Sermons4Kids

[Soldier4Christ]

 Every Litter Bit

"I better go clean my room," said Kate as she watched Mrs. Cook and her two small children walk to their car. "Those little kids messed it up completely this afternoon."

"I know, honey, but try to remember that you used to be little yourself," Mom reminded her. "I'll help you straighten things up before we go to pick up Dad at the airport." Kate and Mom got busy, and soon the job was finished.

After meeting Dad, Kate had a can of soda pop while they waited for his luggage. She finished her pop just as they left the building. When they reached the car, she looked around the parking lot and then casually dropped the can on a clump of grass near a light post. She unwrapped a piece of candy and left the wrapper beside the pop can.

"Don't leave your trash out here on the ground!" exclaimed Mom.

Kate shrugged. "Everybody does it," she said.

"Pick that up right now and put it in the car," ordered Dad. "You know we recycle the cans, and you can put the candy wrapper in the wastebasket at home." Kate frowned, but she did as she was told and climbed into the car.

"Mrs. Cook and the children stopped in this afternoon," Mom told Dad as he started the car.

"And those little kids terrorized my room!" Kate blurted out.

"I guess toddlers can make a mess in a hurry, can't they? But I'm sure they'll learn to do better before too long," said Dad with a smile. He glanced back at Kate as he drove out of the parking lot and turned onto the street. "It's even worse when adults or older kids don't take care of things," added Dad.

"Dad! You mean me, don't you?" grumbled Kate. "Just because I was going to leave a couple of things on the ground like everybody else does."

"God created our beautiful earth, honey," replied Dad. "He said He was giving man 'dominion' over it. We should be faithful caretakers, but we often don't take good care of His property. We mess it up by polluting."

Kate got the point. She knew that was what she would have done if her parents hadn't stopped her.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you take good care of God's earth? Or do you carelessly throw down candy or gum wrappers? Do you figure someone else will pick them up, or that such little things don't matter? They do matter. You may have heard the slogan that says "every litter bit counts." Take time to find a wastebasket and dispose of trash properly. Respect God's earth the way you would want others to respect your property.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein. Psalm 24:1

[Soldier4Christ]

 Guilty

Where's Friskie? wondered Monica when she got home from school. He always meets me at the door. Then she saw it-a trail of tissue paper leading from the bathroom down the hall. "Oh, you did it again, you naughty puppy!" scolded Monica. "Come here, Friskie!" A white ball of fur came slinking out from under Monica's bed, tail tucked between its legs. Monica laughed. "You know you're guilty, don't you?" she said, picking up the puppy and fluffing his fur. "But I love you anyway, and I forgive you. Let's get this mess cleaned up."

That night, Monica had trouble sleeping. She couldn't forget something bad she had done that afternoon. She tossed and turned as it went over and over in her mind. Why did I do that? she kept asking herself. Why did I steal that money? I'm a Christian, and I know Jesus must be unhappy with me. I wish I could hide! She pulled the blanket over her head, but it didn't help. Suddenly, Monica shivered. It seems as if . . . as if . . . "Mom!" she called. "Mom!"

The light came on, and Monica blinked as she lowered the blanket and saw her mother's concerned look. "Oh, Mom," gasped Monica, wide-eyed, "I thought . . . well, it seemed like . . . like Jesus was right here."

Mom smiled. "You know Jesus is always with you, honey," she said, "but why does that frighten you? Jesus loves you."

Monica shivered. "I . . . I . . . oh, Mom, I stole some money from Sue. It was on her desk, and . . ."

"And that's why you're afraid," said Mom when Monica paused. "The sense of God's presence is frightening when we have sin in our lives. It makes us want to hide from Him, but we can't do that." She put her arms around Monica. "Remember how Friskie tried to hide after dragging the tissue paper down the hall from the bathroom?" Mom asked.

Monica nodded. "Yes, but it didn't work. I knew where he was hiding and I knew what he did. He knew, too. I could tell he was ashamed, and I forgave him."

"When we're sorry and confess our sin, God forgives us, too," said Mom.

"I'll ask Him to do that," said Monica. Her voice trembled. "I'll return the money tomorrow." Together, Mom and Monica bowed their heads and prayed. Then Monica snuggled down under the covers, and soon she was fast asleep.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
How does it make you feel to know that Jesus is with you? Does it comfort you, or does it make you afraid? It should make you afraid if you know of a sin in your life and you don't want to confess it to God and forsake it. He knows all about it. If you're sorry for something you've done, tell God and ask His forgiveness. He loves you and wants to give you peace.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE: (Psalm 130:3-4)
O Lord . . . there is forgiveness with You.

[Soldier4Christ]

The Way Through the Maze

Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6 (NIV)

Do you like puzzles? One of my favorite types of puzzles is a maze. The solution to a maze is to find the path which leads from the starting point to the finish. The maze is a made up of many winding pathways, but there is only one path which leads to the goal. If you take the wrong path, you will wind up in a dead end and you have to back up and try again. Even though these puzzles can be a lot of fun and there is much satisfaction in reaching the goal, it can also be frustrating when every turn seems to lead us down the wrong path.

I imagine that must have been how Jesus' disciples felt in our Bible lesson today. Jesus knew that the day of his crucifixion was coming and that he would soon return to his Father in Heaven. He was trying to prepare his disciples for the time when he would no longer be with them. "Don't worry," Jesus said, "I am going to prepare a place for you. When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will be with me. You know the way to where I am going."

"No, we don’t," Thomas said. "We have no idea where you are going, so how can we know the way?"

Jesus answered him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me."

Philip, another of the disciples spoke up, "Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied."

Jesus replied, "Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don’t know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father! Just believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me." Jesus wanted his disciples to know he and the Father were one, and that if they put their trust in God and in him, they would one day join him in Heaven.

Sometimes life can be very confusing and we don't know where to turn or what path to take. It seems that every path we take leads to a dead end. When that happens, we just need to remember that Jesus said, "I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." If we will keep our eyes on Jesus and follow his teaching, we will find the path to our goal -- eternal life in Heaven with him.

Father, help us to keep our eyes on Jesus because we know that he is the way -- the only way. Amen.

[Soldier4Christ]

 Just a Kid

Logan wadded up another sheet of paper and tossed it toward the wastebasket. "I can't do this," he said. "I can't draw, and I don't know what to write, either." Each of the kids in Logan's after-school Bible club had been asked to make a poster inviting other kids to join them.

"Do your best, honey," said Mom. "It doesn't have to be perfect for the Lord to use it. Like your teacher said, kids might be more likely to come if they see that other kids are interested in Bible Club and are inviting them."

Logan frowned. "I'm going outside for a while," he said.

"All right," said Mom. "You probably need a break."

Logan went outdoors, sat on the steps, and watched his little sister, Betsy, as she played in the yard with Jenny, a neighbor girl, who was standing tall on a stump. "What are you kids playing?" Logan asked.

"We're playing David and Goliath," answered Betsy. "I'm David, and Jenny is the big Philistine giant." She grinned at her friend. "You come with a sword," Betsy called to Jenny, "and with a spear, but I'm not scared."

For a few minutes, Logan watched them play, and then he wandered back into the house. The paper and art materials were still lying on the table. I know I should try this again, but I can't believe anything I draw will get kids to come, he told himself. I think adults should make the posters. I'm just a kid. He sat down at the table with a sigh.

Just then Betsy danced in through the door, singing a song about David. Jenny chased in behind her. "Just think, Jenny!" said Betsy. "David was just a kid, and all he had was a sling and a stone, but he beat that huge giant."

"He had God, too," argued Jenny. "He could do anything God wanted him to do. Anybody can when they go to God for help." Noticing Logan, she went over to the table. "What are you doing?" Jenny asked.

Logan shrugged. "I'm supposed to make a poster for Bible Club," he said. When the girls giggled, it made Logan feel angry at first. But then he reached for a sheet of paper. "I can do this because I'm going to ask God to help me," he said. "He helped David, and He'll help me, too."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Is there something you feel God wants you to do, but it seems too hard for a kid? He won't ask you to do anything you can't do, but He might ask you to do something you think an older person should handle, or that you're afraid to do-like defend a kid others are picking on, share your testimony, or speak to a new classmate. If there's something you know you should do for the Lord, but you feel like you can't because you're "just a kid," remember David and ask God for help.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

[Soldier4Christ]

 Gift of Life

"Dad, does Uncle Jim know somebody named Alice-somebody who's going to die?" asked Ben. Dad looked puzzled. "When you and Mom were talking about Uncle Jim, I thought I heard you say the word 'die' and Alice's . . . Alice's something or other. I didn't quite get it." Ben frowned. "I know Uncle Jim hasn't been very well for a long time already. He isn't going to die, is he?"

"No, but as far as I know he doesn't know any 'Alice,'" replied Dad. Suddenly, he snapped his fingers. "I know what you heard us say!" he exclaimed. "Uncle Jim had told me that he needs to go on di-alysis. That's all one word-dialysis. It's a medical procedure. All of us have two kidneys that act as filters to remove poisons and impurities from our blood, but Uncle Jim's kidneys quit working."

"They did?" Ben looked worried. "If they're not working, he'll die, won't he?"

"Without treatment, he will," replied Dad. "He really needs a kidney transplant, but until that happens, he'll have to be connected to a dialysis machine every so often. It takes over the filtering work for the kidneys and removes poisons from the blood stream. Uncle Jim will have his first dialysis treatment next week."

"Oh, that's good then," said Ben.

During family devotions that evening, Dad read several verses from Romans (see today's Scripture). "When I talked to Uncle Jim last week, he told me that, for him, dialysis is like a gift of life because without it he would die," said Dad. "It reminded me that through Adam, we're all sinners, and sin results in death. But Jesus took the punishment we deserve, and offers us a gift of life-eternal life. When we accept Him as Savior, it's like He filters the sins out of our hearts and gives us new, everlasting life." Dad smiled at Ben. "That sounds something like dialysis, doesn't it?"

Ben grinned. "Yeah, but you said Uncle Jim will need more than one treatment. We accept Jesus only once, and He takes our sin away forever, right?"

"Good thinking," said Dad. "Dialysis is a wonderful thing, but salvation through Jesus Christ is even better."

"Yeah." Ben smiled. "But I sure am glad there's a machine that can help Uncle Jim, too," he added.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Have you received the gift of eternal life? Doctors and hospitals are able to accomplish wonderful things, but none so great as what Jesus did on the cross for you. Without Him, you are headed for eternal punishment-eternal death. But Jesus shed His blood so that your sins may be removed, your heart made clean. Won't you accept Him as your Savior today and receive the gift of life He offers?


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23

[Soldier4Christ]

 Panic Messages

"I need to go run some errands," said Kadie's mom one day. "I won't be gone long, but if the phone rings, just let the answering machine pick up the call. If you hear that it's Dad or me, you can pick it up."

Kadie grinned. "I know, Mom," she said. "You remind me every time you have to go and leave me alone."

Mom had been gone quite a while when the phone rang. "Hi, Kadie," came Mom's voice over the speaker. "Pick up the phone, please." But Kadie was looking for something in the basement and didn't hear the phone ring. Mom phoned again a little later. "Kadie, where are you?" she called when Kadie failed to pick up the phone again. But Kadie was still in the basement-and she missed the next two calls, also. Mom made one more call. "Kadie, answer me," she said. Kadie was upstairs then, and when she picked up the phone, Mom asked one question after another. "What's wrong? Where have you been? Are you okay?"

"Nothing's wrong. I was in the basement. I'm fine," replied Kadie.

When Mom got home, she and Kadie listened to the messages Mom had left. "I certainly sound shook up," said Mom. "I couldn't understand why you didn't answer." She gave Kadie a big hug.

For family devotions that evening, Dad read Scripture verses about Jesus coming to earth again. It made Kadie think about the calls her mother had made, and she had a question. "When Jesus comes and takes us to heaven, will our friends who aren't Christians try to find us and leave panic messages on the answering machine like Mom did?"

Mom looked concerned. "That's a good question," she said. "It's sad to think some of our friends will be left here-possibly crying out, 'Where are you? Why didn't you tell me what would happen so I could have been ready to go, too?'"

Dad nodded somberly. "We have a responsibility to tell our friends and other people about Jesus and His gift of salvation-and that He's coming again and they need to be ready."

Kadie nodded as she imagined hearing the voices of some of her classmates calling out to her after she'd gone. "We have a lot of work to do," she agreed.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do your friends and relatives know that Jesus could came back today? Do they know you're going to go to be with Him and that they can also be ready to go? Do they know how to be made ready? Remember that it's your responsibility to tell others about Jesus and His love for them. Will you share the message with a friend or relative today?


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. Matthew 24:31

[Soldier4Christ]

 Step by Step

The contents of Noah's model airplane kit lay scattered on the desktop in front of him. A frown creased his forehead as he looked at the part he held in his hand. He was so engrossed in what he was doing that he didn't notice his dad come into the room. "How's the plane coming along?" asked Dad.

"Oh . . . hi, Dad," said Noah. "I'm having trouble with the wing assembly on this plane. I just can't get it right."

"Maybe I can help you," offered Dad. He picked up the instruction sheet and began reading, step by step. As he read, Noah checked to see that each step was done right.

At step number four, Noah stopped him. "This piece is on upside down!" exclaimed Noah. He quickly fixed the problem. "This isn't so hard when you follow the instructions," he said with a grin. He set the plane aside. "I hate to stop now, but I gotta get at my Bible club lesson or Mom will get after me! My teacher gave us some questions to answer, and Mom said I had to have them finished before dinner."

Dad smiled. "Well, good," he said. "After all, the Bible is God's instruction manual for us, so it's important to learn all we can from it."

"Yeah," said Noah. "I have step by step instructions for my model plane. It would be nice if the Bible gave step by step instructions for living."

"Well," said Dad, "it explains the first step we need to take-one of faith in Jesus for salvation. It also tells many specific commands, or instructions, and many principles God wants us to follow after we're saved." Dad pointed toward the plane. "Remember what happened when you didn't follow one part of your airplane instructions?"

"Yeah," said Noah. "The other pieces didn't go together right."

"You need to follow all the instructions given by the manufacturer," said Dad. "And in daily living, we need to follow all the instructions God shows us in His Word. We can't just pick and choose the ones that appeal to us."

"But there's an awful lot to learn in the Bible," said Noah.

"Another good reason to get at your Bible lesson," replied Dad with a smile. "Learn a little more each day, and with God's help obey what He shows you."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you reading and studying God's Word? He has given you the Bible-a complete set of instructions. In order to follow them, you have to learn what they are. You get help with that in church and Sunday school, Bible club, and by listening during family devotions. You also learn as you faithfully read and study the Bible on your own.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God . . . rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

[Soldier4Christ]

 God's Treasure Box

Grace looked over the contents of her treasure box. She took a couple of items out and inspected them. Here's a special note from Grandma . . . a ballet ticket stub . . . a fitness award patch . . . a birthstone ring . . . a Garfield book. She smiled as she returned them to her box. She often did this before going to bed. Seeing her treasures brought memories that gave her good, warm feelings.

One morning, Grace's little sister greeted her eagerly. "I had a dream last night," said Annie, "and it was about a great, big, huge treasure box. It was way bigger than yours, and lots prettier, too! It sparkled all over. And it was as tall as the sky! Don't you wish your box was like that?"

Grace grinned at Annie. "What was in the box?" asked Grace.

"I . . . ah . . . I don't know," said Annie. 'I couldn't see inside it."

"Well, who do you think would ever own such a big, fancy box?" Grace asked. "A king? Or the President?"

"I . . . I know who!" exclaimed Annie. "God could have a box like that."

Grace grinned. "If God had a treasure box, what would He put in it?" she asked. "Rainbows, maybe? Or oceans? How about mountains? Or gold?" Annie nodded, but no answer seemed quite right to Grace.

Mom smiled. "Let's think about it today," she suggested. "Let's see who can come up with an even better answer."

"Okay," agreed Grace, but her day was busy, and she soon forgot the question.

When Grace got home from school, Annie was waiting for her. "I know what God would put in His treasure box!" said Annie bouncing up and down. "I know the answer!"

"You do?" asked Grace. "How do you know? Mom told you, didn't she?" Grace turned to her mother. "What is it, Mom?" asked Grace. "Tell me, too!"

"Go look up Deuteronomy 7:6," suggested Mom with a smile. (See today's memory verse.) "Maybe that will help you figure it out."

When Grace took her Bible and looked up the verse, she saw the answer to the question. People, she thought. God would put the people who love Him in His treasure box. Grace smiled. She knew she was part of God's treasure.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you part of God's treasure? Perhaps you didn't know He has treasure. Well, in today's Key Verse, He called the nation Israel, His treasure-they're His special people. God's children-those who have trusted Jesus as Savior-may be called His treasure, too. Are you included in that group? Knowing that you're a treasure to God should give you joy, comfort, and peace.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for Himself, a special treasure. Deuteronomy 7:6

[Soldier4Christ]

 A Gentle Push

Matt and his father were on a fishing trip when Matt made a discovery-an eagle's nest way up near the top of a tall tree. And up in the sky, they saw a large bird soaring high over the river. Matt let out a long breath. "Wow!" he exclaimed. "I wish I could fly like that!" Eagles were his favorite bird, but he had never seen a real one before, except in a zoo.

"Well, that eagle didn't always have such great flying skills," said Dad. "I've read that baby eagles are afraid of flying. In fact it takes a great deal of their mother's prodding to get them out of their soft, warm nest."

"I know. I read that, too," said Matt. "My book said that the mother eagle pushes the babies right out over the side of the nest. That must be scary for them." Matt looked again at the nest so high in the tree.

Dad nodded. "They probably think they'll fall to the ground," he said.

"Yeah," said Matt, "but my book said that after the mother eagle lets one of the eaglets flutter and fall for a bit, she soars underneath it and lets it land on her wings. Then she takes it back to the nest. She does that over and over until they're brave enough and strong enough to fly on their own."

A few days later, Matt was asked to do something he'd never done before-give his testimony at a youth group meeting. He agreed to do it, but he felt nervous about it! "I wish they hadn't asked me," he groaned on the afternoon before the meeting. "I'm so scared!"

Overhearing him, Dad spoke up. "I know it's scary to you, Matt," he said, "but you haven't forgotten how little eagles learn to fly, have you?"

"What does that have to do with giving a testimony?" Matt wanted to know.

"The way God helps His children is something like the way a mother eagle helps her babies," explained Dad. "Sometimes He has to give you a gentle push  to get you to try new things-things that at first make you feel helpless or afraid. But He'll be there to teach you and catch you."

"I hope so!" said Matt, but then he frowned and shook his head. "No, that's not right," he added. "I don't hope so; I know so."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you get nervous about speaking up and giving your testimony? Do you hesitate to invite kids to Sunday school for fear they'll laugh at you? Do you feel like you don't know what to say when you have a chance to let kids know you love God. He's there to help you as you "try out your wings." Even when you feel as if you're falling-or failing-you'll discover that God is with you. The Bible says, "Underneath are the everlasting arms"-God's arms. Trust Him to help you.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. Isaiah 40:31

[Soldier4Christ]

We Are the Sermon

"If you love me, you will obey what I command. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Counselor to be with you forever— the Spirit of truth. The world cannot accept him, because it neither sees him nor knows him. But you know him, for he lives with you and will be in you. John 14:15-17 (NIV)

A long time ago -- before any of you were even born -- movie theaters often had a Saturday afternoon movie for children. Each week children would go to the theater and watch a great movie. Some of the more popular ones were the cowboy movies starring the great cowboys like Roy Rogers. (Show the picture of Roy Rogers.) Each week, right at the moment when the hero was in a very dangerous situation and it looked like he was a "goner" for sure, the movie would suddenly stop and on the screen flashed the words, "To be continued...." Oh no! Now the children would have to wait until the next Saturday to find out how the hero was going to get out of this mess. The next Saturday, the movie would review what had happened the week before, so that if someone had missed it, they would understand what was going on.

This week's Bible lesson is a bit like one of those Saturday movies. It is actually last week's lesson continued. In case some of you missed last week's lesson, let me explain what happened. Jesus was trying to comfort his disciples. He knew that he would soon return to heaven and his disciples would be left alone. "Don't worry" he told them, "I am going to prepare a place for you, but I will come again, and when I do, you will come and be with me." The disciples didn't fully understand, so in this week's lesson, Jesus continues... " If you love me, you will do what I have taught you and I will ask the Father to send a helper who will never leave you." The helper that Jesus was talking about is the Holy Spirit. Jesus asked the Father and he sent the Holy Spirit to live in us and help us to follow Jesus and obey his teachings.

You know, when we try to explain how the Holy Spirit leads us day by day, most people can't understand it. Jesus said, "The world can't accept it because they don't know him and they can't see him." Do you know what they can see? They can see how you and I treat other people. They see when we are generous, loving, caring, helpful, and kind. I have heard it said, "You are the only sermon some people will ever hear." That is what you and I need to remember -- we are the sermon -- the only sermon some people will ever hear.

Jesus said, "If you love me, you will obey what I command." What did Jesus tell us to do? He said, "Love one another as I have loved you." Then he asked the Father to send the Holy Spirit to help us. When others see how knowing Jesus has changed the way we treat other people, then they will want to know him too.

Father, as the Holy Spirit leads us day by day, help us to follow and to obey. Amen.

[Soldier4Christ]

 Christy and the Spiders

Christi leaned against a tree as she pointed toward some girls across the playground. "It looks like Maggie and Barb are teasing the little kids again," she said. "I think one is crying. Maybe we should go see if we can stop them."

"If we do, we'll probably get blamed," replied Dana. "Those girls do so many nasty things, but they always manage to blame somebody else. They get away with everything. It's not fair!"

"Yeah," agreed Christi. "I wish they'd get caught once! But let's go see what we can do." As she stepped away from the tree, she looked down. "Oh-h-h!" she gasped. "A spider!" She pointed to a large web at the base of the tree.

Dana laughed. "My brother collects spiders, so I'm used to them," she said. "Look! It trapped a fly."

Christi watched the spider for a moment. "Maggie and Barb are like that spider," she said. "His web gets flies and other insects into trouble, but he runs around in there with no problem at all. That's like those girls. They get other kids into trouble, but they go free." Dana nodded.

Christi thought about the spider so much during the afternoon that she almost referred to the girls as "spiders" during class! When she got home, she talked with her mother about it.

"Why do some people never get caught when they do wrong stuff?" Christi asked. "Maggie and Barb are so mean. They're like spiders who catch other insects in their webs while they stay safe."

"I've heard that it's possible-though not too likely-for a spider to get caught in its own web," said Mom. "I don't know if that's really true, but I wouldn't be surprised if those girls get tangled in their own 'web' some day."

"Good! I hope they get good and stuck," grumbled Christi angrily. "Dana and I feel like giving them a big dose of their own medicine-treat them the way they treat other kids. They deserve it. They get away with so much!"

Mom frowned. "I know it makes you angry, but Maggie and Barb need your prayers, honey," she said gently. "All sin will one day be judged by God, so they're not really getting away with anything. Don't take it upon yourself to punish the girls. Pray about it and let God take care of it." Christi solemnly nodded.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you know kids who seem to get away with doing wrong? Does it make you angry? That's understandable, but don't allow it to produce a sinful attitude in your own life. Always remember that God sees and knows all about what's going on. If He shows you some way to help those being hurt, do that, but don't take punishment into your own hands. Instead, pray that those doing wrong will change. Trust God, knowing He will judge all sin at the right time.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Cease from anger, and forsake wrath; do not fret- it only causes harm. Psalm 37:8

[Soldier4Christ]

 Practice Makes Perfect

As Nolan's parents discussed plans for the coming weekend, Nolan took another helping of potatoes. "Hey! Pass the gravy," he said, interrupting their conversation. "Pass the salt, too."

Dad frowned. "Didn't you notice that your mother and I were talking?" he asked. "You interrupted us. And whatever happened to saying 'please'?"

"Well, sor-ree," said Nolan. "But pass the gravy. I need some more."

Mom shook her head. "Nolan, you're being very rude," she said sternly. "That's been happening too often lately."

Nolan rolled his eyes. "Well, it's not like we're out in a restaurant or at somebody's house or anything."

"You mean you'd use better manners in a restaurant?" asked Dad.

"Sure," answered Nolan. "I try to remember to be polite when I'm with other people, but you don't expect me to be all proper around here at home, do you?"

"We certainly do!" exclaimed Mom. "You seem to think you should respect only people outside your own family-that you need to use good manners only when you're with other people. That's not what the Bible teaches."

"The Bible says you are to honor your parents," added Dad. "Developing good manners-and using them at home-is one way of showing honor and respect. It's the perfect place to learn to make right choices. It's where you should be practicing the right way to do things"

Nolan frowned. "Practicing?" he asked.

"Practicing!" said Dad. "A football player practices to get in shape for the Super Bowl, and a figure skater practices to get in shape for the Olympics. And here at home, you should practice doing things right so that in school or in the neighborhood or wherever you are, you'll be in shape to behave correctly." He paused. "They say 'practice makes perfect,' you know."

"Well, I . . . I'm sorry I was . . . ah . . . rude," murmured Nolan.

"All right," said Dad. "Apology accepted. I think you understand what we're saying. Do you have any questions?"

Nolan looked thoughtful. After a moment, he grinned. "Yes," he said. "May I please have some more of that delicious gravy?"


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Does your behavior at home show that you honor your parents? You should be polite and thoughtful at all times, especially at home. That's the place God has provided for you to learn and practice proper behavior. Doing so will please your parents, but best of all, it will please God. And it will prepare you to be polite wherever you are.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Let them (children and grandchildren) first learn to show piety at home. 1 Timothy 5:4

[Soldier4Christ]

 No Sneaking In

"Hey, Sam," whispered Caleb after the two boys had gone to bed, "I meant to ask Dad if I could bring some lures he bought the other day, but I forgot." The boys, along with the rest of their Sunday school class, were going on a fishing trip the next morning, and Caleb was spending the night at Sam's home.

"Let's run over to your house and get the lures," said Sam.

"It's too late," replied Caleb. "Everybody will be sleeping. Besides, Dad might not let me use them anyway."

"We could sneak in, and you could just borrow them," said Sam. "Come on. He'll probably never know about it. If he does find out, you can explain that we didn't want to bother him so late." After thinking it over, Caleb agreed.

The boys quietly left the house and hurried to Caleb's home. As expected, the house was dark. Caleb tried all the doors, but they were locked. "I'll pry the screen off my bedroom window," he whispered. "I've climbed in there before."

Caleb tried to be quiet, but the noise woke his parents. His father went to investigate. Caleb had one foot through the open window when Dad yelled, "Stop!"

Caleb froze as his father towered over him. "Don't hit me, Dad!" gasped Caleb. "It's Sam and me!"

His father flicked on a light. "Caleb? Sam? What's going on here?" he asked. "Why are you sneaking in through the window?" Caleb gulped. He knew he and Sam had a lot to explain.

The next morning, the boys had to tell their Sunday school teacher what had happened. "My dad thought we were burglars," said Caleb. He sighed. "He says we really were, in a way, because we were sneaking in to get the lures without asking. Now we can't go anywhere-not even on the fishing trip."

"Remember our lesson last week?" asked Mr. Bates. "None of us deserve to go to heaven, but Jesus made a way for us. What name for Jesus did we learn?"

"Um . . . oh, I know," said Sam. "He's called the 'door' because it's only through Him that anyone can enter heaven."

"Right," said Mr. Bates. "You couldn't sneak into your house, Caleb, and I hope you boys know you'll never be able to sneak into heaven. You must enter heaven by the door-by accepting Jesus as Savior-or you won't get in."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you trying to "sneak" into heaven-to get in without trusting in Jesus? You can't do it. On earth, a person might be able to sneak into a house and get away with it, but the only way to get into heaven is through the door-Jesus Christ. Trust in Him today.


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

[Soldier4Christ]

 Granny's Helper

As Kevin looked out the window at the falling rain, he felt like his life was as dismal as the day. Dad left home, and we don't even know where he is, thought Kevin. Now Mom is sick, and it's up to me to look after her and my two little sisters. But how can I do all that, plus run my paper route and go to school? I sure can't do it all alone.

Just then the city bus pulled up to the corner and an elderly woman got off. It was Granny Gresham, a nearby neighbor, and she had a big suitcase. The wind was so strong that Granny could scarcely take a step forward, and she bent way over as she tried to walk. Kevin hurriedly pulled on a raincoat and headed for the door. "I'm going to help Granny Gresham," he called to his mother. "She's out in the storm."

Kevin ran over to their neighbor and took the suitcase for her. When they finally reached her home, she turned to him gratefully. "What would I have done without your help?" she said. "How about a cup of hot cocoa?"

"Thanks, but I have to hurry home," replied Kevin. "Mom's sick."

"Oh, that's too bad," sympathized Granny. "Now just remember that you don't have to face your problems alone, Kevin. I know you love the Lord, so don't forget that He's always with you, ready to take your burdens. Go to Him in prayer and ask Him to give you the help you need."

As Kevin hurried home, he thought about Granny's words. Heavenly Father, he prayed silently, I feel like I have more stuff to take care of than I can handle, so thank You that Granny reminded me that You're with me all the time. Please show me what I can do to help Mom and to take care of my sisters and school work and everything.

That night, Kevin received a phone call. It was Granny. "Will you carry my suitcase once more?" she asked. "I'm coming to your house to help out until your mom is well." Kevin grinned. Thank You, Jesus, he prayed. Thank you for showing me that you really are with me. I didn't know what I was going to do or how I could manage everything, and now You're helping me by sending Granny to us. Thank You so much!


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you have problems that you don't know how to handle? Do you think there's no one who can help you? If you know Jesus, He invites you to boldly come to Him. He has the power to solve every problem. Talk to Him about your situation, and trust Him to help you carry out all your responsibilities. Perhaps He'll send someone to help you with them, or maybe He'll show you how to handle them yourself. Either way, give your burdens to God, and trust Him for answers.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

[Soldier4Christ]

 A Stiff Competitor

As Jayden started the final lap of his practice run, he felt all worn out, but he made himself keep going as fast as he possibly could. If I can run this fast tomorrow, I'll get the gold medal for sure, he thought, gasping for breath as he ran through the imaginary finish line. I just have to beat Isaac this year.

"Hi, speedy," a voice called from beside the track. "I came to get you for supper."

"Already? Can't I stay and run just a little longer before it gets dark?" begged Jayden when he saw his father waiting. "I can eat later."

"We've already allowed you to miss dinner with us twice this week, Son," said Dad. "Food is just as necessary as running practice."

"Okay. I gotta admit I'm kinda hungry," said Jayden. "Maybe I can run a little more after supper."

"I don't think you'll have time," said Dad. "There's a youth service at church tonight, isn't there?"

"Yeah," said Jayden, "but the track meet is tomorrow, and there will be a lot of stiff competition-none as hard as Isaac, though. He'll be the toughest guy to beat."

"I know, but are you aware that you also have another competitor?" Dad asked. "One who's trying-even harder than Isaac is-to beat you?"

"Who?" asked Jayden, glancing around.

"You won't see him on the field," Dad said. "He's not even interested in your track record. He's interested in your heart, your soul, and your mind." Jayden looked down. He knew now who Dad meant. "Satan is a stiff competitor. He doesn't care if you win or lose this meet," continued Dad, "but he cares a great deal about having you neglect fellowship with God and with other Christians. To beat Isaac, you've strengthened your body through hard practice. To beat the devil, you need to strengthen your faith and trust in God through prayer and learning more about Him-like who He is and what He does for you."

Jayden was thoughtful as he gathered up his things. Then he grinned. "Okay, Dad," he said. "I know I need to train to win against Satan, and I'm sure you'll pray about those things. Then do you think you could pray for my legs, too?"

Dad smiled as they walked away together. "I sure can," he agreed.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Does something in your life take away from time spent with God? Even great activities such as sports, hobbies, or time spent with friends should not replace your time with God. Think of life as a great competition in which you can train for the winner's prize that God makes available. Don't let Satan beat you out of it. Defeat him by learning more of God's Word, praying, fellowshipping with other Christians, participating in church activities, and serving the Lord.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:14