Keys for Kids - daily devotions and Bible stories for kids

Bible Reading: 1 John 5:10-13 Bruno frowned and kicked at a stone as he walked home from school. As he approached Mr. Burk's house, he saw his Sunday school teacher working in the yard. "Hi there, Bruno," said Mr. Burk. "How are you today?" "Not great," muttered Bruno. He shuffled his toe in the dirt. "I'm always getting into trouble at school." He sighed. "Since I've been coming to your Sunday school class, I've been trying to change and be good--but I just can't seem to do it. Today I had to stay in at recess because I talked back to a teacher." Mr. Burk leaned on his rake. "I'm sorry to hear that," he said. Bruno shrugged. "Like I said, I'm trying to do better, but I guess it's hopeless." "Oh, no, no, no!" said Mr. Burk. "It's not hopeless. I think you're just depending on the wrong things to help you." He picked up a small dead branch that had fallen from a tree. "I was going to plant some fruit trees out back. I'll water them and put fertilizer around them, and soon they'll bear juicy peaches and apples for me to eat." He held up the dead branch. "Why don't you help me plant this one?" Bruno laughed. "That's a dead stick. You know it won't grow anything." Mr. Burk looked at the stick. "True," he said. "A dead stick can't produce fruit. And you know what, Bruno? You may be like this stick--you don't have true life either if you haven't trusted Jesus as your Savior. Have you done that?" "Well, no, I…I…" Bruno stammered. "I thought if I just went to church and read the Bible and did stuff like that, I'd be all right." "You said you want to do better, but you need Jesus for that," said Mr. Burk. "Even if you read the whole Bible and go to church and pray, you can't produce good fruit unless you have spiritual life that only comes through Jesus. You need Him to free you from sin and give you the power of the Holy Spirit so you can live in a way that shows others His love." Mr. Burk smiled at Bruno. "Would you like me to explain how you can receive real life through Jesus?" Bruno looked at the dead stick lying on the lawn and nodded. –Mary Rose Pearson How About You? Has Jesus given you spiritual life? Are you bearing good fruit by the power of the Holy Spirit? Or do you just try hard to be good only to fail? Just like a dead stick can't produce fruit when it's not connected to a living tree, you can't live the Christian life without Jesus. Trust Him as your Savior and receive new life 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: Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life. (NIV) (1 John 5:12) Today's Key Thought: Jesus gives life

Bible Reading: Exodus 4:10-12; Ephesians 6:18-20 As the curtain dropped at the end of her school play, Hazel's dad and brother made their way backstage. "You remembered every line perfectly," Dad said, giving her a hug. Hazel smiled. "Before the curtain rose at the beginning, I was so scared! I didn't see how I was going to get through it without my script in front of me. But when I had to start talking, the words just came back." "What's a script?" asked Hazel's little brother, Tommy. "It's a copy of the play," said Hazel. "On my copy, I marked the words I had to say." She smiled at a girl walking by. "Good job, Mia!" "Thanks," murmured Mia. "You did good too, Hazel." As Hazel and her family drove home, Hazel spoke. "Remember Mia? She seems really unhappy lately. I feel like I should talk to her about it, but I'm afraid I might say the wrong thing." She looked at the script she held in her hand. "I wish there were a script for that sort of thing." "Well, you're in good company," Dad said. "I think the apostle Paul was sometimes a bit concerned about saying the wrong thing too." "No way!" said Hazel. "Paul was one of the greatest preachers ever!" "But he was human--just like you. And he had a big responsibility too--helping people understand how much God loves them and what Jesus did to save them. Do you know what he did about it?" "Maybe he prayed," suggested Tommy. "Yes, he did," answered Dad. "And he also asked his Christian friends to pray that God would put the right words into his mouth." "Sort of how the right words to the play popped into my head tonight?" "Sort of," said Dad. "Only the words he spoke came from God, not from a script. You may not know the right thing to say to Mia, but God knows exactly what you need to say--and what Mia needs to hear. Pray about it, and if you believe God wants you to talk with her, go for it, trusting Him to help you. I'll pray for you too." –Heather Tekavec How About You? Does the idea of talking to others about Jesus scare you? Do you worry you might say the wrong thing or not be able to think of anything to say at all? Ask God to help you speak the right words at the right time--just like He helped Paul and Moses (see today's Bible reading.) Trust God to give you the words you need when you need them. Today's Key Verse: Now go! I will help you speak and I will teach you what to say. (CSB) (Exodus 4:12) Today's Key Thought: Let God help you speak

Bible Reading: Psalm 130 Where's Pippi? wondered Monica when she got home from school. She always meets me at the door. Then she saw it--a trail of tissue paper from the bathroom down the hall. "Oh, you naughty puppy! Come here, Pippi!" A brown ball of fur came slinking out from under Monica's bed, tail tucked between its legs. Monica laughed. "You know you're guilty, don't you?" she said, picking up the puppy and rubbing her fur. "But I love you anyway, and I forgive you. Let's get this mess cleaned up." That night, Monica had trouble sleeping. She couldn't forget something bad she had done that afternoon. She tossed and turned as it went over and over in her mind. Why did I do that? she kept asking herself. Jesus must be so mad at me. I wish I could hide! She pulled the blanket over her head, but it didn't help. Suddenly, Monica shivered. "Mom!" she called. "Mom!" The light came on, and Monica blinked as she lowered the blanket and saw Mom's concerned look. "Oh, Mom," said Monica, wide-eyed. "It seemed like Jesus was right here!" "Why does that scare you?" asked Mom. "You know Jesus loves you and is always with you." Monica's voice shook. "Well, I…I stole some money from Saralyn. It was on her desk, and--" "And that's why you're afraid." Mom put her arms around Monica. "Remember how Pippi tried to hide after dragging the tissue paper down the hall from the bathroom?" Monica nodded. "Yes, but it didn't work. I knew where she was hiding and what she'd done. She knew too. I could tell she was ashamed, and I forgave her." "Well, we often try to do the same thing with God," said Mom. "When we sin, the sense of God's presence can be frightening and make us feel ashamed. But we don't ever have to hide from God in shame, because Jesus took the guilt and shame of our sins on Himself when He died on the cross. When we confess our sin to Him, He will forgive us, just like you forgave Pippi." "I'll ask Him to forgive me now," said Monica. "And I'll return the money tomorrow." Together, Mom and Monica bowed their heads and prayed. Then Monica snuggled down under the covers, and soon she was fast asleep. –Barbara J. Westberg How About You? Are you ever afraid of God and want to hide from Him? That usually means you know you've done something wrong and feel ashamed of it. But you can't hide anything from God--He already knows all about it, and He wants to forgive you! Jesus paid for all your sins so you wouldn't have to hide. Tell Him what you did and ask His forgiveness. He loves you and wants to give you peace. Today's Key Verse: If we confess our sins, God will forgive us. (ERV) (1 John 1:9) Today's Key Thought: Confession brings forgiveness

Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18; James 1:17 "What a great day!" Colby told his dad as they said goodbye to their friends at the park. They'd joined other families to hang out and have fun. Colby's two best friends, Asher and Arlo, had been there too. As Colby and his father turned toward the sidewalk, they spotted an ice cream truck parked there. "Please, Dad!" Colby cried. "Just this once!" Dad smiled. "Sure, just this once." He handed Colby some money. Colby rushed to the truck and requested his favorite sweet treat--the strawberry shortcake bar. He eagerly unwrapped it and took a bite as the ice cream truck drove away. Just then, Colby tripped on a curb. The delicious dessert fell from his grasp, landing in the dirt. "No!" Colby yelled. He knew it could not be rescued and began to cry. "I'm sorry, buddy. I wish I could buy you another one, but the truck just left." Dad hugged Colby and then picked up the filthy shortcake bar and tossed it in the trash. Walking home, Colby said, "Dad, I had fun today until I dropped my ice cream. That spoiled my whole day." "I know the ruined ice cream bar was a disappointment, but did it really wreck your entire day?" "Maybe," Colby replied. "Colby, remember last summer when you trusted Jesus to forgive your sins and be your Savior?" Dad asked. Colby nodded. "Well, now you are God's child, and do you know what He wants for His children?" "What, Dad?" "He wants us to be grateful. He tells us to be thankful in all situations." "I am not thankful I dropped my ice cream!" Colby announced. "You don't have to be, buddy. God tells us to be grateful in all things--not for all things. When we remember that Jesus saved us and promises us eternal life, we can be thankful for the joy and hope we have in Him, even when bad things happen. And we can thank Him for the good things in our lives too. Can you think of anything from today that you would like to thank God for?" "Yes! My friends, Asher and Arlo; the kickball game at the park; and one more thing, Dad." "What's that?" "I'm thankful we have more ice cream at home!" –Allison Wilson Lee How About You? Do you sometimes struggle to give God thanks? Even when we feel frustrated or sad, we can always find reasons to say thank you to God. We don't have to feel grateful for scary or bad things that happen, but, when we remember that Jesus died for us so we could have eternal life with Him, we can learn to be thankful in all situations, even difficult ones. Today's Key Verse: In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (NKJV) (1 Thessalonians 5:18) Today's Key Thought: You can always thank God

Bible Reading: Colossians 3:23-24 Plink! Plink! Plink! One by one, Abbie slowly picked out the notes of the music for her piano recital. This is so hard, she thought. I'm not sure I'll ever get it good enough to play in front of a bunch of people! Abbie struggled on for a few minutes, then tossed the music book on the floor and began to play a song from memory. This is much more fun, she told herself. Later that day, Abbie helped Mom plant seeds in the garden. "You always have such pretty flowers, Mom," said Abbie. "Grandma says you have a green thumb--whatever that means." Mom laughed. "She means I have a talent for growing plants. That may be true, but I have to do a lot of work too. Thomas Edison, the great inventor, once said, 'Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration.' I think he's right." "You do work hard in the yard--and you make me work hard too!" Abbie teased. "I don't mind gardening, but I don't have a green thumb like you do." "What do you like to do?" asked Mom. "What are you good at?" "Hmm." Abbie thought for a moment. "Playing the piano!" Then she frowned. "But I'm already tired of practicing my recital piece. I wish I didn't have to practice so much." "So I guess music is your green thumb area," said Mom. "You definitely have a talent for playing the piano. But if you want to develop that into something worthwhile, you'll have to work hard at it--just like I have to work hard at gardening even though I have a green thumb. But I know you can do it. God is the one who gave us our talents, and He will help us work to develop them so we can share our gifts with others and point them to Jesus." Abbie grinned. "But I don't think it's fair--I can help you in the garden, but you can't help me play the piano." "That's true," said Mom. "But I'll tell you what. When we're done here, I'll use another one of my talents while I listen to you rehearse your piece--I'll work on sewing your dress for the recital. How about that?" Abbie smiled and nodded. – Mary Rose Pearson How About You? What are you good at? There are many ways you can use your talents to share good things with others and point them to Jesus. They can range from performing in front of people to serving quietly in the background. Singing, speaking, making things, cooking, writing, planning activities--whatever you do well is a talent God can use. Don't worry about what other people think--trust God to help you develop your talents and use them for His glory. Today's Key Verse: Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. (NLT) (Colossians 3:23) Today's Key Thought: Develop your talents

Bible Reading: John 3:16-18 "Hey, Dad!" Eleanor said as she bounced into the den. "What are you doing?" Dad looked up from the papers on his desk and smiled at Eleanor. "Just going through some paperwork. How was school?" "All right," Eleanor replied. "I got a B on my science test today." She paused, and after a moment, frowned. "Is your paperwork for that insurance stuff you were talking about with Mom? I overheard you talking about it when I was studying yesterday, but I don't understand what it means." Dad shifted in his chair. "It's called life insurance," he began. "If something happened to me and I died, Mom would need money to pay for my funeral and to take care of you. She wouldn't be able to pay for all that herself. But with life insurance, the insurance company helps pay for everything." "Oh," Eleanor said, turning the idea over in her mind. Suddenly, a thought struck her. "Are you getting this insurance because you're sick?" she asked. "I don't want you to die--we'd never be together again!" "It's all right, Eleanor, I'm not sick," Dad said, giving her a hug. "But even if I did die, it doesn't mean you'd never see me again. Life insurance can only help pay for things on earth when someone dies, but I have the assurance of eternal life with Jesus, who paid a much greater cost--He died to pay the price of my sin. Because I trust in Him, I know that I'll go to heaven to be with Him when I die, and one day He will raise me from the dead! No life insurance company could ever promise anything as good as that," Dad said, pointing to the papers on his desk. "Do you have the assurance of eternal life too, Eleanor? Have you trusted Jesus as your Savior? If so, then you and I will be together with Him forever." "I've heard a lot about trusting in Jesus at church, but I--I guess not," Eleanor stammered. "Will you help me pray so I can tell Him I want to do that now, Dad?" "Absolutely," Dad replied, and they both bowed their heads. – Ethan Denny How About You? Do you have the assurance of eternal life with Jesus? The price of your sin is too high for you to pay, but Jesus paid it for you when He died on the cross. When you trust Him as your Savior, He promises you eternal life with Him. Trust in Him today and know that you'll 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: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. (NKJV) (Romans 6:23) Today's Key Thought: Receive the assurance of eternal life

Bible Reading: Psalm 55:16-17, 22 As Jeremiah looked out the window at the falling rain, he felt like his life was as dismal as the day. Dad left home, and we don't even know where he is, he thought. Now Mom is sick, and it's up to me to look after her and my two little sisters. But how can I do all that plus run my lawnmowing business and go to school? I sure can't do it all alone. Just then the city bus pulled up to the corner and an elderly woman got off. It was Granny Gresham, a nearby neighbor, and she had a big suitcase. The wind was so strong that Granny could scarcely take a step forward. Jeremiah hurried to pull on a raincoat and headed for the door. "I'm going to help Granny Gresham," he called to his mother. "She's out in the storm." Jeremiah ran over to their neighbor and took the suitcase for her. When they finally reached her home, she turned to him gratefully. "What would I have done without your help?" She smiled. "How about a cup of hot cocoa?" "Thanks, but I have to hurry home," replied Jeremiah. "Mom's sick." "Oh, that's too bad," said Granny. "Now just remember that you don't have to face your problems alone, Jeremiah. I know you love the Lord, so don't forget that He's always with you, ready to take your burdens. The Bible tells us that Jesus is a Savior who empathizes with our struggles because He knows what it's like to live in this difficult world. Tell Him all about what you're going through and trust Him for help." As Jeremiah hurried home, he thought about Granny's words. Jesus, he prayed silently, I feel like I have more stuff to take care of than I can handle, so thank You for having Granny remind me that You're with me all the time. Please show me how I can help Mom and take care of my sisters along with school and everything else. That night, the phone rang. It was Granny. "Will you carry my suitcase once more?" she asked. "I'm coming to your house to help out until your mom is well." Jeremiah grinned. Thank You, Jesus, he prayed after Granny hung up. Thank You for helping me. – Mary Rose Pearson How About You? Do you have problems you don't know how to handle? Do you think there's no one who can help you? If you know Jesus, He invites you to boldly come to Him. He understands what it's like to face worries and troubles, and He has the power to solve every problem. Talk to Him about your situation, and trust Him for help and direction. Give Him your burdens and He will carry them. 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: Give your burdens to God

Bible Reading: Psalm 36:7-9; John 14:26-28 Stroking the hen's feathers, Rowan grinned as the chicks tugged at his pants, then scuttled under their mother. "Hi, girls." His sisters Opal and Sylvie joined him, peering under the hen at the chicks, but they knew better than to touch. "They're so cute!" Five-year-old Rosalind tried to grab a chick, but the chick's mother puffed up and jumped at her defensively. "Rosie, you have to be gentle, or else Luna will do that again," Mom said as she walked up and peeled off her gardening gloves. "She's a very protective mother, you know." The chicks at last were allowed to wander out, but when the dog, Arabella, came bounding up, the chicks--Stella, Sunshine, Nova, and Aurora--scurried to take cover under Luna's outspread wings. Rowan hopped up and grabbed Arabella's collar. "Whoa there, girl. You can't do that. See, you've frightened them." Arabella whined apologetically. "You know," Sylvie said slowly, "this reminds me of a verse I read this morning." "What?" Opal cocked her head. Mom smiled. "Let me guess. 'People take refuge in the shadow of your wings'?" "Exactly!" Sylvie laughed. "How did you know?" "We're all reading the Psalms." Mom shrugged. "That was in the one for today." "What does that mean?" Rosalind wanted to know. "Think of it this way. When the chicks are afraid, where do they go?" "Under Luna," Rowan replied promptly. "Why?" "Because they like her?" Rosalind guessed. "Not exactly." Mom smoothed Rosalind's hair. "They go there because they are safe there. Arabella can't reach them there because Luna will protect them. And they know that, by instinct. It's a little like that with us and God. Sometimes we're afraid, or worried, or we feel alone. But like those little chicks, we can take shelter under God's wings. And He is able to protect us far more than Luna could ever protect her chicks. Jesus defeated sin and death to save us, and He promises to always be with us and take care of us." "So even though Mimi and Papa are sick, and there's a war going on, and we're sometimes so scared we don't know what to do, we can always run to God." Rowan smiled. "Just like Luna's chicks run to her." – Ellie Shirk How About You? What do you do when you feel afraid or worried? We all get scared sometimes, and we often forget that Jesus is right there with us, holding us. Even when we don't feel it, He is near. You can always run to Him, and He will shelter you and give you peace. Take refuge in the shadow of His wings. Today's Key Verse: In me [Jesus] you may have peace. In this World you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. (NIV) (John 16:33) Today's Key Thought: We can take shelter in God

Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:9-13 "Did you see my hit, Dad?" Caden asked as he climbed into the pick-up. "My first of the season!" Dad nodded. "You know, it could have been a double if you had stepped into the swing." "I know, but..." Caden quieted. Mom opened the front door as they drove up to the house. "How was the game, guys?" "I got a hit," said Caden softly as Dad shuffled away to weed the flower beds. "Great!" said Mom. "I'm sorry I couldn't be--" But Caden was already inside. He surveyed the kitchen for a snack as Mom followed him into the room. "I tried a new cookie recipe today." Mom held out a plate and Caden took one. "A perfect way to celebrate your hit." Caden didn't respond. "Did something happen at the game, Caden? What's wrong?" "Why can't Dad ever say 'good job'? It's just two words. Instead, he always points out what could be better." "Dad is proud of you, Caden. I'm sure of it. He just forgets how important it is to say it. Maybe you should talk to him about it and tell him how you feel." "I guess." Caden bit into his cookie. "Hey, Mom, these cookies are a little burnt." Just then Caden's sister Emily bounded into the kitchen. "I did it! I finally finished the scarf I've been knitting." She held it up for them to see. Caden glanced at it and frowned. "Aren't scarves supposed to be longer than that?" Emily glared at him and then walked back to her room. "What did I say?" asked Caden. Mom touched his shoulder. "What was it again you wished Dad would have said after the game?" "Good job. Just two simple words, 'Good--'" Caden stopped. "Oh." Mom lifted her eyebrows. "Mmm hmm. Sometimes we all just need a little encouragement, don't we? None of us is perfect, but we're still loved--God loves us so much He sent Jesus to die for our sins! And He wants us to remind others that we love them too by acknowledging their accomplishments and encouraging them." "I'll go find Emily," Caden said. "Looks like Dad and I could work on this together." Caden left the room, but quickly returned. "Hey, Mom? Good job on those cookies." Mom smiled. "Thanks, Caden. That's just what I needed to hear." – Kelly Carlson How About You? When was the last time you said "good job"? Is there someone in your life who needs to hear that? People rarely do things perfectly, but when they try their best and do well, we need to encourage them instead of pointing out what they could have done better. Make "good job" two of the words you say today! Today's Key Verse: Encourage one another and build each other up. (CSB) (1 Thessalonians 5:11) Today's Key Thought: Encourage others

Bible Reading: Ephesians 4:31-32; Hebrews 12:1-2 "Mom, look at this!" Sari pointed to the TV. "This woman has been hoarding junk for more than twenty years, and now her house is so full she can't even move around in it! It's a huge health hazard, and she's going to be forced to leave her home if she doesn't clean it out. The team of people who make this show came to help. Just look at all that stuff!" Mom shook her head sadly. "That poor woman. It's so hard to let go of things sometimes." Sari rolled her eyes. "It's her own fault for letting it get like that! Couldn't she see that her house was getting so full she could hardly walk around?" "Not necessarily," answered Mom. "I'm sure it happened so gradually over a long period of time that she hardly noticed it. It probably wasn't until someone else came inside that she realized how bad it had gotten. That's how it happened with me." "What?" exclaimed Sari. "You used to be a hoarder?" Mom laughed. "I guess you could say that. I didn't hoard things in my house though--I hoarded things in my heart." "What do you mean?" asked Sari. "Well, when I became a Christian, I was thrilled to have Jesus in my life. But even though I knew He'd made me a new person, I still didn't want to let go of some sinful things I thought were fun or the grudges I had against other people. I was holding on to sin and anger and bitterness, even though those things didn't belong in my new life and were hurting me and others." "So how'd you get rid of them?" asked Sari. "It wasn't until a Christian friend pointed out how she saw me living that I finally realized I needed help. The Holy Spirit gave me the power to let go of my selfish desires so I could live in a way that reflects Jesus's love without all that other stuff getting in the way." Sari looked back at the TV screen. "Just like the woman on this show will be able to enjoy living in her house once all that junk is cleaned out of it." Mom nodded. "Exactly!" – Courtney Lasater How About You? Are you hanging on to things that don't belong in the new life Jesus has given you? Sometimes it's hard to let go of your old way of doing things, but that's not who you are anymore. Jesus has made you a new person who's able to show His love to others in all you do. Trust Him to help you let go of any selfish habits you've been holding on to and embrace your new life in Him. Today's Key Verse: Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin that so easily ensnares us...looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. (NKJV) (Hebrews 12:1-2) Today's Key Thought: Let go of sin and bitterness

Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 33:26-27; Isaiah 40:28-31 Mario and his dad were on a fishing trip when Mario made a discovery--an eagle's nest way up near the top of a tall tree. And up in the sky, they saw a large bird soaring high over the river. Mario let out a long breath. "Wow! I wish I could fly like that!" "Well, that eagle didn't always have such great flying skills," said Dad. "I've read that baby eagles are afraid of flying. In fact, it takes a great deal of their mother's prodding to get them out of their soft, warm nest." "I know. We talked about them in school. My teacher said the mother eagle pushes the babies right out over the side of the nest. That must be scary for them!" Dad nodded. "They probably think they'll fall to the ground." "Yeah, but then after the mother eagle lets one of the eaglets flutter and fall for a bit, she soars underneath it and lets it land on her wings. Then she takes it back to the nest. She does that over and over until they're brave and strong enough to fly on their own." A few days later, Mario felt nervous about a kids' event at church he had agreed to help with. "Mrs. Campbell wants me to help with the little kids' group tomorrow," Mario told his dad. "But what if the kids ask me questions I don't know how to answer? It might be the first time some of them ever hear about Jesus, and I'm afraid I won't know what to say!" "You can always ask an adult for help," said Dad. "I know it's scary for you, Mario, but you haven't forgotten how little eagles learn to fly, have you?" "What does that have to do with it?" Mario wanted to know. "God often helps His children in a way that's similar to how a mother eagle helps her babies," Dad explained. "Sometimes He gives you a gentle push to get you to try new things--things that make you feel helpless or afraid at first so you'll learn to depend on Him for strength and guidance. The Holy Spirit is always with you, and He'll be there to catch you and help you know what to say." Mario smiled. "Thanks, Dad. I'll remember that tomorrow." – Trudy Vanderveen How About You? Do you get nervous telling others about Jesus? Are you afraid your friends will laugh at you if you invite them to church? It can be scary to share your faith with others sometimes, but God is always with you. He's helping you learn to depend on Him in every situation instead of relying on your own strength. Even when you feel like you're failing, He is with you. He won't ever leave you on your own. Trust Him to help you. Today's Key Verse: Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles. (NKJV) (Isaiah 40:31) Today's Key Thought: Rely on God

Bible Reading: 1 Peter 2:9-10 Grace took her treasure box out from under the bed and opened it to look over the contents inside. She took a couple of items out and inspected them. A special note from Grandma. A ballet ticket stub. A birthstone ring. A picture book. She smiled as she returned them to her box. She often did this before going to bed. Seeing her treasures brought memories that gave her happy, warm feelings. One morning, Grace's little sister greeted her eagerly. "I had a dream last night," said Everly. "It was about a great big treasure box. It was way bigger than yours, and lots prettier too! It sparkled all over. And it was as tall as the sky!" Grace grinned at Everly. "What was in the box?" "I don't know," said Everly. "I couldn't see inside it." "Well, who do you think would own such a big, fancy box?" Grace asked. "A king? Or the President?" "I know who!" exclaimed Everly. "God could have a box like that." Grace grinned. "If God had a treasure box, what He would put in it? Rainbows, maybe? Or oceans? How about mountains? Or gold?" Everly nodded, but no answer seemed quite right to Grace. "Let's think about it today," Mom suggested. "Let's see who can come up with an even better answer." "Okay," said Grace, but her day was busy, and she soon forgot all about it. When Grace got home from school, Everly was waiting for her. "I know what God would put in His treasure box!" she said, bouncing up and down. "I know the answer!" "You do?" asked Grace. "How do you know? Mom told you, didn't she?" Grace turned to her mother. "What is it, Mom? Tell me too!" Mom smiled at her. "Go look up Deuteronomy 7:6," she said. "Maybe that will help you figure it out." When Grace looked up the verse in her Bible, she saw the answer to the question. People, she thought. God would put the people He saved in His treasure box. Grace smiled. She knew she was part of God's treasure. –Joy L. Newswanger How About You? Are you part of God's treasure? Maybe you didn't know God has treasure, but He does! In today's Key Verse, He calls His chosen people His treasure. Today, that means anyone who has trusted Jesus as their Savior is His treasure too. Are you included in that group? If not, put your trust in Jesus, who died for your sins so you could be saved, and become God's treasure 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: The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for himself, a special treasure. (NKJV) (Deuteronomy 7:6) Today's Key Thought: God's people are His treasure

Bible Reading: Psalm 42; 1 Peter 1:3-9; Revelation 21:3-5 "I'm going for a walk." Mel's attention shot up at Owen's announcement as he entered the kitchen. He still had his hoodie on, but he was actually wearing jeans, not sweatpants. "You want to join?" Mel nodded and jumped to her feet, and within a minute they were out the door. Mel loved walking in their neighborhood downtown. She liked the scrunched-up houses and how close they lived to their neighbors. As she and Owen walked in silence, Mom's words from a couple weeks ago telling her that Owen had depression echoed in her ears. She kept glancing over at her brother, and eventually he asked, "Why do you keep looking at me like that?" Mel kicked a rock instead of responding. "Mel, what's wrong?" Finally, she looked up at her big brother. "I just don't understand," she began. "Can't Jesus heal people? Why doesn't He heal you? Will you be sick forever?" This time Owen kicked the rock before replying. "I believe Jesus can heal me and take away my depression. I'm not sure why He's not doing it now, but I know He will one day." "One day like in a few more weeks?" "Maybe," responded Owen. "But maybe not. It's complicated. Jesus promises us that when we trust Him as our Savior, He will save us from our sins so we can be with Him forever. But not everything is perfect--yet. It won't be until Jesus makes everything right when He comes again." "What do we do until then?" Mel asked. Owen took a deep breath. "We have hope. I know with certainty that God is faithful and incapable of breaking His promises. Having hope is having confidence in God." Mel took in the sight of her brother. He was in a good mood today, but would he be tomorrow? Before she could say anything, Owen continued. "And when it's hard to hope, I take comfort in knowing that Jesus is still with me and can give me hope and peace." Mel found another rock to kick, then looked to Owen and said, "Would it help if I made a sticker of Jesus's hope for your door? That way it'll be easier to remember." Owen grinned. "I think that's a wonderful idea." –Zoe Brickner How About You? Are you facing pain and difficulty in your life? Even in our suffering, we can have peace knowing our ultimate hope is that Jesus will make all things new. He promises to comfort us and be with us in our pain, and one day He will restore our minds and bodies and get rid of pain, sickness, and death forever! Whenever you go through hard times, remember the hope you have in Him. Today's Key Verse: Why are you sad, o my soul? Why have you become troubled within me? Hope in God, for I will praise him again for his help of being near me. (NLV) (Psalm 42:5) Today's Key Thought: Stick to hope

Bible Reading: Psalm 23; 2 Corinthians 1:3-7 Mel peeked out of her room to see if Owen's door was still shut. It was. All she saw was the array of homemade stickers plastered over it. The door was closed a lot lately. Mel sighed. She wished Owen would play with her and tease her for the silly-looking people she drew. "Dinner's ready!" Mom's voice startled Mel, but she grinned when she smelled her favorite chicken and pasta. At dinner Mel glanced over at Owen's empty chair. "Mom, Owen's been acting strange. He rarely eats with us, and he hasn't wanted to hang out with me." The words tumbled out of her mouth. "You're right," Mom said after a sigh. "Owen hasn't been feeling good lately." "Is he sick? Does he need a doctor?" "Well, it's his mind, not his body," Mom explained. "His doctor calls it depression. This sort of sickness can make it really hard to do the things you love, or even be with the people you love." Mel was silent for a moment and traced her fork through the pasta sauce. "Is there anything we can do? I feel helpless." Mom put her hands around Mel's. "Even though Owen is hurting, Jesus is with him and wants to comfort him. He died for Owen and understands what he's going through, and He promises to be with him through it. We can remind Owen that he's not alone and that Jesus loves him. I've been sitting with him in his room while he eats dinner. Do you want to bring up his plate tonight?" While Mel dished up some food for her brother, she had an idea. She got to work before knocking on Owen's door. He opened it wearing his basketball hoodie. "I brought dinner, and this." Mel held out the sticker she'd made. It was of her, Mom, and Jesus giving Owen a hug with the words, We love you! Owen laughed, and Mel smiled. "Is that supposed to be me?" he asked, pointing to the middle stick figure. Mel didn't get a chance to respond because Owen pulled her into a hug. Then he stuck her drawing on the inside of his door and said, "This way I can see it. And I'll be reminded that I'm not alone." –Zoe Brickner How About You? Do you know someone who may be struggling in a way similar to Owen? Maybe they've been acting distant and detached from how they usually are. Or perhaps you've been feeling that way yourself. If you think you or anyone else might be struggling with depression, talk to a family member, teacher, or other trusted adult. Then trust Jesus to be with you in your struggles and to help you love and comfort others. Today's Key Verse: Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. (NIV) (Psalm 23:4) Today's Key Thought: Jesus sticks with us

Bible Reading: Psalm 66:10-12; Colossians 3:1-14; 1 Peter 1:7 Poppy walked into the kitchen just as her mom was coming in from outside. It was a hot day, and her mom's face was bright red and dripping with sweat. "Mom!" Poppy laughed. "What have you been doing?" Her mom was breathing heavily, but she smiled. "I went outside a couple hours ago to clean up the lilac bushes. Well, they were in much worse shape than I thought. I just came in for a drink, but there's still lots for me to do." "I'll help!" Poppy said, grabbing her gardening gloves. As the two approached the giant lilac bushes in the yard, Poppy saw the thick vines that wound their way up and over all the bushes, shading them from the sun's light. Mom picked up the hatchet, and the two of them got to work. Mom cut the vines off at the base and Poppy grabbed and pulled the vines from the bush. The vines held so tightly that it often took the both of them pulling until the vine finally released and the lilac bush bounced back to its full height. "That was hard," Poppy said once they were finished. She was so tired she could barely lift the glass of iced tea to her lips! "I agree," Mom said. "But you know what? Sometimes when I do yardwork like that, I remember that God is doing the same type of work in my heart. It makes the struggle a bit more bearable." "What do you mean, the same type of work?" Poppy asked. Mom looked thoughtfully at the bushes. "My sinful nature--my desire to do wrong things that go against who I am in Jesus--is a lot like those vines. Fighting against it often feels as hard as ripping those vines out. But, because of Jesus, I have the Holy Spirit, who gives me the power to resist sin and is helping me grow to be more holy--more like Jesus. When I rip out those vines, I'm reminded of the Holy Spirit's work in my life and how grateful I am that I don't have to fight my sinful desires on my own." Poppy looked at the lilac bushes swaying easily in the breeze, thinking over her mom's words. She knew she had that same power in her too. –Emily Tenter How About You? Do you see evidence of the Holy Spirit's work in your life? If you know Jesus as your Savior, God is refining you and making you more like Him. Sometimes it's uncomfortable, and it's impossible to do alone! God gives us the power to leave our sinful ways behind and pursue holiness. Whenever you struggle with sin, remember that God is making you more like Jesus, and trust Him to help you show His love in your life. Today's Key Verse: We went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance. (NIV) (Psalm 66:12) Today's Key Thought: God makes us holy

Bible Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 As Macy walked with her mom to the barn, she began to pick a bouquet of wildflowers. She was so excited to see flowers again. Winter was over, and spring was budding everywhere. "After we finish helping Dad and Jake with the chores in the barn, we can get those pretty flowers in a vase," Mom said. Macy set the flowers down in the feed room and got some hay to give to the horses. "Good morning, Cinnamon!" Macy said as she pitched some hay into Cinnamon's stall. She gave all the horses hay, then helped Dad let a couple of the horses out to graze in the pasture. She laughed as she watched the horses dance around. "I think they're excited about spring too." After they finished up in the barn, Macy grabbed her bouquet and walked back to the house with Mom, picking a few more flowers along the way. Mom picked out a pretty vase from under the kitchen sink, and Macy put some water in it and began to arrange the bouquet. Once she had the flowers arranged just right, she set the vase in the middle of the table. During dinner that evening, spring was the main topic. Macy's parents and older brother were busy talking about all the things they needed to get done on the farm now that it was warmer. "I love all the beautiful flowers I can pick now that it's spring!" Macy chimed in. "And we enjoy your beautiful bouquets," said Mom. "You know, Macy, spring makes me think of my new life in Christ. Just like the trees and plants bud out with new growth, so do our lives when we trust in Jesus. God's Word reminds us that we are new creations who have the love of Jesus in our hearts and are able to share it with others." "So, since I'm a Christian, I'm like a spring flower," said Macy. "I'm a new creation." "Sometimes you don't smell like a spring flower though after you've been working in the barn," Jake said as he patted his little sister on the head. "Jake!" Macy laughed. "Well, neither do you!" Dad smiled. "All teasing aside, these beautiful spring flowers Macy picked for us can help us remember to be thankful for our new life in Christ." –Lisa Fuller How About You? Did you know that when you trust Jesus as your Savior, you become a new creation? Jesus paid the price for our sins so that we could be made right with God and have eternal life with Him. He loves us that much. If you haven't trusted in Jesus yet, you can do it today and have new life! (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: This means that 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: Psalm 119:9-16 It was a chilly afternoon in early October, and Ben and Grandpa were out on the deck planting bulbs in flowerpots. Grandpa showed Ben how to bury the bulbs deep beneath heaps of soft, powdery compost. A week later, when Ben came to visit Grandpa again, he ran straight to the back door and looked eagerly for his daffodils and tulips. But all he saw was soil. "Why haven't my flowers grown, Grandpa?" he asked. Grandpa chuckled. "Don't worry. They'll be here in the spring! You just have to be patient." "The spring?" groaned Ben. "But that's forever!" "It'll be here before you know it," said Grandpa. Winter weather arrived. Christmas came and went. And before long, Ben had forgotten all about his bulbs. Then one spring day, it happened. "Ben, come look!" Grandpa said, beckoning Ben out to the deck. Ben gasped as he caught sight of his pot. It was filled with wonderful, colorful blooms! They looked so vibrant against the pale spring sky. "Worth waiting for?" asked Grandpa. Ben nodded. Later that evening, Ben groaned as he tried to memorize his verse for church. He kept getting the words muddled up. "What have you got there?" asked Grandpa, looking up from his crossword puzzle. Ben heaved a sigh. "It's a memory verse, but I can't seem to remember it!" He tossed the sheet of paper to one side and reached for his video game. "You know," said Grandpa, "learning Bible verses is a bit like planting bulbs. You go out into the cold and bury bulbs in the earth, and then you wait. Nothing. And then you wait some more. Still nothing. And then one day, when you've almost forgotten about them, you turn around and there they are, poking their cheery little heads up out of the soil!" Ben looked out at his flowerpot and smiled. He was really glad he'd taken the time to plant the bulbs. "But how is that like learning verses?" "As you meditate on God's Word, you bury it deep down in your heart so the Holy Spirit can use it to remind you of the truth and promises of Jesus. Sometimes you forget it's even there. But one day, the perfect verse pops into your head, just when you need it most! Don't give up, Ben. Keep learning those verses!" –Angela Jelf How About You? Do you know why learning Bible verses is so important? Like planting a bulb or a seed, you might not notice much change at first. But bit by bit, as you meditate on God's Word, the Holy Spirit makes His promises begin to take root inside you. Then, in due season, it will spring up and flourish. Keep reading the Bible and learning what it says, and trust God to fill your life with beautiful blooms! 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: Hide God's Word in your heart

Bible Reading: Romans 12:3-8 Kayleigh looked out the window as the familiar countryside whizzed past on the way to her grandparents' house. "We're here!" she exclaimed when she spotted it. "I see Grandpa in the backyard with his bees." She got out of the car and ran to the hives out back. As she approached, she saw her grandpa pull out a frame full of hundreds of bees. "Looks like they're working hard!" said Kayleigh as she watched the busy bees scurry around the frame. "Oh yes," said Grandpa. "The nurse bees are feeding the larva, the queen is laying the eggs, and other bees are cleaning or making honey. Bees even guard the entrance to the hive. Each of them has a special job so all the work gets done." Kayleigh watched one bee clean out a tiny cell. It didn't seem like the most fun job to her. "What if the bees didn't want to do their jobs and stopped working?" she asked. Grandpa raised his eyebrows. "Each job is vital to the hive, even the ones that don't seem as important. The colony wouldn't survive if the bees didn't do their work." "Even the cleaning?" asked Kayleigh. "Especially the cleaning!" Grandpa replied. "Bees are very hygienic." He looked at the bees on the frame thoughtfully. "It reminds me of what the Bible says in Romans. The church is one body with many members, just like the hive, and the members don't all have the same job. Some people teach, some lead, and others do things like serve those in need or find ways to encourage people. We need them all to have a healthy, functioning body of Christ that shares His love with the world." "Do I have a job in the church?" Kayleigh asked. Grandpa nodded. "We all have gifts and talents given to us by God. He will show you how you can use them to serve the church." Grandpa put the frame back into the hive. "And right now, little missy," he said with a smile, "I have a job for you." "What's that?" replied Kayleigh. "Go and ask Grandma when supper will be ready!" Kayleigh smiled and gave a thumbs-up. "Now that's a job I can definitely do!" –Tara Whicker How About You? Do you have a special gift that God has given you? Maybe it's encouragement or helpfulness or generosity. All our gifts are important in the body of Christ, and we should use them to serve the church. Trust God to guide your steps as you learn to recognize and use the gifts He has given you. Today's Key Verse: In Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts...given to each of us. (NIV) (Romans 12:5-6) Today's Key Thought: All gifts are important

Bible Reading: Philippians 2:1-4; Titus 3:1-2 As his parents discussed plans for the coming weekend, Nolan took another helping of potatoes. "Hey! Pass the gravy," he said, interrupting their conversation. "And the salt too." Dad frowned at him. "Didn't you notice that your mother and I were talking? You interrupted us. And whatever happened to saying 'please'?" "Well, sorry," said Nolan. "But I need more gravy." Mom shook her head. "Nolan, you're being very rude. That's been happening too much lately." Nolan rolled his eyes. "It's not like we're out in a restaurant or at somebody's house or anything." "You mean you'd use better manners in a restaurant?" asked Dad. "Sure," said Nolan. "I try to remember to be polite when I'm with other people, but you don't expect me to be all proper around here at home, do you?" "We certainly do!" said Mom. "You seem to think that you only need to have good manners when you're with other people, but that's not true. Being polite and respectful is one way to show others that we care about them, and that's important all the time--especially at home." "Right," said Dad. "Developing good manners helps us think about others and how our actions affect them. It's one way we can show people the love of Jesus by putting their needs above our own. And home is the best place to practice." Nolan frowned. "Practice?" "Practice!" said Dad. "A football player practices to get ready for the Super Bowl, and a figure skater practices to get ready for the Olympics. And here at home, you can practice being thoughtful and respectful so you'll be ready to interact with others at school or in the neighborhood or anywhere else. Your mom and I will help you practice good manners here at home, and God will help you think of others and how you can show love and concern for them." He paused. "They say practice makes perfect, you know." "Well, I'm sorry I was rude," murmured Nolan. Dad smiled. "Apology accepted. I think you understand what we're saying. Do you have any questions?" Nolan looked down at his plate and grinned. "Yes. Can I please have some more of that delicious gravy?" –Bob Hostetler How About You? Does your behavior at home show respect and consideration of others? Or do you think that having good manners doesn't really matter around your family? Your home is the place God has provided for you to learn and practice behavior that shows love and kindness toward others. Let Him help you be considerate and respectful at home so you'll be prepared to think of others wherever you are. Today's Key Verse: Whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith. (NLT) (Galatians 6:10) Today's Key Thought: Show respect at home

Bible Reading: Matthew 22:1-14; John 6:37-40 "Mom," said Tia when she arrived home from school. "You're not going to believe this!" "Believe what?" asked Mom. "Kayla took a babysitting job on the day of my party! You'd think she could turn down one job! And McKenna isn't coming either. Her family is going to the zoo, and McKenna wants to go along." Tia looked at her guest list and crossed off the names Kayla and McKenna. The next day, Tia was unhappy again. "Catherine forgot her cousin's wedding is on the day of my party," she told her mother. "And Zella says she has to take care of her little sister." Tia slumped into a chair. "You can't have a party without any guests! I think I'm just gonna call the whole thing off." "Now, wait a minute!" Mom sat down next to her. "You've invited several other friends. Some of them are planning to come, right? They may have turned down other invitations so they can go to your party. It wouldn't be fair to them if you cancel." Tia thought it over. "Okay. Then I'm going to throw the best party ever for the people who decide to come!" On Sunday, Tia went to church with a friend who lived on her street. As she listened to the pastor speak, she was surprised by what she heard. "God offers each of us an invitation," he said. "He invites everyone to come to Him for forgiveness and eternal life through Jesus, who died on the cross for our sins. But we can often be more interested in living for ourselves now than thinking about eternity." Tia had heard of Jesus dying on the cross, but she'd never thought of it as an invitation. She thought of her friends who had turned down her invitation to her birthday party. Had she refused God's invitation that had cost the life of His Son? "Even if we don't accept His invitation at first, God's offer still stands," the pastor continued. "He's always willing to receive those who change their minds and put their trust in Jesus." When the pastor ended his sermon with a prayer, Tia bowed her head and silently told God that she was ready to accept His invitation. –Nance E. Keyes How About You? Have you ever had someone reject something you offered? God offers us salvation through His Son, Jesus. Have you accepted His offer? Or have you turned it down? Don't reject Him any longer. When you accept His invitation to trust Jesus as your Savior, you'll receive God's gift of everlasting life. Don't wait. Trust in Jesus 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: [Jesus said,] "The one who comes to me I will by no means cast out." (NKJV) (John 6:37) Today's Key Thought: Accept God's Invitation