Keys for Kids - daily devotions and Bible stories for kids and families

Read: Psalm 19:1-6; Ephesians 2:8-10 “Come here, Mr. Wiggle Worm,” Peter said as he put an earthworm in a can. “Hey, Dad, are worms good for anything besides bird food and fish bait?” “Yes,” said Dad. “They help the earth breathe.” Peter laughed. “Like lungs?” “Not exactly, but as worms burrow through the ground, they let fresh air through the soil. The more they eat and digest the soil, the better it is for growing things. God has a purpose for everything.” “Well, I’m glad one purpose for worms is to make bait,” said Peter. “We’ll catch more fish that way! This will be enough, won’t it?” Dad nodded, and they headed to the lake. That evening the family enjoyed fish for supper. “Yum!” Peter said as he took a bite. “Fishing was so much fun! I wish I could skip school and go fishing every day.” Mom laughed. “Now that would be overdoing it a little.” “Besides, you like school,” said Peter’s sister, Ann. “Yeah, except science,” Peter said. “I don’t agree with some of the things Mrs. Moore says. She thinks the universe came about on its own, but the Bible says God created everything, right?” “That’s right,” said Mom. “The Bible tells us that the beauty and complexity of nature points to God, who planned everything and makes it all work together.” Dad nodded. “Even though sin has affected creation in deep ways, we can see the goodness of God in everything He made.” “Like worms and how they help things grow?” Peter asked. “Right,” said Dad. “The sun is another example of God’s goodness. It’s just the right distance away so we can live comfortably. And seasons follow one another in perfect order. Only God could have planned everything so well.” “And He has a special plan for people too, right?” asked Ann. “Yes, He does!” Mom replied. “Jesus came and died for the whole world, and one day He’ll return and make all creation new so it’s no longer affected by sin. And He has a purpose for everyone who trusts in Him—a plan for how He wants each one of us to be part of His kingdom on earth.” Dad nodded. “Because of Jesus, all of creation—down to the smallest earthworm—has a purpose in the kingdom of God.” –Harry C. Trover How about you? Did you know that God is in charge of everything? He’s the one who created the whole universe and makes it all work together. Though the sin we brought into the world causes a lot of problems, it won’t be around forever. Jesus died and rose again to save the world from sin, and He has a purpose for everything—including you! Trust Him and His plan for your life. (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News? ) Today’s key verse: For by [Jesus] all things were created…All things were created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:16 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: God created everything with a purpose

Read: Psalm 126:1-6 “I met a new friend today, Daddy. She gave me her peach!” Charity reported gleefully. She grabbed her dad’s hand as they walked to their new apartment from her bus stop. “Your first day at a new school, and already a new friend? Awesome!” Daddy answered. “Tell me about your friend—and this peach.” Charity skipped to keep up with Daddy’s long legs. “Slow down, Daddy, and I’ll tell you!” Immediately Daddy shortened his stride. “Her name’s Esther. She gets free lunch in the cafeteria like me! But Esther doesn’t like peaches. When I asked for the one on her tray, she gave it to me. I couldn’t let it go to waste!” They climbed the steps to their apartment. Daddy laughed. “I know you like canned peaches. We have a couple of cans from the food bank. That can be today’s snack.” Daddy opened the apartment door. “God answered two prayers for you today, Charity—for a good day at a new school, and for a friend.” Charity took off her school shoes and exchanged them for soft slippers. “You told me when I gave my life to Jesus last year that I could talk to Him anytime, about anything. He heard me, Daddy!” Daddy pulled out a can opener. “He also showed us something important with Esther’s peach.” “He did?” “Yep. Even though Esther doesn’t like peaches, you didn’t want good food to be wasted. Sometimes we go through hard times, and even though we don’t like those struggles, God isn’t willing to let them go to waste.” “God wants us to struggle?” Charity sounded confused. “No, but He brings good out of difficult times. Jesus went through the most difficult thing of all when He died on the cross, and He did that to do the best thing we could ever imagine—save us from sin and make us God’s children. And He promises to use hard things in our lives for good.” “Like having to say goodbye to old friends and leaving our old neighborhood?” Charity asked. Daddy nodded. “God understands how hard that is, and we can trust Him to bring something good out of it. Like today when He brought you a new friend.” Charity smiled. “And something else!” “What?” Daddy placed a bowl of juicy peaches on the table. “More peaches!” –Allison Wilson Lee How about you? Have you ever gone through tough times and wondered why God let it happen? We don’t always get answers to our “why” questions, but we can trust God in hard situations. God loves His children, and He’s good to us. He won’t let our struggles go to waste. He’ll bring something good out of sad circumstances as we grow in trusting Him. Today’s key verse: Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Psalm 126:5 (NIV) Today’s key thought: God brings good from hard times

Read: Psalm 33:13-22 Devin looked at the house plan his mom was studying. “I still think you could remove the mudroom and make my bedroom bigger,” he said. Mom smiled. “I think we’ll trust the designer’s plan. We’ll find something to do with that space.” That afternoon, Devin’s shoulders slumped as he walked into the house. “I can’t believe my best friend moved. School’s not the same without Trav.” Mom put down the flooring samples she was holding and gave Devin a hug. “I know it’s hard, Dev. Jesus knows it too, and He loves you and promises to be with you. We just have to trust that God has a plan and will use hard things in our lives for good.” Devin didn’t see how any of this could be God’s plan. At school the next day, Devin was trying to choose a spot to have lunch when he saw a table with just one kid at it. He walked to the table and looked at the girl who sat alone. He didn’t remember seeing her before. “Can I sit here?” The girl looked up and smiled. “Sure. No one else wants to sit by the new kid.” Her smile went away. “No one even talks to me. It’s like no one sees me.” Devin grabbed a chair. “I could use a friend too.” At home, Devin was excited to tell his mom about Ashley. “If Trav was there, we wouldn’t have sat by a girl,” he said. “But she needed a friend. Maybe that was God’s plan, like you said. Maybe Trav had to go away so that Ashley wouldn’t feel lonely.” Devin looked at the papers his mom was holding. She seemed to be making another tough decision between multiple options for the new house, but what were they? Mom held up the papers. “Which crate do we want?” “Crate?” Devin asked. Mom nodded. “The mudroom in the floor plan got me thinking…what if we finally got that dog you’ve been wanting?” “For real?” Devin jumped up and down. “For real.” Mom put her arms around him. “And I’m proud of you for being a friend to Ashley. Once this plan is complete, maybe she can come meet your new pet.” Devin grinned. Maybe he could trust both floor plans and God’s plans. –Emily Acker How about you? Have you ever had something happen in your life that made you wonder if God really cares about you? We all go through difficult things in life, but God can use them to work out His good plan in ways we couldn’t imagine. When life is hard, remember that Jesus understands what you’re going through and promises to be with you. Then trust Him to work out the plan He has for your life. Today’s key verse: Those who know your name trust in you, for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you. Psalm 9:10 (NIV) Today’s key thought: You can always trust God’s plan

Read: Matthew 4:1-11 “I’ll probably fail our math test today,” Carter told Lucy as they walked to school. “I’m really bad at multiplication.” “Yeah, me too,” said Lucy. “But I’m not going to fail. Want to know why?” She slid a card from under the cuff of her sleeve. “See? The multiplication tables are all right here!” She grinned. “I’ve got an extra card. Want it?” She pulled a card from her pocket and offered it to Carter. “That’s cheating,” Carter said. “What’s worse, cheating or failing?” asked Lucy. Carter took the card and looked at it. It would be so easy to cheat! he thought. My desk is near the back of the room, and Mr. Collins hardly ever walks around when we have a test. But… “I’m not going to do it,” he said, handing the card back to Lucy. “I don’t think you should either. It’s not right.” Lucy rolled her eyes. “You are dumb,” she replied, “and not just in math!” At the end of the day, Carter hurried home. “How was school today?” his mother asked. “Okay,” Carter replied. “But I don’t know if I passed my math test. I hope so!” “Well, if you studied and did your best, don’t worry about it,” said Mom. “Did anything good happen today?” “Well…” Carter hesitated. “This is gonna sound weird, but I actually felt good about taking the test. I had a chance to cheat, but I didn’t. I knew it’d be wrong and that Jesus wouldn’t want me to do it. So I decided to trust Him with my test and do the right thing.” “Good for you!” Mom said. “No matter what grade you get on your math test, you definitely passed one test today. You were tempted to do something wrong, but you didn’t. That kind of test is really hard to pass sometimes. Jesus faced tests like that when He was on earth, and He passed every single one in order to save us. We can pass them too when we depend on Him to help us resist temptation—and even when we do give in, He’ll always forgive us since He paid for all our sins on the cross.” Carter grinned. “I’ll remember that tomorrow when I take my history test!” –Douglas G. DeVries How about you? Do people sometimes encourage you to do things that are wrong? It can be hard to resist, especially when others make fun of you for it. But you don’t have to give in. Jesus always passed tests of temptation, and He’ll help you pass them too. And when you do give in, you can always go to Him for forgiveness. Trust Him to give you the wisdom and courage to do what is right. Today’s key verse: God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Resist temptation

Read: Romans 12:9-15 “What’s wrong, Elijah?” Mom asked as Elijah got in the car. Elijah sighed. “Mrs. Lewis told our class that Henry won’t be in school for a few days. His dad had a heart attack and died early this morning.” Mom gasped. “Oh no! That’s awful.” Elijah nodded. “Principal Brown came and told us he went to Henry’s house this morning. He said Henry and his mom and little brother are very sad. Then he and Mrs. Lewis let us ask questions and talk for a while.” Elijah paused. “Mom, why did this happen? What are they going to do?” Mom shook her head. “I don’t know. Is there something you want to do for them now?” “I want to see Henry. He’s my best friend. Can we go to their house?” “Okay, but first let’s make a meal for them,” Mom said. Elijah and his mom made a pot of sloppy joes and put the whole meal in a basket. In the car, Elijah said, “Mom, let’s pray for Henry and his family.” Mom stopped the car at the end of the driveway, and they prayed for God to help the family. Elijah also asked Jesus to give him words to comfort his friend. Henry greeted them at the door. “We brought you dinner,” Elijah said, and he carried the basket to the kitchen. Elijah and Henry slipped out to the porch while their moms talked in the house. “Henry, I’m so sorry. What can I do?” “I don’t even know. I miss Dad so much already.” Henry covered his face, wiping away tears. “When Mom said something was wrong this morning, I prayed Dad would be okay. Now I don’t know what’s going to happen to us.” “I don’t know what’s going to happen either, but I do know that Jesus loves you and will be with you through all of this. He understands how hard it is, and you always have hope in Him.” Elijah put a hand on his friend’s shaking shoulder. “I’ll be here for you too. Let me know if there’s anything I can do. I’ll be praying for you and your family.” Henry closed his eyes and took a deep breath. “Thanks, Elijah.” –Lynda Boucher How about you? Do you have a friend who is hurting? Perhaps someone they love has died or they’re facing a difficult situation. Things like that can really hurt a person’s heart, and they need the love and support of their friends. Help them in whatever ways you can, and let them know you’re praying for them. Even though you won’t have all the answers, you can remind them of the hope they have in Jesus. Today’s key verse: Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. Galatians 6:2 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: Help friends who are hurting

Read: Ephesians 6:13-17; Hebrews 4:12-13 “We had a missionary from Guatemala in my class today,” Maverick said as his family drove home from church. “He showed us a machete. It was big—and he said it was very sharp.” “What’s a shetty?” asked Maverick’s little sister. “Not shetty , Charis— machete ,” Maverick corrected her. “It’s something like a sword. It can be used as a weapon, but the missionary said people in Guatemala use machetes to whack tall grasses and scoop out clumps of dirt when they’re planting crops. They use them to cut sugar cane and other plants too.” He smiled. “They sound really useful. I’d like to have one!” “What would you do with it?” asked Charis. “You don’t need a shet…a mush…a sword. Why don’t they just call it a sword?” Dad chuckled. “We have several swords in our house. Did you know that?” “Yeah,” said Mom. “In fact, you each own one.” Charis couldn’t believe that. “No, we don’t! I definitely don’t have a sword, and neither does Maverick.” “Yes, you do!” Dad said. “Maverick has one in his hand right now.” Charis looked at the Bible Maverick was holding. “That’s a Bible!” Dad grinned. “Right. And the Bible is called the sword of the Spirit. It can cut through the lies and excuses we tell ourselves and point out our sin.” Mom nodded. “For instance, before I became a Christian, I thought I was better than everyone else. I’d look at people and be glad my life wasn’t like theirs. But then a friend gave me a Bible, and when I started reading it, I realized I wasn’t good at all. God’s Word showed me all the ways I’d sinned against Him and how I could only be saved through Jesus, who died to take the punishment I deserve. It’s what led me to put my trust in Him. Now when I read the Bible, the Holy Spirit continues to show me things I’ve done wrong that I need to confess and ways I’m trying to do things on my own instead of trusting God. He’s using it to help me turn from sin and rest in God’s love and grace.” “See?” said Dad. “The Bible really is sharp—sharp enough to pierce our hearts and show us how much we need Jesus.” –Janice M. Jones How about you? Have you ever been convicted of something as you read the Bible? Did it cut through your defenses and show you sin in your life? The Bible can pierce our hearts and show us our sin, but it also tells us that Jesus died and rose again so we could be saved. Trust Him to free you from sin. (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News? ) Then keep reading the Bible and trust God to use it to make you more like Jesus. Today’s key verse: [God’s word] is sharper than the sharpest sword and cuts all the way into us…It judges the thoughts and feelings in our hearts. Hebrews 4:12 (ERV) Today’s key thought: The Bible pierces hearts

Read: 1 Corinthians 11:23-27 “Hey, Dad,” said Parker as he and his family were on their way home from a visit with their grandmother, “what do you want written on your tombstone?” “What a question!” said Mom. “Why are you asking that?” Parker laughed. “While you were visiting with Grandma, Sadie and I went to the cemetery across the street, remember? There were some interesting things carved on the grave markers—like little sayings or poems. I was just wondering what you’d want on yours someday.” “I think I’d like a Bible verse,” Dad said. “I want people to remember that my hope is in Jesus.” “Why do people put flowers on graves?” asked Sadie. “It’s an expression of love for the person who died,” said Mom. “They do it in memory of that person, and it comforts them as they remember who that person was and what they did.” “That reminds me of the memorial service we have at church,” Dad said. “Memorial service?” Parker asked. “At our church? What service is that?” “The communion service,” replied Dad. “The Bible tells us to observe it in memory of Jesus and all He did for us. We’re reminded of His life and death and that He rose from the grave.” “And also that He’s coming again,” Mom said. Sadie nodded thoughtfully. “Why don’t we bring flowers for Him, like people do at the cemetery?” she asked. “Or write something about Jesus on a tombstone?” “Jesus isn’t dead, so He doesn’t need a tombstone!” said Parker. “But I guess we could bring flowers—like people do at Easter.” “Well, Jesus actually gave special instructions on how to remember Him,” Dad said. “The bread and cup—symbols of His body and blood—are reminders of the sacrifice He made so we could be saved from sin.” “Jesus sacrificed so much for us, but we often take it for granted,” said Mom. “That’s why communion is so important.” “Next time we have a communion service, I’m going to think about Him and thank Him for what He did,” said Parker. “Why wait till then?” asked Sadie. “We can thank Him right now too!” –A. W. Smith How about you? Did you know that communion is a special time to fix your thoughts on Jesus and what He’s done for you? Think about how holy He is and the great sacrifice He made for you out of love. Thank Him for dying on the cross and rising from the grave so you could be free from sin and have eternal life. Remember that He’s coming again and will always be with you. Today’s key verse: As often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes. 1 Corinthians 11:26 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: Remember what Jesus did for you

Read: Psalm 121 “Why are we making a scarecrow for the garden?” Cora asked her grandma as she put in some more stuffing. “Well, the scarecrow helps keep the garden safe from crows. The crows love to pull up the sprouts just as they’re popping out of the ground, but when they see the scarecrow, they’re afraid to come into the garden.” “So the scarecrow is pretty important. I think we should name him,” Cora said. “Let’s call him Patrick, Protector of the Garden.” “I like that name,” Grandma replied. When they finished putting the scarecrow together, Grandma and Cora carried him to the center of the garden and set him up. “Okay, Patrick, protect our garden!” Cora exclaimed as she gave him a salute. Grandma smiled. “Now let’s go have some lemonade and cookies.” Grandma got a tray of cookies and two glasses of lemonade, and they went out and sat at the picnic table under the big shade tree. “Making the scarecrow was a lot of fun today,” Cora said as she took a bite of her cookie. “And having you here to help made it even more special for me,” said Grandma. “You know, each year when I make a scarecrow, I stop and think about how the Lord is always watching over me and protecting me. The scarecrow gives me a visual picture. He looks like he’s keeping watch in the center of the garden, and I envision the Lord keeping watch over me in the same way.” “But the scarecrow can’t actually see anything,” Cora said. “He just scares the crows away.” “Right,” said Grandma. “But God sees everything. Proverbs 15:3 says, ‘The Lord is watching everywhere, keeping his eye on both the evil and the good.’ God sees us, and He also loves us. He sent Jesus to save us from sin and evil and to be with us through all of life’s difficulties. So, Cora, if you ever feel like God is far away and you’re all alone, just stop and think of Patrick the Scarecrow and remember what the Bible says about God’s faithfulness to us.” “I will, Grandma.” Cora grinned. “Can I take Patrick home with me after the harvest?” Grandma chuckled. “I’m sure it will be fine, as long as you keep him outside.” –Lisa Fuller How about you? Do you ever feel like God is far away and doesn’t care about you? When you feel that way, open up your Bible. God’s Word is full of verses that will remind you of how much He loves you and His faithfulness to you. He sent His own Son, Jesus, to die for you, and He promises He will never leave you, even when bad things happen. Trust Him to watch over you. Today’s key verse: The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever. Psalm 121:8 (NLT) Today’s key thought: God watches over you

Read: Romans 10:9-14 “Mom, can I go play at the park with Logan?” asked Michael. Mom laughed. “Logan, Logan, Logan. Ever since you met him, all I hear is ‘Logan.’” “He’s lots of fun,” said Michael. “I think we’re going to be really good friends. It almost feels like he’s the brother I never had.” “Well, he seems like a nice kid,” said Mom. “Why don’t you invite him to come to church with us this week?” “Okay,” said Michael, “I will.” That evening, Michael was excited when he got home. “I invited Logan to church, and he said he’d come!” Later that week, Logan attended church with Michael and his mom. He came the next week too, and then the next, and the next. And then one Sunday, Logan trusted Jesus as his Savior. Several weeks later, Michael came home looking worried. “Logan and I were supposed to meet at the park this morning, but he didn’t show,” he told his mom. “I tried texting him, but he didn’t respond. I’d go to his place to make sure he’s okay, but I don’t know where he lives—he always came here or met me at the park.” “I’ll ask around,” said Mom. “Maybe I can find out what happened.” The next day, Mom had news. “I’m afraid Logan won’t be coming around anymore,” she said. “I found out his dad is wanted by the police. He apparently learned they were on his trail, and he packed up his family and took off. Seems he’s been on the go like that for a couple years.” Michael’s face crumpled as tears filled his eyes. “So I’m never going to see Logan again? But he was like…like…” “I know,” Mom said as she hugged him. “He was like a brother to you. And you know what? Because you both trust in Jesus, you are brothers in Christ. You’ve both been adopted by God. Maybe Logan will be able to get in touch with you someday, but even if you’re never able to reconnect with him in this lifetime, you’ll see him in heaven.” Michael wiped his eyes. “I’m glad I told him about Jesus. I’m going to pray for him, wherever he is.” “Good,” said Mom. “Let’s pray for him right now.” –Agnes Livezey How about you? Have you told your friends about Jesus? Do you pray for them? Being someone’s friend involves more than just having fun together. If you truly love them, tell them what Jesus has done for you and pray for them. Ask God to help them understand how they can become a part of His family too. If they already know Jesus as their Savior, pray for them as your brother or sister in Christ. Today’s key verse: How can they put their trust in [Jesus] if they have not heard of Him? Romans 10:14 (NLV) Today’s key thought: Share Jesus with your friends

Read: Job 12:9-13 Alicia tried to peel back her baby sister’s fingers. “Mom left me to watch you for five minutes, and you’re already trying to take something you shouldn’t.” Bella’s hands were in tight fists, and it was hard for Alicia to get back the little ball that belonged with her dollhouse. “You could choke on that. You don’t want it.” Alicia got her toy back and tried to get her sister settled with something safer. She was relieved when Mom came back and took Bella to get ready for their grandma’s birthday party. At the party, Alicia greeted her grandma then sat down to listen as her aunt thanked everyone for coming. “We have a question for you, Mom,” her aunt said. “As you’re turning seventy, do you have any advice for us?” Alicia’s grandma smiled. “Always live your life with open hands.” “What does that mean?” Alicia’s mom asked, moving to her aunt’s side. “Never hold on to anything in your life, thinking you can control it or that it’s yours,” Grandma said. “Always live with open hands, letting God have control. You don’t know what’s best for you, but God does. We can trust Him with our lives because Jesus gave His own life to save us. I am who I am because I’ve been trying to put my life in God’s hands year after year.” Alicia thought of her sister and her tight fists. The things that Bella tried to hold on to weren’t good or safe. She wanted those things, but she didn’t know they could hurt her. “You look deep in thought.” Mom stepped up to Alicia, Bella in her arms. “Mom…” Alicia stood. Her sister’s hands were in tight fists. With her mom’s help, she opened Bella’s hand and took a small stone away from her. “Where did you even get this?” Mom shook her head. “We should know that when she has her hands like that, she’s trying to keep something she shouldn’t have.” “That’s kind of like what Grandma was saying,” said Alicia. “We sometimes want to hold on to things when God knows they’re not good for us.” Mom nodded. “Grandma gave us good advice—to live with open hands and trust God to fill them with good things He wants for us.” –Emily Acker How about you? Do you live with open hands, trusting God to take care of you and direct your life the way He knows is best? Or do you try to control everything and hold on to the things you want, no matter what? We often want things God knows aren’t good for us. Instead of clenching on to what you want, put your life in God’s hands and trust Him to fill it with the things He knows are good for you. Today’s key verse: You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Live with open hands

Read: Psalm 37:23-24; Jeremiah 18:1-6 “I like coming to visit you, Grandma,” Olivia said as she sprayed more cleaner onto her rag. “It’s nice having you here,” said Grandma. “Miss Cindy was glad for your help with the younger children at youth camp. She wondered if you’d be interested in leading the children’s class at church this week.” She picked up a knick-knack to clean and winked. “You might become a great youth leader someday.” Olivia lowered her head. “I don’t know. I’m not sure God can use me for anything. My stubbornness gets me into trouble a lot.” “Hmm.” Grandma gazed down at the picture frame she was holding as she slowly wiped the glass. “Oh, Grandma, look!” Olivia giggled when she showed Grandma her soiled rag. “This shelf was really dusty.” “My goodness!” Grandma chuckled. “I guess it’s been a while since I last cleaned it. It reminds me how God can make great things out of dirt.” “What do you mean?” asked Olivia. “Well, doesn’t the Bible say we were made from the dust of the earth?” Grandma asked. Olivia nodded. “That means we’re made of dirt,” Grandma said. After the last shelf was cleaned and everything was put back, Grandma tapped her chin with her finger. “You know, Olivia, if God can use dirt to make something as beautiful and miraculous as a human being, just think what He can do with our faults and mistakes.” “Like what?” Olivia plopped onto the couch. “God can use them for good. That means not only forgiving our wrongs, which He does, but using them to help others see how Jesus has transformed us,” Grandma said, nestling into her rocker. “For example, He can use mistakes from our past to help us understand what others are going through and show them His love. Or He can take personality traits that sometimes get us into trouble and help us use them in a positive way instead.” She smiled at Olivia. “Like using someone’s stubborn streak to make them a strong spiritual leader who won’t back down when faced with difficulty.” “I never thought of it like that,” said Olivia. She smiled back at Grandma. “Maybe I’ll help Miss Cindy with the smaller children after all!” –Beth Anne Ingram How about you? Do you think God can’t use you because of your bad habits or past failures? Guess what—He can! He doesn’t let anything go to waste, but finds a way to put it to good use. He forgives your sins and uses the traits and experiences you have to develop qualities in you that help you show His love to others. Trust Him to use every part of you for good. Today’s key verse: He has made everything beautiful in its time. Ecclesiastes 3:11 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: Jesus can use our shortcomings

Read: Psalm 134; Colossians 3:17, 23-24 The church building was dark and empty. Mandy’s mom turned on all the lights. Mandy followed her down to the cleaning supply closet in the basement. “I’ll start in the bathrooms,” Mom said. “How about you mop and dust upstairs? And try to finish a little faster this week, okay?” Mandy wandered slowly upstairs with the mop, swinging the bucket and humming. As she dusted music stands on the stage, she looked out at empty seats and imagined them filled with smiling, clapping people who raised their hands in praise. She took her mop handle and, pretending it was a microphone, sang into it. She called to the pretend crowd, “Sing out! Everyone!” She dropped the mop, strummed an imaginary guitar, and jumped off the stage. On her landing, she raised her hands along with the clapping “crowd.” Suddenly she heard real clapping, and she looked up and saw Mom. Mom smiled. “Now I see why it takes you so long to clean.” “I’m sorry, Mom. I just wish I could be up there playing music and singing when real people are here. Mopping all alone doesn’t seem like it matters much to anybody. The singers and guitar players are the ones who really serve God.” “Did you know that God put a psalm in the Bible for people like us?” asked Mom. “They served in the temple at night.” “Really? Did anyone notice what they did?” “I don’t know, and I don’t know if anyone notices what we do, but God notices. He told night workers to lift up their hands and bless the Lord. God told all His servants to worship Him.” “Not just the music leaders?” “When you’re cleaning, you’re serving Him just as much as they are. The Bible tells us it’s not what we do, but how we do it, that matters to Jesus. He served us by leaving heaven and coming to earth to save us from sin, and when we do our work out of thankfulness and love, we’re serving and worshiping Him.” Mom picked up the mop and handed it back to Mandy. “Then I’d better do a good job!” Mandy swished the mop across the floor and made it shine. –Laura Roesler How about you? Do you feel like you’re worshiping when you’re cleaning or doing other chores behind the scenes at home or church? The Bible says to let everything you do be done in love (1 Corinthians 16:14). Whatever you do, day or night, can be done out of love for Jesus and others—including work that no one notices. Even if you serve in a way no one sees, Jesus sees you, and you can do it to thank Him for saving you and to honor Him. Today’s key verse: Oh, praise the Lord, all you servants of the Lord, you who serve at night in the house of the Lord. Psalm 134:1 (NLT) Today’s key thought: Worship God day and night

Read: Romans 6:11-14 James looked up from his job of pulling dandelions as his friend Alex pedaled his bike up the driveway. “Hey,” called Alex. “Let’s go to the splash pad at the park.” “Can’t,” James replied. “My mom says she’s sick of seeing yellow dandelions instead of green grass, and I have to get rid of them.” He held up the tool he was using. “I work around the plant with this so I can pull out the whole root—and they sure go deep!” He wiped his brow with a dirty hand. “It’s really hot too.” “Yeah,” said Alex. “Too hot to do it that way. Why not just cut the tops off? Here, I’ll help you. Then we can go cool off.” “Okay,” James said. The boys soon finished the job and were off to the park. Several times in the next few weeks, the dandelions sprouted back up and Mom sent James out to pull them again. Each time, he simply cut off the tops. One day Mom came out to talk to him. “I didn’t understand why we kept getting so many dandelions, but now I see the problem. You aren’t pulling them up by the roots the way I showed you.” “Oh,” said James, looking at the weeds in his hand. “I didn’t think it mattered as long as you couldn’t see them.” “But it does matter,” said Mom. “If the roots are still in the ground, the dandelions grow right back. You have to get rid of the whole thing—roots and all.” That evening, Dad heard about the returning dandelions. “That’s a good example of the way we sometimes treat sin in our lives,” he said. “If it isn’t seen by other people, we often think it doesn’t matter. But just because it isn’t visible to everyone else doesn’t mean it isn’t harmful. No matter how much we try to cover it up, it will keep popping back up in our lives, hurting us and others.” Dad looked at James. “Do you know how to root out sin instead of just trying to hide it?” James nodded. “We need Jesus.” “That’s right,” said Dad. “We need to confess any wrongs we’re trying to hide and remember that because Jesus has saved us and given us new life, sin has no power over us.” –A. W. Smith How about you? Is there a sin in your life you’re trying to keep covered so others won’t see it? No matter how you try to hide it, it will keep popping back up. It needs to be pulled up by the roots, and the only way to do that is to stop trying to hide it and remember that through Jesus you have the power to turn from sin. Trust Him to help you let go of sinful habits and live the new life He’s given you. Today’s key verse: Consider yourselves to be dead to the power of sin and alive to God through Christ Jesus. Romans 6:11 (NLT) Today’s key thought: Root out sin

Read: Psalm 34:15-17; 55:16-17 As Colin sat down to begin his homework, he heard his little sister whining in the kitchen. He began to study, but all the noise his sister was making distracted him. Then Colin heard his mother’s voice. “Kinsley, I want you to stop whining.” Colin returned to his homework, but soon he heard his sister again. Colin got up and went to the kitchen. “What’s wrong with Kinsley?” he asked. “I have tons of homework, and her whining is driving me crazy!” Kinsley made a face and threw a sock at Colin. “She wants someone to put her socks on for her,” Mom said. “But she knows how to do that herself,” said Colin. “Oh, well. I’ll help her just to make her be quiet!” “Hang on, Colin,” Mom said. “Kinsley also knows how to ask nicely for things. So far all she’s done is whine and throw her socks.” “Well, I don’t know if I can stand all the noise she’s making much longer,” Colin said. “I wonder if God ever feels that way,” Mom said thoughtfully. “It seems like we often whine and complain about things instead of praying about them.” Colin frowned. “You mean, instead of complaining, God wants me to pray about stuff like being bothered by the noise Kinsley’s been making?” “I was actually thinking of a problem I’ve been dealing with at work, but yes, God wants us to tell Him what’s bothering us and pray about everything.” Mom smiled. “Why don’t we pray now?” Mom and Colin bowed their heads. “Dear Father,” Mom prayed, “thank You for caring about all the details of our lives, and thank You for sending Jesus to die for us and make us your children so we can come to you in prayer about anything. Right now we ask You to help Kinsley—and all of us—learn to ask for help instead of whining about our problems. Please help each of us remember that You love us and know what’s best for us. Thank You for always listening to us.” After Mom finished praying, Kinsley walked up to her and held up her socks. “P’ease help me put my socks on, Mommy.” As Mom gave her a hug and knelt down to help her with her socks, Colin smiled and went back to his homework. –Dawn Yrene How about you? Do you pray about your problems? Or do you whine and complain instead of asking for help? God cares about you and wants you to talk to Him about what’s going on in your life. He may not always give quick solutions to your problems, but He’ll always help you and do what’s best. Tell Him what’s bothering you, and thank Him for the blessings He’s given you. He loves you and is always listening. Today’s key verse: Pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Philippians 4:6 (NLT) Today’s key thought: Pray about everything

Read: John 1:1-9; Romans 8:38-39 Reid came to a stop, panting. He’d been playing tag with his cousins for the last twenty minutes. They were playing outside while they watched the solar eclipse. He took advantage of the pause in play to grab his cardboard glasses, adjust them to cover his eyes, and look up at the sky. The sun was now half-covered by the moon. Reid knew that eventually the moon would completely cover the sun. It was supposed to be dark. Reid really didn’t like the dark. He looked around and felt comforted knowing his cousins were close by. The eclipse continued, and the sky grew steadily darker. As the eclipse approached totality, the time when the moon would completely cover the sun, Reid felt a chill run over his skin and realized the air was suddenly cooler. He felt the familiar fear of the dark, but then his cousins ran up and his aunt came outside, and he remembered he was not alone. He thought of something his Sunday school teacher had said—Jesus was with him in darkness. When his aunt told him the eclipse had reached totality, Reid looked up at the sun. He was surprised by what he saw. The sun was completely blocked by the moon, but a bright ring shone around the moon’s edges. Reid suddenly remembered what his teacher told him the day before—the ring was the sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona . The moon wasn’t big enough to block the corona! Reid looked around, realized that there was still enough light to play tag, and took off after his cousins. That night, Reid told his dad about the eclipse. “I was surprised by the brightness of the corona that shone from behind the moon,” he said. Dad looked at him thoughtfully. “It makes me think of the light of Jesus, which shines even in darkness.” Reid smiled. “Dad, I felt Jesus with me today, even in the darkness!” Dad squeezed Reid’s shoulder. “Satan tries his hardest to block out Jesus with the darkness of this world, but he just can’t do it. Like the sun with its corona, Jesus shines so bright that He always overcomes darkness. He came into the world to free us from sin and give us His light, and nothing can ever separate us from His love.” –Chelsea Mohler How about you? Did you know that no darkness in this world can block out Jesus’s light? If you’re facing a frightening situation, Jesus promises to be with you. If you’re struggling with sin and guilt, Jesus offers you forgiveness and gives you the power to turn from sin. If you’re feeling sad, He will comfort you. Remember that He is always with you, shining the light of His love into your life. Today’s key verse: The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. John 1:5 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Nothing can block Jesus’s light

Read: Proverbs 16:16-20 “Has anyone seen my math book?” asked Aria. “I can’t find it anywhere.” But no one had seen it, and Aria finally remembered she had left it at Zoe’s house. My perfect homework record will be ruined! she thought miserably. She always had her homework done at the beginning of class each day. Maybe if I stayed home sick tomorrow, I could make up the lesson . So the next morning, she pretended to have a stomachache and went back to bed while her family got ready for school and work—except for Mom, who insisted on staying home with her. That afternoon, Aria’s sister brought her math book home from school. “Zoe sent this,” she said. “She wondered if you were going to try to come to choir practice tonight. If you can’t, she’ll have to sing that solo part, and she doesn’t know it that well.” Oh no! I forgot all about choir , Aria thought. I really do want to go, and I’m tired of lying in bed . So Aria announced that she felt better. Mom wasn’t convinced. “If you were so sick that you had to miss school, you’d better stay home the rest of the day too.” That evening, Mom found Aria sobbing into her pillow. “What’s wrong, Aria? Do you feel worse?” Aria shook her head. “I wanted to go to choir practice. I’m not sick. I wasn’t sick this morning either,” she said through a sob. “I just didn’t want to ruin my perfect homework record.” Mom sat down on the bed. “You may not be sick, but you sure took a fall. You wanted your homework record to be perfect so everyone would think highly of you, right?” Aria sniffed. “I guess so.” “That’s pride,” said Mom. “Your pride caused you to fall—to tell a lie rather than let others see you as less than perfect. Pride is harmful because it causes us to hide our flaws and our constant need for Jesus’s grace—from both ourselves and others.” Aria hung her head. “I’m sorry, Mom.” Mom gave her a hug. “I forgive you—and Jesus will forgive you too. Trust Him to help you let go of your pride so you can help others see how much we all need Him.” –Agnes Livezey How about you? Are you proud? Do you do things just to impress others? It’s okay to want to look your best or do well in school or sports, but when you’re willing to do anything—even something you know is wrong—to keep others from seeing your flaws, that’s pride. Ask Jesus to forgive you and to help you root out pride in your life. Then be honest about your shortcomings and your need for Him. Today’s key verse: Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. Proverbs 16:18 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: Don’t be proud

Read: 1 Peter 5:6-11 The broom swished across the kitchen floor as Mom worked to gather the crumbs and dirt from under the table. Ethan, Evan, and Everett sat nearby watching. “Wow, Mom,” Everett said. “That’s a lot of crumbs.” Mom laughed. “That’s what happens when three hungry boys live here.” She swept everything into a little pile, then walked over to the wall. With a whoosh , the hidden vacuum inside the wall sucked every last crumb away. “Whoa!” Evan’s eyes went wide. “Where did it all go?” “It’s like a secret vacuum in the wall,” Mom explained. “When we built this house, Dad had it installed. All I have to do is sweep dirt close enough, and it’s gone.” “That’s awesome,” Ethan said. “So…why do you still use the dustpan?” Mom smiled. “Because sometimes I forget about the vacuum. I do all the work, scooping up dirt into the dustpan, when the vacuum is right here, ready to help.” Mom leaned on her broom. “You know,” she continued, “that reminds me of Jesus. He’s always with us, ready to take our sin, worries, and junk. But sometimes, I forget. I try to handle everything on my own, like using the dustpan when the vacuum is right there. Jesus is so much better at handling my mess than I am.” “Do you have to keep asking Him to save you over and over?” Everett asked. “No,” Mom said gently. “When you put your trust in Jesus, He saves you once and for always. But, like floors that keep getting dirty, our hearts pick up things every day—like bad attitudes, selfishness, or worries. I need to keep bringing those things to Him. Some struggles He takes away for good; others I bring to Him again and again. But He never gets tired of helping me, and He always forgives me when I confess my sins to Him.” “So, like the vacuum in our wall, Jesus is always here and always ready to help us, and He’s way better at cleaning than we are,” said Ethan. “Exactly,” Mom said with a grin. “We just have to remember He’s with us and bring Him our mess.” The boys all nodded. “I like that,” Evan said. “And I really like the vacuum.” Mom laughed again. “Me too, bub. Me too.” –LaVerne Vest How about you? Do you try to clean up life’s messes on your own? Or do you bring them to Jesus? Think about one “mess” you’ve carried this week—maybe you got angry with a sibling, struggled with your homework, or had an argument with a friend. Instead of holding it in or working hard to handle it on your own, talk to Jesus. Tell Him about your worries, struggles, and shortcomings. Then trust Him to forgive any wrongs and to help you with difficulties. Today’s key verse: Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. 1 Peter 5:7 (NLT) Today’s key thought: Jesus takes your mess

Read: Psalm 139:13-18; Ephesians 2:8-10 After church, Elizabeth and Mom climbed into the car. “I liked my class today,” Elizabeth said. “It was lots of fun.” “Good,” said Mom. “Tell me about it.” “We learned about a Bible story, and we sang some songs.” Elizabeth began to hum one of them. Mom grinned. “I know that song! I think it’s one of the first ones you learned. Let’s sing it.” So together they sang the words: “Jesus loves me, this I know.” Elizabeth stopped singing and looked at her mom. “Does God really love me?” she asked. “Of course He does!” Mom said. “God loves you very much.” “Why?” asked Elizabeth. “Why does He love me?” “Well, think of it this way.” Mom pointed to a picture Elizabeth held in her hand. “I see you have a picture full of flowers and trees and nice green grass. That picture is special to you, isn’t it? Why do you like it so much?” Elizabeth looked at her drawing. “I made it in class today,” she said proudly. Mom smiled and nodded. “It’s something like that with God. He made us, and that’s one reason why we’re very special to Him. It’s one of the reasons He loves us.” “So God loves me the way I love my picture?” Elizabeth asked. “Well, I know your picture is special to you, but you know what? You’re more special to God than that. Much more! He loves you even more than I do.” Elizabeth gazed at her picture. “Whoa,” she said. “That’s a lot, isn’t it, Mom?” “Yes, it is,” said Mom. “God loves us all so much that He sent Jesus, His very own Son, to die for our sins and make us His children. That’s another reason He loves us—because we belong to Him. When we trust in Jesus, He makes us new people and helps us share His love with others. The Bible calls us His handiwork—His masterpiece or artwork.” When they got home, Mom helped Elizabeth put her artwork on her bedroom wall where she could see it every morning when she woke up. And every morning it reminded her that God made her and that she was special to Him. –Karen E. Cogan How about you? Is there something that’s special to you because you made it? Well, God made you, and you’re very special to Him. In fact, God loves you so much that He sent His Son to die so you could be His child. Do you love Him too? Have you trusted Jesus as your Savior? Don’t wait any longer. Put your trust in the one who made you and loves you. (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News? ) Today’s key verse: For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) Today’s key thought: God made you and loves you

Read: Luke 6:27-36 “Muffie!” yelled two-year-old Reya as she toddled into the living room. She plunked down on the floor next to Muffin, the family dog. Reya reached out a chubby hand and pulled Muffin’s fluffy brown tail. Muffin didn’t bite or even growl. She just moved away as quickly as she could, lying down by the fireplace. Reya followed. She tugged on Muffin’s ear. “Nice doggie,” she cooed. Muffin still didn’t growl or bite. Instead, she licked Reya’s knee with her rough tongue. “Careful, Reya,” said Mom. She walked over, gently loosened the little girl’s hand, and helped her stroke the dog’s head. “Be nice to Muffin.” “Why does Muffin put up with all that torture?” asked Charlotte, who was sitting on the sofa with a book. “No matter how many times Reya pulls her tail or ears, Muffin puts up with it and doesn’t even growl at her.” “Muffin loves Reya, just like she loves the rest of our family,” Mom replied. Charlotte nodded. “Muffin sure is a good dog. I wouldn’t be so nice if I were her!” “We’re blessed to have a faithful dog who is so loving and patient with Reya,” said Mom. She smiled as Reya laid her head down on Muffin’s back. “Muffin is a good example of how we all should treat other people—even those who don’t treat us well.” “Like when people are mean to us?” Charlotte asked. “Yes,” said Mom. “We need to do what the Bible teaches and show them love. Instead of trying to get even, we need to talk with them and resolve our issues in a calm way. Many times, people who hurt us don’t mean to—just like Reya doesn’t mean to hurt Muffin. But even when they’re mean to us on purpose, Jesus wants us to do good to them. He died to save us from sin when we were His enemies, and He wants us to treat others with the same kind of love. It’s not easy, but He promises to help us show His love to everyone.” Charlotte smiled. “Love like Muffin’s?” Mom smiled too. “Love even greater than that. Jesus is the only one who can give us humans the kind of love we need to treat others the way we’d like to be treated ourselves.” –Wanda E. Brunstetter How about you? Do you treat others the way you’d want to be treated? The key verse for today is called the Golden Rule, and it’s one of Jesus’s greatest commands. It can be hard to follow when someone treats you badly, but remember that Jesus was treated badly too. He died on a cross so He could save you! Trust Him to fill your heart with His love so you can treat others the way He would. Today’s key verse: Do for other people what you would like to have them do for you. Luke 6:31 (NLV) Today’s key thought : Love like Jesus

Read: James 5:16-18 “I wish I had a hundred dollars to put in the offering tomorrow!” Isabella told her mom. “The missionaries we’re collecting money for really need it, and I want to help them care for people and tell them about Jesus.” “If you’ll clean the cupboards for me this afternoon, I’ll pay you—not a hundred dollars, but a little,” said Mom. “Have you prayed about the money you’d like to give?” “Prayed for a hundred dollars?” asked Isabella. “No.” “You should,” Mom said. “Trust God to provide whatever amount He wants you to give.” Isabella was cleaning the cupboards when her friend Lillian came over. “I can play as soon as I finish cleaning this cupboard,” Isabella told Lillian. She sat down and looked at the cupboard. “I wish I was done.” “Well, I’ll help you,” said Lillian. “That’ll do more good than wishing.” “I know.” Isabella stood up. “I’m always wishing for things, and Mom keeps telling me that wishing doesn’t help. Praying does. So guess what I’m praying for now? A hundred dollars for the missionary offering!” She got down on her hands and knees to pull out something that was stuck in a corner of the cabinet. “Look,” she said, holding up an old penny. “This must be the start of the answer to my prayers!” The girls laughed at the joke. The next morning, the only offering Isabella had was the old penny and the money Mom had paid her. All together, it was far from a hundred dollars. That afternoon Lillian came over looking excited. “My dad helped count the offering this morning,” she told Isabella, “and he noticed that old penny. He collects coins, and he says it’s valuable—he said it might be worth over a hundred dollars! When I told Dad you were the one who gave it, he said I should tell you and give you a chance to take it back. Otherwise he can sell it and give the money to the missionaries.” She stopped to catch her breath. “So? Do you want it back?” Isabella stared at her in amazement. “Of course I don’t want it back! I’m giving it to the missionary offering, whatever it’s worth.” She grinned. “I prayed for money to give, and God answered my prayer in a way I never expected!” –Agnes Livezey How about you? Are there things you wish were different? It doesn’t help to just wish for things. When you stop wishing and start praying, things happen. God works wonders when His people pray. That doesn’t mean He will always answer your prayers the way you want, but He will use your prayers to help you grow in your faith and show His love to those around you. Pray and trust Him to use your prayers for good. Today’s key verse: The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective. James 5:16 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Pray and trust God