🦋 The Strength and Courage to Try
A Devotion for Children and Adults Who Need a Fresh Start
1️⃣ Trying Takes More Courage Than Winning
Many children think courage is only for heroes who never fall, never fear, and never fail. But the Bible teaches something far sweeter: real courage is simply choosing to try. God says, “Be strong and of a good courage… for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9). Strength is not the absence of fear — it is the willingness to move forward even when fear whispers, “Don’t.” Every time a child tries again, even after a mistake, they show a courage that heaven celebrates.
2️⃣ Football Bees: A Short Example
On the field, Try‑Again Bee is small, quick, and hopeful. He misses a catch, stumbles, and hears the crowd gasp. Nearby, Too‑Proud Bee laughs loudly, saying, “Why even try? You’ll never be as good as me.” Try‑Again Bee feels the sting of embarrassment, but he remembers Joshua 1:9. He squares his tiny shoulders, wipes his eyes, and says, “I’ll try again.” The next play, he catches the ball — not because he became perfect, but because he had the courage to try. Proud Bee’s voice fades; Try‑Again Bee’s courage shines.
3️⃣ Bible Bees: A Gentle Garden Lesson
In the garden hive, Timid Bee wants to gather nectar but worries she will choose the wrong flower. She buzzes in circles, afraid to make a mistake. Encourager Bee lands beside her and says, “God doesn’t ask us to be perfect — He asks us to be faithful.” Timid Bee takes a deep breath, chooses a blossom, and begins her work. She discovers that trying brings joy, and even mistakes help her learn. Bible Bees teach children that courage grows each time they take a small step forward. God blesses the bee — and the child — who tries.
4️⃣ A Bible Story to Anchor the Lesson
Think of David before he fought Goliath (1 Samuel 17). David wasn’t the strongest, tallest, or most experienced. But he had the courage to try. He said, “The Lord… will deliver me.” David stepped forward when others stepped back. His courage didn’t come from confidence in himself — it came from confidence in God. Children learn that courage is not about being big; it is about trusting a big God. David tried, and God used his willingness to bring victory.
5️⃣ The Heart of the Message
The strength and courage to try is one of the greatest gifts God gives His children. When they try again after failing, try kindness after being hurt, try patience when frustrated, or try obedience when tempted, they shine Jesus’ light. Courage is not loud; it is steady. It is the quiet voice that says, “With God’s help, I’ll try again.” Your Football Bees, your Bible Bees, and your children all learn the same truth: God delights in the heart that tries.
© 2026 Susan Barker Nikitenko
— All Rights Reserved
🌟 Memory Verse
“Be strong and of a good courage… for the Lord thy God is with thee.” — Joshua 1:9
— All Rights Reserved
In every moment we're pacing,
He hears your heart’s faith call.
Jesus knows. Yes, Jesus knows. Oh, Jesus knows it all.
Bee Strong — Bee Courageous,
when tears begin to fall.
We serve a mighty Savior
who knows about it all.
Bee Strong — Bee Courageous,
when storms darken the sky.
We lift our wings in prayer
and trust His help is nigh.
For every trial we’re facing,
He gives strength to stand tall.
Jesus knows. Yes, Jesus knows.
Oh, Jesus knows it all.
Bridge —
When life gives you lemons
and your heart is longing for;
a friend who will listen…
remember — sweet Jesus knows it all.
He knows the hurt,
He knows the tears,
He knows your name,
He knows the fears.
He knows your song,
He sings along
—
for Jesus knows it all.
Yes, Jesus knows.
Jesus knows.
Sweet Jesus knows it all.
© 2026 Susan Barker Nikitenko — All Rights Reserved
Bee Strong — Bee Courageous, out on the honey field. When Wasps come charging toward you, God’s love becomes your shield.
When every play feels shaky, and you fear you’ll slip again… Jesus knows. Yes, Jesus knows. Sweet Jesus knows — lose or win.
Bee Strong — Bee Courageous, when the score is looking low. Our Savior sees your effort and cheers you as you go.
When teammates need encouragement, He hears your faith‑filled call. Jesus knows. Yes, Jesus knows. Oh, Jesus knows it all.
Bee Strong — Bee Courageous, when storms sweep through the game. Lift up your wings in prayer and trust His mighty name.
For every trial you’re facing, He helps you rise again. Jesus knows. Yes, Jesus knows. Praise God — lose or win.
🐝 Bridge — Honey Bowl Faith
When life feels like fourth‑and‑long, and your courage’s wearing thin… when you need a friend who listens, remember — sweet Jesus knows it all.
He knows the hurt, He knows the tears, He knows your name, He knows the fears. He knows your play, He leads the way — for Jesus knows it all.
Yes, Jesus knows. Jesus knows — He knows it all. Praise Him, praise Him, praise Him… whether we lose or win, whether we lose or win.
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