Read: Philippians 4:6-7; Hebrews 13:8; 1 Peter 5:7

Tears fell down Leah’s cheeks as she and her parents drove past their old house in the country to see what it looked like now. They had moved to the city to be closer to her dad’s work, but Leah had loved living in the country and really missed her old house. She wished they could have stayed.

Leah’s old house looked so different now. The bushes her dad had planted seemed bigger, and the new owners had painted the house a different color. I liked the old color better, Leah thought to herself.

When Dad pulled into the driveway of their new home, Leah jumped out of the car and ran to her room. She grabbed her favorite stuffed animal and stared out the window. She used to see trees and fields outside her window; now all she saw were more houses.

Mom walked into Leah’s room. “Are you okay?” she asked.

“Yeah, I just wish we still lived in the country. Why did things have to change?”

“The move was a big change for all of us, but living in the city can be fun too.” Mom came and stood next to Leah at the window. “Life changes are hard sometimes. But knowing that Jesus never changes and is always with us can give us peace and comfort when we’re going through big changes in life. Hebrews 13:8 says, ‘Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.’”

The next morning Leah and her mom went for a walk in their new neighborhood. They met their neighbor, Mrs. Franklin, and her daughter, Chelsie. Chelsie was the same age as Leah.

Mrs. Franklin invited Leah and her mom into their backyard. While Mom and Mrs. Franklin visited on the patio, Chelsie and Leah ran and played. Chelsie had a cool tree house.

“Maybe living in the city won’t be so bad after all,” Leah told her mom on their walk home. “I already found something I like about the city—our neighbors.”

Mom smiled. “God is always with us, and He knows exactly what we need.”

That night Leah thanked God for her new friend. She was thankful He was always with her and that He cared about her needs.

–Lisa Fuller

How about you? Is change hard for you? Change can make you feel homesick, lonely, scared, or anxious, but God wants to replace those feelings with His peace. He never changes, and He promises to be with you in every new situation. Next time you’re in a new place or starting a new school, think of it as a great adventure with Jesus by your side! Turn your worries over to Him and He will give you peace and contentment.

Today's Key Verse: This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1:9 (NLT)

Today's Key Thought: God is with you