Warning Lights

Bible Reading: Psalm 101:1-8

Becky sat on her bed, so engrossed in her new library book that she didn’t even notice her mom enter the room. When Mom sat down next to her on the bed, Becky jumped and shoved the book under her, hoping her mom hadn’t seen the title.

Mom frowned. “You doing okay? I was just wondering why you were so quiet up here.” She peered around Becky. “What were you reading?”

Becky shot her a thin smile. “Oh nothing. Just a book I got at the library.” She blinked, trying to clear her flustered brain enough to change the subject. “So what’s going on? Did Dad finish working on the car?”

Mom folded her arms, studying Becky. After a long pause, she said, “No, he’s still trying to figure it out. The check engine light keeps flashing.”

Becky nodded. “Wow. I hope the car’s okay!”

“I’m sure it will be fine,” said Mom. “Your Dad always takes the car’s warning lights very seriously, so I’m sure he’ll be able to fix the problem before it causes too much damage.” She cleared her throat and scooted closer to her daughter. “Becky, you’re twelve, and you’re getting to the age when you’ll be making some important decisions.”

Becky swallowed and nodded.

“I’m not going to make you show me the book you’re hiding. I don’t know what it has in it that makes you feel the need to hide it. All I’m going to say is that your conscience is telling you something without me having to say a word.”

Becky studied her fingernails, and Mom sighed. “The embarrassment I see on your face is a God-given warning light, Becky. If you listen to the warning, it can prevent major problems down the road.”

Becky squirmed. As much as she hated to admit it, she knew Mom was right. She pulled the book out and let it dangle from her fingers. “I guess I’ll need a ride to the library tomorrow so I can return this,” she said, then let it slip to the floor. As the weight of the book lifted from her conscience, she smiled. “Let’s go see how Dad’s coming along on the car!” – Rebekah Love Dorris

How About You?

Has a twinge of embarrassment or unease ever made you want to hide what you were doing? God has given each of us a conscience to warn us when we’re stepping into danger. No matter how exciting it might be, if you don’t have faith that what you’re doing is right, stop immediately! You won’t regret giving up something that causes trouble later on.

Today’s Key Verse:
Romans 14:23 Whatever is not from faith is sin.

Today’s Key Thought:

If it’s doubtful, don’t do it