Printable Daily Devotions for the Deaf - Deaf Missions

Daily Devotions
for the Deaf
Volume 35 May, June, July, August 2014 Issue 2
Editor-in-chief: Chad Entinger
Editor: Jo Krueger
Assistant Editor: Mavis Brink
Illustrators: Dixie Burkum, Graham Burkum,
Beti Keller, Matt Keller and Michaelle
McCullough
Layout: Alicia Kraft
Printing Team: Bill Pike and
Perfection Press, Logan, Iowa
DAILY DEVOTIONS FOR THE DEAF (ISSN 0744-9100) is published every
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at Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501. Copyright © 2013. Printed in the United States.
Scripture quotations, except where noted elsewhere, are from The Holy Bible:
Easy-to-Read Version (formerly English Version for the Deaf), published by World
Bible Translation Center, Inc. Copyright © 1987, 1999, 2006, 2010 by World
Bible Translation Center, Inc., Fort Worth, Texas 76182. Used by permission.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Deaf Missions, 21199
Greenview Road, Council Bluffs, Iowa 51503-4190.

Peter (1)
Bible Reading: Acts 2:14-41
Today and
the next few
days, we will
learn about
Peter, what
he did in the
book of Acts
and what we
can learn from him. Peter was one of
Jesus’ disciples.
After Jesus went to heaven and
Holy Spirit, Peter stood up with
the other eleven apostles. He
spoke loudly so that all the people
could hear him. Peter used verses
from the Old Testament when he
preached God’s message to the
people. He also talked about Jesus
dying on a cross, being buried and
then rising from the dead. Peter
challenged the people to repent and
be baptized.
Peter knew God’s Word. He
depended on God’s Word. You can
do the same. Study and learn God’s
Word. Then you will be prepared
to preach or teach God’s message
to others. And when you have
opportunities to share, depend on
Bible verses to guide the words you
sign or say. —CPE*
“You must depend on Christ only,
drawing life and strength from him.
Just as you were taught the truth,
continue to grow stronger in your
understanding of it.” Colossians 2:7a
Peter (2)
Bible Reading: Acts 3:1-10
One day
Peter and
John were on
their way to
the temple.
They saw a
man there
who had been
crippled all his life. The man begged
Peter and John for money.
Peter and John could have ignored
the man. What did they do Did
they stop and give the man some
money Peter and John did stop
and help the man. But they didn’t
give him money. Instead, they gave
the man something even better
than money! With the power of
Jesus, Peter lifted the man up and
immediately the man’s feet and legs
became strong. He began walking
and jumping and praising God!
Look for opportunities to help
someone in need today. If they ask
you for help, give them something
better — give them the Good News
about Jesus. Share with them that
Jesus died on a cross and rose
from the dead. Encourage them to
believe in and follow Jesus. Take
time to praise God, too. —CPE*
“He jumped up, stood on his feet,
and began to walk. He went into
the Temple area with them. He was
walking and jumping and praising
God.” Acts 3:8
PRAYER: Dear God, help me to be
like Peter. I want to depend on Your
Word when I teach others about
You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
2
PRAYER: Dear God, lead me to
someone who needs You today. I
want to share Your Good News with
others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thursday, May 1 Friday, May 2

Peter (3)
Bible Reading: Acts 3:11-26
Remember
yesterday’s
devotion
With the
power of
Jesus, Peter
healed a man
who had been
crippled. People were amazed and
did not understand how this could
happen. They wondered how Peter
had power to make the man walk.
Peter told the people that it was
God’s power that made the man
walk. In verse 16 of our Bible
Reading, Peter said, “This crippled
man was healed because we trusted
in Jesus. It was Jesus’ power that
made him well. You can see this man,
and you know him. He was made
completely well because of faith in
Jesus. You all saw it happen!”
Is God still powerful today Yes,
He is! Continue to believe in God
and trust in Him. Keep your faith in
Him. When you see or experience
God’s power in your life or another
person’s life, give Him praise and
honor. And tell others about the
power of God that you have seen or
experienced. —CPE*
“Jesus has the power of God. And his
power has given us everything we
need to live a life devoted to God. We
have these things because we know
him. Jesus chose us by his glory and
goodness.” 2 Peter 1:3
Peter (4)
Bible Reading: Acts 4:1-22
Some
Jewish people
were upset
with Peter
and John.
They did not
like Peter and
John telling
the Jews about Jesus and that people
will rise from the dead. Peter and
John were arrested and put in jail.
The next day, the leaders
questioned Peter and John in front
with the Holy Spirit. He was not
afraid to speak and answer the
questions.
Verse 13 of our Bible Reading
says, “The Jewish leaders understood
that Peter and John had no special
training or education. But they also
saw that they were not afraid to
speak. So the leaders were amazed.
They also realized that Peter and
John had been with Jesus.”
You do not need to have special
training to share Jesus with others.
How can you show people that you
have “been with Jesus” Spend time
in prayer. Read and study the Bible.
Then you will not be afraid to speak
or sign about Jesus. —CPE*
“But Peter and John answered them,
‘What do you think is right What
would God want Should we obey
you or God We cannot keep quiet.
We must tell people about what we
have seen and heard.’” Acts 4:19-20
PRAYER: Dear God, I know You are
still All-Powerful. I depend on Your
power today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
3
PRAYER: Dear God, give me
courage to share Your Word with
others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Saturday, May 3 Sunday, May 4

Peter (5)
Bible Reading: Acts 4:23-31
You might
remember
from
yesterday’s
devotion
what
happened
to Peter
and John. They were arrested and
questioned.
In today’s Bible Reading, we see
that the Jewish leaders let Peter and
John go free. Peter and John went
to their own group of believers.
What did they do when they were
all together They spent time in
prayer. Acts 4:31 tells us, “After the
believers prayed, the place where
they were meeting shook. They
and they continued to speak God’s
message without fear.”
Does God want us to pray today
Yes! Does God still answer prayers
today Yes! Are prayers still
powerful and effective Yes! Take
time today to pray and talk with
God. And when you are with other
Christians, spend time in prayer.
Depend on God and His power. Ask
Him to give you courage to speak
God’s message without fear. —CPE*
Peter (6)
Bible Reading: Acts 5:1-11
In today’s
Bible Reading,
Peter caught
a man and
his wife lying.
Ananias had
money from
land he had
sold, but he only gave part of the
money to the apostles. He kept some
of the money for himself. Peter
caught Ananias and rebuked him for
lying. Then Ananias died.
Three hours later, Ananias’
wife, Sapphira, lied to Peter. Peter
rebuked her, too, and she died. Both
Ananias and Sapphira thought they
could get away with lying. But they
were wrong.
People have said that “the truth
about lies is that they always come
back to haunt you.” If you tell a lie,
it will come back to hurt you. That
is what happened to Ananias and
Sapphira. They both died after they
lied!
Be careful what you sign or say to
others. Always tell the truth. Then
you don’t have to worry that what
you’ve signed or said will come back
to hurt you. Also, when you tell the
truth, others can trust you. —CPE*
“So always tell each other the wrong
things you have done. Then pray
for each other. Do this so that God
can heal you. Anyone who lives the
way God wants can pray, and great
things will happen.” James 5:16
PRAYER: God, I believe You are
real. I put my hope and trust in
You! In Jesus’ name. Amen.
4
“The Lord hates people who tell
lies, but he is pleased with those
who tell the truth.”
Proverbs 12:22
PRAYER: Dear God, I want to please
You. Also, I want other people to
trust me and what I sign or say to
them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Monday, May 5 Tuesday, May 6

Peter (7)
Bible Reading: Acts 12:6-17
Today’s
Bible Reading
reminds us
that praying
is a powerful
thing to do
and that God
answers
prayers! Peter was arrested and
put in jail again. He was bound with
two chains and heavily guarded.
Two soldiers were next to Peter
while he was sleeping, and other
soldiers guarded the jail door. It
seems like it would be impossible
for Peter to escape from jail!
A group of Christians were praying
for Peter. And God answered their
prayers! God sent an angel to lead
Peter out of jail. God rescued Peter
from the bad things that the Jewish
leaders were planning to do to him.
Peter went to the home of Mary, the
mother of John. The Christians there
saw how God had answered their
prayers! Peter told them how God’s
angel had brought him out of jail.
Remember that praying is
a powerful thing to do. And
remember that God always answers
prayer! When God answers your
prayers, tell others what God has
done. —CPE*
“Peter made a sign with his hand to tell
them to be quiet. He explained to them
how the Lord led him out of jail.”
Acts 12:17a
PRAYER: God, thank You for
reminding me to pray and to trust
that You will answer my prayers. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
Be Bold
Bible Reading: Acts 4:1-13
When I
was young,
I was very
timid and
shy. I wanted
people to
like me and
accept me. I
did not want to do things that made
other people upset with me.
Our Bible Reading shows us
that Peter and John were not like
that. They were very bold. They
preached about Jesus to the Jewish
leaders. Peter and John did not care
if the leaders became upset and
punished them.
Verse 13b tells us what the
Jewish leaders thought about Peter
and John. “They also realized that
Peter and John had been with Jesus.”
Peter and John had lived and
worked with Jesus. Jesus was real
to them. That’s why Peter and John
were able to speak boldly.
When I was convinced that I
needed Jesus as my Savior, I became
more bold. I knew that He would be
with me, help me and protect me.
Then I began to witness to others
about what Jesus had done for me.
I hope you will be bold for Jesus
today! —SH*
Have courage and be strong. Do
everything in love.”
1 Corinthians 16:13-14
PRAYER: Father, give me the
strength to be bold for You today. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
5
Wednesday, May 7 Thursday, May 8

Important Jobs
Bible Reading: Acts 6:1-7
Our Bible
Reading
today tells
us about a
problem in
the early
church. Some
of the widows
were not getting enough food. So
the apostles chose seven men to
make sure that the widows had
enough food.
People did many different jobs
in the early church. Some prayed
and taught God’s Word. Others
helped with the widows. And some
prepared the meals that they shared
together. All of these jobs were
important and helped the church to
grow.
It is the same with God’s church
today. Some people preach or teach.
Others help in the church nursery.
And some help people who are
sick or in prison. All of these jobs
are equally important for God’s
kingdom.
Every Christian needs to have a
job in their local church. Ask God to
love and wisdom as you serve.
—SH*
“The word of God was reaching
more and more people. The group
of followers in Jerusalem became
larger and larger.” Acts 6:7a
The Holy Spirit
Bible Reading: Acts 8:14-17
The
Good News
about Jesus
spread from
Jerusalem
throughout
Judea and
to Samaria.
Verse 14 of our Bible verses tells
us that “the people of Samaria had
accepted the word of God. So they
sent Peter and John to the people in
Samaria.”
When Peter and John arrived
in Samaria, they prayed that the
believers would receive special
power from the Holy Spirit. This
special power helped the Samaritan
Christians to convince people that
their message about Jesus was true.
When we become a Christian, we
receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
He comes to live in us and give us
understanding and strength. As
we grow spiritually, the Holy Spirit
helps us to obey God every day and
to share His message with other
people.
Rely on the Holy Spirit to give you
strength and encouragement today.
—SH*
“Peter said to them, ‘Change your
hearts and lives and be baptized, each
one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ.
Then God will forgive your sins, and
you will receive the gift of the Holy
Spirit.” Acts 2:38
PRAYER:
love and wisdom. And help me to
serve others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
6
PRAYER: Dear God, thank You for
giving me the Holy Spirit to guide
me each day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Friday, May 9 Saturday, May 10

God’s Power
Bible Reading: Acts 8:9-11,18-25
God warned
His people,
the Israelites,
not to have
anything to
do with things
from the devil.
Deuteronomy
18:10b-11 says, “Don’t try to learn
what will happen in the future by
talking to a fortune teller or by going
to a magician, a witch, or a sorcerer...
Don’t let any of your people become a
medium or a wizard.”
Our Bible Reading tells us about a
man named Simon who was “doing
magic and amazing all the people
of Samaria” (verse 9b). He saw
that Peter and John laid hands on
Christians and gave them special
powers through the Holy Spirit.
Simon wanted to have this power,
too, so he offered money to Peter
and John. But Peter rebuked Simon
and told him that he couldn’t “buy
God’s gift with money” (verse 20b).
Simon did not understand God’s
power. He thought that he could
buy it. Simon did not realize that
God freely gives His power and love
to those who believe and follow
Jesus.
God offers you His free gift of
salvation and eternal life. Have you
accepted His gift —SH*
“...God gives his people a free gift —
eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Romans 6:23b
Jesus is God’s Son
Bible Reading: Acts 9:17-22
Saul was a
Jewish man
who loved
God. But
he did not
believe that
Jesus was
God’s Son. So
Saul did bad things to people who
followed Jesus.
Acts, chapter 9, tells us that Jesus
talked to Saul. After that experience,
Saul knew for sure that Jesus was
God’s Son. Verse 20 tells us that then
Saul started telling other people,
“Jesus is the Son of God!”
The rest of the book of Acts tells
us about Saul’s ministry. Even
though he was beaten and put in
jail, he continued to tell people
about Jesus. Why did Saul do this
Because he was convinced that
Jesus was God’s Son and that He
offers salvation to all people.
Saul knew that God sent Jesus to
die for his sins. Do you believe that
Jesus died for your sins, too Then
be like Saul — share that message of
hope with people you meet today.
—SH*
“Yes, God loved the world so much that
he gave his only Son, so that everyone
who believes in him would not be lost
but have eternal life. God sent his Son
into the world. He did not send him to
judge the world guilty, but to save the
world through him.” John 3:16-17
PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your
free gift of salvation. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
7
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You for sending Jesus to die for me.
In His name. Amen.
Sunday, May 11 Monday, May 12

Change Your Heart
Bible Reading: Acts 8:9-11,18-25
A couple of
days ago we
talked about
Simon. He
was a man
who practiced
magic and
sorcery.
Simon saw Peter and John give the
Christians in Samaria God’s special
power. Simon wanted to give Peter
and John money to buy God’s power.
Simon did not understand God’s
power. Peter told Simon, “You
cannot share with us in this work.
Your heart is not right before God”
(verse 21). Then Peter told Simon
how he could be right with God.
“Change your heart! Turn away from
these evil thoughts” (verse 22a).
Maybe you are struggling with
some sin in your life today. Maybe
you realize that you have become
a slave to that sin. Don’t give up!
Follow Peter’s advice — change
your heart and turn away from your
sin.
Rely on God to change your heart
today. Be humble and let God help
you and mold you. He will remove
your sin and help you stand strong.
—DJH*
“Remove my sin and make me pure.
Wash me until I am whiter than
snow! God, create a pure heart
in me, and make my spirit strong
again.” Psalm 51:7,10
PRAYER: God, I confess my sins
to You. Forgive me and make me
clean again. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
8
Christian Example
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:13-16
I have
noticed that
sometimes
people doubt
what I say.
But they
almost always
believe what
I do! That’s why it is very important
for us to be a good Christian example
to other people.
In our Bible Reading today, Jesus
said, “You are the light that shines
for the world to see. Live so that
they will see the good things you do
and praise your Father in heaven”
(verses 14a and 16b). Sometimes
people will not take the time to read
the Bible and learn about God’s
love. But they will notice if we show
God’s love to them.
Maybe the only way some people
and happiness is to see those things
in your life. This happens when we
put our faith into action and really
love and help other people.
When other people watch you
today, what will they see Will they
see someone who loves God and
shares that love Be sure to be a
good Christian example every day!
—RK*
“You are the salt of the earth. But if
the salt loses its taste, it cannot be
made salty again. Salt is useless if it
loses its salty taste. It will be thrown
out where people will just walk on it.”
Matthew 5:13
PRAYER: Father, I want to share
Your love with others today. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
Tuesday, May 13 Wednesday, May 14

Serve Others
Bible Reading: Acts 9:36-42
Every day
God gives us
opportunities
to serve
Him. But
sometimes
we fail to
use those
opportunities to do good things for
Him. Then that opportunity is gone,
and we have missed out on serving
Him.
Our Bible verses today tell us
about Tabitha. She was a person
who used her opportunities to serve
God. At that time, all people made
their own clothes. So Tabitha’s
talent to make clothes was not
unusual. But she used that talent
to serve God and help needy
people. And Tabitha didn’t only
make clothes for people. Verse 36b
tells us that she was always “giving
money to those in need.”
God gave Tabitha opportunities
to help people. She did not ignore
those opportunities. Instead, she
blessed many people.
God will show you ways that you
can help people today. Use your
talents and your possessions to
serve others! —NW
“All the widows stood around him.
They were crying and showing him
the coats and other clothes that
Tabitha had made during her time
with them.” Acts 9:39b
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me
to be like Tabitha. I want to use my
life to serve others. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
9
Missionaries (1)
Bible Reading: Acts 14:8-18
The book
of Acts tells
us about the
missionaries
who spread
the news
about Jesus.
God has
blessed us with many opportunities
to travel to other countries to tell
deaf people about Jesus. Today and
for the next few days, we will share
some of our experiences with you.
Before we enter a foreign country,
into our luggage. Some customs
feel welcome in their country. But
our luggage. Before we go through
customs in a new country, we always
be friendly. We also pray that God
will help us witness to these people.
In our Bible Reading, Paul and
Barnabas traveled to the city of
Lystra. Some people were not
friendly to Paul and Barnabas. But
they did not stop telling people
about Jesus. We hope you will share
the Good News about Jesus today.
—DK/VLD
“God sent me to tell people about the
promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.”
2 Timothy 1:1b
PRAYER: God, I want to faithfully
serve You and Your kingdom. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thursday, May 15 Friday, May 16

Missionaries (2)
Bible Reading: Acts 12:1-10
We like
riding on
trains. We
have been on
trains in the
United States,
Thailand,
Romania,
Ukraine, Switzerland and Italy.
Some of the trains were fancy;
others were very plain. Some trains
had private seats while others had
one great big room shared by many
people. Many of the trains were very
crowded. Sometimes we had to hold
our luggage on our feet.
A couple of times we had to get off
trains in the middle of the night. It
was dark, and there was no one to
meet us at the train station. Some
people have asked us, “Were you
scared” Our answer was, “No!” We
always knew that God would protect
In our Bible verses we learn that
Peter was in jail. But he trusted God
to take care of him. God sent an
angel to help Peter get out of jail.
Maybe you are alone or afraid.
Remember that God is with you
right now. You can always trust
Him. —DK/VLD
“You can be sure that I will always be
with you. I will continue with
you until the end of the world.”
Matthew 28:20b
PRAYER: Father, thank You for
always being with me. Help me to
trust You in every situation today.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
10
Missionaries (3)
Bible Reading: Acts 2:5-11
In the
United States,
we use a
fork, a knife
and a spoon
when we
eat. People
all over the
world have different customs for the
way they eat.
In the Philippines, they eat rice
with their hands or a big spoon. In
Hong Kong, Japan and many other
Asian countries, people eat with
chopsticks. In some countries,
people hold their knife and fork
differently than we do in the United
States. Some people keep their
knife in their hand at all times. In
places like Uganda, Eritrea and
They use bread or meat as their
spoon.
There are different ways to eat,
but all people need to eat food. In
the same way, all people need God’s
spiritual food. This food comes
from God’s Word, the Bible.
Our Bible Reading today talks
about people from many different
countries. The apostles taught
these people about Jesus. It is our
job to teach other people about
Jesus, too. —DK/VLD
“So go and make followers of all
people in the world.”
Matthew 28:19a
PRAYER: Dear God, help me to
share Your Word with other people.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Saturday, May 17 Sunday, May 18

Missionaries (4)
Bible Reading: Acts 1:6-11
People
in different
countries
have many
ways to say
“hello” and
“good-bye.”
In Thailand,
Japan and other Asian cultures,
people bow when they greet
someone. If they bow very low,
that shows more respect. And a
young person will always bow when
meeting someone who is older.
In Mexico, girls may hug and kiss
another girl on the cheek. Men will
hug and kiss the cheek of another
man. In the Ukraine, people hug
and kiss both cheeks. Sometimes
they will kiss the same cheek twice!
In some countries, people shake
hands. To show respect in the
Philippines, a person takes the hand
of the person they are greeting,
bows and raises the other person’s
hand to their forehead.
Our Bible verses tell us about a
day when Jesus will come back to
take His followers to live with Hum.
I don’t know how we will greet
Jesus, but I do know that it will be
wonderful to see Him. We hope you
are looking forward to seeing Jesus!
—DK/VLD
“You saw Jesus carried away from
you into heaven. He will come back
in the same way you saw him go.”
Acts 1:11
Missionaries (5)
Bible Reading: Acts 2:42-47
Our Bible
Reading
today tells us
that the early
Christians
“were happy
to share their
food and ate
with joyful hearts” (verse 46b).
People all over the world have
different foods and eating customs.
When we return from a trip, people
always ask us what foods we ate.
Often we eat lots of rice, sometimes
every day! We also eat lots of chicken.
We have eaten quail eggs, caviar,
goat meat and giraffe meat. We have
also eaten many different kinds of
fruit: mango, passion fruit, durian,
coconuts, melons and many kinds of
bananas, pineapples and apples.
In many countries we drink tea.
Sometimes we have fruit drinks.
In one country, we participated in
a coffee ceremony. When people
prepared coffee in this special way,
they were showing honor to us.
Every country we have visited has
special foods that people like to eat.
Christians all over the world love to
share good food and fellowship. We
thank God for opportunities to eat
with Christians all over the world.
—DK/VLD
“The believers... shared with each
other. They ate together and prayed
together.” Acts 2:42
PRAYER: God, thank You for
salvation through Your Son, Jesus.
In His name. Amen.
11
PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father,
thank You for food to eat. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
Monday, May 19 Tuesday, May 20

Missionaries (6)
Bible Reading: Acts 20:7-12
Our Bible
verses for
today tell us
something
strange that
happened
when
Christians
were meeting together to hear Paul
preach.
In our travels, we have visited
many different kinds of church
meetings. Many churches in
Ukraine had no heat or water.
Sometimes we had to wear our
coats during the church service.
Other churches we visited had no
electricity or glass in the windows.
We met in a few churches that had
only one light bulb. And one time we
met in a small apartment to worship.
Why Because in that country it was
illegal to worship God.
Often we traveled a long way to
get to church. We walked or rode in
trains, subways, buses or cars. One
time we went to church by boat!
The places where Christians meet
are not important. It is important
that Christians meet together to
worship God and to encourage each
other. Thank God for the people
who worship with you. —DK/VLD
“‘On Sunday we met together to eat
the Lord’s Supper. Paul talked to the
group...he continued talking until
midnight.” Acts 20:7
Wonderful Blessings
Bible Reading: Psalm 144:9-15
God loves
us and
wants to
give us many
blessings.
In our Bible
verses today,
the writer
talks about the blessings that
God gave to him. Some of these
blessings were healthy families
(verse 12), good crops and animals
(verse 13) and protection from
enemies (verse 14).
God made a wonderful world
trees, a warm summer breeze and
a beautiful sunset. He gives us
healthy bodies and minds so that we
can serve Him. God also provides us
with a place to live and food to eat.
But the greatest blessing that God
gives us is salvation through Jesus.
When Jesus died on the cross, He
accepted the pain and punishment
that we deserve. Salvation is a
wonderful blessing from God!
Take time today to think about
the many ways that God blesses you.
Thank Him for these blessings. And
don’t forget to tell other people how
God takes care of you every day!
—RK*
“How wonderful to have such
blessings! Yes, great blessings belong
to those who have the Lord as their
God.” Psalm 144:15
PRAYER: God, thank You that we
can meet together and worship You.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
12
PRAYER: Father, thank You for the
many ways You bless me. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
Wednesday, May 21 Thursday, May 22

God Loves Everyone
Bible Reading: Acts 10:1-28
he worshiped God.
In our
Bible verses
today, we
learn about a
man named
Cornelius.
Cornelius was
not a Jew, but
One day Cornelius had a vision.
God told him to send some men to
traveling, Peter had a vision, too. He
of animals. Some of these animals
were not clean for Jewish people.
A voice told Peter, “Get up, Peter;
kill anything here and eat it” (verse
13b). This happened three times.
“Peter wondered what this vision
meant” (verse 17a).
Peter went to see Cornelius and
preached to people who were not
Jews. These people learned about
Jesus and were baptized in His name
(Acts 10:48). Peter understood that
his vision meant that God wants all
people to love and worship Him.
Sometimes we may meet people
who are different from us. Maybe
they don’t dress like we do or speak
the same language. But we need
to remember that God loves and
accepts them, too. —DJH*
“I really understand now that God
does not consider some people to
be better than others. He accepts
anyone who worships him and does
what is right.” Acts 10:34b-35a
PRAYER: God, thank You for loving
all people. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
13
Your Story
Bible Reading: Acts 15:3-12
In today’s
Bible Reading,
Paul and
Barnabas
were at a
meeting of
the apostles,
elders and
other members of the church in
Jerusalem. During this meeting,
Paul and Barnabas told the story of
how non-Jewish people had learned
about Jesus and believed in Him as
their Lord and Savior.
Paul and Barnabas shared about
all that God was doing through
them. The men “listened while Paul
and Barnabas told about all the
miraculous signs and wonders that
God had done through them among
the non-Jewish people” (verse 12b).
You can be like Paul and
Barnabas. You can tell people your
story. Your story may include how
you became a Christian and how
your life is different now. You can
even write down your story.
Telling your story to other people
can help them learn about salvation
through Jesus. Share your story
with someone today! —GT
“So go and make followers of all
people in the world. Baptize them in
the name of the Father, and the Son
and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to
obey everything that I have told you
to do.” Matthew 28:19-20a
PRAYER: Father, thank You for
giving me a story to share with
others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Friday, May 23 Saturday, May 24

God Answers Prayers
Bible Reading: Acts 12:6-17
I was
planning a
trip. So I
prayed that
God would
work out all
the details
so I could go
on the trip. I was amazed how God
made things happen so I could take
the trip.
Our Bible Reading tells us that
Peter was in jail. The believers
prayed that God would protect and
help Peter. They probably did not
think that God would send an angel
to lead Peter out of jail. So when
Peter appeared at the door of the
house where they were praying,
realized that it really was Peter, they
“were amazed” (verse 16b). Peter
explained how God had helped
him. Then he told the people to tell
“James and the other brothers what
happened” (verse 17b).
When God answers our prayers,
we should thank Him and tell other
people how God helped us. This
will help them understand that God
truly pays attention to our prayers
and answers them. —BH
“When Peter realized this, he went
to the home of Mary, the mother
of John, who was also called Mark.
Many people were gathered there
and were praying.” Acts 12:12
Ready to Help Us
Bible Reading: Psalm 46:1-11
When we
have a close
relationship
with another
person, we
may want to
be with them
all the time.
But usually that is not possible. A
child may want to always have his
mother close by to help him, but
there will be times when he will be
separated from his mother.
God is the only one who can
be with us every minute of every
day. Verse 1 of our Bible Reading
describes what God is like. “God
is our protection and source of
strength. He is always ready to help
us in times of trouble.”
One way to imagine this
relationship with God is to think
about Him as our shepherd. A
shepherd is always close to his
sheep. He is there to help them and
keep them out of danger. A good
shepherd provides food and water
for his sheep.
God provides for us and protects
us, too. Thank God today for being
your shepherd and for always being
ready to help you! —LL
“God says...’I am the one who defeats
the nations; I am the one who
controls the world.’ The Lord All-
Powerful is with us.”
Psalm 46:10-11a
PRAYER: Lord, thank You for
answering my prayers. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
PRAYER: Thank You, God, for
always being ready to help me. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
14
Sunday, May 25 Monday, May 26

Cities in Acts (1)
Bible Reading: Acts 2:36-47
The book
of Acts tells
us that
Peter, Paul
and other
Christians
traveled to
many cities to
tell about Jesus. Today we have cell
phones, the Internet and television
to help us spread the news about
something important. But when the
spread news about Jesus was by one
person telling another person.
If someone wanted a person in
another city to know about Jesus, that
person had to travel to the city. That
is exactly how the message about
Jesus spread from Jerusalem into
many areas of the Roman Empire.
Our Bible Reading today is
about the day the church started
in Jerusalem. Peter preached to a
large group of people. “On that day
about 3000 believers were added to
the group of believers” (verse 41b).
For the next few days we will look
at some of the cities were Jesus’
followers traveled, and we will learn
how God’s church grew and spread
around the world. —JK
“The believers praised God and were
respected by all the people. More and
more people were being saved every
day, and the Lord was adding them to
their group.” Acts 2:47
Cities in Acts (2)
Bible Reading: Acts 9:1-20
Damascus
was a city
about 150
miles from
Jerusalem.
Some
people from
Damascus
became Christians.
Saul, who was later called Paul,
was a Jew. He did not believe that
Jesus was God’s Son. Saul went to
Damascus to arrest Christians and
bring them back to Jerusalem. Our
Bible Reading tells us that while
Saul was traveling to Damascus, a
bright light shone on him, and God
spoke to him. “Saul got up from the
ground and opened his eyes, but he
could not see” (verse 8a).
In Damascus there was a Christian
named Ananias. Ananias went to see
Saul. “Immediately, something that
eyes. He was able to see! Then he
got up and was baptized” (verse 18).
Saul became a new man. He left his
old life of sin and started living for
Jesus. Later Saul traveled to many
places to tell others about Jesus.
Who will you tell about Jesus
today —JK
“And Saul became more and more
powerful in proving that Jesus is
the Messiah. His proofs were so
strong that the Jews who lived in
Damascus could not argue with him.”
Acts 9:22
PRAYER: Thank You, God, for Your
church and for Your Son, Jesus. In
His name. Amen.
PRAYER: Dear God, show me
someone that I can tell about Jesus.
In His name. Amen.
15
Tuesday, May 27 Wednesday, May 28

Cities in Acts (3)
Bible Reading: Acts 14:8-20
Lystra was
a city in the
area that we
call Turkey
today. Paul
and Barnabas
stopped in
that city to
tell the people about Jesus.
Our Bible Reading tells us that in
Lystra, Paul and Barnabas healed
a crippled man. When the people
saw that the man was healed, they
thought that Paul and Barnabas
were gods. “The people began to call
Barnabas ‘Zeus,’ and they called Paul
‘Hermes’” (verse 12a).
Paul and Barnabas were very
upset. They told the people of
Lystra that they were not gods.
They also told them, “Turn to the
true living God, the one who made
the sky, the earth, the sea, and
everything that is in them” (verse
15b). Then the people became angry
and tried to kill Paul. So Paul and
Barnabas left Lystra and went to
another city.
Maybe today you will tell
someone about Jesus, but they will
refuse to listen. Keep sharing the
news about Jesus with people who
want to follow Him. Ask God to help
you speak boldly for Him. —JK
“The Good News I have shared
about God’s kingdom will be told
throughout the world.”
Matthew 24:14a
Cities in Acts (4)
Bible Reading: Acts 16:20-34
In our Bible
verses today,
Paul and
Silas went
to the city of
Philippi. This
city was in
the area of
Macedonia in Greece.
While Paul and Silas were in
Philippi, they healed a girl who had
a spirit from the devil. The people
who had used the girl to make
money were upset. Paul and Silas
were beaten and thrown into jail.
“About midnight Paul and Silas
were praying and singing songs
to God...Suddenly there was an
earthquake...the doors of the jail
opened” (verses 25-26a). But Paul
and Silas did not leave the jail.
Instead they told the jailer and his
family about God. “Then the jailer
and all his people were baptized”
(verse 33b).
Paul and Silas were in jail — that
was a bad situation. But they still
praised God and shared the Good
News about Jesus. No matter what
happens to you today, remember to
always praise and serve God. —JK
“They said to him, ‘Believe in the
Lord Jesus and you will be saved —
you and all who live in your house.’
So Paul and Silas told the message
of the Lord to the jailer and all the
people who lived in his house.”
Acts 16:31-32
PRAYER: Father, help me to be bold
as I tell others about Jesus. In His
name. Amen.
16
PRAYER: Lord, I want to praise You
and serve You today. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Thursday, May 29 Friday, May 30

Cities in Acts (5)
Bible Reading: Acts 17:10-13
Today our
Bible Reading
tells us about
Paul and Silas
again. This
time they
traveled to
the city of
Berea. Berea was also in the area of
Macedonia.
Verse 11 tells us three things
about the people in Berea. They
were “open-minded” and “glad to
hear the message Paul told them.”
They also “studied the Scriptures
every day to make sure that what
they heard was really true.” What
was the result “...many of them
believed, including many important
Greek women and men” (verse 12).
These people in Berea are a good
example for us. We should always
be open-minded and happy to study
the Bible. And whenever someone
teaches us, we should make sure
that what they are teaching really
agrees with the Bible.
I hope you will be like the Bereans
today. Study God’s Word and obey
it! —JK
“What joy your commands give me!
How I love them! Not only do I love
your commands, but I also honor
them. I will study your laws.”
Psalm 119:47-48
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You for Your Word, the Bible. Help
me to learn from it and then share
Your message with others. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
17
Cities in Acts (6)
Bible Reading: Acts 20:7-12
In our
Bible verses
today, we
learn about
a miracle
that Paul
performed
in the city of
Troas. Troas was a city in Asia.
On a Sunday, Paul met together
with some Christians. They ate the
Lord’s Supper, and Paul preached
to them. “Because he was planning
to leave the next day, he continued
talking until midnight” (verse 7b).
There was a young man named
Eutychus in the group. Eutychus
was sitting in the window, and “he
went to sleep and fell out of the
window. He fell to the ground from
went down and lifted him up, he was
dead” (verse 9b).
Paul made Eutychus alive again.
“The Lord’s followers took Eutychus
home alive, and they were all greatly
comforted” (verse 12). God was
with Paul and gave Him the power
to perform miracles. Many of the
people who traveled and spread
God’s Word were able to do miracles.
These miracles helped the people
know that God’s message was true.
Thank God for His great power
today! —JK
“Many wonders and miraculous
signs were happening through the
apostles, and everyone felt great
respect for God.” Acts 2:43
PRAYER: God, thank You for being
so powerful. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Saturday, May 31 Sunday, June 1

Cities in Acts (7)
Bible Reading: Acts 28:10-31
The last
city we will
look at in
the book of
Acts is Rome.
Rome was
a very large
city and the
center of the Roman Empire. The
Roman emperors lived in Rome.
people who did not know about
Jesus, Paul wanted to go there.
Rome. He was under arrest and
in chains, but God gave him the
opportunity to preach in Rome.
While Paul was in Rome, he told
many people about Jesus. “He spoke
to them all day long, explaining
God’s kingdom to them. He used the
Law of Moses and the writings of the
prophets to persuade them to believe
in Jesus” (verse 23b). Paul was in
chains, but that did not stop him
from preaching about Jesus.
Sometimes we think that our
circumstances prevent us from
telling others about Jesus. But no
matter what happens to us or where
we are, we should continue talking
about Jesus. Will you be like Paul
today —JK
“He told them about God’s kingdom
and taught them about the Lord
Jesus Christ. He was very bold,
and no one tried to stop him from
speaking.” Acts 28:31
Change of Plans
Bible Reading: Acts 16:6-10
My friend
Carol had
cancer. I
planned to
visit her one
afternoon.
But then I
felt God saying to me, “Visit Gladys
instead.”
So I changed my plans and went
to visit Gladys at the hospital.
Her husband was very ill and not
expected to live. I hugged and
encouraged Gladys and told her
that I was praying for her and her
husband. The next morning, Gladys’
husband died. I was so thankful
that I had paid attention to God
urging me to visit Gladys.
In our Bible Reading, Paul tried to
go to Bithynia to preach about Jesus.
But, “the Spirit of Jesus did not let
them go there” (verse 7b). That
night Paul saw a vision of a man
from Macedonia. Then Paul knew
that God wanted him to change his
plans and go to Macedonia.
Pay attention to God’s plan for
your life. Obey Him and be willing
to change your own plans so others
will know about Jesus. —NM
“After Paul had seen the vision, we
immediately prepared to leave for
Macedonia. We understood that God
had called us to tell the Good News to
those people.” Acts 16:10
PRAYER: Father, be with me today
and help me to witness for You. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
PRAYER: Lord, I always want to
obey Your will. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
18
Monday, June 2 Tuesday, June 3

What is Love
Bible Reading: 1 John 4:7-21
Many
people today
ask the
question,
“What is
love” The
world offers
us many
different answers. But our Bible
verses today tell us what true love
is like.
True love is God’s love. These
verses tell us that God’s love is giving
(verse 10). It is perfect (verse 12),
trustworthy (verse 16) and without
fear (verse 17). We can see God’s
cross. “This is how God showed his
love to us: He sent his only Son into
the world to give us life through him”
(verse 9).
God’s love also sets an example
need to love Him. And then, if
we love God, we need to love our
brothers and sisters in Christ.
Many people in the world offer
a kind of love that can’t be trusted.
But we can always trust God’s love.
Accept God’s love today. He will
never fail you! —RK*
“So we know the love that God has for
us, and we trust that love. God is love.
Everyone who lives in love lives in
God, and God lives in them.”
1 John 4:16
Jesus is With Us
Bible Reading: Luke 8:22-25
We may
begin each
day with
a time of
prayer. And
maybe
we read a
devotion like
this one. But then throughout the
day, problems come up. We allow
ourselves to become worried and
afraid.
That is how Jesus’ followers felt in
our Bible Reading today. They were
in a boat with Jesus, sailing across
the lake. Jesus was asleep. Then a
“big storm blew across the lake, and
They were in danger” (verse 23b).
The followers woke Jesus up and
said (verse 24b), “Master! Master!
We will drown!” The followers were
upset. But where was Jesus He
was there with them. Jesus got
up and commanded the wind and
waves to stop.
When we become worried and
afraid, we sometimes forget that
Jesus is with us. Jesus was with His
followers, and He helped them. He
will help you today, too. —BH
“Jesus got up. He gave a command
to the wind and the waves. The wind
stopped, and the lake became calm.
He said to his followers, ‘Where is
your faith’” Luke 8:24b-25a
PRAYER: Dear God, I need You to
love me. Thank You for showing
Your love to me. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
PRAYER: Lord, help me to remember
that You are with me, even when I
am facing problems. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
19
Wednesday, June 4 Thursday, June 5

Ugly to Beautiful
Bible Reading: Acts 22:6-21
This
morning
there were
dark clouds
in the east.
The sun was
just beginning
to rise, but
ugly, jagged clouds hid the sunrise.
About 20 minutes later, I looked in
my rearview mirror to see one of the
most beautiful sunrises I had ever
seen! The white clouds were edged
with pink, blue, orange and purple.
It was awesome!
God changed an ugly sky into a
beautiful one. Only He can do that!
And only God can change an ugly life
of sin into a beautiful life of Christian
love and service. Our Bible Reading
today tells us what happened to Paul.
Paul loved God, but he did not believe
that Jesus was God’s Son. One day,
Jesus appeared to Paul, and Paul’s life
was changed. After that experience,
Paul followed and served Jesus.
Maybe you think that your life
can change that. He can forgive
your sins and make you one of His
children. Be like Paul. Ask God to
forgive you, be baptized and become
a new person in Christ. —JK
Missing Piece
Bible Reading: 2 Peter 1:5-9
I have a
clock that
stopped
working, so
it myself. I
carefully
replaced the
springs and gears and put it back
together. I wound it up and listened
for the ticking sound to start. There
was silence! I wondered what I
had done wrong. Then I saw a gear
clock would not work without that
missing piece.
Our Bible verses today list some
Christian qualities: faith, goodness,
knowledge, self-control, patience,
devotion to God, kindness and love.
Every Christian should want to have
these qualities. But sometimes we do
not have these things. Verse 9 tells
us that people who don’t have these
blessings “have forgotten that they
were cleansed from their past sins.”
My clock would not work without
the missing piece. In the same way,
my relationship with God will not
be right until I remember that He
has forgiven my sins. Think about
God’s forgiveness today, and focus
on being like Jesus. —BL
[Paul said,] “Here is a true statement
that should be accepted without
question: Christ Jesus came into the
world to save sinners, and I am the
worst of them.” 1 Timothy 1:15
PRAYER: God, forgive me and make
my life beautiful. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
20
“If all these things are in you and
growing, you will never fail to be
useful to God.” 2 Peter 1:8a
PRAYER: Dear God, I thank You for
forgiving my sins. Help me to focus
on praising You and being like Jesus.
In His name. Amen.
Friday, June 6 Saturday, June 7

Needs
Bible Reading: Acts 27:1-3
a healthy life.
All people
need food, a
place to live
and someone
to love them.
We must have
these things
so we can live
God has promised to give us
everything we need. Sometimes,
God gives us the ability to meet our
own needs. We work to earn money
to buy food, pay for our house and
buy clothes.
Often God uses other people to
provide for our needs. That is what
God did in today’s Bible Reading.
Verse 3b says, “Julius was very good
to Paul and gave him freedom to go
visit his friends there, who gave him
whatever he needed.”
All people have one need that
to love us, guide us, give us wisdom,
protect us and provide for us. It is
very important that we include God
in our lives.
Paul needed his friends’ help. But
Paul also knew that he needed God.
You need God, too. Tell God today
that you want Him to be the most
important part of your life. —GT
“My God will use his glorious riches
to give you everything you need. He
will do this through Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:19
Be Like God
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:43-48
Pablo
Casals was
a man who
played the
cello. Some
people think
that he was
the greatest
cellist who ever lived.
When Casals was 95 years old,
someone asked him why he still
practiced six hours a day. He replied,
“Because I think I am making
progress.” Casals knew that if he
was to be a great musician, he had
to continue learning and working
toward his goal of being perfect.
Verse 48 of our Bible Reading
says, “...you must be perfect, just as
your Father in heaven is perfect.”
This means that our goal in life is
to be like God. If we want to be
like God, we need to read His Word
and think about it. And we need to
learn about God’s love, patience and
righteousness.
Whether you are a new Christian
or someone who is spiritually
mature, don’t stop making progress.
Keep on studying and praying and
working toward the goal of being
like God. —BL
“But I tell you, love your enemies.
Pray for those who treat you badly. If
you do this, you will be children who
are truly like your Father in heaven.”
Matthew 5:44-45a
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I need
You in my life. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
PRAYER: God, I want to be like
You. Help me to continue loving and
serving You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
21
Sunday, June 8 Monday, June 9

God is With You
Bible Reading: Acts 21:7-14
Ron and his
wife, Sue, are
Christians.
Recently
they found
out that Ron
had terminal
cancer. Then
they learned that the farm they had
rented for forty years was to be
sold. Ron and Sue knew that they
live and that Ron might be forced
to retire early. But through these
trials, Ron and Sue remained strong
in their faith.
In our Bible Reading for today,
the prophet Agabus had told Paul
and his friends that Paul would be
arrested when he went to Jerusalem.
So Paul’s friends tried to stop him
from going to Jerusalem. But Paul
told his friends (verse 13), “Why are
you crying and making me feel so
sad I am willing to be put in jail in
Jerusalem. I am even ready to die for
the name of the Lord Jesus!”
Ron and Sue faced bad times, and
so did Paul. But they all knew that
God would be with them in every
situation. God is with you today,
too. Trust Him and His plan for
your life. —NM
“We could not persuade him to stay
away from Jerusalem. So we stopped
begging him and said, ‘We pray that
what the Lord wants will be done.’”
Acts 21:14
PRAYER: Lord, I know that You will
always be with me. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
22
Hope and Comfort
Bible Reading: 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17
Our Bible
Reading
today is part
of a letter
that Paul
wrote to the
Christians
in the city of
Thessalonica. In these verses, Paul
reminded the Thessalonians about
God’s love and salvation for them.
Paul also reminded them that
their salvation came “by the Spirit
making you holy by your faith in the
truth” (verse 13b). And Paul told
these Christians that God chose
them “so that you can share in the
glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” (verse
14b).
Next, Paul encouraged the
Thessalonian Christians. “So,
brothers and sisters, stand strong and
continue to believe the teachings we
gave you when we were there and
by letter” (verse 15). Finally, Paul
reminded these people about God’s
love, grace, hope and comfort.
If you are a Christian, you have
all these wonderful blessings that
Paul talked about. Thank God today
for your salvation and your hope of
eternal life with Him. —MC*
“God loved us and gave us
through his grace a wonderful
hope and comfort that has no end.”
2 Thessalonians 2:17
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You for Your hope and comfort
that will never end. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Tuesday, June 10 Wednesday, June 11

Birth of the Church
Bible Reading: Acts 2:1-12
On the day
of Pentecost,
Jewish people
brought the
their harvest
and offered it
to God. Our
Bible Reading tells us that many
Jews were gathered in Jerusalem for
this festival. Suddenly some strange
things happened — noise, wind and
followed Jesus
Holy Spirit, and they began to speak
different languages. The Holy Spirit
was giving them the power to do
this” (verse 4). This was the birth of
God’s church.
The rest of Acts, chapter 2, tells us
that Peter preached to the people.
He told them about Jesus’ death
and resurrection. Then Peter told
them that they could have the Holy
Spirit, too. Peter said in Acts 2:38,
“Change your hearts and lives and
be baptized, each one of you, in the
name of Jesus Christ. Then God will
forgive your sins, and you will receive
the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
You can receive the Holy Spirit,
too. Change your heart and be
baptized. Then you will have a new
life in Jesus! —GT
“We know that we live in God
and God lives in us. We know this
because he gave us his Spirit.”
1 John 4:13
Do What is Right
Bible Reading: Exodus 6:28-7:7
There have
been times
when I have
seen someone
doing
something
wrong. But
I didn’t do
anything about it. Why Because I
was afraid.
In our Bible Reading, God told
Moses to give His message to the
king of Egypt. But Moses said
in Exodus 6:30b, “I‘m a very bad
speaker. How will I make the king
listen to me” God told Moses that
He would be with him and help him.
The next few chapters of Exodus
tell us that Moses spoke to the king
many times. Each time, God was
with Moses and did miracles to
show His power. God used Moses to
be a great leader of the Israelites.
This story about Moses teaches
me that when I see wrong things
happen, I should not be afraid to do
what is right. Why Because I know
God will be with me.
I hope you will do what is right
and stand strong for God today. He
was with Moses, and He will always
be with you! —JP*
“I will punish the people of
Egypt, and they will learn that
I am the Lord. Then I will lead
my people out of their country.”
Exodus 7:5
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You for Your Holy Spirit. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
23
PRAYER: Dear Father, thank You
for always being with me. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
Thursday, June 12 Friday, June 13

God Did It!
Bible Reading: Acts 3:1-15
Our Bible
verses tell us
that one day
Peter and John
went to the
temple to pray.
A crippled
man was there,
begging for money. The man asked
Peter for money. Peter told the man
that he did not have any money, but
he would give him something else.
Peter said to the man (verse 6b),
“By the power of Jesus Christ from
Nazareth — stand up and walk!”
The man stood up and walked.
“He was walking and jumping and
praising God” (verse 8b). The other
people were amazed. They thought
that Peter had healed the man. But
Peter assured them (verse 13a),
“No, God did it!”
Sometimes we pray and ask God
to heal a person. When God answers
that prayer, should we think that it
happened because our prayers are
so good No! God made it happen,
not us.
Be sure that you always give
God the praise and glory when He
answers your prayers. Thank Him
for His wonderful power. —DJH*
Father Who Lives Forever
Bible Reading: Isaiah 9:3-7
Today
many people
in America
will honor
their fathers.
My father
was a good
father. He
made sure I had a place to live, food
to eat and clothes to wear. But most
important, my father gave me his
love. My father has died, but I still
miss the sound of his voice and how
safe I felt in his arms.
Our Bible Reading for today was
written many years before Jesus
was born. Verse 6 talks about Jesus.
“God will give us a son...His name will
be ‘Wonderful Counselor, Powerful
God, Father Who Lives Forever,
Prince of Peace.’” This verse tells me
that Jesus is my “Father Who Lives
Forever.”
My earthly father died, but I am so
glad that Jesus is my Father forever. I
can talk to Jesus any time, and I can
read about Him in the Bible.
Jesus loves you and died on the
cross to give you salvation and
eternal life. Have you accepted Him
as your Father Who Lives Forever
—SAH
“He is the only God, the One
who saves us. To him be glory,
greatness, power, and authority
through Jesus Christ our Lord
for all time past, now, and forever.
Amen.” Jude 25
PRAYER: God, thank You for
answering my prayers. I give You all
the glory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
24
“His power will continue to grow, and
there will be peace without end. This
will establish him as the king sitting
on David’s throne and ruling his
kingdom. He will rule with goodness
and justice forever and ever.”
Isaiah 9:7a
PRAYER: God thank You for Your
Son, Jesus. In His name. Amen.
Saturday, June 14 Sunday, June 15

God’s Servant
Bible Reading: Judges 6:11-24
In our
Bible Reading
today, we
learn about
Gideon. God
chose him to
be a leader of
the Israelites.
But Gideon was not sure that he
would be a good leader. He asked
the angel of the Lord, “How can I
save Israel My family group is the
weakest in the tribe of Manasseh,
and I am the youngest one in my
family” (verse 15b). Gideon even
asked God two times to give him
proof that He would be with him.
Finally, Gideon decided to
serve God, and he faithfully
led the Israelite army to defeat
the Midianites. Gideon is even
mentioned in Hebrews, chapter 11,
as a man of faith. Sometimes I feel
like Gideon. I am quiet and shy. I do
not think that God can use me to be
His servant. But God can make even
the weakest person successful.
The Bible tells us about many
people who served God even though
they thought they were not good
enough to be God’s servant. God
has used me, and He can use you,
too. Submit to Him and become His
servant today! —DB*
“...with that faith they defeated
kingdoms. They did what was right,
and God helped them in the ways he
promised.” Hebrews 11:33b
Good from Bad (1)
Bible Reading: Acts 28:1-9
Every day
bad things
happen in
the world.
But God can
use these
bad things to
make good
things happen for His kingdom.
Today and tomorrow we will look at
how God brought good things from
bad situations in Paul’s life.
Paul always wanted to go to Rome
and share the Good News about
Jesus with people there. How did
was a prisoner! God used the bad
situation of being a prisoner to
bring good things to other people.
In our Bible verses today, we learn
that the ship Paul was sailing on was
shipwrecked. Paul and the other
passengers stayed in the home of a
was very sick, and Paul healed him.
Then, “all the other sick people on the
island came to Paul, and he healed
them” (verse 9b).
Paul was a prisoner, but he was
still able to serve God and do good.
Ask God to use you today — even
in the bad situations that happen to
you. —JK
“We know that in everything God
works for the good of those who love
him. These are the people God chose,
because that was his plan.”
Romans 8:28
PRAYER: Dear God, use me to
be Your servant. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
PRAYER: God, please use me to
serve You today. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
25
Monday, June 16 Tuesday, June 17

Good from Bad (2)
Bible Reading: Acts 28:16-30
Yesterday
we talked
about Paul.
He was a
prisoner, but
God used his
bad situation
to make good
things happen. Our Bible Reading
today tells us what happened to Paul
when he arrived in Rome.
Verse 16 tells us that in Rome
Paul “was allowed to live alone. But
a soldier stayed with him to guard
him.” Paul did not sit around and
do nothing. Right away he got
busy telling people about Jesus.
Paul “spoke to them all day long,
explaining God’s kingdom to them.
He used the Law of Moses and the
writings of the prophets to persuade
them to believe in Jesus” (verse 23b).
Paul was in the bad situation of
being a prisoner, but because of
that, many people in Rome became
Christians. “Paul stayed two full
years in his own rented house. He
welcomed all the people who came to
him” (verse 30).
God is so wonderful! He is able
to make good things happen all the
time. Praise Him and thank Him for
working in your life today. —JK
“[Paul] told them about God’s
kingdom and taught them about the
Lord Jesus Christ. He was very bold,
and no one tried to stop him from
speaking.” Acts 28:31
A Surprise for Saul
Bible Reading: Acts 9:1-20
Our verses
today tell us
about Saul.
He hated
people who
followed
Jesus.
He even
threatened to arrest them and kill
them. Saul thought that he was
obeying God, but one day Saul got a
big surprise!
Saul was traveling to Damascus
to arrest Christians. “...a very bright
light from heaven suddenly shined
around him” (verse 3b). This
light blinded Saul, and he fell to
the ground. A voice said to Saul
(verse 4b), “Saul, Saul! Why are you
persecuting me”
Saul asked who was talking to
him. The voice answered, “I am
Jesus, the one you are persecuting”
(verse 5b). The men traveling with
Saul led him into Damascus where a
man named Ananias prayed for Saul
and helped him see again.
After this, Saul believed in Jesus.
Everywhere he went, he told people,
“Jesus is the Son of God” (verse 20b).
I am glad that Saul believed in Jesus
and told other people about Him.
I hope you will tell people about
Jesus, too. —DJH*
“...Saul became more and more
powerful in proving that Jesus is the
Messiah.” Acts 9:22a
PRAYER: God, thank You for making
good things happen in my life. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
26
PRAYER: Father, I want to share
Jesus with people I meet today. In
His name. Amen.
Wednesday, June 18 Thursday, June 19

Our Interpreter
Bible Reading: Hebrews 1:1-4
Deaf people
often use
interpreters
so they can
understand
what hearing
people are
saying to them.
If a deaf person is sick and goes to a
doctor, an interpreter can help them
understand how the doctor will
help them get well.
I remember when I was a young
girl, a stranger came to our house.
It was a man who was deaf and
unable to speak. My mother
knew a little sign language, so she
helped the man and my father
communicate.
Our Bible Reading tells us that God
used many ways to communicate
with people in the world. Then God
sent Jesus to live on earth. Jesus
helped people understand God’s
message of love and hope. “The Son
shows the glory of God. He is a perfect
copy of God’s nature, and he holds
everything together by his powerful
command” (verse 3a).
An interpreter helps a deaf person
understand a hearing person.
In the same way, Jesus helps us
understand about God. Thank God
today for sending Jesus so we can
live with Him forever. —PD
“And now in these last days, God has
spoken to us again through his Son.”
Hebrews 1:2a
Be a Missionary
Bible Reading: Acts 11:19-24
My
grandson is
a missionary.
He wanted
to tell people
about Jesus,
so he went to
Kenya. Then
my grandson heard that people in
Liberia needed to know about Jesus,
so he went there. He is now helping
start a church in Liberia.
Before Jesus went back to
heaven, He told His followers to go
everywhere in the world and tell
them the Good News about God’s
plan of salvation. Our Bible Reading
today tells us that some of Jesus’
followers were being persecuted.
So they moved to other places.
Then these followers became
missionaries in new cities.
When the church in Jerusalem
heard that there were new believers
in Antioch, they sent Barnabas to
help them. Barnabas encouraged
the people by saying, “Always be
faithful to the Lord. Serve him with
all your heart” (verse 23b).
My grandson and Barnabas
went to different places to tell
people about Jesus. You can be
a missionary, too — right where
you live. Tell someone about Jesus
today! —DJH*
“How wonderful it is to see someone
coming to tell good news!”
Romans 10:15b
PRAYER: God, thank You for Jesus
who shows us Your message of
salvation. In His name. Amen.
PRAYER: Father, help me to tell
someone about Jesus today. In His
name. Amen.
27
Friday, June 20 Saturday, June 21

Balance
Bible Reading: 1 John 4:7-16
Children
always enjoy
playgrounds.
They swing,
slide, climb
and play
ball. When I
was a child,
my favorite was the teeter-totter.
Sometimes I sat high up in the air;
at other times, my feet dug into the
ground. When two children balance
their weight on a teeter-totter, the
board is level and they can see each
other eye-to-eye.
We need to have balance in what
we know about God. First, we
need to understand that He loves
us. Verse 16a of our Bible Reading
says, “So we know the love that God
has for us, and we trust that love.
God is love.” Second, we also need
to understand that God hates our
sin. But the good news is that God
sent Jesus to earth to die. Through
Jesus’ death, we can have our sins
forgiven.
God has a wonderful plan for our
salvation. Jesus did the work when
He died on the cross. Our response
is to follow and obey Jesus and give
our lives to Him. —PD
“If God’s love is made perfect in
us, we can be without fear on that
day when God judges the world.
We will be without fear, because
in this world we are like Jesus.”
1 John 4:17
Law or Grace
Bible Reading: Acts 11:4-18
Before Jesus
died, the Jews
lived under
God’s law. It
was God’s law
that saved
them. But
after Jesus’
death and resurrection, God had a
new plan. This new plan was that
people are saved by God’s grace, not
by obeying laws.
Jewish Christians to understand
being saved by God’s grace. It was
also hard for them to know that
God’s plan was for all people, not just
for the Jews. In our Bible Reading
today, some Jewish Christians did not
understand how Peter could preach
the Good News about Jesus to people
who were not Jews and did not obey
the Jewish laws. In these verses,
Peter explained how God showed
him that salvation was for all people.
Sometimes we can be like these
Jewish Christians. We forget about
God’s grace and think that we must
obey rules to earn our salvation.
But we need to remember that we
are saved by God’s grace through
God today for this wonderful gift of
salvation! —SH*
“God is also allowing even those who
are not Jews to change their hearts
so that they can have the life he
gives!” Acts 11:18b
PRAYER: God, thank You for
forgiving my sins. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
28
PRAYER: Dear God, thank You for
saving me through Your grace. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
Sunday, June 22 Monday, June 23

Answered Prayer
Bible Reading: Psalm 65:1-13
My son had
a problem
with his arm,
so I took him
to the doctor.
The doctor
said that my
son needed to
have some medical tests.
I took my son to the hospital for
the tests. I knew that some of the
tests would be painful, so I was very
concerned about my son. It was
I prayed all the time I was there.
tests. He told me that it had been
painful, but the tests showed that he
would not need surgery on his arm.
In our Bible verses today, the
writer praised God for many things.
One thing was answered prayer.
Verse 2 says, “Anyone can come
to you, and you will listen to their
prayers.” God heard my prayer and
took care of my son.
Are you worried about something
today Are you concerned about
someone who is sick Give your
worries to God. He will always
answer your prayers and do what is
best for you! —BH
“God, you answer our prayers and do
what is right. You do amazing things
to save us. People all over the world
know they can trust in you.”
Psalm 65:5a
Steak Supper
Bible Reading: Hebrews 5:11-14
Recently
our church
had a steak
supper. We
enjoyed grilled
steak, baked
potatoes, salad,
hot rolls and
desserts. The food tasted so good!
Steak is expensive, so it was a real
treat to have this kind of meal.
I like to eat steak. So it would be
a problem if my doctor told me that
I could only eat soft foods and drink
milk like a baby. I would miss many
foods that I love and enjoy.
Our Bible verses today talk about
Christians who were not growing.
The writer says in verse 12, “You
have had enough time that by now
you should be teachers. But you need
lessons of God’s teaching. You still
need the teaching that is like milk.
You are not ready for solid food.”
As Christians, we need to always
be growing and learning. We need
to study the Bible, fellowship with
Christians and share God’s message
with others. Then we will grow
and become strong and mature
Christians. I hope you are growing
today! —PD
“But solid food is for people who have
grown up. From their experience
they have learned to see the
difference between good and evil.”
Hebrews 5:14
PRAYER: God, I know You always
hear my prayers and answer them.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
PRAYER: Father, I want to learn
and grow every day. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
29
Tuesday, June 24 Wednesday, June 25

Trust in the Lord
Bible Reading: Isaiah 40:28-31
Peter
Marshall was
a famous
preacher.
When he
died, his wife,
Catherine,
was
overcome with grief and stress.
As Catherine tried to work
through this grief, she realized that
God was telling her to grow up and
become more mature. Later, as she
looked back over this time of grief,
she said that God had taken her
“grief and smashed hope and turned
them into astonishing good.”
As long as we live on earth, there
will always be things that cause us
grief and worry — death, poverty,
sickness or war. But we need to
remember that God has a plan for
our lives and that He can bring good
things from our bad times.
We need to keep trusting God
through these bad times. Verse 31
of our Bible Reading says, “But those
who trust in the Lord will become
strong again — like eagles that grow
new feathers. They will run and not
get weak. They will walk and not get
tired.”
No matter what you are facing
today, keep on trusting God. He will
always be with you. —VNW
“[God] helps tired people be strong.
He gives power to those without it.”
Isaiah 40:29
PRAYER: God, I want to keep
trusting You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
30
The Old Testament
Bible Reading: Acts 13:13-41
Most of our
Bible verses
today are
words that
Paul spoke
to people in
the city of
Antioch.
In this sermon, Paul talked about
the Israelites traveling from Egypt
to Canaan. He also talked about
people from the Old Testament —
Samuel, Saul and King David. Paul
shared these things with the people
and then told them about Jesus.
We can read the New Testament
and learn about Jesus and His plan
of salvation. But when we read and
study the Old Testament, too, we
learn that it is the foundation for
the New Testament. Reading the
prophecies in the Old Testament
helps us know more about Jesus and
Some people only read the New
Testament. But I encourage you to
read and study the Old Testament,
too. Share the Old Testament
stories with others so that they can
learn about God’s wonderful plan
for their lives. —SH*
“We tell you the Good News about the
promise God made to our ancestors.
We are their descendants, and God
has made this promise come true for
us. God did this by raising Jesus from
death.” Acts 13:32-33
PRAYER: Father, thank You for Your
wonderful message for us. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
Thursday, June 26 Friday, June 27

Remember
Bible Reading: Hebrews 13:1-9
In our
Bible Reading
today, the
writer lists
things that
please God —
loving each
other, helping
people, honoring marriage and
keeping away from sin.
In verse 7 there is something
else that pleases God. “Remember
your leaders. They taught God’s
message to you. Remember how they
lived and died, and copy their faith.”
When I read this verse, I think about
a woman named Ida. I met her in
Salt Lake City, Utah. I had no family
near me, so Ida became my spiritual
mother. She used to tell me about
the time when she and her husband
won a contest, dancing to the song,
“The Tennessee Waltz.” Today
when I hear that song, I think about
Ida and remember her faith and
testimony to me.
It is good for us to remember
people who have been examples
for us and helped us grow in Christ.
Take time today to think about
Christians who have helped you.
Then thank God for these people!
—JL*
“But answer them in a gentle way
with respect. Keep your conscience
clear. Then people will see the good
way you live as followers of Christ.”
1 Peter 3:16a
PRAYER: Father, thank You for
people who have helped me grow
closer to You. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Suffering
Bible Reading: Acts 14:21-28
Today we
read that Paul
and Barnabas
went back
to several
churches they
had visited
before. Why
“In those cities they helped the
followers grow stronger in their faith
and encouraged them to continue
trusting God” (verse 22a).
Paul and Barnabas also told
these people that they would
face suffering for God’s kingdom.
Sometimes people think that
when they become a Christian,
not face hard times. But if we are
truly following Jesus, we will face
suffering and persecution.
When I make a salad, I don’t just
throw lettuce in the bowl and eat it.
I add other vegetables and things
that make a good salad. Our faith is
like that. It is built on the suffering
we face as well as the good times.
Don’t be surprised when you
experience suffering in your
Christian life. Use those times to
make your faith grow stronger.
—SH*
“Can anything separate us from
Christ’s love Can trouble or
problems or persecution separate
us from his love...But in all these
troubles we have complete victory
through God, who has shown his love
for us.” Romans 8:35, 37
PRAYER: Father, I trust You. Give
me strength to face hard times. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
31
Saturday, June 28 Sunday, June 29

Jesus Gave
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 8:1-9
Paul talks
about giving
in our Bible
verses today.
So that his
readers
would
understand
more about giving, Paul talked
about what Jesus gave to all of us.
Verse 9 says, “You know the grace
of our Lord Jesus Christ. You know
that he gave up his heavenly riches
for you. He gave up everything so
that you could be richly blessed.”
When Jesus came to earth, He
gave up all the riches and beauty
of heaven. He came as a weak
and helpless baby. Jesus lived as a
human on earth.
Why did Jesus do this Hebrews
4:15 tells us “Jesus, our high priest, is
able to understand our weaknesses.
When Jesus lived on earth, he was
tempted in every way. He was tempted
in the same ways we are tempted, but
he never sinned.” Jesus came to earth
so that He could understand what it is
like to be a human.
It is wonderful that Jesus was
willing to give up His glorious life
in heaven and come to earth to die
for us. Praise God today for His Son,
Jesus! —RK*
“In your life together, think the way
Christ Jesus thought...he gave up
everything, even his place with God.”
Philippians 2:5,7a
Women in Acts (1)
Bible Reading: Acts 1:12-14
Acts tells us
about women
who were part
of the church.
Some of these
women had
important
roles in
starting the church. Other women
these women can teach us something
about serving and loving God.
in Acts is Mary, the mother of Jesus.
Our Bible Reading tells us that Mary
was one of the women who met with
the apostles after Jesus went back to
heaven. Why did Mary meet with the
apostles She met with them to pray.
It must have been exciting to be
part of that prayer group. Maybe
they were not sure they could do
God’s work without Jesus. Perhaps
they wondered how they could
share the Good News with so many
other people.
Mary believed in Jesus and served
God through His church. You
can serve God through your local
church, too. Look for ways God can
use you to spread His message of
salvation. —JK
“The apostles were all together. They
were constantly praying with the
same purpose. Some women, Mary
the mother of Jesus, and his brothers
were there with the apostles.”
Acts 1:14
PRAYER: God, thank You that Jesus
was willing to come to earth and die
for me. In His name. Amen.
32
PRAYER: Father, show me how I
can serve you today. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Monday, June 30 Tuesday, July 1

Women in Acts (2)
Bible Reading: Acts 5:1-11
Our Bible
Reading
today tells
us about
a woman
named
Sapphira.
She and her
husband, Ananias, were part of the
church in Jerusalem. Acts 4:34b-
35 tells us about the people in that
church.
or houses sold them. They brought
the money they got and gave it to the
apostles. Then everyone was given
whatever they needed.”
Ananias and Sapphira sold some
land, but they gave only part of the
money to the apostles. It was not
wrong for Ananias and Sapphira to
only give part of the money to the
church. But it seems that they lied
about how much money they gave.
They both died because they lied to
God.
There are people today in the
church who are like Ananias and
Sapphira. These people pretend that
they give lots of money to the church
so that other people will praise them
and respect them. But God always
wants us to tell the truth. Be sure
that everything you say/sign is true
and pleases God. —JK
Women in Acts (3)
Bible Reading: Acts 6:1-4
In the
Jerusalem
church, there
were two
groups of
people. The
was Jews
who read God’s Word in the Hebrew
language. The second group was
people who read God’s Word in the
Greek language. When the Greekspeaking
Jews came to Jerusalem,
they heard about Jesus and became
part of the church there.
In both groups there were widows
— women whose husbands had died.
The church provided food and other
things for these widows. But there
was a problem. Our Bible Reading
tells us that the Greek-speaking
widows “were not getting their share
of what the followers received every
day” (verse 1b).
So the apostles had a meeting of all
the followers. They decided to choose
seven men to take care of the widows.
It is important today for Christians
to take care of each other, too. James
1:27a tells us, “The worship that God
wants is this: caring for orphans
or widows who need help.” God is
pleased when you share with your
brothers and sisters in Christ. —JK
“At that moment Sapphira fell down
by his feet and died. The young men
came in and saw that she was dead.
They carried her out and buried her
beside her husband.” Acts 5:10
PRAYER: God, I always want to tell
the truth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
33
“The word of God was reaching
more and more people. The group of
followers in Jerusalem became larger
and larger.” Acts 6:7a
PRAYER: Dear God, I want to share
with people who are in need. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
Wednesday, July 2 Thursday, July 3

Women in Acts (4)
Bible Reading: Acts 9:1-2
Saul did
not believe
that Jesus was
God’s Son.
So Saul did
bad things to
Christians.
This is called
persecution. Later, Saul realized that
he was wrong. He was baptized and
became a great preacher for Jesus.
Our Bible verses today are about
the time before Saul became a
Christian. Saul told Christians he
would kill them. He planned to go
to the city of Damascus. Verse 2a
says that the Jewish high priest gave
Saul
Damascus who were followers” of
Jesus.
The last part of verse 2 says, “If
he found any believers there, men or
women, he would arrest them and
bring them back to Jerusalem.” Saul
didn’t just persecute Christian men.
He also persecuted Christian women!
People persecute Christians
today, too. You should be ready to
experience bad things because you
are a Christian. Stand strong for
God and His Word. —JK
“On that day the Jews began to
persecute the church in Jerusalem,
making them suffer very much. Saul
was also trying to destroy the group.
He went into their houses, dragged
out men and women, and put them in
jail.” Acts 8:2-3a
Women in Acts (5)
Bible Reading: Acts 9:36-41
Our Bible
Reading
today tells
us that in
the city of
Joppa there
was a woman
named
Tabitha. She was also called Dorcas.
Tabitha was “always doing good
things for people and giving money
to those in need” (verse 36b).
While Peter was in Joppa, Tabitha
died. The Christians there were
so sad. They asked Peter to come
to the room where they had put
Tabitha’s body. Many people were
in the room. They cried and showed
Peter the clothes that Tabitha had
made for them. Peter prayed and
then said, “‘Tabitha, stand up!’ She
opened her eyes. When she saw
Peter, she sat up” (verse 40b).
Tabitha was a true servant. She
helped other Christians by giving
them clothes and money. Maybe you
think that your job in God’s family is
not very important. But God needs
all kinds of servants in His kingdom
— teachers, nursery workers,
preachers, musicians, cooks,
maintenance people and many more.
Thank God today for the ways you
can serve Him. —JK
“Then he called the believers and the
widows into the room. He showed
them Tabitha; she was alive!”
Acts 9:41b
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I want
to always stand strong for You and
Your Word. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
34
PRAYER: Father, thank You for
giving me a job to do in Your
kingdom. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Friday, July 4 Saturday, July 5

Women in Acts (6)
Bible Reading: Acts 12:1-17
Our Bible
Reading
today tells
us that King
Herod put
Peter in jail
because
he was
preaching about Jesus.
When Peter was in jail, God sent an
angel to lead Peter out of jail. Then
Peter went to the home of Mary,
where some Christians were meeting.
Verse 12 says that these Christians
were praying. What were they
praying about They were probably
asking God to rescue Peter from jail.
Peter knocked on the door of the
house. “A servant girl named Rhoda
came to answer it” (verse 13b).
Rhoda knew that it was Peter at the
door, and she was excited. She was
so excited that she “even forgot to
open the door” (verse 14b)! Rhoda
ran inside and told the Christians
that Peter was there.
Rhoda was excited because she
knew God answered their prayers.
When God answers your prayers
and does something wonderful in
your life, be sure to thank Him. Be
excited that God loves you and takes
care of you! —JK
“Peter realized then what had
happened. He thought, ‘Now I know
that the Lord really sent his angel to
me.’” Acts 12:11a
PRAYER: Thank You, Father, for
answering my prayers and doing
what is best for me. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
35
Women in Acts (7)
Bible Reading: Acts 16:1-2; 2 Timothy 1:3-6
Timothy
was a young
man who
became a
Christian.
Acts, chapter
16, tells
us that
Timothy’s father was a Greek. But
Timothy’s mother was a Jew who
believed in God. After Timothy
became a Christian, he traveled and
told people about Jesus. Sometimes
Timothy traveled with Paul.
2 Timothy is a letter that Paul
wrote to Timothy to encourage him
in his ministry. In 2 Timothy, Paul
talks about Timothy’s grandmother
and mother. Paul said, “I remember
belonged to your grandmother Lois
and to your mother Eunice. I know you
now have that same faith” (verse 5).
Lois and Eunice believed in God.
And they taught Timothy to believe
in God, too. That was the foundation
for Timothy to learn about Jesus and
to believe that He is God’s Son.
It is very important for us to teach
our children and grandchildren
about Jesus. And it is also important
for us to follow Jesus’ example of
obeying God. Then our children and
grandchildren will want to be like
Jesus, too. —JK
“This is what you were chosen to
do. Christ gave you an example to
follow.” 1 Peter 2:21a
PRAYER: God, I want to show other
people how they can follow Jesus.
In His name. Amen.
Sunday, July 6 Monday, July 7

Women in Acts (8)
Bible Reading: Acts 16:13-15
Paul
traveled to
the city of
Philippi.
There he met
a woman
named Lydia.
She believed
in God and gathered with some
women to pray. Paul preached to
the women about Jesus. “Lydia
was listening to Paul, and the Lord
opened her heart to accept what
Paul was saying. She and all the
people living in her house were
baptized” (verses 14b-15a).
Lydia gave Paul and his friends a
place to stay and food to eat while
they were in Philippi. That is called
hospitality. In 1 Peter 4:9, Peter
encourages Christians to practice
hospitality. “Open your homes to
each other and share your food
without complaining.”
Look for ways that you can show
hospitality to other Christians. Ask
a family to come to your home for a
meal. Invite a visiting missionary to
stay in your home. Take a meal to
an elderly person or someone who
is sick. Love and encourage your
brothers and sisters in Christ today!
—JK
“The believers shared a common
purpose...They also ate together in
their homes. They were happy to
share their food and ate with joyful
hearts.” Acts 2:46
Women in Acts (9)
Bible Reading: Acts 16:16-24
One day
Paul and his
friends met
a servant
girl. This girl
had a spirit
from the devil
that gave her
power to tell what would happen in
the future. Some men owned this
girl and made lots of money when
she told about the future.
The servant girl started following
Paul and his friends. Verse 17b tells
us, “She kept shouting, ‘These men are
servants of the Most High God! They
are telling you how you can be saved!’”
Paul commanded the evil spirit to
come out of the girl. The men who
owned the girl were upset because
they couldn’t use the girl to make
money any more. So, they had Paul
and Silas beaten and thrown into jail.
We don’t know what happened to
the servant girl after this. I am sure
she must have been happy to be free
from the evil spirit. I hope that she
learned about Jesus and became a
Christian.
There are many people in the
world today who are following the
devil. Those people need to know
about Jesus and His free gift of
salvation. Tell someone about Jesus
today. —JK
“[Jesus said,] Go everywhere in
the world. Tell the Good News to
everyone.” Mark 16:15
PRAYER: God, I want to share with
other Christians and encourage
them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
PRAYER: God, I love You and want
to share Your love with other people
today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
36
Tuesday, July 8 Wednesday, July 9

Women in Acts (10)
Bible Reading: Acts 18:1-3
Paul went
to the city
of Athens.
There he met
Aquila and his
wife, Priscilla.
They were
Jews who
had been forced by the Roman
emperor to leave Rome. Priscilla and
Aquila were tentmakers. Paul was
a tentmaker, too, so he stayed and
worked with them. Priscilla and her
husband helped teach a man named
Apollos. They “took him to their
home and helped him understand the
way of God better” (Acts 18:26b).
Several times Paul mentioned
Priscilla and her husband in his
letters to churches. They must
have been very faithful people who
helped take care of Paul and other
Christians. One time Paul even said
that “they risked their own lives to
save mine” (Romans 16:3b).
Today God gives us opportunities
to be like Priscilla and Aquila. We
can pray for missionaries and
also go on mission trips to help
missionaries do their work. Ask
God to show you where you can
serve Him best. —JK
“Give my greetings to Priscilla and
Aquila, who have worked together
with me for Jesus Christ.”
Romans 16:3a
PRAYER: God, show me how I can
help missionaries to share the news
about Jesus. In His name. Amen.
37
God’s Forgiveness
Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:6-11
One day
I was at a
Christian
bookstore
with my
friend. A
clerk told
me there
were two pictures that were
chipped. She said I could have
them for free. I thought she was
kidding, so I walked away. My
friend looked at the pictures and
said, “I’ll take them.” The clerk gave
them to my friend free of charge.
I misunderstood the clerk, so I
missed out on something good.
Our Bible Reading today reminds
us that we do not think like God
thinks. For example, we may think,
“My sin is so bad that God will
never forgive me.” But verse 7b
says, “They should come to our God
because he will freely forgive them.”
Don’t miss out on God’s
forgiveness. No matter what you
have done in your life, God can
forgive you. Ask Him to forgive your
sin and to help you stay away from
sin. —BL
“The Lord says, ‘My thoughts are
not like yours. Your ways are not
like mine. Just as the heavens are
higher than the earth, so my ways
are higher than your ways, and
my thoughts are higher than your
thoughts.’” Isaiah 55:8-9
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I always
look forward to the time when Jesus
will come again. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Thursday, July 10 Friday, July 11

God’s Grace
Bible Reading: Acts 15:3-12
Our Bible
verses today
tell us that
there was
a problem
in the early
church. Some
people said
that if a person wanted to be a
Christian he had to also obey the
Jewish laws.
Often I talk with people who say
that God’s grace is not enough to
save me. They tell me that I have
to wear a certain kind of clothes or
read a special Bible or speak to God
in a strange way. But that is not what
Peter said in our Bible verses today.
Peter told the group in Jerusalem,
“...we believe that we and these
people will be saved the same way —
by the grace of our Lord Jesus” (verse
11). When we add something to
God’s Word, it is like giving people
a heavy burden to carry around.
Peter said (verse 10a), “So now,
why are you putting a heavy burden
around the necks of non-Jewish
followers of Jesus”
God’s salvation is a gift given to
us through His grace. Thank Him
today for this gift! —SH*
“So it is clear that no one can be
made right with God by the law. The
Scriptures say, ‘The one who is right
with God by faith will live forever.’”
Galatians 3:11
Jesus was Humble
Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:1-6
Jesus’ life
on earth
with many
common
things. He
was not
born in a
king’s palace. Instead, when Jesus
was born, He was laid in an animal
feeding box.
As Jesus grew up, He probably
helped His earthly father, Joseph.
Joseph was a carpenter. Jesus may
have helped him make common
objects like chairs and tables. When
we read about Jesus’ ministry, we
see that He was not wealthy or had
any fancy possessions. He lived a
very common life. Finally, Jesus was
hung on a wooden cross. Usually
common criminals such as thieves
and murderers were killed this way.
All of these things show us that
Jesus was very humble! He was
willing to give up His heavenly
home and come to earth and live a
common life.
Verse 2 of our Bible Reading tells
us that we should “never stop looking
to Jesus.” He is our perfect example.
Be humble like Jesus today. —NW
“[Jesus] suffered death on a cross.
But he accepted the shame of the
cross as if it were nothing because of
the joy he could see waiting for him.”
Hebrews 12:2b
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You for Your grace. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
PRAYER: Dear God, help me to be
humble like Jesus. In His name.
Amen.
38
Saturday, July 12 Sunday, July 13

Actions
Bible Reading: Luke 6:43-49
Glen was
a loving
husband.
He and his
wife were
married for
many years.
Several times
every day Glen told his wife that he
loved her.
But most people did not know
that Glen was an unfaithful
husband. He had several affairs
during his marriage. Eventually
Glen left his wife for another
woman. Glen’s words said that
he loved his wife, but his actions
showed something different.
In verse 49 of our Bible Reading,
Jesus talked about people who paid
attention to His message but did
not obey it. He said those people
are like “a man who builds a house
without preparing a foundation.
falls down easily and is completely
destroyed.”
Jesus doesn’t want us to only
listen to His commands. He wants
our actions to show that we are
obeying Him. Be sure that you do
what Jesus says today! —NM
Forgiveness
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:9-15
You may
to forgive
some people.
Maybe
someone in
your family
has abused
you. Or maybe your husband or
wife has been unfaithful to you.
In situations like this, it may be
I read about a Christian man who
was in a theater when a gunman
started shooting at the crowd. The
man was injured by the shooter. But
he said he forgave the man who shot
him.
In our Bible verses Jesus said
that if we want God to forgive us,
we need to forgive other people.
Sometimes it is very hard to say,
“I forgive you.” But when we truly
forgive others, we get rid of the hurt
and anger inside us.
Maybe there is someone who
has hurt you. Ask God to help you
love and forgive that person. Then
contact them and tell them, “I
forgive you!” Forgiving that person
will give you peace in your life.
—BP*
“My children, our love should not
be only words and talk. No, our
love must be real. We must show
our love by the things we do.”
1 John 3:18
PRAYER: Faithful Father, I want to
listen to You and obey You. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
39
“Yes, if you forgive others for the
wrongs they do to you, then your
Father in heaven will also forgive
your wrongs. But if you don’t forgive
others, then your Father in heaven
will not forgive the wrongs you do.”
Matthew 6:14-15
PRAYER: God, thank You for Your
forgiveness. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Monday, July 14 Tuesday, July 15

Disagreements
Bible Reading: Acts 15:36-40
Paul and
Barnabas
were good
friends. They
worked
together to
tell people
about Jesus.
But our Bible verses tell us that
one day, Paul and Barnabas had a
disagreement.
Barnabas wanted to take Mark
with them on a mission trip. Paul
disagreed. Verse 39a says, “Paul
and Barnabas had a big argument
about this. It was so bad that they
separated and went different ways.”
We all have times when we
disagree with other people. The
Bible tells us how we can work
through a disagreement. First, we
should try to understand what the
other person is feeling and thinking.
Philippians 2:3 says, “...don’t let
humble and honor others more than
yourselves.” Second, we should not
become angry. Ephesians 4:26 tells
us to not let our anger make us sin
and to “not stay angry all day.”
When you have a disagreement,
don’t give up or run away. Ask God
GT
“Great blessings belong to those
who work to bring peace. God will
call them his sons and daughters.”
Matthew 5:9
Love God
Bible Reading: Matthew 22:34-40
My wife
and I arrived
at Deaf
Church for
There were
no cars in the
parking lot.
We wondered if we had arrived at
the wrong time.
We walked up the sidewalk.
The door to the church was open.
We looked inside. A woman was
standing there — she had a big smile
on her face. She introduced herself
as Hattie. Over the next few years we
grew to love Hattie. She put broccoli
in her Jell-o desserts and wore an
oversized coat all year round.
But the thing that I remember
the most about Hattie was her love
for God. She never wanted to talk
about herself. She wanted to talk
about God and how much He loved
her. Hattie never had much money
to give, but she always gave herself
to help other people.
Our Bible Reading today tells
us that loving God is the most
important command. Think about
your life. Do the people around you
see that you love God —GB
“Jesus answered, ‘Love the Lord your
God with all your heart, all your soul.
and most important command.’”
Matthew 22:37-38
PRAYER: Father, help me to be
loving and kind to all people. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
PRAYER: Dear Lord, I want to love
You most of all. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
40
Wednesday, July 16 Thursday, July 17

“I Am With You”
Bible Reading: Genesis 28:10-22
I was
driving to an
appointment.
The weather
was cool and
cloudy. I
noticed that
on one side
the sun was trying to peek through
the clouds. But on the other side,
the clouds were dark and it looked
like a storm was coming. Those
storm clouds reminded me of the
happening in my life.
The sun shone through the clouds
just enough that a rainbow formed in
the sky. This was unusual. Usually
a rainbow appears after a storm. As
I watched the rainbow, it reminded
me that God was with me. I knew He
would take care of me through my
In our Bible verses for today.
Jacob had a dream. In that dream,
God told him, “I am with you, and I
will protect you everywhere you go”
(verse 15a). God was with Jacob
and took care of him. I know that
God will be with me, too — even
when I have worries and doubts.
Trust God today. He will be with
you and protect you. —BH
“I will bring you back to this land.
I will not leave you until I have
done what I promised.”
Genesis 28:15b
Songs of Praise
Bible Reading: Acts 16:16-34
I like to
sing praises
to God. But I
am not sure if
I would sing
praise songs
if I were in
jail. But that’s
what Paul and Silas did when they
were in jail in the city of Philippi.
Our Bible Reading tells us that
Paul and Silas were put into jail
because they healed a servant girl
who had an evil spirit from the
devil. Paul and Silas were “beaten
severely and thrown into jail” (verse
23a). The jailer put Paul and Silas
far inside the jail and put their feet
between blocks of wood.
Paul and Silas were hurt and were
put into jail unfairly. But what did
they do They prayed to God and
sang songs. That is a wonderful
lesson for us. When we are hurt or
upset, what do we do Often we
complain or blame God and other
people for our problems.
Maybe you will face some bad
situations today. Don’t be sad and
complain. Praise God and thank
Him for being with you during
JK
“About midnight Paul and Silas were
praying and singing songs to God.
The other prisoners were listening to
them.” Acts 16:25
PRAYER: Lord, I am so happy to
know that You are always with me.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I want
to praise You all the time. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
41
Friday, July 18 Saturday, July 19

God’s Promises
Bible Reading: Colossians 1:3-8
I like to
travel. It is
fun to go to
new places.
One time
our friends
gave my
husband and
me free airplane tickets to England
so we could visit our daughter.
Our friends made the airline
reservations for us. They told us
that all the arrangements had been
made for our trip.
We trusted our friends to take
care of our trip plans. In the same
way, I know I can always trust God.
He keeps all his promises. He has
promised us salvation and eternal
life. Paul talked about that in our
Bible verses today. He said to the
Colossian Christians, “Your faith
and love continue because you know
what is waiting for you in heaven —
heard the true message” (verse 5).
Our friends promised us that
my daughter and her family. That
was wonderful! But even more
wonderful will be the time when I
can join God in heaven. Praise God
because He keeps His promises!
—PD
“After I go and prepare a place for
you, I will come back. Then I will
take you with me, so that you can be
where I am.” John 14:3
Compassion
Bible Reading: Matthew 20:29-34
Our Bible
verses today
tell us that
Jesus was
leaving
Jericho to go
to Jerusalem.
He met two
blind men. They shouted to Jesus
(verse 30b), “Lord, Son of David,
please help us!”
The crowd of people who were
traveling with Jesus were excited
to be with Jesus. Soon they would
treat Jesus as a king. They didn’t
want these blind men to bother
Jesus. So the “people there criticized
the blind men and told them to be
quiet” (verse 31).
The people were upset. But was
Jesus upset or angry No! “Jesus
felt sorry for the blind men” (verse
34a). The Greek word that is used
here means that Jesus had a deep
compassion for these men. Jesus
touched the men’s eyes and healed
them.
This Bible story shows us that
when we are sad or hurting, God
is not angry or annoyed with
us. He loves us and shows us His
compassion. —BL
“Jesus stopped and said to
them, ‘What do you want me to
do for you’ They answered,
‘Lord, we want to be able to see.’”
Matthew 20:32-33
PRAYER: Lord, thank You for
Your promise of living with You in
heaven. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
42
PRAYER: God, I thank You that I
can always come to You for help. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
Sunday, July 20 Monday, July 21

Sin
Bible Reading: Acts 3:11-20
I live in an
area where
there are high
temperatures
and humidity
during the
summer.
When I
become hot and uncomfortable, I
go into my house and turn on the air
conditioner.
When we sin, the Holy Spirit
makes us feel uncomfortable. He
wants us to confess our sins to God
and turn back to Him. In our Bible
Reading today, Peter told a crowd
of people what they needed to do.
Verses 19-20a tell us, “So you must
change your hearts and lives. Come
back to God, and he will forgive your
sins. Then the Lord will give you
times of spiritual rest.”
When it is hot and humid, the air
conditioner makes me feel cool and
comfortable. In the same way, when
we confess our sins and ask God to
forgive us, we feel refreshed and
rested.
If you have sin in your life, talk to
God today. Ask Him to forgive you
and make you feel peaceful again.
—PD
“Come to me all of you who are
tired from the heavy burden you
have been forced to carry. I will give
you rest.” Matthew 11:28
Jesus’ Love
Bible Reading: Matthew 8:1-4
In Bible
times, some
people had
a terrible
skin disease
called leprosy.
According
to the law,
lepers were required to stay
away from other people. When
they did meet people, the lepers
were supposed to shout “unclean,
unclean.”
The leper in our Bible verses
broke the rules. He came into a
crowd of people and walked up
to Jesus. The leper bowed down
before Jesus and said, “Lord, you
have the power to heal me if you
want” (verse 2b).
Did Jesus scold the leper or tell
him to go away No! Jesus felt
sorry for the man. He touched the
man and healed him.
There are many people in the
world who are rejected and alone.
They need someone to reach out
to them and tell them about Jesus.
Find someone today that you can
touch with Jesus’ love. —BL
“As Jesus stepped out of the boat, he
saw a large crowd waiting. He felt
sorry for them, because they were like
sheep without a shepherd to care for
them. So he taught the people many
things.” Mark 6:34
PRAYER: Lord, please forgive my
sins and help me to rest in Your love
and forgiveness. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
43
PRAYER
love so that I can reach out to others
today. In His name. Amen.
Tuesday, July 22 Wednesday, July 23

Obeying God
Bible Reading: Acts 4:8-22
Peter
and John
preached
about Jesus.
Some Jewish
leaders did
not like that,
so they put
Peter and John in jail. In our Bible
verses for today, Peter continued to
preach about Jesus.
The Jewish leaders told Peter and
John “not to say anything or to teach
anything in the name of Jesus” (verse
18b). But Peter and John answered
them, “Should we obey you or God
We cannot be quiet. We must tell
people about what we have seen and
heard” (verse 19b).
Sometimes people make fun
of us or threaten us when we talk
about Jesus. It is easy to just give up
and stop talking about Jesus. But
God wants us to obey Him and tell
others about Jesus. When we talk
about Jesus, we may face problems.
But God will be with us and help us
— just like He was with Peter and
John.
Obey God today. Don’t be afraid
to tell others about His Son! —ECW
“But when we obey God’s teaching,
his love is truly working in us. This
is how we know that we are living
in him. If we say we live in God, we
must live the way Jesus lived.”
1 John 2:5-6
PRAYER: Dear God, help me to
obey and trust You as I share Jesus
with others. In His name. Amen.
44
Walking by Faith
Bible Reading: Hebrews 11:1-10
Sometimes
I have a
question or
problem. I
work really
an answer
or solve
my problem. As I think and think,
I start to worry and think sad
thoughts.
Finally I decide to give my
problems and concerns to God. I
pray and ask Him to give me an
answer. While I am praying, I
remember that God will answer my
prayers, so I thank Him, too, for the
answers He will give me.
Our Bible Reading today tells us
about people who depended on God
and walked by faith. When I give
my problems to God, I am walking
by faith. I may not know how God
will help me, but I depend on Him
and trust Him to take care of me.
Are you facing troubles today
Walk by faith and give your
problems to God. And don’t forget
to thank Him for all He does for you!
—BH
“Without faith no one can please
God. Whoever comes to God must
believe that he is real and that he
rewards those who sincerely try to
PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father,
thank You for your love. And thank
You that I can always depend on You
to help me. Help me to walk by faith
today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thursday, July 24 Friday, July 25

Gamaliel
Bible Reading: Acts 5:29-42
When
Jesus lived
on earth,
many Jewish
leaders did
not believe
that Jesus was
God’s Son.
They made fun of Jesus, told lies
about Him and tried to trick Him.
But one Jewish leader helped the
Christians in Jerusalem. This man was
named Gamaliel. He was a Pharisee
and a teacher of the law. The other
Jewish leaders wanted to kill the
apostles. Gamaliel told the leaders
(verses 35b, 38b and 39), “...be careful
of what you are planning to do to these
men. Leave them alone. If their plan
is something they thought up, it will
fail. But if it is from God, you will not be
able to stop them. You might even be
Gamaliel prevented the Jewish
leaders from hurting Peter and the
other apostles. In this way, Gamaliel
served God and helped the church
to grow in Jerusalem. Sometimes
God uses us to help the church
grow. We may not even realize that
God is using us. But we need to be
obedient and humble and let God
speak through us. —DVH*
“In whatever you do, don’t let
humble, and honor others more than
yourselves.” Philippians 2:3
Esther
Bible Reading: Esther 4:12-17
The book
of Esther is
a wonderful
story about a
young Jewish
girl, Esther.
King Xerxes
chose Esther
to be his queen. Esther and her
cousin, Mordecai, learned that a
man named Haman wanted to kill
all the Jews. Esther and Mordecai
Haman’s evil plan. King Xerxes
hanged Haman and saved Esther
and all the Jewish people.
In our Bible Reading today,
Mordecai reminded Esther that God
was using her to save the Jews. In
verse 14b, Mordecai said, “...who
knows, maybe you have been chosen
to be the queen for such a time as
this.”
Sometimes we may not
understand God’s plan for our lives.
But our job is to obey and follow
God. He will lead us and use us to
serve Him.
Be like Esther today. Allow God to
use you to reach out to people who
need to know about Jesus and His
gift of salvation. —JD*
“The king loved Esther more than
any of the other young women,
and she became his favorite. He
approved of her more than any of the
others.” Esther 2:17a
PRAYER: Father, use me today to
help the church grow. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
PRAYER: Dear God, I want to obey
and follow You. Show me how I can
serve You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
45
Saturday, July 26 Sunday, July 27

Philip Obeys God
Bible Reading: Acts 8:26-40
God wants
us to tell
other people
about Jesus.
Our Bible
Reading
today tells us
about Philip,
who shared the Good News about
Jesus. An angel told Philip to go
down a certain road that went from
Gaza to Jerusalem. Probably Philip
did not know why God was sending
him there, but he obeyed.
On that road, Philip met a man
Ethiopia. This man was reading
from the book of Isaiah. The Holy
Spirit told Philip to stay with the
man. The man from Ethiopia
did not understand what he was
reading. So Philip explained that
Isaiah was talking about God’s Son,
Jesus.
The man believed what Philip told
him about Jesus. So Philip baptized
the man, who “continued on his way
home. He was very happy” (verse
39b). We need to obey God and tell
others about Jesus, too. Who will
you tell today —DJH*
“‘Look, here is water! What
is stopping me from being
ordered the chariot to stop.
down into the water, and Philip
baptized him.” Acts 8:36b-38
Faith, Love and Hope
Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:2-3
In our
Bible
Reading
today, Paul
wrote to
a group of
Christians
in the city
of Thessalonica. He praised these
Christians for the work they were
doing for Jesus.
First, Paul thanked God for the
work these Christians did because
of their faith. They believed in Jesus
as God’s Son. Their faith led them to
do good works for God. Second, Paul
thanked God for their work that
came from their love for Jesus and
for each other. Their love prompted
them to serve and encourage each
other.
Finally, Paul said in verse 3b, “And
we thank him that you continue to be
strong because of your hope in our
Lord Jesus Christ.” The Christians in
Thessalonica had the hope of living
forever with God. So they were
willing to be patient and endure
problems for Jesus.
Allow your faith, love and hope
to lead you to do good things for
God today! —JA*
“The Lord’s teaching has spread from
you throughout Greece and beyond.
In fact, your faith in God has become
known everywhere, so we never have
to tell anyone about it.”
1 Thessalonians 1:8
PRAYER: Dear God, I will obey You
and tell others about Jesus today. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
46
PRAYER: Father, I love You and
want to serve You today. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
Monday, July 28 Tuesday, July 29

Tabitha
Bible Reading: Acts 9:36-43
Our Bible
verses tell
us about
Tabitha.
She had a
wonderful
talent from
God. Tabitha
was able to sew and make clothes
for other people. This was how
Tabitha showed God’s love to other
people.
Our Bible verses also tell us that
Tabitha died. All of the people
who knew Tabitha were very sad.
Tabitha’s friends asked Peter to help
her. With God’s help, Peter was
able to raise Tabitha from the dead.
Because of this miracle, many more
people believed in Jesus.
What is your talent Can you
sew Cook Fix things Write
Clean God has given you special
skills and abilities that you can use
to serve others. Your talents may
seem ordinary, but God will help
you use them to show love to other
people.
I hope you use your talents to
help others today. —GT
“In all the work you are given, do the
best you can. Work as though you
are working for the Lord, not any
earthly master. Remember that you
will receive your reward from the
Lord, who will give you what
he promised his people.”
Colossians 3:23-24a
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I want
to use my talents to serve You. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
47
Strong and Brave
Bible Reading: Joshua 1:1-9
Joshua
was a good
man. He did
what God
commanded,
even when
it was hard
to do. When
Moses died, Joshua became the
leader of the people of Israel. It
was a huge responsibility to lead so
many people! But God promised He
would be with Joshua and help him.
In verses 5-6a of our Bible
Reading, God told Joshua that He
would never leave him. “Just as I
was with Moses, I will be with you.
No one will be able to stop you all
your life. I will not abandon you. I
will never leave you. Joshua, you
must be strong and brave!” God
knew that Joshua’s job would not
be easy. But God knew that Joshua
loved and obeyed Him.
Have you ever been scared to do
a big job for God Remember that
God will be with you — just like
He was with Joshua. If you depend
on God, He will help you and give
you the strength to do your job. Be
strong and brave like Joshua today!
—MS
“Remember, I commanded you to be
strong and brave. Don’t be afraid,
because the Lord your God will be
with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You for showing us Your love by
sending Jesus to die for us. Help me
to show Your love today. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
Wednesday, July 30 Thursday, July 31

Peter In Jail
Bible Reading: Acts 12:1-17
King
Herod did
not like
Christians.
He killed
some
Christians
and others he
put in jail. Our Bible verses tell us
that King Herod arrested Peter and
put him in jail.
One night while Peter was in jail,
an angel appeared to Peter. He told
Peter to get dressed and follow Him.
The angel led Peter past the guards
and out of the jail.
Peter went to a house where his
friends were meeting to pray. A
woman named Rhoda came to the
door of the house. When she saw
Peter, she was so happy that she
forgot to open the door. She told the
people in the house that Peter was
at the door. They did not believe
her.
Peter’s friends prayed and asked
God to free Peter. But they did not
believe that God had really led Peter
out of jail. When we pray, we need
to believe that God will answer our
prayers. God hears your prayers
and He will give you what is best for
you and for His kingdom. —DJH*
“But when you ask God, you must
believe. Don’t doubt him. Whoever
doubts is like a wave in the sea that
is blown up and down by the wind.”
James 1:6
PRAYER: God, I do not want to
doubt You. I always want to have
faith in You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
48
God is Wise
Bible Reading: Genesis 7:1-5
God
planned to
to destroy “all
living things
that live
under heaven”
(Genesis
6:17b). God told Noah to build a
boat. He also told Noah to bring his
family and some animals into the
and these animals reproduced and
God is very wise. He made all
animals to belong to families. For
example, a German shepherd
belongs to the dog family and a
chimpanzee belongs to the ape
family. The animals on earth today
are descended from the animals
who came out of the boat that Noah
built. Scientists can study the DNA
of these animals and know which
family they come from.
Although animals from the same
family are alike in many ways, each
animal is unique, too. God is very
wise. He gave us a wide variety of
animals to use and enjoy on earth.
Thank You, God, for being so wise
and creative! —ED*
“People cannot understand the
wonderful things God does. His
miracles are too many to count.”
Job 5:9
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You for all the wonderful things You
have created for us. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Friday, August 1 Saturday, August 2

Reach Out to Others
Bible Reading: Acts 16:1-5
While Paul
was traveling,
he met a
man named
Timothy.
Timothy’s
father was a
Greek, but his
mother was a Jew. Timothy became
a Christian and followed Jesus.
Paul wanted to take Timothy
with him to tell Jewish people
about Jesus. But Paul was worried
that some Jews might be upset
because Timothy had never been
circumcised according to the Jewish
law. Paul did not want this to be a
problem and keep the Jews from
learning about Jesus. Verse 3b of
our Bible Reading tells us that “Paul
circumcised Timothy to please the
Jews.”
Sometimes we go to places where
the people dress differently and
have different customs. We may
need to change the way we dress
in with those people. Then they will
pay attention to our message and
follow Jesus.
Ask God to help you today as
you focus on Jesus and reach out
to others with the Good News of
salvation. —SH*
“But this is the message we tell
everyone: Christ was killed on a
cross.” 1 Corinthians 1:23a
God’s Commands
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:1-17
In our
Bible Reading
today, we
commands
that God gave
to His people,
the Israelites.
These commands are sometimes
called the “Ten Commandments.”
God gave His people many more
commands, but these commands
give practical advice for everyday
living.
Some Christians wonder why
they should pay attention to these
commands that were given to the
Israelites. We should obey these
commands because they will help
us to be closer to God and to have
good relationships with other
people.
In the New Testament, Jesus
mentioned these commands. When
the devil tempted Jesus three times
(Matthew 4:10), He answered the
devil by saying, “You must worship
the Lord your God. Serve only him!”
Study, learn and obey God’s
commands. God will bless you as
you serve Him. —MH*
“So you people must be careful to do
everything the Lord commanded you.
Do not stop following God! You must
live the way the Lord your
God commanded you.”
Deuteronomy 5:32-33a
PRAYER: Father, help me to reach
out to other people today. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
49
PRAYER: God, show me how I can
serve You and obey Your commands.
In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Sunday, August 3 Monday, August 4

Lydia
Bible Reading: Acts 16:11-15
Paul had a
vision from
God. In that
vision he saw
a man from
Macedonia in
Greece. The
man said to
Paul, “Come across to Macedonia
and help us” (Acts 16:9b). Right
away Paul and his friends sailed to
Macedonia.
In the city of Philippi, Paul went
to the river to pray. There he met
a woman named Lydia. She sold
purple cloth. She also worshiped
God. Paul preached to her and she
“and all the people living in her house
were baptized” (verse 15a). Later
she invited Paul and his friends to
stay at her house.
Lydia’s heart was open to receive
the Good News about Jesus. Right
away she shared that news with the
people who lived in her house. And
she shared her home with Paul and
his friends. Lydia is a good example
of a Christian who truly loved and
served God.
Look for ways that God can use
you to serve Him today. —BH
“Be humble and accept God’s
teaching that is planted in your
hearts...Do what God’s teaching says;
don’t just listen and do nothing.”
James 1:21b-22a
Join God’s Team!
Bible Reading: Philippians 1:27-30
When the
Olympic
Games are
held, people
from many
different
countries
come to
watch the athletes representing
their country. People who cannot
attend watch the events on
television. These teams show us
how important it is for people to
work together.
In our Bible Reading today,
Paul encouraged the Christians in
Philippi. In verse 27b Paul said, “I
will know that you stand together
with the same purpose and that you
work together like a team to help
others believe the Good News.”
When Jesus was on earth, He
chose a team of twelve men to carry
on His work. Jesus trained them to
go out and teach about Him. Today
the church is a team, too. God wants
everyone to be part of His team.
As a member of God’s team, we
are not playing a game or trying to
win a gold medal. We are working
to bring lost people to Jesus. Be a
part of God’s team today. —PD
“You are joined together with
peace through the Spirit. Do all
you can to continue as you are,
letting peace hold you together.”
Ephesians 4:3
PRAYER: Lord, open my heart and
lead me where You want me to go. I
want to always serve You. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
50
PRAYER: Father, I want to work
with other Christians to share the
news about Jesus. In His name.
Amen.
Tuesday, August 5 Wednesday, August 6

Check the Message
Bible Reading: Acts 17:10-15
Many
people
today watch
preachers
on TV or the
Internet. Or
they read
books that
talk about God and Jesus. Some
of these preachers and writers
are very good, but others preach a
message that does not agree with
God’s Word.
Our Bible Reading tells us about
the Christians in Berea. Verse 11b
says that these Christians “studied
the Scriptures every day to make
sure that what they heard was really
true.” These people were wise.
They did not want to pay attention
to false teaching. The Berean
Christians checked to make sure
that Paul’s message agreed with
God’s Word.
We should be like the Christians in
Berea. When we watch a preacher
on TV or read a book about God, we
need to be very careful. We should
always make sure they are following
the Bible.
Be careful today to learn and
teach things that agree with God’s
Word. —SH*
“Your word is like a lamp that
guides my steps, a light that shows
the path I should take.”
Psalm 119:105
Complaining
Bible Reading: Numbers 21:4-9
No one
likes to
be with a
person who
complains.
But often
people think
about things
they don’t have. Or they think that
no one understands their problems.
Then they feel sorry for themselves
and complain to other people.
While the Israelites were
wandering in the wilderness, they
often complained. In verse 5b of
our Bible Reading the Israelites
said to Moses, “Why did you bring
us out of Egypt We will die here in
the desert! There is no bread and
no water! And we hate this terrible
food!”
God was so angry with the
Israelites that He sent poisonous
snakes. The snakes bit people, and
many of them died. God was taking
care of the Israelites, so they had no
reason to complain.
Paul reminds us in Philippians
2:14 to “do everything without
complaining or arguing.” Don’t be
a complainer today. Instead, thank
God for all He has done for you.
—PD
“Praise the Lord! Give thanks
to the Lord because he is good!
His faithful love will last forever!”
Psalm 106:1
PRAYER: God, Your Word is very
important. Help me to study it and
receive Your true teaching. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
51
PRAYER: Father, I know that You
love and take care of me. Help me
to be thankful and not complain. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
Thursday, August 7 Friday, August 8

Worship Only God
Bible Reading: Exodus 32:15-28
Our Bible
Reading
tells us that
Moses had
been up on
the mountain
talking with
God. Moses
had a wonderful time listening to
God and learning from Him.
But when Moses arrived at the
Israelite camp, he heard music and
celebrating. The Israelites were
worshiping a golden calf. Instead of
worshiping God, they were bowing
down to an idol. “When Moses came
near the camp, he saw the golden
calf and the people dancing” (verse
19a). Moses destroyed the golden
calf and punished the people.
Think about our world today.
Most people do not worship a golden
calf. But they do worship other
idols. People worship their money,
their houses, their cars or even their
family members. Anytime we make
something more important than God,
we are worshiping that thing.
Be careful today to make God the
most important thing in your life.
Remember to worship only Him!
—NM
“Then Moses destroyed the golden
calf that the people had made. He
the gold until it became dust and
threw it into the water. Then he
forced the Israelites to drink that
water.” Exodus 32:20
PRAYER: God, I want to worship
only You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
52
Good Thoughts
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4-9
It is often
hard for me
to think good
thoughts.
Even when
I am sitting
in church,
my mind
sometimes begins to wander. Other
times I think and think about bad
times in my life.
In our Bible Reading, Paul tells
us to “think about what is good and
worthy of praise” (verse 8b). Then
Paul goes on in that verse to add
that we should think about “what
is true and honorable and right and
pure and beautiful and respected.”
If we want to do that, we need to
discipline our thoughts.
When I start to think bad
thoughts, I try to remember good
things that have happened in my
life. I think about the many ways
God has blessed me. I also like to
children. Those were good times
that happened in my life.
When the devil tempts you to
think about bad things, ask God to
help you remember good things
that have happened to you. Praise
God for the good things He has
done. —JL*
“And because you belong to Christ
Jesus, God’s peace will stand guard
over your thoughts and feelings.”
Philippians 4:7a
PRAYER: Father, I want to praise
You and think about good things. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
Saturday, August 9 Sunday, August 10

Share the Good News!
Bible Reading: Isaiah 61:1-3
Every day
I hear bad
news on TV
and read
about sad
things in the
newspaper.
So I am
excited when a friend says to me,
“Boy, do I have good news for you!”
Our Bible verses today were
written by the prophet, Isaiah. In
verse 1b he said, “The Lord has
chosen me to tell good news to the
poor and to comfort those who are
sad.” Throughout the book of Isaiah
we can read the good news that God
would send His Son, Jesus, to die for
all people.
That good news happened when
Jesus came to earth to live, die and
rise from the dead. Because of that,
we can have forgiveness and live
forever with Him. That is the best
news of all!
If you are a Christian, you have
the responsibility to share that good
news with other people. That news
will comfort and encourage people
who are sad and without hope.
Who will you share this news with
today —PD
“He sent me to announce that the
time has come for the Lord to show
his kindness, when our God will
punish evil people. He has sent me to
comfort those who are sad.”
Isaiah 61:2
Focus on Jesus
Bible Reading: Acts 18:18-28
In our
world today,
many people
think they
know how we
can be happy
Some say
that we should be healthy all the
time or make lots of money. Some
encourage us to follow our dreams
and do what we want to do. And
other people tell us that making
good laws will make us happy.
Our Bible Reading tells us about
two men, Paul and Apollos. These
men knew the secret to true
happiness and satisfaction. Paul
and Apollos preached about Jesus.
Verse 28b says that Apollos “used
the Scriptures and showed that Jesus
is the Messiah.”
If we search for good health, lots
of money or good laws, we are not
focusing on the right thing. We
need to focus on Jesus and what He
did for us. Then we will receive His
peace and direction.
Focus on Jesus today. Study His
life in the Bible and learn how you
can please God. He will help you
stand strong and do what is right.
—SH*
“He had been taught about the
Lord and was always excited to
talk to people about Jesus.”
Acts 18:25a
PRAYER: Lord, thank You for the
good news about Jesus. In His
name. Amen.
PRAYER: Dear God, I want to focus
on Jesus and share Him with other
people. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
53
Monday, August 11 Tuesday, August 12

Jesus Chose to Die
Bible Reading: Matthew 26:36-46
The night
before Jesus
was killed,
He and His
followers
went to a
place called
Gethsemane.
Jesus was very sad, so He prayed to
God.
Jesus said to God (verse 39b), “My
Father, if it is possible, don’t make
me drink from this cup.” Jesus was
saying, “If it is possible, don’t make
me die on the cross.” But then Jesus
said, “But do what you want, not what
I want (verse 39b).” Jesus was willing
to obey God, even if it meant dying.
Jesus could have chosen the easy
way and refused to die. But instead,
He chose to die a horrible death for
us. Jesus never sinned — He was
perfect. But He took our sin and
accepted our punishment.
Why was Jesus willing to do
this Because He wants us to stop
living for sin and start living for
Him! Jesus loves us so much that He
chose to die in our place.
Thank God for what Jesus did for
you. And be sure to live for Him
today! —RK*
“Christ had no sin, but God made
him become sin so that in Christ
we could be right with God.”
2 Corinthians 5:21
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You that Jesus chose to die for me.
Show me how I can live for Him
today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Father and Son
Bible Reading: Luke 15:11-24
Sometimes
at work I do
something
that is really
stupid. Then
I think, “The
boss will
probably
punish me and make me start over
again at the bottom of the company.”
But that has not happened yet!
In our Bible verses, we read about
a son who did something really
stupid. He took his share of his
father’s money and wasted it all. He
had nothing to eat, so he took a job
feeding pigs. Finally, he decided to
go back to his father.
When he saw his father, the son
said, “Father, I have sinned against
God and have done wrong to you. I
am no longer worthy to be called
your son” (verse 21b). The son
knew that he had dishonored his
father. He did not expect his father
to treat him like a son again. But
his father accepted him back and
blessed him with many good things.
As Christians, we are God’s sons
and daughters. Sometimes we
become rebellious and disobey God.
When we repent and come back
to God, He accepts us as His son or
daughter. Thank God today for His
wonderful love! —BL
“My son was dead, but now he is alive
again! He was lost, but now he is
found!” Luke 15:24a
PRAYER: God, thank You for being
my heavenly Father. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
54
Wednesday, August 13 Thursday, August 14

Sinful Habits
Bible Reading: Acts 19:11-20
In our
Bible Reading
today, we
learn that
Paul did
miracles and
healed people
who had evil
spirits. Other people saw what Paul
did and “gave great honor to Jesus”
(verse 17b).
These people decided to give
up their sinful habits and follow
Jesus. Some people who had used
magic burned their magic books.
This showed that they truly wanted
to give up their old life of sin and
follow Jesus.
When we become Christians, we
need to give up our sinful habits.
We may need to throw away dirty
magazines or movies, or stop going
to certain places. We may need
to discipline ourselves to focus on
Jesus instead of our old sins.
Maybe there is something that
you need to throw out of your life
today. Focus on Jesus. He will help
you live a life that pleases Him.
—SH*
“In the past you were full of darkness,
but now you are full of light in the
Lord. So live like children who
belong to the light. This light
produces every kind of goodness,
right living, and truth. Try to learn
what pleases the Lord.”
Ephesians 5:8-10
God’s Armor (1)
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17
In our Bible
verses today,
Paul reminds
the Christians
in Ephesus to
“be strong in
the Lord and
in his great
power” (verse 10b). Then Paul goes
on to tell how a person can do this.
Through the next few verses,
Paul talks about God’s armor. Paul
mentions different parts of armor
that soldiers used to wear into
battle. Then he compares these
parts to ways God helps us so we
can
tricks” (verse 11b).
The devil is very smart, and he
is sneaky. He tries every day to get
us to disobey God. He wants us to
follow him instead of God. But God
wants us to wear His armor and
stand strong against the devil.
For the next few days we will look
at the different things God gives us
as protection against the devil. As
you learn about God’s armor, be
sure to thank Him for His love and
protection every day. —JK
powers of evil in the heavenly places.
That is why you need to get God’s
full armor. Then on that day of evil,
you will be able to stand strong. And
Ephesians 6:12b-13
PRAYER: God, help me to get rid
of sinful things in my life. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
PRAYER: Thank You, God, for giving
me protection against the devil. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
55
Friday, August 15 Saturday, August 16

God’s Armor (2)
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17
piece of
God’s armor
that Paul
mentions is
the belt of
truth (verse
14). In Bible
times, a soldier wore a belt around
his waist. This belt held his clothing
together so that it did not become
Today people wear belts to hold
their pants snug around their waist.
If we wear God’s belt of truth, we
will keep the truth about God with
us all the time. We learn that truth
from God’s Word, the Bible. Then
when the devil lies to us, we will be
able to know what is true and what
is false.
Also, if we have God’s belt of
truth, we remember that we should
always tell the truth. When we tell
the truth, people will trust us and
pay attention to us when we share
the Good News about Jesus with
them.
Wear God’s belt of truth today.
Study God’s Word and learn how
to follow Jesus. Use God’s Word to
stand strong against the devil.
—CE
“People tell silly stories that don’t
agree with God’s truth. Don’t follow
what these stories teach. But teach
yourself to be devoted to God.”
1 Timothy 4:7
PRAYER: Thank You, God, for the
truth we learn from Your Word. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
56
God’s Armor (3)
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17
The next
piece of
God’s armor
that Paul
lists is “the
protection of
right living”
(verse 14b).
This is compared to the protection
that a soldier wore to cover his
chest.
Why would a soldier need to
protect his chest The chest is
where many of the body’s important
organs are located. If a soldier was
wounded in the chest, he would
probably die.
Right living means choosing to
obey God’s commands and keeping
His Word in our hearts. Right living
protects us from making wrong
choices and sinning against God. If
we choose to live the right way, we
will be honest, good, humble and
fair.
The devil will tempt you to not
obey God. Wear the protection
of right living and resist the devil
today. —CE
“In the past you were full of darkness,
but now you are full of light in the
Lord. So live like children who
belong to the light. This light
produces every kind of goodness,
right living, and truth.”
Ephesians 5:8-9
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I want to
please You and live right. Help me
to obey You today. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Sunday, August 17 Monday, August 18

God’s Armor (4)
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17
Verse 15
of our Bible
Reading tells
us the next
part of God’s
armor. “On
your feet
wear the Good
News of peace to help you stand
strong.”
What did soldiers in Bible times
wear on their feet They wore
shoes that protected their feet
and helped them walk in battle. A
soldier who has no protection for
his feet will not be able to walk very
As Christians, we need to wear
the Good News of peace. The Good
News is that Jesus died, rose from
the dead and lives today to offer
us salvation. When we accept that
God’s peace. God’s peace will help
Do you want to stand strong
against the devil today Believe and
follow Jesus. Allow God’s love and
to share the Good News about Jesus
with people you meet. —CE
God’s Armor (5)
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17
A Roman
soldier used
a shield
to protect
himself. He
used this
off arrows
shot by the enemy. Sometimes
they would be more dangerous.
Verse 16 of our Bible verses says,
“And also use the shield of faith with
which you can stop all the burning
arrows that come from the Evil
One.” What is faith Hebrews 11:1
says that faith is “what makes real
the things we hope for. It is proof of
what we cannot see.”
The devil wants to destroy our
faith in God. Every day we can
watch TV programs or read articles
on the Internet that say there is no
God. Or we may meet people who
try to convince us that the Bible
is not true. The devil wants us to
believe these lies.
Our faith in God will help us resist
these lies. When the devil tempts us
to doubt God, our faith will keep us
strong and secure. —CE
“So faith comes from hearing
the Good News. And people hear
the Good News when someone
tells them about Christ.”
Romans 10:17
PRAYER: God, thank You for
opportunities today to share the
Good News with people who do not
know Jesus. In His name. Amen.
57
“Without faith no one can
please God. Whoever comes to
God must believe that he is real
and that he rewards those who
Hebrews 11:6
PRAYER: God, thank You for helping
me resist the devil’s lies. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
Tuesday, August 19 Wednesday, August 20

God’s Armor (6)
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17
Long ago,
soldiers wore
helmets to
protect their
heads from
being injured.
Today,
soldiers still
wear helmets. Even motorcyclists
and bicyclists wear helmets to
protect themselves.
In our verses today, Paul says
that Christians should accept “God’s
salvation” as their helmet (verse
17a). A helmet protects a person’s
head and brain. In the same way,
salvation through Jesus protects our
thoughts and keeps us focused on
God and His Word.
The devil wants to tempt us to
think bad thoughts and doubt God
and His plan of salvation. But if we
remember that Jesus loves us and
died for us, we will stay close to
God.
Maybe today the devil will tempt
you to doubt that God really loves
you and wants you to be His child.
Keep remembering that Jesus died
for your sins and gave you a way to
receive eternal life. —CE
“Yes, God loved the world so much
that he gave his only Son so that
everyone who believes in him would
not be lost but have eternal life.”
John 3:16
PRAYER: Thank You, God, for Your
helmet of salvation. I want to live
forever with You. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
God’s Armor (7)
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17
Today
we will talk
about the
last piece of
God’s armor
that Paul
mentions —
the sword of
the Spirit.
Today most soldiers use guns to
soldiers used swords. Just as a
soldier needed a sword to defend
himself, Christians need the sword
of the Spirit as their weapon. But
what is the sword of the Spirit
Verse 17b of our Bible Reading says
“that sword is the teaching of God.”
In the Bible!
In Matthew, chapter 4, we read
that the devil tempted Jesus to sin.
The devil tempted Jesus three times.
Each time Jesus answered him with
a command from God’s Word. Jesus
did not sin. He used the Bible to
defeat the devil.
God’s Word is our weapon
against the devil. Study and learn
from the Bible. Then you will be
prepared to face the devil and
defeat him! —CE
“Your word is like a lamp that
guides my steps, a light that
shows the path I should take.”
Psalm 119:105
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I need
Your Word to help me be strong and
read it every day. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
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Thursday, August 21 Friday, August 22

God’s Armor (8)
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:18
The past
few days we
have talked
about God’s
armor — the
belt of truth,
the chest
protection of
right living, the Good News of peace
for our feet, the shield of faith, the
helmet of salvation and the sword of
the Spirit.
If we have all the pieces of God’s
against the devil. And our Bible
verse for today tells us some things
we need to do as God’s soldiers.
“Pray in the Spirit at all times. Pray
with all kinds of prayers, and ask for
everything you need. To do this you
must always be ready. Never give up.
Always pray for all of God’s people.”
In that verse, Paul tells us three
things — pray, be ready and never
give up. It is important that we
pray for God to help us resist the
devil and pray for people who need
to know about Jesus. We should
always be ready to obey God when
the devil tempts us. And, we need to
remember to never give up serving
God and standing strong for Him.
I hope that you are ready to serve
in God’s army today! —CE
“Wear the full armor of God. Wear
against the devil’s clever tricks.”
Ephesians 6:11
Tell the Good News
Bible Reading: Acts 20:17-28
In our
Bible Reading
today, Paul
met with the
elders from
the church
in Ephesus.
It was an
emotional meeting. Why Because
Paul was going to Jerusalem. The
Holy Spirit had told Paul that
there would be trouble for him in
Jerusalem (verse 23).
Paul did not know what would
happen to him in Jerusalem. But
he did know one thing. Paul said in
verse 24b,
that the Lord Jesus gave me to do —
to tell people the Good News about
God’s grace.”
Each of us has a daily routine of
things we do and places we go. We
know that as we go through our
day, we may face troubles. But we
should remember that the most
important thing we can do all day is
to share the Good News about Jesus
with others.
Choose today to love and serve
other people. Tell them about Jesus
and the salvation He freely gives to
them. —SH*
“I told everyone — Jewish and
non-Jewish people — to change
and turn to God. I told them
all to believe in our Lord Jesus.”
Acts 20:21
PRAYER: God, I am ready to be
devil. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
PRAYER: Father, I want to live for
Jesus today. Help me to tell others
about Him. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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Saturday, August 23 Sunday, August 24

The Church
Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 3:14-16
Some
people think
that the
church is a
building. But
our Bible
Reading
today tells
us that the church is family. “The
family is the church of the living God”
(verse 15b). Ephesians 5:25b tells
us that “Christ loved the church and
gave his life for it.” Jesus did not die
for a building! He died for people.
Verse 15b also tells us the
purpose of the church. “God’s
church is the support and foundation
of the truth.” What is this truth
It is the truth that God loves us
and made a way for our sins to be
forgiven.
Before Jesus left the earth, He
told His followers to go “everywhere
in the world. Tell the Good News
to everyone” (Mark 16:15). If you
follow and obey Jesus, you are part
of God’s church. The people in the
church work together to encourage
one another and tell the Good News
about Jesus to everyone.
What will you do today Will you
glorify and praise God by telling
people about His Son —DJH*
“...you will all be joined together.
And all together you will give glory
to God the Father of our Lord Jesus
Christ.” Romans 15:6
Trust God
Bible Reading: Acts 21:1-14
Our Bible
Reading tells
us that Paul
was traveling
to Jerusalem.
A prophet
named
Agabus told
Paul that people in Jerusalem would
tie him up and “hand him over to
people who don’t know God” (verse
11b).
The people with Paul begged him
not to go to Jerusalem. But Paul
said (verse 13), “I am willing to be
put in jail in Jerusalem. I am even
ready to die for the name of the Lord
Jesus!” Paul was not worried about
what would happen to him. He
trusted God to take care of him.
Sometimes I worry about
problems I face in my life. I think
that I have to face these problems
alone. But God is always with me.
Paul knew that he could trust God
to help him face bad situations, even
death.
Are you facing problems today
Be like Paul and give your worries
and fears to God. Trust Him to
always take care of you! —SH*
“So be humble under God’s powerful
hand. Then he will lift you up when
the right time comes. Give all your
worries to him, because he cares for
you.” 1 Peter 5:6-7
PRAYER: Dear Lord, thank You
for my family, the church. Help me
to glorify and praise You today. In
Jesus’ name. Amen.
PRAYER: Father, I give You my
worries and my fears. Help me to
face my problems today. In Jesus’
name. Amen.
60
Monday, August 25 Tuesday, August 26

Troublemaker
Bible Reading: Acts 24:1-9
In verse 5a
of our Bible
verses today,
a man named
Tertullus said,
“This man is a
troublemaker.
He causes
trouble with the Jews everywhere
in the world.” Who was Tertullus
talking about He was talking about
Paul.
Many people did not accept Paul’s
message that Jesus was God’s Son.
These people became angry and
called Paul a troublemaker. But
Paul was just telling the truth about
God’s salvation for all people. Paul
said in Acts 24:16, “This is why
I always try to do what I believe
is right before God and before
everyone.”
As Christians, we should always
do what is right. But sometimes
people do not agree with us. They
may become angry and call us
troublemakers. We may even have
bad things happen to us because we
follow Jesus.
Stand strong today for Jesus.
Remember to always do what is
right. God will be with you and give
you strength. —GT
“But if you suffer because you are a
‘Christ-follower,’ don’t be ashamed.
You should praise God for that name.”
1 Peter 4:16
God’s Plan (1)
Bible Reading: Acts 1:6-8
The book
of Acts tells
us about the
start and the
growth of
God’s church.
From the
beginning,
In our Bible Reading today, Jesus
shared that plan with the apostles.
Jesus told those men that they
would be witnesses who would tell
other people about Him. “You will
tell people everywhere about me —
in Jerusalem, in the rest of Judea, in
Samaria, and in every part of the
world” (verse 8b).
God’s plan for the church started
in the city of Jerusalem. “Those
who accepted what Peter said were
baptized. On that day about 3000
people were added to the group of
believers” (Acts 2:41).
God wants you to be a witness
and tell other people about Jesus,
too. Where do you start You may
not live in Jerusalem, but you do live
in some town or city. Start with the
people who live around you. Look
for an opportunity today to share
God’s love with a neighbor. —JK
“The believers praised God and were
respected by all the people. More
and more people were being saved
every day, and the Lord was adding
them to their group.” Acts 2:47
PRAYER: Father, give me courage
to be strong and always do what is
right. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
61
PRAYER: God, show me someone
who needs to know about Your love
today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Wednesday, August 27 Thursday, August 28

God’s Plan (2)
Bible Reading: Acts 8:1-4
In chapters
6 and 7 of Acts
we learn about
a man named
Stephen.
Stephen
preached
about Jesus.
But some people did not accept his
message. They became so angry with
Stephen that they stoned him to death.
Our Bible Reading tells us that
after Stephen was killed, some Jews
began to do bad things to Christians
in Jerusalem. These Jews “went
into their houses, dragged out men
and women, and put them in jail. All
the believers left Jerusalem. Only
the apostles stayed. The believers
went to different places in Judea and
Samaria” (verses 2 and 3).
Judea was the area surrounding
Jerusalem. When this persecution
started, many Christians moved
out of Jerusalem to other places
in Judea. Wherever these people
moved, they shared the Good News
about Jesus. In that way, the church
spread outside of Jerusalem.
Maybe you can share Jesus with
people outside the town where
you live. Ask God to lead you to
people who need to know about His
wonderful gift of salvation. —JK
“They were scattered everywhere,
and in every place they went, they
told people about the Good News.”
Acts 8:4
God’s Plan (3)
Bible Reading: Acts 8:5-25
The church
spread from
Jerusalem
throughout
Judea. Then
people began
to share
about Jesus
with people in Samaria, an area
north of Judea.
Our Bible verses tell us about
Philip who “went to the city of
Samaria and told people about the
Messiah” (verse 5). He “told the
people the Good News about God’s
kingdom and the power of Jesus
Christ. Men and women believed
Philip and were baptized” (verse 12).
When the apostles in Jerusalem
heard about this, they sent Peter
and John to Samaria, too.
Wherever Philip, Peter and
John went, they witnessed about
Jesus. Then more people became
Christians, and the church grew. You,
too, can reach outside your area with
God’s message. Share about Jesus
with people you meet when you
travel. Send a text message or e-mail
to your friends and relatives. Tell
them what Jesus has done for you.
Be like Philip, Peter and John
today. Spread the Good News about
Jesus. —JK
“Then the two apostles told the
people what they had seen Jesus do.
They told them the message of the
Lord.” Acts 8:25a
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank
You for salvation. In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
PRAYER: Lord, wherever I go today,
I want to tell people about Jesus. In
His name. Amen.
62
Friday, August 29 Saturday, August 30

God’s Plan (4)
Bible Reading: Acts 1:6-8
The last
part of God’s
plan for His
church was to
go to “every
part of the
world” (verse
8b). The rest
of the book of Acts tells us how the
twelve apostles and Paul spread the
Good News throughout the world.
Paul made three trips around
the Roman Empire to tell Jews and
non-Jews about Jesus. Paul was
a missionary — someone who is
sent to share God’s message. Paul
faced many hard times, but God was
always with him.
We, too, have a responsibility to
share Jesus with the whole world.
But maybe you are thinking, “I can’t
travel around the world. How can I
share Jesus” One way is for you to
support missionaries who are serving
in other countries. You can pray for
Also, you may be able to go on a
short-term mission trip to another
country or a mission in your own
country. Let God help you be a part of
His plan to save the whole world. —JK
“So go and make followers of all
people in the world. Baptize them in
the name of the Father and the Son
and the Holy Spirit. Teach them to
obey everything that I have told you
to do.” Matthew 28:19-20a
PRAYER: Father, I want the whole
world to know about You and Jesus.
In His name. Amen.
63
Sunday, August 31
GOD’S WORKERS
names of people who worked to spread
the Good News about Jesus. If you need
help, look at the devotion for the date that
is listed. (The answers are at the bottom
of page 64.)
1. LASRIPCIL (July 10)
___________________
2. LUAP (June 27)
___________________
3. LASSI (July 19)
___________________
4. AYDIL (July 8)
___________________
5. NOJH (July 24)
___________________
6. YRMA (July 1)
___________________
7. RABBANSA (June 29)
__________________
8. TREEP (May 1)
__________________
9. HIPLPI (July 28)
__________________
10. ATHBAIT (July 5)
__________________

Authors
Thanks to these people who wrote devotions for this issue. Their initials appear at the
end of the devotion(s) which they wrote. Those marked by an asterisk (*) are known
to be deaf or hard-of-hearing persons.
BH
BL
BP*
CE
CPE*
DB*
DJH*
DK
DVH*
ECW
ED*
GB
GT
JA*
JD*
JK
JL*
JP*
LL
MC*
MH*
MS
NM
NW
PD
RK*
SAH
SH*
VLD
VNW
—Bonnie Hall—Marion, IN
—Bob La Forge—Freehold, NJ
—Brenda Palmigiano—Rochester, NY
—Corban Entinger—Glenwood, IA
—Chad P. Entinger—Deaf Missions Staff
—Dallas Brock—**DMTC Student
—Donna J. Howard—Orfordville, WI
—Debbie Klahn—Gillespie, IL
—Donna Valverde-Hummel—Austin, TX
—Eileen C. Wood—Loganville, GA
—Elissa Duncan—**DMTC Student
—Kennewick, WA
—Gayle Thorn—Wayne, OH
—Joseph Abenchuchan—**DMTC Student
—Jill Duncan—**DMTC Student
—Jo Krueger—Deaf Missions Staff
—James Lohman—Hopkins, MO
—Joseph Pfaff—**DMTC Student
—Linda Lamb—**DMTC Student
—Milton Cabrera—**DMTC Student
—Michael Harper—**DMTC Student
—Mistie Suhr—**DMTC Student
—Norma Mezoe—Sandborn, IN
—Naomi Wiederkehr—Berne, IN
—Pam Davis—Oak Grove, LA
—Ron Kachachian—Pasadena, CA
—Suzanne Austin-Hill—Ruskin, FL
—Steve Husting—Fountain Valley, CA
—Vicki L. Drummond—Gillespie, IL
—V. Neil Wyrick—Miami, FL
**Deaf Missions Training Center
Answers to page 63: 1) Priscilla; 2) Paul; 3) Silas; 4) Lydia;
5) John; 6) Mary; 7) Barnabas; 8) Peter; 9) Philip; 10) Tabitha.
64