FEBRUARY 13, Psalm 62:8 

When Jared slammed his bedroom door so hard that the walls shook, Mother knew something was wrong. She found him sitting on the edge of his bed crying. “What’s the trouble, son?” she asked gently as she sat down beside him.
Jared sniffed. “Well... I had a rotten day,” he told her. “I got a ‘D’ on my English test–the one I spent an hour studying for. And I could not make it to the school basketball team. Not even the reserve!
“Well, honey, I’m sorry you’ve had a tough time,” said Mother putting her hand on his shoulder. “Tell you what... I’ll help you study for your next test. English was my favorite subject, so we’ll see if we can bring that grade up. As for your basketball, you practise hard and try your best again the next time.”
As Mother sat there, Jared told her about other problems he was having at school, especially in gym class. “I’m just not good at that stuff,” he said. Mother encouraged him to do his best, and he felt better after talking with her.

Before climbing into bed, Jared began to say the little rhyme prayer he had learned when he was small, but it seemed so empty–he was too big for that. But what should I say instead? he wondered. As he thought over the events of the day, he remembered his mother’s concern for him. She really loved him and was interested in what went on, and she had reminded him that God cared for him, too. I guess I can talk to God just like I talk to Mom! thought Jared.

Before he knew it, Jared was talking to God–telling Him about the day. He told God about his bad grade, the basketball, and the guys in gym. He asked God to help him do better in basketball and with his schoolwork. He thanked God for parents who loved and cared for him, and he thanked God for His care, too. After Jared finished praying, he felt much better. He decided to talk with God more often!

Thought: Are there times when you’re not sure what to pray about? Do you ever feel as though praying won’t help anything? Just remember that God cares for you, and you can talk to Him as you would to your parents or to your closest friend. God has the power to help you in all areas of your life.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I learn to speak to You more often, and to trust in You at all times. As I pour out my heart before You, You will hear and deliver. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.