Tried and True

Bible Reading: 1 Thessalonians 1:6–7; Hebrews 11:1–6

“Oh, it smells good in here,” said Presley as she and Kenna stepped into the kitchen. “Thanks for inviting me for dinner.”

“What’s cooking, Mom?” Kenna asked.

“It’s a chicken and rice casserole.” Mom lifted the cover off a crockpot. “I hope you like it, Presley.”

When Presley murmured an answer no one could understand, Kenna looked at her suspiciously. “You don’t think it sounds good!” she exclaimed. “I can tell!” She laughed. “But you’ll like it, Presley. It’s really good. Trust me!”

“Okay!” said Presley. “I believe you.” So when they began to eat, she reluctantly tried the chicken dish. “Wow! This is great!” she said. “I like it!”

As the girls played a game after dinner, they talked about their class at church. “Mrs. Hart said next week’s lesson will be on faith,” said Presley. “She said to think of ordinary ways we show faith in what people tell us. Have you thought of any?”

“No,” replied Kenna. She turned to her dad, who was reading a book. “Help us out here, Dad. What’s an everyday example of faith?”

“Well,” said Dad, “Presley, you didn’t think you’d like the casserole. So why did you try it?”

“Kenna had tried it and told me how good it was. I trust her, so I tried it too,” said Presley. “So by tasting it myself, I showed that I had faith in what she said, and I found that it was true.” She smiled. “Like my grandpa would say, it was tried and true.”

“Yes,” Dad said. “It’s often like that with faith in Jesus too. His promises of love, forgiveness, and peace have been tried and proven true. When we see and hear about how others have experienced them, it encourages us to trust Him too.”

“Like the Davis family at church,” said Kenna. “Their son Gabe is overseas with the army, and Mrs. Davis said Jesus has given her peace about it. When I see how she trusts Jesus, it helps me trust Him too.”

Dad nodded. “Jesus fulfills His promises in the life of every Christian, and when we see what He’s done for others, we know He will do the same for us.” •Gail D. Brown

How About You?

Do you have faith in Jesus? Maybe you became a Christian because you’ve seen how He’s worked in the life of a family member or friend. Do you know someone who’s going through a difficult time but still trusts God? Jesus will be with you when you face difficulties too. When you see how He loves and comforts other Christians, remember that He does the same for you. You can always trust Him.

Today’s Key Verse: 1 Thessalonians 1:6–7 You welcomed the message with joy from the Holy Spirit. As a result, you became an example to all the believers. (CSB)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus’ promises are tried and true