Hide God’s Word
Items Needed:
- Bible
- Paper
- Writing utensil
- Plastic eggs
Write verses and/or Scripture references on small pieces of paper and place one in each plastic egg. Hide the eggs for your children to hunt.
Look up or read the verses in the eggs after the hunt is completed. Discuss how God’s Word is a gift to us when we are suffering. If we memorize God’s Word, or hide it in our hearts, we can remember the promises of God and be comforted in times of suffering.
Pray together, thanking God for His Word and asking Him to help each of you hide His words in your hearts.
Under Pressure
Items Needed:
- Bowls
- Napkins
- Popcorn
- Microwave or popcorn popper
Plan a family night and enjoy some popcorn together. As the popcorn pops in the microwave, discuss the process with your children.
Explain that each kernel has a hard covering that keeps the steam from escaping. As the pressure builds up inside the kernel, it eventually bursts the hard covering with a popping sound allowing the white, fluffy inside of the kernel to puff out. Would we have popcorn if we didn’t add the heat?
We can learn a little about life from popcorn. Life is often hard, and we face a variety of problems. Even though suffering is difficult, good things can come as a result. Peter reminded us to rejoice in suffering, avoid living in fear and shame, and NOT to give up. We can follow Jesus’ example. He suffered more than anyone and continued to trust and obey His Father. Suffering strengthens our faith and often leads us to holy living.
How do you respond to suffering?
Imitate This!
Items Needed: Legos
Create something with the Legos before beginning the activity with your children. Ask them to build what you built. Allow plenty of time for them to work, and while they are working, talk to them about imitation.
Just as I gave you a pattern to imitate, Jesus is our example to imitate. Jesus suffered greatly while He was on earth, and the Bible tells us we will suffer too (John 16:33). We can imitate Christ’s behavior when we face hard times. He continued to trust and obey His Father, and He did NOT give up.
If time allows, let your child build something for you to re-create.