Keys for Kids - daily devotions and Bible stories for kids and families

Episodes

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  Smell of Sin 25.09.2026 4m

  Read: James 1:13-16 Mitchell sniffed the air as he walked into the house. “Mmm, cookies! Can I have one, Mom?” “Not right now,” said Mom. “They need to cool, and we’re going to be having dinner soon. You can have one for dessert after we eat.” “Okay,” said Mitchell, but he looked longingly at the cookies as they cooled on the counter. They smelled so good, and he knew they tasted even better. He was still standing there, looking at them, when his mother took another cookie sheet from the oven. “The more I smell these cookies, the more I want one,” he said. “Can’t I just have a small one?” Mom shook her head. “It would be easier to wait if you went somewhere else instead of standing there where you can see them and smell them,” she said. “Remember the Bible verse you learned last week?” “You mean the one about God always providing a way to escape temptation so we don’t have to give in to it?” asked Mitchell. “That’s the one,” said Mom. “And I think the way to escape this temptation is to go outside and play.” “But cookies aren’t bad,” said Mitchell. “It’s not a sin to eat a cookie.” “True,” said Mom, “but if you stay around the cookies long enough, you might give in to the temptation to eat one. And then you’d be disobeying me, which is a sin.” Mitchell sighed. “Okay, I’ll go outside.” He left the kitchen and went out the door to the garage. He was shooting baskets in the driveway when his mother called him to come in for dinner. “You were right, Mom,” he said as he sat down at the table. “The cookies quit bothering me after I got away from them. When I got busy doing something else, I forgot all about them.” Mom nodded. “As Christians, we can always say no when we’re tempted to sin because Jesus freed us from sin, and it has no power over us anymore. But it’s still a good idea to get away from things that we know will tempt us. Sometimes that’s the best way to avoid giving in!” –Pamela J. Kuhn How about you? Is it hard for you to say no to sin? When you’re tempted to do something wrong, remember that if you trust in Jesus, He has freed you from sin, and you don’t ever have to give in to it. But it’s still a good idea to avoid putting yourself in situations where you know you’ll be tempted. Ask God for guidance in knowing when to stay away from something. When you do find yourself in a tempting situation, trust Him to show you a way out. Today’s key verse: But when you are tempted, God will also give you a way to escape that temptation. Then you will be able to endure it. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (ERV) Today’s key thought: Avoid temptation
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  Libby’s Grief 24.09.2026 4m

  Read: John 11:32-35; 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 “Mom?” Libby stepped into the apartment kitchen. She had heard movement; she knew someone was up. “What’s going on, sweetie? It’s early.” Mom sat at the island with a steaming mug in front of her. “I can’t stop thinking about BJ,” Libby said. “I miss him, Mom.” Mom held out an arm, pulling Libby close when she walked over to her. “I was thinking about him this morning too.” Libby’s eyes filled. “He’s been gone for months. When am I going to stop crying?” “We can’t rush the grieving,” Mom said. “Your brother was very important to us.” “Allie said that her dad doesn’t want her crying anymore,” Libby said. She and her best friend were dealing with the same thing. Their older brothers had both lost their lives on the same day, in the same crash. “She said he told her that she’s cried enough and needs to get over it.” “Poor Allie,” Mom said quietly. Libby looked down at the floor. “Is that what Jesus thinks?” she asked. “That I need to stop crying about it?” “Jesus? No.” Mom rubbed her shoulder. “Jesus understands your pain. He’s not going to rush your grieving or get upset when you cry.” “Are you sure?” “Yes,” Mom said confidently. “There’s actually a time in the Bible where we see Jesus in a situation that we can relate to,” she said. “Mary had lost her brother Lazarus, who was Jesus’s friend, and she was upset about it. When Jesus saw her weeping, He cried too. He had lost His friend, and He also felt the pain of the sister who had lost her brother. He didn’t try to stop Mary from grieving. He grieved with her.” “Do you think Jesus cares about me and the pain I’m feeling?” Libby asked. “I know that He does,” Mom said. “He loves you, and it hurts Him to see you hurting.” She squeezed Libby’s shoulder. “Why don’t we talk with Him now while I make you some hot chocolate?” “With marshmallows, the way BJ loved it?” Libby asked. Mom smiled and wiped her eyes. “With marshmallows,” she said. –Emily Acker How about you? Have you lost someone you were close to? Maybe your grandparent passed away, or maybe a parent left. Did you feel guilty for grieving? Did you feel like you could only cry about it for so long and then you had to get over it? There is no time limit on grief. Losing a loved one hurts, and Jesus understands that. He sees your tears and is with you in your grief. Today’s key verse: The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. Psalm 34:18 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Jesus sees your pain
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  Suffer the Consequences 23.09.2026 4m

  Read: 1 Peter 2:21-25 Ian picked up a crumpled piece of paper from the ground and opened it up. It was a flyer advertising a sale at one of the local stores. He crumpled it back up and threw it on the ground. “Why did you do that?” Mom called to Ian from the porch. “It’s nothing important,” Ian said. “Besides, that’s how I found it. Someone else left it there like that.” He kicked the paper to the side of the sidewalk. “Ian, pick it up and throw it away, please. I know you’re not the one who put it there in the first place, but we all need to do our share in keeping our neighborhood looking nice, even if that means picking up trash that belongs to someone else.” Ian sighed and picked up the paper. “This is the second time this week I got stuck with the consequences for something someone else did,” he said, thinking of the day before when his younger twin brothers were acting up at the park and Mom had taken them all home early. He threw the crumpled paper in the trash and sat down on the porch next to his mother. “I know it seems like you’ve been suffering the consequences for other people’s behavior lately,” said Mom, “but remember there have been times when others have picked up your trash. In fact, I often pick up your candy wrappers around the house. And I seem to recall that the last time I had to take everyone home early from a fun outing was because of something you did. There is only one person who was completely innocent and suffered the consequences for those who were at fault. Do you know who that was?” Ian thought it over. “Was it Jesus?” Mom nodded. “Jesus never sinned, but He died on the cross to take the punishment for our sins. He suffered the consequences we deserved so we could have eternal life with Him.” Ian kicked at a leaf that had blown onto the porch. “I’m really glad He did that,” he said. “When I have to deal with the consequences of what other people do, I’ll remember what Jesus did for me.” –Melissa Yeagle How about you? Have you suffered consequences for something someone else did? Even though you may not have done anything wrong then, you’ve done plenty of other wrong things. We’re all sinners who deserve to suffer the consequences of our sin, which is eternal death, or being separated from God forever. But Jesus died so we wouldn’t have to. He suffered the consequences you deserve so you could have eternal life with Him. (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News?) Today’s key verse: For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: Jesus suffered the consequences of our sin
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  Reluctant Rest 22.09.2026 4m

  Read: Genesis 2:1-3; Mark 4:35-38; 6:30-32 Lilia pulled her paddle into the canoe and laid it over her lap. Spencer followed her direction and did the same. After a few moments of floating down the river confused, Spencer spoke up. “Hey, Lilia,” he asked his sister, “why did we stop paddling?” “Well, we’ve been paddling down this river for close to an hour, and I think it’s time we took a rest,” said Lilia. “But I’m not tired! I don’t think we need a rest. Let’s keep going!” “Sometimes we need to rest even when we don’t feel like we need it. Plus, we need to rest up to paddle all the way back,” Lilia reasoned. Spencer groaned, still not convinced. “You know, I’m not the only one who tells you to rest,” Lilia said. “I know,” Spencer huffed. “Mom and Dad do too.” “And God tells you to rest too!” Lilia added, splashing a little water toward Spencer. “He does?” Spencer asked, splashing water right back at his sister. “Yes. God set aside a day after creation to rest.” “But why?” Spencer asked. “God didn’t really need to rest after making the world, did He?” “No, but He knows we need to rest, so He set an example for us to follow. Jesus also showed us the importance of rest. He took breaks from teaching to rest and spend time with God, and once He even took a nap on a boat during a storm. When we take time to rest, it helps us remember to trust Him instead of relying on ourselves. We can rest knowing that He saved us by dying on the cross and promises to take care of us.” Spencer tucked his paddle next to his leg. “I guess that makes sense. Okay, we can rest for a little while.” “Oh, and there’s one other reason I wanted to take a break from paddling.” Lilia smiled slyly. “Look up.” Spencer looked up and gasped at the beautiful trees along the river. They arched along the riverbank and made a bright tunnel of autumn colors for the canoe to float through. “When we rest, it’s easier to appreciate the beauty of God’s creation,” said Lilia. “We might have missed this spot if we were focused on paddling.” Spencer just nodded, not able to take his eyes off the beautiful trees all around him. –Naomi Zylstra How about you? Have you ever been told to take a break even when you didn’t want to? Or maybe bedtime came around but you weren’t tired yet. Rest is important, even when we don’t feel like we need it. We often think we should keep going without a break, but Jesus tells us to rest because it helps us learn to trust Him and enjoy His blessings around us. Schedule rest into your daily life so you can be refreshed body, mind, and soul. Today’s key verse: [Jesus] said to them, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” Mark 6:31 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Rest in Jesus
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  Keep the Light On 21.09.2026 4m

  Read: Psalm 119:102-105 Jalen finished his Bible reading, then checked off the corresponding reference on his sheet. “There!” he said. “I’m all done with this week’s youth group challenge. We had to read a different passage from the Bible every day this week.” “That’s great,” said Mom. “It’s always good when others encourage you to read the Bible every day. Now it will be easier for you to keep doing it on your own.” “Oh, I’m not planning to do that,” Jalen said. Mom raised her eyebrows. “You’re not?” Jalen shook his head. “I just did it to complete the challenge. I go to church and youth group every week, and we read and talk about the Bible there. I feel like that’s enough.” That evening, as Mom walked past Jalen’s room, she reached in and turned off the light. “Hey, Mom!” Jalen called out. “I’m in here!” “I know,” Mom said, returning to his door. “But you had the light on quite a while, so I figured you’d had enough and it was time to turn it off.” Jalen gave his mom a curious look as he reached for the switch. “But it’s way too dark with the light off. I’m working on my science project, and I need the light on so I can put my solar system model together.” “But couldn’t you do that with the light off?” Mom asked. “I mean, you know the rough size of each planet, right? Can’t you just feel around for them?” Jalen stared at her. “Well, I guess I could, but it wouldn’t turn out well!” Mom smiled. “It’d be a lot easier to do with the light on, wouldn’t it?” “Yeah!” “Well, God refers to His Word—the Bible—as light,” Mom said. “It shows us how much we need Jesus to save us and helps us see the path we’re walking with Him more clearly. Even though you get that light in church and youth group, it’s also good to spend time in God’s Word on your own. I think that’s why your youth group did that challenge in the first place—to help you get in the habit of shining God’s light on your life every day.” After a moment’s pause, Jalen nodded. “I guess that’s a light we always need to have on.” –Deborah S. Marett How about you? Do you spend time in God’s Word every day? It’s great to read and talk about the Bible with others at church, but it’s important to read it on your own too. That will help you learn more about Jesus and shine His light on your life every day. Get in the habit of taking a few minutes to read His Word each day, and ask God to use that time to speak to your heart. Today’s key verse: The teaching of your word gives light. Psalm 119:130 (NLT) Today’s key thought: Read God’s Word every day
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  Behind the Scenes 20.09.2026 4m

  Read: 1 Corinthians 3:5-9 Manuel rushed onto the stage, set some props in place, picked up some others, and rushed back off. He was the head prop person for the play the youth group was putting on at church. When the performance ended, Manuel finished what he had to do and picked up his jacket. He sighed loudly as he walked out of the auditorium and started down the church steps. Pastor Weber stopped him as he was coming up the stairs. “Congratulations on the fine job you did on the play!” he said. “But why the big sigh? Are you tired?” “Yeah, I guess so,” Manuel said. “Tired and discouraged about…about some other stuff.” “I’m sorry to hear that,” said the pastor. “Care to talk about it?” Manuel shrugged, but then he decided to share his problem. “It’s my dad,” he said. “Mom and I are saved, but Dad isn’t. I don’t want him to be…” Manuel hesitated. “To be lost for all eternity,” he finished in a trembling voice. “Mom and I have prayed and prayed for Dad, and I know you and the people here at church have too, but it hasn’t done any good. We keep trying to help him understand that Jesus loves him and died for him, but he’s still the same.” “Wait a minute, Manuel,” said Pastor Weber. “How do you know our prayers haven’t done any good? How do you know your dad is the same?” Manuel was surprised. “I sure don’t see any change,” he said. “But you can’t see inside his heart, Manuel,” Pastor Weber reminded him. “It’s a little like the play you just put on. The audience couldn’t see all the behind-the-scenes work that took place to make it a success.” Manuel remembered all the rehearsals and rushing around to set the stage while the curtain was closed. “God often does a lot of behind-the-scenes work too,” Pastor Weber continued. “Our prayers and our testimony of what Jesus has done for us are part of the unseen things that will bring final results.” Manuel nodded. “So we have to keep at it, don’t we?” “Yep,” Pastor Weber said. “Keep at it and trust God to change your dad’s heart.” –A. W. Smith How about you? Are you discouraged because you haven’t seen answers to your prayers? Have you told someone about Jesus, but it hasn’t seemed to make any difference? Don’t quit. You don’t know what God has been doing in that person’s heart. It could take a very long time for them to come to Jesus, but keep praying and showing them His love. Trust God with the results. Today’s key verse: I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6 (NLT) Today’s key thought: God is working, so keep praying
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  Domino Effect 19.09.2026 4m

  Read: Colossians 3:1, 8-11 Dominoes wound their way through a large room in the basement. “Wow! You have quite a domino network here,” said Amelia’s mother as she came down the stairs. She carefully picked her way to where Amelia was and dropped to the floor beside her. “How did your speech go—the one you did with Ellen in history class?” “Fine,” said Amelia. “I did really well.” “And how about math? You said you’ve been doing your homework every night. Is that going better now?” “It’s going great, Mom.” Irritated, Amelia frowned. “Why all the questions?” As she spoke, her cat Penelope ran down the stairs. Before Amelia could grab her, the cat bumped a domino. One after another, they all fell. Amelia watched as her domino design collapsed all the way through the room, then glared at Penelope. Mom cocked her head thoughtfully. “Interesting how, when one domino is tipped, it bumps the next one, isn’t it, Amelia? They all affect one another, and before you can stop them, they all fall. Lies are like that. One lie often leads to another, and each lie not only affects the liar, but often someone else too.” Amelia sighed. “I hope it’s easier to fix lies than domino networks.” “Do you have lies that need fixing?” asked Mom. “I, um…yeah, I do. I didn’t do my math homework, Mom. I’m having trouble with fractions. And speaking in front of people makes my stomach hurt, so I didn’t give my speech. I skipped class, and Ellen is really mad at me. I guess I kind of knocked down some dominoes, huh?” “Yes, you did,” Mom said. “Lying only leads to more lies and hurt, which is why the Bible says it has no place in our lives as Christians. Jesus has given us new life as God’s children, and our words should reflect His truth and love.” Amelia nodded. “I’ll tell Ellen I’m sorry.” “Good.” Mom smiled. “By the way, your math teacher said she’d help you after school tomorrow, and your history teacher said you and Ellen can give the speech on Friday.” Amelia’s mouth fell open. “You knew?” Mom laughed. “I do have a phone! Clean up the mess down here, then come upstairs and call Ellen.” “Okay,” said Amelia. “I’ll be there in a minute.” –Danika Cooley How about you? Can you think of a lie you’ve told? When you lie to try to stay out of trouble, you just create a bigger mess. If you’re a Christian, God says to “take off your old self” so you can live the new life Jesus has given you—and lying is included in the list of things to get rid of. When you make a mistake and do something wrong, be honest and apologize—and ask Jesus to forgive you too. Today’s key verse: Do not lie to one another. Colossians 3:9 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: Tell the truth
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  Losing Sleep 18.09.2026 4m

  Read: Matthew 6:31-34 “You look tired,” Mom said when Dylan came into the kitchen for breakfast one morning. He sighed as he sat down for a bowl of cereal. “I am tired. I couldn’t sleep.” “Why not?” Mom carried a glass of orange juice over to him. Dylan thanked her for the juice, then shrugged. Mom pulled out the chair beside him. “Were you thinking about Grandpa?” “Sort of,” Dylan admitted. “It’s hard knowing he’s in the hospital and facing some health issues,” Mom said. “But we need to keep praying that he’ll be okay.” “I tried, but I still couldn’t sleep.” Dylan stirred his cereal around in his bowl. Mom put a hand on his arm. “Sometimes our worries are strong and it feels almost impossible to get over them,” she said. “But God is stronger.” Mom got up and grabbed her phone from the counter. She tapped on the screen a few times before stepping back over to Dylan. “Matthew chapter six talks about worry. It tells us not to worry about tomorrow.” Mom showed him the phone and pointed out the verse. “It’s not always easy to let go of our worries, especially when we’re concerned about someone we love,” she said. “But God is big enough and strong enough to take care of anything. He sent His own Son to save us when we were lost in sin, and He promises to always be with us and take care of us. It doesn’t do any good to worry and lose sleep—it’s much better to trust everything to Him.” Dylan nodded as he glanced at the verse again. “Do you think we could visit Grandpa today?” “I think he’d like that,” said Mom. “And I know he’d tell you the same thing I did. He appreciates your concern and prayers, but he doesn’t want you to worry.” “Yeah, I don’t think Grandpa ever worries about anything,” Dylan said as he finally dug into his cereal. Mom smiled. “It doesn’t seem like it, does it?” she said. “If only we could all learn to be like that.” –Bethany Acker How about you? Are you worried about something? Maybe a loved one is sick or you’re facing another difficult situation and don’t know how it will turn out. Maybe you’ve been so worried that you’ve even lost sleep because of it. Instead of worrying, God wants you to trust Him to take care of things. Worrying won’t change anything, but God is in control of everything, and He loves you and promises to take care of you. You don’t have to worry. Today’s key verse: Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own. Matthew 6:34 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Don’t worry
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  The Very Best News 17.09.2026 4m

  Read: Psalm 40:9-10 Tyler jumped off the school bus and ran home. He burst into the kitchen. “Mom! Mom! Guess what?” He ran through the house until he found his mom. “I won the spelling bee! I did it!” His eyes shone as he held out a big blue ribbon for her to see. Mom gasped and gave him a hug. “That’s wonderful, Ty!” Tyler nodded. “Now I get to compete in the regionals next month! I’ve got to text Jack and tell him.” He picked up his tablet to send a message to his best friend, who had moved away a few months earlier. “What did Jack say?” Mom asked a while later. “He thought it was great,” said Tyler. He sighed. “I wish we still went to the same school.” “I know,” said Mom. She picked up Tyler’s ribbon and looked at it thoughtfully. “A lot has happened since he moved away, hasn’t it? We weren’t even going to church back then, but now we know Jesus.” She smiled at Tyler. “I can understand why you wanted to tell Jack about winning the spelling bee right away. It’s always fun to share good news, and that’s certainly good news. But you have even better news than that. Have you shared it with Jack?” “Better news?” Tyler asked. Mom nodded. “The best news of all, in fact—about how Jesus died for us and rose again so we could be saved and have a new life with Him.” “Oh, right.” Tyler sat down on the couch and sighed. “I’m a little afraid to come right out and tell him,” he admitted, “but I do want Jack to know Jesus too.” He got up and picked up his tablet. “I’m going to do it right now. I’m going to tell him I’ve got the best news of all!” He paused. “Can I invite him to spend the weekend with us?” he asked eagerly. “I think his mom will let him come. Then he could come to church with us and learn more about Jesus. Would that be okay?” Mom smiled. “Of course!” –Beth R. Terpstra How about you? Have you shared good news with someone lately about something exciting that happened? What about the very best news of all—that Jesus died and rose from the dead so we could be saved? Have you told anyone about that? Share the good news of Jesus with others so they can know Him too! (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News?) Today’s key verse: I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes. Romans 1:16 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Share God’s good news
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  Kindness to Critters 16.09.2026 4m

  Read: Psalm 145:8-21; Luke 6:31 Maylie stroked Chester’s long orange fur. Her cat purred loudly. “Sir Chester Chatterson, would you like a morsel of cake?” Maylie placed a cat treat on a plate and poured water into a teacup for Chester. Mom walked by as Chester lapped water out of the cup. “He let you put that top hat on him?” She laughed. “Just remember to let him leave when he’s had enough tea party time.” After Chester wandered off, Maylie spotted Miss Priss grooming herself in the sunshine. Miss Priss was an older cat and didn’t like to be bothered. Maybe just this one time she won’t mind, Maylie thought. Miss Priss gave a warning growl when Maylie picked her up. At first, a few treats seemed to appease the calico, but when Maylie tried to pull a doll’s dress over her head, Miss Priss had quite enough! Hisssss! Scratch! Maylie looked at her arm and began to cry. Mom darted into the room and untangled Miss Priss from the lace dress before attending to Maylie’s scratch. “Maylie, you know better than to bother Miss Priss!” “She’s a mean cat!” Maylie sobbed. “No, she’s just protecting herself. What you did to her was not kind. Do you remember the Bible verse we’ve been working on?” Maylie stopped sniffling to recite it. “‘Do to others as you would have them do to you.’” “Good job! Jesus wants us to care about other people’s feelings and needs the way He cares about ours. When we treat people with kindness, we’re showing them the kind of love He showed us when He gave His life to save us. Even the way we care for animals and their needs shows His love in us, because He cares for everything He created.” Mom finished bandaging Maylie’s arm. “Now, what did Miss Priss need?” “To be left alone. But Mom, Chester doesn’t mind when I dress him up!” “Chester is a younger cat with a different temperament than Miss Priss. Not everyone likes the same thing. Remember when one of your friends tried to force you to put face paint on at her birthday party?” Maylie’s eyes widened. “I do not like stuff on my face!” She walked over to the calico and gently pet her head. “I’m sorry, Prissy. You look better in calico than lace anyhow.” –Savannah Coleman How about you? Do you ever struggle with being kind to animals? Or maybe you want to love them so much that you don’t give them the space they need. While animals aren’t created in God’s image like people are, the Bible says God cares about all His creation, down to the smallest of sparrows (Matthew 10:29). As we show Jesus’s love to other people, we can also display His love in the way we treat animals. How can you care for a critter today? Today’s key verse: The righteous care for the needs of their animals, but the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel. Proverbs 12:10 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Being kind to critters matters to God
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  Fearless 15.09.2026 4m

  Read: Isaiah 41:8-10 Zoe couldn’t wait to go on her youth group trip to the state park, where there would be camping, hiking, swimming, and bonfires. She packed her duffle bag and was about to zip it up when her mother walked in. “Aren’t you going to pack your Bible?” Mom asked, pointing to the dust-laden book on Zoe’s nightstand. “You might want it.” Zoe reluctantly put it in her bag. “We’re going to be talking about the Bible the whole time! Why do I need it with me?” But her mother just smiled and left. On the first day of her trip, Zoe was finishing her lunch when the head counselor made an announcement. “In twenty minutes, there will be a game of capture the flag. Afterward we’ll have ice cream—and the winning side gets first dibs on toppings!” The group cheered as teams were chosen. Zoe’s team decided that she and a few others would search for the other team’s flag. Once the whistle blew, Zoe raced through the woods to the other side of camp. When she saw an enemy team member coming toward her, she veered off the path and ran in what she thought was the right direction. Ten minutes later, it proved her wrong. She was lost! Sitting on a fallen tree, she tried to think of how to get back to camp, but it was hopeless. So she prayed about it, desperately asking God to help her find her way back. Then one of the Bible verses they’d talked about earlier that day popped into her head. Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Zoe thought about what her counselor had said—that God loved her so much He’d sent Jesus to die for her so she could be His child. It gave her peace knowing He was with her. Just then Ezra, a boy from her team, appeared from behind a tree. “Are you lost?” he asked. “I’ll show you the way back to camp.” Zoe thanked him, and they made their way back. That night, as she opened her Bible, Zoe silently thanked God for being with her and for calming her fears with the truth of His Word. –Norah Varner How about you? Have you ever been in a situation where you felt lost or afraid? We can always find peace by remembering the truth God gives us in His Word. So don’t let your Bible get covered with dust! Even in the darkest moments, we can be assured that God loves us and is with us. When you read the Bible and memorize verses, such as today’s key verse, the truth of God’s Word can help you feel His peace. Today’s key verse: Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. Isaiah 41:10 (NIV) Today’s key thought: God’s Word brings peace
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  Thrown by Waves 14.09.2026 4m

  Read: James 1:5-8 Minha sat on the beach watching the waves crash into the shore. It was a windy day, and the waves were huge. Minha had a lot on her mind, and watching the water calmed her. Mom came and sat next to her. After a while of sitting in silence, Mom finally asked, “How are you doing?” “I’m just so scared of making the wrong decision,” Minha said as she fought back tears. Minha and her mom had just come from the doctor, who had told them Minha’s test showed that she had cancer, and he had given them different options for treating it. Mom put her arm around Minha. “Well, this is a huge decision, but we need to pray that God will give us wisdom and guide us in making the right choice.” “But, Mom, all the treatment options could make me even sicker. How can we be sure God will help us make the right decision?” The two sat in silence for a little while, watching the water. They watched as a big stick was thrown from one wave to another. Then a big wave heaved the piece of wood onto the shore, and it finally became still. “Minha, we are definitely going through a struggle right now,” Mom said. “We can either let our emotions get the best of us and throw us around like the waves did that stick, or we can trust God to see us through this. It’s not going to be easy, but we have to remember that Jesus will be with us as we make these tough decisions—and He’s put doctors and other people in our lives who can help guide us in making wise choices. That doesn’t mean everything will go the way we want it to, but we need to remember that God is in control and will work everything out for good, no matter what decision we make. Jesus saved us, and He’ll always be with us, no matter what happens. It may be scary, but we can trust Him.” Minha watched the water for a long time, thinking about what her mom had said. She then said a silent prayer asking God for wisdom and guidance as she and her family made the choices they needed to make. –Melissa Yeagle How about you? Are you going through a hard time right now? Do you have some tough decisions to make? Perhaps you’re dealing with something difficult in your family, at school, or with your health. No matter what it is, remember that Jesus saved you and will work everything out for good, even if things don’t go the way you hoped. Trust Him to be with you and guide you in whatever it is you’re facing. Today’s key verse: We know that all things work together for the good of those who love God. Romans 8:28 (CSB) Today’s key thought: Trust Jesus with tough choices
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  Too Heavy to Carry 13.09.2026 4m

  Read: Psalm 38:1-4 Grounded and bored, Mia slouched in the chair as she watched her baby sister play. Little Riley, growing tired of her blocks, made her way to Mia’s backpack that leaned heavily against the brick hearth. Riley picked up the straps and tried to lift the weight of Mia’s bag—an impossible feat, since Riley was barely able to walk on her own. As Riley began to cry in frustration, Mia knelt down to help. Removing the books from her bag, Mia thought her sister would be relieved, but instead she grew angry. She cried harder and tried to return the books to their place. Irritated with her sister, Mia huffed. “You can’t lift it, Riley!” She pulled the bag away, only to be met with an all-out tantrum from Riley. Mom rushed into the room. “What is it now, Mia?” “Why is it my fault?” Mia asked. “I was trying to help.” Mom gathered up Riley in her arms. Once Riley was calm, Mia spoke up. “I don’t want to cause trouble, Mom, but I do. Even when I’m trying to help I end up in trouble.” Mom sat Riley back down to play and turned to look at Mia. “Sometimes I put blame on you when I shouldn’t, Mia, and I’m sorry. I mess up too.” Mia sighed. “I just want to be good enough so you and Jesus and everyone else will be happy with me, but I don’t know how to make that happen.” “Oh, Mia,” Mom said. “Every time you try to be good enough on your own, you’re trying to lift a burden you can never carry.” Mia looked down at her backpack and imagined herself as a baby trying to lift it. “Like Riley trying to lift a bag full of books?” she asked. Mom nodded. “When you trusted Jesus to save you, He made you good in God’s eyes by giving you His righteousness, or goodness. You don’t have to try to be good enough. Instead, the good we do comes from a place of knowing that He loves us just as we are and gives us all we need to show His love to others. Because of Him, you’re always good enough.” –Maggie J. Sifuentes How about you? Do you ever feel like you can never be good enough? Does trying to do everything right feel like a burden you can’t carry? Let Jesus carry the weight for you. When you trust in Him, He gives you His goodness in exchange for your sin. As you rest in His love and depend on Him to help you show it to others, your efforts to help and serve will be a joy, not a burden. (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News?) Today’s key verse: Then Jesus said, “Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28 (NLT) Today’s key thought: Jesus makes you good enough
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  A Heart Full of Weeds 12.09.2026 4m

  Read: Colossians 3:12-17 Jacob stepped off the bus and walked toward Dad. “How was your day?” Dad asked as they began walking home. Jacob shrugged. “It was all right,” he said quietly. “Something wrong?” asked Dad. Jacob kicked at a rock on the sidewalk. He was embarrassed to talk about what had happened, but he knew he could trust Dad. “That older kid pushed me around again. He’s picked me to bully instead of the other kids.” “What did you do?” asked Dad as they turned a corner and walked down the gravel road toward their house. “Yelled a lot, but that didn’t do much,” answered Jacob. “I want to get back at him for embarrassing me in front of my friends.” As they approached their driveway, Dad pointed to the field next door. “Jacob, do you see how nobody cares for that field? Weeds have taken over because nobody has done anything to prevent them from growing where the grass should grow.” “Yeah, I never want to play over there because the weeds get in the way.” “Well, weeds and revenge are kind of similar,” said Dad. “Wanting to get revenge on someone is a sign that bitter weeds are growing in your heart. And when you’re filled with bitterness, it keeps you from being able to forgive.” “But I don’t want to forgive him,” Jacob said, clenching his fists. “I want him to pay for what he did!” “Did Jesus make you pay for all the bad things you’ve done?” Dad asked. “He paid for all your sins by dying on the cross and forgave you for them, and He wants you to forgive others. It’s not easy, but He’ll help you. He can get rid of the nasty weeds of bitterness growing in your heart.” Dad put his hand on Jacob’s shoulder. “I’ll talk to someone at the school about the kid who’s been bothering you. But don’t let anger and bitterness take over and keep you from forgiving him. Ask Jesus to clear away the weeds in your heart so you can forgive others the way He’s forgiven you.” Jacob knew Dad was right. As hard as it would be to forgive this bully, he didn’t want a heart full of weeds. –Emily Saxe How about you? Have you been bullied? Have you forgiven that person, or are you still angry? Jesus died on the cross so you could be forgiven for every one of your sins, and He will give you that same power so you can forgive others. Forgiving means putting the wrong that person did in God’s hands and depending on Him to help you love them instead. Who can you forgive today? Today’s key verse: And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. Ephesians 4:32 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: Forgive others If someone is bullying you, tell a trusted adult so they can help.
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  World at War 11.09.2026 4m

  Read: Luke 21:9-19 Caden was lying on his bed with his head propped on his hands and a worried look on his face when his mom stopped at his door. “How was school, Caden?” she asked. “Did something happen?” “Not really.” Caden hesitated. “We did have a discussion in social studies, though. One of the kids started talking about nuclear war and how the whole world is going to blow up and end soon. And it sounded like Mr. Morgan agreed with him.” “He said that?” Mom asked. “No. But it kinda seemed like he thought so. He said if everyone just stopped making nuclear weapons, the world would be at peace and no one would fight.” “That sounds nice, but I’m afraid it’s not going to happen,” said Mom. “There were many, many wars long before we had nuclear weapons. People and nations want to be powerful and will often do anything to gain that power. It’s unrealistic to think they’ll all suddenly decide to stop fighting.” “I guess so,” Caden said. “But thinking about it makes me feel scared. We talk about war at school, and it’s always on the news. It seems like we never stop hearing about scary things.” He paused. “Aren’t you afraid, Mom?” Mom sighed. “This world is a messed-up place because of sin, Caden, and people do terrible things. But when I hear scary stories about violence in the world, I thank God that my future is in His hands. He’s in control of this world, and nothing happens unless He allows it to happen. We also know He loves and cares for us as His children. When we feel afraid because of what’s going on in the world, we need to remember that Jesus, God’s Son, died and rose again to rescue us from sin and evil. No matter what happens, He will always be with us.” “I know,” Caden said. “I just wish things were different.” “Me too,” said Mom. “But remember that things won’t be like this forever. One day, when Jesus returns, He will get rid of sin, evil, and death in this world once and for all. Until then, we can have peace knowing He’s in control and is always with us.” –Lenora McWhorten How about you? Are you afraid when you hear stories about war? Perhaps you’ve experienced terrible things like that firsthand. This world is a scary place, but if you trust Jesus as your Savior, you don’t have to be full of fear. Your future is in His hands. Trust Him to be with you through all the scary things you face in this world, and look forward to the day when He’ll end war and violence forever. Today’s key verse: Don’t let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me [Jesus]. John 14:1 (NLT) Today’s key thought: Don’t be afraid—trust Jesus
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  The Spoiled Jam 10.09.2026 4m

  Read: 1 Samuel 16:7; Romans 3:23 Isabella’s tummy grumbled as she grabbed the peanut butter from the pantry and the new jar of strawberry jam from the refrigerator. Mom laid bread out on two plates and handed her a butter knife. “I’m so hungry, I could eat a rhinoceros!” said Isabella, unscrewing the lid from the jam jar. She started to stick her knife deep into the middle, then stopped. “Mom!” she cried. “Something’s wrong with this jam! It’s fuzzy and green in the middle.” Mom took the jar and looked closer. “You’re right, honey. It’s bad.” “But isn’t that the new jar you bought yesterday?” Isabella asked. “Yes,” Mom said, looking the jar over carefully. “But I couldn’t tell from the outside that anything was wrong.” Isabella looked at the jar too. From the outside, the jam looked fine. “You know what this makes me think of?” asked Mom. Isabella shook her head, disappointed she wasn’t going to get any jam on her peanut butter sandwich. “This jar of jam is just like our hearts without Jesus.” Mom turned the jar slowly. “Everything looks fine on the outside, but when we look inside, the moldy decay of sin is eating away at us.” Mom peered at the moldy jam inside the jar. “God sees inside our hearts and knows about the sin that hides there. That’s why He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for us. When we trust in Him, His blood covers our sins and our hearts are made new.” Mom replaced the lid and screwed it down tight. “I’ll have to take this moldy jar of jam back to the store and exchange it for a new one. And when we put our faith in Jesus, God exchanges our moldy, sinful heart for a new one.” Isabella thought about how she’d shoved her toys under her bed that morning and then lied when mom asked if she’d put them away. She imagined that lie growing like the green fuzz in the jar and knew she had sin in her heart. “Mom, can I pray and ask Jesus to exchange my heart for a new one? I—I’ve never done that before.” Mom smiled. “You bet! And we don’t even have to drive to the store to do it!” –Kelly Hollman How about you? Do you think you’re a good person? Do you try to do what’s right, like obey your parents and be loving and kind to others? Even if you try your hardest, without Jesus, your heart is like that moldy jar of jam. We all have sin in our hearts, and only Jesus can take it away. Put your faith in Him and He will give you a new, clean heart. (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News?) Today’s key verse: If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: Jesus cleanses us from sin
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  Perfect Father 09.09.2026 4m

  Read: Mark 10:13-16 “Is something wrong with the macaroni, buddy?” Graham’s mom asked as she watched her son push the pasta from one side of his plate to the other. Graham looked at his uneaten dinner. “No, it’s fine. I’m just not hungry tonight. May I be excused?” “I guess so,” Mom said quietly. Graham headed to his bedroom. He sank into his bed and stared at the ceiling. He didn’t want to tell his mom how he felt. It might make her sad again. His thoughts shifted to his best friend, Gideon, but were interrupted by a knock at his door. “May I come in, honey?” asked Mom. “Yes,” Graham replied with a sigh. Mom opened the door. “I was washing the dishes and couldn’t stop wondering if something was wrong.” Graham hesitated. “Well, uh, tomorrow is the father and son fishing trip at church.” Tears filled his eyes as he continued. “Gideon and his dad are going. Mom, I just miss Dad so much.” Mom walked to the bed and wrapped Graham in her arms. There had been such a hole in their family since Graham’s dad left, never even saying goodbye. “I know, my sweet boy.” Tears trickled down both of their cheeks. The world seemed to stand still for a few moments. “Graham, remember when you asked Jesus to be your Savior a year ago?” Mom asked. Graham nodded. “You became a child of God that special day,” Mom said. “And God is the perfect Father. He will never walk away or leave you. When you’re sad or lonely, you can talk to your heavenly Father.” Graham wiped his cheeks. “Can we talk to Him now?” “Of course we can,” Mom answered. Mother and son bowed their heads together and spent time talking to God. “Thanks, Mom. I feel a lot better now,” Graham said when they finished praying. Mom smiled. “Do you feel better enough to have some ooey-gooey chocolate cake? If you’re still not hungry, I can just eat it myself,” she teased. “I think I can force some down,” Graham said with a smirk. –Monica Faith Vernot How about you? Has someone ever disappointed you? Have you experienced the separation of a friend, a family member, or even a parent? We live in a sinful world, and no one is perfect. Each of us makes mistakes, and those mistakes often hurt others around us. God wants to hear how we feel. You can tell Him your thoughts, your feelings, and your struggles. He is the perfect Father who will never leave you and will always listen. Today’s key verse: Behold what manner of love the Father has bestowed on us, that we should be called children of God! 1 John 3:1 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: God loves His children so much
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  Be Yourself 08.09.2026 4m

  Read: Psalm 139:13-18; Ephesians 2:10 Ava walked into her new classroom feeling nervous yet excited. She had lived her whole life in a little town in Taiwan, but was now starting a new adventure in the big city of Taipei. After everyone scrambled to their seats, the teacher had the students introduce themselves and helped them choose their class leaders. Ava was a class leader at her previous school, and she hoped to be selected again. However, to her disappointment, her more outspoken classmates got the most votes. During music class, Ava listened as some students took turns playing the piano. Everyone clapped when they finished. My family can’t afford piano lessons for me, Ava thought enviously. It’s not fair. In art class, some of Ava’s classmates drew beautiful pictures. I wish I could draw like them, she thought. In PE, everyone cheered for the athletic students. Bitterness grew inside Ava. I’m never good at sports. I wish people would cheer for me. Maybe I should try to be like them. “Dad, why are all my classmates good at something and I’m not?” Ava burst out after dinner that night. “Did God forget to give me any talent?” “Oh, sweetheart, God didn’t forget you,” Dad reassured her. “He loves you. He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for you—that’s how precious you are to Him! You are His amazing work, so you don’t need to compare yourself to others.” “But I get so mad when I see everyone else doing things I can’t,” Ava said. “God gives each of us different abilities, and He wants us to praise Him when we’re able to enjoy other people’s talents—not feel jealous and bitter,” Dad replied. “Thank Him for the things others can do, and trust Him to use the gifts He’s given you—whatever they are—to help others and point them to Jesus.” “Thanks, Dad,” Ava replied. She took the words with her to bed, feeling renewed. The next day Cherry, one of Ava’s classmates, said, “Hey, Ava, you’re good at math. I’m really struggling. Can you help me?” Ava was stunned. “Really? I guess I’ve always understood math, but never really thought about it. I’d love to help!” As Ava took out her math book, she knew she didn’t have to be like anyone else. She was content being herself. –Hua-Hsin Tsai How about you? Do you compare yourself to other people? Do you wish you had the talents, looks, friends, or things other people do? Don’t forget whose you are. God created you, and He loves you so much He sent His Son to die for you. When you’re tempted to change to be like others, remember you’re the work of His hands. Be content in Jesus and who He created you to be. Today’s key verse: We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand. Isaiah 64:8 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Be the way God created you
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  Busy as a Bee 07.09.2026 4m

  Read: Colossians 3:16-24 Cesar kept his distance as his dad lifted the cover from a beehive. “There sure are lots of bees, aren’t there, Dad? And they all look busy.” He grinned. “They’re as busy as bees!” Dad smiled. “You’re right. Each of the hives has lots of them—thousands, in fact. But there’s always just one queen bee in each hive.” “What does she do?” asked Cesar. “Rule the others?” “Well, she’s the mother of the bees,” Dad said. “And you know how busy mothers are! But all the other bees have a particular job to do too. The forager bees collect the food. The guard bees protect the hive from intruders. There are water collectors who regulate the humidity, and plasterers who repair the hives. The scout bees alert the others of opportunities and dangers in the outside world, and there are undertakers that remove dead bees from the hive.” “Wow!” said Cesar. “I never knew that.” “They’re like a family,” said Dad. “In a well-run family, each person has special duties. Everyone needs to do their job to keep things running smoothly for the good of the hive.” He glanced at Cesar. “It works that way in human families too.” Cesar sighed. He’d gotten in trouble the day before for going to a friend’s house when he was supposed to be raking leaves. “I know it’s not easy to accept responsibility and do your work when you’d rather be doing something else,” said Dad. “That’s why the Bible reminds us that we’re not working for ourselves—we’re working for Jesus. Because we trust in Him, we’re part of His family, and He uses the work we do to benefit others—even tasks that don’t seem all that important to us.” Cesar looked at the buzzing bees. “Kind of like how all the bees’ work helps the whole hive?” “Exactly!” Dad said. “And He uses it to help us too. The work He gives us through parents and teachers helps us learn to be responsible and think of others, and it helps prepare us for more things He wants us to do in the future.” Dad rumpled Cesar’s hair. “Can I count on you to be responsible the next time you’re given a task?” Cesar grinned and nodded. “I’ll be as busy as a bee!” –Helen C. Eshleman How about you? Do you accept responsibility when you’re given a task? Or do you complain and put it off for as long as you can? If you trust in Jesus, you’re part of His family, and He uses the work you do to show others His love—even things that seem small or tedious. Trust Him to help you do your work willingly. He’ll use it for the good of the whole hive of bee-lievers! Today’s key verse: For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) Today’s key thought: Accept responsibility
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  The Mother Hen 06.09.2026 4m

  Read: Psalm 91:1-6 Grandma looked up from making breakfast when Noah came into to the kitchen. “You look tired,” she said. Noah yawned. “I was up a lot last night because of the storm.” “It sure was noisy!” Grandma remarked as she began mixing pancake batter. “I was up some myself.” “Did Grandpa go to the barn?” Noah asked. Grandma nodded, and Noah put on his rubber boots and went outside. He found Grandpa milking the cow. “Good morning, Noah! You look like you could use some more sleep,” Grandpa said. “Did the storm keep you awake last night?” “Yeah, but I’ll be fine. What can I do to help?” “You can feed the goats,” Grandpa answered. When the feeding and milking was done, they both went to gather the eggs. “Hey, Noah, do you see that chicken?” Grandpa asked. Noah looked at the chicken Grandpa was pointing at and gasped. “What happened? That hen is missing a bunch of feathers, and she’s all scraped up and bruised!” “Last night this hen’s chicks were bedded down in some tall grass outside,” Grandpa explained. “When the storm came, they were too afraid to move. Now just think, this hen could have gone into the coop and been warm and dry. However, she stayed outside in the bad weather with her wings covering her little ones to protect them. If she hadn’t done that, her chicks wouldn’t have survived!” Noah listened wide-eyed. “Wow! She really cares for her chicks, doesn’t she?” Grandpa nodded. “Did you know that God feels the same way about us? This chicken was willing to die to save her chicks, and God sent His one and only Son, Jesus, to die for us so we could be saved from sin and have eternal life with Him. The Bible even describes God stretching His wings over us, the same way a mother hen protects her chicks.” “That’s a lot of protection!” said Noah. “It sure is! And I’m thankful for every bit of it,” said Grandpa. “Me too!” Noah grinned. “Do you know what else I’m thankful for?” “What’s that?” asked Grandpa. “Grandma’s cooking. I hope we can have breakfast soon. I’m starving!” Grandpa laughed. “Me too! Let’s go see if it’s ready.” –Elena Ketner How about you? Did you know that God protects His children like a mother hen covering her chicks? Those who trust in Jesus take refuge under His wings. If you belong to Jesus, nothing can ever separate you from Him—no matter what life storms come your way. Jesus was willing to die to save you, and He will never leave you. (To learn more, go to Have You Heard the Good News?) Today’s key verse: He shall cover you with His feathers, and under His wings you shall take refuge. Psalm 91:4 (NKJV) Today’s key thought: God protects His children