Smart Move
SMART MOVE
Read Romans 12:9-17.
“Got caught peeking during a spelling test, didn’t you?” Peter accused his sister Abby as they played checkers. “I heard the kids in your class talking about it.”
“Yeah,” Abby admitted. She studied the board game. “I’ll never do that again.”
“Gotcha!” Peter yelled triumphantly. “Your bad move gives me three pieces.”
Abby looked up as her mother and little sister Cindi came into the room. “Which color are you, Abby?” asked Cindi.
“Red. Can’t you tell?” Abby teased as she moved a black checker.
“Are not,” protested Cindi. “You moved a black piece.”
“It’s easy for Cindi to see which side you’re really on in spite of what you said,” commented Mom. “She just had to see your moves.” She paused for a moment. “Your friend Jasmine was watching your moves today too.”
Abby stared at her mother. “What?”
“Jasmine called and said to tell you that she’s not interested in going to church with someone who cheats on a spelling test,” Mom said. Abby blushed.
“I was pleased when you invited Jasmine to come to church,” Mom said, “but she saw the move you made at school. I’m afraid she won’t believe anything you say now about how good God is. That is a big deal.”
“Oh-h-h! I . . . I’m sorry,” Abby said. “I’m a Christian, and I want Jasmine to become one too.”
“Then she needs to see that Jesus makes a difference in your life,” said Mom. “Obviously, she couldn’t tell today. Actions spoke more loudly than words.”
“What should I do?” Abby asked.
“It’s your move,” Mom replied. “What do you think you should do?”
“I need to apologize to Jasmine,” Abby admitted, “and to God, too.”
“Congratulations,” said Peter. “That would be a smart move!”
HOW ABOUT YOU?
When people see your actions, will they believe you’re on the Lord’s side? Actions speak louder than words. Let your actions say that you belong to Jesus.
TO MEMORIZE:
Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!
Romans 12:16
WITNESS BY THE WAY YOU LIVE.
From the book
