The J-Bar (Read Psalm 25:4-10)

Dana and Jim were excited about their ski trip. "That rig over there that looks like a bunch of J's going up the hill is called the J-bar," said Dad when they got to the slopes. They skied over to it. "It's not a chair-you don't sit on it," added Dad. "Just let it guide you up the hill." He helped Dana get in position. She grabbed the bar and headed up the hill. Next, Dad got Jim on track, and then he started up the slope.

Shortly before they reached the top of the hill, Dana plopped into the snow. The J-bar groaned to a stop, and Dad came to rescue Dana as quickly as possible. "What happened?" he asked, as he helped his daughter up.

"I didn't know how long it would take to get off," she said. "I moved too soon."

"Quite a bit too soon," agreed Dad. "Just wait, Dana. You'll know when to get off-it'll be easy."

The J-bar began to climb again, but soon it had another stop. This time it was Jim! Dad helped Him out of the soft snow while the other skiers grumbled.

"You're too anxious-just be patient, Jim. You'll see where to let go," Dad repeated. When they reached the top of the hill, Dana and Jim were glad to find how easy it was to get off.

After skiing a while, they enjoyed a snack in the lodge. "Were you mad at us, Dad?" asked Dana.

Dad chuckled. "No, kids," he said. "Actually, the whole experience reminded me of myself."

"Did you jump off too soon, too?" asked Jim.

Dad shook his head. "No, but I've often jumped into other things before the time was right," he explained. "It's not always easy to wait for the plans the Lord has for us. We can't always see the 'top of the hill,' but if we wait patiently for the Lord to guide us, we'll make the right move at the right time." D.E.M.

How about you? - Are you wondering what the future holds for you? Do you want God's guidance? Read your Bible every day and pray often. God knows what tomorrow will bring and sees what you cannot see. Ask him to guide you. Hang on to this promises and trust him. Don't go off on your own.

Key:  God Gives Guidance

Memorize: "Guide me in  your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.""
                                                        Psalm 25:5

This is out of the book "The One Year Book of Devotions for Kids"  BUY IT  Copyright @ 1993 Children's Bible Hour

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Added 10/4/02

Last Updated 01/12/2004