Among the spiritual gifts mentioned in the sermon is the gift of helps—a vital yet often undervalued role within the church. Those with the gift of helps are individuals driven by a desire to assist without seeking recognition. They see what needs to be done and act accordingly. Their contributions may not be glamorous but are foundational to various church operations. Reflect on Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:40, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." Serving behind the scenes is just as critical as more visible roles and reflects the servant heart of Christ. Examine ways you can utilize your abilities to support your church. Remember that every role, visible or not, is significant in God’s eyes and is a chance to serve Christ by serving His people. Celebrate the unsung heroes in your church and seek ways to encourage and assist them in their service.

Evangelists carry the unique gift of bringing the Good News to the world. As defined, it's not confined to large preaching events; it can be as simple as sharing hope in everyday conversations. Consider Philip the Evangelist, as portrayed in Acts, who exemplified evangelistic outreach simply by meeting people where they were—whether that was a chariot or a crowded city square. Evangelists are essentially messengers of God’s promise of salvation and hope. Have you been given opportunities to share the gospel with others. Are there colleagues, family members, or acquaintances who need encouragement or hope? Every Christian can be an evangelist by living out their faith and engaging others with the message of Christ’s love and redemption.

When we study the role of Pastors and shepherds, we take cues from scriptural passages like Psalm 23 and Jeremiah 3:15, which highlight the pastor’s responsibilities. Some of those are; providing spiritual nourishment, comfort, guidance, and protection to their congregations. Pastors are called to be reflections of Jesus, "the Good Shepherd." They are tasked with teaching and leading the flock, helping with spiritual and emotional needs, and sometimes physical needs. It's a role that requires dedication and constant reliance on God for wisdom and strength. Despite their significant duties, Pastors are not called to do everything themselves. Congregations should support their Pastors through prayer, practical support, and by taking up their own roles within the church. Reflect on how you can support your pastor and church leaders today. Is there a way you can lighten their load or offer words of encouragement? Your prayers, understanding, and support can profoundly impact their ability to lead effectively.

Here we are at the final devotion this week, which will be based out of Exodus 20:12. This verse and commandment is to honor one's father and mother. Honoring parents is not just a command for children but a relevant lesson for adults too. Your relationship with your parents models for your children how they should interact with theirs. Therefore, it's critical to maintain an attitude of honor even in adult relationships. Honor is about acknowledging the sacrifices made and cherishing the support received over the years. There is a blessing tied to honoring parents—a long and prosperous life. For adults, it means valuing advice, considering their wisdom, and keeping family bonds strong. For children, it means respect and obedience. We all can begin today by thinking about how we can better honor our parents if they are alive, and if not, still honoring their memory.

Here we are at the end of the work week, and again I'd like to speak of another important aspect of dealing with children....Discipline! Proverbs 13:24 and 29:15 highlight a fundamental principle regarding the balance of discipline in a child's upbringing. This balance involves guiding them with love while also implementing necessary boundaries. A home without discipline can lead to confusion and lack of guidance in children. But equally, a home without love creates resentment and possible bitterness. As the Apostle Paul says in Eph. 6:4 and Col. 3:21 discipline should never provoke anger but should be administered in love with the aim of teaching valuable life lessons. When God tasks us with disciplining children, He emphasizes the need for correction without harshness. Interpret discipline as a form of teaching, acting as an opportunity to sow wisdom rather than fear. Find moments to instruct them about responsibility, empathy, and humility. Protect and nurture them with love, always guiding, always loving. If you are a parent or grandparent, consider the way discipline is delivered in your homes. Is it aligning with God’s love? Aim to teach children under your care; understanding, respect, and nurturing, enriching the spirit of your children.

I pray everyone is having a great Thursday. In Deuteronomy 6:5-7, we are reminded that children learn from observing the very life we lead. Our faith should not be an act of speech alone but expressed through our daily actions. Children are quick to pick up cues and habits from those they look up to. Therefore, modeling faith through genuine acts of kindness, forgiveness, love, patience, and integrity becomes the most important things we can instill in a child. When you model consistent behavior that reflects your faith, children learn godly conduct, the importance of kindness, and a spirit of humility grounded in God’s love. Children will surely come back to these godly attributes when dealing with their challenges. Embrace this teaching opportunity: live your faith openly. Whether you find joy, trials, successes, or failures, model a life fully reliant and thankful to God. Let your life be a testament to your faith, reflecting God's glory in your interactions, and guiding your children towards the spiritual path through implicit example. Through your daily life, instill in your children a faithful legacy that will stand the test of time.

Well, here it is Wednesday, the middle of the week. I trust that you've been praying for the children in your life. Today I want to talk about the need of praying for our children's future. Deuteronomy 6:5-7 tell us about the importance of instilling godliness in the lives of the children around us, especially as parents. So, consider the depth of your prayers for not just your children or grandchildren but for their entire future, including their future marriages and life decisions. Our prayers should extend beyond temporal concerns into future promises, seeking divine guidance for their choices and protection over their lives. By praying with purpose, you're not just safeguarding the present but investing in their future. Remember, God has a plan for each child, and praying is like preparing the fertile soil in which they can grow into the men and women God desires them to be. Not only is fervent prayer necessary, but teaching them godly values must be a priority. Demonstrating Godly character in everyday situations is important. As you walk alongside them in their faith journey, illustrate the principles of faith not just with words but through your consistent living testimony.

Thanks Lord for another Tuesday. Today we want to look at the idea presented in Psalms 127:3 and Proverbs 17:6 that describe children as a heritage of the Lord and a crown of old men. This text symbolizes the achievement and enrichment that children bring into our lives. Children are described as gifts, symbols of glory, and cherished rewards that God provides. A 'heritage' embodies something incredibly valuable, meant to be treasured and carefully passed from generation to generation. Just like many other valuables in our possession, children must be protected and nurtured. The image of children as a 'crown' implies that they represent the family success and bring much honor. This understanding challenges us to deeply value the relationships and interactions we have with our children. They’re our legacy; the means through which our values, beliefs, and traditions will go on into future generations. As you contemplate the children in your life - whether they are your own or ones you love - embrace them as God’s heritage to you. Treat them with the value they scripturally hold. Today, and for the rest of this week, as God to help you pray, guide, and support these youthful lives, ensuring their paths are aligned with God’s Word.