New Start Devotional for Students

HEY YOU, YES YOU, THE ONE READING THIS DEVOTIONAL RIGHT NOW. We want you to know that, if you’re reading this, God has something amazing in store just for you. Whether you’ve been a Christian for some time or this is your first time making a decision for Christ, the purpose of this devotional is to help elevate your relationship with God. It is our prayer that over the next 21 days, you will learn about your internal transformation (New Self), how that transformation will impact those around you (New Life), where your beliefs come from (New Faith), and ultimately discover who God truly is (Same God).

Before you begin this journey, take some time to set your intentions. Will you read the devotional before or after school? Will you do this devotional with your friends or on your own? How much time can you devote to reading, responding, and reflecting each day?

Write down your prayers. Is there a space in your life that requires clarity, healing, peace, or love? Once your intentions and prayers have been set and you’ve made space for God to show up – pray these words: God, over these next three weeks I want to get to know you better. I pray that you will help me begin to hear your voice and see how you are showing up in my life. I pray that each day I get to become closer to you. I pray that as I grow, I inspire others to grow as well. Help me see the world through your eyes and be a source of light in this world. Thank you for loving me now and being with me always.

In Jesus’ name, I pray and count these things done. Amen.

Now, we want you to know that God is not a vending machine. There is no right way to pray or study that will make all your dreams come true. When we accept Christ, we accept that the will of God outweighs our own, and trust that what He has for us is greater than what we desire for ourselves. And that is why community is so important.

When things don’t go our way, or we face loss, hurt, or disappointment, it is key to have people to go to who can help encourage you in your faith. If you’re reading this right now and you did not have someone before you opened this book, please know that you do now.

I, Rev. Van, and the entire Kingdom Youth Ministry have your back and we are excited to support you along this journey. Email us, hit us up on socials, or find us at Kingdom! In the meantime, give yourself grace as you try your best to hold yourself to the goals and intentions you’ve set. Finally, remember as you move through this text, that the goal isn’t just to finish – it is to grow. Stay encouraged, and always remain Kingdom Focused.

Rev. Mariah Crews (Rev. Mimi) Minister to Students Rev. Vincent Van (Rev. Van) Senior Youth Minister

Okay, let me run that back, the next page is not for you – remember when I mentioned that God desires for us to be connected with people as we grow in our faith? This next page is for your people.

Whoever that is for you!

A parent?

A big cousin?

A friend?

A coach?

Pick someone that you know loves God and that you’d be comfortable talking to as you continue to learn and discover who God is and who you are in Christ!

Once you figure out who that person is rip out (or take a screenshot if you don’t want your book to lose a page! We know you care about the environment!) the next page and give it to your person!

I’m deciding to get to know God over the next 21 days and I am so excited to see the way that God will show up!

When I made this decision, I got this handy dandy booklet (Blue’s Clues anyone?) that is going to walk me through 21 days of discovering who I am in God, how my life should impact and influence those around me, what my faith means, and who God is and always has been.

This is where you come in. I am sharing this page with you because I would love it if you will come on this journey with me. I may have questions, I may get confused, or I may just want to share some of the great things I’m learning, and I would love it if I could share those things with you.

No pressure, but – it is for Jesus so there may be a hint of pressure!

I’m just kidding. And look, it’s okay if you don’t know all the answers.

I just want to know that I have someone to go to who can listen and support me in this journey.

Thank you so much for being someone I trust enough to share this with and for being such an important part of my life!

I can’t wait to see what happens over these next 3 weeks, and I am so thankful to you for being there for me as I do!

From, well, me!

__________________________ Write Name Here!

Good job!

Now let’s keep it going!

Below you will find mini breakdowns of each section of the book. Take a look because this book is not tied to any specific order. Feel free to hop around! Feel like learning more about who God is? Jump to “Same God.” Want to circle back and get to know more about how your life should change after choosing God? Jump to “New Life.” Wherever you want to start, go ahead and do it. This is your journey, and we want you to be able to do it your way!

NEW SELF

This section is all about you! No, I’m just kidding, but this section is about discovering and understanding the internal transformation that begins once you choose Christ. In this section, you will read Scriptures and think about how you think about you. It will teach you about spiritual gifts, and the power to overcome negative thoughts so that you can access the abundant life God promises us.

NEW LIFE

This section is about the folks around you. Too often we focus on ourselves and stop there. Today’s culture may be centered around a “me-first” mentality, but our faith is counter-cultural. This section is all about how once you are changed you should see the world in a new way. And – more importantly – you should show up in the world differently. And when you show up differently your life will change in ways you’d never imagined before.

NEW FAITH

This section right here is about the key components of our faith! This section is super important because in order for you to stand tall on the word, you must know the reasons we do what we do. In this section, you will learn about the sacraments, which are the outward signs of our internal beliefs. And each one comes straight from the word of God. It’s key that you know the “why” behind what we do as believers. This section will help you understand the things you may have seen – or may have even been a part of – on a deeper level, which, in turn, will help you get to know more about our God!

SAME GOD

Okay so boom, this God we have been talking about, this God you’ve chosen to begin this journey with, this God is not new. God may be new to you, but this God is the same God who got our ancestors through slavery. This is the God that our grandparents, aunties, and uncles, prayed to about you. This God is the God that knows every hair on your head, and every mistake you’ve ever made and LOVES YOU ANYWAY. This section is all about God and Godself. So, dive into this section to learn more about our Creator.

As you move through each section, you’ll notice three words that show up again and again.

Read – Re flect – Respon d These words are important for two reasons.

1. Alliteration is awesome!

2. It will help you to focus and dig deeper as you unpack the word of God. As you read, take your time, write down any words you don’t understand – make note of anything that makes you think, and then read it again!

This will allow you to really soak in the word of God. As you reflect, dig into all the things you noticed as you read. Define the words you didn’t initially recognize, research the aspects of the Scripture that you didn’t understand and think about how those discoveries impact the way you connect with the word, with other people, and with God. As you respond, loop in your people. After you answer the questions we provide at the end of each day, connect with someone, and talk about it!

Allow what you learned to shift the way you move the following day and make note of the changes that take place through and around you as a result!

Ephesians 4:21-24 NIV When you heard about Christ and were taught in him in accordance with the truth that is in Jesus. 22 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; 23 to be made new in the attitude of your minds; 24 and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.”

“21

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01

The book of Ephesians is a letter written by one of Jesus’ apostles, Paul to the new believers in the church of Ephesus. Paul spent most of his ministry helping new Christians become acclimated with both the word of God and one another. This Scripture specifically speaks about how learning of and accepting Christ – is meant to go hand in hand with an internal transformation. Putting on your new self requires that you know what God says about who you are now that you have accepted Christ as your Savior.

There are certain things that you used to do and desire, that you should try your best to stop doing and desiring moving forward. And, my young queens and kings, this is not an easy shift. The fact that Paul had to write this letter in the first place is a testament to the fact that the Saints of Ephesus were struggling with doing this very thing. He wanted to encourage these people, and now us, to let go of the way we used to operate and embrace how God calls us to show up in your family, in your friend groups, in the community and this world.

Now, each morning after you wake up, and before you walk out of the door there are some things you must do to prepare to enter the world. Most notably, you have to get dressed. When you become a Christian, it is important for you to always remember that before you go outside, mentally – spiritually – and emotionally – you need to remind yourself that you are chosen, you are forgiven, you are anointed, and you are covered.

And when you know who you are in Christ, you show up differently in the world.

What are some shifts in attitude, mindset, and desire that you believe God is calling you to make?

Ephesians 6:14-18 NIV

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02

“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.”

While the “New self,” Scripture can seem general, our Scripture for today gets very specific.

What is being referred to in this text, is the “Armor of God.” The Armor of God is what we gain access to as soon as we accept Christ as our Savior. The truth is, even though it would be great to say that the temptations and attacks of the enemy will disappear as soon as we choose Christ, the fact is the enemy will only come at you even harder. When you accepted Christ, you tapped into a sea of power and purpose and the enemy does not want you to use that power and purpose to set other people free. That is why in this text Paul is showing us that all we need to do - to withstand the tricks, schemes, and lies of the enemy - is put on God’s armor!

We should be honest, pursue righteousness, promote, and exhibit peace, have faith in our God, and remember that we are covered by our salvation and strengthened by the Holy Spirit.

Remember, that as long as you put on the full Armor of God, there is nothing you cannot overcome.

Several items make up the Armor of God. As you move through your day, how can you practice each of them?

2 Timothy 1:6-7 NKJV “ Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God which is in you through the laying on of my hands. 7 For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”

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Fear is one of the most toxic spirits in this world. If allowed in the driver’s seat of our lives it can cause us to miss out on the move of God because we are too afraid to truly trust Him. This Scripture doesn’t say that fear won’t ever exist in us, but it does remind us that because we are God’s children, our fear does not get the final say in our lives. God gave us precious gifts, and all we have to do to use them is stir them up. We can “stir up our gifts” by studying the Bible, praying with intention (not just out of habit), and both attending and paying attention in church.

We have the ability to overcome our fears by choosing to lean into the power, love, and peace of God instead.

How can you remove fear from the driver’s seat of your life and put the power, love, and peace of God in control?

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04

Philippians 4:6-7 NIV “6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

In this world, anxiety is another one of those heavyhitting spirits. It can paralyze you in the same way fear and insecurity can. But God gives us a solution, a way to ease our anxiety. And that solution is achieved through prayer. It is prayer that allows us to access the peace of God. When we lay down our burdens, our hurts, and our mistakes at God’s feet through prayer, he lifts those things that weigh us down and provides us with this peace that “surpasses all understanding.” This means that you will have peace in dark seasons, in valleys, in the pits of life – and it won’t make sense to anyone outside of the kingdom of God. There could be someone in the same situation that freaks out, panics, and is overwhelmed by anxiety but you won’t be because you’ll have peace. The peace that comes from knowing that no matter what you go through, and no matter what mistakes you’ve made, God has you and God will secure a win just for you.

What are some burdens you need to take to God in prayer?

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05

Joshua 1:9 NIV “9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

This Scripture is a message from God to Joshua, the one who was chosen to lead after Moses died. There are a few things that are especially important to note here. The first is that Moses left some really big shoes to fill. By God’s might, Moses parted the Red Sea, made water pour out of a solid rock, and brought down the commandments of God, and nothing is bigger than the fact that he set the Israelites free from slavery.

Joshua is the next generation. He is in the generation that would benefit from all of the work that the generations before him had done. He would get to access a promised land that his very own mentor never got to see. Simply put, Joshua was under a lot of pressure. Sound familiar? Then God steps in and says to him that he should not be worried or afraid about all that he was being asked to do because God would be with him.

When we remember that God will be with us when He calls us to do more, go farther, and be greater, it should help us to stand strong and be courageous in all things because we know that our God is with us at all times.

How can knowing that God is with you, help you to be more courageous and stronger today?

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06

Romans 15:13 NIV “13 May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

Hope is one of the most powerful gifts God gives us. It’s right up there with redemption and love. And here’s why: hope is what How can hope keeps us going when times help you to be are hard, when we can’t see a way out or encouraged in a way through, or when we go through dark seasons? seasons of loss, hurt, and disappointment.

How does It’s hope that encourages us to pick our heads back up and keep trying no matter knowing that how many times we fall or fail because we it’s one of God’s know that greater is coming. And hope is greatest gifts a gift of the Holy Spirit. This world is filled make you feel? with people who have given up, and simply lost hope. But because of God, and because we are believers in Christ, we get to have an abundance of hope, joy, and peace.

The next time you feel like you can’t press through, or overcome, think of this Scripture, and remember that God still has something amazing for you. And that whatever you are facing now, it will not compare to what God has in store for you next.

2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

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“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”

In the busy hallways of high school life, it’s easy to get lost in the noise, to feel defined by the expectations and How can pressures that surround us. you actively Yet, in the midst of this chaos, embrace the God offers a radical invitation – an invitation to be made new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares reality of being that in Christ, a new creation emerges. It’s a new creation not just about tweaking the surface but in Christ in undergoing a profound transformation from your daily life? the inside out. As high schoolers navigating What specific a world that constantly bombards us with choices or influences from TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, we are reminded from this that actions can we are not confined to our past mistakes reflect this or societal labels. Through Christ, we can newness to shed the old self – the insecurities, fears, those around and doubts – and step into a new identity. you?

Imagine what it means to carry this truth into your high school halls, to let it shape the way you interact with others, the decisions you make, and the compassion you extend. It’s an invitation to live boldly and authentically, reflecting the transformative power of Christ in every aspect of our lives.

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08

Matthew 5:16 NIV “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

High school is a stage where our actions speak volumes, where every choice and deed echoes in the halls long after we’ve moved on.

Matthew 5:16 challenges us to consider the impact of our lives on those around us. It’s a call to be more than just students; it’s a call to be beacons of light.

In the midst of academic challenges, social dynamics, and personal struggles, how can we let our light shine? This light isn’t a blinding spotlight but a gentle glow that emanates from a life lived with purpose and love. As high schoolers, our “good deeds” might be simple acts of kindness, words of encouragement, or a listening ear for a friend in need. Each of these actions becomes an opportunity to glorify our Father in heaven. It’s a reminder that, even in high school, we have the power to positively influence the world around us.

Let your light shine, and in doing so, let it point others to the source of that light – our heavenly Father.

How can you intentionally let your light shine in your high school environment this week? Consider one practical way you can demonstrate kindness or encourage a classmate or Squadz member.

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09

Galatians 6:15 NIV “Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation.”

High school is a place of constant comparison, where the quest for identity can feel like a never-ending journey.

In the midst of this, Galatians 6:15 whispers a profound truth: “Neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything; what counts is the new creation.” This verse challenges the societal metrics that often define our worth – our appearance, achievements, or popularity. As high schoolers, it’s easy to get caught up in the external markers of success, but this Scripture redirects our focus. It’s a call to embrace a new way of measuring value – the measure of a heart transformed by Christ. Imagine navigating high school with this perspective, valuing people not for their outward appearances or accomplishments but for the inward renewal happening in their hearts.

It’s an invitation to break free from the mold society tries to fit us into and to celebrate the uniqueness of each person as a new creation in Christ. In a world that often emphasizes the external, this verse challenges us to see and value ourselves and others through the lens of God’s transformative love.

In a world that often values external measures of the “culture” (popular culture), how can you celebrate and appreciate the uniqueness of each person as a new creation in Christ?

Think of a way you can encourage someone based on the qualities that make them a new creation.

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Acts 9:3-6 NIV ”3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?’ 5’Who are you, Lord?’ Saul asked, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting,’ he replied.

6 ’Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do.”

Paul’s Damascus experience in Acts 9:3-6 is a powerful narrative of a life radically transformed by encountering the living Christ. As a high schooler, you might relate to moments when life seems routine and predictable, much like Paul’s journey to Damascus. But just as God disrupted Paul’s path, He has a way of intercepting our lives with transformative encounters. In those moments, like Paul, we’re confronted with the reality of Jesus, challenging our preconceived notions and life trajectories. Just as Paul fell to the ground in awe and surrender, there are times in high school when God’s presence becomes undeniable, prompting us to reevaluate our priorities, values, and life’s purpose.

Imagine the impact of experiencing God’s presence so profoundly that it reshapes your entire perspective, much like it did for Paul. This passage reminds us that God’s transformative encounters are not confined to biblical times; they are woven into the fabric of our lives. Consider how Paul’s Damascus Road experience propelled him into a life of unwavering devotion to Christ. In the same way, our encounters with God have the potential to redefine our identity and purpose, leading us to live boldly for the One who transforms us. As high schoolers let’s anticipate and embrace those divine encounters that have the power to redirect our paths and inspire a life devoted to Christ’s transformative love.

Reflect on a time when you felt God’s presence in a way that reshaped your perspective.

Consider how that experience influenced your choices and priorities. Share your reflections with someone and discuss how those encounters with God can inspire a life devoted to Christ in the midst of high school challenges.

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Romans 12:2 NIV “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”

God’s desire for you is not conformity but transformation.

The world may exert pressure to conform to its How can you standards, but you are called actively resist to a different path. Let the conforming to renewing work of God transform your mind, the patterns shaping your thoughts and perspectives according to His will. As a high schooler, this of the world may mean standing out and making choices in your high that align with God’s goodness rather than school context? following the patterns of the world. Your Identify an transformed life becomes a testament to aspect of your the goodness and perfection of God’s will, life where you impacting those around you as you navigate the challenges of adolescence with a can intentionally renewed perspective. resist the

temptations of your generation.

Mark 15:22-25; 33-34; 37 NIV

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“22 They brought Jesus to the place called Golgotha (which means “the place of the skull”). 23 Then they offered him wine mixed with myrrh, but he did not take it. 24 And they crucified him. Dividing up his clothes, they cast lots to see what each would get. 25 It was nine in the morning when they crucified him.”

“33 At noon, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. 34 And at three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”).”

“37 With a loud cry, Jesus breathed his last.”

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ is a profound act of love for us. Think of it like a superhero sacrificing themselves to save the world. Jesus, in His In what ways crucifixion, took upon Himself the weight of our sins, enduring pain and does Jesus’ separation from God. This sacrifice is like a sacrifice impact shield that absorbs the blows of our mistakes, or inspire you to allowing us to experience forgiveness and pursue Him? reconciliation with God. It’s as if a hero takes the hit so we can go free.

The crucifixion is not just a historical event; it is a rescue mission, ensuring that we, as imperfect beings, can be made whole through the incredible love displayed on the cross. So, when you face challenges or mistakes, remember the cross, your ultimate shield and source of redemption.

Matthew 28:1-6 NIV

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“1 After the Sabbath, at dawn on the first day of the week, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went to look at the tomb. 2 There was a violent earthquake, for an angel of the Lord came down from heaven and, going to the tomb, rolled back the stone and sat on it. 3 His appearance was like lightning, and his clothes were white as snow. 4 The guards were so afraid of him that they shook and became like dead men. 5 The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. 6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said.

Come and see the place where he lay.”

The resurrection of Christ is the heartbeat of the Christian faith. It is a miraculous event that changed everything. It is very similar to a smartphone that crashes and is then restored to its full functionality. When we restart our phones, especially when it does not seem to be operating correctly, we hold the power button, in hopes that a restart will correct what is wrong. Jesus Christ’s victory over death is just like restarting our phones. Christ’s resurrection restores our connection with God, fixes what’s broken, and renews our purpose.

His resurrection breaks the power of sin in our lives and offers us a fresh start.

Because He lives, we can face each day with confidence, knowing that His resurrection power is at work in our lives, transforming our struggles into opportunities for growth.

The resurrection is not just a historical event; it is an ongoing source of hope and life for everyone navigating the journey of faith.

How can the resurrection of Jesus Christ motivate you to restart some things in your own life?

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Romans 10:9-10 NIV “9 If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.

10 For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”

Salvation is the incredible gift of being rescued and forgiven by God through faith in Jesus Christ. Imagine life as a journey filled with various paths, and salvation as the ultimate GPS guiding us on the right route. When you give your life to Christ, it’s like choosing to follow this trustworthy GPS. It does not mean the journey will be free of challenges, but it ensures you are on the right path with a destination of eternal joy and purpose.

Just as the GPS recalibrates when we make a wrong turn, God’s grace redirects us when we stumble. So, giving your life to Christ is like choosing the most reliable guide for your journey, a guide who not only leads you but loves you unconditionally along the way.

Can you recall a time when you were on a bad path and Christ redirected you? In what other ways can your life be redirected?

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Matthew 28:19-20 NIV “19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Baptism is a powerful and symbolic act representing a public declaration of your faith in Jesus Christ. It is like putting on a team jersey in front of a cheering crowd, declaring to everyone whose team you’re on. When you choose to be baptized, you are publicly announcing that you are a follower of Jesus. Picture it as standing at the center of a stage, holding a microphone, and telling the world that your life is now aligned with Christ.

Just as a team jersey identifies you with a specific group, baptism identifies you with a family of believers. It is not just a private decision but a bold proclamation that you are a part of God’s team, surrounded by fellow believers who support and encourage you on this incredible journey of faith.

How can you publicly declare your faith today?

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

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“23 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, 24 and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, “This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me.” 25 In the same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” 26 For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”

Communion is a sacred moment where we remember the sacrifice of Jesus and partake in the symbols of His body and blood. Imagine it as a family dinner where you gather around the table to share a meal. In communion, we come together as a family of believers to remember the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made for us. The bread represents His body broken for our sins, and the cup signifies His blood shed for our forgiveness.

Just as a family meal fosters closeness and unity, communion strengthens our connection with God and fellow believers. It is not just about eating bread and drinking juice; it is a reminder of God’s love, a moment to reflect on His grace, and an opportunity to renew our commitment to follow Him. Communion is like a family dinner where we celebrate the love that binds us together as God’s children.

In what ways, recently, have you been reminded of God’s love and grace for you?

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Matthew 4:18-20 NKJV “18 And Jesus, walking by the Sea of Galilee, saw two brothers, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea; for they were fishermen. 19 Then He said to them, ‘Follow Me, and I will make you fishers of men.’ 20 They immediately left their nets and followed Him.”

In Matthew 4:18-20, the Bible gives us a glimpse of Jesus as a leader. Jesus understood His purpose and was comfortable in leading others in their purpose. Believe it or not, you may be a leader too. Even if you don’t have a specific leadership title, know that if you influence the thinking, behavior, or development of people in their lives, you are taking on the role of a leader. You may be a leader based on your role in school, on your sports team, or in a club, or you may be a leader based on what you post on social media. Despite how you may see your role at home or what your position is at school or on your sports team, know that you are a leader in God’s Kingdom as He has called you to be His disciple.

If you feel overwhelmed by the responsibility of what it means to be a leader, know that there is one perfect leadership role model you can trust, and His name is Jesus. Jesus came to serve rather than be served. You can be a leader and example for others to follow by first being a follower of Jesus.

How can being a follower of Jesus help you to be a leader among your friends, teammates, or classmates?

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John 1:1-5 NIV “1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 He was with God in the beginning. 3 Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.

4 In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. 5 The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”

In John 1:1-5, we know that Jesus Christ is eternal. He was God’s Day One – with Him from the beginning.

Jesus Christ is divine, God in human flesh: “the Word was God.” Jesus is the Son of God sent from the Father to finish the Father’s work in the world by dying on the cross for our sins.

Take a moment to imagine a time when you experienced the beginning of something.

The beginning of a new school year; the beginning of a new sports season. Think about how important it was to have someone there to support you at the beginning.

How has God’s strength and power supported you when you started something new?

Matthew 28:5-6 NIV “ The angel said to the women, “Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified.

6 He is not here; he has risen, just as he said. Come see the place where he lay.”

5

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19

Jesus is the central figure of the Christian faith. He died for our sins and was buried in a tomb. But He rose from the dead and leveled up to the next phase in His purpose.

Think about where you were just a few years ago, and where you are now. Allow the fact that Jesus is alive and still living His purpose to encourage you to live God’s purpose for your life.

How does the truth of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection help shape the core beliefs about your faith as a Christian?

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John 14:16-17 NIV ”16And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Helper, that He may abide with you forever – 17the Spirit of Truth, whom the world cannot receive because it neither sees Him nor knows Him; but you know Him, for He dwells with you and will be in you.”

Jesus promised to never leave us alone and that He would send someone to be with us as a helper. In the Holy Spirit, Jesus is permanently with His followers. When we received the Holy Spirit, it changed everything in our ability to please God. Because God the Father was pleased with the Son’s life, He is pleased with the Son’s life in us as we are filled with the Holy Spirit.

Can you think of a time when you needed help but felt like you were all alone?

How does it make you feel knowing that God and Jesus Christ are always with you through the power of the Holy Spirit?

Day

Hebrews 13:8 NIV “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

21

The Bible tells us that Jesus is the same always and never changes. He is always good, always loving, always allpowerful. No matter how this world changes around us with technology, social media, and so much more, we can trust that Jesus is consistent.

Your friends and your family members may change how they talk and react to you as a teenager, but “Jesus is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” Even though iPhones and dances on TikTok constantly change, you can trust in God’s promises to save you, and provide for you today, tomorrow, and forever.

How can you be comforted today knowing that no matter what you do, Jesus will always love you?

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That’s part of the majesty of our faith – there’s always a new start awaiting us should we choose to open our hearts to God once more.