Each week we feature a family devotional for children tied to sunday's messagE Taught at grace city kids!  

Each section of the devotionals can be done all on the same day, but we recommend you do one per day, every other day.  The Brainstorm portion goes along with the memory verse and ties directly to Sunday's lesson.  Activities 1 and 2 also go along with the lesson, but are an extension of what we learned at church.  They can each be done on separate days- and you can skip the craft or activity at the end of each one if you want to!  It's just for fun!  Alternately, you can just choose your favorite activity and stick to that!  The main point is that you're in God's word together as a family!

At the Cross

Brainstorm: Why did Jesus die on the cross?  Who should've been punished for their sins instead of Jesus?  What can we do now that our sins are forgiven?  Is the cross the end of the story?

Activity 1: Read Mark 15:16-20  Jesus wasn't just crucified- He was mistreated first by the entire regiment of soldiers.  What did they do to Him?  Read Mark 15:21-22  Jesus was so abused He couldn't carry the cross the whole way up the hill where He was crucified- who was forced to carry it for Him?  Read Mark 15:24-32  People mocked and yelled insults at Jesus as He hung on the cross- could He have just proved them all wrong and come down?  Why didn't He?

Activity 2: Read Mark 15:33-34  Since most people couldn't read in Jesus' day, Jewish teachers used to quote the first part of a verse, and the people listening would say the rest of it from memory.  On the cross, Jesus says "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" which is the first part of Psalm 22.  Read Psalm 22 and discuss the parts that describe what Jesus was experiencing on the cross.  Read Mark 15:35-38  The curtain in the Temple sanctuary separated the presence of God from everyone else.  Nobody was allowed to be in God's presence except the high priest once a year.  When Jesus died, the curtain was torn in two- what do you think that means?

Pray!

Before the Cross

Weekly Memory Verse: John 3:16  For God so loved the world, He gave His only son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.

Brainstorm:  Who needs Jesus?  Who did God love and send Jesus to save according to our memory verse?  What does the verse mean by "the world"?  What do you have to do to be saved (forgiven from your sins- or all of the things you've done wrong)?  Have you ever prayed and asked Jesus to forgive you and chosen to follow Him as the Lord of your life?  If not, talk to your parents or guardians about it!

Activity 1: Read Matthew 26:36-38  How did Jesus feel knowing He was about to face the cross?  Read Matthew 26:39  What did Jesus ask God to do?  What does the last sentence of this verse teach you about Jesus?  Read Matthew 26:40-49  How did Judas let the people coming to arrest Jesus know who He was?  Read Matthew 26:50  What was Jesus' response?  Read Matthew 26:55-56  The soldiers could've arrested Jesus any day- He was always teaching in the temple.  When did they choose to arrest Him instead?  Why do you think they chose to arrest Him in the middle of the night?  (ie. He was innocent and they didn't want crowds of His followers at the temple to get mad at them for arresting Him)

Activity 2:  Read Matthew 26:57  Where did the people who arrested Jesus take Him?  Why didn't they take Him to the leader of the government instead?  (ie. the religious leaders were the ones who didn't agree with Jesus and thought He was dangerous, not the government officials)  Read Matthew 26:58-59  Jesus was innocent so how did the religious leaders try to get Him killed at first according to these verses?  Read Matthew 26:60-61  What "charges" were brought against Jesus (what did they say He'd done wrong?)?  Read Matthew 26:62-64  What was Jesus accused of saying in these verses?  How did He respond?  Why do you think the Pharisees didn't believe Him?  Read Matthew 26:65-66  What was the verdict against Jesus for saying He was the Messiah- God's son come to save the world?  Read Matthew 26:53-54 Why didn't Jesus stop them from killing Him?

Pray!

Do as Jesus Would Do

Weekly Memory Verse: John 13:15  I have given you an example to follow.  Do as I have done to you.

Brainstorm: Our memory verse is a quote Jesus said- "I have given you an example to follow.  Do as I have done to you."  What example did Jesus set for us during His life on Earth?  Try to think of 3 things (hint: we learned about one of them at church this week!)  How can we "do as Jesus has done" in our own lives?

Activity 1:  Read John 13:1-17  This week we learned that washing feet was extra gross back in Jesus' day with dirt roads and animal poo everywhere!  It was a job only servants did because they were told to- so why do you think Jesus washed His disciples' feet (verses 8 and 14-15)?  Jesus set the example for His disciples and for us.  Since we are His disciples too, we should care for and serve one another like He served His first disciples.  How can you care for or serve others like Jesus did?  One way is by washing each other's feet, just like Jesus did for His disciples!  Take turns washing your family members' feet (for example: mom wash dad's, dad wash son's, son wash sister's, sister wash mom's).  Then talk about how it felt to have your feet washed and how it felt to do the washing.

Activity 2:  Read Matthew 26:17-25 How do you think Jesus felt knowing one of His best friends would betray Him?  Why didn't He stop Judas?  Read Matthew 26:26-30  Was the bread really Jesus' body and the wine His blood?  What did Jesus mean in these verses?  Read Luke 22:24-27  This verse in Luke also happens during the passover meal.  How is Jesus' answer to the disciples' question similar to what He did for them in John 13 (when He washed their feet)?  What do you think "the leader should be like a servant" means?  How can you show that in your own life?

Pray!

Who Did Jesus Come to Save?

Weekly Memory Verse:  Romans 3:23 For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.

Brainstorm: According to our memory verse, who needs Jesus?  Who did Jesus come to save?  Do we have to be perfect to follow Jesus?  Do we have to be perfect to be in the presence of our perfect God?  How do we become perfect (hint: there's only ONE way that it's possible!)?

Activity 1: Read Mark 14:3-9  How much money was the perfume the woman poured out worth?  How did people react when she just dumped it out over Jesus (verse 4)?  Do you think that their thinking was correct?  Why or why not?  How did Jesus respond to those who criticized the woman (verse 7)?  Why did Jesus say she had done this (verse 8)?  Have you ever showed your love for Jesus in a big way like this woman did?  How can you show your gratitude for Christ's forgiveness this Easter season and every day?

Activity 2: Read John's version of this same story in John 12:1-8  This account actually names the people in the story- Mary was the one who anointed Jesus.  Read Luke 10:38-42 to learn more about who Mary was.  What did Mary do in this story?  What did her sister Martha think of it?  What was Jesus' response to Martha?  What does that teach you about how Mary felt about Jesus even before she anointed Him?  What does that teach you about what the world (Martha) values versus what Jesus values?  What "one thing" did Mary discover?  We also learn in John 12 that Judas was the one (or one of the many) who complained about Mary's sacrifice.  Was Judas (the one who would later betray Jesus to the Pharisees for money) really concerned about the poor (verse 6)?  What was the one thing Judas was most concerned with according to verse 6?  What lessons can we learn from this story?

Pray! 

How Jesus Loved Others

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 John 3:16 By this we know love, that He laid down His life for us.

Brainstorm: How did Jesus show love like it's described in our memory verse?  What are some ways Jesus has shown you love in your own life?  Has anyone ever shown you big love like Jesus showed people?  Tell about it!

Activity 1: Jesus showed love by helping people whenever He could.  Read Mark 1:29-34, Mark 2:1-12, Mark 7:32-35 and Mark 10:46-52.  How did Jesus respond to people differently than some of His followers (see Mark 10:48)?  How did Jesus show love by caring for people's needs in these verses?  Is it hard sometimes to be like Jesus and help those in need?  Have you ever behaved like the crowd who told the blind man to "be quiet" when you saw someone in need (for example, sadly I've driven by many hungry people asking for food instead of stopping to buy them a meal)?  We may not be able to say a word and heal paralyzed or sick people, but we can see people's needs and care for them.  What are some needs in your home, at school or in your community that you can meet?  Go show others you love them by serving them like Jesus did!

Activity 2:  Read Mark 6:30-44 and Mark 8:1-10  How did Jesus show love to people in these verses?  Can you show love to others by feeding them?  What are some different ways you can show love by helping to feed other people (or even yourself)?  Show love to your parents by helping them cook dinner tonight and by packing your own snack and/or lunch for school tomorrow! 

Pray!

Loving Others

Weekly Memory Verse: Matthew 7:12  So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.

Brainstorm: Why do you think God commands us to love others in the Bible?  Valentine's Day is this week- how do you plan to show your family and friends that you love them?  How can you show love to others every day?

Activity 1:  Read Matthew 22:34-36  What six ways to show love were mentioned in these verses?  Read Matthew 22:37-39  What were Jesus' followers confused about in these verses?  Read Matthew 22:40  How did Jesus explain what He meant in this verse?  Have you shown love to others in any of the ways listed in verses 34-36?  Have you shown others love in different ways?  Listen to "Luv is a Verb" by DC Talk.  What do you think "love is a verb" means?

Activity 2: Read Mark 12:28  What did the religious leader ask Jesus?  Read Mark 12:29-31  How did Jesus answer him?  Why do you think He added the second greatest commandment as well?  Did you know all of the Ten Commandments fall under one of the two Jesus mentioned- "love God" or "love others"?  Read Exodus 20:3-17  Discuss each command together and decide if it falls under "love God" or "love others".

Pray!

God Loves Us!

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 John 4:19  We love because He first loved us.

Brainstorm:  What does God's love mean to you?  How does it feel to know you are loved by God?  How have you seen or felt God's love in your own life?

Activity 1: Read the following verses and discuss what they teach us about God's love:  Psalm 56:9 (God helps us and is on our side), Psalm 56:8 (He cares about the things that make us sad), Romans 8:38-39 (nothing can ever separate us from God's love- it's forever), Isaiah 46:4 (He made us and cares for us), Romans 5:5 (His love- The Holy Spirit- fills our hearts with His love).

Activity 2: Read Luke 15:11-32  This is a parable- a story Jesus used to teach about God and what He's like.  In this parable the son represents us and the father represents God.  Now that you know this, re-read the parable and think about what it teaches us about God's love for us.  Then answer these questions together:  What did the son do (relate it to what do we do)?  How did the father treat the son when he returned home (relate it to how God treats us)?  What does this teach us about God's love for us?

Pray!

What is Love?

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 13:4 Love is patient, love is kind.  Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude.

Brainstorm: What does love mean to you?  How does God describe love in the Bible?  Is it hard to show love to others all the time?  What can we do when we're having a hard time showing the kind of love 1 Corinthians 13 teaches us about?

Activity 1: Read 1 Corinthians 13:1  What is worthless without love in this verse?  Read 1 Corinthians 13:2 What 4 things are worthless without love in this verse?  Read 1 Corinthians 13:3  What 2 things are worthless without love in this verse?  What does that teach you about how God values love?  Read 1 Corinthians 13:13  What 3 things will last forever according to this verse?  Which one is the greatest?  Why do you think God considers love greater than faith and hope?

Activity 2:  Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 but replace the word "God" for the word "love" in each sentence.  Does God love us with a 1 Corinthians 13:4-7 love?  Explain why you think that by giving examples for each verse (ex. God is patient with me because even when I make mistakes He guides me and corrects me gently instead of striking me down in anger or punishing me.)

Pray!

Supernatural: Battling Evil Forces

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 John 4:4  The spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.

Brainstorm: What spirit is our Bible memory verse for the week talking about?  What do you think "the spirit who lives in the world" is?  What do you remember about the Holy Spirit from our study last week?  Who is stronger- God or the devil and his evil minions?  What works to fight a spiritual battle?  

Activity 1:   Read Ephesians 6:10-12  Who are we fighting against according to these verses?  Can we see the evil powers that we battle?  What does verse 11 say we can do to stand up against evil?  Read Ephesians 6:13  If we put on God's armor, how will the battle against evil end?  Read Ephesians 6:14-17  What are the pieces of God's armor (belt of ____, breastplate of ____, shoes of ____, shield of ____, helmet of ____, sword of ____)?  Read Ephesians 6:18  What else should we do to fight evil?

Activity 2:  The armor of God is a metaphor- it's not real physical armor you can buy or make and wear, but sort of like Jesus' parables, the Bible uses the idea of armor to explain how to protect yourself from the attacks of the enemy.  Discuss how each "piece of armor" (for example peace) from the following verses can help you fight evil:  Ephesians 6:14- Truth, Ephesians 6:14- Righteousness, Ephesians 6:15- Peace, Ephesians 6:16- Faith, Ephesians 6:17- Salvation, Ephesians 6:17- the word of God.  Remember, even though evil is real and we are fighting the spirits of evil every day- GOD has already won the battle because He is all powerful and good!

Pray!

Supernatural: The Holy Spirit

Weekly Memory Verse: Romans 8:11  The spirit of the God who raised Jesus from the dead is living in you.

Brainstorm: What does our verse of the week mean to you?  How does it encourage you?  Who helps us to follow Jesus, even when it may be hard (like when someone is being unkind to you or someone else and you feel God leading you to say something)?  When we feel like we can't do something- like have self control, or patience, or kindness toward a sibling who's bothering us- what can we do?

Activity 1: Lets dive a little more into what the Holy Spirit is.  Read the following verses and talk about what you learned from them about the Holy Spirit.  Isaiah 11:2 (the spirit of the Lord, the spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel, might and knowledge), Acts 2:38 (a gift we receive), 1 Corinthians 6:19 (lives in us), Acts 1:8 (is powerful), , Romans 5:5 (the Holy Spirit is God's love).

Activity 2: What does the Holy Spirit do?  Read the following verses and talk about what the Holy Spirit does for us.  John 14:26 (helps us remember God's teaching), Romans 8:26 (helps us pray/helps us in our weakness), 2 Corinthians 3:17 (sets us free), Romans 15:13 (gives us hope), John 16:8 (convicts us of our sin/lets us know when we've sinned or are about to sin), Ezekiel 36:27 (helps us follow God's rules), 1 Corinthians 2:13 (gives us wisdom about God).  I don't know about you, but my biggest take away from this is that we don't follow Jesus by trying to be good all on our own- instead, God gives us His very own spirit (the spirit that was powerful enough to raise Jesus from the dead) to help us know Him better, and follow Him more closely every day!  How amazing is that!?

Pray!

Supernatural: Miracles

Weekly Memory Verse: Romans 8:28  In all things God works for the good of those who love Him.

Brainstorm:  Does God always answer our prayers the way we think He should?  Why not?  What are some "modern day miracles" that we see happening in today's age?  Have you ever experienced a miracle- either an "instant miracle" like a healing when someone was hopelessly hurt or sick, or a "long term miracle" like Joseph experienced, where God takes years to turn something bad that happened into something good?  What are some other stories in the Bible that talk about miracles God performed?

Activity 1: Read Genesis 18:9-11  What miracle was predicted in these verses?  Read Genesis 21:1-3  Did the miracle happen?  Read 1 Samuel 1:2-11 and 1 Samuel 1:20.  Did Hannah have any children?  Did she want children?  What did she ask the Lord for?  How can you tell that she wanted children more than anything else, even though she wasn't able to have any (verses 10-11)?  Did God perform a miracle and allow her to finally be a mom (verse 20)?  Read Luke 1:6-14 and Luke 1:24  Was Elizabeth able to have children (verse 7)?  Did God perform a miracle so that she could have a baby?  Do you think miracles similar to this still happen today (women having babies after being told by doctors that they can't?)  

Activity 2: Read Matthew 14:15-21  What miracle did Jesus perform in these verses?  Have you ever fed someone who was hungry, or cared for those in need in a different way?  Do you think that maybe God used you to be their miracle when they were in a desperate situation, like He used Jesus to feed the 5,000 men in these verses?  Miracles don't always have to be big and grand- God works miracles in the small everyday things too, like when God stirs your heart to speak a kind word to someone who desperately needs it and you obey, or standing up for someone who's being bullied, or caring for His people when they're in need.  Look for ways that you can be someone's miracle this week- let God use you to change the world for good!

Pray!

Supernatural: Angels

Weekly Memory Verse: Hebrews 1:14  All angels are sprits who serve.  God sends them to serve those who will receive salvation.

Brainstorm: What do you know about angels?  What have you learned about angels from our culture (from movies, books, etc.)?  What have you learned about angels from the Bible?  Do you have any questions about angels?  What else would you like to learn about them?

Activity 1: The Bible has many verses that teach about what God's angels do.  Read each one and discuss what it teaches you about angels and their purpose.  Psalm 91:11 (they guard us), Daniel 6:22 (they save us from harm), Luke 1:19 (they bring people messages from God), Luke 15:10 (they rejoice when people turn to God), Luke 20:36 (they can't die), Revelation 12:7 (they fight evil), Revelation 5:11-12 (they gather by the thousands and praise God), Psalm 103:20 (they obey God and follow His word), Matthew 16:27 (they will come back with Jesus and reward people for the good they've done).  Listen to "Entertaining Angels" by the Newsboys. 

Activity 2: The Bible also has clues about what angels look like.  Read the following verses and discuss what it teaches you about how angels look.  Revelation 4:8 (they have 6 wings and are covered in eyes), Isaiah 6:2 (they cover their faces with 2 wings, their feet with 2 and fly with 2), John 20:11-12 (they wear white), Matthew 28: 3 (their appearance is like lightning), Daniel 10:5-6 (they can look like men, with eyes like flaming torches, gleaming arms and legs and very loud voices), Hebrews 13:2 (sometimes they're among us and we can't see them/they can be invisible).  Draw a picture of what you think angels look like based on what you read in the Bible today. 

Pray!

The Christmas Story: Review

Weekly Memory Verse:  Luke 2:7  And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths and laid Him in a manger.

Brainstorm: This week in class we watched the classic Christmas movie "Small One".  How was the movie "Small One" like the first Christmas we read about in the Bible?  How was it different?

Activity 1:  Since this is the week leading up to Christmas and I know people are busy and possibly traveling, I'm only going to do one longer fun activity this week!  As a review of all we've learned about the first Christmas, watch the movie "The Star" (a cartoon movie about the first Christmas) as a family.  Pop popcorn and make hot cocoa to add to the fun!  When the movie is over, talk about how it is the same as the real first Christmas in the Bible (the angel coming to Mary and Joseph, the journey to Bethlehem, baby Jesus being born in a stable etc.), as well as how it is different (talking animals, the wisemen show up right when Jesus is born, etc.)

Pray!

The Wise Men Visit Jesus

Weekly Memory Verse: John 3:16 For God so loved the world, He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.

Brainstorm: Read our memory verse.  Who did God love?  Was it just the people of Israel?  Or just you and me?  Who did God send to save us?  How many sons does it say God has?  What does that teach you about how unique and special Jesus is?  How do we get everlasting life with God?  Can we do anything to earn it?

Activity 1:  Read Matthew 2:1-2  How many wise men were there according to verse 1?  Why do you think we traditionally say three?  (think about how many gifts they give Jesus for a hint!)  Read Matthew 2:3-6  How did King Herod react to hearing about Jesus's birth?  Where was Jesus born?  Read Micah 5:2 and 2 Samuel 5:2  These verses were written hundreds of years before Jesus's birth, where do they say Jesus will be born?  Read Matthew 2:7-8  Do you think King Herod really wanted to worship Jesus?  Why do you think Herod really wanted to find Jesus?  Read Matthew 2:9-11  How did the wise men find Jesus?  What did they give Him?  Read Matthew 2:12  Why didn't the wise men return to Herod?  Wise Men Craft:  Decorate some popsicle sticks to look like the wise men using markers, paint, glitter, construction paper or anything you have around the house.

Activity 2:  Did you know at least 100 verses in the Old Testament tell about Jesus over 100 years before He was born!?  Here are a few that tell about Jesus before He was even here!  Read each one and discuss how it relates to Jesus or tells you about what He'd be like when He came to Earth.  Isaiah 7:14, Isaiah 9:2, Isaiah 9:6-7, Isaiah 42:1-4, Isaiah 53:5, Zechariah 9:9, Psalm 41:9, Psalm 78:2. Listen to "Here with Us" by Joy Williams.

Pray! 

The Shepherds Learn About Jesus

Weekly Memory Verse:  Luke 2:11 There is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.

Brainstorm: This week we discussed how shepherds were the first people to learn about Jesus's birth (after Mary and Joseph of course).  Who were some other people in the Bible who were shepherds?  (Moses, Abraham, David, etc.). Were they only shepherds or did they have other jobs?  What were the other jobs?  Who is the Good Shepherd?  Why do you think Jesus is called a shepherd?

Activity 1:  Read Luke 2:1-4  Who was Joseph related to?  Why did they have to go to Bethlehem?  Why did he bring Mary along?  Read Luke 2:6-7  What happened while they were there?  Why did Mary lay baby Jesus in a feeding trough (or manger?)  Why do you think God allowed His son to be born in a stable?  Listen to "Noel" by Chris Tomlin and Lauren Daigle.

Activity 2:  Read Luke 2:8-9  What were the shepherds doing?  What interrupted their night?  How did they feel about it?  Read Luke 2:10-11  What did the angel say to calm them down?  Read Luke 2:12  How did the angel say they would recognize Jesus?  Read Luke 2:13-14 What happened next?  Read Luke 2:15-17  How did the shepherds respond?  Read Luke 2:18-20 How were the shepherds and other peoples' reactions to Jesus's birth different than Mary's?  Why do you think Mary "kept all these things in her heart and pondered them often"?  Angel Craft: Cut a pie slice shape out of a paper plate.  Flip it around and glue the point of the pie slice to the point on the plate where you cut it out (the slice is the angel's dress, the rest of the plate is her wings).  Make a circle for the angel's head and glue it in place.  Decorate the angel's dress with silver and/or gold crayons or markers and stickers.

Pray!

Joy to the World the Lord has Come!

Weekly Memory Verse: Isaiah 9:6  For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given...and He will be called Wonderful Councelor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Brainstorm:   In our memory verse for the week, Jesus is given four names- let's dive into what each one means a little deeper.  What is a counselor?  How does it help you to know that Jesus Himself will counsel you?  Jesus is our Mighty God- but He came down as a tiny helpless baby- what do you think about that?  How does it make you feel to know the Mighty God who created the Universe came to Earth as a human for the one purpose of saving you?  Jesus is our Everlasting Father- what does "everlasting" mean?  Even though Jesus was born as a human here on Earth, He has always been around.  He was here before God created everything, and He will be here always and forever because Jesus is God.  Jesus is the Prince of Peace- what do princes do?  What do you think it means when Jesus is called the Prince of Peace?

Activity 1:  Read Luke 1:26-29  Who came to visit Mary?  How did Mary feel about Gabriel's greeting?  Read Luke 1:30-33  Gabriel is telling Mary about Jesus in these verses- what does he say that is similar to what was foretold about Jesus in our memory verse for the week (Isaiah 9:6)?  Read Luke 1:38  How did Mary respond to Gabriel?  After Mary was told she would have Jesus, she went to visit Elizabeth, her relative who was also pregnant.  (Elizabeth's baby would be John the Baptist who told everyone Jesus was coming.)  Read Luke 1:42-45  How did Elizabeth respond to Mary's visit?  What did Elizabeth's baby do when Mary arrived?  Read Luke 1:46-55  This is Mary's Magnificat, or song of praise to God (we talked about it briefly at church if you were there).  What words or verses stand out to you from Mary's song of praise?  Listen to "Mary Did You Know".  

Activity 2:  Read Matthew 1:18-19  When Joseph found out Mary was pregnant, what did he decide to do?  What does that tell you about the kind of man Joseph was?  Read Matthew 1:20  Before Joseph could break off his engagement to Mary, what happened?  Read Matthew 1:21-23  What did the angel tell Joseph about Jesus?  Was it similar to what Gabriel told Mary?  Read Matthew 1:24  What did Joseph do instead of breaking his engagement to Mary?  Do you think it was difficult for Joseph to listen to the angel in his dream?  Why or why not?  What does Joseph's obedience to God tell you about his faith?  Based on what you read today, why do you think God chose Joseph as Jesus's Earthly dad?  Baby Jesus Craft:  Have your child color a plain white paper plate gold and brown.  Then have them trim along each of the ridges on the outer edge of the plate to make fringes (or in this case, hay).  Make a baby Jesus by cutting out a circle for his head and an oval for his body.  Glue him in the manger.

Pray!

Be Thankful All the Time

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 Thessalonians 5:18  Be thankful in all circumstances.

Brainstorm:  Why do you think the Bible tells us to "be thankful in all circumstances"?  Does that mean we should be thankful for the bad things that happen to us?  Explain your thinking.  Can God use bad things for good?  How might that help us to be thankful for things that are hard or sad?  How does being thankful help us on bad days?

Activity 1:  Read Daniel 6:3-5  Why were the other officials jealous of Daniel?  How did they decide to find fault with Daniel?  Read Daniel 6:6-9  What law did the officials get King Darius to sign?  Read Daniel 6:10  Did Daniel obey the law?  Why not?  Do you think it was ok for Daniel to break just this one law?  Why?  Read Daniel 6:11-13  What did the officials do next?  Read Daniel 6:14-16  What was King Darius's response?  Read Daniel 6:17-20  What did King Darius do after throwing Daniel into the lion's den?  How do you think he was feeling?  Read Daniel 6:21-22  How did Daniel answer King Darius when he asked if Daniel was ok?  Read Daniel 6:23-24  What was the King's reaction to Daniel being ok?  King Darius was extremely distressed when he thought Daniel- his best official- was going to die.  He was so thankful that Daniel survived that he went from making laws forcing people to worship him, to laws telling people to worship God.  Read his message of thanksgiving to his subjects in Daniel 6:25-27.  Thankful Pumpkins: continue to work on adding what you are thankful for to your pumpkins this week.  If you need further instructions, please see the end of last week's Activity 2.

Activity 2:  When Mary, Jesus's mother, found out she was pregnant with Jesus she sang a song of praise and thanksgiving to God.  Read her song in Luke 1:46-55 and discuss what part stood out to you the most.  Then write your own (or sing your own!) songs of thanksgiving to God for all that He's done!

Pray!

Give Thanks

Weekly Memory Verse: Psalm 100:4 Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise.

Brainstorm:  How can you show thankfulness to Jesus?  Why should we be thankful?  How does being thankful change us?  What are you thankful for?

Activity 1:  Read Psalm 100:1-3  What are some ways these verses give thanks to God?  Read Psalm 100:4-5  Why should we give thanks to God according to these verses?  Read Psalm 136:1-9  What are some things we should give God thanks for in these verses?  What sentence is repeated?  Why do you think the writer of this Psalm decided to say "His faithful love endures forever" over and over?  Listen to Christ Tomlin's song "Forever" and sing along in thanks to God if you want to!

Activity 2:  Read 1 Samuel 1:24-28  What did Hannah ask the Lord for?  What was His response?  What did Hannah do out of thankfulness to God for giving her a son?  Has God ever answered your prayers like He answered Hannah's?  How did you respond?  Read 1 Samuel 2  What part of Hannah's prayer of praise to God stood out most to you?  What were some of the things she thanked or praised God for in these verses (you can reread them if you need to)?  Thankful Pumpkins:  Have each family member add what they are thankful for to your family Thankful Pumpkin this week.  If you didn't get one, you can each make thankful pumpkins out of construction paper.  Each week from now until Thanksgiving have each family member write what they are thankful for on their pumpkin.  Then use them as placemats for Thanksgiving!

Pray!

Salt and Light

Weekly Memory Verse:  Matthew 5:16  Let your good deeds shine out for all to see so that everyone will praise your Heavenly Father.

Brainstorm: If we tell people about Jesus but then treat them unkindly or disrespectfully what will they think?  What does it mean to be salt and light?  Why is it important to be salt and light?  Are you being a good example of Christ's love everywhere you go?  Why or why not?

Activity 1:  This week we talked about how we should be salt and light if we're going to share Jesus.  The way we live and treat others speaks louder than any words we could say.  The very best example of how to be salt and light is Jesus.  Read the following verses and talk about how Jesus was salt and light in each one.  Matthew 8:1-3 (He cared for the sick), Matthew 15:32-37 (He fed the hungry), Luke 2:45-49 (He put God first), Luke 7:11-15 (He cared about those who were sad).  Be the Light: Go into a room and turn off all the lights.  Talk about what it is like.  Turn on a flashlight and talk about what it's like/how it's different.  Discuss with your kids about how we are to bring God's light (ie. His love) to all the world to show people the way to Him and we can do this by our kindness to others just like Jesus did!  

Activity 2: Jesus also had a lot to say about how to be salt and light.  Read the following verses and talk about what Jesus was teaching us in them.  Matthew 7:1-2 (don't judge others), Matthew 18:1-4 (be humble), Matthew 22:36-40 (love God and love others), Mark 12: 41-44 (be generous), Luke 6:27-28 (love everyone and be kind to them).  Be Salt: make scrambled eggs with your kids but leave out the salt.  Taste them, then add some salt and taste them again.  Discuss how the flavor changed.  Explain that as Christians we are supposed to be like the salt- wherever we go and whatever situation we're in, we should make it better because we are God's children- just like the salt makes the food better!

Pray!

Spread the Word

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 13:1  If I don't have love, I am only a loud gong or a noisy cymbal.

Brainstorm: Are we better than other people because we know and love Jesus?  What are some ways we can show that we love others with our actions?  Do you think people will come to know Jesus if we tell about Him with judgement?  What would happen if we tell others about Jesus with love and kindness?

Activity 1:  One of the best ways to share Jesus with others is by treating them with love.  Read 1 Corinthians 13:1-3  What are some things in these verses that are considered nothing without love?  Read 1 Corinthians 13:4-7  What are some things love is (verse 4)?  What are some things love is not (verses 5 & 6)?  Read 1 Corinthians 13: 13  What 3 things will last forever?  Which one is the greatest?  Why do you think love is considered greater than hope and faith?  Make a Love Mobile:  Cut out a large heart and write "love is" on it.  Then cut out several smaller hearts and write what love is on each one (for example; trusting, hopeful, patient, kind, humble, selfless, forgiving).  Then hang them from the big heart.

Activity 2:  Read Acts 17:16  What did Paul see in Athens?  How did it make him feel?  Read Acts 17:17-18  What did he do about it?  Read Acts 17:19-21  How did the Athenians respond?  Read Acts 17: 22-23  Though Paul knew idol worship is a sin, how did he approach the Athenians in these verses- with love or with judgement?  Read Acts 17:24-31  After coming to the Athenians with kindness and not judgement, what did Paul do next?  Read Acts 17: 32-34  How did the Athenians respond to Paul's message?  It is ok if people don't come to Jesus after sharing your faith with them.  Your job is to share, but it's God's job to change their hearts.  The most important part is that you come to them in love, and continue to show them God's love after sharing about Jesus.  Listen to "Luv is a Verb" by DC Talk (just a heads up- it's old school 90s Christian rap/pop...but it's awesome!)

Pray!

What is a Disciple and How do we Make Them?

Weekly Memory Verse:  Mark 15:16  Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.  Brainstorm:  What does our memory verse mean by "Good News"?  How can kids share their faith?  Do you have to travel the world to tell people about Jesus?  What are some different ways you can share Jesus with others?  

Activity 1:  What does it mean to witness?  (If you're not sure, look it up in the dictionary or online)  Witnessing is simply telling other people about something we've done or something we know about.  Read Psalm 107:2  What does this verse tell us to do?  Read 2 Timothy 1:7-8  If we feel afraid to tell others about Jesus, what does this verse tell us God has given us to help us?  Read 1 Timothy 4:12  This verse tells us the way we live can be a witness to others that we love Jesus- how should we live according to this verse?  Read Luke 12:8  What does God promise to those who share their faith?  Share Jesus With Others:  Make a list of 3 people you can share Jesus with.  As you tell each one about Him, or invite them to church, check them off the list.

Activity 2:  Read Jeremiah 1:4-9  What did the Lord tell Jeremiah (verses 4-5)?  What was Jeremiah  worried about (verse 6)? What did the Lord say to encourage him (verses 7-8)?  What did the Lord do to help Jeremiah (verse 9)?  Even though he was young and afraid to speak for the Lord, Jeremiah was obedient and did everything God told him to do.  You can be brave and share about the Lord just like Jeremiah!  Read Jeremiah 18:1-10  What does this parable Jeremiah shared teach us?  God Can Shape Us Activity:  Give your child play doh.  As they play, remind them that God can shape us and use us to do His good work if we listen to Him and follow Him like Jeremiah did!

Pray!

Worship Only God

Weekly Memory Verse: Luke 4:8  Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.

Brainstorm:  What are some things that are important to you or that you really enjoy?  How do you know when those things have become more important than God?  This week we learned that God deserves our time, attention and talents- how do you make sure that God gets those things from you every day?

Activity 1:  Read Deuteronomy 32:21  Why was God angry in these verses?  Read Psalm 115:4-8  According to these verses, do idols have any worth or power?  How do you know?  Read Colossians 3:1-3  Instead of putting our focus on the things of this world, which could become idols if we begin to focus on them more than God, what do these verses say to think about?  Read Colossians 3:16-17  What should fill our lives according to these verses?  What do you think it would look like to really allow the message of Christ to fill your lives?  Let Jesus Fill Your Life:  Write "Let the message about Christ fill your lives" on your hand or on a post-it note on the bathroom mirror.  Each time something else starts to fill up all of your time and thoughts, read that verse and refocus on Him!

Activity 2:  Read Matthew 6:19-21  What does Jesus warn us about in these verses?  Why does Jesus teach us not to store up treasures on Earth (verse 19)?  What are some examples of Earthly treasures?  Read the following verses and tell what Heavenly treasure they describe: Luke 12:33-34, 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Matthew 6:1-4.  If you focus on storing up Heavenly treasure instead of Earthly treasure, how does that change your focus?  Treasure in Heaven:  Draw and cut out a treasure chest and some paper jewels and coins.  On each jewel or coin, write a Heavenly treasure that you learned about today.  Then glue them in the chest. 

Pray!

How and Why We Worship

Weekly Memory Verse: Revelation 4:11  You are worthy our Lord and God to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things.

Brainstorm:  How can you worship God in song this week?  How can you worship God in prayer?  How can you worship God in writing?  How can you worship God by serving others?

Activity 1:  Our Bible verse this week says God is worthy of glory and honor and praise because He created all things.  Read Genesis 1:1-31 (or the story of creation in your kids Bible).  What did God create in these verses?  What thing from creation is the most amazing to you?  Why?  Worship God our Creator:  Go outside and take notice of all the creative, complex things God has made.  Each time you notice something amazing He has made, praise Him for it!  (ie. Thank you God for the way the setting sun paints the sky!  You are so creative because you made it so it looks different every day!)

Activity 2:  This week at church we learned that we can worship God by serving others.  Read Mark 10:45  Who is this verse about?  Why did Jesus come to Earth?  Read Mark 9:35  What did Jesus tell His disciples in this verse?  What do you think He meant by "to be first you must be last"?  (Read Matthew 23:11 if you need a hint!)  Read 1 Samuel 12:24  What does the Bible mean when it tells us to "fear" the Lord?  (If you aren't sure, look up the word "fear" in the dictionary or online)  What else should we do according to 1 Samuel 12:24?  What are some things you can do to serve God faithfully?  Why should we serve Him with all of our hearts?  Worship God by Serving Others:  Think of a way you can serve others this week at home or at school (or both!).  Put your plan into action as a form of worshiping God!

Pray!

Worshiping God During Bad Days

Weekly Memory Verse:  Psalm 145:2  I will praise you everyday, yes I will praise you forever.

Brainstorm: When is a time something bad happened to you, or you had a bad day?  Did you praise God in that moment?  What do you think praising God would look like in the middle of a bad day?  How can praising God help you through a bad day?

Activity 1:  Part of being able to praise God during hard times is remembering He is good, He is with us and He will use difficult situations to strengthen us.  Read the following verses and talk about how they could encourage you if you were having a bad day:  Isaiah 41:10, Philippians 4:19, Romans 8:28, John 16:33, James 1:2-4  Prepping for a Bad Day Activity- Part One:  Have each family member choose their favorite verse from the ones you just read.  Have each family member write their verse on a slip of paper and tuck it in an envelope.  Don't seal the envelopes yet!  Wait until you've completed part two (under activity 2 below).

Activity 2:  Read 1 Samuel 23:13-18  Why was David roaming the wilderness and hiding (verse 15)?  Who encouraged David during this VERY bad series of days (verse 16)?  What did Johnathan say to David (verse 17)?  Now turn to Psalm 63 and read it.  This Psalm was written by David during the time Saul was chasing him down and David was hiding from Saul in caves, afraid for his life.  Does this surprise you?  What is the Psalm mostly about?  How did David say he would praise the Lord in this Psalm (verses 4, 5, and 6)?  Prepping for a Bad Day Activity- Part Two:  Have each family member write their own Psalm of praise to the Lord thanking Him for all He's done.  Place them in the same envelopes from activity 1 above and seal them up (there should be one envelope for each family member).  Write each family member's name on the outside of their envelope containing their verse of encouragement from the Bible and their own personal Psalm.  Put them in a safe place and whenever that person has a bad day, have them take out their envelope and read their Bible verse and personal Psalm and praise the Lord!  

Pray!

What is Worship?

Weekly Memory Verse:  John 4:23  True worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth.

Brainstorm:  What are some different ways you can worship God?  Where can you worship God?  When can you worship God?  What are your favorite ways to worship God?  What is your favorite worship song?

Activity 1: Read the following verses and talk about how each one describes worship: 1 Chronicles 13:8, Psalm 95:6, Psalm 100:1-4, and 1 Timothy 2:8  Read the following verses and discuss why we should worship God: Psalm 47:7, Revelation 4:11, Psalm 29:2  God is the creator, He made you and all things in nature, He is worthy, and He is holy- He is the only one who deserves our worship!  Worship God as a Family: Choose one or more of the ways to worship God that you learned from our verses today (ie. song, instruments, bowing down, hands lifted up, prayers of praise and thanksgiving) and worship Him together as a family!

Activity 2: Read 1 Chronicles 29:10-11  How did David describe God?  What did David say belonged to the Lord?  1 Chronicles 29:12  What is David praising God for in these verses?  1 Chronicles 29:13-14  How does David approach God in these verses- with pride or humility?  How can you tell?  Who does he say has given him all that he has?  David says everything he has belongs to who?   Read 1 Chronicles 29:17 What does God rejoice over in theses verses? What is integrity (or honesty depending on your translation)?  How did the people praise God in verse 17?  Read 1 Chronicles 29:18  What did David ask God for at the end of his worship?  Write a Prayer of Worship like David's:  In these verses, David was worshiping God by talking to Him, or praying.  Take some time as a family to write a worshipful prayer of thanksgiving praising God for who He is and all He as done for each of you.

Pray!

Happy 1st Anniversary Grace City!

Weekly Memory Verse:  Ephesians 2:8-9  For by grace you have been saved, through faith.  And this is not your own doing, it is the gift of God.

Brainstorm:  What is grace?  Why do we need grace?  What does God's grace do for us?  Should we also show grace to others like God shows grace to us?  How can you do that in your own life?

Activity 1:  Read Ephesians 2:4-10  Why did God show us mercy even when we were sinners (verse 4)?  What does "it is only by God's grace you have been saved" mean?  How are we saved by God's grace (verse 8)?  Can we earn God's grace by the things we do (verse 9)?  Why not?  What is the correct response to God's grace- what should we do because of it (verse 10)?  Fun Fact:  "Grace" is in our church name because grace is the greatest gift God has given us- He forgives us from sin through Jesus even though we don't deserve it...simply because He loves us!  Celebrate grace by listening to "This is Amazing Grace" by Phil Wickham on YouTube.

Activity 2:  Our purpose at Grace City Church is to "Grow in grace, love like Jesus and go share Him with the world."  Why do you think those things are important?  Read 2 Peter 3:18  What does Peter tell us to do in these verses?  Read Matthew 22:36-39  What question did the religious leaders ask Jesus in verse 36?  What was His reply (verses 37-39)?  Read Acts 1:8  What does Jesus command us to do in this verse?  Who should we tell about Jesus?  Who will give you the courage to share about Jesus?  Jesus said God's greatest command is to love Him and the second is to love others.  We can show our love for God and people by caring for them, telling them about Jesus and showing them grace when we need to.  What better mission for our church to have than the very one Jesus Himself commanded us to do!  Grace City Anniversary Activity:  Write "Grow in grace, love like Jesus, go share Him with the world." on a piece of paper.  Tape it around a jar.  Cut out several paper hearts and place them next to the jar.  Each day, try to find a way to show grace or love to someone or tell someone about Jesus.  Each time you do, write it on a heart and add it to the jar!  See if your family can fill it to the top!

Pray!

Making a Difference

Weekly Memory Verse: Romans 12:21  Don't let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.

Brainstorm:  How have you made a difference by doing good at home or school this past week?  Does making a difference have to be something big?  What small things can you do to make a difference in the world: in your neighborhood, at church, in your family or at school?  What evil things have you seen in your life (for example: someone being unkind, someone lying). How can you conquer those things like Romans 12:21 tells us to?

Activity 1:  Read 2 Kings 5:1-5  Who was Naaman?  How did he end up with his wife's servant girl?  Do you think capturing someone and making them your servant is good or evil?  How did the servant girl repay Naaman?  Did she let evil conquer her, or did she conquer evil by doing good?  Read 2 Kings 5:9-15  Based on these verses, what kind of a man was Naaman?  (See verses 11-12 for a hint!)  How did Naaman's meeting with Elisha change him (verses 14-15)?  If the little servant girl hadn't conquered evil by doing good, what would've happened to Naaman?  Naaman is Healed Activity:  Print a picture of Naaman and have your little color it.  Tuck it in a page protector and have them use a dry erase marker to color "leprosy" on Naaman.  Then use a spray bottle to spray the page protector 7 times with water (to represent him dunking in the river 7 times) and wipe it clean!  Naaman is healed by God!

Activity 2:  Read Genesis 37:3-4 and Genesis 37: 18-28  Why didn't Joseph's brothers like him?  How did Joesph's brothers treat him?  What did they do to Joseph?  Was that good or evil?  Read Genesis 41:55-57  What is a famine?  Who was in charge of the store houses of grain during the famine?  (You can summarize for your child how Joseph came to be in charge of all the grain in Egypt if they haven't heard the story before- after he was sold into slavery in Egypt, he was wrongly accused of committing a crime by his master's wife.  He went to jail, then the Pharaoh had a dream about skinny cows eating fat cows.  While in jail, God helped Joseph correctly interpret the dream to mean that famine was coming in the land, so the Pharaoh stored up lots of grain to be prepared for the famine.  He set Joseph free, made him second in command in all of Egypt, and put him in charge of all the grain.)  Read Genesis 42:1-2  and Genesis 45:1-8  How did Joseph repay his brother's evil?  Even though lots of evil things happened to Joseph (he was sold into slavery, he was wrongly accused of a crime and put in jail), did he let those evil things conquer him?  What was his reaction instead?  How did Joseph conquer evil by doing good?  Joseph's Colorful Coat Craft:  Print a picture of Joseph.  Give him a colorful coat by decorating it with Fruit Loops.  Then eat some for a snack!

Pray!

Obedience

Weekly Memory Verse: Colossians 3:20  Children, always obey your parents, for this pleases the Lord.

Brainstorm:  Why do we have rules?  What rules do you have at home?  How do those rules help you?  What rules do you have at school?  How do they help you?  Why do you think obedience pleases the Lord?

Activity 1:  Read Jonah 1:1-4  What did the Lord ask Jonah to do?  Was he obedient?  What did the Lord do because of his disobedience?  Read Jonah 1:5-17  What did the sailors do to try to stop the storm?  Did it work?  Why not?  How was the storm finally calmed?  Did the Lord let Jonah drown?  How did He save him?  Read Jonah 2:1-10 and Jonah 3:1-3  Did Jonah obey the Lord when he was given a second chance?  Do you think he should've obeyed God the first time?  Why?  What can you learn from this story that applies to your own life?  Jonah and the Big Fish Craft:  Make a fish out of a paper or plastic disposable cup.  Cut a hole in the bottom and thread a string through the hole.  Draw a person (Jonah) on a balloon and just barely blow it up (so it's puffy but not huge).  You can also make a Jonah out of paper and cut it out. Tie Jonah to the string end that's closest to the opening of the cup.  If you made a paper Jonah, you can tape him to the string instead of tying him.  Pull the string and watch Jonah get swallowed up!

Activity 2:  Read Genesis 6:11-22  Why was God angry?  What did He plan to do?  What did He tell Noah to do?  Was Noah obedient?  What would've happened to Noah and his family if he wasn't obedient?  How can being obedient to God (and your parents and teachers God has placed in your life) help you?  How can it hurt you if you are disobedient?  Noah's Ark Snack:  Fold a paper plate in half.  Staple the open sides shut.  Cut off the flat side so that it opens and have your child fill it with animal crackers two by two- then eat them for a snack!

Pray!

Setting a Godly Example

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 Timothy 4:12 Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young.  Set an example for the believers in what you say and in how you live.

Brainstorm:  What does it mean to be a godly example?  How can you learn to be a godly person, even when you are young?  What does it look like to live a godly life?  Is it always easy to make godly choices?  What can you do to help yourself become more godly?  Who do godly people always look to?  

Activity 1:  Read 2 Timothy 3:14-17  Verse 14 tells us to remain faithful to what we were taught...what are some of the things you've been taught from the Bible?  What does it mean to "remain faithful" to those things?  Where do we get God's wisdom (see verse 15)?  What does the word "scripture" mean?  What else is scripture useful for other than just getting God's wisdom (see verse 16-17)?  What are "good works"?  What good works have you learned about in the Bible?  What good works can you do this week at home or at school?  Walking with Jesus Craft:  Paint your child's feet and make prints of them on a sheet of paper.  Write "Walking with Jesus helps me make godly choices." at the bottom of the paper.

Activity 2:  Read 2 Peter 1:5-8  Along with faith, verse 5 tells us to have "moral excellence"- what does that mean?  How can we have "moral excellence" (see Exodus 20:1-17 for a clue)?  Verse 6 says to have knowledge-where do we get knowledge?  What about godly knowledge?  What is self control (verse 6)?  Is self control hard sometimes?  When is it hardest for you?  What can you do to help with self control?  What does it mean to have "patient endurance" (verse 6)?  When is it hard to be patient?  What can make it easier?  What is "brotherly affection" (verse 7)?  How can we show love to others?  How do you think these things will lead to godliness? Closer to God Object Lesson:  Set up a lamp or flashlight in a dark room.  Have your child(ren) move closer to the light.  Ask them what they notice.  Then have them move further from the light and share what they notice.  Explain that the light is like God- the closer we get to Him by praying, reading the Bible and going to church, the more He'll light up our lives and make our lives filled with light and goodness...the more we'll be like Him!  But the further we get from Him, the less our lives will be lit up by the Lord, and the less we will be like Him.   "Godliness is not achieved when we work to become more like God but when God works in us."  -One Step Closer Bible

Pray! 

Friendship

Weekly Memory Verse: Ecclesiastes 4:9  Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.

Brainstorm:  Why is it important to have friends?  Why should you choose your friends wisely?  Who are some of your closest friends?  Have you made any new friends at school this year?  How can you tell if someone needs a friend?  Are you willing to reach out and befriend someone new at school this year?

Activity 1:  Read Mark 2:1-5  Who carried the paralyzed man to see Jesus?  Why couldn't they get to Jesus?  What did the paralyzed man's friends do when they couldn't get through the crowd?  What did Jesus think about their loyalty and faith?  What did Jesus do for the paralyzed man?  Read Mark 2:6-12  What did the religious leaders think about Jesus telling the man his sins were forgiven?  What did Jesus do next?  Do you think Jesus showed friendship to the paralyzed man?  How so?  When is a time your friends helped you in a big way like the paralyzed man's friends helped him?  When is a time you have helped a friend?  Make Friendship Bracelets:  Have your child use string and beads, or braid 3 pieces of string or yarn together to make a friendship bracelet to share with someone they consider a friend.

Activity 2:  Read each of the following verses.  After each one, answer these two questions: According to these verses, what makes a good friend?  How can you be a good friend?  Colossians 3:12-14, 1 Corinthians 13:1-13, 1 Thessalonians 5:11, 1 Peter 4:8-10, Luke 6:31  Listen to "Circle of Friends" by Point of Grace (it's an oldie but a goodie!)

Pray!

What is Baptism?

Weekly Memory Verse: Mark 16:16 Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved, but whoever does not believe will be condemned.

Brainstorm:  What is baptism?  Does being baptized save us?  Why do we get baptized?  Have you accepted Jesus into your life as Lord and Savior?  Have you been baptized?  If you haven't been baptized, but have accepted Christ, do you think that's something you'd like to do?

Activity 1:  Read Matthew 3:1-6  What was John the Baptist's message?  What did John do when people heard him speak and confessed their sins?  Read Matthew 3:7-9  What did John tell the Pharisees in verse 8?  Why do you think he said that to them?  What does verse 8 teach us as followers of Christ?  Read Matthew 3:13-17  Why did John try to talk Jesus out of being baptized?  What was Jesus' response?  What does that teach us about Jesus?  Only Jesus can save (Ephesians 2:8-9), but being baptized is a special way to let everyone know you love Him and have decided to follow Him!  Baptism coloring page:  Have your child color a picture of John baptizing Jesus.

Activity 2: Read Acts 8:26-28  Where was the eunuch coming from?  What was he doing along his journey?  Read Acts 8:29-35  Who met up with the eunuch?  Philip was one of Jesus' followers- what did he teach the eunuch about?  Read Acts 8:36-38  After hearing about Jesus, what did the eunuch do?  The Bible teaches us that being baptized is a public way to let the world know you love Jesus!  The eunuch loved Jesus so much, he wanted to be baptized right away to let the world know he loved Him!  Memory Verse Practice: Write 2-3 words from our memory verse on note cards (ie. card 1: Whoever believes, card 2: and is baptized ...and so on).  Scramble them up and see if your child can put them in the correct order.  If they can't read yet, you can help them!

Pray!

Forgiveness

Weekly Memory Verse:  Ephesians 4:32  Be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving, one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

Brainstorm:  When is a time you've forgiven someone?  When is a time someone had to forgive you?  How did it make you feel to be forgiven?  Why is forgiveness so important?  When it is hard to forgive, who can help us?

Activity 1:  Read Luke 15:11-24  How did the younger son sin?  What made him realize his mistake?  How did his father react when the son came home?  How is this story similar to the way God loves us?  What does this story teach us about forgiveness/forgiving others?  Celebrate Forgiveness Party Hats:  Have your child decorate a piece of construction paper with craft supplies or markers.  When it's dry, roll it into a cone shape and tape it in place to make a party hat.  Then make a charcuterie board with lunch meat, cheese, crackers, fruits and veggies to have a feast celebrating forgiveness like in the story from Luke.

Activity 2:  Read Matthew 18:21-22  According to these verses, how often should we forgive someone?  What do you think Jesus meant by "77 times 7"? Should we actually keep track of how many times someone has wronged us, or just forgive them again and again just like God forgives us?  Read Luke 6:37  What does it mean to judge someone? What does it mean to condemn someone?  Should we do those things according to this verse?  What should we do instead according to this verse? Read James 5:16  Why do you think this verse tells us to confess our sins to each other?  How can admitting your sin help you?  How can it help someone you've sinned against?  What else should we do according to this verse?  Listen to the song "Forgiveness" by Matthew West.

Pray!

Live Like Jesus

Weekly Memory Verse:  Ephesians 5:1  Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are His dear children.

Brainstorm:  What is God like- list 5 things you know about Him.  How can we imitate (or copy) God and Jesus?  How does acting like Jesus change us?  How can it change the world around us? (reread the story of Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10 for a hint)

Activity 1:  Read Matthew 14:14-21  How did Jesus help people in this story?  How can we help people the way Jesus did?  Read Matthew 9:9-13  Who did Jesus call to be His disciple in this story?  Who else was he hanging out with?  Why did that upset the Pharisees (the super holy people)?  What was Jesus's response to them?  Why did Jesus tell all kinds of people about God?  What can we learn from this story?  Make Bread:  Jesus used bread and fish to feed 5,000 people!  Make your own unleavened bread together using the recipe at www.alyonascooking.com/pita-bread-recipe/ 

Activity 2:  Read Mark 4:35-39  What did Jesus do in this story?  Why did He do it?  Read Matthew 8:1-4  How did Jesus help the man in this story?  Read Luke 7:11-15  How did Jesus help people in this story?  Read Matthew 5:13-14  What does Jesus call us to be in these verses?  What do you think it means to be "salt and light"?  Jesus took care of peoples' needs...how can we take care of the needs of others?  What are some needs in your community you can meet?  What are some needs at church?  At home?  At school?  Choose a. need and meet it together as a family today!

Pray!

How do You Handle Suffering?

Weekly Memory Verse: Hebrews 12:2  He paid no attention to the shame of the cross.  He suffered there because of the joy He was looking forward to.

Brainstorm:  What is something you have suffered through?  Can you see any ways God has used it for good?  How can you use what you've been through to help others?  How can you rely on Jesus when you are suffering?

Activity 1:  Read Romans 5:3-5  According to these verses, why should we rejoice when we suffer?  How does suffering help us?  Read Psalm 34:19, John 16:33 and 2 Corinthians 1:3-4 Who will help us out of our suffering?  How can we rely on Jesus when we are in the middle of suffering according to these verses?  Read Isaiah 53:4 and Psalm 56:8  How does God react when His children suffer?  How does that make you feel?  Give your Suffering to God Activity:  Write down some things that you are currently suffering through, or that you've suffered through in the past but are still on your heart on slips of paper.  Fold them up and place them in a jar.  Put it high on a shelf or on top of the fridge to remind you they're in God's hands.

Activity 2:  Read Job 1:6-12  What did Satan want to do in these verses?  What did God reply?  Does this surprise you?  How?  Though God allowed it, who was the one who tested Job?  Read Job 1:13-19  How did Satan test Job in these verses?  (Hint: there were 4 things that happened)  Read Job 1:20-22  How did Job respond to the bad things in his life?  What does that tell you about him?  Read Job 42:10-12  How did God reward Job for his steadfastness in suffering?  What did you learn about suffering from this Bible story?  Job was a good man, why do you think God allowed him to suffer?  (Hint: re-read Romans 5:3-5)  God is Good Mobile Craft:  Write "God is Good" on a 3x11 strip of paper.  Staple it in a circle.  Have your kids draw faces to show how they feel when different things happen in life (happy, sad, angry, surprised, etc).  Hang them from the "God is Good" circle using yarn to remind you that in all circumstances, God is good!

Pray!

Why is there Evil?

Weekly Memory Verse: 2 Peter 3:13 ...we are looking forward to a new Heaven and a new Earth.  Godliness will live there.

Brainstorm:    What was the world like before Adam and Eve sinned?  How did it change after they ate the fruit from the tree of knowledge?  Is the world always going to be full of bad things like sickness, pain and death?  How does God plan to change the world in the future?  Who can we rely on until Jesus comes to Earth again?  How can the Holy Spirit help us live in a sinful world?

Activity 1:   Read Genesis 1:26-31  Who made everything in the natural world (planets, stars, plants, animals, people, etc.)?  When everything was first created, was it good (vs. 31)?  Since everything was good, was there any evil in the Garden of Eden?  Read Genesis 2:15-17  What was the one rule in the Garden of Eden?  Read Genesis 3:1-7  What did Adam and Eve do in these verses?  What was the result of their sin?  When God created the world, everything was good and just as He planned for it to be.  There was no sin, so everything was perfect.  When Adam and Eve sinned, they brought destruction into the world- it was their doing and the result of sin.  It was not from God.  That's why we live in a broken world where evil things happen today.  Snake Craft:  Cut out a circle from a piece of paper.  Cut it into a spiral shape.  Decorate it like a snake.  Then practice telling it NO Satan, not today!

Activity 2: Read Revelation 21:3-4 When Jesus comes to Earth again physically, what will happen?  Read Philippians 4:8 and James 4:7  What can we do to fight against evil while we wait for Christ's return?  Read 2 Thessalonians 3:3 and Philippians 4:13  Who will help us fight evil?  Who will guard us from evil?  Listen to Chris Tomlin's song "Whom Shall I Fear" and praise God for keeping you from evil and helping you fight sin.

Pray!

Heaven

Weekly Memory Verse: Hebrews 13:14  For this world is not our permanent home, we are looking forward to home yet to come.

Brainstorm: What does our culture say about Heaven?  How does our culture think we get there?  What does the Bible say about Heaven?  According to God's Truth (the Bible), how do we get there?  If you're unsure, use your Bible index- look up "Heaven" and read the verses on it to gain insight.

Activity 1: Read Matthew 13:44-46  This is another one of Jesus's parables.  Parables are realistic stories Jesus told to illustrate spiritual things in a way that is easy to relate to.  What do you think Jesus was trying to teach with this parable?  What do the treasure and the pearl represent?  What did the people in the stories do to get the treasure?  What does that teach us about the value of Heaven?  Read John 14:2-3, Philippians 3:21, Revelation 22:5, Revelation 21:4, and 1 Corinthians 2:9.  What do these verses teach us about what Heaven will be like?  Make a "Heaven is like a treasure" treasure chest: draw and cut out a treasure chest on brown construction paper.  Then fill it up by gluing in several fake gems or coins you cut out of gold paper!

Activity 2: Read Matthew 13:24-30 and Matthew 13:36-43  This is another parable about Heaven.  What does the wheat represent?  What do the weeds represent?  What happened to the wheat?  What happened to the weeds?  What does that teach us about who will get into Heaven?  Read John 14:6  What is the only way to God (and to Heaven)?  Read Ephesians 2:1-10 What does it mean to be saved?  How do we get saved?  What are we saved from (re-read Matthew 13:40-42 if you don't know)?  Make a marble painting cross:  Place a piece of paper in a cake pan.  Pour different colors of paint in the pan, then place a marble in the pan and roll it around until the paper is colorful.  When it has dried, cut out a cross from the painted paper.  Glue it to a piece of construction paper, and write "By grace you have been saved, through faith."  -Ephesians 2:8 on it. Hang it in your home as a reminder of the One who saved you, and who has made you worthy of Heaven.

Pray!

Growing in Wisdom

Weekly Memory Verse: Proverbs 26:11  As a dog returns to its vomit, so a fool repeats his foolishness.

Brainstorm:  What mistakes have you made recently?  What should you do when you make mistakes?  What are some things you've learned from your mistakes?  How does God respond to our mistakes?  What is our memory verse this week talking about?  What can we learn from it?

Activity 1:  Read 2 Chronicles 1:7-12  What did Solomon ask God for?  Why did he ask for wisdom (hint: verse 10)?  What did God give him?  Why did God grant Solomon more than just the wisdom he asked for?  The book of Proverbs is a book in the Bible written by Solomon about the wisdom God gave him.  Read Proverbs 1:1-7  Why did Solomon write proverbs?  Why is it useful to study Proverbs?  Should wise people read Proverbs too?  Why?  Play the "Wisdom Game":  Give everyone a bit of Play-doh.  Choose a leader and allow them to tell everyone else how to shape their Play-doh.  Take turns being the leader, then discuss the following questions- How did it feel to lead?  Why do good leaders need wisdom?  How did you need wisdom for this game? 

Activity 2:  Read the following verses from Proverbs.  Discuss as a family what they mean, and how they can apply to your lives.  Proverbs 1:8-9, Proverbs 3:5-6, Proverbs 3:28, Proverbs 10:1, Proverbs 10:4, Proverbs 10:25, Proverbs 11:3, Proverbs 11:17, Proverbs 11:20, Proverbs 14:21 Proverbs 17:14, Proverbs 27:2.  Wisdom art:  Write the word "Wisdom" on a piece of paper and decorate it with markers, crayons, etc.  Then around the word, write bits of wisdom you learned from Proverbs today- you can use the verses you already read, or look up verses of your own.

Pray!

Being a Part of God's Team

Weekly Memory Verse:  1 Corinthians 12:27  Now you are the body of Christ and each one of you is a part of it.

Brainstorm: God has given everyone gifts or things they're good at to help grow his church- what are some gifts or talents God has given you?  Why is it important that God gave us all different gifts?  Are any gifts more important than others?  Why or why not?  How can you use your gifts or talents to serve God?

Activity 1:  Read Romans 12:4-8  What does verse 4 mean by "Christ's body"?  What does "we are many parts of one body and we all belong to each other" mean?  Verses 6-8 list different Biblical gifts God gives us to help serve the church- which gift(s) do you think He gave you?  Why do you think those are your gifts?  How can you use them to grow God's kingdom?  Read 1 Corinthians 12:14-21  In these verses, Paul is comparing the people in the church - or the body of Christ - to actual body parts.  Now that you know this, re-read the verses and try to figure out what Paul was teaching about different members of the church (take it verse by verse and discuss it as a family).  Make a "1 Body, Many Parts" painting: draw (or print here) the shape of a body.  Fill it in using many different colors to represent the many different parts of the body of Christ (the church) by using fingerprints in different colors of paint.

Activity 2:  Read Ephesians 2:19-22  According to these verses, we are all members of what?  (hint: there are 4 answers to this!)  What does that mean to you to be called a "citizen of God's holy people", "a member of God's family", "His house" and "His holy temple"?  How does that make you feel to be considered those things?  Read 1 Corinthians 12:25-26  Since we are all parts of one family, what should we do for each other?  How can we show care for the body of Christ (the church)- list 3 ways.  If a part of the church is suffering, what happens?  If a part is honored, what happens?  Make a "One Body in Christ" play dough person: shape each part of your person from a different color of play dough (ie. one yellow arm, one orange arm, one green leg, one blue leg) and put them together to make one body.

Pray!

God Can Use You- Even if You're Young!

Weekly Memory Verse: Philippians 4:13  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

Brainstorm:  What is something God has used you for or helped you do?  Do we always know exactly how God is using us?  Is there anything God is calling you to do right now?  If so, what is it?  Spend some time praying over it now and thanking God for all of the things He's done through you in the past.

Activity 1:  Read 1 Samuel 17:32-58  How old was David in this story?  Defeating Goliath was a BIG job- none of Israel's soldiers had the courage to even try.  How did David defeat Goliath even though David was just a boy?  What does this story teach you about who God can use to do His work?  Read 1 Timothy 4:12  What does this verse teach you about how God sees young people?  What should young people do according to this verse?  What things do you think God has called you to do even though you're young?  Make a Sheep:  Trace and cut out a hand print on black paper (the fingers will be the sheep's legs, the thumb will be his face).  Cut out and glue a white cloud shape on top.  Add googley eyes or draw some with white crayon.  Write "If God can use a shepherd boy, He can use me!" on the sheep.

Activity 2:  Read 1 Samuel 3:1-21  How old was Samuel?  What did Samuel do as a boy?  Who called Samuel?  What did the Lord tell Samuel?  Why did the Lord decide to judge Eli's family?  Who told Eli what the Lord had decided?  How did Samuel feel about giving Eli the news God had for him?  Who do you think gave Samuel the courage to pass on God's message?  How can God use you in His plan while you are still young?  If what God asks is hard, remember He'll strengthen you!  God Speaks to Me Page- print it here and color it!

Pray!

Good Friends are Loyal

Weekly Memory Verse: Proverbs 17:17  A friend is always loyal and a brother is born to help in time of need.

Brainstorm:  When have you been a loyal friend?  When has a friend shown loyalty to you?  How is Jesus loyal to us?  How can we be loyal to Him?

Activity 1:  Read Genesis 37: 3-8 and Genesis 37:18-28  How did Joseph's brothers feel about him?  Why?  What did they decided to do to him?  Read Genesis 43: 19-34 and Genesis 45: 1-8  How did Joseph show loyalty to his brothers, even after they had treated him so awfully?  What do you think it was like for Joseph seeing his brothers again after they'd betrayed him?  Who did Joseph credit for sending him to Egypt?  Why?  Do you think you could show loyalty like Joseph?  Why or why not?  Who do you think helped Joseph show loyalty to his brothers after they treated him so poorly?  How does this story relate to the verse of the week?  Joseph's Colorful Coat Snack- Use graham crackers (or another square shaped cracker or cookie) to make a coat shape (use a full sheet of graham cracker for the middle and two 1/4 pieces for the sleeves).  Cover them with peanut butter or frosting, then use M&Ms or Skittles to make colorful stripes on the coat.  Enjoy!

Activity 2:  Read Ruth 1:1-18  How did Naomi and Ruth know each other?  What sad thing happened to them?  When Naomi told Ruth to go back to her own family, what did Ruth say in reply (verses 16-17).  Why do you think Ruth made that decision?  How does this show Ruth's loyalty to Naomi?  Read Matthew 1:1-16  What are these verse listing?  What famous Bible people are on this list (what names do you recognize?)?  Ruth was related not only to King David, but also to Jesus Himself!  What does that tell you about what God thinks of loyalty?  Sing About It- Listen to the song Loyal (OMG)- a song about God's loyalty- on YouTube.

Pray!

Asking God in Prayer

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 John 5:14  And this is the confidence that we have toward Him, that if we ask anything according to His will He hears us.

Brainstorm:  What is something you can ask God for in prayer?  Does God ever get tired of us asking Him for things in prayer?  Does God always answer our prayers the way we expect?  Why?  What prayers has God answered in your life?

Activity 1:  Read Luke 18:1-8  Last week we learned that parables are stories Jesus told about real life to teach people about spiritual things in a way they could easily understand.  What problem did the woman have in this parable?  What did she do about it?  Did she get what she was asking for right away?  What did she do when her problem wasn't immediately solved?  What do you think Jesus was trying to teach people with this parable?  What is something you've been asking God for for awhile?  Why do you think God hasn't answered yet?  Do you see any ways that He may have already answered, just differently from what you expected?  Prayer Jar- if you made a prayer jar a few months ago, re-read the prayers you put in it now.  Celebrate the prayers God has answered and add any new ones you have.  If you haven't made a prayer jar yet, get a large jar or other container- you can decorate it if you like!  Write your prayers on slips of paper and place them in the jar.  Re-read the prayers every month and praise God for all He's done!  If He hasn't answered a prayer yet, put it back in the jar and keep on praying!

Activity 2:  Read Matthew 21:18-22  What happened in these verses?  Why do you think Jesus cursed the tree (other than maybe he was hangry...LOL)  What lesson did Jesus teach His disciples through His fig tree demonstration?  Do you think you can really have whatever you want if you just ask and have faith (verse 22)?  Read 1 John 5:14  What is the one condition in this verse that guarantees we'll get what we pray for?  Read Romans 12:2  How can we know what God's will is?  God's Will Rainbow- Cut a paper plate in half and cover it with cotton balls.  Cut strips of paper so that you have red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple and pink.  Write a Bible verse about God's will on each strip of paper.  (Psalm 121:7-8 God cares for and protects us, Psalm 32:8 God guides us, Hebrews 8:12 God forgives us, 1 John 5:14-15 God answers our prayers, Hebrews 13:5 God is always with us, John 14:26 God gives us the Holy Spirit, Jeremiah 29:11 God has good plans for our lives.)  Then glue the strips on your "cloud".

Pray!

Prayers of Repentance

Weekly Memory Verse:  1 John 1:9  If we confess our sins He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

Brainstorm: What does it mean to repent?  Why is it important?  How does repentance help us?  Is there anything you need to repent of?  Does repenting mean you'll never make that mistake again?  What should you do if you make the same mistake after repenting?  Ask God for forgiveness now and pray for the strength to change!

Activity 1:  Read Matthew 6:12  Who taught us to repent in this verse?  Read 2 Chronicles 7:14  What attitude does repentance require?  Read Proverbs 28:13  If you try to hide your sins, what will happen?  What does that mean?  If you confess your sins in prayer to God what will happen?  Read Luke 17:3-4 Should we only ask God for forgiveness?  Who else should we ask?  Read Matthew 18:21-22  If someone asks us for forgiveness, how many times should we forgive them?  What do you think Jesus meant by 7X70 times?  Chocolate syrup activity:  Pour chocolate syrup in your child's hands.  Ask them what they notice about it- then compare it to sin: it's sticky, dark, spreads, and makes a mess of you.  Then explain asking God for forgiveness is like washing your sticky hands clean.  Have your kids wash their hands and describe what their hands are like now.  Just like when we repent and God washes us of sin, we become clean, it's easier to do things, and our life isn't full of a sticky, yucky mess!

Activity 2:  Parables are stories Jesus told about real life to help people understand spiritual things.  Read Luke 15:3-7  What do you think this story is actually talking about?  Why did Jesus tell this story?  How does Jesus feel when you repent?  What happens in Heaven when you repent?  Read Luke 15:11-24. What did the younger son decide to do?  What eventually happened to him?  How did he decide to fix his problem?  Did he get what he deserved?  How did his dad react to his return?  What is Jesus trying to teach us with this parable?  Make repentance hands with your child- trace your child's hand.  Then have them write (or if they can't write yet, you can do it for them) each step of repentance on each finger:  listen to God's spirit, say you're sorry, ask for forgiveness, make it right, grow and go!

Pray!

Praising God in Prayer

Weekly Memory Verse:  Isaiah 43:21  The people who I formed for myself will declare my praise.

Brainstorm:  What is praise?  How do you feel when you're praised for a job well done?  Why is it important to praise God?  What are some things that have happened recently that you could praise God for?  Spend some time in prayer as a family just praising God for all of the things He's done for you.

Activity 1:  Read Psalm 100  What is the difference between praise and worship?  Is it ok to praise people?  Is it ok to worship them?  Who is the only one we should ever worship?  According to Psalm 100, what should we praise God for?  Read Philippians 4:6 and Colossians 4:2  When we ask God for something what should we also do?  Why?  Back in college we would have discussion time with our color guard group about how things were going in practice, and we went by the rule "two roses and a thorn".  That meant for every negative thing you had to say, you had to also say two positive things.  This helped us focus more on the positive than the negative.  You can use a similar model in prayer!  For every thing you ask of God, praise Him for two things He's already done!  This will keep your heart thankful, and remind you of all that He's done for you while you're waiting for Him to answer your asks.  Practice this as a family in prayer today!

Activity 2:  Read Psalm 150:1-6  We know we should thank and praise God with our words, but how else can we praise Him according to this Psalm?  Is praise always quiet and reserved?  Do you prefer praising God quietly in prayer, or with singing, dancing and the playing of music?  Why do you think that is?  Are both equally important?  Why?  Read Psalm 148  What is this entire Psalm about?  What feelings do you get reading this Psalm?  Can you tell what the author was feeling according to his words?  Has there been a time God did something in your life that made you as joyful as the psalmist?  What was it?  How did you thank God for it?  Use the imagery from Psalm 148 to draw a picture of praise to God!

Pray!

The Lord's Prayer

Weekly Memory Verse: Matthew 6:9-13  Our Father, who art in Heaven, hallowed be thy name.  Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on Earth as it is in Heaven.  Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our debts as we forgive our debtors.  Lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil, for thine is the kingdom, and the power and the glory forever.  Amen

Brainstorm: Do you think we're supposed to memorize the Lord's Prayer?  Why or why not?  Is it the only prayer we're ever supposed to pray since it's how Jesus taught us to pray?  Why do you think the Lord's Prayer matters?  

Activity 1:  Read Matthew 6:9-13   In these verses, Jesus gave us a map on how to pray.  Following this "map", write your own family prayer using the guide below.  Verse 9- Praise God because He is holy!  Write a few sentences praising God for who He is and what He's done.  (see John 14:6, 1 John 4:16, Deuteronomy 32:4, and Genesis 1:1 for ideas.)  Verse 10- Pray for God's will to be done on Earth (What is God's will?  Read 1 Thessalonians 5:18, 1 Peter 2:15, and John 6:40 for ideas).  Verse 11- Ask God for what you need.  Verse 12- Ask God to forgive you for your sins- be specific!  Also let Him know that you forgive others who've sinned against you.  Verse 13- Pray to be delivered (or saved) from all evil.  When you're done, make prayer hands to help you learn the Lord's Prayer from Matthew 6- Trace and cut out the hands of each family member.  Write a part of the Lord's Prayer on each hand.  String them together, then hang them somewhere where you can see them and practice!

Activity 2:  Read Matthew 6:5-8  Why did Jesus teach us the Lord's Prayer?  Where should you go to pray according to verses 7 and 8?  Why?  Read Romans 12:12 and 1 Thessalonians 5:17  When should you pray?  What do you think that means?  How can you "pray continually" in your daily life?  Have each family member tuck a pen in their pocket and as you go through your individual days, make tallies on your hand for each time you pray to God.  They can be big prayers, or quick short ones.  Then at the end of the day, meet up as a family and share your tallies and some of the things you each prayed over.  How do you think this activity changed your day or your mindset?

Pray!

Resisting Temptation

Weekly Memory Verse:  Galatians 5:16  Live by the Holy Spirit's power.  Then you will not do what your sinful nature wants you to do.

Brainstorm:  What does the phrase "your sinful nature" mean?  How does our sinful nature want us to act?  How can we defeat our sinful nature?  How does God's Holy Spirit help us fight temptation?  Why is it good to resist temptation?

Activity 1:  Read Matthew 4:1-11  Who was being tempted in this verse?  What 3 things did Satan tempt Jesus to do?  How did Jesus respond every time?  Read 1 Peter 2:21-22  What do these verses teach us about Jesus?  Since we know Jesus is perfect and never sinned, is it sinful to be tempted?  When does temptation become sinful?  What are some things that tempt you?  Just like Jesus resisted temptation by reciting scripture, find a Bible verse to help you resist your own temptation.  Write it down, stick it to your bathroom mirror and memorize it so you can use it to combat Satan!

Activity 2:  Read James 1:12-15  What will happen if you resist temptation?  Who tempts us?  Is it ever God?  Is it always Satan?  If we don't resist temptation, what will happen?  Read 1 Corinthians 10:12-13  Will God allow you to be tempted more than what you can stand?  When you are tempted, what will God always provide for you?  How does this encourage you?  PARENTS:  Set out a plate of fruit and a plate with 10 pieces of your child's favorite candy on it.  Tell your kids they may eat as much of the fruit as they want, but they aren't allowed to eat the candy.  (If they ask why, say "Because I said so!")  Leave the room for awhile.  If your kids resisted the temptation to disobey and eat the candy, reward them by making "crowns of life" together out of construction paper and fake gems (and give them some of the candy if you like!)  If they gave in and disobeyed, have a conversation with them about why they made that decision and what they could do next time to help them resist.

Pray! 

Adam and Eve- The Need for Grace

Weekly Memory Verse:  Romans 6:23  For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

Brainstorm:  What does "wages" mean?  Knowing this, what does Romans 6:23 mean by the "wages" of sin?  Who paid the wages of sin for us?  Does following Jesus make you perfect?  What does following Jesus do for us?

Activity 1:  Read Genesis 3:17  What question did the serpent (Satan) ask Eve in Genesis 3:1?  Read Genesis 2:15  What was God's actual command about the trees in the Garden of Eden?  What did Satan tell Eve in Genesis 3:4-5?  Did she believe his lie?  Why do you think she believed him?  Read 1 Peter 5:8 and Ephesians 6:12  Does Satan still lie to us today to turn us away from God?  Read Ephesians 6:11 and James 4:7  How can you fight back against Satan?  Read Ephesians 6:13-17  Draw a soldier wearing each piece of God's armor and label it.  Include: a belt of truth, the body armor of righteousness, the shoes of peace, a shield of faith, a helmet of salvation and the sword of the word of God.  What do you think Paul (the writer of Ephesians) meant when he wrote these verses?  How can you dress yourself in the full armor of God every day?

Activity 2:  Read Genesis 3:8-15  What did God ask Adam and Eve in verse 9?  Read Psalm 139:1-6  Why do you think He asked where Adam and Eve were if God knows everything?  Who did Adam blame for his sin in verse 12?  (hint: it's TWO people)  Who did Eve blame for her sin in verse 13?  Read 1 John 1:9  What should we do when we sin instead of blaming others?  Read 1 Corinthians 15:22  What do these verses teach you?  How do we "belong to Adam" before we know Jesus/what do you think that means?  How can we "belong to Christ" instead of Adam?  Make a Garden of Eden collage- cut out trees, flowers, fruits etc. from magazines and glue them on a piece of paper.

Pray!

Knowing God's Law

Weekly Memory Verse: Romans 3:23  Everyone has sinned.  No one measures up to God's glory.

Brainstorm: What is grace?  How do we get God's grace?  Does God's grace mean we can do whatever we want?  Why or why not?

Activity 1:  Read Exodus 20:1-17  Which of the Ten Commandments do you think is the worst to break?  Explain why.  Read James 2:10  Which commandment does God think of as the worst to break?  Why is that?  How does that make you feel?  Read Isaiah 53:5-6 and 1 Peter 2:24-25.  What hope do these verses give you?  The Ten Commandments were written for Moses and the Israelites on stone.  Go outside and find a stone.  Paint a heart on it in the color of your choice.  When it's dry, use a sharpie or paint marker to write on it "God Loves Me".  Put it in a place you'll see it and remember to follow God's law- and also a reminder of His grace for when you break it.

Activity 2:  Read Mark 12:28-31  Although God sees all of His commands as equal, in these verses Jesus said loving God and loving others were the most important- why do you think that is?  Write "Love God" and "Love Others" on two pieces of paper.  Then write each of the Ten Commandments on 10 other pieces of paper.  Sort the commandments under either "Love God" or "Love Others".  How did this activity show that Jesus was supporting God's truth that all of the commandments are equal?  Because all of God's commandments fall under the two greatest commands that Jesus mentioned, it proves they're all equal because if you're loving God and loving others you'll naturally follow all ten of the other commandments!  

Pray!

Understanding Easter: What Happened Next?

Weekly Memory Verse: Matthew 28:20 ...and be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.

Brainstorm:  What promise does Jesus give us in our memory verse this week?  Why do you think He said that?  How can Jesus be with us when He's gone back to Heaven?  How does it make you feel to know that Jesus is with you,  no matter what?

Activity 1:  Read Luke 24: 35-43 and 1 Corinthians 15:3-9  After Jesus rose from the dead, did He just go to straight to Heaven?  Who saw Jesus alive and well after His resurrection?  Even when Jesus appeared to His disciples in Luke, did they immediately believe He was actually alive?  What did they think He was?  How does this support the fact that Jesus really died and then came back to life?  Put on your favorite praise songs and worship Jesus- because He really, truly is alive!

Activity 2:  Read Luke 24: 44-48 and Matthew 28:18-20  What did Jesus tell the disciples to do in these verses?  How can you share the story of Jesus' resurrection with people you know?  Read Luke 24: 49  When you believe in Jesus, what gift does God give you?  How can the Holy Spirit help you tell others about how much Jesus loves them?  Read Luke 24:50-53  After Jesus met with His disciples and others to show He was alive again and encourage them to share His story, where did He go?  Holy Spirit object lesson- Put about an inch of vinegar in an empty water bottle.  Use a funnel to put 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda in a balloon.  Place the balloon opening around the water bottle opening and when it's secure, dump the baking soda in.  Allow your kids to be amazed as the balloon fills up!  Explain that the balloon is like your heart- when you love Jesus and accept Him as your Lord and Savior, His Holy Spirit fills you up, just like the balloon (only WAY better because it's Jesus)!

Pray!

Understanding Easter: The Resurrection

Weekly Memory Verse: Luke 24:5-6  Why are you looking among the dead for someone who is alive?  He isn't here- He is risen from the dead.

Brainstorm: Who is the angel (the speaker) in Luke 24:5-6 talking about?  What is the true meaning of Easter?  How could Jesus rise from the dead?  What does the resurrection of Jesus mean to you?

Activity 1:  Read Luke 24:1-12  Where were the women going early Sunday morning?  What were they going to do there?  What did they discover when they arrived at the tomb?  Where was Jesus?  What did the women (Mary Magdalene, Joanna and Mary of Mother of James) do next?  Did the disciples believe them?  Why not?  Would YOU have believed the women if you had been there?  Why or why not?  Cut out the shape of a cross from white paper.  Then, take a black sheet of construction paper and place the white cross in the center.  Using chalk, color outward from the cross all around it using different colors.  Remove the white paper cross and a black cross should be left in the center.  Cut out a red heart, write "He is risen!" on it and glue it to the center of the black cross.  He is risen indeed!

Activity 2:  Read John 20:11-18  Who was the very first person to see Jesus alive after He was crucified?  Even though the disciples were Jesus' closest followers and best friends, what does that tell you about how Jesus sees women and girls?  What do you think Mary was feeling when she couldn't find Jesus?  How did her feelings change after she recognized Him?  What did Jesus tell her to do?  Was she obedient?  How can you be obedient to Jesus this week?  Review the Easter story using jelly beans!  Find each color, review that part of the Easter story as a family, then eat it!  Green: the palms the people waved to welcome Jesus on Palm Sunday, Purple:  Jesus' sorrow in the Garden of Gethsemane, Orange: for Jesus' betrayal and arrest, Red: the blood He shed for us on the cross, Yellow: the break of day when the women visited the empty tomb, Black: for our sin, White: for His grace, Pink: for our new life in Christ!

Pray!

Understanding Easter: At the Cross

Weekly Memory Verse:  Acts 4:12 Salvation is found in no one else for there is no other name under Heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.

Brainstorm:  What does this week's memory verse mean?  Who is the only one who can save us?  What is He saving us from?  What did Jesus have to endure for us to be saved?

Activity 1:  Read Matthew 27:32-44  The mockers at the cross quoted Jesus saying, "You said you were going to destroy the temple and rebuild it in 3 days".  What did Jesus mean by that?  What temple was He actually talking about?  Did His prophesy come true?  The leading priests also mocked Jesus telling Him to save Himself if He was really God.  Could He have saved Himself from the cross?  Why didn't He?  Read Romans 5:8 and Romans 6:23  Why did Jesus have to die?  Jesus is often called the "Lamb of God" because like the Passover lamb or sacrificial lambs of the Old Testament, He died in our place so that we can be free of sin.  Make an Easter lamb out of a paper plate, black construction paper, and cotton balls, knowing that it represents the Lamb of God- the final sacrifice given for our sins.

Activity 2:  Read Matthew 27:45-51  In Jesus' day, people didn't have copies of the Bible- and many of them didn't know how to read anyway- so they had to memorize scripture in large chunks.  Rabbis often taught in the temple by saying a verse, then the congregation would finish it from memory together.  Jesus did this very thing on the cross when He stated, "My God, My God, why have You forsaken me?  Read Psalm 22:1-18 How do these verses directly connect to Jesus during the crucifixion?  Try to find all of the similarities.  In Matthew 27:51 the temple curtain was torn in two.  The purpose of the curtain was to separate the holy of holies where God lived in the temple from the rest of it where people were allowed to go.  Only the high priest was allowed to enter the holy of holies once a year.  Everyone else was kept separate from God's presence.  Knowing all of this, what do you think the temple curtain being torn it two represented?  Go on an East scavenger hunt!  Find: Something black- sin, 2 sticks- the cross, something red- Jesus' blood, a rock- the tomb, 3 of something- 3 days in the tomb, something empty- "He is not here, He is risen", something white- a clean heart, something green- grow in Christ, something new- a new grace filled, forgiven life in Christ.

Pray!

Understanding Easter: Before the Cross

Weekly Memory Verse:  John 3:16  For God so loved the world He gave His only son that whosoever believes in Him will not perish but have everlasting life.

Brainstorm:  Why did God send Jesus to Earth?  Who did Jesus come to save?  When you trust Jesus, what do you gain on Earth?  What about when you die?

Activity 1:  Read Mark 14:12-31 (or the story of the Last Supper in your children's Bible)  On what Jewish holiday did the last supper take place?  How did the Jews celebrate the Passover?  How does the tradition of Passover tie into Jesus' death on the cross?  Read John 13:1-11  How do you think Jesus felt knowing one of His best friends would betray Him?  Why do you think Peter didn't want Jesus to wash his feet?  Why did Jesus insist on it?  Take turns washing your family members' feet just like Jesus washed the disciples'.  How did it feel to be the foot washer?  How did it feel to have your feet washed?  How did washing your family members' feet help you understand why Jesus washed the disciples'?

Activity 2:  Read Mark 14:32-50 (or the story of the Garden of Gethsemane in your children's Bible)  How did Jesus feel in the Garden of Gethsemane?  What did He ask His best friends (Peter, James and John) to do while He prayed?  What did they do instead?  How did Jesus react- in anger or with grace?  How do you know?  Why do you think Jesus prayed for "this cup of suffering" to be taken away from Him?  Why did He go through with it anyway?  Jesus died for you!  Even if you were the only one who would be saved by it, He still would've endured the cross.  Write Him a letter of thanks and praise for His sacrifice and perfect love for you!

Pray!

Grace

Weekly Memory Verse: Romans 10:9  Say with your mouth "Jesus is Lord".  Believe in your heart God raised Him from the dead.  Then you will be saved.

Brainstorm:  Our learning point this week was "Jesus makes me God's friend when I choose to follow Him."  What does it mean to give your life to Jesus?  Have you given your life to Jesus and chosen to follow Him?  If you have, how has it changed your life?  If not, would you like to today?

Activity 1:  Read 2 Corinthians 12:9  Who can Jesus forgive?  Do you have to be perfect to follow Him?  Read 2 Timothy 1:9 and John 14:6. Where does grace come from?  Is grace something we can get on our own?  Why or why not?  Read Isaiah 40:31  Who gives us strength to follow Jesus?  Draw the outline of a person.  Tuck the drawing in a page protector.  Use a dry erase marker to write sins on the person (stealing, lying, etc.)  Explain that God's grace erases all of our sin through the blood of Jesus.  Use a paper towel to erase all the sin from your drawing as you explain this.  When you believe in Jesus He erases all of your sin and you are made perfect again- just like they never happened!

Activity 2:  Read Mark 16:15-16 and Romans 1:16. If we believe in and follow Jesus, what should we be doing according to these verses?  Who do you know that doesn't know about Jesus or follow Him?  What are some ways you could share your faith with them?  Read Deuteronomy 31:6 and Luke 12:12  Who always goes with you?  How does that give you the courage to share your faith?  Write down the names of people you'd like to share your faith with and pray over them as a family.  If you made a prayer jar last week, add their names to the jar!  If not, you can post them on the fridge or bathroom mirror as a reminder to pray over them each day.  After you tell them about Jesus, share how it went with your family!  Remember- it's our job to spread the good news and God's job to change people's hearts...you plant the seed, but God waters it and makes it grow, so if they don't accept Christ right away just keep praying over them!

Pray!

Bold Prayers

Weekly Memory Verse:  James 5:16  The prayer of a godly person is powerful.  It makes things happen.

Brainstorm:  What are some big prayers you've prayed that God has answered?  How did you thank Him?

Activity 1: Read Matthew 6:7-13. What is prayer?  How should we pray according to Jesus?  The Lord's Prayer teaches us how we should pray.  In verses 9-10, it teaches us to start by praising God for who He is.  Then in verses 11-13 it teaches us to follow that by praying over the things we need.  Read Matthew 6:5-6. What does Jesus teach us in these verses?  Do these verses mean we should never pray aloud or in front of others?  What do you think Jesus was warning us about when He said Matthew 6:5-6?  Practice praying out loud as a family- take turns talking to Jesus as the Spirit leads you. 

Activity 2: Read 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18  What does it mean to "pray without ceasing"?  How can praying throughout the day change us?  Read Luke 18:1-8 What does Jesus teach us in this story?  What is something big you've been praying for- or something you've been praying about for awhile?  Read Philippians 4:6-7  What should we be praying about?  If God has answered your prayer with "not yet", what should you do?  Besides asking God for things in prayer, what else should we do according to Philippians 4:6-7?  How will this change our hearts?  Make a family prayer jar.  Write down all of the prayers you're praying and place them in the jar.  Then each month re-read them and see all that God has done!  If He's answered a prayer- thank Him and take it out of the jar. If you want to, you can hang them on the fridge, on a bulletin board, or on a strung up piece of ribbon to remind you of all God has done!  If He hasn't answered a prayer yet, place it back in the jar and keep on praying!

Pray!

Perseverance

Weekly Memory Verse: Galatians 6:9  So let's not get tired of doing what is good.  At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up.

Brainstorm:  When is a time you have had to show perseverance in your faith?  Has anyone ever made fun of you for following Jesus?  If so, what did you do?  If not, how can you prepare yourself for when that may happen?

Activity 1:  Read Genesis 6, 7, and 8 (or the story of Noah's ark in your children's Bible)  How did building the ark take courage?  Where did Noah get his courage?  Why did Noah continue to build an ark in the desert even when people made fun of him?  Why is it important to follow God even if it's unpopular or uncool to some people?  How can you find the strength to follow Jesus when people are making fun of you for it?  Noah's ark snack:  Make an ark by arranging graham crackers on a plate.  Then use fruit loops to make a rainbow over it with marshmallow clouds on each end.  (you can also make a rainbow with Skittles for a gluten free option!)

Activity 2:  Read Genesis 37:18-28 and 39:19-20 (or the story of Joseph and the coat of many colors in your children's Bible). What bad things happened to Joseph?  Did Joseph give up on God even though he was sold into slavery and then later thrown into jail for something he didn't do?  Read Genesis 41:1-16 and 41:37-40   How did God reward Joseph's faithfulness?  How did this benefit his family down the road?  Did Joseph show his brothers grace or vengeance?  How do you think he was able to do that?  Draw an outline of a coat.  Color wide stripes along it using many colors.  Write Joseph's character traits on each stripe (ex. faithful, loyal to God, etc.)

Pray!

Where do I get Courage?

Weekly Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 16:13 Be on guard.  Stand firm in the faith.  Be courageous.  Be strong.

Brainstorm:  Our lesson point this week was "God gives me courage to do what's right."  What is something you need to ask God for the courage to do?

Activity 1:  Read Deuteronomy 31:6-8  What phrases are repeated in these verses?  Why do you think Moses (the author of Deuteronomy) said them twice?  These verses come from the story of when the Israelites claimed the promised land after 40 years in the desert- how do you think they can still apply to your life today?  Read 2 Timothy 1:7  Choose words from this verse that stand out as well as words from Deuteronomy 31:6-8 (ie. strong, courageous, not afraid, etc.)  Write each of them on a strip of paper.  Staple all of the words together in interlocking loops to make a courage chain!

Activity 2:  Read 1 Samuel 17:12-51  (or the story of David and Goliath in your children's Bible).  How did David show courage?  Where did David's courage come from?  Why did David stand up to Goliath?  What is a way you can stand up for God in your life?  Have each family member write 1-2 things they need courage for on disposable cups.  Stack them pyramid style.  Write "God's help" on several pieces of paper and ball them up.  Take turns trying to knock the cups down with the balls of paper that represent God's help!

Pray!

Knowing God's Word

Weekly Memory Verse:  Matthew 4:4 But Jesus told him, "People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God."

Brainstorm:  How does God's word feed your spirit?  What else should we do to draw closer to God?  When should we pray?  (read 1 Thessalonians 5:16 for a hint!)

Activity 1:  Read Psalm 119:11-16 and Psalm 119:105  What do these verses teach us?  Is it important to memorize Bible verses?  Why?  How does knowing God's word help us?  Are we only supposed to memorize Bible verses, or is there more to it?  (read Hebrews 4:12 for a hint!)  Write your Bible memory verse for the week on a post-it note or small piece of paper and stick it to your bathroom mirror.  Each time you brush your teeth or wash your hands, practice saying the verse.  See if you can say it without peeking by Saturday!

Activity 2:  Read Proverbs 18:15  What does God want us to do according to this verse?  How can we gain knowledge about God?  Read Romans 11:33-36  Are we expected, as Christians, to know everything about the Bible and God?  Is it ok to have questions about God?  Who is the only one who knows everything?  Why do you think God doesn't reveal everything about Himself to us?  Have everyone in your family write down a question they have about God or the Bible and place it in a bowl.  Read them, and try to discover the answers together! 

Pray!

Fruit of the Spirit

Weekly Memory Verse: James 4:8 Come close to me and I will come close to you.

Brainstorm: What do you think it means to be close to God?  How do you think a kid can tell if they're close to God?  What happens in your life when you are close to God?  What happens when you're far away from Him?

Activity 1:  Read Galatians 5:22-23  What is "the fruit of the spirit"?  How do you get the fruit of the spirit?  Draw a tree.  Label the trunk "God" and write each of the fruits of the spirit on the branches or leaves.  When we spend time with God, our lives will be filled with His fruit (love, peace, joy, patience, kindness, etc.) because His spirit is in us.  The fruit of the spirit isn't a list of things we should try to do on our own, but things that will naturally fill our lives as we spend time with God everyday!

Activity 2:  Read John 15:5-6  What similarities do you see between this verse and Galatians 5:22-23 (you can reread it if you need to)?  What does Jesus mean by "fruit"?  How do you produce "fruit" in your life?  What happens to those who don't remain in Jesus?  Listen to, sing and dance along with the song "God is the Vine" .

Pray!

Getting Distracted vs. Staying Focused

Weekly Memory Verse: John 3:30 He must become greater and greater and I must become less and less.

Brainstorm: Our lesson point this week was "Add more God, subtract more me."  What are some ways you can "add more God, subtract more me" in your family?

Activity 1: Read Luke 10:38-42 Which sister was distracted in the story?  What was she distracted by?  Which sister "discovered the one thing worth being concerned about"?  What was it?  Are things in life that keep us busy bad?  What can happen when we get too busy?  Make a list of all the things you do in your life.  Cut them out and put them in order from most important to least important.  Is there anything you can take out or do less of so that you'll have more time to spend with God?

Activity 2: Read Luke 4:1-4 This week our lesson described "fasting" as giving something up so that you have more room for God.  Who fasted in Luke 4:1-4?  If even Jesus fasted, do you think it's something we should do?  Why is it good to fast?  When we empty ourselves of distractions, God can fill us up!  Take two cups and label one "Give Up" and one "Fill Up".  Cut up some strips of paper and on each piece write down things you can give up for one day such as video games, TV, tablets, junk food, etc.  Place them in the cup labeled "Give Up".  Then, list some things you can do to spend time with God so that He can fill you up- such as praying, reading a Bible story, working on your memory verse or singing a worship song.  Each day this week, choose a slip of paper from each cup and follow what it says- give something up so God can fill you up!  (You can reuse each idea, just pop them back in the cup and give it a shake!)

Pray!

"The Trap Of Being A People Pleaser"

Read: Proverbs 29:25 (GNT)

Relate: Do you think everyone will like you?

Respond:

• What did Jesus do to help people?
• Even after Jesus did so much to help people, did everyone like Him?  Read what Jesus said in John 15:18.
• Should we be more concerned about what God thinks of us or other people?
• Read Ephesians 2:10.  What does that say about us?
• PRAY

"Spiritually Stuck" Jan. 22, 2023

Read: John 17:15-20

Relate: The words you just read was a prayer that Jesus prayed for those who would believe in Him.  Did you ever think that Jesus would pray for us?

Respond:

• Do you think Jesus desires for us to grow in our relationship with Him?
• What would stop us from getting to know Jesus better?
• How can we grow in our relationship with Jesus and get to know Him better?
• If someone chooses to follow Jesus, should they act different than everybody else?
• Read John 17:17.  Does God teach us what is true? 
• How can we know God's truth?
• Pray 

"Worried & Wound-Up" Jan. 15, 2023

Read: Philippians 4:6

Relate: What do you worry about?

Respond:

• What does Philippians 4:6 tell us to do when we worry?
• Do you believe God will help you with anything you go through?
• Does God only care about the big things that happen in our lives or everything that happens in our lives?
• What are we to do when God helps us get through something difficult?
• Read Jeremiah 17:7-8, what are we like when we trust God.
• Pray

"How To Handle Hurt" Jan. 8, 2023

Read: Psalm 34:17-19

Relate: Have you had someone hurt your feelings?  How did it make you feel?

Respond:

• When someone hurts your feelings, do you want to hurt them back?
• Read Ephesians 4:26, what does that say about getting mad at someone?
• When you need help who do your usually go to?
• Does God hear you when you ask Him for help? Read Psalm 34:17
• Read Ephesians 4:31-32.  Are we to forgive people who hurt us?
• Pray

"Don't Let Guilt Drag You Down" Jan. 1, 2023

Read: Psalm 32:1-5

Relate: How do you feel when you do something wrong?

Respond:

• How would you describe sin?
• Has everyone sinned? Read Romans 3:23
• Is it good that we feel bad when we do something wrong?  If so, why is that good?
• Read Proverbs 28:13, what does that say about people who do not admit their sin?
• Do you think God loves us less when we sin?
• Read 1 John 1:9 what does this say about God's willingness to forgive us?
• Pray

"The Word Is Out" Dec. 18, 2022

Read: Luke 2:8-18
Relate: If you were one of the shepherds who heard the exciting news that Jesus was just born, what would you do first?

RESPOND:

• Do you think the Shepherds were expecting the news that Jesus would be born that night?
• Why did God send Jesus into the world? (Read John 3:16)
• What do you think the Shepherds did when they found Jesus?
• How can you express your love for Jesus?
• After the Shepherds saw Jesus, they went and told others.  Who can you go to and tell them about Jesus?
• Pray

"When Faith Falters"  Dec. 11, 2022

Read: Luke 1:11-20

Relate: Is it hard for you sometimes to believe what God says?

RESPOND:

• How would you describe what faith is? (Read Hebrews 11:1)
• Is it normal to doubt? (Read Proverbs 3:5)
• Talk about ways we can have faith in God?
• When we call on God does He want to answer us? (Read Jeremiah 33:3)
• PRAY

"How God Moves"  Dec. 4, 2022

Read: Luke 1:26-35

Relate: Do you think Mary had any idea God would use her to bring Jesus into the world?

Respond:

• Does God still speak to people today?  Talk about how God still speaks to us today. (Read 2 Timothy 3:16)
• Who is the Holy Spirit?  (Read John 16:13)
• Talk about a time you believe God spoke to you.  
• How did Mary feel when the angel first spoke to her? (Read Luke 1:29)
• Does God ever tell us something that is not true?  (Read Luke 1:37)
• How did Mary respond to what the angel said? (Read 1:38)
• Pray

"Thankful In Our Purpose" Nov. 27, 2022

Read: Colossians 3:17

Relate: Why do you think God created you?

Respond:

• Can you tell if a person believes in God by the way they talk?  Explain why.
• If a person believes in God, how should they act?
• What does it mean to be a "representative"?
• How can you be a representative of Jesus?
• Read Matthew 6:19-21.  How does that change the way we live our life here on earth?
• When we tell others about Jesus, is that storing up treasures in Heaven?
• When we help someone who is in need, is that storing up treasures in Heaven?
• When we give to God's church, is that storing up treasures in Heaven?
• Pray

"Thankful In Our Praise" Nov. 13, 2022

Read: Colossians 3:16

Relate: What are some ways we can praise Jesus?

Respond:

• What is the message of Jesus?  (Read John 3:16)
• When we accept Jesus we receive his richness or promises.  What promise do we receive in Matthew 11:28.
• What do receive in Galatians 5:22-23?
• What is there a difference between being smart and being wise?
• What are we to do with the wisdom we get from God?  (Colossians 3:16)
• Do you have to be a singer or a musician to praise God or can anyone praise God?  
• What does God want from us when we praise Him? (Colossians 3:16)
• PRAY

"Thankful In Our Peace" Nov. 6, 2022

Read: Colossians 3:15

Relate: Can you have the peace of Christ if you have never received Christ as your Savior?

Respond:

• What are the things that seem to "rule" your life?
• Can we fully understand God's love for us?  (Read Ephesians 3:18-19)
• Does Jesus accept everyone who desires to be saved? (Read Romans 10:13)
• How can you let the peace of Christ rule your life?
• How can we thank Jesus for giving us His peace?
• PRAY

"Tension In The Kitchen" Oct. 16, 2022

Read: Luke 10:38-42 (NLT)

Relate: If you could invite anyone over for dinner, who would you invite and why?

Respond:

• Which is more important?  Getting the approval of your friends or God?  (Read Galatians 1:10)
• How do you think Martha felt not getting help from her sister Mary?
• Who chose the most important thing to do?  Martha or Mary?
• Is it important to spend time with Jesus each and very day?  (Read John 15:5)
• How can you spend time with Jesus?
• PRAY

"Bullheaded & Broken" Oct.  9, 2022

Read: Jonah 1:1-17

Relate: If someone told you they are running from God, how could you help them?

Respond:

• Why do we sometimes not want to do the things God tells us to do?
• What do you think Jonah was thinking about when he was inside the fish for 3 days and nights?
• Does God give us second chances?  If so, what should we do?  (Read Jonah 3:1-3)
• When we disobey God, does God forgive us?  (Read 1 John 1:9)
• Pray

"When A Storm Changes Everything" Oct. 2, 2022

Read: James 1:2-4

Relate: How is life different in places like Ft. Meyers and Naples after Hurrican Ian?

Respond:

• How can we have joy when we go through a difficult time? (James 1:2-4)
• What can we do to get prepared for each day spiritually? (Colossians 4:2)
• As a Christian, does that guarantee a problem free life?  Why or why not?
• Talk about some storms you remember in the Bible.  What happened and why?
• PRAY

"Fighting The Fear Within Us" Sept. 25, 2022

Read: Judges 6:12-16

Relate: Talk about some things that make you fearful?

Respond:

• Did Gideon feel like the Lord was with him and his family?  Why not v.13
• Did Gideon believe his family was the greatest and that he was the strongest in this family? v.15
• No matter what we go through, what is the one thing GOD promises us? v.16
• Read Psalm 105:4.  What does GOD want us to do?
• How can we seek GOD?
• What are we to do when we are fearful?
• PRAY

“How To Handle Disagreements” Sept. 18, 2022

Read: Acts 15:36-41

Relate: How do you react when someone disagrees with you? 

Respond: 

• Talk about how God created us all different?
• Is every suggestion or opinion from someone always good?
• How can we know if a suggestion or viewpoint is something God would approve?
• When someone disagrees with you, is that OK?  Why or why not?
• Read Ephesians 4:26.  Why is important that we don't let our anger control us?
• What does Romans 12:17-19 tell us to do?
• What does Colossians 3:13 tell us about why we should forgive others?
• PRAY

“How To Experience a New Life” Sept. 11, 2022

Read: Mark 5:21-43

Relate: If you were part of the crowd that day with Jesus, what would you ask him for?

Respond: 

• Talk about how the world is “broken” with sickness, difficulties and hurtful people.
• When something bad happens to us, does that always mean we caused it?
• When we go through a difficult time like a sickness or a painful experience with a friend, how would God want us to handle it?
• In what ways did Jairus and the women trust God?
• Jairus had people tell him it was too late to bring Jesus to his house to save his daughter.  How important is it that we hear from God over what other people say?
• How do we hear from God today?
• PRAY