Regardless of how much you love your friend, sometimes they will do something that disappoints you. But there is one who will never forget you. He will always be ready to listen when you pray. And His name is Jesus. Jesus is always our friend. The Bible is God's book. It tells us how to be friends by loving one another.
Let us bow our heads as we ask God to help us be a good friend. (Carolyn Ross Tomlin)
What Makes You Happy?
Object: Draw a happy face and a sad face on two paper plates.
Scripture: Psalm 144:15
Boys and girls, do you know what it means to be happy? (Pause for response.) The dictionary says it is to have joy, well-being, to be satisfied or pleased. Can someone tell me how they feel when they are happy? What is the difference between being happy and being sad? (Hold up faces drawn on the plates. Pause for response.)
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Think about some things that make boys and girls happy. Could it be a new toy? What about a new bike? Expensive clothes? These are material things, and the Bible says they do not really bring happiness -- they only last for a short time. What about not having to do any chores at home? No, being part of a family carries a responsibility. Never having to do homework? Just like your parents go to work, school and preparing for your future is your job; you won't find happiness without it.
God says that true happiness comes from putting Him first in your life, placing the needs of others second, and putting yourself last.
Another way to find happiness is keeping God's laws. Psalm 144:15 says, "...Blessed are the people whose God is the Lord." When we follow God's commandments and do what we know is right, we will be happy. This type of happiness comes from within. It is a feeling that lights up our lives. When we have the love of God in our heart, we want to share it with others.
This week, make a list of ways you can show happiness to others. Think of ways you can please God. And you know something? I believe you will have found the secret of happiness!
Let's pray that God will help each boy and girl find the true happiness in their lives that comes only through knowing Jesus Christ as their Savior.