Listen to Devotion

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the rushing of a violent wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw divided tongues that were like fire resting on each one of them. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, since the Spirit was giving them the ability to speak fluently. Acts 2:1-4 (EHV)

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

When missionaries travel to different countries far away to spread God’s Word, they often need to learn a new language. That can be really hard! Imagine trying to learn to speak Chinese, Spanish, or Swahili! It takes lots of time, practice, and patience. Have you ever tried to learn words from another language? Was it easy or hard? Being able to speak another language is a special gift from God.

Long ago, an amazing miracle happened in the city of Jerusalem. People from different nations and languages gathered for a celebration of the spring harvest and to give offerings to the Lord. Suddenly, something incredible happened! The Bible says there was a sound like a powerful rushing wind that came from heaven, and what looked like little flames of fire rested on the believers in the house. These were miraculous signs from God. Something spectacular was about to happen!

Then the Holy Spirit came upon Jesus’ followers just as Jesus promised. Immediately—without classes, homework, or studying—they could speak different languages. The people visiting Jerusalem from all different nations could hear and understand God’s Word in their own language.

Can you imagine hearing someone talk but not understanding a single word? That would make it hard to learn about Jesus. But God wanted everyone there to hear the good news clearly. And that’s the work of the Holy Spirit! He gave the disciples the miracle of speaking many languages. Because of this miracle, thousands of people heard about Jesus that day. About 3,000 people believed in Jesus and became part of God’s family. Wow! That was a huge miracle of faith.

God still works today! Maybe we don’t suddenly speak new languages like the disciples did, but God still helps missionaries, pastors, teachers, parents, and YOU share his Word with others. Most importantly, the Holy Spirit has worked the miracle of faith in your heart too. Every time someone learns about Jesus and believes in him, that is a miracle from God!

O Lord God of all nations, send your Holy Spirit to work in us that our faith is strengthened and help us speak your Word faithfully and boldly. Work in the hearts of others so they believe in you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

The questions below are to help families discuss this devotion. The questions are divided by age group as suggestions, but anyone could reflect on any of the questions as they desire.

Questions for Younger Children

Questions for Elementary Age Children

Questions for Middle School and Above

Download Family Devotions