2 chronicles 16:9

"For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him. In this you have done foolishly; therefore from now on you shall have wars."

"This verse shows God's power. It says the Lord looks all over Earth for people who are fully committed to him. And when he finds them, he stregthens them. God's always watching you. And he doesn't need a high-tech telescope to do it. It's neat to think about God searching Earth for people who are fully committed to Him. Can't you just picture God in heaven staring down at Earth with a smile on his face because you love him with all your heart? Well, you can do more than think about it or imagine it. You can know it-because it's true. God strengthens you when you believe in him. God expects you to do great things, but he doesnt expect you to do them alone. He 's with you. He'll give you the strength to accomplish whatever he asks you to do. Praise God that he has his eyes on all believers and that he gives you strength."

Philippians 3:8

"Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ."

"Paul says that everything else is worthless compared to knowing Jesus. Some people know about Jesus, but they don't know him. They might have heard that Jesus is a good teacher or that he died on a cross. Have you talked to Jesus in prayer? Have you asked him to forgive your sins and come into your life? Have you read what he's told you through the Bible? Do you know him, or do you just know about him? Paul says it's worth losing everything to know Jesus. Jesus will never disappoint you. If you haven't before, pray and ask Jesus to forgive your sins and come into your life. Tell him that you want to know him and have a relationship with him."

matthew 2:7-8,12

"Then Herod, when he had secretly called the wise men, determined from them what time the star appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem and said, 'Go and search carefully for the young Child, and when you have found Him, bring back word to me, that I may come and worship Him also...Then, being divinely warned in a dream that they should not return to Herod, they departed for their own country another way.

"In these verses King Herod tells the wise men to find the baby Jesus and report back to him so he can also worship Jesus. But God warns the magi in a dream not to tell the king anything, so they go home a different way. Do you thing King Herod wanted to worship Jesus? If you've read the Christmas story, you know King Herod was lying. He really planned to kill Jesus. When the king's priests and religious teachers told him that prophets along time ago had predicted that a ruler would be born in Bethlehem, herod got mad. He didn't want anybody to rule but him. But as much as Herod wanted to kill Jesus, God had a different plan for his Son. First God warned the wise men in a dream about the king's real plan. Then he warned Jesus' parents to get out of Bethlehem and take Jesus to Egypt. And the same God who protected Jesus still protects his children today. Thank God for his protection, and ask him to give you the wisdom to stay safe."

Matthew 25:40

"And the King will answer and say to them, 'Assuredly, I say to you, inasmuch as you did it to one of the least of these My brethren you did it for Me.' "

"Jesus is telling a story to teach a lesson. In this verse Jesus says whatever you do for people in need, you do for him. If you're reading this book, you probably have more than most kids in the world. You have an education-you're able to read. You have enough to eat. And you have a warm place to sleep. Will you think about helping other people because of how generous God has been to you? Look in your closet and dresser, and hunt through all your stuff in the basement, attic, and garage. Find toys and clothes that are still in good shape but that you don't use anymore. Then ask a parent to help you donate them to a shelter or Salvation Army. Maybe you can even save your money to buy something for a needy child. Whenever you help people in need, you're actually giving to Jesus. Ask God to help you be more giving."

Philipians 3:14

"I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus."

"In this verse the apostle Paul writed that he's determined to win the prize for which God has called him. He knows it will take some effort, but the hard work will be worth it. What's more fun: winning a game without even trying or playing hard and defeating a team you never thought you could beat? For some reason, beating the tough opponent is a lot more fun, even though you have to work a lot harder to do it.
The same thing is true in your relationship with Jesus Christ. God's goal for you is to become more like him and understand more about his teachings. But to achieve that goal, you'll have to work hard by reading your Bible, praying, doing devotions, and going to church. And all that hard work will make your success even sweeter. Ask God to give you the strength and determination to live like him."

galatians 6:10

"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith."

"This verse says to do good to all people, especially people who believe in Jesus, whenever we have the opportunity. Some kids think the Bible is tricky to read. But the fact is God's Word can be crystal clear-and a lot of times it is. This is one of those cases. Look around for people in need, or even people you can be nice to for no reason. Maybe you could put your neighbor's newspaper on his porch. Perhaps you can tutor other kids in your class or try to befriend a new girl/boy at church or school. God will give you the opportunities to do good-all you have to do is look for your chances. Ask God to help you recognize opportunities to do good."

colossians 4:6

"Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one."

"Paul reminds Christians that their words should be carefully chosen. Our speech should always show God's grace and never be bitter or tasteless. We should seek God's wisdom to gently answer everyone.
In the movie Mary Poppins, the whimsical nanny sings, "just a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down." What she means is when something is hard to do or say, it can often be sweetened to make it easier to accomplish.
As a follower of Christ, you are called to speak the truth in a loving way. Sometimes people in the world wont want to hear what you have to say. But that doesnt make it any less important for you to share the truth.
so How can you make the gospel swee to a world of hurting people? Ask God to give you wisdom as you share the truth about Jesus to others. Be sensitive to what people are ready to hear. Ask God to help you choose words that are easy for others to swallow and still full of truth.

Hebrews 6:18

"That by two immutable things, in which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation, who have fled for refuge to lay hold of the hope set before us."
"God never lies. Everything he says in his Word is true. You can believe everything he says and live with courage and confidence in God's love, because you know that God's promises are true. It is impossible for God to lie, because he is truth (John 14:6). That's great news for us, because it means we can fuly trust everything God says. Each story in the Bible really happened. He will keep every promise. And most importantly, Jesus' sacrifice on the cross really is enough to save us from sin. But there's someone who doesn't want you to believe the truth. Satan will distract you from what is true and even lie to you to keep you from believing the wonderful promises of God. Are you believing God's truth or Satan's lies? A good way to know the difference between the two is to read God's Word and arm yourself with the Truth! Thank God for being completely truthful."

Acts 2:42

Good evening chosen jr. high! Acts 2:42 states, "And they continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in prayer."

"As the early church started to grow, believers in Jesus Christ committed themselves to getting together, talking together about important things, praying for one another, and learning more of God's teachings...What's more fun: working on a project individually or as a group? Group assignments can be a lot more fun, and you may even learn more because you can hear what other people have to say about what they're learning. Learning about Jesus is kind of like studying subjects in school. Doing things as a group can be good for a lot of reasons. That's what the early church discovered when they spent time together, and it's still true today. Early church members hung out together, talked about God, prayed to him, and studied Jesus' teachings. And God wants you to follow their example by going to church and Sunday school to be with other believers. Now commit yourself to gathering with Christians as you learn more about Jesus. Thank God that there are other Christians who can help you grow closer to him."

philippians 4:13

Chosen Ambassadors,
"I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me." Philippians 4:13

"The apostle Paul accomplished great things for God. Through his efforts, thousands of people came to know Jesus Christ. But Paul knew his strength came from God. Because God is all powerful, nothing was impossible for Paul.
Some things may seem impossible: passing a test, making a three point shot in basketball, or obeying your parents. You may get discouraged when a task seems too hard. But if you believe in Jesus, you have God's power in you. And nothing is impossible for him. He created the entire world out of nothing! He can be everywhere at one time. He knows everything, including the thoughts and heart of each person. A God that powerful can do anything. And he can definitely help you when you face a difficult situation or have a hard job to do. So ask him to help you when you get into an impossible situation. And remember that when something seems impossible, it's very possible with him. Thank God that you can do everything with his strength."

How can I know what is right and wrong?

What is God's will for your life? Many desire to do God's will, but struggle because they don't know what God's will is. The following are some principles from God's Word that will help you to discern what God's will is for you.

1. Is it helpful?

The first part of 1 Cor. 6:12 tells "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable (helpful).."Is it helpful to me? Will this help me to become a better Christian, a better friend, a better brother or sister?

The second guideline for knowing right from wrong also comes from this passage.

2. Will I be mastered by this

1 Cor. 6:12 goes to say, "All things are lawful for me, but not all things are profitable (helpful). All things are lawful for me, but I will not be mastered by anything. "Will I be enslaved by this? Think of some things that are addicting, for example...cigarettes, TV, and so on...

3. Will it cause someone else to stumble?

1 Cor 8:7-13 gives the third guideline for knowing right from wrong. In this passage, the principle is not to do things that will cause someone else to stumble. The apostle Paul had a strong faith; he knew there was only one God. He knew God had given him freedom to eat certain meats, but if it made others fall, he would not eat the meat.

As a student, can you think of any other situations where you could make someone stumble spiritually?

4. Does it glorify God?

1 Cor. 10:31 tells us, "So, whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God." Can this activity glorify God in some way?

Treasure Hunt

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal.  But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.  For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

By now, we have all heard about Michael Jackson, "The King of Pop".  The doctors are claiming that he went into cardiac arrest and died shortly after.  The Jackson family is demanding a 2nd autopsy to confirm the cause of his death. The fact remains ... Michael Jackson is dead.  He sold millions, and is reported to have had 13 songs that were #1 hits.  Most artists would consider it a successful career to have one song become a #1 hit.   The world is in shock, and many are completely devastated at Michael's death at the age of 50.  However, there is a truth that is more devastating and solemn than his death ... where Michael now is.  Reports have said that he was close to converting to Islam, thanks to his brother's efforts.  Nobody but the Lord truly knows where and what and who his heart served, but we do know that his life was anything but glorifying to God. People want to make Michael immortal, almost like he was a god, but we know that the Bible says that it is appointed for everybody to die, and then comes judgment.  "King of Pop" or not, without Jesus, there is no hope for Michael Jackson.  He built his treasure and fantasy land and made his music and videos with all of his heart.  Now, it's all worthless to him.  Salvation is the only important factor left for him, and without Jesus, that salvation is no longer available to him. Listen the Lord's warning in the verse at the top.  Be careful what you value and love and commit your life to.  Nothing will last for eternity, except those things done as unto the Lord and in HIs will.  Your heavenly Father loves you and wants you to let Him have the control in your life, that He may bless it and make it count!

Walk in the Light

1 John 1:7-If we walk in the light, as he is in the light . . . the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.

Suppose a student chooses to test the effects of light and darkness on the growth of seeds for a science fair project. He gets some marigold seeds from the store, plants them in four Styrofoam cups, and waters them. He places two of the cups in a dark closet. The others go into a sunny window. In a couple of weeks, the seedlings appear. For a few hours, the plants in the dark and the ones in the light are quite similar. Two tiny green leaves break through the soil and begin to grow. Within a couple of days however, the plants in the closet turn yellow and begin to die, while the ones in the light grow and get more and more leaves. The experiment proves that plants have to absorb light in order to have the energy needed to grow, bloom, and make seeds.

The same is true of our spiritual lives. We need to live in the light in order to grow and become fruitful. Galatians 5:22-23 describes spiritual fruit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These attributes are in stark contrast to the ones Paul listed as acts of the sinful nature: Jealousy, fits of rage, selfish ambitions, envy, etc.
Let’s imagine a spiritual science fair project in which we try to become more and more kind. At first, we determine to observe how we act after a few days of listening to rap music that encourages rebellion and watching television shows that glamorize gang members who commit violent crimes. We may continue the experiment by hanging out with some kids at school who like to sneak around after dark to paint graffiti on the sidewalks in their neighborhoods. Would we become more kind or less kind after a week or so?

Next, let’s imagine that we do exactly the opposite for a couple of weeks. We listen to music that encourages us to love others in the same way Jesus did. We read accounts of young people helping others through short-term missions projects. We watch uplifting TV programs and movies. We might even volunteer to paint some classrooms at the local community center or play games with the children who gather there after school. Would we become more or less kind after a week or so?

Clearly, kindness could grow much better in the latter situation. We tend to become like the people we hang out with. So, if we hang out with mean and violent people, we will become increasingly mean. If we hang out with kind, generous people, we will become kinder. Living in the light means developing relationships with people who will help us become more like Jesus. We grow in godliness when we choose our friends based upon whether they have the kind of qualities God approves.

Those friends will be more likely to do what Jesus would and that will help us do the same. Good friends definitely help us walk in the light as Jesus is in the light.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, you are the very best friend I could possibly ever want. You always love me and accept me. You even forgive me when I mess up. Please help me choose friends who will help me grow godly fruit in my life. Also, please me be the kind of friend who encourages others to become more like you every day. Amen.

Martha E. Menne

What's Growing Inside?

My wife, Christina, recently hit me with the most amazing news. She held up a note to me that read, "You're going to be a Daddy"! I will never forget that feeling of shock and sheer joy, knowing that my wife is pregnant with our first daughter or son. She has the smallest parts of a living human being growing inside of her, and it's something that I will never get used to. What a blessing!

Unfortunately, not all pregnancies are happy occasions with bright and hopeful futures. The Bible gives us such an example. I am referring to a passage in the 14th verse of the 7th Psalm. It states, "He who is pregnant with evil and conceives trouble gives birth to disillusionment."

We all have ideas, motives, dreams, plans, etc. growing inside of us. When the Lord is not the Director of our life and our hearts, sin is the primary resident that begins to grow inside of us like a baby would in a mommy-to-be. It starts out small and difficult to detect ... but it's there. Soon, if unchecked by the Holy Spirit, that sin begins to grow, and people begin to take notice of its effects on your walk and your life. You try to disguise it, hide it, so nobody will notice, but when that sin has come to full term, the gig is up, and the birth has arrived. The end result of that sin is death.

Jesus said in 1 John 1:9 that if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. We don't want that sin to grow and take over. Our lives should be giving birth to the fruit of the spirit because that sin is gone, and what is growing in us is the power of the Holy Spirit.

Peter said it well in 2 Peter 3:18, "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever! Amen."

Gods and Kings

Hopefully, the word, "Gods" catches your attention right off the bat. It should because we know that there is one God and one God only (Isaiah 44:6). He has revealed Himself in His Son, Jesus and has taken up residence in the heart of His followers through His Holy Spirit.

However, we live in a world that would not flinch at the mention of multiple gods or any other unbiblical idea. In the book, "Gods & Kings", which can be found in our Chapel Bookstore, and which I highly recommend, we see a glimpse in the life of King Ahaz. We see part of the sad story of this wicked king in the 28th chapter of 2 Chronicles.

In these verses, we see a man who, much like many people today, puts his trust in this world and his hope in other men and their worldly kingdoms ... but NEVER the God of the Bible. He chooses to serve dead, worthless idols, and turn away from the God Who loves him and wants to save him. Ultimately, as predicted, this proves to be his downfall. He provokes God to anger because he served other gods and false idols.

I encourage you to take a moment to read the 28th and 29th chapters of 2 Chronicles. The good news, and encouragement comes in the 29th chapter when King Ahaz's son turns back to the Living God and finds life!

May we all stay close to our God through Jesus and realize that it is His love that we were created to enjoy and live by.