Keys For Kids Ministries Podcast: Recent Episodes
Keys For Kids Ministries
Keys For Kids Ministries is a children's ministry organization, offering Keys for Kids, Down Gilead Lane, and much more.
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:9-16
Rylee leaned back to see the top of the huge saguaro cactus next to her. Its spiny arms reached out and up toward the sky. "With so many big arms, this thing should be holding something. Try sitting on one of its arms, Easton," Rylee said with a grin.
"No way!" said Easton. "I'm not sitting on those prickly things!"
"Those arms," said Dad, "are holding what is probably the most valuable thing in the entire region."
"And I know what it is," Easton said. "Water! Cactus plants can live in the dry, hot desert by storing water inside their trunk and arms."
"That can't be right," said Rylee, looking around at the sand and rocks. They extended as far as she could see. "There's no water here!"
"Easton is right," said Dad. "Cactus roots don't go very deep into the earth. Instead, they go down only about three feet and then spread out about a hundred feet in all directions. The spread-out roots draw in every drop of rain, sending it to a hidden storage area in the arms and trunk of the cactus. That inner water supply is what keeps this cactus alive and growing. These big fellas can soak up as much as two hundred gallons of water--enough to last them a whole year!"
"Yeah, that's why they're pleated like an accordion," Easton said, eager to show his knowledge. "The pleats expand as the spongy material inside absorbs water."
"That's incredible!" said Rylee. "Well, Mr. Cactus, I can see you're a pretty smart guy!"
Dad smiled. "One with a good lesson for us about the importance of storing things."
"About storing water?" asked Easton. "I don't really mind carrying a water bottle--and I like the size of my arms the way they are!"
Dad laughed. "I wasn't thinking of your arms, Easton. Let's try your heart! I hope both of you will store God's Word in your heart and mind. Then when things get difficult, you can draw from those words of hope, comfort, and guidance. Knowing God's Word helps us remember what Jesus has done for us and that He's always with us. Like water in a dry desert, it will nourish you and help you grow in your relationship with Him."
–Trudy Vander Veen
How About You?
Have you been growing spiritually? Are you storing God's Word in your heart by reading the Bible and memorizing verses? Storing God's Word in your heart will help you understand how much Jesus loves you and who you are in Him. Read and study it so He can use it to guide you in your life, comfort you in hard times, and remind you of His promises.
Today's Key Verse:
Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Soak up God's Word
Bible Reading: Revelation 7:9-12
"I can't even understand what they're saying," Ezra said as he and his family entered the church building. His family's car had broken down just over the Canadian border, so they now had to go to church at a place in Quebec, Canada, that his dad had heard about. Everything about the church seemed different to Ezra--the language most of all.
When everyone started singing hymns, Ezra's dad passed him a book that said Cantiques on the front. "It's a hymnbook," Dad said. He flipped to the correct page and pointed to a line of words in the song. Ezra tried to follow along with the French song, but none of the words made any sense to him.
Later, after church was over, Ezra noticed someone waving to him as he and his family left. He waved back, and his dad asked, "Who's that?"
"Oh, that's Jacque," Ezra explained. "I met him in Sunday school. He helped me understand the French on the papers the teacher handed out whenever there wasn't English underneath it."
"I see," his dad said. "I suppose it was a bit confusing for you in the church service and in Sunday school."
"You can say that again," Ezra replied.
"Going to church in a different country is an interesting experience, isn't it?" said Dad. "Though it can be confusing when things are different from what we're used to or we don't understand what's being said, it's good for us to worship God with Christians from other places in the world. We're all part of God's church and are brothers and sisters in Christ, who saved us by dying for our sins. We worship God in the same way, just in different places and languages." Dad smiled. "In fact, the apostle John wrote in the book of Revelation that there will one day be countless people of every nation, tribe, and language worshiping Jesus in heaven."
"Including people from Quebec who speak French?" Ezra asked.
"That's right." Dad turned to see Jacque and his family leaving. "By the way, au revoir means 'goodbye' in French."
"Au revoir, Jacque!" Ezra called.
"Au revoir, Ezra!" Jacque called back. "I hope to see you again!"
–Ethan Terry
How About You?
Have you ever attended a church in a different country or where a different language was spoken? Church is not simply a building--God's church is made up of everyone who trusts in Jesus, and He saves people from all over the world. Though we worship Jesus in different places and languages, we are all part of God's family, and one day we will worship Him together in heaven.
Today's Key Verse:
I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. (NLT) (Revelation 7:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Christians live around the world
Bible Reading: Romans 5:1-5; 8:24-28
"It's such a nice day," Adrianna said. "Look at the sunshine, Mom! Nate, don't you wish we could go to the waterpark today?"
Nate looked at his little sister. "It would be fun, but I'm sure Mom and Dad have other plans for the day."
"I'm not sure what our plans are," Mom said, taking a sip from her mug of coffee. "And it does look like a nice day."
"Can I ask Daddy if we can go to the waterpark?" Adrianna asked, carrying her cereal bowl to the sink.
"You can ask," Mom said. "I'm not sure what he's thinking for today though."
"Yay!" Adrianna skipped out of the kitchen. "The waterpark! The waterpark!" she sang.
Mom smiled at Nate. "She's sure abounding in hope, huh?"
"What?" Nate's forehead wrinkled. "What do you mean?"
"In the Bible, the apostle Paul writes to the church in Rome encouraging them to abound in hope," Mom said. "To abound in hope means to be filled with it."
"What kind of hope?" Nate asked. "Hope in what?"
"Hope in God," Mom said. "Paul reminds them that those who trust Jesus as their Savior have peace and joy and can be filled with hope because of His promises. It's a little like how Adrianna has hope your dad will say yes to a waterpark trip--she knows he loves her and enjoys doing good things for her."
"And we can have hope God will do good things for us?" Nate asked.
Mom nodded. "That doesn't mean He'll give us everything we ask for, but we can abound in hope knowing that He saved us, gave us His Spirit to be with us, and promises to do good things in our lives."
"Do you think Dad will say yes to the waterpark?" asked Nate.
Before Mom had a chance to respond, Adrianna bounded back into the room. "We're going to the waterpark!" she shouted.
Mom grinned. "Your sister's hope did not disappoint," she told Nate. "Just like God does not disappoint us when we hope in Him."
"The waterpark--yay!" Nate pumped a fist in the air. "And a God we can hope in." He glanced at his mom. "I'm happy for that too."
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Have you ever hoped for something? Did it work out the way you wanted, or were you disappointed? The Bible says that if you trust in Jesus, you can abound in hope knowing that He will never let you down. He saved you from sin and gave you eternal life, and He promises to always be with you. Let the joy, peace, and hope of knowing Him fill your life as you trust Him to do good things.
Today's Key Verse:
Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (NKJV) (Romans 15:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Have hope in God
Bible Reading: Psalms 26:1-3; 139:23-24
"What's wrong with the car, Daddy?" asked five-year-old Lydia as the family drove to their country home after a church service in the village. "It's jerking."
"It's sure running rough," said Dad. "It's been doing that lately, but it's never been this bad before."
"Are we going to make it home?" Lydia peered through the window at the trees lining the steep drop at the side of the road.
"Sure, we'll make it," said Lydia's older brother, Barrett. "We always do."
The car slowly climbed a long, steep hill. Dad pushed the accelerator pedal to the floor, but the car refused to speed up. Dad frowned. "I must say, I'm annoyed with myself for not checking this out sooner," he said. "I should have taken the car to the mechanic when I first noticed it wasn't running smoothly."
"I think it's getting worse," said Barrett. He wasn't so sure they'd make it home after all.
Mom sighed. "Well, at least we're close enough to home that we can walk the rest of the way if we have to, but we'd have a long uphill hike."
"I guess the car needs regular checkups just like we do," said Barrett. "Like Pastor Kim said in his sermon this morning--have a checkup every day, and if you see a trouble spot, take care of the problem before it gets worse."
"Our car needs a checkup every day?" Lydia asked, puzzled.
Barrett laughed. "No, we do! As we pray, read the Bible, and go to church, we need to be on the lookout for any trouble spots of sin that God may be pointing out to us. If we see any, we need to confess them to Him right away. Jesus will forgive us and help us fix them so we can run smoothly again."
To the relief of the whole family, the car kept going and they finally reached their driveway. "Well," said Dad, "I hope you'll remember this lesson about doing regular checkups in your life, because I don't intend to let this car teach us that lesson again. Tomorrow it goes to the mechanic to be fixed!"
–Emilia D. Nichols
How About You?
Do you do regular checkups in your life? Do you spend time with the Lord in prayer, in His Word, and at church? When you do that, you may see trouble spots of sin in your life that don't match up to how He wants you to live. If so, confess them to Jesus and ask for forgiveness. Trust Him to help you turn away from sin. Then keep doing checkups to make sure you're living in a way that shows others His love.
Today's Key Verse:
Search me, O God…see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. (NKJV) (Psalm 139:23-24)
Today's Key Thought:
Examine your life daily
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:14-29
"Yum, your mangoes are the best, Nenek!" Eyes sparkling, Kira chewed the scrumptious mangoes her Indonesian grandmother had just peeled for her.
"You mean Kakek's mangoes," Nenek said, chuckling. "Your grandfather was the one who bought and planted the seeds in our backyard. The tree grew and grew, but no mangoes. Kakek persisted and kept fertilizing it though. It was only after his death that fruit buds bloomed. Too bad he never saw the fruits of his labor."
Kira's eyes dimmed as she thought of her grandfather, who died two years ago. "I miss Kakek."
"Do you remember how he often took you to church?" said Nenek. "Even when his health started failing, he loved to take you and talk about what you learned afterward."
Kira nodded. "I remember he took me to church two weeks before he was hospitalized. I didn't want to go then--I was tired from a basketball tournament on Saturday night, which we lost. But on Sunday morning, Kakek showed up with a huge smile and convinced me to go."
"I remember you were really down that night," Nenek said. "You and your team worked so hard for that tournament."
"Yeah--I thought of quitting basketball then. But then Kakek took me to church, and the sermon was on the parable of the bags of gold. Two of the servants were faithful with what God gave them and were able to make it grow. After church, Kakek said the parable was about using whatever God has given us--including our talents--to help more people know about Jesus. He told me about the time he lost a tennis match but kept on practicing and eventually won a game. He said his faith in Jesus kept him going and that he was trusting God to help him use his gifts however He wanted him to. It made me realize how much I needed Jesus. I asked Kakek to pray with me, and I became a Christian that day." Kira's face brightened. "I'm so glad I had him in my life, Nenek." She wrapped her arms around her grandmother.
Nenek planted a kiss on Kira's forehead. "So in the end, Kakek did see the fruits of his labor--not the mangoes, but you putting your faith in Jesus."
–Ruth Setyadi
How About You?
Have you ever worked at something but failed to see results? Perhaps it was a hard subject at school or a sport. Maybe you prayed for a family member or friend to trust in Jesus, but they continue to reject Him. Don't give up. Be faithful and persistent in the things God has put on your heart to do, and trust Him with the fruits of your labor--whether you see them or not.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (NIV) (Galatians 6:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Be faithful and persistent
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
"I need you to move a little faster, Lincoln. What's taking you so long? This morning could not be going any worse, and you're not helping things at all."
Lincoln blinked back tears as his mom snapped at him for being too slow heading out to the van. One of his shoes had been hard to get on, so he was dragging his foot a bit, waiting until he was seated to fix it.
"I can't believe I overslept," Mom muttered to herself as they got into the van. "Today of all days, when I have a meeting with my boss…"
Lincoln got settled in the van and worked on adjusting his shoe. He had it fixed by the time his mom dropped him off at his grandma's house.
A few hours later, Mom returned to pick him up. "I'm sorry I was a little grumpy this morning, Lincoln." She held up a cup of an iced brown liquid. "I needed my morning coffee. I really can't go without that."
Lincoln sighed. "You needed it, Mom?"
"Yes. You know me and coffee; I can't function without it."
Lincoln followed his mom out to the van. "I thought the only thing we were supposed to need was Jesus."
"Hmm." Mom settled into the driver's seat. "Well, technically, He is all we need," she said. "But we have some earthly needs too."
Lincoln frowned. "Like coffee?"
Mom backed out of the driveway and started through town. She was quiet for a few minutes before she glanced back at Lincoln. "Okay, that's not a good excuse," she said. "I'm not a baby, crying because I need my milk at the start of the day. More importantly, Jesus gives me the power to love others the way He does. I should be able to be a loving and kind person without coffee. I'm sorry."
"I forgive you," Lincoln said. "And I'm sorry you overslept this morning."
"Everything worked out in the end," Mom said. "Right now I just need God's grace, huh? I need Him to forgive me for letting my bad morning and lack of coffee affect my attitude and lead to a case of the grumpies taking over."
–Emily Acker
How About You?
What do you need each day in order to be kind and loving? Do you ever find yourself treating others badly because you're hungry, haven't slept well, or just want more time to yourself? Things like eating and sleeping well are important, but your greatest need of all is for Jesus. Trust Him to forgive your wrongs, meet your daily needs, and give you the power to show His love to others--even when you're tired or hungry.
Today's Key Verse:
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (NIV) (Philippians 4:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Let Jesus be all you need
Bible Reading: Philippians 3:4-11
"Dad, my glasses broke!" Levi said.
"Let me see," said Dad. "It looks like a screw needs tightening. I think I can fix them."
"I wish I could get new glasses like Justin's," Levi said. "The ones he got are really cool. He's always getting new things, and kids crowd around him to see his new stuff. With glasses like that, I'd be important like Justin."
"Well, let's see what we can do with these," said Dad. He set Levi's glasses on his workbench and reached for his toolbox. "For a job this important, I'll use my best tools." Dad lifted out a tray of screwdrivers, all of them in good condition. Dad was a carpenter, and he took good care of his tools. He pushed the tray toward Levi. "Which one should we use?"
Levi looked through the tray of short, long, wide, and narrow screwdrivers. None of them was the right size for the tiny screw. "None of these will work," he said.
"Are you sure?" asked Dad. "These are my very best tools."
"But they aren't the right ones for the job," said Levi.
"You're right." Dad pulled a tiny screwdriver out of a drawer and used it to tighten the small screw. "You know, getting new stuff to make us feel important is like using the wrong tool for the job. New stuff gets old and breaks, or someone else gets something better or more exciting than what we have. We might even find that other people just think our stuff is important and not us."
"So if getting new stuff is the wrong way to feel important, what's the right tool we should use?" asked Levi.
"The only way to truly feel loved and important is by receiving Jesus's gift of eternal life and embracing our identity in Him. He died and rose again to make us God's children, and that's a gift that will never break or wear out. Nothing will ever come along that's better. We're always loved and important to Him."
Dad handed Levi the repaired glasses, and Levi put them on. "Thanks, Dad," he said. "I can see much better now--and I see I'm important to Jesus. No new stuff needed."
–Heidi J. Schmidt
How About You?
Do you wish you had cool stuff so other people would notice you or like you more? Having something that others want may make us feel important for a time, but that feeling only lasts until something new comes along. You don't need anything new to get God's attention. Being His child makes you important to Him, and His love and acceptance of you will last forever.
Today's Key Verse:
Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. (NLT) (Philippians 3:8)
Today's Key Thought:
You are important to Jesus
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 31:7-8; Joshua 1:5
"Mae, I'd like you to put Miles down for his nap today," said Mom. "I need to make an important phone call."
"Okay," said Mae, smiling at her little brother. "Nap time!" she announced to the energetic little boy. Laughing, Miles toddled away, wanting his sister to chase him. Mae caught him quickly. "Sleepy time, buddy," she said, taking him to his crib. She hoisted him over the side and laid him down. Little Miles scrambled around on the mattress, ignoring soft toys and stuffed animals. He settled down when Mae patted his back for a few moments. "Sweet dreams," she whispered, backing out of the room.
Just as she was about to shut the door, Miles started crying. "Blankie!" he sobbed. "Blankie!" He pulled himself up and began to shake the railing.
Mae frowned. Where did he leave his blanket? She checked the TV room. She dug through the toy box. She searched the hall closet. She looked under the dining room table and on the chair seats. Finally, she found the blanket in a lower cupboard in the kitchen.
As soon as Mae handed Miles his blanket, he stopped crying. He clutched the blanket in his arms and dropped to the mattress. After a few shaky breaths, he smiled contentedly at Mae. "Sweet dreams," she said again as she left.
"Miles had to have his 'blankie' before he'd go to sleep," Mae told her mother later. "Good thing I found it or he never would have settled down."
"That blanket is his security," said Mom. "I guess we all need security--even grown-ups! We need to feel comfortable and cared for and safe. What's your security, Mae?"
"My security?" asked Mae in surprise. She shrugged. "You, I guess. I know you're here to help me if I need you." She grinned. "You're my 'blankie.' What's yours?"
"Well, we all find some security in family and friends, but a Christian's real security is in Jesus and His love and forgiveness. He cares for us, and He's always available. He saved us and promises to do what's best for us, even when we go through difficult times."
Mae nodded thoughtfully. "He's better than a blanket any day."
–Mary M. Ihlenfeldt
How About You?
What's your security? People look for security in lots of places--money, possessions, government, and the people in their lives. But none of those things can provide real security--even the people who love you can't be with you all the time and make mistakes. Only Jesus can bring real security. He cares for you and will always be with you. Depend on Him.
Today's Key Verse:
I [Jesus] am with you always, even to the end of the age. (NKJV) (Matthew 28:20)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is always with you
Bible Reading: Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11; Romans 8:35-39
Ryan helped his dad straighten the canvas of the tent that lay on the ground. "I love camping," he said. "Sleeping in a tent is so cool!"
Dad smiled. "I think so too. Okay, help me get the pegs through these tent loops. We'll pound the pegs in about halfway at first and then secure them when they're all in place."
Dad took one of the pegs and stuck it through a loop on the side of the tent. Ryan pounded it with the hammer. As Dad continued putting each peg in place, Ryan pounded it down. Then they put the poles together and raised the tent. "I can't wait to go inside and get my sleeping bag rolled out!" said Ryan.
"Well, don't try going in yet," said Dad. "It could collapse on you. We need to pound the pegs deeper into the ground first, remember?"
Ryan nodded, and they got to work. When the tent was finally secured, they put their sleeping bags inside. Then they grabbed their fishing poles and headed for the river.
Around midnight, Ryan woke to the sound of distant thunder. He saw that Dad was awake too. "Our tent won't blow down, will it?" Ryan asked.
"Oh, I don't think so," said Dad. "The wind is pretty gusty, but I don't think it will get strong enough tonight to blow the tent away. The pegs will hold it in place."
He was right. The wind soon died down and the storm passed, and Ryan and Dad went back to sleep.
"I'm glad we pounded those tent pegs in good and tight," said Ryan as they enjoyed a campfire breakfast the next morning.
"Me too," said Dad. "They kept our tent in place during the storm." He smiled at Ryan. "Do you know who holds us steady through the storms of life?"
"Jesus does," said Ryan. "If the wind got strong enough, the tent pegs might have let go, but nothing could ever make Jesus let go of us, could it?"
"No way," said Dad. "He died for our sins and rose again so we could spend eternity with Him. No matter how many difficult things come into our lives, we can always count on Jesus to hold us steady and help us through them."
–Pauline Youd
How About You?
Has your life been shaken up by something difficult--divorce, a death in the family, crime, or the loss of a friend? Things like that can sometimes make life seem very dark and stormy. That's when you need to remember that Jesus is still with you. He loves you and promises to help you through all of life's storms. No matter what difficult circumstances you face, He will never let you go.
Today's Key Verse:
For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." (NLT) (Hebrews 13:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus will always help you
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:22-25
"Mom, can we have fruit salad for lunch?" asked Brynlee.
"Good idea," said Mom. "You can help me make it. We have lots of different kinds of fruit we can use today." As they began putting the fruit together, Mom had an idea. "Maybe we can put nine different kinds of fruit in our salad and pretend we're putting in the fruit of the Spirit," she said. "We learned about them in church last week, remember?"
"Yeah," said Brynlee. "I'll name them as we put them in." She put orange pieces into a big bowl. "I'll call these love," she said. Then she opened a can and added pineapple chunks. "These will be joy. What else do we have?"
"I have some fresh peach wedges ready," said Mom. "And here's a cantaloupe we can cut up."
Brynlee put in the peaches, calling them peace. She decided on patience for the cantaloupe. "The apples will be kindness, and the pears will be goodness," she said. "I'll slice some bananas and call them faithfulness."
"Okay, and you can add some of these grapes," said Mom. Brynlee called the grapes gentleness.
"We still need a fruit for self-control," said Brynlee. "But we don't have anything else, do we?"
Mom shook her head. "No, I don't think so," she said. "Unless…" She opened a cupboard door. "How about some dried cranberries?"
"All right!" said Brynlee. "Now we have something for each fruit of the Spirit."
"Good," said Mom. "You did a great job remembering them. You got them all!"
At lunchtime, everyone enjoyed the salad. "Good to the last bite," said Dad, popping the last piece of pineapple into his mouth.
"And now our fruit of the Spirit is all gone," said Brynlee.
"I hope not!" said Mom. "Spiritual fruit will always be a part of our lives as Christians. As we rely on the Holy Spirit to fill us with love and become more like Jesus, others will be able to see the fruit of God's love in us."
Dad nodded. "I pray that the fruit God produces in our lives will show people we belong to Him."
–Linda Weddle
How About You?
Can others see the fruit of the Spirit in your life? People aren't able to see when you've had apples or peaches or other kinds of fruit for lunch, but the fruit of the Spirit should be visible in the life of every Christian. Are you letting others see the fruit of the love God has planted in your heart? Trust Him to help you let your words and actions show others you know Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
The fruit that the Spirit produces in a person's life is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (ERV) (Galatians 5:22-23 )
Today's Key Thought:
Display the fruit of the Spirit
Bible Reading: Psalm 103:11-13; Isaiah 64:8; Hosea 11:1-4
"Good job!" Dad shouted to Ellery. He was holding on to her by a towel looped under her armpits as she practiced riding her two-wheel bike. Her tongue stuck out of her mouth in deep concentration as she tried to maintain her balance even with Dad's support.
"Whoa!" she exclaimed, her eyes going wide. She started wobbling, but Dad held her upright as the bike went down to the ground. He hauled Ellery to her feet and smiled down at her. Ellery looked up at Dad and asked, "Again?"
Ellery practiced her biking skills for a while longer before they returned to the campsite just in time to grill some burgers over the fire. Meredith, her older sister, and Mom were just finishing up their quiet time when they arrived. Dad helped Ellery assemble her dinner just the way she liked it--two slices of cheese, three squirts of mustard, and four pickles.
"I read something interesting in my Bible today," Meredith said as Ellery dove into her food.
Ellery made a strange gurgling sound that resembled the words, "What, what?"
"Manners," both Mom and Dad said in unison.
Meredith looked at her sister and shook her head before continuing. "I read that God is our Father. I think it's cool there are so many different words in the Bible that describe who God is."
"Do you know why God calls Himself our Father?" Mom asked.
"Because He made us!" Ellery jumped in, now having swallowed her delicious bite.
"You're right," Dad said. "And when we trust in Jesus, we become part of God's family. The Bible also describes what kind of Father God is. He teaches us, encourages us, and is always with us."
"Like how you helped me on my bike today!"
"Or how you helped me with my jump shot in basketball," Meredith added.
Dad smiled at them. "Yes, but us human dads aren't perfect. My dad hurt me a lot when I was younger, and I know I'm not perfect and have messed up too. But God never does that. He is the perfect Father."
"He's even better than you?" Ellery asked.
"Even better than you can imagine," Dad responded as Ellery leaned her head against his arm.
–Zoe Brickner
How About You?
Do you have a loving dad in your life? If so, Father's Day is the perfect time to thank God for that wonderful blessing--and tell your dad you're thankful for him too! If you don't have a dad in your life, or your relationship with him is difficult, know that God sees you and loves you more than you could ever know. Unlike human dads, God is a perfect Father. He cherishes you and will be with you always.
Today's Key Verse:
See what great love the Father has given us that we should be called God's children. (CSB) (1 John 3:1)
Today's Key Thought:
God is our Father
Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:3-7; 1 Peter 1:18-19
"Sold!" proclaimed the fast-talking auctioneer, and Logan grinned at his mother. He found auctions fun and interesting, so he hadn't minded when she wanted to stop and see what was happening at this antique auction. "Another broken piece of junk sold to the highest bidder," Logan murmured, stifling a laugh. He liked to tease his mom about liking antiques.
Mom smiled and nudged him with her elbow. "Beauty is in the eye of the beholder," she told him. Logan shrugged and continued sitting on his hands as the auctioneer began selling an autographed baseball. Logan had learned to avoid lifting his hand during the bidding. Earlier he had started to scratch his head and the auctioneer thought he was bidding on the item being auctioned.
As they drove home after the auction, Logan asked his mom why people were so willing to spend their money on other people's junk. "I can't believe how much they'll pay for that stuff," he said. "I thought a few things they sold at the auction were cool, but people paid less for them than for stuff I wouldn't want if it were given to me! Who decides how much those things are worth?"
"The condition of the piece is important," said Mom, "and whether the item is rare or not is also a factor. But the bottom line is…well, how much someone is willing to pay for it. That's really what determines how much an item is worth."
Logan thought for a moment. "That's kinda like something we talked about in my class at church last week," he said. "Our teacher explained that God sent His Son to die for us--Jesus paid for our sins with His own life. I guess that makes us worth a lot!"
"I like that, Logan," Mom said. "I think you got a lot from that auction--even though you didn't buy anything."
Logan had one more question. "Um, Mom, what did I almost buy today when I scratched my head?"
"An old record player," Mom replied.
"Oh." Logan paused. "What's a record player?"
–Mike Dize
How About You?
Do you know how much you're worth? Because of what Jesus did for you, you're worth a lot--He paid a huge price for you! He gave His life to pay the price of your sin. Have you responded to that great love? Have you trusted Him as your Savior? If not, trust in Him today! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
You were bought at a price; therefore glorify God in your body and in your spirit, which are God's. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 6:20)
Today's Key Thought:
You're worth what Jesus paid for you
Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:8-9
Gunner ran to the garage when he heard his parents drive in. "Is Grandpa okay?" he asked anxiously as they got out of the car.
Dad put his hand on Gunner's shoulder. "Your grandfather isn't suffering anymore," he said quietly. "He died this afternoon--he's in heaven now."
Gunner swallowed hard, forcing back tears that choked his throat. He walked away while Dad was still talking.
In his room, Gunner thought about all the things he and Grandpa had planned to do. "It's not fair!" he muttered. He looked up as Dad came in. "I don't get it," Gunner said. "I prayed all day for Grandpa. God can do anything, can't He? So why didn't He heal Grandpa?"
"Sometimes God's answer to what we ask is no," Dad said gently. "I don't know why He didn't heal Grandpa, but I know Jesus promises to be with us in our pain and sadness. Grandpa is in heaven with Him now, and someday we'll see him again."
Gunner turned away. He wasn't ready to give up his grandfather. "But I wanted Grandpa to stay here with us."
Dad sat down beside him. "When you ask Mom and me for something we don't think is good for you, we tell you no. You don't like it when we say no. You might be upset about it--maybe even angry sometimes. But you know we love you and want what's best for you, right?" Gunner nodded. "We talk about what's happening and how all of us feel, and we go on loving each other," continued Dad. "We're a family even though we disagree. Well, that's how it is with God too. When we don't get what we ask Him for, we're unhappy and sometimes get angry with Him. It's okay to tell Him how we feel, but we need to remember that God loves us so much He sent His Son to die for us. He wants what's best for us--and for Grandpa."
"But I'm going to miss Grandpa so much," Gunner said, resting his face against his dad's shoulder.
"Me too," Dad said. "We can cry together." Gunner slipped his arm around his dad and hung on tight. "But let's thank Jesus that Grandpa is with Him now," said Dad. "And let's trust Him even though we're hurting."
–Janet Boulter
How About You?
Has someone you love died? Is someone sick? Tell Jesus about your hurts and fears. You may not always understand why He allows certain things to happen, but He will always be there with you and help you through times of pain and sorrow. Remember that He is good and that He loves and cares for you, even when you don't understand.
Today's Key Verse:
As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways. (Isaiah 55:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus when you're hurting
Bible Reading: James 4:13-17; 1 Peter 4:7-11
Jade stretched and yawned. Then she jumped down from her place on the top bunk and hurried to get dressed.
"Let's go, troops!" yelled a cheery voice from outside. "We have many miles to cover on our morning hike."
"How can Ella be so cheerful at seven o'clock in the morning?" asked Hayley, one of Jade's cabinmates.
"I don't know," Jade answered, "but I like it. Her cheerfulness rubs off on me. Let's go."
Jade and Hayley joined the other campers as they gathered in front of the dining hall. "Good morning!" said Ella, their camp counselor. "Are you ready for our adventure? We'll fix breakfast a little way down the trail."
A few minutes later, they were off. "Make sure you stay on the trail," Ella told the group. "There was a heavy mist last night, and everything is damp. The grass is pretty wet, and your feet will be too if you walk on it."
"It's not misty now," said Hayley. "Isn't it funny how mist just disappears?"
"Yeah--like a vapor," said Jade. "I learned a verse at church that says life is a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes."
"That's right," said Ella. "I know that verse too. It tells us how short life is--like a mist. And what did the mist do while it was here?"
"It made things wet," Hayley replied. "It soaked the grass so much that we don't want to walk on it."
Ella nodded. "Right. And in a way, we soak our environment too. For example, do you know anyone who soaks you with joy?"
Jade spoke up quickly. "You do! You always soak me with your cheerfulness, Ella. You make me feel happy."
Ella was surprised. "Why, thank you! But you know, the only reason I'm able to do that is because Jesus fills me with joy. Our lives may be short, but Jesus gives us the ability to soak other people's lives with His love. When we trust in Him, He fills our short lives on this earth with great purpose--the purpose of helping others know He loves them and offers them eternal life with Him."
–Kathy A. Brand
How About You?
What do you soak those around you with? Our time on earth may be short, but with Jesus, you can make a big difference in other people's lives. When you trust in Him, He fills you with His love and joy so you can point others to Him. Even though life is short, trust Jesus to help you become more like Him so He can use your life for His great purpose.
Today's Key Verse:
A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. (NIV) (John 13:34)
Today's Key Thought:
Share Jesus's love with others
Bible Reading: Romans 12:4-10
Cassie sat on the beach with her seagull in a cage at her side. She looked up at her mother, who was standing beside her. "I'm not sure I can let Howard go, Mom," she said. "He's just about the only friend I've got!" She sighed. "Some kids at school say I'm dumb because I have to go to special classes." Cassie looked down. "Why can't I be smart like other kids?"
Mom sat down and put her arm around Cassie. "You're very smart, honey. That word doesn't mean the same thing to everyone. Besides, our value isn't based on what we can do--it's based on who we are in Jesus and what He did for us on the cross. But He did also make each one of us special and give us our own gifts and talents."
Cassie wiped her eyes. "I don't have any gifts."
"Oh, but you do, Cassie!" Mom said. "I believe you have the wonderful gift of being able to help others."
"I do?" Cassie asked, wide-eyed.
Mom nodded. "You're very helpful to lots of people. When Grandma broke her hip, you went to her house almost every day to help out. You always remember to pray for kids at school who are sick--and look at Howard." Cassie looked down at the seagull. "Howard was badly injured when you found him," continued Mom, "and with help from the wildlife refuge, you nursed him back to health." Mom smiled. "The workers at the refuge said you have such a natural way of handling him that he's even become your friend. You've done such a good job, and now he's ready to be released. You're helpful in many ways."
Cassie shrugged. "Anyone would do those things."
Mom shook her head. "I wish that were true, but not everyone is that sensitive to the needs of others."
Cassie looked at Howard. "Well, Howard, how would you like your freedom?" She stood up and opened the cage, and the bird was soon in the air. He floundered a bit, then squawked what must have been a thank you and sailed out over the water. Cassie smiled. She would miss her little friend, but she was eager to see where she could use her special way with animals next.
–A.J. Schut
How About You?
Do you realize that everyone--including you--has special gifts from God? Maybe you think other kids are gifted because they get better grades or have greater athletic ability than you. But you're gifted too--God may have just given you different gifts than He gave those kids, like perhaps being friendly and encouraging others. Be thankful for the gifts God has given you and use them to help others.
Today's Key Verse:
Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And God has placed in the church…gifts. (NIV) (1 Corinthians 12:27-28)
Today's Key Thought:
God gives gifts to everyone
Bible Reading: Matthew 7:1-5; James 1:12-15
"I can't believe it! Andrew says he's a Christian, but I saw him looking at a bad website on his tablet today," Zane told his dad. "He must be really weak to look at that kind of stuff."
"So looking at websites like that doesn't appeal to you at all?" Dad asked.
"No way!" said Zane. "I don't have any problem staying away from that junk."
"I'm glad," Dad said as he put fishing rods into the trunk of the car. "Did you pack the trout flies?"
"Trout flies? I thought we were fishing for northern pike. You won't hook one of them with a trout fly!"
Dad grinned. "I can see you know a lot about fishing bait." He shut the trunk door. "So, what kind of bait do you need to look out for?"
"Me?" asked Zane.
Dad nodded. "Just like different fish are caught with different lures, different people are tempted to sin by different things. As you pointed out, Andrew is tempted by things he shouldn't look at online. So what are you tempted by?"
"Um…" Zane hesitated. "I don't know."
"Well, let's see. Why were you grounded last week?" asked Dad.
Zane's face grew warm. "I got upset at Macie and smashed one of her toys on the floor."
"And you got in trouble last month for pushing down a boy at school," said Dad. "So you have to watch out for a different lure than Andrew does--you're often tempted to hurt others when you feel angry."
Zane sighed. "I guess Andrew and I are a lot alike."
"You and Andrew and every other Christian," said Dad. "We all struggle with sin, but we're not all tempted by the same things. So instead of judging other Christians when they're tempted by certain sins, we need to encourage them and remind them that Jesus has freed us from sin. And if they do give in, we need to show them grace--just like Jesus does for us."
Zane nodded. "I'll do that next time I see Andrew looking at things he shouldn't--and ask him to do the same for me when I get angry."
"Good idea." Dad opened the car door. "Okay, jump in. Let's go get 'em!"
–Karen Ditthardt
How About You?
What sins do you struggle with? You may not struggle with the same things your friends do, but all Christians struggle with temptation at times. Jesus tells us not to point a finger at others while ignoring our own shortcomings. Instead, we need to remind other Christians who they are in Jesus when they're tempted to sin--and be on the lookout for the things that tempt us.
Today's Key Verse:
Each person is tempted when they are dragged away by their own evil desire and enticed. (NIV) (James 1:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Christians struggle with different sins
Bible Reading: 1 John 1:5-10
"Your mom's calling you for lunch?" Josie asked in surprise as she talked on the phone with her cousin Olive. "You mean you haven't eaten lunch yet? It's almost two in the afternoon! We ate a long time ago."
"Well, it's only noon here in Colorado, remember?" Olive replied. "We're in different time zones."
"Oh, that's right!" said Josie. "Well, I'd better go anyway--have a nice lunch."
The girls said goodbye, and Josie hung up. Then she wandered out to the backyard where her dad was working.
"Josie, I need you to walk down to Tess's house and pick up your sister," Dad said as he poured fertilizer out of a bag. "It's time for her to come home, and I'm busy with this."
"Why can't she just walk home?" asked Josie.
"She's too young to walk that far by herself," said Dad. "I'm covered in fertilizer, so I need you to go get her."
"No, I don't want to!" said Josie. "I'm sick of always doing everything for her. She's so annoying!" Josie turned and hurried toward the house.
When Josie found herself sitting alone in her room a few minutes later, she wished she had obeyed her father, but it was too late now. She knew she deserved to be punished.
When Dad came to Josie's room, she looked up sadly. "I wish we were in Colorado," she said. "It's two hours earlier there--just a little after twelve o'clock instead of two o'clock--so the time I got into trouble hasn't happened there yet. When it got to be two o'clock, I would obey you instead of talking back. I wish I hadn't done that."
"Things that have happened can't be made to unhappen," Dad said. "We can't go back in time--and even if we could, we'd still sin and make mistakes. But we can be forgiven for the wrong we've done. You don't need to move to another time zone for that. When you confess your sin to Jesus, He'll forgive you--and I will too."
Josie jumped up. "I'm sorry, Dad!" she said. "I really am!"
Dad smiled. "Good," he said as Josie gave him a hug. "Then you can go get your sister so I can finish with the fertilizer."
Josie sighed. "Okay, Dad," she said. "I will."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Have you ever wished you could go back and undo something you've done? You can't do that, but because Jesus paid for your sins on the cross, you can be forgiven. If what you did hurt other people, do your best to make things right with them. Let them know you're sorry, and accept the consequences of your sin. Most importantly, confess your sin to Jesus. He will forgive you and give you a clean start.
Today's Key Verse:
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (NKJV) (1 John 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
God forgives
Bible Reading: Genesis 50:20; Psalm 66:10-12; 1 Peter 1:6-9
"Wow, look at all the flowers!" Kayla stared in awe at the field of flowers. Her family was hiking in Waterton Lakes National Park. To their left was a stunning lake surrounded by mountains and to their right was a forest filled with beautiful pinkish-purple flowers. The trees were all blackened and bare, so the true beauty came from the flowers and the backdrop of mountains.
"These flowers are called fireweed," Mom said. "They're called that because they grow after a fire."
"Is that why all the trees are burnt?" Kayla asked. "Because of a fire?"
"Yes," Dad replied. "Several years ago there was a huge wildfire here. It burned all the trees and plants. Until the rest of the plants grow back, all that's here is the fireweed. The roots of fireweed can survive extremely hot temperatures, so it is one of the first plants to sprout up. The fire can even help it grow."
"It's so beautiful how these flowers can grow even after the devastation of a fire," Kayla said.
"I think it's a beautiful example of how God works to bring good things out of bad things," Mom said thoughtfully. "Sometimes He allows bad things to happen in our lives so He can use them for good."
"Yeah, the fire must've been terrible, but God was nourishing little roots of beauty even then," Kayla said.
Mom nodded. "That's so true. Sometimes we can see how God is working in our lives, but often we won't see it right away. When this wildfire was raging through the park, I'm sure people worried that a lot of the park's natural beauty would be destroyed. But after the wildfire died down, these wildflowers sprouted up! And the park is still beautiful, even though there's not as many trees as before. In the same way, God can use our hard times to help us grow in our faith, which is a beautiful thing."
"That also reminds me of Jesus's sacrifice," Dad said. "It must've seemed like a terrible thing to Jesus's disciples for Him to be crucified. But God planned it for good--it was the only way we could be saved from sin and have eternal life with Him."
Kayla smiled. "I'm so thankful God causes beauty to flourish even after hard times."
–Elizabeth Cooper
How About You?
Do you have a hard time seeing beauty in your life when things are hard? Sometimes it can take a while to see God bring good things out of bad things, and sometimes we won't see how God was working in our lives until we get to heaven. But because of Jesus's sacrifice, we have the hope of an eternal future with God and can trust Him to use even bad things that happen in our lives for good.
Today's Key Verse:
We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. (CSB) (Romans 8:28)
Today's Key Thought:
God brings good things out of bad things
Bible Reading: Colossians 1:9-14
Hudson was working on his electric train set when Dad joined him in the basement. "How's the train project coming along?" he asked.
"Good!" said Hudson. "It's almost ready to run."
"All right!" said Dad. "And how was school today?"
Hudson frowned. "I got in trouble for coming in late from recess again, and Miss Cooley gave me extra math homework because I didn't do the homework she assigned yesterday." He sighed. "Everyone's always on my case--I wish I could just do whatever I wanted, like you and Mom."
"Hmm," said Dad. "Well, Hudson, let's see how your train runs." He reached over and pressed the start button, and the train began moving.
"Wait! What are you doing? I don't have all the tracks down yet!" exclaimed Hudson. "It's gonna crash!" As he spoke, the train rounded the turn and rolled off the track, falling on its side. Hudson sighed. "I knew that would happen."
"So the train needs the tracks," said Dad. "Otherwise it doesn't get where it's supposed to go, right?"
Hudson nodded. "Yeah."
"Well, God's path for your life is like those tracks," said Dad. "He sent Jesus to die for you so you could have a relationship with Him for all eternity, and He is patiently building your character and shaping you to be more like Jesus so others can see His love in you. He does that for each one of His children, but when we insist on doing things our own way and disobey the people He puts in our lives to help us learn, we get off track. When that happens, we need to ask Him to forgive us and set us right again."
Dad picked up the train and set it back on the track. "It may seem like Mom and I can do whatever we want because we're adults, but that's not true. We're just farther down our life track than you are and have already learned many of the things God is still teaching you--like responsibility. But we still need His guidance and forgiveness just as much as you do."
"Okay, Dad," Hudson said as he put another piece of the track in place. "I'll trust God to help me stay on track."
–Michael R. Chapman
How About You?
Do you get tired of people telling you what to do? Do you ever wish you could do whatever you wanted? Remember that God has placed people in your life to teach you what He wants you to learn. As you get older, you'll have more freedom in making choices, but you'll have more responsibilities too. That's why you need to depend on God to help you stay on track. Trust Him to lead you along life's path in the way He wants you to go.
Today's Key Verse:
That you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. (NKJV) (Colossians 1:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God's path for your life
Bible Reading: Isaiah 26:3; Matthew 6:25-27, 31-34
"Get in there!" said Finley, shoving her beach blanket into her suitcase.
"Are you still packing?" asked her older brother, Ian. "We're leaving in ten minutes! Here, let me help you." He jumped on the lid of the suitcase, holding it in place while Finley moved the zipper around the edges.
Dad appeared at the door. "I'll take your suitcase to the car," he said, picking it up. "Wow! Why is it so heavy?"
"Because she's taking half the things in her room!" said Ian.
"Well, they're important," Finley said. "I need my hat, my beach blanket, and three swimsuits in case I can't decide which one to wear. I need my sailboat to play with in the ocean, and I can't build sand castles without my pail and shovel. If it rains, I'll have my raincoat, my boots, and my umbrella. I also packed a puzzle, some games, and bedtime books. And my teddy bear in case I can't fall asleep."
"I think you should leave some things behind," said Dad.
"But what if I need something and don't have it?"
"Finley, I think something else might be weighing your suitcase down," said Dad. "Just like you packed too many things in your suitcase, you can also pack too many worries in your head--and they can make life very heavy."
"I thought I was just planning ahead for a good vacation," said Finley.
"It's good to be prepared, but there's a difference between planning ahead and trying to control anything that could happen. That's what worrying really is--being afraid of something you can't control. If you unpack your worries, your suitcase will probably be lighter too."
"But how do I unpack my worries?" asked Finley.
"By surrendering them to Jesus. He loves you so much He died for you, and He promises to take care of you. Instead of worrying about what might happen, you can have peace knowing He's in control. Let Him carry the weight of your worries." Dad unzipped Finley's suitcase. "Why don't we take a moment to pray about some of your worries now? Then we can lighten up that suitcase and start our vacation!"
–Elena Dee
How About You?
Do you feel heavy with worry? Are you afraid of things in your life you can't control? Worries can weigh you down like a heavy suitcase, but it doesn't have to be that way. Jesus wants to carry your worries for you. He died and rose again to save you, and He promises to provide you with everything you need. Pray about what's worrying you, and trust Him to take care of you and give you peace.
Today's Key Verse:
Give all your worries to him, because he cares for you. (ERV) (1 Peter 5:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Give your worries to Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalms 8; 104:24-28
Carson loved visiting the aquarium. There was so much to see there, and he not only liked seeing the bigger fish but also the smaller ones and the other creatures that lived in the ocean. He could spend hours watching the tanks and all the different creatures that lived in them.
"Having fun?" Carson's uncle Brett asked.
Carson's younger cousins were running back and forth, shouting out the names of everything they saw, but Carson had chosen to stand and quietly observe the tank in front of him.
Carson nodded. "This is awesome."
"It is. Just think about God's creativity with all of this," Uncle Brett said. "He could have made all the fish look alike, but instead they are different colors, shapes, and sizes."
"Yet they all live together in the ocean." Carson shook his head. "It's amazing."
They continued on in the aquarium for a while before taking a break for lunch. Carson was disappointed to leave. "There's just so much to see. I want to make sure we get to all of it," he said with a sigh as he followed his family away from the tanks.
"We'll see more of it after lunch," Uncle Brett said. "And since you're so interested, maybe we'll have to come back again. Or better yet, maybe you and I could go snorkeling one day."
Carson's eyes widened. "Really?"
Uncle Brett nodded. "I always love seeing more of God's creation. The ocean is filled with even more amazing creatures than we can find here."
"That would be so cool," Carson said.
Uncle Brett nudged his shoulder. "The ocean and all that's in it is pretty amazing, but one of God's most special creations is right here."
"Huh?" Carson glanced at him.
"You!" Uncle Brett said. "God created you and your cousins and me and all people with just as much care as He did all the creatures in the ocean. But He made us in His own image, and when we were separated from Him because of sin, Jesus died and rose again to save us and give us eternal life. I think that makes us pretty special, don't you?"
"Yeah." Carson smiled. "But I'd still love to go snorkeling in the ocean."
–Bethany Acker
How About You?
When you look at the ocean and all the creatures that live in it, does it amaze you? How does it feel to know God made all that and that He made you too? People are God's most special creation, and He loves us so much He sent Jesus to die for us so we could live with Him forever. When you look at God's amazing creation, remember how special you are to Him.
Today's Key Verse:
There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number--living things both large and small. (NIV) (Psalm 104:25)
Today's Key Thought:
God created the oceans and you
Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:10-11; Jeremiah 18:6
Tiago held a headless clay animal in his hand. "Mom!" he wailed. "I forgot to put my animal back in the container, and the clay got all hard and dry before I could finish, so now it doesn't have a head!"
"I'm sorry, Tiago," said Mom. "But it's too late to do anything about it now. It's time for bed."
"But my animal project is due tomorrow, and now all this work was for nothing!" Tiago groaned as he dropped the animal onto his dresser and crawled into bed.
Mom glanced at the Bible on Tiago's dresser. "Aren't you going to read a few verses before you go to sleep?" she asked. "I thought you did that every night."
Tiago shrugged. "I've been busy lately, and I don't understand it very well anyway." He pulled the covers up to his chin. "I think it'd be better to wait until I'm older so I can understand it."
Mom picked up the animal Tiago had made. "Did you know that we're a lot like clay?"
"We are?" asked Tiago.
Mom nodded. "The Bible compares us to clay that God shapes. When you shaped this, it took time, didn't it? You kept working with it until it looked good. God does that with us. One way He does that is through His Word--the Bible. Even though you don't understand everything, it helps you learn more about Jesus and what He did to save you. As you read and listen to God's truth in the Bible, He works in your heart and helps you learn to trust and obey Him so He can shape your life into something beautiful."
Tiago looked at the hardened clay his mom was holding. "He'll probably do a better job shaping me than I did with that animal, huh?"
"Yes," said Mom. "You can trust Him to shape you to be more like Jesus--and reading your Bible will help you understand more about what that looks like." Mom set down the animal and picked up Tiago's Bible. "So do you want to read a few verses now? You can let me know if you need help understanding them."
"Okay," said Tiago. "But don't go far away. I'll probably need help!"
–A.J. Schut
How About You?
Does the Bible seem too hard for you to understand? Even though you don't understand everything, it helps you learn more about who God is and what He's done for you. So spend time reading it each day, and ask other Christians--like parents, teachers, or pastors--to explain some of the things you find difficult. God will use it to shape you into the person He wants you to be.
Today's Key Verse:
My word…will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire. (NKJV) (Isaiah 55:11)
Today's Key Thought:
God shapes you through His Word
Bible Reading: Romans 8:28-29; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
Trey was excited because today Grandma was finally going to teach him how to make her famous molasses bread. As Dad dropped him off and waved goodbye, Trey could already taste the rich, fluffy bread and the salty crunch of toasted oats on top.
Grandma welcomed Trey with a hug and led him into the kitchen. They used sign language to communicate because Trey was deaf. Grandma signed "flour," "molasses," "yeast," and "spoon." Trey scurried around the kitchen to find the ingredients while Grandma started mixing.
As they added more and more ingredients, a dark and gooey dough formed. Grandma placed a towel over the dough bowl before gently setting it in a sunny part of the kitchen.
"Why doesn't the dough look like bread yet?" Trey signed.
Grandma smiled. "The dough must rise before it goes in the oven."
That made sense to Trey. After an hour and a half, they checked the dough. It was double the size and very poofy. Grandma punched down the dough before laying it on the pan and putting it in the oven.
Trey frowned. The dough still didn't look like bread. It didn't look tasty at all. Did Grandma forget something?
He asked her this, and she replied, "Just you wait and see."
When Grandma took the tray out of the oven, Trey was nervous. But the bread looked perfect, smelled perfect, and tasted even better than perfect.
As they ate, Grandma said, "You know, making bread reminds me of what it's like to become God's new creation."
Trey shrugged, confused. Grandma continued. "Before we put our trust in Jesus, we are like raw, scattered ingredients--we don't have a purpose. We are controlled by our wrong desires and deserve death because of our sin. But Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the cross, and rose from the dead so we could have new life and live with Him forever. Jesus gives us a purpose--to love Him and others and become more like Him. Just like the dough needs the oven to become bread, we need Jesus to be saved from sin and be made new."
Trey nodded eagerly and took Grandma's hand to pray. Somehow this seemed even better than Grandma's famous molasses bread.
–Hannah Chung
How About You?
Have you ever baked something and wondered, "How do these random ingredients make something so delicious?" Without the oven, the dough would be raw and inedible. Similarly, we can only have true life by trusting in Jesus. When you trust Him to save you, God immediately makes you new! Trust in Jesus today and experience a new life of purpose. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (NKJV) (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Christ alone makes us new
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-37; 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; 1 Peter 4:12–14
Alisha ran inside the house. "There's a butterfly outside!" she exclaimed. "I got a picture on my phone. Do you want to see it?" she asked Devin, her older sister.
"Sure." Devin inspected the photo. "That butterfly is beautiful," she said as she cut into a mango.
Alisha frowned as juice hit her phone. "That mango juice is getting everywhere."
Devin shrugged as a piece of mango flew across the kitchen. "I'm trying to keep it from splashing all over the place, but mangos are messy."
Alisha sat down at the counter and watched her sister. "Why eat mangos then? If they're messy, you could just not buy them."
Devin popped a piece of mango into her mouth. "Because they taste really good, and I think it's worth it." She gave Alisha a smile. "It's kind of like your school problem."
Alisha blinked. "Your mango is like people being mean to me at school because I believe in Jesus?" she asked doubtfully.
"Kind of. Being a follower of Jesus can be messy. The Bible even tells us that--it says others might make fun of us or try to make life harder for us, like the kids at school who are mean to you. But you haven't stopped trusting in Jesus, have you?"
Alisha looked shocked. "Why would I do that? He died for my sins so He could be with me all the time, and someday I'll be able to spend forever in heaven with Him."
Devin smiled. "See? Knowing Jesus is worth it. Just like the mangos." She cut into a second mango.
Alisha ducked so no juice would hit her. "I don't care how messy following Jesus is! Just like you don't care how messy your mango is." She thought about that for a moment. "I guess that makes sense. Kids at school make fun of me, but I know that Jesus loves me and died to save me, and that's worth whatever mean stuff people say." Alisha shrieked as a piece of mango hit her arm. "But those mangos are not worth it at all. I'm getting out of here!"
–Kimberly Brokish
How About You?
Has anyone ever been mean to you because you believe in Jesus? Maybe they've called you names or said Jesus isn't real. The Bible tells us that being Christians doesn't protect us from all hardships--in fact, sometimes we will experience difficulties because we follow Jesus. But the Bible does tell us that Jesus will always love us and be with us. Take comfort in knowing that Jesus will be with you no matter what happens. He is worth any difficulties that come with following Him.If someone is being mean to you, talk to a trusted adult so they can help.
Today's Key Verse:
That is why, for Christ's sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong. (NIV) (2 Corinthians 12:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Hardships come when we follow Christ
Bible Reading: Joshua 1:1-9
The sick feeling in Micah's stomach got worse as the plane lifted off the ground and lurched into the air. Everything below him was the size of ants. Not only did he feel sick to his stomach, his chest felt tight too. Dad sat next to him and tried to smile encouragingly. It didn't help.
Since his parents' divorce he'd had to spend most of his time with Mom and went to visit Dad in the summer and over Christmas. Every time he left Mom, Micah felt scared. He wasn't afraid of his dad--he loved him--just scared of change. Of traveling to new places. Airports. Big cities. The sadness he felt from his parent's divorce was bad enough, but the fear that came with it made him feel like his life was out of control.
The plane leveled off, and Micah began to breathe a little easier. Dad reached over and gave him a hug. "Change is hard, isn't it? New things and places can be uncomfortable. But I know something that might help you." Dad pulled out his Bible. "This morning I read about Joshua leading the children of Israel into their new land. There were bad guys to fight, he'd never led anyone into battle before, and change was all around him. But God was with him and brought him through it all."
Dad squeezed Micah's arm. "I know your mom's and my divorce has been very difficult for you and how many changes you've had to go through. But I also know that because you trust in Jesus, God is with you and will never leave you. Wherever you go, He goes. God was with Joshua just like He promised, and He promises to be with you too. You don't have to be afraid."
After Micah listened to Dad read some verses from his Bible, he thought about it for a while. He liked the idea of never being alone. Someone would always be with him when new things happened or new people came into his life. And not just anyone, but someone who loved and cared about him. A trusted Friend--Jesus. Micah relaxed back into his seat and smiled. "You know, Dad, I think this is gonna be our best visit ever!"
–S.K. Fry
How About You?
Have you ever been afraid of change? Of being alone? God promises in His Word that He will always be with His children. Jesus gave His life to save you from sin and make you God's child, and He will be with you in hard times and give you strength and guidance. No matter what happens or where you go, He will always be with you.
Today's Key Verse:
Be strong and courageous…for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (NIV) (Joshua 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
God is with you
Bible Reading: Psalm 51:6-10; Luke 11:37-41
"Mom, can we go home now? I'm sooo bored!" Stella slumped against the seat of the car.
"Stella, we're almost done--kids, look! A whole block sale!" Mom pulled the car over to the side of the road.
Hayden excitedly pressed his nose against the window. "I love yard sailing!"
The family got out of the car. Hayden ran straight to a model airplane. Stella stuck close to her mom as they looked at different mugs. Mom picked up one with a lid just as Hayden came running back. He and Stella both saw it at the same time, and the siblings gasped in unison.
"That is the prettiest mug I've ever seen!" Stella exclaimed.
"Mom, you have to get it!" Hayden said.
"All right, fine." Mom laughed and brought the mug to the cashier.
When the family arrived home, Stella asked, "Mom, can I please have the mug?"
Mom smiled. "No, but if you clean it, you can be the first to drink out of it!"
Stella's eyes sparkled. "Deal!" She ran excitedly to the sink. She opened the lid of the mug and immediately shut it. "Eww, it's all gross on the inside!"
Mom came over and peered at the mug. "Kids, this is a perfect example of what I read during my devotions today! In the book of Matthew, Jesus told the Pharisees to first clean the inside of the cup, and then the outside will also be clean. What do you think that verse actually means?"
Stella wrinkled her nose in thought. "Oh, I know! God wants what we look like on the inside to matter more to us than our outward appearance."
Hayden's eyes widened. "God wants us to clean our insides?"
Stella smirked. "No, silly. God sees our hearts, and that's what matters to Him."
"Oh, I get it now!" said Hayden. "We need to let Jesus make us clean."
"You got it," said Mom. "When we trust Jesus as our Savior, He cleans our sin away and pours His love into our hearts. Then our outward actions will make His love visible to others." She smiled. "Now, who wants some hot chocolate to go in that mug?"
–Summer Coleman
How About You?
Are you more concerned with your outward appearance and how others see you than with God and how He sees your heart? What's on the inside matters more because when we truly have a clean heart, it shows in the way we act and speak. How do you get a clean heart? By trusting in Jesus. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) When you have His love in your heart, others will see it in how you treat them.
Today's Key Verse:
First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside will also be clean. (NKJV) (Matthew 23:26)
Today's Key Thought:
What's inside is most important
Bible Reading: Psalm 42:1-4
"It's still raining," said Hayley. "Isn't the sun ever going to shine again?"
"We need rain to make the garden grow," said Mom. She smiled at her daughter. "This might be a good time for you to pray and read your Bible. You haven't done that yet today, have you?"
"No--but I have some other things I want to do first." Hayley quickly headed for the stairs. "Seems like all we do in this family is go to church and read the Bible and pray," she mumbled to herself. She blushed when she saw Mom glance her way. Oops! I hope Mom didn't hear that, she thought.
A little while later, Hayley came back downstairs and glanced out the window. "Good!" she said. "The rain stopped. We've had enough."
"Come with me to the garden," said Mom. "I want to show you something."
Outside, Mom plunged a shovel into the dirt and turned it over. The ground was quite wet on top, but a little way down, the dirt was dry.
"I thought it'd be muddy a mile below the surface!" said Hayley. "I guess we do need more rain."
Mom nodded. "The ground needs a lot of regular rain or it will dry out," she said. "It reminds me of us--if we don't regularly pray, read the Bible, and go to church, we can dry out spiritually."
Hayley sighed. "You heard what I said earlier, didn't you?"
"Yes, I did," said Mom. "And I know it can be hard to do those things sometimes, but the Bible compares our need for Jesus to thirst. Even after we've put our faith in Him, we still need to spend time with Him so He can remind us that He has saved us and help us feel His love and presence in our lives. If we don't pray, read His Word, and worship Him with other Christians regularly, we can lose sight of how much we need Him and become spiritually dry--just like this ground without rain."
Hayley was silent as they headed back to the house. "I think I'll go have my quiet time now," she said once they were inside. "I'm feeling thirsty for God's Word."
–Cindy Huff
How About You?
Are you eager to spend time with Jesus and get to know Him better? As a Christian, your soul thirsts for Jesus, and that thirst can only be quenched by spending time in His presence so He can remind you of His love and that you are His. Don't be a dry Christian. Spend quality time reading God's Word, talking to Jesus, and learning all you can about Him.
Today's Key Verse:
I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. (NLT) (Psalm 143:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't be a dry Christian
Bible Reading: Proverbs 4:20-27; Matthew 14:22-32
Mara climbed up onto the beam Dad had built for her. She was determined to make the school gymnastics team, but after taking a few steps, she wobbled and nearly slipped off. "Focus your eyes on that picture you put up," Mom said.
While staring at the picture on the wall across the room, Mara slowly lifted her foot. But when she glanced back at her mother, she tilted to the left and then swayed to the right. She tried to regain her balance, but had to hop down to keep from toppling off the beam. She climbed back up. "I'm gonna get this," she said. "I just have to focus."
After dinner that evening, Dad opened his Bible and handed it to Mara. "Why don't you read a few verses from Proverbs for us?"
"Okay." Mara took the Bible and began to read. When she finished, she looked up. "Proverbs 4:25 sounds like good advice for gymnastics. I need to look straight ahead and keep my eyes from wandering. Every time I lose my focus, I lose my balance."
Mom nodded. "I have trouble with that too."
"You do?" Mara grinned. "Do you get up on the beam and practice when I'm not around?"
Mom laughed. "No, but I have trouble in another area. As Christians, we need to keep our focus on Jesus so we don't get distracted by things in this world and lose our balance in life."
Mara thought about that. "When I practice for gymnastics, I stare at that picture on the wall. But how do we focus on Jesus?"
"Good question," said Dad. "The passage you just read listed some ways to do that. Do you remember what it said we should do?"
"I know!" said Mara's little brother. "It said we should pay attention to what God says."
"And keep it in our hearts and not let it out of our sight," added Mara.
Dad nodded. "Right. That means putting our faith in Jesus and looking to His Word for guidance in our lives. It also means confessing our sins to Jesus and trusting Him for the power to obey Him and show His love to others. Focusing our lives on Him will keep us in perfect balance."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Do you focus on Jesus as you go about each day? Do you remember all He's done for you and the love and forgiveness you have in Him? Do you trust Him to help you turn from sin and treat others with kindness? There are lots of things that need our daily attention, but don't let them draw you away from what's really important. Stay focused on Jesus and depend on Him to help you in every area of life.
Today's Key Verse:
Let your eyes look straight ahead; fix your gaze directly before you. (NIV) (Proverbs 4:25)
Today's Key Thought:
Focus on Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 104:16-24
Dad rowed the boat to the edge of some lily pads. It was the best place in the lake to catch fish. As Alex sat in the boat with his father, he watched his red and white bobber closely and waited for it to go down, signaling a fish had taken the bait. The calm water reflected the sky and trees along the shore. Birds were singing, and a frog hopped off a lily pad and splashed into the lake. The bobber wiggled as the ripples spread under it, but it didn't go down.
"The fish don't seem to be very hungry today," Dad said a while later. "But it sure is nice out here with the blue sky and water and the green grass and trees. It's all so peaceful."
Alex turned to his dad. "We've been studying colors in school," he said. "Some scientists say that blue slows down the rate of the heart and green helps prevent eyestrain. That makes them restful colors."
"Do you suppose that's why God made so much blue and green in nature?" Dad asked. "Just imagine what it would be like if the sky were bright red and all the leaves were black."
Alex laughed. "We learned that red is supposed to make people more active. Some say it can even cause blood pressure to rise. I don't think it would make people feel very good to have a red sky all the time." He paused. "It sure looks pretty when the sun is setting though."
"God is very wise," said Dad. "We see a great deal of His wisdom in nature--even in the colors He chose. Restful greens and blues most of the time, but pretty reds and oranges and yellows in evening sunsets and fall leaves."
"Right. And lots of colors in flowers and berries and stuff." Alex looked at his fishing line. "You know what else scientists say? They say orange makes you hungry." He grinned at his dad. "I wish God had made these bobbers. Instead of making them red and white, He probably would have made them orange to make the fish more hungry. Then maybe they'd take the bait!"
–Jane K. Chase
How About You?
Have you thought about how wonderful God's creation is? The world is full of things that show His great wisdom and power. There's something special and different about every season of the year, and every living creature has its own amazing features and abilities. Thank God for creating this beautiful world for you to enjoy--and for creating and loving you!
Today's Key Verse:
O LORD, how many are Your works! You made them all in wisdom. The earth is full of what You have made. (NLV) (Psalm 104:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Appreciate God's creation
Bible Reading: Genesis 3:8-23; Romans 6:23; 8:1
Lila normally loved her and Mom's monthly post-church café tradition. They sat at their usual window seat, but today Lila nudged ice cubes around with her straw in silence. Unable to bear the silence anymore, Mom asked what was wrong.
Sighing, Lila responded, "Well, we learned about sin today at church, and I just don't understand. Why does sin have to ruin everything, and why does it cause pain and death and heartbreak?"
"Now that's a big question," Mom said, "but a good one. Let me take a moment and try to think of a good way to answer." She looked out the window until her eyes landed on something. "Do you see that wasp?"
Lila grimaced at the yellow-and-black-winged terror. "Yes."
"Well, sin is kind of like your allergic reactions to wasp stings," said Mom. "How did you feel when you got stung last week?"
Lila rubbed the spot on her arm where a wasp had stung her. It was still slightly red and raised up. "I was dizzy. My whole arm swelled up, and I even had trouble breathing."
"Right. Even though the wasp only stung one tiny part of your body, you still felt its horrible effects everywhere. Like your bee sting, it only took one mistake for everything to become cursed with sin. When Adam and Eve, the first two people, chose their own way instead of God's, their disobedience broke the perfect relationship they had with God and brought sin and its horrible effects into the world."
"And that's why Jesus had to come," said Lila.
Mom nodded. "Jesus's perfect life, death on the cross, and resurrection from the grave saves us from the punishment of sin and heals our relationship with God. But because sin still exists in the world, we see its effects in our lives--like when wasps sting us and cause us pain. Yet we can be excited about how God will make everything perfect again one day."
Lila glanced at the wasp outside the window. "Yeah, thank You, Jesus, for saving us…and thank You for allergy medicine!"
"Praise Jesus, indeed," Mom said with a smile.
Lila grinned as their server set a plate of waffles down in front of her. "Praise Jesus for waffles too."
–Zoe Brickner
How About You?
Have you ever wondered how sin could cause so much pain and suffering in the world? It's easy to forget how awful sin truly is and how it effects everything. But God, out of His unexplainable and never-ending love for us, sent Jesus to save us from sin, and He promises to one day make everything perfect again. When we trust in Him, we can look forward to the day when all pain and suffering will end.
Today's Key Verse:
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NIV) (Romans 6:23)
Today's Key Thought:
God will make everything perfect
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-26
"We're here!" Joshua and Jonathan tumbled out of the car and ran ahead of their parents through a gate. Then they stopped and looked around, puzzled. "This is a cemetery!" Jonathan said. "I thought we were going to a battlefield!"
"Yeah," said Joshua. "The only soldier around here is that statue in the middle of the graves. My teacher says statues like that are memorials--things to help us remember something."
"That's right," Dad said as they moved toward the statue. "Actually, this whole battlefield--which, by the way, extends beyond the cemetery--is a memorial."
Mom nodded. "A memorial can have different forms," she said. "It can be a statue like the one we're looking at. Or it can be a holiday--like Memorial Day. Or even a service designed to remind us of someone or something."
"Like how on Memorial Day we remember people who have died," Jonathan said.
"Yes," said Mom. "On that day, we especially remember those who died while serving their country--men and women like the soldiers buried in this cemetery."
The boys began roaming around, reading the tombstones. "Hey, look!" Jonathan called. "This guy had the same name as me. 'Jonathan Wright. Born 1760. Died 1778.' That means he was only…uh…" Jonathan thought for a moment. "Eighteen years old when he died. He wasn't very old!"
"Do you boys know how old Jesus was when He died?" asked Dad.
"Thirty-three," said Joshua. He rolled a pebble on the gravel path under his shoe. "Why don't we have a memorial day for Jesus?" he asked.
"Oh, we do!" said Dad. "We remember His death on Good Friday, but we also have a day when we remember His resurrection. We call it…"
"Easter!" the boys said in unison.
"Yes," said Mom, "and we not only have special days to remember and celebrate what Jesus did for us. We also have a memorial service. Every time we have the Lord's Supper at church--or Communion as it's also called--we're reminding ourselves of Jesus's death and the sacrifice He made to free us from sin."
–Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Have you thanked God for the sacrifices others have made for your freedom? How about the sacrifice Jesus made to free you from sin? Christians celebrate Good Friday, Easter, and Communion to remember that sacrifice. As you remember His death on the cross, His burial, His resurrection, and the fact that He will come again, give thanks for all Jesus has done for you.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said], "This is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me." (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 11:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Remember Jesus's sacrifice
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-30
"Mom, I'm home!" Alyssa called as she came in after school.
"Hi, honey!" said Mom. "How was your day? Did you learn anything interesting?"
"We sure did!" said Alyssa. "Mr. Eddleman, our science teacher, poured some really hot water into two glasses. One glass had a spoon in it, and the other one didn't. The one without the spoon cracked when the hot water was poured in, but the other glass was fine. Mr. Eddleman said the metal spoon helped absorb some of the heat and kept the glass from breaking."
"Well, I hope he had the glass in the sink when it broke!" said Mom.
Alyssa laughed. "He did." Then the smile faded from her face. "Everly wasn't in school today--her family is having all kinds of problems. Her brother was in a car accident last night and had to be rushed to the hospital."
"Oh no, that's terrible!" said Mom.
"Yeah," said Alyssa. "And her dad still hasn't found a job, and her grandma is really sick--she might be dying. I don't see how they can deal with it all."
"Well, they know Jesus," said Mom. "And that makes a big difference."
Alyssa shrugged. "I feel like I would crack, like that glass in science class today."
"That science experiment is a pretty good example of how knowing Jesus helps people," said Mom.
"It is?" asked Alyssa in surprise.
Mom nodded. "Just like the hot water was poured into the glasses, we all have problems come into our lives. Sometimes it can be so overwhelming that we feel like we might crack under the pressure. But Jesus is like that spoon--He helps absorb the heat of our trials. His constant love and care keep our spirits from breaking. I really don't know how anyone can get through tough times without Him." She smiled at Alyssa. "Let's ask God to comfort and encourage Everly and her family and help them trust Him to bring them through it all."
Alyssa nodded. "Okay," she said. "But can't we do something else too? Like take them a meal or something?"
"We sure can," said Mom. "Let's start fixing one right now."
–Linda E. Knight
How About You?
Are you surrounded by problems and difficulties--or do you know someone else who is? Sickness, a parent losing a job, problems at school, death of a loved one--all these and many other things can make you feel like you simply can't stand it anymore. When you feel like you're going to crack, remember that Jesus is with you. He cares and promises to give you the strength you need.
Today's Key Verse:
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7 )
Today's Key Thought:
Give anxieties to God
Bible Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21
As she sat working on her homework alone, Star didn't feel very loved. It was a holiday weekend, and all her friends had plans. Megan's parents were taking her to a waterpark. Emma was practicing tennis all weekend with her dad. Mila and her siblings were having fun playing on their new trampoline.
Star's mom was working in her home office. She didn't have a dad around or any siblings to spend time with. All she had was homework she had saved for the weekend, just to give herself something to do.
Star frowned at the paper in front her. Why had her teacher assigned her the word love to write about? She didn't know anything about love.
She picked up her phone and called Mila. She had to convince her friend to take a break from the trampoline so they could talk. "How am I supposed to write about love?" she asked. "No one loves me."
Mila snorted. "No one? What about me? And Emma and Megan?"
"That's…different." Star hadn't thought of her friends as she was considering the topic.
"What about your mom?" Mila asked. "She loves you."
Star glanced toward her mom's office. "She doesn't spend time with me."
"Because she's busy," Mila said. "She's busy because she loves you and needs to work to take care of you." She sighed. "What about God, Star? Aren't you forgetting that He loves you?"
Star twisted her hair around her finger. Maybe she had forgotten God. "Sometimes it doesn't feel like it."
"Maybe not," Mila said. "But He really does, Star. Like we learned at church, His love is bigger than any human love. Jesus died on the cross so you could live with Him forever. What love is bigger than that?"
Star nodded slowly. "You're right."
"You don't need to go on a trip or get amazing gifts in order to be loved," Mila said. "But, Star? I really am loving the new trampoline and I would like to get back to it. Since your mom is working, want me to ask my mom to give you a ride over so you can try it out?"
Star's eyes widened. "Really?"
"Really," Mila said. "Because I love you." She laughed. "Don't forget how much God loves you too, Star."
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Have you had times when you felt like you were not loved at all by anyone? God's love is greater than the love of any human--He loves you so much that He sent His Son to save you so you could spend eternity with Him, and He promises to always love you and take care of you. If you think about all the people He's put in your life, you'll probably realize you're loved by many others too.
Today's Key Verse:
As the Father loved Me, I also have loved you; abide in My love. (NKJV) (John 15:9)
Today's Key Thought:
God has great love for you!
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:12-15; Ephesians 4:25-32
Alastair walked into the kitchen where his sister Stasia was doing homework. "Emerson got in trouble again," said Alastair. "I can't believe he's going to flunk math over this!"
Stasia looked up in surprise. "Over what? What did he do?"
"Mr. Hoover caught him looking at somebody's paper during a test," Alastair replied. "Emerson said he was just checking one or two answers. That's all. I think Mr. Hoover just hates Emerson, so he's making a big deal out of nothing."
"Well, if Emerson was caught cheating, what did he expect?" Stasia asked.
"It's not like he was stealing somebody's money during gym class," said Alastair, trying to make his sister understand. "Other kids in school do a lot worse stuff than what Emerson did."
Alastair turned to Mom, who was loading the dishwasher. "Can you hand me a glass, Mom? I'd like some juice."
"Sure," said Mom, and she handed him a dirty glass.
Alastair grimaced. "Yuck! I can't drink out of this. There's still dried milk in the bottom of it."
"But it's cleaner than these others that need to be washed," Mom said.
Alastair didn't say anything right away. He was pretty sure this had something to do with what they were just talking about, and he was trying to figure out what it was.
"After all," Mom continued, "if cheating is no big deal because it doesn't seem as bad as what somebody else did, then a little dried milk in a glass shouldn't be a big deal either, as long as it's not as dirty as the other glasses."
"Oh, well, I…um…" Alastair didn't know what to say.
"It can be easy for us to excuse the wrongdoing of our friends--and especially our own wrongs--because someone else did something that seems worse," Mom explained. "But it's all sin in God's eyes. After all, cheating is stealing too--it's stealing the work someone else did and claiming it as your own, which is a sin, and it hurts them just as much as if you were stealing their money."
Alastair nodded. "Sorry, Mom." He looked at the glass in his hand. "I guess I'll wait to have some juice, since all the glasses are dirty."
–Mike A. Dize
How About You?
Do you think it's okay to do some things because they don't seem as bad as other things people do? Do you overlook cheating or lying because it's not as bad as robbery or murder? God says all wrongdoing is sin. No matter what other people think about it, it's hurtful to others and disobedient to God. Don't excuse any form of wrongdoing. If you're the one at fault, confess your sin to Jesus and He will forgive you.
Today's Key Verse:
All wrongdoing is sin. (NIV) (1 John 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
All wrongdoing is sin
Bible Reading: Matthew 14:22-23; Mark 1:35-39
Micah ran into the house and threw his backpack on the kitchen table. "Mom! Do we have any frozen pizza?"
He cocked his head. The house was silent. He looked down and noticed Mom's phone on the counter. That's weird, he thought. She usually carries it with her.
Micah walked back to his parents' bedroom and knocked. Mom opened the door. "Oh, hi, honey. I didn't hear you come in."
"You left your phone in the kitchen, Mom."
"I know, Micah," said Mom. "I was praying, and I didn't want to be disturbed."
"Praying? In the middle of the day?"
Mom smiled. "I always have prayer time while your sister naps. I'm usually finished before the bus drops you off. I guess I had a lot to tell God today!"
"But we pray together--at the dinner table, and at church. Isn't that enough?"
"Praying together is very important, but the Bible says to pray without ceasing--that means continually connecting with Him and seeking His wisdom in our lives. So it's good to spend time with Him on our own too. I find it helpful to have a place of solitude to do that. Even Jesus needed a quiet space sometimes--he often went onto a mountain to pray."
Micah considered this. "Maybe I should find a place of solitude too!"
First Micah tried the living room. He sat on the couch, closed his eyes, and--
"Hey, Micah!" His little sister Sophie plopped onto the couch and turned on the TV. "Time for my cartoons!"
Next Micah tried his bedroom. He shoved the toys off the bed, closed his eyes, and--
A big wet tongue gave his cheek a slobbery kiss.
"Not now, Puddles!" Micah laughed and scratched the old hound dog behind the ears. "I'm looking for solitude--but this house is too crowded!" A swirl of rustling leaves outside the window caught his eye. "I've got it!" he said and ran out of the house.
He climbed the strong branches of the oak tree and closed his eyes, feeling the spring breeze brush his face. Jesus climbed a mountain to find solitude, thought Micah. I only have to climb a tree!
–Jennifer Dillard
How About You?
Do you take a break from your everyday activities to spend time with God? If you find it hard to connect with God with everything going on around you, try to find a quiet place to pray. Jesus even had to take a break from those around Him to spend time with God. Take a moment away from the world's noise and busyness and connect with God.
Today's Key Verse:
Pray without ceasing. (NKJV) (1 Thessalonians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Spend time with God
Bible Reading: Psalm 102:25-28; Revelation 1:8
Holden climbed into the back seat of the car, eager to talk about what he'd learned in math class that day. "Mom, did you know that a number line doesn't have a beginning or an end? It's a line with every number on it, both positive and negative. Mr. Starke told us that number lines go on forever and ever in both directions, but that's kind of hard for me to understand."
"One, two, three," Millie counted out.
Holden giggled. "That's right, Millie, good counting. But when you get as big as me, you'll learn about negative numbers too."
"Are you understanding negative numbers?" Mom asked.
"Well, it's kind of confusing, but Mr. Starke said that by the end of this chapter we'll all have a better understanding of them. He sent home a practice worksheet."
"After dinner I'll look over it with you," Mom said. Holden's little sister continued to count for the rest of the ride home.
After dinner, Dad helped Mom clean up the kitchen while Holden took Millie to her room to play. Then Dad took Millie to the living room so Mom could help Holden with his math.
"Did you finish?" Dad asked when Holden and Mom came in a little later.
Holden nodded. "All done, and I think I understand my math a little better now. Number lines don't have a beginning or end because you can always count higher in either direction from zero, with positive numbers going forward and negative numbers going back."
Dad nodded. "Did you know that God doesn't have a beginning or an end? Your number line made me think about that this evening." Dad took out his phone and looked up a verse. "In Revelation 1:8 God says, 'I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come--the Almighty One.'"
"I think I get it," said Holden. "Since we were created by God, we have a beginning, but God doesn't have a starting point because He always existed."
"That's right," said Mom. "And the story doesn't stop there. God promises us eternal life if we accept His free gift of salvation, which means we will live forever with Him."
"That's so cool!" Holden exclaimed.
"One, two, three!" Millie shouted out.
"Good counting, Millie," Holden said, and everyone laughed.
–Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Did you know that God has no beginning and no end? That can be hard for us to understand because we were all created by God and have a starting point, but God wasn't created. He always was and always will be, and He offers us eternal life with Him. If we put our trust in Jesus, we will live with Him forever, and our joy will never end! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
"I am…the beginning and the end," says the Lord God. "I am the one who is, who always was, and who is still to come--the Almighty One." (NLT) (Revelation 1:8)
Today's Key Thought:
God has no beginning or end
Bible Reading: Luke 2:41-52
Josiah looked at the craft he'd made in Sunday school. It was a box covered in construction paper that said "Jesus loves you, and He'll always take care of you" on the top. Josiah sighed. Those words didn't make him feel especially happy. I already have too many people taking care of me, he thought. Between his parents and his two older sisters, it seemed like someone was always concerned about him or telling him what to do. And now Jesus was watching over him too.
"Hi, Josiah," his sister Miriam said when he came out of his class. "Abigail and I will walk you to the car." After Josiah put on his coat, Miriam made sure it was zipped all the way to his chin. "It's cold outside, and we don't want you getting sick!" she said.
"You'd better wear your gloves too," said Abigail. "Here, I'll help you."
She took one of Josiah's gloves and was about to put it on his hand when he grabbed it from her. "I got it," he said, hoping no one from his class was watching.
When they reached the car, Abigail opened the door so Josiah could climb into the back seat.
"All set?" asked Dad as he started the car. "Did you all enjoy Sunday school and youth group?"
"Yeah," said Josiah. "I made this." He handed the box to his mother.
"Jesus loves you, and He'll always take care of you," Mom read. "That's something I need to remember."
"Jesus is taking care of you too?" asked Josiah in surprise.
Mom nodded. "Jesus promises to take care of all those who trust in Him, no matter how old we are."
"Oh. Well, I have too many people taking care of me!" Josiah replied with a frown.
Dad smiled. "It must seem like a lot of people are always telling you what to do, but we all do that because we love you. One way Jesus takes care of us is by giving us a family so we can care for one another."
Josiah turned the idea over in his mind. So Jesus uses Mom and Dad and my sisters to take care of me, he thought. I guess having so many people watching out for me is a good thing after all!
–Agnes Kempton
How About You?
Are you grateful for your family? Not all families look the same, but God provides people in your life to love and care for you because He loves and cares for you. Even Jesus had a family who showed love and concern for Him when He was on earth. Think of all the people God has put in your life to help take care of you and thank Him for each one of them.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord is the One Who goes before you. He will be with you. He will be faithful to you and will not leave you alone. (NLV) (Deuteronomy 31:8 )
Today's Key Thought:
Thank God for your family
Bible Reading: Matthew 14:22-25
"I'm done." Mom wiped her eyes and pushed back from the table. "I need a break."
Reagan didn't remember the last time she had seen her mom cry, and this time it was over a sewing machine? She looked at the fabric that was supposed to become a costume for her school play. "You're not going to finish that?"
"Not right now." Mom went to the refrigerator and pulled out a bottle of water. "I'm going outside."
Reagan watched as her mom went out onto the deck. She stood at the railing, sipping her water and staring at their yard.
Reagan stepped over to the door. After a few moments, Mom set her water on the patio table and stretched her arms. Her lips were moving, as if she might be talking to herself.
Mom caught her gaze, and Reagan stepped back. She hadn't meant for her mom to know that she was watching her. Mom motioned for her to come outside.
"It's a beautiful day," she said as Reagan came out onto the deck. Her face looked much different than it had when she was at the sewing machine. She almost looked happy.
Reagan walked over to the porch rail. "Are you going to finish my costume?"
Mom smiled. "Yes. I just needed a break." She reached over and put a hand on Reagan's head. "The machine wasn't working right, and it was frustrating me. Remember how frustrated you got the other night when you couldn't solve your math problem?"
Reagan nodded, her face feeling suddenly warm. "I dumped my whole pencil case all over the floor."
"What could you have done instead?" Mom asked.
"Taken a break?" Reagan guessed.
"Right." Mom messed up Reagan's hair. "Even Jesus did that. There were times when He felt the need to get away. He took breaks to pray, and I think He would want us to take breaks to cool down rather than have us blow up."
"It does feel nice to be outside," said Reagan.
"Outside. In your room alone. Exercising somewhere." Mom nodded. "When we're frustrated, just taking a breather--and maybe saying a little prayer to God too--can help us feel better."
–Emily Acker
How About You?
What do you do when something frustrates you? Do you throw the game to the floor, tackle your sibling, give up on the project, or shout at everyone around you? Next time taking a break to get away, just for a little while, could help you feel better. Jesus understands what it's like to need a break, and He's always there to listen and help you. Take some time to rest and tell Him how you feel.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus often went away to other places to be alone so that he could pray. (ERV) (Luke 5:16 )
Today's Key Thought:
Take a break to calm down
Bible Reading: Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:4-7
"We made cinnamon biscuits for tomorrow's bake sale at school today," announced Lexi, bounding up the steps and into the house. "Miss Summers took us to the kitchen and helped us. They were gooey and deeeelicious! We were each allowed to have one after all the other ones had been packaged."
"They sound great!" said Mom. "I'll have to buy some tomorrow. Maybe we can even make them at home sometime."
"Yeah!" said Lexi. "It would be even more fun making them here. At school we each only put in a couple of the ingredients. I got stuck with measuring the dry stuff--the flour and salt and baking powder. It was okay, but I would have liked to mix the gooey part."
"Well, you did have an important job," said Mom. "And it sounds like the biscuits turned out well--light and fluffy, right?"
"Oh, yes!" Lexi sighed as she thought about them. "They were light and fluffy and so yummy!"
"Without the baking powder, they would have been flat and hard," said Mom. "It was your baking powder that made the biscuits light and fluffy."
"Really?" Lexi looked surprised. "Well, then maybe I had the most important job of all, even if it wasn't as much fun to do as the gooey part."
"Not necessarily. All the ingredients were important, not just the baking powder," said Mom. "Every team member had an important job to do." She looked at Lexi. "We're something like recipe ingredients too."
"What do you mean by that?" asked Lexi, perplexed.
Mom laughed. "I mean that God has given unique gifts and abilities to each of us--all different, but all needed. As Christians work together and use our different gifts, we show the world God's love and point people to Jesus. It's easy to make judgments about how big or small someone's skills might be, including our own, but each gift is equally important. All of our abilities were given to us by God, and He wants us to use them to serve Him and show His love to other people."
"I think I get it," said Lexi. She grinned. "Okay. I'll be the very best ingredient I can be--even if I'm not the gooey part!"
–Della R. Oberholtzer
How About You?
Have you ever wished you could do something someone else could do? Do you feel like your role in God's work in the world isn't as important as someone else's? God loves each of us dearly and has given us special gifts. As Christians work together, each talent and ability is important in helping more people know about Jesus. Know that God sees all you do and is glorified when you use your gifts to show His love to others.
Today's Key Verse:
There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. (NIV) (1 Corinthians 12:4 )
Today's Key Thought:
Everybody is important to God's work
Bible Reading: James 1:21-25
Hurry up, Dad, thought Landon as his dad read a Bible passage aloud. Landon was anxious for morning devotions to end so the day's fishing trip could begin. It seemed like a long time before Dad finally closed with prayer.
"Okay, let's go!" said Landon as soon as Dad said "Amen." He grinned at his mother. "We'll bring you some fish for dinner."
When they got to the river, Landon and Dad quickly cast their fishing lines into the water. They talked as they waited for the fish to bite, but they didn't get even one nibble. "Maybe they heard us talk about frying them!" joked Landon as he and Dad moved along the riverbank to try a different spot.
A few minutes later, something tugged at Landon's line. "I've got a bite!" he exclaimed. He reeled in his catch. "My dinner!" he announced, holding the fish above his head. Landon frowned as he took the fish off the hook and inspected it. "I thought talking too loud was scaring the fish away, but fish don't even have ears."
"Sure they do," said Dad. "You just can't see them. Fish have internal ears--that is, ears on the inside--not external ones like us." He tugged gently on Landon's ear. "But you know what?"
Landon shook his head. "What?"
"Well," said Dad, "even though our ears are on the outside of our heads, our most important hearing takes place on the inside in our hearts. That happens when we listen carefully to the message God has for us. His message is in the Bible--it tells us about our need for Jesus and how we should live as God's children who have been freed from sin. When we listen to that message, God helps us live out its truth."
Landon thought about their devotions that morning. He had heard Dad's voice, but he knew he hadn't listened with his heart to God's message. "I didn't do a good job of that this morning."
Dad patted his shoulder. "None of us listen perfectly all the time, but God is patient with us. He's also given us the Holy Spirit to help us listen and act on His words."
Landon nodded. "Maybe tonight I'll reread the devotions and listen better this time." He grinned. "After I eat some freshly caught fish, that is!"
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
How well do you listen when someone reads the Bible or talks about what it means? Do you just hear words, or do you hear a message from God and take it to heart? Every single one of God's words is specially given to us so that we can know God better and experience His love and power in our lives. Trust Him to help you listen to all He says with your heart and put it into practice.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus replied, "But even more blessed are all who hear the word of God and put it into practice." (NLT) (Luke 11:28)
Today's Key Thought:
Listen to God with your heart
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:1-4
"Who would like to take this form to the principal for me?" asked Mrs. Li. "It's very important, and he's waiting for it." Flynn raised his hand high for his teacher to see. "Flynn, you may go," she said.
Flynn proudly walked to the principal's office with the form in his hand. But when he got there, the principal wasn't there. He dropped the form on the principal's desk and walked slowly back to class. "Some important job," he muttered to himself.
At recess, Flynn collected all the balls from around the playground and put them in the bin. No one seemed to notice.
On his way home, a woman dropped her keys on the sidewalk. Flynn scooped them up and handed them back to her. But she scurried away without even a "thank you." Flynn sighed and trudged home.
His mom was in the kitchen when he arrived. "Want a snack?" she asked. Flynn shrugged. "What's wrong, Flynn?" asked Mom. "Everything okay?"
"My teacher at church says that since Jesus saved us we're supposed to do good deeds to show others His love and that we have faith in Him. But what's the point if no one even notices the good things I do?"
Mom paused. "Do you remember the year Dad was out of work?" she asked.
"Yeah," said Flynn. He did remember. It was a hard year.
"And do you remember how a grocery card and Bible verse appeared in our mailbox every single week?" asked Mom. Again Flynn nodded. "Those verses and gift cards kept us going during a very hard time, but we never found out who was behind it," Mom said. "Why didn't they let us thank them?"
"I guess it just made them feel good to help us," said Flynn.
"I'm sure it did," said Mom. "But I also think they knew that the Bible tells us to do our good deeds in secret and that God, who sees everything, will reward us. Even though your good deeds may not get any appreciation here on earth, keep doing them. God sees every good thing you do for others out of the love He has shown you, and He knows you're doing them for Him."
–Laura Kuehn
How About You?
Do you get frustrated when the good things you do are not appreciated by others? Don't stop doing good. Jesus, who loves you so much that He died for your sins to make you God's child, appreciates every good thing you do out of the love you have for Him. Remember that you are serving Him, not people, and that He will reward you in His way and in His time.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (NIV) (Galatians 6:9)
Today's Key Thought:
God sees your good deeds
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:12-19
Grace and Alicia got off the bus and walked to Grace's front door. "Our church is having a kids' festival on Saturday," said Grace. "We'll have crafts and food, and the high schoolers will perform a drama about Jesus's death and resurrection. You want to come?"
"Nah," said Alicia. "My parents say church is made up of people who believe in silly things. Besides, I think it's crazy to think that something that happened so long ago makes any difference in people's lives today." Alyssa quickly changed the subject. "What topic did Mr. Larsen give you for your history project? I got Armistice Day. Mr. Larsen said that was the day World War I ended. What did you get?"
"The Lusitania," said Grace. "Mr. Larsen said that was a British ship that was torpedoed right before the war. I don't know much about it, but I think my parents have a picture of it."
Grace's mom greeted them when they walked in. "Did you get your project topics today?" she asked.
"Alicia got Armistice Day, and I got the Lusitania," said Grace. "Don't you have a picture of that around here somewhere?"
"I do," Mom said. "Because you know what, Grace? If the Lusitania hadn't been destroyed by a torpedo, you wouldn't be here!"
Grace was puzzled. "What do you mean?"
"Your great-great-grandfather's first wife was sailing from New York to England to visit her very ill father. She was on the Lusitania and lost her life when it went down. A few years later, your great-great-grandfather married again and your great-grandmother was born, followed by my mother and then me and then you. None of us would've been here without the Lusitania sinking. Life would've been very different for our family if that event hadn't happened."
"Wow," Grace said, "I didn't know that." Then she thought of something. "Alicia, you said a long-ago event couldn't make a difference in our lives today, but that's not true! Just like the Lusitania changed lives in our family, Jesus's death and resurrection changes lives too! What He did changes everything, because now anyone can be forgiven for their sins and have a relationship with God."
"I never thought about it like that," said Alicia. "Maybe I'll go with you Saturday after all."
–Linda Weddle
How About You?
Is there a historical event that changed your family's history? What about Jesus's death and resurrection--has that made a difference in your life? If God hadn't sent His Son to die for our sins and then raised Him from the dead, we wouldn't be able to have His joy and peace in our lives and the promise of eternal life with Him. Jesus changes lives, and if you trust in Him, He will change yours today! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and…He was buried, and…He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 15:3-4 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus's death and resurrection changes lives
Bible Reading: Acts 20:17-21
"The British are coming! The British are coming!" Jacob cried as he spurred his horse past Uncle Eric and thundered through the pasture back toward the barn.
Uncle Eric soon caught up. "You must have learned about the Revolutionary War and how Paul Revere warned the colonists that enemy troops were coming," he said as they slowed the horses to a walk for the rest of the way in.
Jacob grinned and nodded. "I wish I could have lived back then. Riding at night to warn people of danger must have been really exciting!"
Uncle Eric shrugged. "Exciting, yes, but don't you think it sounds scary too? How many of us would really have dared to do that and risked getting captured?"
"I would have!" Jacob exclaimed as he dismounted and led his horse inside the barn to rub him down.
"Maybe," said Uncle Eric thoughtfully. "But we have an even more important message to share with people, yet sometimes fear keeps me from sharing it."
Jacob looked doubtful. "What do we have to tell people about?"
Uncle Eric began to rub down his horse. "God has given Christians the task of sharing His message of love with the world. We need to tell people that Jesus died and rose again to free us from sin and that the only way we can be forgiven for our wrongs and have eternal life is by trusting in Him."
"Oh!" Jacob frowned. "Won't they think we're kind of weird?"
"Do you think Paul Revere worried about what people might think when he warned them that the British were coming?" asked Uncle Eric. Jacob shook his head. "But we worry about things like that, don't we?" said Uncle Eric. "Our message is far more important than Paul Revere's, yet we often keep quiet out of fear of being embarrassed or judged. But time is short, just like it was for Paul Revere. Jesus is coming again one day to bring all those who trust in Him to live with Him forever, and no one knows when that will be. That's why we need to depend on Him to give us the courage to tell others about Him now."
Jacob latched the door shut behind his horse and got an idea. "Next time we ride, maybe I'll shout, 'Jesus is coming! Jesus is coming!'"
–Jean A. Burns
How About You?
Have you ever shared the message of Jesus's love and forgiveness with someone? God wants every single person on this planet to experience His love, and He wants us to be part of His work! If you trust Jesus as your Savior, you can ask Him to give you the words to say and the opportunity to share the good news of His love with others.
Today's Key Verse:
And then [Jesus] told them, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone." (NLT) (Mark 16:15 )
Today's Key Thought:
Share the message of Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalms 23; 139:1-6; Matthew 7:9-11
"Layla is crying again," Kiera told her aunt. "What do you think she wants this time?"
"She's probably hungry," said Aunt Michelle as she picked up her five-week-old baby.
"She can't do anything for herself, can she?" asked Kiera. "You have to pick her up and carry her. You dress her, you feed her, you rock her, and you have to give her baths."
"That's right," said Aunt Michelle. "Right now your little cousin depends on me for almost everything. I take care of her day and night."
When Kiera returned home, she told her parents all about Baby Layla. "Aunt Michelle must get really tired," said Kiera. "She has so much work to do. She does everything but breathe for that baby!"
"We were all babies like that once," Dad said. "You were too, and Mom and I did the same things for you."
"Well, I'm not like that anymore," replied Kiera, standing tall. "I take care of myself."
"I'm still like a baby in some ways," said Mom. Kiera giggled. "But I am!" Mom insisted. "I depend on my Father for everything. Sometimes I get upset because He doesn't meet my needs right when I want Him to. But most of the time I rest, trusting my Father to care for me."
"But Grandpa lives in California!" said Kiera. "You don't depend on him to take care of you."
Dad smiled. "Mom isn't talking about her earthly father. She's talking about God--her heavenly Father."
Mom nodded. "My heavenly Father is with me day and night. I need Him all the time."
"We all do," said Dad. "Aunt Michelle loves Baby Layla, so she's happy to take care of all her needs. But just think of how much more God loves us, and how much more capable He is in providing everything we need. When we needed a Savior to rescue us from sin, God loved us enough to send His own Son, Jesus."
"Right," Mom said. "Unlike human parents caring for their children, God knows what we need before we can even ask for it."
"Well, then I guess it's okay to be like a baby in that way," said Kiera. "I know I want God to take good care of me!"
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Do you know that in some ways you're like a baby? Even though you're much bigger and able to do lots of things a baby can't, you still need to depend on God. He gives you the air you breathe and provides everything you need. He knows how to best care for you and understands your deepest needs and desires. Trust that He is a good Father to you--His precious child.
Today's Key Verse:
If you…know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who ask him. (CSB) (Matthew 7:11)
Today's Key Thought:
God takes care of you
Bible Reading: Galatians 3:11-13; 4:4-7
"Mom, what does 'redeem' mean?" asked Brock.
"Redeem?" repeated Mom. "It means to buy back. Why?"
Brock pointed to a coupon in a paper. "This coupon for popsicles says it will be 'redeemed in accordance with company policy.' Does that mean somebody will buy the coupon back?"
Mom nodded. "An ice cream company put that coupon in the paper to get people to buy their popsicles. After the coupon is used at the store, the ice cream company will redeem it--they'll buy it back by giving the store the amount of money the customer saved with the coupon."
Brock's sister Madeline looked at the coupon. "I'd rather have ice cream bars," she said. "Do you think they'd let us use the coupon for that?"
"I don't think they'd allow that," Mom replied. "'Redeemed in accordance with company policy' means according to their redemption policy--their rules." She looked at the kids thoughtfully. "You know, the Bible talks about redemption too," she said.
"You mean people way back in Bible times used coupons?" asked Madeline.
Brock grinned. "I don't think so! I'm sure they didn't have coupons back then."
Mom laughed. "No, but when Jesus died on the cross, He paid the price for us to be redeemed by God. Everyone has sinned and strayed away from God, but Jesus gave His life to buy us back."
"So does that mean God has a redemption policy like this ice cream company does?" Brock asked, holding up the coupon.
"Yes," Mom said. "And that means we have to be redeemed according to God's rules. God has a pretty simple redemption policy, but people often don't want to follow it. They want to make their own rules. Many people think they're not really so bad or that the good things they do will get them into heaven."
"But that's not God's way of redeeming us, is it?" said Madeline.
"No," said Mom. "God's redemption policy requires that we confess our sin and our need for Him to redeem us. We must believe that Jesus really did die to save us. We need to trust in Him as our Redeemer--our Savior."
"I've done that!" Brock said.
"Me too," said Madeline. She looked at her brother. "So we've both been redeemed!"
– Lyndel F. Walker
How About You?
Have you taken advantage of God's redemption offer? Or are you trying to get to heaven according to your own plan? It doesn't work that way. You can only be redeemed and have eternal life with God in accordance with His redemption policy. Jesus paid the price of your redemption. Trust Him as your Redeemer today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
In [Jesus] we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. (NKJV) (Colossians 1:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus and be redeemed
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:17
Jadyn thrust his blue foam sword at his brother's arm and shouted, "Ha! I got you."
Tyler smacked his green foam sword across Jadyn's leg and yelled back, "I hit your leg! You can't fight now."
"I don't need two legs. I will fight you to the death!" Jadyn hopped on one foot and sliced his sword down, narrowly missing Tyler's hand.
"Well, I will fight you until snack time!" Tyler swung his sword high in the air with both hands, his eyes wide with intensity.
"Snack time!" Mom called from the front porch.
The boys tossed their swords to the ground like paper airplanes taking a nose dive and scrambled to get to Mom first.
"You boys having fun?" Mom sat on the front step as she handed out the snacks. Tyler took a large bite out of his apple, while Jadyn put an entire granola bar in his mouth and chewed like a squirrel saving nuts for winter.
"We are the strongest boys on the block, and we have the best weapons!" Tyler said with apple juice running down his chin.
"Yeah, we're good fighters," Jadyn mumbled through his mouth full of granola.
"I believe it," Mom said. "But there's an even more powerful weapon than your blue and green swords. Do you know you can have the greatest weapon of all time?"
The boys' eyes bulged as they looked at each other in excitement. "Really? Where is it?" Tyler asked as he took another bite of his apple.
"Well, Ephesians 6:17 says that we have the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. There isn't anything more powerful in the world than the Word of God. That's why we memorize Bible verses--to keep our sharp swords ready for use."
"I don't get it. How can words be swords?" Jadyn asked.
"Remember when you were scared last week, and we read a verse about God's peace?" asked Mom. "You felt better after that. That's God's Word going to battle for you. It reminded you that you belong to Jesus and can have His peace in any situation."
"Oh, I get it," said Tyler. "We'll be sharpening our God-swords when we do our devotions tonight!" He looked at his brother. "But now, we fight!" The boys laughed and ran to pick up their swords.
– Tannis Oliveri
How About You?
Do you want to be strong and courageous? Do you want the best weapon to help you defeat the enemies in your life? Then take time to make sure God's Word is in your heart and mind. When you feel attacked, you'll be able to bring His Word to your situation. Let its truth speak God's power into your life as you read it, study it, and remember what it says.
Today's Key Verse:
For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword. (NKJV) (Hebrews 4:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Read and memorize God's Word
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-34
Elliot looked out the kitchen window. It had rained all morning, but now the sun was shining brightly. The leaves on the big tree outside were golden and seemed to glow in the sunlight. If only those leaves could be turned into real gold, thought Elliot. Then Mom and I could solve all our problems. He sighed. He couldn't help worrying now that his mom had lost her job. Things had already been tight before--how would they manage now? Turning toward his mother, he asked, "What are we going to do about money, Mom?"
"Don't you worry about that," said Mom. "I have a bit saved up, and I'm sure I'll find another job soon. There are lots of jobs available in the medical field."
As Mom stood beside Elliot at the window, several sparrows swooped down and perched on the volleyball net someone had set up in the courtyard of their apartment building. Under the weight of the birds, the net sagged and swayed in the wind. Soon the thin, weak poles that supported the net became uprooted, and everything crashed to the ground. Elliot and Mom watched as the frightened birds flew away.
"You know, Elliot," said Mom, "that flimsy net is like money and material things. When we count on them to hold us up in times of trouble, they always fail, just like that net failed those birds. Aren't you glad we can count on someone who never fails?"
"You mean God, don't you?" said Elliot.
"That's right," said Mom. "I'm thinking of a verse you learned at camp this summer--the one about birds. Do you remember it?"
"About birds?" Elliot thought about it. "I think I remember. We learned Matthew 6:26, which says, 'Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?'"
Mom nodded. "God takes care of the birds, and He'll provide for our needs too. Jesus has already provided for our biggest need of all by saving us from sin and giving us eternal life. Because of that, He is always with us, and we can trust Him to take care of us."
Elliot smiled. "I'm glad He never fails."
– Dorothy R. King
How About You?
Do you know someone who is out of work? Or maybe you're worried your own family might not have enough money for all the things you need. Pray about it, and trust God to provide. He loves you so much that He sent His own Son to die for your sins, and He cares more about you than you could ever imagine. You can trust Him to provide you with everything you need.
Today's Key Verse:
My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (NIV) (Philippians 4:19 )
Today's Key Thought:
God provides all you need
Bible Reading: Ephesians 2:14-18
"Okay, class, change of plans," called Miss Allen from the front of the bus. Ana could barely hear her because of the wind and rain beating against the bus windows. "Due to the storm, we're not going to be able to visit the zoo today after all. However, the state capitol is not far away, and they said they could fit us in for a last-minute tour, so we'll be going there instead."
All the kids groaned except for Ana's friend Evelyn, who bounced up and down in the seat next to her.
When they got to the capitol building, a tour guide greeted them at the door and led them down a long hallway decorated with gaudy statues.
"This is boring," one of the boys complained. He tugged on the tour guide's sleeve. "Can we see the governor?"
The tour guide shook his head. "As much as he would like to, the governor isn't able to visit with every school class that comes through. Thousands of kids visit the building each year."
Just then several important-looking people emerged from the elevator.
"That's the governor in the gray suit," the tour guide whispered.
Suddenly Evelyn started running toward the group of people. "Uncle Mike!" she called out.
The governor turned and held out his arms when he saw Evelyn to give her a hug, then he walked her back to her class, who were all staring at them open-mouthed. "My niece tells me your field trip to the zoo didn't work out," he said. "Maybe you kids would like to see my office instead?"
That night Ana excitedly told her family about everything her class had seen at the capitol that day, thanks to Evelyn.
"Like they say, it all depends on who you know," said her older brother.
"True," said Dad. "Evelyn gave you access to the governor. She was your go-between."
Ana smiled. "I know what you're going to say next, Dad. In our devotions this week, we talked about Jesus being our go-between--the mediator between us and God. Through Him we have access to our heavenly Father because Jesus paid the price for our sin and made us right with God."
"I'm glad you were listening, Ana--and your trip to the capitol today is a perfect example."
– Linda Weddle
How About You?
Have you ever gotten to meet someone well-known or go somewhere special because of who you know? Did you know that, because of Jesus, you can have access to God? You can't approach God on your own because of your sin, but Jesus died to take your sins away. Anyone who trusts in Him has full access to God. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus. (NIV) (1 Timothy 2:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is our mediator
Bible Reading: Philippians 2:13-16
"Whenever I get home from school, all I want is food that's cool," chanted Marina, making up the rhyme as she opened the freezer and took out an ice cream bar. She grinned at her brother Archer.
Archer rolled his eyes and made up a rhyme of his own. "I think your rhyme is kind of sad--your poetry is really bad."
Marina laughed and went outside to where her mother was working in the garden. "Hello, Mother with a thumb that's green. You have the best vegetables I've seen."
Mom smiled. "Still working on that poem you need for school?"
"I'm trying, but all I can think of are silly things," said Marina.
When Dad arrived home, Marina greeted him with another one of her rhymes. "Dad, your work day is finally done. Now it's time to have some fun!"
"Oh, Marina, I think your poems are getting worse," said Archer. "How about this? Mom, that chicken pasta looks so yummy. I want to put it in my tummy!"
Dad laughed and joined in. "My family's always such a delight. It's a joy to be with them each night." As he sat down at the table, he said, "Actually, I know of a very special poem. It's mentioned in the Bible--in Ephesians 2:10."
"That was our verse at church last week!" exclaimed Marina. "It says, 'For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.' But that doesn't rhyme like a poem, and it doesn't say anything about a poem."
"The word handiwork comes from the Greek word poiema--that's the word we get our English word poem from," Dad explained. "So to say we are God's handiwork is like saying we are His poem."
"I like that," said Marina with a grin.
Dad smiled. "And just like a poem can bring joy to people through its words, you can bring joy to people through your good works--the good things you do for others that show them the love of Jesus. God created us to do these things and gave us the Holy Spirit to guide us in doing them. We are His poems that tell the story of the great things He has done for us."
Marina's eyes lit up. "God is our Creator, and He made us for something greater!"
– Lyndel F. Walker
How About You?
Do you have a favorite poem? If you're a Christian, remember that you are God's poem, created to love Him and bless others. God created you with unique gifts and passions, and He gave you the Holy Spirit to help you do the good things He calls you to do. When you love and help other people, you're pointing them toward your Author--Jesus Christ.
Today's Key Verse:
For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV) (Ephesians 2:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Christians are God's poems
Bible Reading: Psalm 57:7-11
"Let's get ready for church," said Dad. "We don't want to be late."
"Dad says that every week," Amos told his sister, Maggie. "We should get ready early some Sunday, just to see if it's really Dad talking or if it's a recording that plays every week." Dad grinned and nodded.
When they arrived at church, no other cars were there. "That's odd," said Mom. "I wonder what--" She stopped and pulled out her phone. "Oh no!" she exclaimed. "We're an hour early! Last spring we moved the clocks ahead an hour, and last night we were supposed to set them back again." They could hardly believe that no one had remembered to change the clocks around the house.
"While we wait, let's get ready for church," suggested Dad.
Maggie giggled. "It must be a recording after all, Amos. We woke up, ate breakfast, cleaned up, got dressed, and even came to church a whole hour early--but the recording is still going off!"
Dad laughed with the rest of the family. "We prepared our bodies," he said, "but it would be good to prepare our hearts for worship too, and today we have time."
"We can't feed our hearts breakfast," said Amos.
"Sure we can. We can feed on God's Word for a few minutes." Dad opened his Bible and read a short passage aloud.
"Okay, but we can't wash our hearts, can we?" asked Maggie when Dad finished reading.
"Sure we can," said Dad. "We can search our hearts and confess sins to Jesus, and He'll cleanse us."
"We can't dress our hearts though," said Amos.
"Sure we can!" Maggie echoed Dad's words before he could say them. Then she looked at her parents. "But how?"
"How about by praising God?" suggested Mom. "Singing praises to Him can help set our mood for worship. What should we sing?" Amos suggested a praise song, and Maggie wanted an old hymn she liked, so the family sang them both.
"Maybe we should do this every Sunday and really get ready for church," Maggie said as other cars began to arrive.
"Is that my recording I hear?" asked Dad. They all left the car smiling.
– Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Do you prepare your heart as well as your body for worship? It's good to be clean and look nice, but it's also important to make sure your heart is ready to worship God and learn from His Word. Next time you get ready for a church service, pray that God would soften your heart and open your eyes and ears to the things He has for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will prepare their heart. (NKJV) (Psalm 10:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Prepare your heart for worship
Bible Reading: John 3:3; 14:1-6; 1 Peter 1:3-5
"Do you really believe what your Sunday school teacher said?" asked Oscar. He was spending the weekend with his friend Michael while his parents were out of town. "Your teacher said some people won't go to heaven. If that's true, who gets to go? Do you? Do I?"
"Like Mr. George said, only people who trust Jesus as their Savior will go to heaven," Michael replied.
"Well, I don't get it," said Oscar. "Can we ask your dad?" Michael nodded, and the boys went to the living room where Michael's father was reading. Oscar cleared his throat. "Hey, Mr. Woods, everybody will go to heaven, right?"
Mr. Woods shook his head. "Not everybody." He looked at Oscar and rubbed his chin. "Oscar, when you go home after school each day, do you ever ask yourself, 'Will Mom let me stay for dinner?' Or, 'Will my parents give me a bed to sleep in tonight?' Or maybe, 'What will I do if Mom and Dad don't let me in the house today?' Do questions like that ever come to your mind?"
Oscar laughed at such a ridiculous idea. "Of course not! I'm their kid, so it's my home."
"Well, it's the same way with God's family," said Mr. Woods. "When you trust Jesus as your Savior, you become a child of God--part of His family--and your home is in heaven with Him. If you haven't trusted in Jesus, you're not part of God's family, and heaven isn't your home."
Michael turned to his friend and asked, "Are you part of God's family, Oscar?" Slowly, Oscar shook his head.
"You can be," Mr. Woods told him. "You were physically born into your parents' family, so you're their son. To be part of God's family, you need to be born again--not physically, but spiritually."
"How do I do that?" asked Oscar.
"That's the best part--God has already done all the work for us! Jesus died on the cross for our sins and rose again so that we could have eternal life with Him. When we trust that His work is enough to make us part of God's family, we have a home with Him forever." Mr. Woods picked up his Bible. "Come sit and let me explain, okay?"
Oscar nodded. "Okay," he said and took a seat.
– Nani T. Bell
How About You?
Is your home in heaven with Jesus? The Bible says that everyone who trusts Jesus as their Savior is born into God's family, and their home is with Him. The only way to have eternal life is through Jesus. Trust in Him today, and you will have a home with Him in heaven forever. Is your home in heaven with Jesus? The Bible says that everyone who trusts Jesus as their Savior is born into God's family, and their home is with Him. The only way to have eternal life is through Jesus. Trust in Him today, and you will have a home with Him in heaven forever. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. (NLT) (Philippians 3:20)
Today's Key Thought:
Heaven is home for Christians
Bible Reading: Psalm 136:1-9
"Our room is going to look so cool!" Ivy said as she set her brush down and took a seat on the floor. She and her twin sister, Elinor, had just finished painting their room completely black. After it dried, they were going to put star-shaped glow-in-the-dark stickers all over the walls.
"It's going to be like sleeping outside!" Elinor said.
"Okay, now we need to decide how we're going to put the stickers up," said Ivy. "Do we want to do some sort of pattern or just put them up randomly?"
Just then Mom walked in. "The walls look good, girls." She turned on the overhead light. "I'm glad you're going to add the stickers though, otherwise it would be pretty dark in here."
"Thanks, Mom," said Elinor. "That light helps--it's only three in the afternoon and it's already getting hard to see in here!"
"Yeah," said Ivy. "Can you imagine what it would be like if God had made the sky completely black, without any stars or light?"
"That would be pretty dark," replied Elinor. "Do you remember when we first moved here and we'd try to find the bathroom in the middle of the night with no lights on?"
"I do," said Mom. "You girls got so many bruises from running into things that we finally had to get a night light."
"Yes, and we were sure thankful for it!" Elinor picked up a star sticker from the floor. "I'm thankful God gives us night lights outside too. The stars and moon are beautiful to look at."
"And bright," added Ivy. "When the sky is clear and the moon is full, we don't even need the house light on to play basketball."
Mom nodded. "Sometimes we take for granted all that God has created and provided for us. It's important to remember to pause and thank Him for everything. I'm thankful that Jesus is the light of my life and that He loves me enough to die for my sins."
Ivy sat up. "Elinor, that gives me an idea for how we should arrange the stickers! Let's scatter them around, but in the center of one of the walls, we form the words 'Give Thanks.'"
"Let's do it!" said Elinor. "That will be a good reminder to thank God for everything He's done for us."
– Melissa Yeagle
How About You?
Do you remember to thank God for everything He's given you? He created this beautiful world for us to enjoy and provides for our needs each day. He gave us His own Son, Jesus, who died and rose again to save us from sin so we could live with Him forever. What are some things you're thankful for today? Take a few moments to pray and give thanks to God for the wonderful things He's given you.
Today's Key Verse:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. (NKJV) (Psalm 136:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Give thanks to God
Bible Reading: Psalm 118:6-9; Isaiah 41:10
Danae was excited when she returned home from an afternoon of horseback riding. "That was so much fun!" she told her family. "We went on a trail ride through the woods. My horse was spooked once, but I didn't fall off!"
"Spooked?" asked Dallas, Danae's little brother. "Did you see a ghost?"
Danae laughed. "No, Dallas. It's just that when horses see something they don't expect--like a piece of paper blowing in the wind--they might all of a sudden jump sideways or try to run away. We call that being spooked. If you're not a good rider, you might fall off when the horse does that."
"Horses are so big!" said Dallas. "Why would papers scare them?"
Danae shrugged. "I don't know. They just do. But if the horse knows you and trusts you, he usually calms down and you can get him to go places he'd be scared to go otherwise."
"Sounds like you've learned a lot about horses and how to ride them," said Dad. "Your description of how a horse responds when he trusts his rider is a good picture of how we should respond when we truly trust God."
Danae tilted her head. "You mean we shouldn't be afraid to go wherever God wants us to go because we can trust Him to take care of us?"
"Exactly," said Dad. "We need to trust Him in every situation. Sometimes we get spooked when unexpected things happen in our lives. We need to learn to trust God to take us through all the scary places."
"Like when Mom was diagnosed with cancer?" asked Dallas. "That was scary."
Mom nodded. "It was scary for me too. But your dad's right--we can trust God to take care of us in scary situations like that. Even though I was afraid of what might happen, I knew that because Jesus died to save me, He would always be with me through everything. Knowing that gave me peace and helped me not be afraid."
"I didn't know I'd learn all this just from horseback riding," Danae said.
A mischievous grin crept across Dallas's face. "Maybe it's time for me to take lessons too so we can all learn more about Jesus!"
– Deborah S. Marett
How About You?
What things in life spook you--what scares you or makes you nervous? When you face scary situations, remember that Jesus is with you and in control of everything that happens. He loves you so much that He gave His life for you, and He promises to take care of you. Trust Him to help you through any situation.
Today's Key Verse:
In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. (NKJV) (Psalm 56:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God in scary situations
Bible Reading: Psalm 34:1-15; 2 Corinthians 12:8-10
Thea inhaled the mist from her nebulizer. She felt her chest muscles relax as air rushed in. Just a few minutes before, an asthma attack had robbed her of her breath. "How do you feel now?" Mom asked as Thea let out a breath.
"Better," Thea said. "I wish I didn't have asthma."
"I know," Mom said. "But thank God we have this medicine when you do have an attack."
"Mom, why doesn't God just heal my asthma like I've asked Him to?" asked Thea. "Doesn't He like me?"
"I don't know why God heals some people and not others. Even when Jesus lived on earth, some sick people weren't healed. But we know that Jesus loved them and that He loves you because He died so we could have our sins forgiven."
"Then why pray about it if God isn't going to heal me?" Thea asked. "I still have the medicine to make me feel better when I need it."
"Remember when we took you to the emergency room during your first asthma attack?" Mom asked.
"Yeah, that was scary," Thea said. "I could hardly breathe at all! Then Dr. Singh came. He knew what medicines I needed."
"Maybe since you have your medicine, we don't need Dr. Singh anymore," Mom suggested.
"But Mom, he's in charge of my treatment plan!" Thea protested.
"You're right, Thea. We still need Dr. Singh--and we also need God. When we pray, we're asking God to take charge of our lives. God loves you and is working for your good. In fact, God gave the knowledge to treat asthma to doctors like Dr. Singh. Your medicines came from the earth He created. Your doctor isn't here for every attack, but we trust and follow his treatment plan. We don't know all the ways God is working in our lives, but we know He loves us and is always with us, even when doctors can't be. We can trust that God knows just what we need and is bringing about good, even when He doesn't answer our prayers the way we ask."
Thea sighed. "Then I guess the best treatment plan for my asthma is to keep praying and let God be in charge."
– Heidi Schmidt
How About You?
Have you given up praying for a problem that has lasted a long time? Are you unsure what God is doing about it? Remember that prayer is asking God to be in charge. Prayer invites Him to be with you and bring His power into your life. God always hears you. He loves you and gave you the gift of His Son, Jesus, who died to give you eternal life. You can trust Him to work for your good.
Today's Key Verse:
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. (NKJV) (Psalm 34:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Ask God to take charge of your life
Bible Reading: Philippians 2:1-4
"Oh man! Julie's here again?" whined Luke.
"I told Aunt Megan I would watch her for a few hours," said Mom. "What's wrong? I thought you loved your baby cousin."
"She's fine, I guess. It's just that whenever she's here, Kevin totally ignores me. He doesn't want to play or go outside. He just wants to hold Julie. What's so great about her, anyway?" muttered Luke. "She can't even do anything,"
"Let me show you something we liked to do with you when you were a baby," said Mom as she led him to Julie and his older brother, Kevin. "It takes a while for a baby's sight to develop. Julie can only see things that are eight inches away from her face."
"Really? How far is that?" asked Luke.
"That's just the right distance to see whoever's holding her," Mom replied. "Watch this." She slowly stuck her tongue in and out of her mouth at Julie.
Julie started doing it back!
"The only time it's not rude to stick out your tongue is if you're playing with a baby," Luke said with a laugh. "Let me try!" Much to Luke's delight, Julie mimicked him too.
"Let's try peekaboo," suggested Kevin.
Luke covered his face with his hands and then suddenly pulled them away and said, "Peekaboo!" Julie started kicking excitedly and huffed with joy. Then Kevin and Luke both tried the tongue trick again.
When Aunt Megan arrived, Luke asked if Julie could stay longer.
"I guess Julie grew on you, Luke," said Mom.
"Once I realized she could see me, it was fun to connect with her," said Luke.
"And that connection is important," said Mom. "Julie was looking up at you today, and she'll continue to look up to you as she grows. Just like you enjoy having your brother's attention, younger kids will thrive when you give them your attention, and you'll be showing them God's love too. He wants us to help younger children grow by loving and caring for them the way He loves and cares for us as His children."
"I guess that means I'll have to stop sticking my tongue out at Julie," said Luke with a smile.
– Kelly Bakshi
How About You?
Do you show younger children that you care about them? Do you know that you play an important role as a big kid? Babies and younger kids are always watching you. Don't ignore them--they are gifts from God! Show them you care by talking and playing with them and making them feel loved. As you care for them and help them learn and grow, you'll be pointing them to the love God has for us.
Today's Key Verse:
Don't be interested only in your own life, but care about the lives of others too. (ERV) (Philippians 2:4)
Today's Key Thought:
Care for young children
Bible Reading: Psalms 27:5-10, 14; 91:14-16
Because there was so much arguing going on inside the house, no one heard Jude slip out the back door. He ran across the yard and shimmied up his favorite tree. Somehow, sitting in the big old tree made Jude feel better--safe from things like noise and heartache. The tree was his hiding place and escape.
Jude stayed in the tree for a long time. He listened to birds chirp and sing. He watched small, quick squirrels run around the yard. The day looked better from high up in his favorite hiding place. There were no problems here. Still, his heart was very heavy.
"Jude!" called Mom from the back door. "Where are you?" Jude saw that his grandma was there too, so he climbed down and walked slowly toward the house. "Grandma wants to know if you'd like to go home with her for a while," said Mom. "Do you want to?" Eagerly, Jude nodded.
"That tree you were in must be very special to you," Grandma said as they got into the car. "Your mom says you spend a lot of time there."
"I like it up there," said Jude. "It's away from everything." He sighed. "But it's almost winter. Then I won't be able to hide in my tree anymore."
"Sounds like you'll need a new hiding place," said Grandma. "And you know what? There's an even better place where you can take shelter from the things that trouble you."
Jude was surprised. "There is? Where?"
"Any place you want it to be," Grandma replied. "It's the Lord's presence. Because you trust in Jesus, His Spirit lives in you, and He's always with you. He wants to help you and remind you how much He loves you. You can talk to Him anywhere, anytime."
Jude kicked his feet together, looking down at the mat in the car rather than his Grandma's gentle gaze. "What if I don't want to talk about it, even with God?
Grandma was silent for a moment. "Then remember that Jesus knows exactly what you're going through and promises to give you strength," she finally said. "If you don't want to talk, remember that He loves you so much He died for you, and know that you're safe in His care. He will listen whenever you're ready and will carry you through."
– Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Where do you go when you feel hurt, sad, or afraid? When you feel like you need to get away and hide, remember that God is with you. He wants to be your shelter and your hiding place. He provides comfort and peace through His Word, His Spirit, and the community around you. Wherever you are, He is with you, and He cares for you deeply and promises to help you.
Today's Key Verse:
The one who lives under the protection of the Most High dwells in the shadow of the Almighty. (CSB) (Psalm 91:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Rest in God's care
Bible Reading: John 10:27-30
When Shaun asked to see the gift his little sister had just opened, Kelsey turned away. "No," she said. "Mine."
"I just want to look at it!" Shaun said.
"Sorry, kiddo, but it is her gift," said Mom. "I'm sure she'll let you look at it later. Right now, she's in love with that little dog."
"It's a dog?" Shaun just wanted to see the small toy his grandparents had given his toddler sister for her birthday. When he got gifts, he held them up for all to see. But his sister had opened her gift and immediately gripped it tightly in her hand.
Later that afternoon, Shaun found Kelsey sitting on the couch, watching a cartoon. He sat down beside her and touched her hand. It was still clenched in a fist, the toy she had gotten barely sticking out of it. "Can I see this now?"
"Mine." Kelsey pulled her hand away from him.
"But you're watching a show!" Shaun sighed. "I just want to look at it for a minute."
"She's really attached to that thing." Mom stepped into the room. "She fell in love with it right away and doesn't want to let it go."
"I've never seen her care about a toy so much," Shaun said.
Mom sat down next to him. "I'm going to have to pry it away when it's time for her bath," she said. "That might be a struggle." She nudged Shaun's shoulder. "This makes me think of what we read during our devotional time this morning."
Shaun didn't remember what they had read. "What do you mean?"
"Remember what Jesus said about those who trust in Him?" Mom asked. "He said that no one will be able to take us from His hand."
Shaun looked to his sister and then his mom. "You think He'd hold on that tight to us if someone tried?"
Mom nodded. "I do. And He is much stronger than your baby sister. If He's clenching us in His hand like that, no one is ever going to get a hand on us."
"You think He cares about us as much as Kelsey cares about that dog?" Shaun asked.
Mom smiled. "Even more. Jesus gave His own life so we could be His, and He will never let us go."
– Emily Acker
How About You?
Have you ever cared about something so much that you wanted to hold on to it all the time and never let anyone else touch it? That's the way Jesus holds on to those who trust in Him. He sacrificed His life to free us from the power of sin and death, and He won't ever let go of us. No matter what difficulties you face in life, He will be with you and hold you tightly.
Today's Key Verse:
I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. (NKJV) (John 10:28)
Today's Key Thought:
God holds you tightly
Bible Reading: Hebrews 11:8-12
Jack helped Dad load the last of the boxes into the truck. Then he jumped down to the street and looked up at his house. It wasn't the largest or fanciest house on the block, but it was the only place he'd ever called home. Now his parents had accepted teaching positions at a school in Guatemala. They were moving away to an entirely new country.
The moving truck door rumbled shut behind him. "That's the last of it," Dad said, wiping his dusty hands on his jeans. He turned to Jack. "Ready to get to the storage unit?"
"Yeah, okay," Jack said.
He shuffled toward the front of the truck and climbed in. Dad started the engine, and they drove slowly down the street. They passed Jack's favorite park, where kids he knew climbed on the jungle gym and played tag in the field. "Does our new neighborhood have a park too, Dad?" he asked.
"I don't think so," Dad said. "But there's a playground at the school."
Jack swallowed a groan. A new school with kids who would probably all speak Spanish.
The red-and-white-striped umbrellas outside Mimi's Ice Cream Shoppe came into view. "Are there ice cream shops in Guatemala?" Jack asked, unable to keep the longing out of his voice.
Dad glanced over at him. "Things will be different in Guatemala, Jack, but that doesn't mean they'll be bad."
"But how do you know?" Jack asked.
"Well…" Dad stopped the truck at a red light. "It isn't always easy to see the next turn in life. But that's what faith is all about--having confidence that God will see us through each new thing. He has always taken care of us--He sent Jesus to save us from sin and has provided for us and helped us through hard times. We can trust Him to be with us and help us now." The light turned green, and Dad guided the truck onto the next road.
Jack thought about how he trusted Dad to drive the truck. He couldn't see the storage unit from where he sat, but he knew Dad would get them there. If he could trust Dad, he could surely trust Jesus, who died and rose again, to keep His promises.
"Dad? Can we stop at Mimi's one last time on the way home?"
Dad smiled. "Sure. One last time."
– Christa Hogan
How About You?
Is there something new and kind of scary in your future? Maybe you're moving to a new school or neighborhood, or a friend or family member is moving away. Even if you don't know how all the details will work out, God does. He loves you so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for you, and He promises to be with you and help you. Tell Him how you feel and ask for His guidance, then trust Him to take care of you.
Today's Key Verse:
Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. (NIV) (Hebrews 11:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Have faith that God will take care of you
Bible Reading: Revelation 21:22-27
Willow swallowed hard. Ever since Dad had helped her set up her newspaper route accounts on the computer, she worked diligently to keep them up to date. But now she hesitated as her finger hovered over the delete key. The account on the computer screen was that of one of her customers--Mrs. Trembley. The name glowed with a special brightness--or so it seemed to Willow. As she stared at it, she tried hard not to cry. "Mrs. Elizabeth C. Trembley, 288 Fox Street, Faris, Iowa," Willow murmured. She swallowed again and then punched the key. Mrs. Trembley's name and address disappeared, and the screen returned to the program's home page. The account was gone forever--just like Mrs. Trembley.
A tear slid down Willow's cheek as Dad came into the room. "Willow, what's wrong?" he asked.
Willow gulped. "I erased Mrs. Trembley." She gestured toward the computer as she brushed a tear away with the back of her hand. "I feel so sad about it, Dad. She was the nicest person on my paper route."
Dad nodded and put a hand on Willow's shoulder. Mrs. Trembley had been a real friend to Willow, but the kind elderly lady had died of a heart attack a couple weeks earlier.
"When I pushed the delete button, I felt like I was erasing Mrs. Trembley's life," Willow said faintly.
"You told me Mrs. Trembley was a Christian, didn't you?" asked Dad.
Willow nodded. "She said she trusted in Jesus when she was a little girl."
"Then Mrs. Trembley is safe with the Lord," Dad said. "Her name is written in the Book of Life--God's record of all those who have been saved by Jesus and will live with Him forever--and it will never be deleted." Dad gave Willow a hug. "You deleted Mrs. Trembley's name from the computer, but no one will ever erase her name from God's records. She's with Jesus now, and one day He will raise her from the dead."
"I know." Willow smiled as she thought about that. She sighed, but she felt a bit better. "I'm glad. And I know I'll see Mrs. Trembley again someday, because my name is written in God's book too."
–Carol J. Brookman
How About You?
Is your name written in God's record book--the Book of Life? If it is, it will never be erased. He will never forget you or abandon you--Jesus has given you eternal life with Him and will always be with you, no matter what. If you haven't yet trusted in Jesus, do it today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) Then your name will be written in the Book of Life for all eternity.
Today's Key Verse:
Nothing impure will ever enter [heaven]… but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. (NIV) (Revelation 21:27)
Today's Key Thought:
Those who trust Jesus have eternal life
Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 16:6-13; John 3:16-17
TAP! TAP! TAP! Two hammers thudded on the walnut shells. Ben and his dad were stripping the thick outer shells from nuts they had gathered in the woods. "Ugh!" exclaimed Ben, looking at the stains on his gloves. "It was fun picking these up, but they sure are messy!"
"Sure are," said Dad. "But just think how good Grandma's black walnut cake will taste when she uses these. It will be worth all the effort."
As they continued working, Ben talked about school. "Did I tell you about the new kid in my class, Dad? His name is Collin, and he's weird!"
"Why do you say that?" asked Dad.
"He always talks too loud, and he thinks he's such a tough guy," replied Ben. "I just don't like him."
Dad worked in silence for a while. Then he picked up another walnut and held it out. "Maybe Collin is like this nut."
"Yeah--a tough nut to crack!" said Ben.
"You don't know him very well yet, do you?" said Dad. He tapped the nut with his hammer. "Walnuts grow with this soft, spongy covering, and after we take that off, there's still a hard shell, so we can't see the good nutmeat on the inside. Collin may be like that. He may be quite different from who you think he is."
Ben frowned. "You mean he may just be putting on a tough act?"
"It's important to try and see others as God sees them," Dad said. "God loves each and every one of us, and He knows exactly what our hearts look like. When people are afraid or insecure, they sometimes act tough to hide their feelings." Dad finished removing the outer shell from the nut. "Have you ever done that?"
"I don't know," said Ben. "Maybe."
Dad nodded. "Well, with God's help, maybe you could get past Collin's outer shell. When you see him as someone God loves--someone Jesus died on the cross to save--it will help you be more patient and understanding as you get to know him. Then see what God does in both of you."
Ben considered how he could get to know Collin better. "He was watching us play soccer at recess," Ben said. "Maybe he'd want to join us."
–Judith K. Boogaart
How About You?
Do you have trouble liking someone because of how they act? It's possible they act that way to hide their fear or insecurity from others. Trust God to help you see that person the way He does. Remember that He loves them just like He loves you. He knows what's in each person's heart, and He can work through your love and kindness to change hearts and lives.
Today's Key Verse:
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Look at others with love
Bible Reading: Titus 2:11-15
"Look at those jellyfish!" exclaimed Jude. "They look like tiny parachutes!" He leaned forward, watching the silky-looking jellyfish that were floating in one of the tanks at the aquarium.
Ashlynn nudged her way closer. "Wow!" she cried. "Look at the colors--pink, white, blue, yellow, green, purple, and even some striped ones!"
Dad was looking at the sign next to the popular exhibit. "When out of the water," he read out loud, "jellyfish look like a glob of jelly dripping from a spoon. Jellyfish are invertebrates. They have no backbone and no central brain."
Jude came over to look at the sign. "It says they float by opening and closing their bodies like an umbrella. They hardly move unless a current comes along."
That evening, the kids talked about the things they liked best of all at the aquarium. "Those jellyfish were so pretty," said Ashlynn. "It's cool how they just float along, going with the flow of the current."
"It is cool how God created jellyfish to move that way, isn't it?" said Dad. "But it's important to remember that He didn't create us to be like that."
"What do you mean?" asked Ashlynn.
"Sometimes we just want to go along with what's going on around us," replied Dad. "We go with the flow and don't think for ourselves."
"Oh." Ashlynn bit her lip. "Kind of like what I did when Brielle and Rachel were over yesterday."
Dad raised his eyebrows. "Really? What did you do?"
"Brielle and Rachel were making fun of Naomi, and I just went along with it and laughed at whatever they said." Ashlynn sighed. "Brielle and Rachel are really popular at school, and lately they've been wanting to hang out with me, so I didn't want to…" Her voice trailed off.
Dad gave a sympathetic nod. "We all do things like that sometimes, which is why we need to remember that God didn't make us like jellyfish with no backbone. Because we trust in Jesus, God has made us His children and given us the power to love others and do what's right. When those around us do things that are hurtful and wrong, we don't have to go along with them. Instead, we can trust God to help us love others the way He does and stand up for them."
–Lucinda J. Rollings
How About You?
Do you hold true to what is right? Do you defend those who are treated unkindly--even when it means standing up to your friends? Or do you just go with the flow? God didn't make you to be like a jellyfish--He gave you both a backbone and a brain! And if you know Jesus, you also have the power to obey Him and show His love to others. Trust Him to fill you with His boldness to do what is right, even when it's hard.
Today's Key Verse:
[God's grace] teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives. (NIV) (Titus 2:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Stand for what is right
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:34-40; Mark 9:41
Jesse sat in church listening to a missionary speaker talk about a faraway country as he showed the class photos on a large screen. In one of the pictures, the missionary and several other people wore long white robes and had scarves wrapped around their heads. "This is the way we often dress where I live," he said. "The purpose of these loose scarves is to keep the sun off our heads. It really works quite well."
Jesse sat up straight to see better as the missionary continued speaking. "It's often difficult to reach people in this country with the good news that Jesus died and rose again to save us. I'm happy to be there because I know God sent me to tell them about Jesus and how much He loves them."
Jesse's eyes opened wide. He had never been away from home for more than a few days at a time. He hoped God wouldn't send him to a faraway country. He didn't want to leave his family.
The next day, Jesse sat on the front steps. He could hear sounds from the kitchen where his mom was cooking, and he could hear the hum of his dad's lawnmower in the backyard. Jesse liked those sounds. He looked down the street and saw Mrs. Quarry, their neighbor, walking home with a heavy bag of groceries. She stopped in front of Jesse's house, set down her grocery bag, and leaned against the fence. The grocery bag tipped, and several cans of food clattered across the sidewalk.
Jesse ran to help her. "I'll get your groceries, Mrs. Quarry."
The old woman took a deep breath. "Oh, thank you, Jesse. But first, please help me up my front steps. I'm so tired." She put one hand on the fence and the other on Jesse's shoulder. He walked beside her and hoped she wouldn't fall. When they reached the porch, Mrs. Quarry sat down on one of the chairs. She looked up at Jesse and smiled. "God sent you to me, Jesse. He knew I needed help, and He sent you."
Jesse felt lighter as he ran back to pick up the groceries. He realized there were many ways he could share the love of Jesus with others, and he didn't even have to leave home.
–Ruth M. Hamel
How About You?
Are you serving God at home? At school? In your neighborhood? You don't need to wait until you're older--He will help you share the love of Jesus with others right now, no matter where you are. Ask Him to show you what you can do for Him today. Then serve Him by washing dishes, mowing lawns, helping a friend or neighbor, or doing whatever else He leads you to do.
Today's Key Verse:
Then I heard the Lord's voice, saying, "Who can I send? Who will go for us?" So I said, "Here I am. Send me!" (ERV) (Isaiah 6:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Serve God wherever you are
Bible Reading: Matthew 7:21-29
"There's my dad. Want a ride home, Thomas?" Wesley asked after school one day. Thomas nodded, and the boys climbed into the car in time to hear a news report about the clean-up efforts in an area where an earthquake had recently occurred. "What causes an earthquake?" Wesley asked his dad.
"Well, the earth's crust has splits in some places called faults. Sometimes the sides of a fault shift against each other and cause the earth to tremble. If they move against each other hard enough, it may shake the earth so much that buildings crumple."
Thomas frowned. "Can that happen here?" He imagined his own house tumbling down.
"Earthquakes occur all over the world, but according to the most recent geological maps, we're not living near any major faults in the earth's crust," said Wesley's dad. "Since we're on a more solid foundation, we're not likely to experience an earthquake. Even if we did, it probably wouldn't be a severe one."
"Good!" said Thomas. "I'm glad my house is on solid ground."
Wesley's dad nodded. "So am I." He smiled at Thomas. "But do you know that we need to build our lives on a solid foundation too? That's even more important than having our homes built on a firm spot in the earth's crust."
Thomas looked puzzled. "Build our lives on a solid foundation? How do we do that?"
Wesley chimed in. "We talked about that in my class at church last week! The lesson was on the story in the Bible about a wise man who built his house on rock and a foolish man who built his house on sand. When the storms came, the wise man's house stood strong, but the foolish man's house blew away."
"In the story, the men's houses represent their lives," Dad explained. "We can either build our lives on a solid foundation or on one that will crumble in life's storms."
Wesley nodded. "People who trust in Jesus are like the wise man. They're building their lives on the Rock, which is another name for Jesus."
"That's right," said Dad. "Jesus is our firm, strong foundation. He died and rose again to save us from sin and give us eternal life, and He can hold us steady even when things in life get all shook up."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Is Jesus the foundation of your life? He's the only foundation that will withstand all the trials of life and help you stand firm when everything seems to be crumbling around you. Build your life on the Rock by trusting in Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) As you depend on Him and rest in His truth and promises, you'll be ready when life's storms come your way.
Today's Key Verse:
No one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have--Jesus Christ. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 3:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Build your life on Jesus
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:3-12; Colossians 3:1-14
"Look at that guy, Mom," Raelyn said as she and her mother waited at a red traffic light. "He's practically dancing down the street instead of walking! He looks funny with his head bobbing back and forth like that."
"I think he's listening to music," Mom said. "See his earbuds?"
"Yeah," said Raelyn. "He's walking to the beat of the music he's hearing, isn't he?"
"That's how it looks to me." Mom smiled as she watched the man bob in place while he waited for the crosswalk light to turn. "You know, that man reminds me of us as Christians."
Raelyn gave her mother a little grin. "Are you saying we look like that when we sing worship songs in church?"
Mom chuckled. "I was actually thinking about our walk with Jesus in this world," she explained. "Jesus tells us in the Bible that following Him as our Lord and Savior will cause us to be out of sync with the rest of the world. As we listen to Him and remember that He's changed us and given us eternal life, we walk to a different beat. When we follow His ways instead of going along with what everyone else is doing, we might look pretty strange to others."
"That's true," said Raelyn. "Sometimes kids at school laugh at me when I refuse to cheat on homework or try to be kind to other kids they don't like."
"People at work often think I'm strange too," said Mom. "Jesus says His Kingdom isn't of this world, which means His ways are very different from what we might see around us. The world tells us to follow our own desires and do whatever makes us feel good, but God says to follow and obey Him. And who loves you the most--God or the world?"
"God!" Raelyn exclaimed.
"Yes," said Mom. The light turned green, and she drove forward. "God loves us so much that Jesus died to save us, so we can trust that His ways are best."
"Yeah." Raelyn turned to take one last look at the man dancing on the sidewalk before he was out of sight. "I want to walk to Jesus's beat and not worry about what other people think of me."
–Lyndel F. Walker
How About You?
Are you walking to a different beat than the rest of the world? Do others laugh at you or think you're strange because you follow Jesus? The way He calls us to live is often very different from how society or other people say we should live. Instead of living to please ourselves, Jesus tells us to live a life of love and obedience that shows we belong to God. Trust Him to help you follow His beat as you walk through life with Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (NKJV) (Colossians 3:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Walk to Jesus's beat
Bible Reading: Hebrews 4:12-13
Corbin climbed into the dentist's chair and laid his head back to have his teeth checked by Dr. Karam. "I don't see any cavities today," Dr. Karam announced after a few minutes, "but we'll get a better look with an X-ray."
As Corbin waited for the X-ray photos, he looked around the dentist's office. On the wall was a poster with pictures and instructions on how to brush teeth, and on a shelf, he saw a model of a tooth. "You must like teeth," he said to Dr. Karam.
The dentist laughed. "Teeth are important, and we need to keep them healthy. Tell me, Corbin--how often do you brush your teeth?"
"Every day," said Corbin. "Morning and night! Mom makes me."
Just then Dr. Karam's assistant pulled up the X-rays of Corbin's teeth on the computer screen. "Uh-oh," said Dr. Karam as he studied the pictures. "You have some decay in one of your molars."
Corbin groaned. "I almost wish X-ray machines didn't exist. Then you wouldn't know about the decay and drill my tooth."
"Hey, now!" protested the dentist. "You should be glad we found the decay and can clean it out before it gets worse. Relax!"
"Relax?" asked Corbin as he watched Dr. Karam prepare a drill.
Dr. Karam smiled. "Yes, relax. There's only a small amount of decay, and it won't take long to fix it." After he finished drilling, the dentist spoke thoughtfully. "You know, Corbin, an X-ray machine is something like the Bible."
Corbin grinned. "Going to the same church as my dentist means I get a lesson here as well as on Sunday, huh?"
Dr. Karam chuckled. "Yes, and it's a good lesson. You see, the X-ray showed decay that I couldn't see with my eyes. And sometimes God's Word shows us sin--decay in our lives--that no one else can see. When that happens, we need to get it drilled out before it causes more damage."
"That means confessing it to Jesus and trusting Him to forgive us, right?" asked Corbin.
"Right!" said Dr. Karam. "When the Bible shows us sin in our lives that needs drilling out, Jesus will remove it for us and make us clean."
–Lucinda J. Rollings
How About You?
Do you use God's X-ray machine--the Bible--to look at your heart and life? Sin may be hidden from others, but it's never hidden from God. Sometimes you may not realize you're doing something wrong until it's pointed out to you. Whenever God's Word makes you aware of sin in your life, confess it to Jesus. Trust Him to forgive you and help you turn from it.
Today's Key Verse:
The word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword…it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. (NIV) (Hebrews 4:12)
Today's Key Thought:
The Bible reveals sin in your life
Bible Reading: Matthew 24:30-31, 36-44
Ellis and his dad woke up before sunrise to walk out to the woods the first day of bow hunting season. It was a brisk morning, and the frosty grass crunched beneath Ellis's feet as he walked.
"Your stand is right up here," Dad whispered. Before Ellis could climb the ladder up to his tree stand, Dad grabbed his elbow. "Ellis, there are two things you need to remember." Dad's face was serious. "Do not fall asleep, and do not leave your stand."
Ellis nodded. "You're going to do great," Dad whispered before he disappeared into the darkness to sit in a tree stand somewhere else.
Thirty minutes later, Ellis was getting bored and sleepy. He kept watching for deer, but his hunting jacket was so warm, and the sounds of the woods were so calming. He closed his eyes.
Ellis's eyes shot open when he heard a loud scraping sound coming from below. Rattled, he turned quickly and saw a giant buck scraping his antlers against a tree right next to him.
He frantically reached for his bow, but the deer had already heard him. With a dash, the buck was gone.
When Dad came back to get him, Ellis tried not to let him see that he had been crying. "Ellis, what's wrong?" asked Dad.
"Dad, I'm so sorry! I fell asleep, and a giant buck got away. Are you mad?"
"Of course I'm not mad," Dad said. "I'm only disappointed for you because I know how badly you wanted to get a deer today! And I wanted you to be safe."
Ellis sniffled. "I wish I had listened to your instructions. When that buck came, I wasn't ready for him."
Dad smiled. "That reminds me of some other instructions we should all listen to about being ready. Pastor Brown talked about them at church last week, remember?"
"You mean what he said about being ready for Jesus to come back?" asked Ellis.
Dad nodded. "Jesus promised to come back someday to get rid of all sin and make everything new. And what a day that will be! But we need to be ready. First, we must trust Him as our Savior. Then, as we wait for Him, we need to be alert to how we can help more people know how much He loves them."
–Emily Tenter
How About You?
Are you ready for Jesus to come back? The Bible tells us that no one knows the day or time of Jesus's return, so we need to be ready. That means trusting Him to forgive our sins and make us right with God, knowing we could never hit the mark of God's perfect standard ourselves. Then we can serve Him and share His love with others as we wait for Him to return.
Today's Key Verse:
Therefore be alert, since you don't know what day your Lord is coming. (CSB) (Matthew 24:42)
Today's Key Thought:
Be ready for Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 3:10-18; 5:8
"I'm so excited for deer season this year!" Ellis could hardly contain himself as he and his dad walked from the house out to their big backyard.
His dad chuckled. "I remember the day I was old enough to go hunting. I was probably jumping up and down like you!"
Ellis and Dad had just gotten back from the bow shop, and Ellis wanted to test out his new arrows before the big day. He quickly got out his bow, nocked his arrow, drew back, and let the arrow fly toward the target. WHOOSH! He let out a disappointed grunt when he saw that his arrow didn't even come close to the bulls-eye.
"Whoa, easy, Ellis. Remember what I taught you," said Dad. "Put your feet in the right stance. Good, good. Now draw back slowly, bend your arm--that's it. Now, find your anchor. Bring your index finger to the corner of your mouth. Good! Now, take your time. Breathe…"
WHOOSH!
"That was much better, Ellis!"
Ellis smiled. "Thanks, Dad. I still didn't hit the bulls-eye though."
"Well, getting a bulls-eye is never easy, even with practice." Dad gave Ellis a thoughtful look. "You know, this reminds me of something. What if I told you that in order to get into heaven, you had to hit that bulls-eye a hundred times in a row and never miss?"
Ellis scrunched his eyebrows. "Dad, that would be impossible!"
"You're right," said Dad. "It would be impossible! You would have to have a perfect record, and there's nobody in the world who's lived a perfect life except Jesus. The word sin means to miss the mark, and the mark is perfection. Because we're sinners, God knew we would never be able to hit the mark ourselves--that's why He sent His perfect Son to pay the price of our sins so we wouldn't have to!"
Ellis thought for a moment. "So God forgives us and accepts us because Jesus hit the mark, not because of what we have done."
"Right," said Dad. "By living a perfect life and dying for our sins, Jesus hit the bulls-eye for us so we could have eternal life with Him." He nodded to the bow in Ellis's hand. "Now, let's see what else you got!"
–Emily Tenter
How About You?
Are you missing the mark of perfection in your life? You're not alone. No one is perfect--we've all failed to meet the requirements to enter heaven. But when Jesus died for our sins, He hit the mark for us! The only way to be accepted by God and have eternal life is by trusting in Jesus. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. (NKJV) (Romans 3:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Only Jesus is perfect
Bible Reading: Psalms 34:1-3; 146:5-10; Lamentations 3:22-23
Maeve curled up on the sofa and looked at her parakeet. Her father had given her the little bird only a short time before he died. "This little guy will keep you company," Dad told her, and that was why Maeve had named him Little Guy.
Dad had been gone six months now. Although Maeve was getting used to the emptiness his death had brought to the house and her life, she still missed many things--Dad in his place at the table, the sound of his laugh, the way he used to tap a goodnight signal on her bedroom door. There was a sadness in Mom's eyes too, and Maeve knew she missed Dad a lot.
Maeve noticed that her parakeet was perched dejectedly in his little brass cage. She had cleaned the cage and gave him fresh water and seeds, but he hadn't chirped lately. "Mom, what's wrong with Little Guy?"
Mom studied the little bird huddled on his perch. "He's molting. Did you notice all the feathers he's lost? Sometimes birds get droopy and stop singing during the molting period. He just needs a little time." Mom put an arm around Maeve. "You and I are a little like that right now. We've pretty much lost our desire to sing too, but Jesus knows how we feel, and He will be with us through this so we can keep singing His praises."
"We can still sing even though we're sad?" asked Maeve. "I thought singing and praising God was something you did when you're happy or grateful for something."
"It is," Mom said. "But, unlike your parakeet, we can still sing and praise God even when we're sad because Jesus died to save us and is always with us. He is still King over everything, and He knows we miss Dad very much and promises to care for us. Remember the wonderful promises we read from the Bible earlier this week?"
Maeve nodded. "They mentioned that God cares for the fatherless--that's me--and widows--that's you." She gently poked a finger into the cage, touching the bird's soft green feathers. "I guess that's something I can sing about, even though I'm sad," she said softly.
Little Guy cocked his head and ruffled his feathers. Then he chirped, almost as if he understood.
–Phyllis I. Klomparens
How About You?
Is there something going on in your life that's making you feel sad and lonely? Maybe you lost a parent or friend, or you're dealing with some other great sorrow. God knows all about it, and He loves you and cares about what's happening. Pray about your problems and depend on Him to help you through them. Even when things are hard, you can praise Him and thank Him for His great love for you.
Today's Key Verse:
A father to the fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. (NIV) (Psalm 68:5)
Today's Key Thought:
God understands your situation
Bible Reading: Psalms 63:1-5; 143:5-6; John 4:7-14
Dad clapped the Bible shut and gave Geena a bear hug. They both jumped up and pumped their fists in the air.
"We did it!" Geena shouted.
Mom came in the back door. "I take it you two just finished reading the entire Bible. Look what I have for you." She handed them two tickets. "You can celebrate at tomorrow's ball game."
They had good seats at the game, ate lots of chips and hot dogs--and their team won. On the way home Geena was thirsty, but her water bottle was empty.
When they got home, Geena forgot about getting a drink as they sat at the table telling Mom all about the game. Dad pulled out the Bible and said, "Geena, you can pick which book we read next."
"We just finished the Bible yesterday. Why do we need to keep reading it?" She held up her empty water bottle. "I need some water."
Dad put up his hand. "Wait, didn't you just drink that whole bottle yesterday?" Geena nodded. Dad asked, "Why do you want more?"
"Probably because we ate three bags of chips at the game." Geena giggled.
Dad laughed and took her water bottle to the sink. "What if you never had anything to drink again?"
"I'd feel awful and always be thirsty."
"That's how it would be for your soul without Jesus," said Dad. "You'd be like someone lost in a desert with no water. Jesus calls Himself living water because we need Him to save us and fill our lives with His presence and peace. One of the ways He helps us feel His presence and peace is through His Word. Reading the Bible is like a drink from Jesus that refreshes your mind and spirit. It's not something to just read once--we need to keep reading the Bible and learning about it with others at church."
Geena nodded. "It reminds me how much God loves me--like when we read about how Jesus forgives us because He took the punishment for our sins when He died on the cross. And I love reading the part about Jesus rising from the dead."
Dad handed her the full water bottle. Geena took a drink and opened the Bible to choose what they would read next.
–Laura Roesler
How About You?
Do you ever feel you don't really need to read the Bible? God's Word tells us that His mercies are new every morning. Each day Jesus has loving things to tell you and guidance to give. Through the truth of His Word, He can refresh your soul like cold water on a hot day by reminding you of His love and faithfulness. Read it and trust Him to help you hear whatever He wants to say to you.
Today's Key Verse:
My soul longs for You like a thirsty land. (NKJV) (Psalm 143:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Stay thirsty for God's Word
Bible Reading: 2 Samuel 22:3-4; Psalm 3:3-5; Ephesians 6:10-15
"I don't want to go in there," Natalie said outside the door to one of the rooms in the aquarium. "It's full of sharks."
"Oh, come on, Nat," said Hunter. "The sharks are behind glass."
"It's perfectly safe," Dad assured her. "Hunter is right. Those walls shield you from the sharks. There's no way they can get out."
Despite Dad's words, Natalie clutched Mom's hand as they walked in. On either side of the aisle, glass walls rose from floor to ceiling, and beyond the glass was a magnificent reproduction of life beneath the sea. Natalie felt like she had sunk to the floor of the ocean. Hundreds of glittering fish swam about, taking no notice of her.
"Look!" she exclaimed. "There's a giant sea turtle!" Natalie stepped forward and watched with her face close to the glass as the turtle swam away. Then a dark shape emerged from the dim shadow at the side of the tank. It grew larger and larger as it swam toward her. "A shark!" screamed Natalie. She darted back as the creature glided by right in front of her eyes. She knew there was really nothing to be afraid of, but she was glad when they left the area.
That evening there was a lot of excited chatter at dinner. "I still don't like those sharks," said Natalie. "They'd probably like to sink their teeth into us!"
Hunter shook his head. "Shark attacks are rare because humans don't taste good to sharks. Attacks only happen when sharks mix us up with their normal food."
"Well, I still felt better having that thick glass for protection," said Natalie.
"You know, God is like that thick glass," said Dad. "The Bible says He is our shield. When we face attacks from Satan or from others who want to harm us, God is our protection."
Mom nodded. "Because Jesus saved us, we are always safe in His hands, even when bad things happen. He is always with us and helps us stand firm against Satan's lies. Didn't you feel safer with the sharks at the aquarium knowing there was a thick shield of glass?"
"Yeah," said Natalie. "That means I can be more confident in other scary situations knowing that God is with me as my shield!"
–Ellen C. Orr
How About You?
Did you know that God is a shield for His children? Even though scary things happen in life, Jesus promises to be with us and give us peace, even in the worst situations. When Satan tells you lies or others try to hurt you, go to God for protection. He loves you and is watching over you, and He puts loving Christians in your life who can help you and remind you of His truth when you're under attack.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. (NLT) (Psalm 28:7)
Today's Key Thought:
God is our shield
Bible Reading: Romans 15:1-7; Galatians 6:2
"What happened to Ezra?" Laura asked as she worked with her brother in the garden. "Why doesn't he come over anymore?"
"I don't know," said Orson. He settled back on his heels. "Ezra changed a lot when his parents got divorced. He started hanging with another group of kids, so I don't see him that much anymore."
"But you still see him at church, right?" asked Laura.
"Not really," said Orson. "He hasn't come in a long time." He sighed and started pulling weeds again. "Whatever. I'm not going to go out of my way to be friends with him if he's not interested."
"Watch what you're doing!" Laura exclaimed. "That's one of Mom's lavender plants you're trying to pull up."
"But it's dead," said Orson. "And stuck too. I can't get it out."
Laura knelt beside him. "Look. It's not really dead. There's a little green on it down here." She pointed to a little sprout. "And it's stuck because lavender plants put their roots down deep."
"Well, if it isn't dead, then why does it look like this?" said Orson.
Laura shrugged. "It had a hard winter, I guess. We'll just have to take special care of it now." She grinned. "Mom would say it needs TLC--tender, loving care."
Orson sat and stared at the plant until Laura finally nudged him. "Hey, get back to work!"
Orson wiped his forehead. "I was just thinking--maybe Ezra needs TLC too. He's had a rough time lately, so maybe I should be taking special care of him."
"I think you're right," said Laura. "It sounds like he needs a friend to stick with him through everything he's going through." She yanked a weed out of the ground. "One of the ways God shows His love to us is through our friends, remember? Pastor Jennings talked about that. He said Jesus is the most faithful friend of all, and since we know Him and have His Spirit in us, we can be faithful friends too."
"Yeah," said Orson. "I'll tell Ezra I miss seeing him around. Maybe I'll see if he wants to come over after school tomorrow." He repacked dirt around the base of the lavender plant, taking care to be mindful of the little green sprout. "And I'll pray for him too."
–Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you have a friend who's going through a tough situation? Are you unsure how to respond or wondering if they still want to be friends? Don't give up on them--let them know you'll be there for them no matter what. Your faithful friendship can remind them how much Jesus loves them and that He understands their pain. Pray for your friend, and trust God to help you show them His tender, loving care.
Today's Key Verse:
Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone. (NLT) (1 Thessalonians 5:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Show TLC to others
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-4; 1 Peter 1:13-16
Alvaro angrily stomped into the room. Papá looked up from his computer.
"Tell Miguel to quit copying me!" said Alvaro, crossing his arms over his chest. "He's always following me around, and he tries to do everything I do." As Papá closed his laptop, Miguel rushed into the living room. He marched over to his brother and promptly crossed his arms too. "See what I mean?" said Alvaro as Miguel stared up at him.
"Miguel," said Papá, "give Alvaro a bit of space." Then Papá looked at Alvaro. "Miguel copies you because he wants to be like you."
Alvaro frowned. "I don't like copycats."
"You don't? Well, the Bible says we should all be copycats." Papá picked up his Bible from the coffee table and opened it. "Here," he said. "Read Ephesians 5:1 out loud for us."
Alvaro took the Bible and looked at the verse Papá indicated. "Therefore be imitators of God as dear children," he read.
"What do imitators do?" Papá asked. Alvaro shrugged. Miguel shrugged too. "They copy," said Papá. "We're supposed to copy God." Papá smiled at the boys. "Miguel loves you, Alvaro, and he shows it by wanting to do the same things you do. That's the same way we show our love for God. Jesus lived a perfect life of love and sacrifice when He came to earth to die for our sins. We can't copy Him perfectly, but through the power of the Holy Spirit, who is helping us grow to be more like Him, we can imitate Jesus by showing others His love in our actions and attitudes."
Alvaro scratched his head. Giggling, Miguel did the same. Then Alvaro gave his brother a quick, playful punch on the shoulder. Miguel punched back. He squealed as Alvaro tackled him, and together they fell to the floor, laughing.
Papá laughed too. "Okay, you two. Miguel, no more copying Alvaro right now. Leave him alone for a while. And let's all remember to be imitators of God by trusting Him to help us copy Jesus."
"Okay," Miguel said.
"Okay," Alvaro said with a mischievous grin.
"Okay!" Papá chimed in, and they all laughed."
–Carol A. deCesare
How About You?
Do you get frustrated when others copy you? Do younger kids try to act like you by repeating what you say or imitating what you do? Often they do this because they look up to you. As God's children, we need to copy Him. He showed us His love by sending His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. Through the Holy Spirit, He will help us show that same kind of love to others so we can imitate Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Therefore be imitators of God as dear children. (NKJV) (Ephesians 5:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Be an imitator of God
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-4; Revelation 21:1-4
Jill sat on the bench in her backyard and kicked at the dead leaves around her feet. This was one of the worst days of her life. She'd just found out that Aunt Karen had died from cancer.
Jill slumped against the back of the bench and thought about how Aunt Karen would often go shopping and out to lunch with Jill and her mom on Saturdays before she got sick. They called it their ladies' day out. A tear ran down Jill's cheek as she realized that now they would never have another adventure with the three of them again.
Just then Mom came out of the house and sat down on the bench. She took Jill in her arms and they both sat there and cried. After a while Jill sat up and wiped her eyes. "Mom, will my heart always hurt this bad? Will it ever get better?"
Mom wiped her own eyes and cleared her throat. "We both loved Aunt Karen and will miss her very much. The Bible says there's a time and a season for everything, and right now it's our time to mourn." She took a deep breath. "At least we can be glad knowing she's no longer suffering and that one day we'll see her again."
"I'm having a hard time feeling glad about anything right now," said Jill. "It feels like I'll be mourning forever." She began kicking at the dead leaves on the ground again.
Mom looked up to the trees above them. "Jill, look at all the trees losing their leaves! Do you think they'll ever get them back?"
Jill gave her mom a funny look. "Of course they will, Mom. The trees will grow new leaves in the spring. You know that."
"Yes," said Mom. "The trees lose their leaves because they go through seasons--and we go through seasons in our lives. Some are good and others difficult, but Jesus is always there with us through all of them. We can trust Him to carry us through this season of mourning, knowing it won't last forever. Seasons change, and one day, when we finally see Jesus face-to-face, all our troubles and sadness will be gone for good." Mom put her arm around Jill. "Trust that God will never leave you or forget you, no matter what season you're in."
–Melissa Yeagle
How About You?
Are you going through a hard time right now? Does it feel like it will never end? Everyone goes through different seasons of life, and sometimes they are filled with hardship or sadness. But no matter what season you're in, Jesus is with you, and He cares about you. Trust Him to help you through the hard seasons of life, looking forward to the day when He makes all things new and your troubles will be over.
Today's Key Verse:
[God] himself has said, "I will never leave you or abandon you." (CSB) (Hebrews 13:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God in hard times
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:13; James 1:12-15
Carter helped his older brother Nate pull and heave their boat to the water's edge. Then Nate looked over the items in the boat. "Fishing poles, net, tackle box. I think we're ready." The boys jumped in the boat and headed for the other side of the lake.
"What color lure should I use?" asked Carter as he looked at the rows of colorful fishing lures in the tackle box. "There's green, pink, blue, and yellow twisty tales. I'll try this bright pink one. I want to catch a big trout."
Carter cast out his line in hopes of a bite. He settled back in his seat, enjoying the rocking of the boat.
"I have a fish!" he yelled a while later. He started reeling his line. The fish fought and struggled, but Carter soon had his first fish in the boat.
"Look at that big trout!" said Nate. "Pink must be the color to use."
Carter grinned and threw his line back in. A few minutes later his pole jerked again. "It's another one," he said excitedly, scooting to the edge of his seat. He reeled his line as fast as he could, but this time he heard a sickening snap.
"My line broke!" he wailed. "It was a big one too. Maybe I can still get it."
Soon his line was back in the water with another pink twisty tale. Both boys sat quietly and waited.
"You know," said Nate, breaking the silence. "Fishing reminds me of our spiritual lives. We use bright colors hoping the fish will notice our lures and bite. The fish think it's a tasty worm, but it's really only a plastic lure with a hook. They don't know there's a hook until they bite, and then it's too late."
"Unless the line breaks," Carter said with a laugh.
Nate grinned. "That's how sin is. It looks attractive, but once we bite, we find out how much of a mess it makes. That's why we need to remember that Jesus freed us from sin and trust Him to help us resist its bright lure."
Carter nodded thoughtfully. "That's a good lesson." Then, with a twinkle in his eye, he said, "Now I just need to give you a lesson on how to catch fish!"
–Kristi Yutzy
How About You?
Has something ever looked good to you, even though you knew it would be wrong? Cheating to get a good grade, stealing money to buy something nice, or lying so you don't get in trouble are some of sin's bright lures that tempt us. Don't believe those lies. Sin is always harmful--that's why Jesus died to free us from its hold over us. Trust Him to help you resist sin's temptation.
Today's Key Verse:
God is faithful…when you are tempted, He will make a way for you to keep from falling into sin. (NLV) (1 Corinthians 10:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Be aware of sin's bright lures
Bible Reading: John 13:34-35; 1 John 4:20-21
Charlotte was sitting on the couch doing homework when her little brother, Georgie, came bounding into the room. "Incoming!" he shouted as he leapt onto the couch, right into her lap.
"Georgie! Get off me!" shouted Charlotte and she pushed him away. Georgie fell off the couch and started to cry.
Mom came into the room. "What did you do, Charlotte?" she asked.
"Nothing!" replied Charlotte. "He's the one who jumped on me, and look! He ripped the page of my textbook! I always get blamed for everything." She stomped to her room and slammed the door behind her.
A little while later, Mom paid her a visit. "What's going on, Charlotte? Why are you so angry at your brother?" she asked softly.
"He's so annoying!" Charlotte exclaimed. "And he never leaves me alone."
"You know that's because he loves you, don't you?" said Mom.
"Well, I don't love him," said Charlotte flatly.
"You may not always like what Georgie does, but you can still love him," said Mom. "Love isn't a feeling, Charlotte, it's a choice. As Christians, we choose to love others because God loved us first and sent Jesus to save us from sin. Because of Him, you can choose to act in a loving way toward your brother, even if you don't feel like it."
Later that day, Charlotte was reading in a chair on the driveway while Georgie rode his bike. "Look at me, Charlotte!" he shouted as he raced around. Charlotte ignored him. She was still mad.
Suddenly, Charlotte heard the squeal of tires as a car rounded the bend too fast. Georgie was headed right for the road! Charlotte jumped up, ran down the driveway, and pushed Georgie off his bike and into the grass. The speeding car went up onto the curb and hit their mailbox. Charlotte scooped her startled brother into her arms and buried her face in his hair. Her heart was beating wildly.
That evening, Georgie told their dad all about the day's excitement. "Charlotte saved me, Daddy!" he exclaimed as he hugged Charlotte's legs.
Mom gently embraced them both. "Thank you for choosing love, Charlotte," she whispered and gave them each a kiss.
–Laura Kuehn
How About You?
Do you ever have a hard time getting along with your brothers and sisters? Do you sometimes get angry with your parents or your friends? If you know Jesus, you can choose to act in a loving way toward others, no matter how you might feel. Because He loves us, we can love others. Choose to love, even when you don't feel like it.
Today's Key Verse:
Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. (NKJV) (1 John 4:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Choose to love others
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:26-32
Willa was so upset at her sister Margot. All week long she'd been using Willa's things without asking, and today she had taken one of Willa's best shirts and worn it to school. As she walked into the house, Willa felt like her temper was about to explode. She slammed her backpack down on a kitchen chair, and it tumbled to the floor. Willa let out an exasperated scream.
"Willa, please sit down and cool off," Mom said. She poured two glasses of lemonade and sat down next to her. "Did I ever tell you about the summer my friend Carolee and I rented a small cottage by the lake for a week?" Mom asked.
Willa sniffed. "No, but that sounds like it would be fun."
Mom nodded. "It was great--until we decided to bake cookies one day. I opened the oven of the old gas stove while Carolee lit a match. It didn't light right away, but then, all of a sudden…WHOOSH! A bright yellow flash lit up the whole oven."
"Were you hurt?" asked Willa, wide-eyed.
"We both had deep burns." Mom rolled up her sleeve and pointed at a pink scar on her forearm. "We learned later that the oven hadn't been used for a long time, and little by little, dirt had clogged the gas line. When the gas forced its way through, it came with a rush and caused an explosion." Mom sipped her lemonade. "Do you know why I told you this story?"
Willa studied her fingernails. "Because my temper exploded?"
Mom nodded. "Anger we allow to build up in our lives will eventually cause an explosion. But when we recognize our emotions and surrender them to Jesus, He will help us deal with our anger. He always forgives us when we act out of anger and will help us forgive others."
Willa sighed. "But Margot makes me so mad sometimes!"
"I know. I'm not saying you should never feel upset with anyone, because that's impossible. Just remember that Jesus understands how you feel. He loves you and wants to help you work things out."
Willa didn't want her anger to explode again. "Do you think you can help me talk to Margot and fix it?" She looked up and saw a smile on her mom's face.
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Have you lost your temper before? Do you let your angry feelings build until you feel like you're going to burst? When you feel upset, pray right away. Share your angry feelings with Jesus, and trust Him to give you peace and self-control. With His help, you can learn to work out conflicts in a forgiving, loving manner. If your anger feels overwhelming, ask an adult for help too.
Today's Key Verse:
"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:26 )
Today's Key Thought:
Give your difficult feelings to God
Bible Reading: Nehemiah 9:6; Psalm 121; Colossians 1:15-16
Maia was excited! She and her dad were going on an all-day excursion to the city zoo. "I love watching all the animals, but the penguins are my favorites," she said. "They look so funny strutting around on land, and it's even more fun to watch them swim. They look like they're flying underwater!" Whenever she went swimming herself, Maia would try to imitate the smooth, flowing motions of the birds.
At the zoo, a guide explained how the penguin room was kept cold so the birds would be comfortable. "Otherwise," he said, "the birds would get sick and possibly even die from the change of climate." Maia listened eagerly as he described a number of other special things that were done to keep the penguins comfortable and healthy.
That evening for devotions, Dad read Psalm 121. "How do these verses remind you of those penguins?" he asked after reading the psalm. "Remember how careful the zookeepers are in taking care of them?"
Maia nodded. "They make sure they get the foods they need, and they keep the room at the right temperature and even have special lights for them! The zookeepers know how to keep the conditions just right so the penguins won't get sick."
"Yes, and this psalm reminds me that God does the same thing for us," said Dad. "The Bible explains how God not only created our world with the conditions perfect for life but sustains it, meaning He controls everything and watches over us. The zookeepers don't just put the penguins in a tank and leave them be--they monitor them with care and loving attention."
"So God takes care of us, just like the zookeepers take care of the penguins," said Maia. "I think one of the verses in that psalm says God is our keeper, doesn't it?"
Dad nodded. "God is in control of both our physical environment and all the situations that affect our lives. He is a good and loving keeper who gives us all we need--including forgiveness, peace, and eternal life--through His Son, Jesus. Even when hard things happen, we can trust that God will work everything out for our good."
"Yeah," said Maia thoughtfully. Then a smile spread across her face. "I think we should go to the zoo more often to remind ourselves of that!"
–Deborah S. Marett
How About You?
Did you know that God is your keeper who watches over you day by day? He's the one who provides the air you breathe, the food and water you need, and the type of environment where you can survive. He also provides for all your spiritual needs through His Son, Jesus, who died for your sins so you could live with Him forever. Trust Him to care for you and work everything in your life out for good.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord is your keeper…The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore. (NKJV) (Psalm 121:5, 8)
Today's Key Thought:
God is your keeper
Bible Reading: Romans 6:5-7; Galatians 2:19-21
"You're so funny!" Shiloh laughed as his grandpa juggled three strawberries then caught one in his mouth. "Was he always like this, Dad?"
The two men looked at each other before Grandpa shook his head. "I wasn't a very good person when your dad was growing up."
Shiloh turned to his dad, expecting him to argue and say that Grandpa was just being humble. Dad didn't speak up though, just continued pouring cream into the bowl in front of him.
"The way that I was, and the way that I changed…" Grandpa handed Shiloh a strawberry. "It shows the power of God and how He can change anyone." Grandpa looked to Shiloh's dad, who was holding a whisk. "Look in that bowl, Shiloh."
He did, and he saw a whole lot of liquid. It looked like milk, but thicker.
"Start mixing," Grandpa told Dad. He put a hand on Shiloh's shoulder as Dad began whisking the liquid. "Once I trusted in Jesus to save me, I started to see that I needed to change my life. I saw all the things I was doing that were really selfish and how your dad needed me to be better."
Shiloh frowned. "You've always been nice to me. I only remember you being funny and kind and a good guy."
"Thank you." Grandpa chuckled. "I don't know if that's necessarily true, but thank you. It's all because of God." Grandpa pointed to the bowl in front of Dad. "Look at that!"
Shiloh looked and saw that the cream in the bowl was now thick and fluffy.
"Your dad transformed that cream into something else completely," Grandpa said. "Pouring liquid cream over these strawberries wouldn't be any good, but just wait until he serves them with that whipped cream after dinner--you're going to love it! And through the power of the Holy Spirit, who came into my life when I trusted in Jesus, God transformed me and made me into something different altogether. I feel bad that your dad only knew a worse version of me when he was young, but I'm thankful that God showed me grace."
Dad put an arm around Grandpa. "He shows grace to all of us."
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Do you believe that God can change lives? Have you seen Him change someone you know--maybe a parent, a sibling, or a friend? Has He changed your life? The Bible says that when we trust in Jesus, our old, sinful selves die with Him on the cross and we become new people who have His Spirit living in us. If you haven't yet trusted in Jesus, do it today, and He will transform you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
We know that our old life, our old sinful self, was nailed to the cross with Christ. And so the power of sin that held us was destroyed. (NLV) (Romans 6:6)
Today's Key Thought:
God can change lives
Bible Reading: James 1:21-27
"What time was it when you put dinner in the oven, Dad?" asked Liam. "I'm hungry! It seems like we've been waiting a long time for that lasagna to be ready, but I don't even smell it yet."
"I don't either," said Dad. He glanced at his watch. "The recipe said it would need to bake about an hour." Dad got up and went to the kitchen. "Oh no!" he exclaimed. "The button on the oven must have gotten stuck again--the oven didn't turn on! Looks like dinner won't be ready for a while."
"But Dad, I'm starving!" groaned Liam.
"I'm sorry. Let's have an apple while we wait." They each chose a shiny red apple.
"This reminds me of what Pastor Grey said at church last week," Dad remarked as he and Liam bit into their apples. "Do you remember what he told us?"
Liam nodded. "He said we often take in God's Word, but we don't apply it to our lives. But what's that got to do with the oven and our lasagna?"
"Well, we learn about God by going to church and reading the Bible. God's Word tells us how amazing He is and how we can have a relationship with Him through His Son, Jesus, who died and rose again to save us from sin. It also tells us how to live as His people so others can see His love in our lives. But if we hear what the Bible says but don't put it into practice, it's like we don't turn God's truth on in our lives. The knowledge just sits there--cold, like our lasagna. We need to do what the Bible says. The first thing we must do is trust in Jesus so He can fill our lives with His peace, love, and joy. Otherwise we're left--"
"Hungry," Liam finished with a frown. "Like I am now!"
"Spiritually hungry," said Dad. "And we can't continue to put God's words into practice by being kind and loving and unselfish toward others when we're spiritually hungry."
"Yeah," said Liam. "I have trouble doing those things when I'm physically hungry!"
Dad laughed. "Then it's a good thing I can smell the lasagna cooking!"
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Have you heard Bible stories and learned verses at church? Do you listen to the message they give and apply it to your life? Or do you forget about them the moment you leave church? If you don't apply what they teach you, they can't do you any good. Listen to the truth God gives in the Bible and then trust Him to help you put it into practice.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. (NIV) (James 1:22 )
Today's Key Thought:
Apply God's truth to your life
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-7
"Why do we have to get rid of Chomper?" Owen asked his dad. "He's so much fun!"
"I know you like having a pet goat, Owen, but he's cost us quite a bundle with all the mischief he's gotten into," said Dad.
Owen knew that was true. Their two sheep just ate grass, but the goat preferred the neighbors' flowers and shrubs. He'd also eaten two apple tree saplings Dad had planted. They tried to keep Chomper tied up, but he always got loose. They penned him in, but sooner or later, the clever goat managed to get out.
"Come see what he did today," said Dad. Owen followed his dad over to where a dozen wooden boards had been pulled from the side of the toolshed. Several chewed pieces lay scattered on the ground.
"Chomper does get into trouble a lot," admitted Owen. "But he's so smart!"
"He's definitely clever," said Dad. "But that's also what gets him into trouble. Goats can be useful and a lot of fun, but they have a well-earned reputation for making life difficult for their owners."
Owen sighed. "I guess so."
As they walked toward the house, Dad spoke up. "You know, people can be a lot like Chomper--clever and a lot of fun, but always getting into trouble."
Owen bit his lip, knowing Dad was talking about him. He often got in trouble at school for disrupting class and getting other kids to go along with his antics.
"Being smart, entertaining, and outgoing are good qualities," Dad continued. "They're part of who God created you to be, Owen. But you have to be careful not to let them cause you to lead others in doing wrong things."
"I know," said Owen. "I'll work on that."
"You don't have to do it alone," Dad said. "We all do selfish things sometimes and make life difficult for those around us, but Jesus promises to help us follow His example of love. He loves us so much that He died to save us, and He'll help us use the good qualities He's given us to show that kind of love to others."
Owen smiled. "That's good, because I want to remind people of Jesus, not Chomper!"
–Lorna B. Marlowe
How About You?
Are you someone who can find clever ways to have fun--even if it means breaking the rules? Do other kids go along with you and get in trouble too? That's not the way to be an example to others or use the gifts God has given you. Jesus sacrificed His life to save us and make us God's children, and He will help you live in a way that shows others His love. Follow His example so others can see His love in your actions.
Today's Key Verse:
Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us. (NLT) (Ephesians 5:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Follow Jesus's example
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:15, 21-25; James 3:17
"I don't know what to do!" Marnie told her mom after school. "Olivia asked me to spend the night on Friday, but I already told Juliet I'd go to her birthday party. I didn't want to tell Olivia why I can't, so I said I'd ask you."
"What are you going to tell Olivia tomorrow?" asked her mom.
Marnie sighed. "I could tell her you said no."
Mom shook her head. "That's not true."
"But she'll be sad she wasn't invited to Juliet's party!"
"Do you know what I do when I need advice?" asked Mom.
"You talk to Dad?"
"Your dad has plenty of good answers to my problems, but sometimes I need an even wiser source."
"The internet?"
Mom laughed. "I search the internet sometimes, but you can't always trust what you find there."
"I know," exclaimed Marnie. "The Bible!"
"Right. God and His Word are the best places to go for wisdom and understanding. That doesn't mean we'll always know exactly what to do in every situation, but the Bible is full of His truth and wise advice, and He loves to guide us when we pray about our problems. Why don't you ask God what to do?"
That night and the next morning, Marnie prayed. She also flipped through her Bible and read some verses. One of them talked about speaking the truth in love as people who belong to Jesus. By the time she arrived at school, she knew what she should do.
Marnie found Olivia before the bell rang. "Hey, Olivia. I'm really sorry, but I won't be able to spend the night Friday."
"How come?" Olivia asked.
"I was afraid to tell you yesterday, but Juliet had already asked me to her birthday sleep-over. I didn't want you to feel bad."
"Oh." Olivia looked a little sad. "That's okay. I know you've been friends with Juliet a long time."
Marnie grabbed Olivia's hand. "I have an idea! Why don't you spend the night at my house on Saturday? You can even come to church with me Sunday morning!"
Olivia's face brightened. "That sounds like fun. I'll ask my mom!"
–Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Where do you go for advice? When you aren't sure what to do, do you ask your parents, a teacher, or a good friend? Those are all good people to go to for answers, but don't forget to ask God too. The Bible is the most reliable place to find truth about right and wrong, and God loves to guide us in His wisdom. Whenever you have a problem, pray about it and trust Him to help you know what to do.
Today's Key Verse:
Do any of you need wisdom? Ask God for it. He is generous and enjoys giving to everyone. (ERV) (James 1:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Ask God for wisdom
Bible Reading: Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 41:10
** Editor's note: This story addresses school violence and may not be suitable for some children.
Paxton had a sick feeling in his stomach on the bus ride home from school as he thought about the day's events. He couldn't get the shrieking alarm or the wide, frightened eyes of his classmates out of his mind. Even though it had turned out to be a false alarm, Paxton could barely concentrate the rest of the day.
That night, he picked at his dinner. Mom took off her gun and badge and sat down at the table to eat with him.
"Officer Dwiley told me there was a false alarm at the school today," Mom said. "A man walked past the office without signing in. Everyone's on high alert after what happened at the school in Stenson last week. I'm glad they're being extra cautious, but it must have been scary for you. Paxton?" Mom frowned. "Are you feeling okay?"
Paxton slowly shook his head. "My stomach and head hurt all the time."
Mom reached across the table to squeeze his hand. "A school shooting is a very scary thing, even for adults."
"Easy for you to say," Paxton muttered, pulling his hand away. "You carry a gun."
Mom sighed. "Carrying a gun doesn't make me less scared. While you were at school today, I was praying for your safety and saying that verse I told you about."
"'God hasn't given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind,'" Paxton recited.
Mom smiled. "Fear is a natural response when something horrible like this happens. But we can't let it overwhelm us. We have to choose to trust God to protect us and those we love. And even if something terrible were to happen, Jesus would be there with us. He died and rose again to defeat sin and death so we could live with Him forever. Even though scary things happen in this world, we can have peace knowing He is always with us." Mom squeezed Paxton's hand again. "Will you say that verse at school tomorrow whenever your stomach or head start hurting?"
"Okay," Paxton said. "I'll try."
"Good," said Mom. "And I'd like you to talk to the student counselor too. It's good to have another adult there at school who knows how you're feeling."
–Christa Hogan
How About You?
Do the bad things that happen in this world fill you with fear? You may feel scared when you hear about them in the news or from friends. Maybe you even know someone involved in a scary incident. Whenever you feel afraid, turn to Jesus. He loves you and wants you to feel His peace. Trust Him to be with you when you feel afraid, and talk to an adult about your feelings too.
Today's Key Verse:
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) (2 Timothy 1:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Fear not--God is with you
Bible Reading: 1 John 2:15-17
Naina nudged her way in as her class formed a circle around a four-square game drawn on the concrete. "There's a place in the United States where four states meet just like these four squares do," said Mrs. Cline. Using a big piece of chalk, she wrote the name of one state--Utah--in one square, Colorado in another, New Mexico in a third, and Arizona in the last one. "Many tourists visit that site and enjoy walking from state to state," Mrs. Cline told the class. "They also like to be in more than one state at a time. Who can show us how that can be done?"
Naina eagerly raised her hand. When Mrs. Cline called on her, Naina knelt on the pavement with her right knee in the square marked Arizona, her left knee in Utah, her right hand in New Mexico, and her left hand in Colorado. "Good," said Mrs. Cline. "Many people who visit Four Corners, USA, do the same thing."
That evening, Naina told her parents about the demonstration. "It was fun to pretend to be in four states at once," she said.
"I remember when I first heard about standing in more than one state at a time," Dad said. "When I was a freshman in high school, I heard it from my youth group leader."
"From your youth group leader?" asked Naina.
"My leader mentioned Four Corners and said we should be careful about trying to stand in two different states spiritually," Dad explained. "He said that as Christians we sometimes try to be in the state of following Jesus and in the state of worldly living at the same time. We might say we stand on Jesus and His truth, but we also want to have one foot in the world."
Mom nodded. "At Four Corners, are you actually in Colorado if you have one foot in New Mexico or one of the other states?"
"Well, not entirely," Naina admitted.
"No, and we can't really love Jesus and love the world at the same time either," said Dad. "This world is full of sin, but Jesus has saved us from sin and given us eternal life. Our hope is in Him, not in worldly things that won't last. That's why we need to follow Him wholeheartedly in every area of our lives."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Are you following Jesus wholeheartedly? Or are you trying to keep one foot in the ways of this world? Even though we live in the world, it's not where we belong--we belong to Jesus. So don't try to be in two places at once by holding on to sinful ways that don't fit the new life Jesus has given you, even if the world says it's okay. Leave them behind and follow Jesus alone.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. (NKJV) (Romans 12:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Follow Jesus, not the world
Bible Reading: Jeremiah 29:11-13; Philippians 4:6-8
"What's this?" asked Rebecca. She pulled a toy rocket ship from a box she was unpacking for her cousin. "Judy! You never told me that you wanted to be an astronaut!"
"I don't," said Judy, shaking her head. "My dad bought it because I didn't want to move away."
Rebecca's brow wrinkled. "I don't get it."
Judy stretched out her hand. "Let me show you." Rebecca gave the toy to Judy, who tilted her wrist and aimed it at the desk. "When a rocket's in the right position to fly where it's supposed to go, astronauts say it has the correct attitude." She steered the spaceship through the air. "Dad said God brought us here because it's where He wants us to be, so moving to this house is just changing our position--like a rocket ship changing its attitude to stay on course." She landed the toy on her desk. "Dad's happy about his new job, but…" Judy sighed. "I feel the opposite."
She returned to her boxes. She opened one filled with books and passed some to Rebecca. "I miss my friends, and I'm nervous about going to a new school. I won't know anyone."
After Rebecca arranged the books on a shelf, she studied the titles and pulled one out. "How about keeping your Bible here?" She placed it next to the rocket ship. "You need a guidance system."
"What do you mean?" asked Judy.
"Pray. Ask Jesus to guide your attitude." Rebecca tapped the spaceship's wing. "Not only the kind for going in the right direction, but the regular kind of attitude too. You know, the way you feel about being here."
Judy shrugged. "I didn't think I should bother Him with this stuff."
Rebecca sat down on the edge of Judy's bed. "Jesus cares about you and wants to help you in every situation. He gave His life so you'd never have to worry about the future, knowing He would always be with you. Tell him your feelings and trust Him to guide you along His path for your life. He promises to be with you and help you every step of the way."
Judy hugged her cousin. "I like your plan. I'll pray for the right attitude--both kinds!"
–Elena Dee
How About You?
How do you react to change in your life? Do new, unfamiliar things make you feel uncertain or worried? Whether it's moving to a new place, going to a new school, or even disrupting a familiar routine, change can be hard. But if we remember that God promises to be with us, then change can be less scary--perhaps even a challenge or an adventure! Ask Jesus to help you have the right attitude as you trust Him to guide you and be with you wherever you go.
Today's Key Verse:
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (NIV) (Joshua 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God to guide you
Bible Reading: Luke 10:30-37
As Molly and Asher passed a tall fence surrounding an empty lot on their way home from school, they heard the sound of crying. They peeked through one of the broken slats and were astonished to see the school bully, Ryan Taylor, sitting in the dirt and sobbing on the other side.
"Look," Molly whispered, pointing. "He busted his bike." The badly wrecked bike lay in a heap. Ryan had a skinned knee and blood on his face. Asher and Molly looked at him for a moment and then hurried on by, each secretly thinking that Ryan Taylor had finally gotten what he deserved.
Not long after they got home, Molly and Asher heard Dad drive in. When they went to the kitchen, they were amazed to find Dad helping Ryan Taylor into the house! Dad pulled out a chair for Ryan, and Mom quickly began cleaning his knee and face. Molly and Asher hung back near the wall as Ryan told Dad that he lived with his grandmother. Soon Ryan and his wrecked bike were on their way home in Dad's car.
"I'm so glad your dad came along when he did," said Mom. "Not everyone helps people like your father does. He's really a Good Samaritan."
"A Good Samaritan?" asked Molly.
"You mean like the man in the Bible who helped another man on the side of the road when no one else did?" asked Asher.
"Yes," said Mom. "The priest and Levite in that story--religious leaders you'd expect would help--pretended not to see the man in trouble and just went on their way. But the Good Samaritan went out of his way to help him, and your dad is like that--he loves Jesus, and he knows Jesus loves everyone so much that He died for us and wants us to show His love to others, even those who don't seem like they deserve it."
Molly and Asher looked at each other, knowing they should have helped Ryan. Then Asher had an idea. "Do you think Ryan would like to have my old blue bike? I haven't used it since I got my new one, but it's still good."
"Good idea!" said Mom. "That's a great way to show Ryan God's love."
–Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Do you help people whenever you can, even if they don't treat you or other people well? God loves them, and He wants you to love them too--to treat them as neighbors and love them as you love yourself. That's loving them quite a lot, isn't it? But when you remember how much God loves you--so much that Jesus died for your sins so you could have eternal life with Him--it's easier to show that love to others.
Today's Key Verse:
Love your neighbor as yourself. (NKJV) (Matthew 19:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Love everyone
Bible Reading: Luke 16:10-12
Rex sat in the living room and pouted while his sister played in her room with her new guinea pig. If Lyra can have a guinea pig, I don't see why I can't have a lizard! he thought angrily.
"Rex," Dad said when Rex complained about it later that day, "you don't have any excuse for acting like this. You had the same chance to have a lizard as Lyra did to have a guinea pig. If you had taken good care of your goldfish, we would have allowed you to get a lizard. But you didn't take care of your fish--you never fed it or cleaned its bowl. Lyra had to take over and care for your fish as well as hers."
"But I don't like goldfish anymore!" said Rex.
"Well, you should have thought of that before bringing it home from the school carnival. When you bring things home--especially living things--you have to take care of them. If we can't trust you to take care of something small that you're responsible for, how can we expect you to care for something bigger and more complicated, like a lizard?" Dad paused. "You know, Rex, it's a good thing to remember that God often works in this way too."
"What do you mean?" asked Rex. "Are you saying I shouldn't ask Him for a lizard?"
"No," said Dad. "I'm saying that God usually trusts His children with small tasks before giving them bigger things to do. I've known people who had dreams of doing great things with their lives to serve God, but they lacked the discipline to follow through on things that seem small--like doing everyday tasks faithfully and with a good attitude." Dad squeezed Rex's shoulder. "Doing well in small things--even jobs like caring for a goldfish--helps us prepare for bigger tasks God might give us later on. He uses the small things we do to help us learn and grow to become more like Jesus, who is always faithful in everything He does."
Rex thought about his father's words. "Dad?" he said after a moment. "Can I have my goldfish back?"
Dad smiled. "I suppose we could give it another try."
–Lyndel F. Walker
How About You?
Do you do your tasks and schoolwork when you're supposed to? Do you treat your friends and family with kindness and respect, even when things don't go your way? Those may seem like small things, but they're important to God, and doing them shows that you can be trusted with bigger responsibilities later on. Be faithful with the small things God has put in your life now so He can use them to prepare you for bigger things in the future.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever can be trusted with small things can also be trusted with big things. (ERV) (Luke 16:10 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be faithful in small things
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:29-32; 5:1-2
Journee watched eagerly as her grandmother began to make popcorn. "Tell me about school, Journee," said Grandma. "Have you made new friends?"
Journee sighed. "Not really. I've tried to make friends, but it's not easy to move to a new town and go to a new school, Grandma."
As Journee talked about the kids at school, Grandma noticed that she complained about many of them. "Are you being friendly to them?" Grandma asked. Journee shrugged, watching as Grandma poured popcorn into a bowl and handed it to her.
Journee took the bowl and began to eat the popcorn. But then she frowned and put the bowl down. "It needs salt," she said.
"Oh, that's right!" said Grandma. "I forgot the kind I popped was salt-free--Grandpa wasn't allowed to have salt for a while, you know." She reached for the salt shaker. "I'm wondering if your attempts to make friends might be something like this popcorn," she added.
"Like popcorn?" asked Journee. "What do you mean?"
"Well, without salt, there isn't much flavor to popcorn," said Grandma. "The Bible says our speech is like that too--it needs salt. I'm just wondering if you're using it."
Journee made a face. "You're not saying I should carry a salt shaker around and sprinkle some on my tongue before I talk, are you?"
Grandma laughed and shook her head. "No, but you need to recognize that if your words are negative, complaining, or focused only on yourself, people won't want any more after the first taste. But if your words are seasoned with salt--if you're saying things that are helpful and kind and let people know you care about them--they'll like talking with you and will come back for more." She handed Journee the bowl of popcorn. "Try this again," said Grandma. "See how it is now."
Journee took the bowl and put some in her mouth. "Yum!" she said. "Salt really makes a difference!"
Grandma nodded. "Ask God to help you use a little salt at school tomorrow too. Since you know Jesus, you can show the same love and care for others that He does. Trust Him to help you season your words with His love and be a friend like Him."
–Sheri Shaw
How About You?
When you talk, do you often complain or put others down? Are your conversations mostly about yourself and what you're dealing with? Or do you ask others about their lives and say things that are kind and encouraging? Try adding a little salt to your words by saying things that show others you care about them. Let them see that you can be a kind, caring friend like Jesus by seasoning your words with His love.
Today's Key Verse:
Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt. (CSB) (Colossians 4:6 )
Today's Key Thought:
Speak kind, caring words
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:1-6; John 3:16-17
"Dad, how many people are on earth?" asked Sophia one evening.
"I don't remember exactly," said Dad. "Billions. Did you talk about that in school?"
"No," said Sophia, "but our teacher at church talked about how God loves every person, and some of us were wondering how many people that would be."
"Well, I don't know the number, but your teacher is right--God does love each person," Dad replied. "He loves us all so much that Jesus died for the sins of the whole world."
"Since there are so many people, you'd think He'd forget who's who," said Sophia. "I mean, lots of girls have brown hair and brown eyes and are named Sophia. There are even two in my class! So how does God know which one is me?" She grinned. "You know, the one hoping for a new bike for her birthday!"
Dad laughed. "Don't worry, honey. God knows you're the one who wants a new bike--and I can't seem to forget either!"
Mom came in and picked up her sweater. "The cake-baking contest at the school gym is tonight, and I'm ready to leave. Who wants to come along?"
"We all do," said Dad. "Let's go!"
At the gym, cakes on identical glass holders filled several tables. "They're all alike!" exclaimed Sophia. "Except some are white and some are chocolate."
"They're being tested strictly for taste, not looks," said Mom, "so the rules said they were to have no decorations. But I know which one is mine." Her eyes searched each table. "There!" Mom pointed to the table with chocolate cakes. "The second one from the end--that one's mine."
"Are you sure?" Sophia asked. "It looks the same as the others to me."
"Not to me," said Mom. "And yes, I'm sure. I made it, and I see little differences, like how the frosting is swirled."
Dad smiled at Sophia. "Remember what we were talking about at home? God made you, and you are very special to Him. No two people look the same to Him--He made each of us unique and knows everything about us. Mom knows her cake, and God knows you. There's no way He'd mix you up with anyone else."
–Suzanne Daly
How About You?
Do you ever wonder if God knows who you are? He does! He created you and made you the way you are, and He knows everything about you. The Bible says He even knows the number of hairs on your head (Matthew 10:30). He sent His own Son to die for you so you could be part of His family. Know that He loves you and cares about every part of your life.
Today's Key Verse:
This is what the Lord says--the one who created you…"Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine." (CSB) (Isaiah 43:1)
Today's Key Thought:
God knows you
Bible Reading: Luke 12:15-21
"La Noche Triste," murmured Harrison as his sister Cara entered the living room. "I gotta remember that--it might be on our test tomorrow."
"What does it mean?" asked Cara.
"It's Spanish for 'The Night of Sorrows.' You'll learn about it next year," Harrison said as he closed his social studies book.
"Why is it called that?" Cara wanted to know.
"Well, it's something that happened more than four hundred years ago," said Harrison. "The Aztecs--one of the native people groups in Mexico--had a great city on an island. A Spanish leader by the name of Cortés was able to take his army into the city because the Aztec ruler thought the Spanish leader was a god.
"But the Spanish were hungry for money and power, which made the Aztecs distrustful of them," Harrison continued. "After hearing rumors that the Aztecs might try to kill them, the Spanish attacked and killed a number of Aztec people at a festival. Then Cortés and his men knew they had to leave. But before they did, they loaded up all the gold they could carry. As they tried to escape, the Aztecs attacked them. Many Spanish soldiers tried to swim to the mainland, but they drowned because the weight of the gold pulled them down. It was called 'The Night of Sorrows' because more than half of the Spanish army died that night."
"Wow! Why didn't they get rid of the gold when they realized it was weighing them down?" asked Cara.
Harrison shrugged. "I don't know. I guess they were greedy and wanted to keep it."
"It sounds like they had a lot in common with us today," said Dad, who had been listening. "Many of us try to get as much earthly treasure as we possibly can--even when it means other people get hurt. We seem to think money and the power that comes with it is more important than anything else, but we're never satisfied."
"And there are lots of things money can't buy," said Cara. "The sermon in church last week was about that. Peace, joy, contentment, and especially the forgiveness of sins and living with God forever--we can only have those things by trusting in Jesus."
Dad nodded. "Jesus is the only treasure that brings eternal life--and He gives it to us for free."
–Jean A. Burns
How About You?
How important is money to you? Do you think it can buy you anything you want? If you think that, you're wrong. Some people spend their whole lives trying to get more and more money thinking it will make them happy, but the only way to have true joy and satisfaction is through Jesus Christ. Accept His free gift of eternal life today! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
What do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? (NLT) (Mark 8:36)
Today's Key Thought:
Money can't satisfy
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 5:6-11
Elin was trying to concentrate on her math lesson when her mother appeared in the doorway of her room. "How's the homework coming?" Mom asked.
Elin shrugged. "We're having a test tomorrow, and I'm afraid I won't pass it. I can't seem to study." She let out a big sigh. "Since Dad went to rehab, my mind is always somewhere else."
Mom came in and put her arm around Elin. "I understand, honey. I miss him too."
Elin slammed her book shut. "Mom, why didn't God answer our prayers? Didn't we pray enough? Is it our fault Dad kept getting worse and had to go to rehab?"
"No, El, it's not our fault at all. We did all we could to help him," Mom assured her. "I don't know why God allowed things to happen the way they did, but I know He loves your dad and can heal him and help him change. At least now he's on the right track to getting better. Let's continue to pray for Dad and for each other--God answers prayer, but in His own time and in His own way."
Elin's eyes filled with tears. "But what about us now? Doesn't God care about us?"
"Oh, Elin, the same God who loved us so much that He gave His Son to die for us loves us just as much now as ever. I know it's hard, but just like we trusted Jesus to save us from our sin, we can trust Him to take care of us now. He can give us peace--He's the only one who can do that. Do you remember the verse you learned in church last week?"
Elin nodded. "Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you."
"It looks like you have two tests to pass right now," Mom said as she smoothed Elin's hair back from her face. "One is your math test, and the other is remembering God's promise to care for you, even when things are hard. With God's help, I'm confident you can manage both."
"Okay," said Elin. "I'll try to remember how much God cares for me." She smiled and opened her math book. "I think I can study now."
–Marie Shropshire
How About You?
Do you know how much God cares for you? Maybe you're facing a tough situation and wonder if God cares about what you're going through. He does. Jesus loves you just as much now as He did when He died for your sins. Even when you don't understand why He allows difficult things to happen, know that He is with you, and depend on Him to take care of you.
Today's Key Verse:
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7 )
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God to care for you
Bible Reading: Genesis 3:9-13
Aria flipped open a small manual that had come with their new toaster and started reading. "Some of these warnings are funny!" she said to Mom. "Listen. 'Do not put under water. Do not touch hot surfaces. Do not put fingers in slots.' Anybody with any sense at all would know not to do those things. Why do they write them in the instructions?"
"They do seem pretty silly, but you might be surprised how many people would do some of those things," replied Mom. "Then if the toaster breaks or they get hurt, they might blame the manufacturer if those warnings weren't in the manual. Sometimes people even go to court and sue for a lot of money."
"Even though it's their own fault?" asked Aria's brother Aidan.
Mom nodded. "It's human nature to blame somebody else. Both Adam and Eve did it in the Garden of Eden, and people have been doing it ever since. Who do you think gets blamed more than anyone else?"
"I do!" declared Aidan.
"You do not," said Aria.
"I'd say it's God," said Mom. "He often gets blamed for bad things that happen, even though it was Adam and Eve's disobedience that brought sin into the world and made a mess of everything. Yet God loves us so much that He sent Jesus to save us from sin, and He gives us detailed instructions on how we should live, but people often ignore them. Then when something goes wrong because of something they did, they blame God even though they're the ones who didn't follow His instructions."
"Like when Aidan fell out of his window and broke his leg trying to sneak out of the house when he was grounded last year," said Aria.
"Hey!" said Aidan. "I didn't blame anyone for my fall--I admitted it was my fault and accepted responsibility." Aidan grinned at his sister. "And now I'm a model son." Aria and Mom both laughed.
Mom picked up the toaster manual. "I'll put this away for now, but God's instructions to us shouldn't be left in a drawer. Let's all read something from our Bibles each day so we can remember what God has done for us and how He wants us to live. Instead of playing the blame game, we can confess our wrongs to Him and He will forgive us."
–Heather Tekavec
How About You?
Do you accept responsibility for what you do? Or do you look for someone to blame when something goes wrong? Life is never free from pain or problems. Sometimes our difficulties come from living in a sinful, broken world, but other times they're caused by our own wrongful actions. When you mess up, don't play the blame game. Accept responsibility for your actions, remembering that God loves you and is always willing to forgive.
Today's Key Verse:
People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. (NLT) (Proverbs 28:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Accept responsibility
Bible Reading: Psalm 62:5-8
Layla and Benton ran to the car and jumped into the back seat. "Don't forget to buckle up!" said Benton.
"Way ahead of you!" Layla said as she buckled in.
Mom turned around and looked at them. "You two sure are excited about buckling your seat belts today."
Layla and Benton looked at each other and started laughing. "Well," said Layla, "we learned about seat belts in church today."
"In church?" asked Mom.
"Yup," said Benton. "In our Sunday school class."
"Did you know that trusting God is like wearing a seat belt?" asked Layla.
"That's a new one to me," said Dad. "Explain."
"Mr. Perkins said we have seat belts in our cars to keep us safe--especially in case of an accident," said Benton. "He said that instead of bouncing all over the place when we go over bumpy roads, seat belts keep us secure. He said that's the way it is with trusting God too."
"Yeah," said Layla. "These seat belts are always here, but if we never buckle up, it can really be dangerous and scary! God is always here with us too, and He promises to take care of us. But if we don't trust Him, we worry and don't feel secure and safe."
"That's a good way of looking at it," said Mom. "Jesus died for us so we could have peace and eternal life with Him. He is always with us to guide and help us, but if we don't trust Him, then we can end up feeling very worried and afraid when times get hard."
"Right," said Dad. "Life can be a bumpy road, and trusting Jesus doesn't mean we won't ever feel worried or insecure. It just means that when we do feel that way, we can look to Jesus for peace and remember that He is watching over us." Dad started the car. "Well, I don't know about you guys, but I'm ready for lunch," he said as he put the car in reverse.
"Um, Dad," said Layla, "I think you forgot something."
"What?" asked Dad.
Layla and Benton burst out laughing. "Buckle up!" they shouted.
–Ann La Comb
How About You?
Are you buckled up--do you trust God even when life gets bumpy? Or are you filled with worry and fear when you face problems or when things seem uncertain? We all feel worried and afraid sometimes, but Jesus offers us His peace and promises to be with us. Whether the road you're on now in life is smooth or bumpy, trust God and know that He is with you and will take care of you, even when things are hard.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever trusts in the Lord is kept safe. (NIV) (Proverbs 29:25)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God in all circumstances
Bible Reading: Romans 3:21-24
"Mom, where's Rudy?" asked Joel as he came in after school, looking for his dog. "She's not in the yard."
Mom sighed heavily. "I'm sorry to have to tell you this, Joel, but after lunch I found the gate open, and Rudy was gone. I drove all around the neighborhood, but I couldn't find her." Joel groaned and covered his eyes, and Mom squeezed his shoulder. "Rudy's name and owner information are on her chip and collar tag," she said. "Maybe someone will find her and call us."
Time moved slowly that evening, and Joel couldn't concentrate on his homework. He kept waiting for the phone to ring. He was upstairs when a call finally came. Mom's voice sounded excited, and Joel bounded down the stairs, two at a time. "Did someone find Rudy?" he asked anxiously.
"Yes!" Mom said as she picked up her purse and keys. "She's at the animal control center." As they drove to the center, Mom explained what had happened. "Somebody saw Rudy running around loose and called animal control. They sent a truck to pick her up and take her to the center, so now we have to pay the required fee to get her back."
Joel frowned. "We have to pay money?" Mom nodded. "But she belongs to us!" said Joel. "We'd be buying our own dog back."
Mom smiled at Joel's look of disbelief. "We have to redeem her," she told him. "The word redeem means to buy back, and buying our own dog back is a good picture of what God did for us. He made us, so in that sense we belong to Him. But our sin separated us from God, so He had to redeem us--to buy us back by paying for all the wrong things we've done."
Joel nodded. "I learned a verse about that. God didn't redeem us with money. He redeemed us with the blood of His Son, Jesus Christ."
"Yes," said Mom. "Because Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sin, we can be forgiven and truly belong to God."
Soon they arrived at the animal control center, picked up Rudy, and were on their way home. Rudy was so excited she could hardly sit still. "Rudy's glad to be redeemed," Joel said as he patted Rudy's head. "And so am I!"
–Pauline Youd
How About You?
Have you been redeemed? Jesus paid a big redemption fee--His own precious blood--so your sins could be forgiven and you could belong to Him. If you've never trusted Him as your Savior, do it today and He will redeem you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
You were not redeemed with…silver or gold…but with the precious blood of Christ. (NKJV) (1 Peter 1:18-19)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus died to redeem you
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 2:14-17
"Oh no!" exclaimed Mom when she heard a wail from upstairs.
"I bet Katelyn broke something again," said Timothy. "Kate!" Mom called. "What's the problem?" There was no reply, so Mom headed up the stairs with Timothy following close behind. As they reached the top step, Katelyn appeared at Mom's bedroom door.
Timothy wrinkled his nose. "What's that smell?" he asked.
Katelyn's eyes filled with tears. "I was dusting your room like you asked me to, Mom. When I was moving things on the dresser, I accidentally knocked over your perfume--that bottle Aunt Carol gave you. It didn't break, but I guess it wasn't shut tight, and some spilled out. I'm sorry, Mom! I didn't mean to do it."
"Don't worry," said Mom gently. "It was an accident."
"Ugh!" said Timothy, holding his nose. "Why does it smell so bad?
"It doesn't smell bad!" said Katelyn. "It smells good--it's just a bit stronger than it's supposed to be because I spilled it."
Timothy made a gagging sound and pretended to fall to the floor.
Katelyn grinned at her brother. "In my class at church last week, my teacher said Christians should always give off a nice scent--and that includes you, Timothy!"
Timothy looked horrified. "There's no way I'm letting myself smell like that!"
Mom laughed. "I don't think Katelyn's teacher was talking about perfume, Timothy. She was talking about the fragrance of Christ. Right, Katelyn?"
Timothy looked puzzled, but Katelyn nodded. "She said Christians fill the world with the good news of Jesus. She said that's like a sweet-smelling fragrance."
"So, how do we do that--without smelling like this," Timothy asked, pointing toward the spilled perfume.
"When we're helpful, kind to others, forgiving, patient--in other words, when we rely on Jesus to help us treat others with the same kind of love He has shown us--we become channels of His love to those around us," Mom explained. "The Bible refers to that as the fragrance of Christ--and that's a scent both guys and girls should spread around. Does that make sense?"
Timothy grinned at his mom. "Yeah, that does make sense--but no one should be making scents like this perfume!" he said as he covered his nose and mouth. "I'd much rather give off the fragrance of Christ."
–Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
What kind of scent are you spreading around? Are you filling your home, school, and neighborhood with the fragrance of Christ by what you do and say? It's not always easy to love others the way Jesus does, but He promises to work through you so others will be drawn to the sweet-smelling fragrance of His love in your life. Trust Him to help you show others who He is through your words and actions.
Today's Key Verse:
For we are to God the fragrance of Christ among those who are being saved. (NKJV) (2 Corinthians 2:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Spread the fragrance of Christ
Bible Reading: John 10:1-5, 14, 27-30
"Brielle, I have a surprise to show you," announced Dad one morning. "Remember the bird's nest I showed you out here?" Dad pointed to a large plant that hung outside the window. "The five eggs in it have all hatched."
Brielle's eyes grew wide as her father lifted her onto a chair so she could peek into the nest. "Where are the baby birds? I don't see anything but a pile of fuzz and twigs in there."
"Watch," said Dad as he cracked open the window. He made clicking noises with his tongue, and suddenly five tiny heads popped up out of the fuzz.
"Oh, I see them!" squealed Brielle. "They have their eyes closed." Gradually the heads sank back into the fuzz. "Do it again, Dad," begged Brielle. So Dad made the clicking noise again, and the five heads popped back up.
Brielle and Dad visited the birds every day. Soon their eyes opened, and they got new, larger feathers. But they eventually stopped responding to Dad's clicking noise. "They know I'm just fooling them and that I'm not really one of their parents coming to bring them dinner," Dad told her when she asked him about it. Then he added, "We're kind of like those baby birds. We have to learn whose voice is whose."
"But I know when it's you telling me something, or when it's Mom," Brielle assured him. "Or Grandma or Grandpa, or Mrs. Jones, or whoever."
"Yes, but we have to be able to identify God's voice too," Dad said.
"How do we do that?" asked Brielle.
"By learning about God from the Bible. He will never go against what He says there. The more we learn about who God is, the easier it becomes to recognize His voice."
Brielle thought for a moment. "Well, I know God loves people because He sent Jesus to die for us, so He will always tell us to love people too."
"It sounds like you're learning to recognize God's voice already," said Dad with a smile. "Other voices we hear might tell us to do whatever we want, but God's voice reminds us that only Jesus can satisfy our hearts and fill our lives with hope, joy, and peace. He's the one who feeds our souls with His love, and we need to learn to recognize His voice and do what He says."
–Pauline Youd
How About You?
Do you recognize God's voice when He speaks to you? In today's Bible reading, Jesus refers to Himself as the good shepherd and those who know Him as His sheep. Sheep recognize their shepherd's voice, and as you grow in your relationship with Jesus, you'll learn more about Him and what His voice sounds like. Get to know Him better by reading and studying the Bible, and listen to what He says.
Today's Key Verse:
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. (NKJV) (John 10:27)
Today's Key Thought:
Learn to recognize God's voice
Bible Reading: Ephesians 2:1-10
"Mom! Mom!" called Wyatt one morning. "Look what happened!" He clutched a glass jar with holes punched in the lid and some twigs and leaves on the inside.
Mom and Emily, Wyatt's little sister, went to see. Mom took the jar, and they peered through the glass. "Oh, cool!" said Mom.
"Cool?" wailed Emily. "How can you say that? Wriggly's dead! He's all closed up in that dead piece of skin. He's not even moving!"
"It's okay, honey," said Mom. "He's just beginning the next phase of his life. I know you liked Wriggly as a caterpillar, but this is all part of God's plan for caterpillars. You knew this would happen. We talked about it, remember?"
"Yeah, Emily," said Wyatt. "When the time is right, caterpillars like Wriggly weave a chrysalis around themselves, and then they change."
"Oh, right," said Emily. "I forgot."
"The chrysalis is what you see around Wriggly now," said Mom. "In a way, he dies as a caterpillar while he's in the chrysalis. But in a few weeks, you'll get to see him as a new creature. He won't be a caterpillar anymore--he'll be a butterfly." Mom smiled. "It reminds me of when a person becomes a Christian," she added. "We're spiritually dead when we're born into this world. But when we place our faith in Jesus, we become part of God's family, and we're changed. We become alive in Him. Wriggly will be more beautiful when he leaves that chrysalis, and our new life in Christ is much more beautiful and free than the old one was."
Wyatt grinned. "And we didn't even have to spin a chrysalis!"
Mom laughed. "Nope--God does the work in us. He gives us the Holy Spirit, who transforms us and makes us new."
"When Wriggly comes out of the chrysalis, all new and beautiful, do you think I should give him a new name?" asked Wyatt.
"That might be a good idea," said Mom with a smile. "I don't think I've ever seen a wriggly butterfly!"
–Lyndel F. Walker
How About You?
Did you know that without Jesus, you're spiritually dead? But the good news is that you can be alive! Jesus gives new life to those who trust Him as their Savior. When you trust in Him, He gives you eternal life that starts that very moment! God says you actually become a new person when Jesus gives you life through the Holy Spirit. Trust in Jesus today, and He will give you a new, beautiful life. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (NLT) (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus gives new life
Bible Reading: Matthew 4:18-22
Ruben sighed. He wished a fish would take the bait on his hook. At last the bobber began to jiggle. "I've finally got
a bite!" Ruben jerked the pole quickly, but there was no fish, and most of the bait was gone.
"That must be the big one that got away," Grandpa said with a chuckle as he handed Ruben a fresh worm to put on the hook. "Don't give up. Try again."
A little later, Ruben pulled up his line again. "I got one this time!" He took a fish off the hook and put it in the pail of water.
"You sure did!" said Grandpa. "Let's see how many more we can catch."
After Ruben and Grandpa caught several more fish, Grandpa put the oars in place and rowed for shore. "Jesus talked to His disciples about fishing," Grandpa said as he pulled on the oars. "Some of them fished for a living, so they understood fish talk. Do you remember what Jesus said they should do?"
"He told them to fish for people." Ruben grinned. "But how do you do that, Grandpa? People don't eat worms."
Grandpa laughed. "That's true. So you need to offer them a different kind of food--spiritual food. You offer them the Bread of Life. That's what Jesus called Himself, remember? He's the only one who can satisfy our souls and give us true life."
Ruben thought about that for a moment. "People don't always bite though."
"No, they don't," said Grandpa. "Some don't want to hear about Jesus at all. Others are like fish that just nibble--they're curious at first, but lose interest after a while. But…" Grandpa's eyes sparkled like the water around the boat. "Other people are like the fish we caught. They want to know all they can and eventually decide to trust Jesus as their Savior." He pointed to the fish in the bucket. "We kept on fishing even though they weren't biting at first, right? And it paid off. We need to keep fishing for people too."
Ruben grinned as he admired the fish they had caught. "So even when it seems like they're not biting, we have to keep telling people about Jesus."
–Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Do you fish for people? Do you share your faith and tell others about Jesus and how much He loves them? It can be frustrating when people don't seem to want to listen, but don't give up. Let others know what He's doing in your life--maybe by mentioning a prayer that was answered or a Bible verse that helped you during a rough time. Most importantly, keep praying for those who don't know Jesus and showing them His love.
Today's Key Verse:
"Come, follow me," Jesus said, "and I will send you out to fish for people." (NIV) (Matthew 4:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Fish for people
Bible Reading: Colossians 3:12-17
Thea turned a page and showed a picture of Papa Bear to her little sister, then continued to read the story aloud. "'Who's been eating my porridge?' growled Papa Bear."
Their brother Eamon spoke up. "Papa Bear could have found out who ate it if he had lifted fingerprints from his spoon. Everybody has a different set of prints. No two are alike--ever. Match the prints and you've got the criminal."
"That's great, Eamon. Now let us finish the story," said Thea.
But Eamon grabbed his magnifying glass and held it above Thea's fingers. "See those ridges? They leave a mark on everything you touch. Police investigators use special powders to dust for fingerprints. The powder sticks to the invisible ridge marks. The investigator carefully brushes away the dust between the ridges and takes a picture of it." Eamon sat back. "The print can be lifted with print-lifting tape too."
"Eamon! We don't care about fingerprints right now. We just want to read the story," said Thea.
"Well, I just thought you should know in case you get any ideas about going into my room and messing with my stuff," Eamon said with a smirk. "I know how to lift prints with the detective kit I got for my birthday, so you'll be sorry if you do!"
Thea rolled her eyes. "Like I'd want to touch anything in your messy room!"
"I think there's another kind of print we should be more concerned about," said Mom, who had come into the room. "We need to think about the prints we're leaving on other people's lives."
"Prints on people's lives? What does that mean?" asked Eamon.
"I'm talking about the impressions we make on others," Mom replied. "Like fingerprints, they identify us--not by ridges, but by what's in our hearts. Our words and actions leave behind impressions that affect others. As Christians, we want those impressions to match the love Jesus has put in our hearts."
"Because then we'll be pointing people to Him, right?" asked Thea.
"Right," said Mom. "We need to speak and act in a way that helps people know how much Jesus loves them. No two people have the same fingerprints, but when we rely on Jesus to help us love others the way He loves us, the impressions we leave behind will point to Him."
–Lucinda J. Rollings
How About You?
What kind of impressions do you leave on others? Are the things you do and say kind and uplifting--or selfish and hurtful? If you're a Christian, the impressions you leave on others should point to Jesus. He shows His love for us through qualities like kindness, patience, and forgiveness. Treat others the same way so the impressions you leave behind identify you as someone who has His love in your heart.
Today's Key Verse:
By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. (NIV) (John 13:35 )
Today's Key Thought:
Leave good impressions
Bible Reading: Mark 4:1-9; Romans 10:17; Philippians 4:8-9
"Sea lion caves," read Graham. He pointed to a sign next to the road along the Oregon coast. "We're there!"
Dad nodded and drove into the parking lot. Soon the family stood in the underground viewing area, close enough to see, smell, and hear the roaring creatures.
When a torpedo-shaped body with a whiskered, cat-like face slid through the water and clambered up onto the cave floor, Dad took out his phone. "That type of seal is called the Stellar sea lion," he said. "This website says the spots that look like dimples on the side of the seal's head are tiny ears. Most seals just have openings, but the Stellar sea lion is an eared seal. When it dives, those little ear flaps cover the openings, and when it surfaces, the ears open up again."
"Wow! That's cool," said Graham.
After watching the sea lions for a while, Graham and his family returned to their car and went on their way. As they drove, they talked about the seals. "Why didn't God give me ears that would close?" Graham asked, laughing at the thought of his ears opening and closing. "I'd like to be able to shut some things out that I didn't want to hear."
"I thought you could do that already," said Mom, pretending to be surprised. "You never seem to hear me when I tell you to clean your room!"
Graham smiled sheepishly. He knew she was teasing, but he suspected she wasn't totally joking either.
"That's a good point," said Dad. "God didn't give you ear flaps, Graham, but He did give you the ability to open and close your ears in another way. You can open your ears by listening to what's being said and close them by not paying attention. It's important to open your ears to what your parents, teachers, and especially God have to say."
"That's right," said Mom. "God often uses parents and teachers to help us understand what He tells us in the Bible--the truth about what Jesus did to save us and how we should live as God's children. We need to open our ears so we can hear and obey."
–Bernice S. Karnop
How About You?
Have you ever tried to open and close your ears? Though you don't have ear flaps like a sea lion, you can choose to listen to or ignore what others say. When parents and teachers are talking to you, pay attention to their words. Most important of all, open your ears to what God says in the Bible. It tells us how much He loves us and how we can have a relationship with Him--and Christian parents and teachers can help us learn more about Him too.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus said, "Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear." (NIV) (Mark 4:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Open your ears to God's truth
Bible Reading: Matthew 19:23-26; John 13:34; Romans 5:6-8
Bandit, Amelia's little piglet, lay in a box. Her faint, wheezing breath was the only clue that she was still alive. As Amelia hung a bulb over the box to give it heat, her cousin Ruby came in. She peered at the still form as Amelia explained what had happened.
"That's horrible!" exclaimed Ruby. She watched Amelia take an eyedropper and trickle warm milk down the piglet's throat. Ruby sighed. "It's hopeless," she said, shaking her head.
"No! She could get better," said Amelia. Every couple of hours she would go to Bandit's box to feed and stroke the tiny piglet, looking for any signs of improvement. Even her parents began to doubt that Bandit would recover, but Amelia refused to give up, even getting up in the middle of the night to take care of her. Dad told her she should prepare for the worst, but Amelia kept hoping and praying that Bandit would get well.
The next morning, Ruby came over to go to church with Amelia's family. "I want to show you something," said Amelia. She led the way to Bandit's box. "Look!"
Ruby stared. There stood Bandit, wiggling and squealing for Amelia to hurry with some more food. "I don't believe it!" exclaimed Ruby. "She looked so hopeless yesterday. I was sure she was a goner!"
Later that day, Ruby and Amelia took Bandit outside to get some fresh air. "You know Ryder, my foster brother?" Ruby said as she played with Bandit on the grass. "Well, I don't think I can stand him anymore! He's always getting in trouble, and he keeps lying and stealing our things. I don't think there's anything we can do for him. He's hopeless!"
"That's what you said about Bandit," said Amelia. "But it wasn't true. Bandit got better because I loved her and took care of her. God loves and cares for us much more than that! When we were all lost and hopeless, He sent Jesus to save us." Amelia looked at her cousin. "Why don't you try to help Ryder by praying for him and showing him you care? I'll pray for him too. That's what I did with Bandit, and Ryder is way more important than a pig. Don't give up on him--things are never hopeless with God."
–Linda A. Price
How About You?
Do you know people who seem hopeless? Don't give up on them. Keep praying and helping them in any way you can. Be sure to share the good news of Jesus with them too. He came to offer hope to all of us by dying for our sins and rising from the dead. He can change anyone's heart, just like He changed yours. Help others know that He loves them and will welcome them joyfully.
Today's Key Verse:
With God all things are possible. (NKJV) (Matthew 19:26)
Today's Key Thought:
There's hope for the hopeless
Bible Reading: Luke 15:11-24
Amelia was fascinated by the ten tiny piglets squirming around their mother in the pig pen behind the barn.
A little piglet with a black spot over her eye became Amelia's favorite. "She looks like a bandit with that black eye, so that's what I'll name her," said Amelia. "She's so cute! I love the way she trots off to explore things all by herself."
One morning a few days later, Dad came into the house with something cradled in his arms. "I need soft rags and a hair dryer," he said.
Amelia's heart sank when she saw the limp form of Bandit tucked against Dad's chest. "What happened?" she asked anxiously.
"This little piggy wandered off during the night and couldn't find her way back to the warmth of her mother and the other piglets. I found her out in the yard. She's very cold and weak right now."
Amelia wiped the mud off the tiny pig while Mom gently blew warm air around her with a hair dryer. "Why did she go off by herself?" asked Amelia. "Her mother was taking good care of her. Do you think she'll be okay, Dad?"
"I don't know," said Dad, putting an arm around Amelia's shoulders. "We'll do our best to help her."
For devotions that evening, Dad read the story of the prodigal son. "The young man in this story reminds me of your piggy," said Dad. "What can you learn from their experiences?"
"Um…don't wander away from home?" suggested Amelia. "Bandit and the man in the story both wandered away from their homes where they were safe."
Dad smiled. "That's right, and Christians sometimes wander away from the love and care God has provided for us. We ignore God and His people and instead chase after worldly things."
"So how do we keep from wandering?" asked Amelia.
"By remembering how much God loves us and trusting Him to take care of us. He sent Jesus to die for us so we could be part of His family, and He wants to fill our lives with joy and peace. And when we do go our own way, He will always forgive us and welcome us home."
–Linda A. Price
How About You?
Have you wandered away from God? Don't go off on your own thinking you can live life your way. God loves you and wants the very best for you--Jesus gave His life so you could experience the joy and peace of knowing Him. If you've gone your own way, ask Him to forgive you. He will welcome you home with open arms and take good care of you.
Today's Key Verse:
Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. (NIV) (Colossians 3:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't wander away from God
Bible Reading: John 3:16-17; Romans 6:23; 10:13
Nelson and his parents were spending a few days at the beach, and Nelson loved playing in the water. Today he was having a great time letting the waves carry him up and down as he swam.
But then the waves became bigger, and Nelson realized he was too far out and couldn't touch the bottom. "Help!" he cried out to his dad.
Dad quickly swam over to Nelson and helped him back to shore.
"Thanks, Dad," Nelson said, trying to catch his breath.
"Sometimes those waves can really pull you under," Dad replied.
Nelson coughed and nodded. "I sure am glad you were there to save me!"
"How was the water this afternoon?" Mom asked when Nelson and his dad returned from the beach.
Nelson smiled. "A little rough," he answered.
Dad explained what happened while Nelson ran to get changed. He put on his pajamas, looking forward to just having dinner and relaxing for the rest of the evening,
"Well, don't you look comfy," Mom said when Nelson walked into the kitchen. She handed him plates of fresh fruit and cold cut sandwiches to put on the table. Dad patted him on the shoulder, and they all sat down to eat.
After dinner, Nelson helped his parents clean up, and then they all went into the living room for family devotions.
"I've got a special verse for tonight. It goes right along with our beach incident this afternoon," Dad said.
Nelson listened as Dad read Romans 10:13. "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved." He looked at Nelson. "I saved you from the waves today, but Jesus gave His life to save us from death itself. The Bible says our sin--the wrong things we do--leads to death and eternal separation from God. But if we trust Jesus as our Savior, He will save us from sin and give us eternal life!"
Nelson had heard about Jesus dying to save him many times at church, but he had never really understood it until today. After being saved from the waves that afternoon, Nelson had a clearer understanding of what Jesus had done for him.
"I think I'm ready to trust Jesus as my Savior," Nelson told his parents.
–Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you trusted Jesus to save you? God loves you so much that He gave His Son as a sacrifice for your sins so that you could have eternal life with Him. Jesus died to take the punishment for the wrong things you've done, and He's the only one who can save you from sin and death. If you haven't trusted Him to be your Savior, you can do it today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. (NLT) (John 3:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus to save you
Bible Reading: Psalm 27:1-3; Isaiah 41:10
If I don't make any noise when I walk by that house, maybe the dog won't see me, Nolan thought. But the barking, growling dog across the street jumped against the fence around its yard, making a loud bang. Nolan took off. He was out of breath when he got home and slammed the door behind him.
"That big dog always jumps at me when I'm walking home," Nolan told Mom.
"Since you have to pass that house every day to and from school, maybe you should make friends with the dog," suggested Mom.
"Yeah right. I'll just say, 'Hi, dog. My name is Nolan. Wanna be friends?'"
That evening, Nolan learned a verse at Bible club--Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.
"Jesus died and rose again to save us from sin and death, and He promises to be with us in every scary situation," Nolan's teacher explained. "Whenever we feel afraid, we can trust God to help us and give us courage."
The next day, Nolan repeated the verse one more time before heading off to school. As he passed the dog's house, the dog came barking and running toward him. Trembling, Nolan prayed. You said You'd be with me and help me, God. He stopped. "All right, dog!" he said loudly. "You can bark all you want, but I'm done being scared of you! You got that?" The dog backed away. He and Nolan stared at each other. Then the dog whimpered and began to slowly wag its tail.
"You're making friends with my Snookums!" said a voice. "I've been hoping he'd find a friend."
Nolan turned toward the house and saw an elderly woman leaning on a cane. "You named this big dog Snookums?" he asked in surprise.
The woman nodded. "My husband used to play with him and take him for walks, but he died recently." She sighed sadly. "You can see I'm not able to do those things." She looked at Nolan. "Snookums seems to like you, though. Would you be interested in a dog-walking job?"
Nolan hesitantly agreed to ask his parents about it. As he continued on his way, he prayed, Thanks, God, for helping me. He grinned. It might be fun having Snookums for a friend.
–Donna Overmyer
How About You?
Are you afraid of something? Perhaps you get scared when you're in the dark, have to go to the doctor, or come face-to-face with a bully at school. Whenever you feel afraid, remember that God is always with you. He promises to give you the strength to face your fears. Talk to Him and ask for help--and don't be afraid to share your fears with an adult so they can help too.
Today's Key Verse:
Don't be afraid, for I am with you. Don't be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. (NLT) (Isaiah 41:10 )
Today's Key Thought:
Give your fears to God
Bible Reading: Romans 8:22-25
Within a few minutes of getting home from school, Mateo talked back to his mother, hit his brother, and gave the dog table food even though Mom had told him not to. He was promptly sent to his room with no electronics.
Mateo collapsed onto his bed and groaned. What's up with me today? he thought. Why am I acting like this? He sighed and lowered himself to the floor where a vast city was taking shape. He grabbed the box of loose connecting blocks and started adding a bridge between two of the skyscrapers. This city's gonna look so cool once I'm finished, he thought. It'll probably take up half the room! I can't wait to see what people say when I post a picture online.
Pretty soon Mom walked in. "Hmm," she said when she saw Mateo working on his city. "I forgot you had this in here. I guess next time you get in trouble I should send you to the storage room where there's nothing fun for you to do."
Mateo put down the blocks he was holding. "I'm sorry, Mom--I don't know why I did all that stuff." He leaned his head back against his bed. "I thought I'd be different by now."
"What do you mean?" asked Mom.
"Well, I thought becoming a Christian meant I wouldn't sin anymore, but I still do bad things!"
Mom sat down at the city's edge. "This is looking pretty good," she said. "Why don't I go get my phone so you can post it online?"
"No!" said Mateo. "I don't want to post it until it's totally finished."
Mom picked up a block person lying on the floor. "Well, you're not finished yet either--God is still working on you. The Holy Spirit is patiently teaching you to turn away from sin and live your life in a way that shows trust in God and love for others. It's a process that will take the rest of your life, but it's worth the wait." She stuck the person on top of the bridge Mateo had just built. "Jesus saved you from sin in an instant, but the new person He's making you to be won't be complete until He comes again and gives you a perfect body someday. Then you'll be totally finished--and you'll never sin again!"
–Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Do you get frustrated when you do things you know a Christian shouldn't do? Do you wonder why it seems so hard to live the way God wants you to? Being saved from sin only takes a moment--it happens the second you put your trust in Jesus. But becoming more like Him as the Holy Spirit works in your heart takes a lifetime. Be patient and trust God to complete the work He's started in you.
Today's Key Verse:
I am sure that the good work God began in you will continue until he completes it on the day when Jesus Christ comes again. (ERV) (Philippians 1:6)
Today's Key Thought:
God's still working on you
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:4-11
Elodie had just started taking piano lessons with her mom, and she couldn't wait to learn more. However, right after Mom explained how to find middle C, her brother Tanner excitedly barged into the house. "Mom, guess what! We picked out jobs at chess club today. Everyone wanted to be the president. We didn't want to argue, so we're all going to be the president! We're going to call it the Presidents' Club. Isn't that great?"
As he talked, Elodie continued to practice and sing out, "Middle C, middle C, middle C."
Tanner laughed. "She sure likes finding middle C."
Mom nodded and led him to the kitchen. As she handed him a bowl of carrots and dip, she said, "Tell me more about this Presidents' Club. Who's going to collect money at the club events? Or take notes at meetings?"
"I'm not really sure," said Tanner. "I guess we didn't think about that."
Suddenly, Elodie's voice loudly interrupted them. "Middle C, middle C, middle C."
This time, Tanner rolled his eyes. "Can't she play another note? This is getting annoying."
"You're right, Tanner," said Mom. "Many notes are needed to make a song. People are that way too. Just like how the notes in a song blend together to make music, God created each of us with different interests and abilities for a reason."
Mom glanced toward the other room when middle C rang out once again. "Think about your club, Tanner. God gave everyone in your group different abilities, and your club should put them all to good use so it can function the way it's supposed to. The church is like that too. As Christians work together and use our different gifts to help more people know Jesus, we're like a song that brings Him praise and tells the world of His love."
Tanner thought about it as he bit into a carrot. "You know, I do enjoy math. Maybe I could help out as club treasurer! I'd rather do that than talk in front of the whole group anyway."
"Middle C, middle C, middle C," Elodie continued to sing.
Tanner covered his ears, and Mom laughed. "That sounds like a great idea. Now, I'd better go teach your sister a few more notes!"
–Bethany Den Boer
How About You?
Did you know that God created you in a special way and gave you your own set of talents and passions? He created us all to be different--if we weren't, then just like a one-note song, the world would get pretty boring. What makes you different and special? Thank God for those things, and use them to help the body of Christ--His church--show people who He is and how much He loves them.
Today's Key Verse:
All of you together are Christ's body, and each of you is a part of it. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 12:27)
Today's Key Thought:
Use your unique gifts for God
Bible Reading: Psalm 63:1-5; 1 Peter 1:24-2:4
"The baby is crying again," said Brexley.
Mom walked over to the cradle and picked up the fussy little bundle. "The baby's name is Michael, and you need to be more patient with him. He's only three weeks old." Mom settled into the rocking chair. "I think he's hungry again." The fussing stopped as soon as Mom started to feed the baby.
Brexley sighed. "I thought having a baby brother would be more fun. I guess I should have known that a baby who can't do anything but eat, cry, and sleep is nothing but trouble!"
"He's more than just trouble," said Mom. "He's cute and loveable, and he's a growing human who needs us to love and care for him. In fact, you could learn a lot from Michael. He's a good little teacher."
"A teacher?" Brexley frowned. "How could he possibly be a teacher?"
"Get your Bible and find the book of First Peter--it's toward the end," said Mom. "Read the second verse of chapter two."
Brexley found the verse and read it out loud. "Like newborn infants, desire the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow up into your salvation."
Mom continued to rock and feed the baby. "What is Michael doing now?" she asked.
"Eating," replied Brexley. "But he's almost asleep again." She smiled. "I guess he's eating and snoozing at the same time."
"If I had just rocked Michael or given him his pacifier without feeding him, what would he have done?" asked Mom.
"Cried," Brexley answered. "He wouldn't have been happy until he got his milk."
"Right," said Mom. "And that's the way God wants us to desire His Word, the Bible. He wants us to be eager for the spiritual nourishment it gives us. God shows Himself to us in His Word, and His truth, love, and promises refresh our souls. Michael is satisfied and comforted by my milk and can rest after he eats. As we read the Bible and learn more about God's love for us and how He saved us, we can find comfort and rest in Him too."
Brexley glanced at her baby brother dozing in her mom's arms. "I guess Michael can teach me something after all," she said, smiling.
–Sarah Zaengle
How About You?
Are you as eager for the truth of God's Word as a baby is for milk? Do you look to God to satisfy your soul? Milk doesn't just help babies grow--it also brings them satisfaction and comfort. As we listen to what God says in the Bible and learn about His love and what Jesus did to save us, God comforts us and gives us rest. Next time you read your Bible, let God nourish you with the truth of who He is and what He's done for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Like newborn infants, desire the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow up into your salvation. (CSB) (1 Peter 2:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Learn from the Bible
Bible Reading: Psalm 51:1-2, 7-10; 103:8-12
"Give me my red sweater, you jerk!" shouted Brynn as she chased her twin sister down the stairs. "You're always taking my things!"
"This isn't yours, dummy. It's mine," replied Savannah. "Yours is in the wash!" She ran around the kitchen table, holding the sweater tightly.
Their brother Reese grinned at them. "Want to hear what you sound like?" He pushed a button on his phone, and a moment later the twins heard their own voices yelling at each other. "Isn't technology great?" said Reese. "Wait till Mom hears this."
"Oh, come on, Reese! Don't play that for Mom," said Brynn.
But it was too late. Their mom came to see what all the commotion was about, and Reese pressed play.
"Mom! Make Reese delete that," Savannah pleaded.
"You don't like to hear it, do you?" said Mom. "Well, neither do we."
"Tell you what," said Reese. "If you'll say nice things to each other for the next few minutes, I'll delete it. So, come on! Who will be the first to say something nice?"
The girls scowled, but they did as their brother told them. Soon they were all laughing as the twins tried to outdo each other in saying nice things, complimenting everything from their nail polish to their piano playing.
"Okay, okay," said Reese. "You kept your side of the bargain. I'll delete it."
"You know, girls," said Mom, "Reese deleted your mean, angry words from his phone, but don't forget that God already heard them. He hears every word we say--He even knows our thoughts."
"Yeah!" said Reese. "And you can't erase that, can you?"
"Actually, the Bible says that when God forgives us for the wrong things we've done, it's like our sins have been deleted," said Mom. "Jesus took the punishment for our sins so that they could be erased. Because of Jesus, we can be honest with God about the wrong things we've done. He already knows about them and has already forgiven us." Mom looked at the girls. "And we can tell those we've wronged that we're sorry too and trust God to help us treat others with love and kindness."
Both girls turned toward each other. "I'm sorry," they said.
A smile crept across Brynn's face. "Maybe Reese should record this instead."
"Way ahead of you!" Reese exclaimed, holding up his phone.
–Beverly Kenniston
How About You?
Would you like a wrong thing you've said or done to be erased? Do you want God to forgive your mistakes and never think of them again? Confess your sin to God and trust in the work of Jesus on the cross. Because Jesus died for your sins, God will always forgive and delete every wrong in your life. Trust Him to erase your sin and help you replace hurtful words and actions with kind ones.
Today's Key Verse:
Now repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. (NLT) (Acts 3:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Let Jesus erase your sin
Bible Reading: John 3:16-17; 1 John 4:19-21
"I have to do a project with Dayton Lander," Hazel told her dad as they biked around the block. "I'm not looking forward to it--everyone says he's weird." Dad was about to respond when Hazel pointed to a nearby house. "Look, a garage sale! Can we stop and see if they have any books? I need a new one." Dad agreed, and they got off their bikes.
"How about this one?" Dad held up a book with a worn green cover and letters so faded Hazel had to squint to see the title. "It was one of my favorites when I was a kid!"
Hazel made a face. "I think I'll go with this one." She held up a book with a bright, shiny cover. "It says on the back that it's 'unputdownable' and 'will leave you wanting more.' Sounds good to me! Plus, it's in better shape than yours."
"Suit yourself," said Dad. "I'll buy this one anyway, for old times' sake."
That evening, Hazel read her new book on the patio while Dad grilled hot dogs. "How's your book?" asked Dad.
Hazel put her book down and sighed. "I just can't seem to get into it."
"Well, the one I bought is in the kitchen if you want to give it a try." Hazel shrugged, then went to get the book.
A few days later, Hazel ran to find Dad. "Dad, I just finished that book you gave me, and it was so good! Do you have any more like it?"
Dad laughed. "I'll check. So, you liked that old book I gave you? Even though it wasn't all new and shiny with lots of quotes on the back saying how good it was?"
Hazel smiled. "All right, Dad. You win. I shouldn't have judged a book by its cover."
"Right. It's the story that counts." Dad scratched his chin thoughtfully. "You know, that makes me think of Dayton. You think you know his story by what other people say about him. But there's another story you're forgetting--God's story. Jesus loves Dayton and died for him, just like He did for you and me. He wants Dayton to be part of His story and spend eternity with Him. That's how God sees Dayton, and that's how He wants you to see him too--as someone loved by God who needs to see that love in how you treat him."
–Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Do you view and treat others based on how they look or what other people say about them? Or do you see them through God's eyes and love them the way He does? God loves us all so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us so we could have eternal life with Him. That's the kind of love He wants you to show others--no matter what their story is. Love others like Jesus and point them to His story.
Today's Key Verse:
God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him would not be lost but have eternal life. (ERV) (John 3:16)
Today's Key Thought:
See and love others as God does
Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:8-9; Nahum 1:7; Romans 8:28-32
Sienna grunted as her foot caught a root in the path. She squinted ahead of her, hoping to see where the path led, but all she could see were trees. She sighed and kicked at a stone. She knew Dad was hoping this mountain hike would take her mind off Kaia, but it wasn't working.
As Sienna made her way up a steep point in the path, her foot slipped and she fell, skinning her knee. Dad rushed over and pulled the first aid kit from his bag. As he bandaged her knee, Sienna started to cry.
"I want to go home!" she sobbed. "I know we're just doing this to forget about Kaia."
Dad helped her to her feet. "Trust me, Sienna, we're almost there. It'll be worth it, I promise."
Sienna wiped her eyes and nodded. She made her way up the hill, her knee stinging. As she crested the top, she saw a rocky ledge, and beyond that, open sky. They walked over to the ledge in silence, and the sight took Sienna's breath away. Below them, trees stretched out in every direction.
"Wow," said Sienna. "Look at how high we are!"
Dad nodded. "We've come a long way. We never would have gotten a view like this from the ground." He eased his pack off his shoulders. "I didn't bring you up here to forget about Kaia--I just wanted to give you a new perspective. Remember how you trusted me when I told you that the hard hike would be worth it?" Sienna nodded. "Well, God has a mountaintop view of our lives," said Dad.
"Meaning He sees things differently than us," Sienna said.
Dad nodded. "Trusting God doesn't mean we ignore the hard things in life. We don't know why your best friend got cancer, and we don't know what's going to happen because of it. But God does, and He promises to be with us in every situation. He loves us so much that Jesus died for us, and He gives us strength when it feels like we can't go on." He squeezed Sienna's shoulder. "I know you're worried about Kaia, but remember that while you can only see one small part of her life, God can see the whole thing. He loves her and can use even this tough situation to show her--and you--how good He is."
–Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Are you going through a difficult time in your life? When something bad happens, it's hard to see how any good could ever come from it. But while you can only see the part of your life you're living now, God sees the big picture. You can trust Him in any situation because Jesus died for us so that we could experience His goodness for all eternity. He will always be there during hard times and is always working, even if you can't see it now.
Today's Key Verse:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (NIV) (Romans 8:28)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God with hard situations
Bible Reading: James 5:19-20
Theo carefully hung a poster on his bedroom wall. He stepped back to look at it. "EXTINCTION IS FOREVER! SAVE YOUR PLANET NOW!" it said, the large letters looming out at him. Then he ran down the stairs, two steps at a time.
"Whoa, Theo! Slow down! Where are you going, and what do you have in that box?" asked Dad.
"These are the calendars we're selling for our school project," replied Theo. "Each month has a picture of an endangered animal. The money we make is going to help with research on ways people can take better care of the earth. Lots of animals and plants are already extinct--they don't exist anymore. We want to keep that from happening to more." He opened the box. "How many do you want?" he asked eagerly.
"I'll take two," said Dad. He smiled. "I'm proud of you, Theo. It's important to take good care of the earth God has given us." Then he sighed. "Though it's too bad we often forget what's in the greatest danger of all."
"What are you talking about?" asked Theo. "The rainforests?"
Dad shook his head. "I wasn't thinking of animals or the environment. I was thinking of people's souls. Anyone who dies rejecting Jesus will experience something much worse than extinction--they'll face eternal punishment in hell. It's good to be concerned about saving the earth, but we should be even more concerned about saving people."
"I never thought about that," said Theo. He frowned. "But I can't make people become Christians!"
"No," said Dad. "But think about your earth project, Theo--are you able to keep people from doing things that destroy the earth?"
"Well, no," said Theo. "But I can raise awareness about what's happening to the earth so they know about it. Then hopefully they'll decide to change."
"Right," said Dad. "And that's what we need to do for people who don't know Jesus. We can't make them become Christians, but we can tell them what Jesus did for them, pray for them, and show them God's love through our actions. Then hopefully they'll decide they want to trust in Jesus too."
–Linda E. Knight
How About You?
Are you concerned about our planet? Everyone needs to do their part to take care of God's creation. But what about the people you know who don't know Jesus--are you concerned about their souls? Humans are God's greatest creation, and Jesus became human Himself to take the punishment for our sins on the cross so we could be saved. Trust Him to help you share the good news of His love with others.
Today's Key Verse:
Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. (NKJV) (Mark 16:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Tell others about Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 147:3-5; John 11:17, 35-44; 2 Corinthians 1:3-5
Willy found a chair at the back of the room and sank down onto it. He crossed his arms over his chest and sighed.
He watched as people greeted one another, hugging and talking. His grandparents were up front, and everyone seemed to want to talk to them the most.
Uncle Rob sat down beside him. "How are you doing, Willy?"
Willy turned and looked at his uncle. His eyes were shiny. "I want to go home." He covered his mouth with a hand. "Is it bad to say that? I don't want to seem mean or immature, I just don't want to be here. I don't want another person to tell me Aunt Tricia is happier in heaven than she would be here."
Uncle Rob nodded slowly. "I think most nine-year-old boys would rather be at home than at a gathering like this," he said. "And I understand what you're saying. We know that your aunt is happy with Jesus, but we also miss having her here with us. We wish she could have stuck around a little longer."
Willy's eyes widened. His uncle knew what he was talking about and didn't think he was wrong for saying it. "I know heaven is a good place, but Aunt Tricia was happy here too."
Uncle Rob rubbed the top of Willy's head. "Even though we know your aunt is happy with Jesus in heaven, it's okay to be sad. Death is a sad thing, and Jesus understands our need to mourn those we love. He cried when his friend Lazarus died, even though He knew that He was about to raise him from the dead. One day He will also raise Aunt Tricia and all Christians who have died from the dead, and we'll all live with Him forever and never be sad again! Until then, He promises to comfort us as we mourn and be with us when things are still sad."
Uncle Rob got to his feet. "Let's go see if your parents are okay with us going outside for a bit. I think God wants to give us some comfort out in the fresh air."
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Have you lost someone who is now in heaven with Jesus? Are you still sad that they're gone even though you know they're happy with Him? When a Christian dies, they have the hope of heaven waiting for them, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't mourn them or be sad. Jesus understands your pain, and He will be with you through it. Let Him mourn with you and comfort you in your sadness.
Today's Key Verse:
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. (NIV) (Matthew 5:4)
Today's Key Thought:
God comforts us in our grief
Bible Reading: Isaiah 41:10-13
Kelly fought hard to hold in the tears all day at school. When her mom picked her up afterward, they started leaking down her face.
Mom touched her arm. "What's wrong, honey?"
"Everything," Kelly said.
"You'll adjust to your new school eventually," Mom said, leaning over to give her a hug. "It was just the first day."
The worst first day ever, Kelly thought. She turned toward the window as she relived the past several hours, the tears continuing to flow. First, she'd nearly missed her first class because she couldn't find the room. Then she'd spilled the contents of her backpack and had to pick up her things while everyone watched and laughed at her. Then there was lunch--
"You can talk to me." Mom's gentle voice broke her train of thoughts. "What happened?"
"Lunch was a mess," Kelly said. "I couldn't even find a table to sit at, so I just ended up eating in the corner by myself."
Mom frowned. "I'm sorry, Kelly."
Kelly sighed. "What if I never fit in?"
"You will." Mom squeezed her hand. "Did you pray and feel God with you today?"
Kelly shook her head slowly, realizing she hadn't.
"God is always with you," Mom said. "Even when it feels like you're all alone, Jesus is there with you, offering you His peace and comfort. He understands what it's like not to fit in, and He'll help you through the hard days at your new school. He helped me through some hard days at my new job."
"He did?" Kelly turned to her.
Mom nodded. "I was struggling to find my place there. It's always hard when you don't know anyone yet. Plus, I couldn't even figure out the coffee maker!"
"Really?" Kelly knew how much her mom loved coffee.
"I prayed about everything, and today a nice older woman helped me figure out the coffee. I think I made a friend too." Mom smiled. "God will be with you and help you, honey. Don't give up on your new school yet."
"I won't." Kelly took in a breath and wiped away her tears. "I'll pray about it and try again tomorrow."
–Bethany Acker
How About You?
Have you ever gone to a new school or struggled to make new friends? Did you ask God to be with you and help you through that difficult time? Jesus gave His life for you, and He cares about what you're going through and promises to be with you. Trust Him to help you through all the difficult things you face and give you His comfort and peace.
Today's Key Verse:
I am the Lord your God who takes hold of your right hand and says to you, Do not fear; I will help you. (NIV) (Isaiah 41:13)
Today's Key Thought:
God is with you
Bible Reading: Psalm 103:8-12; Ephesians 4:1-2; 1 Timothy 1:15-16
"The art competition is tomorrow, so make sure you finish your pots today," Miss Boone told the class. "Your final step is sealant, but don't forget--"
"What do you think of my pot, Miss Boone?" Alex raised his pot above his head.
"You've done a fantastic job, Alex, but you interrupted me while I was speaking. Now, as I was saying, you must wait for the paint to dry completely or the sealant will ruin your design. Please be patient."
"You'll probably win a ribbon, Alex," said Miguel, Alex's best friend.
Alex reached for the sealant. "I'll be the first one done too! Watch!"
"Alex, wait!" Miguel pointed to the paint. "It's still wet. Remember what Miss Boone said? Be patient or you'll ruin the design on your pot."
"I've waited long enough." Alex painted on sealant super-fast and put his project on the counter. "I win!" he shouted.
Before the competition, Alex stood outside the library where the artwork was displayed. "Is it time?" he asked when he saw Miss Boone coming to unlock the door. "Can I go in? I want to go in first!"
Once the doors were opened, Alex hurried in without noticing anyone else's artwork. "Where's mine?" he asked.
"Look up there, Alex." Miss Boone pointed to the table displaying pots with ribbons draped over them. Alex sprinted over.
"I don't see it! Where's my pot, Miss Boone?" Miss Boone pointed again, and Alex shook his head. "That's not mine." Then he looked more closely and gasped. "The sealant! It ruined my design!"
Miguel walked over and laughed when he saw Alex's pot. "You need to be more patient, Alex. That sealant made your pot look weird!"
Alex sighed. His parents and Sunday school teacher were always telling him to be patient too, because Jesus was patient and always thought of others instead of only thinking of Himself. I'm sorry, Lord, he prayed silently. Please help me slow down and think of others. You're always patient with me, and I know you can help me be patient too.
Miguel nudged him, "Hey, look--you got a ribbon for 'Most Unique!'"
Before the awards ceremony, Miss Boone asked each ribbon winner if they had a title for their artwork.
"I do, Miss Boone," said Alex. "I'm calling mine 'Patience.'"
–Kelly Carlson
How About You?
Do you patiently follow directions or do things your own way? Do you charge ahead without thinking of anyone else? It's not easy to be patient, especially when you're excited for something or know exactly what you want, but the Bible tells us to be patient. When you slow down and think things through, you'll be more loving and considerate toward the people around you--just like Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry. (NIV) (James 1:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Be patient
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:22-23; Colossians 1:9-12; 3:23-24
Ian frowned as he crumpled up another piece of paper and threw it in the recycling bin. "I'm supposed to write about a couple of jobs I might like to do when I grow up," he said. "I thought about being a professional baseball player--or maybe a photographer like Dad. But the chances of me playing pro baseball aren't very good, and I don't really want to be a photographer--no offense to Dad or anything."
"Well, I know Dad doesn't expect you to do what he does," Mom assured him. "God has given you talents of your own to use for Him."
"Maybe I should want to be a pastor or a missionary," said Ian. "God would probably want me to do something like that, wouldn't He?"
Motioning for Ian to follow, Mom got up and walked to the kitchen window. She pointed to a tree in the backyard. "What kind of fruit does that tree out there produce?" she asked.
Ian looked at his mother suspiciously. "Apples, of course. It's an apple tree, Mom."
Mom nodded. "Yes, and apple trees produce apples, not some other kind of fruit--and they don't struggle to do it. They automatically produce apples because that's what God made them to do. That applies to you too."
"Yeah? But I'm not an apple tree," said Ian with a grin.
Mom smiled. "No, you're not, so God doesn't expect you to produce apples--and He doesn't expect you to act like somebody you're not either. Whatever you end up doing for a career--working as a lawyer, farmer, missionary, businessman, factory worker, pastor, or whatever--you can share the love of God with others through what you do. He wants Christians serving Him in every field of work. The Holy Spirit is already doing His own work in your life so that you will produce spiritual fruit that points people to Jesus in everything you do, both now and when you grow up."
"Well, that makes me feel better," said Ian. "But I still don't know what to write for my paper."
"Think about things you like to do and things you do well," suggested Mom. "Those are pretty good clues to help you begin to understand what God may lead you to do for Him someday."
–Miriam K. Nowak
How About You?
What are you good at? What do you like to do? Your interests may change over time, but keep praying about these things, and keep working at the things you enjoy doing. Be willing to let God use you and the abilities He's given you in any way He sees fit. Trust Him to help you share His love and point people to Jesus in whatever you do, both now and in the future.
Today's Key Verse:
Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Today's Key Thought:
Use your talents for God
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, 11
"It's raining! It's pouring!" sang six-year-old Callie as she ran into Amber's room. "I love rain," she said. "It makes puddles to play in."
"Yeah, and it cancels picnics," Amber snapped,
"Are you going on a picnic?" asked Callie.
"I'm not going anywhere," grumbled Amber. "I told you. My picnic was canceled." She sighed. "And that's not all! I was supposed to go to an amusement park tomorrow with Morgan and her family, but Morgan's sick, so those plans got canceled too!"
"Well, if it storms, maybe the lights will go out, and we can use candles," said Callie. "That's always fun!"
"I hate storms!" Amber shook her head. "You're a strange kid. You love storms and rain and snow and cold weather--and hot weather too."
Mom laughed as she came into the room. "To Callie, there's no such thing as bad weather--only different kinds of weather."
"Do you know all the seasons, Amber?" asked Callie. She counted on her fingers. "There's spring and fall and winter and--"
"Summer," Amber cut in. "I know them too, Callie."
Callie threw her arms open wide. "And I love them all!"
"I'm glad you do," said Mom. "There are different seasons of the year, and there are different seasons in life too. There's childhood and adolescence. Then, before we know it, we're adults, and then maybe parents and even grandparents."
"Yeah, well, the teen years are the worst!" Amber exclaimed.
"Every season has its blessings as well as its problems, Amber," Mom said. "It's true that there are stormy times in teen years, but people of every age experience both storms and sunshine."
"Is it going to storm hard?" asked Callie. "I'll get the candles out." Amber gave a half-smile as Callie ran from the room.
"Even storms have a purpose," continued Mom. "For example, lightning puts nitrogen into the atmosphere to help plants grow. And life's storms can help us grow in our faith in Jesus. He loves us, died for us, and is always with us, and He'll help us through any kind of weather we face in life. That's something we can be thankful for every day, no matter what season of life we're in."
–Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Are you going through some stormy times in your life? Make a list of things that are happening to you. Have any of them helped you experience Jesus's love and care in a new way? Is there anything you think God might be trying to teach you in what you're going through right now? No matter what season you're in, thank Him for each day and remember that He's always with you, in good weather and bad.
Today's Key Verse:
This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. (NKJV) (Psalm 118:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God in every season of life
Bible Reading: Psalm 95:1-2; John 19:28-30; Ephesians 2:8-9
"I'm going to Mr. Harvey's shop to pick up the bookcase I made for Dad," Wesley told his little brother. "Want to come along? We'll take the wagon, and you can help pull it."
Zion clapped his hands. "Yay! You'll tell Dad the present is from me too, won't you? Because I'm helping?" Wesley smiled and agreed.
At Mr. Harvey's shop, Wesley showed Zion the bookcase. Then he walked to a back corner of the shop where Mr. Harvey was working. "Thanks for showing me how to make the bookcase for my dad," said Wesley. "Here's the money I owe for the supplies I used."
Mr. Harvey took the money, and they both turned toward the bookcase. Wesley gasped. Zion was standing next to it with a raised hammer. "What are you doing, Zion?" yelled Wesley.
"I'm helping make Dad's bookcase," Zion replied. He gave it a whack just before Wesley was able to grab the hammer from his hand. "You said I could help, Wesley!"
"I know, Zion," said Wesley. "But you can't help make it, because it's already totally finished!" He was relieved to see that Zion had made only a very small dent on the back of the bookcase and it wouldn't show. "You can help me pull it home, and you can help give it to Dad, okay?"
Mr. Harvey smiled. "Wesley, while you were working on the bookcase, we talked several times about how we can get to heaven. Do you remember what you told me?"
"Sure. Like I said, I try hard to be good," said Wesley. "I obey my parents. I go to church. I'm pretty sure I'll make it to heaven."
"But, Wesley," said Mr. Harvey, "just like Zion tried to help with your finished gift of a bookcase, you're trying to help God with His finished gift of salvation and eternal life. When Jesus died on the cross, He said, 'It is finished.' All of our sinful mistakes--past, present, and future--were paid for by Jesus's sacrifice for us. There's nothing you can do to help. You just need to trust that He's already done everything for you and accept His forgiveness. Do you understand what I'm saying?"
Wesley slowly ran his fingers over the top of the bookcase. "Yeah," he said. "I think I do."
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Do you think you need to do good things to get to heaven? That's not possible. There's nothing you can do to earn your salvation. Jesus has totally finished all the necessary work for you to be forgiven for your wrongs and receive eternal life. You must simply accept what He has done--there's no work left for you to do! Trust in Jesus today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. (NLT) (Ephesians 2:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus alone saves from sin
Bible Reading: Psalms 17:6-7; 18:1-2; Matthew 19:14
Twelve-year-old Scarlett was so excited about helping her mom in the twos' and threes' Sunday school class. Eagerly standing by the classroom door, Scarlett watched for the little ones to come.
Most of the children came in with smiles on their faces. However, not all of them had such an easy time. Missing her mom, little Maaza cried and cried long after her mother had gone into church, staying stiff as a log in Scarlett's arms. After a while, Scarlett gently put the little girl down and offered her a toy. Now only sniffling, Maaza angrily turned away and refused to play for most of Sunday school.
A little later, Myles, a toddler Scarlett often played with, arrived. He cried and cried, but instead of going stiff in Scarlett's arms, he wrapped his arms around her neck as she rocked him back and forth. After a few minutes, he was ready to play with his favorite toy truck, and soon after that he began to play with the other children.
"So, are you enjoying working in children's church?" Scarlett's mom asked her later that afternoon.
"Yes, I like it a lot," Scarlett said. "The kids are so cute! I love playing with them and telling them about Jesus during Bible time."
Mom smiled. "You know, as much as God uses us to teach children about Him, I'm amazed at how much they teach me about my relationship with God. Often I'm like how Maaza was today. When I'm sad, afraid, or confused, I turn away from God, much like how she hurried away from you. I forget that God shows His love for us by comforting us in our distress. Jesus saved us from our sins so that He could be with us every moment of every day. The Bible uses words like 'shelter' and 'stronghold' and 'refuge' to say that God cares for us and promises to be a safe place for us."
"That means we should be more like Myles, shouldn't we?" asked Scarlett.
Mom nodded. "He knew he could trust us as his teachers, and he clung to you and cried when he was scared about coming to Sunday school. Then he was able to enjoy all we had planned for him. If we trust God and come to Him when we're sad or afraid, we can experience the peace He promises."
–Aurora Scriver
How About You?
Do you ever have trouble trusting God when you feel sad or upset? Do you run away from Him when things get difficult or scary? Remember that God is faithful and promises to be with you through every difficulty you face. He wants to comfort you so you can experience His peace, rest, and joy. Go to Him when you feel sad or afraid, and He will be your safe place.
Today's Key Verse:
How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter in the shadow of your wings. (NLT) (Psalm 36:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Let God comfort you
Bible Reading: Matthew 20:30-34; James 5:13-18
"God bless everyone. Amen." Grace ended the brief prayer in her usual way. When she opened her eyes, she saw a slight frown on her mother's face. "What do you mean when you say 'God bless everyone'? Exactly who is everyone?" asked Mom.
"Well," said Grace, "I mean Grandma, Micah, my friends, the missionaries, the homeless--everyone."
"What do you want God to do for them?" asked Mom.
"Bless them," answered Grace. "You know--Grandma needs help with her eyes, and Micah's having trouble sleeping. Those kinds of things." She glanced at the clock. "I'd better hurry or I'll miss my bus!"
After school, Grace and Mom went shopping. When a clerk asked if they needed help, Mom nodded. "My daughter needs…" She paused. "Some clothes."
"Jeans?" asked the clerk. "Tops? Or a coat?"
Mom shrugged. "Just something to wear."
Grace stared at her mom. "I need jeans and a couple of tops too," Grace told the clerk. Soon she was busy trying things on in the fitting room.
"That was so embarrassing, Mom!" Grace said after they left the store. "Why didn't you tell the clerk what I needed? She must think we're weird!"
"It was just easier not to go into detail," Mom answered. Grace gave her mom a puzzled look, and Mom smiled at her. "When the clerk spoke to us, your quick 'God bless everyone' prayer came to my mind. I thought maybe my answer would show you that it's important to communicate clearly--both to people and to God."
"But God already knows what I'm thinking," Grace contended.
"That's true," Mom said. "But He wants you to talk to Him and express your thoughts and feelings. Jesus gave His life for us so we could be in a close, loving relationship with Him. He wants to hear about your worries and troubles so that He can give you peace and let you know He cares. Besides, when you make specific requests, it helps you pay attention to how God answers. Then you can thank Him for specific things."
Grace nodded her head thoughtfully. "I'm glad God cares about me and everyone else and listens to us when we pray. Maybe tonight I'll write some specific prayers down and keep track of how God responds!"
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
When you pray, are you specific about your needs and requests? Or do you hurry through and not bother with details? Even though God knows what you need before you ask, He cares about you and wants you to talk with Him. Take time to communicate with God and share your specific concerns with Him. When He answers your prayers, you'll be encouraged and have even more reasons to praise and thank Him!
Today's Key Verse:
Pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. (NLT) (Philippians 4:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Pray with specific requests
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:97-104; John 8:12; 1 John 1:5
Lucas and Grandpa were camping together in the mountains. One day, after they had hiked to the top of a lookout point, they sat down to enjoy a late afternoon snack. "How are your friends at school?" Grandpa asked. "Your Dad said you and Bryer had a fight."
"Yeah." Lucas sighed. "I'm not sure what to do about it."
Grandpa was about to respond when he noticed the sun getting low in the sky. "We need to start heading back before it gets dark. The path up here is rocky, and it will be much easier to get back to the campsite in the light."
Sure enough, the sun soon dipped behind the mountains. Then, as the moon began rising, Lucas pointed at it and exclaimed, "Look, Grandpa, it's a full moon tonight!"
As Lucas and Grandpa continued down the path, the moon suddenly disappeared behind a cloud. Almost immediately, Lucas tripped over a small rock.
Grandpa helped him up and made sure he was all right. "We'd better wait here for a bit until the moon is out again. This path is too hard to walk without any light." Grandpa thought for a moment. "You know, this path is a lot like life. Although our mountain path is full of rocks, the light from the moon keeps us from tripping. And life is also full of hard choices and temptations that may make us stumble or fall, but we have a light to guide us. Jesus is the light on our path."
"How do we know where Jesus is leading us?" asked Lucas.
"He guides us through His Word, the Bible," Grandpa replied. "The truth and wisdom of the Word of God light our way. In the New Testament, Jesus Himself is called the Word. His sacrifice for us is a demonstration of God's love, and through the Holy Spirit, He helps us live out His love, truth, and wisdom in our lives. Just as we need the moon to light our way back to camp, we need Jesus to guide us in the way He wants us to live."
Just then, the moon came out again, illuminating their campsite in its glow. Lucas turned to Grandpa. "When we get back to the tent, can I see what Jesus says about friendship in your Bible?"
Grandpa smiled and nodded. "Let's go!"
–Bethany Den Boer
How About You?
Have you ever felt unsure what to do about a hard situation, like a trying friendship? Did you know that Jesus is the Word that guides us? If you feel stuck or confused in a situation, look to Jesus's life and the rest of the Bible. As you learn more about God's love and the truth and wisdom of His Word, trust the Holy Spirit to help you walk the same path of hope, love, and peace as Jesus in your own life.
Today's Key Verse:
Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:105)
Today's Key Thought:
Walk in the light of God's Word
Bible Reading: Hebrews 11:1-6
Little Iris climbed out of the pool and eagerly walked along the edge to where her father was standing waist-deep in the water. "Catch me again, Daddy!" she called.
Iris leaped toward her father almost before he could get his arms up to catch her. "Wheeee!" he exclaimed as he pulled her around in the water and then took her to the shallow end where she could touch bottom. Soon Iris was back up the steps and heading toward her jumping spot again.
"Iris sure does trust Dad to catch her," said her older sister, Olivia. "And I can't believe how many times he keeps doing it. You'd think he'd get tired of it, but he actually seems to enjoy it!"
Mom smiled. "You know what I think? I think this is a good picture of our faith in God. Your dad is happy that Iris trusts him enough to jump into his arms again and again. And because he caught her the first few times, she learned to trust him more and more. She jumped almost before he was ready the last time."
Olivia was confused. "How is that like us and God?"
"Well, first of all, we need to trust Jesus to forgive our sins and save us," replied Mom. "Then, as God works in our hearts, we also learn to trust Him for many other things in life--sometimes for specific things, like providing for our needs or help finding friends at a new school."
Olivia nodded. When they had moved the year before, those were things she'd often prayed about.
"After we trust God for something and find that He's faithful in keeping His promises, it's easier to trust Him the next time we have a problem," continued Mom. She smiled as Iris squealed and leaped toward her father's arms once again. "The more we exercise our faith, the more it grows. When Iris jumps into the pool, she doesn't think, 'Maybe Daddy will catch me.' She knows he will. Dad is pleased that Iris trusts him, and when we trust God like that, knowing that He loves us and will always take care of us, He is pleased too."
–Lyndel F. Walker
How About You?
Do you trust God? Do you trust Him in times of trouble as well as when things are going great? Even when things are hard and you don't know how they'll work out, you can trust God to take care of you and do what's best in any situation. He loves you so much that Jesus died for your sins to save you. You can trust Him to take care of any problem you have.
Today's Key Verse:
Without faith it is impossible to please God. (NIV) (Hebrews 11:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God at all times
Bible Reading: Psalm 13; Matthew 27:45-46
"Leila, don't touch that," Grandma said softly.
Dylan watched as his grandma caught his baby sister's hand before she could reach the pan of cookies that had just come out of the oven. "Why?" Leila asked.
"Because you might get burned," Grandma said.
"Why?" Leila asked again.
Grandma smiled. "Because the pan is hot."
"Why?"
Dylan rolled his eyes. "This is what she does, Grandma. She goes on and on like that all day long."
"You did too, at her age." Grandma scooped Leila up and carried her to the living room.
Dylan noticed Grandma's phone on the counter and checked the screen. Still no update from Dad. He joined his grandma and sister in the living room, not wanting to be alone. "Grandma, why does God let Mom get sick over and over again?" he asked. "Dad just took her to the emergency room last week, and now they're there again."
Grandma squeezed his shoulder. "I know it's hard, Dylan. I'm worried too."
"But why is it happening, Grandma? And why can't they just figure out what's going on so we don't have to be scared?"
His grandma smiled. "You're starting to sound like Leila."
Dylan swallowed. "Sometimes I just don't know why God acts the way He does."
"It's okay to question God and wonder why He's working the way that He is," Grandma said. "In the Psalms, we read of others who did that. They knew that even though they might not get the exact answers they wanted, God would listen to their questions. Even Jesus, right before He died on the cross, asked God, 'Why?' He understands what it's like to go through hard things and not have all the answers."
"So God's not mad when I ask all of the why questions?"
"Not at all," Grandma said. "He's patient with you, like we try to be patient with your sister."
"I just want Mom to be healthy again," Dylan said. "More than wanting to know why, I want her to get better."
"I know," Grandma said. "We all want that. Remember that God cares about her more than anyone--He sent His own Son to die for her. Whatever happens, we can trust Him to listen and be with us."
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Do you ever wonder why God lets bad things happen? Have you tried asking Him why? Or are you worried He might get upset if you ask Him difficult questions? He loves you deeply, even when you struggle to believe He is good. He understands your feelings and welcomes your questions. Trust that He listens to you and cares for you.
Today's Key Verse:
I love the Lord because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath! (NLT) (Psalm 116:1-2)
Today's Key Thought:
God listens to our difficult questions
Bible Reading: Matthew 4:4; John 6:35; Hebrews 10:15-16
"Okay, kids. Let's go," called Dad after Kiara's swim meet had ended. "We only have a half hour before Keagan's soccer game."
"Looks like we'll have to grab fast food again," Mom said as she closed her car door. She sighed. "It's not a very healthy choice."
"We learned about food groups in school," said Kiara. "Our bodies need something from every group so we get the right balance of vitamins and nutrients and have the energy we need to grow and be healthy."
"Well, I'm fine with the food groups of burgers and fries," said Keagan. "And ice cream too!"
Mom laughed. "I know you like those things, but we need to either figure out a way to eat healthier despite our busy schedule or make the schedule less busy."
"We just may have to do that," said Dad. "You know, a schedule that's too busy can also interfere with our spiritual diet. We often get a healthy dose of time with God on Sundays but settle for spiritual fast food the rest of the week--like a quick prayer before meals and only a nibble of a verse here and there."
"Those small prayers and short verses are still good, but often we need more," Mom explained. "Jesus died and rose again so that we could have a relationship with Him--when life is easy and when life is busy. He wants to spend time with you because He loves you."
Keagan furrowed his eyebrows. "But how can I do that during my soccer game?"
"I know!" Kiara exclaimed, bouncing in the seat of the car. "The Holy Spirit!"
"Exactly!" Dad said. "God gave all who believe in Jesus His Spirit to be with us all the time--even on the soccer field or in the swimming pool. The Holy Spirit reminds us of God's truth in the Bible and nourishes our faith--even when we're busy."
"But we still need time to rest and reflect too," said Mom. "That's why going to church, praying, and reading the Bible are important."
"Sounds like a healthy choice!" said Kiara.
"Yeah," said Keagan as Dad parked at a fast food place. "But I'm glad we're having dinner here!"
Mom smiled. "This will do for tonight, but it might be time to make some changes so we can have healthier bodies and healthier souls!"
–Lore Wolif
How About You?
What kind of spiritual food do you get? Do you only get a good meal once a week at church? Is prayer just something you squeeze into your day? Just like you need healthy food for your body, your spiritual diet is also important. So don't neglect spending time with Jesus, reading and listening to His Word at church and on your own. And when life gets busy, remember that His Spirit is always with you, reminding you of His truth and love.
Today's Key Verse:
The Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and remind you of everything I have told you. (CSB) (John 14:26)
Today's Key Thought:
Have a healthy spiritual diet
Bible Reading: Matthew 11:28-30
"Will all this fit in my backpack?" Autumn wondered as she packed for an overnight camping trip with Uncle Joel and Aunt Carrie.
Autumn stuffed her backpack full of clothes, games, books, and flashlights. "I can't forget my camera," she said, slipping it inside. After cramming a few bags of snacks on top, she closed the zipper.
An hour later, Uncle Joel and Autumn were climbing the steep trail to the campsite. Aunt Carrie had dropped them off and was driving the rest of the way. She didn't like hiking.
Autumn loved hiking! She enjoyed listening to the birds and feeling the warm summer breeze drift around her. But as the trail got steeper, she paid less attention to sights and sounds and began to wonder why she had stuffed her backpack so full.
She walked slower and slower and soon fell behind Uncle Joel. The backpack got heavier with each step.
Uncle Joel stopped. "Is something wrong?" he asked. "You're slowing down."
Autumn sighed. "I'm getting really tired."
Uncle Joel took Autumn's backpack off her shoulders. "Is that better?"
Autumn drew a deep breath of relief. "Yes. It was getting so heavy!"
Uncle Joel nodded. "That reminds me of a Bible verse. In the book of Matthew, Jesus says He will carry our burdens for us. He took our greatest burden of all by dying for our sins, and He can take burdens off your heart just like I took the backpack off your shoulders." Uncle Joel swung Autumn's backpack back and forth. "What do you have in this thing, anyway?"
Autumn shrugged. "Oh...just some stuff."
Uncle Joel grinned. "You probably didn't need all of it for an overnight camping trip. You know, we often carry around a lot of stuff in our spiritual lives too--stuff we don't need to carry, like worry about the future or guilt for sins we've already asked forgiveness for."
"And it gets heavy, like my backpack?" Autumn asked.
"Right," Uncle Joel said. He lifted the backpack. "You were relieved when this weight was gone. How would you feel if the burdens of your heart were gone?"
Autumn looked up. "A lot lighter," she said with a smile.
–Katlyn Traxler
How About You?
Are you worried or upset about something? Do you have a heavy backpack full of burdens on your heart? Sometimes we carry around troubles that God never meant for us to carry. Jesus died for you to take away your burden of sin and give you rest, and He wants to take the other things that weigh you down too. Give your burdens to Jesus, and He will carry them for you. If something is really weighing you down, talk to a trusted adult about it too.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest." (NLT) (Matthew 11:28)
Today's Key Thought:
Let Jesus carry your burdens
Bible Reading: Galatians 1:10; Philippians 2:5-11; 1 Peter 4:10-11
"I hope I'm good enough to play in an all-star game someday," said Ryder as he left the ballpark with his dad and sister. "Maybe I'll even make it into the Baseball Hall of Fame!"
"I'd rather sing the national anthem before the game," said Ann. "Famous singers have a lot more fans than baseball players do."
All the way home, the children debated whether singers or athletes were more popular and famous. "Why do you think it's so important to be famous?" asked Dad.
"So everybody will like you and talk about how good you are," said Ryder.
"And then no one would say, 'Ann who?' They'd all know my name!" added Ann.
When they arrived home, they found Mom in the backyard blowing bubbles for two-year-old Harper. They all laughed as they watched Harper's puzzled expression whenever she got a bubble in her hands--only to have it burst and disappear.
"Those bubbles remind me of the fame you kids were talking about," said Dad. "Bubbles have a shimmering beauty that's very captivating as they bounce about. But then, when you try to catch one in your palm, it bursts. Popularity and fame are like that--they don't last forever. But because we trust in Jesus, we're part of God's kingdom, and His kingdom is eternal, meaning it lasts forever and ever."
"But what about baseball players in the Hall of Fame?" Ryder asked. "They're remembered forever."
"They may be remembered for a long time, but they can't enjoy their fame after they've died," said Dad. "Wanting to be famous isn't necessarily wrong, but Jesus is the only one who can give us eternal joy and satisfaction. He conquered death on the cross so that we could be part of His eternal kingdom, and one day, when He returns, the whole world will see His power and glory and bow before Him. Whether you become famous or not, He knows who you are, and His love for you is enough. Use the talents He's given you for His glory, not your own."
"You're right, Dad," Ryder said. "I may not ever be in the Baseball Hall of Fame, but I know I'll be with Jesus forever!"
Ann nodded. "And I'd rather sing for Jesus than on a stage in front of a thousand fans."
–Phyllis I. Klomparens
How About You?
Do you want to be famous someday? Do you want to be remembered for doing great things? The love and attention of other people can be exciting, but fame doesn't last forever. There's only one person whose glory will last for all eternity--Jesus. His kingdom is eternal, and His love for you will never end. Whether you ever become famous or not, you can use the gifts He's given you to point others to His glory and the joy of knowing Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures throughout all generations. (NKJV) (Psalm 145:13)
Today's Key Thought:
God's kingdom lasts forever
Bible Reading: Proverbs 21:23; James 3:4-10
Ruby and Sage leapt out of their beds. It was the first day of camp! Sage looked at the clock--they still had an entire hour before it was time to leave. She fidgeted and wriggled as though she were about to burst.
Ruby, on the other hand, sat patiently at the breakfast bar, one hand wrapped around a mug, the other holding a book. Sage was far too excited to read, and so she began to practice her dance routine instead.
"And right, two, three, four, and jump, two, three, four, and spin--"
Suddenly there was a crash, followed by the gushing of spilt tea. Sage's twirling arm had knocked Ruby's mug over.
"Sage! You've just spilt tea all down my jeans!" Ruby's face grew red with rage. "My book!" she shrieked. "It's soaking wet! You idiot!" She stormed out of the room.
Sage felt hurt. "Well, at least I'm not a boring, head-in-the-clouds bookworm!" she called after her.
Soon after, it was time to leave. There was a stony silence as they rode in the car.
"Maybe you girls should apologize and start over?" suggested Mum. "Or would you prefer to go off to camp under a cloud?"
Sage was the first to speak. "Ruby, I'm so sorry I got your book wet. And I'm sorry for calling you names."
Ruby sighed. "I'm sorry too, Sage. I got angry and was really mean."
By the time they arrived at camp, the two sisters were chatting and laughing again.
As Mum hugged them both goodbye, she pulled a tube of toothpaste out of her pocket. "You almost forgot this!" she said, handing it to Ruby. "You know, your grandpa once told me that unkind words are a bit like toothpaste. They come out very easily--especially when life gives you a squeeze!"
"You can say that again!" said Ruby.
"But the trouble is," Mum continued, "once those mean words are out, you can never put them back in again."
"Like toothpaste?" asked Sage.
"Exactly," said Mum. "Yet unlike toothpaste, which always comes out when it's squeezed, you can control the words that come out of your mouth. Since you know Jesus, He gives you the power to choose your words out of wisdom and love, even when you feel angry or hurt. So next time you girls disagree--don't forget the toothpaste!"
–Angela Jelf
How About You?
Have you ever said something you regretted? It's so easy to say unkind things when we feel angry or frustrated, isn't it? The Bible tells us that even though the tongue is a very small part of the body, it can do great damage. So remember that if you trust in Jesus, He's put His love in your heart and gives you the power to control what you say. Trust Him to help you keep your tongue in check and choose your words wisely.
Today's Key Verse:
Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. (NIV) (Psalm 141:3)
Today's Key Thought:
Choose your words wisely
Bible Reading: Psalms 16:9-11; 37:16-23; 1 Timothy 6:17-19
Blake gaped as the fanciest car he'd ever seen pulled in at Mr. Moore's repair shop. Out climbed Mr. Watson and his son Koby. "Hey, Koby," said Blake. "Wow! That's some car!"
"Yeah, but it's not running well," said Koby. Then while Mr. Moore and Koby's dad discussed the work needed on the car, Koby and Blake talked about school and sports.
"Koby, call your mother and ask her to pick us up," said Mr. Watson a little later. "The car will have to stay here a day or two to be fixed."
After Mrs. Watson picked up Koby and his dad, Blake turned to Mr. Moore. He had been helping at the shop all summer and loved learning about cars. "So, what's wrong with it?" Blake asked.
"I'm not sure yet," Mr. Moore said. "Mr. Watson said the engine is sluggish. It doesn't take off when he steps on the gas--it just pokes along without much spark." He opened the hood of the car. "I see that you and Mr. Watson's son know each other."
"Yeah, Koby's in my class at school, and he goes to church with a couple of my friends. They've been trying to get me to come to Bible club with them, but…" Blake shrugged. "I don't see the point of all that Jesus stuff. My life is good the way it is." He looked at the Watsons' car and sighed. "I doubt I'll ever be able to buy a car like that though."
Mr. Moore peered into the car. "You know, this car has a lot of fancy equipment, but Mr. Watson says it doesn't have much spark. Without spark, the rest of the car is pretty worthless. You can't drive it anywhere."
"Well, I'm sure Koby's dad can buy a new one if you can't fix it," said Blake.
"Maybe so," said Mr. Moore. "But the things we buy don't ever bring us true joy and satisfaction in life, do they? It sounds like Koby knows he needs Jesus for the true spark of joy in his life, and he wants you to have that spark too. I'll check the car over. I'm sure it'll have new life by the time I'm done with it. But we can't give ourselves the spark of new life we all need. Only God can do that."
–Daryl B. Knauer
How About You?
Do you have the spark of real joy in your life? True happiness doesn't come from having good looks or lots of money or from being smart and successful. Those things might make you feel good for a while, but lasting joy only comes from Jesus. He's the source of true happiness and everlasting life. Trust in Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said,] "I am the way, the truth, and the life." (NKJV) (John 14:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus gives new life and joy
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:57-58; 1 John 5:4-5
"Bulls eye!" said Finn as his arrow hit the target.
"Cool! Let me try," begged his little brother. Finn smiled and handed the bow to Logan. The large bow felt awkward in Logan's hands, but he took careful aim and let the arrow fly. It didn't even reach the target.
"Here," said Finn. "I'll help you."
Logan shook his head. "I want to do it by myself. I just need to get closer." He moved several steps closer to the target and again sighted down the arrow. He slowly pulled back on the string and let go. This time the arrow went far enough, but it was way off course. After a few more tries, Logan was ready to give up.
"Here, I'll help you," Finn offered again. He leaned down and together the boys held the bow and arrow, slowly pulled the string back, and then released it. Logan heard the solid thud as the arrow made contact with the target--only half an inch away from the bull's eye. He tried again, but he could only hit the mark with Finn's help.
"I missed the mark every time," he told his mother a little later. "I can't hit the target unless Finn is helping me."
"That's okay. You'll learn." Mom closed the Bible she had been reading. "You know what? I miss the mark in what I'm doing too. Like you, I need someone's help to keep me on target."
"You do?" asked Logan, looking surprised.
Mom nodded. "Yes--and in more serious areas than a target in the backyard. Even though I'm a Christian, I still miss the mark and do wrong things. I sin. So…" She pointed to the Bible.
"You mean you need Jesus's help?" asked Logan.
Mom nodded again. "Jesus is the only one who can hit the mark. He never sinned, yet He died for our sins so we could have His righteousness--His goodness. Because we trust in Him, God sees Jesus's righteousness when He looks at us. And even though we still do wrong things, God forgives us and helps us turn from sin and do what's right." Mom smiled at Logan. "After a while you won't need Finn's help anymore to hit the target with a bow and arrow, but you'll always need Jesus's help to have victory over sin."
–Pauline Youd
How About You?
Are you a Christian but still find it hard to do the right thing? Maybe you have trouble telling the truth or controlling your temper. Don't give up. Like all Christians, you need help to have victory over sin--and that help is available! When you do something wrong, admit it to God and trust Him to help you and remind you of the victory you have over sin through Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 15:57)
Today's Key Thought:
God gives victory over sin
Bible Reading: Psalm 37:25-31; Matthew 6:25-27
Paige whipped open the screen door and ran down the hallway. "Mom! Mom!" she called. "Is it true?"
"Whoa! Settle down there, honey." Dad met her and put an arm around her shoulders. "What's wrong?"
"Oh, Dad--Caleb Grant said his mom doesn't have a job anymore, and that all the plant workers have been laid off. You too? You're home from work already, so it must be true!" Paige felt like she was going to cry. "Dad, if you don't have your job any more, how will we pay Lucy's doctor bills?"
Just then Mom came down the stairs with Lucy. The baby's eyes lit up when she saw Paige, and she eagerly held out her arms.
Paige took Lucy in her arms and held her close. She remembered the time when Lucy was so sick and often had to go to the hospital for treatments. She had been such a quiet and dull baby then--not at all like the bright, happy baby she was now. Paige squeezed her little sister even tighter in her arms.
Dad saw the tight hug Paige gave Lucy. "Paige, whose arms are holding Lucy?"
"Um, my arms are holding her, Dad," Paige said, looking confused.
"Is she safe in your arms?" asked Dad.
Paige looked hurt. "Of course she is, Dad. You and Mom taught me to be very careful with Lucy. Don't you trust me with her?"
Dad smiled. "I do trust you. But think about this--a few minutes ago, you were worried because I was out of work. I know that's a scary thought. I'll admit that Mom and I feel a little shaken up about it too, but we've decided that we're safe in the arms that are holding us."
Paige stared blankly at her father for a minute. Then she smiled. "God's arms," she said quietly. "Our family is in God's arms."
"That's right," said Dad. "Jesus died for us so that we could be safe in His arms for all eternity. Even though we now find ourselves in a scary, uncertain situation, we can trust Him to take care of us."
Paige nodded, knowing it was true that God would help them, no matter what happened with Dad's job.
–Pamela G. Jones
How About You?
Are you worried about the future? Maybe someone close to you lost their job or is very sick, and you're not sure what's going to happen. Don't forget that God knew it was going to happen before you did, and He knows what to do about it. No matter how the situation looks to you, remember that He promises to be with you. Rest in the everlasting arms of our eternal God.
Today's Key Verse:
The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. (NKJV) (Deuteronomy 33:27)
Today's Key Thought:
Rest in God's arms
Bible Reading: John 3:16-17; Ephesians 3:14-21
Cole couldn't help but grin at the excited look on his younger brother's face. They were on vacation, and Henry was super excited about the roller coaster they were about to ride. Cole was more interested in their planned trip to the beach that evening.
"There are so many people in line!" Henry's eyes were wide. "Does God love everyone in line?"
Their uncle smiled and put a hand on Henry's shoulder. "Everyone."
"Does he love everyone at the whole park?"
"Everyone," their uncle said again.
When it came time for them to ride, Cole let Henry and his uncle go together in the row in front of the one he took for himself. He was older than his brother and didn't mind going alone. As he rode, he looked out at all the people at the park. That was a lot of people for God to love.
When they parked at the beach that evening, Cole was the first one out of his uncle's truck. He saw the wooden path headed toward the beach and ran down it.
It was Cole's first time seeing the ocean, and his eyes widened as he saw just how big it was. "You can't even see across it!"
His uncle laughed. "It's a little bigger than my pond, huh?"
"It's even bigger than the lake you take us to!" Henry ran out into the water.
"Don't go too far out!" Their uncle jogged after him.
Cole stared at the water, right away noticing the peaceful sound of the waves hitting the shore. The ocean was huge. Like nothing he had ever seen before.
He thought of all the times he had heard people talk about God's love and compare it to the ocean. The ocean seemed endless, and God's love seemed to be too. It was big enough for God to send His own Son into the world so people could be saved and have eternal life with Jesus.
Cole watched his brother splash water toward their uncle and remembered Henry's questions at the amusement park. Could anyone's love really be that massive?
"Come on, Cole!" Henry motioned him over.
Cole started for the water, and he realized that God was unlike any human. He truly had endless love--and He wanted to share it with everyone.
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Do you know how much God loves you? He loves you so much that Jesus died for your sins--the wrong things you do--and then rose from the dead so you could have eternal life with Him. That's a lot of love! And God shows His love to you in other ways too, like by comforting you when you're sad and answering your prayers. No one could ever love you as much as God does. Thank Him for the great love He has for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Because your love is better than life, my lips will glorify you. (NIV) (Psalm 63:3)
Today's Key Thought:
God's love is big!
Bible Reading: Luke 15:11-32
Ayden found his little brother Felix in the kitchen, standing in a mess of raw eggs.
"What happened?" asked Ayden.
Felix shrugged. "I wanted to see what would happen if I dropped a carton of eggs."
"You're in trouble."
Felix hung his head. "I know."
Mom would be down any minute. Ayden thought about helping Felix clean, but he didn't want Mom to think he was involved. "You'd better clean up before Mom sees."
Felix started cleaning. Ayden slipped into the other room. After a few minutes, Mom walked into the kitchen and gasped. Ayden couldn't help but listen.
"Felix, what's going on?" Mom asked.
"I dropped a carton of eggs. On purpose." At least Felix was honest. He sniffled. "I'm really sorry, Mom. I know I shouldn't have."
All was quiet. Then Mom said, "I forgive you."
Ayden peeked around the corner. Mom was on her hands and knees, helping Felix clean! This couldn't be happening. It wasn't fair.
Ayden stormed into the kitchen. "Why isn't Felix in trouble?" He avoided Felix's gaze. "I'm the one who always does what I'm supposed to. Why don't I ever get the attention?"
Mom gestured for Ayden to join them. He dragged his feet as he walked over. "I love both of you," Mom said. "Always. Whether you mess up or not." She kissed Ayden on the forehead, then Felix. "Felix was honest with me, and we can celebrate that. Just like we can celebrate that no one will dump eggs on my floor again. Right?"
Felix blushed. "Right."
A story from church came to Ayden's mind--the prodigal son. The younger son went off and made a mess of things, but when he came home, his father celebrated. The older son was angry his father hadn't celebrated him, since he'd been around all along. The older son had missed the point.
Ayden didn't want to miss the point. Mom loved him, and she loved Felix. And God also loved both of them. Jesus died for their wrongs so they could be God's children, and He would always love and forgive them, no matter what.
Ayden hugged Mom. "Can I help?"
Felix grinned. "Yes, please!"
Ayden grabbed a paper towel, and they got to work.
–Becca Wierwille
How About You?
Have you ever felt like Ayden--upset someone else has been forgiven when you've been doing the right thing all along? We don't have to worry about others receiving more love or forgiveness than us. We all mess up--we all sin by doing wrong things. But God loves us, no matter what. He offers His forgiveness to each of us, and He always celebrates when lost sinners are found.
Today's Key Verse:
"My son," the father said, "you are always with me, and everything I have is yours." (NIV) (Luke 15:31)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust that you are loved
Bible Reading: Psalm 19:7-11
"Hey, Mom, what are you doing?" asked Londyn as she and her mother stood in the linen aisle at the store.
Mom held a cloth napkin up toward the light. "These napkins have some flaws in them, so they cost less than regular ones. When I hold them up to the light, I can see what's wrong and whether or not it's a serious problem."
"How can you tell?" Londyn wanted to know.
"With the light shining through the material, I can see if there's a weak spot." Mom pointed to one of the flaws. "Most of these aren't bad, and I think I'll buy some."
After family devotions that evening, Londyn showed her dad the new napkins. "Light is very helpful," Dad said as Londyn held a napkin up to the light and pointed out a small flaw. He grinned. "Does this remind you of anything from our devotions tonight?"
"Actually, yeah!" said Londyn. "The verse you read said that God's Word is a lamp to our feet."
Dad nodded. "And a light to our path. When we examine our actions in the light of His Word, the flaws in our lives show up."
"Flaws?" asked Londyn. "Like what?"
"Well, remember when you were angry with Vera and wanted to get even with her?" asked Mom. "We looked up Bible verses that gave light on the subject, and you were able to see that trying to get even with her was wrong."
Londyn nodded. "The verses said to repay evil with good. At first I didn't want to do that, but I trusted God to help me, and I'm so glad I did. Vera is one of my best friends now."
"That's great," said Dad. "Sometimes there may be parts of our lives that we'd rather not hold up to the light of God's Word because we're afraid we'll have to change what we're doing. We forget that hanging on to our sinful ways is hurtful to both us and others. That's why the Holy Spirit speaks to us through the Bible and uses it to shine light on what we're doing wrong--so we can confess our sin and trust Him to help us change our behavior."
"Right," said Mom. "Then we'll be able to experience more joy and peace in our lives."
–Lyndel F. Walker
How About You?
Are you willing to let the light of God's Word show any flaws in your life? Pay careful attention when you read the Bible or hear it explained by teachers or parents. Ask God to shine its truth on your life and show you anything that needs to change. When you discover flaws in your life, confess them to Him and accept His forgiveness. Then trust Him to help you correct your wrongs and show His love through your actions.
Today's Key Verse:
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:105)
Today's Key Thought:
Walk in God's light
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:19-21
Cecilia molded a huge sand castle on the beach, trying to make it like the castles she saw in movies. She made soaring towers and dug a deep moat all around it. Then she noticed that the ocean's waves were coming closer and closer. "Help, Dad! The water's going to wash away my castle!"
Dad shook his head. "It's no use. The tide is coming in, and the waves will come a lot higher before they go back down."
Cecilia didn't want to believe that. She dug a wide trench all around her castle and built a sand barrier to protect it. But water soon crashed over the barrier and filled the trench. The waves splashed against the castle, pulling it apart with watery fingers. "It took me a long time to build that," said Cecilia, "and now it's gone!"
"Well, just be glad it's only sand," said her sister, Ember. "Sometimes people lose real houses in fires and storms, don't they, Dad?"
Dad nodded. "When I was young, the house I lived in with my parents was badly damaged in a storm, and I lost a lot of my personal possessions. It was very hard, but it also helped me learn an important truth."
"What truth?" asked Cecilia.
"That all earthly possessions are a little like that sand castle," Dad said. "They won't last. I realized there's something much more important than earthly things, and anyone who has it will never lose it. Do you know what it is I'm talking about?"
"I know," said Ember. "It's Jesus, isn't it?"
"Yep!" Dad said. "He saves us and gives us eternal life, and that gift will last forever. Instead of focusing so much on earthly treasures, we should store up treasure in heaven."
"How do we do that?" asked Ember.
"Well," said Dad, "the most important thing is to trust Jesus as our Savior--He's the only one who can save us and give us eternal life. Then, as He works in our hearts and teaches us to live as children of God, we'll start to care more about what He wants than what we or other people want. The things we do to serve Him--and the things we give up to do it--will build us treasure in heaven."
–Daryl B. Knauer
How About You?
Where are you storing your treasure--on earth or in heaven? It's easy to chase after all the things this world can offer you, but they don't last--you can't take them with you when you die. But Jesus offers us eternal life with Him, and that treasure lasts forever! Build true treasure by trusting in Him and sharing His love with others. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven. (CSB) (Matthew 6:20)
Today's Key Thought:
Build treasure that lasts
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:1-8; Galatians 5:13-18
"Hey, August," Dad said at dinner. "Remember that home run you hit in the baseball game today?"
"Of course!" August grinned. "I practically blasted that ball right out of the park!"
"It was quite a hit, all right," said Dad. "When you reached third base, it looked like you would have just enough time to beat the ball to home plate, and Coach Tim motioned for you to keep going. I wondered if you would slow down and look around to see where the ball was and then decide for yourself whether to go on or stay at third."
"I wanted to look, but Coach Tim is always telling us we have to trust him and just follow his directions, so I ran for it!"
"And it's a good thing you did. Taking time to look around would have cost you a run," said Dad. "Now--who would like to compare that to living the Christian life?"
August and Ryker looked at each other. "It's like you said before," August answered. "We need to listen to God."
Dad smiled. "Right, but this time it goes a little farther. Sometimes there's something we know God wants us to do, but we hesitate. We may feel the Holy Spirit urging us to do something at a particular moment, like show someone kindness or speak up about something that's wrong, but we don't trust Him enough to immediately obey Him. We want to wait and decide for ourselves whether or not to do it."
"But if August had done that in the game today, he wouldn't have made it home," Ryker pointed out.
"Right," said Dad. "And if we don't obey God right away, by the time we make the decision, we may have missed the Lord's timing. We need to obey God as soon as we know He wants us to do something. Even though it may feel hard or scary, we have the Holy Spirit in us to give us strength so that we can display His goodness and love in everything we do."
"So is God telling you to use my home run as another example in your Sunday school class tomorrow?" asked August.
Dad thought about it a moment. "You know, I think He is!" He smiled. "Maybe He'll use it to show someone else how important it is to trust and follow Jesus."
–Carolyn Gaston
How About You?
Are there times when you know the Lord wants you to do something but you hesitate to obey? Perhaps you know He wants you to speak to someone about Jesus, be kind to a new student, or help someone with a task. When you know He's prompting you to do something, don't hesitate. Obey Him immediately so you can point others to His goodness and love.
Today's Key Verse:
I am doing what the Father told Me to do so the world may know I love the Father. (NLV) (John 14:31)
Today's Key Thought:
Obey God immediately
Bible Reading: Proverbs 2:1-9; John 14:26
"How did you like our game today, Dad?" asked August when he and Ryker got in the car after their baseball game.
"It was great!" said Dad. "Do you mind if I use you guys for an example in my Sunday school class tomorrow? Our lesson is about our Christian walk with Jesus, and you gave me some good examples. Can you boys figure out what they are?"
Ryker and August looked at each other and shrugged. "Umm…because we were on the winning team?" August guessed.
"Good thought!" said Dad. "With Jesus, you're on the winning team too. He defeated sin and death when He died on the cross and rose again. But I had some other things in mind. One of them was something Ryker did."
Ryker grinned. "Something good, I hope?"
"Yes, something good. I noticed that while you were waiting for your turn at bat in the sixth inning, some boys in the bleachers were calling out to you just as your coach came up to say something."
"Yeah. Those guys are on my soccer team at school, and they wanted me to come over to the fence and talk to them," Ryker explained.
"Well, I'm glad you didn't let them distract you and miss what your coach wanted to tell you," said Dad. "It's important to listen to him."
"Right," said Ryker. "Coach Tim always tells us that too. But why did that remind you of Christians? I don't get it."
"That's the way we need to listen to God," Dad explained. "He talks to us through His Word, the Bible, and the Holy Spirit helps us understand what it says and how we should apply it to our lives. Sometimes we don't pay attention to Him because we're so busy doing our own thing. Other times we might be distracted by what other people are saying or wanting us to do."
"So if we're so easily distracted, how can we be sure to listen to Him?" asked August.
"I think I know!" said Ryker. "By taking time to read the Bible and pray?"
Dad nodded. "That's one way to listen to God's voice. He also speaks to us through His church--His body of believers. As we worship and learn about God together and share our struggles with one another, the Holy Spirit speaks to us and guides us in His truth and love."
–Carolyn Gaston
How About You?
Do you listen to the Lord? He speaks to you through His Word and teaches you its truth through other Christians such as parents, pastors, and teachers. Be alert to what God is saying. When it's different from what your friends or other people tell you, be ready to say no to them and yes to God. Listen to Him and trust Him to guide you in your walk with Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
We must obey God rather than people. (CSB) (Acts 5:29)
Today's Key Thought:
Listen to God
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:1-18; Romans 8:14-17
Sophia ran her fingers through the sand and watched in anticipation. Her family had been on vacation in Cabo, Mexico, for several days, and now the event she had been waiting for was here: the baby turtle release. Her younger brother Charlie inched closer to the rope they were supposed to sit behind. "Look, Sophie! He's dumping them out of the bucket!"
Dozens of tiny turtles, smaller than Charlie's hands, were gently deposited from the bucket onto the sand. Sophia squealed excitedly as she watched them move their tiny flippers to propel themselves across the sand toward the ocean waves. Occasionally, a giant wave would engulf the babies, sweeping some of them to their ocean home and dragging others further up on the shore.
Groaning in frustration, Sophia nudged her mom. "Look at this poor little one! Every time it gets closer to the water, a wave comes up and ruins its progress! How come the man releasing them won't help?"
Mom smiled. "It's all part of the process God created for the turtles--it's called imprinting. When the babies are making their way to the ocean, their bodies will remember the air, sand, and other things about this very beach. Years later when it's time for the grown-up female turtles to lay their eggs, they will journey hundreds, sometimes thousands of miles back here to bury their eggs."
"Wow! Imprinting is so cool!" Sophia exclaimed.
Dad snapped a picture. "It reminds me of Psalm 139, where David wrote about God knowing everything about him. God knows when we're sleeping and when we're awake. He knows when we're at home and when we're in Cabo. There's nowhere we can go that He doesn't see us and care for us."
Mom nodded. "When we trust in Jesus, He gives us the Holy Spirit to remind us that we are His. Our hearts are imprinted to Him, and His Spirit inside us speaks to us, telling us that we belong to Him."
Charlie piped up. "No matter where these turtles go, they will remember that this beach is their home."
Sophia grinned at her brother. "And no matter where we go, even all the way to Cabo, Jesus is our home."
–Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Did you know that you were wonderfully formed and created by God and He knows everything about you? Every single day of your life is known by God before you live it out, and His thoughts about you are more than all the grains of sand on the seashore. When you are a child of God, the Holy Spirit speaks to your heart and reminds you that you belong to Him. No matter where you go, you can be confident that God sees you, knows you, and will always be with you.
Today's Key Verse:
The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children. (NIV) (Romans 8:16)
Today's Key Thought:
We are imprinted with God's Spirit
Bible Reading: Psalm 103:8-14
Nevaeh was almost finished helping Mrs. Burns with her housework. "I need to get to the bank before it closes," Mrs. Burns told her. "Do you think you could finish and lock up when you leave?"
"Sure," said Nevaeh. "No problem." So Mrs. Burns said goodbye and left.
Nevaeh hummed as she dusted, but suddenly--CRASH! She stared in dismay at the pieces of blue glass on the floor. She had accidentally knocked a vase off a table. Oh no! thought Nevaeh as her eyes filled with tears. What will Mrs. Burns think when she gets back? She sighed as she picked up the pieces of broken glass. Before leaving, she wrote a note, telling Mrs. Burns about the broken vase and saying she would pay for a new one.
"You did the right thing," Mom said when she heard what had happened.
That evening, Mrs. Burns called. "Thanks for leaving the note," she said, "but don't worry about paying for the vase. I'll never miss it!" Nevaeh felt much better, but she still wasn't looking forward to seeing Mrs. Burns at church on Sunday.
Sunday arrived, and Nevaeh nervously approached Mrs. Burns. "You're sure I don't owe you anything?" asked Nevaeh. "For the vase I broke?"
"The vase? Oh, right--the vase." Mrs. Burns shook her head and smiled. "I had forgotten about it. You should forget it too." She patted Nevaeh's arm. "Can you come and help me on Friday? I'm having guests next weekend and could use some help."
Back home, Nevaeh told Mom what Mrs. Burns had said. "It took her a minute to realize what I was talking about," said Nevaeh. "I think she really had forgotten all about it. And she wants me to work for her again on Friday!"
Mom smiled. "The vase may have been valuable--who knows? But Mrs. Burns forgave you for breaking it, and perhaps she made a decision not to remember. So she forgot about it. That's a good example of the way God forgives us for our sin. Jesus died on the cross to pay the price for the wrong things we've done, and when we confess our sin to Him, He forgives it and will never bring it up again! We can accept His forgiveness and go on serving Him."
–Karen R. Locklear
How About You?
Do you continue to feel bad about something you did wrong--even after you've confessed it to God and asked Him to forgive you? The Bible says He'll remove your sin and not think of it again. Instead of going over and over what you did wrong, you can have peace knowing God has forgiven you. Accept His forgiveness and thank Him for it. He truly is a wonderful God!
Today's Key Verse:
Their sins and their lawless deeds I will remember no more. (NKJV) (Hebrews 8:12)
Today's Key Thought:
God forgives sin
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 4:10-11
Mario flopped down on his bed. Why had Mom enrolled him in a basketball league? He knew nothing about sports. Mom said it was for exercise and to learn teamwork and make friends. Mario feared that when the other boys found out he had no experience playing basketball, they wouldn't want him on the team.
He gazed up at his bedroom ceiling covered with stick-on constellations. He'd rather be in a club that studied the planets, stars, moon, and sun--things he loved. He heaved a long and loud sigh.
"What's that all about?" Grandpa stood in his doorway.
"Nothing." Grandpa wouldn't understand. He'd played college basketball.
"Would looking at the real constellations help? It's a clear night," Grandpa said.
Mario doubted looking at the stars would make him feel better, but he couldn't say no. When he and his mom moved in with Grandpa after his parents divorced, Grandpa positioned a telescope in the walk-in attic window for him.
Once behind the telescope lens, to Mario's surprise, his mood brightened. "There's Orion."
Grandpa bent down and squinted into the lens. "Awesome. I'm glad you taught me to appreciate the constellations." He moved the telescope. "The Milky Way is bright tonight."
Mario smiled. He had an idea. "Grandpa, would you help me appreciate basketball?"
Confused, Grandpa scrunched his face.
"Mom enrolled me in a basketball league to learn teamwork and make friends. I thought maybe if you practiced with me, I'd fit in better."
"Sure, I'll practice with you." Grandpa tussled Mario's hair then peered through the telescope. "Isn't it nice how God made both the moon and the stars unique and beautiful? They both give off light, but in a different way. Just like people." Grandpa looked at Mario. "God made us all different. We are each one of a kind with interests and talents specific to us. When you feel out of place, remember that God created you and loves you, Mario. He sent Jesus to die for you so you could be His child, and He gave you the gifts you have so you could share His love and goodness with others."
Mario thought a minute. "Maybe while I'm learning basketball, I can get others interested in the amazing constellations He created."
–Rose Ross Zediker
How About You?
Are your interests different from those of everyone you know? Do you worry about fitting in at school, church, or even in your family? It's normal to sometimes feel this way. When you do, remember God created you special and unique. He knew His world needed you and your talents! He loves you and gave you the gifts and interests you have so you could share His love with others.
Today's Key Verse:
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. (NIV) (Psalm 139:14)
Today's Key Thought:
You are God's unique creation
Bible Reading: Psalm 23:1-2; John 10:7-15
Nikita was visiting her cousins in England, and today her cousin Alexia was taking her out to see the sheep.
"You'll love the lambs, but their mums can be very protective, so you'll have to watch out," Alexia said as they walked along. "We're almost there--you can see Dad's hat, and there's Lawrence."
Uncle Matthias and Alexia's older brother came up to greet the girls. "Have you come to see the lambs, then?" Uncle Matthias asked, smiling.
"Yes!" Nikita beamed.
Lawrence pointed at the lambs frolicking and leaping along the edges of the stone walls. "Well, they're all over there, but I can catch one for you if you'd like to pet one."
"Yes, please!" Nikita bounced on her toes while she waited. As Lawrence held the lamb, Nikita stroked it and asked, "Why do you have to be out here to watch them? Can't Nessie and Wilder take care of them?" She nodded at the border collies roaming the pasture.
"Wilder and Nessie are smart dogs, but sheep sometimes get into bigger trouble than the dogs can handle." Uncle Matthias went to an upside-down ewe who was feebly waving her legs in the air and bleating. "She's a bit heavy for even Wilder here to roll upright," he continued as Wilder tugged at his coat, "so I have to go pop her onto her feet again." He righted the sheep.
"They aren't very bright, are they?" Nikita looked at the lamb. "Even if they do have cute babies."
"No, they aren't exactly the cleverest creatures, so they need a wise shepherd to tend them. But did you know that the Bible compares us to sheep, and God is the shepherd?" Uncle Matthias leaned on his staff. "Jesus says He is the Good Shepherd who gives His life for His sheep. These sheep can't save themselves from predators, just like we can't save ourselves from sin, evil, and death. But the Good Shepherd, who knows just how to take care of us, can save us, and we can trust and follow Him. He will always provide for us."
"You must be a very wise shepherd, but think how wise God is to take care of us!" Nikita said as she hugged the lamb.
–Ellie Shirk
How About You?
Have you ever watched a shepherd at work? It's not very likely you have, but you probably do know that sheep are pretty helpless and need a good shepherd. Though it's not very flattering, the Bible compares us to sheep, and Jesus says He is the Good Shepherd. He gave His life by dying on the cross to save us, and He knows the best way to take care of us. Trust Him to care for you.
Today's Key Verse:
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd gives His life for the sheep. (NKJV) (John 10:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is the Good Shepherd
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:6
"There must be a thousand fireflies out tonight!" Juan exclaimed.
Dad had turned off the yard light. The blinking green and orange light from the insects became easier to see. Juan unscrewed the lid from a clean plastic peanut butter container that his dad had poked with a screwdriver to make air holes.
He ran to the center of the yard and stood still. Twinkling fireflies fluttered around him. He scooped the container through the air and covered the open end with the lid. Lifting it eye level, he watched for a minute then saw a small blink of green inside the container. Juan smiled and repeated the process, sometimes chasing after the flying bugs.
"It's time to come in," Dad called from the door.
Juan hurried over to him and held out the container. "I caught four green and three orange." The bugs' lights flickered through the clear plastic. "There is no better light than fireflies," Juan declared.
Dad switched on the yard light then opened the door and sat down on the cement step. Juan sat beside him carefully holding his container. "Fireflies are an amazing wonder of nature, but there is a better light than fireflies. Do you know what that is?" Dad asked.
Juan thought for a moment. "Jesus?"
"Right!" Dad said. "Sunlight is nice. So is electricity." Dad pointed up at the outside light fixture. "But Jesus is the true light of the world. Do you know why?"
"Because He saved us from our sins!" Juan said proudly.
"Exactly." Dad patted Juan on the back. "Because He saved us by dying for our sins and rising from the dead, we will live in His light now and forever. And we can shine His light to others by showing them His love and telling them about Him." Dad stood. "Let's go inside."
Juan unscrewed the container lid. He gently shook the plastic until the fireflies flew out and cut a blinking path in the darkness. Juan joined his dad by the door. "I'm glad God made fireflies. They are the second-best light in the world. I'm happier God sent Jesus to be the best light in the world."
–Rose Ross Zediker
How About You?
Are you a light in the darkness? Do you complain or give thanks? Are you mean or kind? Do you argue or make peace? Sin brings darkness to the world, but if you know Jesus, He has freed you from sin and given you His light. When you show others His love through qualities like thankfulness, kindness, and peace, others will see His light shine through you in your words and actions. You can bring light to the world and point others to Jesus!
Today's Key Verse:
While I [Jesus] am in the world, I am the light of the world. (NIV) (John 9:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Shine the light of Jesus
Bible Reading: Hebrews 13:5-8
When Jake's parents got divorced, Mason saw his friend cry for the first time. Jake was frustrated and confused and didn't know how he was going to make it through things, and Mason didn't know how to help him. The more time he spent with Jake, the more worried Mason got about his own parents and what might happen to them.
"Are you and Dad going to get divorced?" Mason asked his mom one evening as she was making supper.
Mom's brows lowered. "No, honey."
"But how do you know that?" Mason asked. "What if you get in a big fight like Jake's parents?"
Mom stopped chopping vegetables and put an arm around him. "Life feels uncertain at times, doesn't it? Especially when you see someone you care about going through hard things."
She walked him to the table and sat down beside him. "Your dad and I are not getting divorced," she said firmly. "I know it's hard to see Jake go through his parents' divorce, but you can be there for him. He has a great friend in you, and he has an even better friend in Jesus. His parents are still going to be there for him too. Even if they're not both around all the time, they still love him."
Mason nodded. "That's what I tried to tell him. I'm trying to help him, but I just got scared thinking about you and Dad."
"I'm sorry." Mom hugged him. "Life can be really confusing and scary sometimes. But one thing that remains the same through it all is God. He never changes, even when things change in your family or around you. Jesus promises never to leave those who trust in Him. Even when everything seems to be falling apart, He is with us, giving us strength, peace, and comfort. He is the same today as He was yesterday, and He'll be the same when you wake tomorrow too."
"I'll tell that to Jake. I think it might make him feel better too." Mason got up with a new feeling of peace inside. It was great to know that no matter what else changed in life, God never would. Even if he faced sad or scary things, Jesus would be with him. And Jesus would be with Jake too.
–Bethany Acker
How About You?
Have you had to face a big change or difficult event in your life? Or perhaps a friend or family member is going through something tough and it's making you feel afraid. When scary or difficult things take place in life, remember that God is always the same. No matter what happens, His love for you won't change, and He won't ever leave you. Trust Him to be with you, and remind other Christians that He's with them too.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (NIV) (Hebrews 13:8)
Today's Key Thought:
God doesn't change
Bible Reading: John 4:34-36
"We had a missionary speaker visit our class today," Charlotte told her mother after church one Sunday. "I think missionaries have such exciting lives--traveling far away to tell people about Jesus who have never heard about Him before. That's so cool! Maybe I'll be a missionary someday."
Later that afternoon, Mom got a text from the children's director at church. "Charlotte," Mom said, "Mrs. Fisher is wondering if you could help with vacation Bible school at church this week."
Charlotte frowned. "Do I have to? I don't think I'd be much help--I wouldn't know what to say to those kids."
Mom was quiet for a moment before she responded. "Charlotte, do you remember what the optometrist said when you had your eye examination a week ago?"
"Sure," said Charlotte, wondering why Mom was asking about that. "He said I have 20/20 vision, which means I have perfect eyesight. At twenty feet I can see exactly what my eyes are supposed to see from that distance."
"Right," said Mom. "I'm glad you have 20/20 vision in your eyes, but when it comes to your missionary vision, it seems you're a little farsighted. A person whose eyes are farsighted can see things in the distance, but they can't see objects up close very well." Mom pulled out a chair from the table and sat down. "You're excited about the idea of someday going far away to tell people about Jesus, but you don't seem very interested in reaching out to people in your own neighborhood right now. But that's not how God sees things. He sees and loves people everywhere in the world, including the people right here. Through the Holy Spirit, He gives us the ability to share His love with those who need to hear about Jesus right now. He may lead you to another country to be a missionary someday, but today He has you right where He wants you. With His help, you can start sharing the good news of Jesus with people here and now."
Charlotte was startled. "I guess you're right." She thought it over, then nodded. "I'll help Mrs. Fisher with vacation Bible school."
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Do you often think about what God may lead you to do in the future? Are you eager to help others and share God's love with them in an exciting way someday? That's great, but you don't have to wait to share God's love and point people to Jesus--you can do that where you are right now! Ask God to open your spiritual eyes to see those who need the love of Jesus here and now. Then trust Him to use you right where you are.
Today's Key Verse:
Lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! (NKJV) (John 4:35)
Today's Key Thought:
Share God's love here and now
Bible Reading: Psalm 27:1; Matthew 28:18-20; 2 Corinthians 12:9
When Millie got home from her first day of vacation Bible school, she found Dad watering the garden out back.
"Hi," Dad said. "How was VBS?" He put down the hose and poured Millie a glass of lemonade on the patio.
"A missionary couple spoke to us about their work in another country," said Millie. "They told us that church services are held in secret in people's homes. Christians have to be careful how and where they tell people about Jesus because they could get in trouble for teaching God's Word in public."
Millie stopped to catch her breath and sip the icy lemonade. "They also showed us pictures of where they live and people they know. And they said they're eager to go back. They love what they do."
"You sound pretty excited about it," said Dad.
Millie hesitated. "It was interesting to hear what it's like to work in a foreign country and not be afraid to tell others about Jesus. But what if God calls me to be a missionary? It sounds like hard work, and sometimes it's even dangerous. I don't know if I could ever do it."
Dad was quiet for a moment, then he said, "Run inside and get your softball and mitt."
Millie was puzzled but did as Dad asked. Dad took the mitt and propped it against the side of the house. Then he tossed the ball into the mitt. When the ball rolled out onto the patio, Dad sighed and shook his head. "This mitt is no good."
Millie laughed. "The mitt can't catch a ball by itself, Dad! My hand has to be inside it."
Dad grinned and nodded. "You can't be a missionary by yourself either--you need the Holy Spirit to help you. Just like you give the mitt power and direction when your hand is inside it, He's the one who makes you able to share the love of Jesus with others. Jesus has given all Christians the task of telling others about Him, not just those He calls to be missionaries in other countries, and it can be scary no matter where you are. But whether He leads you to be a missionary far away or just here at home, you can trust Him to give you the power you need to share Jesus wherever you are."
–Ruth Andrews
How About You?
What happens if you don't put batteries in a remote or turn on a lamp without plugging in the cord? Without a power source, those things won't work. God is your power source for doing what He calls you to do--He won't ask you to do something and then leave you on your own. He calls all Christians to tell others about Jesus, and you can count on His power and strength to help you do that no matter where you are.
Today's Key Verse:
You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere. (NLT) (Acts 1:8)
Today's Key Thought:
God gives you power to do His will
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16; Philippians 2:14-15
"Mom's calling," Selah said as she and her sister played with neighbor kids in the common area of their apartment complex.
"It must be time for dinner already," said Alice. The girls told their friends goodbye and hurried to their apartment.
"Guess what!" said Mom as they talked about their day. "I got a job offer."
Dad grinned. "Let me guess--someone asked you to babysit their kids."
Mom laughed. "You're right. Melissa, in apartment three, asked if I'd like to watch Anya and Jaxton when she goes back to work on Mondays and Fridays."
Selah looked surprised. "Dad, how did you know that was what someone wanted Mom to do?"
"Well, it's not the first time it's happened," said Dad. "The Petersons wanted Mom to take care of their son one weekend when they had to be away, remember? And a few weeks ago, the librarian at your school asked Mom to babysit for a couple of days."
Alice looked puzzled. "That's so weird. It's not like Mom put flyers around town saying she'd babysit. Why do people keep asking her?"
"Well," said Mom, "they know I'm a stay-at-home mom, so maybe they figure I'd like to earn a little money. And I think another reason they ask me is because of you guys."
"Us?" said Selah. "I don't get it."
Mom smiled. "I think they look at you and say to themselves, 'Those are nice kids! I could trust my children to be in that home. I'll see if their mother would like to work for me.'"
Alice grinned. "We're just such angels," she joked.
Dad laughed. "Not quite. I've seen your halos slip off and hit the floor quite a few times. You're not angels, but you are lights. The Bible says Christians are supposed to be lights in a dark world, and I've seen both of you shine the light of Jesus to others in how you treat them. Because we know Jesus, we are God's children and have His love in our hearts. When we let His love shine through our words and actions, people will notice that we're different and hopefully be pointed to Him."
"So thanks, girls, for being lights to our neighbors," said Mom. "Let's pray that our lives will make them want to know Jesus!"
-Lore Wolif
How About You?
Do your actions cause people to notice that you're different--different from the world in general? You may not be an angel, but if you've trusted Jesus as your Savior, you have the light of His love in your life and can point others to Him through your words, your actions, and your attitude. What can you do to be a light in your school and neighborhood?
Today's Key Verse:
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV) (Matthew 5:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Be a light for Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 8:26-27
Kyleigh walked out into the garage. "I want to wear my new blue shirt, Mom.
Did you wash it?"
Mom, who was stripping paint off a desk, looked up and nodded. "Yes, I washed it. It's on a hanger in the laundry room, but it needs ironing. It's pretty wrinkled."
"I can do that," said Kyleigh. "I'll call for help if I need it." She hurried off and got out the iron.
When the shirt was pressed, Kyleigh showed it to her mom. "Look! This shirt was a wrinkly mess before, but it's all nice and neat now!"
That night at dinner, Mom asked Kyleigh to say the blessing. "Thank you for this food and our home and..." Kyleigh paused. "And please be with Dad. Amen."
"Something on your mind?" asked Mom as Kyleigh glumly passed her the potatoes.
Kyleigh shrugged. "I just don't know how to pray for Dad. I wish he wasn't in jail, but I'm afraid if he got out he'd just keep doing the things that got him there in the first place."
Mom nodded. "I know what you mean." She pointed at Kyleigh's shirt. "That iron sure took care of all those wrinkles, didn't it?"
Kyleigh looked down at her shirt. "Um, yeah, but what does that have to do with Dad?"
"Well," said Mom, "the Holy Spirit does the same thing with our wrinkly prayers."
"Wrinkly prayers?" repeated Kyleigh. "What are those?"
"They're the prayers we're not sure how to pray," said Mom. "We don't know everything that's going on in someone's life or the best solution to a problem, but God does. When we pray about those things, we might be afraid of asking for the wrong things sometimes because we can't see the whole picture."
"Kind of like my messy, wrinkled shirt?" asked Kyleigh.
"Exactly," said Mom. "But when we pray about things that are unclear or confusing, the Holy Spirit irons out the wrinkles so that, before God's throne, they make perfect sense." Mom squeezed Kyleigh's hand. "Keep praying for Dad, Kyleigh. God knows exactly what you're trying to say, and you can trust Him to do what's best."
-Gayle J. Thorn
How About You?
Do you sometimes feel like you're not sure what to say when you pray? Are there people or situations you want to pray about, but you're not sure how to begin? God wants you to come to Him with anything and everything that concerns you. Tell Him the best way you can, and trust the Holy Spirit to smooth out the wrinkles.
Today's Key Verse:
We don't know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit himself speaks to God for us. (ERV) (Romans 8:26)
Today's Key Thought:
Pray freely to God
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:13-18
"Oh, she's so cute!" squealed Kelsey, looking at the baby her mother held. The baby wrapped her tiny fingers around Kelsey's thumb and stared at her face. "I wish she would smile at me," Kelsey said.
"Don't worry," Mom replied. "She's just getting to know us. Give her some time to get used to regular meals and a safe place to sleep, and she'll be smiling in no time!"
"Will we get to keep her?" Kelsey asked, still holding the little one's hand.
"We don't know the future," Mom replied gently. "We're her foster family for now because her home isn't safe. But there are people working with her parents to help them become safe for her. If that goes well, she will get to go home with her mom and dad."
Kelsey sighed. "I want her to be with her parents, but I want her to stay with us too. I can't decide."
"Well, honey, thankfully it isn't up to you to decide. We can trust that God already knows this little one's future, and He loves her even more than her parents do, and more than we do. Whether she stays with us or goes home with her parents, or even if she grows up in a different family altogether, we can pray that God would shine the light of His love into her life." Mom smiled at Kelsey. "My mother always used to say, 'I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future.' God is a loving Father with strong hands. He holds all of us, not just this sweet little girl. He also knows your future, Kelsey. And since you know Jesus, He has wonderful things in store for you and for all those who have eternal life with Him."
Kelsey leaned in to give the baby a kiss, then pulled back quickly. "Mom, I think I know what the future holds."
"Oh really?" Mom's eyebrows went up.
"Yup. It's a new diaper. This baby stinks!" Kelsey laughed as she dramatically held her nose.
Mom started laughing too. "You're certainly right!"
The baby looked at their smiling faces, and the edges of her mouth lifted a little.
"She smiled, Mom! Her future is looking brighter already."
Mom nodded as she carried the baby to the changing table. "It certainly is with a big foster sister like you!"
-Karen McMillan
How About You?
Do you worry about the future? Are there difficult situations in your family or some big concerns ahead for you? You can trust that God already knows about them--our difficulties never catch Him off guard. He holds the future in His hands, and He has wonderful plans in place for those who trust in Jesus, even though we still face difficulties in our lives. Trust Him to be with you through life's problems, knowing you have a bright future with Him.
Today's Key Verse:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (NIV) (Jeremiah 29:11)
Today's Key Thought:
God holds the future
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9
"Hurry, Dad!" urged Archer as he and his father sped down the freeway toward the baseball stadium. It was his first time going to a major league baseball game, and he didn't want to miss any part of it. "If we're late, we might not find a good place to sit!"
"Don't worry, Archer. They won't give our seats away. Our tickets are right here." Dad tapped his left jacket pocket. "Bought and paid for. Our places are reserved for us."
"Reserved--that means they're saved for us, right?"
"Right," said Dad as he turned into the stadium parking lot. "People make reservations all the time--for airplane tickets, hotel rooms, restaurants, and…" Dad patted his pocket again. "For seats at baseball games." He glanced at Archer. "You may not have known it, but when you trusted Jesus as your Savior at camp last month, He made a reservation for you then too."
"Really?" Archer looked at his father in surprise.
"Yes!" said Dad. "You now have a reservation in heaven, and there will always be a place there for you. Jesus paid for it Himself by dying on the cross for your sins and rising from the dead, and when He comes back one day, you'll have your own special place in the new, perfect world He creates."
They parked the car and hurried to the stadium. "Are you sure they saved our seats?" asked Archer as he looked at the sea of spectators. "If they didn't, we'll probably have to stand up the entire game!"
Dad smiled as he looked at the stubs of their tickets. He motioned toward a man who was helping people find their seats. "That gentleman will show us where to go," said Dad. "Come on."
Archer followed his dad through the noisy crowd, and soon, there they were--two empty seats. "All right!" said Archer. "Here they are, Dad! Just waiting for us!"
As they settled down into their seats, Dad turned to Archer. "These seats are great, but they're nothing compared to having reservations in heaven, are they? I'm glad there are places saved for both of us there." Archer smiled and nodded, then turned toward the field to watch the game.
–Jonnye R. Griffin
How About You?
Do you ever worry that you don't have a place reserved in heaven? If you've confessed that you're a sinner and trusted Jesus as your Savior, you've been given a place in His eternal kingdom that will never be taken away. If you haven't trusted Him as your Savior, don't wait. Trust in Jesus today, and you will have a place with Him for all eternity. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
[God has given us] a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance…reserved in heaven for you. (NKJV) (1 Peter 1:3-4)
Today's Key Thought:
Reserve your place in heaven
Bible Reading: Psalm 105:1-8; Luke 12:22-31
Emma lay in bed, listening to her parents' voices on the other side of the wall.
"We can't afford a vacation this year, Lindsey." Dad's voice sounded sad.
Emma could barely hear her mother's worried voice. "How are we going to pay this bill, Jeff?" Emma huddled deeper under her blankets. She knew her parents didn't want her to worry, but her stomach hurt.
Everything was different. First Dad lost his job, then Mom worked longer hours. Dad searched for a new job every day, yet Emma had overheard her parents say they might need to move. "God, can't you give my dad his job back?" Emma prayed as she drifted to sleep.
Mom poked her head into Emma's room the next morning. "Time to get ready for church, sleepyhead."
"Why?" Emma asked. "If God can do the things we learn about in church, why doesn't He give Dad a job?"
"Get ready," Mom told her. "We'll talk some more after breakfast."
After Emma rinsed her cereal bowl, Mom led her outside. "Look at the bird feeder."
"Mom, we haven't filled it since Dad lost his job," Emma pointed out.
"Are the birds worried about the empty feeder?" Mom asked.
Emma looked around. She saw sparrows nibbling in the trees. Others rooted in the grass, and still more perched on their neighbor's feeder. "No," Emma answered.
"For years, God provided for our family through Dad's job," Mom explained. "God is still providing, but in different ways."
"Like how the birds that used to come to our feeder now go other places?" Emma asked.
"Yes," said Mom. "The Bible stories you learn in church remind us how God has helped many people through many hard times in many different ways. He helped us when we needed it most by sending Jesus to save us from sin, and we can trust Him to help us in every situation we face. Church is also where we can connect with other Christians and hear them thank God for what He's done to help them. Their words remind us that God is with us and cares for us even though our situation may be different from theirs."
"And thanking God at church for providing for us might help someone else," Emma said as she headed for the car.
–Heidi J. Schmidt
How About You?
When life changes, do you think about how God has cared for you in the past? Do you spend time with other Christians who can remind you of His love and promises? Have you thanked Him for how He is caring for you now? Remember that God can care for you and your family in many different ways. No matter what your situation is, God is always with you. His love never fails.
Today's Key Verse:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord! Call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples! (NKJV) (Psalm 105:1)
Today's Key Thought:
God provides in different ways
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:13-14; 6:9-10
Fifty cents is all the money I have left, and that won't buy much of a gift for Mrs. Morgan, Ivy thought as she passed Mrs. Morgan's house. It was just the kind of day her neighbor liked--cool air and lots of bright sunshine. But Mrs. Morgan was sick and in the hospital. I hope she has a window in her hospital room, thought Ivy.
When Dad came home, Ivy asked if he had any idea what gift she could get Mrs. Morgan with only a little money. Dad thought about it. "I don't know. Do you want me to add some money to what you already have?"
"No--it wouldn't really be from me then," said Ivy. "I want to get something for her with my own money."
"Then how about an advance on your allowance?" suggested Dad.
Ivy hesitated. "I guess that would be okay. I thought about earning some more money, but Mrs. Morgan is the only one who ever hires me to help her." She looked at Dad. "Is there anything I could do for you to earn money?"
"Well, maybe," said Dad. "But Ivy, there are many ways of giving. Your gift to Mrs. Morgan doesn't have to be something you buy. The Bible tells us to bear one another's burdens. What do you think that means?"
Ivy thought for a moment. "I think it means we should help others when they're going through hard times."
"Right," said Dad. "Maybe your gift to Mrs. Morgan could be something to show her that you're sharing her troubles. That's the kind of gift God gave us when He sent us His Son. Jesus took our sins on Himself when He died on the cross, and He promises to be with us through every struggle we face, giving us strength and comfort. When we help others in their struggles, we give them the gift of ourselves, just like Jesus did."
Ivy thought about how Mrs. Morgan was a widow with no family living close by. I'll try to go see her a couple times a week, she thought. And I don't think anyone's watering her plants or bringing her mail in--I can do those things too! I'll do all I can to help Mrs. Morgan.
–Daryl B. Knauer
How About You?
Do you know someone who needs help? Maybe you have a friend who is sick or a neighbor who can't keep up with their yard work. Is there a way you could help that person bear their burden? Perhaps you could help them by raking leaves, running errands, or just stopping by to visit every once in a while. When you share other people's burdens, you lighten their load and show them Jesus's love.
Today's Key Verse:
Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. (NLT) (Galatians 6:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Help others
Bible Reading: Job 29:1-3; Psalm 119:105
"How did your driving test go?" Alex asked her older sister when Becky walked into the house with Dad.
Becky gave a sigh. "I failed!"
"What happened?" asked Alex.
"I nearly got into an accident. I was trying to change lanes and a car appeared from nowhere and I almost crashed into it!" exclaimed Becky. "The examiner said I had to be careful of blind spots."
"Blind spots? What are those?" asked Alex.
Dad answered, "Well, in driving, a blind spot is an area around your car, usually behind the driver's shoulder, that you can't see with mirrors. You must turn your head to check for cars before you change lanes."
"Yup, and I just looked at the rearview mirror and didn't see the car right next to me," said Becky. "I forgot to turn my head to look for cars."
"Hopefully with more practice you'll remember," said Dad. "But there's another kind of blind spot we can't see ourselves--we need someone else to point it out to us."
"Does that mean no one should ever drive alone?" asked Alex.
Dad chuckled. "No, I'm not talking about a blind spot around a car. I'm talking about an area we can't see in our spiritual lives, like weaknesses or things we've done wrong that we're not aware of."
"What should we do then? Turn our head?" asked Alex.
Dad smiled. "We turn to God's Word. The Bible shows us our sin, and God also puts people in our lives who can help us see our shortcomings. Then, when we see what we've done wrong, we need to turn to Jesus for forgiveness and trust Him to guide us and lead us the right way."
Becky nodded thoughtfully. "You and Mom always correct me when I say something rude without realizing it."
"And you remind me not to whine and complain," said Alex.
"Well, we all have our blind spots," said Dad. "When people point out our mistakes, we become aware of them. Then we can ask Jesus to forgive us and help us change."
"We need God's light to guide us and help us see," commented Becky.
"Well said, Becky," said Dad with a smile.
–Kelly Choy
How About You?
Do you know your blind spots? You can't see them yourself--you need God to show them to you through the truth of His Word. He often uses people to help you see them too. When someone points out something you shouldn't have said or done, be thankful that you can now see that blind spot. Then turn to Jesus, who died for your sins and promises to forgive you. Trust Him to guide you as you live in His light.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said,] "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (NIV) (John 8:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Let Jesus guide you
Bible Reading: Luke 6:45; James 3:8-13
"Your turn to pray, Carlos," said Maria when their family sat down to eat.
"Okay." Carlos bowed his head. "Thank you, God, for this day and this food…"
When Carlos looked up a moment later, he groaned. "Oh no! Not broccoli again! I hate broccoli--and I don't like chicken fixed like that!" But Carlos knew he had to eat some, so he took a small portion from each dish. "This weather is way too hot," he complained between bites.
Dad frowned. "Carlos, do you think God heard your prayer tonight?"
Carlos looked at Dad in surprise. "Of course," he replied.
"And does He hear your grumbling too?" asked Dad.
Carlos looked down at his plate. "I guess so," he admitted.
Dad nodded. "I think so too. After dinner, we'll go out to the pond. I think it has something to teach you."
At the edge of the pond a short time later, Carlos watched as Dad took a bucket and hauled up some water. "Are we going to water the garden?" asked Carlos.
Dad shook his head and held out the bucket. "Here. Have a drink."
"Eww!" exclaimed Carlos. "Dad, you know the water in this pond is filthy!"
"Yes," said Dad, "but you won't be drinking the water in the pond. You'll be drinking the water in the bucket."
Carlos made a face. "If the water in the pond isn't good, the water in the bucket won't be good either. It's the same thing."
Dad nodded. "Right again. What's in the pond comes up in the bucket. That's like something Jesus taught. He said, 'What you say flows from what is in your heart.' Think about your prayer tonight, Carlos--and about what you said after you prayed. You thanked God and then griped about the very things you thanked Him for. I've noticed that attitude more often lately, but you have the ability to change it. Jesus has given you a new, clean heart because He loves you, Carlos--He loves you so much that He died for your sins. Because of that, your words should be rooted in gratitude for everything He's done for you."
Carlos looked at the stuff floating on the water in the bucket. "I'm sorry," he murmured. "I'll tell Jesus I'm sorry too."
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
What kind of attitude do you show others by what you say? The Bible says that our words flow from what's in our hearts. Do your words tell others that you have a thankful heart? Life isn't easy, but if you know Jesus, He is always with you and has given you a new heart so you can share His love and goodness with others. Instead of complaining, thank Him for His goodness to you and tell others about the good things He does for you each day.
Today's Key Verse:
Blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! (NLT) (James 3:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Have a thankful heart
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4, 11-13
It's not fair, Tayden thought as he pulled weeds out of the flower beds in front of his house. All my friends are at the water park today, but because I can't get the bandage on my foot wet, I'm stuck weeding. He thought of everything that had happened that week. First he cut his foot on a piece of glass and had to get stitches. Then his bike was stolen. And yesterday his best friend told him he couldn't come to Tayden's birthday party because his family would be on vacation then. What a horrible week, thought Tayden as he yanked another weed out of the ground.
Later that day Grandpa came over and looked at the garden Tayden had been weeding. "You did a good job," said Grandpa. He pointed to one of the flower beds. "Those bright pink blossoms sure are pretty."
Tayden looked at the flowers. "They must've just bloomed this afternoon. They weren't there when I weeded this morning."
Grandpa laughed. "Actually, I saw them when I was here a few days ago. They're so bright, I'm surprised you missed them."
"I guess I was too busy looking for weeds to notice them," said Tayden.
Grandpa nodded. "It's funny how our eyes miss things like that sometimes when we're not actively looking for them." He scratched his head in thought. "That can happen in life too. Sometimes we only see the weeds in our lives--the bad things that happen to us. We're so busy fretting and complaining that we don't notice the flowers--the good things God has put in our lives."
Wow! That sounds like me, thought Tayden as he recalled his thoughts earlier that day about what a bad week he'd had.
"Life is far from perfect," said Grandpa. "Yet we have so much to be thankful for. We have the hope of eternal life with Jesus, who gave His life to save us and be with us forever. He fills our lives with love, grace, joy, and other blessings every day, even when things are hard. If we only focus on the bad things, we might miss the beautiful blooms of God's blessings."
Tayden gave his grandfather a little smile. "Okay, Grandpa. I'll be on the lookout for the good things God has given me."
–Hannah Banura
How About You?
Do you often worry and complain about what's going on in your life? Does it seem like everything that happens to you is bad? Even though you may have some bad things to deal with, Jesus promises to help you. He died for your sins so you could experience the blessing of knowing Him as your Savior, and He fills your life with many daily blessings too. When you look for life's flowers, you'll soon see the many good things God has given you.
Today's Key Verse:
Be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." (NLT) (Hebrews 13:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Focus on good things
Bible Reading: Galatians 6:7-10
Mia and her brother Caden were getting ready to plant a small vegetable garden. "I'll get the seeds," said Caden. "They're in my room."
But Caden soon returned empty-handed. "I put the seeds on my desk, but they're gone!" he said. "Let's go ask Mom if she's seen them." Mia and Caden found Mom busily washing dirt off their little sister's face and arms. "How did Libby get so dirty?" asked Caden.
"She was playing outside--digging in the flower beds," Mom answered.
"I wasn't playing," said Libby. "I was planting a garden. I found the seeds on Caden's desk, so I planted 'em for you."
"You what?" Mia was shocked. "You don't know how to plant a garden!"
"Do too!" said Libby. "I dug a big hole and put all the seeds in it."
"They weren't yours!" yelled Mia. "You stole them, you little thief!"
"That's enough, Mia," said Mom.
"Well, she did!" Mia exclaimed. "And everybody hates thieves--including me!" She turned and ran to her room.
Mom came in a little later. "Mia, do you remember what we read this morning?"
"Um…something from the Bible about reaping what we sow," mumbled Mia.
"Yes," said Mom. "It was wrong of Libby to use those seeds, but what you planted was worse."
"I didn't plant anything," said Mia. "Libby stole our seeds, remember?"
"You planted a seed of hate between you and your sister," said Mom. "Do you want that seed to grow and reap hatred back from Libby?"
Mia sighed. "I…I didn't mean what I said. I was just mad."
"I know," said Mom. "But when we sow mean, angry words, it's going to have an effect on our relationships. That's why we need to trust Jesus to help us love others the way He does and be patient with them. Because He loved us enough to save us by dying for our sins, we can sow seeds of love in our relationships with others."
Mia nodded. "I'll tell Libby I'm sorry. And maybe we could buy some more seeds so I can teach her how to plant them the right way."
"I think that's a great idea," said Mom. "And I think you're learning how to plant some other seeds the right way too--seeds of kindness."
–Tiare A. Street
How About You?
What kind of seeds do you sow? How do you react when people do things you don't like? The Bible says you reap what you sow, meaning that what you plant in your relationships with others is what will grow over time. You sow seeds by the way you treat others. Trust God to help you sow seeds of love that will produce a fruitful harvest of the love He has shown you.
Today's Key Verse:
Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. (NKJV) (Galatians 6:7)
Today's Key Thought:
You reap what you sow
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:19-21
Amelia looked down at her paint-splattered T-shirt and jeans and shook her head. "I'm trying to keep it on the wall."
Her dad grinned. "Me too, but look at my hair."
Amelia's eyes widened. "What if the blue never comes out?"
"Then I guess I'll have blue hair," Dad said.
"You two sound like you're having fun in here." Mom stepped into the doorway. "Mind if I join you?"
Amelia looked at her mom and giggled. "You have pink paint in your hair."
"I do?" Mom pulled her ponytail forward to see. "Oh, well. It will wash out."
Amelia dipped her roller in the paint pan. "I didn't know painting could be so much fun."
"I know," Mom said. "I think part of it is knowing we're doing this for someone else. I can't wait to see your cousins' faces when they see the freshly painted walls."
Dad nodded. "It feels good to do this for your aunt after all she's been through lately."
"It feels kind of like Christmas morning," Amelia said as she rolled more paint on the wall. "I thought I could only feel like that if I were getting something."
"Well, in a way, you are getting something," Dad said. "You know how the Bible tells us not to store treasures on earth but to store them in heaven? Today, helping out your aunt and cousins like this, you're storing up treasures in heaven."
"We store treasures in heaven by doing good things for others?" asked Amelia.
Dad nodded. "The Bible reminds us that earthly treasures don't last forever, but Jesus loved us so much that He died and rose again so we could be part of His eternal kingdom. When we do things for others to show them His love, God promises to use our loving deeds to build His kingdom. It's one way we store up treasures that last."
"I want to do stuff like this more often," Amelia said.
"I think that would be a great idea," said Mom. "We can find other ways to share God's love as a family."
Amelia smiled as she put one more stripe of paint on the wall, knowing her cousins were going to love their new room. She couldn't wait to do even more to serve others and store treasures in heaven.
–Bethany Acker
How About You?
Do you ever take the time to do good things for others? When you serve others to show them the love of Jesus, you are storing treasure in heaven where it will last forever! Trust God to help you store up heavenly treasures by keeping your focus on Jesus and His kingdom and by showing others His love.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (NIV) (Hebrews 13:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Do good to others
Bible Reading: John 8:31-36
"Grandpa, look at that one!" exclaimed Easton as a burst of colorful sparks filled the air. He watched in awe as the twirling sparks wove patterns of color in the sky as they made their way down to the earth. "It's the best one yet." The fireworks display was spectacular. Amid ohs and ahs from the crowd, a variety of reds, greens, yellows, blues, and blazing whites lit up the sky.
After the grand finale, Grandpa and Easton stood and stretched. "Do you know why we celebrate the Fourth of July?" asked Grandpa.
"Sure," replied Easton as they walked back to the car. "It's a special day that's set aside to celebrate our freedom and liberty."
Grandpa nodded. "We live in a country where we can choose what kind of work we want to do, travel where we want, say what we think, vote for those we want to be elected, and meet for public worship of God. Not everyone has those privileges."
"I know, Grandpa," said Easton. "I'm glad we can do those things here."
"I am too," said Grandpa. After a moment, he added, "But did you know, Easton, that the greatest freedom anyone can have is available to people in every country of the world?"
"It is?" asked Easton.
Grandpa nodded. "Unfortunately, many people don't know about that freedom," he said. "I'm talking about the freedom that Jesus Christ gives to everyone who trusts in Him. When we trust Him to forgive us for all the wrong things we've done and be our Savior, He makes us His children and frees us from the power and the punishment of sin. That's the most spectacular freedom anyone will ever have."
"Then we should celebrate that too," said Easton with a grin. "Can we have fireworks again tomorrow?"
Grandpa laughed. "That might not be a bad idea. We should certainly let the world know about this freedom and tell people that they can enjoy it too. All right. We'll have to think about a good way to celebrate our freedom in Christ, and then let's do it!"
–Linda E. Knight
How About You?
Do you celebrate the freedom from sin that Jesus gives? If you know Him as your Savior, you are truly free--you're no longer ruled by sin and you're free from its punishment. That's a reason to celebrate! Be as outspoken about your freedom in Christ as you are about the other freedoms you enjoy. Let others know they can have this freedom too!
Today's Key Verse:
If the Son [Jesus] sets you free, you are truly free. (NLT) (John 8:36)
Today's Key Thought:
Celebrate freedom in Christ
Bible Reading: Romans 4:5-8; Ephesians 2:8-9
"Gotcha!" Eli shouted as he took another of Adrian's game pieces off the board. Adrian groaned, then gave Eli a playful shove.
"Adrian," said Eli's mom as she came into the room, "you're welcome to stay for dinner if you'd like. I'm making roast chicken and biscuits."
"Really? Thanks!" said Adrian. "I love your cooking!"
"Call your mom and make sure it's okay," said Eli's mom. "Tell her we'll drop you off on our way to church--or you can come to church with us."
"Okay," said Adrian. After Eli's mom left, Adrian turned to Eli. "You sure have to work hard to be Christians, don't you?"
"What do you mean?" asked Eli.
"You go to church all the time," replied Adrian. "And you can't do certain things."
"But that's not what makes us Christians," said Eli. "Trusting that Jesus died and rose again to save us is the only thing that counts." Adrian just shrugged.
When Eli's mom called them into the kitchen, Adrian's mouth watered at the smell of the chicken and biscuits. "Is there anything I can do?" he asked. "Do you need help setting the table?"
"Nope," said Eli's mom. "Everything's already done." She picked up a steaming dish. "All you need to do is eat!"
They sat down and Eli's mom said a prayer, then she passed the chicken to Adrian. "This looks delicious!" he said as he stuck his fork into a leg. He bit into it and closed his eyes. "Wow. I could never cook like this!"
Eli's mom smiled. "Adrian, I overheard you say that being a Christian seems like a lot of work, but it's Jesus who did all the work. We go to church and trust God to help us do what's right because Jesus has saved us and we love Him, not to become Christians. Salvation--being saved from sin and having eternal life--is a gift from God." She passed the bowl of biscuits to Adrian. "It's just like this meal I made. You don't need to work for it. Just take it."
A smile spread across Adrian's face. "I think I will." He bit into a biscuit and chewed it thoughtfully. "Can I come to church with you tonight? I want to hear more about this gift from God."
–Esther M. Bailey
How About You?
Have you taken the gift of salvation? There's nothing you can do to earn a gift. You can't become a Christian by doing good things or going to church. You only become a Christian by accepting the gift of eternal life that Jesus died to give you. Receive that gift today by trusting in Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NKJV) (Romans 6:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Receive God's gift of eternal life
Bible Reading: Hebrews 11:17-29
Dimitri stood in place on the race track, alert and ready to spring into action for the final lap of the relay race. When his teammate passed him the baton, Dimitri sprinted down the track and was soon at full speed. Pushing himself to his limit, he zoomed ahead of his opponent. They were a full yard apart by the end of his run, and the crowd cheered as he crossed the finish line. "You did it, Dimitri! You did it!" his teammates called out.
"That team we were running against hasn't been beaten in four years!" he told Grandpa on the way home.
Grandpa grinned. "But you beat them today!"
A few months later, Dimitri and his mom arrived home after attending Grandpa's funeral. Grandpa had died of a heart attack, and Dimitri was still reeling from it. "I'm sure going to miss him," he said, tears filling his eyes. "He was the best grandpa in the world. I guess he was extra special to me because Dad died before I can remember."
"I know," said Mom. "Grandpa loved Jesus and cared so much for other people--especially you."
Dimitri nodded. "A lot of people will miss him." He absentmindedly picked up a picture of his relay team with the trophy they had won. "I'm glad Grandpa was here when our team won that trophy this year."
"Yes, he enjoyed watching you race," Mom said, looking over Dimitri's shoulder at the picture. "Did you know that the Bible compares living the Christian life to running a race? In a way, it's like the relay races you've been running. Christians run in their appointed time and place in life. When they finish their race, others take over and carry on."
"Well, then Grandpa was one of the best runners ever!" said Dimitri.
Mom smiled and nodded in agreement. "In all he did and said, he carried the truth and love of Jesus like a baton as he ran. I know he wanted to pass that baton on to you. Take it and run the very best you can, trusting God to help you share the love of Jesus and the truth of how He died and rose again to save us with others. Will you do that?" Dimitri wiped his eyes and nodded.
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Did you know that you're a runner in the race of life? The heroes of the faith referred to in Hebrews 11--and many other faithful Christians throughout the ages--have run ahead of you. Now it's your turn to run the race by trusting in Jesus and sharing His love and truth with others. Let Him help you be a good runner in life's race, knowing He's won you the prize of eternal life and will get you to the finish line.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. (CSB) (Hebrews 12:1-2)
Today's Key Thought:
Run well in life's race
Bible Reading: Isaiah 43:1-5; Hebrews 4:14-16
As Noel stood near the visitor center on Trail Ridge Road, she could see patches of snow far up on the mountainsides. The few trees in the area above the timberline had been dwarfed and twisted by the icy winds of winter. But summer had come, and tiny white and yellow flowers were waving their bright heads as if dancing to music.
"Look, Noel," said Dad when they walked over to see the flowers in a field next to the visitor center. He knelt among them and gently cupped one of the fragile, white blossoms in his hand. "See how tiny this flower is! But isn't it beautiful? There must be a million of these!"
"That one has a torn petal though," said Noel.
"I see that," answered Dad. "Yet here it is--adding its own little bit to the beauty of this place. Even though it's tiny and not perfect, it has a purpose in being here--just like all the other things in God's world." Noel wondered what her father was getting at, but she didn't ask.
As they drove back down the mountain a little later, Dad said, "I think the purpose of that little flower was to remind me of you, Noel. You've lived through some cold and blustery times in your life."
Noel knew what Dad meant. She had been sick many of her early childhood years. As a result, she had to wear hearing aids. She was also a grade behind other kids her age in school.
"I know you sometimes feel small and unimportant," continued Dad. "But I want you to remember that you have a purpose. You mean so much to us--and to God."
Noel thought about the tiny flower adding its small bit of beauty to the world. She gave her dad a little smile. "And you think I can add a little beauty to where God has put me?"
"I know you can," Dad assured her. "You already do. Jesus died for you so you could be God's child, and He understands everything you've been through. Because you know Him, you can show the beauty of His love to others."
Noel grinned. "Okay," she said. "If a tiny flower with a torn petal can add beauty to the world, I can too! And with God helping me, I will!"
–Trudy VanderVeen
How About You?
Do you compare yourself with others and feel like you don't measure up? Do you have some disability or scar that makes you feel self-conscious? God loves you just as you are, and He has a purpose for your life. Jesus died and rose again so you could be part of God's family and live with Him forever. You are very precious and valuable--to other people and especially to God.
Today's Key Verse:
I [God] have called you by your name; you are mine…you are precious in my sight and honored, and I love you. (CSB) (Isaiah 43:1, 4)
Today's Key Thought:
You are valuable
Bible Reading: John 13:34-35; Romans 5:6-8; Galatians 5:22-23
On a Saturday morning hike, Jude and his father came to the entrance of a tunnel that went under a road. "Hello in there!" Jude called out. "Hello!"
"Hello…" came the sound of an echo. "Hello…"
Jude grinned. "I'm Jude!" he shouted. "Jude!"
"Jude…Jude…" his voice echoed back.
Soon they were through the tunnel and heading across the next open field. "Hello there!" yelled Jude once again, but there was no answering echo. Jude laughed. "I knew there wouldn't be an echo out here. I just thought I'd try it anyway."
"When sound waves hit the hard walls of the tunnel, they bounce back as an echo," Dad explained. "Out here in this open space, there aren't any obstacles like that, so the sound keeps going."
After a good hike, Jude and Dad headed home. "I hope Izzy and Ella are gone somewhere by the time we get home," Jude told his dad. "They're so annoying."
"Well, your sisters have some complaints about you too--they say you pick on them all the time," replied Dad. "I think all of you should work on getting along with each other."
"Oh, come on, Dad," said Jude. "You know what a pain sisters can be. You had three of them!"
"Yes," said Dad, "and they were a pain at times, but I'm sure they'd tell you how much of a pain I could be too. Besides, God tells us to love others and live in peace with them. That includes sisters."
"I've heard that before," said Jude. "All the time, it seems--home, church, Bible club. Everyone's always telling me to love others and be kind."
"That's because, as Christians, it's important for us to show others the love God has shown us." Dad looked at Jude thoughtfully. "Remember how everything you said in the tunnel echoed back to you? Well, as God's children, our words and actions should echo His. The Bible tells us what God is like and how He sent His own Son to die for us so we could be freed from sin. God showed His perfect love to us through Jesus, and He empowers us to be echoes of that love. Trust Him to help you echo the love of Jesus in your relationships with others--including your sisters."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Does your life echo the love of God? The Bible tells us of God's great love and how Jesus gave His life to save us from sin and death. If you know Jesus as your Savior, He gives you power through the Holy Spirit to love others the way He does. Look up Galatians 5:22-23 to see some ways we show God's love in our relationships. Thentrust God to help you be an echo of the love He has shown us.
Today's Key Verse:
We love because he first loved us. (CSB) (1 John 4:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Echo God's love
Bible Reading: Psalm 56:3-4; 1 Peter 5:7
Casey sat on the porch swing clutching her favorite stuffed animal, an elephant named Tiny. "Tiny, I'm scared! I don't want to have my tonsils out tomorrow."
Mom overheard Casey talking to Tiny and walked out onto the porch. Casey began to cry, and Mom held her close.
"I'm sorry you have to go through this, but I know you're going to do just fine, and it will help you not get so sick all the time."
"But I'm scared!" said Casey.
"Remember how afraid you'd get of thunderstorms when you were younger and the verse we'd always read together?" asked Mom. "Let's read that verse together again."
Mom took out her phone and looked up Psalm 56:3. "When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you," she read. "Casey, I know having surgery is a scary thing, but when you start feeling anxious, remember that Jesus loves you and promises to be with you. Give Him your worries so that He can replace your anxious feelings with His peace."
"I want to pray right now," said Casey. So she and Mom bowed their heads and Casey prayed aloud, "Dear Lord, I'm really scared about my surgery tomorrow, and I really wish I didn't have to do it, but I know it will help me stay healthier. Please calm my fears and give me Your peace and comfort. Thank you for saving me and for hearing me when I pray. Amen!" Mom gave Casey a hug, and they sat swinging quietly for a while longer.
The next morning right before her surgery, holding Tiny tightly in her arms, Casey prayed again. When she finished, she smiled at her mom. "Thanks, Mom, for reminding me I can trust God and know He's always with me whenever I feel afraid."
Mom held Casey's hand as the nurses pushed her down to surgery. "See you in a bit. I love you."
Casey came through the surgery just fine. She did have a very sore throat, but she was excited that she would be getting all the ice cream and milkshakes she wanted. Most of all, she was thankful that God loved her and that He was taking care of her. She didn't need to be afraid--she could always bring her fears to the Lord and trust in Him.
–Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you ever been really, really afraid? Maybe you had fears about a test, surgery, or a thunderstorm. When you feel afraid, remember that the Lord wants you to give your fears to Him. If you know Jesus, He is always with you, and even in the worst situations, you can have peace knowing that He loves you and has promised you eternal life with Him. So give your anxious thoughts to the Lord and He will give you His peace and comfort as you trust in Him.
Today's Key Verse:
I prayed to the Lord, and he answered me. He freed me from all my fears. (NLT) (Psalm 34:4)
Today's Key Thought:
Give your fears to God
Bible Reading: Mark 4:13-20
"Mom! Dad!" called Jayden as he raced into the house. "Come quick! I think a watermelon is growing in the backyard!"
"Really?" asked Dad. "That ground out back is so poor and rocky. I wouldn't think a watermelon could grow there."
"But there is one!" insisted Jayden. "Come and see."
"We'll look later," said Dad. "Right now we have to get to the homeless shelter or we'll be late for chapel." Jayden's family had agreed to lead the shelter's evening chapel service once a month.
"Oh, all right," said Jayden. He went to his room and got his trumpet and sheet music for the songs he would be playing at the shelter.
On the way home a couple of hours later, they discussed the service. "I don't think anyone was paying attention today," said Jayden. "I think it was a waste of time for us to go there."
"Sharing the gospel is never a waste of time," said Mom. "Someone who doesn't seem interested may actually be ready to trust Jesus as their Savior."
As soon as they got home, Jayden persuaded his parents to go look at the watermelon plant. Sure enough, there was a vine with one very small watermelon on it. "This must have grown from some seeds we threw out here last year," said Jayden.
"I think you're right," said Mom. "I've thought about planting a garden back here, but I didn't think this soil was good for growing anything. I guess I was wrong. It looks like one of those seeds fell on ground that was just right for watermelons. If it keeps growing, we'll get some fruit we didn't expect."
"We scattered another kind of seed today--the seed of God's Word," said Dad. "Like you said, Jayden, no one at the homeless shelter seemed to pay much attention, but we don't know the condition of the hearts of those people. It's possible that the seed we planted there will bring unexpected fruit too."
"You mean some of those people might still trust in Jesus because of what they heard today?" asked Jayden.
Dad nodded. "Jesus loves those people and died for them, just like He loves and died for us. Let's pray that God will make the seeds we scattered today grow in their hearts and produce fruit."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Do you feel like it's useless to share the gospel--especially with people who don't seem interested? The parable of the sower in Mark 4 tells us that the seed of God's Word falls on many different kinds of soil in people's hearts. You can't see what kind of heart-soil anyone has, but keep sharing the good news about Jesus--you never know whose heart is ready to trust in Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Other seed fell on good ground and it grew up, producing fruit. (CSB) (Mark 4:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Keep spreading God's Word
Bible Reading: Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
"What are you going to do with that?" Chloe asked when she saw her sister grab five dollars from her dresser before church.
"We're taking an offering today for the missions project," Taryn told her. "Did you forget?"
"Guess so," replied Chloe. But I'm not giving five whole dollars! she thought. So after her sister left the room, Chloe opened the drawer where she kept her money and took out some change. This will do, she thought as she dropped it into her pocket.
When they got home from church, Mom looked over at the flowers along the back porch. They were bursting with blooms. "Look at my pansies," she said. "Aren't they pretty?"
"Yeah!" said Taryn. "How can there be so many flowers already? You only picked off the dead ones a couple of days ago. And you picked some for little bouquets too, didn't you?"
"Yes, but pansies need to be picked often for them to blossom more fully," said Mom. "The more you pick, the more you get."
"That doesn't really make sense," said Chloe.
"Seems hard to believe, but it's true," said Mom. "It's true for other things too--like giving to the Lord. When we give to Him out of a generous, thankful heart, we receive more blessings in our lives."
"You mean God will send us more money if we give lots of money to Him?" Chloe asked.
"Well, I can't promise you that, although that could be one way He decides to bless us," said Mom. "But the extra blessings God gives us often come in a form other than money. For example, I think the greatest blessing is a sense of joy and peace that comes from giving generously to the Lord. When we give to Him with thankful hearts for all He's done for us, He reminds us of the blessings we already have in Jesus, who gave His life for us so we could have eternal life with Him. He also promises to provide for our needs so we can share His love with others by giving generously."
Chloe thought about Taryn, who was so generous and happy. Then she thought about how discontent she often felt, and she made a decision. I'm going to be like the pansies, she thought. I'm going to give more generously out of thankfulness for everything God has given me.
–Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you give generously to the Lord? Do you give with a thankful heart, remembering all the blessings He's given you? Whatever you give to God, He'll give you more than you give Him. It may not be money, but it will be whatever blessing you need most. Give to God generously and He'll use your gift to bless both you and others.
Today's Key Verse:
Give to others, and you will receive. You will be given much. It will be poured into your hands--more than you can hold. (ERV) (Luke 6:38 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be a generous giver
Bible Reading: John 3:16-17
It was a perfect day out on the lake--the air was hot and the water was cool. Gracie enjoyed the breeze as her dad motored their boat across the water.
"Okay, Teddy, you sit here and watch while I swim," Gracie told her teddy bear when the boat had stopped. She sat Teddy down near the boat's dashboard and then jumped into the water. Shadow, their dog, loved the water too, and he jumped in right behind her.
After an afternoon of swimming and tubing, Gracie and her parents tucked everything on the boat into place and then took off across the lake toward the dock.
"Oh no!" cried Gracie when she realized she'd forgotten her teddy bear.
Teddy went flying out of the boat. Dad slowed to a stop, and Shadow jumped in the water and retrieved the stuffed bear.
"Oh, thank you, Shadow," Gracie said as she gave the dog a hug.
"Wow, that was a close call," Mom said as Gracie squeezed as much water as she could out of her soaking-wet bear. "You'd better hold on to Teddy when Dad takes off again."
"I will!" Gracie said as she held Teddy close. Shadow plopped down beside Gracie for the rest of the boat ride.
When they arrived home, Mom put Teddy in the washing machine. "Good as new!" she announced as she handed Teddy to Gracie once he was clean.
During devotions that night, Dad read Galatians 1:4--"Jesus gave his life for our sins, just as God our Father planned, in order to rescue us from this evil world in which we live." He closed his Bible. "Shadow jumping in and rescuing Teddy today got me thinking about this verse," Dad said. "Just like Shadow rescued Teddy because he couldn't rescue himself, Jesus rescues us from our sins because we can't rescue ourselves either. By dying for our sins on the cross, Jesus made a way for us to have eternal life and live with Him forever. When we trust in Him, He saves us."
Gracie sat thinking, holding Teddy close. "I want Jesus to save me," she said.
That night Gracie gave her life to Jesus.
–Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you trusted Jesus to save you from sin? Sin is all around us in this world we live in, and it's also in our hearts. Sin is the reason we do wrong things, and we can't save ourselves from it. But God loves us so much that He made a rescue plan for us. He sent His Son, Jesus, to be the perfect sacrifice for our sins so we could be saved and spend eternity with Him. If you trust Him as your Savior today, He will rescue you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. (NLT) (John 3:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus to save you
Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Hebrews 10:22-25
"Wow," said Jace as he stared at his cousin Cody's backyard. "Two tree forts--with a rope bridge between them!" He shook his head. "You've got everything!"
Cody shrugged.
Jace climbed up the ladder. "Do you come here all the time?" He coughed and batted the air. "Ugh. I guess not. I just ran into a cobweb."
Cody scrambled up the ladder, twisted the cobweb onto a stick, and threw it out the window. "I haven't been up here in months."
Jace couldn't believe it. "If I had this, I'd be up here all the time!"
Cody shrugged again. "It's always been here. The people before us built it."
Jace stepped out onto the rope bridge. "I wish we could stay longer. I wanted to stay until tomorrow, but Dad wants to drive home tonight so we can go to church in the morning."
"What did your pastor talk about last Sunday?" asked Cody.
Jace shrugged. "I don't know. I was finishing my cartoon drawing."
"Your cartoon?" Cody sighed. "You're the one who doesn't know how good you have it!"
"Huh?" Jace was confused. "What do you mean?"
"I can only go to church when the neighbors take me. But now Dad says I can't go anymore because he's tired of hearing me talk about Jesus. I guess he had a bad experience at church as a kid." Cody ran his hand over the rope bridge railing. "I know this is a nice tree fort. But I'm so used to it, I don't care much about it. I don't think you know how nice it is to hear about Jesus because you've always heard about Him. I wish I could go to church every week."
Jace drew a big breath. "I never thought about it like that. My family has always gone to church, so I can learn about Jesus and be reminded of how much He loves me all the time." He was quiet a moment, then snapped his fingers. "I know! How about I listen to the sermon in church each week then send you a message on what it was about?"
"Really?" said Cody. "That would be great!"
"Yeah," said Jace. "And I have an extra Bible I'll give you so you can learn about Jesus during the week too."
–Laura Raborn
How About You?
Do your parents take you to church? Do you pay attention and learn all you can about God? Growing up with the opportunity to learn about Jesus and worship Him with others is a gift--something many people don't have. If God has put people in your life who want you to know about Jesus and how much He loves you--so much that He died on the cross to save you--thank Him for it and learn all you can!
Today's Key Verse:
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (NKJV) (2 Peter 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Appreciate learning about Jesus
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:2-5
As Amayah lay across the bed, sobbing, a tattered pink blanket was shoved up close to her. "Sissy, you can have my blanket." A tiny hand patted Amayah's head, and she turned and looked into the troubled eyes of her little sister, Peyton. "My blanket will make you feel all better," Peyton said.
Amayah felt the bed sag as her mom sat down beside her. "Missing Linden?" Mom asked softly.
Amayah nodded. "She was my best friend. I think about her all the time," she said, wiping her eyes. "Will I ever stop hurting? It's been three months since she died."
Mom handed her a tissue. "It's always hard to lose someone we love, especially someone as young as Linden."
Amayah took the tissue and blew her nose. Then she handed the blanket to Peyton. "You can have your blanket now, Peyton. Thanks."
With a contented sigh, Peyton hugged her blanket, and Mom pulled the little girl onto her lap. "That's your comforter, isn't it, honey?"
"No," said Peyton, looking puzzled. "It's my blanket."
Amayah smiled and lifted the edge of the comforter that was spread across her bed. "See this, Peyton? This is called a comforter."
Mom nodded thoughtfully. "You know, Amayah, since we trust in Jesus, God has given us His Holy Spirit to live within us and be our Comforter. He wants to comfort you."
Amayah sat up. "I know, Mom. When I prayed this morning, God seemed to tell me to remember the good times I had with Linden. I did, and I thought of the time when we both decided to give our lives to Jesus at camp. I remembered that she's with Him now and that I'll see her again one day, and I felt better for a while. I was still sad, but God did comfort me."
Peyton smiled at her sister, then jumped down and left the room, still clinging to her blanket. "Someday, Peyton won't need her security blanket anymore," Mom said. "But no matter how old we are, we'll always need our Comforter, God's Holy Spirit. He reminds us of God's promises and care, and He's always with us."
Amayah nodded and got up. "I'm doing better now," she said. "God is comforting me."
–Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you feel sad because someone you love has died? Or has a special friend--or maybe even a parent--moved away? Have you lost a pet? Are you worried about something? In this world, many things can happen to cause sadness in your heart. But if you know Jesus as your Savior, you have God's Holy Spirit. Let Him comfort you and remind you of the hope you have in Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort. (NKJV) (2 Corinthians 1:3)
Today's Key Thought:
God gives comfort
Bible Reading: Matthew 18:12-14
"Frank! Frank, come here, boy!" Zebb stepped back into the house and closed the sliding door with a sigh. "I think he ran away again. I've called him and called him, and he still hasn't come!"
Mom looked up from her computer and frowned. "Oh no. Dad must have forgotten to put his invisible fence collar back on after his bath." Zebb was looking out the window anxiously and ringing his hands together, so Mom closed her laptop and gave him an encouraging smile. "Why don't you put your boots on and we'll go look for him before dinner."
As mom drove the car slowly around their neighborhood, Zebb looked out the window. "I don't understand why he always wants to run away. Doesn't he know how much we love him?"
"He knows," Mom assured him. "Frank is just a dog who likes to run."
After thirty minutes of searching, Zebb was blinking back tears. Mom reached over and squeezed his hand. "You know what I always think of when Frank runs away and we have to go search for him?"
"What?" Zebb asked, swiping at tears with the back of his hand.
"I think of a parable Jesus told in the Bible about a shepherd who goes after one lost sheep. He drops everything to go and save the sheep, even leaving ninety-nine others behind to go search! And when he finds the sheep, he isn't angry. The shepherd rejoices! That's how God reacts when His children are found."
"I like that story," Zebb said. "It's nice to think that Jesus would search for me like I search for Frank."
Mom nodded. "Jesus is our Good Shepherd who came to earth and died to rescue us from sin. He loves us and will always come find us when we wander off."
As they continued searching for Frank, Zebb thought about God's love for him and how big it was. He also prayed that God would keep Frank safe, wherever he was.
A few minutes later Mom's phone rang. "Hello?" she said. "Oh, that's wonderful news, thank you. We'll be right there!" She hung up the phone and turned the car around. "That was one of our neighbors. They have Frank safe and sound at their house. Let's go get our boy!"
–Emily Tenter
How About You?
How does it make you feel to know that Jesus is the Good Shepherd who searches for His one lost sheep? Jesus is trustworthy. He died and rose again to save you from sin, and when you wander off and try to go your own way, He will come find you and offer you grace and forgiveness. He promises He will always love you and help you, no matter what. Rest in the great love He has for you.
Today's Key Verse:
If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not…look for the one that wandered off? (NIV) (Matthew 18:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus will come find you
Bible Reading: Colossians 3:12-15
"You brought my favorite board game!" exclaimed Hattie and Cleo's uncle when they came to visit him in the hospital. The girls happily set it up, and they were playing when a man entered the room. "Hi, Kyle," said Uncle Dale cheerfully. "Hattie, Cleo--meet Kyle Turner." The girls smiled and waved. "Kyle comes to see me every day and we read the Bible together," Uncle Dale explained.
"Don't let me interrupt you," said Kyle. "I have some errands to run. I'll come back in a little while."
"That's fine," said Uncle Dale. "Don't forget!"
"No chance!" Kyle called on his way out.
The girls were silent for a moment. "Kyle Turner," murmured Hattie. She frowned. "I know that name! He's the man who caused your accident, isn't he?" She looked at her uncle. "Why are you friends with him? It's his fault you can't walk!"
"I was really angry right after the accident," admitted Uncle Dale. "Then I read Colossians 3:13 during my devotions one day." He picked up his Bible from the bedside table. "Here, Cleo. Will you find that verse in my Bible?"
Cleo quickly found the verse. "Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you."
"Not too long after I read that verse, Kyle came to my room," said Uncle Dale. "I sure had a grievance against him! But he asked me to forgive him." Uncle Dale cleared his throat. "God helped me do that and used the accident to help both Kyle and me grow in our relationship with Jesus," he said quietly.
Hattie had tears in her eyes. "I just don't think I can forgive Kyle," she said. "Is there something wrong with me, Uncle Dale?"
"Nothing that God can't cure," her uncle assured her. "You love me and don't like to see me hurt--that's natural. Forgiving isn't always easy, but we can depend on Jesus for help. He forgave us for all our sins, and He gives us the power to forgive others, even when it's hard." Uncle Dale smiled. "I know--why don't you girls stay for my Bible study with Kyle? I'd like you to get to know him better."
The girls glanced at each other. "Well…okay," said Hattie, and Cleo nodded.
–Alyssa Liljequis
How About You?
Has someone hurt you so badly that you feel like you can't forgive them? Remember that you've done wrong things too, but if you trust Jesus as your Savior, He's forgiven you even though you don't deserve it. Show others the forgiveness that comes from Jesus by forgiving them when they hurt you.If you're struggling with the hurt someone has caused you, talk to a trusted adult.
Today's Key Verse:
Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. (NIV) (Colossians 3:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Forgive others as Christ forgave you
Bible Reading: Romans 14:7-13
Hattie lay on her bed in the dark, thinking about Uncle Dale. He was in the hospital, badly hurt. He might even die. "Cleo," she whispered, "are you asleep?"
"No," came the answer from the other bed. "I wish Mom and Dad would get home from the hospital."
"Dad said the driver of the other car was drunk." Hattie's voice broke. She sobbed softly. "It's not fair! Uncle Dale might die, and that other man is walking around perfectly okay."
When their parents finally arrived home, the girls were still awake. Dad came and knelt between their beds. "First," he said, "I want you to know that Uncle Dale is doing a little better. And I met the driver of the other car tonight. He's very sorry and upset."
"Well, he should be," said Cleo. "That man should be put in jail--forever!"
"He may have to go to jail," said Dad. "He told me he was a Christian, but--"
"I don't believe that!" Hattie interrupted.
"He said his friends talked him into drinking tonight," Dad continued. "He could have chosen not to drink and drive, but he didn't. Now he's very sorry, but he can't take back what happened. He knows he deserves to be punished."
"No Christian would do what he did," said Hattie.
"Christians sin, Hattie," Dad reminded her. "We all do things that are wrong, and people are affected by our actions whether we like to think so or not."
"I guess that's true," said Cleo. "Remember when my friend Sophie didn't want to come to Bible club with me at first? She said it was because Christians weren't any different from other people. She knew some Christian kids who lied and cheated on tests and did stuff like that just as much as other kids did."
Dad nodded. "Our sins don't just affect us--they affect others too. Sometimes they hurt someone else directly, like what happened to Uncle Dale when that man decided to drink and drive tonight. Other times they hurt others' perception of what it means to be a Christian. The good news is that Jesus promises to forgive our wrongs and help us do what's right. The next time you're tempted to do something you shouldn't, think of who else it might hurt besides you. Then trust God to help you make the right decision."
–Alyssa Liljequis
How About You?
Do you think your sin isn't hurting anyone? Every time you do something wrong, it affects others. Things like drugs, drunkenness, and stealing can ruin whole families. But things like lying, cheating, and laughing at others cause deep hurts too. Whenever you're tempted to do something wrong, trust God to help you do the right thing so your actions won't hurt others or yourself.
Today's Key Verse:
None of us lives for ourselves alone. (NIV) (Romans 14:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Your sin affects others
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:23–11:1
Devin was playing on his tablet when it suddenly went dark. "Mom," he called, "my time ran out. Can I please have more time? I want to finish building my defenses."
"Sorry, Devin," Mom answered. "You've had enough time on the tablet today."
"Please, Mom!" Devin begged, but Mom quietly shook her head no. Devin sighed. "Fine," he said. "I'll go see what Ellery's doing."
Devin found Ellery in the kitchen and quickly sneaked one of the delicious-looking deviled eggs she was making before she could stop him. As he started to swallow, he gagged on the egg and spit it out in the sink.
"Hey!" Ellery cried. "Don't be mean. I worked hard on those eggs."
"No, Maddy, I'm serious!" Devin exclaimed. "You try one." Ellery tried one and quickly spit hers out too. "They're so salty! I followed the recipe though. It said to put in a quarter cup of salt."
Devin looked at the recipe. "Ellery, you read it wrong. It only takes a quarter teaspoon of salt. No wonder they're so salty!"
The kids looked at each other. "Dad needs one!" They brought an egg to Dad, who eagerly took a bite, but couldn't swallow it. Then Ellery produced a bowl and a glass of water from behind her back, and Dad quickly spit the egg in the bowl and took a long drink of water.
After the kids' giggles quieted down, Dad said, "Devin, this egg reminds me of your conversation with Mom earlier. Just like the right amount of salt enhances the flavor of the eggs, your games can enhance your life and help you learn. But with too much salt, the eggs were ruined, and too many games on your tablet can be harmful to you."
"So it's possible to have too much of a good thing?" asked Devin.
Dad nodded. "Jesus loves us and set us free from sin, and He wants us to enjoy good, fun things in our lives. But we need to do them in moderation. If they keep us from doing other good things, like caring for others and spending time with them, it's too much. It might not look the same every time, but you can pray about it and ask God to help you make good decisions about how you spend your time." Dad winked. "And your parents are happy to help too."
–Myrical Barton
How About You?
When you find something you enjoy, do you spend all your time doing that one thing? God wants you to enjoy fun things in your life, but it's possible to have too much of a good thing. If something is causing you to neglect your responsibilities or your relationships with God, family, or friends, it's too much. Ask God to give you wisdom andto help you do the things you enjoy in moderation.
Today's Key Verse:
You say, "I am allowed to do anything"--but not everything is good for you. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 10:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Do things in moderation
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-34
Lilly loved volunteering at the animal shelter with Granddaddy in the summer. Chipper was her new favorite rescue dog. Every Saturday they came to walk, bathe, feed, and play with him.
Lilly brushed the knots out of Chipper's fur. "Hold still, Chipper!" she said. "There. He's ready for his bath. Do you have another dog treat?" Lilly asked her grandfather.
"Oops, they're all gone. Let me find some more," Granddaddy said.
Lilly hoped Granddaddy could find more treats. She thought about her empty fridge at home.
Granddaddy returned with a small bag in his hand. "Found some."
"Oh good. I don't want him to starve." Lilly's stomach rumbled.
"Sounds like someone else is hungry," Granddaddy said as he put Chipper into the bathtub.
"I'm okay." Lilly sighed. She remembered Mommy said they wouldn't have much this month. Mommy had to work two jobs now that Daddy left. Would they have everything they need?
"Did you know that God takes care of all the animals, even Chipper?" asked Granddaddy. He smiled at Lilly's questioning look. "God gives the birds worms to eat. He gives them trees and barns to live in. And he gave Chipper you!"
"He did. I love Chipper so much!" Lilly said as she rinsed the suds out of Chipper's fur.
"Did you know God loves you even more than you love Chipper?"
"He does?"
"He sure does. God gave us His Son, Jesus, so we could be saved from sin, and He wants to take care of you. I know things have been hard this month, Lilly. But don't worry. God gave you Mommy and me to take care of you because He loves you. God also gives us people who help by bringing food to share with others, like at church and food pantries."
"God gave us people to share their food?" Lilly turned off the water.
"That's right! He takes care of us because He loves us so much."
Chipper jumped out of the bathtub and shook. Water flew all over Lilly and Granddaddy.
Lilly laughed. "And I love taking care of Chipper!"
–Jennifer Wilson
How About You?
Do you worry about having everything you need? Maybe a parent has lost a job or your parents divorced, and things are tough. If you know Jesus, God is your heavenly Father, and He promises to take care of His children. God provides for our needs in many different ways, such as through family and friends, people at church, and even places like food pantries. If you have a need, talk to God about it. Then trust Him to provide for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Don't worry about tomorrow, because tomorrow will worry about itself. (CSB) (Matthew 6:34)
Today's Key Thought:
God takes care of us
Bible Reading: Romans 3:21-24
Several old picture albums and many loose photographs were scattered over the living room floor. "I'd like to rearrange our albums with captions above the pictures," explained Mom when Greta and Marnie asked what she was doing. "You can sort these photos and see if you can come up with something to write about them."
"Okay." Greta reached for a picture. "'Lifeguard blows whistle at Marnie' will be great for this one. This was the time we were at the beach and the lifeguard yelled at you for disobeying the rules, Marnie. Remember?"
Marnie rolled her eyes and picked up another photo. "Look at this picture of our Thanksgiving dinner last year. The food looks yummy!"
"The caption for that could say, 'Give thanks for food--if there's any left,'" said Greta with a grin. "I remember you tried to grab the gravy before anyone else and it splattered all over the floor." She picked up another photo and laughed. "Look at this one, Marnie. You're pouting in this snapshot. We could call it--"
"Will you stop bringing up all the bad things I've done!" Marnie said angrily. "You're no angel yourself, you know. In fact, you can really be a pain sometimes!"
"Well, none of these pictures remind you of bad things about me," Greta said smugly.
"That's because you're two-faced. You smile for the camera so everyone thinks you're so sweet and good, and then you do something bad when no one's looking!"
Mom picked up two photos. "In these pictures I see not one but two sinful little girls."
"Mom! Those are our baby pictures," said Greta. "You can't find anything bad about a baby."
"You look sweet enough," Mom agreed. "But every single baby is born a sinner--no one is better than anyone else. The Bible says we're all sinners from the moment we're born." She looked at the girls. "It doesn't matter what you see in any of these pictures--the Bible is the only thing you need to look at to know you're both sinners. But the Bible is also a picture of God's love for you. Jesus died for our sins so we could be saved, and He doesn't take snapshots of the bad things we do. Whenever we do something wrong, we can confess our sin and He will forgive us."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Do you ever think you're not as sinful as someone else? The Bible says we're all equally sinful--we've all chosen to follow our selfish hearts instead of doing what is good. But sin can be forgiven through Jesus Christ, who died to take the punishment we deserve. Have you admitted that you're a sinner and trusted Jesus to forgive you? If not, do it today! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
There is no one who does what is good, not even one. (CSB) (Romans 3:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Everyone has sinned
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-2, 8-10
One day when Nathan and his dad were shopping, an elderly man walked up to them. "Excuse me," the man said. "My name is Bill Cook. I've been watching the two of you, and I can't help but notice how much both of you look like someone I went to school with years ago. His name was Nathan Nobel. Are you related to him?"
"That's my name, and my dad's too!" Nathan grinned. "Dad is Nathan Nobel Jr., and I'm Nathan Nobel the third," he added proudly. "But you look too old to have been in school with my dad."
The two men laughed. "Nathan, I think this gentleman is talking about your grandfather," explained Dad.
Mr. Cook nodded. "I just knew you must be related," he said after they had talked a few minutes. "Your boy here, with his red hair and freckles, looks very much like Nate did in grammar school. You both walk and talk like him too."
After Mr. Cook left, Dad smiled at Nathan. "I consider it a real compliment to have been recognized as my father's son," he said. "I've always admired my dad very much, and I guess I've copied his ways more than I realized. I'm really proud to be just like Dad."
"Yeah--that was amazing!" Nathan said. "Mr. Cook hasn't seen Grandpa in years, and yet he recognized how much we were like him."
Dad looked at him thoughtfully. "There's someone else we should be like, Nathan," he said. "The Bible says we should be imitators of God. People watch our actions and hear our words, and they should be able to tell that God is our Father."
"But God is perfect, and He can do all kinds of miracles," Nathan pointed out. "We can't be exactly like Him."
"That's true," said Dad. "But if we remember that we're God's children and that He's given us the Holy Spirit to work in our lives and make us more like Jesus, it will help us show His love, forgiveness, and kindness to others. Then some people will say, 'There goes a child of God.'"
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Have you ever been told that you look, sound, or act like one of your parents? Can people also tell by watching you that you're a child of God? If you do and say the same things Jesus would if He were on earth today, others will recognize you as one of God's children. Trust Him to help you show others the love of Jesus so they will be able to tell that you are God's child.
Today's Key Verse:
Be imitators of God as dear children. (NKJV) (Ephesians 5:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Be like your heavenly Father
Bible Reading: Psalm 104:24-31; 2 Corinthians 5:17
"Sara! Lauren!" Mom said as she walked into the twins' bedroom. "Mimi called and said the baby chicks are going to be hatching in a couple days. She invited you both to the farm for the weekend."
Sara and Lauren jumped up and down with excitement. They loved going out to Mimi and Pop's farm. "I can't wait to see the baby chicks hatch!" Sara said.
When the twins arrived at their grandparents' farm that weekend, they eagerly followed Mimi and Pop to the barn to see the incubator set up in the feed room. When they looked inside it, Sara and Lauren counted twelve eggs.
"The eggs have to sit in the incubator for twenty-one days and then the chicks will begin to hatch," Pop explained. "Tomorrow will be twenty-one days."
"We'll get up early tomorrow and see if any of the chicks have started hatching," Mimi said.
The next morning after breakfast, the twins took off for the barn with Mimi following behind them. Pop was already out feeding some of the animals and met them at the gate.
"Good morning! Are you ready to watch some chicks hatch?" he asked.
"Yes!" the twins yelled.
Lauren and Sara peeked inside the incubator. They could hear soft peeping noises, and some of the eggs were starting to move. Before long, they saw a few little beaks and then little wet heads peeking out.
It took several hours, but by the time the twins and their grandparents had finished dinner, all the chicks had hatched. Once the chicks had fully dried off, Pop removed them from the incubator and placed them in a little pen so Sara and Lauren could hold them.
"Isn't God's creation wonderful?" said Mimi. "Whenever I see new life, I'm reminded of Psalm 104:24, which says, 'O Lord, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures.'"
"I sure am glad God made little chicks," Lauren said as she gently ran a finger over the baby chick in her hand.
"Me too," said Sara. "They're so cute!"
Mimi smiled. "I'm glad God made us too--and gives us new life through Jesus."
–Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you ever stopped and really looked at God's wonderful creation? Next time you take a walk in nature, take time to notice how beautifully God made everything. He cares about His creation--especially you! He created you, and Jesus died and rose again to save you and give you new life. Let the amazing world and creatures He's created remind you of His love.
Today's Key Verse:
The heavens proclaim the glory of God. The skies display his craftsmanship. (NLT) (Psalm 19:1)
Today's Key Thought:
God made everything
Bible Reading: Isaiah 53:5-6; 64:6; Ephesians 2:8-9
After placing dishes full of fragrant food on the table, Sunita sat down and sighed. "What's wrong, my love?" Mummy asked after they thanked God for their meal.
"Last week I made a plan to do a good deed every day. Or at least not a bad one. I wrote myself a note to remind me," Sunita explained.
"That's nice, but why do you look gloomy?" Mummy asked.
"Because it's the end of the day, and I haven't done a good deed. And I got mad at my friends playing cricket today. I yelled at Anaya and said that I was leaving if I didn't get a turn as the wicketkeeper." Sunita's chin trembled. "I couldn't keep my plan for even one week!"
Mummy scooped a serving of chicken tikka masala onto Sunita's plate. Then she took her daughter's hands in her own. "Sunita, remember last summer when you gave your life to Jesus?"
Sunita nodded. "Yes, I wanted to be right with God, so I confessed that I'm a sinner and asked Jesus to forgive me. Because He died for me. But why do you ask?"
"Why did Jesus die for you, my dear?" Mummy asked.
"Because somebody had to pay for my sins. Jesus died in my place so I can have eternal life."
"That's right, Sunita! We can't keep our own standards, as you have seen. And we certainly can't keep God's standards. That's why we need Jesus. We cannot pay for our wrongs by doing good deeds or by avoiding bad ones. The only way we can have a relationship with God is to receive the gift of forgiveness through His Son."
Sunita took a bite of food and smiled. "So, even if I miss a day of good deeds, or get angry at my friends, I'll still have God's forgiveness?"
"Yes, once we have trusted in Jesus for forgiveness, we don't lose it," Mummy assured her. "We will still do wrong things, but He will always forgive our wrongs, and He'll also help us do good things that show others His love. But our good deeds don't to anything to make us right with God--Jesus did that for us."
"I'll write another note," Sunita announced. "It will remind me to do good deeds--but to remember that Jesus did the best one of all."
–Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Do you wonder if you've done enough good works to please God or fear you have too many sins for Him to forgive? Forgiveness and eternal life come only through Jesus, who died to take the punishment for all our sins. We can't earn forgiveness by doing nice things or avoiding bad choices. Knowing God is a gift that becomes ours when we accept it by trusting in Jesus. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith--and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God. (NIV) (Ephesians 2:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Forgiveness comes only through Jesus
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
"We're harvesting tomatoes today!" Aunt Micki said when Landon and Baleigh arrived. She handed them each a basket. "Be careful to only pick the red ones--the green ones aren't ready yet."
Baleigh was excited to help in the garden, but Landon sighed as he started picking tomatoes. He'd wanted to stay home by himself while his parents were gone for the day, but they'd said no.
Landon looked over at his sister. "Baleigh," he exclaimed, "don't pick the green ones!"
"Let's see, Baleigh," Aunt Micki said as she came to look at what the youngest had picked. "Hmm…those tomatoes are too green. But that's okay. With a little TLC, we'll still be able to use them."
"What's TLC?" Landon asked.
"TLC is tender, loving care. Come on inside and I'll show you!" Aunt Micki led them into the house. "Baleigh, bring me a paper bag from the hall closet."
Aunt Micki placed Baleigh's tomatoes in the bag and closed the top. "After being in this closed bag for a few days, these tomatoes will ripen," she explained. "Without it they wouldn't continue to ripen and would never taste good."
Aunt Micki looked at Landon. "That's true with our lives too," she said. "I know it's hard to wait to do more grown-up things sometimes, but you're not ready for them yet. When we try to do them too soon, we can miss out on some of the blessings and growth we would have had along the way. God wants us to wait for the right time to do things, and for kids that means listening to your parents and doing what they say--they know when it might be too soon for you to do something."
"But you're going to be able to use these tomatoes after they have some TLC, aren't you?" asked Baleigh.
"Yes!" said Aunt Micki. "And even when we insist on doing things our own way instead of listening to God, Jesus offers us forgiveness, and He will give us TLC to help us through the consequences our disobedience may cause. But waiting for His timing in the first place is always the best thing, just like ripening on the vine would have been best for these tomatoes."
–Myrical Barton
How About You?
Are you content to wait for some things until your parents feel you are ready? Or do you wish they'd let you do them now? Don't try to grow up too quickly. Just like tomatoes need time to grow before being harvested, you need time to grow before you do certain things. Ask God to help you be content with the things you can do now, knowing you can trust His tender, loving care.
Today's Key Verse:
To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven. (NKJV) (Ecclesiastes 3:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Wait for God's timing
Bible Reading: Psalm 1:1-6
"We did a fun thing in science today," Haneul told his mom as he packed his suitcase for a weekend with his grandparents. "We had to get into groups and decide which items we would include in our survival kit if we were taking a trip to the moon. Our teacher gave us a list of twenty things, and we had to choose eight of them for our kit."
"Did everyone agree on the same items?" asked Mom.
Haneul shook his head. "One boy in my group kept insisting that we take a compass. What good would that do on the moon? It doesn't have a magnetic field like Earth does. And chocolate wasn't even on the list! How could anyone survive without chocolate?"
Mom laughed. "You and your chocolate."
"There were a lot of foods we couldn't take, so I thought we should take vitamins," Haneul continued. "Otherwise we might not get all the stuff we need to stay healthy." He added a couple of things to his suitcase and closed it. "There! I'm done."
"Did you pack pajamas?" asked Mom.
"Of course!" Haneul answered.
"Toothbrush?" Mom wanted to know.
"Yep," said Haneul. "Don't forget, Mom--I worked on a survival kit at school today. I'm a pro at packing now!"
"What about daily nutrition?" Mom asked.
Haneul laughed. "I don't need to take any food with me--or vitamins. Grandma will make sure I eat well!"
"I was actually referring to a different kind of nutrition," Mom told him. "You need spiritual food wherever you are, and the Bible is a place to get that. The Holy Spirit uses it to nourish our hearts and remind us of Jesus's love, grace, and promises."
Haneul looked at the Bible on his bedside table. "Okay. I'll take it." He picked it up, opened his suitcase, and made room for it. "But even if I didn't take it along, I'm sure Grandpa and Grandma would make sure I got spiritual food. They go to church and talk about Jesus a lot."
"Yes, but it's good to read the Bible for yourself too." Mom smiled. "It probably wasn't on your list at school, but it would also be a good thing to have on the moon!"
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Would you include a Bible in a survival kit for the moon? Is it a regular part of your life now? It's easy to remember the food our physical bodies need, but you need spiritual food too. Feed your mind with spiritual truth by reading the Bible and learning about what it says at church. Then trust God to use it to nourish you spiritually and help you apply what it says to your life.
Today's Key Verse:
People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God. (NLT) (Matthew 4:4)
Today's Key Thought:
Be nourished by God Word
Bible Reading: Luke 11:5-10
"Coco, not now, I'm busy," Laney said as she turned a page in her book.
But Laney's chocolate-colored cat continued to scratch on the door, wanting to go outside. Coco loved to chase the birds and butterflies and lounge on the porch swing, and she wouldn't stop scratching until someone let her out.
"Coco, I've got to say, you sure are persistent, and it usually works," Laney said when she finally got up to open the door.
Coco darted outside and jumped up onto the porch swing. Laney laughed and sat down beside her to continue reading.
"Are you enjoying your book?" asked Mom a little later when they were having lunch. "When do you have to turn in your book report?"
"The book report is due on Tuesday, and the book is pretty good. Coco had a great idea for a reading spot too--we both ended up on the porch swing when Coco wouldn't stop scratching on the door to go outside. I guess her persistence paid off for both of us!"
Mom smiled. "That makes me think of a story in the Bible." She took her Bible from the shelf and read a few verses that talked about how praying was like asking a friend for bread over and over until it's given to you.
"Jesus was teaching the disciples how to pray and wanted to show them the importance of being persistent," Mom explained. "We need to be persistent in prayer. God wants us to keep on asking and expecting Him to answer. He loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us, and He wants us to come to Him with our wants, needs, and concerns. Coco was persistent until she got what she needed--or should I say wanted--and that's the kind of persistence we need to have when we pray, knowing that God hears us and will always answer with what is best."
"The next time Coco keeps scratching at the door, I'll remember that's how God wants me to come to Him with my needs and concerns," Laney said as she helped her mom clear the table. When they finished, Laney grabbed her book. "Come on, Coco. Let's go on out to the porch swing."
–Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you ever wondered why prayer is important? Prayer is a way to get to know God better. As we communicate our wants, needs, and concerns to Him, He gives us His peace and helps us learn to trust Him. He wants us to boldly bring our requests to Him in prayer again and again, knowing that He will answer--even if it's in a different way than we're asking. Pray persistently, and trust God to answer in the way He knowsis best.
Today's Key Verse:
Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. (NLT) (Colossians 4:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Be persistent in prayer
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 31:6-8; Psalm 139:7-10
Ava lay on the sofa, her face pale, her bald head a circle against the pillow. Medical treatments had caused her hair to fall out. Her grandmother looked over just as Ava dabbed a tear from her eye. "What's wrong, honey?" asked Grandma. "Not feeling so good today?"
"I'm scared," replied Ava in a trembling voice. "It seems like God has gone away. Ever since I got sick, it feels as if He isn't here at all."
Grandma squeezed Ava's hand. "It may feel like that, but God promises to always be with us. Sometimes it's hard to keep praying and trusting Him, but we need to do that." She sat down beside Ava. "The way you feel isn't surprising though. It reminds me of something that happened to me when I was little."
"Were you sick too?" asked Ava.
"Yes," Grandma said. "I was once very sick with the flu. My mother had given me medicine at bedtime and stayed with me until I fell asleep. But then, in the middle of the night, I woke up in the dark. My head throbbed, and my throat was so sore that I couldn't call out to my parents down the hall. I was too weak to get out of bed, so I just lay there crying, thinking I was all alone. But then a light switched on, and there was my mother, right beside me. She had been sleeping in a chair next to my bed the whole time!"
"So, God is still here with me even though it feels like I'm all alone?" asked Ava.
Grandma nodded. "My mother slept in that chair all night so she could stay with me, but Jesus did much more than that to be with you, Ava--He left heaven and came to earth as a baby, and when He grew up, He died for your sins so you could live with Him forever. Even though being sick may make it seem like He's far away, He's not. He promises us in the Bible that He won't ever leave us. He's with you every moment, giving you strength and comfort."
Ava was thoughtful. "Can you show me that verse in the Bible?" she asked after a moment. "I want to read it for myself."
–Violet E. Nesdoly
How About You?
Have you ever felt like God has forgotten you? When you're sick, your parent loses their job, your friend moves away, or your family splits up, it's easy to think He doesn't care and has left you on your own. But even if you don't feel God's presence, the Bible says He is near to those who know Jesus. He is always with you,no matter how you feel.
Today's Key Verse:
He [God] himself has said, "I will never leave you or abandon you." (CSB) (Hebrews 13:5 )
Today's Key Thought:
God is always with you
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:35-40
Hearing his mom scream, Jeffery dropped his game controller and ran to the kitchen. He found her with a cabinet's contents spread on the counter before her. "Mom, what's wrong?"
"Oh, Jeffery, I didn't mean to scare you. Your mother is simply losing her mind. I know I bought a box of chocolate chip cookies last week. Now, when I want one, I can't find them. They've got to be here somewhere," Mom said as she started emptying another cabinet.
Jeffery bit his lip. "Mom, I took them," he confessed.
"You? Jeffery, you don't like chocolate chip cookies! I seriously doubt you ate a whole box of them. Now your dad, he could eat a whole box. Maybe that's where they went."
"No, Mom," Jeffery repeated, "I took them. You're right, I don't like them, but Russ does."
"Russ from school?" asked Mom as she sat down at the table. "How did Russ get our cookies?"
"Remember when I told you about Russ's family? It's just his little brother and his mom, he doesn't have a dad. Well, Russ told me that his mom works two jobs but there's still not any extra money for snacks. At snack time at school, Russ would act as if he didn't want a snack and just read. But, Mom, looking at him while I ate made my snack taste lousy," said Jeffery with a grimace. "So, I started putting two snacks in my bag and offered one to Russ. I'm sorry I took your cookies without asking."
"Jeffery," Mom said as she stood and gave him a hug, "I don't care about that. What you did for Russ was a wonderful thing. In fact, the Bible says that when we share our food with those who are hungry, it's as if we shared with Jesus."
"For real?" asked Jeffery.
"For real. Jesus loves us all so much that He gave His life to save us. When we care about others the way He does and make sacrifices for them, He counts our loving actions as being done for Him." Mom smiled. "You know, I really do want a chocolate chip cookie. Come with me to the store so you can pick out snacks that both you and Russ would like," she said with a wink.
–Phyllis Johnson
How About You?
Have you done something kind for someone in need? Maybe you helped serve food to the homeless or invited the new kid at school to play with you. Jesus tells us in the Bible that when we do kind and generous things for others, we do them for Him. Think of all the good things the Lord has done for you. Then look for ways to give to Jesus today by showing someone His kindness and generosity.
Today's Key Verse:
Truly I [Jesus] tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me. (NIV) (Matthew 25:40)
Today's Key Thought:
Give to Jesus through others
Bible Reading: Isaiah 52:7-10; Romans 10:13-17
"I hate my feet!" said Madison. "They're too big."
"They are not!" replied Emory, her older sister. "You're tall, so you need bigger feet
to move around and hold you up." She grinned. "I think your feet are beautiful."
Madison laughed. "Thanks. I wish everyone felt that way. Sometimes kids make fun of my feet."
"Well, just because some people think smaller feet are more beautiful doesn't mean they're right," said Emory. "But I know their words can still hurt--and people's opinions can also be hurtful in other ways. People in China once thought only small feet were beautiful too, and girls' feet were wrapped up so tight that they couldn't grow."
Madison frowned. "Did they really do that?"
"Yeah, a long time ago," Emory said. "It was very painful, and girls weren't able to use their feet the way they were supposed to. A book I read told a story about a Chinese woman who had her feet bound when she was very young, and they hardly grew at all. When she was older, she had to be carried to lots of places because her feet were too delicate to walk over rough or uneven ground."
Madison's eyes widened. "That's horrible!"
Emory nodded. "But you know what? The woman in that story eventually learned that her feet were beautiful not because of their size but for another reason."
"Really?" asked Madison. "What was it?"
"Well," said Emory, "the woman became a Christian. After she got married, she and her husband became missionaries to their own people--the Chinese."
"And?" prompted Madison when Emory paused.
"Don't you see? This woman was using her feet to spread the good news of Jesus, and the Bible says that people who do that have beautiful feet!" Emory explained.
"Where in the Bible does it say that?" Madison wanted to know.
"Somewhere in Romans," said Emory. "The point is, using your feet to go tell others about Jesus makes them beautiful. God gave us feet so we could use them, and the best way to do that is to go into the world and share the message that Jesus died for our sins so we could have peace with God."
Madison looked at her feet again and smiled. "Then I want to have big, beautiful feet!"
–Jean A. Burns
How About You?
How do you feel about your feet? Do you think they're beautiful? Your feet were created with care by God, and He wants you to use them. When you carry the good news of Jesus to others and share the message of the wonderful gift He offers to anyone who trusts in Him, you are using your feet to help people know they can be saved and have eternal life. And the Bible says that makes your feet beautiful!
Today's Key Verse:
How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace. (NKJV) (Romans 10:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Tell others about Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 91
Natia and Lexi sat in the grass waiting for the bus. Lexi was quiet this morning; she had something
on her mind.
"What are you thinking about?" Natia asked.
Lexi looked up. "I was just thinking about a conversation I had with my mom yesterday. She
talked to me about something called a safety network. She seemed pretty serious about it."
Natia looked confused. "What's a safety network?"
"It's a list of five people that I trust, like my mom, my dad, our teacher Mrs. Schenk, my aunt, and my grandma. Those are the people I can talk to about anything. Mom says that if anyone ever says or does anything to me that makes me feel uncomfortable, I can always go talk to the people in my safety network."
"That's a good idea!" said Natia. "It's good to have a plan in case anything scary ever happens."
Lexi nodded her agreement. "Do you remember last summer when our moms took us to the circus? That man walking the tightrope had a safety net underneath him. That way, even if something scary happened, he knew he'd be safe. Mom said a safety network is kind of like that." Lexi picked some grass and rubbed it between her fingers. "Talking to my mom about it also made me thankful for God's safety net."
"What do you mean?" asked Natia.
"Well, when my mom and I were talking, we read a chapter in the Bible about how God is our protector and that we can always trust Him. Jesus died to save us from the scariest thing of all--eternity without God--and He promises to be with us when scary things happen. Mom said one of the ways He helps us is through people we can trust, like those in our safety network." Lexi reached into her backpack and pulled out her little Bible. "Here, I put a bookmark in it--it's in Psalms."
They both stood up when they heard the bus rumbling closer. Lexi turned and waved to her mom, who had been watching them from the porch.
"You're right, Lexi," Natia said after she read the passage in Lexi's Bible on the way to school. "It makes me feel good knowing God has given me a safety net!"
- Emily Tenter
How About You?
Do you have a safety network--a list of people you can talk to about anything? Having a safety network is very important. If you don't have one, talk to your mom, dad, or other adult you trust about who should be in it. And remember that God is first on your list! If you know Jesus, He promises to be with you all the time. Go to Him when things in your life get scary and trust Him to help you.
Today's Key Verse:
He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust. (NIV) (Psalm 91:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Have a safety network
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:13-14; Jeremiah 1:5
"Hey, watch it!" Kole poked his twin brother with the end of his broom. "You're stepping in my dirt pile!"
"Whoops," said Zeke. "Sorry." He took a few steps back and began sweeping the opposite side of the garage. "I can't believe I'm sweeping dust bunnies on a beautiful Saturday afternoon instead of playing baseball," he said with a groan.
"Yeah," said Kole, wiping sweat from his forehead. "And I'm missing Jackson's party." He sighed. "I hate being grounded."
"Me too," said Zeke. "Switching places to take each other's tests was a dumb idea."
As Kole wheeled the garbage can to the end of the driveway, Mrs. Dawson, the mom of one of the boys in Zeke's class, walked by. "Hi, Zeke!" she called out.
"Um, hi--I'm Kole, actually."
"Oh, right--sorry!" said Mrs. Dawson. "Sometimes I forget Zeke has a twin."
Kole sighed as he walked into the kitchen where Zeke and Mom were pouring lemonade. "What's the matter?" asked Mom.
Kole shrugged. "Nothing. Someone outside just thought I was Zeke."
"Hey, congratulations!" said Zeke, raising his glass of lemonade.
"Ha ha," said Kole sarcastically. He looked at Mom. "It just gets irritating sometimes--people thinking I'm someone else."
Mom nodded. "Yes, Dad and I knew that would happen to you boys. That's why we put you in different classes at school--so you could develop your own identities and friendships apart from each other." She took a sip of lemonade. "Of course, we never thought you'd switch places to get out of taking tests in classes you didn't like."
The boys looked at the floor. "Yeah--sorry about that," said Zeke.
"Well," said Mom, "you didn't fool me. Your faces may look the same to everyone else, but I can see the subtle differences in your noses and chins and freckles. More than that, you have completely different personalities!" She smiled. "I see each of you for who you are. And you know what? God does too. He created you so you could know and reflect Jesus in your own special way. He made each of you unique, with your own interests and abilities."
"Yeah," said Kole. "Like me being good at English and Zeke at math."
"Exactly," said Mom. She ruffled Kole's hair. "But that doesn't mean you can have Zeke take your math tests."
- Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Did you know God made you just the way you are? You were created to be you and no one else! He gave you your unique personality and your abilities and gifts. Thank Him for making you who you are, and trust Him to help you reflect the love of Jesus and point people to Him in a way nobody else can.
Today's Key Verse:
will praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. (NKJV) (Psalm 139:14)
Today's Key Thought:
God made you who you are
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:1-6, 23-24; Hebrews 4:13-16
"Okay, remember the plan," Zeke told his twin brother Kole as they traded sweatshirts in the bathroom. "Try not to talk to anyone before the test. Once the tests are finished it'll be lunchtime and we can meet back here to trade our sweatshirts back."
Kole nodded as he combed his fingers through his hair to get it to look more like Zeke's. They were in different classes at school, and Kole was going to take the English test in Zeke's class while Zeke took the math test in his. "I sure hope no one notices I'm not you," said Kole. "If I had to take that math test, I'd flunk it!"
"Yeah, and I hate English," said Zeke. "All that writing!"
Kole walked into his brother's classroom just as the bell rang. Mr. Edwards handed out the test, and Kole got to work.
Everything went smoothly until someone knocked on the door. Mr. Edwards cracked it open and, after a few whispers, turned toward the class. "Zeke, your mom is here with your lunch. You can go with her and put it in your locker."
Kole broke out in a cold sweat. He trudged over to the door, and the moment Mom saw him, it was obvious she knew he wasn't Zeke.
Kole stepped into the hall and shut the door behind him. Mom was furious.
"What's going on?" she hissed. "Why are you pretending to be Zeke?"
Kole couldn't look her in the eye. "We switched places so I could take his English test and he could take my math test."
Mom stared at him. "Well, you may have fooled your teachers and classmates, but you didn't fool me--I know you too well. And aren't you forgetting someone who knows you even better than I do?"
"Umm…" stammered Kole. "You mean God, don't you?"
Mom nodded. "The Bible says He knows the number of hairs on your head--and everything that's in your heart. You can't hide anything from Him."
Kole shuffled his feet. "I guess Zeke and I didn't think of that."
"I guess not," said Mom. "But I hope you'll remember it from now on. Jesus knows everything about you, and He loves you and promises to forgive your wrongs. We can always be honest with Him--and trust Him to help us be honest with others too."
- Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Have you ever thought you could get away with something without anyone knowing? Even if you managed to hide it from other people, you can't hide anything from God--He sees everything you do and knows everything in your heart and mind. Don't try to hide anything from Him. Instead, tell Jesus what you've done and ask Him to forgive you. He knows you and loves you, and He promises to forgive.
Today's Key Verse:
People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. (NLT) (Proverbs 28:13 )
Today's Key Thought:
You can't hide anything from God
Bible Reading: Romans 12:3-8; 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Dad put on his apron. "Well, my little chefs, are you ready to make our delicious pizza?"
Piper and Jerrie smiled. "Yes!"
"Okay, Piper, while Jerrie is rolling the dough, you start preparing the toppings."
"Okay, Dad. Hmm, let's see what we have here. Cheese, no. Sausage, no. Meatballs, no. Um, pepperoni will work."
Jerrie grinned at her sister. "Piper, you can't just pick pepperoni for our pizza. We need other ingredients too, like mushrooms."
Piper made a face. "No way! We're not having gross vegetables on our pizza."
"Mushrooms are not gross vegetables!" said Jerrie.
Dad stopped stirring his secret tomato sauce. "You know, having just one topping on our pizza reminds me of what Paul said in the Bible."
"Where does Paul talk about food in the Bible?" asked Piper.
"Actually, in multiple places, but this one isn't about food. In First Corinthians, Paul asks the believers, 'If the whole body were an ear, where would the sense of smell be?'"
Jerrie stopped rolling the dough. "That's a silly question. The body needs all its parts for it to smell, hear, and see. If my body was just an ear, all I'd be able to do is hear."
Dad smiled. "Even though it may seem like a silly question, Paul was trying to make a point. He was saying that everyone is important in the body of Christ, no matter what God has called you to do--whether you're a pastor, a postman, or two amazing pizza chefs."
Piper opened the fridge. "I thought just teachers and pastors were important in the body of Christ."
Dad shook his head. "Nope! Jesus has made everyone who knows Him part of His body, the church, and has given each of us a special role in it. As we work together and love one another, others can see Jesus in us."
Piper took some mushrooms out of the fridge. "So, I guess we shouldn't let our pizza turn in to one big eyeball of pepperoni."
A while later Mummy came into the kitchen. "Mmm, something smells good."
Piper smiled "It's our pizza. It has lots of toppings."
Jerrie nodded as she took a slice. "Like the body of Christ."
Piper held out her plate. "Daddy, can I have a slice with mushrooms?"
- Charis-Zoe Ademosu
How About You?
Do you know that you're important in the body of Christ? It's true. It doesn't matter how young you are or what God has called you to do--you are important to Him. He says all of us are valuable and precious to Him--so precious that Jesus gave His life to save us--and we all have a special role in pointing others to His love. If you know Jesus, you are an important part of His body of believers.
Today's Key Verse:
You are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. (NIV) (1 Corinthians 12:27)
Today's Key Thought:
You are important in Christ's body
Bible Reading: Luke 6:47-49
"Better hurry up and build a wall around your castle,Tess! The tide is coming in," said Beckham. "One big wave and it'll be washed away."
"Will you help me? Please?" begged Tess, handing her brother a pail and shovel. Water washed around her feet and then went back toward the ocean, just missing the castle.
"I told you to build it farther from the water," said Beckham as he added a pailful of damp sand to the wall. "We won't be able to save it. Those waves are coming up fast!"
Beckham was right. There was no time to protect the castle. Waves washed up on shore, and a big chunk from the front side of the castle washed back into the sea. A shovel Tess had dropped beside the castle was carried along with it. "My shovel!" exclaimed Tess. She chased after it into the water.
Beckham shook his head. "That castle is history." Tess frowned as she stood looking at her destroyed masterpiece. "Your castle looked awesome, but you built it in a place where it couldn't stand up against the rising water," said Beckham. He grinned. "Just like the foolish man!"
"Huh?" said Tess. "What foolish man?"
"You know," said Beckham. "The one in the story Jesus told about the two men who built houses. The wise man built his house on rock, but the foolish man built his on sand and it got washed away. Then Jesus said to be like the wise man and build your life on the rock."
Mom smiled as she listened. "And how do you do that?" she asked.
"By admitting that you're a sinner and trusting Jesus to save you," said Beckham. "When you do that, He becomes the one you build your life on."
Mom nodded. "Right. The Bible refers to Jesus as the Rock. When you build your life on Him, you're building on a firm, stable foundation, just like the wise man in the story. Building your life on anything else--like money or fun or what other people think of you--is like building a castle in the sand. It all gets washed away."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Are you building your life on the Rock or on sand? Is your life centered on having lots of money or fun or friends? Or are you standing firm in the love of Jesus, no matter what life brings you? The world says having a good life means getting everything you want, but the Bible says the only way to truly have life is through Jesus. Are you building your life on Him? If not, trust in Him today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
No one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have--Jesus Christ. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 3:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Build your life on Jesus
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:14-29
"C'mon, Rocket," Gemma called to her dog. "Let's go outside." When she opened the back door, Rocket raced out into the fenced yard. Then he ran back to Gemma. He jumped up playfully before racing through the yard once again. Finally, he stopped near his favorite bush and sniffed the ground. "Here, Rocket," Gemma
said, picking up a ball. Rocket continued to sniff out the area, then dug into the ground with his front paws and nose. Gemma walked over and saw that he had uncovered a bone. He lay down and began chewing on it contentedly. "Silly dog," Gemma said, shaking her head.
A short time later, they went back into the house. "Rocket dug up a bone and chewed it a while, and then he buried it again," Gemma told her mom. "Why do dogs bury bones?"
"I don't really know," replied Mom.
"You're so silly, Rocket," Gemma told her pet. "When I get something good, I don't hide it!"
"Are you sure about that?" asked Mom. "I think there are things we often use for ourselves and then hide away when we're done--kind of like Rocket."
"There are?" Gemma frowned. "Like what? I can't think of anything."
"Well, the Bible says we all have different gifts that come from the Lord," Mom explained. "Some of those gifts are things like money or possessions, and others are talents and abilities. Sometimes we think of those gifts as things that are just for us, but the Bible says they're not just for our benefit--we're meant to share
them with others."
"So, keeping those things to ourselves would be like Rocket burying his bone in the yard?" asked Gemma.
Mom nodded. "God wants us to use what He's given us to help build His kingdom and point people to Him. God's best gift of all is the one He gave the whole world--Jesus, who died for our sins and is coming back one day to reign forever as King. The gifts and blessings we have in our lives all come from Him, and
He wants us to use them to share His love with others."
Gemma smiled as she stroked Rocket's fur. "Then we can enjoy our gifts more too if we share them instead of hiding them away."
--Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
What gifts has God given you that you can share with others? Perhaps you can sing, draw, or think of fun games to play with little kids. Maybe you have a big backyard or a treehouse your friends would love to play in. God gives people all kinds of gifts, and when you share a gift He's given you with others, you're pointing them to Him. So don't keep your gifts all to yourself--use them to show others the love of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
As each one has received a gift, use it to serve others. (CSB) (1 Peter 4:10 )
Today's Key Thought:
Share your gifts with others
Bible Reading: Philippians 2:14-16; 1 Peter 2:9-12
"But I don't want to wear mismatched shoes, Kassi," Brooke informed her best friend. The two girls were sitting together while riding the bus for a class field trip. During the drive, Kassi shared with Brooke how she longed to be unique--to stand out from the crowd and be different. But Brooke thought Kassi's idea about
how to showcase her personal style went too far.
"If you wear one of my shoes, and I wear one of yours, we'll be wearing one of each. We're the same size, you know. Two different shoes--that's totally being different!" Kassi seemed so excited.
"Sorry, Kassi." Brooke shook her head.
That evening at home, Kassi talked with her grandfather on the phone and explained her goal of being different. "Grandpa, I don't want to be just like everybody else; I want to be uniquely me. You know, the individual God created."
"God did a great job of making you, Kassi! And I know He is pleased with you. Simply being different isn't always better though," Grandpa answered.
Kassi thought about this as Grandpa continued. "Last summer, you gave your life to Jesus, remember? You put your trust in Him, who died for us, for the forgiveness of your sins. Now, as His child, you are called to be different--but not so much when it comes to the shoes you wear."
"What do you mean?" Kassi asked.
"God wants His people to be set apart, dedicated to Him. God desires for you to be different in your character, your love for Him and others, and your obedience to Him. That matters much more to Him than how you dress," Grandpa replied.
"I get it, Grandpa. Since I belong to God, I need to make it my goal to be different from others by being more like Jesus instead of by making unusual fashion choices."
"God tells us to be holy as He is holy--and He has given us the Holy Spirit so we can live in a way that shows others we belong to Jesus. You can do that and wear mixed-up shoes at the same time," Grandpa assured her.
Kassi laughed. "But next time, I won't try to convince Brooke to join me!"
– Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Do you enjoy being unique? Do you like to stand out from the crowd? God specially created each one of us, and it's good to embrace our own styles and personalities. But God has instructed His people to be unique in a different way. In His power, you can shine for Jesus in a dark world by living a life of obedience and love. This is how God wants His children to stand out from the crowd!
Today's Key Verse:
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. (NIV) (Romans 12:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Set yourself apart for God
Bible Reading: Matthew 13:44; Philippians 3:7-8
Roman tapped his fingers on the console of his family's minivan. He was about to honk the horn when he saw Mom lock the front door and swoop his baby sister onto her hip.
"Hurry," Roman mumbled. He wanted to get to the game store early.
Mom opened the back door and secured his sister in her car seat, then slipped into the driver's seat and started the engine.
"Finally," said Roman. When Mom turned and arched a brow, Roman knew he needed to reign in his impatience. "Sorry, Mom."
She smiled. "I know you're excited, but you need to calm down. We'll get there." They pulled out of the driveway and headed toward town.
Roman opened his wallet and counted the bills neatly lined up inside. He'd helped with yard work and done extra chores around the house to save up for the new PlayBox video game console. It had taken him five months, but today he would be one of the first kids to own the only gaming system that would give him access to the latest and greatest downloadable video games. He could hardly wait.
When Mom pulled into the parking lot, Roman's heart plummeted. Swarms of people stood outside the door, and the store didn't open for another thirty minutes. How could there be a line already? He unbuckled his seatbelt. "I'm going to get in line."
"All right," said Mom. "I'll be at the grocery store next door. Come find me when you're done."
An hour later, Roman held the large box in his hands as they pulled out of the parking lot. "Do you have any money left?" asked Mom.
"No." Roman ran his finger along the edges of the box. "But that's okay."
"It was worth it?" asked Mom.
Roman looked at his mom and smiled. "Totally."
"You know," said Mom, "there's a story in the Bible about a man who sells everything he has to buy a field with hidden treasure. He wanted that treasure so much, he was willing to let go of everything else. Jesus says God's kingdom is like that."
"Really?" asked Roman. "How?"
Mom looked at him. "What do you think?"
Roman squinted into the morning sun. "Because being in God's family is the best treasure ever, and knowing Jesus is worth more than anything else?"
Mom smiled and nodded. "Totally."
–Vickie Price Taylor
How About You?
Have you ever wanted something so badly you'd give up anything to get it? Jesus says that's how exciting being part of God's kingdom is. Having our sins forgiven through Jesus so we can be one of God's children is a treasure unlike any other, and it will never get old or wear out--it lasts forever! You can have that treasure today by trusting in Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
Everything else is worthless when compared with the infinite value of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. (NLT) (Philippians 3:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is worth everything
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4-9; Colossians 3:15-16
CRASH! Mae threw one of her toys across the room. Why does everything have to be so difficult? Flopping on her bed, Mae grabbed her stuffed octopus and flipped it inside out. Now it was frowning back at her. "That's how I feel too, Oki."
"What happened? I heard a crash." Mom slipped into Mae's room and sat down next to her daughter. "Uh-oh, I see that Oki's face matches yours right now."
"I can't get that bracelet right! I even read the instructions and watched that video on it, but it's still not turning out."
"Yes, I can see how that would be frustrating. Why didn't you ask for help?"
Mae shrugged. "Sometimes I just want to figure it out on my own."
Mom nodded and sighed. "I do that sometimes too."
"You do?" Mae looked at Mom suspiciously.
"How about last week when I got that new mixer and tried to put it together?"
"You were really frustrated!" Mae recalled. "Good thing Ben can figure stuff like that out."
"Your big brother was very patient and got it working, but I had to ask him first. I also had to ask God for help."
Mae's eyes widened. "God helped you put the mixer together?"
Mom laughed. "Not physically, no, but He did help me with my attitude. You remember how I was pretty upset with myself when I couldn't figure it out? I could have allowed that frustration to determine my attitude for the rest of my day, but instead I prayed and asked God to help me remember that I have the Holy Spirit in me and can let my attitude reflect His love. I was grumbling and irritable, but with God's help, I chose to focus on what was true, right, and lovely, just like it says in Philippians chapter four."
"God helped you flip your attitude," said Mae.
Mom nodded. "It's okay to get frustrated, Mae, everyone does. What we do when we're frustrated is what matters. Do we stick with this face and attitude--" Mom grabbed Oki and turned her inside out "--or do we trust God to help us not lose sight of His goodness, love, and promises, even when we feel frustrated?"
Mae winked at Mom. "Oki does look better with a smile."
–Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Do you often get frustrated? When you do, do you let your frustration affect how you think about yourself or the way you treat others? If you are a child of God, you have 24/7 access to His power in you. That means you can fix your mind on things that are good, right, and true, even when you feel frustrated or angry. Trust Him to help you clothe yourself with attitudes and actions that reflect His love.
Today's Key Verse:
A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones. (NIV) (Proverbs 17:22)
Today's Key Thought:
God can help you flip your attitude
Bible Reading: Proverbs 2:1-9
"Anna makes me so mad!" declared Kenzo. "She never listens to anyone else's ideas. And she always whispers in class. I wish she'd just sit still for one minute and listen to what someone else is saying!"
"Well, just be sure you don't let her keep you from listening when your teacher is speaking," said Mom. "Listening is your responsibility."
After dinner, it was Kenzo's turn to read a selection for family devotions. He quickly read through the verses, then shut the Bible. "Okay, so can we pray now?" he asked, sitting on the edge of his chair. "I have homework to do."
"In a minute," said Dad. "I have a praise to share. This morning, I read Ephesians 4:32 and realized that the Lord was telling me to forgive a man at work for something he had said about me. I prayed about it, and I trusted God to help me let go of my bitter attitude and forgive him. It was hard to do, but I feel so much better now."
"How does God speak to you?" asked Kenzo. "He never speaks to me like that."
"Could it be that you don't take the time to listen?" asked Dad.
"I listen," said Kenzo. "My teacher says I'm one of her best listeners."
"Listening to God is a bit different though," Mom said. "God speaks to us through His Word, the Bible. When we read it and listen to what it says, the Holy Spirit speaks its truth to our hearts."
"Just like this morning when I read that verse about forgiveness and God spoke to me through it and made me realize that I had to do what it says," Dad added. "As we listen to God's voice in the Bible and carefully think about the verses we read, the Holy Spirit helps us understand the truth He wants us to know and live it out in our lives. But we won't know what He's saying unless we listen."
"Remember how you wished your friend Anna could sit still for one minute?" asked Mom. "I think God would like you to sit still and listen to Him speak."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Are you a good listener when other people are talking? How about when God is talking? He speaks to us through His Word, the Bible. Read it and then meditate on it by thinking about what it says. God also often speaks through pastors and teachers or through parents and friends who help us understand the truth of God's Word. Trust Him to help you be still and listen to what He has to say.
Today's Key Verse:
Be still, and know that I am God. (NKJV) (Psalm 46:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Listen to God
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:13-16
Zebb leaned forward as he and his family traveled through the African game reserve. His excitement at seeing animals in their natural habitats was rapidly being replaced by frustration.
"There's a springbok!" said their guide, pointing out the window.
"Where?" Zebb strained to look in the direction the guide had indicated. "I don't see it." He plopped back in his seat. "Why am I the only one who can't spot any animals even after someone tells me where to look?"
"It's because they blend in so well with the trees and grass," said Mom. "But I'm sure you'll learn to spot the animals soon."
"I don't know," said Zebb. "If I had to depend on hunting them for food, I think I'd starve to death." He managed a weak smile.
Dad grinned at him. "God gave wild animals effective camouflage, didn't He? That's just the opposite of the way He wants us to be."
Zebb rolled his eyes. "Dad! No riddles right now. I'm having enough trouble trying to see the animals!"
"I think Dad is talking about Christians," said Mom. "He's saying that God doesn't want us to lead camouflaged lives."
"You got it!" Dad said. "God wants to shine His light, His love, and His good news to the world through us. He wants others to see Jesus by the way we live."
Zebb stared into the distance. "You're thinking about us going to Uncle Ron's house next week, aren't you?" Zebb knew his uncle didn't believe in Jesus.
Dad nodded. "I'm praying that Uncle Ron will see Jesus in us and decide he wants to get to know Him himself. Sometimes it can feel daunting to share the love of Jesus with others, but God has given us the Holy Spirit to help us. I'm praying He'll work through us to show Uncle Ron what Jesus is like and give us an opportunity to share the truth with him."
"Me too," said Zebb. Just then, he saw a flicker of movement near a tree. He focused all his attention on the spot and finally made out a shape. "I see a giraffe--no, a whole bunch of giraffes--in those trees over there!" Zebb beamed triumphantly. "Finally!" Looking at his dad, he said, "I hope people--especially Uncle Ron--won't have as much trouble seeing Jesus when they look at us."
–Linda Avallone
How About You?
Is it easy for others to see Jesus in you? Do the things you do and say reflect what Jesus would do and say if He were living on earth today? Trust Him to use your life to show those around you what He's like. Don't camouflage the fact that you know Jesus. Let others see that you have His Spirit in you and want to follow Him in all you do.
Today's Key Verse:
I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes. (NLT) (Romans 1:16 )
Today's Key Thought:
Let others see Jesus in you
Bible Reading: Psalm 51:1-10
Brighton sprayed cleaning solution on the whiteboard in the room where she did her homeschool lessons. Then she took a cloth and wiped away all the colorful splotches left behind from the markers used on it. "There," she said. "That's better. Just erasing it doesn't get rid of all the marker spots, but cleaning it does!"
Mom smiled. "It looks brand new!"
That evening during family devotions--as she had been doing for the past few days--Brighton prayed for forgiveness for lying to her parents the week before. "I'm sorry I did that, Lord," she prayed. "Please forgive me and help me not to do it again."
Once again, Mom and Dad assured Brighton they forgave her, and that God did too. But Brighton wasn't sure. "When someone asks me to forgive them for something, I say I will, but sometimes I have trouble forgetting it," she told her parents. "I just want to be sure God knows I'm really sorry."
Later that evening, Brighton was surprised when Mom suggested she go clean her whiteboard before getting into bed.
"I wiped it down after school today," said Brighton. "It's clean."
"Well, why not do it again, just to make sure," said Mom.
"But I haven't even used it since I cleaned it! If I had just erased it, you'd probably still see some marker smears--sometimes you can even figure out what words were erased. But I washed it with cleaning stuff. You said yourself that it looked brand new."
Mom nodded. "When we confess a sin to another person, it's a bit like erasing your board. They generally forgive us, but sometimes they have trouble forgetting it--and we do too. But God isn't like that. When we confess a sin to Him, it's like wiping your board down with the cleaning solution. Our sin is totally removed--every bit is washed away! And God promises that He not only forgives that sin, but He sees us as totally clean and new again."
Brighton liked that. And when she prayed during devotions the following night, she omitted her usual confession about lying. God had already forgiven and forgotten that sin. All she needed to do was remember His promises.
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Have you ever felt like you needed to keep asking God to forgive something you did wrong? You don't need to. The Bible uses several illustrations to show He forgives your sins--casting them into the depths of the sea (Micah 7:19), washing them away (Psalm 51:7), and removing and forgetting them (Hebrews 8:12). Believe what He says. Confess your sin and then trust Him to forgive you.
Today's Key Verse:
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (NKJV) (1 John 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
God forgives sin
Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-31
Macy glanced at her brother and made a face as Mrs. Jackson from next door stepped into their yard. Here we go again, she thought. Their neighbor was always mad about something.
Mom got up from the porch swing. "Hello," she said in a cheerful voice.
Mrs. Jackson harrumphed. "I thought I heard your kids screaming."
Mom glanced at Macy and Jace. "Not today."
"Well, keep them quiet when it starts to get late like this. I haven't been feeling well and need my sleep," Mrs. Jackson said.
Mom's brows knit together. "I'm sorry to hear you haven't been feeling well. Is there anything we can do for you?"
Mrs. Jackson shook her head. "Just keep your kids quiet." She turned and marched back to her yard.
"I hope you feel better," Mom called after her.
"Why are you so nice to her, Mom?" Macy asked.
"Yeah," Jace said. "She's only ever grumpy and mean to us."
Mom turned toward them. "Sometimes it's when people are acting grumpy and mean that they need love and grace the most."
"Love?" Jace wrinkled his nose.
"She doesn't seem like she's deserving of it all the time, I know. But then again, neither are we." Mom sat on the porch swing between them. "God chose to love us even though we're not perfect. We all make mistakes, right?"
Macy thought about how often she fought with her brother, especially when they were playing board games. "Yeah."
Mom nodded. "God loves us in spite of our mistakes, and we should show love to others despite how they might treat us too. When we show them love and grace, we're showing them Jesus."
"I want to be like Jesus," Macy said.
Jace glanced at her. "Even if it means being nice to Mrs. Jackson?"
"Yeah." Macy sighed. "That's going to be hard."
Mom squeezed her hand. "But not impossible. You can trust Jesus to help you love others the way He loves you."
"I will," Macy said. She wanted to be loving like Jesus, even if it meant putting up with her cranky neighbor.
–Bethany Acker
How About You?
Do you know someone who only ever seems to be in a bad mood? Sometimes people who are grumpy or mean act that way because they're hurting. That doesn't excuse their actions, but it can help you remember that they need love too. God shows us love and grace when we don't deserve it, and He will help us do the same for others. Trust Him to help you love your neighbors the way Jesus loves you.
Today's Key Verse:
Love your neighbor as yourself. (NIV) (Mark 12:31)
Today's Key Thought:
Everyone needs love
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:28-33
"Mom, what if Dad can't find another job?" Selah was sitting with Mom on the porch, helping shuck corn for supper. Dad had been out of work for months, and even though her parents were still in good spirits, Selah could tell that money was starting to get tight.
Mom smiled at her question. "The Lord will provide for us," she said confidently
as she tore off another cornhusk.
Selah smiled as her kitten, Max, came bounding around the corner and started batting at the pieces they were dropping on the ground. She still couldn't help but think about the things they would have to give up if Dad didn't find a job soon.
Mom looked at the kitten, then looked at Selah. "Selah, did you feed Max today?"
Selah looked surprised. "Yes, of course. I feed him every day!"
Mom smiled. "Why do you feed him?"
Selah picked up Max and put him on her lap. "I love him, and he needs food every day," she explained. "Why do you ask?"
"Your kitten reminds me of a verse in the Bible," said Mom. "It's about how we don't need to worry about what we eat or what we wear, because the Lord will provide for us. We just need to trust that He will keep His promises."
Selah looked down at Max. He was so small--he would never be able to find food on his own. "So, Max trusts me to provide for him like we need to trust God to provide for us."
"Exactly," said Mom. "And this corn we're shucking is just one way the Lord has provided for us today."
Selah looked puzzled. "What do you mean?"
"The Thomas family from church grew this corn in the field behind their house," Mom explained. "They had so much that they gave us a whole basketful!"
"Wow." Selah rubbed Max's fur as he stretched out in her lap. "I guess God really
is taking care of us!"
Mom nodded. "God provided for our greatest need of all by sending Jesus to be our Savior. He gave us His own Son, and we can trust Him to give us what we need each day too. This corn we eat with dinner can remind us of all the incredible ways God provides for us."
–Emily Tenter
How About You?
Do you trust God to take care of all your needs? Or do you spend a lot of time worrying about them? God promises to look after His children and care for them. When we needed a Savior, He sent His Son to die for our sins so we could be saved. You can trust Him to provide everything you need. Give your worries and burdens to Him and let Him take care of you.
Today's Key Verse:
My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (NIV) (Philippians 4:19)
Today's Key Thought:
God provides
Bible Reading: Psalm 56:3-4; Isaiah 26:3-4; Romans 8:35-39
Editor's note: This story addresses violence and may not be suitable for some children.
Kendall sat on her bed and looked at her mother. "Can't we just stay home?" she asked. "I don't want to go downtown. I'm still scared." There had been a shooting in the city a few weeks before, and Kendall wasn't sure she ever wanted to go out in public again.
"Kendall," said Mom, "I understand you're scared, but we can't just hide at home for the rest of our lives."
Kendall slowly got up and went to the window. Looking out, she noticed a little dove all alone on the balcony. It rested peacefully until two large pigeons landed nearby. The young dove began cooing loudly in alarm. Kendall frowned. "If only that little dove had stayed in its nest, it would be safe." Before Mom could answer, the mother dove appeared and the curious pigeons flew away.
Mom gently stroked Kendall's hair. "Honey, that little dove was never really left alone. Its mother was always watching."
Kendall sighed and pressed her forehead against the window. "I wish we had someone to watch and protect us wherever we go so I wouldn't be scared," said Kendall. "Like a bodyguard."
"Oh, there's someone much better than a bodyguard looking out for you, Kendall," said Mom. "You're God's child, and He is constantly caring for you. He loves you, and He'll always be with you no matter where you go."
"But we can't be sure He'll keep us safe, can we?" asked Kendall. "I mean, sometimes Christians get hurt too."
"That's true," said Mom. "We can't understand why He allows some things to happen, but nothing can happen that He doesn't allow. And no matter what happens, He promises to be with us. Jesus died and rose again so we could be God's children and live with Him forever. So even though terrible things happen sometimes, we don't need to be afraid, because God has promised us eternal life with Him, and nothing can take that away from us."
Kendall thought about what her mother said. "So since God is my Father and He's with me, I don't need to be afraid anymore, even though the world is such a scary place."
Mom nodded. "God watches over you every moment. Trust Him. He'll never leave your side."
–Suzanne Daly
How About You?
Do you live in fear because of the terrible things that happen in the world? Are you afraid to leave your house? If you're a child of God, you don't need to live in fear and dread. You're never out of God's sight, and nothing can ever separate you from Him. Nothing that happens ever takes Him by surprise. Trust Him and know He's watching over you.
Today's Key Verse:
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. (NKJV) (Psalm 34:15)
Today's Key Thought:
God sees and cares for you
Bible Reading: Psalms 97:1-6; 104:31-35; Revelation 1:4-7
Enzo was watching TV when he saw small ripples appear in his glass of juice. A moment later, he felt slight vibrations throughout his body, as though someone had just started a car he was sitting in. "Mom!" Enzo yelled as he ran into the kitchen. "The floor is shaking!"
"Quick," said Mom, "under the table!" They scooted underneath the large kitchen table and stayed there several minutes until the rumblings deep in the earth below them stopped.
Once it was safe, they climbed back out, and Mom flipped on the news. "The earthquake we felt was 4.8 on the Richter scale," she said. "There were some buildings in the area with minor damage, but it wasn't very strong, and no one was hurt."
"We learned about the Richter scale in school," said Enzo. "It has numbers between one and ten that measure how strong an earthquake is."
"That's right," said Mom. "A 4.8 is considered a light earthquake."
"It didn't feel light," said Enzo. "It was scary!"
"Yes, earthquakes scare me too," said Mom. "When I feel one, I'm afraid it might damage our house or our town--or worse, hurt you or someone else. But earthquakes also remind me how powerful and holy God is and that He is in control of everything."
"How do earthquakes remind you of that?" asked Enzo.
"The Bible says that the earth trembles before the Lord," Mom replied. "Even though the huge tectonic plates that make up the earth below us seem incredibly powerful and unpredictable to us, God has complete control over them. There's no scale to measure how powerful He is. He's off the Richter."
"So the earth trembles before the Lord, just like I tremble in an earthquake?" asked Enzo.
Mom laughed. "Do you mean you tremble because you're scared or because you're shaking along with the ground?"
Enzo thought a moment. "Both!"
"Earthquakes are powerful forces of nature, but they're nowhere near as powerful as God," said Mom. "He has control over the entire universe, and yet He loves us and sent His Son to die for our sins. One day, the whole world will see His power when Jesus comes again to judge sin, but those who trust in Him have nothing to fear."
Enzo smiled. "What a great God."
–Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Have you ever seen something so powerful it made you afraid? Whatever it was, God had complete control over it--He's more powerful than anything you can imagine. One day, all people on earth will see His power like never before when Jesus comes again, but those whose sins have been forgiven will have nothing to fear. Are you one of those people? If not, trust in Jesus today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth. (NIV) (Psalm 96:9)
Today's Key Thought:
God is great
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:97-104
"What is this?" Lindsey asked her grandma, looking at the metal trays and racks on the kitchen counter.
"That's honeycomb," Grandma said. "Grandpa took it out of one of our hives earlier."
"It doesn't look like honey," Lindsey said doubtfully.
Grandma laughed. "Right now, the comb is draining, so if you look under the metal rack, it should look like honey. Now I need to package it up so Grandpa can take it to customers tomorrow."
"Can I help?" Lindsey asked.
"Sure!" Grandma handed her a pair of gloves. "Why don't you put these on, then I'll show you how to do it."
When her mom picked her up later that day, Lindsey told her about the honey. "It was so cool, Mom! There was honey left on the trays, and Grandma let me taste some. It was so good--it tasted just like sugar. I got to bring some of it home so you can taste it."
"That does sound really cool," Mom agreed. "I can't wait to taste it. Did you know that there's a Bible verse about honey?"
"There is?" Lindsey asked. "About honey?"
"Yep. It's in the book of Psalms, and it tells us that God's Word is sweeter than honey."
"But the honey was so sweet!" said Lindsey.
Mom laughed. "Yes, honey is really sweet, and the Bible is even sweeter than that! God's Word teaches us about Him, and He uses the Bible to talk to us. Through it, He tells us who He is and how much He loves us, and He helps us understand what Jesus did to save us and how we should live as His children. Talking to Him and learning from Him are two reasons it's important to read the Bible."
"I like looking at my Bible." Lindsey bit her lip. "But I can't read it yet."
Mom smiled. "You'll be able to read it before too long! And listening to the Bible works the same way--that's why Daddy or I read your Bible to you every night before bed."
"Can we read the verse about honey tonight?" Lindsey asked.
Mom pulled into the driveway. "That sounds perfect."
–Kimberly Brokish
How About You?
Have you tasted honey? It's very sweet, isn't it? Our Key Verse today tells us there's something even sweeter than honey--God's Word! God's words to us in the Bible are sweeter than anything else. How great is it that God wants to talk to us? Listen to what He has to say by reading the Bible yourself and listening when others read and explain it to you. What is God telling you?
Today's Key Verse:
How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! (NIV) (Psalm 119:103)
Today's Key Thought:
Reading the Bible is sweet!
Bible Reading: Mark 2:3-12
Kelvin sighed as he picked up a big box. "This room is full of stuff."
Mom wiped sweat from her forehead. "And we need to get it all moved to the garage. Theresa and her kids will be here soon."
Kelvin and his mom had been struggling since his dad passed away, and he had been surprised when Mom told him that her friend was going to move in with them for a while.
Kelvin made a couple of trips to the garage, then he dropped to the floor in the still-messy guest room. "I'm tired."
"Me too." Mom leaned against the wall. "We can break for a minute."
"Why are we doing this?" Kelvin asked.
"Because Theresa had a fire at her house," Mom said. "She and her kids can't live there anymore."
"I know that, but why do they have to come here? Aren't there other places they can go?"
"She's my friend, Kelvin," Mom said. "We help our friends when they're in trouble." Mom knelt on the floor. "I'll tell you one quick story, then we need to get back to work. When Jesus was doing miracles, some men came to bring their friend to see Him. Their friend couldn't walk, so they had to carry him to the house."
Kelvin looked at his mom. "They carried a grownup?"
Mom nodded. "When they got to the house, it was too full to get inside. Instead of leaving, they climbed onto the roof with their friend and made a hole in the roof."
Kelvin's eyes widened. "They took him on the roof?"
"They lowered him down through the hole," Mom said. "And Jesus healed him. The men did everything they could for their friend, showing him the kind of love that God shows us. Jesus laid down His life for us, and when we make sacrifices for our friends like He did, we show them His love." Mom stood up. "And now we need to get this room cleaned and set up for Theresa's family so I can be a good friend and show her God's love."
"We should get back to work, huh?" Kelvin got to his feet. "At least we don't have to carry people or climb onto any roofs."
Mom smiled. "Right?"
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Have you ever done something big for one of your friends? Maybe you helped them with homework when you wanted to be playing instead, or you helped them with chores even though you didn't have to. That's the kind of love Jesus showed His friends. He died for our sins so we could be His friends forever, and He'll help you make sacrifices for your friends too.
Today's Key Verse:
There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) (John 15:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Friends help each other
Bible Reading: Romans 8:31-39; 2 Corinthians 12:9
The wind blew through Georgia's hair as she and her uncle paddled their canoe among the reeds that filled the marshes near her new home. She didn't feel like paddling. Her mom had died of cancer four months before, and now she and her little brother were living far from home with Uncle Steve. The bayou, as Uncle Steve called it, looked like a swamp--nothing like Georgia's home in Michigan.
Georgia watched the marsh reeds bend under the force of the strong wind and muttered, "I know how you feel."
"What did you say, Georgia?" asked Uncle Steve, who had been doing more than his fair share of paddling for the last half mile.
"Oh, nothing. I was just thinking how those reeds and I have a lot in common." Georgia sighed.
"How so?" asked Uncle Steve.
"Well, they get blown around wherever the wind wants. They don't get any say in what happens to them." She sighed again. "Just like me."
"You know, Georgia, I think you're right. You do have a lot in common with these reeds. But not in the way you think. Look a little closer," urged Uncle Steve as he paddled them over to the reeds. "What do you notice?"
Georgia studied the cluster of reeds. It was true that the wind blew them around, sometimes switching directions abruptly. But no matter how hard the wind blew, the reeds just bent over and popped back up.
"They aren't breaking," observed Georgia. "As soon as the wind stops, they straighten back up again. But that's not like me at all. I feel like I'll never pop back up."
Uncle Steve stopped paddling. "There's a verse in Isaiah that says, 'A bruised reed He will not break.' Georgia, no matter how much the hardships of this life may bend you, you can hang on to the promise that you don't have to break because God loves you and offers you grace, peace, and hope. He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for your sins so that you could have the promise of eternal life and never have to face life's troubles alone. In times when it seems like you'll never pop back up, trust Him to hold you up so you won't break--just like these reeds."
–Laura Kuehn
How About You?
Are you going through a hard time right now? Do you feel like a reed getting bent over? Remember God's promise to you--no matter what you face in life, He will be with you. Because of His great love for you, He gave His Son, Jesus, so you would never be alone. No matter how hard the winds may blow, you can trust Him to be with you and hold you up.
Today's Key Verse:
A bruised reed He will not break. (NKJV) (Isaiah 42:3)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God to hold you up
Bible Reading: Psalm 34:3-8
"Wanna come to church with me this week, Finn?" asked Tobin, who was at his cousin's house for the day. "We're studying the life of Jesus in my Sunday school class, and I think you'd really like it!"
"Nah," muttered Finn. "I don't like church."
"How do you know?" asked Tobin. "You've never been there."
"I just know I won't like it, that's all. Let's go see what's for dinner." Finn led the way to the kitchen, where he peered over his mother's shoulder. "Salmon patties, yum!"
Tobin frowned, then felt embarrassed when he realized his aunt had noticed.
"Don't you like salmon patties, Tobin?" Aunt Kim asked.
Tobin shook his head. "No, not really."
"Have you ever eaten one?" asked Aunt Kim. Again Tobin shook his head.
"Then how do you know you don't like them?" asked Finn.
Tobin shrugged. "I just know, that's all."
Finn rolled his eyes. "Salmon patties are so good! But hey, if you don't want any, I'll eat yours."
"Before you do that, I think Tobin really should try one," said Aunt Kim.
"Yeah, give it a try," said Finn. "You might like it, Tobin."
Tobin started to protest but then stopped abruptly. "Okay, you win," he said, grinning. "I'll try a salmon patty."
"All right!" Finn gave him a fist bump. "I know you're gonna like it."
When they sat down to dinner, Tobin hesitantly cut into his salmon patty. He put it in his mouth and chewed slowly. "Not bad," was his verdict. He eagerly ate the rest. "I think I'll have some more!" Aunt Kim smiled and passed him the patties.
"You know, this reminds me of a verse I learned at church," Tobin said as he helped himself to another patty. "It says, 'Taste and see that the Lord is good.' The Bible tells us that when we get to know Jesus, He'll show us how good He is and how much He loves us. That's why I love church--it's a place to learn more about Jesus with others who have seen His goodness and love too." He grinned at his cousin. "Well?"
Finn looked at him thoughtfully. "Okay, I get what you're saying," he said. "Mom, can I go to church with Tobin this week? I want to give it a try."
–Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Have you ever turned down invitations to go to church because you thought you wouldn't like it? If you already go to church, do you pay attention and learn all you can about Jesus? Next time, give it a try! Listen to the lesson and songs and think about them. If you have any questions, ask them. Once you start learning about God and how much He loves you, you just may find you want to know more and more!
Today's Key Verse:
Taste and see that the Lord is good. How happy is the person who takes refuge in him! (CSB) (Psalm 34:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Let God show you how good He is
Bible Reading: Romans 5:6-11
"Oh no!" groaned Jonas as he and his mom stood looking at the dent in their car. "What happened?"
"Apparently someone backed into the car while we were shopping, but whoever it was didn't leave a note saying they did it." Mom sighed. "Well, there's nothing much we can do about it, but I suppose we should make a police report."
After the report was made, Jonas and Mom hurried home to tell Dad about the accident. "Well," Dad said as he went out to look at the car, "I'm thankful it's just a car that's damaged--nobody got hurt." He examined the dent in the fender. "This isn't major damage, but body work can be quite expensive. I'll call the insurance company--I'm pretty sure they'll cover it."
"I hope so, but it still doesn't seem fair," said Jonas. "The person who backed into us should pay the bill. It was their fault."
"I know, Jonas, but we can't make them pay when we don't know who they are," said Mom. "So if insurance doesn't cover it, we'll just have to take care of it ourselves."
"What? That's not fair at all!" said Jonas. "It makes me mad. We shouldn't have to pay when it's not our fault. Whoever hit us shouldn't just get away with it."
"No, and if we end up having to pay for damages that are someone else's fault, I can't say I'll be happy about it," said Dad.
"Me neither," said Mom. "But it's not good to drive around with a big dent in the car."
"Tell you what," said Dad. "When we feel annoyed that somebody is getting away without paying, let's remember that we don't have to pay for everything we deserve to pay for either. Jesus willingly paid the price for our sin by dying on the cross, even when He knew who was at fault--us!"
"That's right," said Mom. "So let's not spend our energy being angry about this dent. We have so much to be thankful for--nobody got hurt, the damage to the car is minor, and above all, Jesus paid the price for our sin so we wouldn't have to!"
–Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Would you be angry if you had to pay for something that wasn't your fault? That's natural. But just think--that's exactly what Jesus did for you! He loves you so much that He died to pay the price for your sin so you could have eternal life with Him. If you haven't trusted Him as your Savior, do it today and He will cover the cost of your sin so you don't have to. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (NKJV) (Romans 5:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus paid for your sin
Bible Reading: Psalm 66:19-20
"We're leaving in five minutes, everybody. Let's get moving!" Dad called from the garage.
Hunter, already packed and ready hours ago, bounded in through the back door. "Mom, Mom! Guess what I found outside!"
But, distracted with her preparations, Mom didn't seem to hear. She bent over the cooler she was trying to organize and, frowning, pulled out a box of graham crackers. "That certainly doesn't belong in here…and neither does this…"
"Mom, listen, in the backyard there's this…" Hunter paused, realizing his mother wasn't paying attention. "I know you're busy, but this is really cool!"
Mom blinked. "Hmm? Hunter, if there's something you need, you can go ask your sisters. I still have so much to do." She glanced at the clock on the wall. "Oh, look at the time!" And with that, she hurried away.
Hunter found his sisters in the next room. "Hey, Addy, Katie, guess what I saw in the backyard!"
But the girls seemed to be preoccupied with their own business as well.
"Addy, do you have my coloring book?" Katie asked her twin.
"Well, yes, but--"
"Oh, there it is. Let me have it."
"Guys?" Hunter interrupted. "Don't you want to hear?"
Addy ignored Hunter and scowled at her sister. "It's not your coloring book anymore. Mom said I could have it since you never used it."
Katie jumped to her feet. "What? That's not fair! Give it back!"
"Nuh-uh! Mom said it's mine!"
"We'll see about that. Mom!" Katie stormed out with Addy close on her heels.
Hunter sighed in disappointment. "Isn't there anyone who wants to hear what I have to say?"
Then he remembered the one person he could always go to when he wanted someone to talk to. Closing his eyes and folding his hands together, Hunter prayed. "Jesus, I haven't been having a very good day--no one seems to have time for me. But I know you're always there and always want to listen. You know what I found today? A robin's nest with two little blue eggs in the tree next to the window. I'm going to keep watch every day so I won't miss it when they hatch!"
–Eliana Canfield
How About You?
Have you ever wanted to talk to someone who wasn't available to listen? It can be disappointing when our family or friends don't have time for us. But the greatest friend of all, Jesus, always listens to our prayers. He loves it when we talk to Him! Next time you want someone to talk to, share your thoughts with Him, the one who always listens.
Today's Key Verse:
Even before they call, I will answer; while they are still speaking, I will hear. (CSB) (Isaiah 65:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is always listening
Bible Reading: Matthew 7:12; Romans 13:8-10
Elodie's heart ached as she got ready for school. "No one ever talks to me at school," she told her parents at breakfast. "I hate it here! We've lived here six weeks, and I still don't have one friend--not one!"
"Elodie, when I was a kid I learned a little poem that I think you need to apply to your life," Mom said. "It says, 'I went looking for a friend, but not one could be found. I went out to be a friend, and friends were all around.'"
Elodie wiped her hands on a napkin. "What does that mean?"
"It means you shouldn't think so much about finding a friend and instead focus on being a friend," Mom explained. "Start looking for someone who needs a friend instead of waiting for them to come to you."
Dad nodded. "In the Bible, Jesus says to do to others what we would want them to do to us. I know it can be scary to reach out to people you don't know when you're the new one at school, but you can start by being a friend like Jesus to the kids in your class. He reached out to us in love before we were His friends, and we can do the same to others. Trust Him to help you do that, and we'll pray that He will bring the right friends into your life."
As Elodie got out of the car at school, Dad gave her an encouraging smile. "Be friendly today," he said. "I'll be praying for you on my way to work."
As Dad drove away, Elodie noticed a girl going up the walk. That looks like the girl who sits across from me in math, she thought. What's her name? Oh yeah--Nadia. She doesn't seem to do much with the other kids. Maybe she doesn't have any friends either. Maybe…
"Nadia!" called Elodie. "Wait up. Can I walk with you?"
Nadia looked up. "Sure," she said, surprised. "You're new here, aren't you? I am too. I've been here seven weeks, and you're the first person who's really talked to me."
A warm feeling filled Elodie, and it drove out the cold, lonely ache. Mom and Dad were right, she thought. God, please help me be a friend like Jesus to Nadia.
–Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you feel lonely or left out? Instead of waiting for someone to be a friend to you, be a friend to them first. Before we knew Him, Jesus reached out to us in love and friendship, and He will help you show the same love to others. Ask Him to bring new friends into your life, and the next time you see someone who needs a friend, think of ways you can reach out to them.
Today's Key Verse:
Do to others as you would like them to do to you. (NLT) (Luke 6:31)
Today's Key Thought:
To make friends, be a friend
Bible Reading: John 10:7-10
Jayla's black and white kitten dug his claws into the leg of her jeans. She shook him off and started loading the dishwasher. Meow! protested the kitten.
"What do you want, Jingo?" asked Jayla. Jingo bounced to the sliding door. "I guess you're ready to go outside," said Jayla. The kitten meowed and--according to Jayla--smiled. "You said, 'Uh-huh,' didn't you? I'll open the door for you as soon as I finish putting the dishes in the dishwasher." But Jingo didn't want to wait. He attached himself to the leg of Jayla's jeans again. "Ouch!" she exclaimed. "Quit that!"
Jingo dropped to the floor and trotted back and forth between Jayla and the door. Finally, he stationed himself there and looked at Jayla with enormous green eyes.
Jayla laughed. "Okay, Jingo. You win. I'll open the door for you." She dried her hands, and with Jingo at her heels, she walked to the door. When she opened it, he bounded outside and made a beeline for his favorite spot in the sunshine.
When she was finished with her chores, Jayla went to her room. Soon she returned to the kitchen. "Mom, guess what? I was just working on learning my verse for church, and Jingo gave me an example of what it means."
"Really?" asked Mom. "And what is that?"
"Well, Jingo knows he can't open the door himself, so he comes to me and gets me to open it for him," Jayla explained. "So the way outside is through me--it's like I'm the door for him. That's like my verse. It says Jesus is the door to salvation. We can't get into heaven by ourselves, but when we trust in Jesus, He opens the door so we can get in--He saves us from sin and gives us eternal life."
"That's a good way to look at it!" said Mom, and she and Jayla laughed as they looked out the window and saw Jingo jump around on the grass, having the time of his life. "But unlike you and Jingo, Jesus doesn't just open the door and then leave us. The Bible says He's always with us, from now into eternity."
"Jingo is a lot of fun," said Jayla. "And now he's taught me something too."
–Glenna B. Roberts
How About You?
How do you expect to get into heaven? Do you think you can get there by being good? By obeying your parents? By going to church? It won't work. There's no way you can get into heaven except through the door--Jesus Christ. The only way for you to be saved and have eternal life is through Him. Trust Jesus to open the door for you today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
I [Jesus] am the Door. Anyone who goes in through Me will be saved. (NLV) (John 10:9 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is the door to salvation
Bible Reading: Philippians 3:20-21; 1 John 3:1-3
Armel sighed as he looked out the window. He had planned to spend the day fishing with Grandpa, but it was raining. "This is going to be the most boring day ever," he grumbled.
"Oh, you're always complaining," said his sister. "Read a book or something."
The sound of a man's voice came from the kitchen where Mom was listening to a podcast of one of her favorite speakers. "When Jesus appears, we will be like Him, because we will see Him as He is," the man was saying.
Armel's thoughts lingered on that last phrase--"see Him as He is." I wonder what Jesus looks like, he thought. How tall was He when He was on earth? Did He really have long hair like in the pictures in books? I wish somebody who knew Him had written a description. He probably smiled a lot, and maybe His eyes twinkled like Grandpa's.
"Armel," Mom called from the kitchen. "Grandpa wants to talk to you."
When he heard Grandpa's voice on the phone, Armel knew he was smiling. Grandpa was calling from ten miles away, but it was easy to imagine how he looked--and Armel liked how everybody said he reminded them of his grandfather. "Hi there," said Grandpa. "What do you think of the weather?"
"It's raining," Armel replied with a pout.
"Yes, but I've got an idea. I need some help in my workshop. Are you available?"
"I'm ready right now!" Armel exclaimed.
As Armel returned the phone to his mom, the voice in the kitchen caught his attention again. "Our hope lies in the glorious appearing of Jesus Christ. We will not only see Him, but we will be like Him. Until then, the Holy Spirit is working so that others can see Jesus in us now. As He shapes our hearts, we can reflect Jesus's love in our thoughts and actions, looking forward to the day when we will finally be like Him."
Armel smiled to himself. I like it when people say I remind them of Grandpa because he's such a warm, loving person. I want to remind people of Jesus that way too. And it will be even better when I'm with Jesus, because then I'll be perfect like He is. Armel grinned, imagining what his sister would say about the idea of him being perfect.
–Phyllis I. Klomparens
How About You?
Do you wish you could see Jesus or know what He looks like? If you know Him as your Savior, someday you will see Him. Not only that, but you'll be like Him too! You'll have a new body that will never hurt or die. And you'll never sin again--you'll be perfect. That's definitely something to look forward to! Until then, trust God to help you show others what Jesus is like through your words and actions.
Today's Key Verse:
We know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. (NIV) (1 John 3:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Look forward to being like Jesus
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:11-13; 1 Timothy 6:6-8
"Hey, Mr. Watson," said Thiago as he walked across the courtyard of his apartment complex. His neighbor was watering pink and white impatiens in a flower box.
"Hi, Thiago," replied the elderly man. "Have you gotten used to being in the city yet?"
Thiago put his backpack down before he answered. "No, not really. I wish we didn't have to leave Oceanview. I miss swimming in the ocean."
"You can swim here too, you know," said Mr. Watson as he began watering the plants in a large urn.
"I know. That's what Sam said--he's in my class at school. But the only place there is to swim around here is the city pool. I went with him one day, and it was so crowded, it was no fun at all! Nothing like swimming next to a sandy beach in the hot sun."
"Sounds like you need to make an adjustment," said Mr. Watson.
Thiago sighed. "What if I don't want to?"
"I didn't either. Before I moved to this apartment, I used to have a big garden at a house outside the city. When I first moved here, I tried to grow the same flowers on the north side of this complex as I had grown in my big, sunny garden. Most of them either died or grew spindly and didn't bloom."
"Your flowers look okay to me," said Thiago, looking at the boxes and urns popping with color.
"That's because I adjusted to my new situation and planted flowers that bloom in the shade," Mr. Watson explained. "I learned that God created more than one kind of beautiful flower. And you might discover that God has good things He wants you to experience here that you wouldn't have had in Oceanview."
"You sound like my Sunday school teacher," said Thiago. "She's always telling us that if we know Jesus, we can be content no matter where we are or what we have."
"Well, she's right," said Mr. Watson. "Jesus has given us eternal life and promises to be with us in every situation, and because of that, we can be content. Trust Him to help you adjust to your new situation. Give it some time, and you might learn to like city life--just like I've learned to like impatiens and begonias."
–Ruth McQuilkin
How About You?
Do you have to adjust to something new--like a new home, school, or family member? If you only see the bad things about your new situation, you'll miss out on the good things God has for you. The Bible tells us that, with Jesus, we can be content in any situation. Trust Him to show you something good about your new situation and to help you through any adjustments.
Today's Key Verse:
I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. (CSB) (Philippians 4:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Learn to adjust
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:12-14
As Charlotte carefully counted out the money she had taken from her drawer, her sister Rachel watched from the bed. The girls had decided to pool their money and get their mom a special gift for Mother's Day. "We should go around the neighborhood and ask if there are any odd jobs we can do," said Charlotte. "Then we might have enough money to get Mom that necklace we saw."
"Well, Mrs. Stowe is always looking for someone to do yard work for her. Let's try her," suggested Rachel.
Soon the girls were mowing and raking Mrs. Stowe's yard. It was a very humid day, and they were hot and sweaty by the time they finished. Wiping her forehead, Rachel gratefully took the money Mrs. Stowe gave them and put it in her pocket.
"I'm thirsty," said Charlotte as they started down the street. "I'd give anything for an ice-cold soda right now!"
"Or a huge cone of chocolate ice cream," said Rachel. "But we can't spend any of our money or we might not have enough for the necklace."
Just then, the girls heard the music of an ice cream truck as it came around the corner. "Ice cream!" called out the driver. "Ice-cold drinks!"
Charlotte and Rachel looked at each other. "This is so tempting, Rachel," said Charlotte. "What should we do?"
"Run!" shouted Rachel. And they did! They ran straight home and immediately poured themselves giant glasses of ice water.
Later that day, they counted their earnings. Charlotte turned and grinned at Rachel. "We have just enough to get that necklace. Good thing we didn't spend any on anything that ice cream truck was selling."
"Yeah," Rachel said. "It's like what we learned at church last week--when we face the temptation to sin, the best thing to do is run away. Because Jesus freed us from sin, we don't have to give in. He will help us escape temptation and do what's right instead."
"But spending our money on ice cream wouldn't have been a sin, would it?" asked Charlotte.
"Of course not," said Rachel. "But we agreed to use it all on Mom's gift, and I'm glad we stuck to that decision. And when we are tempted to do something that's wrong, we can run away from that temptation too."
–Linda E. Knight
How About You?
What do you do when you're tempted to do something that's wrong? When you're enticed by sin, remember that, through Jesus, you have the power to resist it and act out of love and obedience instead. God promises to always provide a way for you to escape temptation, and when you see it, run! Trust Him to help you resist temptation and do what's right.
Today's Key Verse:
Flee the evil desires of youth and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace. (NIV) (2 Timothy 2:22)
Today's Key Thought:
Run from temptation
Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 2:1-8
Alex frowned as he poured some cereal and looked out the window. Joanna never quits talking! he thought as he saw his sister coming up the driveway. I wish she'd leave me alone. He snapped his fingers. I know what'll fix her. I'll give her the silent treatment. So when Joanna came into the house, Alex retreated to his room. She banged on his door and called his name, but he put on some music and turned up the volume so he couldn't hear her, and Joanna finally gave up and walked away.
A little while later, Joanna started to tell Alex something, but he covered his ears with both his hands and began to hum. I'll teach her, he thought. All morning he refused to hear anything she said.
At lunchtime, Alex noticed that Joanna had put on her swimsuit. "Are you going somewhere, Joanna?" asked Dad.
She nodded. "I'm going to Water World with the Mannings."
"Sounds like fun," said Dad. He looked at Alex. "You're not going?"
"I wasn't invited," Alex answered crossly.
"You were too!" said Joanna. "I tried to tell you all morning, but you wouldn't listen. They had two extra tickets and invited both of us, but now they've given the last ticket to someone else."
"Oh no!" wailed Alex as the Mannings' car turned into the driveway.
That evening, Alex asked his parents for help with something for church. "My small group leader wants each of us to share some thoughts on prayer during our group time this week," he said. "But what should I say?"
"Well, let's see," said Dad. "Maybe you could talk about the importance of talking to God and listening to Him."
"You could tell about how you missed out on a fun outing today by refusing to talk with your sister," suggested Mom. "Then explain that we all miss out on the blessing of communicating with God when we fail to talk to Him."
Dad nodded. "God loves us and wants us to pray about all the things that matter to us. Jesus died and rose again so we could have a relationship with Him, and that means we can talk to God whenever we want!"
"Good idea," said Alex. "I'll tell the kids in my group not to give God the silent treatment."
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Do you regularly talk to God? Do you tell Him what's going on in your life and ask Him for help with your problems? Or do you think it doesn't make any difference whether you pray or not? It does! God loves you so much that Jesus gave His life so you could have a relationship with Him. He wants to help you and bless you through the gift of prayer. Talk to Him about everything.
Today's Key Verse:
Pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. (NLT) (Philippians 4:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Talk to God
Bible Reading: Psalms 34:17-18; 147:3; Hebrews 4:14-16
"I can't wait for the school carnival on Friday!" said Skylar. "My mom's working at the slushy booth. She's gonna make me a slushy with every flavor in it!"
"My dad's helping out with the pin game," said Gabriel. "He said there are some cool prizes for whoever knocks them all down!"
"What about you, Nevaeh?" asked Skylar. "Is your grandpa helping?"
Nevaeh shook her head. "No, he can't work at a booth--he can't be on his feet for long periods of time."
"That's too bad," said Gabriel.
Nevaeh smiled and shrugged. "It's okay," she said. "No big deal."
When Nevaeh got home from school, Grandpa greeted her. "How about some of my famous guacamole?" he said. "I have to put the lawnmower away, but if you'll start cutting up the onions, I'll be back in a jiff to make the rest."
"Okay," said Nevaeh. But as soon as she sliced into an onion, her eyes started to tear up. The onion must be making my eyes water, she thought. But even after she put down the knife, the tears kept coming. When Grandpa came back inside, Nevaeh was sobbing.
"I'm sorry, Grandpa!" Nevaeh cried. "I keep trying to accept that I can't live with Mom or Dad and be thankful that I live with you, but when Skylar and Gabriel were talking about their parents working at the school carnival, I really wished my parents were working there too!"
"Your grandmother never wanted to bother anyone with her feelings either," Grandpa said. "So whenever I sensed something was wrong, I'd ask her to cut up some onions, and the same thing would happen to her--the tears would just come out." He gave Nevaeh a hug. "But your feelings aren't bothersome to those who love you, Nevaeh. Whenever you feel sad or upset, you don't need keep it to yourself. You can tell me--it won't hurt my feelings to know that you miss your parents. And most importantly, you can tell Jesus. He loves you and can handle any feelings you have."
Grandpa cut into an avocado. "I may not be able to help with a booth, but I could bring some guacamole to your school carnival. How about that?" Nevaeh smiled and nodded.
–Courtney Lasater
How About You?
When you feel sad or upset, do you ever try to keep it to yourself? Maybe you don't want to bother other people about it or don't think they'd care. But it's important to share your feelings with others instead of bottling them up inside. Jesus wants you to tell Him about your feelings too--you can trust Him to understand and to help you with them.
Today's Key Verse:
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7 )
Today's Key Thought:
Share your feelings with Jesus
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:31-40
"Are you ready to go, Elizabeth?" asked Mom. Elizabeth frowned. They were going to visit Mom's grandma, who had Alzheimer's disease.
"I'm not sure why we visit every week," murmured Elizabeth as they started toward the door. "Last week she didn't even remember my name."
"No, but Grammy always enjoys seeing you," said Mom. Elizabeth doubted that. Visits to Grammy always seemed awkward and sad.
A cry came from the baby's room upstairs. "Sounds like Simon needs a bottle," said Dad, putting his tablet down. "I'll get it! You two have a good visit."
"Okay," said Mom, and she and Elizabeth went on out to the car. "Elizabeth, I was just thinking about how much I appreciate your help with Simon," Mom said as they pulled out of the driveway. "You seem to really enjoy feeding him, playing with him, and holding him when he cries."
Elizabeth grinned. "I do, Mom. He's such a sweet baby, and I love him so much!"
"Me too," said Mom. "But do you think Simon will remember that you fed him or took care of him at all a year from now? He probably doesn't even realize how much you do for him now, and he's too young to understand who you are."
"Well, you still need to take care of him, so I'm doing it for you too," said Elizabeth. "I'm happy to help. And when he's older, he will know who I am."
Mom nodded. "Just like Simon, Grammy needs someone to care for her too, even though she can't fully appreciate all we do for her or even remember our names sometimes. But Jesus still loves her and promises to take care of her, and one way He does that is through us. When we show her the same love and care He does, we're not just doing it for Grammy--we're doing it for God too."
Elizabeth sighed. "You're right. It's just hard to visit her sometimes when she won't even remember we came."
"I know, but she'll know somebody cares right now," said Mom gently. "It will help her today." She smiled. "She may not remember, but God will. And one day, when Jesus gives Grammy a new, perfect body, I'm sure she'll remember too."
–Mike Dize
How About You?
Are you willing to help people who will probably forget all the good things you do? God won't forget. Jesus says that the things you do to show love and care to others are done for Him, whether anyone else remembers or not. Be willing to help in whatever way you can, even if you don't think it will make a difference. Do it for the Lord, and trust Him to use your good deeds to show people His love.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said,] "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." (NIV) (Matthew 25:40)
Today's Key Thought:
God remembers all you do
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:1-17; Romans 8:1-4
Tristan sighed as the bell signaling the end of recess rang. "Come on," he said to his friend Aria. "We'd better hurry or we'll get in trouble."
"Yeah," Aria said. "Mrs. McGinn is so strict. Her rules are impossible!"
As Tristan worked on his math that afternoon, his pencil point broke. He tapped Aria on the shoulder. "Do you have an extra pencil?" he whispered.
"Tristan," said Mrs. McGinn sternly, "you know the rule about not whispering in class. You broke that rule, so you will stay inside during morning recess tomorrow." Tristan tried to explain, but it was no use.
When Tristan told his parents about it, Mom shook her head. "I'm sorry your teacher is so strict and didn't listen to what you had to say," she said. "But you knew the rule, and you broke it. Next time ask Mrs. McGinn for a pencil instead of Aria."
Dad picked up his Bible. "Ready for family devotions? I believe we're up to Exodus 20, and it's your turn to read, Tristan."
Tristan took the Bible and began to read. "More rules!" he exclaimed after reading several verses.
Dad nodded. "These rules are called the Ten Commandments. They were given to the Israelites as part of God's law. The Bible also tells what the punishments would be if the Israelites disobeyed them."
"Is it as bad as Mrs. McGinn's?" asked Tristan.
"Much worse. Sin is a terrible offense against God, and sometimes the punishment was death," said Mom. "In fact, the final punishment for sin--for all people--is eternal death. That's punishment in hell forever."
"But because God loves us, He offers us grace instead of the punishment we deserve," said Dad. "We've all done things that are wrong and are therefore guilty of breaking God's law. But Jesus took the punishment for our sin when He died on the cross. When we trust in Him, He forgives our sins and gives us eternal life with Him."
Mom nodded. "Because of God's grace, we don't need to fear eternal punishment. Jesus took that for us."
Tristan smiled. "It would be nice if someone would take my punishment from Mrs. McGinn too," he said. "But at least it won't last forever!"
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Have you heard of the Ten Commandments? They are listed in Exodus 20 and are part of God's law. Take a moment to read through them. Have you ever broken any of those commands? Then you have broken God's law and deserve to be punished. But guess what? Jesus took that punishment for you! Trust in Him, and you will receive God's grace and be given eternal life. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
Those who belong to Christ will not suffer the punishment of sin. (NLV) (Romans 8:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus took your punishment
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:17-25
"Hi, Dad," Zander said as he entered his father's workshop. "Can you help me build a birdhouse now?"
Dad looked up. "I'm ready if you are. Let's pick out some wood." He led the way to the bin of scrap wood. "I thought you were playing with Landon today."
"He left," said Zander. "I wanted to do this, so I told him I had homework to do."
Dad frowned as they carried several pieces of wood over to the workbench. "You mean you lied to Landon?"
"Not really. I do have homework, but I'll do it after we finish the birdhouse."
"But you purposely led Landon to believe that you were going to do the homework now. That's a form of lying, Zander."
Zander shrugged. "Well, what was I supposed to say? 'Go home. I don't want to play with you anymore'?" He handed Dad a board. "Anyway, it was just a little lie. It won't hurt Landon's feelings or anything. He'll never know."
"All lies hurt the people who tell them," said Dad. "You could have just explained that you wanted time to work with me before doing your homework." He held up the piece of wood Zander had just handed him, and using both hands, he easily cracked it in half. Zander watched, wide-eyed. "Look closely at this wood," said Dad, holding the pieces out to him.
Zander looked and saw several tunnels crisscrossing through the place where it had split. "Wow! I guess those tunnels made the wood weak. I could probably have split it myself! What caused that?"
"Possibly carpenter ants," said Dad. "They eat away at wood until it's weak and easily breaks apart." He looked at Zander thoughtfully. "Ants are little, but they can do a lot of damage. Lies are like that too. Lies--even so-called little ones--eat away at our truthfulness. As Christians, we're called to be like Jesus, who always tells us the truth, and His truth transforms us. He gives us the power to be truthful too so our lives point to Him and His love for us."
Zander was startled. "I'm sorry," he murmured. "Should I text Landon and tell him to come back?" He thought about it a moment. "That's what I'll do. He can help us with this birdhouse!"
–Daryl B. Knauer
How About You?
Do you think it's okay to tell little white lies? Do you figure they won't hurt anyone? They do hurt--and even if no one else finds out, they still hurt you. When you tell lies--big or small--you are not being truthful like Jesus, who speaks the truth to us out of love in His Word, the Bible. Being honest isn't always easy, but God will help you love others and tell them the truth.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not lie to one another. (NKJV) (Colossians 3:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Be truthful like Jesus
Bible Reading: Philippians 1:3-6; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Astrid plopped down on the porch swing. She looked up as her Uncle Tim came up the porch steps. "Hi, Astrid," he said. "Do I see a frown on this beautiful day? What's up?"
Astrid sighed. "My friend Ella's rich grandpa paid for a vacation in Florida for her whole family. I heard all the details at least a hundred times! Why can't I have a rich grandpa too, instead of just paper ones?"
"Paper grandpas? What do you mean?" asked Uncle Tim.
"Well, Grandpa Jerry's picture has been standing on the desk for as long as I can remember, and that's all I know of him. And my other grandpa died so long ago that I can't remember him either. We just have pictures of them--paper grandpas."
Uncle Tim frowned. "You have an awfully poor reason for wanting a grandpa," he said, and Astrid looked down at her feet. "Both of your grandpas are in heaven, Astrid. They might not be able to show you how much they love you in the same way Ella's grandpa can show her, but they gave you something much better than a trip to Florida."
Astrid looked at her uncle with wide eyes. "They did?"
Uncle Tim nodded. "Grandpa Jerry loved me in a way that helped me realize how much God loves me. He prayed for me throughout my life--and he prayed for you too, even if you weren't old enough to remember. He prayed that you would believe that Jesus died on the cross for you and trust Him as your Savior so you would be with Him forever." Uncle Tim smiled at Astrid. "I guess neither of your grandpas had a lot of money, but they had something much more important. Their greatest hope and prayer was that all their family members would recognize the depth of Jesus's love for them."
Astrid gave her uncle a little smile. "I trust in Jesus," she said. "When Ella comes back from Florida, maybe I should tell her about my grandpas and how I can't wait to see them in heaven someday."
"Good idea." Uncle Tim grinned. "Your grandpas may just be pictures to you now, but when you meet them in heaven, they won't be paper grandpas anymore."
–Phyllis I. Klomparens
How About You?
What do you value in your parents or grandparents? Is it the things they can give you in this life? Or have they taught you that, for Christians, the best is yet to come? Thank God for the Christians He's put in your life who show you His love and pray for you. Even if some of them aren't with you anymore, one day you'll be able to thank them too for pointing you to Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
I thank my God every time I remember you. (NIV) (Philippians 1:3 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be thankful for Christians who love you
Bible Reading: Matthew 18:12-14
Rain pelted against Jack's face as he tried to ride his bike. Three more blocks and he would be home. However, it seemed like he wasn't getting anywhere with the wind pressing against him. He peddled hard but wasn't moving fast.
It's even hard to see, Jack thought and finally pulled to the side of the road. There was a big tree on the corner of the street, and he parked his bike under it so he'd be out of the rain.
Jack shivered as he stood there, his T-shirt and jeans soaked. If only he had taken his friend's mom's offer of a ride home instead of biking back.
Jack took a seat on the damp grass and leaned back against the tree. How long is the rain going to last? he thought. What if it keeps raining like this all night? "God, please help me," Jack whispered.
He had been sitting there for a while when headlights came down the road. A vehicle pulled to the curb, and Jack's eyes filled with tears of relief when he saw his dad climb out.
"Jack!" His dad ran to him through the rain.
Jack hugged him. "You came for me!"
"Of course I did," Dad said. "Your friend's mom called when it started raining. We were worried about you."
"Thanks for finding me, Dad."
"Anytime." Dad smiled at him. "I would leave the ninety-nine for you, you know."
Jack's brow wrinkled for a moment, but then he got it. "You mean, like in the Bible?"
Dad nodded as he wheeled the bike to his truck. "Jesus tells the story of a shepherd who left ninety-nine sheep to find the one who was lost. That's how He loves us as our Good Shepherd--when we were lost in the darkness of sin, He came to find us. And it's also the way I love you. I will always come to help you, and Jesus will always be there for you whenever you feel lost or alone."
"I prayed when I was alone," Jack said. "Then God sent you."
Dad smiled. "See? God was with you. He knew you were in trouble and He helped you."
Jack climbed into the warm van and returned his dad's smile. "I'm glad you and God care about me."
–Bethany Acker
How About You?
Have you ever felt lost, alone, and afraid? Did you cry out to God and ask Him to help you? Jesus tells us that He is our Good Shepherd who came to find us and help us when we were lost and alone, and He promises to always be with us. Trust Him to take care of you, and thank Him for parents and other adults in your life who show you His love and care by always looking out for you too.
Today's Key Verse:
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. (NIV) (Isaiah 41:10 )
Today's Key Thought:
God will always help you
Bible Reading: Luke 12:16-21, 31
"Hey, you want a monkey for a pet?" asked Anthony's friend Obi one day.
"Sure, but how would I catch one?" asked Anthony. He and his parents had recently arrived in Africa as missionaries.
"It's easy. You trap him," said Obi, handing Anthony a gourd. "First, make a hole in this gourd--make it just big enough for a monkey to put his paw through." He supervised while Anthony worked. "Okay," Obi said, "that's big enough. The gourd is hollow, so now we'll put some fruit in it. Then we'll fasten it to the branch of a tree at the edge of the village."
"I don't get it," said Anthony. "How will this work? Even if a monkey reaches into the gourd to get the fruit, what will keep him from getting away with it? Doesn't the trap have to slam shut or something?"
Obi shook his head. "When the monkey has the fruit in his fist, his paw won't go through the hole. If he'd just let it go, he could get away, but they usually don't do that. I guess they want the fruit so bad they hang on even though it means they get caught."
Soon the trap was ready. The boys walked to the tree Obi had selected and attached the gourd to a branch. "There. By tomorrow morning, you'll probably have a monkey," said Obi.
Back home, Anthony told his mother how the monkeys foolishly held on to the fruit instead of letting it go and getting away. Mom laughed. "Do you know I used to be just as foolish myself?"
"You were?" Anthony was surprised.
"I wanted certain things," Mom explained. "A nice home, pretty clothes, a nice car, a grassy lawn. I wanted to hang on to those things--I didn't want to give them up and come here, even though your dad and I sensed God calling us to move to Africa. But the Lord helped me let go of those things by showing me I already had something much better--a relationship with Him and the promise of eternal life. I've never been as happy as I am here in Africa, sharing the good news of Jesus with the people I meet."
Anthony looked around their new home and smiled. "God really wants what's best for us, huh, Mom?"
Mom nodded. "Yes, He truly does."
–Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
What things do you want badly? Good grades? Nice stuff? Money? It's not bad to want things like that, but don't let them become a trap that distracts you from what truly matters. If you know Jesus, you already have the best thing of all--eternal life with Him. So don't set your heart on the things of this world. Instead, be willing to let them go as you trust God to lead you in His will for your life.
Today's Key Verse:
Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (NKJV) (Colossians 3:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Love God, not possessions
Bible Reading: Isaiah 25:4-5
Gwen did a belly flop on her bed and began to sob uncontrollably. After a couple minutes, there was a light knocking on her door. "Come in," Gwen said into her pillow.
Mom sat down on the side of Gwen's bed. "I take it you didn't have a good day at school today?"
"It was the worst day ever!" Gwen said as she sat up in bed and tried to wipe the tears from her eyes.
"What happened? Does it have to do with the spelling bee?" Mom asked gently.
Gwen sniffed and nodded. "I got so nervous when it was my turn, I misspelled the easiest word. I spelled house H-O-W-S-E, and everyone in my class burst out laughing." The tears began flowing down her cheeks again.
Mom embraced Gwen in a hug and rubbed her back while she continued to cry. After a while, Gwen broke free and looked at her mom. "How am I ever going to show my face in school again? The kids are probably going to make fun of me for a long time. It was so embarrassing!"
"I know how hard it can be to face others when they might make fun of you, but remember that you're not alone. God is with you, and He will never leave you." Mom stood up and looked at the rain outside Gwen's window. "When it storms outside and we're inside the house, do we need to worry about getting wet?" Mom asked.
Gwen got up and joined her mom at the window. "No, because the house shelters us," she said as she watched the rain pour down and lightning light up the sky.
"Exactly, and God is our shelter when we face the storms of life. When others laugh at you or judge you, remember what God thinks of you--He loves you so much that Jesus came to earth and died for you! Trust Him to help you through this, and know that I'll be here to help too."
After Mom left her room, Gwen stood watching the storm outside. Dear Lord, please help me face this storm in my life, she silently prayed. Afterward she felt like she could face school the next day.
–Melissa Yeagle
How About You?
Are you going through a storm in your life? Are you relying on God to help you through it? He promises to never leave you and to be your shelter when storms come. No matter what you face--difficulties at school, problems at home, the loss of a friend or family member--He will be with you. Trust Him to shelter you in life's storms.
Today's Key Verse:
God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." (NLT) (Hebrews 13:5)
Today's Key Thought:
God is with you through life's storms
Bible Reading: Psalms 63:6-8; 73:23-28
"How does she sleep like that?" Lennon asked, staring at her baby sister. Lennon had been having nightmares that just wouldn't stop. "How is she so peaceful?"
Mom smiled. "I think Lyric feels safe. I think she's pretty comfortable here with us." She shifted the baby in her arms. "If I put her down, then we might have issues."
Lennon wished she could sleep in her mom's arms. She would feel a lot safer then.
"Do you know who holds you when you sleep?" Mom asked, as if reading her thoughts. Lennon shook her head. "Jesus does," Mom said. "He holds each of those who trust in Him as we rest. He watches over us so we can feel peace, sort of like what I'm doing with little Lyric here."
Lennon's face scrunched up. "But I'm not a baby. You really think God holds someone like me?"
"Someone like you, someone like me." Dad stepped into the room. "God watches over us as we sleep." He moved to Mom and sat beside her, stroking his finger along Lyric's cheek.
Lennon looked between her parents. She knew they loved her and would do anything they could to protect her, but she wasn't a baby anymore. She didn't sleep in a crib in their bedroom like Lyric did.
Lennon twisted her hair around her finger. "Jesus is with me in my room when you two are across the hall with Lyric?"
"He is," Mom said.
"And He's there in the middle of the night when I wake up from a bad dream?" Lennon asked.
"He is," Dad said. "He loves us so much He died for us, and He is always present with those who have faith in Him. When we feel afraid, we can turn to Him for comfort and peace. And you can still come to us too, you know. We might have a newborn to look after now, but we're still here for you."
Lennon nodded. "God looks after a lot of kids, huh?"
Dad smiled. "Yes. Many more than we could ever look after."
Mom rocked Lyric in her arms. "And He offers each one the peace needed to sleep like a baby. Like this baby."
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Have you ever struggled to sleep at night? Were you worried about something or scared to close your eyes in case you had a bad dream? The Bible tells us that we can find rest in the Lord. Jesus died for us so we could be with Him forever, and He is always with us. Trust Him to give you peace so you can rest, and when you struggle with worried thoughts or bad dreams, ask an adult for help too.
Today's Key Verse:
In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. (NIV) (Psalm 4:8)
Today's Key Thought:
God holds you as you sleep
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:35-44
"It's a nice sunny day," said Mom. "Want to help me plant seeds in the garden? We can plant the flower seeds we found at Grandma's house."
"Okay!" said Leo. "I'll get them." He ran to fetch the brightly colored packets, and soon he and Mom were burying tiny brown seeds in the rich, dark earth. "I wonder if there will be flowers in heaven," said Leo suddenly. His grandma had recently died, and Leo knew she was now in heaven.
Mom smiled. "I hope so!"
"It's hard to understand what heaven is like, huh?" said Leo. "I know Grandma is there now, but…" He paused. "We'll still have bodies, right? I know Pastor Holmes said Grandma left her body and went to be with Jesus, but he said her body would be raised up again someday when Jesus comes back to make the whole world new again." Leo hesitated. "But Grandma was old and sick. I don't think she'd want her body back."
"The Bible says that when our bodies are raised, they'll be changed," said Mom. "They'll be glorious, heavenly bodies."
"But how can such an old, sick body like Grandma's change so much?"
Mom thought a moment. "Leo, do you really think those seeds you're planting will grow into flowers?" she asked.
Leo looked at her in astonishment. "Why wouldn't they?"
"Look at them--they're so small and ugly! They don't look at all like the flowers in this picture." Mom pointed to the picture on the seed packet--a glorious mass of red, orange, and yellow flowers. "Do you really think those seeds can turn into something as beautiful and as different as this?"
"Mom! Of course they can!" exclaimed Leo. "They're seeds--that's what they do."
Mom grinned. "I just want you to see how God can make things change. Just like He created tiny seeds that become big, beautiful flowers, God promises that He will one day transform those who trust in Jesus and give them bodies more glorious than we can imagine."
Leo glanced back and forth from the seed packet to the seeds he held in his hand. "Glorious, heavenly bodies," he murmured. Then he smiled. "All right!"
–Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you ever wonder what the new bodies Jesus gives us will be like? Think of how God makes plants of all shapes, sizes, and colors grow out of small seeds. That's just a tiny glimpse of what He can do! You can be sure He will work even greater miracles when he gives Christians new, glorious bodies that will last forever.
Today's Key Verse:
[The body] is sown a natural body, it is raised a spiritual body. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 15:44)
Today's Key Thought:
Christians will receive glorious bodies
Bible Reading: 1 John 5:10-13
Bruno frowned and kicked at a stone as he walked home from school. As he approached Mr. Burk's house, he saw his Sunday school teacher working in the yard. "Hi there, Bruno," said Mr. Burk. "How are you today?"
"Not great," muttered Bruno. He shuffled his toe in the dirt. "I'm always getting into trouble at school." He sighed. "Since I've been coming to your Sunday school class, I've been trying to change and be good--but I just can't seem to do it. Today I had to stay in at recess because I talked back to a teacher."
Mr. Burk leaned on his rake. "I'm sorry to hear that," he said.
Bruno shrugged. "Like I said, I'm trying to do better, but I guess it's hopeless."
"Oh, no, no, no!" said Mr. Burk. "It's not hopeless. I think you're just depending on the wrong things to help you." He picked up a small dead branch that had fallen from a tree. "I was going to plant some fruit trees out back. I'll water them and put fertilizer around them, and soon they'll bear juicy peaches and apples for me to eat." He held up the dead branch. "Why don't you help me plant this one?"
Bruno laughed. "That's a dead stick. You know it won't grow anything."
Mr. Burk looked at the stick. "True," he said. "A dead stick can't produce fruit. And you know what, Bruno? You may be like this stick--you don't have true life either if you haven't trusted Jesus as your Savior. Have you done that?"
"Well, no, I…I…" Bruno stammered. "I thought if I just went to church and read the Bible and did stuff like that, I'd be all right."
"You said you want to do better, but you need Jesus for that," said Mr. Burk. "Even if you read the whole Bible and go to church and pray, you can't produce good fruit unless you have spiritual life that only comes through Jesus. You need Him to free you from sin and give you the power of the Holy Spirit so you can live in a way that shows others His love." Mr. Burk smiled at Bruno. "Would you like me to explain how you can receive real life through Jesus?"
Bruno looked at the dead stick lying on the lawn and nodded.
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Has Jesus given you spiritual life? Are you bearing good fruit by the power of the Holy Spirit? Or do you just try hard to be good only to fail? Just like a dead stick can't produce fruit when it's not connected to a living tree, you can't live the Christian life without Jesus. Trust Him as your Savior and receive new life today! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. (NIV) (1 John 5:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus gives life
Bible Reading: Exodus 4:10-12; Ephesians 6:18-20
As the curtain dropped at the end of her school play, Hazel's dad and brother made their way backstage. "You remembered every line perfectly," Dad said, giving her a hug.
Hazel smiled. "Before the curtain rose at the beginning, I was so scared! I didn't see how I was going to get through it without my script in front of me. But when I had to start talking, the words just came back."
"What's a script?" asked Hazel's little brother, Tommy.
"It's a copy of the play," said Hazel. "On my copy, I marked the words I had to say." She smiled at a girl walking by. "Good job, Mia!"
"Thanks," murmured Mia. "You did good too, Hazel."
As Hazel and her family drove home, Hazel spoke. "Remember Mia? She seems really unhappy lately. I feel like I should talk to her about it, but I'm afraid I might say the wrong thing." She looked at the script she held in her hand. "I wish there were a script for that sort of thing."
"Well, you're in good company," Dad said. "I think the apostle Paul was sometimes a bit concerned about saying the wrong thing too."
"No way!" said Hazel. "Paul was one of the greatest preachers ever!"
"But he was human--just like you. And he had a big responsibility too--helping people understand how much God loves them and what Jesus did to save them. Do you know what he did about it?"
"Maybe he prayed," suggested Tommy.
"Yes, he did," answered Dad. "And he also asked his Christian friends to pray that God would put the right words into his mouth."
"Sort of how the right words to the play popped into my head tonight?"
"Sort of," said Dad. "Only the words he spoke came from God, not from a script. You may not know the right thing to say to Mia, but God knows exactly what you need to say--and what Mia needs to hear. Pray about it, and if you believe God wants you to talk with her, go for it, trusting Him to help you. I'll pray for you too."
–Heather Tekavec
How About You?
Does the idea of talking to others about Jesus scare you? Do you worry you might say the wrong thing or not be able to think of anything to say at all? Ask God to help you speak the right words at the right time--just like He helped Paul and Moses (see today's Bible reading.) Trust God to give you the words you need when you need them.
Today's Key Verse:
Now go! I will help you speak and I will teach you what to say. (CSB) (Exodus 4:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Let God help you speak
Bible Reading: Psalm 130
Where's Pippi? wondered Monica when she got home from school. She always meets me at the door. Then she saw it--a trail of tissue paper from the bathroom down the hall. "Oh, you naughty puppy! Come here, Pippi!" A brown ball of fur came slinking out from under Monica's bed, tail tucked between its legs. Monica laughed. "You know you're guilty, don't you?" she said, picking up the puppy and rubbing her fur. "But I love you anyway, and I forgive you. Let's get this mess cleaned up."
That night, Monica had trouble sleeping. She couldn't forget something bad she had done that afternoon. She tossed and turned as it went over and over in her mind. Why did I do that? she kept asking herself. Jesus must be so mad at me. I wish I could hide! She pulled the blanket over her head, but it didn't help. Suddenly, Monica shivered. "Mom!" she called. "Mom!"
The light came on, and Monica blinked as she lowered the blanket and saw Mom's concerned look. "Oh, Mom," said Monica, wide-eyed. "It seemed like Jesus was right here!"
"Why does that scare you?" asked Mom. "You know Jesus loves you and is always with you."
Monica's voice shook. "Well, I…I stole some money from Saralyn. It was on her desk, and--"
"And that's why you're afraid." Mom put her arms around Monica. "Remember how Pippi tried to hide after dragging the tissue paper down the hall from the bathroom?"
Monica nodded. "Yes, but it didn't work. I knew where she was hiding and what she'd done. She knew too. I could tell she was ashamed, and I forgave her."
"Well, we often try to do the same thing with God," said Mom. "When we sin, the sense of God's presence can be frightening and make us feel ashamed. But we don't ever have to hide from God in shame, because Jesus took the guilt and shame of our sins on Himself when He died on the cross. When we confess our sin to Him, He will forgive us, just like you forgave Pippi."
"I'll ask Him to forgive me now," said Monica. "And I'll return the money tomorrow." Together, Mom and Monica bowed their heads and prayed. Then Monica snuggled down under the covers, and soon she was fast asleep.
–Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Are you ever afraid of God and want to hide from Him? That usually means you know you've done something wrong and feel ashamed of it. But you can't hide anything from God--He already knows all about it, and He wants to forgive you! Jesus paid for all your sins so you wouldn't have to hide. Tell Him what you did and ask His forgiveness. He loves you and wants to give you peace.
Today's Key Verse:
If we confess our sins, God will forgive us. (ERV) (1 John 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Confession brings forgiveness
Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; James 1:17
"What a great day!" Colby told his dad as they said goodbye to their friends at the park. They'd joined other families to hang out and have fun. Colby's two best friends, Asher and Arlo, had been there too. As Colby and his father turned toward the sidewalk, they spotted an ice cream truck parked there.
"Please, Dad!" Colby cried. "Just this once!"
Dad smiled. "Sure, just this once." He handed Colby some money.
Colby rushed to the truck and requested his favorite sweet treat--the strawberry shortcake bar. He eagerly unwrapped it and took a bite as the ice cream truck drove away. Just then, Colby tripped on a curb. The delicious dessert fell from his grasp, landing in the dirt. "No!" Colby yelled. He knew it could not be rescued and began to cry.
"I'm sorry, buddy. I wish I could buy you another one, but the truck just left." Dad hugged Colby and then picked up the filthy shortcake bar and tossed it in the trash.
Walking home, Colby said, "Dad, I had fun today until I dropped my ice cream. That spoiled my whole day."
"I know the ruined ice cream bar was a disappointment, but did it really wreck your entire day?"
"Maybe," Colby replied.
"Colby, remember last summer when you trusted Jesus to forgive your sins and be your Savior?" Dad asked. Colby nodded. "Well, now you are God's child, and do you know what He wants for His children?"
"What, Dad?"
"He wants us to be grateful. He tells us to be thankful in all situations."
"I am not thankful I dropped my ice cream!" Colby announced.
"You don't have to be, buddy. God tells us to be grateful in all things--not for all things. When we remember that Jesus saved us and promises us eternal life, we can be thankful for the joy and hope we have in Him, even when bad things happen. And we can thank Him for the good things in our lives too. Can you think of anything from today that you would like to thank God for?"
"Yes! My friends, Asher and Arlo; the kickball game at the park; and one more thing, Dad."
"What's that?"
"I'm thankful we have more ice cream at home!"
–Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Do you sometimes struggle to give God thanks? Even when we feel frustrated or sad, we can always find reasons to say thank you to God. We don't have to feel grateful for scary or bad things that happen, but, when we remember that Jesus died for us so we could have eternal life with Him, we can learn to be thankful in all situations, even difficult ones.
Today's Key Verse:
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (NKJV) (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Today's Key Thought:
You can always thank God
Bible Reading: Colossians 3:23-24
Plink! Plink! Plink! One by one, Abbie slowly picked out the notes of the music for her piano recital. This is so hard, she thought. I'm not sure I'll ever get it good enough to play in front of a bunch of people! Abbie struggled on for a few minutes, then tossed the music book on the floor and began to play a song from memory. This is much more fun, she told herself.
Later that day, Abbie helped Mom plant seeds in the garden. "You always have such pretty flowers, Mom," said Abbie. "Grandma says you have a green thumb--whatever that means."
Mom laughed. "She means I have a talent for growing plants. That may be true, but I have to do a lot of work too. Thomas Edison, the great inventor, once said, 'Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.' I think he's right."
"You do work hard in the yard--and you make me work hard too!" Abbie teased. "I don't mind gardening, but I don't have a green thumb like you do."
"What do you like to do?" asked Mom. "What are you good at?"
"Hmm." Abbie thought for a moment. "Playing the piano!" Then she frowned. "But I'm already tired of practicing my recital piece. I wish I didn't have to practice so much."
"So I guess music is your green thumb area," said Mom. "You definitely have a talent for playing the piano. But if you want to develop that into something worthwhile, you'll have to work hard at it--just like I have to work hard at gardening even though I have a green thumb. But I know you can do it. God is the one who gave us our talents, and He will help us work to develop them so we can share our gifts with others and point them to Jesus."
Abbie grinned. "But I don't think it's fair--I can help you in the garden, but you can't help me play the piano."
"That's true," said Mom. "But I'll tell you what. When we're done here, I'll use another one of my talents while I listen to you rehearse your piece--I'll work on sewing your dress for the recital. How about that?" Abbie smiled and nodded.
– Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
What are you good at? There are many ways you can use your talents to share good things with others and point them to Jesus. They can range from performing in front of people to serving quietly in the background. Singing, speaking, making things, cooking, writing, planning activities--whatever you do well is a talent God can use. Don't worry about what other people think--trust God to help you develop your talents and use them for His glory.
Today's Key Verse:
Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. (NLT) (Colossians 3:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Develop your talents
Bible Reading: John 3:16-18
"Hey, Dad!" Eleanor said as she bounced into the den. "What are you doing?"
Dad looked up from the papers on his desk and smiled at Eleanor. "Just going through some paperwork. How was school?"
"All right," Eleanor replied. "I got a B on my science test today." She paused, and after a moment, frowned. "Is your paperwork for that insurance stuff you were talking about with Mom? I overheard you talking about it when I was studying yesterday, but I don't understand what it means."
Dad shifted in his chair. "It's called life insurance," he began. "If something happened to me and I died, Mom would need money to pay for my funeral and to take care of you. She wouldn't be able to pay for all that herself. But with life insurance, the insurance company helps pay for everything."
"Oh," Eleanor said, turning the idea over in her mind. Suddenly, a thought struck her. "Are you getting this insurance because you're sick?" she asked. "I don't want you to die--we'd never be together again!"
"It's all right, Eleanor, I'm not sick," Dad said, giving her a hug. "But even if I did die, it doesn't mean you'd never see me again. Life insurance can only help pay for things on earth when someone dies, but I have the assurance of eternal life with Jesus, who paid a much greater cost--He died to pay the price of my sin. Because I trust in Him, I know that I'll go to heaven to be with Him when I die, and one day He will raise me from the dead! No life insurance company could ever promise anything as good as that," Dad said, pointing to the papers on his desk. "Do you have the assurance of eternal life too, Eleanor? Have you trusted Jesus as your Savior? If so, then you and I will be together with Him forever."
"I've heard a lot about trusting in Jesus at church, but I--I guess not," Eleanor stammered. "Will you help me pray so I can tell Him I want to do
that now, Dad?"
"Absolutely," Dad replied, and they both bowed their heads.
– Ethan Denny
How About You?
Do you have the assurance of eternal life with Jesus? The price of your sin is too high for you to pay, but Jesus paid it for you when He died on the cross. When you trust Him as your Savior, He promises you eternal life with Him. Trust in Him today and know that you'll live with Him forever! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NKJV) (Romans 6:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Receive the assurance of eternal life
Bible Reading: Psalm 55:16-17, 22
As Jeremiah looked out the window at the falling rain, he felt like his life was as dismal as the day. Dad left home, and we don't even know where he is, he thought. Now Mom is sick, and it's up to me to look after her and my two little sisters. But how can I do all that plus run my lawnmowing business and go to school? I sure can't do it all alone.
Just then the city bus pulled up to the corner and an elderly woman got off. It was Granny Gresham, a nearby neighbor, and she had a big suitcase. The wind was so strong that Granny could scarcely take a step forward. Jeremiah hurried to pull on a raincoat and headed for the door. "I'm going to help Granny Gresham," he called to his mother. "She's out in the storm."
Jeremiah ran over to their neighbor and took the suitcase for her. When they finally reached her home, she turned to him gratefully. "What would I have done without your help?" She smiled. "How about a cup of hot cocoa?"
"Thanks, but I have to hurry home," replied Jeremiah. "Mom's sick."
"Oh, that's too bad," said Granny. "Now just remember that you don't have to face your problems alone, Jeremiah. I know you love the Lord, so don't forget that He's always with you, ready to take your burdens. The Bible tells us that Jesus is a Savior who empathizes with our struggles because He knows what it's like to live in this difficult world. Tell Him all about what you're going through and trust Him for help."
As Jeremiah hurried home, he thought about Granny's words. Jesus, he prayed silently, I feel like I have more stuff to take care of than I can handle, so thank You for having Granny remind me that You're with me all the time. Please show me how I can help Mom and take care of my sisters along with school and everything else.
That night, the phone rang. It was Granny. "Will you carry my suitcase once more?" she asked. "I'm coming to your house to help out until your mom is well."
Jeremiah grinned. Thank You, Jesus, he prayed after Granny hung up. Thank You for helping me.
– Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Do you have problems you don't know how to handle? Do you think there's no one who can help you? If you know Jesus, He invites you to boldly come to Him. He understands what it's like to face worries and troubles, and He has the power to solve every problem. Talk to Him about your situation, and trust Him for help and direction. Give Him your burdens and He will carry them.
Today's Key Verse:
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Give your burdens to God
Bible Reading: Psalm 36:7-9; John 14:26-28
Stroking the hen's feathers, Rowan grinned as the chicks tugged at his pants, then scuttled under their mother. "Hi, girls." His sisters Opal and Sylvie joined him, peering under the hen at the chicks, but they knew better than to touch.
"They're so cute!" Five-year-old Rosalind tried to grab a chick, but the chick's mother puffed up and jumped at her defensively.
"Rosie, you have to be gentle, or else Luna will do that again," Mom said as she walked up and peeled off her gardening gloves. "She's a very protective mother, you know."
The chicks at last were allowed to wander out, but when the dog, Arabella, came bounding up, the chicks--Stella, Sunshine, Nova, and Aurora--scurried to take cover under Luna's outspread wings.
Rowan hopped up and grabbed Arabella's collar. "Whoa there, girl. You can't do that. See, you've frightened them." Arabella whined apologetically.
"You know," Sylvie said slowly, "this reminds me of a verse I read this morning."
"What?" Opal cocked her head.
Mom smiled. "Let me guess. 'People take refuge in the shadow of your wings'?"
"Exactly!" Sylvie laughed. "How did you know?"
"We're all reading the Psalms." Mom shrugged. "That was in the one for today."
"What does that mean?" Rosalind wanted to know.
"Think of it this way. When the chicks are afraid, where do they go?"
"Under Luna," Rowan replied promptly.
"Why?"
"Because they like her?" Rosalind guessed.
"Not exactly." Mom smoothed Rosalind's hair. "They go there because they are safe there. Arabella can't reach them there because Luna will protect them. And they know that, by instinct. It's a little like that with us and God. Sometimes we're afraid, or worried, or we feel alone. But like those little chicks, we can take shelter under God's wings. And He is able to protect us far more than Luna could ever protect her chicks. Jesus defeated sin and death to save us, and He promises to always be with us and take care of us."
"So even though Mimi and Papa are sick, and there's a war going on, and we're sometimes so scared we don't know what to do, we can always run to God." Rowan smiled. "Just like Luna's chicks run to her."
– Ellie Shirk
How About You?
What do you do when you feel afraid or worried? We all get scared sometimes, and we often forget that Jesus is right there with us, holding us. Even when we don't feel it, He is near. You can always run to Him, and He will shelter you and give you peace. Take refuge in the shadow of His wings.
Today's Key Verse:
In me [Jesus] you may have peace. In this World you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (NIV) (John 16:33)
Today's Key Thought:
We can take shelter in God
Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:9-13
"Did you see my hit, Dad?" Caden asked as he climbed into the pick-up. "My first of the season!"
Dad nodded. "You know, it could have been a double if you had stepped into the swing."
"I know, but..." Caden quieted.
Mom opened the front door as they drove up to the house. "How was the game, guys?"
"I got a hit," said Caden softly as Dad shuffled away to weed the flower beds.
"Great!" said Mom. "I'm sorry I couldn't be--" But Caden was already inside. He surveyed the kitchen for a snack as Mom followed him into the room.
"I tried a new cookie recipe today." Mom held out a plate and Caden took one. "A perfect way to celebrate your hit." Caden didn't respond. "Did something happen at the game, Caden? What's wrong?"
"Why can't Dad ever say 'good job'? It's just two words. Instead, he always points out what could be better."
"Dad is proud of you, Caden. I'm sure of it. He just forgets how important it is to say it. Maybe you should talk to him about it and tell him how you feel."
"I guess." Caden bit into his cookie. "Hey, Mom, these cookies are a little burnt."
Just then Caden's sister Emily bounded into the kitchen. "I did it! I finally finished the scarf I've been knitting." She held it up for them to see.
Caden glanced at it and frowned. "Aren't scarves supposed to be longer than that?"
Emily glared at him and then walked back to her room.
"What did I say?" asked Caden.
Mom touched his shoulder. "What was it again you wished Dad would have said after the game?"
"Good job. Just two simple words, 'Good--'" Caden stopped. "Oh."
Mom lifted her eyebrows. "Mmm hmm. Sometimes we all just need a little encouragement, don't we? None of us is perfect, but we're still loved--God loves us so much He sent Jesus to die for our sins! And He wants us to remind others that we love them too by acknowledging their accomplishments and encouraging them."
"I'll go find Emily," Caden said. "Looks like Dad and I could work on this together." Caden left the room, but quickly returned. "Hey, Mom? Good job on those cookies."
Mom smiled. "Thanks, Caden. That's just what I needed to hear."
– Kelly Carlson
How About You?
When was the last time you said "good job"? Is there someone in your life who needs to hear that? People rarely do things perfectly, but when they try their best and do well, we need to encourage them instead of pointing out what they could have done better. Make "good job" two of the words you say today!
Today's Key Verse:
Encourage one another and build each other up. (CSB) (1 Thessalonians 5:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Encourage others
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:31-32; Hebrews 12:1-2
"Mom, look at this!" Sari pointed to the TV. "This woman has been hoarding junk for more than twenty years, and now her house is so full she can't even move around in it! It's a huge health hazard, and she's going to be forced to leave her home if she doesn't clean it out. The team of people who make this show came to help. Just look at all that stuff!"
Mom shook her head sadly. "That poor woman. It's so hard to let go of things sometimes."
Sari rolled her eyes. "It's her own fault for letting it get like that! Couldn't she see that her house was getting so full she could hardly walk around?"
"Not necessarily," answered Mom. "I'm sure it happened so gradually over a long period of time that she hardly noticed it. It probably wasn't until someone else came inside that she realized how bad it had gotten. That's how it happened with me."
"What?" exclaimed Sari. "You used to be a hoarder?"
Mom laughed. "I guess you could say that. I didn't hoard things in my house though--I hoarded things in my heart."
"What do you mean?" asked Sari.
"Well, when I became a Christian, I was thrilled to have Jesus in my life. But even though I knew He'd made me a new person, I still didn't want to let go of some sinful things I thought were fun or the grudges I had against other people. I was holding on to sin and anger and bitterness, even though those things didn't belong in my new life and were hurting me and others."
"So how'd you get rid of them?" asked Sari.
"It wasn't until a Christian friend pointed out how she saw me living that I finally realized I needed help. The Holy Spirit gave me the power to let go of my selfish desires so I could live in a way that reflects Jesus's love without all that other stuff getting in the way."
Sari looked back at the TV screen. "Just like the woman on this show will be able to enjoy living in her house once all that junk is cleaned out of it."
Mom nodded. "Exactly!"
– Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Are you hanging on to things that don't belong in the new life Jesus has given you? Sometimes it's hard to let go of your old way of doing things, but that's not who you are anymore. Jesus has made you a new person who's able to show His love to others in all you do. Trust Him to help you let go of any selfish habits you've been holding on to and embrace your new life in Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin that so easily ensnares us...looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. (NKJV) (Hebrews 12:1-2)
Today's Key Thought:
Let go of sin and bitterness
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 33:26-27; Isaiah 40:28-31
Mario and his dad were on a fishing trip when Mario made a discovery--an eagle's nest way up near the top of a tall tree. And up in the sky, they saw a large bird soaring high over the river. Mario let out a long breath. "Wow! I wish I could fly like that!"
"Well, that eagle didn't always have such great flying skills," said Dad. "I've read that baby eagles are afraid of flying. In fact, it takes a great deal of their mother's prodding to get them out of their soft, warm nest."
"I know. We talked about them in school. My teacher said the mother eagle pushes the babies right out over the side of the nest. That must be scary for them!"
Dad nodded. "They probably think they'll fall to the ground."
"Yeah, but then after the mother eagle lets one of the eaglets flutter and fall for a bit, she soars underneath it and lets it land on her wings. Then she takes it back to the nest. She does that over and over until they're brave and strong enough to fly on their own."
A few days later, Mario felt nervous about a kids' event at church he had agreed to help with. "Mrs. Campbell wants me to help with the little kids' group tomorrow," Mario told his dad. "But what if the kids ask me questions I don't know how to answer? It might be the first time some of them ever hear about Jesus, and I'm afraid I won't know what to say!"
"You can always ask an adult for help," said Dad. "I know it's scary for you, Mario, but you haven't forgotten how little eagles learn to fly, have you?"
"What does that have to do with it?" Mario wanted to know.
"God often helps His children in a way that's similar to how a mother eagle helps her babies," Dad explained. "Sometimes He gives you a gentle push to get you to try new things--things that make you feel helpless or afraid at first so you'll learn to depend on Him for strength and guidance. The Holy Spirit is always with you, and He'll be there to catch you and help you know what to say."
Mario smiled. "Thanks, Dad. I'll remember that tomorrow."
– Trudy Vanderveen
How About You?
Do you get nervous telling others about Jesus? Are you afraid your friends will laugh at you if you invite them to church? It can be scary to share your faith with others sometimes, but God is always with you. He's helping you learn to depend on Him in every situation instead of relying on your own strength. Even when you feel like you're failing, He is with you. He won't ever leave you on your own. Trust Him to help you.
Today's Key Verse:
Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. (NKJV) (Isaiah 40:31)
Today's Key Thought:
Rely on God
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-10
Grace took her treasure box out from under the bed and opened it to look over the contents inside. She took a couple of items out and inspected them. A special note from Grandma. A ballet ticket stub. A birthstone ring. A picture book. She smiled as she returned them to her box. She often did this before going to bed. Seeing her treasures brought memories that gave her happy, warm feelings.
One morning, Grace's little sister greeted her eagerly. "I had a dream last night," said Everly. "It was about a great big treasure box. It was way bigger than yours, and lots prettier too! It sparkled all over. And it was as tall as the sky!"
Grace grinned at Everly. "What was in the box?"
"I don't know," said Everly. "I couldn't see inside it."
"Well, who do you think would own such a big, fancy box?" Grace asked. "A king? Or the President?"
"I know who!" exclaimed Everly. "God could have a box like that."
Grace grinned. "If God had a treasure box, what He would put in it? Rainbows, maybe? Or oceans? How about mountains? Or gold?" Everly nodded, but no answer seemed quite right to Grace.
"Let's think about it today," Mom suggested. "Let's see who can come up with an even better answer."
"Okay," said Grace, but her day was busy, and she soon forgot all about it.
When Grace got home from school, Everly was waiting for her. "I know what God would put in His treasure box!" she said, bouncing up and down. "I know the answer!"
"You do?" asked Grace. "How do you know? Mom told you, didn't she?" Grace turned to her mother. "What is it, Mom? Tell me too!"
Mom smiled at her. "Go look up Deuteronomy 7:6," she said. "Maybe that will help you figure it out."
When Grace looked up the verse in her Bible, she saw the answer to the question. People, she thought. God would put the people He saved in His treasure box. Grace smiled. She knew she was part of God's treasure.
–Joy L. Newswanger
How About You?
Are you part of God's treasure? Maybe you didn't know God has treasure, but He does! In today's Key Verse, He calls His chosen people His treasure. Today, that means anyone who has trusted Jesus as their Savior is His treasure too. Are you included in that group? If not, put your trust in Jesus, who died for your sins so you could be saved, and become God's treasure today! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for himself, a special treasure. (NKJV) (Deuteronomy 7:6)
Today's Key Thought:
God's people are His treasure
Bible Reading: Psalm 42; 1 Peter 1:3-9; Revelation 21:3-5
"I'm going for a walk." Mel's attention shot up at Owen's announcement as he entered the kitchen. He still had his hoodie on, but he was actually wearing jeans, not sweatpants. "You want to join?" Mel nodded and jumped to her feet, and within a minute they were out the door.
Mel loved walking in their neighborhood downtown. She liked the scrunched-up houses and how close they lived to their neighbors. As she and Owen walked in silence, Mom's words from a couple weeks ago telling her that Owen had depression echoed in her ears. She kept glancing over at her brother, and eventually he asked, "Why do you keep looking at me like that?" Mel kicked a rock instead of responding. "Mel, what's wrong?"
Finally, she looked up at her big brother. "I just don't understand," she began. "Can't Jesus heal people? Why doesn't He heal you? Will you be sick forever?"
This time Owen kicked the rock before replying. "I believe Jesus can heal me and take away my depression. I'm not sure why He's not doing it now, but I know He will one day."
"One day like in a few more weeks?"
"Maybe," responded Owen. "But maybe not. It's complicated. Jesus promises us that when we trust Him as our Savior, He will save us from our sins so we can be with Him forever. But not everything is perfect--yet. It won't be until Jesus makes everything right when He comes again."
"What do we do until then?" Mel asked.
Owen took a deep breath. "We have hope. I know with certainty that God is faithful and incapable of breaking His promises. Having hope is having confidence in God."
Mel took in the sight of her brother. He was in a good mood today, but would he be tomorrow? Before she could say anything, Owen continued. "And when it's hard to hope, I take comfort in knowing that Jesus is still with me and can give me hope and peace."
Mel found another rock to kick, then looked to Owen and said, "Would it help if I made a sticker of Jesus's hope for your door? That way it'll be easier to remember."
Owen grinned. "I think that's a wonderful idea."
–Zoe Brickner
How About You?
Are you facing pain and difficulty in your life? Even in our suffering, we can have peace knowing our ultimate hope is that Jesus will make all things new. He promises to comfort us and be with us in our pain, and one day He will restore our minds and bodies and get rid of pain, sickness, and death forever! Whenever you go through hard times, remember the hope you have in Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Why are you sad, o my soul? Why have you become troubled within me? Hope in God, for I will praise him again for his help of being near me. (NLV) (Psalm 42:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Stick to hope
Bible Reading: Psalm 23; 2 Corinthians 1:3-7
Mel peeked out of her room to see if Owen's door was still shut. It was. All she saw was the array of homemade stickers plastered over it. The door was closed a lot lately. Mel sighed. She wished Owen would play with her and tease her for the silly-looking people she drew.
"Dinner's ready!" Mom's voice startled Mel, but she grinned when she smelled her favorite chicken and pasta.
At dinner Mel glanced over at Owen's empty chair. "Mom, Owen's been acting strange. He rarely eats with us, and he hasn't wanted to hang out with me." The words tumbled out of her mouth.
"You're right," Mom said after a sigh. "Owen hasn't been feeling good lately."
"Is he sick? Does he need a doctor?"
"Well, it's his mind, not his body," Mom explained. "His doctor calls it depression. This sort of sickness can make it really hard to do the things you love, or even be with the people you love."
Mel was silent for a moment and traced her fork through the pasta sauce. "Is there anything we can do? I feel helpless."
Mom put her hands around Mel's. "Even though Owen is hurting, Jesus is with him and wants to comfort him. He died for Owen and understands what he's going through, and He promises to be with him through it. We can remind Owen that he's not alone and that Jesus loves him. I've been sitting with him in his room while he eats dinner. Do you want to bring up his plate tonight?"
While Mel dished up some food for her brother, she had an idea. She got to work before knocking on Owen's door. He opened it wearing his basketball hoodie. "I brought dinner, and this." Mel held out the sticker she'd made. It was of her, Mom, and Jesus giving Owen a hug with the words, We love you!
Owen laughed, and Mel smiled. "Is that supposed to be me?" he asked, pointing to the middle stick figure. Mel didn't get a chance to respond because Owen pulled her into a hug. Then he stuck her drawing on the inside of his door and said, "This way I can see it. And I'll be reminded that I'm not alone."
–Zoe Brickner
How About You?
Do you know someone who may be struggling in a way similar to Owen? Maybe they've been acting distant and detached from how they usually are. Or perhaps you've been feeling that way yourself. If you think you or anyone else might be struggling with depression, talk to a family member, teacher, or other trusted adult. Then trust Jesus to be with you in your struggles and to help you love and comfort others.
Today's Key Verse:
Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (NIV) (Psalm 23:4)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus sticks with us
Bible Reading: Psalm 66:10-12; Colossians 3:1-14; 1 Peter 1:7
Poppy walked into the kitchen just as her mom was coming in from outside. It was a hot day, and her mom's face was bright red and dripping with sweat.
"Mom!" Poppy laughed. "What have you been doing?"
Her mom was breathing heavily, but she smiled. "I went outside a couple hours ago to clean up the lilac bushes. Well, they were in much worse shape than I thought. I just came in for a drink, but there's still lots for me to do."
"I'll help!" Poppy said, grabbing her gardening gloves.
As the two approached the giant lilac bushes in the yard, Poppy saw the thick vines that wound their way up and over all the bushes, shading them from the sun's light.
Mom picked up the hatchet, and the two of them got to work. Mom cut the vines off at the base and Poppy grabbed and pulled the vines from the bush. The vines held so tightly that it often took the both of them pulling until the vine finally released and the lilac bush bounced back to its full height.
"That was hard," Poppy said once they were finished. She was so tired she could barely lift the glass of iced tea to her lips!
"I agree," Mom said. "But you know what? Sometimes when I do yardwork like that, I remember that God is doing the same type of work in my heart. It makes the struggle a bit more bearable."
"What do you mean, the same type of work?" Poppy asked.
Mom looked thoughtfully at the bushes. "My sinful nature--my desire to do wrong things that go against who I am in Jesus--is a lot like those vines. Fighting against it often feels as hard as ripping those vines out. But, because of Jesus, I have the Holy Spirit, who gives me the power to resist sin and is helping me grow to be more holy--more like Jesus. When I rip out those vines, I'm reminded of the Holy Spirit's work in my life and how grateful I am that I don't have to fight my sinful desires on my own."
Poppy looked at the lilac bushes swaying easily in the breeze, thinking over her mom's words. She knew she had that same power in her too.
–Emily Tenter
How About You?
Do you see evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in your life? If you know Jesus as your Savior, God is refining you and making you more like Him. Sometimes it's uncomfortable, and it's impossible to do alone! God gives us the power to leave our sinful ways behind and pursue holiness. Whenever you struggle with sin, remember that God is making you more like Jesus, and trust Him to help you show His love in your life.
Today's Key Verse:
We went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. (NIV) (Psalm 66:12)
Today's Key Thought:
God makes us holy
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
As Macy walked with her mom to the barn, she began to pick a bouquet of wildflowers. She was so excited to see flowers again. Winter was over, and spring was budding everywhere.
"After we finish helping Dad and Jake with the chores in the barn, we can get those pretty flowers in a vase," Mom said.
Macy set the flowers down in the feed room and got some hay to give to the horses. "Good morning, Cinnamon!" Macy said as she pitched some hay into Cinnamon's stall. She gave all the horses hay, then helped Dad let a couple of the horses out to graze in the pasture. She laughed as she watched the horses dance around. "I think they're excited about spring too."
After they finished up in the barn, Macy grabbed her bouquet and walked back to the house with Mom, picking a few more flowers along the way. Mom picked out a pretty vase from under the kitchen sink, and Macy put some water in it and began to arrange the bouquet. Once she had the flowers arranged just right, she set the vase in the middle of the table.
During dinner that evening, spring was the main topic. Macy's parents and older brother were busy talking about all the things they needed to get done on the farm now that it was warmer.
"I love all the beautiful flowers I can pick now that it's spring!" Macy chimed in.
"And we enjoy your beautiful bouquets," said Mom. "You know, Macy, spring makes me think of my new life in Christ. Just like the trees and plants bud out with new growth, so do our lives when we trust in Jesus. God's Word reminds us that we are new creations who have the love of Jesus in our hearts and are able to share it with others."
"So, since I'm a Christian, I'm like a spring flower," said Macy. "I'm a new creation."
"Sometimes you don't smell like a spring flower though after you've been working in the barn," Jake said as he patted his little sister on the head.
"Jake!" Macy laughed. "Well, neither do you!"
Dad smiled. "All teasing aside, these beautiful spring flowers Macy picked for us can help us remember to be thankful for our new life in Christ."
–Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Did you know that when you trust Jesus as your Savior, you become a new creation? Jesus paid the price for our sins so that we could be made right with God and have eternal life with Him. He loves us that much. If you haven't trusted in Jesus yet, you can do it today and have new life! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (NLT) (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus gives us new life
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:9-16
It was a chilly afternoon in early October, and Ben and Grandpa were out on the deck planting bulbs in flowerpots. Grandpa showed Ben how to bury the bulbs deep beneath heaps of soft, powdery compost.
A week later, when Ben came to visit Grandpa again, he ran straight to the back door and looked eagerly for his daffodils and tulips. But all he saw was soil. "Why haven't my flowers grown, Grandpa?" he asked.
Grandpa chuckled. "Don't worry. They'll be here in the spring! You just have to be patient."
"The spring?" groaned Ben. "But that's forever!"
"It'll be here before you know it," said Grandpa.
Winter weather arrived. Christmas came and went. And before long, Ben had forgotten all about his bulbs. Then one spring day, it happened.
"Ben, come look!" Grandpa said, beckoning Ben out to the deck.
Ben gasped as he caught sight of his pot. It was filled with wonderful, colorful blooms! They looked so vibrant against the pale spring sky.
"Worth waiting for?" asked Grandpa. Ben nodded.
Later that evening, Ben groaned as he tried to memorize his verse for church. He kept getting the words muddled up.
"What have you got there?" asked Grandpa, looking up from his crossword puzzle.
Ben heaved a sigh. "It's a memory verse, but I can't seem to remember it!" He tossed the sheet of paper to one side and reached for his video game.
"You know," said Grandpa, "learning Bible verses is a bit like planting bulbs. You go out into the cold and bury bulbs in the earth, and then you wait. Nothing. And then you wait some more. Still nothing. And then one day, when you've almost forgotten about them, you turn around and there they are, poking their cheery little heads up out of the soil!"
Ben looked out at his flowerpot and smiled. He was really glad he'd taken the time to plant the bulbs. "But how is that like learning verses?"
"As you meditate on God's Word, you bury it deep down in your heart so the Holy Spirit can use it to remind you of the truth and promises of Jesus. Sometimes you forget it's even there. But one day, the perfect verse pops into your head, just when you need it most! Don't give up, Ben. Keep learning those verses!"
–Angela Jelf
How About You?
Do you know why learning Bible verses is so important? Like planting a bulb or a seed, you might not notice much change at first. But bit by bit, as you meditate on God's Word, the Holy Spirit makes His promises begin to take root inside you. Then, in due season, it will spring up and flourish. Keep reading the Bible and learning what it says, and trust God to fill your life with beautiful blooms!
Today's Key Verse:
Your Word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Hide God's Word in your heart
Bible Reading: Romans 12:3-8
Kayleigh looked out the window as the familiar countryside whizzed past on the way to her grandparents' house. "We're here!" she exclaimed when she spotted it. "I see Grandpa in the backyard with his bees."
She got out of the car and ran to the hives out back. As she approached, she saw her grandpa pull out a frame full of hundreds of bees.
"Looks like they're working hard!" said Kayleigh as she watched the busy bees scurry around the frame.
"Oh yes," said Grandpa. "The nurse bees are feeding the larva, the queen is laying the eggs, and other bees are cleaning or making honey. Bees even guard the entrance to the hive. Each of them has a special job so all the work gets done."
Kayleigh watched one bee clean out a tiny cell. It didn't seem like the most fun job to her. "What if the bees didn't want to do their jobs and stopped working?" she asked.
Grandpa raised his eyebrows. "Each job is vital to the hive, even the ones that don't seem as important. The colony wouldn't survive if the bees didn't do their work."
"Even the cleaning?" asked Kayleigh.
"Especially the cleaning!" Grandpa replied. "Bees are very hygienic." He looked at the bees on the frame thoughtfully. "It reminds me of what the Bible says in Romans. The church is one body with many members, just like the hive, and the members don't all have the same job. Some people teach, some lead, and others do things like serve those in need or find ways to encourage people. We need them all to have a healthy, functioning body of Christ that shares His love with the world."
"Do I have a job in the church?" Kayleigh asked.
Grandpa nodded. "We all have gifts and talents given to us by God. He will show you how you can use them to serve the church." Grandpa put the frame back into the hive. "And right now, little missy," he said with a smile, "I have a job for you."
"What's that?" replied Kayleigh.
"Go and ask Grandma when supper will be ready!"
Kayleigh smiled and gave a thumbs-up. "Now that's a job I can definitely do!"
–Tara Whicker
How About You?
Do you have a special gift that God has given you? Maybe it's encouragement or helpfulness or generosity. All our gifts are important in the body of Christ, and we should use them to serve the church. Trust God to guide your steps as you learn to recognize and use the gifts He has given you.
Today's Key Verse:
In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts...given to each of us. (NIV) (Romans 12:5-6)
Today's Key Thought:
All gifts are important
Bible Reading: Philippians 2:1-4; Titus 3:1-2
As his parents discussed plans for the coming weekend, Nolan took another helping of potatoes. "Hey! Pass the gravy," he said, interrupting their conversation. "And the salt too."
Dad frowned at him. "Didn't you notice that your mother and I were talking? You interrupted us. And whatever happened to saying 'please'?"
"Well, sorry," said Nolan. "But I need more gravy."
Mom shook her head. "Nolan, you're being very rude. That's been happening too much lately."
Nolan rolled his eyes. "It's not like we're out in a restaurant or at somebody's house or anything."
"You mean you'd use better manners in a restaurant?" asked Dad.
"Sure," said Nolan. "I try to remember to be polite when I'm with other people, but you don't expect me to be all proper around here at home, do you?"
"We certainly do!" said Mom. "You seem to think that you only need to have good manners when you're with other people, but that's not true. Being polite and respectful is one way to show others that we care about them, and that's important all the time--especially at home."
"Right," said Dad. "Developing good manners helps us think about others and how our actions affect them. It's one way we can show people the love of Jesus by putting their needs above our own. And home is the best place to practice."
Nolan frowned. "Practice?"
"Practice!" said Dad. "A football player practices to get ready for the Super Bowl, and a figure skater practices to get ready for the Olympics. And here at home, you can practice being thoughtful and respectful so you'll be ready to interact with others at school or in the neighborhood or anywhere else. Your mom and I will help you practice good manners here at home, and God will help you think of others and how you can show love and concern for them." He paused. "They say practice makes perfect, you know."
"Well, I'm sorry I was rude," murmured Nolan.
Dad smiled. "Apology accepted. I think you understand what we're saying. Do you have any questions?"
Nolan looked down at his plate and grinned. "Yes. Can I please have some more of that delicious gravy?"
–Bob Hostetler
How About You?
Does your behavior at home show respect and consideration of others? Or do you think that having good manners doesn't really matter around your family? Your home is the place God has provided for you to learn and practice behavior that shows love and kindness toward others. Let Him help you be considerate and respectful at home so you'll be prepared to think of others wherever you are.
Today's Key Verse:
Whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith. (NLT) (Galatians 6:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Show respect at home
Bible Reading: Matthew 22:1-14; John 6:37-40
"Mom," said Tia when she arrived home from school. "You're not going to believe this!"
"Believe what?" asked Mom.
"Kayla took a babysitting job on the day of my party! You'd think she could turn down one job! And McKenna isn't coming either. Her family is going to the zoo, and McKenna wants to go along." Tia looked at her guest list and crossed off the names Kayla and McKenna.
The next day, Tia was unhappy again. "Catherine forgot her cousin's wedding is on the day of my party," she told her mother. "And Zella says she has to take care of her little sister." Tia slumped into a chair. "You can't have a party without any guests! I think I'm just gonna call the whole thing off."
"Now, wait a minute!" Mom sat down next to her. "You've invited several other friends. Some of them are planning to come, right? They may have turned down other invitations so they can go to your party. It wouldn't be fair to them if you cancel."
Tia thought it over. "Okay. Then I'm going to throw the best party ever for the people who decide to come!"
On Sunday, Tia went to church with a friend who lived on her street. As she listened to the pastor speak, she was surprised by what she heard. "God offers each of us an invitation," he said. "He invites everyone to come to Him for forgiveness and eternal life through Jesus, who died on the cross for our sins. But we can often be more interested in living for ourselves now than thinking about eternity."
Tia had heard of Jesus dying on the cross, but she'd never thought of it as an invitation. She thought of her friends who had turned down her invitation to her birthday party. Had she refused God's invitation that had cost the life of His Son?
"Even if we don't accept His invitation at first, God's offer still stands," the pastor continued. "He's always willing to receive those who change their minds and put their trust in Jesus."
When the pastor ended his sermon with a prayer, Tia bowed her head and silently told God that she was ready to accept His invitation.
–Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Have you ever had someone reject something you offered? God offers us salvation through His Son, Jesus. Have you accepted His offer? Or have you turned it down? Don't reject Him any longer. When you accept His invitation to trust Jesus as your Savior, you'll receive God's gift of everlasting life. Don't wait. Trust in Jesus today! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said,] "The one who comes to me I will by no means cast out." (NKJV) (John 6:37)
Today's Key Thought:
Accept God's Invitation
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-39
CRASH! "Oh no!" Carrying a coffee mug with a broken handle, Quon shuffled into the living room where Mom was on her computer. "I broke Dad's favorite mug," he wailed. "It fell when I was taking it out of the dishwasher."
Mom took the mug and looked it over. "I know it was an accident, and Dad will understand. But I think we can fix it. Come with me."
Quon followed Mom to the kitchen, where she took a small tube from a drawer. She removed the cap and squeezed a tiny bead of glue onto each end of the handle. Then she pressed the broken handle to the mug and held it for a few seconds. When she cautiously let go of the handle, it stayed in place. Setting the mug on the counter, she stood back and looked at it. "There," she said. "We'll give it time to dry before we touch it again. Dad will still be able to use it."
"What will happen when we wash it?" asked Quon. "Won't the glue get wet and the handle come off again?"
Mom shook her head. "Not if this glue is as good as people say it is. According to the reviews online, nothing will be able to break the handle off that mug."
"I hope you're right," said Quon, picking up the tube of glue and reading the words printed on the side. "It says here that there's nothing in the world stronger than this glue."
"Well, it may be the strongest glue out there, but I can definitely think of something much, much stronger," said Mom.
"Really?" asked Quon. "What?"
"God's love. The Bible says that nothing can separate us from the love of God. His love is so strong that He sent His own Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins so we could have eternal life with Him."
Quon grinned. "You're right, Mom. No glue can hold up to that!"
Mom picked up the mug and handed it to Quon. "Better tell Dad what happened so he can be extra careful when he uses this."
"Okay, Mom," said Quon. "Thanks."
–Lynn Stamm Rex
How About You?
Did you know that you are loved by God, and that nothing will ever change that? Jesus died for you and then rose again so you could live with Him forever. No matter what you've done, He loves you and offers you forgiveness. No matter what problems you face, He loves you and will help you through them. No matter what happens in this world, God loves you. What a wonderful God!
Today's Key Verse:
Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our LORD. (NLT) (Romans 8:39)
Today's Key Thought:
God always loves you
Bible Reading: Titus 3:3-7
"Ew, Dad, that stinks!" Kallie held her nose dramatically.
Dad placed her baby brother on the changing table and unzipped his jammies. "Cash just needs a diaper change, that's all." He smiled down at the baby who wriggled on the mat. "Let's get you cleaned up, buddy."
Kallie looked on as Dad worked on cleaning up the baby. She scrunched her nose and frowned. "I don't know how you can do that every day," she said. "Don't you and mom ever get tired of changing his diaper?"
Dad chuckled. "Well, Kallie, I won't lie to you, I didn't always have a very good attitude about changing diapers. When you were a baby, I may have even grumbled a few times."
"Was I as stinky as Cash?" Kallie asked.
"Maybe even stinkier!" Dad teased.
"Why don't you still have a bad attitude?" Kallie asked.
Dad fastened the new diaper onto his son and zipped up the jammies. "It wasn't anything I did," he said. "But over time, as I changed more and more diapers, the Lord reminded me of something." Dad picked up Cash and gave him a kiss on his chubby cheek. "He helped me realize that He does something similar for me."
Kallie raised her eyebrows, confused about what Dad could mean.
"Cash isn't able to keep himself clean," Dad said. "He's just a baby! He needs someone to wash all the icky stuff off his skin and put him in a fresh diaper. That's sort of how it is with me. The Lord helped me realize that just like a baby needs someone to clean them, I needed Jesus to clean me of my sin. It's not something I can do on my own. Jesus washed me clean and made me a new person when I trusted in Him, and He continues to show me His grace and forgiveness each day."
"And so you don't mind changing diapers now because doing it reminds you of Jesus?"
"That's right. It's always an opportunity for me to remember how much my Father in heaven loves me, and how His mercy and grace cleanse me from all my sin."
-Emily Tenter
How About You?
Have you experienced the cleansing forgiveness of Jesus? It's impossible to clean ourselves from sin and make ourselves worthy of eternal life with God. Only Jesus can do that! Because of His life, sacrifice on the cross, and victory over death, He has the power to take away our sin and make us clean. Has he done that for you? (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (NKJV) (1 John 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus washes away our sin
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:13-18
Tate walked into the house, his arms loaded. "Mom, I'm all signed up for football," he said, dropping a big pile of football gear on the table.
"Great!" said Mom. She picked up a mouthpiece from the table. "What's this?"
Tate grinned. "It protects my teeth. We wear heavy padding, shin guards, helmets, mouthpieces--all kinds of protection."
"I'm glad to hear that!" Mom said. "Don't forget any of it."
"I won't," Tate assured her. "I've already learned how important it is. I forgot my mouthpiece when I went to practice the other day, and Coach Grimes wouldn't let me play without it, so I had to go get it. Good thing too. When I got back, I got a good knock on my chin in the very first play. I could have gotten hurt without it."
That evening, Tate showed his football gear to his dad. "I wore all that stuff back when I played football too," Dad told him. "In fact, I still wear special protective gear." Dad grinned at Tate's look of surprise. "It's called the armor of God. Do you know what the various pieces are?"
"Oh, that," said Tate. "One of them is a helmet--the helmet of salvation. We get it by trusting Jesus to save us from sin."
Mom nodded. "And one is called the breastplate of righteousness. We wear it by remembering that Jesus has made us right with God. Let's see…another says to buckle truth around our waists. That means we need to use God's truth to defend ourselves against Satan's lies."
"And our feet need to be ready to take us places where we can share the good news of Jesus with others," added Tate.
"I know one!" five-year-old Larson said enthusiastically. "We need swords. My teacher said the Bible is our sword."
"Good!" said Mom. "The Bible tells us the truth about God and who we are in Jesus. We also need the shield of faith so we can trust God no matter what."
"Why do we need all that equipment?" asked Dad.
"Because Satan wants us to take our eyes off Jesus and give in to sin and doubt," said Tate.
Dad nodded. "Right. The armor of God is even more important than your football gear, Tate. It protects us from Satan, our worst enemy."
-Doris Bantjes
How About You?
Are you wearing the armor of God? Have you put on the helmet of salvation by trusting Jesus as your Savior? When Satan whispers lies and tries to get you to sin or doubt, do you stand firm in the truth of Jesus? Do you remember that He has made you right with God and have faith that He is with you no matter what? Do you share that truth with others? Put on God's armor so you can stand strong against the devil.
Today's Key Verse:
Put on the full armor of God so that you can stand against the schemes of the devil. (CSB) (Ephesians 6:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Wear God's armor
Bible Reading: John 16:33; Revelation 21:1-5
Rowan walked out of his bedroom and rubbed his eyes. He was surprised to see Mom sitting at their small kitchen table. Usually she was in bed by the time he woke up for school, but this morning she sat, still in her uniform, looking weary.
"Hey, Mom," he greeted her. "What are you still doing awake? Aren't you tired?" Rowan's mom was a paramedic, and she worked the night shift driving an ambulance.
She gave him half a smile. "I wasn't ready to go to sleep," she said. "A lot of things happened while I was at work tonight, and I just needed a little time to…process all of them."
Rowan nodded. Ever since his family had moved into the city, Mom's job had gotten a lot more difficult. She saw scary things every day. Sometimes he'd overhear his parents talking about his mom's job. Her ambulance was called to help people who were hurt from drugs or gunshot wounds or car accidents. He knew his mom had to feel scared or sad a lot of the time.
He wrapped his arms around her. "I'm sorry, Mom." He wasn't sure how to comfort her. He hated seeing his mom so discouraged.
When Rowan finally pulled away to grab himself some cereal, he thought about what might encourage him if he were in Mom's position, and then he smiled. "You know, Mom, Mr. Rob from church read us a cool passage from Revelation on Sunday. It was all about how when Jesus comes back there will be no more death or crying or pain. Mr. Rob told us that Jesus is going to make everything new."
He watched his mom's eyes get misty, like she was right on the edge of crying.
"He also told us," Rowan went on, "that even though the world can be dark and scary and unfair sometimes, we have hope that Jesus will make everything perfect again someday because we trust in Him."
Mom swiped at her eyes with the sleeve of her uniform. "I think the Holy Spirit brought the perfect encouragement to me this morning," she said with a shaky voice. "Thank you."
Rowan smiled, and Mom hugged him again. "Maybe we can read that passage over breakfast, and then I think I'll get some rest."
-Emily Tenter
How About You?
Are you ever discouraged by the things that are happening in the world? Sometimes all the brokenness around us can feel like heavy burdens on our shoulders. Does it encourage you to know that Jesus is coming someday to make everything perfect and new again? If you trust Him as your Savior, you have hope because He defeated sin and death and promises that you will share in an eternity with Him that is perfect and complete.
Today's Key Verse:
There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. (NIV) (Revelation 21:4 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is going to make all things new!
Bible Reading: Psalm 19:12-14; Ephesians 4:15-16
"There goes Jade, the new girl," Hadley said to her friends at recess. "I saw her dad pick her up at school yesterday. He has a big scar on his face and looks like a criminal."
"What do you think he did?" asked Grace.
Hadley shrugged. "Who knows? Robbed a bank maybe."
As Hadley slid into her seat after recess, she heard Grace whisper to Payton, "Don't play with Jade--her dad's a bank robber."
The rumor flew and grew until nearly everyone in the class was whispering about Jade and avoiding her. A little voice in Hadley's heart said, Hadley, what have you done? But she tried not to listen.
When Hadley got home, she sprawled out on the lawn to enjoy the sunshine. She saw a dandelion that had gone to seed, so she picked it and blew on it. The seeds floated off into the air like dozens of tiny parachutes. "Oh dear!" said Mom, who had come out with a glass of lemonade. "Those little seeds are going to take root and create more pesky dandelions!"
"Oops!" said Hadley. "Sorry, but it's impossible to pick them back up. They're gone for good!"
Mom sat down in a lawn chair. "Well, if you hadn't blown them, the wind would have." She took a sip of her lemonade. "Those little seeds always remind me of words. Once words come out of our mouths, they're gone for good too. The good ones build people up, but the bad ones tear them down." Hadley squirmed as she remembered what she had said about Jade's father. "Before we say anything," continued Mom, "we should ask ourselves, 'Is what I'm about to say true? Is it helpful to anybody? Does it sound like something Jesus would say?' He always speaks the truth to us in love, and He'll help us do the same."
The little nagging voice of Hadley's conscience seemed to be shouting now. Her words about Jade's dad were definitely not kind or loving. They weren't even true! And even though she couldn't take back her words, she knew she had to do her best to make it right.
Hadley sighed as she got up and headed for the house. "I'm going inside," she told her mom. "I've got some texting to do."
-Matilda H. Nordtvedt
How About You?
What kind of words do you speak? Are they true? Kind? Do they build people up, or tear them down? Do they communicate the love of Jesus? Before you say anything, think about whether your words would be helpful or hurtful to others. Don't thoughtlessly blurt out anything that pops into your head. Instead, trust God to help you speak the kind of words He does--words that are truthful and loving.
Today's Key Verse:
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips. (NKJV) (Psalm 141:3)
Today's Key Thought:
Speak kind words
Bible Reading: Romans 11:5-6; Ephesians 2:1-10
Asher ran to the door when he heard boots on the stairs. "Dad!" he cried.
Dad scooped Asher up into a big hug. "I've missed you!" Dad said. "My work trip was only a few days, but it felt too long." Dad hugged Mom, then bent to unzip his suitcase. "I've got something for you." Dad handed Asher a bag.
Asher opened the bag. His face lit up when he saw his present. "Cool! Thanks, Dad!" Asher pulled out a small notebook with the Golden Gate Bridge on the cover.
"I thought you might like a new notebook for your drawings," Dad said.
Asher grinned. The first thing he would draw would be a thank-you card for Dad.
Before bedtime, Asher gave Dad the card.
"Asher, I love it! Thank you!" Dad said.
Asher smiled, then worked up the courage to ask the question he had been thinking about all day. "Dad, I've been wanting to ask you something." Asher took a deep breath. "How can I ever be good enough to go to heaven?"
Dad looked up from the card. "Why would you say that?"
"Because no matter how much good I do, I always do more bad things! Why would God let me into heaven if I can't do enough good things?" Asher asked.
"Asher, why did you give me this thank-you note? Why didn't you give me money instead to pay me back for the notebook?"
"But it was a gift!" Asher exclaimed.
"Exactly," Dad said. "Because it was a gift, you don't need to pay me for it. The same is true with our salvation. Jesus forgives our sins free of charge, just like a gift. All we need to do is receive His gift." Dad held up the thank-you card. "Our good works are just like this card. We can't use them to buy our way into heaven. Christians do good things because we are grateful to God for saving us and want to say thank you."
Asher thought about what Dad said. "I want to do that too. Can I ask Jesus to save me and then thank Him for His forgiveness?"
Dad smiled. "Let's pray."
-Olivia Summers
How About You?
Do you do good things because you want to get into heaven? The Bible says good works can't save us. The only way to be saved from sin and have eternal life is by trusting in Jesus, who died and rose again so our sins could be forgiven and we could have new life in Him. Trust Him to save you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then you can use your good works to show your gratitude and bless others.
Today's Key Verse:
And if by grace, then [salvation] cannot be based on works; if it were, grace would no longer be grace. (NIV) (Romans 11:6 )
Today's Key Thought:
Good works don't save
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:31-32
Brooklyn plopped into a chair at the kitchen table and wedged her cheeks between her fists. "I was just at Quinn's and asked if she wanted to go for a bike ride, but all she wants to do is sit on her porch and read," she told her mother. "She never wants to do anything I want to do. It's like she doesn't even want to be friends anymore!"
Mom wiped her hands on a dishtowel and took a seat next to Brooklyn. "Do you remember what happened when you and Quinn played your piano duet at the nursing home last month?"
"Yeah," Brooklyn grumbled. "Quinn lost her place in the music!"
Mom nodded. "And what did you do?"
Brooklyn thought for moment. "I kept playing. But what does that have to with riding bikes?"
"Well," said Mom, "sometimes, in the middle of a song--or even a friendship--our friends can forget how to play their music."
Brooklyn listened intently as her mom continued. "I'm sure Quinn didn't mean to hurt your feelings. Maybe she just doesn't feel like going biking or something happened that upset her. What you need to remember is that you can't control what Quinn thinks or what she does. All you can do is keep playing your music."
"I'm not sure I understand," Brooklyn said with a wrinkled brow.
"What I mean is, when things like this happen between you and your friends, all you can do is be sure you're making wise choices. You can choose to be patient and kind and have a good attitude even when things aren't going your way. You can choose to love your friend no matter what--the way Jesus loves us. Trust Him to help you take control of your thoughts and actions, and often the rest will fall into place."
"Just like our duet! When Quinn got lost, I kept playing, and it helped her find her way. It only took a few notes and then we played perfectly together for the rest of the song!"
"My point exactly," Mom said as she squeezed her tight. "Why don't you go back over to Quinn's? Maybe she's ready for that bike ride, or you could take a book along and read with her. Either way, I think you two have a duet to finish."
-Jennifer Allen
How About You?
Have you ever had a friend hurt your feelings? Do you get frustrated when things don't go your way? Sometimes our friends disappoint us and do things beyond our control. Though we can't control the actions of others, we can control how we respond. The next time a friend upsets you, remember to respond with love. Trust Jesus to help you be a patient, loving friend like He is.
Today's Key Verse:
How good and pleasant it is when God's people live together in unity! (NIV) (Psalm 133:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Seek unity in friendship
Bible Reading: Romans 3:10-12; 6:23
"There has been a lot of note-passing going on lately," announced Mrs. Barnes. "Anyone I see passing a note from now on will stay in at recess."
Cam nodded. He had noticed a lot of the kids passing notes too.
The next day, Cam watched as Lincoln and Josiah passed notes back and forth. They'd better watch it, he thought, or they're gonna have to stay in for recess. He decided to write a note to warn his friends to be careful.
As Cam slipped his note to Josiah, Mrs. Barnes looked up. "Cam, Josiah, and Lincoln--you will all stay in at recess today."
"Me?" asked Cam. "What did I do?"
"I saw you passing a note," said Mrs. Barnes. "You will stay in with the other boys." And so the three boys spent afternoon recess at their desks.
That evening, Cam complained about his punishment. "I wrote one note!" he grumbled. "The other guys wrote lots more. It's not fair!"
"How many notes did Mrs. Barnes say you could write?" asked Dad.
"Well…none. But I still think she could have let me play outside at least half the time since the others wrote so many more notes than I did!"
"Even though you only wrote one note, you were guilty as charged, weren't you?" said Dad.
"I guess, but I still wasn't as bad as the others," Cam insisted.
"Your argument reminds me of people who think God should excuse them because they don't think they're as bad as other people they know," said Dad. "The fact is that everyone has sinned, and the Bible says that makes each one of us a sinner guilty before God, no matter how our sins compare to someone else's. You passed a note in class knowing it was against the rules, and you got the punishment you deserved."
Cam sighed and propped his head on his elbows. "I guess I did deserve to stay in at recess," he finally admitted. He gave his dad a sideways glance. "You're gonna point out that we don't need to be punished for our sin though, aren't you?"
Dad grinned. "I sure am! Even though each one of us deserves that punishment, Jesus died on the cross to save us from it. He took the punishment for our sin so we wouldn't have to!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you think you're pretty good--better than a lot of kids you know? God says everyone is a sinner. We're all equally guilty of breaking God's law, and we all deserve to be punished. But the wonderful thing is that Jesus died to take the punishment for our sin. Instead of suffering the eternal death you deserve, you can have eternal life with God! Trust Jesus as your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it. (NIV) (James 2:10 )
Today's Key Thought:
All sin deserves punishment
Bible Reading: Matthew 10:29-31
"But I'm so scared!" Rebecca's little sister cried.
"I'm sorry, Cara, but you have to go. You'd better get your shoes on. We leave in fifteen minutes," Rebecca answered.
As Cara pulled on her clogs, she asked, "Rebecca, will it hurt very bad?"
"Well, it will hurt some. When the dentist pulls a tooth, it hurts for a little while. But the pain won't last very long," Rebecca tried to assure her sister.
Tears filled Cara's eyes. "Rebecca, I'm really, really scared. Scareder than you've ever been!"
Rebecca sat down on the bed. "Cara, do you want to know what you can do to help you not be so afraid?" When Cara nodded, she went on. "Whenever we're afraid, we can trust the Lord. We can pray He will help us remember that He's with us and that we can trust Him!"
Cara looked up at her sister. "I thought we prayed to God for big things like when someone is really sick or dying. Are you sure He'd hear my prayer about having a little tooth pulled?"
"God hears every prayer," Rebecca said as she took her Bible from her desk. "Matthew 10:29-31 says, 'Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father's care. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.' See, Jesus told us that God even cares for the sparrows. And you're way more important than a sparrow, Cara! God gave His own Son so you could be saved and belong to Him. He loves you and wants you to go to Him for help when you're afraid."
"So God hears even the tiniest prayer?"
"Yes!"
"All right," Cara said. "I'll pray and ask God to help me."
Cara knelt down beside Rebecca's bed. "Dear God," she prayed, "please help me not be so scared when I go to the dentist. Please help it not hurt a lot. Thank you that I'm worth more than a sparrow. Amen."
Just then Mom called, "Girls! It's time to go!"
Cara jumped up and turned to Rebecca. "I'm so glad God cares about me!"
"Me too!" Rebecca answered.
-Evie Newton
How About You?
Do you worry about little things? Do you ever pray about these things and wonder if God cares? He does care! God cares even for sparrows, and you are worth so much more to Him than they are! Jesus died for your sins so you could be God's child. Bring your worries to Him, knowing He cares and promises to help you.
Today's Key Verse:
Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. (NIV) (Matthew 10:31)
Today's Key Thought:
God cares about you
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:18-27
"Whoa! Why the long face?" asked Bristol's dad as she came in the back door.
Bristol frowned. "I was hoping to get a part in our youth pageant, but instead I have to make props. Carrie got picked for the lead." She saw that her dad was putting on his beekeeper's outfit and quickly changed the subject. "I want to go with you to the beehives!"
"Okay," Dad said, so Bristol quickly slipped into her own bee suit, and they went out to the hives.
At the beehives, Bristol watched as Dad pulled a honeycomb from one of them. "Oh good!" he said. "There obviously are workers in this hive. I'm glad there aren't just queen bees here, aren't you?"
Bristol was puzzled. "There's never more than one queen bee in a hive, Dad. You know that."
"Yes, well, that's a good thing too. Queen bees don't make honey, and I like honey!" Dad checked each of the remaining hives and took out additional honeycombs. "As it is, you could say each hive is a self-sufficient super-organism."
Bristol rolled her eyes. "English, Dad! You know I don't like talking scientifically."
Dad chuckled. "How about biblically?"
"Biblically?" Bristol gave her dad a confused look as they walked toward the house.
Dad nodded. "In the beehive, each bee needs to do its job so the whole thing works together efficiently. The bees can't all be drones. They can't all be worker bees either. And they can't all be queens. Each kind of bee is needed. It's that way in the church too--what the Bible calls the body of Christ. Jesus gives Christians different jobs to do so we can work together to share the gospel--the message of hope about what Jesus did to save us--with the world. Even in all the everyday things we do--schoolwork, chores, church service, or whatever--in everything, all kinds of workers are needed."
Bristol sighed. "You're talking about our youth pageant, aren't you? You're saying the job of making props is just as important as the lead part, right?"
Dad nodded. "By making props, you'll be doing your part to help share the love of Jesus with others."
"Okay," Bristol said. "Then I'll be busy as a bee making props!"
-Dolores A. Lemieux
How About You?
Are you content with what God has given you to do? Or do you often wish for a better, more important position? The Bible says no position in God's family of believers is better than another. Each one of us is a sinner saved by His grace, and we've all been given different roles in helping more people know about Him. Do your part in whatever work He's given you so we can share the gospel as the body of Christ.
Today's Key Verse:
Whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God. (NIV) (1 Corinthians 10:31)
Today's Key Thought:
All tasks are important
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:19-21, 33
Miles dreamed about the hoverboard he was saving up for as he raked leaves in his grandmother's yard. His dad had agreed to pay him for his help since Grandma couldn't rake them herself, and Miles was brainstorming more ways to earn some extra money. Maybe some of his neighbors would pay him to rake their leaves.
Just then, he noticed a large hole in the base of a big tree. "Look, Dad!" he called as he knelt to peer inside. "I never noticed this before. This would be a good place to hide stuff."
Dad walked over to look. "Maybe there's a cache of jewels or a sack of stolen money inside," he teased. He poked his rake into the hole, and they heard a scraping sound as the rake hit a metal object.
"Something is hidden in there!" exclaimed Miles. Plunging his hand inside the cavity, he felt around and finally pulled out a small box. "Wow! A real treasure chest! I wonder who put it there." Miles eagerly opened the old box and looked inside. He felt a pang of disappointment when the treasure turned out to be a soggy pair of shoelaces, a rusty pocketknife, and a moldy book about fishing.
"Somebody must have hidden these things and then forgot about them," said Dad. "Now look at them. I hope whoever stored these here put most of their treasures in a better place."
"Yeah. Somewhere they won't get ruined, like in a closet or one of those safe deposit boxes at the bank."
"I was thinking of an even better place than that," said Dad. "Jesus said we should store our treasures in heaven, where they'll never be ruined or stolen." Dad shook his head. "We often put so much emphasis on material things like houses and clothes and cars…"
And hoverboards, thought Miles.
"We need to remember those things won't last," said Dad. "The only treasure that lasts is found in Jesus--being saved from sin and having a relationship with Him for all eternity."
Miles nodded as he looked at the rusty pocketknife. I still want a hoverboard, he thought. But I'm glad I already have what really matters--treasure in heaven. He put the box back into the hole in the tree and picked up his rake.
-Ellen C. Orr
How About You?
Is there something you really want? Maybe it's something your friends have or something you saw on TV. It's okay to enjoy things like that, but remember that treasures on earth don't last--anything you buy will eventually get old or wear out. The only treasure that lasts forever is free--eternal life with Jesus. When the focus of your life is on Him instead of material things, you are storing treasure in heaven, where it will last forever.
Today's Key Verse:
Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. (NLT) (Matthew 6:20 )
Today's Key Thought:
Store treasures in heaven
Bible Reading: Romans 5:6-11
"There you are!" Miss Jayla called brightly as Cassidy joined the other kids. Normally one of the first to arrive, Cassidy had been late to children's church that morning. She had tripped on the stairs while walking to class, and some of the kids had laughed at her. Embarrassed, Cassidy had sought a few minutes of alone time in the bathroom.
Now, she plodded to her seat, where the day's activities dragged by as Cassidy waited to ask Miss Jayla the questions whirling in her mind.
"What's going on, Cassidy? You look troubled," Miss Jayla said when most of the kids had been picked up at the end of the morning.
"I need to ask you something. I know I could talk to my foster mom, but I don't want her to get mad at me."
"Let's sit down." Miss Jayla directed them to bean bags by the door so she could watch for other parents arriving.
"I need to know how God punishes us," Cassidy began. "I want to know if God is punishing me if I bump into a table and hurt myself. Or when I stub my toe. Or today…I stumbled on the steps. Does God let me get hurt because I did something bad?"
"I'm glad you asked! No, God doesn't let you trip on stairs or bang into a table to punish you, sweetie. Sometimes accidents happen. But those are not punishments for things we do wrong. Do you remember who Jesus is, Cassidy?"
"Jesus is God's Son who came down to earth, died on a cross, then returned to life," Cassidy answered.
Miss Jayla nodded. "Do you know the reason He died?"
Cassidy shrugged.
"Wrong things we do--what the Bible calls sin--must be punished because our sins go against what God says is good," Miss Jayla explained. "But God wanted to save us from that punishment, which is death and separation from Him. So He sent Jesus, who lived a perfect life, to take our place and pay for our sins so we can be forgiven." Miss Jayla smiled at Cassidy. "That's how much He loves us."
Cassidy took a moment to think about that. "If Jesus died so I could be forgiven, I want to ask Him to pay for my sins too!"
-Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Do you ever wonder if God is punishing you when things go wrong in your life? We live in a sinful, broken world, and that means bad things just happen sometimes. But God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to save us. Jesus took the punishment we deserve by dying on the cross for our sins. If you trust in Him, you can be confident that all your sins are forgiven by God! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (NKJV) (Romans 5:8 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus paid for our sins
Bible Reading: John 14:15-27; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Kenna wrapped her arms around Milo, her orange tabby cat. A single tear slipped onto her kitty's furry face. Kenna felt more tears inside her, but she was tired from crying every day for the past week, and she didn't know if any more tears would come. "God, I miss my Mom. Why did you take her to heaven?" Kenna's whispered words hung in the air.
Mom had been sick for a couple of weeks, and everyone had been praying. Even when she went to the hospital, Kenna had been a little scared, but she really thought her mom would come home. "I feel so alone." Kenna rubbed her cheek against Milo's soft fur. She thought about her mom's smile--so bright, always full of joy, even when she had to go through her many surgeries over the years.
Kenna remembered her mom reading the Bible to her just a few months back. "Kenna-girl, do you know how much God loves you?" Mom had cupped Kenna's face in her hands. "I want you to remember that He is always with you. What did we just read in John chapter fourteen about how we know God is with us?"
"He gave us the Holy Spirit."
"That's right! Because you belong to Jesus, you have the Holy Spirit in you to be with you and remind you of everything He has said. He will never leave you, and He gives you His peace."
Kenna pulled out her pink Bible and found John 14. She read verse 18--I will not leave you as orphans. "God, I feel so alone because I really miss my mom. Will you keep reminding me of what You say--that You will never leave me? I'm not an orphan because I have You. Will you give my mom a big hug from me and tell her I'm going to shine my light for You just like she did?"
Kenna hugged her cat close. "Milo, I'm sad Mom isn't here anymore, but I have hope because I know she's in heaven with Jesus, and He promises He'll never leave either one of us." Kenna scratched Milo's chin as he purred. "One day, I will see Mom again and give her the biggest hug ever! I may feel alone right now, but I know Jesus is with me."
-Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Have you ever lost someone you love? When someone close to you dies, sorrow and the feeling of being alone can seem like it's never going to end. If you're a child of God, you have hope to hold on to. You are never alone because Jesus is always with you. He will be with you in your loneliness and sorrow, and one day He will wipe all your tears away (Revelation 21:3-4).
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. (NIV) (Deuteronomy 31:8 )
Today's Key Thought:
God is with you always
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:9-16
"Look, Dad," said Tristan. "A chipmunk!"
Dad joined Tristan at the window and together they watched the little creature strip an ear of corn from the compost pile. "Look at him peel off those kernels!" said Tristan. "He eats fast!"
"He's not eating them," said Dad. "He's stuffing the kernels into little pouches in his cheeks. Watch what he does with them now."
Tristan watched as the chipmunk scurried over to the woodpile. He laughed when he saw what the little rodent did next. "He's using his hind foot to push the corn out of his cheeks!"
"He's storing it in spaces between the chunks of wood so it'll be there when he needs it later on," Dad explained.
Tristan and his dad watched for several minutes as the tiny animal dashed back and forth from the ear of corn to the woodpile. "I can't believe how much he can store in his cheeks!" Tristan said after a few minutes. "He's got all the kernels stripped from the cob already."
Dad nodded. "You know, Tristan, God has built a storage system into us too."
"I don't have any pouches in my cheeks to carry food," said Tristan, laughing at the idea.
Dad grinned at him. "I was thinking of a different kind of food--spiritual food. You store it in your heart, not in your cheeks."
"Spiritual food?" asked Tristan. "Oh, you mean like the Bible verses I have to learn for church, right?"
"Exactly," said Dad. "The Bible calls it hiding God's Word in our hearts. As we meditate on God's Word by learning what the Bible says and storing its truth in our hearts, it helps strengthen us spiritually. When we store it away, God brings it back to our minds when we need it. It can help us in times of trial or testing--like when we're going through a difficult situation or when we're tempted to sin--by reminding us of God's love and the power and hope He's given us through Jesus."
Dad nodded toward the chipmunk. "The corn being stored by that little guy will be there for him when he needs it in the cold winter months, and the verses we memorize will be there whenever we need them."
-Trula H. Bensinger
How About You?
Are you storing God's Word in your heart? Are you reading the Bible, studying it at church, and memorizing verses so you can carry His truth and promises with you wherever you go? Memorizing verses is a great way to store God's Word in your mind and heart so it will always be there, ready for whenever you need it. A good way to memorize a verse is to read it out loud three times a day for a week--by the end of the week, you probably won't even have to look at the page!
Today's Key Verse:
Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against you. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Memorize Bible verses
Bible Reading: Psalm 34:4-9, 17-19; Romans 8:28
Lucy didn't feel like going on the class field trip to the rock quarry. She just wanted Ginger, her lost cat, to come home and her dad to get his job back. I just want everything to be okay again, she thought as she got off the bus with the rest of the kids.
The quarry foreman handed out hard hats to everyone. "We're going to have a dynamite blast today to loosen and break the stone in the quarry," he said, motioning to the other side of a large pit. A loud horn blared. "After the horn blasts three times, cover your ears!" the foreman called out. The horn sounded two more times, and then--BOOM! A loud explosion sent dust and rocks flying. Once the all-clear horn sounded, the foreman let the kids move closer so they could see what had happened. "Don't worry, kids. They've got it all under control," he said, pointing to the workers who controlled the operation and set off the blasts.
When Lucy got home, she picked up one of Ginger's cat toys as she told her mom about the quarry trip. "Sometimes I feel like everything's being blown apart here at home too," said Lucy.
"I know, honey. When bad things happen it can feel like our whole world is being blown to pieces. Maybe that's when we should remember the workers at the quarry."
"The workers?" asked Lucy. "Why them?"
"They made sure the blasts were safe and controlled, right?" asked Mom. Lucy nodded. "They remind us that someone is in control of our lives too--God. Nothing can happen to us unless He allows it, and He promises to be with us and see us through whatever experiences we face."
"But why does He let bad things happen--like Ginger getting lost and Dad losing his job?" asked Lucy.
"Well, there's no easy answer to that, but remember the workers need the explosions in the quarry to loosen the stone, otherwise they wouldn't be able to get it out. Perhaps God allows explosions in our lives at times to loosen our hearts and get good things out--things like growing in our relationship with Jesus and showing His love to others who are going through hard times."
-Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Have you had difficult things happen to you recently? It's okay to feel sad about it, but remember that God is in complete control. Jesus understands how you feel because He suffered too, and He'll be with you through whatever hard situations you have to face. Trust Him to bring good things into your life out of difficulties and to use them to make you more like Him.
Today's Key Verse:
The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all. (NIV) (Psalm 34:19)
Today's Key Thought:
God is in control
Bible Reading: Luke 6:43-45; Galatians 5:22-23
"Mom!" Tucker shouted as he dashed into the house. "A dump truck just hit the curb, and now there's a huge pile of gravel blocking our street! Come out and see it."
"I can't leave this pizza sauce right now," Mom said as she sprinkled oregano into the bubbling red mixture she was stirring on the stove. "I'll come out as soon as it's finished."
"Well, I hope they get rid of the gravel before Dad tries to come home," said Tucker. "He won't get past that pile on the road!"
"He may have to go a bit out of his way, but I'm sure he'll find a way to get here," said Mom.
By the time Dad came home, the road had been cleared. Tucker was kneading dough for the pizza crust as he told his dad the story of how the dump truck spilled its load. "All that gravel fell out when the truck hit the curb," said Tucker. "Good thing they had a big scooper to clean up the mess."
"Good thing." Dad nodded thoughtfully. "You know, people are like that truck."
"What?" Tucker asked in surprise. "How?"
"We all run into curbs at some point--bumpy times in our lives," Dad explained. "When we do, whatever is in our hearts comes spilling out."
"That's right," said Mom. "If we trust in Jesus and depend on Him to guide the way we think and act, His love in our lives will be evident to others by the way we treat them, even when things aren't going so well. But if we ignore God and live life however we want, the pride and selfishness in our hearts comes spilling out when we face a difficult situation."
Dad nodded as he tasted the pizza sauce and sprinkled a little more oregano into it. "When we hit a curb in life, the contents of our hearts spill out for everyone to see. That's why it's important to have a relationship with Jesus and trust Him to help us love others. Then when we face a bumpy situation, others will see that He's filled our hearts with good things."
-Dalan Decker
How About You?
What happens when you hit a curb in the road of life? Do you look to Jesus for help? Or do you complain and lash out at those around you? You can often see the way people really are when they're going through hardship. If you know Jesus as your Savior, you have His goodness and love in your heart. Trust Him to help you show it through your words and actions, even when the hard times come along.
Today's Key Verse:
What people say with their mouths comes from what fills their hearts. (ERV) (Luke 6:45)
Today's Key Thought:
Show love in hard times
Bible Reading: Matthew 1:21; Acts 4:10-12
"Elliot, you can open the door to the house while I get the groceries from the trunk," said Mom. She pulled the keys from the ignition and held on to one as she handed them to him. "This is--"
But Elliot grabbed the ring and scrambled out of the car in a flash. He ran to the door and eagerly shoved in a key. The lock wouldn't turn. He fumbled with the jangling keys and selected another one. It wouldn't even go in. Frustrated, he tried one more, then yelled, "Mom! Which one?"
Mom gently took the key ring from him. "It's the one I was holding," she said. "I tried to tell you, but you bolted out of the car before I could finish." She held out a short silver key.
Sheepishly, Elliot slid the key in and unlocked the door. He returned the key ring with a grin. "I guess there's only one key that will work."
Mom smiled as she loaded his arms with groceries. "Yes, and that's true for more than one thing. Only one key for the house, one for the car--and even only one for heaven. And you know what? Many people--even adults--don't know what key is needed to get into heaven."
"What do you mean?" asked Elliot as he followed his mother into the bright kitchen.
Mom set the groceries on the table and began putting them away as she explained. "God sent His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for our sins so we could be saved and have eternal life. But instead of receiving that key to salvation, people often try their own imitations." She turned to Elliot and dangled the key ring in front of him. "Remember how you felt when you tried to use the wrong keys?"
"Yeah--locked out!" said Elliot.
"If the key we use to get to heaven isn't the right one, we'll be locked out of there too," said Mom. "We may go to church and try to be good and do what looks to us like the right thing, but doing those things won't open the door to salvation and eternal life. Jesus is the only key--the only way--to heaven. No other key will work."
-Jean A. Burns
How About You?
What key are you hoping will get you into heaven? Do you think going to church or being good will open heaven's door for you? Those are good things to do, but they won't save you. You can only get into heaven through Jesus. Trust Him as your Savior today and know for sure you have the right key. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
I [Jesus] am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. (NKJV)
(John 14:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is the key to heaven
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:29; James 3:5-10
"Look what Otis did!" Maria showed her father her soggy, torn slipper. "I scolded him and put him outside."
"I'm sorry, honey," Dad said as he took the mangled slipper. "I can see that little puppy needs a lot more training."
Mom spoke from the doorway. "Maria, Iris is on the phone for you." She held out her phone.
A few minutes later, Maria's voice boomed from the kitchen. "You always want me to do all the work, Iris. You're so lazy! I'm never doing a school project with you again."
"What was that about?" asked Mom when Maria returned her phone. "I thought Iris was your best friend."
"She…she just caught me at a bad time," mumbled Maria.
"Did your sister catch you at a bad time too?" asked Mom. "I heard you yell at her this morning."
Maria blushed. "She always bothers me when I'm tired. But I told her I was sorry." Maria brightened. "I'll call Iris back and apologize to her."
Just then Otis whined at the door. "I think Otis wants to come in and apologize too," said Dad, handing the chewed-up slipper to Maria.
Maria looked at it. "Don't let him in," she grumbled crossly. "My slipper is ruined because of him."
Dad nodded. "You know, Maria, even if you forgive Otis and let him in, it won't fix your slipper. That's mangled for good."
"I know that," said Maria. "That's why I'm mad at him!"
"Well, feelings can be mangled just like your slipper," said Dad. "Once you've said something, it really can't be taken back. You can be sorry and say so, but the words have already hurt. Often there is no way to repair the damage."
"That's right," said Mom. "There are several people you need to apologize to, but even if they forgive you, you've still hurt their feelings. You need to be more careful to control your tongue and not say hurtful things in the first place."
"But I…I don't know how," said Maria.
"Think before you speak," said Dad. "When you feel angry, count to ten before you say anything. Most of all, remember that Jesus gives you the ability to love others the way He does. Trust Him to help you speak in love, not anger."
-Harriett A. Durrell
How About You?
Do you say things you don't mean? It's so easy to do. The Bible has a lot to say about how much trouble your tongue can cause. It also gives the cure--let the love of Christ in your heart control what you say. If you've had trouble controlling your tongue, apologize to those you've hurt. Then use your words to encourage others and solve problems in a loving way.
Today's Key Verse:
The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. (NIV)
(Proverbs 12:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Use your words in a loving way
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 10:11-13
"Sarah, Lynn, you need to start packing," Mom said. "The hurricane has turned and is heading this way. They're evacuating the barrier islands."
Sarah quickly jumped into action and started packing, but Lynn began to cry. "I'm scared!"
"It's going to be okay, Lynn," said Mom. "We'll be gone before the storm hits. We'll follow the escape plan and head north to Grandma and Grandpa's house."
Once the car was packed and the house was boarded up, they got on the road. The traffic leaving the islands was already backed up for miles. It was going to take a while to reach the mainland, and from there it would take another four hours to get to Grandma and Grandpa's house. Good thing Lynn and Sarah packed a lot of toys.
When they finally arrived, the girls gave each of their grandparents a big hug and then ran into the backyard to play. It felt good to be out of the car and running around again.
The next day when Grandpa was watching the news, Sarah and Lynn saw the damage the storm was doing as it ripped through the islands. Then it showed footage of people being rescued from rooftops.
"I thought everyone had to leave the islands," Sarah said.
"They were supposed to, but some chose to stay," said Grandpa.
Lynn frowned. "Why didn't they escape when they had the chance?"
"Some probably chose not to heed the warnings. Others probably didn't have a way to leave." Grandpa turned off the TV. "Did you know there's one situation where we always have the option to escape? The Bible says that whenever we're tempted to sin, God provides a way out."
"He gives us an escape plan out of temptation?" asked Sarah.
Grandpa nodded. "We have a choice to make whenever we're tempted to do something that's wrong. Do we choose God's escape plan and use the power He gives us to say no to sin, or do we choose to give in to the temptation and then face the consequences of our bad choices?"
"Well, I sure am glad Mom and Dad got us safely off the island before the hurricane hit," Sarah said.
"Me too!" said Lynn. "And next time I'm tempted to do something wrong, I want to follow God's escape plan."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you ever been tempted to do something that you knew was wrong? God always provides a way of escape for us when we are tempted to sin. If you know Jesus as your Savior, He has given you the power to resist temptation and say no to sin. Trust Him to show you a way out, then be willing to follow His plan.
Today's Key Verse:
God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out. (NLT)
(1 Corinthians 10:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Choose to escape temptation
Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:5-6; Romans 8:28-32
"Hi, Mom," said Clara as she walked into her mom's hospital room. It seemed so strange to see Mom in a hospital bed. "You feeling okay?"
Mom nodded. "They only did tests today. The surgery isn't until tomorrow, but don't worry. I'm in very good hands." She pointed to a bag Clara was carrying. "What did you bring?"
"I brought a puzzle." Clara dumped the pieces onto Mom's bedside table. "It's just a small one, and I figured we could put it together."
"Good idea!" said Mom, and they began searching for edge pieces.
As Clara worked, so many questions filled her mind. Will Mom's surgery be really painful for her? Will it make her well? And the scariest question of all… Could Mom die during the surgery? But she didn't want to worry her mother, so she kept her thoughts to herself.
"I can't figure out where this piece goes," Clara said, frowning.
Mom smiled at her. "I'm glad you brought a puzzle. It's kind of like my life right now. Being sick and needing surgery is like that piece of the puzzle. You don't know how it fits in the picture, and I don't know where this experience fits into the picture of my life. But knowing that God promises to work everything for good and seeing how He's already put some other pieces of my life together helps me trust Him now too."
"What do you mean?" asked Clara.
"Well, one example is the way God worked when Dad lost his job," said Mom. "We couldn't understand how that would fit in the picture of our lives. Then God provided a job for him in this city where Dr. Campbell practices. He's the best doctor in the country for the surgery I need."
"God is taking care of you, right?" said Clara slowly. "And He'll take care of you tomorrow, won't He?"
Mom nodded. "Even if the surgery isn't successful, I know He'll take care of me because I belong to Jesus and will spend eternity with Him." She squeezed Clara's hand. "I don't understand how this fits into my life, but He does, and I trust Him to put the picture together for me. Will you trust Him too?"
Clara nodded. She was finally able to give her mother a little smile.
-Katherine R. Adams
How About You?
Are there events in your life that you don't understand? Take comfort knowing Jesus is with you in hard times and promises to work everything out, even though you may not understand it now. God sees the total picture of your life, and He's fitting the pieces--the events in your life--into just the right places. Even when bad things happen, you can trust Him to help you through them and bring good out of them.
Today's Key Verse:
We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who are called according to his purpose. (CSB)
(Romans 8:28)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God to work for your good
Bible Reading: John 10:27-29
"You look sad, Kevin. What are you thinking about?" Mom finished drying her hands on the kitchen towel she was holding and hung it back up on the rack.
"Well…" Kevin gulped. "Remember how I got saved in Sunday school a few months ago? Well, I think I might not be saved anymore! I keep doing bad things. I disobey you all the time. I lied to my teacher about my homework. I said something mean to Justin when we were playing that video game the other day. Justin says I'm going to lose my salvation if I keep doing all these bad things!"
Mom was quiet for a moment, then she said, "Let's go to the park."
Kevin wiped his nose on his sleeve and slid off the couch. He grabbed his battered stuffed kangaroo and headed to the park with his mom.
"Better leave Joey with me," Mom said when they got to the park. "You don't want to lose him on the playground."
Kevin reluctantly handed his kangaroo over to his mom for safekeeping. Then he ran off to play.
Later, at home, Kevin started crying. "Mom! I can't find Joey anywhere! I think I lost him at the park. Now he's gone forever and I'll never see him again!"
"You didn't lose him. I was keeping him for you, remember?" She pulled the stuffed animal out of her bag and handed him to Kevin.
Kevin grabbed Joey and squished him to his chest. He was so happy his favorite little friend wasn't lost!
"Kevin," Mom said, "remember how you were asking about losing your salvation? This is a good illustration of how salvation works. When you trusted Jesus as your Savior, He forgave your sins and gave you eternal life as a child of God. That's what salvation is--the promise that we have been freed from sin's power and will live with God forever as His people. If you had to keep your salvation safe all by yourself, you would lose it. But Jesus not only gives us salvation for free--He is also the one who keeps it for us! You can't lose your salvation because Jesus is holding it for you."
-Kristi Van Winkle
How About You?
Are you afraid of losing your salvation? Do you worry that if you do too many bad things you won't be a Christian anymore? Your salvation is not based on anything you do--it's a gift from God, and you don't ever have to worry about losing it! You're God's child now, and nothing will change that. When you do something that's wrong, He will forgive you and help you do better. Jesus is the one who holds your salvation, and He promises to keep it safe.
Today's Key Verse:
I give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. (CSB)
(John 10:28 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus holds your salvation
Bible Reading: Romans 12:9-18; Galatians 4:6-7
"Mom, who do I look like?" asked Avia while her mother braided her hair.
"Who do you look like?" repeated Mom. "Well, let's see." Mom gently tugged on Avia's hair. "Duck," she said.
"I look like a duck?" Avia laughed, knowing Mom meant for her to tip her head so she could braid the hair at the bottom of her neck.
Mom laughed too, then took a long look at both their faces in the mirror. "Actually, that's an easy question. You look more like your father--more so every day." Avia's father had died when she was very small. "You remind me of your dad so much. You not only resemble him in appearance; you act like him too. You eat just as fast as he did," Mom teased as they walked to the kitchen to fix breakfast.
"Isn't it weird that I hardly knew Dad, but now I look like him and act like him?" Avia asked as she set the table. "You always say I like the same foods he did--asparagus and beets and even sandwiches with pickles and peanut butter on them! I wonder how come I'm so much like him when he's not here for me to copy?"
"I believe you do those things naturally because Dad is a part of you. He's passed on some of his characteristics to you--like similar taste buds," said Mom as she poured apple juice. "You also act like him in other ways because you've heard stories about him and have started doing some of the same things he used to do--like seeing how many old cars you can spot on a road trip." She smiled at Avia. "It's kind of like what happens when someone becomes a child of God."
"You mean because He's our heavenly Father, but we don't see Him--just like I don't see Dad?" asked Avia.
Mom nodded. "We don't see God, but we act like Him because the Holy Spirit--who is God--lives in us. We read about God in the Bible and see glimpses of Him in the lives of other Christians. And we talk about what He does in our lives." Mom squeezed Avia's hand. "With God's help, we become more and more like our heavenly Father every day!"
-Dawn E. Maloney
How About You?
Can others tell that God is your heavenly Father by the way you live? Do your words and actions make it easy for people to identify you as a child of God? Today's Bible reading lists a number of things that describe how God's children should live. Trust the Lord to develop these characteristics in your life so others will see your heavenly Father in you.
Today's Key Verse:
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. (NLT)
(Ephesians 5:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Live like a child of God
Bible Reading: Psalm 25:1-5; Lamentations 3:24-26
"I don't really see the use of praying about things," Abigail said as she hobbled to the refrigerator one morning. "I've been praying my sprained ankle would heal, but God hasn't answered my prayer." She rummaged around in the fridge. "Where's the orange juice?"
"I'm afraid we ran out," said Mom. "But there are some oranges in there--why don't you squeeze one of those?"
Abigail shook her head. "That takes too long," she said, shutting the refrigerator door. "I'll just buy some from the vending machine at school."
"Mom!" Jude called out from the family room. "The internet's not working again!" Mom and Abigail heard him get up to restart the wireless router. "This thing is so annoying," he grumbled loudly.
Abigail groaned. "That router needs to be replaced. Even when it does work, the internet's really slow. It took me forever to look up facts about mammals for my science homework last night."
"Really?" said Mom. "It took you forever?"
"Well, twenty minutes."
Mom smiled and shook her head. "It sounds like our gotta-have-it-now culture is giving you and Jude an instant gratification mentality." She eyed Abigail thoughtfully. "And judging from what you said a few minutes ago, it sounds like that attitude might be creeping into your prayer life too!"
Abigail frowned. "What's an instant gratification mentality?"
"It's when we're so used to having things right away that the smallest delay becomes unacceptable to us--like having an internet connection that's not lightning-fast or taking a few minutes to squeeze an orange," Mom explained. "It can make us think God should answer our prayers instantly too."
Abigail shrugged. "Okay, but we're supposed to expect answers, aren't we?"
"Yes, but asking God for answers to prayer isn't the same as looking up answers to homework on the internet," said Mom. "God's timing doesn't always match ours--He is much more patient than we are. Jesus patiently walks with us through the difficult circumstances we face in life--such as a sprained ankle that needs time to heal--so we can learn to trust Him and become more like Him. When we remember how patient and caring He is with us, we can be patient and wait for His answers. They'll come when the time is right."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you have an instant gratification mentality? Do you always want things right now--if not sooner? There's nothing wrong with using modern conveniences that save us time and effort, but God's timing is different from our fast-paced world. Trust Him to help you be patient like He is as you bring your requests to Him in prayer and to answer at the time He knows is best.
Today's Key Verse:
Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are the God of my salvation; I wait for you all day long. (CSB)
(Psalm 25:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Wait for God's answers
Bible Reading: 2 Peter 1:3-9
Calvin waited with his father at the airport. Soon they were greeting their friend Mr. Sato, who had come from Japan to visit.
When they arrived home, Mr. Sato handed Calvin a package. Calvin eagerly opened it, but he wasn't sure what it was. "I'll help you put that together," Mr. Sato said. "If it's okay with your dad, we can go out to the backyard and assemble it now."
"Sure," said Dad, so they went out and got busy fitting pieces together. When it was finished, three plastic fish billowed in the wind at the end of a bamboo pole.
"In Japan we have a special day for children," Mr. Sato told them. "We set up a pole with a fish--a carp like this--waving from it. The carp is a determined fish. It swims upstream and overcomes obstacles. One of the things we teach our children is to be brave and strong like that." Mr. Sato paused. "But many kids in Japan don't know they need Jesus," he added sadly. "They don't know they need Him to set them free from sin and make them strong enough to swim upstream and do what's right even if other kids don't." He smiled at Calvin. "I'm glad you know Jesus, Calvin. I hope you'll remember to trust Him to give you the strength you need to swim against the current."
When Calvin got into bed, he thought about the carp swimming upstream. I wonder if I'd be able to swim upstream if my friends tried to talk me into doing something I know I shouldn't, he thought. Some of the things we've been doing lately haven't been all that good, but I don't want them to think I'm a wimp. He was still wondering about it when he fell asleep.
At school the next day, his friend Grant approached him. "Hey, some of us are gonna skip gym class and walk over to the park. Mr. Tillman never takes attendance, so no one will know. You in?"
Calvin took a deep breath and said a silent prayer. Then he shook his head. "No, I'm not going to do stuff like that anymore." There, I said it! he thought. Thanks, Jesus, for helping me swim upstream.
-Matilda H. Nordtvedt
How About You?
Do you do what other kids do because you're afraid they'll make fun of you if you don't? Any fish can float downstream, but it takes a strong one to swim against the current. If you know Jesus as your Savior, He has given you that strength. When you're tempted to do something wrong, trust Him to help you swim upstream and do the right thing.
Today's Key Verse:
Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. (NKJV) (Ephesians 6:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Say no to wrong things
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:15-16
On a sunny summer afternoon, Kayla and her parents decided to take a walk through the woods. When they first moved to the farm, Dad had cleared a path that looped through the woods at the back of their property.
Kayla loved walking in the woods with her parents. She would often just stand still and take in the sounds and smells of the forest. It was always so peaceful and beautiful.
As she rounded a curve in the path, something caught Kayla's eye. "Mom, Dad, come look at this!" she called.
Mom and Dad walked over to where Kayla was standing. On the ground, nestled between a bunch of leaves and sticks, was a bright purple flower.
"Wow, that flower was hidden well," Dad said.
Mom nodded. "If you hadn't been standing right there, we would have missed it."
"It's too pretty to just leave hidden out here. Can I pick it and take it home?" Kayla asked.
Mom checked her phone to make sure it was okay to pick, and then Kayla carefully picked the flower and held on to it as they continued on around the path. Once they reached the house, Kayla grabbed a vase from under the kitchen sink, filled it with water, and placed the flower in it. She set the vase on the table so they all could enjoy it.
"It's so beautiful!" Kayla exclaimed.
During devotions that evening, Dad read some verses from the book of Matthew. "You know, that flower you found in the woods today is a good example of this Bible lesson," he said when he finished reading. "The flower was just so bright and beautiful that you couldn't leave it hidden in the woods. You wanted everyone to see it. Well, this verse is saying that's what we're like as Christians. We have the light of Jesus in us, and we shouldn't try to hide it. We need to shine bright like that flower so that others can see the beauty of His love in our lives."
That night when Kayla went to bed, she prayed that the Lord would help her be a shining light for Him. She wanted others to see Jesus in her life.
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Does your life reflect the light of Jesus? Can others see Him when they look at you? As Christians, it's important for us to be a light for Jesus. Others should be able to see His love and goodness in the way we treat them and know that He makes a difference in our lives. Don't keep your light hidden--shine brightly for Jesus today and every day!
Today's Key Verse:
You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. (NLT) (Matthew 5:14 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be a light for Jesus
Bible Reading: Luke 15:3-7
"Stryker! Where are you?" Zion tried to hold back the tears as he searched the barn for his beagle pup. Zion had made the mistake of opening the front door before he'd placed Stryker in his harness. Now Stryker was gone.
"Stryker, come here!" Zion looked in each of the open stalls, hoping to see that cute white snout and those curious brown eyes peek out through the hay.
"Did you find him?" Dad walked into the barn carrying a rain poncho and two flashlights.
"He's not in here, Dad." Zion wiped at his tears with his sleeve. "Where could he be? It's getting dark outside, and it's starting to rain."
Squatting down to Zion's height, Dad looked him in the eye. "I don't think Stryker's gone far, Zion. We've got a big farm, and he's a little pup. But don't worry. We'll keep looking until we find him."
Zion nodded, wiped his eyes once more, and followed Dad down the path toward the pond. The rain pelted his poncho, and the wind kept tugging his hood off his head, but Zion was determined not to go home without Stryker.
Two hours later, Zion and Dad found Stryker huddled beneath a thicket of pine trees at the far end of the cornfield. His coat was covered with mud, but his tail beat a steady rhythm on Zion's chest when he scooped him up in a hug.
"Come on, buddy." Dad took Stryker in his strong arms. "Let's get home so we can all get warm and dry."
"You know something, Dad," Zion said as he followed his dad home. "What we did tonight for Stryker is a lot like what God does for us."
"You think so?"
"Sure." Zion looked at the moon that was now peeking out from behind the clouds. "God loves us so much that He doesn't want us to be lost and without Him. Jesus came to find us and save us."
"That's right," said Dad.
As they reached their front porch, Zion smiled as he opened the door. "It feels really good to be loved that much, doesn't it, Dad?"
His dad smiled back. "It sure does."
-Vickie Price Taylor
How About You?
Do you ever feel lost or alone? God loves you, and He doesn't want you to be lost. He sent His Son, Jesus, to save you from sin and give you an eternal home with Him. He promises to always be there for you. You don't have to be lost and alone anymore. Trust in Jesus today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
The Son of Man [Jesus] has come to seek and to save the lost. (CSB)
(Luke 19:10 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus came to find you
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 13:4-7; Ephesians 4:2
"Your move, Tim," said Mom after she placed a wooden tile atop the precarious stack.
Timothy picked a tile from the bottom of the tower and carefully wiggled it out. The stack swayed for a second before tumbling over, sending blocks all over the table.
Mom began gathering the wooden pieces scattered across the table into a pile. "I got a call today from Adam's mom. She said Adam got in trouble today for fighting with a teacher. She told me your name came up once or twice. What happened?"
Timothy stooped down to grab a wooden tile beneath his chair. "I know Adam is my best friend, but he's been so moody lately. Today he blew up when Mr. Green took his comic book. I told Adam he should put it away before Mr. Green saw him goofing off, but he didn't listen. I think Mr. Green heard me, which is how he found out about the comic book in the first place. Adam was really mad at me."
"How about one last round before we call it a night?" Mom asked, stacking the wooden tiles into a tower on top of the table. "It sounds like Adam is going through a rough time. When I talked to his mom, she told me that her divorce was just finalized yesterday."
Timothy pulled a piece from the middle of the tower and moved it to the top. "I don't know what to do for him. I don't even know if he wants to be my friend anymore."
"It sounds like he needs a friend now more than ever," said Mom. "Adam's situation is a lot like this game." Mom picked up the piece that Timothy had just laid on top. "With everything he's going through, Adam probably feels like someone is taking tiles from his tower. But a good friend who's supportive and patient can put some stability back in his life." She slowly put the tile back in its hole.
"So you're saying I should be patient with Adam, even if he doesn't like me right now?" asked Timothy.
"It isn't just me who says it," Mom said. "God is always patient with us, especially when we don't deserve it. And He wants us to show love and patience to others."
-Josh Mosey
How About You?
Are you patient and kind with your friends, even when they aren't being very nice to you? Life can be hard, and sometimes it feels like someone is taking tiles from our towers. Those are the times when we need good friends the most. Jesus is that kind of friend--one who shows us patience and love when it seems like everything is tumbling down around us. Trust Him to help you be a good friend like Him.
Today's Key Verse:
A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for adversity. (NKJV) (Proverbs 17:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Be patient with your friends
Bible Reading: Genesis 1:27; Psalm 139:13-16; Romans 5:6-8
"Good morning," Mrs. Fields said to her class at Potter Christian School. "Mason, can you remind everyone what special thing we're going to do today?"
Using his communication device, Mason answered, "We're going to Potter's Woods to pick wildflowers."
"That's right," said Mrs. Fields. "We'll leave after morning recess."
When the recess bell rang, Cody, a new member of the class, stayed behind while the other kids filed out of the classroom.
"Did you have a question, Cody?" Mrs. Fields asked.
Cody nodded. "How can Mason pick wildflowers if he can't walk or use his hands?"
"He can do lots of things, Cody. He has a special chair to help him go places and a special device to help him talk. He'll let us know if he needs our help."
"Okay. Since I can do everything by myself, I'll help Mason if he can't do something," Cody said.
"Thank you, Cody, that's very kind of you. But don't forget that even though you can do many things by yourself, everyone needs help sometimes. We all have different abilities because God made each of us special. Think about the flowers we're going to pick. Do you think they'll all be alike?"
Cody shook his head. "My sister's class had a field trip to the woods yesterday, and they found all kinds of different flowers."
"I'm sure they did," said Mrs. Fields. "Flowers don't all look the same, but they're all beautiful. That's true of people too. We're all beautiful in God's eyes. He loves us all so much that He sent His Son to do what none of us could do ourselves--Jesus died and rose again to save us from sin. We all have equal need of His help, yet He created each of us with special abilities so we could help one another in different ways."
"So Mason has special abilities too?" Cody asked.
Mrs. Fields nodded. "Cody, like most of the class, you can do some things Mason can't do, but as you get to know him, you'll be surprised to see all he is able to do--even some things you can't do." She smiled. "I'll tell you one thing he's very good at. He spreads the joy of Jesus with his cheerful and loving attitude."
-Beverly B. Papizan
How About You?
Do you sometimes need help doing certain things? Because we live in a broken world, we all struggle with different things in our lives, but Jesus did what none of us could do--He died and rose again to save us and make us whole. Because of Him, we can use the different abilities God gave us to point others to Jesus. God says you are wonderfully made. He created you in His own image and gave you special abilities that you can use to help others.
Today's Key Verse:
When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. (NLT)
(Romans 5:6)
Today's Key Thought:
There is beauty and ability in everyone
Bible Reading: John 3:1-8; Romans 6:3-10
"Look at the wind!" exclaimed Clover as she stood at the window. "The trees are swaying back and forth, and some of the branches are breaking off."
"Wow! It's really blowing hard!" said Beau as he came into the room. "I've never seen so much wind!"
Dad joined them at the window. "You can't really see wind," he reminded them. "You can only see what it does."
"It's making that garbage can roll down the street," Clover remarked.
The three of them watched in silence for a few minutes, then Dad said, "Jesus compared the blowing of the wind to becoming a Christian. We can't actually see the wind, and we can't actually see Jesus coming into somebody's life."
"It's His Spirit that comes in, isn't it? And spirits are invisible," said Beau. He looked at Clover. "That's why you still look the same," he told her. "You still have freckles, just like before you trusted in Jesus at Bible camp last summer." Beau loved teasing his sister about her freckles.
Dad smiled. "We see what the wind does though, and we also see what Jesus does in a person's life. He changes that person. When someone becomes a Christian, they have a new desire to obey the Lord and show His love to others--and not do things that aren't pleasing to God."
Clover nodded. "I still do bad things sometimes, but I don't want to," she said. "When I know I've done something wrong, I ask Jesus to forgive me and trust Him to help me not do it anymore. Before I was saved, I didn't really care very much."
"Yeah," said Beau. "And you don't get mad anymore when I tease you about your freckles. That's no fun."
Clover grinned and made a face at him, then cringed as a rather large branch cracked and fell off a neighbor's tree. "I'm glad the wind doesn't always blow this hard."
"I am too," said Dad. "But I'm even more glad that Jesus is always in our hearts. Even though we can't see Him, we know He's there to help us live in a way that shows how He's changed us."
-Matilda H. Nordtvedt
How About You?
Are you different from the way you were before you became a Christian? Can others see the change Jesus has brought into your life? If you were saved at a very young age, you may wonder if you changed at all. God says you did, and He's continuously working to make you more like Jesus. Trust Him to help you grow in your obedience to Him and in your love for others.
Today's Key Verse:
Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (NLT)
(2 Corinthians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus changes you
Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:8-9
"Is it a boy? It is, isn't it?" Carter jumped around the kitchen while his grandmother talked to his dad at the hospital. Carter was so excited, he almost dropped the apple he was eating. "It's a boy, isn't it, Grandma?"
Grandma hung up the phone. "You now have a beautiful baby sister," she said gently. "Her name is Oakleigh."
"No!" Carter dropped his apple. "I've been praying for months for a brother." He felt like crying. "It's not fair! Oscar got a baby brother, and he didn't pray at all. Why wouldn't God give me a brother when I asked for one?"
Grandma leaned against the counter. "I remember how happy your mom and dad were when they were expecting you. When people asked if they wanted a girl or a boy, they said they just wanted a healthy baby."
Carter picked up his apple from the floor and rinsed it off at the sink. "I'm sure they were glad I turned out to be a boy."
"Yes, but I was a little bit disappointed. I was hoping for a little granddaughter."
"Grandma!" Carter was shocked. "You didn't want me?"
"Of course I did! But I already had three grandsons. I thought it would be nice to have a girl in the family. But another boy was God's choice for them, and you know what? Now I couldn't love anybody more." She gave Carter a big hug.
Carter sighed. "I still don't think it was very nice of you to wish I was a girl!"
Grandma's eyes twinkled. "No nicer than for you to wish your sister was a boy."
Carter looked surprised. "I guess I wasn't being nice either."
"I know you were hoping for a brother, Carter, but God has given you the gift of a baby sister instead. Remember that He loves her just as much as He loves you, and He will help you be a good brother to her." Grandma squeezed Carter's shoulder. "Even though a sister isn't what you were expecting, God's gifts to us are always good, and we can be thankful knowing the same God who loves us so much He saved us from sin promises to do what He knows is best."
Carter nodded and bit into his apple. "So when can Oakleigh come home?"
-Ruth McQuilkin
How About You?
Do you get upset when God doesn't answer your prayers the way you want? He has a purpose for everything, and when He answers your prayers in His own way, He's doing it to fit His perfect will. Remember how much He loves you--so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for your sins so you could be saved--and trust Him to make the choices He knows are best.
Today's Key Verse:
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (NKJV) (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Today's Key Thought:
God knows best
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:29-32
I didn't do anything wrong, Hayley thought as she stared at the TV, wiping away tears. Her dad never yelled at her like that. She had just been singing. He had told her before that he loved to hear her sing.
"Aren't you going to eat with us?" Hayley's older brother peeked into the room.
Hayley shook her head. "I'm not hungry."
"What's wrong?" Mikey walked over to her.
Hayley's brother was a teenager. He would think she was stupid for crying. "Nothing."
"Something is wrong, Hay." Mikey sat down beside her. "Spill."
"Fine." Hayley closed her eyes. "Dad yelled at me in the car. He told me to shut up."
"What?" Mikey looked shocked.
"I was just singing. And we're not supposed to say that." Hayley started to cry again.
Mikey hugged her. "I'll save you some dinner in case you're hungry later."
Hayley rested on the couch with her eyes closed, her dad's words playing over and over in her head, until she heard footsteps come into the room. She peeked her eyes open as her dad knelt on the floor beside the couch.
"Mikey told me you're upset," Dad said. "I was really stressed in the car. The traffic was bad and I was trying hard to focus." He brushed her hair back from her face. "I should have asked you nicely if you could be quiet instead of yelling at you."
"You hurt my feelings," Hayley said.
"I know, and I'm sorry." Dad sighed. "It's like how you sometimes get angry if your brother makes a lot of noise while you're trying to practice for your recital. Sometimes we let anger take over when we're nervous and say hurtful things. But we don't have to let that happen. We can trust God to help us control our anger instead of letting it control us."
Hayley knew her dad was right--she sometimes got angry when she was stressed too. She just hadn't expected that from him. "If God helps us control our anger, why did you let it control you?"
Dad gave her a sad smile. "I'm not perfect. God's still working on me. I let anger take control today, but I'm glad I can always depend on God to forgive me and help me do better. I hope you'll forgive me too."
-Emily Acker
How About You?
Do you sometimes let anger take over? Do you yell or say hurtful things? Even adults struggle with anger sometimes.* But as Christians, we don't have to let anger control us. Through the Holy Spirit's power, we can control what we say and do when we feel angry. Remember He's working to make you more like Jesus, and trust Him to help you control your anger.
*If an adult is hurting you because they can't control their anger, tell another adult who can help.
Today's Key Verse:
Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city. (NIV) (Proverbs 16:32)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't let anger control you
Bible Reading: Psalms 19:1-4; 111:2-4; Hebrews 1:10
Della sighed as she sat on the porch steps, staring off into space. "What's wrong, honey?" asked her dad as he put down the garden hose.
"This girl in my class--Raven--says there's no God," replied Della. "I told her there is, but she said, 'Prove it.' I didn't know how. We can't see God, so how could I give her proof?"
Dad nodded. "You may not be able to prove it to her satisfaction, but there are things she can see that may convince her of the truth. Come with me."
Della stood up and followed her dad into the house. In the dining room, he pointed at the embroidered tablecloth. "Who made this?"
"Grandma did," Della replied.
"What about this casserole in the oven?" asked Dad. "Who put it there?"
"Mom did," Della answered.
Dad nodded and removed a drawing of a flower from the refrigerator door.
"Who made this?"
Della grinned. "I drew that in art class."
Dad smiled. "No matter what I point to in this room, somebody made it, right?"
"Right," said Della.
Dad took Della outside again and told her to look around. "What do you see?"
"I see the little birds in the trees," said Della. "And a bumble bee on a pink rose. And I see the grass and the sky and the sun shining."
"And did they just appear there by themselves, or did somebody make them?"
"Somebody made them," replied Della. "God did!"
"Yes, indeed He did," said Dad. "Everything made has a maker. Even things made with human hands start with materials made by God. One way we know God exists is that our eyes see the things only God could make. The beauty and complexity of nature and our own bodies point to His existence and His love for us."
"I'll have to tell Raven about that," said Della.
"It might not change her mind, but hopefully it will give her something to think about," said Dad. "You can also pray for her and ask God to help her see that He's real and that He loves her." Dad nudged Della with his elbow. "You can ask Him to help you be a good friend to her so she can see His love in you too."
Della grinned. "Okay, Dad. I'll do that."
-Suzanne Daly
How About You?
Do you know anyone who doesn't believe in God? Even though you can't make people believe in God, you can point them to the truth that He exists and that He loves them. The Bible teaches that He is the Creator of the universe and that He loves us so much He sent His Son, Jesus, to save us from sin. Point others to the greatness of God that's evident in His creation, and let His love be evident in you.
Today's Key Verse:
The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. (NIV) (Psalm 19:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Creation points to God
Bible Reading: Romans 3:23-24; Ephesians 2:4-10
"Hey, look at that, Killian!" Nathan pointed out the car window to a big crane. "Mom, can we stop and watch?"
"Okay." Mom pulled over and watched with Nathan and his friend Killian as the crane lifted a golden statue to the top of the courthouse.
Killian pointed to the statue. "Why is she blindfolded?"
"And what's in her hand?" asked Nathan.
"That's a statue of Lady Justice," said Mom. "She's blindfolded to show that justice shouldn't be influenced by who people are or how much money they have. She's holding a balance scale, which represents fairness. Both sides of the scale have to hold equal amounts. If a wrong is committed, the penalty has to balance the crime."
"Balance the crime?" asked Nathan. "What does that mean?"
"The crime is on one side of the scale, and if the right penalty is on the other, they balance," Mom explained. "Say someone steals a pair of shoes from a store. To balance that, they'd have to pay for them, or give them back, and probably pay a fine for doing wrong."
"Oh, I get it!" said Nathan.
"Is that how it works with God too?" asked Killian. "My sister says He's keeping track of all the bad things I do, and I'll have to pay someday. If I do lots of good things, will it balance out?"
Mom shook her head. "People often think that's how it works, but all our good deeds can never be enough to balance the wrong things we do. The Bible says that what we do wrong is sin--and sin puts a lot of weight in the bad side of the scale."
"Yeah. It's like our sins are a pile of stones," said Nathan. "And our good deeds are like feathers. We can't put enough feathers on the scale to balance the stones."
"So how can we make it even?" asked Killian.
"We can't," said Mom. "But Jesus can. He paid the penalty for our sins by dying on the cross, and if we trust in Him, He puts His goodness on the scale for us."
Nathan grinned. "His goodness does more than balance the scale. It knocks our sins right off, so it's like we never sinned at all, right, Mom?"
"Yep!" said Mom with a smile.
"Wow," said Killian. "Then that's what I want!"
-Kathy Gustafson
How About You?
Do you do good things to try to make up for bad things you've done? You can never do enough good things to balance your account with God. Today's verse applies to anyone who isn't a Christian--and if you've never trusted Jesus to be your Savior, that includes you. Trust in Jesus and receive His goodness in place of your sin. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. (NKJV) (Romans 3:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus offers you His goodness
Bible Reading: Isaiah 58:11; John 4:13-14; 7:37-39
"Are you packed and ready to go?" Macy's mom called.
"I'm ready!" Macy exclaimed as she came bounding down the stairs carrying her backpack. She couldn't wait to spend the weekend with Mimi and Pop on their small farm and help them plant a vegetable garden. Macy and her parents lived in a townhouse in the city, so being out in the wide-open countryside was a real treat for her.
After Mom dropped her off, Mimi helped Macy get her things unpacked and then they headed out to plant the garden.
"Here, you hold the seeds and the hoe while I get the wheelbarrow and dirt," Mimi said.
Pop had already plowed the garden area for them, so they were set to start planting. As they planted the seeds, Mimi talked about how they would need to make sure the garden was properly watered and weeded until harvest time.
Macy sighed. "That sounds like a lot of work."
"It is," said Mimi. "But it will be worth it when you see and taste those vegetables."
Macy giggled. "My mouth is already watering!"
Mom and Mimi made a plan for Macy to come over every Saturday morning during the growing season to help weed and water the garden. Macy worked hard in the garden all summer, and boy, did it pay off! They ended up with a good crop of vegetables and a couple of juicy watermelons.
"Was all the work worth it?" Pop asked.
"Definitely!" Macy said as she took another big bite of watermelon.
Pop grinned. "Did you know that our lives are like a vegetable garden, Macy? Just like we had to keep the garden watered and weeded so the vegetables would be healthy and grow, we need Jesus to water us spiritually. He does that the moment we put our trust in Him, and He continues to water us with His love and grace throughout our lives."
"I sure did enjoy working in the garden with you this summer," said Macy.
"I'm glad Jesus is working in my life so I can grow just like our vegetables!"
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Are you like a well-watered garden? In today's Bible reading, John 7:38 says that Jesus provides us with living water. When we trust Him as our Savior, He gives us the Holy Spirit, who works in our lives and helps us grow in our faith so we can produce fruit of God's love for others to enjoy. As you learn more about Jesus and listen to the truth of God's Word, trust Him to help you grow in the love and knowledge of the Lord.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden, like an ever-flowing spring. (NLT)
(Isaiah 58:11 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus waters us spiritually
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-39; 1 John 1:9
It was a beautiful day for a picnic at the beach. The Patel family spread out a blanket and put up sun umbrellas in their favorite spot. Then Mira and Priya dashed for the water, but Ari looked fearfully at the waves. "The water is so scary today," he murmured.
"Oh, come on in," called Mira. "The waves are fun. Don't be so scared."
But Ari shook his head. He sat down on the beach and began to build a sand castle. "Dad…" he began hesitantly. His voice trembled as he continued, "I feel awful inside. I don't think God loves me anymore."
"God has never quit loving you for a minute in your whole life," Dad said, turning to look at him. "What makes you think He has?"
"Well, my Bible club verse this week says, 'Keep yourselves in the love of God.' That must mean I have to do stuff to keep God loving me, but I don't think I've done that." Ari looked at the ground. "I'm sure I haven't. I lied to you and Mom one day last week, remember?"
"Yes, but you confessed that to us, and we forgave you," said Dad. "When you confess your sin to God, He forgives you too. God never stops loving you." Dad waved a hand toward the ocean. "God's love is something like the ocean. Just think of how much water there is out there, but you're not enjoying any of it. Why not?"
"Because the waves are so big, and they scare me."
"Exactly, so you're not in it," said Dad. "Your fear of the big waves keeps you from enjoying the water. And your fear that God is unhappy with you is keeping you from enjoying His love. But His love for you is there, just as it's always been."
"But what about that verse?" asked Ari.
"The Bible doesn't say, 'Keep God loving you,'" said Dad. "It says, 'Keep yourselves in the love of God.' There's nothing you could ever do to make God stop loving you, Ari. Jesus died for you so you could live without fear, knowing your sins are forgiven. His love for you is always there. To enjoy it, remember that you are His child and that nothing can separate you from Him."
-Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Do you ever wonder if God still loves you when you sin? Maybe you cheated, lied, made fun of someone, or did something else you knew was wrong. God always loves you, and nothing you do will ever change that. He loves you so much that Jesus died for you so your sins could be forgiven and you could have eternal life with Him. Confess your sin to Him and accept His forgiveness. Then enjoy the ocean of love He has for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting expectantly for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ for eternal life. (CSB) (Jude 1:21 )
Today's Key Thought:
God never stops loving you
Bible Reading: John 15:9-10; Romans 6:11-14
"Are you enjoying your book?" asked Mom as Bailey curled up on the couch with a book of folktales.
"Yeah," said Bailey. "I just finished a story about a baby eagle who thought he was a little chick."
"Why did he think that?" asked her little brother, Luke.
"Well, when he was still inside an egg, the egg was stolen and taken to the henhouse," Bailey explained. "The hen didn't know it wasn't one of hers, and she sat on it with the rest of her eggs. After the egg hatched, she brought him up like one of her chicks."
"Someone should've told him he was an eagle," said Luke.
"Someone did tell him!" said Bailey. "The wise old owl who lived near the farm told him he was an eaglet--and that he could fly high in the sky like the great eagle--but he didn't believe it. He just kept on living like a chicken almost until the day he died."
"That was dumb of him!" said Luke. "He could have soared the skies, and all he did was scratch the dirt!"
"We do that too sometimes," remarked Mom.
"We scratch in the dirt?" asked Bailey. "I don't do that."
"Me neither." Luke shook his head.
"Not literally," said Mom. "But like that eagle, we often fail to realize our full potential. The Bible says we were all once slaves to sin. Then Jesus came to save us and set us free from the power of sin."
"And that means we don't have to keep on sinning?" asked Bailey.
Mom nodded. "Because we trust in Jesus, God has given us the power to say no to sin. But like that little eagle who lived the life of a chicken, we often choose to live as though we can't help but do wrong things. That's more foolish than he was, don't you think?" Bailey and Luke nodded. "We've been set free and don't need to be ruled by sin any longer," said Mom. "When we realize that something we're doing is wrong, we can stop immediately and confess our sin to Jesus, who always forgives us. We don't have to stay stuck in sinful habits--Jesus has freed us from sin so we can soar with Him!"
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Did you know that if you trust Jesus as your Savior you have the power to say no to sin? You don't have to give in to it because Jesus has freed you from sin and it doesn't control you anymore. When you're tempted to do something that's wrong, remember that you can say no, and trust God to help you do what's right instead. Thank Him for freeing you from sin and for making His power available to you!
Today's Key Verse:
The law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. (NKJV) (Romans 8:2)
Today's Key Thought:
God gives power to say no to sin
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 6:14-18; Revelation 3:15-19
"Mom, what's wrong with these ice cubes?" asked Nora. "They're all brown!"
Mom glanced at the dark cubes and grinned. "I used iced tea to make those," she explained. "I made them for Grandpa. You know how he loves good, strong iced tea on hot summer days."
Nora smiled at her grandfather, who sat at the kitchen table. She knew he disliked his tea watery and weak, the way it got when too many ice cubes melted in it. She popped several of the brown cubes into a tall glass and poured fresh iced tea over them. "Here you go, Grandpa. Good, strong tea, unspoiled by ordinary ice cubes."
"Thanks, Nora," said Grandpa, taking the tea. "Just the way I like it." He took a big gulp and let out a sigh. "Now, what can these ice cubes teach us about living the Christian life?"
Mom and Nora exchanged knowing glances. Grandpa seemed to be able to find a spiritual lesson in almost anything.
"Well," said Nora, "I guess ice cubes made out of tea keep your iced tea tasting strong, and we want to stay strong as Christians, right?"
"Right," said Grandpa. "When you use regular ice cubes, they melt and the tea becomes diluted--weak and tasteless. We don't want to be diluted Christians, do we?" He took another sip of tea. "What kinds of things might water us down if we're not careful?"
"Hmm," said Nora. "Maybe going along with what everyone else is doing just to fit in?"
Grandpa nodded. "When we allow the opinions of others to determine what we think and do instead of God, it makes us weak and ineffective. The Bible tells us to separate ourselves from the world. That means we should think and act differently from those around us who don't know Jesus. Instead of looking for worth and contentment in the things of this world, we need to look to Jesus, who loves us so much He died on the cross to save us."
Grandpa finished his tea and then shook the glass, making the brown ice cubes at the bottom rattle. "You can't follow both Jesus and the world--one will eventually water down the other. We need to remember that we belong to Jesus and trust Him to help us stay strong as we follow Him."
-Lois A. Teufel
How About You?
Can others tell you're different by the way you live? While the world may tell us that what we own or what people think of us is what gives us value, the Bible tells us to look to Jesus for our worth--and we're worth so much to Him that He died to save us. Don't water down your life with the things of this world. Follow what Jesus says and trust Him to help you reflect His love in your life.
Today's Key Verse:
Come out from among them and be separate, says the Lord. (NKJV) (2 Corinthians 6:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Follow Jesus, not the world
Bible Reading: Psalm 25:16-22; Matthew 11:28; Philippians 4:13
"What are you doing?" asked Jonie, astonished to see her grandmother spilling beans into a pie crust.
"I'm using uncooked beans as weights so my crust will bake evenly," answered Grandma. She slid it into the oven and set the timer.
Jonie laughed. "I thought you were making bean pie!"
Grandma smiled. "No, beans add pressure so no air gets inside to puff up the pastry. My crust will bake beautifully once the real filling replaces the beans." She pointed at a bowl of green apples. "There's our filling. Would you like to peel those?"
"Sure. Apple pie sounds way better than bean pie!" Jonie got to work with the peeler. "I love your baking, Grandma. It never affects my allergies."
Cutting the fruit, Grandma said, "It must be hard keeping track of what's in your food."
Jonie raised her hand. Counting on her fingers, she listed, "Nuts, eggs, tomatoes, and seafood." She returned to her task. "It's not fair. Some people only have one allergy or none at all."
The timer beeped. Using oven mitts, Grandma removed the crust. She dumped the beans into a bowl. Setting the crust aside, she returned to slicing the apples. "We all have difficult situations--burdens--that weigh us down. Jesus knows our burdens. When He came to earth, He experienced hard things too. We can trust Him to give us the strength we need to face them, even if we don't understand why." She added sugar and cinnamon to the fruit. "Whether our burdens are big or small, Jesus is with us, and we can rely on Him for help. He willingly took on the biggest burden of all--our sin--so we could be free from all our troubles one day when He comes again." She stirred salt and lemon juice into the mixture. "Sometimes it may seem unfair to have difficulties, but they can make us stronger and prepare us to become who God intended us to be."
As Grandma transferred the apple filling to the crust, Jonie exclaimed, "It's like those beans! Your pastry needed them to get ready for the apples, otherwise it wouldn't become a delicious apple pie."
Grandma's smile widened. "Right. The beans helped the crust take shape for something better--the apples."
"Don't forget the ice cream!" added Jonie.
-Elena Dee
How About You?
Are you facing difficulties? Do you wonder why you have them in the first place? Jesus knows your challenges and why you have them. He can use your burdens to help you grow in your relationship with Him and shape you into the person you were meant to be. Rely on Jesus to give you strength to face your troubles. He is with you every step of the way.
Today's Key Verse:
You can have peace in me [Jesus]. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world! (ERV) (John 16:33 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus knows your troubles
Bible Reading: Genesis 6:17-24
"Can I go out and play now?" Dylan asked.
"Can I go too?" asked Molly, Dylan's younger sister.
Mom nodded, and the kids took their plates to the sink and then hurried out the door.
Dylan went straight for his bike that he had thrown in the middle of the yard when his mom had called them in for dinner. Molly went to the driveway and continued working on her chalk drawing. They were not outside long when they heard the rumbling of thunder. Soon rain started to fall fast and hard.
"Molly! Dylan!" Mom called. "Come inside before you get soaked!"
Molly knew there was nothing she could do to save her chalk drawing, so she quickly gathered her chalk and ran into the house. Dylan, however, continued to ride his bike in the rain.
"Dylan!" Mom called again. "It's not safe to be out there when there's lightning. You need to come in right now."
Just then a huge bolt of lightning lit up the sky, followed by a loud clap of thunder. Dylan quickly threw down his bike and ran inside.
"Wow, that was scary!" Dylan said, water dripping from his clothes.
"You should have listened to me the first time I called," said Mom. "Go put on your pajamas and then come to the living room for devotions." This time Dylan was quick to do what he was told.
"I thought tonight we would read about Noah's ark," Mom said, opening her Bible. "Dylan, when I was watching you out in the storm, it made me think of all those people long ago who ignored the warning that a huge storm was coming. But when God told Noah to build an ark so he and his family could be saved from the flood, Noah listened."
"The storm outside isn't going to cause a flood like that, is it?" asked Molly.
Mom smiled and shook her head. "No, but the story of Noah's ark reminds us that God is calling all sinners to come to Him and be saved from the storm of sin, and we need to listen to His call. We can only be saved by Jesus, who washes away our sin when we turn to Him for forgiveness."
-Melissa Yeagle
How About You?
Have you listened to God's call? Have you trusted Jesus to forgive your sins and give you eternal life? He wants you to turn to Him and be saved. God loves you so much that He sent Jesus, His only Son, to die for you. Don't let anything stop you from listening to His call. Trust Him to save you today. (See "Have You Heard the Good News?" on page 102.)
Today's Key Verse:
Repent of your sins and turn to God, so that your sins may be wiped away. (NLT) (Acts 3:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Listen to God's call
Bible Reading: Luke 19:1-10
"I can't see anything," Joey complained at the concert. Everyone was standing in front of them and he just wasn't tall enough to get a view of the stage.
His dad crouched down beside him. "Get up on my back!" he shouted above the music.
Joey quickly did as he was told and could finally see the band. "Wow!"
"Too bad we don't have Zacchaeus's tree," Dad said.
It was too loud to talk much in there, so Joey didn't ask his dad what he meant right then.
The next day, when he and Dad were getting the grill going for supper, Joey brought it up again. "What did you mean yesterday about Zacchaeus's tree?"
Dad lit the grill and turned to him. "Don't you remember the story of Zacchaeus?"
"Not really," Joey said.
"Well, we have time for it now." Dad sat in a lawn chair and Joey pulled one up beside him. "When Jesus was living on earth, many people wanted to see Him and hear Him speak," Dad explained. "He drew crowds everywhere He went, and one day a man named Zacchaeus was in the crowd."
Joey glanced at his dad. "And he had a tree?"
"He climbed a tree," Dad said. "Zacchaeus was a short man, so he couldn't see from where he was standing. Jesus noticed what he did and went over and told him He'd eat at his house that day."
Dad got up and checked on the grill before continuing. "What's cool about the story is that Zacchaeus hadn't been a good man. He was a tax collector and had taken more than he should have from people. But meeting Jesus changed him, and he decided he wanted to follow Jesus and live a good life, so he gave back to those he took from even more than he owed." Dad smiled. "Stories like that remind me that Jesus can change anyone's heart."
Joey made a face. "Even people like the bullies down the street?"
Dad nodded. "Jesus changed us even though we were sinners, and He can change them too. God can change anyone and help them grow into a better person." Dad touched the top of Joey's head. "Speaking of growing, maybe you won't need a Zacchaeus tree the next time we go to a concert."
Joey grinned. "Maybe not."
-Bethany Acker
How About You?
Do you believe anyone can change? The story of Zacchaeus in the Bible shows us they can. When Zacchaeus met Jesus and saw that Jesus cared about him even though he was a tax collector, his heart was changed. Jesus can do that for you too. He can do it for anyone you know who seems like they'll never change. He changes hearts and lives every day!
Today's Key Verse:
I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. (CSB)
(Ezekiel 36:26)
Today's Key Thought:
God can change anyone
Bible Reading: Psalm 71:15-18; 1 Peter 2:9
"Little kids are so funny!" Brayden said, laughing as he came into the kitchen. "Finn and his friend Arlo are playing war. They're upstairs building a bunker in the bathtub--filling it with pillows. We'd better be careful, Dad! According to them, there are bombers overhead, submarines all around the house, and tanks roaring up the street!"
Dad chuckled. "I see what you mean."
"But get this, Dad!" said Brayden. "I was standing outside the bathroom, and I heard Finn say, 'Are you going to heaven, Arlo?' And Arlo said, 'I don't know.' Then Finn said, 'We could die in this battle, and it's real important to know you're going to heaven to be with Jesus when you die. So repeat after me!' And, Dad, he led Arlo in a prayer to accept Jesus."
"That's amazing!" said Dad.
"But, Dad! The danger isn't even real!" said Brayden.
"Well, the war they're preparing for in the bathtub certainly isn't real," Dad agreed. "But I'm proud my little boy loves his friend enough to want him to be safe--even in a bathtub war. Finn's right--it's important to know you're going to heaven to be with Jesus. Any one of us could die at any time."
"That's true," Brayden said. "I guess you can learn things from a little brother. I know I could do a better job of talking to my friends about Jesus." He frowned. "I've invited Angelo to church events, but I don't think I've ever asked him straight out if he's saved. I guess I should talk to him about it, but I'm not sure how to get started."
"Why don't you start by talking to God about it?" Dad suggested. "I'll do that too. Then come back and we'll see what ideas we can come up with."
Brayden nodded. "Okay. Thanks, Dad." He started to leave, then turned back. "But what about Arlo? Do you think he's really saved now?"
"I don't know," said Dad. "If he truly trusts in Jesus, he is. I'll talk to him about it and make sure he understands who Jesus is and how he can know he's going to spend eternity with Him."
-Elsie Dodge
How About You?
Do you know if your friends have trusted Jesus as their Savior? Are they going to spend eternity with Him? It's an important decision for them to make, and no one can be certain of how much time they have left on earth to make that decision. Talk about it with them. Tell them how Jesus has saved you and what He's done in your life. Let them know you want to see them in heaven one day with Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
My mouth will tell about how right and good You are and about Your saving acts all day long. (NLV)
(Psalm 71:15 )
Today's Key Thought:
Tell friends about Jesus
Bible Reading: Revelation 21:1-5; 22:20
Keziah loved it when she and her mom got to babysit two-year-old Elodie, Mrs. Gordon's daughter from church. Mom, Keziah, and Elodie would color, play dress-up, read books, and munch on snacks all morning while Mrs. Gordon attended seminary classes.
One such morning, Elodie was missing her mom more than usual. As they played all her usual favorite games, she would occasionally get very quiet and say, "Mama home soon."
When this happened, Keziah or her mom would give Elodie a hug or a shoulder squeeze and say, "That's right. Mama will be home soon. She loves you so much and can't wait to come back to see you."
Sure enough, Mrs. Gordon was home soon, and when she arrived, Elodie screeched with delight and ran to her.
Mrs. Gordon wrapped her daughter in a big hug, "I missed you too, little one! I love you so much."
After the Gordons left, Keziah and Mom began to clean up the various toys and books strewn across the living room. "It was cute how excited Elodie was to see her mom today," said Keziah.
"It was!" said Mom. "It kind of reminded me about how excited I'll be when Jesus comes back."
"How so?" asked Keziah.
"Well," said Mom, "we live in a world ruined by sin and its effects. When we see all that sad stuff, we can rest knowing that Jesus promised He would return to make everything new--free from the brokenness we see right now."
"There is a lot of sad stuff on the news," said Keziah.
Mom nodded. "When Elodie got really quiet and said, 'Mama home soon,' it made me think about how the Bible records that the early church was eagerly waiting for Jesus to come back and would often say, 'Come soon, Jesus!' That's my prayer too."
Elodie smiled. "So, when Jesus comes back, we'll kind of be like Elodie when Mrs. Gordon came back? Really excited and happy?"
"Yes," said Mom. "It will be a day of celebration! Our loving King will make all things new and we will be together forever with Him and all our siblings in Christ--all who put their trust in Jesus!"
-Kandi Zeller
How About You?
Are you excited about Jesus coming back? When He returns, He'll right every wrong and get rid of sin and all its effects. He'll make everything new, and those who trust in Him will live with Him forever in a world free from sin and death. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
He [Jesus] who is the faithful witness to all these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon!" Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! (NLT)
(Revelation 22:20)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is coming back
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:14-29; 1 Corinthians 10:31
When Kai came home after school, he sat down with a heavy sigh. "What's wrong, Kai?" asked Mom as she added ingredients to the almond bars she was making.
"I don't seem to be good at anything at school," Kai replied. "I'm not good in sports, so I can't be on the soccer or basketball team. I can't sing, so I can't join the choir. I'm not good at math or science either. Other kids have important things to do, but not me."
"What about helping Mr. Brown in the library?" asked Mom. "He depends on you to return books to the shelves. That's important. And then there's after-school safety patrol--you help the smaller children get to the right buses."
Kai looked doubtful. "Oh, Mom, almost all the kids take turns doing those little jobs. They don't count. Anybody can do them."
"It takes responsible kids to do those things, Kai. I know you'd be greatly missed if you left them for somebody else to do."
For dessert that evening, Mom set a plate of her almond bars on the table. When she picked one up and bit into it, she looked puzzled. "What's missing in these?" She took another bite. "Almond!" she exclaimed suddenly. "I forgot to put the almond flavoring in these bars!"
Dad laughed. "So you made almond bars without almond," he teased.
Mom smiled at Kai. "See what happens when just one little thing is missing? These bars don't need much flavoring, but if you leave it out, everyone will know! The tasks God gives us to do are like that. Even jobs that seem small are important."
Dad nodded. "We don't always know why God asks us to do some things and not others, but we need to be faithful no matter what He has us do. God made each one of us and loves us so much He sent Jesus to die for us, and He promises to use the work we do for good. We can trust Him to use whatever tasks He gives us to plant seeds of His love in people's hearts and to prepare us to do bigger things later on."
"Right," said Mom. "Now, Kai, I have an important job for you. Help me dish up some ice cream to go with these bars!"
-Kathy J. Hoffner
How About You?
Are you serving God where you are right now? Or do you sometimes think that what you do isn't really important? Today's Key Verse tells us that it doesn't matter how big or small the things you do for the Lord are, the important thing is to do them faithfully. Be faithful in the tasks He gives you, and trust Him to use them to do good things in your life and in the lives of others.
Today's Key Verse:
If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. (NLT)
(Luke 16:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Be faithful in all your tasks
Bible Reading: Proverbs 4:20-27; 28:13; 1 John 1:9
Gia traced her finger along a pack of gum in her pocket as she and her twin sister Teagan walked down a winding forest trail near their family's cabin. Mom had said they could take a hike if they stayed together and didn't go far. I wish Mom and Dad had let us buy gum when we stopped at the gas station, thought Gia. But their parents hadn't let them buy gum, so the girls snuck some from the shelf into their pockets. It seemed exciting when they did it, but now the gum was bothering Gia's conscience.
She sighed and turned her attention to the trail. "Dad says there's a lake just over this little hill. I'll race you there."
"Okay," said Teagan. "You're on!" The girls took off running.
Gia was so eager to beat Teagan that she flew down the path, never looking down. She cut corners on the curves and often strayed off the trail. Suddenly, her foot hit a rock, and she went sprawling into the leaves and weeds. She felt bruised and shaken as she sat up and looked around. Her knee hurt and was bleeding.
When Teagan caught up, she rushed to Gia's side. "Are you okay?" Teagan asked. "What happened?"
"I guess I got off the path," replied Gia. "My foot hit a rock, and I fell."
Teagan looked thoughtful. "Does that remind you of anything? Like last week's Sunday school lesson?"
"Yeah. It was about getting off the path too," said Gia. "Only our lesson wasn't about straying off a path in the woods. It was about getting off the right path--God's path--by doing things that are wrong and…well, we did that, didn't we?"
Teagan nodded. "Has that gum been bothering you too?"
"I haven't been able to chew it," Gia said. "It bothers me more than this banged-up knee." She sighed. "Our Sunday school lesson was also about how Jesus forgives us when we sin and helps us get back on the right path. We need to confess what we did to Him."
"And to Mom and Dad," said Teagan. "Let's ask them to take us back so we can return the gum. I'd rather get in trouble than feel like this."
"Yeah," said Gia. "It's time to get back on the right path."
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Is something bothering your conscience? That's often a reminder that you've strayed off the path God wants you to take as His child. Maybe you tell yourself that what you've done is okay because other kids do it, but sin is never okay. Don't ignore a guilty conscience. Confess your wrong to Jesus, and trust Him to forgive you and help you get back on the right path.
Today's Key Verse:
Ponder the path of your feet, and let all your ways be established. (NKJV) (Proverbs 4:26)
Today's Key Thought:
Walk on God's path
Bible Reading: Psalm 27:1-5, 14; 1 John 4:4
Several boys on Diego's street were at it again, making fun of people in the neighborhood. Diego stood there, hating it all, but saying nothing. "Do you get it?" asked one of the boys when Diego didn't laugh at his joke about an elderly woman who lived nearby.
Diego swallowed hard. "I have to go." He sighed as he walked away. Why didn't I tell them I don't like how they talk about people? he thought. It's not easy being the only Christian kid in the neighborhood.
Diego was so wrapped up in his own thoughts he didn't see Pastor Barros until he smacked right into him. "Oh, sorry!" said Diego.
"Where are you going in such a hurry?" asked the pastor, who was fixing the fence in his yard.
"Nowhere--just getting away from the guys." Diego hesitated. "It's really hard to stand up to others all by yourself."
"Yes, it is." Pastor Barros took a toothpick from his pocket. "You're like this toothpick. Here--see if you can break it."
Diego took the toothpick and broke it easily. "You mean I'm weak--not strong enough to say anything, right?" He sighed. "Yeah, I know I am."
"Oh, but look." Pastor Barros took a nail from his toolbox and held it out with another toothpick. "Hold the nail alongside the toothpick and see if you can you break them."
"I can't do that!" said Diego. "I'd have to break the nail. That's impossible!"
"Well," said the pastor, "like I said, you're like a toothpick--but you're like the toothpick with the nail beside it."
Diego frowned. "But who's like the nail then? My parents? Or you? I'd feel much stronger with one of you around, but you're not always there."
"No," said Pastor Barros, "but Jesus is. Trust Him to help you. He's always there to give you the strength you need to do the right thing and treat others with love and kindness, even when you're the only one doing it."
Diego looked at the nail. "Yeah, I guess you're right!"
"You know, I gave this same lesson to Lucas Cardoso yesterday," said Pastor Barros.
"Lucas?" asked Diego. "He lives just a few houses down from me."
Pastor Barros nodded. "He's having trouble with the other boys too. You see, Lucas thinks he's the only Christian in the neighborhood."
-Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Do you have trouble standing up for what's right? Jesus will give you the strength you need. With His help, you can find the courage to refuse to take part in sinful things. You can find the strength to defend those who are being mistreated. And when you do, you may even discover there are other Christians around. You can encourage them to depend on God for strength too.
Today's Key Verse:
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (NKJV) (Philippians 4:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Be strong in the Lord
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-2; Philippians 2:1-5
"Mom! I don't want Sparky to leave!" exclaimed Sarah. "He's part of our family." Sparky was a service dog, and they had been fostering and training him until he was ready to leave and be rehomed. "Please let him stay," Sarah begged. "Why can't we keep him?"
Mom gently held her daughter's hand. Sparky's soft brown eyes looked up at them both. He sat down beside them, wagging his tail, sensing they were troubled.
"I'm sorry, sweetheart, but no, we can't keep him. Sparky is a very special dog with an important job to do. We've been blessed to have him with us, but it's time for him to move on and be a blessing to someone who needs his help.
Sarah stormed up to her bedroom. Sparky followed. Hugging him, she sobbed and said, "I'm going to miss you so much. I'll always love you." Then she whispered a prayer. "Dear Jesus, please help me do this."
When James, the dog handler in charge, came to collect Sparky the next morning, Sarah's eyes were stinging and red.
"It's okay to cry," said James. "I know you're heartbroken about losing Sparky. You and your mom have done a wonderful job looking after him. Now, by letting him go, you're helping a blind man who needs him. Sparky will change his life, and you'll be free to foster and train another dog for someone else who needs help."
Tears streaming down her face, Sarah waved goodbye to Sparky as he left.
Once inside, Mom hugged her. "I'm so proud of you. You've been brave and unselfish. I know how difficult this is for you, but your sacrifice has given a man hope." Mom smiled at her. "That's like what Jesus did for us. He made a much bigger sacrifice when He died on the cross so we could have the hope of eternal life with Him."
"I prayed and asked Him to help me do this, and He did," said Sarah. "But it still hurts." She dried her eyes. "Can we pray for Sparky and the blind man?"
Mom nodded, and as they prayed, Sarah's heart was at peace. Even though letting go of Sparky was difficult, she knew Jesus would use him to help someone in need.
-Cindy Lee
How About You?
Have you ever made a sacrifice for someone? Though it can be very hard, letting go of something so someone else can be blessed by it is one way to show people God's love. God loves us so deeply that Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice on the cross so we could be saved and have eternal life. He can help you let go of something when it's hard so that you can bless others.
Today's Key Verse:
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. (NIV) (Philippians 2:3)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God to help you bless others
Bible Reading: Romans 5:1-5, 8:28; James 1:2-4
A big nose blew a gust of air into the side of Torin's head, and he turned and patted his grandparents' horse Firefly on the head before continuing to brush her glossy brown coat. He was glad his parents had let him come to Wyoming to help with the chores on the ranch for a while, after everything that had happened. In late May, his grandmother got sick and had to go to the hospital. Then one day when Grandpa was going to see her, another car crashed into his. Grandpa wasn't hurt, but the car was totally wrecked. That same week, a pine tree behind the stables had been struck by lightning and burned down.
Torin finished brushing Firefly and sent her out to the pasture. He thought about asking Grandpa if he wanted to go horseback riding later that day, but Grandpa always seemed tired from taking care of Grandma, who was home now and in bed most of the time. Grandpa would probably want to go to bed early so he wouldn't be tired at church in the morning. I don't see how they can still trust God after everything that's happened to them, Torin thought.
"Care to take a walk?" asked Grandpa after church the next day.
"Sure," said Torin. As they passed the remains of the tree that had burned, Torin pointed to the ground. "Look! Some of the pine cones don't even look burned."
Grandpa picked one up. "That tree was a lodgepole pine," he told Torin. "This kind of cone only opens when it's exposed to a great deal of heat. A fire seems like a bad thing, but there will soon be new trees growing because of it." Grandpa smiled. "Through His marvelous handiwork, God ensures that even a fire will result in something good."
"I didn't know God made pine cones like that," said Torin.
"He sure did." Grandpa handed the pine cone to Torin. "It's been a rough summer for us. Sometimes it's easy to get discouraged, but when I look at these pine cones, I'm comforted. I know God can bring good out of the fiery trials we face. He cares for us, Torin, and He won't let anything we experience go to waste. He can use the hard things that happen in our lives to help us grow to be more like Jesus and remind us of the hope and joy we have in Him."
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Have you experienced bad things in your life? Remember that Jesus is there for you. He cares about the forest enough to make sure new life comes from a fire, and He cares about you even more. Look to Him for comfort and peace when bad things happen, and trust Him to bring good out of the difficult experiences in your life.
Today's Key Verse:
When troubles of any kind come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. (NLT) (James 1:2)
Today's Key Thought:
God cares for you
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:6-9; Colossians 1:24-27; 2:2-3
Becca and her mom sat on the back porch, reading and drinking iced tea.
"I just finished my third mystery!" Becca closed her book with a smile. "I love reading mysteries and trying to guess the endings. I'm pretty good at it."
"I like mysteries too." Mom grinned at Becca. "My favorite mystery book is the Bible!"
Becca gave her a strange look. "The Bible isn't a mystery, Mom."
Mom laughed. "Sure it is! A mystery is something hidden being revealed, right?"
"Yeah, but you usually don't find out who did it until the end."
Mom took a sip of her tea. "In the Old Testament, God told His people He would send a Savior to save the world from sin and all the bad stuff that happens because of it. Though we get clues about Him all throughout the Old Testament, that Savior isn't revealed until the New Testament. Then we meet Jesus, God's Son."
"Well, maybe you're right. If someone reads the Bible from the very beginning, and they don't already know who the hero is, they'll probably be surprised!"
"Whoever wants to solve the mystery of life should read this book." Mom held up her Bible. "It reveals the answer to that mystery--Jesus. It tells us why the world is the way it is and what God is doing to fix it. But, for those who don't know about Jesus and how He died and rose again to save them, life won't make sense and will remain a mystery."
"Henry, a boy in my class, told everyone there's no such thing as life after death," said Becca. "He said people just turn back to dirt after they die. That might have made sense to me if I didn't already know about Jesus."
Mom nodded. "Unfortunately, many people don't know the answer to the mystery. They believe this world is all there is. It's up to us to give them a spoiler alert and point them to the answer God gives us in the Bible."
"I'll try to do that with Henry." Becca pointed to the Bible her mom held in her lap. "I love mysteries, but I'm glad I already know the ending to that book. Otherwise, life would be pretty scary!"
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Have you solved the mystery of life? The answer to that mystery is in the Bible, and--spoiler alert--it's Jesus! When we wonder what the future holds or what will happen to us after we die, we can look to Jesus, who came to fix our broken world and give us eternal life. This is one ending you can share with others even before they read it in the Bible for themselves!
Today's Key Verse:
My goal is that they…may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ. (NIV) (Colossians 2:2)
Today's Key Thought:
The Bible reveals God's mystery--Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 34:8-14
"Yummy!" Sophie squealed as she popped another blueberry into her mouth.
Amber giggled. "Sophie is having so much fun."
"When you were little like your sister, you used to do the same thing," Mimi said. "There's just something special about picking blueberries for the first time."
"And picking them off your blueberry bushes--well, that makes them taste even sweeter!" Amber added.
Amber continued picking blueberries with her sister and grandmother until their baskets were full. "Now," said Mimi, "let's go inside and make some blueberry pancakes!"
Once inside, everyone washed their hands, and Mimi got out all the ingredients to make the pancakes.
"I help! I help!" Sophie said as she knelt on a chair next to the counter.
Mimi smiled and said, "You can help stir the batter. Amber, would you start adding in some of the ingredients?"
Amber mixed in the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt as Mimi read off the recipe. Then Mimi poured in the egg and milk. "Okay, Sophie, you can start stirring."
Sophie began to slowly stir all the ingredients. She was extra careful not to splash any out of the bowl.
Once the dry ingredients had been mixed in well, Amber dumped in the blueberries, and Mimi heated up the griddle.
"These pancakes are delicious, Mimi," Amber said as she ate one a few minutes later.
"The blueberries are really sweet this year, and that makes the pancakes extra yummy," Mimi said. "You know, that reminds me of a verse in the Bible. Psalm 34:8 says, 'Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!'"
"What does that verse mean, Mimi?" Amber asked.
"Well, remember how excited Sophie got today when she tasted the sweet blueberries for the first time? That's what knowing God can be like for us. The more we get to know Jesus through the truth of His Word, the Bible, the more we discover His goodness and love for us and know we can always trust Him."
"More pancakes! More pancakes!" Sophie called out.
Mimi laughed. "I think I know a little someone who has tasted the goodness of blueberries!"
=Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you personally experienced God's goodness and love in your life? First you need to trust Jesus as your Savior. (See "Have You Heard the Good News?" on page 102.) Then dig deep into God's Word and let His words take root in your heart. In doing so, you will discover how good God is and how much He loves you. He wants you to taste the sweetness of knowing Him!
Today's Key Verse:
How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey. (NLT) (Psalm 119:103)
Today's Key Thought:
Get to know Jesus
Bible Reading: Jeremiah 17:9-10; Matthew 23:23-28
"Half of these nuts aren't any good," complained Gracie, who had been cracking walnuts for the dessert her mother was making. "They're black and dried up on the inside." She picked up a nut and showed it to her mother.
"Don't bother cracking the bad ones," said her brother Calvin, who had just come into the kitchen. "Dump those and use the good ones."
Gracie scowled at him. "You can't tell which ones are good. They all look fine on the outside."
"I bet I can tell," Calvin said, shaking one. "This one's good." Gracie took it and cracked it open. Sure enough, it was good. "See," said Calvin, grinning. "I'll pick them out for you." He chose another one. "This one's good too." Gracie cracked it open, but it was dried up. Calvin frowned and handed her another nut. It wasn't good either.
"You can't tell any better than I can," declared Gracie, taking a nut Calvin had rejected. "I'll try this one." She was delighted to find that it was good.
"Let's split them up and see who can find the most good ones," said Calvin.
Gracie laughed. "Okay."
As they ate the dessert that evening, Gracie told Dad about the trouble with the walnuts. "Those nuts sound like people," said Dad.
Calvin's eyes twinkled. "Are you saying we're nuts?"
Dad laughed. "What I mean is that people can appear to be Christians. We may look good on the outside, but what would others see if they could look inside at our hearts and minds? The outside doesn't always match the inside. Jesus said the religious people in his day, the Pharisees, were like that. They appeared to be good, but they really were hypocrites."
Mom nodded. "You kids had trouble telling which nuts were good, and others can't really tell for sure if our hearts are in the right place. But God knows. He sees through the shell and knows what each of us is like on the inside. He knows whether we've truly trusted Jesus to save us from sin and give us a new, clean heart."
Gracie nodded. "We can't fool God."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you go to church, treat people well, and avoid bad things? That's good, and doing those things may make others think you're a Christian. But are you really? People only see what's on the outside, but God can see what's in your heart. Doing good things can't clean your heart of sin--only Jesus can do that. Trust Him as your Savior and He will make you clean. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
On the outside you seem righteous to people, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness. (CSB) (Matthew 23:28)
Today's Key Thought:
Be clean inside
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-33
"Mom, I'm scared," Presley whispered in the middle of the night. "I can't sleep. I keep thinking about Isabel and her car accident. What does intensive care unit mean?"
Mom offered her a much-needed hug. "Presley, have you not been able to sleep because of this? It's scary, isn't it? Intensive care unit means she's getting extra care at the hospital right now."
"I woke up wondering if I will ever see Isabel again," Presley said. "I would miss her so much."
Presley's mom went to the kitchen and came back with two glasses of milk. "I know this is really hard. I've been praying for Isabel and her family ever since Pastor Jim called. The doctors are doing all they can, but it's possible she may not survive."
Tears welled up in Presley's eyes. "How could God let this happen?"
Mom shook her head. "Some things we just don't know. The best thing we can do is trust God."
"But how?" asked Presley. "I just get a sick feeling in my stomach whenever I think about it."
"Here." Mom picked up a stack of textbooks Presley brought home from school that day. "Hold these in your arms. How would you like to carry these books for days, weeks, months, maybe even years?"
Presley felt the weight of the books sink into her arms. "I'd get tired of carrying them. They're heavy."
"Don't you think worry is the same way? We can choose to carry our fear and worry, but we get tired of carrying it because it's so heavy. Or we can let God carry it for us, knowing He loves us so much that He sent His own Son, Jesus, to set us free from sin and make us His children." As she said this, she took the books from Presley, relieving her of the heavy weight. "See? How does that feel?"
"Much better," Presley replied with a small smile. "I guess I need to trust God to carry my worry about Isabel for me."
"We'll pray together," said Mom as she tucked Presley back under the covers. "And then you get some sleep. Maybe we'll be able to go visit Isabel in the hospital tomorrow."
-Meredith Brower
How About You?
Do you ever get scared or worried about bad things that could happen? God knows that worry is a heavy burden that's too hard to carry by yourself. That's why He tells us to give our worries and fears to Him. Pray and give your worries to God. He loves you and is more than happy to carry them for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Give your worries to God
Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:3; Hebrews 4:13-16
"Happy third birthday, Jake," Elizabeth said, handing her younger brother his present. It was beautifully wrapped up in superhero paper. "Hope you like it."
They were having a party outside in the garden for him with some families from church. Jake glanced up before giving a loud shriek and yelling. He left the package on the table and ran inside. Dad followed him.
"What have I done? Why doesn't he want my gift?" Elizabeth asked, blushing. "I saved up my pocket money to buy him something special. Now he's crying and run off!"
"Darling, you haven't done anything," Mom said. "He's tired. You know he doesn't like change. It's all been too much for him having so many people around. It's not your fault."
Elizabeth couldn't concentrate on the conversations around her. Her thoughts rattled with the memory of Jake and his outburst. Why did I even bother? she thought crossly, taking the unopened gift and throwing it on a chair. Soon Dad calmed Jake down and brought him outside again.
Elizabeth struggled to taste the party food she usually loved and was glad when all the visitors had left. Dad took Jake upstairs to get ready for his bedtime story and prayers.
"Are you okay, sweetheart?" Mom asked, picking up the unopened gift. "Dad and I are both proud of you and your efforts to make this a special day for your brother."
"I'm disappointed, I guess." Elizabeth sighed. "I know feeling overwhelmed is part of Jake's condition, but I wish he'd opened my gift. I was so excited about it."
"I know, sweetheart. Your brother is tired, but tomorrow he'll be refreshed and still have your present to look forward to. I'm sure he'll treasure it." Mom gave her a hug. "Life can feel overwhelming for all of us sometimes, but like Jake, we still have wonderful gifts from God that we can enjoy. He fills our lives with blessings, and no matter what we're going through, we can always enjoy the greatest gift of all--the love and presence of Jesus, who understands how we feel and promises to help us through our struggles."
Elizabeth smiled as she thought about the gift from God she could enjoy every day--a relationship with His Son, Jesus.
-Cindy Lee
How About You?
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by what's going on in your life? Even in the midst of struggles, you can enjoy the many blessings God wants to give you. Out of love, God sent His Son, Jesus, to repair the damaged relationship we had with Him. Because of that gift, we never have to face our struggles alone. Jesus is always with us, and He brings new blessings into our lives every day.
Today's Key Verse:
Be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age. (NLT) (Matthew 28:20 )
Today's Key Thought:
Enjoy God's blessings
Bible Reading: John 9:1-7
Seth crept into the dark room. He switched on the lamp and waved his arms back and forth above the crib. Leah didn't notice him. She was blind.
"Hi, baby," he whispered. She turned her tiny head toward the sound of his voice. He patted her hand through the bars.
"What are you doing in here?" asked Mom, coming in from the hallway.
"I'm trying to make Leah see me," Seth said.
Mom spread a quilt on the floor. "I'm not sure she'll ever be able to see you, Seth. But she can hear your voice and feel your touch."
Seth sighed. "Why did God give her eyes that don't work?"
Mom lifted Leah out of her crib and laid her on the quilt beside Seth. "We don't always understand the ways of the Lord, but we know that He can use the bad things that happen to us for good."
"Blind eyes aren't good," said Seth.
"The Bible tells a story about a man born blind like Leah," said Mom. "People questioned Jesus about that man's eyes too." Leah gripped Seth's finger as Mom continued. "Jesus said the man was born blind so the world could see the great love and awesome power of God." Mom stroked Leah's cheek. "Then Jesus healed the man and he was no longer blind."
"Is Jesus going to heal Leah?" asked Seth.
"I pray for that every day," said Mom. "As we wait for His answer, we can pray that Leah will hear God's voice and that He will give her special eyes to see Him with her heart."
"I don't need eyes in my heart because my other eyes can see, right, Mom?"
"Everyone needs heart-eyes," said Mom. "We are all blind like Leah until we listen to God's voice and turn to Jesus."
"My Sunday school teacher says the Bible is God's voice," said Seth.
"She's right," said Mom. "God's Word tells us why we need Jesus to save us from sin. When God opens our eyes to its truth, we can see His great love for us."
Seth jumped up and bolted from the room. He returned with his Bible and plopped onto the quilt. "I think Leah will like the rainbow story."
Leah turned her face toward Seth as he read God's Word.
-Trine Grillo
How About You?
Are you able to see with the eyes of your heart? Seeing with your heart-eyes is more important that seeing with your physical eyes, because that's the only way to see God's great love for you. The Bible is God's Word, and it tells us who God is and what He did to save us. As you read and listen to His Word, trust God to open the eyes of your heart and help you hear His voice.
Today's Key Verse:
I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you. (NIV) (Ephesians 1:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Listen to God's voice
Bible Reading: Psalm 16:2, 11; Philippians 1:6, 9-11; 1 Peter 3:10-11
Not another essay! Serena groaned to herself as the teacher wrote the subject on the board: What I Want to Be When I Grow Up. I hate writing essays. Besides, I don't know what I want to be. Serena sighed and wrote down the topic.
At home that evening, Serena complained about the assignment. "How do I know what I'll want to do when I'm older? I'm just a kid!"
Dad smiled as he lit a candle on the table. "You don't have to commit to any career right now, but it doesn't hurt to think about what you might enjoy doing. In fact, I think you're already doing that. Just a couple days ago you and your sister hauled me into your doctor's office to check my ears and blood pressure. And a couple days before that, you and your brother were talking about settling on the moon."
Serena grinned. "Maybe I will be a doctor someday. Or an astronaut. I don't know. But I can tell you what I don't want to be--an author. I don't like writing."
"That's okay, but who knows? That may change," said Dad. "Just remember that your career isn't the most important thing in life anyway." He pointed to the flame of the candle. "Someone once told me our lives are like a flame. Is a flame a good thing or a bad thing?"
"Well, it could be either one," said Serena. "It could light a fire to cook food or provide warmth--that would be good. But it could do really bad things too, like start a fire that burns down a house or injures someone."
Dad nodded. "Exactly. So, how is a person's life like a flame?"
Serena hesitated. "Because it could be used for either good or bad?"
"Yes," said Dad. "Life is a precious gift from God, but it's meant to be lived in relationship with Him. That's why we need to trust in Jesus. Even though Christians still make mistakes in life and do things that are wrong, Jesus forgives us and works through us to do good things. You don't need to know right now what you want to be when you grow up. Just know that, no matter what career you have, Jesus will use your life for good because you trust in Him."
-Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Do you know what you want to be when you grow up? You don't need to decide right now, though it's not too early to start thinking about it. What's really important isn't what you do but who you know. Do you know Jesus? Do you have a relationship with Him? If not, you can know Him as your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then trust Him to guide your steps and use your life for good.
Today's Key Verse:
Your goodness and mercy will be with me all my life. (ERV) (Psalm 23:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus to use your life for good
Bible Reading: Jeremiah 29:12-13; 1 Peter 3:12
"Grandma, you're on mute. You have to tap the little microphone icon to turn your sound on," ten-year-old Samara instructed her grandmother over the video call. "I can see your mouth moving but I don't know what you're saying," Samara said in frustration. She was eager to tell her grandmother about her dance recital. "Let me call you back and see if that will turn your microphone on."
She ended the call then tapped the video call button again. After a few rings, her grandmother picked back up.
"Can you hear me now? I think it's working this time," Grandma said.
"Yes! I can hear you! Grandma, did you see the video Mom sent you of me dancing?"
"Oh yes, you were wonderful, honey! I can't believe how well you can dance!" Grandma and Samara talked for nearly an hour about her recital, and at the end Samara was so happy she could share her experience with her grandmother even though she didn't live nearby.
She tangoed into the kitchen and gave Mom her phone back. "I heard you had some trouble hearing Grandma at first. I bet she was frustrated when you couldn't hear her," Mom commented as she worked on her computer.
"Yeah, it was hard to talk when I couldn't even hear her!" Samara said as she nibbled on a snack.
"That reminds me of you the other night, when you didn't want to pray because you thought God couldn't hear you. But prayer works a lot better than a video call! God always hears you when you pray." Mom always found a way to make a lesson out of anything.
Samara thought about that, then said, "But what about everyone else praying? I bet He gets pretty busy listening to everybody's prayers."
"Because He is infinite, God has the ability to hear all their prayers and yours too." Mom clapped her laptop shut. "God is never too busy to listen to your prayers, Samara. He loves you--He sent Jesus to die for your sins so you could be His child forever! He's not far away from you like Grandma is--He's always with you. You can talk to Him anytime." Mom gave Samara a hug. "So, do you think you'll try talking to God again?"
Samara nodded. "Yeah, now I know God will always hear me!"
-Dylan Kraayenbrink
How About You?
Do you ever wonder if God hears your prayers? What if He's too busy doing something else, or what if you're not praying hard enough? God is never too busy for His children--He loves you and is always happy to hear from you. He is with you all the time and will always listen when you pray. You can talk to Him anytime and trust that He will hear you.
Today's Key Verse:
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and his ears are attentive to their prayer. (NIV) (1 Peter 3:12)
Today's Key Thought:
God always hears your prayers
Bible Reading: Genesis 3:1-6; James 4:7
During their vacation by the sea, Lena and her family visited an old lighthouse in the area. "What does a lighthouse do, Daddy?" asked Lena's little sister Arianna.
"It shines light far and wide, so ships out at sea are guided to a safe place to dock," Dad told her.
"Yes, but do you know what some people used to do long ago?" Mom pointed out toward the sea. "Can you see those rocks way over there? Well, sometimes men called wreckers would light their lamps and swing them over there near those rocks. The ships' captains would think that was a safe harbor, and then they'd end up on the rocks."
"That's horrible!" said Lena. "Why would anyone do that?"
"Well, after the ship crashed into the rocks, the wreckers would steal the cargo," said Mom. "Ships often carried gold in those days."
"I'm glad there are no wreckers now," said Arianna.
Lena nodded. She shuddered as she studied the sharp, cruel-looking rocks.
"Actually, we still need to watch out for wreckers," said Dad. "But I don't mean the ship-wrecking kind. Satan is a wrecker--a master wrecker. He makes evil things look attractive and appealing so we're tempted to go after them."
"Like what?" asked Lena.
"Well, how about greed?" said Dad. "While it's not wrong to be rich--in fact, the Bible says everything we have is a gift from God--Satan wants us to love money more than we love God. He wants us to be willing to do anything to get what we want, even if it means hurting others, so he may try to make having lots of money look really good to us. We need to remember that it's Jesus who satisfies our souls, not anything we own."
Mom nodded. "Pride is another thing Satan tries to disguise as good. I used to think it was good for me to try to do everything myself, but Jesus reminded me that He didn't save me from sin so I could do life on my own. I needed to depend on Him for help."
"Good example," said Dad. "Ships often got wrecked on those rocks out there, and Satan tries to lead us astray with his false lights. We need to keep our eyes on the one true light--Jesus--and trust Him to lead us to safety."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Is Satan trying to make something bad look good to you? Remember that he is a life-wrecker. He wants to lure you away from God's truth and His path for your life. Don't let him fool you. Remember that you belong to Jesus and that He loves you and promises to help you. Let His light guide you, not the false lights of Satan.
Today's Key Verse:
Satan disguises himself as an angel of light. (CSB) (2 Corinthians 11:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't listen to Satan
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 13:11; 1 Thessalonians 5:15
Danar was silent as he rode home from his first pencak silat competition. He had been looking forward to the Indonesian martial arts competition and had even won third place, but now he found it hard to celebrate.
His father looked at him. "You've been awfully quiet, Danar," Ayah said. "What's the matter?"
Danar sighed, then blurted out, "I gave up my free time and rode my bike really far to go cheer Budi's soccer game last week, and Ucok's mathlete the week before. They both said they were coming today, but they didn't show up. And they didn't explain why either." Danar glanced at his phone, but there were no new messages.
"I'm sorry to hear that, Danar. It hurts when people don't show up for you."
Danar crossed his arms. "Well, I'm never going to show up for them again!"
Ayah frowned. "Danar, have you heard the saying 'An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind'?" Danar shook his head. "It means that trying to get back at people for the ways they hurt us doesn't help anyone, because everyone does hurtful things," Ayah said. "We all make mistakes and sin against God and one another. Each one of us would deserve revenge because everyone is guilty." Ayah turned to look at Danar. "If Jesus had followed the practice of an eye for an eye, do you think anyone would be saved?"
"No," Danar said. "We all deserve to be punished for our sins, but Jesus took the punishment for us. We learned a verse about that at church--'While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.'"
Ayah nodded. "And He tells us to forgive others when they hurt us."
"I know. I just don't understand why my friends didn't even bother to tell me they weren't coming." Danar looked dejected.
"Why don't you try to talk to them? Maybe something happened," said Ayah.
"All right." Just then, Danar's phone beeped. "Ayah, Budi just texted me, and Ucok is in the hospital! He got into a bicycle accident on his way home from the park. He was playing soccer with Budi--they must have forgotten about my competition." Danar looked at his father. "Can we go to the hospital now?"
"Sure thing." Ayah made a turn for the hospital.
-Ruth Setyadi
How About You?
Do you sometimes feel that people treat you badly? Do you wish you could get back at them? It may seem like the fair thing to do, but the Bible tells us not to seek revenge. Instead, we need to remember God's love for us and surrender our desire for revenge to Him. We're all guilty of sinning against God, but instead of punishing us for our wrongs, Jesus died for us. Trust Him to help you forgive others when they hurt you.
Today's Key Verse:
God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (NIV) (Romans 5:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't take revenge
Bible Reading: Isaiah 64:8; 1 Corinthians 4:6-7; 1 Peter 4:10-11
"I don't understand why Miss Wong picked Melanie to sing the solo at church instead of me," said Freya as she flattened a stick of red modeling clay onto the table. "I'm the best singer in the choir, and I have a much better stage presence than Melanie." She tossed her hair over her shoulder. "Miss Wong says I have a natural talent for music."
"And a natural talent for bragging!" muttered Brody. Freya made a face at her brother as she started shaping the clay into a slender vase. "Don't be jealous just because I'm smarter than you." Brody sighed impatiently and left the room. Freya stood back to admire her handiwork. "I wish I could fire this vase in a kiln so it would hold water, but it will look pretty just sitting on a shelf." She smiled at her mom. "Mrs. White says I'm quite the artist."
Mom glanced at Freya's work. "Well, that blue bowl you made yesterday looks fantastic! And this red clay vase is turning out so well too. Both of those pottery pieces must be very smart and talented to be so nicely made."
"What do you mean?" asked Freya, frowning. "Things aren't smart or talented. I am--I made them. They were just sticks of clay. I'm the one responsible for the way they turned out."
"That's true," said Mom. "That's like people, isn't it? For example, you may be smart and artistic and a good singer, but who is responsible for that? Who made you that way?"
Freya looked down at the table. "God did," she mumbled at last.
"So who should receive the credit and praise?" asked Mom.
"God," Freya admitted.
Mom nodded. "God is the one who gave you your talents and abilities--and He gives them to everyone else too. They're not all the same, but they're all equally important, because they're meant to be used to bring glory to Jesus and share His love with others. We can trust Him to help us do that." Mom pointed to Freya's vase. "Just like you're carefully shaping that lump of clay into a beautiful vase, God is shaping us to be more like Jesus. So don't brag about the things you're able to do. Instead, remember they're gifts from Him and use them to serve others."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Are you talented at certain things? Do you let others know that God is responsible for the things you do well? All your abilities and gifts were given to you by God. He gives everyone different but equally important gifts so we can use them to serve one another in love. So don't brag about the things you can do. Instead, use your gifts to show others how God is shaping you to be more like Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Who do you think you are? Everything you have was given to you…why do you act as if you got it all by your own power? (ERV) (1 Corinthians 4:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't brag
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:1-10
"This camping trip was fun," said Jack as he helped Dad pull out the stakes that held their sturdy tent in place. "But I miss Grandpa. He would have loved this."
Dad stretched out an arm and drew Jack close. "I miss him too," Dad said gently. "But he's with Jesus now."
Jack nodded. "I know. I just wish he didn't have to die."
Dad was silent as they folded up the tent. Jack patted it affectionately. "Jack," said Dad, "I know it's a little sad to be packing up our tent and leaving, but aren't you looking forward to being home again?"
"Sure," said Jack. "I miss Mom." He grinned impishly. "Believe it or not, I even miss Topher!"
Dad laughed. "Yeah, you miss teasing him!" He began rolling up the folded tent. "Jack, this camping trip may help us understand something about dying." Jack raised his eyebrows and waited for Dad to explain. "We had a fun weekend living in a tent and cooking outdoors, didn't we?" asked Dad.
Jack nodded. His eyes sparkled as he remembered their campfires and games and visits with the neighboring campers.
"The tent was a temporary home for us," continued Dad. "But now it's time to pack it up and go back to our real home. I know Mom and Topher are waiting to welcome us." He paused. "In a way, when Grandpa died, he packed up his tent too."
"Not that big green tent he always used?" Jack said.
"No, I mean his body," said Dad. "For seventy-five years, this world was a temporary home for him. But then his body got sick and died, and he went to be with Jesus. The Bible tells us our real home is with Jesus--being with Him is better than being anywhere else! And one day, Jesus will make us a new permanent home on earth, and He'll give Grandpa and every other Christian a body that will never get sick or die. Until then, Grandpa will be with Jesus in heaven."
Jack nodded. "I know he's glad to be with Jesus, even though he liked it here too." He smiled at his dad. "Just like we enjoyed camping but are glad to be going home."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Has someone you love died? Do you ever worry about your own death? Losing our loved ones is sad, but if you trust Jesus as your Savior, you don't need to be afraid of dying. Your body is like a tent, and once it has served its purpose here on earth, it will be packed up and put away. Then you'll go home to be with Jesus, who will one day give you a new, perfect body that will last forever!
Today's Key Verse:
For we know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down…we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself. (NLT) (2 Corinthians 5:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Our permanent home is with Jesus
Bible Reading: Revelation 22:12-17
"Let's see who can find the brightest star," Garrett said to his sister one hot summer evening as they looked up at the starry sky. "The loser has to buy ice cream tomorrow."
"I don't think you can prove which one is the brightest," said Eden. But she suddenly pointed to the north. "That one's mine! That bright one up there."
Garrett squinted. "I think I see the one you mean, but I see a brighter one." He pointed in another direction. "See--right in the middle of that cluster of stars. That one's brighter than the one you found."
"How do you know that?" asked Eden. They continued searching the heavens as they argued about which star was brighter.
When Dad came out to tell them it was bedtime, Garrett and Eden told him about their competition and asked him to judge which star was brightest of all. "Okay, I'll do my best," Dad said, and they pointed out the stars they had chosen. "As judge," said Dad, "I declare that neither of those is the brightest star of all. In fact, I think the two of you should buy me ice cream because I know the brightest star personally."
"What do you mean, you know a star?" asked Eden. "We're not talking about football or movie stars, you know."
Dad laughed. "Neither am I. And I'm not talking about a star in the sky either. I'm talking about Jesus. In the last chapter of the Bible, which talks about the day He will return to earth as King, He's called the bright Morning Star. On that day, He will put an end to the darkness of sin and evil forever and fill the heavens and earth with His light, and everyone who knows Him as their Savior will reign with Him for all eternity. I'd say that's the brightest star of all, wouldn't you?"
"Okay, Dad." Garrett grinned at his father as he got up to go inside. "But no treat. You weren't in on the deal."
"And you're not the only one who knows the brightest star personally," added Eden. "We know Jesus too!"
"Well then," said Dad, "since you've both found the brightest star, how about I buy all of us ice cream tomorrow?"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you know Jesus--the bright Morning Star? When He returns to earth again as King, it will be the morning of a bright, new day--a glorious day that will never end! But He wants you to know Him as your Savior and King now. He invites you to come to Him. Trust in Him today so you can look forward to a bright future with Him that will last forever. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
I am Jesus…I am the bright Morning Star. (NLV) (Revelation 22:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Know Jesus as your Savior
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:19-25
Before eating her lunch, Aranya bowed her head and closed her eyes to pray. When she opened her eyes, her lunch bag had disappeared. A few kids watched her and snickered. Aranya sighed. "Who has my lunch?" Several kids burst into laughter.
"Ask God where your lunch is, Miss Christian," said Rob. "You always talk to Him, don't you?"
Mrs. Yates, their teacher, walked over. "The person who has Aranya's lunch will hand it over right now," she said sternly. She paused. "I said now," she repeated. Rob hesitated, then pulled Aranya's lunch bag from his backpack and handed it to her. She quietly took it.
When Aranya arrived home, she told her mother what had happened. "I was so embarrassed, Mom. Not all the kids in my class make fun of me, but some of them call me Miss Christian all the time. I just don't know how to act when they're mean to me. I really felt like throwing something at Rob today--and some of the other kids too--but I didn't."
"I'm sorry, Aranya." Mom gave her a hug. "Your teacher emailed me about what happened, and she's talking to some of the other parents." Mom sighed. "The Bible tells us we'll be mocked and persecuted at times for following Jesus, but knowing that doesn't make it any easier, does it?"
Aranya shook her head. "I keep thinking about how when Jesus was persecuted, He didn't fight or talk back."
Mom nodded. "Follow His example." She paused, then asked, "Do you remember the book you used when you were learning to write? There were letters and words printed on the top line of each page. You copied them the best you could."
"And Jesus is my example for how to act when kids tease me, right?" asked Aranya thoughtfully. "I should copy Him." She sighed. "But I'm not perfect like He is."
"No, but since you trust in Him, you have the Holy Spirit, who is helping you become more like Him," Mom said. "Think about how your letters looked when you first started copying them. Your writing looks a lot more like the letters at the top of the page now than it did when you started. And as you follow Jesus's example, trust Him to let others see more and more of His love in you."
-Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Has anyone made fun of you for being a Christian? How did you react? The next time someone teases you because of your faith, ask yourself how Jesus would act if He were in your place. Then trust Him to help you respond to those making fun of you in a loving way instead of trying to hurt them back. When you copy Jesus, you let others see His love in you.
Today's Key Verse:
God called you to do good, even if it means suffering, just as Christ suffered for you. He is your example. (NLT) (1 Peter 2:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Copy Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11; Isaiah 41:10
As Parker boarded the airplane with his grandmother, he had a lump in his throat. His parents were getting a divorce, and he was going to stay with his grandparents for a while. He felt as dark and gloomy as the day around him--not at all excited about flying on a plane for the first time in his life.
Grandma gave him a reassuring smile. "Scared?" she asked.
Parker shook his head--but inside he screamed, Yes, I'm scared! I'm scared of everything. But he didn't say anything. As the plane sped down the runway, huge drops of rain splattered on the small windows. Just like tears, Parker thought. But he didn't cry.
When the plane lifted from the earth, Parker felt like his heart jumped into his throat. He took a deep breath. All around, dark clouds tumbled, and Parker's stomach felt uneasy. Grandma reached for his hand. "Don't be afraid," she said softly. "We'll get through this."
Parker knew his grandmother was talking about more than the plane ride. He knew she was also referring to the dark, stormy clouds in his life. He wanted to believe her, but there was so much fear in his heart.
"We're going to go right into some of those dark clouds, Parker," said Grandma. "For a few minutes, we'll be in a thick fog, because that's what clouds are--fog. But just wait until we get above the clouds. You'll see."
As Grandma spoke, dark clouds closed in all around them. The interior of the plane dimmed. Then suddenly, a brilliant light came streaming through the windows. Parker squinted as he pressed his nose to the window pane. "Wow!"
Grandma looked over Parker's shoulder at the bright blue sky outside the window. "Even when we can't see it, the sun is always shining. It still shines above the clouds." She smiled and gently patted Parker's hand. "Our family is going through a dark cloud right now, Parker. Things look pretty bad to us, but remember that Jesus is still with us. Even in the darkness, the light of His love never stops shining. He will help us get through this dark time, and one day He will make everything in our broken world right again. Someday we'll break through the clouds."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Are you going through a storm in your life? Are you afraid of the future? Whatever storm you're going through, remember that the sun is shining even when you can't see it. And God is near even when it doesn't feel like it. If you know Jesus as your Savior, He promises never to leave you. He will be with you and help you through life's storms and one day lift you above the clouds.
Today's Key Verse:
God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid. (NKJV)
(Isaiah 12:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus in hard times
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:6-9
"Mom!" Eloise shouted from the darkness of her bedroom.
Mom ran upstairs to find Eloise hiding under her covers, shaking. "Eloise, what's wrong? Are you sick?" Mom asked anxiously.
"No, I'm not sick. I'm, um, scared," mumbled Eloise.
"What has you so scared, sweetie?" asked Mom.
"I don't want to tell you." Eloise peeked out at her mom. "You'll get mad at me."
"I promise I won't get mad," Mom assured her. "You can tell me anything."
"Well, when I was at Madeline's today, we watched a movie. It was all about people getting chased and hurt. Now I can't get those thoughts out of my head!"
Mom was quiet as she smoothed the blankets on Eloise's bed. "Do you remember last weekend when your softball team was in the playoffs?" asked Mom.
"Yeah," replied Eloise. "We were so nervous--our opponents were undefeated!"
"And do you remember what your coach told you before the game?"
Eloise nodded, remembering her coach's words. "He said, 'Don't think about all the games they've won or the home runs they've hit. Instead, think about how well you guys play as a team. Remember what you've practiced and focus on getting the bat to make contact with the ball and your glove grabbing the ball out of the air. Think positive!'" Eloise smiled. "I think it worked, because we won!"
"You sure did," said Mom. "The Bible tells us to do the same thing."
"It does?" asked Eloise with a puzzled look.
"Yup," said Mom. "A verse in Philippians tells us not to worry about anything, but instead to replace those worried thoughts with things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. You traded in your worried thoughts about the game for the truth of how well you're able to play as a team, and you can do the same thing with the thoughts you're having about the movie."
"I can?" Eloise sat up. "How?"
"Whenever we have scary or bad thoughts, we can focus on good things instead--like the truth that Jesus is always with us and wants us to give our fears to Him so we can feel His peace."
Eloise brightened and settled back into bed. "Thanks, Mom. I'm going to lie here and think about good things!"
-Laura Kuehn
How About You?
Have you ever seen or heard something that gave you bad thoughts? Do you sometimes struggle to get scary or worried thoughts out of your head? Don't let them take over. Tell Jesus about the thoughts you're having, and ask Him to help you trade them in for good thoughts. Replace them with the truth that Jesus loves you and promises to take care of you so you can feel His peace.
Today's Key Verse:
Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. (NLT) (Philippians 4:8 )
Today's Key Thought:
Think good thoughts
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-39; 1 John 4:13-16
SPLASH! Joelle's brother filled the trench between their two sandcastles with a full bucket of water.
"No!" Joelle's eyes filled with tears. "Now they can't get to each other!" She jumped to her feet. "Take the water away, Stanley!"
Her brother shook his head. "There has to be water in the moat."
"No!" Joelle looked between the two castles. "No!"
"What's going on?" Tessa, their babysitter, walked up to them. "Joelle, calm down."
"He put water between the castles!" Joelle pointed at her brother. "Now they can't get to each other!"
Tessa smiled. "Oh, and they're in love?"
"No!" Joelle stomped a foot. "Stanley has the king's house. He built a castle for him. And I built the princess's house. She's his daughter. Her daddy needs to be able to get to her."
"Oh." Tessa scratched her head. "Hmm…"
"There has to be water in the moat," Stanley said quickly.
"Well…" Tessa crouched down. "If the daddy loves the little girl, he will find a way to get to her." She picked up a shell and set it by Stanley's castle. "This is a boat for him to use to get to his daughter."
"What if the boat doesn't work?" Joelle asked, brushing at her eyes.
Tessa picked up a piece of driftwood and set it between the two castles. "And this is a bridge."
Joelle swallowed. Maybe that would work.
"If the daddy loves his princess, he'll find a way to get to her," Tessa said. "Just like God will always find a way to be with us. Nothing can ever separate us from Him. Jesus became human and died to save us, and He will always be with us."
"What about when we do bad things?" Stanley asked, looking up from his castle.
Tessa shook her head. "When we trust in Jesus, our sins are forgiven."
"What about when it's storming?" Joelle asked.
Tessa smiled and shook her head. "Are you asking about God or the people living in your castles?" she asked. "God won't let anything separate you and Him. That king in Stanley's castle is going to find a way to the princess, even if it starts to storm."
Joelle stared at her babysitter for a long minute before she smiled too. She liked the thought of that.
-Emily Acker
How About You?
Do you know that if you trust in Jesus, He is there with you no matter what you face? He isn't going to leave you because you do something bad or because your life is too messy. He came to earth, died for our sins, and then rose again so He could be with us forever. Nothing can separate God from His children. Even when you face storms in life, He will be with you.
Today's Key Verse:
Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NLT) (Romans 8:39)
Today's Key Thought:
Nothing can separate you from God
Bible Reading: Psalm 8:3-9; Isaiah 49:15
"I have a message for you," Leo's mom told him when he came in from playing outside. "Michael called a few minutes ago. He wants you to call him back."
"Michael Burke?" asked Leo in surprise. "I thought he was on vacation."
"No, it was Michael Watson," said Mom. "I forgot you had more than one friend named Michael."
Just then Leo's older sister burst into the room. "Guess what! I'm going to the church softball game with Michael!" she exclaimed. "He asked me today."
Leo laughed. "Which Michael?"
"I only know one Mi--" She stopped. "Oh, that's right. I do know other Michaels. Well, this one is Michael Ford."
Before going to bed that night, Leo prayed for his family and friends. He thought about a boy in his class at church who needed surgery. "Dear Lord, please be with Michael," Leo began. Then he paused. "You know--Michael Smith," he added. "The one who needs heart surgery."
Leo frowned as he thought about how many Michaels there were in the world. There must be lots of Lukes and Sophias and Bens too, he thought. And Leos! He had thought of God as his personal friend, but suddenly he felt like just one of millions of people. He felt small and unimportant.
A few days later, Leo's dad, who was a doctor, called from the hospital. "Michael had his surgery today, and he's doing fine," he told Leo. "Guess what? There are three other Michaels on this floor!"
"Well, I hope the doctors and nurses don't get them mixed up," said Leo.
Dad laughed. "There's even another Michael Smith here, but don't worry. Our Michael's mother is the head nurse on this floor. Believe me, she knows which Michael belongs to her!"
When Leo prayed for his friend that night, he knew he didn't have to remind God which Michael he was praying for--or which Leo was asking. Just as a mother knows her own son, God knows each of His children. God knows I belong to Him because I trust in Jesus, Leo thought. I'm just as special as if I were the only Leo in the whole world!
-Catherine Runyon
How About You?
Do you think God ever gets tired of caring for so many people? Do you wonder if He's too busy to hear your requests, fears, or problems? Don't worry! God knows each of His children, and every one is special to Him. He sent His own Son, Jesus, to die for you so you could belong to Him, and He cares about everything you go through in your life. He will never forget you!
Today's Key Verse:
I [God] have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine. (NKJV) (Isaiah 43:1)
Today's Key Thought:
God knows you personally
Bible Reading: John 14:1-6; Revelation 21:1-4
"What are you doing, Mom?" Cami asked as she walked out to the barn. Her mother stood at the open door.
"Watching some birds," said Mom softly. She pointed toward the rafters. Cami stood beside her mother, and together they quietly watched a bird fly into the barn with a small feather in its mouth. Another bird soon joined it, and Cami and her mom watched as the two birds flew back and forth, busily building a nest.
Suddenly Cami sneezed, and the birds flew away. "Oops! Sorry, little birds. I didn't mean to scare you off," said Cami.
"I'm sure they'll soon be back to finish their nest," said Mom.
"What kind of birds are those, Mom?" Cami asked as they turned to go back to the house.
"They're barn swallows," Mom replied.
"Cool! I should have recognized them. We learned about them at school. Our book said the birds gather mud and roll it into a pellet. They carry it back to the place they've picked out and use it to build a cup-shaped nest. Then they line it with grass and feathers."
"That's interesting," said Mom. "I didn't realize they used mud to build their special little nest."
"Special?" Cami made a face. "A mud nest doesn't sound very special to me!"
Mom laughed. "I guess that's because you're not a barn swallow." She opened the screen door to the house. "Did you know someone has made a special home for you too, Cami?"
"What?" Cami asked in surprise. "Are we going to move?"
Mom smiled and shook her head. "Jesus has prepared a very special place for you. The Bible says everyone who trusts Him as their Savior has a home with Him. He died and rose again to prepare that place for us--a special place in God's family. He is always with us, and one day, when He comes back, we'll live in a perfect world with Him forever. Isn't that a wonderful thing?"
Cami nodded. "Pastor Roberts talked about that last week." She grinned. "But the new world he told us about sounds much better than a mud nest!"
"No doubt about that!" said Mom. "A mud nest is great for barn swallows, but the home we have with Jesus is so much better."
-Sharon K. Regehr
How About You?
Do you have a home with Jesus? He went to the cross to prepare a special place for you in God's family. If you know Him as your Savior, you have a home with Him forever. He will be with you every day during your life on earth, and one day you'll live with Him for all eternity in a wonderful place with no tears, pain, sickness, or death. Make sure you have a special home with Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said,] I go to prepare a place for you. (NKJV) (John 14:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus has prepared a special home
Bible Reading: Psalms 19:7-14; 119:132-133
James clenched the arms of the dentist's chair, hoping Dr. Jones was nearly finished drilling out his cavity. It was a relief when the drill's buzzing stopped and Dr. Jones checked the tooth. "Are you finished yet?" James asked anxiously.
"Almost. Just a little more drilling, James. We want to make sure the tooth won't continue to decay underneath the new filling." He began drilling again. "If we don't get every bit of the decay out of this tooth, it will get worse and cause problems later on." Dr. Jones hesitated. "It's a bit like that with sin, isn't it? If we notice sin in our lives and ignore it, it will also cause problems later on."
"Uh-huh," James said, glad he couldn't talk while Dr. Jones was working. I'm not sure I like having my Sunday school teacher for my dentist, he thought.
"For example," continued Dr. Jones, "when I was younger, I used to tell a lot of little lies--white lies, they're often called. I didn't think they'd hurt anyone because they didn't seem like that big of a deal. But one day I told a white lie that got blown way out of proportion, and I had to keep telling bigger and bigger lies to cover it up. But the truth finally came out, and I got in big trouble. So now, if I ever catch myself telling a white lie, I confess it to Jesus and trust Him to help me tell the truth instead."
The buzzing stopped, and Dr. Jones grinned at James. "That should take care of this tooth. And if there are any cavities of sin in your life, be sure to get them drilled out too."
"By confessing them to Jesus?" James asked, feeling more relaxed now that the drilling was finished.
"Right," Dr. Jones said as he raised James's chair to a sitting position. "He always forgives us when we confess our wrongs to Him. He'll give you a fresh start whenever you need one." Dr. Jones handed James a mirror. "Just like the fresh start you got with that tooth today!"
James looked at his tooth in the mirror and grinned. "Thanks, Dr. Jones," he said as he got up from the dentist's chair. "See you Sunday!"
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Are there things in your life that you know aren't quite right? Maybe just a little lying, a little cheating, or a little talking about people behind their backs? There's no such thing as big and little sins--sin is simply wrong, and God hates it all. That's why Jesus died for us--to save us from sin so we can live a life of love instead. Confess your sins to Him and He will forgive you.
Today's Key Verse:
If we confess our sins to him, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness. (NLT) (1 John 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Confess sin
Bible Reading: Exodus 3:1-10; 2 Timothy 3:14-16
"We had a Bible story about Moses in my class at church today," Autumn told her family at dinner. "We learned that God talked to Moses from a burning bush. Our teacher says God still speaks to people."
Wesley jabbed his fork into a potato. "Maybe, but not through anything as interesting as a burning bush." He grinned. "I'd like to see one of those--and I don't mean the kind that has red leaves in the fall. I mean one that's really on fire!"
"Yeah!" said Autumn. "Imagine one of Mom's best bushes on fire and God speaking to us out of it!"
Mom laughed. "Make it a bush way at the back of the yard, will you? We don't want to burn the house down!"
"You know, it doesn't require a real burning bush for God to speak to us," said Dad. "That bush was just what got Moses's attention. It was when he stopped what he was doing to check it out that God spoke to him. Today God speaks to us through His Word, the Bible, and He often uses a different kind of burning bush to get our attention. The situations we face in life can help us turn our attention toward Him so we can listen to what He has to say."
"Like when Grandma died when I was little?" asked Wesley. "I had never really thought about death before, and it scared me. But then the pastor at Grandma's funeral talked about Jesus and how we don't have to be afraid of death because He died and rose again to save us from it, so I decided to trust Him as my Savior!"
Dad smiled and nodded. "The situations God allows in our lives to get our attention can often be difficult ones," he said. "God can use them to help us see how much we need Him."
"He uses people to do that too--like the pastor at Grandma's funeral," said Mom. "He got Wesley's attention by sharing the message of God's love when he needed to hear it."
"Right," said Dad. "And when Wesley trusted in Jesus, He received the Holy Spirit, who lives in us and gives us wisdom and understanding as we read and listen to God's Word."
Autumn grinned. "That's even better than a real burning bush!"
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you think God no longer speaks to people like He did in stories from the Bible? He does--through His Word, the Bible, and through the Holy Spirit. Sometimes He also uses the people and circumstances in our lives to help us pay attention and listen to what He has to say. So be on the lookout for anything He's trying to tell you. Are there any burning bushes in your life--people or circumstances that are pointing you toward Him?
Today's Key Verse:
When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all truth. (NLT) (John 16:13)
Today's Key Thought:
God still speaks to people today
Bible Reading: Luke 15:11-24
Grant didn't mind helping out on his uncle's farm. Some parts of the job were even fun. But there were a few things his uncle asked him to do that Grant could do without--like taking care of the pigs.
"They're just so messy," Grant said after helping his uncle feed the pigs.
Uncle Ron laughed. "They are messy," he agreed. "You know what they always make me think about?"
"Not me, I hope!" Grant made a face. "I'm not that stinky and messy."
Uncle Ron laughed again and led him toward the house. "No, not you. They make me think about the parable of the prodigal son in the Bible. Do you remember it?"
"Sort of," Grant said.
They went inside and washed up, and then his uncle grabbed his Bible from the shelf in the living room. "Jesus told a story about a young man who wanted to get away from home. He asked his dad for his inheritance--the money he would get when his dad passed away--and he took it and left."
Grant sat down and nodded. "He did some bad things with the money and ended up poor really quickly, right?"
"He did," Uncle Ron said. "But do you remember what happened to make him realize that he could go back to his father and ask for forgiveness?"
Grant shook his head.
"He was taking care of pigs." Uncle Ron smiled. "He was hungry enough to eat what he was feeding them. Then he realized that his father's servants had a better life than him and decided to ask his dad if he could be like one of them."
Uncle Ron opened the Bible and pointed out the story. "But when he returned home to ask his dad to let him come back as a servant, his father ran out and hugged him, and he forgave him and took him back as a son. Just like God forgives us when we make mistakes and loves us as His sons and daughters."
"I'm never going to look at the pigs the same way again," Grant said.
"You're going to enjoy feeding them now?" Uncle Ron asked.
Grant wrinkled his nose. "Well, they still stink," he said. "But it might not be quite so bad."
-Bethany Acker
How About You?
Have you ever been near pigs? They're really messy, aren't they? After the prodigal son in Jesus's parable spent all his money and had to take care of pigs to survive, he realized his life was really messy too. But his father forgave him, just like God forgives us. God loves you, and He will always love you, no matter what. Go to Him for forgiveness, and He will welcome you home as His beloved child.
Today's Key Verse:
You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you. (NIV) (Psalm 86:5)
Today's Key Thought:
God forgives and loves us
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:5-13; Hebrews 4:14-16
"I love chocolate!" Marylynn exclaimed as she watched her aunt put a piece of chocolate on top of a graham cracker.
Aunt Kari smiled. "I love chocolate too. Why don't you set your roasted marshmallow on top of this chocolate and I'll use the other graham cracker to take it off your stick."
Marylynn did as instructed, then set down her stick to take the plate her aunt gave her. "Yummy!"
"One moment, before we have our s'mores, let's pray and thank God for this delicious treat," Aunt Kari said.
Marylynn frowned. "I don't know how to pray."
"Well, praying is simple. You can talk to God just like you would a friend or like you would talk to me." Aunt Kari smiled at Marylynn's still-confused expression. "Let me teach you. We can use the s'more to remember one way to pray."
Aunt Kari picked up a graham cracker. "The first cracker is the greeting. You can start prayer by saying something like 'Dear God.'" She picked up a square of chocolate and set it on top of the graham cracker. "The second part is thanks for all God's sweet blessings--we can remember this because chocolate is sweet. You can thank God for the s'mores we're about to eat, and I can thank Him that I got to have you come visit tonight. Anything you're thankful for."
"Like my dog?" Marylynn asked.
Aunt Kari smiled. "Exactly like your dog." She picked up a marshmallow. "The next part of prayer is the sticky stuff, or the help we need. We can remember that part because marshmallows are sticky, especially on a s'more. You can ask God for help in anything, like if you had a test you were worried about. You can ask Him to keep you safe on your way home tonight."
"What about the other graham cracker?" Marylynn asked.
"That is the end of your prayer--saying amen. Amen means 'So be it.' It shows we know God is faithful and listens when we pray."
"So be it," Marylynn repeated.
Aunt Kari nodded. "God loves us so much, and He wants to have a relationship with us--that's why He sent His Son, Jesus, to save us from sin. Because of Jesus, we can talk to God anytime."
Marylynn smiled. "Okay, I'll pray now. Dear God..."
-Kimberly Brokish
How About You?
Do you like s'mores? Have you ever used them to pray before? It may seem silly--and make you a bit hungry--but it is a great way to remember how to pray. When we pray, we can tell God about anything going on in our lives, thank Him for all the blessings He's given us, and ask Him for help with anything we need. What will you pray about today?
Today's Key Verse:
Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. (NIV) (Colossians 4:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Talk to God in prayer
Bible Reading: Malachi 3:8-12; Luke 6:38; 2 Corinthians 9:7
As church began, Ginny was thinking about how she had finally earned enough money for a whole week at summer camp. For weeks she had been putting every cent she earned into the bank.
Ginny's thoughts were interrupted by a nudge on her elbow. The offering was being taken, and she hadn't given anything for a long time. But my money will be used for camp where I'll be learning more about Jesus, she thought, so she let the plate pass her by.
The following Saturday, Ginny's youth group had a cookout at their teacher's house. After they had eaten, the kids played with Miss Harper's little dog, Pixie. "Watch this," Miss Harper said, throwing a ball far across the lawn. Pixie sprinted after it, then ran back and dropped it into Miss Harper's hand. Each time Miss Harper threw the ball, Pixie got it and brought it back.
"This game wasn't much fun when I first got Pixie," said Miss Harper. "When I'd throw the ball, she'd grab it and run. She finally learned to bring it back, but for a while, she wouldn't let it go."
"Maybe she didn't know you'd throw it for her again," said Ginny. "Maybe she was afraid the game would be over if she gave up the ball."
Miss Harper nodded. "I think we're all a little like that sometimes. I know I was. I used to be afraid to let go of my money. I was afraid that if I gave any of it to the Lord, I wouldn't have enough left for myself." She smiled. "Pixie learned to trust me and let go of the ball, and I finally learned to trust God and let go of my money. And you know what? The more I gave, the more I felt His blessings and care in my life. When we needed a Savior, God didn't hold back--He gave us His Son, Jesus. He loves us that much, and we can trust Him to provide for our needs. When I was selfishly holding on to my money, I was only cheating myself, but God helped me trust Him so He could use my generosity to bless others."
Ginny thought about the money she had saved. I want to give part of that money back to God, she thought, and trust that He'll provide everything I'll need for camp!
-Catherine Runyon
How About You?
Do you give part of the money you receive to God? Maybe you think whatever amount you can give is too small to matter. But it does matter. God is the one who provides you with that money in the first place, and giving part of it back shows that you depend on Him for your needs. He loves you and wants to use your willingness to give to bless you and others. Give to God and trust Him to take care of you.
Today's Key Verse:
Give, and it will be given to you…with the same measure that you use, it will be measured back to you. (NKJV) (Luke 6:38)
Today's Key Thought:
Give faithfully
Bible Reading: Psalm 27:2-5; Romans 8:38-39
Waiting for the parade to begin, Evelyn watched as her sister buried her face in Mom's shoulder. Evelyn used to do that too when she was little. There was a woman talking to Mom, and Elise was scared of the stranger. Mom motioned Evelyn over.
Evelyn straightened up. It was okay for a toddler to bury her face, but Evelyn was ten, and she wasn't going to hide. She walked over and smiled when Mom introduced her to her friend.
The parade started with a loud siren ringing out. Evelyn covered her ears with her hands. She saw Elise bury her face in Mom's shoulder again. Part of her wished she could join her.
Evelyn watched as a band marched through the street. The clashing cymbals were her favorite. She hoped that she could be in a band like that one day. Next, there were horses, then a decorated truck.
Evelyn was enjoying the parade and barely noticed the rain as it started to fall. Then it started to thunder. Everyone scattered. She turned to where her mom had been, but she wasn't there.
Evelyn started to look around frantically for her family. "Mom! Where are you?"
A million thoughts went through Evelyn's head. She thought of all of the bad things that could happen. Then she heard her Sunday school teacher's voice in her head telling her that God was her safe place--that Jesus died for her sins so she could be safe with Him forever. She thought of her sister in Mom's arms. She wanted God to hold her like that.
Evelyn started to walk down the street, calling out for her mom. She prayed, asking God to keep her safe and help her find her family.
Finally, Evelyn heard her mom's voice. She turned and ran to her. This time, she let herself bury her face in her mom's shoulder.
"I'm so sorry," Mom said. "I thought you heard me tell you we were going to the shelter."
Mom had her arms wrapped tightly around her, and Evelyn didn't want to move. Ever. She realized that's how it felt to be sheltered by God. She smiled, glad that the safe place she had in Jesus felt as secure as being held by her mom.
-Emily Acker
How About You?
What is the safest you have ever felt? God can shelter you so you feel safe like that. Even though bad things happen in the world, we can feel safe because Jesus promises eternal life to those who trust in Him. Nothing can separate us from Him--not even death. If you don't yet know Him as your Savior, trust in Him today so you can feel the peace of being safe in His arms. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance. (NIV)
(Psalm 32:7)
Today's Key Thought:
God offers us shelter
Bible Reading: Romans 5:6-11
The somber black wall, engraved with rows and rows of names, filled Wylder with awe. He was visiting Washington, D.C. with his family, and he was standing in front of the monument honoring the men and women who had died while serving in the Vietnam War. All their names were listed on the wall.
An older man wearing a veteran's hat stood nearby. He seemed to be looking for something as he read the names. Then he placed a finger on one of them and began tracing the letters. Over and over he traced the letters of that name. Curious, Wylder edged closer. He was surprised to see tears on the man's cheeks. The man noticed him, and feeling embarrassed, Wylder backed away.
"It's all right, son," said the man. "Let me explain the reason for these tears." He squatted down and looked Wylder in the eye. "The name I was tracing belongs to a good friend of mine--a man who fought with me in Vietnam. We were together when a grenade landed right beside us. Glenn threw himself on it and took all the fury of the explosion. He died for me. Because of him, I'm alive today." The man gave Wylder a trembling smile and turned to go.
Wylder later told his parents what the man had said. "It must be a strange feeling to know that somebody died to save your life," Wylder said.
"I'm sure it is," said Dad. He nodded thoughtfully. "Actually, that happened to you too, Wylder. Someone did die to save you."
Wylder was stunned. "Someone died to save my life? Who?"
"Jesus," replied Dad. "All that He suffered on the cross was for you, Wylder. It was to pay for your sins and mine and those of everyone else in the world. He sacrificed His life to save us."
"Wow!" said Wylder. "I knew that, but it seems more real now after talking to that soldier." He looked down the length of the wall. "If I see him around here again, maybe I'll get a chance to tell him that someone died to save me too."
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Did you know that Jesus sacrificed His life to save you? By dying on the cross, Jesus took the punishment for your sin--the wrong things you've done--so you could have eternal life. That's how much He loves you. Trust Him as your Savior so you can have eternal life with Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
While we were still sinners, Christ died for us. (NKJV) (Romans 5:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus died for your sins
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:22-26
"I hate being cooped up with this dumb broken leg," Jack complained to his uncle. "All my friends are out having fun without me. It's not fair!"
"Well, I brought something that might help." Uncle George handed Jack a paper bag. Eagerly, Jack opened it. He found a jar containing a little green creature about three inches long. "It's a chameleon," said Uncle George. "Here--you can let him out of the jar. He'll enjoy running through your mother's houseplants on the windowsill."
Jack laughed. "Not if Mom sees him, he won't," he said as he carefully placed his new pet on the stem of a large plant. "Hey! He looks different, Uncle George! His color is changing."
Uncle George chuckled. "He must know he's in a new environment."
"Cool!" said Jack. "I knew they changed colors, but I never saw it happen before. My teacher says people sometimes think chameleons only change color to blend in with their surroundings, but they also change color based on what kind of mood they're in or on how they feel…like if they're too warm or too cold."
Uncle George nodded thoughtfully. "People can be like that too, can't they?"
"You mean like when someone's angry or embarrassed and their face turns red?" asked Jack.
Uncle George laughed. "Actually, I was thinking about changing colors in another way. As Christians, it can be easy to smile and praise God when everything is going our way, but when something bad happens, we sometimes change colors fast. You wouldn't always know by watching us that we believe in a loving Savior who cares about us."
Jack blushed. Ever since he'd broken his leg, he'd been pouting and feeling sorry for himself, and he hadn't been acting very nice toward his friends.
"Life is hard sometimes," Uncle George continued. "Jesus understands that--He experienced hard things too when He came to earth to save us. When bad things happen, we can share our feelings with Him. He'll remind us that He loves us, and the Holy Spirit will help us reflect that love in our attitude." Uncle George got up. "I'd better go. Enjoy your new pet. Watch and see what other colors he'll change to."
Jack smiled. "Thanks, Uncle George. And thanks for reminding me that I can change colors too."
-Matilda H. Nordtvedt
How About You?
Does your attitude consistently reflect your faith in Jesus? Or does it constantly change based on your mood or circumstances? When faced with a hard situation, you may feel sad or angry, and that's okay. But remember that Jesus understands what you're going through and promises to be with you. Share your feelings with Him, and let your attitude and the way you treat others show that you have faith in His promises.
Today's Key Verse:
Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives. (NLT) (Galatians 5:25)
Today's Key Thought:
Reflect Jesus in your attitude
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:1-3
"Did I really wear this?" asked Rylee as she and her mother were sorting through a
box of memories. Rylee held up a tiny knitted bonnet. "It's so small!"
Mom smiled. "It's amazing how much babies grow, isn't it?" She picked up a pair of baby shoes. "You wore these when you were just starting to walk." Mom rubbed the soft leather. "Before long, you were running everywhere and ready for a larger pair of shoes."
Rylee found a small scrapbook and opened it. "Look what you wrote here, Mom! It says, 'Rylee's drawings from ages three to six.'" She examined the pages. "I'm glad to see they got better each year! The more I grew, the better I drew." Rylee grinned at her mom. "I'm a poet and you didn't even know it!"
Mom laughed and turned to another page in the book. "Look. Here's a list of questions you asked when you were in kindergarten."
Rylee eagerly looked at the list. "Listen to these, Mom. 'Are clouds made out of cotton candy?' 'Is God everywhere all the time?' 'Why did Jesus have to die?'"
"All good questions," said Mom. "Do you know the answers now?"
"Sure," said Rylee. "I've learned a lot since kindergarten."
Mom nodded. "Good. You grew physically and mentally, and you grew spiritually too. That's how it should be."
Rylee thought for a moment. "I know I grew physically and mentally by eating food and going to school, but how did I grow spiritually? Just by going to church?"
"Church was a big part of it--the things you learned in Sunday school and from the pastor's sermons about Jesus and how much He loved you. Reading the Bible was also important, and so was prayer. God used all those things to help you grow in your relationship with Jesus and make you more like Him."
Rylee held up the scrapbook. "It's like these drawings. The more I grew, the better I drew. And the more I, uh…" She laughed. "Oops! Guess I'm not a poet after all. I can't think of a rhyme for how I grew spiritually."
Mom laughed too. "That's okay," she said. "You're still growing."
-Sandra L. Ardoin
How About You?
Do you wear the same clothes as you did a few years ago? They probably don't fit you now, do they? You're probably better at sports than you used to be, and you're able to solve harder problems too, right? That's because you're growing physically and mentally. Have you also grown spiritually? Do you know more about Jesus? As you get to know Him better, He will help you grow spiritually so others can see Him in your words and actions more and more.
Today's Key Verse:
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (NKJV) ( 2 Peter 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Grow spiritually
Bible Reading: John 6:5-14
"I know we're supposed to share the good news of Jesus with people wherever we are, like Pastor Bowers said today," Braden told his mom. "But it's too hard to do that in my class at school."
"Why do you say that?" asked Mom, scooping up some rice.
"Well, there are thirty kids in my class, and as far as I know, Flynn and I are the only Christians. What can just two of us do?" Braden broke off and sniffed appreciatively. "What's cooking?"
"Chicken curry," said Mom.
Braden frowned. "I don't remember having it before. Do I like it?"
"I think you'll like it," said Mom. "Aunt Alicia and Uncle Jeff are coming over for lunch. We're having chicken curry and rice." She put rice in a pan and added water.
Braden looked at the small grains that lay at the bottom of the pan. "That won't be enough rice to feed everybody!" he said. "Uncle Jeff eats lots, and I do too. I know I like rice." He was hungry and didn't want to run out of food.
"It will be plenty," Mom assured him. "You'll see."
When Mom called Braden to come in for lunch, he decided to check the rice. He lifted the lid of the pan and peeked inside. "Wow!" he said in surprise. "I knew rice swelled when it was cooked, but I didn't think it would make that much!" Braden eyed his mom suspiciously. "Did you add more rice after I went outside?"
Mom smiled. "Of course not. A small amount of rice can feed quite a few people."
"Yeah, I guess so!" said Braden. "It's like Jesus feeding all those people with five loaves of bread and two fish."
"Not quite!" Mom said, laughing. "But I think you and Flynn can be like rice."
"Like rice?" Braden repeated. "What do you mean?"
"A small amount of rice, after it's boiled, fills a whole pan," Mom explained. "Don't you think a couple of Christians, filled and boiling over with the Holy Spirit, can reach out to a whole classroom of kids who need to know Jesus loves them?"
"Oh," said Braden. He smiled. "Yeah, I guess they could."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you sometimes think there's nothing you can do to help more people know about Jesus? Do you feel like you're too small, too young, too shy, or too badly outnumbered to make a difference? Remember, if Jesus could use one boy's lunch of five loaves and two small fish to feed more than five thousand people, He can also use kids today to reach people with the good news of the gospel. Trust Him to help you reach out and share His love with others.
Today's Key Verse:
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (NKJV) (Philippians 4:13)
Today's Key Thought:
God can use you
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:29-32
Kaylee and Jackson were best friends. Every day of summer vacation, they were in Kaylee's backyard, where there was lots of space to play. They liked to pretend they were adventurers searching the woods for buried treasure and keeping records of their travels.
One afternoon they were in the backyard as usual, tracing leaves in the notebooks they called their "field journals." They sat in the grass, talking about their adventures.
Kaylee picked up Jackson's binoculars from the grass and looked through them. "There's a flock of birds flying toward us! What should we do, Jackson?" she exclaimed.
"Hey, those are my binoculars," Jackson said. "Can I please have them back? You didn't ask to play with them."
Kaylee frowned. "You weren't playing with them. I just wanted to try them for a minute. It's not a big deal."
"They were a gift, and I don't want them to break."
Kaylee dropped the binoculars. "Well, can I look at them now?"
Jackson shook his head and inspected his binoculars. "You just dropped them! That's not a nice way to treat other people's stuff, Kaylee."
"I wasn't going to break them!" Kaylee exclaimed. She glared at Jackson. "Maybe we should stop playing if you're so worried about me breaking your stuff."
"Yeah, I think we should." Jackson crossed his arms and walked toward his house next door.
Left alone in the grass, Kaylee started to replay her words in her head. What she had said to Jackson hadn't been very nice. She shouldn't have touched his binoculars without his permission. They didn't belong to her, and she didn't think she would like it if somebody did that with her things.
Kaylee walked to Jackson's backyard. He was sitting on the swing set looking sad. She sat down beside him. "Jackson, I'm sorry for messing with your binoculars. I should've asked your permission to use them and not argued when you said no. I wasn't speaking loving words like Jesus, but I want to do better now."
Jackson smiled at Kaylee. "Thank you. I accept your apology."
Kaylee nudged Jackson with her elbow. "Do you want to come over and keep playing? I promise I'll be nicer this time."
Jackson nodded. "You bet I do!"
-Reagan Motsinger
How About You?
How do you respond when someone says or does something that upsets you? Instead of saying something mean to them, God wants your words to be full of love and kindness so they can build others up. Jesus loves us and cares about our feelings, and He'll help you pay attention to what you say so your speech reflects His love, compassion, and forgiveness.
Today's Key Verse:
Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. (NLT) (Ephesians 4:29)
Today's Key Thought:
Speak kindly to others
Bible Reading: Romans 3:23-26; 8:19-25
"Caleb, could you hand me that wrench?" Dad was sprawled out under the kitchen sink, attempting to replace a seal that was broken. Caleb grabbed the wrench and handed it to his dad. "Okay, let's see if this new seal works," said Dad. "Turn on the dishwasher."
Caleb turned on the dishwasher, and they waited to see if it was going to leak. When it didn't, Caleb cheered. "Success!"
Dad nodded his approval. "Let's go ahead and change out the air conditioner filters too while we're at it."
Dad grabbed the tool bag, and Caleb grabbed the filters. He liked helping his dad fix things around the house.
"Hand me the screwdriver," Dad said.
"Can I do it?" Caleb asked.
Dad smiled and nodded. "Sure!"
Caleb took the screwdriver and removed both screws. After he helped Dad change out the filter, Caleb fastened the screws back in and they went on to the next filter.
By the end of the day, they had fixed the leak in the kitchen, changed out both air conditioner filters, and nailed down a couple new boards on the deck steps.
"Thanks for all your help today, Caleb," Dad said at dinner that night.
"I sure am glad I'm able to use the dishwasher again," Mom added.
Dad smiled. "Fixing all the things around the house today got me thinking about how God fixed our sin problem."
"What do you mean, Dad?" Caleb asked.
"Well, sin separates us from God, but God loves us so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, as a sacrifice for our sins. He made a way for us to be able to have a relationship with Him and have eternal life. We fix things around the house with tools, and God fixes our sin problem through Jesus. When we trust Him as our Savior, He gets rid of our sin and fixes our hearts, and then He invites us to help Him in the work He's doing to fix our broken world. One day He will make everything new, and we'll live with Him forever in a world free from sin and death."
"Wow, I can't wait for that!" Caleb grinned. "But at least for now we can enjoy living with a dishwasher that doesn't leak!"
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you accepted God's free gift of eternal life? If you haven't trusted Jesus as your Savior, you have a sin problem that needs to be fixed. We can't fix our sin problem, but God loves us so much that He sent His Son to pay the penalty for our sins. Trust Jesus to be your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then let Him use you to serve others and show them His love.
Today's Key Verse:
He himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins--and not only our sins but the sins of all the world. (NLT) (1 John 2:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus fixes our sin problem
Bible Reading: Mark 1:40-45; Hebrews 6:10
"Hey, Laura, wait up!" Laura turned at the door of her classroom at church and saw Anissa hurrying down the hall toward her. "You have nursery duty with me today, don't you?" asked Anissa. "Let's go."
Laura dropped her gaze. "Um, actually, Jessie is going to take my place."
Anissa's forehead creased in a frown. "Why? You and I always work in the nursery together. Why aren't you helping today?"
"Well, I, uh…" Laura squirmed uncomfortably. "I just don't feel like helping in the nursery anymore."
Anissa eyed her suspiciously. "Laura, I've never met anyone in my whole life who likes babies more than you do. Something's going on. What is it?"
Laura sighed. She knew it was no use trying to hide the real reason she had decided to quit working in the nursery. "Well, it's just…kids have so many contagious illnesses, and I don't want to come down with them myself. There's always somebody with a cold or something. The day after I was in the nursery last month, the Jamisons' baby came down with chicken pox! And now…well, there's the Wilsons' adopted baby who is HIV positive."
"So that's it!" Anissa was silent for a moment before she spoke again. "Laura, the nursery staff uses special safety precautions with little Peter. Mrs. Snyder can talk to you about it some more if you have any questions, but you don't have to be afraid to hold Peter or play with him. He needs our love and care just as much as any of the other babies. Maybe more." She paused, then added gently, "Remember the sermon we heard last week? What would have happened to the leper if Jesus hadn't been willing to help him?"
In her mind's eye, Laura could see the sick, hopeless man kneeling before Jesus, pleading for His help. And then she could see the Savior with His outstretched hand. There was love in His face and in His touch. Thinking about it, Laura made a decision.
She looked up and met Anissa's gaze with a smile. "I'll tell Jessie she can go to the worship service after all," she told her friend. "Meet you in the nursery in a few minutes!"
-Carolyn A. Penner
How About You?
Have you been avoiding someone God wants you to help? Maybe you've been too busy to get involved. Maybe you've been too proud. Or perhaps, like Laura, you're just plain scared. Jesus didn't hesitate to reach out to us when we were sick with sin and in need of His help, and He wants us to show His love to others. Let His love flow through you into the lives of those who need His touch today.
Today's Key Verse:
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear. (NKJV) (1 John 4:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Show God's love to everyone
Bible Reading: Luke 18:9-14
"Mom, how can you tell if someone's a Christian?" Ginny asked. "Because my friend Elle says she is, but she never prays before she eats, and I heard her tell Melanie a lie on the playground, and one time she asked if I wanted to come over on a Sunday morning, so I don't think she goes to church!" Ginny huffed out a breath.
Mom put down her whisk. "You and I can't really tell what's in someone's heart, Ginny. Only God can. Praying and going to church are important in helping us grow as Christians, but they don't make anyone a Christian, and Christians still do wrong things sometimes. Does that make sense?"
"Sort of…but we pray and go to church. Doesn't that show other people we're Christians?" Ginny asked.
Mom started to answer, then stopped. "Let me see if I can explain it a different way. Take these brownies I'm making. We can add things into our lives like praying…" Mom cracked in an egg. "Or going to church…" She poured in vanilla. "Or telling the truth…" She added the flour with a poof. "But without Jesus, we're like this." Mom walked out the door and put the brownie batter on the porch.
"Mom! You can't put the brownie batter outside. They'll never cook."
"Exactly, and without Jesus--no matter what ingredients we're adding--we can't ever become brownies, because we'll never make it to the oven! We just stay as uncooked batter." Mom grabbed the batter from off the porch and put it back on the counter. "The good things we do can't get rid of the sin in our hearts. We need Jesus to save us from sin. That's the only way we can become brownies."
"Oh," Ginny said, peeping over the counter. "So that's why God is the only one who can tell if we're Christians? Because He puts us in the oven?"
"Exactly! And though the love Jesus puts in our hearts helps us point others to Him, we can't judge whether people are Christians based on what they do or don't do. Only God knows each person's heart. And while praying and going to church are very important, they don't bake someone into a Christian." Mom laughed at her own pun and poured the brownie batter while Ginny rolled her eyes.
-Naomi Zylstra
How About You?
Do you wonder if the people around you are Christians? Praying and going to church are things Christians should do, but they don't make people Christians. God is the only one who truly knows what's in a person's heart. He knows who has trusted Jesus to save them from their sins and who has not. So rather than guessing who's saved and who's not, focus on helping everyone see and know the love and grace of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." (NKJV) (John 14:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus knows who's His
Bible Reading: Psalm 1; Ephesians 3:16-19
"Why do we have to go to church every Sunday?" Paige grumbled. Her glum face pressed against the car window, and her grouchy mood reflected the dismal, gray weather. "On a stormy day like this I'd rather be sleeping in."
"I like Sunday school! Don't you want to learn about God, Paige?" her younger brother Eric asked. A twinge of guilt pricked Paige's conscience, but she ignored her brother.
"Wow! Look at that tree!" Dad pointed to a large tree that lay uprooted along the roadside.
"That was a strong wind we had last night," Mom said. "It ripped that tree right out of the ground."
"It couldn't survive the wind because it had shallow roots," Dad added.
"Another good reason to stay home today," Paige muttered. "It's safer."
"But I want to go to Sunday school!" said Eric.
"Paige, did you know one of the psalms compares a person to a tree?" asked Dad. When Paige shook her head, Dad said, "Psalm 1 says a wise and righteous person is like a healthy, well-watered tree. Such people are like deeply rooted trees that are nourished by the soil and water. The truth of God's Word is a delight to them, and they're nourished by it day and night. A good tree produces fruit and doesn't wither. It prospers as God intended. I'm sure that kind of tree could withstand powerful winds."
"Life is full of storms," Mom mused. "Storms of temptations, storms of lies, grief, pain, and difficulties will blow against us. If our lives are rooted deeply in God's truth and the promise of eternal life we have in Jesus, we'll be able to stand firm against the storms. If not, we will fall, just like that tree."
"Is Paige a tree?" Eric asked.
Paige smiled a bit. "No, Eric, I'm not a tree. If I were, I would probably fall in the storms," she admitted. As Dad drove into the church parking lot, Paige said, "I'll get some watering today to help my roots go deeper in Jesus--and I'm sorry I was so grouchy."
Dad smiled. "I think I'm beginning to see some fruit already."
-Judith K. Boogaart
How About You?
Do you sometimes feel like skipping church? Do you neglect reading the Bible or memorizing verses? Your life needs to be watered with the truth of God's Word at church and in your own quiet time. Jesus wants to help you become deeply rooted in His love and promises, and He does that by helping you understand the truth of the Bible. Trust Him to help you grow deep roots so you can stand firm in the storms of life.
Today's Key Verse:
Have your roots planted deep in Christ. Grow in Him. Get your strength from Him. Let Him make you strong in the faith as you have been taught. (NLV) (Colossians 2:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Be rooted in Christ
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, 54-57; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
"Is Poppy wearing his shoes?" asked six-year-old Noelle. Mom patted Noelle's arm and went on talking. The funeral home was full of people talking quietly. The room was filled with the smell of flowers. Noelle stood beside her mother, who was greeting the people who had come to show their sympathy. Noelle's great-grandfather lay in the casket--a long box lined with satin--with his eyes closed and his hands folded. He looked like he was sleeping, but somehow he didn't quite look like the kind man Noelle knew. She felt strange and out of place.
Noelle felt a hand on her shoulder. "Come on, kiddo. I'll take you home now," said Dad.
Noelle tried to smile, but her lips trembled. "Does Poppy have his shoes on?" she asked again.
"No, sweetie, he doesn't need them anymore," Dad said.
"But, Daddy," Noelle protested, "how will he be able to walk around in heaven? He always put his shoes on first thing when he wanted to go for a walk."
Dad smiled but didn't answer her question right away. "Noelle, do you remember when you helped me plant carrots in the garden last spring?" he asked after a moment. Noelle nodded. "Each seed we planted had new life inside that couldn't grow until the seed died," said Dad. "The carrots grew, and the husk of the dead seed was left in the ground. That's a little like what has happened to Poppy. He was a Christian, and when he died, he left his body here with his shoes and clothes, just like the old seed husk. His spirit went to be with Jesus in heaven. And someday, something really special is going to happen. When Jesus comes again, God will raise Poppy's body and make it all new and perfect."
Noelle thought about it. "So Poppy doesn't need his cane in heaven either?"
Dad shook his head. "No, and he'll never need it again. When God raises Poppy from the dead, his body will be perfect, and he'll never get old or sick. Until then, Jesus will take good care of him."
Noelle felt better as she looked toward the casket where Poppy's body lay. "I'm glad he's with Jesus," she said simply.
-Carol J. Brookman
How About You?
Have you visited a funeral home when someone you love died? Did it give you a strange feeling? Did it make you sad? Death is hard to understand, but it helps to remember that death is not the end for those who know Jesus as their Savior. For a Christian, their soul goes to heaven to be with Jesus. And when He comes again, that person will be given a new and perfect body, and God will put an end to tears, sickness, and death for good.
Today's Key Verse:
He will swallow up death forever! The Sovereign Lord will wipe away all tears. (NLT) ( Isaiah 25:8 )
Today's Key Thought:
Christians will have new bodies
Bible Reading: Proverbs 1:1-7, 20-21; 4:7; Romans 11:33
"Whew! It's so hot!" Jaden wiped a hand across his forehead and turned to his little brother. "I hate picking green beans, don't you?"
"Yeah," said Malachi. "You almost have to stand on your head to find some of them." He waved his arms wildly around his head. "And when you have a pesky deer fly buzzing around you, it's even worse."
"Those deer flies love sweaty people," said Jaden.
"Hey, boys!" their grandfather, who was picking tomatoes, called to them. "Listen!"
The boys paused from their work and then suddenly cheered up. "It's the ice cream truck!" they squealed, running and jumping over rows of carrots and onions to reach Grandpa. "Can we get something?"
Grandpa pulled out his wallet and handed them some money. "Here you go, you poor, hungry workers. Get what you want, and get me a fudge bar."
When the boys came back to the garden, they all sat down under a nearby tree to enjoy their treats. "You know," Grandpa said as he unwrapped his fudge bar, "hearing the musical call of that ice cream truck reminds me of a verse I read in Proverbs this morning that says, 'Wisdom calls out in the street.'"
"Like a wisdom truck?" asked Malachi. "I don't think as many kids would come running when they heard that."
Grandpa chuckled. "Maybe not, but that verse is saying we should all go running after wisdom."
"How do we do that?" asked Jaden. "By going to school?"
"Wisdom is more than just knowledge," said Grandpa. "It involves humbling our hearts before God. Another verse in Proverbs says, 'The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.' Who do you think 'the Holy One' is?"
"I know," said Malachi. "Jesus!"
Grandpa nodded. "And where do we learn about Jesus?"
"The Bible!" the boys answered together.
"That's right," said Grandpa. "The Bible shows us our need for Jesus and tells us how we can be saved by trusting in Him. As we read it and get to know God better, He helps us grow in wisdom." Grandpa took a bite of his fudge bar. "And unlike this ice cream, wisdom won't ever melt away!"
-Sara L. Nelson
How About You?
Are you running after wisdom? It's better than ice cream on a hot day. It's more important than anything you study in school. Wisdom begins with understanding your need for Jesus and trusting Him as your Savior. (To learn more, click the "good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then keep learning more about Him from His Word, the Bible. As you grow in your knowledge of Jesus, you will grow in wisdom too.
Today's Key Verse:
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding. (CSB) (Proverbs 9:10)
Today's Key Thought:
God's Word gives wisdom
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:11-13; Hebrews 13:5
Heather opened Mom's bedroom door and whispered, "Mom, I need help packing for the beach."
"What time is it?" Mom opened one eye.
"It's seven thirty. We have lots to do before Dad comes."
Mom took a deep breath. "You're right."
After breakfast, Heather and her mom packed, gathered beach gear, and picked snacks for the drive. "Your dad will be here soon," Mom said. "Go get dressed."
Heather bit her lip. "Mom, I'm excited to go, but I don't want to leave you here alone."
"I'll be fine, Heather. Besides, I won't be alone--Jesus is always with me. And He's with you too."
"I know. But I'll miss you." Heather hugged Mom. "I liked it better when we went all together--you, Dad, and me."
"I know, honey. But this is your dad's family vacation week, and you'll have a great time with your cousins. We'll have our vacation in two weeks."
Heather and Dad were the last ones to arrive at the beach house. "It's official! Let the family vacation begin," Dad announced. Everyone cheered.
"I'll show you our room, Heather," said Megan. "All the boys are bunking in the loft."
Heather chuckled. "That should be interesting--and noisy!"
After unpacking, the girls headed to the beach. "I'm so glad we're all here," Megan said. "But it seems strange without your mom this year."
Heather stared at the sand. "My mom and I will take our vacation in two weeks."
"Two vacations--that's cool!" Megan said.
"Yeah, maybe. Now I have two birthday parties, two Christmas celebrations, and two homes. And as exciting as that might sound, I'd give anything for my parents not to be divorced." Heather paused. "And you know what's weird? When I'm with Mom or Dad having a great time, I sometimes feel guilty for having fun without the other one."
"I never thought about that," said Megan. "I'm sorry, Heather."
Heather sighed. "Divorce is really hard. I wish my parents were still together, but I'm trusting God to help me accept it. I memorized a Bible verse that says, 'I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.' It helps me remember that Jesus is with me, giving me His strength and peace, and that I can be content in any situation because of Him."
-Lynda Boucher
How About You?
Do you have circumstances in your life you don't understand? Situations beyond your control? Perhaps your parents divorced, someone close to you died, or you just feel all alone. Many things in life are hard to understand. Remember that Jesus, who died to save you and has given you eternal life, is with you in your difficult situation. Trust Him to help you through it and to give you His peace and contentment.
Today's Key Verse:
I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. (NIV) (Philippians 4:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is always with you
Bible Reading: John 10:27-30; 20:24-27
"I'm ready to go to the store, Mom," said Aurelia. "You said you needed some milk, right? Anything else?"
"I also need a loaf of bread and a package of cheese," Mom replied. "Oh, and I could use some cornstarch and some baking powder too. Can you remember all that?" She glanced at her daughter. "What are you doing?" asked Mom.
Aurelia lifted her head and grinned. She turned her hand to show her mother what she had done. "I wrote the list on my palm with this pen so I'll be sure to know what you need. I could have made a list on paper, but I might have lost that. I can't lose my hand."
Mom laughed. "That's a unique idea. Okay, I think that's everything--but hold on just a minute. I want to show you an interesting verse in the Bible." She walked over to her desk, picked up her Bible, and opened it to the book of Isaiah. "Read this," Mom said, pointing to a verse. "Read it out loud and tell me what you think of it."
Aurelia read the verse. "See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands." She looked up at her mom. "Hey, that's cool! God writes on His palms too."
Mom nodded. "Actually, He does more than just write. After all, that ink will wash off your palm--at least I certainly hope it will! But God told the people of Israel they were inscribed on His palms, and we can apply that to Christians too. Some translations use the word engraved. Engraving goes deeper than writing. It won't ever come off." Mom smiled at Aurelia. "Whenever I read that verse, I think of Jesus's hands. When He appeared to His disciples after He rose from the dead, He had scars on His palms where He had been nailed to the cross for our sins. Those scars show how much He loves us. I'm so thankful I'm engraved on God's palms."
Aurelia was silent for a moment. She looked down at the black writing on her hand. "Me too." She closed her hand over the writing. "It's a safe place to be, isn't it?"
-Lynn Stamm Rex
How About You?
Have you ever written on your palm to remember something? Your palm is a safe place to write things down so you won't forget them. God says His children are engraved on the palms of His hands. Is your name there? Jesus died for you so you could become a child of God. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) No matter what happens in your life, if you're in God's hands, you're in the safest place you can be.
Today's Key Verse:
See, I have inscribed you on the palms of My hands. (NKJV) (Isaiah 49:16)
Today's Key Thought:
You are safe in God's hands
Bible Reading: Psalm 32:1-5; 1 John 1:9
"Grandma, will you read The Princess and the Pea to me before I go to bed?" begged Alonya when she and her sister were staying over at Grandma's house.
"Oh, you know that story," said Thea. "The princess couldn't sleep because there was a pea under her mattress. Even though there were lots of mattresses on her bed, the pea still kept her awake, and she--"
"Don't tell it!" said Alonya. "I want to hear Grandma read it."
"I'll read it." Grandma took the book Alonya handed her and read the story. "Bedtime," she announced when she finished.
As she tucked the girls in, Grandma began feeling under the mattress.
"What are you doing, Grandma?" Alonya asked.
"I'm looking for peas, Princess!"
Thea giggled. "There aren't any there, Grandma."
"Good," said Grandma. "I hope there aren't any in your lives either." She smiled at the puzzled expression on the girls' faces. "The pea in the story reminds me of a time when I did something wrong," Grandma told them. "I took some money from my mother's purse. I thought it didn't matter because it wasn't very much. But my stealing was like the pea in the story. It was hidden, but it really bothered me. Sometimes I would lie awake at night thinking about it."
"Just like in The Princess and the Pea!" Alonya cried. "But you're not a princess, Grandma."
"In a way I am," said Grandma. "Our heavenly Father is the King of kings, and we're His children, so doesn't that make us princesses?"
"Wow! I never thought of that," said Alonya. "What happened next?"
"Finally, I couldn't stand trying to hide my sin any longer. I had to confess what I did and ask Jesus and my mother to forgive me."
"And did you live happily ever after?" Thea asked, grinning.
Grandma laughed. "I must admit I still sin sometimes, but when I think about what happened so long ago, it's a good reminder to always confess my sin. Then I have peace knowing Jesus has forgiven me because He took the punishment for all my sins when He died on the cross." Grandma gave each of the girls a kiss on the forehead and turned off the light. "He wants us to rest in His love and forgiveness--without any peas under our mattresses!"
-Lucinda J. Rollings
How About You?
Do you have any peas under your mattress? Have you done things that you feel guilty about? Don't let that guilt continue to prickle your conscience by trying to hide your sin. Jesus died for you so your sins could be forgiven and you could be free from guilt. Confess what you did wrong to Him, and He will forgive you. Then you can feel His peace.
Today's Key Verse:
I decided to confess my sins to the Lord. I stopped hiding my guilt and told you about my sins. And you forgave them all! (ERV)
(Psalm 32:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Confess sin and find God's peace
Bible Reading: Titus 2:7-8, 11-14
"Look at all the people!" exclaimed Austin. "This traffic is terrible!"
"Yes," said Dad. "Today's parade better be good, or I'll wish I'd stayed home." He inched forward with the traffic. "A lot of cars are turning here. Looks like a good idea to me. Maybe they know of a place to park around the corner." He made a right turn, following the car in front of him.
Immediately the traffic speeded up, but instead of finding a place to park, they found themselves on a long ramp leading to a freeway. "Oh no," Dad groaned. "I didn't see the sign for the freeway! Now we'll have to go a few miles before we can turn around." He scowled at the car ahead of him. "Thanks a lot, mister. You led me wrong!"
Mom laughed. "So it's his fault?"
"What about the car behind us?" asked Austin. "I noticed that they followed along too. Is that your fault, Dad?"
Dad grinned. "Nope. They should have watched where they were going!" Everybody laughed.
"Hey, Austin, Dad sounds like you," said Austin's brother David. "Last week you said it wasn't your fault you got in trouble at the church picnic because you were just doing what some older kids were doing. At the same time, you didn't think it was your fault when Gracie copied what you did."
"All right, all right. We've already dealt with that problem, so let's not keep dredging it up," said Mom.
Dad nodded. "There's a lesson for us here though. We tend to forget that God has given each of us the ability to make our own decisions, and He wants us to do that instead of blindly following the crowd."
"Yes," said Mom. "He's also given us the Holy Spirit, who guides us in how to live in a way that shows others we belong to Jesus and have His love in our hearts. He should be the example we follow in everything we do."
They were approaching an off ramp. "I don't know about that guy ahead of me," said Dad, "but I'm going to get off here and turn around." As they left the highway, Austin looked to see if the car behind them would follow. It did.
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you using the freedom God gave you to think for yourself instead of following the crowd? Jesus saved you from sin and gave you the Holy Spirit so you could live a life that points to Him and His love for us. Don't use the excuse "everybody's doing it." Instead, follow Jesus as your example. As you trust Him to help you live in a way that shows His goodness and love, you'll be pointing others to Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity. (NLT) (1 Timothy 4:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Follow Jesus's example
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 31:6; Isaiah 49:14-15; Matthew 6:9-13
"It's time to dismiss our class, but before we go, let's pray to God using the prayer Jesus taught us," said Mrs. Mac. "Last week we talked about the meaning of the words and phrases. Think about them as you say them today." The kids in the Sunday school class stood up and together recited the Lord's Prayer.
As the children were leaving, Mrs. Mac smiled warmly at Ben, a new boy in the class. "We're so glad you came today," she said. "We hope you'll come again."
Ben shrugged. "You all said that prayer just now--that one that begins, 'Our Father in heaven.' Well, I don't want to have anything to do with God if He's a father!"
"What makes you say that, Ben?" asked Mrs. Mac.
Ben scowled. "Because fathers don't treat people right, so I don't want one," he said angrily, but his eyes filled with tears. "You know what my father did? He left my mom and sister and me when I was five years old. Who wants another father like that?"
"Oh, Ben, I'm so sorry." Mrs. Mac was quiet for a few moments as she silently prayed for the right words to say. "Ben," she said at last, "we compare God to many things. But because God is perfect, no human example can ever describe Him properly." Ben still looked glum. "Ben, tell me about your mom," said Mrs. Mac.
Ben's face lit up as he thought about his mother. "Mom's great! She loves me and my sister, and she takes good care of us."
"Well, think of God as someone who loves you and cares about you even more than your mom does," said Mrs. Mac. "The Bible tells us that even if a mother forgets her child, God does not forget us. I'm so sorry your dad left you, but I want you to know that God will never leave His children."
"Really?" asked Ben, hope shining in his eyes.
"Yes, really. God loves you so much that Jesus became human and died for your sins so you could have a relationship with Him. He wants to be with you through the pain your dad caused you, and He won't ever abandon you. Jesus came to save you so you could be part of His family forever."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Has God blessed you with a loving mom and dad? Then thank Him, and remember that He is even more loving than your parents. Perhaps you've been abandoned by your father or mother. Be assured that God, who is the perfect Father, will never forget His children. He loves you so much He sent His Son, Jesus, to provide the way for you to become part of His family. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Can a mother forget her nursing child? Can she feel no love for the child she has borne? But even if that were possible, I [God] would not forget you! (NLT) (Isaiah 49:15 )
Today's Key Thought:
God is a perfect Father
Bible Reading: Philippians 1:6, 9-11; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24
"Why do we have to wear goggles and a mask?" asked Lily.
Lily's mom covered her mouth and nose and dropped goggles over her eyes. "When we pour lye into water, it causes a chemical reaction. The fumes aren't good to breathe."
Lily put on a mask, goggles, and gloves, then stirred the water as her mom slowly added the granulated lye. "Wow! That still burns my eyes."
"It takes something powerful to change oil into soap," Mom explained.
Lily put a thermometer into the water and lye solution. She put another thermometer into the olive oil they had warmed on the stove. "The lye water is 250 degrees. That's hot!" Lily checked the oil. "The oil is only 150 degrees."
"We'll mix them when both temperatures are around 110 degrees," said her mom.
They set the pitcher of lye water in a sink filled with cold water to cool it down. Then they waited. Thirty minutes later, both temperatures were just right. They poured the lye into the oil and stirred, then kept stirring, resting every fifteen minutes.
Finally, Mom said it was ready. "See how thick it is? When I make trails on top of the soap with my spoon, they stay there."
"It looks like vanilla pudding!"
Mom stirred a lavender-scented liquid into the mixture, then poured the soap into long, rectangular molds.
"When can we use it?" Lily asked.
"First it needs to harden in a dark, warm place for a day or two. Then we'll unmold it, cut it into bars, and let it dry for four weeks."
Lily's eyes widened. "That's forever!"
Mom laughed. "You need to be patient--like Jesus."
"What does Jesus have to do with making soap?" asked Lily.
"Think of it this way. We're the oil, and the Holy Spirit is the power that changes us. When we put our faith in Jesus, the Holy Spirit is poured into us. Over time, He purifies our hearts so we become more like Jesus and others can see we belong to Him. He teaches us to turn from sin and helps us grow in our faith. Jesus waits patiently for that to happen."
Lily smiled. "I want my heart to be as clean as our sweet-smelling soap!"
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Did you know that Jesus sends the Holy Spirit to live inside everyone who trusts Him as Lord and Savior? The Holy Spirit helps us become more like Jesus. He guides us in our thoughts, words, and actions so we can show His love to others. That doesn't mean we won't make mistakes! We will. It takes time to clean up hearts, but Jesus is patient. Trust Him to mold your heart to be more like His.
Today's Key Verse:
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. (NKJV) (Psalm 51:10)
Today's Key Thought:
The Holy Spirit purifies us
Bible Reading: Hebrews 1:1-3, 10-12
Olivia stretched out under her favorite eucalyptus tree and gazed in wonder at the koala above her. This was the best time of the day, when the skies darkened and some of the nocturnal koalas finally woke up to snack on the tree leaves. Olivia had named this koala Kiki. "I could watch you all night, Kiki--if you stayed awake for that long." Olivia giggled softly at her joke, aware that koalas slept for up to eighteen hours each day.
"God," Olivia prayed, "it seems like Kiki never changes. She sleeps all day and wakes up to chew on eucalyptus leaves, then falls asleep again so she can digest them. I wish my life could be that simple and unchanging."
Olivia's prayer was interrupted by her older brother Levi plopping down beside her. "Hi, sis. How are you holding up?"
Olivia sighed. "I just don't want everything to change. Why do Grandpa and Grandma have to leave Australia?" Olivia's lip trembled.
"They said God was calling them to America--their new mission field. We've been lucky to have them right down the road our entire lives. I'm sorry, Liv. I know change is hard."
"I hate change," Olivia muttered. "I wish my life could be like Kiki's sometimes."
Levi tugged on his sister's ponytail. "That would be a pretty boring life though, don't you think?" Olivia shrugged. "Remember this, Liv--everything around us may change, but God never does. God was here before He created the world, and He will remain when this world fades away."
"When we were little, we learned a verse that says God does not change," Olivia said. "'Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.' No matter what happens, Jesus stays with us, and He never changes."
"Some of us are still pretty little," Levi said with a grin. Olivia rolled her eyes.
Levi stood and brushed off his pants. "Ready to head inside? Grandma and Grandpa are coming to spend more time with us tomorrow."
"I guess." Olivia tilted her head to look at Kiki one more time. "Hey, Levi? Thanks for reminding me that God never changes. I'm going to try to remember that when I'm feeling sad about Grandma and Grandpa."
-Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Are you going through a time of change in your life? Sometimes change can be fun, such as getting a pet or meeting a new friend. Other times change can be very difficult, like when someone you love moves away. When hard changes come, remember that God is unchanging. The God who created the world will be the same throughout your entire life, and He promises to always be with you.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (NIV) (Hebrews 13:8)
Today's Key Thought:
God never changes
Bible Reading: Psalms 104:24-31; 145:14-21; 1 Peter 5:7
"How was the campout?" asked Cole's mom at breakfast the next morning.
"Great!" Cole said. "I think we ate three pounds of hot dogs."
Ethan laughed. "And two pounds of marshmallows."
"You sure had a beautiful night for sleeping under the stars," Mom said.
"Yeah," said Cole. "Made us think about God a lot."
"Thinking about the whole universe made me feel pretty small," said Ethan.
Mom smiled. "I know what you mean. It's good to think about how great God is, but it's also important to remember that He's interested in little things. Actually, the fact that He's interested in small things as well as big ones really emphasizes His greatness." She turned to Cole. "Have you shown Ethan the microscope you got for your birthday?"
"Yeah, he did. It's cool!" said Ethan. "Let's go use it, Cole."
"Okay," Cole replied, and the boys hurried off.
As Ethan peered through the lens a little later, he saw what appeared to be a giant horned monster. "Ew! What is that thing?"
"A flea." Cole laughed. "I got it off my dog."
Ethan took another look. "I didn't know fleas had all those horns and claws. Let's find some other things to look at." Soon the boys had examined an ant, a leaf stem,
a worm, and parts of a flower. "Cool!" Ethan said as he looked at a drop of water they had taken from a puddle.
"Wow!" exclaimed Cole when Ethan moved over so he could peer into the lens. The boys were amazed at all the tiny creatures they found swimming in the water. "There must be billions of these microscopic things all over the world, and we never see them," said Cole.
Mom spoke from the doorway. "Even though no one sees those little creatures, each one was created by God in a special way. And He sees and knows each one of us too, even when it seems like no one else does. He created each of us and loves us so much He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us. Even though we may feel small sometimes, we're very important to God, and He cares about every detail
of our lives."
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you realize that God cares about every little thing--even those too small for you to see? Do you realize He cares about you? He knows every detail of your life and has a purpose for you. God, the great Creator, loves you so much that He humbled Himself to be your Savior. You can bring any care or worry to Jesus, no matter how small it seems. Praise Him for His greatness and for the love and care He shows you each day.
Today's Key Verse:
My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord. Let every creature praise his holy name for ever and ever. (NIV) (Psalm 145:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Praise God for His care
Bible Reading: Psalms 19:1-6; 145:1-7; Ephesians 2:8-10
Cole and his friend Ethan lay in their sleeping bags, gazing up at the sky. "I love camping out in the backyard," said Cole. "I wonder how many stars are out there. Look at them all! There must be millions of them."
"Yeah, and those are just the ones close enough to see without a telescope," Ethan said. "My science teacher says there are over a hundred billion galaxies, and each galaxy has millions or even billions of stars! Just think how big the universe must be. Do you ever wonder how it all got there?"
Cole was silent for a moment, then replied, "I believe what the Bible says--that God created everything. God hung the world in space and placed each star just where He wanted it." Cole rolled onto his side and propped himself up on his elbow to face Ethan. "Have you ever thought much about God, Ethan?"
Ethan stared into the vast darkness overhead. "Sometimes I do. I guess there must be a God, but I don't really understand why He made all those galaxies and stuff that nobody can see anyway."
Cole grinned. "That reminds me of what I said to my mom when I cleaned my room yesterday. I told her I didn't see why I had to clean under my bed, since nobody looks under there anyway. She said she had her reasons even if I didn't understand them. So she said to clean it for her."
Ethan laughed. "That sounds like my mom too. I guess all mothers are like that."
Cole nodded. "Mom has her reasons for wanting me to clean under the bed, and I'm sure God has His reasons for all that He created. I know the Bible says everything--what we see and what we can't--was made by God and for God, so it sounds to me like He created everything for Himself, not just for us. But all those billions of stars help us realize how great and awesome God really is."
"Yeah," replied Ethan. "Makes me feel kind of small."
"I know," said Cole. "But the Bible says we're His greatest creation of all. He made us and Jesus came to save us for His glory."
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you ever think about the vastness of the universe? Does it make you think of the greatness of God? You can never fully comprehend His greatness or the reasons for all the things He has done, but know that you are important to Him. Out of all the amazing things He created, the Bible says we are His masterpiece, created for His glory in Jesus. Enjoy the glorious splendor of God's majesty as you rest in His great love for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Great is the Lord and most worthy of praise; his greatness no one can fathom. (NIV) (Psalm 145:3)
Today's Key Thought:
God is great and awesome
Bible Reading: Isaiah 51:6-8, 11; 1 Peter 1:23-25
"I'm glad you came to help me today, Danielle," Aunt Meg said as the two of them explored the cluttered attic. They laughed at their discoveries as they sorted through boxes, getting ready for a garage sale. Aunt Meg picked up a box. "I think my doll Rosie should be around here somewhere."
"Is this it?" Danielle asked.
"It sure is--my little Rosie! I played with her all the time when I was your age." Aunt Meg took the doll and settled its soft body into the crook of her arm like a real baby. Its round face smiled up at her.
"These dolls were very popular when I was a kid," said Aunt Meg. "They came with birth certificates and adoption papers, and people were crazy about them. Rosie was a birthday gift from my parents." She looked at the doll thoughtfully. "I still remember a message our pastor gave the Christmas before I got Rosie. People stood in line for hours and paid big money for these dolls. Pastor Burton told us they would eventually lose their appeal and popularity. He reminded us that material possessions can never bring fulfillment and lasting joy. Only Jesus can satisfy our hearts--and the gift He offers of eternal life with Him is free." She handed the doll back to Danielle. "Pastor Burns was right. I don't get excited about these dolls anymore--or about a lot of other things that were popular once. Look at all the stuff in this attic." She smiled. "But I still get excited when I think about Jesus and all He's done for me. He fills me with joy every day!"
Danielle looked at the doll. "Rosie is nice, but I can't believe you got that excited over something like this."
Aunt Meg's eyes twinkled. "Oh, I think I know someone who has a pretty large doll collection of her own."
Danielle giggled. "Yeah, I guess I did always want to have whatever dolls were popular with my friends when I was younger. Most of them aren't so popular anymore though. Maybe I'll sell some of them at our garage sale."
"Popular items change continually," said Aunt Meg. "But Jesus is always the same. He's a gift we can always get excited about!"
-A. J. Schut
How About You?
Do you have things that have lost their appeal? Are there new things that are popular now you wish you could get? Material things only satisfy for a brief time. You soon grow tired of them, or they become outdated. But the gift of eternal life Jesus offers us is absolutely free, and He brings joy that lasts forever! Accept His gift today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NKJV) (Romans 6:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Only Jesus brings lasting joy
Bible Reading: Acts 2:40-42, 46-47; Hebrews 10:24-25
"Good morning, Hendrick," Ivan said to his lamb as he entered the fenced enclosure. "C'mon. I'll brush your nice wooly coat. You're going to win that blue ribbon at the fair in a couple of weeks." Ivan got busy and groomed Hendrick until his mother called him for lunch.
"Hendrick is going to win that blue ribbon, Mom. I just know it," Ivan said as he bit into his sandwich.
Mom smiled. "He just might," she replied. "By the way, have you talked to Sebastian to see if he'll be going to church with us tomorrow?"
Ivan shook his head. "No, but he got saved last week, so it doesn't matter." He went out the door. "I'm going to see what Hendrick's up to."
When Ivan reached the enclosure, he saw that the gate had been left open and the lamb was gone. "Mom!" he called as he ran to the house. "Hendrick got out! Will you help me find him?" Mom came quickly, and together they searched for Ivan's lamb.
"Hendrick! I was worried sick!" Ivan said when they found him in a nearby field--right in the middle of thorny vines with burrs that got stuck in his coat. "I had you all cleaned and brushed. Now look at you!"
Mom stood and eyed the lamb. "Just because Hendrick is clean and brushed doesn't mean your work with him is done. He's still growing and learning." Mom looked at Ivan. "He reminds me of your friend Sebastian."
"Sebastian?" Ivan was puzzled. "What do you mean? I don't think he's going to go out in a field and get burrs in his hair."
"Hendrick needs care and guidance even after he's been brushed and fed," Mom explained. "And Sebastian--even after he's saved--needs care and guidance too. He needs to be around people who can remind him of God's love and forgiveness and guide him in his Christian life. Jesus doesn't leave us on our own after He washes our sins away and makes us new--He continues to care for us and teach us throughout our lives. One way He does that is through other Christians."
Ivan nodded slowly. "I'll bike over to Sebastian's and ask him to go to church with us--as soon as I get this lamb back in his pen!"
-Dolores A. Lemieux
How About You?
Do you encourage kids who are already saved to attend church? Do you invite them to join you at Bible club? Or do you think new Christians can take care of themselves? All Christians need help and guidance from one another so we can learn more about Jesus and grow in our relationship with Him. You can help those new to faith feel welcome at church so they can receive the care and guidance they need.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together…but encouraging one another. (NIV) ( Hebrews 10:24-25)
Today's Key Thought:
Help new Christians
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:29–5:2
"I can't see anything, Grandpa," said Sophie as she peered through her binoculars into the woods. "What am I looking for again?"
"You're trying to find a superb lyrebird, honey," said Grandpa. "I'm sure there are a few that live in this part of the woods. Maybe we should sit on this log and listen for a while. We might hear them before we see them."
Sophie and Grandpa sat quietly together, listening for any distinct lyrebird sounds. Sophie was spending the summer at her grandparents' home in Australia. She loved learning about all the unique animals that lived nearby.
They heard a few dogs barking in the distance and a squirrel chattering up in a tree. "Well," said Sophie after a few minutes, "I don't think we're going to have any luck today, Grandpa."
Just then, Grandpa gave Sophie a nudge and pointed to some brush in the distance. A medium-sized brown bird with long, flowing tail feathers was foraging for insects on the ground.
"Wow," whispered Sophie as she got a closer look through her binoculars. "I've never seen a bird like that. The tail is so pretty!" The lyrebird lifted its head and broke out in a strange song that sounded like a mixture of whistles and a dog barking. Sophie said, "That's the weirdest bird song I've ever heard, Grandpa. It sounds just like those dogs barking."
"The lyrebird is a master of mimicry," explained Grandpa. "It can imitate all kinds of sounds, like other birds, dogs barking, car engines, and even chainsaws! When they sense danger, the birds give a very loud alarm shriek."
"That's pretty cool!" said Sophie.
"We can be like lyrebirds too sometimes," said Grandpa. "We tend to imitate the words and actions of the people around us, which can get us into trouble if we're hanging around the wrong friends or following popular people on social media who say or do things that are ungodly. The Bible says we should be imitators of God instead. Jesus loves us so much He died to save us, and He helps us imitate that same kind of love in our lives. He calls us to be kind, compassionate, and forgiving just like He is."
-Kendra Angle
How About You?
Who are you imitating in your life? Are you showing others the love and kindness of Jesus? Or are you influenced more by the people around you or those you follow online? Who we follow or hang out with affects how we speak and act. As children of God, we need to imitate Him. Trust Him to help you speak and act in ways that show others the love of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. (NKJV) (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Today's Key Thought:
Imitate Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:27-32
"Jason, are you sure we're on the right road?" asked Mom, sounding worried. The family was driving through rugged mountains with tall trees on each side. The road was becoming narrower, and they hadn't seen any cars or houses for quite a while.
"Well, I was sure this was the right road," Dad answered. "But now I'm beginning to wonder. I thought we would be at the campsite by now. Let's look at the map on my phone." While Dad stopped the car, Mom pulled up the map. Then they both studied the screen. "Here's the town where we bought gas," Dad said, pointing to a spot on the map. "And here's where we want to go." He moved his fingers across the screen to zoom in. "Oh no!" he exclaimed. "I thought the campground was on this road, but there's a turnoff here. We'll have to go back."
In the back seat, Jonathan and Stella looked at each other and groaned. "We're tired!" complained Jonathan. "We've been driving so long already!"
"Yeah," said Stella. "This vacation isn't starting out very well!"
"Oh, come on, now," said Mom. "We've had a good time today, and it won't take very long to go back."
When they finally reached the campground, Dad and the kids set up the tent while Mom made sandwiches. How good they tasted! When they were finished, Dad took out his phone. "There's one more thing we need to do before we go to sleep," he said, hitting a small Bible icon on the screen. "I made a big mistake today when I didn't look at the map soon enough. When I did check it, we got back on track. And much like a map, the Bible is our guide through life. It shows us our need for Jesus and how we can have a relationship with Him, and it helps us know more about Him and how He wants us to live as God's children. If we neglect it, we may find ourselves going in the wrong direction in our lives--and that's a much bigger mistake. Let's read the Bible together now and ask God to use it to guide us in our walk with Jesus."
-Beverly Kenniston
How About You?
Are you following God's directions? You need His guidance every day as you go through life. One of the ways He gives it to you is through His Word, the Bible--but if you don't read it, you won't know what it says. Make it a habit to read at least a few verses every day, and pay attention when you're reading and studying it with other Christians at home or church. Then think about what it says and trust God to help you follow His directions.
Today's Key Verse:
Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. (NLT) (Psalm 119:105)
Today's Key Thought:
Read and follow God's Word
Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:14-15
"Get a move on, Josh," said Luke as he scraped the dishes and piled them on the counter. "You're being lazy. Do your share of the work!"
Josh stopped daydreaming and slowly filled the dishwasher. "I'm doing my share," he muttered.
"You are not!" Luke replied angrily.
"Boys, boys!" Mom said as she entered the kitchen. "I'm tired of the constant bickering going on between you two. You're brothers, and you should love each other."
"Love? Who could love him?" Luke asked. "Every time we do anything, Josh drags his feet, so I end up doing most of the work."
"That's not true!" Josh shot back. "Mom, he's always picking on me!"
"That's it!" said Mom. "You boys apparently need to work off some extra steam. When the dishwasher is loaded, we're all going out to the berry patch to pull crabgrass."
"Aw, Mom!" The boys tried to protest, but soon they all were busy in the garden. By the time they were done, the boys were hot, dusty, and too tired to fight. They sat down while Mom went in and got a pitcher of cool lemonade and some snacks.
"You know, boys," Mom said as she poured them lemonade, "this makes me think of a verse in the Bible that talks about a root of bitterness growing and causing trouble in our relationships. I can see that bitterness is springing up between you two. It could destroy your friendship just like this crabgrass could destroy our strawberry patch. We had to dig out the crabgrass to protect the strawberries. Now let's work on digging the bitterness out of your relationship so you can be friends again. Okay?"
The boys looked at each other and nodded.
"All right," said Mom. "We'll start by asking God to help us. Let's pray that He will guide our conversation and bring to light anything that was said or done that is causing bitterness to grow in your hearts--and that He would help you forgive each other and love each other not just as brothers in this family, but brothers in Christ."
Mom bowed her head to pray, and the boys did the same. Then, as they sipped lemonade, they talked about their differences and how to resolve them.
-Phyllis M. Robinson
How About You?
Are you feeling bitter toward someone? Do you often fight with a brother or sister, a friend, or a classmate? Don't let that root of bitterness grow in your heart. Go to that person and discuss the problem. If you did something to hurt them, tell them you're sorry, and be willing to forgive them for anything they did. Trust God to help you pull bitterness out by the roots and replace it with His love.
Today's Key Verse:
Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many. (NLT) (Hebrews 12:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't be bitter
Bible Reading: Matthew 10:29-31; Hebrews 4:14-16
It was raining, and Dante was bored. "Grandpa, this weather ruined our fishing," he complained. "What can I do now?"
Grandpa settled back in his rocker. "Know any good riddles?" he asked.
Dante thought for a minute. "What's black and white and red all over?"
Grandpa snapped his fingers. "A newspaper," he said.
"Nope." Dante grinned. "An embarrassed zebra!" Grandpa laughed. "I know another one," said Dante. "What happens to a blue shoe that is thrown into the Red Sea?"
"Well, I believe blue and red mixed together make purple," said Grandpa. "So I guess the shoe turns purple?"
Dante shook his head. "No, it gets wet." They both laughed, and then Dante asked, "Do you know any riddles, Grandpa?"
"Well, let's see." Grandpa reached into his pocket, pulled out his hand, and held out a closed fist. "In my hand there is something no one on earth has ever seen," he said. "The farmer who grew it, the grocer who sold it, your grandma who bought it--none of them has seen it. I have it in my hand, but I've never seen it either."
"That can't be right!" said Dante. "Let me see it." Grandpa opened his hand. "It's a peanut!" exclaimed Dante. "Lots of people have seen that."
"Lots of people have seen this peanut shell, but who's ever seen the peanut inside the shell?" asked Grandpa. Dante hadn't thought of that. "There is one Person who knows exactly what this peanut looks like though," Grandpa said. "Do you know who that is, Dante?"
"God!" Dante answered. "He knows everything, doesn't He?"
Grandpa nodded. "He sure does. He even knows what you're feeling and thinking. God loves you, and His love is very special because He knows you so well. Jesus understands everything you go through because He experienced the same things we do when He became human to save us. He always knows exactly what you need."
"He knows I needed a riddle to laugh about on a rainy day like this," said Dante. He eyed the peanut. "And He knows I'm hungry."
Grandpa laughed and tossed him the peanut. "I guess it's time to crack that shell open and finally see the peanut inside!"
-Marilyn J. Senterfitt
How About You?
Do you ever feel alone or disappointed? Like no one understands you? Jesus does. He knows you better than anyone else does. He even knows how many hairs are on your head. He shares in your happy times, and He also feels your pain and your loneliness. He cares when you hurt. You can always count on Him to be there for you.
Today's Key Verse:
The very hairs of your head are all numbered. (NKJV)
(Matthew 10:30)
Today's Key Thought:
God knows everything about you
Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 6:17-19; 1 John 2:15-17
Tegan paused the video on her phone and held the screen up as she gazed into the mirror. She had worked a long time trying to get her hair to look like the young woman's in the online tutorial. Tegan turned toward her sister. "Do I look like her?"
Sienna shrugged. "A little, maybe. Come on--we've got to go. Mom and Dad are waiting." The girls hurried out to the car.
On the way to the lake, Tegan mentioned the girl in the tutorial again. "She's so beautiful," she said, staring at her phone. "And she has tons of followers too. Lots of people watch her videos on hair and makeup and buy her stuff. She must be rich!" Tegan sighed. "I wish I could be like her. She probably has a really exciting life."
"Maybe she does, but remember that fame and fortune aren't all they're cracked up to be, Tegan," said Mom. "People who are rich and famous have problems just like the rest of us, and some of them have really difficult lives."
Soon they were enjoying a picnic lunch at the lakeshore. "The lake is so lovely," Mom said as they munched on chicken sandwiches. "Look how blue it is."
"The water isn't really blue though," said Dad. "The lake is reflecting the blue sky." After eating, they did some hiking. "It looks like rain," Dad said when he noticed the gathering clouds. "We'd better go."
As they got in the car, Mom pointed toward the water. "Look at the lake now."
"Wow! It isn't very pretty anymore," said Tegan. "It sure isn't blue now--it's gray. What made it change so much?"
"It still reflects the sky, but now the sky is cloudy," Dad explained.
"That reminds me of what we were talking about in the car," Mom said. "It's not a bad thing to be rich or famous, but if that's our main purpose in life and we idolize people who have money or fame, our lives are going to look cloudy and gray. But if we look to Jesus for our worth and purpose, our lives will reflect His beauty. He died on the cross and rose again to save us--rich and poor alike. We all need the reflection of His love and peace in our lives."
-Katherine R. Adams
How About You?
Is your life reflecting the beauty of Jesus? You may think that having lots of money or followers will give you the life you want, but the Bible says that knowing Jesus is the only way to have a rich, satisfying life. If you don't yet know Him as your Savior, trust in Him today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then let the beauty of His love, joy, and peace be reflected in your life.
Today's Key Verse:
I [Jesus] have come so that they may have life and have it in abundance. (CSB) (John 10:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Reflect Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 5:1-5; James 1:2-4, 12
"My new school is horrible!" Clara said as she came into the living room. "The kids all have their own groups of friends and ignore me. My teacher's always in a bad mood and gives ridiculous assignments. I miss my old friends. Why did we have to move here?" She collapsed wearily onto the sofa. Picking up a book that was lying on the coffee table, Clara absentmindedly flipped through the pages. Her dad glanced up, about to say something, when Clara held up the book and pointed to a picture. "Look at this," she said. "It's an oyster. They're not very pretty, are they? But they can make such beautiful pearls."
Dad looked more closely at the picture. "That's true. Do you know how oysters make pearls?"
"Sure. We studied that in school," said Clara. "The oysters have a strong, hard shell outside, but they're soft and fleshy on the inside. Sometimes a grain of sand or something like that gets inside the oyster's shell. The sand irritates the inner membrane and causes the oyster discomfort."
"Right," said Dad, "What happens next?"
"The oyster oozes a liquid onto the grain of sand to ease the irritation," said Clara. "It keeps doing that, layer after layer. Eventually the liquid hardens into a smooth pearl."
"A small irritation that created pain and discomfort eventually produced a beautiful object of great value," observed Dad. "We can have the same thing happen in our lives."
Clara looked confused. "I'd love to make pearls, Dad, but I'm no oyster!"
Dad chuckled. "No, but since we live in a broken world, we have suffering, pain, and other problems creep into our lives--like irritating grains of sand. Yet God can use these hurts and irritations to remind us that Jesus is with us in our suffering and that He promises to restore our broken world one day and make everything new. As He uses the hard things we face in life to help us know Jesus better, He makes us able to produce pearls of another kind."
"What kind of pearls?" asked Clara curiously.
"Pearls of patience, endurance, trust, faith, and hope. They are far more precious than an oyster's pearls, and they make us shine with the beauty of Jesus."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
How do you react to difficulties? Do you get angry and bitter or grumble and complain? Or do you depend on God for help in using your struggles and problems to produce pearls in your life? Jesus promises to be with us in every difficulty we face, and He can use those struggles to help us know Him better and make us more like Him. When you face trials in life, trust Him to help you use those situations to strengthen your faith in Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Count it all joy when you fall into various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces patience. (NKJV) (James 1:2-3)
Today's Key Thought:
Make pearls out of difficulties
Bible Reading: Psalms 40:1-5; 139:17-18
One hot afternoon, Lorelei and Brandon's dad took them to the beach. After a refreshing swim, they stretched out on a blanket under an umbrella. Dad read a book, and Brandon fiddled with a waterproof watch he'd brought along. Lorelei sat up and took a handful of sand. She brushed most of it away and then tried to separate the grains in the small amount that was left.
"What are you doing?" asked Brandon.
"My teacher at church said our lesson next week is going to include something about sand. She asked if we ever tried counting the grains, so I thought I'd try." She went on counting--or trying to count--the tiny grains of sand in her hand.
"That's impossible!" Brandon said after watching her for a moment. He rolled his eyes, picked up his raft, and headed for the water again.
Lorelei sat on the blanket, staring at the sand, and Dad looked up from his book. "How's the counting coming? Do you think you'll be able to finish the whole beach this afternoon?"
Lorelei sprinkled the sand she held over her feet. "I give up! I can't even count one handful."
"No," said Dad. "This is a big beach, and the sand is deep too. And this is only one of the many beaches in the world." He laughed. "Isn't it wonderful that we can't count the grains of sand?"
Lorelei looked puzzled. "Why is that wonderful?"
Dad took out his phone and pulled up a Bible verse. "Psalm 139:18 says that God's thoughts about us are 'more in number than the sand.' That means more than all the grains of sand in the whole world," said Dad. "Just think of that!" He scooped up a handful of sand and let it run through his fingers. "Long before we were ever born, He thought about us and came up with the perfect plan to save us from sin through His Son, Jesus. And He continues to think about us now and cares about every detail of our lives. God's thoughts and love for us are endless."
Lorelei filled her bucket to the top with sand. Then she tipped it over and watched the millions and zillions of grains pour out. "Wow!" she said. "That's a lot of thoughts."
-Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Do you ever feel like no one cares about you? The great, awesome, wonderful God who created the whole universe does. He came up with a plan to save you through Jesus so you could be His child forever. When you wonder if you matter, think about how much sand there is. Then thank God that you're so special to Him that His thoughts for you are more than all the sand in the whole world.
Today's Key Verse:
Your thoughts toward us…are more than can be numbered. (NKJV) (Psalm 40:5)
Today's Key Thought:
God thinks about you
Bible Reading: Psalm 100
"How was Sunday school today?" asked Mom as the family ate lunch together after church.
"Great," said Lydia. "Mrs. Simons always makes the stories interesting."
"Did you learn any new songs today?" asked Dad.
"Not today," Ian answered. Then he chuckled and looked across the table at Lydia. "Did you hear Ronan singing?"
"Did I!" Lydia giggled. "How could anyone not hear him?"
"He sings so loud, and if he hit one correct note, it would be a miracle," said Ian. "I can hardly stand to sit by him during song time."
After lunch, everyone went to sit out on the deck. Ian and Lydia played a game at the picnic table. When some sparrows settled on the nearby shrubs, Lydia looked up and watched them. "Sparrows aren't the prettiest birds, but I love to hear them tweet and twitter," she said.
Mom pointed. "There's a hummingbird drinking from that red flower. And see the magpies at the back of the yard? They're pretty, but they're not good singers."
"What bird song do you think God loves the best?" asked Dad.
"I don't know. He probably loves them all the same," said Lydia. "He created them all."
Dad nodded. "What about people? Does God love everybody's songs of praise?"
"Sure," said Ian. "God loves us all the same--and He loves to hear us sing even more than the birds." Ian looked at his dad. "I think I know what you're getting at. You're thinking of Ronan, aren't you?" Seeing his father smile, Ian said, "I guess God loves everyone's singing--even if they can't carry a tune. Right, Dad?"
"Exactly," said Dad. "When we sing from our hearts and praise God for saving us and making us His children, I'm sure He loves to hear us."
Lydia sighed. "Ronan may not be the best singer, but he sings from his heart and doesn't care what anyone else thinks."
Ian nodded. "Ronan, I criticize you no more," he said dramatically.
Lydia looked at the sparrows again. "His eye is on the sparrow," she sang softly, "and I know He watches me."
-Vera M. Hutchcroft
How About You?
When you sing songs of worship, do you sing from your heart? Do you think about the words you sing and offer them to God out of gratitude for all He's done for you? God loves genuine songs of praise. Perhaps He gave you a beautiful voice. If so, use it for His glory by singing to Him. But even if you don't have a gifted singing voice, you can sing anyway! He loves to hear His children's songs of praise.
Today's Key Verse:
Sing to God, you kingdoms of the earth; oh, sing praises to the Lord. (NKJV) (Psalm 68:32)
Today's Key Thought:
God loves to hear songs of praise
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1; Isaiah 40:31; Galatians 6:9
Every day after work, Dad would walk to Spencer's school and together they'd walk home, past the city baseball park. On Fridays the ballpark was bursting with noise from a city baseball game. Spencer wanted to see what was happening, but a tall wooden fence blocked the view.
"Can we go in, Dad?" Spencer asked one day.
"The game's almost over now," said Dad. "Let's wait until we can see a whole game."
Then Spencer noticed something. "I can see second base through this knothole." From another knothole, he could see third base. "But now I can't see second base anymore. No fair!"
Then Dad said, "There's a bigger knothole up ahead. Go check it out."
Spencer ran to it. "Dad! The batter just made it to second base!"
"Can you see home plate?"
"No," Spencer said, disappointed. "I can still only see part of the action."
"Knotholes are like that," Dad said. "When I was a kid, your grandpa used to tell me that life is like a knothole."
Spencer made a face. "What does that mean?"
"It means we only see what's right in front of us, even though we may wish we could see more--like during the pandemic when my company shut down. I was worried, but I didn't need to be because God could see what lay ahead."
"So, it's like God sees the ballgame from inside the ballpark," said Spencer.
"Yes, but even better than that, because He already knows how it will end. God had a better job waiting for me, but more importantly, He promises to make everything better one day. Jesus died and rose again so we could live with Him forever in a world free of sin and death." As they continued walking, Dad said, "Hey, next Friday I get off work early. I'll buy tickets and we can actually go to the game."
Waiting a whole week was hard for Spencer. But when the day came, it was just like Dad promised. They saw the game from beginning to end from good seats as they feasted on hot dogs.
"Was it worth the wait?" Dad asked.
"Totally. Tonight we had God's view, sort of."
Dad laughed. "That's right. And one day we'll have the best seats in heaven's ballpark. No waiting, no charge."
Spencer grinned. "And no knotholes!"
-Teresa Ambord
How About You?
Does not knowing what the future holds ever make you feel worried or anxious? We all feel that way sometimes, but God alone knows the future. Our job is to trust Him. Jesus promises to help us through any difficulties we face and to one day make everything right. His plans for us are good. Give your worries to Him as you wait for the wonderful future He has promised.
Today's Key Verse:
Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. (NIV) (Psalm 27:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Wait on the Lord
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 4:1-2; 2 Timothy 2:23-25
Gracie sat down on the couch next to her mother. They both laughed as three-year-old Maggie chased their new kitten around the living room. "Come here, Kitty! Come here!" Maggie yelled, holding out a treat, but the kitten darted away.
Gracie sighed. "Mom, I don't know what to do about Andrea. She always complains about her grades, but she hardly ever does homework. I finally told her to stop whining and spend more time studying. She got upset, and now she won't talk to me."
"I'm not surprised," said Mom.
"But why?" asked Gracie. "I'm just trying to help!"
"Yes, but if you said it to her the way you did just now, it probably didn't sound like help. She may have felt it was an attack."
Just then Maggie joined them with the unaccepted cat treat still in her hand, crying in frustration. "Gracie, why don't you show Maggie how to give the treat to the kitten?" said Mom.
"Okay." Gracie took her little sister by the hand and showed her how to approach the kitten in a gentle, non-threatening way. "Move slow and speak softly," Gracie said. Crouching low, she quietly called the kitten and showed him the treat. He slowly came closer and finally felt comfortable enough to take it.
Maggie sat on the floor and petted the kitten while Gracie returned to the couch.
"Good job," said Mom. "You needed to approach the kitten gently. And that reminds me of your problem with Andrea. Can you think of a way you could do that with her?"
Gracie thought for a moment as she watched the kitten. "Well, I could ask her to forgive me for the way I talked to her," she said. "And, um…I can offer to help her with homework and help her study before our tests."
"I think that's a great idea," Mom said. "The Bible tells us a soft answer calms anger. Remember that since you trust in Jesus, you can always respond to others with love and gentleness because you have the Holy Spirit inside you. Trust Him to help you use a gentle approach with Andrea. When she sees how much her friendship means to you, I think your problem will be solved."
-Sarah Vile
How About You?
How do you respond to people when they say or do something you don't like? Harsh words often stir up anger and lead to arguments and hurt feelings, but a gentle approach can smooth things over and help prevent a fight. When you feel like snapping at someone, trust God to help you be considerate of their feelings and respond in a patient, gentle way instead.
Today's Key Verse:
A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. (NKJV) (Proverbs 15:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Say things gently
Bible Reading: Matthew 7:21-27; Romans 10:9-10
"Look, there's a ladybird!" cried Olive.
Jocelyn dropped her doll on the grass and looked up at the sky. "Where? I don't see any birds--or a lady either! Besides Mom, I mean." She smiled at her mother.
Olive laughed. "A ladybird isn't a bird--or a lady." She pointed to a small red and black creature crawling its way up the stem of a plant. "That's a ladybird."
Jocelyn stared at it. "That's a bug!" She placed her hands on her hips. "Why is it called a ladybird when it's not a bird at all? That doesn't make any sense!" She shook her head and picked up her doll again.
"Most people around here call it a ladybug," said Mom. "That name fits it better, doesn't it?"
"Yeah, I guess," said Olive. "My teacher calls it a ladybird, but she moved here from England, and sometimes they have different names for things there."
"I can think of another creature with a name that doesn't really fit," said Mom. "What did Dad show you last night?"
"Fireflies!" said Olive. "He said they aren't flies at all. They're beetles."
"That's right," said Mom. "Sometimes people use names for themselves that don't match what they really are either. For example, we can call ourselves Christians, but that doesn't make us Christians."
Jocelyn tilted her head. "But we are Christians!"
"How do you know?" asked Mom. "Does saying so make you one?"
"No. I'm a Christian because Jesus died for me and I trusted Him to save me, and He did!" Jocelyn confidently replied.
"I get it!" said Olive. "Calling this insect a ladybird doesn't make it a bird, and calling that beetle a firefly doesn't turn it into a fly. And calling myself a Christian doesn't make me one. The only way we can become Christians is by trusting in Jesus."
Mom nodded. "When we trust Him as our Savior, He forgives our sins and puts His Spirit in our hearts. That's how a person becomes a Christian."
Jocelyn bent down close to the ladybird. "I'm not like you!" she declared. "You go by a name that isn't what you are. But I don't just go by the name Christian. I really am one!"
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Are you a Christian? Have you recognized that you're a sinner and can only be saved through Jesus, who died for your sins and then rose from the dead? Trusting in Him is the only way you can become a Christian. Don't be a Christian in name only. Trust Him as your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
As many as received Him [Jesus], to them He gave the right to become children of God. (NKJV) (John 1:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus to become a Christian
Bible Reading: Romans 12:3-8; Ephesians 2:10
Aubrey picked up her basket (Or what was intended to be a basket, she thought glumly) from the craft table on her way out. She'd just finished her morning classes at her weekly homeschool co-op. Now she and the other families in the group would gather at a nearby park for lunch and playtime. Aubrey looked forward to this day each week.
But today felt different. As Aubrey met her stepmother at their car, she sighed sadly.
"What's up, honey?" Gina asked as Aubrey tossed her backpack in the trunk.
"Just look at my basket!" Aubrey said, holding up the item she'd labored over during crafts class that day. "All I had to do was weave the cord in and out of the frame. That's all I needed to do to create a basket, which I was planning to give Grammy for her birthday. But I couldn't make the cord stay in place. Look, Gina!"
Aubrey's stepmom gently took Aubrey's creation in her hands and examined the cord that had slipped down to the bottom of the basket, leaving a bare, empty frame with a sloppy mess wrapped around the bottom.
"Wait 'til you see Claire's! It's perfect. She's better at everything than I am." Aubrey and Gina climbed into the car and headed toward the park.
"Aubrey, I know you're disappointed about your craft. But it's not true that Claire's better at everything. God has given everyone different abilities. And because you've trusted in Jesus and are God's child, you can use those gifts to build others up and point them to Him. You're better at some skills, even if you haven't discovered them yet."
After parking the car, Aubrey and Gina grabbed their lunch bags and walked toward the picnic benches at the park.
"I might not be good at crafts, but I'm good at other things. Is that what you mean?" Aubrey asked.
"Exactly!" Gina answered. "And I wouldn't give up on crafts yet either--sometimes finding our talents requires a lot of learning and effort. Keep learning what you can in your classes and trust God to help you develop the gifts He's given you."
"So, even if I can't make art, I'm still God's work of art," Aubrey concluded. Then she plopped down at the picnic table beside her artistic friend Claire.
-Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Do you ever compare yourself to others and wonder why you don't measure up? God made us each uniquely with different gifts, and He also gives each of us spiritual gifts when we trust Jesus for forgiveness and begin a relationship with Him. As you grow in your relationship with God, you'll discover more about the ways He's created you--and more about how you can use those gifts to help others and point them to Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us. (NIV) (Romans 12:6)
Today's Key Thought:
God created us with special gifts
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
As the small rowboat rocked with the gentle motion of the water, Andrew watched his father cast out his fishing line. "Dad," said Andrew, "I don't want to go to the new church tomorrow. All my friends are back at our old church. I know we had to move because of your job, but I'm going to miss Pastor Davis and my friends."
Dad slowly reeled in his line a little and looked at his son. "I'm going to miss everybody too, but when we get settled in a new church, we'll make new friends. We still need to worship God and learn more about Him."
"But can't we just have church by ourselves at home?" asked Andrew. "You could play your guitar and we could sing. Then you and Mom could teach us from the Bible."
"Hold on a minute," said Dad. "I've got a bite." A minute later, he held up a small bluegill. "Looks like this one is too small to be of any use to us," he said. "What would happen if we just threw this fish in the boat and left it there?"
"It would die," said Andrew.
"Well, what if, instead of throwing it back, we take the fish to another lake and let it loose?" Dad asked. "Would it be able to live there?"
Andrew thought a moment. "I think so, as long as we didn't leave it out of water too long."
"Well," said Dad, "our family is a little like a fish that's been taken from one lake and put into another. We're in a new place, but we have everything we need to go on living--food, clothes, a home." He paused. "There's one more thing we need. We need to have fellowship with other Christians, and church is a good place to do that. If we don't go, we're a little like fish out of water."
"We wouldn't die," Andrew pointed out.
"No," said Dad, "we wouldn't actually die, but we'd miss an environment where we can be fed and encouraged spiritually and where we can encourage others."
Andrew was silent a few moments. "Okay, Dad," he said finally. He gave his dad a little grin. "This is one fish you've convinced."
-Daniel A. Burns
How About You?
Have you felt out of place when you've had to change churches? If you're a Christian, you're really out of place--like a fish out of water--when you don't attend church. Meeting with other Christians is an important part of worshiping God and growing in our faith. When you have to move to a different church, it may take a little time before you feel at home there, but with God's help, you can make that transition.
Today's Key Verse:
We must not quit meeting together, as some are doing. No, we need to keep on encouraging each other. (ERV) (Hebrews 10:25)
Today's Key Thought:
Worship God with others
Bible Reading: Psalms 46:10; 119:162-171
Jasper leaned against a tree trunk, his hands behind his head. He loved the annual family camping trips. This year they'd seen deer when they hiked in the woods. They'd explored the river gorge and found fossils, and they'd climbed some of the rocks. They'd also fished and waded in the river. Jasper sighed with pleasure. "This sure is a cool place!"
It was too dark to see, but Jasper could hear the smile in his mom's voice. "You seem to be enjoying yourself in spite of no playgrounds or ice cream shops or TV or video games."
"Yeah." Jasper grinned.
Late that evening, the family sat contentedly by the smoldering campfire, listening to it crackle and hiss. Crickets chirped, and small creatures scurried by, rustling the leaves. In the background, the river murmured as it flowed over the rocks. "Wow! Just look at all those stars!" Jasper said as he gazed up at the sky. "We sure can't see this many stars at our house. They seem closer to us here than they do at home!"
The others laughed. "The stars aren't any closer," Dad told him. "But we're out in the country now, away from all the city lights. When there are a lot of bright lights around, we can't see the light of the fainter stars."
"Oh, I get it." Jasper smiled, still looking upward. "I like it here--it's peaceful. It's kind of nice to have it quiet--you can think out here."
"That's one of the reasons I like to come here too," said Grandpa. "The glaring lights of the city make it hard to see the stars, and the busyness of everyday demands can make it hard to see how God is working in our lives and blessing us. It's good to get away from the daily routine."
Dad nodded. "Yes, but we don't have to go camping in the country to do that. We can take a break from our busy routine each day to spend time with Jesus and concentrate on the truth and promises He shares with us in His Word."
Grandpa turned on his flashlight and searched through his duffel bag. "This would be a good time to do that," he said as he pulled out his Bible. "Tonight, let's read together and talk about some things God is telling us."
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Is the busyness of everyday life interfering with your time with God? It's a good idea to set aside quiet time to spend with Jesus and remember what He's done for you. You don't have to go out to the country to do that. Find a place where you can take a break from your normal activities and pay attention to what God is saying as you read your Bible and talk with Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Be still, and know that I am God. (NKJV) (Psalm 46:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Spend time with God
Bible Reading: Psalm 25:1-5
Kara went into the den where her parents were working on a puzzle. "I just got a text from Cadence," she announced glumly. "She told me she has a job for the summer--babysitting the Preston kids two afternoons each week."
Mom looked puzzled. "You don't sound very happy about it, but it seems like a good opportunity for Cadence."
"But I'd heard that Mrs. Preston wanted somebody to babysit, and I was going to ask her about it this weekend. I should have told Cadence I wanted it." Kara paused, then her face brightened. "If I text her back and tell her how much I want the job, maybe she'll let me have it."
"That wouldn't be fair to Cadence," said Mom. "Just be happy for your friend and pray about finding some other summer job."
"But why wouldn't God want me to have this job?" asked Kara. Then she glanced at her dad curiously. He had picked up a puzzle piece and had gotten out his pocket knife. He seemed to be considering cutting the puzzle piece. "Dad, what are you doing?" Kara asked.
"I tried to fit this puzzle piece into this empty spot," Dad explained, pointing to the puzzle. "It won't go in, but if I cut off this little bump, maybe I can make it fit."
"Dad! You know that won't work. Besides, you need that piece someplace else in the puzzle."
Mom laughed. "I think I know what your father is trying to say, Kara. That puzzle piece represents you."
"Right," said Dad. "Trying to jam this piece into a place where it doesn't fit is like you trying to get your own way about that job. Even if you succeeded, it wouldn't be a good fit because you would have hurt Cadence in order to get what you wanted."
Kara sighed. "I guess you're right."
Dad smiled at her. "I don't know what God has planned for you this summer, but I know His plans for you always involve caring about other people the way Jesus cares for us. Trust Him to help you be patient as you wait for another job opportunity to come along that fits His plans for you."
"Okay, I'll do that." Kara grinned. "Now let's figure out where that piece really goes!"
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
How patient are you when things don't go the way you want? Do you try to force them to go your way--even if others get hurt in the process? Don't insist on your own way when the pieces don't fit together. Be patient and wait for God to show you what to do next. He can use disappointing situations to bring you blessings and help you grow in your relationship with Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
My soul waits for the Lord. (NKJV) (Psalm 130:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't insist on your own way
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:9-16; Proverbs 3:1-6; Isaiah 53:6
Nathaniel gasped when he saw a quick flash of white through the trees. "A deer," he whispered. Carefully picking his way across sticks and fallen branches, Nathaniel quietly walked toward the deer. Glancing over his shoulder, he could still see his family's campsite, so he went on. When he got a little closer to the deer, it bounded off through the trees. Nathaniel ran after it, but soon it was lost from his sight. Nathaniel stopped beside a small stream. "Goodbye, Mr. Deer," he called as he turned back toward camp, but…where was camp? In one quick second Nathaniel knew he was lost.
Nathaniel's excitement turned to terror as he recalled the ranger's warning about bears in the area. Dear God, he prayed, I'm scared! I know I wasn't supposed to lose sight of our camp, but I forgot. I'm sorry! Please help me find my way back.
Just then Nathaniel heard a voice over the gurgling of the stream. "Nathaniel!" it called. "Nathaaaniel!"
"Dad!" Nathaniel called back. He ran toward the sound of the voice, and moments later, he was in his father's arms.
"Where have you been?" asked Dad. "We told you--" But the scolding stopped as Nathaniel's fears turned to tears. "It's okay, Nathaniel," Dad said, holding him tightly.
At family devotions around the campfire, Dad asked, "Nathaniel, what happened when you didn't follow our instructions today?"
"I got lost," said Nathaniel. "I knew I was supposed to stay close to our camp, and I didn't mean to disobey, but I just went my own way without thinking."
Dad nodded. "We all do that sometimes as Christians, don't we? Instead of obeying God, we do what we want instead."
"But you came and found me, Dad," Nathaniel said.
Dad smiled. "Yes, and Jesus does the same for us. He came to find us when we were lost sinners, taking the punishment for our sins Himself by dying on the cross so we could be saved. And He continues to show us love and forgiveness when we disobey Him and go our own way."
"I'm so glad you found me today, Dad" said Nathaniel. "And I'm glad Jesus comes to find us when we wander away."
-Daniel A. Burns
How About You?
Have you wandered away from God's path by doing things your way instead of His? The Bible says we've all gone astray and disobeyed God, and that's why Jesus came to earth--to save lost sinners. No matter how many times you wander away, Jesus offers you forgiveness. Stop going your own way and turn back to His loving arms that are waiting to welcome you home.
Today's Key Verse:
For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost. (CSB) (Luke 19:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus offers forgiveness
Bible Reading: Galatians 6:7-10; Philippians 2:12-13
Mae was lost in thought as she helped her mother put away the dishes. "A penny for your thoughts," said Mom, nudging her.
"They're worth much more than that!" Mae said with a grin. "But since you're my mom, I'll give them to you for free. I was thinking of something my teacher said this morning at church. She said the only way for us--for Christians--to be really happy is to do what God wants us to do instead of doing what we want." Mae paused. "It doesn't make sense. How can we be happy if we're always doing things we don't want to do?"
"I agree that if the Christian life was just a matter of forcing ourselves to do unpleasant things, it certainly wouldn't be very enjoyable," said Mom. "But what makes you think you wouldn't want to do what God asks of you?"
Mae shrugged. "Well, if I'm doing what He asks instead of what I want, that means I don't really want to do what He tells me to, doesn't it?"
"Let's think about that," Mom said. "When you came home from school today, what did you do?"
"I went next door and helped Mrs. Grimes wash windows," Mae replied.
"You've never really liked washing windows, so were you miserable doing that?" asked Mom.
Mae shook her head. "No. I really like Mrs. Grimes. I did it because I was glad to help her, not because I had to. I actually really enjoyed it!"
"In other words, you helped her out of love," Mom explained. "That's the real secret of a happy Christian life. If we try to serve God out of a sense of duty, we'll just feel like we're giving up the things we want to do. But when we look to Jesus as our source of joy and contentment, we can serve Him out of love and gratitude. That's what makes the difference! When we remember that His Spirit is working in us, making our desires look more like His, we can feel joy as He leads us in serving Him and showing His love to others."
Mae nodded thoughtfully. "Jesus loves me and died for me, and He fills me with joy every day. I want to serve Him out of love for everything He's done for me."
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Are you afraid God will ask you to do something you don't want to do? Sometimes He asks us to do things that are difficult, but remember that Jesus, the source of all joy and contentment, will be with you. Because He has given you His Spirit, you can serve Him out of love for all He's done for you. Trust Him to guide you in doing the things He wants you to do, knowing that He wants to fill your life with the joy that comes from sharing His love with others.
Today's Key Verse:
As we have opportunity, let us work for the good of all. (CSB) (Galatians 6:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Serve God out of love, not duty
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; John 15:12-15
Addison sat cross-legged on the bedroom floor, surrounded by snapshots. "Look, Mom!" she exclaimed. "Here's another picture of me and Mousie. I really loved that old stuffed animal."
As Addison shuffled through several old photos, her mother peeked over her shoulder. There were pictures of Addison swinging in the backyard, riding her first bike, and wearing a red Christmas dress. There were a number of pictures of her blowing out candles on birthday cakes. In many of the pictures, the little girl clutched a blue stuffed toy.
"Why did you love that grubby old bear so much?" asked Mom. She laughed. "It really was a bear, you know, not a mouse."
Addison grinned. "I know, but I thought he looked more like a mouse. I guess I loved him because he was a good guy to talk to. He just sat and listened." Addison could remember times when she had sobbed about her hurts into the fur of her faded blue friend. "I told Mousie all my secrets, and he seemed to understand--even though he never could tell me so or hug me back," she said as she gathered the pictures and put them into a shoebox.
"We could both use a friend like that right now, couldn't we?" said Mom.
"Yeah," said Addison. "It's been a little lonely since we moved here. There's a girl at school named Rani who I've gotten to know a little. I'm hoping we'll become good friends." Addison looked at her mom. "That reminds me--Rani invited me to come with her to something called vacation Bible school at her church in a few weeks. Can I go?"
"I think that would be fine, once I talk to Rani's parents," Mom said.
Addison nodded. "Rani told me she learns about Jesus at church. She said He's her best friend. Maybe He'll be my friend too--and yours too, Mom." She picked up a photo that had fallen to the floor and looked at it. "Maybe He's the kind of friend we can tell our secrets and hurts to," she said. "The kind of friend who understands what we're feeling. An even better friend than Mousie."
-Phyllis I. Klomparens
How About You?
Do you need a friend--one who you can share all your thoughts with? The Bible talks about the value of friendship. And it tells about the best friend of all--Jesus. He wants to be your friend forever. He gave His life to save you and make you His friend! He wants you to tell Him about all your joys and sorrows, your hopes and disappointments. Trust Him as your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (NKJV) (Proverbs 18:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus will be your best friend
Bible Reading: James 3:3-10
Beck was talking on his phone as he walked into the house after school. "I'm not kidding, Jake! I heard Mrs. Simpson comes to school looking all bleary-eyed because she's an alcoholic. The kids say she sometimes stumbles over her words in class, and she…" Beck paused when he noticed his dad motioning for him to hang up. "Gotta go, Jake. My dad wants me for something. Bye." Beck hung up. "What is it, Dad?"
"You'll have to call Jake back and apologize for the gossip I just heard," said Dad. When Beck started to protest, Dad held up a hand. "Do you have any idea why Mrs. Simpson is having a hard time?"
Beck shook his head. "I don't have her for any classes. I just see her in the hall sometimes, and the kids say she drinks a lot."
"Well, you have no reason to believe that's true. The fact is that Mrs. Simpson's husband is very sick. She has to stay up many nights caring for him. No wonder she's tired."
"Oh…I didn't know that." Beck looked truly sorry.
"Come with me--I want to show you something." Dad led the way to the garage. At his work table, he picked up a hammer and some nails. "Pound these nails about halfway into this board." Looking puzzled, Beck pounded the nails. "Okay," said Dad, "now pull them back out." Beck did so. "Look at this board. What do you see?" asked Dad.
Beck glanced at the board. "Nail holes."
Dad nodded. "Words can be as sharp as nails, Beck. When you use them the wrong way, they can hurt people. When that happens, you should apologize to the people you've hurt. Hopefully, they will forgive you. But even then, you can never take back all the harm you've caused."
Beck nodded. "I get your point, Dad. I'll call Jake and tell him what I said was wrong."
"Good," said Dad. "I think you need to confess your wrong to Jesus too. He always forgives, and He'll help you see others the way He does--people He loves so much that He has nail holes in His hands from when He died for our sins. That's the kind of love we need to reflect in the way we speak to and about others."
-Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Are you careful about the words you speak? Or do you carelessly say things that hurt the feelings or reputations of others? Remember that words leave their mark even when you apologize for what you said. The Bible says our words as Christians should not be sharp and hurtful but helpful and loving. Trust Jesus to help you see others the way He does and speak in a way that shows them His love.
Today's Key Verse:
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips. (NKJV) (Psalm 141:3)
Today's Key Thought:
Think before you speak
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:97-105
Liam squinted at the pitcher, ready to send the ball soaring. But three swings later, he heard the umpire call, "You're out!" Liam hung his head and walked off the field. Why can't I hit the ball like I used to? he wondered.
The next morning, Liam sat next to his friend Colson during Sunday school as their teacher, Miss Bryan, started the class in song. When they finished, she held up a card. "This is our new memory verse for the month. Liam, can you read it aloud for the rest of the class?"
Liam squinted at the card. "You--Your word is, is…" His voice trailed off when he couldn't finish.
Miss Bryan looked to Liam's left. "Colson, can you help Liam out?"
Liam's face flushed as Colson read the verse perfectly. He wondered if he would ever be able to do anything right again.
Miss Bryan pulled Liam's parents aside when they came to pick him up at the end of the hour. Later on the car ride home, Dad said, "Liam, we're going to schedule an appointment for you with the optometrist."
"The optom-what?" Liam questioned.
"The eye doctor," Mom said. "Miss Bryan mentioned you had trouble reading the verse today in Sunday school. She thinks you might need glasses, which could explain why you've been struggling in baseball."
A few weeks later, Liam took his new pair of glasses out of the case and put them on. Instantly, the world came into focus. He spent the entire day moving his glasses up and down to see the difference. Everything looks so crisp! he thought.
His thoughts circled back to the verse Miss Bryan had taught them: Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
The Bible makes things clear just like my glasses do, Liam realized. It tells us who God is and how He sent His Son, Jesus, to save us. When my way is unclear, I need to read God's Word and trust Him to guide me.
"You're up!" Colson said.
Liam shook himself from his thoughts, walked over to the plate, and smiled. Because this time, things would be clear again.
-Olivia Summers
How About You?
Do you need glasses? Sometimes our way seems out of focus or fuzzy. It can happen so gradually we might not even realize it! Reading the Bible helps put things into focus. It tells us who God is and what He did to save us so we could be His children. It guides us in how to live so others can see we belong to Jesus. The next time you're faced with a difficult situation, trust God to use the truth of His Word to shine light on your path.
Today's Key Verse:
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:105 )
Today's Key Thought:
The Bible reveals God's truth
Bible Reading: Psalm 30:5; Philippians 4:4
Georgia went home crying to her sister Cecilia. "Cece, I was trying to be joyful today, but I can't! I saw how happy my friend was when she told me about her parents' anniversary. It must be easy for her to be joyful since her parents are still together." Georgia looked down, her bronze hair falling in her face.
Her older sister tucked Georgia's hair behind her ear. "Yeah, I understand." Cecilia sighed and looked down at her feet. "Do you remember when you were only four years old?"
"Yeah, maybe." Georgia looked puzzled.
"You had so much joy," said Cecilia. "I remember one day at summer camp, the playground suddenly grew dark, and rain came pouring down. All the other kids ran underneath the playground equipment for shelter. The teachers started to get nervous as they searched for the kids. But you stayed and danced in the rain with your bright smile shining in the darkness. The kids began to come out from their hiding places and dance in the rain with you."
Georgia smiled. "Oh, I guess I do remember that. I felt so much joy, even when it was cold and raining."
Cecilia nodded. "And it was contagious! Having joy through trials is like being a light in the darkness, and Jesus says that being a light can lead others to Him."
Georgia's face fell downcast again. "But what if I can't be happy right now?"
Cecilia put an arm around her sister. "It's okay to be sad, Geo. I am too. It's just like the verse from Psalms Sister Marci read to us in church--'Weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.' God knows that we may be sad for some time about Mom and Dad getting divorced, and that's okay. Just like the rain only lasts for a season, so do our trials. So long as we keep our focus on Jesus and remember that He's with us, we will experience a joy like no other. He understands our sadness and promises to dry all our tears for good one day."
"You're right, Cece! I will remember to put my hope in Jesus, even if it's hard."
Cecilia turned on her favorite tune and smiled. "Shall we dance?"
-Toria Keyes
How About You?
Are you going through a trial in your life that's making you sad or depressed? Whatever struggle you're facing, whether it's a bad grade on an exam, your pet dying, or missing a friend who moved away, Jesus understands your hurt and wants to provide you with His joy and peace. Remember that He loves you and is always with you, and trust Him to fill you with His joy even when you feel sad.
Today's Key Verse:
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. (NIV) (Romans 15:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus brings joy, even in trials
Bible Reading: John 17:20-23; 1 Corinthians 12:25-26
"Dad, at Declan's church they don't teach exactly the same things as they do at our church," Nicholas said one day. "We had an argument about it. Declan said his church is right, and I said ours is. Ours really is right, isn't it?"
Before Dad could attempt an answer, Nicholas's little sister and brother came into the kitchen carrying a toy keyboard. They set it on the table. "Connor and me want to play one of the songs Daddy taught us," said Nevaeh. "Okay?"
Nicholas laughed. "Okay." Using just one finger each, the kids began to play. As they carefully pressed the keys, Nicholas thought he recognized "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star." But then it became obvious that the two youngsters were each playing a different song.
"Wait a minute!" Dad stopped the little musicians. "You're not following my instructions. I said you should decide together which song to play and then come and show me how well you could do it. Go practice one song, and then come and play for us again."
When the children were gone, Dad grinned at Nicholas. "That sure didn't sound the way I intended their music to turn out. But you know, this reminds me of what we were talking about. Jesus wants His children to all play the same song. Anyone who trusts in Him for the forgiveness of their sins is part of His family, and He wants all Christians to be unified--to be one."
"But which song should we be playing? Whose church is right--Declan's or ours?" Nicholas asked again.
"God's way is right," Dad answered. "I don't know what church Declan attends, so I don't know what his church teaches. But we obviously believe the church we go to teaches the truth of what God says in His Word. That's why we go there."
"So that's what I should tell Declan the next time we argue about church differences?" asked Nicholas.
"Why argue? Why don't you and Declan make an agreement to read the Bible and pray that Jesus would help you both grow in your understanding of what it says?" suggested Dad. "Trust Him to help you be in harmony as you share God's love and truth with those around you."
-Katherine R. Adams
How About You?
Do you argue with kids from other churches? Christians don't always agree on everything, but anyone who also knows Jesus as their Savior is your brother or sister in Christ. Instead of arguing over every detail, we need to encourage each other and work together to share God's love and truth with the world. Remember that all God's children are united in Jesus, and trust Him to help you choose Christian harmony over arguments.
Today's Key Verse:
There is…one Spirit…one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all. (NKJV) (Ephesians 4:4-6)
Today's Key Thought:
Christians are one in Christ
Bible Reading: Psalm 107:29; Mark 4:35-41
Kyle and Callam looked out at their backyard as rain pelted the glass. Lightning flashed and thunder crashed. "Yikes!" Callam jumped.
"That was close," Kyle said as the tornado siren sounded.
"Everyone to the basement!" Mom yelled. She turned on the TV downstairs to keep track of the storm.
"A tornado warning has been issued for our area," the TV meteorologist said. "Go to your safe place now."
"I wish Dad was here," Callam said as winds howled and objects outside hit their house.
"We should pray," said Kyle.
The boys and Mom held hands. They prayed for God to protect their family, friends, and neighbors. "Amen," Mom said. "Never forget, boys, that God is our shelter in every storm of life."
Just then the electricity went off. Kyle turned on a flashlight.
"Do you remember in the Bible when Jesus and His disciples were in a boat and a storm suddenly came on the lake?" Mom asked.
Callam nodded. "Jesus was asleep, and the disciples thought they were going to drown."
"They woke Jesus up," Kyle said, "and He told the storm, 'Quiet! Be still!' Then everything was calm again."
"That's right," said Mom. "I know it's stormy and scary outside now, but remember that Jesus is here with us too. He saved us from sin and gave us eternal life, and He will never leave us, no matter what happens. We can trust Him to calm our fears and comfort us with His presence in the midst of life's storms."
Just then Mom's cell phone rang. "It's Dad." She put it on speaker. Dad told them he was okay and would be home as soon as he could get there.
"It sounds quiet now," Kyle said after Dad hung up. "Do you think we should look?"
"I'll take a peek," Mom said, going upstairs. "The storm's passed," she called down to them a minute later. "Come on up."
Kyle and Callam went upstairs and looked outside. Tree branches, twigs, and leaves littered the yard. "Look!" Callam pointed. "A trampoline's way back by the woods. Glad it missed our house."
"Thank You, Jesus, for keeping us calm and safe through the storm," Kyle whispered.
-Lynda Boucher
How About You?
Have you ever been scared during a storm? Strong winds, heavy rains, and thunder and lightning can frighten us. But there are other kinds of storms in life that might make us feel afraid, sad, or anxious. Whatever kind of storm comes your way, remember that Jesus is with you. Trust Him to calm your fears and give you strength. And thank Him that you never need to face storms alone.
Today's Key Verse:
God is our safe place and our strength. He is always our help when we are in trouble. (NLV) (Psalm 46:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus calms us in our storms
Bible Reading: Psalm 103:10-14; 1 Peter 1:17-21
Rachel groaned when she discovered a library book tucked away in the corner of her closet. I checked this out more than a year ago! she thought as she flipped through the pages. By now, the fine will be really huge. I'll never be able to pay it! She sighed. I bet Mom and Dad will be mad too. They always say I need to be more responsible.
Rachel shoved the book back into the closet, but she continued to worry about it for days. Finally, just before family devotions one evening, she told her parents she had found the long-forgotten book. "I'm really sorry I didn't return it a long time ago. I would have told you before, but I thought I'd try to save enough money to pay the fine first." Rachel looked down at her hands. "I don't know if I'll ever have enough money though. The fine's probably really big by now. What should I do?"
"Oh!" said her mom. "When I was at the library several months ago, the librarian asked me about that book. It was already so long overdue that it was cheaper to buy it than to pay the fine, so that's what I did." She smiled at Rachel. "I'll admit, I was pretty annoyed that you hadn't brought it back. But then I completely forgot to tell you about it!"
"Whew!" Rachel breathed a sigh of relief. "Thanks a lot, Mom. Just think--I've been feeling so guilty and worried, and all the time the book was paid for!"
"What happened to you is a good introduction to what we'll be reading for devotions tonight," Dad said as he flipped through his Bible. "People often feel guilty for years about things they've done wrong. Just like you put off going back to the library, we might put off confessing our sin to God. Like you, we may think we need to pay the fine for our sins by cleaning up our lives and doing good things to make up for our wrongs."
Mom nodded. "And like you, we'd never be able to pay that debt. We need to realize that Jesus paid the full price for our sins on the cross. All we have to do is trust in Him and receive His forgiveness."
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you feel guilty about things you've done? Are you trying to do better--to clean up your life? Perhaps you even try to do good things to make up for bad deeds done in the past. The debt of your sin is more than you could ever pay. Jesus already paid a great price--the full price--for all your sins. You don't have to feel guilty anymore. Trust Him as your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
You were bought at a price. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 6:20)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus paid the debt for your sin
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 3:5-9; 2 Corinthians 6:1-2
"Morgan was in Sunday school today," Leah announced with a frown.
"Why do you look so down about it?" asked Mom in surprise. "I think that's great! Didn't you invite her yourself a few times?"
"That's the point," said Leah. "I've been trying to get her to come to church for three years, and she's always said no. Then today she shows up with Safiya!"
"Well, the important thing is that she came," Mom said. She was interrupted by the doorbell. "That must be Grandma with those flower plants she said she'd bring over."
After Grandma left, Leah and her mom decided to plant the flowers right away. "You know something, honey?" Mom said as she handed Leah a trowel. "These plants remind me of you and Morgan."
"Me and Morgan?" Leah looked confused. "How?"
Mom dug in the dirt as she explained. "Well, Grandma planted the seeds for these flowers and nursed them along until they developed healthy roots. Now we'll back up Grandma's efforts and care for them. And, in a way, you planted a seed in Morgan--you first invited her to learn more about Jesus at church. Then Safiya backed up your efforts by inviting her too. Right?"
"I guess so," Leah said, still pouting. "But why couldn't Morgan have come when I invited her?"
Mom shook her head. "I don't know. But remember, Leah, sharing Christ is not a competition. God is using both you and Safiya to reach Morgan." She paused for a moment, then asked, "Do you remember what the apostle Paul said about himself and a man named Apollos? Which one of them deserved credit for reaching the people of Corinth?"
Leah scrunched up her eyebrows as she thought about it. "Actually…neither," she said at last. "They both helped, but God is the one who really deserved the credit."
Mom nodded. "Yes, and that's the way it is with Morgan too. You and Safiya--and perhaps several others--are helping to reach her with the good news of Jesus, but it's God who is at work in her heart and life. He's the only one who deserves credit."
-Lenora McWhorten
How About You?
Are you happy when people you've shared Jesus with come to know Him as their Savior--even if they respond to someone else's invitation to trust in Him? It's important to work together with other Christians in helping people know about Jesus. It's not a competition, and since God is the only one who can change people's hearts, none of us can take the credit. When anyone comes to Christ, we can rejoice together and thank God for making the seeds we planted grow.
Today's Key Verse:
I [Paul] planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 3:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Work together to share Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 6:1-2, 11-14; 8:5-6; 1 John 1:8-10
Trevor stopped working and wiped sweat from his face. Grandpa stopped too. "Gardening is hard work," he said. "Maybe we should take a break and go have some of Grandma's cookies and punch."
As they headed to the house, Grandpa pointed to a single row of peas he had planted two weeks earlier. "Taking care of a garden is hard work. Weeds grow easily, don't they?"
"Yeah," said Trevor. "Why did God make weeds, anyway?"
"Well, they're the result of sin," said Grandpa. "We have them because we live in a sinful, broken world." He looked at Trevor. "Are there any weeds growing in your life that need to be pulled?"
"You mean in our yard at home?" Trevor shrugged. "I guess there probably are some."
Grandpa smiled and shook his head. "I mean in your life."
"In my life? I don't get it," said Trevor. "How would weeds grow in my life?"
"Not weeds like these," said Grandpa. "Weeds of sin. Farmers need to destroy weeds to keep them from taking over and hurting their crops, and we have to get rid of sinful things in our lives so they don't take over and hurt our relationships with others." Grandpa stooped to pull a tall weed. "For example, I used to let my temper take over whenever I felt angry. I hurt a lot of people's feelings and often caused them to get angry too, and I let anger and bitterness take root in my heart by holding grudges."
"Really? I didn't know you had trouble with your temper." Trevor frowned. "I'm not always nice to my sister. Being unkind is like a weed too, isn't it?" Grandpa nodded. "So, how do I pull a weed in my life?" Trevor asked.
"First you need to confess it to Jesus," Grandpa said. "He will forgive you and help you be the kind of brother He wants you to be. Because you trust in Him, sin has no power over you. Instead, you can live by the Holy Spirit's power and choose to act in a loving way." Grandpa sat down on a bench near the garden. "You may need to ask your sister to forgive you too."
Trevor sat down next to him. "That's hard--even harder than asking Jesus to forgive me." He sighed. "But I know you're right."
-Gail L. Jenner
How About You?
Is there a weed of sin that needs to be pulled from your life? Do you have a bad temper or a habit of disobeying? Whatever it is, God says you don't have to keep doing it. If you know Jesus, sin has no power over you. Don't let it have a place in your life. Confess your sin to Jesus and accept His forgiveness, and trust Him to help you get rid of that weed. Then ask anyone you've hurt to forgive you too.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not let sin control the way you live; do not give in to sinful desires. (NLT) (Romans 6:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't let sin take root
Bible Reading: Psalm 145:3; Isaiah 40:21-28
When Nolan's mom told him it was time for family devotions, he looked up from his video game. "Aw, Mom, can't we skip it tonight? I'm almost to the next level of this game. Besides, I know all that stuff. I hear it all the time at church, and I even go to a Christian school!"
"Nolan," Dad called from the next room. "Turn off the game and come now, please."
Nolan sighed and followed his mom into the living room.
The next morning when Mom told Nolan to hurry and get ready for church, he frowned. "We probably won't hear anything we haven't heard before," he grumbled as he shuffled toward his room. A few minutes later, he was back again. "I need new pants!" he exclaimed, motioning at the pants he was wearing. "Look at these. They're getting really short."
Mom nodded. "I see that. You're growing right out of them. We'll look for a new pair this week."
"Good idea." Dad grinned. "I guess those pants must have shrunk," he joked. "Or could it be that you're growing taller?" He looked at his son thoughtfully. "But, Nolan, I get the feeling that you think God is like that old pair of pants."
"What do you mean?" asked Nolan, looking at his dad in surprise.
"Well, you've implied that you know all there is to know about God," Dad explained. "You seem to think you've outgrown Him. But the truth is you'll need a whole lifetime to learn about God--what He's like and what He does and what He teaches in His Word. Even then, you'll only know just a little. God is so great and so wonderful, we'll never know all there is to know about Him."
"That's right," said Mom. "But He wants us to get to know Him better. Jesus became one of us and died for our sins so we could have a relationship with Him. As we learn more about His promises and what He's done for us, He helps us understand more about Him so our relationship with Him can grow."
Nolan looked down at the pants he was wearing. "Okay. I'll pay attention in church to see what I can learn. But first I need to put on some different pants!"
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Do you feel like you know enough about God? Do you think the Bible stories you've heard before have nothing left to teach you? You can never outgrow God. He is the great and everlasting God--the mighty Creator of the entire universe. There will always be more things to learn about Him. You can't ever know everything, but you can know Jesus as your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then let Him teach you more and more throughout your life.
Today's Key Verse:
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (NKJV) (2 Peter 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
You can't outgrow God
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 9:6-8; James 1:17
"I don't see why I always have to put some of the money I earn in the church collection," grumbled Amos. He fumbled in his pocket and reluctantly took out some coins, which he set aside. "I only have a few dollars left now!"
"Amos," Mom began, but before she could continue, the patio door jerked open and Vivienne dashed into the room.
"Mom!" exclaimed Vivienne, holding her hands behind her back. "Guess what?"
"We give up," said Amos. "What?"
Vivienne flashed a triumphant grin. "Look!" She held out both hands. In each one lay a big red tomato. "My very first tomatoes are ripe already!" She looked at her brother and laughed. "I told you they were getting ripe fast, and you said they wouldn't be ready for a long time yet. But here they are!"
"Wonderful!" said Mom. "They look delicious. Should we have them for dinner tonight?"
"That would be great, but…" Vivienne paused. "It's just that Grandma gave me those plants, and Grandpa helped me plant them and taught me how to take care of them. I think I want to give these first two tomatoes to them."
"Oh, I like that idea," said Mom. "Should we bring them to Grandma and Grandpa's house now so they can have them for dinner?"
Vivienne nodded. "Yeah. I want them to be the first to taste my tomatoes!"
After Vivienne went to find a bowl for her tomatoes, Mom turned to Amos. "You know, Amos, today Vivienne has been a good example of the way we're supposed to give to God. Vivienne didn't have to give her first tomatoes to Grandma and Grandpa--she wanted to offer them as a gift because she's thankful for what they did for her. That's how God wants us to give to Him--cheerfully and with thanks for all He's done for us."
"Oh," Amos murmured. "I guess the money and the things we have come from God in the first place, huh?"
Mom nodded. "He's provided us with everything we own, and more importantly, He's given us eternal life through His Son, Jesus. Nothing we can buy compares to the joy and peace we have in Him."
Amos took a few more coins from his pocket. "I want to put these in the collection plate too."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you give a portion of your allowance or earnings to the Lord? Do you give it willingly and cheerfully? Remember that everything you have is God's generous gift to you. When you give to Him--to His people in need or to His work here on earth--you are only giving back what you received from Him in the first place. He's also given you the greatest gift of all--His Son, Jesus. So when you give, do it thankfully and with a cheerful heart.
Today's Key Verse:
Everything comes from you [God], and we have given you only what comes from your hand. (NIV) ( 1 Chronicles 29:14 )
Today's Key Thought:
Give cheerfully to God
Bible Reading: Isaiah 49:8-16; Matthew 12:46-50
"Okay, kids," Miss Long, the substitute teacher, said as she passed cards out to Mihai's class. "Your task is to create a card for your mom or stepmom thanking her for all the wonderful things she does for you."
Exclamations of delight erupted from everyone except Mihai. Staring at the blank card, his insides churned. He clenched his fists, wanting to tear it up into tiny pieces. It's not fair, he thought, swallowing the angry tears down. If Mrs. Flint was here, this never would have happened.
Looking over at his best friend Isaiah, he sighed. Mihai's mom had left five years ago, leaving a note telling them she was returning to her birth country and not to contact her. They hadn't heard from her since. Dad no longer spoke about it.
"Mihai, you haven't started yet," Miss Long said, patrolling the classroom.
"He hasn't got a mother," Isaiah whispered. "Well, not one living at home."
"Oh! I'm sorry," Miss Long said, pausing for a moment. "Well, is there another lady in your family who cares for you that you could thank?"
Mihai thought about it. An image of Auntie Sue popped up in his mind. She was always kind to Mihai and remembered his birthday. She didn't have any children, but she had helped heal some of the hurt his mother had caused the family.
Mihai smiled at Mrs. Long. "Yes," he said, and set to work.
Carefully, he drew a picture of some of his aunt's favorite things--tulips and Labrador retrievers--before writing words of gratitude inside.
"Thank you, Miss Long," he said later. "I realized I've taken Auntie Sue for granted. She's done a lot for me and my family, and I want to thank her."
When Mihai handed Auntie Sue the card on Mother's Day, she opened it and blinked back tears of happiness. "Thank you, Mihai," she whispered. "Sometimes Mother's Day makes me feel sad that I never had children of my own, but I'm so thankful I have a wonderful nephew who has reminded me I'm not forgotten." She gave Mihai a hug. "God never forgets His children, and I'm so glad we're both part of His family and can remind each other of that."
-Cindy Lee
How About You?
Do you have a positive female role model in your life? Maybe you don't have a mom and you feel sadness when moms are celebrated at Mother's Day. Know that our loving Father loves you very much. The Bible says all those who trust in Jesus are part of His family, and He never forgets His children. He provides us with love and care through our Christian family. Who are you thankful for this Mother's Day for reminding you of God's love?
Today's Key Verse:
Can a woman forget her nursing child? Can she have no pity on the son to whom she gave birth? Even these may forget, but I will not forget you. (NLV) ( Isaiah 49:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Be thankful for female role models
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-5
Joey liked to visit Great-Uncle Hank's dairy farm. He liked to work in the barn and swing on ropes in the hayloft. He liked to ride on the tractor. But most of all, he liked to work with Uncle Hank on an old car in the shed behind the tractor barn.
Uncle Hank enjoyed restoring old cars, and now he was patiently working to restore another one to its original condition. First, it had been taken apart piece by piece. Then each piece had been cleaned. Worn parts had been repaired or replaced. The old paint had been stripped off the body, the rust removed, and a new coat of paint applied. Now the work was almost done. As Uncle Hank put the engine back together, Joey polished the car until it shone.
As they were working on the car one day, Uncle Hank turned to Joey. "How would you like to have this car?" he asked. Joey grinned, and his eyes lit up. Uncle Hank smiled. "I can see that you like it as much as I do, and someday it will be yours. It's going to be your inheritance from me."
That evening, Joey excitedly told his parents about Uncle Hank's decision. "What a nice thing for your great-uncle to do," Mom said.
Dad nodded. "It certainly is."
"Yeah! That's probably the best thing I'll ever get," said Joey. "I don't know anybody else who would leave me such a nice inheritance." He grinned at his dad. "Except maybe you and Mom."
Dad smiled back at him. "Actually, there's an even better inheritance waiting for all of us who know Jesus as our Savior. God promises that all who trust in Jesus Christ will someday enjoy all the blessings of eternal life with Him. One day He will resurrect Christians who have died from the dead and make everything new, and we'll live with Him forever in a world free of sin and death."
"Wow," said Joey. "That's even more exciting than owning Uncle Hank's car someday! I'm glad Uncle Hank knows Jesus and will get that inheritance too."
-Tom VandenBerg
How About You?
Is there an inheritance waiting in heaven for you? There is if you've trusted Jesus Christ as your Savior. Jesus wants those who know Him to spend eternity with Him. He died for our sins and then rose from the dead so we could be free of sin and death and live with Him forever. Trust in Jesus and look forward to the inheritance He has for you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
We have a priceless inheritance--an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. (NLT) (1 Peter 1:4 )
Today's Key Thought:
Receive an inheritance from God
Bible Reading: Psalm 18:27-33
Lia couldn't stop thinking about her ballet practice earlier that afternoon as she followed her mom through the zoo. I'll never be able to do a high demi pointe, she thought, sighing.
Mom stopped when they reached a habitat filled with rock formations. "Here we are! These animals I want you to see live in Africa among these types of rocks called kopje."
Lia read the sign. "Klipspringers? That's a fun name--oh look, Mom! There's one right there!" Lia and Mom watched in fascination as the two-foot-tall dwarf antelope leapt gracefully from one kopje rock to the next.
"Look at how tiny their hooves are--it says here they're the diameter of a dime. I can just imagine a little pink tutu on that klipspringer and itty bitty ballet shoes!" Lia squealed in delight.
Mom smiled. "Did you notice how they stand?"
"Yeah, it kind of looks like they're standing on their toes, even though they have hooves. It's so impressive that they can jump and land on a section of rock no bigger than the size of my hand!"
Mom nodded. "God provided the klipspringer with everything it needs to live in this type of habitat. It has quite a few predators in the wild, but living among these rocks helps them stay safer. It reminds me of how God is our Rock. We can take refuge in Jesus because He has saved us from sin and promises to always be with us."
Lia smiled. "I understand why you wanted me to see these klipspringers, Mom. When I go to ballet next week, I'll try to remember that God has given me everything I need in Him--even if I can't stand up on my toes as well as these cuties!"
"Did you know that there are even a few Bible verses that talk about deer's hooves?" asked Mom. "In the book of Psalms, David writes about how God shields us when we take refuge in Him and gives us His strength. He says God made his feet like the feet of a deer and enabled him to stand on the heights."
"That's really awesome, Mom!" Lia moved her feet through the five ballet positions. "Even when I feel like I've fallen short in ballet, I'm God's child forever, and that's something I can never lose."
-Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Do you ever feel like you don't have what it takes to navigate the hard places in your life? If you are a child of God, He has promised to give you His strength when you feel weak, His presence when you feel alone, His love with no strings attached. Let Him be your Rock. Trust Him to provide you with everything you need and to help you stand firm in His love when you face difficulties.
Today's Key Verse:
Who is the Rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure. He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he causes me to stand on the heights. (NIV) (Psalm 18:31-33)
Today's Key Thought:
Stand strong in God's love
Bible Reading: Romans 5:1-5; 8:14-19
Lia threw her ballet shoes into the back seat of the car and slid in with a sigh.
"Practice went that well, huh?" Mom gave Lia a sympathetic glance before pulling away from the curb.
"Mom, I want to quit--I keep falling short in my high demi pointe! Every time I try to raise up higher on my toes, my legs feel all wobbly. Today I fell, and Cathy laughed at me! She does all her moves perfectly. It's not fair!"
"Lia, you've got to remember that Cathy has been in ballet for years and this is only your sixth month. She shouldn't have laughed at you, but you need to focus on what you have accomplished and how far you've come."
Scowling, Lia scrunched farther down in her seat. She tried to stop the tears from filling her eyes. "I just feel so useless sometimes--like everyone is better than me and more talented."
"I think everyone feels that way at some point," said Mom. "However, you can't let how you feel or other people's skill levels deter you from something you have a passion for. I want you to finish out the year, and then we can reevaluate if you want to continue ballet."
"I really do like ballet," Lia said. "But what if I don't get any better?"
Mom smiled at her. "Then remember whose child you are."
Lia rolled her eyes. "Yours, obviously."
Mom laughed. "Yes, but I'm talking about you being God's child. Whenever you feel inadequate, remember that He loves you regardless of what you can or can't do. Do you remember the verse we read in church about how God pours out His love on His children?"
"Yes, and Pastor Andy talked about how we don't need to live in fear because Jesus did what we couldn't do--He lived a perfect life and then died and rose again to make us right with God." Lia gazed out her window quizzically. "Mom, I thought we were going home--why are we at the zoo?"
"Impromptu field trip! I just thought of an animal you need to see that will encourage you to stand strong even when you feel like you're falling short. Come on!"
Lia grinned. "Now you've really thought of everything!"
-Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Do you ever feel like nothing you do is good enough? God has given everyone talents, but it often takes hard work and time when you want to improve in certain areas. When you're feeling defeated about not being as good at something as you would like to be, take comfort in the fact that you are God's beloved child. You never have to work for this privilege--you simply belong to Him because you trust in Jesus, who shed His precious blood for you.
Today's Key Verse:
See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! (NIV) (1 John 3:1)
Today's Key Thought:
God's love for you never falls short
Bible Reading: Psalms 25:8; 32:8-11
After supper one evening, Caden helped clear the table and then covered it with old newspapers. "I'm going to work on my new model car," he said. He grinned as he took it out of the box. "Just look at all those pieces! And these details are awesome!"
Caden began working, but it wasn't long before he went looking for his father. "Can you help me with my model car, Dad?" he asked.
Dad looked up from his computer. "Sure, but can you manage it by yourself until I finish what I'm working on?"
"I'll try," Caden replied. But when Dad came to help him a little later, almost nothing had been done.
"What's the problem, buddy?" asked Dad.
Caden sighed. "I don't understand how everything is supposed to fit together."
Dad took the instruction sheet. "Okay," he said after glancing at it, "let's figure it out together." They got to work and soon were busy reading instructions, finding pieces, and fitting them to one another.
After a while, Caden's mom reminded him that he needed to do his homework. "Okay, and I need to learn a verse for Bible club tomorrow too," said Caden. He sighed. "I like Bible club, but it takes up a lot of time." He turned to his dad. "Thanks for helping. I never would have gotten this far without you. I didn't understand what the sheet was saying until you walked me through it."
Dad nodded. "Then trying to put this model together without my help would be a little like trying to live the Christian life without help from other Christians," he said. "That's something to remember as you learn your verse. Your Bible club teacher and our pastor and Sunday school teachers all help us understand the truth of the Bible. They help us understand the gospel--the good news that Jesus died and rose again to save us and give us eternal life--and how we should live as God's children. We need to remember to thank the Lord for them."
Caden thought about it. "I guess you're right," he said. "There are lots of things in the Bible that I don't understand by myself." He grinned. "And you and Mom help too."
-Dean Kelley
How About You?
Do you thank God for those who help you understand His Word, the Bible? He wants you to learn His ways. One method of doing that is to read the Bible for yourself. But God also provides godly men and women who can help you understand passages that are difficult for you. Listen to them, learn from them, and thank God for them. Let them help you discover what God is telling you.
Today's Key Verse:
Teach me Your way, O Lord. (NKJV) (Psalm 27:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Thank God for Christian teachers
Bible Reading: Matthew 15:32-39
Bree's mom looked flustered as she grabbed her purse. "I'm going across the street to Grandma's to shampoo her hair," Mom said. "When I get back, I'd love for you to help me make some cookies. I'm supposed to bring a treat to work tomorrow."
"Okay, Mom," Bree said. As Mom hurried out the door, Bree had an idea. I've helped Mom make cookies lots of times. I'll mix them now, and then Mom will only have to bake them. Bree went to the kitchen and found the recipe for her favorite cookies--chocolate mountains. She read the directions, then began putting ingredients into a bowl and stirring them together. Let's see--it says to add a teaspoon of baking powder. Bree looked for the baking powder, but she couldn't find it. Well, it only calls for one teaspoon, so it probably doesn't matter that much.
Bree finished mixing the cookies and had the first batch ready for the oven when Mom came back. "Oh, Bree, thank you!" said Mom. "I was wondering how I was going to get everything done today."
When the timer went off, Bree eagerly went to the oven and took out the pan. "Oh, Mom, they're flat! They're not mountains."
Mom looked at the cookies. "Are you sure you put in enough baking powder?"
"I couldn't find it," Bree replied. "But it only calls for one teaspoon, so I didn't think it could be that important."
"In this kind of cookie it is. It's what makes them rise into cookie mountains. Maybe we can fix it." Mom got the baking powder and vigorously mixed it into the rest of the batter. "Don't feel bad about it, honey," Mom said when she saw the crestfallen look on Bree's face. "Just remember little things are important."
"Like the little boy's lunch that Jesus used to feed thousands of people?" asked Bree. "We just had that story in Sunday school."
"Right," said Mom. "When we offer anything to Jesus out of love and gratitude for all He's done for us, He will use our gift to bless others, no matter how small it is." Mom smiled at Bree. "Today He used your gift of making these cookies to remind me that He loves me and is with me on busy days."
-Vera M. Hutchcroft
How About You?
Do you feel like the things you do for Jesus are too small to make much of a difference? No matter how small they seem, Jesus can use them to do great things. He can use little things--like carrying in groceries for a neighbor, helping your sister with her homework, or being nice to a new kid at school--to draw more people to Him and help them know how much He loves them. The small things matter to God as much as the big things do.
Today's Key Verse:
Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. (NLT) ( Colossians 3:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Little is big with God
Bible Reading: Ephesians 2:8; Titus 3:3-7
"Mom, I asked my friend Rae if she was a Christian," Sarah said as she and her mother were relaxing on the back porch. "She thinks she is because she goes to church all the time. I told her that didn't make her a Christian, but she didn't believe me. I didn't know what to say."
"It's sometimes hard to convince people that going to church doesn't make them Christians," said Mom, "but don't give up. Try to help her see that it's not what we do that makes us Christians, it's what Jesus did for us when He took our sins upon Himself and died on the cross."
"Okay, Mom. I'll keep praying for Rae and try to help her understand that she needs Jesus, not just a church. It's just hard to know what to say because she thinks she's right."
Sarah's little sister, Emma, left her swing set and walked up to the porch. In her hand she clutched a pretty box. "Mommy, I have some chocolate candy for you," she said, holding out the box.
"Thank you, sweetie," said Mom, taking something from the box.
"You can have one too," Emma told her big sister, passing her the box.
Sarah stretched out her hand to take one. She had seen that the "chocolate" Mom had taken was really a stone, but she decided to play along. "Are these chocolates any good?" Sarah asked, looking at the stone she had taken from the box. "They seem awfully hard. Maybe they're stale."
"They're good chocolates!" Emma insisted. "Look, Sarah!" With a grubby little finger, she pointed to the pictures of big creamy-looking chocolates on the cover of the box. Then she turned and ran down the porch steps.
Sarah laughed. "I hope Emma knows that putting stones inside a chocolate box doesn't make them turn into chocolates!"
"Just like putting a person inside a church doesn't make them a Christian!" said Mom. "Maybe you should tell Rae about Emma's chocolates."
"Good idea!" said Sarah. "Maybe it would help her understand that going to church is great, but we can only become Christians by trusting in Jesus."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you think you're a Christian because you go to church? Attending church is a good thing to do, but it doesn't make you a Christian. The Bible says we can't be saved by anything we do. Jesus, who is perfect, died for the bad things you have done. You need Him to give you His righteousness--His goodness--and make you into a child of God. To be a Christian, you need to trust in Him. (To learn more, click the "Good New!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
He saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. (NIV) (Titus 3:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus saves--church doesn't
Bible Reading: Psalm 37:3-5; 2 Peter 3:18
Michael stood on the lawn, wishing he had someone to play with. "Timmy!" he called loudly, hoping his friend next door would hear him. "Tiiimmmeeee!"
Michael's mom appeared on the back porch. "Go over and knock on Timmy's door, Michael. It's not polite to just yell for him."
"But what if his mom answers?" asked Michael. "What if she doesn't want to be bothered?"
"Oh, Michael, Timmy's mom is a very nice lady. She wouldn't mind answering the door," Mom assured him. "Don't be so shy."
Michael looked at the neighbors' door. Mom was right--he was shy around adults he didn't know well. But knowing that didn't make him feel any braver. I think I'll just play here, he thought when his mom went back in. Maybe Timmy will see me and come out.
Michael wandered behind the house to the tall maple tree where a black squirrel lived. He had named the squirrel Shadow and often tried to get close to watch the little animal get kernels from the ear of corn Dad had nailed to the fence post. At first, Shadow always ran away. Now the squirrel watched with his beady black eyes, but he didn't run until Michael was only a few feet away.
"I think Shadow's starting to trust me," Michael told his mom at lunchtime.
"He's learning you're not there to hurt him," Mom said. "That reminds me of you. You're still learning to trust our new neighbor--Timmy's mom. When you know her better, you'll see that she's happy to have you come over. The better you know someone, the easier it is to trust them." Pushing her chair back, Mom stood and took her dishes to the sink. "You know, Michael, it's like that in our relationship with God too. The better we get to know Him, the easier it is to trust Him. We get to know God as we read His Word and learn about Jesus, who loves us so much that He gave His life for us." She smiled. "I know I can trust Him to help me through anything."
Michael thought about how Shadow was getting to know him and trust him. I want to be like that with God, he thought. And I want to trust Him to help me not be so shy around Timmy's mom and other adults too.
-Judith K. Boogaart
How About You?
Are you learning to trust God? Do you turn to Him in difficult situations and depend on Him to help you? The more you get to know Jesus, the more you'll be able to trust Him in the situations you face each day. Your Bible tells you all about Him. Read it on your own, learn more about what it says at church, and talk to Jesus every day to get to know Him better.
Today's Key Verse:
Blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord. (NIV) (Psalm 40:4)
Today's Key Thought:
Know and trust God
Bible Reading: Acts 9:10-15, 36-39
"Grandpa, I hate my name," Edna told her grandfather one day.
"Well now, I think Edna is a pretty name," said Grandpa. "Your mom named you after your great-grandmother, whom she dearly loved."
"But I have to go to school with kids who have names like Braxton and Jacob. I wish I had a name that wasn't so old-fashioned!"
"A lot of babies are being given old-fashioned names these days," Grandpa told her. "Take the name Jacob, for instance. That's a popular name now, but it's a very old one. Remember Jacob in the Bible?"
Edna sighed. "Yes, but I still wish I had a different name. I think I'll change it someday. After all, the Bible says a good name should be chosen rather than riches."
Grandpa smiled. "Oh, honey, that verse isn't talking about changing your name! It's talking about what people think of you when they hear your name and think of your character. Like I said, the name Edna reminds your mom of one of the sweetest people she ever knew. And when people who know you hear your name, I'm sure they think of what you're like as a person. So…are you friendly and kind? Are you helpful? Or are you selfish and bitter? Those are the kinds of things people think of." Edna just shrugged. "Tell me," said Grandpa, "what do you think of when you hear the name Braxton? Or the name Jacob?"
"When I hear Braxton, I think of a boy who picks on other kids and calls them names!" Edna answered with a hint of anger. "When I hear the name Jacob, I think of a kid who's really smart. He helps me if I get stuck with a math problem."
"Exactly!" Grandpa nodded. "You didn't mention either one as a boy with an up-to-date name, did you? It was their personalities and the way they treat you that you described. So trust God to help you live in such a way that when people hear the name Edna, they think good thoughts. Since you know Jesus, you have His love in your heart, and you can share it with others in how you treat them. Then you'll have a good name even if it's one you might not have chosen for yourself."
Edna nodded thoughtfully. "When people hear my name, I want them to think of Jesus."
-Sara L. Nelson
How About You?
What do people think of when they hear your name? Today's Bible reading gives two examples of very different reactions to a name. The name Saul brought thoughts of evil deeds, while the name Dorcas brought thoughts of good ones. Does your name give people good thoughts or bad thoughts? Trust God to help you live your life so that the mention of your name will make people think of someone who shows others the love of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches. (NKJV) (Proverbs 22:1)
Today's Key Thought:
You can have a good name
Bible Reading: Acts 22:1-15
Matías ran into the house. "I'm going over to Nathan's, Mom." He stopped before going back outside. "If I get a chance to talk to him about Jesus, what should I say? How can I get him to understand?"
"Well," said Mom, "how did you help your brothers know how to paint the shed yesterday? Did you tell them how some of the world's great artists mix colors? Or did you explain various types of strokes and painting techniques?"
"Of course not." Matías gave her a puzzled look. "I just told them what Dad told me, and I showed them how I did it."
Mom nodded. "You started with your own experience, didn't you? Why not do that when you talk to Nathan about Jesus? Tell him how you became a Christian. That's what the apostle Paul often did."
"Okay, Mom," said Matías. "I'll try."
When Matías got to Nathan's house, his friend greeted him at the door. "Hi, Matías," said Nathan. "Come see the model airplane I've been working on."
Matías looked at the model. "Wow! That's cool! Where did you get it?"
"Uncle Joel gave it to me. He was going to help me build it, but he'd been sick for quite a while, and he died before we could get started." Nathan looked at the floor. "I sure miss him."
"I'm sorry your uncle died," said Matías.
"Me too." Nathan sniffed. "He knew he probably wouldn't ever be well again, and he told me a long time ago that he knew he'd go to heaven to be with Jesus when he died. I wonder how he could be so sure."
"I know I'm going to go be with Jesus when I die too," Matías replied.
"You do?" said Nathan. "How?"
"Well, when I was younger…" Matías still wasn't quite sure what to say, but he went on to explain as well as he could what had happened to him. "I learned that we're all sinners, and there's nothing we can do to make up for the bad things we've done. But the Bible says that Jesus loves us so much He died for our sins and then rose from the dead! I trusted Him to save me, and if you trust in Him, you'll have eternal life with Him too."
-Tom VandenBerg
How About You?
Do you tell your friends what you know about Jesus? Don't worry about explaining all the doctrines of the church. Just tell them what Jesus did for you. The words in today's Key Verse were God's instructions to the apostle Paul. Paul shared the good news of Jesus by telling what had happened to him. You can do that too.
Today's Key Verse:
You will be his witness to all people. You will tell them what you have seen and heard. (ERV) (Acts 22:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Tell how Jesus saved you
Bible Reading: Acts 1:8; Ephesians 4:11-13
"Looks good, guys." Matías stood back and surveyed the side of the shed he and his younger brothers, Luis and Vincent, were painting. Matías was in charge of the project. He'd helped his dad paint their house before, so he was showing his brothers how it should be done. "Be sure to brush the paint out nice and smooth," said Matías.
As they worked, the boys started talking about their friend Nathan who lived nearby. "Nathan asked me about our church and what we believe," said Vincent. "I didn't really know what to say. I was afraid I might not answer right, so I gave him my Sunday school teacher's email address."
"Maybe we should ask Pastor Garcia to talk to him," said Matías.
"Yeah," agreed Luis. "It's the pastor's job to tell people about Jesus."
Soon Mom came out with a tray of cookies and lemonade. "Matías," she said as the boys sat down to enjoy their snack, "since you're the only one who's painted before and know how to do it, why didn't Dad tell you to paint the shed alone?"
"All alone!" Matías shook his head. "This job is way too big for one person."
"Dad figured Matías could teach Vincent and me to paint," Luis said. "Aren't we doing okay?"
"Oh, you're doing fine," Mom assured him. "But I overheard you say that it's the pastor's job to tell people about Jesus. He should do that, of course, but that job is also way too big for one person."
"But we're not trained to do that like Pastor Garcia is," Vincent protested.
"No, and it's good to get all the training you can. Pastors and teachers and other Christians can help equip you to share your faith with others--just like Matías showed the two of you how to paint the shed. Learn from them, but don't wait for them to do all the work."
"So you're saying we should answer some of Nathan's questions ourselves?" asked Matías.
"That's right," Mom said. "It's good to refer him to mature Christians, but you should also talk to him about Jesus yourselves. God put pastors, teachers, and other mature Christians in your life so you can learn from them, but He'll also help you learn from experience--from simply doing it."
-Tom VandenBerg
How About You?
Do you realize it's not just your pastor's job to tell people about Jesus? If you know Jesus as your Savior, it's your job too! Do you think you're too young and unprepared to do that? God has put people in your life to help you. Listen carefully when your pastor, Sunday school teacher, or other Christians explain Scripture and teach you how you can share your faith with others. Then trust Jesus to help you tell others what He's done for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Christ himself gave…pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:11-12)
Today's Key Thought:
Learn to share your faith
Bible Reading: Lamentations 3:22-23; 1 John 1:7-9
Olivia stared around her new bedroom in dismay. Not only were the moving boxes from their old house scattered and stacked messily around the room, but the walls were also covered in pencil drawings from the previous owner's children. Doodles, words, and plain old scribbles adorned the white walls all around her new room.
Mom always told her, "If you want something, work hard for it!" So Olivia found a washcloth in one of the moving boxes, soaked it with water, and set to work on her walls. If she worked hard, she could have it clean by supper!
After what felt like hours of vigorous scrubbing, Olivia sat back to examine her work. It was too much. "Mom!" she called out in frustration.
Mom poked her head in. "Olivia, did you call me? And do you want tacos or hamburgers for dinner? Dad's picking it up."
"Mom," Olivia said in exhaustion, "I've been scrubbing this wall as hard as I can! And I only got a tiny bit of the pencil off. It's too much work!"
Mom came in and sat down on the floor beside Olivia to give her a hug. "Oh, you worked so hard! But Olivia, we're going to paint over these walls. We're going to the hardware store next week to pick out a new color for your walls, and we'll cover up all those pencil markings."
"Thank goodness." Olivia sighed in relief. "There's no way I could get it all off!"
Mom looked thoughtful. "Liv, that's just like what Jesus does for us. We come to Him with all kinds of sin, and He doesn't tell us we have to scrub it all off. Instead, He removes our sin and covers us with His righteousness!"
"I don't think I could get rid of my sin on my own," Olivia admitted, thinking about all the work she'd put into scrubbing her walls.
"Nobody could," Mom said. "But Jesus gives us a fresh start every day. Even when we sin and go against God, He wants to forgive us and help us start over."
"That would be like getting a new coat of paint every day!" Olivia laughed. "Yes, please! Oh, and tacos would be great." She grinned at her mom and started unpacking her boxes.
-Sydney Apperson
How About You?
Are you trying to scrub away the sin in your life? Trying to get rid of your sins by yourself can be exhausting, and it won't work anyway. You can't clean away the wrong things you've done, but Jesus can. He wants to give you a fresh start. Because of His death on the cross and His resurrection, those who trust in Him are covered in His righteousness, or goodness, and He offers us forgiveness whenever we sin. He renews us with new strength every day.
Today's Key Verse:
In him [Jesus] We have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace. (NIV) (Ephesians 1:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus renews us every day
Bible Reading: Psalm 40:1-5
When Brody got home from school on his birthday, Dad winked and said, "Head out to the back porch. There's a special treat waiting for you on the picnic table."
Brody ran outside as quickly as he could. The picnic table held two paper plates and a large empty platter smeared with icing. Brody frowned. "Hey, Dad?"
Dad came out to the porch. "Yeah?"
"Is this platter supposed to be empty?"
Dad's forehead wrinkled, and he scratched his chin. "What in the world…"
Brody looked under the picnic table. A few crumbs sprinkled the ground. He swallowed. "It was my birthday cake, wasn't it?"
"It was. But where did it go?"
Brody didn't want to throw a fit on his birthday. He was a year older. He was supposed to be more mature. But his eyes burned. He wiped his hand under his eyes, determined not to let tears fall. "We have to solve this mystery."
The crumbs beneath the table led down the porch and into the yard, leaving a faint trail. Brody and his dad followed them to the edge of the backyard where the woods began. Not too far away, in the middle of the trees, movement caught Brody's eye. "Dad, look!" he whispered. They watched as a black bear devoured the last piece of Brody's cake. Then it scrambled into the woods.
Brody's disappointment faded. His laughter started small at first, but then increased until tears streamed down his cheeks. "A bear ate my birthday cake!"
Dad laughed too. "Don't worry, Brody," he said. "The day's not over. We'll still get you a birthday treat."
"It's okay, Dad," Brody said. "I've always wanted to see a bear--and today one came into our backyard! God gave me the best birthday gift ever."
Dad chuckled. "It's probably not the birthday gift you were expecting, but God loves to give His children gifts. He gave us the best gift of all--His Son, Jesus. And He gives us other gifts and blessings to remind us of His love."
Brody smiled, thinking of how God cared about him enough to give him this wonderful surprise. And Brody knew no birthday cake would ever amount to the love God gave him each and every day.
-Becca Wierwille
How About You?
Where have you noticed God's love lately? We often get so caught up in what we want that we forget to notice the ways God shows us His love in everyday, ordinary moments. We are God's beloved children. He is always thinking of us and loving us. He fills our lives with gifts that point to His greatest gift of all--Jesus. How can we pay more attention to the gifts He has given us?
Today's Key Verse:
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father. (NIV) (James 1:17 )
Today's Key Thought:
Open your eyes to God's gifts
Bible Reading: Acts 26:26-29
"Hey, Sawyer!" Cameron called down the hallway to his friend. Sawyer opened his locker and waited as Cameron hurried to talk to him. "I've been meaning to ask you--do you want to play ball with my church team?"
"Some other guys asked me to play with them," Sawyer said, pulling books from his locker. "I'm gonna be the pitcher on their team."
"But you should play on my team!" said Cameron. "We're friends. The guys from church really want you to play with us too."
Sawyer slammed the locker shut. "Yeah, and if I do, they'll want me to come to church with them," he grumbled. "To tell you the truth, that's why I'd rather play with the other guys. I don't want to hear about all that church and Jesus stuff!"
As he spoke, a noisy group of boys rushed down the hall toward Cameron and Sawyer. "Hey, Cameron," called the tall boy in the lead. "Sawyer here is going to be on our baseball team. Want to play with us too? We joined a Sunday morning league. How about it?"
"Thanks," said Cameron, "but I, uh…"
"He goes to church on Sunday mornings," Sawyer interjected.
"Cameron goes to church? Now isn't that sweet?" said a boy in a blue shirt, and the others began to laugh as they turned to leave.
Cameron swallowed hard. "C'mon, Sawyer. Play with our team. Please? I think you'd enjoy getting to know some of the guys I go to church with."
Sawyer shook his head. "This is my big chance to pitch. It might be the only chance I'll ever get."
"Come on. Let's go!" called one of the boys. Sawyer pulled his baseball cap on and joined the others heading for the exit, laughing and joking.
As Cameron stood in the quiet hallway, Sawyer's words rang in his ears like a loud echo: It might be the only chance I'll ever get. Cameron turned and started home. Dear Jesus, he prayed, I was hoping this would be my big chance to help Sawyer meet more Christians who could help him see what You're like, but it didn't work. Please give me more opportunities to help Sawyer know more about You and how much You love him. Please give him another chance to trust in You.
-Susan I. Zampich
How About You?
Have you trusted in Jesus? He invites you to do that today. You've been given a chance to know Him as your Savior. Will you take advantage of it? He is patient and often gives people many opportunities to trust in Him, but you don't know what will happen from one day--or one moment--to the next. Don't miss this chance to come to Jesus. Trust Him as your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Now is the right time! See! Now is the day to be saved. (NLV) (2 Corinthians 6:2 )
Today's Key Thought:
Trust in Jesus now
Bible Reading: Colossians 3:8-16
Looking into her mother's bedroom, Kalina saw piles of old clothes and jewelry scattered everywhere. "I'm cleaning out my closet," Mom explained. "Why keep clothes and jewelry I never wear? I thought I'd donate them to the thrift store."
"Wow!" said Kalina. "Want some help packing it up?"
"Sure--but why don't you go through some of your things too?" suggested Mom. "Get rid of what you don't use." Kalina frowned. "Go on," said Mom. "Some of your clothes have gotten too small and should be replaced."
Kalina brightened. "Replaced? What a great idea!" She left and returned a little later with a big box. "Look, Mom!" she said as she pulled out an old stuffed bear. "There's hardly any stuffing left inside. And this sweatshirt is three sizes too small for me now." Together she and Mom sorted through the rest of the things.
At dinner, Kalina told her dad about all the things they found to get rid of. "You should probably get rid of some junk too," she said. "I bet you haven't dumped stuff for ages."
Dad grinned. "It hasn't been that long. In fact, I got rid of a lot of junk not too long ago--right after I was saved, actually. I got rid of some old bad habits."
"Dad! That's not the same as cleaning out your closet," Kalina said.
"In a way it is," said Dad. "Those habits don't fit who I am anymore, so why keep them?"
"Well, I was saved when I was just a little girl," Kalina replied. "I didn't really have any bad habits to get rid of."
"No?" Mom's brows went up. "You used to tell a lot of lies, remember?"
"Oh yeah." Kalina blushed. "I forgot about that. I used to get mad easily too. I guess I did have some junk to get rid of--I still do sometimes."
"We all need to check ourselves daily to see if the way we act and treat others shows we belong to Jesus," said Dad. "When we trusted in Him, He made us new people, and we want our lives to show that. We need to depend on Him to help us replace bad habits with good ones that help us grow in our relationship with Him and show others His love."
-Vicki L. Reinhardt
How About You?
Are you hanging on to old bad habits that you should throw away? Cheating? Lying? Selfishness? An unforgiving spirit? When you trusted in Jesus, He made you a new person, and those bad habits don't belong in your life anymore. Get rid of bad habits and make room for good ones that fit who you are in Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (NLT) (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Throw out bad habits
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:23-24; 1 John 1:5-9
"I didn't try to do it!" Connor told his sister when her card tower toppled over after he ran by too fast and bumped the edge of the table.
Sophia glared at him. "Mom would tell you to apologize."
"But Mom's not here." Connor hurried away and pulled on his shoes, trying to ignore the guilt he felt over how he was acting.
His best friend Griffin lived next door, and Connor was looking forward to spending the day with him. Griffin's dad was getting off work early to take them to the aquarium.
"My dad just called," Griffin said with a frown when Connor stepped into the house. "He might not make it on time."
"What?" Connor's heart deflated. "But we've been looking forward to this forever."
"I know." Griffin sighed. "We can still hang out if you want."
It wasn't as fun as going to the aquarium, but Connor followed his friend to the driveway to shoot some hoops. They'd been playing for a while when Griffin's dad's car pulled into the driveway. Mr. Jackson got out and made his way over to them. "I'm sorry, boys," he said. "I really wanted to get back in time to take you to the aquarium, but something came up."
Griffin sighed. "It's okay, Dad."
Mr. Jackson turned toward Connor. "I'm sorry. Will you accept my apology?"
"Sure. I forgive you." Connor's brows knitted together. "I didn't know adults apologized."
Mr. Jackson smiled. "Maybe we don't as much as we should, but I know I feel a lot better when I do. Jesus forgives me whenever I mess up, and I always hope that whoever I've wronged will too. Apologizing shows that we care about our relationship with that person and are sorry we hurt them."
Connor thought of Sophia and her card tower. He had been feeling bad about that since he'd run out of the house. "I think I need to go home now," he told Griffin and his dad.
Sophia was in the living room, and Connor sat down beside her. "I'm sorry about your tower."
"It's okay," Sophia said.
"I can help you build a new one if you want," Connor offered.
His sister's eyes brightened. "Really?"
"Sure," Connor said. "With us working together, we can make it taller than ever.
-Bethany Acker
How About You?
Do you apologize when you know you've wronged someone? Isn't it amazing to know that Jesus will forgive you each time you come to Him and confess what you have done wrong? He died for our sins so we could have a relationship with Him, and He cares about the relationships we have with others. When you do something that hurts someone, apologize and ask for their forgiveness too.
Today's Key Verse:
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (NIV) (1 John 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Apologies are important
Bible Reading: Mark 12:28-33; John 13:34-35
"There's a new girl in my class," Nuri remarked as she helped clear the table. "Her name is Elizabeth--and that's what she wants to be called. Elizabeth."
Mom looked up from loading the dishwasher. "I hope you were friendly. Remember how it feels to start at a new school?"
"Yeah, but she's so stuck-up, Mom," Nuri said. "We asked if she has a nickname, and she said if anybody calls her anything but Elizabeth, she won't answer. And she kept talking about the big, wonderful house her family moved into."
The back door burst open. "Look what I found! Isn't he cute?" Nuri's brother Tae set a wet, muddy kitten down on the kitchen floor.
"Tae, get that cat out of the kitchen," Mom said. "He's filthy! Where did you find him?"
Tae picked up the frightened, shivering animal. "He's been hanging around Blake's house. I'm sure he doesn't belong to anybody. Can I keep him, Mom? He won't be any trouble."
"No trouble?" Mom laughed and rolled her eyes. "Right, no trouble at all!"
Tae jumped up and down. "We can keep him?"
"I didn't say that. A kitten needs attention every day. You'd have to take care of him whether you want to or not--he'd be your responsibility. Are you willing to do that?" Both kids nodded eagerly. "All right," Mom said. "You can keep him. I'll make an appointment with the vet."
After they took the kitten to the vet for a checkup, Tae and Nuri gave their new pet a bath. "He certainly looks better now," said Mom, "but he'll need care every day."
"We know," said Nuri as the kitten snuggled into her lap. "All he needed was some tender, loving care. My teacher calls that TLC."
"Hmm," Mom murmured. "Maybe that's what the new girl in your class needs too. She seems to be trying hard to make an impression. Maybe she needs a friend." Mom leaned over and stroked the kitten's head. "You've been a good friend to this kitten. Your tender, loving care reminds me of the way Jesus loves and cares for us. Maybe you could show His love to Elizabeth by being her friend too."
Nuri was quiet for a moment. Then she nodded. "Okay. I'll try to be a friend to her."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you know someone who needs TLC--tender, loving care? Sometimes people who seem stuck-up or mean are really just lonely and in need of a friend. Jesus always treats us with tender, loving care--even when we're not nice. You can show His love to others by giving them some TLC when they need it and being a friend to them.
Today's Key Verse:
I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. (NLT) (John 13:34)
Today's Key Thought:
Treat others with love
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:50-57
"Get away! Get away!" Haven swung her arms wildly as a wasp buzzed round and round her head. "Mom! That bee is going to get me!"
Haven dashed toward her mom, who was working in the flower garden. Mom held out her arms, and Haven rushed into them and hid her face against
her mother. The angry bee followed.
"Stand still, and maybe he'll leave us alone," Mom said, hugging Haven close. But the wasp seemed determined to find a victim. As Mom brushed the bee away from Haven, it landed on her own bare arm. "Ow!" Mom exclaimed with a gasp. She instinctively slapped at the wasp, and it fell to the ground. Mom quickly stepped on it. "It's okay, honey," she said to Haven. "You don't need to be afraid of the bee anymore. It stung me, but I killed it."
Haven lifted her head and looked at the welt on her mother's arm. "Oh, Mom! The bee stung you instead of me! Does it hurt bad?"
"Well, it doesn't feel very good," said Mom with a laugh. "But I'd rather have a wasp sting me than have it sting you."
They went into the house, and Haven spoke thoughtfully as Mom put ice on her stung arm. "In my class at church last week, my teacher said Jesus took the punishment for all our sins. I didn't get it then, but I think I do now. Just like you're suffering for me, Jesus did too--only more."
Mom nodded. "Jesus suffered and died on the cross to save us from sin and the eternal punishment it brings--death. When we trust Him as our Savior, He forgives our sins and gives us eternal life."
"I want to ask Jesus to save me," Haven said softly.
Mom put an arm around her. "I'll pray with you. Let's talk to Jesus right now." The bee sting was forgotten while Haven and her mom prayed and then read some verses about Jesus's sacrifice.
"Look, Mom! This one is perfect!" Haven pointed to a line in her Bible. "O death, where is your sting? O death, where is your victory? The sting of death is sin, and the strength of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Did you know that Jesus took the punishment you deserve for the wrong, hurtful things you do? When you trust Him as your Savior, you no longer need to fear death because He conquered the sting of sin and death when He died on the cross and rose again. Trust Him to save you from death's sting. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
The sting of death is sin…but thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 15:56-57)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus took your punishment
Bible Reading: Psalm 91:1-4; Zephaniah 3:17; Romans 8:38-39
Madison loved walking down to the pond with her mom and watching the ducks. She especially enjoyed watching the mama duck with her ducklings. She loved how they always seemed to swim in a row right behind their mama--cute little brown and yellow fuzzballs.
Madison wished that just once she could catch one of the ducklings and hold it, but the mama duck wouldn't let her get close. "Why won't the mama duck let me hold one of her ducklings?" Madison asked her mom.
"Madison, you know you shouldn't try to touch wild animals," Mom told her. "The mama duck knows that too. She doesn't want anything to happen to one of her babies. She's protecting them, just like Dad and I watch out for you." Mom squeezed Madison's shoulder. "Did you know that the Bible tells us we're protected under God's wings? That's a beautiful illustration that helps us understand how much God loves us."
Madison sat with her mom and watched the ducks for a while longer. On the walk back, she jumped in line behind her mom and waddled like a little duck. She and Mom giggled the rest of the way home.
"What are you two giggling about?" Dad asked when they walked in the door.
"We're being little ducks--waddle, waddle!" Madison replied. "Dad, did you know that there's a Bible verse that talks about God protecting us under His wings? Now every time I see the mama duck protecting her ducklings, I'll think of God's protection for me."
Dad smiled. "I love how God gives us such great illustrations in the Bible. His Word is full of verses that show us how much He loves us and how He is always watching over us."
Madison nodded. "Sometimes I can hardly believe how much God loves me. He even loves me when I mess up."
"That's right," said Dad. "Jesus died for us so our sins could be forgiven, and He is always with us, no matter what."
That night, after Madison went to bed, she prayed and thanked the Lord for loving her so much and for always being with her. She also thanked Him for creating such cute little baby ducks. Then she fell asleep with a smile on her face.
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you ever watched a mama duck and her ducklings? The mama takes great care in protecting her babies, and the babies always make sure they follow right behind her. God takes great care in protecting us too. Jesus died and rose again to save us from sin and death, and He promises to always watch over us. Trust Him, knowing you are truly loved and cared for.
Today's Key Verse:
He will cover you with his feathers. He will shelter you with his wings. His faithful promises are your armor and protection. (NLT) (Psalm 91:4)
Today's Key Thought:
God loves you and protects you
Bible Reading: Matthew 13:44-46; Philippians 3:7-11
"Ick!" Henry coughed as a ball of dust landed on his face. Just a little longer and all this work would be worthwhile. He gave the shelf one last wipe with the cloth and went in search of Mrs. Heathson. "All done!" he said.
"The house looks like new!" said Mrs. Heathson. She handed Henry two twenty-dollar bills. "What are you going to do with all that money?" she asked.
Henry grinned. "I finally have enough money for the new bike I want!" He stuffed the forty dollars into the pocket of his jeans. "I've been working and selling stuff to save up money. I sold some of my video games to my friend Lee, and my car racing set to Lee's brother."
"Won't you miss your old things?" asked Mrs. Heathson.
"Nope!" said Henry. "That bike is worth more to me than video games or toy cars."
Back home, Henry found his older sister Jane reading her Bible in the living room. "I thought you were going to watch that new movie you wanted to see," said Henry.
Jane shrugged. "I was going to, but then I realized I hadn't read my Bible yet today."
"But you really wanted to see that movie!" said Henry.
"Yeah," said Jane. "But I can watch it later. I decided spending time with Jesus was more important."
"You just made me realize something." Henry sat down on the couch. "God is like a bike!"
Jane looked lost. "How in the world is God like a bike?"
"Well, I've been selling my toys and games--and getting choked by dust balls--so I can get that new bike I've been wanting."
"Okay…" Jane still didn't understand.
"That new bike is worth so much to me that I'm willing to give up my toys and games and Saturday afternoons to get it. God's like that too. Worth more than anything else. It's like giving up the movie you wanted to see to spend time with Jesus."
Jane laughed. "You're right. Jesus is worth more than anything--but the gift of eternal life He offers us is free! Nothing this world has to offer compares to eternal life with Jesus." Jane smiled at her brother. "That's why I feel it's so important to spend time with Jesus--so He can remind me of that every day."
-Roxanne Elliott
How About You?
Is there something you want so much you're willing to give up anything to get it? Today's Bible reading says Jesus is like that. Knowing Him and being part of His eternal kingdom is worth more than anything in the whole world. The good news is He offers it to you for free! His gift of eternal life costs you nothing. And the more you get to know Him, the more you'll see His worth.
Today's Key Verse:
I have suffered the loss of all things…that I may gain Christ. (NKJV) ( Philippians 3:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is worth everything
Bible Reading: John 14:26; 16:7-13
"I can stay till four-thirty," Wren told Sara as she looked at her wristwatch. "It's only three twenty-five, so we have over an hour."
"Good!" Sara grinned. "That's a cool watch you've got."
"Yeah," said Wren. "My grandma gave it to me for my birthday."
"Well, what should we do?" asked Sara. "Want to help me with a scrapbook my mom gave me? She gave me stickers too."
"Okay," said Wren. "We have lots of time." Soon the girls had papers, stickers, scissors, pictures, and scraps spread all over the table. They were having a great time when Sara's dad walked through the room. "Hi, girls," he said. "Having fun?"
"Sure are," Wren replied. As he left, she turned to Sara. "Your dad's home early today, isn't he?" She looked at her watch. "It's only three twenty-five." She looked at her watch again. "Three twenty-five! That's what it said before. My watch must have stopped! I've got to get home." Wren grabbed her backpack and ran out the door.
Wren's mom put down her phone as Wren ran into the kitchen. "Sara's dad texted me to let me know you'd be late," Mom told her. The clock on the wall said five-fifteen.
"I'm sorry!" Wren said, holding out her arm. "My watch is broken!"
"That's what Sara's dad said." Mom checked the watch. "It probably just needs a new battery."
Mom was right, and when she got the new battery, Wren was delighted to have her watch running as good as ever. "Batteries always remind me of God's power," Mom said thoughtfully. "The watch needs the battery's power to give the right time, and we need God's power through the Holy Spirit to be able to do the right things."
"And we have the Holy Spirit, don't we?" said Wren.
"Yes," Mom replied. "After He rose from the dead, Jesus told the disciples that when He returned to His Father, the Holy Spirit would come to be with them. He lives within all those who trust Jesus as their Savior, and He helps us grow to be more like Jesus and gives us power to show others His love."
Wren grinned. "And unlike my watch battery, God's power never runs out!"
-Beverly Kenniston
How About You?
Do you have the Holy Spirit's power in your life? You do if you know Jesus as your Savior. When you trusted in Jesus, His Spirit came to live in you so you would always have God's power and presence in your life. The next time you have an opportunity to show someone kindness and point them to Jesus, remember that the Holy Spirit's power is available to you. Trust Him to help you live out His love in your life.
Today's Key Verse:
Do you not know that…the Spirit of God dwells in you? (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 3:16)
Today's Key Thought:
The Holy Spirit gives power to Christians
Bible Reading: John 3:16; 17:2-4; Romans 10:9
"I'm home," Miguel said, coming through the door carrying a tote bag.
"How was church today?" Grandma asked.
"It was good. I liked visiting Oscar's church, but I'll be glad when you're well enough to take me to our church again, Grandma."
"Me too. I'll be better soon and we'll go together again. I'll bet you're hungry."
"Oh, I almost forgot." Miguel opened the tote bag. "Oscar's mom sent us some soup and sandwiches and cookies so you wouldn't have to make lunch." Carefully he set up the lunch for the two of them, along with some lemonade.
"Thank you, Miguel," Grandma said. "That was thoughtful of Oscar's mom." As they ate, she asked, "What did the pastor talk about today?"
Miguel bit into his sandwich. "Mostly turtles."
Grandma was puzzled. "Turtles? Was it the story of Noah's ark?"
"No," said Miguel. "It was about Jesus and turtles and forgiveness and stuff." Then he laughed. "The pastor had a stuffy nose from allergies. He talked about his mother, but every time he said 'Mama' it sounded like this." Miguel pinched his nose and said, "Bob-uh."
Grandma smiled. "Tell me what the pastor said about turtles."
"That was confusing. He said we could all have a turtle life. I thought he'd show us turtle pictures on the overhead screen, but he didn't. I wanted to ask him about it later, but Oscar's mom was ready to leave."
"Are you sure he said you could have a turtle life, Miguel? That doesn't make sense."
"He said if I confess my sins and trust Jesus to save me, He'd forgive my sins and give me a turtle life. But I trusted in Jesus a year ago, and I haven't seen any turtles yet."
Grandma chuckled quietly when she realized what had happened. "Miguel, do you know what the word eternal means?"
"It means forever, right?"
"Yes. Now pinch your nose like you did before and say 'eternal.'"
Miguel held his nose. "Eh-ter-dull."
Grandma nodded. "I think the pastor with his stuffy nose said 'eternal life,' and it sounded like 'a turtle life.'"
When Miguel heard his mistake, he laughed so hard he rolled on the floor. "I still love turtles, but living with Jesus forever in heaven is better!"
-Teresa Ambord
How About You?
Have you been given eternal life with Jesus? The Bible says that our sins--the wrong things we do--lead to death because God must punish sin. But Jesus died on the cross to take that punishment for us and then rose again. Trust in Him, and He will forgive your sins and give you eternal life with Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NKJV) (Romans 6:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust in Jesus and be saved
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:9; 13:9-12
Seth and his parents laughed as they watched Seth's five-year-old brother ride his new bicycle full speed up and down the driveway. The training wheels rattled as Camden tried to imitate a motorcycle rider. He wore his helmet and a pair of ski goggles.
"Camden, it's getting dark," said Dad. "Why don't you take off those goggles?"
"No!" Camden protested. "Motorcycle riders always wear them. I'm a motorcross racer!"
"But it's getting dark," Mom said. "The tinted glass on the goggles keeps you from seeing clearly."
"I can see," Camden insisted. "Watch this!" He turned and raced to the end of the driveway where he made a sharp U-turn. He didn't notice the loose gravel on the cement. The bike tipped and skidded in the gravel, and Camden spilled onto the concrete, scraping his hands and knees. Seth ran to help his brother untangle himself from his bike.
When Mom removed the goggles, Camden saw blood trickling down his leg, and he began to cry. "Come on in with me," said Mom. "Let's get that bandaged up."
After Mom cleaned and bandaged the cut on Camden's leg, they all sat down in the family room. "You know what Camden's accident reminds me of?" asked Seth.
"What?" asked Mom.
"My Sunday school lesson last week," Seth replied. "Camden didn't see the gravel because he was wearing those dark goggles, and Mr. Paul said we don't understand everything about God and what He's doing because we live in a broken world. Mr. Paul said it's like we're looking at life through dark-colored glasses. We don't see all God has planned, and sometimes we mess up and fall along the way because we try to take matters into our own hands instead of trusting Him."
"Good point," said Dad. "We don't realize the greatness of God's love and plan for us."
"Does God love us and fix our hurts like Mommy does?" Camden asked.
Seth and his parents chuckled. "God loves us more than anything!" Dad assured him. "Jesus died to save us, and He's always with us and comforts us when we're hurting. And someday, He will wipe away all our tears!"
Mom nodded. "Someday we'll see more clearly and understand so much more!"
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Do you feel like you don't understand much about life and eternity? That's because you can't clearly see and understand all there is to know about God and what He has planned for His children. Trust His promise that those who know Jesus will someday understand more fully when we see Him face to face. Until then, remember that He loves you and is always with you as He works out His perfect plan.
Today's Key Verse:
Now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then face to face. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 13:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God when you don't understand
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
"That's it! I'm never ever going back to choir again," Savannah sobbed when Grandpa collected her from church. "It was so embarrassing. I was told off for joking around and distracting everyone with my loud, off-key singing." Savannah sniffed. "But the truth is, I wasn't joking around. Why didn't God give me a good singing voice?"
Grandpa fished out a handkerchief and handed it to her, then gave her a hug. Savannah dabbed her eyes as they strolled back to the cottage where they both lived with Grandma.
Savannah had calmed down by the time they got home, and Grandpa gave her some hot chocolate and one of the brownies he'd baked that afternoon. Grandma was still outside, gardening.
"I'm sorry, Grandpa," Savannah said, munching her brownie. "I haven't really been enjoying choir. Singing has been a struggle."
"Everyone has gifts, you know," Grandpa said thoughtfully. "God has provided us all with talents, and some you won't discover until later on. He created us all differently so we can use our skills in church and in the world to help others and show them the love of Jesus. I love baking. Your grandma loves gardening, and you are fantastic at math--your teacher always mentions that at parent-teacher meetings. You've tried the choir, and it isn't right for your skillset, so find something else you love that you can use to help others. Don't give up. God loves you and cherishes you--not because of anything you do but because He created you and sent His Son to die for you."
Later, Grandpa made a mug of tea for Grandma and he and Savannah went outside. "The garden looks amazing," Savannah said as she looked at all the different types of flowers ranging from crimson roses to yellow sunflowers.
Grandma took off her gardening gloves and beamed as she took a sip of tea. "I love gardening. It's a gift God has given me."
"You see?" Grandpa said. "Look at Grandma's beautiful garden. If all the flowers and plants were the same, it would be boring. Church is the same way. Each of us is different and unique with something to offer."
Savannah smiled, silently thanking God that she didn't have to be the same as everyone else and that God loved her and made her unique.
-Cindy Lee
How About You?
Are you sometimes jealous of people's talents? Do you wish you had a particular skill they have? God thinks you're amazing. He loves you so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to repair the broken relationship humans have with Him and give eternal life to all who trust in Him. Our loving Creator made you and blessed you with talents. Rejoice and use your gifts to help others and point them to Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
All of you together are Christ's body, and each of you is a part of it. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 12:27)
Today's Key Thought:
God blesses us with talents
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; Philippians 2:1-2
"I don't think I'm going to church tomorrow," Bryce said. He was lying on the floor in front of the fireplace, watching the flames shoot up toward the chimney. He glanced at his dad to see what his reaction would be.
Dad closed his laptop. "Why is that? We let you stay home last Sunday because you had a sore throat. What is it this time?"
Bryce rolled over on his back. "Dad, I've gone to church all my life. Why do I have to listen to the same things over and over again? It's always the same--sing a bunch of songs and then listen to the sermon." When he saw Dad frown, he quickly added, "I can read my Bible and pray here at home, can't I?"
"Yes, and it's important to do that," said Dad. "But Sunday is a special day to worship with other Christians."
Bryce sighed. "I'll be glad when I'm old enough to do what I want." He pointed to a log sitting next to the fireplace. "There's just one log left, Dad. Should I put it on the fire?"
Dad shook his head. "Just let it burn by itself--over there in the wood carrier."
Bryce stared at him. "Burn in the wood carrier! What are you talking about? That would make a mess! Besides, you know a log won't just start burning by itself." He gave Dad a quizzical look. "I'll add it to the fire, okay?"
Dad chuckled. "Okay. While you do, remember that just like those logs need the heat and flames from the other logs in the fireplace to burn, Christians need the warmth of being with other Christians. God tells us not to neglect getting together with one another. We can grow as we pray and read the Bible on our own, but we also need to spend time with other believers. They need us too--just like those logs that still are burning need reinforcement. As we spend time together worshiping Jesus and learning more about Him, we share the warmth of His love and reinforce one another with His truth."
Bryce reached for the last log. "All right," he said as he added it to the fire. "I'll go to church tomorrow."
-Beverly Kenniston
How About You?
Do you regularly attend church? Do you go willingly? Or do you try to get out of it because you wish you could be doing something else? Just like logs on a fire, you need other believers to shine the light of God's love and truth into your life. When Christians gather together, we can help each other keep growing in our faith. Be thankful for opportunities God gives you to worship and grow with other Christians.
Today's Key Verse:
We must not quit meeting together, as some are doing. No, we need to keep on encouraging each other. (ERV) (Hebrews 10:25)
Today's Key Thought:
Attend church faithfully
Bible Reading: Mark 10:46-52
Destiny and her sister Mazie bounced excitedly at the ticket booth. Mom had been teaching them all month about different sea animals. Now they were taking a field trip to the aquarium to see the animals they had been learning about.
When they entered the aquarium, Destiny pointed to a sign with a dolphin image and an arrow to the right. "Can we please go see the dolphins first?" Destiny begged.
Mom laughed. "Sure!"
When they reached the exhibit, Destiny hurried over and pressed her nose to the glass, watching as the dolphins swirled, twisted, and played. Their powerful tails pumped up and down as the dolphins glided smoothly through the blue water.
An aquarium worker noticed them and walked over. "Are you girls dolphin lovers?"
Destiny nodded. "They're my favorite!"
"Yeah, we've been learning about them at school!" Mazie said.
"Oh really?" the worker asked. "What have you learned?"
"Dolphins are smart!" Mazie said. "They like to play and eat fish."
"Yeah, and they use echolocation to hunt!" Destiny chimed in. "They make clicks that travel through the water as sound waves. When the sound waves hit an object, they bounce back to the dolphin and hit the melon, a part of their forehead that's made up of fluid and fatty tissue. The melon shows the dolphin clear pictures of what's up ahead, like sonar in a submarine."
"It sounds like you know a lot!" the worker said.
On the drive back home, Mom said, "Destiny, why do dolphins need to use echolocation?"
"Sometimes they can't see what's up ahead because it's too dark or murky," Destiny replied.
"Exactly!" said Mom. "That got me thinking about how faith is like echolocation."
"How?" Mazie asked.
"Sometimes things ahead are dark or uncertain. But our faith in Jesus means we can still have confidence God will guide us even when it's hard to see," Mom said. "We know Jesus is with us no matter what because He saved us and promises to be our light in the darkness. We can trust Him to help us."
"And dolphins don't doubt their echolocation," Destiny said. She grinned. "I'm going to be like my favorite animal and trust my echolocation. I'm going to trust Jesus to guide me."
-Olivia Summers
How About You?
Do you ever worry about what the future holds? Just like dolphins, we can be confident even if we can't see what's ahead. The Bible says our faith should guide us, not our sight. We can trust Jesus to lead us the way we should go. When you face an uncertain situation, seek His help by reading your Bible, praying, or talking with a trusted adult. Then trust that God will make His way clear!
Today's Key Verse:
For we walk by faith, not by sight. (NKJV) (2 Corinthians 5:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Live by faith
Bible Reading: Colossians 1:12-16, 19-22; 1 Peter 1:18-19
"There's a video game I want, but I don't have enough money," Graham told his friend Tobias. "I wish I could think of a way to make some extra cash."
"Why not sell me the tires from your old bike?" said Tobias. "I told you I wanted to buy them, and my dad said it was okay."
"Oh, that's right! I forgot," said Graham. "My dad okayed it too, so it's a deal!"
Tobias paid Graham for the tires, and Graham bought his video game. For a while, the boys played the game almost every day.
As the weather turned warmer, Graham and Tobias didn't play inside as much. They began to take bike rides around the neighborhood. One day, Graham ran over a broken bottle and slashed his front tire. "Oh no!" he exclaimed. "This whole tire is ruined! Now what am I going to do?" He frowned. "I guess I should have kept those bike tires I sold to you."
"Well, I only used one, so I'll sell the other back to you," Tobias offered. "I don't need it."
"Really?" asked Graham. "Cool!" So the boys got the tire and went to Graham's house to put it on the bike.
"What happened?" asked Graham's dad when he came home and saw the boys at work.
"My tire got ruined, so I bought this one back from Tobias," Graham explained.
Dad smiled. "You redeemed it. That word is used a lot in the Bible, and what you did with the bike tire is a good example of what it means. 'Redeemed' simply means 'bought back.'"
"But…why is that word used in the Bible?" asked Tobias.
"God created people, so they belonged to Him," Dad explained. "But Satan came and tempted them to sin, and they did. They turned away from God and chose evil instead. So all people became sinners, enslaved to Satan and sin. But when Jesus died on the cross for us, He paid the price to buy us back. When we trust in Him, we no longer belong to Satan, but to God."
Tobias grinned as he looked at the tire on Graham's bike. "I never thought I'd have something in common with an old bike tire--I've been redeemed!"
-Lenora McWhorten
How About You?
Have you been redeemed? Jesus said that anyone who has sinned is a slave to sin (John 8:34). He paid a great price to buy you back out of that slavery and free you from the power of sin and Satan. Trust Him as your Savior today, and you will be redeemed and become a child of God. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
You were redeemed from your empty way of life inherited from your ancestors…with the precious blood of Christ. (CSB) (1 Peter 1:18-19)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus redeems sinners
Bible Reading: Acts 12:5-7, 11-17
"Mom, can I have this?" asked Tayden. "I found it in the garage." He held out a flowerpot containing a dry geranium plant. "At school today, we watched a video about a desert that was bare and brown with only a few cactus plants. Then it rained, and when the sand soaked up the rain, new life sprang up. There were green bushes and even some flowers." Tayden grinned. "I want to see if this plant will come back to life if I water it and take care of it."
"Go ahead," said Mom, so Tayden put the potted plant into a pan of water. After the dry soil absorbed a lot of water, he set the pot on a sunny windowsill. A few days later, he found small green shoots springing out of the stem.
"Remember that dead-looking plant?" Tayden asked his mom. "Come and see it now!" Mom came to look, and together they admired the new growth.
Later that day, Mom got a call from someone at church. "Mr. Matthews had a heart attack," she said when she hung up. "He's in serious condition, and they're asking everyone to pray for him."
"Does it help to have lots of people pray?" Tayden asked. "Or to pray a lot yourself?"
"Well, the Bible tells us to pray--it brings results," said Mom. "Just like you flooded your geranium with water, we need to flood things in our lives with prayer. Do you remember the story in the Bible of how Peter was rescued from prison? His Christian friends spent the night in prayer for him, and we should be faithful in praying for others too."
"If we pray for Mr. Matthews, does that mean God will heal him?" Tayden asked.
"I hope He will, but He may not," said Mom. "But even if God doesn't answer our prayers the way we want Him to, He still uses our prayers to remind people of His love and power and point them to Jesus. The Bible tells us He works through the prayers of His people to do wonderful things. We can trust Him to do that even when things don't go the way we wish they would."
Tayden nodded. "Let's pray for Mr. Matthews right now," he said, and they bowed their heads.
-Nathan Runyon
How About You?
Have you ever joined in a flood of prayer? Perhaps you prayed for someone who was sick or had some other urgent need. Maybe you had an important need and people prayed for you. Remember to talk to Jesus regularly about everything going on in your life, but don't be afraid to ask other believers to join you in a flood of prayer when you need it. God will use your prayers and those of other Christians to do wonderful things.
Today's Key Verse:
The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results. (NLT) (James 5:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Prayer brings results
Bible Reading: John 10:27-30; Romans 10:9-11
Aiden ran as fast as he could, trying to catch the piece of paper he dropped as it was carried by the wind all around the parking lot. He finally retrieved it from underneath a car.
"Why is that piece of paper so important?" his younger sister Alexa asked.
"It's my permission slip for my class field trip. If I don't bring it back signed tomorrow, I won't be able to go," Aiden said as they continued their walk home from school.
"Didn't your teacher hand those out over a month ago?" Alexa asked.
"Well, yeah, and I brought it home but kept forgetting to ask Mom to sign it, and then eventually I forgot all about it and lost it." Aiden tightened his grip on the new permission slip as another gust of wind started blowing, and this time it didn't get out of his hand. "Come on, I don't want to lose this one too!" he said, and the two took off running.
"What's the big hurry?" Mom asked when Aiden and Alexa got home.
"I didn't want to lose this." Aiden handed his mom the wrinkled permission slip.
"Aiden, this is dated for a month ago. Why am I just getting it now?" Mom asked.
"'Cause he lost the first one," Alexa chimed in.
Mom just shook her head, then fished out a pen from her pants pocket and began to fill out the permission slip.
"Aiden, you're lucky you don't need a permission slip to go to heaven, because you would lose that too!" Alexa teased.
"I would not!" Aiden protested.
"Well, neither one of you needs to worry, because getting into heaven doesn't depend on anything we do," Mom said. "It depends on Jesus. He died to save us from sin and rose again, and He's the one who forgives our wrongs and gives us eternal life. Because we trust in Him, He will hold us securely forever--the Bible says none of us will ever slip out of His hand. Eternal life with Jesus is one thing you can never lose." Mom tucked the piece of paper into Aiden's backpack. "Now, make sure you don't lose this permission slip!"
Aiden nodded, and as he headed for his room, he said a silent prayer thanking Jesus for holding him securely in His hands.
-Melissa Yeagle
How About You?
Did you know there is nothing you need to do to have eternal life? Jesus did it all for you. He died for your sins and then rose again so you could be saved and live with Him forever. When you trust in Him, you never have to worry about being lost, because He promises to keep you safe in His hands and never let you go. Trust Him as your Savior today! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
I [Jesus] give them eternal life, and they will never perish. No one will snatch them out of my hand. (CSB) (John 10:28)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus holds us securely
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:33-37; 2 Corinthians 1:17-20
Cora grabbed her backpack and lunch box and scurried out the door. Climbing aboard the bus, she thought about the bag of potato chips her mom had packed for her. They were her favorite snack for morning recess.
When math ended, Cora grabbed her chips and traipsed out to the playground. She and her friend Emmalyn found an empty pair of swings, where they sat chatting and laughing.
A moment later, another girl walked up, followed by three boys from their class who always tagged along. With a flounce of her hair, Jenna marched up to Cora. "Give me some chips," she demanded.
Cora thought about how Jenna normally ignored her unless she had something Jenna wanted. She didn't like the way Jenna insisted on having some of her snack. "No," Cora replied firmly.
Jenna pouted. "Meanie!" she yelled, stomping away. The boys followed.
Later that day, Cora mentioned it to Mom while they were washing dishes. "Do you think I did the right thing?" Cora asked. She wondered if she had been mean, just as Jenna had accused her of acting.
"Well, we know God wants us to give to others in need. But it doesn't sound like Jenna was needy. It sounds like she was demanding you give her something she wanted." Mom handed over a dish towel. "Cora, you know that as God's children, we should show His love to others."
"Yes, Mom, I know. But I'm not sure if I did what God wanted today with Jenna."
"Jesus gives us guidance in the Bible on how we should answer others and keep our word," said Mom. "He tells us to let our 'yes' mean 'yes' and our 'no' mean 'no.'"
"So, we should be honest when we answer?" Cora asked.
"Right. God gives us the freedom to say no. When we needed Him to save us from sin, He showed us His love by answering yes and sending us Jesus. But that doesn't mean Jesus always gives people everything they want, and we don't have to either. Sometimes giving an honest answer of no is the best thing to do."
Cora nodded. "Next time I bring chips for recess, I might share with Jenna. But if I say yes, I promise I'll really mean it."
-Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Do you ever feel pressured to say yes to a request--just to be nice? The Bible says Jesus is God's honest answer of yes to us, and He wants us as His children to show His love to others by answering honestly and keeping our word. If we say yes, we should follow through. Sometimes the best option is to respond with a no. Trust God to help you know the right response in each situation so you can give an honest answer.
Today's Key Verse:
Let your "yes" mean "yes," and your "no" mean "no." (CSB) (Matthew 5:37 )
Today's Key Thought:
Give an honest answer
Bible Reading: Luke 4:1-14
Adam placed the ladder against the garden shed. As he climbed up it, his dad looked up from weeding the garden and hurried over. "Adam! What are you doing up there?"
"Practicing!" Adam called back. "I have to jump off the shed roof at school tomorrow, so I want to try it at home first."
Dad grabbed the end of the ladder. "What did you say you're going to do?"
"I said I have to jump off the roof. It's to prove my faith."
"You'll do no such thing!" said Dad. "You could break a leg. Come down this instant." Adam descended the ladder and sat beside his dad on the grass. "Now," said Dad, "what's this all about?"
Adam hugged his knees. "I was telling some friends at school about Jesus, and they laughed and said it was all baloney. They don't believe there's a God. Then Nick dared me to jump off the roof. He says if I can do it without getting hurt, he'll believe in God! So I'm praying that God will help me jump off the shed safely."
Dad sighed. "Adam, nothing is impossible for God. But when you ask Him for something, you need to make sure it doesn't go against what the Bible says. I don't think jumping off the roof to prove He's real is in line with His Word."
"But Dad, if it would make Nick believe, wouldn't God want me to do it?"
"Last night we read about how Satan tempted Jesus by telling Him to jump down from the highest point of the temple," Dad reminded Adam. "Do you remember Jesus's reply?"
"Um…He said, 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.'"
Dad nodded. "When your friends dare you to do something foolish, you don't have the right to test God either. He tells us to share the good news of Jesus with others, but remember that it's God who changes people's hearts, not us. Jumping off a roof isn't going to make Nick believe in God. I think the best way to help him and the others know that God is real is to pray for them and trust Jesus to help them see His love in you as their friend."
"Okay," said Adam. "If Jesus wouldn't jump off a building, I won't either. I'll tell the guys the jump is off."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Have you ever wanted to do something to try to prove God is real? It doesn't work that way. The Bible tells us not to test God the way Satan did when he tempted Jesus and dared Him to prove who He was. Jesus wants people to know He's real, but not through foolish stunts. He shares the truth about who He is in His Word, the Bible. Point others to His truth and love, and trust Him to do the rest.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus answered…"Do not put the Lord your God to the test." (NIV) (Luke 4:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't test God; trust Him
Bible Reading: James 3:8-14, 17
Liv and her friend Serenity sat down for a snack after school while Liv's little brother Zeke played with his building blocks on the floor.
"Did you see Rachel's new haircut?" Liv asked her friend as her mom set some cookies on the table. "It looks awful!"
"I know!" said Serenity. "She's trying to make her hair look like Bella's, but she can't pull it off. She's always trying to be like Bella. It's so pathetic!"
"Well, she doesn't want to be like Bella when it comes to math," Liv said. "When Miss Potter handed back our quizzes today, I saw Bella's and she got every answer wrong." Liv giggled. "And that quiz was so easy!"
Serenity finished her milk. "Yeah. How can Bella flunk math when we have the dumbest math teacher ever?"
Mom frowned and started to say something when a horn sounded outside. "There's my mom," said Serenity. "I gotta go." As she headed for the door, her foot brushed against Zeke's tall block building, knocking it over. "Oops! Sorry," Serenity muttered as she hurried out.
Zeke's eyes filled with tears. "Mommy, Serenity knocked my building down!"
"I know, honey, but it was an accident. Why don't you build it again?" Mom turned to Liv. "I'm afraid Serenity's not the only one who knocked something down. You've just done the same thing."
"Me?" asked Liv. "I didn't touch Zeke's blocks or anything else!"
"I'm talking about the way you girls talked about your classmates and teacher," said Mom, joining Liv at the table. "You certainly weren't building them up, were you?"
Liv bit into a cookie. "I guess not."
"That block building Zeke made was important to him," said Mom, "but not as important as people are to God. None of us is perfect--we all struggle with different things. But Jesus loves us all so much He died for us! And He builds us up by reminding us of His love and grace and being with us in our struggles. We can do the same for others by building them up with our words--both those we say to them and those we say about them."
Liv nodded. "I need to call Serenity. I want to tell her something nice about each person we knocked down today."
-Vicki L. Reinhardt
How About You?
How do you talk about other people? Do you say nice things about them? Or do you point out their weaknesses and imperfections? Guess what--you're not perfect either! But Jesus loves you so much He was willing to die for you. His words to us are always filled with love, grace, and encouragement. Share His love with others by building them up with your words, not tearing them down.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us pursue what promotes peace and what builds up one another. (CSB) (Romans 14:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Build others up
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:42-44, 54-57; Revelation 21:1-4
Avani threw herself onto her sister Daya's bed. "I miss Daya so much," she sobbed. "I don't see why God let her die after she got hurt in that car accident. He could have healed her!"
Avani's mother wrapped her arms tightly around her daughter. Mom's eyes brimmed with tears. "I miss Daya too," she said, gently wiping the tears from Avani's eyes. "But remember that she was a Christian, so God did heal her when He took her to be with Him. Daya is with Jesus now."
"I know," Avani said, more tears filling her eyes. "But it's hard to picture her in heaven with Jesus. I just keep seeing how she looked in the hospital."
"I want to show you something," said Mom. She left the room. When she came back, she held out a small object. "Do you know what this is?"
Avani took it and nodded. "It's the old locket watch Grandma gave Daya." She pushed the tiny knob on the side, and the cover sprang open. Avani could hear the watch inside ticking softly. "I thought this was smashed in the accident."
"It was," said Mom. "The knob came off and the glass was shattered. The cover wouldn't close, and even the chain was broken. I was going to throw it away, but I could hear ticking, so I knew the clock inside was still working. I took it to a jeweler to see if he could fix it, and he did."
"It looks as good as new," Avani said softly. She smiled a little. "It's like Daya, isn't it, Mom? Her body was broken in the accident and the doctors couldn't fix her, but Daya's soul didn't die. Jesus took her to heaven to be with Him."
"That's right," said Mom. "And one day He will make her like new--just like the jeweler did for the locket. This locket can be broken again, but when God gives Daya her new body, it will be perfect and last forever. When Jesus returns, we'll be given perfect bodies too, and we'll see Daya again." Mom fastened the chain around Avani's neck. "I want you to have this now."
Avani touched the locket. "Whenever I miss Daya, this will remind me that we'll all be together again someday."
-Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Has death taken away someone you love? It's okay to be sad when you miss those who have died. But for a Christian, death means going to be with Jesus. When He comes again, all Christians will be together forever and will be given new bodies that will never die. Knowing that can help when you're sad and miss the person you love.
Today's Key Verse:
Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 15:43)
Today's Key Thought:
Christians will have new bodies
Bible Reading: Psalm 32:8-9; John 10:1-5, 27-28
"Where's Molly, Grandpa?" asked Mason. He had come to spend a week with his grandparents, and he loved to play with Molly, their dog.
In response, Grandpa took a whistle from his back pocket, put it to his mouth, and blew.
"Your whistle must be broken," said Mason. "It doesn't make a sound." As he spoke, Molly came running from the woods behind the barn.
Grandpa laughed. "The whistle isn't broken. It emits a high-pitched sound that can't be heard by human ears, but a dog can hear it plainly. Molly's been trained to respond to the sound of the whistle. It gets her attention every time." Grandpa went up on the porch. "You can play with Molly. I'll sit here a bit and watch."
Mason and Molly raced across the yard. Then Mason threw a ball for Molly to fetch. She brought it back and waited eagerly for him to throw it again. Finally, Mason got tired and went to sit beside Grandpa, and Molly lay down at their feet.
Grandpa took a sip of lemonade. "While I was watching you and Molly play, I was thinking of ways God calls us when He wants our attention."
Mason grinned. "He doesn't use a whistle."
Grandpa shook his head. "No, but He communicates with us in several ways. He speaks to us through the Bible. He uses parents, teachers, pastors, and other Christians to guide us and encourage us. And the Holy Spirit speaks quietly to our hearts."
"How do we know when He's talking to us?" Mason asked.
"Well, I remember the first time I heard God's voice was when I felt the urge to trust in Jesus," Grandpa replied. "Now I know that was the Holy Spirit speaking to my heart. Since then, I've learned to recognize His voice when He reminds me of His truth in the Bible or allows other Christians to point out something in my life that needs to change. As God's children, we should always be sensitive and ready to hear what Jesus says. We need to be like sheep who hear their shepherd's voice and follow him."
Mason reached down and scratched the dog's ears. "Just like Molly does when she hears your whistle."
-Beverly Kenniston
How About You?
Are you listening to God's voice? Has He urged you to turn to Jesus for forgiveness? Has He impressed the truth of His Word, the Bible, on your heart? Has He pricked your conscience through something a parent, teacher, or pastor has said to you? Don't ignore what He's saying to you. Pay attention. Listen to His call and do what He asks. Hear His voice and follow Him.
Today's Key Verse:
My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. (NKJV) (John 10:27)
Today's Key Thought:
Listen to God's voice
Bible Reading: John 3:3; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:8-9
Mrs. Renfro's Sunday school class gathered around the mesh cage. The chrysalis twitched like kitten whiskers. Excited whispers hushed as the first spiny leg pushed out of the cocoon, and soon the butterfly unfolded from its woven bed and fluttered around the cage. "Look!" squealed Mckenzie. "It became a butterfly!"
"How did that happen?" asked Mrs. Renfro. "How does something become something else?"
"Well, the caterpillar built a chrysalis and then turned into a butterfly," said Lucas.
Mrs. Renfro nodded. "What else becomes something different?"
"Cookie dough becomes cookies," Mckenzie said.
"And seeds become plants and flowers," said Jonah.
"Very good. You see, a lot of things become something else," said Mrs. Renfro. "Including us. We became different too."
"Different from what?" asked Mckenzie.
Mrs. Renfro set the cage with the fluttering butterfly down. "Without Jesus's life, death, and resurrection, we would be trapped in our sins. In fact, the Bible calls us enemies of God and slaves to sin. We don't want to love God or love others. We are covered with sin and full of hate."
"How do we become different?" asked Lucas. "What do we have to do?"
"We can't do anything by ourselves. Jesus's love changes us," said Mrs. Renfro. "When you trusted in Him, He gave you His Holy Spirit, and you became something different. You became a child of God. You became someone who loves God and believes His Word." She pointed at the black and orange butterfly. "Just like the chrysalis transforms the caterpillar into a butterfly, Jesus saved you and transformed you. You are washed clean and more beautiful than any butterfly. You became a new creation in Christ Jesus, free from sin and an heir of heaven."
Jonah peered into the mesh. "The butterfly is kind of like a new creation too. Only he's not free."
"Not yet." Mrs. Renfro smiled. "C'mon, class. Let's give this butterfly one more transformation--from a trapped butterfly to a free one."
"Just like we are free because of Jesus," said Mckenzie.
"Exactly," said Mrs. Renfro.
-Cathryn Free
How About You?
Have you been transformed by Jesus? Like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly, we become new people when we put our faith in Jesus. He died for our sins and rose again so we could have His goodness and love in our hearts. Become a new creation today by trusting in Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. (NIV) (1 Peter 1:3 )
Today's Key Thought:
Through Jesus we become children of God
Bible Reading: Jeremiah 31:1-3; Romans 5:6-8; 1 John 3:1
Tad heard the familiar voices even before he saw them. The little boys were singing their favorite song again, and it made Tad smile. As he walked up the front path to their house, two little heads with dark brown hair flung open the door. "Hi!" Josiah and Hudson said, waving to Tad.
Soon their dad appeared behind them. He scooped up his sons in his arms and hugged them tightly. As he did, Tad could hear him whisper in their ears, "I love you and I'm so glad I get to be your dad!"
Josiah's and Hudson's faces glowed at these words, then they started giggling and squirming, so their dad put them down. They started singing again with renewed vigor as they charged down the hall and bounced out of sight.
Pastor Lawrence welcomed Tad into his home with a grin. "I love those two rascals more than they will ever know," he said, laughing. But he didn't have to say it. Tad already knew it from the smile on his face, the joy in his sons' eyes, and the countless times he'd witnessed scenes like this before in Pastor Lawrence's home.
As Tad followed Pastor Lawrence to the living room where other kids were gathered for their weekly youth group meeting, he thought of how God delighted in him as His child. God loves me so much He gave His own Son to save me, and He always welcomes me when I come to Him, Tad thought. Josiah and Hudson know their dad's love for them is huge, and that fills them with joy. Even though he has a busy job as a pastor, they know they have direct access to their dad any time they want. Being near him, they can't help but laugh and sing.
"Thank you, God, for delighting in me and for giving me a glimpse of how much you love me through this family," Tad prayed as he left Pastor Lawrence's home later that night. "Pastor Lawrence's love for his sons isn't perfect, but your love for me is. Knowing that fills me with joy." Tad smiled as he turned the corner with a spring in his step. "It even makes me want to sing!"
-Tad Trygar
How About You?
Have you stopped to think about how much God loves you? He loves you so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for you so you could be His child. Our human love is limited, but our heavenly Father's love for us is perfect. Knowing that fills us with joy! Rejoice in the great love your Father has for you and enjoy being in His presence.
Today's Key Verse:
I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior. (NIV) (Habakkuk 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Joy comes from being loved by the Father
Bible Reading: Psalms 126:3; 147:1-9, 14-18
"Oh no! It looks like rain!" Reid exclaimed, anxiously looking up at the sky from the porch of the vacation cottage his family was renting for spring break.
"It sure does," Mom said. "I think we'd better postpone our picnic on the beach until later in the week."
"But I want to go swimming!" Reid said. As he spoke, raindrops began to fall, and his eyebrows drew together in a frown. Soon rain was pouring down, and Reid groaned in frustration. "My whole day is ruined," he grumbled.
Reid's sister Braelin held a finger to her lips. "Shhh…listen." A clear, pure song came from a treetop. A bird was singing in the rain.
"I don't care about a dumb bird singing. The day is ruined!" Reid shot back. "What good is a vacation if you can't do anything?"
"Why don't you get out one of your games, Reid? We may as well have some fun in spite of the rain," said Dad.
"Fun? Yeah right!" Reid fumed, but he grudgingly went to get a game. Soon he, Braelin, Dad, and Mom were busy playing and laughing.
Suddenly Dad looked up at the clock. "Can you believe it's nearly dinnertime? Why don't we roast hot dogs in the fireplace?"
"We can have a picnic dinner right here," said Mom. "Let's get the fire going and spread a blanket on the floor."
As they ate, Braelin grinned. "This is fun, isn't it, Reid?"
"It's great!" Reid pushed a gooey toasted marshmallow off his stick onto a graham cracker. "The whole day was so much fun that I forgot about the rain. I've been thinking--that bird had the right idea after all. Sorry I got so upset earlier."
"It's okay," said Dad. "It's natural to feel disappointed when plans don't work out. But the rain didn't stop us from enjoying our time together."
"That's right," said Mom. "We got to spend this rainy day together, and that brought us joy. That's a good thing to remember whenever we feel sad or disappointed in life. Even when things are hard, Jesus is with us, and we can always find joy in His presence. That bird was a good example for all of us. There's always a reason to sing--even when it rains."
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Do you sing in the rain? How about when it rains in your life--when things don't go your way? We all have times of disappointment and sadness, but we don't have to go through them alone. Jesus loves you so much He died for you, and He promises to always be with you. When you find joy in His presence and remember all the blessings He has put in your life, you'll always find reasons to sing.
Today's Key Verse:
Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice! (NKJV) (Philippians 4:4)
Today's Key Thought:
Find reasons to sing
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:1-9; 1 John 4:7-12
"Miguel, do you want to play soccer?"
Miguel looked up from his homework. His friend Isaac peeked at him through the screen door. Miguel grinned. "You mean fútbol?" he asked, using the Spanish word for soccer.
Isaac laughed. "No, soccer!"
"Fútbol!"
"Homework!" Mamá pushed through the swinging door from the kitchen. "It's not long until dinner. We're having empanadas."
Miguel's mouth watered as he thought of the fried pockets of pastry with cheesy filling. Then he looked down at his book. "I can finish my homework later, Mamá."
Mamá shook her head. "Homework first. Then dinner. Then fútbol. That's the rule." She went back into the kitchen.
"It's a dumb rule," Miguel muttered. He pushed his book away and slipped outside.
Minutes later, Mamá came outside. "Uh oh," Isaac said.
"I want to play too," Mamá said. "I want to play fútbol." Isaac and Miguel looked at each other. Suddenly, Mamá scooped up the soccer ball and started running away from the boys. She ran out of the front yard and down the street.
"Mamá, wait! Where are you going?" Miguel shouted. "Mamá!"
Mamá stopped running. "What's wrong?" she asked. "I want to play fútbol."
"You're not playing by the rules!" Miguel said.
"Why should I?" Mamá asked.
Miguel tried to catch his breath. "Without rules, fútbol isn't fútbol. You're just running with the ball by yourself."
Mamá nodded. "You're right. Following the rules allows everyone to play the game together. The rules we have in our family are like that too. They help us think about how our actions affect others so we can show each other the love of Jesus instead of only thinking about ourselves." Mamá bounced the soccer ball against her knee. "You know He died for us because we broke His rules, right? And we can show that same kind of love by acting in a way that benefits others and not just ourselves." Mamá smiled and tossed the ball to Miguel.
"Okay, Mamá," Miguel said. "I'll go do my homework."
"And I'll finish dinner," Mamá said. "Let's not keep those empanadas waiting!"
-Hannah Zellers
How About You?
Do you wish you didn't have rules to follow? Remember those rules are there to help everyone get along and live in peace. Rules give us an opportunity to put others first and show them the love of Jesus, who gave His life for the good of everyone who trusts in Him. What rules can you follow today to show others you care about them?
Today's Key Verse:
Dear friends, since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another. (NIV) (1 John 4:11 )
Today's Key Thought:
Love others through your actions
Bible Reading: John 3:16; Romans 6:23; James 5:15
"What are you two working on?" Mom asked as she set grocery bags on the counter.
"Our Sunday school teacher gave us homework," answered Maddie.
Abby, Maddie's best friend, looked up from her project. "But it's fun work," she added.
Mom looked at the kitchen table. Glue sticks, scissors, sheets of tissue paper, a stack of thick white card stock, and gel pens in a variety of colors covered the surface. "What's the assignment?"
Maddie put down the large egg shape she had cut out of card stock. "We're supposed to make invitations for the Easter service on Sunday. Mrs. Miller wants us to hand them out to our neighbors and friends who don't have a church."
Abby also cut out an egg shape. "We decided to make our invitations look like Easter eggs. We'll decorate the front, and on the back we'll write the time and place."
Mom watched as Maddie glued pink and purple tissue paper strips onto her egg, then added sequins down the center of each strip. Abby tore pieces of tissue and covered her paper egg with a mosaic of overlapping colors.
"What a great idea," said Mom. "These beautiful invitations can point people to the cure."
Maddie put her glue stick down. "What cure?"
"Do our neighbors have a disease? Is it Covid?" asked Abby.
Mom smiled. "We were all born with a disease. It's called sin, and it's deadly. Without the cure, this disease ends with death, so Jesus came to save us. He's the cure!"
"Is Jesus like that pink medicine I took for my earache?" asked Maddie.
"Sort of," said Mom. "Only much better."
Abby looked confused. "How do we take Jesus?"
"Remember when you and Maddie both trusted Jesus as your Savior at church camp last summer?" The girls nodded. "When you trusted in Him, He took away your sin," Mom told them. "He forgave you for the wrong things you've done and gave you eternal life. Now you never need to be afraid of death, because even though our bodies die, Jesus promises to raise you from the dead one day, just like He rose again on Easter Sunday."
Maddie picked up her scissors. "I guess we need to make a bunch of these invitations so everyone can know about the cure!"
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Did you know that everyone is born with a disease called sin? You've probably heard a lot about disease and sickness these last few years, but sin is the most serious disease of all. It is deadly, and there is only one cure--Jesus. Those who trust in Him are cleansed of their sin and given eternal life. Trust Him to save you from sin. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then let others know about Jesus so they can be cured too.
Today's Key Verse:
And she will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins. (NKJV) (Matthew 1:21 )
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is the cure for sin
Bible Reading: Psalm 37:5-7; Romans 8:38-39
James watched the red kite soaring in the bright sky. His big brother Michael grinned. "Don't you wish we could take off and fly like that?" Michael asked.
"Yeah!" James grinned back. "But if I were that kite, I wouldn't want the string to hold me down. I'd want to fly away, high above the clouds."
Michael laughed. "But if you broke loose, you'd crash to the ground instead of flying away. Without the string, that kite would just fall down."
James turned to his father. "Would it, Daddy?"
"Yep," said Dad. "If that string broke, or if you let go of it, the kite would soon fall."
"Oh." James's small hands clutched the spool of string, trying to make sure his kite didn't get away.
"You know," Dad mused, "in a way, we're something like that kite. Even though the kite dips and swerves in the gusts of air, the string keeps it from falling. It holds the kite steady in the wind so it can fly high. Jesus does the same thing for us. He holds us steady when things happen in our lives that blow against us."
"You mean bad things, don't you?" said Michael. "Like when I sprained my ankle last month."
Dad nodded. "Or when I lost my job last year."
"Or when I had to miss the last day of kindergarten because I got sick," said James.
Dad smiled and tousled James's hair. "Yes, things like that. Even though difficult things happen in our lives, we can face them knowing Jesus is holding on to us."
"What if Jesus lets us go?" asked James, wide-eyed.
"He'll never do that, James. If you trust in Jesus as your Savior, He'll never let you go," Dad assured him. "He died for our sins and rose again so we could be God's children, and the Bible says that nothing can ever separate us from His love. When hard things happen in our lives, we don't have to be afraid of falling. Jesus will hold us steady and guide us through life's difficulties so we can soar."
-Judith K. Boogaart
How About You?
Are you facing something difficult in your life? Maybe you're struggling in school or a family member is sick, and you feel like you're getting whipped around in a strong wind. No matter how hard that wind blows, know that Jesus is holding on to you. If you know Him as your Savior, you are His child, and the love He has for you will never break. He'll never let you go!
Today's Key Verse:
Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NLT) (Romans 8:39)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus never lets go
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:33-37
"Are you reading your favorite fairy tale again?" Kalea asked her younger sister.
Nani nodded. "Want to hear it?" She cleared her throat and began "reading" the story without even looking at her book. "When Hansel and Gretel woke up, the forest was very dark. 'How will we find our way home?' asked Gretel. She began to cry. Hansel picked up a pebble lying on the pathway. 'Look, Gretel, here are the pebbles I dropped. We can follow them back home."
"I know the story," said Kalea with a grin. "When Mom left for the store, she said to remind you to memorize your Bible verses for church. Have you done that already?"
"Those verses are too hard!" said Nani. "Besides, what good is learning a bunch of verses anyway?"
"Well, for one thing, the Bible shows us who God is and how much He loves us. It tells us what Jesus did to save us and how we should live as we trust and follow Him." Nani continued to pout, so Kalea sat on the sofa beside her little sister. "Think of it like this," she said. "Bible verses hidden in our hearts are like the pebbles Hansel hid in his pocket and used to mark the path that would lead them home. The pebbles showed them the way to go, and verses we memorize help us know the way to go too. When we remember the truth of God's Word and trust Him to help us live it out in our lives, it helps us stay on the right path."
"But it's too hard to memorize verses," said Nani.
"How did you learn the Hansel and Gretel story so well?" Kalea asked.
Nani shrugged. "I guess it's because I read it so much."
"Well, if you read your Bible verses over and over, I bet you'll remember them easily too," said Kalea. "Try it."
Nani got her Bible and curled up on the sofa again. "Make me walk in the path of Your commandments…Make me walk in the path of Your commandments…Make me walk…"
When Mom came home, Nani jumped up and held her Bible behind her back. "Listen, Mom," she said. Then she recited her verses perfectly.
-Lucinda J. Rollings
How About You?
Do you struggle to memorize Bible verses? Scripture you've memorized will often come to your mind when you need it. It can show you what to do when faced with a decision and remind you of God's love and promises in tough times. As you learn the truth of His Word, God will use it to help you grow in your faith and turn away from sin. Try to memorize a verse today. Hide it in your heart so it can guide you on the right path.
Today's Key Verse:
Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Memorize Bible verses
Bible Reading: John 15:9-17
Logan loved pranking his big sister Natalie. Today, he'd sneaked into her room while she was at soccer practice and turned everything upside down. When she got home, he hid in his room, waiting for her reaction.
After several minutes, her scream echoed down the hallway. "Logan!"
Logan fell onto his bed laughing as Natalie stomped in. "Why would you do that to me?" she demanded.
Logan shrugged. "What's the big deal? It's funny!"
"Grrrr!" Natalie balled up her fists.
Mom stepped in. "What's going on?"
"Logan pranked me again. I'm tired of it! Just look at my room!"
Mom shook her head. "Come on, Logan. Let's fix this."
Logan sighed and followed Mom into Natalie's room. Couldn't Natalie take a joke?
Mom watched while Logan flipped Natalie's belongings so they were back to normal. It wasn't so fun this time. No wonder Natalie had been upset--if she was tired after practice, fixing her room would've been a big project.
A knot formed in Logan's stomach. "Mom…I haven't been a good brother."
"Why's that?" asked Mom.
Logan swallowed. "I prank Natalie all the time. It's funny, and it makes me feel popular when I tell stories about it at school. But Natalie and I used to be friends--and now I've ruined it."
"Friendship is powerful," Mom said. "Jesus told His disciples that the best kind of love is when we lay down our lives for our friends."
Logan's eyes widened. "That's what Jesus did. He died so we could live."
"Exactly. If we want to love like Jesus, we can lay down our desires for the sake of our friends."
Logan nodded. He knew he had to lay down his desire to prank Natalie in order to love her better.
When he finished with Natalie's room, he found her in the kitchen. "Natalie… I'm sorry."
She turned. "You are?"
"Yeah. And I want to be friends again. What would you think about that?"
When a joyful smile spread across Natalie's face, Logan knew her answer.
-Becca Wierwille
How About You?
How well do you love the people in your life? Do you think about how your actions will affect them? Or do you just focus on what you want? Jesus said that the greatest kind of love is laying down our lives for our friends. He did that for us when He died on the cross, and we can show that same kind of love to others, even in small ways. Are there desires you need to give up in order to love your family and friends better?
Today's Key Verse:
There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) (John 15:13 )
Today's Key Thought:
Love others like Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 4:6-8; 5:8-9
"What's that, Grandpa?" Rafael pointed to some small cards and pieces of shiny red paper on the kitchen table.
Grandpa smiled. "Grandma found these when she was cleaning the attic the other day. When I was a boy, we used to get these as prizes in cereal boxes--they're something like baseball cards."
"Wow! They're really old!" Rafael was impressed. "What are the shiny red papers for?"
"That's what makes these cards interesting," Grandpa replied. "Look at this one. It's a picture of Babe Ruth." Grandpa showed Rafael the picture of the famous baseball player, then turned the card over. "Now, see this question? It says, 'What was Babe Ruth's real name?' To find the answer, we put this shiny red paper--it's called cellophane--right over the question. Now what do you see?"
"George Herman Ruth," Rafael read. "The question disappeared, and the answer showed up! Cool!"
"Right," said Grandpa. "This cellophane taught me a lesson."
"You mean because you learned Babe Ruth's real name?" Rafael asked.
Grandpa laughed. "Something more important," he said. "When I was young, I knew I was a sinner. I was a bit of a troublemaker, so I was reminded of it often! I'd heard that we all needed to have our sin covered by the blood of Jesus, but I never understood it until my Sunday school teacher brought this very same Babe Ruth card to class one day. 'Someone read the question on the back,' he said as he turned it over. But he had put the red paper over the question, so we told him we could only see the answer. He nodded. 'When the question is covered by the red paper, you can't see it--you just see the answer. And when you trust Jesus as your Savior, your sin is covered by His blood. Then God doesn't see your sin anymore. Instead, He sees you as righteous, or good, and He sees Jesus living in you.' I've never forgotten that."
Rafael nodded thoughtfully. "I'm going to remember it too."
-Phyllis M. Robinson
How About You?
What does God see when He looks at you? Does He see your sins, or are they covered by the blood of Jesus so that God now sees you as righteous? If you trust Jesus as your Savior, your transgressions, or sins, are forgiven. They are covered, and God doesn't see them anymore when He looks at you. If you don't yet know Jesus as your Savior, trust in Him today. Then you will have peace knowing your sins are covered in red. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Blessed is the one whose transgressions are forgiven, whose sins are covered. (NIV) (Psalm 32:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus's blood covers sin
Bible Reading: Matthew 20:1-16; 1 Timothy 2:1-4
Marley ran to the door as soon as she heard her mother come in. "Mom! That movie we put on hold at the library finally came in. Can we watch it tonight?"
"Sure," said Mom. "But let's have dinner first."
They whipped up some spaghetti and meatballs and sat down to eat. "Marley, I want you to start going over to the nursing home a couple times a week to read to Grandma," said Mom. "I wish I could get over there more, but work is just too busy right now. I'll give you the Bible I've been reading to her so you can take over."
Marley scowled. "The Bible? But she's not even a Christian! And she's really old. How could reading the Bible to her make any difference now?"
"Just because she's old doesn't mean it's too late for her to come to Jesus," said Mom. "We can't give up on her. When I asked if I could start reading the Bible to her, she said yes, so I'm hopeful that means God is working to bring her to Him."
Once they cleared the table, Mom got out a big pan and put it on the stove. "How about some popcorn to go with our movie?"
Marley nodded eagerly and watched as Mom heated oil in the pan and added popcorn kernels. Pretty soon the kitchen was full of pops and cracks as the popcorn billowed up in the pan. "I think it's done," said Marley after a long string of popping noises came to an end.
"Not quite," said Mom. She waited another minute before turning off the heat, allowing more kernels to pop. "Some kernels pop right away, but others take longer before they're ready. You don't want to give up on them too quickly." She looked at Marley. "Just like Grandma. The Bible tells us that no matter how young or old someone is, they become a new person when they trust in Jesus, just like these hard little kernels become soft, delicious popcorn. We need to do all we can to share the good news of Jesus with Grandma because she may not have much time left."
Marley nodded. "Okay, I'll go read to her. And I'll pray that hearing God's Word will help her realize how much Jesus loves her."
-Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Have you ever thought it was too late for someone to be saved? Some people trust in Jesus as soon as they hear about Him, but others take longer. God wants everyone to be saved, so He's patient with those who do not yet know Him. We need to be patient too. Keep praying for those you know who aren't Christians and sharing God's love with them. No matter how old you are, it's never too late to trust in Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord…is patient with you, not wanting any to perish but all to come to repentance. (CSB) (2 Peter 3:9 )
Today's Key Thought:
It's never too late to come to Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:7-12
"Grandpa, I have a question." Reese knew her grandpa always liked to talk about God, and she knew he wouldn't mind the question she had on prayer. "When does God hear us?"
Her grandpa's gray eyebrows lifted. "When does God hear us?" He grinned. "When we shout really loud!"
Reese giggled at her grandpa's booming voice. "But that's not how you pray."
"He hears me when I talk like this too." Grandpa lowered his voice to a whisper. "He also hears me when I'm like this." He went quiet.
Reese watched him. "You're praying silently?"
Grandpa nodded. "God hears us all the time. Anywhere we are." He got up and offered his hand. Reese took it and let him lead her outside.
"If I went out into those woods and got lost, God would hear me." Grandpa motioned to the large forest in front of them. "If I traveled to India or France or Australia, God would hear me there," Grandpa said. "He would hear me if I was scared or if I was happy. He would hear me when I was alone or in a crowd of hundreds or thousands of people."
"So," Reese said. "Always?"
Grandpa turned to her with a grin. "You're getting the point."
"No matter where I am or what I'm doing, I can talk to Him and He'll listen?" Reese asked. "Even if I'm quiet, He'll hear me?"
"No matter where you are, how quiet or loud you are, or what you have to say, He'll listen," Grandpa said. "He's never too busy for you."
"Thanks for answering my question," Reese said. "You're always a good listener, Grandpa."
He wrapped his arm around her. "If you think I'm a good listener, God's even better. I try to listen when you talk, but I don't always pay attention to everything you say. God hears every word. He loves you even more than I ever could. He gave us His own Son, Jesus, so we could have a relationship with Him. He cares about everything going on in your life. You can talk to Him anytime."
Reese leaned into him and smiled. She was grateful that her grandpa listened to her, but even happier with his answer. She was glad to know God would hear her anywhere and anytime.
-Bethany Acker
How About You?
When do you talk to God? Do you worry that He won't hear you when others are being noisy around you or when you're in your room alone at night? Do you wonder if He's really listening when you have a lot to say? He loves you and is always listening. He hears your prayers, no matter where you are or what you're doing. Doesn't it feel good to know He always hears you anywhere, anytime?
Today's Key Verse:
Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7)
Today's Key Thought:
God always hears you
Bible Reading: Psalm 103:8-12
As Payton helped his mom clean the living room wall, he couldn't stop thinking about the day before. "I'm really sorry for what I did, Mom."
"Payton," Mom said. "It's over. You're sorry. You've asked for God's forgiveness. Once God has taken care of it, it's gone."
Payton frowned as he scrubbed at the wall. His little sister shouldn't have used it as her canvas. "I shouldn't have stolen that gum. I feel so gross. I never stole before. I never even thought of stealing. But…it was so easy."
"You're going to get tempted to do a lot of things like that." Mom smiled sadly. "And you're going to give in a lot. The important thing is that you never turn from God because of your guilt."
"Wouldn't He rather I do that?"
Mom shook her head. "No. Jesus loves you so much that He wants to wash you clean." She dropped her rag into the soapy bucket. "I think we're going to need something different to clean this wall. Let's take a break and go to the store."
A little while later, Mom started scrubbing again with the special sponge she had bought. "Wow! These really do work." She stepped back from the wall. "Can you even see where your sister's drawings were?"
Payton shook his head. It was like magic.
"That's how Jesus wants to clean you--how He did clean you when you asked for His forgiveness," Mom said. "Now, He wants you to move on. We're not going to keep looking at this wall and thinking about what was there. We're going to see it as new and clean."
"Why would God forgive me?" Payton wasn't ready to let go of what he was feeling.
"Because He loves you. Because Jesus died for your sins so you could be clean." Mom let out a soft laugh. "I'm not going to compare my love of a clean home to His love for you, but I cleaned this wall because I like my home and I like how it looks when it's clean. God loves you, Payton. He cares about you more than anyone ever could. He has forgiven you for your sin, and He wants you to let go of your guilt and shame."
Payton looked at the clean wall. Then he turned to his mom and smiled.
-Emily Acker
How About You?
Have you ever done something that you shouldn't and then felt really guilty about it? Did the guilt follow you even after you asked God for forgiveness? If you've trusted Jesus as your Savior, He has washed your sins away and made you clean. You'll still do things that are wrong sometimes, and when you do, confess them to Him. Then let go of your guilt, knowing you have been forgiven.
Today's Key Verse:
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (NIV) (1 John 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus has washed you clean
Bible Reading: Romans 8:18, 28, 31-39; Revelation 21:4
"Dad, do you know what the biggest rodent in the world is?" Conner asked, looking up from his homework.
"Beavers?" Dad guessed.
"That's what the beavers want you to think," Conner joked. "It's actually capybaras. We're learning about them at school."
"Huh! I've never heard of them," said Dad. "Tell me more."
"Capybaras live in parts of South America and can get up to a hundred and fifty pounds. They are semi-aquatic and can stay underwater for up to five minutes at a time! They are herbivores and live in groups of about ten or more."
"Wow, those sound like some capable critters!"
"Yeah. It's awesome that God made so many cool animals with different features they need to survive." Conner sighed. "But why hasn't God given you what you need, Dad?"
Dad placed his hand on Conner's shoulder. "Conner, I know you're struggling with this diagnosis I just got--we'll all have to lean hard on God to get through this."
"But Dad, it's not fair--your body will just get worse, and you may not even be able to move your arms and legs. I don't understand how you can think God is capable when He's let you down."
"I know it feels like God has let us down, but He hasn't. God never promised us a life free of pain and struggles--in fact, in John 16:33, Jesus said that in this world we will have trouble. The good news is that in Him we can have peace. As children of God, we don't have to fear whatever comes, because He is with us to strengthen, help, and comfort us. Remember, this life is not the end, Conner. God has already provided for our biggest need--He sent His Son to die for our sins and then raised Him from the dead so we could live forever with Him. If He's capable of that, and promises to raise us from the dead one day too, we can trust Him to carry us through anything."
"In heaven, there's no more pain and suffering, right, Dad?"
"Not even any tears--except maybe happy ones," Dad said with a smile.
Conner took a deep breath. "Okay. I know this will be hard, but I'm going to trust that the God who made capybaras is capable of helping us through this too."
-Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Do you ever doubt that God is capable? When we or those we care about go through hard times, it can seem like God isn't there, or even that He is against us. But God loves us so much that He gave us His one and only Son, Jesus, so we could be forgiven for our sins and have eternal life. In everything we experience, He promises to be with us. And one day, He will wipe every tear away.
Today's Key Verse:
I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. (NIV) (Romans 8:18)
Today's Key Thought:
God is capable
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:16; 2 Corinthians 3:1-3; Titus 2:7-10
"Mom, it's just no use," said Mila. "I've tried and tried to get Freya to come to church with us, but she won't."
Mila's twin sister Adison nodded. "And I tried to give her a Bible and some Christian books I thought she'd like, but she won't even look at them."
"I even tried to tell her about Jesus," said Mila. "But she just said, 'Not interested!' She wouldn't even listen to me."
"So how's she ever going to hear the gospel and know that Jesus loves her and died to save her?" asked Adison.
Mom smiled at her daughters. "Well, she has both of you, doesn't she?"
"But, Mom," said Adison, "we just told you--she won't listen to us or read what we give her."
"Well, she may not hear the gospel the way we do--by hearing it in church or by reading the Bible," said Mom. "But I hope she will see it and hear it as she gets to know you better."
The girls looked at each other and frowned. "I don't get it," said Mila.
"You know that some of the New Testament books, called epistles, are actually letters to churches, don't you?" asked Mom.
"Yeah, I think our teacher at church told us that once," said Adison.
Mom nodded. "And all these letters--which are part of God's Word--are inspired by God Himself, right?" The girls nodded. "Well, did you know the Bible also says that each of you is a letter from Christ?" Mom asked.
Both girls raised their eyebrows. "What does that mean?" asked Mila.
"It means that talking isn't the only way to share the gospel," answered Mom. "As people see the way you live, it's like they're reading you. When you live in a way that shows others God's love, you touch people's hearts and make them want to know what makes you different. That may make it possible for you--or someone else--to tell them the good news of Jesus when they're ready to hear it."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you think the only way you can share the gospel is by talking--by telling someone that Jesus died for them? Telling others the good news of Jesus is a very important part of sharing the gospel, but you can also share it in the way you live. Next time a friend refuses to listen when you talk about Jesus, don't be discouraged. Instead, let them see how Jesus has changed your heart through kind words and loving actions. When your friend sees the gospel in action, they may eventually want to hear it in words too.
Today's Key Verse:
You yourselves are our letter, written on our hearts, known and read by everyone. (CSB) (2 Corinthians 3:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Share the gospel in the way you live
Bible Reading: Ephesians 3:14-21; 4:26-27; James 1:19
Jaden slouched through the living room doorway and dropped into a chair next to his mother, who was holding his baby sister Piper. "I have a problem," he said with a sigh. "I'm always losing my temper, and I don't make friends that way."
"No, I'm sure you don't," Mom said as she stood Piper on her feet. "Guess what? Piper took her first step today."
"Really? Good job, Piper!" Jaden held out his arms. "Come here! Walk over to me!"
He and Mom watched as the little girl took a few wobbly steps. Then down she went. Her face puckered, but she crawled to a chair and pulled herself up again. When she tried again, she walked a few more steps before she fell.
"Keep it up, and before you know it, you'll be running races with me!" said Jaden.
Mom smiled. "You know, Jaden, Piper took her first step today, and I think you took a first step too--you admitted that you have a problem."
Jaden sighed. "Yeah, I guess," he said grimly.
"Think of it as learning to walk," said Mom. "You had to learn to walk physically--and look how strong your legs are now!"
Jaden grinned. He loved running.
"Learning to walk takes time and practice," continued Mom. "That's true of learning to walk physically, and it's also true of the Christian walk as you learn to trust God and show others His love. When Piper falls, she has to get up--just as you did. And when you fall in your Christian walk, you need to keep working at it."
"So, if I just keep trying not to lose my temper, I'll get better at it?" Jaden asked.
"Trying isn't enough," Mom told him as she picked up Piper. "Your sister needs us to help her learn to walk, and we need God to help us grow as Christians. You need to look to Him. Remember that because you know Jesus, He's given you the power to turn from sin and respond to others in love instead of anger. Trust Him to give you strength and to help you control your temper--and ask Him to forgive you when you don't."
Jaden nodded. "Okay." He got up and headed for his room. "I'll trust Jesus to help me."
-Harriett A. Durrell
How About You?
Have you admitted that you have a problem--such as losing your temper, acting selfishly, or gossiping about others? Admitting it is the first step toward overcoming it. But don't try to overcome it on your own--admit that you need God's help and look to Him. Jesus has given you the ability to turn from sin and show others His love. Admit your weaknesses to Him and trust Him to give you strength.
Today's Key Verse:
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (NKJV) (Philippians 4:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Admit your weaknesses
Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:5-7
"Oh, Dad!" said Owen. "I don't see why I have to be grounded! Can't I just do some extra chores or something?"
"I'm sorry, Owen," said Dad. "But I think being grounded this time is the best way to help you remember to obey." He patted Owen's shoulder. "I hope you know that I don't enjoy disciplining you. I do it because I love you."
"Yeah, right," Owen mumbled as Dad left.
The following week, Owen came down with a cold and a bad cough. He watched warily as his dad poured a spoonful of medicine for him to take, then gulped it down. "Ugh, it tastes awful! I don't want any more of that!" But during the night, Owen woke up, coughing again. His throat hurt, and he was actually glad when Dad came in with the medicine.
The next morning, Owen felt better. "Last week I was grounded, and this week I was sick. I felt like I'd never get to have fun again. But that medicine really helped. It sure doesn't taste good though!"
"I know," said Dad, "and I know you didn't like the punishment you received for disobeying, but discipline is a lot like bitter medicine--it's meant to make us better."
"I guess so," Owen replied.
"I know being disciplined isn't fun, but it's a sign of love," Dad said. "After all, the Bible says God disciplines us as His children, and He loves us more than anyone! He loves us so much that Jesus took the punishment for our sins Himself when He died on the cross. When we trust in Him as our Savior and become part of God's family, He uses discipline to teach us and help us grow."
"So does that mean you get disciplined sometimes too?" asked Owen.
Dad laughed. "Yes, it does. There have been times in my life when God has allowed me to suffer consequences for my sinful actions. When He has, it helped me realize that I had done that wrong thing because I was looking to the world or to myself for what I thought I needed instead of God. Though it wasn't fun, I was thankful He loved me enough to teach me that lesson."
Owen sighed as Dad poured him more medicine. "Then I guess I should be thankful for discipline too!"
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you enjoy being disciplined? No one does! But the correction you receive from your parents helps you grow into a mature, responsible adult. Disciplining a child for bad behavior is hard for a parent, but it shows their love. God also disciplines His children out of love so we'll learn to trust and obey Him. So don't resent discipline. Instead, be thankful for the loving correction you receive.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord disciplines the one he loves, just as a father disciplines the son in whom he delights. (CSB) (Proverbs 3:12 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be thankful for discipline
Bible Reading: Isaiah 54:10; Jeremiah 31:3; Ephesians 2:4-8; 3:14-19
"Is your water bottle full?" asked Dad, adding two sandwiches to his backpack.
"No, it's empty again," answered Tyson. He turned on the tap and filled his container stamped with a maple leaf to mark his first visit to Canada. Handing it to his dad, he exclaimed, "I can't wait to see Niagara Falls!"
As they exited the hotel, Tyson asked, "We're going to the biggest waterfall, right?"
"Yes, Horseshoe Falls. It's only a short walk so we should get a good spot to see it before our picnic."
Tyson took a few steps on his tiptoes. "I can't see anything yet, but I hear it!" They quickened their pace as the sound of gushing water grew louder.
"I see it!" Tyson exclaimed. He crossed the street with his dad toward the majestic U-shaped waterfall. They found an empty space along the concrete barrier crested with a black metal handrail. Tyson wrapped his fingers around it for a closer look. "Awesome!" He marveled at the white sheets of tumbling water. They crashed into the rocks below with such force that they sprayed him and his dad with a gentle mist.
Dad reached for his camera. He spent a few minutes snapping photos.
"I'm thirsty," announced Tyson. Dad passed him his water bottle. After several sips, Tyson handed it back, saying, "That's enough. I don't want to run out of water for our picnic." He returned to the view. "Dad, what about Niagara Falls? Won't it run out?"
"No. The source is always sending more," replied Dad, stashing his camera. "You know something else that never runs out? God's love for us. The Bible describes God's love as eternal."
"I know what that means!" said Tyson. "God loves us now, and He always will."
"Exactly. God offers us a never-ending supply of love so it's always available."
Watching the spilling water, Tyson added, "It's sort of like how Niagara Falls is never-ending because the water keeps flowing without stopping."
Dad nodded. "That's a good way to say it. God loves us without stopping. The love Jesus pours into our lives each day will never stop flowing. It lasts forever."
-Elena Dee
How About You?
Do you ever stop and think about how much God loves you? Can you list all the blessings in your life? Everything that's good comes from God and shows His great love for you! Jesus died for your sins so you could be saved, and He promises to love you eternally--now and always. As you go through your day, see if you can identify all the ways God shows you His love.
Today's Key Verse:
"For the mountains may move and the hills disappear, but even then my faithful love for you will remain…" says the Lord, who has mercy on you. (NLT) (Isaiah 54:10)
Today's Key Thought:
God's love is eternal
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:35-44
"What's that?" asked Nevaeh when her brother showed her a pale green object dangling from a branch.
"Isn't it cool?" said Dakota. "It's called a chrysalis, and there's a caterpillar in there. Or at least, he used to be a caterpillar."
Nevaeh frowned. "I don't like caterpillars." As she went into the house, she saw her mother wiping tears from her eyes. "What's the matter?" Nevaeh asked.
"I just got a phone call," Mom said softly. "Grandma Carter died."
"Oh no!" Nevaeh burst into tears. "I don't want her to die!"
Mom took her into her arms. "I know, honey. This is a sad day, but we can find comfort in knowing Grandma is in heaven with Jesus."
Nevaeh and Dakota had never known anyone who had died. They were a little nervous when they went with their parents to the funeral home and walked up to the casket where Grandma lay. "She looks like she's asleep," said Nevaeh softly.
The next day, the kids attended the funeral service with their parents, and after the service, they all went to the cemetery.
Nevaeh was quiet as they sat on the patio that afternoon. "I thought Grandma was in heaven, but they put her in the ground," she said at last.
As she spoke, Dakota came over carrying the branch with the chrysalis dangling from it. Only a thin, clear film remained. "Look," he said. "This is just an empty shell now."
Mom nodded. "The caterpillar spun a chrysalis around itself. After a while, it burst open and a beautiful butterfly came out."
"I love butterflies!" said Nevaeh. "They're much more beautiful than caterpillars."
"That's a good example of what has happened to Grandma," said Dad. "Remember how sick she was? She has left her body, and now it's like an empty chrysalis. It was buried in a grave today, and Grandma's soul has gone to be with Jesus. But one day Jesus will resurrect Grandma's body and make it like new. When that happens, Grandma will have a new body that will never get old or sick and will never die. Jesus will give us new bodies then too--bodies that will last forever!"
Just then a butterfly fluttered past Nevaeh's nose. "Look!" she exclaimed. "A caterpillar in his new body."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Has someone you love died? The Bible teaches that those who trust in Jesus go to be with Him when they die. Though their bodies are buried in a grave, they're not in them anymore. One day, when Jesus resurrects all Christians, He will give us wonderful new bodies--bodies much better than the old ones. Just like caterpillars get new bodies as butterflies, Jesus promises to raise Christians' bodies and make them new so they last forever.
Today's Key Verse:
Our bodies are buried in brokenness, but they will be raised in glory. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 15:43)
Today's Key Thought:
Christians will have new bodies
Bible Reading: Psalm 121:1-8; Philippians 4:6-7
Pink and yellow balloons hung around the living room. Blue and lavender streamers twisted their way across the ceiling. A big sign reading "Happy 8th Birthday, Maddie" was hanging over the sofa. Many of Maddie's aunts, uncles, and cousins were already there when Grandpa and Grandma arrived. Grandma immediately went around the room and gave everyone a hug. But Grandpa stood by the door, a lost, confused expression on his face. "Who are these people?" he asked.
"They're your children and grandchildren, dear," said Grandma.
Maddie noticed that Grandma sounded like she was talking to a small child. I guess that's because Grandpa has Alzheimer's disease and forgets a lot of things, she thought. Maddie walked over to her grandpa and slipped her hand into his. "I'm glad you came to my party."
Grandpa looked down at Maddie, and a soft smile spread over his face. He patted her head clumsily, and for a moment she thought he was going to be like he'd always been. But then he said, "Is this your house, little girl?"
"Of course, Grandpa," Maddie replied. "I'm Maddie--remember? You've been here lots of times."
When Maddie and her dad were cleaning the kitchen after the party, Maddie closed the dishwasher door with a bang. "Why does Grandpa have to have Alzheimer's?" she muttered. "I can't think of a single reason why God would let it happen."
"Neither can I," said Dad, and Maddie's eyes widened. "That surprises you, doesn't it?" said Dad. Maddie nodded. "Grandpa's Alzheimer's disease is sad," Dad said, "and just as he often can't understand what's happening around him, we sometimes can't understand why such sad things happen in life. God doesn't ask us to understand, but He promises to be with us in difficult times. Jesus understands our pain and sadness, and He's there to strengthen and comfort us when we're hurting. One day, when He comes again to get rid of sin, sickness, and death forever and make all things new, He will wipe all our tears away."
"So I guess I just have to keep trusting Jesus even when I feel like crying," said Maddie. "He'll help me through it."
"Yes," said Dad. "And He will cry with you."
-Carol J. Brookman
How About You?
Do you wonder why God has allowed something difficult to happen in your life? He doesn't always reveal why things happen, but He wants you to trust Him even when you go through difficult times. Jesus understands what you're going through, and He wants to comfort you and help you. As you trust Him, you'll find that His grace is more than enough. He will carry you through hard times until the day your tears are gone forever.
Today's Key Verse:
My grace is sufficient for you, for my strength is made perfect in weakness. (NKJV) (2 Corinthians 12:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Keep on trusting Jesus
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 31:6; Isaiah 44:21; Luke 12:6-7
"Hi, Grandpa!" exclaimed Maddie on her way to the checkout lane. "Is Grandma here too?" Maddie had come to the supermarket with her dad, who was buying cake mix and ice cream to celebrate her eighth birthday the next day. What's wrong with Grandpa? Maddie wondered. He's staring at me as if he doesn't know me. Maddie noticed that Grandpa had been acting strange lately. She remembered that he'd recently had some medical tests, and Mom had said he was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. She knew that was what caused him to forget a lot of things, but she certainly didn't expect him to ever forget her!
Just then, Grandma appeared. "Robert, I told you to wait by the magazines," she scolded gently. Seeing Maddie, she gave her a quick hug. "Are you all ready for your birthday party?" she asked.
"Party?" asked Grandpa. "Who's having a party?"
"Maddie is. We talked about it at breakfast," said Grandma patiently. "Don't you remember?" She took his arm. "Let's go buy a birthday present for a certain little girl, shall we?" Her eyes twinkled as she smiled at Maddie.
That night, as Mom tucked her into bed, Maddie told her about Grandpa's strange behavior. Mom sighed. "Grandpa isn't well. The disease he has causes him to forget names, dates, places--and sometimes even people he loves."
Maddie swallowed hard. "But Grandpa and I are friends. He said so himself…and friends aren't supposed to forget each other."
"I know, honey," Mom said, giving Maddie a hug. "But friends do sometimes forget--especially if they have certain diseases."
"But I thought I would always be able to count on Grandpa," Maddie said, her eyes welling with tears.
"It's okay to feel sad that Grandpa is sick and his mind doesn't work the way it used to, but just remember that he can't help it when he forgets," said Mom. "Thank God for the good times you had together, and remember that Jesus is always there for both you and Grandpa. Jesus is a friend who sticks even closer than a grandfather, and He will never, ever forget us."
As Maddie snuggled into bed, she thanked Jesus that He would never leave her. And she prayed for her grandpa and asked God to help him remember that Jesus would always be with him too.
-Carol J. Brookman
How About You?
Do you feel sad because someone seems to have forgotten you? Perhaps a friend moved away or a grandparent doesn't seem to remember you anymore. Stop for a moment and thank God that He never forgets His children. Jesus is a friend we can always count on. Talk to Him about the person you miss and ask Him to let them know He's always there for them too.
Today's Key Verse:
There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (NKJV) (Proverbs 18:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus never forgets you
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:7; Psalm 145:1-3; Philippians 2:5-11
Lily was ready to nail the sides of the box together. She held the point of the nail against the wood and tapped the head of it with the hammer. She tapped harder, missed, and hit her thumb. Startled by the pain, she yelled out a word.
"Lily!" Karen, Lily's stepmom, sounded mad. "Never use the name of our Lord like that again!"
Lily could see the blood collecting under her fingernail. "Sorry, it slipped out." She didn't understand what the big deal was. Besides, that really hurt.
Lily was making a keepsake box for her older brother Caden and his fiancée, Zoey. They could keep their special stuff in it, like tickets to their first concert together, or the dried-up flowers Caden had given Zoey for senior prom. Lily had her own keepsake box that her dad had made. She kept memories of her mom in it--some photos, a letter her mom wrote her right before she died, and her mom's turquoise bracelet.
Later that day, Lily was working on her homework at the kitchen table. She muttered a few words about how much she hated math.
"Are you calling to God for help, or just throwing His name around?" Karen asked.
Lily ignored her. Later that evening, Lily was looking through her keepsake box and noticed her mother's bracelet was missing. She immediately thought of her stepsister. "Sadie!" Lily hollered.
"Yeah?" Sadie appeared at the bedroom door. She was wearing the turquoise bracelet.
"That's my mother's bracelet!"
"I was only trying it on."
Lily was furious. "That bracelet is special. You can't wear it around like any old piece of jewelry!"
Karen walked up behind Sadie. "Sadie, you know better than to touch Lily's things."
Sadie took the bracelet off and handed it to Lily. "Sorry, Lily."
Lily nodded and held the bracelet close to her heart.
When Sadie left the room, Karen sat next to Lily. "Things we treasure should be treated with honor and respect, shouldn't they?"
Lily remembered her words from earlier. "Sort of like God's name?"
Karen put her arm around Lily and squeezed. "Yes, like the precious, holy name of our Lord. Jesus loves us so much He died and rose again to conquer sin and death and make us God's children. His name is special, and we should treasure it."
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Are you careful about how you use God's name? His name is precious and holy because it points to His greatness, power, and love. Don't use His name in a careless way. Use it to talk to Him and tell others about Him and to praise and thank Him for all He's done for you.
Today's Key Verse:
He rescued his people and made his agreement with them forever. His name is awesome and holy. (ERV) (Psalm 111:9)
Today's Key Thought:
God's name is precious
Bible Reading: Romans 12:10-18
"Can you help me line up my Noah's ark animals, Liam?" asked Liam's little brother Ethan. He looked at their sister. "You can help too, Maelie."
"Okay." Liam sat down at the table. "Anthony is such a pain," he said as he placed the toy elephants side by side. "He's always talking about his soccer team. Who cares?"
Maelie picked up the pigs. "He's that new kid in your class at church, right? He can't be worse than Mia. She thinks she's so great just because she gets good grades in everything! She won the Bible trivia contest at church last month and is still talking about it." Maelie set the pigs down.
Liam grinned. "Hey! You better not leave your pigs next to Mrs. Noah. I'm sure she won't like the smell!"
Maelie giggled. "I wouldn't have liked to be Mrs. Noah--living in a boat full of smelly, noisy animals! They probably fought all the time too."
"I like animals," said Ethan. "They didn't fight, did they, Mommy?"
Mom smiled. "I like to think they all got along--and Noah's family too. You'd think they'd be so thankful to be safe on the ark that they'd gladly put up with bad smells and loud noises--and also each other, even though I'm sure it wasn't easy to be stuck on a boat together for so long. But we aren't always like that with our family members, are we?"
Liam and Maelie looked at each other. "We're getting along just fine," Maelie said, confused.
"I was referring to a different family," Mom replied. "Like Noah and his family, we've also been saved. Jesus has saved us from sin and death, and all those who trust in Him are part of God's family. Yet I've been listening to you grumble about your family members and complain about things Anthony and Mia do that annoy you. But don't we all do annoying things at times? We're blessed to have lots of brothers and sisters in Christ--everyone who knows Him is one of His children. Instead of grumbling, we should be thankful to be part of God's family and to have eternal security in Jesus. We should love one another as He loves us."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do other people sometimes annoy you? Do you grumble and complain about them when they do? The Bible tells us to love all people, but especially those who are fellow believers. God's family is like Noah's ark--it contains all of God's children, even those we don't always get along with. But we have all been saved by Jesus and are loved by Him. Live in harmony with your brothers and sisters in Christ by being patient with them and showing them love.
Today's Key Verse:
Love one another deeply as brothers and sisters. (CSB) (Romans 12:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Love one another
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:22-26; Hebrews 12:1-3
"Look! Here they come," said Isabella's dad. He pointed down the street past the next few parade entries.
Isabella could hear the beat of the drums from a block away. She searched for her brother. All the students in his middle school marching band were wearing matching uniforms with hats pulled down low over their foreheads.
"They all look alike," Isabella said. "How will I find Max?"
"He'll be in the row with the other trombone players," said Dad.
As the band got closer, the drum major turned around and marched backwards, facing the band. He blew a whistle, then waved his baton in the air. The band started playing a song. He turned and marched forward again, never missing a step.
Left, right, left, right. Isabella tried to match the tempo with her own feet. "Look, Dad," she said as she marched in place. "I'm practicing for when I get older." Isabella spied her brother as his row passed in front of her. "Hi, Max!" she yelled, waving. He stared straight ahead, playing his trombone and marching in time with the music. Isabella's feet lost their rhythm, and she stopped marching. "Dad, why didn't Max look at me?" she asked, disappointed.
"Max needs to stay focused on the drum major so he knows how to march and when to play," Dad explained.
Isabella grinned. "That's sounds like what we talked about during devotions last night! We talked about how we need to stay focused on Jesus and trust Him to help us show His love to others."
Dad nodded. "Just like a drum major leads the band, Jesus leads us in living out His love. He gave us the Holy Spirit, who helps us keep in step with who Jesus has made us to be as His children. Then we won't be led astray by things that distract us or tempt us to sin."
"Like Max didn't let anything distract him?"
"Right," said Dad. "He stayed focused on the drum major and trusted him to lead him and the rest of the band in what they needed to do."
Isabella heard another band coming. "I want to practice keeping in step," she said.
"With the bands?" Dad asked.
"With Jesus," Isabella said, and she started to march.
-Marie Cleveland
How About You?
Are you marching to the beat of Jesus's love in your life? To keep in step with Jesus, first trust Him to forgive your sins. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then His Holy Spirit will live in your heart and guide you in your new life with Him. Trust Jesus to be your leader, and keep your focus on Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit. (NIV) (Galatians 5:25)
Today's Key Thought:
Keep in step with Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 51:7; Galatians 5:16; Ephesians 4:22-24
Shearing the sheep was a big deal around the McMillian ranch. It only happened once a year, and Landon loved watching his dad and some of the hired hands shear the sheep. Landon was always fascinated with how still the sheep would stay as they were turned onto their backs. They seemed so relaxed.
Once the shearing was done, the sheep were led back out to the pasture, and the wool was gathered up into big bags and sent off to the mill to be cleaned and processed. Soon the wool would be dyed into many different colors and turned into beautiful pieces of clothing and other items. The sheep were always so full of energy after they had that heavy wool taken off it was as if they were little lambs again.
"We got a good yield of wool this year," Dad told Landon's mom as they sat down for dinner.
Dad prayed, and then Landon, talking so fast that Mom could hardly understand him, told her all about the exciting day of sheep shearing. "The dirty, heavy wool just came right off in big layers, and the sheep looked so clean, and it almost looked like they were smiling. They must be happy to have all that old wool off them."
"You know, you're right, Landon, and that reminds me of us as Christians," Dad said.
"What do you mean, Dad?" Landon asked.
"Well, before we were saved, we were carrying the heavy load of our sin. But when we trusted in Jesus, He removed our sin and made us clean, and He gave us a new life. That means we need to throw off our old, sinful nature--the way we thought and acted before we knew Jesus--and put on our new nature. We do that by trusting the Holy Spirit to renew our thoughts and attitudes and make us more like Jesus."
"That's really cool, Dad!"
For the rest of the night, Landon thought about what his dad had said. He was so thankful that Jesus had forgiven his sins and washed them all away. Just like the sheep, Landon felt cleaner and lighter. Before going to bed, he prayed and asked the Lord to help him remember to let the Holy Spirit renew his attitude each day.
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Has Jesus removed your heavy load of sin? Once you become a Christian by trusting in Him, you begin a new life. Jesus removes your sin and gives you the Holy Spirit, who guides you in living your life. As you follow His leading, you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves. So today, be mindful of your new life in Christ, and let the Holy Spirit guide you and renew your thoughts.
Today's Key Verse:
This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (NLT) (2 Corinthians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus gives us new life
Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 1:6-11
Jase raced into the garage where his older brother was working on his car. "Cole! Come quick! Hunter fell into Mrs. Scott's pool and she can't get him out!"
Cole grabbed a broom from the corner and shot out of the garage to help the small neighbor boy. Jase ran after him and watched his brother jump into the pool and swim to where Hunter was thrashing around. Cole got Hunter onto the broom and pulled him to the side of the pool, where Jase and Mrs. Scott lifted him out.
That evening, Jase couldn't stop talking about Cole's daring rescue.
"I should teach you some life-saving techniques before I go back to college," said Cole. "Too many people think they can just jump in the water and swim to someone who's drowning, but that's the worst thing you can do. The person will just pull you under. First you should see if there's a way to pull them out without getting in the water yourself. If you must jump in, make sure you have something for them to grab on to."
"Like a broom!" said Jase. "I wonder if any of the neighbors laughed when they saw you sprinting down the street holding a broom."
"They can laugh all they want," said Cole. "I grabbed the first thing I saw that would help me save Hunter."
"You know," said Jase, "this reminds me of Pastor Lee's sermon last week. He talked about how people made fun of Jesus when He died on the cross, but Jesus knew dying for our sins was the only way we could be saved. It's like we were drowning in sin, and Jesus jumped in to rescue us." Jase sighed. "Sometimes I'm afraid my friends will laugh at me if I talk to them about Jesus. But you didn't care what anyone would think when you grabbed that broom to rescue Hunter, and Jesus came to save us even though it meant He would be laughed at as He suffered and died."
Cole smiled. "I struggle with the same thing sometimes--I'm afraid my college friends will laugh if I talk to them about my faith. Maybe I should put that broom in my dorm room to remind me how much we all need to be rescued by Jesus."
-Vicki L. Reinhardt
How About You?
Are you afraid people might laugh at you if they find out you're a Christian? Do you think your friends might tease you if you try to talk to them about Jesus? That could happen, but remember what Jesus went through to save us--He was publicly ridiculed and then nailed to a cross for our sins. We all need Him to rescue us, and those who don't know Him need to hear about Him. Trust Him to give you courage to share your faith with others.
Today's Key Verse:
Woe is me if I do not preach the gospel! (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 9:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Tell others about Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 5:6-11; 1 Peter 5:7-11
"Mom, I wish Dad still lived here," said August as he finished getting ready for school. He sighed deeply. "I…I wish I had acted better. Then maybe he wouldn't have left."
"August, Dad didn't leave because of your behavior. He loves you as much as ever," Mom said, putting an arm around August.
"You're sure?" asked August. Mom nodded, but August sighed again. Both his mom and dad had said that many times. He wanted to believe them, but there was an ache in his heart that wouldn't go away. He was sure if he hadn't whined so much or had obeyed more quickly, Dad wouldn't have moved out.
At school, thoughts of his dad often popped up between the sentences August was reading. He finally got his mind off his problems when his teacher showed the class a big book on space travel. "Can I take it home today and show my mom?" August asked after class. He was thrilled when his teacher said yes.
August took the heavy book and began walking home. As he walked, it seemed to grow heavier and heavier. "Look what I've got," he said when his mom met him at the back door. "This book is so cool--but it makes my arm ache."
"That book is awfully big. It's a burden too heavy for you to carry." Mom reached down and took the book. "Feelings can also be burdens too heavy for us to carry. Like the feeling you have that Dad left because of you."
"I sure wish I didn't have that feeling," August said. "It hurts worse than my arm."
"I know," said Mom. "Jesus invites us to give our burdens to Him. He can handle any burden we're trying to carry ourselves and promises to give us rest and strength. Wouldn't you like Him to carry that burden for you?" August nodded. "Let's talk to Him about it," said Mom, so they bowed their heads and prayed together. "Now," said Mom, "anytime you feel like Dad's leaving is your fault, go to Jesus again, and remember that He'll carry the burden for you. Will you do that?"
August nodded. His arm still hurt, but the ache in his heart felt much better.
-Katherine R. Adams
How About You?
Do you have a burden that's too heavy for you? If your parents are separated or divorced, do you wonder if it's your fault? Maybe worries about school or friends often fill your mind. Talk to an adult about your heavy burdens--someone who can help you turn them over to Jesus. He loves you and wants to carry them for you. If they start to worry you again, give them right back to Him--and learn to leave them there.
Today's Key Verse:
Give your burdens to the Lord, and he will take care of you. (NLT) (Psalm 55:22)
Today's Key Thought:
Give your burdens to Jesus
Bible Reading: Luke 12:15-21, 31; Hebrews 13:5
"Mom! The house on the corner--the one we looked at last year--is for sale again," Charlotte said as she burst through the door. "Can we look at it again, Mom? Can we buy it? It's so cool!"
"It's a beautiful house," said Mom. "But it was too expensive when we looked at it before, and I'm sure it still is." She glanced around the room. "This is a beautiful house too. God has provided well for us."
"Yes, but the one on the corner is so much bigger!" said Charlotte.
"But the only way we could pay for that house would be to live on canned spaghetti and powdered milk," Mom said with a grin. "Does that sound good to you?"
Charlotte laughed. "No, but wouldn't it be nice if we were richer and could afford a house like that? Maybe you could work more hours, and I could do odd jobs for people in the neighborhood."
Mom frowned. "Do you remember what happened when we tried to make a super-duper buffet lunch last week?"
"Yeah." Charlotte groaned. "We had the oven going, and every appliance we owned was plugged in. We blew one fuse after another, so we couldn't get anything done!"
"Yes," said Mom. "We ended up with a lot of half-cooked food because we tried to do too much. Can you see how we might learn something from that experience?"
"Sure." Charlotte giggled. "We learned we need the big house on the corner because the electric stuff here doesn't work so well!"
Mom laughed. "I had a more spiritual lesson in mind. I'm thinking that we could overload ourselves like we overloaded the wiring. More work, more possessions, more debt--filling our lives with more more more can make us lose track of what really matters. It might seem like a bigger house or more stuff will bring us more satisfaction in life, but we need to remember that only Jesus can satisfy the deepest desires of our hearts. He knows our wants as well as our needs, and He promises to fill our lives with the riches of His love and grace, which is worth far more than anything money can buy. Let's trust Him and be thankful for a safe and comfortable home we can afford."
-Lorna B. Hickey
How About You?
Do you ever wish your parents had more money? Do you dream about the things you'd be able to buy if they did? Money provides physical comforts, but nothing you can buy will ever satisfy your soul. Only Jesus can do that. So don't overburden yourself seeking riches that don't satisfy. Remember that Jesus knows exactly what you need, and let Him fill your life with the richness of knowing Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own. (NLT) (Luke 12:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Things don't satisfy
Bible Reading: Zechariah 7:9-10; Ephesians 4:32; 1 Peter 3:8-12
After the basketball game, Gracie's mom picked her up. "Can we drop Liv off at her house?" asked Gracie.
"Sure," said Mom, and the girls climbed into the back seat.
"That girl with the purple pants was a mess, wasn't she, Gracie?" Liv giggled. "She couldn't make a basket if you set it three inches in front of her nose!"
Gracie frowned. "You've got to give her credit for trying. She was doing her best! Besides, I felt bad for her." Liv shrugged and changed the subject.
At home, Gracie set the table while her mom fixed dinner. "I'm proud of you," Mom said as she took out a recipe book. She moved things around on the counter and appeared to be looking for something. "I'm glad you didn't make fun of the girl on the other team today."
"Well, it's not like I'm going into the basketball hall of fame either," Gracie said sheepishly.
Mom smiled at her. "Maybe that helped you to be kind. I know it's tempting to poke fun at people, but we have to remember that God created and loves every one of us, and He wants us to respect one another. By not making fun of that girl, you showed the kind of love and compassion today that Jesus shows us." Mom opened a drawer and sorted through it.
"Are you looking for something?" Gracie asked.
Mom nodded. "My glasses. I can't imagine where I left them."
Gracie looked at her mother and burst out laughing. "Look in the mirror," she said, pointing. "You pushed them up on top of your head!" Suddenly, she stopped laughing. "Oh! I guess I shouldn't laugh! I didn't mean to make fun of you."
Mom grinned. "Yes, you should laugh!" she said, removing her glasses from her head. "It's okay to laugh at funny things that happen. Just make sure you're laughing at what a person does and not at the person, and only if it's something both of you find funny--don't laugh if it would hurt someone's feelings. In this case, you're not hurting my feelings at all."
Gracie relaxed. "You did look funny," she said. Laughter spilled out again--and Mom's laugh was even louder than Gracie's.
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Do you find it hard to know when it's okay to laugh at something? If you're tempted to laugh at someone, imagine how it would feel to have others laughing at you for that same reason. If you wouldn't mind, it's probably okay. But if it would hurt you, or if the person seems to be offended at others laughing, stop. By being sensitive to people's feelings, you're showing them the love and compassion of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Show faithful love and compassion to one another. (CSB) (Zechariah 7:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't hurt others by laughing
Bible Reading: James 3:5-8
Miguel and Carlos were exploring the small stream in Miguel's backyard. "Hey, look over there!" Carlos pointed. "It's a poison dart frog! I wonder if we can catch it."
The boys ran back to the house to ask Miguel's dad for a bucket. "You're going to catch what?" Dad asked in surprise.
"A poison dart frog!" said the boys in unison.
"Maybe I should come to supervise this," Dad said. "Poison dart frogs can be dangerous if you don't handle them properly."
Dad and the boys, now armed with a bucket and gloves, went back to the stream in search of the frog. They quickly found the bright orange and blue frog perched on a rock. Together they captured the little creature in their bucket. "Boys, this tiny frog is oozing poison. In fact, animals that eat these frogs can get very sick, and many die from the toxic poison. Since it's on the frog's skin, touching it could be very painful if the poison got into a cut or open wound."
"Oh boy!" said Carlos. "These frogs are bad news!"
"They aren't all bad," said Dad. "Scientists are trying to develop medicine using some of these little guys. They think the toxins could be used in good ways like in anesthesia and muscle relaxants."
Miguel looked puzzled. "So these frogs can be both deadly and helpful?"
"That's right," said Dad. "It just depends on how they're used." He peered into the bucket to look at the little frog. "You know, poison dart frogs always make me think of our tongues," Dad said.
"I'm sure not going to lick this frog!" Carlos said with a laugh.
Dad smiled. "I wouldn't recommend that. But just like this poison dart frog can be both harmful and helpful, our tongues have the power to speak hurtful or encouraging words. The Bible says that both death and life are in the power of the tongue, so we have to choose to use our words in the right way. We need to remember that we belong to Jesus and speak in a way that reflects His goodness and love."
Miguel looked in the bucket. "Well, little poison dart frog, you will be a good reminder to use my words to help people, not hurt them."
-Kendra Angle
How About You?
Do your words bring help or harm to those around you? The Bible says our words are very powerful. We can use that power in a good way to show others the love of Jesus, or we can speak harsh, unkind words that hurt people's feelings. Jesus always helps and encourages us through His words in the Bible, and He wants us to speak words that lift people up, not tear them down.
Today's Key Verse:
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (NIV) (Proverbs 18:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Speak helpful words
Bible Reading: Psalms 19:1-4; 33:6-9; John 1:1-3
Luca and his dad were watching a cartoon about creatures from another planet. "That was fun," said Luca when it ended.
Dad grinned. "Fun, yes, but also pretty silly." He got up off the couch. "And now I'm going to go finish your bookcase."
"I wonder if there really is life on other planets," Luca said as he followed his dad to the workshop.
Dad picked up an electric screwdriver. "I read an article online about the space probes scientists have sent to Mars. The probes have helped us learn a lot about the planet, but they haven't found any evidence of life."
"What kinds of things are they looking for?" asked Luca.
"If I'd known I was going to be quizzed, I would have read the article more carefully!" Dad teased. Luca laughed as he held a shelf steady so Dad could drive in the screw. "I believe they're looking for signs of either animal or plant life," Dad said. "If they found a skyscraper or a farmhouse, I imagine they'd conclude there was intelligent life on Mars."
Luca grinned at the idea of a farmhouse on Mars. "What does that mean--intelligent life?"
"It means living beings that are able to think and reason," said Dad.
"Like humans?" asked Luca.
"Exactly. So why would a farmhouse on Mars make scientists think there was intelligent life there?"
"Because somebody would have had to design it and build it," replied Luca.
"That's right. I don't think scientists are going to find a farmhouse on Mars, but the universe is full of signs of intelligent life that are visible to everyone," said Dad.
Luca's eyes widened. "It is?"
Dad nodded. "Just look at the stars in the sky, or at a dog, or a dandelion, or a human. They're not here by accident; they were designed by the most intelligent life of all--God! The Bible tells us all of creation points to God, our Creator." Dad set down the screwdriver. "There! What do you think of this bookcase?"
Luca grinned. "It looks like someone put a lot of thought and work into it, so it must be a sign of intelligent life!" Dad laughed as they carried the bookcase to Luca's room.
-Holly F. Cepeda
How About You?
Have you ever been told that the world and everything in it just happened--that it all just came together by chance? When you think about it, that makes no sense at all. Everything you see and use each day required a designer and a builder--and that includes things in nature. God created everything there is, and it all points to His greatness and glory.
Today's Key Verse:
All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made. (NKJV) (John 1:3)
Today's Key Thought:
God designed and created everything
Bible Reading: Psalm 23
Callie scooted into the passenger seat of her mom's SUV and gave a sheepish grin. "Sorry to keep you waiting. I wanted to practice one more time."
Mom smiled. "Today's the day you recite Psalm 23 in front of your Sunday school class, isn't it?"
"Yes," said Callie with a sigh. "And for some reason I keep forgetting the fourth verse."
"Why don't you practice with me?" said Mom. She started the car and pulled onto the long, winding road to church.
Callie's face brightened. "Sure!" She cleared her throat. "'The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though…though I…'" She shook her head. "It's no use. I always forget--Mom! Stop!"
Mom hit the brakes, and with a jolt, the SUV came to a halt.
"Look!" said Callie, pointing out the windshield. "A turtle!"
Sure enough, a small turtle with a greenish-gray shell was slowly trekking across the road.
Callie grabbed a pair of gloves from under her seat and opened the door. "I'll move him to safety before he gets hit by a car."
"Just watch out for traffic," replied Mom.
Approaching the turtle from behind, Callie firmly grasped its shell with both hands and gently lifted it into the air. "Hold on, little friend," she said softly.
She walked quickly toward the lake on the other side of the road. Within seconds, the turtle was safe and sound, swimming among the lily pads.
When Callie got back to the car, she was grinning from ear to ear. "Guess what? I remember the next verse! 'Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.'"
Mom laughed. "That turtle was literally walking through the valley of death, wasn't he?"
"Yes," said Callie. "And just like Jesus is always there to help us, His children, in times of trouble, I was able to help the turtle."
"You certainly did," said Mom with a smile. "Ready to head to church?"
"I am now," said Callie. "All thanks to a turtle!"
-Amanda Spino
How About You?
Have you ever been in a situation where you felt scared and alone? Perhaps you were someplace new and unfamiliar. Or maybe you were lost. The Bible promises that Jesus is always with us, even in our darkest moments. Next time you are afraid, tell Jesus how you feel and let Him embrace you with His comfort and peace.
Today's Key Verse:
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for You are with me. (NKJV) (Psalm 23:4)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is always near
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:9-11
"Aw, Grandpa, why do we always have to read the Bible after dinner?" Mack complained. I want to go finish building my fort, he thought as he watched Grandpa pull his big Bible off the shelf in the dining room.
Suddenly a bolt of lightning split the sky outside the window. Mack ducked with his hands over his ears as thunder shook the house. The lights blinked and then shut off.
"Not the lights," Mack groaned. Well, at least now we can't read the Bible since Grandpa can't see well enough to read in dim light, so I can go make my fort, he thought. "Grandpa, can I have a flashlight?"
"What for?" Grandpa asked. Mack could hear shuffling as he returned the Bible to its shelf.
"So I can finish building my fort," Mack said.
"You don't need a flashlight for that," Grandpa said. "You can see well enough."
Mack huffed and gripped the edge of the table as he made his way toward Grandma's linen closet. His foot hit something cold and metal, and water splashed onto his pant leg. "Ew, dog water!"
Grandpa handed him a napkin and he dried his foot. After grabbing an armful of blankets from Grandma's closet, he headed down the hall toward the living room. As he turned the corner, he smacked into the edge of the wall. "Owww!" he howled, and his blankets fell to the floor.
He saw a light bobbing from the direction of the dining room, and soon Grandpa appeared, flashlight in hand. "Would you like this?" Grandpa asked, holding out the light.
"Yes please," Mack said.
"Did you know that the Bible is like a flashlight too?" Grandpa asked as he helped Mack gather his blankets.
"What do you mean?"
"God's Word shows us where to walk. It shines light into our lives by showing us our sin and our need for Jesus to free us from it. And it teaches us how to live as God's children. Without the truth of God's Word in our lives, we would be stumbling in the darkness, and that always leads to trouble."
"Like how I spilled the dog water and smacked into the wall?" Mack asked.
Grandpa nodded. He piled the last blanket in Mack's arms. "Now go finish that fort of yours," he said. "And with a light this time."
-Julia Lodi
How About You?
Have you ever wondered why you should read the Bible? The Bible shines the light of God's truth into our lives so we can see the path we should follow. It points us to Jesus, who died for our sins so we could have a relationship with God. It shows us how to live as God's children and share His love with others. Read and listen to its truth so it can light your path and show you the way you should go.
Today's Key Verse:
Your word is a lamp for my feet and a light on my path. (CSB) (Psalm 119:105)
Today's Key Thought:
God's Word gives light
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:16; 1 Peter 3:3-4
"Look!" said Mom. Isabel's eyes followed her mother's pointing finger. Her blue eyes sparkled as she spotted a striking orange and black butterfly flitting daintily from flower to flower.
"He's so pretty!" Isabel exclaimed. "Let's watch and see where he goes." Mom nodded, and they followed the butterfly's progress through Grandma's garden.
"Look at those red flowers," said Isabel a moment later. "They're the prettiest flowers in the garden. That butterfly will like them." She looked around. "Where did he go? I don't see him anymore."
Mom's eyes searched the area. Then she pointed toward a small cluster of weeds just below the red flowers. "He's there."
"On those weeds?" asked Isabel. "Oh yeah, I see him. I wonder why he's bothering with weeds when there are so many pretty flowers."
Mom smiled. "That's one wise little butterfly. He knows that the prettiest flowers aren't always the ones with the sweetest nectar."
"You mean those tiny purple flowers on the weeds taste sweeter to the butterfly than the big red ones?" asked Isabel.
Mom nodded. "It seems that they do."
Isabel frowned. "How odd!"
"We should be as wise as that butterfly," Mom said. "Sometimes, we get carried away by the way people look or how they dress. We forget that real sweetness and beauty comes from the heart--the kind of person we are on the inside."
Isabel thought about that. "So it doesn't matter how we look?"
Mom laughed. "I didn't say that. We should take care of ourselves and do our best to look nice. But when we focus more on our outer appearance than we do on the way we treat others, that's not good. We need to remember that our true beauty comes from Jesus. He has given us new, beautiful hearts, and that means we can show His love to others through our attitudes and actions."
"And letting people see the beauty He's given us on the inside is more important than what we look like, isn't it?" said Isabel.
"It sure is," said Mom. "Let's remember that how we are on the inside is what's important in God's sight and trust Him to help us show others how He has made us beautiful."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
What kind of person are you? It's natural to want to look good and wear nice clothes, but remember that in God's eyes real beauty is on the inside. Real beauty is found in Jesus and the love He has put in your heart. If you are kind and gentle and loving in how you treat others, you are showing the kind of beauty that God loves to see--the beauty of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Your beauty…should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God's sight. (NIV) (1 Peter 3:3-4)
Today's Key Thought:
Show your inner beauty
Bible Reading: Matthew 22:1-14; John 6:35-40; Revelation 19:6-9
Sofia sighed as she put down the last of the envelopes she was stuffing. "They're all done, Mom--the invitations for the neighborhood reunion are ready to go."
"Thanks, Sofia," said Mom. "You've been a big help! Our planning committee thought about just emailing invitations, but we decided paper invitations would help everyone know how much we want them to come."
Sofia grinned. "I think it's a great idea--throwing a party and inviting everyone who used to live in the neighborhood but moved away. I hope lots of people come. It's been a long time since I've seen some of the kids I used to play with."
When the reunion day arrived, Sofia and her family joined the crowd at the neighborhood park where the festivities were being held. "There's Mr. and Mrs. Wood!" exclaimed Sofia. "And Jill's with them!" They all hurried over to greet the Woods, who used to live next door to them.
Then Dad saw Mr. Yu, who used to be the school principal; Mom headed for Mrs. Burgos, who had been in her Bible study many years before; and Sofia spied a girl who'd been in her class at school before moving away.
That night, Sofia and her parents talked about seeing so many old friends. "I was hoping the Sanchez family would come," said Sofia. "I wanted to see the twins again." She frowned. "I wonder why they didn't come. Maybe they didn't get the invitation."
"I'm sure there are good reasons why some who got invitations couldn't come," said Mom.
"I guess so," Sofia said. "I can't see why they'd just ignore an invitation for such a fun event."
"It was fun, wasn't it?" said Dad. "It reminds me of another event we've been invited to--one we definitely don't want to miss!"
"What event is that?" asked Sofia. "I haven't seen any invitations come in the mail."
Dad took his Bible from the coffee table and held it up. "Our invitation is right here! Jesus invites everyone to come to Him to have their sins forgiven and receive eternal life, and those who do will take part in a much bigger reunion someday--a gathering of all God's children in heaven. It's an invitation we want to be sure to accept."
-L. Anne Siegrist
How About You?
Have you accepted Jesus's invitation to trust in Him as your Savior? All who do will be with Him--and with all other Christians--in heaven someday. What a celebration that will be! This invitation is not one you can afford to turn down. Accept it today and come to Jesus for forgiveness and eternal life. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
The one who comes to Me I will by no means cast out. (NKJV) (John 6:37)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus invites you come to Him
Bible Reading: John 6:5-13
"Yessss, cinnamon rolls!" Anna bounced in her lunchroom seat, her braids swinging up and down. She carefully opened the plastic bag, releasing the delicious smell into the air.
"Anna, won't you share?" asked her friend Andrew. He sat across the table eyeing her treats.
Anna bit into a cinnamon roll and slowly chewed with her eyes closed. She licked the sticky icing off her fingers with a smack. "You had cookies." She pointed at the leftover crumbs in front of him. "You don't need my cinnamon rolls."
"Pleeeease?" Andrew begged. He folded his hands and pouted.
"No, these are mine." Anna was about to eat the second roll when she spotted Chris. "Is Chris eating alone again?"
Andrew turned around to see. "Looks like it. He always eats one PB and J sandwich. I know I'd be hungry if that's all I ate."
Anna frowned. "That reminds me of something. Do you remember how we learned about Jesus feeding five thousand people with a little boy's lunch? It wasn't much, but he shared it with Jesus. And Jesus did a miracle with it!"
"Yeah," said Andrew. "I bet that boy was surprised when the five loaves of bread and two fish he brought for lunch fed five thousand people!"
Anna looked at the roll, then back at Chris. "What good can this small cinnamon roll do?" she whispered to herself.
"Hey, you're not throwing that away, are you?" asked Andrew. He perked up when Anna stood.
"No," Anna said. "I'm sharing the little I have. It can't feed everyone, but maybe it can help somebody."
Anna walked to Chris's table. "Hey, Chris." She offered him the roll.
"What's that?" Chris asked shyly.
"It's a cinnamon roll," Anna replied. "My mom made it, but I want to share it with you."
Chris's eyes grew wide and welled up with tears. "My mom used to bake rolls before she got sick."
"Oh." Anna bit her lip. "Here, try it." She handed it to him and sat down across the table. "It's really yummy."
Chris took the roll from the plastic bag and carefully bit into it. As he chewed, he closed his eyes and smiled.
Anna smiled too.
-Kenzie McGregor
How About You?
What's something small you can share to help others and show them God's love? Maybe you have a toy car, a book, or a game you can share. Maybe you can sing or bake or write a thoughtful note to someone. No matter how small it is, Jesus can use whatever you're willing to share for His glory.
Today's Key Verse:
Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many? (NIV) (John 6:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Let Jesus use what you have
Bible Reading: Matthew 26:41; Ephesians 4:22-32; 5:1-2
"Look at Smoky." Nolan pointed to one of the family pets, a long-haired cat. "He likes the sun." A contented purr came from the gray form stretched out on the windowsill.
A few minutes later, Nolan's little sister Jada came into the room. "Hi, Chipper," she said. "Do you want out?" She dashed over to the bird cage and opened the wire door. Chipper, the parakeet, glided gracefully to the floor.
"No, Jada!" exclaimed Nolan. "Smoky's here!" He lunged for the cat, but not in time. A silent, gray shadow slid down from the windowsill, and a moment later Smoky had the bird in his mouth. But Mom was just as quick. She grabbed the cat, held him down, and pried his mouth open. Carefully, she removed the little bird.
"Is Chipper hurt, Mommy?" wailed Jada.
"I think he's just badly frightened," Mom said, gently stroking the trembling bird while Nolan shooed the cat out of the room.
"Smoky's naughty!" Jada declared. "Why can't he be friends with Chipper?"
"Yeah. He should know better," said Nolan.
"Perhaps, but it's a cat's nature to hunt," Mom said. "No matter how tame he is, when he sees a bird, his natural instincts take over."
"Well, I'm mad at him," Jada said, crossing her arms.
"I don't blame you," said Mom. "But he's actually a lot like us."
"Like us?" asked Nolan.
Mom nodded. "Christians have an old nature, and it likes to take over too. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, His Holy Spirit comes to live within us, but sometimes we're careless and let our old natures take over again."
"Like when you hit me," Jada said to her brother.
"Well, you called me names," Nolan retorted.
"I'm afraid those old natures are trying to take control again," said Mom. "We need to be on guard and remember who we are in Jesus. Because we know Him, we've received a new nature with the power to choose to do right and to love others. If we follow our old nature, we will sin. The Bible says to take off the old nature and put on the new. Jesus gives us the power to do that."
-Trula H. Bensinger
How About You?
Do you let the Holy Spirit guide your actions? Or do you often let your old nature take over and choose to sin? If you know Jesus, your old, sinful nature is no longer a part of who you are, because He has made you new! Let the new nature He's given you be seen in your life as you choose to love others and do what's right by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Today's Key Verse:
Put on your new nature, created to be like God--truly righteous and holy. (NLT) (Ephesians 4:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't give in to your old nature
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8; Luke 2:51-52
Elora watched her big sister leave the house. "Why can't I go to the library with Maya?" she asked. "I'll look at books while she studies."
"Elora," Mom said patiently, "it's almost your bedtime, and Maya will be gone a couple of hours."
"But it's not fair! I want to go with her!"
"But you're eight years old," said Mom. "Maya is in high school. When you're her age, you'll be able to do more things."
Elora frowned, but she turned back to her book. A short time later, Mom got up from the couch. "Bedtime," she said.
As Elora got up, she began complaining again. "Maya has her own phone and laptop, and she gets to go places whenever she wants."
Mom stopped at the foot of the stairs. "Elora, when you were a baby, you went up these stairs very carefully on your hands and knees. Later, you held onto my hand very tightly so I could help you. Do you remember that?"
Elora laughed and shook her head. "No, but the little kids at church do that. They're so cute."
"Now you're much bigger," Mom continued, "and you walk up the stairs. You're physically able to do so much more now than you could when you were a baby. That's the way God intends it to be. And that's the way He intends you to grow in other areas too. Gradually, you'll be able to do more and more things."
"Like Maya does, you mean?" asked Elora.
Mom nodded. "Yes--but look at all you do already! Last week, you stayed overnight at your friend Carmen's house. You ride your bike in the street now. You walk to the school bus with the neighborhood kids. You couldn't do those things when you were two, could you?" Elora shook her head. "God made us in a way that doesn't require us to learn everything at once," said Mom. "We just have to take one step at a time. Even Jesus had to do that when He became human! He had to grow up just like us. Trust Him to help you be patient as you wait to be able to do all the things Maya can do. Then focus on enjoying the things you can do now!
-Dean Kelley
How About You?
Do you wish you could be older than you are now? Remember that God has a time for everything. Even Jesus had to learn and grow as a baby and then a boy before He became a man. Trust Him to help you be patient and to teach you what He wants you to learn at this stage of your life. Instead of focusing on what you can't do yet, enjoy the things He has for you at the age you are now.
Today's Key Verse:
He [God] has made everything beautiful in its time. (NKJV) (Ecclesiastes 3:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Be content to be a kid
Bible Reading: Matthew 10:29-31; John 1:1-3, 14
Lucy wiped the sweat off her forehead. "Can we take a break? I'm so thirsty I could drink a giant cup of lemonade."
"We're just about done," Mom replied. "Did you finish pulling out all the weeds in your section of the flower garden?"
Lucy stood and stretched her back. "Just finished."
"Great job," Mom said. When she returned her gaze to the ground, she gasped in surprise. She waved at Lucy. "Hurry, come quick!"
Lucy scurried over and knelt down. She stared at the base of a rosebush where Mom was pointing. As soon as Lucy saw the toad, her eyes lit up with delight. "Oh, wow! He's so big. I'm going to call him Big Fred."
Mom smiled. "That's a great name."
Lucy leaned forward to take a closer look at the brown toad. She could see his sides heaving in and out as he breathed. After a moment, she turned to her mother. "Do you think God cares about Big Fred?"
"That's a great question," Mom replied. "The Bible tells us that God cares for sparrows. That means He cares about other animals as well."
"Plus, He made all the animals," Lucy added. "Since He made them, then they must be important to Him."
Mom slowly stood to her feet. "That's right. But do you know who else God cares about?"
"Who?" asked Lucy.
"You, of course!" Mom held out her hand and helped Lucy to her feet. "God made many spectacular things. Think of all the beautiful waterfalls, the majestic mountains, and the amazing animals. But God cares about people the most. He loves us so much that Jesus became one of us so we could be saved from sin and live with Him forever."
"That sure makes me feel important," Lucy said.
Mom nodded. "Well, you ready?"
Lucy looked at her mom with a curious expression. "Ready for what?"
"Lemonade! That sure does sound good."
As Lucy and her mom walked toward the house, Lucy waved goodbye to Big Fred. She smiled when she saw him hop away. "I'm so glad that God cares about Big Fred," Lucy said. "And that He also cares about me."
-Mark and Megan Wainwright
How About You?
Do you know that you're important to God? He cares for all of His creation, but you're more important to Him than any plant or animal. God created people in His own image, and when we rebelled and separated ourselves from Him, Jesus became human and died for us so we could have eternal life with Him. That's how much He loves you. Always remember how important you are to Him.
Today's Key Verse:
[Cast] all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. (NKJV) (1 Peter 5:7 )
Today's Key Thought:
God cares for you
Bible Reading: Acts 17:10-12; 1 John 4:1-3
Ariana hurried over to her dad in the church foyer before the church service began. "Dad, guess what my Sunday school teacher told us today? She said Noah took two of most kinds of animals on the ark, but he took seven pairs of some. Did you know that?"
Dad nodded. "I know it now, but I didn't know it when I was your age. I learned it the hard way when I was sixteen."
"What happened?" Ariana asked.
Dad smiled sheepishly. "Before I was a Christian, a couple of friends and I decided to see what went on at a small church in our town. We sat in the back row. The pastor said Noah took seven pairs of some kinds of animals. Well, everybody knew Noah took two of each kind, so I was sure he was wrong. I stood up and tried to correct him--right during the service!"
Ariana's eyes widened. "Oh no! What did the pastor say?"
"He was very gracious. He smiled and thanked me for pointing out what a lot of people were probably thinking. He asked everyone to turn to Genesis 7:2, and he read it out loud. Of course, I quickly saw I was wrong. I was embarrassed, but I learned a valuable lesson. I hope you can learn from it too, instead of embarrassing yourself like I did--or worse."
Ariana frowned. "What could be worse?"
"Believing a lie. Some preachers say things that the Bible really doesn't say, and they lead people away from the truth. That's why we need to check things with the Bible--even when a pastor is preaching."
"But our pastor would never mislead us!" said Ariana.
"I don't believe he would," said Dad. "I trust Pastor Hunt because he preaches that we can only be saved through the death and resurrection of Jesus. But if he did tell us something that was incorrect, how would we know?"
"By checking Scripture, right?" replied Ariana.
Dad nodded. "As Christians, we have the Holy Spirit to guide us in understanding God's Word. As we read it, pray about it, and talk to other Christians about what it says, He will help us know when something we're told isn't true."
-Heather Tekavec
How About You?
Do you use your Bible at church? Do you follow along when the pastor is reading or preaching? Most preachers know the Word of God well, but like all people, they can make mistakes, and some may lead people astray with false teaching. Check their teaching against Scripture, and ask your parents or other Christian adults about what they said. Pray about things that are hard to understand, and trust God to help you know the truth of His Word.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. (NLT) (1 John 4:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Find out what the Bible says
Bible Reading: Psalm 103:8-13; Romans 3:21-26; 6:23
"It's not fair," said Kate as she stomped up to her teacher's desk. "I don't have any wrong answers on these word problems, but you still gave me a B instead of an A."
"You didn't show your work," Mrs. Castillo replied patiently. "That was part of the assignment. I said you needed to show me how you got your answers or you would not receive full credit."
"But on my last assignment I didn't show my work either, and you didn't lower that grade," Kate countered.
"That's true, but I can't continue to be that lenient," said Mrs. Castillo. "I warned you about that."
Kate huffed. "But I deserve--" The school bell interrupted her.
"You'd better hurry, or you'll be late for your next class," said Mrs. Castillo.
That night at dinner, Kate told her dad about her talk with Mrs. Castillo. "I deserved to get an A just like on my other assignment."
"I disagree," said Dad gently. "You knew the penalty for failing to show your work. What you really deserved was to lose points on both assignments. You should be grateful that Mrs. Castillo went easy on you the first time." Kate looked glum, but she had no answer to that.
During devotions, Dad read a few verses from Psalm 103. When he was finished, he said, "This reminds me of your problem with Mrs. Castillo, Kate."
"What do you mean, Dad?" Kate asked.
"The Bible clearly says that we're all sinners, and we deserve death and eternal separation from God," said Dad. "But listen to verse ten again. 'He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve.' Christians will spend eternity in heaven with Jesus--not because we deserve it, but because of God's mercy. Just like Mrs. Castillo didn't mark you down on your first test even though you didn't follow the instructions and show your work, God doesn't condemn those who trust in Jesus as their Savior. Instead, He shows us grace and forgives us for all our wrongs." Dad closed his Bible. "Let's pray and thank God for His gift of eternal life."
"And for not giving us what we deserve," added Kate.
-Philip J. Anderson
How About You?
Do you think you deserve to go to heaven? If so, you're wrong! The Bible says that all of us are sinners who deserve death for sinning against God. But because of His mercy and grace, Jesus took the punishment for our sins when He died on the cross, and if you trust in Him, God won't give you what you deserve. Instead, He'll give you His gift of eternal life. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
He does not punish us for all our sins; he does not deal harshly with us, as we deserve. (NLT) (Psalm 103:10)
Today's Key Thought:
God offers undeserved grace
Bible Reading: Psalm 37:3; Romans 8:28, 31-32
"No, Jena!" Kegan's words startled his little sister as he pulled her hand away from the lamp. Jena started to cry and squirmed out of her brother's grasp.
"What's going on?" asked Mom as she entered the living room.
"Jena was trying to reach the light bulb. I guess she didn't know the bulb was hot and would burn her."
Mom sighed. "Right now she's at the stage where she wants to touch everything she sees. I'm glad you stopped her before she hurt herself."
That evening, Mom noticed Kegan looking glum. "What's wrong?" she asked.
"I have math class tomorrow, and Mrs. Phillips is so hard! I prayed that Miss Clayton would be my math teacher this semester--her class is always doing fun activities and they hardly get any homework. But God didn't answer my prayer, and now I'm stuck with Mrs. Phillips."
Mom sat down next to Kegan. "Remember when Jena tried to touch the lamp this afternoon?"
"Yeah, but what's that got to do with God not answering my prayer?"
"Jena thought touching that hot bulb would be a good idea, but you knew better," said Mom. "Maybe your situation is a little like that. Maybe God knows that being in Mrs. Phillips' class is better for you. Maybe He wants her to challenge you and help stretch your thinking so you'll grow as a student. Ever think of that?"
"Well…no," replied Kegan.
"As Jena gets older and realizes you know more than she does and that you want what's best for her, she'll learn to trust you more," said Mom. "We need to learn to trust God in everything, even when He doesn't answer prayer the way we wish He would. We need to remember that Jesus loves us so much He died for us and that He promises to be with us through life's difficulties and use them for good."
"I guess you're right," Kegan said. "I want to pray and ask God to…" He stopped. "I was going to say I wanted to pray that Mrs. Phillips' class wouldn't be so hard, but really I should pray that Jesus would help me remember He loves me and will be with me no matter what."
Mom smiled and gave Kegan a hug. Then they bowed their heads to pray.
-Elizabeth Adler
How About You?
Do you trust God to answer your prayers in the way He knows is best? It can be difficult when He doesn't answer your prayer the way you were hoping He would, but know that He loves you and hears you when you pray. Tell Him how you feel and ask Him to help you with your problems. Even if you don't get your way, trust Him to be with you in whatever happens and use it for good.
Today's Key Verse:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him. (NIV) (Romans 8:28)
Today's Key Thought:
God can be trusted
Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 16:6-12; 1 Corinthians 1:26-31
"I can hardly wait to see the old mansion!" exclaimed Camilla. She and her family were on their way to visit Grandma and Grandpa Garcia, who had recently become caretakers of a large estate. As they drove, Camilla talked about her day at school. "There's a new girl in my class, Emma, and she dresses really weird! I was so embarrassed when our teacher asked me to show her around the school."
Camilla's brother Lucas rolled his eyes. "What does it matter what her clothes look like? What she's like is more important than what she wears."
"Lucas is right, Camilla," said Mom. "It sounds like you're focusing on Emma's appearance instead of who she is as a person."
Camilla scowled and changed the subject. "Look," she said, pointing ahead. "I think we're almost there!" As Dad turned down an overgrown lane which led to a large old house, Camilla frowned. "This can't be the right place. This looks more like a dump than a mansion!" But when her grandparents welcomed them and led them inside, Camilla gasped. The floors glistened, and carpeted steps curved from the hallway to the second floor. "Oh, wow! I can't believe how nice this is! The outside looks so run down."
"Yes," said Grandpa. "The old place is being restored, but the company that was hired for the outside work can't begin until next month. That's why there's such a difference between the inside and outside." He smiled. "This house is a good example of why we shouldn't judge by appearance."
"We talked a little about that on our way over here," said Mom, giving Camilla a nudge. "We sometimes forget that the heart of a person is much more important than how they look or dress. But God knows that. He looks at the heart, and Jesus died and rose again to save us from sin so our hearts could be made new like the inside of this house. That's how much He loves each one of us."
Camilla looked around at the beautiful house and then out the window to the overgrown front yard. Mom's right, she thought. I did judge Emma by the way she looks on the outside, and that was wrong. When I get back to school, I'll try to find out what she's really like.
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Do you accept or reject people because of the way they look? God says it's the inside that counts. He looks at our hearts, and even when He sees the ugliness of sin there, He doesn't reject us. Instead, He offers us a new, clean heart through Jesus! That's how we should look at others too. Instead of judging people based on their appearance, remember how God sees them and show them the love He has put in your heart.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not judge according to appearance. (NKJV) (John 7:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't judge by appearance
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:22-26
Tina and Amy were lying on their backs on a big checkered tablecloth that Tina's mother had put on the grass for them. They had just finished their peanut butter sandwiches.
"Look at that cloud," said Amy, pointing up at the blue sky. "It looks just like a big bird flying backwards."
Tina laughed. "And look at that one," she said, pointing to another cloud. "It looks like a giant watermelon with a hat."
It was windy though, and the clouds quickly drifted across the sky and were gone.
"It sure is windy today," said Amy, brushing her shiny brown hair out of her eyes. "It's made me think of something we learned in Sunday school last week."
"What's that?" asked Tina.
"Mrs. Hirsh talked to us about the Holy Spirit. He is like the wind. We can't see Him, but He is here. When Jesus went back to heaven, God sent us the Holy Spirit so He would be with those who trust in Him."
"I know about Jesus," said Tina. "But tell me about the Holy Spirit."
"Well, it's not easy to understand," said Amy, "but God is a triune God. That means God is three Persons, but one God--God the Father, God the Son, who is Jesus, and God the Holy Spirit. Three in one."
"Does the Holy Spirit help us like Jesus would?"
"Yes," said Amy. "Mrs. Hirsh said He guides us and teaches us. And He is a comforter too. He helps us when we go through hard things or when we're sad."
"That's nice to know," said Tina.
"And He helps us have fruit in our lives too," said Amy.
"Fruit?" Tina looked surprised. "What do you mean?"
"Not like the fruit we eat," said Amy. "Spiritual fruit. Mrs. Hirsh said the fruit He produces in our lives are things like faith and love and gentleness that show others we belong to Jesus."
"That's sounds like good fruit," said Tina. "Wow, I learned a lot today on our tablecloth!" She looked up again and pointed to the clouds. "Oh, look--a plump caterpillar with a balloon chasing it!" They both laughed.
-Sharon Roberts
How About You?
What kind of fruit is being produced in your life? Just like bananas and apples are good for your body, the fruit of the Spirit shows God's goodness in your heart and mind. The Holy Spirit helps produce things like kindness, gentleness, and love in you so others can see the good work He's doing in your life. Trust Him to grow His good fruit and make you more like Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. (CSB) (Galatians 5:22-23)
Today's Key Thought:
The Holy Spirit grows good fruit in our lives
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:51-57; Revelation 21:3-4
Cara heard the floor squeak under her tennis shoes as she followed her mom down the hospital corridor. Her dad was in the hospital again, and her mom had picked her up from school so they could visit him.
"Dad!" Cara cried as they entered his room. She ran to the bed and flung her arms around her father's frail shoulders. "Have the doctors figured out what's wrong with you yet?"
Dad hugged her close. "They're still running tests, but I'm afraid the news isn't good."
A lump formed in Cara's throat. "I'll pray for you, Dad. I'll pray you'll get better."
Dad smiled and squeezed her hand. Pretty soon it was time for Mom to take Cara to her aunt and uncle's house where she'd be staying so Mom could be close to Dad at the hospital.
A few weeks later, Cara woke up one morning to see Mom sitting on the edge of her bed. "Mom! You're here! How's Dad?"
"Oh, Cara," said Mom with a sob. "Dad is with Jesus now."
Hot tears flooded Cara's eyes. "What? No! I prayed that God would make him better, that he wouldn't be sick anymore!"
"And he's not sick anymore," Mom said as she pulled Cara into her arms.
"But…but I don't understand!" Tears streamed down Cara's face. "How could God let Dad die?"
"I don't know, honey," said Mom as she wiped her eyes. "Sometimes God allows things to happen that we can't understand here on earth." She brushed the hair out of Cara's eyes. "But Cara, think of how Dad must have felt when he opened his eyes and saw Jesus." Mom's words were very quiet. "There's a Bible verse that says, 'Joy comes in the morning,' and today that came true for Dad. He woke up to find himself in the presence of Jesus, free of sickness and pain. It must be a wonderful morning for him."
Cara nodded. "I'm glad he's not sick anymore, but I miss him so much already!"
"So do I," said Mom, her eyes brimming with tears. "But someday we'll also wake up to find ourselves in the presence of Jesus, and when we do, Dad will be there too."
-Phyllis I. Klomparens
How About You?
Have you experienced the death of a family member or friend? It's hard to lose someone you love, and it's natural to feel sad about it and even wonder how God could allow it to happen. But remember that for a Christian, death means passing from this life on earth into the presence of Jesus in heaven. Trust Him to give you comfort and peace in your time of loss, knowing that one day He will wipe away all your tears when you see Him face-to-face.
Today's Key Verse:
Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. (NKJV) (Psalm 30:5)
Today's Key Thought:
After death, joy awaits Christians
Bible Reading: Romans 12:9-16; 1 Peter 2:21-25
Clay picked up his fork, sorted the peas out of his mixed vegetables, and pushed them off to the side of his plate. Two-year-old Penelope did the same thing. "Why aren't you eating your peas?" asked Mom.
"I don't like them," Clay answered.
"Don't like 'em," Penelope repeated.
"Yes, you do, Penelope," said Mom, scooping some peas onto Penelope's spoon and holding them up to her mouth.
"Yum," Penelope said. "More!"
A little later, Clay blew bubbles in his milk. Wide-eyed, Penelope watched him. Then she picked up her glass of milk and blew bubbles in it, spilling milk all over the table.
"Clay! Get a towel and help clean up your sister's mess," said Mom.
Clay obediently got the towel. As he began wiping the table, Penelope grabbed it. "Me too," she said, trying to wipe the table.
"You little copycat," Clay grumbled. "Mom, make her stop copying me."
"She copies you because she loves you and wants to be like you," said Mom.
"You need to remember that no matter where you are, others are always watching you," Dad told him. "And I'm afraid that not eating your peas and then blowing bubbles in your milk has made you a poor example this evening."
"Sorry," mumbled Clay.
"The best way to be a good example is to be a copycat yourself," Mom said.
"It is?" Clay looked surprised. "Who should I copy? Dad?"
Mom grinned. "That would be a start, since Dad doesn't blow bubbles in his milk."
Dad laughed. "Not very often, at least," he said, winking at Clay. "I think what Mom really means is that, as Christians, we need to follow Jesus as our example. Because He saved us from sin and gave us His Holy Spirit, we can follow His example and show others what He's like. As He works in our hearts, we become more like Him and can show examples of His love to others. He's the one we should copy."
Clay nodded as he finished wiping milk from the table. "Okay, I'll follow Jesus's example--and I don't think He would blow bubbles in His milk either!"
-Lucinda J. Rollings
How About You?
Are you a copycat of Jesus? Do you follow His example by obeying your parents, listening to your teachers, and showing kindness to others? As Christians, we can copy Him because He has freed us from sin and given us the Holy Spirit, who works in our hearts and helps us show others His love. Be an example of Jesus to others in everything you say and do.
Today's Key Verse:
Christ gave you an example to follow. He suffered for you. So you should do the same as he did. (ERV) (1 Peter 2:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Be a copycat of Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 37:23-24; 1 John 1:8-9
Alannah pulled on her ice skates and grinned at her aunt. "I'm ready to learn to skate, Aunt Rachel." Her aunt smiled, took Alannah's hands, and pulled her to her feet. As they started across the ice, Alannah wobbled back and forth, trying to keep her balance. "Whoa!" she exclaimed. She gripped Aunt Rachel's arm.
After a few laps, Alannah loosened her grip and let go. "Nothing to this skating thing," she declared with a laugh. As she spoke, she lost her balance and crashed to the ice. "Ouch! I guess I can't skate after all," she moaned.
Aunt Rachel pulled Alannah to her feet again. "Sure you can. When you fall, you just have to get up and keep skating."
"Do you ever fall?" asked Alannah.
"Oh yes--even though I've skated for many years," Aunt Rachel said as she helped Alannah to a bench. After resting a few minutes, Alannah was ready to try again.
A few days later, Alannah walked to her aunt's house after school to wait for her mom to pick her up. "How's it going?" asked Aunt Rachel. "Did you fall down today?"
Alannah grinned. "Nope, but I haven't been skating today."
"No, but there are more serious ways we can fall," said Aunt Rachel.
"Like?" asked Alannah.
"Well, I was just working on the lesson I'm teaching on Sunday, and it points out that when we sin, it's like falling down," said Aunt Rachel. "I've been a Christian for many years, but I still fall down when I do wrong things like tell a lie, lose my temper, or gossip. Tell me, Alannah--what do we have to do when we fall down?"
"Get up again," Alannah replied. "You taught me that when we were skating."
Aunt Rachel nodded. "I was there to help you get up when you fell on the ice. Who helps us get up when we sin?"
"Um…Jesus does," said Alannah.
"You got it," said Aunt Rachel. "He saved us from sin, and He is always there to help us up when we fall. He wants us to confess our wrongs to Him and accept forgiveness. Then He teaches us lessons from the tumbles."
-Lovella Daoust
How About You?
Can you think of times--perhaps even today--when you've fallen down? We all fall down by doing wrong things, even Christians. But when we fall, Jesus promises to help us back up. You should feel sorry for the wrong things you've done, but when you've confessed your failures to Jesus, accept His forgiveness. Then look to Him for strength to move on in your life.
Today's Key Verse:
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (NKJV) (1 John 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Accept God's forgiveness and move on
Bible Reading: Luke 5:4-11
Josiah knew two things for sure about Gramps--he loved God and he loved to fish! Josiah couldn't wait to spend the weekend fishing with his grandpa. They were going to fish all day and then spend the night at the cabin on the lake.
"Hi, Gramps!" Josiah shouted as he jumped out of the car. Gramps gave Josiah a big hug, and then they headed over to the shed to get their fishing gear ready. "Ouch!" Josiah cried out.
"Be careful around those fishing hooks. They'll stick you," Gramps reminded him.
After they had packed the car with their fishing gear and the rest of their supplies, Gramps said, "I think we have everything. Let's hit the road!"
Grandma waved goodbye as they drove down the driveway. Gramps took full advantage of the thirty-minute drive to the cabin to remind Josiah of the fishing safety, fire safety, and cabin safety rules. Gramps had retired from the military, so structure and proper procedure were very important to him.
When they got to the cabin, they unpacked the car and loaded the boat with their gear. "All right," said Gramps. "Let's go fishing!"
"Yes!" Josiah climbed into the little john boat, and Gramps pushed them out onto the water. The little motor hummed loudly as they roared across the lake.
After baiting their hooks and casting their lines out, they both sat quietly for a few minutes, and before long, the fish started biting. By the end of the day, they had caught a whole cooler full of fish.
"Fish fry for dinner tonight!" Gramps announced.
After dinner, Gramps and Josiah sat beside the campfire. "You know, Josiah, catching all those fish today reminded me of a story in the Bible." Gramps pulled a small Bible from his back pocket and read about how Jesus's disciples caught a huge amount of fish and then Jesus told them He would make them fishers of people.
"What does fishing for people mean, Gramps?"
"Jesus wants us to tell others about Him. He wants us to share the good news that He loves us and died and rose again to save us so they can know Him too."
Josiah smiled. "Thank you for taking me fishing, Gramps--and for always reminding me how much Jesus loves me."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Do you know Jesus as your Savior? If you do, He will help you tell others about His love so they can know Him too. John 3:16 reminds us that God loves the whole world and doesn't want anyone to perish, or be lost without Him. Trust the Lord to help you share His love with others, and He will do it.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus] told them, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone." (NLT) (Mark 16:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Share God's love with others
Bible Reading: Psalm 19:14; Proverbs 18:21; Galatians 5:22-26
"Ouch! My tummy hurts," Micah said on the way home from his friend's birthday sleepover.
"What did you eat at the party?" Mom asked.
"Well, last night we had tacos for dinner--I ate four. Then I had some birthday cake, ice cream, and chips. I finished off the night with a bunch of candy. This morning I had some hot chocolate and two donuts."
"I'm not surprised you don't feel good," Mom said. "Eating that much junk food would give anyone a tummy ache."
Micah groaned and held his stomach. "I don't think I'll do that again."
At school on Monday, Micah and some of his friends were talking about Jonathan. They were laughing about him and calling him the class nerd. Micah didn't really feel that way about him, but he wanted to fit in with his friends. Afterwards, he felt terrible, just like he'd felt when he'd eaten too much junk food.
"What's bothering you, Micah?" Mom asked when he got home from school.
Micah sighed. "I was saying junk about Jonathan with a group of my friends just so I could fit in, and now I feel awful about it."
"What do you think you should do about it?"
"I think I need to ask Jesus to forgive me for saying such unkind things. And I should probably apologize to Jonathan too--I think he overheard us making fun of him."
"That sounds like the right thing to do," Mom said. "You know, the Bible says the tongue can bring death or life. The words we say can either build others up and encourage them or hurt them and make them feel bad--and saying unkind things can make you feel bad too. I think you feel the way you do because you know saying junk like that doesn't fit who you are as a Christian. Since you know Jesus, you have the Holy Spirit inside you, and He's urging you to speak with kindness and be an encouragement to others. Let Him guide you in using your words in a way that shows others His love."
Micah nodded. "Okay, I'll do that. No more talking junk!" He picked up his backpack. "I'm going to my room to pray, and then I need to call Jonathan."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you ever said something and then wished you could take it back? The Bible has a lot to say about the tongue. Our words can encourage people and show them the love of Jesus, but they can also be very hurtful. That's why it's important to stop and think before you speak and to listen to the Holy Spirit. Trust Him to help you speak in a way that builds others up and points them to Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (NKJV) (Proverbs 18:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Watch what you say
Bible Reading: Psalm 103:8-14; Romans 3:23-24; 5:6-8
"Please don't tell Dad," Ethan begged his sister, stuffing his science test into his backpack. "I didn't expect to get a high grade, but I sure didn't think it would be this bad. I did my best. Promise you won't tell."
"I won't," said Mira. "But Mom and Dad will find out anyway."
When they got home, Ethan retreated to his room and stayed there until his mom called him to dinner. "I got an email from your science teacher," Mom said when Ethan came to the table. "He realized he put the wrong grade on your test--you actually improved quite a bit from last time."
Ethan jumped out of his chair and pulled out his test. "I knew it! I knew I must have done better than this!"
Dad reached for the test and looked it over. "Well, I'm glad this isn't the correct grade, but why didn't you show this to us earlier?"
"I was trying to do better, but this test said I did worse, so I thought you'd be mad at me for getting such a low grade."
"Oh, Ethan, we would have been concerned, but not angry," said Mom. "We know how hard you've been working, and we're proud of you."
"Grades are a measure of the progress you're making," said Dad, "but they're not a measure of our love. You're our son, and we'll always love you."
Mira grinned at her brother. "My Sunday school teacher says God is like that too. He loves us even when we fail."
"That's right," said Mom. "If God sent out report cards, how high do you think our grades would be?"
"Um, I don't know. Probably not very high," said Ethan.
"Not high at all," Dad agreed. "Everyone would fall short. That's why Jesus died for our sins--so He could give us His perfect grade in place of our failing one! That's how much He loves us. Our love for you isn't based on how well you do in school, Ethan, and God's love for us isn't based on how well we do in life."
"Right," said Mom. "Actually, the times we fail are often the times that help us recognize our need for Jesus--the times we feel His love the most."
-Gail L. Jenner
How About You?
Are you afraid God won't love you as much if you fail at something? He loves you so much Jesus died for you when you were still trapped in sin, and He'll never love you any less, no matter what. If you've trusted Jesus as your Savior, He will help you live the way He wants you to live, but that doesn't mean you'll be perfect. When you need forgiveness, ask Him for it, remembering that you're His child and He loves you very much!
Today's Key Verse:
He [God] knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust. (NKJV) (Psalm 103:14)
Today's Key Thought:
God's love never stops
Bible Reading: Philippians 2:1-18
"I'm tired of this history book!" Akera slammed the book shut and flopped back on the couch.
"Yeah! It's boring!" Ky looked up from the laptop and shared a look of misery with his sister.
Mom sighed and rubbed her forehead. "Kids, I've already changed your history curriculum twice this year. Now it's time to cut the complaining and do the work."
"But, Mom," Akera whined. "Can't we switch it one more time?"
Mom shook her head. "We are finishing this book, and that's final. Has it occurred to you that it's probably not the curriculum but your attitudes that need to change?" She got up to pour herself some coffee. "Remember when we went to the planetarium last month?"
"Yeah," said Ky. "It was one of the coolest field trips ever!"
Akera smiled thoughtfully. "My favorite part was that show about the stars--it was beautiful."
"One of the nice things about homeschooling is we get to take field trips whenever we want," Mom said. "But that doesn't mean you get to change the curriculum whenever you want. And speaking of stars, do either of you happen to remember what Paul said about God's children being like stars?"
Akera slid on a pair of sunglasses and took a selfie. "Not really, but I do look like a star!"
Ky cackled as Mom stifled a giggle. "Ha-ha. Not that kind of star. In Philippians 2, Paul wrote that when we do things without grumbling, our lives shine like stars, showing the world that we are God's children."
"Oh, I remember that now," Ky said. "Doesn't chapter two start with Paul talking about Jesus coming to earth and dying on the cross for us?"
"Yes," said Mom. "That was the most selfless thing, wasn't it? And He did it willingly--without complaining."
Ky tossed a pillow at Akera. "Guess we haven't been like stars today, have we?"
Akera threw the pillow back. "I guess not. Even though we don't like history right now, we don't have to complain about it. We are God's children, and I want to show it by the way I live my life."
Mom smiled. "You kids are pretty smart."
"Yep," said Ky. "We have a good teacher."
-Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Do you often complain about things? When you feel like whining about something you don't want to do, it can help to remember what Jesus did for you. Out of love for us, He humbly came to earth as a baby in a smelly manger to grow up and die on the cross for our sins. Trust Him to help you shine His light by showing others love and appreciation instead of grumbling.
Today's Key Verse:
Do everything without grumbling or arguing…Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky. (NIV) (Philippians 2:14-15)
Today's Key Thought:
Shine bright for Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 5:6-11
"That was cool!" Jude said when he returned home after his class had toured a Coast Guard ship at the sea festival held in their coastal city.
"Did you learn what the Coast Guard does?" Dad asked.
"This pamphlet says they fight smuggling, protect ships and ports, and rescue victims of sea disasters," Jude replied. "They pick up survivors when a plane crashes in the ocean too. Our guide said they saved at least six thousand lives last year! Storms sometimes come up fast, and people can't make it back to shore. Other times boaters just don't pay attention to the warnings. But the reason people are in trouble doesn't matter to the Coast Guard. I bet they save more lives each year than anybody!"
"They're well trained and do save a lot of lives," said Dad. "In times of war, the Coast Guard becomes a part of the Navy. Do you know the Coast Guard's motto?"
Jude nodded. "Yep. Our guide told us. 'Semper Paratus'--'Always Ready.'"
"The Coast Guard does a good job," said Mom. "But I can think of somebody who saves even more lives than the people in the Coast Guard do."
Jude looked surprised. "You can? Who?"
"I think I know," said Dad. "I think Mom means Jesus. He's willing to save anyone who will trust in Him."
Mom nodded. "Can you imagine that anyone struggling in the water would refuse help from the Coast Guard? I know I wouldn't! I would gladly accept help if the Coast Guard ever came to rescue me. But all of us need to be rescued from sin, yet many people refuse to accept the help Jesus offers. But no matter how much we keep trying to save ourselves, we never can."
"People might try to save themselves by doing good things, right?" asked Jude. "Like by going to church and giving money and being good. Stuff like that?"
Dad nodded. "But trying to save ourselves by doing good things won't work--it's like trying to rescue yourself when you're drowning. Trusting in Jesus is the only way we can be saved."
Jude smiled. "I'm so glad He came to rescue us."
-Linda L. Leonard
How About You?
Did you know Jesus came to earth to rescue you from sin? You can't save yourself. Perhaps you go to church, obey your parents, study hard at school, and give money to the poor. None of these things--good as they are--will save you. Jesus died and rose again so you could be forgiven for the wrong things you've done. Don't refuse His offer of salvation. Trust Him to save you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
The Son of Man [Jesus] has come to seek and to save the lost. (CSB) (Luke 19:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Let Jesus save you
Bible Reading: Psalm 56:1-13; Matthew 6:9-13
Zyan looked in awe at the newborn baby asleep in his arms. Zyan and his mom were visiting Aunt Sarah in the hospital because she had just had a baby.
"You're so tiny, Baby Charlie," Zyan said softly. Aunt Sarah smiled.
Just then, Charlie began to cry.
"Umm." Zyan shifted nervously, unsure what to do.
Aunt Sarah swooped in, scooping Charlie into her arms. "Oh, little one," she said, holding the baby close. "Tell Mama about it!" Charlie soon stopped crying, comforted by Aunt Sarah's closeness.
On the drive home, Zyan's mom spoke. "You know, Zyan, something Aunt Sarah said to Charlie today reminded me of Jesus."
"What was that?" asked Zyan.
"Well, Charlie needed his mom, so he cried out for her. Aunt Sarah came right over and was with him through his tears. Do you remember what Aunt Sarah said when she picked Charlie up?"
"Yeah," said Zyan. "She said, 'Tell Mama about it.'"
"Exactly," said Mom. "And Jesus does something similar with us. He promises to be with us--even in our most tearful moments. He tells us to tell Him how we're feeling and what we need. He is the One who will meet our needs, and His presence is what we need most."
"So Jesus is with me even when I don't remember He's there?" asked Zyan.
"Absolutely!" said Mom. "Just like Aunt Sarah was there for Charlie and comforted him by holding him close, Jesus is always with us. No emotion we experience is too big for Him. In fact, in the Bible we find all kinds of people who loved God and talked with Him about their deepest hurts, questions, and feelings. I'm really glad that God shows us in His Word that we can find comfort with Him, even in our hardest moments."
"Me too," said Zyan.
"And there's more good news to remember," Mom said. "Because Jesus died on the cross and rose from the grave, He promises He will one day make all things free from sin and free from tears! As Christians, we can know that He is with us now and forever, no matter what we face."
-Kandi Zeller
How About You?
Did you know that you can talk with Jesus, no matter what's going on in your life or how big your feelings are? God loves His children, so we can talk with Him about anything we're facing. As Christians, we can know that God is always with us and cares about what we're going through. Talk with Jesus about what you're feeling today!
Today's Key Verse:
[Cast] all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. (NKJV) (1 Peter 5:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Share your feelings with Jesus
Bible Reading: Matthew 28:16-20; Romans 10:13-15
"We've been talking about evangelism in my class at church," Rae told her mom as they were relaxing in lounge chairs next to the hotel pool. "Evangelism is a church word that means telling others about Jesus. Our teacher has been telling us stories about missionaries in other countries and how we can tell people about Jesus too, no matter where we are." Rae sighed. "It's making me think a lot about Evelyn and Lucia. I don't think either of them knows Jesus."
"Do you talk to your friends about Jesus?" asked Mom.
"Well…not really," Rae replied. "But I pray for them all the time."
"Prayer is important," Mom said. "But we also need to share the good news of Jesus with others. They need to know He loves them so much He died for their sins."
The next day, as they exited the freeway and turned onto a small country road, Dad slowed down the car. "What's going on here?" he asked as a man ran toward them, waving his arms. Dad rolled down the window to speak with him.
"Can't go this way," the man said. "River's flooded two miles down, and part of the road is completely underwater. It doesn't look that deep, but a couple cars tried going through and their engines got flooded."
"Okay, thank you!" said Dad.
After they got back on the freeway and pulled up a new route on Dad's phone, Mom spoke up. "I'm sure glad that man ran over to tell us the road was flooded, aren't you?"
Rae nodded. "If he hadn't done that, we would have kept going that way."
"Right," said Mom. "We may have even tried to drive through the water and gotten our engine flooded. That would have ruined our whole trip!" Mom shook her head. "It made me think of Evelyn and Lucia. Just like we needed that man to tell us not to go the way we were going, your friends need someone to tell them they're going the wrong way. Pray for them, but also talk to them about Jesus and what He's done for you. They need to know He's the only way to be saved and have eternal life."
-Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Are you afraid to share the good news of Jesus with your friends? It's important to pray for other kids, but unless someone tells them about Jesus, how will they know they need Him? Perhaps God wants you to be that person. Let them know Jesus loves them, and be open about what He's done in your life. Ask God to give you opportunities to point your friends to Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (NKJV) (Romans 10:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Tell others about Jesus
Bible Reading: John 15:10-14
Jillian knew she needed to hurry--her grandmother would be waiting. Nana picked her up after school, and Jillian spent the afternoons at Nana's house, reading and playing with Nana's cat. After work, Jillian's mother came to take her home.
Today Jillian worried about making Nana wait but decided it was worth it. Nana deserves a Valentine's Day gift, Jillian thought. That's why she had removed coins from her piggy bank earlier in the week--to order an elegant red rose for Nana. The student council at Jillian's school organized the rose sale, and Jillian couldn't wait to pick it up on Valentine's Day and give it to her grandmother. Now, on her way to Nana's car with the rose in her hand, Jillian walked slowly and carefully to protect the flower.
Thinking of Nana waiting for her in the car, Jillian walked faster, skipping a few steps. Nana's going to be so surprised! But then she stumbled and fell to the floor, dropping the rose. She struggled to her feet, rubbed her aching knee, and gasped. The delicate bloom had been crushed in Jillian's fall.
Jillian retrieved the flower and trudged gloomily to the car.
"Happy Valentine's Day, sweetie!" Nana sang out.
"Not so happy." Jillian held out the ruined rose. "I bought this because I wanted to give it to you as a Valentine's Day gift, Nana, but I tripped and fell on it."
"It's lovely!" Nana answered, taking the flower gently into her hands.
"What? It's terrible!" Jillian exclaimed.
"It's a gift of love," Nana replied. "You gave something up in order to give it to me. That reminds me of the greatest gift of love I know about."
"What do you mean, Nana?"
"Jesus showed us what love is all about when He gave His life for us. And when we trust in Him for the forgiveness of our sins, He pours His Spirit of love into our hearts."
"That's a lot better than a rose," Jillian mused.
"Jesus's death for us declares, 'I love you.' And you gave me the rose to say, 'I love you.' When we know Jesus as our Savior, we can share His love with others." Nana smiled. "Just as you did for me today."
-Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Do you ever wonder if you're able to show God's amazing love? When we begin a relationship with God by putting our faith in Jesus, His Spirit comes to live in our hearts. In His strength, we can share His love with others. Our love is imperfect, but God's love never fails. Even our messy efforts to show love can point others to the love of Jesus!
Today's Key Verse:
This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters. (NIV) (1 John 3:16)
Today's Key Thought:
We can share God's love
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:14-18
"Mom, you should see the new kid in our class at school," said Phoebe as she pushed construction paper aside to sit at the table. "He just moved here, and he's weird!"
Mom frowned. "That's not a nice thing to say, Phoebe."
"But he is!" Phoebe insisted. "He dresses funny--none of his clothes ever match. And he's so into math it's scary. He missed half of morning recess today because he was asking Mr. Potter a bunch of questions about math stuff we're not even studying. Who would choose math over recess?" Phoebe snorted at the thought.
Mom sighed and reached for a stack of cards. "What do you think of my cards so far?" she asked as she spread them out.
"Oh, they're gorgeous!" Phoebe said as she picked up a card with a red felt heart on the front. She opened it. To Tommy, it said. Happy Valentine's Day! Love, Mrs. Schaefer. Phoebe smiled. "Your first graders are going to love them!"
"I don't know," said Mom. "I didn't have enough material to make them all the same, so some have felt hearts and others have ribbons and others have glitter on the front. I think I'd better throw these out and just pick up a box of identical valentines at the store before school tomorrow to hand out."
"What? No!" cried Phoebe. "Your cards are so much better than store-bought ones! You put lots of love and effort into making them."
"But you don't seem to think the same thing when it comes to people," Mom observed.
"Huh?" said Phoebe.
"You seem to think that everyone should think and act the same way. But God created all kinds of people, with different interests and personalities, and He loves us all so much that Jesus died for us. But instead of trying to get to know the new boy in your class, you just make fun of him. You seem to prefer store-bought people to the unique ones God poured lots of love and effort into."
Phoebe stared at the table, twirling a piece of pink ribbon around her thumb.
"Where did you say this boy moved here from?" asked Mom.
"I don't know," Phoebe said quietly. Then a smile spread across her face. "But tomorrow I'm going to find out!"
-Daniel A. Burns
How About You?
Do you have trouble accepting people who are different from you? Every person was created in the image of God, and He loves us all. The next time you come across someone who's different, remember that Jesus loves them. Then try to get to know them. You just might learn something new--and make a new friend too!
Today's Key Verse:
I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. (NKJV) (Psalm 139:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Accept everyone
Bible Reading: Psalm 34:1-3; Ephesians 5:20
"I actually thought it was going to be cool to have this cast on my leg," Ben said as his dad helped him into the car after church. "When Joshua had a cast on his foot, the kids were always offering to carry his books and stuff like that." Ben sighed. "I can't say it's been that way for me, and these crutches really slow me down."
"I'm sure you'll get used to them soon," Dad assured him.
On the drive home, Ben's parents discussed the church service. "Pastor Everson's message was right on!" said Mom, and Dad nodded.
Ben frowned. "Maybe, but it was hard to pay attention when the microphone kept messing up. Did we have a new sound person today or something?"
Dad shook his head. "No, Mr. Stanley's been running the sound board faithfully for years. I don't know what happened with the mics today." Dad paused, then said, "It's like your leg, Ben."
"My leg? What's the sound guy got to do with me and my broken leg?"
"How often in the last twenty-four hours have you thought about your leg?" asked Dad.
Ben winced. "About a gazillion times."
"Before your accident, you didn't even think about the way your leg felt, did you?" asked Dad. Ben shook his head. "You never thought about the microphones or the great job the sound man was doing until something went wrong," Dad observed. "Just like you didn't think about your leg until something was wrong with it. We need to learn to be thankful and show appreciation for what goes right, and not be so quick to criticize when something goes wrong."
Ben grinned. "But if I walk around saying 'I'm sure glad I didn't break both my legs,' people are going to think I'm weird!"
Mom and Dad laughed. "Maybe, but it wouldn't hurt for us to remember once in a while to thank God for an arm or leg that feels good," said Mom. "The absence of pain deserves to get some of our attention too. Jesus has given us so many blessings, including the best one of all--eternal life with Him. Instead of only paying attention to what goes wrong, let's thank Him for the many ways He shows us His love and takes care of us each day."
-Mike Dize
How About You?
Do you notice when things are good and right? Those things are everyday blessings, but they often don't get our attention the way painful things do. The next time your stomach hurts, thank God for the health you have. When you have to do homework or chores, be thankful for the times you get to play. Thank Him for all the good things He's given you and for loving you and taking care of you each day.
Today's Key Verse:
Praise the Lord; praise God our savior! For each day he carries us in his arms. (NLT) (Psalm 68:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Be thankful for daily blessings
Bible Reading: Philippians 1:21-26
A hard rain shower passed, and sunshine glistened on the grass and trees. Then brilliant colors arched the sky. It was still raining lightly as Mabel gazed out the window. "Dad, come see the beautiful rainbow!"
Dad joined her at the window. "Wow, look at that!"
"How does God make rainbows?" asked Mabel.
"Well, when the sun is behind us and the rain is in front of us, the rays of sun pass through the raindrops,"
said Dad. "The water acts like a prism."
"What's a prism?" asked Mabel.
"I'll show you. Come with me." Dad led the way to his odds-and-ends drawer. "Would you like a rainbow to keep in your room?" he asked.
"Sure, but how?" asked Mabel. Dad smiled as he picked out a ball of string, scissors, and a small, triangular-shaped piece of glass with a small hook on one end. "What's that?" Mabel asked.
Dad held it up. "This is a prism." He tied one end of the string to the hook in the glass and held it out toward Mabel. "Cut here." She took the scissors and cut the string. "Okay," said Dad, "let's take this to your room."
Mabel was puzzled. "What are you going to do with it?"
Dad smiled and tied the triangular piece of glass to a curtain rod in Mabel's room. A moment later, a little rainbow danced on her desk and spilled onto the floor. "I love it!" Mabel exclaimed. "Just wait till I tell my friends I have my very own tiny rainbow!"
"You'll have it only when the sun is shining," Dad said. "The sun shining through the prism is what makes the rainbow." He turned and looked at her. "Did you know that you can be a prism too?"
Mabel laughed. "Sorry, Dad, but the sun shining on me just makes shadows."
"I'm not thinking about the sun in the sky," Dad said. "I'm thinking about the Son of God--Jesus. Because you trust in Him, He's put His Spirit in your heart, and His love shining through you will produce something even more beautiful than a rainbow. Through your actions and attitude, people around you will see God's love, joy, and peace."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
What can you do to make rainbows in your world today? Could you encourage a friend who's feeling down? Or do chores around the house to help your parents? Or sit with someone who's lonely? God can use you to bring a rainbow of His love to others' lives. Trust Him to help you reflect His light so others can see how much He loves them.
Today's Key Verse:
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV) (Matthew 5:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Be a prism for God
Bible Reading: Romans 8:14-17; 1 John 3:1-2
"Today," said Miss Hamilton as she passed out paper in art class, "you are going to use chalk to draw a picture of your family."
Some of the kids groaned, but Melia smiled. She knew just what to draw. She started sketching, and soon her paper was nearly filled with faces of girls, boys, men, and women. She used every color of chalk as she drew blondes, brunettes, redheads, and bald heads. She used peach, tan, brown, black, and beige on the faces. She was putting glasses on some of them when Miss Hamilton said it was time to stop.
"Who would like to share your picture with us?" Miss Hamilton asked.
Violet raised her hand. "This is me, my parents and brother, and all my grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins," she said as she held up her paper.
"Aunts and uncles and cousins?" asked Ian. "Were we supposed to draw them too? I thought we just had to draw our parents and brothers and sisters."
"I said family, so that can be whoever you want to include," said Miss Hamilton. She stopped at Melia's chair. "Melia, would you like to tell us who all is in your picture?"
Melia held up her picture. "I don't know much about my real family," she said hesitantly, "but here's my foster family. And this lady is my caseworker. This is a picture of the man who teaches my class at church. These are some kids in Honduras that our class collected money for. This one's my pastor. This is a missionary family in Africa, and here are some people who go to their clinic. These are--"
"Wait," said Ian. "Those people aren't your family."
"Oh yes, they are!" Melia stated firmly. "The Bible says everyone who's a Christian is part of God's family. I'm a Christian, and these people are too, so they're all my family." She stopped, unsure of what her classmates, and especially her teacher, would think of that.
"I like it," Violet said as she started sketching a few more figures in her picture.
Miss Hamilton smiled. "I do too. I think it's a wonderful thing to have such a large family."
-Sharyl Noelle
How About You?
Do you think of other Christians as family? If you're a child of God, all those who trust in Jesus are part of your family. This includes people you don't know from countries all over the world. It includes people who are well-known who you wish you could meet. It includes everyone who knows Jesus as their Savior. Because of Him, we all belong to God and are part of His family.
Today's Key Verse:
The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God. (NKJV) (Romans 8:16)
Today's Key Thought:
All Christians belong to God's family
Bible Reading: Psalm 92:1; 100; Luke 17:11-19
Emma sighed. "You really messed up, Elijah."
"What?" Elijah was baffled. "How?"
"You made Mom sad by what you said." Emma folded her arms. "No, it's not what you said, it's what you did. Wait, it's not what you did, it's the way you did it."
Elijah stared at her. His sister wasn't making sense. "So how'd I do whatever I did?"
Emma shook her head. "You mumbled thank you--and walked away! Mom went out of her way to pick up your friends, drive them to the game, and buy everyone lunch. And what did you do?"
"I thanked her!"
"Barely. You didn't sound very grateful at all. Even a whale shows more appreciation than that."
Elijah's face scrunched up. "Huh?"
"In class I learned about a fisherman who spotted a whale tangled in fishing ropes off the coast of San Francisco," Emma said. "He reported it and a scuba diving team came and cut the ropes off the whale."
"Wow," said Elijah. "I bet it was thankful."
"Yes--and it showed everyone how thankful. When it realized it was free, it swam to each diver and gently bumped them, like it was thanking them."
Elijah pictured it swimming in circles, giving the divers a whale-sized thanks. "I gotta fix something," he said.
Elijah found Mom and gave her a big hug. "I'm sorry I didn't thank you nicely for your help."
Mom smiled. "I was wondering if you were like the lepers who weren't thankful to Jesus for healing their awful disease."
Elijah remembered the story. Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one took the time to come back and thank Him. "I think I've been forgetting to thank God for things too."
"Well, I'm glad you came back," Mom said. "True thankfulness starts with remembering all that God does for us. He has set us free from sin and made us His children through Jesus, and He takes care of us and fills our lives with good things. As we grow more thankful toward Him, we'll show more gratitude to others too."
Elijah decided that was the kind of person he wanted to be. "Thanks, Mom. And I really mean it this time." He grinned. "It only took a whale to remind me!"
-Matt Shoemaker
How About You?
Do you thank God for all He's done for you? Do you show you appreciate what others do for you too? God loves you so much, and He has put people in your life who show you His love and care. When you thank God for the blessings He's given you, thankfulness becomes a way of life. Thank God for what He's done, and trust Him to help you show your thankfulness to others too.
Today's Key Verse:
I always thank my God for you. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 1:4)
Today's Key Thought:
Show that you're thankful
Bible Reading: Psalm 46:1-3
Thoughts churned inside Diego as he trudged alongside his grandparents, who had prepared a picnic to share on the beach. Usually he adored picnics, but not today.
If only Papa could find a job, he thought, swallowing back the tears. Then he and Mama would stop arguing. If only I didn't grow so fast and keep needing new clothes and shoes.
"Diego, you and Grandpa go walk and have a chat," Grandma said, placing a blanket on the sand. "I'll read and take care of our food until you return."
Diego and Grandpa said nothing for a while as the waves lapped in and out. Finally Grandpa spoke, breaking the silence. "You're worried about your parents, aren't you?"
Diego nodded, wiping away a tear. "What if Papa never finds a job and we become homeless? I feel so helpless. I pray, but God feels far away at the moment."
"Oh, Diego, our loving God is always near," Grandpa said, hugging him. "Jesus loves you so much He died for you, and He promises to always be with you and help you through hard times. Place all your worries in His hands, and He will give you strength. You will survive this. You'll see. We won't allow you to become homeless. Now let's enjoy this family time we've been blessed with."
The sun glistened on the sea as they walked back. Grandma looked up and smiled when she saw them. "This book is so exciting! There's one challenge after another for the heroine, and I couldn't put it down. I'm desperate to find out what happens next."
Grandpa gave Diego a nudge. "You see? It's not the end. Life is like Grandma's novel, a series of chapters with lows and highs. Through it all, we can always trust Jesus, who walks with us in life. What you're going through is a difficult chapter, but it isn't your whole life. It's a part of it that God will use to help you know Him better, and one day you will pass through it." Grandpa sat down on the blanket. "Come on, let's pray so we can eat."
After they prayed, Diego's heart felt lighter. As he ate Grandma's delicious food, he thought about how this difficult time was just one chapter of his life, and hope and strength filled his heart.
-Cindy Lee
How About You?
Are you experiencing a tough situation in your life? Perhaps you're worried about a family separation, moving, finances, sickness, or something else. Remember that this is a chapter in your life and that you are not alone. In hard times, Jesus is always with us and gives us His peace and strength. Trust Him to help you through this difficult chapter.
Today's Key Verse:
God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble. (NLT) (Psalm 46:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God in hard times
Bible Reading: John 14:16-20, 25-28
Maisie set the table for dinner while her mother made a salad. "You know, Mom, I wish I'd been alive two thousand years ago," said Maisie. "Jesus was living on earth then, and I'd have been able to see Him and talk to Him. But He left us and went back to heaven."
As she spoke, Maisie's tablet dinged, letting her know she had a new message. "It's from Elodie," she said when she opened it. "Madeline Bowers is going to be in town to give a concert next week! Can I go, Mom? Pleeease? She's my favorite singer!"
Mom smiled. "Okay," she said.
"All right!" Maisie grinned at her mother. "I can hardly believe you knew her back in college, and now I'll get to see her in concert!"
"I heard she was coming here for a concert," said Mom, "and since it's been years since we've seen each other, I invited her to stay with us while she's here. Is that okay with you?" Maisie's mouth dropped open, and she stared at her mother in disbelief. Mom laughed. "Madeline and I used to be good friends, so when I heard she'd be in town, I invited her to spend the weekend with us."
"Here? In our house? And she said yes? She's actually going to stay with us?" Maisie danced up and down in delight. "Why didn't you tell me sooner?"
Mom grinned. "I wanted to surprise you."
Maisie reached out to give her mom a hug. "I can't wait to tell Elodie!"
"Remember what you said a little while ago, Maisie--that you wished you'd been living when Jesus was on earth?" Mom asked thoughtfully. "I think you forgot something important."
"What?" Maisie asked.
"Well, seeing Madeline Bowers will be great, but she'll come and soon be gone again. But that's not what happened when Jesus left the earth. When He ascended into heaven, He said He'd send us the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit lives not just with us but in us because we've trusted in Jesus. Through Him, Jesus is always present with us. That's even better than having your favorite singer in town for just one weekend."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Have you ever wished you'd been alive when Jesus was on earth? It would have been wonderful to see Him heal the sick, make the blind see, and raise the dead. His disciples were sad when He said He was going to leave them, but He promised to send the Holy Spirit to comfort them--and He did! If you know Jesus as your Savior, you have the Holy Spirit living in you too. Through Him, Jesus is always with you.
Today's Key Verse:
Your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have from God. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 6:19)
Today's Key Thought:
The Holy Spirit lives in Christians
Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:3-10; 2:1-10
"Oh no!" Grant groaned, pulling a tray of overbaked cookies out of the oven. "I completely ruined these cookies!"
"That's okay," said Grant's cousin, Katy. "You can just make another batch!"
"I don't have time! I was going to deliver them to my friend Ryan for his birthday, which is today!"
"Hmmm," said Katy. "I have an idea. Here, get the grater."
Grant found a cheese grater and handed it to Katy. She used it to scrape off the burnt bottoms of the cookies.
"They're not burnt anymore, but they're still rock hard," Grant pointed out.
"Do you have ice cream?" Katy asked. Grinning, Grant ran to the freezer. They put a scoop of ice cream between two cookies and squished them together. "There!" declared Katy. "Ice cream sandwiches!"
"Wow! Thanks for helping me!" Grant exclaimed. "The cookies were terrible, but you saved them and transformed them into something even better--cookie ice cream sandwiches!"
"You're welcome!" Katy laughed. "One might say that I 'redeemed' the cookies."
"Redeemed. I think the pastor said that in the church service last Sunday, but I didn't know what it meant," Grant said.
Katy explained. "To redeem means to recover, to rescue, or to make up for something. Your burnt cookies are a bit like us. God created everything good. But just as burning the cookies ruined them, sin--turning away from God--brings hurt and death into the world. We were ruined by sin, and there was nothing we could do to fix our relationship with God. But Jesus died so that we could have life; His death brought a solution to the problem of sin that separated us from God. He didn't stay dead and rose again to life, bringing eternal life to all those who trust in Him!"
"Oh, I get it," Grant said. "Our cookies were a disaster, but we redeemed them into something good again."
"Yep!" Katy nodded. "And even when our lives seem like disasters, God works through the hard things to bring us good. And one day, He will restore the whole world."
Grant smiled. "I'll have to tell Ryan the whole story when I give him the redemption cookie ice cream sandwiches!"
-Abby Ciona
How About You?
Do you ever feel like you're too bad to be rescued by Jesus? No matter what you've done, Jesus's sacrifice pays the price for your sin. When we trust in Jesus, our sin is cleaned away, and we have a new life in Him. He can work through the hard things in our lives to do great things for His Kingdom. Trust Him as your Savior, and He will redeem you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace. (NKJV) (Ephesians 1:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus brings life out of death
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-2
"It must be so lonely for the people in the nursing home." Anna placed her Bible on the dining room table. "After I read Mrs. Henshaw the Bible, her whole face lit up. I wish she could read the Bible on her own, but she's blind, so she can't."
"I'm sure Mrs. Henshaw appreciated you visiting her with your Sunday School class," said Mom. "Here." She handed Anna an empty cardboard box. "Can you help me find things around the house we don't need? Our church thrift shop is asking for donations."
"Let's check my room." Anna sped to her bedroom, and Mom followed.
"Anna." Mom pointed at the bed. "You sure have a lot of stuffed animals. Do you think you can part with a few?"
"Okay, I don't mind giving most of them away, but I can't part with Effie, my stuffed elephant. I've had him since I was three years old."
"Doesn't he have the whole Bible in a pocket on his tummy?" asked Mom.
Anna nodded. "There's a recorder inside the pocket. You just press the button and he speaks God's Word. I used to listen to him every night, but now I only sleep with him."
"Why did you stop listening to the recording?"
"Because now I can read the Bible on my own." Anna's brows scrunched up. "You know, I think Mrs. Henshaw would love listening to Effie, but it would be hard to give him up. I could give her the Bible recording without Effie, but I think she'd like him too."
"That would be a sacrifice, Anna."
"What's a sacrifice?"
"A sacrifice is something you give up for another person. Jesus made a sacrifice for us when gave up His life to save us by dying on the cross. When we give up things for others, we show how much we love Him because of what He did for us and that we want others to know His love too."
Anna picked up her stuffed elephant and hugged him. "I'm going to really miss Effie, but I want Mrs. Henshaw to have him. Do you think we can stop by the nursing home again today?"
-Chanda Singleton Griese
How About You?
Have you ever made a sacrifice? Was it hard to do? Do you know about the sacrifice Jesus made for you? Jesus Christ, God's own Son, sacrificed Himself by dying on the cross for all the wrong things we do so we can be forgiven. When we trust in Him, He fills us with His love, and then we can be willing to make sacrifices to help others know Him too.
Today's Key Verse:
The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. (NIV) (Matthew 20:28)
Today's Key Thought:
Live a life of sacrifice
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:1-4, 13-14
Jonah sat on the rope swing in the backyard, thinking about the new boy in his class at school while his mom weeded the flower garden. "Hey, Mom," Jonah said. "Have you ever heard of autism?"
"Yes, why do you ask?" asked Mom.
"Well, there's this new kid in my class named Max," explained Jonah. "My teacher said he has a form of autism that might make him react differently or say things in a way that might seem odd sometimes. She told us to be extra patient and kind as he adjusts to a new school. He seems really smart--like in science class he knew all sorts of facts about outer space and space missions. But then at lunch, he sat all by himself even after I invited him to sit at my table. He didn't seem like he wanted to be bothered. I'm not sure what to do."
"People with autism sometimes make friends a little differently," said Mom. "Being around a large group of people is probably challenging for Max."
"I want to be friends with him, but I'm not sure how," Jonah said.
Mom looked at her flower garden. "Do you see how these lilies are starting to fall over? Every year, I have to tie them to a stick for extra support. Maybe Max just needs a friend like you to give him extra support in the friendship department."
"You mean I can kind of be like the stick to help prop him up?" asked Jonah.
Mom nodded. "You can ask to sit with him at his lunch table tomorrow so he doesn't feel so overwhelmed by a crowd. You can support him by listening to him and trying to understand how he sees things. As you get to know him, I think you'll find that there are areas you struggle with where he can support you."
Jonah grinned. "Like science!"
"God made Max with unique abilities, just like He made you with special talents and skills," Mom said. "He gave us all different gifts so we can use them to help each other. Jesus knows we all need His love and support, and He often shows it to us through other people. You can be that friend for Max--and he can help support you too."
-Kendra Angle
How About You?
Do you know someone who could use some extra support? Maybe it's someone with a special need, like autism or a physical disability. Perhaps a friend struggles in a school subject you're good at. God has given each of us different strengths, and we all face different struggles in life too. You can show the love of Jesus to your friends by offering support in areas where they need it--and when you need help with something, they can support you too.
Today's Key Verse:
Carry each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. (NIV) (Galatians 6:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Friends support each other
Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 6:6-10
Dad groaned as he sat down to put on his snow boots. "This cold weather is unbearable! After this winter, I'll never complain about being too warm again. I wish we had a hot sun right now."
With a twinkle in her eye, Theodore's mom pulled up something on her phone and handed it to her son. Theodore grinned at her and put his finger to his lips. "Shhh," he mouthed. Then he snuck up behind Dad and hit the play button.
"Whew!" Dad's voice boomed from the speaker. "This heat is unbearable! I'll never complain about the cold again. I'd give a lot for a few inches of snow right now."
"What!" Startled, Dad twisted around in his chair to look at Theodore. "When did you record that?"
Theodore laughed. "Last summer. Mom and I hear the same thing every summer and every winter. We just wanted you to hear it yourself."
Dad laughed too. "Caught by my own words. How quickly we forget. I guess we're hard to please, aren't we?"
Mom nodded. "It's easy for us to find something to complain about, isn't it?"
"I don't complain about the weather," said Theodore. "I like summer, and I like winter. I'm easy to get along with." He grinned at his parents.
"I wasn't just talking about weather complaints," said Mom.
"I know." Theodore sighed. "I guess I do complain about other things. Instead of looking for things to complain about, we should focus on being thankful for good things, shouldn't we?"
"Right!" said Mom. "God has filled our lives with so many good things, and He's given us the best gift of all--Jesus. The Bible reminds us that we can be content no matter what our circumstances are like because of Him. Even when things aren't the way we'd like them to be, we can rest in the hope and joy of Jesus, knowing we have eternal life with Him."
"Thank you both for the reminder." Dad finished lacing his boots and stood up. "I'd better go shovel the driveway and be thankful I don't have to pull weeds in the garden today." He grinned at Theodore. "Did you record this conversation too? I might need to be reminded of it again when the weeds start to grow."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Is it easy for you to find things to complain about? When things change, do you notice something else you wish was different? Things aren't always the way we wish they were, but the Bible tells us that instead of complaining, we can be content. Because of Jesus, we can look past our present circumstances to the eternal hope and joy we have in Him. Thank God today for the gifts He's given you, and trust Him to help you be content.
Today's Key Verse:
I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I find myself. (CSB) (Philippians 4:11 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be content in any situation
Bible Reading: Colossians 3:12-17; 1 Peter 1:13-16
"I love the glasses you picked out, Elena," Mom said when she and Elena arrived home from the eye doctor. "They look so good on you!"
Elena sighed as she took off her coat and hung it up. "That's what they said at the doctor's office too, but…" She took off her glasses and rubbed her eyes. "But I really don't want to wear my glasses to school tomorrow, Mom. What if kids make fun of me?"
"Oh, Elena, lots of kids wear glasses, and yours look very nice," Mom told her. "Don't be afraid to let the kids at school see that you wear glasses now. If anyone gives you a hard time about it, let me know, but I'm sure the kids will get used to your new look in no time."
Elena looked at the glasses in her hand. "I guess you're right," she said as she slipped them back on. "Being teased isn't as bad as not being able to see well."
"That's right." Mom set her purse on the table and hung up her coat. "You know, I remember being afraid of being teased for my new look when I was about your age."
"Really?" Elena flopped down on the couch. "Did you get glasses then too?"
"No," Mom replied. "I was afraid kids would tease me if they knew I was a Christian."
"Oh," said Elena. "I guess that's a much bigger change than getting new glasses!"
Mom nodded. "I was a new Christian, and I was thrilled to be a follower of Jesus and have Him in my life. But when I was with my friends, I still talked and acted the way I always had. I had a new life, but I was afraid my friends would tease me if I let them see the change Jesus had made in me." Mom smiled at Elena. "Just like you need to put on your new glasses, I needed to put on my new self. I was afraid to do that--we all are sometimes--but God worked in my heart and helped me be brave enough to show my friends my new look."
Elena smiled. "I'll be brave tomorrow!" she declared. "I'll put on my new glasses, and I'll trust God to help me put on my new self too!"
-Rita Valladares
How About You?
Are you afraid of being laughed at because you're a Christian? Are you hesitant to let your friends see the difference Jesus makes in your life? He has made you a new person, and He will help you take off your old self and put on your new one. Remember that He is with you and will give you courage, even if people make fun of you. Trust Him to help you show others the new life He's given you.
Today's Key Verse:
Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus. (NKJV) (Colossians 3:17 )
Today's Key Thought:
Let others see your new self
Bible Reading: John 14:1-2; 1 Corinthians 2:9; Revelation 21:1-4, 18-27
Arlo took a bite of his meatloaf. "We learned about heaven in Sunday school today," he said. "But there's something I don't understand. I know heaven is supposed to be wonderful, but it doesn't sound so great to me. Won't it be boring, just walking around on a golden street, singing hymns?"
"I'm sure we'll be doing more than that," Dad said.
"That's what Mr. Davis said too." Arlo sighed. "The Bible doesn't tell us a lot about it though, does it?"
"No," Dad replied, "but we do know that it will be a wonderful, beautiful place. And the best part is that we'll finally be with Jesus."
"Right," said Mom. "Sometimes it's hard to understand how great that will be, but think about how glad you are to see Grandpa and Grandma when we visit them. Seeing Jesus will be even better."
Arlo ate the last bite of his meatloaf. "I wonder why God didn't tell us more about what heaven will be like."
"For one thing, it would be impossible for our minds to understand all the good things He has planned for us, but we do know Jesus will make everything new one day and give us bodies that never get sick or die." Dad looked over at four-year-old Felix. "Finish your carrots, Felix. We're almost ready for dessert."
"What is it?" Felix asked as he stabbed a forkful of carrots.
Mom just smiled. "It's a surprise, but I promise you'll like it."
"Can I have mine now, Mom?" asked Arlo.
Mom shook her head. "Let's wait till Felix is ready," she said quietly. "It's his favorite. If he sees it, he'll get so excited he won't want to finish his carrots."
Soon they were all enjoying chocolate marshmallow bars. "I just thought of another reason God didn't tell us exactly what heaven will be like," Arlo announced with a grin. "If we knew, we'd probably get so excited we wouldn't be able to focus on what God wants us to do on earth now."
"Like Felix wouldn't have been able to finish his carrots if he knew what dessert was coming," Mom said. "We just need to trust that spending eternity with Jesus will be better than anything we can imagine!"
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you ever wonder what heaven will be like? The Bible tells us some things about it, but we won't really know what God has in store for us until we get there. But even though we don't know exactly what heaven will be like, we know it will be perfect because of who we'll be with--Jesus! We will be whole and full of joy because we'll be with Him. Look forward to spending eternity with Jesus, and help more people know about Him now so they can be with Him forever too.
Today's Key Verse:
In Your presence is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore. (NKJV) (Psalm 16:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Heaven will be wonderful
Bible Reading: Hebrews 10:22-25
Dorian's remote control car zipped down the driveway. He pushed a lever on the control box to turn the car around and guide it back to the garage. "Ready, Dad?" Dorian asked as his father came out with a similar car in his hand. "Let's hit the parking lot!"
When they reached the nearby parking lot, a couple of boys were already there. "That's okay. There's room for all of us," Dad said, and he and Dorian went to the far end, away from the others.
They had a good time. Dad made his model jump off the curb, somersault, and flip back onto its tires. Dorian skidded his through some dirt, turning it sharply to catch up with Dad's car. But then he had a problem. "Dad! My car is going crazy! I can't control it!"
Dad watched for a moment. "I think it's too far away to receive your signals. Look--it's too close to those other boys and must be on the same frequency as one of their cars. I think it's following the directions one of them is giving."
Just then one of the boys saw what was happening with Dorian's car. "I'll send it back to you," he called. Soon Dorian was able to control his car again.
"What happened there reminds me of how important it is for Christians to stay focused on the right source of guidance in our lives," Dad said. "If we get too distracted by the things of this world, we can be influenced in the wrong direction. But if we delight in God, He will keep our lives on the right path."
Dorian looked at his car and made it turn sharply as it nearly bumped into a curb. "I understand, Dad. I want my life to follow Jesus's way!"
"Me too," said Dad. "As Christians, we have the Holy Spirit to guide us, and He often does that by communicating God's truth and love to us at church and as we pray and read His Word. Let's focus on the help He offers us and trust Him to lead us in the right direction."
-Nance E. Keyes
How About You?
Are you easily distracted from God? Nothing this world has to offer can compare to the love, hope, and joy found in Jesus. Make Him the focus of your life. Take time today to pray about finding ways to make God's truth--found in the Bible--central to the way you live. As Christians, we have God's Holy Spirit, and we can trust Him to remind us of His truth, love, and promises. Delight in Him, and He will strengthen you spiritually.
Today's Key Verse:
Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (NKJV) (James 4:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Focus on Jesus
Bible Reading: Jeremiah 29:12; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
Kenya ran to her room and quietly shut her door. Kneeling beside her bed, she began to pray.
One thing Kenya had learned from her grandma was how to pray. She had watched her grandma pray many times. If someone was sick, Grandma prayed. If someone was hurt, Grandma prayed. If someone was sad, Grandma prayed. If everything was awesome, Grandma prayed.
Kenya loved God, and she knew that God loved her too. She knew He cared about everything that was going on her life.
"Dear God, thank You for loving me and for listening to me when I pray. I'm so glad I can trust in You. My grandma is having surgery this morning. Please keep her safe and help her new knee work better for her. In Jesus's name I pray, amen!"
Kenya bounded out of her room and ran outside to play. She knew that God had heard her prayer and that He was taking care of her grandma.
"Kenya, Grandma is on the phone," Mom called to her later that day.
Kenya came running and took Mom's cell phone. "Hi, Grandma. How are you feeling? I prayed for you this morning."
"I could feel your prayers. Thank you for praying for me. The surgery went well and I will be able to leave the hospital soon."
"Yay! I can't wait to see you, Grandma. I love you!"
"I love you too, Kenya."
During devotions that evening, Kenya and her parents talked about prayer. "Isn't it awesome that God wants to have fellowship with us?" said Dad. "He is a personal God. He cares about each one of us individually. He wanted to have a relationship with us so much that Jesus died for us so we could have eternal life with Him. We can pray to Him anytime, and He will listen to us and let us know He cares."
Kenya smiled when Dad asked her to pray. "Dear God, thank You for loving us so much that you would want to talk to us. Thank you for caring about our concerns and worries. Help us keep our eyes on You and to listen and obey. In Jesus's name I pray, amen!"
"Amen!" Mom and Dad said in unison.
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Do you pray? Prayer is talking to God. You can talk to Him anytime and anywhere about anything that's on your mind. You can share your worries with Him, and you can thank Him for good things in your life. God wants to have fellowship with you--He wants you to talk to Him and know He's listening. He loves you and cares about your concerns. Spend time talking to God today and remember to thank Him for all He has done.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth. (NLT) (Psalm 145:18 )
Today's Key Thought:
God listens when you pray
Bible Reading: Genesis 1:26-27; Romans 5:8
"Hi, Mom. Can we have a cookie?" asked Eloise, and Mom nodded. "There was a new girl at school today," Eloise said as she and her brother Jacob grabbed a chocolate chip cookie from a package in the cupboard. "You should see her. She is so short!"
"Yeah. She looks like she belongs in kindergarten," said Jacob. "Maybe she's an alien from outer space." Both kids erupted into giggles.
Mom looked at them sternly. Before she could say anything, Eloise took a picture out of her backpack. "Look what I drew for art," she said, quickly changing the subject to avoid the lecture she knew Mom was about to give. "My teacher said it's really good."
Jacob munched on his cookie as he studied the drawing of a farmyard. He grinned. "Look at this pig." He pointed and laughed. "The legs are too short for its body and its ears are too long. And look at that horse!" Jacob laughed louder. "He's even worse than the pig. His face looks more like a cow's!"
"Mooom," whined Eloise. "Jacob's making fun of me!"
"I'm not making fun of you," Jacob said, seeing Mom's frown. "I'm just making fun of this picture--not you!"
"I drew the picture, so you're making fun of me too!" Eloise cried, grabbing the picture back.
"Eloise is right," Mom said. "If you make fun of a picture, you're making fun of who created it."
"Sorry," Jacob mumbled. "I was just teasing."
Mom paused for a moment. "Here's something for both of you to think about. If you make fun of people--like the new girl at school--because of the way they were created, who are you making fun of?"
Both Eloise and Jacob looked startled. "God, I guess," Jacob replied.
"Exactly. Every person is created by God and is special," said Mom. "Every person is loved by Him--loved so much that Jesus died on the cross for them. Never make fun of other kids because of the way God made them. Remember how you'd feel if someone made fun of something you made."
Eloise looked at her picture again. "Don't worry," she said. "I'll remember."
"Yeah," Jacob agreed. "Me too."
-A. W. Smith
How About You?
Have you ever made fun of other kids because of their looks? God made every person in the world, and each one is unique and special. Jesus loves each one of us so much He died on the cross so we could live with Him forever. If you make fun of the way someone looks, you're not just hurting them, you're making fun of how God created that person. Remember God created and loves each person and treat all people with respect.
Today's Key Verse:
I praise You because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. (NIV) (Psalm 139:14 )
Today's Key Thought:
Every person is special
Bible Reading: Isaiah 61:1-3; Hebrews 1:8-9
"Dad, can I use your oil can to get rid of the squeak in the cupboard doors?" Jayden asked. "Mom said I could oil the hinges. If they don't get oiled soon, the squeaking is going to drive her crazy."
Dad laughed as he took the oil can from the workbench and handed it to Jayden. "Then by all means, take it away!" he said.
When Jayden returned the oil can some time later, Dad was still at his workbench. "I oiled the hinges all over the house," Jayden said. "I told Mom that if she hears any squeaks now, she'll know we have mice. She says that would really drive her crazy." They both laughed, and then Jayden went out to play basketball with his friends.
At dinner that evening, Jayden shared the neighborhood news. "Troy and Kai are mad at each other again," he said. "And did you know that Mrs. Gentry broke her arm? She fell down her front steps." Jayden helped himself to a piece of ham. "And Mr. Gomez stood at his window for half an hour and watched us play basketball. I guess he doesn't have anything better to do." Jayden nibbled his salad.
"It sounds like the people in our neighborhood could use some oil," Dad observed.
"Oil?" asked Jayden. "What do you mean?"
"The Bible says Jesus gives the 'oil of joy' to those who trust in Him, and it sounds like some of our neighbors could use a little joy in their lives," Dad replied. "I think it would be nice if you spread some oil of joy around the neighborhood."
"Yeah?" Jayden scratched his head. "I know one thing I can do. I can offer to rake leaves for Mrs. Gentry. I don't know what I can do about Troy and Kai though--but I'll think of something!" Jayden eyed the dessert on the counter. "Can I take a piece of pie to Mr. Gomez?" he asked. Then he grinned. "And I better take an extra piece so I can sit down and eat with him!"
Dad nodded. "Those all sound like good ways to spread the joy of Jesus and remind others of His love for them."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you spreading joy? The Bible says Jesus was anointed with the "oil of joy." If you belong to Him, you can have that same joy in your heart too. Will you share it with others? Offer a kind word to help someone feel better. Take a few minutes to chat with a neighbor who lives alone. Lend a helping hand to take the hardship out of somebody's day. Let the joy you have in Jesus point people to Him.
Today's Key Verse:
I will give them the oil of joy instead of sorrow, and a spirit of praise instead of a spirit of no hope. (NLV) (Isaiah 61:3)
Today's Key Thought:
Spread joy
Bible Reading: Psalm 145:6, 10-12
Drake was thinking as he slowly walked home after school. I had a perfect chance to tell Liam about Jesus when he asked why I always go to church. I should have told him I'm a Christian and that Jesus saved me. But I just shrugged and changed the subject. Drake sighed. I wish I could talk about Jesus, but I never know what to say. I feel like a failure!
That evening, Drake heard the sound of a voice coming from his older sister's room. Who is Melanie talking to? he wondered. He went to see who was there and was surprised to find his sister alone. Melanie was standing in front of the mirror, talking out loud. "What are you doing?" asked Drake.
Melanie turned around and laughed. "Practicing," she said. "Remember when I first started speech class? I hated it. I was scared to get up in front of class, but you know what? I kind of like it now!"
"Aren't you scared anymore?" Drake asked.
Melanie shrugged. "A little, but I'm taking my teacher's advice. He said that just like you have to practice in order to play a musical instrument, you have to practice to become a good speaker. He told us to practice, practice, practice, so I do." Melanie turned around. "I always practice in front of the mirror now so I can see how I look and what gestures I should use. I know I may never be a great speaker, but at least I'm getting better at expressing what I want to say." She grinned at her brother. "You can stay and listen to my speech if you want to."
"Thanks," said Drake, "but I think I'll pass." He walked away as Melanie began her speech again.
Practice, Drake thought as he went to his own room. That's what I should do too.
When Melanie passed Drake's room a little later, he was standing in front of his mirror. "I'm a Christian," Drake said. "Can I tell you about it?" He cleared his throat. "I'm a Christian," he repeated. "I believe in Jesus…" Melanie smiled and walked down the hall as Drake continued to practice what he might say if someone asked why he went to church.
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you afraid to tell others you know Jesus? Do you have trouble knowing what to say? Practice at home--try talking to yourself in front of a mirror. Then, when you've gotten used to the sound of your own voice talking about God, you may want to practice with a friend or parent. It may seem strange at first, but try it. And then speak up about Jesus whenever you have a chance. Tell others what He's done for you!
Today's Key Verse:
My mouth shall speak the praise of the Lord. (NKJV) (Psalm 145:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Practice speaking up for Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-39
Patting the front pocket of his backpack and finding nothing, Nathaniel searched all the other pockets. "Caleb, I lost it!" he said, his heart sinking.
Caleb frowned. "What did you lose now?" he asked his friend.
"The little leather Bible my dad gave me for my birthday. He had my name engraved on the front, so it means a lot to me. I shouldn't have taken it to school."
"Probably not, the way you lose things!" agreed Caleb.
When Nathaniel reached his house, he went to the kitchen to find his mom. He was surprised to see his dad there too. "I didn't know you were home," said Nathaniel. "Your car's not in the garage."
"I lost my car keys, so one of the guys at my office brought me home to get another set," Dad explained. "He's waiting out front."
Just then Olivia burst through the back door. "It's terrible!" she wailed. "I'm losing my best friend! Marissa just told me they're moving to Arizona next month."
"Wow!" said Nathaniel. "Dad lost his keys, Olivia is losing a friend, and I lost my new Bible. We're all losing things today. How about you, Mom? Did you lose anything?"
Mom laughed. "Not me! At least not today," she replied. "As your grandma used to say, it's a good thing your heads are fastened on, or you'd lose them too!"
"Yeah!" exclaimed Olivia. "That would be bad."
Dad smiled. "Well, I'm glad there are also some other things--very important things--that we can never lose," he said.
"Like what?" Olivia asked.
"Like the love of God," Dad replied. "God's amazing love is always ours. And how about our salvation? Because God loves us, He offers eternal life to us through Jesus Christ. Anyone who trusts in Jesus is saved from sin and becomes God's child, and nothing can ever separate us from Him."
"Hey, yeah," said Nathaniel. "So even though we lose things, we can't ever lose the really important stuff!"
Olivia nodded as she placed her bag on the table. Then, seeing a strange bulge in the front pocket, she unzipped it. "Hey, Nathaniel," she said. "What's your Bible doing in my backpack?"
-Harriett A. Durrell
How About You?
Do you ever lose things? It's inconvenient if you lose a book, a homework assignment, your favorite baseball cap, or some other thing you're fond of or use regularly. Aren't you glad you'll never lose the most important things--God's love and the hope you have in Jesus? If you trust in Jesus, nothing can ever separate you from Him. You can count on Him for the rest of your life and for all eternity!
Today's Key Verse:
Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NLT) (Romans 8:39)
Today's Key Thought:
God's love is forever
Bible Reading: Isaiah 53:3-6; Romans 5:1, 6-8
Raelyn reached for a bowl of nuts. She took a pecan and placed it between the jaws of a nutcracker. "Mom, in Sunday school yesterday, we had a lesson on hell," she said in a troubled voice. "It scared me. What if I go there when I die?"
"Hell is a scary place," agreed Mom. "God created it for the devil and his angels. People who refuse to trust Jesus as their Savior will join them there."
Raelyn's brother Andy spoke up. "But if you trust Jesus to forgive you and wash your sins away, you'll go to heaven instead."
"I've trusted Jesus as my Savior," Raelyn said slowly, "but I still worry about hell sometimes." She held the pecan carefully as she squeezed the nutcracker. But the nut slipped away, and the jaws of the nutcracker closed on her finger. "Ouch!" she wailed. She tossed the nutcracker into the bowl. "I don't want to crack nuts anymore," Raelyn said, nursing her finger. "That hurt!"
"You're scared of a little nutcracker?" Andy asked. "Not me! Watch!" He grinned as he put his finger between the jaws of the nutcracker. Then he put a book beside his finger. "Go ahead--squeeze it," he said, holding out his hand. Raelyn obliged, but the book kept the nutcracker jaws open. Andy laughed. "See, it doesn't even hurt!"
"The book took all the pressure Andy should have felt when he stuck his finger in the nutcracker," Mom observed. "That's a pretty good example of what Jesus does for us."
"I think I get what you're saying," said Andy. "We all sin and deserve to be punished for the wrong things we've done, but when we trust in Jesus, He protects us from hell, sort of like the book protected my finger. Right, Mom?"
Mom nodded. "Andy trusted the book to keep his finger safe, Raelyn, and we can trust Jesus to keep us safe, now and for all eternity. He took the punishment for our sin when He died on the cross so we wouldn't have to. We can have the joy of knowing we won't go to hell. Instead, we'll spend eternity with Jesus."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you worry that you might go to hell? Everyone has sinned and deserves to go to hell, but when Jesus died on the cross, He took that punishment for our sin. If you trust in Him, you don't need to worry about going there. If you haven't trusted Jesus as your Savior, don't wait any longer. Trust in Him right now and experience the joy of having your sins forgiven and knowing you have eternal life. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Christ carried our sins in his body on the cross…By his wounds you were healed. (ERV) (1 Peter 2:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus took your punishment
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:4-12
"Dad!" Quentin ran into the kitchen. "Tell Chloe not to put the little animals in the Noah's ark until the big ones are in. That's how I do it. They fit better that way. Why can't she do things like I do?"
"Because I'm different," argued Chloe, following her brother. "You're always telling me how I should play games or put puzzles together or color or…or do whatever I'm doing. You think everybody has to do things your way!"
"There's more than one good way to do most things, Quentin," Dad said as he put plates on the table. "Now go tell your mom supper is ready." Quentin scowled and went to get his mother.
After prayer, Dad watched as Quentin put various foods on his plate. "Quentin, should I put all that in the blender for you?" asked Dad.
Quentin looked puzzled. "In the blender? Why?"
"The grains of rice, the chicken, and the carrots and broccoli not only look different, they all taste different too. If I put them in the blender, everything will come out looking and tasting the same," Dad explained.
"Yuck! I like them all different," said Quentin.
Dad smiled. "So do I. The differences make the food more interesting and enjoyable. That's true about people too. God didn't make people to be the same, like robots. He gave us different personalities, talents, and abilities."
"Yeah, Quentin," said Chloe. "I'm not the same as you!"
"None of us are the same," said Dad. "God made us all different, and we bring glory to Jesus both individually and as His body of believers, the church, through the different ways we do things and help one another. Don't you think that's a good thing, Quentin? Would you really want everybody to be the same and do everything the same way?"
Mom shook her head in confusion. "Did I miss something here?"
"I think our son is discovering the beauty of having everyone be different," Dad explained. "Right, Quentin?"
"I guess so," Quentin said. Then he grinned. "But there are some things that are better when they're blended."
"Like what?" Chloe asked.
"Milkshakes!" Quentin stated triumphantly.
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you accept people who are different from you? Are you patient with those who do things differently? Remember that all Christians are part of the body of believers. Each part of a body--the hand, the foot, the eye, and so on--looks and functions differently, but each part is important. Similarly, each person looks, thinks, and acts in a different way and has different skills and talents. But each one is precious and important to God.
Today's Key Verse:
In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. (NIV) (Romans 12:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Accept differences in others
Bible Reading: Mark 5:1-20
"Hey, buddy," Dad said to Jamal as he cleared away the lunch dishes, "after I help your mom clean up, let's head over to the park."
"Nah, that's okay," Jamal said quietly. "I don't really want to go."
"That doesn't sound like you," said Dad. "You usually love going to the park. What's up?"
Jamal hesitated, then said, "I heard a couple of ladies talking at church this morning about how difficult it must be for you and Mom to take care of me with my disability. I feel like it's not fair you have to do all these extra things for me that other kids don't need. You have so much to do; it's not worth your time."
Dad put his hand on Jamal's shoulder. "What was our lesson about in Sunday school this morning? And you better remember, because I'm your Sunday school teacher!"
Jamal chuckled. "It was about the demon-possessed man Jesus healed."
"Yes," Dad said, reaching for his Bible. "But there's something significant about that story I didn't have time to talk about this morning. In the chapter before, Jesus spends all day preaching on one side of the lake and then asks His disciples to take Him across the lake in a boat. They endure a terrible storm during the night that Jesus silences with just His words, then arrive safely on the shore where the man is living among the tombs. Then look here--after healing the man, where does Jesus go next?"
Jamal looked at the verse. "Back across the lake."
"That's right. So Jesus took the time, and the disciples' time, and risked all their lives in that storm just to go find one man everyone else had given up on." Dad looked Jamal in the eyes. "Jesus believed that one individual was worth all His time and energy that day. Do you think Jesus feels any differently about you?"
Tears filled Jamal's eyes as he shook his head.
"In fact, Jesus is so sure of your worth that He died on the cross for you," Dad said.
"So what you're saying is, if I'm that important to Jesus, I'm pretty important to you and Mom too, right?"
Dad smiled and called toward the kitchen, "Hey, honey, is Jamal pretty important to us?"
Mom looked up from the dishes and grinned. "You better believe it! Now you two better head to the park before all that good sunshine is wasted!"
-Karen McMillan
How About You?
Do you sometimes have a hard time believing you are worth it? Maybe you feel the stress of others and think you are just too much for them to handle. Jesus never feels that way about you. He created you for a purpose, and He sacrificed His life for you. You are worth loving!
Today's Key Verse:
Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God…Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. (NIV) (Luke 12:6-7)
Today's Key Thought:
You're worth it to Jesus
Bible Reading: John 20:31; 2 Timothy 3:16-17
Friday was Maribel's favorite day of the week! Because on Fridays after school, Maribel and her mom went to the library to look for books. And today was no exception.
As the library doors swooshed open, Maribel breathed in the familiar scent of book pages. She headed over to her favorite section--fiction--and began to take in each of the colorful spines lined along the shelves.
Her mom didn't have a favorite section though. She would go up and down the different aisles, always ending her search with a pile of books about lots of different subjects.
"Mom," asked Maribel as they drove home, "how do they keep track of all the books at the library?"
"They use something called the Dewey Decimal system," Mom said. "There are numbered sections for different subjects and types of books. They have sections for books about history, science, art, travel--anything anyone would want to read about, really."
"Wow!" said Maribel. "That's a lot of different types of books."
"Yes," said Mom. "Did you know that there's a very special type of book that includes a whole library?"
"No way!" said Maribel. "What book is that?"
"It's the Bible," said Mom. "It's made up of many different types of books written by lots of different people who were empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Bible includes history, law, poetry, prophecy, songs, letters, and more!"
"That's so cool!" said Maribel. "How did people know what books to put in the Bible?"
"God is so creative," Mom said. "He guided the people who wrote the books of the Bible in a very special way called 'inspiration.' Then He guided other people in helping choose which books belonged in the Bible, His library. That's how we can know the Bible is true. God wrote it, using human people who trusted in Him and listened to Him. And the people who chose the books in the Bible knew the story of Jesus and listened to the Holy Spirit to figure out which books proclaimed that story well."
"So, if the Bible is a library, then Jesus is the librarian?" asked Maribel.
"Yes," said Mom. "And we can trust Him to tell us His story."
-Kandi Zeller
How About You?
Did you know the Bible has different genres--books on different subjects with different styles of writing? The amazing thing about the Bible is that even though there are lots of different books, genres, and writers, it all tells the same story: Jesus died and rose again to beat sin and death! What questions do you have about the Bible? Talk with your parents, pastor, or another Christian adult about them today.
Today's Key Verse:
He [Jesus] is the one all the prophets testified about, saying that everyone who believes in him will have their sins forgiven through his name. (NLT) (Acts 10:43)
Today's Key Thought:
The Bible is a library
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 15:51-57; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Desperately, Erica tossed items from her closet onto her bedroom floor.
"What's going on?" Mom asked as she walked into the bedroom.
"I have to find them!" Erica cried, digging even faster through toys and clothes in the closet. "It's all I have left of Grandma."
Mom sat down on the bed. "What's all you have left?"
Erica sighed. "I woke up crying this morning because I miss Grandma so much, Mom. And then I realized I've lost all my special gifts from her. The watch from last Christmas? It cracked when I fell on stage during that skit at summer camp. The gold necklace snagged on my sweater, and the chain broke. And you know that starfish tank at the aquarium, where you can reach in and touch them? Well, the bracelet with the purple stones Grandma gave me fell in there on our field trip. Only I didn't notice until we'd gotten home." Erica sniffled. "Now all I have to remember Grandma are the green polka-dotted socks she got me last summer."
Mom looked at the items piled on the floor. "So that's why you're digging through your closet."
Erica nodded and wiped her eyes. "What if I never find those socks?"
Mom scooted closer to Erica. "Honey," she said, "you remember at Grandma's funeral, how Pastor Nate shared about Grandma's love for Jesus--how she had placed her faith in Him as her Savior, trusting Him to forgive her sins and give her eternal life?"
Erica nodded. "Grandma told me a lot about Jesus. She explained that, when we put our faith in Jesus, we live forever with Him. Even after this life is over. Is that right, Mom?"
Mom smiled. "That's exactly what God tells us in the Bible. Those who trust in Jesus and come into His kingdom have eternal life. So, even though Grandma's not here with us now, we know she's with the Lord, and one day, when He comes back, He'll raise her from the dead!"
"And we'll see her again, right? If we put our hope in Jesus, we'll be with Him forever. And with Grandma too," Erica added. "You know, even if I don't find those socks, I think Grandma won't feel too far away."
-Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Have you lost someone close to you? Jesus knows how hard it is to lose a person you love. It's normal and natural to miss family members or friends who have died. But for those who trust in Jesus, death is not the end. In Him, we have eternal life and the promise of resurrection. We can grieve with the hope that we'll be reunited with our loved ones who have trusted in Jesus when this life on earth is over.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus said to her, "I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die." (NIV)
(John 11:25)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus gives His followers eternal life
Bible Reading: Proverbs 15:1, 4; Ephesians 4:29-32
"Hey, Steve! Check out the progress I've made on my coloring book!"
Miffed by his little sister's insistent nudge, Steve barked a quick-tempered, "Not now, Lily! Can't you see I'm trying to sleep?"
"Guys, please try to get along," Mom chimed in. "We'll be at our next stop in just a few hours."
"A few hours? You mean, for all that time, I have a choice between staring at cows or having to comment on coloring technique?"
Just as Steve let out a big sigh, a large dump truck pulled in front of his family's van. He could just make out the words on the back, which read, "Driver not responsible for flying debris. Stay back."
"What?" Steve exclaimed. "Did you see that sign? How can a truck launch a rock or whatever out the back of it and be completely inculpable?"
Dad, using an over-the-shoulder lane check to make brief eye contact with his son, said, "First of all, I can tell you've been working on those vocab words, so well done."
Steve cracked a grin. He'd recently learned that inculpable was another word for innocent or blameless.
"And I'm glad you caught those words on that truck, because they remind me of something that happened just a few moments ago when you snapped at your sister," Dad continued. "I know you're tired. We're all tired and cranky right now, but you chose to throw gentleness out the window because of that. If you think about it, it's not much different from a truck not being responsible for what flies out of it at any moment, right?"
Steve was completely caught off guard. "I…I guess."
Dad smiled in the rearview mirror. "That truck may not claim responsibility for what comes flying out of it, but we're responsible for our words and attitudes toward others. And, because we trust in Jesus, we can control them. We have the power of the Holy Spirit, who helps us speak kind, loving words--even when we're cranky."
Pulling his gaze off a sea of bovines--another vocab word that meant cows--Steve shifted toward his sister. "Lily, I blew it. I let my words fly at you. I'm bored and tired, but that's no excuse for how I spoke to you just now. Will you forgive me?"
"Course!" Lily grinned. "Want a gummy bear?"
-Sara Woodard
How About You?
Have you ever hurled unkind words at someone? Like rocks blown off a truck, flying words can cause serious damage and hurt people. But if you know Jesus, He gives you the power to control your words. Trust Him to help you speak to others with love and kindness--even when you feel tired and cranky.
Today's Key Verse:
The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit. (NIV) (Proverbs 18:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Control your words
Bible Reading: Luke 12:16-24, 30-31; 1 Timothy 6:6-8
"Lucu's food bowl is empty again, Ibu," Ayu called to her mother as she poured some seeds into the hamster's bowl. Lucu was Ayu's first pet, and she was determined to take good care of him.
Seeing more food in his bowl, Lucu immediately ate some. True to his name, Lucu--which meant cute in Indonesian--tucked the seeds into his cheeks. Ayu giggled as Lucu continued to put more seeds in his mouth, giving him round, puffed-up cheeks. But then Lucu went to a secluded corner and buried the food in the bedding of his cage. This went on a few times until there were hardly any seeds left in the bowl.
"Ibu, we need to go buy Lucu some more food--this bag is almost gone. And no wonder!" Ayu exclaimed. "He acts as if his food bowl won't ever be refilled. Doesn't he trust that I will take care of him? I always fill his bowl twice a day."
"Yes, I know you do," Ayu's mom replied. "It's just that hamsters have a natural tendency to store their food away. You should only give him the food he needs for each meal, as hamsters tend to overeat by eating however much you give them." Ibu smiled at her daughter. "Don't we all behave like Lucu from time to time?"
"What do you mean, Ibu? I don't have that much space in my cheeks!" Ayu tried to imitate Lucu's puffed cheeks.
Ibu chuckled. "What I mean is that we don't always trust God to continually take care of us. It's wise to save for rainy days, but often we go beyond that and hoard. We worry and hold on to stuff we want but don't actually need. Meanwhile, God knows exactly what we need and when we need it. Jesus sacrificed His life to make us God's children, and He promises to take care of us. We can trust Him to give us what we need when we need it."
Ayu pondered this. "Kind of like how I'm supposed to portion Lucu's food so he won't overeat?"
"That's right," said Ibu. "God doesn't promise to give us everything we want, but we can trust Him to provide just enough at the right time."
-Ruth Setyadi
How About You?
Do you worry about not having enough? Do you try to feel safe by having more stuff than you need? The things we own can never give us peace--only Jesus can. He's the one who died on the cross and rose again to save us, and He promises to take care of us. Trust Him to provide for every need you have at just the right time.
Today's Key Verse:
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (NIV) (Philippians 4:19 )
Today's Key Thought:
God provides
Bible Reading: Psalm 32:1-5
Gideon was busily sweeping the garage when his dad pulled into the driveway. "Hi, Gideon," Dad said. "What's going on?"
"TJ has chickenpox," Gideon announced, putting the broom away.
"And you?" Dad arched his eyebrows. He knew that when Gideon did work without being asked, it usually meant he had done something wrong.
"Me?" Gideon shrugged. "I'm fine." Dad waited. "I swept the whole garage." Dad still waited. "Oh, and, uh…I sort of hit a baseball through Mr. Weaver's window."
"Sort of?" Dad frowned. "After I told you not to hit balls in the yard?"
"Well, um…yeah." Gideon averted his eyes as they went into the house. "Mr. Weaver got mad. He said he'd call you."
"Hi, Daddy." Four-year-old TJ looked mournful as he sat up on the couch. "I'm sick. I got the chickenpoxes, but I fixed 'em. I sticked bandages on 'em. See?"
Gideon rolled his eyes when he saw his brother. "TJ, how silly can you get! You can't cure chickenpox by covering up the spots! That might hide them a little bit, but it sure won't make them better!"
"That's true," said Dad. "Another thing you shouldn't try to cover up is sin. You can't fix it by being good. So don't try to use good deeds as bandages to cover up your wrongs."
"What do you mean?" asked Gideon.
"I've noticed that when you do something wrong, you often try to cover it by doing a good thing," said Dad. "After you lied to me last week, you raked the leaves. When you disobeyed your mother, you washed dishes. Today you swept the garage as if that would make up for what you did this afternoon."
Gideon dug his toe into the carpet. "I guess I do try to fix things that way sometimes," he said. "When I do something wrong, I feel bad and want to make it better."
"I know," Dad said. "But that's not the way to do it. Jesus is the only one whose goodness can cover our wrongs. We need to confess our sins and trust Him to forgive us. Then we should ask anyone else we've wronged to forgive us too." Dad picked up TJ. "You go to your room and think about it, Gideon, while I take care of this little guy and his stick 'em bandages."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you try to cover up wrong things you do by doing good things? It's great to do good things, but don't ever think those good deeds can cover your sins. It doesn't work that way. You need Jesus to forgive you. The blood He shed when He died on the cross is the only thing that can cover your sins. Confess your sin to Him, and He will forgive you. Then ask anyone else you wronged to forgive you too.
Today's Key Verse:
People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. (NLT)
(Proverbs 28:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Your good deeds can't cover sin
Bible Reading: Psalm 32:1-5
Gideon was busily sweeping the garage when his dad pulled into the driveway. "Hi, Gideon," Dad said. "What's going on?"
"TJ has chickenpox," Gideon announced, putting the broom away.
"And you?" Dad arched his eyebrows. He knew that when Gideon did work without being asked, it usually meant he had done something wrong.
"Me?" Gideon shrugged. "I'm fine." Dad waited. "I swept the whole garage." Dad still waited. "Oh, and, uh…I sort of hit a baseball through Mr. Weaver's window."
"Sort of?" Dad frowned. "After I told you not to hit balls in the yard?"
"Well, um…yeah." Gideon averted his eyes as they went into the house. "Mr. Weaver got mad. He said he'd call you."
"Hi, Daddy." Four-year-old TJ looked mournful as he sat up on the couch. "I'm sick. I got the chickenpoxes, but I fixed 'em. I sticked bandages on 'em. See?"
Gideon rolled his eyes when he saw his brother. "TJ, how silly can you get! You can't cure chickenpox by covering up the spots! That might hide them a little bit, but it sure won't make them better!"
"That's true," said Dad. "Another thing you shouldn't try to cover up is sin. You can't fix it by being good. So don't try to use good deeds as bandages to cover up your wrongs."
"What do you mean?" asked Gideon.
"I've noticed that when you do something wrong, you often try to cover it by doing a good thing," said Dad. "After you lied to me last week, you raked the leaves. When you disobeyed your mother, you washed dishes. Today you swept the garage as if that would make up for what you did this afternoon."
Gideon dug his toe into the carpet. "I guess I do try to fix things that way sometimes," he said. "When I do something wrong, I feel bad and want to make it better."
"I know," Dad said. "But that's not the way to do it. Jesus is the only one whose goodness can cover our wrongs. We need to confess our sins and trust Him to forgive us. Then we should ask anyone else we've wronged to forgive us too." Dad picked up TJ. "You go to your room and think about it, Gideon, while I take care of this little guy and his stick 'em bandages."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you try to cover up wrong things you do by doing good things? It's great to do good things, but don't ever think those good deeds can cover your sins. It doesn't work that way. You need Jesus to forgive you. The blood He shed when He died on the cross is the only thing that can cover your sins. Confess your sin to Him, and He will forgive you. Then ask anyone else you wronged to forgive you too.
Today's Key Verse:
People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. (NLT)
(Proverbs 28:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Your good deeds can't cover sin
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16
Nora sighed. Everybody's doing something, she thought as she listened to the conversation at the table. Everybody but me. Pastor James had come for dinner, and so far the discussion was all about the events their church was putting together to reach people with the gospel. Mom was going to sing with the choir downtown, Dad was in charge of a men's breakfast, and Nora's older brother offered to make posters to advertise the kids' program. Nora pushed her food around on her plate.
I wish I were big enough to help, she thought.
Just then Pastor James turned to Nora. "Do you have any friends you can invite to the kids' program?" he asked.
Nora nodded. "I guess so," she murmured, still wishing she could have a real job like Mom and Dad and her brother did.
As Mom tucked Nora into bed later that night, Nora shared her thoughts. "Honey," said Mom, "inviting friends and praying for them is a real job. It's every bit as important as what any of us are doing."
But Nora wasn't convinced.
"Do you get enough light in your room from your night-light? Or shall I leave the overhead light on?" Mom asked as she turned to leave. "Or I could get a lamp from the living room. Would you like that?"
"No!" exclaimed Nora in surprise. "That would be way too bright and keep me awake. The night-light is perfect."
"So both big lights and small lights are needed, right? And I think they're equally important, don't you?"
"Yep," said Nora. "When I wake up at night, I like the little night-light. But when I read, I need the bigger lights."
Mom nodded. "They just have different purposes. And that's true of people too--and of tasks that need to be done. They're all needed, and big ones and little ones are equally important. They all help more people know about Jesus. And since you know Him as your Savior, you can be a light for Him in whatever tasks He gives you."
Nora thought about that. "Okay. I'll invite my friends to the kids' program." She grinned. "I'll be a night-light for Jesus."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you too young to preach? To organize meetings? To prepare a dinner? That's okay. Someday the Lord may ask you to do those things. But right now, perhaps you--not your parent or your pastor--can be a friend to the new kid at school, or pray for your teacher, or invite your classmates to church. Whatever God asks you to do, be willing to do it. Be a light for Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much. (CSB) (Luke 16:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Your tasks are important
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16
Nora sighed. Everybody's doing something, she thought as she listened to the conversation at the table. Everybody but me. Pastor James had come for dinner, and so far the discussion was all about the events their church was putting together to reach people with the gospel. Mom was going to sing with the choir downtown, Dad was in charge of a men's breakfast, and Nora's older brother offered to make posters to advertise the kids' program. Nora pushed her food around on her plate.
I wish I were big enough to help, she thought.
Just then Pastor James turned to Nora. "Do you have any friends you can invite to the kids' program?" he asked.
Nora nodded. "I guess so," she murmured, still wishing she could have a real job like Mom and Dad and her brother did.
As Mom tucked Nora into bed later that night, Nora shared her thoughts. "Honey," said Mom, "inviting friends and praying for them is a real job. It's every bit as important as what any of us are doing."
But Nora wasn't convinced.
"Do you get enough light in your room from your night-light? Or shall I leave the overhead light on?" Mom asked as she turned to leave. "Or I could get a lamp from the living room. Would you like that?"
"No!" exclaimed Nora in surprise. "That would be way too bright and keep me awake. The night-light is perfect."
"So both big lights and small lights are needed, right? And I think they're equally important, don't you?"
"Yep," said Nora. "When I wake up at night, I like the little night-light. But when I read, I need the bigger lights."
Mom nodded. "They just have different purposes. And that's true of people too--and of tasks that need to be done. They're all needed, and big ones and little ones are equally important. They all help more people know about Jesus. And since you know Him as your Savior, you can be a light for Him in whatever tasks He gives you."
Nora thought about that. "Okay. I'll invite my friends to the kids' program." She grinned. "I'll be a night-light for Jesus."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you too young to preach? To organize meetings? To prepare a dinner? That's okay. Someday the Lord may ask you to do those things. But right now, perhaps you--not your parent or your pastor--can be a friend to the new kid at school, or pray for your teacher, or invite your classmates to church. Whatever God asks you to do, be willing to do it. Be a light for Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much. (CSB) (Luke 16:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Your tasks are important
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:23-24
"Honey, would you grab a cart and get started in the produce aisle? I'll meet you there in a few minutes."
Sunny gave her mom a thumbs-up and got started on the week's grocery list. To her annoyance, she soon realized she'd picked the loudest cart. One of the wheels was stuck, and every time Sunny turned, the squeaky rubber sound made her cringe.
An older gentleman chuckled as he walked by. "Are you trying to start a drag race in here?" he asked. Sunny was hard-pressed to think of a time she'd felt more embarrassed.
"Well, there you are! I don't know how I was ever able to find you!" Mom said, trying not to laugh.
"Mom, I'm so embarrassed! I should've just gone back for another cart." Sunny's blushing cheeks rivaled the apples in the display behind her.
"Aw, honey. It happens to everyone. In fact, do you know what this reminds me of?"
Sunny shook her head, looking around to see if anyone was staring at her.
"Sure, squeaky wheels can be annoying, but they also alert us to problem areas--sort of like how the Lord alerts us to places in our lives where He wants us to grow. Did you know that in the Bible, King David asked God to highlight the places in his heart that didn't line up with who God was making him to be?" Mom knocked on a watermelon. "Just like I'm testing the integrity of this fruit, our good Father wants to make sure we're strong too. David knew this and wanted to know where in his life he needed to grow. We can also ask the Lord to show us where we're weak, but don't be surprised if you start noticing some squeaky areas needing attention."
"Really? Has this happened to you, Mom?"
"You bet! Many times. It's not always easy to get up close and personal with the squeaky places we're not so proud of, but as we turn them over to the Lord, He shapes those weakened areas and helps us become more like Jesus."
"That's pretty cool, Mom. I love that God cares so much about our growth. I think I'll ask Him where I can grow. In the meantime, can we ditch this squeaky cart?"
Laughing, Mom said, "Not before we alert the manager about this busted wheel!"
-Sara Woodard
How About You?
Are you too young to preach? To organize meetings? To prepare a dinner? That's okay. Someday the Lord may ask you to do those things. But right now, perhaps you--not your parent or your pastor--can be a friend to the new kid at school, or pray for your teacher, or invite your classmates to church. Whatever God asks you to do, be willing to do it. Be a light for Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much. (CSB) (Luke 16:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Your tasks are important
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:23-24
"Honey, would you grab a cart and get started in the produce aisle? I'll meet you there in a few minutes."
Sunny gave her mom a thumbs-up and got started on the week's grocery list. To her annoyance, she soon realized she'd picked the loudest cart. One of the wheels was stuck, and every time Sunny turned, the squeaky rubber sound made her cringe.
An older gentleman chuckled as he walked by. "Are you trying to start a drag race in here?" he asked. Sunny was hard-pressed to think of a time she'd felt more embarrassed.
"Well, there you are! I don't know how I was ever able to find you!" Mom said, trying not to laugh.
"Mom, I'm so embarrassed! I should've just gone back for another cart." Sunny's blushing cheeks rivaled the apples in the display behind her.
"Aw, honey. It happens to everyone. In fact, do you know what this reminds me of?"
Sunny shook her head, looking around to see if anyone was staring at her.
"Sure, squeaky wheels can be annoying, but they also alert us to problem areas--sort of like how the Lord alerts us to places in our lives where He wants us to grow. Did you know that in the Bible, King David asked God to highlight the places in his heart that didn't line up with who God was making him to be?" Mom knocked on a watermelon. "Just like I'm testing the integrity of this fruit, our good Father wants to make sure we're strong too. David knew this and wanted to know where in his life he needed to grow. We can also ask the Lord to show us where we're weak, but don't be surprised if you start noticing some squeaky areas needing attention."
"Really? Has this happened to you, Mom?"
"You bet! Many times. It's not always easy to get up close and personal with the squeaky places we're not so proud of, but as we turn them over to the Lord, He shapes those weakened areas and helps us become more like Jesus."
"That's pretty cool, Mom. I love that God cares so much about our growth. I think I'll ask Him where I can grow. In the meantime, can we ditch this squeaky cart?"
Laughing, Mom said, "Not before we alert the manager about this busted wheel!"
-Sara Woodard
How About You?
Are you too young to preach? To organize meetings? To prepare a dinner? That's okay. Someday the Lord may ask you to do those things. But right now, perhaps you--not your parent or your pastor--can be a friend to the new kid at school, or pray for your teacher, or invite your classmates to church. Whatever God asks you to do, be willing to do it. Be a light for Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever is faithful in very little is also faithful in much. (CSB) (Luke 16:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Your tasks are important
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:6-8
At the breakfast table, Everly plopped down across from her brother Anthony. "I had another nightmare last night," she said with a sigh.
Anthony looked up from his cereal. "The one about a giant, hairy bat with a gazillion bulging eyes--like the creature in that movie you saw?"
"Yep," Everly said wearily. "That's the one."
"What's the big deal, Everly?" asked Anthony. "Why don't you just forget that thing? You shouldn't think about it right before you go to sleep. In fact, if I were you, I wouldn't think about it anymore at all!"
"Are you sure about that, Anthony? Let's try something," said Mom. "Right now, I want you to not think about a walrus wearing a red polka-dot swimsuit." She paused. Then she asked, "What are you thinking of?"
"Um, well…" Anthony sighed, figuring he'd might as well tell the truth. "In my mind, I see a walrus splashing around in the water wearing a really funny-looking swimsuit."
"Exactly! Just saying you won't think about something isn't enough," said Mom. "If you really want to stop thinking about it, try replacing those thoughts with something else."
"Like what?" Anthony asked.
"How about something that's beautiful?" Mom suggested.
"Like the woods around Grandma's cottage?" asked Everly.
"Or a humongous pepperoni pizza?" asked Anthony with a chuckle. "Now that's beautiful!"
Mom laughed. "Yes, both of those pictures are beautiful in their own way. Another idea is to think about a good story or song--maybe something you learned at church. Or try to think of a Bible verse that begins with the letter A, then B, and so on. That will help you remember the beautiful truth that you belong to Jesus, who is more powerful than anything bad you could ever think of."
"So it's kind of like crowding out the bad with the good, right?" asked Everly.
"You've got the idea," said Mom. "Crowd out those bad thoughts with good things."
Everly nodded. "Okay. Tonight when I go to bed, I'm going to try it." She grinned. "I know! Before I go to sleep, I'll try to think of Bible characters starting with all the letters of the alphabet--all the way from Andrew to Zacchaeus!"
-Mike Dize
How About You?
Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts that pop into your head? When you try not to think those thoughts, do you end up thinking about them even more? Replace them with better thoughts instead. Try counting your blessings, naming some from A to Z. See how many Bible stories you can remember. Share your scary thoughts with Jesus so He can remind you He is more powerful than they are. Let the beauty of His truth and love crowd out unwanted thoughts.
Today's Key Verse:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. (NLT) (Psalm 139:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Replace unwanted thoughts
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:6-8
At the breakfast table, Everly plopped down across from her brother Anthony. "I had another nightmare last night," she said with a sigh.
Anthony looked up from his cereal. "The one about a giant, hairy bat with a gazillion bulging eyes--like the creature in that movie you saw?"
"Yep," Everly said wearily. "That's the one."
"What's the big deal, Everly?" asked Anthony. "Why don't you just forget that thing? You shouldn't think about it right before you go to sleep. In fact, if I were you, I wouldn't think about it anymore at all!"
"Are you sure about that, Anthony? Let's try something," said Mom. "Right now, I want you to not think about a walrus wearing a red polka-dot swimsuit." She paused. Then she asked, "What are you thinking of?"
"Um, well…" Anthony sighed, figuring he'd might as well tell the truth. "In my mind, I see a walrus splashing around in the water wearing a really funny-looking swimsuit."
"Exactly! Just saying you won't think about something isn't enough," said Mom. "If you really want to stop thinking about it, try replacing those thoughts with something else."
"Like what?" Anthony asked.
"How about something that's beautiful?" Mom suggested.
"Like the woods around Grandma's cottage?" asked Everly.
"Or a humongous pepperoni pizza?" asked Anthony with a chuckle. "Now that's beautiful!"
Mom laughed. "Yes, both of those pictures are beautiful in their own way. Another idea is to think about a good story or song--maybe something you learned at church. Or try to think of a Bible verse that begins with the letter A, then B, and so on. That will help you remember the beautiful truth that you belong to Jesus, who is more powerful than anything bad you could ever think of."
"So it's kind of like crowding out the bad with the good, right?" asked Everly.
"You've got the idea," said Mom. "Crowd out those bad thoughts with good things."
Everly nodded. "Okay. Tonight when I go to bed, I'm going to try it." She grinned. "I know! Before I go to sleep, I'll try to think of Bible characters starting with all the letters of the alphabet--all the way from Andrew to Zacchaeus!"
-Mike Dize
How About You?
Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts that pop into your head? When you try not to think those thoughts, do you end up thinking about them even more? Replace them with better thoughts instead. Try counting your blessings, naming some from A to Z. See how many Bible stories you can remember. Share your scary thoughts with Jesus so He can remind you He is more powerful than they are. Let the beauty of His truth and love crowd out unwanted thoughts.
Today's Key Verse:
Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. (NLT) (Psalm 139:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Replace unwanted thoughts
Bible Reading: Isaiah 61:10; Revelation 19:5-9
Olive and Elliot were excited about the costume party their youth group was going to have. There was going to be a prize for the best homemade character costume.
"I hope I win first prize," Olive said as she worked on her princess costume. She showed Elliot a little paper crown decorated with beads. "Do you like my jeweled tiara?"
"Nice!" said Elliot. "I just finished making a hat for my Robin Hood costume." He proudly displayed his handiwork.
Olive grinned. "Well, if I don't win, I hope you do!"
When they got dressed for the party later that week, Mom looked them over. "You both look great," she said. "I'd give each of you a prize."
After the party, Olive and Elliot rushed into the house. "Guess what?" Elliot exclaimed. "We both won! The judges couldn't decide which costume was best, so they said it was a tie."
"Yeah." Olive nodded. "I guess we kinda hogged the prizes. I almost feel guilty." She giggled. "Almost, but not quite!"
"Well, I'm glad you kids had fun," said Mom.
"We did," said Elliot. "And we even learned something too! Pastor Perry talked about all the work that went into costumes for this one evening of fun. Then he said we should make sure we have the right clothes for something even more important. He said the Bible talks about being clothed with salvation and righteousness."
Olive nodded. "When we trust Jesus to save us from sin, we're covered with His goodness, and that makes us acceptable in God's sight. In that sense, Jesus gives us the clothes we need to have eternal life with Him."
"That's right," said Mom. "Those are the clothes that really matter. We're so often concerned about what we wear to school or work or even a costume party, but it's much more important to make sure we have the right clothes for eternity. We need Jesus to cover us with His goodness and grace."
"Olive and I are both dressed for eternity," said Elliot.
"Yep. We both know Jesus!" Olive tugged at her princess dress. "But right now, I'm ready to change out of this costume and put on my pajamas."
Mom nodded. "Good night, Robin Hood and Princess Olive."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you put a lot of thought into what you wear to school or to a costume party? That's fine, but don't forget about the most important outfit of all. You need Jesus to clothe you in salvation and righteousness--you need Him to save you from sin and give you His goodness. Trust in Him so you'll have the right clothes for eternity. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. (NLT) (Isaiah 61:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Be dressed for eternity
Bible Reading: Isaiah 61:10; Revelation 19:5-9
Olive and Elliot were excited about the costume party their youth group was going to have. There was going to be a prize for the best homemade character costume.
"I hope I win first prize," Olive said as she worked on her princess costume. She showed Elliot a little paper crown decorated with beads. "Do you like my jeweled tiara?"
"Nice!" said Elliot. "I just finished making a hat for my Robin Hood costume." He proudly displayed his handiwork.
Olive grinned. "Well, if I don't win, I hope you do!"
When they got dressed for the party later that week, Mom looked them over. "You both look great," she said. "I'd give each of you a prize."
After the party, Olive and Elliot rushed into the house. "Guess what?" Elliot exclaimed. "We both won! The judges couldn't decide which costume was best, so they said it was a tie."
"Yeah." Olive nodded. "I guess we kinda hogged the prizes. I almost feel guilty." She giggled. "Almost, but not quite!"
"Well, I'm glad you kids had fun," said Mom.
"We did," said Elliot. "And we even learned something too! Pastor Perry talked about all the work that went into costumes for this one evening of fun. Then he said we should make sure we have the right clothes for something even more important. He said the Bible talks about being clothed with salvation and righteousness."
Olive nodded. "When we trust Jesus to save us from sin, we're covered with His goodness, and that makes us acceptable in God's sight. In that sense, Jesus gives us the clothes we need to have eternal life with Him."
"That's right," said Mom. "Those are the clothes that really matter. We're so often concerned about what we wear to school or work or even a costume party, but it's much more important to make sure we have the right clothes for eternity. We need Jesus to cover us with His goodness and grace."
"Olive and I are both dressed for eternity," said Elliot.
"Yep. We both know Jesus!" Olive tugged at her princess dress. "But right now, I'm ready to change out of this costume and put on my pajamas."
Mom nodded. "Good night, Robin Hood and Princess Olive."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you put a lot of thought into what you wear to school or to a costume party? That's fine, but don't forget about the most important outfit of all. You need Jesus to clothe you in salvation and righteousness--you need Him to save you from sin and give you His goodness. Trust in Him so you'll have the right clothes for eternity. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
I am overwhelmed with joy in the Lord my God! For he has dressed me with the clothing of salvation and draped me in a robe of righteousness. (NLT) (Isaiah 61:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Be dressed for eternity
Bible Reading: John 15:12-15; Romans 5:6-8
Ethan was so excited. He and his dad were at a basketball game, and Ethan hoped to get close enough to his hero--Jordan Williams--to speak with him. In Ethan's mind, Jordan was the greatest basketball player of all time. Ethan knew all the stats about Jordan. He hadn't missed a single televised game. He had sent Jordan scores of messages on his website, but he hadn't received a reply…yet. Jordan is a very busy guy, Ethan told himself. I'm sure he'll answer me after the season is over.
"Dad, can I go stand over there?" asked Ethan, pointing to a group of people standing close to the place where the players would enter. Dad nodded, and Ethan not only joined the group, but squeezed to the front of the crowd. Suddenly, they cheered as the team ran out. One by one the players ran by, waving.
Jordan is going to run right past here, Ethan realized. "Jordan!" he called. "Hey, Jordan! It's me, Ethan!" Ethan thrust his hand up for a high five, but Jordan ran past, not even noticing him. "He ran right by! He didn't even look at me!" exclaimed Ethan, feeling crushed.
A teenager standing behind him snorted. "What did you expect, kid? He's a celebrity. He doesn't know you." The teenager continued to chuckle as Ethan slowly walked back to his dad.
"Hey, buddy, what's wrong?" Dad asked. "You did see your hero run by, didn't you?"
"Yeah," said Ethan. "But even after all the messages I sent, he doesn't know who I am."
"Well, he's only human," said Dad. "He can't possibly know all his fans, even though they feel like they know him. But if he did know you, I'm sure he'd want to be your friend." He patted Ethan's shoulder. "That's the trouble with human heroes."
"What other kind is there?" Ethan asked, looking sad.
"There's Jesus!" replied Dad. "He's the greatest hero and the best friend anyone could ever have. And He knows you, buddy! He knows everything about you--and the best part of all is that He loves you. He loves you so much He became human and died on the cross to save you. He's the hero who will never let you down because He's not only human--He's also God."
-Beverly J. Porter
How About You?
Who do you admire? Do you think talent or lots of money or a big online following make a person great? The world is full of all sorts of heroes and celebrities, but there is only one person who is truly worthy of your praise--Jesus. He cares about you, and He died and rose again so you could live with Him forever! He is a true hero and a true friend.
Today's Key Verse:
No one can have greater love than to give his life for his friends. (NLV) (John 15:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Make Jesus your hero
Bible Reading: John 15:12-15; Romans 5:6-8
Ethan was so excited. He and his dad were at a basketball game, and Ethan hoped to get close enough to his hero--Jordan Williams--to speak with him. In Ethan's mind, Jordan was the greatest basketball player of all time. Ethan knew all the stats about Jordan. He hadn't missed a single televised game. He had sent Jordan scores of messages on his website, but he hadn't received a reply…yet. Jordan is a very busy guy, Ethan told himself. I'm sure he'll answer me after the season is over.
"Dad, can I go stand over there?" asked Ethan, pointing to a group of people standing close to the place where the players would enter. Dad nodded, and Ethan not only joined the group, but squeezed to the front of the crowd. Suddenly, they cheered as the team ran out. One by one the players ran by, waving.
Jordan is going to run right past here, Ethan realized. "Jordan!" he called. "Hey, Jordan! It's me, Ethan!" Ethan thrust his hand up for a high five, but Jordan ran past, not even noticing him. "He ran right by! He didn't even look at me!" exclaimed Ethan, feeling crushed.
A teenager standing behind him snorted. "What did you expect, kid? He's a celebrity. He doesn't know you." The teenager continued to chuckle as Ethan slowly walked back to his dad.
"Hey, buddy, what's wrong?" Dad asked. "You did see your hero run by, didn't you?"
"Yeah," said Ethan. "But even after all the messages I sent, he doesn't know who I am."
"Well, he's only human," said Dad. "He can't possibly know all his fans, even though they feel like they know him. But if he did know you, I'm sure he'd want to be your friend." He patted Ethan's shoulder. "That's the trouble with human heroes."
"What other kind is there?" Ethan asked, looking sad.
"There's Jesus!" replied Dad. "He's the greatest hero and the best friend anyone could ever have. And He knows you, buddy! He knows everything about you--and the best part of all is that He loves you. He loves you so much He became human and died on the cross to save you. He's the hero who will never let you down because He's not only human--He's also God."
-Beverly J. Porter
How About You?
Who do you admire? Do you think talent or lots of money or a big online following make a person great? The world is full of all sorts of heroes and celebrities, but there is only one person who is truly worthy of your praise--Jesus. He cares about you, and He died and rose again so you could live with Him forever! He is a true hero and a true friend.
Today's Key Verse:
No one can have greater love than to give his life for his friends. (NLV) (John 15:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Make Jesus your hero
Bible Reading: James 4:6-10
As Avi came into the kitchen, he spied a plate with an assortment of candies on the counter. Oh! That candy looks so good! He glanced at the clock. He wasn't allowed to have snacks this close to dinnertime, but Mom had gone upstairs. Avi walked closer and looked at the candy again. Then he reached out and picked up a piece. This one's green. I wonder if it's mint. He smelled it, then broke off a tiny corner and tasted it. It was as good as it looked. Soon the whole thing was gone.
I've gotta try a little piece of fudge too, Avi decided. It was delicious, and when that was gone, Avi tried some peanut brittle. Before he knew it, he had eaten a few more pieces of candy. He moved the remaining ones around a little so the plate wouldn't look quite so empty. Then he went to his room.
When Avi came to the dinner table a short time later, he glanced at the kitchen counter. The candy plate wasn't in sight, but after everyone had eaten, Mom said, "Wait till you see what our neighbors gave us." She went to the kitchen and brought back the plate of candies. "Mrs. Jeong made these," said Mom. "I thought this plate was fuller, but isn't it lovely? Let's have some for dessert."
Avi tried to ooh and aah with the rest of the family, but he felt so guilty--and full! When the plate came to him, tears filled Avi's eyes. "I can't eat any more," he said, and the story spilled out. "I'm sorry," Avi said when he finished. "I didn't mean to. I was only going to look at it."
Mom nodded. "Avi, do you see how you gave in to temptation little by little--how looking led to handling and smelling and tasting and eating? That's how Satan works. He gets you to give in just a little at a time so it doesn't seem so bad. He does that with other things that tempt us too--not just with candy. We need to resist Satan, and the best way to do that is to remember we belong to Jesus, who has freed us from sin and given us the power to say no to temptation, and refuse to take even one small peek."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are there things you're tempted to do that don't seem all that bad? Like watch just the beginning of a movie your parents told you not to watch? Or take just a peek at suggestive pictures on the Internet? Be very careful! Satan wants you to try just a little. He knows you might try a little more the next time. But if you know Jesus, Satan has no power over you, and you can resist him. Say no to sin right from the start.
Today's Key Verse:
Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. (NKJV) (James 4:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Resist temptation
Bible Reading: James 4:6-10
As Avi came into the kitchen, he spied a plate with an assortment of candies on the counter. Oh! That candy looks so good! He glanced at the clock. He wasn't allowed to have snacks this close to dinnertime, but Mom had gone upstairs. Avi walked closer and looked at the candy again. Then he reached out and picked up a piece. This one's green. I wonder if it's mint. He smelled it, then broke off a tiny corner and tasted it. It was as good as it looked. Soon the whole thing was gone.
I've gotta try a little piece of fudge too, Avi decided. It was delicious, and when that was gone, Avi tried some peanut brittle. Before he knew it, he had eaten a few more pieces of candy. He moved the remaining ones around a little so the plate wouldn't look quite so empty. Then he went to his room.
When Avi came to the dinner table a short time later, he glanced at the kitchen counter. The candy plate wasn't in sight, but after everyone had eaten, Mom said, "Wait till you see what our neighbors gave us." She went to the kitchen and brought back the plate of candies. "Mrs. Jeong made these," said Mom. "I thought this plate was fuller, but isn't it lovely? Let's have some for dessert."
Avi tried to ooh and aah with the rest of the family, but he felt so guilty--and full! When the plate came to him, tears filled Avi's eyes. "I can't eat any more," he said, and the story spilled out. "I'm sorry," Avi said when he finished. "I didn't mean to. I was only going to look at it."
Mom nodded. "Avi, do you see how you gave in to temptation little by little--how looking led to handling and smelling and tasting and eating? That's how Satan works. He gets you to give in just a little at a time so it doesn't seem so bad. He does that with other things that tempt us too--not just with candy. We need to resist Satan, and the best way to do that is to remember we belong to Jesus, who has freed us from sin and given us the power to say no to temptation, and refuse to take even one small peek."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are there things you're tempted to do that don't seem all that bad? Like watch just the beginning of a movie your parents told you not to watch? Or take just a peek at suggestive pictures on the Internet? Be very careful! Satan wants you to try just a little. He knows you might try a little more the next time. But if you know Jesus, Satan has no power over you, and you can resist him. Say no to sin right from the start.
Today's Key Verse:
Submit to God. Resist the devil and he will flee from you. (NKJV) (James 4:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Resist temptation
Bible Reading: Romans 1:15-16
Rodrigo stood in his front yard, tossing a baseball into the air. He grinned as his friend pulled up on his bike. "Hey, Damon!"
"Hey!" Damon stopped and kicked the bike stand into place. He handed Rodrigo a small present. "Happy birthday!"
"Thanks!" Rodrigo grinned. "I also got this new mitt from my grandparents. No balls are going to get away from me now!"
"Cool," said Damon. "I could really use a mitt like that."
"And my brother gave me this baseball, and Mom and Dad gave me a scooter."
"Wow!" Damon flopped down on the lawn. "I could use all those things."
Rodrigo laughed. "Sorry, but your birthday isn't for another six months! But I'll share the gifts I got with you." Suddenly, he remembered he had never shared with his friend about another gift he'd recently received--the gift of eternal life. I should tell Damon about that, he thought. It's a gift he can have too.
Rodrigo took a deep breath and sat down on the grass next to Damon. "I got another gift I really want to share with you." He paused and said a silent prayer asking God to help him say what he needed to. "It's a gift from God."
Damon gave him a questioning look. "What kind of gift?"
"A few months ago, Riley invited me to come to vacation Bible school at his church. The teacher there explained how Jesus, God's Son, died to take the punishment for our wrongs and then rose from the dead. If we trust in Him, He gives us the gift of eternal life. I decided to accept that gift, and…" Rodrigo paused. "I just wanted you to know you can have it too. It's way better than any other gift you could ever get! I go to Riley's church every week now, and you can come with me sometime to learn more about Jesus if you want to."
Damon picked at the blades of grass at his feet. "Maybe I will. I've heard of Jesus, but I don't really know much about Him." He nodded at the unopened present Rodrigo was still holding. "Well, what are you waiting for? Open your gift!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Have you received God's gift of eternal life through Jesus? If you know Jesus as your Savior, He's given you that gift. He's forgiven you for the wrong things you've done and promises you'll never be separated from Him, not even by death. Have you shared that gift with your friends? Eternal life with Jesus is a wonderful gift they can have too. Don't be afraid to share what Jesus has done for you.
Today's Key Verse:
When people sin, they earn what sin pays--death. But God gives his people a free gift--eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (ERV) (Romans 6:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Share the gift of Jesus
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 5:18-19; James 1:17
The music stopped, and Ellie frantically tried to sit down on the chair she had just passed. She was too late, and she laughed with the other kids when she saw she was out of the musical chairs game. Wearing brightly colored paper hats, the kids were having a great time at their Bible club party.
"Okay, kids. We have just one more game--a treasure hunt," announced Mrs. Weston. "There will be a prize for the first one to find a silver star."
The kids ran all around the yard, looking for the star. They scanned the trees, poked around the flowerbeds, hunted in bushes, and searched the lawn. There was no star anywhere. Suddenly, Anna squealed in delight. "Oh, I see it! I see the star!"
Ellie glanced at Anna, who seemed to be looking over her head. As she turned around to see what it might be, Paul ran up from behind her. "I see it too," he said.
One by one, the kids declared they saw the star…all except Ellie. "Why can't I see it?" she wondered out loud.
With a laugh, Anna reached up and took the paper hat that had been perched on Ellie's head. There on the bright blue hat was a small silver star.
Mrs. Weston came over with two wrapped packages. "Anna gets a prize for finding the star first," she said. "And to be fair, Ellie, this prize is for you since you couldn't see the star on your own head. And now, kids, it's time for a short devotional before you head home."
Mrs. Weston directed them to all sit down on the patio. "Ellie had the treasure and didn't even know it," she said, "and we're all like that sometimes. We fail to see the treasures Jesus gives us. Let's see how many we can name."
The kids took turns mentioning people or things they enjoyed, and Mrs. Weston nodded in agreement. "Those are all treasures from Jesus, and let's not forget the greatest treasure of all--the sacrifice He made so we could have eternal life with Him. Let's ask Him to open our eyes each day to see and appreciate the blessings He's given us."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you have treasures you have failed to see? Perhaps it's a family member, a friend, or a teacher God has placed in your life. Maybe it's your home, clothes, food, or the ability to do something well. What about God's greatest blessing of all--the gift of His Son, Jesus? Don't miss all the treasures He has given you. Ask Him to help you see them, then thank Him for them and enjoy them.
Today's Key Verse:
[God] richly provides us with all things to enjoy. (CSB)
(1 Timothy 6:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Enjoy God's blessings
Bible Reading: James 5:13-15
Gavin walked to the end of the dock and sat down. He let his bare feet touch the water and stared off into the distance.
"Whatcha doing?" Dad asked, sitting down next to Gavin.
"Just thinking about things." Gavin swirled his feet around in the water.
"Anything you want to talk about?" asked Dad.
Gavin was silent for a moment. "You know my friend Aiden who came over last week?"
Dad nodded. Gavin gently kicked at the water, causing it to splash slightly. "Aiden just found out he has cancer."
"I am so sorry to hear that," Dad said. "We will have to add Aiden to our prayer list."
Gavin pulled his feet out of the water and hugged his legs to his chest. "Dad, if God loves us, why does He allow bad things to happen? Why should we even pray for Aiden if God allowed him to be sick?"
Dad was silent for a moment before he spoke. "God loves each of us very much, but that doesn't mean we won't face problems. It just means we won't face them alone. Our world is broken by sin, but Jesus is with us."
Dad paused and looked out over the lake. "Do you see those two people fishing out there in that rowboat?" Gavin nodded. "That boat is like Jesus," Dad said. "Those two fishers are still going to experience things of nature--wind, rain, and everything else. But as long as their boat is intact, they won't sink, no matter what happens. It's the same with us. We all face problems in life, but because our faith is in Jesus, we are never alone, and we will always have hope because He has promised us eternal life with Him. Jesus's love is like an unsinkable boat. He holds us even in sickness and death."
Gavin sighed. "I just feel so bad for Aiden."
Dad nodded. "I know it's hard to see Aiden go through this, but you can help him by praying for him and reminding him that Jesus loves him and knows what he's going through. Talk with Jesus about it, and trust Him to help you be there for Aiden."
For a few moments, Gavin silently watched the rowboat. Then he asked, "Dad, can we pray for Aiden now?"
-Melissa Yeagle
How About You?
Do you pray for friends and loved ones who are sick? Are you going through a hard time yourself? As Christians, we can take our concerns to Jesus. His love for us is like a boat that can never sink. Though we live in a broken world, we have hope because Jesus has rescued us from sin and death and is working to make all things new. In the meantime, we can pray, knowing He is always by our side and comforts those who are hurting.
Today's Key Verse:
For I am persuaded that neither death nor life…shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NKJV) (Romans 8:38-39)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus's love will never fail
Bible Reading: Psalm 27:1-5; John 16:33; Hebrews 11:1
Editor's note: This story addresses war and may not be suitable for some children.
Alina held tightly to Pursia, her fluffy white cat. She could see her mom's creased forehead in the car's rearview mirror, and it reflected the fear Alina felt squeezing her own heart. On the distant horizon, black smoke billowed from the bombs that had been falling for days now. Whatever road they took, Alina didn't have to ask to know her mom couldn't verify their safety.
"There's about one hour left, Lina," Mom said softly as they passed by the wreckage of a bombed-out shell of a building.
"Are Titka and cousin Artem safe?" Alina whispered.
Mom smiled tightly. "Last time I talked to them, they were just fine. They are eagerly waiting for us to arrive."
"I'm glad they're safe, but I miss my room and our home.
Do you think we'll ever get to go back?"
"Only God knows, Lina. I know you're scared--I am too. We just have to remember right now that God is greater than our fear."
"How do we remember, Mom? How can we know that for sure? People are attacking our country, and we haven't done anything wrong! I don't understand how God could allow this to happen." Alina blinked back a mixture of sad and angry tears.
"I know, sweet girl. We have to have faith in Jesus even though we're afraid. Remember, we live in a broken world where there are wars, sickness, and suffering. God didn't intend the world He created to be this way, but when Adam and Eve sinned, everything changed. But thankfully, that wasn't the end of our story, because God sent His Son, Jesus, to save us from sin and be with us in our suffering. In this world we will have trouble, but Jesus has overcome the world, and He wins in the end."
Alina started singing softly in the backseat. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous--for the Lord your God is with you." Then her mom joined in. Their voices lifted louder until Pursia meowed in protest. Alina giggled. "I think Pursia is afraid we're going to keep singing, Mom."
"Well, I'm glad you started that song, even if she isn't! What a great reminder that God is with us wherever we go."
-Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Have you ever had to endure something terrible? Maybe you've experienced the horrors of war, injustice, or evacuation from your home. Even though we encounter troubles in this world, we can be strong and courageous because God is with us wherever we go. No matter what hardships we walk through, we don't have to fear because we belong to Jesus and He loves us completely.
Today's Key Verse:
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go. (NIV) (Joshua 1:9)
Today's Key Thought:
God is greater than fear
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:24-28
Ambrose's eyes widened as he glanced at the change the clerk had given him and then at the ten-dollar bill she was placing into the cash drawer. He quickly stuffed the money into his pocket, picked up the candy bar he had bought, and hurried out the door.
Wow! thought Ambrose. She must have been daydreaming or something. She gave me change for a twenty-dollar bill and didn't even notice it was a ten-dollar bill she was putting away. Now I have enough to buy that skateboard I want.
When Ambrose arrived home, he put the extra ten dollars in his desk drawer with the rest of his money. But he didn't feel comfortable all evening. He couldn't shut out the voice in his head. Over and over it said, That was stealing. Take it back!
When Ambrose entered his classroom the next day, he overheard a classmate talking to her friends. "I can't get a drama club T-shirt because my dad's out of work," Shelby said. "My sister planned to buy it for me. But at her job yesterday, her cash register was ten dollars short, so she had to pay it."
Ambrose felt like his heart almost stopped. It was Shelby's sister who had given him too much money. It's not my fault, he tried to tell himself. It's not like I took it. She gave it to me. But he knew that by keeping money that didn't belong to him, he was stealing just as if he'd gone into the store and taken it out of the register himself.
As he glanced at Shelby, Ambrose realized that any time something was stolen, someone had to pay. If I keep the money, Shelby and her sister are the ones who will pay for it, he thought. That's not how I'm supposed to treat others as a Christian. Jesus sacrificed His life to pay for my sins, and He says to love others the way He does. That means doing what's right.
Ambrose had planned to ask his mom to take him to the sporting goods store after school, but instead he went to the grocery store to return the ten dollars to Shelby's sister. Then he went home with a smile instead of a skateboard.
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Are you careful to do what's right? Even when it's not easy? It wasn't easy for Jesus to die on the cross for our sins, but He did it because He loves us. If you know Him as your Savior, He's given you the ability to obey Him and show His love to others. Trust Him to help you do the right thing and put others before yourself so they can see that you're honest and trustworthy like He is.
Today's Key Verse:
Indeed, we are giving careful thought to do what is right, not only before the Lord but also before people. (CSB) (2 Corinthians 8:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Do the right thing
Bible Reading: Genesis 11:1-9; Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 2:1-8; 17:26-27
The sun felt so hot Keisha thought she might melt like the chocolate she left in the jeep yesterday. "How much farther to the market?" she asked Fatmata.
"Not far!" answered her new friend.
Keisha had met Fatmata that morning, her first day at her new school. Keisha's father had taken a nursing position at the hospital in Mattru Jong, a town in Sierra Leone, West Africa. The family had moved to Mattru from New York the week before. Keisha hadn't had time to explore, so Fatmata offered to show her around.
When they reached the marketplace, Keisha was amazed. Women wearing colorful fabric around their heads and hips were selling peppers, cassava, balls of groundnut paste, rice, dried fish, mangoes, and papayas. The food sat in bowls on wooden tables or on fabric spread on the dirt. It didn't look or sound anything like grocery stores back home.
"What language are they speaking?" Keisha asked.
"Mostly Krio," said Fatmata. "It's our trading language. Some are speaking Mende, the tribal language of Mattru. School is taught in English, so most of us speak all three."
"I wish I knew three languages!" said Keisha.
When Keisha got home, her family sat down to a dinner of groundnut stew over rice. She was still getting used to the hot peppers, but it was delicious!
"Dad, why are there so many languages?" Keisha asked.
Dad put down his spoonful of stew. "The Bible tells us people used to speak one language. Sadly, they only cared about making themselves great instead of trusting and obeying God. They even thought they could build a tower to heaven on their own, so God caused them to speak different languages so they couldn't communicate and then scattered them over the earth."
"The Tower of Babel!" exclaimed Keisha.
Dad nodded. "But later in the Bible, Jesus tells His disciples to go and tell everyone that He died and rose again to save them from sin. When the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, the apostles preached the gospel to a crowd that spoke many different languages, and everyone understood. It was a miracle! And God continues to make a way for people everywhere to hear the good news of Jesus, no matter what language they speak."
"Wow," said Keisha. "I can't wait to tell Fatmata about this!"
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Did you know that God wants each of us to tell others about Jesus and how much He loves them? You don't have to travel to another country to do that. You can tell your friends, neighbors, and family members. You can invite them to church or youth group so they can learn about Jesus. Trust God to use you wherever you are to help spread the good news of salvation to people all over the world.
Today's Key Verse:
Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. (NIV) (Matthew 28:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Share the good news with everyone
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:23-29
"Mom, can you help me tie a string around my finger?" Abby held out string and a pair of scissors. "I never heard of it before, but Tina's grandma told us she used to tie a string around her finger to help her remember things. So this should help me remember to ask Tina to bring my sweatshirt to school tomorrow."
"All right." Mom smiled as she helped with the string. "Now, I hope you're ready for church. It's time to go."
"I'm ready," said Abby, and they were soon on their way.
When they arrived at church, Abby looked for Tina, but her friend wasn't there. I'll just leave the string on my finger until after church, Abby thought. It will remind me to call Tina when I get home.
That morning, Pastor Gates preached from the book of First Corinthians. "The Lord knows we are a forgetful people," Pastor Gates said. "So He gave us a special way to remind us of what He's done for us." Abby smiled and twisted the string on her finger. "Shortly before Jesus was betrayed, He and His disciples celebrated the Jewish Passover," Pastor Gates continued. "At that time, Jesus established a special meal that we will share together today as a reminder of His sacrifice. We call it the Lord's Supper or communion. The bread reminds us of Jesus's body and how He suffered for us on the cross, and the grape juice reminds us of His blood which was shed for our sins. It's also a reminder that Jesus will return one day to end suffering and death in this world forever."
I know all about needing reminders, Abby thought as she glanced at the string on her finger.
When Abby arrived home from church, she called Tina to tell her she missed her in Sunday school and to remind her to bring the sweatshirt to school with her. "I told her to tie a string around her finger so she wouldn't forget," Abby told her mom. "I'm glad I can take this one off now!" She removed the string from her finger. "I'm glad God gave us a special way to remember what Jesus did for us," she said. "It sure beats wearing a string around your finger!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you take part in the Lord's Supper--communion--at your church? What do you think about during that time? Are you reminded that Jesus died to take the punishment for your sin? Do you remember that He's coming again to resurrect all Christians so they can live with Him forever? Communion is a special time to remember what Jesus did for us and celebrate the promise of His return.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said,] "Do this in remembrance of Me." (NKJV)
(1 Corinthians 11:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Communion is a reminder of Jesus
Bible Reading: 1 John 3:16-18
When Max and his mom walked into their house, their dog, Harry, ran straight to Mom and started rubbing against her ankles. She pet him and Harry flipped onto his back for a tummy rub.
"Harry, come here," said Max. "Come to me!"
But Harry just looked up at Mom with his puppy dog eyes.
"Why does Harry always go to you? He never greets me first," Max complained.
"Max, when we decided to get a dog, you promised to take responsibility for him. But the reality is I do most of the work for Harry, and he knows it."
"He knows I care for him," said Max. "I cuddle him and tell him I love him every day."
"Let's take him on a walk," said Mom.
Max held the leash as Harry trotted down the sidewalk. Harry sniffed around, squatted, and did a doody. "Okay, Mom, it's right there," said Max, pointing.
Mom pulled out a dog doody bag and handed it to Max. "Here you go," she said.
"Me? I don't want to clean up after him! Can't you do it?"
"Max, this is why Harry always comes to me. He knows I'm the one who takes care of him, including doing the dog deeds that are difficult. Like picking up his doody," said Mom.
"You really think he realizes that?" asked Max.
"I think he does. Love isn't just words and cuddles, Max. It's actions. We talked about that at church last week, remember? The Bible tells us to love others through our actions because that's what Jesus did for us. He loved us by sacrificing His life for us, and He fulfills His promise to provide for our needs and take care of us." Mom nodded toward the bag in Max's hand. "You can love Harry by fulfilling your duty to him too."
"Harry, it is my dog duty to clean up your dog doody," said Max in a deep voice, saluting the dog before taking the bag and picking up the doody. "I'll do my dog duty from now on to show you I love you," Max said, patting Harry's head. He grinned at his mom. "And to show you I love you too!"
-Kelly Bakshi
How About You?
Do you show others you care about them? Have you ever volunteered to take on extra chores for your family? Have you offered to help a friend learn something they may be struggling with in school? It's important to tell people you love them, but love is more than just words. It also means doing the hard stuff. Jesus did that for us when He died for our sins. What can you do to show someone you care?
Today's Key Verse:
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. (NIV) (1 John 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Love others through actions
Bible Reading: John 1:1-14; 1 John 1:5-7
Macy and Noah finished their schoolwork at the table with Mom. Macy read a chapter book while her little brother Noah worked on his alphabet.
Noah pushed away his flashcards. "Are we almost done?" he asked Mom. "I want to go outside and play!"
Macy looked out the window. Clouds darkened the mid-afternoon sky. Leaves swirled off the trees in the gusts of wind. "I don't think we should play outside today."
"Yeah, it looks a little too windy," Mom agreed.
The lights flickered. Then they went out. Darkness surrounded Macy, Noah, and Mom. "Don't worry," Mom said. "It's just the wind. The power will be back on soon."
Macy took a deep breath. She wanted to be brave. She was the big sister. But she hated the way the darkness swallowed her up.
Mom grabbed a flashlight out of the cabinet, then sighed. "Battery's dead."
"Don't we have more?" Macy asked, voice trembling.
"I don't think so."
Noah must have heard the fear in Macy's voice. He took her hand. "It's okay. Jesus is the light."
Macy looked around. Other than the dim light from outside, there was no light to be found. "What do you mean?"
"It's what my Sunday school teacher said." Noah grinned. "Jesus is our light. We can trust Him."
Mom wrapped her arms around them. "Thanks for that reminder, Noah. We can't see God, but He's here. And we can trust Him to lead us, the way a flashlight--if it had batteries--would lead us through this dark house."
Macy closed her eyes. She thought about the dark things Jesus went through because he loved them. She thought about His promise to be with them. Then she said a prayer in her heart. Jesus, can you be my light, even in the darkness?
She opened her eyes. The power didn't come back on--not right away. No light pierced through the darkness.
But she felt Mom and Noah holding her close. And she felt like God was holding her too.
"You're right, Noah," Macy said. "Jesus is my light, and I trust Him."
-Becca Wierwille
How About You?
Do you ever feel like you're surrounded by darkness? Maybe you get nervous when the lights are off. Or maybe there are things going on in your life that feel dark and scary. No matter what, we can trust Jesus to be our light. We can trust Him to be with us, to comfort us, and to love us--even through moments of darkness.
Today's Key Verse:
This is the message which we have heard from Him and declare to you, that God is light and in Him is no darkness at all. (NKJV)
(1 John 1:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God to be your light
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:19-21; Luke 12:33-34
Kiana was sorting through her closet with her older sister Bethany. "I outgrew most of my clothes this year," said Kiana. "I'm glad we can give them to someone else who needs new clothes." She peered up at the top of the closet. "Can you see if there's anything up high? I can't reach it."
Bethany reached up and pulled a dusty and crumpled cardboard box off the top shelf. "Hey, what's this?" she asked.
Kiana's eyes lit up. "It's my treasure box."
Bethany inspected the dirty outside of the box and said, "It doesn't look very important. It's falling apart!"
"But it's what's inside that counts!" Kiana exclaimed. "I keep all my most special things in there, like the seashells we found at the beach last summer and the letters you wrote to me while you were away at university."
"Really? That's sweet of you," said Bethany, and she put the box aside on the floor. "I'll make sure we don't give that away."
"Yeah," said Kiana. "It's funny how all those little things are so important, even though they don't look important on the outside."
Bethany nodded. "You know, your box is a bit like one of my favorite Bible verses," she said. "Second Corinthians 4:7 says that knowing Jesus is like having treasure in jars of clay. Jesus died for our sins and then rose to life again, defeating sin and death. He's the greatest treasure of all, and He offers eternal life to anyone who trusts in Him! But we're like jars of clay, which don't look like much on the outside and don't last forever, like your cardboard box."
"But they hold treasure inside!" Kiana smiled.
Bethany snapped her fingers. "That's right! The bodies we have now don't last forever, and all our material things are temporary, but our treasure of life with Jesus is forever because He promises to raise us from the dead one day. It doesn't matter how big our house is or how expensive our clothes are or how much money we have because we hold God's treasure in our hearts. Knowing that, we can be generous with others and share what God's blessed us with. Most of all, that means sharing God's treasure of eternal life."
-Abby Ciona
How About You?
Where do you keep the things that are most important to you? Life isn't about possessions or money or what we have or don't have. What matters most is that we know Jesus and accept His gift of eternal life. Be generous and share the gifts God has given you with others, especially the greatest treasure of all--Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
We have this treasure from God, but we are only like clay jars that hold the treasure. (ERV) (2 Corinthians 4:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is the greatest treasure
Bible Reading: Psalm 56:3-4
Jonah was excited when he and his family arrived at their favorite state park in Florida. He loved camping and couldn't wait to hike the boardwalk trail through the slough. The wetlands were full of wildlife, and he knew they'd see lots of different kinds of birds and maybe even some alligators.
But before they went hiking, they had to have lunch. Jonah hopped around impatiently as Mom got out the food. "Can I go the playground?" he asked.
"Just be careful and watch for snakes," Mom said.
Jonah nodded and ran to the playground. From the top of the giant slide, he saw a kitten by the edge of the woods. What's that kitten doing over there? Jonah thought. An alligator might get him! Jonah quickly slid down the slide and darted after the kitten, but the kitten ran into the woods. Jonah ran in after him. When he finally caught the kitten, he looked around and didn't know where he was.
Jonah hugged the kitten close to him. " I think we're lost," he said.
As Jonah started walking in the direction he thought they'd come from, he remembered a Bible verse his mom had taught him. Psalm 56:3--When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you. "Jesus," Jonah prayed, "I'm afraid, but I know You're with me because you died for me and promised never to leave me. Please help me find my way back. Amen."
Soon Jonah heard a voice shouting his name. It was a park ranger. "I'm over here!" Jonah yelled.
When the ranger brought Jonah back to camp, his parents gave him a big hug. "We were so worried!" Mom said.
The park ranger patted the kitten's head. "This little guy's family will be glad to see him. He wandered away from their campsite a few hours ago. But don't go off into the woods again by yourself, Jonah, not even for a kitten. It's dangerous, and you could have been hurt."
Jonah nodded. "Don't worry, I won't do that again," he assured them all.
After the ranger left, Mom brought the food to the picnic table and they sat down to pray. Jonah thanked God for their food and then said an extra big thank-you for being with him and keeping him safe.
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you ever been lost and afraid? It can be very scary, but the Bible assures us God is always with us and that He will help us. When you feel afraid, turn to Jesus. Give your fears to Him, knowing that He died and rose again so you could be with Him forever. He promises to be with you and help you when you're lost and afraid. Let's thank God for that today!
Today's Key Verse:
For I hold you by your right hand--I, the Lord your God. And I say to you, "don't be afraid.
I am here to help you." (NLT) (Isaiah 41:13)
Today's Key Thought:
God is with us
Bible Reading: Romans 5:17-21; 8:16-17
"We won! We won!" shouted August as he dashed into the house. "Our team won the archery competition at school today, and look what I got!" He held out a blue first-prize ribbon.
"That's great!" said Mom. "And you're always saying you're no good at archery. How many points did you make?"
"Only two, but it didn't matter, because I was on the best team--Jonathan's team. He's the best archer in the whole school." August grinned. "I could never win an archery competition on my own--most of the others on my team couldn't either--but Jonathan won it for us. He made so many points we wouldn't have had to make any. But the whole team got first-prize ribbons."
Mom smiled. "Well, I'm glad you had a good time today."
A couple days later, August and his parents attended a service at their church. On the way home, Mom commented on the message. "August, I thought of your friend Jonathan when Pastor Curtis talked about Christians being righteous in God's sight."
"You did?" August asked curiously. "Why would that make you think of him?"
"You told me you'd never be able to win first place in archery on your own, but the points Jonathan made in the competition counted for everyone on his team, right?" Mom asked.
"That's right," said August.
"Well, no person can ever be good enough to win eternal life with God on their own either," Mom said. "We're all sinners who have done wrong and fallen short in God's eyes. But because of what Jesus did on the cross, everyone has the opportunity to go to heaven. Jesus won eternal life for us when He died on the cross for our sins and rose again, and all who trust in Him are on His team. Just like all the kids on your archery team shared in Jonathan's victory in the competition, all Christians share in Jesus's victory over sin and death."
"Wow! Then we're members of the very best team of all, aren't we?"
Dad nodded. "As Pastor Curtis pointed out, when we trust in Jesus, God sees His righteousness in us instead of our sin. Then we all share in His victory and receive the prize of eternal life with Him. We're members of his eternal team."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you on God's team? There's no way you can have victory over sin and death and win a place in heaven on your own. But Jesus has already won the victory, and He invites you to share in it. Will you trust Him as your Savior today? Then when God looks at you, He'll see Jesus's goodness--His righteousness--and you'll be on His team forever! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
By one Man's [Jesus's] obedience many will be made righteous. (NKJV) (Romans 5:19)
Today's Key Thought:
You can be on God's team
Bible Reading: Romans 5:17-21; 8:16-17
"We won! We won!" shouted August as he dashed into the house. "Our team won the archery competition at school today, and look what I got!" He held out a blue first-prize ribbon.
"That's great!" said Mom. "And you're always saying you're no good at archery. How many points did you make?"
"Only two, but it didn't matter, because I was on the best team--Jonathan's team. He's the best archer in the whole school." August grinned. "I could never win an archery competition on my own--most of the others on my team couldn't either--but Jonathan won it for us. He made so many points we wouldn't have had to make any. But the whole team got first-prize ribbons."
Mom smiled. "Well, I'm glad you had a good time today."
A couple days later, August and his parents attended a service at their church. On the way home, Mom commented on the message. "August, I thought of your friend Jonathan when Pastor Curtis talked about Christians being righteous in God's sight."
"You did?" August asked curiously. "Why would that make you think of him?"
"You told me you'd never be able to win first place in archery on your own, but the points Jonathan made in the competition counted for everyone on his team, right?" Mom asked.
"That's right," said August.
"Well, no person can ever be good enough to win eternal life with God on their own either," Mom said. "We're all sinners who have done wrong and fallen short in God's eyes. But because of what Jesus did on the cross, everyone has the opportunity to go to heaven. Jesus won eternal life for us when He died on the cross for our sins and rose again, and all who trust in Him are on His team. Just like all the kids on your archery team shared in Jonathan's victory in the competition, all Christians share in Jesus's victory over sin and death."
"Wow! Then we're members of the very best team of all, aren't we?"
Dad nodded. "As Pastor Curtis pointed out, when we trust in Jesus, God sees His righteousness in us instead of our sin. Then we all share in His victory and receive the prize of eternal life with Him. We're members of his eternal team."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you on God's team? There's no way you can have victory over sin and death and win a place in heaven on your own. But Jesus has already won the victory, and He invites you to share in it. Will you trust Him as your Savior today? Then when God looks at you, He'll see Jesus's goodness--His righteousness--and you'll be on His team forever! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
By one Man's [Jesus's] obedience many will be made righteous. (NKJV) (Romans 5:19)
Today's Key Thought:
You can be on God's team
Bible Reading: John 15:5-6
"Look at all the pumpkins!" Tanner exclaimed, excited to help Aunt Carolyn harvest her pumpkin patch. Orange pumpkins dotted the ground of the huge field.
Aunt Carolyn smiled. "Do you know each pumpkin has five hundred seeds inside?"
"No, but I know pumpkin pie tastes good," Tanner said.
Aunt Carolyn tousled his hair then carefully stepped into the field, making sure she placed her feet in powdery dirt and not on the plants.
Tanner lifted his leg high to avoid stepping on the vine. He stopped by a raised mound of dirt. "What's this?"
"This is where I planted the seed that grew into the pumpkin plant."
"One seed?" Tanner scrunched his face. "One seed made all these vines?" Several vines with large, dark green leaves shot out from the main plant like octopus tentacles stretching and curling across the field. "But there are several pumpkins on each vine!"
"One seed can produce a lot of fruit." Aunt Carolyn patted his shoulder. "After you pick the pumpkins, carry them over to the fence."
"Okay." Tanner plucked a small pumpkin from the plant, then a larger one. As he carried them to the fence, his foot tangled in a vine. He placed the pumpkins on the ground and carefully unwound the plant from his ankle. Once he was free, he gently worked the twisted vine into a straight line, plucking the ripe fruit from it as he went. When he finished, the vine stretched to the fence where Aunt Carolyn stood watching him. "I harvested eight pumpkins from this one runner!" Tanner exclaimed.
"It was a good vine." Aunt Carolyn set down a pumpkin. "It reminds me of Jesus. He provides us with spiritual nourishment, just like a healthy vine helps a pumpkin grow."
Tanner smiled and wiped his brow. "We learned in Sunday school that if we trust in Jesus, we can show His love to others and tell them about Him. Then they may decide to trust in Him too!"
"Right!" said Aunt Carolyn. "By sharing the good news of Jesus, we can bear good fruit just like these pumpkin vines. Planting the seeds of God's love helps others know and follow Him!"
-Rose Ross Zediker
How About You?
Are you bearing good fruit for Jesus? If you know Him as your Savior, He nourishes you spiritually and helps you grow so you can share His love with others. Let Him nourish you as you study the Bible, go to church, and pray. Trust Him to help you love others through your daily thoughts and actions. As you bear His good fruit in your life, you'll be helping God's kingdom grow!
Today's Key Verse:
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (NIV) (Galatians 6:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Help grow God's kingdom
Bible Reading: John 15:5-6
"Look at all the pumpkins!" Tanner exclaimed, excited to help Aunt Carolyn harvest her pumpkin patch. Orange pumpkins dotted the ground of the huge field.
Aunt Carolyn smiled. "Do you know each pumpkin has five hundred seeds inside?"
"No, but I know pumpkin pie tastes good," Tanner said.
Aunt Carolyn tousled his hair then carefully stepped into the field, making sure she placed her feet in powdery dirt and not on the plants.
Tanner lifted his leg high to avoid stepping on the vine. He stopped by a raised mound of dirt. "What's this?"
"This is where I planted the seed that grew into the pumpkin plant."
"One seed?" Tanner scrunched his face. "One seed made all these vines?" Several vines with large, dark green leaves shot out from the main plant like octopus tentacles stretching and curling across the field. "But there are several pumpkins on each vine!"
"One seed can produce a lot of fruit." Aunt Carolyn patted his shoulder. "After you pick the pumpkins, carry them over to the fence."
"Okay." Tanner plucked a small pumpkin from the plant, then a larger one. As he carried them to the fence, his foot tangled in a vine. He placed the pumpkins on the ground and carefully unwound the plant from his ankle. Once he was free, he gently worked the twisted vine into a straight line, plucking the ripe fruit from it as he went. When he finished, the vine stretched to the fence where Aunt Carolyn stood watching him. "I harvested eight pumpkins from this one runner!" Tanner exclaimed.
"It was a good vine." Aunt Carolyn set down a pumpkin. "It reminds me of Jesus. He provides us with spiritual nourishment, just like a healthy vine helps a pumpkin grow."
Tanner smiled and wiped his brow. "We learned in Sunday school that if we trust in Jesus, we can show His love to others and tell them about Him. Then they may decide to trust in Him too!"
"Right!" said Aunt Carolyn. "By sharing the good news of Jesus, we can bear good fruit just like these pumpkin vines. Planting the seeds of God's love helps others know and follow Him!"
-Rose Ross Zediker
How About You?
Are you bearing good fruit for Jesus? If you know Him as your Savior, He nourishes you spiritually and helps you grow so you can share His love with others. Let Him nourish you as you study the Bible, go to church, and pray. Trust Him to help you love others through your daily thoughts and actions. As you bear His good fruit in your life, you'll be helping God's kingdom grow!
Today's Key Verse:
Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (NIV) (Galatians 6:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Help grow God's kingdom
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:4-14; Revelation 7:9-10
"Mom, there's so many beautiful things here!" Eliana exclaimed. She and her mom were visiting an art museum, and Eliana stood in awe of the different shapes, sizes, colors, and materials that made up the art displayed around every corner. But one particular piece stood out. "Is that painting sparkly?" asked Eliana.
Mom smiled. "Kind of," she said. "It's actually not a painting. It's a mosaic. It sparkles because it's made of tiny pieces of colorful glass arranged together to make a picture."
"Wow!" said Eliana. "I think we need a mosaic at home."
"You know," said Mom. "You can make mosaics out of anything. You just need a canvas and lots of tiny items in the colors you want. We should make one together."
And so they did. Once they got home, Eliana gathered small items from the craft bin in the colors she wanted, while Mom found a canvas from their supply cabinet. Soon, they were arranging the pieces on the canvas, making a picture of a tree.
As they worked, Mom spoke. "This reminds me of church," she said as she dabbed some glue on a green button and pressed it to the canvas.
"Huh?" asked Eliana.
"I guess that was a little confusing," said Mom with a laugh. "Let me explain. You know how at church everyone has different talents and backgrounds and many people at our church come from cultures different from our own? That's how God designed His church--His family--to be. He wants His people to have all kinds of beautiful differences--just like all the random pieces that make up our mosaic. Together they make up a beautiful church that glorifies Him."
Eliana nodded. "Mosaics are amazing because they are made up of lots of different pieces that create one big picture."
"Exactly!" said Mom. "The canvas holds all the random pieces together. In the same way, as Christians, we gather together in all the amazing ways Jesus made us to worship Him and remember that He saved us through His death and resurrection. That's what unites us and makes us into God's beautiful mosaic."
-Kandi Zeller
How About You?
What are some of the different talents, backgrounds, and cultures in your church? God created us all so differently, and when we become Christians, each of us is also given different spiritual gifts to use in serving the church. God uses the differences He created in us to help us grow in Christ and glorify Him together--just like a beautiful mosaic. As Christians, we are united by Jesus, and through the amazing diversity of His family, He creates a picture of His love and goodness.
Today's Key Verse:
God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 12:6)
Today's Key Thought:
The church is united around Jesus
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:4-14; Revelation 7:9-10
"Mom, there's so many beautiful things here!" Eliana exclaimed. She and her mom were visiting an art museum, and Eliana stood in awe of the different shapes, sizes, colors, and materials that made up the art displayed around every corner. But one particular piece stood out. "Is that painting sparkly?" asked Eliana.
Mom smiled. "Kind of," she said. "It's actually not a painting. It's a mosaic. It sparkles because it's made of tiny pieces of colorful glass arranged together to make a picture."
"Wow!" said Eliana. "I think we need a mosaic at home."
"You know," said Mom. "You can make mosaics out of anything. You just need a canvas and lots of tiny items in the colors you want. We should make one together."
And so they did. Once they got home, Eliana gathered small items from the craft bin in the colors she wanted, while Mom found a canvas from their supply cabinet. Soon, they were arranging the pieces on the canvas, making a picture of a tree.
As they worked, Mom spoke. "This reminds me of church," she said as she dabbed some glue on a green button and pressed it to the canvas.
"Huh?" asked Eliana.
"I guess that was a little confusing," said Mom with a laugh. "Let me explain. You know how at church everyone has different talents and backgrounds and many people at our church come from cultures different from our own? That's how God designed His church--His family--to be. He wants His people to have all kinds of beautiful differences--just like all the random pieces that make up our mosaic. Together they make up a beautiful church that glorifies Him."
Eliana nodded. "Mosaics are amazing because they are made up of lots of different pieces that create one big picture."
"Exactly!" said Mom. "The canvas holds all the random pieces together. In the same way, as Christians, we gather together in all the amazing ways Jesus made us to worship Him and remember that He saved us through His death and resurrection. That's what unites us and makes us into God's beautiful mosaic."
-Kandi Zeller
How About You?
What are some of the different talents, backgrounds, and cultures in your church? God created us all so differently, and when we become Christians, each of us is also given different spiritual gifts to use in serving the church. God uses the differences He created in us to help us grow in Christ and glorify Him together--just like a beautiful mosaic. As Christians, we are united by Jesus, and through the amazing diversity of His family, He creates a picture of His love and goodness.
Today's Key Verse:
God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 12:6)
Today's Key Thought:
The church is united around Jesus
Bible Reading: Proverbs 11:13; James 3:7-10
Isabella sat on the grass and watched her grandmother get ready for a family picnic in her backyard. "Grandma, what should I do when I hear something about someone else and then my friends ask me about that person?" Isabella asked as she picked a dandelion. "Should I tell them what I heard?"
Grandma spread a red-and-white checked tablecloth on the picnic table. "That depends," she replied. "Was what you were told true? Could it hurt the person it was about? Is it something that person would want others to know?"
Isabella carefully picked a dandelion that had gone to seed. She blew hard on the fluffy, white globe, and the seeds drifted in all directions. They landed on the grass like tiny parachutes.
"Repeating bad things about others is called gossip," Grandma continued. She looked at the dandelion stem Isabella was holding. "Why don't you gather up all the seeds you just scattered?"
Isabella looked surprised. "Grandma, that's impossible! The wind blew them all over the place. I could never get them all back."
Grandma nodded. "That's what happens with gossip too. Someone tells you something. You tell somebody who repeats it to someone else, who repeats it to someone else, who repeats it…and on it goes. It's as if the wind carries it in all directions. Gossip can spread quickly, and it's impossible to take it all back."
Isabella twirled the dandelion stem in her fingers. "So I guess I shouldn't tell anyone what I heard."
"Unless it's something an adult needs to know about, I'd say you're right," Grandma said as she set forks and napkins out on the table. "Gossip is hurtful and can even break up friendships. So instead of repeating unkind things we hear about others, we need to trust Jesus to help us be the kind of friend He is. Instead of rumors, we can spread His love and kindness in the way we talk about others."
With a smile, Isabella nodded. "Okay, I'll do that. I'll stop those rumors in their tracks!" Then she got up to help Grandma finish setting the table.
-Jacqueline J. Leaycraft
How About You?
Do you repeat unkind things you hear about others? It may seem harmless, but gossip is hurtful, and the words you say can't be taken back. If it's something an adult should know about, talk to a parent or teacher. But don't gossip about people. Jesus loves them, just like He loves you. Trust Him to help you say only good and helpful things about others so they can hear His love in your words.
Today's Key Verse:
Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement
to those who hear them. (NLT) (Ephesians 4:29)
Today's Key Thought:
Gossip hurts others
Bible Reading: Proverbs 11:13; James 3:7-10
Isabella sat on the grass and watched her grandmother get ready for a family picnic in her backyard. "Grandma, what should I do when I hear something about someone else and then my friends ask me about that person?" Isabella asked as she picked a dandelion. "Should I tell them what I heard?"
Grandma spread a red-and-white checked tablecloth on the picnic table. "That depends," she replied. "Was what you were told true? Could it hurt the person it was about? Is it something that person would want others to know?"
Isabella carefully picked a dandelion that had gone to seed. She blew hard on the fluffy, white globe, and the seeds drifted in all directions. They landed on the grass like tiny parachutes.
"Repeating bad things about others is called gossip," Grandma continued. She looked at the dandelion stem Isabella was holding. "Why don't you gather up all the seeds you just scattered?"
Isabella looked surprised. "Grandma, that's impossible! The wind blew them all over the place. I could never get them all back."
Grandma nodded. "That's what happens with gossip too. Someone tells you something. You tell somebody who repeats it to someone else, who repeats it to someone else, who repeats it…and on it goes. It's as if the wind carries it in all directions. Gossip can spread quickly, and it's impossible to take it all back."
Isabella twirled the dandelion stem in her fingers. "So I guess I shouldn't tell anyone what I heard."
"Unless it's something an adult needs to know about, I'd say you're right," Grandma said as she set forks and napkins out on the table. "Gossip is hurtful and can even break up friendships. So instead of repeating unkind things we hear about others, we need to trust Jesus to help us be the kind of friend He is. Instead of rumors, we can spread His love and kindness in the way we talk about others."
With a smile, Isabella nodded. "Okay, I'll do that. I'll stop those rumors in their tracks!" Then she got up to help Grandma finish setting the table.
-Jacqueline J. Leaycraft
How About You?
Do you repeat unkind things you hear about others? It may seem harmless, but gossip is hurtful, and the words you say can't be taken back. If it's something an adult should know about, talk to a parent or teacher. But don't gossip about people. Jesus loves them, just like He loves you. Trust Him to help you say only good and helpful things about others so they can hear His love in your words.
Today's Key Verse:
Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement
to those who hear them. (NLT) (Ephesians 4:29)
Today's Key Thought:
Gossip hurts others
Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:3-6
Damian walked over to the window of the pet store, his heart beating excitedly in his chest. He had waited a long time for this moment.
"Are you ready to go inside?" Aunt Rita asked.
A wide smile lit up Damian's face as he nodded. He followed his aunt inside the store and stopped in front of a large wooden hutch. Two plush calico-colored rabbits hopped over one another, eagerly making their way to the food bowl. Damian's eyes drifted to a light-gray rabbit nestled in the corner, its furry chin resting on an extended paw.
Aunt Rita followed Damian's gaze and chuckled. "Something tells me you already picked which rabbit you would like to adopt."
Damian lowered his hand into the uncovered hutch and rubbed the sleeping rabbit's soft, silky fur. "Can we really adopt it, Aunt Rita?" he asked, finding it hard to believe. The past year had been difficult for him with his parents fighting a lot and his father still unable to find a job.
"We sure can," Aunt Rita replied, hugging Damian to her side. "Did you know that God adopts us to be part of His family?"
"What do you mean?" Damian asked.
"Well," said Aunt Rita, "God loves us so much that when we trust Jesus as our Savior, He adopts us as His sons and daughters."
Damian's eyes widened. "So, God is our Father and we become members of His family forever?"
Aunt Rita nodded. "That's right. Think of how much you already care for this rabbit and the happiness you feel knowing it will be part of our family. God feels the same way about us. He takes great delight in adopting us as His children." She squeezed Damian's shoulder. "I know things haven't been easy lately, but remember you're not alone. Because you know Jesus, you're part of God's family, and He promises to be with you and take care of you." Aunt Rita pointed to the rabbit. "Just like I know you'll take care of him."
Damian felt the warmth of Aunt Rita's words wrap around him. Joy filled his heart as he realized how special it made him feel to be included in God's family.
-Ann Garde
How About You?
Do you ever feel like God is far away? Or that you have to face difficult situations alone? Everyone feels like that at times, but God promises us that when we trust Jesus as our Savior, we become His children. He is a kind and loving Father who will always take care of us and be there when we need Him. Are you part of His family? If not, trust Jesus today, and God will make you His child. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. (NLT) (Ephesians 1:5)
Today's Key Thought:
God adopts us into His family
Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:3-6
Damian walked over to the window of the pet store, his heart beating excitedly in his chest. He had waited a long time for this moment.
"Are you ready to go inside?" Aunt Rita asked.
A wide smile lit up Damian's face as he nodded. He followed his aunt inside the store and stopped in front of a large wooden hutch. Two plush calico-colored rabbits hopped over one another, eagerly making their way to the food bowl. Damian's eyes drifted to a light-gray rabbit nestled in the corner, its furry chin resting on an extended paw.
Aunt Rita followed Damian's gaze and chuckled. "Something tells me you already picked which rabbit you would like to adopt."
Damian lowered his hand into the uncovered hutch and rubbed the sleeping rabbit's soft, silky fur. "Can we really adopt it, Aunt Rita?" he asked, finding it hard to believe. The past year had been difficult for him with his parents fighting a lot and his father still unable to find a job.
"We sure can," Aunt Rita replied, hugging Damian to her side. "Did you know that God adopts us to be part of His family?"
"What do you mean?" Damian asked.
"Well," said Aunt Rita, "God loves us so much that when we trust Jesus as our Savior, He adopts us as His sons and daughters."
Damian's eyes widened. "So, God is our Father and we become members of His family forever?"
Aunt Rita nodded. "That's right. Think of how much you already care for this rabbit and the happiness you feel knowing it will be part of our family. God feels the same way about us. He takes great delight in adopting us as His children." She squeezed Damian's shoulder. "I know things haven't been easy lately, but remember you're not alone. Because you know Jesus, you're part of God's family, and He promises to be with you and take care of you." Aunt Rita pointed to the rabbit. "Just like I know you'll take care of him."
Damian felt the warmth of Aunt Rita's words wrap around him. Joy filled his heart as he realized how special it made him feel to be included in God's family.
-Ann Garde
How About You?
Do you ever feel like God is far away? Or that you have to face difficult situations alone? Everyone feels like that at times, but God promises us that when we trust Jesus as our Savior, we become His children. He is a kind and loving Father who will always take care of us and be there when we need Him. Are you part of His family? If not, trust Jesus today, and God will make you His child. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. (NLT) (Ephesians 1:5)
Today's Key Thought:
God adopts us into His family
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:21-22; 1 John 2:3-6
"Mom, why do we do devotions every day?" asked Bo as she picked up a book with colorful illustrations of birds and flowers. "It seems like we get enough Bible teaching by going to church every week." As she spoke, she thumbed through the book she was holding. She studied a picture of a beautiful red cardinal. "I'd sure like this picture for my bird project," Bo said. "Can I cut it out?"
"That would ruin the book. Why don't you trace it?" suggested Mom.
"Good idea." Bo jumped up and found some tracing paper.
Mom watched as Bo worked. "Why do you put the paper right on top of the picture?" Mom asked.
"It's tracing paper," replied Bo, surprised at her mother's question. "I put it on top of the picture so I can see the lines through the paper and trace them."
"But you just saw the picture a minute ago," said Mom. "Why not put the paper to the side and look back at the picture every now and then?"
"Mom! I'm tracing it, not copying it," said Bo. "When you trace, the paper has to touch the picture." She looked at her mother suspiciously.
Mom nodded. "You're right. I'm thinking of your question about having devotions every day. The Bible says our lives should look like that of Jesus--we should follow in His steps and love others the way He does."
"And you're comparing that to tracing a picture?" asked Bo.
"Yes, because in order for you to trace that bird, your tracing paper needs to be right there on the picture, and in order for us to be like Jesus, we need to know what He's like. The Bible is His story--it shows us who He is. As we read and study the Bible--at church and on our own--we learn more about Jesus, and the Holy Spirit helps us apply what we learn to our lives. It's one of the ways He shapes us to be more like Jesus."
"You mean, it's like He's tracing us over Jesus?" Bo lifted the tracing paper and looked at it, then put it back on the picture. "Okay," she said as she traced more lines. "As soon as I'm done with this, let's do our family devotions!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you live the way Jesus lived? He lived a perfect life that none of us ever could, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can follow in His steps. One way to do that is to spend time reading the Bible so you can learn more about Jesus. It's important to read and study God's Word with other people at church, but it's also good to do it on your own. Learn what Jesus did and said, and then follow in His steps.
Today's Key Verse:
The one who says he belongs to Christ should live the same kind of life Christ lived. (NLV) (1 John 2:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Follow in Jesus's steps
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:21-22; 1 John 2:3-6
"Mom, why do we do devotions every day?" asked Bo as she picked up a book with colorful illustrations of birds and flowers. "It seems like we get enough Bible teaching by going to church every week." As she spoke, she thumbed through the book she was holding. She studied a picture of a beautiful red cardinal. "I'd sure like this picture for my bird project," Bo said. "Can I cut it out?"
"That would ruin the book. Why don't you trace it?" suggested Mom.
"Good idea." Bo jumped up and found some tracing paper.
Mom watched as Bo worked. "Why do you put the paper right on top of the picture?" Mom asked.
"It's tracing paper," replied Bo, surprised at her mother's question. "I put it on top of the picture so I can see the lines through the paper and trace them."
"But you just saw the picture a minute ago," said Mom. "Why not put the paper to the side and look back at the picture every now and then?"
"Mom! I'm tracing it, not copying it," said Bo. "When you trace, the paper has to touch the picture." She looked at her mother suspiciously.
Mom nodded. "You're right. I'm thinking of your question about having devotions every day. The Bible says our lives should look like that of Jesus--we should follow in His steps and love others the way He does."
"And you're comparing that to tracing a picture?" asked Bo.
"Yes, because in order for you to trace that bird, your tracing paper needs to be right there on the picture, and in order for us to be like Jesus, we need to know what He's like. The Bible is His story--it shows us who He is. As we read and study the Bible--at church and on our own--we learn more about Jesus, and the Holy Spirit helps us apply what we learn to our lives. It's one of the ways He shapes us to be more like Jesus."
"You mean, it's like He's tracing us over Jesus?" Bo lifted the tracing paper and looked at it, then put it back on the picture. "Okay," she said as she traced more lines. "As soon as I'm done with this, let's do our family devotions!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you live the way Jesus lived? He lived a perfect life that none of us ever could, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can follow in His steps. One way to do that is to spend time reading the Bible so you can learn more about Jesus. It's important to read and study God's Word with other people at church, but it's also good to do it on your own. Learn what Jesus did and said, and then follow in His steps.
Today's Key Verse:
The one who says he belongs to Christ should live the same kind of life Christ lived. (NLV) (1 John 2:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Follow in Jesus's steps
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:21-22; 1 John 2:3-6
"Mom, why do we do devotions every day?" asked Bo as she picked up a book with colorful illustrations of birds and flowers. "It seems like we get enough Bible teaching by going to church every week." As she spoke, she thumbed through the book she was holding. She studied a picture of a beautiful red cardinal. "I'd sure like this picture for my bird project," Bo said. "Can I cut it out?"
"That would ruin the book. Why don't you trace it?" suggested Mom.
"Good idea." Bo jumped up and found some tracing paper.
Mom watched as Bo worked. "Why do you put the paper right on top of the picture?" Mom asked.
"It's tracing paper," replied Bo, surprised at her mother's question. "I put it on top of the picture so I can see the lines through the paper and trace them."
"But you just saw the picture a minute ago," said Mom. "Why not put the paper to the side and look back at the picture every now and then?"
"Mom! I'm tracing it, not copying it," said Bo. "When you trace, the paper has to touch the picture." She looked at her mother suspiciously.
Mom nodded. "You're right. I'm thinking of your question about having devotions every day. The Bible says our lives should look like that of Jesus--we should follow in His steps and love others the way He does."
"And you're comparing that to tracing a picture?" asked Bo.
"Yes, because in order for you to trace that bird, your tracing paper needs to be right there on the picture, and in order for us to be like Jesus, we need to know what He's like. The Bible is His story--it shows us who He is. As we read and study the Bible--at church and on our own--we learn more about Jesus, and the Holy Spirit helps us apply what we learn to our lives. It's one of the ways He shapes us to be more like Jesus."
"You mean, it's like He's tracing us over Jesus?" Bo lifted the tracing paper and looked at it, then put it back on the picture. "Okay," she said as she traced more lines. "As soon as I'm done with this, let's do our family devotions!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you live the way Jesus lived? He lived a perfect life that none of us ever could, but with the help of the Holy Spirit, we can follow in His steps. One way to do that is to spend time reading the Bible so you can learn more about Jesus. It's important to read and study God's Word with other people at church, but it's also good to do it on your own. Learn what Jesus did and said, and then follow in His steps.
Today's Key Verse:
The one who says he belongs to Christ should live the same kind of life Christ lived. (NLV) (1 John 2:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Follow in Jesus's steps
Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 4:11-16
"Mom, look at Tommy!" Avery laughed as her little brother waved his spoon and smeared mashed potatoes over his face. He dipped the spoon back into his bowl and then put it to his mouth. "Big boy!"
Avery cheered. "You got it all in this time."
"Pretty soon he'll be eating everything by himself," said Mom. She patted Tommy's curly head as she reached for a spoon to feed him the last bit of food from his bowl. Then she handed him his cup of milk. "There you go. You can finish that while Mommy clears the table."
"Can I be excused?" asked Avery. "I need to finish my history project for school."
Mom nodded. "And if you haven't had your devotions yet, do that too before you watch TV."
Avery sighed. "Sometimes I think I might as well skip having devotions by myself. I don't understand the Bible very well. I get a lot more out of our family devotions because you and Dad explain things I don't get. Why can't I just wait until I'm older to read the Bible on my own?"
Mom looked at her thoughtfully. "What if Tommy wouldn't try to feed himself until he was…oh, maybe ten years old? Would that be a good thing?"
"No," said Avery. "That wouldn't be good at all!"
"Right," said Mom. "We're happy to help him when he needs it, but we're also glad to see him try to feed himself--even when he misses his mouth and makes a mess. As he practices, he'll become better at it."
Avery smiled at Tommy. "He's getting better already."
"Well, the Bible is like spiritual food," Mom said. "As we learn the truth of God's Word, the Holy Spirit uses it to strengthen our faith and nourish our souls. You take in spiritual food by learning about the Bible at church and during devotions with the rest of us, which is very important, but it's good for you to learn to feed yourself spiritually too."
Avery glanced at Tommy's messy face. "When I don't understand what I read, I guess it's kinda like I missed my mouth," she said with a grin.
Mom laughed. "Then you can ask for help. But don't stop trying. Learn to get some spiritual food all by yourself."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you learning to feed yourself spiritually? As you learn to read the Bible for yourself, you may not understand every word, but as you keep at it, you'll understand more and more. The Holy Spirit will teach you. He will also use people--like parents, pastors, or teachers--to answer your questions when you need help. Take time to read God's Word, and ask for help when you need it.
Today's Key Verse:
Like newborn infants, desire the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow up into your salvation. (CSB) (1 Peter 2:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Read the Bible for yourself
Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 4:11-16
"Mom, look at Tommy!" Avery laughed as her little brother waved his spoon and smeared mashed potatoes over his face. He dipped the spoon back into his bowl and then put it to his mouth. "Big boy!"
Avery cheered. "You got it all in this time."
"Pretty soon he'll be eating everything by himself," said Mom. She patted Tommy's curly head as she reached for a spoon to feed him the last bit of food from his bowl. Then she handed him his cup of milk. "There you go. You can finish that while Mommy clears the table."
"Can I be excused?" asked Avery. "I need to finish my history project for school."
Mom nodded. "And if you haven't had your devotions yet, do that too before you watch TV."
Avery sighed. "Sometimes I think I might as well skip having devotions by myself. I don't understand the Bible very well. I get a lot more out of our family devotions because you and Dad explain things I don't get. Why can't I just wait until I'm older to read the Bible on my own?"
Mom looked at her thoughtfully. "What if Tommy wouldn't try to feed himself until he was…oh, maybe ten years old? Would that be a good thing?"
"No," said Avery. "That wouldn't be good at all!"
"Right," said Mom. "We're happy to help him when he needs it, but we're also glad to see him try to feed himself--even when he misses his mouth and makes a mess. As he practices, he'll become better at it."
Avery smiled at Tommy. "He's getting better already."
"Well, the Bible is like spiritual food," Mom said. "As we learn the truth of God's Word, the Holy Spirit uses it to strengthen our faith and nourish our souls. You take in spiritual food by learning about the Bible at church and during devotions with the rest of us, which is very important, but it's good for you to learn to feed yourself spiritually too."
Avery glanced at Tommy's messy face. "When I don't understand what I read, I guess it's kinda like I missed my mouth," she said with a grin.
Mom laughed. "Then you can ask for help. But don't stop trying. Learn to get some spiritual food all by yourself."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you learning to feed yourself spiritually? As you learn to read the Bible for yourself, you may not understand every word, but as you keep at it, you'll understand more and more. The Holy Spirit will teach you. He will also use people--like parents, pastors, or teachers--to answer your questions when you need help. Take time to read God's Word, and ask for help when you need it.
Today's Key Verse:
Like newborn infants, desire the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow up into your salvation. (CSB) (1 Peter 2:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Read the Bible for yourself
Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 4:11-16
"Mom, look at Tommy!" Avery laughed as her little brother waved his spoon and smeared mashed potatoes over his face. He dipped the spoon back into his bowl and then put it to his mouth. "Big boy!"
Avery cheered. "You got it all in this time."
"Pretty soon he'll be eating everything by himself," said Mom. She patted Tommy's curly head as she reached for a spoon to feed him the last bit of food from his bowl. Then she handed him his cup of milk. "There you go. You can finish that while Mommy clears the table."
"Can I be excused?" asked Avery. "I need to finish my history project for school."
Mom nodded. "And if you haven't had your devotions yet, do that too before you watch TV."
Avery sighed. "Sometimes I think I might as well skip having devotions by myself. I don't understand the Bible very well. I get a lot more out of our family devotions because you and Dad explain things I don't get. Why can't I just wait until I'm older to read the Bible on my own?"
Mom looked at her thoughtfully. "What if Tommy wouldn't try to feed himself until he was…oh, maybe ten years old? Would that be a good thing?"
"No," said Avery. "That wouldn't be good at all!"
"Right," said Mom. "We're happy to help him when he needs it, but we're also glad to see him try to feed himself--even when he misses his mouth and makes a mess. As he practices, he'll become better at it."
Avery smiled at Tommy. "He's getting better already."
"Well, the Bible is like spiritual food," Mom said. "As we learn the truth of God's Word, the Holy Spirit uses it to strengthen our faith and nourish our souls. You take in spiritual food by learning about the Bible at church and during devotions with the rest of us, which is very important, but it's good for you to learn to feed yourself spiritually too."
Avery glanced at Tommy's messy face. "When I don't understand what I read, I guess it's kinda like I missed my mouth," she said with a grin.
Mom laughed. "Then you can ask for help. But don't stop trying. Learn to get some spiritual food all by yourself."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you learning to feed yourself spiritually? As you learn to read the Bible for yourself, you may not understand every word, but as you keep at it, you'll understand more and more. The Holy Spirit will teach you. He will also use people--like parents, pastors, or teachers--to answer your questions when you need help. Take time to read God's Word, and ask for help when you need it.
Today's Key Verse:
Like newborn infants, desire the pure milk of the word, so that by it you may grow up into your salvation. (CSB) (1 Peter 2:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Read the Bible for yourself
Bible Reading: Luke 17:11-19
"Did you enjoy working in the nursery this morning, Kylee?" Mom asked as they headed home after church.
"I did--except for one little kid named Jalen," Kylee replied. "The only thing he said all morning was gimme! 'Gimme that toy. Gimme a juice box. Gimme, gimme, gimme!'"
Kylee's brother Micah grinned. "Sounds like you," he teased.
Kylee rolled her eyes. "Jalen doesn't appreciate anything you do for him or give him," she said. "Somebody should teach that kid to say thank you. Instead, the minute he gets what he wanted, he wants something else!"
"That's what two-year-olds are often like," Mom told her.
"In fact, it's what all of us are like sometimes," said Dad. "What Micah suggested isn't so far from the truth."
Kylee's mouth dropped open. "Dad!" She didn't like being compared to a two-year-old.
Dad laughed. "Relax, Kylee, I'm not just talking about you. I'm talking about all of us. We can all have a 'gimme' attitude at times--adults included."
"Adults?" Micah laughed. "They ask for juice boxes?"
"Well, maybe not that," said Mom. "But does this sound familiar? 'Dear God, please help me find a new job…and help the kids study hard and get good grades in school.'"
"And help me get a hit in our next ball game!" Micah chimed in.
"And help me eat healthier and exercise," added Dad with a grin.
Kylee laughed. "We all ask for a lot, don't we? I guess the world must seem like a great big nursery to God."
"You may be right," said Dad. "But even if we sound like a nursery full of small children, we're God's children, and Jesus tells us to bring our troubles and concerns to Him in prayer. He loves us and promises to help us with our problems. When we bring Him our requests, we should also remember to thank Him for saving us from sin and answering our prayers."
"I know I'd like to hear thank you from Jalen once in a while," said Kylee. "I guess working in the nursery will help me be more thankful when I ask Jesus for things."
"That's one thing we can all ask Jesus to give us right now," said Dad. "A thankful heart."
-Heather M. Tekavec
How About You?
How do you sound when you talk to God? Do you sound like a little kid who asks for one thing after another and doesn't seem to appreciate what he has? Or do you take time to thank Jesus for all He's done for you? God loves you and wants to give you good gifts. Bring your problems and requests to Him in prayer, but do it with a heart full of gratitude for all He has given you.
Today's Key Verse:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. (NKJV) (Psalm 107:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Thank God for His goodness
Bible Reading: Luke 17:11-19
"Did you enjoy working in the nursery this morning, Kylee?" Mom asked as they headed home after church.
"I did--except for one little kid named Jalen," Kylee replied. "The only thing he said all morning was gimme! 'Gimme that toy. Gimme a juice box. Gimme, gimme, gimme!'"
Kylee's brother Micah grinned. "Sounds like you," he teased.
Kylee rolled her eyes. "Jalen doesn't appreciate anything you do for him or give him," she said. "Somebody should teach that kid to say thank you. Instead, the minute he gets what he wanted, he wants something else!"
"That's what two-year-olds are often like," Mom told her.
"In fact, it's what all of us are like sometimes," said Dad. "What Micah suggested isn't so far from the truth."
Kylee's mouth dropped open. "Dad!" She didn't like being compared to a two-year-old.
Dad laughed. "Relax, Kylee, I'm not just talking about you. I'm talking about all of us. We can all have a 'gimme' attitude at times--adults included."
"Adults?" Micah laughed. "They ask for juice boxes?"
"Well, maybe not that," said Mom. "But does this sound familiar? 'Dear God, please help me find a new job…and help the kids study hard and get good grades in school.'"
"And help me get a hit in our next ball game!" Micah chimed in.
"And help me eat healthier and exercise," added Dad with a grin.
Kylee laughed. "We all ask for a lot, don't we? I guess the world must seem like a great big nursery to God."
"You may be right," said Dad. "But even if we sound like a nursery full of small children, we're God's children, and Jesus tells us to bring our troubles and concerns to Him in prayer. He loves us and promises to help us with our problems. When we bring Him our requests, we should also remember to thank Him for saving us from sin and answering our prayers."
"I know I'd like to hear thank you from Jalen once in a while," said Kylee. "I guess working in the nursery will help me be more thankful when I ask Jesus for things."
"That's one thing we can all ask Jesus to give us right now," said Dad. "A thankful heart."
-Heather M. Tekavec
How About You?
How do you sound when you talk to God? Do you sound like a little kid who asks for one thing after another and doesn't seem to appreciate what he has? Or do you take time to thank Jesus for all He's done for you? God loves you and wants to give you good gifts. Bring your problems and requests to Him in prayer, but do it with a heart full of gratitude for all He has given you.
Today's Key Verse:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. (NKJV) (Psalm 107:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Thank God for His goodness
Bible Reading: Luke 17:11-19
"Did you enjoy working in the nursery this morning, Kylee?" Mom asked as they headed home after church.
"I did--except for one little kid named Jalen," Kylee replied. "The only thing he said all morning was gimme! 'Gimme that toy. Gimme a juice box. Gimme, gimme, gimme!'"
Kylee's brother Micah grinned. "Sounds like you," he teased.
Kylee rolled her eyes. "Jalen doesn't appreciate anything you do for him or give him," she said. "Somebody should teach that kid to say thank you. Instead, the minute he gets what he wanted, he wants something else!"
"That's what two-year-olds are often like," Mom told her.
"In fact, it's what all of us are like sometimes," said Dad. "What Micah suggested isn't so far from the truth."
Kylee's mouth dropped open. "Dad!" She didn't like being compared to a two-year-old.
Dad laughed. "Relax, Kylee, I'm not just talking about you. I'm talking about all of us. We can all have a 'gimme' attitude at times--adults included."
"Adults?" Micah laughed. "They ask for juice boxes?"
"Well, maybe not that," said Mom. "But does this sound familiar? 'Dear God, please help me find a new job…and help the kids study hard and get good grades in school.'"
"And help me get a hit in our next ball game!" Micah chimed in.
"And help me eat healthier and exercise," added Dad with a grin.
Kylee laughed. "We all ask for a lot, don't we? I guess the world must seem like a great big nursery to God."
"You may be right," said Dad. "But even if we sound like a nursery full of small children, we're God's children, and Jesus tells us to bring our troubles and concerns to Him in prayer. He loves us and promises to help us with our problems. When we bring Him our requests, we should also remember to thank Him for saving us from sin and answering our prayers."
"I know I'd like to hear thank you from Jalen once in a while," said Kylee. "I guess working in the nursery will help me be more thankful when I ask Jesus for things."
"That's one thing we can all ask Jesus to give us right now," said Dad. "A thankful heart."
-Heather M. Tekavec
How About You?
How do you sound when you talk to God? Do you sound like a little kid who asks for one thing after another and doesn't seem to appreciate what he has? Or do you take time to thank Jesus for all He's done for you? God loves you and wants to give you good gifts. Bring your problems and requests to Him in prayer, but do it with a heart full of gratitude for all He has given you.
Today's Key Verse:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. (NKJV) (Psalm 107:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Thank God for His goodness
Bible Reading: John 15:13-15; Ephesians 5:1-2
"Elena, wait a minute!" Hearing someone calling to her just as she was about to walk out to the bus, Elena paused.
Riley, a friend from school who had recently started attending Elena's church, approached her. "Can you help with the fall cleanup at church on Saturday?" she asked. "My family signed up to help, but no other kids I know are coming. It'd be really nice to have a friend there!"
"This Saturday?" asked Elena. "Um…I think my family might be out of town." She knew that wasn't likely, but she didn't want to spend her Saturday raking leaves.
Two days later, Elena walked into the kitchen as she talked on the phone. "Please, Nora," she said. "I need someone to quiz me…" She paused. "Okay, fine! Goodbye!"
"What's wrong, honey?" asked Mom.
"It's Nora!" Elena plopped down into a chair. "I spent two whole hours helping her study for her English test." Elena held up two fingers. "Two hours!" she repeated. "But when I asked her to help me with my science test, you know what she said? 'No way! I hate science!'" Elena scowled. "Nora's supposed to be my friend."
"I can understand how you feel," said Mom. "It hurts when we give our time and energy to help a friend but they won't return the favor. Let this be a reminder to be a faithful friend yourself--a friend like Jesus, who sacrificed so much when He became human and died for our sins so we could be His friends forever. Like Him, we should be willing to make sacrifices in our friendships too."
As Mom spoke, Elena remembered how Riley had asked her to come to the fall cleanup that weekend. Riley's always been a good friend to me, but I wasn't there for her when she needed a friend, Elena thought. I wasn't willing to sacrifice my Saturday for her.
Elena got up. "I've got to call Riley," she said. "She asked me to help with the fall cleanup at church on Saturday, and I want to tell her I can be there after all."
-Beth Ingram
How About You?
Are you a good friend to others--a friend like Jesus? Are you willing to make sacrifices when your friends ask for help? Or do you put yourself and your own needs first? Jesus sacrificed His life so we could be His friends and have eternal life with Him. He is always faithful and available to help you when you need Him. As His friends, we should imitate His love in our friendships with others. Be the kind of friend He is--one your friends can count on.
Today's Key Verse:
There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) (John 15:13 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be a friend like Jesus
Bible Reading: John 15:13-15; Ephesians 5:1-2
"Elena, wait a minute!" Hearing someone calling to her just as she was about to walk out to the bus, Elena paused.
Riley, a friend from school who had recently started attending Elena's church, approached her. "Can you help with the fall cleanup at church on Saturday?" she asked. "My family signed up to help, but no other kids I know are coming. It'd be really nice to have a friend there!"
"This Saturday?" asked Elena. "Um…I think my family might be out of town." She knew that wasn't likely, but she didn't want to spend her Saturday raking leaves.
Two days later, Elena walked into the kitchen as she talked on the phone. "Please, Nora," she said. "I need someone to quiz me…" She paused. "Okay, fine! Goodbye!"
"What's wrong, honey?" asked Mom.
"It's Nora!" Elena plopped down into a chair. "I spent two whole hours helping her study for her English test." Elena held up two fingers. "Two hours!" she repeated. "But when I asked her to help me with my science test, you know what she said? 'No way! I hate science!'" Elena scowled. "Nora's supposed to be my friend."
"I can understand how you feel," said Mom. "It hurts when we give our time and energy to help a friend but they won't return the favor. Let this be a reminder to be a faithful friend yourself--a friend like Jesus, who sacrificed so much when He became human and died for our sins so we could be His friends forever. Like Him, we should be willing to make sacrifices in our friendships too."
As Mom spoke, Elena remembered how Riley had asked her to come to the fall cleanup that weekend. Riley's always been a good friend to me, but I wasn't there for her when she needed a friend, Elena thought. I wasn't willing to sacrifice my Saturday for her.
Elena got up. "I've got to call Riley," she said. "She asked me to help with the fall cleanup at church on Saturday, and I want to tell her I can be there after all."
-Beth Ingram
How About You?
Are you a good friend to others--a friend like Jesus? Are you willing to make sacrifices when your friends ask for help? Or do you put yourself and your own needs first? Jesus sacrificed His life so we could be His friends and have eternal life with Him. He is always faithful and available to help you when you need Him. As His friends, we should imitate His love in our friendships with others. Be the kind of friend He is--one your friends can count on.
Today's Key Verse:
There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) (John 15:13 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be a friend like Jesus
Bible Reading: John 15:13-15; Ephesians 5:1-2
"Elena, wait a minute!" Hearing someone calling to her just as she was about to walk out to the bus, Elena paused.
Riley, a friend from school who had recently started attending Elena's church, approached her. "Can you help with the fall cleanup at church on Saturday?" she asked. "My family signed up to help, but no other kids I know are coming. It'd be really nice to have a friend there!"
"This Saturday?" asked Elena. "Um…I think my family might be out of town." She knew that wasn't likely, but she didn't want to spend her Saturday raking leaves.
Two days later, Elena walked into the kitchen as she talked on the phone. "Please, Nora," she said. "I need someone to quiz me…" She paused. "Okay, fine! Goodbye!"
"What's wrong, honey?" asked Mom.
"It's Nora!" Elena plopped down into a chair. "I spent two whole hours helping her study for her English test." Elena held up two fingers. "Two hours!" she repeated. "But when I asked her to help me with my science test, you know what she said? 'No way! I hate science!'" Elena scowled. "Nora's supposed to be my friend."
"I can understand how you feel," said Mom. "It hurts when we give our time and energy to help a friend but they won't return the favor. Let this be a reminder to be a faithful friend yourself--a friend like Jesus, who sacrificed so much when He became human and died for our sins so we could be His friends forever. Like Him, we should be willing to make sacrifices in our friendships too."
As Mom spoke, Elena remembered how Riley had asked her to come to the fall cleanup that weekend. Riley's always been a good friend to me, but I wasn't there for her when she needed a friend, Elena thought. I wasn't willing to sacrifice my Saturday for her.
Elena got up. "I've got to call Riley," she said. "She asked me to help with the fall cleanup at church on Saturday, and I want to tell her I can be there after all."
-Beth Ingram
How About You?
Are you a good friend to others--a friend like Jesus? Are you willing to make sacrifices when your friends ask for help? Or do you put yourself and your own needs first? Jesus sacrificed His life so we could be His friends and have eternal life with Him. He is always faithful and available to help you when you need Him. As His friends, we should imitate His love in our friendships with others. Be the kind of friend He is--one your friends can count on.
Today's Key Verse:
There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. (NLT) (John 15:13 )
Today's Key Thought:
Be a friend like Jesus
Bible Reading: Ezekiel 18:30-32; John 14:1-6
"Oh no!" exclaimed Uncle Dave as he noticed a road sign. "I was so busy talking that I missed the turnoff to the lake--about five miles back. I shouldn't have muted my phone."
Zeke looked at the map on Uncle Dave's phone. "According to this, if we stay on this road, we won't get anywhere near Black Lake." He looked at his uncle. "When you're on the wrong road, the sooner you turn around, the better." As Uncle Dave turned the car around, Zeke said, "All right, fish! Here we come! I hope you're biting today."
Uncle Dave laughed. "I hope they're biting too!" As they headed back in the direction they had come, he added, "I'm looking forward to having you come to church with me again this week."
"I was going to come, but…" Zeke hesitated. "It's just that, well, Mom and Dad don't think it's important to go to church, and I'm not sure I want to get into that religious stuff either."
"I'm sorry to hear that," said Uncle Dave. "Last week you said you really liked Pastor Green's message. You even said some of the things he talked about were beginning to make sense to you--like why Jesus had to die to save us from sin."
"Yeah, but…I don't know." Zeke sighed. "I don't really feel like getting into all that Jesus stuff right now. My friends would think I'm crazy. Maybe someday, but for now, well…I know I'm not perfect, but I'm not so bad either."
"The road we were just on wasn't a bad road," said Uncle Dave. "So why didn't we just continue going the way we were?"
"It doesn't go to Black Lake," said Zeke. "We'd never have gotten there."
"That's right. Like you said, when you're on the wrong road, the sooner you turn around, the better. That's true when it comes to life too. The Bible says there's only one way that leads to eternal life, and that's through Jesus. Think about it, buddy. Don't let anybody or anything keep you from turning around when you're going in the wrong direction in life."
Zeke pointed. "There's our turn!" Uncle Dave got on the road toward the lake, and as they drove, Zeke thought about his uncle's words.
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you need to go in a different direction in life? You do if you haven't trusted Jesus as your Savior. In today's Bible reading, God told Israel to turn away from sin and turn to Him. He wants you to do that too. Don't let habits, the opinions of others, or anything else keep you on the wrong road. Trust in Jesus now! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." (NKJV) (John 14:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Turn to Jesus
Bible Reading: Ezekiel 18:30-32; John 14:1-6
"Oh no!" exclaimed Uncle Dave as he noticed a road sign. "I was so busy talking that I missed the turnoff to the lake--about five miles back. I shouldn't have muted my phone."
Zeke looked at the map on Uncle Dave's phone. "According to this, if we stay on this road, we won't get anywhere near Black Lake." He looked at his uncle. "When you're on the wrong road, the sooner you turn around, the better." As Uncle Dave turned the car around, Zeke said, "All right, fish! Here we come! I hope you're biting today."
Uncle Dave laughed. "I hope they're biting too!" As they headed back in the direction they had come, he added, "I'm looking forward to having you come to church with me again this week."
"I was going to come, but…" Zeke hesitated. "It's just that, well, Mom and Dad don't think it's important to go to church, and I'm not sure I want to get into that religious stuff either."
"I'm sorry to hear that," said Uncle Dave. "Last week you said you really liked Pastor Green's message. You even said some of the things he talked about were beginning to make sense to you--like why Jesus had to die to save us from sin."
"Yeah, but…I don't know." Zeke sighed. "I don't really feel like getting into all that Jesus stuff right now. My friends would think I'm crazy. Maybe someday, but for now, well…I know I'm not perfect, but I'm not so bad either."
"The road we were just on wasn't a bad road," said Uncle Dave. "So why didn't we just continue going the way we were?"
"It doesn't go to Black Lake," said Zeke. "We'd never have gotten there."
"That's right. Like you said, when you're on the wrong road, the sooner you turn around, the better. That's true when it comes to life too. The Bible says there's only one way that leads to eternal life, and that's through Jesus. Think about it, buddy. Don't let anybody or anything keep you from turning around when you're going in the wrong direction in life."
Zeke pointed. "There's our turn!" Uncle Dave got on the road toward the lake, and as they drove, Zeke thought about his uncle's words.
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you need to go in a different direction in life? You do if you haven't trusted Jesus as your Savior. In today's Bible reading, God told Israel to turn away from sin and turn to Him. He wants you to do that too. Don't let habits, the opinions of others, or anything else keep you on the wrong road. Trust in Jesus now! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." (NKJV) (John 14:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Turn to Jesus
Bible Reading: Ezekiel 18:30-32; John 14:1-6
"Oh no!" exclaimed Uncle Dave as he noticed a road sign. "I was so busy talking that I missed the turnoff to the lake--about five miles back. I shouldn't have muted my phone."
Zeke looked at the map on Uncle Dave's phone. "According to this, if we stay on this road, we won't get anywhere near Black Lake." He looked at his uncle. "When you're on the wrong road, the sooner you turn around, the better." As Uncle Dave turned the car around, Zeke said, "All right, fish! Here we come! I hope you're biting today."
Uncle Dave laughed. "I hope they're biting too!" As they headed back in the direction they had come, he added, "I'm looking forward to having you come to church with me again this week."
"I was going to come, but…" Zeke hesitated. "It's just that, well, Mom and Dad don't think it's important to go to church, and I'm not sure I want to get into that religious stuff either."
"I'm sorry to hear that," said Uncle Dave. "Last week you said you really liked Pastor Green's message. You even said some of the things he talked about were beginning to make sense to you--like why Jesus had to die to save us from sin."
"Yeah, but…I don't know." Zeke sighed. "I don't really feel like getting into all that Jesus stuff right now. My friends would think I'm crazy. Maybe someday, but for now, well…I know I'm not perfect, but I'm not so bad either."
"The road we were just on wasn't a bad road," said Uncle Dave. "So why didn't we just continue going the way we were?"
"It doesn't go to Black Lake," said Zeke. "We'd never have gotten there."
"That's right. Like you said, when you're on the wrong road, the sooner you turn around, the better. That's true when it comes to life too. The Bible says there's only one way that leads to eternal life, and that's through Jesus. Think about it, buddy. Don't let anybody or anything keep you from turning around when you're going in the wrong direction in life."
Zeke pointed. "There's our turn!" Uncle Dave got on the road toward the lake, and as they drove, Zeke thought about his uncle's words.
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you need to go in a different direction in life? You do if you haven't trusted Jesus as your Savior. In today's Bible reading, God told Israel to turn away from sin and turn to Him. He wants you to do that too. Don't let habits, the opinions of others, or anything else keep you on the wrong road. Trust in Jesus now! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus said to him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me." (NKJV) (John 14:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Turn to Jesus
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
"I wish I could do something important at our special church service this week," Ranya said with a sigh. "Baylee, Hope, and Leah are singing a trio, Dexter and Aaron are going to play a trumpet duet, Roman's playing the piano, and Elodie's going to read her poem about prayer. Everybody's doing something--except me!"
"I thought you were helping in the nursery," said Mom.
"Oh, I always do that," said Ranya. "I'd like to do something that's really important for once."
Ranya's older brother, Tarek, limped into the room. "How's the toe you hurt yesterday?" asked Mom.
"Much better," said Tarek, sinking into a chair, "but it still hurts." He lifted his foot onto a stool. "I never realized how important a little toe is. I didn't ever think about my little toes until I hurt this one!"
Mom smiled. "Did you look at your little toes this morning, Ranya?" she asked.
Ranya laughed. "I don't think I did. How about you, Mom? Did you?"
"No, but I combed my hair and looked at my face," Mom said. "Did you do that too?"
"Sure," Ranya replied. "What are you getting at?"
"I'm just pointing out that we normally pay more attention to some parts of our bodies--like our hair and faces--than we do to others," said Mom. "Tarek reminded us that even our little toes are important, yet we don't pay much attention to them."
"And?" asked Ranya. "I know you've got some lesson in mind for us."
"Well, it's also like that with Christians," said Mom. "The Bible refers to us as the body of Christ. Together, we share the truth and love of Jesus with the world."
"Oh, I know what you're going to say now," said Ranya. "That my job in the nursery is just as important as the stuff the other kids are doing."
Mom grinned. "It is! But we tend to pay more attention to the people who are up in front and often fail to notice those who work in the nursery, provide coffee and snacks, or clean the church. But Jesus notices them, and He uses their faithful service to bring more people to Him. That's what counts."
"Okay, Mom," said Ranya. "I'll remember that while I hold crying babies!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you feel like no one notices the things you do for the Lord? Some jobs may seem more exciting or important than others, but the attention and praise of people is not what matters. Jesus sees how faithfully you do the work He has given you at church, school, and home, even when others don't notice. Each task is important in His sight as we work together to show the world who He is.
Today's Key Verse:
Those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 12:22)
Today's Key Thought:
You are important and needed
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
"I wish I could do something important at our special church service this week," Ranya said with a sigh. "Baylee, Hope, and Leah are singing a trio, Dexter and Aaron are going to play a trumpet duet, Roman's playing the piano, and Elodie's going to read her poem about prayer. Everybody's doing something--except me!"
"I thought you were helping in the nursery," said Mom.
"Oh, I always do that," said Ranya. "I'd like to do something that's really important for once."
Ranya's older brother, Tarek, limped into the room. "How's the toe you hurt yesterday?" asked Mom.
"Much better," said Tarek, sinking into a chair, "but it still hurts." He lifted his foot onto a stool. "I never realized how important a little toe is. I didn't ever think about my little toes until I hurt this one!"
Mom smiled. "Did you look at your little toes this morning, Ranya?" she asked.
Ranya laughed. "I don't think I did. How about you, Mom? Did you?"
"No, but I combed my hair and looked at my face," Mom said. "Did you do that too?"
"Sure," Ranya replied. "What are you getting at?"
"I'm just pointing out that we normally pay more attention to some parts of our bodies--like our hair and faces--than we do to others," said Mom. "Tarek reminded us that even our little toes are important, yet we don't pay much attention to them."
"And?" asked Ranya. "I know you've got some lesson in mind for us."
"Well, it's also like that with Christians," said Mom. "The Bible refers to us as the body of Christ. Together, we share the truth and love of Jesus with the world."
"Oh, I know what you're going to say now," said Ranya. "That my job in the nursery is just as important as the stuff the other kids are doing."
Mom grinned. "It is! But we tend to pay more attention to the people who are up in front and often fail to notice those who work in the nursery, provide coffee and snacks, or clean the church. But Jesus notices them, and He uses their faithful service to bring more people to Him. That's what counts."
"Okay, Mom," said Ranya. "I'll remember that while I hold crying babies!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you feel like no one notices the things you do for the Lord? Some jobs may seem more exciting or important than others, but the attention and praise of people is not what matters. Jesus sees how faithfully you do the work He has given you at church, school, and home, even when others don't notice. Each task is important in His sight as we work together to show the world who He is.
Today's Key Verse:
Those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 12:22)
Today's Key Thought:
You are important and needed
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
"I wish I could do something important at our special church service this week," Ranya said with a sigh. "Baylee, Hope, and Leah are singing a trio, Dexter and Aaron are going to play a trumpet duet, Roman's playing the piano, and Elodie's going to read her poem about prayer. Everybody's doing something--except me!"
"I thought you were helping in the nursery," said Mom.
"Oh, I always do that," said Ranya. "I'd like to do something that's really important for once."
Ranya's older brother, Tarek, limped into the room. "How's the toe you hurt yesterday?" asked Mom.
"Much better," said Tarek, sinking into a chair, "but it still hurts." He lifted his foot onto a stool. "I never realized how important a little toe is. I didn't ever think about my little toes until I hurt this one!"
Mom smiled. "Did you look at your little toes this morning, Ranya?" she asked.
Ranya laughed. "I don't think I did. How about you, Mom? Did you?"
"No, but I combed my hair and looked at my face," Mom said. "Did you do that too?"
"Sure," Ranya replied. "What are you getting at?"
"I'm just pointing out that we normally pay more attention to some parts of our bodies--like our hair and faces--than we do to others," said Mom. "Tarek reminded us that even our little toes are important, yet we don't pay much attention to them."
"And?" asked Ranya. "I know you've got some lesson in mind for us."
"Well, it's also like that with Christians," said Mom. "The Bible refers to us as the body of Christ. Together, we share the truth and love of Jesus with the world."
"Oh, I know what you're going to say now," said Ranya. "That my job in the nursery is just as important as the stuff the other kids are doing."
Mom grinned. "It is! But we tend to pay more attention to the people who are up in front and often fail to notice those who work in the nursery, provide coffee and snacks, or clean the church. But Jesus notices them, and He uses their faithful service to bring more people to Him. That's what counts."
"Okay, Mom," said Ranya. "I'll remember that while I hold crying babies!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you feel like no one notices the things you do for the Lord? Some jobs may seem more exciting or important than others, but the attention and praise of people is not what matters. Jesus sees how faithfully you do the work He has given you at church, school, and home, even when others don't notice. Each task is important in His sight as we work together to show the world who He is.
Today's Key Verse:
Those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 12:22)
Today's Key Thought:
You are important and needed
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-39
Cooper slumped down in his chair and pushed apple slices around on his plate. His mom noticed his discouraged look. "You've had a pretty crummy week, haven't you?" she said.
Cooper nodded. In just one week, he had argued with his best friend, gotten detention for disrupting class, and had to sit out soccer practice for starting a fight. Besides the trouble at school, he'd been punished for hitting his sister and lying to his dad.
"I can't stop doing things that are wrong, Mom," Cooper said. "I really want to do what's right, but I always end up doing something bad again. Have you…" Cooper hesitated, then hurried on to ask his question. "Have you ever wondered if God might stop loving you if you kept doing wrong stuff?"
Mom raised her eyebrows. "Is that worrying you?"
Cooper sighed. "Well, I just wonder sometimes. I'm always asking God to forgive something I did, but then I go and do some other bad thing. Seems like--" He stopped as his new puppy ran into the room with one of Cooper's sweatshirts in its mouth. "Oh no!" Cooper exclaimed. He quickly grabbed his dog, but one sleeve was already badly chewed. "Bad dog!" scolded Cooper, taking the shirt away.
"Don't you want to get rid of that puppy, Cooper?" Mom asked. "He's always chewing things, making messes, digging holes! He's so bad. You don't really want to keep him anymore, do you?"
"Of course I do!" said Cooper. "I don't like it when he's bad, but he's only a puppy. I'll teach him to be good. He's mine, and I'm not getting rid of him!"
Mom smiled. "Don't you think God feels the same way about you? He doesn't want to get rid of you; you're His child! Jesus sacrificed His life so you could belong to Him. He's not happy about it when you sin, but He wants to teach you how to do better." Mom scratched the puppy's drooping ears. "Every time you think of how much you care for this little rascal, think of how much more God cares for you! Then remember He is gracious and forgiving and trust Him to help you do what's right."
As Cooper looked at his puppy, his face broke into a bright smile.
-Jessica Van Dessel
How About You?
Have you thought God might stop loving you because you still sin? He won't. You're very precious to God--He sent His own Son to die for you so you could be His child! He won't stop loving you, but He may need to discipline you so you'll learn to do what's right. Confess your sin to Him, and learn from the discipline He gives through parents, teachers, and others in authority. God is patient and forgiving, and He will always love you.
Today's Key Verse:
Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NLT) (Romans 8:39)
Today's Key Thought:
God always loves you
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-39
Cooper slumped down in his chair and pushed apple slices around on his plate. His mom noticed his discouraged look. "You've had a pretty crummy week, haven't you?" she said.
Cooper nodded. In just one week, he had argued with his best friend, gotten detention for disrupting class, and had to sit out soccer practice for starting a fight. Besides the trouble at school, he'd been punished for hitting his sister and lying to his dad.
"I can't stop doing things that are wrong, Mom," Cooper said. "I really want to do what's right, but I always end up doing something bad again. Have you…" Cooper hesitated, then hurried on to ask his question. "Have you ever wondered if God might stop loving you if you kept doing wrong stuff?"
Mom raised her eyebrows. "Is that worrying you?"
Cooper sighed. "Well, I just wonder sometimes. I'm always asking God to forgive something I did, but then I go and do some other bad thing. Seems like--" He stopped as his new puppy ran into the room with one of Cooper's sweatshirts in its mouth. "Oh no!" Cooper exclaimed. He quickly grabbed his dog, but one sleeve was already badly chewed. "Bad dog!" scolded Cooper, taking the shirt away.
"Don't you want to get rid of that puppy, Cooper?" Mom asked. "He's always chewing things, making messes, digging holes! He's so bad. You don't really want to keep him anymore, do you?"
"Of course I do!" said Cooper. "I don't like it when he's bad, but he's only a puppy. I'll teach him to be good. He's mine, and I'm not getting rid of him!"
Mom smiled. "Don't you think God feels the same way about you? He doesn't want to get rid of you; you're His child! Jesus sacrificed His life so you could belong to Him. He's not happy about it when you sin, but He wants to teach you how to do better." Mom scratched the puppy's drooping ears. "Every time you think of how much you care for this little rascal, think of how much more God cares for you! Then remember He is gracious and forgiving and trust Him to help you do what's right."
As Cooper looked at his puppy, his face broke into a bright smile.
-Jessica Van Dessel
How About You?
Have you thought God might stop loving you because you still sin? He won't. You're very precious to God--He sent His own Son to die for you so you could be His child! He won't stop loving you, but He may need to discipline you so you'll learn to do what's right. Confess your sin to Him, and learn from the discipline He gives through parents, teachers, and others in authority. God is patient and forgiving, and He will always love you.
Today's Key Verse:
Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NLT) (Romans 8:39)
Today's Key Thought:
God always loves you
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-39
Cooper slumped down in his chair and pushed apple slices around on his plate. His mom noticed his discouraged look. "You've had a pretty crummy week, haven't you?" she said.
Cooper nodded. In just one week, he had argued with his best friend, gotten detention for disrupting class, and had to sit out soccer practice for starting a fight. Besides the trouble at school, he'd been punished for hitting his sister and lying to his dad.
"I can't stop doing things that are wrong, Mom," Cooper said. "I really want to do what's right, but I always end up doing something bad again. Have you…" Cooper hesitated, then hurried on to ask his question. "Have you ever wondered if God might stop loving you if you kept doing wrong stuff?"
Mom raised her eyebrows. "Is that worrying you?"
Cooper sighed. "Well, I just wonder sometimes. I'm always asking God to forgive something I did, but then I go and do some other bad thing. Seems like--" He stopped as his new puppy ran into the room with one of Cooper's sweatshirts in its mouth. "Oh no!" Cooper exclaimed. He quickly grabbed his dog, but one sleeve was already badly chewed. "Bad dog!" scolded Cooper, taking the shirt away.
"Don't you want to get rid of that puppy, Cooper?" Mom asked. "He's always chewing things, making messes, digging holes! He's so bad. You don't really want to keep him anymore, do you?"
"Of course I do!" said Cooper. "I don't like it when he's bad, but he's only a puppy. I'll teach him to be good. He's mine, and I'm not getting rid of him!"
Mom smiled. "Don't you think God feels the same way about you? He doesn't want to get rid of you; you're His child! Jesus sacrificed His life so you could belong to Him. He's not happy about it when you sin, but He wants to teach you how to do better." Mom scratched the puppy's drooping ears. "Every time you think of how much you care for this little rascal, think of how much more God cares for you! Then remember He is gracious and forgiving and trust Him to help you do what's right."
As Cooper looked at his puppy, his face broke into a bright smile.
-Jessica Van Dessel
How About You?
Have you thought God might stop loving you because you still sin? He won't. You're very precious to God--He sent His own Son to die for you so you could be His child! He won't stop loving you, but He may need to discipline you so you'll learn to do what's right. Confess your sin to Him, and learn from the discipline He gives through parents, teachers, and others in authority. God is patient and forgiving, and He will always love you.
Today's Key Verse:
Nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NLT) (Romans 8:39)
Today's Key Thought:
God always loves you
Bible Reading: Galatians 6:7-10
"Everything looks delicious," said Miguel's dad as the family began to eat. There was a twinkle in his eye as he added, "Please pass the watermelon, Miguel."
Miguel paused with his fork halfway to his mouth. "Watermelon?" he asked, looking around. "What watermelon?"
"Right there in that bowl in front of you," said Dad.
Miguel looked at the bowl heaped full of golden squash. He was about to protest when he suddenly understood. "Oh, uh, sure, Dad. Here's the watermelon." Miguel laughed as he passed the bowl of squash.
"I don't get it," Miguel's sister Celina said with a frown. "That's squash. Why are you calling it watermelon?"
Dad grinned and waited for Miguel to explain, but Miguel got busy eating and pretended not to hear the question. Celina repeated it. "Well…uh…" Miguel began. "I just made a little mistake when we were planting the garden, that's all--but Dad won't let me forget it."
Celina looked at her father. "What did he do?" she asked.
"Miguel wanted to grow watermelons," Dad explained, "and I told him he was using squash seeds. But would he believe me? Oh no! He insisted they were watermelon seeds."
"It was a perfectly understandable mistake," Miguel said. "They look a lot alike."
"Miguel told me if I'd just be patient and wait until they grew, I'd see for myself," continued Dad. "I waited…and here's the finished product." As Dad held up the bowl of squash, Miguel couldn't help but laugh along with everyone else.
"Like the Bible says, you reap what you sow," said Mom. "That sure is true, both in a garden and in life. We all need to make sure we sow the right kind of seeds."
"Especially in our lives," said Dad. "If we live to please ourselves and sow evil deeds, we can expect to reap evil and sorrow. But if we put our faith in Jesus and sow good things that come from His Spirit living inside of us, we can expect to reap joy and blessings."
Mom nodded. "Whatever we plant in life is what we'll get. That's why we must trust in Jesus and depend on Him to produce His love and goodness in us."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
What are you sowing in your life? Are you living to please yourself and sowing things like selfishness, lies, and greed? Or are you trusting God to help you sow good things such as love, kindness, and forgiveness? The Bible tells us we can't produce anything good in our lives without Jesus. Trust Him as your Savior. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then depend on the Holy Spirit to help you sow seeds that will reap joy and blessing.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) (Galatians 6:8)
Today's Key Thought:
You reap what you sow
Bible Reading: Galatians 6:7-10
"Everything looks delicious," said Miguel's dad as the family began to eat. There was a twinkle in his eye as he added, "Please pass the watermelon, Miguel."
Miguel paused with his fork halfway to his mouth. "Watermelon?" he asked, looking around. "What watermelon?"
"Right there in that bowl in front of you," said Dad.
Miguel looked at the bowl heaped full of golden squash. He was about to protest when he suddenly understood. "Oh, uh, sure, Dad. Here's the watermelon." Miguel laughed as he passed the bowl of squash.
"I don't get it," Miguel's sister Celina said with a frown. "That's squash. Why are you calling it watermelon?"
Dad grinned and waited for Miguel to explain, but Miguel got busy eating and pretended not to hear the question. Celina repeated it. "Well…uh…" Miguel began. "I just made a little mistake when we were planting the garden, that's all--but Dad won't let me forget it."
Celina looked at her father. "What did he do?" she asked.
"Miguel wanted to grow watermelons," Dad explained, "and I told him he was using squash seeds. But would he believe me? Oh no! He insisted they were watermelon seeds."
"It was a perfectly understandable mistake," Miguel said. "They look a lot alike."
"Miguel told me if I'd just be patient and wait until they grew, I'd see for myself," continued Dad. "I waited…and here's the finished product." As Dad held up the bowl of squash, Miguel couldn't help but laugh along with everyone else.
"Like the Bible says, you reap what you sow," said Mom. "That sure is true, both in a garden and in life. We all need to make sure we sow the right kind of seeds."
"Especially in our lives," said Dad. "If we live to please ourselves and sow evil deeds, we can expect to reap evil and sorrow. But if we put our faith in Jesus and sow good things that come from His Spirit living inside of us, we can expect to reap joy and blessings."
Mom nodded. "Whatever we plant in life is what we'll get. That's why we must trust in Jesus and depend on Him to produce His love and goodness in us."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
What are you sowing in your life? Are you living to please yourself and sowing things like selfishness, lies, and greed? Or are you trusting God to help you sow good things such as love, kindness, and forgiveness? The Bible tells us we can't produce anything good in our lives without Jesus. Trust Him as your Savior. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then depend on the Holy Spirit to help you sow seeds that will reap joy and blessing.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) (Galatians 6:8)
Today's Key Thought:
You reap what you sow
Bible Reading: Galatians 6:7-10
"Everything looks delicious," said Miguel's dad as the family began to eat. There was a twinkle in his eye as he added, "Please pass the watermelon, Miguel."
Miguel paused with his fork halfway to his mouth. "Watermelon?" he asked, looking around. "What watermelon?"
"Right there in that bowl in front of you," said Dad.
Miguel looked at the bowl heaped full of golden squash. He was about to protest when he suddenly understood. "Oh, uh, sure, Dad. Here's the watermelon." Miguel laughed as he passed the bowl of squash.
"I don't get it," Miguel's sister Celina said with a frown. "That's squash. Why are you calling it watermelon?"
Dad grinned and waited for Miguel to explain, but Miguel got busy eating and pretended not to hear the question. Celina repeated it. "Well…uh…" Miguel began. "I just made a little mistake when we were planting the garden, that's all--but Dad won't let me forget it."
Celina looked at her father. "What did he do?" she asked.
"Miguel wanted to grow watermelons," Dad explained, "and I told him he was using squash seeds. But would he believe me? Oh no! He insisted they were watermelon seeds."
"It was a perfectly understandable mistake," Miguel said. "They look a lot alike."
"Miguel told me if I'd just be patient and wait until they grew, I'd see for myself," continued Dad. "I waited…and here's the finished product." As Dad held up the bowl of squash, Miguel couldn't help but laugh along with everyone else.
"Like the Bible says, you reap what you sow," said Mom. "That sure is true, both in a garden and in life. We all need to make sure we sow the right kind of seeds."
"Especially in our lives," said Dad. "If we live to please ourselves and sow evil deeds, we can expect to reap evil and sorrow. But if we put our faith in Jesus and sow good things that come from His Spirit living inside of us, we can expect to reap joy and blessings."
Mom nodded. "Whatever we plant in life is what we'll get. That's why we must trust in Jesus and depend on Him to produce His love and goodness in us."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
What are you sowing in your life? Are you living to please yourself and sowing things like selfishness, lies, and greed? Or are you trusting God to help you sow good things such as love, kindness, and forgiveness? The Bible tells us we can't produce anything good in our lives without Jesus. Trust Him as your Savior. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then depend on the Holy Spirit to help you sow seeds that will reap joy and blessing.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. (NIV) (Galatians 6:8)
Today's Key Thought:
You reap what you sow
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:23-24; Romans 12:17-19; Colossians 3:13
Alayna placed two fluffy pillows on a chair and turned to survey her bedroom.
"It was so much fun fixing up this room!" she said. "The curtains and quilt we made are so pretty, and they look so good with the new paint. Even my old furniture looks nice since we refinished it. I'm glad we decided to save money by doing it ourselves instead of buying all new stuff."
"Do-it-yourself jobs are hard work, but it's so satisfying to see what you've accomplished, isn't it?" said Mom as she looked around the room. "Why don't you call Victoria and invite her to come over? I'm sure she'd enjoy seeing your room."
"She wouldn't come," said Alayna. "We're not speaking to each other."
"You aren't?" Mom raised her eyebrows. "What happened?"
"She got mad because I didn't sit with her at lunch yesterday. I would have, but Lily asked me to eat with her. Victoria said that was mean of me, and now she won't talk to me!" Tears filled Alayna's eyes. "I even prayed about it. I asked God to make her apologize to me, but she hasn't."
"Maybe God wants you to apologize to Victoria," Mom said.
"I didn't do anything wrong!" Alayna exclaimed.
"Are you sure? Why didn't you ask Victoria to join you and Lily? She probably thought you didn't want to eat with her, and that hurt her feelings." Mom paused. "We often want God to take care of our problems when there's something He expects us to do for ourselves. One thing He wants us to do is to go to the person we have a problem with and try to work it out--even if it's not our fault."
"But it's so hard to do!" said Alayna.
"I know," said Mom. "Settling differences with someone is a hard do-it-yourself job, but the results are worth the effort. And you won't really be doing it by yourself--Jesus will be with you. Remember that He has love and compassion for both you and Victoria as you try to see things from her perspective."
"Okay. I'll talk to her," Alayna said.
A little later, Victoria came over to see Alayna's room. Mom smiled when she heard Alayna say, "Do-it-yourself jobs are hard, but they're worth it."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Are you not getting along with someone? God says you should go to that person--even if the problem isn't your fault--and do what you can to renew your friendship. Go humbly, recognizing that fault often lies on both sides. Be willing to apologize for your part in the disagreement. Remember that Jesus loves that person, just like He loves you, and try to see things from their angle. It's not easy, but it's worth the effort.
Today's Key Verse:
If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. (NIV)
(Matthew 18:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Do your part to settle differences
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:23-24; Romans 12:17-19; Colossians 3:13
Alayna placed two fluffy pillows on a chair and turned to survey her bedroom.
"It was so much fun fixing up this room!" she said. "The curtains and quilt we made are so pretty, and they look so good with the new paint. Even my old furniture looks nice since we refinished it. I'm glad we decided to save money by doing it ourselves instead of buying all new stuff."
"Do-it-yourself jobs are hard work, but it's so satisfying to see what you've accomplished, isn't it?" said Mom as she looked around the room. "Why don't you call Victoria and invite her to come over? I'm sure she'd enjoy seeing your room."
"She wouldn't come," said Alayna. "We're not speaking to each other."
"You aren't?" Mom raised her eyebrows. "What happened?"
"She got mad because I didn't sit with her at lunch yesterday. I would have, but Lily asked me to eat with her. Victoria said that was mean of me, and now she won't talk to me!" Tears filled Alayna's eyes. "I even prayed about it. I asked God to make her apologize to me, but she hasn't."
"Maybe God wants you to apologize to Victoria," Mom said.
"I didn't do anything wrong!" Alayna exclaimed.
"Are you sure? Why didn't you ask Victoria to join you and Lily? She probably thought you didn't want to eat with her, and that hurt her feelings." Mom paused. "We often want God to take care of our problems when there's something He expects us to do for ourselves. One thing He wants us to do is to go to the person we have a problem with and try to work it out--even if it's not our fault."
"But it's so hard to do!" said Alayna.
"I know," said Mom. "Settling differences with someone is a hard do-it-yourself job, but the results are worth the effort. And you won't really be doing it by yourself--Jesus will be with you. Remember that He has love and compassion for both you and Victoria as you try to see things from her perspective."
"Okay. I'll talk to her," Alayna said.
A little later, Victoria came over to see Alayna's room. Mom smiled when she heard Alayna say, "Do-it-yourself jobs are hard, but they're worth it."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Are you not getting along with someone? God says you should go to that person--even if the problem isn't your fault--and do what you can to renew your friendship. Go humbly, recognizing that fault often lies on both sides. Be willing to apologize for your part in the disagreement. Remember that Jesus loves that person, just like He loves you, and try to see things from their angle. It's not easy, but it's worth the effort.
Today's Key Verse:
If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. (NIV)
(Matthew 18:15)
Today's Key Thought:
Do your part to settle differences
Bible Reading: Romans 3:22-26
Michael bolted out of the car and ran to the dock. His special day was finally here! Mom had secretly saved some money for a special treat: a water tour of the spectacular rock formations on the coast near their hometown.
When they were finally out on the water, Michael couldn't stop looking at all the colors of the cliffs, but the pilot couldn't stop watching the dark clouds on the horizon. "I know we haven't seen the full tour yet, but I don't like the look of the weather," he told the passengers. "We're heading back. Please make sure your life vests are on securely."
Shocked, Michael finally tore his eyes off the cliffs. The waves piled up bigger and bigger, and a fierce wind plucked at the edges of his jacket. They were still a long way from the dock when suddenly a huge wave tipped their boat over!
"Mom! Mom, where are you?" Michael spluttered frantically, trying to clear his eyes in the water. He suddenly felt a strong arm across his chest, and he was scooped up out of the ocean.
"Kid, are you okay? Can you breathe? Talk to me!" a woman's voice said urgently.
Michael blinked the seawater away and saw his mom and another woman in a blue uniform. They were rescued!
As she checked Michael for injuries, the woman said, "We saw a storm come up on radar, and the schedule showed that your tour would be too far away to get to safety before the storm arrived, so we were dispatched to come find you."
Michael couldn't believe how God had taken care of them. They had no idea they would even be in trouble, but He had worked to save them even then!
Later, Mom and Michael talked about their day. Michael asked, "That's what Jesus did for us, right? Long ago, before anyone knew we needed to be saved from our sins, He already had a plan to take care of us on the cross."
"You're right, and there was nothing we could do to save ourselves then, just like we couldn't save ourselves in the water. We needed Jesus to save us both of those times," Mom replied.
Despite the scary day, Michael smiled knowing that Jesus had saved him twice.
-Nicole Kraayenbrink
How About You?
Did you know you need to be saved from sin--the bad things you've done? God loves you, and so He came up with a plan to rescue you. Jesus took the punishment for your sins Himself by dying on the cross. When He rose again three days later, He showed He is more powerful than sin and death, and He's powerful enough to rescue you. Trust Him to save you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (NIV) (Romans 3:23-24)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus to save you
Bible Reading: Romans 3:22-26
Michael bolted out of the car and ran to the dock. His special day was finally here! Mom had secretly saved some money for a special treat: a water tour of the spectacular rock formations on the coast near their hometown.
When they were finally out on the water, Michael couldn't stop looking at all the colors of the cliffs, but the pilot couldn't stop watching the dark clouds on the horizon. "I know we haven't seen the full tour yet, but I don't like the look of the weather," he told the passengers. "We're heading back. Please make sure your life vests are on securely."
Shocked, Michael finally tore his eyes off the cliffs. The waves piled up bigger and bigger, and a fierce wind plucked at the edges of his jacket. They were still a long way from the dock when suddenly a huge wave tipped their boat over!
"Mom! Mom, where are you?" Michael spluttered frantically, trying to clear his eyes in the water. He suddenly felt a strong arm across his chest, and he was scooped up out of the ocean.
"Kid, are you okay? Can you breathe? Talk to me!" a woman's voice said urgently.
Michael blinked the seawater away and saw his mom and another woman in a blue uniform. They were rescued!
As she checked Michael for injuries, the woman said, "We saw a storm come up on radar, and the schedule showed that your tour would be too far away to get to safety before the storm arrived, so we were dispatched to come find you."
Michael couldn't believe how God had taken care of them. They had no idea they would even be in trouble, but He had worked to save them even then!
Later, Mom and Michael talked about their day. Michael asked, "That's what Jesus did for us, right? Long ago, before anyone knew we needed to be saved from our sins, He already had a plan to take care of us on the cross."
"You're right, and there was nothing we could do to save ourselves then, just like we couldn't save ourselves in the water. We needed Jesus to save us both of those times," Mom replied.
Despite the scary day, Michael smiled knowing that Jesus had saved him twice.
-Nicole Kraayenbrink
How About You?
Did you know you need to be saved from sin--the bad things you've done? God loves you, and so He came up with a plan to rescue you. Jesus took the punishment for your sins Himself by dying on the cross. When He rose again three days later, He showed He is more powerful than sin and death, and He's powerful enough to rescue you. Trust Him to save you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus. (NIV) (Romans 3:23-24)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus to save you
Bible Reading: Matthew 7:24-27
"I don't want you to move out," Jenna said with a cry as she gave her big sister another hug. "This is my last year of elementary school. How can I face it without you here?"
Melanie eased back and knelt down on the driveway. She wiped a tear away from Jenna's eyes and took her sister's hands in hers. "Jenna, you knew this was coming. I can't stay at home forever."
"Why not? You don't have to move away to college, do you? Too much is changing." Jenna couldn't hold back another sob from slipping out.
Melanie thought a moment, and then she reached into the nearby grass, took a large stone, and dropped it into her little sister's hand. "Here. After I leave, I want you to display this on your dresser."
"What? Why?"
"Remember when that tornado came through here? It wasn't a big one, but it was still powerful enough to rip apart buildings that weren't strong enough to handle the winds. But buildings that were built on a strong foundation stood firm and didn't get swept away."
"What does this stone have to do with the tornado?" Jenna looked down curiously at the rock.
"I want it to serve as your reminder. Life will always bring new winds of change. But as long as we remain firm on the foundation of our faith in Jesus, those tornadoes of change may rattle us, but they don't have the power to sweep away our place of refuge in Him. He's our Rock."
Jenna's bottom lip quivered. "But I'm still going to miss you."
"I'll miss you too. But let Jesus be the source of your security, okay?"
Jenna nodded as a powerful breeze toyed with her ponytail. She clasped the stone in her hand. "Jesus isn't going to leave me too, is He?"
Melanie smoothed a hand over her sister's hair. "Of course not. He will never abandon those who trust in Him. He will always be with you and give you the rock-solid stability you need to stay steadfast during winds of change. I promise."
"In that case, I'm going to trust Him for as long as I live." Jenna grinned and gave her sister one last hug.
-Tessa Emily Hall
How About You?
What kind of changes have you experienced as you've grown older? Maybe you've started a new school or, like Jenna, have had a sibling move out. Life will always present new changes, but if you know Jesus as your Savior, He is your rock-solid foundation that will never change. Your eternal security is in Him, and you can trust Him to be with you through all of life's changes.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (NKJV)
(Psalm 18:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is our rock-solid foundation
Bible Reading: Matthew 7:24-27
"I don't want you to move out," Jenna said with a cry as she gave her big sister another hug. "This is my last year of elementary school. How can I face it without you here?"
Melanie eased back and knelt down on the driveway. She wiped a tear away from Jenna's eyes and took her sister's hands in hers. "Jenna, you knew this was coming. I can't stay at home forever."
"Why not? You don't have to move away to college, do you? Too much is changing." Jenna couldn't hold back another sob from slipping out.
Melanie thought a moment, and then she reached into the nearby grass, took a large stone, and dropped it into her little sister's hand. "Here. After I leave, I want you to display this on your dresser."
"What? Why?"
"Remember when that tornado came through here? It wasn't a big one, but it was still powerful enough to rip apart buildings that weren't strong enough to handle the winds. But buildings that were built on a strong foundation stood firm and didn't get swept away."
"What does this stone have to do with the tornado?" Jenna looked down curiously at the rock.
"I want it to serve as your reminder. Life will always bring new winds of change. But as long as we remain firm on the foundation of our faith in Jesus, those tornadoes of change may rattle us, but they don't have the power to sweep away our place of refuge in Him. He's our Rock."
Jenna's bottom lip quivered. "But I'm still going to miss you."
"I'll miss you too. But let Jesus be the source of your security, okay?"
Jenna nodded as a powerful breeze toyed with her ponytail. She clasped the stone in her hand. "Jesus isn't going to leave me too, is He?"
Melanie smoothed a hand over her sister's hair. "Of course not. He will never abandon those who trust in Him. He will always be with you and give you the rock-solid stability you need to stay steadfast during winds of change. I promise."
"In that case, I'm going to trust Him for as long as I live." Jenna grinned and gave her sister one last hug.
-Tessa Emily Hall
How About You?
What kind of changes have you experienced as you've grown older? Maybe you've started a new school or, like Jenna, have had a sibling move out. Life will always present new changes, but if you know Jesus as your Savior, He is your rock-solid foundation that will never change. Your eternal security is in Him, and you can trust Him to be with you through all of life's changes.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. (NKJV)
(Psalm 18:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is our rock-solid foundation
Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14-17
Cole turned over to avoid the sunlight streaming through the window and snuggled back down under the covers. Then he remembered he was at his grandparents' farm for a visit. Quickly, he jumped out of bed, got dressed, and went to the kitchen where Grandma was fixing breakfast.
"Grandpa is doing chores," said Grandma, "but I think there's enough time for you to have your devotions before he comes in for breakfast. Your mom said she's trying to help you get you into the habit of doing that each day. Did you bring your devotional book?"
"I forgot it," Cole said. "Besides, I've already read most of the stories in it."
"How about the Bible passages that go along with the stories?" Grandma asked. "That's the most important part, you know. The stories are meant to help you understand the truth of God's Word so you can grow as a Christian."
Cole shrugged. "It doesn't seem to make any difference if I read it or not."
"Hmm," murmured Grandma. "By the way, when Grandpa comes in for breakfast, do you want to eat too, Cole?"
"I sure do! I'm hungry!" Cole grinned, remembering the yummy meals his grandma made.
"Okay," said Grandma. "Did you eat yesterday?"
"Sure," replied Cole, surprised by the question.
"Well, if you had food yesterday, you must be bigger now than when you got here." Grandma looked at him closely. "Stand up so I can see how tall you are now."
"Bigger?" asked Cole. "What do you mean? Why would I be bigger?"
"If you ate yesterday, won't you have grown some?" Grandma asked.
Cole was puzzled. "A tiny bit maybe, but you can't see any difference from one day to the next. It takes time before you notice you've grown."
Grandma nodded. "It's that way with spiritual food too. As you spend time with Jesus, He uses the truth and promises of His Word to help you grow little by little. That's the way He does it. Don't stop having devotions because you don't see immediate growth. Trust Jesus to help you know Him better and grow in your faith, little by little."
Cole was quiet for a minute as he thought about that. Then he asked, "Hey, Grandma? Do you have a Bible I can borrow?"
-Esther M. Bailey
How About You?
Do you set aside time to talk with Jesus and read His Word, the Bible? Does it seem like nothing is happening as a result? Growth may be slow at times, but when you regularly spend time with Jesus and listen to the truth of His Word, you're getting the spiritual nourishment you need to grow as a Christian. So faithfully spend time with Jesus. He'll help you grow and will change you little by little, day by day.
Today's Key Verse:
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (NKJV)
(2 Peter 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Spend time with Jesus each day
Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14-17
Cole turned over to avoid the sunlight streaming through the window and snuggled back down under the covers. Then he remembered he was at his grandparents' farm for a visit. Quickly, he jumped out of bed, got dressed, and went to the kitchen where Grandma was fixing breakfast.
"Grandpa is doing chores," said Grandma, "but I think there's enough time for you to have your devotions before he comes in for breakfast. Your mom said she's trying to help you get you into the habit of doing that each day. Did you bring your devotional book?"
"I forgot it," Cole said. "Besides, I've already read most of the stories in it."
"How about the Bible passages that go along with the stories?" Grandma asked. "That's the most important part, you know. The stories are meant to help you understand the truth of God's Word so you can grow as a Christian."
Cole shrugged. "It doesn't seem to make any difference if I read it or not."
"Hmm," murmured Grandma. "By the way, when Grandpa comes in for breakfast, do you want to eat too, Cole?"
"I sure do! I'm hungry!" Cole grinned, remembering the yummy meals his grandma made.
"Okay," said Grandma. "Did you eat yesterday?"
"Sure," replied Cole, surprised by the question.
"Well, if you had food yesterday, you must be bigger now than when you got here." Grandma looked at him closely. "Stand up so I can see how tall you are now."
"Bigger?" asked Cole. "What do you mean? Why would I be bigger?"
"If you ate yesterday, won't you have grown some?" Grandma asked.
Cole was puzzled. "A tiny bit maybe, but you can't see any difference from one day to the next. It takes time before you notice you've grown."
Grandma nodded. "It's that way with spiritual food too. As you spend time with Jesus, He uses the truth and promises of His Word to help you grow little by little. That's the way He does it. Don't stop having devotions because you don't see immediate growth. Trust Jesus to help you know Him better and grow in your faith, little by little."
Cole was quiet for a minute as he thought about that. Then he asked, "Hey, Grandma? Do you have a Bible I can borrow?"
-Esther M. Bailey
How About You?
Do you set aside time to talk with Jesus and read His Word, the Bible? Does it seem like nothing is happening as a result? Growth may be slow at times, but when you regularly spend time with Jesus and listen to the truth of His Word, you're getting the spiritual nourishment you need to grow as a Christian. So faithfully spend time with Jesus. He'll help you grow and will change you little by little, day by day.
Today's Key Verse:
Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (NKJV)
(2 Peter 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Spend time with Jesus each day
Bible Reading: Mark 4:35-4
Lightning flashed and thunder boomed, rattling the house and flooding the living room with flashes of light. Moments later, there was a thud of feet hitting the floor, followed by quick footsteps. Mom looked up from the sofa to see six-year-old Matthew standing outside his bedroom door, his face filled with fear. Mom opened her arms, and Matthew raced into her embrace, burying his head in her arm.
"Is the thunder and lightning scaring you?" Mom asked in a quiet voice.
Matthew nodded his still-buried head, and his whole body trembled.
"You know, Matthew, when I was a little girl, I was afraid of thunderstorms too."
Matthew peeked his eyes out from his hiding place. "Really?" he asked in a tiny whisper.
"Really," Mom replied. "Do you remember the story from Sunday school about the disciples who were in the boat with Jesus when a horrible storm came upon them?"
Matthew looked up at his mother with wide eyes. "Yes, Mommy! The storm was so big, and the disciples were very scared--just like me!"
"Do you remember what Jesus was doing in the storm?" Mom asked.
Matthew nodded. "He was sleeping because He wasn't afraid. But the disciples were super scared, and so they woke Jesus up! Then Jesus told the storm to stop, and it did!"
"Do you remember what Jesus said when the disciples woke Him up?" Mom asked. Matthew shook his head, so Mom continued. "He said, 'Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?' Matthew, even the wind and waves obey Jesus, because He created them! He is powerful, and He's always with those who trust in Him, just like He was with the disciples. When we feel afraid, we need to have faith that He will take care of us."
"I think I'm ready to go back to bed now, Mommy," Matthew said. He reached for his mother's hand and led her down the hallway to his bedroom.
"Are you sure? The storm isn't finished yet," Mom replied.
"It's okay. If the disciples didn't need to be afraid in the storm, then I don't need be afraid either."
Mother smiled as she tucked Matthew snuggly into his bed. "Good night, Matty-bear."
"Good night, Mommy. Good night, Jesus," Matthew whispered and closed his eyes.
-Jillian Ursu
How About You?
Do you feel afraid when lightning flashes and thunder rumbles? Or maybe it's another kind of storm that's filling you with fear--a life-storm like a parent losing their job or someone you love being sick. Jesus has power over the wind and waves, and He's in control of your situation too. Even when bad things happen, He is with you. When you feel afraid, trust Him to take care of you.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus] got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, "Quiet! Be still!" Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. (NIV)
(Mark 4:39)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus when you're afraid
Bible Reading: 2 Peter 3:3-14
"Mom, do you think Jesus really will come back someday?" Preston asked as he and his little sister Londyn climbed into the car after Bible club. "I mean, it just seems like all my life I've been told He will. Our Bible club lesson was about that today. But it never happens."
"See what I got in Bible club," said Londyn before Mom could respond to Preston. Londyn held up a balloon. "Blow it up for me, Preston."
Preston took the balloon, blew air into it, and returned it to his sister.
"Blow it bigger," said Londyn, handing it back to Preston. He took it and blew more air into it, then paused and looked at Londyn. "Bigger," she told him, so once again Preston blew the balloon bigger.
"There," he said, looking at the balloon. "That's about as big as it will go. Want me to tie it for you?"
"No," said Londyn. "Blow it some more. I want it bigger!"
"It will pop," said Preston, but Londyn insisted. So Preston carefully blew a little more air into the balloon. Each time he stopped, Londyn told him to blow it bigger.
Finally, it happened. The balloon could stretch no further. It popped with a loud bang, and Londyn burst into tears.
"It's too bad it popped, Londyn," Mom said. "But Preston warned you it would break."
When Londyn had quieted down, Mom turned to Preston. "This reminds me of your question," she said. "Jesus hasn't returned yet because He's patient and loving and wants everyone to have an opportunity to be saved. He wants as many people as possible to come to know Him and be rescued from their sins. But just like Londyn's balloon was stretched to the point where it burst, the time of opportunity before Jesus's return will be stretched to the point when He will finally come again. It may not be in our lifetime, but it could also be today."
"I hope it's soon," said Preston.
"Me too," said Mom. "When Jesus comes back, He will right every wrong and make all things new--free from sin and death."
"I can't wait for that!" Preston said. "But I want more people to be saved, so I guess I'll have to be patient like Jesus."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you believe Jesus is coming to earth again? Does it seem strange that people have been talking about His return for two thousand years? Jesus is patient. He wants to give everyone the opportunity to be saved, but the time will come when He will return as He promised. Trust in Him now so you'll be ready for that day.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord is not being slow in doing what he promised… God is being patient with you. He doesn't want anyone to be lost. (ERV)
(2 Peter 3:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is coming to earth again
Bible Reading: Proverbs 16:24; 18:21; Ephesians 4:29
Kerri and her family sat at the dining room table, playing their favorite word game. It was Kerri's turn to make a word out of the letters she had on her board. She examined her letters carefully, determined to win. Her family was very competitive.
Kerri grinned as she spelled out the word quotient with her letters.
"Way to go, sis," Kerri's brother Austin said.
"That was a good group of letters, but I think I can beat that," Dad said as he spelled the word zoological with his letters.
The game continued on for nearly an hour until Kerri's mom finally won with the word flamboyant.
"Great game!" Dad said as he gave everyone a high-five. "Now let's go into the living room for our devotions."
Kerri and Austin sat on the floor. Snowflake, their white kitten, curled up on Kerri's lap, and Kerri quietly stroked her fur.
"Our devotion tonight just happens to be on words and how we speak to others," Dad said. He opened his Bible and began to read. "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." He looked at Kerri and Austin. "Tell me--how did Mom win the word game we played tonight?"
"She used the letters she got to build words, and her letters and words scored the most points," Austin replied.
"Did she do that all by herself?" Dad asked.
Kerri shook her head. "We all built words off letters that were already on the board, so the letters and words we put down helped her build her own words to win the game."
"Right," said Dad. "That's similar to what this verse is telling us to do in our lives. Our words should build others up so that everyone benefits from them. They should reflect the love of Jesus, who was willing to sacrifice Himself for our benefit." He smiled at the kids. "Both of you used words in a way that benefited others tonight--not just the words you put on the board, but the ones that came out of your mouths too."
Mom nodded. "I'm proud of the way you both played tonight--competitively but with kind words."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Do the words you say build others up? Are they beneficial and encouraging for those who hear them? Or are they often said out of anger with the intent to hurt someone? As Christians, it's important for the words we say to reflect the love of Jesus. Let your words build others up by conveying the patience, kindness, and forgiveness He shows us.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (NIV)
(Ephesians 4:29)
Today's Key Thought:
Build others up with your words
Bible Reading: Proverbs 16:24; 18:21; Ephesians 4:29
Kerri and her family sat at the dining room table, playing their favorite word game. It was Kerri's turn to make a word out of the letters she had on her board. She examined her letters carefully, determined to win. Her family was very competitive.
Kerri grinned as she spelled out the word quotient with her letters.
"Way to go, sis," Kerri's brother Austin said.
"That was a good group of letters, but I think I can beat that," Dad said as he spelled the word zoological with his letters.
The game continued on for nearly an hour until Kerri's mom finally won with the word flamboyant.
"Great game!" Dad said as he gave everyone a high-five. "Now let's go into the living room for our devotions."
Kerri and Austin sat on the floor. Snowflake, their white kitten, curled up on Kerri's lap, and Kerri quietly stroked her fur.
"Our devotion tonight just happens to be on words and how we speak to others," Dad said. He opened his Bible and began to read. "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen." He looked at Kerri and Austin. "Tell me--how did Mom win the word game we played tonight?"
"She used the letters she got to build words, and her letters and words scored the most points," Austin replied.
"Did she do that all by herself?" Dad asked.
Kerri shook her head. "We all built words off letters that were already on the board, so the letters and words we put down helped her build her own words to win the game."
"Right," said Dad. "That's similar to what this verse is telling us to do in our lives. Our words should build others up so that everyone benefits from them. They should reflect the love of Jesus, who was willing to sacrifice Himself for our benefit." He smiled at the kids. "Both of you used words in a way that benefited others tonight--not just the words you put on the board, but the ones that came out of your mouths too."
Mom nodded. "I'm proud of the way you both played tonight--competitively but with kind words."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Do the words you say build others up? Are they beneficial and encouraging for those who hear them? Or are they often said out of anger with the intent to hurt someone? As Christians, it's important for the words we say to reflect the love of Jesus. Let your words build others up by conveying the patience, kindness, and forgiveness He shows us.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. (NIV)
(Ephesians 4:29)
Today's Key Thought:
Build others up with your words
Bible Reading: Romans 12:9-11; Philippians 2:3-5
Sebastian and his friend Carter looked around the playground on their first day in second grade. Carter pointed out two empty swings. "Hey! Let's go swing!"
The boys ran toward the swings, and as they got closer, Sebastian saw that one swing was higher than the other. I want the high one, he thought. It'll go a lot higher than the low one. So he ran as fast as he could and grabbed the higher swing.
As the boys pumped themselves higher and higher into the air, Sebastian looked at Carter and frowned. He's going higher than I am, he thought, so he pumped harder. But no matter how hard Sebastian worked, he could see that Carter was getting a better swing ride than he was.
At dinner that evening, Sebastian told his family about his first day at school and the swing ride. "I thought the high swing would go higher than the lower one," he said. "Why didn't it?"
"Well, the lower swing has longer chains, so it can swing out farther," Dad explained. "I don't think it actually gives you a higher ride, but it does give you a longer one." He smiled. "It didn't pay to pick the one you thought was the best, did it?" Sebastian shook his head.
"That reminds me of a verse from the Bible," Mom said. "It says that when we humble ourselves, the Lord will lift us up. That's better than being lifted by the swings you and Carter used today."
"How do we humble ourselves?" asked Sebastian.
"By putting Jesus and other people ahead of our own desires," Mom explained. "Most people think they'll be happy with the first, the best, the biggest, or the most things in life. But the Bible doesn't teach that. It says true satisfaction comes only from Jesus."
"Right," said Dad. "And Jesus humbled Himself when He put us first by coming to earth and dying on the cross for us. When we follow His example and put Him and others first, God honors that and blesses us for it."
"So to humble myself when Carter and I swing, I need to take the low sw--" Sebastian stopped and shook his head. "No. I need to let him have the low one because it works best and gives a better ride."
-Sara L. Nelson
How About You?
Do you put others ahead of yourself? Or do you always grab the biggest cookie, race to be first in line, and insist on playing the game you prefer? That's not how Jesus acted. He is God, yet He humbled Himself by becoming human and dying for our sins. Be humble like Him. God will lift you up by blessing your life as you put Him and others ahead of yourself.
Today's Key Verse:
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. (NKJV) (James 4:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Put others ahead of yourself
Bible Reading: Romans 12:9-11; Philippians 2:3-5
Sebastian and his friend Carter looked around the playground on their first day in second grade. Carter pointed out two empty swings. "Hey! Let's go swing!"
The boys ran toward the swings, and as they got closer, Sebastian saw that one swing was higher than the other. I want the high one, he thought. It'll go a lot higher than the low one. So he ran as fast as he could and grabbed the higher swing.
As the boys pumped themselves higher and higher into the air, Sebastian looked at Carter and frowned. He's going higher than I am, he thought, so he pumped harder. But no matter how hard Sebastian worked, he could see that Carter was getting a better swing ride than he was.
At dinner that evening, Sebastian told his family about his first day at school and the swing ride. "I thought the high swing would go higher than the lower one," he said. "Why didn't it?"
"Well, the lower swing has longer chains, so it can swing out farther," Dad explained. "I don't think it actually gives you a higher ride, but it does give you a longer one." He smiled. "It didn't pay to pick the one you thought was the best, did it?" Sebastian shook his head.
"That reminds me of a verse from the Bible," Mom said. "It says that when we humble ourselves, the Lord will lift us up. That's better than being lifted by the swings you and Carter used today."
"How do we humble ourselves?" asked Sebastian.
"By putting Jesus and other people ahead of our own desires," Mom explained. "Most people think they'll be happy with the first, the best, the biggest, or the most things in life. But the Bible doesn't teach that. It says true satisfaction comes only from Jesus."
"Right," said Dad. "And Jesus humbled Himself when He put us first by coming to earth and dying on the cross for us. When we follow His example and put Him and others first, God honors that and blesses us for it."
"So to humble myself when Carter and I swing, I need to take the low sw--" Sebastian stopped and shook his head. "No. I need to let him have the low one because it works best and gives a better ride."
-Sara L. Nelson
How About You?
Do you put others ahead of yourself? Or do you always grab the biggest cookie, race to be first in line, and insist on playing the game you prefer? That's not how Jesus acted. He is God, yet He humbled Himself by becoming human and dying for our sins. Be humble like Him. God will lift you up by blessing your life as you put Him and others ahead of yourself.
Today's Key Verse:
Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He will lift you up. (NKJV) (James 4:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Put others ahead of yourself
Bible Reading: James 3:3-10
Meg watched in horror as fire swept through the wheat field. "We've lost the crop, haven't we, Mom?" she asked in a shaky voice.
Mom nodded. "I'm afraid so. The firefighters believe the fire started in a vacant field. They think some kids were playing with matches. One little match used carelessly can certainly cause a lot of damage."
"I'm just thankful we were able to keep the fire from spreading any more than it did--to other fields or to the buildings," Dad said.
Meg clenched her fists. "I hope the police find out who started it and punish them."
That evening, as Meg's family discussed the events of the day, her phone rang. It was her friend Hadley, and after Meg told her about the fire, the girls talked about a new girl in their class at school.
When Meg hung up, Mom looked at her thoughtfully. "The fire this afternoon was pretty destructive," said Mom, "but I'm afraid you may have started--or added to--a fire that could become even worse."
"What?" Meg was shocked. "What fire?"
"I heard you tell Hadley that a new girl at school cheated on a test," Mom replied.
"Well, she must have cheated to get such a good grade on our history test," Meg said. "Other kids said so too."
"You said very unkind things about a girl you don't even know. And you're not at all sure she cheated, are you?"
"Well, no," Meg said. "I guess not."
Mom nodded. "The book of James says our tongues are like a fire, Meg. Rumors spread quickly and can ruin reputations. Think of the damage your careless words can do. That's not how we show Jesus's love to others. He loves us so much He was willing to suffer the shame of death on a cross so we could be saved. Do you think He would spread rumors about people He died for?"
As Meg looked out the window at the charred wheat field, she remembered her anger over someone's careless actions. Their thoughtlessness caused a lot of damage and hurt my family, she thought. I don't want to do the same thing with my words.
"You're right, Mom," Meg said. "I need to call Hadley back and put this fire out."
-Brenda Decker
How About You?
Is your tongue like a fire? Are you aware of how much damage it can do when you use it carelessly? When you say unkind things or spread gossip and rumors, your words hurt other people. That's not how God wants us to use our words as His children. Instead, trust Him to help you speak in a way that shows others the love of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Let the words of my mouth…be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord. (NKJV) (Psalm 19:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't spread rumors
Bible Reading: James 3:3-10
Meg watched in horror as fire swept through the wheat field. "We've lost the crop, haven't we, Mom?" she asked in a shaky voice.
Mom nodded. "I'm afraid so. The firefighters believe the fire started in a vacant field. They think some kids were playing with matches. One little match used carelessly can certainly cause a lot of damage."
"I'm just thankful we were able to keep the fire from spreading any more than it did--to other fields or to the buildings," Dad said.
Meg clenched her fists. "I hope the police find out who started it and punish them."
That evening, as Meg's family discussed the events of the day, her phone rang. It was her friend Hadley, and after Meg told her about the fire, the girls talked about a new girl in their class at school.
When Meg hung up, Mom looked at her thoughtfully. "The fire this afternoon was pretty destructive," said Mom, "but I'm afraid you may have started--or added to--a fire that could become even worse."
"What?" Meg was shocked. "What fire?"
"I heard you tell Hadley that a new girl at school cheated on a test," Mom replied.
"Well, she must have cheated to get such a good grade on our history test," Meg said. "Other kids said so too."
"You said very unkind things about a girl you don't even know. And you're not at all sure she cheated, are you?"
"Well, no," Meg said. "I guess not."
Mom nodded. "The book of James says our tongues are like a fire, Meg. Rumors spread quickly and can ruin reputations. Think of the damage your careless words can do. That's not how we show Jesus's love to others. He loves us so much He was willing to suffer the shame of death on a cross so we could be saved. Do you think He would spread rumors about people He died for?"
As Meg looked out the window at the charred wheat field, she remembered her anger over someone's careless actions. Their thoughtlessness caused a lot of damage and hurt my family, she thought. I don't want to do the same thing with my words.
"You're right, Mom," Meg said. "I need to call Hadley back and put this fire out."
-Brenda Decker
How About You?
Is your tongue like a fire? Are you aware of how much damage it can do when you use it carelessly? When you say unkind things or spread gossip and rumors, your words hurt other people. That's not how God wants us to use our words as His children. Instead, trust Him to help you speak in a way that shows others the love of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Let the words of my mouth…be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord. (NKJV) (Psalm 19:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't spread rumors
Bible Reading: John 13:33-35
"Okay, the last thing we need is a head of cabbage for dinner," Aiden's mom said.
Aiden walked over to the side of the produce section. "Hey, Mom, they have purple cabbage. Can we try it?" Mom nodded, so Aiden picked out a head of purple cabbage and added it to the cart.
As they waited in line to check out, Aiden smiled at a baby sitting in the seat of the cart in front of them, kicking his feet. The baby's mom was busy putting her groceries on the conveyor belt and didn't notice when the baby kicked his shoe off. Aiden picked up the discarded shoe. "Excuse me--your baby dropped this," he said, giving her the shoe.
"Oh! Thank you so much," the mom replied. "This is his only good pair of shoes!"
At home later that evening, Aiden watched as his mom spooned cooked purple cabbage into a bowl. "Mom, look! That cabbage turned the water you boiled it in purple."
"You're right--and it's even turning the bottom of the bowl purple," Mom said as she placed the bowl of cabbage on the table.
"That's kind of cool," Aiden said as he sat down. "The purple cabbage really leaves its mark. It shares its color with everything it comes in contact with."
Mom nodded. "Speaking of which, I'm very proud of the mark you left at the grocery store today when you picked up that baby's shoe and gave it to his mother."
Aiden looked confused. "How could that leave a mark? I barely did anything!"
"As Christians, we're called to leave our mark on others," said Mom. "Just like purple cabbage is known for its deep purple color, Christians are supposed to be known for their love. Our job is to display the love of Jesus to everyone we come in contact with--even in the smallest ways. You did that today by helping someone, even if it didn't seem like much." She smiled at Aiden. "It's your turn to ask the blessing tonight."
Aiden bowed his head. "Dear Jesus, thank You for this food and the purple cabbage we get to try tonight. Please help us leave Your mark of love on those around us. Amen."
-Melissa Yeagle
How About You?
What kind of mark do you leave on others? Do your actions toward others reflect God's love? Even the smallest kindness can leave a mark and show someone the love of Jesus. He showed us His love by dying for our sins, and as His children, we're called to show love to others. You can do that by helping and caring for those around you--even in small ways. How can you leave a mark of love today?
Today's Key Verse:
By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. (NKJV)
(John 13:35)
Today's Key Thought:
Display God's love to others
Bible Reading: John 13:33-35
"Okay, the last thing we need is a head of cabbage for dinner," Aiden's mom said.
Aiden walked over to the side of the produce section. "Hey, Mom, they have purple cabbage. Can we try it?" Mom nodded, so Aiden picked out a head of purple cabbage and added it to the cart.
As they waited in line to check out, Aiden smiled at a baby sitting in the seat of the cart in front of them, kicking his feet. The baby's mom was busy putting her groceries on the conveyor belt and didn't notice when the baby kicked his shoe off. Aiden picked up the discarded shoe. "Excuse me--your baby dropped this," he said, giving her the shoe.
"Oh! Thank you so much," the mom replied. "This is his only good pair of shoes!"
At home later that evening, Aiden watched as his mom spooned cooked purple cabbage into a bowl. "Mom, look! That cabbage turned the water you boiled it in purple."
"You're right--and it's even turning the bottom of the bowl purple," Mom said as she placed the bowl of cabbage on the table.
"That's kind of cool," Aiden said as he sat down. "The purple cabbage really leaves its mark. It shares its color with everything it comes in contact with."
Mom nodded. "Speaking of which, I'm very proud of the mark you left at the grocery store today when you picked up that baby's shoe and gave it to his mother."
Aiden looked confused. "How could that leave a mark? I barely did anything!"
"As Christians, we're called to leave our mark on others," said Mom. "Just like purple cabbage is known for its deep purple color, Christians are supposed to be known for their love. Our job is to display the love of Jesus to everyone we come in contact with--even in the smallest ways. You did that today by helping someone, even if it didn't seem like much." She smiled at Aiden. "It's your turn to ask the blessing tonight."
Aiden bowed his head. "Dear Jesus, thank You for this food and the purple cabbage we get to try tonight. Please help us leave Your mark of love on those around us. Amen."
-Melissa Yeagle
How About You?
What kind of mark do you leave on others? Do your actions toward others reflect God's love? Even the smallest kindness can leave a mark and show someone the love of Jesus. He showed us His love by dying for our sins, and as His children, we're called to show love to others. You can do that by helping and caring for those around you--even in small ways. How can you leave a mark of love today?
Today's Key Verse:
By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another. (NKJV)
(John 13:35)
Today's Key Thought:
Display God's love to others
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:18-21
"Mom, guess what happened?" said Adriel as he rushed into the house after school. "Jasper and Weston think it's funny, but my teacher is so upset!"
"Why?" asked Mom. "What happened?"
Adriel reached for an apple. "Mrs. Cook's laptop died. It was working fine this morning, but then she left the room for a few minutes while we were outside for recess, and when she came back, it wouldn't turn on." Adriel took a bite of his apple. "I wonder if Jasper and Weston had something to do with it, though I don't know how they could have pulled it off."
"Why would Jasper and Weston want Mrs. Cook's computer to break down?" asked Mom.
"Because all our grades were saved on it!" said Adriel. "And now our grades might be lost. Jasper and Weston think it's funny that if Mrs. Cook's computer can't be fixed, they won't get report cards showing their bad grades."
"I think Mrs. Cook will manage to come up with grades one way or another," said Mom.
"Well, I hope she remembers I got an A on my last history test," Adriel said. "I worked really hard to get that A!"
"I know you did," said Mom. "But I can see how kids who didn't do well would like to have their grades canceled or forgotten." She gave Adriel a thoughtful look. "In fact, I know exactly what that feels like, and I think you do too!"
"Me?" asked Adriel. "I know I'm not a straight-A student, but I've always done pretty well in school."
"Yes, but none of us has lived a perfect life, have we?" said Mom. "The Bible says we're sinners because of the wrong things we've done. We've all failed to live up to God's perfect standard. But guess what? Even though we deserve a failing grade, Jesus lived a perfect life and then died on the cross to take the punishment we deserve so our sin could be canceled! When we trust in Him, He credits us with His goodness so we can enjoy the reward of eternal life with Him."
"Wow," said Adriel. "I didn't think of that. I'm so glad Jesus canceled my sin and gave me the good grade He earned instead!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
How would you feel if you could have a bad grade replaced with a good grade? The Bible says you can! We're all sinners who have failed to live the way we should, but Jesus died so our sin could be replaced with His goodness. You can't earn a passing grade in the eyes of God on your own--you need Jesus's perfect score. Trust in Him today, and your sin will be canceled. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. (NLT)
(2 Corinthians 5:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus cancels sin
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:18-21
"Mom, guess what happened?" said Adriel as he rushed into the house after school. "Jasper and Weston think it's funny, but my teacher is so upset!"
"Why?" asked Mom. "What happened?"
Adriel reached for an apple. "Mrs. Cook's laptop died. It was working fine this morning, but then she left the room for a few minutes while we were outside for recess, and when she came back, it wouldn't turn on." Adriel took a bite of his apple. "I wonder if Jasper and Weston had something to do with it, though I don't know how they could have pulled it off."
"Why would Jasper and Weston want Mrs. Cook's computer to break down?" asked Mom.
"Because all our grades were saved on it!" said Adriel. "And now our grades might be lost. Jasper and Weston think it's funny that if Mrs. Cook's computer can't be fixed, they won't get report cards showing their bad grades."
"I think Mrs. Cook will manage to come up with grades one way or another," said Mom.
"Well, I hope she remembers I got an A on my last history test," Adriel said. "I worked really hard to get that A!"
"I know you did," said Mom. "But I can see how kids who didn't do well would like to have their grades canceled or forgotten." She gave Adriel a thoughtful look. "In fact, I know exactly what that feels like, and I think you do too!"
"Me?" asked Adriel. "I know I'm not a straight-A student, but I've always done pretty well in school."
"Yes, but none of us has lived a perfect life, have we?" said Mom. "The Bible says we're sinners because of the wrong things we've done. We've all failed to live up to God's perfect standard. But guess what? Even though we deserve a failing grade, Jesus lived a perfect life and then died on the cross to take the punishment we deserve so our sin could be canceled! When we trust in Him, He credits us with His goodness so we can enjoy the reward of eternal life with Him."
"Wow," said Adriel. "I didn't think of that. I'm so glad Jesus canceled my sin and gave me the good grade He earned instead!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
How would you feel if you could have a bad grade replaced with a good grade? The Bible says you can! We're all sinners who have failed to live the way we should, but Jesus died so our sin could be replaced with His goodness. You can't earn a passing grade in the eyes of God on your own--you need Jesus's perfect score. Trust in Him today, and your sin will be canceled. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. (NLT)
(2 Corinthians 5:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus cancels sin
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:7; Matthew 1:21
The sun was warm while the water was sparkling cold. It was the perfect afternoon at the community pool, and Isabella had her two best friends on either side of her.
Simultaneously, they cannonballed into the water. They came up from beneath the water gasping for air and giggling, their heads bobbing in the waves.
"Let's pretend we're in the ocean!" Payton said.
"Yeah! And our ship was destroyed in a storm," said Bryce. "Look! Let's swim over to that floaty as our raft."
Everyone enthusiastically agreed and began fake-crying, saying things like, "Oh no! We're stranded!" as they swam to the "raft."
Once everyone was on board, Captain Isabella spoke to the crew. "Now, we must all yell for help as loud as we possibly can!"
"Aye, aye, Captain!" shouted Payton and Bryce.
Isabella counted down. "Three, two, one--"
"HELP!" they all yelled. "Help! Help! Help!"
Suddenly, in a flash of red, a lifeguard lifted all three kids up onto the side of the pool before they knew what was happening. "What's wrong?" the lifeguard asked.
Dripping, Isabella explained. "I'm sorry if we scared you. We were just playing. We didn't mean it!"
"Ah," the lifeguard said. "You know, kids, some words are more powerful than others. Help is a word we only use when we're actually in danger. There could've been someone who needed rescue while I was busy with you. That's a scary thought." She sat back on her heels. "From now on, do you three promise to be careful with the word help?"
The kids nodded solemnly, and the lifeguard directed them back to the pool.
As they got back in the water, Isabella spoke. "This reminds me of what my abuela said about using God's name. She called it holy, which means it's very special. She said it's only to be used for things like giving God praise, talking to Him, or talking to others about Jesus and how He died to save us."
"You're right," said Payton. "Help is a special word, and God's name is the most special word of all."
-Danielle J. Brown
How About You?
Did you know that God's name is a special word? We are saved from our sins when we call on the name of Jesus. It's important that we use His name with care. As Christians, we have a special relationship with God that allows us to praise Him, talk with Him, and share the good news of His saving love with others. He is our King, so we must respect the power of the holy Name through which we're saved.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (NKJV)
(Romans 10:13)
Today's Key Thought:
God's name is special
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:7; Matthew 1:21
The sun was warm while the water was sparkling cold. It was the perfect afternoon at the community pool, and Isabella had her two best friends on either side of her.
Simultaneously, they cannonballed into the water. They came up from beneath the water gasping for air and giggling, their heads bobbing in the waves.
"Let's pretend we're in the ocean!" Payton said.
"Yeah! And our ship was destroyed in a storm," said Bryce. "Look! Let's swim over to that floaty as our raft."
Everyone enthusiastically agreed and began fake-crying, saying things like, "Oh no! We're stranded!" as they swam to the "raft."
Once everyone was on board, Captain Isabella spoke to the crew. "Now, we must all yell for help as loud as we possibly can!"
"Aye, aye, Captain!" shouted Payton and Bryce.
Isabella counted down. "Three, two, one--"
"HELP!" they all yelled. "Help! Help! Help!"
Suddenly, in a flash of red, a lifeguard lifted all three kids up onto the side of the pool before they knew what was happening. "What's wrong?" the lifeguard asked.
Dripping, Isabella explained. "I'm sorry if we scared you. We were just playing. We didn't mean it!"
"Ah," the lifeguard said. "You know, kids, some words are more powerful than others. Help is a word we only use when we're actually in danger. There could've been someone who needed rescue while I was busy with you. That's a scary thought." She sat back on her heels. "From now on, do you three promise to be careful with the word help?"
The kids nodded solemnly, and the lifeguard directed them back to the pool.
As they got back in the water, Isabella spoke. "This reminds me of what my abuela said about using God's name. She called it holy, which means it's very special. She said it's only to be used for things like giving God praise, talking to Him, or talking to others about Jesus and how He died to save us."
"You're right," said Payton. "Help is a special word, and God's name is the most special word of all."
-Danielle J. Brown
How About You?
Did you know that God's name is a special word? We are saved from our sins when we call on the name of Jesus. It's important that we use His name with care. As Christians, we have a special relationship with God that allows us to praise Him, talk with Him, and share the good news of His saving love with others. He is our King, so we must respect the power of the holy Name through which we're saved.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (NKJV)
(Romans 10:13)
Today's Key Thought:
God's name is special
Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-7; Zephaniah 3:17
"What's wrong, sis?" Hudson asked his little sister, Clara, as she stumbled in the front door.
Clara plopped down on the couch beside her brother. Leaning against him, Clara began to cry.
"Tell me what's going on," Hudson said as he put down his chemistry books and wrapped his arms around Clara.
She tried to catch her breath. "On the way home from the bus stop, I was walking with Nicole. We were almost to our street, but then this boy I don't know yelled at me."
"What did he say?" Hudson asked.
"He screamed out, 'Hey--girl in the blue sweater. You're ugly!'" Clara buried her face in Hudson's chest as tears began leaking from her eyes.
"Oh, Clara," Hudson said. "I'm so sorry that happened. That boy was wrong."
After Clara had let her tears out, Hudson stood up. Then he walked Clara toward the mirror that hung on the living room wall. Pointing, Hudson asked, "See that?"
Clara shrugged.
"That girl looking back at you is a child of God," Hudson said. "You know that, right?"
Clara nodded.
"You've put your trust in Jesus to be your Savior and pay for your sins, right?" Hudson asked. "Well, that means you are a child of God!"
Hudson sounded so enthusiastic Clara couldn't help but smile.
"Wait! There's more!" Hudson grinned. "God created you in His image and then brought you into His kingdom when you put your faith in His Son. And you know what? People may focus on outside things, like clothes or fancy houses or jobs that seem big and important, but Jesus--who made our bodies and promises to raise everyone who knows Him from the dead someday--sees all of us, including our hearts. And you know what that means, right?"
"What?" Clara asked.
"It means Jesus looks at you and likes what He sees. He loves how He created your body, and when He looks at your heart, He rejoices that you know Him as your Savior."
Clara wiped the tears from her cheeks and then smiled at her reflection in the mirror. The boy's mean words still stung, but they seemed less important when Clara imagined God smiling over her.
-Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Did you know God created you and loves what He made? He loves us so much He came to earth to live among us, die, and rise again so that all who put their trust in Him will one day rise again too--free from sin and brokenness. God sees all of you, from your body to the deepest thoughts of your heart. Even when people say mean things to you, Jesus's love for you never fails.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks
at the heart. (NIV)
(1 Samuel 16:7)
Today's Key Thought:
God sees all of you
Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 16:1-7; Zephaniah 3:17
"What's wrong, sis?" Hudson asked his little sister, Clara, as she stumbled in the front door.
Clara plopped down on the couch beside her brother. Leaning against him, Clara began to cry.
"Tell me what's going on," Hudson said as he put down his chemistry books and wrapped his arms around Clara.
She tried to catch her breath. "On the way home from the bus stop, I was walking with Nicole. We were almost to our street, but then this boy I don't know yelled at me."
"What did he say?" Hudson asked.
"He screamed out, 'Hey--girl in the blue sweater. You're ugly!'" Clara buried her face in Hudson's chest as tears began leaking from her eyes.
"Oh, Clara," Hudson said. "I'm so sorry that happened. That boy was wrong."
After Clara had let her tears out, Hudson stood up. Then he walked Clara toward the mirror that hung on the living room wall. Pointing, Hudson asked, "See that?"
Clara shrugged.
"That girl looking back at you is a child of God," Hudson said. "You know that, right?"
Clara nodded.
"You've put your trust in Jesus to be your Savior and pay for your sins, right?" Hudson asked. "Well, that means you are a child of God!"
Hudson sounded so enthusiastic Clara couldn't help but smile.
"Wait! There's more!" Hudson grinned. "God created you in His image and then brought you into His kingdom when you put your faith in His Son. And you know what? People may focus on outside things, like clothes or fancy houses or jobs that seem big and important, but Jesus--who made our bodies and promises to raise everyone who knows Him from the dead someday--sees all of us, including our hearts. And you know what that means, right?"
"What?" Clara asked.
"It means Jesus looks at you and likes what He sees. He loves how He created your body, and when He looks at your heart, He rejoices that you know Him as your Savior."
Clara wiped the tears from her cheeks and then smiled at her reflection in the mirror. The boy's mean words still stung, but they seemed less important when Clara imagined God smiling over her.
-Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Did you know God created you and loves what He made? He loves us so much He came to earth to live among us, die, and rise again so that all who put their trust in Him will one day rise again too--free from sin and brokenness. God sees all of you, from your body to the deepest thoughts of your heart. Even when people say mean things to you, Jesus's love for you never fails.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks
at the heart. (NIV)
(1 Samuel 16:7)
Today's Key Thought:
God sees all of you
Bible Reading: Psalm 19:7-11
The mining cars rattled along the tracks as Parker and his family peered ahead into the dimly lit interior of the old mining shaft. "Do you think we could still find gold down here?" Parker asked excitedly.
The tour guide chuckled. "Got a little gold fever?" he asked.
"Gold fever?" asked Parker's sister Alexa with a puzzled expression. "What's that? Do you get sick when you mine for gold?"
"No," the guide answered. "Gold fever is a term that was used years ago to describe people so eager to find gold that they devoted their entire lives to the search. Those who found a vein of gold became wealthy. When that happened, it often seemed like gold fever was a contagious disease. Others caught it and wanted to become rich too."
"Cool!" Parker exclaimed. "I wish I could find gold."
Alexa grinned. "Sounds like you do have gold fever," she teased.
Dad laughed. "I don't think Parker would really like mining. These mine shafts were cramped and uncomfortable and often dangerous. Miners had to be persistent and tough. They needed to have a passion to find gold."
When the tour was done, they came up into the sunshine again. "That was awesome!" said Parker. "Mining would be hard work, but if I found gold, it would be worth it."
"Yeah! You'd be rich!" said Alexa.
After dinner that evening, Dad reached for his Bible. "It's time to do some mining!" he announced with a smile. "Who would like to be rich?"
"Me!" Parker raised his hand. "But how would we do mining?"
"Studying the Bible is something like mining for gold," said Dad. "Searching for the truth and wisdom in God's Word requires persistence and patience. It can be hard work, but the results are well worth the effort."
Alexa laughed. "You can be a miner after all, Parker."
"You both can," said Dad. "And unlike gold, the Bible's riches are eternal. It tells us the truth of Jesus and what He did to save us, and it offers us wisdom and encouragement in our walk through life with Him. If you devote your life to finding God's riches, your reward will be much greater than any gold you could ever find."
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Have you done any mining for heavenly gold? No earthly riches can compare with the treasure God offers you in His Word. It tells how you can have eternal life with Jesus, who died to save you from sin. It's filled with truth, wisdom, and promises. As you take its words to heart, it will help you look to Jesus for joy, peace, and contentment. When you mine the Bible's treasure, the rewards last forever.
Today's Key Verse:
The Word of the Lord is worth more than gold, even more than much fine gold. (NLV)
(Psalm 19:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Mine God's gold--the Bible
Bible Reading: Psalm 19:7-11
The mining cars rattled along the tracks as Parker and his family peered ahead into the dimly lit interior of the old mining shaft. "Do you think we could still find gold down here?" Parker asked excitedly.
The tour guide chuckled. "Got a little gold fever?" he asked.
"Gold fever?" asked Parker's sister Alexa with a puzzled expression. "What's that? Do you get sick when you mine for gold?"
"No," the guide answered. "Gold fever is a term that was used years ago to describe people so eager to find gold that they devoted their entire lives to the search. Those who found a vein of gold became wealthy. When that happened, it often seemed like gold fever was a contagious disease. Others caught it and wanted to become rich too."
"Cool!" Parker exclaimed. "I wish I could find gold."
Alexa grinned. "Sounds like you do have gold fever," she teased.
Dad laughed. "I don't think Parker would really like mining. These mine shafts were cramped and uncomfortable and often dangerous. Miners had to be persistent and tough. They needed to have a passion to find gold."
When the tour was done, they came up into the sunshine again. "That was awesome!" said Parker. "Mining would be hard work, but if I found gold, it would be worth it."
"Yeah! You'd be rich!" said Alexa.
After dinner that evening, Dad reached for his Bible. "It's time to do some mining!" he announced with a smile. "Who would like to be rich?"
"Me!" Parker raised his hand. "But how would we do mining?"
"Studying the Bible is something like mining for gold," said Dad. "Searching for the truth and wisdom in God's Word requires persistence and patience. It can be hard work, but the results are well worth the effort."
Alexa laughed. "You can be a miner after all, Parker."
"You both can," said Dad. "And unlike gold, the Bible's riches are eternal. It tells us the truth of Jesus and what He did to save us, and it offers us wisdom and encouragement in our walk through life with Him. If you devote your life to finding God's riches, your reward will be much greater than any gold you could ever find."
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Have you done any mining for heavenly gold? No earthly riches can compare with the treasure God offers you in His Word. It tells how you can have eternal life with Jesus, who died to save you from sin. It's filled with truth, wisdom, and promises. As you take its words to heart, it will help you look to Jesus for joy, peace, and contentment. When you mine the Bible's treasure, the rewards last forever.
Today's Key Verse:
The Word of the Lord is worth more than gold, even more than much fine gold. (NLV)
(Psalm 19:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Mine God's gold--the Bible
Bible Reading: Psalm 121:1-4
Rose excitedly walked her first two-wheeler bicycle from the store to the car. "We'll put the training wheels on when we get home," Dad said as he loaded it into the back of the van. "I'll help you learn to ride it too."
"I don't need training wheels! I can ride my bike all by myself," said Rose. "I'll name it Candy Apple because it's red." She grinned. "Since I can't have a horse, I'll pretend my bike is one," she declared, picturing herself zooming around the block.
As soon as they got home, Dad unloaded the bike before going into the house. "I'll be right back," he said as Rose wheeled the new bike to the front sidewalk. Impatient, she didn't wait for Dad. She put one foot on a pedal and shoved off. She lifted her other foot, but she started to tip over and quickly put her feet back on the ground. She tried again, but the bike kept tipping over.
Just then Dad arrived and grabbed the tilting handlebars. "Looks like you could use a helping hand with this bucking bronco," he said. "Whoa, Candy Apple!"
"Daddy, I can't keep my balance. I guess I need training wheels after all."
"I think you're right," Dad said. "Let's take the bike to the garage and put them on."
After Dad attached the training wheels, Rose eagerly got on the bike again. She pedaled slowly at first, then faster and faster. "Look, Daddy!" she called. "I can ride!"
Later, Rose and her dad sat on the front steps and ate crisp apples. "Thanks for helping me with my bike," said Rose.
"You're welcome." Dad smiled at her. "You wanted to start riding all by yourself, but you found out you needed your father's help. You needed me to put the training wheels on for you. I'm sometimes like that too."
Rose looked surprised. "You need training wheels?"
"No." Dad grinned. "But sometimes I get busy trying to work out problems by myself and forget I need help from my heavenly Father. God loves us so much He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us. That means He cares about everything we go through." He motioned toward the bike. "Let Candy Apple remind you that your heavenly Father wants to help you with every problem too."
-Dean A. Fowler
How About You?
What problem are you trying to handle by yourself? Poor grades? Being picked on? Not getting along with family members? Ask your heavenly Father for help, and then trust Him to show you what to do. Perhaps you need to study harder, be kinder to others, or seek help from an adult. God loves you and cares about your problems. Depend on Him to help you.
Today's Key Verse:
My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth. (NKJV)
(Psalm 121:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Depend on your heavenly Father
Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:5-6
The Wong family had just come back from church. The two girls, Mei and Ping, were heartbroken. Pastor John was leaving their church.
"Why does Pastor John have to go?" asked Mei. "Doesn't he love us? How could he just leave us like that?"
"You should know the answer," replied Ping. "You were misbehaving during church last week. He must've gotten mad at you and decided to leave!"
"What? Are you blaming me?" asked Mei.
"Hold on," said Dad. "Pastor John has good reasons for leaving--and they have nothing to do with us. He has been praying about this decision for a long time."
Mom agreed. "I know it's hard on you girls since you've known Pastor John since you were young. But we can trust that God has great plans for him."
Later that year, the Wong family decided to pay Pastor John a visit. They even brought his favorite dessert--apple pie. Pastor John was delighted to see them.
"How have you been, Pastor John?" asked Dad.
"I'm doing very well! God has led me to serve Him in a new ministry," replied Pastor John. "You see, I used to be a troubled teen. I got into fights and drugs. It was only after I knew Jesus that my life turned around."
Pastor John turned to Mei and Ping. "Have you heard the saying, 'When God closes one door, He opens another'?"
The girls shook their heads.
"After I left the church, God gave me an opportunity to be a counselor and help at-risk youths at a rehab center," said Pastor John. "I'm able to empathize with them, and I've even been able to share my story with some of them. Jesus helped me know He loved me by sending caring people into my life when I was struggling, and now He's using me to help others."
"I think I get it," said Mei. "When you prayed and God led you to step away from the church, it was like God was closing a door?"
Ping jumped in. "And when you became a counselor, it was like God opened another door for you?"
"Exactly!" said Pastor John.
Mom smiled. "We are so happy for you, Pastor John," she said. "God has great plans for you!"
-Kelly Choy
How About You?
Have you ever experienced a difficult change that made you sad? Change can be hard, and it's okay to feel sad and express your feelings to God and to trusted adults. When we face challenging times, we can trust God. He is with us through it all, and He is working all things for His good purposes.
Today's Key Verse:
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (NIV) (Romans 8:28)
Today's Key Thought:
When God closes a door, He opens another
Bible Reading: Psalm 63:8; John 10:28-30
BAM! A little bird flew right into the Neilsons' window. Josiah was sitting at the table doing his schoolwork when it happened.
Josiah jumped up and looked out the window. The little bird was just sitting on the deck. Josiah crept outside, hoping not to scare it. He walked up to the little bird and knelt down. Gently, he picked it up.
The little bird let Josiah stroke its head and cradle it in his hands. It sat there for several minutes before it flew up onto the ledge. Josiah inched back inside and watched it from the window. Before long, the little bird flew away.
"Wow, that was so awesome!" Josiah said. He hurried to tell his mom about it.
"That little bird must have felt safe in your warm, cupped hands," Mom said. "I love your compassion for animals, Josiah. Next time something like that happens, let me know, and we'll figure out the best way to safely handle any creature who needs some love and care."
During dinner that evening, Josiah told his dad all about the little bird. "It just let me pick it up and hold it," Josiah said.
"After flying into the window, the little bird was probably stunned from the impact," said Dad. "It was probably hurting and afraid, but when you picked it up, it felt warm and secure."
After dinner, Josiah helped his mom and dad with the dishes. Then they all went into the living room for devotions.
"Your story of the little bird got me thinking," Dad said as he opened his Bible. "When we're afraid or get hurt, we feel much better when someone helps us and comforts us. And you know what, Josiah? The Bible tells us we are safe in God's hands. John 10 says that when our trust is in Jesus, no one can take us out of His hands. No matter what we face, His love for us is secure. We know that Jesus died and rose again to give us eternal life, and He promises to always be with us."
Mom nodded. "We can rest like the little bird because we are eternally safe in God's hands."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you trusted Jesus to be your Savior? It's wonderful to know that our heavenly Father loves us so much that He promises to hold all who put their trust in Jesus. In Him, we find true safety. If you haven't yet trusted in Jesus, do it today so you can feel safe and secure in God's hands. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. (NLT)
(John 3:16)
Today's Key Thought:
We are safe in God's hands
Bible Reading: Psalm 63:8; John 10:28-30
BAM! A little bird flew right into the Neilsons' window. Josiah was sitting at the table doing his schoolwork when it happened.
Josiah jumped up and looked out the window. The little bird was just sitting on the deck. Josiah crept outside, hoping not to scare it. He walked up to the little bird and knelt down. Gently, he picked it up.
The little bird let Josiah stroke its head and cradle it in his hands. It sat there for several minutes before it flew up onto the ledge. Josiah inched back inside and watched it from the window. Before long, the little bird flew away.
"Wow, that was so awesome!" Josiah said. He hurried to tell his mom about it.
"That little bird must have felt safe in your warm, cupped hands," Mom said. "I love your compassion for animals, Josiah. Next time something like that happens, let me know, and we'll figure out the best way to safely handle any creature who needs some love and care."
During dinner that evening, Josiah told his dad all about the little bird. "It just let me pick it up and hold it," Josiah said.
"After flying into the window, the little bird was probably stunned from the impact," said Dad. "It was probably hurting and afraid, but when you picked it up, it felt warm and secure."
After dinner, Josiah helped his mom and dad with the dishes. Then they all went into the living room for devotions.
"Your story of the little bird got me thinking," Dad said as he opened his Bible. "When we're afraid or get hurt, we feel much better when someone helps us and comforts us. And you know what, Josiah? The Bible tells us we are safe in God's hands. John 10 says that when our trust is in Jesus, no one can take us out of His hands. No matter what we face, His love for us is secure. We know that Jesus died and rose again to give us eternal life, and He promises to always be with us."
Mom nodded. "We can rest like the little bird because we are eternally safe in God's hands."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you trusted Jesus to be your Savior? It's wonderful to know that our heavenly Father loves us so much that He promises to hold all who put their trust in Jesus. In Him, we find true safety. If you haven't yet trusted in Jesus, do it today so you can feel safe and secure in God's hands. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
For this is how God loved the world: He gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. (NLT)
(John 3:16)
Today's Key Thought:
We are safe in God's hands
Bible Reading: Psalm 46:10; Luke 10:38-42
Toby, Macy's puppy, was always running into everything. He ran so fast and never paid attention to where he was going.
After Toby had run into the sliding glass door for the third time that day, Macy scooped him up in her arms. "Be careful where you're running," she said as she stroked Toby's fur. "You've got to slow down. You're going to hurt yourself!"
"Time for dinner!" Mom called.
Macy set Toby down gently and went into the kitchen.
"Is Toby doing better now?" Mom asked.
"Not really," said Macy with a sigh. "I wish he would slow down a little."
"He will," said Dad. "It's just because he's a puppy."
Just then, they heard Toby cough loudly. "Looks like he's going to have to learn not to gobble his food so quickly too," Mom said.
After dinner, Macy picked up Toby and carried him into the family room for devotions.
"Watching Toby tonight reminded me of a Bible story," Dad said. "One day, Jesus visited two of his friends, two sisters named Mary and Martha. Mary sat and listened to Jesus teach, but Martha got caught up in all the preparations for dinner, since making sure guests were happy and well fed was very important in Jesus's day. She was so busy running around making sure everything got done that she forgot to take time to sit with Jesus."
"That sounds like Toby, all right!" said Macy. "He's always running around like crazy."
"We're often like that too," said Dad. "We run around in all directions. It's easy to get caught up in the busyness of our everyday lives, but Jesus calls us to take time to rest--to slow down and spend time with Him in His Word and in prayer. We can rest because, through his death and resurrection, Jesus did the work that needed to be done so we could be saved and have eternal life. When we slow down and let Him remind us of that, we experience His love, strength, and peace."
Mom nodded. "Just like Toby needs to slow down so he won't hurt himself, we need to slow down so we can sit with Jesus and dwell on the precious promises in His Word."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Do you often find yourself running in all directions--too busy to rest and hear from God? In our busy world, it's easy to think we need to be working all the time. But Jesus shows us something different. Because He died on the cross, we don't have to hurry around trying to please God or other people. Instead, we can rest in His love for us and enjoy being with Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. (NLT) (James 4:8)
Today's Key Thought:
We are free to rest in Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 46:10; Luke 10:38-42
Toby, Macy's puppy, was always running into everything. He ran so fast and never paid attention to where he was going.
After Toby had run into the sliding glass door for the third time that day, Macy scooped him up in her arms. "Be careful where you're running," she said as she stroked Toby's fur. "You've got to slow down. You're going to hurt yourself!"
"Time for dinner!" Mom called.
Macy set Toby down gently and went into the kitchen.
"Is Toby doing better now?" Mom asked.
"Not really," said Macy with a sigh. "I wish he would slow down a little."
"He will," said Dad. "It's just because he's a puppy."
Just then, they heard Toby cough loudly. "Looks like he's going to have to learn not to gobble his food so quickly too," Mom said.
After dinner, Macy picked up Toby and carried him into the family room for devotions.
"Watching Toby tonight reminded me of a Bible story," Dad said. "One day, Jesus visited two of his friends, two sisters named Mary and Martha. Mary sat and listened to Jesus teach, but Martha got caught up in all the preparations for dinner, since making sure guests were happy and well fed was very important in Jesus's day. She was so busy running around making sure everything got done that she forgot to take time to sit with Jesus."
"That sounds like Toby, all right!" said Macy. "He's always running around like crazy."
"We're often like that too," said Dad. "We run around in all directions. It's easy to get caught up in the busyness of our everyday lives, but Jesus calls us to take time to rest--to slow down and spend time with Him in His Word and in prayer. We can rest because, through his death and resurrection, Jesus did the work that needed to be done so we could be saved and have eternal life. When we slow down and let Him remind us of that, we experience His love, strength, and peace."
Mom nodded. "Just like Toby needs to slow down so he won't hurt himself, we need to slow down so we can sit with Jesus and dwell on the precious promises in His Word."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Do you often find yourself running in all directions--too busy to rest and hear from God? In our busy world, it's easy to think we need to be working all the time. But Jesus shows us something different. Because He died on the cross, we don't have to hurry around trying to please God or other people. Instead, we can rest in His love for us and enjoy being with Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world. (NLT) (James 4:8)
Today's Key Thought:
We are free to rest in Jesus
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-34
Every afternoon, Molly and her mom would go for a walk on their farm. Molly loved picking the wildflowers that grew along the path as she and Mom talked about their day.
"Look at this pretty flower, Mom," Molly said one day as she picked a beautiful pink flower with an orange center.
"It's beautiful," Mom said.
By the time they finished their walk, Molly had a whole bouquet of wildflowers picked. When they got back to the house, Mom put the flowers in a vase and set it on the kitchen table for everyone to enjoy.
Later that night, Molly overheard her parents talking about their crops. From what Molly could understand, the crops weren't doing so well.
"I don't think we're going to make as much profit as we'd hoped for this season," Dad said.
"Well, we'll just have to budget accordingly," Mom replied.
As Mom tucked Molly into bed that night, she could tell Molly was worried. "What's bothering you?" Mom asked.
"Are we going to have enough money for everything we need?" Molly asked, almost crying.
Mom took Molly's Bible off the dresser. "Did you know that God provides flowers with what they need?" she asked. Molly shook her head, and Mom turned to the book of Matthew and began to read. "And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are." Mom closed the Bible. "You see, Molly, God doesn't want us to worry, because He already knows what we need. Jesus has provided us with forgiveness from sin and eternal life, and He promises to take care of us. That doesn't mean we'll get everything we want, but if God cares about those wildflowers you picked today, He most definitely cares about us and knows what we need. We just have to trust Him. Let's pray and turn all our worries over to Jesus so we can feel His peace."
The next afternoon, as Molly picked a bouquet of wildflowers, she danced along and sang, "God cares for the wildflowers, and God cares for me."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Do you often find yourself worrying? The Bible tells us to trust God to take care of all our needs. If He feeds the birds and clothes the flowers, think of how much He cares for you! Don't let yourself be overwhelmed with worries when difficult things happen. Instead, give your worries to Jesus, who gives you salvation and eternal life. Let Him take care of everything.
Today's Key Verse:
And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. (NLT)
(Philippians 4:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God to provide
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-34
Every afternoon, Molly and her mom would go for a walk on their farm. Molly loved picking the wildflowers that grew along the path as she and Mom talked about their day.
"Look at this pretty flower, Mom," Molly said one day as she picked a beautiful pink flower with an orange center.
"It's beautiful," Mom said.
By the time they finished their walk, Molly had a whole bouquet of wildflowers picked. When they got back to the house, Mom put the flowers in a vase and set it on the kitchen table for everyone to enjoy.
Later that night, Molly overheard her parents talking about their crops. From what Molly could understand, the crops weren't doing so well.
"I don't think we're going to make as much profit as we'd hoped for this season," Dad said.
"Well, we'll just have to budget accordingly," Mom replied.
As Mom tucked Molly into bed that night, she could tell Molly was worried. "What's bothering you?" Mom asked.
"Are we going to have enough money for everything we need?" Molly asked, almost crying.
Mom took Molly's Bible off the dresser. "Did you know that God provides flowers with what they need?" she asked. Molly shook her head, and Mom turned to the book of Matthew and began to read. "And why worry about your clothing? Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don't work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are." Mom closed the Bible. "You see, Molly, God doesn't want us to worry, because He already knows what we need. Jesus has provided us with forgiveness from sin and eternal life, and He promises to take care of us. That doesn't mean we'll get everything we want, but if God cares about those wildflowers you picked today, He most definitely cares about us and knows what we need. We just have to trust Him. Let's pray and turn all our worries over to Jesus so we can feel His peace."
The next afternoon, as Molly picked a bouquet of wildflowers, she danced along and sang, "God cares for the wildflowers, and God cares for me."
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Do you often find yourself worrying? The Bible tells us to trust God to take care of all our needs. If He feeds the birds and clothes the flowers, think of how much He cares for you! Don't let yourself be overwhelmed with worries when difficult things happen. Instead, give your worries to Jesus, who gives you salvation and eternal life. Let Him take care of everything.
Today's Key Verse:
And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus. (NLT)
(Philippians 4:19)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God to provide
Bible Reading: Mark 6:30-32
"Are we almost there?" Noelle asked. "I can't wait to go swimming!"
"There it is!" Cameron shouted as the car rounded a bend and the little cottage came into view. Dad parked by the front door, and Noelle and Cameron helped their parents unpack the car.
"I'm starving!" declared Cameron when they finished their work.
"Me too," said Noelle. "When are we going to eat, Mom?"
"Soon," Mom replied, getting out some sloppy joe meat, chips, and buns. She put the meat in a pan and turned on the burner. Then she plugged in the coffeepot. "How about macaroni and cheese with your sloppy joes?" she asked as she turned on another burner. Immediately, all the lights went off. "Oh no!" exclaimed Mom. "I must have blown a fuse."
Dad got up and went to find the fuse box. "Looks like there are too many things on one of the circuits," he said when he came back. "We'll have to turn off a few lights whenever we want to use the stove."
Soon their lunch was ready, and they sat down to enjoy it together. "This is fun," said Noelle. "It's our first real vacation in ages."
"I know," said Mom. "That overloaded fuse reminds me of our family lately. We've been so busy getting our business started and remodeling the house. Then with piano lessons, soccer practice, and homework, I think we've been overloaded too. We've been so busy that we haven't had much time to spend together."
Dad nodded. "Let's evaluate our activities during this vacation and ask God to show us if there are ones we should cut out of our schedules so we have more time to rest and enjoy each other." He reached into his backpack and pulled out a Bible. "We also need time to enjoy being with Jesus too. One way to do that is to spend time praying and reading His Word so He can remind us of His love for us and refresh our souls. Let's do that as a family right now."
"That's one thing we should always make time for," said Cameron. "That and soccer practice. But we could skip piano lessons," he added with a grin. "And homework."
Dad chuckled. "Sorry," he said. "I don't think that's gonna happen!"
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Have you been too busy lately? Are there too many activities packed into your schedule? Talk to Jesus about it, and ask Him to show you if some of them can be omitted. Don't allow your schedule to get overloaded. Jesus recognized the need for quiet time, and we need that too. Leave room in your schedule to spend time with Him so He can refresh your soul.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus] said to them, "Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest." (NIV)
(Mark 6:31)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't get too busy
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:8-11
Theo wanted to make the greatest Lego kingdom ever. After several days of building, his masterpiece stretched into almost every room. His eyelids were heavy, but he wasn't done.
"You'd better take a break," Dad said as they sat down for lunch on Sunday.
Theo held in a yawn. "No time. I have work to do."
At Sunday school that morning, Theo's teacher had talked about how God was always working in their lives. God didn't give up on Theo, even though Theo made lots of mistakes. God even sent Jesus to die, taking Theo's punishment for his sins so he could live with Jesus forever. If Jesus had done all that for him, and if God was always working in Theo's life, Theo figured he should work hard too--and today that meant building the greatest Lego kingdom ever.
Dad wiped the pasta sauce off Theo's little sister, Stella, then let her down from her high chair. "Even the best builders need a day of rest," he said.
"I'll stop when I'm done." Theo got up and walked into the playroom. He turned to see Stella crawling toward his tallest tower. "Stella…no!"
Stella tumbled into the Legos. The tower fell. Theo burst into tears. Stella's lip trembled, and she started crying too.
Dad ran in. "What's going on?"
"Stella ruined my tower!"
Dad pulled them both onto his lap. "Ready for a break now?"
Theo rested his head against Dad's shoulder, still crying. "No! I can't give up on my Legos!"
"You know, Theo, when God created the world, that was the biggest construction project ever," Dad said. "God wouldn't have needed to take a break, but He did. After six days of work, He rested. And He tells us to rest too."
"What about Jesus?" Theo wiped his tears. "He couldn't have had time to rest when He was busy saving the world."
"Actually, Jesus took breaks during His ministry. He took time to be alone and to pray."
"But…I wouldn't have gotten upset if Stella didn't knock down my tower!" Theo said.
"Or maybe you got upset because you were tired," Dad said.
Theo frowned. Maybe Dad was right. Maybe one day of rest wouldn't hurt. After all, Jesus stopped to rest, and He saved the world.
-Becca Wierwille
How About You?
Have you ever waited so long to take a break that you felt tired or frustrated? How did that affect the way you treated those around you? Sometimes we don't want to take a break. But God created the Sabbath day as a gift for us. If God took time to rest, we can too! We can rest because Jesus has already done the work of saving us. When we stop to rest and remember Jesus, it helps us grow to be more like Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. (NKJV) (Exodus 20:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Take time to rest
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:8-11
Theo wanted to make the greatest Lego kingdom ever. After several days of building, his masterpiece stretched into almost every room. His eyelids were heavy, but he wasn't done.
"You'd better take a break," Dad said as they sat down for lunch on Sunday.
Theo held in a yawn. "No time. I have work to do."
At Sunday school that morning, Theo's teacher had talked about how God was always working in their lives. God didn't give up on Theo, even though Theo made lots of mistakes. God even sent Jesus to die, taking Theo's punishment for his sins so he could live with Jesus forever. If Jesus had done all that for him, and if God was always working in Theo's life, Theo figured he should work hard too--and today that meant building the greatest Lego kingdom ever.
Dad wiped the pasta sauce off Theo's little sister, Stella, then let her down from her high chair. "Even the best builders need a day of rest," he said.
"I'll stop when I'm done." Theo got up and walked into the playroom. He turned to see Stella crawling toward his tallest tower. "Stella…no!"
Stella tumbled into the Legos. The tower fell. Theo burst into tears. Stella's lip trembled, and she started crying too.
Dad ran in. "What's going on?"
"Stella ruined my tower!"
Dad pulled them both onto his lap. "Ready for a break now?"
Theo rested his head against Dad's shoulder, still crying. "No! I can't give up on my Legos!"
"You know, Theo, when God created the world, that was the biggest construction project ever," Dad said. "God wouldn't have needed to take a break, but He did. After six days of work, He rested. And He tells us to rest too."
"What about Jesus?" Theo wiped his tears. "He couldn't have had time to rest when He was busy saving the world."
"Actually, Jesus took breaks during His ministry. He took time to be alone and to pray."
"But…I wouldn't have gotten upset if Stella didn't knock down my tower!" Theo said.
"Or maybe you got upset because you were tired," Dad said.
Theo frowned. Maybe Dad was right. Maybe one day of rest wouldn't hurt. After all, Jesus stopped to rest, and He saved the world.
-Becca Wierwille
How About You?
Have you ever waited so long to take a break that you felt tired or frustrated? How did that affect the way you treated those around you? Sometimes we don't want to take a break. But God created the Sabbath day as a gift for us. If God took time to rest, we can too! We can rest because Jesus has already done the work of saving us. When we stop to rest and remember Jesus, it helps us grow to be more like Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. (NKJV) (Exodus 20:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Take time to rest
Bible Reading: Colossians 2:6-10
"Mom!" cried Maria as she slammed the screen door behind her. "Come look at my rose bush. It's not growing!"
Grabbing her mother's hand, Maria led her out to the flower bed and pointed to a limp, wilting rose plant. "Why didn't my roses grow?" Maria asked. "Yours did."
Maria's older brother heard her cries and came to investigate. "Mom told you the roots needed to be put down deep so they would grow strong, remember?" Diego said. "You didn't plant it deep enough."
"Judging from the way the plant looks, I think Diego is right," said Mom.
"Want to plant it deeper now?" Diego asked. He picked up a shovel. "I'll help you. It will still survive, won't it, Mom?"
"I think so," replied Mom.
When the rose bush had been planted deeper, Mom gently patted the soil around it. "Good," she said. "That should help it grow. And now it's time for you kids to study your Bible club lessons. Christians need to have deep roots too, you know. We need to be firmly rooted in the Lord."
Diego grinned. "That's why you make us study our lessons and learn Bible verses, right?" he asked. "And why we go to church?"
Mom smiled. "You could say that," she said. "As you spend time in God's Word and learn more about Jesus and all He has done, you have an opportunity to take in spiritual nourishment and develop stronger, deeper roots in your understanding of Jesus's love for you." She gave them each a hug. "I'm so happy to see you both begin to blossom. It's obvious that the Holy Spirit is working in your lives and helping you grow in your faith. I can tell your roots in the Lord are becoming stronger."
Wiping her soiled hands on her jeans, Maria twirled in a circle. "I'm a flower!" she declared. "A beautiful flower." She grinned at her brother. "Are you a flower too, Diego?" she asked.
Diego chuckled. "Whatever type of plant I am, I know my roots are growing deeper in Jesus."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Did you know that the Holy Spirit helps Christians grow more and more rooted in Jesus? As we study the Bible and pray--by ourselves and with other believers--Jesus nourishes us with His truth and promises. As we dwell on the good news of Jesus and rest in who we are in Him, our lives will be changed and we will grow to be more like our Savior. Take advantage of opportunities to learn more about Jesus and spend time with Him so your roots can grow deeper.
Today's Key Verse:
[Be] rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith. (NKJV)
(Colossians 2:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Grow deep roots in Christ
Bible Reading: Colossians 2:6-10
"Mom!" cried Maria as she slammed the screen door behind her. "Come look at my rose bush. It's not growing!"
Grabbing her mother's hand, Maria led her out to the flower bed and pointed to a limp, wilting rose plant. "Why didn't my roses grow?" Maria asked. "Yours did."
Maria's older brother heard her cries and came to investigate. "Mom told you the roots needed to be put down deep so they would grow strong, remember?" Diego said. "You didn't plant it deep enough."
"Judging from the way the plant looks, I think Diego is right," said Mom.
"Want to plant it deeper now?" Diego asked. He picked up a shovel. "I'll help you. It will still survive, won't it, Mom?"
"I think so," replied Mom.
When the rose bush had been planted deeper, Mom gently patted the soil around it. "Good," she said. "That should help it grow. And now it's time for you kids to study your Bible club lessons. Christians need to have deep roots too, you know. We need to be firmly rooted in the Lord."
Diego grinned. "That's why you make us study our lessons and learn Bible verses, right?" he asked. "And why we go to church?"
Mom smiled. "You could say that," she said. "As you spend time in God's Word and learn more about Jesus and all He has done, you have an opportunity to take in spiritual nourishment and develop stronger, deeper roots in your understanding of Jesus's love for you." She gave them each a hug. "I'm so happy to see you both begin to blossom. It's obvious that the Holy Spirit is working in your lives and helping you grow in your faith. I can tell your roots in the Lord are becoming stronger."
Wiping her soiled hands on her jeans, Maria twirled in a circle. "I'm a flower!" she declared. "A beautiful flower." She grinned at her brother. "Are you a flower too, Diego?" she asked.
Diego chuckled. "Whatever type of plant I am, I know my roots are growing deeper in Jesus."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Did you know that the Holy Spirit helps Christians grow more and more rooted in Jesus? As we study the Bible and pray--by ourselves and with other believers--Jesus nourishes us with His truth and promises. As we dwell on the good news of Jesus and rest in who we are in Him, our lives will be changed and we will grow to be more like our Savior. Take advantage of opportunities to learn more about Jesus and spend time with Him so your roots can grow deeper.
Today's Key Verse:
[Be] rooted and built up in Him and established in the faith. (NKJV)
(Colossians 2:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Grow deep roots in Christ
Bible Reading: John 16:33; 1 John 4:7-10
"I'm home, Mom!" Ty poured a glass of milk and perched on a stool at the kitchen counter, thinking about all the things that had gone wrong that day. His thoughts were interrupted when his mom and great-grandmother came in.
"Hi, Ty," his great-grandma greeted him. "How do you like my new hairdo?" She grinned and turned this way and that, patting her hair.
Ty took a drink of milk. "Looks nice, Grandma."
Mom fixed tea for Grandma and herself. "Grandma got a perm this afternoon."
"Perm," Ty repeated, mulling over the word. "Why do they call it that?"
"It's short for 'permanent,'" said Grandma. "It's a special hairstyle where they change the texture of my hair with chemicals so it stays curly and I don't have to curl it myself every day. But unfortunately, it isn't really permanent. It's only temporary. After a while, it loses its curl."
Ty bit into a cookie. "Why call it a permanent then?"
"Good question! I think it's misnamed," said Grandma. "Although some other things we call permanent don't last long either."
"That's true." Mom sipped her tea. "But some things do last. For instance, the love I have for you, Ty."
"Yes, and even better, God's love for us is really permanent," said Grandma. "It goes on forever."
Ty ran his fingers through his hair. "That's nice to remember after the awful day I've had."
"You had a bad day?" asked Mom. "I'm sorry. What happened?"
"Everything went wrong. I lost my English homework and have to do it over. At recess, I fell and ripped a hole in these new jeans. And to top it off, I don't understand my math problems."
Mom hugged him. "Don't be discouraged, honey. I'll mend your jeans and help with your homework. God wants to help you too."
"That's right," said Grandma. "Even when things go wrong and it seems like God has forgotten you, He really hasn't. His love is there, strong and true."
Mom nodded. "Jesus will help you through this tough day you've had. And don't forget that the troubles we face in life are temporary. One day, when Jesus returns, He'll end all our problems for good."
"And we'll live with Him forever," said Grandma. "Or should I say, permanently!"
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Do you get upset when things go wrong? When you feel discouraged, remember that Jesus doesn't forget you. He always loves you, whether you feel it or not. His love is everlasting--it is permanent. Trust Him to help you with your problems. Our troubles are temporary, but the love and life we have in Jesus lasts forever!
Today's Key Verse:
I have loved you with an everlasting love. (NKJV) (Jeremiah 31:3)
Today's Key Thought:
God's love is permanent
Bible Reading: John 16:33; 1 John 4:7-10
"I'm home, Mom!" Ty poured a glass of milk and perched on a stool at the kitchen counter, thinking about all the things that had gone wrong that day. His thoughts were interrupted when his mom and great-grandmother came in.
"Hi, Ty," his great-grandma greeted him. "How do you like my new hairdo?" She grinned and turned this way and that, patting her hair.
Ty took a drink of milk. "Looks nice, Grandma."
Mom fixed tea for Grandma and herself. "Grandma got a perm this afternoon."
"Perm," Ty repeated, mulling over the word. "Why do they call it that?"
"It's short for 'permanent,'" said Grandma. "It's a special hairstyle where they change the texture of my hair with chemicals so it stays curly and I don't have to curl it myself every day. But unfortunately, it isn't really permanent. It's only temporary. After a while, it loses its curl."
Ty bit into a cookie. "Why call it a permanent then?"
"Good question! I think it's misnamed," said Grandma. "Although some other things we call permanent don't last long either."
"That's true." Mom sipped her tea. "But some things do last. For instance, the love I have for you, Ty."
"Yes, and even better, God's love for us is really permanent," said Grandma. "It goes on forever."
Ty ran his fingers through his hair. "That's nice to remember after the awful day I've had."
"You had a bad day?" asked Mom. "I'm sorry. What happened?"
"Everything went wrong. I lost my English homework and have to do it over. At recess, I fell and ripped a hole in these new jeans. And to top it off, I don't understand my math problems."
Mom hugged him. "Don't be discouraged, honey. I'll mend your jeans and help with your homework. God wants to help you too."
"That's right," said Grandma. "Even when things go wrong and it seems like God has forgotten you, He really hasn't. His love is there, strong and true."
Mom nodded. "Jesus will help you through this tough day you've had. And don't forget that the troubles we face in life are temporary. One day, when Jesus returns, He'll end all our problems for good."
"And we'll live with Him forever," said Grandma. "Or should I say, permanently!"
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Do you get upset when things go wrong? When you feel discouraged, remember that Jesus doesn't forget you. He always loves you, whether you feel it or not. His love is everlasting--it is permanent. Trust Him to help you with your problems. Our troubles are temporary, but the love and life we have in Jesus lasts forever!
Today's Key Verse:
I have loved you with an everlasting love. (NKJV) (Jeremiah 31:3)
Today's Key Thought:
God's love is permanent
Bible Reading: 1 Chronicles 29:10-13
Laughter erupted as the Belford family finished a rowdy game of charades.
Melody, a neighbor girl who had joined them in the game, got ready to leave. "I wish my family got along and had fun together like yours does," she told Cara. "We argue and fight all the time. Why is your family so different?"
Cara shrugged. "I guess we're just happy people. And maybe we work harder at it than some people do."
That evening, Mom served a chocolate cake for dessert. "This tastes great, Mom!" said Sawyer, Cara's brother. "You should make it more often."
"It's one of the best cakes I've ever tasted," said Dad.
"Thank you," said Mom. "I appreciate your compliments."
"Mom! No fair!" Cara complained. "You know I--"
"Oh, that's right," Mom interrupted her. "You made this cake, didn't you?"
"You did, Cara?" Dad asked. "It's delicious!"
"I don't care who made it," Sawyer mumbled through a full mouth, "as long as I get to eat it."
After dinner, Cara and her mom folded laundry while Dad and Sawyer cleaned the kitchen. "You know, honey, I have to admit something," Mom said as she paired socks. "I deliberately accepted the praise and compliments you deserved--but only temporarily and for a purpose."
"You just wanted to tease me, right?" Cara said. "That's okay, Mom."
"Actually, I wanted to make a point," said Mom. "I heard you and Melody talking earlier, and I wanted to make sure you understood the real reason our family is different. The peace, love, and joy we experience as a family doesn't come from us working hard to get along. Jesus deserves the credit for that. Because we trust in Him, He's given us His peace, love, and joy and helps us show it to one another each day."
Cara bit her lip. "I know, Mom, but I wasn't sure Melody would understand that."
"Maybe not," said Mom, "but I wanted to make sure you understood it. The reason we're able to love each other the way we do--and forgive each other when we need to--is because of Jesus."
Cara nodded. "Maybe I can find a way to help Melody understand that so she'll want to know Him too!"
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Do you remember to give God credit for the blessings He's given you? If you know Jesus, He helps you show His love in your relationships with others and experience His peace even in difficult times. Don't be afraid to let others know He is responsible for those good things in your life. Praise Him for all He's done for you, and look for opportunities to express your thankfulness to others.
Today's Key Verse:
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. (NKJV)
(Psalm 34:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Give God credit for all He does
Bible Reading: 1 Chronicles 29:10-13
Laughter erupted as the Belford family finished a rowdy game of charades.
Melody, a neighbor girl who had joined them in the game, got ready to leave. "I wish my family got along and had fun together like yours does," she told Cara. "We argue and fight all the time. Why is your family so different?"
Cara shrugged. "I guess we're just happy people. And maybe we work harder at it than some people do."
That evening, Mom served a chocolate cake for dessert. "This tastes great, Mom!" said Sawyer, Cara's brother. "You should make it more often."
"It's one of the best cakes I've ever tasted," said Dad.
"Thank you," said Mom. "I appreciate your compliments."
"Mom! No fair!" Cara complained. "You know I--"
"Oh, that's right," Mom interrupted her. "You made this cake, didn't you?"
"You did, Cara?" Dad asked. "It's delicious!"
"I don't care who made it," Sawyer mumbled through a full mouth, "as long as I get to eat it."
After dinner, Cara and her mom folded laundry while Dad and Sawyer cleaned the kitchen. "You know, honey, I have to admit something," Mom said as she paired socks. "I deliberately accepted the praise and compliments you deserved--but only temporarily and for a purpose."
"You just wanted to tease me, right?" Cara said. "That's okay, Mom."
"Actually, I wanted to make a point," said Mom. "I heard you and Melody talking earlier, and I wanted to make sure you understood the real reason our family is different. The peace, love, and joy we experience as a family doesn't come from us working hard to get along. Jesus deserves the credit for that. Because we trust in Him, He's given us His peace, love, and joy and helps us show it to one another each day."
Cara bit her lip. "I know, Mom, but I wasn't sure Melody would understand that."
"Maybe not," said Mom, "but I wanted to make sure you understood it. The reason we're able to love each other the way we do--and forgive each other when we need to--is because of Jesus."
Cara nodded. "Maybe I can find a way to help Melody understand that so she'll want to know Him too!"
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Do you remember to give God credit for the blessings He's given you? If you know Jesus, He helps you show His love in your relationships with others and experience His peace even in difficult times. Don't be afraid to let others know He is responsible for those good things in your life. Praise Him for all He's done for you, and look for opportunities to express your thankfulness to others.
Today's Key Verse:
I will bless the Lord at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth. (NKJV)
(Psalm 34:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Give God credit for all He does
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:6-7
"The storm is definitely kicking up," Dad said as he finished charging his phone.
"Dad!" Robby shouted over the sound of the raging wind outside. "Are you sure the house won't blow away?"
Dad pulled Robby closer. "The house is groaning, but it was built to handle hurricanes--and with the windows boarded up, we'll be safe."
The howling wind smacked into the side of the house. Robby dove to the floor and grabbed the couch. "Right now I wish I was attached to a huge rock."
"Spiritually, you are." Dad got down next to him. "Remember the story Jesus told about the two houses--one built on rock and the other on sand? Anyone who knows Jesus as their Savior is like a person who builds their house on rock. He gives us strength to get through life-storms."
"Life-storms?" asked Robby.
Dad nodded. "Trouble. Temptation. Anything that threatens to blow us away from trusting and obeying Jesus. When life-storms come our way, we need to remember His promises."
"How do we do that?" Robby asked.
"Well, one way we can prepare for storms is to read the Bible and pray. When we talk to Jesus and listen to the truth of His Word, it helps us remember that He is our Rock. No matter what happens, He will be with us because He has saved us and given us eternal life."
The house creaked from the wind. Robby gripped the couch tighter. "Is this the worst hurricane you've seen?"
"No," Dad said. "Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans long before you were born. I'll never forget it. Those winds topped 175 miles per hour, and it was the third largest hurricane recorded in US history."
The wind shrieked even louder. "Dad? I'm still scared--can we pray?"
Dad nodded, and they bowed their heads. The instant they finished, Robby felt a sense of peace knowing Jesus would be with them no matter what happened.
"Congratulations," Dad said. "You prayed--which is exactly what the Bible tells us to do when we're afraid. We've done everything we can; it's in God's hands now."
Robby grabbed the emergency kit. "We're prepared. Let's join Mom and Kate in the storm shelter."
-Matt Shoemaker
How About You?
Are you prepared for storms in your life? Maybe there's a life-storm you're going through right now. Jesus promises to be with you in life's storms. Pray about your problems, and trust Him to help you through them. As you talk to Jesus and listen to what He has to say to you in the Bible, He will help you remember the truth of His promises so you can stay strong when storms come.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (NIV) (Hebrews 4:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Pray in life's storms
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:6-7
"The storm is definitely kicking up," Dad said as he finished charging his phone.
"Dad!" Robby shouted over the sound of the raging wind outside. "Are you sure the house won't blow away?"
Dad pulled Robby closer. "The house is groaning, but it was built to handle hurricanes--and with the windows boarded up, we'll be safe."
The howling wind smacked into the side of the house. Robby dove to the floor and grabbed the couch. "Right now I wish I was attached to a huge rock."
"Spiritually, you are." Dad got down next to him. "Remember the story Jesus told about the two houses--one built on rock and the other on sand? Anyone who knows Jesus as their Savior is like a person who builds their house on rock. He gives us strength to get through life-storms."
"Life-storms?" asked Robby.
Dad nodded. "Trouble. Temptation. Anything that threatens to blow us away from trusting and obeying Jesus. When life-storms come our way, we need to remember His promises."
"How do we do that?" Robby asked.
"Well, one way we can prepare for storms is to read the Bible and pray. When we talk to Jesus and listen to the truth of His Word, it helps us remember that He is our Rock. No matter what happens, He will be with us because He has saved us and given us eternal life."
The house creaked from the wind. Robby gripped the couch tighter. "Is this the worst hurricane you've seen?"
"No," Dad said. "Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans long before you were born. I'll never forget it. Those winds topped 175 miles per hour, and it was the third largest hurricane recorded in US history."
The wind shrieked even louder. "Dad? I'm still scared--can we pray?"
Dad nodded, and they bowed their heads. The instant they finished, Robby felt a sense of peace knowing Jesus would be with them no matter what happened.
"Congratulations," Dad said. "You prayed--which is exactly what the Bible tells us to do when we're afraid. We've done everything we can; it's in God's hands now."
Robby grabbed the emergency kit. "We're prepared. Let's join Mom and Kate in the storm shelter."
-Matt Shoemaker
How About You?
Are you prepared for storms in your life? Maybe there's a life-storm you're going through right now. Jesus promises to be with you in life's storms. Pray about your problems, and trust Him to help you through them. As you talk to Jesus and listen to what He has to say to you in the Bible, He will help you remember the truth of His promises so you can stay strong when storms come.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us then approach God's throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need. (NIV) (Hebrews 4:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Pray in life's storms
Bible Reading: Psalm 18:2; Matthew 7:24-27
The house groaned from the winds of the tropical storm. "Dad," Kate said as she and Robby came up from the basement. "We heard noises when we were downstairs."
"It's the wind," Dad said. "The tropical storm hasn't been upgraded to a hurricane, but it's still strong. I've already prepared by boarding up the windows in case it gets worse, and I put together an emergency kit in case we need it. Plus, we've got the storm shelter room too."
Robby sat at the table. "Don't hurricanes have girl names?"
"Yes--some do," Dad said. "Years ago, the World Meteorological Organization started naming hurricanes girl's names, and many years later they starting using boy's names too."
The house creaked from the strong winds. "How long have hurricanes been around?" Robby asked.
"A long time!" Dad said. "Two thousand years ago, Jesus talked about two houses in a hurricane-like storm. One house was built on rock, but the other was built on sand. Fierce winds blew and heavy rains came. The house built on the rock stood strong, but the house built on the sand crashed to the ground."
"I don't get it," said Kate. "What's the difference between building a house on rock and building on sand?"
"Strength," Dad said. "Building a house on rock gives it a firm, solid foundation. Jesus was talking about building our lives on the Rock, which is God."
Robby leaned forward. "Wait--how do you build your life on God?"
"Read the Bible and pray?" asked Kate.
"It's more than reading the Bible and praying," said Dad. "We need to have a relationship with Jesus. We need to trust Him to save us from sin and depend on Him to help us obey Him and grow in our faith. With Jesus, we can be strong."
Robby grinned. "With muscles?"
"No," said Dad. "He gives us spiritual strength. With Jesus as our strong foundation, we can stand firm no matter what problems blow our way."
"Yeah," Robby said. "Hurricanes don't stand a chance!"
Beep, beep. Dad read the news alert on his phone. "The winds have increased to seventy-five miles per hour," he told the kids. "This tropical storm has just been upgraded to a category one hurricane."
-Matt Shoemaker
How About You?
Have you built your life on the Rock--Jesus Christ? He is a strong foundation that will never fail you. He will help you through all the hurricane-like storms of life so that you can stand firm. If you haven't yet built your life on Him, do it today by trusting Him as your Savior. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then trust Him to help you stand strong in every storm.
Today's Key Verse:
For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have--Jesus Christ. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 3:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Build your life on Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 18:2; Matthew 7:24-27
The house groaned from the winds of the tropical storm. "Dad," Kate said as she and Robby came up from the basement. "We heard noises when we were downstairs."
"It's the wind," Dad said. "The tropical storm hasn't been upgraded to a hurricane, but it's still strong. I've already prepared by boarding up the windows in case it gets worse, and I put together an emergency kit in case we need it. Plus, we've got the storm shelter room too."
Robby sat at the table. "Don't hurricanes have girl names?"
"Yes--some do," Dad said. "Years ago, the World Meteorological Organization started naming hurricanes girl's names, and many years later they starting using boy's names too."
The house creaked from the strong winds. "How long have hurricanes been around?" Robby asked.
"A long time!" Dad said. "Two thousand years ago, Jesus talked about two houses in a hurricane-like storm. One house was built on rock, but the other was built on sand. Fierce winds blew and heavy rains came. The house built on the rock stood strong, but the house built on the sand crashed to the ground."
"I don't get it," said Kate. "What's the difference between building a house on rock and building on sand?"
"Strength," Dad said. "Building a house on rock gives it a firm, solid foundation. Jesus was talking about building our lives on the Rock, which is God."
Robby leaned forward. "Wait--how do you build your life on God?"
"Read the Bible and pray?" asked Kate.
"It's more than reading the Bible and praying," said Dad. "We need to have a relationship with Jesus. We need to trust Him to save us from sin and depend on Him to help us obey Him and grow in our faith. With Jesus, we can be strong."
Robby grinned. "With muscles?"
"No," said Dad. "He gives us spiritual strength. With Jesus as our strong foundation, we can stand firm no matter what problems blow our way."
"Yeah," Robby said. "Hurricanes don't stand a chance!"
Beep, beep. Dad read the news alert on his phone. "The winds have increased to seventy-five miles per hour," he told the kids. "This tropical storm has just been upgraded to a category one hurricane."
-Matt Shoemaker
How About You?
Have you built your life on the Rock--Jesus Christ? He is a strong foundation that will never fail you. He will help you through all the hurricane-like storms of life so that you can stand firm. If you haven't yet built your life on Him, do it today by trusting Him as your Savior. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) Then trust Him to help you stand strong in every storm.
Today's Key Verse:
For no one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have--Jesus Christ. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 3:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Build your life on Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 14:10-13
"I don't think Anna is a Christian," Hunter said as he and his sister Sabrina rode their bikes up the driveway. "In fact, I'm sure she's not. She lied to me!"
Mom looked up from her flower garden. "Whoa!" she said. "I heard that. Don't you think you're making an awfully hasty judgment?"
"Well, it's not like this is the first time she lied," said Sabrina.
"Yeah," said Hunter. "She's done it lots of times before!" He and Sabrina started back down the driveway before Mom could reply.
A moment later, Hunter's howl pierced the air as he skidded on loose gravel, lost control of his bike, and fell. "My elbow," he groaned. "It hurts so bad."
"I'm sure it does," said Mom, who had rushed over to help. "It's all skinned. Come inside and we'll fix it up."
When Hunter and Mom went back outside a little later, Hunter got ready to ride his bike again. "Wait a minute," said Mom, taking hold of the handlebars. "You're not going to try to ride your bike again, are you?"
"Sure," Hunter replied. "Why not?"
"But you fell!" said Mom. "Wait until Dad gets home. He'll put the training wheels back on for you."
"Mom!" Hunter was indignant.
"Just because he fell doesn't mean he can't ride!" said Sabrina.
"Really?" Mom asked thoughtfully. "You mean slipping and falling with your bike doesn't mean you're not really a bike rider?" She smiled at the kids. "Well, guess what? Slipping and falling in your Christian life doesn't mean you're not really a Christian either."
"You're talking about Anna, aren't you?" Sabrina said.
Hunter seemed unsure of what to say. "I guess you're right," he admitted after a few moments.
"We all sin and fail to do what's right sometimes, but that doesn't mean we're no longer Christians," said Mom. "Jesus forgives us. Failing in your Christian life means you need to confess what you've done and trust Him to help you not repeat it, but we need to be careful not to judge people. Instead, we should pray for them and help them make good choices."
The kids nodded. "I'm sorry I judged Anna," said Hunter. "I know Jesus will forgive her for lying, and I'll forgive her too!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Have you been disappointed by the actions of someone who says they're a Christian? Don't judge the heart of a person who slips and falls into sin. We all fall in our walk with Jesus sometimes, but He always forgives us and picks us up again. Pray for that person instead, and leave the judgment to God. Let them know that God stands ready to forgive and that you'll forgive them too.
Today's Key Verse:
Why do you judge your brother or sister?…For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. (CSB)
(Romans 14:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't judge others
Bible Reading: Romans 14:10-13
"I don't think Anna is a Christian," Hunter said as he and his sister Sabrina rode their bikes up the driveway. "In fact, I'm sure she's not. She lied to me!"
Mom looked up from her flower garden. "Whoa!" she said. "I heard that. Don't you think you're making an awfully hasty judgment?"
"Well, it's not like this is the first time she lied," said Sabrina.
"Yeah," said Hunter. "She's done it lots of times before!" He and Sabrina started back down the driveway before Mom could reply.
A moment later, Hunter's howl pierced the air as he skidded on loose gravel, lost control of his bike, and fell. "My elbow," he groaned. "It hurts so bad."
"I'm sure it does," said Mom, who had rushed over to help. "It's all skinned. Come inside and we'll fix it up."
When Hunter and Mom went back outside a little later, Hunter got ready to ride his bike again. "Wait a minute," said Mom, taking hold of the handlebars. "You're not going to try to ride your bike again, are you?"
"Sure," Hunter replied. "Why not?"
"But you fell!" said Mom. "Wait until Dad gets home. He'll put the training wheels back on for you."
"Mom!" Hunter was indignant.
"Just because he fell doesn't mean he can't ride!" said Sabrina.
"Really?" Mom asked thoughtfully. "You mean slipping and falling with your bike doesn't mean you're not really a bike rider?" She smiled at the kids. "Well, guess what? Slipping and falling in your Christian life doesn't mean you're not really a Christian either."
"You're talking about Anna, aren't you?" Sabrina said.
Hunter seemed unsure of what to say. "I guess you're right," he admitted after a few moments.
"We all sin and fail to do what's right sometimes, but that doesn't mean we're no longer Christians," said Mom. "Jesus forgives us. Failing in your Christian life means you need to confess what you've done and trust Him to help you not repeat it, but we need to be careful not to judge people. Instead, we should pray for them and help them make good choices."
The kids nodded. "I'm sorry I judged Anna," said Hunter. "I know Jesus will forgive her for lying, and I'll forgive her too!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Have you been disappointed by the actions of someone who says they're a Christian? Don't judge the heart of a person who slips and falls into sin. We all fall in our walk with Jesus sometimes, but He always forgives us and picks us up again. Pray for that person instead, and leave the judgment to God. Let them know that God stands ready to forgive and that you'll forgive them too.
Today's Key Verse:
Why do you judge your brother or sister?…For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God. (CSB)
(Romans 14:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't judge others
Bible Reading: Matthew 10:29-31
Judson locked his model rocket's engine into place. Next, he would connect the igniter. He looked across the field, where Mom and two-year-old Kassidy fed the chickens. Good. They were far from the launch pad. Dad was mowing the fence line, so he was in the safe zone too.
Kassidy's giggles carried over the lawnmower's engine. Judson smiled. His baby sister got into his stuff, but he didn't mind--too much. When he felt impatient, he remembered the cancer.
Swallowing hard at the thought of Kassidy's chemo appointment tomorrow, and how the doctors would put needles in her again, Judson grabbed the ignition switch. He put a safe distance between himself and the rocket.
"Ready to launch!" Judson called to Mom. She waved and gave a thumbs-up. He counted down from five and--WHOOSH! The rocket blasted into the clouds.
When the parachute swirled into sight, Judson tried to follow the rocket's path, but he lost it. Where did it go? he wondered. In the back field somewhere? I might never find it!
Judson hadn't noticed that Dad had shut off the lawnmower, but now Dad ran across the field, yelling, "I've got it!" Soon after wading into the tall grass, Dad lifted the rocket over his head like a trophy.
After supper, Judson helped Mom wash dishes. "I don't want Kassidy to get chemo," he said. "She cries and gets sick, and it's just bad."
Mom looked sad. "I know."
"Doesn't God care?" asked Judson.
Mom handed him a plate to dry. "God sees us, and He cares. Remember how you almost lost your rocket today?"
"Yeah, but Dad got it."
"Even when you watched it so closely, you didn't see where it landed. But Dad did. God sees us no matter what we're facing. He is always with us."
Judson looked down at the plate in his hand. "But Kassidy's still sick."
As Kassidy's giggles filled their small house, Mom hugged Judson. "Kassidy is God's little rocket. He won't let her out of His sight. Jesus is with Kassidy--and us--even during chemo."
Judson remembered Dad running after the rocket and pictured Jesus running after Kassidy. The thought made him smile.
-Mahala Van Russell
How About You?
Have you ever had something bad happen to you? Sometimes, when bad things happen, we get mad at God or feel like He has abandoned us. When you feel this way, tell Him exactly how you feel. Jesus can take it! He loves us so much that He became human and experienced what our suffering is like, dying and rising again to beat sin and death. He is with us no matter what, and He promises to return to make all things new one day--free from sin, death, and suffering.
Today's Key Verse:
What is the price of two sparrows--one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. (NLT)
(Matthew 10:29)
Today's Key Thought:
God sees you
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-2, 8-10
Brynn tied her hair up in a ponytail. Turning away from the mirror, she bumped into her little sister Chloe. "Mom!" yelled Brynn, grabbing Chloe by the hand and pulling her to the living room. "Chloe's driving me crazy! Can you keep her with you? She's like a shadow. She follows me and does everything I do! She's such a copycat!"
Mom smiled when she saw Chloe. The little girl was standing with one hand on her hip just like her big sister, and her eyes never left Brynn's face. "You know, Brynn, you should be honored that Chloe wants to be like you," said Mom. "It shows that she loves you."
Brynn sighed. "I know, Mom. I love her too, but I'd like to be able to have some time to myself."
Mom took Chloe's hand. "Come on, sweetie. Let's give your sister some privacy." Relieved, Brynn returned to her room.
That evening during family devotions, Dad read from the fifth chapter of Ephesians. The very first verse said, "Imitate God."
"Does that remind you of how Chloe imitates you?" Mom asked Brynn.
"Yeah," said Brynn. "She always wants to follow me. She watches me and tries to do everything I do!"
"Yes," said Mom, "and this verse says we are to imitate God. We need to follow and copy Jesus."
Dad nodded. "Children learn by watching adults and imitating their actions, behaviors, and attitudes. Chloe spends a lot of time with you, Brynn, and she does her best to be like you. We need to spend time with Jesus--studying His Word, getting to know Him better, and learning how to be like Him. We need to copy the example He left us."
"Right," said Mom, "and He's also given us His Spirit to help us. The Holy Spirit works to make us more like Jesus, and as we allow Him to guide our thoughts and actions, we can show the love of Jesus to those around us."
"So, you're saying we need to be copycats of Jesus?" asked Brynn. She grinned. "If I follow Jesus and Chloe follows me, then I'll be pointing her to Jesus and His love for her, won't I? Wow!"
"Wow!" Chloe echoed, grinning at her sister.
-Mary M. Bradford
How About You?
Have you ever had someone copy you? Did a younger child follow you around and say or do the same things you did? The Bible says that's what we should do as God's children--we should be copycats of Jesus! We need to imitate His love in our relationships with others. Study God's Word to become familiar with how He responded to every situation. Then listen to the Holy Spirit as He helps you follow His example.
Today's Key Verse:
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. (NLT) (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Today's Key Thought:
Imitate Jesus
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-2, 8-10
Brynn tied her hair up in a ponytail. Turning away from the mirror, she bumped into her little sister Chloe. "Mom!" yelled Brynn, grabbing Chloe by the hand and pulling her to the living room. "Chloe's driving me crazy! Can you keep her with you? She's like a shadow. She follows me and does everything I do! She's such a copycat!"
Mom smiled when she saw Chloe. The little girl was standing with one hand on her hip just like her big sister, and her eyes never left Brynn's face. "You know, Brynn, you should be honored that Chloe wants to be like you," said Mom. "It shows that she loves you."
Brynn sighed. "I know, Mom. I love her too, but I'd like to be able to have some time to myself."
Mom took Chloe's hand. "Come on, sweetie. Let's give your sister some privacy." Relieved, Brynn returned to her room.
That evening during family devotions, Dad read from the fifth chapter of Ephesians. The very first verse said, "Imitate God."
"Does that remind you of how Chloe imitates you?" Mom asked Brynn.
"Yeah," said Brynn. "She always wants to follow me. She watches me and tries to do everything I do!"
"Yes," said Mom, "and this verse says we are to imitate God. We need to follow and copy Jesus."
Dad nodded. "Children learn by watching adults and imitating their actions, behaviors, and attitudes. Chloe spends a lot of time with you, Brynn, and she does her best to be like you. We need to spend time with Jesus--studying His Word, getting to know Him better, and learning how to be like Him. We need to copy the example He left us."
"Right," said Mom, "and He's also given us His Spirit to help us. The Holy Spirit works to make us more like Jesus, and as we allow Him to guide our thoughts and actions, we can show the love of Jesus to those around us."
"So, you're saying we need to be copycats of Jesus?" asked Brynn. She grinned. "If I follow Jesus and Chloe follows me, then I'll be pointing her to Jesus and His love for her, won't I? Wow!"
"Wow!" Chloe echoed, grinning at her sister.
-Mary M. Bradford
How About You?
Have you ever had someone copy you? Did a younger child follow you around and say or do the same things you did? The Bible says that's what we should do as God's children--we should be copycats of Jesus! We need to imitate His love in our relationships with others. Study God's Word to become familiar with how He responded to every situation. Then listen to the Holy Spirit as He helps you follow His example.
Today's Key Verse:
Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children. Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. (NLT) (Ephesians 5:1-2)
Today's Key Thought:
Imitate Jesus
Bible Reading: John 3:1-7, 16
"Of course I'm a Christian!" Easton told his friend Micah. "I go to church with my mom and dad all the time. Dad's on the church board, and Mom teaches Sunday school." Easton paused, then added, "During the church service last Sunday, they both gave testimonies about how they were saved."
"So what?" said Micah. "That doesn't make you a Christian."
"Does too!" Easton insisted.
A little later, Micah left to go home, and Easton came into the house. "Micah and I were tightening some screws on our bikes, and my hand slipped," Easton told his mom. "My finger got cut!" He held out his hand to show her. "It still hurts."
"Well, come on in," said Mom as she inspected Easton's finger. "Let's go fix it."
Mom got a small strip bandage from the medicine cabinet. She looked at it thoughtfully as she tore it open. Then she very carefully put it on her own finger. "There," she said. "Does that bandage make you feel better?"
Easton stared at his mom. Then he laughed. "Mom! It's my finger that's hurt. I'm the one who needs the bandage, not you."
"Oh?" Mom looked at him. "You mean the bandage on my finger doesn't help yours?"
"Of course not!" said Easton.
"Well," replied Mom, "a little while ago I heard you talking with Micah through the open window in the kitchen. You said that because Dad and I are Christians, you are too, right?" Easton nodded uncertainly. "Your dad and I had all our wrongs forgiven by God," Mom said. "We trusted Jesus as our Savior, and He saved us from sin and gave us eternal life with Him! If that makes you a Christian too, then I think this bandage on my finger should also take care of your cut."
Easton stared thoughtfully at his mother. "I guess you're right," he said. "I need my own bandage--and I need to trust Jesus for myself, don't I?"
"Yes, you do," Mom replied as she took out another bandage to put on Easton's finger. "Want to talk about it some more?"
Easton looked at his cut. "Yeah. I'd like that."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you come from a Christian home? Do your parents, grandparents, or other relatives know Jesus as their Savior? If you answered yes, that's great. But here's the real question--have you placed your faith in Jesus? If not, you are not a Christian. In the Bible, even Nicodemus, a religious ruler, had to be "born again," meaning he had to trust Jesus to take away his sin. You do too. Trust Jesus today so you can be a Christian too. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus replied, "I tell you the truth, unless you are born again, you cannot see the Kingdom of God." (NLT) (John 3:3)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust Jesus for yourself
Bible Reading: Mark 10:6-9; Ephesians 5:31-32
mom, are you going to divorce Dad?" Charlotte asked, tears rolling down her cheeks.
"What do you mean, honey?" asked Mom with surprise.
"I heard you and Dad arguing last night. I thought you were going to divorce him."
"Oh, Charlotte," said Mom. "It's true that we argued. We had a disagreement over holiday spending. But that doesn't mean we're getting a divorce." Mom gave Charlotte a hug. "Every couple has differences they need to work out sometimes, like Dad and I did last night. We managed to compromise and work out a solution. It gave us the opportunity to understand each other better and to be patient with each other."
"Phew!" Charlotte let out a sigh. "I'm glad you guys are still together."
"We took our marriage vows before God," said Mom. "We're trusting Him to help us honor those vows because marriage is a picture of Jesus's love for us as His church. For better, for worse--"
Charlotte jumped in. "For richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health." She stopped. "I can't remember the rest."
Mom smiled and continued. "To love and to cherish, till death do us part."
"That's beautiful, Mom," said Charlotte.
"Yes," said Mom. "In fact, this coming Saturday, we'll be celebrating our tenth wedding anniversary."
"Wow! That's great!" exclaimed Charlotte.
"And that's not all," said Mom. "Your grandparents will be celebrating their golden anniversary next month. That's fifty years of marriage!"
"That's half a century!" said Charlotte.
"That's right!" said Mom. "Grandpa and Grandma were high school sweethearts. They love each other and built a lovely family together."
"Do they argue too?" asked Charlotte.
"Sometimes, of course," replied Mom. "But they always make up and work it out. They've been together through good times and bad. When I was ten, Grandpa had a terrible car accident and Grandma took care of him. And five years ago, Grandma had cancer and Grandpa took care of her."
"They must really love each other," said Charlotte.
Mom nodded. "It's a blessing from God to be married, and the lifelong commitment of marriage is a picture of God's faithfulness toward us. Jesus will always love us and take care of us, now and forever." Kelly Choy
How About You?
Do you know anyone who has been married for many years? In marriage, God wants us to love and cherish our spouses, just like Jesus loves the church, which is made up of all those who trust in Him. Whether God calls us to be married or single, it's important to know that all our relationships are an opportunity to share God's love with each other. We can love because Jesus loved us first (1 John 4:19).
Today's Key Verse:
[Marriage] is a great mystery, but it is an illustration of the way Christ and the church are one. (NLT)
(Ephesians 5:32)
Today's Key Thought:
Marriage is a picture of God's love
Bible Reading: 1 John 3:16-18
"To start our game, I will be Simon," said Miss Elwood, Kennedy's teacher. "And remember, you must always do what Simon says, not what Simon does."
All right! thought Kennedy. I'm going to be really careful this time.
"Simon says, 'Thumbs up,'" called Miss Elwood, turning her thumbs up. Kennedy and her classmates did the same. "Simon says, 'Step forward.'" As Miss Elwood spoke, she stepped forward. The kids followed her example. "Simon says, 'Snap your fingers.'" But Miss Elwood clapped her hands instead--and before Kennedy could stop herself, she clapped her hands too.
"Oops! I goofed!" Kennedy grinned and sank to her seat. She was out.
That evening, Kennedy's family sat down to do devotions together. "Today's verse is First John 3:18," said Dad. "It says, 'Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.' Do you know what that verse means?"
"I know," said Kennedy's brother Tatum. "It means we shouldn't just say we love God or people. What we do should go along with what we say."
"Right," said Dad. "If Jesus has changed our hearts, it should show in both what we say and what we do."
Kennedy laughed. "Simon should learn this verse," she said. "At school when we play Simon Says, I always goof if the person who's Simon says one thing but does another."
"That brings up a good point," said Dad. "Sometimes we may act as though we're playing a game like that--maybe it could be called Christian Says. Sometimes Christians say one thing and do another. Can you think of examples of that from your own life? I'll start. Christian says, 'Love your neighbor,' and then I act in my own self-interest."
"Christian says, 'Love your enemies,' and then I spread rumors about a coworker who's been treating me poorly," offered Mom.
"Christian says, 'Share with others,' and then I don't let my friends touch my things," said Tatum.
Kennedy found this interesting and wanted to add something too. "Umm…Christian says, 'Be helpful,' and then I sneak out of doing the dishes."
"You've got the idea," Mom said. "Let's trust Jesus to help us make sure our actions match our words."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you play Christian Says? You can probably think of times when you said one thing and did another. But Jesus doesn't play that game. He tells us He loves us in the Bible, and He showed it by dying on the cross for our sin so we could be His children. His actions match His words. That's how we should love others too. Trust Jesus to help you show others His love in both what you say and what you do.
Today's Key Verse:
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. (NIV) (1 John 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Actions should match words
Bible Reading: 1 John 3:16-18
"To start our game, I will be Simon," said Miss Elwood, Kennedy's teacher. "And remember, you must always do what Simon says, not what Simon does."
All right! thought Kennedy. I'm going to be really careful this time.
"Simon says, 'Thumbs up,'" called Miss Elwood, turning her thumbs up. Kennedy and her classmates did the same. "Simon says, 'Step forward.'" As Miss Elwood spoke, she stepped forward. The kids followed her example. "Simon says, 'Snap your fingers.'" But Miss Elwood clapped her hands instead--and before Kennedy could stop herself, she clapped her hands too.
"Oops! I goofed!" Kennedy grinned and sank to her seat. She was out.
That evening, Kennedy's family sat down to do devotions together. "Today's verse is First John 3:18," said Dad. "It says, 'Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.' Do you know what that verse means?"
"I know," said Kennedy's brother Tatum. "It means we shouldn't just say we love God or people. What we do should go along with what we say."
"Right," said Dad. "If Jesus has changed our hearts, it should show in both what we say and what we do."
Kennedy laughed. "Simon should learn this verse," she said. "At school when we play Simon Says, I always goof if the person who's Simon says one thing but does another."
"That brings up a good point," said Dad. "Sometimes we may act as though we're playing a game like that--maybe it could be called Christian Says. Sometimes Christians say one thing and do another. Can you think of examples of that from your own life? I'll start. Christian says, 'Love your neighbor,' and then I act in my own self-interest."
"Christian says, 'Love your enemies,' and then I spread rumors about a coworker who's been treating me poorly," offered Mom.
"Christian says, 'Share with others,' and then I don't let my friends touch my things," said Tatum.
Kennedy found this interesting and wanted to add something too. "Umm…Christian says, 'Be helpful,' and then I sneak out of doing the dishes."
"You've got the idea," Mom said. "Let's trust Jesus to help us make sure our actions match our words."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you play Christian Says? You can probably think of times when you said one thing and did another. But Jesus doesn't play that game. He tells us He loves us in the Bible, and He showed it by dying on the cross for our sin so we could be His children. His actions match His words. That's how we should love others too. Trust Jesus to help you show others His love in both what you say and what you do.
Today's Key Verse:
Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. (NIV) (1 John 3:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Actions should match words
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:4-8
"Can you sleep at our campsite tonight?" Josh asked his friend Ben after spending the evening with Ben's family. "My mom says it's okay with her."
"Can I, Mom? Then I won't wake you when I get up early to go fishing."
Ben's mom nodded. "Okay, but it's already dark, so take your sleeping bag and get going."
As they started out, Josh snapped on his flashlight. "Last night I left this thing in my pocket all the way home. I'm not gonna make the same mistake twice!"
When they came to a narrow stretch of the path, Josh led the way and Ben followed behind him. "Can you see okay, Ben?" Josh turned back to light Ben's path. As they walked along, Josh continued to leave the beam of light on the path behind him, making sure Ben could see. "Last night I fell over a tree root," Josh said, "and I don't want--oops!" Down he went, and the flashlight went flying into a bush.
After the boys recovered the light, Josh turned to Ben. "Walk up here with me so we can both see where we're going."
When they arrived at the campsite, Josh's family was waiting. "We saw your light and heard a crash," said Mom. "What happened this time?"
"Fell again even though you were using the flashlight, didn't you?" teased Cora. "Maybe you need glasses."
After hearing the story, Dad smiled. "Do you know who you remind me of tonight?" he asked. Josh shook his head. "You remind me of myself--again!" Dad said. "You were using your flashlight this time, but you were pointing it on somebody else's path. I've done the same thing with the light of the Bible. There have been times when I've heard God's Word preached at church and thought, I hope so-and-so is listening. They really need to hear this. Or times when I've read something in the Bible and applied it to another person's life instead of my own."
"So," began Cora, "we need to shine the Bible's light on our own paths and lives."
Dad nodded. "God's Word sometimes contains hard truths, but it also tells us the good news of Jesus and what He did to save us. We need to apply everything it says to our lives. That's the way to keep from falling!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
As you read today's Key Verse, did you notice the word my? Read it again, and emphasize that word. Whenever you read the Bible, apply what it says to yourself. Each of us must check our own heart when we hear the truth of God's Word instead of pointing to others. Trust Jesus to help you shine the light of His Word on your path by applying its truth to your life.
Today's Key Verse:
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (NKJV)
(Psalm 119:105)
Today's Key Thought:
Apply Bible truths to yourself
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:105, 127-130
"It's so dark out," said Cora as she and her brother Josh stumbled along the path through the woods. They had been visiting some friends who were camping just a short distance from their own campsite.
"At least we don't have far to go," said Josh. "We're almost--" His words cut off as he caught his toe on a tree root and fell. "Ow!" he yelled.
Cora reached down to help him up. "Are you hurt?"
"Not much," Josh replied. "But I think I skinned my knee. It hurts." He began to brush himself off. "We'd better not go quite so fast." Cora agreed, and the two of them moved slowly and carefully along until they reached the campsite where their parents were waiting for them.
"We could hear you two coming," said Mom. "We heard a yell. Are you okay?"
"Josh fell," said Cora, "but he's not hurt much. It was so dark, we couldn't see when there was stuff in our way."
"You had your pocket flashlight with you," said Dad. "Why didn't you use it?"
"My flashlight!" Josh reached into his pocket and pulled it out. "I forgot I had it." Everyone laughed.
"Can I have a bandage for my knee?" Josh asked.
"Sure," said Mom. "I'll get one for you."
"You kids remind me of myself," Dad said while Mom cleaned and bandaged Josh's knee. "I have a light for my path, but sometimes I forget to use it or just don't bother."
"Really?" asked Cora. "Are you talking about the flashlight on your phone?"
Dad shook his head. "I'm talking about my Bible," he said. "God says His Word is a light to our paths. It tells us about Jesus, the light of the world who died and rose again to save us from sin. The Bible helps us get to know Him better and encourages us in our walk with Him. But it doesn't do us any good if we don't use it." Dad held up his phone. "Gather 'round now," he said. "It's time for our family devotions--and since it's so dark, I'll read the Bible on this."
Josh grinned. "I guess that means you have two lights on your phone!"
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you read your Bible regularly? Do you listen when it's being taught at church? It contains the truth and promises God wants to share with you. It tells the story of Jesus, who loves you and died for your sins. It offers encouragement and comfort in hard times and guidance in how to live your life. But unless you use it, it can't help you. Don't stumble along in the dark. Use your Bible and follow the light it gives.
Today's Key Verse:
The teaching of your word gives light, so even the simple can understand. (NLT) (Psalm 119:130)
Today's Key Thought:
Read your Bible
Bible Reading: Titus 2:7-8, 11-14
"Eden makes me so mad! Melanie fumed as she walked home from Eden's house. The two friends had argued, and now Melanie thought of more things she wished she had said to Eden--and they weren't nice. Well, I'm not going back there. I'll text her and tell her what I think of her, she thought. All the way home, Melanie planned what she'd say.
"That'll fix her," Melanie muttered after sending an angry note to her friend. But as she headed for the kitchen, she felt bad. Eden was her best friend.
Mom was making dinner when Melanie sat down on a stool at the kitchen counter. Mom glanced at her. "Problems?" she asked. "You don't look happy."
"I…I…" Melanie began, and the story tumbled out. "I shouldn't have sent that message," she said. "Maybe she didn't see it yet. How can I get her to not read it?"
Mom shook her head. "Sorry, honey, but I'm afraid you can't."
"Maybe I could call her and ask her to delete it without reading it," Melanie suggested.
"Do you really think that would work?" Mom asked. Melanie sighed and shook her head. "Once we send something, we can't take it back," said Mom.
"But, Mom!" cried Melanie. "What can I do?"
"Calling her is a good idea, but call to apologize and tell her you're sorry."
Melanie blew her nose. "Okay," she said. "I will."
"And let this be a reminder the next time you're tempted to say--or text--something hurtful to someone," said Mom. "Remember that, just like you couldn't take back that message, we can't take back any of the words we say once we say them. That's why the Bible tells us to choose our words carefully--and also our thoughts and actions. We can't live any part of our lives over."
"So we have to be careful about what we say and do from the start, right?" Melanie said thoughtfully. "Much more careful than I was today. I'll remember that."
"Good," said Mom. "You should also remember that we can ask Jesus to forgive us and help us change our ways when we're not as careful as we should be and fail to show others His love. And we can ask those we hurt to forgive us too."
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Have you said or done things you wish you hadn't? You can't take back those words or actions, but you can tell people you're sorry and ask their forgiveness. You can ask Jesus to forgive you too. He will, and He'll help you change your ways so others can see His grace and love in your life. Consider each day a gift from God, and trust Him to help you live it carefully.
Today's Key Verse:
[God's grace] teaches us…to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age. (NIV) (Titus 2:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Live each day carefully
Bible Reading: 1 John 4:16-17
Gabe watched his tablet with rapt attention. This new game looked so cool! It had
everything: monsters, sword fights, pirate ships...this had to be the best game he would ever play.
"Dad, check out this game that's coming out! The preview looks so cool. Do you think we can get it?" Gabe asked eagerly.
Dad took the tablet and watched a few moments of the trailer. "I'll have to check it out a little more, but it does look fun. You know, game studios often show amazing trailers for games, but then the actual game doesn't measure up. It's not always a good preview of what's coming out," Dad remarked.
"Maybe, but I still want to try it." Gabe kept thinking about the new game as he put away his tablet and got ready to go to the hospital. His family volunteered to visit sick people who didn't get many visitors.
As they stepped off the elevator, Gabe asked his dad, "Why do we come and talk to people here at the hospital? Don't they have family who can visit them?"
"Sometimes they do, but a lot of the patients who stay at the hospital a long time don't get many visitors, and they get lonely," Dad said as they walked down the hallway. "When we come say hi, we cheer them up, and that can help them feel better. It's one way we can show the love of Jesus to them." They turned into a hospital room and chatted with a man recovering from surgery.
Back at home, Gabe was still thinking about what his dad said and the video game trailer he had watched earlier. He realized something and ran to his dad. "You know what? We're just like that trailer I showed you earlier, but we're trailers for Jesus! When we visit people in the hospital, we're showing a little bit of what the kingdom of God will be like."
Dad smiled at Gabe. "You're exactly right! I never thought of it that way before. When we care about those who are sick and help them feel better, we're showing them what Jesus is like and point to His promise to heal all sickness one day. I just hope we're more accurate previews of God's kingdom than some of the games I've played!"
-Nicole Kraayenbrink
How About You?
Do you think the way you act and treat people matters? If you're a Christian, the way you act should reflect what God's kingdom looks like. That means treating people with love and kindness as Jesus did, because He died and rose again to make us part of His kingdom. What are some ways you could be a preview of God's kingdom?
Today's Key Verse:
Heal the sick, and tell them, "The Kingdom of God is near you now." (NLT) (Luke 10:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Show others the kingdom of God
Bible Reading: Romans 5:1; Colossians 4:5-6; 1 Peter 3:15
Amy chatted with her friend Sara as Amy's dad drove them to a youth banquet at church. It was a dress-up event, and both girls had new outfits for the occasion. "I'm so glad you could come with me tonight," Amy told Sara. "You look so nice."
"Thanks--and thanks for inviting me," said Sara. "I've never been to an event at a church before. How come you go all the time?"
"Well, I go to worship God and learn more about Him." Amy paused, then added, "I'm a Christian--I've trusted Jesus to save me, and I love Him."
"What do you mean--you trusted Him to save you? Save you from what?" asked Sara.
"From sin. We're all sinners--we've all done wrong things," Amy explained. "But Jesus took the punishment for our sins by dying on the cross."
Their conversation was interrupted when they arrived at church. The girls waved goodbye to Dad and turned to go up the church steps.
Amy glanced down at her feet and froze. "Sara," she gasped, "I forgot my shoes! I've got my old bedroom slippers on! Why didn't you tell me?"
"I never noticed," Sara said. She laughed as she looked at Amy's bare toes sticking out of fuzzy animal slippers. "They do look pretty funny with that outfit."
"I'm not going in there like this!" said Amy. She introduced Sara to a friend, then made a quick phone call to her mom and waited at the church door for Dad to bring her good shoes.
"I thought you were wearing just the right shoes," Dad said when he arrived.
Amy held up the slippers. "You like these silly things?"
Dad laughed. "Oh, I didn't notice those, but I did notice that you were ready with an answer when Sara questioned you about your faith in Jesus. The Bible calls that having your feet 'fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace.' In other words, we should always be ready to tell others about the peace and hope we have in Jesus. That's so much more important than wearing dressy shoes with your new outfit."
Dad gave Amy a hug. "Have fun tonight," he said. "We'll be praying for you and for Sara."
"Thanks, Dad," said Amy. "And thanks for bringing my shoes too."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you ready at any time to share your faith with others? That may mean talking to someone about Jesus. It may mean explaining what you believe or why you do--or don't do--certain things. Always be prepared to let others know you belong to Jesus and have His peace in your heart--and that they can have it too.
Today's Key Verse:
Stand firm…with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. (NIV)
(Ephesians 6:14-15)
Today's Key Thought:
Be ready to share your faith
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:14-15; Galatians 2:20; 1 Peter 1:18-19
"It finally came!" Jack said, eagerly tearing open the package that had just arrived. "Here's the special marker set I ordered. The markers come in lots of different colors, and look--there's even a case with a handle so you can carry them around." Jack held up the case of markers so his mom could see it. His little sister Teagan reached for it, but Jack pulled it back. "These markers cost me money," he said. "Nobody gets to use them but me."
"I can use them too!" Teagan insisted.
"No, you can't," said Jack. "These are mine, and they're special. You have plenty of other markers you can use to draw pictures with. You can't use these."
Teagan pouted. "Can too," she said. "Can't I, Mommy?"
Mom shook her head. "Only if Jack says you can," she said. "Jack paid for the markers, so he has the right to say if or when you can use them."
"Hey, that's like what we talked about in my class at church last week," said Jack. "Mr. Wyatt said God bought us and we belong to Him."
"How did God buy us?" Teagan asked. "Did we cost a lot?"
"Yes, we did," Mom replied. "It cost Jack some money to buy that set of markers, but it cost Jesus His blood to purchase our salvation." Mom smiled at Teagan. "God made you and loves you, but you do wrong things. You've sinned--all of us have--and sin separates us from God, because He is good and it goes against who He is. But God still loves you, and He paid a great price to buy you back. The sacrifice Jesus made when He shed His blood by dying on the cross paid the price of your sin so you could be forgiven and belong to God."
"I gave up some of my own money to buy this," said Jack, looking at the case of markers he was holding. "But God gave up His own Son to buy us!" Jack opened the case and put it on the table. "Here, Teagan," he said. "Since I belong to God, I want to obey Him. And I think He'd want me to share these with you."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you have something that you bought with your own money? If you paid for it, it's yours, isn't it? Well, did you know that Jesus paid the price to free you from sin? He loves you so much that He willingly shed His blood so you could have your wrongs forgiven. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? Trust in Him today, and you will belong to Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
You were bought, but not with things that ruin like gold or silver. You were bought with the precious blood of Christ's death. (ERV) (1 Peter 1:18-19)
Today's Key Thought:
You belong to God
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:22-24
Long road trips can be a blast, and this one was no exception. Emily, Cooper, and their mom were taking a trip from their home in California all the way up to Washington to visit their grandparents. The first quiet night of driving had passed, and Cooper and Emily woke up to a showstopping sunrise.
"Whoa!" Cooper exclaimed, taking in the beauty of the sky. "The clouds look exactly like someone painted them on a piece of paper."
"Look, Mom." Emily pointed out the window. "The sun is still rising, but only some of the clouds have changed colors." Pink-and-orange-tinted clouds floated just below gray ones.
"You're right!" Mom said. "Where the light of the sun hasn't hit the clouds, they still look the same." She passed each of the kids an apple, adding, "We'll be stopping for breakfast soon."
"Thanks!" Emily bit into her apple and looked out the window, pondering. "Hmm. Don't you think we're kind of like the clouds? Jesus shines His light into our hearts and changes them, and He helps us become more like Him." She giggled. "I think I'm a pink cloud!"
"But sometimes we make ourselves look more like those gray clouds," Cooper said. "We don't always do things that reflect Jesus's light so people can see how He's changed us."
Emily nodded, remembering how she and Cooper had argued the day before about who was going to sit in the front seat. The mean words she'd said to him danced around in her head.
"That's something everyone has a hard time with, even parents," Mom said, smiling. "Even though Jesus has changed us, we still sin and do things that are wrong sometimes. But when we admit our wrongs to Jesus, He forgives us and helps us act with love instead of selfishness."
The kids were silent for a minute, then Cooper spoke up. "Sorry about fighting yesterday, Em," he said sheepishly.
"That's okay," she responded quickly. "Me too." She ate the last bite of her apple, then pointed out the window with a grin. "Pretty sure you're that orange cloud over there!"
-Sydney Apperson
How About You?
Have you trusted Jesus as your Savior? If so, He has changed your heart and made you a new person! But sometimes our words and actions are reflections of what we want instead of what Jesus has done for us. When you do something that fails to show others the light and love of Jesus, confess it to Him, and tell anyone you've wronged you're sorry too. Then trust Jesus to help you live in a way that allows people to see how He's changed you.
Today's Key Verse:
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! (NIV)
(2 Corinthians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Reflect the light of Jesus
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:22-24
Long road trips can be a blast, and this one was no exception. Emily, Cooper, and their mom were taking a trip from their home in California all the way up to Washington to visit their grandparents. The first quiet night of driving had passed, and Cooper and Emily woke up to a showstopping sunrise.
"Whoa!" Cooper exclaimed, taking in the beauty of the sky. "The clouds look exactly like someone painted them on a piece of paper."
"Look, Mom." Emily pointed out the window. "The sun is still rising, but only some of the clouds have changed colors." Pink-and-orange-tinted clouds floated just below gray ones.
"You're right!" Mom said. "Where the light of the sun hasn't hit the clouds, they still look the same." She passed each of the kids an apple, adding, "We'll be stopping for breakfast soon."
"Thanks!" Emily bit into her apple and looked out the window, pondering. "Hmm. Don't you think we're kind of like the clouds? Jesus shines His light into our hearts and changes them, and He helps us become more like Him." She giggled. "I think I'm a pink cloud!"
"But sometimes we make ourselves look more like those gray clouds," Cooper said. "We don't always do things that reflect Jesus's light so people can see how He's changed us."
Emily nodded, remembering how she and Cooper had argued the day before about who was going to sit in the front seat. The mean words she'd said to him danced around in her head.
"That's something everyone has a hard time with, even parents," Mom said, smiling. "Even though Jesus has changed us, we still sin and do things that are wrong sometimes. But when we admit our wrongs to Jesus, He forgives us and helps us act with love instead of selfishness."
The kids were silent for a minute, then Cooper spoke up. "Sorry about fighting yesterday, Em," he said sheepishly.
"That's okay," she responded quickly. "Me too." She ate the last bite of her apple, then pointed out the window with a grin. "Pretty sure you're that orange cloud over there!"
-Sydney Apperson
How About You?
Have you trusted Jesus as your Savior? If so, He has changed your heart and made you a new person! But sometimes our words and actions are reflections of what we want instead of what Jesus has done for us. When you do something that fails to show others the light and love of Jesus, confess it to Him, and tell anyone you've wronged you're sorry too. Then trust Jesus to help you live in a way that allows people to see how He's changed you.
Today's Key Verse:
Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here! (NIV)
(2 Corinthians 5:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Reflect the light of Jesus
Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:8-11
A cold wind whipped through the cemetery and stung Colin's face. He tried to listen as the minister read from the Bible. I wonder if Grandpa is with Jesus in heaven, he thought for the hundredth time in the last few days. On the way home, Colin finally asked the question that lay heavy on his heart. "Did Grandpa go to heaven, Dad?"
Dad looked somber. "We believe so. You probably remember that Grandpa didn't show much interest when I talked to him about Jesus." Colin felt empty inside when he heard this. "But Grandpa died on his knees beside his bed," Dad added. "He was apparently talking to God."
Mom spoke in a gentle voice. "Just the day before that, I spent some extra time praying he would trust Jesus as his Savior, and then I went to his room and told him again how he could have his sins forgiven and be saved. We can't be sure, but we believe Grandpa did put his trust in Jesus just before he died."
Colin felt a little better as he thought about that. Then with a sigh he said, "But I wish I knew for sure."
"I do too, Colin, but we have to leave Grandpa in God's hands now," said Dad. "We did all we could do. We told Grandpa many times how Jesus died and rose again to give us eternal life, and for years we prayed he would understand and accept God's gift of salvation. We were loving and kind to him, always hoping he would see the difference Jesus made in our lives and that he would want to know Him too."
"There are some things we'll never know while we're on this earth," said Mom. "But we told Grandpa what the Bible says, and God promises His Word will accomplish what He intends for it to do. He also says His ways are higher than ours, and He does all things right."
At home, Colin went to his room and rubbed his fingers over the worn leather of a baseball mitt Grandpa had given him. "Dear Lord," he prayed, "You know I loved Grandpa and want him to be in heaven with You. Thank You for loving him too, and for doing everything right."
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Are you wondering if someone you love went to heaven when they died? It always hurts when a loved one dies, but it's especially painful when you don't know if that person was saved and went to be with Jesus. If you're in that position, give your worries and heartache to God. Rest in the knowledge that His ways are higher than ours and that He will always do what's right.
Today's Key Verse:
Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right? (NKJV)
(Genesis 18:25)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God's way
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:7-12
"Where's Leila?" called Claire in a singsong voice as she played with her baby sister. "Where is Leila hiding?"
Leila peeked through the chubby little fingers she was holding in front of her face. Suddenly she dropped her hand. "There she is!" exclaimed Claire. "There's Leila!"
The baby squealed in delight and promptly placed her fingers back over her eyes, ready to play the game again. Claire laughed too. "You really think you're hiding from me, don't you?" she said. "Babies are silly, aren't they, Mom?"
"It can seem that way," said Mom. "They don't yet understand that they can still be seen even when they cover their eyes and can't see anything else." Mom smiled at Claire. "However, when people your age or my age try to hide, that really is silly!"
"What people?" Claire asked. "You mean like those who try to hide from the police? Or kids who try to hide from their parents or each other? But they don't try to hide by covering their faces with their hands."
"We may not use the same method of hiding," said Mom, "but I was actually thinking of how we sometimes try to hide from God."
Claire frowned. "Nobody can hide from Him, right? He knows everything."
"Yes, He does, but we often seem to forget that. We'll do something wrong and seem to think nobody knows about it. Even Christians, who should know better, sometimes act as though they can hide what they've done--forgetting that God knows all about it."
"I know I've tried to do that myself," Claire admitted. She laughed when she saw Leila once again peeking through her fingers. "It's cute when a baby thinks she can hide, but it's not cute for us to think that way, is it?"
"No," said Mom. "Trying to hide only makes things worse. When we do something wrong, we need to be honest about it and confess it to Jesus. He died to take the punishment for our sin so we could have a relationship with Him, so there's no reason to hide. Instead, we need to ask Him for forgiveness."
Claire grinned as her baby sister's hands fell away from her face. "There's Leila!" Claire said, and they both erupted in giggles.
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you think nobody knows you did something wrong? Broke that lamp? Told that lie? Snitched that cookie? God knows. You can't hide anything from Him. If you've done something wrong, confess it to Jesus, and He will forgive you. Then tell anyone else you've wronged and ask them for forgiveness too.
Today's Key Verse:
"Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?" declares the Lord. "Do not I fill heaven and earth?" (NIV)
(Jeremiah 23:24)
Today's Key Thought:
You can't hide from God
Bible Reading: Psalm 139:7-12
"Where's Leila?" called Claire in a singsong voice as she played with her baby sister. "Where is Leila hiding?"
Leila peeked through the chubby little fingers she was holding in front of her face. Suddenly she dropped her hand. "There she is!" exclaimed Claire. "There's Leila!"
The baby squealed in delight and promptly placed her fingers back over her eyes, ready to play the game again. Claire laughed too. "You really think you're hiding from me, don't you?" she said. "Babies are silly, aren't they, Mom?"
"It can seem that way," said Mom. "They don't yet understand that they can still be seen even when they cover their eyes and can't see anything else." Mom smiled at Claire. "However, when people your age or my age try to hide, that really is silly!"
"What people?" Claire asked. "You mean like those who try to hide from the police? Or kids who try to hide from their parents or each other? But they don't try to hide by covering their faces with their hands."
"We may not use the same method of hiding," said Mom, "but I was actually thinking of how we sometimes try to hide from God."
Claire frowned. "Nobody can hide from Him, right? He knows everything."
"Yes, He does, but we often seem to forget that. We'll do something wrong and seem to think nobody knows about it. Even Christians, who should know better, sometimes act as though they can hide what they've done--forgetting that God knows all about it."
"I know I've tried to do that myself," Claire admitted. She laughed when she saw Leila once again peeking through her fingers. "It's cute when a baby thinks she can hide, but it's not cute for us to think that way, is it?"
"No," said Mom. "Trying to hide only makes things worse. When we do something wrong, we need to be honest about it and confess it to Jesus. He died to take the punishment for our sin so we could have a relationship with Him, so there's no reason to hide. Instead, we need to ask Him for forgiveness."
Claire grinned as her baby sister's hands fell away from her face. "There's Leila!" Claire said, and they both erupted in giggles.
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you think nobody knows you did something wrong? Broke that lamp? Told that lie? Snitched that cookie? God knows. You can't hide anything from Him. If you've done something wrong, confess it to Jesus, and He will forgive you. Then tell anyone else you've wronged and ask them for forgiveness too.
Today's Key Verse:
"Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?" declares the Lord. "Do not I fill heaven and earth?" (NIV)
(Jeremiah 23:24)
Today's Key Thought:
You can't hide from God
Bible Reading: Colossians 2:6-7; 3:17
"Grandma," Zemirah sobbed, her brown eyes glistening with tears. "I miss Mom."
"Oh, sweetheart," Grandma soothed, hugging her. "I know it's hard not being able to see your mom right now, but she's at the hospital preparing for your new baby sister's arrival. How about we make your favorite chocolate cookies and then we'll have a thank-you walk?"
Zemirah nodded and dried her eyes, then followed Grandma to the kitchen to help her bake.
"Now, while we wait for them to cool, let's go for our thank-you walk," Grandma said after she placed the cookies on the cooling rack. She took a floral bag from a hook by the door on their way out.
"What's a thank-you walk?" Zemirah asked as they strolled down to the beach. The waves lapped over the sand and the breeze tickled their skin.
"We walk and collect shells or pebbles for all the things we are thankful for. I'll start." Grandma scooped up a shell. "I'm glad I had the chance to love your grandpa for so many years and that he is with Jesus."
Zemirah selected a shell. "I'm thankful for my cat, Fluffy." She reached for another shell and added, "And for my family."
Both of them continued picking up shells and dropping them into the bag. As Zemirah collected each one, she realized there were many blessings she was grateful for.
"I'm thankful for Grandma's baking and that she takes me on walks to cheer me up," Zemirah said, forgetting the worries churning inside her. Instead, she thought of everything that made her happy.
Soon the bag was bursting with shells. "Look how many we've collected!" exclaimed Zemirah. "I can't believe it. Let's make something in the sand."
Grandma sat nearby on a rock while Zemirah laid out all the shells in the shape of a heart in the sand.
"Look, Grandma! I've made a heart with all the blessings we've been given. It's a thank-you to God because He loves us so much and sent His Son, Jesus, to save us. Let's take a photo to remember our special walk."
Grandma took a picture with her phone, then Zemirah skipped back home alongside her, eager to enjoy the cookies they had baked. Having a baby sister was going to be fun!
-Cindy Lee
How About You?
Do you complain when you face difficulties or changes in your life? Sometimes it's easy to grumble and dwell on our problems, but even during trials, it's important to praise God and be thankful. Jesus loves us and wants us to be filled with the joy of knowing Him, even during hard times. He has given us so many blessings. What things or people in your life are you grateful for?
Today's Key Verse:
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (NKJV)
(1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Be thankful
Bible Reading: Ephesians 1:18-21
"Whew! I'm so hot!" Matt groaned as he slowly cycled up a hill. Sweat ran down his face and his legs were aching.
A few feet ahead, Dad turned around and grinned. "You're doing great! Just over this hill is a café. We'll stop for ice cream."
Before Matt could answer, a motorbike cruised around the corner and zipped past the two cyclists. It was gone in a flash. "Wow! What I wouldn't give to have a motor on my bike right now!" puffed Matt enviously.
"Me too!" his dad called back to him.
They finally made it up the hill and arrived at the café. The motorbike was parked outside. Matt stopped to admire it. "It sure is a beauty," he said.
"It is," Dad agreed, "but let's go inside and get that ice cream."
That evening, Dad opened his Bible for devotions. "We're up to Ephesians chapter six tonight," he said. He started reading, then stopped after reading verse ten. He read it again slowly. "Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might." Dad looked up. "This verse reminds me of something that happened today. Remember when we were going up that steep hill and that motorbike zipped by?"
Matt rolled his eyes. "Sure I do! Man, was I jealous! But what's that got to do with this verse?"
"Well, what's the difference between the way you use a standard bike and a motorbike?" Dad asked.
"That's easy," said Matt. "You need a lot of energy and strength to ride a standard bike. But a motorbike's engine has all the power and energy you need. You just ride." He paused. "The power of His might," he murmured. "Is that verse saying that God gives us power--like a motorbike's engine does?"
Dad nodded. "Christians often spend a lot of time struggling to do things on our own, but we don't have to! We have the power of the Holy Spirit, who helps us turn from sin and follow His will for our lives. Instead of trying to do things in our own strength, we need to rely on Him."
"I think I get it," said Matt. "If we trust God to help us, we can do whatever He tells us to do." He grinned. "Then we'll be riding, not just cycling!"
-Emily Lauridsen
How About You?
Do you get stressed and worried about your troubles? Are you frustrated when you feel like you should do something but don't really know how to go about it? When God puts it on your heart to do something, don't struggle to handle it on your own. Trust Him to help you. Through the Holy Spirit, you have the power to do all God wants you to do.
Today's Key Verse:
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. (NKJV)
(Philippians 4:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God for help
Bible Reading: Luke 9:23-26; John 10:14-15
"Mary had a little lamb, little lamb, little lamb…" Brielle stopped singing as she entered the kitchen. "Hi, Mom. I'm going to do my devotions now before I go over to Ayla's house to play."
"Sounds good," said Mom.
Brielle resumed her song as she went to her room and got out her Bible and devotional book. "It followed her to school one day, school one day, school one day…" Then there was silence as Brielle settled down and began to read.
Soon the song began again. "It made the children laugh and play, laugh and play, laugh and play…" In the kitchen, Mom smiled as the singing got louder. A minute later, Brielle stood in the doorway. "I'm all done, Mom." Brielle grinned. "Mary had a good disciple, didn't she?"
Mom raised her brows. "A good what?"
"A good disciple. The Bible story I read today was about Jesus's twelve disciples. My devotional book says a disciple is a follower--and Mary's lamb followed her wherever she went," Brielle explained. "The lamb was a good disciple."
Mom laughed. "I guess you're right. Like the song says, the lamb was so eager to be with Mary that it even followed her to school."
Brielle nodded. "We should follow Jesus like that, shouldn't we? Even if kids at school think we're weird."
"You're right about that," said Mom. "All of us who know Jesus--whether we're kids or adults--must follow Him. Others may laugh at us, but Jesus was laughed at too when He suffered and died for our sins. He was willing to make that sacrifice so we could be saved and have eternal life, so we should be willing to make sacrifices for Him. We should do what He wants us to do no matter what other people think."
Brielle nodded thoughtfully. "The Bible says Jesus is the Good Shepherd and we are His sheep, doesn't it? So I guess Mary's lamb is a good example of how we should live as Jesus's disciples!"
"That's right," said Mom. "Jesus loves us and promises to take care of us, just like Mary took care of her lamb. That's why we can trust and follow Him."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you a follower of Jesus? Have you trusted Him to save you from sin? Then you are His disciple. He's teaching you to trust Him in every situation, to obey His commands, and to love others the way He does. There will be times when others laugh at you because you trust in Jesus, but He will never leave you. He is the Good Shepherd who loves and cares for His sheep. Follow Him.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said,] "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me." (NIV)
(Luke 9:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Be a follower of Jesus
Bible Reading: John 15:9-14, 17
"Go away, Gabriel!" yelled Kayla as her little brother rode his bicycle through the chalk pictures she and her friend Aria were drawing on the sidewalk in front of their apartment. Gabriel laughed and zoomed down the street.
"He's such a pest, isn't he?" Aria said. Kayla nodded as she colored over the marks the tires had made. Aria made a face. "What a horrible kid!"
"Gabriel isn't all that bad," said Kayla.
"He is too. He should be grounded for life or something!" grumbled Aria.
Kayla quickly came to the defense of her brother. "Gabriel just likes to goof around. He's a good kid most of the time."
"I can't stand him," Aria replied. "Oh, look, here he comes. If he bothers us again, I'll--" She was interrupted when…CRASH! The front tire of Gabriel's bike caught in a piece of loose cement, and the bike flipped over on its side. Gabriel fell with it, his foot tangled in the spokes. He started to cry.
"Serves him right," said Aria. "Crybaby!"
"Aria!" exclaimed Kayla. "Gabriel is hurt."
"Too bad!" Aria turned to go. "I'm leaving!"
"Come on, Gabriel," said Kayla, and she helped her brother into the building as Aria stormed off.
"Aria's mean!" Kayla fumed as Mom washed and bandaged Gabriel's scrapes.
"You often criticize Gabriel yourself," said Mom, "so I'm a bit surprised you stood up for him now."
Kayla shrugged. "He's family--he's my brother," she said. "I love him."
"Good. I'm glad you defended him," said Mom. "But remember that you and Aria are both Christians, so that makes her your sister. You're both part of God's family."
"Does that mean I have to love her like I do Gabriel?" Kayla asked.
Mom nodded. "It doesn't mean you have to listen to her criticize your brother," she said. "But it does mean you should be patient and forgive her like Jesus forgave you. The Bible says love covers a multitude of sins. Jesus loves Aria and forgives her when she does things that are wrong, just like He loves and forgives you. He'll help you love and forgive her too."
"Well…" Kayla hesitated. "Okay," she said. "I guess I do love Aria too."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you love all of God's family--your brothers and sisters in Christ? The Bible says love covers a multitude of sins. Jesus invites you to trust in Him and let His perfect love and sacrifice cover all the wrong you have done. He also tells us to love others as He does. Do you do that? Are you willing to overlook differences of opinion? To forgive when you feel hurt? Trust Jesus to help you love others the way He loves you.
Today's Key Verse:
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. (NIV) (1 Peter 4:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Love all members of God's family
Bible Reading: Genesis 17:1-8
"Can you pronounce your name for me, please?" the teacher asked.
Hania felt her cheeks burn. It was her first day at a new school, and it was hard enough being the new girl without having to constantly pronounce her name. "Um…" she stammered. "It's Hon-ya Jack-yoo-bow-skee."
"Thank you. Everyone, this is Hania. Please make her feel welcome today."
When Hania came home that evening, her mom was in the kitchen preparing dinner. "How's your new school?" Mom asked.
Hania sighed. "Fine. It's just that everyone I met had to ask me to pronounce my name. I wish I had a normal name like everyone else."
"I understand that," Mom said. "But names are very special things. We shouldn't change them lightly."
"Special how?" Hania asked.
"Well," her mom said, "did you know that in the Bible, God gave Abraham his name as a reminder?" Hania shook her head. "At first, his name was just Abram," Mom told her. "But God promised him he would be the father of many nations. As a reminder of that promise, God changed Abram's name to Abraham, which means 'Father of a Multitude.' Years later, even though Abraham and Sarah were old, they had a baby named Isaac. God fulfilled His promise to Abraham, and through Abraham's line of descendants, He fulfilled another promise--when Jesus was born, He fulfilled God's promise to send a Savior for the whole world."
Mom smiled at Hania. "Your name is a reminder too. When your great-great-grandparents moved here from Poland, they didn't have much money, they didn't know much English, and they were very scared. But they were brave and hardworking, and they believed Jesus's promise that He would always be with them. And do you know what your great-great-grandmother's name was?"
"Hania?"
"Yep," Mom said. "She was the first Hania Jakubowski. We named you after her as a reminder of where our family came from."
Hania couldn't imagine how scary it must have been to move to a new country. If her great-great-grandmother could do that, then she could at least get used to her new school--and she knew Jesus promised to be with her too. "Well," she said. "Maybe Hania Jakubowski isn't such a bad name after all."
-Kristin Beaven
How About You?
Does your name have a special meaning? Maybe your parents named you after someone as a reminder of what that person meant to them. God gave some people in the Bible special names to remind them of His promises--promises that also apply to you! When you face difficult times, remember that Jesus knows you by name and promises to always be with you.
Today's Key Verse:
No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham; for I have made you a father of many nations. (NKJV) (Genesis 17:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Remember God's promises
Bible Reading: Nehemiah 4:6-15
"Guess what? After class today, Logan trusted Jesus as his Savior!" Rayden excitedly told his family on the way home from church.
"That's great!" Dad exclaimed.
"Wonderful!" added Mom enthusiastically. "Your prayers have been answered."
But Rayden's sister Esme frowned. "Why doesn't God answer my prayers too?" she asked. "I pray for my friend Nisha, but I'm not sure it does any good."
"Don't be discouraged," said Dad. "Sometimes it takes a long time for a person to come to Christ."
"Yeah. I talked to Logan about my faith and answered questions he had about Jesus for more than a year before he wanted to come to church to learn more," Rayden reminded her.
Mom turned to Esme. "What kind of response do you get from Nisha when you talk to her about Jesus?" she asked.
"I don't know. I…I haven't really said much to her about Him," Esme admitted.
"Have you invited her to church or your Wednesday night Bible club?" Dad asked.
"Well, no," said Esme. "But I let her know I go. And I pray for her all the time!"
"Praying for her is very important," said Dad. "God is the only one who can change people's hearts, after all, not us. But He often uses us to help people learn about Jesus and bring them to Him. That means we need to be ready to do our part in helping someone know Jesus."
"That's right," said Mom. "Remember the Bible story of Nehemiah and the people of Israel building a wall around Jerusalem? When they heard their enemies were coming, they prayed--but they didn't just pray. They also prepared to fight. It's important to pray for Nisha, but there may be something else the Lord wants you to do in addition to praying."
Esme was silent for a while. When they arrived home, she jumped out of the car. "I want to text Nisha and invite her to come to Bible club on Wednesday. We're having a game night, and I think it would help me talk to her about Jesus."
Dad nodded. "Let's pray that Nisha will come--not only to church, but also to know Jesus as her Savior."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you praying for something--for someone's salvation, for money you need, or for better grades? Jesus tells us to bring all our concerns to Him, so keep praying! But also be ready to do something He wants you to do in that situation, such as talking to somebody about Jesus, mowing a lawn, or studying hard. Pray, and then be ready to act as you trust Him to answer your prayer.
Today's Key Verse:
We prayed to our God. And we put guards on the walls to watch day and night so that we could be ready to meet them. (ERV)
(Nehemiah 4:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Pray and be ready to act
Bible Reading: Philippians 1:6; 2:12-16
"I still can't get it!" Kylie exclaimed as she jumped into her mom's car. She'd just finished another rehearsal for a dance performance that would take place later that month.
"What's wrong?" Mom asked as she pulled into traffic and headed home.
Kylie sighed heavily. "We've been practicing this routine for two weeks, but there's still a tricky step sequence I fumble every time." Kylie watched trees go past her window. "Maybe I'll never get it."
"Learning new things takes time. I know you're working hard," Mom replied as they continued traveling down the road. A minute later, she asked, "See that house over there?"
"What house? Oh, the one that's still being built. Mom, it's not really a house yet. It's a bunch of wood and bricks--just materials," Kylie answered.
Mom slowed the car so they could gaze at the construction site a bit longer. "It's a work in progress, yes. But it takes time to build a house--to make something good and important. If we rush, we might not get the results we want," Mom explained.
"Are you really talking about my routine, Mom? Not just the house?" Kylie asked, grinning.
"That's right. I've watched you learn difficult dances. Give yourself time, keep practicing, and I'm confident you'll learn it."
Mom steered into the driveway. As they walked in the door, Kylie headed to the kitchen to help with dinner.
"Being patient with building something meaningful isn't just for houses and dance steps," Mom said as she took out a pan. "It's also something God tells us to do as we grow in Christ."
"What do you mean?" asked Kylie.
"When we put our faith in Jesus to receive forgiveness and begin a relationship with Him, His Spirit starts working in us, making us more like Jesus."
Kylie placed napkins on the table. "That takes time, right?"
"Yep," Mom said. "God doesn't rush in doing His good work in our lives. He has a purpose for us, and He's willing to take His time to accomplish it."
"That house we saw and my dance routine--they're not finished yet. But they're on their way," Kylie mused.
"Just like God's children," Mom finished.
-Allison Wilson Lee
How About You?
Do you sometimes get frustrated at not learning a new skill quickly? Do you feel discouraged when you make the same mistakes over and over? Remember that you are still growing and God is faithfully at work in you. He never gets in a hurry! God shows us patience as we grow, and in His power, we can be patient with ourselves too.
Today's Key Verse:
[Be] confident of this, that He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus. (NIV)
(Philippians 1:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Be patient as you grow
Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:5-11
"Ouch!" exclaimed Carter as he jumped off the porch swing. The rough wood had given him a sliver in his finger.
He found his mom in the kitchen. "I was coming to look for you," she said. "I was just informed that you've been teasing Hunter Zhang and calling him names. Is that true?"
"I…uh…Ethan and James started it," murmured Carter. He held up his finger. "Look, Mom. I got this from the porch swing. It hurts!"
"We'd better get that sliver out." Mom got a pair of tweezers. "Don't you think the injury you gave Hunter hurts even more than your finger does?" she asked as she gently worked on the sliver.
"I just teased him a little. I didn't hurt him!" Carter objected.
"Yes, you did," said Mom. "Your words and actions hurt him. It's like you gave him a different kind of sliver."
Mom succeeded in removing the tiny piece of wood from Carter's finger. She held it up in triumph.
"All right! Thanks!" Carter said. He started for the door.
"Hold on a minute," said Mom. "The rough wood on that swing needs sanding so it won't give anyone else a sliver, and we need to do something to help you avoid giving any more slivers to others. Your dad and I have talked with you about this problem before, and this time we'll have to do a little sanding on your actions. That means losing TV privileges for a few days."
"But, Mom!" Carter looked at his feet. "I'll tell Hunter I'm sorry. Isn't that enough?"
"That will help," said Mom. "But being sorry wasn't enough to help your finger, was it? If the finger started to fester, it would hurt much worse, and if your teasing festers in Hunter's mind and life, it will hurt him really bad." She put a hand on Carter's shoulder. "I know being disciplined isn't fun, but I'm doing it because I love you. The Bible says God disciplines His children out of love too. He's working in our lives to make us more like Jesus, and sometimes that requires correcting us so we'll think about our actions and how they affect others."
Carter sighed. "Okay," he said quietly. "I know how much slivers hurt, so I definitely don't want to give them to anyone else." -Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you have rough edges that give slivers to other people? Do you say unkind things? Refuse to share? Snub others? Perhaps your parents or other adults are working to help sand down those rough edges. Even though discipline isn't fun, remember that God often uses parents and others in His own correction. He disciplines us because He loves us, and as He works in our lives, He helps us show others the love of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
No discipline is enjoyable while it is happening--it's painful! But afterward there will be a peaceful harvest of right living for those who are trained in this way. (NLT) (Hebrews 12:11)
Today's Key Thought:
God disciplines His children
Bible Reading: Proverbs 17:17; Colossians 3:12-17
"Look there behind you, Mom," said Evie as she and her mother picked raspberries. "Down low. There are some berries you missed."
"Oh, I see them," said Mom. "They're nice ones." She bent to pick the berries.
"There are more in the bush behind those," Evie told her.
Mom looked toward the berries Evie was pointing out, but she shook her head. "No, those aren't ripe enough yet--but I see some hiding in the center of the bush you just finished."
Evie laughed as she turned to pick the berries Mom saw. "I guess we should pick each other's bushes." After a moment, she said, "Remember when Nayori and her mom used to come and pick raspberries with us?"
"Yes." Mom sighed. "How is Nayori doing since her parents got divorced?"
Evie frowned. "Not too good. She's always whining and saying she'd rather live with her mom than with her dad. I can't see why. After all, this way she's still in the same house and the same school--and her friends are all here."
"I guess it all depends on your viewpoint," Mom replied. "It's like these berries--we miss some ripe ones and think others are ready when they're not. It depends on what direction we see them from. We need to remember that people see things in life in different ways too."
Evie nodded slowly. "I guess so."
"You see Nayori's problems from a distance," Mom said. "From your viewpoint, there are good reasons for her to live with her dad. But don't forget that she can see things you can't see. From her viewpoint, being with her mom may outweigh other things. I'm sure Nayori misses her a lot."
"Yeah, I think she does," Evie replied. "Nayori used to say she could tell her mom anything."
"I think she needs understanding more than she needs criticism," Mom said. "Perhaps Jesus can use you to help her through this. He understands exactly what she's going through, and He'll help you be a good friend and show her His love and compassion."
Evie nodded thoughtfully. "I'll try to see the situation more from her viewpoint. Maybe…oops!" She pointed to a bush Mom had finished. "You missed some more, Mom," she said with a grin.
-Agnes Livezey
How About You?
Do you get annoyed when your friends talk about their troubles? Do you feel like things aren't as bad as they make them out to be? Remember that you're seeing their situation from a different viewpoint. Even if you don't understand everything they're going through, Jesus does, and He'll help you be kind and understanding like He is. Trust Him to help you show compassion and offer encouragement to friends who are struggling.
Today's Key Verse:
Give to Your servant an understanding heart. (NKJV) (1 Kings 3:9)
Today's Key Thought:
Be kind and understanding
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 1:26-32
Kayla watched as her dad herded two baby goats into the family's goat pen. They looked so cute as they started eagerly exploring their new surroundings, curious about all the other goats in the pen.
"Can I go in and pet them, Dad?" asked Kayla.
"Sure!" Dad said. "Just be careful not to startle them. These goats are sometimes called fainting goats because--"
Before Dad could finish his explanation, their dog Buster bounded into the yard and started barking excitedly at the new arrivals. Immediately, the baby goats stiffened their legs and fell over.
"Oh no!" exclaimed Kayla. "I think something's wrong with the baby goats!"
"They're fine," Dad reassured her as he calmed down Buster. "I was just going to say that these are called fainting goats because when they get startled, their legs stiffen and they tumble over. They don't really faint. They actually have a medical condition that causes their muscles to stay tense longer than usual when they get scared. That's why they fall."
Kayla hurried into the pen to check on the babies. Soon they relaxed and were back on their feet, roaming around the pen as usual. Kayla started feeding them grain pellets from her hand. "I know exactly how they feel! I felt like fainting when I had to give my speech in front of my whole class last week. I was so scared!"
Dad smiled. "I know you were extremely nervous, but you didn't let fear paralyze you."
"I asked God to help me," said Kayla. "When it was time to give my speech, I took a deep breath and said a quick prayer. I felt more confident walking up front because I knew God was with me."
"There are a lot of verses in the Bible reminding us not to be afraid because God is with us," Dad said. "It's okay to feel nervous and scared sometimes, but we don't want to let that stop us from doing what we need to do. Jesus promises to always be with us, so we never have to face any situation alone. We can have courage because He is with us even when we feel scared."
Kayla grinned. "I'll remember that the next time I feel like a fainting goat!"
-Kendra Angle
How About You?
Have you ever felt so afraid about a situation that you thought you couldn't go through with it? Maybe it was giving a speech, taking a test, going to a new school, or going to the doctor. God promises to be with us through every hard time. When you feel overwhelmed, remember that He has given you His Spirit, who is always with you. Trust Him for help and courage when you feel afraid.
Today's Key Verse:
For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. (NKJV) (2 Timothy 1:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God when you're afraid
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
"Grandma, why do you have so many different kinds of bird feeders?" Kenneth asked as he and his grandmother filled the bird feeders in her yard. "Wouldn't one be enough?"
"Well, Ken, if every bird were the same, one kind of bird feeder would be enough. But God, in His wisdom and creativity, made all kinds of birds for us to enjoy, and He created them with different needs and preferences. Finches, for instance, usually like to perch on bags filled with black thistle seed. Bluebirds like to feed from trays or dishes. And hummingbirds like the sweet sugar nectar we fill their feeders with."
"Wow," said Kenneth. "That's really cool!" He went to his school library the next day to check out some books on birds.
Later that week, Kenneth and his grandmother discussed the pastor's sermon on their way home from church. "What did he mean when he said we need to tailor the gospel to meet our neighbor's needs?" Kenneth asked.
"Well, remember when we were filling the bird feeders and talked about each bird's needs?" asked Grandma. "Sharing the gospel with our friends is a lot like feeding birds--you can't just throw out one kind of seed and assume that's what all of them can eat. Just like you need to learn how God created each bird and what they like to eat, you have to listen and learn what's important to your friends--such as what they like to do or what their fears and hurts are. Are all your friends the same?"
"No," Ken said. "Some do sports, and some like band or theater. Some have divorced parents, or someone in their family is really sick and in the hospital."
"Exactly," said Grandma. "You can share the good news of Jesus, which never changes, by taking an interest in the things your friends like or where they are hurting. Remember how Jesus often taught in parables? He shared God's truth through stories about farmers, housewives, and shepherds, because that was what people knew."
"I get it!" Kenneth said. "Tomorrow I'm going to tell my friend who's feeling lonely that Jesus wants to be his friend forever."
"Good for you, Ken! Now let's go fill some bird feeders."
-Joni Spears
How About You?
How can you share the gospel with your friends? Even though the good news of Jesus never changes, the way you share it might. Do you have a friend who likes sports? Tell them Jesus is the best coach they could ever have. Do you know someone who's going through a hard time? Let them know Jesus cares simply by listening to them and pointing them to the hope He offers. When you know what people need, you can share Jesus in a way that speaks to them.
Today's Key Verse:
I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. (NIV) (1 Corinthians 9:22)
Today's Key Thought:
Spread the good news
Bible Reading: Luke 15:1-7
"Hey, where did Ellen go?" Josie looked around the dining hall. She and her fellow campers had just finished supper. "She was right here a minute ago."
Bianca looked around too. "I don't see her," she said. "Actually, I don't see any of the counselors! Where did everyone go?"
"Can I please have everyone's attention!" The voice of Mr. Paul, the camp director, came over the loudspeaker. "Perhaps you've noticed that your counselors are missing. They've gone into hiding, and you have one hour to find them! Everyone is to meet outside the dining hall when I ring the bell."
Bianca and Josie scrambled out of the dining hall with everyone else, eager to search through the bushes, under canoes, and behind the archery targets. But their excitement soon turned to frustration as other kids found their counselors, but there was still no sign of Ellen.
An hour later, Mr. Paul rang the bell, signaling the time for the kids and the counselors who had been found to report to the dining hall. None of the girls in Josie's cabin had found Ellen.
Mr. Paul checked to make sure all the kids were back, and then he rang the bell a second time, signaling counselors who hadn't been found to come out of hiding. Josie and Bianca were astonished to see Ellen pop out of a large cardboard box that was standing next to a dumpster outside the dining hall.
"We must have walked right past that box a dozen times," Josie moaned. "I never thought someone might be hiding in there!"
When the girls in Josie's cabin gathered for devotions that evening, Ellen talked about the counselor hunt. "Maybe you've been searching for God and it feels a lot like today's counselor hunt," she said. "Maybe you don't even know where to look because everything seems hopeless. But you know what? God isn't hiding. The Bible says Jesus has already come to find us! We're the ones who were lost, not God. Jesus came to earth and died for our sins so we could stop hiding from Him and be forgiven. If you've been searching for God, He wants you to know that He came to find you. Put your trust in Jesus."
-Deborah S. Marett
How About You?
Are you searching for God? Are you having a hard time finding Him in this crazy, sad world? You don't need to search for Him any longer, because He came to this crazy, sad world to find you. He became human and died and rose again so you could be saved. Trust in Him today so you can have hope and be with Him forever. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
For the Son of Man [Jesus] came to seek and save those who are lost. (NLT) (Luke 19:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus came to find you
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:12-27
Ana and her older cousin, Justine, were at the zoo for the day. "Look at the lemurs!" Ana pointed at a large forested enclosure where little animals with long striped tails hopped from branch to branch.
"Wow, that lemur is an acrobat!" Justine laughed. "God's creation is amazing."
"Yeah," Ana agreed. "It's so much fun to see all these different animals."
"Those lemurs remind me of the talent show at your school last week," Justine said. "Those girls who did gymnastics were amazing."
Ana sighed. "I guess so."
"What's wrong? Didn't you have fun seeing all those kids sharing their talents?"
"I just really wish I could have done something cool in the talent show." Ana shrugged. "Those kids could play instruments and dance and do all these amazing things. I'm ordinary and boring."
"But you created the talent show posters!" Justine exclaimed. "Those exciting posters were what made me want to watch the show."
"Yeah, but it's not the same!" Ana protested. "I just draw pictures. I'm not talented."
Justine bit her lip, thinking. Then she asked, "Do you think that lemurs say to parrots, 'I wish I could sing like you?'"
"No!" Ana exclaimed. "Lemurs are so cool! They're good at leaping between trees."
"And do you think the camels are jealous of the lemurs' jumping skills?"
Ana laughed. "Of course not! Camels can survive for more than a week without water. That's perfect for the desert where they live."
"Right!" Justine nodded. "That's because God custom-made camels to survive in the desert. Even though animals have different abilities from each other, God gave them those skills for their specific roles in His creation."
Ana smiled. "I think I understand. You're trying to show me that God made me good at drawing for His special purposes."
"The Bible says that God made everyone wonderfully. He doesn't make mistakes. So even though you might not be able to dance or sing, God made you good at drawing for a reason. Maybe that could be to draw pictures to encourage people and remind them of Jesus's love. Everyone is important in God's kingdom, and you can celebrate other people's talents knowing that God made them one-of-a-kind."
Ana smiled. "Maybe I'll start by drawing some of the animals here."
-Abby Ciona
How About You?
Do you ever compare yourself to others or feel like you're not talented enough? Just like God gave animals special abilities, God gives us unique gifts, skills, and interests so we can use them to show our love for Him and share Jesus's love with others. Everyone is important in His kingdom, and because of that, we can celebrate each other's talents!
Today's Key Verse:
Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. (NIV) (1 Peter 4:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Use the gifts God gave you
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:1-12
"Do we have everything?" asked Dad as the family piled into the car to leave for their camping trip. "How about the flashlight? Did somebody pack it?"
"I did," said Kegan. "I took the one with rechargeable batteries."
"Great idea," said Dad. "All right--here we go!"
That evening after supper, Kegan pulled the flashlight out of his bag. "Let's go, Ryder," he called to his little brother. "Let's go see what's in the snack machine at the lodge. Okay, Dad?"
Dad nodded, so the boys took off, following the path through the trees. The flashlight beam flickered and grew dim. "Great," muttered Kegan. "Whoever used this flashlight last didn't recharge the batteries. It's almost out of power."
After getting a snack, Kegan switched the flashlight on. They started back to their campsite, but the light was too dim to be useful. Ryder hesitated. "I'm scared," he whimpered. "I don't like the dark. There could be a bear in the woods."
"Don't be ridiculous," said Kegan impatiently. "Come on. Let's go." He stalked off into the darkness.
"Wait for me!" Ryder's wails filled the night.
"Ryder, be quiet!" said Kegan as he hurried back to his brother. He grabbed Ryder's hand and pulled him along as they made their way back.
"What happened?" asked Dad, seeing that Ryder was afraid. "Didn't you use the flashlight?"
"Nobody recharged the batteries, and it gave out," Kegan grumbled. "And Ryder's a baby."
"I see," said Dad. He frowned. "I'm afraid the flashlight isn't the only thing that gave out. Your patience did too. I think you need to be recharged."
"Me?" asked Kegan. "What do you mean? How can I be recharged?"
"By remembering that Jesus gives you the power to be patient with others," said Dad. "One way to do that is by reading His Word, the Bible. It helps recharge us by reminding us we belong to Jesus and have His Holy Spirit inside us, helping us show others His love. Of course, since our flashlight doesn't work and our phones have limited power, we can't read the Bible tonight, so who can remember some verses?" Everyone started reciting verses they had memorized.
"I think we're feeling recharged now, don't you?" Mom said with a smile.
"Yep," said Ryder. Kegan nudged him and agreed.
-Violet E. Nesdoly
How About You?
Do you recharge by reading God's Word? It tells us of Jesus's love for us and what He did to save us. He reminds us that He has given those who trust in Him the power to love others and do what's right. Let God's Word recharge you and be the light that guides you down the path of life as you walk with Jesus each day.
Today's Key Verse:
Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (NKJV)
(Psalm 119:105)
Today's Key Thought:
The Bible helps recharge you
Bible Reading: Psalm 27:11; Proverbs 5:1-6; 7:24-27
Suzanna couldn't wait to visit her grandparents' farm. She looked forward to helping Grandpa with the animals and making pear cobbler and jam with Grandma. And at the end of each day, she and Grandma would enjoy a long walk in the shady pear orchard. Grandma always said, "Heaven must feel like a cool orchard on a hot summer afternoon."
On the day she arrived at the farm, Suzanna said, "Grandma, let's go walk through the pear trees."
"I'm sorry, honey, but I can't. I had knee surgery last month, remember? The orchard path is full of roots and ruts. If I fall or even stumble, the doctor said I could reinjure my knee and end up in a wheelchair."
"How about a short, slow walk?" Suzanna suggested. "I'll stay close."
"No, honey, it wouldn't be wise for me. You go ahead."
So Suzanna walked the orchard path alone, thinking about her grandmother's words.
After dinner, she asked, "Grandma, if something isn't wise, does that mean it's foolish?"
"Sometimes. But wise also means that you know what you should do, and you do it. My doctor told me that, to be safe, I must avoid uneven ground. So I know it's wise for me to stay off the orchard path."
"This morning I read a Bible verse about walking on an unstable path."
"Oh? Let's look at what you read," said Grandma, opening her Bible.
"It's in Proverbs 5," said Suzanna. "It starts by warning us not to be like the immoral woman, then it says, 'Lest you ponder her path of life--her ways are unstable.'"
Grandma nodded. "That verse tells us not to wander away to where we might stumble and fall into sin. That's why we need to be wise and listen to God. His Holy Spirit gives us wisdom and guides us in walking the right path."
"But what if we don't listen and go down the wrong path?" asked Suzanna.
"Then we should confess our wrongs to Jesus. Instead of stumbling our way through life, we can walk wisely because He's always there to forgive us and help us."
"I get it, Grandma. It's wise to stay away from the wrong path." Suzanna smiled. "I'm glad you didn't let me talk you into taking foolish chances."
-Teresa Ambord
How About You?
Have you ever wanted to do something unwise? We all have. It can be tempting to veer from the right path instead of doing what we know we should. That's why it's important to walk wisely and stay away from any stumbling blocks that lead to sin. If you know Jesus, all your wrongs have been forgiven, and you have His Spirit to guide you and give you wisdom. Trust Him to help you stay on the right path.
Today's Key Verse:
I have taught you in the way of wisdom; I have led you in right paths. (NKJV) (Proverbs 4:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Walk wisely in your life
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-34
Ella stood absolutely still when she noticed a pair of robins surveying the crook of a branch in the maple tree outside her bedroom window. Over the next few days, she saw them come with twigs and bits of leaves they had gathered to make their nest. Ella giggled when one of them brought back a piece of ribbon it had found.
Each day, Ella observed the progress on the nest, and one morning she saw an egg in it. Soon four sky-blue eggs lay in the nest. When the tiny birds finally broke from their shells, Ella excitedly shared the news with her family. Six-year-old Noah seemed especially interested in watching the parent birds care for the babies.
One afternoon, lightning flashed and…CRASH! A terrible thunderstorm erupted. "I'm scared!" said Noah. "Do you think the baby birds are scared too?"
"Let's go check on them," said Ella, and they hurried to her room. Noah snuggled against her as they looked out and saw that the branch holding the nest was swaying back and forth.
"Look," said Ella, pointing to the nest. "See how that mother bird spreads her wings to protect her babies? She covers them so they won't get hurt. Isn't that cool? They trust her to keep them safe. I don't think they're afraid at all."
"I get scared sometimes," Noah said. "I'm afraid of the mean kids at school, and sometimes I'm afraid of the dark. Big dogs scare me too."
Ella nodded sympathetically. "Everyone's afraid of something. Sometimes I'm afraid of what others might think of me, or I worry about my grades." She smiled. "But do you know what God uses as an example of how He cares for us?" Noah shook his head. "I learned a verse about it," said Ella. "God says that like a mother bird's wings cover and protect her babies, He protects us. So we can trust Him. Okay?"
Noah smiled. "Okay."
Ella nodded as she herself suddenly realized the truth of God's Word. "God is with us, and no storm is stronger than His love for us. No matter what happens, we're safe in Jesus, who died to give us eternal life."
There was a flash of lightning and a clap of thunder, but Noah didn't even flinch. "Thank you, God, for taking care of us," he whispered.
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Are you afraid of the dark? Of death? Or that somebody won't like you? The Bible often uses word pictures to illustrate God's truths. The way a mother bird protects her babies when danger threatens is a picture of how carefully and completely God watches over you in all of life's storms. Whenever you feel afraid, remember that Jesus is with you. Trust Him.
Today's Key Verse:
He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge. (NKJV) (Psalm 91:4)
Today's Key Thought:
God cares for you
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:22-24; Colossians 3:12-13
"Cal, you've worn that WWJD bracelet for years and years, haven't you?" Everly asked her older brother, eyeing his bracelet with distaste.
"I got it the first year I went to camp," Cal replied. "It used to be blue with 'WWJD' spelled out in white letters. They told us that whenever we saw those letters we should ask ourselves, 'What would Jesus do?'"
"Well, if Jesus had that bracelet, I think He'd take it off," Everly said. "You know the whole WWJD trend is pretty much over now. Mom said when she was a kid they used to see those letters on all kinds of stuff. But you don't see them much anymore--if ever."
"I guess that's true," said Cal. "But wearing this has helped me. Sometimes just when I was getting ready to do something wrong, I'd see the bracelet and think, No, Jesus wouldn't do that."
"That's good, but times change," said Everly. "I think it's time to get rid of that old thing."
Cal twisted the bracelet around his wrist. "These letters have always been a good reminder to do the right thing. But…" He grinned at his sister as he pulled off the old, faded bracelet. "There! Does that make you feel better?"
"Yes. Only…" Everly hesitated. "If it helped you so much, maybe you should keep wearing it after all."
Cal shook his head. "I really don't need to wear it anymore."
"Think so?" Everly laughed. "Well, if you start getting into trouble with it off, don't blame me!"
Cal smiled. "I won't, because I have something better to wear now--in fact, it's something I've had ever since I first trusted in Jesus at camp all those years ago. The bracelet just helped me remember. When I trusted Jesus as my Savior, He made me a new person, and He gave me the Holy Spirit, who is making me more like Him. Pastor Tim talked about the Bible verse that says to 'put on the new self,' remember? He said that means living in a way that reflects who I am in Jesus. I don't need a bracelet to do what's right because I have God's Spirit living inside of me."
Everly grinned. "I agree. The new self is much better than the old bracelet!"
-Dalan Decker
How About You?
Have you ever seen the letters WWJD printed on something? Those letters stand for "What would Jesus do?" It used to be trendy to have them on bracelets and other items, but like all trends, that one has faded away. However, if you know Jesus, you don't need a bracelet or anything else to help you act like Him because you have His Spirit inside you! Put on your new self and live in a way that reflects Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:24)
Today's Key Thought:
Live in a way that reflects Jesus
Bible Reading: Proverbs 15:1-2; Matthew 15:10-11, 17-20
Tara and her friends, Maddie and Eve, sat at a wooden picnic table overlooking the sandy beach of Lake Monroe. The girls had been swimming for hours, and their stomachs were growling.
"I'm starving!" exclaimed Eve. She pulled a bag of chips, a ham sub, a slice of cake, and a soda out of her lunch bag.
"Me too!" Maddie had two bologna, mayo, and cheese sandwiches, a large bag of corn chips, and a candy bar. She was already sipping on a can of grape soda.
Tara placed her spinach and egg salad, whole wheat crackers, and an apple on the table. She had a bottle of water to drink.
"You're eating junk food," Tara told her friends. "You both should eat better and take care of your bodies like I do."
Maddie and Eve both stopped eating mid-bite and stared at Tara. "What do you mean?" asked Eve.
Maddie looked angry. "She means we're fat, not skinny Minnies like her."
"That's not what I meant!" Tara felt bad she had hurt her friends' feelings. She tried to explain how she had been learning about nutrition, but Maddie and Eve wouldn't listen.
On the way home, Tara told her mom what happened. "I just told them what they put in their bodies matters. Now they're both mad!"
"I'm sure they'll forgive you," said Mom. "But you know, Tara, what goes into our bodies isn't the most important thing."
"It isn't?" asked Tara. "What is?"
"The Bible tells us that the words that come out of our mouths are more important than anything that goes into our mouths. Words reflect what is in the heart."
Tara wiped a tear from her cheek. "I guess my heart wasn't being very loving, was it?"
Mom smiled. "We all need to think about how our words might affect others before we speak. Trust Jesus to help you do that. He's put His love in your heart, and He will help you show that love to others through your words."
Tara nodded. "From now on, I'll be more careful about what comes out of my mouth than what goes in it."
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Do you ever speak without thinking first? Do you ever consider how your words might make others feel? We may not intend to hurt someone's feelings, but if we aren't paying attention to the words that come out of our mouths, those words can cause damage. Trust the Lord to help you guard your tongue and show others the love He's put in your heart through your words.
Today's Key Verse:
It's not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth. (CSB) (Matthew 15:11)
Today's Key Thought:
Think before you speak
Bible Reading: Psalm 34:8-10; 84:11; James 1:17
Cruising into the driveway on her bike, Zoey waved at her dad. "I love my new bike!" she exclaimed as she hopped off. "I never really thought I'd get such a great gift for my birthday!" She gave her dad a hug. "Dad, you're the best! You knew just what I wanted. It's even the perfect color!"
Dad chuckled. "I know how to take a hint. How many times did I hear you talk about the cool bike you found online? And aren't you the one who left a picture of that very bike taped to my bathroom mirror? I believe you even circled the color you preferred."
Zoey laughed. "I guess I was pretty obvious. I assumed you wouldn't know what I wanted unless I told you. Besides, I figured it never hurts to ask."
"Well, I'm glad I could give you what you asked for," said Dad. "But what if you had asked for a new car? Do you think I'd have gotten that for you?"
"No way! I'm not even old enough to drive yet."
"You're right. I love you, Zoey, but I won't always give you everything you ask for," Dad said. "Neither will God. I know how disappointed you were when you weren't chosen to be on the gymnastics team, especially since you had prayed about it."
"I know, and I still don't understand why God said no," Zoey replied. "I really wanted that spot on the team."
"Because I'm your father and I love you, I'll only give you those gifts I believe are best for you," Dad told her. "God--your heavenly Father--loves you and gives good gifts too. When He doesn't answer your prayer exactly the way you ask Him to, it's because He knows something else is better for you."
"I guess I'm learning that." Zoey sighed. "I sure have a lot to learn, don't I?"
"We all do," said Dad. "I find it helps me to remember that God has already given us the best gift of all. Jesus died for us so we could become God's children, and He wants us to bring our requests to Him in prayer. He may not answer them all the way we ask, but we can trust Him to do what's best, because God loves to give His children good gifts!"
-Brenda Decker
How About You?
Do you sometimes wonder why God doesn't give you what you ask for? When that happens, do you feel like you might as well not pray at all? Remember that God loves you and knows what's best for you. He wants you to come to Him with your requests, but that doesn't mean He'll always give you what you want. Even when you don't understand His reasons, trust Him. He loves to give good gifts!
Today's Key Verse:
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father. (CSB) (James 1:17)
Today's Key Thought:
God gives good gifts
Bible Reading: Luke 19:1-10
"Hey, guys, I, uh…I invited Hayden to join us," Ben told his friends as they set up tents to camp out in his backyard. "He said he'd think about it."
"You're kidding!" Liam paused to stare at Ben. "Why'd you do that? He always acts so tough!"
"And he uses bad language," said Elijah. "Why would you even want him to come?"
"Maybe if some of us are nice to him, he'll learn that God isn't just a swear word," said Ben. "Besides, it's not like we're perfect--we're all sinners, but Jesus saved us."
Liam shook his head. "Hayden is hopeless. He's not gonna change."
The boys had a great time that night eating hot dogs, chips, watermelon, and sleeping in their tents. But Hayden didn't come.
As the year passed, Ben continued to be friendly toward Hayden. "I finally got Hayden to come to vacation Bible school," Ben told his dad as they worked in the backyard the following summer. "But he still acts as tough as ever. The guys think he's hopeless. Are they right?"
Dad shook his head. "With Jesus, there is no such thing as hopeless. He's able to change anyone."
Ben pointed to a fairly large plant growing among the weeds near the fence. "Look, Dad. That looks like a watermelon vine." A minute later, he exclaimed, "It is! There's a tiny melon on it. It must have started growing from the seeds of that watermelon we ate when my friends and I camped out here last summer!"
As Ben spoke, someone called to him from the sidewalk. He looked up and saw Hayden standing there, so he walked over to chat.
"I was just wondering…um…that Bible story the teacher told us in VBS today--I didn't get some of it," Hayden said hesitantly. "Could you explain it to me some more?"
"Sure!" said Ben. "I'll get us some lemonade and we can talk on the porch."
After Hayden left, Ben excitedly told his dad about their conversation.
"It sounds like the seed of God's Word is finally taking root in Hayden's heart, just like that watermelon seed took root in our yard," Dad said with a smile. "It took a long time, but no one is hopeless as far as God is concerned."
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Do you know someone who seems to be a hopeless case--hopeless as far as ever coming to Jesus? Nothing is impossible with God. Keep praying for your unsaved friends. Invite them to church, talk about Jesus, and show His love in your words and actions. Jesus changed Zacchaeus's heart in today's Bible reading, and He changed your heart when you trusted in Him. He can change your friends' hearts too.
Today's Key Verse:
With God all things are possible. (NKJV) (Mark 10:27)
Today's Key Thought:
No one is hopeless
Bible Reading: Isaiah 40:28-31
"I'm tired from all this walking," Caleb groaned. He was hiking with his family in the mountains of British Columbia in Canada. "I'm ready for a break."
"Don't worry, we're almost at the lookout," Caleb's mom announced.
In a few minutes, the family reached a platform that looked out over the forested valley. "We can see everything from up here!" Dad exclaimed.
Suddenly Caleb spotted a group of huge birds with white heads perched in a pine tree. "Look!" Caleb shouted and pointed to the tree. "There are bald eagles in that tree! A whole family of them!"
"Those are impressive birds," his dad agreed.
Mom pointed to a sign on the railing of the platform. "There's a sign with facts about the eagles." She began to read aloud. "Did you know that when a bald eagle stretches out its wings, the distance from one wingtip to the other can be more than two meters wide? That's over seven feet!"
"Wow, that's huge!" Caleb grinned and stretched out his arms. "My wingspan isn't even close to that."
Mom continued reading the sign. "It says here that eagles can fly for hours without having to land and rest."
"That's crazy," Caleb said. "How can eagles fly for that long without getting tired?"
"The eagles don't just fly, they soar," Mom explained. "When they soar, they rely on the wind currents and let the wind carry them." She paused, thinking. "You know, it reminds me of one of my favorite Bible passages in Isaiah. It says that even young people get tired."
"Yeah, I definitely do!" Caleb agreed. "I'm tired after that long hike."
Mom continued, "But those who put their hope in Jesus and trust in Him will find strength in Him so they can soar like eagles without being tired."
"And that's more than just strength to go for a long walk," Dad added. "When we trust in Jesus and remember how He saved us from our sins and gave us a future with Him and eternal life, we have hope and strength to persevere through any challenge in life."
"Wow," Caleb said. "That's even better than being able to fly like eagles."
-Abby Ciona
How About You?
Do you ever feel tired or discouraged? When you feel down and weak, remember what Jesus has done for you--He died for our sins and rose to life again, defeating sin and death so we can live with Him forever. Jesus has overcome the world, and He will never leave us. Put your hope in Him, and rely on His strength to carry you through every challenge you face.
Today's Key Verse:
But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. (NIV) (Isaiah 40:31)
Today's Key Thought:
Rely on God's strength
Bible Reading: 1 John 5:9-13
"Mom," said Everest, "can I walk to the store with Mrs. Kopp? I can help carry her groceries home." Mrs. Kopp was an elderly neighbor Everest often helped.
Mom laughed. "How kind of you," she teased, knowing Mrs. Kopp usually treated Everest to an ice cream cone on the way to the store.
As Everest and Mrs. Kopp walked along, he chatted with her about his summer plans. "I hope you won't be too busy for vacation Bible school," said Mrs. Kopp, smiling at her young friend. "Tell me, Everest, are you a Christian?" she asked as they reached the ice cream shop.
Everest shrugged. "I sure hope so," he replied. "I guess I am." He chose a double-dip, chocolate-fudge ice cream cone. "Thank you, Mrs. Kopp."
As they were leaving, Everest's friend Kai came in. He grinned when he saw Everest's cone. "So you got chocolate ice cream today, huh?"
To Everest's surprise, Mrs. Kopp answered for him. "He sure hopes so." Both boys gave her a strange look. "He guesses so, at any rate." Kai shrugged and turned his attention to choosing a flavor.
"Why did you say that, Mrs. Kopp?" Everest asked as they left. He took a big lick of ice cream. "I have chocolate ice cream--no hoping or guessing about it."
Mrs. Kopp chuckled. "That was pretty silly of me, wasn't it? Almost as silly as you saying you hoped and guessed you were a Christian." She paused while Everest thought about that.
"Everest," Mrs. Kopp continued, "when you have something--like an ice cream cone or salvation in Jesus--you don't need to hope or guess you have it. You either have it, or you don't. The question is…do you believe Jesus is God's Son and that He loves you and died and rose again to save you? Do you trust Him as your Savior?"
"Last summer I asked Him to forgive me and save me," Everest answered thoughtfully. "But sometimes I feel like maybe I should do something more."
"If you trust in Jesus, God has forgiven you and you have eternal life--no doubt about it," Mrs. Kopp assured him. "God is faithful and His Word is true. Salvation doesn't depend on how you feel or what you do, but on our Almighty God."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you ever have doubts about your salvation? Do you hope your sins have been forgiven? You can know for sure. It does not depend on your efforts or on how you feel. Jesus paid the price to save you. Trust Him as your Savior. God is faithful and will keep His promise to forgive. He will cleanse you from all your sin and give you eternal life. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have God's Son does not have life. (NLT) (1 John 5:12)
Today's Key Thought:
You can know you're saved
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:13-16; 2 Corinthians 3:1-6; 5:11-21
Rose squealed in excitement when her Mom handed her a letter. "It's from my new pen pal!" Rose had been waiting for weeks to hear back from her pen pal. Her homeschool group had joined a pen pal service where they paired up kids from different states. "She's from Ohio--that's not too far from Michigan," Rose noted as she ripped the envelope open.
Curling up on the couch, Rose poured over every word of the letter. "Mom, she's the perfect pen pal! Her name is Lily--and get this, our birthdays are only one day apart! Lily even likes fashion, and I didn't even tell her I do too! I can't wait to send her some drawings of the outfits I've created."
"Sounds like God matched you both up perfectly," Mom responded with a smile.
When Rose placed her letter to Lily in the mailbox the following day, she was contemplative. "You know, Mom, I've been thinking about something. I learned so much about Lily from just one letter. In one of my devotions this week, I was reading about how we can be letters that people read in the way we live our lives. I wonder what people read when they look at my life."
"That's a tough thing to think about, but necessary," Mom said as they turned to walk back home. "In the book of Second Corinthians, Paul was writing to the church in Corinth. He wanted to remind them of the new people they were in Christ. Remember how before Jesus came, there were all those rules of the old covenant the people were required to follow?"
"Yes, but when Jesus died on the cross and rose again, He changed everything," Rose recalled. "He gives those who trust in Him His goodness and His Holy Spirit, who is always with us."
Mom nodded. "Paul told the believers in Corinth that they were now able to show others a glimpse of the new covenant by the way they lived their lives. This better covenant wasn't written on stone like the Ten Commandments, but written on their hearts."
"Living letters!" Rose skipped down the dirt road. "I'm not perfect, but I know Jesus. I'm going to pray that when people look at my life, they will see Him."
-Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Do you have a pen pal you like to write to? If so, you know the excitement of getting a letter from them. Imagine how excited the recipients of Paul's letters were! Paul reminded the followers of Christ in Corinth that their lives were like letters to those around them. Trust Jesus to help you live in a way so others will see His goodness shining through you. You are a living letter from Him.
Today's Key Verse:
You show that you are a letter from Christ…written not with ink but with the Spirit of the living God, not on tablets of stone but on tablets of human hearts. (NIV) (2 Corinthians 3:3)
Today's Key Thought:
Be a living letter for Jesus
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:14-29
Archer wiped his hands on his shorts. Ladies and gentlemen, the bases are loaded. He gripped his bat tightly, pretending he was in the middle of a ball game. It's up to Archer to bring in the runners to win the game. He took a practice swing.
"Archer!" His mother's voice interrupted his thoughts. "Time to read a little."
Archer groaned. It was summer, but Archer's teacher had suggested he read a little each day. "He has an amazing imagination," she had said, "but he prefers to imagine stories and doesn't seem to want to read them. He needs to improve his reading skills."
Archer went inside and sat down with a book, but he didn't read. He watched a fly climb up a wall. The climber struggled up the mountainside… he thought, watching the fly.
"Hey, Mom," Archer called after a minute, "I should really go clean my room."
"No, Archer, you need to do your reading," Mom replied.
"I'm a hostage here," Archer muttered as he turned back to the book. His imagination took over again. Forced to sit still for hours, the brave hostage stared into the stony darkness.
Archer sighed and read two lines. Then… "I'll take out the trash," he told his mom. "Or wash dishes for you."
"Archer…" Mom sat down next to him. "You always loved stories, so I don't know why you never want to read them."
"If I knew how to write them, I'd have the people in them do lots of exciting things," Archer said.
"I'm sure you would. Your imagination is so great. God has given you that talent."
"You mean my imagination is a talent?" Archer asked in surprise. "You think it would help me write good stories?" He paused. "That would be cool!"
Mom nodded. "God has given each of us gifts. We can use them to point others to His goodness and the love and forgiveness He shows us through Jesus. Writing stories is one way you could share the imagination God's given you with others, but you need to develop your gift in order to do that--and the more you read, the more you'll learn how to write your own stories."
Archer grinned at his mother. "Okay. I'll try reading this again."
-Nancy G. Hill
How About You?
What are you good at? Everyone has things they love to do or have a natural gift for. Your talent could be writing, helping other people, singing, teaching, or many other things. God gave you those gifts so you could use them to point others to Him. Think about what your talents might be--it might help to ask a parent or other adult what they think--and then develop your gifts and use them for God's glory.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not neglect the gift that is in you. (NKJV) (1 Timothy 4:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Develop your talents
Bible Reading: Mark 8:34-38; Hebrews 12:1-3
"Hey, Jude!" Rowan called as he rode by on his bike. "Where were you this morning? I came by your house to see if you wanted to shoot hoops at the park, but you weren't home."
"Oh, um…I was out," Jude mumbled. He didn't want to tell Rowan he'd been attending vacation Bible school at his church. Jude enjoyed it, but he wasn't sure Rowan would understand and thought he might laugh at him.
"Are you free tomorrow?" Rowan asked. "My mom said she'd take us to the beach."
"Well, um…I'm gonna be busy again tomorrow," Jude stammered. Vacation Bible school lasted all week, and Jude would be going each day.
"Okay. Wednesday then?" asked Rowan.
"Well…uhhh…" Jude coughed. "I'm…I'm busy all week."
Rowan frowned. "Every day? No one goes out that much! How can you be so busy?"
Again Jude hesitated. He could imagine Rowan's response to the news that he'd be going to church every day. Then Jude thought of something. Here I am going to a summer program at church that's meant to help us reach out to kids who don't know Jesus, but I don't even have enough nerve to admit to one of my best friends that I'm going to church! Jude knew something was wrong with that picture. Jesus was willing to suffer and die on the cross for me, he thought, but I won't even risk being laughed at for Him? Jude took a deep breath. He knew what he had to do.
"Rowan," he began, "we're, uh…we're having vacation Bible school at my church this week. That's why I'm busy."
Rowan stared at him. "You're going to school…at church…during summer vacation?" He frowned. "And you don't mind?"
"No--I like it!" Jude replied. "It's not like normal school. We play games and sing songs and hear stories about Jesus from the Bible. I think you might like it too. How about it? Want to come with me tomorrow?"
"Well…" Rowan shrugged. "Sure, why not. I'll check with my mom to see if she's okay with it."
"Great!" Jude grinned. "I really hope you can come."
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Do your friends know you go to church? Do you tell them about Jesus? Or are you afraid to let them know what you believe? Jesus willingly went to the cross to take the punishment for our sins so we could have eternal life with Him. People need to know the good news of Jesus so they can be saved. Don't be ashamed to talk about Him. Look for opportunities to tell your friends about your relationship with Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes. (NLT) ( Romans 1:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Tell others about Jesus
Bible Reading: Genesis 1:29-31; Psalm 34:8-10
"Ouch! Mom, that's too tight." Renee pulled away from her mother.
"I'm sorry, Renee. But if your ponytail isn't tight, it might not stay in. You don't want it in your face, do you?"
Renee sighed as she let her mom finish doing her hair. "Why are we going to Aunt Rose's house today?"
"Because your aunt asked if we would like to help her in her garden. I thought it might be fun for you. Now let's get going before we're late."
Much to Renee's surprise, her aunt's garden was a lot of fun. Aunt Rose taught her how to pick green beans and raspberries. Renee also got to see all the other things her aunt was growing that were not being picked today: melons, sweet corn, carrots, and more produce.
When Renee's mom left to go pick up a pizza for dinner, Renee stayed to help her aunt prepare the green beans.
"It's very easy to snap green beans," Aunt Rose told her. "It just requires a little bit of time. See, you take one of the green beans and snap off one end, then the other." She demonstrated. "Now you try."
Renee snapped a bean like she had been shown. "Just like this?"
Aunt Rose smiled. "Exactly like that! After we snap them all, we'll cook them and eat them with our pizza and fruit. Well, if there's any fruit left."
Renee blushed as she put a raspberry in her mouth. "Sorry. It's just all so good!"
"It is, isn't it? It's a great reminder of God's goodness."
"God's goodness? What does His goodness have to do with fruit?"
"God shows us goodness in many ways. One of those ways is by providing food for us. That's why I like to pray before I eat--to thank God for His goodness in providing me with food. It helps me remember all the other ways He shows His goodness and provides for us--like sending His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins and give us eternal life."
Renee glanced at the bowl of fruit sitting beside her. "I hadn't thought about that." She popped another raspberry into her mouth. "He must show extra goodness to us by making the food taste so good!"
-Kimberly Brokish
How About You?
Have you ever helped with a garden? It's amazing to see God's goodness in how He provides for us. He made the soil so we could grow plants in it and have food. How else does God provide for us? In His goodness, He gives us food, water, and shelter. He also provides salvation to us through Jesus, who died and rose again to save us from sin. Next time you eat, remember to thank God for His goodness.
Today's Key Verse:
Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. (NIV) (Psalm 34:8)
Today's Key Thought:
God shows goodness by providing for us
Bible Reading: Luke 17:11-19
"Wow!" Roman exclaimed as he unwrapped a video game he got for his birthday. "I've been wanting this!" He'd also gotten many other things, including a baseball cap, money from his grandparents, a sweatshirt, and a jacket. "This was my best birthday ever!"
"Here's one more package for you," said Mom as she handed Roman a small box.
"Another one?" Roman was surprised. Quickly he ripped the paper off. "A box of stationery? For me?" He frowned. "This looks like something for a girl!"
"It's a box of thank-you notes," said Mom. "Before you do anything else, you need to sit down and write thank-you notes to Grandma and Grandpa Jackson for the money they sent and to Grandma Peters for the sweatshirt."
"Not right now, Mom," Roman said. "I want to play my new video game. I'll write the notes later. I promise."
"I know you intend to, but I also know how easy it is to keep putting it off," said Mom. "Everyone who gave you a gift spent time and money to show you they love you--time and money they could have used some other way. Now you need to take some time to sit down and write a short note to thank them."
Roman grumbled, but got busy and started writing. Twenty minutes later the notes were finished, and Roman spent the rest of the day enjoying his gifts.
At dinnertime, the family gathered for prayer. "Roman got some very nice gifts today," said Dad, "and every day the Lord gives gifts to all of us. Too often, we're so busy enjoying them that we forget to tell Him thank you."
"I was in a hurry to enjoy my gifts too," Roman said. "I wanted to wait to write thank-you notes, but Mom wouldn't let me."
Mom chuckled. "Writing those notes didn't take long, did it? And it was time well spent. Now you don't have to remember to do it later."
"You know what I'm going to start doing?" Roman said. "I'm going to start saying thank-you prayers to Jesus before I ask Him for anything. I don't want to forget to thank Him for all He's done for me. I'm going to start right now!"
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you say thank you to people who have been good to you? How about Jesus? Do you thank Him for all He's done for you? He died for your sins, made you God's child, and provides for you each day. In today's Bible reading, Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one returned to say thank you. Don't be like the nine who showed a lack of gratitude. Take time today and every day to offer thanks to Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
It is good to give thanks to the Lord, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High. (NKJV) (Psalm 92:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Take time to say thanks
Bible Reading: John 3:16-21
"How was this cave discovered?" Ryan's dad asked the tour guide as they took an elevator into the depths of Jewel Cave near Custer, South Dakota.
"It's an interesting story," replied the guide. "In 1900, two prospectors heard wind rushing through a hole in the rocks. When they enlarged the hole, they found a cave full of sparkling crystals. The Jewel Cave National Monument was established in 1908 to protect this beautiful cave."
The elevator stopped, and they stepped out. Following a paved, lighted pathway, they climbed up and down more than seven hundred steps. Ryan was fascinated with the colorful rock crystals hanging like giant icicles. Away from the light, deep darkness enveloped the caverns. "With over two hundred miles already mapped, Jewel Cave is one of the longest caves in the world, and more has yet to be explored," the guide said as the tour group stopped in one of the chambers. "In a minute, I'm going to turn off the lights, and you'll see what real darkness is like."
Oh, great! Ryan thought with a frown. You always hear about tour guides doing that--like we've never been in the dark before. But when the lights went out, Ryan gasped. Whoa, this really is dark, he thought. He couldn't see his fingers, even though he put them right in front of his eyes. It was much darker than the darkest night Ryan had ever experienced. At home during the night, he could at least see some shadows. "I can almost feel the darkness here," he whispered to his dad.
"Now I'm going to leave you in the dark while I take a coffee break," the
guide said.
Everyone laughed at the joke, including Ryan, but he felt a little shiver go up his back at the thought of being left in such darkness. Suddenly he remembered his teacher at church telling the class that Jesus died and rose again to rescue people lost in the darkness of sin.
Wow, thought Ryan when the guide turned the lights back on. I'm glad our guide was just joking about leaving us in this dark cave, but being in the darkness of sin is no joke. I was in a place a lot darker than this before I knew Jesus. I'm so glad He came to rescue me!
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Are you lost in darkness--the darkness of sin? There's only one way out of that darkness. The Bible calls Jesus the light of the world. He's the only one who can save you from sin and lead you from darkness to light. Trust Him to rescue you from the darkness of sin and give you His life-giving light. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus] said, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never live in darkness. They will have the light that gives life." (ERV) (John 8:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is the light of the world
Bible Reading: James 3:3-10
"Don't jerk the reins like that!" Peyton snapped. "How often do I have to tell you?"
Her younger cousin Lexi shifted in the saddle. "Sorry," she murmured.
Peyton frowned. "See that you remember after this."
"Come here for a minute, Peyton," called Mom, who was watching.
"Right now? I'm in the middle of helping Lexi learn to ride," said Peyton. But at Mom's insistence, she walked over to the fence.
"I think you need to take some of your own advice," Mom said.
"My advice? You mean about not jerking on the bit too hard?" asked Peyton, puzzled. "I'm not even riding! Lexi says she wants to learn, and I'm doing my best to teach her. I told her over and over not to jerk at Shadow's mouth, but she just doesn't get it!"
"Perhaps not, but the Bible reminds us that words work much like the bit in a horse's mouth. Bits are small, but it takes only a little pressure on them to make the horse turn."
"That's why it makes me so mad when Lexi jerks on Shadow's mouth," replied Peyton. "It hurts him."
"That's just the point, Peyton. You're using words the way Lexi is using the bit."
Peyton hesitated, remembering the harsh way she scolded Lexi. "You're saying my words hurt Lexi," she said slowly.
Mom nodded. "Our words can often seem like small things to us, but they can have a big impact on others. That's why we need to remember Jesus gives us the power to control our tongues and trust Him to help us speak in a loving way."
Peyton sighed. "Okay. I'll do that. No more jerking." She turned and ran back
to Lexi and Shadow. "Okay, Lexi, ride along the fence and pull the reins gently to turn Shadow."
Lexi nodded and followed her instructions. "Did I do it wrong again?" she asked anxiously when she got back.
"Well, you're still holding the reins a little too tight. You only need a little pressure to get Shadow to go where you want him to," Peyton explained. "Try it again, okay?" After several tries, Lexi made the turns without yanking Shadow's mouth. "All right!" Peyton beamed at her cousin. "Way to go, Lexi!"
-Leah Good
How About You?
Do you sometimes struggle to use words that help rather than hurt? As today's Bible reading points out, the tongue is small but powerful. The old saying "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" is not true. Trust Jesus to help you use words that encourage people and show them His love. Make today's Key Verse
your prayer.
Today's Key Verse:
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer. (NKJV)
(Psalm 19:14)
Today's Key Thought:
Use words wisely
Bible Reading: Romans 8:18-25; 1 Thessalonians 5:9-11
On Saturday afternoon, twin sisters Becca and Annie headed for the park. It was Annie's favorite place to go on a sunny day. At the top of a hill, Becca tightened her grip on the handlebars of Annie's wheelchair. If she let go, Annie would go speeding down the sidewalk and land in the busy road below.
When they reached the bottom, they crossed the road at the stoplight. Inside the park, Becca pushed Annie along the pathway to the lake, where Becca's two friends were waiting for them. Both girls gave Annie a big hug. Becca and her classmates had a lot to talk about. They tossed bread to the ducks and practiced chin-ups on the playground equipment. Annie couldn't join in, but she smiled big, and Becca knew she liked watching them goof around.
When they got home, Mom put Annie on her bed to stretch her legs. "Let's have some lemonade and gingersnaps," she said when she returned to the kitchen.
"Yes, please!" Becca got out some gingersnaps and put them on a plate. "Mom, why did God make Annie so she couldn't play and talk? It isn't fair!"
Her mom sat down. "You're right. It isn't fair. But, until Jesus returns, this is a broken world. Often we can't change the bad things that happen, as much as we might want to. But God is always good and just, and He is working out His plan to fix our broken world through His Son, Jesus. We have to trust His plan."
Becca hung her head. "But we're twins, and she can't do things I can. I hate that."
"I know," said Mom. "One day, Jesus will make Annie be able to speak and walk. Until then, He will continue to love her and take care of her. One way He does that is through the family He's given her who love her and help her through her difficulties. He gave her you so you could grow up alongside her and help put a smile on her face--and so she could put a smile on yours."
Becca thought for a moment. "You know, Mom, I think Annie helps us as much as we help her!"
Mom gave her a big hug. "That's God's plan!"
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Do you wonder why bad things happen to people? Why some people are blind or deaf, or unable to walk or talk? God created a perfect world, but it became broken because of sin. Jesus died to pay for our sins, and when He returns, He will restore the earth to what He created it to be and give Christians perfect bodies. Until then, He wants us to love and help each other. Trust Him to carry out His good plan.
Today's Key Verse:
We have sufferings now, but these are nothing compared to the great glory that will be given to us. (ERV) (Romans 8:18)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God's plan
Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-4, 8
"What's wrong, Simon?" asked Micah as the boys walked home from school.
"I don't want to talk about it," said Simon with a scowl. "You'll just laugh."
"No, I won't. We're friends. Come on, Simon. Tell me what's bothering you."
"Well…" Simon took a deep breath. "Some of the guys found out my middle name is Thomas, which means my first two initials are S and T--ST. Since that's the abbreviation for Saint and my last name is Bernard, they all started calling me Saint Bernard--like I was one of those great big Saint Bernard dogs! They barked at me and everything."
Micah tried not to grin. "Don't let it bother you--they'll get over it." As he thought about it, however, he couldn't resist making a joke. "Wait till I tell everyone I walk the dog home from school every day!"
Simon looked at Micah in disbelief. "You said you wouldn't laugh, and I trusted you!" he said angrily, and he began running home.
"Hey, I was only joking!" Micah called after him. "You know I won't really tell them that!" But Simon was gone.
For several days, Simon refused to walk home with Micah or even talk to him. He's just being stubborn, thought Micah, but it really bothered him.
One morning as Micah read the Bible passage that went along with the lesson in his devotional book, he came to these verses: "Like a maniac shooting flaming arrows of death is one who deceives their neighbor and says, 'I was only joking!'"
Uh-oh, thought Micah. That sounds like the way I treated Simon. He sighed. I really hurt his feelings by making that joke, especially since I told him he could trust me. He turned to a passage in Ephesians he had read a few days before. These verses say to follow Jesus's example and love others because He loved us so much He sacrificed Himself to save us. But I wasn't very loving toward Simon. I've got to ask him to forgive me. So Micah went downstairs, ate a hasty breakfast, and grabbed his books.
"What's the big hurry?" asked his mom as he dashed past her.
"God reminded me I have something important to do," said Micah. "I'll explain later." And he ran all the way to Simon's house.
-Sara L. Nelson
How About You?
Do you sometimes tease kids about things that bother them? When you're tempted to tease, remember today's Key Verse. Making jokes is not okay when it hurts someone. The Bible says to imitate Jesus, who loves us so much He died for our sins. Trust Him to help you be kind, caring, and trustworthy like He is, and if you've hurt someone by teasing them, apologize and ask them to forgive you.
Today's Key Verse:
Like a maniac shooting flaming arrows of death is one who deceives their neighbor and says, "I was only joking!" (NIV)
(Proverbs 26:18-19)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't hurt others by teasing
Bible Reading: Psalm 56:3; Matthew 10:29-31
"Molly, come quietly and look out the window," Mom called.
Out the dining room window, Molly and her mom watched as a mother deer placed her fawn in some tall grass. "The fawn will stay there all day until his mother comes to get him this evening," Mom said.
"He looks so sweet! Can we go out and see him?" asked Molly.
Mom shook her head. "We need to stay away so the mama deer won't be afraid to come back."
Molly peeked out the window several times during the day, checking on the
fawn. Finally, around dusk, she saw the mother deer walking into the woods with her baby.
When Molly went to bed, she thought about the fawn and how safe and secure he seemed. He didn't seem scared or worried. He trusted his mama and knew she would be back for him. I wish I could be that brave, Molly thought, glancing over at her nightlight. But I'm afraid of a lot of things--especially the dark.
Each morning when Molly got up, she would check for the fawn and his mother, but they didn't come back. Molly was a little disappointed she didn't see the fawn anymore, but she was glad he was now big enough to look for food with his mother.
At dinner one night, Molly mentioned how brave the fawn had seemed. "I wish I could be that brave too," she said. "But I'm just so afraid of the dark."
"You know, Molly," said Mom, "Jesus tells us in the Bible that God knows and cares when a small sparrow falls to the ground. He then says, 'So don't be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.' God is our heavenly Father who loves us and cares for us, and He wants us to trust Him, just like the little fawn trusted his mom. Even when scary things happen, He is with us. Let's pray and thank God that we can trust Him when we feel afraid." Molly nodded and bowed her head.
When she turned out the lights that night, Molly remembered her heavenly Father was taking care of her, just like the mama deer looked after her fawn. She didn't need to be afraid.
-Lisa Fuller
How About You?
When was the last time you were afraid? What did you do? Psalm 56:3 reminds us to put our trust in God when we feel afraid. Isaiah 26:4 tells us that God is our eternal Rock--trustworthy, unchanging, faithful, powerful, and always present. So the next
time you feel afraid, remember to trust in the eternal Rock and rest in His peace
and protection.
Today's Key Verse:
You will keep in perfect peace all who trust in you, all whose thoughts are fixed on you! Trust in the Lord always, for the Lord God is the Eternal Rock. (NLT) (Isaiah 26:3-4)
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God when you feel afraid
Bible Reading: Mark 10:35-45
"I get the bathroom first!" yelled Ezra. He rushed past Rachel and scurried into the bathroom. "The early bird gets the worm!" he said with a laugh. Rachel made a face at him, but he had already slammed the door shut.
At breakfast, Ezra grabbed the cornflakes. "Me first!" he said, shaking the crispy, crunchy cereal into his bowl.
After they had eaten, Dad brought out a box. "I found this in the attic and thought you two might like it--it's a magic trick set I had as a kid."
"Cool!" exclaimed Ezra as they eagerly dumped the contents on the kitchen table. He opened a book that explained how to do the tricks. "I get to try one first!"
"You always do things first," said Rachel. "I want to be first for once."
"Nope! I called it first," said Ezra. "The early bird gets the worm, you know."
"You said that at least twice already this morning," grumbled Rachel. "Where does that expression come from anyway?"
"That's easy," said Ezra. "The first bird who comes to the yard in the morning gets the worm for his breakfast, right? By the time the rest come, the worms might be all gone. That's why being first is best."
Dad scratched his chin. "How do you know you're the bird and not the worm?"
Ezra stopped turning pages in the magic trick book. "Huh?"
"Think about the early worm--the first one out of the ground," said Dad. "Being first didn't work out so well for him, did it?"
Rachel laughed. "The early bird ate him up. How about that, Ezra? If you're always first, you might be like the early worm instead of the early bird!"
Dad grinned. "Thinking about it that way turns that expression on its head, doesn't it? It reminds me of another way that kind of thinking got turned upside down."
"What's that?" asked Ezra.
"When Jesus became human and died for our sins, He sacrificed Himself for us even though He is God. And He tells us to treat others the same way by putting them before ourselves."
Ezra was quiet a moment, then he slowly slid the book over to his sister. "Here, Rachel," he said. "You can be first to try a magic trick."
-Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you always want to be first in anything you do? Do you shove your way in front of kids so you'll be first in line, first outside at recess, or first to grab a ball? Since Jesus is God, He could have been first in every way, yet He chose to be a servant so we could be saved. Next time you want to be first, remember that His way is best and trust Him to help you serve others and put them first.
Today's Key Verse:
Whoever of you desires to be first shall be slave of all. (NKJV) (Mark 10:44)
Today's Key Thought:
Put others before yourself
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:19-23
Guinevere watched as Audra walked to a quiet corner of the playground with a book. Audra sat down and started reading. She really hasn't made any friends since she moved here, Guinevere thought. Maybe she'd come to Bible club with me. Our teacher said we should share Jesus with others, and I could do that by inviting her to church.
Guinevere approached Audra hesitantly. "Hey, Audra," she said, "I go to Bible club on Tuesdays after school. Want to come with me tomorrow?"
"No, I don't think so," Audra replied. She closed her book, got up, and walked away. Disappointed, Guinevere shrugged and went to play kickball with the other kids. Well, I tried, she thought.
The next Sunday, there was a missionary speaker at Guinevere's church. "When we first went to Africa," said Mr. James, "the people in our village weren't at all interested in hearing the good news of Jesus. As you know, we established a hospital in that area, and it has been a wonderful bridge to the gospel. After several people were treated at the hospital, they and their families were ready to hear about Jesus and how He died and rose again so He could have a relationship with them."
A light seemed to go on in Guinevere's mind. Maybe I need to make friends with Audra before I can share Jesus with her, she thought. I need to show her I care about her before she'll listen to what I have to say about Jesus or go to church with me. If I show her what Jesus is like, maybe then she'll want to hear more about Him.
The next day at recess, Guinevere smiled at Audra. "Why don't you come play ball with the rest of us, Audra?" Guinevere suggested. Audra hesitated. "Come on," Guinevere said. "We'll have fun." So Audra joined in the game.
A couple of days later, Guinevere made another suggestion. "My family is going to the zoo on Saturday," she told Audra. "My parents said I could ask you to come with us."
Audra looked pleased. "Sounds like fun," she said. "I'll ask my mom."
"Great!" Guinevere grinned. "C'mon. Let's go play kickball."
-Esther M. Bailey
How About You?
Do kids resist your efforts to tell them about Jesus? Can you think of a way to build a bridge to the gospel? Perhaps you could take a gift to somebody who is sick. Or help someone with homework. Maybe you know a kid who just needs a friend. Jesus wants to have a relationship with each of us because He cares about us. Build a bridge to that good news by showing others you care about them too.
Today's Key Verse:
I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. (NIV) (1 Corinthians 9:22)
Today's Key Thought:
Reach others with friendship
Bible Reading: James 1:21-25
"Sometimes it almost seems like Miss Norton knows everything I do," Arthur said on the way home from church. "She looked straight at me after reading a Bible verse that mentioned lying and…" Arthur decided it'd be best not to go on and quickly changed the subject. "Look at Darci's face."
Mom laughed. "What have you been eating, Darci?" She handed the little girl a mirror from her purse.
"We had 'freshments in Sunday school," Darci said, looking in the mirror and rubbing at her mouth.
When they gathered for lunch a little later, Arthur grinned at his sister. "There's still chocolate on your mouth, Darci," he told her.
Darci jumped up. "I forgot," she said, and she hurried off to wash her face.
Arthur laughed. "How could she forget to wash that off after seeing herself in your mirror? I wouldn't forget."
"Don't be so sure, Arthur," said Mom. "I think we all sometimes forget how we look. I'm often surprised when I see myself in the mirror of God's Word."
"The mirror of God's Word?" Arthur repeated. "What does that mean?"
"When we read the Bible, we often get a glimpse of how we look in God's sight," said Mom. "We see things we should--or should not--be doing."
Arthur looked at the table, remembering the verses his teacher had read.
"If we see our faults and ignore them, we're like Darci," Dad said. "It doesn't do any good to look in the mirror--in our case, the mirror of God's Word--and see our faults if we don't do something about them."
"What should we do?" Arthur asked.
Dad smiled. "The Bible shows us our need for Jesus. It tells us how He died and rose again to save us from sin because we could never save ourselves. Through Him, we have forgiveness from sin and the power to turn from it and do what's right."
Mom nodded. "When God's Word shows us something we've done wrong, we need to remember that we belong to Jesus and confess our sin to Him. He will forgive us and help us change."
Just then, Darci returned to the table. "My face is all clean now."
"Good," Dad said. "Let's thank God for our food and then we'll eat."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
What do you see when you look in the mirror of God's Word? If you see sin in your life, don't forget it or try to hide it. God already knows all about it. Confess your sin to Jesus and ask Him to forgive you. Then trust Him to help you make the changes that are needed. He will help you turn from your sinful ways and do what's right.
Today's Key Verse:
The word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword…it judges the thoughts and
attitudes of the heart. (NIV) (Hebrews 4:12)
Today's Key Thought:
God's Word reveals sin
Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:16-21
"Look, Mom," said Kinsley after reading a story to her little brothers one day. "This book says ponies are baby horses. I thought baby horses were called foals."
"You're right. People often refer to baby horses as ponies, but that's actually not correct. Even when they're fully grown, ponies are smaller than regular horses."
"So the author of this book made a mistake," said Kinsley.
"I guess so," replied Mom. "And you caught it. Good for you!" She smiled at Kinsley. "I'm glad you're thinking about what you read and not assuming that whatever is in print is correct. Just because something is in a book doesn't mean it's true. People make mistakes--in books as well as in other things."
Mom held up a piece of paper. "I printed a recipe I found online that I want to try. Want to help me make cookies?"
Kinsley agreed and eagerly helped get all the ingredients together. She and Mom followed the directions carefully. "They look so yummy," Kinsley said as she took the first sheet of cookies from the oven.
Mom and Kinsley each took one of the freshly baked cookies, but when they bit into them, they both frowned. "I don't think these taste quite right," Kinsley murmured. "Do you?"
"No. I think there's too much salt in them," Mom said. "I thought it seemed like a lot when I measured it out, but I assumed the recipe must be right." She grinned. "Our conversation just a little while ago should have made me more cautious."
"So things on the internet can be wrong too, just like things written in books," observed Kinsley.
"They sure can!" said Mom. "People are imperfect, so anything written by a person could be wrong. There's only one book you never have to question."
"I know what that is!" Kinsley said. "The Bible."
Mom nodded. "The people who wrote it were directed by the Holy Spirit, so
every word comes from God. It tells us about the one person who is perfect--Jesus, who is God and who became human to save us. The Bible is His story, and it has
no mistakes."
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Do you believe everything you read? Remember, people aren't perfect, and they can make mistakes. Just because something has been published in a book or posted online does not mean it's true. But there is one book you can trust fully--the Bible. It's the Word of God, and it's never wrong. It tells us the truth of Jesus, and it helps us know if anything else we're told is right or wrong.
Today's Key Verse:
The word of the Lord is right, and all His work is done in truth. (NKJV) (Psalm 33:4)
Today's Key Thought:
The Bible is never wrong
Bible Reading: Romans 10:12-17
"Do you hear that bird?" Levi asked in sign language as he and Hudson walked through the park.
Hudson gave his brother a confused look. "I don't hear any bird," he signed back, "and you don't either. You're deaf."
Levi grinned. "He's in those trees." Levi pointed to a group of pine trees. "I saw him a minute ago. He's called an ovenbird, and his song sounds like someone saying 'teacher.'"
Hudson looked at Levi in amazement. "How do you know so much about birds? You're deaf and have to read lips and watch me sign words, yet you can tell me about bird songs!"
"Well, I've always liked birds, so I read books about them and study their pictures," Levi explained. "I memorize their colors and shapes and their flight characteristics. You know--whether they flap their wings a lot or soar up high or fly in a swooping pattern. Stuff like that." Levi grinned at his brother. "Mom says I study to make up for not being able to hear. She calls it compensation."
Hudson laughed. "I guess so!" He noticed a sad look come across Levi's face. "What's wrong?"
Levi sighed. "Sometimes I think you're really the one who's deaf."
Hudson frowned. "What do you mean by that? I can hear just fine."
"Well, even though I can't hear with my physical ears, it's not true that I can't hear anything," answered Levi. "I can hear spiritually."
"What does that mean?" Hudson asked.
Levi's hands flew in response. "When I went to camp with Boyd last summer, I learned that kind of hearing comes through the Bible, which tells us the good news of Jesus and how He died and rose again to save us. So I started reading the Bible and going to church with Boyd's family to learn more, and a few months ago I trusted Jesus as my Savior. But whenever I try to talk to you about Jesus, you don't want to listen. You can't seem to hear the message I heard at camp."
Hudson's hands were still as he thought about what Levi had said. Finally, he signed, "Maybe I'll go to church with you and Boyd this week. I'll listen, but if I don't understand stuff, you'll have to explain it and tell me more."
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Do you hear what God is saying to you? His message of salvation--the good news that we can be saved from sin and have eternal life--is in the Bible, and it's important that you hear it. Will you listen? Don't ignore God's message. Trust Jesus as your Savior. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
Faith comes from hearing the Good News. And people hear the Good News when someone tells them about Christ. (ERV)
(Romans 10:17)
Today's Key Thought:
Hear the good news of Jesus
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:17; Philippians 4:11-13; 1 Timothy 6:6-8
"You can open your eyes now!" Liam's mom and dad were grinning big-time as they pointed to his gift. "Happy birthday, Liam!"
Liam swallowed hard when he saw what was parked in the garage with a big red bow. He had been hinting that he wanted an electric scooter for months, hoping for a supercharged model like the one his best friend Jacob got for Christmas. This was not that. The scooter in front of him was much smaller and didn't have folding handlebars like Jacob's.
"Thank you." Liam tried to sound enthusiastic, but he really wasn't feeling it.
"Take it around the block," said Dad. "It can go up to seven miles per hour!"
Whoopee, thought Liam. Jacob's can go up to fifteen miles per hour, and it has cruise control and fatter tires.
Liam rode the scooter around the block, but he didn't really enjoy it. He was too busy thinking about how much nicer Jacob's scooter was.
That night, Liam's mom came to his room to say good night. "Liam, do you remember the verse Pastor Joe talked about last week?"
"I remember he played that song that says 'Be happy,'" Liam answered.
"That's right. The verse was Philippians 4:11, where Paul talks about being content in all circumstances. We can be happy with whatever we have because we have Jesus in our lives. It's easy for us to look around and wish we had things other people do, but the Bible warns us against doing that--the tenth commandment even tells us not to covet, which means yearning to have something that belongs to someone else. In Jesus we have salvation from sin, eternal life, and the joy and peace that come from Him always being with us, and He promises to give us everything we need. That is more than enough."
Liam thought for a moment. "I guess I really don't need to go faster than seven miles an hour, do I? And who uses cruise control on a scooter anyway?"
His mom smiled. "I agree one hundred percent!"
"My scooter is actually pretty awesome." Liam smiled at his mom. "Thank you for getting it for me."
"I'm so glad you like it." Mom leaned over and kissed him on the forehead. "Happy birthday, Liam. Sleep well."
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Are you happy with what you have? Or are you constantly wishing you had the new phone, tablet, or other gadget someone else does? God warns us against coveting, or wanting what someone else has for ourselves, because He knows whatever it is won't satisfy us. Only Jesus can satisfy our souls. Unlike any material item, the joy and satisfaction Jesus brings us last forever! Be content in Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." (NLT) (Hebrews 13:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Be content in Jesus
Bible Reading: Exodus 20:16; Colossians 3:9-10
Jack and Ryan sat on the couch with their tablet, watching a video about how to get through a maze on their favorite app. Mom walked into the room behind them just in time to hear Ryan say, "Thanks for not telling Mom I was the one that broke the lamp in my room, Jack. Blaming it on Jodi was a good idea."
"Whatever, no problem," Jack said as he shushed Ryan to be quiet.
Mom walked around the couch and slowly took the tablet from the twins.
"Mom!" they both exclaimed. "We're going to miss the maze trick!"
"I think you two are missing something way more important than that," Mom said. The two boys' eyes became as wide as saucers as they realized she'd heard what they said about breaking the lamp.
"I was going to tell you…" "He made me promise not to tell!" they both said at the same time.
"You both lied to me," said Mom. "When you're about to get in trouble, lying and blaming someone else can sometimes feel like it's the best and easiest solution. That's why God made an entire commandment about this one thing--He called it false testimony." Mom held up the tablet. "Do you believe the guy in the video you were watching?" she asked.
"Yes," the boys said in unison.
"What would happen if you tried his trick in your game and it didn't help you get through?" asked Mom.
"I wouldn't watch that channel anymore," said Jack. "And I'd get advice from someone else."
"The same thing happens to us when we make false accusations," said Mom. "When we lie and say others did things they didn't do, we hurt people, and they stop trusting us. Those are not the kind of relationships Jesus wants us to create. He's working in our hearts so we can show others what He's like--and He's always truthful and trustworthy. He was even willing to sacrifice Himself so we could be saved. But when you lied, you were only thinking of yourselves, not your sister."
Ryan looked at his brother. "Jack, we better go find Jodi and make this right."
-Manda Van Kalsbeek
How About You?
Do you ever lie to get yourself out of trouble? Have you blamed someone else for something you did? Lying and blaming others can sometimes seem like the easiest solution, but it just makes things worse. It can destroy relationships and the trust others have in you. Don't make false accusations to get yourself out of trouble. Instead, remember that Jesus will help you be loving and trustworthy like He is and tell the truth.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not lie to each other, since you have taken off your old self…and have put on the new self, which is being renewed in knowledge in the image of its Creator. (NIV) (Colossians 3:9-10)
Today's Key Thought:
Don't make false accusations
Bible Reading: Romans 14:1-7, 22-23
"Mom, how come Christians have such different ideas about right and wrong?" asked Avery one day. "You and Dad won't let us watch some movies that Stella's parents think are okay. And Naomi says her family avoids doing certain things on Sunday that we do almost every Sunday. Why can't Christians agree on what's right and what's wrong?"
"There isn't a simple answer to that, but…" Mom hesitated. "We're having Uncle Paul and Aunt Sue over for dinner tonight, right? And we'll all eat quite differently. Aunt Sue has diabetes and avoids starchy foods. Uncle Paul is on a diet to lower his cholesterol."
"And Daddy wants to lose weight." Avery giggled. "I guess he'll eat a big salad and not too much of the other stuff."
Avery's brother Cole spoke up. "Yeah, but what does that have to do with it?"
"Well, people have different physical conditions, so they have different dietary needs," said Mom. "And because Christians have different backgrounds and levels of maturity, they have different spiritual needs."
"You mean, what's right for one person may not be right for another?" Cole asked.
"Possibly," said Mom. "God may convict one believer about a certain activity because it would cause him--or those around him--to stumble in the Christian walk. Or someone may have a tender conscience about something because she had a bad experience related to it, or because of the way she was brought up. Then it would be wrong for her to take part in that activity, though it might not be harmful for someone else."
"So, each person can decide what they can and can't do?" Avery asked.
"Well, many things are spelled out so clearly in the Bible that there's no room to argue about them. As to things not specifically mentioned, we need to depend on the Holy Spirit to show us the best choice for us. We also need to be understanding of Christians who have different convictions than we do. They're our brothers and sisters in Christ who are loved and accepted by God just like we are--even though none of us is perfect."
"Okay." Avery grinned. "One thing I know the Bible is clear about is for kids to obey their parents. So for now, I'll just ask you what I can do."
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you trust God to help you decide what things you should or should not do? Many issues are not specifically spelled out in the Bible, so don't be critical of the way others handle them. On the other hand, don't do something you have doubts about, even if other Christians are doing it. Be willing to accept your parents' guidance as you form your own convictions.
Today's Key Verse:
Everyone should be sure about their beliefs in their own mind. (ERV) (Romans 14:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Develop convictions
Bible Reading: Philippians 1:20-21; 2 Timothy 4:6-8
Panting, Asher crossed the finish line in the big race at school. "Good job!" exclaimed Grandpa, who had come to watch. "Second place--that's great!"
Asher grinned. "I wanted to take first," he said breathlessly, "but I knew George would probably beat me. Second's okay too."
Several weeks later, when Asher got home from school, his mom told him Grandpa had been taken to the hospital. "We'll go see him after dinner," Mom said, "but you need to know that he's very, very ill."
Mom was right. Grandpa was very weak, and as the days passed, he didn't seem to improve. Asher knew his parents were concerned about it.
Asher was solemn as he entered his grandfather's hospital room one afternoon. "Hi, Asher," Grandpa said weakly. "Good to see you!"
"I'm glad to see you too." Asher gave Grandpa a shaky smile. "I miss you, Gramps! I wish you could come home."
"I miss you too," said Grandpa. He took Asher's hand. "I think I'll be going home soon, Asher," Grandpa added softly. "Home to be with Jesus. I'm eager to see Him."
Asher gasped. "Grandpa! You don't mean you're gonna die, do you?"
"That sounds awful to you, doesn't it? But remember that I'll be with Jesus."
"But…but…" Asher stuttered.
Grandpa smiled. "Asher, how did you feel when you were almost to the finish line in your race a couple months ago? Not there, but almost there."
Asher couldn't help grinning as he remembered the race. "Pretty bad. My legs were sore, my chest hurt, I was hot and sweaty, and I wanted a drink." Then as he thought about it, he added, "But in a way, I felt great. I knew the race was almost over, and I knew I'd done my best."
"That's exactly how I feel," said Grandpa gently. "Jesus saved me and helped me run a good life race for Him. Now my body is tired and sore, but I'm happy because I can see the finish line up ahead. I look forward to finally seeing Him and all the wonderful things He has prepared for me. Don't feel bad for me, Asher. It's almost time for me to get my prize!"
"Okay," Asher whispered tearfully. "I know it's going to be a really good one!"
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Do you ever think about growing old and dying? Or perhaps you're concerned you might die at a young age. If you know Jesus as your Savior, you don't need to be afraid. Death for a Christian means crossing the finish line and seeing Jesus waiting for you with open arms. So trust Him to help you run a good race for Him, and look forward to the day when you see Him face-to-face.
Today's Key Verse:
To me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain. (NKJV) (Philippians 1:21)
Today's Key Thought:
For Christians, death means seeing Jesus
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 9:24-25; Hebrews 12:1-2
"Gramps!" Asher called as he burst into his grandpa's house. "Next month we're going to have a big race at our school, and I'm going to be in it. I can't wait! There will be prizes and everything."
Grandpa chuckled. "You'd better slow down, or you'll be worn out before the race starts," he teased. "If you're serious about running, it would be a good idea to cut down on junk foods. I ran a few races in my college days, and I remember the coach emphasizing the importance of a good diet."
Asher groaned. "My gym teacher said the same thing, but I love candy and ice cream and potato chips! In fact, I love all the things they say are bad for you. How am I gonna live one whole month without all that good stuff?"
"Well, you can eat it if you want to. It's up to you," said Grandpa. "Of course, if you're really serious about winning, you'll probably want to cut out anything that would keep you from reaching your goal."
Asher thought for a moment. "I do want to win, and I'll do everything I can to come in first--even give up candy and stuff like that. The prize will be worth it."
Grandpa nodded. "You know, Asher, the Bible compares our Christian lives to a race. Our goal is to run a good race before we cross the finish line and see Jesus face-to-face. To do well in the race of life, we may need to give up some things too."
"Like what?" asked Asher.
"Well, we might be holding on to sinful habits that are slowing us down--things like lying, gossiping, or a bad temper. Or maybe we're too focused on our own comfort and enjoyment, and we need to pick up the pace and find more ways to show the love of Jesus to those around us."
Asher sighed. "That sounds even harder than giving up junk food for the race at school!"
"Maybe, but don't forget that you're not running the race of life alone," said Grandpa. "Jesus is right by your side, and He will help you run a good race. Nothing we give up in this world can compete with the prize He won for us--eternal life with Him."
-Sherry L. Kuyt
How About You?
Are you running your best race in life? Or are you holding on to things that slow you down? Don't let anything get in the way of your goal to run a good race. Let Jesus help you keep your eyes on the prize as you trust and follow Him each day. He saved you so you could have eternal life with Him. Nothing you give up can compare with the reward of seeing Him at the finish line.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us lay aside every hindrance and the sin that so easily ensnares us. Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us. (CSB) (Hebrews 12:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Run a good race in life
Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 12:14-22
Kaya walked into the living room and slumped onto the couch. Grandpa looked up from his work on the grandfather clock and laid aside a tool. "What's wrong?" he asked.
Kaya picked at the fuzz on her jacket. "Oh, nothing. It's just that when the Millers came to church last Sunday, they were talking about all the amazing things they've seen God do in Brazil. After the service, I went up to them and explained that I wanted to help them with their missions work."
"That's great, Kaya!" Grandpa said. "What's wrong with that?"
"Well, I thought that maybe I could join them out in the jungle for the summer, but instead they said they needed help with their mailing. I just spent the last hour stuffing envelopes with letter updates for the Millers' ministry partners. I wish I could do something actually useful for missions work!"
Grandpa furrowed his brow. "Come here," he said. Kaya joined him. "Do you see this gear?" Grandpa handed Kaya a small gear about the size of the dime.
Kaya cradled it in her palm. "It's so small!"
Grandpa gently opened a panel in the back of the clock.
"Oh, wow!" Kaya exclaimed. Inside the grandfather clock was a labyrinth of gears, springs, wheels, and hooks.
"It may not look like much," Grandpa said, "but this gear is essential to the working of the clock. When the clock didn't chime this afternoon, I opened it up and noticed this gear was out of place. I was just about to fix it when you walked in." Grandpa carefully put the gear back in the clock and shut the panel. Moving around to the front, he pushed the minute hand past the twelve, and the clock chimed. "The body of Christ is the same way. Each person who trusts in Jesus is part of His church, and we work together to help more people know about His love for them and what He did to save them. Even things that may look insignificant on the surface are an integral part of how Jesus uses us to reach others."
"So even though I may not think stuffing envelopes is that exciting, I'm still serving Jesus?" asked Kaya.
"Exactly!" Grandpa grinned. "Even the small parts make a big difference."
-Olivia Summers
How About You?
Do you feel like your service is unimportant? Do you wish you could be making more of a difference? Whether you're volunteering in the nursery, washing church dishes, or raising money for missionaries, God views your work as important. Sometimes the most unnoticed things are the most foundational. Be faithful with the service opportunities Jesus has given you, knowing you are helping His body of believers share His love with the world.
Today's Key Verse:
Those parts of the body that seem to be weaker are actually very important. (ERV) (1 Corinthians 12:22)
Today's Key Thought:
Your service is important
Bible Reading: Proverbs 15:1-4; James 3:3-6
"Mom, guess what! Karl's got strep throat!" Nico had just recovered from strep throat, and now others were coming down with it. Nico found his mom on the phone in the living room. "Was that Mrs. Burk?" He asked when Mom hung up. "Sounds like they're going to move to Texas."
"Oops! I didn't hear you come in," said Mom. "Don't tell anyone they're moving. Mr. Burk's boss is on vacation, so he hasn't had a chance to tell her yet."
Nico didn't tell anyone about the Burks--not until Sunday morning, that is. Then it just sort of slipped out when he told his friend Haru they'd soon have a new Sunday school teacher. "But don't tell anyone," added Nico quickly. And Haru didn't--at least not for a few hours. Then he told his sister Ari, who told her best friend Karen. Not knowing it was a secret, Karen passed the news on to her parents, who mentioned it at a committee meeting.
By the end of the week, several more children in Nico's class had strep throat--and several more people knew the Burks were moving.
"Nico," said Mom, "I didn't tell anyone the Burks were moving. Did you?"
"Well…just Haru. But I told him not to tell," said Nico.
"Mrs. Burk says the news is all over town. They're afraid Mr. Burk's boss may hear it before he's able to tell her," said Mom. "News spreads fast."
"Like strep throat?" asked Nico.
"Something like that," said Mom. "Once you exposed your friends to strep throat, there was nothing you could do to stop it. And when you tell a secret to even one person, the story is almost sure to spread. That's why we need to control our tongues. Even if we're not saying anything bad about someone, sharing secrets they don't want others to know can hurt them, and it shows that we can't be trusted to keep confidences. Does that sound like Jesus to you?" Nico shook his head, and Mom continued. "Jesus is trustworthy, so we need to depend on Him to help us be trustworthy too."
Nico sighed. "I'm sorry. Next time I learn something I'm not supposed to tell, I'll pretend it's a contagious disease--like strep throat--and be careful not to expose anybody else."
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Do you keep secrets? Or do you think it won't hurt if you tell just one person? Occasionally, you may be told something parents or a trusted adult need to know--like if someone is being abused or is engaged in harmful behavior, for example. Then be sure you do tell. But generally, when you're taken into someone's confidence, don't talk about it to anyone else. Show others that you are trustworthy like Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. (NLT) (Proverbs 11:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Keep confidences
Bible Reading: Acts 17:24, 27-28
Feeling a little nervous about babysitting at the home of a family friend, Anna rang the doorbell. Mrs. King greeted her with a smile. "All ready to work?" she asked. Anna nodded. "Good." Mrs. King brought her inside and pointed to a list of emergency numbers on a table by the door. "If you need anything, help is only a call away."
After Mrs. King left, Anna played several games with the two kids in her care. "Your mom said you could have toast and jelly for an afternoon snack," Anna told them after a while. "Why don't you pick out another game while I get it for you." She went to the kitchen, fixed toast for each of the kids, and took it back to the family room. As they began to eat, they were all startled by the loud buzzing of the smoke alarm. Oh, what do I do now? Anna thought in a panic. She jumped up. Lord, please show me what to do. Right away she knew she needed to get the kids out of the house.
As they hurried to the door, Anna noticed the list of emergency numbers and grabbed it. Once they were safely on the far side of the yard, she took out her cell phone and dialed the number for the fire department.
With the siren blaring, a fire truck soon rounded the corner. Neighbors came to watch as firefighters hurried into the Kings' house and then came back out, smiling. "Everything's fine," they said. "Smoke from a piece of bread caught in the toaster tripped the smoke alarm." Anna was relieved, but she was also embarrassed because she had called the fire department over burned toast. "You did exactly the right thing," the firefighters told Anna. "Never take a chance when there could be a fire."
When Anna got home, she told her family about the excitement. "You know what?" she said. "After I called the fire department, it still took a little time for the firefighters to get there. But when I asked God to show me what to do, right away He helped me remember that it's important to get out fast if there's a fire." She grinned. "Mrs. King told me help was only a call away, and she was right. I can call on the Lord for help anytime."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Isn't it amazing that the Almighty God who made all things is right there, ready to
help you at all times? He wants you to call on Him when you're concerned about the best way to handle all kinds of situations. Talk to Him about anything that troubles you.
He's always ready to listen. He hears every prayer and will help you in every situation.
Today's Key Verse:
He [God] is not far from each one of us. (NKJV) (Acts 17:27)
Today's Key Thought:
God is always available
Bible Reading: Proverbs 6:20-22
As Aurora and her mom walked along a nearby lake one chilly spring day, a wispy mist rose up from the water. "Look, Mom. That lady is feeding the ducks." Aurora motioned toward a woman seated on a bench. "Let's go watch them."
"Okay," said Mom, so they walked toward the woman. A mob of ducks milled around her, frantically pushing and shoving to get the corn she offered them.
"There's one with babies!" Aurora laughed as she pointed to a mother duck with several little ones. "They're so cute and tiny."
Mom nodded. "Yes, and notice how close they stick to their mother."
"How do they know which one she is?" asked Aurora. "Ducks all look alike."
Hearing her, the woman on the bench turned. "To you they do, but not to them. And ducklings know their mother's voice."
Aurora noticed two ducklings at the edge of the group, tripping along and peeping at the top of their little voices. "Oh, poor things! They must not have a mother."
The woman pointed to the duck family. "They belong with the others. They got separated from the brood a minute ago."
Quacking loudly, the mother duck headed for the water. The five ducklings with her followed. The two other ducklings hesitated, then hurried toward the water too. They fell in line with the others as the mother duck led them far out into the lake.
"Wow! They really do know her voice," said Aurora. "And they do what she tells them, don't they?"
The woman nodded. "Kids should listen to their mothers' voices as well as ducklings do," she said with a grin.
Mom chuckled. "I agree," she said as she and Aurora turned to leave.
"I agree too," Aurora said as they walked along. She laughed when Mom looked at her in surprise. "Okay, I admit I don't always act like it, but I know mothers really do want what's best for their kids."
"I'm glad you know that," Mom said. "I know I'm not perfect, but I pray every day that Jesus would help me teach you to follow Him. He made me your mother so I can help you hear His voice."
Aurora reached out and squeezed her mom's arm. "I'm so thankful He did."
-Marya Decker
How About You?
Do you listen to your mother? Do you follow her advice? Even baby animals--like ducklings--listen to their mothers. How about you? Do you hear and obey your mother or other caretaker God provided for you? God puts mothers in children's lives so they can demonstrate the kind of love Jesus has for us. Mother's Day is a good time to thank Him for those who love and care for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not turn away from your mother's teaching. (Proverbs 1:8)
Today's Key Thought:
Thank God for mothers
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16; Philippians 2:12-15
"Happy birthday to you," sang Liam and Hallie as their mom brought a cake to the table. "Happy birthday, dear Dad. Happy birthday to you."
"Blow out the candles, Dad," said Liam.
"And don't forget to make a wish!" added Hallie.
"All right! Let's see
" Dad closed his eyes, took a deep breath, puffed out his cheeks, and blew. All around the cake, little lights went out. But one recovered and burned brightly again. "Oops," said Dad, and he blew again. The candle flickered and appeared to go out, but when Dad stopped blowing, the flame came right back. He tried a third time and it happened again. "Hey, wait a minute!" he said when Liam and Hallie erupted in giggles. "That has to be a trick candle! Whose idea was it to pull a trick on your poor old dad?"
"That's what you get for being born on April Fools' Day," Liam teased.
"It's a special kind of candle that won't blow out," said Hallie. "It says on the box that you have to put it under water to put it out."
"Yeah, but I'm sure I can blow it out," Liam said. He took an extra large breath and gave it a try with no success. Then Hallie tried--and even Mom took a turn. But no one could do it.
After dinner, Dad opened his Bible for family devotions. "That special candle reminds me of what Jesus has done for us," he said. "He rescued us from the darkness of sin and has called us to be lights in this world. We point others to Him by living out the love and grace He has shown us. But when we choose to follow selfish desires instead of living God's way, it blows against our lights, causing them to flicker. It makes it harder for others to see the light of Jesus in us."
"But that doesn't mean our lights go out completely, does it, Dad?"Hallie asked.
"No," said Dad. "Jesus has given those who trust in Him His Holy Spirit, and He will never let our flames go out. He keeps us burning and guides us in showing His light and love to others. We can depend on Him to help us shine for Jesus."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Are you shining with the light of Jesus? He has filled us with His love so we can share His light with others. Our flames may flicker when we choose to act selfishly or listen to the world's lies, but they will never go out because we have the Holy Spirit inside us. He helps us turn away from sin and guides us in sharing God's love and truth with others. Trust Him to help you burn bright in this dark world.
Today's Key Verse:
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Share the light of Jesus
Bible Reading: Psalm 42:1; John 4:13; 7:38; Revelation 7:17; 21:6
"Look, Aunt Bonnie," whispered Lanie. "There are deer by the creek!"
Lanie and her aunt stopped and watched as a mother deer and her fawn drank from the clear stream that followed the mountain trail. The two hikers stood still and quiet, not wanting to disturb the beautiful animals.
Finally, the little family had their fill. The mother deer and her baby stepped gingerly across the rocky stream and bounded up the treed slope.
"Wow!" exclaimed Aunt Bonnie. "Seeing those deer reminds me of one of my favorite verses."
"Which verse is that?" asked Lanie.
"Psalm 42:1--'As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.'"
"Our souls drink water?" Lanie pulled her water bottle from her day pack and took a swig.
Aunt Bonnie took a drink from her own bottle before answering. "Our souls need the living water that only Jesus can provide."
"What is living water?"
"Do you know how it feels to be real thirsty on a hot day, after playing a game of volleyball or running a race?" asked Aunt Bonnie.
"Or hiking in the woods?" Lanie grinned. "I sure do!"
Aunt Bonnie sat down on a log and wiped her forehead with her bandana. "God created our bodies to need water throughout the day, but we also need His living water throughout the day--every day for eternity!"
"How do we get God's living water?" Lanie wanted to know.
"Living water comes from God's Son, Jesus," explained Aunt Bonnie. "Jesus died on the cross and rose again to save us, and if you trust Him to forgive you for your sins--all the wrong things you've done--then the living water is yours forever!"
"What about the people who don't believe Jesus saved us?" asked Lanie.
Aunt Bonnie had a sad look on her face. "Then I'm afraid they will stay thirsty. That's why it's important to tell others about Jesus!"
"When we get back home," said Lanie, "I'm going to tell everyone about this hike, the deer, and Jesus's living water!"
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Do you ever feel thirsty or hungry for something and you aren't sure what it is you really want or need? God created us to need Him, so the next time you feel dry and empty, don't just reach for a bottle of water--reach for God's Word. In the Bible, you learn about Jesus, the only one who can truly satisfy your thirst. He is the living water you need!
Today's Key Verse:
But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life. (John 4:14 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is living water
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21
"Everybody all set?"asked Dad as his family piled in the car after shopping for a new couch. "Are we all buckled in?"
"I'm ready," said Eli. "But after trying the comfortable recliner in that store, these seats feel like stone or marble or something."
"That's a really nice store now," observed Hadassah. "It used to be such a dump!"
"I know," said Mom. "I can hardly believe how much it's changed!"
Hadassah glanced at the store flyer in her hand. "They have a new manager," she said, pointing to big, yellow letters on the flyer. "See! It says here, 'Under New Management.' Maybe that's why things changed so much."
"Perhaps the new manager is more experienced than the old one," said Mom. "They certainly did a good job of getting that store back on its feet."
"Hey, yeah!" exclaimed Dad. "Thanks, guys!"
"For what?" asked Eli, giving Dad a curious look.
Dad grinned. "For an illustration I can use in my sermon tomorrow. Talking about that store made me realize we're under new management too."
"We are?" asked Eli. "What does that mean?"
"Before we knew Jesus, we were controlled by sin and the devil," Dad explained. "We were as much of a mess as that old department store--a much worse mess, in fact! When we put our trust in Jesus, He took over. So now we're also under new management--we're under the most experienced manager there is."
Eli frowned. "I know the Bible says we become new, but I don't think I've changed as much as that store has."
"But you have!" said Dad. "Even though Christians still do things that are wrong, we have God's Holy Spirit living inside us, and He's shaping us to be more like Jesus."
Mom nodded. "Even if you don't notice a difference, you've changed. When Jesus comes into your life, the Holy Spirit gives you power to turn from sin and the desire to obey God, and He begins working to make your thoughts and actions reflect Jesus."
"And He'll never quit working on us," added Hadassah. "The new manager at that store could quit, but God never will, right?"
"That's right," Dad said. "Jesus will stick with us through it all."
-Dalan Decker
How About You?
Whose management are you under? If you trust in Jesus, He has made you a new person and is working in your life. If not, you're still under the control of sin and Satan. That's an unpleasant thought, but it doesn't have to stay that way. Why not fire that old manager today? Trust Jesus as your Savior and let Him manage your life. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.) He's the best manager there is, and He will take good care of you.
Today's Key Verse:
Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (2 Corinthians 5:17 (NLT))
Today's Key Thought:
Let Jesus manage your life
Bible Reading: Romans 12:17-21
"Your yard's looking good, Greg!"
At the sound of his father's voice, Mitch looked out the window and saw Dad give the guy next door a thumbs-up. Their neighbor--who most people referred to as Grumpy Guy--nodded curtly in response.
When Dad came inside, Mitch asked, "Dad, why are you nice to that grouchy guy?"
"Mitch," Dad said, "he's an adult. So, to you, his name is Mr. Oakley. I know he can be unpleasant. Does that mean I can be unpleasant in return?"
"But, Dad, he talks bad about everyone, even you! He says you leave the trash cans out too long and you water the lawn too much. Yesterday he cursed out the mailman. Nobody likes him."
For a moment, Dad was silent. Then he said,"I understand how you feel, Mitch. When I was your age, the neighborhood grouch was Mr. Hardwick. He still lives near Grandma. Every time I saw him, he either ignored me or screamed at me, especially if my Frisbee went into his yard."
"That sounds like Grump--I mean, Mr. Oakley."
"One day when I complained to my mom about Mr. Hardwick, she told me something I never forgot. She said when you meet someone who often seems grumpy, you don't really know what's going on with him behind closed doors. He might have terrible money problems or cancer, or maybe he just lost a family member or has gone through a lot of tough experiences in his life."
"I never thought of that. Do you think Mr. Oakley is sick or something?"
"I don't know. But I do know this--nobody should live in a neighborhood and feel like there's not one person there who would be friendly to him. As a Christian who's been shown God's kindness even though I didn't deserve it, that thought really bothers me. Suppose Mr. Oakley had car trouble and needed a ride to work? I'd want him to look over here and know we would help him."
"I get it, Dad. You want to show him Jesus."
Dad nodded. "A wise man once said, 'You may be the only Bible some people will ever read.' I want to show Mr. Oakley that Jesus loves him and that he's welcome in the family of God."
-Teresa Ambord
How About You?
Do you know someone who's often in a bad mood? It might be a neighbor, a teacher, a member of your family, or someone else. It's tempting to be grouchy to a person who is grouchy to you, but keep in mind, that person might have troubles you don't know about. Instead of being grouchy, respond as Jesus would. Show that person the love and kindness He has shown you.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:21 (NKJV))
Today's Key Thought:
Respond with kindness
Bible Reading: Psalm 46:1-3, 10-11; 1 Peter 5:7
"You're home early," said Mom when Marlee came in after school. "I thought you were going to stay and try out for your class play today."
Marlee shook her head. "I changed my mind. The play sounds really fun, but I'm not sure I'd be able to say lines in front of an audience--it makes me nervous thinking about it."
"I'm sorry, Marlee," said Mom. "Have you prayed about that problem?"
"Prayed? Not really." Marlee hesitated. "I don't know
it just seems like I should be able to solve my problems myself."
Before Mom could answer, Marlee saw her cat rolling on the floor, tugging at her collar. "I think something's wrong with Gertrude." She bent down to see what was wrong, but Gertrude jumped up and scooted away on three legs. "Help me, Mom!" Marlee exclaimed.
Mom joined her. "One of her claws is stuck in a slit on her bell. Come on, Gertrude. Be still so we can help you."
But Gertrude would not be still. Each time Mom or Marlee came close, she managed to dodge their hands.
"I think we'll have to wait until she tires out from her own efforts," said Mom. So they stayed near, watching Gertrude struggle as she tried to free her paw.
"Maybe she'll let us help now," Mom said at last. And this time, Gertrude allowed Marlee to pick her up. Marlee held the cat while Mom lifted Gertrude's paw and carefully freed the claw that had gotten stuck in the bell.
"I'm glad she finally let us help," said Marlee as she cuddled the tired cat.
"Yes," said Mom. "You know, I think Gertrude's a lot like you."
"Like me?" asked Marlee in surprise. "How?"
"Gertrude tried so hard to solve her problem by herself--like you've been doing with the difficult situation you face,"Mom explained. "You need to trust Jesus to help you with it. He didn't save you from sin and make you His child so you could go through life struggling with your problems on your own. Ask Him what you should do about the play and how to handle it."
Marlee was thoughtful. "Okay," she said. "I'll pray about it."
"Good," said Mom. "And if there's anything I can do, I'm here to help too."
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Is there a problem you're struggling with? Have you brought it to God? People may say you need to solve your problems on your own, but that's not what God says. The Bible says to bring your problems and concerns to Jesus in prayer. He knows what needs to be done, and He promises to help you. Talk to Him about your problems. Then relax and trust Him to help you.
Today's Key Verse:
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (Psalm 46:1 (NKJV))
Today's Key Thought:
Let God help you
Bible Reading: Romans 16:1-16
This whole chapter is like the world's longest greeting card! Diego thought one morning as he read the sixteenth chapter of Romans. He looked at the verses again. It talks about people Paul appreciated. Maybe it's to show us we should let people know how much we appreciate them. I know--I'll do that today! I wonder what they'll think? Diego grinned. They'll probably be surprised!
At breakfast, Diego smiled at his mom when she handed him a plate of toast and eggs. "Thanks for fixing this for me, Mom." He turned to his brother. "And thanks for letting me use your markers for my poster, Luis." Mom and Luis looked a little surprised, but they gave Diego big smiles.
Later that day, Diego greeted a friend. "Hi, Gabe! It sure was nice of you to stick up for me when those guys were teasing me yesterday."
"Hey, no problem," Gabe said with a grin. "That's what friends are for."
After class, Diego went up to his teacher, who was grading papers at her desk. "I like the way you've been teaching us about all those Civil War battles," he told her. "The stories you tell make studying so much more interesting. And they help me remember the dates."
Miss Simmons smiled. "Why, thank you! I'm glad you find it helpful."
On the way home from school, Diego saw Pastor Grey and the church music director standing in the parking lot. "Hi, Pastor Grey," said Diego as he approached. "In that sermon about the Ten Commandments last Sunday, you explained them in a way I could understand. And I like the music you pick every week, Mrs. Bell." Diego received two more big smiles.
That night, as Diego was getting ready for bed, he recalled all the smiles he'd gotten that day. "People appreciate being appreciated," he murmured to himself. Then he thought of something else. I haven't told God how much I appreciate Him today. So he sat down on his bed and prayed. "Dear Jesus, thank You for loving me and for dying on the cross for my sins. And thank you for all the wonderful people you've put in my life. Amen."
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Who are some people you appreciate? Have you told them? Make a list of five people you're thankful for, and then share your appreciation with them. And don't forget to include Jesus on your list. He deserves the most appreciation of all! Thank Him for all He's done for you and for putting people in your life who love you, help you, and point you to Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God. (Philippians 1:3 (NLT))
Today's Key Thought:
Share your appreciation
Bible Reading: Isaiah 55:8-11
"Guess what, Grandma," said Maelie as she worked on a jigsaw puzzle. "The house we're moving to is right next to a horse ranch! Isn't that exciting?"
"It is," Grandma agreed. "I guess that means you're looking forward to moving, right?" Maelie nodded, and Grandma turned to Maelie's brother. "How about you, Owen? Are you eager to move too?"
"No. I'm going to miss all my friends," replied Owen gloomily. "And I'll miss you and Grandpa." Owen sighed. "I don't see why we can't stay right here!"
Grandma put an arm around him. "I'll miss you too, but I know God has a reason for having your family move."
Maelie frowned as she continued to work on her puzzle. "I hate it when pieces won't go in!" she muttered. "This one should go here! It's the right color and everything." She tried again to force the piece to fit.
"The color is right," said Grandma. "But if that piece won't go in, you'd better look for a different one. Try the one over there."
"This one?" Maelie picked up the puzzle piece and tried it in the space. It didn't go in either.
"You've got it turned the wrong way," said Owen. "Turn it the other way around."
Maelie turned it the way Owen suggested. "Hey! It does fit. Good job, Owen."
Grandma smiled. "In a way, life is like a puzzle. It's sometimes hard for us to understand what purpose God has for allowing certain things to happen. But as time goes by, we often see the pieces slowly begin to fit into place."
"But why can't staying here be a piece of my life-puzzle?" asked Owen.
"I don't know, Owen, but I do know it isn't good to try to force a piece into the puzzle when it doesn't fit. We need to remember that Jesus is with us, even when things don't seem to make sense, and trust Him to work everything out. He knows what pieces are needed in our lives and how they should fit together to make a beautiful picture--one that points to His love and faithfulness."
"So you're saying I need to trust Him with this piece of my life--this move?" Owen asked, and Grandma nodded. "Okay," Owen said. "I will."
-Gloria D. Morrison
How About You?
Do you wonder why God has allowed certain things to happen in your life? Everyone goes through difficult experiences that don't make sense to us. We don't need to understand God's reasons for allowing those things to happen--we just need to trust Jesus to be with us and use them for good. Trust Him to take all the pieces of your life--the good parts and those that don't seem good to you--and fit them together to make something beautiful.
Today's Key Verse:
We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God. (Romans 8:28 (CSB))
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God with everything
Bible Reading: Psalm 107:8-9; Galatians 5:24-26; Philippians 4:11-13
"Ouch!" yelled Patrick when his sister pinched him. "What was that for?"
Ciara giggled. "You're not wearing green! You have to wear green on St. Patrick's Day."
"Yeah, well, my name is Patrick, so that should count the same as wearing green!"
Ciara tipped her head in consideration. "I don't know
I'm not sure the kids at school will agree. You might be getting pinched a lot today."
Patrick sighed. "You're probably right." He went to his room to change but returned a minute later. "Mom, I can't find my green hoodie. Have you seen it?"
"You mean the one you begged me to buy for you because Beau had a sweatshirt with the same sports team logo on it, and then you only wore it once?" asked Mom.
"Uh
yeah, that one."
"I gave it to your cousin when he was here at Christmas."
"You gave it to Will? Mom!" Patrick groaned. "What am I supposed to wear now? All my other green clothes are in the laundry."
"Maybe you won't need to wear green after all," said Ciara. "You're already green with envy!"
Patrick looked at his sister. "Huh?"
"You wanted that hoodie so bad because Beau had one, so you envied him."
Patrick glared at his sister, then realized she was right. "I guess I do often want things because Beau has them. I get jealous because his parents buy him whatever he wants."
"If that's the case, it's good you're able to recognize that," said Mom. "That means you can take steps to fix it."
"Like what?" asked Patrick.
"Like confessing your envy to Jesus and asking Him to forgive you," Mom replied. "And remembering that you already have everything you need because He died and rose again to save you. That's the cure for envy--turning to Jesus and remembering that He gives us our worth, not anything we own, and that He loves Beau just as much as He loves you. Beau is worth much more than what he owns too."
Patrick nodded and turned to his sister. "Can I borrow your green bandana, Cee? Since I'm not green with envy anymore, I need something to wear to school so I don't get pinched!"
-Courtney Lasater
How About You?
Do you get jealous when other people have things you don't? Envy makes us see others in terms of what they have instead of who they are--people loved by God, just like us. That's why it has no place in a Christian's life. Instead, we need to look to Jesus for our worth and satisfaction. He is the one who saved us, and He promises to give us everything we need.
Today's Key Verse:
And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Don't envy others
Bible Reading: John 15:5-8; Galatians 5:22-23; Philippians 2:13
Leigh Ann patted down the earth around the small vine she had planted. A wooden trellis stood behind the plant so it would have something to support it as it grew tall. She wiped the dirt from her hands onto her old jeans and sat back on her heels. "I can't wait until the vine grows and gets those little white flowers. Confederate Jasmine makes the best smell ever!"
Adam, her stepdad, smiled. "You know it will take another year before you see any blooms."
"That's okay," said Leigh Ann. "I can wait."
Adam and Leigh Ann watered the vine then put away the small spade and the hose. After finishing their work, they sat on the porch glider to enjoy the warm afternoon sun. Leigh Ann's mom brought out some lemonade and cups.
"Pastor Rick talked about Jesus being a vine," Mom told Leigh Ann. "Do you remember?"
"Yes," Leigh answered. "But I didn't really understand. How is Jesus a vine?"
"Let me ask you this," said Mom. "Can there be little white Jasmine flowers without the vine?"
"No, of course not."
"So," said Mom, "the vine produces the sweet-smelling flowers, and Jesus, our vine, produces the good fruit in us."
Leigh Ann was still confused. "What do you mean, good fruit?"
Adam explained. "The good fruit Jesus grows in us is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. When we produce good fruit, we are showing others that we belong to Jesus and that His Holy Spirit lives inside us."
"So, Jesus planted His Spirit in me when I trusted Him as my Savior last month," Leigh Ann said. "And now He helps me show love and patience and all that nice stuff."
"That's right," said Mom. "But, like the vine you planted, it takes care and pruning for beautiful flowers or fruit to be produced."
Leigh Ann grinned. "I guess that means you need to give me lots of time before expecting any good fruit."
"Oh, I can already see some fruit growing in your life," said Adam. He picked up the watering can. "But we can still water you more often!" He ran after a squealing Leigh Ann, sprinkling water over her head.
-Bonnie Carr
How About You?
Do you see God's fruit growing in your life? Just like a vine grows flowers, grapes, or berries, Jesus produces good fruit in us--qualities like love, patience, and kindness. His Spirit works in our hearts, patiently caring for us and pruning us so good fruit will grow for others to see. As you grow in your faith in Jesus, others will see His goodness in you.
Today's Key Verse:
I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. (John 15:5 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus grows the good in us
Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:27-29; John 15:13; 1 John 3:16
"Hey, Grace, did you do anything yet for our Sunday school challenge?" Presley asked as the girls walked home from school. "It's Thursday already, and I still haven't helped heal anybody who's hurting or needy." Presley shrugged."Guess I'll just have to tell Miss Linda I'm not a very good doctor."
Grace hesitated. "I talked with Juliette and tried to make her feel a little better about her parents getting divorced, but
I don't know." She changed the subject. "How did you do on that math test?"
"Terrible," said Presley. "I got a seventy-three."
"It could be worse. Iheard most of the class failed," Grace replied. "Some kids said Lily didn't get a single problem right! I overheard them laughing about it."
"I guess she isn't very smart," Presley said. "She doesn't have many friends either. I think--" Presley stopped in the middle of her sentence. She took a deep breath. "Grace, how would you feel if you always got bad grades and all the kids laughed at you and you didn't have any friends?"
Grace blinked. "Are you thinking what Ithink you're thinking?" Presley nodded her head solemnly.
Grace sighed. "A hurting person who needs friends--my mom would say she's been hurt by life's thorns. Well, all right. We could see if she wants to come and study with us tonight."
"Yeah, but being her friend just one evening won't do it," Presley said. "When you broke your leg last year, it took a long time to heal. I'm sure it will take a while for Lily's hurt feelings to heal too. She needs friends who will be there for her for more than just one night."
"That's true," said Grace. "Temporary friends aren't really friends anyway. Real friends are friends all the time."
Presley nodded. "Here's Lily's house now. Let's go and invite her over."
As they walked up on the porch, Grace had a thought. "My mom told me that Jesus is the only one who can really heal people's hurts. By being Lily's friends--her real friends--we'll be pointing her to Jesus because He's the best friend anyone can have."
"Right," said Presley as she rang the doorbell. "Let's show her that Jesus wants to be her friend."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you know someone who needs a friend? Are you willing to be that friend? Being a real friend--a friend like Jesus--doesn't just last a day or two. As today's Key Verse says, a friend loves at all times. Be a friend like that--a friend who's willing to listen, encourage, and help day in and day out. Trust Jesus to help you be the kind of friend He is so you can point others to Him.
Today's Key Verse:
A friend loves at all times. (Proverbs 17:17 (NKJV))
Today's Key Thought:
Be a real friend
Bible Reading: Romans 15:2, 5-7
"At church, Miss Linda sent us home with a challenge to do this week," Grace said. She handed her mom a piece of paper. "But I'm not sure how to do it."
Before Mom could read it, three-year-old Alina ran in from the porch, her cheeks wet with tears. "Mommy, look at my finger! That flower hurted me!"
Mom set the paper aside to check Alina's bleeding finger. She wiped away the blood, kissed the sore spot, and put a bandage with bright flowers over the wound. "Remember, sweetie, those rosebushes have thorns."Smiling, Alina went back outside.
Mom picked up the paper Grace had given her. "Find a hurt and heal it, find a need and fill it," she read. "That's a good challenge. Have you thought of some hurting or needy people?"
"A few, but I don't see how I can possible heal anybody!" said Grace."That's what doctors do, not kids like me."
"Didn't Miss Linda talk to the class about different kinds of hurts?" Mom asked.
"Well
yeah, but I didn't really get it," said Grace.
"As Alina learned, rosebushes have thorns that can hurt you,"said Mom. "And in a way, life does too. Like thorns, difficult situations may cause hurts--things like disappointment, sadness, or anxiety. Those are the kinds of hurts we can help heal."
Grace sighed. "I know there are lots of hurting people. Like Juliette--her parents are getting a divorce. And Easton's older brother is in jail for selling drugs. Brynlee's dad lost his job, so she never has money to do anything after school. They're all hurting, but what can I do to help? I'm just a kid."
"Think about Alina. I didn't really heal her finger, but I think I helped heal her pain a little by giving her a lot of love," said Mom. "That's the kind of thing you can do too. Since you know Jesus, you can share His healing love with others. Find a way to encourage those kids and make their day brighter. Best of all, you can point them to Jesus, the one who really can heal their hurts."
"Okay," Grace said thoughtfully. "I'll do that."
-Barbara J. Westberg
How About You?
Do you know someone who is hurting? How can you show them God's love and care? By inviting them to sit with you at lunch? Listening to what they have to say? Letting them know you're praying for them? Pray and ask God to show you what you can do to help those who are hurting. Don't expect to solve all their problems--just being there for them can help point them to the healing love of Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Be of one mind, having compassion for one another. (1 Peter 3:8 (NKJV))
Today's Key Thought:
Love eases pain
Bible Reading: Luke 11:5-10
"Levi, you forgot to pray for Carter today," said Anna after her older brother finished his prayer at the breakfast table.
"You're not supposed to criticize other people's prayers," said Levi. "And anyway, I gave up praying for Carter. It wasn't working. He's not interested in coming to church or talking about Jesus."
As Mom put bread into the toaster, Anna frowned at her brother. "But you only started praying for him two weeks ago!"
"Who's counting? Besides, God could save him in two seconds if He wanted to," Levi answered defensively. "Remember the story of Saul? Jesus came to him in a blinding light, and he believed right away!"
Mom gave Levi a thoughtful look. Then she leaned over and popped up the bread in the toaster.
"Are you sure the toast is done already?" Levi asked. "That didn't take long."
Mom took a slice from the toaster and held it out. "It doesn't look like the toaster is working, does it? This is as white as when I put it in."
"You just took it out too soon," said Levi. "Iknew it needed more time!"
Anna smiled knowingly. "So does prayer," she told him. "Right, Mom?"
"Sometimes," Mom replied. "But you're right about one thing, Levi. God can save Carter in a second--and He will, as soon as Carter trusts Jesus as his Savior." Mom held up the limp piece of bread. "If this slice were very thin, it would toast quickly. If it were frozen, it would take longer. If it doesn't get toasted enough the first time we put it down, we have to put it down again." She put the bread back into the toaster. "That's an illustration of how we need to pray for people."
"Because some people don't respond as quickly as others?" asked Levi.
"That's right," said Mom. "Our job is to pray again and again if we don't see results right away." As she spoke, the toast popped up.
Anna reached for it. "It's done now." She grinned at her brother. "See? It pays to be patient--when you're toasting and when you're praying."
Soon they were all eating warm, brown toast--and Levi decided he would keep praying for Carter.
-Heather M. Tekavec
How About You?
Have you prayed for somebody who doesn't know Jesus? Does it seem like nothing is happening? Keep praying anyway. People aren't all alike, and God works in each person's life differently. Sometimes you may see answers to prayer quickly. Sometimes it may be a long time--even years--before you see any results. So keep on praying, knowing Jesus loves that person and hears your prayers.
Today's Key Verse:
Never stop praying. (1 Thessalonians 5:17 (NLT))
Today's Key Thought:
Keep on praying
Bible Reading: Hebrews 13:12-16
The Parker house was often loud. With two daughters pretending to be princesses one minute and superheroes the next, it was usually happy too. But there were times when Maddie Parker, age eight, and Tina Parker, age six, were loudly unhappy.
"Dad!" shouted Maddie. "Tina's hogging the crayons!"
"I was using them first!" growled Tina. "Go use the markers."
"I don't want markers," said Maddie. "I want to finish my picture with crayons since that's how I started it!"
When Dad Parker arrived, Maddie and Tina were at the angry-faces stage of their argument. No scratching or hitting yet, but Dad could see where things were headed. "You ladies know what happens when you fight over something, right?" he asked.
"We lose it," answered Maddie.
"Because?" asked Dad.
"Because nothing is worth sisters fighting," answered Tina.
"So, do I need to take something away or can we work this out?" asked Dad.
The girls looked at each other. Neither wanted to lose the crayons. "Let's work it out," they mumbled.
"Good," said Dad. "I can think of a few solutions. First, I could break all the crayons in half and you could each have a stub. Or I could divide the crayons up so you each have a few. What if we melt all the crayons together to make one super crayon? Finally, you girls could share the crayons since you don't use more than one at a time anyway. What'll it be?"
"I had the crayons first," said Tina. "Why should I share them at all?"
"Because as Christians we're called to share with others in response to the sacrifice Jesus made for us," said Dad. "Hebrews 13:16 says, 'But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.' Because God shared His Son with us, we should be willing to make sacrifices too."
Tina thought for a moment, then held out the box to her sister.
"Could I please use the red crayon?" asked Maddie.
"As long as I can use it when you're done," said Tina.
"Good job, ladies," said Dad. "So no super crayon, then?"
The girls giggled and started coloring. And for a few minutes, the Parker household was happy and quiet.
-Josh Mosey
How About You?
Do you share things with others--even when you had them first? Sharing can be hard, can't it? But we're able to do it because God shared His Son, Jesus, with us. Jesus sacrificed Himself when He took our sins to the cross and died in our place. He did it because He loves us, and He makes us able to show love to others and make sacrifices for them. What can you share with someone today?
Today's Key Verse:
But do not forget to do good and to share, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. (Hebrews 13:16 (NKJV))
Today's Key Thought:
Share with others
Bible Reading: Psalm 34:17-19
"Can we go out for ice cream now, Grandpa?" Amelia asked as she walked into Grandpa's workshop. She was staying at his cottage for a few days, and they had planned to do many exciting things together--like flying kites on the beach and eating ice cream.
"Soon," said Grandpa. He held up an electric tool. "I just need to put my new wood planer away so I can fix Mrs. Cryer's bench this week and then we'll go."
Ever since Grandma had died, Grandpa liked to keep himself busy by fixing things for people. Whether it was an old table or a cupboard, Grandpa could mend it with the vast array of tools he kept in his workshop.
"Don't touch anything, Amelia," Grandpa said as he turned to clear a place on the shelf for the wood planer. "Many of my tools are sharp and can be dangerous in the wrong hands."
As Amelia walked inside, she looked up at all the different equipment, and the smell of wood and oil drifted up her nose.
"It smells like a forest," she whispered. There were planks of wood stacked up on the floor. She ran her hand along them. "Ouch!" she cried, then blushed. Grandpa had warned her not to touch anything. "I'm sorry."
"Don't worry, love," Grandpa said. He wiped the scratch with a clean cloth and put a bandage over it. "There, that's better. That's why I bought a planer--to smooth out the sharp edges on those boards." He smiled at Amelia. "Do you know who smooths out our rough edges and heals us?"
Amelia thought about it and remembered something Pastor Hughes had talked about. "Jesus," she said.
"Yes," Grandpa replied. "Life isn't easy, and we all go through times of hurt that leave us rough and in need of healing. Jesus understands our troubles, and He helps us--like when I needed help after Grandma died. I could have given up, but I knew Jesus was with me and trusted Him to help me. With His guidance, I found something I loved doing that can help other people."
Amelia looked around Grandpa's workshop. "Grandma would have been proud."
Grandpa smiled, his eyes glistening. "Now, how about some delicious ice cream?"
-Cindy Lee
How About You?
Are you going through a rough spot in your life? Are there some difficult issues you're dealing with that you need Jesus to help smooth out? He understands your struggles and promises to help you. Tell Him what you're going through, and trust Him to be with you. It might not be easy, but Jesus will guide you through your troubles and bring healing changes to your life.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. (Psalm 34:17 (NLT))
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus helps and heals us
Bible Reading: Psalm 40:9-10; 107:1-3
"How did your appointment go?" Dad asked as Lyla bounded into the kitchen when she and her mom returned from the dentist.
"Good," Lyla replied. "No cavities!"
"Great," said Dad. He cut into a loaf of sourdough bread. "I was just about to have some of the bread I made this morning. Care to join me?"
"Yum! My favorite." Lyla took a slice of bread and poured a glass of milk. "I saw two kids from my school at the dentist's office."
Mom nodded as she hung up her coat. "Dr. Cranston seems to be pretty busy."
"Dad, what does 'word of mouth' mean?" Lyla asked.
"It means to communicate by talking," said Dad. "Why?"
"The receptionist thanked one of their patients for referring a friend to Dr. Cranston," Lyla said. "Then she said something like, 'We appreciate getting new patients by word of mouth.'"
"Well, the patient must have told someone else that Dr. Cranston is a good dentist," said Dad. "Satisfied customers are great advertisements. Word of mouth is an effective way to increase business because people trust those they have relationships with and value their experiences and opinions."
"I'll advertise for Dr. Cranston by word of mouth too," Lyla said. "I'll tell my friends he's a good dentist."
"I'm sure he'll appreciate that," Dad said with a smile. "You can use word of mouth in other ways too. In fact, it's something we all do every day."
"You mean because we tell other people about stuff we like?" asked Lyla.
"Right," said Dad. "We share our good experiences with others. And the most important thing we can share is what Jesus has done for us."
"By word of mouth, right?" Lyla said. "We should tell people about Him."
"Yes, and also reflect His love in the way we live. Our attitudes and actions should show that Jesus has changed our hearts. They should encourage others to want to know Him too," Dad said as he buttered a slice of bread. "But you're right. We should talk about Him. We should tell people how loving and good Jesus is and that they can know Him too."
Lyla nodded as she bit into a piece of bread. "Because nothing is more satisfying than knowing Jesus!"
-Shannon M. Huber
How About You?
Do you know Jesus as your Savior? Has He saved you from sin and changed your heart? Then don't keep it to yourself--share your story with others! Spread the good news of what Jesus did for you by word-of-mouth so others can know Him too. Share the satisfaction and joy He's given you through your words and in the way you live your life.
Today's Key Verse:
Let the redeemed of the Lord tell their story--those he redeemed from the hand of the foe. (Psalm 107:2 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Tell others about Jesus
Bible Reading: Romans 7:15-25
Kelly urged Sandstorm into a trot as she rounded the field. She loved riding, but today even the sun glinting off Sandstorm's golden mane couldn't stop angry tears from falling. Sandstorm took the opportunity to munch on some tasty grass.
"Kelly, use your reins!" Aunt Selah yelled, jolting Kelly to attention. She pulled at the reins and Sandstorm lifted his head, nickering in protest.
Kelly guided Sandstorm to the barn, and Aunt Selah took the reins while Kelly dismounted. "What's up today? You usually don't let Sandstorm get the best of you."
Kelly sighed. "Jolie and I had an argument at school. We've been best friends since first grade, but I've been so irritated with her lately. I was so angry, a flow of ugly words came out that I didn't want to say."
Aunt Selah handed Kelly Sandstorm's brush. "Sounds like you weren't using your reins."
"Ha. I'm not a horse!" Kelly snorted as she brushed Sandstorm.
Aunt Selah grinned. "No, but you acted like Sandstorm did a few moments ago. He wanted to indulge, but your reins helped him get back on track. He needed to listen to you
just like we need to listen to the Holy Spirit when He tugs on our hearts."
"But it's so hard! Jesus is my Savior, but sometimes the old me just wants to take over, and I say and do things I don't want to."
"The apostle Paul said the same thing," Aunt Selah replied. "In the book of Romans, he wrote that he often did the opposite of what he wanted to do. He felt like he was in a tug-of-war with his old, sinful nature and his new nature."
"What did he do?" asked Kelly.
"He thanked God for saving him through Jesus Christ. Because you trust in Jesus, Kelly, you have His strength to help you with the self-control you're lacking. It's not always easy, but you can speak and act like the new, loving person He's made you to be."
"I've never thought of it that way," Kelly mused as she stroked Sandstorm's muzzle. "Thanks, Aunt Selah. I'm going to call Jolie and apologize
but first, I'm going to talk with Jesus and ask for His forgiveness and guidance."
Aunt Selah winked. "That's my girl! There's no one to help you rein it in better than Him!" -Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Have you ever ridden a horse? If so, you know the importance of the reins attached to the bit, which encourages the horse to go in the direction you want it to go. Our thoughts, words, and actions can be a lot harder to tame. The good news is, you don't have to do it alone. If you are a child of God, you have His power in you. He has given us everything we need to live a godly life. Trust Him to help you with self-control.
Today's Key Verse:
Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control. (Proverbs 25:28 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Rely on God's power for self-control
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4-13
"When I get older, I'm going to have a car like that," Henry said as he watched a red sports car zoom by on the road in front of his grandparents' house.
"Yeah?" his grandpa asked from the porch swing beside him.
Henry nodded. "I'm going to be rich."
"Will that make you happy?" asked Grandpa.
"Of course I'll be happy," Henry said. "I'll be rich!"
An old, rattling truck drove by, and Grandpa pointed at it. "Do you think the man in that truck is unhappy?"
Henry shifted on the swing and thought about it. "I don't know. Maybe he's happy."
"But the guy in the sports car is happier than him? Just because he has a better car?"
"Well, he probably has a nicer house too
"
"Hmm," Grandpa said.
Henry knew his grandpa wanted to say more, but his grandma came out onto the porch and said it was time for supper.
When they sat down for the meal, his grandpa prayed and then reached out to stop Henry before he could scoop potatoes onto his plate. "You don't want those," Grandpa said.
Henry's brows lowered. "What?"
"They're not the most expensive thing on the table. Take the steak instead."
"But I love potatoes," Henry said as his grandpa shoved the steak plate toward him.
Grandma glanced between them. "I think he's trying to teach you a lesson."
"Oh," Henry said. "I guess I like the potatoes better than steak, even though they're not expensive."
"You'd be happy just having potatoes for dinner," Grandpa said with a smile. "Sometimes people think expensive things bring more happiness, but that's not the case. You don't need steak, or all the money in the world, to be happy--or, to use a word from the Bible, content. God tells us that no matter what we have in life, we can be content in Jesus, because only He brings true peace and joy." Grandpa stabbed a piece of steak with his fork. "Knowing Him is better than steak or potatoes!"
Henry scooped a big serving of potatoes onto his plate and smiled. "I guess I'm already rich because of Him."
-Bethany Acker
How About You?
Is there something you want right now, like a new bike or video game, that you feel would make you happy? Do you think rich people are happier than people who don't have as much? True satisfaction in life is based on who you know, not what you own. Only Jesus can give you lasting joy and peace. Do you know Him as your Savior? (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
I have learned the secret of being content in any
and every situation
I can do all this through [Christ]
who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:12-13 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Be content with everything
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:6-13
When Mom heard Milo slam his bedroom door, she knew something was wrong. She found him sitting on his bed with tears in his eyes. "What's wrong, Milo?" Mom asked as she sat down beside him.
"I had a rotten day. I got a D on my English test--the one I spent an hour studying for." Milo sniffed. "And we played basketball in gym today. I missed the basket so often, and then some of the guys in my class made fun of me."
"I'm sorry you had a tough day," said Mom, putting an arm around Milo's shoulder. "Tell you what
I'll help you study for your next English test. We'll see if we can bring that grade up, okay?"
Milo nodded. "Can you help me with basketball too?"
"No, but your sister can. Why not ask her to work with you on that? After school, you can practice what she teaches you."
"Okay," said Milo, and when Kennedy got home from basketball practice, Milo asked her about it.
Kennedy nodded. "Sure, I'll shoot hoops with you. I can show you some pointers, but don't expect to make every basket.Just do your best and enjoy it."
Before climbing into bed that night, Milo knelt and began to recite the prayer he had learned when he was small. He stopped in the middle of it. That little kids' prayer isn't what I really want to say, he thought.
As Milo thought over the events of the day, he remembered the conversations with his mom and sister. It had helped a lot to talk with them about his problems. Then another thought struck him. I guess I can talk to Jesus just like I talk to Mom and Kennedy.
Before he knew it, Milo was telling Jesus about his bad day. Please help me do better in school and in basketball, he prayed. Thanks for giving me a mom and a sister who love me and help me. Thanks for listening, and thank You for caring about all the stuff I do. I'm glad You understand what I'm going through and are always there to help me.
Milo finished praying, got into bed, and pulled up the covers. I'm going to talk with Jesus more often, he decided.
-Kathy Lahey
How About You?
Do you share your problems with Jesus? He cares about what you're going through and wants to help. You can talk to Him just like you would a friend or a family member. Tell Him what's going on in your life. Ask for His guidance, and thank Him for all the good things He's done for you. He loves and cares for you, and He's always there to listen and help. You can talk to Him anytime.
Today's Key Verse:
Trust in him at all times. Pour out your heart to him, for God is our refuge. (Psalm 62:8 (NLT))
Today's Key Thought:
Talk to Jesus--He cares
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:13-16
"One, one-thousand, two, one-thousand, three, one-thousand, four
" James counted as lightning streaked across the sky. He cringed a little as a loud crash of thunder split the air. "I'm counting to see how many seconds there are between the lightning and the thunder," he told his sister. "My science teacher says thunder and lightning happen together, but sound travels slower than light. You can figure out about how far away the lightning is because every second you count between them stands for about a quarter of a mile."
Just then, an extra-brilliant streak of lightning seemed to cut the sky in two. BOOM! BaBOOM! A loud crash of thunder immediately shook the windows. Suddenly it was pitch dark in the house. "The lightning knocked out the electricity," James announced.
Alice sighed. "I can't see to read my book now."
Mom came in with a lighted candle. "We'll have to see by candlelight for a while," she said, setting the candle on the table.
Soon the storm was over, but the electricity was not back on. "It's still pretty dim for reading," Alice said as she looked at the flickering light of the candle. "But I'm surprised at how much light that one little flame gives off."
"You are the light of the world," James suddenly blurted out. He grinned. "Last week's Sunday school verse just popped into my head because of that candle!"
"I know that one too," said Alice. "The verse I learned last week says to let our light shine. My teacher says we do that when we do things that point others to Jesus and show them His love, even if they're just little things."
"That's good," said James. "Because little things are all I can do."
"They may seem small to you, but look what a difference one small candle makes," said Mom. "It doesn't matter how small a kindness seems--it can help shine the love Jesus has shown us into other people's lives."
Just then the lights came back on. "It's good to have electricity again, but I'm glad it went out for a while," Mom said. "I think it reminded us of something important!"
"That we have the light of Jesus in our lives?" James asked.
Mom nodded. "And that each loving thing we do helps us shine bright."
-Carolyn E. Yost
How About You?
Are you letting your light shine for Jesus? Do you feel like there's not much you can do to let it shine? That's not true! Remember, it takes only one small flame to chase away the darkness. Obeying parents and teachers, being helpful and kind, forgiving others, being patient--these are just a few ways to let your light shine. Trust Jesus to let His love shine through you.
Today's Key Verse:
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (Matthew 5:16 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Let your light shine
Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:26, 31-32
"Look out!" yelled Cora as Maverick, a neighbor boy, turned his bike right in front of her. Cora used her brakes, but the tires skidded and she toppled onto the hard gravel. After a moment of stunned fright, she stood up and slowly limped home.
"My knee hurts so bad, Mom," Cora whimpered, trying not to cry as her mom examined her knee.
"I'm sure it does," said Mom. "Small pieces of gravel are stuck in that cut. We'll have to get them all out or the wound could become infected."
Mom gently washed Cora's knee, then she sterilized tweezers and used them to carefully dislodged each tiny piece of gravel. Cora winced and felt her eyes fill with tears, but she clenched her teeth and didn't complain. "Your knee may be sore for a few days," Mom told her when the cut was bandaged, "but it should heal just fine."
"This is all Maverick's fault! I'll never play with him again," said Cora.
"Be careful, honey," Mom said gently. "I know Maverick's carelessness hurt you, but don't let anger stay in your heart. Remember what could have happened if gravel were left in your knee?"
"You said it could get infected," Cora replied.
Mom nodded. "Yes, and if we allow anger to remain in our hearts instead of dealing with it, it can lead to an infection called bitterness. So what should we do about it?"
Cora sighed. "I guess it would help if I talked to Maverick."
"I agree," said Mom. "I'm sure he's sorry he hurt you. You could ask him to be more careful when he's riding his bike."
Cora nodded. "I guess I need to forgive him too, don't I?"
"Yes, forgiving others stops bitterness from infecting our hearts," said Mom. "But that's not the main reason why we should forgive. We need to forgive others because Jesus has forgiven us. He took the punishment for our sins when He died on the cross, and whenever we do something wrong, He forgives us. And He tells us to let go of anger and bitterness and to forgive others like He does."
Cora looked down at her bandaged knee. "Okay," she said. "I'll talk to Maverick tomorrow."
-Karen E. Cogan
How About You?
Are you angry at someone? Anger can quickly turn into bitterness when you hold on to it and refuse to forgive. Don't let bitterness infect your heart. Instead, let go of your anger and choose to forgive. Trust Jesus to help you, and if your anger or hurt feels overwhelming, talk to an adult. Jesus loves you and has forgiven all your wrongs, and He'll help you do the same for others.
Today's Key Verse:
Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving
each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. (Ephesians 4:32 (NIV))
Today's Key Thought:
Forgive others
Bible Reading: 1 John 4:3; Jude 1:3-4, 12-13
"It's fun to stay with you here in Florida every winter," Asher said as he and his grandpa walked to the ocean. "Just think! My friends are wearing coats and boots and tromping through the snow back home, but I can wear shorts and sandals and go swimming."
Broken tree limbs and pieces of buildings were piled up in some of the yards they passed. "All that damage is from the hurricane you had not too long ago, isn't it?" Asher asked, and Grandpa nodded. In some yards, homes were being repaired. Other houses looked empty. "It must cost a lot to fix all these houses," said Asher.
"Yes, it does," said Grandpa. "Most people prepare for storms, but some disasters--like hurricanes--are too big to adequately prepare for. That's especially true if houses are built too close to the ocean or are not built strong enough. Many houses were destroyed by the storm surge--the fierce waves that the hurricane winds blew in."
When they reached the shore, Asher was amazed. "Wow! The waves are huge today!"
Grandpa nodded. "Yes, but they're small compared to those in the storm surge." He paused. "This morning I read in my Bible about another kind of wave that can cause a lot of destruction. It was referring to people who are false teachers."
"How are they like waves?" Asher asked.
"The raging ocean waves twisted and changed things on this beach and caused a great deal of damage. False teachers twist and change what is written in the Bible. They might say that Jesus isn't God, or that sin isn't that big of a deal, or that we need to do something other than trust in Jesus to be saved. Their lies cause a lot of damage in the lives of people who believe them." Grandpa shook his head as he looked around. "It takes time, effort, and money to rebuild after a hurricane, but only God can rebuild the life of someone swept away by false teaching."
"Wow," said Asher. "So we have to be careful to listen to people who teach exactly what the Bible says, don't we?"
"Yes, we do. We need to read and study it carefully and pray that Jesus would help us understand the truth of His Word."
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Have you watched waves beat against the shore? They can do a lot of damage. False teachers are like that. They may have interesting things to say or even quote Bible verses, but they're preaching their own ideas, not God's truth. God has given us His truth in the Bible. Read it, study it, talk about it with Christians you trust, and ask Jesus to help you understand it so you can stand firm against false teaching.
Today's Key Verse:
These [false teachers] are
raging waves of the sea, foaming up their own shame. (Jude 1:12-13 (NKJV))
Today's Key Thought:
Learn what the Bible says
Bible Reading: Ephesians 2:8-9; Titus 3:3-7
"Mom, can I make some lemonade?" asked Everly.
"Can you? It does seem questionable," teased her brother Trent. "After all, it takes a certain amount of ability to make lemonade."
"Oh, be quiet," said Everly. "May I make some lemonade, Mom?"
Mom laughed. "You can and you may. I bought some packets of fruit drinks yesterday. Just add the sugar and water and be sure to stir it well."
"Stick with lemonade," said Trent as Everly went to the cupboard. "Lemonade's my favorite."
Everly made a face at her brother, but she took out a packet with a bright yellow lemon on it. After carefully measuring sugar into a pitcher, she picked up the lemonade packet. She was going to tear it open, but then she held it up to inspect it more closely. She ran her fingers up and down both sides. Then she took a different packet from the box and compared the two--shaking them and feeling them with her fingers.
"Oh, brother!" Trent rolled his eyes. "I think I was right. I'm not sure she can make it."
Everly ignored him. "Mom," she said, "I don't think this packet has a thing in it. It feels empty."
"Well, find out," Trent said. "Rip it open and let's see if there's anything in there."
"Wait!" said Mom. She took the packet from Everly. "I think you're right. It looks empty, but don't tear it open. I want to use it as an illustration for the kids in my class at church."
"An illustration of what?" Everly asked.
"It reminds me how people can sometimes think they're Christians because they attend church regularly or do things that are generous and kind," Mom replied. "Like this packet, they look fine on the outside, but they don't know Jesus."
"And other people are fooled by what they see, just like you were fooled by this packet when you bought it?" Trent asked.
"Yes,"said Mom. "But God isn't fooled by anyone. He sees the heart of each person. It doesn't matter how many good things we do. Without Jesus, we are really empty."
Everly grinned. "That's why we need to trust in Him!"
"Exactly," said Mom. "We need Jesus to fill our hearts with His goodness."
-Hazel W. Marett
How About You?
Do you try to be pleasant, helpful, and kind so people will think you're a good person? None of the good things you do can save you. You may fool people--you may even fool yourself--into thinking you're a Christian because you're a nice person, but you're not fooling God. He can see whether Jesus is living in you or if you're really empty inside. Trust Jesus as your Savior today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page.)
Today's Key Verse:
God saved you by his grace when you believed. And you can't take credit for this; it is a gift from God. (Ephesians 2:8 (NLT))
Today's Key Thought:
Good deeds can't save you
Bible Reading: Psalm 19:7-11
"What smells so good, Mom?" asked Rylee as she put her school books on the kitchen table. "It smells like
" She sniffed the air. "It smells like Grandma's backyard when the lilacs are blooming."
Mom nodded. "You're right, Rylee. Aunt Lisa gave me perfume for my birthday. It's called 'Lilac Love.' It's over there on the table."
Rylee picked up the bottle. "Can I try some?"
"Sure," said Mom, so Rylee took off the cap and sprayed some on her arm.
Over the next few weeks, Rylee would often smell lilacs and know her mom had been using the new perfume. "Can I use some too?" Rylee would ask, and Mom would say yes.
When Rylee and her mom passed the perfume counter at a department store one day, Rylee stopped to look. "Mom, there's a bottle of 'Lilac Love' just like yours." Rylee peered closer at the bottle and gasped. "Mom, look!" she exclaimed, pointing to the price tag. "It's expensive! Aunt Lisa probably got it at a discount since she works at that cosmetic company. Did you know it cost this much?"
"No, I had no idea! I've been using it just about every day, and it's almost gone! If I had known how expensive it was, I would have saved it for special occasions."
Rylee giggled. "It's just like what my Sunday school teacher said about the Bible."
"The Bible?" asked Mom in surprise. "What did your teacher say?"
"She said lots of people own a Bible, and it's full of treasure. But many of us don't understand how valuable it is," Rylee replied. "See? It's just like you and the perfume. You had no idea it was so valuable."
"You're right, Rylee," said Mom. "The Bible is even more valuable than a bottle of expensive perfume. And the wonderful thing about the Bible is that even if we use it every day--as we should--we'll never run out of its treasure. Every time we read it, it can help us know more about Jesus and learn to trust Him better." She smiled. "Every time we smell my perfume, it will remind us of that."
"Yep." Rylee grinned. "And even when your perfume runs out, we'll always have the treasure of God's Word!"
-Linda Weddle
How About You?
Do you realize how valuable the Bible is? It tells us who God is and what He did to save us. It explains how we can have eternal life with Jesus. It tells of God's promises, His constant care, and the perfect peace He offers. Read and study it to find the treasures it contains. Then be sure to put its truths into practice.
Today's Key Verse:
Your instructions are more valuable to me than millions in gold and silver. (Psalm 119:72 (NLT))
Today's Key Thought:
The Bible is valuable