Seventh-Day Adventist Devotional For Children: “Rejoicing In God’s Work”

DAILY BREAD – DEVOTIONAL FOR CHILDREN

EASTERN NIGERIA UNION CONFERENCE CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

Thursday, June 29, 2023

Title: Rejoicing in God’s Work

“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now” (Philippians 1:3-5).

In a faraway village, lived two best friends named Ethan and Lily who were inseparable and spent most of their time together, exploring nature and playing games. One sunny day, they decided to venture into a nearby forest that was said to be filled with mysteries.
As Ethan and Lily walked deeper into the forest, they stumbled upon an injured bird with a broken wing. They carefully picked it up and decided to take it home, intending to nurse it back to health.
For several weeks, they took turns feeding the bird, protecting it, and praying for its recovery. Day by day, the bird grew stronger. Soon, it was able to flap its wings and fly again. Ethan and Lily were overjoyed at the miraculous transformation they witnessed.
One evening, as they released the bird into the open sky, they couldn’t help but marvel at the incredible work of God. They realized that just as they had taken care of the bird, God cares for all His creations, including them. They learned that they too could be part of God’s work by spreading love and kindness.
Ethan and Lily’s story teaches us an important lesson about joy and partnership in God’s work. The Apostle Paul, who wrote the book of Philippians, felt immense joy and gratitude when he thought about the people who partnered with him in spreading the gospel.
In the same way, God invites each one of us to be part of His work. Just as Ethan and Lily’s care for the injured bird brought light and joy to its life, we too can let our light shine by spreading love, kindness, and the good news of Jesus. We can bring joy to God’s heart by showing love, compassion and kindness to others. When we help those in need, encourage someone who is sad, or share God’s love with others, we become partners in the gospel.
We are called to be the light in a world that can sometimes feel dark and uncertain. By sharing our light, we can make a positive difference in the lives of others. When we let our light shine, we not only bring joy to others but also glorify God. Our partnership in God’s work involves sharing His love with others, being a beacon of hope, and living a life that reflects His goodness.
Dear children, you are never too young to make a difference in God’s kingdom. Just like Ethan and Lily cared for the injured bird, you can show love and kindness to those around you. When you partner with God in His work, you will experience a deep and lasting joy that comes from knowing you are bringing happiness to His heart. You are loved and cherished by God. Keep rejoicing in His work and spreading His love wherever you go!

Thought for Reflection:
How can we partner with God in spreading His love and kindness to those around us? May we be encouraged to take small steps each day, knowing that even the smallest acts of love can make a significant impact in someone’s life. As we go forth, may we remember the words of Jesus from Matthew 5:16: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Song
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine,
Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Prayer
Dear God, thank you for the beautiful example of Ethan and Lily. Help us to partner with You in spreading love, joy, and kindness. May our lives be a reflection of Your light in this world. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Parents/Grandparents Virtue Prayer Challenge – PRAYERFULNESS.
Grant, Lord, that my children and grandchildren’s lives may be marked by prayerfulness, that they may learn to “pray at all times in the Spirit with every prayer and request” (Eph. 6:18).