Scripture: Ecclesiastes 1-12
Learning Objectives:
- Students will learn that in spite of his great wisdom, Solomon still made many bad choices.
- Students will learn Solomon tried many things to find meaning in his life outside of God.
- Students will learn after becoming miserable trying things other than God, Solomon realized true meaning and fulfillment in life can only be found through God.
- Students will learn what vanity is and how it is shown in our lifestyles.
Guiding Question: How can students apply their knowledge of vanity?
Materials: Paper (license plate template), pencils, drawing utensils
Procedure: Explain to students that even though Solomon had asked God for wisdom, he didn’t always make good choices. In fact, it seems Solomon got caught up in a lot of the things his money and power gave him and maybe even stopped putting God first for a time in his life. Putting God first will allow us to find true joy and purpose for our lives on Earth. Putting other things before God and finding joy in Earthly things will only result in temporary satisfaction.
Introduce the activity. Talk to students about the theme of vanity and what vanity is. Explain that vanity is excessive pride. Have students share times when they have shown a great deal of pride or someone else has. Talk about why it is a better choice to stay humble and give God the credit. Ask the students that if Solomon’s chariot had a vanity license plate, what are some things that could have been on it? After students share some ideas, have the students design their license plate and share their results.
Additional Questions: How can students write about their knowledge of vanity?
Supplemental Activity: Have the students create a story about someone with a great deal of vanity and include a consequence for the vanity. Make sure the students include descriptive words and examples that show the character’s vanity. Students can share out at the end.