What Does the Bible Say about That? E-Book

Carolyn Larsen

• Herausgeber: Crossway
• Kategorie: Für Kinder und Jugendliche
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 484

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2009

Beschreibung

Hundreds of everyday topics and cartoons spice up this kid-friendly book to assure 8- to 12-year-olds that God's Word is relevant to their lives.Most kids don't realize it, but God's Word has a lot to say about the things they care about most-and this lively book leaves no doubt about it. Covering more than 300 everyday topics in conversational, engaging, one-page units, 8- to 12-year-olds will get biblical perspective on such topics as: homework, dieting, anger, sports, classmates, the telephone, puberty, careers, siblings, rules, self-confidence, world events, sleep, friendship, nature, movies, embarrassment, tattoos, integrity, and knowing God, plus many more.Each page of this kid-friendly book illustrates what a particular topic has to do with the Bible, what the Bible says about it, and how the Bible's teaching applies to readers, so that they begin to understand how relevant God's Word is to them. And with 200 original cartoons spicing up the presentation, What Does the Bible Say about That? is quite simply an unforgettably fun book for elementary-age kids-and a great conversation-starter for adults who know them.

Leseprobe

What Does the Bible Say about That?

Copyright © 2009 Educational Publishing Concepts, Inc.

Published by Crossway Books a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers 1300 Crescent Street Wheaton, Illinois 60187

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher, except as provided for by USA copyright law.

Typesetting: Educational Publishing Concepts

Cover design: Jessica Dennis

Cover illustration: Dana Thompson

Illustrations: Rick Incrocci

First printing 2009

Printed in the United States of America

Scripture quotations are from The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®, copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

Trade paperback ISBN: 978-1-4335-0213-2

PDF ISBN: 978-1-4335-0571-3

Mobipocket ISBN: 978-1-4335-0572-0

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Larsen, Carolyn, 1950-

  What does the Bible say about that? / Carolyn Larsen ; illustrated by Rick Incrocci.

         p. cm.

  ISBN 978-1-4335-0213-2 (tpb)

  1. Bible—Miscellanea—Juvenile literature. I. Incrocci, Rick. II. Title.

   BS612.L34 2008

220—dc22                2008026908

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Contents

Introduction

xi

C

A

Careers

23

Abandonment

1

Celebration

24

Abilities

2

Change

25

Abuse

3

Character

26

Addictions

4

Cheating

27

Ambition

5

Children

28

Angels

6

Choices

29

Anger

7

Church

30

Animals

8

Classmates

31

Apostles

9

Clothes

32

Arguing

10

Clubs

33

Attitude

11

Community

34

Authority

12

Compassion

35

B

Competition

36

Beauty

13

Complaining

37

Being Noticed

14

Compromise

38

Belonging

15

Confession

39

Bible

16

Confidence

40

Bitterness

17

Conflict

41

Blasphemy

18

Conscience

42

Books

19

Consequences

43

Boredom

20

Contentment

44

Boys

21

Control

45

Brothers and Sisters

22

Conversion

46

Coolness

47

Education

75

Cooperation

48

Embarrassment

76

Courage

49

Emotions

77

Creativity

50

Empathy

78

Crime

51

Encouragement

79

Criticism

52

Enemies

80

Crying

53

Environment

81

D

Eternal Life

82

Dancing

54

Evil

83

Dating

55

Excellence

84

Death

56

Excuses

85

Deceit

57

F

Decisions

58

Failure

86

Depression

59

Fairness

87

Diaries

60

Faith

88

Diets

61

Fame

89

Difficulties

62

Family

90

Disappointment

63

Fasting

91

Discipleship

64

Fear

92

Discipline

65

Fighting

93

Disease

66

Forgiveness

94

Divorce

67

Fortune-Telling

95

Doubt

68

Free Time

96

Drama

69

Freedom

97

Dreams

70

Friends

98

Drinking

71

Frustration

99

Drug Abuse

72

G

E

Gangs

100

Eating

73

Generosity

101

Ecology

74

Gentleness

102

Gifts and Talents

103

Honesty

131

Giving

104

Hope

132

Goals

105

Hospitality

133

God's Glory

106

Humility

134

God's Love

107

Humor

135

God's Protection

108

Hunger

136

Goodness

109

I

Gossip

110

Idleness

137

Grace

111

Idolatry

138

Grandparents

112

Immortality

139

Gratitude

113

Impulsiveness

140

Greed

114

Independence

141

Grief

115

Ingratitude

142

Guidance

116

Injustice

143

Guilt

117

Insensitivity

144

H

Insignificance

145

Habits

118

Integrity

146

Hairstyles

119

Intelligence

147

Happiness

120

J

Hatred

121

Jealousy

148

Healing

122

Joy

149

Health

123

Judging Others

150

Heaven

124

Justice

151

Hell

125

K

Help

126

Kindness

152

History

127

Knowledge

153

Holiness

128

L

Holy Spirit

129

Language

154

Homework

130

Laziness

155

Learning

157

Leadership

156

Life after Death

158

Neglect

185

Lifestyle

159

O

Limitations

160

Obedience

186

Listening

161

Obesity

187

Loneliness

162

Obstacles

188

Looks

163

Occult

189

Lord's Day (the)

164

Opportunities

190

Loss

165

Opposition

191

Love

166

Organization

192

Loyalty

167

Orphans

193

Lying

168

P

M

Pain

194

Mathematics

169

Panic

195

Meekness

170

Parents

196

Mental Cruelty

171

Patience

197

Mental Maturity

172

Peace

198

Mercy

173

Peer Pressure

199

Miracles

174

Perfection

200

Missions

175

Persecution

201

Mistakes

176

Perseverance

202

Money

177

Personal Hygiene

203

Moods

178

Physical Education

204

Motives

179

Physical Fitness

205

Movies

180

Physical Maturity

206

Music

181

Planning

207

N

Pleasure

208

Natural Disasters

182

Popularity

209

Nature

183

Possessions

210

Neatness

184

Poverty

211

Praise

213

Power

212

Prayer

214

Responsibility

241

Prejudice

215

Rest

242

Presence of God

216

Restlessness

243

Pride

217

Restrictions

244

Priorities

218

Results

245

Problems

219

Revenge

246

Procrastination

220

Rewards

247

Productivity

221

Right and Wrong

248

Profanity

222

Rights

249

Promises

223

Risk

250

Prophecy

224

Role Models

251

Protection

225

S

Provision

226

Sacrifice

252

Puberty

227

Sadness

253

Punishment

228

Safety

254

Purpose

229

Salvation

255

Q

Sarcasm

256

Quitting

230

Satisfaction

257

R

School

258

Racism

231

Science

259

Rebellion

232

Second Chances

260

Reconciliation

233

Security

261

Regrets

234

Self-confidence

262

Rejection

235

Self-control

263

Relationships

236

Self-defense

264

Repentance

237

Self-esteem

265

Reputation

238

Selfishness

266

Resentment

239

Sensitivity

267

Respect

240

Service

268

Shame

270

Sex

269

Sharing

271

Television

299

Sibling Rivalry

272

Telling the Truth

300

Sickness

273

Temper

301

Sin

274

Temptation

302

Sincerity

275

Tests

303

Singing

276

Texting

304

Slang

277

Thankfulness

305

Sleep

278

Thoughts

306

Smoking

279

Time

307

Snacks

280

Tiredness

308

Sorrow

281

Tithes and Offerings

309

Speech

282

Traditions

310

Sports

283

Tragedy

311

Stealing

284

Travel

312

Strangers

285

Trinity

313

Strength

286

Trouble

314

Stress

287

Trust

315

Stubbornness

288

Truth

316

Submission

289

U

Success

290

Unbelief

317

Suffering

291

Unborn Children

318

Swearing

292

Understanding

319

Sympathy

293

Unity

320

T

Unselfishness

321

Talent

294

V

Teachers

295

Values

322

Teamwork

296

Vengeance

323

Tears

297

Violence

324

Telephone

298

Vulnerability

325

W

Witchcraft

333

Waste

326

Witnessing

334

Wealth

327

Word of God

335

Weather

328

Work

336

Weight

329

World Hunger

337

Willpower

330

World Missions

338

Winning

331

Worry

339

Wisdom

332

Worship

340

Introduction

News flash! Learning to live for God doesn't happen overnight. Nope, it's a journey. Think about it—when you start out on a long road trip, more than likely your mom or dad has the trip mapped out. Well, your Christian life journey is mapped out, too—in the Bible. This amazing book is not just a bunch of "do this and don't do that" lists. It's the story of God's love for you and how his Spirit living in you will guide, protect, love, forgive, and love you again.

Newsflash Two: There will be times in your Christian life when you fall flat on your face. Yep, everyone does. That's because we're all fighting our sinful hearts that want to do things our own way, not to mention fighting Satan who wants to keep us from obeying God. But every time we disobey God or just totally mess up, he lovingly helps us stand up and try again. That's his grace in action—grace to forgive us over and over and help us learn from our failures and mistakes. Grace that teaches us. Grace that means he loves us.

What Does the Bible Say about That? will help you understand how God's love and grace is part of your everyday life. Yep, it is right there in the center of the thoughts, actions, and experiences you have every single day. God cares about every part of your life—the highs and the lows. And he wants you to know that he is not just "called into your life" when you are thinking about him or in church or praying. He's always with you. So, read what the Bible says about your thoughts, anger, family, friends, even homework (yes, God cares about homework). You'll see that you're not on this journey alone. God is right there with you, guiding, helping, and teaching—because he loves you!

What Does the Bible Say About Abandonment?

Someone left....A parent walked away from the family or your best friend turned his back on you. It hurts when that happens—a lot. Does God care that you feel betrayed and left alone? Of course he cares. He promises never to leave you alone.

What the Bible Say

No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you.

JOSHUA 1:5

For the Lord will not forsake his people; he will not abandon his heritage.

PSALM 94:14

And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

MATTHEW 28:20

Time to Face the Facts

Humans—people—mess up. Some people get caught up in self-centered ideas and they hurt other people, even people they love. Sometimes they abandon people they love. If that has happened to you, remember that you will never be abandoned by God. He is with you always, and he cares about everything that happens to you.

Today I will...

Thank God for being with me. Forgive anyone who has left. Read God's Word and start getting to know him better.

What Does the Bible Say About Abilities?

Many people have a secret dream to do something amazing. They dream of being the best athlete ever; a researcher who discovers the cure to some terrible disease; author of a great novel; or maybe a world-class musician. Dreams keep us going sometimes. Does each person have any unique abilities, though? Yep, God gave each person what she needs to be the person he planned.

What the Bible Say

Each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.

1 CORINTHIANS 7:7

Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith; if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching; the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.

ROMANS 12:6-8

Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much.

MATTHEW 25:21

Time to Face the Facts

You have what you need to serve God. He gave you the tools, but you must develop those abilities. Never fear, though—the seeds are there. Think about what you love to do ... what brings you joy and what others say you are good at. That's a good tip as to what God has given you.

Today I will...

Stop wishing I could do other things and start working at what I'm good at. Ask God to show me how I can use my abilities to serve him.

What Does the Bible Say About Abuse?

Abuse is no fun. It comes in different forms. It might be from someone constantly telling you that you're worthless. This constant assault of negative words tears down your self-image and confidence. Abuse can also be physical—being slapped around. Whatever it is, abuse is painful. God doesn't want you to suffer from abuse. He loves his children, and he tells his children to love one another. God's plan is love.

What the Bible Say

So whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets.

MATTHEW 7:12

Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.

ROMANS 13:10

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant.

1 CORINTHIANS 13:4

Time to Face the Facts

Abuse of any kind is wrong. If you are the victim of abuse, it would be a good idea to tell someone you trust. Your teacher or pastor would be a good place to start. Also, learn from these verses that being the abuser is wrong. God's desire is for you to love people around you, not hurt them.

Today I will...

Talk with someone about my situation if I am the victim of abuse. Think about how I treat others. If my behavior is abusive, I will change it... with God's help.

What Does the Bible Say About Addictions?

Imagine having a big, heavy chain wrapped around your ankle. The other end of the chain is attached to a tree. So, you're tied up, can't get away. That's what addiction is like. It controls your thoughts and actions. There are different kinds of addictions: drugs, alcohol, food, Internet, approval are a few. How does God feel about addictions? God wants to control your life. He doesn't want you to be controlled by whatever you are addicted to.

What the Bible Say

For the Lord your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God.

DEUTERONOMY 4:24

No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.

MATTHEW 6:24

Do you not know that if you present yourselves to anyone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one whom you obey, either of sin, which leads to death, or of obedience, which leads to righteousness?

ROMANS 6:16

Time to Face the Facts

Honesty time: What's controlling your thoughts and actions? Is it God or something else? If there's one thing you plan your life around—one thing you must do every day—then you have an addiction. Bottom line is God wants to be number one in your life. He is jealous of anything else.

Today I will...

Be honest. I will evaluate how I spend my time and admit if there is something that has pushed God out of first place in my life. I can't change that by myself, but I will ask God to help me. His strength can beat anything!

What Does the Bible Say About Ambition?

You've got drive—you've set goals and you'll do just about anything to reach them. Is that wrong? Nope. Doesn't God want you to be the best you can be? Sure he does. However, his wish is two-pronged: Be the best you that you can be, but don't forget to love him and others along the way.

What the Bible Say

Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

PHILIPPIANS 2:3

But we urge you, brothers, to ... aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you, so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.

1 THESSALONIANS 4:10-12

Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.

GALATIANS 5:2

Time to Face the Facts

Watch it: There's a fine line between having a lot of ambition and being filled with pride. It's okay to want to be the best at something, but don't push other people down in the process of lifting yourself up. Remember, God does want your excellent service but not at the expense of loving others. The greatest commandment is to love God, the second greatest is to love others. Don't lose sight of that.

Today I will...

Think about how I am treating other people. I know what my ambitions are, and I don't want to hurt anyone as I try to reach them.

What Does the Bible Say About Angels?

Are angels really those white beings with big fluffy wings that you see in pictures? Do they just kind of float around and sing all the time? Are they more important to God than people are? Here's the scoop: angels are God's messengers and workmen. They follow God's commands in taking care of you. How cool is that?

What the Bible Say

For he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.

PSALM 91:11

And the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus.

LUKE 1:30-31

And behold, an angel of the Lord stood next to him, and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him, saying, "Get up quickly." And the chains fell off his hands.

ACTS 12:7

Time to Face the Facts

Wow! God loves you! He really loves you! He commands his angels to watch out for you; they are probably doing that even when you don't realize it. You see in Scripture how his angels bring messages to people and how they protect people. It only makes sense that God still uses angels to do those same jobs. Aren't you so glad God loves you that much?

Today I will...

Thank God for the zillions of times he has sent his angels to protect me and watch out for me.

What Does the Bible Say About Anger?

It's no big deal if you blow your top once in a while, right? Everyone gets angry sometimes. God doesn't have rules about that, too, does he? Yep. God knows you're going to get upset sometimes, but he wants you to keep your cool and not say or do things you will be sorry about later.

What the Bible Say

Refrain from anger, and forsake wrath! Fret not yourself; it tends only to evil.

PSALM 37:8

Whoever is slow to anger has great understanding, but he who has a hasty temper exalts folly.

PROVERBS 14:29

Be angry and do not sin; do not let the sun go down on your anger.

EPHESIANS 4:26

Time to Face the Facts

Nothing good ever comes from losing your temper. You say things you shouldn't say and hurt people when there is no need to. When you're upset about things, don't lose your cool. Talk it over and state your feelings without saying mean things.

Today I will...

Keep my anger in control. If I get upset with someone, I won't shoot my mouth off; instead I'll calmly explain my feelings. This way I won't lose a friend and will get a chance to hang out with this friend again.

What Does the Bible Say About Animals?

From dogs and cats to elephants and lions, our world is filled with amazing animals. Some people take animals for granted, or at least they don't really think about them. Why did God make animals, anyway? Some kinds of animals are a food source, some are just very cute, and some are important to the environment. God made animals for different reasons, and he was happy with all he created.

What the Bible Say

God said, "Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds—livestock and creeping things and beasts of the earth according to their kinds." And it was so. And God made the beasts of the earth according to their kinds and the livestock according to their kinds, and everything that creeps on the ground according to its kind. And God saw that it was good.

GENESIS 1:24-25

By faith we understand that the universe was created by the word of God, so that what is seen was not made out of things that are visible.

HEBREWS 11:3

Time to Face the Facts

Think about all the different kinds of animals God made and what enjoyment they bring to people. From your pet cat, dog, or tarantula to the amazing big cats or tiny hummingbird, God's creativity is amazing. He wants you to respect and enjoy his creation. So ... go ahead.

Today I will...

Give my pet a hug and a treat. Thank God for every aspect of his creation. Appreciate the variety of that creation.

What Does the Bible Say About Apostles?

What's an apostle? It's not a word you hear in normal life. You don't call your friends your apostles, do you? If you do, they probably aren't your friends anymore. The official definition of apostle is someone who saw Jesus in person ... well, that's kind of official. So how does God feel about the apostles? He trusted them to learn firsthand from Jesus and then continue God's work on earth after Jesus went back to heaven.

What the Bible Say

Seeing the crowds, he went up on the mountain, and when he sat down, his disciples came to him. And he opened his mouth and taught them....

MATTHEW 5:1-2

Then he said to his disciples, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few; therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest."

MATTHEW 9:37-38

Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.

MATTHEW 28:19-2

Time to Face the Facts

Jesus taught the apostles how to serve him and how to teach others about him. Since that teaching is recorded in the Bible you know that he wants you to learn from it as you learn to serve him and teach others, too. The apostles were men who walked with Jesus on the earth. You have the opportunity to learn the same things they learned by reading about them. Then, you can teach others about God and his love for them.

Today I will...

Read some of the things Jesus taught the apostles. For example, I'll read the Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5-7 and learn one lesson today from what Jesus taught the apostles.

What Does the Bible Say About Arguing?

When you're right, you're right. If people don't understand that you are right, then your only choice is to argue with them, right? After all, they have to be convinced. Does God have a problem with that? Well, can you love someone and still argue with them all the time? Remember that God thinks loving one another is pretty important.

What the Bible Say

A fool's lips walk into a fight, and his mouth invites a beating.

PROVERB 18:6

But I say to you who hear, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.

LUKE 6:27

By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.

JOHN 13:35

Time to Face the Facts

Think about it... have you ever really changed another person's mind by arguing? Probably not. You may have scared someone into agreeing with you on the surface, but you probably didn't really change their mind. There's no love in arguing. It gets you nowhere.

Today I will...

Not argue. If I have a difference of opinion with someone, I'll calmly explain how I feel and hope that we can have a peaceful and intelligent discussion.

What Does the Bible Say About Attitude?

"My attitude doesn't affect anyone but me." Yeah, right. Have you noticed how you feel when someone in your family or a good friend is in a stinky mood? One bad attitude can spoil the attitudes of everyone else. God has strong feelings about attitudes and how you treat those around you. Read on....

What the Bible Say

Put on then, as God's chosen ones, holy and beloved, compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience, bearing with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgiving each other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.

COLOSSIANS 3:12-13

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

JOHN 13:34

Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful.

1 CORINTHIANS 13:4-5

Time to Face the Facts

Apparently (actually, for sure}, God cares about how you get along with other people. Your attitude is a big part of that because kindness, gentleness, and patience show that you love God and other people, which, by the way, he commanded you to do!

Today I will...

Adjust my attitude to not think only about myself. I will think about others—how they're doing and what they're feeling.

What Does the Bible Say About Authority?

"Someone is always telling me what to do! It feels like I have a million bosses!" Have you ever felt that way? Maybe you get so frustrated with everyone else's authority over you that once in a while you just ignore it. Or maybe when you get together with your friends you make fun of those authority figures. So what, right? The so what is that God has pretty strong feelings about your respecting those in authority over you.

What the Bible Say

Remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.

HEBREWS 13:7

Obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account. Let them do this with joy and not with groaning, for that would be of no advantage to you.

HEBREWS 13:17

First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.

1 TIMOTHY 2:1-2

Time to Face the Facts

Yep, God has instructions for how you handle authority: respect it and learn from it. Even Jesus respected authority; read what he prayed in Matthew 26:39 when he was facing the cross. The people in authority over you know more than you do (even if you don't believe that sometimes) and can help you learn how to be a strong adult and caring Christian.

Today I will...

Stop complaining about authority and listen to see what I can learn from those over me.

What Does the Bible Say About Beauty?

Beautiful people sure get a lot of attention in our world, don't they? Maybe you've heard the saying, "beauty is only skin deep." What does that mean? Is it saying that just having a pretty face or gorgeous hair isn't real beauty? Guess what? That's exactly what God says. He says that being beautiful from the inside out is what real beauty is all about.

What the Bible Say

But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart."

1 SAMUEL 16:7

Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.

PROVERBS 31:30

Do not let your adorning be external—the braiding of hair and the putting on of gold jewelry, or the clothing you wear—but let your adorning be the hidden person of the heart with the imperishable beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which in God's sight is very precious.

1 PETER 3:3-4

Time to Face the Facts

No matter how much time is spent on trying to "be beautiful" if you're not beautiful on the inside—loving God and others and trying to live in obedience to God—well, the outside stuff is a waste of time.

Today I will...

Stop concentrating so much on how I look, instead concentrating on how I'm living.

What Does the Bible Say About Being Noticed?

So I like people to notice me. I like to be the center of attention. Why not? I'm cute and funny and fun to be around. What's the big deal? God made you just the way you are. He's impressed with you ... but he doesn't want you to be impressed with yourself. Thinking about other people more than yourself is his preference.

What the Bible Say

But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.

ISAIAH 66:2

Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

MATTHEW 23:12

For by the grace given to me I say to everyone among you not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think, but to think with sober judgment, each according to the measure of faith that God has assigned.

ROMANS 12:3

Time to Face the Facts

It's not all about you ... don't think more of yourself or about yourself than you do about others. Give others a chance to shine while you take a backseat. Yeah, that's showing God's love to them. That's what it's all about.

Today I will...

Be quiet more often. Let others tell jokes or stories. Give someone else a chance to shine.

What Does the Bible Say About Belonging?

Everyone wants to belong somewhere. In your case, maybe you want to belong to a certain group at school. Maybe they are the "A" crowd. Or maybe you want to belong to a group that has the same interests you do—sports, music, theater... whatever. Is it wrong to want to belong? Of course not, as long as you remember that first and foremost you belong to God, and none of your efforts to belong to another group should compromise that.

What the Bible Say

The eternal God is your dwelling place, and underneath are the everlasting arms.

DEUTERONOMY 33:27

Listen to my voice, and do all that I command you. So shall you be my people, and I will be your God.

JEREMIAH 11:4

For as in one body we have many members, and the members do not all have the same function, so we, though many, are one body in Christ, and individually members one of another.

ROMANS 12:4-5

Time to Face the Facts

Right, there's nothing wrong with wanting to belong to some group unless you try to hide your relationship with God in order to be accepted. You can't put the fact that you're a Christian in your back pocket and just pull it out when it's safe. Any group that doesn't accept your faith just isn't worth belonging to.

Today I will...

Take an honest look at the groups I already belong to and the ones I want to belong to. Do they accept my relationship with God? I will not hide that in order to belong ... so I've got some choices to make. Here we go....

What Does the Bible Say About Bible?

Is this a trick question? Does the Bible say something about itself? It's just words, right? You remember the parts you like and forget about the parts you don't like. Yeah ... not so simple. God has definite ideas about his Word being honored and respected. Just read on....

What the Bible Say

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.

JOSHUA 1:8

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.

PSALM 119:105

All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness.

2 TIMOTHY 3:16

Time to Face the Facts

The fact is the Bible is God's instructions to you on how to live—how to obey him and how to treat others. Everything you need to know is in it. The only way you're going to get the info out is to read it, study it, and remember it.

Today I will...

Find a version of the Bible that's readable and understandable to me. Then, start reading and learning!

What Does the Bible Say About Bitterness?

"Come on/' you say. "Don't preach to me about not being bitter. If you knew what so-and-so did to me, you'd want them to fall into a cactus patch, too!" Okay, so you understand that bitterness means you're so angry and resentful that you will not consider forgiveness. God's Word shows that bitterness is not acceptable—you can't love and be bitter at the same time!

What the Bible Say

You have heard that it was said, "You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy." But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven. For he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust.

MATTHEW 5:43-45

Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.

EPHESIANS 4:31-32

See to it that no one fails to obtain the grace of God; that no "root of bitterness" springs up and causes trouble, and by it many become defiled.

HEBREWS 12:15

Time to Face the Facts

You can try a million ways to justify your bitterness toward someone else, but it will never be the right way to live. God says bitterness is wrong. He says to love your enemies and pray for them. Bitterness only causes more problems in the long run.

Today I will...

Sigh ... ask God to help me get over being bitter. Ask his help in forgiving the person I've been so angry at. I can't do this without God's help.

What Does the Bible Say About Blasphemy?

Right, you're a kid—what do you know about blasphemy? Do you even know what it is? Here's a simple definition: blasphemy is insulting or showing contempt for God. Truthfully, it is "dissing" God by ignoring who he is or not giving him credit for what he does. Blasphemy does not please God. He wants your worship and respect. He wants to be the only God in your life.

What the Bible Say

You shall worship no other god, for the Lord, whose name is Jealous, is a jealous God.

EXODUS 34:14

The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.

PROVERBS 22:4

Truly, I say to you, all sins will be forgiven the children of man, and whatever blasphemies they utter, but whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit never has forgiveness, but is guilty of an eternal sin.

MARK 3:28-29

Time to Face the Facts

Whoa ... blasphemy is serious. God commands respect and honor. He demands to be the only One you worship. Do you give him that honor and respect? Do you give him the credit for all he does, for his power, his love? Maybe you'd better reevaluate your thoughts.

Today I will...

Do some serious thinking on what my true, heart opinion of God is. If it doesn't seem to be respect and honor, I'll get busy changing that by reading my Bible and learning all I can about him.

What Does the Bible Say About Books?

Do you love to read? It's fun to pick up a book and get lost in the story as you let your imagination visualize the characters and setting. Books are also a great way to learn new things and explore new ideas that make you think and cement your beliefs in your mind. Is it weird to think that God has an opinion about books? He must because he encourages you to grow and think and enjoy the blessings he provides for you.

What the Bible Say

Wisdom gives strength to the wise man more than ten rulers who are in a city.

ECCLESIASTES 7:19

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change.

JAMES 1:17

Time to Face the Facts

Books and the wisdom they give and the entertainment they give are gifts from God. They are a means of learning and exploring as well as exercising your mind. Enjoy them, celebrate them, and turn off the TV and computer so you can enjoy them. However,; be careful that the books you choose to read have topics and content that honor God and the way he wants you to live.

Today I will...

Turn off the TV and computer and sit down with a good book. Ill exercise my brain and imagination as I read, and yes, I will be careful about my choices of topics.

What Does the Bible Say About Boredom?

Nothing exciting going on? Every day is a ho-hum copy of the one before it? You can't find anything that grabs your attention and where you'd like to put your energy? Does Almighty God really care whether or not you're bored? Think about this, he went to a lot of creative work to give you things to look at and stuff to do.

What the Bible Say

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.

GENESIS 1:1

For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him.

COLOSSIANS 1:16

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.

1 CORINTHIANS 12:4-6

Time to Face the Facts

There is really no reason to be bored. God made an amazing world filled with creative creations for you to enjoy. He gave you abilities and talents to share with the world. He placed people around you whom you can enjoy or help as situations arise. Being bored is a waste of time!

Today I will...

Look around and see things I may have missed before. Enjoy creation; help someone; work on developing a talent ... just do something!

What Does the Bible Say About Boys?

This one is for girls only. Maybe you've started noticing these interesting creations of God and caring what boys think of you. Even if you're not there yet, there may be some of your friends who talk about boys all the time. Does God have an opinion on the whole boy/girl thing? Yep, he does, and while he wants you to enjoy each other, he's big into keeping things pure.

What the Bible Say

The body is not meant for sexual immorality, but for the Lord, and the Lord for the body.

1 CORINTHIANS 6:13

No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.

1 CORINTHIANS 10:13

For this is the will of God, your sanctification: that you abstain from sexual immorality; that each one of you know how to control his own body in holiness and honor.

1 THESSALONIANS 4:3-4

Time to Face the Facts

Maybe sex is the farthest thing from your mind right now. Good. You're just trying to figure out how to talk to a boy and not sound like a babbling fool. Yeah, that's the process. You'll learn it and maybe even enjoy the process. But here's a thought—make some firm choices right now that you will remain pure in your relationships with boys. Decide that now and never waver from it.

Today I will...

Thank God for boys. Make a commitment to God that I will remain pure in my relationships.

What Does the Bible Say About Brothers and Sisters?

Brothers and sisters get on your nerves and can be so annoying, right? Does God care if you fight with them or even pick on them once in a while? Isn't that just what brothers and sisters do? You need to know that God does care. Not only are families a gift from him, he wants you to show his love to everyone!

What the Bible Say

Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.

PROVERBS 17:27

See that no one repays anyone evil for evil, but always seek to do good to one another and to everyone.

1 THESSALONIANS 5:15

Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God, and whoever loves has been born of God and knows God.

1 JOHN 4:7

Time to Face the Facts

You don't get a pass on treating your brothers and sisters with love. God wants you to control your temper and show love to your family. Even though that may be harder than showing love to your friends, when you do it, you're showing that you know God.

Today I will...

Control my temper when one of my siblings annoys me. Just once ... it's a start!

What Does the Bible Say About Careers?

Have you started thinking about what you want to be when you grow up? If you don't know yet, don't worry, some grown-ups don't know yet either. Does God care about what career you choose? Actually, he does. He has given you intelligence, talents, and abilities, and he has a definite plan for your life.

What the Bible Say

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.

JEREMIAH 29:11

Each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.

1 CORINTHIANS 7:7

He gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ.

EPHESIANS 4:11-12

Time to Face the Facts

How cool is it that God has a plan for you? He has already given you the tools you need for the career ahead of you. All you have to do is develop those tools. You can be sure you already have an interest and maybe even a passion for whatever it is. Ask him to open your eyes to it and to help you learn more and more so you're ready to jump right in some day.

Today I will...

Think about where my passions lie. What do I get excited about? How can that passion grow into a career where I can serve God by honoring him and others?

What Does the Bible Say About Celebration?

Who doesn't like a party? Especially if it is for you, right? Birthday parties or celebrations of accomplishments honor someone, and usually food and gifts are involved. Cool. How does God feel about celebrations? He likes them when they celebrate the right things. He encourages his people to take time out from ordinary life to celebrate things.

What the Bible Say

For the Lord your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands. He knows your going through this great wilderness. These forty years the Lord your God has been with you. You have lacked nothing.

DEUTERONOMY 2:7

Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready for this day is holy to our Lord.

NEHEMIAH 8:10

Clap your hands, all peoples! Shout to God with loud songs of joy!

PSALM 47:1

Time to Face the Facts

The best things to celebrate are God's gifts, love, and protection. Celebrate God! That includes celebrating life (birthdays) and accomplishments, which are possible because of the wisdom, skill, and talents he has given you. So, go ahead and celebrate ... but don't forget to include God in the celebrations and to thank him for making it all possible!

Today I will...

Enjoy all God has given me and make every day a mini-celebration of thanks to him.

What Does the Bible Say About Change?

Change ... stinks. At least sometimes it does. Change means loved ones moving away. Change happens when a parent loses a job, which means financial changes for the family. Changing schools is tough. The bottom line is change is seldom easy, even if it's a change for good. God knows that change is hard for you. That's why he encourages you to hang on to him and let him be your anchor in whatever changes life brings.

What the Bible Say

The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

PSALM 9:9

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

HEBREWS 13:8

Casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you.

1 PETER 5:7

Time to Face the Facts

It's comforting to know that God cares about the struggles of life. He cares about how hard change is for you. He is the one thing in this whole world that never changes. He is always the same. So, when you turn to him for comfort and help, he is always there and he will always comfort you. When the changes of life start knocking you down ... let him pick you up.

Today I will...

Tell God about the changes that are upsetting me. Ask him to help me see beyond what's changing to what the future holds and how exciting that will be.

What Does the Bible Say About Character?

What do people say about you? Are you honest? Are you kind? Are you dependable? What people say about you reflects what your character is. Character is who you are—the real you. God has pretty strong opinions about character. He wants his children to have character that reflects who he is.

What the Bible Say

For you are a people holy to the Lord your God. The Lord your God has chosen you to be a people for his treasured possession, out of all the peoples who are on the face of the earth.

DEUTERONOMY 7:6

And we all, with unveiled face, beholding the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from one degree of glory to another. For this comes from the Lord who is the Spirit.

2 CORINTHIANS 3:18

More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

ROMANS 5:3-5

Time to Face the Facts

You belong to God's family, and the family likeness should show in your character. Kindness, generosity, love, honesty, courage ... and on and on are characteristics of God. So, being unkind and dishonest and just plain mean are not things you want in your character.

Today I will...

Take an honest look at myself and see whether there are things in my character that should be changed. That's not going to be easy, but I'll ask God to help me.

What Does the Bible Say About Cheating?

You "accidentally" notice someone else's answer on a test question. Or a store clerk gives you too much change, and you just slip it in your pocket. You pad your score in a game so you win ... these are all examples of cheating. Some cheats are so small—no big deal, right? Wrong. Honesty in all things is what God desires from you.

What the Bible Say

You shall do what is right arid good in the sight of the Lord, that it may go well with you.

DEUTERONOMY 6:18

A false balance is an abomination to the Lord, but a just weight is his delight.

PROVERBS 11:1

One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much, and one who is dishonest in a very little is also dishonest in much.

LUKE 16:10

Time to Face the Facts

No one likes to be the victim of cheating. Remember that when you're tempted to cheat. Someone is always the victim. A person who is obeying God and living for him will try her best to be honest in all things, even when it's hard. Honesty is really the best policy.

Today I will...

Not cheat. Yeah, even when it's hard because it means I come in second in a game or don't do well on a test or don't have much money. I want to obey God and live the way he wants.

What Does the Bible Say About Children?

You probably feel that there are times when your opinions don't count because, after all, you are just a kid. Adults have more power, so they are more important, right? Well, that is true in some ways, but children do matter to God. He planned childhood as a time to learn and grow and as a more carefree time to have fun and enjoy life before taking on lots of responsibilities.

What the Bible Say

And [Jesus] said, "Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Whoever humbles himself like this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven."

MATTHEW 18:3-4

And he took a child and put him in the midst of them, and taking him in his arms, he said to them, "Whoever receives one such child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me, receives not me but him who sent me."

MARK 9:36-37

Time to Face the Facts

Children were important to Jesus. He encouraged grown-ups to have a simple faith like children do. So, that means, as a kid, your faith is important. Remember that God made this beautiful world for you to enjoy. Enjoy all of God's creations.

Today I will...

Understand that I am important to God. I will enjoy this time of life when I don't have a lot of heavy responsibilities but will watch and learn so I can be a responsible adult.

What Does the Bible Say About Choices?

Life is filled with choices. Every day you face little ones such as what to wear or what to eat. Some things you do are choices you don't even think about such as what tone of voice you use to answer your mom or dad or how kind you are to people around you. Does God really care about those little everyday choices? Yep. God wants all of your choices to be to show love to those around you and to him.

What the Bible Say

Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.

PSALM 25:4

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without reproach, and it will be given him.

JAMES 1:5

But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil.

HEBREWS 5:14

Time to Face the Facts

God will help you make choices... even the little ones. Just ask him. Remember that the choices you make show how you feel about obeying God deep inside. They also show how much you respect other people.

Today I will...

Admit that even my little choices reflect my opinion of God and how important he is in my life. I'll think about that.

What Does the Bible Say About Church?

Okay, be honest—how do you feel about church? Is it boring to you? Does it have no connection to your everyday life? Do you spend service times writing notes to your friends or daydreaming? Here's the scoop on what God thinks: he instructs his children to get together to worship him and to pray. He believes that being together with others who believe will be an encouragement.

What the Bible Say

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.

HEBREWS 10:24-25

Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!

ECCLESIASTES 4:9-10

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.

JAMES 5:16

Time to Face the Facts

Church is important. It's a good thing to meet with others to study God's Word and to be encouraged in your Christian life. Yeah, sometimes some things may be boring to you, but that's okay. If you're bored, read your Bible or pray. But also realize that the boredom might be your fault—your mind and heart need to be open to learning about God.

Today I will...

Admit it... sometimes I don't pay attention in church. I'll give it a try and see if I learn anything. I'll thank God for my church and for our pastor. Ill be thankful for my Sunday school teacher, too, and that all of them care about me.

What Does the Bible Say About Classmates?

"Some of my classmates are a pain in the neck because they brag about their good grades or how good they are at sports. I don't have to like all of them, do I?" Are those things you might have said? Does God really want you to like everyone? God wants you to love everyone. That doesn't mean you're going to be best friends with everyone, but that you will treat them with love and respect.

What the Bible Say

Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all offenses.

PROVERBS 10:12

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.

JOHN 13:34

Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.

1 PETER 4:8

Time to Face the Facts

Not everyone is easy to love, and people whom you just know at school can easily fall into that category. But guess what? Your classmates are a great mission field, and the way you treat them may be the first impression of God and his children that some of them ever have.

Today I will...

Show love to my classmates. That doesn't mean I'm going to be best friends with all of them, but I can be kind, honest, and fair. I don't want to do or say anything that will give them a bad impression of who God is.

What Does the Bible Say About Clothes?

Fancy designer duds or baggy hole-filled jeans ... what's your style? Does it bug you that some kids have tons of the exact clothes you want? Do you spend lots of time thinking about clothes, shopping for them, or begging your parents for more? Does God care what you wear? Yes, God does care about things you care about. He promises to take care of your daily needs.

What the Bible Say

Do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?

MATTHEW 6:25-26

Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you? ...

MATTHEW 6:28-30

Time to Face the Facts

It's okay to want to look good. It's okay to have "a style." What isn't okay is to be so focused on what you wear that you get jealous of others or spend tons of time thinking about clothes. Face it ... there are more important things than what you wear. Just be glad you have any clothes at all.

Today I will...

Try to stop focusing on getting the clothes I want. Yes, I will be thankful that I have clothes to wear.

What Does the Bible Say About Clubs?

There are generally two views about clubs—if you're in one, you love being a part of it. If you're not, then you may think clubs are kind of snooty. Clubs can easily become cliques. It's nice to be part of a group of people who have the same interests you do. But there is the real danger of excluding other people. How does God feel about this? Clubs are fine ... but nothing should be more important to you than God is, and you should always show love to other people.