FAVOR
Part 9 of 10 in Promises of God Series
1 John 5:14-15
“This is the confidence we have when approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him.”
“Mom, may I get the new iPod for my birthday?” nine year old Miguel asked.
“We’ll see, honey” Miguel’s mom answered. “Things are pretty tight right now. I promise that we’ll celebrate your birthday with as many good things that we can afford.”
Money is the only limitation earthly parents have in showering their children with gifts. Responsible parents provide shelter, food, and clothing first. “Extras” are luxuries, treats that delight. Denying children anything because there’s not enough money, hurts parents deeply.
God doesn’t have money limitations. Matthew 7:8 says that all we have to do is ask! (The opening Scripture agrees). Luke 11:11 says, “Which one of you fathers, if your son asks for a fish, will give him a snake instead? Or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give you the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”
God specializes in favors. “Favor” is kindness. Not all favors are returned kindness for something received. Sometimes, favors are unearned.
The word, favor, is found several places in the Bible:
Exodus 33:12 says, “Moses said to the Lord, ‘You have been telling me, ‘Lead these people,’ but You have not let me know whom You will send with me. You have said, ‘I know you by name and you have found favor with me.’” Moses recognized God’s favor towards him.
Leviticus 26:9 again shows God’s favor toward Moses, and the Israelites: “I will look on you with favor and make you fruitful and increase your numbers, and I will keep My covenant with you.” God reveals blessings for Israel in verses 10-12: He would increase their harvest, dwell with, and walk among them.
Psalm 5:12 says, “For surely, O Lord, You bless the righteous, You surround them with Your favor as with a shield.” God’s favor surrounds righteous people (you and me). 2 Corinthians 5:21: “God made Him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.”
Take Home Nugget
Jesus learned about the Fathers favor, too. Luke 2:52 confirms, “And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”
The best of all God’s favor
Comes to those who long to see His face.
His presence is most what they savor,
Resting solely in His grace.
JD Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Favor
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Friday, January 25, 2013
Scaredy Cat Dare
SCAREDY CAT DARE
Part 8 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could see into the future to know beforehand that everything will turn out alright? Don’t feel badly if you ever put off doing something for awhile, because you didn’t have that assurance. We are all kids, and we’re still learning to trust God. These “works in progress” (you and me) don’t appreciate having to wait for God’s answer to prayers before doing something. (After all, it seems right).
What if God tasks us to do something that we don’t want to do? The brakes we slam on don’t halt time, they just delay the inevitable...and our spiritual growth. One thing is sure: to whomever God brings a job will be held accountable for obedience. Or disobedience. Perhaps the most famous scaredy cat in the Bible is Gideon.
God wanted Gideon to save Israel from the Midianites. Judges 6:14 ends with what sounds like a dare: “Am I not sending you?” Gideon considered himself too weak to do this (Judges 6:15). Let someone else save Israel, we can almost hear him plead with God. Gideon needed constant reassurance. Gideon proposed a test to God, so that he’d know this task really came from the Almighty (vv. 36-39). (We might think that testing God is rude, or at least, irreverent!)
Gideon wanted dew to be on the wool fleece that was on the threshing room floor when he awoke. Gideon squeezed a bowlful of dew out of the fleece, the next morning! That should prove that this was from God.
But that wasn’t good enough for Gideon. “Don’t be angry with me...just one more request with the fleece.” Gideon begged. “This time make the fleece dry and the ground covered with dew.” (Judges 6:39).
Are you kidding me? Who was daring whom? Well, that night, “God did so. Only the fleece was dry; all the ground was covered with dew.”
OK. Gideon was either the biggest scaredy cat, or the bravest human—ever! He does teach us how indulgent God is when His kids need assurance. Gideon also teaches us to trust in, depend fully on, and how to communicate face-to-face with an invisible God.
Take Home Nugget
People can be too independent, and never check out God’s plan for their lives. The opening Scripture says that only when we lean on God will our plans work out well. See the lesson link, below, for another Gideon-God interaction.
Show me that my “wants” lead to dead-ends
And that Your wise leading brings fruitful dividends.
JD Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Scaredy Cat Dare
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Part 8 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we could see into the future to know beforehand that everything will turn out alright? Don’t feel badly if you ever put off doing something for awhile, because you didn’t have that assurance. We are all kids, and we’re still learning to trust God. These “works in progress” (you and me) don’t appreciate having to wait for God’s answer to prayers before doing something. (After all, it seems right).
What if God tasks us to do something that we don’t want to do? The brakes we slam on don’t halt time, they just delay the inevitable...and our spiritual growth. One thing is sure: to whomever God brings a job will be held accountable for obedience. Or disobedience. Perhaps the most famous scaredy cat in the Bible is Gideon.
God wanted Gideon to save Israel from the Midianites. Judges 6:14 ends with what sounds like a dare: “Am I not sending you?” Gideon considered himself too weak to do this (Judges 6:15). Let someone else save Israel, we can almost hear him plead with God. Gideon needed constant reassurance. Gideon proposed a test to God, so that he’d know this task really came from the Almighty (vv. 36-39). (We might think that testing God is rude, or at least, irreverent!)
Gideon wanted dew to be on the wool fleece that was on the threshing room floor when he awoke. Gideon squeezed a bowlful of dew out of the fleece, the next morning! That should prove that this was from God.
But that wasn’t good enough for Gideon. “Don’t be angry with me...just one more request with the fleece.” Gideon begged. “This time make the fleece dry and the ground covered with dew.” (Judges 6:39).
Are you kidding me? Who was daring whom? Well, that night, “God did so. Only the fleece was dry; all the ground was covered with dew.”
OK. Gideon was either the biggest scaredy cat, or the bravest human—ever! He does teach us how indulgent God is when His kids need assurance. Gideon also teaches us to trust in, depend fully on, and how to communicate face-to-face with an invisible God.
Take Home Nugget
People can be too independent, and never check out God’s plan for their lives. The opening Scripture says that only when we lean on God will our plans work out well. See the lesson link, below, for another Gideon-God interaction.
Show me that my “wants” lead to dead-ends
And that Your wise leading brings fruitful dividends.
JD Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Scaredy Cat Dare
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
Next Time Apology
NEXT TIME APOLOGY
Part 7 of 10 in Promises of God Series
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and will purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Ten year old Jeremy threw a “hail Mary” football pass to classmate Brad during recess at school. Brad turned and ran fast, his eyes glued on the ball. His saw two first graders playing in his path, and yelled, “Look out!”
Paula and Colleen saw Brad bounding towards them, and screamed. The recess monitor, Ms. Busby, heard the scream and rushed towards it. “What’s wrong?” Ms. Busby asked as Brad slammed into her.
Brad held Ms. Busby, to prevent her falling to the ground. “I am so sorry, Ms. Busby!” he said, watching the football bounce on the ground a few yards away. Brad sighed. Then he asked Ms. Busby, “Are you alright?”
Ms. Busby saw that the girls were fine, and smiled at Brad. “I suppose you were in too much a hurry to catch the football to see who was in your way,” Ms. Busby said. “Be more careful the next time.”
People are often too hurried to be careful. Kids seem to always in a hurry. They run everywhere instead of walking. When teenagers get a driver’s license, they speed down the road. Kids can’t wait to grow up. Teenagers can’t wait until they may date. The growing up path introduces turmoil and commotion into people’s lives—all without apology.
Growing up ruckus is supposed to happen. Growing up is a big deal! While physical growth happens daily without trumpets blasting, emotional and spiritual growth is different. People mature after learning from past mistakes. And mistakes happen daily. Hopefully, apologies accepted for mistakes made keep relationships with people in good standing.
The next time we make the same mistake, do we apologize again? Yes, of course. An apology is a confession that the person did something wrong. While not every mistake we make is a sin, apologizing to God for sins—or confession—should be done daily. This keeps our relationship with God in good standing.
When believers in Jesus confess sin, we are confident that God forgives us. The opening Scripture assures us that He purifies us from all unrighteousness EVERY TIME we confess sin!
Take Home Nugget
How cool is that? God only forgives people’s confessions who believe in Jesus—whose shed blood washes us clean. But know this: When believers truly repent of sin, they turn away from it. There should never be a “next time apology” for the same sin!
The sinner who believes in Jesus and confesses sin, is covered by His blood—and the Father sees only someone pure and righteous.
JD Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Next Time Apology
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Part 7 of 10 in Promises of God Series
1 John 1:9
“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and will purify us from all unrighteousness.”
Ten year old Jeremy threw a “hail Mary” football pass to classmate Brad during recess at school. Brad turned and ran fast, his eyes glued on the ball. His saw two first graders playing in his path, and yelled, “Look out!”
Paula and Colleen saw Brad bounding towards them, and screamed. The recess monitor, Ms. Busby, heard the scream and rushed towards it. “What’s wrong?” Ms. Busby asked as Brad slammed into her.
Brad held Ms. Busby, to prevent her falling to the ground. “I am so sorry, Ms. Busby!” he said, watching the football bounce on the ground a few yards away. Brad sighed. Then he asked Ms. Busby, “Are you alright?”
Ms. Busby saw that the girls were fine, and smiled at Brad. “I suppose you were in too much a hurry to catch the football to see who was in your way,” Ms. Busby said. “Be more careful the next time.”
People are often too hurried to be careful. Kids seem to always in a hurry. They run everywhere instead of walking. When teenagers get a driver’s license, they speed down the road. Kids can’t wait to grow up. Teenagers can’t wait until they may date. The growing up path introduces turmoil and commotion into people’s lives—all without apology.
Growing up ruckus is supposed to happen. Growing up is a big deal! While physical growth happens daily without trumpets blasting, emotional and spiritual growth is different. People mature after learning from past mistakes. And mistakes happen daily. Hopefully, apologies accepted for mistakes made keep relationships with people in good standing.
The next time we make the same mistake, do we apologize again? Yes, of course. An apology is a confession that the person did something wrong. While not every mistake we make is a sin, apologizing to God for sins—or confession—should be done daily. This keeps our relationship with God in good standing.
When believers in Jesus confess sin, we are confident that God forgives us. The opening Scripture assures us that He purifies us from all unrighteousness EVERY TIME we confess sin!
Take Home Nugget
How cool is that? God only forgives people’s confessions who believe in Jesus—whose shed blood washes us clean. But know this: When believers truly repent of sin, they turn away from it. There should never be a “next time apology” for the same sin!
The sinner who believes in Jesus and confesses sin, is covered by His blood—and the Father sees only someone pure and righteous.
JD Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Next Time Apology
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, January 18, 2013
Missed Paycheck
MISSED PAYCHECK
Part 6 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”
“We missed you, Phillip.” Mr. Robbins said before the fifth grade Sunday school began. He placed his arm around Phillip’s shoulder and whispered in his ear, “It all comes from God, son. It may be embarrassing to ask for help when needed, but that’s nothing to be ashamed of.”
Phillip looked at Mr. Robbins with misty eyes, and nodded his head.
“Open your Bibles to Philippians, chapter four,” Mr. Robbins began.
In these days of people losing jobs, many are terrified. How can they keep their homes? How will they eat? When people cannot see the solution to a problem, they frequently lose heart. Losing one’s job creates severe personal panic. Missing paychecks are not just other people’s problem anymore; their own lives are spiraling out of control!
Apostle Paul understood panic. He advised his congregation in Philippi: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6). Nothing is too hard for God.
Sometimes prayer sounds too easy as a solution to deeply personal problems. People want to do for themselves. They don’t want to be seen as charity cases. Pulling oneself up by one’s own bootstraps is the motto of the proud. Bootstrap pulling up is how people prefer to solve their own problems. But when life’s problems climb past desperate into the “drastic” zone, smart believers fall on their knees (in prayer).
Extreme problems demand radical answers. Since God owns all; He can give generously. (Colossians 1:16). And God wants His kids to live victoriously. With each missed paycheck, believers do everything they can—including crying out to God for help. It’s no surprise when churches offer food and financial help to families in need. Bodies of believers reach out in love—from God’s glorious riches—to offer help to others.
“Phillip, please read aloud verse 13 to the class,” Mr. Robbins said.
Phillip read, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” Phillip smiled. He announced, “This week will be better for my family. Daddy got a new job. No more missed paychecks!”
Take Home Nugget
The class cheered for Phillip’s good news. (Mr. Robbins had led them in prayer for Phillip’s family last week). They remembered Phillip’s empty chair. God answered their prayer. Check out the lesson, linked below, for more from apostle Paul.
Dearest God, who always hears His children’s prayers,
Thank You for providing for every one of our needs.
Thank You for filling missing peoples’ empty chairs,
Thank You for leading Your church in good deeds.
JD Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Missed Paycheck
http://www.formexperts.com/forms/LLTOYWKZ9906
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Part 6 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Philippians 4:19
“And my God will meet all your needs according to His glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”
“We missed you, Phillip.” Mr. Robbins said before the fifth grade Sunday school began. He placed his arm around Phillip’s shoulder and whispered in his ear, “It all comes from God, son. It may be embarrassing to ask for help when needed, but that’s nothing to be ashamed of.”
Phillip looked at Mr. Robbins with misty eyes, and nodded his head.
“Open your Bibles to Philippians, chapter four,” Mr. Robbins began.
In these days of people losing jobs, many are terrified. How can they keep their homes? How will they eat? When people cannot see the solution to a problem, they frequently lose heart. Losing one’s job creates severe personal panic. Missing paychecks are not just other people’s problem anymore; their own lives are spiraling out of control!
Apostle Paul understood panic. He advised his congregation in Philippi: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6). Nothing is too hard for God.
Sometimes prayer sounds too easy as a solution to deeply personal problems. People want to do for themselves. They don’t want to be seen as charity cases. Pulling oneself up by one’s own bootstraps is the motto of the proud. Bootstrap pulling up is how people prefer to solve their own problems. But when life’s problems climb past desperate into the “drastic” zone, smart believers fall on their knees (in prayer).
Extreme problems demand radical answers. Since God owns all; He can give generously. (Colossians 1:16). And God wants His kids to live victoriously. With each missed paycheck, believers do everything they can—including crying out to God for help. It’s no surprise when churches offer food and financial help to families in need. Bodies of believers reach out in love—from God’s glorious riches—to offer help to others.
“Phillip, please read aloud verse 13 to the class,” Mr. Robbins said.
Phillip read, “I can do everything through Him who gives me strength.” Phillip smiled. He announced, “This week will be better for my family. Daddy got a new job. No more missed paychecks!”
Take Home Nugget
The class cheered for Phillip’s good news. (Mr. Robbins had led them in prayer for Phillip’s family last week). They remembered Phillip’s empty chair. God answered their prayer. Check out the lesson, linked below, for more from apostle Paul.
Dearest God, who always hears His children’s prayers,
Thank You for providing for every one of our needs.
Thank You for filling missing peoples’ empty chairs,
Thank You for leading Your church in good deeds.
JD Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Missed Paycheck
http://www.formexperts.com/forms/LLTOYWKZ9906
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Welcomed Home
WELCOMED HOME
Part 5 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
“I don’t care, Benjy!” Tubalt yelled at his third grade classmate during recess. “I didn’t choose you to play on MY team!”
Benjy scowled. “Then I don’t want to play on your team, either!” he countered. Benjy ran towards the playground. Sniffling back hot tears, he retrieved a basketball. Looking around the playground, he bounced it to Danny.
“Thanks.” Benjy’s twin brother Danny said, shooting another free throw. “I thought you were going to play soccer today.”
“Nah,” Benjy choked out. “Who wants to play that sissy game?”
“Well, you’re always welcome to rebound my basketball,” Danny said, chuckling. We can play two-on-two during recess, ya know. I enjoy beating you!”
Benjy laughed. He smiled. It felt so good to be welcomed. Scratching his head tilted to one side, he teased back, “If I remember correctly, I beat you the last time!”
How good it feels after we’re turned away, to be welcomed somewhere. God’s kids are ALWAYS welcomed home. Home is not a house or apartment; home is where you find love and family. God is Father for those who choose to believe in His Son Jesus. Jesus is a Big Brother to everyone who accepts Him as Lord and Savior. All God’s kids are brothers and sisters to each other through Christ. Our real “home” has a “heavenly” address. The opening Scripture declares that nothing can separate believers from the love of their divine family and home.
Who else would choose you—out of zillions of people—to be His own, other than God the Father? Those He chooses, He also transforms into His Son’s likeness. You even begin to look like Jesus! (At least on the inside). And, just as every decent big brother does, Jesus covers His siblings’ mistakes. His shed blood on the cross makes you appear blameless to our Father.
That’s right. Abba sees only good kids when we go home! (Romans 8:15).
Take Home Nugget
Benjy has Danny to run to, when rejected by others. We all have Jesus to run to, whenever we’re rejected. Jesus understands rejection. He was rejected, too. In fact, He was falsely accused, and put to death. (For our sins!) And yet, He welcomes us home every time we call on Him.
Home is a Father’s lap,
Home is where we go in prayer.
Home is where our sins are forgiven,
Home is as close as Jesus—everywhere!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Welcomed Home
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Part 5 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
“I don’t care, Benjy!” Tubalt yelled at his third grade classmate during recess. “I didn’t choose you to play on MY team!”
Benjy scowled. “Then I don’t want to play on your team, either!” he countered. Benjy ran towards the playground. Sniffling back hot tears, he retrieved a basketball. Looking around the playground, he bounced it to Danny.
“Thanks.” Benjy’s twin brother Danny said, shooting another free throw. “I thought you were going to play soccer today.”
“Nah,” Benjy choked out. “Who wants to play that sissy game?”
“Well, you’re always welcome to rebound my basketball,” Danny said, chuckling. We can play two-on-two during recess, ya know. I enjoy beating you!”
Benjy laughed. He smiled. It felt so good to be welcomed. Scratching his head tilted to one side, he teased back, “If I remember correctly, I beat you the last time!”
How good it feels after we’re turned away, to be welcomed somewhere. God’s kids are ALWAYS welcomed home. Home is not a house or apartment; home is where you find love and family. God is Father for those who choose to believe in His Son Jesus. Jesus is a Big Brother to everyone who accepts Him as Lord and Savior. All God’s kids are brothers and sisters to each other through Christ. Our real “home” has a “heavenly” address. The opening Scripture declares that nothing can separate believers from the love of their divine family and home.
Who else would choose you—out of zillions of people—to be His own, other than God the Father? Those He chooses, He also transforms into His Son’s likeness. You even begin to look like Jesus! (At least on the inside). And, just as every decent big brother does, Jesus covers His siblings’ mistakes. His shed blood on the cross makes you appear blameless to our Father.
That’s right. Abba sees only good kids when we go home! (Romans 8:15).
Take Home Nugget
Benjy has Danny to run to, when rejected by others. We all have Jesus to run to, whenever we’re rejected. Jesus understands rejection. He was rejected, too. In fact, He was falsely accused, and put to death. (For our sins!) And yet, He welcomes us home every time we call on Him.
Home is a Father’s lap,
Home is where we go in prayer.
Home is where our sins are forgiven,
Home is as close as Jesus—everywhere!
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Welcomed Home
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, January 11, 2013
In His Grip
IN HIS GRIP
Part 4 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Isaiah 41:10
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
“Skate like you walk, Shak,” ten year old Cassie advised her eight year old cousin at the indoor ice-skating rink. She gripped Shakira’s hand as she began to fall, and lifted her up. “Pretend you’re roller blading.”
“Right.” Shakira agreed, nodding her head. “I know how to roller blade!” Shakira smiled and relaxed. Within seconds, she was ice skating! “Yah!”
Cassie let go of her hand. She watched her little cousin skate ahead of her, happy and confident. Some of God’s kids never smile and relax—because they don’t trust the One Who’s in charge. Many people refuse to believe that Jesus is our Big Brother, a friend who lifts us up whenever we begin to fall. Believers often forget that God grips us in His righteous right hand—exactly like the opening Scripture says.
When will we get who God is, how strong He is, or how dependable He is? God understands that “all men are grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them.” (Isaiah 40:7). Jesus’ life proved that just walking and talking make humans hungry and tired. God knows what humans need just to stay alive.
Isaiah 40:11 says, “He tends His flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those who have young.” This is the very picture of Jesus! Jesus says in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” And Jesus did just that!
Jesus taught, healed, and performed miracles while on earth, and got people’s attention. But still many refused to believe that He is God’s Son, the long-awaited Messiah. Jesus didn’t refuse doing what He came to earth for—dying on the cross. His death paid the price of human sin, the last sacrifice the Father needed to welcome His kids back into His family. One day—after everyone on earth has a chance to either accept or reject Jesus as Lord—He’ll return to earth.
Take Home Nugget
“I have other sheep that are not of this pen.” Jesus teaches in John 10:16. “I must bring them also. They too will listen to My voice, and there shall be one flock, and one Shepherd.”
Gripped in the Father’s right hand is where believers wait for His Son’s return.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for In His Grip
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Part 4 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Isaiah 41:10
“Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.”
“Skate like you walk, Shak,” ten year old Cassie advised her eight year old cousin at the indoor ice-skating rink. She gripped Shakira’s hand as she began to fall, and lifted her up. “Pretend you’re roller blading.”
“Right.” Shakira agreed, nodding her head. “I know how to roller blade!” Shakira smiled and relaxed. Within seconds, she was ice skating! “Yah!”
Cassie let go of her hand. She watched her little cousin skate ahead of her, happy and confident. Some of God’s kids never smile and relax—because they don’t trust the One Who’s in charge. Many people refuse to believe that Jesus is our Big Brother, a friend who lifts us up whenever we begin to fall. Believers often forget that God grips us in His righteous right hand—exactly like the opening Scripture says.
When will we get who God is, how strong He is, or how dependable He is? God understands that “all men are grass, and all their glory is like the flowers of the field. The grass withers and the flowers fall, because the breath of the Lord blows on them.” (Isaiah 40:7). Jesus’ life proved that just walking and talking make humans hungry and tired. God knows what humans need just to stay alive.
Isaiah 40:11 says, “He tends His flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in His arms and carries them close to His heart; He gently leads those who have young.” This is the very picture of Jesus! Jesus says in John 10:11, “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep.” And Jesus did just that!
Jesus taught, healed, and performed miracles while on earth, and got people’s attention. But still many refused to believe that He is God’s Son, the long-awaited Messiah. Jesus didn’t refuse doing what He came to earth for—dying on the cross. His death paid the price of human sin, the last sacrifice the Father needed to welcome His kids back into His family. One day—after everyone on earth has a chance to either accept or reject Jesus as Lord—He’ll return to earth.
Take Home Nugget
“I have other sheep that are not of this pen.” Jesus teaches in John 10:16. “I must bring them also. They too will listen to My voice, and there shall be one flock, and one Shepherd.”
Gripped in the Father’s right hand is where believers wait for His Son’s return.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for In His Grip
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
God Leads Us Through Wobble
GOD LEADS US THROUGH WOBBLE
Part 3 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Deuteronomy 31:8
“The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
“Cassie!” Eight year old Shakira yelled to her ten year old cousin at the indoor ice skating rink. “I just know I’m gonna fall!”
Cassie skated to Shakira and grabbed her hand. “Oh my! Your skate’s laces are way too loose, Shak!”
Cassie led Shakira off the rink. “Sit down,” Cassie said. Retying Shakira’s laces, Cassie advised, “Skates need to be laced up tightly. Your ankles need to be held secure, so they don’t wobble. Wobbly ankles lead to sprains, even broken bones!”
Cassie is correct. Everyone who roller skates knows that tight laces are the key to stable ankles—and Shakira loves roller blading! Wobbly ankles makes skating on ice even more dangerous. Shakira knew better. So do we.
How many God’s kids lead loose lives in the world? The world is the devil’s playground (1 Peter 5:8). Living loose lives is as dangerous as skating on ice with loose laces is. Our ankles will break from wobble! (Ankles, faith, trust, and obedience are dangerous wobble zones). But everyone whose faith is tight in the Lord lead lives that never wobble. They remain secure and stable, even when times of trouble are as slick as ice. Trusting God leads His kids through scary-times wobble.
The opening Scripture shows Moses giving Joshua a pep talk in front of the
Israelites. After leading the Israelites forty years through the desert to their promised land, Moses was announcing that Joshua would lead them now. Would the Israelites even follow Joshua?
We can read how the Israelites’ faith wobbled from trust to fear many times during those forty years of desert wandering. (See Exodus 2-Deuteronomy). Now leading God’s people was left up to Joshua—just as it’s up to Cassie, you, and me—to help secure wobbly people.
Take Home Nugget
The Jewish people survived terrible times of rebellious wobble: taken captive to foreign nations, and slaughter of millions after taking possession of their promised land. But on May 15, 1948, the State of Israel was established as an independent nation. The end of the six-day war in1967, defined Israel’s borders. Today, the West Bank and Gaza Strip remain controversial. And yet, God is faithful. Streams of His people continue to pour “home” to Israel from all across the world. Won’t you trust God to lead you through future scary times wobble?
Territory held by Israel before and after the Six Day War.
www.ifamericansknew.org/history/maps.html
Trusting God to lead us through trouble will cure our wobble.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for God Leads Us Through Wobble
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Part 3 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Deuteronomy 31:8
“The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
“Cassie!” Eight year old Shakira yelled to her ten year old cousin at the indoor ice skating rink. “I just know I’m gonna fall!”
Cassie skated to Shakira and grabbed her hand. “Oh my! Your skate’s laces are way too loose, Shak!”
Cassie led Shakira off the rink. “Sit down,” Cassie said. Retying Shakira’s laces, Cassie advised, “Skates need to be laced up tightly. Your ankles need to be held secure, so they don’t wobble. Wobbly ankles lead to sprains, even broken bones!”
Cassie is correct. Everyone who roller skates knows that tight laces are the key to stable ankles—and Shakira loves roller blading! Wobbly ankles makes skating on ice even more dangerous. Shakira knew better. So do we.
How many God’s kids lead loose lives in the world? The world is the devil’s playground (1 Peter 5:8). Living loose lives is as dangerous as skating on ice with loose laces is. Our ankles will break from wobble! (Ankles, faith, trust, and obedience are dangerous wobble zones). But everyone whose faith is tight in the Lord lead lives that never wobble. They remain secure and stable, even when times of trouble are as slick as ice. Trusting God leads His kids through scary-times wobble.
The opening Scripture shows Moses giving Joshua a pep talk in front of the
Israelites. After leading the Israelites forty years through the desert to their promised land, Moses was announcing that Joshua would lead them now. Would the Israelites even follow Joshua?
We can read how the Israelites’ faith wobbled from trust to fear many times during those forty years of desert wandering. (See Exodus 2-Deuteronomy). Now leading God’s people was left up to Joshua—just as it’s up to Cassie, you, and me—to help secure wobbly people.
Take Home Nugget
The Jewish people survived terrible times of rebellious wobble: taken captive to foreign nations, and slaughter of millions after taking possession of their promised land. But on May 15, 1948, the State of Israel was established as an independent nation. The end of the six-day war in1967, defined Israel’s borders. Today, the West Bank and Gaza Strip remain controversial. And yet, God is faithful. Streams of His people continue to pour “home” to Israel from all across the world. Won’t you trust God to lead you through future scary times wobble?
Territory held by Israel before and after the Six Day War.
www.ifamericansknew.org/history/maps.html
Trusting God to lead us through trouble will cure our wobble.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for God Leads Us Through Wobble
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Friday, January 4, 2013
NEVER FAIL
NEVER FAIL
Part 2 of 10 in Promises of God Series
1 Kings 8:56
“Praise be to the Lord, who has given rest to His people Israel just as He promised. Not one word has failed of all the good promises He gave through His servant Moses.”
“Not fair!” Third grade Benjy screamed to his twin brother, Danny. “You promised that I could ride your new bike!”
Danny pointed to Benjy’s bike. “Your bike is just like mine! Ride your own. What’s the difference?”
“Yours is red. Mine is blue. I want to ride your red bike to see if it’s faster than mine.” Benjy defended himself.
People naturally compare themselves to others. We feel “ripped off” (cheated), when differences are obvious. People often make promises that are easily and casually broken. Danny could have challenged Benjy’s wanting to ride his bike as soon as he asked—instead of promising that he could ride it. Does it make sense that color would make one bike faster than another?
People are often unreasonable. People frequently break promises.
But when God seems unreasonable, what humans can’t see confirms God’s (unseen) reason. Solomon just assured the Israelites—in the opening Scripture—that no word from God fails. God made good on every promise that He gave to Solomon’s dad King David. Solomon just finished the temple for God’s Name that God told David his successor would build (1 Kings 5:5, 8:27). God never breaks a promise.
Solomon succeeded David as King of Israel, and completed the temple, just as God promised. After the temple was built, Solomon assured the Israelites that God would never leave or forsake them—as as long as they walk in God’s ways and keep His commands (1 Kings 8:58).
Some of God’s promises are conditional—promises that depend on the receiver’s obedience to specific commands—as is seen in the previous paragraph. Other promises God makes are unconditional. The Father sent Jesus to earth as one unconditional promise. Whether people receive eternal life is “conditional” on their accepting Him as Lord of their lives.
Take Home Nugget
Promises people make should never be made quickly or without thought—just to get the person out of your face. Promises are deliberate words spoken by one to another—that encourage the receiver’s trusting the speaker to deliver. Benjy and Danny wrestle one another daily, as twins bent on one getting more than the other.
Holy Father in heaven, lead Your children into trusting You to deliver Your promises, that this “Promises of God” series will show. Teach us how gracious Your gifs and promises are to our best welfare. May we offer You thanks and praise for promises we don’t know enough to request.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Gifts & Promises
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Part 2 of 10 in Promises of God Series
1 Kings 8:56
“Praise be to the Lord, who has given rest to His people Israel just as He promised. Not one word has failed of all the good promises He gave through His servant Moses.”
“Not fair!” Third grade Benjy screamed to his twin brother, Danny. “You promised that I could ride your new bike!”
Danny pointed to Benjy’s bike. “Your bike is just like mine! Ride your own. What’s the difference?”
“Yours is red. Mine is blue. I want to ride your red bike to see if it’s faster than mine.” Benjy defended himself.
People naturally compare themselves to others. We feel “ripped off” (cheated), when differences are obvious. People often make promises that are easily and casually broken. Danny could have challenged Benjy’s wanting to ride his bike as soon as he asked—instead of promising that he could ride it. Does it make sense that color would make one bike faster than another?
People are often unreasonable. People frequently break promises.
But when God seems unreasonable, what humans can’t see confirms God’s (unseen) reason. Solomon just assured the Israelites—in the opening Scripture—that no word from God fails. God made good on every promise that He gave to Solomon’s dad King David. Solomon just finished the temple for God’s Name that God told David his successor would build (1 Kings 5:5, 8:27). God never breaks a promise.
Solomon succeeded David as King of Israel, and completed the temple, just as God promised. After the temple was built, Solomon assured the Israelites that God would never leave or forsake them—as as long as they walk in God’s ways and keep His commands (1 Kings 8:58).
Some of God’s promises are conditional—promises that depend on the receiver’s obedience to specific commands—as is seen in the previous paragraph. Other promises God makes are unconditional. The Father sent Jesus to earth as one unconditional promise. Whether people receive eternal life is “conditional” on their accepting Him as Lord of their lives.
Take Home Nugget
Promises people make should never be made quickly or without thought—just to get the person out of your face. Promises are deliberate words spoken by one to another—that encourage the receiver’s trusting the speaker to deliver. Benjy and Danny wrestle one another daily, as twins bent on one getting more than the other.
Holy Father in heaven, lead Your children into trusting You to deliver Your promises, that this “Promises of God” series will show. Teach us how gracious Your gifs and promises are to our best welfare. May we offer You thanks and praise for promises we don’t know enough to request.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Gifts & Promises
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Tuesday, January 1, 2013
Gifts & Promises
GIFTS AND PROMISES
Part 1 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Colossians 1:22
“But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation.”
“Did you make a New Year’s resolution?” Cassie asked her fifth grade classmate, Jeremy, after returning to school.
Jeremy smiled before answering, “I heard you before Christmas recess, Cassie. Actually, my new year’s resolution is to not pull your hair when sitting behind you in class!” (See 2013 Resolution Suggestion devotion).
Cassie giggled, and playfully hit Jeremy’s arm. “Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?” she asked.
“Sure did! How about you?”
Cassie nodded her head, saying, “Yeah. I even got a few things I didn’t realize I needed.”
People love getting and giving gifts. The Father loves giving gifts. Jesus does, too. Jesus’ gift to the Father are believers presented holy, without blemish, and free from accusation—according to the opening Scripture. God loves His creation so much that Jesus gave the Father back His kids—holy, and free from the sins that Jesus’ death paid for. Jesus united His Church (believers)—to the Father—the gift of reconciliation.
The gifts people exchange with one another are not equal. But God’s gifts are unequaled in every way. We know that the Father would only accept a perfect sacrifice to satisfy payment of sins—one without physical or sin blemish. Jesus knew that only He could meet the Father’s perfect-sacrifice requirement. He wanted nothing more than to bring the Father’s kids back into Their family.
Jesus’ homerun of living sinlessly, dying on the cross, and rising to life covered all the bases. His ascension landed Him safely on the Home Plate in Heaven. Jesus’ resurrection defeated death! The Father rewards eternal life to everyone who believes in His Son, Jesus (John 3:16). Jesus’ obedience to the Father’s will gifted both the Father AND all believers in Him.
ETERNAL SALVATION cost Jesus His life—a gift to believers that He willingly paid!
Christians are the blessed receivers of gifts and promises that we could never have known enough to request.
God’s shower of gifts begins the moment anyone accepts Jesus as Savior and Lord. Gifts we didn’t realize how much we needed: justification, redemption, and grace are so appreciated by God’s grateful-for-Jesus kids. The indwelling Holy Spirit is icing on the cake of salvation! Accepting Jesus as Lord also awards fallen people with new lives. Believers are transformed into new creations, no longer slaves to sin (2 Corinthians5:17).
Take Home Nugget
This series will detail nine of God’s promises—more gifts that we didn’t know enough to request.
The Father’s best gift of Jesus should awaken our deepest gratitude.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Gifts & Promises
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
Part 1 of 10 in Promises of God Series
Colossians 1:22
“But now He has reconciled you by Christ’s physical body through death to present you holy in his sight, without blemish and free from accusation.”
“Did you make a New Year’s resolution?” Cassie asked her fifth grade classmate, Jeremy, after returning to school.
Jeremy smiled before answering, “I heard you before Christmas recess, Cassie. Actually, my new year’s resolution is to not pull your hair when sitting behind you in class!” (See 2013 Resolution Suggestion devotion).
Cassie giggled, and playfully hit Jeremy’s arm. “Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?” she asked.
“Sure did! How about you?”
Cassie nodded her head, saying, “Yeah. I even got a few things I didn’t realize I needed.”
People love getting and giving gifts. The Father loves giving gifts. Jesus does, too. Jesus’ gift to the Father are believers presented holy, without blemish, and free from accusation—according to the opening Scripture. God loves His creation so much that Jesus gave the Father back His kids—holy, and free from the sins that Jesus’ death paid for. Jesus united His Church (believers)—to the Father—the gift of reconciliation.
The gifts people exchange with one another are not equal. But God’s gifts are unequaled in every way. We know that the Father would only accept a perfect sacrifice to satisfy payment of sins—one without physical or sin blemish. Jesus knew that only He could meet the Father’s perfect-sacrifice requirement. He wanted nothing more than to bring the Father’s kids back into Their family.
Jesus’ homerun of living sinlessly, dying on the cross, and rising to life covered all the bases. His ascension landed Him safely on the Home Plate in Heaven. Jesus’ resurrection defeated death! The Father rewards eternal life to everyone who believes in His Son, Jesus (John 3:16). Jesus’ obedience to the Father’s will gifted both the Father AND all believers in Him.
ETERNAL SALVATION cost Jesus His life—a gift to believers that He willingly paid!
Christians are the blessed receivers of gifts and promises that we could never have known enough to request.
God’s shower of gifts begins the moment anyone accepts Jesus as Savior and Lord. Gifts we didn’t realize how much we needed: justification, redemption, and grace are so appreciated by God’s grateful-for-Jesus kids. The indwelling Holy Spirit is icing on the cake of salvation! Accepting Jesus as Lord also awards fallen people with new lives. Believers are transformed into new creations, no longer slaves to sin (2 Corinthians5:17).
Take Home Nugget
This series will detail nine of God’s promises—more gifts that we didn’t know enough to request.
The Father’s best gift of Jesus should awaken our deepest gratitude.
J.D. Griffith
Click here for an Interactive-Online-Lesson for Gifts & Promises
A personal, private lesson experience with our staff
Written for www.Biblestudyforkids.com
For FREE Online Bible Study Resources click here.
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