Real Winners

Bible Reading: Philippians 2:1-4; 1 Thessalonians 5:11-14

Counselor Gary stood in front of a large group of wiggly campers. “Have you had a good time at camp this week?” he hollered.

“Yes!” the campers yelled back. Brayden’s voice was a little louder than the others. This was his first time at church camp and he’d had a blast.

“Today is our last day of competitions,” Counselor Gary continued. “As you know, those of you with a gold star in any category will receive a special award at tonight’s service when your parents are here. So do your best and have fun!”

Brayden nodded. He just needed to win one more event to get a gold star.

“You’ll work with a buddy this afternoon, and I’ve posted the list showing your event and your buddy,” said Counselor Gary, pointing to a bulletin board.

The group was dismissed, and Brayden went to look at the list. “Oh no!” he groaned. He went to his counselor. “I need to win one more sporting event, but I’m paired with Nick for the three-legged race,” Brayden told him. “He hasn’t won a single event all week. Can’t I be with someone else? He’s going to make me lose.”

“Or maybe you’ll help him win for a change,” Counselor Gary said. “Remember what we talked about in chapel yesterday? All people who trust in Jesus are God’s children. We need to support one another and help each other out. I think we can apply that principle to sports too, don’t you?”

Brayden sighed. “Okay,” he said.

That afternoon when the boys were at the starting line, Brayden grinned at his buddy. “We can do this,” he said. “Just keep your arm around me like this so we can move our tied legs like one. Okay?” Nick nodded, looking more confident than he’d been all week.

The race began, and the two tried their best. Brayden’s heart sank when they came in second. Then he heard Nick yell, “Oh man! We’re second! I’ve never done so good in my life. Thanks, Brayden! I couldn’t have done it without you.”

That night when Brayden heard Nick excitedly tell his parents about the race, he felt like a real winner even though he didn’t receive the prize he’d hoped for. (Sarah Reeves)

How About You?

Have you ever left other kids out of a game because you thought they would slow you down? Do you get annoyed when others can’t do things that come easily to you? We all have different abilities, but they’re not just for our own benefit. We need to use them to help others who are struggling and encourage them, especially other Christians. Who could you offer encouragement to? You might find they can encourage you too!

Today’s Key Verse:
1 Thessalonians 5:11 So encourage each other and build each other up,
just as you are already doing.(NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Help other Christians