Consider

That means to think carefully. Study and notice things. Learn something. If I pick up a book and flip through the pages, am I considering it? No. I have to read it and think about what it is saying. How about you? When you see a spider’s web, do you say “yuk!” or do you stop to notice the wonderful details in God’s creation? When you don’t feel like working, do you give in to your feelings? Or do you consider what happens to lazy people and decide to be responsible and work anyway?

The Bible says to “Consider one another.”* (Hebrews 10:24) A considerate person takes time to think about the people around them. How can I make them happy? What can I do to be helpful? Maybe you think that your family doesn’t need anything. Or maybe, like the story of Jesse, you don’t think you can do anything to help. You better become a detective and use your eyes and ears to start noticing things! How about the stack of dishes in the sink when everyone else is busy? The considerate person thinks “Here is my chance to help!” And when little brother or sister begins to fuss, you will think, “Why are they upset? Are they too hot or tired? Do they want to be left alone?” There are clues everywhere if you will just take a moment to consider. And just think! If everyone is being considerate of everyone else, how happily we will all get along together!

Best of all, God considers us. He sees when we are hurting or afraid, and He wants to comfort us. He sees all our troubles, and notices when we need something, and He wants to help us and supply all our needs. Just think about the great Father in Heaven, the King of the Universe, considering each child on earth—and each grown-up, too! He sees all the details, even in your mind and heart. Have you thought about the things that you’ve done wrong and how much God hates evil? He sees how sin and evil are going to ruin your life, and so He sent Jesus to suffer for you. Now, just consider who that you know would be willing to die for selfish, sinful people? Don’t you think that Jesus must really love you and want to change your heart? Don’t you think He would want to help you live right every day and make your life happy?

A verse to memorize: “Only fear the LORD, and serve Him with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.”* (1 Samuel 12:24)