12.3 Family Experience Resources

Joy to the World - Week 1

Jesus came to bring good news to the world!

What are your go-to Christmas traditions? It’s amazing how different all of our Christmas celebrations can be, especially when you take into account how Christmas is celebrated all over the world. This month, we’ll be reminded what a universal gift Jesus is, and how Jesus brought good news, joy, and peace on that very first Christmas so that the whole world could know God!

 MEMORY VERSE: 

"Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests." Luke 2:14 

Toddler Twist: "Glory to God in the highest!" Luke 2:14

MV COLORING PAGE: Luke 2:14

 

READ: The Birth of John Foretold: Luke 1:5-20; 57-66; Malachi 3:1-4

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Joy to the World


DISCIPLE: 

Read Luke 2:!4 with your family. When Zechariah wrote down that the baby should be named "John," like the angel told him to, he could speak once again! So, he started praising God. The good news was coming true! And the best part of this good news was that John would be the one who would prepare the way for Jesus later on. That's very good news!

What are some other ways you can celebrate? Dancing? Jumping for joy? Throwing a party?

Share as a family how your family celebrate good news.

There are so many different ways to celebrate, not just one. And in December, people all over the world get ready to celebrate Christmas! Let's take a look!

Show these images to your family and share a few facts about Christmas celebrations from around the world. You could also show a video like "Christmas Celebrations in Different Countries" or images from the Giant Lantern Festival that takes place in the Philippines. 

Did you know that God celebrates with us, too? God created celebration and invites us all to join in! 

Pray: Dear God, thank you for sending Jesus to bring good news to the world. Thank you that no one is left out of your good news! May we always remember to share good news with people around us, especially the good news about you! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What was the good news about John?

Why was the good news so hard for Zechariah to believe?

What happened to Zechariah after the baby was born?

Read Luke 1:58. What did her neighbors and family members do when they heard Elizabeth’s news?

What are some things you do when you hear good news?

Name one piece of good news you received this past week.

What good news about God can you share with others?

11.26 Family Experience Resources

Plate It - Week 4

Step 4: Leave the Results to God

Kids love to be in the kitchen. They may even love helping prepare something delicious! Having a plan or a recipe usually helps, too. Just like having a plan in the kitchen helps the meal we hope to enjoy, the stories of the Old Testament prophets are like a cookbook that helped people prepare for the Savior that God would send one day. Even though there’s no exact recipe, our families will find that they can prepare themselves for a loving relationship with God when they 1) trust God, 2) talk to God, 3) listen to God, and 4) leave the results to God.

MEMORY VERSE: 

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Jesus Christ to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

Toddler Twist: "I am made by God!" Ephesians 2:10

 

MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 2:10

READ: God Promises a Savior: Jeremiah 33:14-16; Luke 21:29-33

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: 

My Hope is in the Lord

I Believe


DISCIPLE: 

Read Jeremiah 22:14-16; God Promises a Savior.

  • Share with your family about a time when you watched someone you love, or a chef, make a meal that ended up tasting amazing. Talk about all the ingredients and how they prepared each one. Perhaps you got to help prepare the ingredients!

  • It was so cool seeing all the different ingredients that went into this dish and how it was prepared. I would have never thought that putting all those foods and spices together would create something that tasted so good!

  • That's how it is with God, too. God already knows how everything fits together. The results are set! Jesus is our Savior, and Jesus has already defeated sin and death. It's because of this that, one day, we'll get to be with God forever. It's the sweetest dessert!

  • Pray: Wow, God! You love us so much. Thank you for sending Jesus to be our ultimate Savior. Help us to not forget the ways that we can prepare ourselves to serve you. We can trust that everything is in your hands no matter what!

DISCUSSION:

What message did Jeremiah give to God’s people?

Did God’s people listen? What happened because they did not listen to God?

What did God promise despite the people’s disobedience?

Read Jeremiah 33:14. God’s good promise was made to the people of Israel and Judah. How does God’s “good promise” apply to us today?

God chose to save us even though humans continuously choose to disobey God. What does this tell us about God?

What do you think the Kingdom of God will be like?

How can knowing that God is taking care of the results help you serve God better? What will you do differently with this knowledge?

11.19 Family Experience Resources

Plate It - Week 3

Step 3: Listen to God

Kids love to be in the kitchen. They may even love helping prepare something delicious! Having a plan or a recipe usually helps, too. Just like having a plan in the kitchen helps the meal we hope to enjoy, the stories of the Old Testament prophets are like a cookbook that helped people prepare for the Savior that God would send one day. Even though there’s no exact recipe, our families will find that they can prepare themselves for a loving relationship with God when they 1) trust God, 2) talk to God, 3) listen to God, and 4) leave the results to God.

MEMORY VERSE: 

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Jesus Christ to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

Toddler Twist: "I am made by God!" Ephesians 2:10

 

MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 2:10

READ: God Calls Samuel: I Samuel 3:1-10; 19-21; Proverbs 2:1-5

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: 

My Hope is in the Lord

I Believe


DISCIPLE: 

Read 1 Samuel 3:1-10; God Calls Samuel.

  • Have you ever been around someone cooking popcorn? How do you know when the popcorn is done? You hear lots and lots of popping, and then the popping slows down until you hear about one pop every few seconds.

  • Play a popcorn popping sound from youtube.

  • It's super important to listen carefully! If you get distracted and stop paying attention to the slowing of the pops, what happens? It overcooks and burns. You've missed the timing!

  • Paying attention to the popcorn popping is similar to how we need to pay attention to what God has to say to us — otherwise we might miss it completely! Tuning in to what God wants to say to you each day is so much butter than just popping in every now and then. So, every day this week, let's make it a point to not forget step three, listen to God.

  • Pray: Dear God, thank you that you are always near, ready to speak to us. We're listening! Help us to understand you and your plans for us more as we listen. Amen,

DISCUSSION:

Who did Samuel think was calling his name? Who was actually calling Samuel?

What did Eli tell Samuel to do when God called him the next time?

How did God continue to reveal who God is to Samuel?

Read Proverbs 2:1. How do you store up things people say? How does storing up things God says help us?

Have you ever heard God speak to you?

Who is someone in your life who can help you recognize and respond to God’s voice?

How can you make space to listen to God without distractions?

11.12 Family Experience Resources

Plate It - Week 2

Step 2: Talk to God

Kids love to be in the kitchen. They may even love helping prepare something delicious! Having a plan or a recipe usually helps, too. Just like having a plan in the kitchen helps the meal we hope to enjoy, the stories of the Old Testament prophets are like a cookbook that helped people prepare for the Savior that God would send one day. Even though there’s no exact recipe, our families will find that they can prepare themselves for a loving relationship with God when they 1) trust God, 2) talk to God, 3) listen to God, and 4) leave the results to God.

MEMORY VERSE: 

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Jesus Christ to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

Toddler Twist: "I am made by God!" Ephesians 2:10

 

MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 2:10

READ: Hannah Prays for a Baby: I Samuel 1:4-20; Psalm 16

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video 

SONG: 

My Hope is in the Lord

I Believe


DISCIPLE: 

Read 1 Samuel 1:4-20; Hannah Prays for a Baby.

When Hannah felt all these emotions inside of her, what did she do? She talked to God about it! She prayed and poured out her soul to God. God made it possible for her to have a son, and Samuel would grow up to be a spectacular prophet for God!

  • Tell your family a story about a time when you had a really great server at a restaurant. Talk about all of the things that made them great. What we love about stories like these are the personal care we get and the assurance that someone is always there to help.

  • Great servers are like this, and God is, too. We can always talk to God. God loves it when we ask questions, share our needs and our joys, and tell God what we're wondering about. God never gets tired of us!

  • Pray: Dear God, thank you for being so easy to talk to. You never stop listening to us! Help us remember that we can talk to you anywhere, anytime, and about anything. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Why was Hannah so deeply troubled?

What did Hannah promise God if she was given a son?

Why did Hannah name her baby Samuel?

Read 1 Samuel 1:18. Hannah had more peace after talking to God. Have you ever experienced God’s peace in your heart after talking to God?

Do you ever feel like you can’t talk with God about something? Why or why not?

Why do you think God wants us to pray?

What is one thing you want to tell God right now?

11.5 Family Experience Resources

Plate It - Week 1

Step 1: Trust God

Kids love to be in the kitchen. They may even love helping prepare something delicious! Having a plan or a recipe usually helps, too. Just like having a plan in the kitchen helps the meal we hope to enjoy, the stories of the Old Testament prophets are like a cookbook that helped people prepare for the Savior that God would send one day. Even though there’s no exact recipe, our families will find that they can prepare themselves for a loving relationship with God when they 1) trust God, 2) talk to God, 3) listen to God, and 4) leave the results to God.

MEMORY VERSE: 

"For we are God's handiwork, created in Jesus Christ to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10

Toddler Twist: "I am made by God!" Ephesians 2:10

 

MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 2:10

READ: Elijah and the Widow at Zarephath: I Kings 17:8-16; Mark 12:38-44

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: 

My Hope is in the Lord

I Believe


DISCIPLE: 

Read 1 Kings 17:8-16; Elijah and the Widow at Zaraphath

If you could have a never-ending supply of one drink, what would it be?

  • play this chocolate milk gif several times

  • Those are some great suggestions! Chocolate milk sounds like a good one to me! Let's imagine what that could be like.Ok, I think you guys get the point now of how crazy awesome that would be to open up your refrigerator and always have chocolate milk — or whatever your favorite beverage is — inside!

  • Think of how Elijah and the widow must have felt to have experienced such an awesome miracle because they chose to trust God and God's promises!

  • Pray: Dear God, thank you for preparing good works in advance for us to do! Help us trust you above everything else. We don't want to miss an opportunity to serve you! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did God promise Elijah when God sent him to Zarephath?

What did Elijah tell the widow to do?

What did God promise the widow if she trusted God and followed Elijah’s instructions?

Read the first sentence of I Kings 17:13. What is a situation where hearing, “Don’t be afraid,” from God would help you (or would have helped you) trust more?

If you were the widow, how do you think you would have reacted when Elijah told you to use your last ingredients to make him a meal first?

What are some things in your life you can trust God with right now?

On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being “super difficult,” how difficult would it be for you to trust God enough to give him everything you have? Why?

10.29 Family Experience Resources

Big and Small - Week 5

We can be a big help in small ways!

Do you ever stop and think about how big God must be? God created this whole world, all of the planets, and stars in the sky . . . God is really big! Knowing God is big can make us feel small and inconsequential. But the truth is, even the small things are a big deal to God. The story of Job will help everyone realize that even though we are small, God listens to our big feelings, God sees the big picture, God cares about every small problem, and we can also be a big help in small ways.

MEMORY VERSE: 

God's voice thunders in marvelous way; He does great things beyond our understanding." Job 37:5

Toddler Twist: "Our God is amazing and powerful." Job 37:5

READ:  Job's Friends: Job 2:11-13 (Psalm 146)

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: My God is So Big


DISCIPLE: 

Read  Job 2:11-13 and Psalm 146. We just heard about some ways that God is helpful. Now, we’re going to work together to create some lists of ways we can be helpful, too!

Together come up with both big and small ways we can be helpful to others. Use butcher paper or printer paper to write or draw your ideas on.

What are some big ways we can be helpful to others?

What are some small ways we can be helpful to others?

Big or small, God wants us to be helpful to each other!

We can be a big help in small ways.

Hang your paper somewhere you will be reminded daily.


DISCUSSION:

What did Job's friends do to help him?

How do you think Job felt when his friends did that?

In what ways was this the most helpful thing Job's friends could have done?

Read Psalm 146:6. What does it mean when it says that God remains faithful forever?

Does helping others always have to be a big gesture?

Think of one small way someone has comforted you or cheered you up in the past.

What are some small or simple ways we can help our friends?

10.22 Family Experience Resources

Big and Small - Week 4

No problem is too small for God!

Do you ever stop and think about how big God must be? God created this whole world, all of the planets, and stars in the sky . . . God is really big! Knowing God is big can make us feel small and inconsequential. But the truth is, even the small things are a big deal to God. The story of Job will help everyone realize that even though we are small, God listens to our big feelings, God sees the big picture, God cares about every small problem, and we can also be a big help in small ways.

MEMORY VERSE: 

God's voice thunders in marvelous way; He does great things beyond our understanding." Job 37:5

Toddler Twist: "Our God is amazing and powerful." Job 37:5

MV COLORING PAGE: Job 37:5

READ: Job’s Blessings: Job 42:1-6, 10-17; Mark 10:46-52

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: My God is So Big


DISCIPLE: 

Give each family member a big card and a small card and tell them to think of a big problem and a small problem. A big problem could be something like world hunger, whereas a small problem could be fighting with a friend. 

Once they have finished their cards, have them put the cards in the middle of the table and then take turns reading the problems. 

How do we treat each other when we hear about our problems? We listen respectfully. We don’t laugh or joke. We show kindness and love to one another.

How often does God listen to our problems? God always listens!

No problem is too small for God!


DISCUSSION:

How did God bless Job after everything that happened?

Why do you think God did that?

In the story from Mark 10:46-52, why was the blind man healed?

Read Job 42:2. How does it feel knowing that God can do anything?

How would you feel if you were in Job’s shoes?

What does it mean to you to have faith in something?

Name one blessing in your own life.

10.15 Family Experience Resources

Big and Small - Week 3

God sees the big picture!

Do you ever stop and think about how big God must be? God created this whole world, all of the planets, and stars in the sky . . . God is really big! Knowing God is big can make us feel small and inconsequential. But the truth is, even the small things are a big deal to God. The story of Job will help everyone realize that even though we are small, God listens to our big feelings, God sees the big picture, God cares about every small problem, and we can also be a big help in small ways.

MEMORY VERSE: 

God's voice thunders in marvelous way; He does great things beyond our understanding." Job 37:5

Toddler Twist: "Our God is amazing and powerful." Job 37:5

MV COLORING PAGE: Job 37:5

READ: God Answers Job: Job 38:1-7, 34-41; Isaiah 53:4-12

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary-  teaching video

SONG: My God is So Big


DISCIPLE: 

Work together to cut and decorate a large poster frame or construction paper frame. Next, take a picture of each family member and print each. Place the pictures on a poster that will go inside the frame they are decorating.

We are part of God’s big picture! 

How are you a part of God’s big picture? What can you do to help in God’s picture? Even if we can’t see it, we know that God sees the big picture!


Discussion:

What were some of the questions God asked Job?

What do those questions reveal to us about God?

In Isaiah 53:6, what does it mean by we [people] are like sheep?

Read Isaiah 53:10. What was the result of everything that happened to Jesus?

Why do you think God only shows us a small part of the big picture?

How is Jesus a part of God’s big picture?

How are you a part of God’s big picture?

10.8 Family Experience Resources

Big and Small - Week 2

God listens when we have big feelings!

Do you ever stop and think about how big God must be? God created this whole world, all of the planets, and stars in the sky . . . God is really big! Knowing God is big can make us feel small and inconsequential. But the truth is, even the small things are a big deal to God. The story of Job will help everyone realize that even though we are small, God listens to our big feelings, God sees the big picture, God cares about every small problem, and we can also be a big help in small ways.

MEMORY VERSE: 

God's voice thunders in marvelous way; He does great things beyond our understanding." Job 37:5

Toddler Twist: "Our God is amazing and powerful." Job 37:5

MV COLORING PAGE: Job 37:5

READ: Job Cries Out to God: Job 23:1-7; Hebrews 4:15-16

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: My God is So Big


DISCIPLE: 

Read the text above and have your kids to list some of the things Job experienced (e.g., loss of wealth, loss of health, loss of family members, etc.). Then, ask them leading questions about who they would talk to if these things happened to them.

Now, imagine if all those things happened to you. Would you be more likely to talk to someone who had no idea what that was like, or would you want to talk to someone who knew exactly how you felt?

Why?

No matter what’s happening to us and how we’re feeling about it, we can talk to God! We can be confident that God knows every feeling we may have.

We never have to hide our feelings from God, and we can trust that God will never make fun of us or leave us because of the way we feel.


DISCUSSION:
According to Hebrews 4:16, what can we expect when we come to God with our feelings?

What were some of Job’s big feelings?

If you were Job, what are some things you might have wanted to say out loud?

Read Hebrews 4:14-15. Why do you think it is important that Jesus was tempted in every way, but did not do anything wrong?

What should we do when we have big feelings?

How should we approach God when we have big feelings?

How do you know God cares about how we feel?

10.1 Family Experience Resources

Big and Small - Week 1

We are small but God is big!

Do you ever stop and think about how big God must be? God created this whole world, all of the planets, and stars in the sky . . . God is really big! Knowing God is big can make us feel small and inconsequential. But the truth is, even the small things are a big deal to God. The story of Job will help everyone realize that even though we are small, God listens to our big feelings, God sees the big picture, God cares about every small problem, and we can also be a big help in small ways.

MEMORY VERSE: 

God's voice thunders in marvelous way; He does great things beyond our understanding." Job 37:5

Toddler Twist: "Our God is amazing and powerful." Job 37:5

MV COLORING PAGE: Job 37:5

READ: Job’s Sufferings: Job 1:1, 2:1-10; Psalm 8

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: My God is So Big
DISCIPLE: 

Are there things in your life that make you fell small? Maybe even worried or scared?

Think with your kids about times they might feel extra small. Either ask kids to share their examples or come up with a few yourself (e.g., not being able to reach something on a high shelf, not being able to ride certain rides at an amusement park, when grownups couldn’t hear what they said, etc.). 

Whenever each situation is spoken, have each family member squat down and curl up to make themselves very small, while saying, “This is small.” Then have them say, “But God is big!” and jump up with their hands outstretched.

Does knowing that we are small, but God is big help us face scary things? How?

We can trust God all the time. And God will make us brave.

Play this version of Chutes and Ladders as a family....

Job praised God when times were good and when times were bad. Whenever you go down a chute say, “We are small,” and when you go up a ladder, say “But God is big!”


DISCUSSION:

What two words does God use to describe Job?

What are some ways Job suffered?

Does Job do anything wrong while suffering?

Read Psalm 8:3-4. How does it make you feel to look up at the stars and know that they were made by God’s own hands?

How does it make you feel to know God is so big?

How do we know God is with us even when things are hard?

What can we do when we go through tough times?

9.24 Family Experience Resources

Choose Your Adventure - Week 4

I can be wise by choosing God!

Did you know that every day is full of adventures that we get to choose? Some adventures are small, like choosing which book to read. Others are bigger, like deciding how to react when a family member makes us upset. It’s not always easy to know what is best but there is hidden treasure you can take into every choice: wisdom. Wisdom is a valuable gift that helps people choose what’s best. Together we can choose wisdom, by not choosing sides, choosing our words carefully, choosing to do good, and choosing God!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

MEMORY VERSE: 

"Be careful then, how you live- not as unwise, but as wise." Ephesians 5:15

Toddler Twist: "God helps me choose wisely!" Ephesians 5:15

 MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 5:15

READ: Wisdom and Faith: Proverbs 3:1-8; James 5:13-16

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG:  I'm Trusting You


DISCIPLE: 

Think of a time you have faced a scary challenge or had to make a difficult

decision. Remember what it felt like to be unsure of what you should do and how you had to exercise faith and trust God with a situation. Share your story with your family, then lead them in a time of discussion. We can’t see into the future, and some decisions are really hard to make. When you don’t have the answer, remind yourself: I can be wise by choosing God!

Read today's Bible reference to remind your family you can be wise by choosing God- Proverbs 3:1-8.


DISCUSSION:

According to Proverbs 3, what are some things that will happen when we follow what God says?

What does it mean to write something on the “tablet of your heart?”

What does the Bible say we should do instead of leaning on our own understanding?

Read James 5:16. What type of person’s prayer is effective?

What is one thing you can pray to God for help about?

What is one thing you can praise God for?

What might choosing God look like for you this week?

9.17 Family Experience Resources

Choose Your Adventure - Week 3

I can be wise by choosing to do good!

Did you know that every day is full of adventures that we get to choose? Some adventures are small, like choosing which book to read. Others are bigger, like deciding how to react when a family member makes us upset. It’s not always easy to know what is best but there is hidden treasure you can take into every choice: wisdom. Wisdom is a valuable gift that helps people choose what’s best. Together we can choose wisdom, by not choosing sides, choosing our words carefully, choosing to do good, and choosing God!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

MEMORY VERSE: 

"Be careful then, how you live- not as unwise, but as wise." Ephesians 5:15

Toddler Twist: "God helps me choose wisely!" Ephesians 5:15

 

MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 5:15

READ: Wisdom and Actions: Psalm 1; James 3:13-18

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG:  I'm Trusting You


DISCIPLE: 

Read today's Bible reference together Psalm 1 and James 3:13-18. 

Earlier in the book of James, it says to “get wisdom.” In this game, we’re going to race to see who can get these words that describe God’s wisdom: pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, merciful, impartial, and sincere.

Activity- Have two sets of seven plastic cups lined up on a table. Write the six characteristics of godly wisdom on the cups. Use black ping-pong balls to bounce into each cup. The first person to get a “cannonball” in each cup wins.

It’s not going to be easy to be peace-loving, considerate, impartial, and any of the other words to describe God’s wisdom. Sometimes, we will mess up and miss the mark. But the thing about choosing to do good is that we keep trying . . . that is what makes us wise! When we have a choice of where we’re going, let’s remember our Big Idea: I can be wise by choosing to do good.


DISCUSSION:

What does “blessed” mean?

What does a blessed person delight in?

What does Psalm 1 compare a “righteous” person to? How about a “wicked” person?

Read James 3:17. What are some words to describe the wisdom that comes from God?

Why do we need God’s wisdom to do good?

What might be an example of the wrong kind of wisdom?

What is something good you can do this week?

9.10 Family Experience Resources

Choose Your Adventure - Week 2

I can be wise by choosing my words carefully!

Did you know that every day is full of adventures that we get to choose? Some adventures are small, like choosing which book to read. Others are bigger, like deciding how to react when a family member makes us upset. It’s not always easy to know what is best but there is hidden treasure you can take into every choice: wisdom. Wisdom is a valuable gift that helps people choose what’s best. Together we can choose wisdom, by not choosing sides, choosing our words carefully, choosing to do good, and choosing God!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

MEMORY VERSE: 

"Be careful then, how you live- not as unwise, but as wise." Ephesians 5:15

Toddler Twist: "God helps me choose wisely!" Ephesians 5:15

 

MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 5:15

READ: Wisdom and Speech: Psalm 19; James 3:4-10

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG:  I'm Trusting You


DISCIPLE: 

Every pirate is different. Some pirates follow a pirate code that helps keep them from lying, stealing, or fighting on board. When they signed the pirate code papers, they were making a promise to live like good pirates!

Give each family member a notecard, a pencil, crayons, and markers. Share a few scenarios when kids might be tempted to speak unwisely (e.g., someone cut them in line, a sibling broke one of their belongings, they heard a rumor about someone, etc.). After each scenario, tell your kids to write down words or phrases they could say in that situation that would be wise. Next share your responses with each other.

Look at all those wise words on your paper! You can decorate your paper and write your name in big, fancy letters down at the bottom. You now have your own signed copy of the pirate code.

Our code is . . . I can be wise by choosing my words carefully.

Remind your family of today's Bible reference by reading together- Psalm 19


DISCUSSION:

What does Psalm 19 say that the heavens, skies, and all of nature do even though they have no voice?

The writer of Psalm 19 said that God’s law is more precious than _____ and sweeter than _____.

What did the writer of Psalm 19 want to be pleasing to God?

Read James 3:9. What are the two things we can use our tongues for?

Why is it important to speak wisely to others?

In what situation this week will you need to make sure that you speak wisely?

How do you think speaking wisely will help your relationships with other people?

9.3 Family Experience Resources

Choose Your Adventure - Week 1

I can be wise by not choosing sides!

Did you know that every day is full of adventures that we get to choose? Some adventures are small, like choosing which book to read. Others are bigger, like deciding how to react when a family member makes us upset. It’s not always easy to know what is best but there is hidden treasure you can take into every choice: wisdom. Wisdom is a valuable gift that helps people choose what’s best. Together we can choose wisdom, by not choosing sides, choosing our words carefully, choosing to do good, and choosing God!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

MEMORY VERSE: 

"Be careful then, how you live- not as unwise, but as wise." Ephesians 5:15

Toddler Twist: "God helps me choose wisely!" Ephesians 5:15

READ: Wisdom and Favoritism: Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23; James 2:1-10

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: I'm Trusting You


DISCIPLE: 

Choose one person in the family to be the captain. They are “it.” The rest of the family are sailors. Sailors can only crawl like they’re swabbing the deck. When they get tagged once by the captain, they become first mates. First mates hop around on one leg, and once they get tagged by the captain a second time, they become captains and can walk normally and help the captain tag people. The job of the captain is to get as many people to captain rank in the time allotted.

The more captains there were the easier it became to make others captains!

Did you know that not all pirates are bad pirates? Good pirates had a well-maintained ship with a pirate code that helped everyone get along.

When we are wise and see that we are all loved by God, it can be easy to work together toward showing God’s love to everyone around us! Read Proverbs 22:1-2, 8-9, 22-23 together. 


DISCUSSION:

What is better to have than riches?

What were the two types of people that the Bible story from Proverbs 22 talked about?

Whether we are rich or poor, what do all of us have in common?

Read James 2:9. What does this verse say about favoritism?

What are some ways you might be tempted to show favoritism?

What can you do to remind yourself to choose wisely and not choose sides?

What do you show when you don’t show favoritism?

8.27 Family Experience Resources

Famous - Week 4

When we are thankful, we can give God what we have!

Lots of kids dream about becoming famous . . . and why shouldn’t they? It sounds awesome to have fans who celebrate your wins with you! On the flip side, it would be pretty tough to have people always watching, even when you’re not having the best day. In Famous, we are going to talk about a family in the Bible who lived in such a spotlight. Through their stories, our kids will learn that no matter our celebrity status, we can make things right, God gives us friends, we can ask for God’s guidance, and we can give God what we have.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

MEMORY VERSE: 

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" 1 Corinthians 10:31

Toddler Twist: "Praise God in all you do!"  1 Corinthians 10:31

MV COLORING PAGE: 1 Corinthians 10:31

READ: Solomon Builds the Temple: I Kings 6:11-14; 8:22-30

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: In You Alone


DISCIPLE: Play ”Famous For (I Believe)” by Tauren Wells

We have been listening to this song every week so far. One thing we haven’t done is thank God for doing the things that are mentioned in this song. The temple Solomon built for God had a veil that separated the most holy place from the rest of the temple, and no one except the high priest was allowed to go inside. It symbolized the fact that our sin separates us from our holy and perfect God.

But when Jesus got rid of our sin, the Bible says the veil in the temple tore in two —

which showed that now anyone could come directly to God. This is truly something

to be thankful for!

So, as we listen to this song again, we’re going to work together to make God a thank you card! Play”Famous For (I Believe)” by Tauren Wells.

In the middle of the paper, write “God, thank You for doing what You’re famous for!” Then, write or draw pictures that show one line of the song that stands out to you.

 

Disciple Activity 2

What are some things you have that you can give to God?

You can draw a clock to show your time.

You can draw a talent you have that you could use to praise God.

Or you might think there is nothing you have that you can give, but remember the

thing you do for others is also like doing it for God. So, maybe you can’t give God your

toys, but you could donate a few toys to someone in need.

Now, create a picture of some of these things you have that you can give to God with a thankful heart. Use a combination of all the supplies provided to make your picture!

Just like we were able to do this activity using the things we had, when we are thankful, we can give God what we have.

 

DISCUSSION:

What did Solomon build for God?

Who wanted to build it before Solomon did?

Why did Solomon thank God?

Read Psalm 84:11. What does it mean that God is both a “sun” and a “shield?”

Name one thing you are thankful to God for this week.

Name one person you are thankful to God for this week.

Why do you think it’s important to express our thankfulness to God?

8.20 Family Experience Resources

Famous - Week 3

When we need help, we can ask God for guidance!

Lots of kids dream about becoming famous . . . and why shouldn’t they? It sounds awesome to have fans who celebrate your wins with you! On the flip side, it would be pretty tough to have people always watching, even when you’re not having the best day. In Famous, we are going to talk about a family in the Bible who lived in such a spotlight. Through their stories, our kids will learn that no matter our celebrity status, we can make things right, God gives us friends, we can ask for God’s guidance, and we can give God what we have.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

MEMORY VERSE: 

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" 1 Corinthians 10:31

Toddler Twist: "Praise God in all you do!"  1 Corinthians 10:31

MV COLORING PAGE: 1 Corinthians 10:31

 

READ: Solomon Becomes King: I Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: In You Alone


DISCIPLE: 

Read I Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14. Then, listen to “Famous For (I Believe)” by Tauren Wells. Have your kiddos work together to create motions or a dance to go along with the lyrics. Then have them teach you (the parent) what they came up with. 

How did you help each other while doing this activity?

Who was there to guide you?

This song is about believing God will help us in any situation because God is famous for things like parting the Red Sea and closing the mouths of hungry lions.

Jesus did amazing miracles like that while on Earth, too, and showed love by helping people. Jesus was the kind of leader who not only said wise things, but did them! Jesus was able to do that because Jesus talked to God all the time, so Jesus knew what God wanted. Whenever we come across any situation that we feel is too difficult for us, we can be like Jesus, who stayed in constant communication with God. When we need help, we can ask for God’s guidance, and we can do that through prayer!

Think about something you know you can’t do on your own. Not like lifting a car

or flying to Neptune on a jetpack. I mean things that you know you should do, but you know you can’t do it without God’s help.

Draw a picture of you successfully doing this near-impossible task! Maybe it’s spending more time talking with God. Or being kind to someone at school you don’t really get along with. Or using respectful words to your family members. Whatever it is, keep in mind that when we need help, we can ask for God’s guidance.


DISCUSSION: 

What did God ask Solomon in the dream?

Why did Solomon ask for “a discerning heart?”

How did God respond to Solomon’s request?

Read Ephesians 5:8-10. How did Solomon’s request demonstrate goodness, righteousness, and truth? We might not have kingdoms to run, but we still need wisdom like Solomon had. What is one thing you need wisdom to do (besides studying)?

Who are the people in your life who give you guidance?

How has God given you guidance in the past? Or when is a time you needed God’s guidance in the past?

8.13 Family Experience Resources

Famous - Week 2

When we feel alone, God gives us friends!

Lots of kids dream about becoming famous . . . and why shouldn’t they? It sounds awesome to have fans who celebrate your wins with you! On the flip side, it would be pretty tough to have people always watching, even when you’re not having the best day. In Famous, we are going to talk about a family in the Bible who lived in such a spotlight. Through their stories, our kids will learn that no matter our celebrity status, we can make things right, God gives us friends, we can ask for God’s guidance, and we can give God what we have.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

MEMORY VERSE: 

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" 1 Corinthians 10:31

Toddler Twist: "Praise God in all you do!"  1 Corinthians 10:31

 

MV COLORING PAGE: 1 Corinthians 10:31

READ: Adonijah Tries to Become King: I Kings 1:5-14; 29-35

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: In You Alone


DISCIPLE: 

Read I Kings 1:5-14; 29-35. Then, listen to “Famous For (I Believe)” by Tauren Wells. 

Can you think of what Jesus was famous for when Jesus was here on Earth? 

When Jesus was here on Earth, everyone knew about Jesus and the things Jesus could do. Jesus was famous! But even Jesus felt alone. When Jesus was praying in the garden before being arrested, Jesus asked friends to pray, but they fell asleep. When Jesus was captured, all the friends ran away.

So, Jesus really gets what being alone is like — Jesus has been there! And because Jesus loves us, Jesus doesn’t leave us to stay alone whenever we are experiencing loneliness.

Today’s Big Idea reminds us that when we feel alone, God gives us friends. And sometimes, the friends God gives us might not be the friends you expected. Even when your best friend might not agree with you, there is always a friend that will help you — God makes sure of that.

Draw a picture of you with your friends. Think of a time when a friend helped you to not feel alone anymore. If you can’t think of one, think of your favorite thing to do with your friends. As you draw your picture, silently thank God for giving you your friends. They may not be perfect, but they might be exactly who you need. When we feel alone, God gives us friends.


DISCUSSION:

What did Adonijah do that he didn’t have permission to do?

What advice did Nathan give Bathsheba?

What did David do when he heard what Adonijah had done?

Read Ephesians 5:2. How can you “walk in the way of love” for the people in your life?

What are some things you do when you feel alone?

Name a few people in your life you know will always be there for you.

Why is it better to tell someone about what you’re going through when you’re feeling sad, lonely, or helpless?

8.6 Family Experience Resources

Famous - Week 1

When we make mistakes, we can make things right!

Lots of kids dream about becoming famous . . . and why shouldn’t they? It sounds awesome to have fans who celebrate your wins with you! On the flip side, it would be pretty tough to have people always watching, even when you’re not having the best day. In Famous, we are going to talk about a family in the Bible who lived in such a spotlight. Through their stories, our kids will learn that no matter our celebrity status, we can make things right, God gives us friends, we can ask for God’s guidance, and we can give God what we have.

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

MEMORY VERSE: 

"So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God" 1 Corinthians 10:31

Toddler Twist: "Praise God in all you do!"  1 Corinthians 10:31

MV COLORING PAGE: 1 Corinthians 10:31

READ: Nathan Reveals David’s Sin: II Samuel 11:26-12:13a

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: In You Alone


DISCIPLE: 

Read II Samuel 11:26-12:13a. Then, play the song, “Famous For (I Believe),” by Tauren Wells. 

What are some things this song says God is “famous for?” Write them down.

God is famous for miracles and acts of wonder, but even greater than those things is that God famously forgives. The story of David showed us there is no mistake too big that God won’t forgive. And how does God forgive? That’s right! When we pray and ask! God’s own son, Jesus, gave the ultimate sacrifice to make this forgiveness available to all of us.

But let’s think about today’s Big Idea: When we make mistakes, we can make things right. That means it’s not enough to feel and say we’re sorry. We need to be responsible for the mistakes we’ve made or the people we’ve hurt. We need to take the next steps toward making things right. 

Think of a time when you made a mistake. Maybe you threw your trash on the ground. Maybe you said something to hurt your friend’s feelings. Maybe you didn’t study for a big test.

Draw a picture of how you might make things right for that mistake. Is it a picture of you picking up trash and putting it in the right place? Is it an “I’m sorry” card for your friend? Is it you studying really hard for the next test? When we make mistakes, we can make things right.

DISCUSSION:
What did the rich man do wrong in Nathan’s story?

Why did Nathan tell David this story?

What did David do as soon as he realized what the story was about?

Read Ephesians 4:15. Can you think of an example when someone might be “speaking the truth in love?”

When is one time you learned something from a mistake you made?

Describe a time when you might feel that saying, “I’m sorry,” is not enough.

What kinds of things can you do to make things right?

7.30 Family Experience Resources

Up in the Air - Week 5

I can be used by God!

We learn about so many incredible humans — past and present — who have changed the world using their influence, their voice, their dreams, and their passion. Our kids might find it hard to relate to these dreamers, though, and ask themselves, “Can God use me for something that grand?”
In Up In The Air, our families will learn through the stories of Elisha that we can dream big with God, have faith in God, count on God’s promises, ask God for what we need, and be used by God. The sky isn’t the limit anymore . . . not with God’s promises at work in our lives!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

BIG IDEA: I can be used by God.

MEMORY VERSE: 
"Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things." Colossians 3:6

Toddler Twist: "Keep your focus on God." Colossians 3:6 
READ: Elisha and Naaman: II Kings 5:1-14; Colossians 3:1-4

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Fly

COLORING: Elisha and Naaman


DISCIPLE: Read the Bible text above. Elisha didn’t need to meet with Naaman and do some spectacular signs and wonders. Because Naaman had zero confidence that washing in the river would work, when he was healed, he knew that it could only have come from the God that Elisha served.

Think of the different people who God used to cure Naaman: the servant girl from Israel, the kings of Aram and of Israel, Naaman’s servants, Elisha . . . every single one of them played a part in God’s plan!

You and your children, are each created with so many wonderful gifts and talents that can be used by God! But let’s back up for a second. Because there are many people out in the world who have remarkable skills, but that doesn’t mean they’re being used by God.

- So, what does it even mean to be used by God?

Being used by God means that everything we do somehow points to God. We often do this by helping others with the gifts we have.

When you use your gifts and talents to help others and to help others know more about God, that is God using you!

Pray: God, thank you for giving us good gifts that we can use for you. Sometimes we might feel like we’re not special enough, but we know none of us are left out of being used by you. Help us to spend more time with you to find our purpose and learn how we can help others with the thing you gave us. Amen.

 

DISCUSSION:

What problem did Naaman have?

How did Naaman get healed? 

Who are the different people in today's story that was used by God to help Naaman?

Read Colossians 3:2. What does it mean to "set your mind on things above"? 

Name someone in your life that God used to help you in some way. 

Why can it be difficult to be used by God? 

What can you do to be used by God in everyday life? 

7.23 Family Experience Resources

Up in the Air - Week 4

I can ask God for what I need!

We learn about so many incredible humans — past and present — who have changed the world using their influence, their voice, their dreams, and their passion. Our kids might find it hard to relate to these dreamers, though, and ask themselves, “Can God use me for something that grand?”
In Up In The Air, our families will learn through the stories of Elisha that we can dream big with God, have faith in God, count on God’s promises, ask God for what we need, and be used by God. The sky isn’t the limit anymore . . . not with God’s promises at work in our lives!

Click HERE to watch this month’s memory verse video!

BIG IDEA: I can ask God for what I need.

MEMORY VERSE: 
"Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things." Colossians 3:6

Toddler Twist: "Keep your focus on God." Colossians 3:6 
READ: Elisha and the Famine: II Kings 4:38-44; Luke 11:1-9

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Fly

COLORING: Elisha and the Famine

DISCIPLE: Read the above text and share personal stories as a family.... 

Tell about a personal time when you needed something and God made a way.

This story can either be about a time when you were a kid or something more recent.

Next, use paper and pen to create a column labeled “wants” and another “needs." Have you family make suggestions for each, write them out and put them in the

appropriate columns.

What are some needs we have?

What are some wants we might have?

Is there anything here that might be both?

This week's Big Idea says I can ask God for what I need. Sometimes we spend a lot of time praying for the things we want, but forget that they are not what we need.

When we know the difference, we can learn to be happy with what we already have.

In this weeks Bible story Elisha trusted in God, and he knew that God would help him. Even though the Bible doesn’t tell us what exactly Elisha said to God, we know he asked God for help because Elisha had answers that only God could give!

Pray: God, thank you for watching over us and providing for us. Even though you already know everything, we’re so glad we can ask you for the things we need. Help us to trust that you know what’s best for us and to be patient while we wait for you. Amen.

 

DISCUSSION:

What did God do to help Elisha when the stew in the pot was spoiled?

What did God do to help Elisha feed the crowd of a hundred?

How do you know Elisha asked God for help? 

Read Luke 11:9. What does the Bible say you can expect when you pray and ask for what you need? 

What is one thing you really want right now? 

What is one thing you really need right now? 

What are some needs that you can ask God for on behalf of others?