Kids Bible Devotional for November 5, 2024
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Focus Verse
Hebrews 11:33-34 Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions, quenched the violence of fire, escaped the edge of the sword, out of weakness were made strong, waxed valiant in fight, turned to flight the armies of the aliens. (KJV)
Jump Start
"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."
We opened with an excerpt from Paul’s final letter to Timothy, his son in the faith. Paul realized that his time on earth was coming to a close. Paul, like many of Christ’s apostles in the first century, lost their lives because of their faith in Jesus Christ.
Paul associated the end of his ministry with a battle. Paul often used references to war when describing our walk with God. The most famous of these is found in Ephesians chapter 6 where he explains the Armor of God.
Soldiers are trained for battle. They accept the risk because they believe they fight for a higher cause. As Christians, we battle against spiritual forces and our own sinful nature meant to rob us of our freedom in Christ.
Today's Devotion
“So, did you get it?” Kevin asked his friend, Brandon.
Brandon nodded his head and smirked.
“Come on, man. Don’t keep me guessing. What’s it like?” Kevin asked.
A broad smile filled Brandon’s face. “Bruh, it’s crazy. Combat Fighter IV is the best video game I’ve ever played. It has super cool 3D animations, tons of firepower, and a whole mess of combat scenarios. You can choose any of the World Wars, or any time period up to the year 2500, anywhere on the planet. Even outer space. And based on your battle, it lets you choose whatever weapons you want.”
“Wow!” Kevin said. “I hope my parents get me that game for my birthday.”
Just then, Brother Solomon, Brandon and Kevin’s Sunday School teacher, walked up.
“What’s ‘wow,’ Kevin?” he asked.
“The new Combat Fighter IV video game that just came out. Brandon just got it.”
“It’s a beast, Brother Solomon. Have you played it?”
“I have not. What’s so great about it?”
“It’s the best fighter game on the market.”
“Sounds a bit violent for my taste,” Brother Solomon said.
No pain, no gain, right, Brother Solomon?” Kevin said with a wink.
“Depends on what you’re gaining. Take your game, for example. It’s all make-believe. But I know of people who never picked up a weapon and yet gave their life for a cause worth fighting for?”
“No weapon? How did they fight then?” asked Kevin.
“With their faith. In Hebrews 11, we read about men and women who endured all manner of cruelty because they would not forsake their faith in God. And because of their sacrifice, we are blessed to know the gospel today.”
Brother Solomon held up his Bible. “This is all the weapon I need. With this, I can win the most important battle of all times. A war for my soul. Have fun with your fantasy game, but don’t forget, you’re already in a fight.”
Wrap Up
This Gospel message came at great expense, beginning with our Lord, Jesus Christ. In fact, the gospel is based on His sacrifice – Jesus’ death, burial, and resurrection.
As Christians, we serve a higher purpose. We are soldiers in the Army of the Lord. We war on our knees in prayer. We wield the mighty sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. We carry our shield of faith in God which defends us against enemy attacks. Our victory comes from the Lord because He fights for us.
We win when we surrender everything to the Lord.
With that in mind, remember to pray for Christians around the world who are being persecuted for their faith.
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