Seventh-Day Adventist Devotional For Children: “Serving Others Despite Challenges”

DAILY BREAD – DEVOTIONAL FOR CHILDREN

EASTERN NIGERIA UNION CONFERENCE CHILDREN’S MINISTRIES

Friday,, October 6, 2023

Title: Serving Others Despite Challenges

Again and again,” and seeing them as his “glory and joy” (1 Thessalonians 2:20).

Have you ever faced a situation where it felt difficult to help someone or do something that you know Jesus wants you to do? Well, you are not alone! Even the Apostle Paul experienced similar challenges, but he didn’t let them stop him from serving his friends in Thessalonica.

In 1 Thessalonians, Paul writes about how much he cared for his friends in Christ and how he longed to be with them again. He saw them as his “glory and joy.” When Satan tried to block Paul from going to Thessalonica, he didn’t use his difficulties as an excuse to give up. Instead, he trusted in Jesus and continued to do what was needed.

Paul was worried that Satan might have turned his friends away from their faith. But instead of giving in to fear, Paul sent his trusted friend, Timothy, to minister on his behalf. Paul showed selflessness by putting his friends’ needs before his own desire to be with them.

Just like Paul, we might face obstacles and difficulties when we want to serve others. But remember, Satan wants to stop us from doing what Jesus wants us to do. However, if we let our troubles become more important than our responsibility to follow Jesus, then Satan wins.

So, think about one person today whom Jesus is calling you to selflessly serve. It could be a friend, a family member, or someone in need. And despite any challenges you might face, take a step to serve that person today. It may not always be easy or comfortable, but Jesus calls us to serve others with love and compassion.

Thought for Reflection:
Sometimes, it can be hard to serve others, especially when we face difficulties. But remember, Jesus is always with us, guiding and helping us. When we choose to put others’ needs before our own, we reflect the love of Jesus to the world. So, ask yourself, how can you show love and selflessness to others today?

Song
Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love;
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.

We share each other’s woes,
Our mutual burdens bear;
And often for each other flows
The sympathizing tear.

Prayer
Dear Jesus, Thank you for showing us the importance of serving others. Help us to overcome any challenges or difficulties we face when serving those in need. Give us the strength and courage to be selfless, just like Paul, and put others before ourselves. Guide us in reflecting your love and compassion to the world. In your name, we pray. Amen.