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President: Greg Yoder Editor: Courtney Lasater Design: Warren Kramer Editorial Assistant: Emily Tenter Editorial Intern: Carole Chee Theological review: Chad Bresson, Richard Vaughn, Kevin Zeller Coloring pages: Gina Graham

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Scripture quotations marked NLV are taken from the New Life Version, copyright © 1969 and 2003. Used by permission of Barbour Publishing, Inc., Uhrichsville, Ohio, 44683. All rights reserved.

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JUNE 1

FORGOTTEN COMBINATIONREAD: PROVERBS 7:1-3

I .can’t get my new locker open.” Kadence frowned at the paper in her hand. “Here, take this and read the numbers to me, will you, Aubree?”“Sure.” Aubree read the directions slowly as Kadence turned the dial, and soon

the door opened. “You’d better memorize that combination,” said Aubree.“Nah,” said Kadence. “I’ll just take a picture of it so it’s on my tablet.” She held

her tablet over the piece of paper, snapped a picture, then threw the paper away. “We have a new verse for the week,” Mom said when Kadence got home,

pointing to a white board on the wall with a Bible verse written on it. “Let’s say it together before each meal and work on memorizing it.”

“Oh, Mom,” said Kadence. “Why do we have to learn a verse every week? I hate memorizing! What’s the point? If I ever need to know a verse, I can just look it up.”

“It’s hard to look up a verse if you don’t know the words of it,” Mom replied. “And memorizing Scripture isn’t just about having a verse ready when you need it. It’s about treasuring God’s Word and putting it in your heart. When you do that, you carry the truth and promises of Jesus with you, and they affect your decisions and the way you live.”

Kadence sighed, then quickly changed the subject. “We have new combination lockers at school.”

“What’s your combination?” asked Mom.“I don’t remember, but I took a picture of it with my…” Kadence looked up

suddenly. “Tablet.” She quickly rifled through her backpack. “And I set my tablet in my locker when I was getting ready to leave and forgot to take it out!” she wailed. “What am I going to do?”

“I’m sure you can get the number at the office,” Mom suggested.“Yeah,” Kadence said. “I guess I’ll have to go in early and get it.” Mom tapped her temple. “Just goes to show why we need to keep some things

here and not rely on technology for everything.” She tapped the area over her heart. “And here too.”

Kadence smiled. “Okay, Mom. I see your point.” She turned to the white board and read the verse out loud. BARBARA J. WESTBERG

MEMORIZE BIBLE VERSESKEY VERSE: LET THE WORD OF CHRIST DWELL IN YOU RICHLY

IN ALL WISDOM. COLOSSIANS 3:16

Does God’s Word “dwell in you richly,” as today’s Key Verse says? In order for it to do that, you need to know what it says. The Bible is precious because it tells us who Jesus is and what He’s done to save us. As you read your Bible and memorize verses, God’s truth and promises will make an impression on your heart and have an effect in your life. You can do it. Start today!

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Unlock God’s Word

Do you memorize Bible verses? It’s a great way to learn God’s Word. One technique you can use is to split the verse up into bite-sized chunks and learn a little at a time. Here’s a craft to help you do that!

ACTIVITY

1) Cut out the square below and the arrow dial to the right (or make a copy of this page using a printer). Place the dial over the lock and attach it with a paper fastener so it can spin around. Then put it on your fridge or bulletin board.

2) Choose a verse you want to learn and split it into four “chunks” (today’s Key Verse is already done for you as an example). Place each chunk at one of the numbers around the dial (first chunk at 0, second at 5, etc.).

3) Set the dial to the first number and work on memorizing that chunk. When you know it, set the dial to the next number and work on that part. Keep adding each new bit to the part you already know. (You can even turn the dial as you recite each part of the verse to help you remember.)

4) Once you’ve memorized the whole verse, choose a new one to memorize. Put the new verse chunks around the lock (you can use the lines provided or tape pieces of paper on top if you need more room). See if you can memorize one new verse a week—and recite ones you’ve already learned too!

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SECOND PART OF BIBLE PASSAGE:

THIRD PART OF BIBLE PASSAGE:

FINAL PART OF BIBLE PASSAGE:

FIRST PART OF BIBLE PASSAGE:

Let the word of Christ

dwell in you richly

in all wisdom.

Colossians 3:16

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2

3

4

Cut out dial, place over lock with paper fastener

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JUNE 2

AN OLD PIECE OF WOODREAD: ISAIAH 64:6; 2 CORINTHIANS 5:14-17

Carter was helping his dad pile firewood in the backyard when their next-door neighbor came over. “Looks like you’ve got some nice walnut here,” Mr.

Stevens remarked as he stooped down and picked up a piece of wood that Carter’s dad had trimmed off a tree. “Mind if I borrow this for a week?”

“For a week?” asked Dad. He smiled. “Help yourself—there’s no need to return it. If you see anything else you can use, you’re welcome to it.”

“Thanks,” said Mr. Stevens, “but this will do for now.” With a wave, he turned and carried the piece of wood into his garage.

“I wonder why Mr. Stevens wants that chunk of wood,” said Carter.Dad shrugged. “I don’t know. I should have asked him.”They found out why a week later when they were grilling burgers in the

backyard. Mr. Stevens came over to return the piece of walnut—but now it wasn’t a chunk of firewood anymore. It was a beautifully carved mallard duck. “I know you said I didn’t have to return this,” said Mr. Stevens with a grin, “but I want you to have it.”

“It’s beautiful!” said Dad. “Thank you! We’ll put this on our fireplace mantle instead of in the fire.”

“Wow!” Carter said. “Look what you did with just an old piece of wood!”The neighbor smiled. “I enjoy carving things. When I see an old piece of wood

change into something beautiful, I’m reminded of what Jesus did for me. I was a sinner living a life of selfishness and pride, but Jesus took me and made me a new person!”

“Oh?” said Carter’s dad. “Interesting. I know a little about Jesus, but I’ve never heard anyone talk about Him like that before.”

“Me neither,” said Carter. “Can Jesus change anyone into a new person?”Mr. Stevens nodded. “He saved me from sin, just like I saved that old piece of

wood from the burn pile, and He gave me a new life. And He will do the same for you.”

Carter pointed to the carving. “Can I take it in and show Mom?”“Sure.” Dad handed him the duck, then looked at his neighbor. “Thanks again.

You’ve given me something to think about.” LINDA M. WEDDLE

YOU CAN BECOME A NEW PERSONKEY VERSE: ANYONE WHO BELONGS TO CHRIST HAS BECOME A NEW PERSON.

THE OLD LIFE IS GONE; A NEW LIFE HAS BEGUN! 2 CORINTHIANS 5:17 (NLT)

Has Jesus changed you and made you a new person? He gave His life so you could be saved from sin and have a new life with Him. Trust Him as your Savior, and He’ll make you into a beautiful, new creation! (See “Have You Heard the Good News?” on page 102.)

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JUNE 3

DOING CHORES GOT YOU DOWN?READ: MATTHEW 20:25-28

Bonnie walked listlessly into Grandma’s kitchen and sank into a chair. “It’s not fair!” she said miserably. “Mom knows I hate doing the dishes. I would rather

do any other chore than dishes. I would gladly mow the lawn or do the laundry, anything but dishes!”

“Bonnie, you know your mother has to work a lot this summer, and she really needs your help at home,” Grandma replied.

“I know, Grandma, but dishes? Why can’t I do the other stuff and Mom can do the dishes?”

“Did you know that I used to hate cooking?” Grandma asked as she dished Bonnie a bowl of the yummy-smelling soup she was cooking. “I would have rather cleaned the pig sty than cook.” Grandma chuckled at the bewildered look on Bonnie’s face.

“But you’re always cooking! You cook for the homeless shelter and for the ladies at church. Why do you do it if you don’t like it?” Bonnie asked incredulously.

“I love it now. But when I was young on the farm, it was my job to cook for my family of eight. Oh, how I hated that task!”

Bonnie slurped a spoonful of soup. “So what changed?” “One day in church the pastor preached a sermon about doing everything like

you were doing the job for Jesus. I decided to try it. That night I prayed before I started cooking. ‘Lord, I hate this job. You know that I do. But I love You, and You were willing to suffer and die to save me. So I’m going to cook this meal in Your honor.’ And I did! I took extra special care to make everything perfect. I sang songs of worship and said a prayer asking God to bless the meal. That night at dinner, everyone complimented me on my cooking. The next night I decided to cook for Jesus again. After a few months, I found I was actually looking forward to cooking and my special time with the Lord.”

The next Saturday Bonnie bounced into Grandma’s kitchen. “Hey, Grandma, want me to wash up those dishes while you finish cooking?” Grandma smiled and nodded as Bonnie started singing her favorite worship song while she filled the sink with soapy water. CASEY COMSTOCK

DO YOUR WORK FOR JESUSKEY VERSE: SO WHETHER YOU EAT OR DRINK OR WHATEVER YOU DO,

DO IT ALL FOR THE GLORY OF GOD. 1 CORINTHIANS: 10:31 (NIV)

Are there certain chores you dread doing? Are there school assignments you think are boring? Try focusing on Jesus while you do the task. Remember that He was willing to do the hard, painful work of dying on a cross to save you. Use your work as an opportunity to thank and honor Him. You can find joy in any task when you do it for the glory of Jesus.

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JUNE 4

TOGETHER TOO MUCHREAD: MATTHEW 28:20; PHILIPPIANS 2:3-4

Tessa shook her head when Taylor suggested they spend time together after school. “Not today,” said Tessa. “I have other things to do.”

“Aw, come on,” said Taylor. “Whatever it is, I could help you.”“Not really,” Tessa replied. “I have to practice the piano.”“I could just come in and listen,” offered Taylor.“Look, Taylor,” said Tessa, “we were together last night after school—and

Monday night too. And we spent a lot of time together last weekend. I like doing stuff with you, but I have my own things to do today.”

“Okay, fine,” Taylor said glumly.When Taylor got home, she found her mother watering the garden. “I wanted to

do something with Tessa again today, but she didn’t want to. She was like that one day last week too. I hope she’s not mad.”

“Why would she be mad?” asked Mom. “It’s not like she never spends time with you. She’s been here a lot lately—and you’ve been at her house too.”

“I know.” Taylor sighed. “It’s just that she sometimes acts like she's tired of being with me.”

“Well, it is possible to want to spend so much time with someone that they get tired of it,” said Mom. “A verse in the Bible talks about that.”

“It does? What verse?” asked Taylor in surprise.“Proverbs 25:17,” said Mom, taking out her phone and showing Taylor the verse.

“This tells us it’s possible to spend too much time with one person and wear out our welcome.”

“Oh.” Taylor looked at her feet. “I guess that’s what I’ve been doing to Tessa.”Mom squeezed Taylor’s shoulder. “The Bible tells us how to love others, and this

verse reminds us the best way to do that is to give our friends space when they need it. But you know who never needs any space from us?”

“Umm…” said Taylor. “God?”“Right!” said Mom. “Jesus is always with us, and we can talk to Him anytime. He

always wants to spend time with us.” “Okay, I get it,” said Taylor. “I’ll give Tessa some space.” She grinned at her mom.

“It will give me a chance to get out my Bible and spend some time with Jesus.” LINDA M. WEDDLE

GIVE FRIENDS SPACE WHEN NEEDEDKEY VERSE: DON’T VISIT YOUR NEIGHBORS TOO OFTEN,

OR YOU WILL WEAR OUT YOUR WELCOME. PROVERBS 25:17 (NLT)

Do you spend lots of time with only one friend? It’s fine to have a best friend you see often, but don’t spend so much time with them that you wear out your welcome. Be a good friend by giving them time to spend on their own or with other people. You might enjoy having some time to yourself too. And remember you have a Friend who is always there to spend time with you—Jesus!

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JUNE 5

THE CIRCLEREAD: PSALM 90:1-4; 2 PETER 3:8

Cora was always full of questions—questions like: How many animals were on the ark? How did Jonah keep from drowning in the whale’s tummy? How far

away are the stars? Can we take a trip to one of them?One day Cora came to her mother with another question. “Mom, who made God?” “Nobody,” her mother answered.“Then where did God come from?” asked Cora.“He didn’t come from anywhere—He just always was,” Mom said. “I’m afraid I

can’t explain it so that you can really understand, honey.”“But He had to come from somewhere,” Cora insisted.Mom shook her head. “Our minds are not as great as God’s mind, and there are

some things we can’t understand this side of heaven,” she replied. “For now we just have to accept the fact that God has no beginning or end. He always existed and always will exist.”

Mom hesitated and then took off her wedding ring. “Maybe this will help you,” she said, handing it to Cora. “I want you to tell me where this ring begins and where it ends.” Mom motioned to the shiny gold band.

Cora looked at the perfect circle. “It doesn’t start or stop anywhere. It’s a circle—it doesn’t have a beginning or an end.”

“And that’s like God, Cora. God is eternal. He never had a beginning, and He has no ending. We think of our lives in minutes and days and weeks and years, but with God, it isn’t like that. The Bible says that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years and a thousand years is like a day.”

“Oh,” said Cora uncertainly. Then she smiled. “Okay. I’ll try to remember that God is like this ring,” she said as she handed it back to her mother. “He has no beginning or end.”

“That’s right,” said Mom, “and God’s love is like that too. Even though He’s eternal, Jesus was willing to become human and die for our sins so we could be saved and live with Him forever. No matter what, His love for us will never end.” CHARLES VANDERMEER

GOD IS ETERNALKEY VERSE: FROM EVERLASTING TO EVERLASTING, YOU ARE GOD. PSALM 90:2

Aren’t you glad God is too great for a human mind to fully understand? That’s one of the things that makes Him God! It’s good to ask questions and learn about Him from the Bible, but don’t worry if you can’t understand how He could have no beginning or end. He is greater than we can imagine, and we can trust Him. Thank Him for being so great and wonderful—and for loving you so much.

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JUNE 6

WHAT YOU CAN’T SEEREAD: 1 PETER 1:3-5, 8

Ah-choo!” Easton sneezed hard and reached for a tissue to blow his nose.

“How do you feel?” asked Mom as she brought him a glass of juice.

Easton sneezed again and reached for another tissue. “I keep sneezing. And I can’t breathe through my nose at all. But I got this cold from Dylan last week, and he feels okay now, so I guess I’ll start feeling better soon. I sure hope so!” He frowned. “But…” Easton hesitated.

Mom put the juice down and sat beside Easton. “Can I help with something?”

“Well, the other day Dylan and I were talking about God, and he asked how I know God even exists, since I can’t see Him. I told him I just know—and I do, but—how do I know, Mom? Dylan says he doesn’t believe in anything he can’t see.”

Mom thought for a moment. “You said Dylan had a cold last week, right?”Easton nodded. “He even missed two days of school.”“Why don’t you ask him what caused his cold?” suggested Mom.“What caused it? He’d say it was germs. We learned about them in health class.”“So ask if he’s ever seen those germs,” Mom said.“But, Mom, nobody can see—” Easton paused. “Oh, I get what you’re saying. We

can’t see germs, but we know they’re there.”Mom nodded. “There are germs around us all the time, even though we can’t see

them. When we get sick, we see evidence that they exist. It’s the same with God. We don’t see Him, but we see evidence of His existence all around us—in the laws of science and in the beautiful world He’s created. Most importantly, God reveals Himself to us through His Word, the Bible. Just like a microscope allows us to know things about germs we would never be able to see with our eyes alone, the Bible tells us who God is and what He’s done. It reveals His love for us and how we can have a relationship with Him, and how one day Jesus will return and everyone will see Him.”

Easton nodded thoughtfully. “I’ll tell that to Dylan. Maybe he’ll want to learn more about God and the Bible.” KAREN E. COGAN

GOD IS REALKEY VERSE: WE DO NOT FOCUS ON WHAT IS SEEN, BUT ON WHAT IS UNSEEN.

FOR WHAT IS SEEN IS TEMPORARY, BUT WHAT IS UNSEEN IS ETERNAL. 2 CORINTHIANS 4:18 (CSB)

Do you realize you believe in lots of things you can’t see? Things like germs, the wind, and electricity? How about radio waves or a Wi-Fi signal? You don’t see any of those things—you only see evidence that they exist. Evidence that God exists is all around you in the world He created, and the Bible tells us who He is. Through faith, you can know He exists and that He loves you, even though you can’t see Him.

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JUNE 7

SAFE IN JESUSREAD: PSALM 91:1-2, 11, 14-15

The thunder boomed loudly as Kallie hid underneath the blanket on the living room couch. She peered

through the holes of the afghan to see the torrential downpour outside the window. As Kallie covered her ears from the sound of the storm, she was reminded of her ear surgery the next day. A big tear rolled down her cheek as her tummy twisted in knots.

“Kallie?” her grandma called from the kitchen. “Are you in the living room?”

“Uh-huh,” Kallie replied with a frightened whimper.Grandma leaned over the couch and found Kallie curled up underneath the navy

blue blanket. “Oh, sweetie,” said Grandma as she lifted the afghan. “Are you afraid of the storm outside?”

“Uh-huh. And…” Kallie held her ears tightly, “and…” Grandma picked up on the hint. “And your ear surgery tomorrow?” Kallie

nodded. Grandma looked into her big brown eyes and changed the subject. “What do you say we go play outside for a bit?”

“What? Grandma, it’s thundering and lightning outside. That’s totally not safe!”“So, we should stay inside where it is safe?” “Yes!” Kallie wasn’t exactly sure where Grandma was going with this.Grandma grinned. “Kallie, our house is a safe place to be in this bad storm.

Tomorrow, you have to face another storm in your life—your ear surgery. I get it, surgeries can be scary. But they don’t have to be, because you know the ultimate safe place.”

“The hospital?” guessed Kallie.“Well, hospitals are safe places. But that’s not who I’m talking about. I’m talking

about Jesus. It says in the Bible that He is our refuge, shelter, and fortress, which are all words for safe places. When we’re scared, we can run to Him. He died on the cross and rose again to give us eternal life, and He also gives us peace and rest here and now when we face scary things like surgeries. He loves you, Kallie, and He will always be with you.”

Kallie looked into her Grandma’s eyes and saw no fear. Kallie wanted that too. “Thanks, Grandma. I needed that talk. Can you pray with me?” EMILY RUDOLPH

WE ARE SAFE IN JESUSKEY VERSE: I WILL SAY OF THE LORD, “HE IS MY REFUGE AND MY FORTRESS,

MY GOD, IN WHOM I TRUST.” PSALM 91:2 (NIV)

Does your stomach ever twist in knots because of fear? Maybe you’re afraid of an upcoming surgery or doctor’s visit. Or maybe you’re afraid of storms or a difficult test at school. Whatever it is, choose to trust Jesus. Remember that no matter what happens, He loves you and is always with you. He is your safe place.

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JUNE 8

A CLEAN CHAINREAD: LUKE 15:11-24

Hey, Zack! Are you ready to ride?” asked Uncle Tim as his nephew pushed a mountain bike through the door of his garage. “The trails are in great shape.

Maybe we can stop for ice cream afterward. To regain our strength.” He grinned.Zack smiled weakly. “Yeah, that’d be great.”Uncle Tim studied his nephew more closely. “Is something wrong, Zack?

When I called two nights ago to invite you to go riding with me, you whooped so loudly you woke your baby sister. Where’s your enthusiasm?”

Zack sighed. “I just keep thinking about my friend Aaron. He’s really mad at me.”“What happened?”“We got a new kid in our class.” Zack shrugged miserably. “I wanted him to

think I was cool, so I said some things about Aaron that made him look dumb and me look good. Aaron didn’t speak to me for the rest of the day.”

“I see,” Uncle Tim said thoughtfully. “Zack, wheel your bike over here.” He clamped a plastic device on the chain. “This is a degreaser,” he explained and began cranking the pedals backward. “When the chain cycles through it, the brushes and solution scrub away all the debris that builds up between the links. I have to do this regularly to keep my bike in good working order.” He looked at Zack. “Sometimes people need a good cleaning too.”

Zack shuffled his feet on the cement floor. “How do I do that?” “Tell Jesus what you did. He saved you from sin, and He promises to forgive

you when you confess your wrongs. You don’t need to carry this guilt on our ride.”

Zack looked doubtful, but he closed his eyes. “Jesus, I messed up and said some things to Aaron that I regret. Will You forgive me?”

“He already has,” Uncle Tim said. “Feel better?” Zack smiled. “A little.”“You’re not done yet.” Uncle Tim wheeled their bikes toward his car and

began fastening them into the rack. “We’ll stop at Aaron’s on our way out of town. After you ask for his forgiveness, you can invite him along. No matter what he decides, you’ll ride lighter, knowing you did the right thing.” MICHELLE ISENHOFF

ASK FORGIVENESS FROM GOD AND OTHERSKEY VERSE: IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS, HE IS FAITHFUL AND JUST TO

FORGIVE US OUR SINS AND TO CLEANSE US FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS. 1 JOHN 1:9

Have you ever had to ask someone to forgive you? Admitting mistakes can be difficult, and there’s no guarantee that the person you wronged will forgive you. But Jesus always will. Confess your sins to Him, and then ask the person you hurt for forgiveness too. Do your best to mend broken friendships and trust God with the outcome.

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JUNE 9

PUSHING BUTTONSREAD: JAMES 1:12-15

What’s the problem, Mom?” Ford asked when his mother told him she needed help with her phone.

“I just downloaded a new app, but I can’t figure out how to make it stop sending me all these notifications,” Mom explained. Ford grinned and tapped a few buttons on the screen. “Oh—there!” Mom smiled at Ford. “Thank you! When it comes to technology, you kids always amaze me.”

Later that evening when Ford came home from a friend’s house, his mother noticed he was unusually quiet. “Something bothering you, Ford?”

“Well, uh…” Ford hesitated. “When we were at his house, Conner wanted Elias and Aiden and me to look at a bad website he found. Aiden said no, like it wasn’t a big deal to him. I said no too, but I really wanted to.” Ford cleared his throat. “It wasn’t that I wanted to see that stuff, but I was afraid Connor and Elias would make fun of me—which they did. They laughed and called me and Aiden ‘good little church boys’—but Aiden just shrugged and didn’t even seem to mind!” Ford sighed. “Why is it so easy for Aiden to say no, but not for me?”

Mom gave Ford a hug. “I’m really proud that you didn’t look in spite of how you felt. As for Aiden, let’s just be glad he didn’t seem to be bothered by peer pressure as much as you were. He probably has other temptations that are as hard for him to deal with as this is for you.”

“So…something else might be a bigger deal to him than to me?” Ford asked.“Exactly. Remember when you helped me with my phone? You knew which

buttons to push to get it to do what I wanted. Well, Satan knows which buttons to push to tempt you—he knows our weaknesses, and he tempts different people in different ways.”

“That makes sense,” said Ford thoughtfully.“God also knows our weaknesses,” said Mom, “and He can help you be strong

when you feel yourself wanting to give in. Because you know Jesus, sin and Satan hold no power over you. You don’t have to give in, even when something is especially tempting, because God gives us the ability to resist every temptation.” HOLLY F. CEPEDA

DEPEND ON GOD WHEN TEMPTEDKEY VERSE: SUBMIT TO GOD. RESIST THE DEVIL AND HE WILL FLEE FROM YOU.

JAMES 4:7

Do some sins seem to tempt you more than they tempt other people? That’s normal. Every person has different weaknesses and different strengths. When you feel tempted to do something that’s wrong, remember that you don’t have to give in to any sin because Jesus has freed you from its power. Trust Him to help you resist any temptation you face.

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JUNE 10

A NEW ADDITIONREAD: MATTHEW 19:13-15; 1 JOHN 4:7-16

Macey and her younger sister, Rachel, looked curiously at Dad when he cleared his throat. “Your mother and I have a

surprise for you,” he told them. Macey immediately hoped they were getting a new flat-screen TV, while Rachel envisioned a trip to Disneyland.

Mom clasped Dad’s hand. “We’re going to have a baby,” she said, smiling.

“Really?” Rachel said as she jumped up and down excitedly.

“You’ve got to be kidding!” wailed Macey.Mom and Dad were surprised by her response. “We

thought you’d be happy,” said Mom. “You enjoy playing with our friends’ babies when they come over.”

“That’s different!” said Macey. “They’re not around all the time. Will I have to change diapers? And babysit when I’d rather be doing other stuff? Everything will be different with a baby around!”

“That’s true,” said Mom, “but I’m sure we all have plenty of love to share.”Princess, one of the family’s two cats, jumped up into Macey’s lap and purred

happily as the girl stroked her fur. Tiger, the older cat, lay napping nearby, curled into a ball. Looking at his daughter and the young cat, Dad smiled. “Do you remember when Princess came here as a tiny kitten?” he asked. “And do you remember how Tiger reacted when we brought her into the house?”

“Yeah,” said Macey. “Tiger didn’t like it much at first because she invaded his territory, but they soon became good friends.” Macey hesitated as she thought about what her father was trying to show her. “So you think I’ll like having a new brother or sister once the baby gets here?”

Mom and Dad both nodded. “You’ll have several months to get used to the idea,” said Dad. “In the meantime, let’s remember that every child is precious to Jesus, just like we are, and ask Him to help us all greet our new family member with love and joy when he or she gets here.”

“Well, okay,” said Macey doubtfully. “What will we name the baby? I hope it’s a boy.” She grinned a little when she noticed her parents’ smiles. “I guess I’m getting a little used to the idea already.” EDWIN J. HORTON

ACCEPT ONE ANOTHERKEY VERSE : ACCEPT ONE ANOTHER, THEN, JUST AS CHRIST ACCEPTED YOU,

IN ORDER TO BRING PRAISE TO GOD. ROMANS 15:7 (NIV)

Does a baby brother or sister need your love? Or maybe an older brother or sister? Or a new kid at school? Jesus loves everyone. He even took time to hold little children and talk to them during His time on earth. He knows that children are a gift from God. When brothers or sisters try your patience, remember that Jesus loves all of you very much. Trust Him to help you love them too.

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JUNE 11

TAKE THE STEPSREAD: DEUTERONOMY 31:6-8; JAMES 1:2-6

Sabrina hauled the grocery bags up the two flights of stairs with a moan. “Every step gets harder!” she

complained to no one in particular. Her stepbrother, Justin, flew by her with his bags,

taking two steps at a time. “Ha ha! Slow poke!” Sabrina glared at his back.

“Justin, kind words,” his mom reminded him as she unlocked the door to the apartment.

Brenda is nice enough, Sabrina thought. It could be worse. Sabrina started unloading the fruit with a sigh. She looked up and saw Brenda

staring at her with a smile. “Snack and chat?” she asked, handing her a bowl of walnuts and berries. Sabrina shrugged and sat down at the counter with Brenda.

“Sabrina, I can imagine how hard this is for you to adjust to living in two different places . . . not to mention going back and forth between the two. I know I’m not your mom, but I want you to know I love you like my own daughter—one I always wanted but never had.” Brenda winked.

“It’s so hard!” Sabrina blurted out. “I’m glad you’re nice and all, but every time I have to go back and forth between families and houses it feels like it takes all my energy.” Sabrina popped some berries in her mouth and chewed slowly.

“Kind of like how you were climbing those steps with all the groceries earlier, huh?” Brenda asked. “Having a stepfamily is hard work, just like climbing our apartment steps is hard work—especially when you have all those extra bags. But sometimes, the hard things can be the most rewarding. I’m willing to take the hard steps. We both know Jesus, and He promises to give us all we need to navigate the difficult things in this life and love others. We don’t have to do this alone.” Brenda gave Sabrina a squeeze. “With the help of Jesus, are you up for taking the steps with me to make our family stronger?”

Sabrina looked at Brenda with a twinkle in her eye. “Sure I am. Just as long as I don’t have to carry more than three bags at a time!” SAVANNAH COLEMAN

GOD IS WITH YOU THROUGH LIFE’S STEPSKEY VERSE HIS DIVINE POWER HAS GIVEN US EVERYTHING WE NEED

FOR A GODLY LIFE THROUGH OUR KNOWLEDGE OF HIM WHO CALLED US BY HIS OWN GLORY AND GOODNESS. 2 PETER 1:3

Are you part of a blended family like Sabrina and Justin? Each family has its challenges, blended or not. Taking steps to improve your family relationships can be difficult, but you don’t have to do it on your own. If you know Jesus, He will give you the strength and help you need to strengthen your family relationships. Trust Him to help as you take steps toward others in love.

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JUNE 12

GET RICH QUICKREAD: PHILIPPIANS 4:10-13

Alice, do you have fifty dollars I can borrow?” Sam asked his older sister. “Fifty dollars!” said Alice. “No way! Mom said if you want that video game,

you have to earn the money first.”“But I need the game now!” Sam sat down with a loud sigh. “How can I earn

money fast?” he asked as their cat strolled into the room and jumped up on Alice’s lap. “Maybe I can sell something. Maybe I can sell Scout!”

“What?” Alice pulled Scout closer. “You are not going to sell our cat!”Later that evening, Alice thought of something. “You know, Sam, my teacher at

church told us a way to get rich quick—or at least feel rich. I could tell you, but I’m not so sure you’ll like it.”

“I’ll like it! I’ll love it!” Sam said, tugging her arm. “Tell me what it is!” “Well, what you need to do is count your blessings!” Alice explained. “Make a list

of everything you’re thankful for—all the blessings God has given you. My whole class did it, and it was really cool to see all the stuff we came up with. Try it for yourself.”

Sam scrunched up his face. “You know that’s not what I meant.”“You should try it anyway,” Alice urged.Sam was doubtful but finally agreed and went to find a notebook. After a while

he returned. “Look at all the things I thought of, Alice,” he said, holding out the notebook.

Alice took the book and began to read the list: “Jesus, Mom and Dad, Alice.” She grinned. “You mentioned me!” she said, then went on reading. “Scout, my friends, our house, hamburgers…this list goes on for three pages. Wow! Your list is even longer than mine was.”

“Yeah, but I still don’t have money for that game,” said Sam.“No, but our teacher reminded us that when we look at our list, we can see how

much God has given us already,” said Alice. “Including His richest blessing of all—being saved from sin and having eternal life through Jesus. Things we own don’t last that long, but knowing Jesus lasts forever!”

Sam hesitated, then he nodded. “You’re right. Even if I never get that game, I’m already rich!” HOLLY F. CEPEDA

COUNT YOUR BLESSINGSKEY VERSE: BE THANKFUL IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES, FOR THIS IS GOD’S WILL

FOR YOU WHO BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS. 1 THESSALONIANS 5:18 (NLT)

Do you ever feel like you must have something in order to be happy? Sometimes you don’t get things when you want them; other times you may not get them at all. But stop and think about what you already have—your family, your friends, and most importantly, the gift of God’s Son, Jesus. When you remember the many blessings God has given you, you’ll see how rich you really are.

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JUNE 13

NOT TOO GOOD TO BE TRUEREAD: JOHN 14:1-6

Wow!” Liam pointed to the back of the cereal box. “Look at this race car model. It’s just like the car Cory Martin drives. You know—the guy who’s

been winning lately! This is so big you can sit in it! Cool! Can I cut this out and send it in so I can get one? It’s free!”

“Free?” asked Dad. “I doubt it!”“It is!” Liam insisted. “It says so right here. Listen! ‘Mail this in to get your own

life-size race car model, absolutely free!’” He turned to his dad. “Can I do it, Dad? Please?”

Dad took the box and read the offer himself. “The car itself may be free,” he said, “but you need to send fifteen dollars for postage and handling.”

“That’s still not much, Dad,” said Liam. “Where else could I get a model that size for fifteen dollars?”

“When an offer sounds too good to be true, it usually is,” said Dad, “but if you want to use your own money, you can send it in.” So Liam sent his money on its way and waited eagerly for the car to arrive.

Finally, a package came for him. It was surprisingly small for a race car, and upon opening it, Liam found a lot of pieces of cardboard and plastic. “Looks like I have to put the car together myself,” he said. “Will you help me, Dad?”

Dad agreed to help, and when everything was finally in place, Liam stood back and looked at the car sadly. “If this is life-size, it must be meant for a two-year-old!” he said as he cautiously stepped into it. He sat down, and with one big KERPLOP the car collapsed. Liam sighed. “So much for the race car. You were right, Dad. When an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

“Unfortunately, that is almost always true,” agreed Dad. “But I can think of one big exception.”

“You can?” asked Liam. “What is it?”“God offers us the gift of salvation and eternal life, and because Jesus paid for it

by dying on the cross for our sins and coming back to life, it really is free.” Liam nodded as he looked at the race car. “I’m so glad God’s offer really is true!”

LINDA M. WEDDLE

SALVATION IS REALLY FREEKEY VERSE: THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH, BUT THE GIFT OF GOD

IS ETERNAL LIFE IN CHRIST JESUS OUR LORD. ROMANS 6:23

Have you ever been disappointed by a special offer? That will never happen with the free gift God offers—one so valuable you could never pay for it. The gift He offers is eternal life through a relationship with Jesus Christ. Don’t miss out on this amazing offer. If you have not accepted this gift by trusting in Jesus, do it today. (See “Have You Heard the Good News?” on page 102.)

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JUNE 14

VALUED TREASUREREAD: 2 TIMOTHY 3:15-17

As Elise walked past her parents’ room, she noticed her mother pulling a box from the closet shelf. “What’s in that box, Mom?” asked Elise.

“It’s full of old keepsakes,” said Mom. “Letters from your dad, photos, report cards, things like that.”

“Can I see it?” asked Elise. Mom nodded and handed her the box.Elise poked around and pulled out a flag. “Look at this!” she said after unfolding

it. “This is so beat up. Why don’t you throw it away, Mom?”“That flag was draped over my grandfather’s casket when he was shipped home

from the war,” replied Mom. “He gave his life in service to that flag.”“He died for this old flag?” asked Elise in surprise.Mom smiled. “What I mean is that he died in service to our country’s flag,” she

replied. “He died because he believed in our freedom.” She looked at the old flag. “He died before I was born, but that flag reminds me of him and of what he did for our country and for me. That’s why I keep it. It’s valuable to me.”

“Lots of soldiers died for the flag, didn’t they?” asked Elise.“Yes—for what it represents,” said Mom. “It’s a symbol for our country and the

freedom we enjoy here.”Elise nodded. “I know something we have that has lots more value than the flag

though,” she said. “It’s the Bible. My teacher at church told us many Christians throughout history have died for believing the Bible.”

“That’s true,” said Mom. “The Bible is God’s Word, and it tells us about the most valuable treasure of all—Jesus, who offers us freedom from sin and eternal life with Him. There are still places today where Christians are persecuted for believing God’s Word and following Jesus. Some are even killed because of their beliefs.”

Mom picked up the old flag, and together, she and Elise folded it. “When I remember that my grandfather was willing to fight and die for the freedom this flag represents, it makes me appreciate my country more,” Mom said.

Elise nodded. “And knowing there are Christians who are willing to give their lives for their faith in Jesus and His Word makes me appreciate my Bible more too.” BARBARA J. WESTBERG

TREASURE GOD’S WORDKEY VERSE: YOUR TEACHINGS ARE WORTH MORE TO ME THAN A THOUSAND

PIECES OF SILVER AND GOLD. PSALM 119:72 (ERV)

Do you realize the value of your Bible? Its content is worth far more than money. It tells of the greatest treasure of all—Jesus—and the freedom we can have through a relationship with Him. In some countries the Bible is illegal, and Christians risk their lives to read it and share its message with others. Be thankful for the valuable treasure God has given you in His Word.

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JUNE 15

PIECES OF A PUZZLEREAD: JEREMIAH 29:11-13

Regan sat at the table, working on her half-finished jigsaw puzzle. Holding a small puzzle piece, she stared sadly into space. “You don’t look very happy,”

observed Mom as she came by. “Something wrong?”Regan sighed. “It’s just that I’m tired of moving! Sometimes I wish Dad wasn’t in

the Army. We’ve moved so often in the last few years, and now we have to move again. It doesn’t seem fair.”

“I know, honey, but Dad and I feel the Army is the place God wants him to be,” said Mom. “We believe God knows what’s best for us, even when it includes moving a lot.”

“Well, I can’t see how leaving my friends could be best for me,” replied Regan. “I’m going to miss them so much!”

Mom took the puzzle piece from Regan and pushed it into its correct place. She pointed to the rest of the scrambled pieces lying on the table. “You know, this puzzle really doesn’t look very good.”

Regan frowned. “It’s a pretty picture! It’s just not finished yet.”“Exactly!” said Mom. “When you start a puzzle, you can’t see the whole picture,

and it may not look very pretty. But the pieces fit together, and little by little they begin to make a nice picture. That’s how God works through changes in our lives. At first, we may not see how they’ll fit. But when we remember that we’ve been saved and given eternal life through Jesus and that He promises to work everything out for our good, we can trust Him with the big picture.” Mom smiled. “Do you remember how you met Alessandra?”

“Sure,” said Regan. “The week we moved here, I fell while riding my bike and skinned my knee really bad.”

“Did you think that was a good thing?” asked Mom.Regan shook her head. “It really hurt, but now I’m glad

it happened. Otherwise, I might not have met Alessandra. She saw me and came to help, and now we’re best friends.”

Mom nodded. “God knew just how to put the right pieces together.”Regan smiled. “And if He did it once, He can do it again. I wonder what the next

piece of the puzzle will look like!” KAREN E. COGAN

GOD KNOWS WHAT’S BESTKEY VERSE: WE KNOW THAT GOD MAKES ALL THINGS WORK TOGETHER

FOR THE GOOD OF THOSE WHO LOVE HIM AND ARE CHOSEN TO BE A PART OF HIS PLAN. ROMANS 8:28 (NLV)

Are you worried and upset over changes in your life? Remember that you’re not seeing the whole picture. Like a puzzle, your life is made up of many pieces. God knows just where each one should go, and He knows when it’s time to put it in place. Remember how much He loves you, and trust Him to put the pieces together in the best possible way.

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JUNE 16

A MIGHTY TREEREAD: PSALM 1:1-6

Ben gaped at the humongous eucalyptus tree. His head was thrown back so he could look up, up, up to the crown. He and his father had planned a daytrip into

the lush Tasmanian rainforest just to view this megalith. “The Centurion is the tallest tree in Australia,” his dad told him. “At a hundred meters,

it’s one of the tallest trees in the world. Only a handful of redwoods stand taller.”“Is it as tall as a skyscraper?” Ben asked in awe.“No. But it is higher than London’s clock tower, Big Ben, and New York’s Statue

of Liberty.”“How can it stay up?” Ben asked, still gawping skyward.“Look at its base,” said Dad. “That massive system of roots reaches deep into the

earth, holding it in place.”After circling the trunk three times, stretching to see how far they could reach

around it and taking several snapshots, Ben’s father led the way out of the forest. “You know, the Centurion reminds me of the passage in Psalms that says a righteous person is like a tree.”

Ben laughed. “Will he grow leaves in his hair?”Dad smiled. “I think it means that someone who is rooted in Jesus will be able to

stand firm in his faith.” He gestured back toward the Centurion. “Can you imagine trying to push that tree over?”

“No way!” Ben exclaimed.“When we trust in Jesus, He will help us do what’s right, even when those around

us do something wrong.”“Like when the other kids tease Billy Mason because he stutters?”His father frowned. “Do you tease Billy?”“No.”“Do you stand up for him?”Ben hesitated then shook his head.“It can be hard,” Dad said. “Loving others and doing what’s right often makes us

stand out. But when we’re rooted in Jesus and rely on Him to help us obey Him, the Bible says we will flourish, just like the Centurion tree.”

Ben thought about this all the way back to the car. As they entered the parking lot, he picked a eucalyptus leaf and stuffed it in his pocket.

“What’s that for?” his father asked.“It’s just a reminder. For the next time my friends tease Billy.” MICHELLE ISENHOFF

STAND FIRM FOR WHAT’S RIGHTKEY VERSE BLESSED IS THE ONE WHO DOES NOT WALK IN STEP WITH THE

WICKED…BUT WHOSE DELIGHT IS IN THE LAW OF THE LORD. PSALM 1:1-2 (NIV)

Can you think of a time when you chose right when others did wrong? Were you teased for it? It may be hard sometimes, but when you’re rooted in Jesus, you can always choose to do what’s right. By His strength, you can grow to be like a mighty tree that stands firm in His goodness and love.

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JUNE 17

FISHING FOR PATIENCEREAD: JAMES 5:8

Caleb sat on the bucket Grandpa had turned upside down. He reached into the container

and grabbed a fishing worm. It felt cool and slimy between his fingers. He watched it curl up and around, struggling to get away.

“Let me show you how to bait your hook.” Grandpa reached for Caleb’s pole, and Caleb dropped the worm into his open palm.

“I want to bait the next one, Grandpa.”“You sure can. Just be careful of the barb on the hook.” He handed the pole back

to Caleb. “Now show me a good cast.”Caleb angled the pole over his shoulder and flicked it forward, letting the hook

and string fly out over the rippling water.“Great cast! Now we wait.” Grandpa opened a lawn chair and sat down.“What do you mean, we wait?” asked Caleb. “I don’t like to wait.” “We wait for the fish to find the bait,” said Grandpa. “We have to be patient.”Caleb frowned. “Mom tells me to be patient when it’s my birthday or Christmas

and I want to open presents.”Grandpa chuckled. “I bet she does. But learning patience is important.”“But it’s so hard!” said Caleb. “I get tired of waiting for dinner when I’m

starving, or helping my little sister learn to do things, or waiting for my favorite TV show to come on.”

“I know it’s difficult sometimes, but being patient is one way we show God’s love to others. Jesus showed a lot of patience. There were many times He had to be patient with His disciples. Even though they saw His miracles and listened to His stories, it took them a while to understand that He was the Son of God who had come to die on the cross for the world’s sins.”

“So if I’m feeling impatient, I should think about Jesus?” asked Caleb.“That’s a good idea,” said Grandpa. “He’s always patient with us, and He’ll help

you be patient too.” Caleb smirked. “Even if Mom is taking a long time to fix dinner?”“Yes, even then—though if you helped her, you wouldn’t have to wait as long,”

Grandpa said with a wink. He pointed to Caleb’s fishing line. “Hey, look! I think you have a bite. Reel it in!” LORI HULVEY

LEARN TO BE PATIENTKEY VERSE: BE COMPLETELY HUMBLE AND GENTLE; BE PATIENT,

BEARING WITH ONE ANOTHER IN LOVE. EPHESIANS 4:2 (NIV)

Do you struggle with being patient? Do you want things to happen quickly and in your time frame? When you find it difficult to wait for something, think of Jesus and how patient He is. He was patient with His disciples, and He’s always patient when He’s trying to teach you something too. Trust Him to help you show His love and patience to others while you wait.

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JUNE 18

LIGHT IN DARKNESSREAD: JOHN 1:3-5, 9-12

Thunder crashed loudly, and Raya gasped as the lights blinked once and then everything went black. “Oh no!” Garrett

exclaimed. “The storm knocked out our power. What do we do now, Dad?”

“Don’t move,” Dad told them. “I’ll go find some candles.”

“I’ll come too.” Garrett jumped up, took one step, and stumbled over something. “Ow!” he howled as he got up and sank back into his seat.

Soon Dad returned with a lighted candle in each hand. “There—how’s that?” Dad carefully set the candles down on the coffee table. “Now we can see again.”

“This is nice,” said Mom, leaning back in her chair. “I like candlelight.”“Well, it’s not very bright,” said Garrett, “but it’s better than the dark.” He rubbed

his foot. “Now I see what I tripped over—a book that fell on the floor.”Raya, who had been reading before the power went out, leaned toward the

candles to see better, but then put down her book. “It’s still pretty dark for reading. I’m glad we don’t have to use candlelight all the time, like they did hundreds of years ago.”

“I am too,” Dad agreed. “But even today people live in the dark.”“They do?” Garrett asked. “You mean, like blind people?”“Actually, I was thinking of people living in the darkness of sin. That’s much

worse than physical blindness,” said Dad. “If we’ve never seen the light of Jesus in our lives, we often think everything is just fine. But it really isn’t. The darkness keeps us from seeing clearly.”

“Like I couldn’t see anything on the floor tonight,” said Garrett. “I thought I could walk out of here, but I tripped as soon as I took a step.”

Mom nodded. “The good news is that no one has to stay in the dark. Jesus is the light of the world, and He offers His light to anyone who will trust in Him. His light is much more powerful than this candlelight.” As she spoke, the lights suddenly came back on and lit up the room.

“All right!” exclaimed Raya. “No more darkness here tonight!” LYNNE M. LEPLEY

JESUS IS THE LIGHT OF THE WORLDKEY VERSE: [JESUS SAID,] “I AM THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD.

HE WHO FOLLOWS ME SHALL NOT WALK IN DARKNESS.” JOHN 8:12

Do you have the light of Jesus in your life? Has it shown you that you’re a sinner in need of the forgiveness He offers? Or do you think you’re doing just fine on your own? If so, you’re walking in the dark. You need Jesus. He wants to come into your life and take away the darkness of sin. Invite Him in today. (See “Have You Heard the Good News?” on page 102.)

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COLOR!

Visit www.keysforkids.org/color for a how-to video from the artist who created this page!

Decorate.the candle.

[Jesus said,]“I am the light

of the world.He who follows

Me shall notwalk in darkness.”

John 8:12

Jesus is thelight

of the world

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JUNE 19

A REAL MASTERPIECEREAD: PSALM 103:8-12

I. think this is the best painting I’ve done yet,” Thea told her cousin Ava as they painted together after school one day. Thea held up her picture of a bright red

cardinal perched on a branch.“That’s so good!” said Ava. She studied it a moment. “I really like how you

outlined the wings here.” As she motioned toward the picture, her brush touched a wing, and green paint smeared onto Thea’s painting. “Oh no! I’m so sorry!” Ava exclaimed.

The girls tried to repair the picture, but the more they daubed and wiped, the worse it looked. Ava felt terrible. “Can you ever forgive me?” she asked, near tears. “I am so sorry!”

Thea was very disappointed but tried to comfort Ava. “Don’t worry about it. It’s okay.” She looked at the ruined picture. “I’ll do it over. It will be a masterpiece next time—you’ll see.” But she could tell Ava wasn’t convinced. “Really. It’s okay.” Thea tried to reassure Ava, but her cousin seemed to feel even worse than Thea did.

That evening, Thea told her family what had happened. “Ava still feels so bad about it,” she said sadly. “It’s like she doesn’t believe me when I tell her it’s okay. That makes me feel almost worse than having my picture ruined.”

“Well, I’m proud of you for your good attitude and forgiving spirit,” said Mom.“I am too,” said Dad. “But be patient with Ava. After all, we’re all like that

sometimes.” Thea looked at her father with a puzzled expression.“We want people to believe us when we say they’re forgiven, and God wants us to

believe Him too,” Dad explained. “But sometimes we don’t.” Dad smiled at Thea. “I remember a certain young lady who stained our new carpet after she was told not to take juice into the living room. She was sorry, and we forgave her.” Thea knew he meant her. “I also heard her confess it to Jesus—several times,” continued Dad. “He forgave her too—the first time she asked.”

“Then you reminded me that Jesus died so my sins could be erased, and that He always forgives me.” Thea grinned. “A life with all our sins erased—now that’s a real masterpiece!” DORIS L. SEGER

ACCEPT GOD’S FORGIVENESSKEY VERSE: I—YES, I ALONE—WILL BLOT OUT YOUR SINS FOR MY OWN SAKE

AND WILL NEVER THINK OF THEM AGAIN. ISAIAH 43:25 (NLT)

Do you believe Jesus when He says He forgives you? If you trust Him as your Savior, believe Him when He says He forgives all your sins. When you lie, disobey, say something unkind, or do something that seems even worse, confess it to Him. Believe what He tells you in His Word, the Bible—that through His sacrifice on the cross, all your sins have been forgiven and erased.

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JUNE 20

THE MASTER OF ILLUSIONREAD: REVELATION 12:9

He’s gone!” Jack said, staring at the screen. “I watched him the whole time, and he just disappeared from the stage.”

“That’s why he’s called an illusionist,” Dad said.Suddenly the illusionist reappeared—in the back of the auditorium. The audience

clapped and cheered. “I wonder how he did that,” Jack said. Dad shrugged. “I don’t know, but it’s a great trick. Did you know that the Army

used a disappearing trick once? Toward the end of World War Two, they put together a special force they named the Ghost Army.”

“Seriously? Did they put sheets over their heads to scare the enemy army away?”Dad laughed. “No, they were called the Ghost Army because they were there one

day and gone the next.”“You mean, it looked like they just disappeared?” Jack asked.“Right,” said Dad. “And it made our army look bigger and stronger than it was. The

Ghost Army were masters of illusion. They had many full-sized rubber tanks, trucks, and cannons they inflated to make it look like a huge army was coming to fight. Once the Ghost Army knew the enemy saw them and were coming to attack, they deflated everything, left quickly, and showed up someplace else.”

“Whoa,” Jack said. “That had to confuse the enemy.”“Yes,” Dad said. “They sent soldiers to one place when the real battle was someplace

else. They lost over twenty major battles that way, which helped us win the war.”“They made a bad choice,” Jack said. “I wonder if the Army still does tricks like that.”“I’m not sure, but the Bible tells us Satan is a master of illusion and tries to trick us.”“What does he try to trick us about?” Jack asked.“Satan wants us to think he’s bigger and more powerful than he is,” Dad said. “But

the truth is, he has no power over Christians. Anyone who trusts in Jesus has been freed from sin and Satan’s power. He tries to confuse us, but Jesus has given us the power to resist him.”

“So we don’t have to make bad choices like our enemies did in World War Two,” Jack said. “We can know Satan’s lying and trust and obey God instead.”

Dad nodded. “Exactly.” MATT SHOEMAKER

SATAN IS AN ILLUSIONIST KEY VERSE: YOU ARE OF GOD, LITTLE CHILDREN, AND HAVE OVERCOME THEM,

BECAUSE HE WHO IS IN YOU IS GREATER THAN HE WHO IS IN THE WORLD. 1 JOHN 4:4

Have you been confused by Satan’s tricks? Has he tried to make you think God doesn’t love you or that doing something wrong is no big deal? He is a master illusionist who tries to trick us into making bad choices instead of trusting God. But Satan has no power over Christians because Jesus defeated him when He died for our sins and rose again. Through Jesus, you have the power to resist Satan and his lies.

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JUNE 21

MADE AND MOLDEDREAD: ISAIAH 45:9-13

Mom! See what I made!” Greyson yelled as he came into the kitchen after school. He quickly put his

backpack on the table and dug out a brightly painted clay butterfly. “We made these in art class,” said Greyson. “It took us all week.”

“Very nice!” Mom said, setting some veggies and dip out for Greyson’s after-school snack. “I remember you told me you were doing that.”

Greyson nodded. “First we took the clay and molded it with our hands. Then we used plastic knives to trim it and make designs. When they were ready, Mrs. Evers put them in a big barrel thing—I think it’s called a kiln—to bake them. Today we could paint them any colors we wanted.” He grinned. “Isn’t Wally awesome?”

“Wally?” Mom asked.“Yeah, that’s what I named him.” “Well, you did a great job!” said Mom, picking up a pencil and paper. “What are you doing?” asked Greyson, biting into a carrot.“I’m working on the Sunday school lesson I’ll be teaching this week,” said Mom.

She smiled. “You know, it kind of reminds me of Wally. In a way, we’re a lot like him.”“How can we be like Wally?” Greyson asked.“Well, God made each of us like you made Wally. You designed Wally, and God

created each one of us according to His specific design. The Bible says God knit us together before we were born. He molded us into our shape and height. You chose the colors to paint Wally, and God chose our skin and hair and eye colors.”

“Cool!” said Greyson. “But I’m glad I don’t have to go into a kiln like Wally did.”“No, not a kiln,” said Mom, “but we do sometimes have to go through hard times.

When that happens, we need to trust God to help us through the circumstances He allows us to go through and use them to mold us to be more like Jesus. He not only created us, He became human Himself and died on the cross so we could have eternal life. When we face difficulties, we need to remember all He’s done for us and trust Him.”

Greyson smiled at his clay butterfly. “I’ll think of that whenever I look at Wally.” SARAH BERGMAN

GOD MADE YOU AND MOLDS YOUKEY VERSE: O LORD, YOU ARE OUR FATHER; WE ARE THE CLAY,

AND YOU OUR POTTER…WE ARE THE WORK OF YOUR HAND. ISAIAH 64:8

Did you know that God made you and chose physical features just right for you? He loves you just the way you are—so much that He sent His Son to die for you so you could live with Him forever. When you go through hard times, He will use them to mold you to be more like Him. Trust Him to work in your life and help you grow into the person He made you to be.

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JUNE 22

MAKING A SPLASHREAD: 2 CORINTHIANS 5:9-10; EPHESIANS 2:10; PHILIPPIANS 2:12-13

Kayla fidgeted in line for the summer camp’s popular water activity. Counselors monitored campers as they climbed an elevated platform, jumped onto a

brightly colored inflatable, and clambered to the end to await the next jumper whose impact would catapult her up and into the lake.

Kayla was excited. Now she wasn’t sure. She also wasn’t sure about lunch earlier. Kayla had remembered a sermon about

making a difference for Jesus and sensed she should leave her usual friends to sit by a girl who seemed lonely. But when Kayla tried to talk to her, the other girl mumbled, eyes downcast. Awkward! Worse, Kayla’s friends didn’t understand at all.

A counselor interrupted Kayla’s thoughts. Her turn! Kayla peered down. An older, larger girl was waiting. Kayla suddenly wanted to

bolt. Leave this platform. Leave this camp. Leave the challenges to someone braver.But too many people blocked the way. No turning back.Kayla drew a shaky breath and jumped. She did it! Then she realized her weight

had barely launched the other girl. Kayla’s cheeks burned as she scrambled into position, relieved it was almost over and that her own launch would be minimal. The girl behind her was tiny.

But when Kayla glanced back, her counselor, Maddie, grinned before cannonballing.

Kayla screamed in surprise and catapulted several feet before landing in the lake with a loud splash. When she bobbed to the surface, Maddie swam over.

“Was it fun?”“Actually, yes,” Kayla admitted. “I was nervous though, especially when I saw

you!”Maddie laughed. “One of the things we teach here is that we don’t get to choose

the size of our impact for Jesus. Just like each camper doesn’t get to choose how large a splash they make in the lake. The jumping order? It’s by the counselors’ design.” Her eyes twinkled. “Sometimes we mistake people who ‘make a big splash’ in life as more important. But what if our awkward, so-called failures are part of God’s plan to bring more people to Jesus? He alone knows the results. Our only goal is to please Him by trusting Him to help us do His will.”

Kayla thought while she walked back to her cabin. I don’t have to worry about the awkward lunch or the embarrassing launch—I just need to trust Jesus. PEARL ALLARD

TRUST AND OBEY GODKEY VERSE: THEREFORE WE MAKE IT OUR AIM, WHETHER PRESENT OR ABSENT,

TO BE WELL PLEASING TO HIM. 2 CORINTHIANS 5:9

Have you ever tried to make a difference for Jesus, but it didn’t go like you hoped? God is pleased when you obey Him and share His love with others. He knows how it will turn out in the end, even if it doesn’t feel successful to you right now. Instead of worrying about whether or not you made a difference, simply follow His lead and trust Him with the results.

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JUNE 23

THE BULLYREAD: 1 SAMUEL 17:42-50

Kage knelt behind a teacher’s car in the school parking lot. The morning bell had rung and he knew he would be late, but he didn’t care. Julian is late so

much, he thought, and he won’t tell me why. I’m going to see if I can find out. As Kage’s eyes searched the playground, he saw what he was looking for. An

eighth grader had Julian by the shoulder and was saying something. He shoved Julian against the wall and threatened him with his fist.

“That big bully!” sputtered Kage softly. He pulled his phone out of his pocket and put it in video mode just in time to get a shot of Julian reluctantly dropping some money into the boy’s outstretched hand. The bigger boy shoved Julian again and took off.

As Julian slowly headed toward the school door, Kage ran to catch up. “Hey, what are you doing here?” asked Julian in amazement.

“I saw that bully!” Kage replied. “And how he made you give him your money! Who is that kid anyway?”

Julian looked at the ground. “His name is Owen, and he’ll hurt me really bad if I tell anybody.”

“Well, you don’t have to tell. I will.” Kage held up his phone. “I got a video of him bullying you, and I’m going to show it to the principal.” He started walking toward the school building.

“Wait!” called Julian. “Aren’t you afraid Owen will get you? He’s so mean and scary when he gets mad!”

“Mrs. Prince won’t put up with bullying,” Kage told him. “She’ll contact his parents, and we’ll tell a bunch of other kids too. If Mr. Bully knows we won’t keep quiet about it and that everybody is against him, I don’t think I’ll have to worry. And besides…” Kage hesitated. “Remember the Bible story of David and Goliath?”

“Yeah, I remember the story,” Julian replied.“That giant was one big bully, but God was with David and helped him fight

against Goliath so he couldn’t hurt people anymore.” Kage grinned. “I know Jesus will help me stand up against bullies too.” MARY M. IHLENFELDT

STAND AGAINST BULLIESKEY VERSE: BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS! DO NOT BE AFRAID OR

DISCOURAGED. FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD IS WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO. JOSHUA 1:9 (NLT)

Is there bullying going on at your school? Have you talked to your parents, teachers, or principal about it? Whether it happens in person or online, bullying is a serious problem that hurts people deeply. It’s important to tell an adult if you experience it or see it going on so they can help stop it. And remember, you won’t be fighting it alone—Jesus will be with you. Show others His love by taking a stand against bullying.

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JUNE 24

THE LAST WORDSREAD: JAMES 1:19-20

I hate you!” yelled Lindy as she ran out of the house. She hurried to the corner where she

caught the school bus each day. It was already coming down the street. I’ll probably get grounded for saying that, she thought, but I don’t care! Mom makes me so mad!

Whenever Lindy’s anger began to fade throughout the day, she would feed it bitter thoughts—she wanted to stay mad. Why does Mom always say no? she grumbled to herself when she felt her anger weakening. Why can’t she be like Jasmine’s mom? She lets Jasmine do anything.

At lunchtime, Lindy opened her lunchbox. Tucked next to her sandwich was a note: Lindy, I love you. Mom. Lindy felt a little ashamed—but not too much. Mom just wrote that because she feels guilty for not letting me go to Bella’s party, she told herself.

By the time school was dismissed, Lindy had written out a long list of complaints to present to her mother. Some Bible verses suddenly came to her about how love keeps no record of wrongs and how Christians should forgive others the way they’ve been forgiven, but Lindy pushed them out of her mind. She had to have something to justify her angry words that morning, and there was a lot she wanted to say! She was looking at the list when the school bus squeaked to a stop near her street.

As Lindy got off the bus, she heard the scream of sirens, and a firetruck roared past and turned onto her street. A few minutes later she saw that its lights were flashing in front of her house. Terror gripped her, and she stumbled a little as she ran up the street. Is our house on fire? Where’s Mom? she wondered frantically.

Finally, Lindy spotted her mom standing near the edge of the lawn, watching the firefighters spray water over the burning storage shed in the backyard. Sobbing, Lindy ran into her mother’s arms. “Oh, Mom,” she whispered, her list of complaints forgotten, “I’m sorry for the way I acted! I love you!” She smiled at her mom, glad her words of anger and bitterness that morning were not the last words she’d have a chance to say. BARBARA J. WESTBERG

SPEAK WORDS OF LOVE KEY VERSE: DON’T BE ANGRY WITH EACH OTHER, BUT FORGIVE EACH OTHER…FORGIVE OTHERS BECAUSE THE LORD FORGAVE YOU. COLOSSIANS 3:13 (ERV)

Have you left home with sharp words and anger between you and someone in your family? Do you feed those feelings with bitter thoughts? People make us angry sometimes, but don’t let anger and bitterness have the last word. Deal with your disagreement in a loving way. Jesus loves you, and He put that person in your life. He will help you work toward forgiveness and understanding.

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JUNE 25

IT STILL HURTSREAD: PSALM 89:30-34

Chase wished he had listened to his mom when she told him not to jump his bike over the ramp he had built with planks of wood—but jumping his bike

was fun! I’ll do it just one more time, he thought when Mom went into the house. So he tried it again. The planks shot up as he hit the ramp, and all he could remember after that was the pain.

“Mom, I’m so sorry,” Chase said through tears after the doctor had set the two broken bones in his arm. “I shouldn’t have disobeyed you.”

“I forgive you,” said Mom. “But I’m not the only one you disobeyed. By disobeying me, you also disobeyed God, and you need to ask His forgiveness too.” Chase nodded. He and Mom prayed together, and then he felt much better, knowing he was forgiven.

The next morning, Chase was discouraged. The pain in his arm had kept him awake much of the night. “I can’t stand this,” he complained to his mother. “My arm hurts so bad.” Chase sighed. “If God forgave me for disobeying, why doesn’t He take the pain away? I asked Him to.”

“Chase, when we realize we’ve done something wrong and confess our sin, God is always willing to forgive us, but He doesn’t always take away the consequences of what we’ve done,” Mom explained. “We sometimes have to face those consequences.”

“What are consequences?” Chase asked.“They’re the result of our actions,” Mom said. “The pain you’re feeling in your

arm is the result of breaking your arm while you were doing something I had told you not to do.” Mom gently rubbed Chase’s back. “Now you’re suffering the consequences.”

Chase sighed. “I can see—and feel—what you mean!” Mom smiled. “It helps to remember that, for those who trust in Jesus, the

consequences of sin are only temporary. Because He took the punishment for our sin when He died on the cross, we don’t have to face the ultimate consequence of sin—eternal separation from God. The pain in your arm will eventually ease, and one day, when you see Jesus, you’ll never be in pain again.” RAELENE E. PHILLIPS

SIN HAS CONSEQUENCESKEY VERSE: RIGHTEOUSNESS AND JUSTICE ARE THE FOUNDATION

OF YOUR THRONE. PSALM 89:14

Have you ever had to face the consequences of sin—even after you confessed it? God always forgives confessed sin, but He doesn’t always take away the consequences. In this broken world, we often have to experience painful results of wrong things we’ve done. But if you know Jesus, the consequences won’t last forever. He experienced death, the ultimate consequence of your sin, so you could have eternal life with Him.

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JUNE 26

UNDER THE FIG TREEREAD: JOHN 1:43-50; HEBREWS 4:16; 1 JOHN 5:14-15

Yum!” Creed said, smacking his lips. “I sure do love your fig jam, Grandma.”

“I can see that.” His grandmother chuckled. “Have some more.”

“Where do you get all these figs from again?” Creed asked as he reached for another homemade biscuit.

Grandma looked out her kitchen window and pointed. “See those trees in the backyard? They were there when your grandpa and I moved into this house fifty years ago. A fig tree can grow to be fifteen feet high, and its branches can spread as much as twenty-five feet! Which reminds me, did you know the Bible talks about fig trees?”

“Really?” Creed said, his mouth full of fig jam. “I don’t remember that part.”Grandma reached for her Bible. “In the book of John, when Jesus sees a man

named Nathanael coming toward Him, He knows Nathanael is a devoted man of God. When Nathanael, who had never met Jesus, asks how He knows that, Jesus answers, ‘I saw you when you were under the fig tree.’”

Creed stopped chewing. “What’s that supposed to mean?”“Back in Bible times, it was common for people to search for a quiet place to

pray,” Grandma explained. “Fig trees represented a place of peace and safety where they could talk to God. What Jesus was telling Nathanael was that He noticed he was a man of prayer and that it mattered to Him.”

Creed tried to remember the last time he had prayed and spent time with God. It had been a while.

“One thing I’ve learned about prayer is that Jesus is always ready to listen, and He wants us to spend time with Him.” Grandma continued. “Prayer is powerful—don’t ever forget that, Creed. When we bring our feelings and problems to Jesus in prayer, the Holy Spirit works in our hearts and teaches us to trust Jesus in every situation. Even if He doesn’t answer our prayers the way we want, praying is important because it reminds us of Jesus’ love for us and teaches us to look to Him for all our needs.”

Creed nodded. “May I be excused? I’m going to talk to Jesus for a while. I’ll be under the fig tree out back if you need me.” KELLY HOPE

SPEND TIME IN PRAYER KEY VERSE: DEVOTE YOURSELVES TO PRAYER WITH AN ALERT MIND

AND A THANKFUL HEART. COLOSSIANS 4:2 (NLT)

Do you spend time in prayer each day? It’s one of the most important things you can do. Praying reminds you of Jesus’ love for you and teaches you to trust Him to provide everything you need. You might not have a fig tree to sit under, but try to find a quiet place to pray. Jesus is always ready to listen when you come to Him in prayer.

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JUNE 27

EXCITING NEWS!READ: PSALM 119:97-104

Alannah’s mom came into the living room and set her Bible, which was stuffed with notes and church

bulletins, on the table with a loud thump. “Alannah, why don’t you take a break from your homework so we can have devotions? We need to read about what happens to Elijah in the wilderness!”

Alannah groaned. “Can’t we do it later, Mom?” she said, repositioning her mom’s computer on her lap. “I need to finish researching birds for this paper I have to write.”

“That’s what you said an hour ago,” Mom reminded her. “You’ll have plenty of time to do that tomorrow. We need to do devotions so you can get to bed on time.”

“But I have other things I want to do tomorrow,” said Alannah. Just then, a message popped up on the screen. “Hey, Mom!” said Alannah. “You

just got an email from the Wilsons, and the subject line says, ‘Exciting news!’ I wonder what it could be!” The Wilsons were close family friends who had moved across the country the year before. It was sad when they moved away, but now Alannah was excited. “Maybe the good news is they’re coming to visit!” she said. “Let’s open the email and see.”

Mom shrugged. “Maybe later.” She opened the closet and took out a broom.“Later? But why not now?” Alannah asked.“Well, I want to sweep the floor right now, and then I want to finish the book

I’ve been reading. After that, it will be time to go to bed. Maybe I can read the email tomorrow.”

Alannah looked at her mother in surprise. “But, Mom! It’s right here! I can’t believe you’re not going to read it right away.”

Mom smiled. “Why do you find that strange? You have a message containing good news too, but you’re in no hurry to open it and read it.”

“I have a message?” asked Alannah. “What message?”“The Bible,” said Mom. “It’s God’s message to us filled with exciting news about

His love for us and how Jesus died and rose again to save us.” “But I keep putting off reading it,” Alannah murmured. She looked at Mom.

“Let’s do our devotions now. Can we just open the email from the Wilsons first?” Smiling, Mom agreed. LINDA M. WEDDLE

READ THE BIBLEKEY VERSE: AS COLD WATER TO A WEARY SOUL, SO IS GOOD NEWS

FROM A FAR COUNTRY. PROVERBS 25:25

Do you take time to read the good things God has to say to you in the Bible? Or do you have other things you’d rather do? The Bible contains the most exciting news of all! It tells how Jesus died and rose again and is someday coming back to make everything right. It gives advice and encouragement as you live your life for Him. Take time to read it—it’s God’s message to you.

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JUNE 28

NOT NORMALREAD: LUKE 2:40, 51-52; 1 CORINTHIANS 13:11

Whee!” Jaret cried. “Out of my way! My horse is galloping through.” Danika laughed as four-year-old Jaret zoomed past on his tricycle—a

cowboy hat on his head and his western-print bathrobe flapping behind him. “He’s having fun!” Mom said from where she and Danika were pulling weeds. Danika’s face clouded. “I wish I were a little kid zooming around on my

tricycle. I’d rather do that than pull weeds—or study!” “Well, we all need some time to relax and have fun,” said Mom. “But you’re at

a different stage of life than Jaret is. He’s little, so he needs to spend a lot of time playing in order to learn and grow. But at your age, you have the opportunity to learn by studying and taking on more responsibilities.”

Danika yanked a clump of weeds and frowned. “But school’s such a pain! Chores too. I just don’t see the point.”

Mom suddenly grabbed the hoe and began galloping across the yard. “Yeehaw!” she whooped. “See my horse? It’s a black stallion!”

“Mom!” Danika cried, jumping to her feet. “What are you doing? The neighbors will think you’ve lost it!”

Mom trotted over to Danika. “Why are you embarrassed about me but not about Jaret?”

“Because Jaret’s just a little kid,” Danika said. “It’s normal for him to do that. But you’re my mom, and it’s not normal!”

Mom put down the hoe. “But you just said you wanted to stay at Jaret’s level all your life.”

“I did not!” Danika cried. “In a way you did,” said Mom. “It’s normal to have very few responsibilities at

Jaret’s age, but at your age, it’s not normal. If you spent every day playing and having fun—if you didn’t go to school or do any chores—how could you mature beyond Jaret’s level? At your stage in life, even Jesus spent time learning and growing so He would be prepared to do God’s will and sacrifice His life for us. Trust Him to help you learn and grow so you can do His will too.”

Danika dusted her hands on her jeans. “Okay. I get it.” Then she grinned and reached for the hoe. “I’ll put your black stallion away before you decide to ride it again.” JESSICA DORFSMITH

LEARN AND GROWKEY VERSE: GROW IN THE GRACE AND KNOWLEDGE OF OUR LORD

AND SAVIOR JESUS CHRIST. 2 PETER 3:18

Do you ever grumble about schoolwork, chores, or other responsibilities? God created you to learn and grow through different stages in life. As you get older, He will use the things you learn to help you know Him better and point others to Him. Ask Him to help you make the most of each opportunity to learn.

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JUNE 29

WHEN YOU PRAYREAD: PSALM 145:17-19

Levi?” Mom stood at the door. “Levi!” she said again, but he didn’t look up from his computer until she walked over and turned the music down.“Oh, hi, Mom,” said Levi. “I didn’t hear you come in.”Mom nodded. “I just noticed Mrs. Grady struggling out there with her lawn

mower. Maybe you could help her with it.”“Right now? I’m trying to think of how to earn my last club badge.” Levi

pointed to his laptop. “It says here it has to be some kind of service to someone in need.”

As Levi scrolled around the screen, his younger brother raced into the room. “Levi, my bike is broken. Can you help me fix it?”

“Later, Nash” said Levi. “I have a project I need to work on right now.” Nash sighed and left the room. “This is the hardest badge of all to earn,” Levi said. “I don’t know any needy people—someone who’s sick or poor or anything like that.”

Mom smiled. “You know, I think you need to turn down more than just the music if you want earn this badge.”

Levi frowned. “What do you mean?” “You don’t hear the calls for help because…” Mom reached out and took the

computer from his lap, “this is making as much noise as that music.” She put the computer on the desk. “Have you asked God for ideas?”

“Yeah, I have,” Levi answered. “I asked Jesus to show me who I could help—not only because I need to earn my badge, but because I know He loves people and wants me to help them.”

“Okay,” said Mom. “Now come look here.” She led Levi to the window. He could see Mrs. Grady struggling with the lawn mower, and Nash was hunched over his bicycle. “It’s great you asked for God’s help, but you have to turn down the noise and pay attention if you want to hear His answer,” Mom said. “I think I see two answers to your prayers. What do you think?”

“I think…” Levi began slowly. “I think I see two people who need my help—two needy people. And I have a badge to earn.” Levi grinned and reached for his tennis shoes. HEATHER M. TEKAVEC

LOOK FOR GOD’S ANSWERSKEY VERSE: THE EYES OF THE LORD ARE ON THE RIGHTEOUS AND HIS EARS

ARE OPEN TO THEIR PRAYERS. 1 PETER 3:12

Do you look and listen for God’s answers when you pray? Or do you only look for the answer you want? God may not answer your prayer in the way you have in mind. He may want you to deal with the situation in a way you’re not expecting. Pay attention to how He leads you, and be open to whatever answer He gives you.

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JUNE 30

GETTING BUMPEDREAD: MATTHEW 12:34-37

You jerk!” yelled Adrian. “You spilled your orange juice on my art project, Isaac. Now I’ll have to do it all over again.” Adrian snatched up his paper. “I wish

you weren’t my brother!” “I’m sorry,” Isaac said, tears filling his eyes. “Hey!” Adrian’s voice got louder. “That’s not orange juice. It’s orange soda! How

come you got orange soda and I didn’t?”Hurrying into the kitchen, Mom confronted her angry son. “Adrian, you know

better than to call your brother names,” she said sternly.“Well, Isaac messed up my art project,” said Adrian. “Besides, how come he got

soda and I got orange juice? The glasses looked the same.”“There was one glass of orange soda left over from his birthday party

yesterday,” said Mom, “so I said he could have it. But you’re right—they looked the same. You didn’t notice what was inside the glass until it got bumped. Just like we didn’t notice what was inside you until you got bumped.”

Adrian shook his head. “Isaac didn’t bump me. He bumped his glass, and it spilled all over my art project.”

“I know,” said Mom, “but when something happens to mess up our plans or efforts, it’s like a bump that pushes us off course.”

Adrian looked confused. “What do you mean?” he asked.“When things don’t go our way, whatever is inside our hearts spills out. If our

hearts are filled with patience and kindness, gentle words come out. But if we harbor bad attitudes or anger, harsh words spill out instead.” Mom raised her eyebrows. “Isaac spilled punch, but you spilled harsh words. Which one is worse?”

Adrian looked at the floor. Then he turned to his brother. “I’m sorry I got mad at you and called you a mean name,” he said. “Will you forgive me?”

Isaac nodded happily. “I can help you with your art project if you want.”“Okay!” Adrian said. “But first I think I should ask Jesus to forgive me too.” Mom nodded. “He will—and He’ll also help you remember that He’s filled your

heart with His love so it can spill over onto others through your words.” LINDA R. STAI

OVERFLOW WITH GOD’S LOVEKEY VERSE: THE MOUTH SPEAKS FROM THE OVERFLOW OF THE HEART.

MATTHEW 12:34 (CSB)

What comes out when you get bumped—when things don’t go right for you? If you have a selfish, impatient attitude, confess it to Jesus. Remember that He’s filled your heart with patience, kindness, and understanding—the kind of love He has for each of us. Then when you get bumped, trust Him to help you let others see His love coming out from within you.

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GOD MADE YOU AND LOVES YOUGod created everything there is—including you! He loves you more than any person could ever love you. He loves all people and created them to live in a perfect relationship with Him.

THE BIBLE SAYS:SO GOD CREATED HUMAN BEINGS IN HIS OWN IMAGE. IN THE IMAGE OF GOD HE CREATED THEM; MALE AND FEMALE HE CREATED THEM. (GENESIS 1:27, NLT)

THE PROBLEM OF SINThe first people God created—Adam and Eve—disobeyed Him. This caused sin to enter the world, breaking the perfect relationship they had with God. We sin by doing things God says are wrong and making ourselves the center of our lives instead of Him. Because Adam and Eve disobeyed, every person is born a sinner. Our sin separates us from God, and because He is perfect, He must punish sin—and the punishment for sin is death. Not just death of the body but separation from God that lasts forever.

THE BIBLE SAYS:EVERYONE HAS SINNED; WE ALL FALL SHORT OF GOD’S GLORIOUS STANDARD.(ROMANS 3:23, NLT)

GOD’S PERFECT PLAN Because every person—including you—has sinned, every person deserves to be punished by death. But God loves us so much He sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to take the punishment for our sin. Jesus lived a perfect life on earth and then died on a cross in our place, even though He didn’t deserve it. But it didn’t end there—God raised Him back to life! Through Jesus’ death and resurrection, the punishment for sin was paid so we could be forgiven and have a relationship with God.

THE BIBLE SAYS:GOD LOVED THE WORLD SO MUCH THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY SON, SO THAT EVERYONE WHO BELIEVES IN HIM WOULD NOT BE LOST BUT HAVE ETERNAL LIFE. (JOHN 3:16, ERV)

WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?It means you don’t have to pay the price of death for your sin—Jesus paid it for you! When you trust in Jesus by believing He died and rose from the dead to save you from sin, God forgives your sin and gives you a new life as His child that lasts forever. Your grateful response to His wonderful gift is making Jesus the center of your life instead of yourself.

ARE YOU READY TO TRUST IN JESUS? Tell Him you know that only He can save you from sin and that you want to begin a wonderful relationship with Him. Still thinking it through? Answer the Key Questions at keysforkids.org/goodnews/keyquestions

HAVE YOU HEARD THE GOOD NEWS?GOD LOVES YOU SO MUCH HE DID SOMETHING AMAZING FOR YOU!

THE BIBLE—GOD’S MESSAGE TO ALL PEOPLE—TELLS THE WHOLE STORY.

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PRAYER POWER

Please pray that my dad gets a good job. –Min Min

I just got all four of my wisdom teeth out. Can you be praying that I have a safe recovery, and that I’ll just feel better than ever? –Annika

Please pray for me as I am practicing piano and also pray that I will get better at it. –Ashley

Please pray for my friend, she feels nobody listens to her or cares about her. –Michaela

Send us your prayer requests. Send mail to: Box 1001 • Grand Rapids, MI • 49501-1001

Or visit: keysforkids.org/Contact-Us

WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOUENCOURAGEMENTS, TESTIMONIES, PRAYER REQUESTS

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On a warm summer day, bees buzz on lavender, ants carry oversized loads to their nests, and butterflies flit about the garden, drinking in the nectar and

helping to pollinate beautiful flowers. Butterflies appear graceful and delicate, but they can thrive in most climates, from high mountainsides to dry deserts.

Most adult butterflies get to fly around for only a few weeks though. For most of its life, a butterfly has been first an egg, then a larva (caterpillar), then a pupa (caterpillar inside a chrysalis). It will eventually break a hole in the chrysalis and come out, resting its wings before flying away.

Once it emerges, it has important jobs to do! By drinking nectar, the sweet juice inside of flowers, and then flying to other flowers, it helps with pollination, or the transfer of pollen that allows for fertilization so new flowers can grow. Female butterflies lay eggs on plants that the young caterpillars will want to eat after they hatch. Some butterflies only eat one kind of plant, but some eat several different types of plants, or even fruit or the juice from dead animals.

The skipper butterfly, pictured on the cover, is sometimes overlooked or mistaken for a moth. Like many moths, it has a big, muscular body, and its small wings are often brown and orange or yellow. When their wings are folded up, some varieties can blend in with gray dirt. Some are called “cloudywing,” “duskywing,” or “sootywing”—nothing as spectacular or charming-sounding as the beautiful monarch, emperor, or satyr!

What if only the most beautiful butterflies pollinated flowers? What if skippers hid under a rock and refused to come out because they weren’t the most colorful in the garden? People sometimes feel that God can’t use their gifts and talents either if they aren’t as impressive as what others have to offer. But the Bible tells us that each one of us is made in God’s own image, and that we are “fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well” (Psalm 139:14, NIV). Jesus loves you just as you are. You have great worth! SONJA ANDERSON

The skipper butterfly is sometimes overlooked or mistaken for a moth.

WONDERFULLY MADE CREATURE FEATURE: SKIPPER BUTTERFLY