How to Shape Your WorldSample

What Happened to All the Good Things God Created?

Okay, back to the main title of this Bible Plan. Remember it? It’s called, “How to Shape Your World.” 

Yesterday, we learned that God created the world and everything in it. And He called it all good—including us. 

But then what happened? If God created a good world, how did it get so messy? 

Watch this video for a little more on that topic. 

Ugh. Today’s readings will show how “my way is better than God’s way” thoughts messed up God’s goodness. 

We chose our own way. And we still often choose our own way instead of God’s good way. We’re convinced we can shape the world better than the Creator of the Universe can. Um, that’s a sinful thought process for sure. It’s a quick trip to a distorted and messed-up place. 

Don’t fall for that trap anymore! We were created to show love to God and to others. We are called to live as children of light. We can thank Jesus for paying the price for all the sinful messes we make. We don’t have to walk in darkness anymore. 

When we see a mess around us, we can clean it up. When we see a mess that sin has made around us (hatefulness, jealousy, pride, shame, wastefulness, and so on) we can clean that up with God’s truth and light!

Ask yourself: What’s a mess I see around me that has actually been caused by sin?

Challenge yourself: This week, think of one way you can shine God’s light into the situation you thought of in the “Ask yourself” question above. And do it! Example: If you thought of someone you know who is stressed because their family is fighting a lot right now, maybe you could write them a note or check in on them somehow this week. Or if you’re struggling with something personal, you could make a plan to talk to a trusted adult about it this week.    

Pray: God, thank You for the good world You created. Thank You that even though I sometimes choose to participate in foolishness that messes up Your goodness, You still forgive me. You still help me learn to restore what You made. You still teach me how to walk as Your child of light. You’re amazing! Help me to show others how to walk in Your light, too. In Jesus’ name, amen.