Monthly Archives: December 2024

Devotion

495 New Testament History

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What Are the Five Books of History in the New Testament?

The five books of New Testament history are: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and Acts. These books tell us about the life of Jesus and the early church.

Bible Verse “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” — Acts 1:8 (NLT)

Story Maya loved stories, especially ones about real heroes. One day, her mom told her, “The Bible has the greatest story of all! It’s about Jesus and how He saved us. And the best part? It’s not just a story—it’s true!”

The books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are called the Gospels, and they tell the story of Jesus’ life, from His birth to His resurrection. The book of Acts continues the story, showing how Jesus’ followers shared the good news and started the church. These five books are like a treasure chest filled with everything we need to know about God’s love and His plan to save us.

Connection to Salvation in Jesus

The Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) teach us about Jesus—how He healed people, taught about God’s kingdom, died on the cross for our sins, and rose again to give us eternal life. The book of Acts shows how the Holy Spirit gave Jesus’ followers the power to spread the good news.

Because of Jesus, we can have a relationship with God and be part of His family. These five books remind us that Jesus came to save us and send us out to share His love with the world. His story didn’t end in Acts—it continues through us!

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for the books of the New Testament that teach us about Jesus and the early church. Thank You for sending Jesus to save us and for giving us the Holy Spirit to help us share Your love. Help me to follow You and be a part of Your story. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Challenge for the Day

Read a story from one of the Gospels, like Jesus feeding the 5,000 (John 6:1-14), or from Acts, like the Holy Spirit coming at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4). Talk with a parent or teacher about how the story shows God’s power and love. Then think about one way you can share Jesus’ story with someone this week!

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494 Minor Prophets

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What Are the Twelve Books Written by the Minor Prophets?

The twelve books written by the minor prophets are: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephaniah, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi. Though they’re called “minor,” their messages are powerful and important.

Bible Verse “The Lord is good, a strong refuge when trouble comes. He is close to those who trust in him.” — Nahum 1:7 (NLT)

Story Ella’s soccer team wasn’t the best. They didn’t have a star player or fancy uniforms, but their coach always said, “You’re small, but you’re mighty!” One day, Ella scored the winning goal in a big game. Her coach smiled and said, “See? Great things can come from small teams!”

The minor prophets remind us that even though their books are short, they carry big messages from God. These books teach about God’s love, justice, and His plan to send a Savior. Each prophet’s message may seem small, but together, they show us God’s heart for His people.

Connection to Salvation in Jesus

The messages of the minor prophets point to God’s plan for salvation. Hosea shows us God’s faithful love, even when we mess up. Micah tells us the Savior will be born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Zechariah speaks of a King coming to save us (Zechariah 9:9). All these messages point to Jesus, the Savior who came to rescue us from sin.

Jesus fulfilled the promises written in the minor prophets. He lived, died, and rose again so we could have eternal life. These books remind us that no message from God is too small to make a big difference.

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for the messages from the minor prophets that remind us of Your love and plan for salvation. Thank You for sending Jesus to be our Savior and fulfill Your promises. Help me to trust You and live for You every day. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Challenge for the Day

Pick a story or verse from one of the minor prophets, like Jonah and the big fish (Jonah 2:1-10) or Micah’s prophecy about Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). Talk with a parent or teacher about how it points to Jesus. Then share what you’ve learned with a friend or sibling!