Devotions – Welcome

Devotions 1-30

Christian devotions tailored for younger kids, focusing on simple, engaging, and age-appropriate.

1-5

Day 1: God Loves You

Story:

Once upon a time, God looked at the world and decided to make something very special. He made the sun, the moon, the stars, the animals, and the beautiful earth. But what God loved most was making you! God made you because He loves you so much and wants you to be His friend.

Activity:

Draw a Picture

Ask the children to draw a picture of something they love. Explain that just like they love things, God loves them even more. They can use crayons, markers, or whatever art supplies are available.

Prayer:

“Dear God, thank you for loving me so much. Thank you for making me and everything in the world. Amen.”

Discussion Points:

Talk about how each child is unique and special, just like how God made each star in the sky different from one another. – Discuss how we can show our love back to God, perhaps through kindness, saying thank you, or being good friends to others.

Song (optional):

Sing a simple song like “Jesus Loves Me” to reinforce the message of God’s love.

This devotion aims to introduce the foundational Christian concept of God’s love for individuals in a way that’s understandable and meaningful to young children. It combines storytelling with interactive art to engage their creativity while embedding the spiritual lesson.

Scripture:

The story of the loaves and fishes (Matthew 14:13-21).

Story:

Once upon a time, Jesus was teaching many people by the sea. They were all very hungry, but there wasn’t much food. A little boy came forward with five loaves of bread and two small fish. Jesus took the bread and fish, thanked God for them, and then shared them with everyone. Miraculously, there was enough food for everyone, and they even had leftovers! This story shows us that when we share what we have, even if it seems small, Jesus can make it enough for everyone.

Activity:

Today, let’s practice sharing like Jesus did. Bring a snack to school or share one at home with a friend or family member. Maybe you can share your favorite cookie or fruit. As you share, think about how happy it makes your friend to have some of your snack!

Prayer:

“Help me to share, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 3: Jesus Loves the Little Children

Scripture:

Jesus welcomes children (Mark 10:13-16).

Story:

One day, many people brought their little children to see Jesus. They wanted Jesus to bless them. But the grown-ups around Jesus thought he was too busy and tried to stop the children from coming close. However, Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these.” Then, Jesus took the children in His arms, laid His hands on them, and blessed them. This shows us that Jesus loves all children very much!

Activity:

Let’s sing a song that reminds us how much Jesus loves us! Sing “Jesus Loves the Little Children”:

“Jesus loves the little children,

All the children of the world.

Red and yellow, black and white,

They are precious in His sight.

Jesus loves the little children of the world.”

Prayer:

“Jesus, thank you for loving me. Amen.”

Day 4: Listening to Jesus

Scripture:

Jesus teaches on the mountain (Matthew 5:1-12).

Story:

Jesus went up on a mountain, and many people followed Him to hear what He had to say. He sat down and started teaching them wonderful things about being kind, loving, and peaceful. This special teaching is called the Beatitudes. Jesus said that people who listen and try to live like this are very blessed. It’s like Jesus was saying, “Listen to me, and I’ll show you the way to be happy!”

Activity:

Let’s play a fun listening game! Sit quietly and close your eyes. Listen carefully to the sounds around you. Maybe you’ll hear a clock ticking, birds chirping, or someone walking. After a minute, open your eyes and talk about all the sounds you heard. This game helps us practice listening, just like Jesus wants us to listen to His teachings.

Prayer:

“Help me listen, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 5: Kindness

Scripture:

The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37).

Story:

Once upon a time, there was a man who was traveling on a long, dusty road. Suddenly, some robbers jumped out, took his things, and hurt him badly, leaving him by the side of the road. A priest and a Levite, who were supposed to be very good people, saw him but walked right past him. But then, a Samaritan, someone who usually didn’t get along with the man’s people, came along. He saw the hurt man, felt sorry for him, and did something very kind. He helped him, took care of his wounds, and even paid for him to stay at an inn until he was better. This story, called the Good Samaritan, teaches us that kindness means helping anyone in need, no matter who they are. Jesus told this story to show us how to love our neighbors.

Activity:

Kind Act: Think of a kind thing you can do for someone in your family. It could be helping with chores, sharing a toy, or giving a big hug when they’re feeling sad. Do this kind act today, and feel the joy of being like the Good Samaritan.

Prayer:

“Dear Jesus, thank you for teaching us about kindness through the Good Samaritan. Help me to be kind to everyone, just like he was. Amen.”

Discussion Points:

Talk about what kindness looks like in everyday life. Ask the children if they’ve ever been kind to someone or if someone has been kind to them.

Discuss how kindness can make both the giver and the receiver feel happy.

Song (optional):

Sing a song about kindness, perhaps adapting a familiar tune like “This Little Light of Mine” to “This Little Heart of Mine, I’m gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine,” with verses about showing kindness.

This devotion focuses on teaching young children the importance of kindness through the story of the Good Samaritan, encouraging them to act out this lesson in their daily lives. It’s designed to be engaging, simple, and directly applicable, fostering a spirit of compassion and empathy in young hearts.

6-10

Day 6: Thankfulness

Scriptures:

Jesus giving thanks before feeding the crowd (John 6:11).

Story:

One day, Jesus was with a big crowd of people who were hungry. A boy shared his five loaves
of bread and two fish. Before Jesus shared this food with everyone, He did something
special—He looked up to heaven and gave thanks to God. Then, Jesus started passing out the
bread and fish, and somehow, there was enough for thousands of people! Jesus showed us that saying “thank you” to God is important, because everything we have comes from Him.

Activity:

Let’s make a thank-you card! Grab some paper, crayons, or markers. Think of someone you’re
thankful for—like a friend, teacher, or family member. Draw a picture or write a little note that
says “Thank you” to them. When you’re done, give it to them and tell them why you’re thankful for them. It’s a fun way to share thankfulness!

Prayer:

“Thank you, God, for all you give us. Amen.”

Day 7: Forgiveness

Scriptures:

The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32).

Story:

Jesus told a story about a young man who left his family, took all his money, and spent it on silly things. Soon, he had nothing left and felt very sorry. He decided to go back home and say, “I’m sorry” to his dad. His dad didn’t get mad—instead, he ran to hug him, forgave him, and threw a big party to welcome him back! This story shows us that God loves us and forgives us when we say we’re sorry, just like the dad forgave his son.

Activity:

Let’s play a forgiveness game! Pretend with a friend or family member that one of you made a
little mistake—like spilling juice or forgetting to share. Act out saying, “I’m sorry,” and the other
person says, “I forgive you!” Then switch roles. It’s a fun way to practice forgiving each other,
just like Jesus teaches us.

Prayer:

“Help me forgive others, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 8: Peace

Scriptures:

Jesus calms the storm (Mark 4:35-41).

Story:

One evening, Jesus and His friends were in a boat crossing a big lake. Suddenly, a huge storm
came up with wild wind and waves crashing into the boat! The friends were scared, but Jesus
was sleeping. They woke Him up and said, “Help us!” Jesus stood up, spoke to the wind and
waves, and said, “Peace, be still.” Instantly, the storm stopped, and everything was calm. Jesus showed His friends that He can bring peace, even when things feel scary.

Activity:

Let’s practice feeling peace inside! Sit down with a friend or family member. Take a big, slow breath in through your nose, then blow it out gently through your mouth—like you’re blowing bubbles. Do this three times together. Feel how calm and peaceful it makes you, just like Jesus brings peace to us.

Prayer:

“Jesus, give us peace. Amen.”

Day 9: Prayer

Scriptures:

Jesus teaches how to pray (Matthew 6:9-13).

Story:

One day, Jesus’ friends asked Him, “Lord, teach us how to pray.” So Jesus gave them a special prayer to talk to God (Matthew 6:9-13). He told them to pray for God’s name to be honored, for His kingdom to come, and to ask for what they need—like food, forgiveness, and help to do
good. This prayer is called the Lord’s Prayer, and it’s a simple way Jesus showed us how to talk to God, our Father in heaven.

Activity:

Let’s learn the Lord’s Prayer together! Say it slowly with a friend, teacher, or family member. You
can even clap or tap your hands to help remember the words.

Here’s a simple version for kids:

*”Our Father in heaven, holy is Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who
sin against us. Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.”*

Practice it a few times until it feels fun and familiar!

Prayer:

The Lord’s Prayer:

*”Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on
earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we
forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

[For Yours is the kingdom, the power, and the glory, forever and ever.] Amen.”*

Day 10: Trust in God

Story:

Jesus walking on water (Matthew 14:22-33).

Activity:

Play a trust game where one leads and the other follows with eyes closed.

Prayer:

“Help me trust you, God. Amen.”

11-15

Day 11: Friendship

Scriptures:

Jesus Calls His Disciples Friends (John 15:13-15)

Story:

Jesus had special friends called disciples who followed Him and learned from Him. One day,
Jesus told them something amazing (John 15:13-15). He said, “I don’t just call you helpers—I
call you my friends! Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for their friends.”
Jesus showed them that friends love each other and stick together, and He called them His
friends because He loved them so much. Jesus is our friend too, and He wants us to be good friends to others!

Activity:

Let’s celebrate friendship with a fun craft! You can make a friendship bracelet using yarn or beads—pick colors your friend likes and tie it on their wrist. Or, draw a picture of you and your friends playing together, like at the park or sharing a snack. Give your bracelet or picture to a friend to show them you’re happy they’re your friend, just like Jesus loves His friends.

Prayer:

“Thank you for my friends, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 12: Obedience

Scriptures:

Jesus in the Temple as a Child (Luke 2:41-52)

Story:

When Jesus was a boy, He went with His parents, Mary and Joseph, to a big celebration in
Jerusalem (Luke 2:41-52). After it was over, His parents started walking home, but Jesus stayed
behind at the temple, listening to the teachers and asking questions. When Mary and Joseph
found Him, they were surprised! Jesus went home with them and obeyed them, growing strong and wise. Even though Jesus was God’s Son, He listened to His parents, showing us how
important it is to obey.

Activity:

Let’s practice obeying like Jesus did! Today, try listening carefully to your parents or teachers
when they ask you to do something—like picking up toys, sitting quietly, or helping a friend.
When you obey, give yourself a big smile or a high-five! It’s a fun way to see how obeying
makes things better, just like Jesus obeyed His parents

Prayer:

“Help me obey, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 13: Miracles

Scriptures:

Turning Water into Wine (John 2:1-11)

Story:

Jesus was at a big wedding party with His mom, Mary, and His friends (John 2:1-11). The party ran out of wine, which made people sad. Mary told Jesus about it, and He said, “Fill some big
jars with water.” The helpers did what Jesus said. Then, Jesus turned that water into yummy
wine—better than any they had before! Everyone was amazed. This was Jesus’ first miracle, showing that He can do amazing things because He’s God’s Son.

Activity:

Let’s talk about how Jesus can do amazing things! Sit with a friend, family member, or teacher and share ideas about miracles. You could say things like, “Jesus can make sick people better,” or “He can calm a storm!” Maybe even draw a picture of water turning into juice or wine. It’s fun to think about all the wonderful things Jesus can do.

Prayer:

“Thank you for miracles, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 14: Love Your Neighbor

Scriptures:

The Greatest Commandment (Mark 12:28-31)

Story:

One day, a man asked Jesus, “What’s the most important rule?” Jesus answered (Mark
12:28-31), “Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And the second rule is just as
big: Love your neighbor as yourself.” The man was happy with that answer because it means
loving God and loving people—like friends, family, or even someone next door—is what matters
most to Jesus.

Activity:

Let’s show love for our neighbors with a picture! Grab some paper and crayons or markers.
Draw or color a picture of neighbors helping each other—like sharing a snack, playing together,
or picking up toys. Think about how you can be a good neighbor while you draw. When you’re
done, show your picture to someone and tell them how neighbors can love each other

Prayer:

“Help me love others, God. Amen.”

Day 15: Being Brave

Scriptures:

David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17)

Story:

A long time ago, there was a young shepherd named David (1 Samuel 17). A giant named
Goliath was scaring God’s people, and no one wanted to fight him because he was so big!
David said, “I’ll go, because God is with me.” With just a sling and a stone, David trusted God,
faced Goliath, and knocked him down with one shot! God helped David be brave, showing us
we can be brave too when we trust Him.

Activity:

Let’s talk about being brave with God’s help! Sit with a friend, family member, or teacher and
share times you felt scared—like going to a new place or trying something hard. Then talk about
how God can give you courage, like He did for David. You could even pretend to sling a pretend stone and say, “God helps me be brave!” It’s fun to think about how strong we can be with God.

Prayer:

“Give me courage, God. Amen.”

16-20

Day 16: The Light of the World

Scriptures:

Jesus is the Light of the World (John 8:12)

Story:

One day, Jesus told the people something special (John 8:12). He said, “I am the light of the
world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” Jesus
meant that He’s like a bright light that helps us see the way, keeps us safe, and makes us
happy—just like the sun lights up our day! When we follow Jesus, His light shines in our hearts.

Activity:

Let’s make a sun catcher to show Jesus’s light! You’ll need tissue paper (cut into small pieces),
clear contact paper or wax paper, and a frame (like a paper plate with the middle cut out). Stick
colorful tissue paper pieces onto the sticky side of the contact paper or glue them to wax paper.
When it’s done, hang it in a window so the sunlight shines through—like Jesus’s light shining for
us. Say, “Jesus is my light!” while you work.

Prayer:

“Thank you for being our light, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 17: Healing

Scriptures:

Jesus Heals the Blind Man (Mark 8:22-26)

Story:

One day, some people brought a blind man to Jesus in a little town (Mark 8:22-26). The man
couldn’t see anything at all. Jesus took him by the hand, led him outside, and touched his eyes.
At first, the man said, “I see people, but they look like trees walking!” Jesus touched his eyes
again, and then the man could see everything clearly! Jesus healed him because He loves us
and has the power to make us better.

Activity:

Let’s role-play healing like Jesus did! Pair up with a friend or family member. Pretend one of you
can’t see (close your eyes gently) or has a pretend hurt, like a sore knee. The other person can
softly touch the “hurt” spot or say a little prayer, like, “Jesus, please help my friend.” Then switch
roles. It’s a fun way to see how Jesus cares for us and helps when we’re sick.

Prayer:

“Jesus, help those who are sick. Amen.”

Day 18: Patience

Scriptures:

Waiting for the Harvest (Mark 4:26-29)

Story:

Jesus told a story about a man who planted seeds in the ground (Mark 4:26-29). He said the
kingdom of God is like this: the man scatters the seeds, then waits. The seeds grow all by
themselves—first a tiny sprout, then a stalk, and finally a plant with grain. The man doesn’t
make it grow; he just waits patiently until it’s ready to pick. Jesus showed us that good things
take time, and we need to be patient while God works.

Activity:

Let’s plant a seed and practice patience! Grab a small pot, some soil, and a seed (like a bean or
flower seed). Plant the seed in the soil, give it a little water, and put it in a sunny spot. Each day,
check on it and wait patiently for it to grow. It might take days or weeks, but that’s
okay—watching it grow slowly reminds us to trust God’s timing, just like the man in the story.

Prayer:

“Help me be patient, God. Amen.”

Day 19: Humility

Scriptures:

Jesus Washing the Disciples’ Feet (John 13:1-17)

Story:

One night, Jesus had dinner with His disciples (John 13:1-17). Back then, people’s feet got dirty
from walking in sandals, so someone usually washed them. Jesus surprised everyone by taking
a towel and a bowl of water and washing His disciples’ feet Himself! Even though He was their
leader, He did this humble job to show love. He said, “I’ve done this to show you how to help
others.” Jesus teaches us to be humble and kind, no matter who we are.

Activity:

Let’s practice humility like Jesus! Today, help with a small task at home, like setting the table for
dinner, picking up toys, or carrying something light for someone. It’s not a big job, but it shows
love and care, just like Jesus washing feet. When you’re done, tell someone, “I helped like
Jesus did!”

Prayer:

“Teach me to be humble, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 20: Joy

Scriptures:

The Joy of the Shepherds at Jesus’s Birth (Luke 2:8-20)

Story:

One night, shepherds were watching their sheep in the fields (Luke 2:8-20). Suddenly, an angel
appeared and said, “Don’t be afraid! I bring good news—Jesus, the Savior, is born!” Then a
whole bunch of angels filled the sky, singing praises to God. The shepherds were so excited and
joyful! They ran to see baby Jesus in Bethlehem, then told everyone about the wonderful news.
Jesus’s birth brought them big joy, and He brings us joy too!

Activity:

Let’s celebrate with joy like the shepherds! Pick a happy song—like “Joy to the World” or “Jesus
Loves Me”—and sing it loud with a friend or family member. Or make up a silly dance to show
how joyful you feel about Jesus. Jump, spin, or clap your hands—let the joy come out, just like
the shepherds felt when they heard about Jesus!

Prayer:

“Fill us with joy, Jesus. Amen.”

21-25

Day 21: Faith

Scriptures:

*Faith as Small as a Mustard Seed (Matthew 17:20)*

Story:

One day, Jesus told His disciples about faith (Matthew 17:20). He said, “If you have faith as
small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move,’ and it will move. Nothing will be
impossible for you!” A mustard seed is super tiny, but it grows into a big plant. Jesus meant that
even a little bit of faith in God can do amazing things!

Activity:

Let’s look at a mustard seed or plant one! Find a mustard seed (or use a tiny seed like a
sesame seed) and hold it in your hand—it’s so small! Talk with a friend or grown-up about how
even little faith can grow big, like the seed. If you plant it in soil, water it and watch it grow over
time, just like our faith in Jesus.

Prayer:

“Grow our faith, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 22: Honesty

Scriptures:

Zacchaeus Tells the Truth and Promises to Make Things Right (Luke 19:1-10)

Story:

Zacchaeus was a little man who climbed a tree to see Jesus (Luke 19:1-10). He had taken extra
money from people and kept it, which wasn’t right. When Jesus came to his house, Zacchaeus
told the truth and said, “I’ll give back what I took—and even more!” Jesus was happy because
Zacchaeus was honest and wanted to fix things.

Activity:

Let’s play a truth game! With a friend or family member, take turns asking simple questions like,
“Did you eat a snack today?” or “Did you play outside?” If you tell the truth, you get a high-five
or a small prize (like a sticker). It’s fun to see how being honest feels good, just like Zacchaeus
learned!

Prayer:

“Help me be honest, God. Amen.”

Day 23: Hope

Scriptures:

The Promise of Heaven (John 14:1-3)

Story:

Jesus told His disciples something wonderful (John 14:1-3). He said, “Don’t be worried. In my
Father’s house are many rooms. I’m going to prepare a place for you, and I’ll come back to take
you there.” Jesus promised that Heaven is a beautiful place where we’ll be with Him forever,
giving us hope every day!

Activity:

Let’s make a hope collage! Grab paper, crayons, or pictures from magazines. Draw or paste
things you hope for—like playing with friends, a happy family, or being with Jesus in Heaven.
Share your collage with someone and talk about how Jesus’s promise gives us hope.

Prayer:

“Thank you for hope, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 24: Helping Others

Scriptures:

*Jesus Healing on the Sabbath (Luke 13:10-17)*

Story:

One Sabbath day, Jesus saw a woman who couldn’t stand up straight—she’d been bent over for
years (Luke 13:10-17). Even though some people said it was a day to rest, Jesus healed her
right away. He touched her, and she stood tall, praising God! Jesus showed that helping others
is always a good thing to do

Activity:

Let’s help someone today! Pick a small task, like picking up toys, carrying a book for a friend, or
helping set the table. When you’re done, tell someone, “I helped like Jesus did!” It feels great to
help others, just like Jesus showed us.

Prayer:

“Help us help others, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 25: Thanksgiving

Scriptures:

Jesus Giving Thanks (John 6:11)

Story:

Jesus was with a big crowd who were hungry (John 6:11). A boy shared his five loaves of bread
and two fish. Before Jesus shared the food with everyone, He looked up to Heaven and gave
thanks to God. Then, miraculously, there was enough for thousands of people! Jesus showed us
to say thank you for what we have.

Activity:

Let’s make a gratitude list or tree! Get paper and crayons. Draw a tree and add “leaves” with
things you’re thankful for—like family, food, or friends—or just write a list. Share it with someone
and say why you’re thankful, like Jesus did before the miracle.

Prayer:

“Thank you for everything, God. Amen.”

26-30

Day 26: God’s Care

Scriptures:

*God Cares for the Birds and Flowers (Matthew 6:25-34)*

Story:

Jesus told His friends not to worry about what they need (Matthew 6:25-34). He said, “Look at
the birds—they don’t plant or store food, but God feeds them. And see the flowers—they don’t
work, but God makes them so beautiful!” Jesus said God cares for us even more than the birds
and flowers, so we can trust Him to take care of us.

Activity:

Let’s go outside and look for birds or flowers! Take a walk with a grown-up and point out any
birds flying or flowers growing. Talk about how God takes care of them—and how He takes care
of you too. If you can’t go outside, draw a picture of a bird or flower instead.

Prayer:

“Thank you for caring for us, God. Amen.”

Day 27: Respect

Scriptures:

Jesus Respecting the Temple (John 2:13-16)

Story:

Jesus went to the temple, a special place to pray (John 2:13-16). He saw people buying and
selling things there, which wasn’t right. Jesus made them leave because He wanted the temple
to be a place for God, not a market. He showed us how to respect God’s house by keeping it
special.

Activity:

Let’s learn how to respect church or home! Talk with a grown-up about ways to show
respect—like sitting quietly in church, not running inside, or helping keep your home clean.
Practice one idea today, like folding your hands during prayer or picking up something small.

Prayer:

“Help us show respect, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 28: Love

Scriptures:

The Greatest Commandment (Matthew 22:37-39)

Story:

A man asked Jesus, “What’s the most important thing to do?” Jesus said (Matthew 22:37-39),
“Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And also love your neighbor as yourself.” Jesus
told us that loving God and loving people is the best way to live!

Activity:

Let’s show love today! Give a big hug to a family member or do something kind, like sharing a
toy or drawing them a heart. Tell them, “I love you!” to show how much you care, just like Jesus
said to love others.

Prayer:

“Help us love more, Jesus. Amen.”

Day 29: Trust in God’s Plan

Scriptures:

Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-42)

Story:

Before Jesus died, He went to a garden to pray (Mark 14:32-42). He knew hard things were
coming, and He felt sad. He prayed, “Father, if it’s possible, take this away. But I’ll do what You
want.” Jesus trusted God’s plan, even when it was tough, and God helped Him.

Activity:

Let’s talk about what trust looks like! Sit with a friend or grown-up and share a time you had to
wait or do something hard—like waiting for a turn or going to the doctor. Talk about how trusting
God means believing He has a good plan, like Jesus did in the garden.

Prayer:

“Help us trust your plan, God. Amen.”

Day 30: Celebration of Jesus

Scriptures:

The Resurrection (Luke 24:1-12)

Story:

After Jesus died, some women went to His tomb early in the morning (Luke 24:1-12). They were
surprised—the big stone was rolled away, and Jesus wasn’t there! Angels said, “He is risen!”
Jesus came back to life, just as He promised, and it’s the happiest news ever!

Activity:

Let’s celebrate Jesus with a little Easter egg hunt or party! Hide a few small eggs (or toys) and
find them with friends or family—it’s like finding the happy surprise of Jesus being alive! Or sing
a song and clap to celebrate. Jesus is alive, and that’s worth cheering about!

Prayer:

“Thank you for Jesus, God. Amen.”