AUGUST 1

Exodus 4:11

As Emily and Nina started home, they ran into Weng Leong – a school bully. “Hey, Nina, where did you get this red bag?” asked Weng Leong as he grabbed the bag and tossed it down on the sidewalk. Nina stared blankly at him. “Stop that!” commanded Emily, darting toward the bag. She returned it to Nina. “You leave her alone,” ordered Emily, glaring at Weng Leong.

Weng Leong walked away, grinning broadly. When the girls reached Nina’s house, she smiled at Emily. “Want to walk to school together tomorrow?” she asked.

“Sure,” said Emily, and she hurried on to her own home. “What’s up?” asked Mom when she saw the expression on Emily’s face.

“I’m just thinking about Nina,” said Emily glumly. She plopped down onto the couch. “She’s not very smart, and some of the kids tease her.” She sighed. “Why did God create some people with problems like hers? Did he make a mistake?”

“A mistake?” echoed Mom.“Well… it doesn’t seem like life can be much fun for her,” said Emily. “She has to work so hard to learn even simple things.”

“Yes, she does,” agreed Mom, “and because of that, Nina’s parents are extremely proud of all she can do. Nina is the joy of their lives.”

“Yes, but…” Emily paused. “Think of her,” she added. “She can’t be having much fun.”

“I am thinking of Nina,” said Mom. “Her mom tells me how much Nina looks forward to going to school each day. She’s so easily pleased and proudly shows her colouring papers to everyone. Nina is a happy girl who loves all the kids, and I’m glad to tell you that she often talks about you being her friend Emily.”

“Really?” asked Emily in surprise. Mom nodded. “Always remember that God has made each one of us, and He has a purpose for all He does,” said Mom. “Even if we don’t understand His purpose, we can be sure He knows what He’s doing. God never makes a mistake.”

Thought: God never makes mistakes.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me never to think that Thou may be mistaken in allowing what happens in my life. Help me to really trust and always go to Thee for help. This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.