Parents and Kids Daily Devotional "Abundant Joy"Sample

Ever since we were little, we have been taught to love and respect others. We were also taught to do good to others, to help one another, to show care, etc. Today’s verse takes us to another level. It says to love your neighbor as yourself, which means we have to be able to love ourselves before we can do the same to others.

Each person is created uniquely by God. Each person has their own strengths, talents, and potential built in them that are different from the next person. No other person is the same as us. Knowing this, shouldn’t we love ourselves even more?

One of the reasons humans can’t love themselves is because we focus on our weaknesses and become envious of another’s strengths. Others’ opinions play a role too as they point out our shortcomings. Little by little, those opinions make their tent in our hearts and mind, clouding our judgment. We no longer are able to see the good in ourselves and begin to hate ourselves. Usually, it is easier for someone to list down his/her 3 weaknesses than strengths.

Proverbs 4:23 (NIV) says, “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”

When we are thankful and we cherish ourselves – the person that God has created wonderfully, joy will arise. This joy shall overflow from our hearts into our lives and will influence how we conduct our daily life, as well as our relationship with others.

Devotion for Parents
Have you ever thought of changing something about yourself? Why?

Is it because of other people’s opinions that make you see yourself in a negative light?

Devotion for Kids
How do you feel when your friends mock you? Do you know that God created you so special and wonderful? Today, think about the strength or specialty that God has given to you.

Family Devotion Time
Give words of praise to each family member, emphasizing their strengths.

Then, pray to God giving thanks for all the strengths and weaknesses you may have.