Sermons4Kids

[Soldier4Christ]

"Mom, come and see!" Doug called. "It looks like robins are building a nest over the porch." His mother hurried to join him, and together they watched a pair of robins fly back and forth with grass, moss, and small twigs in their beaks.

Several days later, Doug noticed that the mother bird was nearly always sitting on the nest. He couldn't see into it, but he was sure there must be eggs inside. After a couple of weeks, he saw the pair of robins carrying worms to the nest, and he heard peeping sounds. "They've hatched!" he exclaimed. "I wonder how many there are."

Doug's grandfather came for a visit a few days later. "Hi, Grandpa," said Doug. "Remember the robin's nest I told you about? Come see it!" Doug led the way down the back porch steps and pointed to the nest.

Soon the mother robin arrived, and Doug and Grandpa watched as three little bald heads bobbed up, three little mouths opened wide, and one of them received some food. Doug grinned. "They've been getting stronger all the time," he said. "I can't wait to watch them learn to fly." He grinned as the father robin appeared, and the mouths opened wide again.

"It will be interesting," agreed Grandpa as he and Doug sat down on the steps. "I'm just thinking . . ." added Grandpa after a moment. "What do you suppose would happen if those baby robins wouldn't open their mouths for food?"

"Well . . . I guess they'd never get strong enough to fly," answered Doug.

Grandpa smiled at his grandson. "Smart boy. Now, I have another question for you. What do you think happens when we Christians don't open our hearts and minds to take in the milk and meat of God's Word-the spiritual food He gives to make us stronger Christians?"

Doug grinned. "Smart Grandpa," he said teasingly. "You're reminding me to read my Bible every day, right?" Doug hugged his knees. "I know I should do that, but it's really hard sometimes. I'm pretty busy with school work and sports."

Grandpa put his arm around Doug's shoulders. "You need food to give you physical strength for all your activities. And you need God's Word to give you spiritual strength and to help you grow as a Christian."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you "opening wide" to take in the spiritual food God wants to give you? Do you read your Bible daily and listen carefully when you attend church and Sunday school? God has good "food" in His Word for you-promises, lessons, encouragement, warnings, and much more. Spend time with Him daily-reading, praying, and then obeying what He shows you in the Bible. Learn all you can when you hear God's Word explained. As you do that, you'll grow strong in your Christian life.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
I am the Lord your God . . . Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it. Psalm 81:10

[Soldier4Christ]

"Oh, no!" murmured Kyle when he heard that his cousin Robby was coming to visit for the weekend.

Mom frowned. "I thought you liked Robby," she said.

"It's not that I don't like him," said Kyle. "It's just that he always gets me into trouble."

"Careful, Son," said Mom. "If you get into trouble, don't blame someone else."

"But Robby always wants to do . . . ah . . . stuff," said Kyle weakly, "and it's so hard to tell him no."

"If the 'stuff' he wants to do is wrong, it's your responsibility to say no," said Mom firmly. "Depend on the Lord to help you with that."

Kyle sighed. Robby often had ideas that Kyle knew displeased his parents-and the Lord. A recent Sunday school lesson popped into his mind. Jesus was tempted, too, remembered Kyle, so He'll understand the problem I have. Jesus never gave in, and I'm going to ask Him to help me not give in, either!

As Kyle expected, from the moment Robby arrived, he was full of plans. "Hey, Kyle, those kids next door are having a picnic" whispered Robby. "Let's take the hose and squirt water over the fence. Boy, will they be surprised!"

Kyle grinned and started to pick up the hose, but then he stopped. He knew his parents had been witnessing to those neighbors, and besides, he knew it was wrong anyway. "No, Robby," he said, shaking his head, "we shouldn't do that." Robby frowned, but Kyle didn't give in.

All weekend, Robby suggested various things. Some were fun, but Kyle knew it would be wrong to do some of the others. For instance, it would be wrong to secretly paint pictures on the neighbor's sidewalk-that would be hurting someone else's property. It would also be wrong to read his sister's diary. Kyle knew everyone should respect the privacy of other people. So even though Robby coaxed, Kyle continued to say "no."

"I made it!" said Kyle in relief after Robby had gotten on the train to go home. "I didn't yield to Robby's tempting once. I asked God to help me say no, and He did!"


HOW ABOUT YOU?
What do you do when a friend tries to get you to do something wrong? Giving in to temptation might seem like fun at the moment, so sometimes it's hard to say no. Jesus understands what you're going through. When you're tempted to play nasty tricks, to cheat just a little, to read something not meant for your eyes-or whatever the temptation is-you can tell Jesus about it. If you sincerely ask for help to overcome the temptation, He will give it.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
God is faithful, who . . . with the temptation will also make the way of escape. 1 Corinthians 10:13

[Soldier4Christ]

"It sure has rained a lot," said Andy as he and Pete dodged a mud puddle.

"Yeah," replied Pete. "I dare you to try and jump over that puddle without getting wet."

"Nothing to it," declared Andy. He studied the puddle, backed off a few steps and then began running. Just before he jumped, he hesitated a little, and the next thing he knew, he landed right in the middle of the puddle.

Pete laughed. "I thought maybe you were going to make it after all," he said. "What made you miss?"

"I thought I'd make it, too," replied Andy, "but just when I got up to the puddle, a mosquito flew in my face. I slapped at it, and it threw me off balance." He eyed his muddy clothes. "I sure hope my mom doesn't get mad when she sees me," he added. "I'm a mess."

"Yeah . . . but better you than me," muttered Pete. "Your mother is so understanding and . . . and peaceful." He sighed. "What good are mosquitoes, do you suppose? Sometimes I even wonder what good I am." Andy just stood there, not sure what he should say. "I've gotta get home," added Pete, "or my mom will say, 'Where is that boy?' Then I'll be in trouble even if I'm not muddy." Andy laughed at Pete's imitation of his mother's voice, and the boys hurried home.

"Pete and you are together a lot," said Andy's mom when she heard what Pete had said. "Have you ever told him about Jesus and invited him to Sunday school?"

"No," said Andy, "but I've thought about it." He remembered their conversation and knew he'd had opportunities to witness. I could have told Pete one reason Mom is calm and understanding is because she's a Christian, he thought. I could have said God has a purpose for everything, even mosquitoes-and that He has a plan for Pete's life, too. I could have told Pete he can even have eternal life. But he had kept still.

"Is it okay if I call Pete and invite him over for supper?" he asked. "There are some things I have to talk to him about."

Mom smiled. "Sure," she said. "Give him a call."

Andy headed for the phone.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you watch for opportunities to witness to your friends? Pray about it, and you'll be surprised how often they come your way. When they do, don't be silent. Speak up when you have a chance to share the Gospel. Tell your friends about the Lord. Ask them to join you at church and Sunday school or Bible club. They need to know that they can have eternal life, too. They need an invitation to come to Jesus.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
We cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard. Romans 10:14

[Soldier4Christ]

Andy was determined to witness to his friend Pete, though he didn't really know just what to say. I could invite him to Sunday school . . . but I'm sure Pete would think that's for little kids. What else could I tell him? he wondered.

"What are you doing tomorrow?" asked Pete when they finished a game.

"I'm . . . going to Sunday school. Want to come along?" asked Andy hesitantly.

Pete shrugged. "Why do you go all the time?" he asked.

"Well . . . to learn about Jesus," replied Andy. "He . . . He loves us."

"He does?" asked Pete. "Why?"

As the boys talked, Andy was surprised to find that it wasn't as hard to witness as he had expected it-and that Pete was interested. Pete accepted the invitation to Sunday school, and it wasn't long before he attended regularly. It was only a little longer before he accepted Jesus' invitation and trusted Him as Savior.

Early one morning, Andy's mother came into his bedroom. Andy could tell that something was wrong. "I have very sad news to tell you," she said, sitting down on the edge of his bed. "Pete . . . Pete died."

"What?" Andy sat up straight. He could not believe his ears!

"His mother just called," said Mom. "While Pete was playing near the river in the woods last evening, he lost his balance and fell in. He apparently hit his head, and he drowned."

"It can't be!" sobbed Andy. "We have plans for today." His mom hugged him. "Mom, where is Pete?" Andy asked suddenly. "Is he in heaven?"

"Well, was Pete a Christian?" asked Mom.

"Sure," said Andy. "So he's gone to heaven, right? He asked Jesus to save him after Sunday school a few of weeks ago. Don't you remember?"

"Yes, I remember." Mom nodded. "Since Pete trusted Jesus as Savior, his soul is in heaven now. He's with Jesus, and we'll be there with him some day."

"And if Pete hadn't become a Christian, he'd be lost-he'd be in hell now." Andy shuddered at the very thought. "I'm so glad I finally told him about Jesus." He took the tissue his mother handed him and wiped his eyes. Mom put her arms around Andy as he again broke into great sobs. "I'll miss him so much, but I'm so glad I'll see him in heaven some day."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
If you suddenly died today, where would you go? If you've accepted the invitation to trust in Jesus as Savior, you'd go to heaven, but if you haven't trusted in Him, you'd be lost in hell. That's not at all pleasant to think about, but it's true. Make sure you are ready-that you're among those who will go into eternal life. Trust Jesus as Savior-don't wait another day! You never know what may happen before then. Receive Jesus into your life right now.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
These (unsaved) will go away into everlasting punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. Matthew 25:46

[Soldier4Christ]

Amanda panted as she tugged and pulled to get her Labrador puppy to go into the house. Prince was only six months old, but he was strong and already weighed half as much as Amanda. Mom looked up from setting the table and smiled. "I'm not sure who took who for a walk," she said.

Amanda frowned. "Prince makes me so mad," she complained. "When I take him for a walk, he pulls on the leash the whole way. He acts like he knows where he's going! If I let him go wherever he wants to, he'll just get us lost, but he's not smart enough to know that."

"He's still just a puppy," said Mom.

"I know," grumbled Amanda, "but I wish he'd learn to listen to me and let me lead him."

"Maybe we'll have to take him to dog obedience school," said Mom, "or at least start some dog obedience lessons on our own." Mom studied Amanda a moment, then said softly, "Sometimes people behave a lot like Prince-they pull and tug on their 'leashes,' too. They don't want to listen to God or to parents who really know best." She paused, then added, "Like last week when I wouldn't let you go to Jessica's party. I'm not sure you've quite forgiven me for that yet!"

Amanda felt embarrassed. "I . . . I guess I have been acting pretty bad, haven't I?" She hesitated. "I didn't want to admit it, but . . . you were right about that. Jessica's parents weren't home, and I found out today that some of the kids got so loud, the neighbors called the police."

"They did?" exclaimed Mom. "Well, I'm very glad you weren't there."

"I really am, too," said Amanda. She sighed. "I guess I am like Prince. I wanted my own way, but you knew it wasn't a good idea for me to go to that party. I'm sorry for acting like I thought you were being mean."

Mom gave her a hug. "It's hard for all of us to remember that we're not wise enough to choose our own way," she said. "That's why God gave children parents. And that's why we all need to rely on God."

Amanda nodded. "From now on, I'll try to do less tugging and more listening," she promised.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
How do you respond to direction or discipline-from your parents, grandparents, or other adults? Do you realize that they may know the best path for your life? God provided them for you because He knows they may help you avoid some of the dangers ahead. Don't insist on your own path. Appreciate and obey those God has placed in authority over you.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls. Hebrews 13:17

[Soldier4Christ]

"Our Sunday school contest isn't fair," complained Stephen one Saturday morning. "It's called 'Fishing for Jesus,' and we're supposed to bring visitors and give out tracts and stuff. But my friends already go to Sunday school, so I don't have anybody to invite." Stephen sighed. "The prize is a fishing rod, and I sure could use that!"

"Hm-m-m," murmured Dad. He looked thoughtful. "Speaking of fishing, I heard they've been biting lately. Care to go?"

"All right!" yelled Stephen. "I'll go get ready right now."

Dad nodded. "I'll get the fishing gear. Meet me out back when you're ready."

When Stephen ran out the back door a little later, he stopped short and stared. Dad was sitting in a lawn chair, holding his fishing rod. The hook lay on the grass, and Dad watched it intently. "What are you doing?" asked Stephen.

"Sh-h-h!" Dad cautioned him. "I'm fishing. Don't scare the fish away."

"Fishing! What are you talking about?" asked Stephen. He looked at the hook and then looked back at his dad. "Didn't anybody tell you that fish live in water?" joked Stephen. He shook his head. "You know there aren't any fish in the grass. C'mon, Dad. Let's go where the fish are."

Dad looked up. "You know," he said, "that's a very good idea." He reeled in his line and got up. "Come on. The fish aren't far from here. We'll go to Peerson's Lake." He looked at Stephen as he added, "Good thing I wasn't trying to catch the most fish for a contest, or something, isn't it? I sure wouldn't have won." Stephen was a little startled when Dad said that, and he was quite sure he knew what Dad would say next. "For your contest, you need to go where the 'fish' are, too. Apparently, they're not in your group of close friends, but I think you'll find they're not far away."

Stephen sighed. "Yeah," he murmured as he climbed into the car. As they drove down the street, he suddenly pointed. "Maybe the new kid in that white house would come. And I guess I could ask Mary, who sits across from me at school-I suppose it wouldn't hurt to ask a girl. I'll make a couple phone calls when we get home."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do all your friends already know Jesus? It's wonderful if they do, but don't take it for granted. Talk to them about the Lord. And don't limit your witness just to those you know best. Jesus wants you to bring others to Him. To do that, you may have to go outside your circle of friends. Look around. You probably won't have to go very far to be a fisherman for Jesus.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Jesus said to them, "Follow Me, and I will make you become fishers of men." Mark 1:17

[Soldier4Christ]

Scott glanced nervously out the school window. It's looked stormy all day, he thought. I hope there isn't going to be another tornado alert. Sighing, he tried to concentrate on his math lesson.

As Scott began the first problem, a bell rang. "Tornado drill," said Miss Greely. "Take a large book and file quietly into the hall, children." Quickly they obeyed, taking their places in the school's inner hall and putting the books over their heads as they had done many times before. But there was something different today. Scott could hear a siren blowing, and as he listened, he knew it came from a nearby fire station. It was the signal to the town that a tornado funnel had been seen nearby.

Scott had never been so scared before, but as he sat, trembling, he recalled something Dad had said just the weekend before. They had gone swimming, and as Dad walked out into the deep water, Scott's little brother, Brian, hung on to his father's shoulders. "Are you scared in the deep water, Brian?" Scott had asked. Brian had shaken his head and said, "Nope. Dad's got me." Dad had laughed as he replied, "Good boy! I'm in control here, and I'm glad you trust your father." Then he had added, "I hope both you boys will remember that you can always trust your Father in heaven, too. He's in control of all the circumstances of your lives." As Scott remembered that, he felt better.

A few minutes later, Scott heard a roaring sound. It began softly, but got louder and louder. Is that a train? wondered Scott. We're not even close to the tracks. Then he remembered hearing that a tornado sounded a lot like a train rushing by. I'm still scared, Scott thought, but not so awfully scared. God's my heavenly Father, and He's in control. I can trust Him-even if a tornado hits.

Finally the "all clear" siren sounded, and soon the children were dismissed to go home. They learned that a tornado had indeed passed by, very close to the outskirts of the town and not far from their school. Much damage had been done, but no one had been hurt. Along with his family, Scott thanked God for watching over them.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Storms can be frightening, can't they? They are powerful and can cause a lot of damage. But God is even more powerful. When the lightning flashes, the thunder rolls, and the wind whistles through the trees, remember that God is in control of all those things. He will allow only what is best for you. Trust Him.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Even the wind and the sea obey Him! Mark 4:41

[Soldier4Christ]

The tornado that passed by so close to Scott's town was the subject of conversation for many days. Scott and his family heard stories of many strange things that had been caused by the strong winds. Then one day, Dad came home with a piece of a log. "What's that for?" asked Scott.

Dad held it out, and Scott saw that a piece of straw was sticking out from the wood. "One of the guys at work found this on his property," said Dad. "His place was right on the edge of the storm."

"Wow!" marveled Scott. "How could the wind take something as weak as that little straw and drive it right into the hard wood without even bending it?"

"It took a stronger force than we could exert-a special kind of power," said Dad. "I've been thinking about that all afternoon, and as a result, I've decided to teach that class of boys I've been offered."

Scott frowned as he looked at his dad. "I don't get the connection," said Scott. "What does teaching a class have to do with this wood and straw?"

"Well, this straw was weak, but powered by the storm, it became very strong," said Dad. "I'm weak, too. Our Sunday school superintendent heard me give my testimony at boys' club and has been encouraging me to teach, but I was afraid I wouldn't be able to hold the interest of the class each week. I think the Lord is using this straw to show me that a special kind of power is available to me-the power of the Holy Spirit. With His power, I believe I can be of help to those boys."

"You'll be a good teacher," agreed Scott.

Dad smiled. "I hope and pray you're right," he said. He paused a moment before adding, "I thought about you, too."

"Me?" Scott was startled.

Dad nodded. "I heard your kids' choir director ask you to sing a solo on youth night. She says you have a fine voice."

"But . . . but I get so nervous," began Scott, "and I . . ." He stopped. A moment later he grinned at his dad. "You're saying I have a special power available to me, too, right? God will help me sing for Him."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you feel like you aren't able to do a good job serving God? Are you too nervous to sing in public, give a testimony, make posters, or take part in some other activity? If you're a Christian, a special power-God's power-is available to you. Are you using it? Ask Him to help you, and then say yes to opportunities of service He gives you. God won't let you down.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
He (the Lord) said to me, "My . . . strength is made perfect in weakness." 2 Corinthians 12:9

[Soldier4Christ]

Tim ran to answer the phone. "Hi, Hal," he said when he heard who was calling. "What's up?" The boys talked quite a while, then Tim said, "I'm babysitting Josh, so I'd better see if he's finished his milk and cookies. I'll talk to you later." Tim hung up the phone and returned to the kitchen, but his little brother was no longer there. "Josh, where are you?" called Tim.

"In here." The little boy's answer came from the bathroom.

Tim hurried in and found toothpaste all over the counter. More was oozing out of the tube as Josh stood on a stool, trying to push it back in.

"You dummy, Josh!" exclaimed Tim, grabbing the tube away from his brother. "You can't put toothpaste back. Once it's out of the tube, it stays out." He continued scolding as he cleaned up the mess Josh had made.

Josh began to cry. "I'm a dummy," he sobbed. "I'm just a dummy!"

When Tim saw how upset his little brother was, he wished he hadn't been so harsh. "No, Josh," he said, "you aren't a dummy."

"But you said . . ." began Josh.

Tim rumpled his little brother's hair. "Forget it. I shouldn't have said that, and I'm sorry."

When Mom and Dad came home, they asked how the babysitting went. "I'm a dummy," Josh whimpered promptly.

"No, you're not," said Tim quickly. He knew he'd have to explain what had happened. "We had a 'toothpaste explosion,' that's all," he said, and he told his parents about it."

"And I'm a dummy," Josh repeated. "Tim said so."

"I told you you're not," protested Tim. "I told you I'm sorry for saying that."

Dad shook his head. "Josh, you shouldn't have been playing with the toothpaste," he said, "but Tim, you should have been watching him more carefully instead of talking on the phone. And you know you were too hasty with your tongue. I'm glad you apologized, but there's a lesson here. Just like you can't put toothpaste back in the tube, you can't take back words that come out of your mouth. Always remember that, and make sure your words are all pleasing to God."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you sometimes say things in anger? Do you scold or say unkind things to your younger brothers or sisters and make them cry? Do you jokingly say things without considering how those others will feel about it? Does what you say frequently hurt friends or parents? Words can never be "unsaid." The Bible says your speech should always be "with grace" or spoken in a kind way. If you follow this instruction, you won't have to worry about trying to take back your unkind words.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Let your speech always be with grace. Colossians 4:6

[Soldier4Christ]

Kevin's dad sat in his easy chair reading the evening newspaper. "I see that our city is going to celebrate Earth Day this Saturday," he said.

"Earth Day? Oh, yeah!" Kevin looked up from his book. "My teacher talked about that in class today."

"The paper says the city is organizing a 'Clean Up The Beach Day,'" said Dad. "They're asking for volunteers to walk along the beach and pick up any trash they find there. This might be a good way for our family to help clean up the environment."

"Yuck!" Kevin frowned. "I don't want to touch other people's garbage," he protested. "Besides it sounds like too much work."

Mom laid her sewing in her lap. "Do you remember what happened last winter to your bicycle?" she asked.

"Don't remind me!" exclaimed Kevin. "I'm trying to forget!"

But Mom went on reminding him. "You left it lying under that bush behind the garage. It snowed, and by the time the snow melted, it was all rusted," she said. "Dad and I trusted you to take good care of that bike. We told you if you didn't, we wouldn't buy you a new one."

Kevin sighed. "And you didn't," he said. "I'll just have to polish it up as good as I can."

"That's right. It doesn't look so good anymore, does it?" said Mom. "Well, God has made many beautiful things for us to enjoy, and He trusted us to take good care of all that He created. If we don't, we may lose the enjoyment and use of them."

Dad nodded. "The beach and the animals and plants that live in the ocean are part of God's creation, and it's our responsibility and duty to care for them. The trash people leave behind can pollute them. It may even kill or injure animals that live in the ocean and birds living near it." He paused. "Do you remember who was made in God's own image and was put in charge of all living creatures?" he asked.

Kevin nodded. "Adam," he said, "and I guess that means we are, too." After thinking for a moment, he added, "Okay-you're right. I think we should help with the beach clean-up after all."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you doing what you can to help keep God's creation in good shape? Call your city's offices to find out if a special time has been set for cleaning and caring for the environment. If it has, participate and do your share on that day. Perhaps the day is past. If so, let the officials know you appreciate what's been done, and show God-and others-that you love Him and His creation by doing what you can to protect and keep it clean any time you see a need.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1

[Soldier4Christ]

"Once upon a time there were three Baars: Mr. Baar, Mrs. Baar, and their daughter, Merry." Amy snuggled close as her mother continued reading from Amy's favorite storybook. "One day while driving home from church, Mr. Baar growled, 'I'm never going back there again. No one spoke to me.'

"Mrs. Baar nodded her head until her curls bobbed. 'No one talked to me either,' she declared.

"Merry Baar bounced up and down in the back seat. In her little, high voice she said, 'Nobody talked to me. Let's not go back there.'

"So the Baars tried other churches, but they were always disappointed when no one paid much attention to them. All the Baars agreed that churches were most unfriendly.

One day the pastor from the last church they had visited came to their home. 'We were so pleased to have you with us last Sunday," he said. "We hope you'll come again. We have many fine people in our church.'

"Mr. Baar shrugged. 'No one talked to me,' he said.

"'No one welcomed me,' added Mrs. Baar.

"'Me, neither,' Merry said in her high, little voice. 'We squeezed in the back seat just before church started, and we ran out as soon as it ended.'

"'Ah-h-h!' The pastor smiled. 'Perhaps you'd like to try an experiment.' The Baars looked puzzled. 'I find that people who always seem to have a good time with others at church are those who look for someone who seems lonely,' continued the pastor, 'and they talk with that person. Would the three of you try that this Sunday?' Mr. and Mrs. Baar nodded, so Merry nodded, too.

"That Sunday, the Baar family went to church a little earlier than usual. A family with a girl about Merry's age stood in the back of the auditorium, looking uncertain and lonely. Quickly, the Baars went to talk with the family. Then they all sat together during the church service.

"'This is a friendly church,' Mr. Baar said later, beaming at the pastor.

"'You have found the secret to a friendly church,' the pastor said. 'It's not so much who talks with you, as whom you go and talk with.' The Baars nodded happily." As Mom closed the book, she saw that Amy had already fallen asleep.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you feel left out and friendless at church? It could be because you don't give others a chance to meet you. Enjoying the fellowship of other believers helps you fellowship with God as well. So don't quit going to church. Instead, make an effort to greet others, especially those who seem to be in need of a friendly smile. You'll find they usually respond to you and are grateful for your interest. God will be pleased that you chose to show His love. And you'll be pleased, too!


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
They continued steadfastly in . . . fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayers. Acts 2:42

[Soldier4Christ]

"How was this cave discovered?" Ryan's dad asked the tour guide as they took an elevator into the depths of Jewel Cave near Custer, South Dakota.

"It's an interesting story," replied the guide. "In 1900, two prospectors heard wind rushing through a hole in the rocks. When they enlarged the hole, they found a cave full of sparkling crystals. The Jewel Cave National Monument was established in 1908 to protect this beautiful cave."

The elevator stopped, and they stepped out and followed a paved, lighted pathway, climbing up and down more than 700 steps. Ryan was fascinated with the colorful rock crystals hanging like giant icicles. Away from the light, deep darkness enveloped the caverns. "With more than 133 miles surveyed, Jewel Cave is the third longest cave in the world, and more has yet to be explored," said the guide as the tour group stopped in a chamber. "Now, in a few minutes, I'm going to turn off the lights so you'll see what real darkness is."

Oh, great! thought Ryan with a frown. You always hear about tour guides doing that-just as though you've never been in the dark before. But when the lights went out, Ryan was surprised. Hey, this really is dark, he thought. He couldn't see his fingers, even though he put them right in front of his eyes. It was much darker than the darkest night Ryan had ever seen! At home during the night, he could at least see some shadows. "I can almost feel the darkness here," he whispered to his dad.

"Now I'm going to leave you in the dark while I take a coffee break," the guide said jokingly.

Everyone laughed, including Ryan, but he felt a little shiver go up his back at the thought of being left in such darkness. He imagined how awful it would be to be lost in it! Suddenly, he remembered his Bible club teacher telling the class that God says people who don't know Jesus as Savior are lost in the darkness of sin.

Wow! thought Ryan, I'm glad our guide was just joking about leaving us in this dark cave, but it's not a joke that people are in the darkness of sin. That's even worse than this darkness. I sure am glad I know Jesus as my Savior!


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you in darkness-the darkness of sin? Do you wonder how to get out of such darkness and how to get rid of your sins? The Bible calls Jesus the "Light of the world." He'll cleanse you from sin and lead you from darkness to light if you'll simply trust in Him. Won't you ask Him to do that for you today?


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
(Jesus said) "I am the light of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness." John 8:12

[Soldier4Christ]

"We're going to my grandmother's for Easter weekend," said Jesse as he and his friend Ethan walked home from school. "She lives in Pennsylvania, and we always have fun at her house. On Easter Sunday, we go to Grandma's church. They have an early morning service-a sunrise service-to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. We meet outside and watch the sun come up. It's cool."

Ethan shrugged. "Come in for a minute," he said as they approached his house. "I'll show you something." Jesse followed Ethan into the house. "Look over here," said Ethan, leading Jesse to a shelf in the kitchen. "This is our god." Jesse stared. There, on a shelf, stood a strange-looking little statue. What an ugly old thing, he thought. He had often heard about idols, especially from missionary speakers at church, but he'd never seen an idol before. "You can't even see your god," continued Ethan, "but our god is right here in our kitchen."

"But the Bible says there's only one true God," protested Jesse.

"Nah," scoffed Ethan. "My mom says it doesn't really make any difference which god you believe in, just as long as you're sincere and do your best. I'd rather have a god you can see than an invisible one." Jesse felt like he should say something, but he wasn't sure what.

 As the boys walked to school the next morning, Jesse was still thinking about the idol Ethan had shown him. When he saw a large stone along the sidewalk, he had an idea. He picked it up. "Maybe I'll make this my god," said Jesse. "It will fit right in my pocket, so that way I can have it with me all the time and pray to it whenever I want to."

Ethan looked at Jesse in surprise. "You've gotta be kidding," said Ethan. "That's just an old stone. It can't hear you when you pray, or take care of you!"

"Well, your god can't, either," replied Jesse. "It's just a piece of brass!" Ethan looked a bit startled. "Even if I can't see Him, Jesus is alive-and He's God, and you know what else?" Once Jesse got started, he found there were a lot of things he wanted to tell Ethan. "Jesus is with me all the time, and I can talk to Him anytime I want to and He listens. I'd rather have a God I can't see but who is alive and can hear me than one I can see but that can't hear me. Think about it."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Have you ever seen an idol? Don't you wonder why people think a man-made figure can hear them pray? If you're a Christian, be thankful that you know the true, living God. He knows everything there is to know about you, and He loves you so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for you. Be thankful that Jesus rose from the dead and that you serve a God who is alive.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
I (Jesus) am He who lives, and was dead, and behold, I am alive forevermore. Revelation 1:18

[Soldier4Christ]

As Craig looked at the stack of church bulletins lying on the table, he frowned. Then he began to fold the bulletins as quickly as he could, trying not to feel guilty. Mr. Vernon, the youth pastor, had offered the class two ways to serve. Craig had chosen the easier job, while others had volunteered for the more difficult task of raking the church lawn.

"I'm done!" announced Craig before long. He glanced out at the kids still busily raking the church lawn. I sure don't feel like raking, he thought, so he left by a side door and headed home, ignoring his guilty conscience.

When he got home, Craig's little brother Andy grinned at him. "I dumped your trash, so now I don't owe you any more favors," Andy gloated triumphantly.

Craig scowled. "The waste basket wasn't even full," he complained. "You should have asked me. I wanted you to clean out my closet."

"Well, taking out the trash was easier," retorted Andy.

Mom entered the room before Craig could respond. "How did your work at church go?" she asked. "That didn't take long."

Craig swallowed hard. "I folded bulletins," he replied. "I finished before the other kids did."

"I thought you kids were going to rake the lawn," said Mom. "Didn't they need your help?"

"I . . . ah . . . I didn't volunteer for that." Craig sighed. "Now I feel guilty for taking the easier job."

"We call that taking the 'easy route,'" said Mom. She put her arm around Craig's shoulder. "First of all," she said, "I want you to realize that folding bulletins is serving God. However, if raking the yard is what you felt God really wanted you to do, then folding bulletins isn't enough."

Craig nodded. "I didn't like it that Andy took the 'easy route' when he dumped my trash," he said thoughtfully. "Do you think God feels that way, too?"

"Talk to Him about it. He's very forgiving," said Mom. "Next week, why don't you volunteer to help with all the jobs Mr. Vernon suggests?"

Craig nodded, feeling relieved. "Okay," he agreed.

Andy had been listening to the discussion. "Does that mean I have to clean Craig's closet, too?" he asked with a frown. "No way!"

 Craig and Mom laughed together. "Only if you feel guilty," Craig suggested.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you choose to serve God with tasks that you think would be easy or fun? Do you avoid serving or doing those you don't like? Don't just choose the "easy route." Be willing to do any task you believe God wants you to do-even those that are hard. If they seem too overwhelming, perhaps you can enlist others to help. Then do your work with enthusiasm and cheerfulness. God's Word encourages you not to be weary of doing good, for you will reap a reward.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
(Be) . . . not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11

[Soldier4Christ]

As Jenny hurried toward home, her best friend ran to catch up with her. "Jenny, wait up," Kelly called. "What's the big hurry? For days now you haven't had time to hang out or talk or anything."

"I know, but my mom's sick," Jenny reminded Kelly, "and she really needs my help. The chemotherapy she's taking causes her to get tired quickly, but she has to have it to stop the cancer."

"I'm sorry," Kelly apologized. "I just miss you and all the fun we used to have together. Don't you hate having all that extra work and responsibility? It must be really hard for you. I know I'd hate doing so many chores!"

Jenny was stunned by Kelly's remark. "My mom is really sick, Kelly," Jenny emphasized. "I honestly haven't hated doing stuff to help her. I want to do it because I love my mom. I want to do everything I can to make it easier for her." Tears pooled in Jenny's eyes and overflowed as she attempted to stifle a sob. "Mom has been there to take care of me my whole life. She's been the best mom ever, and I'm afraid of losing her to this awful cancer. I want to show that I love her by being there and taking care of her."

Kelly impulsively hugged Jenny hard. "I'm sorry. I wasn't thinking!" apologized Kelly.

Jenny nodded. "It's okay, Kelly. It's just that Mom's illness is making me realize that when you love someone, you help them because you want to, not just because you have to."

"That makes sense," Kelly admitted. "I know I'm being selfish when I grumble about the chores I have to do at home." After a moment she added, "I remember our Sunday school lesson a few weeks ago about how we'll obey God's commands if we love Him. I guess that applies to our parents, too."

"I never thought I'd say this," Jenny confessed, "but if my mom gets well, I'll try not to ever complain about my chores again. Right now I feel like I'll just be so thankful to have her healthy that I'll even love cleaning the bathroom for her."

Kelly laughed. "I'm still not sure I can say I'd love to do that, but at least I'd do it willingly now." She turned up the driveway with Jenny. "Come on. I'll help you."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
How do you serve God and others-willingly or grudgingly, just because you feel you have to? When you don't feel like doing the things you should, admit it to God and ask for the help of His Spirit. Loving God and loving others will give you the proper motive for service and the strength to obey God's commands.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap. Galatians 6:9