The Dr. Seuss Quote for us to think about today is . . . "Don't cry because it is over - Smile because it happened!" As you go through this day, take a moment to keep in mind, as we go through life, there will be times we rejoice and times when we wonder what is happening. The important thing to remember is God knows what is going on - even when we do not. Jeremiah 29:11 says, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" We need to remember how important it is for us to have an attitude of thankfulness and joy at all times . . . I Thessalonians 5:16-18 - "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." When we experience something wonderful, be thankful! Rejoice and then look forward to the next part of God's plan for your life and how you can give joy to others!
Be sure to point these things out to the children in your ministry, too! Have children get into small groups and spend time talking about a time when they had such a great time they didn't ever want it to end. Then challenge them to come up with a service project they could do for someone else to brighten their day . . . maybe they could plant flowers for a shut in or make soup to take to a person who hasn't been feeling well. Perhaps they could make encouragement cards for their pastor or sell cookies to buy toys for children in homeless shelters. After they make their plans to brighten someone else's day, have their small group shepherds pray for each child by name - "Thank You God for creating ____! Please help him/her know You have plans for him/her! Please help him/her choose to be joyful always, pray continually and give thanks in all things!"
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