The Bully

Bible Reading: 1 SAMUEL 17:42-50

Kage knelt behind a teacher’s car in the school parking lot. The morning bell had rung and he knew he would be late, but he didn’t care. Julian is late so much, he thought, and he won’t tell me why. I’m going to see if I can find out.

As Kage’s eyes searched the playground, he saw what he was looking for. An eighth grader had Julian by the shoulder and was saying something. He shoved Julian against the wall and threatened him with his fist.

“That big bully!” sputtered Kage softly. He pulled his phone out of his pocket and put it in video mode just in time to get a shot of Julian reluctantly dropping some money into the boy’s outstretched hand. The bigger boy shoved Julian again and took off.

As Julian slowly headed toward the school door, Kage ran to catch up. “Hey, what are you doing here?” asked Julian in amazement.

“I saw that bully!” Kage replied. “And how he made you give him your money! Who is that kid anyway?”

Julian looked at the ground. “His name is Owen, and he’ll hurt me really bad if I tell anybody.”

“Well, you don’t have to tell. I will.” Kage held up his phone. “I got a video of him bullying you, and I’m going to show it to the principal.” He started walking toward the school building.

“Wait!” called Julian. “Aren’t you afraid Owen will get you? He’s so mean and scary when he gets mad!”

“Mrs. Prince won’t put up with bullying,” Kage told him. “She’ll contact his parents, and we’ll tell a bunch of other kids too. If Mr. Bully knows we won’t keep quiet about it and that everybody is against him, I don’t think I’ll have to worry. And besides…” Kage hesitated. “Remember the Bible story of David and Goliath?”

“Yeah, I remember the story,” Julian replied.

“That giant was one big bully, but God was with David and helped him fight against Goliath so he couldn’t hurt people anymore.” Kage grinned. “I know Jesus will help me stand up against bullies too.” MARY M. IHLENFELDT

How About You?

Is there bullying going on at your school? Have you talked to your parents, teachers, or principal about
it? Whether it happens in person or online, bullying is a serious problem that hurts people deeply. It’s important to tell an adult if you experience it or see it going on so they can help stop it. And remember, you won’t be fighting it alone—Jesus will be with you. Show others His love by taking a stand against bullying.

Today’s Key Verse:
JOSHUA 1:9 BE STRONG AND COURAGEOUS! DO NOT BE AFRAID OR DISCOURAGED. FOR THE LORD YOUR GOD IS WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Stand against bullies.