11.9 Family Experience Resources

On the right track - Week 1

Racers, start your engines! In a race, you might need to navigate obstacles, pit stops, and tight turns in order to stay on the right track. As you’re zooming through the track, there’s so much to think about and it can be hard to stay focused on what’s most important! In this four-week series, our families will learn some important stories from Joshua about how obstacles are no problem for God and courage comes from knowing God’s words. No matter how long the race, God can use someone like you because with God, there is victory!

BIG IDEA: Obstacles are no problem for God!

BIBLE: Numbers 13–14:9; Psalm 107:1–7,33–37

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful." Hebrews 10:23  (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God will always be there for me!" Hebrews 10:23

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: My Lighthouse and See A Victory

 

DISCIPLE: Read Numbers 13-14:9 together. 

For this activity, you will need a bunch of random supplies: yarn, tape, pipe cleaners, cotton balls, wax sticks, and any crafty thing you find in your house. Give each family member a shallow card board box or a large paper plate and a small marble (or mini car). Have them create a maze out of these materials, with creative obstacles. Afterward, have them navigate their marble through the maze by tilting the box strategically to get the car to the finish line. (See a worked example here.)

  • Even better than you are able to get your “car” to the finish line, God is able to steer you in the right direction, especially when obstacles are involved. Because obstacles are no problem for God!

Pray: Dear God, thank you for being bigger than any obstacle. Obstacles are no problem for you! Amen.

 

PARENT DEVOTIONAL

11.2 Family Experience Resources

Are We There Yet? - Week 5

Can you imagine needing to walk through the desert? You’d be surrounded by cacti, sand, snakes, and more sand. With the heat of the sun, we’d wind up so thirsty and wondering “Are we there yet?” That’s probably how the Israelites felt as they wandered around the desert, waiting to enter the Promised Land. But no matter how tired our feet get, we can focus on what’s happening in our lives right now rather than just on where we’re going. In this five-week series based on stories from Exodus, our families will explore how we can choose to be thankful, love God and others, turn to God when we’re lost, go to God when we need rest, and remember God’s promises.

BIG IDEA: We can remember God’s promises.

BIBLE: Numbers 20:1–13; Deuteronomy 34:1–12; Psalm 90

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:19B  (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Jesus makes a way for me!" Isaiah 43:19

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Way Maker and Same God

 

DISCIPLE: Read or summarize Numbers 20:1-13

Show your family an image of the Antarctic desert. Then give a copy of the printable and some drawing supplies to each family member.

When you think of a "desert," what are the things you think of? Right — sand, sun, camels, cacti, tumbleweed, scorpions. 

But did you know that this is also a desert? (Show image of Antarctic desert)

  • Antarctica is also considered a desert because it gets even less rain than the Sahara Desert. Even though it looks nothing like a typical desert, it's still a desert! 

  • God's promises sometimes don't look the way we imagine they would. 

    • I'm sure when they started the journey, the Israelites thought they would get to the Promised Land right away with very little difficulty. But the Israelites traveled a long time in the desert to get to the land God had promised to them . . . forty years, in fact. 

    • And not everyone made it all the way to the Promised Land. As we read in our Bible story today, Moses and Aaron didn't end up in the Promised Land, but God's promise didn't change. Even though mistakes were made along the way, the Israelites eventually still arrived in the Promised Land. 

  • Even when things don't work out exactly the way we had hoped, we can remember God’s promises. In our memory verse for this month, God says in Isaiah 43:19b, "I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland."

    • Look at the empty desert drawing in front of you. 

    • How can you turn it into something different and unexpected? 

    • Maybe it's a desert with a playground. Or a freezing one with penguins and whales. Or maybe it's not even a desert . . . it's a beautiful beach! 

  • God can do anything beyond what we think is possible . . . like making an Antarctic Desert! 

 

PARENT DEVOTIONAL

10.26 Family Experience Resources

Are We There Yet? - Week 4

Can you imagine needing to walk through the desert? You’d be surrounded by cacti, sand, snakes, and more sand. With the heat of the sun, we’d wind up so thirsty and wondering “Are we there yet?” That’s probably how the Israelites felt as they wandered around the desert, waiting to enter the Promised Land. But no matter how tired our feet get, we can focus on what’s happening in our lives right now rather than just on where we’re going. In this five-week series based on stories from Exodus, our families will explore how we can choose to be thankful, love God and others, turn to God when we’re lost, go to God when we need rest, and remember God’s promises.

BIG IDEA: We can go to God when we need rest.

BIBLE: Exodus 33:7–23; Matthew 11:25–30

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:19B  (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Jesus makes a way for me!" Isaiah 43:19

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Way Maker and Same God

 

DISCIPLE: Read or summarize Exodus 33:7-23

INSTRUCTIONS: Show an image of a bushcraft shelter. Have you family try to build a tent using blankets, towels, clothespins, rubber bands, and other supplies you have on hand. 

On a scale of 1 to 10, how challenging was the building process? Now, imagine trying to build a shelter with things that you find in the wilderness around you. That takes it to a whole new level!

When you train to go out into the wilderness, one of the survival skills you learn is how to build a shelter. You can't always carry a tent with you so you have to use the materials you find in the wild to build your shelter. A shelter protects you from the weather and whatever wildlife might be camping nearby. When you feel safe, it's easier for you to rest. 

 

In today's Bible story, Moses was promised two things: God's presence and rest. But these were not unrelated things. Moses was able to experience rest because he was in God's presence. He was able to calm his worries when he talked with God in the tent of meeting, and even more when he saw God's glory . . . at least from the back. God's presence was like a shelter that gave Moses rest. 

God does this for us too. We can go to God when we need rest. 

 

PARENT DEVOTIONAL

10.19 Family Experience Resources

Are We There Yet? - Week 3

Can you imagine needing to walk through the desert? You’d be surrounded by cacti, sand, snakes, and more sand. With the heat of the sun, we’d wind up so thirsty and wondering “Are we there yet?” That’s probably how the Israelites felt as they wandered around the desert, waiting to enter the Promised Land. But no matter how tired our feet get, we can focus on what’s happening in our lives right now rather than just on where we’re going. In this five-week series based on stories from Exodus, our families will explore how we can choose to be thankful, love God and others, turn to God when we’re lost, go to God when we need rest, and remember God’s promises.

BIG IDEA: We can turn to God when we’re lost.

BIBLE: Exodus 32:1–14; Philippians 4:4–9

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:19B  (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Jesus makes a way for me!" Isaiah 43:19

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Way Maker and Same God

 

DISCIPLE: Read or summarize Exodus 32:1-14

Play this modified version of "Simon Says." Give your family commands where every movement is designed to get them to a specific destination ("Take two steps to the left," "Hop once to the front," "Turn to your right"). Your family has to follow every command preceded by "Siri Says" but must ignore the others. Anyone who moves when they're not supposed to has to sit down. 

If we were ever lost in the desert, that would be bad news because there aren't a lot of places where we can stop and ask for directions. Now if we had some sort of smart device with a maps app and GPS, we'd have a better chance of finding our way. We could be like, "Hey Siri, where am I?" and right then and there, we'd have help!

When Moses was up on that mountain, God's people got worried and lost. They immediately started turning to other solutions when they could have paused and said, "Hey God, where are you?" We can turn to God when we're lost and trust that God will not only find us, but also give us directions to our destination.

 

PARENT DEVOTIONAL

10.12 Family Experience Resources

Are We There Yet? - Week 2

Can you imagine needing to walk through the desert? You’d be surrounded by cacti, sand, snakes, and more sand. With the heat of the sun, we’d wind up so thirsty and wondering “Are we there yet?” That’s probably how the Israelites felt as they wandered around the desert, waiting to enter the Promised Land. But no matter how tired our feet get, we can focus on what’s happening in our lives right now rather than just on where we’re going. In this five-week series based on stories from Exodus, our families will explore how we can choose to be thankful, love God and others, turn to God when we’re lost, go to God when we need rest, and remember God’s promises.

BIG IDEA: We can love God and others.

BIBLE: Exodus 20:1–4, 7–9, 12–20; Matthew 22:34–40

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:19B  (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Jesus makes a way for me!" Isaiah 43:19

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Way Maker and Same God

 

DISCIPLE: Read or summarize Exodus 20:1-4; 7-9; 12-20. 

  • Prepare a large cutout of a heart. Write "God" on one side and "Others" on the other side. 

  • God’s rules tell us how to love God and love others. Sometimes it’s hard to do both when we don’t follow God’s rules. God gave us these commandments to help us see how God loves. God doesn't love part-way. God always loves completely. 

  • When we don’t show love to people or God, it breaks God’s heart and it breaks our hearts too. (Tear the heart in half.)

  • Sometimes it can be really hard to love the people right in front of us. Maybe you can think of a time recently when you haven't been loving to a friend, sibling, or parent. As we learn to love those around us, we learn to love God. 

  • The flip side of that is true too. As we keep learning to love God, we are better able to love others. 

  • God loves completely, so we can trust that when we don't feel like we can love completely, God will help us by providing guidance for our us. As we follow God's commandments, we will see our love for God and others come together and grow.

    • Love God. (Hold up the "God" half of the heart.)

    • Love others. (Hold up the "Others" half of the heart and tape it together with the other part to complete the heart.)

  • Even though it might seem difficult sometimes, with God's help, we can love God and others. 

 

PARENT DEVOTIONAL

10.5 Family Experience Resources

Are We There Yet? - Week 1

Can you imagine needing to walk through the desert? You’d be surrounded by cacti, sand, snakes, and more sand. With the heat of the sun, we’d wind up so thirsty and wondering “Are we there yet?” That’s probably how the Israelites felt as they wandered around the desert, waiting to enter the Promised Land. But no matter how tired our feet get, we can focus on what’s happening in our lives right now rather than just on where we’re going. In this five-week series based on stories from Exodus, our families will explore how we can choose to be thankful, love God and others, turn to God when we’re lost, go to God when we need rest, and remember God’s promises.

BIG IDEA: We can choose to be thankful.

BIBLE: Exodus 17:1–7; Philippians 2:5–16

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland." Isaiah 43:19B  (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Jesus makes a way for me!" Isaiah 43:19

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Way Maker and Same God

 

DISCIPLE: Read or summarize Exodus 17:1-7

  • Give each family member a small stone.

  • Let's see who can squeeze the most water out of their rock? (Let them try)

  • Were you able to get any water out of your rock?

  • How did Moses get water from the rock in today's Bible story? 

  • God provided water through a miracle. The Israelites started out complaining, but I wonder if they were more thankful after they had water to drink. 

  • Complaining can happen. Sometimes there are difficult things in life and talking about them out loud helps us process what's happening to us. But even when we have every right to complain, we can choose thankfulness instead.

PARENT DEVOTIONAL

9.28 Family Experience Resources

Lead the way - Week 4

In the jungle, every day is an unpredictable adventure! But to safely navigate the vines, animals, and tricky terrain, we’ll need a guide to help lead us. This four-week series follows the life of Moses and his journey to leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Through his story, our families discover how God teaches us how to lead, and learn how to follow God’s lead as God leads us to safety, and to what we need.

BIG IDEA: God will lead us to what we need.

BIBLE: Exodus 15:22–25, 16:1–16; Isaiah 41:17–20

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths." Psalm 25:4 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God, teach me to follow you!" Psalm 25:4

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video 

SONG: Trust in the Lord and I have Decided to Follow Jesus

DISCIPLE:

Hide pretend food (scrapes of colored paper) around your house. Have your kids find and collect the food. If you want to play again, rotate family members hiding the food while the rest search and find. Challenge your kids by using a timer or make it a race to see who can collect the most food.

 

Say, great job, explorers! You collected enough "food" to feed some grumpy monkeys out in the jungle who were getting very hungry. What sound do happy monkeys make? 

 

God’s people were grumpy because they needed food. But they didn’t have to look far — they just had to look to God. God gave them enough food for every day and God will lead us to what we need, too!

 

Pray: God, thank you for leading the way. You give us everything we need and more, so we can always trust in you. Amen.

 

Parent Devotional

9.21 Family Experience Resources

Lead the way - Week 3

In the jungle, every day is an unpredictable adventure! But to safely navigate the vines, animals, and tricky terrain, we’ll need a guide to help lead us. This four-week series follows the life of Moses and his journey to leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Through his story, our families discover how God teaches us how to lead, and learn how to follow God’s lead as God leads us to safety, and to what we need.

BIG IDEA: God leads us to safety.

BIBLE: Exodus 13:17–15:21; Psalm 91

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths." Psalm 25:4 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God, teach me to follow you!" Psalm 25:4

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Trust in the Lord and I have Decided to Follow Jesus

DISCIPLE:

Read or paraphrase Exodus 13:17-15:21. 

Next, lay blue construction paper over a large portion of a room in your house. Place brown pillow cushions or construction paper one step away from each other. Your family will need to step and jump only on the brown steps and not in the water to get to safety. The game is complete when all family members have crossed to the other side.

Say: .Let’s pretend we are stuck in the middle of the jungle and have come across a pretty big cliff with water under it. We need to get to the other side, and this is the only way to safety.

 

In our story today, God’s people were stuck in a scary situation. Pharaoh’s army was chasing them from the back, and there was the huge Red Sea in the front. But God made a way through the water to keep the people safe.God leads us to safety.

 

Pray: God, thank you for leading the way. When we are scared or lost, you always lead us to safety. Amen

 

Parent Devotional

9.14 Family Experience Resources

Lead the way - Week 2

In the jungle, every day is an unpredictable adventure! But to safely navigate the vines, animals, and tricky terrain, we’ll need a guide to help lead us. This four-week series follows the life of Moses and his journey to leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Through his story, our families discover how God teaches us how to lead, and learn how to follow God’s lead as God leads us to safety, and to what we need.

BIG IDEA: We follow God’s lead.

BIBLE: Exodus 7:14–10:29, 12:1–14; 1 Peter 1:13–21

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths." Psalm 25:4 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God, teach me to follow you!" Psalm 25:4

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Trust in the Lord and I have Decided to Follow Jesus

 

DISCIPLE:

Read or paraphrase Exodus 7:14-10:29, 12:1-14 

 

Print or project the images from the printable. For each image, have your family yell out “plague” if it’s one of the ten plagues from the Bible story or “fake” if it’s not. Help your kids keep guessing and give hints if needed until all ten plagues have been guessed. 

 

Pharaoh didn’t want to let God’s people go. Each time Pharaoh said no, a terrible plague came upon the land. Which of these is one of the plagues we learned about? Pharaoh didn’t follow God’s lead, but God’s people did, so they were safe from the plagues. We follow God’s lead.

 

Pray: God, thank you for leading the way. Help us to follow your lead no matter what comes our way. Amen.

 

Parent Devotional

9.7 Family Experience Resources

Lead the way - Week 1

In the jungle, every day is an unpredictable adventure! But to safely navigate the vines, animals, and tricky terrain, we’ll need a guide to help lead us. This four-week series follows the life of Moses and his journey to leading the Israelites out of Egypt. Through his story, our families discover how God teaches us how to lead, and learn how to follow God’s lead as God leads us to safety, and to what we need.

BIG IDEA: God teaches us how to lead.

BIBLE: Exodus 2–3:15; Romans 12:9–21

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:   "Show me your ways, Lord, teach me your paths." Psalm 25:4 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God, teach me to follow you!" Psalm 25:4

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Trust in the Lord and I have Decided to Follow Jesus

 

DISCIPLE:

Read or paraphrase Exodus 2-3:15.

In this activity, your families will call each other’s names to lead them out of the “ jungle.” You can use a play tunnel or tape together a few cardboard boxes make one yourself. Have one family member enter the tunnel at a time, wearing a blindfold. Have a one family member call the name of another from the opposite end of the tunnel to help them find their way out. For more fun, play the song, “Thank You Lord for Making Me,” and act out the jungle animal sounds and movements with your family as you sing together. 

 

God called Moses to lead his people to be free and safe. Moses didn’t think he could be a good leader, but God told him it was okay — God would show him how to do it. God teaches us how to lead.

 

Pray: Dear God, thank you for leading the way. Please teach us how to lead our friends and family to you. Amen. 

 

Parent Devotional

8.31 Family Experience Resources

Recess - Week 5

For a lot of us, recess is one of our favorite parts of our kids school day. Our kiddos get to play dodgeball, hopscotch, or race friends around the play area. Recess helps our kids to stay active so they can grow strong, but it also gives them a chance to grow in their relationships. In this five-week series, our families will discover through the stories in the books of Judges, Ruth, and 1 Samuel the unexpected ways God can help them grow. As they do, they’ll learn how God helps us grow stronger, helps us belong, answers our prayers, tells us what is true, and can use anything we give.

BIG IDEA: God can use anything I give.

BIBLE: 1 Samuel 9–10:1; 2 Corinthians 8:7–15

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called the children of God." 1 John 3:1A (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "We are part of God's loving family." 1 John 3:1

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG:  Friend of God, and In You Alone

 

DISCIPLE:

It’s time to slow down and think about everything we talked about today.

Let’s practice taking in some deep breaths as we focus on the word “give.”

Let’s breathe as we say the Big Idea.

Breathe in — God

Breathe out — can

Breathe in — use

Breathe out — anything

Breathe in — I

Breathe out — give.

Now say all the words that come to mind when you hear the word “give.”

Why do you think God wants us to give?

Should we only give when there’s something in it for us? How come?

If we could build a playground that wasn’t just for play but was a place where giving happened, what would it look like?

(This activity might have been imaginary but the use of your gifts to help others is not). What are some gifts you have that you can give to God?

How do you think God can use it? 

Because you know God will use it . .. God can use anything I give!
Pray: Dear God, thank you for freely giving us the best gift ever — Jesus. Help us to open our hands and to give the gifts you’ve given us willingly to those around us because you can use anything we give. We love you. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

8.24 Family Experience Resources

Recess - Week 4

For a lot of us, recess is one of our favorite parts of our kids school day. Our kiddos get to play dodgeball, hopscotch, or race friends around the play area. Recess helps our kids to stay active so they can grow strong, but it also gives them a chance to grow in their relationships. In this five-week series, our families will discover through the stories in the books of Judges, Ruth, and 1 Samuel the unexpected ways God can help them grow. As they do, they’ll learn how God helps us grow stronger, helps us belong, answers our prayers, tells us what is true, and can use anything we give.

BIG IDEA: God tells me what is true.

BIBLE: 1 Samuel 3:1–20; Job 38:1–11

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!"  1 John 3:1A (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "We are part of God's loving family!" 1 John 3:1

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG:  Friend of God, and In You Alone

 

DISCIPLE:

It’s time to slow down and think about everything we talked about today. Researchers say the average person has 6,200 thoughts per day! That’s a lot! We get thoughts from friends, movies or shows, books we’ve read, social media, family . . . everywhere.

If we’re not careful, we can believe that all the thoughts that pop into our heads are true. They might help us understand what we’re feeling, but God helps us know what’s true when we are confused, worried, or unsure.

Let’s practice taking in some deep breaths as we focus on the word “true.”

Samuel wasn’t sure where the voice was coming from in the middle of the night at first. Once he learned it was God, he listened to what God had to say. It wasn’t happy news he received, but God gave him words to let him know what his job would be in the future.

Sometimes we can hurt people when we don’t tell them the truth. Even when we think we’re trying to protect them, when we lie or cover up the truth, it often does more damage than good. Even when the truth you need to speak is hard to say, you can find a way to deliver it in a kind way.

What are some examples of when you might have to tell someone something true from God? 

God tells me what is true, and that means I need to tell others what is true, too.
Pray: Dear God, in a world full of so much information, we are so thankful that you tell us what is true. Help us to hear your voice and choose the truth over what is harmful or wrong. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

 

8.17 Family Experience Resources

Recess - Week 3

For a lot of us, recess is one of our favorite parts of our kids school day. Our kiddos get to play dodgeball, hopscotch, or race friends around the play area. Recess helps our kids to stay active so they can grow strong, but it also gives them a chance to grow in their relationships. In this five-week series, our families will discover through the stories in the books of Judges, Ruth, and 1 Samuel the unexpected ways God can help them grow. As they do, they’ll learn how God helps us grow stronger, helps us belong, answers our prayers, tells us what is true, and can use anything we give.

BIG IDEA: God answers my prayers.

BIBLE: 1 Samuel 1; Psalm 20

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!"  1 John 3:1A (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: "We are part of God's loving family!" 1 John 3:1

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG:  Friend of God, and In You Alone

 

DISCIPLE:

Let's get into “prayer mode” by slowing down our breathing and clearing our minds. Let’s practice taking in some deep breaths as we focus on the word “prayer.” Keeping your palms together like prayer hands, reach straight up and breathe in. Separate your hands and move your arms down to your side and breathe out. Let’s try this a few more times.

Now say all the words that come to mind when you hear the word “prayer.”

What are some things you pray for?

How does God answer our prayers? How can we respond when the answer is “no” or “not now?”

Today's Bible story is about how God hears our prayers. For some people, this is very easy to believe and understand. Maybe you have even experienced the joy of an answered prayer! For others, we may feel like our prayers are going nowhere, and we are growing tired of praying the same prayers. God hears and

answers your prayers.

Even when it doesn’t feel like much is happening on the surface, God is in your corner. God answers my prayers, and God answers yours, too!
Pray: Dear God, thank you that you answer our prayers. You hear us when we cry out to you, and even when the answer doesn’t come as fast as we’d like or it’s not the answer we expected, help us to trust that you give us what is best. Thank you for being with us, for remembering us, and for loving us. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

 

8.10 Family Experience Resources

Recess - Week 2

For a lot of us, recess is one of our favorite parts of our kids school day. Our kiddos get to play dodgeball, hopscotch, or race friends around the play area. Recess helps our kids to stay active so they can grow strong, but it also gives them a chance to grow in their relationships. In this five-week series, our families will discover through the stories in the books of Judges, Ruth, and 1 Samuel the unexpected ways God can help them grow. As they do, they’ll learn how God helps us grow stronger, helps us belong, answers our prayers, tells us what is true, and can use anything we give.

BIG IDEA: God helps me belong.

BIBLE: Ruth 1; Mark 3:31–35

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!"  1 John 3:1A (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "We are part of God's loving family!" 1 John 3:1

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG:  Friend of God, and In You Alone

 

DISCIPLE:

Whenever you feel any kind of anxiety or negative emotion, the first thing you can do is take deep breaths.

Let’s practice taking in some deep breaths as we focus on the word “belong.”

Now say all the words that come to mind when you hear the word “belong.”

What do you think it means to belong?

How does God help you belong?

Give each family member a puzzle piece. Look at your puzzle piece. Your piece might not match or fit with another person’s piece. In fact, there are only a few pieces that your piece really fits together with — and that’s okay. All the pieces are part of the same puzzle. Even when you don’t fit together, you belong together. Just like how we all belong in God’s family!

So when we say, “God helps me belong,” that means God welcomes you and loves you exactly as you are. God will surround you with people who will do their best to remind you of your belonging.

Ask: When a new “puzzle piece” shows up, what can you do to help them belong?
Pray: Dear God, thank you for helping me belong. Even when I feel alone in this world, I know I am never truly alone. I belong in your family, and I can welcome others to join in. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

 

8.3 Family Experience Resources

Recess - Week 1

For a lot of us, recess is one of our favorite parts of our kids school day. Our kiddos get to play dodgeball, hopscotch, or race friends around the play area. Recess helps our kids to stay active so they can grow strong, but it also gives them a chance to grow in their relationships. In this five-week series, our families will discover through the stories in the books of Judges, Ruth, and 1 Samuel the unexpected ways God can help them grow. As they do, they’ll learn how God helps us grow stronger, helps us belong, answers our prayers, tells us what is true, and can use anything we give.

BIG IDEA: God helps me grow stronger.

BIBLE: Judges 6–7; 2 Corinthians 4:5–9

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "See what great love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!"  1 John 3:1A (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "We are part of God's loving family!" 1 John 3:1

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Friend of God, and In You Alone

 

DISCIPLE:

All athletes know that breathing is important in sports — even playground sports. God designed us that way!

When God created the first human, Adam, God gave him the breath of life. When we breathe, our bodies take in oxygen, which our blood carries to all our muscles to keep everything inside our bodies moving. Breathing keeps us alive.

Practice taking in some deep breaths as we focus on the word “strength.”

Breathe in through your nose for five seconds — Hold it for five seconds — 

Breathe out through your mouth for ten seconds — Try this a few more times.

Now say all the words that come to mind when you hear the word “strength.”

What does it mean to be strong?

How does God help us grow stronger?

God helps us grow stronger but not if we just sit around doing nothing. When Gideon found out God would help him defeat the Midianites, he jumped to action.

Let’s make a family plan for how we can grow stronger with God’s help this week.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for helping us grow stronger. Help us to trust you, to obey you, and to grow in wisdom and strength every day. Your love makes us strong. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

 

7.27 Family Experience Resources

Turn it Up - Week 4

What do you do when you hear your favorite song? Turn it up, of course! While we might love blasting our favorite music, we can also learn how to turn up God’s voice in our lives. In this four-week series, our families will follow some key moments in the life of David, the famous musician, poet, and king, and we’ll learn about some of the ways David trusted God during some difficult times in his life. Through each story, we’ll learn God is with us when we feel weak, God helps us overcome big things, God comforts us when we’re afraid, and God helps us live in harmony.

BIG IDEA: God, help us live in harmony.

BIBLE: 1 Samuel 24; Ephesians 3:14–21

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make a music to our God on the harp." Psalm 147:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Sing praises to God!" Psalm 147:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: God is for Me and 10,000 Armies

 

DISCIPLE:

Watch a video of two people singing in harmony on a music show. Check out this one from Korean game show I Can See Your Voice (start at 1:06).

 

Previously on this show, the guest musician and the audience had to choose if they thought the contestant could carry a tune. So imagine the shock when the contestant turned out to be a phenomenal singer! What's more, he was able to harmonize seamlessly with the guest musician! 

What did you like about the video?

What words would you describe how the two singers sounded when they sang together?

A lot of times, what gets in the way of harmony is when we are quick to judge other people. We make decisions and draw conclusions about people without really getting to know them or without giving them a fair chance. 

When would you find it difficult to be in harmony with somebody? 

Why is it better to get along and live in harmony? 


Pray: God, sometimes it is hard for me to love those around me, but with your help, I can live in harmony with others. Help me look past differences and disagreements and learn to make peace, like beautiful music to your ears. Amen.

 

Parent Devotional

 

7.20 Family Experience Resources

Turn it Up - Week 3

What do you do when you hear your favorite song? Turn it up, of course! While we might love blasting our favorite music, we can also learn how to turn up God’s voice in our lives. In this four-week series, our families will follow some key moments in the life of David, the famous musician, poet, and king, and we’ll learn about some of the ways David trusted God during some difficult times in his life. Through each story, we’ll learn God is with us when we feel weak, God helps us overcome big things, God comforts us when we’re afraid, and God helps us live in harmony.

BIG IDEA: God, you comfort me when I’m afraid.

BIBLE: 1 Samuel 16:14–23, 18:1–16; Psalm 23

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make a music to our God on the harp." Psalm 147:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Sing praises to God!" Psalm 147:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: God is for Me and 10,000 Armies

 

DISCIPLE:

Read Psalm 23

This is another psalm that David wrote and it might be the most famous one of them all. I think it is pretty cool that he wrote that God was his shepherd, especially since David knew personally what it was like to be a shepherd.

While Psalm 24 reminded us of God's protection and how God helps us overcome big things, Psalm 23 reminds us that God helps us feel comfort and at peace.

While the sheep slept, the shepherd would watch out for danger. The sheep could sleep in comfort because they knew they were taken care of. 

Remember how Jesus called himself the "Good Shepherd?" Not only does Jesus promise to protect us, but he also tells us that we can be calm and not worry. We don't have to be afraid. Jesus calmed storms and healed the sick, but he also became friends with everyone wherever he went. Jesus even showed kindness and care to people who other people ignored. Everyone who met Jesus felt supported and comforted by him. Jesus calmed their fears and reminded everyone that they could rest in his love. 

We don't have to fear any evil, because our Good Shepherd is with us. God, you comfort me when I’m afraid.

Pray: God, thank You for being our Good Shepherd. We can always come to you when we are afraid or unsure. Even in the most difficult times, you will comfort us. Amen.

 

Parent Devotional

 

7.13 Family Experience Resources

Turn it Up - Week 2

What do you do when you hear your favorite song? Turn it up, of course! While we might love blasting our favorite music, we can also learn how to turn up God’s voice in our lives. In this four-week series, our families will follow some key moments in the life of David, the famous musician, poet, and king, and we’ll learn about some of the ways David trusted God during some difficult times in his life. Through each story, we’ll learn God is with us when we feel weak, God helps us overcome big things, God comforts us when we’re afraid, and God helps us live in harmony.

BIG IDEA: God, you help me overcome big things.

BIBLE: 1 Samuel 17:1–50; Psalm 24

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make a music to our God on the harp." Psalm 147:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Sing praises to God!" Psalm 147:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: God is for Me and 10,000 Armies

 

DISCIPLE:

Read Psalm 24

David, the young man who faced Goliath, wrote this psalm later in his life. In this psalm, David writes about the importance of not trusting in an idol or false gods. In David's day, there were a lot of people who looked to sources other than God for protection and strength, but David knew that the only one who would help him overcome big things was God.

This psalm describes God as strong and mighty in battle. David experienced God's strength firsthand when he faced Goliath. Facing Goliath felt impossible, but he trusted in God to protect him. 

We can trust that God will protect and take care of us too. When God sent Jesus to earth, Jesus called himself the "Good Shepherd." He said he laid down his life so that his sheep — you and me — could be safe. 

Jesus wants what is best for us. Instead of looking to other things that can become idols (popularity, money, or having the newest, greatest stuff) we can turn to God. We can trust that God alone can help us overcome big things. Jesus, our Good Shepherd, will protect us in the battles of life. 

God, you help me overcome big things. 

Pray: God, there are a lot of things that make us feel nervous or afraid, but we are safe to take risks with you. Thank you for helping us overcome big things. Amen.

 

Parent Devotional

 

7.6 Family Experience Resources

Turn it Up - Week 1

What do you do when you hear your favorite song? Turn it up, of course! While we might love blasting our favorite music, we can also learn how to turn up God’s voice in our lives. In this four-week series, our families will follow some key moments in the life of David, the famous musician, poet, and king, and we’ll learn about some of the ways David trusted God during some difficult times in his life. Through each story, we’ll learn God is with us when we feel weak, God helps us overcome big things, God comforts us when we’re afraid, and God helps us live in harmony.

BIG IDEA: God, you’re with me when I feel weak.

BIBLE: 1 Samuel 15:1–23, 16:1–13; 2 Corinthians 12:9–10

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "Sing to the Lord with grateful praise; make a music to our God on the harp." Psalm 147:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "Sing praises to God!" Psalm 147:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: God is for Me and 10,000 Armies

DISCIPLE:

When we feel weak, we may feel small and quiet. When we're asked to step up in a big way, like to become a leader, an older sibling, or a team captain, we might feel afraid. We may feel like we don't have what it takes to get through tough circumstances, but God is always here to help us, because when we are weak, God is strong.

One way God helps us when we're weak is by surrounding us with people who believe in us and support us. It's like being part of a band! 

Who are the people in your life that you can go to when you're feeling weak? 

Pretend you're in a band with your friends here. You have all been picked to share your talent at the Turn It Up World Tour! To start off strong, come up with a band name! 

Write your band name down on paper and draw a picture of what your awesome band looks like. Then write the big idea at the top of the page! God, you're with me when I'm weak!


Pray: God, thank you that even when things seem hard, we can trust you to be with us. You give us courage to follow you, even when we feel like we don't have what it takes. Thank you for being with us when we feel weak. Amen. 

 

Parent Devotional

 

6.29 Family Experience Resources

In Your Dreams - Week 5

As the sun sets and you nod off the sleep, an entire nighttime world awakens. Along with our dreams and slumber, the night can also mean shadows and unfamiliar sounds. Who makes us feel safe when the world is dark and scary? 

In this four-week series based on the life of Joseph, our families will learn about how God watches over us and loves everyone the same. No matter what we go through, God will make things right, which is why we can obey God above anyone else. 

BIG IDEA: We can obey God above anyone else. 

BIBLE: Genesis 50:22–Exodus 1

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "By day the Lord directs His love, at night his song is with me."  Palm 42:8A (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: "God is with me, night and day!" Psalm 42:8

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Never Let Go of Me

 

DISCIPLE:

Read or summarize the Bible story from Genesis 50:22- Exodus 1 

Next, ask you family the following questions...

 

Would you rather be a bat or an owl?

Would you rather sleep in a tree or on the ground in a tent?

Would you rather brush your teeth with strawberry or avocado toothpaste?

Would you rather go to the sun or the moon?

Would you rather be a police officer or a construction worker?

Would you rather have a pet snake or a porcupine?

Would you rather be invisible or be able to fly?

Would you rather take a skunk for a walk or a tarantula?

Would you rather sleep during the day or during the night?

 

It‘s easy to choose from silly choices that are just for fun. But some choices are really hard to make. In this week's bible story we learned that we can always make the right choice when we follow God. 


Pray: Dear God, thank you for showing us how to make the right choice. We want to obey you above anyone else! Amen.

 

Parent Devotional