Larry L. wrote to me a very short but impressive note. It read, “Sorry I can’t donate anything. I’m just a kid, but I’ll stand right with you in prayer. I’ll continue to pray for your mission. Thanks for all your messages.”

I replied: Hi Larry, bless you for your desire to pray for our ministry. This is a big offering to the Lord, and a great encouragement and blessing to Joy and me.

Remember, too, that God has used lots of kids in his work—kids who made themselves available for him to use—kids whom he used to make an impact on others.

Samuel, one of the great prophets of God in years gone by, began to serve God when he was just a kid.

When God called David who became the mighty King of Israel, he was just a shepherd lad being diligent with his work.

Jesus took the five two loaves of bread and two fish that a kid gave to him to feed a multitude of people.

I started serving God when just a kid by collecting and putting away the hymn books after every service in the small church I attended. And one of the best pieces of advice I received when I was little more than a kid was to commit and trust my life and way to God every day—and I’ve been doing that ever since. That’s been for quite a few years now. I encourage you to do the same and God will use you, too, to influence who knows how many people.

Also, ask God every day to use you to be “as Jesus” to your family, friends and every life you touch.

God’s very best to you, Larry, and many thanks again for standing with us in prayer.

Suggested prayer: “Dear God, thank you so much for kids who have a tender heart towards you. Please help me to always come to you as such a child and use me to share your love to others. Thank you for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully, in Jesus’ name, amen.”

1. 1 Samuel 3:10 (NIV).