Podcasts about cbh

Bible Reading: Genesis 1:27; 1 Peter 1:18-19"I don't get it, Grandpa." Malik scratched his head as he looked at the painting. "What is it?""Well, the title is Three Musicians. Try squinting your eyes and tilting your head." "I think I see a clarinet and a guitar, but the musicians look a little creepy.""That's the beauty of art," said Grandpa. "Everyone sees something different." Malik and his grandparents were spending the afternoon at an art museum. Malik had never seen so many paintings and sculptures. Hundreds of pieces of artwork hung on walls that stretched on for what seemed like miles. "Which painting is your favorite, Malik?" Grandma asked."I'm not sure, Grammy. Some of these paintings look like they were painted by a three-year-old. Other paintings look way better than anything I could paint. If I had to pick my favorite, it might be Three Musicians. I like that you have to think about what you're looking at. How much do you think a painting like that costs?"Grandma shrugged. Grandpa scratched his chin. "I'm sure that painting costs millions of dollars.""Millions of dollars!" Malik couldn't believe it. "It doesn't look that valuable." Grandpa smiled. "It's not valuable because of how it looks. It's valuable because of who made it. Three Musicians was painted by Pablo Picasso, one of the greatest artists of all time. Many people consider it to be one of his masterpieces." Grandma put her arm around Malik. "Every time I come here I can't help but think that none of these masterpieces compare to God's masterpieces.""God's masterpieces?" asked Malik. "Where are God's masterpieces?" Grandma smiled. "Take a look in the mirror.""Me?" Malik asked."You got it. The Bible says God made all of us in His image. We're God's masterpieces. Our value doesn't come from how we look, but from who made us.""That's right," Grandpa chimed in. "The Bible also says God paid a high price for us. He sent His Son to die on the cross to save us from sin. Jesus paid for us with His life so we could belong to Him." Malik took out his phone and snapped a picture of himself with his grandparents. Grandma looked at it and smiled. "Now that's a masterpiece!" –Jared HottensteinHow About You?Have you ever looked in the mirror and seen something you didn't like? Maybe you think your nose is too big or your hair is too curly. The next time you find something about your body you wish you could change, remember that God made you, and He doesn't make mistakes. He made you in His image, and Jesus paid for you with His life. That determines your value--not what you look like. Today's Key Verse:God paid a very high price to make you his. So honor God with your body. (ERV) (1 Corinthians 6:20 )Today's Key Thought:You are God's masterpiece

Bible Reading: John 15:12-13"Have you ever heard people use colors to describe their feelings?" Miss Iverson asked her class. Carter waved his hand to make sure she saw it. "Like green with envy?" "How about purple with rage?" Mei said. "Or blue--like when they're sad.""All good examples," Miss Iverson said. "Now, people don't actually change color, but some animals do. A chameleon, for example, can quickly change its skin color in response to light, temperature, or other things in its environment. Other animals change color to blend in with their surroundings. They do that to defend themselves against enemies." That evening, Carter told his dad about his day. "People use different colors to describe how they feel, but some animals really do change their color. Isn't that cool?" "Sure is," said Dad. "Sounds like you had a good day.""Pretty good," replied Carter, but then he frowned. "Hari and I always play together at recess time, but today he acted like he didn't even know me! He was playing basketball with a bunch of guys when I came up, and he didn't invite me to play with them or even speak to me. I think he wanted them to think he was cool." Carter paused. "Hari was a chameleon friend today!""That's a good way to describe people who change their behavior toward others depending on the situation," said Dad. "But I don't think Hari is the only one who does that. Have you ever done something like that, Carter?""Well…maybe." Carter thought of how he treated his little sister differently when his friends came over. "Yeah. I'm not always nice to Layla in front of my friends because I want her to leave us alone.""Do you remember the verse you learned at church last week?" Dad asked.Carter nodded. "Proverbs 17:17. It says friends should love each other at all times. That kind of friend wouldn't be like a chameleon.""No," said Dad. "That verse describes the kind of friend Jesus is. He shows His love for us all the time, and He wants us to do the same. Trust Him to help you be consistent, loving friend--even when others aren't.""Okay." Carter sighed. "I'll remember that when I see Hari tomorrow." –Donna HuisjenHow About You?Have you ever had a chameleon friend? Have you been one yourself? It hurts when a friend changes the way they treat you based on where they are or who they're with. The Bible says a true friend loves at all times. That's how Jesus loves us, and He wants us to love others the same way. Be a consistent friend and treat others in the same loving way all the time.Today's Key Verse:A friend loves at all times. (Proverbs 17:17)Today's Key Thought:Be a consistent friend

Bible Reading: Psalm 32:1-5; Matthew 6:9-13Robin knelt at the foot of her bed and bowed her head to pray. It was hard to focus with her little sister, Jenny, screaming in the bathroom. "No! I don't want to brush my teeth!" Jenny cried.Mom poked her head into Robin's room, a tired smile on her face. "Robin, could Jenny and I pray with you? Maybe we can pray that Jenny will want to brush her teeth."Robin nodded, and her sister raced into the room and sat beside her, suddenly an angel. "Dear Jesus," Robin said. "Thank You for helping me with my math homework and healing Grandma from her fall. Please bless all my friends and family. Help us have a good night's sleep. Amen.""Amen!" Jenny exclaimed."Robin, did you forget something?" Mom asked."Oh, right. Jesus, please help Jenny brush her teeth without complaining. Amen."Mom smiled. "Just one more thing. Do you remember how Jesus taught us how to pray? In addition to thanking God and bringing our needs to Him, we also need to confess our sins."Robin sighed. "I just don't see the point in asking Jesus to forgive my sins every single day. I'll still make mistakes tomorrow.""Admitting our wrongs is about more than preventing future mistakes," Mom replied.Jenny tugged on Mom's sleeve. "Bedtime?" Robin laughed. "Nice try, Jenny. But you have to brush your teeth.""Why does she need to brush her teeth?" Mom asked Robin."Because her teeth are dirty and she might get cavities if she waits too long to clean them.""But her teeth will be dirty again tomorrow," Mom said. "And every day after that. Maybe the whole thing is pointless.""It's still healthier to brush her teeth daily," Robin said. Then she laughed. "You're not talking about brushing teeth, are you?""You caught me," Mom said. "Confessing our sins reminds us of our need for Jesus and helps us appreciate what He did to save us. Prayer is meant to bring us closer to Jesus in this way."Robin turned to Jenny. "If I confess my sins to Jesus, will you finally brush your teeth?"Jenny sighed dramatically. "Okay, fine." –Hannah ChungHow About You?Have you ever wondered why you should confess your sins to Jesus and ask for His forgiveness when you pray? Confessing means to recognize an action or attitude as sin and trust God for forgiveness, knowing that it is because of Jesus's sacrifice on the cross that we will be forgiven. Take a moment to confess any sins, trusting that God will forgive you each and every time.Today's Key Verse:If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.(NKJV) (1 John 1:9)Today's Key Thought:Confess your sins daily

Bible Reading: Psalm 51:1-9Landon's eyes widened in horror as his elbow knocked a bottle of paint off the table and it toppled to the floor. Blue paint spread in a growing blob across the kitchen. Landon jumped off his chair and quickly picked up the paint bottle. What am I going to do? he wondered. I've got to clean this up before Grandpa and Grandma see it.Landon rushed into the laundry room and grabbed some rags, then ran back to the kitchen and used them to soak up the paint on the floor. A large stain remained behind, so he got a bucket of soapy water and began scrubbing the paint spot. This isn't going to work! Landon thought frantically. He ran to the sink and began washing his hands. I can't get the paint off my hands either! He knew he would have to tell his grandparents what had happened.Grandpa frowned when he came in and saw the stain. "Well, I'm glad the floor isn't carpeted!" he said. "I have some special cleaner in the garage, and I think it will work on this." Grandpa went to get the cleaner, and soon all trace of the paint was gone."You know, Landon," said Grandpa as they washed their hands with the same cleaner they had used on the floor, "maybe we can both learn a good lesson from what just happened."Landon looked up at him. "Not to fool around with paint in the kitchen, right?"Grandpa smiled. "Well, yes, but I was thinking of an even more important lesson. You couldn't wash the paint stains away by yourself, could you?" Landon shook his head. "The Bible tells us we're all stained by sin, and no matter how hard we try, we can't clean it away ourselves," Grandpa said as he picked up a towel and dried his hands. "But when Jesus died and rose again, He made it possible for our sins to be washed away."Landon dried his clean hands too. "I needed you to use your special cleaner on the floor and on my hands," he said. "And I need Jesus to clean my heart, right?"Grandpa smiled and put his hand on Landon's shoulder. "That's exactly right."–Richard S. MaffeoHow About You?Have your sins been washed away? You can't clean your heart by being good or doing good things. It won't work. You need someone to clean it for you--Jesus Christ. He is the only one who can make your heart clean and free from the guilt of sin. Ask Him to clean your heart today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. (NKJV) (Psalm 51:7)Today's Key Thought:Jesus cleans sin away

Bible Reading: Psalm 139:1-10Malachi waited in the hallway, tapping his foot on the floor. "Almost time…"He didn't have to wait long. The door to his dad's office opened, and his dad appeared with his glasses pushed up on the top of his head. "Hi, bud," Dad said.Malachi grinned and started for the kitchen. He knew his dad would follow him.An hour later, Malachi positioned himself in the hallway again. This time his dad wouldn't just be getting water but also a snack. He was hoping he might share."Have you been standing out here all morning?" Dad asked as he stepped out of his office.Malachi shook his head with a grin. "What are you having today? Yogurt? A granola bar?"Dad gave him a sheepish smile. "How did you know I was feeling ready for a snack?"Malachi shrugged. Ever since his dad started working from home, he'd been paying attention and learning his routine.Malachi told his grandma about it that evening when she came to the house so his dad could go to a meeting. "I've memorized it all. He does everything at a certain time, even going outside to get a little fresh air."Grandma smiled. "It shows you care a lot about him for you to memorize his routine so you can see him when he takes little breaks from his work."Malachi nodded slowly. It did show that, didn't it? He wanted all the time he could get with his dad.Malachi frowned. "No one cares enough to memorize my routine. I don't think Dad even knows what time I get up.""Your dad might not, but someone does," Grandma said, scooping a homemade brownie onto a plate. "In Psalm 139, we read that God knows every move we make. Not only did He love us enough to send Jesus to save us from sin, but He cares about us enough to pay attention to our daily routines.""Really?" Malachi asked. "Well, that's cool."Grandma nodded. "Your dad loves and cares about you too, Malachi. If you're feeling lonely, maybe you should talk to him about spending more time together. But when your dad can't be with you, remember that God is. He knows everything about you and cares about your life. You can always talk to Him." –Emily AckerHow About You?Do you ever feel like no one really cares about you or pays a lot of attention to the things you do? If so, talk to a trusted adult about it so they can help. But know that God cares about you. He knows every detail of your life and wants to hear about everything you're going through. When it feels like no one cares, tell Him how you feel and trust Him to help you.Today's Key Verse:Behold, the eye of the Lord is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy. (NKJV) (Psalm 33:18)Today's Key Thought:God cares about you

Bible Reading: Psalm 27:1; Isaiah 41:10, 13"Mr. Robinson asked me to give my testimony at our youth group meeting Sunday night," Olivia told her mother as they walked along a path in the woods. "I'm going to tell him I just can't do it! I'm too scared!" She pointed toward a nearby hill. "There's the old fire lookout tower, Mom. Looks like somebody's on duty there today. Do you think they'll let us climb it? I've never done that.""Let's check it out," said Mom. When they walked over to the tower, Olivia hesitated. "I don't know," she said as she looked up at flight after flight of stairs leading to the top of the tower. "It looks scary! I don't really like being up so high.""I'll be behind you to make sure you don't fall," Mom assured her. So after they got permission, Olivia and her mother began climbing.The higher they climbed, the scarier it seemed, but Olivia could feel her mom's presence right behind her. And when they finally reached the top, Olivia was amazed as she looked out over the forest. Brilliant colors from the setting sun clung to clouds on the horizon. It made a spectacular canopy over the trees and hills below. "Wow, this is awesome!" said Olivia."Was it worth being scared?" Mom asked."It sure was," said Olivia. "Besides, even though I was scared, I knew you were with me.""You know," said Mom, "if you let fear keep you from giving your testimony, you might miss something as awesome as this view.""What do you mean?" asked Olivia."It's awesome to see what God does when we share how He's working in our lives with others," replied Mom."But what if I get so scared I can't even talk?" asked Olivia. "I'm not saying you'll breeze right through it, but just like I was with you and ready to help you on these stairs, God will be with you and help you speak about Jesus and how He's changed your life. Even if you mess up, He'll be there to support you and use what you say to bless others."Olivia hesitated, then nodded. "Okay," she said. "Even though it's scary, I'll trust God to help me." –Katherine R. AdamsHow About You?Is there something you believe God wants you to do? Someone you should reach out to or talk to about Jesus? If you feel afraid, remember that God will be with you and help you. He is working in your life so that you can point others to Jesus and help them know He loves them and gave His life to save them. Trust Him to help you serve Him and share His love with others in spite of your fear. Today's Key Verse:For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. (NLT) (2 Timothy 1:7)Today's Key Thought:Don't be afraid to serve God

Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 3:14-17Javier looked out the window. Rain rattled on the roof, and thunder jolted his eardrums. "Why is it so loud, Mom?" he asked."The storm is getting closer," replied Mom. "The reporter on TV said the basement is the safest place in storms like this, so let's go." Mom handed Javier a jug of water and a couple of flashlights. "You can carry these," she said. "I'll grab some snacks and our emergency pack."They hurried down the stairs and huddled in a corner of the basement as the wind shook the house. "The wind is so strong," said Javier nervously."Yes," said Mom, "but we're sheltered from it. And we have snacks and lights and other supplies to keep us comfortable." She handed him a granola bar."Thanks--peanut butter's my favorite!" Javier bit into the bar and chewed thoughtfully. "It's good to be prepared for storms like this, isn't it?" "Yes, it is," said Mom. "Did you know God wants us to also prepare for storms that may come along in life?""So we'll be ready for whatever happens to us?" asked Javier."Exactly. Can you think of ways we can be ready for whatever happens in our lives here on earth?""Well, we believed what the weather reporter said and came to the basement, and we also need to believe what God says and trust Jesus to save us from sin," said Javier."Good," said Mom. "That's most important. What else?""We brought lights," said Javier. "And the Bible is called a light, isn't it?""Yes," said Mom. "It shows us our need for Jesus and the sacrifice He made to save us, and it shines on our lives so we can follow the path God wants for us as His children. Any more ideas?""Uh…we brought food and water," said Javier. "Is that like the Bible too?"Mom nodded. "As we get to know Jesus through what He says in the Bible, He will nourish us spiritually and remind us to trust Him for strength when life brings hard times."Javier sat up straight. "Hey, Mom, it's not blowing so hard anymore! Shouldn't we pray and thank God for protecting us?""You bet!" said Mom, and together they bowed their heads. –Jaclyn S. MillerHow About You?Are you prepared for life's storms? Everyone experiences hard times in their lives, but you can be ready for them before they come. Do you trust in Jesus? That's most important. Jesus promises to always be with those who trust in Him and give us strength in tough times. Talk to Him and let Him encourage you and guide you through the light of His Word. When you face hard times, trust Him to help you weather the storm. Today's Key Verse:Using the Scriptures, those who serve God will be prepared and will have everything they need to do every good work. (ERV) (2 Timothy 3:17)Today's Key Thought:Prepare for life's storms

Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-32"It's hard to believe you're already old enough to be in middle school this year, Mateo," Mom said as they drove home after shopping for school clothes."Don't remind me," Mateo said miserably. "I wish I could stay at my old school forever.""Why?" asked Mom."Last year there weren't any older kids to pick on us," replied Mateo. "I liked being one of the oldest kids in the school.""Sounds like you have the middle school blues before you even get there," said Mom."Well, this year my class will be the youngest, so we'll have to deal with all the older kids," said Mateo.Mom pointed to a little girl on a tricycle crossing the street with her mother. "Remember your tricycle?" she asked. "Why don't you ride it anymore?""Ride my tricycle?" asked Mateo in surprise. "That would look weird!" He grinned at the thought. "I'm too big to ride that thing now.""Remember how you prayed every night for weeks that you could take the training wheels off your first two-wheel bike?" Mom asked as the traffic light turned green and they went through the busy intersection. Mateo laughed. "I remember that. I didn't want to be a baby forever.""It seems like you do now," said Mom. "At least when it comes to school."Mateo frowned. "School is different.""Somewhat different," Mom said as they turned into their driveway. "But in a way, going from your tricycle to a bike with training wheels to a bike without them is a lot like going from elementary to middle school to high school." Mateo sighed. "I guess.""And whenever you fell off your tricycle or bike, Dad and I were there to help," Mom reminded him. "We're still here to help you--we'll support you and pray for you every day. And you should pray too! Give your worries to Jesus, and trust Him to help you deal with new situations. Even though middle school seems scary, He promises to be with you and use this new phase of your life to help you grow in your relationship with Him. Trust Him to help you one day at a time, and enjoy today!" –Ruth McQuilkinHow About You?Do you worry about going to a new school or moving to a new place? Do you wonder how things will turn out even further down the road--like finding a job or getting married? It's good to pray about future events in your life, but don't worry about them. Trust Jesus to guide you through the years ahead and help you through whatever changes you face. Then enjoy life with Him today! Today's Key Verse:Do not worry about tomorrow. (Matthew 6:34)Today's Key Thought:Give worries to Jesus and enjoy today

Bible Reading: Proverbs 18:24; Philippians 2:3-8Luke sat in the pew and stared off into space as his parents talked to some friends nearby. His stomach growled loudly, and he hoped his family would leave soon."What are you doing sitting here by yourself?"Luke looked up as Mr. Bryant sat down in the pew in front of him. "Nothing," Luke said with a smile. He liked talking to Mr. Bryant."Why don't you go talk to someone?" Mr. Bryant asked.Luke shrugged. "I don't have any friends here," he said."What do you mean you don't have friends?" Mr. Bryant looked around the church. "I bet the kids over there are your age." He pointed to someone up front. "And I know he's your age!"Luke looked and saw that Mr. Bryant was pointing to his grandson standing by the piano. "It's just--it's hard to know what to say to other kids," he told Mr. Bryant. "I don't mind being by myself."Mr. Bryant cleared his throat. "Remember when you first started coming to church here with your family? I totally ignored you, and that's how we became friends, right?"Luke laughed. "No! You were one of the first people to say hello, and we talk all the time now."Mr. Bryant nodded and leaned his arm on top of the pew. "Listen, Luke. You want friends, don't you?" Luke nodded. "Well," Mr. Bryant said, "to have friends, you have to be friendly and take an interest in others. You have to go right up and introduce yourself, like I did when I first met you.""But it's hard," Luke said."So's math," said Mr. Bryant with a grin. "But you don't have to do it on your own. Jesus is the greatest Friend there is--He became one of us and died to save us so we could be His friends forever! With His help, I think you'll make one of those friends the Bible talks about--one that sticks closer than a brother."Luke thought about that and smiled. "I guess that'd be cool."Mr. Bryant leaned over and gave Luke a friendly slap on the shoulder. "Now you're talking." He looked at his watch and got up. "See you later, Luke." He jerked his thumb toward his grandson. "Now go say hello." –Katlyn TraxlerHow About You?Do you need a friend? Trying to make friends can be scary, but it gets easier the more you practice. Trust Jesus to help you be the kind of friend He is--one who cares about others and takes an interest in their lives. Ask Him to give you the courage to reach out to those around you and be friendly. Just saying hello to someone new could be the beginning of a lifelong friendship. Today's Key Verse:A man who has friends must himself be friendly, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother. (NKJV) (Proverbs 18:24 )Today's Key Thought:Be a friend

Bible Reading: Psalm 130:5-7It felt like forever before it was Daisy's turn to ride the swinging ship. She watched the line slowly move forward each time a new group got on the ride. Finally, it was her turn!"Ready?" Dad grinned."More than ready!" Daisy hurried to find a seat.The ride was just as fun as she expected, and she screamed each time it went down. Her stomach flip-flopped a little, but she still loved it."Can we go again?" Daisy asked as soon as they were finished.Dad pointed toward the line. "It's still long.""I don't mind," Daisy said. Now that she knew how fun the ride was, she could wait forever."You're sure you wouldn't rather ride something else?" Dad asked, pointing toward a shorter line. Daisy quickly shook her head. Dad smiled and led her to the end of the long line. "Some things are worth waiting for, huh?""Yeah," Daisy said.Dad put his hand on her shoulder. "As you get older, you'll realize other things are worth waiting for too. Sometimes we have to be patient to get something good.""Like a ride on a swinging ship?" Daisy asked."And things even better than that," Dad said as they slowly moved forward in line. "God has good plans for you, Daisy. He loves you so much He sent Jesus to save you from sin and give you eternal life! You can trust Him to bring good things into your life at the right time. Be patient as you wait for Him to show you what they are.""What kind of things?" asked Daisy."Well, for example, it took a while for me to figure out God was calling me to be a pastor. Waiting for Him to lead me where He wanted me to go wasn't easy, but it helped me grow in my relationship with Jesus." Dad smiled. "You can trust God to lead you in what's best for your life too."Daisy nodded. The line didn't seem so bad when her dad was talking, and she knew how much fun she was going to have at the end. She was glad she could trust God to help her be patient and wait for the good things He had planned for her too. –Bethany AckerHow About You?Do you ever get impatient? Think of something you know is worth waiting for--like a fun ride or cookies baking in the oven. The good things God has planned for you are worth the wait too. He loves you so much that Jesus died and rose again to save you, and He has good plans for you. Be patient as you wait for Him to show them to you.Today's Key Verse:"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (NIV) (Jeremiah 29:11)Today's Key Thought:Wait patiently for God's plan

Bible Reading: Proverbs 6:20-23; 1 John 1:6-7"Whoo, whoo, whoooo!" Kaylee heard the soft hoot of an owl floating through the still night air as she and her dad walked along a narrow path on their way to see the moon rise over the lake. An owl! she thought. She shined her flashlight toward the treetops, hoping to get a glimpse of the bird, but she couldn't see anything. As she looked straight up and searched the branches, her foot caught on a root sticking up from the path, and she fell down hard."Kaylee, are you all right?" Dad hurried to help her up. "What happened?""I tripped on a root," said Kaylee, getting up and brushing herself off. "I was pointing my flashlight up at the trees to see if I could find the owl. I guess I should have kept my light on the path.""Yeah, I guess so," said Dad with a smile. They continued their walk and soon reached the beach. The lake was calm and glassy, and a beautiful silver path led to the moon hanging low over the dark water. They stood and enjoyed the scene in silence for a while. "Well, we'd better head back," Dad finally said. "Be sure to keep your light on the path this time.""I will!" Kaylee assured him. "I've learned my lesson. That owl can hoot all he wants--I'm gonna watch where I'm going!""I've been thinking about a verse in Psalms--one that says God's Word is a light for our path," Dad said as they started back. "If we forget to shine the light of God's Word on our lives, it can cause us to trip and fall in our walk with Jesus.""That would be worse than the fall I took, wouldn't it?" said Kaylee. Dad nodded. "Jesus is our light in this dark world--He saved us and promises us eternal life with Him. That's why we need to let His truth light our way and guide us in how we live. And when we trip and fall into sin, the Bible says Jesus will always forgive us when we confess our wrongs."Kaylee smiled. "I'll listen to what God says in the Bible so His light will shine on my path--just like this flashlight!" –Judith K. BoogaartHow About You?Do you take time to read your Bible? Do you listen when others teach about it and ask them to explain things you don't understand? As you study God's Word in your walk with Jesus, it will remind you that you belong to Him and show you how He wants you to turn from sin and love others. Keep reading and listening to what He says in the Bible so His light can shine on the path of your life. Today's Key Verse:Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:105)Today's Key Thought:Let God's truth light your way

Bible Reading: Isaiah 41:8-10; John 14:16-17Evelyn peeked through the blinds of her bedroom window at the SOLD! sign on her front lawn. She turned back to the sea of boxes surrounding her as a tear slipped from her eye and landed with a wet splat on the cardboard.I can't decide if I want my butterfly pillow at Mom's apartment or Dad's house, she thought. With a big sigh, she threw it into the box marked Mom along with some other toys and books.Evelyn's mom knocked on her door. "Evelyn, is everything okay in there? You need to be finished packing by lunchtime."When Evelyn didn't answer, Mom opened the door and found her silently crying over the open box. "What is it?" Mom asked, wrapping her tightly in a hug."I can't decide if I want my butterfly pillow at your apartment or Dad's house. I need it to fall asleep," Evelyn said, wiping her eyes. "Why do we have to sell our house and move into two separate places? I want my pillow with me every night! And I want you and Dad with me every night too.""I'm so sorry our divorce has hurt you so badly, Evelyn," Mom said, rubbing her arm. "We both love you very much, even when we're not with you. And the good news is you can take your pillow to Dad's house and then bring it back to my apartment. Your pillow can go everywhere with you. You never have to leave it behind." Mom picked up Evelyn's Bible from the open cardboard box. "Just like God promised us in the Bible that He would never leave us. When you trusted in Jesus, God gave you the Holy Spirit to help you, comfort you, and guide you. He is always with you, Evelyn, even when Dad and I are not."Mom gently placed Evelyn's butterfly pillow and Bible into her backpack. "How about we keep these two special things in your bag so they're easy to take back and forth between my apartment and Dad's house?"Evelyn glanced out the window again at the sign in her yard. "Okay," she said. "I guess I can give it a try." –Nicole KraayenbrinkHow About You?Have you experienced the pain and feelings of abandonment that divorce brings? Maybe your own parents are divorced, or an aunt and uncle, or perhaps a friend's mom and dad. Even when it feels like someone in your life has left you behind, remember that God will never leave you. He cares about you and will always be with you wherever you are. Today's Key Verse:The Lord your God is the one who will go with you; he will not leave you or abandon you. (CSB) (Deuteronomy 31:6)Today's Key Thought:God will never leave you

Bible Reading: Matthew 2:1-2; Luke 2:1-16"Visit our store and enjoy Christmas every day of the year!" Georgia read the billboard out loud as she and her family traveled home from a weeklong vacation. "Cool!" she said. "That's in the town at the next exit, isn't it? Can we stop at that store?"Dad shrugged. "Why not? We could use a break from driving. Watch for signs so we'll know where to turn."They found the store, and everyone smiled when they heard "Jingle Bells" playing over the loudspeaker as they walked in. The store was filled with all kinds of Christmas decorations--ornaments, trees, twinkling lights, and wreaths. In one corner, a woman was handing out decorated Christmas cookies.As Georgia and her parents ate their cookies, they wandered over to a large manger scene. The animals looked so real, Georgia could almost imagine she was in Bethlehem. As she thought about the events of that night long ago, she imagined Mary putting baby Jesus in a manger with all the sounds and smells of animals around them. She thought about the angels singing, the shepherds running to the stable to see Jesus, and the wise men traveling from far away to worship the new King."Come on, Georgia," said Mom, interrupting her daydreams. "Time to be on our way."Georgia continued thinking about the manger scene on the drive home. "I wish we could celebrate Christmas all year long like they do at that store," she said. "We can!" said Dad. "What is Christmas, Georgia?""It's the time when we remember Jesus being born," Georgia replied."Exactly!" said Dad. "The night God sent His Son to earth as one of us so He could save us from sin. Don't you think that's something we should celebrate all year long?""Well, sure," said Georgia. "We should thank God every day for sending Jesus, shouldn't we?" She grinned. "So can we put up the Christmas tree when we get home?"Mom laughed and shook her head. "We'll save that for December," she said. "We can remember God's gift of Jesus and the meaning of Christmas without the tree." –Linda WeddleHow About You?Are you thankful every day for God's amazing gift? He sent His Son, Jesus, to earth as a human being to take the punishment for your sin so you could have eternal life with Him. There's no better gift than that! Don't wait until December to thank God for His great gift. Jesus is the reason to celebrate Christmas all year long! Today's Key Verse:Thanks be to God for His indescribable gift! (NKJV) (2 Corinthians 9:15)Today's Key Thought:Think of God's gift all year long

Bible Reading: Exodus 20:3-17; Galatians 3:19-22Graham set a large birthday present on his knees and shut the car door. Mom fastened her seat belt and turned to Graham. "You don't have your seat belt on.""I can't reach it while I'm holding this present," said Graham. "It's only two blocks to Cameron's house, so I don't need it anyway.""Oh yes, you do! A lot of accidents happen close to home, and a seat belt could save your life. Here, let me help you." Mom reached over and buckled his seat belt. "There. Now we can go." She started the car. "Seat belts were put in cars to protect us. And don't forget--the law says we have to use them.""The law," repeated Graham. "That sounds like something we talked about in church--God's law. God gave us rules like the Ten Commandments to protect us and help us live good lives, but no one could obey them, so that's why Jesus had to die for us. Or something like that--I didn't understand all of it." Just then a ball bounced into the street in front of them. Mom hit the brakes and the car screeched to a stop--inches away from a little boy who had dashed after the ball. Graham lurched forward, but his seat belt tightened, holding him back. The little boy grabbed the ball and ran back into his yard."If you hadn't made me wear my seat belt, I would have smashed right into the dashboard!" said Graham.Mom nodded and started driving again. "Good thing you obeyed the law and had your seat belt on. But were you able to buckle it yourself?""No," said Graham. "I was holding Cameron's present, so you had to buckle it for me.""And that's what Jesus does for us," said Mom. "Sin is like that present you're holding--it makes us unable to obey God's law. None of us is good enough to have eternal life with God. That's why Jesus had to pay for our sin on the cross. When we trust in Him, He buckles His goodness around us like a seat belt and saves us!""Oh--I get it now!" Graham smiled. "Thanks for buckling my seat belt, Mom--you saved me! And I'm thankful Jesus saved me too." –Eunice C. MatchettHow About You?Do you always wear your seat belt? Seat belts save lives--that's why a lot of places have laws that require you to use them. Jesus saves lives too. Because of sin, none of us can obey God's law, so Jesus lived a perfect life and died to take our punishment. Trust Him to save you and give you His goodness so you can live with Him forever. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:Adam did not obey God, and many people become sinners through him. Christ obeyed God and makes many people right with Himself. (NLV) (Romans 5:19)Today's Key Thought:Jesus saves lives

Bible Reading: Psalm 56:3-4, 8-11Nico grinned as his sister lay back on her inflatable raft. "I'm going to pop your float," he told her. "You'll sink."Maya smiled, unfazed. "My life jacket will hold me up.""What if I take the life jacket?" Nico asked.Maya shrugged. "It still won't matter. This is the shallow end, and the water only reaches up to my waist.""Well then, maybe I'll just pick you up and dunk you under," said Nico.Maya grinned and pointed to Mom sitting at the side of the pool. "With Mom there, I'll be just fine."A while later, Mom's phone rang. "Time to go inside, kids," she said after she hung up. "I need to go pick Dad up from work. He just called to say he feels really sick, so I'm going to take him to the emergency room."Maya and Nico gave each other worried looks. "Okay, Mom," Nico said.Mom was gone quite a while, and when she returned home, Dad wasn't with her. "What's wrong with Dad?" asked Maya anxiously."We don't know for sure yet, but they admitted him as a patient at the hospital," replied Mom. "Hopefully it's nothing serious."Nico felt nervous too. "What if it is really serious?" he asked. "Aren't you scared, Mom?""Of course I am," said Mom. "But I'm thankful to know that God is in control and no matter what happens, Dad--and each of us--will be okay because we're in God's hands. We'll pray for Dad, and we need to trust God to take care of him.""But what if something's really wrong with Dad?" asked Nico. "How could that ever be okay?" "Earlier today I heard you teasing your sister in the pool," Mom told him. "But Maya knew that no matter what you did, she'd be okay because I was there and would take care of her. Well, we can have absolute confidence that no matter what happens, we'll be okay because Jesus died and rose again to save us and give us eternal life. He will always be with us and take care of us--even if the worst were to happen. We're safe in His hands." –Nance E. KeyesHow About You?Has something happened that makes you feel sad or scared? Is someone you love sick? Has a parent lost a job? Did your parents get divorced? Whatever your troubles are, Jesus knows all about them. He loves you so much that He gave His life to save you, and He's right there with you. Trust Him to watch over you, no matter what happens.Today's Key Verse:Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. (NKJV) (Psalm 56:3)Today's Key Thought:Trust Jesus to care for you

Bible Reading: Psalm 32:1-5"Ouch!" cried Wren as she climbed into the tree house her dad was building. Dad stopped hammering and raised his brow. "I hurt my finger," Wren said. "Let me take a look." Dad put his hammer down and studied her finger. "You've got a sliver, but don't worry, I'm an expert sliver remover! Just as soon as I'm finished here, I'll take it out." Wren squirmed. "It's okay. It's not that big. I'll just leave it." "Not a good idea," said Dad, digging through his toolbox. He frowned. "That's strange. My tape measure isn't in here. Well, I can work without it for now." "Tape measure?" Wren asked, suddenly feeling guilty. And as the afternoon wore on, she felt more and more guilty. She knew what had happened to the tape measure."Dad, this sliver really hurts," Wren said that evening. "I think I need help from an expert sliver remover after all." "Oh, that's right--I forgot about your sliver!" Dad got out the tweezers. "Slivers don't go away on their own." Wren winced as he pricked her skin. "There," Dad said. "It's out." Wren looked at the tiny fleck Dad was holding. "I can't believe something that small could hurt so bad," she said. "This little sliver reminds me of what we call 'little' sins," said Dad. "We think they don't really amount to much and shouldn't hurt anybody. But if we're sensitive to how Jesus wants us to love others, they cause us grief until we confess them and get them removed. We could call them sin slivers."Wren sighed. "Dad, I…" She hesitated. "I need another sliver removed--a sin sliver that's been bothering me all day. I took your tape measure. I know I'm not supposed to go in your toolbox, but I used it to take measurements for a treasure map, and then I lost it in the woods. I'm sorry. I should have told you right away." "So that's where it went!" said Dad. "Well, I'll have to get another tape measure, but at least I won't be hunting for that one anymore. I'm glad you told me, and I forgive you. Even better--Jesus promises to forgive the sins we confess too." –Jody HedlundHow About You?Is there a nagging sin you need to confess? Maybe you fibbed to your parents or bent the rules to win a game. It may not have seemed like a big deal at the time, but any sin, no matter how big or small it seems, hurts both you and others. Don't wait any longer. Confess your sin to Jesus and to anyone else you've sinned against and ask for forgiveness.Today's Key Verse:People who conceal their sins will not prosper, but if they confess and turn from them, they will receive mercy. (NLT) (Proverbs 28:13)Today's Key Thought:All sin hurts you--confess it

Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:8-20The girls in Cabin 9 were walking down the path to the campfire at Bible camp when Gabby pointed up at the sky. "Look at the moon tonight! Yesterday there was no moonlight at all in the sky, but today there is a bright sliver of light."Her counselor, Jami, nodded. "It has started to reflect the sun's light, and tomorrow it will reflect more light and keep growing until it's a full moon." They reached the campfire and found their seats. They sang silly songs and laughed as they roasted marshmallows, then listened as the camp director told them about Jesus.A warm feeling filled Gabby as she listened to the director speak. She suddenly knew that she wanted to trust in Jesus. She moved a little closer to Jami and asked her to pray with her to ask Jesus to forgive her for her sins. Jami gave her a hug as they knelt down to pray.Later that night, as they walked back to the cabin, Jami smiled and pointed up at the moon. "Gabby, now that you trust in Jesus, your faith is like that moon. Just as the moon reflects the sun's light, our lives reflect the love of Jesus. Yesterday, like the moon, you had no light, but today God's love and goodness have started to shine through you."Gabby stared up at the moon. "I'm so excited to have Jesus in my life, but what do I do when I get home?" she asked. "As you grow in your relationship with Jesus, His light will grow inside you," said Jami. "Just as a crescent moon grows into a bright full moon, you'll begin to reflect Him more and more. When you get home, keep getting to know Jesus better and learning more about Him. Go to church and spend time with other Christians, and read your Bible and pray every day. As your faith and understanding grow, you'll become more like Jesus and reflect more of His light, just like that moon." Gabby pondered Jami's words. "Wow," she said. "I can't wait to get to know Jesus even better! And now that I know Him, I know He'll be with me and help me shine every day." –Bethany Den BoerHow About You?Have you recently decided to trust in Jesus? Do you wonder what you're supposed to do now? Now that your sins are forgiven and you belong to Jesus, He will make His light inside you grow. As you grow in your relationship with Him, He will help you follow Him in all you do, and others will be able to see His light shining in your life.Today's Key Verse:But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. (2 Peter 3:18 )Today's Key Thought:Keep growing in your faith

Bible Reading: Romans 12:6-8"I heard the kids' choir at church is holding auditions next week," Mom said as Milo set the table for dinner. "Why don't you try out? I know how much you love to sing, and they could sure use you." Milo shrugged. "I'm sure those kids are way better than me, so why bother? I'll just stick to singing in the shower." "I found out more about badgers!" Anna announced when they sat down to dinner. "Have you ever heard of a honey badger?" "No, but I'm guessing it's called a honey badger because it likes honey," said Milo."Right!" said Anna. "The honey badger has a bird friend called a honeyguide. When the honeyguide finds a beehive full of honey, it leads the way to it. Then the honey badger uses its claws to break open the hive and eat the honey.""Does the honeyguide get some of the honey too?" asked Milo. Anna shook her head. "Well, that doesn't seem fair!" said Milo. "The honey badger should share the honey.""But the honeyguide doesn't want the honey," said Anna. "It wants the beeswax and the bees' eggs and larvae in the honeycomb, and that's what the honey badger leaves behind.""Interesting," said Dad. "So each one helps the other, and by helping each other they both benefit.""You know, we're supposed to do the same thing as Christians," said Mom. "Just like the bird is able to locate honey and the honey badger has claws to open the hive, God has blessed us with different talents and abilities. He wants us to use them to help others and point them to Jesus. When we keep our gifts to ourselves instead of sharing them with others, everyone misses out--both us and the people who would have benefited from them." Milo sighed. "You're talking about me trying out for the kids' choir, aren't you?" He put down his fork. "Okay, maybe I'll give it a try--I wouldn't want to keep a gift God gave me all to myself when I could use it to help others. I might make new friends and learn more about music too. That sounds better than just singing in the shower!" –Tanya FerdinanduszHow About You?What special talents, skills, or abilities has God given you? Are you using them to help others and point them to Jesus--or are you keeping them all to yourself? God gave you those gifts so you could use them to bless others--and they have gifts that you'll benefit from too! Share your gifts so they can help others and bring glory to God.Today's Key Verse:Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. (NIV) (1 Peter 4:10)Today's Key Thought:Use your gifts to help others

Bible Reading: Romans 12:9-18"What are you reading about?" asked Anna as she peered over her brother's shoulder to see what was on his computer screen. "Oh, look at that little animal! He's so cute!""Stop saying everything is cute!" said Milo. "That's a badger, and badgers are interesting, not cute!"Anna sniffed. "Well, I think that badger is cute. What do you find so interesting about it?""Well, this article says that when badgers make their homes underground, they dig dens that are interconnected by a whole maze of burrows and passages. I think that's pretty cool!""That is cool," said Anna. "That means they can visit each other without having to go above ground."Milo nodded. "And it says badgers are nocturnal animals, which means--""I know what it means," said Anna. "It means they're awake at night and sleep during the day.""Right. And listen to this. 'If a badger is away from home at daybreak, he may stay and rest with another badger family for a while before heading back to his own den.' They must be hospitable animals.""Hospitable? What does that mean?" asked Anna."You know--making guests feel comfortable and at home," said Milo. "Oh! Like how we took care of the missionaries who stayed with us last month." Anna laughed. "Maybe the traveling badgers are missionary badgers!""Listen to this," said Milo. "Badgers sometimes even allow a fox to stay in their den!" "Hmm," said Anna. "I can't think of anything to compare that to!""I can," said Milo. "It might be like inviting someone you don't know very well to come over and play--like those new kids who just moved in down the street." Milo glanced out the window thoughtfully. "In my class at church, we talked about how being kind and welcoming to others shows them Jesus's love. He welcomed us into His family when we were outsiders, and He wants us to welcome others and help them feel at home. We even learned a verse that says to practice hospitality.""Let's ask Mom if we can invite the new kids over," said Anna. She grinned and pointed toward the TV room. "I'm sure we can make them feel at home in our den!" –Tanya FerdinanduszHow About You?Are you hospitable? Do you make others feel welcome--whether they're your friends or someone you don't know well? The Bible tells Christians to be hospitable and welcoming to others--even those we don't know--because Jesus welcomed us when we didn't know Him. Share His love with others by making everyone feel welcome at your home, school, church, or wherever you are. Today's Key Verse:Always be eager to practice hospitality. (NLT) (Romans 12:13)Today's Key Thought:Practice hospitality

Rob Liefeld returns to the CBH podcast talking about Youngblood hitting its stride, Extreme Studios becomes a hothouse of new series: Brigade, Bloodstrike, and nearly two dozen more, all while he mentors rising talents Dan Fraga, Norm Rapmund and more. Mounting costs inside Image spark sharp discussions with Jim Lee, Todd McFarlane, and Mark Silvestri, nudging Liefeld to open Maximum Press for experiments like Battlestar Galactica and Avengelyne. He talks about his exit from Image and his stint on Marvel's Heroes  Reborn, where his Captain America made headlines amidst Marvel's bankruptcy. Recharged, he launches Awesome Comics, partners with Alan Moore for an Award‑winning Supreme, and joins Golden Age legend Joe Simon to shield Fighting American in court. A family walk through Greek ruins now feeds the mythic spark in Cable, Deadpool, and their Fortnite cameos. Royalties still arrive, proof that owning your stories keeps the dream alive, which is a lesson his friend Robert Kirkman echoes with Walking Dead and Invincible. #RobLiefeld #Youngblood #ExtremeStudios #ImageComics #CreatorRights #HeroesReborn #CaptainAmerica #MaximumPress #AlanMoore #Deadpool Support the show

Bible Reading: Matthew 14:13-21; Ephesians 2:1-7When Emma came into the living room, tears were falling from Mom's eyes onto her lap. Dad sat next to her with a hand on her shoulder. "It's Grandma," he told Emma. "She died in the hospital this morning." Emma stared out the window. With Grandma gone, who'd come visit every month? Who'd cook her favorite foods, or go on bike rides and picnics with her?A few days later Mom, Dad, and Emma made the long drive to the funeral. Emma tried to listen during the service. The pastor said, "Ephesians 2:6-7 tells us that God raises us up with Jesus--He gives us spiritual life as well as the promise of physical resurrection when He comes again--so that we will forever show 'the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us in Christ Jesus.'"After the service Mom didn't seem as sad while she visited with her sisters. Emma felt like something was missing, and her heart ached.On their drive home, they stopped at a restaurant. Emma saw something strange on the menu. She asked, "What do they mean by 'bottomless cup of coffee?' That sounds messy." Dad laughed a little, and even Mom smiled. "That means they'll keep filling your cup as long as you want more coffee," Dad explained.Mom added, "It's like when Jesus fed the five thousand. He fed people until they were full. Then He gave even more. There's no end to how much He gives us and does for us."Dad said, "It's that way for your grandma now. God will spend all eternity showing kindness to her in heaven.""But what about us, Dad? I don't feel full. I feel kind of empty.""We lost a great treasure in Grandma, and that can make us feel poor instead of rich. But God will never run out of mercy and kindness. He's rich in both of those--and generous."Mom nodded. "God gave us the greatest treasure of all when He gave His Son, Jesus, to die on the cross to save us so we could be with Him now and forever. Jesus promises to be with us when we feel sad and give us comfort and peace."Emma smiled. "It's like a bottomless cup of His love." –Laura RoeslerHow About You?Do you miss someone who was dear to you? The word dear means valuable, such as treasure or riches. When you lose someone, it can make you feel poor instead of rich. But God is rich in mercy. He knows how to care for those who are dear to us, and He knows how to comfort us whenever we miss them. Trust Him to show you the riches of His kindness and mercy as you grieve.Today's Key Verse:The same Lord over all is rich to all who call upon Him. (NKJV) (Romans 10:12)Today's Key Thought:God's mercy and kindness are endless

Bible Reading: Matthew 19:26; Luke 6:45; James 3:7-10"Mom," said Noah, "Rexy had an accident on the welcome mat again."Mom made her way to the front door and rubbed her forehead. "I don't know what to do with that dog. He chews up everything in the house. He barks at the garbage truck. He digs under the fence. He's out of control. I don't think anyone can tame that tiny Chihuahua. Would one of you boys please take Rexy for a walk?""It's Noah's turn." Micah tossed the leash to his brother."My turn? I just gave him a bath last night!""That wasn't a bath. You just sprayed some of Dad's cologne on him!""Well, you should use some of that cologne because you smell worse than the dog!" Mom sighed. "Don't you boys ever get tired of arguing? I think Rexy acts so crazy because he's watching how you two act." "Oh, come on, Mom. We don't bark at the mailman," Noah said."Yeah," said Micah, "and it's not like we punch each other or anything." "You punch each other with words. The way you talk to each other is just as out of control as Rexy. The Bible says people are able to tame all kinds of animals, but no one can tame the tongue.""So if the Bible is saying we have a better chance of taming Rexy than controlling what we say, why even try?" asked Noah."Because taming our tongues is important," said Mom. "They may be small things, but they can cause huge destruction."Micah laughed. "That sounds a lot like Rexy!" "The Bible also says that the words we speak come from our hearts," Mom continued. "If we need to change our words, it means our hearts need to change. And we can't change them ourselves." Noah thought about that. "You mean Jesus has to help us, right?" "Right," said Mom. "Only He can change your heart and help you love others the way He does. Taming the tongue is only possible with Him." Mom walked over to the puddle on the welcome mat and sighed. "At this point, I think God's the only one who can change Rexy as well." Micah smiled. "Well, the Bible does say that with God, all things are pawsible!" –Jared HottensteinHow About You?Have you ever been hurt by someone's words? Have you ever hurt someone by what you said to them? Words are powerful things, and it's important to use them to build others up, not tear them down. The next time you want to say something hurtful, remember how much Jesus loves that person. Then trust Him to change your heart and help you love them too.Today's Key Verse:Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. (NIV) (James 3:10)Today's Key Thought:Jesus changes hearts

Bible Reading: Psalm 89:8, 11-13Journey and Elise ran to the garage where their dad was working. "Mom says we're going to have a picnic at the park!" said Journey. "Can we go soon?""We want to have time to play on the swings before we eat!" added Elise."Okay," said Dad. "But before we go, I need to wash the car.""Why bother?" asked Elise. "It's old.""You're right. It is old," Dad replied. "But it's the only car we have--and God calls us to take care of everything we've been given. You can help. Then it will get done quicker."The girls reluctantly got busy. Journey mixed soap into a bucket of water while Elise got out sponges and Dad pulled out the hose. They washed and polished the car until it shone brightly. "There!" Dad said. "It looks almost as good as new."Soon they were on their way. At the park, Dad pushed Journey and Elise on the swings, and the girls also had fun on the slides and other playground equipment. Then Mom called for them to come and eat."It's so beautiful here," Mom said as they ate. "The trees and sky and flowers are so pretty."When they had finished eating, Journey and Elise carried the trash to a garbage can. "Thanks, girls," Dad said when they got back. "Though I see some of the stuff fell on the ground when you were walking over and you left it. That's no way to treat this old planet! Go back and pick it up.""Old planet?" asked Journey. Dad nodded. "Just like our old car, this old planet is the only one we have to live on, and God wants us to take good care of it. This may be an old planet, but it's also a wonderful, amazing, beautiful planet--and Jesus promises to make it new again one day when He comes back to get rid of sin forever and restore all creation to the way He intended it to be. Until then, we need to be good stewards and take care of the planet He created for us.""Okay, Dad," Elise said, and the girls hurried back to pick up their trash. –Daryl B. KnauerHow About You?Do you do all you can to take care of this old planet? God gave you this beautiful world to be your earthly home, and He wants you to do your part in keeping it that way. Caring for things in nature, recycling, and putting trash in garbage cans are all ways you can help take care of the earth. Think of some other simple things you can do to help keep God's creation clean and beautiful.Today's Key Verse:The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it. (NIV) (Psalm 24:1)Today's Key Thought:Take care of God's earth

Bible Reading: Galatians 5:22-26"Just do it," coaxed Henry. "She'll never know it was you." Henry was trying to get his classmate Niam to put a whoopee cushion on their teacher's chair. "Come on, it will be hilarious!""Okay," said Niam. But when Mrs. Mills sat down and her face turned red, it didn't seem so funny after all.Later that day, Henry talked some classmates into putting petroleum jelly on all the door knobs in the classroom. But when Mrs. Mills couldn't open the door for recess, she frowned and announced they would be staying inside.At the end of the day, Henry was instructed to go to the principal's office instead of the bus line. When he arrived, both of his parents were there. They didn't look happy. No one spoke on the drive home. When they pulled into the driveway, Dad turned off the engine and told Henry to go get a can of white paint. Henry didn't know what Dad was up to, but he did as he was told. "Let's open this up and see how much we have," said Dad. They pried off the rusty lid and peered inside. It looked okay. "We have to stir it," said Dad. "It's been sitting a while."As Henry stirred vigorously, chunks of old, rubbery paint and rust began dotting the surface. The harder he stirred, the worse it got. "All this stirring is making it worse!" Henry exclaimed."When you stir old paint, it loosens all the impurities in the can," Dad explained. "Kind of like how you've been stirring things up at school."Henry stopped stirring the paint and sighed. "I was just trying to have some fun.""Yes, but at the expense of others. When you ask your classmates to do things that embarrass or hurt others, you're encouraging them to sin. The Bible tells us to stir up love and good works, but you can't do that by only thinking of yourself--just like you can't stir up good paint from this old can. You need to depend on Jesus to help you stir up love and encourage others to do good things instead." "I guess you're right." Henry took the stirring stick out of the can. "I'll be more careful about what I stir up." –Laura KuehnHow About You?Do you like to stir things up? There's nothing wrong with having fun, but it can't be at the cost of upsetting a friend or teacher or getting other people in trouble. If you're someone who can talk others into doing things, use that gift for good! Encourage those around you to honor God and others through love and good deeds.Today's Key Verse:And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works. (NKJV) (Hebrews 10:24)Today's Key Thought:Encourage others to do good

Bible Reading: Psalms 3:1-6; 42:8; 63:6Lara ran so hard it hurt. She glanced over her shoulder. The lion was still chasing her and getting closer. Suddenly, she tripped and fell flat on her face! A huge roar echoed, and she could almost feel the lion's hot breath on her neck. She screamed--then woke up in her own bed. All the covers were kicked off, and her forehead was sweaty.Lara lay still, trying to calm her beating heart and go back to sleep. But every time she closed her eyes, she saw the lion chasing her. Finally, she got out of bed and tiptoed to her mom's room. "Mom," she whispered, "I had another nightmare, and I'm afraid to go to sleep." Mom got up, and together they went back to Lara's room."I know the dream wasn't real, Mom, but it was so scary!" Lara said after Mom tucked her back in bed. "How can I get it out of my mind?"Mom switched on the lamp and got Lara's Bible out of a drawer. "God's Word can help with your nightmares," she said as she turned the pages. "The book of Psalms is a good place to find verses of comfort when we feel afraid. Let's read Psalm 118:6. Here, read it out loud for me."Taking the Bible, Lara read, "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?" She gave her mother a little smile. "The last part could say, 'What can mere nightmares do to me?' Is it okay to read it like that?"Mom nodded. "That will remind you that your nightmares can't hurt you, and that Jesus is always there to comfort you."Lara put a bookmark between the pages to save the place. "I'll read this whenever I have a nightmare. Then I won't have to get up and find you.""Great idea," said Mom, returning the Bible to the drawer. "It's short, and you could even memorize it. That way you can repeat it to yourself whenever something scares you." She smiled. "But you can still come and get me if you feel afraid."After Mom kissed her goodnight, Lara snuggled down deep into the covers and whispered, "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid." –Faith AlessioHow About You?Do you have nightmares or find it hard to go to sleep? Remember that if you know Jesus as your Savior, He is with you all the time. Like King David in today's Bible reading, you can meditate--or think--about God when you're awake at night. If you think about the presence and power of God, your fears will look much smaller. You can have peace knowing He is with you.Today's Key Verse:In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. (NIV) (Psalm 4:8)Today's Key Thought:God is with you

Bible Reading: Genesis 50:19-20; Romans 5:1-5"Sofia, chore time! Today we're going to--what's wrong?" Aunt Lori set down the buckets she was holding and gently put her hands on Sofia's shoulders. "Aren't you having a nice time on the farm?"Sofia tried to smile. "I just wish Mom and Dad were here with me." Her throat felt tight. She buried her face in her aunt's denim shirt, trying to control her tears."Oh, honey. I'm so sorry." Aunt Lori hugged her niece tight, remembering when her own parents separated many years before. "Why did God let this happen to me if He's supposed to be good? I don't see anything good in my parents getting a divorce!" Sofia said fiercely.Aunt Lori was silent as she brushed Sofia's hair. After a moment, she said, "Let's go empty the compost." As they emptied the buckets into the compost bin, Sofia grimaced at the smell of the decomposing fruits and vegetables. "Gross," she muttered. Then they walked to the garden to do some weeding. "The plants are gorgeous," Sofia observed. "How do you keep them so healthy?""I put compost on them. But those haven't been getting much," Aunt Lori said, nodding to some rows of sadder-looking plants. "Let's put some compost on them now." As they worked, Aunt Lori said, "You know, Sofi, I think we're like these plants, and the difficulties we face are like compost.""How?" Sofia asked, puzzled. "Well, God can use the hard things in our lives to help us trust Him more and grow in our faith. He promises to use everything for good. Jesus's death on the cross was horrible, yet that's how God did the greatest good of all and saved us from our sins. And He can bring good from bad things that happen. God hates divorce--it's not good. My parents' divorce was awful, but it helped me see God as my perfect, loving Father. By His grace, I'm not a withered, dying plant because I know He is always with me, giving me strength." Aunt Lori smiled.Sofia had never thought about life that way. She did want to be vibrant and strong like the healthy-looking plants. She would think hard about what Aunt Lori had said. –Rachel AvalloneHow About You?Have you gone through uncomfortable or painful things in your life? It's natural to become upset and ask God, "Why is this happening to me?" Even though bad things happen, we know God is good. He promises to be with us through the hard things, and He is always at work in our lives. When difficult things happen, trust that God will use them for good.Today's Key Verse:We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. (NIV) (Romans 8:28)Today's Key Thought:God uses everything for our good

Bible Reading: Psalms 27:7-10; 116:1-9When Maggie stepped into the batter's box, she already had two strikes. One more would put her on the bench. She glanced at the stands. Her foster mom wasn't there. Maggie sighed. Her team chanted, "Two-strike hitter, don't be a quitter!" The pitch came in fast, and Maggie connected, sending the softball past the outfield. Softball took her mind off everything. When she got back home, her social worker was out front holding a bag with all Maggie's belongings. Oh no, I forgot! I'm moving today. She forced her feet to keep walking. Ever since Dad died, it was one foster home after another.After several months in her new house, Maggie saw a Bible lying open on her foster mom's desk. The words "I love the Lord because He hears my voice" jumped out at Maggie. "He doesn't hear my voice," she said out loud.Alice, Maggie's foster mom, came in and asked, "Who doesn't hear you, honey?" "Jesus doesn't. When Mom left, Dad told me to pray. When Dad got sick, I prayed. Now they're both gone." Alice put a soft hand on Maggie's shoulder. "You play softball--I did too. Do you ever cheer, 'Two-strike hitter…'""'Don't be a quitter!'" Maggie answered. "I'm a quitter at asking God for anything."Alice tapped the Bible. "Look at this psalm--Psalm 116. This man had pain and death all around him. He said he was brought low, but God heard him. Think--when your mom left, who was still with you?""Dad." Maggie paused. "And Jesus. And when Dad was sick, he told me that because Jesus died for me, I could trust Him even in hard times."Alice nodded. "Psalm 27 says that even if your mother and father are gone, the Lord will care for you. The Lord is taking care of you, Maggie. He sent you here, and we love you. We prayed for you before you came--and we're praying for your mom too. We don't know what she'll do. But we know what Jesus will do.""He'll hear my voice?" "Yes, He always hears you. Praying gives you a deeper friendship with God. When it comes to prayer, be that two-strike hitter, Maggie."Maggie grinned. "I won't be a quitter." –Laura RoeslerHow About You?Do you ever feel like you're striking out with God when you pray? Don't give up. Even when it seems like God isn't listening, He hears your prayers. He cares about your tears and your worries. He wants to hear what you have to say. Even if other people leave you, Jesus never will. He died and rose again so you could have a relationship with Him forever. Keep praying--He's listening.Today's Key Verse:Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath! (NLT) (Psalm 116:2)Today's Key Thought:The Lord hears you

Bible Reading: Matthew 7:7-12"Why does she get to ride when I have to walk?" Caden whined. "It's not fair!""Your sister is only two; her legs aren't as long or as strong as yours," Mom replied, parking the stroller in front of the two-toed sloth exhibit. Caden continued to pout. "Emma gets all the attention too! You treat her better than you treat me. You must love her more!""Caden, that's not true!" Mom sounded hurt. "You know I love you and your brothers and sister with all my heart.""Then why don't you treat us the same?" Mom pointed to the exhibit. "Do you see the zookeeper feeding the sloth?" Caden nodded. "What's she feeding it?" asked Mom."Looks like fruit."Mom nodded. "What did the zookeeper at the penguin exhibit fed the penguins?""Fish, right?""That's right. What would happen if this zookeeper tried to feed fish to the sloth?""Mom, sloths don't eat fish. They live in trees!" Caden laughed."Right again." Mom smiled. "Different animals eat different foods and live in different habitats because they have different needs. Good zookeepers treat all the animals differently because they care for all of them."Caden glanced at his little sister, who had fallen asleep. "Emma and I aren't different kinds of animals.""No," Mom replied, "but you are different people, and sometimes you have different needs. Emma needs help with things like holding her cup and turning a doorknob, but sometimes you need help with things like math homework and piano practice." Mom, Caden, and his brothers watched in fascination as the sloth munched languidly on an apple slice. "I think God is kind of like a zookeeper," Mom said. "He knows exactly what each of His children needs. We may not always get what we ask for when we pray, but He always provides for our needs. He provided for our greatest need of all by sending Jesus to save us from sin, and we can trust Him to provide for each of our specific needs too.""Hey! Give that back!" Caden's brother snatched the cap off his head and ran off with it, causing Emma to start crying."Sometimes I feel like a zookeeper too," Mom mused as the family moved on to the next exhibit. –Suzanne FeltonHow About You?Do you think it's unfair when you're treated differently than your brothers, sisters, or classmates? Adults who care about you know that different people often have different needs, and it's because they love you that they treat you differently. God knows us and loves us more than anyone else. Even when He answers His children's prayers differently, He always gives us what we need.Today's Key Verse:And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (NIV) (Philippians 4:19)Today's Key Thought:God gives us what we need

Bible Reading: Proverbs 6:16-19; Romans 6:11-18"Be sure you check your arms and legs for ticks!" Jay's mother called as he ran into the house. It was tick season, and the insects thrived in the woods where Jay played with friends. He obediently rolled up his sleeves, and sure enough, a tiny black bug had attached itself to his skin."Ugh. Got one, Mom. Can you take it off with your tweezers?" He went into the kitchen, and his mother pulled out a special tick removal tool from one of the drawers. "Ticks glue themselves to your skin and burrow in," she said. "That's why it's important not to try to brush them off."Jay nodded. "If the head stays in, it can give you Lyme disease, right? Like our neighbor has." "Yes, though not all ticks carry Lyme disease. But any tick that's not fully removed can cause an infection, so we don't want to take any chances." Jay's mom carefully removed the tick, then dropped it into a cup of rubbing alcohol. She smiled at Jay. "You know, sin can be like a tick sometimes--like when a bad habit attaches itself to us and burrows in. The longer it's there, the easier it can be to ignore--but like not properly removing a tick, ignoring sin is dangerous!""Because it's infecting us?" asked Jay."Sin doesn't make us sick the way a tick can," said Mom. "We won't get Lyme disease. But it can weaken our sense of right and wrong and make us lose our appetite for doing things that show others the love of Jesus. That's why the Bible warns us about letting sin infect our minds and hearts.""Too bad there's no such thing as sin tick removers!" Jay grinned, and his mother laughed."We have something even better!" Mom replied. "We have Jesus, who sacrificed His life to free us from sin. When we go to Him for help and confess our wrongs, He will forgive us and help us replace bad habits with good ones. The best thing we can do is faithfully check our attitude each day. If we ask Him to remove anything in our lives that shouldn't be there, He will!" –Deborah MeroffHow About You?Have you let sinful habits attach themselves to you? Like a tick imbedded in your skin, they are harmful and need to be removed right away. Check yourself daily, and when you notice a sinful habit in your life, confess it to Jesus. He paid a lot to save you from sin, and He promises to forgive you and help you live in a way that shows you belong to Him. Today's Key Verse:Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. (NIV) (Romans 6:12)Today's Key Thought:Don't ignore sin

Bible Reading: Hebrews 11:13-16Kenzie snapped one last picture of the Eiffel Tower. "It's so beautiful against the sunset!" She sighed. "I can't believe this is our last night here." "I know," Mom said. "Though I'm actually excited to be going home." "But this has been the best vacation ever," said Kenzie's sister, Aubrey. "I'm going to miss Paris." "All right, everyone," Dad said. "It's getting late. We'd better head back to the hotel to eat our last dinner here in France." Kenzie turned to follow him and accidentally bumped into a man with a touring cap and backpack. "Oh, I'm so sorry!" she said. The man glanced at her, said something in French, and moved past them. Kenzie giggled quietly. "You know what I'm looking forward to about going home? Being able to speak the language. I can't understand what French people say--and they can't understand me!" "Yeah," Aubrey said. "We really don't fit in here, do we?" "I'm looking forward to sleeping in my own bed again," Mom said. "And not living out of a suitcase anymore," Dad chimed in. "Sounds like we all agree," said Aubrey. "Paris is great, but it's not home." When they reached their hotel, they got a table at the restaurant downstairs. "You know what?" Dad said. "Our conversation earlier reminded me of something. Just like we're visitors here in France, the Bible says that Christians are visitors in the world. Our real citizenship is in heaven, not here on earth." "That makes sense," Aubrey said. "We don't always fit in here on earth because we're living for a different world," Dad went on. "We have different values and priorities because we're citizens of God's kingdom.""And someday He'll bring us there, right?" asked Kenzie. Dad nodded. "When Jesus returns and makes everything new, we'll live with Him in His heavenly kingdom forever. But we're also living as citizens of His kingdom now. Jesus saved us from sin and made us His people so we can experience the joy of knowing Him and let others know they can have an eternal home with Him too." Kenzie nodded. "I'm excited to go home to America, but I'm even more excited for my eternal home!" –Lucy AlessioHow About You?Do you ever feel like you don't fit in here in this world? Do you find the things that other people think are most important are not what bring joy and meaning to your life? The Bible tells us that, as Christians, we're just travelers here on earth. Our citizenship--our true home--is with Jesus. Don't be afraid to live differently in this world, knowing that heaven is where you truly belong. Today's Key Verse:But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ. (NIV) (Philippians 3:20)Today's Key Thought:Christians are citizens of heaven

Bible Reading: Romans 6:5-11Evan and James were hunting for wild edible mushrooms with their family. "Got one!" Evan yelled. "Wow, that one's a whopper!" James said. "Just make sure you know it's the right type," Dad warned. "You know the rule: One hundred percent sure, then take the treasure." They mushroom-hunted for a couple hours, driven by the hope of mushroom soup. "My mouth is already watering for mom's delicious soup!" Evan said. "Yeah!" James replied. "Mom is probably the best cook in town!" "I don't know about that," Mom said. "There are lots of good cooks out there." "Well, you're still a really good cook!" Evan and James said in unison, making the whole family laugh.After heading home, the two boys stood outside the kitchen, breathing in the wonderful smells. When the soup was done, the boys raced to be the first to the table. After giving thanks, they gulped it down. "This soup could be called new life soup," Dad said. "The mushrooms in it grow on dead wood. Though the tree has died, the mushrooms come alive by feeding on the nutrients in the wood. They're an example of death leading to new life.""Wow!" Evan said. "I didn't know that mushrooms grow on dead things.""I know of something else that has new life too," Mom said. "Can you guys guess what it is?" "A caterpillar turning into a butterfly?" James guessed. "Snakes getting new skin?" Evan added. "Good guesses, but I was thinking of something else," Mom replied. "Me!""You?" James asked. "How do you have new life?" "You two can have it too!" said Mom. "It comes from Jesus, our Savior. The Bible says every one of us is a sinner. When we confess our sins and trust Jesus to save us, our old, sinful self dies, and He gives us new life with Him!""Wow!" James said. "That's even cooler than mushrooms growing on dead logs." "Yeah," Evan agreed. "I want to ask Jesus to give me new life right now!" "Me too!" James said. Mom smiled at them and said, "Let's read some verses together and pray." –Elijah GollHow About You?Are you excited when you fix a broken toy? Are you happy when you make an old thing new again? Let God make you new too! Jesus died for our sins and rose from the dead to give us new life. When we trust Him as our Savior, He frees us from sin and gives us a new life with Him. Begin your new life today by trusting in Him! (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:Anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun! (NLT) (2 Corinthians 5:17)Today's Key Thought:Jesus gives us new life

Bible Reading: Isaiah 41:8-10"Oh no! No, no, no! Get me off this thing! Mom, make them stop!" Carrie squirmed nervously as the seat she was strapped into began to rise higher and higher into the air.Mom laughed and grabbed Carrie's hand. "Sorry, honey, but I think it's too late to get off now. Believe me, you're going to love it! It's just a little scary right now."Carrie continued to whimper as the ride climbed higher, and she gave a little shriek as the seats bumped into place high up in the air."It's okay," Mom reassured her. "I'm right here with you. You're going to be fine.""Okay," Carrie said, squeezing Mom's hand tight. She looked down at the park below them. "Hey, Mom, it's actually kind of cool to see everything from up here. I can see--aaaaahhhh!" Carrie screamed as the ride suddenly dropped.Mom screamed too, and then they were both laughing as the ride bounced back up and down a few more times before finally settling back down on the ground."Mom, that was so much fun! Can we go on it again?"Mom laughed. "Are you sure? I thought you wanted to get off before.""Oh. Yeah, well, I did, but I just held on to your hand and tried not to be scared, and it was still pretty scary at first, but then it was really fun!" Carrie took a deep breath and grinned. "I want to go again."As they waited in line, Mom said, "You know, Carrie, this ride made me think of you being nervous about starting a new school in a few weeks. It can help remind you that you don't have to be afraid when you're facing something scary in life. Jesus is right there with you, and it's like He's holding your hand. You don't have to be afraid--and you might even find out that whatever you're afraid of is really a great thing for you."Carrie nodded thoughtfully. "I'll try to remember that, Mom." She started walking as the attendant motioned them forward. "I know Jesus is with me, but will you still hold my hand during the ride?""Sure, honey. No problem." Mom laughed and gave Carrie's hand a quick squeeze. –Robyn MulderHow About You?Are you facing something scary in your life right now--something much bigger than a ride at an amusement park? No matter what it is you're facing, Jesus is right there with you. He loves you so much He gave His life for you, and He promises to always be with those who trust in Him. He'll be there to help you and comfort you, and He will never leave you. Today's Key Verse:Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified…for the Lord your God goes with you. (NIV) (Deuteronomy 31:6)Today's Key Thought:Jesus is always with you

Bible Reading: Romans 12:3-5"I want to play first base this year, and Coach Nichols won't let me!" said Quincy. "He says I'll help the team more if I play right field." He frowned. "The guys have a saying about right field. They say, 'right field equals left out,' because the ball never gets hit to that side of the outfield.""Now, hold on! That's just not true!" said Dad. "A good right fielder often makes important plays--and I know you'll be a good one." But nothing Dad said could convince Quincy that right field was a good position for him.The next day, Quincy helped his father plant geraniums in the front yard. "Maybe we could get some of those bushes with white flowers we saw when we hiked up Mount Major," said Quincy. "They'd look nice here with the geraniums."Dad shook his head. "Those plants grow well in higher elevations, but I don't think they'd do well down here. God didn't intend for all plants to thrive in the same location. Each species has its own spot in the plant kingdom. That principle applies to people too. God has blessed every one of us with the talents we need to do the best job in the special spot He's put us in."Dad smiled at Quincy. "For example, God gave you one of the strongest throwing arms on your baseball team. That's important for a right fielder, so give it a chance. Perhaps God has a special lesson He wants you to learn by playing right field on your ball team.""What lesson could there be in that?" asked Quincy. "Maybe God wants you to see that every person on a team is important," said Dad. "That's true for baseball, and it's also true for another team you're on--Jesus's team of all those who trust in Him. God gave every Christian an important part to play in caring for other members of Christ's team and sharing His love with those who don't know Him. Without each person's important role, the whole team suffers--just like your baseball team won't do as well if you refuse to play right field."Quincy sighed. "Okay," he said after a moment. "Right field, here I come!" –Linda M. MagoonHow About You?Do you get upset when you don't get the position you want--whether it's on a sports team or within Christ's team of believers? Jesus gave you the gifts and abilities He did so you could fill an important role and serve Him with other Christians. So no matter where He places you, be a team player and use your gifts to help the body of Christ share His love with the world. Today's Key Verse:Those members of the body which seem to be weaker are necessary. (NKJV) (1 Corinthians 12:22)Today's Key Thought:Each team member is important

Bible Reading: Luke 15:4-10; Acts 1:8"Mom, have you seen my other tennis shoe?" Piper ran from room to room with only one shoe on, desperately looking for the other one. She was supposed to be leaving to spend the night at her friend Aryanna's house. "No, but I can help you look. Do you remember where you saw it last?" Mom asked. Piper shook her head, and the two frantically looked for the missing shoe. They looked under beds, in the closet, in the bathroom, and even in Piper's brother's room. "Are you sure you didn't pack it with your overnight things?" Mom asked. Piper was about to say she would never do anything silly like that, but she knew Mom would just make her look anyway, so she began pulling out everything from her bag. The last thing she pulled out was her missing shoe. "Oops--here it is!" Piper said, a little embarrassed. "Well, I'm glad it's been found." "Remember I'm going to pick you up for church tomorrow," Mom said as they got in the car. "Did you invite Aryanna to come?" Piper shook her head. "Did you know that the Bible talks about Jesus wanting us to help Him find what's lost?" Mom asked. Piper shot her mom a puzzled look. "What could Jesus have lost that He would need our help finding? He's God's Son. He knows everything!""The Bible says Jesus wants us to help bring lost sinners to Him. We can do that by praying for them and sharing how He's changed our lives--and even by inviting them to church." Mom turned to look at Piper. "Do you remember how happy and relieved you felt when you found your missing shoe?" Piper nodded. "Well," said Mom, "the Bible says all of heaven rejoices when one sinner is saved. That's how happy God is when one lost person is found. And even though God is the only one who can change a person's heart, He wants us to play a part by praying for others and pointing them to Him so we can rejoice with Him when they're found." "Okay, Mom. I'll see if Aryanna wants to come to church with us tomorrow," Piper said as they pulled into Aryanna's driveway. "And I'll pray for her too." –Melissa YeagleHow About You?Do you know people who don't know Jesus? We can't change people's hearts, but we can play a role in bringing others to Jesus by praying for them, telling them what He did for us on the cross, and inviting them to learn more about Him. Trust God to help you point others to Jesus, and when one of them is found, you can rejoice with all of heaven! Today's Key Verse:There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. (NKJV) (Luke 15:10)Today's Key Thought:Point others to Jesus

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:1-6"There goes Old Faithful!" Corbin said as they watched hot water burst from the ground and shoot high into the air. He and his sister Fiona were showing their aunt a video Corbin had made on their vacation to Yellowstone National Park. "The park ranger said the rock deep underground is so hot it heats the spring water," said Corbin."And then it reaches its boiling point and boils up and shoots out of the ground," added Fiona.After their aunt had left, Fiona and Corbin got out a game. "You lose!" Corbin said after they played a little while. "You're not allowed to make that move!""I am too!" said Fiona. But Corbin wouldn't agree, and the two started arguing. Finally, Fiona pushed back her chair. "You make me so mad!" "What did I do?" Corbin asked."Tons of things!" Fiona's voice grew louder. "You cheat, you used my bike without asking, you embarrassed me in front of my friends, and you spilled juice on my homework. I hate you!" She ran to her bedroom and slammed the door. Then she opened it and slammed it again.Corbin followed Mom to Fiona's room. "You know we don't slam doors," Mom said. "And that angry outburst was not pretty.""Yeah," said Corbin. "You erupted with more force than Old Faithful." He grinned. "Hey, I know! I'll call you Old Fiona." "Corbin, go to your room," said Mom. "I'll talk to you later." When he had left, she turned back to Fiona. "Corbin does have a point.""But he's mean!" said Fiona. "He'd make anybody mad!""We all have feelings of anger at times," said Mom. "We need to deal with them, not just let them build up and burst out. One way to deal with your anger is to talk to the person who made you angry and explain what's bothering you. Don't store up angry feelings and grudges. Make an effort to make peace and be friends.""I don't think Corbin would listen, so why even bother?" asked Fiona."Give him a chance," said Mom. "And be willing to forgive. Remember that Jesus has forgiven you for all your wrongs and will help you forgive and love others. A loving relationship with anyone is always worth the effort." –Nance E. KeyesHow About You?What do you do with your anger? Do you keep it inside and let it build up into bitterness and resentment? Does it erupt in angry words and hurtful actions? Don't let it do that! Talk with the person who made you angry, and if necessary, tell an adult how you feel. Then trust God to help you deal with your anger and be willing to forgive.Today's Key Verse:"In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:26)Today's Key Thought:Don't store up angry feelings

Bible Reading: Psalm 23; John 10:1-12, 27-28Evening descended swiftly on the French Alps. Chloe snuggled closer to her dad as the two of them and her dad's friend Jules huddled around a fire for warmth. "Another good thing about being a sheep is all that wool to keep you warm," Chloe said. Jules nodded. "It's almost time to put them in their pen for the night. If I wait until it gets too dark, the wolves come out." Chloe's eyes widened. "Have you ever had to fight a wolf, Uncle Jules?" He nodded solemnly. "Fortunately, I was able to save the lamb. The sheep know they are safe when they stay close to me, just like we are safe with Jesus, our shepherd.""That doesn't mean bad things won't happen to us," Dad interjected. "Everyone goes through darkness and tough times. But our Good Shepherd promises to be with us through every dark valley we encounter." "So we don't need to fear, just like David wrote in Psalm Twenty-Three," Chloe said softly. "Uncle Jules, what about the verse where David talks about God anointing his head with oil? What does that have to do with sheep?" Jules grinned. "Do you think Chloe can handle this, John?" "It's kind of gross, Chloe," Dad warned. "I can handle it!" "We have different medicine now, but back in David's day, shepherds used to pour oil over the sheep's heads to protect them from bugs," said Jules. "That's not so gross--kind of like giving pets flea medicine." "But these kinds of bugs would eventually make their way into the sheep's brains and destroy them." "Ewww!" Chloe shuddered. "Good thing they have a shepherd to protect every part of them--even their brains.""God does the same thing for us," Jules noted. "When we listen to the truth of His Word, it transforms and renews our minds and helps keep us from fixating on what might harm us. Instead of worry, we can feel His peace. That's why reading and memorizing God's Word is important." Chloe gazed at the sheep thoughtfully. "Uncle Jules, I've learned a lot this week. One thing's for sure--I'm going to listen to my Good Shepherd."–Savannah ColemanHow About You?Do you follow Jesus as your shepherd? Jesus says He is the gate for the sheep--trusting Him to save you through His sacrifice on the cross is the only way to have eternal, abundant life. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) As His sheep, we need to listen to Him. He speaks to us through His Word, the Bible. Listen to your Good Shepherd so He can fill your thoughts with His peace.Today's Key Verse:My sheep listen to my voice; I know them and they follow me. (NIV) (John 10:27)Today's Key Thought:Listen to your Good Shepherd

Bible Reading: Psalm 23; Isaiah 53:4-7Chloe gasped as the car rounded the mountain road and the French Alps were fully displayed. "I've never seen anything so majestic!" Dad parked the car next to a rustic cabin. The cabin door opened and a man with dark curly hair and a beard exited with arms outstretched. "John! Come and hug your old friend!" Chloe hung back, watching the happy reunion until the men turned to her. "Chloe, meet my old college friend, Jules! The last time we got together you were just a baby." "You can call me Uncle Jules if you wish, Chloe. My, you are growing up quickly!" "Do we really get to stay a whole week and help you care for your sheep? Dad says you have over a thousand! I read that shepherding is a difficult job. What's your favorite part about it?" Jules threw up his hands and laughed. "Whoa! I'm not used to all these questions. The sheep aren't nearly as chatty." Jules winked at Chloe. "I'm happy to tell you all about it over a nice cup of coffee."The next morning, Chloe was bundled and ready for a day of shepherding. After a few hours, she collapsed on the ground dramatically. "How do you not get bored, Uncle Jules?"Jules chuckled. "It takes a certain type of personality to do this day after day, but I actually enjoy all this stillness. I have plenty of time to memorize God's Word out here and reflect on His goodness." "Kind of like David did," said Chloe. "He was a shepherd too. Didn't he write that famous psalm about sheep?" Jules nodded. "Psalm Twenty-Three.""David compares us to sheep in the psalm," Dad pointed out. "And the Lord is our shepherd. When we had wandered away and were lost in sin, Jesus gave His life to save us, and He promises to guide us and take care of us." Jules pulled a small, worn Bible out of his coat pocket and opened it to Psalm 23. Chloe read it aloud through verse three. "Today we are living out this psalm!" she said. "This morning you put salt out so the sheep could follow the route you wanted them to take. Just like you lead them on safe terrain, God guides us on the right paths." –Savannah ColemanHow About You?Have you ever thought about how much we are like sheep? Just like sheep, we want to go our own way and are prone to getting lost. We need a shepherd to keep us on the right path, and that shepherd is Jesus. He took the punishment for our sins to make us His sheep, and He guides us and provides for us. When we spend time in His presence, He refreshes our souls. How will you choose to follow the Good Shepherd today?Today's Key Verse:He refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name's sake. (NIV) (Psalm 23:3)Today's Key Thought:Jesus is our Good Shepherd

Bible Reading: Psalm 139:13-16; Romans 8:28-30Alfie hoisted himself up onto a ledge of crumbling granite and collapsed on a small patch of mossy grass. "That was quite a climb!" he said as he rubbed his aching legs. "Aren't you tired, Uncle Don? We've hiked a long way.""We'll catch our breath for a few minutes before we head back," said Uncle Don. He took off his backpack and set it down. Alfie picked up some stones. "Look at this!" he said. Uncle Don knelt beside him, and they looked at the stone Alfie held in his hand. It was shaped like a triangle and came to an unmistakable point. "It's a real arrowhead, isn't it?" said Alfie."Sure looks like it to me," said Uncle Don.Alfie brushed the dirt and dust from the stone and held it up so that the light glinted off its edges. "You know," said Uncle Don, "the man who made that arrowhead carefully chiseled it, and he knew just how he wanted to use it."Alfie looked at his uncle. "He would have used it for hunting, wouldn't he?" Uncle Don nodded. "I imagine so. He would have had a specific purpose for that arrowhead, and I'm quite sure it accomplished its purpose. He probably used it to get food for his family." Uncle Don smiled. "Can you think of any lesson we can learn from that?""Hmm--shoot straight when you hunt?" Alfie said with a grin. "Though that's probably not the kind of lesson you're talking about."Uncle Don laughed. "You're right. I think this arrowhead should remind us that someone made us for a special purpose.""Yep," said Alfie. "God did!""That's right," said Uncle Don. "You're far more important than a simple arrowhead, Alfie, and God has a wonderful plan for your life. He created you with loving care, and He sent His Son to save you from sin and give you eternal life. He's using all your life experiences to shape you to be more like Jesus so you can serve Him the way He wants you to. Whenever you look at your arrowhead, remember that God has a purpose for your life and will be there to guide you every step of the way."Alfie put the arrowhead in his pocket. "I will." –Christi B. KehnHow About You?Did you know that God has a special plan for your life? God made you and sent His Son, Jesus, to save you from sin, and He has plans for you. Talk with Him every day and ask Him for guidance. Read the Bible to learn more about Him and how He wants you to live. Stop and thank Him for something wonderful in your life. Trust Him to shape you into the person He wants you to be.Today's Key Verse:"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans…to give you hope and a future." (NIV) (Jeremiah 29:11)Today's Key Thought:God has a plan for your life

Bible Reading: Luke 10:25-37; 1 John 3:16-19After Baker and his mom got off the Ferris wheel, they joined a group of people crowding around a man with a painted face acting out various skits. Baker laughed with the crowd as the man pretended to be learning to ride a bike. But he wondered why the man didn't say anything. "Mom, why doesn't he talk?" "Because he's a mime," Mom replied. "They never talk, but you can tell by their actions what they're doing."Next, the mime pretended to wash a window. He acted as though he bumped his head on the pretend ladder. Later, he appeared to be eating an ice cream cone--and shot the crowd a look of dismay when the ice cream fell off. The crowd laughed and applauded as he acted out one scenario after another. The show ended with the mime making a sad face and waving goodbye to the crowd.Baker turned to his mom. "Wow! He never said a thing, but I could figure out everything he was doing.""Actions say a lot," said Mom. "Do you remember the story in the Bible about the Good Samaritan?" "Sure," said Baker. "It's a story Jesus told about a man who needed help on the side of the road. Two people went by without helping him, and then a Samaritan came along and did all he could to help him.""Right," said Mom. "And if the two people who had passed by earlier had said they cared about that man, would you have believed them?" Baker shook his head. "Jesus told that story to show how we should love others," Mom continued. "Saying you care about someone isn't enough--you also need to show them you care through your actions."Baker's eyes widened. "So the Good Samaritan was really a mime?" Mom laughed. "Well, I'm sure he didn't paint his face and perform funny skits, but he did communicate his love for others through his actions. Jesus did that too by taking the punishment for our sins on the cross so we could be saved. His sacrifice showed that His words of love for us were true. Let's let others know we care about them through both our words and our actions."–Annette S. BuryHow About You?How do you let others know you care about them? It's good to tell people you care, but it's not enough. In Jesus's parable, the Good Samaritan showed how much he cared by going to great lengths to help the injured man. Now that's loud love! That's the kind of love Jesus showed us when He died for our sins. What can you do to turn up the volume and show others you care? Today's Key Verse:Let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth. (NIV) (1 John 3:18)Today's Key Thought:Actions speak loudly

Bible Reading: Isaiah 48:17-18; Ephesians 5:1-2; 1 John 2:3-6"Mom, I see the parade! It's coming!" Millie squealed with excitement and grabbed hold of her little brother's hand. "James, get ready, because they're going to throw candy right at us and we can put it in our bags, okay?"James nodded and grinned. Millie looked down the street and hopped up and down in anticipation."Just be patient, honey," Mom called from her lawn chair. "It will be here soon."Millie craned her neck to see down the street. The parade was still far away, but she could make out flags, cars, floats, and even a fire truck. She could faintly hear a drum and knew the band was marching her way.Suddenly, she gave a little shriek of dismay. "It turned! They're going down a different street. They're not coming here!""What?" Dad jumped up and looked down the street, and Millie noticed everyone else getting up and looking around in confusion. "Come on, Millie!" Dad scooped up James, and they ran to the next block just as the parade arrived. Millie forgot about all the confusion until they walked home afterward. "Mom, why didn't the parade go by where we were sitting at first? Were we in the wrong place?"Mom laughed. "No, we were on the right street. I think the person at the front of the parade got a little confused and made a wrong turn. Good thing we caught up and didn't miss anything, right?""Right!" said Millie. "It was so much fun, and I got lots of candy!""You know, wrong turns like that can happen in our lives," Dad said. "The people in the parade all trusted that the person in front would go the right way, but they didn't. We can go the wrong way too by following people--like leaders or friends at school--because what they're doing seems right but isn't." Mom nodded. "There's only one Person who can lead us the right way. Do you know who that is?""Jesus!" Millie and James both shouted."Right," said Mom. "When we know Him as our Savior, He forgives our wrong turns in life and makes us able to love others the way He does. We need to follow Him as He leads us in His example of love." –Robyn MulderHow About You?Who do you follow? Friends? Celebrities? Influencers? Looking to other people as examples of how to live will only lead you in the wrong direction, because they are sinners just like you. Only Jesus is perfect. He died and rose again to save you from sin and give you eternal life, and He will lead you in loving others the way He does. Follow His example and trust God to help you be more like Him each day. Today's Key Verse:Follow God's example, therefore, as dearly loved children. (NIV) (Ephesians 5:1)Today's Key Thought:Follow Jesus, not people

Bible Reading: Romans 3:22-26; Titus 3:5-7Rosita wiped sweat from her forehead, then got back to scrubbing the pot in the sink. She was working as hard as she could to clean the kitchen before Mom got home. They'd had a fight that morning, and Rosita was sorry for the things she'd said. She sighed and scrubbed harder. I want this kitchen sparkling clean when Mom gets home from work, she thought. That'll make up for it.She glanced into the living room where her little brother was watching cartoons. "Hugo, bring your plate and cup here so I can wash them. And I just mopped the floor, so be careful!" But Hugo wasn't careful. He ran in and slipped when his socks hit the wet floor. His plastic dishes went flying into the air as he went sprawling across the kitchen, milk and crumbs raining down on top of him.Rosita gasped. "Hugo!" Just then the door opened and Mom walked in. "Wow," she said. "What a mess." Rosita covered her face with her soapy hands and burst into tears. Mom and Hugo stared at her for a moment before Mom sent him upstairs to wash the milk out of his hair. "Rosita, what's wrong?" Mom asked."I--I've been working hard to clean the kitchen all afternoon. I wanted everything to be sparkling clean when you got here because I felt bad about what I said this morning. I wanted to make things right.""Oh, honey." Mom gave her a hug. "You don't have to clean the kitchen to make things right with me. You're my daughter--I love you, and I'll always forgive you. But I know the feeling. In fact, I used to try to do the same thing with God. I thought I could make up for my wrongs by doing something right. But it wasn't enough.""Because the only way to make things right with God is through Jesus, right?" "You got it," said Mom. "When we trust Him to save us, He forgives our sins and makes us sparkling clean." Rosita nodded. "I'm sorry for what I said this morning, Mom. Will you forgive me?" "Of course." Mom grabbed a mop from the closet. "And now I'm going to make this kitchen sparkling clean!" –Courtney LasaterHow About You?Are you working hard to make things right with God? Are you trying to do good things so He'll forgive you for the bad things you've done? No matter what you do, it won't make up for your sin. Only Jesus can make you right with God. He died and rose again so you could be forgiven and have all your sins washed away. Confess your sin and trust in Him, and He will forgive you. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.)Today's Key Verse:If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. (NKJV) (1 John 1:9)Today's Key Thought:Only Jesus makes things right

Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 12:9-10; James 1:2-6"I'm not sure I can catch this wave," Caleb yelled to his uncle as the ocean waves roared. The wind was getting stronger, and it was hard to hear. Dark clouds rolled in from above, blocking the sunshine. Caleb gripped the edges of his surfboard. This surfing lesson wasn't going well. He wanted to do what his uncle taught him and stand up on his board and ride the wave, but it seemed impossible. "Uncle Luke, I've slipped three times, and my arms are exhausted from paddling! I don't think I'm strong enough."Uncle Luke swam over to Caleb. "Let's take a break, and then I'll help you. I know it's scary, but trust me--I've been surfing a long time and know what I'm doing. Can you do that?"Caleb nodded. They bobbed on their boards for a minute before Uncle Luke continued. "You know, Caleb, life is hard sometimes, just like surfing. When scary doubts build up, or the winds blow and it's hard to hear God's voice, we can share our fears with Jesus. He wants us to have faith in Him instead of ourselves. He is perfect, and we can always trust Him because He gave His life to save us and promises He will never leave us.""Thanks for the reminder, Uncle Luke," Caleb replied with a smile. "Sometimes life makes me feel even weaker and more exhausted than surfing does!""We all feel that way sometimes," Uncle Luke said. "But when we look to Jesus to help us through hard times in life, the Holy Spirit strengthens us. Just like when I push you into the waves, hold onto your surfboard and look up, not down. Okay, ready to paddle?" "Yeah!" Caleb replied. This time, he trusted his uncle's advice and focused on that instead of his doubts. He paddled hard and slowly stood up in the air. He caught a wave! Caleb popped out of the water with a smile, "Hey, Uncle Luke! Thanks for reminding me that I don't have to doubt. When I'm afraid, I can trust in Jesus." –Grace ThomasHow About You?Do you trust in God when life gets rough? Or does your heart constantly change like the waves of the sea? You may feel discouraged when faced with a challenging situation, and that's okay. Remember, Jesus understands what you're going through and promises to be with you wherever you go. You don't have to be afraid or doubt in the rocky waves of life. Look to Jesus for the help and strength you need. Today's Key Verse:But let him ask in faith, with no doubting, for he who doubts is like a wave of the sea driven and tossed by the wind. (NKJV) (James 1:6)Today's Key Thought:Have faith in Jesus

Bible Reading: Matthew 18:19-20; 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18"Mom, I'm really worried about Charlotte," Anna said as she sat down at the table. Charlotte and Anna were best friends and did everything together. "What's going on?" Mom asked as she added ingredients into the mixer. "Well, she's been having a lot of headaches lately. I'm worried there might be something seriously wrong with her. What if she has cancer or something?" Mom plopped a scoop of raw cookie dough onto a tray. "It sounds like you've been doing a lot of worrying about this.""It's all I can think about, Mom! I'm just so afraid something bad is going to happen to Charlotte. I can't imagine life without her." Mom brought the tray of cookie dough to the table and sat down. "Have you prayed about it?" she asked. "Um, well--no," Anna said. Mom sighed. "Well, I've been pretty worried too lately. Tomorrow is your school bake sale, and I'm worried these cookies won't get baked in time!"Anna glanced at the clock. "Mom, you have plenty of time. They don't take that long to bake--just put them in the oven.""I guess I could, but I'd rather just sit here and worry about it," Mom said. Anna gave her mom a puzzled look. "Mom, you're being silly!"Mom smiled. "You're right, it's silly to sit here and worry when there's something I could do about the problem. But you're doing the same thing. You're not helping your friend at all by worrying about her. You can help by doing something about it and praying for her."Anna knew her mom was right, and the two took a moment to pray for Charlotte. Then Anna helped bake the cookies and bag them up for the sale. The next day Anna came home smiling. "Mom, guess what! Charlotte's mom took her to the doctor yesterday, and it turns out she's been having headaches because she needs glasses--not because she's dying from some disease." Mom smiled. "So all that worrying for nothing?" Anna nodded. "You were right, Mom. I should have done something about it and prayed for her in the first place." –Melissa YeagleHow About You?When you or someone you know has a problem, do you worry about it? Why not do something about it instead--pray! God is in control of everything, and He loves you so much He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for you. You can bring all your worries and concerns to Him. He'll always do what's best and be with you through everything. Today's Key Verse:Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. (NLT) (Philippians 4:6)Today's Key Thought:Pray about your worries

Bible Reading: Psalm 119:27, 159-160; 2 Timothy 3:14-17The sun was just poking its head over the treetops when Savannah and her mother left for a walk in the woods near their new home. "I didn't understand what Dad read in the Bible this morning," Savannah said. "Why can't we just skip the parts of the Bible that don't seem to say anything important?"Mom was about to reply when Savannah spotted some interesting bushes along the path. "Look, Mom. Those are some kind of berry bushes, aren't they?"Mom stopped and peered at the bushes. "I think they might be, but I don't see any fruit on them."Savannah reached out and lifted some of the leaves. "Here! Underneath the leaves.""You're right!" said Mom. "Those are wild blackberries! They'd taste great on our cereal--or just as a snack. How about running back to the house and getting a bucket so we can pick some?"Savannah eagerly ran home and returned with a pail, and she and Mom began to gather the ripe, luscious fruit. "I'm glad your sharp eyes noticed these," said Mom. "I saw the green leaves, but I didn't see what was hidden underneath them." She dumped a handful of berries into the bucket. "Maybe that's the answer to the question you asked a while ago.""You mean about skipping parts of the Bible?" asked Savannah. Mom nodded. "When we read the Bible, we don't always understand every important truth right away--just like I didn't spot those berries. But when we take time to think about what a verse or passage says, it can help us see how it fits into God's story of how He continues to love us even though we sin. Everything in the Bible points to God's gift of Jesus, who became human and died and rose again to save us. Every passage can teach us something about Jesus and our need for Him. That's why we read all the parts of the Bible.""When we get back home, maybe I should read that Bible passage from this morning again," said Savannah."Why don't we read it together?" suggested Mom. "We can eat fruit from this bucket while we look for spiritual fruit in the Bible!" –Judith K. BoogaartHow About You?Are some parts of the Bible hard for you to understand? The Bible is full of poems, stories, and events that all reveal God's faithful love. Each one is important, but some can be difficult to understand on our own. That's why it's important to study the Bible with other Christians and depend on God for help. When you come across something that's confusing, ask God to give you understanding, and ask a trusted adult to help you too.Today's Key Verse:All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. (NLT) (2 Timothy 3:16)Today's Key Thought:Learn from all of the Bible

Bible Reading: Matthew 11:28-30Julian cheered in excitement at the tractor pulling contest. One of the contestants--a friend of Julian's family--revved the engine as his tractor strained to pull the heavy load. It inched along, then gathered speed to the finish line. "He made it!" Julian shouted, and he clapped along with others in the crowd."The next load he has to pull will be heavier," Grandpa said.The driver revved the engine again, and it moved slowly forward. The load behind the groaning tractor was dragged at a snail's pace to the finish line. Julian shot up from his seat and cheered.He grew anxious as he watched the workers add more weights to the next load. The driver powered up the engine, but nothing happened. Again the engine roared, but the load didn't budge. The driver hunched over the wheel as if to coax the tractor into one last try before time was up. Julian felt like he was in the contest himself, and he yelled encouragement as the tractor began to inch forward. Slowly, slowly it went, until at last it reached the finish line. It had moved a heavier load than any other tractor. The crowd went wild.Over hot dogs and pop, Grandpa and Julian talked about the contest. "It made me think about the struggles we have in life," said Grandpa. "Sometimes our loads are almost too heavy for us to pull."Julian nodded, thinking about the hard time he had in reading class at school. He just couldn't read as well as the other kids. After getting his last report card, Julian had gone to his room and cried.Grandpa smiled at him. "Way back when I was your age, I found out that Jesus wants to help us pull heavy loads--the hardships we face in life. So I ask Him to help me whenever I feel like things are just too much. The problems don't always disappear, but they seem lighter when I remember that Jesus, who took the burden of my sin by dying on the cross, wants to help me with any struggles that are weighing me down."Julian smiled back at Grandpa, knowing what he had to do. He would talk to Jesus about his struggle to read. He needed help with his heavy load. –Carolyn E. YostHow About You?Does something in your life seem too heavy to bear? Talk to Jesus about it. He wants to help you with your troubles. Maybe He'll take the burden away--but maybe not. Perhaps He'll simply comfort you and make your burden easier to bear as you trust Him with it. Whenever you feel overwhelmed, ask Him for help and trust that He'll lighten your load. Today's Key Verse:Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you. (NLT) (1 Peter 5:7)Today's Key Thought:Jesus lightens loads

Bible Reading: Exodus 19:3-6; Isaiah 40:27-31Annie leaned her forehead against the cool windowpane of the airport in Sicily. She sighed as she watched yet another large airplane taxi down the runway and fly off into the big blue sky. Her family had been detoured on the way back to the States from Africa where they were missionaries, and it felt like they had been stuck in the airport for weeks instead of days."Vroom, vroom!" Her younger brother, Bryce, flew past her with his arms extended and accidentally bumped her elbow."Knock it off, Bryce!" Annie said irritably."Hey, what's the problem?" Dad asked, coming over.Annie sighed again. "It feels like we've been at the airport forever and God has forgotten about us!"Dad nodded thoughtfully. "I know it feels that way right now, but God is working out just the right flight for us to get on." He looked out the airport window as another plane took off. "Did you know the Bible talks about wings?"Bryce stopped making airplane noises and looked at Dad. "Like airplane wings?"Dad smiled. "These are a different type of wings. Do you remember the story in the Bible about the people of Israel getting ready to go into the land God had promised them? They had waited a very long time--longer than we've waited here! God reminded them of how He had taken care of them before, just like an eagle takes care of its young by carrying them on its wings. And God will always take care of us too. Jesus died and rose from the dead to make us God's children, and He won't ever forget about us. He promises to help us in every situation.""Wow. I never thought of it like that before," Annie said."Me neither," said Bryce."Speaking of wings," Dad said, "I think I'll go make another phone call and see if we'll be able to get on one of those airplanes today."As he walked away, Bryce got a silly look on his face. "Hey, Annie, what do you think the eagle said to Dad when the phone rang?"Annie shrugged. "I don't know. What?""Wing, wing!"Bryce and Annie's laughter echoed in the airport as they relaxed, knowing both their dad and their heavenly Father were taking care of them. –Kelly HopeHow About You?Have you ever been stuck in a hard situation and wondered if God had forgotten about you? It may feel like that sometimes, but He promises to care for you and work things out for the best. The next time you hear the sound of an airplane or see a bird flying in the sky, remember that God sent His own Son to save you and promises to always take care of you. Today's Key Verse:You yourselves have seen what I did to Egypt, and how I carried you on eagles' wings and brought you to myself. (NIV) (Exodus 19:4)Today's Key Thought:God takes care of you

Bible Reading: Isaiah 43:1-4Max opened his car window and smelled pine trees. Mom and Dad sang their old camp song about a cowboy and his one-eyed horse. Max usually sang along. But today the lyrics caught in his throat.Mom and Dad's stories of camp made Max feel like he knew the place even though he'd never been there. He couldn't wait to come to Bible camp. But now as camp came into view, he wasn't so sure. "It's too bad the other boys from church couldn't come with you," Mom said.Dad parked the car and patted Max on the shoulder. "You're going to love it here!" Max felt funny inside as he watched Mom and Dad drive away.Max met his counselor, who showed him around his cabin. "Okay, Mike, here's your bunk." He doesn't even know my name, Max thought. Nobody here does. I don't belong here.The counselor shouted, "Campers! Time to meet out by the lake. Bring your Bibles. Move out!"In the noisy crowd, everyone seemed to be with friends. No one spoke to Max. At the beach, the camp director blew a whistle and shouted, "Bibles up! First one who turns to Isaiah 43:1, whistle the cowboy song!" A moment later Max and most of the other boys started whistling. The director pointed to Max. "Read the last part of verse one." Max read, "Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are Mine." The director nodded at Max and said, "Even though I don't know this camper's name, God does. And God knows each of your names. He knows all about you because He made you. He sent His Son, Jesus, to save you. This is the theme verse for camp this week, so we're going to memorize it and talk about it every day. It shows that God loves you and wants you to belong to Him."Max prayed silently, "God, I know I belong to You--thank you for saving me and always being with me. Please help me feel like I belong here too."On the way back to the cabin, a boy walked up to Max. "You must be new here," he said. "I'm Oliver." Max smiled and said, "My name is Max." –Laura RoeslerHow About You?Do you ever feel like an outsider and that people around you don't really know you? No one knows you better than God. He made you and wants to have a relationship with you because He loves you. Whenever you feel like you don't belong, remember that God wants you to belong to Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) Trust Him to be with you when you feel alone and afraid. Today's Key Verse:Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by your name; you are mine. (CSB) (Isaiah 43:1)Today's Key Thought:God knows you and wants you

Bible Reading: Romans 12:9-13"Look!" said Rylee, stepping back from the huge saguaro cactus. "There's something in that hole!"Dad and Easton came over to see. Sure enough, a pair of blinking yellow eyes peered back at them from a hole in the trunk of the cactus."I think it's a screech owl," said Easton. "We learned that woodpeckers peck holes into cactuses when they make their nests. Then after they leave, other birds move into the empty holes and live there."Dad nodded. "Each time the cactus skin is broken--like when a woodpecker makes a hole--a thick gluey liquid seeps out and forms a waterproof pouch. The liquid hardens, kind of like a scab, to make the pouch permanent. Inside the hole it's cooler in the day and warmer at night, so it makes an ideal home for desert birds."Rylee saw big and little holes in the arms of one of the cactuses--they were everywhere. "This saguaro is like a high-rise apartment building!" she said with a laugh. "What a crowded place to live."Easton grinned. "Just like our house."Rylee nodded thoughtfully. Grandma had recently moved into their house, and Julia, a single mom who went to their church, was going to be living with them for a while with her two-year-old son, Wilder. Rylee remembered the discussion they'd had about Julia and Wilder coming. "You're kidding!" Rylee had said. "Where are they going to sleep?""Well, they will need to move into your room, and you'll have to share a room with Easton." Dad patted Rylee's hand when he saw the look on her face. "It's only for a while until Julia can get back on her feet. We'll all have to make some sacrifices, but that's often necessary when we're called to love others like Jesus, who sacrificed everything for us. Pray about it, will you?" Rylee had tried, but she hadn't felt comfortable praying. She knew she was being selfish. But now Rylee looked at the big saguaro that offered a home to any creature who needed it, even if it meant having holes pecked into its walls. I won't complain, she thought. Even if Wilder pounds holes into our walls too--and knowing him, I'm sure he will! –Trudy Vander VeenHow About You?Are you willing to give up some of your comforts or conveniences to help others? Try to put yourself in their shoes and consider how you might feel if you needed help and no one was willing to give it. When we needed to be rescued from sin, Jesus sacrificed His life to save us. Trust Him to help you love others the way He does and be willing to make sacrifices for them. Today's Key Verse:No one should seek their own good, but the good of others. (NIV) (1 Corinthians 10:24)Today's Key Thought:Make sacrifices for others

Bible Reading: Psalm 119:9-16Rylee leaned back to see the top of the huge saguaro cactus next to her. Its spiny arms reached out and up toward the sky. "With so many big arms, this thing should be holding something. Try sitting on one of its arms, Easton," Rylee said with a grin."No way!" said Easton. "I'm not sitting on those prickly things!""Those arms," said Dad, "are holding what is probably the most valuable thing in the entire region.""And I know what it is," Easton said. "Water! Cactus plants can live in the dry, hot desert by storing water inside their trunk and arms.""That can't be right," said Rylee, looking around at the sand and rocks. They extended as far as she could see. "There's no water here!""Easton is right," said Dad. "Cactus roots don't go very deep into the earth. Instead, they go down only about three feet and then spread out about a hundred feet in all directions. The spread-out roots draw in every drop of rain, sending it to a hidden storage area in the arms and trunk of the cactus. That inner water supply is what keeps this cactus alive and growing. These big fellas can soak up as much as two hundred gallons of water--enough to last them a whole year!""Yeah, that's why they're pleated like an accordion," Easton said, eager to show his knowledge. "The pleats expand as the spongy material inside absorbs water.""That's incredible!" said Rylee. "Well, Mr. Cactus, I can see you're a pretty smart guy!"Dad smiled. "One with a good lesson for us about the importance of storing things.""About storing water?" asked Easton. "I don't really mind carrying a water bottle--and I like the size of my arms the way they are!"Dad laughed. "I wasn't thinking of your arms, Easton. Let's try your heart! I hope both of you will store God's Word in your heart and mind. Then when things get difficult, you can draw from those words of hope, comfort, and guidance. Knowing God's Word helps us remember what Jesus has done for us and that He's always with us. Like water in a dry desert, it will nourish you and help you grow in your relationship with Him." –Trudy Vander VeenHow About You?Have you been growing spiritually? Are you storing God's Word in your heart by reading the Bible and memorizing verses? Storing God's Word in your heart will help you understand how much Jesus loves you and who you are in Him. Read and study it so He can use it to guide you in your life, comfort you in hard times, and remind you of His promises. Today's Key Verse:Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You. (NKJV) (Psalm 119:11)Today's Key Thought:Soak up God's Word

Bible Reading: Revelation 7:9-12I can't even understand what they're saying," Ezra said as he and his family entered the church building. His family's car had broken down just over the Canadian border, so they now had to go to church at a place in Quebec, Canada, that his dad had heard about. Everything about the church seemed different to Ezra--the language most of all.When everyone started singing hymns, Ezra's dad passed him a book that said Cantiques on the front. "It's a hymnbook," Dad said. He flipped to the correct page and pointed to a line of words in the song. Ezra tried to follow along with the French song, but none of the words made any sense to him.Later, after church was over, Ezra noticed someone waving to him as he and his family left. He waved back, and his dad asked, "Who's that?""Oh, that's Jacque," Ezra explained. "I met him in Sunday school. He helped me understand the French on the papers the teacher handed out whenever there wasn't English underneath it.""I see," his dad said. "I suppose it was a bit confusing for you in the church service and in Sunday school.""You can say that again," Ezra replied."Going to church in a different country is an interesting experience, isn't it?" said Dad. "Though it can be confusing when things are different from what we're used to or we don't understand what's being said, it's good for us to worship God with Christians from other places in the world. We're all part of God's church and are brothers and sisters in Christ, who saved us by dying for our sins. We worship God in the same way, just in different places and languages." Dad smiled. "In fact, the apostle John wrote in the book of Revelation that there will one day be countless people of every nation, tribe, and language worshiping Jesus in heaven.""Including people from Quebec who speak French?" Ezra asked."That's right." Dad turned to see Jacque and his family leaving. "By the way, au revoir means 'goodbye' in French.""Au revoir, Jacque!" Ezra called."Au revoir, Ezra!" Jacque called back. "I hope to see you again!" –Ethan TerryHow About You?Have you ever attended a church in a different country or where a different language was spoken? Church is not simply a building--God's church is made up of everyone who trusts in Jesus, and He saves people from all over the world. Though we worship Jesus in different places and languages, we are all part of God's family, and one day we will worship Him together in heaven.Today's Key Verse:I saw a vast crowd, too great to count, from every nation and tribe and people and language, standing in front of the throne and before the Lamb. (NLT) (Revelation 7:9)Today's Key Thought:Christians live around the world