Kids Bible Devotional for October 3, 2024
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Focus Verse
Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you. (KJV)
Jump Start
“I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life. I am an American soldier."
The declarations I just read are part of the U. S. Army’s Soldier’s Creed. They represent the values of that military branch; values that are accepted by every enlistee in the U. S. Army.
Such allegiances to higher principles are also something we find in the Bible. In ancient times, guards known as watchmen were responsible for the safety and protection of towns and military installations from enemy attacks. They were stationed on high walls and towers, and their job was to warn townspeople of potential threats.
In the Old Testament, prophets were deemed Israel’s spiritual watchmen. Prophets could be held accountable for people’s sins if they failed to warn others as God commanded. This role fell largely to church leaders in the New Testament, as they do today. Spiritual leaders have a responsibility to protect the flock with which they have been charged and to safeguard them from spirits and mindsets that could destroy their walk with God.
Today's Devotion
“I remember the announcement in service last Sunday that this is Pastor Appreciation Month,” Michelle told her mother. “Do you think Sister Jones will let us write letters to the Pastor during Sunday school class?”
“That’s a great idea, Michelle. And I don’t see why not,” her mother said. “You should ask her when you see her in church. Maybe afterwards, you and I can collect them all and make a scrapbook.”
Michelle’s dad walked into the living room with a glass of iced tea and dropped in his recliner. “What are you young ladies talking about?”
“We’re planning something nice for Reverend Drummond for Pastor’s Appreciation,” Michelle replied.
“That’s right. Pastor Appreciation is just around the corner. Pastor and his staff do such a great job as watchers of our souls. We should do something special for them.”
“Watchers of our souls?” Michelle asked. “What does that mean?”
“Watchers were people placed at high locations like towers or city walls. They kept a lookout around the clock for enemy spies and possible attacks. If they saw trouble, they raised the alarm so the townspeople could react. Pastors are like that, but as it relates to our spiritual walk with God.”
“That makes sense,” Michelle said. “We’re talking about writing letters and making a scrapbook.”
“Eloise talked to me about doing lunch for the pastoral staff after service one Sunday morning,” Mom said. “I could use some help setting up.”
“I’d be glad to help. And those are all good ideas. But you know what Pastor and his staff need more than anything?”
“What’s that, Dad?”
“They need our prayers. After family devotion tonight, let’s pray for the ministers’ team. Even watchers need someone looking out for them.”
Wrap Up
Isaiah 62:6 reads, “I have set watchmen on your walls, O Jerusalem; They shall never hold their peace day or night.” This is the role of a pastor. Day or night, they must be ready to minister to the spiritual – and sometimes physical and emotional – needs of their congregation. Many unrecognized hours are spent servicing the flock that God has put under their charge.
Your pastor and his ministerial team carry a great responsibility. They need wisdom and strength from God to do their jobs well. They need rest and respect. They need our prayers.
Will you pray for your Pastor, his or her family, and his or her ministerial team?
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