Read: Psalm 20:6-7; Romans 8:38-39

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story deals with a heavy subject that may not be suitable for young children.

“Almost time for school,” Mom said as she picked up Rhea’s backpack. “Rhea! What do you have in here? Feels like a bag full of rocks!” She unzipped the top.

Rhea’s eyes grew round. “No, Mom, don’t—”

But Mom was already pulling out a can of hairspray, a camouflage jacket that belonged to Rhea’s brother, a bicycle helmet, and indeed, one large rock. “Is this for some kind of project at school?”

Rhea looked down. “No. I was just…” She sighed. “Scared.”

Mom sat down with her on the sofa. “Scared? Of school?”

“I’ve been watching the news.” Rhea leaned her head against her mom. “There was another shooting at a school. And we did a drill at school so we’d know what to do if it wasn’t safe.”

Mom had a sad look in her eyes. But then they twinkled a bit. “So if someone dangerous comes in, you’re going to...do his hair? Or send him away on a bicycle?” Mom grinned softly, and Rhea smiled too.

“I thought I could spray hairspray in his eyes. The bicycle helmet is for me, to protect my head. The camo is so he wouldn’t see me. And I could throw the rock at him. I’ve been practicing.”

“Oh, honey.” Mom pulled Rhea onto her lap. “I hate that you feel afraid. But think of the story of David and Goliath in the Bible. Was it the rock that kept David safe?”

Rhea nodded. “He killed Goliath with it.”

Mom shook her head. “It might seem that way, but that’s not what happened. It wasn’t something that kept David safe, but someone.”

Rhea’s eyes brightened. “Oh! You mean God.”

“That’s right,” said Mom. “He’s the one who truly keeps us safe, but that doesn’t always mean He’ll keep us from harm. Remember, when Jesus died on the cross, He was right where God wanted Him to be. He was fulfilling God’s good plan for salvation.”

“Yeah,” said Rhea, “saving us was a really good plan.”

Mom nodded. “And because of that good plan, we know nothing can ever separate us from Jesus, even when bad stuff happens and we feel afraid. He promises to always be with us. And”—she tickled Rhea lightly—“I trust Him a lot more than hairspray!” • Janel Breitenstein

Jesus keeps you safe

Key Verse

Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

Psalm 20:7 (NIV)

What do you rely on to keep you safe? It’s good to be prepared and take precautions, but remember where your safety really comes from. No matter what scary situations you face, you’re always safe with Jesus because He died to save you from sin and evil and give you eternal life. Even when terrible things happen, remember that nothing can separate you from Him. Trust Him to always be with you and keep you safe.