Bible Times 96

  The Garden of the Neglected Body   A Bible-Based Story on Health, Stewardship, and the Wisdom of God Scripture Foundation: “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” — 3 John 1:2 (KJV) The Garden That Began to Wither In a quiet village surrounded by green hills, there lived a farmer named Eliab. He was known throughout the region for his diligence, honesty, and remarkable ability to grow abundant crops. His fields were well cultivated, his storehouses were full, and his family rarely lacked anything necessary for daily living. Yet, while Eliab cared for nearly everything entrusted to him, there was one precious gift he had slowly learned to neglect: his own health. Every morning, he rose before sunrise and hurried into the fields. He believed that a successful day began with work and ended only when exhaustion forced him to stop. He often skipped breakfast, drank little water, and continued work...

  Rebel: The Tree That Refused to Bend   A Bible-based story about rebellion, pride, and the wisdom of listening to God. Key Bible References: 1 Samuel 15:22–23; Proverbs 12:1; Isaiah 1:19–20 Introduction: When Disobedience Wears the Mask of Freedom A rebel is often described as someone who refuses to obey authority, challenges established rules, or chooses a path different from the one others follow. Sometimes, rebellion arises from a desire for justice. At other times, it grows from pride, stubbornness, or the belief that nobody has the right to correct us. The Bible presents an important distinction between standing firm for what is right and refusing to obey because we want our own way. God does not call His people to follow Him merely with their lips while their hearts remain resistant to His instruction. In 1 Samuel 15:22–23, Samuel teaches King Saul that obedience is more pleasing to God than sacrifice. Saul had attempted to justify his disobedience with r...