13 April | Teens
«Now it came to pass […] that Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon and all his army came against Jerusalem and encamped against it; and they built a siege wall against it all around.» 2 Kings 25:1
The story of Jerusalem shows us that sometimes bad things happen, and this can be a way for God to teach us important lessons. You know when you are playing and suddenly you get hurt? Or when you want something badly but cannot get it? That does not mean God is not watching over you. In fact, it is the other way around! God allows these things to show us that we can be strong and learn from every situation, even if it is difficult.
The fall of Jerusalem was a very sad moment in history. God’s people saw their city destroyed, and many were driven away from their homes. But you know, even in that difficult time, God was with them. Know that God does not promise that our life will be only happy moments and without any kind of problem. What He promises is that no matter what happens, He will be there for us, helping us get through any situation. Even in the darkest hours, if we turn to God and ask for His help, He will be ready to welcome us back and help us rebuild, just as He helped the people of Jerusalem later on.
Take Action
Pick up a card game and try to build the biggest castle possible. Whenever the cards fall, do not give up, keep trying. This will remind you that just as the people of Jerusalem had the chance to rebuild their city with God’s help, we also always have the chance to rebuild our lives with God’s help, no matter how many times we fail or face difficulties.