Christmas Family Devotional 2025, Week Four: God’s Kingdom Will Come – “The Returning King”

Week Number Four

God’s Kingdom Will Come – “The Returning King”

Scripture: 

Note- Today is two portions that flow together in the Bible.

Revelation 20:11–15:  “11 Then I saw a great white throne and him who was seated on it. From his presence earth and sky fled away, and no place was found for them. 12 And I saw the dead, great and small, standing before the throne, and books were opened. Then another book was opened, which is the book of life. And the dead were judged by what was written in the books, according to what they had done. 13 And the sea gave up the dead who were in it, Death and Hades gave up the dead who were in them, and they were judged, each one of them, according to what they had done. 14 Then Death and Hades were thrown into the lake of fire. This is the second death, the lake of fire. 15 And if anyone's name was not found written in the book of life, he was thrown into the lake of fire.”

Revelation 21:1-5: “Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. 2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. 4 He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” 5 And he who was seated on the throne said, “Behold, I am making all things new.” Also he said, “Write this down, for these words are trustworthy and true.”

The life and mission of Jesus began with the manger, and it did not end with the cross or even His Resurrection back from the dead to life. It continues with God's promise that one day Jesus will return—not as a humble baby, but as the conquering King who will rule and judge the world. This is the hope we cling to: Jesus will make all things right. Every injustice, every pain, every tear will be answered when He comes again. We will also have to give an account before God for how we lived our life, followers of Jesus and those who do not follow him.

At Christmas, we celebrate His first coming, when He came in humility to save us. But we also look forward to His second coming, when He will come in glory to reign forever. The sweet baby in the manger is also the powerful King of Kings!

This truth reminds us that our lives are not just about today. They are about eternity. Jesus will return to judge the living and the dead, and those who belong to Him will live with Him forever in His perfect kingdom. That’s why Christmas is more than just a holiday—it’s a reminder of the greatest hope we have: Jesus is coming again!

Discussion Questions

• How does it make you feel to know Jesus will return as King of Kings? Excited, fearful or something else?
• Why do you think God chose for Jesus to come first in humility and later in glory?
• What does it mean to live today with eternity in mind? What would you change about how you are living now?
• How can you share the hope of Jesus’ return with someone who feels hopeless or discouraged?

Prayer

Pray together as a family. Take turns speaking out who He is and why He is good to us. Thank God for sending Jesus the first time to save us, and thank Him for the promise that Jesus will return again. Ask Him to help you live with hope and courage, knowing that Jesus is the King who will make all things right. Pray for those who don’t yet know Him, that they would be ready for His return and find joy in His kingdom.

(All content copyright Mark Taft.)

Christmas Family Devotional 2025, Week Three: God’s Love Is Stronger – “From the Manger to the Cross”

Week Three of Four

God’s Love Is Stronger – “From the Manger to the Cross”

Scripture: John 3:16–17  

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.”

The Christmas story doesn’t end with the baby in the manger. It's only the beginning of the world's greatest story! The manger points to the cross Jesus would die on to save us. That's the most important piece of the story and the one that is often forgotten. 

The whole Bible points to this very big truth and then what happens when Jesus returns to judge and rule the world. The story is an adventure and a mystery at times, but most importantly, it is a love story about the One True God who loves the people He created. That's me, you, and the people on this earth.

Jesus died in place of you! Yes, that’s how much God loves you. He saw how our sin hurts the people He loves. He saw how it hurts us, too! He saw the brokenness in our world—the hate, the fear, the ways of living that bring pain to His heart. He knew He had to step in because we couldn't fix any of it. Without Him, we'd be totally lost. We'd have no hope, no purpose, no joy. And our eternal future would be pretty awful!

When we look at Jesus, we see the Father’s love in action. It’s not a distant, “maybe someday” kind of love. It’s real, personal, and strong enough to change our lives.  He is the very definition of love, and He is the Conquering King who will return to earth one day! 

Discussion Questions

• What does God’s love shown through Jesus mean to you personally?
• If you really believed God’s love is that strong, how might it change the way you live, the way you treat others—or yourself?
• Who in your life needs to see this kind of love through you this Christmas? How can you show it?
• Who do you know that needs to understand this story about why God sent Jesus to the earth? Try practicing how to tell them.

Prayer

Describe back to God all His characteristics. Tell Him why you love Him. Then ask Him to give you strength to live for Him. Think about the people you know who do not know Him. Talk to God about them by name, and ask Him to show them who He is and how much He loves them.

(All content copyright Mark Taft.)

Christmas Family Devotional 2025, Week Two: God Keeps His Promises – “The Plan All Along”

Week Two of Four

God Keeps His Promises – “The Plan All Along”

Scripture: Matthew 1:21–23 

“She will bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins. … and they shall call his name Immanuel (which means, God with us).”

Long before Jesus was born- in fact all the way back to the beginning of history- in the book of Genesis in Chapter 3, God promised that He would send someone to rescue people from their sin. He himself would pay the penalty we should be paying for its consequences. God himself loved us so much that He decided to fix the problem. All through history, people waited and even at times wondered if God would really follow through with what He said He would do. Those people whose hearts trusted God pleased Him, and they were seen as being in right standing with God even before Jesus showed up on the earth.

True to His word, Jesus the perfect sacrifice for our sin, did show up and right on time. His name “Immanuel” means God with us. That’s huge! It means God didn’t just send someone else to clean us our big mess; He came and did it Himself. No one else in Heaven or on Earth could do what Jesus accomplished! Jesus didn’t show up just to be a nice teacher or do miracles. He came to take away sin—the stuff in our hearts and the bad choices we make that separates us from God. He alone bring us back into a right relationship with Him.

God’s plan was always to rescue, not reject. That’s who He is: a Father who keeps His promises and does whatever it takes to bring His children home. What it took was living a perfect life and then going even further to die on a cross for our sin. Who else could have done that? No one!

Discussion Questions

• What does it mean to you that God is “with us”? How does this change or affect the way you live?
• Can you think of a time when it was hard to trust someone to keep a promise? How is God different?
• Has God given you a promise from the Bible? Have you seen it happen yet? How do you feel about that?
• How could you reflect God’s faithfulness by being someone others can count on?

Prayer

Stop and Thank God for who He is and what He accomplished. Tell Him the things that are on your heart- what you want and need from Him. Then tell Him the things you've done wrong or some of the bad thoughts you've had. Ask Him to forgive you and to give you strength to live in a way that pleases Him.

(All content copyright Mark Taft.)

Christmas Family Devotional 2025, Week One: God Shows His Heart – “The Gift in a Manger”

The period of preparation for Christmas Day has always seemed to us the right time to try new ways of drawing our kids to Jesus. This happened year round too, but seemed so much more relevant when the season is sometimes focused on everything but what is most important and eternal. We realized that all too often, our kids would see us busy with activity and busyness. Shopping, decorating, and cooking, in addition to all the parties and gatherings we attend, kept us very busy. Although it was all fun, it was a lot of work- especially for the Moms! 

Taking our eyes off the true reason for family celebration, we often fell into a trap of anger, impatience, and frustration. There was a sense of deep struggle as we tried make sure our kids really understood that all these things only point to a greater event- the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We thought, "How can this change?", so we put together these Family Devotionals. We've been sharing these on line now for many years as a source of encouragement to you.

We've set this up so that the devotional is split into four segments, with the final one giving you many days before Christmas morning to complete it all. Part Two will arrive here on the blog December 8. Part Three hits a week later on the 15th, and the final part December 22.

Our goal as parents is to train our children in the ways of the Lord and to see our children own a personal, ongoing, life-changing relationship with God. If you want to use this with your children, grandchildren, or children you love, consider these suggestions:  

1.  Make this doable. Try to commit to a family devotional time.  Decide on a practical time. Avoid setting yourself up for failure. Adjust it as necessary so they enjoy the time- but also expect some “pushback”.  Remember, it’s about the relationship not the accomplishment. Guard against any discouragement if it doesn’t go as well as you wish, and be sure to guard against pride if it does.

2. Print this and keep this devotional on the dinner table. Explain to your kids why the book is there. Someone is bound to remember.

3. Model praying for your kids. It will be easier for them if they follow your lead. Praise and confession may be vague terms for younger ones. Explain the words. Start simply: “Lord, I praise you for being the God who loves us”, or   “I confess  I was mean to my sister today. Forgive me for hurting her feelings”.

4. Be honest with your family what you are praying for including your own sin and weakness. It models prayer to them as well as keeps you accountable.

5. If you have older children, allow them to share the responsibility of reading the verses. Leading them to Him is the goal. 

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Week One of Four

God Shows His Heart – “The Gift in a Manger”

Scripture: Luke 2:10–11

“And the angel said to them, ‘Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.’”

Imagine you’re one of the shepherds that night. You're just out there doing your job, looking after sheep. You think no one is paying attention to you or even appreciates your hard work. Suddenly the sky lights up with angels announcing good news of great joy. That’s not something that happens every night!

This “Good News” wasn’t just about a baby being born—it was about what that baby meant and the mission He came to accomplish. He was a touchable God! Through Jesus, God was showing His heart. He wasn’t distant or angry. He wasn’t unreachable. God the Father wanted the world to know that He cares deeply, loves completely, and came to pay the price for our sin. My sin. Your sin. All this so we can live in harmony with Him now. And we can spend eternity with Him instead of being separated from Him.  

Think about that! The Creator of the Universe came to us in the most gentle, humble way possible. If we were the ones to choose how God would make his presence on the earth known, we might want Him to come in a great show of power. But not the God who created all things. He had a different and much better idea! That’s what God is like—He comes close when we need Him most- and His ideas are always better than ours.

When we look at Jesus, we see what God the Father is really like too. Jesus is kind, patient, forgiving, full of compassion and willing to sacrifice on our behalf. That’s God’s heart too.

Discussion Questions

• Why do you think God chose to send Jesus as a baby instead of as a powerful king or warrior?
• What does it show you about God’s character that He wanted to be close to us?
• How can you show God’s kindness to someone who might feel left out or overlooked this week?
• Who can you tell about Jesus and his wonderful plan for us?

Prayer

Stop and pray together as a family. Thank God for who he is. Then, stop and thank him for his wonderful gift! 

(All content copyright Mark Taft.)

Christmas Family Devotional

Oh come let us adore Him! The Christmas 2024 family devotional is here. Brand new look but same amazing God that rules the universe. May you and your family find this a wonderful tool during the season. 

 

Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things! 

His right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him.

     The Lord has made known his salvation;

he has revealed his righteousness in the sight of the nations.

    He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness

to the house of Israel.

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;

break forth into joyous song and sing praises!

Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, 

with the lyre and the sound of melody!

With trumpets and the sound of the horn 

make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!

Let the sea roar, and all that fills it;

the world and those who dwell in it! Let the rivers clap their hands;

let the hills sing for joy together before the Lord, 

for he comes to judge the earth.

He will judge the world with righteousness, 

and the peoples with equity.

Psalm 98

This psalm is the teaching focal point. God Himself and the birth of Jesus Christ is the ultimate focus! 

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JESUS IS REVEALED!

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving:     Read Luke 2:1-20 together.

Points to talk about:

• God is in control of world events and uses them for His purposes.

This includes fulfilling prophecies from the Old Testament.

• God uses our lives for his purposes even when it looks different

than what we want.

Ask your children what Jesus means to them during this season of life. How has God watched over them? How has He taken care of them in good and difficult times?

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for Who He Is.

An example of their praise might be, “Father, I praise you for sending Jesus to us!”

or “God, thank you that I can trust you even when I’m afraid, sad, or things don’t make sense!”

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Oh sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things! 

His right hand and his holy arm have worked salvation for him. 

The Lord has made known his salvation;

he has revealed his righteousness in the sight of the nations. He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness to the house of Israel.

All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Psalm 98:1-3

Time of Prayer: Read Psalm 98:1-3 (above).

Points for consideration from Psalm 98 and Luke 2:

• If God tells us He will do something, nothing is impossible for

Him!

• How can you treasure in your heart the things God has done?

Pray together using these points as a place to begin. Encourage them to pray from their hearts rather than what they think might please you.

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JESUS' MESSAGE BRINGS CHALLENGES! 

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth; 

break forth into joyous song and sing praises!

Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre, 

with the lyre and the sound of melody!

With trumpets and the sound of the horn

make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!

Psalm 98:4-6

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving: Read Luke 4:1-21 together.

Points for consideration:

• The Enemy of God will work to stop God’s plan that many will know Him (2 Corinthians 4:4). He even tried to get Jesus to stray from what God wanted.

Turn to Isaiah 61 and read verses 1 and 2. Jesus fulfilled this prophecy as well!

Isaiah 61 verse 3 tells us those who love God will receive comfort, joy, and praise.

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for His faithfulness to His Word.
An example of their praise might be, “Jesus, I praise you for doing what you promised!”

or “Thank you Jesus for being the one who was obedient to the Father even when it was hard!”

Time of Prayer:
Read John 14:15-21, then Luke 11:13, and 2 Timothy 1:7.

Talk about how these verses work together in the life of someone who loves Jesus and belongs to Him.

Points for consideration:

• God’s enemy will work against us being obedient, too. What could

  this look like?

• How and why should we praise God when things are difficult?

• The Bible teaches that God has placed His power in us by giving us

  His Holy Spirit. His power enables us to know God’s deep love for us and to give us what we need to live a life that pleases Him. What parts of my life need me to rely on God instead of my own strength?

• Do you believe what you have read in the Bible? Why or why not?

  Pray together. Pray that they would rely on God to know and follow His Ways. Pray for others in your family to stray strong in God and to do the same.

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  JESUS' MESSAGE IS FOR EVERYONE!

  Let the sea roar, and all that fills it; 

  the world and those who dwell in it! 

  Let the rivers clap their hands;

  let the hills sing for joy together before the Lord, 

  for he comes to judge the earth.

  He will judge the world with righteousness,

  and the peoples with equity. 

  Psalm 98:7-9

  Parents: Please note the following discusses God’s coming judgment. While this puts the Christmas story in its proper perspective, you alone must decide if your children are ready to hear the full reason why the Good News is truly the Good News.

  Read Revelation 20:11-15. Then read Matthew 28:16-20 and Revelation 7:9-10 together. Discuss these verses.

  Points for consideration:

  • Do you believe that this New Testament prophecy of God will also

  be fulfilled?

  • God tells us that we all have sinned and deserve death, but God’s

  gift is eternal life for those who believe in Jesus (Romans 3:23,

  6:23). Does this include you? Why or why not?

  • Now read Luke 2:8-14. God is worthy of our praise!

  Lead the children to thank Him for revealing this “Good News of Great Joy”. They may say, “Thank you, Jesus, for what you accomplished on the cross!” or perhaps “Father, I praise you for the gift of Jesus!” Ask your children to pray as God leads them.

  Time of Prayer:  Read John 3:16-17 and 2 Peter 3:9 together.

  Points for consideration:

  • What do these tell us about God’s heart toward people? Does your

  heart match his?

  • Just as Jesus traveled to share the message and sent out others to

  do the same, we also must go in obedience. The message hasn’t changed nor has God’s command to go.

  Pray together. Ask God to help you be obedient to share His Good News and to go where He leads you- across the street, throughout our country, or even to distant places on the earth!

  (Copyright Mark Taft.)

Christmas Family Devotional 2023 - Week One

The period of preparation for Christmas Day has always seemed to us the right time to try new ways of drawing our kids to Jesus.  All too often, they would see us busy with so many preparations such as shopping, decorating, and cooking, in addition to all the parties and gatherings we attend. This can all lead us to impatience, frustration, and a sense of struggle as we try to be sure our kids really understand that all these things only point to a greater event- the birth of Our Lord Jesus Christ. We thought, "How can this change?", so we put together this Family Devotional. And we share it with you in hope that it will be an encouragement to you.

Our goal as parents is to train our children in the ways of the Lord and to see our children own a personal, ongoing, life-changing relationship with God. We go to great lengths, but all our striving may not break through and put a child’s hand in God’s. Knowing Him and His Ways through the Word is very important, and it is by the moving of His Holy Spirit and earnest prayer that God breaks the barriers that exist. As we also teach them the priority of intimate worship and honest prayer,  God moves within their hearts.

During the Christmas season, kids may be drawn to singing His praises. They may even offer up prayers of thanksgiving. Yet prayers of confession are often absent. Softened hearts come through times of confession as their need for Him becomes evident. This devotional emphasizes those three steps of prayer: praise, confession, and thanksgiving. As we train our children, we must rely on God to move on their behalf. If it’s our attitude that we will gain God’s approval through our efforts, we risk religiosity. Our goal is to humbly teach our children to “draw near to the Lord” (James 4:8). All this begins with us modeling it for them.

If you want to use it with your children or children you love, this devotional begins today and concludes at the end of the month. Some suggestions:  

1. Make this doable. Try to commit to a family devotional time, perhaps three times per ten days. Decide on a practical time. Avoid setting yourself up for failure. Adjust it as necessary so they enjoy the time- but also expect some “pushback”.  Remember, it’s about the relationship not the accomplishment. Guard against any discouragement if it doesn’t go as well as you wish, and be sure to guard against pride if it does.

2. Keep this devotional on the dinner table. Explain to your kids why the book is there. Someone is bound to remember.

3. Model praying for your kids. It will be easier for them if they follow your lead. Praise and confession may be vague terms for younger ones. Explain the words. Start simply: “Lord, I praise you for being the God who loves us”, or   “I confess  I was mean to my sister today. Forgive me for hurting her feelings”.

4. Be honest with your family what you are praying for including your own sin and weakness. It models prayer to them as well as keeps you accountable.

5. Try a family worship time. Child friendly songs don’t need to be childlike, they just need easy to understand lyrics. Train your child to express love to God and not just sing songs about Him. Remember, it is about them growing in a real relationship with Our Creator in addition to the importance of understanding theology. After your worship time, explain phrases they may not understand, i.e. what does “Awesome God” mean?

6. If you have older children, allow them to share the responsibility of reading the verses. Leading them to Him is the goal. 


7. As they grow in praise, confession, and thanksgiving, expect them to get excited about  their relationship with our Living God.  This overflow from their heart will lead then to share Him with others. 

December 1 – 10

Time of Praise
Read Psalm 63:1-8 together.
How do we earnestly seek God?
How does God satisfy us?
What does it mean to say God’s right hand upholds me?

Lead the children to pray. An example of their praise might be, “Father, you keep our family safe.  I praise you for being a strong God.” Encourage them to pray from their hearts rather than what they think might please you.

Time of Confession
Read James 5:16 together.
What is the action James is calling for?
What does confession mean?
Can confession be done with only our mouths and not our heart? Why?

Lead the children to pray. An example of confession night be, “Lord, I spoke in a rude way to my mother today. I’m sorry for being disrespectful. Help me to be kind.” Be sure they will clearly say in statement form what they did wrong. This will teach them to be responsible for their own mistakes and point them to their need for Jesus. Encourage your children to pray   for you and other members of the family who are doing this devotional time together.  Think of it as a small group gathering!

Time of Thanksgiving
Read Colossians 3:15-17 together.
How can we keep a thankful attitude?
Do you feel closer to God when you are grateful or when you are grumpy?
Name three things you are thankful for in your life.

Lead children to pray. An example of their thanksgiving may be, “Father, thank you for a Mom and Dad who love me.” Again, encourage them to speak what’s on their hearts rather than words that we long to hear.

I pray this devotional is a blessing to your family!

Watch this blog for the next two installments of the devotional.

(Copyright Mark Taft.)

Christmas Family Devotional 2022 - Week Three

Here is the third and final week of the Christmas Family Devotional for 2022. I hope this has been a blessing for you and your kids! Go to these links if you need the first or second week's material.

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December 21 - 31

Time of Praise
Open the book of Psalms together.
Show your children how often the word “praise” appears.
Lead prayers and statements of praise. It’s ok if they repeat your words. They are learning by your example. 

Time of Confession
Read 1 John 1:9 and Psalms 103:11, 12 together.
Point out that a perfect love like God’s can only truly wipe out our sins so that they are not held against us. This is hard for all of us to believe.

Model a prayer that God builds a humble spirit in them, making them willing to confess their sins, and trains them to look to God as their only true source of forgiveness.


Time of Thanksgiving
Read Psalms136 together.
Encourage your kids to repeat the line “His love endures forever” each time they hear it read. As you do this with them, pray that a true heart of thanksgiving grows in their hearts.

Lead children to ask God to build a sincere gratefulness in their hearts.

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I hope this has blessed you and your family as you celebrate the real reason for this season! 

(Devotional copyright Mark Taft. Image copyright The Stencil Revolution.)

Christmas Family Devotional 2022 - Week Two

Here is the second week of 2022's Christmas Family Devotional. If you need the first week, you can go here.

December 11 – 20

Time of Praise
Read Psalm 100 together.
What does it mean to know the Lord is God?
How can we enter into His gates and His courts?
Lead children in statements of praise. Remind them that we praise God even when we don’t feel good.

Time of Confession
Read Hebrews 4:12-16 together.
Initiate a discussion so children understand that sin is not always a visible action. It also involves what we say and what we think. We can sin in our hearts with rebellion and defiance as well.

Lead the children to pray with an emphasis on confessing the sins of their hearts, (envy or resentment, etc.), or the sin of knowing what God says to do but not taking action.

Time of Thanksgiving
Read Philippians 4:12-13 together.
Discuss the connection between gratefulness and contentedness.
Talk about the things kids are thankful for that are not material goods. You might have them talk about the traits of their family members and friends for which they are thankful.


Lead children to pray by beginning the prayer time. Keep your prayers simple and easy to understand. Encourage kids to talk to God with whatever is on their hearts. Steer them to thanksgiving with your prayers.

The final devotional will be posted on December 21. 

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(Devotional copyright Mark Taft. Image copyright The Stencil Revolution.) 

2021 Christmas Family Devotional- Week Three: December 21-31

December 21 – 31    Jesus’ Message is For Everyone

 

Let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
    the world and those who dwell in it!
Let the rivers clap their hands;
    let the hills sing for joy together
 before the Lord, for he comes
    to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with righteousness,
    and the peoples with equity.

Psalm 98:7-9

 

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Parents: Please note the following discusses God’s coming judgment. While this puts the Christmas story in its proper perspective, you alone must decide if your children are ready     to hear the full reason why the Good News is truly the Good News. 

 

Read Revelation 20:11-15. Then read Matthew 28:16-20 and Revelation 7:9-10 together.  Discuss these verses.

Points for consideration:

·       Do you believe that this New Testament prophecy of God will also be fulfilled?

·       God tells us that we all have sinned and deserve death, but God’s gift is eternal life for those who believe in Jesus (Romans 3:23, 6:23). Does this include you? Why or why not?

·       Now read Luke 2:8-14.  God is worthy of our praise!

 

Lead the children to thank Him for revealing this “Good News of Great Joy”.  They may say, “Thank you, Jesus, for what you accomplished on the cross!” or perhaps “Father, I praise you for the gift of Jesus!”  Ask your children to pray as God leads them.

 

Time of Prayer

Read John 3:16-17 and 2 Peter 3:9 together. 

Points for consideration:

·       What do these tell us about God’s heart toward people? Does your heart match his?

·       Just as Jesus traveled to share the message and sent out others to do the same, we also must go in obedience.  The message hasn’t changed nor has God’s command to go.

 

Pray together. Ask God to help you be obedient to share His Good News and to go where He leads you- across the street, throughout our country, or even to distant places on the earth!

(Copyright Mark Taft.)

 

 

2021 Christmas Family Devotional- Week Two: December 11-20

December 11 – 20    Jesus’ Message Brings Challenges

 

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;
    break forth into joyous song and sing praises!
Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre,
    with the lyre and the sound of melody!
With trumpets and the sound of the horn
    make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!

Psalm 98:4-6

 

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Read Luke 4:1-21 together.

Points for consideration:

·       The Enemy of God will work to stop God’s plan that many will know Him (2 Corinthians 4:4).  He even tried to get Jesus to stray from what God wanted.

·        Turn to Isaiah 61 and read verses 1 and 2.  Jesus fulfilled this prophecy as well!

·         Isaiah 61 verse 3 tells us those who love God will receive comfort, joy, and praise.

 

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for His faithfulness to His Word.  

An example of their praise might be, “Jesus, I praise you for doing what you promised!” 

or  “Thank you Jesus for being the one who was obedient to the Father even when it was hard!”

 

Time of Prayer 

Read John 14:15-21, then Luke 11:13, and 2 Timothy 1:7.

Talk about how these verses work together in the life of someone who loves Jesus and belongs to Him. 

 

Points for consideration:

·       God’s enemy will work against us being obedient, too.  What could this look like?

·       How and why should we praise God when things are difficult?

·       The Bible teaches that God has placed His power in us by giving us His Holy Spirit. His power enables us to know God’s deep love for us and to give us what we need to live a life that pleases Him. What parts of my life need me to rely on God instead of my own strength? 

·       Do you believe what you have read in the Bible? Why or why not?

 

Pray together. Pray that they would rely on God to know and follow His Ways. Pray for others in your family to stray strong in God and to do the same.

(Copyright Mark Taft.) 

2021 Christmas Family Devotional- Week One: December 1-10

Thought I would share with you something I put together to be a blessing to you, your families, and your friends. Jesus is the true focus of Christmas in our lives and in our hearts, years back, so I started thinking it would be nice to have a devotional geared toward families that they could read and reflect on the season. Here's the first part of the 2021 edition, with part two appearing on December 11, and part three coming on 

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Here's Psalm 98, the focus of this year's devotion:

Oh sing to the Lord a new song,
for he has done marvelous things!
His right hand and his holy arm
    have worked salvation for him.
 The Lord has made known his salvation;
    he has revealed his righteousness in the sight of the nations.
 He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness
    to the house of Israel.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth;
    break forth into joyous song and sing praises!
 Sing praises to the Lord with the lyre,
    with the lyre and the sound of melody!
 With trumpets and the sound of the horn
    make a joyful noise before the King, the Lord!

Let the sea roar, and all that fills it;
    the world and those who dwell in it!
 Let the rivers clap their hands;
    let the hills sing for joy together
 before the Lord, for he comes to judge the earth.
He will judge the world with righteousness, and the peoples with equity.

 

Psalm 98

December 1 – 10           Jesus is Revealed!

Oh sing to the Lord a new song,
for he has done marvelous things!
His right hand and his holy arm
    have worked salvation for him.
 The Lord has made known his salvation;
    he has revealed his righteousness in the sight of the nations.
 He has remembered his steadfast love and faithfulness
    to the house of Israel.
All the ends of the earth have seen the salvation of our God.

Psalm 98:1-3 

 

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Read Luke 2:1-20 together.  

Points to talk about:

·       God is in control of world events and uses them for His purposes. This includes fulfilling prophecies from the Old Testament.

·       God uses our lives for his purposes even when it looks different than what we want.

 

Ask your children what Jesus means to them during this season of life.  How has God watched over them? How has He taken care of them in good and difficult times?

 

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for Who He Is. 

An example of their praise might be, “Father, I praise you for sending Jesus to us!” 

or  “God, thank you that I can trust you even when I’m afraid, sad, or things don’t make sense!”

 

Time of Prayer

Read Psalm 98:1-3 (above).

Points for consideration from Psalm 98 and Luke 2:

·       If God tells us He will do something, nothing is impossible for Him!

·       How can you treasure in your heart the things God has done?

 

 

Pray together using these points as a place to begin. Encourage them to pray from their hearts rather than what they think might please you.

(Copyright Mark Taft.)