Give Us This Day (Vol. 4) by Our Daily Bread Ministries

Give US THIS DAY

Our Daily Bread for Families and Kids

This Book Belongs To:

WRITERS : Chia Poh Fang (CPF), Sophia Huang (SH), Leslie Koh (LK), Emily Lim-Leh (EL), Pauline Loh (PL), Sim Kay Tee (SKT), Ruth Wan-Lau (RW)

EDITORIAL : Asia-Pacific Content Development Team

DESIGNERS : Grace Goh, Joshua Tan

Unless otherwise indicated, all Scriptures quotations are taken from Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc®. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Images used under licence from shutterstock.com

These devotions are written specially for children and families. They can be read out loud during family devotional time. Children can also use these devotions for their personal time with the Lord. Through the use of stories and examples, these devotions aim to make the life-changing wisdom of the Bible understandable to children and families, and to challenge them to apply the Word of God to their daily lives.

Here are some tips on how to carry out family devotional time using these devotions:

• Set aside a specific time every day as family devotional time.

• Read the Bible passage out loud.

• Read the devotion out loud.

• Ask the children to summarize the devotion.

• Read the reflection questions out loud. Have a discussion about them.

• Summarize the key learning points for everyone.

• Pray, asking God to help everyone apply His Word to their lives.

As you use this book, we pray that you will enjoy meaningful moments with God and with one another!

The Our Daily Bread team

Rise Up and Act

Verse of the Day

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.

—James 2:17

READ

James 2:14–17

“How was Sunday School this morning?” Mom asked Noah as he entered the kitchen.

“Great!” Noah replied. “We learned about Acts 20:35: ‘We must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”’”

Mom smiled. “You’ve got a good memory! Hey, remember there’s a school outing tomorrow? Go pack before dinner, okay?”

“Oh, I forgot!” Noah exclaimed. “We’re visiting a home for the elderly—a bunch of old people in wheelchairs. It’ll be no fun! I don’t want to go—”

Suddenly, Mom gasped.

“My dough! It’s so small!” While listening to Noah, Mom had checked on her bread dough. She had expected it to rise, like it normally did. Instead, it was flat. “Oh, I forgot!” Mom exclaimed. “I didn’t add yeast to the dough when I made it!”

Mom sighed, then continued: “You know, Noah, this reminds me of your situation. Bread dough needs yeast to rise. Similarly, our faith needs action. It’s not enough for us to know Scripture, we need to rise up and act on what we believe in. James 2:17 tells us that faith without action is dead.”

is dead.

Prayer

myLord,helpmetoput Faithfaithintoaction. without works

“So,” Noah said, “I should act on the Bible verse I learnt in Sunday School, and go for my school trip?”

“Yes. The trip will be a chance for you to help those who may be weak, and give joy and service to those who may be lonely,” Mom explained.

Noah nodded. “You’re right, Mom. I guess I wouldn’t want my faith to be dead, like how your dough is so flat!”

“Everybody makes mistakes,” Mom chuckled ruefully. “Want to help me make more dough? You can make sure I add yeast this time!”—RW

Reflection

Think about examples of putting your faith into action. List down three ways you can practice what Scripture asks of us at home and in school. Then, act on it!

Getting Distracted

Verse of the Day

Do not turn to the right or the left; keep your foot from evil.

—Proverbs 4:27

READ

Proverbs 4:23–27

“Chelsea, how long have you been staring at the computer screen?” Dad said.

Chelsea jumped up from the couch, startled. Quickly, she closed a few websites she had been looking at.

“Mom said I could search the Internet for videos on how to knit,” Chelsea stammered. Although she had started off looking for such videos, she had ended up clicking on links to watch other kinds of videos.

“I see,” Dad said, eyeing Chelsea suspiciously.

Just then, Tessa, Chelsea’s little sister, burst into the living room. She was waving a laser pointer around and Bingo, the family cat, was chasing the red dot around the floor. He was so distracted that he accidentally banged into the coffee table.

“Miaow!” Bingo squealed.

“Tessa, stop!” Dad exclaimed. Firmly, he removed the laser

pointer from Tessa and switched it off.

“Tessa,” Chelsea said gently. “Listen to your big sister. Cats are easily distracted by laser red dots. Bingo got hurt because he was distracted. Let’s not distract the cat again, okay?”

Tessa nodded. Dad said to Chelsea, “Isn’t it true that we too can be easily distracted by bright, shiny objects, like computer screens? What we see on screens can cause us to lose track of time, and we may even end up viewing content that is not pleasing to God.”

Lord,keepmefrom displeasingYou whenIamusingthe trackcomputer—inkeeping of time and decidingwhattoclickon.

Dad continued: “During Bible Study group last week, we studied Proverbs 4:25-27, which says to look straight ahead, give careful thought to the paths for our feet, and keep from evil. When we’re on the computer, let’s not get distracted. Let’s be very careful what we click on and ask ourselves: would clicking on this be pleasing to God?”—RW

Reflection

What are some dangers of clicking on digital links without thinking? The next time you are using the computer, ask yourself: How can I best please God with my time and what I choose to view?

He Multiplies

Verse of the Day

Here is a boy with five small barley loaves and two small fish, but how far will they go among so many? —John 6:9

READ

John 6:1–13

“Mingwei! There you are!” Uncle Paul called out as he ran over.

“Hi, Uncle Paul,” Mingwei greeted his Sunday School teacher, while blowing bubbles into the air.

“Isn’t this a great picnic?” Uncle Paul exclaimed. The Sunday School Easter picnic was going well. Many newcomers had come, and it was almost time for Uncle Paul to lead a game that would explain the gospel message.

“Are you ready to help me?” Uncle Paul asked.

Mingwei sighed. Although he had agreed to help, he felt overwhelmed looking at the large crowd. “Uncle Paul, what if everyone thinks our game is silly? What if no one understands the gospel? Can we just not do the game?” he asked.

Uncle Paul could see how nervous Mingwei was. He smiled, and said: “Isn’t it amazing how a little bubble mix can produce so

many bubbles? That reminds me of how Jesus used five loaves of bread and two fish to feed five thousand people.

Remember John 6:1-13?”

Prayer

Lord,takemysimpleefforts to serve Youandmultiplythem.

Mingwei nodded. “There was a boy who offered Jesus his food. Jesus multiplied it to feed the hungry crowds, and there were twelve baskets of leftovers.”

“That’s right!” Uncle Paul said. “You see, when we offer our simple efforts to serve God, He can multiply them. Our efforts may seem limited, but God is not limited. He can certainly use our small game to reach out to many.”

Mingwei thought about the boy offering five loaves and two fish.

“Okay, Uncle Paul, I’m ready to help you,” Mingwei said. “But let’s pray first, and ask God to multiply our efforts to reach out to the crowds today.”

“Sounds like a great idea to me!” Uncle Paul said.—RW

Reflection

We can serve God by praying for others to know Him, telling them about the gospel, inviting them to church, or helping those who are in need. No effort is too small, and all efforts can be multiplied by God. What are three things you can do this week to serve God?

Be Loving

Verse of the Day

And you are to love those who are foreigners, for you yourselves were foreigners in Egypt.

—Deuteronomy 10:19

READ

Deuteronomy 10:12–19

“Polar bears are amazing!” Janice exclaimed. The family had just finished watching a nature documentary on life in the Arctic Circle.

Dad nodded. “The story of the mother polar bear and her cubs was very moving.”

Just then, Mom called out: “Janice, come help me take the clothes out of the washing machine and hang them up.”

Janice’s face fell. “Why is Auntie Naw gone and why do I have to do her job?”

The family’s domestic helper, Auntie Naw, was back in her home country for two weeks. During this time, the whole family was helping out with household chores that she normally took care of.

“Mom,” Janice whined, “let’s not allow Auntie Naw to go back to her country anymore!”

Dad and Mom stared at Janice in disbelief. Finally, Dad said

calmly, “Janice, remember the mother polar bear? The documentary said she spends up to eight months digging a den, giving birth, and feeding her cubs with milk from her body. During this whole time, she does not eat anything herself. She sacrifices herself for those she’s caring for. Auntie Naw does something similar. When she’s with us, helping us and caring for us, she’s sacrificing time with her family.”

Lord,thankYou for us,theforeignersamong carewhohelpusand for us.

Mom added: “So, when it’s time for her to go back to her country to rest for a while, we should let her go. At Moms’ Group in church last weekend, we studied Deuteronomy 10:12-19. We learnt that God loves the foreigners among His people, and we are called to love them too. Doing chores is one way to love Auntie Naw as it allows her to go home for a while. Don’t you think God would want us to show love to her?”—RW

Reflection

What are some ways we can show love to our domestic helper or the helpers we meet? Do we greet them and treat them with respect? Do we help out with chores when necessary?

It ’s the Same

Verse of the Day

For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. —Romans 6:23

READ Matthew 5:21–24

Take a guess: If a bowling ball and a feather dropped from the same height in a vacuum (airless) room, which one would hit the ground first?

Most people would say, “The bowling ball, of course!” However, they would be wrong. In a vacuum, all objects, no matter how heavy or light, will fall and hit the ground at exactly the same time! (Yes, even a pencil and a truck!)

This scientific fact was demonstrated by English physicist Brian Cox when he visited the world’s largest vacuum chamber as part of a BBC documentary. It reminds me of a spiritual fact—all sin, no matter how big or small, is the same in God’s eyes.

Let’s say there are three brothers and each of them is angry with his sister. The first brother thinks, “I hate my sister!” The second brother says it out loud. The third brother gives her a push out of hatred. In God’s eyes, a sinful thought, a sinful word, and a

sinful action are the same—each deserves the same judgment. Sin is disobeying God. And the consequence of all sin is the same: death (Romans 6:23).

Prayer

Lord,I trust in JesusacceptasmySaviorand salvation.Yourgiftof

Thankfully, God has sent His Son, Jesus, to die for our sins. If we trust in Jesus as our Savior, God forgives our sins, we no longer face His judgment, and we become part of God’s family. Not only that, God gives us the power to resist sin as we grow in trusting and obeying Him. This is the amazing gift of salvation God offers us: knowing how seriously God takes sin, won’t you accept His gift of salvation today?—RW

Reflection

What sinful thoughts, words, and actions have you noticed in yourself and the people around you? How can you trust and obey God more this week?

Roots

Verse of the Day

Blessed is the one . . . whose delight is in the law of the LORD . . . That person is like a tree planted by streams of water. —Psalm 1:1-3

READ Psalm 1:1–3

“Have you read the Bible today?” Mom asked.

“Not yet,” Micah replied.

“Well, don’t forget to find time for your daily devotion,” Mom said as she reached for a container of seedlings. “God’s Word is like the . . .”

“Mom, stop!” Micah interrupted. “What are you doing?”

Mom froze. “Relax, Micah. I’m just helping your brother transplant his seedlings.” Micah’s little brother, Callum, had planted seeds on moist cotton wool as part of a class activity. Now that the seedlings had grown, Mom was moving them into a pot of soil.

“But you need to transplant them carefully!” Micah exclaimed. “My science teacher said that if you separate the seedlings from their roots, they will die. Let me help you.”

Micah used a toothpick to slowly detach the roots of the seedlings from the cotton wool. Then, he gently buried the roots of

each seedling in soil.

Micah explained: “Plants need their roots to take in water and nutrients from the soil. This ensures they survive and grow.”

Prayer

Lord,helpmetoreadYour Word so that I can bear fruit for You.

“And similarly,” Mom added, “we need to be rooted in the soil of God’s Word and take in God’s Word in order to grow in our relationship with Him. Psalm 1:2-3 says that a person who meditates on God’s Word day and night is like a tree planted by water. It is a healthy tree that grows and bears fruit. In contrast, can you imagine being a tree that has no roots?”

Micah winked. “I know where you’re going with this, Mom. I think I better go and deeply root myself in God’s Word right now, yes?”

“That’s right!” Mom laughed.—RW

Reflection

Do you devote time to reading God’s Word every day? You could do this alone or with your family. Make plans to read God’s Word regularly. Try starting with the Gospel of Mark!

Troubled

Verse of the Day

[God] comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

—2 Corinthians 1:4

READ

2 Corinthians 1:3–7

Rui En was exceptionally quiet during dinner. She had been looking glum since returning home from school.

“Are you okay, Rui En?” Dad asked.

“Err . . . I’m fine. But my best friend Aisha is not doing so well,” Rui En Mombled.

“What happened to Aisha? Care to share?” Dad probed gently.

“Her parents have been quarrelling over money issues,” Rui En replied. “She’s scared that they may divorce. I wish I could help her. but I don’t know how.”

Dad squeezed Rui En’s hand. “I’m sorry that Aisha is going through such a hard time, sweetie. Do you remember what we learned in 2 Corinthians 1:4 about God, during our family devotions? He is the Father of compassion and God of all comfort. Do your best to make God visible to your friend.”

“But how can I do that, Dad?” Rui En asked.

Prayer

“Remember how God comforted you in your distress? Last week when you were disappointed by your test results, He cheered you up with a timely word during Sunday School, a surprise treat from a friend, and an exceptionally beautiful day—all these showed you that He is with you and He loves you. Comfort is made up of two Greek words, para and kaleo, which means “to call alongside”. Just as God comes alongside us in our distress, we can do likewise with our friends. Consider how God has comforted you and follow His example. That’s how you can make God visible to your friend.”

“Really?” Rui En smiled.

“Yes, dear,” Dad hugged Rui En.—CPF

Lord,thankYou for distress.comfortingmeinmy Helpmeto be a channel of Your comfort to others.

Reflection

Recall a time when you were comforted by God. How did God bring you through that tough time? Who can you share God’s comfort with this week?

The Invisible Sickness

Verse of the Day

All of us have become like one who is unclean, and all our righteous acts are like filthy rags; we all shrivel up like a leaf . . . our sins sweep us away. —Isaiah 64:6

READ

Isaiah 64:6

“Stop scratching! You need to put cream on your spots again!” Emma nagged her friend Jia Xi.

Jia Xi frowned. His eczema was flaring up again. His arms and legs were covered in dry and itchy rashes.

“Teacher Mabel,” Jia Xi said, while applying cream on his spots. “I can’t memorize Isaiah 64:6 because I don’t understand it. What does ‘All of us have become like one who is unclean’ mean?”

“It means that every one of us is unwell,” Teacher Mabel replied. “What?” Emma interrupted, shocked. “I’m not unwell! Jia Xi has eczema. But I’m perfectly well.”

Teacher Mabel replied: “We are all spiritually unwell, because we all sin, which means we all disobey God. Sin is a sickness.”

“Then, are we going to shrivel up like a leaf?” Jia Xi asked solemnly, pointing at the words of Isaiah 64:6, which were written on the whiteboard.

“We will, if our sickness is left untreated. When we are physically unwell, we take medicine to heal. Likewise, when we are ‘unwell with sin’, there’s medicine that will take away our sins: Jesus,” Teacher Mabel explained. “Jesus is God’s Son and when He died on the cross, He took away our sin. When we accept Him as our Lord and Saviour, Jesus heals us. He takes away our sin.”

Lord,thankYou for Jesus,who is the best theandonlymedicinefor sickness of sin.

“Just like this cream removes eczema spots?” Emma asked. “Even better,” Teacher Mabel replied. “This cream needs to be applied repeatedly. But Jesus takes away our sin immediately, and we are clean indeed. Jesus is the best and only medicine for the sickness of sin!”—PL

Reflection

Have you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior? He heals us of our sin permanently. No one else can save us, not even ourselves. Trust in the “medicine” of Jesus today.

Caterpillar Soup

Verse of the Day

So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

—2 Corinthians 4:18

READ

2 Corinthians 4:16–18

“Mom, our class caterpillar eats and poops all day,” Caleb said.

“Do you know that is to prepare it for its awesome next stage?” Mom asked.

“You mean meta . . . mor . . . What’s that word again?” Caleb said.

“Metamorphosis,” Mom said. “It means transformation. The caterpillar sheds its outer skin several times. Then it becomes a pupa or chrysalis.”

“That’s when it hangs around doing nothing much,” Caleb said.

“It seems that way,” Mom said. “But do you know that, unseen by the world, the caterpillar is undergoing a huge change? First, it digests itself and becomes like soup inside.”

“Ouch! That sounds painful,” Caleb said.

Mom smiled. “It’s a temporary pain to prepare it for something greater. Secondly, it grows new parts from that protein-rich soup.

Finally, it emerges as a glorious butterfly.”

“Do our insides change so much too?” Caleb asked.

“If we feed on the Bible daily, God can use His Word to change us to be more like Him. We may appear the same on the outside, but over time, we will reflect godly character in our words and actions, and transform into His likeness,” said Mom.

Lord,thankYouthat as I feed onYourWord,You are transformingmeinside toreflectgodlycharacter inmywordsandactions.

“Just like the caterpillar making something new,” Caleb said.

“Yes. As 2 Corinthians 4:18 says, ‘So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal,’” Mom said.

“There is one thing I will see differently now,” Caleb said. “I cannot drink green bean soup again!”—EL

Reflection

When you face difficulties at school or in other areas, should you simply give up or continue to work through these difficulties? If you rely on God’s Word for wisdom, God can use these temporary difficulties to transform you for greater things in the next stage of your life.

The Ant

Verse of the Day

Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! —Proverbs 6:6

READ

Proverbs 6:6–11

Joyanne looked up from her desk. Twenty minutes had passed and she was still stuck on the same math problem.

I feel like giving up, Joyanne thought.

“Cheer up!” a voice called out. Joyanne blinked.

“Yoo hoo! Down here!”

Joyanne blinked again. There was an ant talking to her from her table top!

“Hello, Joyanne. Be like me, and you’ll get better at math!” the ant said.

“What do you mean ‘be like you’? I don’t have six legs, and in fact, I don’t like ants, no offence!” Joyanne replied.

“None taken!” the ant said cheerfully. “You don’t have to look like me to be like me. I meant be diligent, like me. Ask me to build a supercolony 100 kilometers wide, and I’ll get it done. You know why? Because I’m diligent: I put in careful and

constant effort and I never give up. Over time, much can be achieved that way.”

Before Joyanne could reply, the ant read her thoughts: “You may feel paralyzed by fear of failure, but this can be overcome by diligence. Diligence is taking one step at a time, doing your best all the time, and you’ll be making progress in no time!”

applyLord,helpmeto constantcarefulandefforttomy beschoolwork.Helpmeto diligent,liketheant.

“Ouch!” Joyanne bumped her head on her chair as she woke up. Did I just dream that an ant was talking to me? she wondered. Then she remembered the Bible passage Grandma had read to her that morning—Proverbs 6:6-11.

I guess there is a lot I can learn from ants. And from the Bible. Let me read this math question carefully again. I won’t give up.

Joyanne picked up her pen.—RW

Reflection

Read Colossians 3:23. God wants us to be diligent and to work as if working for Him. How can you improve your attitude towards your school work this week, so as to please God more?

Water This Branch

Verse of the Day

I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit. —John 15:5

READ

John 15:1–8

“Grandpa, Dad and Mom will be home late and cannot do Bible study with me tonight. So, can I have longer TV time?” Rajesh asked.

Grandpa paused, and then said, “Come.”

Grandpa stuck a fallen branch into the soil of his potted pot. “Help me water this branch properly.”

“Are you joking?” Rajesh said. “This branch won’t grow like that.”

“You’re right,” Grandpa said. “John 15:5 says, ‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.’ Do you know what that means?”

Rajesh scratched his head.

“The vine, which is the stem, is the source of life for the branches, providing them with water and nutrients,” Grandpa said. “When a branch is apart from the vine, it cannot survive

and produce fruit.”

Rajesh looked at the fallen branch.

“So . . . if we don’t plug into God’s Word, we are like this fallen branch that cannot grow?”

“Exactly,” Grandpa said.

“When we ‘feed’ on God’s Word, we become fruitful. On our own, we cannot bear fruit.”

Lord,givemea willinghearttospendtime in Your Word sothatIcangrowtobemore like You and be fruitful.

“What does it mean to ‘bear fruit’?” Rajesh asked.

“The Bible says that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and selfcontrol,” Grandpa said. “When we spend time in a relationship with Jesus and His Word, we become more like Him in these areas.”

Rajesh nodded. “I understand now. Grandpa, shall we do Bible study together?”

Grandpa smiled. “We are already doing it. Come, let’s eat some fruit and we can talk more about fruit, vines, and branches.”—EL

Reflection

Do you feed on God’s Word regularly? As you spend time in God’s Word, you will become more like Jesus in the fruit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Verse of the Day

A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones. —Proverbs 14:30

READ

Proverbs 14:29–30

“Wow!” Grandpa exclaimed as he checked his smartphone.

“What’s going on?” Clare asked.

“My old school classmate went on a holiday to Bintan over the weekend. He just posted pictures on Instagram!” Grandpa explained.

“Ooh,” Grandpa continued.

“Now what?” Clare asked.

“My ex-colleague went to Japan for work and saw the sakura flowers blooming!” Grandpa said. “Ah! Auntie Isabelle just had dinner at a French restaurant. What delicious food!”

Clare looked at all the pictures on Grandpa’s social media feed. Grandpa sighed as he read the updates from his friends and relatives, and viewed the pictures they shared.

“Grandpa,” Clare said. “Are you feeling envious?” Grandpa gave Clare a weak smile.

“My school gave us a talk on the dangers of social media. My teacher said it can create feelings of envy. And, do you know what else?” Clare said.

“What?” Grandpa asked.

Prayer

Lord,keepmefrom beingenviousof others.I want to begratefulforthe givenblessingsYouhave me.

“Mrs Divynathan, our Sunday School teacher, taught us about Proverbs 14:30: ‘A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.’ Do you want rotten bones, Grandpa?” Clare giggled.

“My bones are already aching. I wouldn’t want them to start rotting too,” Grandpa smiled. “I guess I need to stop looking at social media, and start being thankful for the blessings I have, right?”

Clare nodded. “Mrs Divynathan said being thankful to God is one way to stop being envious. Is there something you can be thankful for today, Grandpa?”

Grandpa thought for a while, then hugged Clare. “Yes! I’m very grateful to God I have a granddaughter like you!”—RW

Reflection

Whom are you envious of, and why? Do you compare yourself to others on social media? Stop envy by being thankful to God. Make a list of ten things you can thank Him for. Remind yourself of this list every day this week.

The Only Way

Verse of the Day

Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

—John 14:6

READ

John 14:1–7

“Bernard, is something wrong?” Dad asked. Bernard and Dad were having their regular father-son outing. Bernard had wanted to eat his favorite waffles at the neighborhood shopping center, but now that the waffles had arrived, he seemed sad.

“My friend Colin said Christians are narrow-minded and unloving because we say that Jesus is the only way to heaven. What do you think, Dad?” Bernard said slowly.

Dad sensed that Bernard was troubled by his friend’s comments. After a while, he replied: “Bernard, suppose a fire broke out in this shopping center, and the fire alarm bells sounded. Then the security officer made an announcement, telling everyone to use only Exit C to leave the building, because all the other exits have been blocked by the fire. Is the security officer being unloving by telling everybody to use the only safe exit there is?”

Bernard looked up. “Of course not!”

“That’s right,” Dad said. “In the same way, God tells us the only way to Him is through Jesus. In John 14:6, Jesus said He is the way, the truth, and the light. He is the only way to the Father who is in heaven. That’s not narrow-minded or unloving, just like the security officer is not being unloving when he tells people that Exit C is the only safe way out.”

Lord,thankYou that Jesusistheonlyway sharetoheaven.Helpmeto thatlovingtruth with others.

Bernard’s eyes lit up. “I get it, Dad! We’re actually being loving by telling people that Jesus is the only way to heaven.”

Dad smiled. “You can tell Colin what I said, and ask him to talk to me if he has questions, okay?”—RW

Reflection

As Christians, we know the only way to heaven is through Jesus. Pray that you’ll be able to share this lovingly with your friends and family.

A Better Plan

Verse of the Day

In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.

—Proverbs 16:9

READ

Proverbs 16:1–3,9

“Daddy, did you ever want to be a pilot?” Having just watched a YouTube video on fighter jets, Anand felt inspired to fly a plane.

“Yes!” his father replied. “In fact, I even tried to join the Air Force when I was young.”

“Oh, wow!” Anand said. “Then how did you end up as a boring technician?”

“Hey! I’m not boring!” Dad protested in mock anger. “Well, I didn’t pass the eyesight and physical tests.”

“How disappointing!” said Anand. “You didn’t pray to God hard enough?”

“I did,” said Dad. “I asked God to bless my plans to be a pilot, but He had something better for me.”

“Better?” Anand said. “What could be better than flying an F-16?”

“Me.” Anand’s mother had overheard their conversation, and

chimed in. She continued: “If Daddy had become a pilot, he wouldn’t have met me at the company where we both worked. Then we wouldn’t have married, and there wouldn’t be you.”

Prayer

Lord,Icommitmy planstoYou.Guide Imystepssothatwhat dowillbepleasing toYou.MayYourwillbe done,not mine.

Dad laughed, then added, “That’s why Proverbs 16:9 says that while humans make their plans, God will determine their actual steps. Because God loves us, sometimes He says ‘no’ to our plan because He has a better one for us.”

“So we should ask God before making any plans?” Anand asked. “That’s right,” Dad replied. “Proverbs 16:3 tells us to ‘commit to the LORD whatever you do’. If we ask God before making any plans, He will guide us so that we will please Him and give Him glory in whatever we do.”

“Okay,” replied Anand, “but does that mean I can’t be a pilot?” His parents laughed. “Of course you can,” Mom said. “But, shall we pray about it first?”—LK

Reflection

What plans are you making today? Talk to God about them and ask Him what He thinks.

What Shall I Wear?

Verse of the Day

All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”

—1 Peter 5:5

READ

1 Peter 5:5–7

How much time do you spend putting on your clothes?

If you’ve woken up late and are rushing to get to school, you may put on your uniform quickly.

If it’s the weekend, you may spend a longer time deciding what to wear, depending on whether you’re going cycling, swimming, or just staying at home.

Some people like to wear the same tops and bottoms all the time. Others like new clothes. How about you?

Whatever you prefer, the Bible reminds us there is one thing we always need to clothe ourselves with—humility. In 1 Peter 5:5, the apostle Peter tells us to cover ourselves with the cloth of humility because God does not like proud people. This instruction is for all who love and follow God.

If I’m a humble person, it means I keep in mind that I’m a sinner, just like everyone else; I don’t think I’m better than anyone else.

A humble person will forgive others cheerfully. He will also admit his mistakes honestly.

When people compliment a humble person, he will give the glory to God, by saying, “All glory to God!” instead of accepting the glory for himself. He will also not be envious if someone else is complimented instead of him.

Prayer

Lord,I want to be knowhumbleeveryday.I Youopposethe proudandshowfavorto the humble.

Do you take out your “humble clothes” and wear them every day? Are you humble in thought, word, and action? Remember that God is against proud people, but blesses people who show humility.—RW

Reflection

Do you keep in mind that you are a sinner, like everyone else? Do you forgive others and admit your own mistakes? Do you give glory to God when complimented? In what areas of life do you need to be more humble this week?

The Stain

Verse of the Day

“Although you wash yourself with soap and use an abundance of cleansing powder, the stain of your guilt is still before me,” declares the Sovereign LORD. —Jeremiah 2:22

READ Jeremiah 2:22–25

“Hey, did somebody step on your blouse?” Bethany asked Sue-Ann.

Sue-Ann smiled and let Bethany examine the blouse she kept in her backpack as a spare.

“That is not a shoe print. It’s the print of an iron!” Sue-Ann replied. “My Mom accidentally left the hot iron on the blouse for too long!”

While the dirt of a shoe print can be washed off, the scorch mark of a hot iron is almost impossible to remove. Likewise, sin is a mark that is almost impossible to remove from our hearts. Sin is disobeying God and not trusting Him. We are all stained by the permanent mark of sin.

We can try to cover up our sin (“I’m a good person. See how many good things I do?”), pretend it’s not there (“There’s no sin in me. I’m just tired and stressed, that’s all!”), or try to forget about it

by focusing on happy things (“Just relax! Let’s have fun!”)

However, the scorch mark of sin remains. In Jeremiah 2:22, God said through the prophet Jeremiah to His people: “Although you wash yourself with soap and use an abundance of cleansing powder, the stain of your guilt is still before me.”

Prayer

Lord,I want Jesus to remove the stain of wantsininmyheart.IHimtobemy Lord and Savior.

But, don’t despair. God has provided us with a guaranteed way of removing sin, now and forever. It is the only way to remove sin: He sent His Son Jesus Christ to die for our sins on the cross. Jesus is God’s solution to removing sin. And it is 100 percent effective, no exceptions.

To remove the stain of sin, don’t cover it up. Don’t pretend it’s not there. Don’t forget about it. Invite Jesus to be Lord and Savior of your life.—RW

Reflection

Read John 3:36. When we believe in Jesus as our Lord and Savior, He takes away our sin and gives us eternal life. Talk to your parents more about what this means.

Don ’t Give Up!

Verse of the Day

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

—Galatians 6:9

READ

Galatians 6:7–10

Billy Graham was a famous American evangelist who told millions of people around the world about Jesus. But did you know that this great evangelist once nearly gave up?

When he was young, Billy felt that he was not very successful in sharing the good news. He asked himself: Is this what God wants me to do?

Before deciding to give up, Billy spent some time praying and seeking God’s guidance. And God answered him: Yes, this is what I want you to do.

So Billy continued to preach—for another 50 or more years. Because he didn’t give up, millions of people around the world accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior after hearing him speak.

In 1978, Billy came to Singapore, where he preached to more than 330,000 people over five days at the National Stadium. Billy died in 2018, at the age of 99, but many people still remember him

coming to Singapore. Try asking your grandparents or older relatives to see if any of them went to hear Billy speak!

Not all of us are evangelists like Billy. We may feel like giving up when others don’t respond to our efforts to share the good news. Perhaps a friend is just not interested in listening to us talk about Jesus, for example.

Lord,helpmenotto don’tgiveupwhenothers respondtomyefforts to share the goodnews.Givemenew strengthtodogood,forI knowitpleasesYou.

Don’t give up! Galatians 6:9 encourages us: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

If we persevere in sharing God’s love with others, through what we say and do, God will honor our efforts and show us the harvest He has prepared for us to reap.—LK

Reflection

What are some ways you can persevere in sharing God’s love when a friend doesn’t want to hear you talk about Jesus?

Still Joyful

Verse of the Day

Yet I will rejoice in the LORD, I will be joyful in God my Savior. —Habakkuk 3:18

READ Habakkuk 3:16–19

Rajan and his family had just returned from visiting Aunt Anika in hospital. She had cancer, and the doctors weren’t sure if she could be cured.

“Ma, if Aunt Anika is so sick, how come she’s still so joyful?” Rajan asked his mother. “She even talked about how good God is. How could she still praise God?”

Rajan’s mother nodded. “It’s amazing, isn’t it? Aunt Anika can remain joyful because she can look beyond her cancer and see who God is.”

Rajan looked puzzled, so his mother pulled out her phone and opened a Bible app to Habakkuk 3. “In verses 16 to 17, the prophet Habakkuk is shaking in fear because he knows that the Israelites’ enemies are going to attack,” she explained. “Yet he remembers that God can deliver them just as He did before. So he holds on to this assurance and continues to trust in the Lord.”

“Even if he can’t see it happening right now?” Rajan asked.

“Yes,” replied his mother. “This knowledge gives Habakkuk strength to walk confidently, as we see in verse 19. That’s why, even though he is afraid, he can still praise God and say, ‘I will rejoice.’”

Rajan reflected on this. “So we can always trust God to help us when we face trouble?”

“Oh, yes,” replied his Mom. “Always!”

Lord,IcanrejoiceinYou even when I face trouble,because I canalwaystrustYouto helpme.

Rajan looked assured. “Ma, can we pray for Aunt Anika? I hope God will keep giving her strength!”

His mother smiled. “That’s a good idea.”—LK

Reflection Prayer

How has God helped you in the past? Think about how you felt before and after those times.

Perfect Hair

Verse of the Day

Your beauty should not come from outward adornment . . . Rather, it should be that of your inner self . . . a gentle and quiet spirit. —1 Peter 3:3–4

READ

1 Peter 3:3–6

“Mom, can I buy heels?” Chloe asked as they entered a shoe shop.

“You’re a bit young to wear heels. Why don’t you get this pair of sandals?” Mom replied.

“No, I will look so short next to Kathy! Mom, why is my best friend Kathy so tall and slim, while I’m . . .” Chloe muttered.

“Chloe, you’re just right. You have lovely dimples, which you got from Dad, and curls, which you got from me,” Mom reassured Chloe.

“But it’s hard to wear skinny jeans with a figure like mine!” Chloe complained.

Mom smiled. “I talked about your outside, but your inside is even more beautiful. You’re patient, compassionate, and humble.”

Chloe looked embarrassed. “Aww . . . Mom, where did I get my inside from? You? Or Dad?”

Mom pondered the question before replying. “When you received

Christ into your life, you became a child of God. Walking with Him daily by reading His Word and praying has made you grow into His likeness. It’s Christ in you that makes you beautiful! In 1 Peter 3:3-4, Peter asks the Christian women he’s addressing to favor the inner beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit over outward beauty. Inner beauty is valued by God. That’s something we can all keep in mind, don’t you think?”

focusLord,helpmetooninnerbeauty,notouterbeauty.

At that moment, Kathy’s Mom entered the shoe shop. She sighed and said to Chloe’s Mom, “My daughter Kathy was just asking me why she was born with straight hair instead of lovely curls like Chloe!”

Chloe and her Mom exchanged grins.

Chloe said, “Mom, I’ll go look for Kathy. Like me, she needs to know that in God’s eyes, her inner beauty is more important than her looks!”—PL

Reflection

Do you feel upset because you don’t look the way you want? Read 1 Samuel 16:7. God cares about our heart, not our appearance. What can you do to remind yourself of this truth this week?

Words That Hurt

Verse of the Day

A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends.

—Proverbs 16:28

READ

Proverbs 16:21–28

The moment Mom entered the house, Lydia rushed over to hug her.

Before Mom could say anything, Lydia burst into tears.

“Did something happen in school today?” Mom asked. Showing Mom an instant message from her classmate, Lydia cried, “Samantha messaged the class group chat, telling everyone I called Lucy ‘stupid’. But that’s not true. Lucy is my best friend. And now, she won’t talk to me.”

The Book of Proverbs tells us that the words we use can hurt or help people. For example, Proverbs 16:21-28 talks about the wise person, who is godly, and the foolish person, who is wicked.

The wise person is careful and knows when to speak. He speaks loving and kind words that encourage and build up the hearer. “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body” (v.24 NLT). On the other hand, a foolish

person is careless with his words. He uses strong and harsh words to cause trouble. “A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends” (v.28).

Prayer

Lord,showme howtousemywords whencarefully,toknowisagoodtime tospeak,andtospeak lovingandkindwords thatwillencourage.

The apostle Paul tells us to use words to encourage others. “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (Ephesians 4:29 NLT). Let’s learn to use our words to build people up, not hurt them.—SKT

Reflection

Think of someone who needs your encouragement. What pleasant words would God want you to say to them?

Cicada Cycle

Verse of the Day

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come.

—2 Corinthians 5:17 ESV

READ

2 Corinthians 5:16–18

“Caleb, what’s your favorite subject in school?” Uncle Jack asked his nephew over dinner.

“Science!” Caleb exclaimed. “We are learning about the life cycle of a cicada. Did you know that the young cicada can live anywhere from 2 to 17 years underground before it emerges to become an adult?”

“That’s the singing insect, right?” Uncle Jack asked.

“Right,” Caleb said. “And after it comes out, it sheds off its outer skin to reveal a new body and new wings for its adult life.”

“That’s amazing,” Mom said. “That reminds me of 2 Corinthians 5:17: ‘Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come’” (ESV).

“You mean our old skin will split open like the cicada? Eww!” Caleb exclaimed.

Mom laughed. “The cicada sheds its exoskeleton. We shed

our old sinful nature. When we say sorry to God for our sins of disobeying Him and accept Jesus as our Lord, we are accepted into God’s family as His children. That’s what it means to be a new creation. And as we walk with Jesus day by day, allowing God’s Word to change us, we become more like Jesus.”

Prayer

Lord,thankYou that I become a new creation in Christ whenIacceptJesusas Lord.MayIallowYouto thatchangemedailyso Imaybecomemore like You.

Uncle Jack added, “God’s Word is still changing me every day, even though I’ve been a Christian for over 20 years! Walking with Jesus is a lifelong journey!”

“Uncle Jack, your skin’s peeling,” Caleb cried. “You haven’t finished shedding your old skin!”

“That’s sunburn, you cheeky boy!” Uncle Jack said. “Come, let me check you for any remaining exoskeleton!”—EL

Reflection

Ask God to help set you free from old bad habits of speech, actions, and thoughts, and change you so you can become more like Jesus.

Leftovers

Verse of the Day

Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops. —Proverbs 3:9

READ

Proverbs 3:9–10

“Mom, I’m starving. Can we eat now?” Daniel whined.

“Of course,” Mom replied. “There’s your dinner.” She pointed to a plate of chewed up chicken bones.

Daniel’s eyes grew wide. “Where’s my real dinner? These are leftovers from lunch. This isn’t a proper meal!”

“Well,” Mom explained. “I thought I’d give you the scraps from lunch, to show you how God might feel about your offering. Do you remember what you said to me when I gave you your monthly allowance this morning and reminded you to set aside a portion as an offering to God?”

“I said that I’d spend the money on what I want first, then give the remainder to God,” Daniel muttered.

“We give money to the church to serve God’s people and to expand His kingdom. Giving God your leftover money is a bit like giving someone a leftover meal,” Mom said. “God enables

us to earn all the money we have, and since He is our Lord, our money is His to begin with. Therefore, Proverbs 3:9 encourages us to honor the Lord with the firstfruits of our wealth. Firstfruits means we are to give to God first, not last; and to give him the best, not the leftovers. What do you think offering the firstfruits of your pocket money might look like?”

Lord,I want to honorYoubygivingYoua portionofmypocket butmoney,notasleftovers, first and foremost.

“It certainly wouldn’t look like a plate of chewed up chicken bones,” Daniel pursed his lips in embarrassment. “Mom, how much money do you think I should give? I’ll be sure to put it in the offering bag this Sunday.”

Mom hugged Daniel. “Let’s discuss how much to give over a proper dinner, shall we?”—RW

Reflection

In addition to money, we can also put God first by giving Him the best of our time. This may mean praying or reading His Word during a time when we are most fresh and alert. Make plans to reserve such time for God each day over the coming week.

Sponge

Verse of the Day

Whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. —Philippians 4:8

READ

Philippians 4:6–8

Samantha shut the book with a slam.

She had eagerly borrowed the latest book in her favorite series, but something was different. A new character had been introduced that used swear words frequently, and another new character often made lewd jokes.

I feel like I should stop reading this book, but I want to find out what happens to the main characters I love so much, she thought.

As Samantha pondered what to do, she recalled what Teacher Stephen, her Sunday School teacher, had shown them recently. He had soaked a sponge in a pail of smelly water that was black with grime and dirt. He then asked, “If I squeeze this sponge, what color do you think the water coming out would be?”

“Black!” everybody had screamed, holding their noses.

Teacher Stephen had explained that our brains are a bit like sponges. “If we expose ourselves to books, films, and music

that are unpleasing to God, we may start absorbing their values even without realizing it, and those values will eventually come out in what we say, do, and desire. Just like how if a sponge absorbs blackened water, it will give out blackened water when it is squeezed.”

chooseLord,helpmetotrue,noble, right,pure,lovely,and thinkadmirablethingsto chooseabout.Helpmeto the kind of media Iexposemyselftowisely.

Samantha opened up another book— the Bible. She searched for Philippians 4:8, the verse that Teacher Stephen had taught them.

“Whatever is true . . . noble . . . right . . . pure . . . lovely . . . admirable . . . think about such things,” Samantha read out loud.

The memory of the smelly, black sponge made her shudder. I certainly don’t want to be like that sponge! I’m going to return this book to the library tomorrow, she decided.—RW

Reflection

Think about a recent book, film, or song you’ve read, watched, or heard. Was there anything displeasing to God in it? How can you be more careful in choosing books, films, and music in the future?

5W1H

Verse of the Day

Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.

—Psalm 150:6

READ

Psalm 150:1–6

Writing “5W1H” on the whiteboard, Sunday School teacher Mrs Amy waited for the children to quieten down.

“5W1H. What’s that?” Keane asked.

“5W1H stands for Where, What, When, Why, Who, and How,” Mrs Amy replied. “Children, today I want to teach you a simple method to study the Bible for yourselves. When we want to know what a Bible passage means, we ask these six questions. Now, let’s study Psalm 150 together using 5W1H.

“Where do we worship? God is to be worshiped wherever He may be found, both ‘in his sanctuary’, and ‘in [the] heavens’ (v.1).

“What do we praise God for? We praise God for His ‘acts of power’ (v.2). Everything that God does deserves our praise, for He does these things for us.

“When do we praise Him? Every time He does something is an occasion for praise (v.2).

“Why do we worship Him? Because of ‘his surpassing greatness’ (v.2). Not only do we praise God for what He does; but we also praise God for who He is.

“Who is to praise God? Every creature, ‘everything that has breath’ (v.6) is to worship the Creator God.

Prayer

Lord,helpmeto studyYourWordso thatImayworshipYou more.

“How do we worship Him? With joyous singing, accompanied by musical instruments. Even dancing makes the list! (vv.3-6).

“Every line of Psalm 150 is a resounding call to praise God. He deserves our worship. May our worship today honor and bless our amazing, loving God!”

Mrs Amy looked at the children who were nodding their heads and writing down what she had said. “Now, let’s turn to Psalm 146. Let’s apply 5W1H to this next psalm, shall we?”—SKT

Reflection

Read Psalm 146 and apply 5W1H to it. Discuss your findings with your parents, and spend time praising God for who He is.

The Ocarina

Verse of the Day

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.

—2 Corinthians 4:7

READ

2 Corinthians 4:7–12

Dear Diary,

We had a guest speaker named “Uncle Leslie” at Sunday School today. He showed us a musical instrument made of clay, called an ocarina. It was very small, but you know what? When he played it, it sounded A-W-E-S-O-M-E! Like a beautiful flute!

Mom’s been encouraging me to take notes at church. Usually it’s hard, but today I managed to write down Uncle Leslie’s three main points, all related to the ocarina.

Uncle Leslie’s first point was that, like the ocarina, we are all clay in the potter’s hand (Isaiah 64:8)—God is the potter and we are under His authority. Because we are sinners, we deserve God’s judgment, but instead, God saved us! #verycool

Then, Uncle Leslie talked about how a potter shapes clay. He puts pressure on the clay, pierces holes in it, and then applies heat

to it. These steps help the ocarina become the instrument it’s meant to be. Uncle Leslie said that God may give us trials to grow our character and trust in Him (Romans 5:3-4). He encouraged us to always look to God, even when we face troubles. #veryverycool

Lord,thankYou forsavingme,shaping me,andusingmefor Yourglory.

Finally, Uncle Leslie said that God uses us for His glory. Just like the potter blows into the ocarina to make wonderful music, God can work through us. The Bible says we have treasure in jars of clay (2 Corinthians 4:7-9)—if we believe in Jesus as our Lord, we have the powerful treasure of eternal life! #veryveryverycool

I’m TOTALLY blown away by Uncle Leslie’s talk! I can’t wait to tell Dad and maybe we can search for videos of the ocarina on YouTube together! What an A-W-E-S-O-M-E Sunday!—RW

Reflection

Write God a “thank you” card, praising Him for giving you a powerful treasure (eternal life) in your jar of clay (yourself).

Arise and Sing!

Verse of the Day

Instead, be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord. —Ephesians 5:18–19

READ Ephesians 5:18–19

Chen Jie was taking part in the ARISE! children’s concert. Together with 30 other kids, he had been practicing praise songs every Saturday for three months. Today’s rehearsal had left him exhausted.

“Why do we need to sing to God?” Chen Jie asked out loud.

“Good question,” said Uncle Dee, who had been training the children in the songs and dances. “First, tell me: Why do you sing during birthday parties?”

“I guess it pleases the birthday kid,” Chen Jie said.

“Likewise, it pleases God when we sing praise songs to Him,” replied Uncle Dee. “Psalm 9:2 says, ‘I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.’ And who are we singing about?”

“God!” Chen Jie said.

“Yes, we sing to God and about God. When we sing, we

focus our minds, mouths, and hearts on God. And singing worship songs is an important way to thank God for loving us.”

“That’s true,” Chen Jie said, as he started humming a worship song.

“Kids, how many people are coming to our ARISE! concert?” Uncle Dee asked.

“500!” everyone sang.

Prayer

lipsLord,givemeopen tosingtoYou. thankIsingtopraiseYou, You,and tell others about You.

“Yes, when we sing about God, we are also telling our audience about Him! And the words we sing encourage and strengthen those who are listening,” Uncle Dee said.

“I didn’t know there are so many reasons why we sing to God!” Chen Jie said as he leaped to his feet. “Come on, let’s sing! What are you all waiting for?”—EL

Reflection

Do you enjoy singing songs of praise to God? Or, do you feel shy? Remember the reasons we sing to God and make it a point to sing joyfully to Him the next time you can!

Thank You, Teacher

Verse of the Day

Continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it. —2 Timothy 3:14

READ

2 Timothy 1:3–7

“Do you know when your Sunday School teacher’s birthday is?” Mom asked one day while driving home from church.

“No. Why?” Shawn looked up from his mobile phone.

“Perhaps you could do something to express your gratitude towards Teacher Joy on her birthday,” Mom replied.

Shawn gulped. “That’s so random, Mom!”

“How so?” Mom asked. “Aren’t you grateful to have a teacher like her who labors hard to teach you God’s truth, making sure it’s fun and relevant? You do know that it’s no easy feat to keep you engaged, right?”

“Err . . . yeah . . . but giving her a birthday present—that’s so weird!” Shawn exclaimed.

“Well, that’s just an idea. Maybe you could write her a card instead?” Mom said.

“Seriously?” Shawn muttered.

“Yes, seriously,” Mom smiled. “It’s always good to thank those who have taught us. We can also thank those who teach us God’s Word by continuing to follow what we have learned from them. That’s what Paul encourages his disciple Timothy to do in 2 Timothy 3:14. When Timothy continued strong in the faith, Paul was encouraged.”

theLord,thankYoufor teachersYou haveplacedinmylifeto teachmeYourways. themHelpmetonottake followforgranted,buttotheirgoodexamplesastheyfollowYou.

Mom continued: “So, what did you learn in Sunday School today? And, how can you apply the lessons to your life?”

Shawn thought hard. He was tempted to return to his mobile phone and continue playing his favorite game, but he decided to put it aside and continue the conversation with Mom instead.

I apply 2 Timothy 3:14 when I follow what Teacher Joy teaches me. And when I listen to Mom, who teaches me God’s Word as well, thought Shawn with a smile.—CPF

Reflection

How can you thank your Sunday School teachers, parents, grandparents, and other family members who teach you about God and His ways?

I Don ’t Need to Know

Verse of the Day

I don’t concern myself with matters too great or too awesome for me to grasp.

—Psalm 131:1 NLT

READ

Psalm 131

Hannah missed Mom, who had left for a business trip to Vietnam early in the morning. Using Dad’s smartphone, Hannah called and spoke to Mom.

After the conversation, Dad explained to Hannah the wonders of smartphone technology, which had allowed her to interact with Mom in real time, even though she was thousands of miles away.

Not understanding a word of Dad’s technical explanation, Hannah blurted out, “Dad, I don’t need to know how the phone works. All that matters to me is that I can talk with Mom!”

Even though he was the king, David, the writer of many psalms in the Bible, knew that there was a lot more about God and His ways that he simply could not comprehend. Like Hannah, he said, “I don’t concern myself with matters too great or too awesome for me to grasp” (Psalm 131:1 NLT). David was not worried that he couldn’t understand everything. Like little Hannah enjoying the

presence of her mother, David calmly trusted God with a simple and childlike faith. Like Hannah, David was just happy that he could talk to God.

Prayer

Lord,Imaynot understand Youeverything,butItrust talkingandwanttoenjoy toYou.

God wants us to know Him. How do we get to know God? Firstly, He has revealed Himself to us through His Word, and through His Son Jesus Christ. Secondly, He’s given us the Holy Spirit to be our guide, companion, and comforter. There will be many things we do not know about God. But, like David, we just need to “put [our] hope in the LORD” (Psalm 131:3) and enjoy talking to Him.—SKT

Reflection

Spend some time talking to God. Thank Him that you can talk to Him because you know Him from His Word, you come to Him through Jesus, and you are guided by the Holy Spirit.

Rules

Verse of the Day

“Honor your father and mother”—which is the first commandment with a promise. —Ephesians 6:2

READ

Ephesians 6:1–3

When our family got a dog, he was a puppy so tiny, he could fit snugly into a box for children’s shoes. We named him “Pebble”.

“For the first week, put Pebble in an enclosure 1 meter long and 1 meter wide,” the vet advised. He explained that the house could be a dangerous place for a little puppy. It was important for him to slowly learn where he couldn’t go, what he couldn’t touch, and what he couldn’t do.

For example, all puppies need to learn not to dash out the front door of the house and get lost in the outside world. We had to train Pebble to wait at the front door for someone to take him outside.

“Keep your puppy safe, healthy, and happy,” the vet advised.

Like puppies, children need to follow the rules given to them. God has put your parents in charge of guiding you, so that you will be safe, healthy, and happy.

Ephesians 6:2 tells us that we are to honor our parents. This commandment is first found in Exodus 20:12 and it is the first commandment with a promise: “so that it may go well with you and that you may enjoy long life” (Ephesians 6:3).

Prayer

enjoyLord,helpmeto obeyingthe rules Mom and Dad giveme.Helpmeto word,honortheminthought, and action.

God is pleased when we obey our parents joyfully and trust them wholeheartedly. That’s what it means to honor them. Just as we as a family taught Pebble rules, most parents set rules and guide their children for their own good, out of love. So, let’s honor Mom and Dad. It is not just for our own good, it is pleasing to God too!—RW

Reflection

Name a few rules your parents have given you. Discuss with your parents why these rules help you and please God.

Protective Gear

Verse of the Day

[The Lord] guards the course of the just and protects the way of his faithful ones.

—Proverbs 2:8

READ

Proverbs 2:1–11

Barry was excited to go rollerblading with his friends. Putting on his inline skates quickly, he was about to race to the park in front of his block when Dad stopped him.

“Barry, wear your wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads. And put on your helmet too!”

“But Dad,” Barry protested, “my friends will think I’m a softie if I wear them.”

Dad insisted, “Safety equipment protects you from serious injuries if you fall.” Reluctantly, Barry put the safety equipment on.

Later, during evening devotional time, Mom asked Barry to read from Proverbs 2:1-11. Earlier, Barry had fallen as he skated down a ramp at the park.

“What would have happened if you had not been wearing your protective gear?” Mom asked.

Sheepishly, Barry replied, “I would have suffered serious injuries.

Thankfully, I just have a minor bruise from the accident.” He looked at the scratches on his arm.

Lord,make me wiseandprotectmeasIread Your Word everyday.

“Yes, son. Today’s Bible passage, Proverbs 2:1-11, likens God’s Word to protective gear,” Mom continued. “You need protective gear when you rollerblade. Likewise, you need God’s Word to protect your life. God’s Word makes you wise and it shields, guards, and protects you from the dangers of this world.”

Barry nodded his head. After experiencing the minor bruise that morning, he couldn’t imagine how painful serious injuries would have been.

“Yes, Mom. It’s so good that God’s Word can protect me. I’m going to treasure it and read it every day.”—SKT

Reflection

Think of one instruction in God’s Word that helps to protect you from danger. Read the Ten Commandments in Exodus 20:1–17. Reflect on how these rules shield you from harm.

One of Us

Verse of the Day

Because [Jesus] himself suffered when he was tempted, he is able to help those who are being tempted. —Hebrews 2:18

READ

Hebrews 2:9–18

On 15 February 1921, Dr Evan Kane performed a groundbreaking surgery. For almost the first time, local anesthesia—a drug injected to numb pain—was used in major surgery. Dr Kane believed that local anesthesia was safer than putting a patient completely to sleep. However, patients were squeamish at the thought of being awake during their own surgery. Others were fearful that the anesthesia might wear off too soon.

So Dr Kane decided to perform the surgery on himself (using mirrors)! The doctor became the patient, to show other patients how he would be able to help them. As he said later: “I believed that I could exemplify in my own case that the operation could be done without the use of a general anesthetic, thus saving many individuals who have heart or other serious troubles from the troubles of a general anesthetic.”

Unbelievable, huh? Well, Jesus Christ did something even

more amazing for us. He “suffered death, so that by the grace of God he might taste death for everyone” (Hebrews 2:9).

Imagine that! Jesus died so that we need not fear death anymore. That’s not all. Jesus left the glories of heaven to live on this earth as one of us, sharing in our weakness and pain. Why? So that when you hurt, you will know that Jesus understands and can help you (v.18).

Lord,thankYou for sobecomingoneofus that we can run to You with full confidence that You understand and canhelpus.

So when you feel that no one understands, remember: Jesus placed Himself in our shoes to suffer our pains and feel our fears. He knows and He cares.—CPF

Reflection

What hurts can you bring to God today, believing that He can and will help you?

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A devotional that explains God ’s Word through engaging stories.

With devotions that children can connect with and questions to get them thinking and talking, this 31-day devotional will encourage families and their young ones to spend time in God’s Word and draw closer to Him.