A Book Review of “Jesus Today – Devotions for Kids”
Our eleven-year-old son enjoys reading “Jesus Today – Devotions for Kids” during his morning devotion time. This is an adaptation of Sarah Young’s ECPA 2013 Christian Book of the Year, Jesus Today. Young writes as if Jesus is talking to the reader.
Published by Tommy Nelson, this 368-page book contains 150 devotions. Approximately 200 words in length, each devotion is presented on the left page followed by three or four corresponding scriptures on the right page.
Tama Fortner
I have to give credit to the co-author, Tama Fortner who adapted Young’s book for children. She does an excellent job presenting the devotions in a simple and easy-to-understand manner. Yet, the devotions are not watered down. They are quite meaty.
A Sample from Jesus Today Devotions for Kids
Here is an excerpt from devotion #141, “Leave Room for Mystery:”
“… My ways are often a mystery to you—like why bad things happen to good people, or good things happen to bad people. You wish you could always know what I’m thinking, but your knowledge only goes so far.”
“… When there is something you can’t make sense of, trust Me—and trust that there are some things too wonderful for you to know.”
This devotion is followed by 1 Timothy 3:16, Job 1:20-22, and Job 42:3. These are wonderful things to ponder and discuss with your child.
As parents and guardians read these devotionals to children, there will be spiritual refreshment for all. There are numerous reminders of Jesus’ love, power, and peace. Who doesn’t need those?
Other Things to Know about Jesus Today – Devotions for Kids
Occasionally, there are other inspirational quotes presented in the book like this one:
“God loves
each of us
as if there
were only
one of us.”
-Augustine
Most of the scriptures are from the International Children’s Bible. A few are from other versions, like the Amplified Bible and the NIV Bible. Additionally, there’s a handy, scripture index included at the end of the book.
Also, I’m glad the cover of “Jesus Today for Kids” is blue. The yellow bird adds a cheery note to it. Boys and girls will appreciate the choice of colors and art. Parents will appreciate the durability of the hardcover.
Recommendation
I recommend this book to use during family devotion time or for a child’s personal quiet time. I recommend using it in addition to reading the Bible, not as a replacement for it. It’s recommended for ages six to ten, but just like many of Tama Fortner’s other books, any age will benefit from hearing this book read.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers <http://booklookbloggers.com> book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
