Student Devotion Week 16: From Jews to Gentiles: Peter and Cornelius

Key Verse: Acts 10:39-40, “We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a cross, but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen."

It's hard for me to believe people once thought the earth was flat or that it was the center of the universe. Imagine you'd believed that the earth was flat all of your life. How much would it have changed your reality if someone told you the world was actually a big ball circling a gigantic star and that all those tiny pinpricks in the night sky were stars hundreds of times bigger than the earth?

I imagine the Jews in Acts felt the same type of reality check when they found out that God wasn't interested in them only, but wanted to save the whole world. They saw themselves as "the chosen people," but now God was calling them to open the doors to allow non-Jews to receive salvation in Jesus Christ.

In Acts 10 we read that God gave Peter a specific vision to make him realize that Salvation was for all people, not just the Jews. The result of this revelation was an explosion of evangelism that quickly moved beyond Israel's borders and began to echo around the world. That shockwave is still expanding as the gospel is shared with people who've never heard it.

Some people say the gospel is too exclusive since it requires belief in Jesus. On the contrary, the gospel is one of the most inclusive of all faiths because it's open to anyone who believes.

Student Devotion Week 15: The Apostle to the Gentiles: The Conversion of Saul

Key Verse: Acts 9:4-6, "He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” “Who are you, Lord?” Saul asked. “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,” he replied. “Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

You can't talk about the New Testament without talking about Paul. In fact, Christianity wouldn't be the same without the life, writings, and influence of the apostle to the Gentiles. Something happened in the life of this one man that served as a turning point in history. Acts 9:1-19 records the amazing conversion of this great man-the transformation from "Saul the zealous Pharisee" to "Paul the crusader for Christ."

Paul's influence cannot be measured. Fulfilling God's will from the beginning, Paul got to be God's vessel to take the message of salvation to all people-not just the Jews. Paul was the first missionary to the rest of us. Part average Joe, part fierce debater, and part loving pastor, Paul's unique character and background made him the perfect choice as the apostle to everyone. Furthermore, God inspired Paul in the writings. He ultimately left behind 13 letters in our Scriptures.

As you read the book of Acts, you see the depth of conviction of this persecutor-turned-true-believer. And he's everywhere: In the marketplace talking to ordinary folks, in the synagogue debating religious leaders, and on the road spreading the gospel from Asia to Europe.

This week we're going to look at the conversion of the Church's first and greatest theologian, and find out why God is still using Paul in our lives today.

Student Devotion Week 14: An Amazing Conversion: Philip ant the Ethiopian

Key Verse: Acts 8:32, "This is the passage of Scripture the eunuch was reading: “He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before its shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth."

Learning to drive is an interesting experience. Typically your parent or driving instructor will take you to some deserted road or parking lot for behind-the-wheel training. Driving seems easy-press the gas to go, use the wheel to turn-but a little more finesse is involved. After a few lurching starts and screeching halts, hopefully you start to get the hang of it. Or at least your instructor prays you do before he gets whiplash.

Learning new skills takes time. The disciples had to take some time to learn to walk in the Spirit. Having the Spirit of God present with them all the time meant they'd experience amazing new opportunities and an intimacy with God they'd never experienced before.

The same can be true for us as we learn to walk in the Spirit. But as it was with the first disciples, it will take some trial and error for us to work out the kinks.

This was certainly true for Philip, one of the seven chosen to help the apostles. This week we'll learn how the Spirit worked within the encounter between Philip and the Ethiopian. Each day we'll tackle a different aspect of the story and pick ways we can learn how to respond to the Holy Spirit in our own lives. You never know-by the end of the week, you might be part of a similarly amazing story.

Student Devotion Week 13: God's Perfect Plan: The Dispersion of the Church

Key Verse: Acts 8:4 "Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went."

Have you ever seen those Magic Eye Pictures? You know, the ones that look like just a bunch of jagged colors but when you stare at them in a certain way, a picture will supposedly leap out at you in 3-D? I never could see the picture; in fact, staring at it just gave me a headache. But other people would swear that right in front of me-in the midst of a bunch of chaos-was an incredible picture. I have to say it's still hard for me to believe.

Sometimes our lives will look like those pictures: Completely random jagged edges, and totally incomprehensible. But the Bible is very clear about the fact that even when things seem totally out of control, God has his firm hand on history. God is able to work every circumstance for his purposes and his glory-at all times. In Acts 8:1-8 we see the early church face a huge wave of persecution. It looks bleak for the fledgling body of believers as they're scattered everywhere. But this period of turmoil would serve to spread the gospel faster than anything else in the book of Acts.

Even when we believe nothing can be done, God can still do whatever he wishes in order to fix the situation. As we think about God's sovereignty this week, watch how God brings a perfect plan to fruition out of what looks like complete chaos.

Student Devotion Week 12: The Martyrdom of The Saints: The Stonging of Stephen

Key Verse: Acts 7:55-56, "55 But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56 “Look,” he said, “I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.”

Tertullian, a church leader in the second century, said, "The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church." He was living through times of intense persecution, yet he saw the Church continue to grow and thrive. No matter how many Christians lost their lives, the Church continued to expand.

This kind of persecution began with the martyrdom of Stephen. When faced with a mob that wanted to destroy the fledgling Christian Church, Stephen gave bold witness to Jesus Christ. In response to the enraged mob stoned him. His death wouldn't be the last, either. Throughout the history of the early Church, people gave their lives for the gospel: Stephen, James, Peter, Paul. Yet the Church continues to multiply again and again.

This kind of martyrdom does not exist just in the Bible. As you read this, people all over the world are still giving the ultimate sacrifice in order to spread the gospel of Christ. You and I may never be asked to make that sacrifice, but daily we'll be asked to give our lives to Christ as we serve him wherever he chooses to use us. This week we're going to ask the question: Would I be willing to give my life for Christ? Until we understand the sacrifice of past saints, we won't be able to follow in their footsteps today.

Student Devotion Week 11: Shared Ministry: Choosing the Seven

Key Verse: Galatians 6:9, "Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."

Moses was tired. He'd been listening to one disagreement after another. I imagine him mediating a dispute between two people who claim to have created manna soup, and both want the patent on the recipe. The Israelites had been coming to Moses with these kinds of questions all day, and the line still wrapped around the tent-twice, "This is ridiculous", he thought. "I can't keep this up." But he was the leader of Israel-wasn't settling disputes his job? If so, then how does the leader of a million people wandering in the desert go on a vacation?

Next in line was Moses' father-in-law who had some advice of his own, "Moses, share the load. It's not all up to you." So Moses did, and he got that vacation.

Just like Moses, the apostles figured out early on that they couldn't do ministry by themselves. So God helped them choose others to share the ministry of his kingdom. Everyone in the early Church had a part to play in ministry.

This week we're going to think about the shared ministry of the Church. Whether you know it or not, God has a place for you to serve, and the whole concept of church won't work unless you get involved. It's time we all got off the pews and into the game.

Student Devotion Week 10: An Invincible Church: Persecution of The Apostles

Key Verse: Acts 5:29, "Peter and the other apostles replied: 'We must obey God rather than men!'"

Let's think for a moment about all the religious that have come and gone. There were Egyptian gods, that whole druid thing, and how can we forget all those Greek gods?

But then there's the church. Not only has the Church stood the test of time-spanning more than 2,000 years of history-but multitudes of people have also tried to destroy it without success. Bibles have been turned, apostles executed, and entire empire tried to wipe out the Church-all to no avail. The Church continues to thrive. Why? Because Jesus is the Lord of lords and the King of kings. Impostors fade away while Christ remains.

The situation has been the same from the Church's beginning. In Acts the apostles were threatened by religious and government authorities, thrown in jail, and beaten. But none of this put a dent in God's unfolding plan for his kingdom in the world. The Church continued to grown through all of the opposition.

Today's Church is the same way. Christians around the world are persecuted, and the Church of Jesus Christ still stands. Yet most of us don't see the Church as the invincible body it is.

Student Devotion Week 9: Integrity: The Key to Our Witness

Key Verse: 1 Peter 1:15, "But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do."

Mahatma Gandhi was an influential Hindu leader in the early twentieth century whose life and teachings are still followed by many today. He often referred to Jesus with terms of praise, prompting someone to ask Gandhi if he wanted to become a Christian. In reply, he said, "I like your Christ: I do not like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." His sentiment is shared by many. How many people have been driven away from church because some Christians talk like believers but never live out the faith they preach?

The reality is that if we don't live what we say, then we lose our credibility in telling others about Jesus. When Christians lack integrity, everyone loses. What's integrity? Having integrity means being honest. It means saying what you mean and meaning what you say. And it's more important than you know. In the early stages of the Church, God went so far as to kill one couple who purposefully lied to their church. What happened to them was pretty drastic. But their lack of integrity threatened the Church.

As Christians we have to be diligent about making sure our lives reflect our beliefs. And since we're a part of a larger body, we have to help each other live out our beliefs as well. Even if we live correctly, when other believers are hypocrites, it hurts our witness. So this week we're going to talk about the integrity of not just our lives, but of the Church as well. Whether you like it or not, we're all in this together.

Student Devotion Week 8: One Community: Sharing Among Believers

Key Verse: "Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves." Romans 12:10

Growing up in my church, the word fellowship meant some sort of post-worship-service gathering that involved food and coffee. And that was about it. It seemed pointless then; but looking back, I can see how important those times were. A church is a family made up of different types of people. And the only way such a diverse group can become a real family-and not just a crowd-is by spending time together.

This week we'll see the members of the early church giving money to one another, sharing their possessions, and taking care of each other. This is what a real church family is supposed to look like. But how do we get there?

In every church God wants to build something called community, the sense that we're all connected in a real way. Serving each other, helping, loving, and giving are all ways we express real community.

Believe it or not, this can be the most exciting and life-changing aspect of your church experience. But community isn't easy to come by. It takes a deliberate choice to be a part of the people of God. Once you join, the benefits are endless. This week we're going to look at how to build real community in our own churches.

Student Devotion Week 7: Physical Opposition: Peter, John, and the Sandhedrin

Key Verse: "But we are not of those who shrink back and are destroyed, but of those who believe and are saved." Hebrews 10:39

At the entrance to the Coliseum in Rome stands a huge iron cross. It was erected to commemorate the countless number of Christians who were killed for sport in that place and throughout the Roman Empire. Scary as it may seem, throughout history people have given their lives just for claiming to be Christians and refusing to deny Jesus. And while the Coliseum may seem millions of miles away from your daily life, persecution and death are a present-day reality for many Christians around the world today. Peter and John knew this kind of persecution. In Acts 4:1-12 they were thrown in Jail just because they were preaching the gospel. And that was just the beginning. Our lives may never be at risk simply because we're Christians. But one of the things we'll have to deal with is opposition. Jesus said that since people hated him, they'd also hate us for no other reason than because we love God. It seems odd, but it happens. You've probably already experienced people excluding you or making fun of you just for your beliefs. This week we're going to look at some responses to physical threats and how we can best use these situations to be witnesses for Christ.

Student Devotion Week 6: Silver or Gold I Do Not Have: Healing of the Beautiful Beggar

Key Verse: Hebrews 10:24-25, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another-and all the more as you see the Day approaching."

You've seen the signs: Caution! Men at Work. Speeding Fines Double When Workers Present. Orange signs, cones, and barricades-these are the everyday things that let us know what's ahead.

Did you know God is always working? There are no flares or flashing lights that call us to look. We have to be sensitive to the opportunities around us. We have to sense God's Spirit moving in us. We have to learn to be aware, to be alive to the possibilities.

Peter and John sensed an opportunity one afternoon while they were on their way to pray. They saw a man who needed new legs. They saw a man who needed a handout to get his meal for the day. But they saw something more. They saw a man who needed Jesus. They knew from their own experience that if they could introduce this beggar to Christ, then he'd have all he really needed.

This week we're going to be challenged to see where God is at work and join God.

Student Devotion Week 5: The Church's Message: Peter Speaks

Key Verse: Acts 2:32, "God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of the fact."

"Man raised from the Dead!" It sounds like a headline you'd read in the National Enquirer. But this fact is the basis for Christianity. The heart of the gospel isn't a list of rules or regulations. It's Jesus' message that we need-and can have-new life. And this new life is available to anyone who believes Jesus died and arose from the dead.

In Acts 2:14-33 Peter follow up the incredible baptism of the Holy Spirit with an awesome Pentecost sermon. He speaks the truth about the Holy Spirit-that God had promised it and kept that promise. And then Peter boldly proclaims that the Jesus they'd all watched die is alive again. More than anything else, this defined the beliefs of the apostles and the early church. Without the resurrection there is no Christianity because Christ would still be dead.

The truths about Jesus in Peter's sermon have always been the Church's central message; it should be a message we claim for ourselves. Because Jesus is alive, we can have a relationship with him and he's working in our lives on a daily basis. IT gives us confidence in the hope that one day we, too, will be resurrected. This week we'll look at what the resurrection means to us on a daily basis.

Student Devotion Week 4: Baptism of the Spirit: The Holy Spirit at Pentecost

Key Verse: "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body." I Corinthians 6:19-20

It was dramatic . Rushing wind...pyrotechnics...crowds reeling in amazement...and one of the most effective sermons ever preached. This is how the Church was born at Pentecost. In one day more than 3,000 people began the church in Jerusalem.

Those believers were the start of something big. Since then the Church has faithfully passed the message of Jesus Christ from generation to generation throughout the ages. Eventually someone told you. The church you're now a part of grew from the message of Christ that the early Christians presented thousands of years ago.

The Holy Spirit of God made a surprise entrance at Pentecost, assuring us that from then on we'd be able to do things that used to be impossible. The Spirit now empowers us, guides us to the truth, teaches us, and helps us share our faith. With the Spirit, amazing things are suddenly a possibility.

As believers, one of our main tasks is to remain connected to the Holy Spirit. This week we'll look at how the Spirit helps us and find out how to take advantage of the many miraculous opportunities the Spirit gives us every day.

Student Devotion Week 3: The Church Founders: The Choosing of Matthias

Key Verse: "It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that hte body of Christ may be built up." Ephesians 4:11-12

Every story has a beginning, and yours goes all the way back to the disciples. One disciple in particular, Peter, is a big figure inthe Church. He's depicted in paintings, he wrote a couple of books in the New Testament, and it's said he has this sweet gig at the pearly gates. But back in the book of Acts, none of this was on his radar. In fact, all the disciples were a little confused. Jesus had always made the decisions, but suddenly the disciples-a group of ordinary Joes-were alone. They must have thought, We're here, but what are we supposed to do?

They went to work anyway, starting with the decision to replace Judas. Jesus had selected 12 disciples; therefore, it seemed important to continue to have 12. The disciples prayed that God would show them the right person, and God did. Matthias was chosen to replace Judas.

From there it's all history. Everything was happening according to God's plan. Little did the disciples know they were the beginning of the Church of Jesus Christ. The church you attend today can be traced back to these original followers of Christ.

This week we're looking at the apostles, the people Paul referred to as the foundation of the Church. As we study them, try to put yourself in their shoes. Think about what it would've been like to see the early Church get started. Imagine how people might have treated them. Try to picture the kind of faith the apostles must have had.

Student Devotion Week 48: Nehemiah: Rebuilding the Wall of Jerusalem

Key Verse: 2 Timothy 3:12, "In fact, everyone wants to live a godly life in Christ Jesus will be persecuted."

Have you seen the television show during which a whole house is completely torn down and rebuilt from scratch? Viewers love to see the transformation that takes place during a rebuilding process.

Nehemish was the original extreme makeover man, but instead of rebuilding a house, he tackled an entire city wall. A Jew living in exile in Persia, Nehemiah served as the cupbearer to King Artaxerxes I. He not only checked the wine for poisons, but he also served as confidant to the king. When Nehemiah heard the walls of Jerusalem had been torn down, he wept, morned, and fasted. Then he spent the next four months praying about the situation. During that time God formulated a plan in Nehemiah's mind for rebuilding the walls around Jerusalem. God also began molding Nehemiah into a spiritual leader.

Prayer played an important part in Nehemiah's life during the rebuilding of the walls. When he was given permission to return to Jerusalem, enemies of the Israelites mocked Nehemiah's plan. But his response was to pray. When those enemies threatened to attack the workers during the rebuilding process, Nehemiah prayed again about the situation. Then when rumors created discouragement among the workers, Nehemiah once more took the matter to God in prayer.

Nehemiah's passionate vision for rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem led him to discover a new level of trust in God. His spiritual leadership was stretched thin as he dealt with problem after problem, but each difficulty seemed to give him new strength. The real secret to Nehemiah's success was the thing his journey started with and centered on: Prayer.

Student Devotion Week 47: Esther: For Such A Time As This

Key Verse: Esther 4:14, "For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father's family will perish. And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?"

Pageants are a big deal. The winners receive scholarships, cars, or even modeling contracts. Have you ever heard of a pageant to choose a queen? While in exile with the Jewish people in Persia, Esther took part in such a pageant.

King Xerxes of Persia had given a banquet that lasted six months. At its conclusion, he called for his queen to come to the party wearing her crown. When she refused his command, the king became furious and banished her from his presence. the king's attendants suggested that a search be carried out for the most beautiful women in the kingdom. These women would be presented to the king and the one who pleased him most would become the new queen of Persia.

Esther hid her Jewish background and was chosen as the new queen. Haman, the king's Prime Minister, hated Esther's uncle, a Jewish man named Mordecai. Haman conceived a plan to wipe out all the Jews. When Queen Esther was informed of Haman's plan, she determined to stop him. She risked her life by entering the presence of the king and telling him about Haman's plan. Mordecai and the rest of God's people were saved, while Haman was hanged.

Esther's part in the rescue of the Hebrew people could be seen as one great circumstance after another, but God was in control of every event in her life. Your life isn't about being in the right place at the right time. Your life-like Esther's-is a testimony to the sovereignty of God.

Student Devotion Week 46: Daniel: Humble, Bold Pray-er

Key Verse: Daniel 9:19, "O Lord, forgive! O Lord, hear and act! For your sake. O my God, do not delay, because your city and your people bear your name."

Daniel faced a den of hungry lions because of his commitment to God. The king recognized Daniel's powerful prayer life when he said, "May your God, whom you serve continually, rescue you!" God did rescue Daniel, and as his story continued to unfold, Daniel continued to pray and fast.

Daniel was grieved to learn of Jeremiah's prophecy that 70 years of desolation for Jerusalem would come to pass in Daniel's lifetime. Daniel started praying and fasting to God's people. First, he acknowledged God as a keeper of promises and confessed his sin and the sins of the Israelites. Next, Daniel recognized that the people of Israel were getting exactly what they deserved because of their disobedience and lack of trust in God. Then Daniel asked God to show mercy and turn his anger away from the sinful Israelites.

While Daniel continued to pray, a most amazing thing happened: The angel Gabriel appeared before him. The angel told Daniel his prayer had caused God to issue a message concerning one of Daniel's visions. God was also pleased with Daniel's devotion to prayer. And Gabriel even told Daniel that God loved him very much. Literally, Daniel was an object of God's delight.

Daniel was a humble man, and that meek spirit came across in his times alone with God. He was quick to repent, and he had a strong desire to seek God in all situations. Daniel was known for his character and integrity, and those qualities were strenghtened through his prayer life. Daniel's pryaers stirred the heart of his heavenly Father, who expressed both love and delight for his humble servant.

Student Devotion Week 45: Shadrach, Meshach, Abednego: Standing in the Furnace

Key Verse: Daniel 3:17-18, "If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to save us from it, and he will rescue us from your hand, O king. ¹⁸ But even if he does not, we want you to know, O king, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up."

Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were Daniel's friends. In fact, all four of them were exiles from Judah living in Babylon. During King Nebuchadnezzar's three-year training period. Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were with Daniel. While Daniel got in trouble for his prayers, it was their failure to bow down to a gold statue that heated things up for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.

King Nebuchadnezzar had a huge gold statue built. At the dedication ceremony, he declared that when people heard the music, they were to bow down to the golden idol-except Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. When Nebuchadnezzar heard of their refusal to bow down, he was furious and gave them one last chance to submit or face a painful death in a fiery furnace.

The confrontation between the king and these three young men was nothing short of classic. Nebuchadnezzar asked them what god could protect them in a blazing furnace, to which not just one but all three of them basically said, "The God we serve is able to save. But even if he doesn't, your majesty can be sure we'll never serve your gods or worship the gold statue you've set up."

They were willing to put their lives on the line for God. Why? Because obeying God and being faithful to him were more important to them than life itself. God did rescue Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego from certain death in the burning furnace. And the bold stance by Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego caused the king to issue a new declaration: "There is no other god who can rescue like this!" (Daniel 3:29, NLT).

Student Devotion Week 44: Daniel: Firm Convictions

Key Verse: Daniel 6:10, "Now when Daniel learned that the decree had been published, he went home to his upstairs room where the windows opened toward Jerusalem. Three times a day he got down on his knees and prayed, giving thanks to his God, just as he had done before."

Daniel's life was good. He was blessed with good looks. His family was well off. He was well educated. Then the Babylonians took over his country, and he was forced to live in exile. Daniel learned to make the best he could out of a bad situation.

Daniel was selected to go through special training in Babylon. He studied the language and culture of the pagan Babylonians, but Daniel never turned his back on God. Daniel kept his faith in God and his integrity, yet he still gained favor with the Babylonian rulers. That's when the trouble started.

King Darius was fond of Daniel, and he made Daniel his second in command. Some jealous peers decided to use Daniel's devotion to prayer to bring him down. The princes and administrators appealed to King Darius' vanity by having him sign a decree stating people couldn't pray to anyone except the king for 30 days. But Daniel kept on praying to God three times every day, just as he'd always done.

King Darius was trapped and forced to sentence Daniel to spend a night in a den of hungry lions. The next morning, the king raced to the lions' den and asked if God was able to deliver him. Daniel called out that he was fine because God had shut the mouths of lions. Darius issued a new decree that everyone in the kingdom should worship Daniel's God.

Student Devotion Week 43: Ezekiel: Sent To Warn

Key Verse: Ezekiel 33:9, "But if you do warn the wicked man to turn from his ways and he does not do so, he will die for his sin, but you will have saved yourself."

Don't people frustrate you when their words don't match their actions? One celebrity campaigned against sport utiltity vehicles because they use too much gas, yet he flew in a private jet and rode in limousines. Are you ever guilty of speaking God's message but not living it? God instructed Ezekiel to live what he preached.

God chose Ezekiel to be a prophet five years after the babylonians took Judah into captivity. He was called a watchman by God and was given the task of speaking about God's judgment and the future hope for the restoration of God's people. God described Ezekiel's audience as hard-hearted and stubborn. God also warned Ezekiel of the danger of becoming like his audience. By simply "practicing what he preached," Ezekiel could avoid that danger.

Ezekiel used unique ways to present God's message. Once God told Ezekiel to lie on his left side for 390 days to represent 390 years of Israel's sin. Then God told him to lie on his right side for 40 days to represent 40 years of Judah's sin. Ezekiel spent more than a year lying on his side.

God called Ezekiel to minister during some of the darkest days of Israel's history. His message was that God's glory had departed from his people but would one day return. Ezekiel offered the hope of restoration and future blessings from God. While Ezekiel spoke to hostile crowds, God called him to live what he preached. If he did, God promised to protect Ezekiel.

Student Devotion Week 42: Prophet Habakkuk: Live By Faith

Key Verse: Habakkuk 2:4, "See, he is puffed up; his desires are not upright - but the righteous will live by his faith."

Do you remember Job? He was a man who suffered and wanted God to answer his questions. Habakkuk is another Old Testament character who tried to question God. Job asked why God was punishing him; Habakkuk wanted to know why God hadn't punished the nation of Judah.

Habakkuk was a prophet during the closing days of Judah's history, probably during the reign of King Jehoiakim. The prophet watched as people violated God's laws without shame. The Israelites were living as if the God who miraculously delivered their ancestors had never existed.

The first part of the book of Habakkuk records two dialogues between the prophet and God. The conversations went something like this -

Habakkuk: God, how can you let the sins of Judah go unpunished?

God: I'm preparing the Babylonians as a way to Judge and punish Judah.

Habakkuk: God, why would you punish sinful Judah by using the pagan Babylonians?

God: I will punish both Judah and the Babylonians because sin cannot go unpunished.

The book of Habakkuk concludes with a beautiful prayer of praise sung by the prophet. Habakkuk acknowledged God as his source of strength in times of trouble. Habakkuk's questions caused him to experience God's wonder in a powerful way.

Student Devotion Week 41: Prophet Jeremiah: Chosen For Bad News

Key Verse: Jeremiah 1:5, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

When I was in college, a girl from my youth group was killed in a car wreck. I hadn't seen her in five years, but the news still shocked me. The wreck happened on a weekend, and on Monday I talked with a close friend of this girl. After I told her to pass on my sympathy to the girl's family, I made a startling discovery: she'd been out of town, and no one had told her that her friend had died unexpectedly.

The prophet Jeremiah knew what it was like to be the bearer of bad news. God called Jeremiah to speak out against the sin of the people and warn them that Jerusalem would be destroyed. Needless to say, his message wasn't very popular. People plotted to kill him.

Jeremiah's prophecies were so vivid, he cried over what was about to happen. He was even nicknamed "the weeping prophet." Jeremiah always held to God's promise of protection from his enemies-and God kept his promise. After the reign of King Zedekiah, Judah was invaded by the Babylonians, and the people were taken into captivity.

People love to hear about God's love and grace, but the truth about sin, judgment, and eternal punishment isn't very popular. God may call you to risk it all and speak his truth to someone. Don't expect to be congratulated. People may respond with anger. Even so, you can be confident you'll experience the presence and protection of God.

Student Devotion Week 39: Prophet Jonah: God's Compassion

Key Verse: Jonah 2:6, "To the roots of the mountains I sank down; the earth beneath barred me in forever. But you brought my life up from the pit, O Lord my God."

The city of Nineveh was the capital of the Assyrian empire. God had seen the wickedness of the Ninevites and was preparing to judge that great city. They Ninevites showed disregard for God. They worshiped false gods. The Assyrians were vicious and did terrible things to their enemies. This evil and barbaric society was about to come under God's judgment. Enter Jonah.

The prophet Jonah was called to announce the judgment of God to Nineveh. He'd have to travel a great distance to get there. The prospect of meeting evil and cruel people face to face didn't appeal to Jonah, so he hopped on a boat and headed in the opposite direction. Running from the call of God may not have been about fear; Jonah may have actually wanted God to destroy Nineveh - the capital city of one of Israel's potential enemies.

Jonah's disobedience led him into a storm at sea and a trip into the belly of a great fish. In the dark and surely believing he'd die, Jonah finally realized that salvation is from God; he had no right to choose who'd hear the Word of the Lord.

When the big fish spit Jonah out, he went to Nineveh and spoke these few simple words: "Forty more days and Nineveh will be overturned" (Jonah 3:4). Those words created such a revival that even the king repented and called all his people to do the same.

Why did God call Jonah to go preach in Nineveh? God loves all people, and he desires that everyone should have an opportunity to hear about him and respond to him. It's not for us to choose who hears about God. We're simply to Obey God and run to - not away from - his call.

Student Devotion Week 38: King Hezekiah: Repentance and Deliverance

Key Verse: 2 Kings 18:5, "Hezekiah trusted in the LORD, the God of Israel. There was no one like him among all the kings of Judah, either before him or after him."

Israel was divided. The northern kingdom was still called Israel, and the southern kingdom was called Judah. The spiritual climate of both kingdoms was determined largely by the king in power. Some kings were good and led the people to worship the true God; other kings were evil and led the people away from God. Hezekiah was a good king.

Hezekiah ruled Judah for 29 years. He removed pagan shrines and led the people to worship God. A lot of good things were happening in Judah, but then trouble started brewing. Assyria conquered Israel, and then the king of Assyria set his sights on Judah.

The king of Assyria attempted to intimidate Hezekiah with a letter detailing his military victories. Hezekiah knew Israel had been taken into exile by Assyria, and Judah was now facing the same fate. But Hezekiah prayed God would rescue Judah from Assyria so everyone would know the Lord alone was God.

Soon, the prophet Isaiah visited Hezekiah and told him God had heard his prayer; Assyria wouldn't overtake them. God sent an angel to the Assyrian camp and killed 185,000 troops. When the Assyrians woke the next day and saw the dead bodies, they quickly returned to their homeland. And when the Assyrian king got home, his two sons killed him in the temple of his pagan god. God is always bigger than anything this world can throw at those who truly trust in him.

Student Devotional - Week 37: Prophet Isaiah: "I Saw The Lord"

Key Verse: Isaiah 6:8, "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me!'"

You may remember an experience with God that changed your life. Maybe you had an encounter with him at a youth camp, on a mission trip, or during a special service at your church. Wherever it happened, a powerful experience with God is unforgettable and life changing. That's how it was when the prophet Isaiah encountered God.

Isaiah was a prophet in Judah, the southern kingdom. He received his call from God through a direct vision. In his vision Isaiah saw the holiness of God, and he became intensely aware of his own sin. When God cleansed him of his sins, Isaiah was ready to accept God's challenge to be his messenger.

Isaiah was a prominent figure in the Old Testament. His words continued to have influence in the New Testament. He ministered more than 40 years in Judah, and during that time he gave many specific prophecies about the coming Messiah-prophecies that Jesus would fulfill more than 600 years later. Isaiah is quoted more than 50 times in the New Testament, yet his words fell on deaf ears while he was alive. His death was cruel: He was sawed in half during the reign of the wicked Manasseh.

If you understand Isaiah, then you'll see worship differently. In God's presence Isaiah received a mission from God. Isaiah was faithful to God's call until the day he died. You've probably experienced times of worship when God seemed near and powerful. In times like that, you can count on God's holiness convicting you of sin. Then get ready to receive a glimpse of God's call on your life.

Student Devotion Week 36: Prophet Hosea: Unfailing Love

Key Verse: Hosea 6:6, "For I desire mercy, not sacrifice, and acknowledgment of God rather than burnt offerings."

Hosea is the subject of one of the greatest love stories in the Bible. And he was one of God's prophets. Hosea was called to prophesy during the days before Israel was destroyed. God also asked him to do something very unusual. Hosea's obedience to God sent a strong message about the loyal, unconditional love of God.

The ministry of Hosea extended 45 years. He lived his early life in the prosperous land of Israel, but the sin of the people caused conditions in the country to deteriorate. The main sin Hosea speaks of in his book is idolatry. As a way to demonstrate the relationship between God and his people. God told Hosea to marry a prostitute by the name of Gomer. She was unfaithful and left Hosea. Later he found her on the slave market and restored her as his wife.

Hosea and Gomer represent God and Israel. Just as Hosea chose a sinner to be his wife. God chose Israel to be his chosen people. As Gomer was unfaithful to Hosea, Israel was unfaithful to God by worshiping idols. Hosea redeemed Gomer because of his love. That was a picture of God always loving his people with perfect love.

Have you ever tried to love someone who's hurt you? Maybe you were hurt by a parent, a relative, or a friend. Hosea felt that same pain. It's the same pain God feels. Our usual response to someone who hurts us is to stop loving that person. That wasn't what Hosea did, and that isn't how God responds to us. Be thankful for God's unconditional love. As a Christian, practice unconditional love in your day-to-day relationships.

Student Devotional - Week 35: Prophet Elisha: Equipped for God's Purpose

Key Verse: I Thessalonians 5:24 - "The one who calls you is faithful and he will do it."

I remember the first time I was asked to fill in for the morning disc jockey at a local Christian radio station. I'd been a deejay in the 80s, but today's technology made radio a new adventure. The regular morning person taught me the basic computer skills for the job. He prepared me well, but I was still nervous on my first day. I made a few mistakes, but the training helped me to keep the station on the air for four hours.

Elijah was a mentor to Elisha. While Elijah was hiding out from Queen Jezebel, God told him to anoint Elisha as the next prophet. The two men spent ten years together. When God took Elijah to heaven in a chariot of fire, Elisha was left to carry on the work.

When the time came for Elisha to do God's work without his mentor, Elisha picked up Elijah's cloak and struck the water of the Jordan River. The water parted, and the people watching knew God had called Elisha to be Elijah's successor.

God performed many miracles through Elisha; but most importantly, Elisha always spoke God's words in God's time.

You may be fortunate enough to have a mentor to train you to fulfill God's call on your life. Perhaps your mentor may be your youth minister or your parent. But the day will come when you must step out on your own and do God's work. You can trust God; He'll never call you to a task without giving you what you need to accomplish it.

Student Weekly Devotion Week 34: Prophet Elijah: Never Alone

Key Verses: James 5:17-18, "¹⁷Elijah was a man just like us. He prayed earnestly that it would not rain, and it did not rain on the land for three and a half years. ¹⁸Again he prayed, and the heavens gave rain, and the earth produced its crops."

Sports fans love great match-ups like an all-star pitcher facing a home-run hitter or a great quarterback taking on a top defensive team. Sometimes the encounters become legendary-basketball's Larry Bird playing against Magic Johnson, or Muhammad Ali boxing Joe Frazier.

The Old Testament includes a story about a battle of historic proportions, and if they'd had big stadiums back then, this event would have been a sellout.

Elijah was fed up with the way the Israelites were wavering between worshiping God and Baal. So on famous Mount Carmel, Elijah challenged the prophets of the false god. Big crowds gathered to watch 450 of Baal's prophets attempt to get their god to burn up a sacrifice. Then it was Elijah's turn. God answered his two-sentence prayer, and fire fell from heaven.

Because Queen Jezebel was a big follower of Baal, she vowed to have Elijah killed after he embarrassed the prophets of her god. So Elijah ran for his life. Then, despite his victory on Mount Carmel, his fear of Jezebel caused Elijah to feel depressed and alone. He even prayed for God to take his life. During that time God ministered to Elijah and helped him see he wasn't alone. God was with him at all times.

Today, we have something available to us that Elijah didn't have in his day: The Holy Spirit of God living in us. When we feel sad and lonely like Elijah did, we don't have to ask God to appear for our comfort, because he already lives in us. And that's a comfort you can always depend on.

Student Devotional Week 33: Prophet Elijah: The Provision of God

Key Verse: 1 Kings 17:16, "For the jar of flour was not used up and the jug of oil did not run dry, in keeping with the word of the Lord spoken by Elijah."

When Solomon died, the nation of Israel was shattered. Israel was made up of 12 tribes-each composed of descendants of one of Jacob's sons. The 10 northern tribes refused to follow Solomon's son Rehoboam. They chose Jeroboam as their king and abandoned the southern tribe of Judah. Meanwhile, Judah (along with the much smaller tribe of Benjamin) remained loyal to Solomon's son.

During this time of political tension, God began to raise up prophets to speak his words against the sins of the people. God spoke to the prophets in various ways, but each prophet was called to proclaim God's words to his people.

The prophet Elijah prophesied against the wicked King Ahab of the northern kingdom (Israel) and ended up fleeing for his life. God sent a drought to the region. Eventually, God sent Elijah to a poor window in the village of Zarephath. When Elijah asked her for bread, she told him she was down to her last bit of flour. Elijah told her if she'd bake him a small loaf of bread from her tiny supply of flour, God would provide for her and her son. The widow acted in faith, and God miraculously refilled her flour container each time she prepared a meal. When her son later died, the power of God brought the boy back to life.

God is always providing for his people. Sometimes we overlook the provision of God until we face difficult times. God took care of Elijah. He took care of the widow and her son. And he'll take care of you.

Student Devotional Week 32: King Solomon: The Dangers of Prosperity

Key Verse: Matthew 6:21, "For Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Have you ever thought about what you'd ask for if you were granted a wish? King Solomon was given an opportunity to ask God for anything.

Solomon became the king of Israel after the death of his father, David. One night during a dream, God appeared to Solomon and told him to ask for whatever he wanted. Without hesitation Solomon told God he wanted wisdom to govern and to know the difference between right and wrong. Because God was so pleased with the request, he gave Solomon both wisdom and riches.

Solomon's reputation for being a man of wisdom quickly spread thoughout the world. Soon people flocked to ask the king for wise counsel. Solomon's wisdom grew and so did his wealth and fame. He had wealth, and he had 1,000 beautiful women as his wives and concubines. But that's where the trouble started. All of those foreign women led Solomon to ungodly worship. By the time he was an old man, his heart had turned away from God. The wisest man who ever lived did the most unwise thing: He allowed his heart to turn from God.

Jesus warned about the dangers of prosperity. Paul said the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil (1 Timothy 6:10). Solomon lost his perspective and allowed what he had to become more important than what he believed. Jesus said, "For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also" (Matthew 6:21).

Student Devotion Week 31: King David: The Devastation of Sin

Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 6:19-20, "¹⁹Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; ²⁰you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body."

Psalm 101 was written during David's younger years. In it he spells out his position on holy living. He wrote that he'd be careful to lead a blameless life by staying away from evil. He also declared he'd keep a protective eye on the godly and not allow liars to enter his presence. David went so far as to proclaim that even those who served him would have to live a life above reproach.

When David reached middle adulthood, his high standards started to erode. One look at a beautiful woman and David quickly became an adulterer, a deceiver, and eventually a murderer. Sadly, he fell into a pattern of sin without feeling much guilt. Finally, when the prophet Nathan confronted him about his evil ways, David confessed his sin and repented. That's the end of the story, right? Wrong.

Today the entertainment industry floods television, movies, and music with stories of people sinning and suffering no consequences. That's not reality. David was forgiven, but he had to deal with family problems that resulted from his sin, including the death of some of his children and a rebellious son who almost cost him his throne. Look at David's later years if you believe sin comes without a high cost.

Sin is a big deal to God. God forgives freely, but negative consequences for sinful actions still affect not only you and those around you now, but also future generations. As it's been said, you're free to choose your actions, but your not free to choose the consequences of your actions. How you deal with sin is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a Christian.

Student Devotion Week 30: King David: Seeking God's Heart

Key Verse: Acts 13:22 "After removing Saul, he made David their king. He testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.'"

When David was young, he was a shepherd who looked after his father's sheep. He spent his days looking for grazing land, protecting the sheep from wild animals, and thinking. A shepherd's life is lonely, and David had a lot of time to think about God. As a musician, he took many of those thoughts and created some of the great passages in the book of Psalms. David had a heart for God.

During those years the Israelites were locked in a fierce battle with the Philistines. Their chief warrior was a giant known as Goliath. He stood nine feet tall and carried a spear with a tip that weighed 15 pounds. While David was delivering some food to his three brothers serving in the Israelite army, he heard the challenger from Goliath. David couldn't believe no one would fight this man who dared to defy the army of the living God.

With five smooth stones and a sling, David took on the giant. The years David spent in solitude as a shepherd prepared him for this battle. While he was experienced with a sling, a weapon he'd used to protect his sheep form wild animals, his greatest assets were a heart for God and a belief that with God anything was possible. Armed with courage and the Spirit of the Lord, David took down the giant with one stone.

The Bible states that David was a man after God's own heart. And his love for God had intensified during his lonely days as a shepherd boy. So when it came time to stand up to a pagan giant, David took the challenge because of his deep love for God.

David would soon become the king of Israel. God was preparing to use David in a powerful way.

Student Devotion Week 29: David and Jonathan: A Deep Friendship

Key Verse: John 13:35, "By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

The story of David and Jonathan is a story of true friendship. David was commissioned to calm King Saul's spirit with the harp. When David met Jonathan, Saul's son, they became instant friends. That friendship would be tested many times as Saul's jealousy of David grew.

God was with David. His victories in battle made him a celebrity. King Saul became jealous and tried many times to kill David. Once Jonathan talked his father out of a murderous plan. Another time Jonathan helped David escape from his father. Jonathan put his own life on the line for his friend David.

Because he was the oldest son, Jonathan was the heir to the throne of Israel. Yet Jonathan recognized the anointing God had placed on David, and he told him that one day David would be the next king. Jonathan was perfectly content with the idea of serving alongside David as second in command. But his wish would never come true. Both Jonathan and Saul died during a battle with the Amalekites, David mourned and fasted over the death of his good friend.

If you want to have good friends, then you have to be a good friend. David and Jonathan were willing to die for each other. David summed up his love for his friend in a funeral song he wrote about Saul and Jonathan (see 2 Samuel 1:17-27).

Wouldn't you love to have a friend like that? Are you willing to be a friend like that?

Student Devotional Week 28: King Saul: Israel's First King

Key Verse: 1 Samuel 13:14, "But now your kingdom will not endure; the Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him leader of his people, because you have not kept the Lord's command."

In one Episode of the television classic The Andy Griffith Show, Aunt Bea ran for city council. Her motto was that if the people of Mayberry wanted something, she'd do her best to accomplish it. Her opponent Howard Sprague pointed out that what people wanted wasn't necessarily what was best for them.

The period of the judges was coming to an end. Samuel, the last of the judges, was growing old. His sons were greedy and corrupt, not suitable successors. The people cried out for a king to lead them so they could be like other nations. Samuel told them a king would draft their sons for battle and make slaves of their daughters. He pointed out that a king would tax them and take their crops and cattle. Still the people cried for a king.

Saul became the first king of Israel at the age of 30, and he ruled for 42 years. A few victories in the early years of his reign convinced the Hebrews they'd made the right choice. Then things started going downhill. Saul showed impatience and a lack of respect fro the priesthood by offering his own sacrifice. Then, during a battle with the Amalekites, Saul disobeyed Samuel's instructions by not killing King Agag. The book of 1 Samuel records that God was sorry he'd made Saul king of Israel.

The overall failure of Saul's rule as king can be summed up in one word-disobedience. The Hebrew people were disobedient to God when they demanded a king, and Saul was disobedient in many of his actions while he was king. But God's purposes always prevail, and the best days in the history of Israel were about to begin.

Student Devotion Week 27: Samuel: Hearing God's Voice

Key Verse: 1 Samuel 3:21, "The Lord continued to appear at Shiloh, and there he revealed himself to Samuel through his word."

It's always been tough to be a godly young person, even in Old Testament days. Consider the life of young Samuel. He was raised in the temple by the high priest Eli and had to live around Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas, who were also priests. To say these two sons were bad news is an understatement. They'd keep the best part of meat sacrifices for themselves, they seduced young women at the temple, and they had no respect for God. But even though Samuel was surrounded by band influences, he continued to do things that were pleasing to God.

When Samuel was very young, he heard the voice of God one night. The Bible states that visions and messages from God were rare in those days. And as Samuel grew, so did his reputation as a godly man and a man of wisdom. God continued to speak to Samuel and used him to prepare Israel for the transition from the period of the judges to the period of the kings.

One of the wisest man who ever lived, Solomon, wrote in Ecclesiastes 12:1, "Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, 'I find no pleasure in them." John Wesley said Solomon's negative reference to old age was due to his looking back with regret over his teenage years.

Can God do great things in the life of a teenager? He certainly did with Samuel.

Is it possible for a teenager to resist negative peer pressure and live a life that pleases God? Samuel did that very thing his entire life.

Are you living y0ur life in a way that honors God? Will you be able to one day look back over your teenage years with no regrets?

Student Devotional Week 26: Hannah: Plea & Praise

Key Verse: 1 Samuel 1:27-28, "'I prayed for this child, and the Lord has granted me what I asked of him. So now I give him to the Lord. For his whole life he will be given over to the Lord.' And he worshiped the Lord there."

Many churches hold baby dedication services once or twice a year. Parents stand with their babies at the front of the church and make a promise to both God and the congregation that their child will learn Christian beliefs and values. How would you react if, at the end of the service, a mother gave her son to the pastor and said that since she'd prayed for a child and her prayer was answered, she wanted to give him up to serve God? That's similar to what a woman in the Old Testament did with her son.

Elkanah had two wives, Peninnah and Hannah. Peninnah had children, but Hannah did not. Childless Hebrew women were viewed as dishonored by God. And to add to Hannah's anguish, Peninnah made fun of her constantly for not having any children. During her yearly visit to the temple. Hannah poured out her soul to God in prayer. She made a vow that if God would give her a son, she'd dedicate him totally to God.

God answered Hannah's prayer for a son quickly and completely. She became pregnant and had Samuel, which means "heard of the Lord." Hannah also kept her promise. After Samuel was weaned, she brought him to the priest, Eli, for service to God. She literally gave her son to God.

Sometimes you may believe God isn't answering your prayers. But regardless of how you feel, the God of the universe will always hear your prayer. And God answers every prayer in his time and in his way.

Student Devotion Week 25: Ruth: Redemption and Blessings

Key Verse: Philippians 2:3-4, "³Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. ⁴Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

It seems as though all the Bible characters we've studied over the past few months have been defined by either their obedience to God or their disobedience to him.

The story of Ruth helps us look at the role of obedience in the lives of God's people. In it we see how obedience leads to her redemption as well as the redemption of all humanity-including you.

Things were different for women in Ruth's day. When her husband died unexpectedly, Ruth was left with no security and no way to earn a living. Her Mother-in-law, Naomi, encouraged Ruth to stay in Moab with her own people. But Ruth's faithfulness to Naomi-whose husband had also died-led both women to journey to Israel. Ruth provided food for herself and for her mother-in-law by picking up bits of grain during harvest time in the barley fields. Then a man named Boaz-the man who owned the field-spotted her.

What was it about Ruth that caught the eye of Boaz? Could it have been her outward beauty? Her godly character? When Boaz asked about Ruth, people told him she'd returned to the land with her mother-in-law, Naomi. The foreman over the field workers told Boaz about Ruth's hard work in the field. Her character must have appealed to Boaz because he immediately went to talk with her, and he tried to help her as much as possible.

When Boaz married Ruth, he saved her from a life of hardship. God's plan of redemption was also at work in the lives of Ruth and Boaz. Their son Obed was King David's grandfather-an ancestor to Jesus Christ, the Redeemer of the world.

Student Devotional Week 24: Judge Samson: A Powerful Death

Key Verse: 2 Timothy 2:4, "No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs-he wants to please his commanding officer."

Once again, God chose to deliver his people from their enemies. This time the action took place south of where Gideon lived, and the enemies were known as the Philistines.

One day an angel appeared to a couple from the tribe of Dan. He told them they would a long-awaited child-a son-and they should dedicate the child as a Nazarite. The angel also said their son would rescue Israel from the Philistines. This son the angel referred to was Samson.

Samson was an awesome physical specimen. He had the potential to be a great leader, but ego and self-centeredness would eventually bring down this mighty man of God. Early in his life, Samson insisted his father get him a Philistine woman to be his wife, even though her people worshiped the false god Dagon. Later, Samson's lust for Delilah blinded him to her efforts to discover and ultimately remove the secret to his strength-his long hair.

Samson, the powerful man of God, lived his final days blind and in captivity, like an animal. The Philistines mocked his former strength by chaining him to a device used to grind wheat in a mill. But with his hair growing back and his strength slowly returning, Samson prayed to God to allow him to take revenge on those who had blinded him. God granted his request, and Samson pulled down the pillars of the temple, killing more Philistines that day than he had in the course of his lifetime.

Samson's physical power was great, but he wasn't a great person. He went out with a bang, but a consecrated lifetime spent following God would have made a greater impact on history. Samson's life was unrealized potential that produced a whole lot of fizzle.

As a follower of God, are you realizing the potential God has given you?

Student Devotional Week 23: Judge Gideon: An Unlikely Hero

Key Verses: Judges 6:15-16, "'But Lord,' Gideon asked, 'how can I save Israel? My clan is the weakest in Manasseh, and I am the least in my family.' The Lord answered, 'I will be with you, and you will strike down all the Midianites together.'"

Two hundred years had passed since the victories of Joshua in the land of Canaan. Many changes had taken place-most of them weren't good. The Promised Land was occupied by many enemies, and the Israelites were spending much of their time hiding in fear. During this time of oppression, God called out leaders known as "judges," or deliverers to rescue his people.

This was the time of a man named Gideon. God called on him to deliver the Hebrew people from a group of nomadic fighters known as the Midianites. God saw a mighty warrior in Gideon. Gideon, however, saw himself as a weakling. He told God he was the weakest person from the weakest family in the weakest tribe in all of Israel. God showed Gideon-through a series of signs-that he'd be the one God would use. Gideon was finally convinced.

When it came time for the big fight with the Midianites, Gideon felt pretty good about his army of 32,000-until God whittled the number down to just 300 men. Then God led Gideon and his tiny army to victory, and the people were delivered from their enemy.

Gideon was an unlikely hero-an average person who didn't think very highly of himself. His life was changed when the God of the ages touched him with the power of encouragement. God saw Gideon's potential and understood he was a person who'd always know that his ability to lead was a gift from God.

Student Devotional Week 22: Joshua: The Fall of Jericho

Key Verse: Hebrews 11:30, "By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days."

The promised Land consisted of groups of small city-states; each was governed and ruled by a separate king. As the Hebrews' prepared to take the land, they had to fight not just one army but many armies.

Remember the Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, the battle of Helm's Deep and the huge fortified wall that protected the people of Rohirrim? They believed that no army could penetrate their walls and gates, but they were wrong and so were the people of Jericho.

The first battle took place at the city of Jericho, a city fortified by huge walls and gates. The prostitute Rahab hid the two Hebrew spies who sneaked into the city before the attack. Rather than scaling the walls of the city or attacking the doors with battering rams, God told his people to march around the city walls. So once a day for six days and then seven times on the seventh day the Hebrew soldiers marched around Jericho. No doubt that sounded like a strange military plan to the Israelites. But Joshua had learned the importance of trusting God and obeying him without question. He led the people to follow God's instructions to the letter.

Once the walls came down and Jericho was conquered, the battle moved to the city of Ai. Here the Israelites were soundly defeated. Why? This setback was due to the disobedience of just one person. God was continuing to teach his people how to obey him completely. After a time of repentance, a second confrontation with the people of Ai ended in victory for the Israelites.

Joshua lived the rest of his life as leader of the Israelites. When he passed away at the age of 110, there was a void in the leadership of Israel. The people had learned to trust God through Joshua, but now they were going to have to learn to trust God-period. The era of the judges was about to begin, and some very dark days were ahead for the children of Israel.