Seven-4-Seven

Seven-4-Seven

Contents: Click on the month you wish to read to go directly to it

September - pages 2-9 October - pages 10-17 November - pages 18-25 December - pages 26-33 January - pages 34-41 February - pages 42-49 March - pages 50-57 April - pages 58-65 May - pages 66-74 June - pages 75-82 July - pages 83-90 August - pages 91-99

Notes...

Seven-4-Seven

Bible Readings for Year 7’s

September:

New Beginnings

Sept

It’s September and undoubtedly you have just experienced some big changes in your life! The majority of you in year 7 will also be in a new school, and probably one that feels a million times bigger than the primary school you have just left!

This month’s Seven-4-Seven theme is ‘New Beginnings’. We’re going to look at seven Bible characters that experienced big changes their lives and had to start over in a brand new environment.

These people are: Joshua, Esther, Daniel, Ruth, David, Saul and Isaiah.

These guys will remind us that God has promised to always be with us, even if we are the youngest year group in the school, and that he has a special plan and a purpose for each one of us. We will be encouraged to stay strong in our faith and draw on God’s supernatural energy to keep us going when we feel too tired to get out of bed in the morning!

If you or your younger siblings have a children’s Bible story book, get it out and read about these characters again. Reading a story like this can really help you understand the Bible text in more detail….it will give you a birds eye view of the events happening to our character before and after the events where we find them in our Bible readings this month.

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven.

A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps! You may also like to use a journal to write down your thoughts, questions and feelings. Here’s one extra tip for this month….look at the ‘scribblestorm’ exercise on page 33 and 56 of Shelf Life…and use a couple of coloured pens / highlighters to underline or jot down your thoughts on the Bible passage for the day!

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Seven-4-Seven 1. New Beginnings:

Joshua

1 After Moses, the servant of the Lord, died, the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ assistant. 2 The Lord said, “My servant Moses is dead. Now you and all these people go across the Jordan River into the land I am giving to the Israelites. 3 I promised Moses I would give you this land, so I will give you every place you go in the land…Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forget you.

6 “Joshua, be strong and brave! Always remember what is written in the Book of the Teachings. Study it day and night to be sure to obey everything that is written there. If you do this, you will be wise and successful in everything. 9 Remember that I commanded you to be strong and brave. Don’t be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you everywhere you go.”

(New Century Version) Joshua 1:1-9

Joshua was on the brink of something new! Moses had been Joshua’s best friend, leader and mentor for many years but now he was dead.

Joshua had to continue the journey (and lead thousands of people) without Moses beside him. No wonder he was feeling fearful and anxious. He probably felt pretty sad as well, and maybe even a bit of excitement at all the new experiences that lay before him. This big mix up of emotions is all normal to feel when big changes happen in our lives, such as starting a new school. The verses above tell us what God said to Joshua to reassure him that everything was going to be ok!

What do you feel you have ‘left behind’ at primary school?

Write down some of the emotions that you have been feeling.

Have a go at memorising the last part of verse 3 ‘I will not leave you or forget.’ or verse 9 ‘Don’t be afraid, because the Lord your God will be with you everywhere you go’ Say these verses to yourself whenever you start to feel fearful, anxious or sad.

“Dear God, thank you that you promise to never leave me or forget about me, even in year 7! Thank you for all the exciting opportunities and experiences that await me! Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 2. New Beginnings:

Esther

13 Mordecai sent back this answer: Do not think that because you are in the king’s house you alone of all the Jews will escape. 14 For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance for the Jews will arise from another place, but you and your father’s family will perish.

And who knows but that you have come to royal position for such a time as this?

(NIV) Esther 4:13-14 If you want to read more go to the book of Esther, chapters 1-10!

Mordecai sent this message to his niece Esther when she found herself in a difficult and potentially dangerous situation. Months previously she had been forcibly removed from her normal life and chosen by King Xerxes over hundreds of other girls to become his new queen. This new life of hers was completely different from what she was used to.

Rather than being a dream come true it was a living nightmare. Esther must have been so confused….why would God have allowed all this to happen to her? But throughout Esther’s story we see that God is completely in control. God had a unique purpose for Esther, he needed her in the palace for an important reason. Esther’s obedience and brave actions actually saved the lives of all the Jews …and her name has gone down in history! God has a plan and a purpose for you being at your school too, ask him what it is!

Rewrite the highlighted part of the Bible passage substituting the name of your school…like this…..!

And who knows but that you have come to …………………………………………… for such a time as this?

Are you willing to obey God and be part of his plan for your school?

Tell God about how you feel and ask him what he would like you to do for him in your school.

Seven-4-Seven 3. New Beginnings:

Daniel

8 Daniel decided not to eat the king’s food or drink his wine because that would make him unclean……….12 Daniel said to the guard, “Please give us this test for ten days: Don’t give us anything but vegetables to eat and water to drink.13 After ten days compare how we look with how the other young men look who eat the king’s food. See for yourself and then decide how you want to treat us, your servants.” 14 So the guard agreed to test them for ten days.15 After ten days they looked healthier and better fed than all the young men who ate the king’s food……19 The king talked to them and found that none of the young men were as good as Daniel….

(New Century Version) Daniel 1:8- 19 Read more in Daniel 1:1 – 21 Daniel’s story starts in a very similar way to Esther’s. Daniel was also forcibly removed from his normal life when he was kidnapped and taken to work in King Nebuchadnezzar‘s palace. Life in the palace presented Daniel with many challenges, especially how to remain true and faithful to his God in a culture that did not honour God. Daniel was determined to continue to live his life pleasing and obeying God as he had always done, even in this new environment, and refusing to eat the King’s food was one way he showed this. (Read about how he also continued to pray when prayer was forbidden, and how God kept him alive in a den of lions, in Daniel 6!) Eventually the people around Daniel, including the King, came to respect him for his beliefs and even began to accept and worship God for themselves! You may come under many pressures to do things that you know do not please God or go against a Christian lifestyle. Daniel shows us that it is possible to make right choices and that people around us will ultimately respect us for staying true to what we believe in.

Download and play the ‘Daniel in the Lion’s Den’ game app on itunes!

Can you think of one thing that you may feel under pressure to do that you know would not be right for you as a Christian to join in with?

Determine now that you will not get involved in anything that goes against God and your Christian faith. Decide how you will handle the above situation when it comes up.

“Dear Lord, I truly want to live for you in my new environment. Please give me wisdom and courage to say no to anything that would displease you or hurt me. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 4. New Beginnings:

David

6 When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab, and Samuel thought, “Surely the Lord has appointed this person standing here before him.” 7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t look at how handsome Eliab is or how tall he is, because I have not chosen him. God does not see the same way people see. People look at the outside of a person, but the Lord looks at the heart.” ……

10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass by Samuel. But Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen any of these.”

11 Then he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?”

Jesse answered, “I still have the youngest son. He is out taking care of the sheep.”

Samuel said, “Send for him. We will not sit down to eat until he arrives.”

12 So Jesse sent and had his youngest son brought in. He was a fine boy, tanned, and handsome. The Lord said to Samuel, “Go, appoint him, because he is the one.”

13 So Samuel took the container of olive oil and poured it on Jesse’s youngest son to appoint him in front of his brothers.

From that day on, the Lord’s Spirit worked in David.

(New Century Version) 1Samuel 16:4 - 13 Read more in 1 Samuel 16:1-13 Samuel was a well known prophet – when he bought a message from God, people sat up and took notice! In this story God asked Samuel to go and anoint the person who he had chosen to become the new King of Israel. God tells Samuel to go to find a man called Jesse and choose one of his seven sons. Samuel’s reaction was to choose the oldest, most handsome of all of Jesse’s sons, but God said no. God’s choice was David, the youngest, most insignificant child in the family. David may have expected to be the last person in the family to be chosen by God to become the future King of Israel, he was probably used to being the last to be picked for anything with seven bigger, better looking brothers than him in the family! But David went on to become one of the greatest Kings of Israel ever! Even if you feel strangely small and insignificant in your new surroundings, God doesn’t overlook you. You can still make a contribution to the life of the school and you are still important in God’s eyes!

How does it make you feel to know that God values you even though you are the youngest in your school?

What special contribution do you think you could make in your new school?

Don’t let feelings of insignificance rule your day!

“Thank you God that even though I am one of the youngest in the school, I am still make important and valuable in your eyes!”

Seven-4-Seven 5. New Beginnings:

Ruth

16-17 But Ruth said, “Don’t force me to leave you; don’t make me go home. Where you go, I go; and where you live, I’ll live. Your people are my people, your God is my god; where you die, I’ll die, and that’s where I’ll be buried —not even death itself is going to come between us!” 18-19 When Naomi saw that Ruth had her heart set on going with her, she gave in. And so the two of them travelled on together to Bethlehem.

(The Message) Ruth 1:16-19 Read more in Ruth, chapters 1 - 4 Ruth and Naomi had experienced great tragedy and hardship which in turn bought about big changes in their lives. They were forced to leave Ruth’s home town of Moab, where they had lived for many years, and travel back to Naomi’s roots in Bethlehem. Naomi told Ruth not to come with her, but Ruth insisted. Together these two women helped each other through the difficulties of adapting to a new place and people.

Their friendship was strong; they advised, encouraged and supported each other. They reminded each other to trust in God when the going got tough, and they celebrated God’s blessings together. Good friends are very important when it comes to settling into a new environment, especially Christian friends who share the same faith and values that you do. Make an effort to seek out close Christian friends so you can encourage each other to stay true to God.

Fill in the spaces below with names of your friends who…..

Help me live as a Christian………………………… Don’t laugh at my beliefs…………………….

Make me smile when I feel down………………… Always have time for me………………………….

Help me at school…………………………………. I can pray together with……………………………..

Are you willing to obey God and be part of his plan for your school?

Tell God about how you feel and ask him what he would like you to do for him in your school.

Seven-4-Seven 6. New Beginnings:

Saul

In the meantime Saul kept up his violent threats of murder against the followers of the Lord….. 3 As Saul was coming near the city of Damascus, suddenly a light from the sky flashed around him.

4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul! Why do you persecute me?’ 5 ‘Who are you, Lord?’ he asked.

‘I am Jesus, whom you persecute,’ the voice said. 6 ‘But get up and go into the city, where you will be told what you must do.’

7 The men who were travelling with Saul had stopped, not saying a word; they heard the voice but could not see anyone. 8 Saul got up from the ground and opened his eyes, but could not see a thing. So they took him by the hand and led him into Damascus. 9 For three days he was not able to see, and during that time he did not eat or drink anything……..

17 So Ananias went, entered the house where Saul was, and placed his hands on him.

‘Brother Saul’, he said, ‘the Lord has sent me—Jesus himself, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here. He sent me so that you might see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.’

18 At once something like fish scales fell from Saul’s eyes and he was able to see again. He stood up and was baptized; 19 and after he had eaten, his strength came back. Saul stayed for a few days with the believers in Damascus. 20 He went straight to the synagogues and began to preach that Jesus was the Son of God. (Good News Translation) Acts 9:1-9; 17 - 20 Read more in Acts 9: 1 - 31 Saul found himself dramatically changed by a really powerful encounter with God. He went from being someone who passionately and murderously hated Christians, to accepting Jesus into his own life and then telling others all about him! This encounter removed all Saul’s doubts and turned his life around. He was filled with the Holy Spirit and became a powerful messenger for God – one of the most well known and successful early missionaries in the Bible! Saul’s story reminds us that we can all get a fresh start! And starting a new school is an ideal opportunity to put the past behind you, along with any mistakes, disappointments or worries, and begin again….perhaps even do some amazing things for God! What attitudes or behaviours would you like to leave behind as you make a fresh start in a new school?

Imagine yourself meeting with Jesus like Saul did.

Ask Jesus to transform you and help you make a fresh start! Ask for his Holy Spirit to fill you and help you become all that God made you to be!

Seven-4-Seven 7. New Beginnings:

Isaiah

28 Don’t you know? Haven’t you heard?

The Lord is the everlasting God; he created all the world.

He never grows tired or weary.

No one understands his thoughts.

29 He strengthens those who are weak and tired.

30 Even those who are young grow weak; young people can fall exhausted.

31 But those who trust in the Lord for help will find their strength renewed.

They will rise on wings like eagles; they will run and not get weary; they will walk and not grow weak.

(Good News Translation) Isaiah 40:28 - 31

The man who wrote these words was the prophet Isaiah. He lived around 700 years before Jesus was born. A prophet’s role was to bring God’s message to the people of the time. Often this was an unpopular job as it meant confronting people about their sin and urging them to change their ways. Not a message most people wanted to hear! The life of a prophet was hard work…lots of travelling, public speaking, meeting new people – some who accepted you and some who rejected you. An exhausting job, and perhaps that’s why Isaiah wrote these words about trusting in God for strength. Any new start, such as moving to a new school, can be extremely tiring - so many new people, places, rules and lessons to get used to. Maybe you even have to get out of bed earlier in the morning than ever before! Isaiah’s words tell us that we can ask and trust God to give us supernatural energy to tackle all the new challenges to the best of our ability!

Read more in Isaiah 6:1-13

Have a go at paraphrasing verse 31 - that means write it out in your own words.

Don’t change the meaning of the verse, simply use words that are more familiar to you.

(For more on paraphrasing see page 32 of Shelf Life.)

When you feel so tired that you don’t think you can make it out of bed in the morning….say these words to yourself and let the strength of God fill your body and mind!

Turn your paraphrase into a prayer and thank God for the energy that you need to get through today!

Seven-4-Seven October:

Being ME!

Oct

Sooner or later we all get round to asking ourselves the question “who am I?”! We want to know why we are here on the planet, why we are the way we are, and what we’ve got to offer to the world!

These are very important questions and it’s essential that each one of us finds a satisfactory answer for ourselves. Understanding these big questions help us become more secure, confident and happy people!

We can be completely ourselves, even in a new environment; we don’t have to pretend to be someone that we’re not. And who wouldn’t want to be a person like that!

The Bible has some very clear answers to these questions, and that is what this months Seven-4-Seven will be looking at. Each day will look at one truth in the Bible about who we are. As you read allow God to cement these truths deep inside your heart…that you are someone who is loved, chosen, known, beautifully created, forgiven, has a purpose, and unique gifts and abilities!

Understanding and believing these truths about who you are as a child of God will make it less important what other people think about you, and give you more freedom to be your beautiful self!

An extra idea!

How about putting a photo of yourself on the middle of a piece of paper. Stick it up on your wall and each day write around the photo the Bible verse or phrase that you will be reading. You could also scribble up your thoughts and prayers as well. At the end you will have a complete picture of ‘being me!’

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Notes...

Seven-4-Seven 1. Being ME!:

Someone Who is Loved

God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son so that whoever believes in him may not be lost, but have eternal life.

John 3:16 (NCV)

See how very much our Father loves us, for he calls us his children, and that is what we are!

1 John 3:1 (NLT)

Can you imagine ever loving someone else so much that you would be willing to die in their place to ensure they could continue to live? The Bible says that this is the biggest kind of love imaginable (John15:13).

Well, that’s exactly what God did for you! He allowed his son Jesus – part of himself – to die for you on the cross so that you could have the best life possible! God loves you so much; you are a beloved son or daughter of his. He is crazy about you!

You Are Loved!

God’s love for you is unconditional?

What do you think this means?

(Go ask someone if you’re not sure!)

When you really understand God’s love for you, it doesn’t matter so much what everyone else things about you!

“Thank you God that you love me so much - more than anyone else on the planet!”

Seven-4-Seven 2. Being ME!:

Someone Who Is Chosen

Before I made you in your mother’s womb, I chose you.

Before you were born, I set you apart for a special work Jeremiah 1:5 (NCV)

Have you ever experienced that age old embarrassment of being picked last for a sports team or group? Feels horrible, doesn’t it? You wish the ground would open up and swallow you rather than hear the groans of your fellow team mates when they realise you’re going to have to be on their side! Or what about that sinking feeling when you realised that you hadn’t made the school sports team you tried out for, or won the art prize you worked so hard for? Well, listen up….God didn’t groan when you made the decision to be on his side! And he hasn’t left you out! In fact, God had chosen you right at the start, from before you were even born, to be his special child! He knows who you are, sees your potential, and wants you right there alongside him every day!

You Are Chosen!

Think about X-factor, Britain’s Got Talent and

other TV shows like that. Can you remember how

people reacted when they got ‘chosen’ - when they made it through to the next round?

Shout, laugh, cry, sink down onto your knees, scream or hug someone (like they do on X-Factor!) as you thank God for choosing you!

factor

Seven-4-Seven 3. Being ME!:

Someone Who Is Beautifully Created

13 You made my whole being; you formed me in my mother’s body.

14 I praise you because you made me in an amazing and wonderful way.

What you have done is wonderful.

I know this very well.

15 You saw my bones being formed as I took shape in my mother’s body.

When I was put together there, 16 you saw my body as it was formed.

All the days planned for me were written in your book before I was one day old.

Psalm 139:13 – 16 (NCV)

In Septmeber 2010 Bruno Mars released a single called ‘Just The Way You Are.’ The lyrics of the chorus are: “When I see your face, there’s not a thing that I would change Cos you’re amazing, just the way you are!”

This single became the third biggest seller of the year and, in January 2011, it was the ninth most downloaded song of all time in the UK. There must be lots of us out there who want someone to tell us we’re amazing! Look again at the Bible passage above. The two words used to describe you in this Bible passage are…….

AMAZING and WONDERFUL!!!

Take a photo of yourself on your phone……or find a photo of yourself…then write/tag on the photo the words ‘I am made in an amazing and wonderful way’!

No expense was spared when God designed you and watched over you as you grew! You have been made just the way that God intended! These two words may not be the ones that you most readily use when asked to describe yourself….perhaps words like ‘ugly’, ‘useless’, ‘rubbish’, ‘stupid’, ‘too fat’, ‘too tall’, ‘too short’ or ‘too skinny’ spring to mind.

It’s all too easy to compare yourself to the world’s unrealistic standards of what you should look like…and most people will never make it to supermodel / sports personality level! But in God’s eyes you are perfect.

You are amazing and wonderful, you are exactly the way God intended you to be….so be loud and proud of who you are!

You Are Beautifully Created!

Put this somewhere you will regularly see it and remind yourself often that you are amazingly and wonderfully made!

Read the Bible passage below out loud as a prayer to God…something like this…“God I thank you that you made my whole being. Thank you for making me in an amazing and wonderful way!...”

Seven-4-Seven 4. Being ME!:

Someone Who Is Forgiven

But if we confess our sins to God, he will keep his promise and do what is right: he will forgive us our sins and purify us from all our wrongdoing.

So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:1 (NLT)

1 John 1:9 (GNT)

Take a look at this picture. How do you think this person feels weighed down by such a heavy load?

Notes...

We’re all going to mess up at sometime or another, whether it’s letting down our parents, hurting our younger brother/sister, making a wrong decision at school, knowing we’ve displeased God in some way. Carrying around the guilt and shame that results from our ‘sin’ can feel just like this person. Heaviness, uncomfortableness, maybe even pain. But, remember back to day 1 this month? The Bible passage told us how Jesus died for us on the cross… taking the blame for our wrong actions.

If we come to Jesus we can receive complete forgiveness for our wrong thoughts and actions, and be given a clean slate to start again. Amazing!

Of course, we must also ensure that we have forgiven other people for the hurts they have done to us too….just has Jesus has forgiven us!

You Are Forgiven!

Write or draw on the picture above anything that you wish to ask God to forgive you for.

Now pray and ask God for his forgiveness. Imagine yourself putting down the heavy load of guilt. Thank Jesus for taking it away on the cross.

Put right any friendships that may have gone wrong due to unforgiveness…TODAY!

Seven-4-Seven 5. Being ME!:

Someone Who Has A Purpose

I say this because I know what I am planning for you, says the Lord, I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future.

1 John 1:9 (GNT)

You may have already been asked at school what you want to be when you ‘grow up’!! In a couple of years you’ll have to choose the right subjects to get you on the right path towards that chosen career. It can be confusing and complicated, and you may worry that one wrong choice now might scupper your whole chances in life! But this verse tells us that God is in control of our future……and what he has got in mind will be way better than anything we could dream up for ourselves! So relax, follow God’s lead, and walk with him into the good future that he has planned for you!

I say this because I know what I am planning for ………………., says the Lord, I have good plans for …………., not plans to hurt………... I will give …………… hope and a good future.

Jeremiah 29: 11 (NCV)

God spoke these word through the prophet Jeremiah to the Jews after they had been captured and taken to Babylon. What do you think these words would have meant to people in that situation?

Notes...

How do these words encourage you?

Notes...

Thank you God that whatever situation I am in I can take encouragement by remembering that you are in control. Please help me to always ask you before making any decisions about my future because I want your best plans for me to come true! Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 6. Being ME!:

Someone With Unique Gifts and Abilities

God has also given each of us different gifts to use. If we can prophesy, we should do it according to the amount of faith we have. 7If we can serve others, we should serve. If we can teach, we should teach. 8If we can encourage others, we should encourage them. If we can give, we should be generous. If we are leaders, we should do our best. If we are good to others, we should do it cheerfully.

Romans 12:6-8 (CEV)

Each of you has been blessed with one of God’s many wonderful gifts to be used in the service of others. So use your gift well.

1 Peter 4:10 (CEV)

Look around your class mates and you’ll probably see someone who is good at art, another who excels in sport, someone else who can do maths equations with their eyes shut! Perhaps you see someone else who is always cheerful, with a ready smile and a kind word for everyone!

We are all different, and, in line with God’s plan for our lives, he has given each of us different talents and abilities. You may know already the main thing that you excel at and enjoy doing. But if you don’t, that’s OK. Now is the time to experience lots of different things, to see which ones excite you and make you happy. Discover what you feel passionate about or where you can make a difference. You see, God has given us gifts and abilities so we can serve others, as well as give part of ourselves back to Him. Be thankful and content with the unique you! You Are Someone With Unique Gifts and Abilities.

What gifts and / or abilities do you feel God has given you?

Notes...

(ask someone if you’re not sure!)

How can you use these gifts / abilities Notes...

to help others and to serve God?

“Thank you God for my special gift and abilities of …………………………………… I really want to use these gifts to help others and serve you. Please show me how, Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 7. Being ME!:

Someone Who Is Known

1 You have looked deep into my heart, LORD, and you know all about me.

2 You know when I am resting or when I am working, and from heaven you discover my thoughts.

3 You notice everything I do and everywhere I go.

4 Before I even speak a word, you know what I will say, 5 and with your powerful arm you protect me from every side.

Psalm 139: 1-5 (CEV)

29 Two sparrows cost only a penny, but not even one of them can die without your Father’s knowing it.

30 God even knows how many hairs are on your head.

31 So don’t be afraid. You are worth much more than many sparrows.

Psalm 139: 1-5 (CEV)

‘You just don’t understand!’ How many times have you said that to your parents or friends?! You get frustrated because they just don’t seem to get what you’re feeling or thinking. But God does understand! He gets you! He really does know you! He knows thoughts, feelings and actions – good and bad! He even knows how many hairs you have on your head! Amazing!

You Are Known!

Try counting how many hairs are on your head……that’s got to be impossible!

When you feel like no-one really gets you or understands…turn to God and talk to him about it instead!

“Dear God, thank you that really know me, inside out. You know my thoughts, feelings and actions. And you understand me. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven November:

Me, My Mates and God

Nov

Friends, friends , friends……..!

It’s possible the last couple of months have been all about friends!

Friends will be so important in your school life, and having good friends around you is key to how well you settle in and enjoy your new school. If you have found it difficult to make friends then it’s possible you may be feeling a bit down in the dumps about the change to secondary school.

But don’t panic, this month’s Seven-4-Seven is all about friendship: ‘Me, My Mates and God’!

The Bible has heaps of good stuff to say about friendships; advice on how to be a good mate, who to choose for friends, how to care for people and of course, all about knowing Jesus as our friend! Of course, you don’t only have to have friends who are Christians, but it is important to have some friends who share the same values and beliefs as you… that way you can support, encourage and pray for each other as you try to follow Jesus day by day.

One key principle is that if you want to have lots of mates – you need to be a good mate! This months Seven-4-Seven will give you loads of little tips on how to be a good mate to those around you. Try them out each day, and see how your friends react and how your friendships change!

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven.

A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps! You may also like to use a journal to write down your thoughts, questions and feelings….and perhaps keep track of how your friendships are changing and growing as you become a better friend!

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Notes...

Seven-4-Seven 1. Me, My Mates

and God: Mates Matter!

9 Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. 10 If one person falls, the other can reach out and help.

But someone who falls alone is in real trouble. 11 Likewise, two people lying close together can keep each other warm. But how can one be warm alone? 12 A person standing alone can be attacked and defeated, but two can stand back-to-back and conquer. Three are even better, for a triple-braided cord is not easily broken.

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12. (NLT)

“You’ve got a friend in me...You’ve got a friend in me!”

All together now…!!!

“You’ve got troubles, well I’ve got ‘em too, There isn’t anything I wouldn’t do for you!

We stick together and we see it through, cos You’ve got a friend in me…

You’ve got a friend in me!”

Remember those two friends Buzz and Woody? What adventures they had together! They really illustrate how ‘two are better than one’! The above Bible verses, from a little book called Ecclesiastes, are telling us how important it is to have friends! Friends are for fun and laughter, help and encouragement, friends help you feel good about yourself and knock off those rough edges! Christian friends are especially important as you can stick together and pray with each other as you live life for Jesus in your school.

Write down the names of as many of your friends as you can think of. Make your writing bigger for your closest friends, getting smaller for those who you are less close to!

Notes...

Make a new friend today and add him / her to your list above!

“Dear God, thank you for the amazing bunch of friends that you have given me. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 2. Me, My Mates

and God: Mate’s Traits!

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonour others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.

1 Corinthians 13:4 – 8 (NIV)

Let’s try re-writing these verses relating to a good friend:

A good friend is kind and patient,

never jealous, boastful, proud, or rude.

A good friend isn’t selfish or quick tempered.

She / he doesn’t keep a record of wrongs that others do.

A good friend rejoices in the truth, but not in evil.

A good friend is always supportive, loyal, hopeful, and trusting.

A good friend is a friend to the end!

Rate your self on the following qualities of friendship (be honest…noone else is going to see this!)

1 = I’m always like this; 2 = I’m sometimes like this; 3 = I need to work on being more like this!

Kind

1

2

3

Keep my temper

1

2

3

Patient

1

2

3

Loyal

1

2

3

Don’t get jealous

1

2

3

Forgiving

1

2

3

Not rude

1

2

3

Supportive

1

2

3

Don’t boast about stuff

1

2

3

Encouraging

1

2

3

Generous, not selfish

1

2

3

Trusting

1

2

3

Don’t gossip

1

2

3

Trustworthy

1

2

3

Which quality or qualities did you rate as 3?! Pick one of these and work on it today! E.g. if you put 3 on generous…make an effort to be really generous to one of your friends today!

“Dear God, thank you for the qualities of a good friend that you have put in me, Please help me with my weaknesses. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 3. Me, My Mates

and God: David and Jonathan

1David and Saul finished talking, and soon David and Jonathan became best friends. Jonathan thought as much of David as he did of himself. 2From that time on, Saul kept David in his service and would not let David go back to his own family. 3Jonathan liked David so much that they promised to always be loyal friends.

4Jonathan took off the robe that he was wearing and gave it to David. He also gave him his military clothes, his sword, his bow and arrows, and his belt.

1 Samuel 18:1 -4 (CEV) 1One day, Saul told his son Jonathan and his officers to kill David.

But Jonathan liked David a lot, 2-3and he warned David, “My father is trying to have you killed, so be very careful. Hide in a field tomorrow morning, and I’ll bring him there. Then I’ll talk to him about you, and if I find out anything, I’ll let you know.”

1 Samuel 19:1-3 (CEV) Jonathan said to David, “Go in peace, for we have sworn friendship with each other in the name of the Lord, saying, ‘The Lord is witness between you and me, and between your descendants and my descendants forever.’”

1 Samuel 20:42 (NIV)

Do you have a friendship like David and Jonathan?

Write the name of your friend here.

Jonathan was the son of King Saul. David was an unknown shepherd boy who had, with God’s help, defeated Goliath and got King Saul out of a very sticky situation. Jonathan and David became really good friends, perhaps because they shared much in common in the areas of courage, bravery, strength, loyalty, trust and faith in God. David and Jonathan based their friendship on commitment to God, not just each other. They promised each other that no matter what happened, they would remain friends and their descendents would always be friends.

When Saul began to threaten David and try to kill him, Jonathan spoke up for David and tried to protect him, sometimes at risk to his own life.

Jonathan remained loyal to David even when he realised that David, and not he, would be the next King (I Samuel 23). They could have been enemies and rivals yet they set aside jealousy, resentment, bitterness, and competition. They knew how to laugh together, cry and show their emotions together, and share hopes and dreams. They were willing to lay down their lives for one another. Even after the death of Jonathan, David kept his promise to show kindness to his friend. He searched out Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth, and provided for him the rest of his life.

Pray and thank God for the friend whose name you have written above.

(If you haven’t written a name, ask God to bring you a close friend soon!)

Seven-4-Seven 4. Me, My Mates

and God: Friendship Proverbs

You will keep your friends if you forgive them, but you will lose your friends if you keep talking about what they did wrong.

Proverbs 17:9 (CEV)

Giving an honest answer is a sign of true friendship.

Proverbs 24:26 (CEV) Don’t be jealous of crooks or want to be their friends.

Proverbs 24:1 (CEV) Kind words are like honey- they cheer you up and make you feel strong.

Proverbs 16:24 (CEV)

The sweet smell of incense can make you feel good, but true friendship is better still.

Proverbs 27:9 (CEV)

Some friends don’t help, but a true friend is closer than your own family.

Proverbs 18:24 (CEV) Gossip is no good!

It causes hard feelings and comes between friends.

Proverbs 16:28 (CEV) Wise friends make you wise, but you hurt yourself by going around with fools Proverbs 13:20 (CEV) Proverbs is a book in the Bible written by the wisest man that ever lived – King Solomon! The book of Proverbs gives us wise guidance for living a godly life, mainly in the form of short statements, known as Proverbs!

Proverbs cover a wide range of different topics, from family life, self discipline, to relationships and money management! A person who follows the advice in Proverbs will stick close to God and live a holy lifestyle!

Circle the Proverb above which you think applies to you and your friendships the most at the moment.

Now rewrite it in your own words…making it personal to you e.g. Proverbs17:9 ‘I must stop holding against Ben those horrible things he said to me now that he has apologised.’

Notes...

Now pray and ask God for his forgiveness. Imagine yourself putting down the heavy load of guilt. Thank Jesus for taking it away on the cross.

Seven-4-Seven 5. Me, My Mates

and God: Barnabus

26When Saul arrived in Jerusalem, he tried to join the followers.

But they were all afraid of him, because they did not believe he was a true follower. 27Then Barnabas helped him by taking him to the apostles. He explained how Saul had seen the Lord and how the Lord had spoken to him. Barnabas also said that when Saul was in Damascus, he had spoken bravely in the name of Jesus.

Acts 9:26-27

Any of us would be fortunate to have Barnabus as a friend. Barnabus means Son of Encouragement. Whenever we read about Barnabus in the New Testament he is always encouraging others. Although we don’t hear of Barnabas doing great miracles or giving powerful sermons, he nevertheless remains one of the most important figures of this time in the early church, mainly because of his support of Saul. Saul (also called Paul) was a devout Jew who at the time was doing everything he could to wipe out this new movement of Christianity. The Bible says that he went everywhere, dragging Christian men and women out of their homes and throwing them into prison (Acts 8:3). In the Bible passage above we read how the Christians were still afraid of Saul and were suspicious of his motives when they heard he too had become a Christian. They didn’t believe that he had truly changed his ways. However, Barnabus befriended him and was the person who spoke up for Saul and enabled him to become part of this new church. They became firm friends and went on many successful missionary journeys together. Paul became one of the most well known and successful early missionaries in the Bible! Some people say that had there been no Paul, there would be no Christianity! And maybe, had there been no encouraging Barnabus, there would have been no Paul!

The best encouragement comes from a person who encourages you – someone who comes alongside like a pacemaker to keep you running on time, or a team mate in a competitive sport, or a good friend when you feel alone. What sort of things do encouragers say?

Think of a friend who could do with some encouragement today. Then think of a way to encourage them and do it…e.g. send a text; buy a little gift; say some kind words; offer some practical help.

Pray and ask God to help you be an encourager amongst your friends.

Seven-4-Seven 6. Me, My Mates

and God: Real Friends, Virtual Friends friends.

Love from the centre of who you are; don’t fake it……… Be good friends who love deeply; practice playing second fiddle. Laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy; share tears when they’re down. Get along with each other; don’t be stuck-up.

Make friends with nobodies; don’t be the great somebody. Don’t hit back; discover beauty in everyone. If you’ve got it in you, get along with everybody.

Romans 12:9-19

Facebook friends, Twitter followers, Phone contacts…….These days we can make ‘friends’ without ever even meeting them! Technology has definitely changed our social relationships, we can keep in touch with each other through so many different ways. But sometimes this means we spend more time ‘talking’ with people via computer or texts than we spend with them face to face! This can make it harder for us to pick up cues as to whether someone is happy or sad as we can’t tune into their non-verbal signals; things like their facial expression, their body posture, the way they say something. It’s easier to be a fake mate this way too! If you want to be a genuine caring friend who is able to “laugh with your happy friends when they’re happy and share tears when they’re down,” be sure to spend lots of time actually with your mates in person and take care how much technology runs your friendships!

Do you think technology improves friendship?

Detracts from it? Does it do both?

Notes...

Look out for a mate who seems down today. Ask them what you can do to help.

Look out for a mate who seems happy today. Share their excitement with them!

Call someone up and speak to them instead of texting!

“Dear God, help me to be a friend who notices how people are feeling.

Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 7. Me, My Mates

and God: The Greatest Friend

“This is my command: Love each other as I have loved you. The greatest love a person can show is to die for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know what his master is doing. But I call you friends, because I have made known to you everything I heard from my Father. You did not choose me; I chose you. And I gave you this work: to go and produce fruit, fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you anything you ask for in my name. This is my command: Love each other.”.

John 15: 12 – 17 (NCV)

In this Bible passage Jesus is telling his disciples that the greatest love comes from someone who would lay down his life for his friends. Of course, He was referring to himself as he was going to die for us. He tells his disciples if they follow His commands, they are his friends.

Do you ever think of Jesus as your friend? We praise Jesus, worship him, and serve him, but Jesus also wants a friendship with each of us. Jesus is the best of everything we look for in a friend. He accepts us for who we are; loves us unconditionally; is always there; gives us encouragements and strength…and has literally laid down his life for us!

Can you remember any of Jesus’ friends in the Bible? In what ways did Jesus show himself to be a good friend?

Remember as you go about your daily actvities today that your best friend Jesus is always close beside you!

Complete the following prayer in your own words:

“Lord Jesus, thank you that you are my best friend. Thank you that...

Notes...

Help me to remember to turn to you whenever I need a friend. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven December:

Seven Bible Stories You’ve Probably Never Heard!

Daniel in the Lion’s Den? Heard that…

David and Goliath? Know them…

Noah and the Ark? Yes, it rained…

But have you heard the story of the baby nearly sliced in half? Or the dead bones becoming an army? Or what about the talking donkey?!!

You haven’t?

Dec

Yes, these stories really are in the Bible…in fact, it’s jam packed with eccentric characters, odd incidents, and many bizarre happenings that you’d be surprised to find in Scripture! But each is included in the Bible for a reason. So in this month’s Seven-4-Seven we’re going to read seven of the more unusual stories that you may not have heard in Sunday School!

•

A Talking Donkey!

•

The Mystery of the Writing on the Wall!

•

Walking Bones!

•

Split the Baby!

•

Chariots of Fire!

•

Rhoda’s Surprise!

•

Sleeping Death!

As you read you may be astonished; perhaps a little bewildered……You may gasp or even laugh out loud! It will definitely be fun…and we hope that from each crazy story you can find some inspiration and encouragement to continue to live as a disciple of Jesus day by day!

You will find that this month there is more Bible text to read than usual. This is because we are reading whole stories rather than individual verses. Some of the names of the people and places may be difficult to read, like Eutychus or King Belshazzar! Don’t worry too much about getting the pronunciation exactly right… it’s more important to understand the story! Allow yourself plenty of time to read the Bible text, and maybe even read it through a couple of times. Don’t forget that these stories are deliberately rather unusual and not what you may be expecting! If you struggle perhaps you could ask someone to read it with you!

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven. A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps!

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Seven-4-Seven 1. Seven Bible Stories

You’ve Probably Never Heard!: A Talking Donkey!

Balaam was a very clever and important man. He was well known for his effective curses and blessings. He believed in God, but also encouraged the worship of other gods. King Balak of Moab sent messengers to fetch Balaam to help him to curse his enemies, the Israelites, who had set up camp nearby. But Balaam wasn’t able to discern God’s will. He just didn’t see what God was trying to say to him. Instead the humble donkey saw what God wanted to happen; he saw the angel and kept faith with God’s will even when he was being beaten, and he effectively saved Balaam’s life! Then of course finally Balaam’s eyes are opened, and he too listens to God’s word. And to King Balak’s dismay, Balaam blesses the Israelites instead of cursing them!

21So Balaam got up the next morning and saddled his donkey, then left with the Moabite officials. 22Balaam was riding his donkey to Moab, and two of his servants were with him. But God was angry that Balaam had gone, so one of the Lord’s angels stood in the road to stop him. 23When Balaam’s donkey saw the angel standing there with a sword, it walked off the road and into an open field.

Balaam had to beat the donkey to get it back on the road.

24Then the angel stood between two vineyards, in a narrow path with a stone wall on each side. 25When the donkey saw the angel, it walked so close to one of the walls that Balaam’s foot scraped against the wall. Balaam beat the donkey again.

26The angel moved once more and stood in a spot so narrow that there was no room for the donkey to go around. 27So it just lay down. Balaam lost his temper, then picked up a stick and smacked the donkey.

28When that happened, the Lord told the donkey to speak, and it asked Balaam, “What have I done to you that made you beat me three times?” 29” You made me look stupid!” Balaam answered.

“If I had a sword, I’d kill you here and now!”

30” But you’re my owner,” replied the donkey,” and you’ve ridden me many times. Have I ever done anything like this before?”

“No,” Balaam admitted.

31Just then, the Lord let Balaam see the angel standing in the road, holding a sword, and Balaam bowed down.

32The angel said, “You had no right to treat your donkey like that! I was the one who blocked your way, because I don’t think you should go to Moab. 33If your donkey had not seen me and stopped those three times, I would have killed you and let the donkey live.”

34Balaam replied, “I was wrong. I didn’t know you were trying to stop me. If you don’t think I should go, I’ll return home right now.”

35” It’s all right for you to go,” the Lord’s angel answered. “But you must say only what I tell you.” So Balaam went on with Balak’s officials.

Numbers 22: 21 – 34 (CEV)

Why wasn’t Balaam surprised when his donkey spoke to him?!

The donkey saved Balaam’s life, but made him look foolish in the process.

His pride was hurt so he lashed out. How do you respond when you feel embarrassed in front of others, or if someone corrects you with your best interest at heart?

‘Thank you God for the people who look out for me and who help me get to know you better. Amen.’

Seven-4-Seven 2. Seven Bible Stories

You’ve Probably Never Heard!: The Mystery of the Writing on the Wall!

Yes, this is the same Daniel from the Lions Den’! King Belshazzar decided to have a great feast to celebrate just how wonderful he was. He invited a thousand of all the most important people in Babylon. It must have been a wild party.

King Belshazzar began drinking wine.

He drank too much wine, and he lost all his sense. He brought out the sacred goblets and cups of gold and silver that his father had taken from God’s temple in Jerusalem. He and his guests drank wine from them with no thought at all that these were God’s holy vessels. Right then, in the middle of King Belshazzar’s wild party, a human hand appeared out of nowhere. It wasn’t attached to a body.

And it began to write on the wall of the royal banquet hall! The party was over… and so was the reign of Belshazzar!

1 King Belshazzar gave a big banquet for a thousand royal guests and drank wine with them.2 As Belshazzar was drinking his wine, he gave orders to bring the gold and silver cups that his ancestor Nebuchadnezzar had taken from the Temple in Jerusalem. This was so the king, his royal guests, his wives, and his slave women could drink from those cups. …..4 As they were drinking, they praised their gods, which were made from gold, silver, bronze, iron, wood, and stone. 5 Suddenly the fingers of a person’s hand appeared and began writing on the plaster of the wall, near the lampstand in the royal palace. The king watched the hand as it wrote. 6 King Belshazzar was very frightened. His face turned white, his knees knocked together, and he could not stand up because his legs were too weak.7 The king called for the magicians, wise men, and wizards of Babylon and said to them, “Anyone who can read this writing and explain it will receive purple clothes fit for a king and a gold chain around his neck. And I will make that person the third highest ruler in the kingdom.”

Then all the king’s wise men came in, but they could not read the writing or tell the king what it meant.9 King Belshazzar became even more afraid, and his face became even whiter. His royal guests were confused.

13 So they brought Daniel to the king……17Then Daniel answered the king, “You may keep your gifts for yourself, or you may give those rewards to someone else. But I will read the writing on the wall for you and will explain to you what it means…..”

27These are the words that were written on the wall: ‘Mene, mene, tekel, and parsin.’

26 “This is what the words mean: Mene: God has counted the days until your kingdom will end.27 Tekel: You have been weighed on the scales and found not good enough.28 Parsin: Your kingdom is being divided and will be given to the Medes and the Persians.”

29 Then Belshazzar gave an order for Daniel to be dressed in purple clothes and to have a gold chain put around his neck. And it was announced that Daniel was the third highest ruler in the kingdom.

30 That very same night Belshazzar, king of the Babylonian people, was killed.

Daniel 5: 1-31

(NCV)

Why wasn’t Daniel interested in the reward that King Belshazzar offered?

Whatever was thrown at Daniel he always remained faithful to God and used the gifts that God had given him in the best possible way. Do you?

“Thank you God for the gifts, talents and abilities that you have given me. Please help me to use them in the way that you would want me to in the situations I am in every day. Amen” Ever heard someone say the phrase, “The writing is on the wall.”? What they mean is that it looks like whatever is happening is about to come to an end, and there is nothing anyone can do to stop it. It comes from this Bible story!

Seven-4-Seven 3. Seven Bible Stories

You’ve Probably Never Heard!: Walking Bones

It is clear from what the Bible says that this passage is a vision given to Ezekiel by God, not an actual event. But it is a vision within a historical context, and Ezekiel needed to have that vision before he could hear God’s message for his people, the Israelites. You see, the Israelites were in a bad situation, some of them were in captivity, the rest were scattered far and wide to escape the persecution. Their home land was destroyed and taken over by other nations. It all looked hopeless and the Israelites felt abandoned

by God, perhaps with no hope of rescue, no future, no home. The dry bones in Ezekiel’s vision were a picture of God’s people in this current situation. “Our bones are dried up and our hope is gone: we are cut off.” But then Ezekiel saw God raise a vast army from a heap of bones, and he heard God speak clearly. Ezekiel understood through this vision that God is still at work, calling his people back to himself, breathing new life into dry and dead situations that feel like a heap of dry bones.

1Some time later, I felt the Lord’s power take control of me, and his Spirit carried me to a valley full of bones. 2The Lord showed me all around, and everywhere I looked I saw bones that were dried out. 3He said, “Ezekiel, son of man, can these bones come back to life?”

I replied, “Lord God, only you can answer that.”

4He then told me to say: Dry bones, listen to what the Lord is saying to you, 5”I, the Lord God, will put breath in you, and once again you will live. 6I will wrap you with muscles and skin and breathe life into you. Then you will know that I am the Lord.”

7I did what the Lord said, but before I finished speaking, I heard a rattling noise. The bones were coming together! 8I saw muscles and skin cover the bones, but they had no life in them.

9The Lord said: Ezekiel, now say to the wind, “The Lord God commands you to blow from every direction and to breathe life into these dead bodies, so they can live again.” 10As soon as I said this, the wind blew among the bodies, and they came back to life!

They all stood up and there were enough to make a large army.

11The Lord said: Ezekiel, the people of Israel are like dead bones.

They complain that they are dried up and that they have no hope for the future. 12So tell them, “I, the Lord God, promise to open your graves and set you free. I will bring you back to Israel, 13and when that happens, you will realize that I am the Lord. 14My Spirit will give you breath, and you will live again. I will bring you home, and you will know that I have kept my promise. I, the Lord, have spoken.”

Ezekiel 37:1-14 (CEV)

Whatever was thrown at Daniel he always remained faithful to God and used the gifts that God had given him in the best possible way. Do you?

Are there any areas in your life that feel like a heap of dry bones?

Notes...

Ask God to breathe his new life into situations where you need fresh hope and energy!

Ever heard someone say the phrase, “The writing is on the wall.”? What they mean is that it looks like whatever is happening is about to come to an end, and there is nothing anyone can do to stop it. It comes from this Bible story!

Seven-4-Seven

Bible Readings for Year 7’s

4. Seven Bible Stories

You’ve Probably Never Heard!: Split the Baby!

At the beginning of his reign as the king of Israel God said to Solomon ‘Ask for whatever you want me to give you.’

Solomon asked for great wisdom in order to lead well and to make right decisions.

Ever since then King Solomon became known as the wisest man who ever lived!

People from surrounding nations also came to hear Solomon’s wisdom. He composed 3,000 proverbs and 1,005 songs. He wrote the Song of Songs, the Book of Proverbs and Ecclesiastes.

The story above is a classic example of his wisdom, illustrating that God had answered his prayer. God was so pleased that Solomon asked for wisdom, rather than wealth, fame or popularity that he also blessed Solomon with riches, health and a long life as well!

16One day two women came to King Solomon, 17and one of them said: Your Majesty, this woman and I live in the same house.

Not long ago my baby was born at home, 18and three days later her baby was born. Nobody else was there with us.

19One night while we were all asleep, she rolled over on her baby, and he died. 20Then while I was still asleep, she got up and took my son out of my bed. She put him in her bed, then she put her dead baby next to me. 21In the morning when I got up to feed my son, I saw that he was dead. But when I looked at him in the light, I knew he wasn’t my son.

22”No!” the other woman shouted. “He was your son. My baby is alive!” “The dead baby is yours,” the first woman yelled. “Mine is alive!” They argued back and forth in front of Solomon, 23until finally he said, “Both of you say this live baby is yours. 24Someone bring me a sword.”

A sword was brought, and Solomon ordered, 25”Cut the baby in half! That way each of you can have part of him.” 26”Please don’t kill my son,” the baby’s mother screamed. “Your Majesty, I love him very much, but give him to her. Just don’t kill him.” The other woman shouted, “Go ahead and cut him in half. Then neither of us will have the baby.”

27Solomon said, “Don’t kill the baby.” Then he pointed to the first woman, “She is his real mother. Give the baby to her.”

28Everyone in Israel was amazed when they heard how Solomon had made his decision. They realized that God had given him wisdom to judge fairly.

1 Kings 3: 16-28 (CEV)

How did King Solomon know that the first woman was the baby’s real mother?

Notes...

Do you need wisdom to make an important decision or offer a friend some good advice? God’s wisdom is still available for us today…..we just need to ask for it and action it in our lives!

Ask God for the wisdom that you need right now!

Seven-4-Seven 5. Seven Bible Stories

You’ve Probably Never Heard!: Chariots of Fire!

Elijah was the most famous and powerful prophet whose story is told in the book of I Kings and 2 Kings of the Bible. He was close to God and served him faithfully throughout his life, often taking God’s uncomfortable message of challenge and confrontation to the people and to their King. Elijah was one of only two people described as not dying, but being taken to heaven in a supernatural way! He was traveling with Elisha when a chariot and horses of fire appeared and carried him to heaven. No-one ever found his body!

Elisha was like Elijah’s apprentice. Elisha asked for a double portion of Elijah’s spirit (meaning his gift as a prophet) in a similar way to that of an oldest son receiving a double portion of his father’s inheritance, which was the custom of that time. By this request Elisha was really asking to be Elijah’s heir, or successor; the one who would continue Elijah’s work as leader of the prophets. Elisha picked up Elijah’s coat, which was a symbol of his authority as a prophet.

God granted Elisha’ request because his motives were pure. His main goal was not to be better or more powerful than Elijah, but to accomplish more for God. If our motives are pure we don’t have to be afraid to ask great things from God. If we ask God for great power or ability, we need to be sure we are doing it for him… not for our own glory!!!

7Fifty men of the groups of prophets came and stood far from where Elijah and Elisha were by the Jordan. 8Elijah took off his coat, rolled it up, and hit the water. The water divided to the right and to the left, and Elijah and Elisha crossed over on dry ground.

9After they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, “What can I do for you before I am taken from you?” Elisha said, “Leave me a double share of your spirit.”

10Elijah said, “You have asked a hard thing. But if you see me when I am taken from you, it will be yours. If you don’t, it won’t happen.”

11As they were walking and talking, a chariot and horses of fire appeared and separated Elijah from Elisha. Then Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind. 12Elisha saw it and shouted, “My father! My father! The chariots of Israel and their horsemen!” And Elisha did not see him anymore. Then Elisha grabbed his own clothes and tore them to show how sad he was.

13He picked up Elijah’s coat that had fallen from him. Then he returned and stood on the bank of the Jordan. 14Elisha hit the water with Elijah’s coat and said, “Where is the Lord, the God of Elijah?” When he hit the water, it divided to the right and to the left, and Elisha crossed over.

15The groups of prophets at Jericho were watching and said, “Elisha now has the spirit Elijah had.” And they came to meet him, bowing down to the ground before him.16

2 Kings 2:7-15 (NCV)

Notes...

Whose ‘double portion’ would you like to have? e.g is there someone you see who has a great relationship with God and / or does some great things for him that you would like to be like?

Why?

If you were to be taken up to heaven without dying, how would you like to be taken and who would you like to see you go?!!

‘Lord Jesus, please help me to always put what pleases you first in my life! Amen’

Seven-4-Seven 6. Seven Bible Stories

You’ve Probably Never Heard!: Rhoda’s Surprise!

This is a funny story with Rhoda, a young servant girl, as a central character! She was probably quite young, maybe around 12 or 13 years old, and this is the only place that she appears in the Bible. Peter was in prison and all the believers were gathered in this house praying furiously for his safety and release. In the middle of this prayer meeting there was a knock on the door.

Rhoda went to answer it, and when she heard Peter’s voice she was so excited that she rushed to tell the others, and forgot to open the door and let him in! The others did not believe her at first, and told her she was out of her mind. When Rhoda insisted that Peter really was standing at the door, they tried to convince her that it was not Peter, but his angel! Peter kept pounding on the door and eventually they opened the door for him. They were amazed that it really was him, even though that’s exactly what they had been praying for!

4Herod put Peter in jail and ordered four squads of soldiers to guard him. Herod planned to put him on trial in public after the festival. 5While Peter was being kept in jail, the church never stopped praying to God for him. 6The night before Peter was to be put on trial, he was asleep and bound by two chains. A soldier was guarding him on each side, and two other soldiers were guarding the entrance to the jail. 7Suddenly an angel from the Lord appeared and light flashed around in the cell. The angel poked Peter in the side and woke him up. Then he said, “Quick! Get up!”

The chains fell off his hands, 8and the angel said, “Get dressed and put on your sandals.” Peter did what he was told. Then the angel said, “Now put on your coat and follow me.” 9Peter left with the angel, but he thought everything was only a dream. 10They went past the two groups of soldiers, and when they came to the iron gate to the city, it opened by itself. They went out and were going along the street, when all at once the angel disappeared.

11Peter now realized what had happened, and he said, “I am certain that the Lord sent his angel to rescue me from Herod and from everything the Jewish leaders planned to do to me.” 12Then Peter went to the house of Mary the mother of John whose other name was Mark. Many of the Lord’s followers had come together there and were praying.

13Peter knocked on the gate, and a servant named Rhoda came to answer. 14When she heard Peter’s voice, she was too excited to open the gate. She ran back into the house and said that Peter was standing there.

15”You are crazy!” everyone told her. But she kept saying that it was Peter. Then they said, “It must be his angel.”16But Peter kept on knocking, until finally they opened the gate. They saw him and were completely amazed. 17Peter motioned for them to keep quiet. Then he told how the Lord had led him out of jail.

Acts 12: 4-16 (CEV) How do you imagine Rhoda was changed by this experience? Do you think she ever again doubted God would answer her prayers?

Notes...

The prayers of the group of believers were answered even as they prayed.

But when the answer arrived at the door they didn’t believe it! When you pray, always believe that you’ll get an answer!

‘Dear God, thank you that you always answer prayers...but not always in the way that I most expect! Amen’

Seven-4-Seven 7. Seven Bible Stories

You’ve Probably Never Heard!: Sleeping Death!

On the first day of the week we met to break bread together. Paul spoke to the people until midnight because he was leaving the next morning. 8In the upstairs room where we were meeting, there were a lot of lamps. 9A young man by the name of Eutychus was sitting on a window sill. While Paul was speaking, the young man got very sleepy. Finally, he went to sleep and fell three floors all the way down to the ground. When they picked him up, he was dead. 10Paul went down and bent over Eutychus. He took him in his arms and said, “Don’t worry! He’s alive.” 11After Paul had gone back upstairs, he broke bread, and ate with us. He then spoke until dawn and left. 12Then the followers took the young man home alive and were very happy.

Acts 20: 7-12 (CEV)

Read the funny rhyme below!

Poor, Sleepy Eutychust Poor, sleepy Eutychus, A-sittin without squirmin’, Perching on a window ledge To hear an endless sermon Now his eyes are droopy, Sittin’ way up high; Poor, sleepy Eutychus Is just about to die Saint Paul keeps on a-preachin’ To our hero snoozin’ hard Then Euty leans into the air And crashes in the yard.

But Paul is an apostle, Quite unlike other men; Down he runs to Eutychus And gives him life again So if you’re gonna sleep in church, Don’t from a window fall; The man up front a preachin’ Is not apostle Paul! http://www.biblewise.com/archives/2006/may kids_korner/bible¬_charcetrs/poor_sleepy.htm

Ever been so bored in a church sermon that you fell asleep? Then woke up and hoped that no-one had noticed! That’s exactly what happened here to poor Eutychus, who was probably only a teenager! The combination of the heat from the ‘many lamps’ and the number of people in the upstairs room probably made the room warm and stuffy….and Paul went on and on and on! (It was his last night with this particular group of people!) But Eutychus’ untimely doze led to a fatal fall from a third story window! Once again Paul put his faith into action and believed in God to bring Eutychus back to life. This he did…and everyone went back inside, ate, and Paul carried on from where he had left off, for the rest of the night!

What do you think Paul was talking about all night? It must have been important!

Notes...

Which story did you enjoy the most from the seven you have read this month? _____________________________________ Which story surprised you the most? _____________________________________ Which story showed you something new? _____________________________________ ‘Thank you God for all the wonderful people and stories in the Bible that teach me more about you! Amen.’

Seven-4-Seven January:

Family Matters!

Jan

Happy New Year! Welcome to the first Seven-4-Seven of the year!

Did you have a fun Christmas? Lots of food, presents, fun….and family?! Little brother so excited his screams burst your ear drums……older sister with her head phones surgically attached to her ears so any conversation was impossible….. mum stressing about the Christmas dinner and constantly asking you to ‘set the table, empty the dishwasher, peel the spuds, pick up the wrapping paper’…..dad’s favourite aunt giving you the most hideous knitted jumper which dad insisted that you wear all Christmas Day….grandma kissing you at every opportunity…. the dog making disgusting smells every five minutes due to stealing the left over turkey….full scale war breaking out over cheating in the annual game of charades……????!!!!

Families…don’t you just love them!? And we expect that you have spent a lot of time with yours over the Christmas holiday!?! Family is the subject of this months Seven-4-Seven as, whatever your experience – ‘Family Matters’! We will take some time to look at God’s design for family and the guidelines that he has given us in the Bible for a happy and fulfilled family life.

Stop for a minute and think about all your friends. How many different ‘types’ of family can you see. e.g. living with two parents; one parent; step dad and brothers and sister; living with grandparents; or in a children’s care home; fostered; adopted etc.

Family structures today are so diverse and your friends’ experiences of family may be completely different from yours. But, whether you live in a family with two parents and two kids, whether you live with one parent, foster parents, grandparents, step parents ….or someone completely different taking care of you….the words in the Bible about family can still apply to you.

(For the ease of writing and reading however, in each Bible reading we refer to parents, brothers, sisters… but you can adapt this to apply to whatever family situation you are in.)

Throughout the ages, God’s plan and desire has always been for parents to raise up their children to know and love him and walk in his ways. The writers of the Bible assume that we are all being bought up by Godly parents who put God’s ways first in their life. If you’re parents are not Christians you may find some of the discussion harder to apply to your life. If so, seek advice from a church leader or Godly mentor as to how to outwork the biblical principles in your own family situation.

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Notes...

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven. A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps! You may also like to use a journal to write down your thoughts, questions and feelings…..and keep track of what happens in your family as you put into practise some of what you will be reading about!

Seven-4-Seven 1. Family Matters:

Family Lives

God said, “Now we will make humans, and they will be like us. We will let them rule the fish, the birds, and all other living creatures.” So God created humans to be like himself; he made men and women. God gave them his blessing and said: Have a lot of children! Fill the earth with people and bring it under your control. Rule over the fish in the ocean, the birds in the sky, and every animal on the earth.”

Genesis 1: 26-28

“I give you a new command: Love each other. You must love each other as I have loved you. All people will know that you are my followers if you love each other.”

John 13:34 – 35 (CEV) Families were God’s idea! Right here in the first chapter of the Bible we see God creating the first human family! He made man first - Adam - and he saw immediately that man needed company so he created woman - Eve! Their instructions were simple… go and have children and create God’s family of people on earth! God created the human family as a place for nurture, protection, instruction and love. The Bible tells us that family members are to look after and care for one another.

Parents are instructed to love and bring up their children in God’s ways and provide for their needs. Children are instructed to honour, obey and learn from their parents….and take care of them when they are old!

Jesus’ command to love each other is especially important to live out in our families!

Draw a picture of your family here. (Stick men will be fine if you’re not a great artist!)

Next to the drawing of each person, write one thing that you love about them!

“Dear God, thank you for my family. Help me to show my family how much I love them!”

Seven-4-Seven 2. Family Matters:

Family History

Jesus Christ came from the family of King David and also from the family of Abraham. And this is a list of his ancestors. From Abraham to King David, his ancestors were: Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Judah and his brothers (Judah’s sons were Perez and Zerah, and their mother was Tamar), Hezron; Ram, Amminadab, Nahshon, Salmon, Boaz (his mother was Rahab), Obed (his mother was Ruth), Jesse, and King David.

From David to the time of the exile in Babylonia, the ancestors of Jesus were: David, Solomon (his mother had been Uriah’s wife), Rehoboam, Abijah, Asa, Jehoshaphat, Jehoram; Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, Hezekiah, Manasseh, Amon, Josiah, and Jehoiachin and his brothers.

Highlight any of the people that you recognise in the list of Jesus’ ancestors? Does anything surprise you about this list?

From the exile to the birth of Jesus, his ancestors were: Jehoiachin, Shealtiel, Zerubbabel, Abiud, Eliakim, Azor, Zadok, Achim; Eliud, Eleazar, Matthan, Jacob, and Joseph, the husband of Mary, the mother of Jesus, who is called the Messiah.

There were fourteen generations from Abraham to David. There were also fourteen from David to the exile in Babylonia and fourteen more to the birth of the Messiah. .

The first chapter of Matthew lists all the generations of the ancestors of Jesus. We may often skip this bit when we read Matthew (it seems a bit boring!) but the fact that it is included shows us how important family is. The family is the most important group of people mentioned in the Bible. It is seen as the most important building block of human society. Biblical families usually included not just dad, mum and the kids but the grandparents, uncles and aunts, cousins, and any in-laws related by marriage too. Imagine all your extended family members getting together for a one big family reunion!

My Family Tree...

Have a go at creating your own family tree.

How far back can you go? Ask a relative for help if you need to!

Can you find out any interesting facts about your family?

Thank God for your family that you have described above.

Seven-4-Seven 3. Family Matters:

Parent Proverbs!

My child, listen to your father’s teaching and do not forget your mother’s advice. Their teaching will be like flowers in your hair or a necklace around your neck.

Proverbs 1: 8-9 (NCV) Make your parents proud….

Proverbs 23:25 (CEV) Children, obey your parents as the Lord wants, because this is the right thing to do. The command says, “Honour your father and mother.”

This is the first command that has a promise with it - “Then everything will be well with you, and you will have a long life on the earth.”

Ephesians 6:1-3 (NCV)

Children with good sense make their parents happy, but foolish children make them sad.

Proverbs 10:1 (CEV) It is foolish to ignore what your parents taught you; it is wise to accept their correction.

Proverbs 15:5(GNV) Wise children take their parents’ advice…

Proverbs 13:1 (CEV)

Circle the Proverb

above which you think applies to you and

your parents the most at the moment.

Ok so they’re not all Proverbs! But what we have here is a collection of some of the Bibles best instruction for how we should treat our parents.

Can you find words like obey, respect, honour, please….? These are all attitudes we should have in our families with our parents. These words can also apply if you are living with adoptive or foster parents, grandparents or other people who are looking after you. Of course, the writers of the Bible assume that we are all being bought up by Godly parents who put God’s ways first in their life. If you’re parents are not Christians and / or are asking you to do things that you feel go against God’s word….seek advice from one of your church leaders on how best to honour and respect your parents in this situation.

Notes...

Now rewrite it in your own words…making it personal to you….and think of one way to you to action it today!

Believe it or not, you and your parents could be great friends! Think of one activity that you would like to do with your mum or dad (or if you don’t have a mum or dad then the person who looks after you) … then invite them to do it with you! Think of this as a way to get to know your parent better!

Now turn it into a prayer!

Seven-4-Seven 4. Family Matters:

Cain and Abel

Abel became a shepherd, but Cain was a farmer. After some time Cain brought some of his harvest and gave it as an offering to the Lord. Then Abel brought the first lamb born to one of his sheep, killed it, and gave the best parts of it as an offering. The Lord was pleased with Abel and his offering, but he rejected Cain and his offering. Cain became furious, and he scowled in anger………..Then Cain said to his brother Abel, ‘Let’s go out in the fields.’ When they were out in the fields, Cain turned on his brother and killed him. The Lord asked Cain, ‘Where is your brother Abel?’ He answered, ‘I don’t know. Am I supposed to take care of my brother?’

Genesis 4:2-9 (GNT)

These were the first two kids born on the planet and it seems like ever since Cain killed his brother Abel, brothers and sisters have been fighting!

Right here is where sibling rivalry began!

What feelings do you think Cain must have felt towards Abel to provoke such an extreme reaction? (Do you feel any of those things towards your siblings?)

Notes...

You may wonder at times why God has lumbered you with your brother(s) and / or sister (s)! You may feel that life would be so much easier if they weren’t in it! God put us in families that we should care about all our lives. If we learn to get along, brothers and sisters could be our best friends. In Matthew 7 it says “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you.”(Matthew 7:12)The Bible teaches that we should put others before ourselves and give them good things we’d want them to give us.

Think of one way you could action this verse with your brother/sister today? e.g. do something kind, generous or helpful for them in the way that you would like done for you! Do these kind things - not so they will do kind things back but so you can show them God’s love.

“Dear God, thank you for my brother / sister …………………………. (write their names here.) I’m sorry for all the times I have argued and with them and been unkind. Please help us to get along and enjoy being siblings! Amen.“

Seven-4-Seven 5. Family Matters:

Family Values

If we say we love God, but hate others, we are liars. For we cannot love God, whom we have not seen, if we do not love others, whom we have seen.

1 John 4:20 (GNT)

1

God blesses those who are merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

Matthew 5:7 (NLT)

If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones. But if you are dishonest in little things, you won’t be honest with greater responsibilities.

Luke 16:10 (NLT) 5

2

Do your own work well, and then you will have something to be proud of. But don’t compare yourself with others.

Galatians 6:4 (CEV)

3

Be kind and loving to each other, and forgive each other just as God forgave you in Christ.

Ephesians 4: 32(NCV)

4

Honour your father and your mother so that you will live a long time in the land that the Lord your God is going to give you.

Exodus 20:12 (NCV)

6

Families are great…..but we know there can be tricky times living in a family too. The Bible gives us plenty of wise guidelines for having good relationships within our family.

Look at the following questions. I’m sure you’ve heard yourself or your mates ask these questions before! Can you match up the question with a Bible verse above? � What’s a good reason for being nice to my brother or sister? � How can I get my parents to trust me more? � How can my brother and sister stop fighting all the time? � Even though I try hard, I can’t do anything as well as my big sister. � My brother makes me so mad, I just hate him! � Do I have to do everything my parents tell me?

Notes...

Choose one of the above verses and think of a practical way you could live it out today (or this week.) Write your idea here, then do it!

“Dear God, please help me to behave the way that you want me to within my family. Help our family relationships to grow stronger day by day. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 6. Family Matters:

Child Of God

Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.

Ephesians 1:4-5 (NLT) Now that we are his children, God has sent the Spirit of his Son into our hearts. And his Spirit tells us that God is our Father. You are no longer slaves. You are God’s children, and you will be given what he has promised.

Galatians 4:6-7 (CEV)

God has a family too, and he created you to be a part of it. This is one of God’s purposes for your life, which he planned before you were born.

The entire Bible is the story of God building a family who will love him, honour him and reign with him forever. We are referred to again and again as the children of God in the Bible. This means that, if you are a Christian, you are a member of God’s family! God himself has made you his child and he is your Father and you have been born into his family.

We all have different experiences in our human family and sometimes we can go through tough times. As a child of God you can be confident that God, the most amazing parent, will accept you, support you, always be there for you and never stop loving you! Amazing!

Paraphrase (rewrite in your own words) Ephesians 1:4-5, putting in your own name….e.g.

Right at the beginning of time God knew about me……., loved me and had chosen me to be part of his family………

Notes...

If there are times today when you feel down in your earthly family, remind yourself that you are also part of God’s family.

“Father God, thank you for including me in your family. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 7. Family Matters:

Family of God

Jesus and the people he makes holy all belong to the same family.

That is why he isn’t ashamed to call them his brothers and sisters.

Hebrews 2:11 (CEV)

Many times the Bible describes the church as a ‘family’ – the family of God. The family of God is meant to be just that; ONE family who share their lives together with the ONE Father with all the children being part of a healthy, functioning, world-wide family! This is why you may often hear your church leaders refer to ‘our brothers and sisters in the Lord!’

This is a family drawn “from every nation, tribe, people and language” (Revelation 7:9). Just like an earthly family, each person in God’s family is important. We have a special relationship with each other as members of God’s family which is different from with those friends who aren’t Christians. Your church family can support and encourage you and help you grow in your relationship with God! So get involved and play your part in this amazing family!

Have you ever thought of your church as one big ‘family’?

Have you ever thought of your Christian friends as ‘brothers and sisters’?!

In what ways do you feel that your church is like a family? E.g. getting together, having fun together, all different age groups, looking out for each other. Write your thoughts here.

Notes...

Remember as you go about your daily actvities today that your best friend Jesus is always close beside you!

Seven-4-Seven February:

The Lessons We Learn !

Feb

Picture the scene – you are about to head off on your family holiday when you realise your little brother is no where to be seen! He should be getting into the car right now…everyone is mad because he is making you late. All your family search everywhere for him until finally someone rings the school. ‘Yes’, they say, ‘he’s here in class as normal’.

You all pile into the car and storm down to the school to get him. To your amazement he can’t understand why you are all so angry….’surely you knew I wouldn’t want to miss a single minute of my learning’! This confirms the suspicions you’ve had since his birth…he really is a freak of nature! After all, who would want to be in school instead of going on holiday?!

In the Bible we read a similar story when Jesus was 12 years old. Instead of heading home with his parents from Jerusalem, they eventually found him several days later in the temple with the teachers, learning! You may feel like going to school and doing you school work is a real pain that gets right in the way of you enjoying life! But this month’s Seven4-Seven we are going to look at why learning is good and how we can honour God by doing the best we can possibly do at school!

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven.

A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps! You may also like to use a journal to write down your thoughts, questions and feelings.

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Notes...

Seven-4-Seven 1. The Lessons

We Learn: Work Becomes Worship When Done For Jesus!

In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people.

Colossians 3:23 (NCV) Work hard so God can say to you, ‘Well done.’ Be a good workman, one who does not need to be ashamed when God examines your work.

2 Timothy 2:15 (TLB)

The apostle Paul actually wrote these words to people who were slaves, encouraging them to view their work as if they were doing it for Jesus, not simply for their human masters. Since the creation God has given us work to do….and we honour God by being the best we can be at the job he has given us! For you at this moment in time, one of your jobs is your school work. You may not feel that your school work is of particular importance in your relationship with God, but it is if you see it so and do it for God’s glory. You please God if you do your work with care, diligence, honesty, and to the best of your ability.

Have you ever regarded your school work as an act of worship or service to God? Notes...

If you have a school diary or homework note book, find a space and write the above verse in it. Remind yourself today in each lesson to work to the best of your ability….you are doing it for Jesus, not just your teacher!

Pray and commit yourself and your school work to God.

Seven-4-Seven 2. The Lessons

We Learn: ‘Everyone With Good Sense Wants To Learn!’

Every year Jesus’ parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover Feast.

When he was twelve years old, they went to the feast as they always did. After the feast days were over, they started home. The boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem, but his parents did not know it. Thinking that Jesus was with them in the group, they travelled for a whole day. Then they began to look for him among their family and friends.

When they did not find him, they went back to Jerusalem to look for him there. After three days they found Jesus sitting in the Temple with the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions. All who heard him were amazed at his understanding and answers.

Colossians 3:23 (NCV)

Everyone with good sense wants to learn.

Colossians 3:23 (NCV) Learning is good! And here is the Bible story we talked about in the introduction where Jesus wanted to spend time with teachers learning in the temple school. The Bible has lots to say about the importance of gaining wisdom and knowledge, one way you can do this is through your school education! The more you know the better you can get along in the world. People say that there are many advantages to gaining a good education, such as better job opportunities when you are older, including higher salaries and more job satisfaction.

What do you think Jesus was learning from the temple teachers?

Notes...

But did you know that there are an estimated 101 million children in the world who don’t have the chance of an education. The majority of these uneducated children live in southern Africa and South Asia and more than half are girls. These people are being denied their basic human right to education, with far-reaching consequences. Without it, their future opportunities are dramatically limited.(Figures from UNICEF)

Are you making

Do you ever

How do you feel

education that

education

help you to get

the most of the you are getting?

take your

for granted?

your education will where you want to be in the future?

‘Thank you Jesus for the opportunity I have in this country to gain an education and to gain knowledge and wisdom about your world. Please help me to make the most of my schooling, to enjoy learning, and to not ever take it for granted. Amen.’

Seven-4-Seven 3. The Lessons

We Learn: If You Don’t Work You Don’t Eat!

The lazy will not get what they want, but those who work hard will.

Proverbs 13:4 (NCV) Work hard, and you will be a leader; be lazy, and you will end up a slave.

Proverbs 12:24 (CEV) Lazy men are soon poor; hard workers get rich. A wise youth makes hay while the sun shines, but what a shame to see a lad who sleeps away his hour of opportunity (TLB)

Proverbs 10:1 (CEV) Ever heard your mum or dad say to you ‘If you don’t work you don’t eat’?! In other words…get off your backside and do your job! This saying actually originates in the Bible as a warning against laziness! The Bible has a great deal to say about laziness. Proverbs especially, is filled with wisdom concerning laziness and warnings to the lazy person. Proverbs tells us that a lazy person hates work: (21:25); he loves sleep; he gives excuses; he wastes time and energy; he believes he is wise, but is a fool (26:16)! In the verses above we can see what is in store for a lazy person!

Being a lazy person is not honouring to God or living in his way. But a person who works hard at what God has put before him/her will receive lots of rewards!

Notes...

Do you give your school work the time and energy you should to do the best that you can….or do you try to get away with as little work as possible?

(NB Laziness is different from tiredness. If you feel tired all the time make sure you are getting enough sleep, exercise and the right kind of foods!)

Choose one task that you have to do today, put in that little bit if extra effort and see what happens!

‘Lord Jesus, I am sorry for the times when I let laziness become part of my life and I haven’t been bothered to do my school work or other responsibilities. Please give me energy, enthusiasm and motivation to work hard at my studies. Amen’

Seven-4-Seven 4. The Lessons We

Learn: Don’t Worry, Be Happy!

Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.

Philippians 4:6-7 (CEV) God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.

1 Peter 5:7 (CEV)

Are you a worrier? You may have found there are lots of things in secondary school that could cause you worry, especially your school work. You may worry about being bottom of the class, about not understanding what you are being taught, about being split up from your friends into different sets, about a teacher who doesn’t seem to like you, and especially about tests and exams that seem to be a regular feature of secondary school life. But the Bible tells us very clearly that we should not worry. Why? Because we can trust that God has got it all under control and is working things out for us in the best possible way.

Paraphrase (write out in your own words) one of the above Bible verses as a message to yourself. e.g. ‘I don’t need to worry anymore, as God is looking out for me’ Notes...

Set up a ‘worry box’ in your bedroom. Every time you feel worried about your school work, write it on a slip of paper and place it in the box, with a prayer thanking God that you can give all your worries and anxieties to him.

Think of one thing that you are worried about to do with your school work.

Write it here:__________________________________________________ Now pray and give God your worries and ask him to fill you with his peace!

Seven-4-Seven 5. The Lessons

We Learn: Facing Failure

“Even if good people fall seven times, they will get back up. But when trouble strikes the wicked, that’s the end of them.”

Proverbs 24:16 (CEV) He lifted me out of the pit of despair, out of the mud and the mire.

He set my feet on solid ground and steadied me as I walked along He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many people will see this and worship him.

Then they will trust the Lord.

Psalm 40:2-3(NCV) We’ve all been there...when we put our heart into something and it just doesn’t seem to “click.” Whether it is a class test, making the team, or letting down a friend, we all experience failure from time to time. Fear of failure can stop us trying out new things. Sometimes we even feel like we’ve failed God. The Bible talks a little bit about failure, and helps us realise that God is with us all the way through it, as the two verses above illustrate.

Many of the great figures of Scripture experienced failure at one time or another, think of Abraham, Moses, Elijah, David, and Peter. But what we can learn from these guys is that they didn’t allow failure to keep them down. They got back on their feet, sought God’s forgiveness where necessary, dusted themselves off and began again. They didn’t let their experience or fear of failure hold them back, and they learned from their mistakes.

Notes...

Can you identify with the writer of the Psalm above? In other words, have you ever felt so bad about something that you messed up that you felt like you were in a ‘pit of despair’ or stuck in the deep mud!? How did you pick yourself back up afterwards?

Don’t let a fear of failure stop you trying!

‘Thank you Jesus that you are with me in my failures as well as my successes, and you still love me the same whatever I do. Amen’

Seven-4-Seven 6. The Lessons

We Learn: Respect For Teachers!

The Lord wants you to obey all human authorities………Respect everyone and show special love for God’s people. Honour God and respect the Emperor.

1 Peter 2:13, 17 (CEV)

In this Bible passage Peter is teaching about the importance of respecting others. The word “respect” comes from the Greek word timao which literally means placing a great value on something. You may feel like your teachers are a real pain, but consider the following points: Teachers, for the most part, want you to be the very best you can be in your lifetime.

Teachers have dedicated years of their life to learn their subjects and how to impart their knowledge.

Many teachers also spend a lot of extra time providing activities to support their students.

Teachers generally care about and understand young people, otherwise they wouldn’t be teachers!

Of course, there are good teachers and some not so good, (and if you feel you are being bullied or unfairly treated by a teacher speak to another adult who can help and advise you) but remember that God has given these teachers a position of authority in your life, and if you let them they will help you as you learn, grow and find your place in the world!

In what ways can you show respect to your teachers? e.g. � Behave appropriately in class Listen when your teacher is teaching!

Complete your work to the best of your ability Hand work in by given deadlines (or explain in advance if you are having a problem meeting the deadline) Don’t gossip or talk negatively about the teacher with your friends Say ‘thank you’ at the end of a class! ..................................................................................................... ..................................................................................................... .....................................................................................................

Write the name here of one teacher who you really respect and think about why that is? Choose one of the above points to action with a teacher today!

Thank you God for my teachers. Please help me to show them the respect they deserve. Amen’

Seven-4-Seven 7. The Lessons

We Learn: In Perspective

Seek first God’s kingdom and what God wants. Then all your other needs will be met as well. (NCV) But more than anything else, put God’s work first and do what he wants. Then the other things will be yours as well. (CEV) Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions.

Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met. (The Message)

Matthew 6:33

All week we have read, thought and prayed about the importance of learning well and working hard at school, respecting those who teach us and learning from our mistakes. But, what we must remember more than anything else, for a happy, successful and God-pleasing life is to put God’s work first and do what he wants. This is how we keep our life in balance and in perspective. We are to seek the things of God as a priority over the things of the world. Does this mean that we should neglect our school work and other responsibilities? Definitely not. But if we are taking care of God’s business as a priority, living in his ways, then he will take care of all aspects of our lives as promised.

Have you ever found that your school work comes in the way of your relationship with God? If so, how can you change this?

Notes...

Which of the three translations of Matthew 6:33 given above do you like the best? Why?

Draw a picture of yourself here and then write around it all the different things / people that make up your life e.g. friends, school, homework, family

Pray and commit all aspects of your life asking him to show you how to always put him first.

Seven-4-Seven March:

Back To Basics!

Mar

Think of one thing that you are really passionate about…is it football, horse riding, art, Irish dancing, movies, scuba diving or Dr Who?!

Write it here: If one of your friends asked you about your interest, what would you say? You’d probably be able to talk for hours about what you do and why you’re into that particular thing, explaining the finer points of what’s what or who’s who!! You may hope that your friend catches your enthusiasm and wants to join you in your interest!

In your new school you may already have had people interested in what you’re into outside of school hours – and you may have made some friends with some really unusual hobbies!!

So what happens when someone asks you about your faith, or about Jesus, or about The Salvation Army or why you go to church? In the Bible we are urged to make sure that we can always ‘give an answer’ when someone asks us questions like these.

Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have.

But do this with gentleness and respect.

1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) In The Message it says: “Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you’re living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy.”

This month’s Seven-4-Seven we are going to go ‘Back to Basics’….to recap on what we believe as Christians and why we believe it. So the next time someone asks you, you will be ready to give a clear and confident answer!

Many of you reading this will be members of The Salvation Army, so we are going to use The Salvation Army Doctrines of faith to help us through this month! A Doctrine is simply a statement of belief….and The Salvation Army has got eleven…eleven statements of faith (doctrines) that explain what we believe as Christians and form the basis of the Christian faith. On each devotional this month a simplified form of one or two of the doctrines will be given…read this very carefully, perhaps a few times, until you are sure you understand! The rest of the devotional will unpack this statement and ask you to consider what it means to you!

One word we will use a lot this month is ‘Sin’. What do you think sin means?

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Sin is a word that can be hard to relate to and often we see it as something that only involved Adam and Eve. Sin is essentially doing what we want to do when we want to do it rather than doing what God would have us do. In other words, we act like our own god instead of letting God be God. Sin can be actions or attitudes; it can be doing things we shouldn’t, or not doing things we should. Sin affects our relationship with God and changes the way that we see the world and others around us. We are all affected by sin, but we can all experience freedom from sin through Jesus.

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven. A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps! You may also like to use a journal to write down your thoughts, questions and feelings…. and to remind you what it means to be a Christian!

Simplified forms of the doctrine taken from ‘Battle Orders’ written by Chick Yuill.

Seven-4-Seven 1. Back To

Basics!: The Bible

God helped good people to speak and write what is in the Bible, so that from it we may learn the way God means us to live.

Doctrine 1

All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realise what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. God uses it to prepare and equip his people to do every good work.

2 Timothy 3.16-17, NLT

The Salvation Army’s very first doctrine is about the belief that the Bible is God’s powerful word. It’s what God wants to say to us right now and in the future. It’s not full of ancient text with no relevance to us living in the 21st century; but words that inspire, excite, challenge, inform and comfort. The Bible was written by lots of different people, but it was God who helped them know what to write, and it makes sense as one big book telling us the story of God, his dreams for his world and his love for his people. As Christians we can turn to the Bible for advice and guidance, comfort and inspiration…and as we read we get to know the author of the book for ourselves…that’s God! For lots more about the Bible get hold of a copy of Shelf Life!

Do you have a favourite Bible verse?

If so, write it here….

Notes...

Share your Bible verse with someone today!

(If you don’t have one ask another member of your family what their favourite verse is and why! Then make a note of it in the box above!)

“Dear God, Please open my heart and mind so that I can notice all the great things about the Bible. Keep on showing me new things about your love and how I should live. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 2. Back To

Basics!: Who Is God?

There is only one God and he is altogether perfect in every way. He is the creator, preserver and governor of all things. We should not worship anyone or anything else. Jesus is both truly God and truly human; he has both God’s nature and human nature. The Father, Jesus the Son and the Holy Spirit are one God.

Doctrines 2, 3, 4 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

2 Corinthians 13:14 (NCV)

God is wonderful and glorious. I pray that his Spirit will make you become strong followers and that Christ will live in your hearts because of your faith. Stand firm and be deeply rooted in his love.

Ephesians 3:16-17 (CEV)

The Salvation Army doctrines 2, 3 and 4 all tell us about who God is.

We believe in one God, the only true God, who created and sustains everything, and who is the only one worthy of our worship. So where do Jesus and the Holy Spirit fit in? Well, they are God too! Jesus came to show us what God is like, and he sent the Holy Spirit to help us and be with us. They are distinct from each other, but the same! You can’t have one without the other! They are all God….sometimes called the Godhead or the Trinity. They all have the same importance and can all be worshipped. We can even pray to any one of them! It’s a bit like water, which can exist in three forms: solid (ice), liquid (water) and gas (steam). Three-in-one…all water…different parts…but the same! Or maybe Neapolitan ice-cream! Three flavours making up one delicious scoop of ice cream!

‘Thank you Jesus for the opportunity I have in this country to gain an education and to gain knowledge and wisdom about your world. Please help me to make the most of my schooling, to enjoy learning, and to not ever take it for granted. Amen.’

Pray the blessing in 2 Corinthians 13:14 above for / with your family today!

Tell God how amazing you think he is!

Seven-4-Seven 3. Back To

Basics!: The Fall

Our first parents, by their disobedience, lost their sense of God’s favour, and came under the power of sin; because of this we are all inclined to do wrong.

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.

(Doctrine 5)

Genesis 1:27

1The snake was sneakier than any of the other wild animals that the Lord God had made. One day it came to the woman and asked, “Did God tell you not to eat fruit from any tree in the garden?” 2The woman answered, “God said we could eat fruit from any tree in the garden, 3except the one in the middle. He told us not to eat fruit from that tree or even to touch it. If we do, we will die.” 4”No, you won’t!” the snake replied.

5”God understands what will happen on the day you eat fruit from that tree. You will see what you have done, and you will know the difference between right and wrong, just as God does.” 6The woman stared at the fruit. It looked beautiful and tasty. She wanted the wisdom that it would give her, and she ate some of the fruit. Her husband was there with her, so she gave some to him, and he ate it too. 7Right away they saw what they had done, and they realized they were naked. Then they sewed fig leaves together to make something to cover themselves. 8Late in the afternoon a breeze began to blow, and the man and woman heard the Lord God walking in the garden. They were frightened and hid behind some trees.

Genesis 3:1-8 (CEV) In the beginning God created human beings to enjoy friendship with him and to work with him in the world that he created. But Adam and Eve, the first people on the planet, decided to do things their own way.

They disobeyed God and they allowed sin to come into God’s good creation. Their relationship with God was broken, they were sent away from the beautiful garden of Eden and separated from God. Since then every human being is born separated from God by the effects of sin.

(Remember how we described sin in the introduction?) Of course, our Holy God can’t come close to sin or even look upon it…but separation from his people is not what God had in mind when he made us! So what is the solution….stay tuned for no 4!

Notes...

Notes...

What evidence do you see of ‘sin’ in God’s good world? (Look in the newspaper, watch the news)

What evidence do you see of sin in your own life?

“Lord Jesus, I am sorry for the times when I have done things my own way and not wanted to be close to you. Please forgive me. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 4. Back To Basics!:

The Rescue

On the cross Jesus suffered and died for the sins of everyone, so that whoever wants may be saved.

(Doctrine 6) For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life. For God did not send his Son into the world to be its judge, but to be its saviour.

John 3:16-17 Have you ever cleverly (so you thought) manoeuvred the situation at home so that your little brother or sister got blamed for something that you actually did….and then sat back and watched them take the punishment that should have been yours?! The Bible tells us that Jesus voluntarily accepted the punishment that should have been ours.

Remember number three, and the problem of sin in our lives separating us from our Father God? When Jesus suffered and died on the cross, and came back to life, he was receiving the punishment that our sins deserved, and with it taking away our guilt, fear and sorrow. Because of Jesus we are forgiven and are free to come right back into a close and loving relationship with God…… which is where we were always meant to be!

He was wounded and crushed because of our sins; by taking our punishment, he made us completely well.

Isaiah 53:5 (CEV)

Take a few minutes to look closely at the above picture and Bible verse next to it. As you do try to imagine all the things you know you have done and said that haven’t been pleasing to God being nailed onto the cross with Jesus.

Let today be a fresh start in whatever way you need it to be!

“Thank you Jesus that you have taken the punishment that should have been mine and that you have made a way for me to be forgiven. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 5. Back To

Basics!: New Life

To be saved we must be truly sorry for doing wrong and trust in Jesus; then the Holy Spirit will make us new people. Salvation is a free gift from God. It is received when we believe in Jesus; and when we are saved we know it.

(Doctrines 7, 8)

This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new life has begun!

2 Corinthians 5:17. (NLT)

Doctrines 7 and 8 tell us that we can become part of the amazing thing that Jesus has done by ‘being truly sorry for doing wrong’ and by trusting in him. In the Bible we read that when people wanted a new life with Jesus, they did just that too! The Bible tells us that when we commit ourselves to Jesus in this way by putting our faith in him and turning away from all the things that distort us, the Holy Spirit starts to produce something new within us. We know deep down inside us that we belong to Jesus and that nothing can change that; we become part of God’s family, we can live with more joy, peace and love than we ever did before. And anyone can be part of it!

What do you think the ‘old life’ looks like?

Notes...

What do you think the ‘new life’ looks like?

Notes...

Tell someone today about the new life they could have by believing in Jesus!

Ask the Holy Spirit into your life to continue to change you from the inside out!

Seven-4-Seven 6. Back To

Basics!: The Future

When our bodies die we ourselves go on living in a new and different way. At the end of time Jesus will judge all people. Those who have chosen him to be their saviour will be happy to live with him as their king, for ever. Those who have not done so will always be unhappy because they chose what separates them from all that is good and lovely.

(Doctrine 11) For God loved the world so much that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not die but have eternal life.

He has set a day when he will judge the world’s people with fairness. And he has chosen the man Jesus to do the judging for him. God has given proof of this to all of us by raising Jesus from death.

Everyone who has faith in the Son has eternal life.

But no one who rejects him will ever share in that life, and God will be angry with them forever.

John 3:16 (NIV)

Acts 17:31 (CEV)

John 3:36 (CEV)

The Salvation Army doctrine 11 tells us three things that Christians believe the Bible says will happen at sometime in the future.

God has made us for eternity.

Although we will all die at some point, death is not the end. When we die, the bodies we live in are finished, but our spirit isn’t. We will be with God forever, in brand new spiritual bodies, living in his perfect love! Although noone really knows this will be like, it will definitely be great!

At the end of time Jesus will return to judge the world. All people will be judged by their reaction to him. We will all be held accountable to God for the way we have lived, for our choices, attitudes, actions and stewardship of what was trusted to us. Because of our faith in Jesus we can be without fear on the day God judges us, because in this world we are like him.

(1 John 4:17)

People who trust in Jesus have the chance to live again with him in heaven. People who don’t trust Jesus give up that chance of being with him forever, and will discover the reality of eternity outside of God’s love.

Match up the Bible verses above with the explanation boxes!

“Thank you God that I can look forward to spending forever with you! “

Seven-4-Seven 7. Back To

Basics!: Living it out!

To keep good we must trust in Jesus to help us, and we must go on doing as he wants us to do. Saved people are given the chance to be used by God to help him. When they have given themselves to him fully, they can be given power to serve him, and be kept from sinning.

(Doctrine 9 & 10) So here’s what I want you to do, God helping you: Take your everyday, ordinary life—your sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life—and place it before God as an offering.

Embracing what God does for you is the best thing you can do for him. Don’t become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking. Instead, fix your attention on God. You’ll be changed from the inside out. Readily recognize what he wants from you, and quickly respond to it. Unlike the culture around you, always dragging you down to its level of immaturity, God brings the best out of you, develops well-formed maturity in you. ………….The only accurate way to understand ourselves is by what God is and by what he does for us, not by what we are and what we do for him.

Romans 12:1-3 (The Message) When we really understand all that we have thought about this month, there can only be one response….we give our whole lives to living with and for Jesus…after all, he gave his life for us……who else loves us that much?! Living for Jesus and wanting to become more like him is called Discipleship. Discipleship is not just normal life with a sprinkling of Jesus on the side. It is about giving our entire lives to him. It means growing in a deep friendship with him. It means living in a way that pleases and honours him. It means we start to care about the things that he cares about. And it means we want others to know about our wonderful Jesus too!

How does Jesus change your ‘ordinary everyday sleeping, eating, going-to-work, and walking-around life’?

Notes...

Tell someone about your friend Jesus today!.

Commit yourself again to Jesus and to living as his disciple and friend everyday!

Seven-4-Seven April:

Wholly Holy!

Year 7 were talking about television. They were having a discussion about violence on TV. Someone said that violence was OK, as long as there wasn’t too much of i it. Someone else thought there shouldn’t be any violence at all. Then another year 7 girl said, “I used to like television, but all the violence has put me right off it. Every time I change channels, my brother hits me!”1 In year 7 you have probably met lots of people into lots of different things, living in different ways. You may have found yourself getting into new TV programmes, new books, new websites, new activities, new computer games, even using new words!

Apr

Write some of these new things here!

Your school friends and teachers may have different opinions from you, even think about life in a completely opposite way to you and your family. All these new experiences are exciting and an important way to find out about the world! But, as a Christian, you are faced with some important questions. How can you become part of school life without compromising your faith and Christian values? How can you know what to get involved in and what to avoid? How can you live differently without being seen as a little odd?!

Peter, in the Bible, tells us to ‘Be holy in all you do, just as God, the One who called you, is holy.’ (1 Peter 1:15) And in Romans 12:2 the Bible says: Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect. (NLT).

As Christians we live with different values and priorities to many of those around us. We want to live in a way that is pleasing to God, with values such as honesty, kindness, generosity, faith, love and hope top of our agenda. We call this holy living! God asks us to live holy lives, not just to please him, but because he wants the best for us. It means staying away from the things that may hurt us or get in the way of our friendship with Jesus. And God gives us his Holy Spirit to help us live this way everyday.

In this months Seven-4-Seven we are going to look at some of the ways that we can outwork holy living in our day to day lives. We will discuss what it may mean for the things we say, do and think. Living ‘wholly holy’ lives may be different from those around us, but it fills us with peace, joy and love, and keeps our friendship with Jesus strong! And then other people notice and they may want to get to know Jesus to!

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven. A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps! You may also like to use a journal to write down your thoughts, questions and feelings…..and keep track of your ‘Wholly Holy’ life!

1Michel Rosen. Fantastically Funny Stories

Seven-4-Seven 1. Wholly Holy!:

The Bible

Be my holy people. Be holy because I am the Lord your God.

Leviticus 20:7 (NCV) But be holy in all you do, just as God, the One who called you, is holy. It is written in the Scriptures: “You must be holy, because I am holy.”

1 Peter 1:15-16 (NCV) Dazzling white clothes, glowing bright face, perhaps even a golden halo…..what is the first thing you think of when you hear the word ‘HOLY’. The Bible tells us that God is Holy – that is, he is completely pure, separate from evil, perfect in every way. When people in the Bible came face to face with God’s holiness….they were actually terrified! It made them realise just how unholy they were! It made the sin in their lives stand out like an ugly stain and they thought they would have to die there and then rather than stand in the presence of such holiness!

The great news for us is that, when we became Christians and committed our lives to Jesus, God made us Holy! Yes, he really did! He took away all the sin and washed out all the ugly stains. Then he gave us the Holy Spirit to help us to continue to live in a way that pleases him and keeps us clean! Wholly Holy!

Holiness is…….

1. Living by a set of rigid rules

True

False

2. Happiness & freedom

True

False

(Answer: 1. False; 2. True)

How can holiness be happiness?

Notes...

Find an older Christian and ask them this question today!

“Lord Jesus, I want to live in a way that is pleasing to you, especially at school. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit to help me live a holy life.”

Seven-4-Seven 2. Wholly Holy!:

Speaking

But the things that come out of the mouth come from the heart…

Matthew 15:18

Want to know what is really going on inside you…then listen to the words that come out of your mouth! In this verse Jesus was teaching the people that the way we are deep down (where others can’t see) matters much to God….and so does the things that we say. Being careful not to gossip and pass on rumours about others, not swearing or blaspheming (that means using God’s name in an irreverent manner), using our words to build up and encourage other people are all ways we show the work of the Holy Spirit within our lives….and are Wholly Holy!

Write down some of the things you have heard yourself say to your family and friends over the last 24 hours.

What do these words tell you about what is going on in your heart?

Notes...

Gossip

Swear

Say unkind words

Speak negatively about yourself or others Highlight one of the above which you find most difficult NOT to do?

Make an extra effort today, with the help of the Holy Spirit, not to do it!

“Lord Jesus, help me to use the words that I speak to build up others and to honour you. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 3. Wholly Holy!:

Watching

Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light. But when your eye is bad, your whole body is filled with darkness.

Matthew 6:22-23 (NLT) I will lead a life of integrity in my own home.

I will refuse to look at anything vile and vulgar.

Psalm 101: 2-3 (NLT)

TV, books, magazines, films, websites, pictures, adverts…all these things we look at everyday…..and we are letting them into our life through our eyes! And what goes in…has got to come out somehow! A ‘good’ eye is one that is fixed on God and means that our heart focuses on the right things, rather than allowing ourselves to look at things which could harm us and hurt our relationship with him. Of course it’s fun to relax with a good book or film, but living Wholly Holy lives means considering more carefully what we let into our lives through our eyes. Ask yourself the following questions…. is this making me think about things that are not pleasing to God? is this teaching me more about living a holy life or distracting me from it? is it promoting God’s values ?

What do you think a life full of light would be like?

Notes...

“Holy Spirit, Please make me uncomfortable whenever my eyes are looking at something that is not pleasing to God or consistent with living a Wholly Holy life. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 4. Wholly Holy!:

Doing

Does this sound as if I am trying to win human approval? No indeed! What I want is God’s approval! Am I trying to be popular with people? If I were still trying to do so, I would not be a servant of Christ.

Galatians 1:10 (GNT)

“Dear Diary Two of my close mates in school are getting themselves into trouble.

Yesterday they told me that they went into a newsagent and stole some sweets and chocolate. They said it was so easy - one of them distracted the shop keeper by asking him for something behind the counter, whilst the other one stuffed a couple of chocolate bars into their pocket! After school tomorrow they want me to go with them, as they said that with two of us filling our pockets we can get more stuff from the shop. I know this is not right, but if I say no my friends will make my life miserable……..

What shall I do?”

What would you do?

At school we can be under so much pressure to get involved in things that we know are not pleasing to God. We often feel that we can’t possibly say no as we will end up without any friends or perhaps even being bullied or ridiculed. Being Wholly Holy sometimes means saying no and standing up for what you know is right. Start now and your friends will come to accept and respect you for staying true to what you believe!

Is it more important to you to be popular with God or with people?

Notes...

Make a decision now that you will not get involved in anything that you know is not right or pleasing to God.

Ask God for the courage and faith to take a stand for him!

Seven-4-Seven 5. Wholly Holy!:

Thinking

Finally, my friends, keep your minds on whatever is true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper. Don’t ever stop thinking about what is truly worthwhile and worthy of praise……. Then the God of peace will be with you.

Don’t copy the behaviour and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.

Philippians 4:8 (CEV)

Romans 12:2 (NLT)

This is a picture of a famous statue called ‘The Thinker’, created in 1903 in Paris. It shows a man thinking very deeply about something, perhaps even battling inside himself with his mix up of thoughts and emotions.

What are your thoughts like? Are you a clear thinker, or a jumble of emotions? Do you think negatively about yourself or others? Do you worry or get anxious? Troubling thoughts can hold us back from being the people that God has made us to be and from living his way. Paul tells us in these verses to spend time thinking pure, right and holy thoughts so that we can have God’s peace in our lives. By changing the way we think we can become transformed people, ready to live Wholly Holy everyday! http://www.crowdoutaids.org/solutions/

Draw some thought bubbles around the picture above and write in it some of your most frequent thoughts. Consider if they are true, pure, right, holy, friendly, and proper thoughts?

If you are having troubling thoughts, decide now to speak to a good Christian friend who can help you and pray with you to be ‘transformed by the renewing of your mind.’

(Write his/her name here..................................................)

Ask God to begin to ‘transform you into a new person by changing the way you think.’ Tell him about the thoughts you have that trouble you and ask the Holy Spirit to fill your thoughts with his peace and love.

Seven-4-Seven 6. Wholly Holy!:

Valuing

Don’t store treasures for yourselves here on earth where moths and rust will destroy them and thieves can break in and steal them. But store your treasures in heaven where they cannot be destroyed by moths or rust and where thieves cannot break in and steal them. Your heart will be where your treasure is….

Seek first God’s kingdom and what God wants. Then all your other needs will be met as well.

Matthew 6:20-21, 33 (NCV)

Imagine your house is burning down and you have just a few minutes to save a couple of items (excluding humans and pets!). What would you grab?

The things you have written here are probably the things that you most value. Matthew is telling us in the above verses that the things that we value the most will be where our heart is….in other words, will be what we spend our money on, think about the most and give our time too. If we want to live holy lives we must be sure that the things we value the most are not possessions, money or hobbies, but are the values and priorities of God’s kingdom. Always remember that the Bible promises us that if we put God first in everything, then he will always provide for us and make our lives complete! An amazing promise!

Read the last two sentences of the Bible passage again and then paraphrase it here (rewrite it in your own words!)

Notes...

How can you ‘seek God’ first today?

“Dear God, Thank you that if I live my life for you, you have promised to provide everything I need and make my life complete. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 7. Wholly Holy!:

Holy Spirit Holiness

The Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything and make you remember all that I have told you.

John 14:26 (GNT) God’s Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled…..And because we belong to Christ Jesus, we have killed our selfish feelings and desires. God’s Spirit has given us life, and so we should follow the Spirit.

Galatians 5:22-25 (CEV)

How many things have you done so far today that needed a power source? e.g charged your phone, made some toast, listened to a CD………..what else?

The Holy Spirit is our power source – we can do what pleases God because his Spirit gives us the power! He is our life and strength. The Holy Spirit within us brings our relationship with God alive and enables us to pray and understand what we read in the bible! The Holy Spirit teaches us how to live, guides and encourages us and helps us live as disciples of Jesus everyday. In a way that we cannot do on our own, the Holy Spirit will build into our lives love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control! God asks us to rely on him to produce these qualities in our lives. The Holy Spirit inside us is how we can be truly Wholly Holy!

What do you know about the Holy Spirit, either from your own experience or from reading the Bible?

Notes...

Circle one word from the above Bible passages that you would like the Holy Spirit to bring more of in your life.

Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to come into your life, fill you to overflowing, and guide and encourage you as you live for Jesus every day!

Seven-4-Seven May 2012:

A college professor stood before his class of 20 biology students, about to hand out the final exam. ‘I want to say that it’s been a pleasure teaching you this term. I know you’ve all worked extremely hard and many of you are off to medical school after the summer holiday.

Quiet Please – Exams In Progress!

So that no one gets their overall grades messed up because they might have been celebrating a bit too much this week, anyone who would like to opt out of the final exam today will receive a B for the course.’

There was much rejoicing among the class as students got up, passed by the professor to thank him and sign out on his offer. As the last taker left the room, the professor looked out over the handful of remaining students and asked, ‘Anyone else? This is your last chance.’ One final student rose up and took the offer.

May

The professor closed the door and took attendance of those students remaining. ‘I’m glad to see you believe in yourself,’ he said. ‘You all have A’s.’

It’s that time of year…your school has probably gone exam crazy! Every corridor has a sign up saying ‘Quiet Please – Exams in Progress’; previously cheerful year 11’s look pale and drawn; you can’t get to your locker; your teachers are not in the right place at the right time….and if you have a family member taking exams at the moment, home may not be as relaxing as it used to be!

If you’re in year 7 then you’re unlikely to be taking GCSE’s at the moment, but you may have other exams and tests coming up, whether that’s formal exams, class tests, or perhaps things out of school, such as musical instrument exams, or even sports trials.

So how do you cope with tests or exams?

•

Do you take them all in your stride, or do you get worried and anxious?

•

Do you put in a lot of work, or just hope you can ‘wing it’?

•

Do you usually end up top of the class…..or somewhere nearer the bottom?

•

Are you usually confident that you will pass, or eaten up by a fear of failure?

In this month’s Seven-4-Seven we are going to look at some essential scriptures for exam survival! The Bible tells us over and over that God is with us in all situations and, at exam time, we really need to hear this! Of course, it’s absolutely essential that we work hard to prepare for our exams and put in the time and energy required so that we can perform to the best of our ability (look back at February’s Seven-4Seven for more on this!).

But it’s just as important to take time to pray, to ask God for help, to put our trust and confidence in him, and be filled with his peace and energy! And of course, we definitely need to understand that, no matter what the result of our test; God will still love us and has good plans for our lives!

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

At the end of all seven days, there is a page of encouraging Bible verses. These are included for you to print and cut out, then stick up around your room / house! Take time to read some of them every day, memorise some so the words are always with you, believe and accept the words as God’s truth for your life, and let them fill you with courage, strength, peace and wisdom for whatever situation you are facing!

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven. A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps!

Seven-4-Seven 1. Quiet Please –

Exams In Progress!: Worry and Fear

So don’t worry, because I am with you.

Don’t be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you.

Isaiah 41:10 (NCV) Worry and fear can be one of the biggest reasons why people don’t do as well as they could do in a test. In this one Bible verse there are five promises as to why we shouldn’t worry or be afraid about anything in our lives…and that includes exams! i. “I am with you!”

You are not alone. God is always beside you. You will not go anywhere without God being there. ….even in the exam room! ii. “I am your God!” The great “I am” is your God! We are talking here about God…who created everything and keeps the whole world spinning! He is yours and you are his! And just think….he is with you in your exams! iii. “I will make you strong!”

When you feel exhausted and don’t feel you can continue, you can rely on God’s strength to keep you going. He will make you strong enough to get through any situation you have to face. iv. “I will help you!”

Not only does God have the strength to help, he also has the ability to help. He will help you with wisdom and understanding, guide you in your revision and in your preparation; and definitely help you in the exams! v. “I will support you!”

There is no fear of falling with God to hold you up! God is true and faithful - and he will always be there!

Which one of these five promises do you need to hear most at the moment and why?

Notes...

Memorise Isaiah 41:10 Thank God for all the promises in this Bible verse and ask him to make them more real for you everyday.

Seven-4-Seven 2. Quiet Please –

Exams In Progress!: Pray!

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

1 Thess 5:17 (The Message)

Do you know anyone who is a real chatterbox and who never stops talking?! Can get kind of annoying at times can’t it? But God wants us to be chatterboxes with him! This verse tells us to ‘pray all the time’! We can talk to God about anything and everything, and he is interested in what we’ve got to say! And talking to God about our exams can help us feel more confident and peaceful, which then helps us focus better on what we have learned!

So what can you talk to God about during exam time? Well, while there is probably no prayer that will get you an ‘A’ on a test that you haven’t prepared for, you can tell God about how you are feeling, what you are worried about, ask him for his help, and fill him in when things go well! You can ask him to be with you as you prepare and study, and if you get stuck in the middle of the test you can ask God to help you recall the information that you need! Be a chatterbox!

Some prayer ideas!

• Give out your exam / test date(s) to your family and other friends and ask them to pray for you.

• If you have friends taking the same exam or test, make some time to pray together.

• Write out a prayer and stick it up beside your bed… pray it regularly!

• Use the Bible verses at the end as prayers.

• Create a prayer notice board. Write out your prayers on post - it notes and stick them up as you pray!

A prayer for exams!

“Lord, today I am just really stressed. You know, Lord, that I am having some trouble with the test I am about to take. I know it’s probably not the biggest world problem, with people starving, people turning away from you, people in wars, and more. But, Lord, it’s what I’m facing right now, and I need you in this time. I know that no problem is too big or too small for you to handle, and I need to turn this stress over to you to help me with.

Lord, please help me as I prepare. Help me to focus. Help me to look at this information so I can remember and apply it well on my exam. I need you to help me feel more confident going into the test and feel relaxed enough so that I can concentrate. Give me peace, and help me to do my best. Let me be aware of you beside me in the exam, encouraging and supporting me through it.

Lord, thank you for all the blessings you have placed in my life. Thank you for being here in this time when I feel a bit overwhelmed. Thank you for always being there and allowing me to rely on you. Thank you that, whatever happens, I will never be a failure in you eyes. I know that you have good plans for me and you will always love me.

Amen.

Seven-4-Seven 3. Quiet Please –

Exams In Progress!: Peace!

Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.

Philippians 4:6-7 (CEV) I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world can give. So don’t be worried or afraid.

You, Lord, give true peace to those who depend on you, because they trust you.

Isaiah 26:3 (NCV)

John 14:27(CEV) “I just need some peace and quiet!”

Bet you’ve heard your parents or carers say that to you plenty of times! Perhaps what they really mean is “Will you please just go away and leave me alone for a few minutes….I can’t hear myself think!”

On an internet image search ‘Peace of God.’ Find a picture that helps you to feel peaceful, then print it out or set it as your wallpaper on your phone / computer. Whenever you start to feel anxious, take some time to look at it and allow God’s peace to fill your heart again!

When the Bible talks about ‘peace’ though, it means something quite different. Peace is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22) and it means that somewhere, deep within our hearts, we feel confident, calm and untroubled. We don’t get this peace by just trying not to get anxious or think positive thoughts. Neither is this peace about experiencing life without and stress, trouble or worries. When we trust and depend on God, the Holy Spirit fills us with his amazing gift of peace in a way that we can’t understand. When other people wonder why we are not getting anxious or worried by the difficult situations around us, we know that we are experiencing the peace of God!

In what area of your life do you need God’s peace right now?

Notes...

“Dear God, At the moment I am really worried about …..........................................................................................................

Right now I want to give this worry to you and ask you to fill me with your true peace. (Wait for a little while in silence, focusing on God, and expect him to answer your prayer!) Amen

Seven-4-Seven 4. Quiet Please –

Exams In Progress!: Sleep!

I sleep and wake up refreshed because you, LORD, protect me.

Psalm 3:5 (CEV) I can lie down and sleep soundly because you, LORD, will keep me safe.

Psalm 4:8 (CEV)

Could you sleep well if you knew an enemy army was gathering to attack you?!

That’s exactly the situation that David was in when he wrote these words!

Sleep doesn’t often come easy during exam time…. worry and nerves, as well as last minute revision, can keep our minds racing and our bodies wide awake! Perhaps it feels like an impending battle! But David was able to sleep peacefully ‘cos he knew that God was in control! We can too!

Did you know that a good night’s sleep keeps your body healthy, reduces your feelings of stress, makes you more alert, and even boosts your memory! All really important when we are about to take an exam!

Work out a helpful ‘bedtime routine’ that gives you plenty of time to relax and wind down before trying to get to sleep. Be sure to include a prayer like the one below……!

“Dear God, I have had a busy day, my mind is racing with thoughts of …..........................................................................................................

Please fill me again with your peace and help me to have a relaxing and refreshing nights sleep. I trust you with whatever tomorrow may bring! Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 5. Quiet Please –

Exams In Progress!: Wisdom

Trust the Lord with all your heart, and don’t depend on your own understanding.

Remember the Lord in all you do, and he will give you success.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NCV) If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you. God is generous and won’t correct you for asking.

James 1:5 (CEV) Have a read of some of these funny answers that students wrote in their exams!

• The people who followed the Lord were called the 12 opossums.

• The spinal column is a long bunch of bones. The head sits on the top and you sit on the bottom.

• The inhabitants of Moscow are called Mosquitoes.

• The blood circulates through the body by flowing down one leg and up the other.

Asking God for wisdom doesn’t mean he will supernaturally give you answers to exam questions which you haven’t prepared for!

How can God’s wisdom help you during exam time?

Notes...

• (Define H2O and CO2.) H2O is hot water and CO2 is cold water.

• Mushrooms always grow in damp places, which is why they look like umbrellas.

• Name the four seasons: Salt, mustard, pepper, vinegar.

• Noah’s wife was Joan of Ark. • For a nosebleed: Put the nose much lower than the body until the heart stops.

(Yes, these really are real exam answers!)

God’s is ‘all-knowing’. He is wise beyond words. And he offers to share his wisdom with us! God’s wisdom can help us make right decisions and discover the best course of action to take. It’s great to know that when we have exams or tests we don’t have to just rely on ourselves. Sure, we have to put in the work, but the God who knows everything is our Father! Asking God for his advice and wisdom, and not just relying on our own cleverness, is a sure recipe for success!

Solomon, who was the wisest man that ever lived, said: “All wisdom comes from the Lord, and so do common sense and understanding.”

(Proverbs 2:6) In what areas do you need more:

wisdom

Pray about this now!

common sense

understanding

Seven-4-Seven 6. Quiet Please –

Exams In Progress!: Energy

The Lord gives strength to those who are weary.

Even young people get tired, then stumble and fall.

But those who trust the Lord will find new strength.

They will be strong like eagles soaring upward on wings; they will walk and run without getting tired.

Isaiah 40:29 – 31 (CEV) I can do all things through Christ, because he gives me strength.

Philippians 4:13 (NCV)

School can get pretty tiring… the endless routine of lessons, homework, and the awful sound of the alarm clock soooooo early in the morning! It can be especially tiring if you are preparing for or taking tests or exams – and this is just the time when you need the most energy and focus.

These Bible verses tell us that we can find extra strength and energy in God…enough to soar like an eagle, enough to keep running until we finish the race! God is never too tired or too busy to help and listen.

His strength is our source of strength. When you feel that you can’t go another step, read another word, or write another paragraph, remember that you can call on God to fill you with energy!

Have you seen any of the adverts for Lucozade’s new Revive drink? One advert features a dancer supposedly so full of energy (from the Revive drink obviously!) that he is emitting coloured particles in a brilliant pattern!

Try to imagine God filling you with his energy like this!

(Search “Lucozade revive witness my revival” on You Tube to see the advert!)

Buy a bottle of Lucozade today and, as you drink it, ask God to ‘revive’ you and fill you with his strength and energy!

“God, I’m in real need of a burst of energy right now. Please fill me with your Holy Spirit and with your extraordinary energy! Amen

Seven-4-Seven 7. Quiet Please –

Exams In Progress!: Celebrate!

Celebrate and worship his holy name with all your heart.

1 Chronicles 16:10 God had made the people very happy, and so on that day they celebrated and offered many sacrifices. The women and children joined in the festivities, and joyful shouts could be heard far from the city of Jerusalem.

Nehemiah 12:43 With all my heart, I will celebrate, and I can safely rest.

Psalm 16:9

May the LORD bless his people with peace and happiness and let them celebrate.

You are my strong shield, and I trust you completely. You have helped me, and I will celebrate and thank you in song.

Psalm 64:10

Psalm 28:7 “Celebrate good times, come on! (Let’s celebrate) Celebrate good times, come on! (Let’s celebrate)” Let me hear you……!

“There’s a party goin’ on right here A celebration to last throughout the years So bring your good times, and your laughter too We’re gonna celebrate your party with you.”

God loves a party! There are loads of places in the Bible where he tells his people to celebrate the good things that have happened in their lives. Through the celebration people were naturally drawn to thank and praise God for all his blessings in their lives.

So, how are you going to celebrate and thank God for all his help and support in your life? Start planning a party now, maybe for the end of your exams or when your test is over! Make this party one where you and your friends can not only enjoy each others company and have fun, but also thank God together for his faithfulness to you!

Use this prayer from Psalm 16 to thank God and celebrate! (Rewrite it in your own words if you want to! Maybe even use this prayer at your party!)

You Lord, are all I want! You are my choice, and you keep me safe.

You make my life pleasant, and my future is bright.

I praise you, Lord for being my guide. Even in the darkest night, your teachings fill my mind.

I will always look to you, as you stand beside me and protect me from fear.

With all my heart, I will celebrate, and I can safely rest.

Seven-4-Seven 7. Quiet Please –

Exams In Progress!: Celebrate! continued...

So don’t worry, because I am with you.

Don’t be afraid, because I am your God. I will make you strong and will help you; I will support you with my right hand that saves you.

Isaiah 41:10 (NCV) I sleep and wake up refreshed because you, Lord, protect me Psalm 3:5 (CEV)

Trust the Lord with all your heart, and don’t depend on your own understanding.

Remember the LORD in all you do, and he will give you success

You, Lord, give true peace to those who depend on you, because they trust you.

Proverbs 3:5-6 (NCV)

Isaiah 26:3 (NCV)

I can do all things through Christ, because he gives me strength.

Be cheerful no matter what; pray all the time; thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God wants you who belong to Christ Jesus to live.

1 Thess 5:17 (The Message)

Philippians 4:13 (NCV)

I give you peace, the kind of peace that only I can give. It isn’t like the peace that this world can give. So don’t be worried or afraid.

If any of you need wisdom, you should ask God, and it will be given to you. God is generous and won’t correct you for asking.

John 14:27(CEV)

James 1:5 (CEV)

I can lie down and sleep soundly because you, Lord, will keep me safe.

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Psalm 4:8 (CEV)

The Lord gives strength to those who are weary.

Even young people get tired, then stumble and fall.

But those who trust the Lord will find new strength.

They will be strong like eagles soaring upward on wings; they will walk and run without getting tired.

Don’t worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God. Then, because you belong to Christ Jesus, God will bless you with peace that no one can completely understand. And this peace will control the way you think and feel.

Isaiah 40:29 – 31 (CEV)

Proverbs 2:6 (CEV)

God cares for you, so turn all your worries over to him.

The lazy will not get what they want, but those who work hard will.

In all the work you are doing, work the best you can. Work as if you were doing it for the Lord, not for people.

Proverbs 13:4 (NCV)

Colossians 3:23 (NCV)

1 Peter 5:7 (CEV)

Philippians 4:6-7 (CEV) “All wisdom comes from the Lord, and so do common sense and understanding.”

Seven-4-Seven June 2012:

Thirteen year old Elmas Kassa lives in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

I’ll Fight

June

“I collect water four times a day in a 20 litre clay jar.

Its hard work.” Elmas Kassa said. “I have never been to school as I have to help my mother so we can earn enough money. Our house doesn’t have a bathroom so I wash once a week and go to the toilet down by the river behind my house. I usually go with my friends as we’re supposed to go after dark when people can’t see us.” http://www.wateraid.org/uk/learn_zone/homework/meet_some_ of_the_children_we_work_with/777.asp

We live in a beautiful world with some big problems. Billions of people live in poverty, struggling with hunger, thirst, a lack of education or healthcare, trafficked away from their homes or affected by our changing climate. Millions more are affected by natural disasters such as earthquakes, tsunami’s, floods and droughts.

The Salvation Army has always been an organisation rooted in the fight for social justice, in our country and around the world.

Our mission is to resource, empower and support developing communities to defeat poverty and injustice and enable them to build a better life and future.

The poorest in our world, that’s 1.4 billion people, live on less than about 80 pence a day. Imagine having just 80 pence to cover all your food, water, clothing, children’s education, healthcare and anything else that you need to provide for yourself and your family.

Social justice is a massive and complex issue but put simply it is the idea that the world and everyone in it can live equal, safe and dignified lives. It means that it is not acceptable that people should live in the world today without basic human rights, such as access to food, clean water, shelter, education, healthcare and the opportunity to work.

But sadly, and unfairly, millions of people do live in real povertylike this; for example, nearly one billion people don’t have something as basic as clean water. It’s not right. It’s not fair. It’s not just.

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Although these problems are big, our God is bigger. Even better than that, he is a God who cares about those living in poverty and he wants us to care about those people to.

Many organisations, communities and individuals feel so passionately about this that they are doing what they can to ‘fight’ for people living in such poverty who often can’t make the changes they need to without some support and help.

1

H2p4 Our World

So in this month’s Seven-4-Seven we are going to see why and how we can get involved in the fight for social justice. We will look God’s heart for the poor and what he expects of us, his disciples. We will think about two of the many campaigns that The Salvation Army is running at the moment to support some of the world’s most vulnerable people.

We hope that you will feel compassion, inspiration and motivation to get involved and join the fight for social justice in our world. After all, it’s what Jesus did when he was here on earth….and he tells us that whatever we do for the lowest and poorest in the world, we are actually doing for him!

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven. A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful, and maybe a journal so you can jot down your action points…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps!

Seven-4-Seven 1. I’ll Fight - God

of Compassion

The Lord raises the poor up from the dust, and he lifts the needy from the ashes. He lets the poor sit with princes and receives a throne of honour.

1 Samuel 2:8

He will rescue the poor when they cry to him; he will help the oppressed, who have no one to defend them.

Psalm 72:12 Our LORD, I know that you defend the homeless and see that the poor are given justice.

Psalm 140: 12

“Give generously to the poor, not grudgingly, for the Lord your God will bless you in everything you do.”

Deuteronomy 15:10 Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honours God

Proverbs 14:31 The story is told of a young bible college student who decided that he would go through his Bible and cut out every reference that mentioned justice and the poor. He started in Genesis and worked his way all the way through to Revelation. When he had finished this task his Bible hung in threads. It wouldn’t hold together, it literally fell apart in his hands. The Bible has a lot to say about justice and the poor; in fact it is one of the most frequently spoken about issues in the Bible, with over one thousand references. Just a few of those verses have been included above!

Time and again God shows his compassion and love for the poor and marginalised people in society and in the world. Justice is at the heart of who God is and what God does. As God’s people we must also be filled with such compassion and care that moves us to action!

Which of the verses above do you think best describes how much God cares about the poor? Circle or highlight it.

How much do you care about the poor?

Notes...

“Dear God, Thank you that you love everyone in the world, especially those who are poor or struggling in some way. Help me to show people how much you care for them. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 2. I’ll Fight

- Jesus’ Mission

“The Lord has put his Spirit in me, because he appointed me to tell the Good News to the poor. He has sent me to tell the captives they are free and to tell the blind that they can see again. God sent me to free those who have been treated unfairly and to announce the time when the Lord will show his kindness.”

Jesus closed the book, gave it back to the assistant, and sat down.

Everyone in the synagogue was watching Jesus closely. He began to say to them, “While you heard these words just now, they were coming true!”

(Luke 4:18-21 NCV) The words that Jesus spoke in these verses were prophecies from the Old Testament. These words also define Jesus’ mission, the reason he came to earth, and through his life we see a dramatic example of God’s heart for the poor. Jesus was born in poverty; he was homeless; and a refugee. He spent time with all sorts of people from the powerful to the powerless. He befriended the lonely, fed the hungry, healed the sick and encouraged the broken hearted. He enjoyed being with people that the rest of society overlooked and he spoke passionately for the inclusion of all people in God’s kingdom. He even told a story about a banquet that the poor people were invited to in preference to those that the world would see as more respectable! (Luke 14)

What do you think Jesus meant by the last sentence in the above Bible passage: “While you heard these words just now, they were coming true!”? (If you’re not sure, ask someone… it’s important!)

Notes...

Hint: Other versions say “What you have just heard me read has come true today” (CEV) and “Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing” (NIV)

How can you ‘free’ someone today who has been ‘treated unfairly’?

“Lord Jesus, help me to follow your example and allow my life to be a demonstration for your love and justice, care and compassion for the most broken people in my community and in the world. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 3. I’ll Fight

- ‘I’ll Fight!

But you must defend those who are helpless and have no hope.

Be fair and give justice to the poor and homeless.

(Proverbs 31:8-9 CEV) “While women weep, as they do now, I’ll fight; while children go hungry, as they do now I’ll fight; while men go to prison, in and out, in and out, as they do now, I’ll fight; while there is a drunkard left, while there is a poor lost girl upon the streets, while there remains one dark soul without the light of God, I’ll fight, I’ll fight to the very end!”

(William Booth 1912)

Right at the beginning of The Salvation Army, the founders William and Catherine Booth, were so moved by the plight of the poor people in East London where the were working that they put their faith into action. They quickly realised that people who were struggling to feed or clothe their children, or who didn’t have anywhere safe and clean to live or work, would find it difficult to hear and accept the message of the Gospel. Their approach to mission changed and the three S’s became the mantra of The Salvation Army. ….. first soup, then soap, and finally salvation!

William Booth also wrote a shocking book detailing the poverty that he saw in Britain and members of The Salvation Army campaigned and worked tirelessly to help people to find work, search for missing relatives, find shelter in a hostel or buy tools and set up a new trade with a small loan. Within nine years of the book being published, The Salvation Army in the UK had served 27 million cheap meals, traced 7,000 missing people, provided shelter for 11 million homeless people and found jobs for 90,000 unemployed people!

How were William and Catherine Booth living out the words of Proverbs 31 that we read above?

Read the famous words of William Booth’s “I’ll Fight’ speech above.

How could you ‘fight’ for the poor in our world today?

Notes...

“Dear God, Thank you that I am part of a church that has a long history in social action and still cares deeply for the poor around the world today. Please show me how I should get involved in the fight for justice as the Booths did and many Salavtion Army members are still doing today. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 4. I’ll Fight

- Farm

There are 1 billion people going hungry in our world.

1 billion more suffer from ‘Hidden Hunger’ – where they don’t have enough of the vitamins and minerals they need for a healthy, balanced diet.

The majority of those going hungry are actually poor farmers in some of the poorest countries in the world.

Yet there is actually more than enough food to feed everyone on the planet. In our country 10 billion pounds’ worth of food is thrown away every year.

The Salvation Army is helping these small-scale, rural farmers so that their produce can increase and they then have enough food for themselves and their families, as well as to sell.

The Salvation Army is helping these people in a number of ways: Watch the ‘FARM’ campaign film on You Tube http://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=63b_DjjFwfg&list=PL9A85 0E068F2B297B&index=1&feature= plpp_video or on The Salvation Army website http://www.salvationarmy. org.uk/uki/farm

•

By providing animals and training people to care for them

•

By helping local farmers to improve their skills, also providing tools, training and other resources.

•

For example, in Etuo village, China, goats have been provided to the community as part of a wider programme helping to improve the lives and livelihoods of the community. These animals can then be used for breeding or to provide milk and meat for their families. Villagers agree to pass on some of the goat kids to other families in need, ensuring the project keeps on expanding after the initial goats are given.

Take action to eat ethically – buying Fairtrade, growing your own, eating seasonably and wasting less can all help you to have a positive impact. The food you choose to eat can have a knock-on effect for farmers around the world.

Look on the FARM website to find out loads of other ways to get involved in this campaign.

Pray for the poor people in the world who do not have enough to eat whilst so many of us have far more than wee need. Pray for courage and strength for the many people who are campaigning and working tirelessly on their behalf.

Seven-4-Seven 5. I’ll Fight

- Earth

Our climate is changing Our actions are causing it The world’s poorest people are already suffering as a result Right now, there are 324 million people severely affected by climate change.

As a result, this year, over 300 000 people will die.

But we can do something about it.

Watch the ‘EARTH’ campaign film on You Tube http://www.youtube. com/watch?feature=player_ embedded&v=LkNSaIlo-MI or The Salvation Army website http:// www.salvationarmy.org.uk/uki/earth

There is just one Earth that we all have to live on. Unfortunately if everybody in the world lived in the same way that we do in the UK and in other high-income countries, we would need three planets to support us. That means we are using up far more than our fair share of our world’s natural resources and doing so at an unrealistic and unsustainable rate.

Our actions are also already affecting some of our world’s poorest and most vulnerable people. Our choice of transportation, the food we eat and the energy we use all come at a far higher cost than it appears to be at face value. We are all part of the same Earth, the only Earth that we have. We are all connected and we all need to take responsibility for loving the Earth and everything in it.

The Salvation Army is involved in a number of projects that are helping provide those people on our Earth who are the most vulnerable with the resources to make the best and most responsible use of our natural resources and adapt to our world’s changing climate. It is involved in sustainable and renewable energy sources such as wind power, solar power and biogas, and is involved in tree planting in a number of communities all around the world such as Malawi, China, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

We all need to take action to protect our Earth and all the people in it. Make changes in your own life to reduce your personal impact on our Earth by reducing the amount of energy that you use, the amount of waste you produce and the amount of fuel heavy transport you use. Look on the website to find out loads of other ways to get involved in this campaign

Thank God for creating a beautiful world for us. Commit yourself to doing whatever you can to looking after it.

Stop Climate Chaos: The Salvation Army is a member of the Stop Climate Chaos coalition, the UK’s largest group of people dedicated to action on climate change and limiting its impact on the world’s poorest communities. Visit www.stopclimatechaos.org for all the latest ideas on how to get involved with making sure that decision makers act to protect our Earth and all the people in it.

Seven-4-Seven 6. I’ll Fight

34 “Then the King will say to the people on his right, ‘Come, my Father has given you his blessing. Receive the kingdom God has prepared for you since the world was made. 35 I was hungry, and you gave me food. I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. I was alone and away from home, and you invited me into your house. 36 I was without clothes, and you gave me something to wear. I was sick, and you cared for me. I was in prison, and you visited me.’

37 “Then the good people will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and give you food, or thirsty and give you something to drink? 38 When did we see you alone and away from home and invite you into our house? When did we see you without clothes and give you something to wear? 39 When did we see you sick or in prison and care for you?’

40 “Then the King will answer, ‘I tell you the truth, anything you did for even the least of my people here, you also did for me.’

41 “Then the King will say to those on his left, ‘Go away from me. You will be punished. Go into the fire that burns forever that was prepared for the devil and his angels. 42 I was hungry, and you gave me nothing to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me nothing to drink. 43 I was alone and away from home, and you did not invite me into your house. I was without clothes, and you gave me nothing to wear. I was sick and in prison, and you did not care for me.’

44 “Then those people will answer, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or alone and away from home or without clothes or sick or in prison? When did we see these things and not help you?’ 45 “Then the King will answer, ‘I tell you the truth, anything you refused to do for even the least of my people here, you refused to do for me.’

- You do it for me!

This is a long Bible passage so it may be worth going back and reading it again. Circle, underline or highlight and words or sentences that really stand out to you.

Ephesians 2:10 (CEV)

Which one of the above statistics really gets to you the most?

Why?

•

Have we fed the hungry when more than 850 million people around the world suffer from chronic hunger and malnutrition?

•

Have we given a drink to the thirsty when over 1 billion people lack clean water or adequate sanitation?

•

Have we given shelter to the homeless when 640 million children in the developing world go without basic shelter?

•

Have we helped the sick when in just one day over 26 000 children under five die, one every three seconds, that equals over 10 million children?

•

Have we visited the prisoner when there are hostages and prisoners of war all over the world? (Statistics from Homes for Hope http://www.hopeinternational.org/site/ PageServer?pagename=hms_poverty_statistics)

Ask God to show you how he feels about the poor and the injustices that are going on around the world today. Pray that these feelings will motivate you to action.

Seven-4-Seven 7. I’ll Fight

- Who me?

The Lord God has told us what is right and what he demands: “See that justice is done, let mercy be your first concern, and humbly obey your God.”

Micah 6:8 (CEV)

The Story of the Starfish A father and his son were walking along a deserted beach after a particularly high tide had washed up thousands of starfish on to the sand. The boy started picking them up and throwing them back into the water one by one.

The father quizzed his son saying “You can’t possibly save them all, there are millions, you can’t possibly make a difference” The boy smiled, bent down and picked up another starfish and as he threw it back into the sea, he replied, “Made a difference to that one.”

I am only one, But still I am one.

I cannot do everything; But still I can do something; And because I cannot do everything I will not refuse to do the something that I can do.

(Edward Everett Hale)

What issue of injustice in the world bothers you right now?

Where (or who) can you go to find out more information on this issue?

Who do you know (individual or organisation) that is already campaigning and / or working in this area?

What one practical thing can you do to get involved?

When are you going to do it?!

Dear God, I feel passionatley about………………………….., but I also feel helpless in the face of such a huge issue in the world. Please help me to understand that I can play my part, however small, in the fight for justice and to make the world a better place for us all to live in.

Amen.

Seven-4-Seven July 2012:

A man was going along in the desert in Australia when his car suddenly stopped. Nothing he could do would get it to go, so he got out and started to walk. He walked and walked and walked and soon he was feeling terribly, terribly thirsty. Finally he saw, coming into view, a little old shack by the side of the road. He staggered to the door and shouted ‘”Water, water, water.”

The Future’s Bright!

A man popped his head out the window and said, “Sorry pal, I only sell ties.”

So the man walked and he walked and he walked. By now his mouth was completely dried up. Then, coming into view, he saw another little old shack by the side of the road. He staggered up to the door and shouted, “Water, water, water.”

A man popped his head out the window and said, “Sorry pal, I only sell ties.”

July

So the man walked on. Finally he couldn’t walk anymore, so he crawled. He crawled and he crawled and he crawled till, coming into view, he saw a hotel.

There by the side of the road, right in the middle of the desert, was the Hotel Splendid. And a really splendid hotel it was, with a man in uniform standing on the steps outside.

The man crawled up to the steps and gasped, “At last. Water, water, water.”

And the man in uniform said, “Sorry pal, you can’t come in here dressed like that.

You’re not wearing a tie.”1

In the early 2000’s one of the most famous advertising slogans belonged to Orange.

“The future’s bright – the future’s Orange” It became extremely well known, so much so that in its later years the second half of the slogan tended to be dropped as unnecessary, leaving the expression that you may still hear….. “the futures bright!”

So, how do you feel about the future? Perhaps you haven’t yet given it a lot of thought. One thing is for certain though; the future can be one thing that causes us concern. We can worry that we may make wrong decisions now that may affect the rest of our lives. (I should have bought that tie!) We may be concerned that we will end up lonely…. living with our parents forever…..and we’ve all heard on the news how difficult it is to get a job these days. We may have dreams and desires but have no idea how to go about fulfilling them. And maybe at school they have started giving you ‘careers advice’ and telling you how important it is to make the right choices at school to give yourself the most successful future.

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Well, the good news is that for us as Christians, our future really is bright (and we don’t need a mobile phone to make it so!). God has a plan for our lives! And it’s not just about the future. In this month’s Seven-4-Seven we are going to look at some Bible verses that tell us how important we are to God and how he has got everything under control! God’s got our lives in his hands and his plans for us are great. If we stick close to him we have a really bright future indeed!

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven. A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps!

1

from Fantastically Funny Stories by Michael Rosen

Seven-4-Seven 1. The Future’s

Bright! - God Has A Plan!

You are the one who put me together inside my mother’s body, and I praise you because of the wonderful way you created me.

Everything you do is marvellous!

Of this I have no doubt.

Nothing about me is hidden from you!

I was secretly woven together deep in the earth below, but with your own eyes you saw my body being formed.

Even before I was born you had written in your book everything I would do.

Psalm 139:13 – 16 (CEV) God has a plan for your life! He knew you and loved you from even before you were born! Amazing! Before you took even one breath, every day, every step and every circumstance in your plan was recorded.

There is a reason for you being alive and it’s all to do with what God has got lined up for your life!

Maybe other people have a plan for your life - perhaps your parents have decided what career path they want you to take; perhaps your teachers are encouraging you in a certain direction; perhaps you are already excelling in a particular sport or hobby that seems to define your future. But really, the only plan that matters is the plan made for you by God - the one who formed you, the one who loves you, knows you and has chosen you! And it is a great plan!

Nothing about your past, present or future is hidden from God! How does that make you feel?

Notes...

Don’t ever forget that you are alive on this planet for a reason! Ask God what it is!

“Thank you God that you have a plan for my life! Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 2. The Future’s

Bright! - Good Plans

I say this because I know what I am planning for you,” says the Lord. “I have good plans for you, not plans to hurt you. I will give you hope and a good future.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NLT) The Lord will always guide you and provide good things He will make you healthy.

You will be like a garden that has plenty of water or like a stream that never runs dry.

Isaiah 58:11(CEV)

Read these verses again carefully… what has God got planned for you?

Write each thing that you read in a different box.

Good things

Yes, God’s plan for your life is good….in fact, it’s more than good; it’s amazing, fantastic, just right, and way better than you could ever imagine for yourself! That doesn’t mean you won’t ever experience difficulties in life, but by sticking close to God he’ll continually guide you along his amazing plan!

When you read the following two lines, what does it make you think your future will be like?

“You will be like a garden that has plenty of water or like a stream that never runs dry.”

Notes...

Don’t forget, it’s not just about the future……God’s good plans include the here and now!

“God I am excited that you have got some amazing things planned for my life! Help me to stick by you so you can make sure I get where you want me to go! Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 3. The Future’s

Bright! - Hand In Hand

If you do what the Lord wants, he will make certain each step you take is sure. The Lord will hold your hand, and if you stumble, you still won’t fall.

Psalm 37:23-24 (CEV) Does anyone in your family own a Sat Nav? When you go on a journey with a Sat Nav the gadget is always talking to you, telling you exactly which turn to make, giving you warning of what’s coming up and letting you know when you have gone wrong. The Sat Nav never leaves you until “You have reached your destination”… (unless you turn it off of course!)

God doesn’t just make a plan for our life and then sit back and see if we ‘make it’. God is always with us, directing us, encouraging us, keeping us on track, helping us up when we fall, and making certain that ‘each step we take is sure.’ The only condition is that we trust God and be as sure as we possibly can be that we are heading in the right direction …. going with God where his good plans for our lives are leading!

Draw a picture here of two hands linked together.

One is God’s hand, and one is yours!

Now close your eyes and imagine you and God walking hand in hand, out of your front door, down your street, and on into the rest of your life together!

How do you feel?

Notes...

Turn how you feel into a prayer!

Seven-4-Seven 4. The Future’s

Bright! - Joseph

When he was alone with his brothers, he told them, “I am Joseph.”……..

4 Joseph told them to come closer to him, and when they did, he said: “Yes, I am your brother Joseph, the one you sold into Egypt. 5 Don’t worry or blame yourselves for what you did.

God is the one who sent me ahead of you to save lives.

6 There has already been a famine for two years, and for five more years no one will plough fields or harvest grain. 7 But God sent me on ahead of you to keep your families alive and to save you in this wonderful way. 8 After all, you weren’t really the ones who sent me here—it was God. He made me the highest official in the king’s court and placed me over all Egypt.”

Genesis 45: 2; 3-8 (CEV)

19 But Joseph told them, “Don’t be afraid! I have no right to change what God has decided. 20 You tried to harm me, but God made it turn out for the best, so that he could save all these people, as he is now doing.

Genesis 50: 19 – 20 (NCV)

Remember Joseph? As a young boy he had a dream…..literally! He knew God had special things lined up for his life. But it didn’t go as Joseph imagined. His brothers hated him and sold him to Egyptian slave traders; in Egypt he ended up in prison for something he didn’t do and he was left there for two years; he was separated from his family and away from his country. But, from the verses above, we can see that through all these twists and turns Joseph continued to trust in God and in God’s plan for his life. He knew God was still with him, even in the bad situations and difficult times that he experienced. Nothing that happened in his life was outside of God’s control or purpose and God ensured that everything turned out ‘for the best’!

Can you think of a hard time that you went through that turned out OK in the end?

“God, thank you that you are working out your plan for my life even in the difficult times when I don’t understand what’s happening. Amen.”

Seven-4-Seven 5. The Future’s

Bright! - Your Heart’s Desire

Trust in the Lord and do good; live in the land and be safe.

Seek your happiness in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desire.

Give yourself to the Lord; trust in him, and he will help you;

Psalm 37:3 – 5 (GNT)

“Hang on a minute….don’t I have any say in the direction of my own life? Do I just follow along like a pre-programmed robot?”

No, of course not. You probably have dreams and desires, things you really enjoy doing, stuff you feel passionate about. You may already know exactly where you want to be in ten years time and already have a good idea of how to get there. Has it occurred to you that it’s possible that God was the one who put those dreams and desires in your heart in the first place? In the Bible verse above it says that if we trust God and put him first in everything we do, he will give us the desires of our heart! This doesn’t mean that we will all become millionaires, pop stars, famous actors, or professional sports players (who hasn’t had a dream like this at least once in their life!??). But it does mean that God’s plan for you includes stuff you enjoy, are good at and feel fulfilled getting involved in!

In who or what do you find happiness?

Notes...

How can you ‘seek your happiness in the Lord?’

Notes...

Do you already have a plan or a dream for your life? Talk it over with an older Christian to be sure that it has come from God! “God, please fill my heart with the same dreams and desires for my life as you have for me and continue to guide me so that they come true in just the way that you have planned! Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 6. The Future’s

Bright! - Fruit Growers

God planned for us to do good things and to live as he has always wanted us to live. That’s why he sent Christ to make us what we are.

Ephesians 2:10 (CEV)

“I am the vine, and you are the branches. If any remain in me and I remain in them, they produce much fruit. But without me they can do nothing. 6 If any do not remain in me, they are like a branch that is thrown away and then dies. People pick up dead branches, throw them into the fire, and burn them.7 If you remain in me and follow my teachings, you can ask anything you want, and it will be given to you.8 You should produce much fruit and show that you are my followers, which brings glory to my Father.9 I loved you as the Father loved me.

Now remain in my love….You did not choose me; I chose you.

And I gave you this work: to go and produce fruit, fruit that will last.

John 15: 5 – 9, 16 (NCV)

Write down your favourite fruits here:

Do you know what plant produces them?

Look at this picture. Write your name somewhere on the branch and Jesus’ name somewhere on the vine stem.

Is that a trick question? Apple trees bear apples. Raspberries grow on raspberry canes. Banana trees produce bananas!

And a grapevine grows grapes! That’s the law of nature. We know certain plants will always produce certain types of fruit.

In this Bible passage Jesus is teaching us that we too should be producing fruit. It’s part of his plan for our lives!

This obviously doesn’t mean that we start sprouting cherries from our ears! The kind of fruit Jesus is talking about are the things that please him in our lives, such as love, kindness, generosity (remember the ‘fruits’ of the spirit?) as well as telling other people about him. When the branches of the grapevine stay closely attached to the vine they receive good nourishment from the main plant and they produce lots of juicy grapes. In our lives we can produce good fruit when we stick close to Jesus and follow his plan!

What sort of fruit are you producing? Draw / or write it on the branch!

Thank God that he has chosen you and given you work to do for him.

Ask him to help you bear much fruit!

Seven-4-Seven 7. The Future’s

Bright! - Use Your Gifts Well

There are different kinds of spiritual gifts, but they all come from the same Spirit. There are different ways to serve the same Lord, and we can each do different things. Yet the same God works in all of us and helps us in everything we do.

1 Cor 12:4-6 (CEV)

Each of you has been blessed with one of God’s many wonderful gifts to be used in the service of others. So use your gift well.

1 Peter 4:10 (CEV) We have already come across one of these verses in Seven-4-Seven…. way back at the beginning when we were thinking about ‘Being Me’.

It fits in here as well though, as when we are talking about discovering God’s plan for our life, the unique gifts and abilities he has given us form an essential part of the plan!

We are all different, and, in line with God’s plan for our lives, he has given each of us different talents and abilities. You may know already the main thing that you excel at and enjoy doing. But if you don’t, that’s OK. Now is the time to experience lots of different things, to see which ones excite you and make you happy. Discover what you feel passionate about or where you can make a difference. You see, God has given us gifts and abilities so we can serve others, as well as give ourselves back to him.

What gifts and / or abilities do you feel God has given you?

Are you using your gifts well? (e.g serving God and others, producing fruit?)

How do you see the gifts and abilities that God has given you being used in his plan for your life? (Again, ask someone if you’re not sure!)

Pray and ‘give back’ your talents and abilities to God. Ask God to help you use them as he wants you to!

Seven-4-Seven August 2012:

Happy Holidays!

Congratulations! You made it to the end of year 7!

And what a year it’s been! Well done!

Well done for successfully coping with all the changes, for making new friends, for finding your way around the school, for learning the names of all the different teachers, for settling into the routine and timetable, for understanding new subjects, for keeping up with your homework, for working hard and giving your best! All of us at ALOVE are very proud of you!

And now the holidays are here….Hooray!!!!!

Aug

Perhaps you just want to crawl under your duvet and not come out for a week or more! Or maybe you want to get out with your friends and P...A...R…T…Y!!! Well, we want to encourage you to really make the most of your time off school this August! Have fun with your friends and family, enjoy time on your own, rest, get some time out and time away from your usual routine!

So this months Seven-4-Seven…the final one of the year…is all about having fun!

Yes, Christians do have fun you know! We will also take some time to review and reflect on this past year’s journey with Seven-4-Seven.

We would love your feedback on Seven-4-Seven, so please do take some time to get in touch and tell us what you think of this resource. You can do this by emailing us at alove@salvationarmy.org.uk or ‘liking’ us on Facebook (ALOVE UK) and sharing your thoughts there.

Don’t forget that you don’t need lots of equipment for Seven-4-Seven. A pen or two will be essential and a Bible extremely useful…..oh, and a copy of Shelf Life so you can make good use of the Shelf Life Bible apps!

Happy Holidays!!!

the holidays are here...

Hooray!

Key to the different Bible translations • (CEV) Contemporary English Version • (NCV) New Century Version • (NLT) New Living Translation • (GNT) Good News Translation

Seven-4-Seven 1. Happy Holidays!

- Fun, Fun, Fun!

“The master was full of praise. ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!”

Matthew 25: 21 (NLT) “I came so that everyone would have life, and have it in its fullest.”

John 10:10 (CEV)

You’ve worked hard this year…so now is the time to have some fun!

Some people think that Christians can’t ever have any fun. Perhaps they think that God’s rules are designed to make us miserable! But we know better don’t we?! God wants us to enjoy life and it’s good to have fun and celebrate. In the Bible we read about people enjoying themselves during the many great celebrations that God instructed them to have.

David danced. The Jews celebrated upon their exodus from Egypt. If you think about it, out of everyone, Christians should be the people who have the most fun in life…..after all Jesus said he came to bring us “life in all its fullness”…so let’s enjoy it!

Write the names of the people who you have the most fun with!

Notes...

Be sure to spend some time with them over the holidays!

“Dear God, thank you that the holidays are finally here! Please help these next few weeks to be full of fun, and help me be a fun person to be around! Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 2. Happy Holidays!

- Jesus at a Party?!

Two days later there was a wedding in the town of Cana in Galilee.

Jesus’ mother was there, and Jesus and his followers were also invited to the wedding. When all the wine was gone, Jesus’ mother said to him, “They have no more wine.”

Jesus answered, “Dear woman, why come to me? My time has not yet come.”

His mother said to the servants, “Do whatever he tells you to do.”

In that place there were six stone water jars that the Jews used in their washing ceremony. Each jar held about twenty or thirty gallons.

Jesus said to the servants, “Fill the jars with water.” So they filled the jars to the top.

Then he said to them, “Now take some out and give it to the master of the feast.”

So they took the water to the master. When he tasted it, the water had become wine. He did not know where the wine came from, but the servants who had brought the water knew. The master of the wedding called the bridegroom and said to him, “People always serve the best wine first. Later, after the guests have been drinking awhile, they serve the cheaper wine. But you have saved the best wine till now.”

So in Cana of Galilee Jesus did his first miracle. There he showed his glory, and his followers believed in him.

Isaiah 58:11(CEV) When we read the Gospels we see so many occasions where Jesus enjoyed hanging out with people and having fun….sharing a meal, playing with children, attending a celebration, taking some time out with close friends. In the Bible passage above Jesus is at a wedding.

Weddings in Jesus’ day were week long festivals! And in the story above we see Jesus celebrating the new life of the married couple with the whole community. And he chose this event to do his first miracle! He turned water into the best wine so that the party could continue! They must have been having a great time!

Can you imagine going to party that lasted for a week?

Notes...

Just as Jesus turned plain old water into the best tasting wine so life with Jesus is a million times better and more fun than life on our own!

“Thank you Jesus that when you lived on earth you enjoyed having fun just as I do. Let’s have some fun together this holiday!. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 3. Happy Holidays!

- Laughter is the Best Medicine!

We laughed, we sang, we couldn’t believe our good fortune.

We were the talk of the nations - who said “God was wonderful to them!”

God was wonderful to us; we are one happy people.

Psalm 126:2-3 (The Message) God will yet fill your mouth with laughter and your lips with shouts of joy.

Job 8:21(CEV)

A happy heart is like good medicine, but a broken spirit drains your strength.

Proverbs 17:22 (NCV) Laughter is the best medicine!

This old saying may have some truth in it. Laughter really does trigger healthy physical changes in the body. Humour and laughter strengthen your immune system, boost your energy, diminish pain, and protect you from the damaging effects of stress.

Have you ever been around someone who is laughing really hard, yet you don’t know why they are laughing, then you start to laugh? You’re laughing; you don’t know why you’re just laughing! Laughter makes you feel good. And the good feeling that you get when you laugh remains with you even after the laughter subsides. Laughing together with your family and friends keeps your relationships good and helps you feel closer to one another. Laughing at your self from time to time stops you from taking life too seriously. So go ahead, have a good laugh this holiday!

Is there any kind of laughter that is not good?

Notes...

What about having fun at someone else’s expense; rude or obscene jokes, making fun of someone, watching inappropriate programmes. Try to avoid these things!

Tell someone a funny joke today!

“Thank you God for laughter. I feel so good after a real great laugh. I enjoy my friends, my family, myself and life so much more when I laugh.

Please let this holiday be one filled with the laughter and joy that you bring into my life, and help me to spread that joy to others! Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 4. Happy Holidays!

- Take Jesus With You!

You know what sort of times we live in, and so you should live properly…… We must stop behaving as people do in the dark and be ready to live in the light. So behave properly, as people do in the day. Don’t go to wild parties or get drunk or be vulgar or indecent. Don’t quarrel or be jealous. Let the Lord Jesus Christ be as near to you as the clothes you wear. Then you won’t try to satisfy your selfish desires.

Romans 13:11 - 14 (CEV)

We have discovered so far that God wants us to have fun, to enjoy life, to celebrate and laugh with family and friends! But of course, there are some boundaries and limits as to what kind of fun can be had. There are some activities that may seem fun but can have long-term physical and spiritual consequences. If the “fun” activity is something that goes completely against God’s clear guidelines, or is selfish and doesn’t consider others, then we should run a mile in the opposite direction!

Never forget that God created us in his image. He knows more about how we can be happy than we do. Sticking within God’s boundaries prevents our fun getting out of control and ensures that we will have nothing to regret the morning after!

What kind of activities do those around you consider fun, that you know is outside of God’s guidelines for us as Christians. e.g. getting drunk, making fun of someone Notes...

Look back over April’s Seven-4-Seven - ‘Wholly Holy’ - and set yourself some clear boundaries as to what ‘fun’ you will not get involved in.

The Bible verse above says “let Jesus be as near to you as the clothes that you wear”. Take Jesus with you when you are enjoying yourself and having fun with friends and family, and ask him to make it clear to you if your fun crosses the line!

“Thank you God that you give me clear guidelines to keep me safe and close to you. Please help me to stick within your guidelines at all times and to avoid any kind of ‘fun’ that will hurt you, me or others. Amen”

Seven-4-Seven 5. Happy Holidays!

- Rest

You, Lord, are my shepherd.

I will never be in need.

You let me rest in fields of green grass.

You lead me to streams of peaceful water, and you refresh my life.

Psalm 37:3 – 5 (GNT)

Holidays are often about rest and relaxation…recharging our batteries ready for the next season of life! In this Bible passage the author is describing how God helps us to rest. He is like a shepherd who guides his sheep to a safe place to drink and eat and rest. But this psalm is not just about physical rest – it is also about rest for us inside; rest from worries and stress. We find this kind of rest through trusting in God’s care and provision. We find peace for our hearts and minds in our relationship with the Great Shepherd.

Do you most need physical rest or emotional rest at the moment?

Notes...

Can you picture a place where you feel most at rest and peace? It may be your bed, or your garden. Perhaps you have a special place where you go on holiday where you always feel relaxed, maybe a beach or a beautiful cliff top view; maybe a meadow or a river bank.

Draw a picture or describe the place here:

If you can, try to spend some time there over the holiday. Lie back, shut your eyes, breathe deeply, and ask God to help you rest, fill you with peace, and refresh you ready for the coming year.

Read the psalm above, changing the words slightly to make it into a prayer. E.g. “Thank you God that you are a great shepherd……

Seven-4-Seven 6. Happy Holidays!

- Closing Words

No, this isn’t a mistake! The box above is left empty on purpose! Take a moment to look or think back over all the Seven-4-Seven’s that you have done this year. Which is your favourite passage from the Bible?

Perhaps you have memorised a verse that has stayed with you, or found one verse that has impacted your life in a special way. Write it in the box above!

Why is this verse special to you?

Notes...

Look at the following picture and imagine you are looking back over your journey with Seven-4-Seven this year.

•

Write on the signpost the name of the topic that you enjoyed the most.

•

Write on the other signpost the topic that you found the most challenging.

•

Draw your own signpost and write on there the topic that has offered you the best piece of advice for year 7.

•

Write on the road something new that you found out about God, about yourself, or about being a Christian.

(We would love to hear your thoughts, answers and any other comments you would like to tell us about Seven-4-Seven! See the details in the introduction for how to get in touch)

Thank God for your journey with him through Seven-4-Seven this year!

Seven-4-Seven 7. Happy Holidays!

- A Closing Prayer!

I kneel in prayer to the Father. All beings in heaven and on earth receive their life from him.

God is wonderful and glorious.

I pray that his Spirit will make you become strong followers and that Christ will live in your hearts because of your faith.

Stand firm and be deeply rooted in his love.

I pray that you and all of God’s people will understand the greatness of Christ’s love—how wide and how long and how high and how deep that love is. I want you to know all about Christ’s love, although it is too wonderful to be measured. Then your lives will be filled with all that God is.

With God’s power working in us, God can do much, much more than anything we can ask or imagine. To him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus for all time, forever and ever.

Amen.

Ephesians 3:14 – 21 (NCV / CEV) “I volunteer as tribute!” screams Katniss Everdeen in the smash hit movie The Hunger Games. (Have you seen the film or read the book?)

With these words Katniss is selflessly exchanging her own life for that of her sister’s. Katniss volunteers to take her sister’s place in the ‘Games’, putting herself up for the terrifying and traumatic ordeal that almost certainly means a horrifying and excruciatingly painful death.

Does that remind you of anything?! The Bible passage above is a prayer for each one of us - that we will understand and experience the vastness of Jesus’ love in our lives; a love so huge that compelled him to take our place on the cross and give his life so that we can live; a love so massive that when we really ‘get it’ our fears and insecurities fade away and our lives make sense!

And this is the prayer that all of us at ALOVE are praying for you at the end of this year. We pray that you will understand and experience the greatness of the love of Jesus and be deeply rooted in this the love.

We pray that you will be strong followers as you seek to live out your faith day by day, and that you will see God do much, much more in and through you than you could ever ask for or imagine!

Highlight any words, sentences of phrases that you like or really mean something to you from this prayer.

Now turn those thoughts into a prayer for your own life…..and for your continued journey with God into year 8!

Is there someone else you would like to pray this prayer for? Write it out on a piece of card and give it to them (or text / email if you prefer!)

Seven-4-Seven

Notes...

Let’s use the space to put our thoughts down

Yeah, good idea!