Episodes
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Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:6
"There must be a thousand fireflies out tonight!" Juan exclaimed.
Dad had turned off the yard light. The blinking green and orange light from the insects became easier to see. Juan unscrewed the lid from a clean plastic peanut butter container that his dad had poked with a screwdriver to make air holes.
He ran to the center of the yard and stood still. Twinkling fireflies fluttered around him. He scooped the container through the air and covered the open end with the lid. Lifting it eye level, he watched for a minute then saw a small blink of green inside the container. Juan smiled and repeated the process, sometimes chasing after the flying bugs.
"It's time to come in," Dad called from the door.
Juan hurried over to him and held out the container. "I caught four green and three orange." The bugs' lights flickered through the clear plastic. "There is no better light than fireflies," Juan declared.
Dad switched on the yard light then opened the door and sat down on the cement step. Juan sat beside him carefully holding his container. "Fireflies are an amazing wonder of nature, but there is a better light than fireflies. Do you know what that is?" Dad asked.
Juan thought for a moment. "Jesus?"
"Right!" Dad said. "Sunlight is nice. So is electricity." Dad pointed up at the outside light fixture. "But Jesus is the true light of the world. Do you know why?"
"Because He saved us from our sins!" Juan said proudly.
"Exactly." Dad patted Juan on the back. "Because He saved us by dying for our sins and rising from the dead, we will live in His light now and forever. And we can shine His light to others by showing them His love and telling them about Him." Dad stood. "Let's go inside."
Juan unscrewed the container lid. He gently shook the plastic until the fireflies flew out and cut a blinking path in the darkness. Juan joined his dad by the door. "I'm glad God made fireflies. They are the second-best light in the world. I'm happier God sent Jesus to be the best light in the world."
–Rose Ross Zediker
How About You?
Are you a light in the darkness? Do you complain or give thanks? Are you mean or kind? Do you argue or make peace? Sin brings darkness to the world, but if you know Jesus, He has freed you from sin and given you His light. When you show others His love through qualities like thankfulness, kindness, and peace, others will see His light shine through you in your words and actions. You can bring light to the world and point others to Jesus!
Today's Key Verse:
While I [Jesus] am in the world, I am the light of the world. (NIV) (John 9:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Shine the light of Jesus -
Bible Reading: Hebrews 13:5-8
When Jake's parents got divorced, Mason saw his friend cry for the first time. Jake was frustrated and confused and didn't know how he was going to make it through things, and Mason didn't know how to help him. The more time he spent with Jake, the more worried Mason got about his own parents and what might happen to them.
"Are you and Dad going to get divorced?" Mason asked his mom one evening as she was making supper.
Mom's brows lowered. "No, honey."
"But how do you know that?" Mason asked. "What if you get in a big fight like Jake's parents?"
Mom stopped chopping vegetables and put an arm around him. "Life feels uncertain at times, doesn't it? Especially when you see someone you care about going through hard things."
She walked him to the table and sat down beside him. "Your dad and I are not getting divorced," she said firmly. "I know it's hard to see Jake go through his parents' divorce, but you can be there for him. He has a great friend in you, and he has an even better friend in Jesus. His parents are still going to be there for him too. Even if they're not both around all the time, they still love him."
Mason nodded. "That's what I tried to tell him. I'm trying to help him, but I just got scared thinking about you and Dad."
"I'm sorry." Mom hugged him. "Life can be really confusing and scary sometimes. But one thing that remains the same through it all is God. He never changes, even when things change in your family or around you. Jesus promises never to leave those who trust in Him. Even when everything seems to be falling apart, He is with us, giving us strength, peace, and comfort. He is the same today as He was yesterday, and He'll be the same when you wake tomorrow too."
"I'll tell that to Jake. I think it might make him feel better too." Mason got up with a new feeling of peace inside. It was great to know that no matter what else changed in life, God never would. Even if he faced sad or scary things, Jesus would be with him. And Jesus would be with Jake too.
–Bethany Acker
How About You?
Have you had to face a big change or difficult event in your life? Or perhaps a friend or family member is going through something tough and it's making you feel afraid. When scary or difficult things take place in life, remember that God is always the same. No matter what happens, His love for you won't change, and He won't ever leave you. Trust Him to be with you, and remind other Christians that He's with them too.
Today's Key Verse:
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. (NIV) (Hebrews 13:8)
Today's Key Thought:
God doesn't change -
Missing episodes?
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Bible Reading: John 4:34-36
"We had a missionary speaker visit our class today," Charlotte told her mother after church one Sunday. "I think missionaries have such exciting lives--traveling far away to tell people about Jesus who have never heard about Him before. That's so cool! Maybe I'll be a missionary someday."
Later that afternoon, Mom got a text from the children's director at church. "Charlotte," Mom said, "Mrs. Fisher is wondering if you could help with vacation Bible school at church this week."
Charlotte frowned. "Do I have to? I don't think I'd be much help--I wouldn't know what to say to those kids."
Mom was quiet for a moment before she responded. "Charlotte, do you remember what the optometrist said when you had your eye examination a week ago?"
"Sure," said Charlotte, wondering why Mom was asking about that. "He said I have 20/20 vision, which means I have perfect eyesight. At twenty feet I can see exactly what my eyes are supposed to see from that distance."
"Right," said Mom. "I'm glad you have 20/20 vision in your eyes, but when it comes to your missionary vision, it seems you're a little farsighted. A person whose eyes are farsighted can see things in the distance, but they can't see objects up close very well." Mom pulled out a chair from the table and sat down. "You're excited about the idea of someday going far away to tell people about Jesus, but you don't seem very interested in reaching out to people in your own neighborhood right now. But that's not how God sees things. He sees and loves people everywhere in the world, including the people right here. Through the Holy Spirit, He gives us the ability to share His love with those who need to hear about Jesus right now. He may lead you to another country to be a missionary someday, but today He has you right where He wants you. With His help, you can start sharing the good news of Jesus with people here and now."
Charlotte was startled. "I guess you're right." She thought it over, then nodded. "I'll help Mrs. Fisher with vacation Bible school."
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Do you often think about what God may lead you to do in the future? Are you eager to help others and share God's love with them in an exciting way someday? That's great, but you don't have to wait to share God's love and point people to Jesus--you can do that where you are right now! Ask God to open your spiritual eyes to see those who need the love of Jesus here and now. Then trust Him to use you right where you are.
Today's Key Verse:
Lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest! (NKJV) (John 4:35)
Today's Key Thought:
Share God's love here and now -
Bible Reading: Psalm 27:1; Matthew 28:18-20; 2 Corinthians 12:9
When Millie got home from her first day of vacation Bible school, she found Dad watering the garden out back.
"Hi," Dad said. "How was VBS?" He put down the hose and poured Millie a glass of lemonade on the patio.
"A missionary couple spoke to us about their work in another country," said Millie. "They told us that church services are held in secret in people's homes. Christians have to be careful how and where they tell people about Jesus because they could get in trouble for teaching God's Word in public."
Millie stopped to catch her breath and sip the icy lemonade. "They also showed us pictures of where they live and people they know. And they said they're eager to go back. They love what they do."
"You sound pretty excited about it," said Dad.
Millie hesitated. "It was interesting to hear what it's like to work in a foreign country and not be afraid to tell others about Jesus. But what if God calls me to be a missionary? It sounds like hard work, and sometimes it's even dangerous. I don't know if I could ever do it."
Dad was quiet for a moment, then he said, "Run inside and get your softball and mitt."
Millie was puzzled but did as Dad asked. Dad took the mitt and propped it against the side of the house. Then he tossed the ball into the mitt. When the ball rolled out onto the patio, Dad sighed and shook his head. "This mitt is no good."
Millie laughed. "The mitt can't catch a ball by itself, Dad! My hand has to be inside it."
Dad grinned and nodded. "You can't be a missionary by yourself either--you need the Holy Spirit to help you. Just like you give the mitt power and direction when your hand is inside it, He's the one who makes you able to share the love of Jesus with others. Jesus has given all Christians the task of telling others about Him, not just those He calls to be missionaries in other countries, and it can be scary no matter where you are. But whether He leads you to be a missionary far away or just here at home, you can trust Him to give you the power you need to share Jesus wherever you are."
–Ruth Andrews
How About You?
What happens if you don't put batteries in a remote or turn on a lamp without plugging in the cord? Without a power source, those things won't work. God is your power source for doing what He calls you to do--He won't ask you to do something and then leave you on your own. He calls all Christians to tell others about Jesus, and you can count on His power and strength to help you do that no matter where you are.
Today's Key Verse:
You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere. (NLT) (Acts 1:8)
Today's Key Thought:
God gives you power to do His will -
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:14-16; Philippians 2:14-15
"Mom's calling," Selah said as she and her sister played with neighbor kids in the common area of their apartment complex.
"It must be time for dinner already," said Alice. The girls told their friends goodbye and hurried to their apartment.
"Guess what!" said Mom as they talked about their day. "I got a job offer."
Dad grinned. "Let me guess--someone asked you to babysit their kids."
Mom laughed. "You're right. Melissa, in apartment three, asked if I'd like to watch Anya and Jaxton when she goes back to work on Mondays and Fridays."
Selah looked surprised. "Dad, how did you know that was what someone wanted Mom to do?"
"Well, it's not the first time it's happened," said Dad. "The Petersons wanted Mom to take care of their son one weekend when they had to be away, remember? And a few weeks ago, the librarian at your school asked Mom to babysit for a couple of days."
Alice looked puzzled. "That's so weird. It's not like Mom put flyers around town saying she'd babysit. Why do people keep asking her?"
"Well," said Mom, "they know I'm a stay-at-home mom, so maybe they figure I'd like to earn a little money. And I think another reason they ask me is because of you guys."
"Us?" said Selah. "I don't get it."
Mom smiled. "I think they look at you and say to themselves, 'Those are nice kids! I could trust my children to be in that home. I'll see if their mother would like to work for me.'"
Alice grinned. "We're just such angels," she joked.
Dad laughed. "Not quite. I've seen your halos slip off and hit the floor quite a few times. You're not angels, but you are lights. The Bible says Christians are supposed to be lights in a dark world, and I've seen both of you shine the light of Jesus to others in how you treat them. Because we know Jesus, we are God's children and have His love in our hearts. When we let His love shine through our words and actions, people will notice that we're different and hopefully be pointed to Him."
"So thanks, girls, for being lights to our neighbors," said Mom. "Let's pray that our lives will make them want to know Jesus!"
-Lore Wolif
How About You?
Do your actions cause people to notice that you're different--different from the world in general? You may not be an angel, but if you've trusted Jesus as your Savior, you have the light of His love in your life and can point others to Him through your words, your actions, and your attitude. What can you do to be a light in your school and neighborhood?
Today's Key Verse:
Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven. (NIV) (Matthew 5:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Be a light for Jesus -
Bible Reading: Romans 8:26-27
Kyleigh walked out into the garage. "I want to wear my new blue shirt, Mom. Did you wash it?"
Mom, who was stripping paint off a desk, looked up and nodded. "Yes, I washed it. It's on a hanger in the laundry room, but it needs ironing. It's pretty wrinkled."
"I can do that," said Kyleigh. "I'll call for help if I need it." She hurried off and got out the iron.
When the shirt was pressed, Kyleigh showed it to her mom. "Look! This shirt was a wrinkly mess before, but it's all nice and neat now!"
That night at dinner, Mom asked Kyleigh to say the blessing. "Thank you for this food and our home and..." Kyleigh paused. "And please be with Dad. Amen."
"Something on your mind?" asked Mom as Kyleigh glumly passed her the potatoes.
Kyleigh shrugged. "I just don't know how to pray for Dad. I wish he wasn't in jail, but I'm afraid if he got out he'd just keep doing the things that got him there in the first place."
Mom nodded. "I know what you mean." She pointed at Kyleigh's shirt. "That iron sure took care of all those wrinkles, didn't it?"
Kyleigh looked down at her shirt. "Um, yeah, but what does that have to do with Dad?"
"Well," said Mom, "the Holy Spirit does the same thing with our wrinkly prayers."
"Wrinkly prayers?" repeated Kyleigh. "What are those?"
"They're the prayers we're not sure how to pray," said Mom. "We don't know everything that's going on in someone's life or the best solution to a problem, but God does. When we pray about those things, we might be afraid of asking for the wrong things sometimes because we can't see the whole picture."
"Kind of like my messy, wrinkled shirt?" asked Kyleigh.
"Exactly," said Mom. "But when we pray about things that are unclear or confusing, the Holy Spirit irons out the wrinkles so that, before God's throne, they make perfect sense." Mom squeezed Kyleigh's hand. "Keep praying for Dad, Kyleigh. God knows exactly what you're trying to say, and you can trust Him to do what's best."
-Gayle J. Thorn
How About You?
Do you sometimes feel like you're not sure what to say when you pray? Are there people or situations you want to pray about, but you're not sure how to begin? God wants you to come to Him with anything and everything that concerns you. Tell Him the best way you can, and trust the Holy Spirit to smooth out the wrinkles.
Today's Key Verse:
We don't know how to pray as we should, but the Spirit himself speaks to God for us. (ERV) (Romans 8:26)
Today's Key Thought:
Pray freely to God -
Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 4:13-18
"Oh, she's so cute!" squealed Kelsey, looking at the baby her mother held. The baby wrapped her tiny fingers around Kelsey's thumb and stared at her face. "I wish she would smile at me," Kelsey said.
"Don't worry," Mom replied. "She's just getting to know us. Give her some time to get used to regular meals and a safe place to sleep, and she'll be smiling in no time!"
"Will we get to keep her?" Kelsey asked, still holding the little one's hand.
"We don't know the future," Mom replied gently. "We're her foster family for now because her home isn't safe. But there are people working with her parents to help them become safe for her. If that goes well, she will get to go home with her mom and dad."
Kelsey sighed. "I want her to be with her parents, but I want her to stay with us too. I can't decide."
"Well, honey, thankfully it isn't up to you to decide. We can trust that God already knows this little one's future, and He loves her even more than her parents do, and more than we do. Whether she stays with us or goes home with her parents, or even if she grows up in a different family altogether, we can pray that God would shine the light of His love into her life." Mom smiled at Kelsey. "My mother always used to say, 'I don't know what the future holds, but I know who holds the future.' God is a loving Father with strong hands. He holds all of us, not just this sweet little girl. He also knows your future, Kelsey. And since you know Jesus, He has wonderful things in store for you and for all those who have eternal life with Him."
Kelsey leaned in to give the baby a kiss, then pulled back quickly. "Mom, I think I know what the future holds."
"Oh really?" Mom's eyebrows went up.
"Yup. It's a new diaper. This baby stinks!" Kelsey laughed as she dramatically held her nose.
Mom started laughing too. "You're certainly right!"
The baby looked at their smiling faces, and the edges of her mouth lifted a little.
"She smiled, Mom! Her future is looking brighter already."
Mom nodded as she carried the baby to the changing table. "It certainly is with a big foster sister like you!"
-Karen McMillan
How About You?
Do you worry about the future? Are there difficult situations in your family or some big concerns ahead for you? You can trust that God already knows about them--our difficulties never catch Him off guard. He holds the future in His hands, and He has wonderful plans in place for those who trust in Jesus, even though we still face difficulties in our lives. Trust Him to be with you through life's problems, knowing you have a bright future with Him.
Today's Key Verse:
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (NIV) (Jeremiah 29:11)
Today's Key Thought:
God holds the future -
Bible Reading: 1 Peter 1:3-9
"Hurry, Dad!" urged Archer as he and his father sped down the freeway toward the baseball stadium. It was his first time going to a major league baseball game, and he didn't want to miss any part of it. "If we're late, we might not find a good place to sit!"
"Don't worry, Archer. They won't give our seats away. Our tickets are right here." Dad tapped his left jacket pocket. "Bought and paid for. Our places are reserved for us."
"Reserved--that means they're saved for us, right?"
"Right," said Dad as he turned into the stadium parking lot. "People make reservations all the time--for airplane tickets, hotel rooms, restaurants, and…" Dad patted his pocket again. "For seats at baseball games." He glanced at Archer. "You may not have known it, but when you trusted Jesus as your Savior at camp last month, He made a reservation for you then too."
"Really?" Archer looked at his father in surprise.
"Yes!" said Dad. "You now have a reservation in heaven, and there will always be a place there for you. Jesus paid for it Himself by dying on the cross for your sins and rising from the dead, and when He comes back one day, you'll have your own special place in the new, perfect world He creates."
They parked the car and hurried to the stadium. "Are you sure they saved our seats?" asked Archer as he looked at the sea of spectators. "If they didn't, we'll probably have to stand up the entire game!"
Dad smiled as he looked at the stubs of their tickets. He motioned toward a man who was helping people find their seats. "That gentleman will show us where to go," said Dad. "Come on."
Archer followed his dad through the noisy crowd, and soon, there they were--two empty seats. "All right!" said Archer. "Here they are, Dad! Just waiting for us!"
As they settled down into their seats, Dad turned to Archer. "These seats are great, but they're nothing compared to having reservations in heaven, are they? I'm glad there are places saved for both of us there." Archer smiled and nodded, then turned toward the field to watch the game.
–Jonnye R. Griffin
How About You?
Do you ever worry that you don't have a place reserved in heaven? If you've confessed that you're a sinner and trusted Jesus as your Savior, you've been given a place in His eternal kingdom that will never be taken away. If you haven't trusted Him as your Savior, don't wait. Trust in Jesus today, and you will have a place with Him for all eternity. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
[God has given us] a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance…reserved in heaven for you. (NKJV) (1 Peter 1:3-4)
Today's Key Thought:
Reserve your place in heaven -
Bible Reading: Psalm 105:1-8; Luke 12:22-31
Emma lay in bed, listening to her parents' voices on the other side of the wall.
"We can't afford a vacation this year, Lindsey." Dad's voice sounded sad.
Emma could barely hear her mother's worried voice. "How are we going to pay this bill, Jeff?" Emma huddled deeper under her blankets. She knew her parents didn't want her to worry, but her stomach hurt.
Everything was different. First Dad lost his job, then Mom worked longer hours. Dad searched for a new job every day, yet Emma had overheard her parents say they might need to move. "God, can't you give my dad his job back?" Emma prayed as she drifted to sleep.
Mom poked her head into Emma's room the next morning. "Time to get ready for church, sleepyhead."
"Why?" Emma asked. "If God can do the things we learn about in church, why doesn't He give Dad a job?"
"Get ready," Mom told her. "We'll talk some more after breakfast."
After Emma rinsed her cereal bowl, Mom led her outside. "Look at the bird feeder."
"Mom, we haven't filled it since Dad lost his job," Emma pointed out.
"Are the birds worried about the empty feeder?" Mom asked.
Emma looked around. She saw sparrows nibbling in the trees. Others rooted in the grass, and still more perched on their neighbor's feeder. "No," Emma answered.
"For years, God provided for our family through Dad's job," Mom explained. "God is still providing, but in different ways."
"Like how the birds that used to come to our feeder now go other places?" Emma asked.
"Yes," said Mom. "The Bible stories you learn in church remind us how God has helped many people through many hard times in many different ways. He helped us when we needed it most by sending Jesus to save us from sin, and we can trust Him to help us in every situation we face. Church is also where we can connect with other Christians and hear them thank God for what He's done to help them. Their words remind us that God is with us and cares for us even though our situation may be different from theirs."
"And thanking God at church for providing for us might help someone else," Emma said as she headed for the car.
–Heidi J. Schmidt
How About You?
When life changes, do you think about how God has cared for you in the past? Do you spend time with other Christians who can remind you of His love and promises? Have you thanked Him for how He is caring for you now? Remember that God can care for you and your family in many different ways. No matter what your situation is, God is always with you. His love never fails.
Today's Key Verse:
Oh, give thanks to the Lord! Call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples! (NKJV) (Psalm 105:1)
Today's Key Thought:
God provides in different ways -
Bible Reading: Galatians 5:13-14; 6:9-10
Fifty cents is all the money I have left, and that won't buy much of a gift for Mrs. Morgan, Ivy thought as she passed Mrs. Morgan's house. It was just the kind of day her neighbor liked--cool air and lots of bright sunshine. But Mrs. Morgan was sick and in the hospital. I hope she has a window in her hospital room, thought Ivy.
When Dad came home, Ivy asked if he had any idea what gift she could get Mrs. Morgan with only a little money. Dad thought about it. "I don't know. Do you want me to add some money to what you already have?"
"No--it wouldn't really be from me then," said Ivy. "I want to get something for her with my own money."
"Then how about an advance on your allowance?" suggested Dad.
Ivy hesitated. "I guess that would be okay. I thought about earning some more money, but Mrs. Morgan is the only one who ever hires me to help her." She looked at Dad. "Is there anything I could do for you to earn money?"
"Well, maybe," said Dad. "But Ivy, there are many ways of giving. Your gift to Mrs. Morgan doesn't have to be something you buy. The Bible tells us to bear one another's burdens. What do you think that means?"
Ivy thought for a moment. "I think it means we should help others when they're going through hard times."
"Right," said Dad. "Maybe your gift to Mrs. Morgan could be something to show her that you're sharing her troubles. That's the kind of gift God gave us when He sent us His Son. Jesus took our sins on Himself when He died on the cross, and He promises to be with us through every struggle we face, giving us strength and comfort. When we help others in their struggles, we give them the gift of ourselves, just like Jesus did."
Ivy thought about how Mrs. Morgan was a widow with no family living close by. I'll try to go see her a couple times a week, she thought. And I don't think anyone's watering her plants or bringing her mail in--I can do those things too! I'll do all I can to help Mrs. Morgan.
–Daryl B. Knauer
How About You?
Do you know someone who needs help? Maybe you have a friend who is sick or a neighbor who can't keep up with their yard work. Is there a way you could help that person bear their burden? Perhaps you could help them by raking leaves, running errands, or just stopping by to visit every once in a while. When you share other people's burdens, you lighten their load and show them Jesus's love.
Today's Key Verse:
Share each other's burdens, and in this way obey the law of Christ. (NLT) (Galatians 6:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Help others -
Bible Reading: Job 29:1-3; Psalm 119:105
"How did your driving test go?" Alex asked her older sister when Becky walked into the house with Dad.
Becky gave a sigh. "I failed!"
"What happened?" asked Alex.
"I nearly got into an accident. I was trying to change lanes and a car appeared from nowhere and I almost crashed into it!" exclaimed Becky. "The examiner said I had to be careful of blind spots."
"Blind spots? What are those?" asked Alex.
Dad answered, "Well, in driving, a blind spot is an area around your car, usually behind the driver's shoulder, that you can't see with mirrors. You must turn your head to check for cars before you change lanes."
"Yup, and I just looked at the rearview mirror and didn't see the car right next to me," said Becky. "I forgot to turn my head to look for cars."
"Hopefully with more practice you'll remember," said Dad. "But there's another kind of blind spot we can't see ourselves--we need someone else to point it out to us."
"Does that mean no one should ever drive alone?" asked Alex.
Dad chuckled. "No, I'm not talking about a blind spot around a car. I'm talking about an area we can't see in our spiritual lives, like weaknesses or things we've done wrong that we're not aware of."
"What should we do then? Turn our head?" asked Alex.
Dad smiled. "We turn to God's Word. The Bible shows us our sin, and God also puts people in our lives who can help us see our shortcomings. Then, when we see what we've done wrong, we need to turn to Jesus for forgiveness and trust Him to guide us and lead us the right way."
Becky nodded thoughtfully. "You and Mom always correct me when I say something rude without realizing it."
"And you remind me not to whine and complain," said Alex.
"Well, we all have our blind spots," said Dad. "When people point out our mistakes, we become aware of them. Then we can ask Jesus to forgive us and help us change."
"We need God's light to guide us and help us see," commented Becky.
"Well said, Becky," said Dad with a smile.
–Kelly Choy
How About You?
Do you know your blind spots? You can't see them yourself--you need God to show them to you through the truth of His Word. He often uses people to help you see them too. When someone points out something you shouldn't have said or done, be thankful that you can now see that blind spot. Then turn to Jesus, who died for your sins and promises to forgive you. Trust Him to guide you as you live in His light.
Today's Key Verse:
[Jesus said,] "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life." (NIV) (John 8:12)
Today's Key Thought:
Let Jesus guide you -
Bible Reading: Luke 6:45; James 3:8-13
"Your turn to pray, Carlos," said Maria when their family sat down to eat.
"Okay." Carlos bowed his head. "Thank you, God, for this day and this food…"
When Carlos looked up a moment later, he groaned. "Oh no! Not broccoli again! I hate broccoli--and I don't like chicken fixed like that!" But Carlos knew he had to eat some, so he took a small portion from each dish. "This weather is way too hot," he complained between bites.
Dad frowned. "Carlos, do you think God heard your prayer tonight?"
Carlos looked at Dad in surprise. "Of course," he replied.
"And does He hear your grumbling too?" asked Dad.
Carlos looked down at his plate. "I guess so," he admitted.
Dad nodded. "I think so too. After dinner, we'll go out to the pond. I think it has something to teach you."
At the edge of the pond a short time later, Carlos watched as Dad took a bucket and hauled up some water. "Are we going to water the garden?" asked Carlos.
Dad shook his head and held out the bucket. "Here. Have a drink."
"Eww!" exclaimed Carlos. "Dad, you know the water in this pond is filthy!"
"Yes," said Dad, "but you won't be drinking the water in the pond. You'll be drinking the water in the bucket."
Carlos made a face. "If the water in the pond isn't good, the water in the bucket won't be good either. It's the same thing."
Dad nodded. "Right again. What's in the pond comes up in the bucket. That's like something Jesus taught. He said, 'What you say flows from what is in your heart.' Think about your prayer tonight, Carlos--and about what you said after you prayed. You thanked God and then griped about the very things you thanked Him for. I've noticed that attitude more often lately, but you have the ability to change it. Jesus has given you a new, clean heart because He loves you, Carlos--He loves you so much that He died for your sins. Because of that, your words should be rooted in gratitude for everything He's done for you."
Carlos looked at the stuff floating on the water in the bucket. "I'm sorry," he murmured. "I'll tell Jesus I'm sorry too."
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
What kind of attitude do you show others by what you say? The Bible says that our words flow from what's in our hearts. Do your words tell others that you have a thankful heart? Life isn't easy, but if you know Jesus, He is always with you and has given you a new heart so you can share His love and goodness with others. Instead of complaining, thank Him for His goodness to you and tell others about the good things He does for you each day.
Today's Key Verse:
Blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! (NLT) (James 3:10)
Today's Key Thought:
Have a thankful heart -
Bible Reading: Philippians 4:4, 11-13
It's not fair, Tayden thought as he pulled weeds out of the flower beds in front of his house. All my friends are at the water park today, but because I can't get the bandage on my foot wet, I'm stuck weeding. He thought of everything that had happened that week. First he cut his foot on a piece of glass and had to get stitches. Then his bike was stolen. And yesterday his best friend told him he couldn't come to Tayden's birthday party because his family would be on vacation then. What a horrible week, thought Tayden as he yanked another weed out of the ground.
Later that day Grandpa came over and looked at the garden Tayden had been weeding. "You did a good job," said Grandpa. He pointed to one of the flower beds. "Those bright pink blossoms sure are pretty."
Tayden looked at the flowers. "They must've just bloomed this afternoon. They weren't there when I weeded this morning."
Grandpa laughed. "Actually, I saw them when I was here a few days ago. They're so bright, I'm surprised you missed them."
"I guess I was too busy looking for weeds to notice them," said Tayden.
Grandpa nodded. "It's funny how our eyes miss things like that sometimes when we're not actively looking for them." He scratched his head in thought. "That can happen in life too. Sometimes we only see the weeds in our lives--the bad things that happen to us. We're so busy fretting and complaining that we don't notice the flowers--the good things God has put in our lives."
Wow! That sounds like me, thought Tayden as he recalled his thoughts earlier that day about what a bad week he'd had.
"Life is far from perfect," said Grandpa. "Yet we have so much to be thankful for. We have the hope of eternal life with Jesus, who gave His life to save us and be with us forever. He fills our lives with love, grace, joy, and other blessings every day, even when things are hard. If we only focus on the bad things, we might miss the beautiful blooms of God's blessings."
Tayden gave his grandfather a little smile. "Okay, Grandpa. I'll be on the lookout for the good things God has given me."
–Hannah Banura
How About You?
Do you often worry and complain about what's going on in your life? Does it seem like everything that happens to you is bad? Even though you may have some bad things to deal with, Jesus promises to help you. He died for your sins so you could experience the blessing of knowing Him as your Savior, and He fills your life with many daily blessings too. When you look for life's flowers, you'll soon see the many good things God has given you.
Today's Key Verse:
Be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, "I will never fail you. I will never abandon you." (NLT) (Hebrews 13:5)
Today's Key Thought:
Focus on good things -
Bible Reading: Galatians 6:7-10
Mia and her brother Caden were getting ready to plant a small vegetable garden. "I'll get the seeds," said Caden. "They're in my room."
But Caden soon returned empty-handed. "I put the seeds on my desk, but they're gone!" he said. "Let's go ask Mom if she's seen them." Mia and Caden found Mom busily washing dirt off their little sister's face and arms. "How did Libby get so dirty?" asked Caden.
"She was playing outside--digging in the flower beds," Mom answered.
"I wasn't playing," said Libby. "I was planting a garden. I found the seeds on Caden's desk, so I planted 'em for you."
"You what?" Mia was shocked. "You don't know how to plant a garden!"
"Do too!" said Libby. "I dug a big hole and put all the seeds in it."
"They weren't yours!" yelled Mia. "You stole them, you little thief!"
"That's enough, Mia," said Mom.
"Well, she did!" Mia exclaimed. "And everybody hates thieves--including me!" She turned and ran to her room.
Mom came in a little later. "Mia, do you remember what we read this morning?"
"Um…something from the Bible about reaping what we sow," mumbled Mia.
"Yes," said Mom. "It was wrong of Libby to use those seeds, but what you planted was worse."
"I didn't plant anything," said Mia. "Libby stole our seeds, remember?"
"You planted a seed of hate between you and your sister," said Mom. "Do you want that seed to grow and reap hatred back from Libby?"
Mia sighed. "I…I didn't mean what I said. I was just mad."
"I know," said Mom. "But when we sow mean, angry words, it's going to have an effect on our relationships. That's why we need to trust Jesus to help us love others the way He does and be patient with them. Because He loved us enough to save us by dying for our sins, we can sow seeds of love in our relationships with others."
Mia nodded. "I'll tell Libby I'm sorry. And maybe we could buy some more seeds so I can teach her how to plant them the right way."
"I think that's a great idea," said Mom. "And I think you're learning how to plant some other seeds the right way too--seeds of kindness."
–Tiare A. Street
How About You?
What kind of seeds do you sow? How do you react when people do things you don't like? The Bible says you reap what you sow, meaning that what you plant in your relationships with others is what will grow over time. You sow seeds by the way you treat others. Trust God to help you sow seeds of love that will produce a fruitful harvest of the love He has shown you.
Today's Key Verse:
Whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. (NKJV) (Galatians 6:7)
Today's Key Thought:
You reap what you sow -
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:19-21
Amelia looked down at her paint-splattered T-shirt and jeans and shook her head. "I'm trying to keep it on the wall."
Her dad grinned. "Me too, but look at my hair."
Amelia's eyes widened. "What if the blue never comes out?"
"Then I guess I'll have blue hair," Dad said.
"You two sound like you're having fun in here." Mom stepped into the doorway. "Mind if I join you?"
Amelia looked at her mom and giggled. "You have pink paint in your hair."
"I do?" Mom pulled her ponytail forward to see. "Oh, well. It will wash out."
Amelia dipped her roller in the paint pan. "I didn't know painting could be so much fun."
"I know," Mom said. "I think part of it is knowing we're doing this for someone else. I can't wait to see your cousins' faces when they see the freshly painted walls."
Dad nodded. "It feels good to do this for your aunt after all she's been through lately."
"It feels kind of like Christmas morning," Amelia said as she rolled more paint on the wall. "I thought I could only feel like that if I were getting something."
"Well, in a way, you are getting something," Dad said. "You know how the Bible tells us not to store treasures on earth but to store them in heaven? Today, helping out your aunt and cousins like this, you're storing up treasures in heaven."
"We store treasures in heaven by doing good things for others?" asked Amelia.
Dad nodded. "The Bible reminds us that earthly treasures don't last forever, but Jesus loved us so much that He died and rose again so we could be part of His eternal kingdom. When we do things for others to show them His love, God promises to use our loving deeds to build His kingdom. It's one way we store up treasures that last."
"I want to do stuff like this more often," Amelia said.
"I think that would be a great idea," said Mom. "We can find other ways to share God's love as a family."
Amelia smiled as she put one more stripe of paint on the wall, knowing her cousins were going to love their new room. She couldn't wait to do even more to serve others and store treasures in heaven.
–Bethany Acker
How About You?
Do you ever take the time to do good things for others? When you serve others to show them the love of Jesus, you are storing treasure in heaven where it will last forever! Trust God to help you store up heavenly treasures by keeping your focus on Jesus and His kingdom and by showing others His love.
Today's Key Verse:
Do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased. (NIV) (Hebrews 13:16)
Today's Key Thought:
Do good to others -
Bible Reading: John 8:31-36
"Grandpa, look at that one!" exclaimed Easton as a burst of colorful sparks filled the air. He watched in awe as the twirling sparks wove patterns of color in the sky as they made their way down to the earth. "It's the best one yet." The fireworks display was spectacular. Amid ohs and ahs from the crowd, a variety of reds, greens, yellows, blues, and blazing whites lit up the sky.
After the grand finale, Grandpa and Easton stood and stretched. "Do you know why we celebrate the Fourth of July?" asked Grandpa.
"Sure," replied Easton as they walked back to the car. "It's a special day that's set aside to celebrate our freedom and liberty."
Grandpa nodded. "We live in a country where we can choose what kind of work we want to do, travel where we want, say what we think, vote for those we want to be elected, and meet for public worship of God. Not everyone has those privileges."
"I know, Grandpa," said Easton. "I'm glad we can do those things here."
"I am too," said Grandpa. After a moment, he added, "But did you know, Easton, that the greatest freedom anyone can have is available to people in every country of the world?"
"It is?" asked Easton.
Grandpa nodded. "Unfortunately, many people don't know about that freedom," he said. "I'm talking about the freedom that Jesus Christ gives to everyone who trusts in Him. When we trust Him to forgive us for all the wrong things we've done and be our Savior, He makes us His children and frees us from the power and the punishment of sin. That's the most spectacular freedom anyone will ever have."
"Then we should celebrate that too," said Easton with a grin. "Can we have fireworks again tomorrow?"
Grandpa laughed. "That might not be a bad idea. We should certainly let the world know about this freedom and tell people that they can enjoy it too. All right. We'll have to think about a good way to celebrate our freedom in Christ, and then let's do it!"
–Linda E. Knight
How About You?
Do you celebrate the freedom from sin that Jesus gives? If you know Him as your Savior, you are truly free--you're no longer ruled by sin and you're free from its punishment. That's a reason to celebrate! Be as outspoken about your freedom in Christ as you are about the other freedoms you enjoy. Let others know they can have this freedom too!
Today's Key Verse:
If the Son [Jesus] sets you free, you are truly free. (NLT) (John 8:36)
Today's Key Thought:
Celebrate freedom in Christ -
Bible Reading: Romans 4:5-8; Ephesians 2:8-9
"Gotcha!" Eli shouted as he took another of Adrian's game pieces off the board. Adrian groaned, then gave Eli a playful shove.
"Adrian," said Eli's mom as she came into the room, "you're welcome to stay for dinner if you'd like. I'm making roast chicken and biscuits."
"Really? Thanks!" said Adrian. "I love your cooking!"
"Call your mom and make sure it's okay," said Eli's mom. "Tell her we'll drop you off on our way to church--or you can come to church with us."
"Okay," said Adrian. After Eli's mom left, Adrian turned to Eli. "You sure have to work hard to be Christians, don't you?"
"What do you mean?" asked Eli.
"You go to church all the time," replied Adrian. "And you can't do certain things."
"But that's not what makes us Christians," said Eli. "Trusting that Jesus died and rose again to save us is the only thing that counts." Adrian just shrugged.
When Eli's mom called them into the kitchen, Adrian's mouth watered at the smell of the chicken and biscuits. "Is there anything I can do?" he asked. "Do you need help setting the table?"
"Nope," said Eli's mom. "Everything's already done." She picked up a steaming dish. "All you need to do is eat!"
They sat down and Eli's mom said a prayer, then she passed the chicken to Adrian. "This looks delicious!" he said as he stuck his fork into a leg. He bit into it and closed his eyes. "Wow. I could never cook like this!"
Eli's mom smiled. "Adrian, I overheard you say that being a Christian seems like a lot of work, but it's Jesus who did all the work. We go to church and trust God to help us do what's right because Jesus has saved us and we love Him, not to become Christians. Salvation--being saved from sin and having eternal life--is a gift from God." She passed the bowl of biscuits to Adrian. "It's just like this meal I made. You don't need to work for it. Just take it."
A smile spread across Adrian's face. "I think I will." He bit into a biscuit and chewed it thoughtfully. "Can I come to church with you tonight? I want to hear more about this gift from God."
–Esther M. Bailey
How About You?
Have you taken the gift of salvation? There's nothing you can do to earn a gift. You can't become a Christian by doing good things or going to church. You only become a Christian by accepting the gift of eternal life that Jesus died to give you. Receive that gift today by trusting in Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)
Today's Key Verse:
The gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NKJV) (Romans 6:23)
Today's Key Thought:
Receive God's gift of eternal life -
Bible Reading: Psalm 119:97-104
Gabriella read Mom's grocery list as she walked down the familiar aisles at the store. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a box of chocolate cream-filled snack cakes sitting on the shelf, and her mouth watered. I wish Mom had put Choco-Cakes on this list, she thought.
As she walked back to the produce section, Gabriella thought about those Choco-Cakes and how good they would have tasted. She found her mother and placed the items from her list into the cart. "Why the frown?" asked Mom. "Are you upset about something?"
"No," answered Gabriella. "I was just wishing I could have picked up Choco-Cakes instead of all this stuff. I just love those things!" She rolled her eyes dramatically. "When I walk past them, I can almost hear them call out my name. 'Gabriella--I'm over here! Buy me! Eat me!' They're so good!" She and Mom both laughed.
"And what does the honey say when you walk by?" asked Mom as she took a jar of honey from a floor display. "It's sweet. Does it call your name too?"
Gabriella shrugged. "No. Honey's okay, but I don't ever crave it. Do you?"
"No, but I think a lot of people in the Bible did," Mom said thoughtfully. "Some verses I read in the book of Psalms this morning included one that mentions honey, where the author says God's words are sweeter than honey."
"I remember that verse," said Gabriella. "We had to learn it for church once. Maybe it would make more sense to me if I liked honey better."
"The writer must have liked honey a lot," said Mom. "But he's saying that he likes God's Word even better. But for you…" Mom paused. "Why not think of it this way? God wants you to be hungry for His Word--the Bible--because it tells us what Jesus did to save us and reminds us of who we are as God's children. Through it, God gives us wisdom and encouragement for our lives. God wants you to be more hungry for His Word than for anything else in this world, including Choco-Cakes!"
Gabriella grinned. "That I can understand," she said. "That would mean I like God's Word a whole lot!"
–Jaunita Urbach
How About You?
Are you hungry for God and His Word? Think of something you really like to eat and compare your desire for that to your desire to know what God says. God wants you to enjoy the good things He provides for you to eat, but He also wants to give you spiritual nourishment through His Word. Taste its sweetness every day by taking a few minutes to read some verses from it.
Today's Key Verse:
How sweet are Your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! (NKJV) (Psalm 119:103)
Today's Key Thought:
Be hungry for God's Word -
Bible Reading: Hebrews 11:17-29
Dimitri stood in place on the race track, alert and ready to spring into action for the final lap of the relay race. When his teammate passed him the baton, Dimitri sprinted down the track and was soon at full speed. Pushing himself to his limit, he zoomed ahead of his opponent. They were a full yard apart by the end of his run, and the crowd cheered as he crossed the finish line. "You did it, Dimitri! You did it!" his teammates called out.
"That team we were running against hasn't been beaten in four years!" he told Grandpa on the way home.
Grandpa grinned. "But you beat them today!"
A few months later, Dimitri and his mom arrived home after attending Grandpa's funeral. Grandpa had died of a heart attack, and Dimitri was still reeling from it. "I'm sure going to miss him," he said, tears filling his eyes. "He was the best grandpa in the world. I guess he was extra special to me because Dad died before I can remember."
"I know," said Mom. "Grandpa loved Jesus and cared so much for other people--especially you."
Dimitri nodded. "A lot of people will miss him." 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."
"Yes, he enjoyed watching you race," Mom said, looking over Dimitri's shoulder at the picture. "Did you know that the Bible compares living the Christian life 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. When they finish their race, others take over and carry on."
"Well, then Grandpa was one of the best runners ever!" said Dimitri.
Mom smiled and nodded in agreement. "In all he did and said, he carried the truth and love of Jesus 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, trusting God to help you share the love of Jesus and the truth of how He died and rose again to save us with others. Will you do that?" Dimitri wiped his eyes and nodded.
–Mary Rose Pearson
How About You?
Did you know that you're a runner in the race of life? The heroes of the faith referred to in Hebrews 11--and many other faithful Christians throughout the ages--have run ahead of you. Now it's your turn to run the race by trusting in Jesus and sharing His love and truth with others. Let Him help you be a good runner in life's race, knowing He's won you the prize of eternal life and will get you to the finish line.
Today's Key Verse:
Let us run with endurance the race that lies before us, keeping our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of our faith. (CSB) (Hebrews 12:1-2)
Today's Key Thought:
Run well in life's race -
Bible Reading: Isaiah 43:1-5; Hebrews 4:14-16
As Noel stood near the visitor center on Trail Ridge Road, she could see patches of snow far up on the mountainsides. The few trees in the area above the timberline had been dwarfed and twisted by the icy winds of winter. But summer had come, and tiny white and yellow flowers were waving their bright heads as if dancing to music.
"Look, Noel," said Dad when they walked over to see the flowers in a field next to the visitor center. He knelt among them and gently cupped one of the fragile, white blossoms in his hand. "See how tiny this flower is! But isn't it beautiful? There must be a million of these!"
"That one has a torn petal though," said Noel.
"I see that," answered Dad. "Yet here it is--adding its own little bit to the beauty of this place. Even though it's tiny and not perfect, it has a purpose in being here--just like all the other things in God's world." Noel wondered what her father was getting at, but she didn't ask.
As they drove back down the mountain a little later, Dad said, "I think the purpose of that little flower was to remind me of you, Noel. You've lived through some cold and blustery times in your life."
Noel knew what Dad meant. She had been sick many of her early childhood years. As a result, she had to wear hearing aids. She was also a grade behind other kids her age in school.
"I know you sometimes feel small and unimportant," continued Dad. "But I want you to remember that you have a purpose. You mean so much to us--and to God."
Noel thought about the tiny flower adding its small bit of beauty to the world. She gave her dad a little smile. "And you think I can add a little beauty to where God has put me?"
"I know you can," Dad assured her. "You already do. Jesus died for you so you could be God's child, and He understands everything you've been through. Because you know Him, you can show the beauty of His love to others."
Noel grinned. "Okay," she said. "If a tiny flower with a torn petal can add beauty to the world, I can too! And with God helping me, I will!"
–Trudy VanderVeen
How About You?
Do you compare yourself with others and feel like you don't measure up? Do you have some disability or scar that makes you feel self-conscious? God loves you just as you are, and He has a purpose for your life. Jesus died and rose again so you could be part of God's family and live with Him forever. You are very precious and valuable--to other people and especially to God.
Today's Key Verse:
I [God] have called you by your name; you are mine…you are precious in my sight and honored, and I love you. (CSB) (Isaiah 43:1, 4)
Today's Key Thought:
You are valuable - Show more
