Shining Stars

Bible Reading: Philippians 2:14–16; 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

“It’s hot out here!” Maria whined as she climbed up the grassy hill on their family campout.

“Calm down, Maria,” her mom replied, “we’re almost to the campsite.”

“My feet hurt, and I’m thirsty. I’m so hungry I could eat a horse!” Maria complained loudly.

“Whoa! I’d like to see that!” her brother, Carlos, said with a laugh.

Soon the Hernandez family reached their campsite after a full day of exploration. They enjoyed cooking dinner over the fire, except Maria protested that her hot dog was burnt. After their meal, it grew dark, and they began to gaze at the sky in hopes of seeing some beautiful stars.

“Aw, man! I don’t see anything! There’s not a star in the sky!” Maria crossed her arms and frowned.

“Oh, they’re there,” said Dad. “We just can’t see them tonight because the clouds are blocking our view.”

“Well, that stinks. So much for stargazing.” Maria kicked the twigs under her feet and then stomped to her tent to grumble some more.

“Maria,” her mom called out, “it seems like you might have a cloud over your head.”

“What do you mean?” Maria turned around to face her mother.

“There seems to be a complaining cloud that is blocking you from shining joy. Did you know that in the Bible, the book of Philippians talks about how we can shine the brightest? It says to do everything without complaining or arguing so we can shine like stars in the world. When we whine and complain, we don’t shine with the joy that comes from knowing Jesus and having eternal life with Him,” Mom explained.

Maria sighed. “I guess I haven’t been the most joyous person today.”

“You can say that again!” said Carlos.

“Okay, okay.” Maria rolled her eyes at her younger brother. “I’m sorry. And I guess I haven’t been that much fun to be around either.”

Dad stood up and gave her a hug. “There’s always tomorrow, my shining star. Just remember the joy you have in Jesus and shine for Him.”

“Okay,” said Maria. “I think I’ll head to bed and start again tomorrow. I think the forecast is calling for clear skies!” •Emily Rudolph

How About You?

Do you complain about things you don’t like? Do you whine about homework or having to wake up early or clean your room? When you complain, you don’t let the joy you have in Jesus shine as brightly to those around you. Even when you have to do things you don’t like, remember what Jesus has done for you and trust Him to give you a joyful heart, no matter what the circumstance. Let your light shine!

Today’s Key Verse:
Philippians 2:14 Do everything without complaining or arguing. (ERV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Don’t whine, Just shine