NO TIME TO WASTE
Ephesians 5:14-17
Vv. 15-16: “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.”
Hidden Gears devotion shows how people learn the best way to approach different situations. The ideal is for Christians to grow into a righteous living gear after a youth of foolishness. Sustain Through devotion showed how ten year old Jeremy changed everything by changing gears.
Since the twelve year old guys’ teasing usually ruined ten year old Jeremy’s mood, he tried something different. After praying for Jesus to help him, Jeremy forgave the older boys’ mocking. He smiled and wished them a great day when exiting the bus. The older kids were shocked! That day, Jeremy’s performance changed everything on his world stage.
The next day, Walt, one of the three twelve year old boys, asked Jeremy, “What time is your football game on Saturday?” Perry and Trey looked at Walt like he was crazy.
Jeremy stopped walking. He turned to face the three guys who had made fun of him just yesterday. “One o’clock.” He said. “See you there?”
Time governs our lives. Scripture compares earthly life to “a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” (James 4:14). Jeremy didn’t waste his time on the school bus by changing his world’s stage. His forgiving the older boys affected them deeply. They saw Jeremy differently after that. Maybe the younger kid wasn’t so bad. Could they all be friends?
God gives us exactly enough time to complete what He’s planned for our lives on earth. How are you spending the time allotted to you? Are you selfishly pursuing personal goals, or is your time invested for eternity?
Investing for eternity is following God’s plan for your life. Peoples’ God-given plan is to glorify our heavenly Father. Ephesians 2:10 says, “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Investing for eternity is the same as depositing money in the bank. However God’s kids serve others, we serve Jesus (Matthew 25:40). Serving is like depositing “money in the bank” of eternity. Serving others—good works—grows interest, same as money deposited in a bank. Every service we invest for eternity collects interest—or rewards! Some rewards are realized on earth; others Jesus gives to us personally (Matthew 16:27).
Take Home Nugget
Jesus wasted no time His thirty-three years on earth. He prayed in John 17:4, “I have brought You glory on earth by completing the work You gave Me to do.” His last words, “It is finished” (John 19:30).
Each moment we invest in eternity today collects interest of rewards for tomorrow.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for No Time to Waste
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Friday, November 30, 2012
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Hidden Gears
HIDDEN GEARS
Titus 3:1-8
V. 3: “At one time we were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.”
Sustain Through devotion showed Jeremy change gears. Three twelve year old boys stopped making fun of ten year old Jeremy when he wished them a great day. Jeremy forgave them, despite his wanting to deck them for mocking him every day on the school bus. People generally plow through life at one speed. But occasionally, we slow down, and do something different, just like Jeremy did.
Jeremy’s changing gears caused a ripple effect in the lives of those three guys. Trey said, “What do you think Jeremy meant about, ‘Have a great day?’”
Perry commented, “It was way more fun when he insulted us. Who else can we pick on?”
“Doesn’t Jeremy play football? Let’s go see one of his games,” Walt suggested.
Jeremy’s forgiveness changed the attitude of three twelve year old boys towards him. Everything we say and do affects others. Forgiving others changes us—it frees us from the chains of bondage to bitterness.
People’s actions are on display on the world’s stage. Others judge us on our performance. How long does it take to grow out of being foolish, like the opening Scripture describes?
Young people naturally do foolish things. How they respond to criticism influences their next performances. Years of living teach people how to act in varying situations—their performance improves as they learn what works out best.
As a young child, I got a bicycle. It had one speed. I didn’t know the difference, so I pedaled fast everywhere I went. Then I got a three speed bicycle. That changed everything. I could change gears depending on whether the road was up hill or down. It was way more fun. Then I got a ten speed bike.
I could rip through the gears and observe how the pedaling changed. I didn’t use every gear every day. I chose which gear was best for the road I was travelling. The same is true for people’s performances in various life situations. Everyone has hidden gears. Specific circumstances demand performing in different gears.
Life teaches people when to switch gears.
Take Home Nugget
When Jesus died on the cross and offered people forgiveness of sins and eternal life, the world’s stage changed. After accepting Jesus as Lord of their lives, some people pedal at one speed for the rest of their lives. Others grow up in their faith, and change gears that improve their performance. Mature Christians perform in the righteousness gear on the world’s stage.
Keep hidden gears ready to use as God finds work for you.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Hidden Gears
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Titus 3:1-8
V. 3: “At one time we were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.”
Sustain Through devotion showed Jeremy change gears. Three twelve year old boys stopped making fun of ten year old Jeremy when he wished them a great day. Jeremy forgave them, despite his wanting to deck them for mocking him every day on the school bus. People generally plow through life at one speed. But occasionally, we slow down, and do something different, just like Jeremy did.
Jeremy’s changing gears caused a ripple effect in the lives of those three guys. Trey said, “What do you think Jeremy meant about, ‘Have a great day?’”
Perry commented, “It was way more fun when he insulted us. Who else can we pick on?”
“Doesn’t Jeremy play football? Let’s go see one of his games,” Walt suggested.
Jeremy’s forgiveness changed the attitude of three twelve year old boys towards him. Everything we say and do affects others. Forgiving others changes us—it frees us from the chains of bondage to bitterness.
People’s actions are on display on the world’s stage. Others judge us on our performance. How long does it take to grow out of being foolish, like the opening Scripture describes?
Young people naturally do foolish things. How they respond to criticism influences their next performances. Years of living teach people how to act in varying situations—their performance improves as they learn what works out best.
As a young child, I got a bicycle. It had one speed. I didn’t know the difference, so I pedaled fast everywhere I went. Then I got a three speed bicycle. That changed everything. I could change gears depending on whether the road was up hill or down. It was way more fun. Then I got a ten speed bike.
I could rip through the gears and observe how the pedaling changed. I didn’t use every gear every day. I chose which gear was best for the road I was travelling. The same is true for people’s performances in various life situations. Everyone has hidden gears. Specific circumstances demand performing in different gears.
Life teaches people when to switch gears.
Take Home Nugget
When Jesus died on the cross and offered people forgiveness of sins and eternal life, the world’s stage changed. After accepting Jesus as Lord of their lives, some people pedal at one speed for the rest of their lives. Others grow up in their faith, and change gears that improve their performance. Mature Christians perform in the righteousness gear on the world’s stage.
Keep hidden gears ready to use as God finds work for you.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Hidden Gears
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, November 23, 2012
Sustain Through
SUSTAIN THROUGH
Psalm 138
V. 8: “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your love, O Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of Your hands.”
Ten year old Jeremy had to take the school bus to school every day. Heaviest Burden devotion showed his trouble: three twelve year old kids enjoyed teasing him. Approved of God devotion showed how Jeremy changed everything.
Some times when we pray to God asking for help for a problem, He allows the problem to remain for a bit. Sustain [sus-TANE] means to continue, carry on, keep up. Sustain through shows that Jesus sees us through the problem until it’s solved. God’s kids never walk alone. Although Jeremy wanted to deck the guys after hearing their taunts, Jesus showed him something different.
Jeremy knew that yelling insults back at them didn’t shut them up. So he kept silent when walking to his seat—although his ears flamed red at the boys’ poking fun. Looking out the window, Jeremy prayed, asking for God’s help. Jesus immediately advised him what to do. As Jeremy walked out past them, he smiled at them, and wished them a great day. From then on, they left him alone. What happened?
Jeremy forgave them.
Sustaining through shows Jesus walking alongside Jeremy until the problem was solved. He will do that for you, too. King David was always in trouble. Many Psalms he wrote show his struggles and disappointments. The opening Scripture shows David’s confidence, trust, and dependence on a God Who won’t stop short of achieving His purpose. David’s certain victory was due to:
1) Never doubting God’s purpose. The only sure way we can arrive at victory during trouble is to remain focused on the Lord, Who promises us good things. Sometimes, we must walk through trouble to claim victory—God’s purpose of our lives. It’s in the valleys we grow.
2) Reliance on God’s power. God will deliver us from troubles, but we must trust Him to sustain us through to victory. Jesus walks with us every step of the way.
3) Believing that God keeps promises. The opening Scripture, (and lesson in the link below), show David reminding himself of God’s faithfulness. When people choose one inspirational passage of Scripture that anchors them to God’s promise, it will remind, encourage and sustain them through trouble.
Take Home Nugget
What’s more, God takes full responsibility for accomplishing His purpose through whatever problems we face. Your job is to believe that He will fulfill His purpose in your life. Your job is to trust that God keeps every promise in the Bible.
Biblical truths are our most prized possession. Nothing equals God’s help found in the Bible.
When trouble calls on you, call on God.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Sustain Through
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Psalm 138
V. 8: “The Lord will fulfill His purpose for me; Your love, O Lord, endures forever—do not abandon the works of Your hands.”
Ten year old Jeremy had to take the school bus to school every day. Heaviest Burden devotion showed his trouble: three twelve year old kids enjoyed teasing him. Approved of God devotion showed how Jeremy changed everything.
Some times when we pray to God asking for help for a problem, He allows the problem to remain for a bit. Sustain [sus-TANE] means to continue, carry on, keep up. Sustain through shows that Jesus sees us through the problem until it’s solved. God’s kids never walk alone. Although Jeremy wanted to deck the guys after hearing their taunts, Jesus showed him something different.
Jeremy knew that yelling insults back at them didn’t shut them up. So he kept silent when walking to his seat—although his ears flamed red at the boys’ poking fun. Looking out the window, Jeremy prayed, asking for God’s help. Jesus immediately advised him what to do. As Jeremy walked out past them, he smiled at them, and wished them a great day. From then on, they left him alone. What happened?
Jeremy forgave them.
Sustaining through shows Jesus walking alongside Jeremy until the problem was solved. He will do that for you, too. King David was always in trouble. Many Psalms he wrote show his struggles and disappointments. The opening Scripture shows David’s confidence, trust, and dependence on a God Who won’t stop short of achieving His purpose. David’s certain victory was due to:
1) Never doubting God’s purpose. The only sure way we can arrive at victory during trouble is to remain focused on the Lord, Who promises us good things. Sometimes, we must walk through trouble to claim victory—God’s purpose of our lives. It’s in the valleys we grow.
2) Reliance on God’s power. God will deliver us from troubles, but we must trust Him to sustain us through to victory. Jesus walks with us every step of the way.
3) Believing that God keeps promises. The opening Scripture, (and lesson in the link below), show David reminding himself of God’s faithfulness. When people choose one inspirational passage of Scripture that anchors them to God’s promise, it will remind, encourage and sustain them through trouble.
Take Home Nugget
What’s more, God takes full responsibility for accomplishing His purpose through whatever problems we face. Your job is to believe that He will fulfill His purpose in your life. Your job is to trust that God keeps every promise in the Bible.
Biblical truths are our most prized possession. Nothing equals God’s help found in the Bible.
When trouble calls on you, call on God.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Sustain Through
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Thanks, Yahweh-Yireh
THANKS, YAHWEH-YIREH
Psalm 36
Vv. 7-8: “How priceless is Your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of Your wings. They feast on the abundance of Your house; You give them drink from Your river of delights.”
The “Horn of Plenty” is the symbol of abundance. Stuffed inside is a bounty of fruit and vegetables. Yahweh-Yireh is a name for God that means, The Lord will provide. “Thanksgiving” is an annual holiday in the United States that celebrates gratitude for God’s abundance.
Over one hundred people, fleeing harsh labor under grueling conditions, landed at Cape Cod, Massachusetts on December 21, 1620. Half of them died that first harsh winter, yet no one boarded the Mayflower for the nine-week return to England.
One Native American named Squanto taught the Pilgrims how to grow corn, stalk deer, and catch fish. The governor of Plymouth, William Bradford, proclaimed a day of thanksgiving to God after their first harvest. They invited their red-skinned friends to their feast. Squanto brought food to share. The people ran races, and challenged each other using bows and arrows and muskets.
Sharing food with people after settling into a new place is a hospitality that survives today as a “getting-to-know-you” tradition. This charitable hospitality inspires friendship (1 Peter 4:9).
Yahweh-Yireh provides gifts every day, which we often overlook. We pray for “daily bread” in “The Lord’s Prayer,” while ignoring the starving multitudes. (Not everyone in the world eats even one meal a day). Living in plenty, people tend to take food for granted—until their food runs out. “And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 promise defines Yahweh-Yireh.
But we serve a God of abundance!
Abundance is different than meeting needs. Abundance sings to our hearts. The beauty of a bowl of colorful fruit on a dining room table invites people to sit down and eat. Add flowers. Waft in the smells of a roasting turkey, corn, and pumpkin pie. Bright red cranberry salad sprinkles color. Imagine people occupying chairs lining all sides of the table set with napkins, plates and utensils.
Then light the green candles.
Oh my! Abundance is the generosity of God. Psalm 23:5 says He makes our cup overflow. Ephesians 3:20 says He “is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think.” Jude:2 encourages, “To those who have been called, who are loved by God the Father and kept by Jesus Christ: Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.”
Take Home Nugget
May we never take Yahweh-Yireh’s provisions for granted. May we thank Him now, and then thank Him for His abundant gifts each day.
Let us keep praising God from whom all blessings flow!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Thanks to Yahweh-Yireh
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Psalm 36
Vv. 7-8: “How priceless is Your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of Your wings. They feast on the abundance of Your house; You give them drink from Your river of delights.”
The “Horn of Plenty” is the symbol of abundance. Stuffed inside is a bounty of fruit and vegetables. Yahweh-Yireh is a name for God that means, The Lord will provide. “Thanksgiving” is an annual holiday in the United States that celebrates gratitude for God’s abundance.
Over one hundred people, fleeing harsh labor under grueling conditions, landed at Cape Cod, Massachusetts on December 21, 1620. Half of them died that first harsh winter, yet no one boarded the Mayflower for the nine-week return to England.
One Native American named Squanto taught the Pilgrims how to grow corn, stalk deer, and catch fish. The governor of Plymouth, William Bradford, proclaimed a day of thanksgiving to God after their first harvest. They invited their red-skinned friends to their feast. Squanto brought food to share. The people ran races, and challenged each other using bows and arrows and muskets.
Sharing food with people after settling into a new place is a hospitality that survives today as a “getting-to-know-you” tradition. This charitable hospitality inspires friendship (1 Peter 4:9).
Yahweh-Yireh provides gifts every day, which we often overlook. We pray for “daily bread” in “The Lord’s Prayer,” while ignoring the starving multitudes. (Not everyone in the world eats even one meal a day). Living in plenty, people tend to take food for granted—until their food runs out. “And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 promise defines Yahweh-Yireh.
But we serve a God of abundance!
Abundance is different than meeting needs. Abundance sings to our hearts. The beauty of a bowl of colorful fruit on a dining room table invites people to sit down and eat. Add flowers. Waft in the smells of a roasting turkey, corn, and pumpkin pie. Bright red cranberry salad sprinkles color. Imagine people occupying chairs lining all sides of the table set with napkins, plates and utensils.
Then light the green candles.
Oh my! Abundance is the generosity of God. Psalm 23:5 says He makes our cup overflow. Ephesians 3:20 says He “is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all we ask or think.” Jude:2 encourages, “To those who have been called, who are loved by God the Father and kept by Jesus Christ: Mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance.”
Take Home Nugget
May we never take Yahweh-Yireh’s provisions for granted. May we thank Him now, and then thank Him for His abundant gifts each day.
Let us keep praising God from whom all blessings flow!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Thanks to Yahweh-Yireh
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, November 16, 2012
Approved of God
APPROVED OF GOD
2 Timothy 2:2-14
V. 15: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
“Did you shut the guys up on the school bus today?” Brad asked Jeremy as the ten year old boys jogged to football practice after school.
“Maybe,” Jeremy answered. (See Hope of Relief and Heaviest Burden devotions). “They don’t bother me anymore.”
“Wow! How did that happen?” Brad wondered.
As they began stretching, Jeremy said, “I just asked Jesus to help me, and He did.”
Brad’s eyes grew wide. He asked, “That fast? What did you do?”
“I just told them to have a great day.”
“No way!” Brad insisted. You wanted to deck them last week.”
Jeremy finished his push ups, and spoke softly to Brad, “Some voice said to forgive them. I think that was Jesus, or the Holy Spirit. Because I also heard, ‘I got this, Bro.’”
“You’re crazy, Jerm!” Brad said, shaking his head. “Jesus doesn’t talk to us!”
Chuckling, Jeremy admitted, “It does sound weird, but I know it was God. Didn’t Jesus tell His disciples that He would come to them, not leave them as orphans, before He ascended to heaven?” (John 14:18).
If we believe that God doesn’t speak to us, why would we expect God to answer prayers? Apostle Paul stopped persecuting early Christians—only to preach the gospel of Christ—after Jesus spoke to him (Acts 9:4-6). Prayer isn’t a one-way street; it intends to build a dynamic relationship with God.
Indeed, God answers prayer.
God can deliver His message to us through people. God’s kids represent Him to the world, so we shouldn’t be surprised if some advice comes from God through another. Most times, God speaks to us in the Bible. This is why we must never distort the Bible’s words to support a personal plan.
God’s Spirit gives us understanding and wisdom, interpreting difficult passages for us, when we study the Bible. As God’s kid, Jeremy is His approved worker. Jeremy represents God’s nature to the world.
If we misrepresent His Word, we misrepresent God, Himself!
Take Home Nugget
We should never be ashamed that our words and actions demonstrate Christ to the watching world. When God speaks, people know for sure Who’s speaking. When God “speaks” through His Word, He provides opportunities for us to represent Scripture as mirrors of His heart—one of our greatest privileges!
Holy Father, thank You for giving me Your Word and Spirit to guide my life. I “hear” You directing my life in many ways. May I represent Your Word and character accurately to the world by what I say and do! Amen.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Approved of God
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
2 Timothy 2:2-14
V. 15: “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth.”
“Did you shut the guys up on the school bus today?” Brad asked Jeremy as the ten year old boys jogged to football practice after school.
“Maybe,” Jeremy answered. (See Hope of Relief and Heaviest Burden devotions). “They don’t bother me anymore.”
“Wow! How did that happen?” Brad wondered.
As they began stretching, Jeremy said, “I just asked Jesus to help me, and He did.”
Brad’s eyes grew wide. He asked, “That fast? What did you do?”
“I just told them to have a great day.”
“No way!” Brad insisted. You wanted to deck them last week.”
Jeremy finished his push ups, and spoke softly to Brad, “Some voice said to forgive them. I think that was Jesus, or the Holy Spirit. Because I also heard, ‘I got this, Bro.’”
“You’re crazy, Jerm!” Brad said, shaking his head. “Jesus doesn’t talk to us!”
Chuckling, Jeremy admitted, “It does sound weird, but I know it was God. Didn’t Jesus tell His disciples that He would come to them, not leave them as orphans, before He ascended to heaven?” (John 14:18).
If we believe that God doesn’t speak to us, why would we expect God to answer prayers? Apostle Paul stopped persecuting early Christians—only to preach the gospel of Christ—after Jesus spoke to him (Acts 9:4-6). Prayer isn’t a one-way street; it intends to build a dynamic relationship with God.
Indeed, God answers prayer.
God can deliver His message to us through people. God’s kids represent Him to the world, so we shouldn’t be surprised if some advice comes from God through another. Most times, God speaks to us in the Bible. This is why we must never distort the Bible’s words to support a personal plan.
God’s Spirit gives us understanding and wisdom, interpreting difficult passages for us, when we study the Bible. As God’s kid, Jeremy is His approved worker. Jeremy represents God’s nature to the world.
If we misrepresent His Word, we misrepresent God, Himself!
Take Home Nugget
We should never be ashamed that our words and actions demonstrate Christ to the watching world. When God speaks, people know for sure Who’s speaking. When God “speaks” through His Word, He provides opportunities for us to represent Scripture as mirrors of His heart—one of our greatest privileges!
Holy Father, thank You for giving me Your Word and Spirit to guide my life. I “hear” You directing my life in many ways. May I represent Your Word and character accurately to the world by what I say and do! Amen.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Approved of God
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Heaviest Burden
HEAVIEST BURDEN
Isaiah 53:6
“We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each one of us to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him [Jesus] the iniquity of us all.”
As soon as ten year old Jeremy got on the school bus, three twelve year old boys ripped into him.
“What’re you wearing, Jeremy?”
“Can’t you find something better to wear than an old wind-breaker?”
“You look ridiculous, Jeremy!”
Jeremy walked past them, and sat down further in the back. He clamped his mouth shut, determined to ignore their mocking. He looked outside the bus window. Hope of Relief devotion showed Jesus offering His yoke to carry our burdens, so they don’t weigh us down. Life’s burdens are heavy. We rarely can manage them on our own strength. Weary, we often give up. Jesus offers to carry our heavy burdens and replaces worry with peace. Jeremy accepted Jesus’ “yoke.”
Jeremy’s angry. He wants to spit back insults. He wants to hurt them like they hurt him. He knows that his exploding heart is filled with hate. Hating others is sin. So he decided to keep quiet and act cool today. Feeling hopeless, Jeremy prayed, I promised You that I wouldn’t yell back at them today, Lord. Please help me. What can I do?
Jeremy’s heart stilled. He heard, I got this, Bro. Now, forgive them.
Jeremy gulped. Forgive? He thought-asked.
Jeremy’s heart heard plainly, Forgive them as I forgave you, Jeremy!
OK Lord, I forgive them, Jeremy thought.
Of all the problems that weigh us down, sin is the heaviest burden of all.
Holiness and sin cannot survive inside the same body. God’s Holy Spirit provides Jeremy, and us, the strength to resist sin. People have been asking for help to avoid sin since Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:6).
Our heavenly Father knew only one way for us to live at peace when surrounded by sin. He sent His Son Jesus to us as a human/God baby. Jesus grew up the same as we do. He lived without sin, and then He died on the cross as payment for our sins. He understands that sin is the heaviest burden of all.
When people believe in Jesus, the indwelling Holy Spirit strengthens them. The opening Scripture compares us to sheep that wander off in our own ways. Our Shepherd Jesus, willingly paid the price for our sins, and helps us whenever we ask.
Take Home Nugget
Jeremy said to the boys when he exited the school bus, “Have a great day, guys!” Immediately, Jeremy’s heart filled up with peace, and he smiled.
Sin always finds a doorway to enter; God’s Spirit gives us strength to close that door.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Heaviest Burden
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Isaiah 53:6
“We all, like sheep, have gone astray, each one of us to his own way; and the Lord has laid on Him [Jesus] the iniquity of us all.”
As soon as ten year old Jeremy got on the school bus, three twelve year old boys ripped into him.
“What’re you wearing, Jeremy?”
“Can’t you find something better to wear than an old wind-breaker?”
“You look ridiculous, Jeremy!”
Jeremy walked past them, and sat down further in the back. He clamped his mouth shut, determined to ignore their mocking. He looked outside the bus window. Hope of Relief devotion showed Jesus offering His yoke to carry our burdens, so they don’t weigh us down. Life’s burdens are heavy. We rarely can manage them on our own strength. Weary, we often give up. Jesus offers to carry our heavy burdens and replaces worry with peace. Jeremy accepted Jesus’ “yoke.”
Jeremy’s angry. He wants to spit back insults. He wants to hurt them like they hurt him. He knows that his exploding heart is filled with hate. Hating others is sin. So he decided to keep quiet and act cool today. Feeling hopeless, Jeremy prayed, I promised You that I wouldn’t yell back at them today, Lord. Please help me. What can I do?
Jeremy’s heart stilled. He heard, I got this, Bro. Now, forgive them.
Jeremy gulped. Forgive? He thought-asked.
Jeremy’s heart heard plainly, Forgive them as I forgave you, Jeremy!
OK Lord, I forgive them, Jeremy thought.
Of all the problems that weigh us down, sin is the heaviest burden of all.
Holiness and sin cannot survive inside the same body. God’s Holy Spirit provides Jeremy, and us, the strength to resist sin. People have been asking for help to avoid sin since Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden (Genesis 3:6).
Our heavenly Father knew only one way for us to live at peace when surrounded by sin. He sent His Son Jesus to us as a human/God baby. Jesus grew up the same as we do. He lived without sin, and then He died on the cross as payment for our sins. He understands that sin is the heaviest burden of all.
When people believe in Jesus, the indwelling Holy Spirit strengthens them. The opening Scripture compares us to sheep that wander off in our own ways. Our Shepherd Jesus, willingly paid the price for our sins, and helps us whenever we ask.
Take Home Nugget
Jeremy said to the boys when he exited the school bus, “Have a great day, guys!” Immediately, Jeremy’s heart filled up with peace, and he smiled.
Sin always finds a doorway to enter; God’s Spirit gives us strength to close that door.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Heaviest Burden
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Hope of Relief
HOPE OF RELIEF
Matthew 11:28-30
V. 29: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
“I just can’t take it anymore!” Jeremy shouted to his classmate, Brad, at recess from fifth grade.
“What’s wrong, Jerm?”
“Every day, I must deal with guys who make fun of me on the school bus.”
Life is hard. We get that. Lots of people face daily challenges. Many fight just to stay in their homes, or keep their jobs. There are people living on the street with little kids. People are hungry. Tons of people have no health care insurance, and remain sick.
And yet, Brad is concerned with his friend’s problem. God is concerned, too. We often attempt living on our own strength, and we grow weary from the stress and strain. Before we exhaust every drop of human strength, why don’t we accept Jesus’ offer? Help is as close as trusting Jesus with our burdens in prayer. Did you know that one definition of “burden” is yoke? No kidding. Hope of relief for trouble is real.
When we lift our troubles up to God, we feel immediate relief. God never intended for His kids to be bogged down by the weight of problems. Jesus knew first-hand how difficult life would be for us. As your Brother and Friend, Jesus wants to help. Remember, He is human, too. The trick is to remember to pray before you collapse from exhaustion. The opening Scripture gives us assurance that relief from burdens is real in Christ.
Yet, how many times do we try everything possible to solve problems before we pray? Whatever seems impossible to solve, trusting God to handle it is always the best choice. It’s easier than we think. We just swallow our pride and acknowledge our trouble to God in prayer. Identify it. Admit that it’s a problem that we cannot fix. Ask God for help. Then leave the problem in His capable hands.
Perfect faith ends the prayer with thanks. Even though we’re tempted to reclaim the trouble, leave it with God! Thank Him for relieving your burden. God’s peace replaces worry when you trust and thank Him.
Take Home Nugget
After we stand up from kneeling in prayer, we may wonder how Jesus is going to handle our troubles. Will He provide us a miracle? Never underestimate the miracle of transforming you or your circumstances, even if the trouble remains awhile longer.
Let it go. God’s got this. That’s real relief! Would the guys on Jeremy’s school bus stop making fun of him if he’d just ignore them—their fun silenced?
Pride hinders faith, but trusting God brings confidence.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Hope of Relief
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.BibleStudyForKids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Matthew 11:28-30
V. 29: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
“I just can’t take it anymore!” Jeremy shouted to his classmate, Brad, at recess from fifth grade.
“What’s wrong, Jerm?”
“Every day, I must deal with guys who make fun of me on the school bus.”
Life is hard. We get that. Lots of people face daily challenges. Many fight just to stay in their homes, or keep their jobs. There are people living on the street with little kids. People are hungry. Tons of people have no health care insurance, and remain sick.
And yet, Brad is concerned with his friend’s problem. God is concerned, too. We often attempt living on our own strength, and we grow weary from the stress and strain. Before we exhaust every drop of human strength, why don’t we accept Jesus’ offer? Help is as close as trusting Jesus with our burdens in prayer. Did you know that one definition of “burden” is yoke? No kidding. Hope of relief for trouble is real.
When we lift our troubles up to God, we feel immediate relief. God never intended for His kids to be bogged down by the weight of problems. Jesus knew first-hand how difficult life would be for us. As your Brother and Friend, Jesus wants to help. Remember, He is human, too. The trick is to remember to pray before you collapse from exhaustion. The opening Scripture gives us assurance that relief from burdens is real in Christ.
Yet, how many times do we try everything possible to solve problems before we pray? Whatever seems impossible to solve, trusting God to handle it is always the best choice. It’s easier than we think. We just swallow our pride and acknowledge our trouble to God in prayer. Identify it. Admit that it’s a problem that we cannot fix. Ask God for help. Then leave the problem in His capable hands.
Perfect faith ends the prayer with thanks. Even though we’re tempted to reclaim the trouble, leave it with God! Thank Him for relieving your burden. God’s peace replaces worry when you trust and thank Him.
Take Home Nugget
After we stand up from kneeling in prayer, we may wonder how Jesus is going to handle our troubles. Will He provide us a miracle? Never underestimate the miracle of transforming you or your circumstances, even if the trouble remains awhile longer.
Let it go. God’s got this. That’s real relief! Would the guys on Jeremy’s school bus stop making fun of him if he’d just ignore them—their fun silenced?
Pride hinders faith, but trusting God brings confidence.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Hope of Relief
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.BibleStudyForKids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Squandered Blessings
SQUANDERED BLESSINGS
1 Corinthians 10:1-13
V. 6: “Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they [the Israelites, our forefathers] did.”
Our forefathers, the Israelites who were once slaves in Egypt (Exodus 3-12), had to learn how to live victoriously as free people. (They wrote the book on sin). See the lesson, linked below, to see that freedom unleashed them to live exactly as they wanted. Disobedience to God’s commands cost many their lives. Too many never understood how to live victoriously.
But we can. If you want to, you will.
Idolatry, immorality, and grumbling were sins that brought them down. Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 10:12, “So if you think you’re standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” Six year old Levi thought that he was “all that” and got embarrassed at his school’s Halloween parade. (See Substitution=Disobedience devotion). People often act proud and arrogant when disobeying rules.
It seems that humans have rebellion and defying authority down pat. God called His chosen people (the Israelites), “stiff-necked.” This means that they always wanted things their way. They resisted obeying rules—regardless of the penalty. Moses agreed with God about his people when he prayed in Exodus 34:9, “‘O Lord, if I have found favor in Your eyes,’ he said, ‘then let the Lord go with us. Although this is a stiff-necked people, forgive our wickedness and our sin, and take us to Your inheritance.’”
Nothing like being called out, tattle-tailed to God about being rebellious, defiant, and unruly! The Israelites turned their backs on God when He was leading them to their Promised Land, and Moses needed God’s help. Who brought them out of slavery?
The online publication, 24/7 Wall St. posted, “The 100 Least Powerful People in the World.” (Fall, 2012). Many once famous or powerful people (corporate executives, politicians, sports figures, celebrities), fell into disgrace. Some were victims, some made poor business decisions, but others failed the moral test.
Does the Israelites’ idolatry, immorality, or grumbling remind you of you?
Is anything more important than God in your life? You’re guilty of idolatry. Is outward looks more important than inner beauty to you? Face your morality issues. Do you easily find fault with stuff? Quit complaining! God wants you to live victoriously.
Take Home Nugget
Share the secret Apostle Paul taught the Corinthians: “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide you a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:12-13. Emphasis added.
You’ll never go wrong when following God’s lead.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Squandered Blessings
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.BibleStudyForKids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
1 Corinthians 10:1-13
V. 6: “Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they [the Israelites, our forefathers] did.”
Our forefathers, the Israelites who were once slaves in Egypt (Exodus 3-12), had to learn how to live victoriously as free people. (They wrote the book on sin). See the lesson, linked below, to see that freedom unleashed them to live exactly as they wanted. Disobedience to God’s commands cost many their lives. Too many never understood how to live victoriously.
But we can. If you want to, you will.
Idolatry, immorality, and grumbling were sins that brought them down. Apostle Paul says in 1 Corinthians 10:12, “So if you think you’re standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!” Six year old Levi thought that he was “all that” and got embarrassed at his school’s Halloween parade. (See Substitution=Disobedience devotion). People often act proud and arrogant when disobeying rules.
It seems that humans have rebellion and defying authority down pat. God called His chosen people (the Israelites), “stiff-necked.” This means that they always wanted things their way. They resisted obeying rules—regardless of the penalty. Moses agreed with God about his people when he prayed in Exodus 34:9, “‘O Lord, if I have found favor in Your eyes,’ he said, ‘then let the Lord go with us. Although this is a stiff-necked people, forgive our wickedness and our sin, and take us to Your inheritance.’”
Nothing like being called out, tattle-tailed to God about being rebellious, defiant, and unruly! The Israelites turned their backs on God when He was leading them to their Promised Land, and Moses needed God’s help. Who brought them out of slavery?
The online publication, 24/7 Wall St. posted, “The 100 Least Powerful People in the World.” (Fall, 2012). Many once famous or powerful people (corporate executives, politicians, sports figures, celebrities), fell into disgrace. Some were victims, some made poor business decisions, but others failed the moral test.
Does the Israelites’ idolatry, immorality, or grumbling remind you of you?
Is anything more important than God in your life? You’re guilty of idolatry. Is outward looks more important than inner beauty to you? Face your morality issues. Do you easily find fault with stuff? Quit complaining! God wants you to live victoriously.
Take Home Nugget
Share the secret Apostle Paul taught the Corinthians: “No temptation has seized you except what is common to man. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, He will also provide you a way out so that you can stand up under it.” 1 Corinthians 10:12-13. Emphasis added.
You’ll never go wrong when following God’s lead.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Squandered Blessings
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.BibleStudyForKids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Conditional Blessings
CONDITIONAL BLESSINGS
Deuteronomy 30:15-20
Vv. 17-18a: “But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed.”
Obedience to God often is the difference between life and death. No joke.
Substitution=Disobedience devotion lesson showed that God ripped Saul’s kingdom away because of his disobedience. To compare, first grader, Levi, was only embarrassed when he tried taking more than one piece of candy from the Halloween treats barrel. His teacher could have demanded more for his disobedience. (Take a note home for a parent’s signature, or write down, “I will not take more than one piece of candy,” one hundred times, for example). But she showed Levi mercy.
Kids understand all about family rules. Some teach: like keeping one’s room straight, mowing the lawn, or washing the dishes. Family rules are for kids’ best welfare. “Come inside as soon as it gets dark” shows a parent’s concern for the child’s safety.
Teenagers learn curfew [KER-fu] is the time kids are to be home. Parents set curfew times to prevent late-night unsupervised temptations, (most sins happen under cover of night). While most family rules aren’t conditional—kids eat food and have clothes to wear even when they’re disobedient, other rules hinge on specific obedience: “You may not drive the car if you don’t pass driver’s education,” for example.
Kids usually complain about the chores parents assign. But they know their obedience makes parents happy, ensuring a peaceful home. When kids grow up, they realize that parent’s rules were pretty easygoing. Obedience was mostly painless. They realize that many rules protected themselves from harm. And, the stricter the family rule, the more it protects children from their own mischief! People realize the extent of parent’s mercy when raising their own kids.
God’s condition of obedience to realize blessings (for the Israelites) was: ”Be careful to obey all these regulations I am giving you, so that it [living in the Promised Land] may go well with you and your children after you.” (Deuteronomy 12:28). Those who think that the Bible contains too many rules, don’t see God’s mercy in His commands—always for our own good.
Whenever we obey, God blesses generously, abundantly. The opening Scripture links obedience to life.
Take Home Nugget
The Bible lists God’s family rules. Book of Instruction Before Leaving Earth is a handy way to remember that the Bible is must-reading for God’s kids to live victoriously now, and through eternity. No joke.
J.D. Griffith
Then let me love my Bible more
And take a fresh delight
By day to read these wonders o’er
And meditate at night.
Watts
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Conditional Blessings
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.BibleStudyForKids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Deuteronomy 30:15-20
Vv. 17-18a: “But if your heart turns away and you are not obedient, and if you are drawn away to bow down to other gods and worship them, I declare to you this day that you will certainly be destroyed.”
Obedience to God often is the difference between life and death. No joke.
Substitution=Disobedience devotion lesson showed that God ripped Saul’s kingdom away because of his disobedience. To compare, first grader, Levi, was only embarrassed when he tried taking more than one piece of candy from the Halloween treats barrel. His teacher could have demanded more for his disobedience. (Take a note home for a parent’s signature, or write down, “I will not take more than one piece of candy,” one hundred times, for example). But she showed Levi mercy.
Kids understand all about family rules. Some teach: like keeping one’s room straight, mowing the lawn, or washing the dishes. Family rules are for kids’ best welfare. “Come inside as soon as it gets dark” shows a parent’s concern for the child’s safety.
Teenagers learn curfew [KER-fu] is the time kids are to be home. Parents set curfew times to prevent late-night unsupervised temptations, (most sins happen under cover of night). While most family rules aren’t conditional—kids eat food and have clothes to wear even when they’re disobedient, other rules hinge on specific obedience: “You may not drive the car if you don’t pass driver’s education,” for example.
Kids usually complain about the chores parents assign. But they know their obedience makes parents happy, ensuring a peaceful home. When kids grow up, they realize that parent’s rules were pretty easygoing. Obedience was mostly painless. They realize that many rules protected themselves from harm. And, the stricter the family rule, the more it protects children from their own mischief! People realize the extent of parent’s mercy when raising their own kids.
God’s condition of obedience to realize blessings (for the Israelites) was: ”Be careful to obey all these regulations I am giving you, so that it [living in the Promised Land] may go well with you and your children after you.” (Deuteronomy 12:28). Those who think that the Bible contains too many rules, don’t see God’s mercy in His commands—always for our own good.
Whenever we obey, God blesses generously, abundantly. The opening Scripture links obedience to life.
Take Home Nugget
The Bible lists God’s family rules. Book of Instruction Before Leaving Earth is a handy way to remember that the Bible is must-reading for God’s kids to live victoriously now, and through eternity. No joke.
J.D. Griffith
Then let me love my Bible more
And take a fresh delight
By day to read these wonders o’er
And meditate at night.
Watts
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Conditional Blessings
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.BibleStudyForKids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
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