A Much-Needed Push

Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 5:11-15; Hebrews 10:24-25

Lydia and Nick helped their dad load groceries into the car. “I hope it stops snowing soon,” Nick said as he closed the trunk. Hearing the sound of spinning tires, he looked around the snow-covered parking lot. A few rows over, a car was having trouble moving.

“Let’s give that driver a hand,” Dad said, and the three of them walked over to the car. The driver rolled down the window. “I don’t think you’re stuck too bad,” Dad said. “We’ll give you a push.” The man stepped on the gas as they pushed, and the car moved slowly ahead. With a grateful wave, the driver was on his way.

As they walked back to their car, Nick had a thought. “My teacher at church said that sometimes people get stuck in life. Like, they try and try to solve some problem but just spin their wheels, or they don’t see that their actions are taking them in the wrong direction of where they need to go. They need help.”

Dad nodded. “I guess we all have times when we need a little push in the right direction,” he said as they got in their car and headed home. “And sometimes the way God helps us is by having someone give us the push we need—and He also uses us to help others. Can you think of some ways we could help people who are stuck?”

Nick smiled. “Besides giving them a shove when they’re stuck in the snow?”

“I know!” said Lydia. “You gave me a push when you helped me with my homework the other day, Nick.”

“Good,” said Dad, “and Lydia, you gave me a push when you told me your friend’s parents enjoyed the class at church I’m teaching. It was very encouraging to hear that.” He turned the car into their driveway. “And Mom gave both of you a push when she made you take a timeout from fighting yesterday.”

“Yeah,” said Nick. “I guess that was a push in the right direction, even though we didn’t like it very much!”

Dad nodded. “Let’s remember that God puts other Christians in our lives so we can encourage each other and show each other the love of Jesus.” – Glenn G. Luscher

How About You?

Has someone given you a push when you were stuck or headed in the wrong direction? Jesus wants you to grow strong in your faith, and one of the ways He makes you grow is by putting people in your life who help and encourage you. As you grow stronger, He’ll show you ways you can help and encourage others in their faith. Ask Him to show you how you can help someone today!

Today’s Key Verse:
1 Thessalonians 5:11 So encourage each other and help each other grow stronger in faith. (ERV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Help and encourage others