Sermons4Kids

[Soldier4Christ]

 A Green Thumb

Plink! Plink! Plink! One by one, Abbie slowly picked out the notes of the music for her piano recital. This is so hard, she thought. I'm not sure I'll ever get it good enough to play in front of a bunch of people! Abbie struggled on for a few minutes. Suddenly, she closed the music book, tossed it on the floor, and began to play a song from memory. This is much more fun, she told herself.

Later that day, Abbie helped her mother plant seeds in the flower garden. "You always have such pretty flowers, Mom," said Abbie. "Grandma says you have a green thumb-whatever that means."

Mom laughed. "She means I have a talent for growing things," she replied. "That may be true, but I have to do a lot of work, too. Thomas Edison, the great inventor, once said, 'Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.' I think he's right."

"You do work hard in the yard," agreed Abbie. She grinned. "What's worse," she added teasingly, "is that you make me work hard, too. I don't mind gardening, but I don't have a green thumb like you do."

"Which activity do you like best of all?" asked Mom. "What's your favorite thing to do?"

"Oh . . . let's see . . . play the piano," decided Abbie. Then she frowned. "But I'm already tired of practicing my recital piece," she added, "and I just got it. I wish I didn't have to practice so much."

"So I guess music is your 'green thumb' area," said Mom. "You definitely have a talent for playing the piano. But if you want to develop that into something worthwhile, you'll have to work hard at it-just like I have to work hard at gardening even though I have a 'green thumb.' God wants us to use our talents for Him, and He deserves the very best we can do. That takes work."

"I guess so," agreed Abbie. After a moment, she grinned, "But I don't think it's fair," she added. "I can help you in the garden, but you can't help me play the piano."

"That's true," said Mom, "but I'll tell you what. When we're done here, I'll use another of my talents while you practice the recital piece. I'll work on your new outfit. How's that?" Smiling, Abbie agreed.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
In what area do you have a "green thumb"? What talents has God given you? There are many ways in which you can serve God. They can range from performing before groups of people to serving quietly in the background. Singing, speaking, helping others, sewing, cooking, writing, offering friendship-whatever it is that you do well is a talent God can use. Forget about other people and what they think of it. Simply do your best to develop it and use it for God's glory.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Obey in all things . . . not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. Colossians 3:23

[Soldier4Christ]

 The Form Letter

"I met Todd Brewer, and he even gave me his autograph!" exclaimed Zach when he and his father got home from the baseball game. Zach paused and grinned. "The guys at school will be surprised that I know Todd now!"

"Know him!" scoffed Zach's sister, Bailey. "You only met him once, and he meets a lot of people! He probably doesn't even remember your name."

"I'll bet he does," insisted Zach. "I'm going to write him a letter tomorrow, and I'm sure he'll write back. You'll see!"

A few weeks later, the letter Zach was hoping for arrived. "I told you he'd write back," exclaimed Zach, smiling broadly as he tore the envelope open. A moment later, his smile faded. "Aw, it's just a form letter," he grumbled. "I bet Todd didn't even sign it-looks like it's a stamped-on signature."

At dinner that evening, Dad asked Zach to lead them in prayer before they ate. "Thank you, God, for this delicious food and all our blessings," mumbled Zach quickly. "Help us do Your will. In Jesus' name, Amen." Without pausing, Zach continued. "I got a stupid form letter from Todd Brewer today, Dad." Zach got up and took the letter from a kitchen shelf. "Look!" He held it out to Dad.

"Nice," murmured Dad, looking at the letter. "It says he appreciated hearing from you." Dad nodded. "This is a well-written letter, isn't it? And it's almost a whole page long, too!"

"I'd rather have two lines scribbled by Todd himself," grumbled Zach. "At least I'd know the letter meant what it said."

"I see," said Dad. Then he added, "Zach, don't you think God might feel the same way about prayer?" Zach glanced at Dad in surprise. "It's very easy to mumble certain phrases in prayer without even thinking about the words or saying them with real meaning," continued Dad.

"Yeah, like you did tonight to thank God for our food," said Bailey.

Dad frowned at her. "Like we all do at times," he said. "Don't you think God would rather hear a simple, sincere prayer than empty, impersonal words? We need to think about what we're saying when we pray. God deserves better than a 'form letter' prayer."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you mean what you say when you pray? Or do you tend to repeat the words and phrases you hear other people use? Do your prayers all sound the same because you say the same things every time? That's something like a "form letter" prayer. God wants you to tell Him what you really feel. Tell Him exactly what your problems are and thank Him for specific blessings. God is not just a name or an idea-He's a real person. Make your prayers personal.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
When you pray, do not use vain repetitions as the heathen do. Matthew 7:6

[Soldier4Christ]

Standing Together As One

I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name—the name you gave me—so that they may be one as we are one. John 17:11 (NIV)

I am looking for someone who is very strong to help me this morning. Who would like to help? (If no one volunteers, choose someone.) You look pretty strong to me. Do you think you can break this stick? (Hand the child one small stick that can easily be broken.) Wow! You are strong! You easily broke that stick. Let's see if you can break these sticks. (Hand them the bundle of sticks that are bound together. After giving the child time to try to break the bundle of sticks, continue with the sermon.)

The sticks in this bundle are just like the stick that was so easily broken. Yet when they are bound together, they are much stronger than they are when they are by themselves. Even the very strongest person here this morning could not break this bundle of sticks.

These sticks can teach us an important lesson about the church. Sometimes when we think of the church, we think of a building where we come to worship, but the church isn't a building. The church is made up of men, women, boys, and girls who have chosen to follow Jesus. You, me, all of the people here today -- all of us together -- we are the church.

Some people say, "I can be a Christian without going to church" -- and that may be true -- but by ourselves we are not very strong. When Satan tries to tempt us to do something that we know is wrong, it may be difficult to resist him if we try to go it alone. But if we stand together with others who follow Jesus, they will be a source of strength and encouragement. We will be much stronger than we would be by ourselves.

One day, Jesus went off by himself to pray. He prayed for his disciples because he knew that his disciples had to live in the world and that they would be tempted by the evil things of the world. He also knew that if his disciples would come together as one, they would be much stronger than they would as individuals. So he prayed and asked God to protect them and to help them to be one, just as he and his Father were one.

When Satan tempts you to do things that you know are wrong, remember the lesson of the sticks -- there is strength in unity.

Father, protect us and help us to be one with other believers, just as you are one with Jesus. Amen.

[Soldier4Christ]

 Into the Net

"All right, boys," said Mike's dad with a grin, "time to learn how to fish for crabs." The three of them-Dad, Mike, and his friend Jeff-stood in the water up to their knees. "Here, Mike," said Dad. "Tie a chicken neck to one end of this long string, and hold tight to the other end. Jeff, you handle this net."

"This is weird!" said Mike, following Dad's instructions.

"Okay, Mike," said Dad, "throw the chicken neck out as far as you can. Wait a few minutes, and then start pulling in the line real slowly so the crabs don't get scared off." As Mike followed the instructions, Dad turned to Jeff. "Be ready with the net, Jeff. Wait till the crabs come close so you can scoop them up."

The boys could hardly believe it would work, but just like Dad predicted, Mike soon felt something tugging on the line as he pulled. "I see them!" yelled Jeff.

"Wait till you can reach them with your net," cautioned Dad. "Then drop it right behind them. They'll see you and run backwards right into the net."

"Wow!" yelled both boys when they saw that Dad was right. "Three at one time!" They quickly put the crabs in a bucket. Then they took turns using the net, continuing to catch crabs for a couple of hours.

On the way home, the boys talked about things that were happening at school. "Whoever wrote all the stuff on the restroom walls is going to be in big trouble when he gets caught," said Mike.

"Yeah," agreed Jeff. "And those guys who got caught smoking are in big trouble already."

"Sounds like Satan's doing the same kind of fishing in your school as we've been doing today," said Dad.

Jeff laughed. "I didn't see any chicken necks at school," he said.

"No," replied Dad, "kids wouldn't like chicken necks, but the crabs did, didn't they? They were so intent on having them, that they didn't sense danger. They didn't begin to run until you dropped the net."

"Yeah," said Jeff, " and then they ran right into the net."

"Right," agreed Dad. "Satan works like that. He traps kids by using things that look attractive to them-cigarettes, drugs, bad movies, gangs. He even uses some good things to lure people away from church and God. If you play around with temptation and sin, you can run into the 'net' and end up in Satan's trap."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
What does Satan use to lure you away from God? Think about it. Are you so eager to be popular that you'll be unfriendly to other kids? Are you so eager to get good grades that you'll cheat to do so? So eager to make a sports team that you'll skip Sunday school to play games? Things you find attractive may be fine, but Satan wants you to believe it's okay to use any means to get them. Don't be fooled into thinking there's no danger ahead. Walk away before Satan lowers the net.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
(Instruct them) that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil. 2 Timothy 2:26

[Soldier4Christ]

 Without a Script

As the curtain dropped at the end of her school play, Tara's parents made their way backstage. "You remembered every line perfectly," said Dad, giving her a hug. Mom nodded in hearty agreement.

Tara smiled. "Before the curtain rose at the beginning, I was so scared! I didn't see how I was going to get through it without my script in front of me," she confessed, "but when I had to start talking, the words just came back."

"What's a script?" asked Tara's little brother.

"You know, Bobby," said Tara. "It's a copy of the play. On my copy, I marked the words I had to say." She smiled at a girl walking by. "Good job, Mia," said Tara.

"Thanks," murmured Mia. "You did good, too, Tara."

As Tara and her family drove home, Tara spoke thoughtfully. "Remember Mia?" she asked. "She seems really unhappy lately. I . . . I feel like I should talk to her, but I'm afraid I might say the wrong thing." She looked at the script she held in her hand. "I wish there were a script to use for that sort of thing," she added.

Dad smiled. "Well, you're in good company," he said. "I think the Apostle Paul was sometimes a bit concerned about saying the wrong thing, too."

"You're kidding!" exclaimed Tara. "Paul was one of the greatest preachers ever!"

"But he was human-just like you. He had a big responsibility-just like you," said Dad. "Do you know what he did about it?"

"Maybe he prayed," suggested Bobby.

"Yes, he did," answered Dad, "and he also asked his Christian friends to pray that God would put the right words into his mouth."

"And did God do that?" asked Tara. "Sort of like the way the right words to the play popped into my head tonight?"

"Sort of," agreed Dad. "Only the words he spoke came from God, not from a script. You may not know the right thing to say to Mia, but God knows exactly what you need to say-and what Mia needs to hear. If you believe He wants you to talk with her, go for it, trusting God to help you. Mom and I will pray for you, too."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Does the idea of speaking to others about the Lord frighten you? Do you worry that you might say the wrong thing or not be able to think of anything to say at all? Ask God to help you speak the right words at the right time-just like He helped Paul and Moses. Trust God to give you the words you need when you need them.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Go, and I (God) will be with your mouth and teach you what you shall say. Exodus 4:12

[Soldier4Christ]

 The Dead Stick

Mark frowned and kicked at a stone as he walked home from school. As he approached Mr. Burk's house, he saw his Sunday school teacher working in the yard. "Hi there, Mark," said Mr. Burk. "How are you today?"

"Okay," muttered Mark. He shuffled his toe in the dirt. "But I'm always getting into trouble at school," he added with a sigh. "Since I've been coming to your Sunday school class, I've been trying to change and be good-but I just can't seem to do it. Today I had to stay in at recess because I got to school late."

Mr. Burk leaned on his rake. "Oh, I'm sorry to hear that," he said.

Mark shrugged. "Like I told you, I'm trying to do better, but I guess I'm hopeless," he said.

"Oh, no, no, no!" said Mr. Burk. "You're not hopeless. I think you're just depending on the wrong things to help you." He picked up a small, dead branch that had fallen from a tree. "I just finished raking here, and now I'm going to plant fruit trees out back," he said. "I'll water them and put fertilizer around them, and one day, they'll bear juicy peaches and apples for me to eat." He held up the dead branch. "Why don't you help me plant this one?"

Mark laughed. "You're kidding," he said. "That's a dead stick. You know it won't grow."

Mr. Burk looked at the stick. "But I'll treat it just like all the other trees, and then when I get fruit from it, I'll share it with you, Mark."

"It's dead!" repeated Mark. "That stick will never have any fruit."

"True," Mr. Burk agreed. "A dead stick can't produce fruit. And you know what, Mark? You may be like this stick-you don't have true life, either, if you haven't accepted Jesus as Savior. Have you done that?"

"No, I . . . I . . ." stammered Mark. "I thought if I'd just go to church and read the Bible and . . . and do stuff like that, I'd be all right."

"You said you want to do better, but you need Jesus for that," said Mr. Burk. "Even if you read the whole Bible and go to church and pray, you can't produce the fruit of a Christian life if you don't have Christ's life within you." Mr. Burk smiled at Mark. "Would you like to hear again how you can receive real life through Christ?" Solemnly, Mark nodded.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you have Christ's life within you? Or do you try hard to be good, only to fail? Maybe you try hard, and maybe you even see some improvement, but you can't really live the Christian life if you don't have Life-the Lord Jesus-within you. Ask Him to save you now.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. 1 John 5:12

[Soldier4Christ]

 Pay Attention!

"Can I watch the map and tell you where to turn, Dad?" asked Brett eagerly as he and his father got ready to leave on their fishing trip.

"Think you can handle that?" asked Dad with a smile. "I'm not sure where we have to turn off the highway to get to Glen Lake. Maybe I'd better take a look before we start out."

"No . . . let me find it, okay?" pleaded Brett. Dad nodded, so while Dad drove, Brett took charge of the map. He quickly looked it over. "I see where we turn, Dad! I'll let you know when we're getting close," he promised. Brett continued to study the map. "This shows some other lakes that might be good for fishing," he said after a while. "Let's try one of them sometime."

 "Perhaps we can do that," said Dad, "but you're not forgetting to tell me where to turn to get to Glen Lake, are you? It seems to me we should have come to the road by now. What's the name of it? You didn't miss it, did you?"

"I don't think so." Brett took a closer look. "Oh, I think I did!" he admitted. Dad pulled to the side of the road so he could check the map himself. Then he turned the car around. Soon Brett spotted the sign for the road to Glen Lake. "There it is!" he exclaimed. "See . . . right there!" Dad nodded and turned at the next crossroad. Soon, they were at the lake, catching fish.

After a delicious fish dinner that evening, Dad picked up the family Bible. "Like a map, the Bible gives directions-directions for living," he said. "Brett and I found out that maps help us only if we pay attention to them, didn't we, Son?"

"That's for sure," agreed Brett, remembering the road they had missed.

"That's true about the Bible, too," said Dad. "I have to confess that when I was younger, I often daydreamed when I should have been listening-and sometimes that still happens." He grinned at Brett. "Never happens to you, does it?" asked Dad, and Brett wondered if his father knew how often it did happen to him. "I wonder how many times we miss out on important lessons-perhaps even on blessings-because we don't pay attention when God's Word is read or taught," continued Dad. "Let's guard against that, shall we?" Solemnly, Brett nodded.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you listen carefully while the Bible is being read or while Bible lessons are being taught? If you're in the habit of letting your thoughts drift during those times, make up your mind to break that habit. Begin paying close attention so you won't miss out on what God has for you. Think about what He says in His Word and how it applies to your life.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths. Psalm 25:4

[Soldier4Christ]

 What Matters

"This is fun," said Kelly as she helped her teacher decorate for a Sunday school party. After Mrs. Brown filled balloons with helium, Kelly tied a string on each one. "Do you suppose those new kids will come to the party?" Kelly wondered out loud. "You know-the Harper kids who came last Sunday? They're kind of different."

"All people are different," Mrs. Brown pointed out.

"I guess so," admitted Kelly, "but . . . " She frowned as she pictured the Harper children. She wondered if Mrs. Brown wouldn't agree that they wore funny old clothes, but she didn't dare ask.

Mrs. Brown looked thoughtful as she handed another balloon to Kelly. "We'll do two more balloons," she said. "Let's each choose a color, and when they're filled, we'll see which one will rise fastest."

"I'll have a blue one," said Kelly. "My favorite color is blue."

"And I'll take this purple one," said Mrs. Brown. "I think a purple balloon will go up to the ceiling faster than a blue one."

"Not if you fill them up the same," objected Kelly. She waited eagerly until both balloons were ready, and then watched the two balloons rise side by side. "See-it's the helium in the balloon that makes them rise," said Kelly with a grin, "not the color of the balloon."

"So it's what's inside that counts?" asked Mrs. Brown. When Kelly nodded, Mrs. Brown added, "You're right, of course, and that same principle should apply to people, shouldn't it?"

"Well . . . sure," said Kelly, glancing at Mrs. Brown. "I know that a person's color isn't the important thing."

"Good," replied Mrs. Brown, "but outside appearance versus what's inside can apply to more than color."

"You . . . you're thinking about the kind of clothes kids wear, aren't you?" asked Kelly slowly.

"Exactly," said Mrs. Brown. "We should welcome all kids to our class, no matter what color they are or what hair style they have or how they dress. What's inside is what matters. It's what's important to God, and it should be important to us, too."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
What's important to you? Skin color? The right kind of clothes? Good looks? People come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are better looking than others. Some can afford better clothes. But everyone has feelings and deserves to be treated kindly. Even more important-every person has a soul, and that soul is precious to God. Don't welcome only well-dressed kids or only those who live in lovely homes to your group. The Lord would want you to welcome all kinds of kids.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
If you show partiality, you commit sin. James 2:9

[Soldier4Christ]

 Grounded

Ben knew he was in trouble. He had arrived home late-again. "You said I could stay and play ball with the guys after school," he reminded his parents. The frowns on their faces told Ben that wasn't enough explanation. "The guys wanted to play just one more inning. The game was tied, and no one wants to quit then, do they?" he asked logically.

"No, I'm sure they don't," said Dad, "but Mom and I gave you a special warning to be home right on time today. We told you what the consequence would be if you didn't obey, so that's the way it's going to be. Is that clear?"

"You don't mean you're really going to ground me for the rest of the week, do you? Even Saturday?" asked Ben. He was horrified. "Oh, please-I promise to come straight home every day. Just don't ground me on Saturday!" he pleaded. "I'll miss all the fun!" But his parents remained firm in their decision.

Ben scowled as he turned away. "Who invented 'grounding' anyhow?" he muttered. "I don't think it's right to keep a person from his friends."

After dinner, Dad leafed through the family Bible. "Listen to this, Ben," he said when he found the passage he wanted. "I think you'll find this interesting." Dad began to read from the twelfth chapter of the book of Numbers. The verses told of Miriam, the sister of Moses. She had been a great help to her brother but later rebelled against him-and God had disciplined her. Dad read, "And the Lord said to Moses . . . let her be shut out from the camp for seven days, and after that, let her be received in again."

Dad closed the Bible and looked at Ben, whose downcast expression showed he realized that the idea of keeping a person from being with his friends hadn't been invented by his parents. "It's almost like Miriam was 'grounded' for a week, isn't it?" asked Dad. "God knew the kind of discipline Miriam needed at that point. She had to accept and learn from the punishment He ordered. We trust that you, too, will accept and learn from your grounding."

Ben sighed as he thought about it. Then he grinned feebly. "Oh, well, I guess it could be worse," he said. "At least you're not shutting me out in the backyard for seven days. Right?"


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you feel "picked on" when your parents punish you-especially if you feel you had a good reason for breaking a family rule? God has given your parents authority, and He says you are to honor and obey them. When you don't, it's their responsibility to take steps to teach you the importance of obedience. So even though discipline is painful, accept it. Learn from it.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
No chastening seems to be joyful for the present, but painful . . . afterward it yields the peaceable fruit of righteousness. Hebrews12:11

[Soldier4Christ]

 Unexpected Return

"Come on in, guys," invited Lance. "Mom and Dad won't be home until five today, so we can have some fun. We've got plenty of time." The boys charged into the house, and Lance looked in the cupboard for some munchies. As they all sat around talking and laughing and eating, Lance turned the TV to a channel his friends suggested. He turned up the volume and propped his feet on the coffee table.

"Lance Louis Brown!" Dad's voice boomed over the blare of the TV. Lance jumped up, trembling. Oh, no! he thought. What are they doing home already? "What's going on here?" asked Dad after switching off the TV. Turning to the boys, he added, "Sorry, guys, but I have to ask you to leave," and he showed them out the door. "All right, Lance," said Dad. "Start explaining. You know you're not allowed to have anyone in the house when we're away."

Lance felt sick. "I . . . I . . ." he stammered. "I didn't think you'd be home until five o'clock." Whoa! he thought. I shouldn't have said that. That was dumb! He knew he deserved the scolding and discipline he'd be given. And when he was sent to his room, he knew it would be quite some time before his parents allowed him to have friends over again.

Several weeks later, Lance nodded in agreement with what his Sunday school teacher was saying. "Many people think they have plenty of time before Jesus returns," said Mr. Grear. "They think they have plenty of time to try all sorts of wrong behavior before they get serious about accepting Jesus as Savior. Even Christians sometimes feel they can do as they please and then clean up their act just before Jesus comes. But He's going to come at an unexpected time, and then many people will be surprised and be sorry they weren't ready."

Lance raised his hand. "I know just what you mean," he said, and he went on to tell about the time his parents surprised him by coming home when he didn't expect them. "But that's not as bad as not being ready when Jesus comes, is it?" he finished.

"That's right," agreed Mr. Grear. He looked at the boys. "What will you be doing when Jesus comes again?" he asked. "Will you be ready?"


HOW ABOUT YOU?
What do you want Jesus to find you doing when He returns to earth-enjoying sinful pleasures or serving Him? Are you aware that He could come at any moment? If you don't know Him as Savior, accept Him now. Don't wait-you never know when time will run out. If you've trusted in Jesus, ask Him to help you live a godly life. If you live for Him each day, you won't be ashamed when He comes.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Be ready, for the Son of Man (Jesus) is coming at an hour you do not expect. Matthew 24:44

[Soldier4Christ]

Pentecostal Power

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Acts 2:1-4 (NIV)

On a hot summer day, an electric fan can really help to keep us cool. How does a fan help to keep us cool? That's right, it keeps us cool by blowing air. I think I will turn the fan on now. Do you see any air coming out of the fan? Well, if we can't see the air, how do you know the fan is working? There are several ways we can tell that this fan is working.

One way that we can tell that the fan is working is that I have tied some bright red streamers on the front of the fan. Even though we can't see the air, we can see the air blowing those streamers. That is one way we know the fan is working.

Another way we can know that the fan is working is that we can feel the air from the fan blowing against our faces. We can't see the air, but we can feel it.

Finally, we can know that the fan is working because we can hear the sound of the air and the rattling sound of the streamers as they blow. We can't see it, but we can hear it.

Today is a special day which many churches celebrate. It is called the day of Pentecost. Here is the story of how it all began.

The Bible tells us that on the day of Pentecost, the Jesus' followers were all gathered together in one place and God sent the Holy Spirit to give them the power to teach others about Jesus. Now, they couldn't see the Holy Spirit, so how did they know the Holy Spirit was there?

The Bible says that they knew the Holy Spirit was there because they could hear the sound of a mighty rushing wind coming from heaven. They couldn't see the Holy Spirit, but they could hear the sound of the wind just as we can hear the air blowing from this fan.

Then the Bible tells us that they saw what seemed to be flaming tongues of fire that came and rested on their heads. They couldn't see the Holy Spirit, but they knew that the Holy Spirit was there because they could see the flaming tongues of fire just as we can see these red ribbons on our fan.

Finally, the Bible tells us that they knew the Holy Spirit was there because they could feel his power. When they were filled with the Holy Spirit, he gave them the ability to speak in languages that they didn't even know, so that they could tell everyone about Jesus. They couldn't see the Holy Spirit, but they could feel his power in their life just as we can feel the air from this fan.

The Holy Spirit is still with us today. We can't see him, but we can hear him as he speaks to our hearts, we can see his moving in our life, and we can feel the power of his presence as he guides us through each day.

Dear Father, thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to be our teacher and guide. Help us to listen and obey as he teaches us how to tell others about Jesus. Amen.

[Soldier4Christ]

 True Worship

On the way home from church, Todd and Susan told their parents about the missionary who had spoken in their Sunday school department. "I thought idols were things people worshiped long ago, but Mr. Gates said a lot of them still exist," said Todd. "The people he works with have all kinds of strange practices and ways of worshipping their gods." Todd went on to describe some of them.

"One of the things they do at their temples is to leave food for their idols," Susan put in. "Isn't that silly? I'm glad we don't do stuff like that! We worship the true God when we go to church."

"Maybe we do, and maybe we don't," replied Dad.

"We don't?" asked Susan in surprise. "Then why do we go to church?"

"We should worship God there," said Dad, "but, well . . . take this morning, for instance. While Pastor Burns was preaching, I noticed some girls writing notes to each other. Do you think that's worship?" Susan blushed. She was one of the girls who had been writing notes. She slowly shook her head. "As for me," added Dad, "I have to confess that at one point, I was thinking about a problem at work instead of thinking about God. That wasn't worship, either."

"I'm sometimes guilty, too," admitted Todd. "In Sunday school last week, I whispered to Laurie during prayer time. After class, Mr. Smith talked to me about it. I was really embarrassed." Todd looked at his parents. "Did he tell you?"

Mom shook her head. "No . . . but I'm glad you realize that was wrong. And now I guess it's my turn to confess," she said. "There are numerous verses in the Psalms that say we are to 'sing unto the Lord'-or to sing 'praise to God' and 'make a joyful noise' to Him. To do that, we need to think about the words we're using. Otherwise we're not singing to Him at all. Well, while singing familiar songs, I sometimes catch myself thinking about something else."

"We all could improve our worship, couldn't we?" asked Dad. "Let's make up our minds that each time we go to church, we'll really worship God in every part of the service. If we don't, I can't see that we're much better than people who think their ceremonies and rituals are worship. In fact, we're worse, because we know better."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
What's going on in your mind when you attend church services? Do you think about the message of the songs you sing? When someone prays, do you reverently pray along? Do you try to understand the sermon? Or do you allow your thoughts to wander? Check up on yourself next time you attend church. Worship God by centering your thoughts on Him and His Word.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Those who worship Him (God) must worship in spirit and truth. John 4:24

[Soldier4Christ]

 The Relay Race

Aaron stood in place on the race track, alert and ready to spring into action for the final lap of the relay race. It's going to be up to me, he thought as the runners approached him. Those guys are neck and neck now! When the baton was passed to Aaron, he sprinted along the track and was soon at full speed. Pushing himself to his limit, Aaron streaked ahead of his opponent. They were a full yard apart by the end of his run, and a great cheer went up as he crossed the finish line. "You did it, Aaron! You did it!" his teammates called out.

 Aaron was so excited! "That team we were running against-the Panthers-haven't been beaten for four years!" he told his grandfather on the way home.

Grandpa grinned and nodded. "But you beat them today!" he exclaimed.

A few months later, Aaron and his mother arrived home after attending his grandfather's funeral. "I'm sure going to miss Grandpa," said Aaron, tears filling his eyes. "He was the best grandfather a guy could have. I guess he was extra special to me because Dad died before I can remember."

"I know," said Mom. "Grandpa was a great example for you. He witnessed for Jesus wherever he went, and he always gave a lot of his time and money to help others."

Aaron nodded. "A lot of people will miss him," he said with a sigh. He absentmindedly picked up a picture of his relay team with the trophy they had won. "I'm glad Grandpa was here when our team won that trophy this year," added Aaron.

"Yes, he enjoyed watching you race," replied Mom thoughtfully. "Did you know that, in the Bible, living the Christian life is compared to running a race? In a way, it's like the relay races you've been running. Christians run in their appointed time and place in life-some running well, and some not so well. When they finish their race, others take over and carry on."

"Well, Grandpa was one of the best runners ever!" declared Aaron.

Mom smiled. "Yes," she agreed. "In all he did and said, he carried the Word of God like a baton as he ran. I know he wanted to pass that baton on to you. Take it and run the very best you can-with God's help, living for His glory. Will you do that?" Soberly, Aaron nodded.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you know that you're a runner in life's race? The "heroes of the faith" referred to in Hebrews 11-and many other faithful Christians throughout the ages-have run ahead of you. Now, in a sense, a "baton"-the Word of God-has been passed on to the Christians still here on earth. If you know Jesus, that includes you. What kind of race are you running? Are you doing the things God teaches in His Word? Are you being a good example for younger kids? Be a good "runner" in life's race.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Holding fast the word of life, so that I may rejoice in the day of Christ that I have not run in vain. Philippians 2:16

[Soldier4Christ]

 Always Watching

Ruthe sat on her bed and looked at her mother. "I wish I could just stay home and hide in my room," she said. "I'm still scared." There had been some violence at her school a few days before, and the children were going back for the first time. Ruthe slowly got up and went to the window. Looking out, she noticed a little dove all alone on the grass. It rested peacefully until two large pigeons landed nearby. The young dove began cooing loudly in alarm. Ruthe frowned. "If only that little dove had stayed in its nest, it would be safe," she said to her mom, who was standing behind her. But before Mom could answer, the mother dove appeared and the curious pigeons flew away. "Wow! I'm glad the little dove wasn't left alone for long in this scary world," said Ruthe.

Mom gently turned Ruthe around. "Honey, that little dove was never really left alone," she said. "Its mother was always watching."

Ruthe sighed. "Well, I wish you or Dad could go wherever I go and watch and protect me all the time," she said.

"I'd like that myself, but we can't do that," said Mom. "Someone else can-and does-watch over you all of the time. You're God's child, and He is constantly caring for you. He loves you and He'll protect you-and He'll do a much better job of it than Dad and I could do!"

"But we can't be sure He'll keep us safe, can we?" asked Ruthe. "I mean . . . sometimes Christians get hurt, too."

"That's true," acknowledged Mom, "but you can trust God to allow only what is good for you. Remember that you're always in His sight. When you're in school, He sees you. When you play outside, He is with you there. Even when you sleep, God is watching over you, and nothing can happen that He does not permit. As our pastor sometimes says, everything that happens is 'Father-filtered.'"

Ruthe thought about what her mother was saying. "So since God is my Father and He's protecting me, I don't need to be afraid anymore, even though the world is such a scary place," she said.

Mom nodded. "God is watching over you at every moment," she said. "Trust Him, honey. He'll take care of you."


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Do you live in fear because of the terrible things that happen in the world? Are you afraid to leave your house? If you're a child of God, you don't need to live in fear and dread. You're never out of God's sight, and He'll never be unfaithful. Nothing that happens ever takes Him by surprise. Trust Him, and go about each day with peace in your heart, knowing He's watching over you.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. Psalm 34:15

[Soldier4Christ]

 For Grammy and God

"Are you ready to go, honey?" Katie frowned. They were going to visit her mother's grandma, who had Alzheimer's disease.

"I'm not sure why we visit every week," murmured Katie as they started toward the door. "Last week she didn't even remember my name."

"No, but Grammy always enjoys seeing you," said Mom. Katie doubted that. Visits to Grammy always seemed awkward and sad.

A cry came from the baby's room upstairs. "Sounds like Eddie needs a bottle," said Katie's dad, putting his paper down. "I'll get it! You have a good visit."

"Okay," said Mom, and she and Katie went on out to the car. Mom glanced at Katie. "I was just thinking that maybe you shouldn't feed Eddie anymore," said Mom. Katie quickly turned and looked at her mother in surprise. "In fact, maybe you should stop talking to him, too, or playing with him," Mom added.

"But you said I was doing a good job with him!" objected Katie.

"I know, but a year from now, Eddie probably won't remember that you fed him or took care of him at all," replied Mom. "In fact, he probably doesn't realize it even now. It's hard to tell if he really recognizes you yet, honey, so maybe you should just stay away from him-at least until he's older and can appreciate you."

Katie just stared at her mother in disbelief. "I can't believe you mean that," said Katie.

Mom smiled. "Actually, I don't," she replied, "but . . . honey, isn't that what you're doing with Grammy? You say there's no reason to visit her anymore because she sometimes hardly knows you."

Katie's eyes began to well up with tears. "But that's different, isn't it?" she asked. "I mean . . . Eddie will get to know me more and more, but by tomorrow, Grammy won't even remember we came. That's why I don't see the point in visiting her all the time."

"The point is that she'll know somebody cares today," said Mom gently. "It will help her today." Mom smiled. "She may not remember, but I can tell you who will-God will. According to His Word, the things we do for others, we do for God as well. So do this for both Grammy and God, okay?"

Katie nodded slowly. "Okay," she agreed.


HOW ABOUT YOU?
Are you willing to help people who will probably forget all the good things you do? God won't forget. He's pleased when you do your best whether or not anyone else remembers. Don't hesitate to be helpful or kind even if you think it won't make a difference. Be willing to help in whatever way you can-not to win the praise of other people, but to honor God and serve Him.


TODAY'S KEY VERSE:
Inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren, you did it to Me. Matthew 25:40