Loved & Cherished: A 5-Day Devotional for GirlsНамуна

 WE ARE FAMILY!

My family stinks! I love my family! Have you ever thought or said both of these phrases within a short period of time? I sure have. When we were doing some- thing fun and my parents were in a good mood, I loved being in my family. When I fought with a brother or sister, had to do chores, or my parents yelled at me, I wanted out. 

No matter the family we are born into, the Bible says that because we are adopted as God’s kids we have a bigger family than the one we live with every day. This makes life better when we feel like people in our own family aren’t that great or are so involved in their own problems, they seem like they’ve forgotten about us, doesn’t it? 

When someone adopts you, it legally means you are theirs forever. The cool thing about being adopted by God is that He is a perfect parent and can do more than our earthly parents ever could. He is always available, never distracted, ready to listen, always patient and gentle with us . . . even if we are having the worst day ever. 

The next time you get in trouble or are alone and wish your family loved you more or was more like someone else’s, turn to God, your forever parent. Tell Him about it. He will be there ready and listening. You are His kid and He cares about you and what’s happening in your life and family. Some families are amazing and some are really hard to live with. I get it. So does He. 

Also, I want to challenge you to find another grown-up to talk to when life is hard and your parents may be busy. When I taught school and worked as a school counselor, I got to listen to lots of kids’ problems. God often uses people who are part of His huge family to provide the love, attention, and encouragement each one of us longs for every day. 

Living Cherished

Make a list of three grown-ups you can talk to if you need help. 

Talking with God

Father, thanks for making me part of Your huge family. Help me to remember that even when no one else seems to care, You are listening. In Jesus’ name, amen.