8.16 Family Experience Resources

Under Construction - Week 3

King Solomon is best known for his wisdom and for building God’s temple. Thankfully, he passed on his wisdom so others could have a strong foundation for building up their faith. In this 5-week series, kids will hear from Solomon and the wisdom he shared about the kind of life God wants to help us build. They'll see that God gives them directions to follow, listens to their requests, is worthy of their worship, and gives them true wisdom.

BIG IDEA: God is worthy of our worship.

BIBLE: 2 Chronicles 5:1–14; James 3:9–12

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." James 1:5 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Ask God (point up) when you need help (thumbs up) and He (point up) will help (thumbs up) you (point to self). James 1:5

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG:  The  Wisdom Song and Firm Foundation

 

DISCIPLE: Read 2 Chronicles 5:1-12

  • Provide a copy of the printable for each of your kids. On each tool, have your kids write or draw out different ways they can worship God.

  • The people in today's Bible story finally had a permanent place of worship. You and I can worship God in a building too, like at church, but we can also worship God anywhere and in many different ways!

  • What are some ways you can worship God ...

    • With your mouth? 

    • With your ears? 

    • With your hands? 

    • With your heart? With other people? 

Write or draw your responses on these construction tools. It's great to have a tool kit of different ways to worship!

When we learn to worship God in different ways and in different places we show that God is worthy of our worship.

 

Pray: God, we love to worship you! Remind us to pause in our busy days and worship with our whole lives. You are the most worthy of our attention, love, and worship! Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

8.9 Family Experience Resources

Under Construction - Week 2

King Solomon is best known for his wisdom and for building God’s temple. Thankfully, he passed on his wisdom so others could have a strong foundation for building up their faith. In this 5-week series, kids will hear from Solomon and the wisdom he shared about the kind of life God wants to help us build. They'll see that God gives them directions to follow, listens to their requests, is worthy of their worship, and gives them true wisdom.

BIG IDEA: God listens to our requests.

BIBLE: 1 Kings 3:1–15; Proverbs 22:1–2, 8–9, 22–23

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." James 1:5 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Ask God (point up) when you need help (thumbs up) and He (point up) will help (thumbs up) you (point to self). James 1:5

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG:  The  Wisdom Song and Firm Foundation

 

DISCIPLE: Read 1 Kings 3:1–15
Let's practice taking our requests to God. God is listening to us right now, just like God always is. You can talk to God about anything, but let's try a few together. I will start with something to talk to God about, and in your groups, you can each take a turn talking to God about your own requests!

  • What request do you have for God about ...

    • Your school? 

    • Your church? 

    • Your family? 

    • Your world? 

  • God knows what we need before we even ask. Asking God shows that we know everything we need can only come from God. And when we ask God, God listens to our requests. 

Pray: God, it is so wonderful that you listen to our requests. Help us to have full confidence that you can and want to answer us. Thank you so much for providing what we need and more. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

8.2 Family Experience Resources

Under Construction - Week 1

King Solomon is best known for his wisdom and for building God’s temple. Thankfully, he passed on his wisdom so others could have a strong foundation for building up their faith. In this 5-week series, kids will hear from Solomon and the wisdom he shared about the kind of life God wants to help us build. They'll see that God gives them directions to follow, listens to their requests, is worthy of their worship, and gives them true wisdom.

BIG IDEA: God gives us directions to follow.

BIBLE: 1 Kings 1:5–14, 29–35; James 1:19–25

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." James 1:5 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Ask God (point up) when you need help (thumbs up) and He (point up) will help (thumbs up) you (point to self). James 1:5

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: The  Wisdom Song and Firm Foundation

 

DISCIPLE: Read 1 Kings 1:5–14, 29–35

  • Show your family an image of a "Road Closed" construction sign. 

  • It's time for a construction break! We built up our knowledge of God's words today with the story of Adonijah and how he missed all the signs about God's directions for the next king of Israel.

  • Signs play a big role in a construction zone. Take the "Road Closed" sign, for example. When roads need to be repaved or repaired, this sign helps people know that they can't travel down that road anymore. They're going to need to turn around.

    • What did Adonijah do even though he knew his road to becoming king was closed? 

    • What do you think might have happened if Adonijah had become king? 

    • How did God provide for Solomon and his supporters? 

    • Can you think of a time in your life when God might have given you a "road closed" sign so that you could keep following God and not go the wrong way? 

  • How much trouble would Adonijah have saved himself and everyone else if he had simply followed the clear directions from God? His story serves as a reminder to all of us not to ignore what God is telling us but to follow the directions God gives us. God gives us directions to follow.

Pray: God, thank you for giving us directions to follow. We know we can find these directions in the words you gave us and the people who love us. Whenever we want to go our own way, help us to follow you and seek your wisdom first. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

7.26 Family Experience Resources

Imagine That! - Week 4

In an art class, you'll discover everything you need to know about using your imagination to create brilliant pieces of art. Sometimes, the things you create can help solve a need or show the world something amazing about who God is. In this 4-week series, kids will hear about some of the amazing things God did through Elisha to help people imagine how their gifts could make a difference. They'll see how God asks us to help each other, God can do incredible things, and how God helps us solve big problems. By the end, we'll start to see the wonderful things we can do when we know God gives us more than we can imagine.

BIG IDEA: God gives us more than we can imagine.

BIBLE: Elisha And Naaman: 2 Kings 5:1–14

 

MEMORY VERSE

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

 

Toddler Twist: Jesus made all of us. Ephesians 2:10

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Anything Is Possible and Indescribable

 

DISCIPLE: 

You will need a paintbrush or a photo of one to show your family. Show pictures of famous paintings, like The Frame by Frida Kahlo or Little Girl in a Blue Arm Chair by Mary Cassatt, to accompany this talk. 

 

When we check out iconic artworks, it's amazing to think they were made using something so small and seemingly simple ... can you believe all that beauty comes from a little paintbrush? It's stunning what you can achieve with something so simple.

 

But what's more important, the paintbrush or the painter? 

The painter, of course. The paintbrush is just a tool, but when it's in the hands of a skilled painter, it can create a masterpiece. The painter could also find different uses for the paintbrush, like brushing sauces onto meats or dusting off cobwebs. The possibilities are endless.

 

As Naaman learned, God can do extraordinary things with ordinary things, including you and me. God gives us more than we can imagine!

 

Pray: God, the Creator, thank you for the gift of your love, which is bigger than we can imagine. You give us more than we could ever know to ask for. Help us notice and remember all the good things you have already given us. We trust that whatever you do or don't give us is always what's best. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

7.19 Family Experience Resources

Imagine That! - Week 3

In an art class, you'll discover everything you need to know about using your imagination to create brilliant pieces of art. Sometimes, the things you create can help solve a need or show the world something amazing about who God is. In this 4-week series, kids will hear about some of the amazing things God did through Elisha to help people imagine how their gifts could make a difference. They'll see how God asks us to help each other, God can do incredible things, and how God helps us solve big problems. By the end, we'll start to see the wonderful things we can do when we know God gives us more than we can imagine.

BIG IDEA: God helps us solve big problems.

BIBLE: Elisha And The Famine: 2 Kings 4:38–44

 

MEMORY VERSE

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

 

Toddler Twist: Jesus made all of us. Ephesians 2:10

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Anything Is Possible and Indescribable

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, you'll need a piece of bread for each family member, peanut butter, jelly, plastic knives or spoons, and an assortment of cookie cutters for kids to punch shapes from their bread. Invite kids to decorate their bread shapes with peanut butter and jelly, then eat up!
 

Say: You all took a plain piece of bread and turned it into art. That reminds me of how God can sometimes work wonders through things like food.

 

Today's story is about a special feast that happened even when there were big problems. Get ready to see, hear, and taste God's power to solve problems. Read from a kid friendly Bible 2 Kings 4:38-44

 

Pray: Creative God, no problem is too big or too small for you. You want to hear about our problems because you care. Just like in today's story, you want to help us tackle big problems and show us that your solutions are so awesome there’s even extra good stuff left over. Please turn our problems into possibilities for us and for others. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

7.12 Family Experience Resources

Imagine That! - Week 2

In an art class, you'll discover everything you need to know about using your imagination to create brilliant pieces of art. Sometimes, the things you create can help solve a need or show the world something amazing about who God is. In this 4-week series, kids will hear about some of the amazing things God did through Elisha to help people imagine how their gifts could make a difference. They'll see how God asks us to help each other, God can do incredible things, and how God helps us solve big problems. By the end, we'll start to see the wonderful things we can do when we know God gives us more than we can imagine.

BIG IDEA: God can do impossible things.

BIBLE: Elisha and The Shunammite's Son: 2 Kings 4:8–37

 

MEMORY VERSE

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

 

Toddler Twist: Jesus made all of us. Ephesians 2:10

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Anything Is Possible and Indescribable

 

DISCIPLE: 

You will need a paintbrush or a photo of one to show your family.

A masterpiece isn't made with just one stroke of the paintbrush. Why do you think that is?

Every work of art is made of many brush strokes and mixed paint of different colors. The picture comes to life as the artist adds every stroke. Imagine trying to paint something with just one continuous brush stroke. It'd be impossible. At some point, the brush would run out of paint, and you'd have to lift it off the paper or canvas to get more.

In our Bible story, imagine if the Shunammite woman and Elisha had given up when the boy Elisha promised her passed away. It could have been easy for them to quit when the boy didn't wake up, even after Elisha tried using his staff. Nobody would have blamed them for giving up—this was impossible.

 

But at the moment they were ready to lift their paintbrush, they handed it to God, who creatively allowed some impossible things to happen.

 

Sometimes, life can get tricky with stuff happening all over that seems out of control. But guess what? We have a super awesome God who can do anything. When things seem impossible, we can pray to God and wait for God to answer. God can do impossible things. 

 

Pray: God, you are bigger, stronger, and more creative than we can even imagine. Forgive us for the times we haven't prayed because we didn't trust that you can make impossible things possible. Thank you for being a God who can do impossible things. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

You will need a paintbrush or a photo of one to show your family.

What can this paintbrush do?

Paintbrushes are really cool and enjoyable. They feel a bit ticklish when you gently touch the bristles to your cheek. But, by themselves, paintbrushes can't do a whole lot without paint, water, a canvas, or something to paint on. 

 

Imagine if we took away the paintbrush—what amazing artwork could we make using just water, canvas, or paints? Each of these things needs the others to create something really beautiful.

 

We also need one other to do what God wants us to do. We can't do everything by ourselves. When we work together and share the special talents God gave us, we can create something amazing! God asks us to help each other. 
 

Pray: God, thank you for being our Creator. We can see how creative you are in the tree leaves, a puppy's nose, and the cool shape inside our ears. Please help us use our creativity to help others, just like you want us to. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

7.5 Family Experience Resources

Imagine That! - Week 1

In an art class, you'll discover everything you need to know about using your imagination to create brilliant pieces of art. Sometimes, the things you create can help solve a need or show the world something amazing about who God is. In this 4-week series, kids will hear about some of the amazing things God did through Elisha to help people imagine how their gifts could make a difference. They'll see how God asks us to help each other, God can do incredible things, and how God helps us solve big problems. By the end, we'll start to see the wonderful things we can do when we know God gives us more than we can imagine.

BIG IDEA: God asks us to help each other.

 

BIBLE: Elisha and The Widow’s Oil: 2 Kings 4:1–7

 

MEMORY VERSE

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

 

Toddler Twist: Jesus made all of us. Ephesians 2:10

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Anything Is Possible and Indescribable

 

DISCIPLE: 

You will need a paintbrush or a photo of one to show your family.

What can this paintbrush do?

Paintbrushes are really cool and enjoyable. They feel a bit ticklish when you gently touch the bristles to your cheek. But, by themselves, paintbrushes can't do a whole lot without paint, water, a canvas, or something to paint on. 

 

Imagine if we took away the paintbrush—what amazing artwork could we make using just water, canvas, or paints? Each of these things needs the others to create something really beautiful.

 

We also need one other to do what God wants us to do. We can't do everything by ourselves. When we work together and share the special talents God gave us, we can create something amazing! God asks us to help each other. 
 

Pray: God, thank you for being our Creator. We can see how creative you are in the tree leaves, a puppy's nose, and the cool shape inside our ears. Please help us use our creativity to help others, just like you want us to. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

6.28 Family Experience Resources

Fired Up - Week 5

Fire up the ovens! We're headed to the kitchen to bake up something special. Kitchens are incredible places where the most basic ingredients are transformed into delicious treats. Our faith can be a lot like that, too. In this 5-week series, kids will follow the life of the prophet Elijah, whose ministry involved a lot of fire and bread as he formed a special relationship with God. They'll learn how knowing God helps me find what I need, hears my voice, guides me when I'm scared, comforts me, and is always with me are all the ingredients they need to get fired up!

BIG IDEA: God is always with me.

BIBLE: Elijah and the Chariot of Fire: 2 Kings 2:1–14; John 6:25–35

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  “It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Jesus gives us life! Matthew 4:4

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Great are you Lord  and song medley (My God is so Big, This is the Day, & Higher Higher)

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, you'll need index cards, pencils, and colored pencils for each person in your family. Have them write or draw their responses. Since they will make new cards every week, you can punch a hole in the corner and put each week's recipe card on a binder ring.

  • The recipe for everything we need starts with God. Through the story of Elijah going up to heaven in a chariot of fire, we learned that God is always with us.

    • Write or draw about a time when you could tell God was with you. 

    • What are some other ways God has shown up for you? 

  • God is always with me. No matter what I'm feeling and no matter what I've done, God continues to love me and be there for me. How can we thank God for being with us always? 

Pray: God, we are so grateful that you are always here with us. We know that wherever we go, you are with us. Help us to know and feel your presence in a real way. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

6.21 Family Experience Resources

Fired Up - Week 4

Fire up the ovens! We're headed to the kitchen to bake up something special. Kitchens are incredible places where the most basic ingredients are transformed into delicious treats. Our faith can be a lot like that, too. In this 5-week series, kids will follow the life of the prophet Elijah, whose ministry involved a lot of fire and bread as he formed a special relationship with God. They'll learn how knowing God helps me find what I need, hears my voice, guides me when I'm scared, comforts me, and is always with me are all the ingredients they need to get fired up!

BIG IDEA: God comforts me.

BIBLE: God Appears to Elijah: 1 Kings 19:9b–18; 2 Corinthians 1:3–7

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  “It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Jesus gives us life! Matthew 4:4

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Great are you Lord  and song medley (My God is so Big, This is the Day, & Higher Higher)

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, you'll need index cards, pencils, and colored pencils for each person in your family. Have them write or draw their responses. Since they will make new cards every week, you can punch a hole in the corner and put each week's recipe card on a binder ring.

  • The recipe for everything we need starts with God. We find that God comforts us in the story of God appearing to Elijah on Mount Horeb through a gentle whisper.

    • Write or draw about a time when you were comforted.

    • Can you think about some ways you can provide comfort to others?

  • God comforts me. God comforts you. God invites us to comfort someone else, too.

Pray: God, as big and powerful as you are, you comfort us so gently. Help us know that we can come to you with all our feelings. Thank you for giving us comfort when we need it most and also for giving us the ability to comfort others. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

6.14 Family Experience Resources

Fired Up - Week 3 - VBS

Fire up the ovens! We're headed to the kitchen to bake up something special. Kitchens are incredible places where the most basic ingredients are transformed into delicious treats. Our faith can be a lot like that, too. In this 5-week series, kids will follow the life of the prophet Elijah, whose ministry involved a lot of fire and bread as he formed a special relationship with God. They'll learn how knowing God helps me find what I need, hears my voice, guides me when I'm scared, comforts me, and is always with me are all the ingredients they need to get fired up!

Come join us in person for a special VBS celebration! You won't want to miss it!!

6.7 Family Experience Resources

Fired Up - Week 2

Fire up the ovens! We're headed to the kitchen to bake up something special. Kitchens are incredible places where the most basic ingredients are transformed into delicious treats. Our faith can be a lot like that, too. In this 5-week series, kids will follow the life of the prophet Elijah, whose ministry involved a lot of fire and bread as he formed a special relationship with God. They'll learn how knowing God helps me find what I need, hears my voice, guides me when I'm scared, comforts me, and is always with me are all the ingredients they need to get fired up!

BIG IDEA: God hears my voice.

BIBLE: Elijah on Mount Carmel: 1 Kings 18:16–39; Acts 2:1–21

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  “It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Jesus gives us life! Matthew 4:4

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Great are you Lord  and song medley (My God is so Big, This is the Day, & Higher Higher)

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, you'll need index cards, pencils, and colored pencils for each person in your family. Have them write or draw their responses. Since they will make new cards every week, you can punch a hole in the corner and put each week's recipe card on a binder ring.

  • The recipe for everything we need starts with God. We learned through the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal that God hears our voice. While the king, queen, and everyone else tried to drown out Elijah's voice for speaking the truth, God heard his voice and answered his prayer.

  • Write or draw about some things you want God to hear from you today. 

  • God hears my voice and I can trust God to respond—and you can, too!

Pray: God, thank you for hearing my voice. There are times when we feel like nobody hears us, but we know you always do. Not only do you hear us, but you answer us and show us your power and your love. Help us never to give up lifting our voices to you. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

 

5.31 Family Experience Resources

Fired Up - Week 1

Fire up the ovens! We're headed to the kitchen to bake up something special. Kitchens are incredible places where the most basic ingredients are transformed into delicious treats. Our faith can be a lot like that, too. In this 5-week series, kids will follow the life of the prophet Elijah, whose ministry involved a lot of fire and bread as he formed a special relationship with God. They'll learn how knowing God helps me find what I need, hears my voice, guides me when I'm scared, comforts me, and is always with me are all the ingredients they need to get fired up!

BIG IDEA: God helps me find what I need.

BIBLE: Elijah and The Drought: 1 Kings 17:2–16; Psalm 97:1–6

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  “It is written: Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” Matthew 4:4 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Jesus gives us life! Matthew 4:4

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Great are you Lord  and song medley (My God is so Big, This is the Day, & Higher Higher)

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, you'll need index cards, pencils, and colored pencils for each person in your family. Have them write or draw their responses. Since they will make new cards every week, you can punch a hole in the corner and put each week's recipe card on a binder ring.

  • The recipe for everything we need starts with God. We learned through the stories of Elijah and the widow at Zarephath that God helps us find what we need. When Elijah was thirsty, God helped him find a brook for water. When he was hungry, ravens gave him food. And when the widow was about to prepare her last meal, God sent Elijah and provided her with more ingredients.

    • Write about or draw someone God has given you to help you find what you need.

    • How can you be the one that helps another person with their needs? 

  • God helps me find what I need through the people in my life. Sometimes, I am the person that God sends to help someone else.

Pray: God, thank you for helping us find what we need. We know we can trust you to keep providing for us and looking out for our needs. In you, we can find everything we need. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

5.24 Family Experience Resources

What’s Next - Week 4

Puzzles don't come with step-by-step instructions for solving them. That's what makes them so much fun. You have to try to figure out the next best step to take. When Jesus left Earth, his followers had to wonder the same thing — "What's next?" In this 4-week series about the Early Church, kids will see how Jesus' followers solved the puzzle of what to do next and the ways we can follow in their footsteps. As kids discover what to do next, they'll learn they can follow Jesus, pray for others, love like Jesus did, and share the good news.

BIG IDEA: We can share the good news.

BIBLE: Paul in Macedonia: Acts 16:6–15; Matthew 28:18–20

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."  Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: God directs my steps. Ephesians 5:1-2

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: I'm  trusting you and Fly

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, you’ll need the printable on cardstock, cut into postcard-sized half-sheets. Give each family member a postcard and have them write a message on the back. 

 

Sharing the good news can be as simple as letting someone know how much Jesus loves them.

On the lines provided, write the name of someone you want to share the good news with. 

On the left-hand side, write or draw a message to them. 

On the front, decorate your postcard and cut it into a few puzzle pieces. What a fun way to share the good news! 

We shouldn't be shy about the truth of Jesus. When we deliver these postcards, we share the best news ever. Deliver them proudly!

  • We can share the good news.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for always showing us what's next in our journey of following you. In addition to praying for others and loving them the way you do, help us to share the good news with them boldly. Give us the words to say and the opportunities to say them. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

5.17 Family Experience Resources

What’s Next - Week 3

Puzzles don't come with step-by-step instructions for solving them. That's what makes them so much fun. You have to try to figure out the next best step to take. When Jesus left Earth, his followers had to wonder the same thing — "What's next?" In this 4-week series about the Early Church, kids will see how Jesus' followers solved the puzzle of what to do next and the ways we can follow in their footsteps. As kids discover what to do next, they'll learn they can follow Jesus, pray for others, love like Jesus did, and share the good news.

BIG IDEA: We can love like Jesus does.

BIBLE: Peter Meets with Cornelius: Acts 10:1–8; 11:1–18; John 13:34–35

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."  Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: God directs my steps. Ephesians 5:1-2

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: I'm  trusting you and Fly

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, you'll need paper plates, cotton swabs, card stock, and washable paint in red, yellow, blue, and white. Give each family member a plate with a dab of each color of paint, like a palette, along with a cotton swab. Have them mix the colors together however they would like, then write or draw their responses on a piece of card stock. If you don't want to use paint, use crayons in different colors instead.

 

We might be used to sticking with our usual groups and staying away from others. This means we end up excluding people on purpose for no other reason than that they're just not like us.

 

Peter learned in today's Bible story—and we've also learned—that we should be looking for ways to extend God’s love to more than the people closest to us. Instead of sticking to our own little bubbles, we can "mix it up" and welcome others into God's family.

Speaking of which, let's mix up our paint colors and create something new. 

Then, write or draw one way you are going to love someone like Jesus does this week.  Finally, draw a heart around this with the new colors you made. 

 

We can do something new when we reach out and love others the way Jesus does. We can love like Jesus does.

 

Pray: Dear God, thank you for always guiding us and showing us the best way. We know that you created everyone differently on purpose and love us all the same. Help us to love others like Jesus does, the way you never stop loving us! Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

5.10 Family Experience Resources

What’s Next - Week 2

Puzzles don't come with step-by-step instructions for solving them. That's what makes them so much fun. You have to try to figure out the next best step to take. When Jesus left Earth, his followers had to wonder the same thing — "What's next?" In this 4-week series about the Early Church, kids will see how Jesus' followers solved the puzzle of what to do next and the ways we can follow in their footsteps. As kids discover what to do next, they'll learn they can follow Jesus, pray for others, love like Jesus did, and share the good news.

BIG IDEA: We can pray for others.

BIBLE: Peter Prays for Tabitha: Acts 9:36–43; James 5:13–16

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."  Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: God directs my steps. Ephesians 5:1-2

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: I'm  trusting you and Fly

 

DISCIPLE: 

INSTRUCTIONS: For this activity, create a simple path using rope or painter's tape across a room (you can also use sidewalk chalk and do this outside if you desire). Have your kiddo (or kids) take turns starting at the entrance and praying silently until they reach the center (help them pray if they are young).

 

Say: We can lift up prayers for others at any time, even when we're walking from one place to another. As you go through this maze, think about one person and pray for them until you reach the center. 

Praying can be this simple. We do not have to beg or convince God to do something when we pray. God loves us and wants the best for us. We can be honest about our hopes and wants. That means:

We can ask God to make our sick family members well.

We can ask God to help our friends do well in their new schools.

We can ask God to let there be peace in different parts of the world.

As we pray these things, we can also ask God to help us be okay with whatever the outcome is because God knows more than we do.

We can pray for others and trust that God will take care of them.

 

Pray: Dear God, thank you for letting us talk to you at any time through prayer because of Jesus. Help us remember to not only pray for ourselves but also for our loved ones, neighbors, and people all around the world. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

5.3 Family Experience Resources

What’s Next - Week 1

Puzzles don't come with step-by-step instructions for solving them. That's what makes them so much fun. You have to try to figure out the next best step to take. When Jesus left Earth, his followers had to wonder the same thing — "What's next?" In this 4-week series about the Early Church, kids will see how Jesus' followers solved the puzzle of what to do next and the ways we can follow in their footsteps. As kids discover what to do next, they'll learn they can follow Jesus, pray for others, love like Jesus did, and share the good news.

BIG IDEA: We can follow Jesus.

BIBLE: Saul on the Road to Damascus: Acts 9:1–20; 1 Corinthians 15:1–9

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps."  Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: God directs my steps. Ephesians 5:1-2

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: I'm  trusting you and Fly

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, you'll need index cards and pencils. Have your family write or draw their responses on their index cards, then fold them in half the long way. Place everyone's cards on the floor like obstacles, from one end of the room to the other. Invite your kids to start at one end of the room, walk around each of these cards, and make their way to the other side. 

What is something (or someone) that could get in the way of following Jesus? 

Maybe you have family members who actively don't want you to follow Jesus.

Maybe your close friends don't follow Jesus, so you feel alone.

Maybe you just don't know enough about Jesus, so it's hard to follow him.

 

Walk around the path you make filled with obstacles together. Whatever might be making it more challenging for you to follow Jesus, know that he will help you find a way. As you walk around these obstacles, Jesus walks beside you and guides you through every step. We can follow Jesus. 

 

Pray: Jesus, you made it possible for anyone to know, love, and follow you. Help us through anything that stands in the way of us doing that. We want to follow you no matter what's next! Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

4.26 Family Experience Resources

Full Bloom - Week 4

Spring is the season for new beginnings! Whether you're cleaning out parts of your home or watching the flowers bloom in your garden, it's a time for new life and growth. Like a good gardener, Jesus wanted to help cultivate the seeds of faith in his friends so they could all grow closer to God. In this 4-week series, kids will learn all about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus as he sowed the seeds of new life in the world. Kids will discover that God sent Jesus to save us, Jesus understands when we're hurting, makes all things new, and connects us to God.

BIG IDEA: Jesus connects us to God.

BIBLE: Jesus Appears to His Disciples: John 20:19–31; John 15:1–13

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ."  2 Peter 3:18A (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus. 2 Peter 3:18

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Light of the World and Medley

 

DISCIPLE: 

Show your child(children) a large plant leaf or show a picture of a plant leaf where they can see the individual veins of the leaf.

 

Ask: Do you have a favorite leaf?

Some of us may like the giant palm leaves from palm trees or the crunchy leaves we can step on in the fall. There's so much more to plant leaves than size and color, though!

When we look at plant leaves, we can see they have these tiny little lines that help the plants. These are called veins, and they help transport everything a plant needs to all the different parts of the leaf.

Even though they're small, these veins help connect the plant back to the main stem and then down into the roots of the plant. Nutrients and water can move from the roots all the way to the very tip of each leaf. These veins help leaves bloom and grow strong, keeping them connected to the plant.

Jesus does something similar for us, too! He keeps us connected to God so we can grow strong in our faith. Jesus helps us grow and teaches us what it looks like to follow God.

Jesus connects us to God.

 

Pray: God, thank you for including us in your family. You sent Jesus to connect us to you so that one day we can join you in your perfect garden. Thank you for doing something larger-than-life for us. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

4.19 Family Experience Resources

Full Bloom - Week 3

Spring is the season for new beginnings! Whether you're cleaning out parts of your home or watching the flowers bloom in your garden, it's a time for new life and growth. Like a good gardener, Jesus wanted to help cultivate the seeds of faith in his friends so they could all grow closer to God. In this 4-week series, kids will learn all about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus as he sowed the seeds of new life in the world. Kids will discover that God sent Jesus to save us, Jesus understands when we're hurting, makes all things new, and connects us to God.

BIG IDEA: Jesus makes all things new.

BIBLE: Jesus is Alive: Luke 24:1–12; Revelation 22:1–5

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ."  2 Peter 3:18A (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus. 2 Peter 3:18

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Light of the World and Medley

 

DISCIPLE: 

Gather some rocks and permanent markers or paint pens. On one side of the rock, have your family write "old me." On the other side, have them write "new me" and decorate that side with bright colors. 

 

Jesus makes all things new. He doesn't just change one part of our lives, but he can change all of it! When we hand our lives over to Jesus, he helps us live differently.

Remembering what Jesus has done can be hard, but these stone affirmations can help. Holding them in your hand can remind you that God is growing the new you. You can show kindness to others. You can use your gifts to help others. You can live and love like Jesus did.

God rolled away the stone to show us Jesus makes all things new. Whenever we need a reminder of the good things God is doing, we can roll our stones over to see the "new me" God is growing!

 

Pray: Jesus, thank you for what you've done for us. You rose from the grave and made a way for everyone to have a relationship with God. Because of you, we can have a new life. You make all things new, including us! Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

4.12 Family Experience Resources

Full Bloom - Week 2

Spring is the season for new beginnings! Whether you're cleaning out parts of your home or watching the flowers bloom in your garden, it's a time for new life and growth. Like a good gardener, Jesus wanted to help cultivate the seeds of faith in his friends so they could all grow closer to God. In this 4-week series, kids will learn all about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus as he sowed the seeds of new life in the world. Kids will discover that God sent Jesus to save us, Jesus understands when we're hurting, makes all things new, and connects us to God.

BIG IDEA: Jesus understands when we’re hurting.

BIBLE: Jesus Prays in Gethsemane: Matthew 26:36–46; Isaiah 53:1–5

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ."  2 Peter 3:18A (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus. 2 Peter 3:18

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Light of the World and Medley

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, have your kids work together to build a mini bug hotel (like this).  Collect materials around your house like cardboard boxes, spare pieces of thin cardboard, empty paper towel rolls, markers, scissors, pinecones, twigs, and grass. Use glue dots or craft glue to secure items in place. 

  • Cut the paper towel rolls in half and glue them inside the box towards the top or bottom. 

  • Use the spare pieces of cardboard and glue to make different sections of the hotel around the cardboard tubes.

  • Glue the grass, pinecones, and twigs throughout your hotel.

  • Add some toy bugs to complete the bug hotel. 

What great homes we made for our bug friends. We can appreciate them in nature, but when they start getting into our homes, it can become a problem.

Whenever something bugs us, we can take it to Jesus, who will house it away from us. We won't need to worry about it again because Jesus gets what we're going through and can handle our hurt.

 

Ask: What are some things that might be bugging you today or have been recently? 

Jesus knows about all the things that bother us or hurt us. We can pray to God and give our hurts to Jesus because he wants to help us grow. We can trust him because Jesus understands when we're hurting.

 

Pray: God, thank you for reminding us that Jesus knows what it's like to hurt, to be sad, and to feel alone. When we feel hurt, help us remember we can always turn to you. Jesus understands our hurt and is our best source of comfort. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion

4.5 Family Experience Resources

Full Bloom - Week 1

Spring is the season for new beginnings! Whether you're cleaning out parts of your home or watching the flowers bloom in your garden, it's a time for new life and growth. Like a good gardener, Jesus wanted to help cultivate the seeds of faith in his friends so they could all grow closer to God. In this 4-week series, kids will learn all about the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus as he sowed the seeds of new life in the world. Kids will discover that God sent Jesus to save us, Jesus understands when we're hurting, makes all things new, and connects us to God.

BIG IDEA: God sent Jesus to save us.

BIBLE: Jesus Anointed at Bethany: John 12:1–8; Genesis 3:1–24

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary:  "But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ."  2 Peter 3:18A (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: Grow in grace and knowledge of Jesus. 2 Peter 3:18

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Light of the World and Medley

 

DISCIPLE: 

For this activity, follow this tutorial to help your family make their own paper earthworms. 

 

One of the really cool things about worms is how they can take the trash we throw away and turn it into healthy, nutritious soil for plants and flowers. From that soil, our garden can bloom and be full of incredible plants and flowers!

 

Jesus came into the world to do something like that, too. Jesus came to rescue us and help us live full, vibrant lives with God. God sent Jesus to save us.

 

Pray: God, thank you for sending Jesus to save us. Thank you for rescuing us and giving us a chance to grow again. You love us so much, even when we make mistakes. Help us to become more like Jesus. Amen.

 

Parent Devotion