Scripture: Numbers 13-14
Learning Objectives:
- Students will learn that God expects us to trust that He knows what is best for us.
- Students will learn that God expects us to trust that He will keep His promises to us.
- Students will learn that God will reward those who have faith in Him and ultimately punish those who do not.
- Students will participate in an activity to help them realize true courage comes from trusting God.
Guiding Question: How can we be brave like Joshua and Caleb?
Materials: Small necklace size boxes, markers, glue, typed inserts – steps for courage (also typed scriptures on courage for younger students), small pieces of paper
Procedure: Share with the students the story of the twelve spies exploring Canaan. Ask the students why Joshua and Caleb felt differently from the other spies. Explain that Joshua and Caleb had courage because they trusted in God. Ask the students what makes them afraid. Have them share what they do when they are scared.
Give the student a few pieces of small paper. Encourage them to write or draw on the paper some of the fears they have now and that seem to reoccur in their lives. Give each student a box. Explain that they will use this as their “courage” box.
Discuss the following steps with students:
• Write or draw your fear on a small piece of pater and place it in the box.
• Pray to God about your fear. Use your own words to tell Him why you are afraid and ask Him to help you trust Him to be with you during this scary time.
• Read Bible verses about God taking care of us and trusting in God
• Memorize your favorite verse so you can repeat it whenever you are afraid.
• Trust God to be with you and try to stop thinking about what makes you afraid.
• Think about things that are good, pure and lovely instead. (Phil. 4:8)
• Repeat as needed.
Have them glue the steps to the bottom of their box. Have them choose their favorite verse and tape it to the box. Have them use the remaining time to decorate the other parts of the box. Encourage them to take home the box and put it somewhere so they will remember to use it whenever they are afraid.
Additional Questions:
- What are some great scriptures to read when you are afraid?
Supplemental Activity: Have the students ask various members of their congregation which Bible verses they read when they are afraid. Encourage the students to compile the answers and share them with others.