ELEMENTARY KIDS & FAMILIES date:
This resource is designed to allow your family to have time in God’s Word BEFORE your children attend church. Because God’s plan is for parents to be the primary spiritual nurturers of their children’s faith, we want YOU to be the one to introduce this part of The Big God Story to them. For additional support in spiritual parenting and to learn more about creating transforming environments in your home, be sure to pick up HomeFront: A Spiritual Parenting Resource from your church, or download it at HomeFrontMag.com. You can also access the HomeFront app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device.
4.11 God Is Wisdom Part of The Big God Story James 3
Letter from James
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This week, ask each family member about wisdom. that come to mind when they think ask, “What kinds Then Invite them to share their thoughts. r your family members of people do you think are wise?” Afte ing a part of The Big God respond, let them know you’ll be read wisdom. Read of Story that reveals the source trueand if we ask Him for om, wisd is God . ther toge James 3:13–18 wisdom, He promises to give it to us.
Younger Kids
Did You Know?
Your child is greatly influenced by the things you say and do. Model for your child how to seek God’s wisdom through the Bible and prayer when you face challenging circumstances.
• The book of James has sometimes been called “the Proverbs of the New Testament.” • Because God is wisdom, James uses (and points us to) Old Testament wisdom literature to lead us toward a life of faithfilled wisdom.
Your child is likely being influenced by peers. This influence can be positive or negative. Talking with your child regularly about the “wisdom” of the world versus God’s wisdom can help her discern right from wrong.
• James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God … and it will be given to you.” This is reminiscent of Proverbs 2:3–6, which says, “If you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding … then you will understand the fear of the Lord … For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”
Remember Verse May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Thessalonians 5:23
Older Kids
Teachable Moments After reading James 3:13–18, discuss the following together: • What is wisdom? • What’s the difference between the “wisdom” of the world and God’s wisdom? • How does this passage describe God’s wisdom?
Blessing
For more information about blessing your child see the Blessing section in HomeFront: A Spiritual Parenting Resource.
A blessing to pray over your child: (Child’s name), may you have the courage to ask for wisdom. May you know that God is wisdom, and may you trust Him to guide you in all that you do. © 2015 David C Cook. TruResources are developed in partnership with ROCKHARBOR Church and a national network of family and children’s ministry leaders. All rights reserved.