AUGUST 7

Philippians 2:14

“Hey, Shelly! Don’t forget to get the wastebasket from my room,” said Tony as he opened the door to go out.

Shelly scowled at him. “I hate taking out the trash,” she complained. She turned to her mother. “Tony always gets the easy stuff to do, while I have to tramp around the house collecting smelly old garbage.”

“You chose that job for this month,” Mom reminded her. “You said you were tired of dusting and folding laundry and that Tony always got the easy jobs-like emptying the trash.” Shelly muttered to herself as she left to start collecting wastebaskets.

A little later, the back door squeaked loudly as Tony pushed it open and came back in. “That squeaky door is driving me crazy,” grumbled Shelly crossly. “Quit going in and out, Tony.”

Tony only grinned and turned back toward the door. “I think I left something outside,” he teased. “I’ll be back in a minute.” He swung the door back and forth.

“Mom, make him stop!” whined Shelly, covering her ears. “Enough, Tony,” said Mom. “Quit teasing.” Just then Dad opened the squeaky door and came in. “I guess it’s about time for me to oil those hinges,” he said. “They’re complaining pretty loudly.” He paused, then smiled. “Remember the Bible verses we read in family devotion last night?” he asked. “The ones about the Israelites after they left Egypt? They complained a lot-like this screen door does.”

“Okay… sorry for grumbling. Now… who has trash they would like me to get rid of? I’m… ah… glad to be at your service!” Tony clapped, and Mom and Dad both smiled. “Good for you!” said Mom, putting an arm around Shelly’s shoulder.

Thought: Do you complain about things you’re asked to do?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I be a helpful child. Instead of murmuring, may I praise You for all You have done for me. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.