Student Prayer at School

It is that time of year again for the See You at the Pole rally. As a youth pastor I have been a part of this event for about 13 years now in some way. I encourage my students to attend and support one another. As uplifting as this event can be, it can also be used in a "Pharisaic" like way for everyone to look and see how good a Christian I am being, in other words "look at me, look at me!" I pray for this year to be a true coming together of Christians not in opposition to other non-believers or people of other faiths, but as a testimony of God's love for all people! Unity is what Jesus called for the church in John 17:20-23, 20 “My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, 21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. 22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one— 23 I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." That is my prayer for us as well, let it be so!

Bringing Churches Into the 21st Century

"What's going on with a church wanting to reach a younger generation. The youth are an 'on demand' generation with our music, TV shows, movies, school lessons and connecting with global friends. Churches meet at designated times (usually once a week), in designated places...... seems some shifts are needed. What's going on that churches refuse to enter 21st century world?" was the question from a 23 year old searching for faith. Any responses....?

Go to New Smithfield Student Ministry Blog!

Go to New Smithfield Student Ministry Blog!

Pretty is as Pretty Does

This is a new format that I am trying out to express contemporary issues from Youth Culture. So, today our Pastor, Dr. Donald Rhoton, preached on a shift that has happened in Youth Culture. Youth are very concerned about their appear, so much so that it consumes their lives. He quoted from a study done between the diaries of 19th Century to 21st Century teenage girls and found that they are more self-image and outward focused and less caring about the needs of others. Why is that? Societal and cultural influences are definitely at work here. Adults have caused some of this putting the idea that a successful person does certain things and looks a certain way. The images in advertising are all of the "pretty" people. The result is more cases of eating disorders, drug addictions, increase of depression and suicide rates. That is the culture that we find ourselves living in the 21st century. Diaries are no longer private or secret they are facebook posts on someones wall. The good news is we are aware of the problem, now what are we going to do about it? Scripture says we were "created in the image of God" and God said his creation was "very good." So, don't believe the lies of the world. Remember sin is very much alive and active in the world today. Girls you are beautiful and created in the image of almighty God, Guys too!

Student Devotion: Inspiring Others

Key Verse: "Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

Everyone needs to be reminded that God creates us with a calling for each of our lives. Everyone is given gifts that need to be shared with the world. You can be an agent of change in our world. You can empower anyone, no matter what age, to make a change in their life and to follow God’s call. Ever have to sit at the “kids’ table” at family get-togethers? I remember sitting at a small table with my cousins, separated from adult conversation. Sadly, many of us feel removed when it comes to faith. We are led to believe only our church leaders and adults are the people who really possess knowledge and gifts. However, what about those who are not pastors or deacons or elders or teachers? Writing to Timothy, a teenager, Paul reminds him that in Christ there is no kids’ table. Timothy is told to demand respect, pull up a chair and join the conversation. Surely Timothy was shocked when Paul told him to be the leader in the congregation! Don’t sit at the kids’ table because you don't feel worthy or able to contribute to the cause of Christ! YOU have something to say, a gift to use, something to contribute. Welcome to the table! God, thank you for your invitation to the table! Help me to step up and offer all that I have in service to you, even when I feel inadequate or that my opinion does not matter. I offer myself to you. Amen.

It is easy to feel that we are not inspirational to others. However, each day we are empowered by the Holy Spirit to be agents of inspiration and change in the lives of others. How have you been empowered by the Holy Spirit to inspire someone else? How can you make a difference in the world today?

You have the gifts, the ability, and the Spirit of the Living God to inspire others.

Go! Be! Inspire!

Student Devotion Week 6: More Than On Your Own

Key Verse: Joshua 1:1-9, "1 After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide:² “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them —to the Israelites.³ I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses. ⁴ Your territory will extend from the desert to Lebanon, and from the great river, the Euphrates —all the Hittite country—to the Mediterranean Sea in the west.⁵ No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.⁶ Be strong and courageous,because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. ⁷ “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. ⁸ Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditateon it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. ⁹ Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Ok, it's Bible Story 101. Time to test your knowledge. What do you remember about Moses and his story? What do you remember about Joshua and his story?

Here's a recap. Moses was God's handpicked leader to free His people from slavery in Egypt. Moses was a just and faithful leader. But due to the people's sin along the journey from Egypt to the promised land, God told Moses that he would never actually enter the land. Next up: Joshua. Joshua was Moses' right-hand man. He had been at Moses' side while Moses was leading the people. Joshua was the heir to the leadership of the Israelites.

Now, take a moment and read Joshua 1:1-9. But before you do, here's some quick background info. Moses had died, God had some words of encouragement. As you read the passage, pay close attention to verse 5. What important message did God give Joshua? If you were in Joshua's shoes, how would this make you feel?

You could spend hours reading about all the ways God was with Moses. And here God was telling Joshua, "You know what? All the awesome stuff I did for Moses? I'm going to do the same for you." What a powerful promise! It must have been just what Joshua needed to get ready to lead God's people.

The important truth is this: God does not call His people to a task without empowering them. God calls you then gives you His strength to carry out the call. As you live out your call, don't forget Joshua and how God promised to be with him

Student Devotion Week 5: Push Through It!

Key Verses: Philippians 3:12-4:1, "12 Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already arrived at my goal, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. 13 Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, 14 I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

15 All of us, then, who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained.

17 Join together in following my example, brothers and sisters, and just as you have us as a model, keep your eyes on those who live as we do. 18 For, as I have often told you before and now tell you again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is set on earthly things. 20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.

4 Therefore, my brothers and sisters, you whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, dear friends!”

Chances are you probably know that Mount Everest is the world’s highest mountain. At 29,029 feet above sea level, Everest dominates the border of Nepal and Tibet. The first successful expedition to reach Everest’s peak was led by New Zealand’s Edmund Hillary and Nepal’s Tenzing Norgay in May of 1953. It was an amazing feat of commitment and fortitude. In the years since the duo’s famous ascent, over 4,000 other climbers have made it to the top of the majestic mountain. And while all of these climbers came from different countries, they all have one thing in common:

They didn’t make it to the top of the mountain by focusing on what was behind them. They made it to the top by focusing on what was ahead.

Tackling Everest is such a difficult challenge that the only thing to keep climbers going is the promise of the summit. The prize of standing on the world’s highest point keeps the climbers motivated. It helps the push through the most difficult terrain.

Stop for a moment and read Philippians 3:12-4:1. Philippians was one of Paul’s “prison epistles”, letters he wrote while under house arrest in Rome. When Paul wrote Philippians, he was nearing the end of this life and had experienced a tremendous amount of hardship and suffering, all for the sake of Jesus. But notice what he said here: Paul wasn’t quitting. And he wasn’t resting on his past accomplishments. What was he doing instead?

Verses 13-14 say it all: “Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.” Paul had not stopped pressing on toward the finish line. What was this finish line Paul talked about? Just like the summit of Everest motivates climbers to push on, the goal of living his entire life for Jesus motivated Paul to stay strong in his faith. He wasn’t about to give up just because things got hard. He was concentrating on the goal.

You are called to live the exact same way. In a world that will happily knock you down because of your faith in Christ, you must be willing to pick yourself back up and press forward. God desires for you to live this way. And He has sent you His Spirit to keep you strong. There is nothing left for you to do but to face the goal and press onward. Keep climbing, keep running, and keep moving toward the goal of a powerful life lived for Christ.

Student Devotion Week 4: Loving The Unlovable

Key Verses: John 17:26, "I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”

Before the book is closed on the idea of loving those who persecute you, you have a little more work to do.

You've already thought about the concept of an enemy. Now, you have to figure out exactly what it means to love them.

Keep in mind that this whole conversation started because of what Jesus said in Luke 6:27: "But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you." The important thing is to figure out just what Jesus wants us to do about dealing with those who definitely do not love us. After all, He said we were to love them, right?

You’re probably aware that there are a few different Greek words for love in the New Testament. The word Jesus used here for love comes from the Greek word, agape (pronounced, uh-GAH-pay). The New Testament writers used agape to describe the perfect love of God for His Son (John 17:26). Agape was also used to describe the sacrificial love Jesus had for us, demonstrated by His death on the cross. Agape is the type of love that comes from God, a love that loves in spite of wrongdoings and a love that sacrifices everything for another person.

Sorry to break this to you, but this is the kinds of love you are supposed to have for those who are against you. You are supposed to love your enemies sacrificially, in the perfect love of Christ. Ouch…This is not going to be easy, is it?

Honestly, this type of love for your enemies doesn’t happen overnight. And it can’t happen without prayer, commitment, and the power of the Holy Spirit. It might take a while, but if you stick with it, you can develop the kind of heart that seeks to show the love of Christ to those who are opposed to you.

Spend some time in prayer. Visualize the people who seem set against you. Now, say a prayer for those people. Pray that God will meet their needs. Finally, pray that your heart would be softened toward them. Pray that you would begin to love them in the spirit of God’s love for you.

Trust the Lord to begin to change your heart. He will help you begin to show love to those who might seem unlovable. And through it all, you will bring honor and glory to God.

Student Devotion Week 3: Going on the Defense

Key Verses: Ephesians 6:10-18, "¹⁰ Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. ¹¹ Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. ¹² For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities,against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. ¹³ Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. ¹⁴ Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, ¹⁵ and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. ¹⁶ In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. ¹⁷ Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.¹⁸ And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people."

The Apostle Paul understood conflict with the world. Paul had been stoned and left for dead, whipped, beaten, and run out of various cities, all because he willingly gave his life to serve Christ.

One of the most well-known passages of the New Testament is Paul's description of the spiritual armor of God. In describing it, Paul helps us see that not only is our battle a real one against evil, but that God has equipped us to be victorious. Let's take a closer look.

Open your Bible to Ephesians 6:10-18. Paul did a cool job of providing perspective on nature of conflict.  What did Paul say in verse 12 that speaks to who the real enemy is? Paul said the real enemy is not other people ("flesh and blood"), but the evil spiritual forces at work in this world. How might this shift in perspective help you deal with people who seem to be your enemies? In verse 11, the Greek word Paul used for "full armor," is the term used for the full equipment, both defensive and offensive, of the heavily armed Roman foot soldier. Some scholars have even guessed that Paul was writing this letter while looking at a Roman soldier. (Remember, Paul was in jail at the time). So, when Paul talking about going into battle, he wasn't joking.

Read Ephesians 6:14. Roman soldiers would fasten their clothing securely around their waist with a belt. This made quick movements easier and was crucial to their ability to fight in combat. How does knowing the truth of God's word help your ability to respond quickly to trials? The Roman soldier's breastplate was a metal piece that protected the chest, lungs, and heart. How does living a good (righteous) life protect you from those who want to bring you down?

Read Ephesians 6:15. When going into battle, soldiers need footwear that will allow them to move quickly and cover long distances. What is it about the Gospel that makes you want to go quickly out in the world?

Read Ephesians 6:16. Roman soldiers had a large, oblong shield made of two large pieces of wood. This shield was used to defensive purposes, oftentimes for defense from the enemy's flaming arrows. In what ways does your faith help defend you from Satan's arrows of temptation?

Read Ephesians 6:17. The Roman soldier's helmet served the same purpose helmets serve today: it protected the soldier's head. How does your salvation in Christ protect you from the doubts, fears, and impure thoughts that sometimes enter your mind?

The Greek word Paul used for sword was the short, sharp sword crucial for Roman soldiers fighting in close combat. The sword is the only offensive weapon Paul mentioned. How can you depend on God's word to help you make it through tough situations?

How cool is it that you have all the available tools to help you withstand the persecution of the world? God has given you the ability to stay strong. He wants you to stay in the fight. Next time the world seems like it is against you, remember these verses and stand tall. With God by your side, you can do it!

Student Devotion Week 2: The Enemy Within

Key Verses: Romans 7:14-8:2, "¹⁴ We know that the law is spiritual; but I am unspiritual, sold as a slave to sin. ¹⁵ I do not understand what I do. For what I want to do I do not do, but what I hate I do. ¹⁶ And if I do what I do not want to do, I agree that the law is good. ¹⁷ As it is, it is no longer I myself who do it, but it is sin living in me.¹⁸ For I know that good itself does not dwell in me, that is, in my sinful nature. For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out. ¹⁹ For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.²⁰ Now if I do what I do not want to do, it is no longer I who do it, but it is sin living in me that does it. ²¹ So I find this law at work: Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me. ²² For in my inner being I delight in God’s law; ²³ but I see another law at work in me, waging war against the law of my mind and making me a prisoner of the law of sin at work within me. ²⁴ What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death? ²⁵ Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, I myself in my mind am a slave to God’s law, but in my sinful nature a slave to the law of sin. 1Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus, 2because through Christ Jesus the law of the Spirit who gives life has set you free from the law of sin and death."


Do you know people who look as if they have it all together? You can see how close they are to God and how awesome their lives seem. You say to yourself, "I wish I were just like them." Here's a little secret: Even the most spiritually mature Christ-followers sin...all the time. And while you should have people in your life who are spiritual mentors, it's important to realize that no one is good enough in him or herself to live a sin-free life.


Why? Because all people have what's called a "sin nature." This is the part of us that seeks to look out for ourselves first. This is the part of ourselves that we do battle with. Our sin nature is where temptation becomes reality. No one is immune to it. Not even the strongest Christ-followers you know. Not even the Apostle Paul.


Paul wrote an awesome passage about this in his letter to the Romans. You can read the entire passage in Romans 7:14-8:2. But here's a paraphrase of a part of it from The Message paraphrase. In this section, Paul was talking about the internal battle with his sin nature. See if you can relate to his struggle:


“But I need something more! For if I know the law but still can't keep it, and if the power of sin within me keeps sabotaging my best intentions, I obviously need help! I realize that I don't have what it takes. I can will it, but I can't do it. I decide to do good, but I don't really do it; I decide not to do bad, but then I do it anyway. My decisions, such as they are, don't result in actions. Something has gone wrong deep within me and gets the better of me every time. It happens so regularly that it's predictable. The moment I decide to do good, sin is there to trip me up. I truly delight in God's commands, but it's pretty obvious that not all of me joins in that delight. Parts of me covertly rebel, and just when I least expect it, they take charge.” Romans 7:17-23


Can you relate to Paul? Have you ever felt like there were times when no matter how hard you try, you just could not control your sin nature? What can you do in these times to keep from falling over and over again? Thankfully, Paul gives us some advice:

“I've tried everything and nothing helps. I'm at the end of my rope. Is there no one who can do anything for me? Isn't that the real question? The answer, thank God, is that Jesus Christ can and does. He acted to set things right in this life of contradictions where I want to serve God with all my heart and mind, but am pulled by the influence of sin to do something totally different.” Romans 7:24-25


Jesus has set you free from the power of sin. While you will always battle with your sin nature, take comfort in the fact that Christ has ultimately defeated the power of sin over the world. He has given you the strength to fight when you think you cannot fight anymore. Next time you find yourself in the struggle, stop and thank Jesus for providing you with a way out.

Student Devotion Week 1: The Real Enemy

Key Verses: John 15:18-25; 16:33 (18 “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first. 19 If you belonged to the world, it would love you as its own. As it is, you do not belong to the world, but I have chosen you out of the world. That is why the world hates you. 20 Remember what I told you: ‘A servant is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted me, they will persecute you also. If they obeyed my teaching, they will obey yours also. 21 They will treat you this way because of my name, for they do not know the one who sent me. 22 If I had not come and spoken to them, they would not be guilty of sin; but now they have no excuse for their sin. 23 Whoever hates me hates my Father as well. 24 If I had not done among them the works no one else did, they would not be guilty of sin. As it is, they have seen, and yet they have hated both me and my Father. 25 But this is to fulfill what is written in their Law: ‘They hated me without reason.’ 33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”)

History is full of examples of undeserved persecution.

During the Russian Civil War nearly 500,000 Cossacks were killed or deported by the Bolsheviks.

At one time in the history of both South Africa and the United States, having black skin meant an individual was a second-class citizen.

In World War II, the Nazis sought to exterminate the Jews simply due to their ethnic origin.

The U.S. Government decimated the Native American population in the 19th century in an effort to take over their land.

In each of these cases, and in the numerous other instances of persecution, the parties being persecuted did nothing to deserve the treatment they experienced. The persecution was unjust, unexpected, and completely unfounded.

There is a different kind of persecution going on all over the world today. This persecution is ages old. And it was predicted thousands of years ago. Yet, it goes on today...still. The interesting thing is that you might have even experienced it.

What is persecution? It is the persecution Christ-followers experience because of the name of Jesus. Maybe you've had conflict in your life because you identify yourself as a follower of Jesus. If you have ever stood up for your faith, and someone made fun of or marginalized you because of it, then you know what it means to feel rejected because of Christ.

But this should come as no surprise to you. In fact, Jesus predicted it long ago. Read John 15:18-25 and John 16:33. People hated Jesus simply because He was God's son. Jesus knew this. And He knew that people would hate you because you follow God's son. While it might not seem fair or logical, it is part of the truth of being a disciple of Jesus.


So how should you respond? Pray for those who persecute you. Live a life of obedience and commitment to God regardless of what happens. And take confidence in Jesus' words recorded in John chapter 16: "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart!"

Student Devotion Week 6: Barnabas: Supporting As We Go

Key Verses:  Acts 4:36-37, “36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means “son of encouragement”), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.”
Acts 11:19-30, “19 Now those who had been scattered by the persecution that broke out when Stephen was killed traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, spreading the word only among Jews. 20 Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. 21 The Lord’s hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord. 22 News of this reached the church in Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23 When he arrived and saw what the grace of God had done, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. 24 He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord. 25 Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26 and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch. 27 During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28 One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.) 29 The disciples, as each one was able, decided to provide help for the brothers and sisters living in Judea.30 This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.”

What do Heath Ledger as the Joker in The Dark Knight (2008) and Jennifer Hudson as Effie in Dream Girls (2006) have in common? Nothing at first glance, they couldn’t be more opposite. But as unique as these characters seem in their movies, each won the Academy Award for best supporting role. Neither of the stories would be the same without their contributions. In fact, though neither of these actors played their respective plots’ main character, this is quite possibly the person who comes to mind as making the film truly great.

Similarly, it would be hard to argue against a guy named Barnabas being the obvious frontrunner if such an award existed in the New Testament. Although, if he were given a little gold statue, he would probably sell it and give the money away! (Read Acts 4:36-37 to see why.)

Every time Barnabas is mentioned in Scripture, he is encouraging someone else, supporting God’s bigger story, and enabling others to play their parts. He is not fighting for the spotlight; he is simply fulfilling his role in the mission. Now turn over and read Acts 11:19-30.

Barnabas had a reputation for being trustworthy, generous, and supportive. He did whatever was needed at the time and many lives were changed as a result.

What about your role in God’s mission? How are you known? If you are a Christ-follower, then you are part of His story now. Are you willing to play whatever part is necessary, following the Spirit’s direction? There are people in your life that need to be encouraged. They need to not only hear about God’s grace, but to also experience it through your generosity. Your life is not about you. Jesus is the Hero. You play a supporting role in the greatest adventure of love and mystery ever known. Give everything you’ve got to make the story of Christ famous TODAY.

Student Devotion Week 5: Philip: Anytime, Anywhere

Key Verse: Acts 8:26-40, " 26 Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, “Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza.” 27 So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian [a] eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of the Kandake (which means “queen of the Ethiopians”). This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the Book of Isaiah the prophet. 29 The Spirit told Philip, “Go to that chariot and stay near it.”

30 Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. “Do you understand what you are reading?” Philip asked.

31 “How can I,” he said, “unless someone explains it to me?” So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.

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. In his humiliation he was deprived of justice.

33 Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth.”
34 The eunuch asked Philip, “Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?” 35 Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.

36 As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, “Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?” 37 Philip said, “If you believe with all your heart, you may.” The eunuch answered, “I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.” 38 And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. 39 When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing. 40 Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea."

"Be Prepared." This has been the Scout motto for 100 years. Millions of young people around the world have been raised to be ready for any opportunity that may present itself...at least in theory. (Trying and untying knots may not be quite as essential a skill as it was back in the day). From Hank Aaron to Steven Spielberg, Martha Stewart to Bill Gates, people from all kinds of backgrounds grew up with this simple idea echoing in their minds. But maybe Scouts was never your thing. Sure, the cookies may be great but badges and uniforms had zero appeal. Regardless of how comfortable you feel in shorts and tall socks, the concept of being prepared is one we all need to embrace.

Read Acts 8:26-40. Philip was prepared to obey God immediately, going to a desert road and then running up to a man traveling home. When Philip approached the Ethiopian eunuch, he stepped right into a situation to share the story of Jesus. He was prepare to answer the man’s question about Scripture. When the royal official responded to the gospel in faith, Philip was prepared to baptize the new believer. Then, he was on his way again, ready to go anywhere God led him and to talk with anyone who crossed his path.

Are your prepared? If God provided the opportunities would you be able to step in and respond with faith and obedience? With Philip, God provided the direction, the opportunity, and the perfect timing. (They just happened to be passing water in the desert deep enough for both of them to go down into for baptism!) Are you listening to the Spirit, looking for God to open doors, and running through them when He does? When opportunity knocks, are you prepared to share the good news of Jesus Christ anytime, anywhere, with anyone?

Student Devotional Week 4: Nehemiah: Rising to the Challenge

Key Verse: Nehemiah 4:1-3, "When Sanballat heard that we were rebuilding the wall, he became angry and was greatly incensed. He ridiculed the Jews, 2 and in the presence of his associates and the army of Samaria, he said, “What are those feeble Jews doing? Will they restore their wall? Will they offer sacrifices? Will they finish in a day? Can they bring the stones back to life from those heaps of rubble —burned as they are?” 3 Tobiah the Ammonite, who was at his side, said, “What they are building—even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall of stones!” 

The checkout line is littered with them...gossip magazines and bizarre tabloids. Cheap photo tricks, made up news, shocking headlines, and heartless jabs. These magazines aren't concerned with journalistic integrity to say the least; they're out for blood and money. It doesn't matter who gets hurt in the process, as long as you buy into the hype. The paparazzi are like snipers, poaching celebrity privacy in hunt for some juicy scandal or dirty little secret. If they can't dig one up, they'll create one. Relations, body image, steroids-whatever. The worse, the better. If a public figure is going to survive today' media-saturated climate, he or she needs to learn how to tune out the noise. (It also helps to actually stay out of trouble!)

First read Nehemiah 4:1-3. God's people endured some real critics. The harshness of the ridicule may get lost in translation, but the Jews were seriously harassed. Sanballat led the charge, rallying support form the wealthy and influential establishment. But Nehemiah was not discouraged. Now read Nehemiah 6:5-9. When mockery didn't prove to be a sufficient deterrent, Sanballat began writing lies. Again, Nehemiah ignored the lies, dismissing the false accusations as existing only in his enemies' mind. Instead of giving up, Nehemiah rose to meet the challenge, praying for God's strength. The result: He saw the impossible made possible.

Whether you like it or not, whether you think it's fair or unfair, people are watching you. If you start taking this "God thing" seriously, people aren't  going to be cool with it. But when insults and rumors begin spreading about your radical lifestyle and impossibly idealistic perspective, what will you do? Will you cave, crumbling under the pressure like the rubble of an old wall, or will you pray for God's strength to complete the mission He has given you?

Student Devotional Week 3 John The Baptist: On Mission Regardless of the Cost

Key Verses: Mark 6:17-29, "¹⁷ For Herod himself had given orders to have John arrested, and he had him bound and put in prison. He did this because of Herodias, his brother Philip’s wife, whom he had married.¹⁸ For John had been saying to Herod, “It is not lawful for you to have your brother’s wife.”¹⁹ So Herodias nursed a grudge against John and wanted to kill him. But she was not able to, ²⁰ because Herod feared John and protected him, knowing him to be a righteous and holy man. When Herod heard John, he was greatly puzzled; yet he liked to listen to him. ²¹ Finally the opportune time came. On his birthday Herod gave a banquet for his high officials and military commanders and the leading men of Galilee. ²² When the daughter of Herodias came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his dinner guests. The king said to the girl, “Ask me for anything you want, and I’ll give it to you.” ²³ And he promised her with an oath, “Whatever you ask I will give you, up to half my kingdom.” ²⁴ She went out and said to her mother, “What shall I ask for?” “The head of John the Baptist,” she answered. ²⁵ At once the girl hurried in to the king with the request: “I want you to give me right now the head of John the Baptist on a platter.” ²⁶ The king was greatly distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he did not want to refuse her. ²⁷ So he immediately sent an executioner with orders to bring John’s head. The man went, beheaded John in the prison, ²⁸ and brought back his head on a platter. He presented it to the girl, and she gave it to her other. ²⁹ On hearing of this, John’s disciples came and took his body and laid it in a tomb."

First in line... everything in you wants to be first in line. You plan on camping out for days if necessary. Worst case scenario, plan B means not even flinching at the chance to pay a scalper an outrageous price for a ticket. You have to be there. Missing out for any reason is simply not an option. Your mind even wonders to fantastic extremes of sneaking in, outrunning security, scaling walls... whatever it takes. No price is to great, no risk unreasonable; nothing will keep you from this experience of a lifetime. (Whatever your obsession: a sporting event, concert, premiere, release-you name it). 

Grab your Bible and open it to Mark 6:17-29. Read about the price John the Baptist paid for refusing to compromise his message. John has seriously offended Herodias; well, enraged is more like it. Nobody likes having his or her sin called out, and John never held any punches. As far as he was concerned, God's standard didn't play favorites, making exceptions for powerful or popular people. So when John called Herod out on his twisted little love triangle involving the wife of his brother, he stepped on toes that weren't used to getting stepped on.

It is not secret when you cross the wrong girl. Pretty "Miss Popular" ending up demanding John's head on a platter, and Herod delivered. Can't you just see that party? 

It's easy for us to think we got it so bad when others leave us out or make fun of us. Nobody will pretend like that doesn't hurt-it's real. And honestly, that might be the extent that God is calling you to endure. But are willing to stare down any suffering or rejection? And give up everything for the sake of God's kingdom? No matter how great or seeming insignificant the price, are you willing to pay the price for following Christ? And there is a cost. Everyday there is a price to pay. Like John, will you not even flinch, jumping at any opportunity to make any sacrifice in order to see God at work? Never compromise. God doesn't.

Student Devotion Week 2: Elijah: On Mission In A Hostile World

Key Verse: 1 Kings 19:1-18, "Now Ahab told Jezebel everything Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. 2 So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah to say, “May the gods deal with me, be it ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like that of one of them.”3 Elijah was afraid and ran for his life. When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, 4 while he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness. He came to a broom bush, sat down under it and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, Lord,” he said. “Take my life; I am no better than my ancestors.” 5 Then he lay down under the bush and fell asleep.All at once an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.” 6 He looked around, and there by his head was some bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. He ate and drank and then lay down again.7 The angel of the Lord came back a second time and touched him and said, “Get up and eat, for the journey is too much for you.” 8 So he got up and ate and drank. Strengthened by that food, he traveled forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God. 9 There he went into a cave and spent the night.And the word of the Lord came to him: “What are you doing here, Elijah?” 10 He replied, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.”11 The Lord said, “Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.”Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the Lord, but the Lord was not in the wind. After the wind there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake. 12 After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper. 13 When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave. Then a voice said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”14 He replied, “I have been very zealous for the Lord God Almighty. The Israelites have rejected your covenant, torn down your altars, and put your prophets to death with the sword. I am the only one left, and now they are trying to kill me too.”15 The Lord said to him, “Go back the way you came, and go to the Desert of Damascus. When you get there, anoint Hazael king over Aram. 16 Also, anoint Jehu son of Nimshi king over Israel, and anoint Elisha son of Shaphat from Abel Meholah to succeed you as prophet.17 Jehu will put to death any who escape the sword of Hazael, and Elisha will put to death any who escape the sword of Jehu. 18 Yet I reserve seven thousand in Israel—all whose knees have not bowed down to Baal and whose mouths have not kissed him.”

Have you ever tried to hide from or avoid somebody? Maybe you went the long way around the school to avoid someone on a particular hallway. Maybe somebody is always picking at you...that annoying guy who likes to see how hard he can punch people or the girl who always has some biting comment. Maybe it's even a parent; you try to stay out of the house or in your room, keeping contact to a minimum. Something happened to create tension, and now it feels like a shadow, constantly lurking under your feet and around every corner. It's miserable.

Read 1 Kings 19:1-18. By taking a stand for God against Jezebel's false prophets, Elijah had become the focus of the queen's wrath. Here, Elijah was on the run and miserable. Repeatedly, he reminded God that he always tried to do the right thing and stood up tor God's truth, but now he felt lonely and worn out. Nobody seemed to want anything to do with Elijah or God, so he started to withdraw. He tried to sleep away his rejection. He hid away in a cave. He felt as if he was the only one who cared.

But Elijah was not alone, and neither are you. God called him out of hiding. No, the world is not going to welcome you and your message with open arms. Actually, the world will resist and may even attack you and the gospel for which you live. But you can't just run away and hide. No matter what you feel like, God will not let anything overwhelm you. There are other believers out there, too.

Student Weekly Devotional Session 1: Moses: Surrender to the Mission

Key Verses: Exodus 3:1-14, "Now Moses was tending the flock of Jethro his father-in-law, the priest of Midian, and he led the flock to the far side of the wilderness and came to Horeb, the mountain of God.2 There the angel of the LORD appeared to him in flames of fire from within a bush. Moses saw that though the bush was on fire it did not burn up. 3 So Moses thought, “I will go over and see this strange sight—why the bush does not burn up.”

4 When the LORD saw that he had gone over to look, God called to him from within the bush,“Moses! Moses!”

And Moses said, “Here I am.”

5 “Do not come any closer,” God said. “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground.” 6 Then he said, “I am the God of your father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac and the God of Jacob.” At this, Moses hid his face, because he was afraid to look at God.

7 The LORD said, “I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering. 8 So I have come down to rescue them from the hand of the Egyptians and to bring them up out of that land into a good and spacious land, a land flowing with milk and honey —the home of the Canaanites, Hittites, Amorites, Perizzites, Hivites and Jebusites. 9 And now the cry of the Israelites has reached me, and I have seen the way the Egyptians are oppressing them.10 So now, go. I am sending you to Pharaoh to bring my people the Israelites out of Egypt.”

11 But Moses said to God, “Who am I that I should go to Pharaoh and bring the Israelites out of Egypt?”

12 And God said, “I will be with you. And this will be the sign to you that it is I who have sent you: When you have brought the people out of Egypt, you will worship God on this mountain. ”

13 Moses said to God, “Suppose I go to the Israelites and say to them, ‘The God of your fathers has sent me to you,’ and they ask me, ‘What is his name?’ Then what shall I tell them?”

14 God said to Moses, “I AM WHO I AM. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I AM has sent me to you.’"

Viral video. The mystery and intrigue of those two words is almost unbearable. Will it be hilarious, bizarre, amazing, or disgusting? Whatever it might be, something about a viral video draws your attention. You just have to look! After seeing it, you can't help but want to share it with everyone. It gets passed around from one person to the next. It's contagious.

Check out Exodus 3:1-14. Moses was in the middle of a normal day, doing shepherd stuff, when God sent Him an incredible message. Nobody had ever seen anything like this before; Moses couldn't help but look. (Now this may not sound impressive today with our technology and special effects, but stop for a second to think about the miracle of the burning bush). The Israelites were suffering. God knew it. He drew Moses' attention and called him to take action.

Moses didn't feel worthy to be used by God, and he wasn't. Neither are we. But God is calling us to action as well. There are people all around you in bondage to sin, suffering from abuse, or crying out in exhaustion. The truth will set them free. What does God have to do to get your attention, so that you will listen and respond?

Two words: I AM. (That's how God identified Himself to Moses). Unlike everything else, God doesn't change. He isn't some passing fad. God is mysterious. Life with Him should intrigue you. It's OK if it even scares you a little. But once you get a glimpse of God's mission, it becomes contagious. You can't wait to share Him with everyone else. So, spread the gospel today. God is aware of what's happening and He's asking you to step up, speak out, and do something about it!

Student Devotion Week 6: Cause and Effect

Key Verses: Romans 15:1-7, "We who are strong ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. 2 Each of us should please our neighbors for their good, to build them up. 3 For even Christ did not please himself but, as it is written: “The insults of those who insult you have fallen on me.” 4 For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. 5 May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, 6 so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. 7 Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."

Take a moment and clear your mind of any distraction. Don't think about your responsibilities, or problems, or stressors...just relax for a second-for real.

Relaxed? Mind clear? Good...

Here's a statement to think about now that you're in the mood for thinking?

The life of a follower is hard.

Living as a Christ-follower in this world is not easy, is it? The more devoted you are to doing what God wants you to do, the harder it gets. It's easier to go with the crowd than it is to take a stand. How are you supposed to stay strong? How are you supposed to keep going in this world where it seems like everyone is against you?

As you might imagine, the Bible has a few things to say about this. Pause for a moment and read Romans 15:1-7. If you look closely, there are two verses in this passage that will help you out tremendously in living the life of a Christ-follower.

Verse 4 promises encouragement and confidence from reading God's Word. Now, don't take this lightly. The Bible is not like any other book. Hebrews 4:12 says that it is "living and active." Romans 15:4 alludes to this. Paul said that everything recorded in scripture is written so that you might have hope and encouragement when things get tough. When life gets you down, turn to God's Word. This is one of the reasons He gave it to us.

The second promise for helping you out in this life is found in verse 5. Read it again. Here, God promises to give you encouragement, endurance, and a spirit of unity. So not only will God supernaturally give you His strength to stay strong and finish the race, but He also promises to surround you with fellow followers so you are not on this journey alone. How cool is that?

When life gets you down or when you are beaten up because you took a stand for Christ, turn to His Word and to your friends who share your faith. Doing both of these will not only help you on your journey, but you will also glorify God as the giver of good things. He is your Father and He loves to take care of His children. Give God a chance to show you how good He is at it.

Student Devotion Week 5: The Good Life

Key Verses: Romans 12:9-21, "9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10 Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11 Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12 Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13 Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15 Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16 Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. 17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. 18 If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19 Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. 20 On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."


James Frey had an amazing story. And it was immediately obvious that people wanted to hear him tell it. Frey's bestselling book, A Million Little Pieces, is a chilling account of a life of drug addiction and harmful behavior. Frey painted a picture that was painfully honest, with graphic details of the sinister life he lived while addicted to drugs. Oprah invited him on her show and featured his book in her book club. People all over America were captivated.

There was one problem though. Frey had made up most of the story. He had lied about or otherwise exaggerated many of the accounts in the book.

Read Romans 12:9-21. Paul said a lot here. He basically summed up what it means to live a life of Christian character. He outlined many ways humanity can live according to God's standards. But maybe the line that serves as the best summary of the passage is in verse 9: "Hate what is evil; cling to what is good."

If we are to follow Christ, we must hate what is evil. We must live a life that clings to the good things of God. Why? First of all, Christ commanded us to live this way. All of scripture attests to the fact that God is holy, righteous, and just. As His children, our lives should mirror His character.

But the other reason we should live good lives is because our lives are our most powerful testimony to the world. The world hates a fake. James Frey is a perfect example. His fans turned on him when they found out his stories were embellished. Those we are trying to influence for Christ will turn on us if our actions do not match our professed beliefs. If you say you are a Christ-follower, you must be prepared to live a life that testifies to God's greatness.

The worst thing you can do is to communicate to the world that following Christ doesn't change your life. If you live like the rest of the world, you show people that Jesus isn't important enough to make a difference. You say to the world that there is no rush to turn your life over to Christ.

Don't send the wrong message! Live a right life for Christ...today!