Being grateful, even for the little things, doesn’t always come easy. We sometimes take for granted the good things we have; we just expect that they’ll always be there. And it’s not that we’re ungrateful (most the time), we just don’t stop to think about what life would be like without them. What would life be like without my job, without my family, without my house, without food? Now those aren’t necessarily little things, but we often take them for granted.
If you have never had to worry about food, thank God (that’s a reminder not a statement). But stop and think about those who do worry about where their next meal will come from so you can be even more grateful for what God has provided.
This week we’re going to share the story of Elijah and the widow with our kids. Elijah had no food or money, but God provided a miraculous way for Elijah and a widow and her son to have food. If you have plenty, I pray God would use you as the blessing to others. If you are worried about food, I pray that God would lead someone to you that can be that miracle. Lastly, I pray that this lesson will open up great conversations for you and your family.
Here’s a snapshot of what we’ll show the kids this week:
Bible Story Focus: I can thank God for food. (Elijah and the Widow • 1 Kings 17:7-16)
Memory Verse: “Give thanks to the Lord for he is good.” Psalm 107:1, NIV
Key Question: Who is good?
Bottom Line: God’s is good.
Bible Story & Worship
Watch this video with your kids so you can recap and discuss it with them. Most of us think of singing as the way we worship God. But remember, whatever you do, if you do it for God, is a form of worship. Help show your kids this concept as you sing and dance with them for our amazing God.
Bible Story Video – Elijah and the Widow
Worship – Don't Be a Turkey
Worship – Special
Worship – Brand New Day
Worship – Thank You God
Activities
Next, use the Memory Verse video to practice the verse with your kids. The hand motions help them will help them to remember as we practice this same verse all month long. Be thinking of a special prize you can give at the end of the month when they say it all by themselves. The activity sheet and coloring page are fun resources to help reinforce what they’ve learned. And don't forget to add to your Thankful Tree your family started last week.
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 verse again. The God helped Elijah and the widow by providing them with food. Make a list with your family of different foods we eat. You’ll use the list when you pray.
PRAYER: “Dear God, food is a really big part of our lives because eating is something we do every day. I pray that every time we see food, we will remember to thank You for it because it’s such a good gift. Thank You for foods like (read the list your family made). We love You, God. In Jesus’ name, amen.”
As we wrap up, I’d 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.
“All your children will be taught by the Lord, and great will be their peace.”
Isaiah 54:13
Angela Moody is the Early Years Ministry Lead at Abundant Life.
