Scripture: Daniel 3
Learning Objectives:
- Students will learn God expects us to follow Him even if others threaten to hurt or kill us if we do.
- Students will learn God wants us to have faith in Him.
- Students will learn even if God does not stop evil people from hurting us when we obey Him, He will make sure His people spend eternity with Him in Heaven.
- Students will participate in a service project for burn victim children in hospitals.
Guiding Question: How can God help us to obey Him?
Materials: Found in Procedure section
Procedure: Review the story of Shadrach and his friends. Explain to students that normally God expects us to obey our rulers. (Romans 13:1-7) The only exceptions we can find in the Bible are when the King or other ruler told people to do something that forced them to disobey God. (Acts 5:27-29 gives an example when the government told them to not do something God wanted them to do!) Tell the students that there are times that everyone will be in a situation where they can choose to obey or disobey God. Sometimes this can happen when you are with friends and they are not making good choices. We have to ask God for strength to make the right choice even when we are pressured to make a bad choice.
Introduce the service project. Explain that this will be a service project for children in burn units of hospitals. Tell students that recovery is often very long and painful. There may only be one pediatric burn unit in your state so check with hospital before gathering items or visiting. Have the students create baskets of things to amuse the children such as toys, puzzles, coloring and activity books, playdoh, etc.
Additional Questions: How can students support those affected by house fires?
Supplemental Activity: Contact the Red Cross or a local organization who supports families displaced by house fires. Find out what their needs are and have students donate or put on a fundraiser to meet those needs.