Seventh-Day Adventist Devotional For Children: “The Cheerful Giver’s Treasure”

DAILY BREAD – DEVOTIONAL FOR CHILDREN

EASTERN NIGERIA UNION CONFERENCE CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

Friday, June 23, 2023

Title: The Cheerful Giver’s Treasure

Bible Verse: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7

In a small village nestled amidst rolling hills, there lived a young girl named Lily. She had a heart full of love and a desire to help others. One sunny day, Lily heard that her neighbors, the Johnson family, were going through a tough time. Their house had been damaged by a storm, and they were struggling to repair it.
Lily thought about how she could help the Johnsons. She didn’t have much money or possessions, but she had a special talent for painting. Lily decided to use her talent to raise funds for the Johnson family. She gathered her paintbrushes, colors, and a big piece of canvas.
With great enthusiasm, Lily painted a beautiful picture of the village, capturing its vibrant colors and the joy of its people. When she finished, Lily approached her parents and shared her plan. She wanted to auction her painting and donate the proceeds to the Johnsons.
Word spread throughout the village about Lily’s painting. People were excited to support her cause. On the day of the auction, the village square was filled with neighbors, friends, and even some strangers who were moved by Lily’s selfless act.
As the bidding began, everyone was captivated by Lily’s artwork. The bidding went higher and higher until finally, a kind-hearted villager named Mr. Jenkins won the painting. He offered a generous sum, knowing that it would make a significant difference for the Johnson family.
Lily’s heart overflowed with joy as she presented the money to the Johnsons. Their faces lit up with gratitude and relief. They thanked Lily and praised her for her generous spirit. It was a beautiful moment that reminded everyone of the power of giving.
Later that day, Lily received a surprise visit from Mr. Jenkins. He carried a small wooden box in his hands. Inside, there was a sparkling golden key. Mr. Jenkins explained, “Lily, your painting touched my heart, and I wanted to give you a special gift. This key unlocks a treasure chest filled with joy and blessings. Every time you give selflessly, the treasure inside will grow.”
Lily’s eyes widened with excitement as she realized the true treasure she had received. It wasn’t just the key or the chest—it was the joy she experienced from giving and the blessings she would continue to receive as a cheerful giver.
From that day forward, Lily continued to use her talents and resources to bless others. And with each act of kindness, her treasure chest grew fuller, and her heart became even more joyful.
Just like Lily, each of us has something special to give to others. It could be a talent, a smile, or even a helping hand. When we give with a cheerful heart, we become part of a beautiful adventure, unlocking the treasure of joy and blessings. Remember, God loves a cheerful giver, and the true reward is found in the act of giving itself. So let’s go forth and spread love, kindness, and generosity, knowing that our treasure will continue to grow and bless others along the way.

Thought for Reflection:
Take a moment to reflect on the story of Lily and the message from 2 Corinthians 9:7. Consider the following questions:

How can you be a cheerful giver in your everyday life? Think about your talents, time, and resources. How can you use them to bless others?

How does it feel when you give with a cheerful heart? What are some examples of the joy and blessings you have experienced through giving?

In what ways can you cultivate a heart of gratitude for what God has given you? How can gratitude impact your giving?

As you ponder these questions, remember that God loves a cheerful giver, and He promises to bless you abundantly as you give selflessly. Allow His love and joy to shine through you as you embrace the adventure of giving.

Song
(to the tune of “This Little Light of Mine”)

I have a cheerful heart, shining bright, shining bright,
I have a cheerful heart, shining bright, shining bright,
I have a cheerful heart, shining bright for all to see,
God’s love fills me up, and I’ll give generously.

Chorus
I’m a cheerful giver, giving all I can, Sharing love and kindness with every helping hand.
God’s joy fills my soul, as I give with delight, I’m a cheerful giver, shining God’s love so bright.

With my talents and my time, I will serve, I will serve, With my talents and my time, I will serve, I will serve, With my talents and my time, I will bless those in need, God’s love compels me, to sow generous seeds.

Prayer
Dear God, thank You for teaching us about the joy of giving through the story of Lily. We are grateful for the reminder that You love a cheerful giver. Help us to have hearts that overflow with love and generosity towards others. Show us how we can use our talents, time, and resources to bless those in need. Thank You for the treasure of joy and blessings that await us as we give selflessly. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

Parents/Grandparents Virtue Prayer Challenge – FAITH.
I pray that faith will find root and grow in my grandchildren’s hearts so that in their lives, “faith is the reality of what is hoped for, the proof of what is not seen” (Heb. 11:1). (See also Luke 17:5-6.)