Chomper Trouble

Keys for Kids - daily devotions and Bible stories for kids

Bible Reading: Ephesians 5:1-7

"Why do we have to get rid of Chomper?" Owen asked his dad. "He's so much fun!"

"I know you like having a pet goat, Owen, but he's cost us quite a bundle with all the mischief he's gotten into," said Dad.

Owen knew that was true. Their two sheep just ate grass, but the goat preferred the neighbors' flowers and shrubs. He'd also eaten two apple tree saplings Dad had planted. They tried to keep Chomper tied up, but he always got loose. They penned him in, but sooner or later, the clever goat managed to get out.

"Come see what he did today," said Dad. Owen followed his dad over to where a dozen wooden boards had been pulled from the side of the toolshed. Several chewed pieces lay scattered on the ground.

"Chomper does get into trouble a lot," admitted Owen. "But he's so smart!"

"He's definitely clever," said Dad. "But that's also what gets him into trouble. Goats can be useful and a lot of fun, but they have a well-earned reputation for making life difficult for their owners."

Owen sighed. "I guess so."

As they walked toward the house, Dad spoke up. "You know, people can be a lot like Chomper--clever and a lot of fun, but always getting into trouble."

Owen bit his lip, knowing Dad was talking about him. He often got in trouble at school for disrupting class and getting other kids to go along with his antics.

"Being smart, entertaining, and outgoing are good qualities," Dad continued. "They're part of who God created you to be, Owen. But you have to be careful not to let them cause you to lead others in doing wrong things."

"I know," said Owen. "I'll work on that."

"You don't have to do it alone," Dad said. "We all do selfish things sometimes and make life difficult for those around us, but Jesus promises to help us follow His example of love. He loves us so much that He died to save us, and He'll help us use the good qualities He's given us to show that kind of love to others."

Owen smiled. "That's good, because I want to remind people of Jesus, not Chomper!"

–Lorna B. Marlowe

How About You?
Are you someone who can find clever ways to have fun--even if it means breaking the rules? Do other kids go along with you and get in trouble too? That's not the way to be an example to others or use the gifts God has given you. Jesus sacrificed His life to save us and make us God's children, and He will help you live in a way that shows others His love. Follow His example so others can see His love in your actions.
Today's Key Verse:
Live a life filled with love, following the example of Christ. He loved us and offered himself as a sacrifice for us. (NLT) (Ephesians 5:2)
Today's Key Thought:
Follow Jesus's example