Day 124 · May 4
Kids Corner — Day 124
Judges 19:1–20:48 · John 3:22–4:3 · Psalm 104:24–35 · Proverbs 14:22–24
Today’s story
Judges reaches one of its darkest moments. Violence, outrage, and civil war reveal how far God's people have fallen.
John the Baptist refuses competition with Jesus: Christ must increase, and John must decrease.
The psalm praises God's wisdom in creation and His power over life itself.
Those who plan good find steadfast love; wisdom produces lasting benefit.
The story in children’s words
A terrible wrong was done in the city of Gibeah. A traveler was taken in for the night, but wicked men of the city hurt his wife so badly that she died. All Israel heard about it and was filled with sorrow and anger. They asked the tribe of Benjamin to give up the wicked men, but Benjamin would not listen and chose to fight instead. Twice Benjamin won the battle, and Israel wept before the Lord. The third time, God gave Israel the victory, though it cost many lives. It was a sad time, because God's people had no king and sin had grown deep. At that same time in the New Testament, Jesus and John were both baptizing, and more and more people came to Jesus. John was glad and said, "He must increase, but I must decrease," for whoever believes in the Son has eternal life. Jesus is the King God's people truly need.
It points to Jesus
When human pride and self-rule grow, destruction follows. John shows the opposite posture: make much of Jesus, not yourself.
Talk about it
Encourage someone who quietly serves without needing credit.