Avsnitt
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Bible Reading: 1 Peter 1:6-9
It had not been a good week. First, Allison didn't get the part she wanted in a skit her class was going to perform. Then she hurt her arm in gym class. To top it off, she discovered that a stain on her favorite shirt hadn't washed out. "Everything's going wrong," Allison told her mother in tears.
Mom had just returned from shopping and had placed a big rectangular package, wrapped in paper, on the table. "I'm sorry, honey," she said, giving Allison a hug. "Sometimes it seems like everything goes wrong all at once, doesn't it? But don't forget that Jesus still loves you and is with you. Remember those verses we read about trusting God to work things out for our best?"
Allison sighed. "I don't see how having those things happen can do any good at all, let alone be for my best!"
Mom took a pair of scissors and began to cut a small hole in the paper covering the package. "What are you doing?" asked Allison. "What's in the package?"
"I bought a picture to hang in the living room." Mom held the package up for Allison to see. "What do you think?"
"Unwrap it so I can see it," said Allison.
"Look through the hole in the wrapping," said Mom.
Allison frowned, but she squinted and tried to look through the hole. "This little hole is way too small. I can't see enough of the picture to tell what it looks like!"
"You're right," Mom said. "But what I really want you to see is that life is like this picture."
"Really?" asked Allison in surprise. "How?"
"We can only see a small part of our lives. We see what's happening now, but not how it fits into God's overall plan. It's like we're looking at it through a small hole. But God can see the whole picture. He knows exactly what we need to experience to shape our lives into the big, beautiful picture of what He has planned. We just have to trust Him, looking forward to the day when Jesus comes again and the whole picture will be unveiled." Mom smiled at Allison. "Now go ahead and unwrap this picture. I think you'll agree that it really is beautiful."
–Richard S. Maffeo
How About You?
Do you wonder how bad things that happen in your life could possibly do any good? Keep in mind that you can only see a very small part of your life, but God sees the whole thing. He sometimes allows you to go through hard things so He can use them to help you grow in your faith. Trust Him in hard times, knowing that Jesus understands what you're going through and promises to be with you until you see Him face-to-face.
Today's Key Verse:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. (NKJV) (Proverbs 3:5)
Today's Key Thought:
God is in control -
Bible Reading: Genesis 2:1-3; Hebrews 4:9-10
Declan's dad set the remote control car on a shelf in the garage. "Let's take a break," he said.
"But aren't we going to paint it?" asked Declan. They had just finished putting all the pieces together, and Declan couldn't wait to test it out. "This car's gonna look awesome in cherry red."
"We can finish up later," Dad said. "We've been putting that car together for two hours, and now it's time to rest."
"But I want to keep working on it!" said Declan.
"You know, Declan," Dad said as he shut off the lights in the garage, "even God rested after creating the world in six days. That means we should rest too."
Declan crossed his arms. "But I'm not tired."
Dad raised his eyebrows. "That's an interesting point. Do you think God rested because He was tired?"
Declan laughed. "God doesn't get tired. Does He?"
"No," said Dad, "He doesn't. But God set the example for us by taking a break after His work was complete. Jesus also told His disciples to rest after they worked, and He even took some time to relax after teaching and healing people."
Declan followed his dad down the hall to the kitchen. "But rest is boring!"
"Well, it doesn't have to be." Dad set two drinking glasses on the counter. "God gave us rest as a gift. It's supposed to be relaxing and enjoyable."
Declan sat down in a chair. "Like holidays or when you get a day off work?"
"Exactly," said Dad. "And those days aren't boring, are they?"
"No way! They're the best because we get to play board games and eat popcorn."
Declan's dad filled the glasses with ice. "Rest is also a time to reenergize and think about all God has done for us. God commands us to rest so that we remember His work--the work of Jesus and His sacrifice for us on the cross. It's His work alone that saves us, not our own efforts, and resting reminds us to trust Him in everything we do." Dad went to the fridge and pulled out a jug. "Now, how does cooling off with some of your mom's delicious lemonade after all that work on your car sound?"
Declan sat up and grabbed a glass. "That sounds great!"
–Annika Klanderud
How About You?
Do you ever get upset when you have to stop what you're working on to rest? Sometimes it's hard to take a break, but God knows what's best for us. Taking time to rest is important so your body and mind can recharge. Best of all, it's a reminder that our true rest is in Jesus, who completed the most important work of all--dying for our sins so we could be saved and have eternal life with Him.
Today's Key Verse:
Let my soul be at rest again, for the Lord has been good to me. (NLT) (Psalm 116:7)
Today's Key Thought:
Take time to rest -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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Bible Reading: Isaiah 64:5-6; 2 Corinthians 5:15-21
"We're freezing!" Cyrus announced as he and his brothers burst through the door.
"The three of you are covered in slush!" said Mom.
"Did you see the snowman we made?" Elim asked. "Ranny wanted to eat the carrot nose, but we wouldn't let him. We had to come inside early because he's hungry again." Elim grinned at his two-year-old brother.
"Snack?" Ransom squeaked.
Mom handed the boys bowls of apple slices. "The bath is ready! I'll wash Ranny first."
After snacks and baths, Mom hauled a bag to the living room. "What's in there?" Cyrus asked.
"Open it and see." Mom winked.
"Robes!" Elim yelled. The boys wiggled into their cozy robes, then handed Mom hers and Ransom's. "I love robe season," said Elim.
"I was just reading about robes during Bible time!" Cyrus pulled his Bible off the couch and opened it to the bookmarked page. "It's from Isaiah 61, verse 10: 'I delight greatly in the Lord; my soul rejoices in my God. For he has clothed me with garments of salvation and arrayed me in a robe of his righteousness.'"
"What does righteousness mean again?" Elim asked.
"It means being right with God and free from guilt in His eyes," Mom answered. "Remember what people had to do in the Old Testament to be righteous before God?"
"Make sacrifices," Elim responded solemnly.
"But it wasn't good enough! All the good things we do are like filthy rags compared to God's goodness." Cyrus picked up his soaked-through dirty sock with a wrinkled nose. "Then God sent Jesus to die for us! He sacrificed His own Son to save us. So, that verse in Isaiah I read was talking about God's promise to be fulfilled in Jesus," Cyrus mused.
"Exactly." Mom nodded. "Since Jesus is perfect, He became the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. When we put our trust in Him, He takes our sins away and covers us with His robe of righteousness. What do we become in Jesus?"
"A new creation." Elim flapped his robe sleeves. "Ranny needs his robe, Mom!"
Mom laughed as Ransom started running around the living room in circles. "The first one who catches him gets to put his robe on him!"
–Savannah Coleman
How About You?
Has Jesus covered you in His robe of righteousness? The Bible says that all the things we do to try to make ourselves good in God's eyes are like filthy rags. The only way we can become righteous is through Jesus. When we trust in Him, God no longer sees our sins when He looks at us, but the perfect sacrifice of His Son. (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 made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God. (NIV) (2 Corinthians 5:21)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus clothes us in robes of righteousness -
Bible Reading: Proverbs 3:5; Philippians 4:4-7
"Oh, Nathan, don't cry," Sydney told her little brother when he showed her his broken train. "Let's go see if Grandpa can fix it."
They took the train to Grandpa's workshop, where he checked it over. "No problem," he said. "I'll make it as good as new."
The kids hopped onto the workbench to watch. When Grandpa started bending a wheel on the train, Nathan gasped. "Stop, Grandpa! You'll make it worse."
"Don't be silly, Nathan," said Sydney. "Grandpa's fixing your train, not making it worse!" Grandpa nodded and continued his work.
"You're not doing it right," Nathan told Grandpa a moment later. "That piece has to go onto the engine--like this." He reached for the train.
Grandpa set the train down. "Nathan, why don't you play outside for a while? This is going to take some time."
"But I want my train now!" Nathan grabbed it and headed for the door.
Sydney turned to Grandpa and shook her head. "Silly kid! He gave you his train to fix and then took it back without letting you fix it."
"He'll probably bring it back soon," Grandpa said. He chuckled. "It makes me think of how we do the same thing with God sometimes."
"We do?" Sydney asked. "How?"
"By bringing our problems to Him but then continuing to try to fix them our way," Grandpa replied. "Last week you told me you were worried your parents might not be able to afford camp this summer. You said you prayed and gave it to God, right?"
Sydney looked down. "Yes. But I've still been worrying about it."
"I overheard you pestering your mom about it too," Grandpa said. "So did you leave it with God, or did you take it back?"
"I--I guess I took it back," Sydney admitted. "It's hard not to worry."
Grandpa nodded. "Worrying means we're not trusting God to handle things that are out of our control. If you start to worry, why not pause and quietly talk to Jesus? He died on the cross to have a relationship with you, and He cares about your problems. Trust Him to help you and give you His peace."
Just then the door swung open and Nathan came in and handed Grandpa his train.
–Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you bring your problems, worries, and needs to God in prayer? After you do that, do you start worrying all over again? Once you have brought your problem to God, don't try to take it back. Ask Him to give you peace and patience as He handles the situation. Trust Him to work things out for His glory and your good--even if it's in ways you don't expect.
Today's Key Verse:
Don't worry about anything, but pray and ask God for everything you need. (ERV) (Philippians 4:6 )
Today's Key Thought:
Trust God with your problems -
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:9-16
"Mom, why is Dad scowling?" asked Jackson as he watched Dad working at the edge of the new concrete patio he had poured. "I think the patio looks great!"
"I think so too. But the concrete is setting faster than Dad expected."
"Setting?" asked Jackson. "You mean it's already getting hard?"
"Right," said Mom. "It's easy to level and smooth cement when it's first poured, but once it's set, you can't change it. So now he has to work fast to try and get it the way he wants it before it's too hard."
"Oh. Well, I wish I could help him, but I guess I can't." Jackson picked up his baseball mitt. "Is it okay if I go to the park to practice throwing with José for a while?"
"That's fine--if you've finished the other things you need to do," said Mom. "Did you pick up your room and take the trash out? And how about your quiet time? Did you do that?"
Jackson nodded. "I knew you'd ask that, so I did all those things right after breakfast."
"Good for you," said Mom. "I'm glad you're making it a habit to do your work and to pray and read your Bible before going out to play. It's important to practice good habits now so you'll keep doing them when you're older--and spending time with Jesus is one of the best habits to practice. When we spend time with Him, He reminds us that He loves us and will always forgive our wrongs and be with us, no matter what we face in life."
Jackson watched his father frantically try to smooth the quickly hardening concrete of their patio. "Does that mean habits are like concrete and harden in place?"
"That's a good way to look at it," said Mom. "Both good and bad habits can become hardened into a person's life over time."
"And that's why you want me to set good habits while I'm young," said Jackson.
Mom nodded. "We can start new habits at any age, but the sooner we let go of bad habits and replace them with good ones, the sooner those good habits will be set in place. The best time to start practicing a good habit is today--no matter how old you are."
–Pauline Youd
How About You?
Are you forming good habits? There are lots of habits that are important in the Christian life, such as praying, reading the Bible, going to church, thanking God for everything He gives us, and confessing our sins and receiving His forgiveness. But forming habits like these takes practice, so start doing them now. As you practice them, they'll begin to set and soon become a part of your everyday life.
Today's Key Verse:
Remember now your Creator in the days of your youth, before the difficult days come. (NKJV) (Ecclesiastes 12:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Practice good habits -
Bible Reading: John 3:16-18
Seeing the gigantic merry-go-round, Harper and Violet squealed in excitement and ran ahead of Mom and Dad to the entrance. They stood next to the height chart. They were both tall enough.
"Whoo-hoo!" Harper clapped her hands in excitement.
The merry-go-round came to a stop and the riders got off. Harper and Violet were about to dash through the gate when someone's arm blocked their way. "Hang on, kids. Not so fast." It was the ride operator.
Harper and Violet gave each other a puzzled look when the operator let other kids go past them and get on the merry-go-round. "Why can't we ride?" asked Violet. "We're tall enough!"
Just then Mom and Dad walked over. "Finally caught up with you!" Mom said.
"Mom," Harper said, her face full of disappointment. "He wouldn't let us on. Why?"
Dad reached into his pocket and pulled out four small pieces of paper. "Here, you need your tickets."
Harper and Violet each grabbed one and brought it to the ride operator. He opened the gate and let them in. They each picked a horse to ride on, bouncing up and down on them excitedly. Mom and Dad gave their tickets to the operator and got on too.
"You know," Mom said thoughtfully, "this reminds me of something Jesus said. There is no other way to heaven except through Him. Tell me, why couldn't you ride the merry-go-round at first?"
"We didn't have our tickets," Violet replied.
"And why was that?" asked Mom.
"We just thought we needed to be tall enough," said Harper. "We didn't know we had to have tickets for it."
"Right," Dad said. "You couldn't ride the merry-go-round without a ticket, and you can't have eternal life without Jesus. It's a gift you need to receive from Him. There's nothing you can do to get to heaven on your own. Your only ticket is to trust Jesus as your Savior, who paid your way by dying for your sins and rising from the dead."
Soon the merry-go-round started moving. "I'm glad I have my ticket for the merry-go-round," Violet said as their horses moved up and down. "But I'm even happier I have Jesus and that one day He'll take me to heaven!"
–Goh Su En and Goh Shao En
How About You?
Have you ever thought that you could be or do enough to get to heaven on your own? You can't. There is only one way to be saved from sin and have eternal life, and that is through Jesus. We all mess up, but Jesus lived a perfect life, died on the cross, and rose again so we could have eternal life with Him. 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:
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (NIV) (John 14:6)
Today's Key Thought:
Jesus is the only way to heaven -
Bible Reading: Colossians 3:12-17
"Did you see that clunky bracelet Megan is wearing?" Vivian whispered to the girls sitting near her on the bus, but Megan overheard. She looked down at the beaded bracelet she and her grandmother had strung together. Spaced between bright round beads were letters spelling J-O-Y. Megan had been excited to wear her new bracelet, but now it seemed silly. She quickly walked past Vivian and her friends as she got off the bus.
"Hi, sweetheart," said Grandma as Megan came in the house. "Do you want a snack before we finish your necklace?"
"Grandma, would it be all right if we did something else today?"
"Sure, Megan, but you seemed so excited about beading."
"I am. It's just that Vivian said something to some other girls about my bracelet." Megan sighed. "She's supposed to be my friend."
"Well," said Grandma, "I have something I want to show you. Then if you still don't want to finish your necklace today, we'll do something else." Grandma led the way to her craft room. Jars holding beads of many shapes and colors lined the shelves. Grandma reached for a jar hidden behind the others. "I've been saving this for a special project." She pulled out a large red heart-shaped bead. "Why don't you add this to your necklace?"
Megan looked at the necklace she had begun yesterday. The string was already full--there was only room for the clasp. "Grandma, there's no more room. I'd have to take off some beads."
"You know, friendship is a bit like stringing beads," replied Grandma. "You have to decide what to keep and what to put aside. We have both happy and hurtful moments with our friends. But if we hold on to the hurtful moments, we won't have room for anything else. Forgiving friends when they hurt us makes room for joy." Grandma carefully eased some beads off the string. She threaded the heart onto the strand and handed Megan the necklace. "When forgiving is hard, we can go to Jesus," Grandma said. "He's the Friend who always forgives us, and He'll help us forgive others."
"I need to forgive Vivian," Megan said as she slid more beads onto the strand. "Then we'll have room for more happy moments as friends."
–Heidi J. Schmidt
How About You?
Are you holding on to something someone did or said that hurt you? It hurts when others do or say mean things, especially a friend. But remember that if you're a Christian, Jesus has forgiven you for all the hurtful things you've said and done. Let your friends know when they hurt you, but then forgive them so you'll have room for more joyful moments together.
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 and make room for joy -
Bible Reading: Psalm 42:1-2; Matthew 5:6
"Mommy, can I have some juice? Ivy made me thirsty! She gave me potato chips."
Ivy grinned at her little brother. "You didn't have to eat them, Kylan."
"Yes, I did," said Kylan. "You made me want them! You said they were so good, and you kept eating them and eating them. That's why I ate so many, and now I'm thirsty!"
"You can have some water," said Mom. She poured water into a cup and gave it to Kylan, then reached over and took a potato chip from the bowl in front of Ivy. "Did you know that Christians are supposed to be like potato chips?" she asked, holding up the chip in her hand before popping it into her mouth.
"What? That's silly." Ivy took another chip from the bowl and studied it. "How can anybody be like a potato chip?"
Kylan grinned at his big sister. "I'd sure be thirsty if I ate a potato chip as big as you, Ivy. That would be a giant one!"
"Yes, it would," said Mom. "You'd probably have to drink a whole bucket of water!" She gave Kylan a playful jab. "Well, that's exactly how you're supposed to be like a potato chip--you should make people thirsty to know Jesus."
Ivy frowned. "How are we supposed to do that?" she asked, taking a few more chips.
"Potato chips make you thirsty because they're so salty, and Jesus calls His followers the salt of the earth," Mom explained. "If we're salt, we should make people thirsty for the joy, peace, and hope we have in Jesus."
"I still don't get how to make them want that though," said Ivy.
"Kylan said you made him want the potato chips by telling him how good they were, right?" said Mom. "He also saw you keep eating them and that you enjoyed them."
"I think I get it!" said Ivy. "We should tell our friends how great it is to know Jesus and let them see how glad we are to have Him in our lives."
"That's it," said Mom. "Jesus is always with us, giving us joy, peace, and hope--even in difficult times. You want to make them thirsty and want what you have." Mom crunched another chip and smiled.
–Mary L. DeMott
How About You?
Are you a salty Christian? Do your friends see the joy Jesus brings to your life and that He is with you in everything you go through? Have you told them about what He's done for you? As you show your faith in Jesus each day--even though you have struggles and problems--your friends may become thirsty for the peace and comfort He gives you and want Him in their lives too.
Today's Key Verse:
You are the salt of the earth. (NKJV) (Matthew 5:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Make others thirsty to know Jesus -
Bible Reading: Romans 8:35-39
Eva zigzagged around mud puddles as she walked home in the rain, but her feet were still getting wet. I know Mom and Dad both had to work late today, but I wish they'd asked someone to give me a ride, she thought gloomily. And they know I don't like being home alone! But when Eva reached the back porch, she was surprised to see her older sister there. "Hi!" said Kate. "I'm home from college for the weekend." She grinned. "What a beautiful, sunshiny day, don't you think?"
"No, I don't!" said Eva, wiping water off her face.
"Oh, but it is!" insisted Kate. "Even if it doesn't look like it."
"I think you've been studying too hard, Kate. Your brain must be taking the weekend off too."
"So you're saying the sun isn't there anymore?" Kate asked, peering up at the heavy clouds. "That it totally disappeared?"
"Of course not," Eva answered. "But it's sure hidden. I haven't seen it for days!"
"Well, just because we can't see the sun doesn't mean it's not there. Behind those dark clouds, the sun still shines! It just goes to show that we can't always trust what we see--we need to trust the truth." When Eva didn't reply, Kate smiled and added, "Take Jesus, for example."
"Jesus?" asked Eva. "What do you mean?"
"Well, when bad things happen, we might feel like we're all alone, but we're not," Kate explained. "Jesus is always with us. The truth is that He's there, whether we feel like He is or not."
"So the clouds are like our problems," said Eva. "The clouds keep us from seeing the sunshine, but the sun is still there--and dealing with hard stuff may keep us from feeling like Jesus is with us, but He really is there."
"Right!" said Kate. "Because Jesus died and rose again to defeat sin and death, nothing can separate us from God and His love. That's His promise in the Bible, and we should trust Him. The sun is always shining, and God's love is always shining too."
Eva grinned. "Okay. So how about going for a walk?" She laughed when her sister made a face. "Come on, Kate. Don't let a little rain stop you on this beautiful, sunny day!"
–Diane Strawbridge
How About You?
Have you trusted in Jesus as your Savior? If you have, He promises that He will always be with you and never leave you. You may not always feel like He's there, but don't depend on your feelings. Trust the truth of God's Word, which says He will always be with His children. There is nothing that can separate you from God and His love.
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, not feelings -
Bible Reading: 1 Timothy 1:12-17
Hannah looked eagerly at the plates of food the waitress set down on the table. She could hardly wait to eat. "Hannah," said Dad, "why don't you lead us in giving thanks today?"
Hannah glanced around the busy restaurant. "Right now?" she asked. "What if the waitress comes back with the ketchup?"
"I'm sure she won't mind waiting," said Dad, and they all bowed their heads. Hannah glanced around again, then mumbled a quick prayer.
Luke looked up when she finished. "I couldn't even understand what you said!"
"Me neither," said Phoebe. "You talked too fast."
"I wasn't praying to you," said Hannah. "God understood me, and He knows I'm thankful."
"Hannah's right," said Dad. "God does know what she prayed--but, Hannah, Luke and Phoebe are right too."
Mom's eyes met Hannah's. "Do you find it embarrassing to pray?" she asked.
"No, not usually," said Hannah. "But everybody is watching us here."
"Who is?" asked Luke, looking around.
"Well, it feels like everybody is watching us when we all close our eyes," said Hannah. "Why can't we pray with our eyes open?"
"It isn't your eyes that God is concerned about--it's your heart," said Dad. "We give thanks as a family before each meal because we know God is the one who provides food for us. He provides everything we need--including forgiveness for our sins and eternal life through Jesus. He has given us so much, and we want to thank Him with grateful hearts."
"Exactly," said Mom. "Whether our eyes are open or closed or our prayer is silent or spoken out loud, the important thing is to remember that God provides us with everything we need and thank Him for it."
Hannah stared down at her plate, thinking about her parents' words. Then she put down her fork. "Can I pray again?" Mom and Dad nodded.
"Dear God," Hannah began, and from her heart she thanked God for the food. She finished with a hearty "amen," which was repeated by another "amen" next to the table. Hannah looked up as the waitress smiled and handed her the ketchup.
–Heather Tekavec
How About You?
Do you give thanks before each meal? Even when you're in public and other people can see you? If you feel embarrassed to close your eyes and pray out loud, remember that's not what God is concerned about. What matters to Him is your heart. Do you have a thankful heart? If so, pray and thank Him! Before a meal is often a good time to do that, whether silently or out loud, but don't stop there--give thanks for all the ways God provides for you.
Today's Key Verse:
Give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (NLT) (Ephesians 5:20)
Today's Key Thought:
Thank God for what He provides -
Bible Reading: John 15:1-5; Galatians 5:22-23
It was a sunny, warmer-than-normal February afternoon. "It's a perfect day to prune the muscadines!" Dad announced.
Cole and Ella threw on their warm clothes and met Mom and Dad outside. Dad hooked the trailer up to the tractor while Mom got the pruning tools. Then she and the kids climbed into the trailer while Dad took the wheel.
As they rode down to the vineyard, Cole asked, "Why do we prune the muscadines every year?"
"Yeah," Ella agreed. "We're cutting back the vines. Won't that mean fewer grapes?"
"Actually, the old shoots just take food away from the main vine," Mom explained. "They cause the vines to produce less fruit."
"So we prune them so they'll produce more muscadines," said Cole.
Dad pulled the tractor up to the first row. He and Mom began snipping away at the old vines while Ella and Cole collected the cuttings to make wreathes later.
After a successful day of work, everyone gathered in the living room for devotions. Ella paused her wreath-making as Cole handed Dad the Bible.
Dad flipped to a page and read John 15:2. "He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more."
"That's what we did today!" said Ella. "We pruned the muscadines so they'll bear more fruit."
Mom nodded. "But the Lord has to prune us sometimes too."
"What do you mean?" Cole asked.
"Well, sometimes there are things in our lives that the Lord has to cut away, such as sinful patterns or unhealthy attitudes. This process can be painful, but if we allow the Lord to prune us, we can be certain that it will help us grow in our relationship with Jesus, our Vine. We can't grow spiritual fruit by ourselves, which is why we need the Holy Spirit to prune us. Then our lives will overflow with spiritual fruit as we shine the love of Jesus to others."
"I want to be like a well-pruned muscadine vine," said Cole.
"Me too!" Ella exclaimed.
–Lisa Fuller
How About You?
Have you ever seen a plant being pruned? Maybe you've seen your parents trim bushes or workers cut dead branches off trees. This is what the Holy Spirit does to us. When we trust Jesus as our Savior, God gives us the Holy Spirit to transform our lives and give us the ability to produce spiritual fruit. As He prunes us by helping us turn away from sin, we produce fruit such as love, peace, kindness, gentleness, and other character traits that demonstrate God's love to others.
Today's Key Verse:
He cuts off every branch of mine that doesn't produce fruit, and he prunes the branches that do bear fruit so they will produce even more. (NLT) (John 15:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Let God prune you -
Bible Reading: Hebrews 10:23-25
"My class is going on a field trip to see Mount Vernon, George Washington's home," Anissa told her parents. "We've been learning about him, and I need to get books from the library and write a report on his life."
"That's great," said Mom. "I'm sure learning about him before the trip will make it more enjoyable." So Anissa got to work, reading books about George Washington and writing her report.
When Anissa arrived home after the field trip, she told her parents about the good time she'd had. "It was so much fun to see the things and places I'd read about. I even knew some things the guide didn't mention."
After eating breakfast on Sunday, Dad stood up to help Anissa clear the table. "Okay, Anissa. Let's hear your memory verse before we leave for church," he said.
"Um, well, I don't know it yet," Anissa confessed. "I was too busy this week. I'll go study it right now." She hurried off before Dad could reply.
Learning the verse took longer than Anissa expected, and she had to hurry to get ready for church. When it was time to leave, her hair wasn't quite dry and she couldn't find her Bible. After hunting a few minutes, she finally shrugged and ran out to the car without it.
After church, Anissa sighed as she got into the car. "I haven't been getting much out of church lately," she said.
"Anissa," said Mom, "why did you do a lot of reading and write a report about Mount Vernon before going on your trip there?"
"My teacher said I had to. But I'm glad, because learning about it ahead of time made it more special!"
"Why don't you do the same for church?" suggested Mom. "Prepare for it by setting aside some time the night or morning before to read your Bible, learn your verse for Sunday school, and ask God to prepare your heart to worship Him and listen to what He has to say to you."
"Good idea," said Dad. "But don't forget that we go to church to worship Jesus and learn more about Him with other believers. He is present there with us, helping us grow in our relationship with Him--whether we feel it or not."
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Do you enjoy going to church? Have you tried preparing for it ahead of time? You can do that by giving yourself time beforehand to read your Bible and pray that God will use the church service to speak to you and others. Church is a special event where we get to be in God's presence with other believers. Prepare your heart so you'll be ready to worship and hear what He has to say to you.
Today's Key Verse:
I was glad when they said to me, "Let us go into the house of the Lord." (NKJV) (Psalm 122:1)
Today's Key Thought:
Prepare for church -
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:7-13
Emery looked at the tall buildings surrounding her new home. A big lump formed in her throat as she thought about the stormy divorce that had taken her father away from her. She tried to tell her mother how lonely she was, but she felt like Mom didn't really listen. I know Mom's nervous about starting her new job today, thought Emery. But I wish she'd think a little more about me and how I'm feeling on my first day at a new school!
Emery felt nervous as she walked into her new school, but the principal was kind and led Emery to her classroom to introduce her to the class. When the bell rang for lunch, Sara, the girl sitting in front of Emery, turned around. "Want to eat lunch with me?" she asked. Emery breathed a huge sigh of relief as she went with her new friend to the cafeteria.
"What do your parents do?" asked Sara as she and Emery ate.
"My mom is starting a new job at the hospital today, and my dad…" Emery had hoped no one would ask about her dad. "He's a salesman," she said vaguely. "How about your parents? What do they do?"
"My mom's an engineer, and I never knew my dad."
Emery didn't answer right away. "My parents are divorced," she finally said in a small voice. She felt tears rising to her eyes and fought them back. "And Mom just thinks about her own problems and doesn't even listen when I talk about mine."
"I know what you mean," said Sara. "I was really lonely until I met my heavenly Father."
"Your what?" asked Emery.
Sara smiled. "My heavenly Father--God. He always listens. I can talk to Him about anything, and He helps me not feel so lonely."
"Must be nice," said Emery wistfully.
Sara leaned forward in her chair. "Why don't you come to church with me and learn about Him? He can be your heavenly Father too!"
"You mean He'll listen to me too?" asked Emery. "And help me not feel lonely?"
"Definitely," said Sara. "He loves us and sent us His Son, Jesus, because He wants us to be His children." She got up. "Ready to go outside?"
"Yes," Emery said, "but tell me more about your heavenly Father!"
–Matilda H. Nordtvedt
How About You?
Do you know God as your heavenly Father? Even if you have a dad in your life, you need a relationship with God. You can know Him because of what Jesus did for you when He died on the cross for your sins and rose again. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) He loves you and is always ready to listen to what you have to say. Why not go to Him right now?
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 always listens -
Bible Reading: Mark 14:3-9
"Our youth group is helping out at a preschool program at church next week," Charlotte told her mother as she helped weed the flower beds. "Bria has a great voice, so she's going to teach the kids songs, and Eduardo's a lot of fun, so he's in charge of games." Charlotte sighed. "I'm just helping with check-in."
"Well, that's an important part of the program too," Mom said. "They need to make sure all the kids are accounted for and direct them where to go."
Charlotte shrugged. "I really want to help out and serve the Lord--I just wish I had more to offer."
"Charlotte, that's not--" Mom was interrupted by a squeal from little Billy, who was hurrying across the lawn toward them.
"I make present for Mommy!" he called. Clutched in his soil-stained little hands was a small pot half-filled with dirt. Billy had stuck a dandelion into the dirt. Charlotte grinned as Billy ran toward them with a huge smile on his face.
Mom turned to Charlotte. "It's a dumb present, isn't it?" she asked quietly. "That old pot he used is cracked and dirty. And that's just a weed! He should have brought me roses from the florist."
Charlotte looked horrified. "Mom! How would he get them? He's only three! You're not going to tell him that, are you?"
When Billy reached them, Mom bent down and took the flower pot he offered. "Thank you, Billy Boy! I'll put this right in the middle of our dining room table." She gave him a hug and then turned back to Charlotte as Billy ran off. "Actually, I love Billy's gift, even if it's not perfect. I know he brought it to me because he loves me. And when we offer gifts to God, with real love in our hearts, don't you think He's pleased and accepts them too--no matter how big or small they seem?"
"You're talking about me helping with check-in next week, aren't you?" asked Charlotte.
Mom nodded. "I'm glad Billy brought me the gift he was able to give me. That's what God wants us to do too. He wants us to do what we can to serve Him out of love and gratitude for all He's done for us."
–Tanya Ferdinandusz
How About You?
Do you give gifts of your time, money, or talents to God? Don't compare what you can do with what others do or spend time wishing you had talents God gave to someone else. He wants you to serve Him with the abilities He gave you. If your heart is filled with love for God and gratitude for everything Jesus has done for you, He accepts your gifts with great joy.
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 loves your gifts to Him -
Bible Reading: Matthew 10:29-31; 25:31-40
The cold winter wind bit at Maryam's nose and ears as she and her mother were shopping downtown. "Can we stop at the pet store and get some birdseed?" asked Maryam. Mom agreed, and they headed for the store.
As they passed an alley, they saw a man sleeping there, huddled against a wall. He was shivering in a shabby coat, his hands bare and his toes poking out from his shoes. Maryam grabbed her mother by the hand and quickly pulled her past the alley. "What's wrong?" asked Mom.
"That man made me nervous," said Maryam. "Why is he dressed like that? And why is he sleeping on the street on such a cold day?"
"He must be homeless," said Mom.
"We talked about homeless people at school," Maryam said as they went into the pet store. "But I didn't think there were any in small towns like ours."
After buying a bag of birdseed, Maryam and her mother started back to the car. As they passed the alley, they saw that the man was gone. Mom looked sad. "I hope he's okay."
When they got home, Maryam filled the family's backyard feeder with birdseed. Then she went inside and rubbed the cold from her tingling fingers. She joined her mother at the window, and they watched birds swoop down to the feeder. "I'm glad we can put out seeds for them," Maryam said. "It's so cold, and it's hard for them to find food. They might die without us." Maryam smiled as she watched the birds flutter around the feeder and peck at the seeds. "You know what? Some verses I read in my Bible this morning said God knows about every sparrow that falls. He cares about birds."
"Yes," said Mom. "And He cares about people much more than birds. People are so valuable to Him that Jesus became one of us so we could be saved from sin and live with Him forever."
Maryam stared out at the snowy backyard, thinking of the man they'd seen. "We found a way to help the birds through the cold winter. Maybe we could find a way to help homeless people too."
"I'm sure we can," Mom said. "Let's come up with some ideas."
–Daryl B. Knauer
How About You?
Do you know of someone who's in need? In today's Key Verse, Jesus tells Christians that doing something for someone in need is the same as doing it for Him. Think about what you could do. Perhaps you could donate food, money, or even your time to your church or another organization that helps people. Ask God to show you how you can share His love by helping those in need.
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:
Help those in need -
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:10-17
"What are you doing, Thomas?" William stared at his little brother in shock. "Mom, come quick!"
Mom came running into the room. "Who got hurt?" she asked, then frowned. "Thomas, why in the world are you standing on a Bible?"
Thomas grinned. "We learned about it in Sunday school today. The Bible is God's Word, and we're supposed to stand on it!" He thrust his hand into the air.
William began to laugh. "Thomas, you're not supposed to actually stand on the Bible. That's just a fancy way to talk."
Now Mom laughed. "You mean a figure of speech?"
"Yeah, that," William agreed, eyeing the Bible. "We aren't supposed to stand on the Bible, we're supposed to read it."
"Then why do we sing about standing on it?" Thomas stepped onto the floor, looking confused.
"Standing on the Bible means standing firm in its truth." Mom picked up the Bible and flipped to Ephesians 6. "Sometimes people explain ideas using things we're familiar with to help us understand. The armor of God is a good example. Is the armor of God actual armor that you need to buckle and fasten?"
Thomas shook his head. "No, but that would be cool. I could be like a knight!"
"Ephesians 6:10 tells us to be strong in the Lord," continued Mom. "The devil tries to get us to doubt God's goodness and His promises in the Bible and give in to sinful temptations. Standing firm means remembering that God is so good that He sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins and that Jesus gives us the strength to resist temptation. It means trusting that Jesus's sacrifice saves us from sin completely and being confident in God's endless love for us. As we learn what the Bible says about Jesus and embrace its truth, it helps us stand firm against the devil's tricks."
"So, instead of standing on the Bible, we want the Bible inside us?" asked Thomas.
William frowned. "What? You don't eat the Bible either!"
"Memorizing means the verses are stuck inside my brain," Thomas explained. "So, if the Bible is stuck inside my brain, then I can stand on its truth!" Thomas threw his fist into the air again, making both Mom and William laugh.
–Kimberly Brokish
How About You?
Are you standing firm in the truth of God's Word? Satan is very tricky, and he wants all of us to sin and doubt God. But the Bible tells us the truth about God's goodness and His love for us. It tells us how we have the power to resist sin through Jesus. By reading God's Word, memorizing it, and learning about it with others, we can equip ourselves to stand firm against the devil's lies by remembering the strength we have in Jesus.
Today's Key Verse:
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground. (NIV) (Ephesians 6:13)
Today's Key Thought:
Stand firm in God's Word -
Bible Reading: Psalm 31:1-5
"Hurry! Pull up the drawbridge, Winston!" Mitchell hurried into the cardboard castle in their basement. "The enemy is coming!"
Winston pulled up the bridge, and both boys peered through narrow slits in the walls. "Now they won't be able to cross the moat," said Winston. "And even if they do, our strong walls will keep us safe."
Just then Dad came down the stairs, followed by the boys' sister, Charis. "I think it's time for a break," he said, holding out a bowl of popcorn. They all sat in the courtyard of the castle, eating popcorn and admiring the corner towers made by big refrigerator boxes. The towers were connected by cardboard walls.
"This castle is a lot of fun, Dad," said Mitchell. "Thanks for helping us build it."
"This doesn't seem much like a castle to me," said Charis. "I thought castles were big, beautiful palaces with lots of fancy rooms."
"This castle is really a fortress, not a palace," Dad said. "Fortresses were used years and years ago to protect people from their enemies." He took a handful of popcorn from the bowl. "Did you know that God is described as a fortress?"
"He is?" asked Winston. "How can He be a fortress?"
"Well," said Dad, "remember that school shooting we heard about on the news this morning?"
Charis nodded. "It scared me."
"Me too," said Winston. "What if that happened at our school?"
"We live in a sinful world, and bad things happen all around us," said Dad. "But we can find peace by running to our fortress--Jesus, who sacrificed His life to save us from sin and death. We can draw close to Him and trust Him to take care of us."
"But we could still get hit by an enemy arrow, even inside our castle," said Mitchell.
"That's right," said Dad. "And sometimes even Christians get hurt. But when we take refuge in the Lord, we can have peace knowing we're safe with Him. We can be sure that even if an arrow--some bad thing--strikes us, He will be with us. Even death itself cannot separate us from Jesus, because He conquered death when He rose again. No matter what happens, we can have peace knowing we've been given eternal life in Him."
–Jody Hedlund
How About You?
Have you ever been scared by something you heard in the news? We live in a sinful world where lots of bad things happen, but if you're a Christian, you have a strong fortress where you can run for protection--Jesus! He promises to be with you and give you peace--even if bad things do happen. Tell Him your worries and fears and trust Him to be with you.
Today's Key Verse:
The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust. (NKJV) (Psalm 18:2)
Today's Key Thought:
God gives peace -
Bible Reading: John 9:1-7
Jana looked out the window as a tear slid down her cheek. She watched as the other kids laughed and played in the snow. Her brother Caleb saw her and threw a snowball. She giggled in spite of herself as it softly hit the window. Sighing, she turned away and wheeled herself into the kitchen. "What are you making, Mom?"
"Supper," Mom said.
Jana raised her eyebrows and looked at the clock. "At nine in the morning?"
"Yes," said Mom. "But I think a better question would be what's causing these tears." She wiped away a tear from Jana's cheek.
"Oh, Mom," Jana said, "I just don't understand why my illness has lasted so long. Why doesn't God take away my pain and weakness? I know He could heal me!" The last words came out in a little sob.
Mom carefully lowered the meat into a slow cooker, covered it, and set it on low. Then she spoke. "We don't always understand God's ways or thoughts, but He uses the things that happen in our lives." She paused, then tapped the top of the slow cooker. "It's like this meat I'm cooking. It's a special cut that requires careful preparation and cooking that other meats don't require. If I cooked it faster on a higher heat, it would be tough and hard to eat. But when I cook it all day on a low temperature, it's tender and delicious." She grinned. "Even Caleb will be able to eat it with his missing teeth!"
Jana thought about that. "So you're saying being sick and in this wheelchair for so long may be God's way of making me tender and more like Him?"
"Yes!" Mom said. "I don't know why God hasn't healed you more quickly, but I know He's patiently working in your life for good. He can use hard things to make you more like Jesus, who understands your suffering and promises to be with you through it. I pray each day that He will use this long illness to help you know Jesus better and let His love be seen in your life." She poured hot water into a mug. "Now, would you like to come stir Caleb's hot cocoa?" Jana smiled as she rolled to the table to help.
–Myrical Barton
How About You?
Have you been dealing with something for a long time? Do you wonder if God hears your prayers or even cares about what you're going through? He does. God often uses difficult things in our lives to make us more like Jesus, and sometimes those things can last a long time. Remember that Jesus loves you and is with you, and trust Him to use your difficult experience for good.
Today's Key Verse:
But He knows the way that I take; when He has tested me, I shall come forth as gold. (NKJV) (Job 23:10)
Today's Key Thought:
God uses hardships to shape you -
Bible Reading: Matthew 7:7-11
Leighton was excited to spend time with his aunt. Since his new cousin was born, he hadn't seen her much.
"Let's get right to the card tricks," said Aunt Ellie. "Where did I put my cards?"
There was baby stuff everywhere. Leighton helped his aunt go through it. Finally, they found a deck of cards under a stuffed giraffe.
Aunt Ellie was emptying out the card box when they heard crying coming from down the hallway. She stood. "That's River."
Leighton shuffled the cards as he waited for his aunt. His sister had a birthday party coming up, and he wanted to surprise her guests with the tricks that his aunt knew.
"She needs to eat. Sorry." Aunt Ellie reappeared, sitting down and sticking a bottle into the mouth of the crying bundle in her arms.
Leighton waited as his cousin ate and as his aunt held her and patted her back. He waited as Aunt Ellie changed the baby's diaper, and he watched her lay her in a bassinet.
"Watch Mommy impress your cousin with card tricks, okay?" Aunt Ellie moved back over to Leighton. She was about to do a card trick when River started to cry again. She dropped the cards. "Maybe she has a burp that's stuck."
"She needs help burping?" Leighton watched his aunt pick up the baby and start patting her back again. "I'm never going to learn this trick."
"Babies need a lot from us," said Aunt Ellie. "I was talking about that with your grandma. She reminded me that's how we are with God. First, we need Jesus to save us from sin and give us new life in Him." Aunt Ellie sat down. "Then we need His forgiveness when we don't listen to what He says. We need His protection. We need His encouragement. We need His peace and joy and the hope He offers…"
"Do you think He gets tired of all our needs?" Leighton asked.
His aunt shook her head. "Never." River had quieted in her arms, and she looked at Leighton with a smile. "Know what she needs now? Her cousin." She reached over and placed the baby in Leighton's outstretched arms, and he held her carefully.
–Emily Acker
How About You?
Do you know any babies who are always needing something from you and the adults in your life? Babies can't do anything for themselves--they're dependent on others to take care of them and give them what they need. And we need God to take care of us. He is always patient and never grows tired of helping you with your needs. Bring your problems and worries to Him in prayer and trust Him to take care of you.
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:
Trust God with your needs -
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:43-48; 1 John 4:7-13
"I'm not going to Topher's birthday party," Declan told his mother as they walked down the grocery aisle. "Not if Walker's there."
"That's not very nice," said Mom. "For Topher or Walker."
"Yeah, well, they both deserve it! Walker's mean and makes fun of people, and Topher just wants to be friends with him so the other kids will think he's cool."
They stopped in front of a display filled with bags of heart-shaped candy, and Declan's younger brother eagerly looked for something to pass out to his kindergarten class with his valentines. "Can I get this kind?" Ben asked, picking up a bag.
"Let's see," Mom said, reading the package. "We'll need two bags of these. There are only twenty pieces in each bag, and there are twenty-one kids in your class."
"One's enough," said Ben. "I'm not giving one to Steven. He's mean, and he doesn't deserve candy."
"Ben," said Mom, "Valentine's Day is all about love, remember? It's not very loving to bring treats for all but one person in your class. As Christians, we need to love others the way Jesus loves us--even those who aren't nice to us. Either we buy enough to share with Steven or we don't buy any at all."
Ben scowled. "No! I'm not getting one for Steven," he said, crossing his arms.
Mom placed the candy back on the shelf and started walking away. "Wait!" Ben exclaimed, tugging at her coat. "Okay, okay, I'll get one for Steven!"
Declan smirked at Ben's sudden change in attitude. "You know," Mom said, eyeing him, "that goes for friendships as well as candy."
Declan looked at her and grimaced. "You're talking about Topher's party, aren't you?"
Mom nodded. "The truth is, we don't get to decide whether someone deserves to have us show them God's love, because none of us deserve it. Yet God showed His love for us all by sending Jesus to take the punishment for our sins on the cross. As His followers, He calls us to love others--even those we don't get along with."
"Like Walker," Declan said. He sighed, then nodded. "I'll tell Topher that I'll go to his party. Maybe I can get some candy to share too."
–LeAnn Campbell
How About You?
Do you find it hard to love people who aren't nice to you? Some people aren't easy to love, but God wants us to love them anyway. He loves us so much that Jesus came to earth, suffered a painful death, and raised Himself back to life to save us from sin. We don't deserve His love, but He gives it to us freely, and He will help us love others--even those who aren't easy to love.
Today's Key Verse:
Beloved, let us love one another, for love is of God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God. (NKJV) (1 John 4:7 )
Today's Key Thought:
Show love to everyone - Visa fler
