9.17 Family Experience Resources

Choose Your Adventure - Week 3

I can be wise by choosing to do good!

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

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

---

MEMORY VERSE: 

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

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

MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 5:15

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG:  I'm Trusting You

DISCIPLE: 

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION:

What does “blessed” mean?

What does a blessed person delight in?

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

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

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

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

What is something good you can do this week?

9.10 Family Experience Resources

Choose Your Adventure - Week 2

I can be wise by choosing my words carefully!

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

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

---

MEMORY VERSE: 

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

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

MV COLORING PAGE: Ephesians 5:15

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG:  I'm Trusting You

DISCIPLE: 

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION:

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

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

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

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

Why is it important to speak wisely to others?

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

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

9.3 Family Experience Resources

Choose Your Adventure - Week 1

I can be wise by not choosing sides!

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

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

---

MEMORY VERSE: 

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

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

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: I'm Trusting You

DISCIPLE: 

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION:

What is better to have than riches?

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

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

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

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

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

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

8.27 Family Experience Resources

Famous - Week 4

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

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

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

---

MEMORY VERSE: 

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

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

MV COLORING PAGE: 1 Corinthians 10:31

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: In You Alone

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

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

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

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

to be thankful for!

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

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

Disciple Activity 2

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

You can draw a clock to show your time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION:

What did Solomon build for God?

Who wanted to build it before Solomon did?

Why did Solomon thank God?

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

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

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

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

8.20 Family Experience Resources

Famous - Week 3

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

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

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

---

MEMORY VERSE: 

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

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

MV COLORING PAGE: 1 Corinthians 10:31

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: In You Alone

DISCIPLE: 

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

How did you help each other while doing this activity?

Who was there to guide you?

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION: 

What did God ask Solomon in the dream?

Why did Solomon ask for “a discerning heart?”

How did God respond to Solomon’s request?

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

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

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

8.13 Family Experience Resources

Famous - Week 2

When we feel alone, God gives us friends!

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

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

---

MEMORY VERSE: 

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

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

MV COLORING PAGE: 1 Corinthians 10:31

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: In You Alone

DISCIPLE: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION:

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

What advice did Nathan give Bathsheba?

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

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

What are some things you do when you feel alone?

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

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

8.6 Family Experience Resources

Famous - Week 1

When we make mistakes, we can make things right!

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

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

---

MEMORY VERSE: 

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

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

MV COLORING PAGE: 1 Corinthians 10:31

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: In You Alone

DISCIPLE: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why did Nathan tell David this story?

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

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

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

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

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

7.30 Family Experience Resources

Up in the Air - Week 5

I can be used by God!

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

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

BIG IDEA: I can be used by God.

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

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Fly

COLORING: Elisha and Naaman

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION:

What problem did Naaman have?

How did Naaman get healed? 

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

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

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

Why can it be difficult to be used by God? 

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

7.23 Family Experience Resources

Up in the Air - Week 4

I can ask God for what I need!

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

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

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

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

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

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Fly

COLORING: Elisha and the Famine

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

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

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

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

appropriate columns.

What are some needs we have?

What are some wants we might have?

Is there anything here that might be both?

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

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

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

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

DISCUSSION:

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

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

How do you know Elisha asked God for help? 

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

What is one thing you really want right now? 

What is one thing you really need right now? 

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

7.16 Family Experience Resources

Up in the Air - Week 3

I can count on God’s promises!

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

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

BIG IDEA: I can count on God's promises.

MEMORY VERSE: 
 "Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things." Colossians 3:6
 Toddler Twist: "Keep your focus on God." Colossians 3:6 

READ: Elisha and the Shunammite’s son: II Kings 4:8-37; Genesis 18:1-10a

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Fly

COLORING: Elisha and the Shunammite's son

DISCIPLE: Read the above text as a family.

Through Elisha, the Shunammite woman and her family were able to see that God keeps promises, even the ones that seem like they’re too big, too far away, or too late.

Ask: Have you ever been promised something by someone and they didn’t keep their promise? What happened? How did you feel?

I’m sure it felt awful. A broken promise makes us feel so disappointed because we had been counting on that promise to be kept.

But as human beings, it’s really hard to keep all the promises we make!

Have you ever broken a promise?

Most likely we all have! We don’t do it on purpose but sometimes we make promises in the moment because we think we can keep it, but later we have to go back on our word. And like we just talked about, that’s not a great feeling.

But God doesn’t do that. That’s also why God doesn’t promise us that everything will be fine all the time. God knows that we will face challenges. We will get heartbroken. We will not get something we want. But God promises to be with us and help us through all of those things. We can turn to God’s words in the Bible and know for sure that you and I can count on God’s promises! Always!

Pray: God, thank you that you love me and that you have good plans for me. You make promises that you keep. Remind me that I can count on your promises and that you will always do what you say you will. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What promise from God did Elisha tell the Shunammite woman and her husband? 

What happened to this promise they received? 

How did God use Elisha again to help the woman and her family? 

Read Genesis 18:10. What promise did God have for Abraham and Sarah? 

What is a promise? 

Have you ever made a promise before? Did you keep it? 

What is a promise that God has made to you?

7.9 Family Experience Resources

Up in the Air - Week 2

I can have faith in God!

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

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

BIG IDEA: I can have faith in God. 

MEMORY VERSE: 

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

Toddler Twist: "Keep your focus on God." Colossians 3:6 
 
READ: Elisha and the Widow’s Oil: II Kings 4:1-7; Colossians 1:3-14

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Fly

COLORING: Elisha and the Widow's Oil

DISCIPLE: Read the text above and have your children retell the story back to you. What God did through Elisha and the woman is what we call a miracle, something that happens that we can’t really explain. All we know is that God used something so small like oil to solve a really big problem for the woman and her family. When we need help and don’t know what to do, we can have faith that God will take care of us, too!

Have your kids create the best flying airplane that they can. Spend some time flying them. Just like airplanes can help us soar to greater heights than we could on our own, when we have faith in God, God helps us do more than we could ever with our own strength.

The best part is, it doesn’t matter that we are all different. We each have our own strengths, purpose, and unique design (like planes) but all of us can have faith in God.

Pray: God, thank you for reminding us that we can have faith in you. Even though we cannot see you, we know you are always there for us and we can trust you to take care of us. Help us to grow our faith and share it with others, too. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Why was the woman in the Bible story sad? 

What did Elisha tell her to do?

How did God provide for her?

Read Colossians 1:13-14. What has God done for us that shows we can have faith? 

What does having faith mean to you? 

Think of someone else in the Bible who had faith in God. How did their faith help them? 

What is one thing you can do this week to show you have faith in God? 

7.2 Family Experience Resources

Up in the Air - Week 1

I can dream big with God!

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

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

BIG IDEA: I can dream big with God.

MEMORY VERSE: 

"Set your mind on things above, not on earthly things." Colossians 3:6
 Toddler Twist: "Keep your focus on God." Colossians 3:6 

READ:  Elijah Taken Up to Heaven: II Kings 2:1-2, 6-14; Psalm 66:1-9

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Fly

COLORING: Elijah
DISCIPLE: Read the Bible text above.... then discuss the following with your family.

It might have seemed like an impossibly big dream for Elisha to think he could do the things Elijah did. But he really wanted to do great things for God and, guess what? God wanted Elisha to do great things, too!

There is a famous quote that’s credited to Walt Disney that goes, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” So the important part is making sure that you dream.

I know thinking about dreams for ourselves can be a little challenging so let’s start with a dream our family can think about and work toward together.

What is a big dream for our family ministry?

What are some steps our family could take?

When do you think our family should start taking them?

Pray: God, you know me and you hear my prayers and my dreams. I’m so glad that the things that are important to me are also important to you. Help me to trust you with my hopes and remind me that I can dream big with you. Thank you for showing us none of our dreams are out of reach when they come from you. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Before Elijah went to heaven, what did he ask Elisha? 

What did Elisha ask for? What might you have asked for if you were Elisha? 

How do we know that Elisha's big dream came true? 

Read Psalm 66:5-6. How do these verses remind you of today's Bible story? 

What is a dream you have that some people might think are too big? 

What would it take to make your dream come true? 

Why can we trust God with our dreams? 

6.25 Family Experience Resources

Ever After - Week 4
God always takes care of us!

Fairy tales are full of fantasy and imagination. We love them because they take what could be real and add extraordinary circumstances. But what if there was a story where the extraordinary circumstances were real? Could a story like this exist? This month, we are going to look at the story of Ruth to see how God truly writes the best stories for us — full of companions, hope, boldness, and the knowledge that God is always taking care of us!

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

---

BIG IDEA: God always takes care of us.

MEMORY VERSE: 
"The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:8

TODDLER TWIST:

"God always cares for me!" Psalm 121:8 
 
READ: Ruth Marries Boaz: Ruth 4

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Oceans

COLORING: Ruth marries Boaz

DISCIPLE: Read Ruth 4 or retell to your children.

Do you remember what the relative who was supposed to be the guardian-redeemer gave to Boaz? 

• A sandal! By giving him one of his shoes, it became like a contract. Boaz was now the rightful redeemer for Naomi's family.

• INSTRUCTIONS: Read the story, "The Elves and the Shoemaker" (or show a read-aloud video like this one).

• How did the elves take care of the shoemaker and his wife?

• How did the couple take care of the elves?

• What are some ways people take care of you?

• What are some ways you take care of others?

Grow Deeper- Read Matthew 6:26–34 and show this image 

• This passage tells us that just as God takes care of the birds of the air and the flowers in the fields, God cares about us way more than God cares about animals and plants!

• But when we say God always takes care of us, we're not just talking about having food to eat or clothes to wear.

• In the story of Ruth, Boaz took care of the family by becoming a redeemer.

  • When you hear the word redeemer, who else comes to mind? That's right . . . Jesus!

  • Jesus redeemed all of us, too. All people were filled with sin and disobedience to God – for which there are dire consequences.

  • But when Jesus died and rose again, he rescued us from it all. He paid the price for us. That is the greatest way God took care of us. God sent Jesus!

• Want to know something even cooler? [Show genealogy map image] Ruth and Boaz are related to Jesus!

Pray: Dear God, thank you for showing us that you will always take care of us. Thank you for reminding us through Ruth's story that you have an "ever after" story for each of us. Help us believe and trust in you because you sent your son, Jesus, to be the ultimate redeemer we needed! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did Boaz do so that he would be able to marry Ruth? 

How did this sequence of events bring comfort to Naomi? 

Ruth and Boaz are ancestors to other famous people in the Bible. Can you name a couple?

Read Matthew 6:26–34. How do we know God will always take care of us?

If you could be in any fairy tale story, which would you choose? Why?

Describe one time you know God has taken care of you in the past. 

What can you do this week to take care of someone else? 

6.18 Family Experience Resources

Ever After - Week 3
God gives us boldness!

Fairy tales are full of fantasy and imagination. We love them because they take what could be real and add extraordinary circumstances. But what if there was a story where the extraordinary circumstances were real? Could a story like this exist? This month, we are going to look at the story of Ruth to see how God truly writes the best stories for us — full of companions, hope, boldness, and the knowledge that God is always taking care of us!

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

---

BIG IDEA: God gives us boldness

MEMORY VERSE: 
"The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:8

TODDLER TWIST:

"God always cares for me!" Psalm 121:8

READ: Ruth and Naomi leave Moab: Ruth 3

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Oceans

COLORING: Ruth Asks Boaz for Help

DISCIPLE: 

Have you ever noticed that a lot of classic fairy tales are about a princess that needs to be rescued by a knight in shining armor? Those are fun and all, but the story of Ruth reminds us that in some fairy tales, the "princess" already has everything she needs to overcome her situation. 

At first glance, the story of Ruth might appear to be simply about a woman trying to find a new husband, but as we learned today, she does a fair amount of work to survive on her own! 

The story of Mulan is another one that doesn't play out the way typical fairy tales do. 

INSTRUCTIONS: Show this clip (or a part of it) from Mulan. 

What are the different ways Mulan was bold in this video? 

Do you see any similarities between Mulan and Ruth? 

• Both of these women were expected to fulfill their duties only as someone's wife. But they both were so much more than that.

  • Mulan decided to enlist in the army to spare her father from having to fight, during a time she could have been sentenced to death for doing so.

  • Ruth went out and found ways to provide for her only remaining family member in a land where she was seen as a foreigner. Even the way she went to Boaz for help was unusually brave.

• Both of these heroines show us that in order to be bold, we sometimes need to disregard what other people think in favor of doing what is good and what is right. And God gives us boldness to do that!

Because God gives us boldness, there are things we can do every day to help us be bold! List some ways you can be bold. It can be . . . 

• Trying something new

• Doing what is right

• Facing a fear

• Standing up for a person or a cause

• Being honest about something

Pray: Dear God, thank you for giving us boldness to do what is good and right. We know that being bold can be intimidating, but we know you are with us. Help us to use the boldness you give us to better serve you and others. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did Naomi tell Ruth to do? 

How would Boaz be able to help Ruth? 

In what ways was Ruth bold in this story? 

Read Psalm 42:5. How is this verse about boldness? 

Do you consider yourself a bold person? Why or why not? 

When is an appropriate time to be bold? When might it not be? 

How is asking for help an example of boldness? 

6.11 Family Experience Resources

Ever After - Week 2
God gives us hope!

Fairy tales are full of fantasy and imagination. We love them because they take what could be real and add extraordinary circumstances. But what if there was a story where the extraordinary circumstances were real? Could a story like this exist? This month, we are going to look at the story of Ruth to see how God truly writes the best stories for us — full of companions, hope, boldness, and the knowledge that God is always taking care of us!

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

---

BIG IDEA: God gives us hope.

MEMORY VERSE: 
"The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:8

TODDLER TWIST:

"God always cares for me!" Psalm 121:8

READ: Ruth meets Boaz: Ruth 2

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Oceans

COLORING: Ruth and Naomi leave Moab

DISCIPLE: Read Ruth 2 or retell for your children.

A lot of fairytales have characters we might call "hopeless romantics." These are people who continue to believe in love even though they have experienced heartbreak time and time again. No matter what kind of disappointment they might have faced, they never give up on finding love!

That doesn't sound hopeless at all! These people are full of hope! They should be called hopeful romantics! 

Can you think of a time when you experienced hope?  Share your own story of hope with your family. A time when someone showed up for you to offer you hope in a hopeless situation. Invite your kids to do the same. 

God gives us hope, but also enables us to give hope to others. We can be the hands and feet that spread hope to people who are feeling hopeless. 

• INSTRUCTIONS: Discuss ways your family can give hope to other people around them this week. Then have them trace their hands and their feet (with or without shoes on, up to you!) on pieces of paper. On the hand, have them write one thing they can do to help someone have hope. On the foot, have them write a place they can go where they might find someone in need of hope.

Where is somewhere you can go where you might find someone in need of hope? Write or draw about it on the outline of your foot. 

What can you do to give them hope? Write or draw about it on the outline of your hand.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for showing us through Ruth's story that in any situation, hope can always be found in you. Help us to never give up even when things are tough and show us how we can give others hope. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

How did Ruth provide for Naomi and herself? 

What did Boaz do to show kindness to Ruth?

Why do you think Boaz did this for Ruth? 

Read Romans 5:3-4. How does suffering lead to hope? 

Describe hope in your own words. 

Have you ever felt hopeless? How come? 

What is an example of something God has done in the past that shows us hope?

6.4 Family Experience Resources

Ever After - Week 1
God gives us companions!

Fairy tales are full of fantasy and imagination. We love them because they take what could be real and add extraordinary circumstances. But what if there was a story where the extraordinary circumstances were real? Could a story like this exist? This month, we are going to look at the story of Ruth to see how God truly writes the best stories for us — full of companions, hope, boldness, and the knowledge that God is always taking care of us!

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

---

MEMORY VERSE: 
"The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." Psalm 121:8

TODDLER TWIST:

"God always cares for me!" Psalm 121:8

READ: Ruth and Naomi Leave Moab: Ruth 1

WATCH:

Preschool- Teaching Video

Elementary- Teaching Video

SONG: Oceans

COLORING PAGE: Ruth and Naomi

DISCIPLE: Read Ruth 1 or retell in your own words to your children. 

• INSTRUCTIONS: Take the your kids outside if possible. If not, have several flashlights available. Take turns drawing the other's shadow on the ground. Use chalk if you're outside or a large sheet of paper with a washable marker if you are inside.

  • Option 2: Instead of tracing themselves, have your kids trace shadows of two things side by side (e.g., two dinosaur toys, two stuffed animals, two dolls, etc.).

• God sent Ruth to be Naomi's companion during a difficult time in her life. God can send friends, family, maybe even animal friends, like many fairy tales, to give us hope and encouragement. But there is another companion that is always there for us, that we can't really see . . . kind of like our shadow. And that's God. Of course, your shadow disappears when there's no light, but God is there all the time – especially when things look dark! God gives us companions, and sometimes that companion is God!

Pray: Dear God, thank you for sending us friends and companions. Thank you most of all that because of Jesus we are never alone. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

Why did Naomi and her family leave their hometown and move to Moab?

What kinds of difficulties did Naomi face in Moab?

What did Ruth say when Naomi told her not to follow her?

Read Acts 2:4. Why do you think the Holy Spirit allowed the people to speak other languages? 

Describe a time when you would need a companion. 

What are some ways you can be a good companion to others? 

What can you do to remind yourself in hard times that God (and the Holy Spirit) is your forever companion?

5.28 Family Experience Resources

The Messengers - Week 4
God’s Message Goes Everywhere!

How many ways can you send a message? There are so many unique ways! Special deliveries are the best but even better are the messages found in each package. This month, we are going to look at the most important message that was ever sent out and how we are meant to be the ones delivering it. Our families are God’s messengers that can share the stories of God’s miracles and help. Get involved in helping God’s message go everywhere because God delivers everyone!

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

---

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. send me." Isaiah 6:8 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "I will tell others about Jesus." Isaiah 6:8

READ: Paul Shares the Gospel: Acts 16:9-15

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: He is the Light

ACTIVITY: Read Acts 16:9-15.

Paul went to many places to deliver God’s message about Jesus.

In today’s story, we read about Lydia. Do you remember what her job was? She sold purple cloth. We are going to use this purple cloth to help us remember today’s Big Idea.

INSTRUCTIONS: Have your kids glue two popsicle sticks on opposite ends of a piece of cardstock paper. Then using hot glue or tape, connect the sticks with a length of yarn. Then clip on four mini clothespins on the yarn. Precut small strips of purple fabric or paper and write “God’s message” and “goes everywhere.” on separate pieces with a permanent marker. Hang up the purple fabric on their clothesline.

When Paul told Lydia about Jesus, what happened? She believed and decided to follow Jesus. God’s message goes everywhere!

COLORING: Paul shares the Gospel

DISCIPLE: 

After reading Acts 16:9-15. Paul went to many places to deliver God’s message about Jesus. Let’s follow his journey on this awesome map!

Show your families this interactive map of Paul’s missionary journeys and click on the names of cities mentioned in today’s story.

Wow! He went to all these places to deliver God’s message, and there weren’t even any steam ships or airplanes yet!

What are some of the cities Paul went to in today’s story?

Troas? Samothrace? Philippi? Thyatira? Let’s find some of these on the map!

Isn’t it amazing that one person could bring God’s message to all these places? But as you know, it didn’t stop there! People kept sharing about God . . . all across the globe!

God’s message goes everywhere!

Pray: God, thank you for sending your love everywhere. Show us how we can share the message of Jesus no matter where we are. We know you want everyone to know you like we do! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What happened in Paul’s vision?

What was the name of one of the women who heard Paul's message? What was her profession?

What happened when Lydia heard Paul’s message?

Read Matthew 28:18–20. What does Jesus ask us to do?

If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you want to go? 

Name a place where you think it might difficult to share God's message. How could you do it anyway? 

Why is it important that God's message go everywhere? 

5.21 Family Experience Resources

The Messengers - Week 3
God can deliver everyone!

How many ways can you send a message? There are so many unique ways! Special deliveries are the best but even better are the messages found in each package. This month, we are going to look at the most important message that was ever sent out and how we are meant to be the ones delivering it. Our families are God’s messengers that can share the stories of God’s miracles and help. Get involved in helping God’s message go everywhere because God delivers everyone!

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

---

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. send me." Isaiah 6:8 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "I will tell others about Jesus." Isaiah 6:8

READ: Peter's Vision: Acts 11:1-18

WATCH: teaching video

SONG: He is the Light

ACTIVITY: 

INSTRUCTIONS: Show this video, then print this printable. On the printable, have your kids draw a picture of all different kinds of people. Help them write out the Big Idea somewhere on the paper, or create stickers containing the Big Idea they can stick on when they’re done.

When a truck makes a delivery, it doesn’t matter who the person receiving it is. The package is taken to whoever’s name and address is on it. The messenger can’t just say they don’t want to deliver something. Their job is to deliver to everyone on the list.

Does God love some people or all people?

God can deliver everyone! This means that anyone can know God.

COLORING: Peter's Vision
DISCIPLE: 

Read Acts 11:1-18. Everyone was amazed to see that the Holy Spirit was available to everyone.

Tell a story about a time when you had a party and you forgot to invite someone. Or a time when you weren’t invited to a party you expected to be invited to. Let your families share their own experiences if they’d like.

Nobody likes being left out. Thankfully, God doesn’t leave anyone out. Everyone is supposed to hear the message of God’s love. Everyone deserves an invitation because God can deliver everyone!

Pray: God, thank you for showing us you can deliver everyone. You don’t leave anyone out. Teach us how we can be like you and make sure everyone we know feels included and loved by you! Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What did Peter see in his vision?

How did Peter change because of his vision?

Read Acts 11:15–17. What helped Peter see that welcoming Gentiles into the church was God's way?

Read John 13:34–35. How will others know that you love and follow Jesus? 

What are some ways we keep others out of our circle of friends? How about out of our church?

What can we change to make sure we welcome everyone?

How can we as a church show the world that we follow Jesus?

5.14 Family Experience Resources

The Messengers - Week 2
We can share the stories of God’s Miracles!

How many ways can you send a message? There are so many unique ways! Special deliveries are the best but even better are the messages found in each package. This month, we are going to look at the most important message that was ever sent out and how we are meant to be the ones delivering it. Our families are God’s messengers that can share the stories of God’s miracles and help. Get involved in helping God’s message go everywhere because God delivers everyone!

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

---

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. send me." Isaiah 6:8 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "I will tell others about Jesus." Isaiah 6:8

READ: Peter Heals Tabitha: Acts 9:36-43

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: He is the Light

ACTIVITY: 

Read today's Bible story in Acts 9:36-43

INSTRUCTIONS: Provide pipe cleaners for kids to make a flower arrangement for someone that might be sick or need encouragement. Follow these instructions.

Tabitha seems to have been surrounded by a community of people who cared about her when she got sick. There are people in our lives that need that kind of caring community, too. We can share the stories of God’s miracles to show that God cares about them, and we can show that we care about them also!

COLORING: Peter Heals Tabitha

DISCIPLE: 

Read or tell today's bible story in Acts 9:36-43. 

Everyone in town heard about what had happened and decided to follow Jesus, too. They knew that the God that Peter and Tabitha believed in was the only one who could do miracles like this!

INSTRUCTIONS: Use a box of tissues for this activity. Make sure you use the style of box in which another tissue automatically pops up when you remove one. I brought a box of tissues because I had a feeling I might want to cry today. Like at the beginning of today’s story, I was so sad when I found out Tabitha got sick and died.

You were too, right? Here, have a tissue. Did you notice that each time I pull out a tissue, another pops up? Why is that? It’s because they are connected! Just like we are all connected. We are connected because we all know about God. But you know what else we can do? We can connect other people to God, too. How? By telling someone about God. Maybe someone is sick and needs you to pray for them. Maybe someone is feeling down and needs you to cheer them up. Or needs kind words. Or just a tissue! We can share stories of God’s miracles!

Pray: God, remind us to share the stories of your miracles as a way to encourage the people around us. Nothing is impossible for you! Thank you for loving us and for hearing our prayers.

DISCUSSION:

What was Tabitha known for before she died?

What did Peter do when Tabitha's friends asked him for help?

What happened when the people in Tabitha's town heard what had happened?

Read Psalm 77:11. Is there a miracle from the Bible you remember? 

How do you think sharing stories of God's miracles can help others?

How do you know God still does miracles?

Who can you share the stories of God’s miracles with? What will you tell them?

5.7 Family Experience Resources

The Messengers - Week 1

How many ways can you send a message? There are so many unique ways! Special deliveries are the best but even better are the messages found in each package. This month, we are going to look at the most important message that was ever sent out and how we are meant to be the ones delivering it. Our families are God’s messengers that can share the stories of God’s miracles and help. Get involved in helping God’s message go everywhere because God delivers everyone!

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

---

We are God’s Messengers! 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" And I said, "Here am I. send me." Isaiah 6:8 (NIV) 

Toddler Twist: "I will tell others about Jesus." Isaiah 6:8

READ: Saul's Conversion: Acts 9:1-20

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: He is the Light

ACTIVITY: 

Read today's Bible story in Acts 9:1-20. After Saul met Jesus, he became a messenger for God. Who would have thought? He used to really not like followers of God. Now he was one, too!

You know who else used to be messengers that you might not have thought of? Pigeons! People would tie messages on the legs of these birds and the birds would fly hundred of miles to deliver them. Let’s make our own messenger pigeons to remember that we are God’s messengers!

INSTRUCTIONS: Cut out a printable for each kid. Cut along the line in the middle of the bird using a craft knife (or fold the paper and use scissors). Take a piece of paper and help your kids do a fan-fold along the long edge of the paper. Bunching up all the folds together, insert the paper into the slit

in the bird to make the wings. The final product might look this this. Have them write the Big Idea (We Are God's Messengers) on the wing paper before folding it up.

COLORING: Saul's Conversion

DISCIPLE: 

A messenger, like we’ve been talking about, is someone who delivers a message. Some messengers give speeches or sermons. Others write letters, articles, or books. And some deliver their messages through songs.

Who do you know that is a messenger? A teacher? A pastor? A parent? A favorite singer? What does it take to be a messenger? Do they need to have a great speaking voice? Do they need to be dramatic actors? Or do they just need to have a message to pass along?

To be God’s messenger, you don’t need to have special talents. You just need to be willing, like Paul was. And when you are willing, you will find that you do, in fact, have skills and talents you can use to tell others about God.

Paul traveled around and started churches. He also wrote letters to encourage the churches he had started so they could keep on doing God’s work faithfully.

How can you be God’s messengers? Think of some ways. Do you write letters, like Paul? Do you travel from place to place, telling people about Jesus? Or do you pray for someone, like Ananias?

Think of different ways you can share the message about Jesus because we are God’s messengers. Write them down and encourage your families to actively use those ideas this month.

Pray:  God, thank you for making us all your messengers! We are grateful that we don’t need any special talents to deliver your message. We just need to be willing, like Paul was. Please help us to deliver the message about Jesus to the people around us this week. Amen.

DISCUSSION:

What happened to Saul on the road to Damascus?

What happened to Saul after he heard the voice?

How was Ananias a messenger for God? 

Read Acts 9:11–15. How do you think Ananias felt about helping someone like Saul?

How can you be a messenger of God? 

What is the message we need to deliver?

Who can you deliver God’s message to this week?