The Pirate Who Kept Coming Back for More Trouble

Do you keep coming back for more trouble? René was a pirate. A really good pirate. And really good in the pirate world means really, really bad. The Royal Navy tried to catch him. They could not. He was that good. He was bad, fast, and mean. In other words, …

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God Sees Your Heart

“Look at your siblings, Dianne,” said Auntie Liza. “They’re so beautiful!” Dianne held her juice cup tight. Her smile faded. What about me? That night, she ran to her room, jumped on her bed, and hugged her pillow. As tears fell, she whispered”I’m not beautiful.” Later, she opened an old …

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God’s Spring Cleaning!

Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10) Though there have been some cooler temps, Spring is really here! Spring has already sprung, even if we need a jacket, friends. GOD has already given us His “new” life through JESUS CHRIST …

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You Don’t Have to Be Scared to Ride a Train — or Do Anything!

Have you ever done something brave? If not, you can. “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 (NKJV) One day, a little six-year-old boy named Kevin got to ride a really cool train called …

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Long Ben’s Big Problem

Henry Every had a nickname. Pirates LOVE nicknames. (It’s basically the best part of being a pirate. For sure, it’s the cheapest part of being a pirate.) His nickname was Long Ben. Nobody called him Henry. Not even his mom. Probably. Now, Long Ben wanted one thing more than anything …

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The Unluckiest Pirate Ever

Bartolomeo was a pirate. Or tried to be. But he was a VERY bad pirate. Not bad, like mean. Bad, like… nothing he tried ever worked. One time — by pure chance — he finally caught a treasure ship — a BIG one, full of gold! “SHIVER ME TIMBERS!” he …

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Easter

Did you know … Easter celebrates Jesus’ resurrection (rising from the dead) on Sunday morning after dying on a cross. Christians love this day because it reminds us that Jesus died to save us from our sins. The stone is rolled away Mary Magdalene and two other women went to …

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Drawing Closer Through A Lenten Reflection on God’s Love and Limits

Have You Heard These? “Stay away from this! It is locked for a reason!“ “Don’t touch that!“ “Slow down!” Have you heard or said any of these? What is the first thought? Reaction? Question? Did you hear yourself or someone else ask WHY? Why can’t I? Was your response anything …

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Easter Poem

An Easter Poem Jesus and his followers went to Jerusalem. As they traveled, great crowds followed them. He went to the temple and drove out merchants there. He said, “This is not for thieves. It is a house of prayer.” He taught at the temple and preached the Good News. …

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Easter Brings New Hope

Hook: Have you ever felt sad and hoped something happy would happen? Book: On Easter morning, Jesus’ friends went to the tomb where He had been buried. When they arrived, the stone was rolled away, and Jesus was not there! God had done something wonderful—Jesus was alive! Easter shows us …

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Speak Life Today

“Kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” — Proverbs 16:24 Our words are powerful. Every day, we use words to talk to our friends, our family, and even ourselves. Words can help people feel loved and encouraged, but they can also hurt if …

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Getting Ready for Easter: 40 Days with Jesus

Have you ever wanted to know God better? Maybe you want to learn more about Jesus and the Bible? Good news—you can start today! There’s a special time of year called Lent when we spend 40 days getting ready for Easter. It’s like counting down to the best celebration ever! …

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Hannah and the Dandelions

Psalm 96:12 (NKJV) “Let the field be joyful, and all that is in it…” “What is this? A day without freezing? Hurray! I can go outside and play!” Hannah grabbed her coat and ran to Harold’s house. “Harold, get your coat! Let’s go out and play hide and seek!” The …

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How to Grow a Big Heart Like Jesus

Meet Teeny Heart and Giant Heart Meet “Teeny Heart” and her “Big Bruh Giant Heart”! Both have earned the names tender hearts and growing hearts. Why? Not because of any physical changes, but because their hearts are sensitive to God’s Spirit, love, and Word after asking JESUS to take over …

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Stinky Foot’s Journey Home

Once upon a time, beside the sparkling Caribbean Sea, there lived a young pirate named Stinky Foot. Now, Stinky Foot had a problem. His feet smelled really bad. Flowers wilted when he walked by. Girls held their noses when he entered a room. Tough sailors cried, and fishermen buried their …

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God Takes Care of You!

A Special Message About Trusting God to Care for You Based on Matthew 6:33 Have you ever planted a seed? Maybe you put a tiny seed in the dirt, watered it, and waited to see what would grow. It’s pretty amazing, isn’t it? That little seed turns into something beautiful! …

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Let a Little Light Shine

“You are the light of the world … Let your light shine before others …” Matthew 5:14-16 Edwin Binney was an inventor and owned a company with his cousin Howard Smith. They made colors for factories—red for barns and black for tires. In 1903, at the urging of teachers, he …

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Seeing Grandma Through a Child’s Eyes

When I haven’t seen Grandma for a while, she looks different than I remember her . I think maybe I forget things change. I keep her in my mind the way she was before, like when we played together last time. This time when I saw her, I noticed her …

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Never Alone

When we feel worried or anxious, God is always with us, and we never have to face anything alone.A new year can be exciting… but it can also feel a little scary. New schedules. New classrooms. New friendships. New expectations. Sometimes all those “new” things can make our hearts feel …

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After the Decorations Come Down

For several weeks last month, energy, enthusiasm, expectancy, and excitement surrounded us. Everywhere we looked and went, there was singing, music, twinkling, and blinking. It was the order of the day for most. Which rehearsals are on the schedule? My brother and I get to help Grandpa with his huge …

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The Gift Who Always Fits

God is the gift who always fits. “Every good and perfect gift comes from GOD.” James 1:17 We so enjoy shopping and buying gifts for others, right? Especially for those whose preferences we know. Their favorites—colors, hobbies, songs, sports, foods, and places. Being on the receiving end of gifts is …

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No Snow, No Problem: Cookies Still Count

“It is more blessed to give than to receive.”— Jesus (Acts 20:35) Give cookies; count blessings. “I do not want Christmas to come this year,” Hannah said. “Do you want presents?” Grampa Hippo asked. “I do not want Christmas. Not even presents,” Hannah said. “What is wrong?” Grampa asked. “It …

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Keep Inching Along

Do you have a real, live pine tree as your 🌲 Christmas tree? Describe the scent? Have you seen, smelled, touched any items made of pine? Come with me to a time long ago, to a place where pine and cedar trees were plentiful, useful, and beautiful! A young man …

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A Poem of David and Goliath

Goliath served with the Philistines. The biggest guy anyone had seen. He challenged the armies of Israel. He threatened them with his steel. He asked, “Will anybody fight?” “I will beat any with my might.” He held his sword up so high. He shook it in the sky. When that …

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God Knows Your Name

God knows your name. Think about that for a moment. Did you know the New Testament starts off with a long list of names that are difficult to pronounce?  It can be exhausting to read and you may be tempted to just skip over them. If you don’t skip them, …

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Acorns of Wisdom

Acorns of Wisdom… PLOP! Emma sat down in the grass just in time to spot a squirrel zooming across the yard like a furry rocket. Its cheeks were stuffed so full of acorns that Emma burst into laughter. POP—KA-BOOM! “Acorn fireworks! That squirrel looks like it’s about to explode,” she …

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God’s Love Never Changes

God’s love never changes. This Bible lesson for kids shares a fall story, verse, and activity to help children learn God’s love is forever. Braden zipped up his jacket as he and Fudgie, his beagle pup, crunched through a pile of leaves. “Look, Fudgie!” he laughed, tossing orange, yellow, and …

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1 or More Powerful Reasons Komodo Dragons Wear Armor—Do You?

Komodo dragons wear armor. Do you? Joan Procter was a British herpetologist whose fascination with reptiles began as a child.  At 10 years old, she kept snakes and lizards as pets. At 16, she got into trouble for taking a young crocodile to her math class. At 19, her knowledge …

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The Bigger Picture

“God looks to the end of the earth and sees everything under the heavens.” Job 28:24 Do you like photography? I like photographing people, but my daughter, Caroline, enjoys taking pictures of the sky. One evening, Caroline sat outside taking pictures of a beautiful sunset. When she was reviewing some …

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Authentic AWESOMENESS — 14,000 varieties of mushrooms, 10,000 types of tomatoes

GOD’s (our) world is really big—GINORMOUS… His Authentic AWESOMENESS! It has many fascinating, exciting, new, and spectacular people, places, and ideas. Yet all of these seem to be made smaller—or not as significant—by technology, travel, and easy access. Scientists are realizing there are countless galaxies and discoveries yet to be …

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Moses and the Great Escape

This is the story of Moses, Whose life was no bed of roses. His mother feared for his life, She sent him away from strife. She set him in a reed basket— Better that than a casket. Pharaoh’s daughter found this boy, And held Moses up with joy. So he …

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The Write Friend

“I hate school.” “Why, Hannah?” Henry asked. “My friends aren’t in my class.” Hannah brushed a tear from her cheek. I don’t know anyone! I feel all alone.” Henry shook his head. “That’s terrible, Hannah. I have Harold and Harley in my class.” “All my friends are together,” Hannah cried. …

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God’s Glory Set in Stone: The Petrified Forest

In the desert of northeastern Arizona lies the Petrified Forest—a landscape where trees that once lived are preserved in stone, ancient wood turned to crystal. These trees, some over 100 feet long, buried by sediment and transformed by the power of God’s artistry, now glitter with quartz, amethyst, and jasper. …

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Autumn

Autumn leaves falling down,changing colors till they’re brown. Green, yellow, orange, and red,the bare trees look dead. I have to spend a whileraking leaves into a pile. The kids go back to schoolsand must obey all the rules. The skies look dark and grey;it’s getting colder every day. The plants …

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Minnie-Henny Learns An Important Lesson

An Important Lesson…“Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5 NIV) Important Lessons “Who is the most important bird?” Minnie-Henny squawked. She watched Rooster crow loudly from the tall tree stump. He stretched his neck, keeping a sharp eye on the sky. Minnie-Henny’s gaze shifted. Mama …

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Minnie-Henny’s Full Heart

A Full Heart “I’m hungry!” Minnie-Henny clucked as she trotted out to find breakfast. In the chicken yard, she spotted a tiny chick huddled in the corner. He looked thin and scared. His feathers stuck out, and his legs wobbled when he tried to hop. He pecked at the ground …

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Noah and the Ark

Noah and the Ark God thought most people were bad.Their wickedness made him sad.He vowed to destroy life on earth.With one small chance for rebirth. But Noah was a righteous man.And the Lord gave him a plan.Noah was to build a boat.The largest one ever afloat. Noah built the ark …

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Hippos Butter Not Fly (But Butterflies Do!)

“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Ecclesiastes 3:1 “Oh… butterflies!” Hannah gasped. Hundreds of colorful butterflies floated over the grassy meadow where the little hippos were resting. Hannah hopped right into the middle of them, clapping her hands with joy. But …

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Being All There!

In all the “ease” of summer, for some, life is still on the fast track and may even be revved up a notch! Comings, goings, VBS, appointments, volunteering, activities, meetings, rehearsals, trips, camps…you get the idea! With these ins and outs, we repeat saying our goodbyes in haste… “See ya, love ya”! …

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In the Beginning 

Space had a dearth. Til God made heaven and earth. He made the stars and universe. The sun, and moon, for better or worse. From darkness, he said, “Let there be light.” He separated the day from the night. He made the seas. He made the lands. He made beaches …

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Braden and the Magic Screen — Erase with Amazing Grace

Braden sat on the floor, turning the red knobs of his Etch A Sketch. Across from him, Mr. Fudge—his beagle pup—watched closely. Slowly, a picture began to appear. It looked just like Mr. Fudge! His tail wagged with excitement. He knew that drawing was of him! Braden loved using his …

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Cain and Abel — A Poem

Cain and Abel In the Bible, you’ll find this fable. Of the first two boys, Cain and Abel. While Adam was pushing the earth. His wife Eve was giving birth. Life wasn’t easy living on the plain. Growing crops and raising Cain. After the first boy, Eve had another. Cain …

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Hippo Hide-and-Seek

“Cheater! Cheater! You peeked!” Henry shouted. “Did not! I only peeked a tiny bit!” said Hannah Hippo. “You didn’t even count to twenty!” “Everyone else was already hiding. I didn’t have to wait!” “I wasn’t hiding yet!” Henry huffed. “That’s not fair!” “Well, you’re it now. And you’re a bad …

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Big Views, Bigger God: A Grand Canyon Family Adventure

Have you ever seen something so big and beautiful that it took your breath away?  That’s how you feel standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon.  The Grand Canyon is one of the most amazing places in the whole U.S.A. This giant canyon stretches 277 miles long, 18 miles …

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Abilities!.. Possibilities!… Rock Badgers… Too?

God makes everything with His own special touch—POW! Every animal, bug, person, and star is stamped “Made by God.” That includes you! God made each of us with some amazing gifts. Maybe you’re good at singing, building, helping, or drawing. But guess what? God also gives us things we can’t …

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Desert Wonder: A Family Adventure in Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree National Park, located in southern California, is a stunning desert landscape where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet. Famous for its twisted, spiky Joshua trees and towering rock formations, kids and adults alike will be amazed by God’s creativity. Once inhabited by Native American tribes like the Cahuilla …

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Hippo Beach

“Look! I found a crab!” shouted Harold Hippo. “Hannah, look!” Hannah frowned. “Harold, we don’t want to see your crab. We’re making sand ponds.” “But look at his awesome shell!” Harold said, holding Crabby up. “Eek! Get that nasty crab away from me!” “He’s not nasty,” said Harold. “He’s a …

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Jonah and the Big Fish (Jonah 1:1–17)

Have you ever tried to run away? Maybe you didn’t want to clean your room or do something hard. That’s what Jonah did! One day, God told Jonah, “Go to the city of Nineveh. The people there are doing bad things, and I want you to tell them to stop.” …

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Shining for Jesus—Even When School’s Out!

GOD’s still teaching; SCHOOL 🚌 is OUT… you are the next grade level!! YEAH! 🙏🏾 This prayer is for yourself and other students around your community, state, nation, and world. (I pray it for students everywhere!) ✝️ LORD, thank YOU for being my very best Friend. YOU are THE ONLY …

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Polar Bears and the Light of the SON

Polar Bears Polar bears are big animals that live in the Arctic. That is the coldest place at the top of the world. What They Eat Polar bears are carnivores. That means they eat meat. Their favorite food is seals. A polar bear can smell a seal from 20 miles …

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Marveling at God’s Mighty Works

Never Thought of ALL That! O LORD, Your creation and works are past finding out.O LORD our Lord, how excellent are YOU in ALL Your ways! As a rainbow 🌈 makes its spectacular appearance, trees sway in a gentle breeze, raindrops cling to rose 🌹 petals, and an eagle 🦅 …

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Flip ‘n Flop

Splash! “Help! I’m sinking!” “Flop, you’re a frog. Frogs don’t sink.” “Aww, Flip, you’re no fun. I was just pretending!” “Why don’t we pretend happy things instead of scary ones?” “Hmm… maybe because it’s exciting? Sometimes you’re such a pole in the mud, Flip.” “Stick, Flop, not pole.” “Stick, pole, …

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Working Together for God

“Let us not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.” Galatians 6:9 (NLT) Devotion Time! Have you ever built a puzzle with your friends or family? Imagine trying to finish it all by …

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The Tower of Babel—A Poem

There was a king named Nimrod. He wanted to reach God. As a show of his power. He ordered his people to build a tower. They built it wide. They built it high. From the ground into the sky. God was displeased at what was done. He made them all …

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Helping Makes Us Happy!

So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you. Matthew 7:12 (NIV) “School’s out! What do I want to do?” Hannah Hippo asked. She thought about ice cream. She thought about cupcakes. She thought about toys and laughing. Hannah jumped. She squealed. She splashed and …

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Sing, Skip, and Praise: A Springtime Devotional for Kids

Thank GOD as we enjoy GOD’s spring-warm temps, the great outdoors, and longer days! You are sure to smile or LOL as you skip, clean, run, practice, study, hop, dust, cook, exercise, walk, dance, or jump rope to these versions of the Piggyback Song… One, Two, Buckle My Shoe. We …

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What is Biblical Archaeology?

Then the Lord rained upon Sodom and Gomorrah brimstone and fire from the Lord out of heaven; and He overthrew those cities… Genesis 19:24-25 Hey guys, let me introduce myself, my name is Angela the Archaeologist! I’m a Biblical Archaeologist from the great state of Texas. A lot of people …

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Stephen’s Scary Sky Ride—Based on Mark 4:39

The sky looked dark and cloudy. Stephen frowned. “Why today?” he said. He was thirteen and had waited all year to come to Aviation Boot Camp. All the other kids got to fly already. Now it was finally his turn—and a storm came. “Ready to go for a ride?” asked …

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Jimmy and the Horse Called “Runaway Heart”

Jimmy loved horses. He volunteered at a farm where children rode horses for therapy. His job was to walk beside the horse and help kids stay safe in the saddle. One sunny afternoon, Jimmy walked beside a tall brown horse named Runaway Heart. A small boy sat in the saddle, …

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Broken? Bending? Standing Strong!

Blessed is the person who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers, but whose delight is in the law of the Lord! Blessed is the one who meditates on God’s Word day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in …

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Hezekiah’s Tunnel

Everything else Hezekiah did while he was king, including how he made the upper pool and the tunnel to bring water into Jerusalem, is written in The History of the Kings of Judah. (II Kings 20:20 CEV) Long, long ago in the 8th century BC, the fierce Assyrians were threatening …

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That’s What Friends Cock-a-Doodle-Do!

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Matthew 5:7 NIV “Cock-a-doodle-doo!” Rooster strutted across the chicken yard. He was the King of the Coop. The strongest. The loudest. The scariest. His crow hurt his ears. His wings scattered the hens. His sharp spurs poked and pierced. The …

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‘‘Chalk-the-walk: JESUS died … now LIVES! Take The Rock!”

With parent/guardian permission and a few relatives/friends/neighbors, get pens/pencils/paper first then chalk in hand! You are now an SST-sidewalk story teller! Read the Biblical account of Jesus riding into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday and the daily events until Easter Resurrection morning Sketch your story on paper. Use symbols, pictures often …

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The Jesus Boat

And when He (Jesus) got into the boat… there arose a great storm on the sea…Then He rose and rebuked the winds and the sea, and there was a great calm. (Matthew 8:23-27) Have you ever been on a boat? Jesus and his disciples went on boats a lot. Matthew …

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An Old Coat and Gruff Goat

“Elijah went up to him and threw his cloak around him.” (1 Kings 19:19) Long ago, Ricky Raccoon received a special coat from his grandfather. “But it wasn’t just any coat,” Ricky told anyone who’d listen. “It was Grampa’s most precious robe. He was very important. When I wear his …

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Sent Ahead to Save—God’s Plan and Joseph’s Journey

When we last saw Joseph, he had received the enormous task of preparing for a great famine. As the second most influential person in Egypt, Joseph served as God’s representative, positioned to save many lives. This reflects the heart of God and the earthly ministry of Jesus—preserving life. Joseph’s God-given …

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Henny Minnies New Friends

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted. Matthew 5:4 NIV. “Look! Look!” Henny Minnie flapped her wings happily. “New chicken friends have arrived!” Henny Minnie clucked with delight. She loved meeting new friends. Fluffing her feathers, she ran to greet them. But the pecking order had begun. …

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Who Me? Forgive My Family?

Joseph was a truly gifted boy! Well-loved by His father, Jacob! Jealously envied by His big brothers, as you remember, they sold him as a slave. He serves the most important person in Egypt now! Joseph is miles and miles away from his distant father and family; yet, not from …

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Life Is A Family Affair

During this special season of Lent, we focus on being more like Jesus! One of the ways we learn how to grow in the ways of CHRIST is through studying more about the lives of Biblical families. We know about twin brothers Esau and Jacob. Our hearts are thankful they …

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Family Is God’s Idea

Your family, mine, and most are similar to other families; yet each family has their own God-designed uniqueness. “God sets the lonely in families, he leads out the prisoners with singing; but the rebellious live in a sun-scorched land.” (Psalm 68:6) Does everyone in your family seem to tell jokes? …

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God’s Creation—A Talking Donkey

Numbers 22:28 Then the Lord opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said to Balaam, “What have I done to you, that you have struck me these three times?” (ES). “Please! Please,” the donkey said. “Don’t beat me!” Balaam’s donkey didn’t understand why her master was upset. As commanded, …

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What Difference Does ‘IT’ Make, Anyway?

Let’s ask GOD and thank Him for His help in doing good as we look toward the Cross. “Do I have to do it again?” “I am tired!” “Why ME?” “No more practice today!” We feel tired for reasons. If you feel this or know someone who does, think about …

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God’s Creation—The Cat

There is a candy called a Lifesaver. It gets its name because its round shape resembles the life-preserver rings that boats carry in case someone falls overboard and needs help. Frisky the cat did not live by water, but he became a lifesaver. His family lived in the country with …

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The Little Children and Jesus

Let the little children come to me. Luke 18:16. Have you ever made a public confession about your belief in Jesus and wanting Him in your life as The One Who guides you? Is there a christening, baby dedication, or baptism certificate on the devices, wall, mantle or table in your home? Perhaps a video, …

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God’s Creation—Look at the Birds

 “Look at the birds of the air: … your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?”- Matthew 6: 26 ESV. Brrr! Too cold to go outside. It’s winter and not much to watch outside. But look! See the birds? No matter how cold it is, …

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Revelation 22:1-7—Heaven Prepared Just for You and Me!

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops …

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God Is Forever! Forever Is a Looonnnngggg Time

Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.  Psalm 90: 1 Who or what is the oldest person or thing you know? You have become acquainted with one of …

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Writing for God’s Kingdom: Sharing Stories That Help Others

Stories are powerful—they make us laugh, teach us important lessons, and help us feel close to each other. For Christians, stories do something even more special: they can help people know God better and feel His love. Writing stories for God isn’t just about making up fun tales; it’s a …

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Noah’s Builds a Boat: Riding Out Life’s Storm

Long ago—before ships sailed the seas—lubbers and giants roamed about, doin’ as they pleased. These scallywags called bad things good and good things bad. They lied, cheated, and plundered like pirates. But Skipper, who sees all, were not laughin’. “I’m sore sorry I made man,” Skipper said. “Time to swab …

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Cracking the Great Egg Mystery

And God said, “Let the earth bring forth living creatures according to their kinds” (Genesis 1:24 ESL). Dinosaur eggs? Chicken eggs? Turtle eggs? Snake eggs? Platypus eggs? Aren’t eggs, eggs? That’s scrambling my head to think about all that. It’s an egg mystery. How will we crack it? How do …

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The Wonder of Nature: 7 Simple Ways to Teach Kids About God’s Creation

As parents, caregivers, or teachers, one of the most powerful gifts we can give children is a sense of awe and appreciation for the world around them. Nature is a profound reflection of God’s creativity and love. From towering trees to tiny ants, every part of creation tells a story …

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Stop, Drop, Roll Out…

Jesus said, “Believe me, woman. The time is coming when you will not have to be in Jerusalem or on this mountain to worship the Father. You Samaritans worship what you don’t understand. We Jews understand what we worship. Salvation comes from the Jews. The time is coming when the …

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A Day At The Beach With Daddy

Ellie woke up one morning thinking about her big project. She needed to paint a giant cardboard castle for her school play. Paints, brushes, and a glittery crown sat in a pile, ready for her to start. But as she grabbed her brush, she stopped. Remembering her promise to spend …

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Bible Lessons from the Chicken Coop

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.” — Ephesians 4:2 People act a lot like chickens. Chickens are not all the same. Some have feathered feet. Others have feathers on their heads that stick out everywhere. Different types of chickens can lay different colored …

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Red Apples and Kind Words

Sparkling dew drops slipped off the apple tree leaves and hit me on the nose. Squinting, I tried to avoid the splash against my eyelashes. I stretched as I tried to reach the shiny red apple hanging just out of my reach. With one final effort, I stood up on …

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Spiritual Strength

I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 How strong would you have to be to defeat the Incredible Hulk? You’d probably need biceps the size of boulders and superhuman strength. How strong is the Hulk exactly? He’s so strong that he could lift a …

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Jesus, Our Peacemaker … Referee … Mediator

For there is one God and one Mediator [Peacemaker; Referee; Connection] between God and mankind, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all people. 1Timothy 2:5-6 🙂   Picture who JESUS is.  Stretch your brain a bit and tell me what do you see in your mind’s eye? Loving parents who nurture, …

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Old Pete’s Wild Ride: The Night The Son Invented Surfing

Arr, gather ‘round, ye scallywags, and hear the tale of Old Pete, the only sailor ever to defy the mighty pull of the deep without so much as a driftwood plank under his feet! Aye, this be a tale o’ brave hearts, blustery waves, and one mind-bogglin’ walk that’d make …

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“Night, night! Sleep tight!”

On my bed I remember You; I think of You through the watches of the night. – Psalm 63:6 You may have heard this saying ’Sleep tight’ to ensure you have a restful night’s sleep. Well, it certainly has a very interesting somewhat amusing story behind it (search around and let us …

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Show-Offs and Screechers: When Sounding Off Is Annoying

I was so excited to visit my grandparents in Florida. Every year, we went down to their house, and every year, something new and weird happened. This time, it was the “Proud Screeching Fowls with Foul Mouths.” My grandparents live in a quiet neighborhood, or at least, it used to …

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How Skipper Tamed the World’s Wild Waters

Ahoy, mates! Brace the main and prepare fer the greatest sea tale ever told. This be the story of how the Skipper tamed the world’s wild waters. 

In the beginning, there be nothing but water. Everywhere and all around, water covered everything, with no Land-Ho for a pirate to make port. ‘Cept back then there were no pirate mates, only the Skipper and the water.

And not the kinda water ye wantin’ ter splash around in, but wild and deep like a never-ending tidal wave. 

Now, Skipper, seein’ how He created all things, knew the potential of this water, and the Skipper pulled off the greatest feat in history!

Skipper’s Spirit roiled the surface of the deep. And there was lightnin’ and booms! Stars and flashes and with a mighty thunder out popped the seas, oceans, rivers, and dry land! 

Land, mates! 

The thing we don’t sink into!

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CHOICES! CHOICES! DECISIONS! DECISIONS!

We make numerous choices every single day! How many have you had to make so far today? If you have only been awake an hour, perhaps not too many, yet! Some are fairly simple and may not make much difference one way or the other. Do I wear black or gray socks? Others require ongoing efforts of seeking the Lord, searching the scriptures, listing pros/cons, researching the options, lots of discussion with family, godly counselors, prayer, and fasting.

Unlike the color choice of our socks, these choices hold power that can have long-term consequences and may affect others in our lives, families, friends, neighbors, and communities. These decisions are most likely complex, stressful, and time-consuming. The Bible records the details of such a person. In Nehemiah chapter 1, a godly man is overwhelmed with grief about his people, their condition, and their city. 

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Circle Puzzle: “Love One Another”

Starting at the center:   Circle the first word Skip two words Circle the next word Skip three words and Circle the next and… Skip one word and circle the next; skip two words and circle the next two; skip two words and circle the next one; skip three words …

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God’s Continued Blessings “Treats’ HIS 10th Month

GOD’s Tenth- month-“Treats” (10X10) FALL into GOD’s goodness Psalm 100:5.  The LORD is good and HIS mercy endures forever. Psalm 119:103. How sweet are YOUR Words to my taste; sweeter than honey to my mouth! Psalm 25: 8-9.  Good and upright is the LORD; therefore He shows sinners the way. He guides the …

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Terrifying Night: Tiny Intruder Causes Chaos in Quiet Home!

Deep into the evening, I had just opened to chapter seven when all of a sudden what was a docile TV room behind me lit up with shouts and raised voices. I looked up from the page to see a little black creature zip in from the kitchen, making a …

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How a Young King’s Faith Saved a Generation

Have you ever hidden a time capsule and then dug it up later? Josiah became king at just 8 years old. His father had been a wicked man.

When Josiah turned 16, he started following God. He knew the Israelites were sinning. He wanted to make it right. At 20 years old, he ordered the destruction of all idols. A few years later, he raised money to rebuild the Lord’s Temple.

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Overcoming Fear One Flight at a Time

The plane landed just within view of Tater. First, the plane bounced and settled down onto the grassy area next to the runway, and then drove with ease over to the fuel pumps. The fifteen-year-old class clown wasn’t laughing. Tater swallowed with a gulp as his lunch was flip-flopping in his stomach.

“Come on, it’s your turn.” Tater’s friends pushed him. Tater slowly got up and walked toward the plane. “He’s gonna puke!” a boy yelled. They all laughed. Tater couldn’t think of anything witty. Instead, he grabbed his stomach. He heard their laughter trail off as he approached the plane.

“Ready to go?” Pilot Bill asked.

“I’m not sure.” His eyes watered. “I think I ate rotten food.” He grabbed his stomach.

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Welcome! Come, Sit with Me, Jesus

How exciting to be invited! To be welcomed and wanted. How did you respond when you opened that e-vite to your friend’s birthday party or saw your name on the ‘team selected’? How about when you walked into your school’s lunchroom a few minutes late and the entire table—YES, EVERYone—was waving you …

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How a Simple Push-Start Can Change A Life

Have you ever tried push-starting a mini-bike, a scrambler, or a car with a stick shift and clutch? If so, you might understand how I felt one early morning a while back. I woke up early, anticipating a rigorous day of motorcycle riding: 675 miles to that evening’s destination, Tucumcari, …

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Blessed, Healthy, Safe August … And Forever After

YEAH “BACK-to-SCHOOL”! God’s continued blessings, wisdom, good health, safety, and PEACE this new school year! OK-ok, I get it-you may not be totally ‘thrilled’ about homework, reports, quizzes and tests. You are no doubt excited about seeing and being with your friends and neighbors again! Who are our neighbors? ________________________ …

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The First Christmas

King David had descendants, too numerous to name. One of them was Joseph, who would gain lasting fame. Joseph was engaged to a woman named Mary. God said to her one night, “My child, you shall carry.” All that Joseph wanted was to do what was right. He considered leaving …

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A Thankful Day — Give Thanks Always

I am thankful for my father and mother
Who always taught me to love one another
I am thankful for my grandfather and grandmother
Who always read great books to me.
I am thankful for my teacher, Mr. Wachowski
Who taught me that two plus two equals four, not three.
I am thankful for my brothers, Emmet and Billy
They know how to make me feel happy
I am thankful for . . .

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What Do I Wear?

Continue enjoying your refreshing, relaxing, FUN summer activities! One of your BIG questions for all your summer doings and goings may be what to wear and do. Sometimes the answer was clear: providing lunch for families @local parks-✅ swimming-✅ hiking-✅mowing lawn-✅ Other times maybe not. How about your cousin’s wedding, …

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Apple of His Eye

🍎Have you ever heard the phrase ‘ you’re the apple of my eye’? If not, be a summer detective and tell us what you discovered. He found him in a desert land, and in the howling waste of the wilderness; he encircled him, he cared for him, he kept him …

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From Where Does Our Help Come?

I will lift my eyes to the hills; where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, Maker of heaven and earth! Psalm 121:1-2 I drove through the intensely beautiful scenery of western Maine. Mountains, waterfalls, and vast spruce forests; the region thrilled my soul. I know …

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Are We Celebrating God’s Planned and True “Freedom?”

“The person God sets free is free indeed.” John 8:34-38 Jesus said, “I tell you most solemnly that anyone who chooses a life of sin is trapped in a dead-end life and is, in fact, a slave. A slave can’t come and go at will. The Son, though, has an …

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Oh, to Be in Hot Water!

Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, “Never will I leave you… Hebrews 13:5 For a week my father had noticed water from the tap was no longer piping hot. It had regressed from giving off vapor to warm to tepid to lukewarm …

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What Did You Give Dad for Father’s Day?

Listen, my child, to your father’s instruction. (Proverbs 1:8)

“Listen”! This one single word helps to prepare our minds, ears, eyes, and hearts for what’s to follow.

This single four letter word “HEAR” serve as something most important! Somewhat of an attention-getter because what coming next deserves our intentional, on-purpose focus. Teachers, coaches, leaders, and friends use this in our everyday conversations. So, we may have the tendency to do just the opposite. We may hear the attention call ‘listen’ and not do it! Today is a great day to develop your listening skills. By doing so, you gather information that will be new, interesting, fun, and helpful!

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Enjoy a Safe, Healthy, June

When you are ‘really’ REALLY upset, frightened, confused, who or what reassures, calms, or comforts you? Some of us are calmed down when we listen to music; others when we hear a familiar, trusted, and kind voice. God’s voice can be trusted. I will be with you; I will not …

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Waves of Forgiveness

“God, be merciful to me because you are loving. Because you are always ready to be merciful, wipe out all my wrongs.” Psalm 51:1 ICB Have you ever been to the beach and noticed how the waves keep crashing onto the sand? As the wind blows over the ocean, it …

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‘RUN’ after PEACE

“They must turn from evil and do good; They must seek peace and pursue it”. 1 Peter 3:11 In your games or competitions of chase, what is your true goal? To chase, run after to catch, right? Peter writes in this verse that God’s followers are to: ✅ Turn away …

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The Moon is Still There!

Three-year-old Silas pointed at the early evening sky. “Gampa! Is the Moon still there?” He saw it last night, but not today. “Should be.” We walked on. “Can you see the Moon now?” I asked.  Silas leaned around my legs, looking above the neighbor’s rooftop. He tilted his head left, …

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Powerful Words

“Careless words stab like a sword. But wise words can bring healing.” Proverbs 12:18 ICB Have you ever been stung by a bee or tasted the honey it makes? Getting stung by a bee hurts, and tasting its sweet honey is delicious! Maybe you’ve experienced both! Honey bees are hard …

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Fear-Not: Just Being Afraid

“Fearing The LORD is the start [ beginning] of wisdom and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding”. Proverbs 9:10 Why did Rahab betray her city of Jericho to the invading Israelites (Joshua 2)? Perhaps, you have read or heard of GOD giving an unusual strategy to Joshua in order …

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Made to Fly

Do you ever wake up to birds singing as they fly by your window in the morning? Robins are among the most common birds we see soaring in the sky.

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God’s Peace

🙌🏾Has GOD awakened you to the cheerful chirping of our feathered friends? Though I do not ‘speak or sing’ the birds’ language, I know it’s delightful, inspiring, and thrilling. Their songs encourage me to sing my own-loudly, joyfully, continually especially knowing my KING JESUS is alive!

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Growing Strong and Beautiful

“I will always guide you. I will satisfy your needs in a land baked by the sun. I will make you stronger. You will be like a garden that has plenty of water.” Isaiah 58:11 NIrV Have you ever seen a sunflower? Maybe you’ve seen a picture of one. Did …

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Blessed, Joyous Celebrations of Our CHRIST

E-Early one Sunday morning…an empty tomb⚰️🪓! A-Always with us now… 🌅morning, 🌑night, or 🌞noon S-Son of GOD…Yes! ✝️JESUS ✝️Himself T-Triumphant, 💪🏽victorious…even over death! E-Everlasting, ever-living…eternally R-Resurrection 💥power💥 risen 🕊REDEEMER… for you and me!   ©2024 Penelope White Use with author’s permission. Send requests to penywhite@hotmail.com Penelope Allen White is a …

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EASTER WORD SEARCH

JESUS           EASTER        ANGEL TOMB          CROSS         ROSE AGAIN STONE         THORNS     CRUCIFIXION   T E S R W S N R O H T D O B E A O Y T F X J N R M T O J E S U S Y R L C B O A …

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Continue Considering CHRIST During Lent…

Think through each day of Jesus’ final week of His earthly life. Traveling the road with JESUS during Holy Week… is fast paced, emotional, and important!  We will read and study Matthew 21 for the next two weeks to be better prepared for HOLY WEEK! As you read, write yourself a few questions and answers.

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Counting Stars

“He counts the stars and names each one. Our Lord is great and very powerful. There is no limit to what He knows.” Psalm 147:4-5 ICB Have you ever gone outside in the evening, looked up at the dark sky, and noticed the white stars twinkling above you like tiny …

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Cloud Maker

Do you know how the clouds hang in the sky? They are miracles of God, who knows everything. Job 37:16 ICB Have you ever looked up at the sky and tried to find different shapes in the clouds? If you spend time looking, sometimes you can see clouds that look …

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Choosing Friends Carefully

“Godly people are careful about the friends they choose.” Proverbs 12:26 NIrV Have you ever seen a squishy, fuzzy, cuddly caterpillar wriggling its way down a sidewalk when you’re on a walk or at the park? The creepy-crawly insects that look so cute and cuddly can be tempting to hold …

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Create In Me a Clean Heart, Lord

“Create in me a clean heart, O God…” Psalm 51:10 February begins the season of Lent, a time during which we focus on allowing God to help us prepare our hearts and identify with our LORD’s journey to the cross! This process helps us love Him more, understand and appreciate …

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Becoming Immovable

“He is strong, like a tree planted by a river. It produces fruit in season. Its leaves don’t die. Everything he does will succeed.” Psalm 1:3 ICB Wouldn’t it be awesome to live to be 200 years old? People can’t live that long, but an oak tree can! Many of …

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God’s Grace To You and Through You for All

How do you demonstrate love? Count the ways! Now that GOD’s ‘new’ has begun, we are ‘new’ in Jesus, and we will begin to learn ‘new’ ways to ❤️ the way God loves! John 15:13 says the greatest love a person can show is to die for his friends. List …

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The New You Express

You were taught  to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness. (Ephesians 4:22-24) All aboard The New …

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Holiday Crafts & Activities for Kids!

Hey there, little crafters! 🌟 The most magical time of the year is here, and what better way to celebrate than by making some festive DIY crafts and enjoying fun activities? Let’s explore creative fun using DIY kits and colorful A4 sheets! 🎨 1. DIY New Year Wish Cards 💌 …

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ADVENT In Action Week Four

JESUS – an excellent, powerful, and glorious name!

Luke 1:31 says:

“You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.”

What’s your name? Is that the name your grandma and grandpa call you? Your teachers, friends and coaches? How about uncles, aunts or neighbors?

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ADVENT In Action Week Three

On bended knee more, more and MORE…“On coming to the house, they [wise men] saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” We learned the discipline of bowing in …

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ADVENT In Action Week Two

ADVENT In Action Healthy, Safe, Peace-filled December! Advent is Going … thanks! Jesus who is king of all kings; He is God Himself ; yet, shows humility by leaving His throne, home, and Father to become a tiny, helpless, human baby during this holy season! Imagine a king doing that for you, for all …

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ADVENT In Action Week One

Advent Week One “On coming to the house, they [wise men] saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” We celebrate the coming of Jesus at Christmas, but Jesus …

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Get an Attitude of Gratitude!

Be Grateful! Distribute or design your own blank calendar templates for recording daily gratitude goals/plans to express grateful hearts. Discuss with your family and friends how these acts demonstrate a thankful heart. Be grateful! Get an attitude-gratitude! Get an Attitude of Gratitude! Goal: “Every day I will praise YOU, O …

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Find the Solution in the Thanks Tank!

“For God, Who gives seed to the farmer to plant, and later on good crops to harvest and eat, will give you more and more seed to plant and will make it grow so that you can give away more and more fruit from your harvest . . . Thanks be …

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Thankful Tree

Falling Into Gratitude “It is a good thing to give thanks to The LORD…” Psalm 92:1 Banner: “Thankful tree, falling into gratitude.” Focus: Think of 3 people or blessings for which you can be thankful. Some falls are just FUN…piles of leaves, pillows, comforters, clothes… Preschool-kindergarten Students think of 3 …

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Truth or Tricks!

The Truth we fall for JESUS-HE never LEAVES GOD has all power, wisdom, strength, might, and authority! Did you know there are some things God can’t and won’t do? YES, that’s right! He always tells the truth. One of GOD’s names is ‘Truth’. The true and living LORD is not …

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God-given Dream, Vision, and Goal(S)!

“And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions”. Joel 2:28 “I have a dream” are perhaps the most quoted and memorable …

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Stay Healthy and Safe With God’s Good Guidelines

GOD our loving, protective, all-wise, all-knowing Father establishes guidelines within His enormity of grace, freedom, and love for our benefit. He fully understands the havoc, insecurity, guilt, shame, and destruction of the consequences we will reap without His boundaries. In the perfect setting of Eden, there was a loving provision …

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We Can Soar With Christ

“My mommy says I can do anything.” The young eight-year-old girl said as she climbed up and into the aircraft with authority. She fixed the seat belt around her and looked forward, seeing only the yoke. “I can’t see!” she pouted. “Here this will help.” Jenna held her up and …

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What and Why Do You Save?

Believe in your heart. Say it with your mouth — Jesus is God’s Son; He died, rose for me! If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9 What and why do …

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Change Is In the Air

“I am The Lord and I change not” (Malachi 3:6). Change in our surroundings is evident—the long days of summer are ending. For many, a new school year is already in session! Yellow limousines are back on the roads and streets. Back-to-school sale signs are everywhere. Can you feel it? …

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Who-What Are You Looking at Now?

Who-What are you thinking about and looking at now? Keep your eyes and your mind on JESUS! “The Lord Who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.” (1 Samuel 17:37) Have you read or …

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God’s Continued Wisdom, Mercy, Grace

Why? When? Oh, how? Ecclesiastes 7: 23- “I am determined to be wise”—     but this was beyond me. Whatever exists is far off and most profound—     who can discover it? So I turned my mind to understand,     to investigate and to search out wisdom and the scheme …

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Let Me Help You With That!

Mark 15:21 states, “A certain man from Cyrene, Simon, the father of Alexander and Rufus, was passing by on his way in from the country, and they forced him to carry the cross.” Do you know the feeling of being overwhelmed, struggling to carry a heavy load, and feeling so …

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JESUS … Be Lifted Higher!

Jesus – a beautiful, powerful, and glorious name! Luke 1:31 states, “You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus.” What’s your name? Is that the name your grandma and grandpa call you? Your teachers and coaches? How about uncles and aunts? …

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FAVORites

“Can we feed the chickens?” The children had arrived at the farm, and were ready for work. First they measured a big helping of chicken feed. Then they washed out the waterer and refilled it with fresh, clean water for their feathered-friends to drink. “My favorite is that one.” One …

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Jesus is the Living Water

H2O… the way to go… to get and stay fit for GOD’s kingdom building work. JESUS is the living water. He is Who we need, yearn for, crave! He alone satisfies! When the woman at the well asked how Jesus would draw water, he answered, “Everyone who drinks this water …

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What’s Bugging You?

Summer is fast approaching, and with it comes lots of fun. Boating, swimming, camping, celebrations and family cookouts make the summertime awesome. Who doesn’t love sitting on the grass waiting for fireworks to begin after spending a happy day with family and friends? But then come the mosquitos. Biting insects, …

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Don’t Be Afraid to Fly Your Plane

“Don’t be afraid to fly the plane, Catlin.” Mike coached her gently. Catlin felt like she was always late, always wrong. Her self-esteem was low, and any nearby adult could spot it. Her parents allowed her to attend Aviation Boot Camp at the last minute when they had heard a …

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BEE like JESUS

Each week let us continue to seek GOD, pray, read, mediate, study then practice GOD’s Word by being a cheerful giver! Have you received or earned, money, supplies, games or gift cards? Do the math and decide to give at least ten percent to someone in need. Save at least …

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Thanks Be to God 

“For God, who gives seed to the farmer to plant, and later on good crops to harvest and eat, will give you more and more seed to plant and will make it grow so that you can give away more and more fruit from your harvest . . . Thanks …

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Be like Maisie

Maisie got along with everybody. She was often found standing close by her pasture buddies. Waiting patiently for her food, Maisie made sure her friends got enough to eat before she meandered over to the remaining dish.   If someone stood by the fence to say hello, Maisie made sure to …

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Advent In Action – Week 3 — On Bended Knees

Scripture reading, memorization—Matthew 2:11 “On coming to the house, they [wise men] saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” Advent In Action We learned the discipline of bowing …

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Do TREES Tell Stories?

You might know that the outer covering of a tree is called “bark.” BUT— trees do not bark like dogs! The bark of a tree is a protective “skin.” Inside the tree’s bark layer is their story. If you were to cut out a section of a tree and study …

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Is There a Doctor in the BARN?

Could a kitten be a doctor?  Can bees be teachers?  Can horses help you use your body better?  You bet! Nuzzling and stroking a kitten sends soothing messages to our brains. Watching kittens run, jump and play makes us laugh–sometimes out loud!  We want to share the funny stories with …

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Advent In Action – Week 2 — Humble Ourselves

Jesus Who is King of all kings; He is God Himself shows humility by leaving His, throne, home, Father to become a tiny, helpless, human baby during this season! Imagine a King doing that for you, for all the world! Yes, everyone! That’s what JESUS did because HE loves us! …

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Advent In Action – Week 1 — Put Your Faith In GOD to Work

We celebrate the coming of Jesus at Christmas, but Jesus is always coming to us. The heart of Jesus is to come and love us, always. Enjoy this fun way to celebrate Jesus coming to you today and everyday. We encourage kids to reproduce this Jesus Coming activity and add …

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Aviation Boot Camp—Soaring Like an Eagle

Jaxson was in a wheelchair, and he waited alone for his turn in the airplane. He wanted to fly and feel a different excitement that he hadn’t had in his life. He was ready for a life of adventure. He was coddled and often stopped from taking risks by his …

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I Can Do All Things…Including The Unicycle

I can do all this through him who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13 It all started in kindergarten when I saw the unicycle team. I thought, cool, I’m going to do that. When I became a third grader I got to fill out a form and ride a unicycle. A …

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Lucky Gets Healed

Lucky the goat had a stomach ache. There was no food in the little room where she was living. She tried to nibble the carpet. It did not taste good. One day a nice lady rescued Lucky and brought her to a farm. Lucky could hear another goat bleating in …

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Eating a Special Food on New Year’s Day?

When I was a little girl, my dad insisted that I eat at least one spoonful of black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day. It was supposed to bring good luck. I didn’t like them. Eating even a spoonful seemed like a high price to pay for good luck in the …

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First Children’s Christmas Party at the White House

by Sandra Merville Hart President John Adams and First Lady Abigail Adams didn’t have the warmest of homes at the White House in 1800. Their Pennsylvania Avenue home, built near a swamp, was drafty and cold. Large fires crackled in thirteen fireplaces to warm their home. In 1800, as Christmas …

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A Christmas Tradition: Christmas Trees

Did you know …?   A small fir tree, set on a table in a home in Latvia, a country in northern Europe, was called a Christmas tree in 1510. According to legend, Martin Luther (1483 – 1546) saw starlight peeking through the branches of fir trees on a cold …

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Twelve Days of Christmas

Twelve Days of Christmas Crossword Puzzle Puzzle Words The answers are: Partridge doves hens pipers geese swans maids birds ladies lords rings drummers Hints: Across 2. one 6. nine 7. six 9. four 10. eight 11. ten Down 1. three 3. five 4. two 5. eleven 8. twelve 12. seven …

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A Surprising Way to Celebrate Christmas and New Years in the Early 1800s

A surprising way those living in the country celebrated Christmas and New Years in the early 1800s was with Shooting and Raffling Matches. A generous person bought gifts Someone in the community bought generous amounts of Golden Bloom Coffee for Sale, tea, and other goods and wrapped them in many …

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Even Sea Turtles Praise the Lord

Have you ever heard a sea turtle praise the Lord? Well, when they do the things the Lord made them to do, that’s when they praise Him. Did you know that the Lord had a purpose in mind when He made you? Your purpose is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. One way you can do that is by telling Him just how great He is.

Click on Read More below to print and color this sheet.

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Let’s Go Shopping

Do you like to go shopping for new school clothes? How about a trip to the grocery store to pick up a box of your favorite cookies? Or the toy store, where maybe your mom or dad let you pick out something you would really like for your birthday. Each …

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Pepe the Parrot’s Predicament

Hundreds of birds lived in the trees, and they all worked together to help each other. They huddled together in the trees to stay dry when it rained. When there was little food because of the flooding in the valley, they all shared their gatherings of seeds and grain from …

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M&M Fun for Halloween

  You will need: A.      M&Ms or Skittles B.      Cup of water The small letters on M&Ms and on Skittles are actually made with an edible ink and are a little different than the hard sugar coating on the outside. Take a small, clear cup and pour water in it …

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Do You Have Your Camera?

Have you ever thought about writing a story? If so you will need a camera. I’m not talking about a real camera that takes pictures, but an imaginary camera that sits right on your shoulder and keeps an eye on your words. This pretend camera helps you see the world …

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Autumn Snack Attack

On seeds I’ll feed to meet my need; then share some seed for those in need. That’s my good deed. Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours …

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The Last Supper

The Last Supper: On the first day of a celebration called the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples asked Jesus, “Where would you like to eat the Passover feast?” Jesus told his followers to go into the city and find a man. He instructed his disciples to tell the man …

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Staying Connected

“Those who know your name will trust in you,  for you, Lord, have never forsaken those who seek you.” (Psalm 9:10) Over the Thanksgiving holiday I visited my parents. They live out in the country where there is no cable, no internet, and the cell phone reception is kind of …

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Jesus and the Man on the Roof

A few days after Jesus had touched a man who had leprosy and made him better, Jesus was going from town to town performing miracles. Everyone wanted to see Him. As Jesus entered one of the homes in Capernaum, people quickly gathered around him. There was a huge crowd. People pushed and shoved to get closer.

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Call 911 for Help . . . And Ice Cream

By Megan Breedlove And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. Ephesians 6:18 After I became a 911 police dispatcher I discovered people call 911 for all different reasons other than an emergency. One lady called demanding that an officer bring her ice …

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SOAP MAKING

The Melt and Pour Method   Supplies can be bought at craft stores. dyes fragrance blocks of clear soap Shea butter soap molds and soap cutters or small cookie cutters spray bottle of rubbing alcohol Kitchen Utensils: saran wrap, knife, glass measuring cup, microwave oven Cut off a few blocks, …

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Back Talk

“Not fair!” the kid said. “Don’t you back talk,” the dad said. Has anyone ever told you not to back talk or sass? My dad use to say, “Don’t you give me any lip.” I knew I’d better shut-up! Sassing or back talking means you’ve spoken disrespectfully to an adult. …

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Aviation Boot Camp Daredevil

James was an aviation boot camp daredevil. He wanted excitement and action. He was ready for a life of adventure whatever that meant. He imagined that the pilot could see his body rhythmically bouncing to the strong banging of his heart. His adrenaline was at full force in his small …

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Little Flowers with Super Powers

If you had sailed long ago on the Mayflower, what would you have packed for the trip? Clothes? Food? Toys? Scientists think some Mayflower passengers packed dandelions—little flowers with super powers—to grow in their New World gardens. Little Flowers with Super Powers That’s right. Those fuzzy, sunshiny flowers that pop …

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Recipe for DISASTER!

Breakfast Monkey Bread—Recipe for DISASTER! by Phoebe Leggett and Chef Samantha Your friends will think you’re a genius No longer will you be a bore. But then there is just one more worry ‘cause cooking can become your chore. What you’ll need: 3 cans buttermilk biscuits 1 stick butter 1 …

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Kool-Aid Dyed Yarn

Kool-Aid Dyed Yarn: What you need: Skeins of light colored yarn. (If it is in a center, pull skein, un-wind it and put it into a loop or loose skein.) Packets of unsweetened drink mix (Kool-Aid or other brand). Vinegar – You will need about ¼ cup per quart of …

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Moses In a Basket

Moses In a Basket—The family members of Joseph were called Israelites or Hebrews. The Israelites continued to have children until there were too many to count. Most of the Israelites lived in Egypt. There were also a lot of people called Egyptians. A new king who was called Pharaoh came …

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The Parable of the Good Samaritan

A man asked Jesus, “Teacher, what should I do so I can go to Heaven and live forever?” Jesus replied, “What is written in the Bible? What do you think?” The man answered, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart with all your soul and with all your …

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Be Bold for Jesus

Lucy was so excited! Her family would be hosting a foreign exchange student from Iran. The girl’s name was Farah, and she was sixteen. Even though they were different ages, Lucy and Farah became good friends. Farah would read to Lucy and take her to the park. The more they …

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Spiritual Eyes

In the deepest parts of the ocean there is a sea creature called the colossal squid which can grow up to 45 feet long! This squid has eyes the size of watermelons! God gave the squid large eyes so it can be on the lookout for predators. Having good eyesight …

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Anxious for Nothing

Karen’s mom asked her to do something that seemed impossible—to go next door and invite the new neighbors to church. Karen’s hand shook ask she reached for the doorbell. Meeting new people made her so nervous! But as she rang the bell, she prayed, “Dear Jesus, be with me as …

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Magnificent Birds – Large and Small

Did you know that there are more than 9,000 species of birds in the world? One of the largest species is the Andean Condor. These massive black and white birds live in South America and can weigh up to 33 pounds. Due to their weight, they have a hard time …

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Have you Heard?

McKenna leaned over to Rory in Social Studies class and whispered, “Did you know that Sarah made an F on her math test yesterday?” Rory’s eyes widened. “Really?” he said. He turned around and told the person behind him. The news spread quickly, and by the end of the day, …

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Search and Rescue—Dolphin Style!

Did you know that a dolphin only sleeps with half its brain? That’s right! Staying “half-awake” keeps dolphins safe from predators and allows them to breathe while they are sleeping. As cool as that is, there’s something even more fascinating about dolphins that you should know. Dolphins take care of …

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Growing in Gratitude

Jimmy ran to the window to see if his guests had arrived. He couldn’t wait for his birthday party to start! He helped his mom blow up balloons, then he tied them to the mailbox. As the guests arrived, Jimmy’s eyes widened when he saw the big, shiny packages that …

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Ruth

In a place called Moab there lived a nice family. Elimelech; his wife, Naomi, and their two sons had moved to Moab because there was more food in Moab. There was a famine where they used to live. After a while Elimelech died. Naomi wasn’t alone. She still had her …

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Brave Esther

Long ago, in a country called Babylon, there was a king named Achashveyrosh and a queen named Vashti. King Achashveyrosh ordered his wife the queen to appear at a party so he could show everyone how pretty she was. She refused. King Achashveyrosh was furious. Haman, one of the king’s …

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Jonah and the Whale

One day God asked Jonah to go to a place called Nineveh and tell the people living there to stop being bad. The only problem was that Jonah didn’t want to help the people there. He knew they were bad and he wanted them to be punished for their mistakes. …

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That Pesky Serpent

Everything went along well in the Garden of Eden. The weather was always lovely and sunny. Adam and Eve— for that is what Adam finally named her— tended the creatures. They played tag in the trees and ate the delicious fruits and vegetables that grew there. At night, they sat …

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Noah’s Ark

God looked at the world and saw that all the people were very bad. God decided He would wash away all the people and animals of the world with a giant flood. Now, in all the world, there was only one good person. His name was Noah. Noah had a …

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A BEAUTIFUL GARDEN WITH A SLY SNAKE GENESIS 3

Nothing can separate us from the love God has for us. Not death, not life, not angels, not ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, or anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the …

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God’s Creation, Our Home Genesis 1– 2

The sky, the earth and all that filled them were finished. On the seventh day He rested from all His work. God blessed the seventh day and made it a holy day. Genesis 2: 1– 3 In the beginning, God painted the sky and sculpted the earth. The earth was …

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Captain Stinky Foot

Once upon a time, beside the Caribbean Sea, there lived a young pirate named Stinky Foot.

Stinky Foot’s feet smelled bad. Flowers wilted when he walked by.

Stinky Foot’s feet smelled so bad that girls held their noses when he entered a room.

Stinky Foot’s feet smelled so bad that tough sailors cried, and fishermen buried their heads in bait buckets.

Stinky Foot’s feet smelled so bad that even his own mother would sometimes make him wear shoes to bed and sleep with the window open. Even in the winter!

One day Stinky Foot invited Toothless Tina to share his squid sandwich. She told him to go away and not come back until he smelled better.

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The Cure for Grumpiness

Do you ever feel grumpy? Mona the monkey was feeling that way. She didn’t want to cuddle or let her mother pick itchy bugs out of her fur. She didn’t want to play catch-me -if you-can, or jump from tree to tree by the river. Mona was a miserable grump. …

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I’ve Brought Some Corn for Popping

by Sandra Merville Hart This line from the beloved Christmas carol “Let it Snow” started me wondering when the tradition of popping corn began. People have known how to pop corn for thousands of years. Ears of popcorn were found in the Bat Cave in New Mexico that are about …

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Oh, Bring Us a Figgy Pudding

by Sandra Merville Hart We sing the familiar Christmas tune, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” every year. If those early carolers refused to leave until they received a serving, it must be delicious. When did folks originally sing this song? The song is believed to date back to England …

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What Did the Magi Eat on Their Journey?

  by Sandra Merville Hart The Bible tells us in Matthew 2:1 that Magi from the east came to Jerusalem after Jesus was born in Bethlehem. It doesn’t give an exact location. Yet northern Arabia, Syria, and Mesopotamia were considered the “east” by the Jews. What might they have eaten …

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Happy Birthday, Jesus Cake

by Sandra Merville Hart The tradition of birthday cakes for Jesus began over 500 years ago when desserts were a rare treat. Children looked forward to baking a cake to celebrate Jesus’s birthday. Moms often hid little gifts inside the batter. Children found tiny toys like marbles or even a …

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President George Washington Declares a Day of Thanksgiving

by Sandra Merville Hart The Revolutionary War was over. Leaders wrote a new United States Constitution. The nation elected its first president. Peace reigned again. New Jersey Representative Elias Boudinot asked that Congress pass a resolution to request that President George Washington declare a thanksgiving observance. Congress passed the resolution. …

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Veterans Day

Did you know … Veterans Day was originally called Armistice Day. Armistice is a big word that means two armies at war with each other agree to stop fighting, at least for a specific amount of time. November 11, 1918 World War I was known as “the Great War” until …

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Get Ready, Butterflies! Winter’s Coming!

When cold winds rattle the last leaves on the trees, we prepare for winter. We snuggle under extra blankets, slurp up warm soups, or even travel south. God helps butterflies get ready, too. In summer, monarch butterflies live just a few weeks, flitting from flower to flower to sip nectar. …

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Aviation Boot Camp

by Lori Layne Billy grasped the yoke in his hands and pushed forward slowly. The plane tilted towards the earth and began to race down. He held his breath. “Great job.” The instructor smiled and pulled the airplane back level. Tim was an Aviation Boot Camp pilot with a love …

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Columbus Day

When Christopher Columbus sailed from Spain on August 3, 1492, he planned to create a sea route to India and China. Columbus took three ships Columbus was an Italian explorer. King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, who ruled Spain, believed in Columbus’s plan to find China so he sailed west with …

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Surrounded by Fish

Mrs. Moses Diary “Then Moses stretched out his hand over the sea, and all that night the LORD drove the sea back with a strong east wind and turned it into dry land. The waters were divided, and the Israelites went through the sea on dry ground, with a wall …

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