Don't you know that there are lots of times it is hard to be cheerful and kind? It is like a stormy winter day when plants don't want to grow.... But Jesus has a way for us to "sprout" on those stormy winter days.

"I don't think you really want this kind of doll, Precious. Even though it's cheap, it's not worth the money." Self-pity tears filled Precious' eyes. "But Mama... I love her, I really do. I don't care if she's got a broken finger. And I have the money... she's on sale...."

"I don't like waiting," Edward said. "Why can't we try the cookies now, Alice?" "They're not ready yet," his sister said, sliding the tray in the oven. Grandpa chuckled from his easy chair. "How about a story while we wait for them to bake?"

I think this little bunny has a good lesson to teach us. If we pulled a baby rabbit out of the pile of fur, it would be sure to crawl right back in. Even though it is only a tiny blind baby, it knows to stay where it is warm and safe.

"Does the devil talk to everyone?" he asked. "Why, yes," said Mother. "He will whisper bad ideas to anyone who will listen. But there are two voices. God's Spirit always tells us to do what is right. I hope my little boy will always listen to the right voice."

Jack did not listen. "Daddy, I need you!" he cried. He leaned forward in his car seat, but he couldn't reach Daddy. Panic made his heart beat faster. "Don't leave me, Daddy!" "I'm here, Jack." It was Daddy's voice, far, far away.

As the spirit of gloom filled the room, John took out his sword.... It was time to fight! "Don't be worried, Mother," he said quickly. "We prayed for you and I know God heard us. Remember that Jesus said, 'Believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.' "

We can easily jump to conclusions when we know only a few things about a subject. What if your Mom isn't in the kitchen. Does that mean she went shopping? No. ...facts might help you come to the right conclusion, but even then you could be wrong.