11.4 Family Experience Resources

Behind the scenes - Week 1

The most important part of any play is what happens “behind the scenes.” There’s lighting, wardrobe, casting, playwriting — so much has to happen perfectly to bring the production together! In the story of Esther, there is a whole lot going on behind the scenes, too. In this four-week series, our families will discover the most important character in Esther’s story isn’t always center-stage, but can often be found behind the scenes working, helping, giving support and giving peace. (Spoiler alert: It's God!)

BIG IDEA: God works behind the scenes.


READ: Scene I. Esther Becomes Queen: Esther 2:1-18; 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose." Phillipians 2:13 (NIV)

 

Toddler Twist: "God has good plans for us!" Philippians 2:13

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Million Little Miracles and How Amazing

 

DISCIPLE:

Tell a short story about a moment in your childhood when you didn’t really know what an

outcome would be. Share a few ways you can look back now and see how God was at work behind the scenes.

Begin with how it started and end with how it’s going now. Even if things are still difficult, notice the places where you saw God taking care of you or helping you along the way!

 

Pray: God, thank you for always being at work behind the scenes, even though we don’t always notice you are. Help us to remember that we are never alone in the things we go through. Deep down, we know we’re safest and bravest when we’re trusting you. Amen.

 

DISCUSS:

  • Why was it necessary to find a new queen?

  • Who was Mordecai?

  • What was the secret Mordecai told Esther to keep?

  • Read 2 Thessalonians 2:16—17. Who encourages us to do good?

  • Name a few different kinds of work people do behind the scenes.

  • Can you think of some ways God works behind the scenes for us?

  • Why do you think God sometimes works behind the scenes and not center stage?

10.29 Family Experience Resources

Hear Me Roar - Week 5

There’s a reason lions are symbols of courage — even their roars (which can be heard up to five miles away) tell us how strong they are! And because of God’s promises, we can be as strong and bold as lions, too. In this five-week series, our kids will learn important truths from the life of Daniel they’ll want to shout (or roar!), like how we don’t have to give up and don’t have to feel alone. Instead, we can keep learning and not be afraid, even when we don’t know the future. Why? Because God is with us!

BIG IDEA: I don’t know the future but I know God is with me!
READ: Daniel’s Dream: Daniel 7; 2 Thessalonians 1:1-4

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” Nahum 1:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God loves us and protects us." Nahum 1:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: 10,000 Armies and God is With Me

 

DISCIPLE:

Gather your family together. Give them paper and drawing supplies. While they work, play a song that speaks to this week’s Big Idea, like “Won’t Worry ‘Bout a Thing” (Lifetree Kids). 

When you think about the future, what makes you feel insecure or nervous? Draw a picture that represents your fears or worries.

Now write God in giant letters on top of your drawing. How do you feel about these so-called giants now, knowing God is even bigger than these unknown things?

Pray: God, the Bible says you are the beginning and the end, which means you are, you have, and you always will be with us. You have taken care of me in the past, so I can trust you will help me with whatever comes next. I don’t know the future, but I can live with peace and confidence because I know you are with me! Amen.

 

DISCUSS:

  • When Daniel was troubled about what he saw, what did he do?

  • Did Daniel know exactly what would happen with the four beasts?

  • Since he didn’t get to see what happened next, what helped Daniel as he thought about the future?

  • Read 2 Thessalonians 1:1–4. In what ways did Paul, Silas, and Timothy encourage their friends who may have been worried about the future?

  • What is your biggest dream for the future?

  • What about the future makes you feel the most uncomfortable?

  • What can help us feel better about facing unknown situations?

10.21 Family Experience Resources

Hear Me Roar - Week 4

There’s a reason lions are symbols of courage — even their roars (which can be heard up to five miles away) tell us how strong they are! And because of God’s promises, we can be as strong and bold as lions, too. In this five-week series, our kids will learn important truths from the life of Daniel they’ll want to shout (or roar!), like how we don’t have to give up and don’t have to feel alone. Instead, we can keep learning and not be afraid, even when we don’t know the future. Why? Because God is with us!

BIG IDEA: I’m not afraid — God is with me!
READ: Daniel in the Lions’ Den: Daniel 6; 2 Timothy 4:16-18

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” Nahum 1:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God loves us and protects us." Nahum 1:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: 10,000 Armies and God is With Me

 

DISCIPLE:

Read or tell today's Bible story- Daniel 6. 

When animals are afraid, they often blend into their environments. They camouflage themselves in order to hide from predators. In fact, one of our snow leopards got spooked by the howl of a wolf, and she hid up against the white wall of her enclosure for hours! In the wild, the snow leopards are amazing at blending in with the cold terrain in their homelands, like the Siberian mountains in Russia. (Show this image of a Siberian snow leopard).

Play a game of “Siberian Hide and Seek.” Choose someone to shout “camouflage,” that person will close their eyes and count to ten. Remaining family members are "snow leopards." They will have ten seconds to find somewhere around the room to hide and camouflage themselves.

The "it" will remain where they are standing, and will not move, but will search all around the room by only looking for twenty seconds. If they see a "snow leopard", then they are out! If the "it" person hasn’t found any snow leopards after the twenty seconds, they will yell “nomad!” At that point, it’s safe for all snow leopards to come out and roam around again. After “nomad” is yelled out,  the "it" person will count to five with their eyes closed.. The first person to reach the "it" person in those five seconds, is the winner!

 

Pray: God, you have promised to always be with me. I don’t have to be afraid of lions, bullies, taking tests, or the dark. And even if we’re afraid, we know you will give us the courage to handle whatever we might be facing. Just like you were with Daniel and Paul, you’re with me. I can be brave because you’re standing beside me. Amen.

 

DISCUSS:

  • Why was Daniel thrown into the lion’s den?

  • What do you think made Daniel brave when he faced the lions?

  • What did Darius decide to do after Daniel came out of the den without a scratch?

  • Read 2 Timothy 4:17b–18. How is Paul’s suffering similar to Daniel’s situation with the lions?

  • When are some times you might need to overcome a fear?

  • What’s one way you can be brave because you know that God is with you?

  • What kinds of words would help someone who is afraid not be afraid anymore?

10.14 Family Experience Resources

Hear Me Roar - Week 3

There’s a reason lions are symbols of courage — even their roars (which can be heard up to five miles away) tell us how strong they are! And because of God’s promises, we can be as strong and bold as lions, too. In this five-week series, our kids will learn important truths from the life of Daniel they’ll want to shout (or roar!), like how we don’t have to give up and don’t have to feel alone. Instead, we can keep learning and not be afraid, even when we don’t know the future. Why? Because God is with us!

BIG IDEA: I can keep learning — God is with me!
READ: The Writing on the Wall: Daniel 5; 2 Timothy 3:14-17

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” Nahum 1:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God loves us and protects us." Nahum 1:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: 10,000 Armies and God is With Me

 

DISCIPLE:

Give you family blocks, legos, or play animals to build a tiny zoo while you read (or tell in your own words) Daniel 5. 

What are some things you have been learning in your life lately? How do you think God might use that in your life?

Pray: God, you are the Creator of the world, and you are always at work. I don’t want to stay in my comfort zone when it comes to growing with you. I want to keep learning instead of thinking I already know everything. Thank you for being the most kind and patient teacher and for reminding me I don’t have to be perfect. Amen.

 

DISCUSS:

  • What happened to King Nebuchadnezzar?

  • What did the handwriting on the wall say?

  • What happened to King Belshazzar after he threw the big party?

  • Read 2 Timothy 3:14–17. What are the things that the Bible does to help us learn?

  • Who is the best teacher or coach you’ve ever had and why?

  • What is God teaching you about right now?

  • What are some things you can do to learn more about God this week?

10.7 Family Experience Resources

Hear Me Roar - Week 2

There’s a reason lions are symbols of courage — even their roars (which can be heard up to five miles away) tell us how strong they are! And because of God’s promises, we can be as strong and bold as lions, too. In this five-week series, our kids will learn important truths from the life of Daniel they’ll want to shout (or roar!), like how we don’t have to give up and don’t have to feel alone. Instead, we can keep learning and not be afraid, even when we don’t know the future. Why? Because God is with us!

BIG IDEA: I’m not alone — God is with me!
READ: The Fiery Furnace: Daniel 3; 2 Timothy 2:8-15

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” Nahum 1:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God loves us and protects us." Nahum 1:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: 10,000 Armies and God is With Me

 

DISCIPLE:

No one likes to feel alone. God often reminds us we aren’t alone by giving us friends and family members to support and encourage us.

Read Daniel 3 together- We are reminded that we aren’t alone — God is with us. So, let’s take a few minutes and remind someone else they aren’t alone.

Who is a friend or family member who may need some encouragement this week? Write them a postcard and remind them they aren’t alone. Be sure to mail the postcard this week! God is with them and so are you.

 

Pray: God, thank you that I’m not alone. Even when I feel like there’s no one to help me, I trust you are there. Thank you for my friends and family who remind me of your love. Help me be there to support and help others in the way you’ve helped me. Thank you for making impossible things possible. Amen.

 

DISCUSS:

  • Why did Shadrach, Meschach, and Abednego not bow down to the gold statue?

  • How do you think they felt when they were told they would be thrown into the fiery furnace?

  • What do you think helped Shadrach, Meschach, and Abednego to be brave when they faced the flames?

  • Read 2 Timothy 2:8–10. What do you think Paul meant when he said that “God’s word is not chained (or bound)”?

  • When was a time you felt alone?

  • How did that make you feel? What did you do about it?

  • When was a time you felt God was with you?

9.30 Family Experience Resources

Hear Me Roar - Week 1

There’s a reason lions are symbols of courage — even their roars (which can be heard up to five miles away) tell us how strong they are! And because of God’s promises, we can be as strong and bold as lions, too. In this five-week series, our kids will learn important truths from the life of Daniel they’ll want to shout (or roar!), like how we don’t have to give up and don’t have to feel alone. Instead, we can keep learning and not be afraid, even when we don’t know the future. Why? Because God is with us!

BIG IDEA: I won’t give up — God is with me!
READ: Babylonian Captivity: Daniel 1; Lamentations 3:19-26

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him.” Nahum 1:7 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God loves us and protects us." Nahum 1:7

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: 10,000 Armies and God is With Me

 

DISCIPLE:

Ask: Have you ever faced something so difficult that you decided to give up?

Sometimes, we want to give up when things are too hard! Sometimes, we may even want to give up on following God when things are difficult. I bet Daniel and his friends felt that way too when they found themselves far away from home, in Babylon, being forced to work for King Nebuchadnezzar! But they didn’t give up because they knew God was with them.

Who are the people in your life who help you feel brave and give you the courage to keep going? God doesn’t often hold up a megaphone and give us instructions or encouragement that we can hear. But, God does speak to us through other people, through the Bible, and by providing us wisdom as we make important decisions. God is with us and gives us the courage to persevere, even when we feel discouraged.

How do you know that God is with you?

INSTRUCTIONS: Show the video of the song, “Try Everything,” from Zootopia. 

This theme song from the movie “Zootopia” is called “Try Everything.” Do you think that it means we should literally try everything? Probably not, right? We could get ourselves into a lot of trouble or danger if we did that! What this song tells us is what we’ve learned all along today — to not give up and to give everything we do our best shot.

Just like the song says, we can say it, too: “I won’t give up, no I won’t give in, ‘til I reach the end . . . and then I’ll start again.”

What’s something you won’t give up on because God is with you?

Pray: God, thank you that you are with me. Even when things are difficult, you encourage me and remind me that I can do it! Even when it seems like a door is locked in my life, you help me open it or find a new way out. This gives me strength, courage, and hope! Your compassion never fails. I won’t give up, because you are with me! Amen.

 

DISCUSS:

  • How did Daniel and his friends end up in Babylon?

  • What did the four of them do differently from others who were brought to Babylon?

  • What happened because of this choice they made?

  • Read Lamentations 3:21–22. What does the writer of this Scripture say is our reason for hope?

  • What are some things you put your hope in? Winning? Attention? Friendships?

  • Was there a time you made a different choice than those around you because it was the right one? Was it difficult?

  • What helped you to not give up?

9.23 Family Experience Resources

Animated - Week 4

If you’ve ever gotten a little emotional during your favorite Disney or Pixar movie, you know animation is a powerful tool to not only tell big stories, but to make us feel big feelings, too! In this four-week series, our families will look at some stories of the Old Testament prophets as we explore some of those feelings. These stories will remind our kids that God cares about our big feelings. With God, we can all feel secure, comforted, valued, and loved, even when our emotions tell us otherwise.

BIG IDEA: God gives me comfort when I feel sad.
READ: Elijah Flees to Horeb: 1 Kings 19:1-13; Jeremiah 8:18-9:1

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him." Romans 15:13a (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God gives us joy and peace." Romans 15:13a

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Thank God and 10,000 Armies

 

DISCIPLE:

Start talking to your kids in a whisper. They will most likely have to lean in to hear you. When

they start to lean in, ask them why they did that.

Explain, when we’re sad, it’s easy for us to believe God is far away. But today’s Bible story and memory verse tell us to believe something different — that God is just as close to us in our sadness as ever.

In fact, it’s in our sadness that God longs for us to lean in closely so we can hear — even if God speaks in a whisper. When you feel sad, what kind of things do you think God wants to say to you? 

I don’t know about you, but knowing God gives me comfort when I feel sad helps me feel better. Some of the most comforting words of my life haven’t come in a shout, they’ve come in a soft and quiet voice. Isn’t it cool that our God speaks to us like that in our sadness?

Pray: God, thank you for your comfort. Thank you for being there both on the best days and the worst days. In my deepest valleys, I will trust in you. Quiet my heart when it aches so I can hear your comforting voice. Amen.

 

DISCUSS:

  • Why was Elijah running for his life?

  • Why was Elijah so sad?

  • How did God appear to Elijah on the mountain?

  • Read Jeremiah 8:18–9:1. What made Jeremiah so sad?

  • What will you do the next time you feel sad?

  • How does it make you feel to have a God who comforts you?

  • How can you imitate God when someone you know is sad?

9.16 Family Experience Resources

Animated - Week 3

If you’ve ever gotten a little emotional during your favorite Disney or Pixar movie, you know animation is a powerful tool to not only tell big stories, but to make us feel big feelings, too! In this four-week series, our families will look at some stories of the Old Testament prophets as we explore some of those feelings. These stories will remind our kids that God cares about our big feelings. With God, we can all feel secure, comforted, valued, and loved, even when our emotions tell us otherwise.

BIG IDEA: God gives me comfort when I feel sad.
READ: Elijah Flees to Horeb: 1 Kings 19:1-13; Jeremiah 8:18-9:1

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him." Romans 15:13a (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God gives us joy and peace." Romans 15:13a

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Thank God and 10,000 Armies

 

DISCIPLE:

Start talking to your kids in a whisper. They will most likely have to lean in to hear you. When

they start to lean in, ask them why they did that.

Explain, when we’re sad, it’s easy for us to believe God is far away. But today’s Bible story and memory verse tell us to believe something different — that God is just as close to us in our sadness as ever.

In fact, it’s in our sadness that God longs for us to lean in closely so we can hear — even if God speaks in a whisper. When you feel sad, what kind of things do you think God wants to say to you? 

I don’t know about you, but knowing God gives me comfort when I feel sad helps me feel better. Some of the most comforting words of my life haven’t come in a shout, they’ve come in a soft and quiet voice. Isn’t it cool that our God speaks to us like that in our sadness?

Pray: God, thank you for your comfort. Thank you for being there both on the best days and the worst days. In my deepest valleys, I will trust in you. Quiet my heart when it aches so I can hear your comforting voice. Amen.

 

DISCUSS:

  • Why was Elijah running for his life?

  • Why was Elijah so sad?

  • How did God appear to Elijah on the mountain?

  • Read Jeremiah 8:18–9:1. What made Jeremiah so sad?

  • What will you do the next time you feel sad?

  • How does it make you feel to have a God who comforts you?

  • How can you imitate God when someone you know is sad?

9.9 Family Experience Resources

Animated - Week 2

If you’ve ever gotten a little emotional during your favorite Disney or Pixar movie, you know animation is a powerful tool to not only tell big stories, but to make us feel big feelings, too! In this four-week series, our families will look at some stories of the Old Testament prophets as we explore some of those feelings. These stories will remind our kids that God cares about our big feelings. With God, we can all feel secure, comforted, valued, and loved, even when our emotions tell us otherwise.

BIG IDEA: God loves me even when I feel ashamed.
READ: Jonah Swallowed by a Fish: Jonah 1:17-2:10; I Timothy 1:12-17

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him." Romans 15:13a (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God gives us joy and peace." Romans 15:13a

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: Thank God and 10,000 Armies

 

DISCIPLE:

Read 1 Timothy 1:12–17.

Do any words or phrases stick out to you?

Paul, who wrote this, called himself the “worst of sinners,” which seems like a statement full of shame. But then, in the very next verse, Paul said that it was for that very reason he was shown mercy.

Paul had good reasons to feel ashamed. Before he knew Jesus, Paul would hunt down and

capture people who believed in Jesus. But after he came to know God himself, Paul turned his life around and started doing the very thing he used to arrest people for.

Paul understood that feeling shame about his mistakes — which were huge, by the way — would be missing the point. The point is God still loved him and sent Jesus for him and for everyone.

God forgave the things Paul did in the past and gave him the chance to do things for God. That’s mercy!

What are some things we can do when we feel shame to help us feel unashamed? Who is someone you can think of you can go to when you feel shame?

Remember, you can always go to God!

 

Pray: God, we thank you for removing our shame. Please help us remember we’re forgiven and that you love us even when we feel ashamed. Help us go, without shame, and tell others about how awesome you are. Amen
 

DISCUSS:

  • What mistake did Jonah make?

  • What did Jonah do when he was inside the big fish?

  • What did he do after the fish spit him out on the beach?

  • Read 1 Timothy 1:12–17. What did the writer say about himself, and what did the writer say is the reason he was shown mercy?

  • What’s something that might make you feel ashamed? You don’t have to share this aloud if you don’t want to.

  • You know how when you have a big burp, it clears out space for more food? Imagine releasing shame is like a big burp in your soul. What might you be able to put there instead?

  • What can you tell someone who’s feeling ashamed because of who they are or something they did?

9.2 Family Experience Resources

Animated - Week 1

If you’ve ever gotten a little emotional during your favorite Disney or Pixar movie, you know animation is a powerful tool to not only tell big stories, but to make us feel big feelings, too! In this four-week series, our families will look at some stories of the Old Testament prophets as we explore some of those feelings. These stories will remind our kids that God cares about our big feelings. With God, we can all feel secure, comforted, valued, and loved, even when our emotions tell us otherwise.

BIG IDEA: Because of God, I can feel secure.
READ: Jeremiah at the Potter’s House: Jeremiah 18:1-11; Psalm 139:1-14

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him." Romans 15:13a (NIV)

Toddler Twist: "God gives us joy and peace." Romans 15:13a

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Thank God and 10,000 Armies

 

DISCIPLE:

Just like a potter’s hands are on every part of their creation, God knows every part of our lives. Even when things feel crazy, God is always molding and shaping us.

Before you were born, you didn’t even have the ability to move or make sense of what was happening around you. Even then, God was forming you.

How do you feel knowing God was thinking about you before you could even think?

 

Pray: Dear God, we thank you for always caring about us and being with us. Thank you for reminding us through your prophet Jeremiah that we’re always in your hands. Remind us that you’re forming us all the time, in really hard times and in really good times. Help us to remember that no matter what comes in life, we can feel secure in you. Amen.
 

DISCUSS:

  • Why was Jeremiah called the “weeping prophet?”

  • Where did God tell Jeremiah to go?

  • What did God want Jeremiah to remember?

  • Read Psalm 139:7–12. The writer of Psalm 139 used creative ways, like word pictures, to describe God’s care. Can you remember one? Which stuck out to you most and why?

  • When might be a time you don’t feel secure?

  • How might today’s Bible story about the life of Jeremiah change the way you look at sad situations in your life?

  • Who are some people God put in your life to help you feel secure? How do they do that?

8.26 Family Experience Resources

WonderFULL- Week 4

From the Northern Lights to the Great Barrier Reef, our world is full of so many incredible wonders! In this four-week series, our families will explore the natural wonders of the world while learning from the book of Psalms about how all of God’s creation is evidence of how wonderful our Creator is! Each week, we’ll invite kids to worship because of all the “wonder-full” things God has done by putting their hope in God, asking for God’s help, remembering what God has done, and living for God!

BIG IDEA: We can worship by living for God.
READ: Way to Live: Psalm 112; Hebrews 13:1-3

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made, your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"God made me amazing and wonderful!" Psalm 139:14

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Anything  Is Possible and I Cast All My Cares

COLORING: Psalm 139:14

DISCIPLE:

Read Hebrews 13 together. The passage we just read has this word, “hospitality.” What that means? Showing hospitality or being hospitable means being friendly and generous toward others and making them feel welcome. This relates to our Big Idea because a big part of living for God means we should live with love and show kindness to those around us.

Jesus was an expert at showing hospitality. Jesus welcomed everyone to the table — literally — even though most people excluded them. Jesus let everyone know they were loved and showed that by spending time with them.
Let’s explore this! I’m going to describe a scenario and tell me the best way to respond. 

  • Your friend dropped all of their candy out of their bag. You still have your whole bag of candy in your hand. What do you do? 

  • You see someone crying alone in the bathroom. When you ask why they’re crying, they say, “I don’t think I did so well on that test we just took in math class.” What do you do? 
    You are walking down the street and someone in front of you accidentally dropped their wallet on the ground and didn’t know it. What do you do? 

  • You notice a new kid your age walk into church looking sort of afraid. What do you do?

  • You notice everyone at the lunch table is making fun of another kid who walked by because they think their clothes look funny. What do you do? 

  • At school, you notice that when your class ran outside for recess, only one classmate stayed behind to help your teacher push in all the chairs. What do you? 

  • In each of these scenarios, there were lots of different ways you could have reacted to what happened. But the best way is to choose the way of love and hospitality, just like we just read in Hebrews 13. 
    Let’s practice living for God so it becomes more natural — just like the creatures swimming so effortlessly in the sea, we can live for God naturally by following Jesus.

Pray: Dear God, we want to worship you with our whole lives! Please help us to see ways to live your love out loud for all to see. Thank you for sending your son, Jesus, to show us what it looks like to fully love others. Let our lives of love be a wonder for all to see! Help us to love you and those around us every day. Amen.

DISCUSS:

  • Read Psalm 112:1. What do you think it means to “fear” God? Does it mean to be scared of God?

  • Read Psalm 112:4. What are some of the good things that Psalm 112 says will come to people who obey God?

  • What are some examples of living for God that we see in this Psalm?

  • Read Hebrews 13:2. How would you describe hospitality? What’s an example of showing someone hospitality?

  • Why can it sometimes be challenging for us to be kind and generous toward others?

  • Is it possible to worship God without living for God? How come?

  • What’s one way you can live for God this week?

8.19 Family Experience Resources

WonderFULL- Week 3

From the Northern Lights to the Great Barrier Reef, our world is full of so many incredible wonders! In this four-week series, our families will explore the natural wonders of the world while learning from the book of Psalms about how all of God’s creation is evidence of how wonderful our Creator is! Each week, we’ll invite kids to worship because of all the “wonder-full” things God has done by putting their hope in God, asking for God’s help, remembering what God has done, and living for God!

BIG IDEA: We can worship by remembering what God has done.
READ: Remember It: Psalm 103:1-8; Hebrews 12:28-29

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made, your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"God made me amazing and wonderful!" Psalm 139:14

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Anything  Is Possible and I Cast All My Cares

COLORING: Psalm 139:14

DISCIPLE:

Share a story about something God has done in your life that you've always remember. Have each family member share their experience if they'd like.

There are some things in life that are hard to forget. 
Remembering God’s faithfulness and love for makes our hearts sing! God loves me and God loves you so much!  Sometimes, when we get busy or distracted, we can forget what God has done. Or sometimes, we take the credit for things God has done in our lives. When we forget about the ways God has been there for us in the past or we try to do things on our own, we can get sad or start to worry about the future. 
That’s why taking time to worship God every day helps us remember all those good things!

We can worship by remembering what God has done.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for all of the ways you’ve been there for us in the past. We remember your love and kindness, and we are filled with thanks! We remember the wondrous ways you have come through for us and we know you will always be for us. Help us to respond with a heart full of praise for who you are. Amen

. Amen
DISCUSS:

  • Read Psalm 103:2. What are some of the things God has done for us?

  • Read Psalm 103:8. Who can demonstrate the sign language memory verse? Who remembers the sign for “wonderful?”

  • Why do you think it’s important to remember what God has done in the past?

  • Read Hebrews 12:28—29. What do you think it means to worship God with reverence and awe? How can you practice worshiping God in wonder this week?

  • Name one historical or personal event you remember very well. Why is that important?

  • How does worshiping God help us remember the things God has done?

  • What is one thing you can do to make sure you don’t forget the things God has done for you?

8.12 Family Experience Resources

WonderFULL- Week 2

From the Northern Lights to the Great Barrier Reef, our world is full of so many incredible wonders! In this four-week series, our families will explore the natural wonders of the world while learning from the book of Psalms about how all of God’s creation is evidence of how wonderful our Creator is! Each week, we’ll invite kids to worship because of all the “wonder-full” things God has done by putting their hope in God, asking for God’s help, remembering what God has done, and living for God!

BIG IDEA: We can worship by asking for God’s help.
READ: Ask for Help: Psalm 80:8-19; Hebrews 12:1-2

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made, your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"God made me amazing and wonderful!" Psalm 139:14

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Anything  Is Possible and I Cast All My Cares

COLORING: Psalm 139:14

DISCIPLE:

Get a tangles rope together before you read Hebrews 12:1–2 to your family. While you’re reading the passage, have one family member try to untangle a very tangled rope. 
They won’t be able to untangle the rope on your own. Prompt them to ask another family member for help to untangle it. 
Climbing a mountain like Everest requires all sorts of supplies. Things like the right hiking boots, the right snacks, and don’t forget about the rope! 

It’s easy to get tangled up in worry or in the things we know we shouldn’t be doing, which is sin. Sin is the  bad stuff we do that separates us from God.
But this passage reminds us to keep our eyes on Jesus. Even in the hardest, darkest moments of life, Jesus  kept going. Jesus knew the promise of joy that was coming, so Jesus didn’t get tangled up in worry. We have that same promise because of Jesus and what Jesus did for us.
[Use this moment to briefly describe the sacrifice Jesus made for our sins.]
We don’t have to stay tangled in sin and bad choices. All we have to do is ask God for help and God will help us!
Even during our darkest moments, we can remember that God will help us untangle whatever’s holding us down. We can worship by asking for God’s help.

Pray: Dear God, we will face challenges in life that feel too big for us to take on. Remind us that we don’t have to do it alone. Thank you for being our help. Help us to keep our eyes focused on Jesus, no matter what challenges come our way. When we consider the huge and magnificent wonders you have created, we know nothing is too hard for you. Amen.


DISCUSS:

  • Read Psalm 80. Where did Asaph go to get help?

  • The author of this Psalm asks for help from God more than once. Do you think it’s okay to seek help more than one time — even if it’s for the same problem?

  • What are some things Asaph asked God to help with?

  • Read Hebrews 12:1. How does sin tangle us up or slow us down from living the life God has given us?

  • Do you think it’s hard or easy to ask for help? Why?

  • Does asking for help make you weak or strong?

  • When someone asks you for help, are you happy to help them or do you withhold help? Or do you sometimes do both? Why?

8.5 Family Experience Resources

WonderFULL- Week 1

From the Northern Lights to the Great Barrier Reef, our world is full of so many incredible wonders! In this four-week series, our families will explore the natural wonders of the world while learning from the book of Psalms about how all of God’s creation is evidence of how wonderful our Creator is! Each week, we’ll invite kids to worship because of all the “wonder-full” things God has done by putting their hope in God, asking for God’s help, remembering what God has done, and living for God!

BIG IDEA: We can worship by putting our hope in God.
READ: Wait in Hope: Psalm 33:12-22; Hebrews 11:1-3

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made, your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:14 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"God made me amazing and wonderful!" Psalm 139:14

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: Anything  Is Possible and I Cast All My Cares

COLORING: Psalm 139:14

DISCIPLE:

(show your family a picture of the northern lights from an online search) 

The Northern Lights are always there, even though we can’t always see them. I like knowing God is always  with me. It’s kind of like knowing that someone who loves us very much will be picking us up after school. 
You can’t see them during the day, but they show up when you need them.
God is kind of like this, but even better because God is always available, no matter what time it is or where we are. Even though we can’t see God all of the time, God is always there. 

Hope is knowing for sure that God’s promises are true. They are real and they work!
Do you notice God helping you throughout the day in big and small ways? Me, too!
When we really start to notice how much God is with us and how far God’s love reaches, it’s hard not to feel  grateful. It’s easy to feel amazed at how wonderful God is — and when that happens, worship happens! 
We can worship by putting our hope in God

 

Pray: 
Dear God, even though we can’t see you and may not always know what you have planned for us, we know you are good and you love us — nothing changes that. We can see the amazing wonders you have created and they remind us of your great love for us! Teach us to worship you in every season so our hope in you may grow. Amen.

. Amen
DISCUSS:

  • Read Psalm 33:18. Where are God’s eyes?

  • Read Psalm 33:20. What does it mean to “wait in hope for the Lord?”

  • Why do you think we need both a “help” and a “shield?”

  • Read Hebrews 11:1–3. Can you name other things you trust even though you can’t see them?

  • Think about a time you’ve sat outside with your family or a friend and looked around at all the things God has made — including you! How might seeing all this fill you with hope?

  • When is a time you might find it difficult to worship? What is a way you can worship even then?

  • How can you worship God every day this week?

7.29 Family Experience Resources

Staycation - Week 5

Grab some blankets and flashlights! We're going to build a fort or jump on the couch because the floor is lava! That’s right — it's time for a family staycation! In this five-week series about Abraham and his family (and our families, too!), our families will learn that God blesses us so we can bless others and God always shows us compassion. That’s why we can trust God (even when it's hard to trust each other), always belong in God’s family, and can make peace with others — especially the people who live with us!

BIG IDEA: We can make peace with others.

READ:  Jacob and Esau Meet Again: Genesis 32:6-21, 33:1-11; Romans 8:26-39

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"Let us do good to everyone, and especially to the who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"Do good to everyone!" Galatians 6:10

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: The Blessing and Give a Little Kindness

COLORING: Galatians 6:10

DISCIPLE:

Read Romans 8:26-39.
It may seem unnatural to live peacefully with others all of this time, but this passage reminds us that all things work together for our good. 
It may not be the “good” that we imagined — but it’s even better because it’s God’s good plan for us. We saw this in the story about Jacob and Esau. Things worked out for their good. 
In verse 29, we are told that we are becoming like God’s son, Jesus. Even though Jesus was mistreated, mocked, and eventually killed, he never stopped being a person of peace. 
As we continue to trust God, God will make us more like Jesus. Even in the hardest of times, we can have peace and we can make peace with others

Pray:  Dear God, we know it’s not always easy to get along with others, but you show us that it’s not impossible to make peace. Help us to be the first to reach out and say sorry and give us open hearts to accept other people’s apologies. Thank you for being the true giver of peace. Amen.
DISCUSS:

  • What did Jacob bring Esau so that he would forgive him?

  • What did the messengers tell Jacob?

  • What did Jacob do when he finally saw his brother again?

  • Read Romans 8:28. Why is making peace with others also for our good?

  • What are some ways you can show peace with others?

  • When is it easy to forgive? When is it difficult? How can we still have peace even when it's difficult?

  • Who is a peaceful person in your life? What is better about your life because of that person?

7.22 Family Experience Resources

Staycation - Week 4

Grab some blankets and flashlights! We're going to build a fort or jump on the couch because the floor is lava! That’s right — it's time for a family staycation! In this five-week series about Abraham and his family (and our families, too!), our families will learn that God blesses us so we can bless others and God always shows us compassion. That’s why we can trust God (even when it's hard to trust each other), always belong in God’s family, and can make peace with others — especially the people who live with us!

BIG IDEA: We always belong in God’s family.

READ:  Jacob’s Dream: Genesis 28:10-19a; Psalm 139:1-12

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"Let us do good to everyone, and especially to the who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"Do good to everyone!" Galatians 6:10

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: The Blessing and Give a Little Kindness

COLORING: Galatians 6:10

DISCIPLE:

Read Psalm 139:1-12.
It means a lot to us when our friends and family know things about us. When people see and know us, it makes us feel loved. This passage is a reminder that God loves and cherishes us. God knows every detail about us — including our most shining moments and the moments we may not be so proud of. But God doesn’t want us to hide away. In fact, there’s no way we can. God gave us Jesus so that we can always be connected to God and know that we belong no matter what we’ve done. We always belong in God’s family.

Pray:  Dear God, thank you for giving us our families and people who love us and may not even be related to us. Sometimes, there may be days when we feel like we don’t belong, but you remind us that we always belong in God’s family. Thank you for loving us and making us feel at home. Amen.


DISCUSS:

  • What did Jacob see in his dream?

  • What promise did God make to Jacob?

  • Why did Jacob build a pillar out of stone?

  • Read Psalm 139:1-3. Think of a time you felt all alone. Did it help (or would it have helped) to know that God was with you? Why or why not?

  • Have you ever felt like an outsider in a group of people? How did that make you feel?

  • What are some things people do to help you feel like you belong?

  • Every family member has a job to do around the house. What is something you can do as a member of God's family?

7.15 Family Experience Resources

Staycation - Week 3

Grab some blankets and flashlights! We're going to build a fort or jump on the couch because the floor is lava! That’s right — it's time for a family staycation! In this five-week series about Abraham and his family (and our families, too!), our families will learn that God blesses us so we can bless others and God always shows us compassion. That’s why we can trust God (even when it's hard to trust each other), always belong in God’s family, and can make peace with others — especially the people who live with us!

BIG IDEA: We can trust God when it's hard to trust each other.

READ:   Jacob and Esau: Genesis 25:19-34; Romans 8:1-11

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"Let us do good to everyone, and especially to the who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"Do good to everyone!" Galatians 6:10

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: The Blessing and Give a Little Kindness

COLORING: Galatians 6:10

DISCIPLE:

Read Romans 8:1-11.
Today we heard about two brothers who were at odds with each other. Jacob stole Esau’s birthright because he thought his life and future were more important than Esau’s.
This passage in Romans tells us that Jesus came to set us free from the selfishness in the world. Selfishness drives us to try to fight to protect ourselves, but when we trust in Jesus, we realize that it is God who makes our future hopeful and secure. 
Even when there is conflict and tension around us, we can trust God when it’s hard to trust each other.

Pray: Dear God, even when we mess up or when other people break our trust, thank you for sticking with us. Thank you that we can trust you when it’s hard to trust each other. Thank you for your steady love toward us on the  good days and the hard days. We can count on you. Amen


DISCUSS:

  • What were the names of Isaac's children?

  • How were Isaac's children different from each other?

  • How did one of the brothers end up losing his birthright? 

  • Read Romans 8:5. What do you think it means to have your mind set on the flesh or the Spirit?

  • Have you ever let down someone in your family? What did you do or what could you have done to make it right? 

  • What good or important gifts have we been given, like Esau's birthright, that we take for granted?

  • What do you think is needed for two people to trust each other? How do we know we can trust God?

7.8 Family Experience Resources

Staycation - Week 2

Grab some blankets and flashlights! We're going to build a fort or jump on the couch because the floor is lava! That’s right — it's time for a family staycation! In this five-week series about Abraham and his family (and our families, too!), our families will learn that God blesses us so we can bless others and God always shows us compassion. That’s why we can trust God (even when it's hard to trust each other), always belong in God’s family, and can make peace with others — especially the people who live with us!

BIG IDEA: God always shows us compassion.

READ:  Abraham and Isaac: Genesis 21:1-7, 22:1-14; Psalm 145:8-14

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"Let us do good to everyone, and especially to the who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"Do good to everyone!" Galatians 6:10

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: The Blessing and Give a Little Kindness

COLORING: Galatians 6:10

DISCIPLE:

Read Psalm 145:8-14.
This passage of scripture reminds us that God is full of compassion — and not just compassion for us, but  compassion for all.
God showed love and compassion for everyone by sending Jesus, God’s son, to earth. Jesus showed us the perfect picture of compassion as he cared for everyone around him, even those who were brushed aside by others. 
Jesus had such great compassion that he died on the cross so that we could be free from sin, and part of the family of God forever.er. The invitation to be part of the family of God is for everyone.

Pray: Dear God, thank you for always showing us compassion. Even when we don’t understand what is happening, we can trust you to be kind and loving toward us. Help us to share your kindness and compassion with those around us. We love you. Amen


DISCUSS:

  • What did God promise to Sarah and Abraham?

  • What test did God give Abraham? 

  • What did God provide for Abraham to give to God?

  • Read Psalm 145:8-9. What are some words in these verses that describe God's compassion for us?

  • How would you describe compassion to someone?

  • Can you remember a time when someone showed you compassion?

  • What is one way you can show compassion to someone else this week?

7.1 Family Experience Resources

Staycation - Week 1

Grab some blankets and flashlights! We're going to build a fort or jump on the couch because the floor is lava! That’s right — it's time for a family staycation! In this five-week series about Abraham and his family (and our families, too!), our families will learn that God blesses us so we can bless others and God always shows us compassion. That’s why we can trust God (even when it's hard to trust each other), always belong in God’s family, and can make peace with others — especially the people who live with us!

BIG IDEA: God blesses us so we can bless others.

READ:  The Call of Abram: Genesis 12:1-5, 13:1-18; Psalm 89:1-4

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"Let us do good to everyone, and especially to the who are of the household of faith." Galatians 6:10 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"Do good to everyone!" Galatians 6:10

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

SONG: The Blessing and Give a Little Kindness

COLORING: Galatians 6:10

DISCIPLE:

Read Psalm 89:1-4. 

Wow! Here we read more about God’s amazing blessings! We heard about God’s faithfulness, God’s love that  stands firm forever, and God’s promise to a kingdom — a perfect home —that will last for all generations!!
The promise of a forever home was made possible through Jesus, God’s son. When we decide to have a  forever friendship with Jesus, we become a part of the family of God.
Although homes may not always be perfect here, we have the promise of a kingdom coming—a forever  home—that will make all the wrong things right. Knowing that promise is coming, gives us hope, and changes  the way we live now. 
The thing I love most about this Psalm is that the author says that he will share the good news of these  blessings! He is going to tell others about the blessings! That’s what we get to do too! God blesses us so we can bless others.

 

Pray: Dear God, thank you for blessing us. You not only give us good things, but you invite us to bless others with what you’ve given to us. Let us always remember that you have blessed us so that we can bless others. This is the best way to live. Amen.


DISCUSS:

  • Where did God tell Abram to go?

  • Who did Abram take with him?

  • What was God's promise to Abram?

  • Read Psalm 89:1. What is the writer of this Psalm going to do to bless others?

  • What do you think it means to bless someone?

  • Name some ways you have blessed others.

  • How has someone blessed you?

6.24 Family Experience Resources

Make it or break it - Week 4

Whether it’s with LEGO bricks, Minecraft, or Roblox, our kids (and us!) love to make things — and sometimes break them. In this four-week series from the very beginning of the Bible, we’ll compare God’s ability to make good things with our tendency to break them. Through the stories of creation, the fall, Cain and Abel, and the Tower of Babel, we’ll see that God makes good things, unbreaks what’s been broken, and made us different on purpose, so we should honor God with the things we make.

BIG IDEA: We can honor God with the things we make.

READ: The Tower of Babel: Genesis 11:1-9; Matthew 10:32-33

 

MEMORY VERSE

Elementary: 

"For every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything." Hebrews 3:4 (NIV)

Toddler Twist: 

"God made everything!" Hebrews 3:4

 

WATCH:

Preschool- teaching video

Elementary- teaching video

 

SONG: When I Look and All Good

COLORING: Hebrews 3:4

 

DISCIPLE:

Show your family an item someone made for you, such as a sweater, a quilt, a picture of a room someone decorated for you, or show an item you made for someone else. Share about the person, the item, and what it meant to receive or give it as it relates to God being honored. Invite your kiddos to share their experience. Making something with love takes time and intention, which means we do it with purpose . . . not just putting something together meaninglessly.

We can honor God with the things we make. When we make things with love, God's love is reflected in that. Any time that God is on display, it honors God!
Pray: Dear God, thank you for giving us the ability to make things that honor you. Help us find ways to show everyone how good you are to us through everything we make, everything we say, and everything we do. Amen.


DISCUSS:

  • What did the people decide to build? 

  • Why did they want to build this? 

  • What did God do to stop them? Why did God do this? 

  • Read Matthew 10:32. Can you think of a way you can acknowledge God in front of others?

  • What do you think it means to honor God?

  • Why do you think it's important to honor God?

  • What is one way you can honor God with the things you make, say, or do this week?