1. family and parenting
2. children

How to get the most out of your
KEYS FOR KIDS
1. If you miss a day, don’t panic! Try to keep up with each
insert current
day’s reading—but if you miss one, you can do two pages
cover picture
the next day! (If miss quite a few, you can always pick up
in black and
on the current date and keep going.)
white
2. Be sure to read the Bible verses listed under the title.
If you read them both before and after you read the Keys
story, you'll get more out of it.
3. Now you’re ready for the story! See if you can tell how
the story helps you understand the verses you just read.
4. Really think about the questions that follow each story. If you can, talk about them
with your parents or your Sunday school teacher or a friend.
5. Read the Key Verse. Then read it again a few times! Try to repeat it with your eyes
closed (no peeking). Later, try to repeat it during your prayer time, and ask God to
help you keep His Word in your heart.
Make your time with God something you do every day!
Keys for Kids stories authored by: Sarah E. Avallone, Karen E. Cogan, Lisa D. Cowman, V.
Louise Cunningham, Brenda Decker, Dalan E. Decker, Harriett A. Durrell, Tracey L. Eagan,
Bethany R. Elms, Hope L. Funderburg, Jorlyn A. Grasser, Veronica R. Guerriero, Jan L.
Hansen, Jo Hebert, Mary G. Houlgate, Shannon M. Huber, Vera M. Hutchcroft, Ruth I. Jay,
Nance E. Keyes Sherry L. Kuyt, Jacqueline J. Leaycraft, VaDonna J. Leaf, Karen R. Locklear,
Agnes Maddy, Deborah S. Marett, Hazel Marett, Raelene E, Phillips, Sarah Reeves, Deana L.
Rogers, Lucinda J. Rollings, Catherine Runyon, Linda R. Stai, Sandy K. Vaughn, Geri Walcott,
Linda M. Weddle, Barbara J. Westberg, Deborah L. Whitsitt, Carolyn E. Yost
All Scripture quotations, unless otherwise indicated, are taken from the New King James Version.
Copyright, 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Keys for Kids is a publication of CBH Ministries. All rights reserved.
© 2013 CBH Ministries Box 1001, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-1001 Printed quarterly in the USA
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© 2013 CBH Ministries
Puzzles: Geri Walcott
Box 1001
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49501-1001
Printed quarterly in the USA
Editors: Hazel Marett
Geri Walcott
Kristen Gearhart
Table of Contents
Title
Key
APRIL
Like A Donkey . . . . . . . . . . . . .Be God’s servant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
A Copacetic Day . . . . . . . . . . . .Use good words . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Just a Sub . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Respect authority . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3
Firmly Staked . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Be firm in your faith . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
'Fess Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Confess your sins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
When Parents Say No . . . . . . . .Accept your parents’ decisions . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Do It Now . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Receive Jesus today . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
The Safety Rope . . . . . . . . . . . .God is always with you . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Taxes! Taxes! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pay taxes cheerfully . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
The Polishing Process . . . . . . . .Help others and learn from them . . . . . . . . .10
The Cat and the Hamster . . . . .God can be trusted . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Real Winners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Help those weaker than you . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Big or Small . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .God hates all sin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Aunt Sue's Gift . . . . . . . . . . . . .Know God through the Bible . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Cloudy Skies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Accept what God sends into your life . . . . . .15
A Look at the Heart . . . . . . . . .Trust Jesus and receive a clean heart . . . . . .16
The Wrong Shoes . . . . . . . . . . .Be thoughtful of others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Go Down Deep . . . . . . . . . . . . .Study the Bible . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Moving Mountains . . . . . . . . . .Faith and work go together . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
The Honor Roll . . . . . . . . . . . .Take a stand for what is right . . . . . . . . . . .20
Noah's Prayer . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Pray for your enemies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
No Giving Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Keep serving Jesus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
What Really Counts . . . . . . . . .Believe in Jesus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Toby’s Toe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Share joys and sorrows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Two Tents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Learn to be content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Feather Spreaders . . . . . . . . . . . .Use words acceptable to God . . . . . . . . . . . .26
The Dead Bee . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Overcome evil with good . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Instant Everything . . . . . . . . . . .Spiritual growth takes time . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
A Hurt Finger . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Follow God's directions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Pedal Boats and People . . . . . . .Work together . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
MAY
The Vital Signs . . . . . . . . . . . . .Give yourself spiritual checkups . . . . . . . . . . .1
First Aid Course . . . . . . . . . . . .Prepare—then talk about Jesus . . . . . . . . . . .2
On the Right Track . . . . . . . . . .Jesus is the only way to heaven . . . . . . . . . . . .3
The Most Dangerous Animal . .Stay away from sin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
They're People, Too . . . . . . . . . .Be understanding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
The Right Diet . . . . . . . . . . . . .Feed your mind good things . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Just a Baby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Accept advice from mature Christians . . . . . .7
The Paper Route . . . . . . . . . . . .Always do your best work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Guarded Words . . . . . . . . . . . . .Speak well of other people . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Invitation Needed . . . . . . . . . . .Invite Jesus into your life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Roots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grow strong roots in Christ . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
Not Forgotten . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thank God for mothers—and God’s care . . .12
A Memorial Rock . . . . . . . . . . .Remember God's goodness . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Too Much Salt . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Witness tactfully . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Just Like Dorcas . . . . . . . . . . . .Help others . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Handle with Care . . . . . . . . . . .Your soul is valuable . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
A Blank Piece of Paper . . . . . . .Trust God and obey Him . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Pepper and Soap . . . . . . . . . . . .Overcome sin with Scripture . . . . . . . . . . . .18
A Lot Like Me . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Encourage a missionary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Sin Bugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Do what you should . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Second Chance . . . . . . . . . . . . .Be forgiving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
While the Sun Shines . . . . . . . .Make good use of your time . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
A Sometimes Christian . . . . . . .Live for Christ at home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Knock Knock . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Ask God for help . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
Not Close Enough . . . . . . . . . .You must be born again . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
The Mirage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Money can’t buy happiness . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Search and Destroy . . . . . . . . . .Jesus is stronger than Satan . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
It’s A Fact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .God created everything . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
Pretty, but Sharp . . . . . . . . . . . .Follow the Golden Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Oil Needed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Attend church faithfully . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
The Wrong Give-Away . . . . . . .Always obey God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31
JUNE
Ordinary Days . . . . . . . . . . . . .Thank God for each day . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
The Mysterious Witness . . . . . .God’s Spirit convicts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Daily Instructions . . . . . . . . . . .Read and follow God’s directions . . . . . . . . . .3
Western Adventure . . . . . . . . . .Be ready to meet the Lord . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4
Western Adventure (Cont’d.) . . .God works for your good . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Taken for Granted . . . . . . . . . . .Express your thanks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Batter Up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .God's Word gives protection . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Feeling Itchy-Scratchy . . . . . . . .Show God’s soothing love . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
No More Fussing . . . . . . . . . . . .Pray, and trust God's answers . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Whiner or Winner . . . . . . . . . .Develop good attitudes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Blessed and a Blessing . . . . . . . .Visit the elderly and be blessed . . . . . . . . . . .11
Straight and Tall . . . . . . . . . . . .Be thankful for discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
The Family Parrot . . . . . . . . . . .Choose words carefully . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Deaf, yet Hearing . . . . . . . . . . .Hear with your Heart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
Finally Thirteen . . . . . . . . . . . . .Grow spiritually . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
Todd Helps Dad . . . . . . . . . . . .Don’t worry; trust God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
A Home in Heaven . . . . . . . . . .Heaven—a forever home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Vacation Lessons . . . . . . . . . . . .Be a genuine Christian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
Vacation Lessons (Cont’d.) . . . . .Confess sin and be clean . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Vacation Lessons (Cont’d.) . . . . .Put God first in your life . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Vacation Lessons (Cont’d.) . . . . .God gave Jesus to the world . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
A Good Fisherman . . . . . . . . . .Be ready to witness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
The Jigsaw Puzzle . . . . . . . . . . .Follow Jesus’ example . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Sodium Chloride of the Earth . .Be a useful Christian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24
The Potter and the Clay . . . . . .God is still working on you . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
A Good Friend . . . . . . . . . . . . .Help a friend . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Real Security . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Trust God for safety . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Worth the Effort . . . . . . . . . . . .Cast your cares on God . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
A People Zoo? . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Let Jesus set you free . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
Tumbling Cans . . . . . . . . . . . . .Don’t be ashamed of Jesus . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30
Like a Donkey
April
1
Read: Matthew 21:1-9
“Are you as smart as a donkey?” asked Mr. Jim, the leader of the children’s
church service.
The kids laughed, and several announced that they were much smarter than
any donkey. Mr. Jim smiled. “That’s great,” he continued. “Then I’m sure you can
serve Jesus. The donkey in today’s lesson did.” (See today’s Scripture reading.)
“I don’t get it!” exclaimed Trevor. “Jesus rode on the donkey’s back, didn’t
He? You mean we’re supposed to give people rides on our backs?” Trevor liked
to ask questions that might make the other kids laugh.
Mr. Jim laughed, too. “No,” he said, “but the donkey gives us a great picture
of a servant. First of all, he was where God wanted him to be—he was available.
We should ask ourselves, ‘Am I available to God? Am I in a place where He can
use me?’”
Trevor shrugged. “I am,” he said. “I’m here at church all the time—whether
I want to be or not.” Some of the kids laughed again, and Trevor felt pleased
with himself. “But I’m not good at singing or
speaking,” he added. “I don’t have any money to
give, either.”
“I’ve sat in front of you in church, Trevor,” said
Mr. Jim. “I happen to know you actually have a
very good singing voice.” He smiled as he added,
Key Verse
“Think about the donkey again. He had to be
Present
your bodies a living
untied. Maybe you need to let Jesus untie your
sacrifice,
holy,
acceptable to God.
fears—maybe you’re afraid to try to serve Him.”
Romans
12:1
Trevor frowned. He couldn’t think of any smart
reply, and Mr. Jim continued the lesson. “Also, the
donkey was willing to let Jesus control him,” said Mr. Jim, and he explained
that even though the donkey had never been ridden before, he did what Jesus
wanted him to do. “Have you truly let Jesus control you, or have you been
stubborn?” asked Mr. Jim. Trevor began to feel more uncomfortable.
“How about it, class?” asked Mr. Jim at the end of the lesson. “Will you ask
God to take control of your life and untie your fears? Will you be a servant just
like the little donkey was?”
“I’ll do my best,” Trevor said slowly, “but I’m still not so sure I can sing.” Then
he grinned. “Of course, if it makes people laugh, that might be good, too.”
Be God’s
servant
Are you willing to serve Jesus in any way you can? Or are you afraid to sing or play an
instrument in public because you think kids will laugh if you make a mistake? Maybe you really don’t
have the talents for those things, but are you available when help is needed for a class project? Are
you willing to give a testimony or share a Scripture verse? Take a lesson from the donkey. Be available
for whatever task, great or small, God has for you. Ask Him to remove your fear and control your life.
April
2
A Co-pa-ce-tic Day
Read: Ecclesiastes 12:9-12
“Hello, Austin,” said Grandpa Thompson. “Is everything copacetic with my
grandson today?”
“Co . . . pa . . . cetic? What does that mean, Grandpa?” asked Austin, but
even as he asked, he was sure his grandfather wouldn’t tell him. He’d probably
say to look it up in the dictionary.
Just like expected, Grandpa smiled and said, “Look it up. You know that’s
what dictionaries are for!”
So Austin got out a big dictionary and quickly looked up the word. “Copacetic,”
he murmured softly. “Here it is, and it means . . .” He paused and read the
definition to himself. “It means very satisfying,” he added, closing the book just as
his older brother walked in the door. Bruce is in high school and thinks he’s
pretty smart, thought Austin. I’ll try this word on him.
“Hi, Bruce,” said Austin. “Everything copacetic?”
Bruce looked at his brother. “What are you talking about?” he asked. “What
does that word mean anyway?”
Grandpa winked and Austin grinned. “Look it
up, Bruce,” he said. “That’s what dictionaries are
for. Right, Grandpa?”
While Bruce flipped through the dictionary,
Austin sat down on the couch next to his
Key Verse
grandfather. “You sure like using new words, don’t
Let no corrupt word proceed out
you, Grandpa?”
of your mouth, but what is good.
Grandpa put an arm around Austin. “Yes, I do,”
Ephesians 4:29
he agreed. “The way I look at it, the use of words
is a gift from God. He has given man the ability to
develop languages and to write words that express ideas. Some words do a better
job of that than others, so I like to look for the best ones to say something.”
Grandpa paused, then added, “Communication is a vital part of life. Man can
take that God-given ability and abuse it, or he can use it for good.”
“I never thought about that,” said Austin. “I guess that means we should be
careful to use good words, right?” He got up to go to his room. “See you later,
Grandpa,” he added, “and I hope you have a copacetic day!”
Use good words
Have you thought about the importance of words? They are used every day in books,
on radio and TV programs, on the internet, and in conversations with your family and friends.
Remember that words can be used to either honor or dishonor the Lord. Are the words that come from
your mouth pleasing to Him? They should be—so think before you speak. Thank God for the ability to
communicate through language, and make sure whatever you say is acceptable to Him.
Just a Sub
Read: Romans 13:1-5
April
3
Hannah walked into the house with a big grin on her face. “Mom,” she
called out, “we had the best time in school today!”
“What did you do that was so much fun?” asked Mom with a smile.
“Oh, we had a substitute teacher today. It was so funny!” Hannah laughed.
“Some of the kids switched seats, so all day long the sub was calling them the
wrong names. Pete and Joel told her our teacher always lets us out for recess
early. She believed them, so we got out five minutes before everyone else!”
Mom frowned. “How would your substitute know who the kids are or where
they were supposed to sit?” she asked.
Hannah shrugged. “I know our teacher left a seating chart with everybody’s
name on it,” she said.
“But if the kids used each other’s names, how would the sub know if they
were in the right seats or not?” asked Mom. “And how would she know the boys
were lying about being let out early for recess? No one corrected them, right?”
“Well, no. I . . . I guess she wouldn’t know,”
admitted Hannah.
“Why didn’t you tell her?” asked Mom. “Showing
her respect and obeying her is not only common
courtesy; it’s a command from God!”
Hannah’s eyes widened. “It is?” she asked in
Key Verse
surprise. “I know the Bible says to obey your
Let
every
soul be subject to
parents, but it doesn’t mention teachers, does it?”
the governing authorities.
“When you were learning your memory verse for
Romans 13:1
Bible club last week, I heard you recite it several
times,” Mom said. “It was Romans 13:1, right?
Who does it say you should be subject to? Who should you respect and obey?”
Hannah thought for a moment. “Ah-h-h. Governing authorities,” she finally
replied. (See today’s Key Verse.)
“Yes,” said Mom. “We’re to obey anyone who is in authority over us, aren’t we?”
“Oh! Well, she’s just a sub,” replied Hannah with a shrug. “It doesn’t matter.”
“Oh, yes, it does matter!” exclaimed Mom. “When she’s teaching your class,
you are under her authority. Like I said, God commands that you obey her.”
“I-I-I’m sorry,” stuttered Hannah. “I . . . I know what I’ll do! I think she’s
coming back tomorrow, so I’ll tell her who the kids are and what rules we have!”
Respect
authority
How do you treat substitute teachers in school or Sunday school? If you decide to
have a little fun when you have subs, make sure it’s fun for them as well as for you. If you or your
classmates give the substitute a bad day, it isn’t funny to God. He says you must obey and respect
those who have authority over you. That includes teachers, substitute teachers, employers, coaches,
and government authorities.
April
4
Firmly Staked
Read: Colossians 2:6-10
“We’ve got work to do before we go fishing,” said Dad as he and Robb
reached their camp site, “so let’s get the tent up.”
“All right! That will be fun!” exclaimed Robb. He eagerly helped his father
stretch out the tent and set it up. Then he pounded the stakes into the ground
on one side while Dad worked on the other side. Soon they were ready to get
out their poles and catch some fish.
Fishing was good, and they hardly noticed that it was getting cloudy. They
were surprised when a light rain began to fall. A strong wind came up, too, as
Robb and his dad headed back to the tent. “Oh, no!” exclaimed Robb when
they reached their campsite. “One side of our tent fell down. Hey . . . it’s my
side! What happened?”
Dad stooped over and picked up a stake that was lying on the ground. “I’m
afraid you didn’t pound these deep enough,” he said, “and the wind and rain
took the tent down. But come on . . . let’s get this back up.”
This time, putting up the tent was not so much
fun because they had to work in the rain. Robb
felt like it was his fault. “Sorry, Dad,” he apologized.
“Don’t give it another thought,” said Dad. “It’s
no more your fault than mine. I should have
checked before we left to make sure the tent was
Key Verse
firmly staked.”
Built up in Him and
When the rain stopped and they were finally
established in the faith,
able to cook their fish, Robb grinned at Dad. “We
as you have been taught.
studied some verses in Sunday school—something
Colossians 2:7
about being rooted in Christ and established in
our faith,” said Robb. “Our teacher said if we’re very familiar with the things
God teaches and put them into practice, our spiritual stakes will go deep. Then
we won’t be easily fooled by false teachers or be quick to wander away from
God. I guess we wouldn’t collapse like this tent did.”
Robb’s father smiled broadly. “Well,” he said, “you may not be too great at
pounding in a tent stake, but if you continue listening and learning as well as
you did last Sunday, I don’t think I’ll have to worry about your spiritual stakes.”
Be firm
in your faith
Are you firmly convinced that what God says is true? It’s important to pound your
spiritual stakes deep by listening well in church and Sunday school, studying Bible lessons, and
obeying what God says. Learn to check what you hear with what it says in the Bible, and become
firmly staked spiritually— “established in the faith.”
’Fess Up
Read: Psalms 32:1-7
April
5
David gasped and choked. He turned so Alex couldn’t see his face. David
knew he shouldn’t be smoking, but Alex had dared him to try it, and he didn’t
want Alex to laugh at him.
“How’d ya like it?” Alex spoke to David’s back.
“Great,” David lied, glancing at his watch. “Hey—I gotta run or I’m gonna
be in trouble. See you tomorrow.” Without waiting for a reply, he walked
quickly out of the alley and into the sunlight. Guilt tugged at his heart as he
hurried toward home.
When David entered the house, he heard his little sister’s voice. “But I didn’t
do it, Mommy! I didn’t!”
“Tiffany,” said Mom, “I know you did.”
As David looked into his parents’ room, the smell of perfume was almost
strong enough to choke him. The carpet was sprinkled with powder, and tiny
footprints led from the vanity to the door. “You’d better ’fess up, little sister,”
teased David. “You’re caught for sure this time.”
“I-I-I’m sorry. I just wanted to s-s-smell pretty
for D-D-Daddy,” sobbed Tiffany.
Mom tried to hide her smile. “The whole house
is going to smell pretty for Daddy,” she said. “Go
sit in your room while I clean up this mess.” She
Key Verse
turned toward David. “And what have you been
Be
sure your sin
up to?” she asked.
will
find you out.
“N-n-nothing,” stuttered David.
Numbers
32:23
Mom had been teasing, but David’s guilty face
told her he’d done something he shouldn’t have.
She repeated his words. “Better ’fess up,” she said. “You know the Bible warns
that when we sin we’ll be caught sooner or later. God always knows about it.”
“Well, I just . . . I . . . I . . .” David looked at the floor. “Alex offered me a
cigarette, and I took a few puffs,” he confessed. “It was terrible, and I think I’ve
learned my lesson.” He took a deep breath and added, “I’m glad I confessed.”
“So am I,” replied Mom. “Be sure to talk to God about this, too, and ask
Him for help to resist temptation.” As David nodded, Mom continued, “I
hope this is a lesson you’ll never forget.”
“Me, too,” agreed David. “It was bad in more ways than one.”
Confess your sins
Is something bothering your conscience? Do you need to ‘fess up? Never think you can
permanently get away with doing wrong. God already knows what happened. Talk to Him about it
right now—and consider whether you need to tell your parents or whoever else is involved. Confess
what you’ve done wrong and ask God to help you not repeat it. He wants to hear from you and restore
to you a clean conscience. It is a priceless possession.
April
6
When Parents Say No
Read: Ephesians 6:1-4
“Are your mom and dad going to let you go to Jenny’s all-night party?”
Madison’s friend Leslie asked as the girls walked home.
“No, and I’m not even sure why not,” said Madison. “I forgot about it, so when
Dad dropped me off this morning, I asked him if I could go. He just said they
didn’t want me to. I was late, and there wasn’t time to talk any more about it.”
“My parents said no at first, too,” replied Leslie, “but I told them that was
unfair and that they never trust me! I kept at ’em, and they gave in and said I
could go.” She grinned. “Why don’t you tell your mom and dad how unfair
they’re being? Maybe they’ll change their minds, too!”
Madison shook her head. “Don’t you think that when your parents tell you
no it’s because they believe that’s what’s best for you?” she asked. She paused,
then added, “I mean . . . I really trust my parents. I’m sure they want to make
the right decisions for me and just have to say no sometimes.”
Leslie frowned. “Oh, that’s what they always say,” she muttered, “but I don’t
believe it. I think it’s mean to boss kids around!”
When the girls turned to cross the street to Leslie’s
house, she saw her dog sitting in their driveway.
“Lady got out!” exclaimed Leslie. “I wonder if
somebody left the gate open.” The dog looked their
way, then jumped up and came running toward
Key Verse
them. “Stop, Lady! No!” Leslie called out. Lady
Children, obey your parents
stopped right away. “Good dog!” approved Leslie
in all things, for this is well
when she reached her pet. “How did you get out?”
pleasing to the Lord.
“You’re sure mean to Lady—keeping her penned
Colossians 3:20
up in the back yard most of the time!” said Madison.
“And like now . . . she just wanted to come across the street and meet you, but
you wouldn’t let her. That’s mean!”
“Mean?” asked Leslie in surprise. “I’m not mean. Keeping her in the back yard
keeps her safe. If I just let her run across the street, she might get hit by a car.”
“So saying no was really for her good?” asked Madison with a smile.
“Of course it . . .” Leslie stopped. “Okay . . . okay. I see your point,” she
said. “I had to say no to Lady, and parents sometimes have to say no, too.”
Accept your
parents’ decisions
How do you respond when your parents say no to something you want? Do you
get angry or upset? Remember that God has placed you under the care of adults—usually parents,
but sometimes grandparents or other guardians. He has given them the responsibility of making
many decisions for you until you’re older. And He has given you the responsibility of obeying them. So
even when you don’t understand the reasons for all they say and do, trust them and obey.
To whom did God give the responsibility of caring for you?
What is something you really wanted to do, but your parents or others
responsible for you said no?
What were their reasons for saying no? __
______________________________________
__________
When you can’t understand or don’t agree with the reasons for the decisions
parents make, how do you feel and what do you do?
_________
What does God say your responsibility to them is, whether you understand
their reasons or not?
______________________________________
Ask an adult: When you were my age, how did you feel when
you didn’t like what your parents decided? __ _____
__
When you have to disappoint me, should I know the reasons
for your decisions—and why or why not?
Our Key Verse addresses children, who are often told they should do things to please the Lord. But
it’s not always easy for boys and girls to know what they can do to please Him. Our verse tells one way
to do this—obey your parents, not in just the things you want to do anyway, but in everything. When
you’re unhappy with your parents’ decisions, repeat the Key Verse to yourself. Let it remind you to
always please God by obeying your parents or other guardians.
Respect, obey, and . . .
accept parents’ decisions
April
7
Do It Now
Read: 2 Corinthians 5:21; 6:1-2
Juan picked up something from the closet floor and waved it at his friend
Eric. “Remember the game piece we lost when we played Spider last time you
were here?” Juan asked.
Eric nodded and looked at the object. “Hey! You found it!” he exclaimed.
“Yep. It was right there,” replied Juan, pointing to the closet floor.
Eric looked where Juan indicated. “Wow!” he exclaimed. “It’s a wonder you
ever found it in there! What a mess! It’s way worse than my closet—and my
mom thinks it’s bad! I can help you pick up all this stuff.”
“Nah. I’ll do it later,” replied Juan.
Eric grinned. “You sure?” he asked. “I remember the mess we made in your
backyard a couple weeks ago. I offered to help you with that, too, but you
wanted to do something else and said you’d do it later. Only you didn’t.”
“I know,” said Juan. “My dad was so mad! I was grounded for a whole
week.” Juan frowned. “Sometimes you get me in trouble with my mom, too.
She thinks I should be more like you. You’re what
she calls a ‘cleanie.’ That’s a girl thing!”
“Hey! Watch what you say!” Eric pretended to
be annoyed. “I just don’t like to leave a mess like
that,” he added with a shrug. “I’d rather take care
of things right away instead of later.”
Key Verse
Juan jumped up. “I changed my mind,” he said.
Remember now your Creator in
“I’ll surprise Mom and clean this up—you can help
the days of your youth.
me.” So together the boys put games in place and
Ecclesiastes 12:1
sorted markers, shoes and even some dirty socks.
“There,” said Juan. “I took care of what I usually
put off. Now how about taking care of what you keep putting off?”
Eric looked puzzled. “I told you—I don’t put things off.”
“Yes, you do,” replied Juan promptly. “We’ve talked about Jesus before, and
you’ve even admitted you do wrong stuff and can’t earn your way to heaven. But
you never come right out and say you trust in Jesus to save you. Okay . . . you
like things to be taken care of right away, and accepting Him as your Savior is the
most important thing you need to take care of. So don’t put it off any longer.”
“Well, I . . . I . . .” Eric didn’t know what to say. “I guess you’re right,” he said
at last, “but you better go over it with me again, okay?” Gladly, Juan nodded.
Receive
Jesus today
Are you trusting Jesus as your Savior? Or have you been putting off that decision? Nothing
is more important. Maybe you’ll live a long time and have other opportunities to decide. On the other
hand, this could be the last time you’ll hear about Jesus. Won’t you trust Him as Savior today? (See the
ABCs of Salvation at the end of this book.)
The Safety Rope
Read: Psalm 139:7-12
April
8
Anna’s heart pounded as she stood looking down at her brother. He looked very
small from her perch among the tree tops. “You can do it!” he called up to her.
“Easy for you to say, Casey,” Anna retorted. “You’re not standing on a log thirty
feet in the air!” It was her first time on the high ropes course at her church
retreat, and she was supposed to walk across the log as if it were a balance beam.
Anna looked at her father down below. “Are you sure the rope will catch me
if I fall?” she asked.
“Absolutely,” Dad said.
Anna tugged one more time on the safety rope attached to the body harness
she wore. She tensed, getting ready to take that first step. You can do it, Anna
told herself. If you fall, the rope will catch you. Just walk out there. She wiped her
clammy hands on her jeans, took a deep breath, and inched out onto the log.
First one tiny step. Then another. And another. Soon she was all the way across.
“Great job!” Dad called. “Now I’ll lower you to the ground.”
“You’re sure the rope will hold me?” Anna asked.
“Yes. Trust me!” Dad called back. “Just lean out
a little, and you’ll feel it start to pick you up.”
Anna did as he directed and gasped with relief
when she felt her harness tighten around her waist.
She let her feet leave the platform then, and slowly
Key Verse
descended to the ground.
Do not be afraid . . .
“Was that fun?” Casey asked as Dad unclipped
the Lord your God is with you
Anna’s harness from the rope.
wherever you go.
“Yeah!” Anna said. “I was so scared up there,
Joshua 1:9
though. I knew the rope was attached to me, but I
couldn’t feel it. I felt a lot safer after I was off the log and the rope caught me.”
“You know,” Dad commented, “the rope wasn’t holding you only when you
felt it. It was holding you the entire time. You just didn’t test it.” He paused.
“And that makes me think of God,” he added.
Anna thought for a second. “You mean because sometimes when life is tough,
it feels like He’s not even there?” she asked. “But whether it feels like it or not,
God is with us all the time, taking care of us?” Smiling, Dad nodded.
“So will you go up and walk the log again?” Casey asked.
Anna lifted the safety rope and smiled. “Yeah,” she said. “I’ll do it again.”
God is always
with you
Are there times in your life when you don’t feel like God is with you? When
tough things happen or it seems like God isn’t answering your prayers, do you start to wonder if He
even cares? The truth is that God will never, ever leave you. He gave His word that He will always be
with you. So instead of relying on your feelings, rely on the truthful Word of God. And even if it doesn’t
feel like He’s there, rest assured that He is still taking care of you.
April
9
Taxes! Taxes!
Read: Matthew 9:9; 17:24-27; Romans 13:3-7
With her mother’s permission, Ginger stopped at a store after school and
used money she had left from her allowance to buy a few things she wanted.
She chose a pen, some sticky notes, and a puzzle book. When she went to pay
for the items, she was surprised at how much she owed. “Oh! That’s more than
I figured,” she said. “I didn’t think they added up to that much money.”
“Did you remember to add the sales tax?” asked the clerk.
“I forgot all about it!” exclaimed Ginger. “I’ll have to put something back.”
When she got home, Ginger showed her mother what she had bought, and
then they enjoyed a snack together. “Mom, why do we have to pay taxes?”
Ginger. asked.
“Taxes are used to pay for a lot of different things,” Mom replied. “For
example, they’re used to keep our roads repaired and to pay salaries for public
workers such as teachers, policemen, firemen, congressmen—and even the
President of the United States. People have paid taxes for a long time. In fact,
they paid taxes way back in Bible times.”
“They did?” Ginger was surprised.
Mom nodded. “Yes,” she said, “and during the
time Jesus lived on earth, the Jews didn’t like the tax
collectors because they often took more money than
they should have and kept some for themselves.”
Key Verse:
“Then I wouldn’t like them, either,” declared
Render . . . taxes to
Ginger. “Would you?”
“I don’t think so,” Mom replied, “but Jesus can
whom taxes are due.
Romans 13:7
change anyone, you know, and one of those tax
collectors became one of the twelve disciples.”
“Really?” Ginger asked. “Which one?”
“Matthew,” answered Mom.
“The same Matthew who wrote the book of Matthew?” asked Ginger.
Mom nodded. “As a tax collector, he had probably been a careful record keeper, ”
she said. “That may have helped him record many things Jesus taught. And did
you know that Jesus paid taxes?”
Ginger thought for a moment. “Oh, I remember!” she exclaimed. “He sent
Peter to find money in the mouth of a fish. It was to pay taxes for both of
them.” Ginger paused, then grinned. “Well, if Jesus paid taxes, I can, too!”
Pay taxes
cheerfully
Have you heard a lot of complaints about taxes? Have you complained about them
yourself when you had to pay more for something than you had thought you would? Sometimes taxes
seem unfair—or maybe a bit too high. Try to remember they’re needed for many useful things that
add to your comfort. And remember that God says you are to pay them.
The Polishing Process
Read: 2 Peter 1:5-9
April
10
Jeremy sighed as he perched on the arm of his dad’s chair. “I’m tired of
trying to be nice to Logan, Dad. He’s always bugging me,” grumbled Jeremy
just as Blake, his younger brother, dashed into the room. “Today in Sunday
school, Logan kept poking my arm. Why can’t he grow up? He . . .”
“Dad! Can we go and look at my rocks now?” asked Blake, interrupting his
brother. “It’s been a whole week since I put them in my rock tumbler!”
“It takes way longer than that to polish stones,” Jeremy reminded Blake. “If you
take them out now, they won’t look much different from when you put them in.”
“That’s right,” agreed Dad. “We’ll change the grinding agent pretty soon, but
the rocks have to tumble for several weeks before they’re smooth and shiny.”
“Okay,” said Blake. He sighed as he left the room. “I’ll leave ’em alone.”
After a moment, Dad murmured, “I guess Logan isn’t polished yet.”
Jeremy cocked his head. “What do you mean by that?” he asked.
“I believe you said he accepted the Lord at Bible camp just last summer, right?”
Dad asked, and Jeremy nodded. “So he’s a new
Christian, and it takes a lot of polishing to make a
person be like Jesus,” explained Dad. “We’re all in
different stages of spiritual growth. Those of us who
have learned some lessons about how to behave need
to have patience—especially with new Christians.”
Key Verse
“You mean I need to be more patient with
As iron sharpens iron,
Logan?” Jeremy asked. He sighed as he thought
so a man sharpens the
about it. “When I’m annoyed with him, I guess it
countenance of his friend.
shows that I’m not polished enough myself,” he
Proverbs 27:17
admitted quietly.
Dad nodded. “The Bible talks about iron sharpening iron—and I think that’s
a little like a grinding agent polishing rocks,” he said. “Maybe God wants Logan’s
shortcomings—and yours—to work like grinding agents to polish each other.”
“Okay, but if he pokes me is it okay to just ask him to stop?” wondered Jeremy.
“Sure,” said Dad. “Ask him politely, and then be patient as you get to know
him better and as he learns more about the Lord.”
“I will,” Jeremy promised. “Maybe I can help him with some things in our
Bible lessons, and I’ll try to remember that I’m learning patience from him.
Like you said, we can help each other.”
Help others and
learn from them
How patient are you when someone does something you don’t like? Remember
the polishing process isn’t finished—for you or anyone else. God uses various experiences to polish
His children and bring about the results described in today’s Scripture reading. One translation of the
Key Verse says, “People learn from one another, just as iron sharpens iron.” Ask God to help you be
patient as you try to help others become more like Jesus. Ask Him to help you learn from them, too.
April
11
The Cat and the Hamster
Read: Psalm 145:17-21
As Ashley carried the cat out of her bedroom, she met her mother in the
hall. Mom smiled. “I see you’re up,” she said. “Do you feel better?”
“Not much,” said Ashley, “but Snowball jumped on top of Ziggy’s cage.”
Ashley pointed behind her. “And look at my silly hamster. He’s climbing the
cage like he wants to get out. Ziggy doesn’t even know there’s a cat out here
waiting to catch him.”
Mom nodded. “He obviously doesn’t always know what’s best for him,” she
said. “I’ll put Snowball out, and you get back in bed. Would you like some
juice?” Ashley nodded as Mom took the cat.
When her mother came back, Ashley was lying in bed staring glumly at the
ceiling. “I don’t see why I had to get sick today,” she grumbled. “Our girl’s
basketball play-offs are after school, and I prayed all morning that I’d get well
enough to play. Instead, my throat is still so sore, and I feel lousy. It’s not fair.”
“I know it seems that way,” said Mom sympathetically, “but . . .” She sat on
the edge of the bed. “Tell me—why didn’t you let
your hamster out of his cage a few minutes ago?”
“Let him out with Snowball still here?” asked
Ashley. “Ziggy might have been eaten up!”
“Being in the cage kept him safe,” said Mom,
“and sometimes the difficulties God lets us face
Key Verse
keep us safe and free from worse trouble.”
The Lord is righteous
Ashley thought about Mom’s words. She
in all His ways.
shrugged. “I can’t see what kind of trouble being
Psalm 145:17
sick would be keeping me from today,” she said.
Mom smiled. “Your hamster probably didn’t see
what trouble you were protecting him from, either—and maybe you wouldn’t
have gotten into trouble today,” she replied. “God might be teaching you some
other lesson—perhaps to be patient or to simply trust Him when you don’t
understand why something happens. I don’t know why you’re sick today . . .
but I do know God loves you and does what’s best for you—just like you did
what was best for Ziggy.”
Ashley sighed, but she nodded. “I’ll try to remember that,” she said.
God can
be trusted
Do you blame God when you don’t like what happens to you? Do you think He isn’t
fair when things don’t go as smoothly for you as for someone else? Let Him draw you closer through
any suffering He allows you to face. Trust Him, knowing that He loves you and that all His ways are
right and good.
Real Winners
April
Read: Acts 20:35; 1 Thessalonians 5:11-14
12
Counsellor Daniel stood in front of a large group of wiggly campers. “Have
you boys had a good time at camp this week?” he hollered.
“Yes!” the campers yelled back. Ethan’s voice was a little louder than the others.
This was his first time at church camp and he’d had a blast.
“Today is our last day of competitions,” Counselor Daniel continued, “and
as you know, those of you with gold stars in any category will receive a special
award at tonight’s service when your parents are here. I’ve looked over the list
of winners, and I’m glad to say it includes all of you. But the more stars, the
bigger the rewards, so do you best and have fun!”
Ethan nodded. He knew it took ten stars to get the prize he wanted, and he
already had nine. He planned to get that tenth one today.
“You’ll work with a buddy this afternoon, and I’ve posted the list showing your
event and your buddy,” said Counselor Daniel, pointing to a bulletin board.
The group was dismissed, and Ethan went to look at the list. “Oh no!” he
groaned. He went to his counselor. “I want to win
one more sporting event star, but I’m paired with
Stephen for the three-legged race,” Ethan whispered.
“He hasn’t won a single sports event all week. Can’t I
be with someone else? He’s going to make me lose.”
“Or maybe you’ll help him win for a change,”
Counselor Daniel encouraged. “When one
Key Verse
Christian is stronger than another in some way, it’s
Support the weak.
his job to try and help the other out. I think we
Acts 20:35
can apply that principle to sports, too, don’t you?”
Ethan sighed. “Okay,” he said.
That afternoon when the boys were at the starting line, Ethan grinned at his
buddy. “We can do this,” said Ethan. “Just keep your arm around me like this
and we need to move our tied legs like one. Okay?” Stephen nodded, looking
more confident than he’d been him all week.
The race began, and the two tried their best. Ethan’s heart sank when they
came in second. Then he heard Stephen yell, “Oh, man! We’re second! I’ve never
done so good in my life. Thanks, Ethan! I couldn’t have done it without you.”
That night when Ethan heard Stephan excitedly tell his parents about the race,
he felt like a real winner even though he didn’t receive the prize he’d hoped for.
Help those
weaker than you
Have you been annoyed by someone who was slower at something than you?
Have you ever left other kids out of a game because you thought they would slow you down? If you
are stronger or better at certain things than some other kids, thank the Lord for blessing you with
that ability. But remember that with the ability comes a responsibility. Whenever possible, help those
who are weaker than you. Encourage them as they look for areas in which they can excel.
April
13
Big or Small
Read: Matthew 7:1-5; 1 John 1:8-9
“Have you finished cleaning your room already?” asked Mom as Ella joined
her in the front yard. Ella nodded but avoided her mother’s eyes. She had not
cleaned her room at all, but she intended to get it done before Mom checked later.
Ella waved at a neighbor girl. “You know, Mom,” she said, “it seems like
Nina is always doing something wrong. She cheats sometimes when we play
games, and she tells the biggest lies! I’ve heard her swear, too.”
“That’s too bad,” replied Mom, “but I assume you sin sometimes, too. Right?”
“Well . . . sure,” admitted Ella. She remembered the lie she had just told—
but it seemed like such a little one. Anyhow, I didn’t really lie, she thought. I
just nodded. “The stuff I do isn’t half as bad as what Nina does,” added Ella as
her little sister Grace came out of the house.
“Mommy,” Grace called, “can I . . .” Her question ended in a wail as she fell.
Mom and Ella hurried to help her. “My foot hurts,” said Grace with a sob, “and
my arm does, too.” Upon investigating, they discovered that with bare feet, Grace
had stepped on a sharp, little rock.
After caring for Grace, Mom turned to Ella. “You
compared yourself to Nina,” she said, “but don’t
think your sins are less important in God’s eyes than
hers are. He says if we break just one small part of the
law, we’re as guilty as we’d be if we broke every part.”
Key Verse
“How can that be?” asked Ella. “I don’t get it.”
Whoever shall keep the whole
Mom held out the rock Grace had stepped on.
law, and yet stumble in one
“This
is small, but it hurt your sister and caused her
point, he is guilty of all.
to
fall,”
she said. “Her arm wouldn’t feel any better or
James 2:10
worse if it had been a bigger rock that she stumbled
over.” Mom paused while Ella thought about it. “It’s something like that with sin,”
Mom added. “In God’s sight, there are no big or small sins. It’s all just plain sin.”
Ella frowned. “You mean I might as well do the things Nina does because it’s
all the same to God anyway?” she asked.
“No,” replied Mom, “but instead of pointing a finger at others, we should
confess our own sin to God and determine, with His help, to not do it anymore.”
Jodi was quiet for a moment. Then she jumped up. “I-I didn’t really clean
my room,” she confessed. “I’m sorry. I’ll do it now.” She turned back. “And I’ll
think twice before saying I’m better than somebody else.”
God hates all sin
Do you think of sin as either big or little? God doesn’t. So never get the idea that you’re
better than someone who does things you wouldn't think of doing. Ask God to help you be less critical
of others. As today’s Scripture reading says, don’t judge them. Don’t think of their sin as big and yours
as small. Instead confess the sin in your own life, remembering that to God, sin is simply sin—and He
can't stand sin of any kind.
When Ella, in today’s story, nodded her head, was she really lying?
Why or why not?
_________________________________________________
What are some so-called little wrong things someone might do?
Have you done any of those things yourself?
Which ones have you
done?
____________
Have you confessed them to God? ______
According to the Key Verse, what happens if you break only one part of God’s
law?
Since you’re already guilty after you sin, is it okay to go ahead and sin some
more? (See Romans 6:1-2.)
When you sin, what should you do about it? (See today’s Scripture.)
Take a moment right now to confess any sin you’re aware of in your life.
Ask an adult: What are some things grownups do that they
might think are just small sins?
What have I done lately that I might think is small and
unimportant but I need to realize it’s wrong?
__
Our Key Verse makes it clear that we’re guilty of breaking the whole, entire law even if we break
only a part of it. When we commit a sin that seems small to us, we often think we’re not so bad. But
the verse helps us realize that there’s really no such thing as a small sin. Let’s admit our guilt to God
when we sin, accept His forgiveness, and ask for His help so that we do not repeat it.
Remember . . .
God hates all sin
April
14
Aunt Sue’s Gift
Read: Psalm 119:15-18, 24-27
Kevin waved the brown package excitedly. “Look what came for me in the
mail!” he exclaimed. “I think it’s a birthday present from Aunt Sue!” He eagerly
ripped the paper off the package. Taking out a book, he frowned. “It’s a book
of missionary stories,” he said unhappily. He tossed it on the table.
“Oh, those should be interesting,” said Mom, picking it up. “I’ve heard of
some of the people mentioned here on the back. They have unusual stories.”
Kevin shrugged. “I like mysteries or sports stories,” he muttered.
A couple of months later, there was a missions conference at Kevin’s church.
When his parents had some of the missionaries at their home for dinner, Kevin
listened attentively as one of them told about his experiences in India. “Several
Indians and I were on our way to preach in one of the villages,” said Mr.
Jackson. “All day, we were aware of a leopard following us. We expected it to
attack us at any moment, but it never did. To our surprise, it finally just quit
following us and left us alone.” He smiled. “I believe God kept us safe in
answer to the prayers of many of His people back
home.” He went on to tell of another time God
had kept him safe in a dangerous situation. Kevin
would have liked to hear more, but the
missionaries needed to get to the church for the
evening meeting.
Key Verse
Several days later, Kevin idly took a book from a
Open my eyes, that I may see
shelf and turned a few pages. He suddenly sat up
wondrous things from Your law.
straight. “Mom!” he exclaimed. “This book from
Psalm 119:18
Aunt Sue is written by Mr. Jackson!” Kevin eagerly
started reading the stories.
“This book is good,” said Kevin, putting it down when it was time to go to
bed. “After reading this, I feel like I really know Mr. Jackson. I hope he comes
to our church again sometime.”
“You feel like he’s a friend, don’t you?” asked Mom, smiling. “You met him
briefly, but you got to know him better through his book. That’s something
like our relationship with God, Kevin. Those of us who have met Him—who
have trusted in Jesus—can get to know Him like a friend as we read His book.”
“That’s the Bible, isn’t it?” Kevin replied. He nodded. “I should read something
from it every day, too, and get to know Jesus better.”
Know God
through the Bible
Do you sometimes wish you knew God better? Are you willing to do your part to get to
know Him? Be sure to do your Sunday school or Bible club lessons. Listen to your pastor even though
you may not fully understand the sermons. There’s a book to help you, too—the Bible. Read it
regularly. It will help you get to know God.
Cloudy Skies
Read: Psalm 139:1-3
April
15
Scott stared out the airplane window. He wished he could be excited about
his first plane ride, but his thoughts were swirling like the thick clouds below.
Why did God let Mom and Dad be in that accident? he wondered. I like going
to Grandma and Grandpa’s house to stay a while, but not when it’s because Mom
and Dad are in the hospital.
He turned from the window when the flight attendant arrived and served the
beverages they had requested. “Cheer up, Scott,” encouraged his older brother
Colton, noticing Scott’s frown. “Drink your juice. It will help you feel better.”
“I’m not thirsty,” said Scott. “I keep thinking about Mom and Dad.”
Colton gave him a lop-sided grin. “I know, Scott. I really feel the same
way—but we need to trust God. He loves us and cares for us, and He knows
what He’s doing in our lives.”
Scott nodded, but he wasn’t sure he agreed. He sipped his apple juice, then
with a sigh turned to the window again. Immediately the sigh became a long
whistle. “Look, Colton!” he exclaimed. “The
clouds have cleared away, and I can see all the way
to the ground now.” Pressing his nose to the
window, Scott stared down at the colorful fields
and the cars and trucks that looked like tiny toys.
“I didn’t know it would look like that,” he said.
“Everything looks so little! Cool! I like this!”
Key Verse
Scott’s solemn face had brightened.
He (God) knows the
Colton leaned over. “It’s great,” he agreed, “and
way that I take.
you know what? All that stuff was down there all
Job 23:10
the time. You just couldn’t see it because of the
clouds.” Scott grinned and nodded. “We can think of Mom and Dad’s accident
in the same way,” continued Colton. “To us, the whole situation is cloudy, and
we can’t see anything good in it, but you know who can, right?”
“You’re saying that God can?” asked Scott.
“That’s right,” replied Colton. “Remember what Dad told us when they let
us in to see him at the hospital? He reminded us that we accepted Jesus as
Savior by faith, and we need to live by faith—accepting whatever God allows to
come into our lives. Mom and Dad are doing that, and we need to do it, too.”
Accept what
God sends into
your life
Do you have a cloudy outlook on life? Have things happened that make you think nothing
is going to turn out right? Don't let the hard things of life control your attitude. Remember that God’s
plan is always good. He sees all that will result from it even though you can’t. Accept all that happens
as from His hand.
April
16
A Look at the Heart
Read: Jeremiah 17:5-10; Psalm 51:1-12
“Wow, Mom! I never knew all this stuff before!” exclaimed Luke as he and
his friend Jerome sat on the floor, looking through some books.
“What stuff?” asked his sister Paige, who was doing her homework.
“Jerome and I have to find facts about the heart and then report to the class, so
we’re working on it,” Luke replied. “It’s amazing how our bodies are made!”
Mom nodded. “What did you learn?” she asked.
“Well, it says here that if all our blood vessels were laid end to end, even a
kid’s would stretch over 60,000 miles,” Luke told her. “An adult’s would be
closer to 100,000 miles!”
“Yeah, and it says that in just twenty-four hours, the heart pumps thousands
of quarts of blood,” added Jerome. “It makes the blood circulate through our
bodies a couple of thousand times a day.”
“Wow!” exclaimed Paige. “The heart is pretty small to do all that, isn’t it?”
“Yep. It’s only about as big as a fist,” said Luke, writing the facts on his paper.
“That is really amazing,” agreed Mom. After a
moment she added, “The Bible talks about our
hearts, too—but it’s referring to our thoughts,
attitudes, values, and emotions instead of the
actual organ in our bodies.”
“A verse I learned in Sunday school says our
hearts are deceitful and wicked,” Paige said.
Key Verse
Mom nodded. “That’s because we’re all born
Create in me a clean heart, O God. with a sinful nature,” she explained. “The good
Psalm 51:10
news is that when we trust in Jesus as Savior, God
gives us a new, clean heart.”
The kids nodded. They had heard about the need for a new heart as long as
they could remember, and all three trusted in Jesus. “But sometimes we sin
again,” said Jerome. “When we confess it to God, He forgives us.”
“Yeah. You know what we should do, Jerome?” Luke asked. “We should
include that in our report.” He looked at Mom. “It’s okay to do that, isn’t it?
After all, our teacher told us to put down everything we can find on the subject.”
“Good idea!” approved Mom. “Maybe someone in your class will become
interested in hearing more about the Lord and in learning how he or she can
have a new heart, too!”
Trust Jesus
and receive
a clean heart
Do you have a new, clean heart? Thank God for the amazing physical heart that’s in your
body, but what about your thoughts, attitudes, and values—the person you are? God says your
heart—your inner being—is wicked by nature. He sent His Son Jesus to take the punishment you
deserve. Are you trusting in Him? Why not do so today? (See the ABCs of Salvation at the end of this
book.) Any time you sin again, immediately confess it and renew your fellowship with your Lord.
The Wrong Shoes
Read: Colossians 3:12-15
April
17
“Hi, Kait! Come in!” exclaimed Lori when Kaitlin came to work on a school
project and then spend the night. “Look, Mom!” Lori pointed to her friend’s
feet. “Kait’s new shoes are exactly like mine! Cool!”
The girls had a good time working on their project, sharing snacks, and
trading jokes. “This was fun,” said Lori when they finally finished their work.
The next morning, the girls sleepily dressed and ate their cereal. Then they
had to hurry to catch the school bus. “Can I stop at Kait’s house after school,
Mom?” Lori asked.
“Okay,” agreed Mom. “Just be home in time for supper.”
When Lori came home that afternoon, she plopped down on the couch. “I’m
glad to be home,” she declared. “Kaitlin’s dad wasn’t in a very good mood. Her
little brother was annoying—she says he’s always getting into her stuff. And
Kait’s mom was at work and had left a whole list of chores for her to do.” Lori
took off her shoe and looked at her foot. “Besides, my feet hurt. These new
shoes rubbed a blister on my heel.”
“Maybe they just need to be broken in,” said
Mom, looking at the label in the shoe. “This is size
five and a half!” she exclaimed. “You should have a
six. You girls must have worn each other’s shoes.”
“No wonder my feet hurt!” exclaimed Lori. She
laughed. “My teacher quoted an old proverb that says
Key Verse
you should never judge a man until you have
Judge not that you be not judged.
walked a mile in his shoes. Well, I guess Kaitlin
Matthew 7:1
and I walked at least that far in each other’s today.”
Mom smiled. “Yes, you did that literally, and
spending time at someone’s house is also kind of like walking in that person’s
shoes,” she said. “So what did you learn from walking in Kaitlin’s shoes?”
Lori hesitated. “I’ve been at her house before, but I never knew what Kait
has to put up with sometimes,” she said at last.
“We’re often not aware of problems other people are facing,” Mom replied.
“That’s one reason we should criticize them less and pray for them instead.”
Lori nodded and stood up. “Well, right now I’m going to call Kaitlin and see
how she liked walking in my shoes,” she decided with a grin. “At least the ones
she wore were big enough for her.”
Be thoughtful
of others
Are you too quick to criticize other kids—or adults—without trying to understand
why they behave as they do? Perhaps you need to walk in their shoes for a while and think about
what it would be like to live in their circumstances. Perhaps you’ll learn that they are hurting, and you
may have an opportunity to encourage them to talk to the Lord about their troubles. Don’t judge and
criticize them; pray for them.
April
18
Go Down Deep
Read: Proverbs 2:1-5
Josh sprawled on his bed and flipped through a pile of photographs. When
his dad looked in, Josh glanced up. “Hey, Dad! I think I’ll be a deep sea diver
someday,” Josh announced. “Look at these pictures Uncle Wayne brought over
this afternoon. He took them when he went deep sea diving in Florida.”
Dad peered over Josh’s shoulder. “What unusual plants and animals!” Dad
exclaimed. “And what vivid colors!” His eyes twinkled. “Maybe I should
become a deep sea diver, too. It would be great to actually see those things.”
Josh laughed, knowing Dad was just kidding.
Together they examined more of the pictures. “God must have a wonderful
imagination in order to create such a variety of life forms,” observed Dad.
“Uncle Wayne says the farther down in the ocean you go, the prettier it
gets,” said Josh as he picked up another picture. He paused and turned to his
dad. “Why do you suppose God made such interesting creatures and then hid
them down deep in the ocean where most people don’t ever see them?”
Dad thought for a moment. “I’m not sure,” he
said, “but these pictures remind me of the great
God we have—and also of the riches that we can
find in the Bible.”
“The Bible?” repeated Josh. “What do these
Key Verse
pictures have to do with the Bible?”
Present yourself approved
Dad smiled. “Well, think of Uncle Wayne. He’s
to God . . . rightly dividing
seen the ocean many times, and yet he decided he
the word of truth.
wanted to explore it more thoroughly—to go
2 Timothy 2:15
down deep to see what he could discover. Do you
think he was rewarded for his efforts?”
“He sure was,” said Josh as he shuffled through the pictures again.
Dad nodded. “It’s like that with God’s Word,” he said. “If we explore and study
it, He’ll reward us, too. I used to think personal devotions weren’t important. I
figured I’d already heard all those Bible stories—and biblical principles—in
church and Sunday school.”
“You probably had,” said Josh. “I have, too.”
“We’ve heard many,” agreed Dad, “but God will reveal additional knowledge,
insights, and wisdom to those who are willing to dig deeper into His Word.
Get it?” Thoughtfully, Josh nodded.
Study the Bible
Are you aware that the Bible has much to teach you? It holds a tremendous amount
of knowledge, and as you spend time reading and studying God’s Word, He will teach you new things.
He’ll help you understand things that happen in life, He’ll teach you more about Himself, and He’ll
show you commandments and promises He has for you. There will always be something for you to
learn and to put into practice.
Moving Mountains
Read: Ephesians 2:8-10; James 2:14-18
April
19
Ben sat on the steps, his chin cupped in his hand, and stared at a mound of
dirt in the middle of the yard. “Hey, there, Ben. What’s wrong?” asked
Grandpa, coming around the corner of the house. He sat down next to Ben.
“I must not have any faith at all,” replied Ben with a sigh.
Grandpa looked surprised. “Why do you think that?” he asked.
“At Bible school, my teacher read a verse that says if you have just a little
faith, you can tell a mountain to move from one place to another, and it will,”
replied Ben. (See Matthew 17:20) “Well, I’ve been sitting here quite a while,
telling that mound of dirt in the middle of the yard to move over next to the
barn, and it hasn’t moved an inch! If I can’t move that little pile of dirt, I sure
can’t move a mountain. I must not have any faith at all.” Ben shook his head.
Grandpa looked thoughtful but didn’t say anything. Then he got up, went to
the barn, and returned a few minutes later with two shovels and a wheelbarrow.
He left them near the mound of dirt, then went and sat down next to Ben again.
“Ben,” said Grandpa, “there is also a verse in the
Bible that says faith without works is dead.”
“There is?” asked Ben.
“Yep!” Grandpa nodded. “Now . . . I have faith
that the mound of dirt will move, so let’s add work.”
Ben looked startled. Then he smiled. “Okay,” he
Key Verse
agreed, and he and Grandpa got busy. They
I
will
show
you my faith
shoveled dirt into the wheelbarrow and took turns
by
my
works.
wheeling it over to the barn.
James
2:18
“See, Ben,” said Grandpa a little later. He
pointed to the middle of the yard and then to the
place near the barn. “The mound of dirt moved just like you told it to.”
Ben grinned, and Grandpa put his hand on Ben’s shoulder. “The next time
you feel overwhelmed by something,” he said, “pray, put your faith in God,
and then get in there and work!” Ben nodded, looking thoughtful. “And Ben,”
added Grandpa, “don’t doubt God or your faith.”
“Okay, Grandpa,” said Ben. “Thanks.”
“Now let’s go see if your Mom will make us some lemonade,” said Grandpa.
“Moving mountains makes you thirsty!”
Ben laughed as he and Grandpa went into the house.
Faith and work
go together
Do you have faith that God can do anything? Do you add work to that faith? As it
says in Ephesians, you’re saved through faith, but it also says you’re created for good works. It’s easy to
say you have faith, but as James points out, works can show that it’s true. So when you have a problem,
pray and believe God will help you. Then work at the problem. Don't be afraid to talk about it with
parents or other mature Christians who love you. They’ll be happy to help you move mountains, too.
April
20
The Honor Roll
Read: Matthew 5:10-12
Amy curled up in her favorite chair and began to read, but she soon slammed
the book shut. This is a bad book, she thought. The language is terrible! Amy
frowned as she looked at the cover. But I have to read it for my class! she
remembered. Or do I? I’m going to ask Mrs. Rogers if I can read a different one.
She checked with her mother, and with Mom’s approval, Amy talked to her
teacher the next day. But Mrs. Rogers refused to change the assignment. “This
book tells about life as it is,” she said firmly. “You can’t hide from life behind
your cloak of religion, Amy.”
“But the characters use really bad language,” Amy protested. “I read the
book far enough to know that the people in the story do terrible things, too.”
“It’s real life,” Mrs. Rogers insisted. “They do things people have been doing
since time began. And they use words you hear every day.”
“But I shouldn’t have to read them, too,” objected Amy.
“You’ll read that book or take a zero!” said Mrs. Rogers with a frown.
Amy blinked back the tears. A zero would bring
her grade down, and she had worked hard, hoping
for an A. She sighed. “Then I guess I’ll have to
take a zero,” Amy said softly as she left the room.
When Amy got home, she told her mother what
her teacher had said. “Should I have done what she
Key Verse
wanted me to, Mom?”
Our light affliction . . . is working
Mom shook her head. “No, honey,” she said, “but
for us a far more exceeding
maybe I should speak with Mrs. Rogers myself.”
and eternal weight of glory.
“No, Mom. Please,” said Amy. “It’s not that
2 Corinthians 4:17
important, and I should still get a good grade.”
Three weeks later, Amy came home with her report card. “Mrs. Rogers gave
me a C and made me miss the honor roll,” she said. Tears filled her eyes. “It’s
not fair! I should have gotten at least a B, even with the zero she gave me.”
“You may have missed the honor roll at your school,” said Mom, hugging
her tightly, “but I think you’ve made the one in heaven. I’m very proud of you,
and I know your heavenly Father is, too.” Amy smiled shakily as Mom quoted
a verse Amy had recently learned: “Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is
your reward in heaven.”
Take a stand for
what is right
Are you ready and willing to stand up for what is right? Sometimes it’s hard to do
that, and the immediate results are not always pleasant. But the testing time will soon pass, and your
reward for doing right will last forever.
In today’s story, was Amy right to not read the book her teacher assigned? Why
or why not?
Would you dare to question an assignment?
Have you been required to take part in a school activity—perhaps a drama, dance,
or class—that you or your parents did not approve of?
If so, how
did you handle it?
Why is it best to stand for what is right even if it means it will hurt your grade
in school or will cause kids to laugh at you?
Perhaps classmates or acquaintances urge you to disobey God in some way—
maybe to try alcohol or drugs, cheat, listen to bad jokes, or shoplift. Have you
had the courage to tell them you’re a Christian and don’t want to do those things?
What did they say?
Next time you’re laughed at for doing the right thing, remember that your trials
are temporary but the rewards God gives are eternal.
Ask an adult: How did God help you when you were in a situation
where you were expected to do something that was not pleasing
to Him?
Our Key Verse calls the trials we face our “light affliction.” Those trials may seem to last a long time,
but compared to eternity, they’re very short. The pain we feel for being mocked or laughed at when we
do the right thing doesn’t seem so bad when we remember the rewards God promises for being
obedient and faithful to Him. Troubles we experience in this life are light and insignificant compared to
the joy we’ll experience for eternity.
God blesses when you . . .
take a stand for what is right
April
21
Noah’s Prayer
Read: Luke 6:27-36
Noah wore a big smile as he and Kyle walked home together. Kyle looked at
his little brother. “What are you so happy about?” asked Kyle.
Noah’s grin grew even broader. “It worked!” he said. “Pastor Dunn said we
should pray for our enemies, so I’ve been praying for Derek ever since he knocked
me off the swing last week.”
“Oh . . . yeah . . . well, that’s nice,” said Kyle.
“Derek’s always mean—nobody likes him,” added Noah. “Anyway, I’ve been
praying, and today Derek had to go to the hospital to have his appendix out,
and he won’t be back in school for a long time!”
“What has that got to do with your prayers?” asked Kyle in surprise.
“God got him back for all the mean things he’s done to me,” explained Noah.
Kyle frowned. “Don’t tell me you asked God to make something bad happen
to Derek!” he exclaimed.
“Sure. Like my Sunday school verse said—‘Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,
says the Lord.’ I asked God to repay Derek, and
He did it!” Noah shrugged. “You don’t think I’d
pray for nice things to happen to him, do you?”
Kyle laughed. “I don’t think you listened to
everything Pastor Dunn said about praying for your
enemies,” he replied. “You’re supposed to do good
Key Verse
to them—be nice to them and not hate them. I
Love your enemies . . . and pray
think you should pray they’ll be saved, too.”
for those who spitefully
“But . . . but . . .” muttered Noah. “It just
use you and persecute you.
seemed so good for something bad to happen to
Matthew 5:44
Derek for a change.”
“Well, you better keep praying for him,” suggested Kyle, “and this time ask
God to help him get better fast. Okay?”
Noah sighed. “Okay, I will,” he agreed. After a moment, he added, “But I
still think it will be nice to not have him around for a while!”
Kyle smiled and lightly boxed his little brother’s arm. “Yeah? Well, maybe
that is a good thing,” agreed Kyle, “since it will give you plenty of time to pray
about your attitude.”
Pray for
your enemies
Do you know someone who is not a nice person? Would you like to see something bad
happen to him or her? Pray for that person, not against him. The Bible says you should love such a
person, too—be nice and don’t hate. It may not be easy at first, but after a while you may find that
someone you thought was an enemy really isn’t so bad after all. Try it!
No Giving Up
Read: John 15:4-5, 8
April
22
“I love plums! Plum season is usually the best time of the year,” declared
Tricia, looking at the wild plum trees across from their home. “We usually get
so many, but this year they’ve been shriveling up and dropping off all summer.
They should be almost ripe by now, but they look like prunes.”
“Dad says that’s because it’s been so cold and dry,” replied her sister Jill. The
girls walked across the street to check the trees again. Jill picked up a plum.
“This one’s sort of okay-looking,” she said.
Tricia popped the “okay-looking” plum into her mouth. Then she made a
face. “These things are gross!” she exclaimed. She sighed. “We still have a few
jars of plum jelly left, but not enough, and we won’t be making any this year.”
“No,” said Jill. Then she added, “It’s like Pastor Mason said yesterday.”
“He talked about plums?” asked Tricia with a grin. “I must have missed it.”
“He didn’t mention plums, but he talked about serving God,” replied Jill.
“And what does that have to do with plums?” Tricia asked. “I don’t get it.”
“He said it’s great when people witness or do
something to serve God year after year. I think
that’s kind of like these plum trees that produced
good fruit for us year after year,” Jill explained.
Tricia frowned. “Well, this year the plums just
dried up,” she grumbled.
Key Verse
“Yeah, and Pastor Mason said we shouldn’t be
Let us not grow weary while
like that. We shouldn’t get discouraged and give
doing good, for in due season we
up,” replied Jill. “We should keep serving God.”
shall reap if we do not lose heart.
Tricia picked up a withered plum. “What about
Galatians 6:9
people like our Bible club teacher?” she asked.
“She’s not teaching right now. That’s because her mother needs her help.”
“Pastor Mason said it’s good to sometimes rest—maybe even take a break from
some activities, but we shouldn’t think we’re finished—we should keep on serving
God.” She paused. “I’ve got an idea!” she added. “Every time we wish we had
plum jelly next winter, it can remind us that we should witness to our friends.”
Tricia laughed. “You and your plum tree illustration is quite a stretch,” she
said, “but okay. You have a good idea—and let’s check up on each other and
see if we really do it. Deal?”
Jill nodded. “Deal!” she agreed.
Keep serving
Jesus
What have you done to serve Jesus lately? Have you shared a Gospel tract? Invited
someone to Sunday school? Told somebody about Jesus? Perhaps you witnessed in the past, but you
got discouraged. Maybe you helped in Sunday school or sang in a kids’ choir, but you felt like nobody
appreciated it. Don’t dry up. Keep serving God so He can produce fruit in your life.
April
23
What Really Counts
Read: Luke 18:9-14
Phil and his friends were stunned. One of their classmates had been killed in
a car accident. “We feel sad this morning,” said Miss Kendall, their teacher.
“Sometimes it makes us feel better to remember good and happy things about a
person who has died. Would anyone like to share something special about
Jonathan?” So several students mentioned things they liked about their friend.
Amelia spoke first. “Jonathan played his horn really good,” she said.
“He was smart,” offered Jason. “He could figure things out real quick.”
“He was always nice to other kids,” said Marcy.
“Jonathan was a good person,” said Dylan. “He went to church every week.”
Phil fidgeted in his seat. The things the kids said were true, but nobody had
mentioned the most important thing of all. Jonathan and I talked about it just
last week. Do I dare tell them? he wondered. Phil hesitated a few minutes
longer, then slowly raised his hand.
“Yes, Phil?” His teacher said and smiled at him.
“Well, my dad always says people are like cars,”
began Phil nervously, “but Jonathan wasn’t at all
like my brother Robert’s car.” Phil noticed some of
the kids frowning at him and realized how odd that
sounded. He hurried to explain. “See . . . when
Robert wanted to buy a car, he brought it home to
show Dad. It looked really nice and Robert liked
Key Verse
the CD player and stuff. But Dad kept saying,
God, be merciful to me a sinner.
‘What about the engine? It’s what’s under the hood
Luke 18:13
that really counts.’ But Robert didn’t listen, and
now his car won’t run half the time.” Phil paused,
surprised at the long speech he was making. He noticed kids were still frowning.
“That’s interesting,” said Miss Kendall kindly, “but would you like to say
something more about Jonathan, too?”
“What I wanted to say was . . . we’ve heard a lot of good things about Jonathan,
but like I said, I’m glad I can tell you he’s not like Robert’s car,” said Phil. “He
didn’t just look good. A couple of months ago Jonathan told me he trusted Jesus
as his Savior. That made him good in God’s sight, and that’s what really counts.”
Phil saw that a few kids looked puzzled, but some were smiling now. And he
felt like up in heaven Jonathan was smiling, too.
Believe
in Jesus
Is your life like a car that doesn’t just look good, but is good? Being helpful and
kind, attending church and Sunday school, and doing all sorts of other good things may help you look
good to others. But to look good to God, you must receive His righteousness—His goodness—by
believing in Jesus as Savior. That’s what really counts. Give your heart and life to Him today. (See the
ABCs of Salvation at the end of this book.)
Toby’s Toe
Read: 1 Corinthians 12:12-26
April
24
Toby stretched, yawned, and turned off the alarm. For several minutes he
argued with himself. One voice in his thoughts said, Get up. It’s time for
Sunday school. Another voice said, Why not skip it? Your folks don’t go. Sleep a
little longer. In the end, the wrong voice won. “I’ll never be missed,” Toby
mumbled as he pulled the blanket over his head. “Those guys don’t care if I
come or not.”
At recess the next day, Toby tripped over a stump and broke a toe. “Oh-h-h!”
he moaned as the doctor checked it out. “It hurts so bad!”
Dr. Bradford nodded. “It will hurt for a while,” he said, “but it will heal just
fine. Give it time.”
When Toby went to the mall with his mother on Saturday, he saw his
Sunday school teacher there. While Toby’s mom paid for the things she was
buying, Toby and Mr. Burns talked. “I see you’re limping. Did you hurt your
foot?” asked Mr. Burns. “Is that why you weren’t in Sunday school last week?”
“I broke my toe on Monday,” Toby answered. “I
didn’t come Sunday because . . . well . . . I just
figured I wouldn’t be missed anyway.”
“Oh, you were missed,” said Mr. Burns. “The kids
wondered if you were sick. They prayed for you.”
“Really?” Toby asked.
Key Verse
“Really,” Mr. Burns replied. “When you’re
Rejoice with those who rejoice,
absent, there’s a big gap in our class.” He pointed
and
weep with those who weep.
to Toby’s foot. “Your toe isn’t very big, but when
Romans 12:15
you broke it, did it just bother that one toe or did
it affect your whole body?”
“For a couple of days, I couldn’t do much at all,” Toby said. He laughed.
“Dad said I acted like I broke my back.”
“So it affected your whole body,” said Mr. Burns with a smile. “It’s like that
with Christians, too. Each one is important, even those who may think they’re
the little toe. When one member hurts, we all hurt.” He patted Toby’s arm.
“You are important to our class, Toby. Don’t ever forget that.”
Toby grinned. “I won’t, Mr. Burns,” he said. “My toe won’t let me. For a
while, every step I take will remind me. See you tomorrow morning.”
Share joys and
sorrows
Do you know someone who feels unimportant and needs encouragement?
Each Christian is a member of the body of Christ and should share others’ joys and sorrows. Let them
know when you have something you’d like them to pray about, and ask if there’s something they’d
like you to pray about, too—and then be sure to do that. Be glad when good things happen to others,
and share your happy experiences as well.
April
25
Two Tents
Read: Philippians 4:11-13
“I wish my dad liked camping like your dad does,” Sonya complained to her
friend Bethany.
Bethany looked at the beautiful furnishings in Sonya’s home. “Well, I wish
we had as many nice things as you do,” she said, “but we don’t have very much
money.” The girls went on to compare and complain about their circumstances.
“I think you girls need something useful to do,” said Sonya’s mother, who
was tired of their complaints. “I need to make some visits for the church
welcoming committee. How about coming along?” Hesitantly, the girls agreed.
At the first stop, a young woman invited them in. “You’ll have to excuse this
house,” said Mrs. Marsh. “My kids drive me crazy. I’ll be glad when they’re all
in school and I can get a little peace and quiet.” Motioning for her guests to sit
down, she said, “I wish we had never moved to this unfriendly town!” And for
the rest of the visit, she continued to complain about everything and everybody.
When they left, Bethany whistled. “Wow! I wonder if she’s ever happy about
anything,” she said.
A smiling lady answered the door when they
made the next call. “We’re so happy here,” Mrs.
Perry bubbled to her guests. “We’re thankful we
found a loving church family so quickly.” As they
visited with her, she went on to praise the church,
Key Verse
the schools, and the people in their neighborhood.
I have learned in whatever
“Mrs. Marsh and Mrs. Perry are so different!”
state I am, to be content.
exclaimed Sonya on the way home. “They moved
Philippians 4:11
to town about the same time; their husbands work
for the same company; they live in the same
neighborhood; and they attend the same church. But one grumbled the whole
time we were there, and the other one is happy about everything. Why is that?”
“Well,” said her mother, “God says we’re to think about good things. It
seems Mrs. Perry has learned to look for and think about what’s good in any
situation, and Mrs. Marsh has not.”
“I guess not!” exclaimed Bethany.
“There are two ‘tents’ in which we can live,” added Mom quietly. “One is
contentment, and the other is discontentment. It’s not activities or time or money
that determines how happy you are. It’s which ‘tent’ you choose to live in.”
Learn to be
content
Are you living in contentment? That’s what God wants you to do. You often aren’t able to
choose the circumstances in which you must live, but look for the good things in any situation and ask
God to help you be content with what He provides. Choose to be satisfied, knowing that He wants only
what is best for you. Choose to live in contentment, not in discontentment.
What makes you unhappy? List a couple of things you wish were different.
Now list some of the blessings God has given you. ___
Which of the above lists do you think about more often—the first or the
second?
Which one would God want you to
think about? (See Philippians 4:8.)
Look at that first list and write down at least two good things about the
circumstances you wish could be different.
As you pray about the challenges in your life, what should be included
besides your requests? (Philippians 4:6)
What does God promise to give you when you follow His instructions?
(Philippians 4:7)
Circle the kind of tent you’ll live in when you obey God.
discontentment
contentment
Don’t forget . . . THE CHOICE IS YOURS!
Ask an adult: Do I act as though I’m contented most of the time,
or discontented?
be more contented?
What can I do
Our Key Verse says that the Apostle Paul learned to be content in whatever circumstances, he was
in. If you read through the book of Acts, you’ll see that he faced many difficulties and hardships. Yet he
learned to be content in all of them. Can you say that as well? Whenever you talk to God about your
situation, be sure to thank Him for your blessings, too. As you choose to think about good things, you
will receive the peace and contentment only God can give.
Make the right choice . . .
learn to be content
April
26
Feather Spreaders
Read: James 3:5-13
Elijah looked up when his grandma spoke. “Why so glum, buddy?” she asked.
“No one likes me,” replied Elijah with a sigh. “The kids call me big mouth.”
“And why is that?” asked Grandma.
“I . . . I said something about a guy on my soccer team, and he found out,”
said Elijah. “And then . . . well, I told a secret after I promised Patrick I wouldn’t.”
“Hm-m-m,” murmured Grandma, taking a book of Chinese folk tales from a
shelf. She settled into a chair near Elijah. “Maybe this story will help you,” she said.
Grandma began to read aloud. “In a small Chinese village a woman known
for her hateful way of talking about others, decided one morning to turn over a
new leaf. She wanted to be remembered for good things. So she went to the
wisest old man in the village. ‘I don’t want people to remember me as a hateful
loud mouth,’ she said. ‘How can I make it right?’”
Grandma glanced at Elijah, then continued reading. “The old man stood up,
looked around his small home, and picked up a pillow. ‘Let’s take a walk,’ he
said, ripping a hole in the pillow. As they walked
all over the village, he held the pillow in the breeze
and let the tiny white feathers inside float away.
“Puzzled, the woman looked at the old man.
‘Aren’t you going to tell me how to make things
right with the people in this village?’ she asked.
Key Verse:
“‘Go back,’ the man said, ‘and put every feather
Let the words of my mouth
back into the pillow. Then you will know.’
. . . be acceptable
“‘That’s impossible,’ cried the woman. ‘They’re
in Your sight, O Lord.
everywhere.
They can never be taken back.’
Psalms 19:14
“The old man smiled. ‘Nor can the words of
our mouths be taken back once they are spoken,’ he replied.
“‘Then what should I do?’ the woman asked sadly.
“‘Stop spreading the feathers,’ was the answer.” Grandma closed the book.
“So . . . then would people remember her for good things?” Elijah asked.
“And if I change my ways, my friends will notice and stop being mean?”
“Hopefully,” Grandma replied. “The Bible says we can use our mouths to be a
blessing, but if we aren’t careful they can be a real problem. You can’t take words
back, but you can apologize and use your mouth to be a blessing from now on.”
Elijah nodded. “I’d much rather be a blessing than a feather spreader.”
Use words
acceptable to God
Are you guilty of spreading unkind words? What consequences have you faced as a
result? Has it made other kids distrust and perhaps dislike you? Someone has suggested that before
you say anything about someone else, you should ask yourself, “Is it true and is it kind?” Also be sure
to ask yourself, “Will it be pleasing to the Lord?” Make a commitment to God to never be a feather
spreader by saying something you’ll want to take back. Say only things acceptable to Him.
The Dead Bee
Read: Romans 12:17-21
April
27
Andy trudged home, a grim look on his face. He knew his mother would
take one look at his clothes and know he had been in another fight. And Dad
would . . . well, Andy didn’t know what Dad would do. But I don’t care!
thought Andy. Ever since Jase lied and got me in trouble, I can’t stand that guy!
As Andy passed an empty lot, he glanced toward an old tree stump where a
swarm of bees had made a hive. There were none buzzing around, and he noticed a
few lying on the ground. “Dead bees! I guess they couldn’t stand the cold! I’ve been
wanting one for my insect collection,” he muttered. “Here’s my chance to get it
without getting stung.” He picked up a bee and carefully put it in his pocket.
When Andy arrived home, it was just as he expected. “Andrew James!” his
mother exclaimed. “You’ve been in another fight! I suppose it was Jase again.”
Andy’s father was already home, too, and Andy felt bad when he saw the
disappointed look on his dad’s face. “Well, Jase is always mean to me,” said
Andy, trying to defend his actions. “He says all kinds of hateful things!”
“We’ve discussed before what Jesus says about
the way we should treat those who aren’t nice to
us,” said Dad. “Using our fists on them is not one
of the things He wants us to do.”
“No, but I . . . I try not to get mad, but I just
can’t help it,” mumbled Andy. He shoved his
Key Verse
hands into his pockets. With a yelp, he jerked
Do not be overcome by evil,
them out again, and a bee flew to the window. “It
stung me!” Andy exclaimed. “I thought that thing
but overcome evil with good.
Romans 12:21
was dead!”
As Dad removed the stinger from Andy’s finger,
he shook his head. “You know, Son,” he said, “the anger and unforgiveness you
have toward Jase is something like that bee. Those feelings lie quietly in your
heart and seem to be dead, but when Jase provokes you, they flare up again.
You need to give your hurt and anger to God.”
“I’ve tried,” said Andy. “It doesn’t seem to work.”
“You can’t just say the words; you have to mean them,” said Dad. “And do
what God says—do good to Jase. I think you’ll be surprised at what happens.”
“Be nice to him?” Andy asked. “But he . . .” Andy paused. “Be nice to him,” he
repeated after thinking it over. “I’ll try it. I’ll give him a . . . a cookie tomorrow.”
Overcome evil
with good
Does anger, envy, or selfishness flare up in your heart from time to time? Did
you think you had conquered it, but there it is again? Perhaps you’ve prayed about it and said all the
right words, but you never tried God’s method of overcoming it—you’ve never replaced it with doing
good to the other person involved. Sincerely ask God to show you a nice thing you can do for the
person you dislike, and then do that nice thing.
April
28
Instant Everything
Read: Romans 14:10-13; Galatians 6:1-2
“I feel like cooking something,” said Kris. “Can I fix supper? It’ll be fun.”
“Sure,” said Mom, “but Dad has a business dinner tonight, so it will just be
you and Doug and me.”
“Let’s have TV dinners then, okay?” asked Kris. “But can I make some extra
potatoes? We have a box of instant mashed potato flakes, don’t we? I know how
to do them. And can I fix instant pudding for dessert? With whipped topping?”
“If you like,” agreed Mom. “I’ve already made a salad—it’s in the refrigerator.
We could have brown-’n-serve rolls, too. Think you can handle that?”
“No problem,” said Kris. She went to work, and soon the meal was ready.
As they ate their dinner, they talked about what had happened that day.
“Instead of collecting our homework, Mrs. Derks just asked if we had finished
it,” Kris reported. “Before school started, Natalie told me she hadn’t done hers,
but when Mrs. Derks asked her, she said it was all finished! Can you believe that?”
“That’s nothing unusual. Kids do that all the time,” said Doug.
“Yes, but she’s supposed to be a Christian!”
exclaimed Kris. “I felt like telling her off.”
“She hasn’t been a Christian very long, though,”
said Doug. “I mean, we all do wrong things, too,
and we’ve been Christians quite a long time.”
“Doug has a point,” said Mom.
Key Verse
“But she lied!” protested Kris as she got up to
We who are strong ought
get their dessert.
to bear with the
“I’m not excusing what Natalie did,” said Mom,
scruples (failings) of the weak.
“and
maybe you can lovingly remind her that God
Romans 15:1
wants her to be honest, but don’t be too hard on her.”
“Looks good!” said Doug when Kris set the instant pudding in front of him.
“It does,” agreed Mom. “You know, it occurs to me that these days we often
get the idea that everything should be instant—like much of this meal is. Most
of these things were easy and quick to fix because they’re instant foods—they’re
pre-cooked. Sometimes we expect spiritual maturity to be like that, but it isn’t.”
“So it’s more like the salad you made?” Kris asked. “That took quite a bit of
time, didn’t it?”
Mom nodded. “Yes, and it takes time to become a mature Christian, too. So
don’t expect too much too soon from Natalie. Give her time to learn and grow.”
Spiritual growth
takes time
Do you have friends who are new Christians? When you accept Jesus as your Savior, you
are instantly saved—but you aren’t instantly mature. Don’t expect instant maturity from your friends,
either. Pray for them, and learn to be patient as together you grow and learn more about God and
what pleases Him.
A Hurt Finger
Read: James 1:22-25
April
29
Troy struggled to unscrew the lid of a small bottle of paint he needed to use
on a model airplane he’d gotten for his birthday. His face turned red as he tried
with all his might to turn the lid. Finally, he took the bottle out to the garage,
picked up one of Dad’s screwdrivers, and tried to pry the lid off. The screwdriver
slipped and jabbed his finger. “Ouch!” Troy cried as he watched a trickle of blood
run from the cut. He put the bottle down and went into the house for a bandage.
When Troy returned to the garage, Dad had just gotten home from work.
“What did you do to your finger?” Dad asked, looking at the bandage on Troy’s
hand. Troy explained about the lid. “Did you read the directions on the bottle?”
asked Dad.
“Directions?” Troy frowned. “To open a bottle?”
Dad picked up the bottle of paint and pointed to the writing on the top of
the lid. “It says to push down and then turn, Troy. Did you do that?”
Troy shook his head. “I didn’t see that,” he said. When he followed the
directions, the lid came off easily. Troy laughed.
“Next time I try something new, I’ll know enough
to read the directions. Want to see how far I’ve got
my model done, Dad?”
“Sure,” Dad replied, and they went into the
house. “Good job,” said Dad, admiring the model
Key Verse
airplane. “I hope your sore finger won’t bother you
Be
doers
of the word, and
too much while you finish it.”
not
hearers
only.
“Me, too,” said Troy. After a moment he added,
James
1:22
“Hey, Dad, this is like what you told me last week.”
Dad grinned. “I told you a lot of things last
week,” he said. “Which piece of good advice are you thinking of?”
“You said the Bible gives us directions for life,” replied Troy, “and that without
them, we might do things that are wrong and then we’re sure to get hurt. Like
I hurt my finger when I ignored the directions on the bottle of paint, right?”
“Good thinking,” said Dad, “but when you don’t follow God’s instructions
on how to live, you can get hurt a lot worse than having a sore finger.”
“Yeah, well, like I said . . . now I know enough to read the directions,” Troy
replied with a smile. “And I even know I better follow them, too!”
Follow God’s
directions
Do you read the directions God gives in the Bible? Do you follow them? Or do
you attempt to do things your own way? It’s important to read the Bible and learn what God says, but
be sure you don’t just read His directions. Failure to do what God says can result in getting hurt
spiritually—and sometimes even physically. Remember . . . read and follow Gods directions.
April
30
Pedal Boats and People
Read: John 15:12-13
“All together now!” Amanda called out. She and Grandpa sat in the back of a
pedal boat; her sister Jessica and Grandma sat in the front. They started out all
pedaling together.
They were having a good time, but when Jessica got tired, she lifted her feet.
For a while, Grandma kept pedaling, but then she stopped, too.
“I need to give my knees a rest,” said Grandpa a few minutes later. He
stretched his legs out on the side of the boat, leaving Amanda to pedal alone.
“This is too hard since you all of you quit,” muttered Amanda. She quit
pedaling, and the boat soon drifted to a stop.
They enjoyed drifting for a little while; then Grandpa sat up straight.
“Pedaling is harder than it looks,” he said, “but are you all ready to tackle it
again? If we don’t work together, we’ll sit out here all day.”
“Yeah, and I’m getting hungry,” said Jessica. She lifted her feet and began to
pedal. The others did the same, and soon they were back at the boat dock.
“That was fun,” said Amanda as they headed for
a restaurant, “except when I had to pedal alone.”
Grandpa smiled. “That reminds me of a Bible
verse,” he said. “Galatians 6:2 says, ‘Bear one
another's burdens.’ How can we do that?”
“By everybody pedaling,” said Jessica promptly.
“You’re right,” agreed Grandpa. “That’s certainly
Key Verse
the way to do it when we’re in a pedal boat. What
Bear one another's burdens.
are some other ways to help bear people’s burdens?
Galatians 6:2
Like . . . well, think about Mr. and Mrs. Peterson,
for example.”
“They like us to visit since they’re shut-ins,” Jessica said. “They liked the
cookies we gave them, too.”
Amanda nodded. “And we can send cards and pray for them,” she suggested,
“and for other shut-ins we know, too.”
“The Petersons’ daughter cooks for them and cleans their house,” said
Grandma. “I know she appreciates all the help others give her elderly parents.”
“It would be hard for her to care for them all by herself,” said Jessica.
“Like having to pedal the boat all by myself,” groaned Amanda. She grinned.
“I can see that working together makes life easier in all kinds of situations.”
Work together
Do you know any kids who are having a hard time? Maybe they’ve been sick, parents
have lost their jobs, or school work is difficult. Pray for those kids, offer to help with homework, invite
them to your house—and be sure to let them know Jesus loves them. Like riding in a pedal boat, life
is easier when people work together and help each other.
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