SUNDAY FAMILY DEVOTIONAL

Today looks a little different than a normal Sunday, and that’s okay. Even when plans change, God is still with us. In the Bible, families often learned about God not only in big gatherings, but at home—around tables, during ordinary moments, and in unexpected situations. Today, we’re going to spend a few minutes together as a family learning from the story of Nehemiah and seeing how God builds faith when we trust Him together. 

Nehemiah lived during a time when the walls of Jerusalem were broken down. Those walls weren’t just stones—they represented safety, protection, and peace for families living inside the city. God called Nehemiah to help rebuild the wall, and families worked side by side to do it.

The work wasn’t easy. There were distractions, fear, and moments when Nehemiah had to slow things down to protect the people. But through it all, God was with them, guiding them and giving them strength.

When Nehemiah and the families started rebuilding the wall, things didn’t go exactly as planned.

Some days the work went well. Other days, people felt afraid. There were threats, distractions, and moments when Nehemiah had to stop the work and remind everyone who was really in control.

Nehemiah didn’t tell the people to be brave on their own.
 He didn’t tell them to pretend nothing was wrong.
Instead, he reminded them of something very important:

That’s why Nehemiah said, “Remember the Lord, great and awesome.”
 He wanted the people—especially the families—to lift their eyes off the wall and remember God.

Sometimes we think faith means never changing plans.
 But Nehemiah teaches us that faith also means listening to God and caring for people.

Nehemiah prayed.
 Nehemiah planned.
 Nehemiah protected the people.

That’s what good leaders do—and that’s what loving families do too.

When things feel uncertain, we remember:

• God sees us
  
  
• God protects us
  
  
• God is still working
  
  

Even when plans change.
Just like the wall protected the city, God gives us homes, parents, and church families to help protect our hearts and our lives.
And just like God helped the people rebuild the wall together, He helps families grow stronger when they trust Him together.
So today, even though we aren’t gathered at church, we are still doing God’s work.
We are learning.
 We are praying.
 We are building faith—right here at home.

Let kids answer first if they want.

• Why do you think God cared about rebuilding the wall?
• What are some things that help our family feel safe?
• What does it mean to trust God when plans change?
• How can we help each other today while we’re home?

For younger kids:
Ask: “Who helps keep you safe?”
Then explain: God uses parents, homes, and church to care for us.

Say this out loud:

“Nehemiah taught the people that trusting God doesn’t mean ignoring danger. It means praying, being wise, and caring for one another.”

Explain:

• God loves faith and wisdom
• God cares about safety
• God builds families strong when they work together

This helps kids learn that wisdom is part of faith.

Invite everyone to sit quietly for a moment.
“God, thank You for our home.
Thank You for warmth, food, and being together today.
Just like You helped Nehemiah protect the people,
please watch over our family and our church family.
Help us be patient, kind, and thankful today.
We trust You. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
Let kids add one sentence prayers if they want.

Option 1: Build
Use blocks, LEGOs, pillows, or books.
As you build, say:
“God is building our family strong.”
Ask:

• What helps make a family strong?
  (Love, prayer, kindness, forgiveness)

Option 2: Draw
Draw a wall with bricks.
On each brick write or draw:

• Something you’re thankful for
• Someone you want God to protect
• One way you can help today

Option 3: Serve
Choose one small act of service:

• Help clean up
• Make someone a drink
• Check on a neighbor by text or prayer

Explain:
“When we help each other, we’re building God’s way.”