Devotional : The Gift of God’s Word (The Scriptures Inspired)

Why is the Bible considered the inspired Word of God for families today? Because Scripture is 'God-breathed' and life-giving—carrying the Creator’s wisdom to guide, steady, and equip our families for every good work, right here in our Memphis community and beyond.

A Message from FA Memphis

Hey family! We are so glad you’re here. Whether you’re reading this over a lukewarm cup of coffee while the kids hunt for matching socks, or you’ve finally found a quiet moment after bedtime, know that you are seen and loved. Today, we’re diving into the very first Fundamental Truth of the Assemblies of God: The Scriptures Inspired. It sounds like a big, heavy theological term, doesn’t it? But really, it’s just a fancy way of saying that God has given us a beautiful, living love letter to help us find our way home.

The Scripture

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (NIV)

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work."

Reflection: The Breath that Built the World

Have you ever stopped to think about breath? It’s so quiet, so constant, that we hardly notice it until we’re out of it: like after chasing a toddler through the grocery store or trying to inflate a dozen birthday balloons.

When the Bible says that Scripture is "God-breathed," it’s using a word that is absolutely magical. In the original language, it’s theopneustos. It means that these words aren't just ink on paper; they carry the very life-force of the Creator. Just as God breathed life into the first man in a garden long ago, He breathes His heart, His wisdom, and His character into these pages.

For us parents, this is the best news ever.

We often feel like we’re "winging it." We look for manuals on how to handle the "terrible twos," the "threenage" years, or the complex emotions of a pre-teen. We scroll through blogs and listen to podcasts, hoping for a glimmer of direction. But God, in His immense kindness, didn't leave us to guess. He gave us the Gift of His Word.

Think of the Bible not as a rulebook meant to catch you doing something wrong, but as a lantern on a dark path. It’s warm. It’s glowing. It’s safe. It’s there to show us where to step so we don’t stub our toes on the hard things of life.

When we read the Word with our children, we aren't just reading a history book. We are opening a window and letting the fresh air of Heaven blow into our living rooms. We are showing them that the same God who spoke the stars into space has spoken words directly to them.

His Word is "profitable." That means it’s actually useful! It helps us teach our kids kindness when they want to be selfish. It helps us correct them with grace when they’ve wandered off the path. And most importantly, it trains us: parents and kids alike: to live lives that look like Jesus.

The Story: The Lantern in the Hallway

Once upon a time, in a house that looked very much like yours, lived a little girl named Mia. Mia’s house was full of noise, laughter, and sometimes, a little bit of "I don’t know what to do" feelings.

One evening, the power went out. The house became very, very dark. Mia’s toys looked like shadows, and the hallway felt like a long, mysterious tunnel. Mia felt a tiny bit of fear prickle at her heart.

But then, she saw a soft glow. Her dad was coming down the hall carrying an old, warm lantern. The light danced off the walls, and suddenly, the shadows didn't look scary anymore. They just looked like toys again.

"Follow the light, Mia," her dad said with a smile.

As they walked toward the kitchen, Mia realized that as long as she stayed near the lantern, she knew exactly where to put her feet. She didn't trip over the dog’s bone or bump into the doorframe.

The Bible is just like that lantern. The world can sometimes feel a little dark or confusing. We might not know how to be a good friend, or how to be brave when we’re scared. But when we open God’s Word, it’s like turning on that lantern. It doesn’t just show us the way; it makes us feel safe because we know the One who is holding the light.

Action: The Word at the Center

This week, let’s try a "Hands-On Faith" moment. It’s simple, low-cost, and high-impact!

The Central Bible:

Find a central spot in your home: maybe the dining table, a coffee table, or a shelf in the entryway. Place your family Bible there, open to a beautiful passage (like Psalm 23 or the 2 Timothy passage we read today).

Whenever you walk past it, let it be a reminder that God’s breath is in your home. You might even place a small, battery-operated tea light next to it to represent the "lamp unto our feet." Tell the kids, "Whenever we see this light, we remember that God’s Word shows us the way!"

A Heartfelt Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the gift of Your Word. Thank You that You didn't leave us in the dark, but You gave us a lantern to guide our family. Help us to hear Your breath in these pages. When we are tired, give us strength through Your promises. When we are confused, give us wisdom through Your truth. Let our home be a place where Your Word is loved and lived out every single day. We love You, Lord. Amen.

Family Question

For the Kids: "If you could ask God to tell you one thing through His Word today, what would it be? Is there something you’re wondering about or a way you need help being brave?"

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Supplemental Materials

Scripture Memory Cards (Printable Style)

To use: Imagine these in a beautiful watercolor border with charcoal-etched stars.

Card 1

• Verse: "All Scripture is God-breathed..." – 2 Timothy 3:16

• Key Truth: God’s words give us life!

• Signature: ____________________

Card 2

• Verse: "Your word is a lamp for my feet..." – Psalm 119:105

• Key Truth: The Bible shows me where to go.

• 
  

• Signature: ____________________

Card 3

• Verse: "Every word of God is flawless..." – Proverbs 30:5

• Key Truth: I can trust everything God says.

• Signature: ____________________

Card 4

• Verse: "But the word of our God endures forever." – Isaiah 40:8

• Key Truth: God’s Word never gets old or goes away.

• Signature: ____________________

Parent Discussion Guide

Heart of the Story: The Bible isn’t just an ancient book; it is the inspired, living communication of God to His children. Understanding that it is "God-breathed" helps children feel the intimacy of God’s voice.

Theological Roots: Assemblies of God Fundamental Truth #1: The Scriptures Inspired. We believe the Bible is the authoritative rule of faith and conduct.

Discussion Questions:

• Ages 3–6: "Does God talk to us? Yes! He talks to us through the Bible. How does it feel to know God wrote a book just for you?"

• Ages 7–9: "Why do you think Paul used the word 'breathed' to describe the Bible? What happens to a balloon when you breathe into it? It changes! God’s Word changes us too."

• Ages 10–12: "The verse says the Word is for 'training in righteousness.' What does 'training' look like in sports or music? How is reading the Bible like training for your heart and mind?"

Hands-On Faith: Watercolor Lanterns

Items needed: A glass jar (or clear plastic cup), tissue paper (pastel colors), watered-down glue, and a battery-operated candle.

The Activity: Tear the tissue paper into small pieces and glue them all over the outside of the jar. Once it dries, place the candle inside.

Spiritual Connection Script: "As we glue these pieces together, notice how the light shines through the colors. This jar is like us, and the light inside is like God’s Word. When we fill our hearts with His Truth, we start to glow with His love, and we can help show the way for others too!"

Boundless Online Church An outreach ministry of First Assembly Memphis www.boundlessonlinechurch.org www.famemphis.org

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