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 2023- Week Three

Our final devotional for the year should not be the last one. God is good all the time, and focusing on Him each day brings peace, joy, and hope in a world that is sorely lacking in all three. How our hearts long for a connection with our Heavenly Father! 

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 Psalms 136 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 thanksgiving grows in their hearts.

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

____________

May God bless you this Christmas season with the greatest gift- 

a strengthened relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, the One who paid the price for your sin by dying on the cross in your place.

(Devotional copyright Mark Taft.)

Christmas Family Devotional- Week Two

For our second week of the Christmas Family Devotional for 2023, you'll begin again with a time of thanking God for His goodness and faithfulness as well as for all He has done in your life. It's a great discipline to practice as you continue on in your life! Our world would love to remove a heart of gratefulness from us as well as teach us we must rely on ourselves to have a life that is rich and meaningful. God's ways are different! As His children, our primary goal is to bless Him and bring Him glory. Hearts are more open this time of years. Ours should be open to Him daily.

 

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.

We will see you again on December 21 for the final installment of this year's Christmas devotional. Bless. you!

(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.

-------

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. 

------

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

Christmas Family Devotional 2022 - Week One

When we were young parents, 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.

Come back on December 11 for the following week's devotional and again on the 21st for the final week.

____________

May God bless you this Christmas season with the greatest gift- 

a strengthened relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ, the One who paid the price for your sin by dying on the cross in your place.

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

Christmas Family Devotional 2019

Are you looking for a way to share the Biblical Truth of this Christmas season with the people you love? I know I'm always looking for something.  I want to take the time to put an end to the holiday madness, slow down, and stop to ponder the real meaning of the Christmas Season. I've written an easy to read and share Family Christmas Devotional that is especially geared toward families but without talking down to the children. May you find it useful!

The key Bible verse you and your family will explore throughout the month in light of the Christmas Story is

We will tell the next generation

the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord,

    his power, and the wonders he has done.

Psalm 78:4

Here's some hints before you begin:

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”.  If you miss a time, just pick another! Remember, it’s about the relationship not the accomplishment.   Guard against discouragement if it doesn’t go well, and be sure to guard against pride if it does.

2. If you print this out, keep this devotional on the dinner table. Explain to your kids why it is there. Someone is bound to remember.

3. Talk about the ideas shared as your read God’s Word. Check for understanding by asking good questions and by explaining words that can sound confusing. Next, have a conversation about ways to apply what has been read. Knowledge of the Bible is empty and meaningless unless we do what it says.  (See James 1:22-25). 

4. Model praying for your kids, speaking simply and using words easy for them to understand. It will be easier for them to pray from their heart if they hear you do this.  

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. This is part of them growing in a real relationship with Our Creator. After your worship time, explain phrases they may not understand or interpret differently, i.e. what does “God reigns” mean?

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

7. As they grow in understanding and application of God’s Word, expect them to get excited about their relationship with our Living God.  This overflow from their heart will lead them to share Him with others. 

Ready? Here you go. One page of reading and questions to consider for each ten day period of the month.

December 1 – 10           God’s Praiseworthy Deeds

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Read Isaiah 9:1-7 together.  

Paraphrase or use only verses 6 and 7 if your children are very young.

Next, read Luke 1:26-38 together. Paraphrase the story or use only verses 26-33 if appropriate.

Points for consideration:

• From the beginning of creation, God has wanted personal relationship with the people He made. 

• God desires to look after His People, and He hears the prayers of his children. 

• God always keeps His Promises- even when it looks different than what we think.

Is it not amazing that the God of all creation chooses to reveal Himself throughout history? Share other examples of God making himself known to His people. Ask your children about the names of God used here. What do they mean?

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 you will rule forever! There is no one like you!”

Time of Prayer

Reread Luke 1:37-38.

Points for consideration:

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

• Mary responded in humble obedience. God’s plan may not have been her plan, but she happily submitted to His Plan and trusted Him with her life. 

This brought God glory!

Ask your children what they are concerned about. What do they think about at night? What do they ask God? Have they chosen to give their lives to Him? If they have, are they willing to live their lives as He leads them? How are their lives bringing Him glory? Discuss what this means.

Pray together. Encourage them to pray from their hearts rather than what they think might please you.

December 11 – 20          God’s Power

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Read Luke 2:1-7 together.

Points for consideration:

• God is powerful! He even orchestrates world events so that they are in line with His Plan.

• World leaders – presidents, kings, and those in government- are placed in positions of authority by God. (See Romans 13)

• God is powerful! God placed Jesus in Joseph’s human family because he was part of David’s family.

Is it not amazing that God intentionally places people in families and in jobs for His Purposes? Why has He put you in your family? How have you seen God use your family in a way that shows God to the people around you? 

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for His power. An example of their praise might be, “Father, I praise you for putting me in this family!” or  “Thank you Father for being the one who watches over every aspect of our lives!”

Time of Prayer  

Read Ephesians 3:14-21 together. 

Then read 2 Peter 1:3. Summarize or clarify these verses for understanding.

Points for consideration:

• Jesus lives in our hearts through faith. It is not our work that earns us a place in God’s family and in heaven. How will live our lives is a result of His love in our hearts. 

• God has placed His power in us by giving us His Holy Spirit. This power enables us to know God’s deep love for us and gives us what we need to live a life that pleases Him.

Ask your children if they belong to Him and why. Ask if they understand God’s love. Ask them how this is reflected in the way they live. Where have they seen God give them what they need to live in a manner that pleases Him? Are we being obedient to Him?

Pray together. Pray that they would rely on God to know and follow His Ways. Pray for our leaders that they would follow His ways.  

December 21 – 31          The Wonders He Has Done

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

(A NOTE TO PARENTS: Before covering this section with your children, consider reviewing Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 as well as Romans Chapter 3:21-23 and 10:9-11.)

Read Luke 2:8-20 together.  

Points for consideration:

• The event of Jesus’ birth was so important, God sent angels to announce it. This is the most wonderful event of all time! He came to pay the price for our sin!

• Jesus is God made flesh. He and the Father are One. (John 8:58-9; Colossians 2:9) 

• Jesus is the only way to eternal life. (John 14:6) 

Why did God send Jesus to the earth? Discuss the answer to this question.

Imagine being a shepherd in the field and seeing what they saw and hearing what the heard! What would be your reaction? What would you think? What would you say and do?

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for revealing this “Good News of Great Joy”.  

They might say, “Father, I praise you for the gift of Jesus!” 

Time of Prayer

Read John 14:6 together.  Then read John 3:16-17. Finally, read Luke 2:19.  

Points for consideration:

• Because He loves us so much and wants everyone to know the truth, Jesus makes it very clear He is the only way to Heaven. 

• Mary heard the words the shepherds shared about the angels and probably thought of the angel Gabriel who visited her earlier. She treasured these words and thought deeply about them.

Ask your children to define sin. Ask how they have sinned. Check for understanding of Jesus’ words in John 14:6.  What does the Way, the Truth, and the Life mean? Discuss Romans 10:9-11.

Pray together. Ask them to confess their sin and turn away from it and to Jesus for forgiveness and the gift of eternal life. Then, pray for them that they would rely on God to know and follow His Ways. Encourage them to be like Mary and treasure God’s words and think deeply about them. Conclude with another time of praise and celebrate God’s goodness!

(Devotional copyright Mark Taft.)

An Early Christmas Present

Here is my early Christmas present to you: If you're like me, you enjoy taking the time to slow down a bit and reflect on the real meaning of the Christmas Season. In that spirit, I've written an easy to read and share Family Christmas Devotional. 

The key Bible verse you and your family will explore throughout the month in light of the Christmas Story is

We will tell the next generation

the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord,

    his power, and the wonders he has done.

Psalm 78:4

Here's some hints before you begin:

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”.  If you miss a time, just pick another! Remember, it’s about the relationship not the accomplishment.   Guard against discouragement if it doesn’t go well, 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. Talk about the ideas shared as your read God’s Word. Check for understanding by asking good questions and by explaining words that can sound confusing. Next, have a conversation about ways to apply what has been read. Knowledge of the Bible is empty and meaningless unless we do what it says.  (See James 1:22-25). 

4. Model praying for your kids, speaking simply and using words easy for them to understand. It will be easier for them to pray from their heart if they hear you do this.  

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. This is part of them growing in a real relationship with Our Creator. After your worship time, explain phrases they may not understand or interpret differently, i.e. what does “God reigns” mean?

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

7. As they grow in understanding and application of God’s Word, expect them to get excited about their relationship with our Living God.  This overflow from their heart will lead them to share Him with others. 

Ready? Here you go. One page of reading and questions to consider for each ten day period of the month.

December 1 – 10           God’s Praiseworthy Deeds

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Read Isaiah 9:1-7 together.  

Paraphrase or use only verses 6 and 7 if your children are very young.

Next, read Luke 1:26-38 together. Paraphrase the story or use only verses 26-33 if appropriate.

Points for consideration:

• From the beginning of creation, God has wanted personal relationship with the people He made. 

• God desires to look after His People, and He hears the prayers of his children. 

• God always keeps His Promises- even when it looks different than what we think.

Is it not amazing that the God of all creation chooses to reveal Himself throughout history? Share other examples of God making himself known to His people. Ask your children about the names of God used here. What do they mean?

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 you will rule forever! There is no one like you!”

Time of Prayer

Reread Luke 1:37-38.

Points for consideration:

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

• Mary responded in humble obedience. God’s plan may not have been her plan, but she happily submitted to His Plan and trusted Him with her life. 

This brought God glory!

Ask your children what they are concerned about. What do they think about at night? What do they ask God? Have they chosen to give their lives to Him? If they have, are they willing to live their lives as He leads them? How are their lives bringing Him glory? Discuss what this means.

Pray together. Encourage them to pray from their hearts rather than what they think might please you.

December 11 – 20          God’s Power

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

Read Luke 2:1-7 together.

Points for consideration:

• God is powerful! He even orchestrates world events so that they are in line with His Plan.

• World leaders – presidents, kings, and those in government- are placed in positions of authority by God. (See Romans 13)

• God is powerful! God placed Jesus in Joseph’s human family because he was part of David’s family.

Is it not amazing that God intentionally places people in families and in jobs for His Purposes? Why has He put you in your family? How have you seen God use your family in a way that shows God to the people around you? 

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for His power. An example of their praise might be, “Father, I praise you for putting me in this family!” or  “Thank you Father for being the one who watches over every aspect of our lives!”

Time of Prayer  

Read Ephesians 3:14-21 together. 

Then read 2 Peter 1:3. Summarize or clarify these verses for understanding.

Points for consideration:

• Jesus lives in our hearts through faith. It is not our work that earns us a place in God’s family and in heaven. How will live our lives is a result of His love in our hearts. 

• God has placed His power in us by giving us His Holy Spirit. This power enables us to know God’s deep love for us and gives us what we need to live a life that pleases Him.

Ask your children if they belong to Him and why. Ask if they understand God’s love. Ask them how this is reflected in the way they live. Where have they seen God give them what they need to live in a manner that pleases Him? Are we being obedient to Him?

Pray together. Pray that they would rely on God to know and follow His Ways. Pray for our leaders that they would follow His ways.  

December 21 – 31          The Wonders He Has Done

Time of Praise and Thanksgiving

(A NOTE TO PARENTS: Before covering this section with your children, consider reviewing Isaiah 52:13 – 53:12 as well as Romans Chapter 3:21-23 and 10:9-11.)

Read Luke 2:8-20 together.  

Points for consideration:

• The event of Jesus’ birth was so important, God sent angels to announce it. This is the most wonderful event of all time! He came to pay the price for our sin!

• Jesus is God made flesh. He and the Father are One. (John 8:58-9; Colossians 2:9) 

• Jesus is the only way to eternal life. (John 14:6) 

Why did God send Jesus to the earth? Discuss the answer to this question.

Imagine being a shepherd in the field and seeing what they saw and hearing what the heard! What would be your reaction? What would you think? What would you say and do?

Lead the children to praise and thank Him for revealing this “Good News of Great Joy”.  

They might say, “Father, I praise you for the gift of Jesus!” 

Time of Prayer

Read John 14:6 together.  Then read John 3:16-17. Finally, read Luke 2:19.  

Points for consideration:

• Because He loves us so much and wants everyone to know the truth, Jesus makes it very clear He is the only way to Heaven. 

• Mary heard the words the shepherds shared about the angels and probably thought of the angel Gabriel who visited her earlier. She treasured these words and thought deeply about them.

Ask your children to define sin. Ask how they have sinned. Check for understanding of Jesus’ words in John 14:6.  What does the Way, the Truth, and the Life mean? Discuss Romans 10:9-11.

Pray together. Ask them to confess their sin and turn away from it and to Jesus for forgiveness and the gift of eternal life. Then, pray for them that they would rely on God to know and follow His Ways. Encourage them to be like Mary and treasure God’s words and think deeply about them. Conclude with another time of praise and celebrate God’s goodness!

(Devotional copyright Mark Taft.)

Christmas Family Devotional

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.


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.

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 thanksgiving grows in their hearts.

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

____________

May God bless you this Christmas season with the greatest gift- a strengthened relationships hip with the Lord Jesus Christ, the One who paid the price for your sin by dying on the cross in your place.

(Devotional copyright Mark Taft.)