The Treasure Box : A Lesson on Honesty for Every Young Child

At Catch Them Young Bible Club (CTYBC), we believe in teaching God’s truth in ways that children, teens, and adolescents can understand. Today, we explore the value of honesty, not just as a rule, but as a mark of true strength. Let’s journey to a small town called Sabon Lugbe, where a young boy learns a lesson that changes his heart forever.

Uncle Emma

5/14/20252 min read

The Story of Tobi and the Missing Naira

In Sabon Lugbe, where the sound of grinding machines filled the air and children played football in the dusty streets, lived Tobi, a 10-year-old boy who loved helping his father in his small provisions store.

One evening, as Tobi arranged bottles of soft drinks on the shelf, he noticed something on the floor—a 500-naira note! His heart pounded. That was enough to buy two meat pies and a Fanta—his favourite snack. He glanced around. No one was looking.

"If I take it, no one will know," he thought.

But as he folded the money in his palm, his stomach twisted. He remembered his father’s words: "Tobi, a good name is better than riches."

That night, Tobi couldn’t sleep. The money felt heavy in his pocket. The next morning, he went to his father with his head bowed.

"Papa… I found this money yesterday, and I kept it."

His father’s face was serious, but his eyes softened. "Come, let me tell you a story."

The Tale of the King’s Treasure Box

Long ago, in a faraway kingdom, a wise king gave his two sons identical treasure boxes.

"These boxes are special," he said. "One day, I will ask you to open them before me."

The first son, Prince Kola, was impatient. "What’s inside?" he wondered. One day, he pried it open and found gold coins! Excited, he spent them all on fine clothes and parties.

The second son, Prince Dayo, resisted curiosity. "Father said to wait," he reminded himself.

Years later, the king called his sons. "Bring your boxes."

Prince Kola’s box was empty. But when Prince Dayo opened his, the king smiled. "Because you obeyed, I now give you the keys to the royal treasury!

Tobi’s Lesson Learned

Tobi’s eyes widened. "So, Papa, honesty is like keeping the treasure box closed?"

"Yes," his father nodded. "Every time you choose honesty, God trusts you with greater things. That 500 naira was a test—and you passed!"

Tobi returned the money, and his father hugged him tightly.

📖 What the Bible Says:

- Proverbs 12:22 – The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in those who tell the truth.

- Ephesians 4:25 – Put away falsehood and speak truthfully.

- Luke 16:10 – Whoever is faithful in small things will be trusted with much.

📝 CTYBC Takeaway Lessons for Children & Teens:

✅ Honesty brings honor—even when no one is watching.

✅ A lie may hide today, but it will shame you tomorrow.

✅ God rewards integrity with greater blessings.

✅ True strength is doing what’s right, even when it’s hard.

✅ Your word is your bond—keep it pure.

At CTYBC, we are raising a generation that knows truth is not just a rule—it’s God’s way of life!

💬 Parents & Teachers: Let’s keep teaching our children that a good name shines brighter than gold.

"The Lord loves those who do right." – Psalm 11:7