily learned that being planted in God’s house is like those flowers—it helps us grow closer to Him. Wednesday – Bringing Fruit in Every Season Scripture: Psalm 92:14 , “They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing.” Questions to Ponder: What kind of “fruit” does God want us to have in our lives? How can we be a blessing to others no matter our age? Application Point: God wants us to love, share, and show kindness to others. We can “bear fruit” by living in a way that points people to Him. Story: Grandpa loved sharing stories about Jesus with his neighbors. Even though he was old, he always found ways to encourage others. One day, his neighbor said, “Thanks for reminding me that God loves me.” Grandpa smiled and said, “God uses us to share His love no matter how young or old we are!” Thursday – Victory Through Jesus Scripture: John 12:13 , “Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord." Questions to Ponder: Why were palm branches used to honor Jesus? How can we celebrate Jesus as our King today? Application Point: Palm branches remind us of victory and honor. Jesus is our King, and we can trust Him to win every battle in our lives. Story: Liam was nervous about his big spelling bee. Before the event, he prayed and asked Jesus to help him do his best. When Liam won, he raised his hands and said, “Thank You, Jesus!” Just like people waved palm branches to praise Jesus, Liam showed his thankfulness by giving Jesus the glory. Friday – Rest and Reflection Scripture: Psalm 92:1 , “It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High.” Questions to Ponder: Why is it important to take time to rest and worship God? What are some things you can thank God for today? Application Point: Taking time to rest and thank God helps us remember His goodness and grow closer to Him. Story: The Johnson family always had a “thankful night” on Fridays. They’d sit together and talk about the good things God had done that week. One night, Mia said, “I’m thankful for God helping me be brave during my school play.” Her mom smiled and said, “Worshiping God and giving thanks is always a good thing!”

Family Devotions For January 6-10 Monday, January 6 : The God Who Created Us Scripture: Genesis 1:1 – “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” Application: God is the Creator of everything. When we look around, we can see the beauty and order that He made. Every tree, every animal, and even ourselves are created by God’s hand. Today, we’re reminded that we don’t exist by chance, but because of God’s intentional design. Discussion Points: Why do you think it’s important to know that God created everything? How does knowing that God created us affect the way we live our lives? Story: Once upon a time, a little girl named Lily asked her dad, “Who made the world?” Her dad smiled and replied, “God did.” Lily looked out the window at the trees and the sky, and she said, “So God made everything?” Her dad said, “Yes, He made everything, and He made you too!” Lily thought for a moment and said, “That means I’m really special to God, right?” Her dad nodded and said, “Yes, Lily, you’re very special to God. He made you on purpose and loves you very much.” Tuesday, January 7: The Lamb of God Scripture: John 1:29 – “The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.” Application: Jesus is called the Lamb of God because He came to die for us and take away our sins. Just like the lambs in the Old Testament were sacrificed for forgiveness, Jesus, the perfect Lamb, was sacrificed for the forgiveness of everyone. His love for us was so great that He gave His life for our sins. Discussion Points: What does it mean for Jesus to be the “Lamb of God”? How does Jesus’ sacrifice for our sins affect the way we think about Him? Story: A boy named Jack had a pet lamb that he loved very much. One day, the lamb got into some trouble and broke a rule that Jack’s family had set. Jack felt sad because he knew there would be consequences for the lamb’s mistake. But instead of letting the lamb be punished, Jack stepped in and said, “I’ll take the punishment for the lamb.” His parents were surprised but let Jack take the consequence. In the same way, Jesus took the punishment for our sins, even though He didn’t do anything wrong. Wednesday, January 8: God’s Plan for the Lamb Scripture: Genesis 22:8 – “And Abraham said, My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.” Application: When Abraham was going to sacrifice his son Isaac, God provided a lamb as a substitute. This is a picture of Jesus, the Lamb of God, who was given as a substitute for our sins. God had a plan all along to send Jesus, the perfect Lamb, to save us. Discussion Points: How did God provide for Abraham and Isaac on the mountain? Why is it important that God had a plan to send Jesus as our Savior? Story: Sarah was making cookies one afternoon when her little brother asked her, “How did God make the world?” Sarah smiled and said, “God made everything—He made the trees, the animals, and even us. And God had a plan from the very beginning for how He would save us.” Her brother looked puzzled and said, “How did He do that?” Sarah replied, “He sent Jesus, the perfect Lamb, to die for our sins so that we could be forgiven and live with Him forever.” Thursday, January 9: The Lamb of God Was Sent to Save Us Scripture: John 1:36 – “And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God!” Application: John the Baptist called Jesus the Lamb of God again, pointing to Jesus as the one who came to save us. Jesus didn’t come just to be a teacher or a king, but He came to give His life for us. He is the Savior who came to take away our sins and bring us to God. Discussion Points: What does it mean that Jesus is the Savior? Why is it important for us to see Jesus as the Lamb of God? Story: One day, Lily and her family went to the zoo. They saw many different animals, from lions to zebras to giraffes. But the one animal that caught Lily’s attention was a small lamb. Her mom explained, “This lamb reminds us of Jesus. Just like the lamb gives its life, Jesus gave His life for us so we can be forgiven.” Lily thought for a moment and said, “So the lamb helps us remember how much Jesus loves us?” Her mom smiled and nodded, “Yes, exactly!” Friday, January 10: The Lamb Who Takes Away Our Sin Scripture: Revelation 5:12 – “Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.” Application: One day, in heaven, everyone will praise Jesus, the Lamb who was slain for our sins. He is worthy of all honor and glory because of the great sacrifice He made. Jesus gave His life for us, and because of Him, we can have forgiveness and eternal life with God. Discussion Points: How does it make you feel to know that Jesus died for your sins? What are some ways we can honor Jesus because of His sacrifice? Story: Ben loved to play pretend, and one day he imagined that he was a knight. He had a shiny sword and a shield to protect him. As he was playing, his little sister came over and said, “I want to play too!” Ben smiled and said, “Okay, you can be the princess.” Ben pretended to fight a dragon, and at the end of the game, he said, “The knight wins, and the princess is safe.” His sister smiled and said, “You’re my hero, Ben.” In the same way, Jesus is our hero. He gave His life for us, and we will always praise Him for being our Savior.

Family Devotions For December 30-January 3 Monday, December 30: The Gift of Life Scripture: Genesis 2:7 - "And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." Application: Life is a precious gift from God. As we look ahead to a new year, it’s easy to get caught up in expectations or fears. However, we must remember that every day we are given is a gift from God. Let’s choose to appreciate the life God has given us, no matter what the year may bring. Discussion Points: Why is life a precious gift from God? How can we appreciate the life we have today, rather than always looking ahead? What are some things we can do this week to enjoy and cherish each day? Story: Once upon a time, there was a young boy named Jack who always dreamed of the future. He wished for faster growth, better toys, and bigger adventures. One day, his grandmother noticed Jack's impatience and told him a story about a bird who always rushed to fly ahead but missed out on enjoying the beauty of each tree along the way. "Life is not about rushing to the next big thing," his grandmother said. "It’s about enjoying every moment, just like the bird should enjoy every branch." Jack realized that he had been so focused on what was coming next that he had forgotten to enjoy today. Tuesday, December 31st: Loving Life and Seeing Good Days Scripture: Psalm 90:12 - "So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom." Application: Life is a series of days. While we may look ahead with excitement or anxiety, we must remember to make the most of today. Every day we have is a chance to live for God and enjoy the blessings He gives us. Discussion Points: What does it mean to "number our days"? How can we make today count for God? How can we help others make the most of their day? Story: Sarah loved looking ahead to her birthdays, holidays, and family vacations. She always thought the best days were in the future. But one day, her mom pointed out how much Sarah missed when she was not paying attention to the little moments each day, like having a family dinner or playing outside on a sunny afternoon. Sarah decided to start "numbering" her days by making each one special, even the ordinary ones, and found that life became much more joyful. Wednesday, January 1st: The Power of Compassion Scripture: 1 Peter 3:8 - "Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous." Application: To truly love life, we must have a compassionate heart. Compassion is more than just feeling sorry for someone; it’s showing kindness and love through our actions. When we care for others, we find joy and fulfillment. Discussion Points: What does it mean to be compassionate? How can we show compassion to those around us this week? Why do you think having compassion makes us happy? Story: There was a little girl named Lily who noticed a boy at school sitting alone during lunch. Instead of ignoring him, Lily decided to sit with him and share her snacks. The boy smiled and said, "Thank you, you made my day better." Lily felt so happy that she had helped someone, and from that day, she made it her goal to look for people who needed a friend. Thursday, January 2nd: Speaking with Kindness Scripture: Proverbs 25:11 - "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver." Application: The way we speak has the power to either build others up or tear them down. As we look ahead to the new year, let’s make it a goal to speak with kindness, honesty, and love. Our words can bring joy and encouragement to those around us. Discussion Points: How do our words affect others? Can you think of a time when someone’s words made you feel happy or sad? What are some ways we can speak kindly to others today? Story: One winter day, Alex was feeling sad because he had lost his favorite toy. His sister, Emma, noticed how upset he was and said, "I know how much that toy meant to you. Let’s search for it together, and I’ll help you find it." Her kind words made Alex feel better, and they found the toy together. Emma’s words were like a comforting hug that helped him feel better. Friday, January 3rd: Living for Others Scripture: Philippians 2:4 - "Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others." Application: A happy life comes when we stop focusing only on ourselves and begin to care for others. God calls us to live with a heart that looks out for the needs of others, not just our own. By serving others, we find true happiness and purpose. Discussion Points: What does it mean to put others’ needs before our own? How can we serve others at home, school, or church? What is something we can do today to serve someone else? Story: Tommy loved his toys, but one day his friend Jake came over and looked sad. Jake had lost his favorite toy, and Tommy realized that even though he loved his toys, he could make his friend feel better by sharing one. Tommy chose to give Jake his best toy for the day. Jake was so thankful, and Tommy felt good knowing he had helped his friend. The happiness he gave Jake came back to him in even greater joy.

December 23-27

December 16-20