MAY 15, Ephesians 5:20

Chris was very nervous. It was his very first day at the new school, and he didn’t know anyone! “Lord, help me make a new friend!” he prayed silently as he walked down the unfamiliar hallway to his class.

Some of the boys and girls in Chris’ class smiled at him, but hardly anyone talked to him. By recess time, he was very discouraged. The teacher showed him where to pay for his food and pointed out the section of tables reserved for students his age. Chris sat down and looked around at the other boys and girls. They all seemed to know one another. Laughter and conversation went on all around him.

Then Chris noticed something. One boy was praying! Right there in the cafeteria, he had bowed his head and closed his eyes and was praying. He must be a Christian, thought Chris. Getting up, he took his tray and went to sit next to the boy. “Hi. I’m Chris,” he said. “I... ah... I’m new here, but I thought maybe... ah... were you praying just now?”

The boy nodded. “Yes, I was,” he said. He looked at Chris, then added hesitantly, “I was giving thanks for my food. I’m a Christian.”

“So am I!” exclaimed Chris. “We just moved to town, and I don’t really know any kids yet. I... I’ve been praying that the Lord would help me meet a new friend.”

“Wow! That’s great!” The boy grinned at Chris. “My name is Jason, and there are some other Christian kids around, too. You’ll like it here.”

Silently, Chris prayed, “Thank You, Lord. Thank You for helping me meet Jason.”

Thought: Are you thankful to God for the many blessings that He has bestowed upon you? If you are, you should acknowledge God by giving thanks to Him. There are many things you ought to thank God for. You can thank God for His protection and provision of all your needs. You can especially thank God for saving you and giving you a place in heaven.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for saving me and giving me a hope and a future. Help me remember to give thanks to You for the many blessings that you have brought into my life. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.