AUGUST 12,  Proverbs 22:1

After lunch, Amanda and Jessica wanted to blow bubbles again. “Come with us, Grandma,” said Amanda as they went outdoors. Jessica blew several bubbles, then made a face. “Ugh! Yuck!” She spit and sputtered. “A soap bubble popped in my face, and I got soap in my mouth!” she exclaimed. “It tastes awful!”

Grandma smiled. “It won’t hurt you,” she said. “Just get some water and rinse your mouth out.” Jessica quickly went into the house and came back with a glass of water. Amanda laughed as Jessica rinsed her mouth several times. “Did you say some naughty words, Jessica?” teased Amanda. “I heard of a girl whose mother washed out her daughter’s mouth with soap to help her remember not to say bad things again.”

“Well, I didn’t say anything bad,” protested Jessica, “but I know someone who does. I don’t like to be around Seng Chye. He uses bad words and makes fun of other kids. I think he should have his mouth washed out with soap!”

“The bubble solution left a bad taste in your mouth, and Seng Chye apparently leaves a bad taste in your life,” suggested Grandma. “His words and actions leave a bad impression.” She looked thoughtful. “People remember what we say and do,” she added. “Can you think of things we might do that would give people a bad taste when they think of us?”

“Tell lies,” Jessica answered. “Always want to be first,” Amanda added. “Hog the ball when we play games,” said Jessica.

Grandma nodded. “The Bible teaches that we are to have a good name-a good reputation. In other words, when people think of us, they should remember good things, not bad things. So what are some things we can do to leave a good taste?”

“Help with chores and help kids with their schoolwork,” suggested Amanda. “Be friendly and kind,” said Jessica, “and obey parents and teachers.” “And share our toys and stuff,” added Amanda.

“Good,” said Grandma. “Those things will leave a very good taste in the lives of others and will help them remember us with pleasant thoughts.”

Thought: What will people remember when your name comes to their minds?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching me that I have to be a good example to those around me. And that loving words and deeds often lead to opportunities to talk to others about Jesus. Help me to live a life that will please You and help me to be brave to dare to do the right thing even if others may laugh at me. This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.