God Made You to Be YouSample

DAY 2: Up, Around, and Out

We’ve all had days when we’re feeling down in the dumps, or as Sammy the cactus would say, we feel “sticky stuck.” Maybe something went wrong or simply didn’t go the way we had planned. And the thing is, it’s okay to feel upset and let down. In fact, we need to feel our feelings, and we need to spend time figuring out why we feel the way we do. But then we also need to do a few things with them: 

First, look up to God. We tell God our troubles, our sorrows, all the reasons we have for feeling blue. It’s what He invites us to do (1 Peter 5:7). And yes, it’s true that He already knows—and understands much better than we ourselves do—but there’s something about verbalizing our troubles to Him that helps us break free from them. 

Next, turn around. Yes, in an actual circle. Sure, it might feel a little silly, but spin around anyway. As you turn, look for all the things that are good and right in your life (Philippians 4:8), and thank God for each of them. Gratitude helps us remember our blessings and Who’s really in charge. 

Finally, reach out. Find someone who could use a little encouragement or a helping hand. Make their load a little lighter, and give them a reason to smile. Reaching out not only takes our thoughts off our own situation, it lets us make a positive difference in this world. 

For the Kids: Getting Up from Feeling Down

In God Made You to Be You, Sammy was feeling pretty down in the dumps. But, with some help from his friends, he began to see all the different ways he was helping others. And that made Sammy happy again! When you’re feeling down in the dumps, try “Up, Around, and Out” to help you feel like smiling again.  

• First, look up to God and tell Him all about your feelings. What would you say to Him?  
• Next, turn around. (Literally, turn in a circle.) How many good and wonderful things do you see? Five? Ten? Two hundred twenty? Thank God for every one!   
• Then, reach out and help someone else. Who can you make smile today?