What makes a place feel friendly? Maybe it’s a shop where the people smile and remember your name or a restaurant where they treat you like you’re special. We love going to friendly places, don’t we? Now here’s a question: shouldn’t a church be the friendliest place of all?

A long time ago, King David gave his son Solomon some really good advice. He said, “Know God, and serve Him with a loyal heart and a willing mind.” David wanted Solomon to love God and to serve Him gladly. David knew something really true: When we serve other people, it actually makes us stronger and happier on the inside too! Serving God and serving others is a win for everyone.

Whether your church (or any place) is friendly kind of depends on you! You don’t have to be a grown-up to make people feel welcome. A kid who smiles, says “Hi” to someone new, and looks for ways to help can make a huge difference. When you serve with a willing heart, you make God smile, you help others feel loved, and you grow stronger inside.

Take Action: Be a “friendliness helper” this week! Look for at least one way to serve and welcome someone. You could greet a new kid at church, help set up chairs, hand out snacks, hold a door, or check on someone sitting alone. Pick something and do it with a happy, willing heart. Not because you have to, but because you want to serve God and others. Ask God, “Where can I serve today?” Then jump in and make wherever you are a friendlier place!