Speak Up for the Children Mark 9:42 (NLT®) “But if you cause one of these little ones who trusts in me to fall into sin, it would be better for you to be thrown into the sea with a large millstone hung around your neck.” Jesus said the best option for people who harm a child or lead a child astray is to find a big rock, a short rope, and deep water. That sounds harsh, but we get the idea. We've been far too casual about caring for our children—and I mean all the children. We're more concerned about them having experiences and opportunities than we are about protecting them from ungodliness. So, when I see children being manipulated to serve an ungodly social agenda, it gets my attention. We must stand up and say, "That's not right. Do not try to confuse them about things that are not confusing. Do not subject them to things they're not mentally or emotionally ready to hear. Do not manipulate them.” Let’s pray for the children in our families and communities. Let’s do everything we can to protect them—physically, emotionally, and spiritually—and let’s speak up on their behalf. Jesus expects no less. THINK ABOUT IT How are you involved in advocating for the children? PRAYER Heavenly Father, deliver our children from destruction, and forgive us for our casual attitudes toward those whose voices are small. Help us find our voice, and grant us boldness to speak the truth. You are moving in the earth—raise up a generation who will honor You. Amen.

Onward, Allen Jackson Senior Pastor, World Outreach Church