Is it easier to trust God when everything is going well? Why do we struggle to trust Him in the storm? Do you think, maybe, it could be that we just need to change our perspective? It is like the choice to stay mad at someone versus forgiving them; to choose joy even through the tears.
The story of Peter gives us some great insight to help us see how a change in perspective can really impact us. Peter obeyed Jesus when he stepped out of the boat onto the water. He knew, without a doubt, that he could walk on water if Jesus told him to do so. That is amazing faith. But then Peter lost his focus; he took his eyes off Jesus and saw only the storm.
Even during the storm, Peter had faith to step out of the boat. They say that the first step is sometimes the hardest. That may be, but the steps in middle, when the storm continues to rage on, can be just as difficult. We start to doubt our purpose, our mission. Are we really doing what God wanted us to do? If so, why is it so hard? Because His timing, not ours, is perfect. Let us keep our focus on God and let Him worry about the storm.
Here is a snapshot of what we will show the kids this week:
Bible Story Focus: Jesus shows us we can trust God. (Peter Walks on Water • Matthew 14:22-33)
Memory Verse: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart.” Proverbs 3:5, NIV
Key Question: Who can trust God?
Bottom Line: I can trust God.
Bible Story & Worship
Watch the Bible Story Video with your kids so you can recap and discuss it with them in the “Bring Jesus To Their Level” section. Then join your kids in worship as we sing and dance for God.
Bible Story Video – Peter Walks on Water
Worship – I'm Gonna Tell
Worship – When I Look
Activities
Next, use the Memory Verse video to practice our monthly verse. We will practice this verse all month. Be sure to use the hand motions as it helps the kids to remember. Also, think of a fun reward you can give them at the end of the month when they are able to say it all by themselves. The activity sheet and coloring page are fun resources to help reinforce story and/or big idea.
Memory Verse with Hand Motions
Bible Story Activity
Coloring Page
Bring Jesus To Their Level
Finish up your church at home by recapping the story and practicing the memory again. Then say: “Our Bible story, today, was about a man named Peter. He made a splash when he walked to Jesus on water. Jesus told Peter to walk to Him to show Peter that he can trust God. But when Peter stopped trusting, he started sinking! The Bible verse we’re learning will help us remember to trust God, no matter what. It says . . . ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart,’ Proverbs 3:5.
“Today, we’ll make a list of our favorite shoes. It can be running shoes, ballet shoes, rainboots, flip flops, or sparkly shoes—whatever shoes you want. You can even say that barefoot or ‘no shoes’ are your favorite shoes! (Have each family member say something).
“I wonder what kind of shoes Peter had on when he walked on water to Jesus. Hmmm. It doesn’t matter what shoes you wear, as long as you trust God with all your heart! Right? (Pause) Right! Let’s pray. Would anyone like to pray before I pray?” (Give your kid(s) an opportunity to pray if they want to).
PRAYER: “Dear God, thank You for sending Jesus to show us that we can trust You. Jesus did so many amazing things that only He can do to show us that You sent Him and You have the power to do anything. Help us remember that no matter where we walk in our (name the shoes listed) shoes, we can trust You with all our hearts. We love You, God. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
As we wrap up, I would like to leave you with one of the kids’ favorite ‘good-bye’ songs:
Let Me See Your Alligator
Thank you for the opportunity to partner with you in the discipleship of your kid(s). My prayers are with you.
But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”
Matthew 19:14
Angela Moody is the Early Years Ministry Lead at Abundant Life.
