JUNE 11 - Hands Up, Hearts Strong
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 17:19–20; Psalm 68; Exodus 17
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“Whoever loves transgression loves strife; he who makes his door high seeks destruction. A man of crooked heart does not discover good, and one with a dishonest tongue falls into calamity.” — Proverbs 17:19–20
“Blessed be the Lord, who daily bears us up; God is our salvation.” — Psalm 68:19
“Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, and whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed.” — Exodus 17:11
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Have you ever tried to hold your hands in the air for a long time—like, really long? In Exodus 17, Moses had to do just that. While Israel was in battle, whenever he raised his hands, they were winning. When he lowered them, they started losing. So his friends came and helped hold his hands up. The victory wasn’t just about strength—it was about trusting God, staying steady, and supporting each other.
In Proverbs 17, we see a warning: if you chase drama or stir up conflict, it only leads to destruction. A “crooked heart” leads you away from peace, while honesty and humility bring you closer to God’s way.
Then Psalm 68 reminds us of the good news: God carries us daily. Every burden, every worry, every struggle—He’s strong enough to handle it all. But sometimes, like Moses, we need friends to help us lift our arms and keep going when we’re tired.
Whether you're facing school stress, friendship drama, or just feeling overwhelmed, remember you’re not in it alone. God is your strength, and He often sends people—friends, mentors, parents—to help you stand firm and steady in faith.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Avoid the Drama: Are you someone who brings peace or starts problems? How can you guard your heart and words today?
2. Daily Strength: What’s weighing you down right now? Have you talked to God about it—and who might help you carry the load?
3. Lift Each Other Up: Who in your life needs encouragement? How can you be the one holding up someone else’s hands today?
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BOTTOM LINE
God gives us strength every day—and sometimes that strength shows up through people who help us stay faithful and focused when life is hard.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for being my daily strength. I don’t always feel like I can keep going, but You are faithful to lift me up. Help me avoid conflict, speak with honesty, and support the people around me. Use me to be a source of peace and encouragement. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
