Faith Like a Sprinkler

Read: Isaiah 41:10; Matthew 6:26-27; Philippians 4:6-7 “I’m worried I’m not going to pass my math test!” Clara told her dad as they walked barefoot in the grassy yard after dinner. “You’ve been studying and doing math problems for weeks, Clara,” Dad said. “I’m sure you’ll pass.” “But I’m not going to be good enough. I just know it!” Clara looked up and wished she was one of the birds soaring overhead. They didn’t look worried at all. “Hmmm.” Dad pulled open the door to their shed, which let out a metal squawk, and poked his head inside. “I might have something…” His voice trailed off as he stepped inside. He reappeared seconds later holding a rusty sprinkler. Clara crossed her arms. “Is this a joke?” “No,” said Dad. “It’s a quiz. Does this sprinkler have water in it?” Clara shook her head. “It’s not even connected to the hose!” “Passed the first question!” Dad said, smiling. “Is this sprinkler empty?” “Yeah,” Clara said, uncertain how this was supposed to help. “Guess we should just throw it out then, huh? No good anymore.” “Dad, it’s a sprinkler! It’s supposed to be empty until the water’s turned on!” “Exactly.” Dad sank into the sun-dappled grass and handed Clara the sprinkler. “We’re a lot like sprinklers. A sprinkler doesn’t worry it’s not good enough to do its job. It’s not afraid to be empty. When it’s connected to the hose, the water’s power flows through it. It’s the same with us. Because we have faith in Jesus, we’re always connected to Him through the Holy Spirit, and His power flows through us. He’ll give us the strength we need to do the things He wants us to do.” “So He’ll help me pass my math test?” Clara asked. “Well, I can’t promise you that, but you don’t have to worry about it. He wants you to pray about your math test and then do the best you can. Trust Him with the results, no matter what they are.” “I didn’t know He cared about stuff like that,” Clara said. “Absolutely He cares! He even cares about the birds.” Dad pointed to the birds flying above them. “But you’re far more important to Him.” Clara thought about that. “Dad, can we pray?” –Pearl Allard How about you? Are you worried about something right now? Maybe you have a test coming up at school or you’re trying out for a sports team. Whatever it is, have you prayed about it? Jesus loves you and cares about all the details of your life. Instead of worrying, He wants you to pray about what’s bothering you. Then trust Him to give you strength and be with you, and leave the results in His hands. Today's key verse: Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Philippians 4:6 (NLT) Today's key thought: Pray instead of worry