The Arms of Jesus

Bible Reading: Psalm 118:5-8, 14

“Uncle Rob and Aunt Jen are here!” Juliana called when the doorbell rang. She went to let them in. “Hey there, Joey. What have you got?” asked Juliana when she saw that little Joey had brought a toy with him.

“My new jet. Look!” Joey held it out, laughing, but his laughter quickly turned into a cry of fear when Juliana’s dog, Barkley, came running toward them. Joey hid behind his father and screamed. The rest of the family came running to see what was wrong.

“Barkley won’t hurt you,” said Juliana, trying to get Joey to come back. “Look—he’s real gentle. See, Joey?”

Uncle Rob soothed Joey as he hoisted him into his arms. “Joey, look. He won’t hurt you,” Uncle Rob said. He bent down and began to pet the dog. After a few moments, Joey turned to look and finally reached out to touch the dog too. His tears turned into a smile when Barkley gently licked his hand. But he objected when Uncle Rob started to set him back down on the floor.

Juliana’s mother smiled at Joey. “I see you’ve found a nice, safe place to be. Barkley isn’t nearly so scary when you’re in your daddy’s arms, is he?” Joey shook his head.

Uncle Rob smiled. “You’re safe with me, kiddo,” he said. “Wouldn’t it be nice if all of us could feel that safe all the time?”

“Yeah!” said Juliana. “So many kids in my class have been scared lately. My teacher says that’s natural because it’s a scary world.”

“Yes, but remember that everyone who trusts in Jesus is in His arms,” said Dad. “Remember your Bible verse from last week?”

Juliana nodded. “‘The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.’”

Dad nodded. “This may be a scary world, but Jesus promises to keep His arms around us. Even though we can’t hide away and be shielded from everything, we know we have eternal life with Jesus and that nothing can happen to us unless it’s God’s will. With Jesus we’re safe, no matter what happens.” Karen Locklear

How About You?

Does news of war and terrorism make you afraid? Do reports of earthquakes, floods, and out-of-control fires scare you? The news is often frightening, and this can seem like a very scary world. If you know Jesus, remember that you have eternal life with Him and nothing can happen without His permission. Trust Him to take care of you, and thank Him for His everlasting arms that hold you and keep you safe.

Today’s Key Verse:
Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms. (NKVJ)

Today’s Key Thought:

Trust Jesus to care for you