Sermons4Kids

[Soldier4Christ]

Cindy mixed cake batter, set the oven at the correct temperature, and popped the cake in to bake. "I'll clean the bowl," offered her brother Nick.

"Nope." Cindy shook her head and quickly ran water into the bowl. "It's not good for you like that," she told him. "You'll have to wait till the cake is finished."

But when the cake was done, it did not look good! "I'll try it," said Nick. He cut out a small piece. "Yuck!" he exclaimed. "Not even frosting will help that!"

Cindy was almost in tears, and Mom was perplexed, too. When Dad came in and heard about the ruined cake, he looked startled. "Oh, no!" he exclaimed. "On my way home last night, I picked up a few groceries. When I got home, I saw that a box of salt was leaking. The sugar canister was empty, so I poured the salt into it and threw the box away. I intended to mention it, but then the phone rang and I forgot. It's my fault, Cindy, and I'm sorry." Dad hugged her as he apologized.

 Cindy groaned. "You mean what I thought was sugar was really salt?"

"You should have let me clean the bowl," said Nick. "I would have noticed that!"

"Does this remind anybody of Pastor's message last Sunday?" asked Mom. "He talked about the verse in Isaiah where people said evil was good, remember? And they said light was darkness, and that bitter was sweet. Of course, salt isn't bitter, but the idea is still the same. The label on the canister said the contents were sweet, but they sure weren't."

"No, they weren't." Dad shook his head. "It's too bad that happened, but at least you can bake a new cake. If people say a thing is good when God says it's evil, that's a much more serious thing."

"Like what sort of things might they say?" Cindy asked.

"Well, suppose your friends tell you a certain movie or TV show is really good," suggested Mom, "but when you start watching it, you find there are bad words or sinful behaviors portrayed. Is it good or evil?"

"Evil," said Nick. "Some people say doing drugs is good, too-or that cigarettes won't hurt you. Those would be other examples calling evil good, right?"

"And some kids say going to Bible club is a waste of time," said Cindy. "Would that be like saying something that's good is evil?"

Dad smiled. "You're getting the idea," he said. "In fact, I think you've got it!"


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you know what things God says are good? Do you know what He says is evil? In today's world many people change it around to make the good sound evil and the evil sound good. It's sad that so many people think things like truthfulness, kindness, and patience are not always necessary and that dishonesty, immorality, and cheating are sometimes okay. That isn't true. Know what God says in His Word, and follow His guidelines.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Woe to those who call evil good, and good evil. Isaiah 5:20

[Soldier4Christ]

Lori carefully measured a cup of sugar into a bowl. "I like making cookies," she said, "and Dad says my cookies are second only to yours." She cracked an egg as she grinned at her mother.

"You do a good job," agreed Mom, "and I appreciate your taking that task off my hands today. I need the extra time to prepare for my Bible study."

Lori looked thoughtful as she stirred the mixture. "Mom, how do you know the Bible is true, anyway? I mean, couldn't it have some mistakes?"

Mom looked surprised. "No, it couldn't," she said.

"Well, Janie's father is a preacher, and they believe most of the Bible," said Lori, "but he says some of the things just couldn't have happened . . . like the story of Jonah and some of the miracles. He says God has set up certain laws of nature, and those things don't fit in."

"God did establish laws of nature," agreed Mom, "but God, Himself, is not limited by them." She paused as she watched Lori take the baking soda from the cupboard. "Lori," said Mom, "why don't you put a few extra teaspoons of soda in the cookie dough today?"

Lori frowned. "Why? What for?" she asked.

Mom shrugged. "It might make the cookies taste even better," she said. "And maybe if you'd add an extra cup of milk to make a nice, soft dough, you'd get some nice, soft cookies."

Lori stared at her mother; then she laughed. "Either you've gotta be kidding, or you're afraid Dad will like my cookies better than yours, so you're trying to ruin them," she teased. "Won't work, Mom! I've made these before, and I know this recipe is just right the way it is."

"In other words, you've tested it and found it to be accurate," said Mom, "just like I've tested many other recipes in that cookbook." Pointing to the Bible lying on a kitchen shelf, she added, "That's another book that's been tried and proven to be accurate. It tells of things that will take place, and many of them have already happened. That's just one of the reasons you can be sure that all it says is true. In spite of evil men who have tried to get rid of the Bible by persecuting those who read and believe it, God's Word lives on."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Have you wondered if the Bible is really true? It is! In years gone by, many things happened that the Bible said would take place. Others are still happening in the world today. Perhaps the greatest evidence that the Bible is true is the way it has changed lives of people throughout history and throughout the world. Even science, as it has developed, proves the truth of the Bible. The Bible has stood the test of time and it will continue to stand forever.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
The word of our God stands forever. Isaiah 40:8

[Soldier4Christ]

"Mom!" screamed Brock, running toward the her car. He had just shot another basket when he saw her coming down the road. Then as she began to turn into the driveway, her car was hit by a truck trying to pass her. "Please, God!" prayed Brock as he approached the driver's side. "Please let Mom be okay."

As Brock opened the car door, his mom gave him a shaky smile. "I'm okay, Brock," she assured him. "Everything is all right." The man in the truck was fine, too, and Brock gave a huge sigh of relief. That was too close, he thought, and he quietly breathed a prayer of thanks.

Every once in a while during the rest of that day, Brock gave his mother a hug. "I love you, Mom," he'd say.

"I love you too, Brock," she'd reply with a smile.

That night, as Mom was tucking him into bed, Brock hugged her again. "Mom, when I saw that car hit you, I was so scared!" he told her. "I guess I thought you'd always be here, but today I realized you could have died."

"We do tend to take each other for granted," said Mom, "but every now and then, we're reminded we shouldn't do that."

Brock nodded. "I don't very often say that I love you, Mom," he said, "but from now on, I'm going to do better."

Mom smiled. "I've always known you love me, honey, but it's wonderful to hear it anyway. It makes me feel very happy," she told him. She looked thoughtful. "You know, I think God probably feels the same way, don't you?"

"I . . . I never thought about that before," replied Brock, "but I guess He does. Even though He knows I love Him, I should be sure to tell Him and show Him every day, too, shouldn't I?"

"We all should," agreed Mom. "I didn't enjoy being in an accident today, but we both learned an important lesson from it. Let's tell God right now how very much we love Him."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you tell God you love Him every day? Do you show your love for Him? Do you think about Him at various times as the day goes by and talk with Him in prayer? Do you talk to your family and friends about Him? What are some other ways you can show that you love Him? Try to find a new and special way each day to show Him how much you care!


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5

[Soldier4Christ]

I don't know Nicole very well, but since Dad was in a serious accident last year, I think I know just how she feels, thought Emma when she arrived at school and heard that Nicole's mother was in critical condition after being in a serious car accident. Emma noticed that many of her classmates stared curiously at Nicole and avoided speaking to her. A few others awkwardly attempted to comfort her. At least they're trying, Emma thought. Good for them! Maybe it would help her if I tell her about Dad's accident.

Emma walked over and spoke to Nicole. "You doing okay?" asked Emma.

Nicole shrugged. "Dad thought I'd get my mind off Mom's accident if I came to school," she said, "but it's not working too good."

"I know how hard it is," said Emma. "My father was badly hurt in a car wreck last year."

"Oh." Nicole sighed. "Then you understand how I feel!"

Emma nodded. "I was really scared and felt pretty lonely after that happened. Lots of people prayed for my family during that time. Would you like me to pray for your mom?"

"Really?" Nicole tried to smile. "You would pray for my mom? No one ever prayed for us before."

"I'll pray for your whole family," Emma assured her. "Would you like to pray together now?"

"I don't know much about praying," said Nicole.

"That's okay," Emma encouraged. "I'll pray. Then maybe I can tell you more about how God helped our family through that tough time."

Nicole nodded and followed Emma's example as she closed her eyes and bowed her head.

When Emma got home from school that afternoon, she told her mom about Nicole's mother. "I told Nicole that knowing the Lord helped me. She listened to what I had to say, Mom, because she knew I understood how she felt. It's almost like God used Dad's accident to help me know what to say to Nicole."

Mom smiled and nodded. "It often happens like that, Emma," she said, "and that's what the Bible teaches, too. God says we can comfort others who are going through hard times because He comforts us during our hard times. One way we can do that is by telling hurting people how God helped us."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Have you experienced difficult things? Maybe there's been serious illness, a death, or an especially hard time in your family. God cares, and He offers His comfort-sometimes through His Word or through talking with Him, but sometimes through other people. You, in turn, can comfort others. Even if nothing really bad has happened to you, you can pray for those who are going through a tough situation. You can let them know you're sorry about their problems and tell them about God's love.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Comfort those . . . in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 2 Corinthians 1:4

[Soldier4Christ]

"Mom!" called Tim. "May I go hike the nature trails with Jon?"

"Sure," Mom agreed. "Maybe you'll have a chance to tell him about Jesus."

"I already did," Tim replied. "He thinks it doesn't matter much what you believe as long as you live right and do good, but Jon is a good kid, Mom."

"A lot of people don't realize that their own goodness is not good enough to enter into God's presence," said Mom. "There's only one way to God, and that's through His Son, Jesus Christ. Jesus is called the door-not a door, but the door."

"I know," said Tim, "but Jon doesn't believe that."

Tim went to meet Jon, and the boys rode their bikes to the state park where there were several nature trails. They parked the bikes in the parking lot, went through the entrance gate, and began their hike.

When they reached the top of a hill, the boys flopped to the ground to rest. "Look! I can see the parking lot." Jon pointed down the hill. "Let's cut through the woods to get back down there. I'm tired of following the path. If we go down right here, we'll get there much quicker."

"But there's only one gate into the park," said Tim.

"Says who? Let's go," insisted Jon. He started down through the brush, and Tim followed. They made good progress until they reached a high chain-link fence. "I forgot about this fence," said Jon.

"We have to go through the gate," said Tim. "I tried to tell you that. You didn't believe me, but that didn't change the fact."

"If I'd made this park, I'd have made more places to get in," grumbled Jon.

"But you didn't make the park," replied Tim, "so let's just get back to the path."

"Let's follow the fence to the gate," suggested Jon. "It might be shorter that way."

"We tried enough shortcuts," said Tim, turning to go. Jon frowned but he didn't argue anymore. "Hey, Jon, this is like what we were talking about the other day," added Tim. "There's only one gate into the park and only one 'door' to get into heaven."

 Jon shook his head. "You're going to preach to me about Jesus again, aren't you? Forget it!'"

"Okay," said Tim, "but remember that not believing facts doesn't change them."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you convinced that Jesus is the only way to heaven? God's Word says there is no other way, except through Him. Many people refuse to believe this truth, but that does not change the fact. Many will continue to choose their own way, but you must choose God's way if you want eternal life. You must receive Jesus as your personal Savior. He is the only "door" to heaven.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
(Jesus said) I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved. John 10:9

[Soldier4Christ]

Bethany was excited but a bit nervous as Miss Lewis told her and the other older girls what would be expected of them as church-camp counselors. "You'll be teaching Bible stories to the younger children, and it's important that your behavior is a good example to them," said Miss Lewis. Bethany nodded. She was looking forward to being a counselor, but she also felt like a huge block of responsibility rested on her shoulders. Some of the kids who will be counselors act like we're just going for a good time. What if they tempt me to goof off? she worried. I don't want to disappoint Miss Lewis-or God! "Okay, that's it for today," finished Miss Lewis. "We'll go over some more things when we meet again next week." Bethany gathered her things and headed home.

"Hi, honey," Mom greeted her when got home. "You're coming in just as I'm going out-I have a meeting at church in fifteen minutes. While I'm gone, I'd like you to fix a meatloaf for dinner. The directions are in the cookbook over there on the cupboard. Do you think you can handle that?"

"Sure," agreed Bethany, but she sighed as Mom hurried away. I hope I can do this right, she thought.

When Mom returned, dinner was ready. As they ate, everyone complimented Bethany on the meatloaf. Even her little brother Pete had two good-sized helpings.

As they washed the dishes after dinner, Bethany told her mother about her concerns regarding camp. "Hmmm," murmured Mom. "Tell me . . . did you have any trouble making the meatloaf?"

"No," replied Bethany. "It was easy. I just looked in the cookbook and followed all the directions on the recipe."

Mom smiled. "Good," she said. "Well, there are also directions for us to follow when we're worried, afraid, or need encouragement to remain strong. Do you know where to find them?"

Bethany nodded. "I bet you mean the Bible," she said.

"That's right," said Mom. "Think of the verses you've memorized and use them as recipes while you're at camp. They'll help you find faith and courage to do what you know is right." Mom dried the last plate. "Follow those directions, and you can't help but do a good job."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Is the Word of God a part of your daily life? Do you know where to turn for directions when you're worried, afraid, or tempted? The Bible has verses to help you in all kinds of situations. Do you memorize verses regularly and then recall them when you you need the lessons they teach? Today's Scripture says to not only keep God's Word in your heart, but also to talk about it when you sit, walk, lie down, and rise up. Make it a part of your life in all of your activities.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
I will delight myself in Your statutes; I will not forget Your word. Psalm 119:16

[Soldier4Christ]

Liz glared at her mother. "You have no good reason to make me miss Sara's slumber party next Friday," insisted Liz. "You don't even know her, and I think you're being very unfair."

"No, I don't know her. You're right about that, Liz," admitted Mom. "I don't know her parents, either, and that's partly why I can't let you go to the party. I'm not trying to ruin your fun. I'm just trying to protect you from a possible bad influence." She smiled at Liz. "Why don't you invite Sara over for dinner sometime? Then I can get to know her better."

Liz agreed to her mother's suggestion, and a couple of days later, Sara came for dinner. "You and Sara go ahead and play a game," said Mom after they ate. "I'll clear the table and do the dishes tonight." As she worked, she enjoyed hearing the giggles and chatter of the two girls in the next room.

"Sara seems like a nice girl," said Mom after Sara had been taken home, "but I still need to meet her parents, or at least know more about them, before I can allow you to spend the night there."

Liz sighed. "There's no time," she protested. "The party is this coming weekend." She was quite sure there would be no slumber party for her.

 When the postman came up the walk the next day, Liz's dog, GG-short for Good Girl-ran to the screen door. She barked and growled angrily. "GG, be quiet!" scolded Liz. As the postman left, she turned to her mother. "Mom, what is wrong with GG? Since she had her puppies she's seems to go wild every time someone comes to the door. She should know the postman won't hurt her. She never used to bark at him."

"I know, but GG just isn't going to take any chances with her babies," Mom explained as they settled the dog with her puppies in the kitchen. "She'll try to keep anyone who isn't family away from them." She paused, then added, "I guess all mothers are like that-and fathers, too. So do please be patient with GG-and with me-as we mother our children! Okay?"

Liz looked at her mother in surprise, then slowly nodded. She knew Mom was thinking of her refusal to let Liz attend the slumber party.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you sometimes wonder why your parents seem so protective of you? Do you feel like they won't let you grow up? God has given them the great responsibility of keeping you from evil influences. They're just doing their job when they teach you God's Word, discipline you as needed, provide for your needs, and do all they can to keep you safe from various types of danger. Be patient with them, and honor them for doing their best to train you in every right way.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Honor your father and your mother, as the Lord your God has commanded you. Deuteronomy 5:16

[Soldier4Christ]

Cruising into the driveway on her bike, Tracie waved at her dad. "Wow!" she exclaimed as she hopped off. "I love my new bike. I never really thought I'd get such a great gift for my birthday!" Her chatter caused her dad to smile, and Tracy impulsively hugged him. "Dad, you're the best! You knew just what I wanted. It's even the perfect color."

Dad chuckled. "I know how to take a hint," he replied. "How many times did I hear you talk about the 'cool bike in the window at Wilson's Sports store'? And aren't you the one who left a picture of this very bike taped to my bathroom mirror last week? I believe you even circled the color you preferred."

Tracie laughed joyously. "I guess I was pretty obvious," she admitted as she brushed dust from the bike. "I assumed you wouldn't know what I wanted unless I told you. Besides, I figured it never hurts to ask."

"Well, I'm glad we could give you what you asked for," said Dad, "but . . . what if you had asked for a new car? Do you think we'd have gotten that for you?"

Tracie laughed. "No way!" she said. "I'm not even old enough to drive yet." She paused. "I kinda wanted that DVD about the haunted mansion, but I knew you wouldn't get that for me, either."

"You're right." Dad nodded. "I love you, Tracie, but I won't always give you everything you ask for," he said, "nor will God. I know how disappointed you were when you weren't chosen for the gymnastics team. You seemed so sure God would give you that team position because you had prayed about it. But God withheld your request."

"I know, and I still don't understand why God didn't help me," replied Tracie. "I really wanted that spot on the team."

"Because I love you, I'll give you only those gifts I believe are best for you," Dad told her. "God-your heavenly Father-loves you and gives good gifts, too. When He doesn't answer your prayer exactly as you ask Him to, it's because He knows what's best for you."

"I'm learning that." Tracie sighed. "I sure have a lot of growing up to do, don't I?"

Dad gave her a hug. "I think you're growing just fine," he encouraged.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you sometimes wonder why God doesn't give you what you ask for? When that happens, do you feel like you might as well not pray at all? Remember that God knows what's best for all of His people-including you! He wants to you to come to Him with your requests, but that doesn't mean He'll always give you what you want. Even when you don't understand His reasons, trust Him and accept the answers He gives.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
No good thing will He (God) withhold from those who walk uprightly. Psalm 84:11

[Soldier4Christ]

"Yuk!" Beth exclaimed. "I am so tired of hearing that song!" She and her brother had been asked to play a special number for the morning worship service at their church. Choosing a song for the occasion was proving to be frustrating.

"This is a cool piece," insisted Scott. "It has a good harmony."

"Whatever," retorted Beth, but she frowned. "It's an old song, and we need something newer," she added. "You just have bad taste."

Scott was indignant. "Look who's talking!" he replied angrily. "You want to play that chorus we learned at camp, and it sounds horrible!"

"Does not," Beth argued.

"Does, too!" insisted Scott.

"Just forget it then!" snapped Beth. "I have better things to do than to sit here and argue with you!" She placed her flute in its case and snapped it shut.

"I don't hear any practicing," said Mom as she entered the room.

"Scott won't cooperate," fumed Beth. "He wants to play that old praise hymn. I think a newer song would be better."

"People won't even know the words of the song she wants to play," objected Scott.

Mom sighed. "Many people disagree about music styles and preferences," she said.

"So what do we do?" Beth asked.

"Think about the reason for playing," suggested Mom. "Why do you play at all?"

"Well . . . we were asked to play," murmured Scott.

Beth knew that wasn't a satisfactory answer. "We hope others will learn about the Lord through our music," she said quickly. "God created music. It's praise to Him. "

"That sounds good," said Mom, "but I certainly didn't hear any praises to God when you were talking together and deciding what to play. If your goal is to praise Him, I think you'd better check your attitudes first. Then you should choose a song that will honor God, not just entertain the audience."

Scott and Beth looked at each other as their mother left the room. "Mom's right," Beth said. "Let's start all over. Choosing a song to honor God is more important than having my own way. Let's play the praise hymn you chose."

 Scott smiled. "You're sure?" he asked as he picked up his clarinet.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
What about music you listen to, play, and sing? Does it praise and honor God? Music is a tool that can be used to minister God's Word to others and encourage your own heart to praise God. Is your goal in listening-or in performing-to be entertained or to entertain others? Or is it to give glory to God? Check your attitude and your motive to make sure your music serves the purpose for which it was created!


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Psalm 150:6

[Soldier4Christ]

Melinda lay across her bed as she read an exciting missionary story. Wow! she thought. Maybe I'll be a missionary and serve God some day. She sighed. There's not much I can do now. I'm just a kid.

"Melinda! Come here, please," Mom called. When Melinda reached the kitchen, Mom handed her a bowl. "How about taking this stew next door to Mrs. Nelson," said Mom. "Her broken arm bothers her a lot."

At the Nelson's home, Melinda noticed that breakfast and lunch dishes were still on the table, so she loaded them into the dishwasher and set the table for dinner. Mrs. Nelson thanked her over and over for being so helpful, and Melinda was smiling as she left.

When Melinda got back home, her mother asked her to run some magazines over to Grannie Wilson's home. Because Grannie was so pleased to see her, Melinda sat down and visited a while. "You're a sweet girl, Melinda," Grannie said. "Most young people these days don't have time for us old folks."

When Melinda arrived home again, she was singing. "Well, you seem to be in a good mood," Mom remarked. "Would you feed Robbie?"

"Sure," agreed Melinda. By the time she finished feeding the baby, she was laughing. "He's such a clown," she told her mother.

After dinner, Melinda picked up her book and sat down to read. She grinned at her mother. "It's so cool the way the missionary in this book does things to help people in their village. I wish I could grow up fast so I can serve the Lord like that."

Mom smiled. "You've been doing things for the Lord all afternoon, honey."

"Me? Doing things for the Lord?" repeated Melinda.

"You helped Mrs. Nelson," Mom said. "You visited Grannie. You . . ."

"But, Mom, that was just helping people," said Melinda with a sigh. "I want to do something for God."

"How do you think missionaries serve Him?" asked Mom. "They do it by doing things for people. We serve God by serving others, and that's what you've been doing."

A big smile slowly spread over Melinda's face.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you think you're too young to serve God? You're not. The Bible gives several examples of children who served Him. One of them is found in today's Scripture reading. You can serve God, too. Make a list of two or three things you can do today to help someone. Then check at the end of the day to see if you've done them. You'll find that serving the Lord by helping others will not only bless them. It will also put a smile on your lips and a song in your heart.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Even a child is known by his deeds, whether what he does is pure and right. Proverbs 20:11

[Soldier4Christ]

When Jill noticed a pair of robins surveying the crook of a branch in the maple tree outside her bedroom window, she stood absolutely still so she wouldn't frighten the birds. The robins diligently gathered twigs and bits of leaves to construct their nest. Jill giggled when she saw one of the birds use a piece of discarded hair ribbon.

Each day Jill observed the progress on the nest, and one morning she saw an egg in it. Soon four sky-blue eggs lay in the nest. When the tiny birds eventually broke from their shells, Jill excitedly shared the news with her family. Six-year-old Silas seemed especially interested in watching the parent birds care for the babies.

One day during a terrible thunderstorm, the branch holding the nest swayed back and forth. Silas snuggled against Jill as they watched from the window. Lightning flashed, and Jill put her arm around her little brother as a loud clap of thunder startled him. Silas giggled nervously. "That scared me," he admitted. "Do you think the baby birds are scared, too?"

Jill shook her head. "The mother robin is covering them with her wings so they won't get hurt," she answered. "Isn't that cool? They trust her to keep them safe. I don't think they're afraid at all."

"I get scared sometimes," Silas confessed. "I'm afraid of the mean kids at school, and sometimes I'm even afraid of the dark. Big dogs scare me, too."

Jill smiled sympathetically. "Everyone's afraid of something. Sometimes I'm afraid of what the kids will think, or I worry that I won't have any friends." She shook her head. "That's silly of me. If we trust God, He'll help us through all those scary times." She pointed to the birds. "See how that mother bird spreads her wings to protect her babies? God uses that as an example of how He cares for us, His children," added Jill. "Like a mother bird protects her babies, God protects us, and we can trust Him. Okay?"

Silas smiled and nodded, and as Jill spoke, she herself suddenly realized the truth of God's Word. "God is protecting us," she repeated, "and no storm in life is stronger than His love for us."A flash of lightning and a clap of thunder erupted in the room, but Silas didn't even flinch. "Thank you, God, for protecting us," he whispered.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you afraid of the dark? Of death? Or perhaps of the rejection of others? Trusting God's love for you can chase away fear. The Bible often uses "word pictures" to illustrate His love. When you see and hear birds, think of how a mother bird cares for her babies in stormy weather. Let it remind you of how carefully and completely God watches over you in all of life's storms. Whenever you feel afraid,remember that God is with you. Trust Him.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge. Psalm 91:4

[Soldier4Christ]

Dana snuggled under the covers as rain drummed against her bedroom window. Jagged streaks of lightning flashed across the black sky, and thunder crashed. Dana pulled the quilt over her head. But the storm inside her heart seemed far greater than the storm outside, and tears rolled down her cheeks.

The awful news had come. Dana's dad was getting married again. He had left home several months earlier, and she and her mother had been praying he'd come back to the Lord and rejoin them. Now there was no chance of restoring the family to the way it was, and Dana felt she would never be happy again.

A few minutes later, Dana heard her door opening softly, and Mom came in. "Is the storm bothering you, honey?" asked Mom.

Dana blew her nose and wiped her eyes. "Not really," she said.

Mom sat on the bed and hugged her daughter. "Another storm hit us today, didn't it?" said Mom. "I know the news we received was terrible for you. It was for me, too." She sat down in a rocker next to the bed and stroked Dana's hair. "I'm reminded that when you were small, you were very afraid of thunder and lightning."

Dana wiped her eyes. "I was? I don't remember that. How did I get over it?"

"When a bad storm came, I used to sit beside you in this chair," Mom replied. "Just having me here seemed to make your fears go away."

"That's interesting!" Dana said. After a moment, she added, "I still like having you here, but you don't need to stay tonight, Mom. I'll be okay."

"I know you will," replied Mom. "I know how upset you've been lately, and I've prayed that God's presence will help you through this tough time. I'd never make it without Him, and I hope you'll remember that He's always here to help you through any of life's storms."

Mom stayed a little longer and then returned to her own room. After she left, Dana looked at the empty rocking chair. She tried to imagine the Lord sitting there, watching over her. "Dear heavenly Father," she prayed, "thank You for being with me." Suddenly, she knew that even though her problem was still there, things were different now because she was trusting God to take care of her.

Dana rolled over and was soon sound asleep.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you have a difficult problem in your life right now? Have your parents divorced? Has a family member died? Is someone you love seriously ill? Have you been abused? Perhaps you feel lonely and neglected. As you go through hard times, God is right there with you. Thank Him for that, and trust Him completely. Learning to trust God, no matter what happens, is the secret to real peace. Remember-He's always with you!


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You. Isaiah 26:3

[Soldier4Christ]

 A Fair Chance

"There's a new girl in my class," said Mary one evening. "Her name is Alyce, and she's a snob. She sits like this." Mary turned her nose up, pushed her shoulders back, and sat very erect. "We asked if she wanted to jump rope with us, and she said, 'No, thank you,' so proper-like. She acts like she thinks she's better than us!"

"Don't you think you're judging a little prematurely?" asked Mom as she passed the chicken casserole. "God says we shouldn't do that."

Dad looked at the dish Mom handed him. "What is this?" he asked.

"A new chicken casserole," said Mom. "It's delicious. I'm sure you'll like it."

"I don't want any," stated five-year-old Noah. "I don't like it."

Mary laughed. "You've never tasted it, Noah," she said. "It looks good!"

"I don't like it," Noah repeated. "I don't want any."

"Well, you need to try it," said Dad. "Take two bites, Noah."

Noah looked pleadingly at his mother. "You heard your dad," she said. "Two bites." She put a small amount on his plate.

Noah took a tiny bit and made a face as he put the spoon to his mouth. He chewed, then slowly grinned and took a bigger bite. "It's good!" he exclaimed, and everyone laughed.

As Mary helped herself to the casserole, she again grumbled about the new girl in her class. Mom frowned. "The way you're acting about Alyce is the way Noah acted about the casserole," she said. "You're judging without giving her a fair chance."

"Yeah," Noah muttered with his mouth full. "You don't even know her." He held out his plate. "May I please have some more chicken casserole?"

The next day, Mary came bouncing in from school. "Guess what, Mom! I like Alyce," she said. "She's nice."

"Good," said Mom. "And how did you discover that?"

"I thought of Noah and the casserole," said Mary. "I knew I was wrong to judge so quickly. I talked with Alyce at recess. She sits like she does because she has a back brace. That's why she can't jump rope, too. She just hated to tell anybody."

Mom smiled and gave Mary a hug. "I think God has taught you something important," she said. "Be sure to remember it."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you critical of new people when you meet them? If you judge them on the basis of first impressions, you may miss some wonderful experiences. God warns about judging unfairly. Be careful not to do that. Make up your mind to give everyone a fair chance to be your friend.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Judge not, and you shall not be judged. Luke 6:37

[Soldier4Christ]

Lindsey frowned as she looked at herself in the full length mirror. "I'm ugly," she said sadly. "Everyone laughs at me because I'm short and fat. My eyes are too small and my nose is too big. Even my fingernails look funny, and my teeth are crooked. I used to like my hair, but it's a mess lately, too. I'm ugly, and that's it."

Mom frowned. "That's nonsense," she said. "I have noticed that you've been walking around with slumped shoulders recently, and I've missed your usual friendly smile. If that's been missing because you've gotten the notion that you're not pretty, you need to forget that idea. You change as you grow, but you are definitely not ugly. You're a lovely young lady." She picked up her purse. "I need to go to the store," she added. "Want to come along?"

When they reached the produce department of the store, Mom pointed toward some strange, brown fruit. "Please get two kiwi for me," she said.

Lindsey picked up a piece of the fruit. "I don't remember having these funny-looking things before," she said. "Are you sure you want them?" Mom smiled and nodded as she added bananas to the basket.

After dinner that evening, Mom set out a colorful bowl of cut fruit for dessert. "This is a pretty kind!"said Lindsey, picking up a slice of fruit. She took a bite. "It's good! What is it?"

"It's kiwi," Mom informed her, smiling.

"You're kidding!" Lindsey gulped. "You mean this is that ugly, fuzzy, brown thing we bought?"

"That's right," said Mom. "It wasn't so pretty to look at, but it's what's on the inside that counts, not what's on the outside."

Dad nodded. "That's true of people, too," he observed. "The Bible says beauty is passing, but a woman who fears God will receive praise." He smiled at Lindsey. "Honey, why are you so concerned about your looks lately?" he asked. "Mom told me you thought you were ugly. You're not ugly, you know, but you've been covering up your sweet nature with complaints." He reached out and gave her a hug. "I really miss my old Lindsey."

"I think I like the old one better, too," Lindsey said. She grinned at her mom. "You can serve me kiwi, Mom, whenever you think I need a reminder."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you unhappy with the way you look? Do you wish you were taller? Or shorter? Do you wish your hair were a different color? Do you dislike some of your features? Learn to accept the way God made you, and be content. Being a beautiful person inside-whether you're a guy or a gal-is the important thing. Work on that by living the way God's Word tells you to live.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Charm is deceitful and beauty is passing, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised. Proverbs 31:30

[Soldier4Christ]

"New and improved," read Ashley's mother as she picked up a bottle of spot remover at the supermarket. She grinned at Ashley. "I heard this advertised on TV the other day. It's supposed to be better than ever before. According to the 'satisfied customer' on the commercial, it removes the most difficult stains. If you can believe everything you hear, it has never been known to fail."

"Oh, could we try it on my blue shirt? Please?" begged Ashley. "It's got that spot on the sleeve. I try to turn it to the inside a little so it won't show so much, but it doesn't stay in place very well. Maybe this stuff would take it out."

"Well, it's a lot more expensive than the kind I usually use," said Mom, "but I guess we can try it. Don't get your hopes up too much, though."

They took the spot remover home, and after carefully following the package directions, Ashley washed out the shirt. She was disappointed with the results. "I guess the money spent on that expensive stuff was wasted," said Ashley. She shook her head. "I can't believe it!" she added. "They can send men to the moon, but they can't find a way to get this little spot out."

Mom laughed. "That's true," she said. "Their best efforts have failed." She looked thoughtfully at the shirt. "You know, honey, there's another area where everyone's best efforts fail." She paused.

"Where's that, Mom?" asked Ashley.

"Everybody is born a sinner-it's as though the stain of sin is on each person's life," explained Mom. "People often try to hide the sin stain by being good, and sometimes they can even keep it out of the sight of other people. But it's still there! Nothing man can do is able to remove it. There is something that can wash sin away, though. Do you know what it is?"

"Sure, I do," said Ashley. "It's the blood of Jesus, and we don't have to pay a thing for it."

"That's right," said Mom. "Jesus paid it all. God offers salvation freely to all who will admit their need and accept Jesus as Savior. He alone can wash away out sins and make us clean and fit for heaven."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you try to cover up your sins or get rid of them through your own efforts? You'll never be able to do that. They need to be washed away by Jesus' blood. If you haven't done so before, won't you admit your failure today and allow Jesus to cleanse your heart and life?


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Jesus Christ . . . loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood. Revelation 1:5