Serving Challenge Kids: An 11-Day Adventure to Serve Like Jesusنموونە

Who Do We Serve?

When tiny seeds are planted, and small shoots appear, you might think spoiling them with lots of sunshine and rainwater would be good. But it is the opposite. Older trees block 97 percent of the sunlight from reaching the shorter, younger trees.

While that might seem a problem initially, it helps the little trees. Trees have the best chance of growing tall when they grow slowly. So, when the adult trees take a lot of the light from the little ones, they give them a better chance of a long life.

That doesn't mean the little trees—known as saplings—are left to fend for themselves. Because saplings don't get much sunlight, the full-grown trees help keep the little trees alive by sharing sap and nutrients.

To keep the baby trees healthy, the older trees must serve.

Like trees, children need to be protected by their parents, even from things that seem good. Friends, fun, and managing your own money sound great. But until we are strong enough for the responsibility that comes with these things, our parents or guardians need to keep us safe.

There are serious consequences when children are allowed too many freedoms. That’s why Jesus strongly warned those responsible for children in Matthew 18:6–7. When parents say “no,” sometimes it is for your best. They are helping you to grow healthy and strong.

It's easy to think about everything God says “No” to. But what are some things the Lord says “Yes” to?

He says yes to:

1) Our safety

“For you have delivered my soul from death, yes, my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of life.” Psalm 56:13 (ESV)

2) Our needs

“Yes, the Lord will give what is good, and our land will yield its increase.” Psalm 85:12 (ESV)

3) Coming back to us again

“He who testifies to these things says, ‘Yes, I am coming soon.’ Amen. Come, Lord Jesus.” Revelation 22:20 (NIV)

You are Jesus's “Yes.” He loves you so much that He went to the cross and died for you. Because Jesus said yes to you, you can give others your best yes!

Challenge:

Have a YES Day. Commit to saying yes to a request of someone who asks for help.