Daily Devotional for February 8, 2023
One Chapter
Thoughts churned inside Diego as he trudged alongside his grandparents, who had prepared a picnic to share on the beach. Usually he adored picnics, but not today.
If only Papa could find a job, he thought, swallowing back the tears. Then he and Mama would stop arguing. If only I didn’t grow so fast and keep needing new clothes and shoes.
“Diego, you and Grandpa go walk and have a chat,” Grandma said, placing a blanket on the sand. “I’ll read and take care of our food until you return.”
Diego and Grandpa said nothing for a while as the waves lapped in and out. Finally Grandpa spoke, breaking the silence. “You’re worried about your parents, aren’t you?”
Diego nodded, wiping away a tear. “What if Papa never finds a job and we become homeless? I feel so helpless. I pray, but God feels far away at the moment.”
“Oh, Diego, our loving God is always near,” Grandpa said, hugging him. “Jesus loves you so much He died for you, and He promises to always be with you and help you through hard times. Place all your worries in His hands, and He will give you strength. You will survive this. You’ll see. We won’t allow you to become homeless. Now let’s enjoy this family time we’ve been blessed with.”
The sun glistened on the sea as they walked back. Grandma looked up and smiled when she saw them. “This book is so exciting! There’s one challenge after another for the heroine, and I couldn’t put it down. I’m desperate to find out what happens next.”
Grandpa gave Diego a nudge. “You see? It’s not the end. Life is like Grandma’s novel, a series of chapters with lows and highs. Through it all, we can always trust Jesus, who walks with us in life. What you’re going through is a difficult chapter, but it isn’t your whole life. It’s a part of it that God will use to help you know Him better, and one day you will pass through it.” Grandpa sat down on the blanket. “Come on, let’s pray so we can eat.”
After they prayed, Diego’s heart felt lighter. As he ate Grandma’s delicious food, he thought about how this difficult time was just one chapter of his life, and hope and strength filled his heart.
-Cindy Lee
How about you?
Are you experiencing a tough situation in your life? Perhaps you’re worried about a family separation, moving, finances, sickness, or something else. Remember that this is a chapter in your life and that you are not alone. In hard times, Jesus is always with us and gives us His peace and strength. Trust Him to help you through this difficult chapter.
Thank you for reading this Keys for Kids devotional! Did you enjoy the story? Has Keys for Kids been an encouragement to you and your family? If so, would you please consider supporting Keys For Kids Ministries in our effort to continue to provide these daily devotionals to children around the world?