A Kid's Guide To: God's Nearness in ChangeExemple

# Watching Over Me > The Lord cares for his nation, just as shepherds care for their flocks. He carries the lambs in his arms, while gently leading the mother sheep. > Isaiah 40:11 (CEV) No one coaches the team as well as your dad does. Mom’s the only one who really understands. Dad knows how to handle that bully best. No doubt about it: when your parent must deploy or leave for training, they leave a hole. Your parents are a gift from God, and when they’re gone, you can feel alone, vulnerable, and kind of lost. But God doesn’t ever leave you. The Bible says he watches over you like a shepherd watches his sheep—feeding, protecting, and guiding every single day! Sometimes God watches over you by helping your at-home parent or guardian. Sometimes he watches over you by providing a friend to play with, giving you a special opportunity like a fun trip, or giving you courage to face hard times and holding you close. At times it may not feel like he’s there at all, but if you just hold on you will see how he brings you through. He is your loving shepherd, and you are one of his precious sheep. When you feel alone, read this week’s Scripture passage to remind yourself that God is close and always takes care of you. ## SPIRITUAL FITNESS TRAINING Think about how a farmer cares for his sheep. He provides food, water, a safe place to sleep, and medical care. Then think about how God, your shepherd, cares for you. In a journal or on some paper, write down some of the ways God cares for you… and then thank him for it all! ## PRAY Lord, thank you for all the special ways you care for me. You are always near me. ## KEEP IT GOING Related passages: These additional verses will help you expand Scriptural knowledge and put on the armor of God’s Word to tackle each day. Tap to read the passages today. Psalm 23:1 Ezekiel 34:11–12 John 10:11 Revelation 7:17