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- Herausgeber: BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC
- Kategorie: Für Kinder und Jugendliche
- Serie: A Little God Time
- Sprache: Englisch
- Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2021
Every child has a purpose. As you spend time with God, you will learn more about who you are and what you were created to do. This book of devotions is written especially for boys like you. It teaches you that God is strong, dependable, and good. It encourages you to walk closely with him, make wise choices, serve others, and be bold about who you are. God created you for a reason. You are important to him, and he wants a special relationship with you. There is no one like you, and he is delighted to call you his son! Let him fill your heart with purpose as you spend a little time with him each day. Special Features: - Devotions written especially for boys aged 6-10 - Durable faux leather cover with special treatments - Beautifully-designed full-color interior - Ribbon marker
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BroadStreet Kids
Savage, Minnesota, USA
BroadStreet Kids is an imprint of BroadStreet Publishing Group, LLC.
Broadstreetpublishing.com
A LITTLE GOD TIME FOR BOYS
© 2021 by BroadStreet Publishing®
978-1-4245-6386-9 (faux)
978-1-4245-6387-6 (eBook)
Devotional entries composed by Natasha Marcellus.
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996, 2004, 2007. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved. Scripture quotations marked (NIV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. zondervan.com. The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (NIrV) are taken from the Holy Bible, New International Reader’s Version®, NIrV® Copyright © 1995, 1996, 1998, 2014 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIrV” and “New International Reader’s Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™ Scripture quotations marked (NCV) are taken from the New Century Version®. Copyright © 2005 by Thomas Nelson. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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Printed in China.
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 7 6 5 4 3 2 1
“Here is what I’m commanding you to do. Be strong and brave. Do not be afraid. Do not lose hope. I am the LORD your God. I will be with you everywhere you go.”
JOSHUA 1:9 NIRV
Contents
Introduction
January
January 1: A New Creation
January 2: Be Still
January 3: Pray About Everything
January 4: Stay Steady
January 5: Sharing Good News
January 6: Focus Your Heart
January 7: Peace of Jesus
January 8: Made in God’s Image
January 9: A Masterpiece
January 10: More to Learn
January 11: On Your Own
January 12: He Is Wiser
January 13: Be an Encourager
January 14: Choosing Friends
January 15: List of Wrongs
January 16: Father and Creator
January 17: You Are Seen
January 18: Never Tired
January 19: Listen and Do
January 20: Always Worship
January 21: Worship with Talents
January 22: Not So Heavy
January 23: Guiding and Giving
January 24: Always Kind
January 25: Keep Short Lists
January 26: Just Like Jesus
January 27: Your Offering
January 28: Satisfaction of God
January 29: How to Be Loyal
January 30: God Always Helps
January 31: What You Can’t See
February
February 1: Always Near
February 2: God Is First
February 3: Joyful Medicine
February 4: Only the Truth
February 5: The New Law
February 6: His Blessing
February 7: Speak with Love
February 8: Moms and Dads
February 9: Loved Son
February 10: Lies Don’t Last
February 11: Chores and Freedom
February 12: Worry and Waiting
February 13: God’s Temple
February 14: Love Is Not Jealous
February 15: Perfect Love
February 16: God Is Merciful
February 17: Fruit of the Spirit
February 18: Empty Your Bucket
February 19: Jesus Flag
February 20: Being Humble
February 21: God of Miracles
February 22: Getting Stronger
February 23: Helping Hand
February 24: Being Brave
February 25: All of You
February 26: Right Choices
February 27: Before and After
February 28: With Your Heart
March
March 1: Your Guide
March 2: Take Your Time
March 3: The Richest Feast
March 4: The Spirit in You
March 5: Teachers
March 6: Studying God
March 7: Glorious Creation
March 8: Comforting Others
March 9: The Best Comforter
March 10: Listening and Doing
March 11: Better Than Money
March 12: Real Success
March 13: Following Jesus
March 14: When You’re Afraid
March 15: Showing Honor
March 16: Tell Someone
March 17: Calm in God
March 18: Always Close
March 19: The Real Enemy
March 20: All Good Things
March 21: Unity
March 22: Always True
March 23: No Mystery
March 24: Overflowing Hope
March 25: Good Morning
March 26: We Need Rest
March 27: No Need to Lie
March 28: God’s Reflection
March 29: A Masterpiece
March 30: The Best Dad
March 31: Trusting
April
April 1: Always Present
April 2: Tell Him Everything
April 3: Let Go of Hate
April 4: Reading the Bible
April 5: Springtime Miracle
April 6: You Are Seen
April 7: Bad Habits
April 8: When Jesus Returns
April 9: Connected to God
April 10: Great Mercy
April 11: He Can Do Anything
April 12: Not Angry
April 13: After The Fight
April 14: Your Strength
April 15: Your Light
April 16: No Fear Here
April 17: The Good List
April 18: The Great I Am
April 19: Look Out For Doubt
April 20: Trustworthy and Faithful
April 21: Hair Count
April 22: Sharing Your Faith
April 23: Taken Care Of
April 24: Ready to Help
April 25: Examples of Love
April 26: To Love God
April 27: Don’t Hide Wrongs
April 28: Bible Instructions
April 29: The Gift of Jesus
April 30: Undivided Attention
May
May 1: Worries
May 2: Pointing Fingers
May 3: Use Your Voice
May 4: Take a Break
May 5: God Time
May 6: Inner Quiet
May 7: Be Bold
May 8: The Clay
May 9: Love Your Enemies
May 10: Your Anchor
May 11: On Your Team
May 12: Slow Down
May 13: Handling Anger
May 14: Gift-Giver
May 15: The Great Uniter
May 16: Beyond Everything
May 17: A Father’s Gifts
May 18: Go and Tell
May 19: Praise God
May 20: God Among Us
May 21: Love Equally
May 22: How to Love
May 23: Your People
May 24: Look for Him
May 25: Your Shepherd
May 26: God Gives Hope
May 27: Independence
May 28: Pollution
May 29: The Works
May 30: Pay Attention
May 31: God’s Mind
June
June 1: On Your Guard
June 2: Perfect Timing
June 3: Never Lost
June 4: God Always Hears
June 5: True Rest
June 6: Commit to the Lord
June 7: Growing Love
June 8: Righteous
June 9: Summer and Winter
June 10: One in a Billion
June 11: The Good Shepherd
June 12: God Knows You
June 13: Big Enough
June 14: Fear of Man
June 15: Speak Up
June 16: Holding Hands
June 17: Wrong Thoughts
June 18: Spending Time
June 19: Better Than Money
June 20: Powerful Protection
June 21: God Can Do It
June 22: Sharing in Love
June 23: Plans and Miracles
June 24: Being a Christian
June 25: Big, Big Love
June 26: What God Wants
June 27: The Greatest Dad
June 28: Good Fruit
June 29: Strong Walls
June 30: Getting Help
July
July 1: Being Afraid
July 2: Sing to God
July 3: Peacemaker
July 4: God’s Work
July 5: Rely on His Love
July 6: A Good Friend
July 7: Every Step
July 8: I Don’t Understand
July 9: When It’s Hard
July 10: A Soft Heart
July 11: Always Use Kindness
July 12: In Harmony
July 13: Sandy Shoes
July 14: No Separation
July 15: His Way
July 16: It Is Plenty
July 17: Garden Harvest
July 18: Give What You Have
July 19: Good News
July 20: Brand New
July 21: All For God
July 22: In His Creation
July 23: Powerful Words
July 24: Know His Love
July 25: Your Refuge
July 26: Hard Work
July 27: New Things
July 28: Always Thankful
July 29: Getting Wisdom
July 30: Fear The Lord
July 31: Free Will
August
August 1: The Holy Spirit
August 2: God Is Merciful
August 3: Tests
August 4: Good Examples
August 5: Great Works
August 6: A Son’s Prayers
August 7: Face to Face
August 8: Ask For Help
August 9: Your Foundation
August 10: A Long Time
August 11: Joy With God
August 12: Always Hope
August 13: God Is Love
August 14: God’s Song
August 15: How God Cares
August 16: He Made You
August 17: God’s Wisdom
August 18: Toward Everyone
August 19: Waiting
August 20: Speak Up
August 21: Say Thank You
August 22: It Matters
August 23: True Religion
August 24: The Same Jesus
August 25: A Gentle Word
August 26: Your Help
August 27: Every Morning
August 28: Faith and Dreams
August 29: Only in Faith
August 30: Always Needed
August 31: Come Together
September
September 1: Guilty Feelings
September 2: Knowing Good
September 3: He Never Fails
September 4: God Rested
September 5: On Your Side
September 6: Splendor and Majesty
September 7: Do to Others
September 8: God Is Strong
September 9: Love as God Loves
September 10: Your Secrets
September 11: Depend on Him
September 12: Work in Progress
September 13: Jesus Knows
September 14: Plans For You
September 15: Praise Helps
September 16: God Around You
September 17: Gift of a Smile
September 18: Share The News
September 19: Treasure Hunt
September 20: Bravery in God
September 21: Strength in Weakness
September 22: Different and Together
September 23: In Control
September 24: Laziness Isn’t Rest
September 25: Light of Jesus
September 26: He Deserves Praise
September 27: Never Alone
September 28: Being Honest
September 29: A Rebuke
September 30: In the Morning
October
October 1: Opportunities
October 2: Safety at Night
October 3: Stomped Sins
October 4: Pleasing the Lord
October 5: Good Friends
October 6: Kind Words
October 7: Retrace Your Steps
October 8: Backwards
October 9: Your Prayers
October 10: Wanting the Bad
October 11: Never Ashamed
October 12: God’s Voice
October 13: Know His Voice
October 14: Sitting Together
October 15: Unknown Tomorrow
October 16: Small Beginnings
October 17: Gives and Takes
October 18: Poured Love
October 19: Not Alone
October 20: Kinds of Worship
October 21: High Priest
October 22: Judging
October 23: He Can Do It
October 24: Accept Each Other
October 25: Your Gifts
October 26: God’s Treasure
October 27: Words and Trees
October 28: God’s Greatness
October 29: You Can Help
October 30: Practice Being Wise
October 31: Getting Rewarded
November
November 1: Support Others
November 2: Eyes Closed
November 3: New Spirit
November 4: Sharing Your Faith
November 5: Hiding Place
November 6: Lay Down Your Life
November 7: When Villains Win
November 8: Saying Thanks
November 9: Having Faith
November 10: Cloud of Believers
November 11: Young Example
November 12: Respect and Love
November 13: For Good
November 14: Preparing a Place
November 15: Blotted Out
November 16: Don’t Brag
November 17: Equally Important
November 18: Kind Father
November 19: Your Shield
November 20: Love Learning
November 21: Price Paid
November 22: Words Are Powerful
November 23: Angel Commander
November 24: God Sees
November 25: He Paid
November 26: God Is Close
November 27: You Are a Gift
November 28: Listen to Your Parents
November 29: Your True Home
November 30: Trustworthy God
December
December 1: When Jesus Comes Back
December 2: No Mistakes
December 3: Be a Servant
December 4: His Desires
December 5: Brothers and Sisters
December 6: Good Creation
December 7: Credit to God
December 8: God’s Day
December 9: Rules and Reason
December 10: Be Generous
December 11: Satisfying Love
December 12: What Is Your Gift?
December 13: Your Heart
December 14: Bitter Roots
December 15: Waiting For a King
December 16: Baby King
December 17: Graciously Given
December 18: Grace of Giving
December 19: A Jealous God
December 20: Unearned Gift
December 21: Not Like The World
December 22: Rest in God
December 23: Everything
December 24: His Word Stands
December 25: In a Stable
December 26: Friendly Words
December 27: Value Others
December 28: Find Rest in God
December 29: What Lasts Forever
December 30: Eternal Rock
December 31: It Takes Time
INTRODUCTION
Every child has a purpose. As you spend time with God, you will learn more about who you are and what you were created to do.
This book of devotions is written especially for boys like you. It teaches you that God is strong, dependable, and good. It encourages you to walk closely with him, make wise choices, serve others, and be bold about who you are.
God created you for a reason. You are important to him, and he wants a special relationship with you. There is no one like you, and he is delighted to call you his son! Let him fill your heart with purpose as you spend a little time with him each day.
JANUARY
God chose us to belong to Christ before the world was created. He chose us to be holy and without blame in his eyes. He loved us.
EPHESIANS 1:4 NIRV
JANUARY 1
A NEW CREATION
Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!
2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 NLT
In the middle of winter, it might feel like spring will never come. No matter how many frosty days are left, you dream about how exciting and refreshing springtime will be. Everything around you will be filled with warmth and burst into life. Flowers will bloom. Babies will be born. The grass will turn green, and you’ll feel the sun on your face while you run around outside. The world becomes new again.
When you belong to Christ, your life is just like the world in springtime. It’s new. You’ve become a different creation. Your heart has been made new, and it is full of life. God’s love has transformed you just like the world is transformed in each new season. Today, rejoice that you have new life inside of you. Ask God to refresh you and make you feel newly alive! Remember that your heart has been made new. You don’t have to hold onto the old you.
Thank you, God, for making me new. Help me to remember that you see me through Jesus. When I am discouraged, remind me that I am yours.
JANUARY 2
BE STILL
Be still and know that I am God. I will be praised in all the nations; I will be praised throughout the earth.
PSALM 46:10 NCV
Do you ever feel anxious or frustrated? There are a lot of things in your life that you can’t control, and your parents probably make a lot of decisions for you. No matter how little control you have, you can choose to be still and recognize who God is.
You can sit for a moment and remember that God is in control. He is the one who knows all your days. You can worship him no matter what else is happening in your life. No matter how frustrated you might be, you can praise him. You can choose to respond to God with worship and admiration. It is your choice to love God with your actions, words, and attitudes. Even if everything around you feels crazy, you can be still and know who God is.
Jesus, no matter how stressed out I feel, I can choose to praise you. When I feel overwhelmed or out of control, help me to choose to worship you.
JANUARY 3
PRAY ABOUT EVERYTHING
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done.
PHILIPPIANS 4:6 NLT
Did you know that God cares about your troubles? No matter how big or small they are, God cares about them. If you are frustrated in school, he cares. If your family is going through a hard time, he cares. If you don’t like what you’re eating for dinner, he cares. There is nothing in your life that he doesn’t care about. Nothing is too small for him to notice or too big for him to handle.
He wants you to know that he loves you and he will take care of you. He wants you to share your troubles with him. Even if you think it’s silly, he wants you to talk with him about your day, both your good moments and your difficult ones. When you talk to him, he can replace your worry with peace, and you can thank him for his goodness.
Thank you, God, that I can talk to you. Thank you for caring about me and for taking care of my worries. Teach me how to pray about everything instead of worrying about what I need or want.
JANUARY 4
STAY STEADY
To him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you before his glorious presence without fault and with great joy.
JUDE 1:24 NIV
Imagine you are hiking on a trail through the woods. Part of your path goes downhill over some rocks. As you struggle to keep your balance, you reach out toward whatever trees or branches are around you. You don’t want to fall, so you find something that will help you keep your steps steady.
In your everyday life, God keeps you steady. Grabbing him will keep you from falling, just like grabbing a branch will keep you steady when you’re hiking. Maybe you feel unsteady because you’re struggling in school, or perhaps you’re finding it hard to have a good attitude. Maybe there’s a problem with a friend or your family is going through a hard time. Whatever is causing you to struggle, God can keep you steady. Reach out to him and ask for help.
God, thank you for keeping me steady. You are the one who helps me not to fall. When I am having a hard time, I know that I can count on you.
JANUARY 5
SHARING GOOD NEWS
I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes.
ROMANS 1:16 NIV
When you share the gospel, you are giving a wonderful gift. You might feel nervous or unsure of what to say, but you don’t need to be ashamed. Sharing Jesus with someone can change their life. The gospel is really good news, and when you have something good, you want to share it!
Imagine having a birthday cake but no one to share it with. Imagine having a room full of gifts but no one to play with. When you have good things, it is best to share. It isn’t fun to keep good things all to yourself. Today, ask God to show you how to share his love with someone. He will give you courage and the right words to say. He will help you even if you are nervous.
Thank you, God, for the gift of the gospel. Help me to share it with those around me. Give me the right words to say and help my actions to show people how much you love them. I don’t want to keep good things to myself.
JANUARY 6
FOCUS YOUR HEART
Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise.
PHILIPPIANS 4:8 NLT
You become like the things that you think, the things that you hear, and the things that you see. This is why the Bible says to focus on what is true, right, pure, and lovely. If you are focusing on what is negative, then you will become that way as well. If you find that your thoughts are filled with worry, negativity, or jealousy, your heart will feel heavy.
A heart that is focused on what is good is full of peace. One way to focus on what is true is to practice being thankful. The more you practice seeing the good things in your life, the easier it will be to focus on what is good. Today, ask God to help you keep your mind focused on what is good.
I want my thoughts to honor you, God. Show me where I am focusing on negative things. Thank you for always helping me when I need it. Help me to practice thanksgiving as a way of concentrating on what is true.
JANUARY 7
PEACE OF JESUS
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.
COLOSSIANS 3:15 NLT
What does it mean for the peace of Christ to rule in your heart? It means that peace is the one in charge. Peace is the biggest, strongest. and most important feeling inside of your heart. Peace tells fear to go away. Peace tells worry that it is not welcome. When peace is ruling, you will constantly be aware of where that peace comes from.
Peace comes from putting your faith in Jesus. Peace comes from knowing that Christ died for you, rose from the dead, and is coming back again. Peace comes from knowing that there aren’t any problems on earth that can change the truth of who Jesus is. Today, let peace take over your heart. Let peace tell every fear and anxious thought to go away. Jesus is so great, there isn’t room for anything else!
Jesus, thank you for your peace. I want peace to rule in my heart. I don’t want there to be space for fear. Teach me how to let peace be in charge. Thank you that your truth never changes.
JANUARY 8
MADE IN GOD’S IMAGE
We use our tongues to praise our Lord and Father, but then we curse people, whom God made like himself.
JAMES 3:9 NCV
You are made in the image of God. This means that you were made to look like God. Did you know that? Every part of you is precious and made to reflect who God is. He is good, so that means that all his creations are good too.
If you are made in the good and perfect image of God, then so is everyone else. Each person that you see or talk to is a reflection of God just like you are. No matter how different someone is from you, they are God’s perfect and good creation. Your love for people of every shape, color, size, and age comes from your love of God. When you love people even when they are different from you, you display God’s love. If you love God, then you must also love his people.
God, you created everyone in your image. Help me to see people the way that you see them: precious and good. Teach me how to love everyone equally no matter how different they are from me.
JANUARY 9
A MASTERPIECE
We are God’s masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.
EPHESIANS 2:10 NLT
Have you ever worked really, really hard on a project? When you finished, were you proud of what you made? You were probably happy about the work that you put into it. Maybe you wanted to tell everyone about it because you were so proud of it.
You are God’s workmanship, and he is very proud of you. You are his most precious creation. He has made everything you can see, yet you are still his favorite creation. You are worth more to him than the most beautiful sunrise, the most majestic mountain, and the most complicated ecosystem. You are wonderfully made, and God is happy with how he made you. When you feel like you aren’t important, remember that you are a masterpiece. You have a special purpose.
God, thank you for creating me! I know that you are proud of me. Remind me that I am important because you made me. When I feel bad about myself, remind me that I am wonderfully made.
JANUARY 10
MORE TO LEARN
God, your thoughts are precious to me. They are so many! If I could count them, they would be more than all the grains of sand.
PSALM 139:17-18 NCV
Can you imagine how many grains of sand are in the world? Could you count even one handful of sand? It would be a really big number. Counting grains of sand is just like trying to count God’s thoughts. It’s impossible! You could spend your whole life trying to understand what God thinks, and there still wouldn’t be enough time.
There will always be something you can learn about God. You can never know enough about him. There will never be a point in your life when you are done getting to know him. He is too big and too great. This is encouraging because it means that you won’t get bored as you seek to know him. It also means that there isn’t room for pride. Even someone who has been following God for fifty years still has something to learn.
God, I’m glad that I have time to get to know you. I’m glad that I won’t run out of things to do when it comes to seeking you. Thank you for the exciting adventure of learning about you.
JANUARY 11
ON YOUR OWN
He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak.
ISAIAH 40:29 NIV
God sees you and your needs, and he loves to help. When you are tired, ask him for strength. When you are weak, ask him for power. He is better at taking care of you than anyone else in the world. He loves you, and he wants you to depend on him for what you need.
This means asking him for help instead of trying to solve a problem on your own. On your own, there is a lot that you can’t do. With God on your side, you have all that you need. You have access to the Creator of the entire universe! It makes sense to ask him for help. Today, when you face a problem, ask God to help you. Go to him in faith, knowing that he can do what you need him to do. Believe that his strength is big enough to provide for you. Trust that when you go to him, he will answer you.
God, thank you for giving me all that I need. I know you can make me strong and that my power comes from you. Help me to depend on you when I need help. I don’t want to try to do everything on my own.
JANUARY 12
HE IS WISER
Don’t depend on your own wisdom. Respect the LORD and refuse to do wrong. Then your body will be healthy, and your bones will be strong.
PROVERBS 3:7-8 NCV
Have you ever done something that you thought was right, but it turned out to be wrong? Sometimes, when we think we are making the right choice, we don’t actually understand the whole situation. People often think that they are wiser than they really are.
The smartest thing you can do is trust that God is smarter than you. His wisdom is great, and he always knows what is best. He can see every part of your life. He knows exactly what you should do. When you trust him to guide you, he will be faithful to teach you what is right. You can’t go wrong with him as your teacher. In all things, look to God for wisdom. He loves to help his children. There will never be a time when he is frustrated by you asking for help.
God, your wisdom is great! I know that you are the best teacher I have. Help me to depend more on your wisdom than on my own. You know best, and I want to include you in all my choices.
JANUARY 13
BE AN ENCOURAGER
The words of a gossip are like tasty bits of food. People like to gobble them up.
PROVERBS 18:8 NCV
Do you know what gossip is? It is talking about a person or situation that doesn’t have to do with you. People sometimes gossip because it makes them feel better about themselves. It can be tempting to talk about other people, but it can also be very hurtful. Imagine how you would feel if you found out that your friends were saying mean or untrue things about you when you weren’t there.
Part of being a good friend is honoring others with your words. They might seem harmless, but your words are powerful. Use them to encourage others, not to talk about them behind their backs. When you speak kindly, you honor people and God.
Thank you, God, for teaching me how to love other people. Help me to be respectful and kind with my words, even when gossip might be fun. Help me to stand up for others when I hear gossip and to honor you with what I say.
JANUARY 14
CHOOSING FRIENDS
The righteous choose their friends carefully, but the way of the wicked leads them astray.
PROVERBS 12:26 NIV
Have you ever seen an orphaned animal raised by a different animal? There once was baby goat who was abandoned by her mother. This baby goat became really attached to a dog. As the goat grew, she acted more and more like a dog because the dog was the main influence in her life. She never learned how to be a goat.
It’s funny to watch, and it also shows that you become like the people and friends you spend time with. When you spend a lot of time with someone, you start to become like them. This is why it’s important to choose your friends carefully. We should love everyone, but the people we spend the most time with should be kind, encouraging, and help us to grow in our relationship with God. Good friends are a great gift!
Jesus, thank you for good friends. Help me to choose my friends wisely. Show me how they are influencing my decisions. Help me to be the kind of friend who lifts up others and encourages them.
JANUARY 15
LIST OF WRONGS
Whoever would foster love covers over an offense, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.
PROVERBS 17:9 NIV
God does not keep a record of wrongs, and we shouldn’t either. Imagine that you get into a fight with your friend. He says something that hurts your feelings, and you say something mean back. You apologize to each other and ask for forgiveness. Once you have healed your friendship, it isn’t good to keep bringing it up again. It would be hurtful to your friend if you kept reminding him about how he did something mean to you that one time.
This is why the Bible reminds us to cover an offense with love. This means that your love for your friend is more important than the fight. When you love someone, you don’t keep track of all their mistakes. This is how God loves us. We ask for forgiveness, and he doesn’t keep a list. He throws our sins away and doesn’t remember them.
God, I want to be someone who forgives quickly and loves well. Help me not to keep a list of mistakes. Help me to remember how you love me. Thank you for forgiving me and throwing away all the things I’ve done wrong.
JANUARY 16
FATHER AND CREATOR
“Look at how the lilies in the field grow. They don’t work or make clothes for themselves. But I tell you that even Solomon with his riches was not dressed as beautifully as one of these flowers.”
MATTHEW 6:28 NCV
Has your mom or dad ever made you something that you enjoyed? Think about a time your mom cooked a delicious meal just for you, so you could enjoy it. Maybe your dad helped you build a Lego set so you could play with it. They love you, and they love when you enjoy what they have made.
In the same way, God made the world beautiful so we could enjoy it. He didn’t have to make flowers or mountains. He didn’t have to create rolling meadows or sandy beaches. The beauty that you see outside is a reminder of who God is. He made a wide and wonderful world for us to enjoy. Everything that he has created reminds us that he is a kind father who loves to see his children happy. When you see lovely things, thank God for them! Praise him for the world around you. Today, think about your favorite parts of creation and thank God for them.
God, thank you for all that you have created! Help me to think about your goodness and kindness when I see all that you have made. You didn’t have to make the world beautiful, but you did. Thank you for being such a generous father!
JANUARY 17
YOU ARE SEEN
LORD, you have seen what is in my heart. You know all about me. You know when I sit down and when I get up. You know what I’m thinking even though you are far away.
PSALM 139:1-2 NIRV
Do you ever feel lonely or misunderstood? Sometimes, it can be hard to communicate how you feel. It is difficult to find the right words to share what’s inside your heart and mind. When you are upset, it can be really frustrating when the people around you don’t understand.
Even when those around you don’t understand you, God does. He knows exactly what’s in your heart. He knows everything about you without you having to explain it to him. In God, you are fully known and fully loved. There isn’t any part of you that is confusing to him. No matter how lonely you feel, God is with you. He knows you. Next time you feel misunderstood, remember that God understands. Be comforted by how well God knows you.
Thank you for knowing me, God. Thank you for being close to me all the time and for always understanding me. Help me to remember that you are near and that you are always aware of me.
JANUARY 18
NEVER TIRED
Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
ISAIAH 40:31 NIV
How far can you run before your legs get tired? Can you make it one mile? What about ten? What about a hundred? Can you imagine what it must be like to run and never get tired? God says that when your hope is in him, it is like running without ever getting tired. This hope happens when you serve the one true God whose Son, Jesus, died for your sins and was raised from the dead.
When that truth is your hope, you will run and not grow weary. God’s truth will stand forever. There is nothing stronger that you could put your hope in. When your hope is in God, it is safe, solid, and secure. Today, take a moment to think about what gives you the most hope. If your hope is in something other than God, ask him to help you change your mind.
Thank you, God, that my hope is secure in you. Help me to place my hope in your truth. Show me when I am putting my hope in things that won’t last. I know that when my hope is in you, you will make me strong.
JANUARY 19
LISTEN AND DO
Those who hear God’s teaching and do nothing are like people who look at themselves in a mirror. They see their faces and then go away and quickly forget what they looked like.
JAMES 1:23-24 NCV
You can probably think of a time when your mom or dad asked you to do something, and you didn’t listen. Maybe you were told to grab your coat on the way out of the house, but instead you ran to the car without it. Later, you realized that the suggestion was a good one, and you should have listened. You were cold, and everything would have been more fun if you were warm.
Hearing your mom talk about your coat doesn’t help you stay warm. The only thing that makes a difference is if you actually wear the coat. This is true about your relationship with God too. You might know what he wants you to do, but what’s most important is that you do what he says not just hear it. It takes courage to listen to God’s voice, but his teaching is loving and kind, and it’s best for you.
God, you know what’s best for me. Help me to do more than just hear your words. Help me to listen with my actions as well. Teach me how to follow you.
JANUARY 20
ALWAYS WORSHIP
Whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.
COLOSSIANS 3:17 NIV
Anything you do, big or small, can be an act of worship to God. When you do your math lesson, it can be an act of worship. When you are a good friend, or when you share with your sister, you are worshiping God. When you listen to your parents or help with cleaning the house, you are worshiping God.
Worship doesn’t have to be about singing. Anything that you do in the name of Jesus can be worship. Commit your actions and words to him. Ask him to help you honor him with them. When you think about how your actions can be a gift to God, it can help you to be careful about what you say and do. You can make choices that you are proud of. When you look at everything you do as an act of worship, it can help you make wise decisions. Today, in all you do, seek to worship God.
God, I want everything that I say and do to honor you. Help me to worship you with my actions and with my words. I want the way that I live to show other people how much you love them. Help me to make wise decisions and do things in your name.
JANUARY 21
WORSHIP WITH TALENTS
“The LORD has chosen Bezalel…and he has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills—to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, to cut and set stones, to work in wood.”
EXODUS 35:30-33 NIV
When you think about worshiping God, what do you think of? The first thing that comes to your mind might be standing at church, surrounded by people, singing a worship song while a band plays on stage. This is probably what most people think of when they think of worship.
It is good to worship God through song, but it is not the only way. Did you know that anytime you use the talents God gave you, you are worshiping him? Worship can be anything from making art to raking leaves to running a race. No matter what talents God has given you, you can worship God in all you do. You are worshiping him when you joyfully use the abilities that he has given you. It brings him honor when you use your talents to praise him. Today, think of new ways to worship God.
God, thank you for all the different ways that I can worship you! Help me to honor you by using the gifts you’ve given me. Show me new ways to worship you.
JANUARY 22
NOT SO HEAVY
We have now, because Christ made us free. So stand strong.
GALATIANS 5:1 NCV
Jesus has set you free! He died on the cross so you would have freedom. Without his death, you would be responsible for all your sin. That would be a very heavy and difficult burden to bear.
Imagine you are hiking with your family. You’re making your way up a mountain and with each step, your backpack seems to get heavier and heavier. When you get to the top, you drop your pack and breathe a sigh of relief. It feels so good to lose the weight of your backpack. Even though you’re tired, putting down your heavy burden makes you feel like you could climb the mountain all over again. This is how we feel when we realize that Christ has given us freedom. He has taken the heaviness of our sin away. We don’t have to carry it anymore. Today, celebrate what Jesus has done for you! Enjoy the freedom that he paid for.
Thank you for taking the burden of my sin, Jesus. I am glad that I don’t have to carry it on my own. Help me to remember what you have done for me and to stand strong in my freedom.
JANUARY 23
GUIDING AND GIVING
The LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He has watched over your journey through this vast wilderness. These forty years the LORD your God has been with you, and you have not lacked anything.
DEUTERONOMY 2:7 NIV
Did you know that the Israelites wandered in the desert for forty years? In the Old Testament, you can read about how God told the Israelites that he would bring them to the Promised Land. Part of their journey to that place was wandering around in the desert. The whole time they were there, God provided for them. He made food fall from the sky, and he made water spring up from rocks. Miracle after miracle brought them what they needed.
In the same way, God will always provide you with what you need. He watches over you and takes care of you. The Israelites often thought that God had abandoned them, but he never did. He was on their side all along. Even when you feel alone or lost, God is close to you. He is guiding you and giving you all that you need.
Thank you, God, for guiding me when I am lost. Teach me how to see all the ways that you have taken care of me. I know that you are on my side and that you will give me what I need. Thank you for never leaving me.
JANUARY 24
ALWAYS KIND
You are a God who forgives. You are gracious. You are tender and kind. You are slow to get angry. You are full of love.
NEHEMIAH 9:17 NIRV
Have you ever felt like God is big or scary? Have you ever been embarrassed about something you’ve done or been nervous to talk to him about your mistakes? If you are ever afraid to approach him, remember what the Bible says about who he is. The truth is that he is always kind, always full of love, and always gracious. He is slow to anger. He will always forgive you.
If you remember these things, then you will see God in the right way. Sometimes, because humans make so many mistakes, it can be hard to understand how perfect God is. No matter what, he loves you, and he wants to show you that love. He can take away your biggest mistakes and shower you with love and peace. When you see him the right way, you can joyfully run to him even with your mistakes. You won’t have any fear about what he might do. Today, ask God to help you focus on who he truly is.
God, thank you for being who you are. I know that you always love me, and you are always kind. Even when I don’t understand, you are tender and slow to anger. Help me to see you the right way.
JANUARY 25
KEEP SHORT LISTS
Love… keeps no record of being wronged.
1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-5 NLT
How many times has your sibling, friend, or neighbor done something to annoy you? It can be really easy to keep track of these little offenses. If you especially like things to be fair, it is tempting to keep a list in your mind of all of the wrongs that have been done to you.
The Bible says that choosing to love someone means that you don’t keep track of wrongs. God is quick to forgive you despite all the things that you have done wrong, and you are asked to love those around you in the same way. Thankfully, God does not keep a list of all your mistakes, and he asks you to do the same for others. When you really want to make a list, remember that your love for others comes from God’s love for you.
Thank you, God, for the way that you love me. You don’t keep track of all my mistakes, and you forgive me when I come to you. Help me to love others in the same way. It can be hard to love people when they make mistakes; help me to love like you do.
JANUARY 26
JUST LIKE JESUS
Walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us.
EPHESIANS 5:2 NIV
If you are ever unsure of what it means to love someone, think about how Jesus loved people. Jesus put the needs of others before his own. Like Jesus, you can try to notice what other people need instead of focusing on yourself. Jesus also spoke up when someone was hurting. Just like Jesus, you can stand up for others when they are being bullied or hurt. Jesus noticed when people were lonely or forgotten. You can look for people who are lonely and be a good friend to them.
There are so many ways that you can try to love like Jesus did. Each day holds unlimited chances to live the way he did. If you are unsure of where to start, ask God! He loves to teach us how to be more like Jesus. Ask him to show you how to love people well.
Jesus, thank you for your life! Thank you for dying so I can live. Teach me how to love like you do. Show me how to think of others before I think about myself.
JANUARY 27
YOUR OFFERING
Since God has shown us great mercy, I beg you to offer your lives as a living sacrifice to him. Your offering must be only for God and pleasing to him.
ROMANS 12:1 NCV
In the Old Testament, before Jesus was alive, people used to offer sacrifices to God. They offered sacrifices as a way to pay for their sins. Jesus died so you don’t have to pay the price for your sins. The only sacrifice you need to make is to follow Jesus. Offer your life to God because Jesus gave his life for you.
With each day that you live, your life can be a pleasing offering to God. He is the only one who is worthy of your life. He has shown you great mercy by paying for your sins, and it is right to offer him your life. You don’t have to pay the price for your sins, and you are free to love God and be devoted to him with your words, actions, and heart. When you give him your life, it should be out of love and thankfulness for the great things he has given you. How can you live your life for God today? Ask him and he will tell you.
Jesus, thank you for paying the price for my sins so I don’t have to. Thank you for being the sacrifice so I can be close to God. Help me to live for you. I want my words and my actions to honor what you have done for me.
JANUARY 28
SATISFACTION OF GOD
You satisfy me more than the richest feast I will praise you with songs of joy.
PSALM 63:5 NLT
Imagine looking forward to an exciting event. Maybe it’s a holiday, a special meal, or a fun family activity. Each day, you eagerly wait for what’s to come. You might make a paper chain to count down the days, or you might cross off a square on a calendar each day, getting more excited as the big day gets nearer.
Have you ever looked forward to something and then been kind of sad the day after, knowing that it’s over and it couldn’t last? You are dissatisfied because while you enjoyed it for a time, no meal, holiday, or event can last forever. This is not true with God. He can bring eternal satisfaction. His goodness lasts forever and ever. His love will never fade. His mercy has no end. He can provide you something greater than even the best thing you can imagine. His love for you is perfect and better than anything you’ll find on earth.
Thank you for being better than all my favorite things combined, God! Help me to feel your love and to be filled with praise. I love you, and I want to know you more.
JANUARY 29
HOW TO BE LOYAL
A friend is always loyal.
PROVERBS 17:17 NCV
Do you know what it means to be loyal? Being loyal to someone means that you support them. It means you are on their side. You won’t leave their team and you will stand faithfully by them. A loyal friend is a good friend.
One way that you can be a loyal friend is by standing up for someone when others are saying unkind things about them. A loyal friend speaks truth and says encouraging words. Another way that you can be loyal is by being with your friend when they are sad even when you would rather do something else. A loyal friend makes people feel loved and wanted. Today, think about some ways that you can show your friends that you are loyal to them. How can you encourage them with your words and actions?
God, thank you for teaching me how to be a good friend. I want to be loyal to my friends, and I want to encourage them. Show me ways that I can love the friends that you have given me.
JANUARY 30
GOD ALWAYS HELPS
If any of you needs wisdom, you should ask God for it. He is generous to everyone. But when you ask God, you must believe and not doubt. Anyone who doubts is like a wave in the sea, blown up and down by the wind.
JAMES
