Seventh-Day Adventist Devotional For Children: “A United Team”

DAILY BREAD – DEVOTIONAL FOR CHILDREN

EASTERN NIGERIA UNION CONFERENCE CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

Thursday, July 20, 2023

Title: A United Team

” As for those who were held in high esteem—whatever they were makes no difference to me; God does not show favoritism—they added nothing to my message.” Galatians 2:6 (NIV)

Once upon a time, in a small town, there were two rival baseball teams – the Lions and the Tigers. Each team was skilled, but they often argued and boasted about their abilities. One day, they were invited to play in a friendly match against a neighboring town’s team, the Bears. But there was a problem – the Lions and the Tigers couldn’t agree on who should be the team captain.
The townspeople were worried that their rivalry would ruin the game, so they asked the wise old coach, Coach Grace, to step in. Coach Grace called both teams together and said, “My dear players, you are all talented and important. Instead of fighting over the captaincy, let’s unite as one team to play against the Bears. Together, we can achieve great things!”
The players were hesitant at first, but they respected Coach Grace and agreed to become a united team called the LigerBears. As they played together, they realized that they complemented each other’s strengths and became unstoppable. The LigerBears not only won the match, but they also formed lasting friendships and learned the value of unity and humility.
Apostle Paul, In Galatians 2:6, reminds us that God does not show favoritism, and He values each one of us equally. Just like the LigerBears, we all have unique strengths and gifts. It is essential to remember that God’s love for us is not based on our accomplishments, status, or popularity. He loves us just as we are. Instead of comparing ourselves to others or seeking validation from the world, let us embrace our God-given talents and come together as a united team in Christ. When we work together, appreciating each other’s strengths and supporting one another, we become a powerful force to bring joy and love into the world.

Thought for Reflection :
As we reflect on the devotional and the story of the LigerBears, let us consider how we view ourselves and others. Do we find our worth in our achievements, popularity, or possessions, or do we find it in God’s unconditional love? Let us remember that God values each one of us equally and loves us just as we are. Additionally, let us examine our relationships with others. Are we quick to judge, compete, or boast, or do we embrace unity and humility, appreciating and supporting each other’s unique gifts and talents?
Today, let us choose to be a united team, bound by love, and guided by Christ. As we come together in unity, we can achieve great things for God’s kingdom and be a powerful witness to the world. May our lives reflect the beauty of unity in diversity, drawing others to experience the love and grace of our Heavenly Father.

Song
Bind us together, Lord, bind us together With cords that cannot be broken. Bind us together, Lord, bind us together, Bind us together with love.
Refrain
There is only one God, there is only one King, There is only one body, that is why we sing: Bind us together, Lord, bind us together With cords that cannot be broken.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, We come before you with grateful hearts, acknowledging that you do not show favoritism, and each one of us is precious in your sight. Help us, Lord, to understand and embrace this truth fully. As we reflect on the devotional, we are reminded of the importance of unity and humility. Just like the Lions and Tigers became the LigerBears, may we also come together as one team, united in Christ’s love. Help us to appreciate and celebrate the unique gifts you have given each one of us, understanding that together, we are stronger and can achieve great things for your glory.
Lord, when we are tempted to compare ourselves to others or seek validation from the world, remind us of your unconditional love. Teach us to find our worth in you alone and to walk humbly in your grace. Help us to support and encourage one another, building lasting friendships based on love and respect. May we be quick to forgive, just as you forgive us, and extend a helping hand to those in need. We pray for unity in our families, communities, and churches. May we stand together, bound by the cords of love that cannot be broken, and be a shining example of your love to the world.
Thank you, Lord, for being our loving Coach and guiding us on this journey of faith. May we live our lives in a way that honors you, showing the world the beauty of unity and love among your children. In Jesus’ name, we pray.Amen.