What Does God Say About Belonging?

Have you ever felt left out, forgotten or unwanted? Maybe someone in your class had a party and didn’t invite you. Or maybe your parents are divorced, and one parent doesn’t visit or call you.

Sometimes it can feel like we just don’t belong. That’s when it’s important to remember this awesome truth: We all belong to God’s family, and our heavenly Father will never forget us! The Bible says that all the people in the world who love Jesus make up one big family called the Body of Christ.

Think about the many different body parts you have. On a sheet of paper, list or draw some parts of your body, such as ears, hands or eyes. Imagine what might happen if those parts didn’t work. The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 12:20-21: “As it is, there ­are many parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, ‘I don’t need you!’ And the head cannot say to the feet, ‘I don’t need you!’”

Just like our body parts work together to make one complete body, every person works together to make one healthy family or community at home, church and school. Here are things we can do to keep our families healthy and show others that they belong.

• If you see someone eating or playing alone, invite her to join you.
• Tell someone you love why he is an important part of your life.
• Do your chores to make your home clean and help your family.
• Read Romans 12:4-8, and think of how you can use your special gifts to help others.

Prayer

Dear Jesus, 

I'm so glad that I'm part of Your family and that I can talk to you when I'm feeling bad. Please give me ideas for how to make other people feel wanted and included, in class and at home. Thank You for giving me a place to belong. 

In Your name, Amen.

For more on belonging, try this fun game: Left Out