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    Knowing Jesus: The Essential Teen 365 Devotional
    Knowing Jesus: The Essential Teen 365 Devotional
    Knowing Jesus: The Essential Teen 365 Devotional
    Ebook659 pages10 hours

    Knowing Jesus: The Essential Teen 365 Devotional

    By B&H Kids Editorial Staff

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    About this ebook

    Have you ever wanted to be more like someone else? What about being more like Jesus—the only one who really matters? These 365 devotions for teens are filled with Scriptures and action points that focus on Christ's life, ministry, and character. They will help you better understand who the Lord is and how He can change your life in amazing ways. Spend the next year becoming more like Jesus, the ultimate role model.  
     
    Knowing Jesus is a perfect companion to the Essential Teen Study Bible.
    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherBH Publishing Group
    Release dateNov 1, 2016
    ISBN9781433644085
    Knowing Jesus: The Essential Teen 365 Devotional

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      Knowing Jesus - B&H Kids Editorial Staff

      16

      AUTHOR OF CREATION

      Read over Genesis 1 in its entirety in your Bible. As you read, take note of what this chapter teaches you about God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Jot down a few notes in your journal.

      Take note of Genesis 1:26, where God said, Let Us make man in Our image. How does this statement support your understanding of a triune God? Explain.

      The plural pronouns Us and Our in this passage hint that God exists in perfect relationship and agreement as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Believers have termed this the Trinity.

      Now, read John 1:1–5.

      In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. All things were created through Him, and apart from Him not one thing was created that has been created.—John 1:1–3

      Ask yourself:

      What does this passage teach about Jesus before His earthly ministry?

      Why is it important that believers understand that Jesus wasn’t just present at creation, but that He took an active role in it?

      RESPOND

      Take a moment to dwell on the eternal nature of Christ. Thank God that there has never been a moment when He didn’t exist or wasn’t in control.

      Ponder these thoughts: All things are created through Christ. Everything that has been created came to be because of Him. How does this change the way you view creation or the world’s resources? How does it change your attitude toward other people? Jot down three ways this will change the way you live today.

      RULER OF CREATION

      In your Bible, read Colossians 1:15–20.

      For everything was created by Him, in heaven and on earth, the visible and the invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things have been created through Him and for Him. He is before all things, and by Him all things hold together.—Colossians 1:16–17

      The term firstborn in verse 15 has nothing to do with the human birth of Christ, nor does it mean that He was created. Instead, Paul used this term to help us understand that Jesus holds first place above creation. He is the One who sustains and rules as Creator God.

      Dig deeper with these questions:

      What are some of the specific examples Paul gave in this passage that describe Christ’s authoritative role in creation? List a few.

      What does it mean to say that all things have been created through Christ and for Him? Explain in your own words.

      What word or phrase would you use to describe Paul’s view of Jesus and His importance in today’s verses? Why?

      Do you have a high view of Jesus’ importance? Why or why not?

      RESPOND

      Colossians 1:15–20 is a poem or hymn expressing Jesus’ supremacy. Using these verses as a guide, write your own hymn of praise in your journal.

      These verses attest that Jesus is supreme over all things. Are you allowing Him to be the supreme Ruler of your life? If not, what changes will you make this week to do so?

      Ponder this: every law of the universe discovered by human beings is merely a glimpse into the power and ability of our Creator. How will you allow science and nature to point you to the Creator today?

      AUTHOR OF SALVATION

      Read Hebrews 1:1–3 in your Bible. As you read, look for words or phrases that help you understand how God has revealed His character and plan in Jesus.

      In these last days, He has spoken to us by His Son. God has appointed Him heir of all things and made the universe through Him. The Son is the radiance of God’s glory and the exact expression of His nature, sustaining all things by His powerful word. After making purification for sins, He sat down at the right hand of the Majesty on high.—Hebrews 1:2–3

      Ponder these questions:

      How do these verses establish that Jesus didn’t just show up in the New Testament? Why is it important that He has always existed? Explain.

      In Jesus, we have the clearest picture of God the Father. Everything Jesus did or said during His earthly ministry points to the Father. What God has said and done in and through Jesus is definitive, His final word. How do these verses help you to understand that truth?

      Study Hebrews 1:3 more closely. While this passage establishes Jesus’ authority and power, it also points to the reason He came to live among us. What was that reason, according to verse 3?

      How did Jesus make purification for sin? Explain it in your own words.

      RESPOND

      Hebrews 1:1–3 helps us to see that Jesus is so much more than a wise teacher or a good man. Jesus is God’s Son, His final word, and the only One through whom salvation is possible. He is the eternally existent Son of God who makes forgiveness of our sins possible. Who do you say Jesus is?

      ONE LORD OF ALL

      A lot of things in our lives are good and important, but they should never overshadow the most important Person in our lives: Jesus. Read 1 Corinthians 8:4–9 in your Bible to find out why Jesus is so important.

      Yet for us there is one God, the Father. All things are from Him, and we exist for Him. And there is one Lord, Jesus Christ. All things are through Him, and we exist through Him.—1 Corinthians 8:6

      The Corinthian Christians had argued that eating food sacrificed to pagan idols was okay for them because they knew that there is only one true God. Paul agreed with that statement, but quickly clarified that believers must live in a way that does not cause others to stumble in their faith. Now, focus on verses 5–6.

      Dig deeper:

      Think about what you’ve learned about Jesus in this week’s devotions. How does this passage build on that theme?

      Underline the words or phrases in verses 5–6 that teach you something about Jesus, His character, His authority, or His role. What do these verses teach you about Christ? Explain.

      Does your life present evidence that you hold Jesus above all other things? Why or why not?

      RESPOND

      Jesus is the Giver of life and the Creator of all there is. Therefore, nothing in our lives is more important than Him.

      Evaluate your life. Consider how you spend your money and your time, plus the things you talk or think about most. What do these reveal about what’s most important in your life? If the Holy Spirit reveals that you’ve made anyone or anything more important than Jesus, confess it today.

      Take a look at the things you do or say. Is there anything you’re doing that could cause those who are weak in their faith to stumble or doubt Jesus’ power? Ask God’s forgiveness, then outline steps you will take to live in a way that honors God and helps others see Jesus’ authority in your life.

      For further study, read Ephesians 4:1–7. Read these verses over a few times and ask God to show you how to walk worthy of your calling as His child.

      CHILDREN OF GOD

      Read John 1:10–13 several times, at least once aloud.

      He was in the world, and the world was created through Him, yet the world did not recognize Him.—John 1:10

      But to all who did receive Him, He gave them the right to be children of God, to those who believe in His name.—John 1:12

      Thoughtfully answer these questions:

      Verse 10 states that even though Jesus created the world, the world did not recognize Him. What evidence do you see of this blindness in today’s culture?

      Read verse 13. In light of your deeper understanding of what it means to believe in Jesus’ name, how does someone become a child of God? Journal in your own words.

      RESPOND

      Jesus, the Creator of all there is, has made a way for us to know Him, to become children of God. Because of who He is and what He has done, Jesus has the right to rule over all of creation—including our lives.

      Is Jesus the supreme Ruler of your life? He has made a way for us to have a relationship with God, but we must respond in faith.

      Even as Christians, we sometimes try to hold back parts of our lives from Jesus’ control. Look at your life. Are you acknowledging that He is the Ruler of your life in every area? Confess anything the Holy Spirit reveals.

      WORTHY OF TRUST

      Think about the most amazing natural wonder you’ve ever seen—from a magnificent mountain to the vastness of the ocean. How did it call your attention to the Creator? Sketch that scene or journal a few thoughts.

      Now, read Isaiah 40:28–31 in your Bible.

      Do you not know? Have you not heard? Yahweh is the everlasting God, the Creator of the whole earth. He never grows faint or weary; there is no limit to His understanding.—Isaiah 40:28

      Ask yourself:

      How does the fact that the triune God created the whole earth support the idea that there is no limit to His understanding? That He is powerful and worthy of your trust? Explain.

      In what ways do these truths bring you peace when you seek wisdom from God?

      Now, read John 1:3.

      Ask yourself:

      Does focusing on Jesus as the Creator of all things give you confidence in His ability to provide strength in spite of your weakness? Why or why not?

      Nothing is created except that which God creates. How might believing this help someone to trust God with the details of his or her life?

      RESPOND

      Ponder this thought: As a Christian, you serve a God who is powerful enough to create the entire universe. That means that He is powerful enough to equip you for His service, strengthen you, and empower you. Respond in your journal.

      What is something you know God has called you to do, but you haven’t followed through with? What steps will you take to do so this week, confident in His power to guide and help you? Record two action points in your journal.

      Who in your life is going through a difficult time and needs to be reminded that God is trustworthy and faithful? How will you share your hope with that person?

      For further encouragement to trust God, read Romans 11:33–34. While God never needs to seek counsel, He always desires to provide it to those who seek Him.

      WORTHY OF WORSHIP

      Read Psalm 33:1–22 in your Bible. As you read, underline all the different ways the psalmist called the people to worship God.

      Let the whole earth tremble before the Lord; let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of Him. For He spoke, and it came into being; He commanded, and it came into existence.—Psalm 33:8–9

      Ask yourself:

      Focus on verses 8–9. Why did the psalmist say God was worthy of praise? Journal in your own words.

      The psalmist called the people to praise God as the Creator who created the world with His command. Read verse 18. What aspects of creation remind you to fear (meaning to be in awe of or have reverence for) the Lord? Why?

      What aspects of creation remind you of God’s faithful love? Explain your answer.

      Look over the passage once more, noting the things you underlined as you read. What are some active ways the psalmist called the people to praise the Lord? List a few.

      Which of the ones you listed are part of your worship? Why?

      RESPOND

      God didn’t create the world so that we would worship what He had made. He created the world so that we would be in awe of Him and worship Him alone. Creation is meant to point to the Creator and designed to bring glory to God the Father, Son, and Spirit.

      How do you see creation bringing glory to God? What aspects of creation call you to worship Him?

      What steps will you take this week to share with others how God’s creation brings glory to Him? List a few in your journal.

      VERY GOOD

      Read Genesis 1:1–31 in your Bible. As you learned last week, creation didn’t happen independently of Jesus. As a member of the Trinity, Jesus was active and involved in creation. Read these verses with that in mind.

      God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.—Genesis 1:31

      Reread verses 1–31 carefully, then list what God created on each day:

      Day 1 _______________________________________________

      Day 2 _______________________________________________

      Day 3 _______________________________________________

      Day 4 _______________________________________________

      Day 5 _______________________________________________

      Day 6 _______________________________________________

      Think through these questions:

      Highlight the places in Genesis 1 where God said His creation was good or very good. How many times did He say this?

      In Scripture, repetition is often used to indicate importance. Knowing that, what does the repetition of the phrase it was good teach you about creation? Explain.

      Why is it important for us to realize that God considers His creation good?

      Does your opinion about creation’s goodness match God’s? Why or why not?

      RESPOND

      Everything God created was useful, full of purpose, and created to bring joy. In a word, it was good. Our triune God created a world in perfect harmony—with no chaos or anything in rebellion with its Creator. While our world is fallen today, we can still see glimpses of that goodness. Praise God for the specific ways you see His goodness in creation. Record your praise in your journal.

      FOR YOUR ENJOYMENT

      Read Genesis 2:4–14 in your Bible. As you read, pay attention to all of the ways God lavishly met humanity’s needs.

      Ask yourself:

      Why is it important that God abundantly provided for all of Adam and Eve’s physical needs through His creation? Journal your answer.

      Food, water, companionship, beauty, purpose—God met all of humanity’s needs in His creation. He created the ideal setting for humanity to know Him and be fully known.

      Now, read 1 Timothy 4:4 in your Bible. Underline what it teaches you about creation.

      For everything created by God is good.—1 Timothy 4:4

      RESPOND

      What did these passages teach you about creation? Journal in your own words.

      Today, make an effort to notice ways God’s creation meets your needs or brings you enjoyment. Praise God for His detailed provision for you. Journal your praises.

      FOR HIS GLORY

      Consider the list below, thinking about people you know. What would they say their purpose in life is? Circle all that apply.

      To live, then die

      To make money

      To honor God

      To make family proud

      To be important

      To help others

      To work hard

      To become famous

      Thankfully, God’s Word is very clear about our purpose. Read Romans 11:34–36 in your Bible. Underline what it reveals about purpose.

      For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen.—Romans 11:36

      Think through these questions:

      What does it mean to say that everything comes from God and exists by His power? Explain.

      According to this passage, for what does God intend everything? What does that mean for your life?

      Reread verses 34–35. When have you assumed you knew God’s thoughts or even that you knew better than Him?

      How did you discover you were wrong? What did you learn from that experience?

      RESPOND

      Personalize Romans 11:36, replacing the word everything with your name. Pray this verse back to God as affirmation that you were created to bring Him glory.

      If you were created to bring glory to God, then all parts of your life should be united in that purpose. What parts of your life are not lining up with God’s intention for you? What steps will you take today to change that? Write two steps in your journal.

      NO EXCUSE

      In yesterday’s devotion, you focused on your purpose. Today, we’ll delve into Scripture to discover the purpose of creation. Read Romans 1:18–23 in your Bible with that in mind.

      For His invisible attributes, that is, His eternal power and divine nature, have been clearly seen since the creation of the world, being understood through what He has made. As a result, people are without excuse.—Romans 1:20

      Paul’s argument in this passage is that those who reject God will face His wrath because He has already provided sufficient evidence of His existence and power.

      Ask yourself:

      According to these verses, how has God proven His existence? Explain.

      What does that teach you about the purpose of creation? Journal in your own words.

      How has creation made our triune God’s eternal power and divine nature apparent to you? Explain.

      Why do you think we so often miss the evidence of God in creation?

      RESPOND

      Creation provides so much evidence of God that those who reject the Creator will face the eternal responsibility of that choice: God’s wrath. God has revealed Himself to us through His work, His Word, and, most clearly, through His Son. Jesus is the only way of salvation God has provided and rejecting Him means facing God’s wrath. Place your faith in Jesus today!

      As believers, we sometimes allow sin into our lives, which disrupts our relationship with God and takes our focus off of Him, His work, and His goodness. Examine this downward spiral in Romans 11:21–22. Where do you see that spiral in your life? What steps will you take today to turn your focus back to Christ? Record two steps in your journal.

      In today’s passage, Paul wrote that the people had exchanged the truth of God for a lie. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal any lies you are allowing to rule your life. Pray that God would point you to the truth in His Word.

      HELPLESS

      It’s clear from this week’s devotions that everything—including you—was created to bring God glory. But when we see the depth of our sinfulness, it’s easy for us to wonder how God could ever use us for His glory. We are a people in need of salvation from our sin. But how? Read Isaiah 43:5–13 to learn more.

      I, I am Yahweh, and there is no other Savior but Me.—Isaiah 43:11

      In verses 6–7, God promises an ultimate, final restoration to those who truly believe and are called by His name. This is not a promise that all people will experience, but only God’s sons and daughters, those with whom He has a personal relationship.

      Now, focus on verses 10–13 and thoughtfully answer the questions that follow:

      In this passage, God revealed aspects of His nature. He is Creator, Savior, the only God. Why are each of these facets of His character important? Explain.

      Consider verse 12. Underline all of the action words in this verse, then circle the word that indicates who is doing the action. According to this verse, who makes salvation possible?

      When did you first realize that salvation isn’t about being good, doing good works, or your own merit, but rather about trusting what God has already done through Jesus? Jot down a few thoughts.

      RESPOND

      God is the One who saves, and we are helpless to save ourselves. We don’t have to work or strive for salvation, but we do have to respond and receive it in faith. We were created to bring God glory, but we cannot fulfill that purpose if we do not have a relationship with Him through Jesus.

      Because God is the Savior, He has made a way for us to be saved and experience the ultimate restoration discussed in this passage. If you have never placed your faith for salvation in Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, don’t let the opportunity pass you by today.

      If you have already received God’s gift of forgiveness and salvation, praise and thank Him for doing for you what you could never do for yourself.

      MARK OF THE CREATOR

      Creation testifies of the Creator. As Christians, the goodness of God’s creation should inspire our praise and worship. Read Psalm 19:1–14 in your Bible to see how David’s contemplation of God’s creation gave way to worship.

      The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky proclaims the work of His hands.—Psalm 19:1

      Dig deeper with these questions:

      Ponder verses 1–6. What word pictures did David use to stress that creation points to God, our powerful Creator? Explain.

      What word picture or metaphor would you have used? Why?

      Consider verses 7–11. David realized that God’s glory isn’t only revealed in the beauty of His creation, but also in His Word. What statements did David make about God’s law (instruction, precepts, or commandments)? What do these statements teach you about the value of God’s instructions?

      Do you value God’s instructions? Why or why not?

      RESPOND

      Write your own psalm of praise to God, following David’s method of first recognizing the goodness of God through His creation, then responding in worship. Journal your psalm.

      As an extra challenge, memorize Psalm 19:1. Pray the verse back to God as your worshipful response each time you get a glimpse of God’s excellency in creation.

      For further study of how God’s creation declares His glory and inspires us to worship Him, read Psalm 8:1 and Psalm 50:6.

      RESPONSIBLE RULERS

      In this week’s devotions, you’ve learned a lot about our Three-in-One Creator and His creation. Answer these questions:

      What is the purpose of God’s creation?

      How does God feel about His creation?

      What’s your responsibility to the earth God created? Explain.

      Now, read Genesis 1:28–31 in your Bible, then answer the questions that follow.

      God blessed them, and God said to them, Be fruitful, multiply, fill the earth, and subdue it. Rule the fish of the sea, the birds of the sky, and every creature that crawls on the earth.—Genesis 1:28

      Ask yourself:

      According to this passage, what is humanity’s role in creation? Explain it in your own words.

      What is significant about humanity being placed as rulers over His creation?

      The word rule in verse 28 does not imply exploitation or treating the earth and the resources God has provided flippantly. This is a call to care and nurture the natural resources God has provided. Knowing this, what are some ways Christians can be good stewards of God’s creation? List a few in your journal.

      RESPOND

      Your stewardship of God’s creation reflects your relationship with Him. Evaluate your life and attitude toward the resources God has provided. What does this reveal about your relationship with God? Confess any sinful attitudes the Holy Spirit reveals.

      Look over the list of stewardship ideas you created earlier. Circle three you’ll put into action in your life this week.

      For further study about the importance of God’s creation, read Romans 8:18–23.

      IN HIS LIKENESS

      Read Genesis 1:26–27 in your Bible.

      Underline every instance of the words image and likeness.

      Draw a triangle around every use of God’s name.

      Sketch a square around every reference to humanity.

      What do these symbols tell you about the emphasis of this passage?

      So God created man in His own image; He created him in the image of God; He created them male and female.—Genesis 1:27

      While we can’t derive the entire concept of the Trinity from the use of plural pronouns, we can surmise that this usage reflects the plurality of the Godhead, stressing the involvement of the Father, Son, and Spirit in creation.

      These verses state that men and women are made in God’s image. This means that humanity reflects God in some manner, including our ability to reason and to exercise authority over creation.

      Ask yourself:

      Why is it important that God created humanity in His image? What does it help you to understand about the kind of relationship God created us to have with Him?

      Read 2 Corinthians 4:4 and Hebrews 1:3 in your Bible. We reflect God’s image, but Jesus is the image of God and the exact expression of His nature. What does that tell you about Jesus’ importance?

      RESPOND

      Children inherit the likeness of their parents: physical attributes, personality traits, even similar talents or skills. Think about what you know about character. How do you see His likeness in you? Record your response in your journal.

      God created us to know Him. Because of our sin, the intimate relationship He desires to have with us is impossible without Jesus’ sacrifice.

      WITH PURPOSE

      It might surprise you to know that when God created Adam and placed him in the garden, Adam didn’t just lounge around. Instead, God gave him a job to do. Read Genesis 2:7–15 in your Bible to find out what it was. Underline it when you read it.

      The Lord God took the man and placed him in the garden of Eden to work it and watch over it.—Genesis 2:15

      Thoughtfully answer these questions:

      What does the fact that God gave Adam a job tell you about God’s design for work in our lives? Explain.

      Review what you’ve learned so far about your purpose. God created humanity for His glory, to have a relationship with Him, and to live a purposeful, meaningful life that included work. Does this fit with society’s view of humanity’s purpose? Why or why not?

      In a fallen, sinful world, it’s easy to think that our lives have no meaning. As Christians, it’s tempting to consider this life as something we just have to get through until we get to spend eternity with Jesus. But God’s intent for our lives, shown in today’s passage, and in Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:33 tell us otherwise.

      Read Matthew 6:33 in your Bible.

      Ask yourself:

      What did Jesus have to say about the purpose of our lives? Journal in your own words.

      RESPOND

      Nothing that God created is meaningless. As believers, our lives should be focused on growing in our relationship with Him and building His kingdom on earth.

      Think about your family, school, community, teams, clubs, and your group of friends. Where has God placed you? How can you live focused on His purpose in those circumstances? List your ideas in your journal. Circle two you’ll put into practice this week.

      Are there situations in your life that feel pointless or you wonder how God could ever use them for His glory? Be honest with God about those circumstances today. Ask Him to open your eyes to how He is at work.

      NEW KIND OF RELATIONSHIP

      Read Genesis 2:18–25 in your Bible. At this point in the creation account, God said that something wasn’t good for the first time. Look for it as you read.

      Then the Lord God said, It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper as his complement.—Genesis 2:18

      Thoughtfully answer these questions:

      What did God say wasn’t good? What does this teach you about the need for fellowship in our lives? Explain.

      God has created us for relationship—with Him and with others. How did God act to fulfill that need in Adam’s life in today’s Scripture passage?

      According to God’s own words in verse 18, we were not created to live in isolation. Community is God’s creation and also a reflection of His character, since He is a triune God. How has God acted to fulfill the need for community in your life? Explain.

      RESPOND

      Evaluate your life. Are you trying to live in isolation, fueled by a false belief that you don’t need relationships or a desire to protect yourself from getting hurt? Admit this to God. Ask Him to open your eyes to deep friendships that will bring you closer to Him.

      Look at the list you created earlier. Praise God for the family members and friends He has placed in your life. Pray for Christian family members and friends, thanking God for how they help you grow in your relationship with Him. Pray that God will soften the hearts of those who aren’t Christians.

      For further study of what it means to live in Christian community, read Matthew 18:20, Galatians 6:2, and 1 Thessalonians 4:18 and 5:14.

      DESIGNED FOR THIS

      God created us to know Him, enjoy Him, and bring glory to Him. But because our sin separates us from Him, God made a way for us to have a personal relationship with Him. Read John 17:1–3 in your Bible, then flip over to 1 John 5:11–12 and read it carefully. As you read both passages, circle every instance of the word life. Underline each reference to Son or Jesus.

      This is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and the One You have sent—Jesus Christ.—John 17:3

      And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. The one who has the Son has life. The one who doesn’t have the Son of God does not have life.—1 John 5:11–12

      Ask yourself:

      Consider the words you circled and underlined in both passages. Based on your findings, how we can have a relationship with God? Explain it in your own words.

      The word translated know in John 17:3 implies a continuing personal experience with God. What is the difference between knowing about God and actually having

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