CONTENTS
Biblical Character Illustrated Curriculum Illustrated in Scripture “The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple” (Psalm 19:7b). Biblical
2 Introduction
character is illustrated in this curriculum
2 How to Use This Curriculum
through both artwork and lessons from
3 Goals and Objectives
the lives of people in God’s Word. We most
4 Character Quality Overview
often benefit from the positive examples of faithful men and women. “For whatso-
7 Lesson 1: Rely on Him for Protection
ever things were written aforetime were
8 Bible Story: Paul’s Security Despite Shipwreck
written for our learning, that we through
9 Memory Verse: Psalm 46:1
patience and comfort of the scriptures
10 Activity: Voyage Tracker
might have hope” (Romans 15:4). And there
11 Lesson 2: Invest My Time in Things That Last
were people in the Bible who are representations of poor character, and we can learn from their lives as well. “Now these
12 Bible Story: Matthew’s Choice for the Future
things were our examples, to the intent we
13 Memory Verse: John 6:27
should not lust after evil things, as they
14 Activity: Investment Worksheet
also lusted” (I Corinthians 10:6). We would
15 Lesson 3: Beware of Dependence on Money for Happiness
be wise to learn from the testimonies God has given us in Scripture.
16 Bible Story: The Dilemma of the Rich Young Ruler
Illustrated in Life
17 Memory Verse: I Timothy 6:10
“Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by
18 Activity: Crossword Puzzle
the word of God” (Romans 10:17). Hearing
19 Lesson 4: Replace Fear With Trust
the Word of God causes us to grow in faith. This curriculum offers many practical
20 Bible Story: King Hezekiah and the Threatening Letter
applications of God’s Word to everyday
21 Memory Verse: Psalm 56:3
life. “But be ye doers of the word, and not
22 Activity: A Weak Link
hearers only” (James 1:22). As God enables
23 Additional Resources
23 Hymn History: “The Solid Rock” by Edward Mote
24 Hymn Sheet vMusic: “The Solid Rock”
25 Explaining Salvation to a Child
26 Journal Entry and Application Chart
27 Reproducible Coloring Pages
31 Craft Template and Answer Key
us to act in faith, our lives as believers will illustrate His character to others.
The character of God is illustrated in Scripture. May it also be illustrated in our lives.
Character Quality Overview What is Security? Read aloud, study, and discuss what security means and how it applies to life.
T
he operational definition of security is “structuring my life around that which is eternal and cannot be destroyed or taken away.” Many people strive to obtain wealth, approval, and pleasure, but do not find peace. Peace comes when our minds are fixed on the Lord and we are “For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in trusting in Him heaven” (Psalm 119:89). rather than in material belongings. “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee” (Isaiah 26:3). True security, that which cannot be destroyed or taken away, comes when you live for what will last for eternity. Only three things are eternal, meaning they last forever: God, His Word, and people. (See I Timothy 1:17, Isaiah 40:8, and Matthew 25:46.)
4
•
Do you know God? As God reveals Who He is to you, your walk with Him will be strengthened. Are you aware of His presence throughout each day?
•
Are your life decisions based on God’s Word? God’s Word gives instruction on how to live. Are you learning to read so you can read the Bible? If you already know how to read, are you taking the time to read the Bible?
•
Are you investing in people? Many need to hear about Jesus. Many people need to see good examples of how to obey God. Many need the encouragement
of a smile or a Bible verse. Are people more important to you than your possessions and schedule? When you build your life around these three eternal things, you will find true security that cannot be destroyed or taken away. The opposite of security is anxiety. People tend to worry. Sometimes they worry about what they think they need but don’t have. When they get the desired item, then they worry that it may be lost! Anxiety can be overcome by: resting in God’s goodness, trusting that He has a plan and a purpose for your life, and believing He provides for His will to be done. “In the LORD put I my trust” (Psalm 11:1a). Temporal things are the opposite of eternal things. “The things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal” (II Corinthians 4:18). Temporal things “Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that only give happiness for which is not? for riches certainly a short time and can be make themselves wings; they fly easily lost. They cannot away as an eagle toward heaven” provide true security. (Proverbs 23:5). Is it wrong to work for earthly possessions? No, you need money and possessions to fulfill the responsibilities God has given you. These responsibilities have eternal significance. Temporal things, which can be seen, are not the end goal—gain them to exchange them for things of lasting value, which cannot be seen.
Security in Scripture Read aloud and discuss each verse, question, and concept.
P
roverbs 2:1–6 says, “My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with
thee; So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for under-
SECURITY IN MY LIFE Now let’s examine some ways God wants us to live out security daily. •
When circumstances are difficult, do I continue to trust God for safety and deliverance? (See Psalm 34:19.)
•
What temporal benefits does God promise to those who are motivated by an eternal perspective? (See Psalm 41:1–2.)
•
Do I take time to stop and simply reflect on God’s sovereignty? (See Psalm 46:10.)
•
Should I find security in the approval and acceptance of others? (See Psalm 41:9.)
•
What is the result of structuring my life upon God and His Word? (See Proverbs 16:20.)
•
Where can I find my greatest source of security and strength? (See Isaiah 30:15.)
•
What are my most beloved treasures? Will those treasures last for eternity? (See Matthew 6:19–21.)
•
What can separate me from God’s love? (See Romans 8:38–39.)
•
Am I trusting in Jesus alone for my salvation? (See Romans 10:9–10.)
standing; If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; Then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.” What a privilege to study the rich truths of God’s Word, hide them in your heart, and apply them to daily life! These truths are priceless treasures, far above the value and beauty of rubies and diamonds. As you dig deeper into God’s Word, see Who He is, and allow Him to work in you, your life will be a radiant expression of His love. He will be glorified as His character is seen in you.
THE CHARACTER OF GOD We see examples of security in God’s character in the following ways: •
We can confidently structure our life around God Who is eternal. (See Psalm 90:2.)
•
God, our Refuge, is a “place” of security. (See Psalm 46:1.)
•
Jesus was not anxious in dangerous situations. (See Matthew 8:25–26.)
•
Jesus encouraged His disciples to have an eternal perspective. (See John 4:34–35.)
•
Secure in Who He was, Jesus freely ministered to others. (See John 13:3–5.)
•
In the midst of trials and hardships, Jesus promises peace. (See John 14:27.)
•
The Holy Spirit assures us that we are the children
SECURITY KEY VERSE “Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.” JOHN 6:27
of God. (See Romans 8:16–17.)
5
Security GEMs Read and discuss how you could apply each GEM. GEM is an acronym for “God Enables Me.” This phrase begins each of the ten statements that describe the change that results as we behold the Lord and yield to the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives. “But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory,
even as by the Spirit of the Lord” (II Corinthians 3:18). The four colored GEM statements will be the focus of the four character lessons in this booklet. Let’s read together the ten “God Enables Me” statements and take time to meditate on the Scriptures that help us understand these aspects of security from God’s Word.
God Enables Me to . . . Be assured of eternal life.
Correct unsafe conditions.
“And this is the promise that he hath promised us, even
“When thou buildest a new house, then thou shalt make a
eternal life.” I JOHN 2:25
battlement for thy roof, that thou bring not blood upon thine
Rely on Him for protection.
house, if any man fall from thence.” DEUTERONOMY 22:8
“The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer;
Stand on firm foundations.
my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler,
“Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of thy
and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower. I will call
righteous judgments endureth for ever.” PSALM 119:160
upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies.” PSALM 18:2–3
Replace fear with trust. “In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man
Rest in His provision. “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh
can do unto me.” PSALM 56:11
me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the
Withstand the storms of life.
still waters.” PSALM 23:1–2
“Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his
Invest my time in things that last.
house upon a rock: And the rain descended, and the floods
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth
came, and the winds blew, and beat upon that house; and it
and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and
fell not: for it was founded upon a rock.” MATTHEW 7:24–25
steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do
Trust Him with my future.
not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is,
“Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or,
there will your heart be also.” MATTHEW 6:19–21
What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
Beware of dependence on money for happiness.
(For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these
“Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.
things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righ-
Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches
teousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle
Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow
toward heaven.” PROVERBS 23:4–5
shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” MATTHEW 6:31–34
6
LESSON 1
GOD ENABLES ME TO
Rely on Him for Protection INTRODUCTION Some people trust in their nation’s military power. Others trust in the locks on their doors or intricate security systems. “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God” (Psalm 20:7). As children run to their parents who can protect them from many dangers, so you can run to Christ to protect you from evil. Jesus, in Matthew 6:13, instructed His disciples to pray for deliverance from evil. This teaching applies not only to the evil around us but also to the evil in our own hearts that leads to sin. God may even use the evil that happens to you to draw you to Himself. Rely on Him and you will have security which cannot be taken away, no matter what is happening in your life. Paul’s Security Despite Shipwreck
SECURITY Structuring my life around that which is eternal and cannot be destroyed or taken away
7
BIBLE STORY PAUL’S SECURITY DESPITE SHIPWRECK
P
aul’s life had been filled with travel. Now his
furniture, sails, cables, baggage—overboard. The sun,
three missionary journeys were over, and he
moon, and stars could not be seen. After two weeks
was a prisoner. Paul had been arrested by the Romans
and in the darkness of the storm, the sailors lost hope.
after being accused by Jews who were angry about
One night, an angel appeared to Paul and told him
his teaching. After preliminary trials, he was sent
that everyone on the ship would live! In the midst
by ship to Rome to stand before Caesar. While at
of this terrible storm, Paul was secure because he
sea, a terrible storm arose. The winds howled and
knew what God had said, and Paul trusted God. What
the waves crashed against the vessel. The frightened
would happen to the ship and all those on board?
seamen adjusted the sails in an effort to avoid the
Read today’s account of the violent wind, fearful
quicksands, and in extreme desperation they tried
sailors, and the confident prisoner who proclaimed
to lighten the ship’s load by throwing the tackling—
how he could be calm in a terror-filled time.
BIBLE STORY QUESTIONS Read Acts 27:6–44 together and discuss the following questions: 1. Where was the centurion sending Paul and the other prisoners? (See Acts 27:6.) Are you trusting that God has a good plan for your life?
Do you believe that God can be trusted and that His Word is true?
2. How did the weather change? (See Acts 27:13–14.)
6. What would be lost in the storm? (See Acts 27:22.)
A secure life is structured around eternal things. Insecurity arises when a life is based on things that change. What can change in your life that you should not structure your life around?
Your response to what you lost shows if your security was dependent on it. What have you lost? How did you respond?
3. After many days without sun or stars, would those on the ship know where they were located? Did the people think they would survive the storm? (See Acts 27:20.) What gives you hope when others are afraid? What gives you guidance when the way is unclear? 4. What message did Paul receive during the storm? (See Acts 27:23–24.) What Scripture promise helps you trust God through a dangerous or uncertain time?
8
5. What kept Paul from becoming anxious? (See Acts 27:25.)
7. What did everyone aboard the ship do that demonstrated they were extremely fearful? How did Paul encourage them? (See Acts 27:33–36.) Your life can affect many other people. How can you encourage others to put their trust in the Lord? 8. How many people were on the boat? How many were lost at sea? Did God fulfill His promise to protect everyone? (See Acts 27:37, 43–44.) When have you relied on the Lord for protection and found Him faithful?
LESSON 1
MEMORY VERSE PSALM 46:1
Play the game together to help the children commit Psalm 46:1 to memory. In the section “Doers of the Word,” have the children record how they will apply the verse to their lives.
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” PSALM 46:1
MEMORY VERSE GAME
DOERS OF THE WORD
Category Stand-ups
In the blank below, write how this verse could be
Call out a category. Some examples of categories would
Scripture,” or “pray for safety on the road,” or “write
be “everyone who is wearing red,” or “everyone who likes ice cream,” or “everyone who is older than 7 years old.” When the category is called, those who fit the description stand up and say the verse together. Continue to play until the verse is memorized, and everyone can say the verse without looking at it.
applied in your life, e.g., “memorize the promises in down answered prayers.” “Dear Lord, I yield to You and am willing to apply this verse. Help me to _______________ ________________________________________ ________________________________________. I ask that You would develop security in my life. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.” When the Lord gives you an opportunity to apply this verse, write it in your journal to later recall God’s working in your life.
9
ACTIVITY VOYAGE TRACKER
INTRODUCTION During this character quality study we are asking the Lord to develop security in our lives. What a privilege to respond to the work He is doing to change us into the image of His Son! Paul relied on God for protection in the midst of a life-threatening storm. Today we are going to mark the route by which the soldiers transported Paul from Caesarea to Rome. As Paul relied on God for protection on his journey, let us also rely on God for protection in our life’s journey.
Supplies:
Havens, and Melita.
•
Photocopy the ship on page 31
•
Photocopy the map on page 32
Using the template provided,
•
Markers, crayons, or colored pencils to color the map
make a little paper ship and tape
•
Scissors
it onto the end of your popsicle
•
Scotch tape
stick. (See picture.)
•
One popsicle stick per child
Instructions
Push your popsicle stick up through the slit so that you can see the ship. “Sail” your ship from Caesarea to
Color your map. Add a swirling dark storm cloud
Rome. Remember that you, too, can
under the Greek island of Crete where Paul was
rely on God for protection no matter
stranded when today’s Bible story took place. Cut
what “storms” arise during your “voyage”
slits along the dotted lines. To avoid one large slit
through life.
that falls open, leave paper connected at various
10
locations such as Myra, The Fair
Hymn History “The Solid Rock” Sing “The Solid Rock” and read about the security proclaimed by the hymn writer, Edward Mote. The sun was rising as people streamed up Holborn
Edward Mote understood the solid foundation and
Hill, heading to their places of employment. Among
security that Christ provides. Raised by unbelieving
them was thirty-four-year-old Edward Mote, the owner
parents, he had often been left to play with other
of a cabinetmaking shop. As he walked, words began
boys and do as he pleased. His teachers did not tell
to form in his mind. These words would become the
him about God. Mr. Mote’s youth was empty and
chorus to a new hymn:
aimless. When he was a sixteen-year-old woodwork-
On Christ the Solid Rock I stand, All other ground is sinking sand.
ing apprentice, his instructor took him to hear the famous preacher, John Hyatt. Two years later, the apprentice gave his life to Jesus and planted his feet on
At his shop, Mr. Mote instructed the workers and then
the Solid Rock forever. Sixteen years after his conver-
sequestered himself alone in his office. By the day’s end,
sion, Mr. Mote wrote the hymn that testified of the
he had written four verses of his new hymn!
security he experienced in Christ:
Soon afterward, Mr. Mote was invited to a friend’s home. The host shared how he and his wife usually sang
Edward Mote (1797–1874)
My hope is built on nothing less Than Jesus’ blood and righteousness; I dare not trust the sweetest frame, But wholly lean on Jesus’ Name.
a hymn, read Scripture, and
Eventually God called Mr. Mote, now a successful
then prayed together. How-
businessman, to the pastorate. He also penned over
ever, the hymnal had been
100 hymns. Mr. Mote’s life exemplified security as
misplaced, so Mr. Mote
he intentionally structured his life around God’s
volunteered, “I have some
work and invested in eternity. He once remarked,
verses in my pocket; if you
“The truths I have been preaching, I am now living
like, we could sing them.”
upon, and they do very well to die upon.” A tablet
The verses were the new
near the pulpit in the Horsham church sums up well
hymn crafted earlier that
the life he lived, secure in Jesus. It reads, “In loving
week in his work office. The host’s ill wife enjoyed the
memory of Mr. Edward Mote, who fell asleep in Jesus
words of the hymn so much that the man requested
November 13, 1874, aged 77 years. For 26 years the
Mr. Mote to leave a copy for her. Greatly encouraged,
beloved pastor of this church, preaching Christ and
he went home, “and by the fireside [I] composed the
Him crucified, as all the sinner can need, and all the
last two verses . . . and sent them to [her].”
saint can desire.”
Photo courtesy of www.hymntime.com/tch
23
Explaining Salvation to a Child Christ Our Righteousness Before reading to the children, write examples of sin (selfishness, mean words, lying, stealing, disobedience, rudeness, wrong thoughts, good actions without faith, etc.) on several sticky notes. You will also need a white bed sheet or bathrobe to represent Jesus’ robe of righteousness.
T
he Bible tells us about God. He is the Creator of the universe and is holy. God loves us and created us to have fellowship with Him. (See Revelation 4:11.) Select a child to stand and represent all people. Romans 3:23 says, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Sin is anything we think, say, or do that breaks God’s Law. Can you name some examples of sin?
If we accept His gift of salvation, God no longer sees our sin when He looks at us! Put the white sheet around the child. Now, when God looks at us, He instead sees the righteousness of Christ! Isaiah 61:10 describes what has happened this way: “My soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righ-
Now place the sticky notes with examples of sin onto his clothes.
teousness. . . .” In Romans 10:9–10, we are told how
Because God is holy, our sin separates us from having fellowship with Him. However, because God loves us so much, He sent His Son, Jesus, to take the punishment for our sin. Jesus died on the cross and rose again, conquering death! Now we can have fellowship with God. (See John 17:3.)
thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine
we can accept this gift: “That if thou shalt confess with heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Are you relying on the righteousness of Christ for your salvation? If so, your sins are forgiven and
In a Nutshell 1. God created all things (Colossians 1:16). God is holy (Leviticus 19:2). God loves us (John 3:16). 2. Our sin separates us from God (Romans 3:23). 3. God sent His Son, Jesus, to provide the way for our sins
His burial, and His glorious resurrection (I Corinthians 15:3–4). 4. We can do nothing to earn salvation. It is a free gift from God that we receive by faith (Ephesians 2:8–9). 5. We receive that gift of salvation
to be forgiven and for fellow-
by confessing with our mouth
ship with Him to be restored
that Jesus is Lord and believing
(Ephesians 1:6–7). Jesus accom-
in our heart that God has
plished our salvation through
raised Him from the dead
His crucifixion on the cross,
(Romans 10:9–10).
covered, and Christ is living in you! Just as the Apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 2:20, you can also say, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.” God gives us eternal life—sweet, constant fellowship in the Spirit with our Savior— and then His righteousness is seen in us for His glory. (See John 15:4–10.)
25
JOURNAL ENTRY Record how God gave your family opportunities to apply this character quality.
APPLICATION CHART Searching for the rich truths of God’s Word and applying them in your life is far more valuable than discovering rubies and diamonds. Add a check mark, sticker, or initials in a diamond each time God enables someone to apply security in one of the suggested ways. Let's set a goal and then celebrate, not only the accomplishment of applying God’s Word, but also our gratefulness for the work He is doing in our lives. Base a decision on God’s Word.
Spend time helping your family.
Wait for God to provide your needs.
Spend time memorizing Scripture.
Spend time helping an elderly person.
Remind yourself that God is in control.
Pray when you are afraid.
Tell someone what Jesus has done for you.
Ask God for safety.
26 26
Give money to someone in need.
LESSON 1: Paul’s Security Despite Shipwreck
“And now I exhort you to be of good cheer: for there shall be no loss of any man’s life among you, but of the ship. . . . Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me” (Acts 27:22, 25). 27