I know how to live on almost nothing or with everything. I have learned the secret of living in every situation, whether it is with a full stomach or empty, with plenty or little. For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength.

Hey there, amazing kids! Today, we're going to talk about staying strong no matter what happens, just like Paul did in the Bible. Sometimes, life can be like a roller coaster ride. One moment, everything is going smoothly, and the next, we might face challenges or difficult situations. But guess what? We don't have to face them alone. God is always with us, giving us the strength we need to keep going, just like He did for Paul. In Philippians 4:12-13, Paul tells us that he learned the secret of being content in every situation because of God's strength. Whether he had lots of food or was hungry, whether he had everything he needed or not, he knew he could rely on God's strength to help him through.

We're going to make our "Strength Stones" to remind us of God's power and strength in our lives.

Materials Needed:
• Smooth stones (you can find them outside or at a craft store)
• Acrylic Paints - black and colors
• Medium to fine-tip permanent markers
• Paintbrushes
• Craft paint sealant or Clear sealant spray (optional)

Instructions:

1. Find some smooth stones. These will be our "Strength Stones."
2. Wash the stones with soap and water and let them dry completely.
3. Base Coat. Once dry, use white paint to paint the entire area of the stone to give it a "Base Coat." (colors are more vibrant, and words can be seen better)
4. Let it completely dry (5-7mins). Using a marker, write a word or phrase on your stone like "Strength," "Courage," "God is with me," or draw symbols that remind you of God's power.

Let your creativity flow! You can paint different colors and add patterns, flowers, and leaves.

After decorating, let the stones dry for 24 hrs.

If you want your designs to last longer, you can spray or brush a clear sealant over the stones. Be sure to do this step in a well-ventilated area and ask an adult for help if needed.

Once everything is dry, put your Strength Stones in a place where you can see them. Whenever you feel like you need some extra strength, hold your stones and remember that God is always with you, giving you the strength you need!

Prayer:
Dear God, thank you for always being with us. You know the strength we need and give it to us to face any situation. Help us remember that we can rely on you no matter what. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Remember, you are strong because God is with you! Keep trusting Him, and you can do anything through His strength!

Stewardship is based on the truth that all we have and all we are comes from God. We have the chance to thank God for the blessings He gives us. By giving back a portion of our time, talent, and treasure, we are able to show God gratitude for all He has done and continues to do in our lives.

God has given each of us special talents. This month we want you to share your artistic talents with us with a Coloring Contest. Once completed, take a picture of your "DJ Loves" Coloring Sheet. Then send your coloring sheet to us so we can celebrate all your hard work with you and maybe even share your talents with others!

You can send us you coloring page via email to info@wearethebridge.org or text it to us at 855-887-8870.

Have you ever heard the phrase – it is better to give than to receive?
Several years ago, one family set out on their first secret mission to give their Jar From Afar to another family in the community. Paula Osborn and her husband Drew watched their two children approach the door and deliver their gold jar full of love. As the family drove away, they saw the door open and watched another family discover the gift placed on their doorstep!
At that moment they realized giving the Jar From Afar had been as much of a blessing to them as they hoped it would be to the family who received it.