{"version":1,"generated":"2026-10-16","note":"Original content by GospelShelf. Scripture: KJV (public domain). Backbone: Small Catechism, Table of Duties.","callings":{"husband":{"name":"Husband","table_of_duties":"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it."},"wife":{"name":"Wife","table_of_duties":"Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord."},"parent":{"name":"Parent","table_of_duties":"Ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord."},"grandparent":{"name":"Grandparent","table_of_duties":"The aged women likewise… that they may teach the young women to love their husbands, to love their children."},"child":{"name":"Son / Daughter","table_of_duties":"Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother."},"single":{"name":"Single","table_of_duties":"He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord."},"student":{"name":"Student","table_of_duties":"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed."},"worker":{"name":"Worker / Coworker","table_of_duties":"Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters… with good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men."},"neighbor":{"name":"Neighbor / Friend","table_of_duties":"Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."},"caregiver":{"name":"Caregiver","table_of_duties":"Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."}},"days":[{"day":1,"reading":{"ref":"Genesis 1:1","kjv":"In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.","note":"God made all things, and He made you. Every calling begins with the Creator who gives it."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Ephesians 5:25","kjv":"Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave himself for it;","text":"Christ's love for His Church is the pattern for your marriage: He gave Himself. You will fall short of that love, and in Christ you are forgiven. Then you are freed to give yourself again today.","try":"Ask your wife one specific way you can carry a load for her today, and do it.","share":"Pray aloud with your wife tonight, even one sentence. Faith spoken at home becomes faith learned at home.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Ephesians 5:22","kjv":"Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord.","text":"Paul speaks to wives with honor, calling them to support their husbands “as unto the Lord.” That is service rendered to Christ Himself. Where you fall short, and where he does, Christ's forgiveness covers you both.","try":"Encourage your husband in one decision he is carrying.","share":"Speak well of your husband to your children.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"parent":{"ref":"Deuteronomy 6:7","kjv":"And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.","text":"God gives parents the first school of faith: talk of His Word at home, on the road, at bedtime. You don't have to be an expert; you have to be present with the Word.","try":"Ask one faith question in the car today.","share":"Share a car-ride question with another parent.","book":"luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids","book_title":"Luther's Small Catechism for Kids","book_url":"/b/luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 145:4","kjv":"One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.","text":"One generation shall praise thy works to another. Your stories of God's faithfulness are a gift no one else can give.","try":"Tell a grandchild one way God helped you.","share":"Write the story down for the family.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"child":{"ref":"Ephesians 6:1-2","kjv":"Children, obey your parents in the Lord: for this is right. Honour thy father and mother; (which is the first commandment with promise;)","text":"God calls children to obey and honor their parents. It's the first commandment with a promise. When you fail, Jesus, who honored His Father perfectly, forgives you.","try":"Do one thing your parents ask, right away.","share":"Tell a friend why you honor your parents.","book":"luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids","book_title":"Luther's Small Catechism for Kids","book_url":"/b/luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids.html"},"single":{"ref":"1 Corinthians 7:32","kjv":"But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord:","text":"Paul calls singleness a gift that frees you to care for the things of the Lord. Your life is not on hold; it is a calling now.","try":"Serve in one ministry this week.","share":"Invite a friend to serve with you.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"2 Timothy 2:15","kjv":"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.","text":"Study is a calling from God. Learn well, not to earn God's love, which is already yours in Christ, but to serve your neighbor.","try":"Start homework with a short prayer.","share":"Pray for a classmate who struggles.","book":"law-and-gospel-how-to-read-and-apply-the-bible-c-f-w-walther","book_title":"Law and Gospel: How to Read and Apply the Bible","book_url":"/b/law-and-gospel-how-to-read-and-apply-the-bible-c-f-w-walther.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Colossians 3:23-24","kjv":"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.","text":"Your daily work is a calling. God serves your neighbor through it: food, safety, care, order. You don't work to earn heaven; Christ gave that freely. You work because your neighbor needs you.","try":"Thank God for the people your work serves.","share":"Tell a coworker you appreciate their work.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Luke 10:36-37","kjv":"Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves? And he said, He that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and do thou likewise.","text":"The Good Samaritan showed mercy. Jesus is the true Samaritan who found you half-dead in sin and carried you. Now He sends you to the neighbor in front of you.","try":"Help one neighbor in a practical way.","share":"When they ask why, tell them Jesus helped you first.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Galatians 6:2","kjv":"Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.","text":"Caregiving fulfills the law of Christ: bearing burdens. You will grow weary and sometimes impatient. Christ bore your burdens on the cross and carries you now.","try":"Take ten minutes to rest without guilt.","share":"Let a friend help you; receiving is a witness too.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"}}},{"day":2,"reading":{"ref":"Psalm 1:2","kjv":"But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.","note":"Blessed is the one whose delight is in God's Word. The Spirit works through this Word, so start the day here."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"1 Peter 3:7","kjv":"Likewise, ye husbands, dwell with them according to knowledge, giving honour unto the wife, as unto the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life; that your prayers be not hindered.","text":"Peter calls husbands to live with their wives with understanding, as fellow heirs of the grace of life. She is not your project but your fellow heir. Your prayers are bound up with how you treat her.","try":"Listen for ten minutes without fixing anything.","share":"Tell a friend what you are thankful for in your wife; honoring her in public is a witness.","book":"unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields","book_title":"Unity in Marriage","book_url":"/book.html?id=unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields"},"wife":{"ref":"Proverbs 31:10","kjv":"Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.","text":"A virtuous woman is worth far more than rubies. Your worth is not earned by doing it all; God has already declared you His in Baptism.","try":"Let go of one task that is driven by guilt rather than love.","share":"Encourage another wife who feels she must be perfect.","book":"cherished-gifts-katie-martin","book_title":"Cherished gifts","book_url":"/book.html?id=cherished-gifts-katie-martin"},"parent":{"ref":"Ephesians 6:4","kjv":"And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.","text":"Do not provoke your children to anger; bring them up in the Lord's nurture. Discipline points to Christ's forgiveness, not just to rules.","try":"After correcting a child, speak forgiveness: “Jesus forgives you, and so do I.”","share":"Teach other parents the power of spoken absolution at home.","book":"little-visits-with-jesus-mary-manz-simon","book_title":"Little visits with Jesus","book_url":"/b/little-visits-with-jesus-mary-manz-simon.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"2 Timothy 1:5","kjv":"When I call to remembrance the unfeigned faith that is in thee, which dwelt first in thy grandmother Lois, and thy mother Eunice; and I am persuaded that in thee also.","text":"Timothy's faith first dwelt in grandmother Lois. Grandparents plant seeds that bloom for generations.","try":"Pray for each grandchild by name.","share":"Send a grandchild a Bible verse card.","book":"out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf","book_title":"Out of the depths","book_url":"/book.html?id=out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf"},"child":{"ref":"Exodus 20:12","kjv":"Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.","text":"Honour thy father and thy mother. Honor isn't just for good days; it's a gift you give.","try":"Thank your mom or dad for something specific.","share":"Encourage a friend to thank their parents.","book":"god-makes-me-his-child-in-baptism-janet-wittenback","book_title":"God Makes Me His Child in Baptism","book_url":"/b/god-makes-me-his-child-in-baptism-janet-wittenback.html"},"single":{"ref":"Psalm 68:6","kjv":"God setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land.","text":"God sets the solitary in families. The Church is your family.","try":"Sit with a family at church.","share":"Invite another single to lunch after church.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"student":{"ref":"Proverbs 1:7","kjv":"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.","text":"The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Read a Proverb before class.","share":"Share it with a friend.","book":"the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz","book_title":"The Hammer of God","book_url":"/b/the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Ephesians 6:7","kjv":"With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:","text":"With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Do your least favorite task with good will.","share":"Help a coworker without being asked.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Matthew 22:39","kjv":"And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.","text":"Love thy neighbour as thyself. The Law shows how often we fail; Christ forgives and sends us again.","try":"Learn a neighbor's name.","share":"Pray for them by name.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Matthew 11:28","kjv":"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.","text":"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Bring your exhaustion to Jesus in prayer.","share":"Share this verse with another caregiver.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"}}},{"day":3,"reading":{"ref":"Isaiah 55:11","kjv":"So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.","note":"God's Word never comes back empty. What He says, He does, including His word of forgiveness for you."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Colossians 3:19","kjv":"Husbands, love your wives, and be not bitter against them.","text":"“Be not bitter against them.” Bitterness grows quietly. Confess it to God and receive His forgiveness, and it loses its grip.","try":"Name one resentment and give it to God in prayer.","share":"Let your children see you apologize to their mother. They learn repentance by watching.","book":"blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann","book_title":"Blessed is the man","book_url":"/book.html?id=blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann"},"wife":{"ref":"Titus 2:4-5","kjv":"That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, To be discreet, chaste, keepers at home, good, obedient to their own husbands, that the word of God be not blasphemed.","text":"Older women teach younger women to love their husbands and children. You are part of a chain of faithful women.","try":"Thank a woman who has mentored you.","share":"Offer to pray with a younger wife.","book":"soul-spa-sharla-fritz","book_title":"Soul spa","book_url":"/book.html?id=soul-spa-sharla-fritz"},"parent":{"ref":"Proverbs 22:6","kjv":"Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.","text":"Train up a child in the way he should go. Small, daily habits of prayer and Word shape a lifetime.","try":"Pray with your child at bedtime.","share":"Give a children's Bible to a family you know.","book":"the-baptism-of-your-child-thomas-e-fast","book_title":"The baptism of your child","book_url":"/b/the-baptism-of-your-child-thomas-e-fast.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Proverbs 17:6","kjv":"Children’s children are the crown of old men; and the glory of children are their fathers.","text":"Children's children are the crown of old men. They are your joy and your mission field.","try":"Call a grandchild just to listen.","share":"Ask about their week and pray with them.","book":"every-day-is-saturday-l-james-harvey","book_title":"Every day is Saturday","book_url":"/book.html?id=every-day-is-saturday-l-james-harvey"},"child":{"ref":"Colossians 3:20","kjv":"Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.","text":"Obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Do a chore without being asked.","share":"Help a sibling with theirs.","book":"portals-of-prayer-for-kids-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"Portals of Prayer for Kids","book_url":"/b/portals-of-prayer-for-kids-concordia-publishing-house.html"},"single":{"ref":"Isaiah 54:5","kjv":"For thy Maker is thine husband; the Lord of hosts is his name; and thy Redeemer the Holy One of Israel; The God of the whole earth shall he be called.","text":"Thy Maker is thine husband. Christ is the Bridegroom of every believer.","try":"Read Isaiah 54 slowly.","share":"Share it with a lonely friend.","book":"the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz","book_title":"The Hammer of God","book_url":"/b/the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz.html"},"student":{"ref":"Colossians 3:23","kjv":"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;","text":"Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Give full effort on one assignment.","share":"Help a classmate study.","book":"concordia-the-lutheran-confessions-paul-timothy-mccain-ed","book_title":"Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions","book_url":"/b/concordia-the-lutheran-confessions-paul-timothy-mccain-ed.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Genesis 2:15","kjv":"And the Lord God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it.","text":"God put Adam in the garden to work it. Work was good before the fall.","try":"Find one good thing in your work.","share":"Share it with your family at dinner.","book":"christian-ethics-in-the-workplace-raymond-l-hilgert","book_title":"Christian ethics in the workplace","book_url":"/book.html?id=christian-ethics-in-the-workplace-raymond-l-hilgert"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Romans 13:10","kjv":"Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.","text":"Love worketh no ill to his neighbour. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Speak well of a neighbor.","share":"Defend someone's reputation (Eighth Commandment).","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Isaiah 46:4","kjv":"And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.","text":"Even to hoar hairs will I carry you. God carries both you and the one you care for.","try":"Pray Isaiah 46:4 over your loved one.","share":"Read it aloud to them.","book":"coping-with-compassion-fatigue-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"Coping with compassion fatigue","book_url":"/b/coping-with-compassion-fatigue-concordia-publishing-house.html"}}},{"day":4,"reading":{"ref":"Romans 10:17","kjv":"So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.","note":"Faith comes by hearing the Word of Christ. The Holy Spirit creates and keeps faith through it."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Genesis 2:24","kjv":"Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.","text":"God joined you two into one flesh. That union is His work, not just your agreement. Guard it as a gift.","try":"Put your phone away for dinner and give her your full attention.","share":"When coworkers joke about marriage, speak well of yours.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"wife":{"ref":"1 Peter 3:4","kjv":"But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.","text":"The hidden person of the heart, a meek and quiet spirit, is precious to God. This is the Spirit's fruit, not a personality test.","try":"Pause and pray before responding when stressed.","share":"Share 1 Peter 3:4 with a friend who feels unseen.","book":"quenched-donna-pyle","book_title":"Quenched","book_url":"/book.html?id=quenched-donna-pyle"},"parent":{"ref":"Mark 10:14","kjv":"But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God.","text":"Jesus said, “Suffer the little children to come unto me.” He brings them to Himself in Baptism and His Word.","try":"Remind your child of his or her baptism birthday.","share":"Celebrate baptism birthdays with a candle.","book":"faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka","book_title":"Faithfully Parenting Teens","book_url":"/b/faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 71:18","kjv":"Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation, and thy power to every one that is to come.","text":"Now also when I am old, O God, forsake me not; until I have shewed thy strength unto this generation. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Share a hymn you love with a grandchild.","share":"Sing it together at the next visit.","book":"little-visits-with-god-allan-hart-jahsmann","book_title":"Little visits with God","book_url":"/book.html?id=little-visits-with-god-allan-hart-jahsmann"},"child":{"ref":"Luke 2:51","kjv":"And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.","text":"Jesus was subject to His parents. The Son of God obeyed for you.","try":"Remember: Jesus obeyed in your place.","share":"Share Luke 2:51 with a younger sibling.","book":"things-i-see-at-baptism-julie-stiegemeyer","book_title":"Things I See at Baptism","book_url":"/b/things-i-see-at-baptism-julie-stiegemeyer.html"},"single":{"ref":"Matthew 6:33","kjv":"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.","text":"Seek ye first the kingdom of God. Desires for marriage are good; Christ comes first.","try":"Pray honestly about your desires.","share":"Pray for a friend who is waiting.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"Daniel 1:17","kjv":"As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.","text":"God gave Daniel and his friends knowledge and skill. Learning is God's gift.","try":"Thank God for your mind.","share":"Encourage a friend who feels dumb.","book":"lutheran-bible-companion-edward-engelbrecht","book_title":"Lutheran Bible companion","book_url":"/b/lutheran-bible-companion-edward-engelbrecht.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Proverbs 22:29","kjv":"Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.","text":"Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings.","try":"Do one task with excellence.","share":"Mentor a newer coworker.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Proverbs 17:17","kjv":"A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.","text":"A friend loveth at all times. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Call a friend who is struggling.","share":"Pray with them.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"2 Corinthians 1:3-4","kjv":"Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.","text":"The God of all comfort comforts us so we can comfort others. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Receive comfort from Scripture today.","share":"Comfort another caregiver.","book":"out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf","book_title":"Out of the depths","book_url":"/book.html?id=out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf"}}},{"day":5,"reading":{"ref":"Ephesians 2:8-9","kjv":"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.","note":"You are saved by grace through faith, and even that faith is God's gift. Nothing to boast about, everything to give thanks for."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Proverbs 31:28","kjv":"Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.","text":"Her husband praises her. Words of honor are part of your calling. Silence is not neutral.","try":"Write her a short note of thanks for something she did this week.","share":"Bless your wife in front of guests at your table.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Proverbs 31:26","kjv":"She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.","text":"She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the law of kindness is on her tongue. Words build or tear down a home.","try":"Speak one word of kindness to each family member.","share":"Teach your daughters kind speech by using it.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"parent":{"ref":"Psalm 127:3","kjv":"Lo, children are an heritage of the Lord: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.","text":"Children are a heritage of the Lord. They are gifts, not projects.","try":"Thank God for each child by name.","share":"Encourage a weary parent with Psalm 127:3.","book":"faithfully-parenting-preschoolers-john-r-bucka","book_title":"Faithfully parenting preschoolers","book_url":"/b/faithfully-parenting-preschoolers-john-r-bucka.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 92:14","kjv":"They shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing;","text":"They shall still bring forth fruit in old age. Your calling isn't over.","try":"Ask God how you can serve this week.","share":"Volunteer at church with a grandchild.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"},"child":{"ref":"Proverbs 1:8","kjv":"My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:","text":"Hear the instruction of thy father. Listening is honor.","try":"Listen without arguing once today.","share":"Ask your parents about their faith story.","book":"150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit","book_title":"150 Psalms for Teens","book_url":"/book.html?id=150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit"},"single":{"ref":"1 Corinthians 6:19-20","kjv":"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.","text":"Your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit; you were bought with a price. Christ forgives and restores.","try":"Set one clear boundary.","share":"Encourage a friend in purity.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"student":{"ref":"James 1:5","kjv":"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.","text":"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Ask for wisdom before a test.","share":"Pray for your teachers.","book":"150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit","book_title":"150 Psalms for Teens","book_url":"/book.html?id=150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit"},"worker":{"ref":"1 Thessalonians 4:11-12","kjv":"And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you; That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.","text":"Study to be quiet, do your own business, and work with your own hands. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Avoid gossip today.","share":"Speak well of a coworker.","book":"the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman","book_title":"The life you crave","book_url":"/book.html?id=the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman"},"neighbor":{"ref":"John 15:13","kjv":"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.","text":"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Christ did.","try":"Sacrifice time for a friend.","share":"Share why Jesus is your friend.","book":"the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman","book_title":"The life you crave","book_url":"/book.html?id=the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Matthew 25:36","kjv":"Naked, and ye clothed me: I was sick, and ye visited me: I was in prison, and ye came unto me.","text":"I was sick, and ye visited me. You serve Christ in the sick.","try":"See Christ in your loved one today.","share":"Visit someone else who is sick.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"}}},{"day":6,"reading":{"ref":"Romans 6:4","kjv":"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.","note":"In Baptism you were buried with Christ and raised to walk in newness of life. Your callings are lived from that font."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Ephesians 5:26","kjv":"That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,","text":"Christ washes His bride with water by the Word. Point your wife to her Baptism and to the Word, where Christ cleanses her too.","try":"Read a psalm together before bed.","share":"Invite another couple to church with you.","book":"marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz","book_title":"Marriage and family","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz"},"wife":{"ref":"Ephesians 5:33","kjv":"Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.","text":"Let the wife see that she reverence her husband. Respect is love he can hear.","try":"Thank him for a specific way he provides.","share":"Honor your husband in front of friends.","book":"godly-moms-45-two-to-three-minute-devotions-lenore-buth","book_title":"Godly Moms (45 two-to-three-minute devotions)","book_url":"/b/godly-moms-45-two-to-three-minute-devotions-lenore-buth.html"},"parent":{"ref":"2 Timothy 3:15","kjv":"And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.","text":"From a child Timothy knew the Scriptures that make wise unto salvation. Start early with the Word.","try":"Read one Bible story today.","share":"Recommend an Arch Book or story Bible.","book":"bible-make-do-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do","book_url":"/b/bible-make-do-gillian-chapman.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Deuteronomy 4:9","kjv":"Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons;","text":"Teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons. Faith passes through the family.","try":"Read a Bible story with a grandchild, by phone if needed.","share":"Recommend a story Bible to their parents.","book":"the-thankful-leper-cynthia-a-hinkle","book_title":"The thankful leper","book_url":"/b/the-thankful-leper-cynthia-a-hinkle.html"},"child":{"ref":"Proverbs 23:22","kjv":"Hearken unto thy father that begat thee, and despise not thy mother when she is old.","text":"Hearken unto thy father, and despise not thy mother when she is old. Honor lasts a lifetime.","try":"Call an older parent today.","share":"Visit a grandparent.","book":"bible-make-do-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do","book_url":"/b/bible-make-do-gillian-chapman.html"},"single":{"ref":"Psalm 16:11","kjv":"Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.","text":"In thy presence is fulness of joy. Joy doesn't depend on marital status.","try":"Name three joys in your life now.","share":"Share them with a friend.","book":"last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader","book_title":"Last summer at Eden","book_url":"/book.html?id=last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader"},"student":{"ref":"Romans 12:2","kjv":"And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.","text":"Be not conformed to this world. Think with God's Word.","try":"Compare a class idea with Scripture.","share":"Discuss it respectfully.","book":"reading-romans-with-luther-r-j-grunewald","book_title":"Reading Romans with Luther","book_url":"/book.html?id=reading-romans-with-luther-r-j-grunewald"},"worker":{"ref":"Colossians 4:1","kjv":"Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.","text":"Masters, give your servants that which is just and equal. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"If you lead, treat someone fairly and kindly.","share":"Encourage fairness at work.","book":"pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Pastoral care under the cross","book_url":"/book.html?id=pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Galatians 6:2","kjv":"Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.","text":"Bear ye one another's burdens. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Bring a meal to someone.","share":"Invite them to church.","book":"god-s-word-for-today-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"God's Word for Today","book_url":"/b/god-s-word-for-today-concordia-publishing-house.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Psalm 55:22","kjv":"Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.","text":"Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Name your burden and give it to God.","share":"Ask your church for prayer.","book":"family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher","book_title":"Family life series","book_url":"/b/family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher.html"}}},{"day":7,"reading":{"ref":"1 Corinthians 12:3","kjv":"Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost.","note":"No one can say “Jesus is Lord” except by the Holy Spirit. Your confession of Christ is His work in you."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Malachi 2:15","kjv":"And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.","text":"Take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth. Faithfulness begins in the heart and the eyes. Christ forgives and guards.","try":"Guard your eyes today; flee what tempts you.","share":"Encourage a younger husband to stay faithful, and pray for him.","book":"marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Marriage Is Like Dancing","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer"},"wife":{"ref":"Colossians 3:18","kjv":"Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.","text":"Submit as it is fit in the Lord. Your service to your husband is never apart from Christ.","try":"Pray for your husband's work by name.","share":"Ask other wives how you can pray for their husbands.","book":"unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields","book_title":"Unity in Marriage","book_url":"/book.html?id=unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields"},"parent":{"ref":"Colossians 3:21","kjv":"Fathers, provoke not your children to anger, lest they be discouraged.","text":"Fathers, provoke not your children, lest they be discouraged. Encourage more than you criticize.","try":"Speak three encouragements today.","share":"Encourage a neighbor's child by name.","book":"love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss","book_title":"Love, sex, and God","book_url":"/b/love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Isaiah 46:4","kjv":"And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you.","text":"Even to your old age I am he; I will carry you. God carries you still.","try":"Rest in that promise today.","share":"Share Isaiah 46:4 with a friend facing age.","book":"queen-who-saved-her-people-book-of-esther-for-children-carol-greene","book_title":"Queen Who Saved Her People: Book of Esther for children","book_url":"/b/queen-who-saved-her-people-book-of-esther-for-children-carol-greene.html"},"child":{"ref":"1 Timothy 5:4","kjv":"But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.","text":"Learn first to show piety at home, and to requite their parents. Care for aging parents is God's work.","try":"Help an aging parent with a task.","share":"Offer help to a friend caring for parents.","book":"love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss","book_title":"Love, sex, and God","book_url":"/b/love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss.html"},"single":{"ref":"Philippians 4:11","kjv":"Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.","text":"Contentment is learned in Christ. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Thank God for today's freedoms.","share":"Encourage another single to contentment.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"1 Peter 3:15","kjv":"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:","text":"Be ready to give an answer with meekness. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Learn one reason for the hope you have.","share":"Answer a friend's question gently.","book":"bible-bible","book_title":"Bible","book_url":"/b/bible-bible.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Ecclesiastes 9:10","kjv":"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.","text":"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Give full effort for one hour.","share":"Inspire your team by example.","book":"bible-make-do-book-four-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do, Book Four","book_url":"/book.html?id=bible-make-do-book-four-gillian-chapman"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Hebrews 13:2","kjv":"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.","text":"Be not forgetful to entertain strangers. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Welcome a new neighbor.","share":"Give them a church flyer.","book":"where-do-babies-come-from-ruth-s-hummel","book_title":"Where do babies come from?","book_url":"/b/where-do-babies-come-from-ruth-s-hummel.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"John 19:26-27","kjv":"When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.","text":"Jesus provided for His mother from the cross. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Thank God for the gift of caring.","share":"Encourage family members to share care.","book":"pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Pastoral care under the cross","book_url":"/book.html?id=pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer"}}},{"day":8,"reading":{"ref":"Matthew 11:28","kjv":"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.","note":"Jesus calls the weary to Himself. Before He sends you to serve, He gives you rest."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"1 Corinthians 7:3","kjv":"Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.","text":"Husband and wife owe each other tenderness. Love serves rather than demands. Christ served you first.","try":"Do one thing today that she usually does.","share":"Model to your sons how a Christian man treats a woman.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Proverbs 14:1","kjv":"Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.","text":"Every wise woman builds her house. God gives you strength to build with His Word.","try":"Put a verse on the fridge this week.","share":"Share a family prayer idea with another mom.","book":"holding-hands-catherine-duerr","book_title":"Holding hands","book_url":"/book.html?id=holding-hands-catherine-duerr"},"parent":{"ref":"Isaiah 54:13","kjv":"And all thy children shall be taught of the Lord; and great shall be the peace of thy children.","text":"All thy children shall be taught of the Lord. God Himself teaches them through His Word.","try":"Learn one part of the Small Catechism together.","share":"Share the Catechism with a friend's family.","book":"why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene","book_title":"Why boys & girls are different","book_url":"/b/why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Titus 2:2","kjv":"That the aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience.","text":"Aged men be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith. Your steadiness is a witness.","try":"Be the calm voice in a family conflict.","share":"Mentor a younger man or woman.","book":"family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher","book_title":"Family life series","book_url":"/b/family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher.html"},"child":{"ref":"Proverbs 10:1","kjv":"The proverbs of Solomon. A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish son is the heaviness of his mother.","text":"A wise son makes a glad father. Your faith brings joy.","try":"Tell your parents something good from your week.","share":"Encourage a friend to share good news at home.","book":"why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene","book_title":"Why boys & girls are different","book_url":"/b/why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene.html"},"single":{"ref":"Ecclesiastes 4:9-10","kjv":"Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.","text":"Two are better than one. Invest in deep friendships.","try":"Call a friend just to talk.","share":"Start a small Bible study.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"student":{"ref":"Psalm 119:105","kjv":"נ NUN. Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.","text":"Thy word is a lamp unto my feet. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Read a chapter of John.","share":"Invite a friend to read too.","book":"psalms-now-leslie-f-brandt","book_title":"Psalms Now","book_url":"/b/psalms-now-leslie-f-brandt.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Psalm 90:17","kjv":"And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.","text":"Establish thou the work of our hands. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Pray this verse before work.","share":"Pray for your coworkers.","book":"little-hands-fold-and-do-carla-williams","book_title":"Little Hands Fold and Do","book_url":"/book.html?id=little-hands-fold-and-do-carla-williams"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Proverbs 3:27","kjv":"Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.","text":"Withhold not good from them to whom it is due. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Return a favor.","share":"Do a kindness anonymously.","book":"the-fabricated-luther-uwe-siemon-netto","book_title":"The fabricated Luther","book_url":"/b/the-fabricated-luther-uwe-siemon-netto.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Romans 12:12","kjv":"Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;","text":"Patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Pray at three times today.","share":"Pray with your loved one.","book":"is-there-really-life-after-death-james-n-watkins","book_title":"Is There Really Life After Death?","book_url":"/book.html?id=is-there-really-life-after-death-james-n-watkins"}}},{"day":9,"reading":{"ref":"John 1:29","kjv":"The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.","note":"Behold the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world, including the sins of your callings yesterday."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Ephesians 4:26","kjv":"Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath:","text":"Do not let the sun go down on your wrath. Reconcile today; God's forgiveness to you is the ground of it.","try":"Settle one argument before bed.","share":"Tell a friend struggling in marriage how forgiveness changed yours.","book":"unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields","book_title":"Unity in Marriage","book_url":"/book.html?id=unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields"},"wife":{"ref":"Genesis 2:18","kjv":"And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.","text":"God made woman as a helper fit for man. “Helper” is a word God uses for Himself. It is honor, not inferiority.","try":"Help your husband with something he dreads.","share":"Speak of your marriage as God's gift.","book":"marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz","book_title":"Marriage and family","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz"},"parent":{"ref":"Psalm 78:4","kjv":"We will not hide them from their children, shewing to the generation to come the praises of the Lord, and his strength, and his wonderful works that he hath done.","text":"We will show the generation to come the praises of the Lord. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Tell your children a time God helped you.","share":"Tell a friend the same story.","book":"the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren","book_title":"The little boat that almost sank","book_url":"/b/the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 90:12","kjv":"So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.","text":"Teach us to number our days. Use them for what lasts.","try":"Write a blessing letter to a grandchild.","share":"Encourage a friend to do the same.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"child":{"ref":"Ecclesiastes 12:1","kjv":"Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;","text":"Remember thy Creator in the days of thy youth. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Read a chapter of a Gospel.","share":"Invite a friend to youth group.","book":"the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren","book_title":"The little boat that almost sank","book_url":"/b/the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren.html"},"single":{"ref":"Jeremiah 29:11","kjv":"For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.","text":"God's thoughts toward you are peace. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Pray about your future.","share":"Pray with a friend about theirs.","book":"the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz","book_title":"The Hammer of God","book_url":"/b/the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz.html"},"student":{"ref":"Proverbs 4:7","kjv":"Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.","text":"Wisdom is the principal thing. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Ask a mentor a hard question.","share":"Share what you learned.","book":"haggai-zechariah-malachi-eric-s-hartzell","book_title":"Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi","book_url":"/b/haggai-zechariah-malachi-eric-s-hartzell.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Titus 2:9-10","kjv":"Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.","text":"Servants… adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. Your work can adorn the Gospel.","try":"Be trustworthy in a small thing.","share":"Let honesty speak.","book":"christ-s-kids-create-vicki-boston","book_title":"Christ's kids create!","book_url":"/book.html?id=christ-s-kids-create-vicki-boston"},"neighbor":{"ref":"1 Peter 4:9","kjv":"Use hospitality one to another without grudging.","text":"Use hospitality one to another without grudging. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Invite someone over.","share":"Pray before the meal together.","book":"on-the-nature-of-theology-and-holy-scripture-johann-gerhard","book_title":"On the nature of theology and Holy Scripture","book_url":"/b/on-the-nature-of-theology-and-holy-scripture-johann-gerhard.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Isaiah 40:31","kjv":"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.","text":"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Rest in God's strength.","share":"Share Isaiah 40:31.","book":"what-to-say-carol-fredericks-ebeling","book_title":"What to Say","book_url":"/book.html?id=what-to-say-carol-fredericks-ebeling"}}},{"day":10,"reading":{"ref":"Psalm 51:10","kjv":"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.","note":"Create in me a clean heart, O God. Only He can do it, and He does it in repentance and forgiveness."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Ecclesiastes 9:9","kjv":"Live joyfully with the wife whom thou lovest all the days of the life of thy vanity, which he hath given thee under the sun, all the days of thy vanity: for that is thy portion in this life, and in thy labour which thou takest under the sun.","text":"Live joyfully with the wife whom you love. Joy in marriage is a gift of God to be received with thanks.","try":"Plan a simple date, even at home.","share":"Show your children that marriage is joyful, not only hard.","book":"blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann","book_title":"Blessed is the man","book_url":"/book.html?id=blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann"},"wife":{"ref":"Ruth 1:16","kjv":"And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:","text":"“Thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.” Loyalty is a beautiful gift of love.","try":"Write down three ways God has been faithful to your family.","share":"Tell your children Ruth's story.","book":"marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Marriage Is Like Dancing","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer"},"parent":{"ref":"Proverbs 29:17","kjv":"Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul.","text":"Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest. Loving discipline is a gift.","try":"Be consistent with one rule today.","share":"Share wisdom with a parent who is struggling.","book":"friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson","book_title":"Friendly differences","book_url":"/b/friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Proverbs 13:22","kjv":"A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.","text":"A good man leaves an inheritance to his children's children. The best is faith.","try":"Give a grandchild a Bible with a note inside.","share":"Tell them why you love God's Word.","book":"out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf","book_title":"Out of the depths","book_url":"/book.html?id=out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf"},"child":{"ref":"1 Timothy 4:12","kjv":"Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.","text":"Let no man despise thy youth; but be an example of the believers. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Be kind to someone left out.","share":"Stand up for a friend.","book":"friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson","book_title":"Friendly differences","book_url":"/b/friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson.html"},"single":{"ref":"Hebrews 13:5","kjv":"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.","text":"I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Rest in His presence tonight.","share":"Text this verse to a friend.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"Matthew 5:14","kjv":"Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.","text":"Ye are the light of the world. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Be kind to someone left out.","share":"Sit with someone new at lunch.","book":"faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka","book_title":"Faithfully Parenting Teens","book_url":"/b/faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Proverbs 12:22","kjv":"Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.","text":"Lying lips are abomination; they that deal truly are His delight. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Be honest in one report.","share":"Encourage honesty.","book":"praise-god-with-banners-cph-teaching-resource-anita-reith-stohs","book_title":"Praise God With Banners (CPH Teaching Resource)","book_url":"/book.html?id=praise-god-with-banners-cph-teaching-resource-anita-reith-stohs"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Matthew 5:44","kjv":"But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;","text":"Love your enemies, pray for them which persecute you. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Pray for a difficult neighbor.","share":"Show kindness anyway.","book":"bishop-of-the-resistance-a-life-of-eivind-berggrav-bishop-of-oslo-norw","book_title":"Bishop of the Resistance: A Life of Eivind Berggrav, Bishop of Oslo, Norway","book_url":"/b/bishop-of-the-resistance-a-life-of-eivind-berggrav-bishop-of-oslo-norw.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Psalm 23:4","kjv":"Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.","text":"Though I walk through the valley… thou art with me. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Read Psalm 23 aloud.","share":"Pray it with your loved one.","book":"christian-concepts-for-care-david-j-ludwig","book_title":"Christian concepts for care","book_url":"/book.html?id=christian-concepts-for-care-david-j-ludwig"}}},{"day":11,"reading":{"ref":"1 John 1:9","kjv":"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.","note":"When we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive. Confession is not a work that earns; it is receiving."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Psalm 128:3","kjv":"Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house: thy children like olive plants round about thy table.","text":"Your wife like a fruitful vine, your children like olive plants around your table. The table is a holy place for family and Word.","try":"Lead the table prayer tonight.","share":"Teach your family “Come, Lord Jesus, be our guest.”","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"wife":{"ref":"1 Corinthians 7:4","kjv":"The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.","text":"In marriage, husband and wife belong to each other. Intimacy is God's good gift.","try":"Make time for your husband today.","share":"Encourage a friend in her marriage.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"parent":{"ref":"Matthew 18:6","kjv":"But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.","text":"Jesus treasures little ones. Guarding their faith is a holy task.","try":"Check what your child is watching today.","share":"Encourage your church's children's ministry.","book":"luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids","book_title":"Luther's Small Catechism for Kids","book_url":"/b/luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Ruth 4:15","kjv":"And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him.","text":"Naomi's grandson was a restorer of life. Grandchildren renew us.","try":"Thank God for a grandchild's laughter.","share":"Tell their parents you're thankful for them.","book":"every-day-is-saturday-l-james-harvey","book_title":"Every day is Saturday","book_url":"/book.html?id=every-day-is-saturday-l-james-harvey"},"child":{"ref":"Psalm 119:9","kjv":"ב BETH. Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.","text":"How shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed according to thy word.","try":"Memorize Psalm 119:9.","share":"Share it with a friend.","book":"luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids","book_title":"Luther's Small Catechism for Kids","book_url":"/b/luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids.html"},"single":{"ref":"Ruth 2:12","kjv":"The Lord recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the Lord God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust.","text":"Under His wings thou art come to trust. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Trust God with one decision.","share":"Encourage a friend to trust.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"student":{"ref":"Philippians 4:6","kjv":"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.","text":"Be careful for nothing; pray instead. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Pray about one stress.","share":"Pray with a stressed friend.","book":"christ-light-vol-4-wisconsin-evangelical-lutheran-synod-staff","book_title":"Christ-Light Vol. 4","book_url":"/b/christ-light-vol-4-wisconsin-evangelical-lutheran-synod-staff.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Matthew 5:16","kjv":"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.","text":"Let your light so shine. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Do a kind act at work.","share":"Invite a coworker to church.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Romans 12:15","kjv":"Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.","text":"Rejoice with them that rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Celebrate or comfort a friend.","share":"Offer to pray.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Ruth 1:16","kjv":"And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:","text":"Ruth stayed with Naomi. Loyalty in care is love.","try":"Thank God for your loved one.","share":"Tell them you're glad to be with them.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"}}},{"day":12,"reading":{"ref":"Romans 3:23-24","kjv":"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus:","note":"All have sinned; all are justified freely by His grace through the redemption in Christ Jesus."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Proverbs 18:22","kjv":"Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.","text":"He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the Lord. She is a gift, not a reward you earned.","try":"Thank God for her by name today.","share":"Tell your children how God brought you together.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Proverbs 31:30","kjv":"Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.","text":"A woman who fears the Lord shall be praised. Beauty fades; faith in Christ endures.","try":"Start the day with a psalm.","share":"Compliment a woman's faith, not just her looks.","book":"cherished-gifts-katie-martin","book_title":"Cherished gifts","book_url":"/book.html?id=cherished-gifts-katie-martin"},"parent":{"ref":"Luke 2:52","kjv":"And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.","text":"Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man. Faith grows over time.","try":"Notice and praise one area of growth.","share":"Pray for the children of your congregation.","book":"little-visits-with-jesus-mary-manz-simon","book_title":"Little visits with Jesus","book_url":"/b/little-visits-with-jesus-mary-manz-simon.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 78:6","kjv":"That the generation to come might know them, even the children which should be born; who should arise and declare them to their children:","text":"That the generation to come might know them. Pass on the Catechism.","try":"Teach a grandchild the Lord's Prayer.","share":"Explain one petition to them.","book":"little-visits-with-god-allan-hart-jahsmann","book_title":"Little visits with God","book_url":"/book.html?id=little-visits-with-god-allan-hart-jahsmann"},"child":{"ref":"Proverbs 3:1","kjv":"My son, forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments:","text":"Forget not my law; but let thine heart keep my commandments. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Review the Ten Commandments.","share":"Explain one to a younger child.","book":"god-makes-me-his-child-in-baptism-janet-wittenback","book_title":"God Makes Me His Child in Baptism","book_url":"/b/god-makes-me-his-child-in-baptism-janet-wittenback.html"},"single":{"ref":"Psalm 37:4","kjv":"Delight thyself also in the Lord; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart.","text":"Delight thyself in the Lord. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Spend 15 minutes in Scripture.","share":"Share what you learned.","book":"last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader","book_title":"Last summer at Eden","book_url":"/book.html?id=last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader"},"student":{"ref":"1 Corinthians 10:31","kjv":"Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.","text":"Do all to the glory of God. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Do a boring task with thanks.","share":"Encourage a friend.","book":"law-and-gospel-how-to-read-and-apply-the-bible-c-f-w-walther","book_title":"Law and Gospel: How to Read and Apply the Bible","book_url":"/b/law-and-gospel-how-to-read-and-apply-the-bible-c-f-w-walther.html"},"worker":{"ref":"2 Thessalonians 3:10","kjv":"For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.","text":"If any would not work, neither should he eat. Work serves the community.","try":"Be on time today.","share":"Cover for a sick coworker.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Proverbs 27:10","kjv":"Thine own friend, and thy father’s friend, forsake not; neither go into thy brother’s house in the day of thy calamity: for better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off.","text":"Better is a neighbour that is near than a brother far off. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Check on an elderly neighbor.","share":"Offer a ride to church.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Philippians 4:19","kjv":"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.","text":"My God shall supply all your need. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Ask God for one specific need.","share":"Accept help offered.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"}}},{"day":13,"reading":{"ref":"Galatians 2:20","kjv":"I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.","note":"Christ lives in you by faith. The life you live in your callings is lived by faith in the Son of God."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Matthew 19:6","kjv":"Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.","text":"What God has joined, let no man put asunder. Your vows rest on God's joining, and He keeps what He joins.","try":"Pray for your marriage by name today.","share":"Pray for a couple you know who is struggling.","book":"marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz","book_title":"Marriage and family","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz"},"wife":{"ref":"Philippians 4:11","kjv":"Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.","text":"Paul learned contentment. Contentment in marriage comes from Christ, not from circumstances.","try":"Name three things you're grateful for in your home.","share":"Model contentment to your children.","book":"soul-spa-sharla-fritz","book_title":"Soul spa","book_url":"/book.html?id=soul-spa-sharla-fritz"},"parent":{"ref":"Proverbs 1:8","kjv":"My son, hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother:","text":"Hear the instruction of thy father, and forsake not the law of thy mother. Both parents teach.","try":"Read the Ten Commandments together.","share":"Put the Lord's Prayer on your child's wall.","book":"the-baptism-of-your-child-thomas-e-fast","book_title":"The baptism of your child","book_url":"/b/the-baptism-of-your-child-thomas-e-fast.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Job 12:12","kjv":"With the ancient is wisdom; and in length of days understanding.","text":"With the ancient is wisdom. Offer it gently.","try":"Ask before giving advice.","share":"Respect the parents' lead.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"},"child":{"ref":"Ruth 1:16","kjv":"And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:","text":"Ruth was loyal to Naomi. Loyalty to family is love.","try":"Spend time with a family member.","share":"Include a lonely cousin.","book":"portals-of-prayer-for-kids-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"Portals of Prayer for Kids","book_url":"/b/portals-of-prayer-for-kids-concordia-publishing-house.html"},"single":{"ref":"1 Timothy 5:1-2","kjv":"Rebuke not an elder, but intreat him as a father; and the younger men as brethren; The elder women as mothers; the younger as sisters, with all purity.","text":"Treat men as brothers and women as sisters. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Build a godly friendship.","share":"Model honor in dating.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"Proverbs 13:20","kjv":"He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed.","text":"He that walks with wise men shall be wise. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Spend time with a wise friend.","share":"Be a wise friend.","book":"the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz","book_title":"The Hammer of God","book_url":"/b/the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz.html"},"worker":{"ref":"1 Peter 2:18","kjv":"Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.","text":"Servants, be subject to your masters, not only to the good, but also to the froward. Christ suffered unjustly for you.","try":"Respond graciously to a hard boss.","share":"Pray for your manager.","book":"christian-ethics-in-the-workplace-raymond-l-hilgert","book_title":"Christian ethics in the workplace","book_url":"/book.html?id=christian-ethics-in-the-workplace-raymond-l-hilgert"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Ephesians 4:29","kjv":"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.","text":"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Encourage someone with words.","share":"Avoid gossip.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"James 5:14","kjv":"Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord:","text":"Call for the elders of the church, and let them pray. Ask your pastor to visit and bring the Lord's Supper.","try":"Call your pastor to visit.","share":"Encourage others to request visits.","book":"coping-with-compassion-fatigue-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"Coping with compassion fatigue","book_url":"/b/coping-with-compassion-fatigue-concordia-publishing-house.html"}}},{"day":14,"reading":{"ref":"Matthew 26:26-28","kjv":"And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.","note":"“Take, eat; this is my body… this is my blood… for the remission of sins.” Christ gives Himself in His Supper."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Song of Solomon 8:7","kjv":"Many waters cannot quench love, neither can the floods drown it: if a man would give all the substance of his house for love, it would utterly be contemned.","text":"Many waters cannot quench love. God's love in Christ is stronger than every storm, and it holds your marriage.","try":"Hold her hand and pray in a hard moment.","share":"Share Song 8:7 with a newly married couple.","book":"marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Marriage Is Like Dancing","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer"},"wife":{"ref":"1 Peter 3:1","kjv":"Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives;","text":"Wives may win husbands without a word by their conduct. God works quietly through faithful love.","try":"Pray for your husband's faith.","share":"Pray for women whose husbands don't believe.","book":"quenched-donna-pyle","book_title":"Quenched","book_url":"/book.html?id=quenched-donna-pyle"},"parent":{"ref":"Joel 1:3","kjv":"Tell ye your children of it, and let your children tell their children, and their children another generation.","text":"Tell ye your children of it, and let your children tell their children. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Start a family faith story jar.","share":"Ask grandparents to share their faith stories.","book":"faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka","book_title":"Faithfully Parenting Teens","book_url":"/b/faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Luke 2:36-38","kjv":"And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.","text":"Anna, an old widow, served God with fasting and prayers and spoke of Jesus. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Pray at a set time for your family.","share":"Speak of Jesus to a visitor.","book":"the-thankful-leper-cynthia-a-hinkle","book_title":"The thankful leper","book_url":"/b/the-thankful-leper-cynthia-a-hinkle.html"},"child":{"ref":"Genesis 45:15","kjv":"Moreover he kissed all his brethren, and wept upon them: and after that his brethren talked with him.","text":"Joseph forgave his brothers. Forgive your siblings.","try":"Forgive a sibling today.","share":"Say “I forgive you” out loud.","book":"things-i-see-at-baptism-julie-stiegemeyer","book_title":"Things I See at Baptism","book_url":"/b/things-i-see-at-baptism-julie-stiegemeyer.html"},"single":{"ref":"Proverbs 18:24","kjv":"A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.","text":"There is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Be that friend to someone.","share":"Check on someone struggling.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"student":{"ref":"Luke 2:46-47","kjv":"And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding and answers.","text":"Jesus listened and asked questions in the temple. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Ask a good question in class.","share":"Help a friend understand.","book":"concordia-the-lutheran-confessions-paul-timothy-mccain-ed","book_title":"Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions","book_url":"/b/concordia-the-lutheran-confessions-paul-timothy-mccain-ed.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Proverbs 16:3","kjv":"Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.","text":"Commit thy works unto the Lord. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Pray over your to-do list.","share":"Pray for a stressed coworker.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"James 2:15-16","kjv":"If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?","text":"Faith shows itself in care for real needs. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Donate food to a pantry.","share":"Invite a friend to help.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Hebrews 13:5","kjv":"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.","text":"I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Remember God is with you in the night.","share":"Remind your loved one.","book":"out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf","book_title":"Out of the depths","book_url":"/book.html?id=out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf"}}},{"day":15,"reading":{"ref":"John 15:5","kjv":"I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.","note":"Apart from Christ you can do nothing. Connected to Him through His Word, you bear fruit."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Romans 12:10","kjv":"Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;","text":"In honour preferring one another. Put her first in a small thing today.","try":"Let her choose: the show, the meal, the plan.","share":"Model honor; it speaks louder than argument.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Proverbs 12:4","kjv":"A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.","text":"A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband. You honor him by your faith.","try":"Bless him as he leaves for work.","share":"Bless your children as they leave for school.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"parent":{"ref":"Genesis 18:19","kjv":"For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment; that the Lord may bring upon Abraham that which he hath spoken of him.","text":"God chose Abraham to command his children to keep the way of the Lord. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Lead a five-minute devotion tonight.","share":"Invite another family to devotions.","book":"faithfully-parenting-preschoolers-john-r-bucka","book_title":"Faithfully parenting preschoolers","book_url":"/b/faithfully-parenting-preschoolers-john-r-bucka.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Genesis 48:15-16","kjv":"And he blessed Joseph, and said, God, before whom my fathers Abraham and Isaac did walk, the God which fed me all my life long unto this day, The Angel which redeemed me from all evil, bless the lads; and let my name be named on them, and the name of my fathers Abraham and Isaac; and let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth.","text":"Jacob blessed his grandsons. Speak blessing over your grandchildren.","try":"Speak a blessing on your next call.","share":"Teach the Aaronic blessing to the family.","book":"queen-who-saved-her-people-book-of-esther-for-children-carol-greene","book_title":"Queen Who Saved Her People: Book of Esther for children","book_url":"/b/queen-who-saved-her-people-book-of-esther-for-children-carol-greene.html"},"child":{"ref":"Luke 15:21","kjv":"And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.","text":"The prodigal said, “Father, I have sinned.” Confessing at home is hard, and forgiveness is sweet.","try":"Apologize to a parent for something.","share":"Tell a friend how forgiveness feels.","book":"150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit","book_title":"150 Psalms for Teens","book_url":"/book.html?id=150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit"},"single":{"ref":"Mark 10:29-30","kjv":"And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life.","text":"Those who leave for Christ receive houses, brothers, sisters a hundredfold. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Thank God for your church family.","share":"Invite someone to your home.","book":"the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz","book_title":"The Hammer of God","book_url":"/b/the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz.html"},"student":{"ref":"Psalm 139:14","kjv":"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.","text":"You are fearfully and wonderfully made. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Reject one lie about yourself.","share":"Affirm a classmate.","book":"lutheran-bible-companion-edward-engelbrecht","book_title":"Lutheran Bible companion","book_url":"/b/lutheran-bible-companion-edward-engelbrecht.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Luke 3:14","kjv":"And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your wages.","text":"John told soldiers, “Do violence to no man… be content with your wages.” Faith shapes ordinary work.","try":"Practice contentment with your pay.","share":"Don't join complaining.","book":"the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman","book_title":"The life you crave","book_url":"/book.html?id=the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Mark 2:3-5","kjv":"And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy, which was borne of four. And when they could not come nigh unto him for the press, they uncovered the roof where he was: and when they had broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.","text":"Four friends carried a paralytic to Jesus. Bring friends to Jesus.","try":"Invite a friend to hear God's Word.","share":"Bring them to church.","book":"the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman","book_title":"The life you crave","book_url":"/book.html?id=the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Lamentations 3:22-23","kjv":"It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.","text":"His compassions fail not; they are new every morning. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Start fresh today; yesterday's impatience is forgiven.","share":"Forgive yourself as God forgives you.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"}}},{"day":16,"reading":{"ref":"Colossians 3:17","kjv":"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.","note":"Whatever you do, in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. No calling is too small for that."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"1 Corinthians 13:4","kjv":"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,","text":"Love suffers long and is kind. You don't have that love by yourself; Christ gives it. Ask Him.","try":"Respond to a frustration with patience.","share":"Read 1 Corinthians 13 aloud with the family.","book":"unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields","book_title":"Unity in Marriage","book_url":"/book.html?id=unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields"},"wife":{"ref":"Ephesians 4:2","kjv":"With all lowliness and meekness, with longsuffering, forbearing one another in love;","text":"With lowliness and meekness, forbearing one another in love. Patience is a gift the Spirit grows.","try":"Overlook one small offense today.","share":"Teach your children to forbear.","book":"godly-moms-45-two-to-three-minute-devotions-lenore-buth","book_title":"Godly Moms (45 two-to-three-minute devotions)","book_url":"/b/godly-moms-45-two-to-three-minute-devotions-lenore-buth.html"},"parent":{"ref":"1 Samuel 3:10","kjv":"And the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant heareth.","text":"“Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth.” Teach your child to listen to God's Word.","try":"Teach Samuel's prayer at bedtime.","share":"Share 1 Samuel 3 with a child you know.","book":"bible-make-do-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do","book_url":"/b/bible-make-do-gillian-chapman.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 37:25","kjv":"I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.","text":"I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Tell the family how God provided.","share":"Share this verse at a family meal.","book":"family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher","book_title":"Family life series","book_url":"/b/family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher.html"},"child":{"ref":"Matthew 15:4","kjv":"For God commanded, saying, Honour thy father and mother: and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the death.","text":"God said, Honour thy father and mother. Jesus upholds this command.","try":"Speak respectfully about your parents.","share":"Don't join friends who mock their parents.","book":"bible-make-do-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do","book_url":"/b/bible-make-do-gillian-chapman.html"},"single":{"ref":"Galatians 6:10","kjv":"As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.","text":"Do good to all, especially the household of faith. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Help someone at church.","share":"Help a neighbor.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"Ecclesiastes 12:12","kjv":"And further, by these, my son, be admonished: of making many books there is no end; and much study is a weariness of the flesh.","text":"Much study is a weariness of the flesh. Rest is God's gift too.","try":"Get enough sleep tonight.","share":"Invite a friend to rest well.","book":"150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit","book_title":"150 Psalms for Teens","book_url":"/book.html?id=150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit"},"worker":{"ref":"Daniel 6:4","kjv":"Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him.","text":"They could find no fault in Daniel. Faithfulness is a witness.","try":"Do your job faithfully.","share":"Let integrity open doors to talk about faith.","book":"pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Pastoral care under the cross","book_url":"/book.html?id=pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer"},"neighbor":{"ref":"1 Thessalonians 5:11","kjv":"Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.","text":"Comfort yourselves together, and edify one another. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Send an encouraging note.","share":"Share a Bible verse.","book":"god-s-word-for-today-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"God's Word for Today","book_url":"/b/god-s-word-for-today-concordia-publishing-house.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Psalm 46:1","kjv":"To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.","text":"God is a very present help in trouble. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Pray in the next hard moment.","share":"Share Psalm 46 with someone.","book":"family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher","book_title":"Family life series","book_url":"/b/family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher.html"}}},{"day":17,"reading":{"ref":"Micah 6:8","kjv":"He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?","note":"God has shown you what is good: to do justly, love mercy and walk humbly with your God."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Philippians 2:3","kjv":"Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.","text":"Let each esteem other better than themselves. Pride wrecks homes. Humility is Christ's mind in you.","try":"Admit one mistake without excuse.","share":"Tell your sons, “I was wrong, and Jesus forgives me.”","book":"blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann","book_title":"Blessed is the man","book_url":"/book.html?id=blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann"},"wife":{"ref":"Song of Solomon 2:16","kjv":"My beloved is mine, and I am his: he feedeth among the lilies.","text":"“My beloved is mine, and I am his.” Delight is part of marriage.","try":"Remember a happy memory together.","share":"Celebrate love as God's gift with your kids.","book":"unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields","book_title":"Unity in Marriage","book_url":"/book.html?id=unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields"},"parent":{"ref":"Psalm 103:13","kjv":"Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear him.","text":"As a father pities his children, so the Lord pities them that fear Him. Your mercy mirrors His.","try":"Show mercy instead of a lecture once today.","share":"Tell a friend how God's mercy shapes your parenting.","book":"love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss","book_title":"Love, sex, and God","book_url":"/b/love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Ecclesiastes 12:1","kjv":"Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;","text":"Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth. Help grandchildren remember Him.","try":"Take a grandchild to church.","share":"Sit with them and show them the hymnal.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"child":{"ref":"John 19:26-27","kjv":"When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.","text":"On the cross, Jesus cared for His mother. Even in suffering, He honored her.","try":"Do something kind for your mother.","share":"Tell a friend about Jesus' love for Mary.","book":"love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss","book_title":"Love, sex, and God","book_url":"/b/love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss.html"},"single":{"ref":"Colossians 3:23","kjv":"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;","text":"Work heartily, as to the Lord. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Give your best at work today.","share":"Encourage a coworker.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"student":{"ref":"Proverbs 3:5","kjv":"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.","text":"Trust in the Lord, lean not on your own understanding. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Pray before a big decision.","share":"Pray with a friend about theirs.","book":"reading-romans-with-luther-r-j-grunewald","book_title":"Reading Romans with Luther","book_url":"/book.html?id=reading-romans-with-luther-r-j-grunewald"},"worker":{"ref":"Exodus 31:3","kjv":"And I have filled him with the spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship,","text":"God filled Bezalel with skill for craftsmanship. Skill is His gift.","try":"Thank God for your skills.","share":"Teach a skill to someone.","book":"bible-make-do-book-four-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do, Book Four","book_url":"/book.html?id=bible-make-do-book-four-gillian-chapman"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Leviticus 19:18","kjv":"Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge against the children of thy people, but thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself: I am the Lord.","text":"Thou shalt not avenge, nor bear any grudge. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Let go of a grudge.","share":"Reconcile if you can.","book":"where-do-babies-come-from-ruth-s-hummel","book_title":"Where do babies come from?","book_url":"/b/where-do-babies-come-from-ruth-s-hummel.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"1 Peter 5:7","kjv":"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.","text":"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Write down your cares and pray.","share":"Encourage a friend to do the same.","book":"pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Pastoral care under the cross","book_url":"/book.html?id=pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer"}}},{"day":18,"reading":{"ref":"Matthew 22:37-39","kjv":"Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.","note":"Love God with all your heart, and your neighbor as yourself. The Law shows us how far we fall short, and Christ fulfilled it for us."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Proverbs 15:1","kjv":"A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.","text":"A soft answer turns away wrath. Your words can heal or wound today.","try":"Lower your voice in the next tense moment.","share":"Teach your children the soft answer by using it.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Psalm 37:5","kjv":"Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.","text":"Commit your way to the Lord. Bring your worries about your home to Him.","try":"Write down one worry and pray over it.","share":"Pray with a friend who is anxious.","book":"holding-hands-catherine-duerr","book_title":"Holding hands","book_url":"/book.html?id=holding-hands-catherine-duerr"},"parent":{"ref":"Luke 15:20","kjv":"And he arose, and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.","text":"The father ran to his prodigal son. Run to your child with forgiveness.","try":"Hug your child after a conflict.","share":"Share the prodigal story with a hurting parent.","book":"why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene","book_title":"Why boys & girls are different","book_url":"/b/why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Philippians 1:21","kjv":"For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.","text":"To live is Christ, to die is gain. Your hope shapes how you face aging.","try":"Talk honestly about your hope in Christ.","share":"Share it with a friend who fears death.","book":"out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf","book_title":"Out of the depths","book_url":"/book.html?id=out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf"},"child":{"ref":"Proverbs 6:20","kjv":"My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother:","text":"Keep thy father's commandment. It will lead you.","try":"Follow a family rule cheerfully.","share":"Encourage a sibling to do the same.","book":"why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene","book_title":"Why boys & girls are different","book_url":"/b/why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene.html"},"single":{"ref":"Psalm 25:16","kjv":"Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted.","text":"Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Bring loneliness to God in prayer.","share":"Notice someone alone.","book":"last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader","book_title":"Last summer at Eden","book_url":"/book.html?id=last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader"},"student":{"ref":"Galatians 6:9","kjv":"And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.","text":"Let us not be weary in well doing. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Finish one hard task.","share":"Encourage a friend to persevere.","book":"bible-bible","book_title":"Bible","book_url":"/b/bible-bible.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Proverbs 14:23","kjv":"In all labour there is profit: but the talk of the lips tendeth only to penury.","text":"In all labour there is profit. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Finish one task fully.","share":"Celebrate a team success.","book":"little-hands-fold-and-do-carla-williams","book_title":"Little Hands Fold and Do","book_url":"/book.html?id=little-hands-fold-and-do-carla-williams"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Proverbs 11:25","kjv":"The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.","text":"The liberal soul shall be made fat. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Give generously today.","share":"Share with a neighbor.","book":"the-fabricated-luther-uwe-siemon-netto","book_title":"The fabricated Luther","book_url":"/b/the-fabricated-luther-uwe-siemon-netto.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Ecclesiastes 4:9-10","kjv":"Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up.","text":"Two are better than one; if one falls, the other lifts him up. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Find a support partner.","share":"Offer support to another caregiver.","book":"is-there-really-life-after-death-james-n-watkins","book_title":"Is There Really Life After Death?","book_url":"/book.html?id=is-there-really-life-after-death-james-n-watkins"}}},{"day":19,"reading":{"ref":"Ephesians 4:32","kjv":"And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.","note":"Be kind, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God for Christ's sake has forgiven you."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Ephesians 5:28","kjv":"So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies. He that loveth his wife loveth himself.","text":"He who loves his wife loves himself. Caring for her is never wasted.","try":"Take care of something she has been worried about.","share":"Encourage a friend to cherish his wife.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Proverbs 31:27","kjv":"She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.","text":"She looks well to the ways of her household. Faithful work is holy work.","try":"Give thanks for the work of your hands.","share":"Tell a coworker how faith shapes your work.","book":"marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz","book_title":"Marriage and family","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz"},"parent":{"ref":"Hebrews 12:11","kjv":"Now no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.","text":"No chastening seems joyous for now, but afterward yields peace. Hang in there.","try":"Follow through on one consequence calmly.","share":"Encourage a parent of a toddler.","book":"the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren","book_title":"The little boat that almost sank","book_url":"/b/the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 103:17","kjv":"But the mercy of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting upon them that fear him, and his righteousness unto children’s children;","text":"The mercy of the Lord is from everlasting… and his righteousness unto children's children. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Thank God for His mercy across generations.","share":"Write down your family's faith history.","book":"every-day-is-saturday-l-james-harvey","book_title":"Every day is Saturday","book_url":"/book.html?id=every-day-is-saturday-l-james-harvey"},"child":{"ref":"Psalm 27:10","kjv":"When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.","text":"When my father and my mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up. God is your Father always.","try":"Pray for your parents.","share":"Comfort a friend whose family is hard.","book":"the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren","book_title":"The little boat that almost sank","book_url":"/b/the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren.html"},"single":{"ref":"Romans 12:13","kjv":"Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.","text":"Given to hospitality. Singles can host too.","try":"Invite people over this week.","share":"Cook for a family with a newborn.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"2 Timothy 3:16-17","kjv":"All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.","text":"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Study one Bible verse closely.","share":"Share what it means.","book":"psalms-now-leslie-f-brandt","book_title":"Psalms Now","book_url":"/b/psalms-now-leslie-f-brandt.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Romans 12:11","kjv":"Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;","text":"Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Start your day with prayer.","share":"Share a verse at work if welcome.","book":"christ-s-kids-create-vicki-boston","book_title":"Christ's kids create!","book_url":"/book.html?id=christ-s-kids-create-vicki-boston"},"neighbor":{"ref":"John 4:39","kjv":"And many of the Samaritans of that city believed on him for the saying of the woman, which testified, He told me all that ever I did.","text":"The Samaritan woman told her town, “Come, see.” Simple invitation is evangelism.","try":"Say “Come and see” to someone.","share":"Invite them to worship.","book":"on-the-nature-of-theology-and-holy-scripture-johann-gerhard","book_title":"On the nature of theology and Holy Scripture","book_url":"/b/on-the-nature-of-theology-and-holy-scripture-johann-gerhard.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Psalm 121:4","kjv":"Behold, he that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep.","text":"He that keepeth Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Sleep in peace; God keeps watch.","share":"Pray this for your loved one.","book":"what-to-say-carol-fredericks-ebeling","book_title":"What to Say","book_url":"/book.html?id=what-to-say-carol-fredericks-ebeling"}}},{"day":20,"reading":{"ref":"1 Peter 2:9","kjv":"But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:","note":"You are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, called out of darkness into His marvelous light."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Hebrews 13:4","kjv":"Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.","text":"Marriage is honorable in all. God guards it. Where we have dishonored it, Christ forgives and restores.","try":"Give thanks for the gift of marriage.","share":"Speak honor about marriage among coworkers.","book":"marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz","book_title":"Marriage and family","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz"},"wife":{"ref":"Ephesians 5:21","kjv":"Submitting yourselves one to another in the fear of God.","text":"Submit to one another in the fear of God. Husband and wife serve each other.","try":"Ask how you can serve him this week.","share":"Model mutual service for your children.","book":"marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Marriage Is Like Dancing","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer"},"parent":{"ref":"James 1:5","kjv":"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.","text":"If any lack wisdom, let him ask of God. Parents need wisdom daily.","try":"Ask God for wisdom in one decision.","share":"Pray with your spouse about a child.","book":"friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson","book_title":"Friendly differences","book_url":"/b/friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Proverbs 16:31","kjv":"The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness.","text":"The hoary head is a crown of glory, if found in righteousness. Gray hair is not shame.","try":"Smile at your reflection with thanks.","share":"Encourage a friend who feels old.","book":"little-visits-with-god-allan-hart-jahsmann","book_title":"Little visits with God","book_url":"/book.html?id=little-visits-with-god-allan-hart-jahsmann"},"child":{"ref":"Proverbs 4:1","kjv":"Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father, and attend to know understanding.","text":"Hear, ye children, the instruction of a father. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Ask your dad a question about faith.","share":"Share his answer with a friend.","book":"friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson","book_title":"Friendly differences","book_url":"/b/friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson.html"},"single":{"ref":"1 Peter 4:10","kjv":"As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.","text":"Minister your gifts to one another. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Identify one gift and use it.","share":"Affirm a friend's gift.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"student":{"ref":"Philippians 4:13","kjv":"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.","text":"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Lean on Christ in weakness.","share":"Encourage a friend in a hard class.","book":"haggai-zechariah-malachi-eric-s-hartzell","book_title":"Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi","book_url":"/b/haggai-zechariah-malachi-eric-s-hartzell.html"},"worker":{"ref":"James 5:4","kjv":"Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.","text":"God hears the cries of laborers. Treat workers justly.","try":"Thank a service worker by name.","share":"Tip generously.","book":"praise-god-with-banners-cph-teaching-resource-anita-reith-stohs","book_title":"Praise God With Banners (CPH Teaching Resource)","book_url":"/book.html?id=praise-god-with-banners-cph-teaching-resource-anita-reith-stohs"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Zechariah 8:16","kjv":"These are the things that ye shall do; Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour; execute the judgment of truth and peace in your gates:","text":"Speak ye every man the truth to his neighbour. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Be honest kindly.","share":"Restore trust.","book":"bishop-of-the-resistance-a-life-of-eivind-berggrav-bishop-of-oslo-norw","book_title":"Bishop of the Resistance: A Life of Eivind Berggrav, Bishop of Oslo, Norway","book_url":"/b/bishop-of-the-resistance-a-life-of-eivind-berggrav-bishop-of-oslo-norw.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Mark 1:41","kjv":"And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.","text":"Jesus, moved with compassion, touched the leper. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Offer a gentle touch today.","share":"Show compassion to the overlooked.","book":"christian-concepts-for-care-david-j-ludwig","book_title":"Christian concepts for care","book_url":"/book.html?id=christian-concepts-for-care-david-j-ludwig"}}},{"day":21,"reading":{"ref":"Philippians 4:6-7","kjv":"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.","note":"In everything by prayer, let your requests be made known to God, and His peace will keep your heart."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Psalm 127:1","kjv":"A Song of degrees for Solomon. Except the Lord build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the Lord keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.","text":"Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain. Bring your home to His Word daily.","try":"Start a five-minute family devotion tonight.","share":"Invite your neighbors to a Christmas or Easter service.","book":"marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Marriage Is Like Dancing","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer"},"wife":{"ref":"Luke 1:38","kjv":"And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed from her.","text":"Mary said, “Be it unto me according to thy word.” Faith trusts God's Word.","try":"Pray Mary's words when life changes.","share":"Share Mary's faith with your daughter.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"parent":{"ref":"Matthew 7:11","kjv":"If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?","text":"If you know how to give good gifts, how much more will your Father in heaven. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Give your child your undivided attention for 15 minutes.","share":"Show the same attention to a neighbor's kids.","book":"luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids","book_title":"Luther's Small Catechism for Kids","book_url":"/b/luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Joel 2:28","kjv":"And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions:","text":"Your old men shall dream dreams. God still uses you.","try":"Dream of one way to bless your family.","share":"Share it with them.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"},"child":{"ref":"2 Timothy 3:14","kjv":"But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;","text":"Continue in the things which thou hast learned. Hold onto what you were taught.","try":"Review a Catechism question.","share":"Teach it to a sibling.","book":"luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids","book_title":"Luther's Small Catechism for Kids","book_url":"/b/luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids.html"},"single":{"ref":"Lamentations 3:25","kjv":"The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him.","text":"The Lord is good unto them that wait for him. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Wait with prayer, not worry.","share":"Encourage a waiting friend.","book":"the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz","book_title":"The Hammer of God","book_url":"/b/the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz.html"},"student":{"ref":"Psalm 1:1-2","kjv":"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditate day and night.","text":"Blessed is the man whose delight is in the law of the Lord. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Read Psalm 1.","share":"Discuss it with a friend.","book":"faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka","book_title":"Faithfully Parenting Teens","book_url":"/b/faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Matthew 25:21","kjv":"His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.","text":"Well done, good and faithful servant. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Be faithful in a little thing.","share":"Encourage a coworker's faithfulness.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Philippians 2:4","kjv":"Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others.","text":"Look every man also on the things of others. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Ask a neighbor what they need.","share":"Help.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Romans 8:28","kjv":"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.","text":"All things work together for good to them that love God. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Trust God in a hard situation.","share":"Share hope gently.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"}}},{"day":22,"reading":{"ref":"Psalm 46:1","kjv":"To the chief Musician for the sons of Korah, A Song upon Alamoth. God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.","note":"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"John 13:14","kjv":"If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet.","text":"Jesus washed feet. Servant-leadership is not weakness. It is Christ's love in action.","try":"Serve her in a humble task today.","share":"Let your kids see Dad serving.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"1 Samuel 1:27","kjv":"For this child I prayed; and the Lord hath given me my petition which I asked of him:","text":"Hannah prayed for her child. God hears a wife's prayers.","try":"Pray for each child by name.","share":"Pray for a woman longing for a child.","book":"cherished-gifts-katie-martin","book_title":"Cherished gifts","book_url":"/book.html?id=cherished-gifts-katie-martin"},"parent":{"ref":"Romans 8:15","kjv":"For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.","text":"You have received the Spirit of adoption, crying “Abba, Father.” Teach your children God is their Father.","try":"Pray the Lord's Prayer with them.","share":"Explain “Our Father” to a curious child.","book":"little-visits-with-jesus-mary-manz-simon","book_title":"Little visits with Jesus","book_url":"/b/little-visits-with-jesus-mary-manz-simon.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"2 Corinthians 4:16","kjv":"For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day.","text":"Though our outward man perish, the inward man is renewed day by day. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Read Scripture slowly today.","share":"Share an audio Bible with a friend.","book":"the-thankful-leper-cynthia-a-hinkle","book_title":"The thankful leper","book_url":"/b/the-thankful-leper-cynthia-a-hinkle.html"},"child":{"ref":"Proverbs 20:11","kjv":"Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work be pure, and whether it be right.","text":"Even a child is known by his doings. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Do one hidden good deed.","share":"Let it stay hidden.","book":"god-makes-me-his-child-in-baptism-janet-wittenback","book_title":"God Makes Me His Child in Baptism","book_url":"/b/god-makes-me-his-child-in-baptism-janet-wittenback.html"},"single":{"ref":"John 15:15","kjv":"Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his lord doeth: but I have called you friends; for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made known unto you.","text":"Jesus calls you friend. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Thank Jesus for His friendship.","share":"Be a friend to someone new.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"Romans 1:16","kjv":"For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.","text":"I am not ashamed of the gospel. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Say grace openly at lunch.","share":"Invite a friend to church.","book":"christ-light-vol-4-wisconsin-evangelical-lutheran-synod-staff","book_title":"Christ-Light Vol. 4","book_url":"/b/christ-light-vol-4-wisconsin-evangelical-lutheran-synod-staff.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Psalm 127:2","kjv":"It is vain for you to rise up early, to sit up late, to eat the bread of sorrows: for so he giveth his beloved sleep.","text":"It is vain to rise up early and sit up late; He gives His beloved sleep. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Leave work on time today.","share":"Encourage healthy rest.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Romans 15:2","kjv":"Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.","text":"Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Do something that builds someone up.","share":"Encourage faith.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Psalm 31:15","kjv":"My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me.","text":"My times are in thy hand. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Pray over your schedule.","share":"Pray for your loved one's time.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"}}},{"day":23,"reading":{"ref":"Lamentations 3:22-23","kjv":"It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.","note":"His mercies are new every morning. Great is His faithfulness."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Galatians 6:2","kjv":"Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.","text":"Bear one another's burdens. Ask what weighs on her heart.","try":"Ask: “What is heavy for you this week?”","share":"Carry a burden for a neighbor too.","book":"unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields","book_title":"Unity in Marriage","book_url":"/book.html?id=unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields"},"wife":{"ref":"Proverbs 31:20","kjv":"She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.","text":"She stretches out her hand to the poor. Mercy flows from a home where Christ dwells.","try":"Bake or buy something for a neighbor.","share":"Invite a lonely neighbor to dinner.","book":"soul-spa-sharla-fritz","book_title":"Soul spa","book_url":"/book.html?id=soul-spa-sharla-fritz"},"parent":{"ref":"Psalm 139:14","kjv":"I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.","text":"Each child is fearfully and wonderfully made. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Tell each child one way God made them special.","share":"Speak Psalm 139 to a child who feels different.","book":"the-baptism-of-your-child-thomas-e-fast","book_title":"The baptism of your child","book_url":"/b/the-baptism-of-your-child-thomas-e-fast.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 48:14","kjv":"For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death.","text":"This God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even unto death. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Pray this verse in the evening.","share":"Pray it with a homebound friend.","book":"queen-who-saved-her-people-book-of-esther-for-children-carol-greene","book_title":"Queen Who Saved Her People: Book of Esther for children","book_url":"/b/queen-who-saved-her-people-book-of-esther-for-children-carol-greene.html"},"child":{"ref":"Romans 12:10","kjv":"Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;","text":"Be kindly affectioned one to another. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Hug a family member.","share":"Be kind to a neighbor's kid.","book":"portals-of-prayer-for-kids-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"Portals of Prayer for Kids","book_url":"/b/portals-of-prayer-for-kids-concordia-publishing-house.html"},"single":{"ref":"Psalm 139:16","kjv":"Thine eyes did see my substance, yet being unperfect; and in thy book all my members were written, which in continuance were fashioned, when as yet there was none of them.","text":"Your days were written in His book. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Trust His timing.","share":"Share Psalm 139 with a friend.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"student":{"ref":"Proverbs 16:3","kjv":"Commit thy works unto the Lord, and thy thoughts shall be established.","text":"Commit thy works unto the Lord. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Pray over your schedule.","share":"Pray for a friend's day.","book":"law-and-gospel-how-to-read-and-apply-the-bible-c-f-w-walther","book_title":"Law and Gospel: How to Read and Apply the Bible","book_url":"/b/law-and-gospel-how-to-read-and-apply-the-bible-c-f-w-walther.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Exodus 20:9-10","kjv":"Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: But the seventh day is the sabbath of the Lord thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates:","text":"Six days shalt thou labour… the seventh is the sabbath. God gives rest and His Word.","try":"Plan to be in worship this week.","share":"Invite a coworker.","book":"christian-ethics-in-the-workplace-raymond-l-hilgert","book_title":"Christian ethics in the workplace","book_url":"/book.html?id=christian-ethics-in-the-workplace-raymond-l-hilgert"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Proverbs 25:17","kjv":"Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour’s house; lest he be weary of thee, and so hate thee.","text":"Withdraw thy foot from thy neighbour's house; respect boundaries. Love is wise.","try":"Respect a neighbor's privacy.","share":"Be a good presence.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"John 11:35","kjv":"Jesus wept.","text":"Jesus wept at Lazarus’ tomb, even though He was about to raise him. Your tears are not a failure of faith; Christ shares them. And He has promised the resurrection.","try":"Allow yourself to grieve.","share":"Weep with someone.","book":"coping-with-compassion-fatigue-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"Coping with compassion fatigue","book_url":"/b/coping-with-compassion-fatigue-concordia-publishing-house.html"}}},{"day":24,"reading":{"ref":"Romans 8:1","kjv":"There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.","note":"There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"James 1:19","kjv":"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:","text":"Swift to hear, slow to speak. Listening is love.","try":"Repeat back what she said before you answer.","share":"Listen to a coworker the same way.","book":"blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann","book_title":"Blessed is the man","book_url":"/book.html?id=blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann"},"wife":{"ref":"Romans 12:12","kjv":"Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;","text":"Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing instant in prayer. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Pray at three set times today.","share":"Share a prayer habit with a friend.","book":"quenched-donna-pyle","book_title":"Quenched","book_url":"/book.html?id=quenched-donna-pyle"},"parent":{"ref":"Philippians 4:8","kjv":"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.","text":"Whatsoever things are true, honest, lovely… think on these. Guard what fills your home.","try":"Play a hymn or Christian song at home.","share":"Share a family-friendly playlist.","book":"faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka","book_title":"Faithfully Parenting Teens","book_url":"/b/faithfully-parenting-teens-john-r-bucka.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Isaiah 40:8","kjv":"The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever.","text":"The word of our God shall stand for ever. Give grandchildren what lasts.","try":"Mark a favorite verse in a grandchild's Bible.","share":"Explain why it matters to you.","book":"family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher","book_title":"Family life series","book_url":"/b/family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher.html"},"child":{"ref":"Philippians 2:14","kjv":"Do all things without murmurings and disputings:","text":"Do all things without murmurings. Complaining hurts the home.","try":"Go a day without complaining.","share":"Invite a friend to try with you.","book":"things-i-see-at-baptism-julie-stiegemeyer","book_title":"Things I See at Baptism","book_url":"/b/things-i-see-at-baptism-julie-stiegemeyer.html"},"single":{"ref":"Philippians 1:6","kjv":"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:","text":"He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Rest in His work, not yours.","share":"Encourage someone discouraged.","book":"last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader","book_title":"Last summer at Eden","book_url":"/book.html?id=last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader"},"student":{"ref":"Isaiah 40:29","kjv":"He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.","text":"He gives power to the faint. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Rest in God after a long day.","share":"Comfort a tired friend.","book":"the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz","book_title":"The Hammer of God","book_url":"/b/the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Ephesians 4:28","kjv":"Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.","text":"Labour… that he may have to give to him that needeth. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Give to someone in need.","share":"Organize a team giving.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Matthew 25:40","kjv":"And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.","text":"Inasmuch as ye have done it unto the least of these… ye have done it unto me. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Serve someone overlooked.","share":"Invite others to serve.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"2 Corinthians 4:16-17","kjv":"For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory;","text":"Our light affliction worketh for us a far more exceeding weight of glory. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Look to the hope of the resurrection.","share":"Share that hope.","book":"out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf","book_title":"Out of the depths","book_url":"/book.html?id=out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf"}}},{"day":25,"reading":{"ref":"Romans 12:1","kjv":"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.","note":"Present your bodies a living sacrifice. Not to earn mercy, but because of God's mercies already given."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Joshua 24:15","kjv":"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.","text":"As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord. God gives you this place to lead in faith.","try":"Read the Small Catechism's Table of Duties with your family.","share":"Share Joshua 24:15 on your door or wall.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Psalm 68:6","kjv":"God setteth the solitary in families: he bringeth out those which are bound with chains: but the rebellious dwell in a dry land.","text":"God sets the solitary in families. Your home can be that family for others.","try":"Invite someone who is alone.","share":"Host a simple meal for a new family.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"parent":{"ref":"Proverbs 3:5-6","kjv":"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.","text":"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart. Your children are ultimately in His hands.","try":"Pray over a worry about your child.","share":"Pray for a friend's child by name.","book":"faithfully-parenting-preschoolers-john-r-bucka","book_title":"Faithfully parenting preschoolers","book_url":"/b/faithfully-parenting-preschoolers-john-r-bucka.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Colossians 4:2","kjv":"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;","text":"Continue in prayer. Your prayers are a ministry.","try":"Keep a prayer list for grandchildren.","share":"Tell them you pray for them.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"child":{"ref":"Psalm 133:1","kjv":"A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!","text":"How good and pleasant for brethren to dwell together in unity. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Play a game with a sibling.","share":"Invite a friend over.","book":"150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit","book_title":"150 Psalms for Teens","book_url":"/book.html?id=150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit"},"single":{"ref":"Acts 16:14-15","kjv":"And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul. And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.","text":"Lydia opened her home after her baptism. Singles serve powerfully.","try":"Offer your home for a study.","share":"Invite neighbors.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"Matthew 7:12","kjv":"Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets.","text":"Do unto others as you would have them do to you. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Treat a rival kindly.","share":"Stand up for someone.","book":"concordia-the-lutheran-confessions-paul-timothy-mccain-ed","book_title":"Concordia: The Lutheran Confessions","book_url":"/b/concordia-the-lutheran-confessions-paul-timothy-mccain-ed.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Proverbs 10:4","kjv":"He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.","text":"The hand of the diligent maketh rich. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Avoid procrastination on one task.","share":"Help someone who is behind.","book":"the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman","book_title":"The life you crave","book_url":"/book.html?id=the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Luke 14:13","kjv":"But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind:","text":"When thou makest a feast, call the poor. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Invite someone who can't repay.","share":"Share a meal.","book":"the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman","book_title":"The life you crave","book_url":"/book.html?id=the-life-you-crave-michael-w-newman"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Psalm 73:26","kjv":"My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion for ever.","text":"My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Pray when you feel you can't go on.","share":"Encourage someone at the end of their rope.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"}}},{"day":26,"reading":{"ref":"Hebrews 10:24-25","kjv":"And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.","note":"Do not neglect meeting together. God gathers His people around Word and Sacrament to strengthen them."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"2 Corinthians 12:9","kjv":"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.","text":"His grace is sufficient. Your weakness as a husband is where His strength shows.","try":"Confess your weakness to God, and receive His grace.","share":"Admit to a friend that you need Christ too.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Lamentations 3:22-23","kjv":"It is of the Lord’s mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.","text":"His mercies are new every morning. Yesterday's failures are forgiven.","try":"Start fresh with a morning prayer.","share":"Encourage a weary mom with this verse.","book":"godly-moms-45-two-to-three-minute-devotions-lenore-buth","book_title":"Godly Moms (45 two-to-three-minute devotions)","book_url":"/b/godly-moms-45-two-to-three-minute-devotions-lenore-buth.html"},"parent":{"ref":"Matthew 19:14","kjv":"But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.","text":"Of such is the kingdom of heaven. Children teach adults to receive.","try":"Let your child lead the table prayer.","share":"Invite a child to church with your family.","book":"bible-make-do-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do","book_url":"/b/bible-make-do-gillian-chapman.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Mark 10:16","kjv":"And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.","text":"Jesus took children in His arms and blessed them. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Hug a grandchild and bless them.","share":"Bless a neighbor's child.","book":"out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf","book_title":"Out of the depths","book_url":"/book.html?id=out-of-the-depths-richard-e-lauersdorf"},"child":{"ref":"1 John 4:19","kjv":"We love him, because he first loved us.","text":"We love him, because he first loved us. Love flows from His love.","try":"Thank God for your family.","share":"Tell a friend God loves them.","book":"bible-make-do-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do","book_url":"/b/bible-make-do-gillian-chapman.html"},"single":{"ref":"1 John 4:12","kjv":"No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and his love is perfected in us.","text":"If we love one another, God dwells in us. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Love someone practically.","share":"Serve a neighbor.","book":"grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig","book_title":"Grace upon Grace: Spirituality for Today","book_url":"/b/grace-upon-grace-spirituality-for-today-john-w-kleinig.html"},"student":{"ref":"John 8:32","kjv":"And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.","text":"The truth shall make you free. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Be honest on an assignment.","share":"Encourage honesty.","book":"lutheran-bible-companion-edward-engelbrecht","book_title":"Lutheran Bible companion","book_url":"/b/lutheran-bible-companion-edward-engelbrecht.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Acts 18:3","kjv":"And because he was of the same craft, he abode with them, and wrought: for by their occupation they were tentmakers.","text":"Paul worked as a tentmaker. Ordinary work and Gospel go together.","try":"See your work as a calling.","share":"Share your faith naturally.","book":"pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Pastoral care under the cross","book_url":"/book.html?id=pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer"},"neighbor":{"ref":"1 John 3:18","kjv":"My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.","text":"Let us not love in word, but in deed and in truth. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Do a practical act of love.","share":"Explain your hope if asked.","book":"god-s-word-for-today-concordia-publishing-house","book_title":"God's Word for Today","book_url":"/b/god-s-word-for-today-concordia-publishing-house.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Matthew 6:34","kjv":"Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.","text":"Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Focus on today only.","share":"Pray for tomorrow and let it go.","book":"family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher","book_title":"Family life series","book_url":"/b/family-life-series-raymond-w-schumacher.html"}}},{"day":27,"reading":{"ref":"Matthew 5:16","kjv":"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.","note":"Let your light shine so others see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Ephesians 6:4","kjv":"And, ye fathers, provoke not your children to wrath: but bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.","text":"Do not provoke your children. A husband and father leads gently, with the Word.","try":"Bless each child with the sign of the cross tonight.","share":"Teach a child a Bible verse.","book":"marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz","book_title":"Marriage and family","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz"},"wife":{"ref":"Colossians 3:23","kjv":"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;","text":"Whatever you do, do it heartily as to the Lord. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Do one chore with thanks to God.","share":"Teach children that chores serve God and neighbor.","book":"unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields","book_title":"Unity in Marriage","book_url":"/book.html?id=unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields"},"parent":{"ref":"Acts 2:39","kjv":"For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.","text":"The promise is unto you, and to your children. God's promise in Baptism includes them.","try":"Show your child their baptism photo.","share":"Invite a family to a baptism at church.","book":"love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss","book_title":"Love, sex, and God","book_url":"/b/love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 23:6","kjv":"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever.","text":"Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Count God's mercies aloud.","share":"Share Psalm 23 at the table.","book":"every-day-is-saturday-l-james-harvey","book_title":"Every day is Saturday","book_url":"/book.html?id=every-day-is-saturday-l-james-harvey"},"child":{"ref":"Proverbs 15:20","kjv":"A wise son maketh a glad father: but a foolish man despiseth his mother.","text":"A wise son makes a glad father. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Make a wise choice today.","share":"Help a friend choose wisely.","book":"love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss","book_title":"Love, sex, and God","book_url":"/b/love-sex-and-god-bill-ameiss.html"},"single":{"ref":"Psalm 84:11","kjv":"For the Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.","text":"No good thing will he withhold from them that walk uprightly. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Trust God's goodness.","share":"Tell a friend how God provided.","book":"the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz","book_title":"The Hammer of God","book_url":"/b/the-hammer-of-god-bo-giertz.html"},"student":{"ref":"Proverbs 2:6","kjv":"For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.","text":"The Lord gives wisdom. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Pray for understanding.","share":"Share study tips.","book":"150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit","book_title":"150 Psalms for Teens","book_url":"/book.html?id=150-psalms-for-teens-eldon-weisheit"},"worker":{"ref":"Colossians 3:17","kjv":"And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.","text":"Do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Give thanks during a break.","share":"Thank a coworker.","book":"bible-make-do-book-four-gillian-chapman","book_title":"Bible Make & Do, Book Four","book_url":"/book.html?id=bible-make-do-book-four-gillian-chapman"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Acts 2:46-47","kjv":"And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart, Praising God, and having favour with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.","text":"They ate with gladness and the Lord added to the church. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Share a meal with friends.","share":"Pray together.","book":"where-do-babies-come-from-ruth-s-hummel","book_title":"Where do babies come from?","book_url":"/b/where-do-babies-come-from-ruth-s-hummel.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Isaiah 41:10","kjv":"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.","text":"Fear thou not; I will strengthen thee. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Pray against fear.","share":"Comfort a fearful loved one.","book":"pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Pastoral care under the cross","book_url":"/book.html?id=pastoral-care-under-the-cross-richard-c-eyer"}}},{"day":28,"reading":{"ref":"1 Peter 3:15","kjv":"But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear:","note":"Always be ready to give an answer for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Proverbs 5:18","kjv":"Let thy fountain be blessed: and rejoice with the wife of thy youth.","text":"Rejoice with the wife of your youth. Delight in her.","try":"Tell her one thing you love about her.","share":"Celebrate your anniversary in church with thanks.","book":"marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Marriage Is Like Dancing","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer"},"wife":{"ref":"Isaiah 40:31","kjv":"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.","text":"They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Rest for ten minutes with Scripture.","share":"Share Isaiah 40:31 with a tired friend.","book":"holding-hands-catherine-duerr","book_title":"Holding hands","book_url":"/book.html?id=holding-hands-catherine-duerr"},"parent":{"ref":"Psalm 34:11","kjv":"Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord.","text":"Come, ye children, hearken unto me: I will teach you the fear of the Lord. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Memorize a verse together.","share":"Teach a Sunday school class once.","book":"why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene","book_title":"Why boys & girls are different","book_url":"/b/why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Hebrews 11:13","kjv":"These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off, and were persuaded of them, and embraced them, and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth.","text":"These all died in faith. You stand in a long line of the faithful.","try":"Remember a faithful saint who taught you.","share":"Tell grandchildren about them.","book":"little-visits-with-god-allan-hart-jahsmann","book_title":"Little visits with God","book_url":"/book.html?id=little-visits-with-god-allan-hart-jahsmann"},"child":{"ref":"Matthew 5:9","kjv":"Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.","text":"Blessed are the peacemakers. Bring peace at home.","try":"Stop an argument kindly.","share":"Be a peacemaker at school.","book":"why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene","book_title":"Why boys & girls are different","book_url":"/b/why-boys-girls-are-different-carol-greene.html"},"single":{"ref":"Matthew 11:28","kjv":"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.","text":"Come unto me, and I will give you rest. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Rest on the Sabbath.","share":"Invite someone to worship.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"Psalm 46:10","kjv":"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth.","text":"Be still, and know that I am God. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Take five quiet minutes.","share":"Invite a friend to pray.","book":"reading-romans-with-luther-r-j-grunewald","book_title":"Reading Romans with Luther","book_url":"/book.html?id=reading-romans-with-luther-r-j-grunewald"},"worker":{"ref":"Galatians 6:9","kjv":"And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.","text":"Be not weary in well doing. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Persevere through a hard task.","share":"Encourage a weary coworker.","book":"little-hands-fold-and-do-carla-williams","book_title":"Little Hands Fold and Do","book_url":"/book.html?id=little-hands-fold-and-do-carla-williams"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Colossians 4:5-6","kjv":"Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.","text":"Walk in wisdom toward them that are without; let your speech be with grace. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Have a gracious conversation about faith.","share":"Listen first.","book":"the-fabricated-luther-uwe-siemon-netto","book_title":"The fabricated Luther","book_url":"/b/the-fabricated-luther-uwe-siemon-netto.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Revelation 21:4","kjv":"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.","text":"God shall wipe away all tears. There will be an end to pain.","try":"Read Revelation 21 to your loved one.","share":"Share it with a grieving friend.","book":"is-there-really-life-after-death-james-n-watkins","book_title":"Is There Really Life After Death?","book_url":"/book.html?id=is-there-really-life-after-death-james-n-watkins"}}},{"day":29,"reading":{"ref":"2 Corinthians 5:17","kjv":"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.","note":"If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature. The old has passed away."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Luke 17:4","kjv":"And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and seven times in a day turn again to thee, saying, I repent; thou shalt forgive him.","text":"Forgive seven times. Christ forgives you more than that.","try":"Forgive something small without bringing it up again.","share":"Teach forgiveness by speaking it: “I forgive you.”","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"wife":{"ref":"Proverbs 31:25","kjv":"Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.","text":"Strength and honour are her clothing; she shall rejoice in time to come. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Face tomorrow's worry with prayer.","share":"Encourage another woman facing uncertainty.","book":"marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz","book_title":"Marriage and family","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-and-family-gregory-seltz"},"parent":{"ref":"1 Thessalonians 5:17","kjv":"Pray without ceasing.","text":"Pray without ceasing. Children learn to pray by hearing you.","try":"Pray out loud in front of your kids.","share":"Pray for your kids' teachers.","book":"the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren","book_title":"The little boat that almost sank","book_url":"/b/the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"Psalm 145:18","kjv":"The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth.","text":"The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon him. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Call on Him in loneliness.","share":"Call a lonely friend.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"},"child":{"ref":"Luke 2:49","kjv":"And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father’s business?","text":"Jesus was in His Father's house. Church is our Father's house too.","try":"Go to church gladly.","share":"Invite a friend.","book":"the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren","book_title":"The little boat that almost sank","book_url":"/b/the-little-boat-that-almost-sank-mary-warren.html"},"single":{"ref":"2 Corinthians 5:17","kjv":"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.","text":"You are a new creature in Christ. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Remember your Baptism.","share":"Share the Gospel simply.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"student":{"ref":"1 John 1:9","kjv":"If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.","text":"He is faithful to forgive. Failure isn't final.","try":"Confess a failure and receive forgiveness.","share":"Encourage a friend who failed.","book":"bible-bible","book_title":"Bible","book_url":"/b/bible-bible.html"},"worker":{"ref":"1 Corinthians 15:58","kjv":"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.","text":"Your labour is not in vain in the Lord. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Remember: your work matters to God.","share":"Tell a coworker their work matters.","book":"christ-s-kids-create-vicki-boston","book_title":"Christ's kids create!","book_url":"/book.html?id=christ-s-kids-create-vicki-boston"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Isaiah 58:7","kjv":"Is it not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?","text":"Deal thy bread to the hungry. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Give to a local need.","share":"Invite a friend to join.","book":"on-the-nature-of-theology-and-holy-scripture-johann-gerhard","book_title":"On the nature of theology and Holy Scripture","book_url":"/b/on-the-nature-of-theology-and-holy-scripture-johann-gerhard.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Psalm 4:8","kjv":"I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.","text":"I will lay me down in peace, and sleep. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Pray before sleep.","share":"Pray this with your loved one.","book":"what-to-say-carol-fredericks-ebeling","book_title":"What to Say","book_url":"/book.html?id=what-to-say-carol-fredericks-ebeling"}}},{"day":30,"reading":{"ref":"John 11:25","kjv":"Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live:","note":"Jesus is the resurrection and the life. Every calling ends, but His life does not."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Romans 15:7","kjv":"Wherefore receive ye one another, as Christ also received us to the glory of God.","text":"Receive one another as Christ received you. Welcome her as Christ welcomes you.","try":"Greet her warmly when you come home.","share":"Make your home a welcoming place for neighbors.","book":"unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields","book_title":"Unity in Marriage","book_url":"/book.html?id=unity-in-marriage-wilbert-j-fields"},"wife":{"ref":"John 2:5","kjv":"His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.","text":"Mary said, “Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.” Point your home to Jesus' word.","try":"Read a Gospel passage with your family.","share":"Invite a friend to Bible study.","book":"marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer","book_title":"Marriage Is Like Dancing","book_url":"/book.html?id=marriage-is-like-dancing-richard-c-eyer"},"parent":{"ref":"2 Corinthians 12:9","kjv":"And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.","text":"His grace is sufficient for imperfect parents. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Confess one parenting failure to God, and receive forgiveness.","share":"Tell another parent: “I fail too; Christ forgives.”","book":"friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson","book_title":"Friendly differences","book_url":"/b/friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"John 14:2","kjv":"In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.","text":"In my Father's house are many mansions. Heaven is your home.","try":"Talk about heaven gently with a grandchild.","share":"Comfort a grieving friend with John 14.","book":"the-thankful-leper-cynthia-a-hinkle","book_title":"The thankful leper","book_url":"/b/the-thankful-leper-cynthia-a-hinkle.html"},"child":{"ref":"Psalm 4:8","kjv":"I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.","text":"I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety. This is not a ladder to climb to God. God has come down to you in Christ, and now He serves your neighbor through you.","try":"Pray before bed.","share":"Teach a younger sibling a bedtime prayer.","book":"friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson","book_title":"Friendly differences","book_url":"/b/friendly-differences-mona-gansberg-hodgson.html"},"single":{"ref":"Romans 8:38-39","kjv":"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.","text":"Nothing can separate you from God's love. God's Law shows where we fall short; His Gospel declares, “Your sins are forgiven,” and sends you back into your calling in peace.","try":"Pray Romans 8:38-39.","share":"Text it to a hurting friend.","book":"last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader","book_title":"Last summer at Eden","book_url":"/book.html?id=last-summer-at-eden-christina-hergenrader"},"student":{"ref":"Joshua 1:9","kjv":"Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.","text":"Be strong and of a good courage; the Lord is with thee. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Face one fear today.","share":"Encourage a nervous friend.","book":"psalms-now-leslie-f-brandt","book_title":"Psalms Now","book_url":"/b/psalms-now-leslie-f-brandt.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Matthew 6:34","kjv":"Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.","text":"Take no thought for the morrow. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Leave tomorrow's worries with God.","share":"Pray for an anxious coworker.","book":"praise-god-with-banners-cph-teaching-resource-anita-reith-stohs","book_title":"Praise God With Banners (CPH Teaching Resource)","book_url":"/book.html?id=praise-god-with-banners-cph-teaching-resource-anita-reith-stohs"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Matthew 28:19-20","kjv":"Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.","text":"Go… teach… baptize. The Great Commission happens through ordinary friendships and the Church's Word and Sacraments.","try":"Pray for one friend to come to faith.","share":"Invite them to a baptism or service.","book":"bishop-of-the-resistance-a-life-of-eivind-berggrav-bishop-of-oslo-norw","book_title":"Bishop of the Resistance: A Life of Eivind Berggrav, Bishop of Oslo, Norway","book_url":"/b/bishop-of-the-resistance-a-life-of-eivind-berggrav-bishop-of-oslo-norw.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"John 14:27","kjv":"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.","text":"Peace I leave with you. Christ's peace is for caregivers too.","try":"Sit quietly with Jesus' words.","share":"Share His peace.","book":"christian-concepts-for-care-david-j-ludwig","book_title":"Christian concepts for care","book_url":"/book.html?id=christian-concepts-for-care-david-j-ludwig"}}},{"day":31,"reading":{"ref":"Revelation 21:5","kjv":"And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.","note":"“Behold, I make all things new.” Christ's last word over your life is renewal."},"callings":{"husband":{"ref":"Psalm 90:17","kjv":"And let the beauty of the Lord our God be upon us: and establish thou the work of our hands upon us; yea, the work of our hands establish thou it.","text":"Establish the work of our hands. Your love for your wife is a work God establishes.","try":"End the day with prayer together.","share":"Pray for the marriages in your congregation.","book":"blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann","book_title":"Blessed is the man","book_url":"/book.html?id=blessed-is-the-man-joel-d-biermann"},"wife":{"ref":"Psalm 16:6","kjv":"The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage.","text":"The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places. Give thanks for your calling.","try":"Thank God for your marriage.","share":"Tell your children God's goodness to your family.","book":"treasury-of-daily-prayer","book_title":"Treasury of Daily Prayer","book_url":"/b/treasury-of-daily-prayer.html"},"parent":{"ref":"Numbers 6:24-26","kjv":"The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.","text":"The Lord bless thee and keep thee. Speak God's blessing over your children.","try":"Bless each child tonight with Numbers 6:24-26.","share":"Teach this blessing to another family.","book":"luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids","book_title":"Luther's Small Catechism for Kids","book_url":"/b/luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids.html"},"grandparent":{"ref":"2 Timothy 4:7","kjv":"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:","text":"I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith. Christ keeps you to the end.","try":"Thank God for keeping you in faith.","share":"Encourage a younger believer to keep on.","book":"queen-who-saved-her-people-book-of-esther-for-children-carol-greene","book_title":"Queen Who Saved Her People: Book of Esther for children","book_url":"/b/queen-who-saved-her-people-book-of-esther-for-children-carol-greene.html"},"child":{"ref":"Isaiah 43:1","kjv":"But now thus saith the Lord that created thee, O Jacob, and he that formed thee, O Israel, Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine.","text":"I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. You were named in Baptism.","try":"Say: “I am baptized!”","share":"Remind a friend they belong to God.","book":"luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids","book_title":"Luther's Small Catechism for Kids","book_url":"/b/luther-s-small-catechism-for-kids.html"},"single":{"ref":"Isaiah 41:10","kjv":"Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.","text":"Fear thou not; for I am with thee. Where you have fallen short in this calling, Christ has not; for His sake you are forgiven.","try":"Face one fear in prayer.","share":"Encourage a fearful friend.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"student":{"ref":"Numbers 6:24","kjv":"The Lord bless thee, and keep thee:","text":"The Lord bless thee, and keep thee. You don't carry this calling alone: Christ, who fulfilled every command for you, goes with you today.","try":"Receive God's blessing.","share":"Bless a friend.","book":"haggai-zechariah-malachi-eric-s-hartzell","book_title":"Haggai, Zechariah, Malachi","book_url":"/b/haggai-zechariah-malachi-eric-s-hartzell.html"},"worker":{"ref":"Psalm 121:8","kjv":"The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore.","text":"The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in. Remember your Baptism: you are God's child before you are anything else, and He will supply what this day needs.","try":"Pray as you leave home.","share":"Bless your family as you go.","book":"god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"God at Work: Your Christian Vocation in All of Life","book_url":"/b/god-at-work-your-christian-vocation-in-all-of-life-gene-edward-veith.html"},"neighbor":{"ref":"Psalm 133:1","kjv":"A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!","text":"How good and pleasant it is to dwell together in unity. The Holy Spirit works through this Word to strengthen your faith and to serve others through you.","try":"Make peace with someone.","share":"Host a neighborhood gathering.","book":"the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith","book_title":"The Spirituality of the Cross","book_url":"/b/the-spirituality-of-the-cross-gene-edward-veith.html"},"caregiver":{"ref":"Numbers 6:24-26","kjv":"The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.","text":"The Lord bless thee, and keep thee. Your failures here are covered by Christ's cross, and His Supper strengthens you to begin again.","try":"Bless your loved one with these words tonight.","share":"Teach the blessing to family.","book":"dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil","book_title":"Dying to live","book_url":"/b/dying-to-live-harold-l-senkbeil.html"}}}]}