Family Pages Sherwood and his family were watching an old TV game show called “To Tell the
TRUTH” The idea of the show was that a panel tried to determine which of three contestants were making up a story and which one was telling the truth. Sherwood’s dad said, “I’m just not sure which of them I trust. I’d not do well on this game show.” Mom agreed that for her it would be a guess. Sherwood said, “There are a lot of people I trust. I trust you, other family mem-
bers, teachers, and friends.” This led to all of them talking about why would you trust somebody. One of the
things they came up with was that you trust people who always do what they say they will do.
But then Dad warned, “What about the times when something stops them from
keeping their word? Sherwood said, “Can you give me an example?” Dad replied that he could. “What about if one of your friends told you he would
meet you after school to play ball but his mother told him he had to get his home- but the weather prevented it? What if Mom and I and several members of the family told you about a coming birthday present but found it cost too much? There are a lot of examples when people you trust just cannot keep their word.” So Sherwood said, “Then who should I trust?” Mom replied, “That’s an easy question. You trust in someone who can control everything. Who do you think that would be?”
Sherwood said that’s an easy answer. “Only God is in control of everything. And we can always trust in God to always do what is best for us because he loves us.” Everyone agreed that there are people who you trust. And if they fail, it’s necessary to forgive. They did what they could. With God, there is never a time when He does not have the power to keep His word to us.
By Mary Drew Bult with Illustrations by Anna Campbell BultBy Mary Drew Bult with Illustrations by Anna Campbell Bult Summer is a beautiful time of freedom – a time of rest from busy school routines. How will you use it for God’s glory? Here are just a few ideas.
Spend Time with God The best way to spend your free time is with God. Talk to God, read His Word, dwell on Him – every second will be well worth it.
Use Your Talents God has blessed you with many unique gifts and talents, and you should strive to use each one of them for His glory. Do you enjoy art? Create cards for homebound church members. Do you play sports? Help teach younger kids your skill! Are you a talented musician? Visit a nursing home and play for the seniors! God can work through you to touch more hearts than you can imagine.
Volunteer Get involved with projects in your church and local community. Help decorate for VBS. Serve at an event for folks with special needs. Volunteer at a soup kitchen. Attend a short-term mission trip! Ask your parents if you need more ideas. The possibilities are endless!
Be a Good Neighbor Who can you serve this summer? Perhaps your next-door-neighbor is growing feeble and needs help weeding his yard. Perhaps a church member is having surgery and needs help cooking meals for her family. Perhaps you have a friend who does not attend church regularly and could use a prayer or two. Ask God to guide you in all your thoughts, words, and deeds. He will use you powerfully if you are willing to let Him!
“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is.” – Ephesians 5:15-16
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” – 1 Corinthians 10:31 16 The Associate Reformed Presbyterian
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