Encouragement From the Bible

Treasure Text: “Your word is a lamp to my feet, a light on my path. . . . Your statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart” (Psalm 119:105-111, NIV).

It was nearly time for Gemma to pack her bags and fly back home. She had enjoyed spending time with Grandma and finding treasures in the Bible. She was going to miss having Grandma to talk to. Grandma reminded her that the treasures that they had found were now in their hearts, so Gemma was going to take them home with her. Gemma had her own Bible and she knew that Mommy and Daddy would help her find more treasures.

When we feel a bit lost and unsure of how to stay connected with Jesus, we can trust God’s Word. The Bible is like a light or a torch to show how to keep living the way Jesus wants us to.

Grandma explained that this world isn’t our forever home. We are all looking forward to going home to heaven. The closer this time comes, however, the more people will refuse to love God and follow Jesus. Without Bible treasures in their hearts they will find it harder to be kind to each other and help each other. The world is going to be a tough place to live in.

Jesus said that He is “light,” and that He is “the way, and the truth, and the life” (John 14:6, NIV). Being connected to Jesus through Bible reading and prayer will keep our love for Jesus strong. We do not need to worry about our life. The real treasure of the Bible is that Jesus loves us. Matthew 6:33 tells us to, “seek first his kingdom, and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well” (NIV)

Gemma remembered the story about a wise man who built his house on rock, and a foolish man who built it on sand. When the floods came, only the house on the rock stood firm. Jesus said that the wise man had heard His words and put them into practice. Many people hear about Jesus and His love, but not many people accept this love and love Jesus enough to trust Him and live for Him.

Grandma told Gemma that Jesus wanted her to share His love and do good things for other people: “Let your light so shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:16, NIV). It is so exciting to be God’s light and hope for people.

“Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” (Ephesians 5:1, NIV).

Let’s Talk
What eight treasures did we learn about this week?

Let’s Pray
Ask Jesus for a deep understanding of His love for us.

Let’s Make
Make a Bible bookmark. Write on it your favorite treasure text from this week. Decorate it with pictures or stickers. Tie on some pretty ribbon to hang below the Bible page you are reading.