In the Verse Kit Box:
From home: 5 pieces of bread
Review:
Lesson:
The video below shows hand motions for the verse.
I started by asking if the children remembered the story of Daniel and the lions’ den, and then added that this is the same Daniel, just many years before, when he was still a young man, probably between the ages of 14-21.
Context for lesson:
God’s chosen people that lived in Judah were not following God; they were doing their own thing. God warned them that if they did not turn from their sin and love Him, they would not receive His blessing (which still happens today. When we love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, God blesses us with peace and joy. But when we go our own way, we don’t have God’s blessing.)
A king in another country (Babylon) named Nebuchadnezzar conquered Judah and took captive the best looking young men to serve in his palace. Daniel and 3 of his friends were part of this group. They were to go through 3 years of training, and would be fed the same food and wine that the king himself received.
(and this is where verse 8 comes into play)
Threads to weave into the lesson:
- Following God brings us blessing.
- We should have unsaved friends, but our closest friends should be followers of God so they can help us stand up for what is right.
- Knowing God’s Word helps us to stand up for what is right (Daniel and his friends knew what food and liquid was ok to eat and drink.)
Two Vocabulary Words:
The children had a hard time with the word “purposed.” (Besides mispronouncing it, I also heard “proposed” from one child!) Make sure they understand it means to choose; to decide ahead of time.
Defile was also another new word for most students. I simplified it to “get dirty.” With older kids I added “do something God doesn’t want us to.”
Kit:
1. Use disposable gloves to get one piece of bread and place it in a baggie. This one should not be exposed to any germs at all. Seal the bag.
Label: Not Contaminated
Add the sticker: Daniel 1:8
2. Wipe everyone’s hands on piece #2. Place it in the baggie. Seal the bag.
Label: Hands
Add the sticker: WASH YOUR HANDS!
3. Wash your hands with soap and water and dry thoroughly. Wipe bread #3 on everyone’s hands. Place the piece of bread in a baggie. Seal the bag.
Label: Clean Hands.
Add the sticker: Daniel PURPOSED in his heart to stay pure.
4 and 5. Choose 2 other items in your house (cel phones/refrigerator door/front door knob/bathroom faucet handle). Wipe the bread on these items. Place the bread in the baggies, seal, and label appropriately. Add the following stickers:
Daniel didn’t demand to have his way; he REQUESTED.
Having friends is a good thing, but choose your close friends wisely.
Tape/hang the baggies in an area with normal light and temperature.
Wait 3-4 weeks to see results.
Bible Literacy:
Underline or highlight Daniel 1:8 in your Bible.
