You’re Never Stuck

Bible Reading: Psalm 46:1-3; Isaiah 41:10

“Look out!” yelled George. Too late! Ivan’s front wheel hit the pothole, sending his bike skidding toward the curb. “Are you okay?” asked George.

Ivan frowned. “I am, but my tire’s not!”

“You definitely need a new one!” said George.

Ivan looked away. “Well, I never told you this, but…my dad lost his job last month, so I’m not sure we can afford a new one.” He sighed. “He’s been pretty down lately, so I don’t even want to ask.”

George nodded sympathetically. “I’m glad you told me. You know, we’re not too far from my house. Let’s ask my dad to look at your bike. He’s good at fixing things.”

The boys walked their bikes two blocks and turned the corner to see George’s dad wiping his newly washed car. He waved at them, but his smile changed to concern. “What happened?”

“Ivan hit a pothole, and he doesn’t know if his dad will be able to fix his tire.”

Dad examined the damage. “All you need is a patch. I’ll get my tools.”

While he worked on the bicycle, he asked, “How are your parents, Ivan? I haven’t seen them lately.”

“Actually…I just told George that my dad’s out of work. He doesn’t like to go out much these days. He even missed church last week.”

Dad shook his head. “I’m sorry, Ivan. You know, sometimes potholes show up in life too—not just in the middle of the road. I can understand your dad’s disappointment. We all stumble into pitfalls occasionally, but we’re never stuck. Jesus is still with us down there, and He can lift us out. One way He does that is by putting other Christians in our lives to help and encourage us.”

George said, “I’m going inside for a minute.”

A little later, George ran back and said, “I asked Mom to call and invite Ivan’s parents to join us at church tomorrow, and they said yes! She even convinced them to come over for lunch!”

Ivan’s face lit up. “Awesome!”

Wheeling the bike to Ivan, Dad said, “You’re ready to roll. Let us know if there’s anything else we can do to help.”

“Thanks,” Ivan said. “You already have!” Elena Dee

How About You?

Do you know someone who is facing difficulties? Maybe you’re the one going through a hard time right now. There can be potholes in the road of life, but Jesus promises to help us through each one. One way He does that is through other Christians. If you’re going through a hard time, who can you reach out to for help and encouragement? What can you do to help others in difficult situations?

Today’s Key Verse:
Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. (NKJV)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus helps us through hardship