God’s Calling in the Old Testament

Summary of Citywide Children’s Meeting
Regarding Lessons on God’s Calling in the Old Testament

February 12, 2023 – March 10, 2024

Feb. 12, 2023

God’s-Calling-OT-Adam-Eve-FINAL

REVISED AIM: To show the children that God created man in His image, and gave man the highest place among His creation so He could have a relationship with man.
For this lesson, we want to go beyond the previous weeks, where we emphasized that man is different from animals. Focus is that God wants a relationship with us. God was walking in the garden with Adam, not with dogs and cats.
God made us with a mind, emotion and will, so we can think like Him, feel like Him, and choose like Him. By obeying Him (fourth application), we are doing what God wants.
Man is God’s masterpiece. There’s a relationship. God was pleased to come into the garden. Adam was able to understand and talk to God. God entrusted Adam with His creation. God spent time with Adam.
God wanted man to know Him and be friends with Him. He wants to be your friend.
Don’t focus or show any pictures of Adam and Eve and their attempt to cover nakedness. This may become a distraction to children. Rather, emphasize context that they had sinned. So they sewed leaves to cover themselves. Something very bad happened.
This is not in the lesson, but we can emphasize God’s relationship with man. When Adam and Eve hid after they sinned, God called to man and asked, “Where are you?” God came to call them.
Beware of making the lesson too spiritual.
No need to cover points 2 and 3 in application because those don’t relate to the new aim.

Feb. 19, 2023

God’s-Calling-OT-Abel

Focus on the storytelling. We don’t need to spend that much time sermonizing the children with the applications. Rather, just tell them the story.
In this lesson, we see that God’s calling continues. He called the parents. He called the children. But Cain did not listen.
By following the parents, Abel was following God’s way.
Following God’s ways includes telling the truth and confessing our wrongdoings, not lying, and not hiding or blaming others when we do something wrong.
God had warned Cain, but he didn’t repent. Instead, he became angry and acted on it.
Adam’s reaction was to hide. Cain’s reaction was to get angry. Sometimes we get defensive and blame other people.
We discussed whether we need to mention that the blood was needed for forgiveness. Probably no need to get into details. If the children ask, we can mention that this was God’s way. Sacrifice of an animal was needed for the forgiveness of sins.
Be angry but do not sin. As someone put it, anger is one letter away from danger.

Feb. 26, 2023

God’s-Calling-OT-Enosh

This lesson has a short story. Our main focus is that the children can tell God everything, whether it’s joyful or sad. Focus again on the idea of having a relationship/friendship with God.
We can tell the facts that after Adam and Eve disobeyed God’s commandment, that same day, they were cut off from the tree of life and from the presence of God.
Sometime after Abel was killed and after Cain was driven out from God’s presence, Adam and Eve had another son named Seth. Then when Seth grew up, he had a son whom he named Enosh, which means “frail, mortal man”. This name Enosh shows us that by that time Seth and his family realized that man was a weak and frail creature that would one day die.
Some children may be more thoughtful and ask, who did Cain marry? We should be prepared to answer in a simple way and then direct them back to the main point of the lesson. We can simply say that we do not know because God didn’t tell us. The Bible only tells us what we need to know and things that relate to us.
Enosh was the first man that called upon the name of the Lord.
Since the children are young and may not yet be regenerated, our presentation of “calling on the Lord” should not be according to an adult’s understanding of calling on the Lord’s name to contact Him in our spirit. Rather, this lesson should be at their level of encouraging them to pray using the Lord’s name in a simple, prayerful way. There are some practical examples in the lesson itself – such as being afraid of the dark, or being stressed about school. It’s okay for them to tell their parents, and it’s also good for them to pray with their parents about such things.
We can tell the Lord our joys too. We can change some of the examples about happiness so that it doesn’t have to relate to reaching a goal or getting a new thing. We can be happy just to spend time with our family.

Mar. 5, 2023

God’s-Calling-OT-Enoch

God wants a relationship/friendship with man. Enoch was close with God, and God enjoyed him so much that God took him. Enoch didn’t die.
Ask the kids, who do you know the most? You know that person well because you spend a lot of time with them.
We can get to know the Lord in various ways. For example, the more you learn the verses in the Bible and the more you talk to the Lord, the more you get to know Him.
We should be ready for the Lord’s return. We want Him to be happy with us too.

The first application is important – in the midst of the evil age, we can be those who follow God. Many people didn’t follow God, but Enoch did follow God. We don’t have to cover all the other applications.

Mar. 12, 2023

God’s-Calling-OT-Noah-1-of-2

We are covering Noah in two lessons over two weeks.
There is a lot of story to tell for Noah, and we can speak the facts to the children including the dimensions of the ark, how long it took Noah to build it, and that he followed instructions from God. Many people have heard about this story, but to get the details correct, you must read the Bible.
It might be helpful to show pictures. Try to find accurate pictures, NOT the puffy ark with animal heads sticking out.
Like Enoch, Noah also did not go along with the ungodliness that was all around.
Note that many erroneously think that there were only one pair of each kind of animal. But there were 7 pairs (14) of each of the clean animals.

Mar. 19, 2023

God’s-Calling-OT-Noah-2-of-2

Review the first part of the story briefly for those who were not present.
Continue the facts about the story of Noah.
God always remembers us and cares for us.
Regarding Noah’s sons and daughters-in-law, we don’t know if they had a close relationship with God directly, but they followed Noah into the ark and were also saved.
Rainbow – tell them the meaning and the reminder of God’s faithfulness and love.

Mar. 26, 2023

God’s Calling in the OT – Abraham 1 of 4

In this lesson about Abram, focus on trusting the Lord and trusting our parents (who are following the Lord). Abram went out not knowing where he was going.
Skip the details in the “Background” section about the tower of Babel. There is too much detail there for one lesson session. We can simply tell the children that many generations had passed since the time of Noah, and that people had become far away from God, worshipping idols instead of the real God.
Abram was called by God. Like Abram, we don’t always know what’s coming next. Some children may have to move, change schools, or change teachers. Our friends may be in a different class or different school next year.
We should learn to follow the Lord and follow our parents. Ask the children if they remember from prior lessons examples of children following their parents’ ways? Hint: Noah entered into the ark, and his children followed him. Abel followed the way of his parents in giving an offering to God.
Sometimes our parents have to make a decision about something. We should not complain or resist. But trust them to follow what they have decided.
We can skip the other applications since some of them are addressed in the following lessons in the series. Don’t talk about God keeping His promises since it’s covered in the next lesson.

Apr. 2, 2023

Regional Conference with brother Ed Marks

We encourage all the saints to attend the regional conference in New Jersey, but we will still provide children’s service locally for those who are unable to attend. During this week, we will not cover any new lessons. We will review Noah and Abraham (Part 1).
In reviewing Noah, please avoid using inaccurate pictures such as drawings of a puffy ark with animals sticking their heads out.

Apr. 9, 2023

God’s Calling in the OT – Abraham 2 of 4

Focus on God keeping His promises, and give examples. We can ask the children if they know any promises from the Bible. We can also help them list some promises.
We’re not able to keep our promises. Children may also realize that their parents are also not able to always keep promises. But our God always keeps His promises.

Suggested songs:
Every promise in the Bible is mine;
I believe the promises of God;
Father Abraham had many sons;
By faith Abraham being called

Apr. 16, 2023

God’s Calling in the OT – Abraham 3 of 4

Focus on staying away from evil situations. We should not be in the wrong place at the wrong time, with the wrong people. This does not mean we stay away from friends and isolate ourselves. But there are times when we need to walk away and do the right thing. Example: everyone else may not behaving when a substitute teacher is present, but we can still follow the right way.
We can mention in the context of the lesson that it’s good to pray for others, just as Abraham did for his nephew Lot.
Another point to bring out is Abraham and Sarah’s example of receiving hospitality. When you have saints over to your house, it’s like having the Lord. Abraham and Sarah cooked for their guests. It’s important to give hospitality. The Bible even tells us to “pursue hospitality.”
No need to cover the joking application as it is implied and not direct.

Apr. 23, 2023

God’s Calling in the OT – Abraham 4 of 4

Cover both applications in this lesson.
Make clear that God did not really want Abraham to kill Isaac. Abraham told his son Isaac that God would provide, and God actually did provide.
The lesson gives examples of things that occupy our heart, but it may be helpful to give some tangible examples of being willing to give. For example, mention the offering box. It might be helpful to show the children an offering envelope. (Be careful not to make the children feel pressured as they should willingly give, and they should give only with the consent of their parents.) Children could also give away toys or books to others in need.

FELLOWSHIP NOTES for April 30 to May 21 lessons

NOTE: After having fellowship, we decided to skip the lesson on Job because many feel the content is too difficult and somewhat heavy for young children. Therefore, following the Abraham lessons, we will proceed to Isaac and Jacob.

We can continue the series by mentioning that these lessons will cover eight notable men in Genesis: Adam, Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph.

Apr. 30, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Isaac-1-of-2

The applications can be built right into the telling of the story rather than waiting until the end of the lesson. This lesson covers how Isaac found a bride, without any anxiety or worry. The children may experience anxiety even though they are young. For example, they may worry about who is picking them up after school, who to sit next to at lunchtime, and upcoming exams. Some young girls may even think about who they are going to marry one day, but the Lord already knows. We can pray and not be anxious.
Abraham’s servant Eliezer prayed to find a wife for Isaac, and even prayed specifically about details. Some children may feel it is useless to pray or that prayer does not work. It is good to point out that God answers what we need, not necessarily what we want.
Before Eliezer had even finished praying, Rebekah came to draw water from the well.
Point out Rebekah’s character traits, and contrast laziness vs. diligence, hard-working and endurance to complete a task. Rebekah not only got water for Eliezer, but she also worked hard to draw water for all ten camels until they finished drinking.
One camel can drink 30 gallons in 13 minutes or even faster. Times ten camels is a lot of water!
Live demonstration: Bring a one-gallon container of water and have the children volunteer to walk around. They may even try holding one-gallon in each hand. It’s heavy!
Rekebah was hard-working and endured a task to the end. Sometimes we may be asked to do something that we don’t want to do, like homework or studying. But we have to study to do well in school (not just pray about it).

May 7, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Isaac-2-of-2

This lesson continues about Isaac. Here, we see that he is a peacemaker.
This story is not as famous/familiar. We should read and know the story well to tell it with enthusiasm and expression. It may also be helpful to have a map to show the locations that Isaac went.
The applications can be built right into the telling of the story to make it more impactful.
The Philistines were jealous of Isaac, and as a result, they plugged up Isaac’s wells with dirt. This was a mean and aggressive thing to do. Isaac had every right to fight back when the Philistines stopped up his wells, but he chose to keep the peace.
In the lesson, it points out that “pursuing” peace is like chasing to chase something.
There was some discussions in our fellowship about bullying at school. If there is an incident happening at school, the children can tell their parents and teachers. That is being a peacemaker. The point is not for someone to walk all over us, but rather to stop, consider and not react immediately based on impulse.
Another example is when others show off, our reaction may be to show off more. But instead, we can stop and say things like “that’s great” and pursue peace.
We can also be a peacemaker among friends when two people want to play different games. Maybe one wants to play jump rope and the other insists everyone should play tag. We can help be a peacemaker, such as suggesting that we play jumprope today and tag tomorrow.
Eventually, Abimelech was won over by Isaac’s good testimony to dwell in peace. When our goal is for others to know the Lord, that is the right incentive to pursue peace.

May 14, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Jacob-1-of-5

In this lesson, Esau was focused on instant gratification and ended up losing his birthright. We may have to explain birthright to the children, i.e., back then, there were privileges that came with being the firstborn son.
Applications 2 (We should be thankful for everything God has given to us) and 3 (We should appreciate our birthright) are similar. We can discuss both together. Esau was into instant gratification and did not appreciate the birthright in terms of the future. We need to appreciate what we have.
Some kids may not appreciate that their parents restrict them and can’t do what their friends do. They may prefer to do “fun” things, which is the way the world operates right now. There’s something tempting about the idea of instant gratification, but it can lead to something very negative. We can help the children think with a farther view. It’s not easy for a child to consider the future – that’s why we have parents.
We can help the children be grateful and not take things for granted. We should learn not to waste. Some of their parents may be working very hard to make ends meet, even working two jobs.
If you have young people/high schoolers serving, it may be helpful for them to give a testimony about how they may not have appreciated things their parents made them do when they were little, but now they appreciate it.

May 21, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Jacob-2-of-5

Focus on the application that God is with us in difficult situations. Jacob had to flee from home and be apart from his parents.
Also talk about consequences for our actions. Jacob cheated and lied to his brother, and suffered consequences. Because of his choices, he suffered. But the Lord still used that situation positively to help Jacob depend on Him.
Those two points have to go hand in hand. We may think – why did God choose this particular situation? He is still there even in difficult situations. Some of the children may be in difficult family situations. But God is with them. They could even pray for their parents.

May 28, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Jacob-3-of-5

Help the children understand that discipline is not necessarily the same as punishment. Discipline is a kind of training; discipline trains our character. An example mentioned during the fellowship: there was a young girl that hated washing dishes. She would rush through the utensils by washing them all together rather than one at a time. As a result, they were not cleaned well. She was disciplined by her mother and she had to do the dishes for a whole week rather than rotating with her siblings. While the child may feel it as a punishment, she was disciplined so she could be trained to do her chore properly.
Some children may want to do things that other children are allowed to do. But it is good for us to be limited according to the parents that God gave us.
Jacob worked 7 years for Rachel, but Laban deceived him and gave him the older daughter Leah. Laban gave the younger daughter Rachel to Jacob one week after Leah, but Jacob had to work another seven years for Rachel. So he worked 14 years for both.

Jun 4, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Jacob-4-of-5 (split into two lessons)

Due to the length of this lesson, we decided to split it into two weeks.
For this week, we will cover the first two paragraphs of the Content regarding the deal Jacob made with Laban for the goats and sheep. Show pictures of black sheep, and speckled and spotted goats (based on Genesis 30:32), the wages that Jacob negotiated.
Include up to the portion where Laban’s sons complain about Jacob.
Leave out the part about Jacob fleeing and Laban’s pursuit and cover it the following week.
Laban changed his mind multiple times and cheated Jacob multiple times. Despite the deal they made, Laban removed all the goats that were streaked and spotted, and all the black ones among the sheep, and gave them into the care of his own sons.
Jacob took rods of fresh poplar and almond and plane trees and peeled white stripes in them, to somehow try to help the animals give birth to speckled and spotted, and black ones. Jacob tried his own method, but it was really God helping him so that the baby animals born were streaked, speckled and spotted.
Cover the first application about God caring for Jacob and that we can trust God.
Regarding the second application (“God is able”), we can adjust the examples depending on the children we are dealing with. Some of the examples given may not be applicable to your group.

Jun 11, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Jacob-4-of-5 (second part of lesson)

We are continuing the second half of the lesson this week about Jacob fleeing and Laban pursuing him.
The main point of the second part is that God took care of Jacob even though he was afraid of Laban. God took care of both and they made peace with each other.
For this lesson, it may be good enough just to tell the facts of the story and not cover the applications.
Jacob became rich because of God’s blessing.
After overhearing Laban’s sons complaining about Jacob taking away all that belonged to their father, Jacob was afraid of Laban. He did not tell Laban that he was fleeing (leaving).
After some fellowship, we felt it was not necessary to mention that Rachel stole idols from her father. Rather, we can say that Rachel took some things that belonged to her father.
God was taking care of Jacob. Even though Laban was angry, God warned him in a dream.

Jun 18, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Jacob-5-of-5

In this lesson, we can continue to see how the Lord took care of Jacob. He was afraid of his brother Esau, So again he took matters into his own hands and made all kinds of arrangements, but the Lord took care of that by changing Esau’s feelings towards Jacob.
Again, we see that Jacob tried to do things and make plans, but it was really God who was able to help him.
In the end, Jacob had peace with God and peace with man when he returned home.
Jacob wrestled with God until God blessed him.

Jun 25, 2023

No new lesson due to church citywide gathering.

This is not a review, but rather a time for the children to enjoy singing and having activities together.

July 2, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Joseph-1-of-5

Tell the facts of this story introducing Joseph and his brothers.
This lesson is a good amount for the children, not too much and not too little.
The children can relate to points about obedience and jealousy. Good to give some practical examples.

July 9, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Joseph-2-of-5

Follow the simplified language of the lesson, which makes the story of Potiphar’s wife age-appropriate for children.
We should focus on Joseph’s excellent character rather than his outward circumstances. The children may experience unrighteousness and unfair situations in this world, like Joseph. Think of Watchman Nee, who was imprisoned for the Lord’s sake and never got out.
But in every difficult situation, Joseph had a good attitude, behaved the best that he could (even in prison), and trusted God. Following God does not mean only good things happen to us. But our character (how we behave) in those situations is very important.
Focus on the conscience. The children may have experienced situations relating to this, where they were tempted and their conscience bothered them.
We can add into the applications the matter of cellphones and school devices. Even though their parents may not have given them a phone, do they look at things on their friends’ phones or sneak things on their school computers? Among us, one boy mentioned that his friend showed him a clip from a scary movie, and he felt he should have turned away because those thoughts got into him. We should obey our conscience and “flee” like Joseph did when Potiphar’s wife tried to get him.
We can explain to the children what “FLEE” means – run away from something dangerous or evil.

July 16, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Joseph-3-of-5

This story has the most detail so far. The story itself is very captivating. Some saints suggested reading portions of the story directly from the Scripture. We can have the children take turns reading verses, or boys and girls alternate. The older children enjoy this and it frees you from memorizing the details in order to tell the story adequately.
This requires preparation. Either have enough Old Testaments on hand or print out the verses. (You can also project the verses for all to see if you have that capacity in your hall.)
There was some fellowship that because this is summer and many families take vacation at different times, we might want to include a review either at this mid-point (following week, July 23) or continue and review the story at the very end – August 6.

July 23, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Joseph-4-of-5

This lesson is the climax of the story of Joseph and includes many details. Become familiar with the story so that you can tell it well. It will surely hold the children’s attention.
It is probably not a good idea to read the Scripture portion together with the children for this particular lesson because it is too long for them, and more feeling can be added through good storytelling.
See if the children have ideas why Joseph waited so long to reveal himself.
See if the children can point out ways that Joseph’s brothers had changed.
If many children were absent during previous weeks because of summer vacation, take time to review the story so that all the children can enjoy this exciting part of the story. It may mean that you do not get through this part of the lesson this week.
We will add a week of review after the 5th lesson, but the serving ones can also be flexible and just take smaller portions of the story reviewing each week for those children who have missed any of the past weeks, finishing the story on week 6 of Joseph.

July 30, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Joseph-5-of-5

The conclusion of the story brings the whole family to Egypt.
Everything had been according to God’s plan and design.
There are many applications with this lesson. The first one, God’s heart is always good toward us and His promises never waiver, can be covered both this week and next week as the entire lesson is reviewed. The following two applications go well together: We should learn to cooperate with God so that we can become useful to Him, and We should be responsible in the areas entrusted to us.
When talking about being responsible, we can focus on being careful and not wasteful, especially with food and resources.

August 6, 2023

We plan to review the five lessons on Joseph. The serving ones do not need to re-tell all the lessons. Rather, we suggest using cue cards with a scene drawing or a written hint, or use stick figure drawings on a whiteboard to prompt the children to tell various parts of the story. We can help move the story along if they forget any important details. This storyboard card activity can also be used as the craft.

Review of Joseph

Review the sequence of the story especially for those who may have been away during the summer for sections or for all of the story. This does not mean the serving ones are doing all the telling.
Some children might like to retell various parts of the Bible story. Prepare cards with different parts of the story in brief bullet points. Distribute to the children who were present for each part and they can retell filling in details.
Talk with the children about what they liked most about the story. Bring in the last two points of application during this time. We should have a peaceful family situation without quarreling, and Be Generous and Pursue Hospitality.
God put us in families to care for each other. Even our extended family and our church family needs our care, especially sharing, being generous and giving hospitality.

August 13, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Moses-1-of-3

Don’t spend too much time on applications. Tell the story, which has very interesting facts.
In this lesson about the birth of Moses, we can see that the midwives, Shiphrah and Puah, feared God.
For older children, we can point out that in the context of the story that fearing God is not so much being afraid, but rather fearing God means an attitude of utmost respect toward God. Connect fearing God with respecting God and honoring God.
This can be relatable to children, whose classmates may joke around about other students, friends, siblings, their parents or teachers. Consider if you were talking disrespectfully about your parents and they suddenly showed up. You would not want to disappoint or hurt them. Likewise, we do not want to offend God. Some older kids may hear cursing or using the Lord’s name in vain in school. We should have a fear of God, respect God and not participate in that behavior.
For younger children, they might not have much experience with fearing God, but should have a healthy fear of their parents. Instead, the focus can be on taking care of younger siblings or other children who are younger than you are. Just as Miriam followed to see what happened to her baby brother, and took care of him by talking to Pharaoh’s daughter, we can also care for younger ones.

Note to Serving Ones: For additional Lesson Resources for applications and Scripture references, please read: The Travels of the Chosen Children of Israel: The Birth of Moses

August 20, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Moses-2-of-3 (Part 1 of 2)

This lesson will be split into two parts because of the length of the content to be taught over two weeks.
It may be helpful to use stick figure drawings on a chalkboard or whiteboard or chart paper. Also write key words on the whiteboard while you tell the story to keep the children’s interest.
For the first part, we will cover the Background, Content: Moses Flees to Midian, and God’s People Cry Out to God. Next week, we will continue with Moses and the Burning Bush.
Tell the story, which has many interesting details. We do not need to focus on applications for this first part. In the context of the Background, we can mention that Moses was educated. (It’s good for children to learn things even if they don’t think they will need it in the future. Moses didn’t know what knowledge he would be using in the future while he was being educated in his youth.)

August 27, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Moses-2-of-3 (Part 2 of 2)

This lesson has been split into two parts because of the length of the content to be taught over two weeks.
This week we will cover the second part, which starts from Moses and the Burning Bush.
It may be helpful to use stick figure drawings on a chalkboard or whiteboard or chart paper. Also write key words on the whiteboard while you tell the story to keep the children’s interest.
Tell the story, which has many interesting details. We do not need to focus on applications; focus more on the facts of the story.
Note to Serving Ones: For additional Lesson Resources for applications and Scripture references, please read: The Travels of the Chosen Children of Israel: God Calls Moses in the Burning Bush

September 3, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Moses-3-of-3 (Part 1 of 3)

We split this lesson into three parts because of the length of the content.
For part 1, we will cover the beginning of the Content, but leave out the part about the ten plagues.
This lesson is a good contrast between those who feared God (the midwives and Moses’ parents), and someone who is proud and arrogant with a hard heart (Pharaoh). Pharaoh even challenged God.
Point of the lesson – Pharaoh did not have a fear of God. He kept doing the same thing over and over again. In contrast Moses and Aaron kept obeying God and kept going back to speak to Pharaoh. (This can be brought out in all three weeks the lesson is covered)
We can help the children see this difference. Some rock stars and sport stars may exhibit an arrogant and hard heart. Some of them do not fear God and don’t care about what they do or say.
We will cover the first section.
A question came up during our fellowship about Jehovah saying to Moses about God hardening Pharaoh’s heart — (Exodus 4:21), “And Jehovah said to Moses, When you go to return to Egypt, see that you perform before Pharaoh all the wonders which I have put in your power; but I will harden his heart, and he will not let the people go.” Some insightful children may ask about why God would harden Pharaoh’s heart. We also noted in our fellowship that Pharaoh was already very proud, arrogant, and stubborn. We do not need to bring this up, but if the children ask, we can respond that Pharaoh was already very hard-hearted.
Note to Serving Ones: For additional Lesson Resources for applications and Scripture references, please read: The Travels of the Chosen Children of Israel: Plagues Upon Egypt (1 of 2)

September 10, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Moses-3-of-3 (Part 2 of 3)

We have split this lesson into three parts because of the length of the content.
The ten plagues are a result of Pharaoh not fearing God. The plagues were a judgment.
We can remind the children of the contrast between Moses’ and Aaron’s fear of God vs. Pharaoh’s arrogance and attitude of not fearing God, even challenging God.
This week we will cover the second portion including plagues #1-5.
We can point out that the plagues did NOT affect God’s people. He was protecting them. God cares for His people. The plagues only came upon Pharaoh’s people.

Note to Serving Ones: For additional Lesson Resources for applications and Scripture references, please read: The Travels of the Chosen Children of Israel: Plagues Upon Egypt (2 of 2)

September 17, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Moses-3-of-3 (Part 3 of 3)

We have split this lesson into three parts because of the length of the content.
The ten plagues are a result of Pharaoh not fearing God. The plagues were a judgment.
We can remind the children of the contrast between Moses’ and Aaron’s fear of God vs. Pharaoh’s arrogance and attitude of not fearing God, even challenging God.
This week we will cover the second portion including the plagues #6-10.
We can point out that the plagues did NOT affect God’s people. He was protecting them. God cares for His people. The plagues only came upon Pharaoh’s people.

September 24, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Israel-1-of-3 (first part)

This is the weekend of the Young Working Saints & Young Families Conference. Some children may be absent this week.
We plan to cover this lesson in two parts over two weeks because of its length. This lesson is on God’s calling of His people, the children of Israel. Although there are many more facts about the life of Moses that could have been covered, they are not in this lesson due to its specific focus. But saints can feel free to add more background facts as the Lord leads.
We plan to cover the first half as follows: The Tenth Plague-Slaughter of the Firstborn, The Passover: Preparation of the Lamb, and Eating the Lamb.
Next week, we will continue with Applying the Blood on the Doorpost as a Sign, and Leaving Egypt.
We can bring out the application points during the telling of the story.
Suggested additional memory verse: Exodus 12:14a “And this day will be a memorial to you, and you shall keep it as a feast to Jehovah;…”

October 1, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Israel-1-of-3 (second part)

This week we plan to cover the second part of this lesson. Since some families may have been away for the Young Working Saints’ & Young Families Conference, we can give more background.
We are continuing with Applying the Blood on the Doorpost as a Sign, and Leaving Egypt.
Good to bring in the application points during the telling of the story.
One of the points brought out in our fellowship is that the children had to obey their parents’ instructions in preparing for the Passover and staying inside the home.
Another point brought out is not to overemphasize “blood” since some kids may be sensitive to that.

October 8, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Israel-2-of-3

A key point is that Jehovah is fighting for His people.
It may be helpful to use a map to see how the children of Israel felt trapped. It seems from their journey that Moses took them the long way.
As we tell the story, we can engage the kids by telling them the children of Israel’s negative response, and asking the children what they think about the children of Israel.
Use more open-ended questions to get the children to respond.
Application 1 may be more applicable to older children – being different in our behavior and separating out times for the Lord.
Especially for older ones, it is good to encourage them to read the Bible.
Also good to bring up the matter of prayer and telling the Lord our difficulties. Children may experience some difficulties, such as starting a new school, being separated from their friends in the previous year, not doing things that their friends want to do.

October 15, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Israel-3-of-3

God took care of the needs of the children of Israel, and He is taking care of our needs.
Sometimes we complain, but instead we should pray.
The Lord fed the children of Israel for 40 years in the wilderness.
See if the children notice a pattern. The Lord promises something. The people complain when there are difficulties. The Lord responds. But then the people complain again.

NEXT FELLOWSHIP MEETING: Scheduled for Monday October 9, 2023 at 7:30-9:00pm on Zoom.

October 22, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-JoshuaCaleb

Joshua and Caleb trusted in God’s Word and held on to God’s Word.
Our trust is in the unseen God and His promises.
We can use optical illusions to show that we cannot always trust what we see; perspective matters.
There were twelve spies sent to check out the promised land. Ten spies had the perspective of considering themselves as grasshoppers, judging from their own viewpoint. But Joshua and Caleb had God’s perspective from above, and saw the inhabitants of the land of Canaan as their bread.
Our belief in God’s Word begins with knowing God’s Word. We can encourage the children to read the Bible or to read with an older sibling or parent/adult.
When we believe and trust God’s Word, we can be bold to take a stand and speak the truth. E.g., why our family does not celebrate Halloween.

October 29, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Rahab

There will be a regional conference with brother Ed Marks Oct 27-29.
We may consider acting out the story of Rahab using props, songs, stories, and activities.
We may draw a parallel between the scarlet cord and Passover with blood on the doorposts and lintels. Whoever was in the house was saved.
Songs to consider: 6103 Rahab, 200 Round the Walls of Jericho, 3705 Jericho

November 5, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Rahab

We can use this day to review the story of Rahab.

November 12, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Gideon (split into two parts – Part 1 of 2)

This lesson will be split into two parts because of the length of the content and will be taught over two weeks.
Our God is very specific and this series of lessons on God’s Calling have shown us the importance of following His specific instructions carefully.
For the first part, we will cover the Background, Content: God Appearing to Gideon, the Sign of the Meat and Cakes Being Consumed by Fire, and Gideon Obeying God to Tear and Cut Down Idols. Next week, we will continue with the Sign of the Fleece, Preparing for Battle, and Defeating the Midianites.
Gideon did not think he was able to save Israel. But, by being honest with the Lord and telling the Lord what he felt, the Lord responded with a sign and assured Gideon that He was with him.
For the application, we can cover points one and three: we can be honest with the Lord about our fears and Gideon was willing to obey the Lord even if it meant others would be against him.

November 19, 2023

God’s-Calling-OF-Gideon (split into two parts – Part 2 of 2)

This lesson will be split into two parts because of the length of the content and will be taught over two weeks.
This week we will cover the second part, which includes The Sign of the Fleece, Preparing for Battle, and Defeating the Midianites.
For the application, we can cover points two and four: our confidence is in the Lord and be quick to respond and follow instructions with a proper attitude.

November 26, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Samson

Samson, like Gideon, was another judge for Israel.
Serving ones are encouraged to read the Scripture references pertaining to the lesson and use discretion to determine the amount of details to cover. Some children may find the more violent aspects of the story scary or unsettling.
Samson was a Nazarite; his parents consecrated him to the Lord while still in his mother’s womb. Many of the children’s parents also consecrated them to the Lord. Serving ones can give a simple definition “set apart” for the Lord.
The Lord gave Samson physical strength, signified by the hair on his head. Samson made a bad choice in his friendships. He associated himself with a Philistine woman, from among the enemies of Israel. She tricked Samson into allowing the Philistines to shave off Samson’s hair, and this rendered him powerless. Samson did not have “magic hair.” Samson’s hair signifies his consecration to God, as expounded in application 3.
Our parents may consecrate us to the Lord, but our choices determine our continued consecration. We should be careful in how we choose our friendships.
See lesson for song suggestions. Additional song to consider: 6707 The Birth of Samson

December 3, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Ruth

Ruth was a Moabitess but she joined herself to her mother-in-law and to her God and her people. Naomi accepted Ruth and so did Boaz. Boaz married Ruth and they had a baby boy Obed, who was an ancestor of Jesus Christ. Clearly, God also accepted her.
The portion about Boaz redeeming the land (which included marrying Ruth) may be difficult to explain and for the children (especially younger) to understand. Have fellowship about whether to include this with your children and how to present it simply.
When we stay with the people of God, we will be blessed.

December 10, 2023

Gods-Calling-OT-Samuel

Samuel was a priest, a prophet and a judge for Israel.
This is a great story to act out.
Samuel was a Nazarite; his mother gave Samuel to God for all the days of his life. Samuel grew up in God’s house under the priest Eli’s care. He was used to listening and obeying Eli. When God called Samuel in his sleep and revealed to him what would happen to the house of Eli, Samuel was able to tell Eli the truth.
This story might cause children to think that they might audibly hear God’s voice. Serving ones can explain to them that God does not speak in that way anymore. Instead, He often speaks through our conscience. God also speaks through the words in the Bible.
See lesson for song suggestions. Additional songs to consider: 65 God’s Word, 69 Thy Word Have I Hid in My Heart, and 2836 There’s a Part Inside of Me

December 17, 2023

David 1 of 4

The focus of the lesson is on David, so we do not need to give too many details about Saul’s kingship. In part of the lesson, the text says that “Saul lost his kingship.” We can clarify to the children that this does not mean he wasn’t king anymore immediately. He was still king for many more years, but God had rejected him.
In contrast to Saul, David cared about the things God cared about.
We feel it would be good to skip the last application, “Sin has consequences.” Since the focus of the lesson is on David, and not on Saul, we don’t need to cover this application because as presented, it relates more to Saul.
Pure in heart – how can we make it applicable to the younger children’s level? An example of having a pure heart could be having a good attitude towards coming to the meetings and being willing to memorize the Bible verse. If you can’t tear yourself away from video games to go to the meeting or to go to bed on time, this could mean something else is occupying your heart and that it is not pure.
Serving ones: you know your children in your districts and should consider appropriate examples for them.

December 24, 2023

David 2 of 4

Each district can consider whether to cover David 2 of 4 this weekend (12/24) or next weekend (12/31) because both weeks may be during the video training. We can take a break from the David lessons as needed, using one of the weekends for activities. Some ideas of what to do with the time if we take a break:

Review prior lessons.
Watch old children’s meeting videos that feature the kids in your district.
Have some games and activities planned for the children; it doesn’t have to be a substantive lesson.

In David 2 of 4, for the Suggested Activity/Approach written in the lesson, keep in mind that some kids may be sensitive about hitting a drawing of a person on the head even with marshmallows. We can still do the “target” activity to impress them that it wasn’t easy for David to hit Goliath with one stone, but keep in mind your kids’ sensitivities. We can also use a piece of paper or some other other target for the children to aim.
It may be helpful to show how tall Goliath was with a long piece of butcher paper or some other way to mark his approximate height (probably over 9 feet tall).
Practice was necessary for David’s skills, but more importantly, he trusted in the Lord.
Emphasize that Goliath and the Philistines were enemies of God and enemies of the people of God. What David did was self-defense. We can mention the stone hitting Goliath and that David made sure he was dead.
It may be helpful to use the word DEFEATED to describe what David did to Goliath and the victory over the Philistine army. Whether or not to mention David cutting off Goliath’s head depends on the children and age group you are speaking to.
We don’t need to tell every action and detail to the kids. It may be too much information and become confusing. Much of the last paragraph can probably be skipped, relating to Abner, David bringing Goliath’s head to Saul, etc.
First application is practical and simple. They should pray and tell the Lord our concerns and feeling, even as a young child, e.g., things that bother them or worry them. David must have talked to the Lord while he was out in the field. He was so bold when he spoke to the Philistines.

December 31, 2023

David 2 of 4

Please see notes from December 24 for David 2 of 4.

Each district can consider whether to cover David 2 of 4 on Dec 24 or Dec 31 because both weeks may be during the video training. We can take a break from the David lessons as needed, using one of the weekends for activities. Some ideas of what to do with the time if we take a break.

Review prior lessons.
Watch old children’s meeting videos that feature the kids in your district.
Have some games and activities planned for the children; it doesn’t have to be a substantive lesson.

January 7 & 14, 2024

David 3 of 4

We will split David 3 of 4 into two parts over two weekends, January 7 and January 14.
This story is condensed and covers a long time period. David was anointed to become king when he was a boy, probably a teenager. But he had to wait until age 30 to become king (2 Samuel 5:4).
How to split the lesson–Serving ones in each district can fellowship over how to split the lesson into two weeks. Suggestions for splitting:
- Cover up to the first incident where David spares Saul’s life (Points I, II, III, IV first half). During the following week, cover the second incident of David sparing Saul’s life (Point IV second half to the end).
- Alternatively, cover up to David in hiding and God protecting David (Points I, II, III). Leave the incidents of David sparing Saul’s life for the second week (All of Point IV).
- Another way to split is cover Points I, II, III, and part of IV, but leave a cliffhanger. Stop the story right when Saul is in the cave, and David is also in the cave and cuts off Saul’s cloak. What will happen?
We do not need to tell all the details. There are a lot of characters and names, and giving too much content can get confusing for the children. Also they may not remember facts if we cover too much.
It might be good for the older kids to read directly from the Bible about how David respected authority. Even though David had the chance to kill Saul twice, he did not do it. Bring Bibles for the children or print out the selected verses for the children to read out loud during class.
David did not take it into his own hands. Even though he knew he was going to become king, he waited and restrained himself with the view of honoring God and honoring the king. David even swore not to cut off Saul’s descendants.
A practical application for the first half of the lesson. What happened to David was unjust and unfair. Saul was unrighteous in pursuing David. Sometimes, kids may feel something happened that’s unjust and unfair, but they need to trust their parents to do what’s best for them, just as David trusted God.
We can point out that David honored authority, and God took care of David.
David was also humble, and always referred to Saul in a respectful manner.

January 21, 2024

David 4 of 4

There is no need to cover the entire content in this lesson. The application points should be the main burden and only include the relevant content in a simple way.
Saul’s story was a tragedy. Since there is a lot of mention of death in this lesson, we do not want to overwhelm the children with all the details of death. We can say, for example, “The Philistines chased Saul and his sons, and his three sons were killed. Saul himself was wounded and later died in the battle. Israel was defeated.” For the children’s sake, we can skip details about how people died, especially in cases where they took their own life.
We can again highlight that David never considered Saul an enemy, but honored Saul throughout his entire life, and even after Saul’s death.
Stay focused on David’s heart of honoring Saul, God’s anointed.
Instead of celebrating Saul’s death, David grieved and honored him. Contrast David’s heart with Saul’s heart.
David trusted God and God’s timing. He did not immediately become king after Saul died. Saul’s son reigned first and later David became king at the age of thirty.
David honored God and God eventually gave him rest from all his enemies. Jehovah was with him.
Best to follow the wording in the applications, rather than relay all the details of the content.
Instead of listing all the examples in the applications, see if the children can come up with some examples of how they can care for God and God’s people.

January 28, 2024

January 28, 2024 Citywide Gathering

Topic to be determined. We are considering simplifying the time with songs and lessons, and leaving ample time for the children to get to know one another through activities and games.
Sing songs with speaking points in between.
One suggestion was to focus on songs about having proper hearts for God. David was not perfect, but he had a heart for God.
We can sing some Bible Story Songs from the David CD and songs related to the heart.

February 4, 2024

Gods-Calling-OT-Solomon (just cover first half)

Split this lesson into two weeks: Week 1 about Solomon’s wisdom. Week 2 about Solomon building a house for God.
Lesson headings for Week 1 of 2: Solomon Chosen by Jehovah, Solomon’s Request, Solomon’s Wisdom.
We can tell the children how Solomon’s father David prepared all the materials for the construction of the temple. (To help the children connect the previous lessons on David to Solomon, the serving ones may need to give a brief background on David as a king, and introduce Solomon as his son in this lesson.)
Solomon asked for wisdom. Solomon’s wisdom is known even by people who are not Christians.
Solomon was knowledgeable about many subjects, including animals and plants. Maybe give some examples from the Proverbs to show his wisdom (such as the verses in Proverbs 6:6-9 about the ways of the ant).
Solomon’s wisdom is also shown in the story of the two mothers. Some children may be more sensitive about the baby dying, but that is not the focus of the story. The focus is on Solomon’s God-given wisdom in dealing with a difficult situation, and the compassion of the true mother.

February 11, 2024

Gods-Calling-OT-Solomon (cover second half)

This week, we are covering the SECOND HALF of the Solomon lesson. Continue the lesson by covering the headings: Week 2 of 2 – Construction of God’s House, God is Satisfied
We can tell the children how Solomon’s father David prepared all the materials for the construction of the temple.
We can expand these parts by going into the details of how difficult it was to build.
There are statistics given about the number of workers in various fields used to build the temple.
Discuss details about how stone was quarried back then. (Children may not know the word quarry so we may have to define it). They did not have modern machinery like we have now, so indeed it was a lot of work and manual labor.
Solomon followed plans to build God’s house and cared about God’s house. Solomon followed his father, David’s instructions.

February 18, 2024