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

Keys for Kids - daily devotions and Bible stories for kids

Religion & Spirituality Podcas

Keys for Kids is a daily storytelling show based on the Keys for Kids children's devotional. Hosted by Zach, this podcast combines Scripture readings with captivating stories that illustrate essential Biblical principles. With Zach's creative voices bringing characters to life, listeners embark on a faith-filled journey. Tune in to discover the keys to growing in faith and understanding God's love. Produced by Keys for Kids Ministries, this podcast is a treasure trove to help young hearts grow closer to God.

Location:

Pasco, WA

Description:

Keys for Kids is a daily storytelling show based on the Keys for Kids children's devotional. Hosted by Zach, this podcast combines Scripture readings with captivating stories that illustrate essential Biblical principles. With Zach's creative voices bringing characters to life, listeners embark on a faith-filled journey. Tune in to discover the keys to growing in faith and understanding God's love. Produced by Keys for Kids Ministries, this podcast is a treasure trove to help young hearts grow closer to God.

Language:

English

Contact:

Keys for Kids Ministries 2060 43rd St SE Grand Rapids, MI 49508 (616) 647-4500


Episodes
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Redemption Policy

11/8/2024
Bible Reading: Galatians 3:11-13; 4:4-7 "Mom, what does 'redeem' mean?" asked Brock. "Redeem?" repeated Mom. "It means to buy back. Why?" Brock pointed to a coupon in a paper. "This coupon for popsicles says it will be 'redeemed in accordance with company policy.' Does that mean somebody will buy the coupon back?" Mom nodded. "An ice cream company put that coupon in the paper to get people to buy their popsicles. After the coupon is used at the store, the ice cream company will redeem it--they'll buy it back by giving the store the amount of money the customer saved with the coupon." Brock's sister Madeline looked at the coupon. "I'd rather have ice cream bars," she said. "Do you think they'd let us use the coupon for that?" "I don't think they'd allow that," Mom replied. "'Redeemed in accordance with company policy' means according to their redemption policy--their rules." She looked at the kids thoughtfully. "You know, the Bible talks about redemption too," she said. "You mean people way back in Bible times used coupons?" asked Madeline. Brock grinned. "I don't think so! I'm sure they didn't have coupons back then." Mom laughed. "No, but when Jesus died on the cross, He paid the price for us to be redeemed by God. Everyone has sinned and strayed away from God, but Jesus gave His life to buy us back." "So does that mean God has a redemption policy like this ice cream company does?" Brock asked, holding up the coupon. "Yes," Mom said. "And that means we have to be redeemed according to God's rules. God has a pretty simple redemption policy, but people often don't want to follow it. They want to make their own rules. Many people think they're not really so bad or that the good things they do will get them into heaven." "But that's not God's way of redeeming us, is it?" said Madeline. "No," said Mom. "God's redemption policy requires that we confess our sin and our need for Him to redeem us. We must believe that Jesus really did die to save us. We need to trust in Him as our Redeemer--our Savior." "I've done that!" Brock said. "Me too," said Madeline. She looked at her brother. "So we've both been redeemed!" – Lyndel F. Walker How About You? Have you taken advantage of God's redemption offer? Or are you trying to get to heaven according to your own plan? It doesn't work that way. You can only be redeemed and have eternal life with God in accordance with His redemption policy. Jesus paid the price of your redemption. Trust Him as your Redeemer today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) Today's Key Verse: In [Jesus] we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. (NKJV) (Colossians 1:14) Today's Key Thought: Trust Jesus and be redeemed

Duration:00:04:29

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The Greatest Weapon of All

11/7/2024
Bible Reading: Ephesians 6:17 Jadyn thrust his blue foam sword at his brother's arm and shouted, "Ha! I got you." Tyler smacked his green foam sword across Jadyn's leg and yelled back, "I hit your leg! You can't fight now." "I don't need two legs. I will fight you to the death!" Jadyn hopped on one foot and sliced his sword down, narrowly missing Tyler's hand. "Well, I will fight you until snack time!" Tyler swung his sword high in the air with both hands, his eyes wide with intensity. "Snack time!" Mom called from the front porch. The boys tossed their swords to the ground like paper airplanes taking a nose dive and scrambled to get to Mom first. "You boys having fun?" Mom sat on the front step as she handed out the snacks. Tyler took a large bite out of his apple, while Jadyn put an entire granola bar in his mouth and chewed like a squirrel saving nuts for winter. "We are the strongest boys on the block, and we have the best weapons!" Tyler said with apple juice running down his chin. "Yeah, we're good fighters," Jadyn mumbled through his mouth full of granola. "I believe it," Mom said. "But there's an even more powerful weapon than your blue and green swords. Do you know you can have the greatest weapon of all time?" The boys' eyes bulged as they looked at each other in excitement. "Really? Where is it?" Tyler asked as he took another bite of his apple. "Well, Ephesians 6:17 says that we have the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God. There isn't anything more powerful in the world than the Word of God. That's why we memorize Bible verses--to keep our sharp swords ready for use." "I don't get it. How can words be swords?" Jadyn asked. "Remember when you were scared last week, and we read a verse about God's peace?" asked Mom. "You felt better after that. That's God's Word going to battle for you. It reminded you that you belong to Jesus and can have His peace in any situation." "Oh, I get it," said Tyler. "We'll be sharpening our God-swords when we do our devotions tonight!" He looked at his brother. "But now, we fight!" The boys laughed and ran to pick up their swords. – Tannis Oliveri How About You? Do you want to be strong and courageous? Do you want the best weapon to help you defeat the enemies in your life? Then take time to make sure God's Word is in your heart and mind. When you feel attacked, you'll be able to bring His Word to your situation. Let its truth speak God's power into your life as you read it, study it, and remember what it says. Today's Key Verse: For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword. (NKJV) (Hebrews 4:12) Today's Key Thought: Read and memorize God's Word

Duration:00:04:29

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A Flimsy Net

11/6/2024
Bible Reading: Matthew 6:25-34 Elliot looked out the kitchen window. It had rained all morning, but now the sun was shining brightly. The leaves on the big tree outside were golden and seemed to glow in the sunlight. If only those leaves could be turned into real gold, thought Elliot. Then Mom and I could solve all our problems. He sighed. He couldn't help worrying now that his mom had lost her job. Things had already been tight before--how would they manage now? Turning toward his mother, he asked, "What are we going to do about money, Mom?" "Don't you worry about that," said Mom. "I have a bit saved up, and I'm sure I'll find another job soon. There are lots of jobs available in the medical field." As Mom stood beside Elliot at the window, several sparrows swooped down and perched on the volleyball net someone had set up in the courtyard of their apartment building. Under the weight of the birds, the net sagged and swayed in the wind. Soon the thin, weak poles that supported the net became uprooted, and everything crashed to the ground. Elliot and Mom watched as the frightened birds flew away. "You know, Elliot," said Mom, "that flimsy net is like money and material things. When we count on them to hold us up in times of trouble, they always fail, just like that net failed those birds. Aren't you glad we can count on someone who never fails?" "You mean God, don't you?" said Elliot. "That's right," said Mom. "I'm thinking of a verse you learned at camp this summer--the one about birds. Do you remember it?" "About birds?" Elliot thought about it. "I think I remember. We learned Matthew 6:26, which says, 'Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?'" Mom nodded. "God takes care of the birds, and He'll provide for our needs too. Jesus has already provided for our biggest need of all by saving us from sin and giving us eternal life. Because of that, He is always with us, and we can trust Him to take care of us." Elliot smiled. "I'm glad He never fails." – Dorothy R. King How About You? Do you know someone who is out of work? Or maybe you're worried your own family might not have enough money for all the things you need. Pray about it, and trust God to provide. He loves you so much that He sent His own Son to die for your sins, and He cares more about you than you could ever imagine. You can trust Him to provide you with everything you need. Today's Key Verse: My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus. (NIV) (Philippians 4:19 ) Today's Key Thought: God provides all you need

Duration:00:04:29

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A Visit to the Capitol

11/5/2024
Bible Reading: Ephesians 2:14-18 "Okay, class, change of plans," called Miss Allen from the front of the bus. Ana could barely hear her because of the wind and rain beating against the bus windows. "Due to the storm, we're not going to be able to visit the zoo today after all. However, the state capitol is not far away, and they said they could fit us in for a last-minute tour, so we'll be going there instead." All the kids groaned except for Ana's friend Evelyn, who bounced up and down in the seat next to her. When they got to the capitol building, a tour guide greeted them at the door and led them down a long hallway decorated with gaudy statues. "This is boring," one of the boys complained. He tugged on the tour guide's sleeve. "Can we see the governor?" The tour guide shook his head. "As much as he would like to, the governor isn't able to visit with every school class that comes through. Thousands of kids visit the building each year." Just then several important-looking people emerged from the elevator. "That's the governor in the gray suit," the tour guide whispered. Suddenly Evelyn started running toward the group of people. "Uncle Mike!" she called out. The governor turned and held out his arms when he saw Evelyn to give her a hug, then he walked her back to her class, who were all staring at them open-mouthed. "My niece tells me your field trip to the zoo didn't work out," he said. "Maybe you kids would like to see my office instead?" That night Ana excitedly told her family about everything her class had seen at the capitol that day, thanks to Evelyn. "Like they say, it all depends on who you know," said her older brother. "True," said Dad. "Evelyn gave you access to the governor. She was your go-between." Ana smiled. "I know what you're going to say next, Dad. In our devotions this week, we talked about Jesus being our go-between--the mediator between us and God. Through Him we have access to our heavenly Father because Jesus paid the price for our sin and made us right with God." "I'm glad you were listening, Ana--and your trip to the capitol today is a perfect example." – Linda Weddle How About You? Have you ever gotten to meet someone well-known or go somewhere special because of who you know? Did you know that, because of Jesus, you can have access to God? You can't approach God on your own because of your sin, but Jesus died to take your sins away. Anyone who trusts in Him has full access to God. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) Today's Key Verse: For there is one God and one mediator between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus. (NIV) (1 Timothy 2:5) Today's Key Thought: Jesus is our mediator

Duration:00:04:29

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A Special Poem

11/4/2024
Bible Reading: Philippians 2:13-16 "Whenever I get home from school, all I want is food that's cool," chanted Marina, making up the rhyme as she opened the freezer and took out an ice cream bar. She grinned at her brother Archer. Archer rolled his eyes and made up a rhyme of his own. "I think your rhyme is kind of sad--your poetry is really bad." Marina laughed and went outside to where her mother was working in the garden. "Hello, Mother with a thumb that's green. You have the best vegetables I've seen." Mom smiled. "Still working on that poem you need for school?" "I'm trying, but all I can think of are silly things," said Marina. When Dad arrived home, Marina greeted him with another one of her rhymes. "Dad, your work day is finally done. Now it's time to have some fun!" "Oh, Marina, I think your poems are getting worse," said Archer. "How about this? Mom, that chicken pasta looks so yummy. I want to put it in my tummy!" Dad laughed and joined in. "My family's always such a delight. It's a joy to be with them each night." As he sat down at the table, he said, "Actually, I know of a very special poem. It's mentioned in the Bible--in Ephesians 2:10." "That was our verse at church last week!" exclaimed Marina. "It says, 'For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works.' But that doesn't rhyme like a poem, and it doesn't say anything about a poem." "The word handiwork comes from the Greek word poiema--that's the word we get our English word poem from," Dad explained. "So to say we are God's handiwork is like saying we are His poem." "I like that," said Marina with a grin. Dad smiled. "And just like a poem can bring joy to people through its words, you can bring joy to people through your good works--the good things you do for others that show them the love of Jesus. God created us to do these things and gave us the Holy Spirit to guide us in doing them. We are His poems that tell the story of the great things He has done for us." Marina's eyes lit up. "God is our Creator, and He made us for something greater!" – Lyndel F. Walker How About You? Do you have a favorite poem? If you're a Christian, remember that you are God's poem, created to love Him and bless others. God created you with unique gifts and passions, and He gave you the Holy Spirit to help you do the good things He calls you to do. When you love and help other people, you're pointing them toward your Author--Jesus Christ. Today's Key Verse: For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do. (NIV) (Ephesians 2:10) Today's Key Thought: Christians are God's poems

Duration:00:04:29

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Ready for Church

11/3/2024
Bible Reading: Psalm 57:7-11 "Let's get ready for church," said Dad. "We don't want to be late." "Dad says that every week," Amos told his sister, Maggie. "We should get ready early some Sunday, just to see if it's really Dad talking or if it's a recording that plays every week." Dad grinned and nodded. When they arrived at church, no other cars were there. "That's odd," said Mom. "I wonder what--" She stopped and pulled out her phone. "Oh no!" she exclaimed. "We're an hour early! Last spring we moved the clocks ahead an hour, and last night we were supposed to set them back again." They could hardly believe that no one had remembered to change the clocks around the house. "While we wait, let's get ready for church," suggested Dad. Maggie giggled. "It must be a recording after all, Amos. We woke up, ate breakfast, cleaned up, got dressed, and even came to church a whole hour early--but the recording is still going off!" Dad laughed with the rest of the family. "We prepared our bodies," he said, "but it would be good to prepare our hearts for worship too, and today we have time." "We can't feed our hearts breakfast," said Amos. "Sure we can. We can feed on God's Word for a few minutes." Dad opened his Bible and read a short passage aloud. "Okay, but we can't wash our hearts, can we?" asked Maggie when Dad finished reading. "Sure we can," said Dad. "We can search our hearts and confess sins to Jesus, and He'll cleanse us." "We can't dress our hearts though," said Amos. "Sure we can!" Maggie echoed Dad's words before he could say them. Then she looked at her parents. "But how?" "How about by praising God?" suggested Mom. "Singing praises to Him can help set our mood for worship. What should we sing?" Amos suggested a praise song, and Maggie wanted an old hymn she liked, so the family sang them both. "Maybe we should do this every Sunday and really get ready for church," Maggie said as other cars began to arrive. "Is that my recording I hear?" asked Dad. They all left the car smiling. – Nance E. Keyes How About You? Do you prepare your heart as well as your body for worship? It's good to be clean and look nice, but it's also important to make sure your heart is ready to worship God and learn from His Word. Next time you get ready for a church service, pray that God would soften your heart and open your eyes and ears to the things He has for you. Today's Key Verse: Lord, You have heard the desire of the humble; You will prepare their heart. (NKJV) (Psalm 10:17) Today's Key Thought: Prepare your heart for worship

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A Home in Heaven

11/2/2024
Bible Reading: John 3:3; 14:1-6; 1 Peter 1:3-5 "Do you really believe what your Sunday school teacher said?" asked Oscar. He was spending the weekend with his friend Michael while his parents were out of town. "Your teacher said some people won't go to heaven. If that's true, who gets to go? Do you? Do I?" "Like Mr. George said, only people who trust Jesus as their Savior will go to heaven," Michael replied. "Well, I don't get it," said Oscar. "Can we ask your dad?" Michael nodded, and the boys went to the living room where Michael's father was reading. Oscar cleared his throat. "Hey, Mr. Woods, everybody will go to heaven, right?" Mr. Woods shook his head. "Not everybody." He looked at Oscar and rubbed his chin. "Oscar, when you go home after school each day, do you ever ask yourself, 'Will Mom let me stay for dinner?' Or, 'Will my parents give me a bed to sleep in tonight?' Or maybe, 'What will I do if Mom and Dad don't let me in the house today?' Do questions like that ever come to your mind?" Oscar laughed at such a ridiculous idea. "Of course not! I'm their kid, so it's my home." "Well, it's the same way with God's family," said Mr. Woods. "When you trust Jesus as your Savior, you become a child of God--part of His family--and your home is in heaven with Him. If you haven't trusted in Jesus, you're not part of God's family, and heaven isn't your home." Michael turned to his friend and asked, "Are you part of God's family, Oscar?" Slowly, Oscar shook his head. "You can be," Mr. Woods told him. "You were physically born into your parents' family, so you're their son. To be part of God's family, you need to be born again--not physically, but spiritually." "How do I do that?" asked Oscar. "That's the best part--God has already done all the work for us! Jesus died on the cross for our sins and rose again so that we could have eternal life with Him. When we trust that His work is enough to make us part of God's family, we have a home with Him forever." Mr. Woods picked up his Bible. "Come sit and let me explain, okay?" Oscar nodded. "Okay," he said and took a seat. – Nani T. Bell How About You? Is your home in heaven with Jesus? The Bible says that everyone who trusts Jesus as their Savior is born into God's family, and their home is with Him. The only way to have eternal life is through Jesus. Trust in Him today, and you will have a home with Him in heaven forever. Is your home in heaven with Jesus? The Bible says that everyone who trusts Jesus as their Savior is born into God's family, and their home is with Him. The only way to have eternal life is through Jesus. Trust in Him today, and you will have a home with Him in heaven forever. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) Today's Key Verse: But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. (NLT) (Philippians 3:20) Today's Key Thought: Heaven is home for Christians

Duration:00:04:29

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Give Thanks for Stars

11/1/2024
Bible Reading: Psalm 136:1-9 "Our room is going to look so cool!" Ivy said as she set her brush down and took a seat on the floor. She and her twin sister, Elinor, had just finished painting their room completely black. After it dried, they were going to put star-shaped glow-in-the-dark stickers all over the walls. "It's going to be like sleeping outside!" Elinor said. "Okay, now we need to decide how we're going to put the stickers up," said Ivy. "Do we want to do some sort of pattern or just put them up randomly?" Just then Mom walked in. "The walls look good, girls." She turned on the overhead light. "I'm glad you're going to add the stickers though, otherwise it would be pretty dark in here." "Thanks, Mom," said Elinor. "That light helps--it's only three in the afternoon and it's already getting hard to see in here!" "Yeah," said Ivy. "Can you imagine what it would be like if God had made the sky completely black, without any stars or light?" "That would be pretty dark," replied Elinor. "Do you remember when we first moved here and we'd try to find the bathroom in the middle of the night with no lights on?" "I do," said Mom. "You girls got so many bruises from running into things that we finally had to get a night light." "Yes, and we were sure thankful for it!" Elinor picked up a star sticker from the floor. "I'm thankful God gives us night lights outside too. The stars and moon are beautiful to look at." "And bright," added Ivy. "When the sky is clear and the moon is full, we don't even need the house light on to play basketball." Mom nodded. "Sometimes we take for granted all that God has created and provided for us. It's important to remember to pause and thank Him for everything. I'm thankful that Jesus is the light of my life and that He loves me enough to die for my sins." Ivy sat up. "Elinor, that gives me an idea for how we should arrange the stickers! Let's scatter them around, but in the center of one of the walls, we form the words 'Give Thanks.'" "Let's do it!" said Elinor. "That will be a good reminder to thank God for everything He's done for us." – Melissa Yeagle How About You? Do you remember to thank God for everything He's given you? He created this beautiful world for us to enjoy and provides for our needs each day. He gave us His own Son, Jesus, who died and rose again to save us from sin so we could live with Him forever. What are some things you're thankful for today? Take a few moments to pray and give thanks to God for the wonderful things He's given you. Today's Key Verse: Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever. (NKJV) (Psalm 136:1) Today's Key Thought: Give thanks to God

Duration:00:04:29

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Spooked

10/31/2024
Bible Reading: Psalm 118:6-9; Isaiah 41:10 Danae was excited when she returned home from an afternoon of horseback riding. "That was so much fun!" she told her family. "We went on a trail ride through the woods. My horse was spooked once, but I didn't fall off!" "Spooked?" asked Dallas, Danae's little brother. "Did you see a ghost?" Danae laughed. "No, Dallas. It's just that when horses see something they don't expect--like a piece of paper blowing in the wind--they might all of a sudden jump sideways or try to run away. We call that being spooked. If you're not a good rider, you might fall off when the horse does that." "Horses are so big!" said Dallas. "Why would papers scare them?" Danae shrugged. "I don't know. They just do. But if the horse knows you and trusts you, he usually calms down and you can get him to go places he'd be scared to go otherwise." "Sounds like you've learned a lot about horses and how to ride them," said Dad. "Your description of how a horse responds when he trusts his rider is a good picture of how we should respond when we truly trust God." Danae tilted her head. "You mean we shouldn't be afraid to go wherever God wants us to go because we can trust Him to take care of us?" "Exactly," said Dad. "We need to trust Him in every situation. Sometimes we get spooked when unexpected things happen in our lives. We need to learn to trust God to take us through all the scary places." "Like when Mom was diagnosed with cancer?" asked Dallas. "That was scary." Mom nodded. "It was scary for me too. But your dad's right--we can trust God to take care of us in scary situations like that. Even though I was afraid of what might happen, I knew that because Jesus died to save me, He would always be with me through everything. Knowing that gave me peace and helped me not be afraid." "I didn't know I'd learn all this just from horseback riding," Danae said. A mischievous grin crept across Dallas's face. "Maybe it's time for me to take lessons too so we can all learn more about Jesus!" – Deborah S. Marett How About You? What things in life spook you--what scares you or makes you nervous? When you face scary situations, remember that Jesus is with you and in control of everything that happens. He loves you so much that He gave His life for you, and He promises to take care of you. Trust Him to help you through any situation. Today's Key Verse: In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. (NKJV) (Psalm 56:11) Today's Key Thought: Trust God in scary situations

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The Best Treatment Plan

10/30/2024
Bible Reading: Psalm 34:1-15; 2 Corinthians 12:8-10 Thea inhaled the mist from her nebulizer. She felt her chest muscles relax as air rushed in. Just a few minutes before, an asthma attack had robbed her of her breath. "How do you feel now?" Mom asked as Thea let out a breath. "Better," Thea said. "I wish I didn't have asthma." "I know," Mom said. "But thank God we have this medicine when you do have an attack." "Mom, why doesn't God just heal my asthma like I've asked Him to?" asked Thea. "Doesn't He like me?" "I don't know why God heals some people and not others. Even when Jesus lived on earth, some sick people weren't healed. But we know that Jesus loved them and that He loves you because He died so we could have our sins forgiven." "Then why pray about it if God isn't going to heal me?" Thea asked. "I still have the medicine to make me feel better when I need it." "Remember when we took you to the emergency room during your first asthma attack?" Mom asked. "Yeah, that was scary," Thea said. "I could hardly breathe at all! Then Dr. Singh came. He knew what medicines I needed." "Maybe since you have your medicine, we don't need Dr. Singh anymore," Mom suggested. "But Mom, he's in charge of my treatment plan!" Thea protested. "You're right, Thea. We still need Dr. Singh--and we also need God. When we pray, we're asking God to take charge of our lives. God loves you and is working for your good. In fact, God gave the knowledge to treat asthma to doctors like Dr. Singh. Your medicines came from the earth He created. Your doctor isn't here for every attack, but we trust and follow his treatment plan. We don't know all the ways God is working in our lives, but we know He loves us and is always with us, even when doctors can't be. We can trust that God knows just what we need and is bringing about good, even when He doesn't answer our prayers the way we ask." Thea sighed. "Then I guess the best treatment plan for my asthma is to keep praying and let God be in charge." – Heidi Schmidt How About You? Have you given up praying for a problem that has lasted a long time? Are you unsure what God is doing about it? Remember that prayer is asking God to be in charge. Prayer invites Him to be with you and bring His power into your life. God always hears you. He loves you and gave you the gift of His Son, Jesus, who died to give you eternal life. You can trust Him to work for your good. Today's Key Verse: The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and His ears are open to their cry. (NKJV) (Psalm 34:15) Today's Key Thought: Ask God to take charge of your life
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Looking Up to You

10/29/2024
Bible Reading: Philippians 2:1-4 "Oh man! Julie's here again?" whined Luke. "I told Aunt Megan I would watch her for a few hours," said Mom. "What's wrong? I thought you loved your baby cousin." "She's fine, I guess. It's just that whenever she's here, Kevin totally ignores me. He doesn't want to play or go outside. He just wants to hold Julie. What's so great about her, anyway?" muttered Luke. "She can't even do anything," "Let me show you something we liked to do with you when you were a baby," said Mom as she led him to Julie and his older brother, Kevin. "It takes a while for a baby's sight to develop. Julie can only see things that are eight inches away from her face." "Really? How far is that?" asked Luke. "That's just the right distance to see whoever's holding her," Mom replied. "Watch this." She slowly stuck her tongue in and out of her mouth at Julie. Julie started doing it back! "The only time it's not rude to stick out your tongue is if you're playing with a baby," Luke said with a laugh. "Let me try!" Much to Luke's delight, Julie mimicked him too. "Let's try peekaboo," suggested Kevin. Luke covered his face with his hands and then suddenly pulled them away and said, "Peekaboo!" Julie started kicking excitedly and huffed with joy. Then Kevin and Luke both tried the tongue trick again. When Aunt Megan arrived, Luke asked if Julie could stay longer. "I guess Julie grew on you, Luke," said Mom. "Once I realized she could see me, it was fun to connect with her," said Luke. "And that connection is important," said Mom. "Julie was looking up at you today, and she'll continue to look up to you as she grows. Just like you enjoy having your brother's attention, younger kids will thrive when you give them your attention, and you'll be showing them God's love too. He wants us to help younger children grow by loving and caring for them the way He loves and cares for us as His children." "I guess that means I'll have to stop sticking my tongue out at Julie," said Luke with a smile. – Kelly Bakshi How About You? Do you show younger children that you care about them? Do you know that you play an important role as a big kid? Babies and younger kids are always watching you. Don't ignore them--they are gifts from God! Show them you care by talking and playing with them and making them feel loved. As you care for them and help them learn and grow, you'll be pointing them to the love God has for us. Today's Key Verse: Don't be interested only in your own life, but care about the lives of others too. (ERV) (Philippians 2:4) Today's Key Thought: Care for young children

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The Hiding Tree

10/28/2024
Bible Reading: Psalms 27:5-10, 14; 91:14-16 Because there was so much arguing going on inside the house, no one heard Jude slip out the back door. He ran across the yard and shimmied up his favorite tree. Somehow, sitting in the big old tree made Jude feel better--safe from things like noise and heartache. The tree was his hiding place and escape. Jude stayed in the tree for a long time. He listened to birds chirp and sing. He watched small, quick squirrels run around the yard. The day looked better from high up in his favorite hiding place. There were no problems here. Still, his heart was very heavy. "Jude!" called Mom from the back door. "Where are you?" Jude saw that his grandma was there too, so he climbed down and walked slowly toward the house. "Grandma wants to know if you'd like to go home with her for a while," said Mom. "Do you want to?" Eagerly, Jude nodded. "That tree you were in must be very special to you," Grandma said as they got into the car. "Your mom says you spend a lot of time there." "I like it up there," said Jude. "It's away from everything." He sighed. "But it's almost winter. Then I won't be able to hide in my tree anymore." "Sounds like you'll need a new hiding place," said Grandma. "And you know what? There's an even better place where you can take shelter from the things that trouble you." Jude was surprised. "There is? Where?" "Any place you want it to be," Grandma replied. "It's the Lord's presence. Because you trust in Jesus, His Spirit lives in you, and He's always with you. He wants to help you and remind you how much He loves you. You can talk to Him anywhere, anytime." Jude kicked his feet together, looking down at the mat in the car rather than his Grandma's gentle gaze. "What if I don't want to talk about it, even with God? Grandma was silent for a moment. "Then remember that Jesus knows exactly what you're going through and promises to give you strength," she finally said. "If you don't want to talk, remember that He loves you so much He died for you, and know that you're safe in His care. He will listen whenever you're ready and will carry you through." – Nance E. Keyes How About You? Where do you go when you feel hurt, sad, or afraid? When you feel like you need to get away and hide, remember that God is with you. He wants to be your shelter and your hiding place. He provides comfort and peace through His Word, His Spirit, and the community around you. Wherever you are, He is with you, and He cares for you deeply and promises to help you. Today's Key Verse: The one who lives under the protection of the Most High dwells in the shadow of the Almighty. (CSB) (Psalm 91:1) Today's Key Thought: Rest in God's care

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Kelsey’s Dog

10/27/2024
Bible Reading: John 10:27-30 When Shaun asked to see the gift his little sister had just opened, Kelsey turned away. "No," she said. "Mine." "I just want to look at it!" Shaun said. "Sorry, kiddo, but it is her gift," said Mom. "I'm sure she'll let you look at it later. Right now, she's in love with that little dog." "It's a dog?" Shaun just wanted to see the small toy his grandparents had given his toddler sister for her birthday. When he got gifts, he held them up for all to see. But his sister had opened her gift and immediately gripped it tightly in her hand. Later that afternoon, Shaun found Kelsey sitting on the couch, watching a cartoon. He sat down beside her and touched her hand. It was still clenched in a fist, the toy she had gotten barely sticking out of it. "Can I see this now?" "Mine." Kelsey pulled her hand away from him. "But you're watching a show!" Shaun sighed. "I just want to look at it for a minute." "She's really attached to that thing." Mom stepped into the room. "She fell in love with it right away and doesn't want to let it go." "I've never seen her care about a toy so much," Shaun said. Mom sat down next to him. "I'm going to have to pry it away when it's time for her bath," she said. "That might be a struggle." She nudged Shaun's shoulder. "This makes me think of what we read during our devotional time this morning." Shaun didn't remember what they had read. "What do you mean?" "Remember what Jesus said about those who trust in Him?" Mom asked. "He said that no one will be able to take us from His hand." Shaun looked to his sister and then his mom. "You think He'd hold on that tight to us if someone tried?" Mom nodded. "I do. And He is much stronger than your baby sister. If He's clenching us in His hand like that, no one is ever going to get a hand on us." "You think He cares about us as much as Kelsey cares about that dog?" Shaun asked. Mom smiled. "Even more. Jesus gave His own life so we could be His, and He will never let us go." – Emily Acker How About You? Have you ever cared about something so much that you wanted to hold on to it all the time and never let anyone else touch it? That's the way Jesus holds on to those who trust in Him. He sacrificed His life to free us from the power of sin and death, and He won't ever let go of us. No matter what difficulties you face in life, He will be with you and hold you tightly. Today's Key Verse: I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand. (NKJV) (John 10:28) Today's Key Thought: God holds you tightly

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Moving Out in Faith

10/26/2024
Bible Reading: Hebrews 11:8-12 Jack helped Dad load the last of the boxes into the truck. Then he jumped down to the street and looked up at his house. It wasn't the largest or fanciest house on the block, but it was the only place he'd ever called home. Now his parents had accepted teaching positions at a school in Guatemala. They were moving away to an entirely new country. The moving truck door rumbled shut behind him. "That's the last of it," Dad said, wiping his dusty hands on his jeans. He turned to Jack. "Ready to get to the storage unit?" "Yeah, okay," Jack said. He shuffled toward the front of the truck and climbed in. Dad started the engine, and they drove slowly down the street. They passed Jack's favorite park, where kids he knew climbed on the jungle gym and played tag in the field. "Does our new neighborhood have a park too, Dad?" he asked. "I don't think so," Dad said. "But there's a playground at the school." Jack swallowed a groan. A new school with kids who would probably all speak Spanish. The red-and-white-striped umbrellas outside Mimi's Ice Cream Shoppe came into view. "Are there ice cream shops in Guatemala?" Jack asked, unable to keep the longing out of his voice. Dad glanced over at him. "Things will be different in Guatemala, Jack, but that doesn't mean they'll be bad." "But how do you know?" Jack asked. "Well…" Dad stopped the truck at a red light. "It isn't always easy to see the next turn in life. But that's what faith is all about--having confidence that God will see us through each new thing. He has always taken care of us--He sent Jesus to save us from sin and has provided for us and helped us through hard times. We can trust Him to be with us and help us now." The light turned green, and Dad guided the truck onto the next road. Jack thought about how he trusted Dad to drive the truck. He couldn't see the storage unit from where he sat, but he knew Dad would get them there. If he could trust Dad, he could surely trust Jesus, who died and rose again, to keep His promises. "Dad? Can we stop at Mimi's one last time on the way home?" Dad smiled. "Sure. One last time." – Christa Hogan How About You? Is there something new and kind of scary in your future? Maybe you're moving to a new school or neighborhood, or a friend or family member is moving away. Even if you don't know how all the details will work out, God does. He loves you so much that He sent His Son, Jesus, to die for you, and He promises to be with you and help you. Tell Him how you feel and ask for His guidance, then trust Him to take care of you. Today's Key Verse: Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see. (NIV) (Hebrews 11:1) Today's Key Thought: Have faith that God will take care of you

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Deleting Mrs. Trembley

10/25/2024
Bible Reading: Revelation 21:22-27 Willow swallowed hard. Ever since Dad had helped her set up her newspaper route accounts on the computer, she worked diligently to keep them up to date. But now she hesitated as her finger hovered over the delete key. The account on the computer screen was that of one of her customers--Mrs. Trembley. The name glowed with a special brightness--or so it seemed to Willow. As she stared at it, she tried hard not to cry. "Mrs. Elizabeth C. Trembley, 288 Fox Street, Faris, Iowa," Willow murmured. She swallowed again and then punched the key. Mrs. Trembley's name and address disappeared, and the screen returned to the program's home page. The account was gone forever--just like Mrs. Trembley. A tear slid down Willow's cheek as Dad came into the room. "Willow, what's wrong?" he asked. Willow gulped. "I erased Mrs. Trembley." She gestured toward the computer as she brushed a tear away with the back of her hand. "I feel so sad about it, Dad. She was the nicest person on my paper route." Dad nodded and put a hand on Willow's shoulder. Mrs. Trembley had been a real friend to Willow, but the kind elderly lady had died of a heart attack a couple weeks earlier. "When I pushed the delete button, I felt like I was erasing Mrs. Trembley's life," Willow said faintly. "You told me Mrs. Trembley was a Christian, didn't you?" asked Dad. Willow nodded. "She said she trusted in Jesus when she was a little girl." "Then Mrs. Trembley is safe with the Lord," Dad said. "Her name is written in the Book of Life--God's record of all those who have been saved by Jesus and will live with Him forever--and it will never be deleted." Dad gave Willow a hug. "You deleted Mrs. Trembley's name from the computer, but no one will ever erase her name from God's records. She's with Jesus now, and one day He will raise her from the dead." "I know." Willow smiled as she thought about that. She sighed, but she felt a bit better. "I'm glad. And I know I'll see Mrs. Trembley again someday, because my name is written in God's book too." –Carol J. Brookman How About You? Is your name written in God's record book--the Book of Life? If it is, it will never be erased. He will never forget you or abandon you--Jesus has given you eternal life with Him and will always be with you, no matter what. If you haven't yet trusted in Jesus, do it today. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) Then your name will be written in the Book of Life for all eternity. Today's Key Verse: Nothing impure will ever enter [heaven]… but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's book of life. (NIV) (Revelation 21:27) Today's Key Thought: Those who trust Jesus have eternal life

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A Tough Shell

10/24/2024
Bible Reading: 1 Samuel 16:6-13; John 3:16-17 TAP! TAP! TAP! Two hammers thudded on the walnut shells. Ben and his dad were stripping the thick outer shells from nuts they had gathered in the woods. "Ugh!" exclaimed Ben, looking at the stains on his gloves. "It was fun picking these up, but they sure are messy!" "Sure are," said Dad. "But just think how good Grandma's black walnut cake will taste when she uses these. It will be worth all the effort." As they continued working, Ben talked about school. "Did I tell you about the new kid in my class, Dad? His name is Collin, and he's weird!" "Why do you say that?" asked Dad. "He always talks too loud, and he thinks he's such a tough guy," replied Ben. "I just don't like him." Dad worked in silence for a while. Then he picked up another walnut and held it out. "Maybe Collin is like this nut." "Yeah--a tough nut to crack!" said Ben. "You don't know him very well yet, do you?" said Dad. He tapped the nut with his hammer. "Walnuts grow with this soft, spongy covering, and after we take that off, there's still a hard shell, so we can't see the good nutmeat on the inside. Collin may be like that. He may be quite different from who you think he is." Ben frowned. "You mean he may just be putting on a tough act?" "It's important to try and see others as God sees them," Dad said. "God loves each and every one of us, and He knows exactly what our hearts look like. When people are afraid or insecure, they sometimes act tough to hide their feelings." Dad finished removing the outer shell from the nut. "Have you ever done that?" "I don't know," said Ben. "Maybe." Dad nodded. "Well, with God's help, maybe you could get past Collin's outer shell. When you see him as someone God loves--someone Jesus died on the cross to save--it will help you be more patient and understanding as you get to know him. Then see what God does in both of you." Ben considered how he could get to know Collin better. "He was watching us play soccer at recess," Ben said. "Maybe he'd want to join us." –Judith K. Boogaart How About You? Do you have trouble liking someone because of how they act? It's possible they act that way to hide their fear or insecurity from others. Trust God to help you see that person the way He does. Remember that He loves them just like He loves you. He knows what's in each person's heart, and He can work through your love and kindness to change hearts and lives. Today's Key Verse: Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. (NIV) (Ephesians 4:2) Today's Key Thought: Look at others with love

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Going with the Flow

10/23/2024
Bible Reading: Titus 2:11-15 "Look at those jellyfish!" exclaimed Jude. "They look like tiny parachutes!" He leaned forward, watching the silky-looking jellyfish that were floating in one of the tanks at the aquarium. Ashlynn nudged her way closer. "Wow!" she cried. "Look at the colors--pink, white, blue, yellow, green, purple, and even some striped ones!" Dad was looking at the sign next to the popular exhibit. "When out of the water," he read out loud, "jellyfish look like a glob of jelly dripping from a spoon. Jellyfish are invertebrates. They have no backbone and no central brain." Jude came over to look at the sign. "It says they float by opening and closing their bodies like an umbrella. They hardly move unless a current comes along." That evening, the kids talked about the things they liked best of all at the aquarium. "Those jellyfish were so pretty," said Ashlynn. "It's cool how they just float along, going with the flow of the current." "It is cool how God created jellyfish to move that way, isn't it?" said Dad. "But it's important to remember that He didn't create us to be like that." "What do you mean?" asked Ashlynn. "Sometimes we just want to go along with what's going on around us," replied Dad. "We go with the flow and don't think for ourselves." "Oh." Ashlynn bit her lip. "Kind of like what I did when Brielle and Rachel were over yesterday." Dad raised his eyebrows. "Really? What did you do?" "Brielle and Rachel were making fun of Naomi, and I just went along with it and laughed at whatever they said." Ashlynn sighed. "Brielle and Rachel are really popular at school, and lately they've been wanting to hang out with me, so I didn't want to…" Her voice trailed off. Dad gave a sympathetic nod. "We all do things like that sometimes, which is why we need to remember that God didn't make us like jellyfish with no backbone. Because we trust in Jesus, God has made us His children and given us the power to love others and do what's right. When those around us do things that are hurtful and wrong, we don't have to go along with them. Instead, we can trust God to help us love others the way He does and stand up for them." –Lucinda J. Rollings How About You? Do you hold true to what is right? Do you defend those who are treated unkindly--even when it means standing up to your friends? Or do you just go with the flow? God didn't make you to be like a jellyfish--He gave you both a backbone and a brain! And if you know Jesus, you also have the power to obey Him and show His love to others. Trust Him to fill you with His boldness to do what is right, even when it's hard. Today's Key Verse: [God's grace] teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives. (NIV) (Titus 2:12) Today's Key Thought: Stand for what is right

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God’s Helper

10/22/2024
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:34-40; Mark 9:41 Jesse sat in church listening to a missionary speaker talk about a faraway country as he showed the class photos on a large screen. In one of the pictures, the missionary and several other people wore long white robes and had scarves wrapped around their heads. "This is the way we often dress where I live," he said. "The purpose of these loose scarves is to keep the sun off our heads. It really works quite well." Jesse sat up straight to see better as the missionary continued speaking. "It's often difficult to reach people in this country with the good news that Jesus died and rose again to save us. I'm happy to be there because I know God sent me to tell them about Jesus and how much He loves them." Jesse's eyes opened wide. He had never been away from home for more than a few days at a time. He hoped God wouldn't send him to a faraway country. He didn't want to leave his family. The next day, Jesse sat on the front steps. He could hear sounds from the kitchen where his mom was cooking, and he could hear the hum of his dad's lawnmower in the backyard. Jesse liked those sounds. He looked down the street and saw Mrs. Quarry, their neighbor, walking home with a heavy bag of groceries. She stopped in front of Jesse's house, set down her grocery bag, and leaned against the fence. The grocery bag tipped, and several cans of food clattered across the sidewalk. Jesse ran to help her. "I'll get your groceries, Mrs. Quarry." The old woman took a deep breath. "Oh, thank you, Jesse. But first, please help me up my front steps. I'm so tired." She put one hand on the fence and the other on Jesse's shoulder. He walked beside her and hoped she wouldn't fall. When they reached the porch, Mrs. Quarry sat down on one of the chairs. She looked up at Jesse and smiled. "God sent you to me, Jesse. He knew I needed help, and He sent you." Jesse felt lighter as he ran back to pick up the groceries. He realized there were many ways he could share the love of Jesus with others, and he didn't even have to leave home. –Ruth M. Hamel How About You? Are you serving God at home? At school? In your neighborhood? You don't need to wait until you're older--He will help you share the love of Jesus with others right now, no matter where you are. Ask Him to show you what you can do for Him today. Then serve Him by washing dishes, mowing lawns, helping a friend or neighbor, or doing whatever else He leads you to do. Today's Key Verse: Then I heard the Lord's voice, saying, "Who can I send? Who will go for us?" So I said, "Here I am. Send me!" (ERV) (Isaiah 6:8) Today's Key Thought: Serve God wherever you are

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All Shook Up

10/21/2024
Bible Reading: Matthew 7:21-29 "There's my dad. Want a ride home, Thomas?" Wesley asked after school one day. Thomas nodded, and the boys climbed into the car in time to hear a news report about the clean-up efforts in an area where an earthquake had recently occurred. "What causes an earthquake?" Wesley asked his dad. "Well, the earth's crust has splits in some places called faults. Sometimes the sides of a fault shift against each other and cause the earth to tremble. If they move against each other hard enough, it may shake the earth so much that buildings crumple." Thomas frowned. "Can that happen here?" He imagined his own house tumbling down. "Earthquakes occur all over the world, but according to the most recent geological maps, we're not living near any major faults in the earth's crust," said Wesley's dad. "Since we're on a more solid foundation, we're not likely to experience an earthquake. Even if we did, it probably wouldn't be a severe one." "Good!" said Thomas. "I'm glad my house is on solid ground." Wesley's dad nodded. "So am I." He smiled at Thomas. "But do you know that we need to build our lives on a solid foundation too? That's even more important than having our homes built on a firm spot in the earth's crust." Thomas looked puzzled. "Build our lives on a solid foundation? How do we do that?" Wesley chimed in. "We talked about that in my class at church last week! The lesson was on the story in the Bible about a wise man who built his house on rock and a foolish man who built his house on sand. When the storms came, the wise man's house stood strong, but the foolish man's house blew away." "In the story, the men's houses represent their lives," Dad explained. "We can either build our lives on a solid foundation or on one that will crumble in life's storms." Wesley nodded. "People who trust in Jesus are like the wise man. They're building their lives on the Rock, which is another name for Jesus." "That's right," said Dad. "Jesus is our firm, strong foundation. He died and rose again to save us from sin and give us eternal life, and He can hold us steady even when things in life get all shook up." –Nance E. Keyes How About You? Is Jesus the foundation of your life? He's the only foundation that will withstand all the trials of life and help you stand firm when everything seems to be crumbling around you. Build your life on the Rock by trusting in Him. (To learn more, click the "Good News!" button in the right column of this page or go to www.keysforkids.org/goodnews.) As you depend on Him and rest in His truth and promises, you'll be ready when life's storms come your way. Today's Key Verse: No one can lay any foundation other than the one we already have--Jesus Christ. (NLT) (1 Corinthians 3:11) Today's Key Thought: Build your life on Jesus

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A Different Beat

10/20/2024
Bible Reading: Matthew 5:3-12; Colossians 3:1-14 "Look at that guy, Mom," Raelyn said as she and her mother waited at a red traffic light. "He's practically dancing down the street instead of walking! He looks funny with his head bobbing back and forth like that." "I think he's listening to music," Mom said. "See his earbuds?" "Yeah," said Raelyn. "He's walking to the beat of the music he's hearing, isn't he?" "That's how it looks to me." Mom smiled as she watched the man bob in place while he waited for the crosswalk light to turn. "You know, that man reminds me of us as Christians." Raelyn gave her mother a little grin. "Are you saying we look like that when we sing worship songs in church?" Mom chuckled. "I was actually thinking about our walk with Jesus in this world," she explained. "Jesus tells us in the Bible that following Him as our Lord and Savior will cause us to be out of sync with the rest of the world. As we listen to Him and remember that He's changed us and given us eternal life, we walk to a different beat. When we follow His ways instead of going along with what everyone else is doing, we might look pretty strange to others." "That's true," said Raelyn. "Sometimes kids at school laugh at me when I refuse to cheat on homework or try to be kind to other kids they don't like." "People at work often think I'm strange too," said Mom. "Jesus says His Kingdom isn't of this world, which means His ways are very different from what we might see around us. The world tells us to follow our own desires and do whatever makes us feel good, but God says to follow and obey Him. And who loves you the most--God or the world?" "God!" Raelyn exclaimed. "Yes," said Mom. The light turned green, and she drove forward. "God loves us so much that Jesus died to save us, so we can trust that His ways are best." "Yeah." Raelyn turned to take one last look at the man dancing on the sidewalk before he was out of sight. "I want to walk to Jesus's beat and not worry about what other people think of me." –Lyndel F. Walker How About You? Are you walking to a different beat than the rest of the world? Do others laugh at you or think you're strange because you follow Jesus? The way He calls us to live is often very different from how society or other people say we should live. Instead of living to please ourselves, Jesus tells us to live a life of love and obedience that shows we belong to God. Trust Him to help you follow His beat as you walk through life with Him. Today's Key Verse: Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth. (NKJV) (Colossians 3:2) Today's Key Thought: Walk to Jesus's beat

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