Bible Reading: Proverbs 17:27-28; 18:13

“Don’t quit yet!” Jill begged her friend, but Elsie sat down and began unlacing her skates, saying she was cold. “It’s not that cold!” said Jill. Elsie didn’t answer, and Jill went back out on the ice.

“Hey, Jill!” called Mila as she skated by. “My mom is driving some of us to the coffee shop down the street for hot chocolate. Do you and Elsie want to go?”

“I’ll check,” said Jill. She spun around and returned to where Elsie was sitting. “Let’s go with Mila to get some hot chocolate at the coffee shop–it will be nice and warm there!” But Elsie wasn’t interested. Jill sighed. I wish I had come skating with somebody else, she thought. She’s no fun at all today!

When Jill got home, her mother was stirring a mixture in a bowl. “Oh, yum!” said Jill. “Cheesecake!” She picked up a spoon her mother had been using and quickly took a lick. “Ew!” she said, making a face. “What is this? I thought it was cream cheese.”

Mom laughed. “It’s shortening. You jumped to a conclusion without learning the facts again.” Jill knew she often did that.

As Mom continued working, Jill told her about the problem with Elsie. “I think she’s just looking for attention,” said Jill.

“Are you sure you haven’t jumped to another wrong conclusion?” asked Mom. “Maybe something is bothering Elsie and she needs a patient, understanding friend to listen to her and see what’s wrong.”

Jill just shrugged. “If something’s wrong, why wouldn’t she just tell me?”

That evening, Mom came into Jill’s room. “Jill, I talked with Elsie’s mom a few minutes ago. Elsie’s dad left home yesterday.”

“He did?” said Jill. “Where did he go?”

“They don’t know. Elsie’s mom said he has a problem with alcohol and disappears occasionally. I thought you should know so you can pray for them and be there for Elsie.”

“Oh no,” said Jill. “I did jump to conclusions again! No wonder Elsie was quiet today. When I see her tomorrow, I’ll make sure she knows I’m her friend. And I’ll pray for her–and for her dad!”

“I will too,” said Mom. “And I’ll pray that Elsie will see the love of Jesus in the way you care for her as your friend.”

–Linda Weddle

How About You?
Do you care when a friend doesn’t seem happy? Are you understanding and patient when someone doesn’t seem interested in what’s going on? Instead of jumping to conclusions, be sensitive and show them that you care. Jesus always listens to us, cares for us, and sits with us in tough times. Trust Him to help you be that kind of friend too.

Today’s Key Verse:
Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly. (NIV) (Proverbs 14:29)

Today’s Key Thought:
Be understanding of others