Our Focus Today Helping children discover that God always hears our prayers and invites us to pray about both the desires of our hearts and the desires of His.
Key Truth God always hears our prayers.
Bible Passage Philippians 4:6–7
Memory Verse “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” Philippians 4:6 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
Prayer isn’t about saying all the right words. It’s about talking with a God who loves us and is always listening. Today, children will discover that God hears every prayer, whether it’s carefully planned or whispered in the middle of a difficult moment. As you teach, remind them that prayer is a relationship, not a performance.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Leader Preparation
Lesson Supplies Study books Pens Highlighters Stained Glass Prayer Kits Contact paper Scissors
Teaching Supplies Bible Two paper plates Skittles Pitcher of warm water Completed stained glass prayer craft Group poster
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Practice today’s Truth in Action. Prepare the stained glass prayer craft supplies. Cut the contact paper for each child. A completed sample lesson activity.
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters Did anyone have an answered prayer since our last lesson? Have you added any new prayers to your Heart Box? What’s something you’ve been talking to God about lately?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Philippians 4:6–7 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that God invites us to bring every prayer to Him. He loves hearing from His children and promises to listen whether our prayers are carefully planned or spoken in the middle of a normal day.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 2 Re-read Lesson 1, then continue directly into Lesson 2.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Truth In Action
Time: 5–10 minutes
Supplies Two paper plates Skittles Pitcher of warm water
Let’s Begin Hold up the two empty plates.
“Today we’re going to discover something wonderful about prayer. Sometimes our prayers are quiet and organized. Maybe we’re kneeling beside our bed or sitting quietly with our Bible.”
Begin placing Skittles neatly around the edge of the first plate. “Let’s pretend these are those kinds of prayers.”
Invite the children to call out different things they pray about as you place each Skittle on the plate. *Examples may include: family, friends, pets, someone who is sick, thanking God, school, something they’re worried about
Hold up the second plate.
“But sometimes prayer doesn’t look like that at all.”
Scatter Skittles randomly across the second plate.
“Sometimes we need to pray right in the middle of a moment.Maybe before a test, before a game, or when someone hurts our feelings. Those prayers can feel a little messy and rushed, BUT they’re still prayers.”
Point to the center of each plate.
“Let’s imagine the center of each plate is God.”
Slowly pour warm water into the center of both plates, using just enough water to cover the Skittles. Allow everyone to watch.
What do you notice? Allow children to respond.
“Where are all the colors moving?” Allow responses.
“They’re all moving toward the center. It didn’t matter whether the Skittles started in a neat, orderly circle or were scattered all over the plate. They all moved toward the same place. Our prayers are a lot like that. Some are carefully and thoughtfully planned and spoken and some are whispered in the middle of a moment. Some are thankful, some are full of questions, and some are simply, ‘God, please help!’ No matter what our prayers sound like, God lovingly hears every single one.”
Ask When might you pray a quick prayer during your day? Do you think God only hears prayers that only sound perfect? Why or why not? How does it make you feel knowing God is always listening?
Wrap Up “Prayer isn’t about having the perfect words. It’s about talking with a God who is always listening. Whether our prayers are carefully planned or whispered in a single moment, God lovingly hears every one.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to look up today’s Bible passages, highlight them in their Bibles, and read them aloud. Depending on the age of your group, children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups. If looking up all of the passages feels overwhelming, read one or two of the verses aloud together before inviting children to find the remaining verse(s) on their own.
After each verse, encourage children to fill in the missing word and discover one of the things God wants us to pray about.
Bible Verses 1 Corinthians 14:1 James 1:5 Romans 10:1 2 Peter 3:12–13
Ask Which of God’s desires surprised you today? Why do you think God wants us to pray about these things? What does this teach us about the kinds of prayers God loves to hear?
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2.
Begin by filling in the first blank together (PRAY).
In the four pink hearts, use what you learned from the Activity 1 Bible verses to identify the four big ideas God invites us to pray about: Wisdom Salvation of Others Spiritual Gifts The Lord’s Return
Briefly discuss each one together: Wisdom – Ask God to help us know what is right and give us the courage to do it. Salvation of Others – Pray that more people will come to know and trust Jesus. Spiritual Gifts – Ask God to help us discover and use the gifts He has given us to serve Him and others. The Lord’s Return – Thank God for His promises and look forward to the day Jesus returns to make all things new.
Then, invite children to fill the purple hearts with additional wishes and desires of their own hearts. Ask for volunteers to share and add a few of their responses to your group poster.
Complete the final blank together (PRAYER) and have a volunteer read the completed sentence aloud.
Ask What are some things God wants us to care about? How can prayer help our hearts become more like God’s heart? What’s one thing you’d like to pray about this week?
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 2.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
Three things necessary for a successful crusade. The first is prayer, the second is prayer, and the third is prayer. -Billy Graham
Our Focus Today Helping children recognize that God’s ways are always good, even when they don’t always make sense.
Key Truth God’s ways are always good, even when they don’t always make sense.
Bible Passage Isaiah 26:3
Memory Verse “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”Isaiah 26:3 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
Children don’t need perfect leaders. They need caring adults who are willing to show up, open God’s Word, ask good questions, and remind them of God’s great love. Today, don’t worry about saying everything perfectly. Trust that God is working through every story you read, every question you ask, and every conversation you share.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Leader Preparation
Lesson Supplies Study books Pens Highlighters White canvases Paint pens Sharpies
Teaching Supplies Bible Ping-pong balls
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample of today’s lesson activity.
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters What’s something you’re really good at? What’s one rule you have at home? If you could make one rule for your classroom, what would it be?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Isaiah 26:3 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that God never changes. Even when life feels confusing or overwhelming, He remains steady, trustworthy, and always with us.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 1 Read Lesson 1 aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Truth In Action
Time: 5–10 minutes
Supplies Ping-pong balls A sturdy tree (or another large, immovable object)
Let’s Begin Scatter the ping-pong balls across the ground and invite each child to pick one up.
“Have you ever felt like life was coming at you from every direction?” Allow children to respond.
“Sometimes it feels like our thoughts, other people’s opinions, temptations, and distractions are flying at us all at once.”
Allow the children to safely throw their ping-pong balls in any direction, then quickly run to pick up any new ping-pong ball before continuing.
Walk together to the tree. “This tree is going to represent God. Unlike everything else that’s constantly changing, God never changes. His love is steady and nothing can shake Him.”
Invite everyone to throw their ping-pong ball at the tree.
“Did the tree move?“ Allow children to respond.
“Not even a little. God is like that. The world changes. Our feelings change. Everything around us can seem like it’s bouncing in different directions, but God never changes. He remains steadfast.”
Invite everyone to gently lean against the tree.
“When life feels confusing or you’re trying to decide what the right choice is, you don’t have to figure it out by yourself. You can lean on God.”
Ask What are some ways we can lean on God? When is it hardest to trust Him? Why do you think God never changes?
Encourage responses such as: talking to God in prayer, reading His Word, asking a parent or trusted adult for help, and remembering what God says is true.
Wrap Up “When life feels confusing, God never changes. You can trust Him and His way is always the best way.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to list rules they have at home or at school before discussing them as a group.
Ask Why do people make rules? Why do you think God gives us His commands?
Have a volunteer read the Truth Check aloud.
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2.
Invite children to look up each passage, highlight it, fill in the blanks, and discover what each verse teaches about sin.
Depending on the age of your group, children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups. If looking up all four verses feels overwhelming, read one or two of the verses aloud together and have them complete those blanks before looking up the remaining verse(s) on their own.
Bible Verses 1 John 3:4 Romans 3:23 Romans 5:12 James 4:17
Ask According to these verses, who sins? What is sin? Why do we all need Jesus?
Fill in the blanks of Knowing vs. Choosing and have a volunteer read Knowing vs. Choosing aloud.
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 1.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
The pause is not weakness; it is wisdom guided by the spirit. -Charles Swindoll
Our Focus Today Helping children understand that every choice has a consequence, but through Jesus we can always receive forgiveness and begin again.
Key Truth Every choice has a consequence, but through Jesus we can always receive forgiveness and begin again.
Bible Passage Galatians 5:16
Memory Verse “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
Every child in your group has already made countless choices today, and tomorrow they’ll make countless more. What a privilege it is to remind them that God lovingly guides our choices and, when we fall short, offers forgiveness through Jesus. Trust that God is using His Word to shape hearts one less and one conversation at a time.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Leader Preparation
Lesson Supplies Study books Pens Highlighters Socks Cardboard inserts Fabric markers Printed God’s attribute half-sheets (if needed for multiple small groups)
Teaching Supplies Bible Two clear pitchers Water Food coloring Bleach Spoon Paper towels
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Fill one pitcher with clear water before children arrive. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample of today’s lesson activity (or wear a pair)!
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters What is one good choice you made this week? Have you ever had to make a really hard choice? What do you remember from last week’s story?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Galatians 5:16 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that every day we choose whether to follow God’s way or our own. God lovingly gives us His Word to help us make wise choices.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 2 Re-read Lesson 1, then continue directly into Lesson 2.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Truth In Action
Time: 5–10 minutes
Supplies Two clear pitchers Water Food coloring Bleach Spoon Paper towels
Let’s Begin Hold up the pitcher of clear water. “Last lesson we learned the difference between knowing what’s right and choosing what’s right. Today we’re going to discover why our choices matter.”
Point to the clear water. “This water represents our life. God created us with the freedom to choose.”
“Where has God given us instructions for making wise choices?“ *Guide the conversation toward: the Bible, prayer, the Holy Spirit, parents and trusted adults.
Invite a volunteer to add the first food coloring. “This color represents the goodness that comes from following God’s plan.”
Ask another volunteer to add the second color. “This color represents sin.”
Let everyone observe. “When we choose our own way instead of God’s way, sin changes what God intended and every choice has a consequence.”
Point to the, now, murky water Does this look like the life God lovingly planned for us?
“The good news is that God knew we wouldn’t always make perfect choices. Because He loves us, He made a way to forgive us.”
Slowly pour the bleach into the pitcher. Allow everyone to watch and talk about what they see.
“When we repent and trust Him, He forgives our sin. and gives us a fresh start…every single time.”
Wrap Up “Every wrong choice has a consequence, but that’s not the end of the story. The flip side is that because of Jesus, forgiveness is always possible.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to think about times they’ve disobeyed at home, at school, or with friends. Encourage them to write or draw a few examples, then jot down some of the feelings that often follow disobedience.
After everyone has finished, look up, highlight, and read Galatians 5:16–17. Have children fill in the missing words and discuss what these verses teach about the struggle between following God’s way and following our own desires.
Ask Why do you think doing the right thing can sometimes be difficult? What feelings usually follow a wrong choice? According to Galatians 5:16, who helps us choose what is right?
Have a volunteer read today’s Truth Check.
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2.
Explain that one of the best ways to know what God is like is by reading His Word.
Invite children to look up each passage and search for God’s attributes, identifying what each verse teaches about His character.
Depending on the age of your group, children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups. If looking up all four passages feels overwhelming, read one or two of the verses aloud together and have children identify the attribute before looking up the remaining passage(s) on their own.
Bible Verses Daniel 9:9 Ephesians 2:4–5 Hebrews 4:16 Proverbs 28:13
Ask Which attribute did you notice repeated in today’s verses? Why is God’s mercy such good news for us? How does knowing God is merciful help us when we make mistakes?
Fill in the blanks of today’s Truth Check, then have a volunteer read today’s Truth Check aloud.
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 2.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
Sometimes, you need to pause before you speak or reply to someone. The Holy Spirit will give you the right words to say. -Dr. Andy Osakwe
Our Focus Today Helping children understand that trusting God means relying on Him, even when life doesn’t make sense.
Key Truth Trusting God means putting our faith into action.
Bible Passage Romans 5:6–8
Memory Verse “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly… But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6, 8 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
Trust grows one step at a time. The same is true for children…and for us. As you lead today, remember that God doesn’t ask us to have all the answers. He simply asks us to trust Him. Your willingness to faithfully point children to Jesus is an act of trust, too.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample of today’s lesson activity.
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters When is it easy to trust someone? When is it harder to trust someone? Can you think of a time when someone kept a promise to you?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Romans 5:6–8 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that God proved His love for us through Jesus. Because He always keeps His promises, we can trust Him with every part of our lives.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 3 Re-read Lessons 1–2, then continue directly into Lesson 3.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Let’s Begin “Last lesson we learned that knowing what’s right and choosing what’s right aren’t always the same thing. God knows that trusting Him isn’t always easy, so He fills His Word with truth to help us.”
Read Proverbs 16:20 aloud. “Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”
Hold up the knife. “Let’s pretend this knife represents God. He is strong, powerful, and able to do anything.”
Slice through the folded newspaper. “That shows us just how powerful this knife is.”
Hold up the potato. “Let’s pretend this potato represents a hard decision or something difficult we’re facing.”
“Could this knife cut through the potato?“ Allow children to respond.
Wrap the newspaper around the potato. “Now imagine this newspaper is you. God invites us to wrap our hearts around Him and trust Him as He walks with us through hard things.” Slice through the potato. Carefully remove the newspaper. Show that it remained unharmed.
“The knife cut through the potato, but the newspaper stayed safe. Trusting God doesn’t mean hard things disappear it means we’re never facing them alone.”
“Why do you think God wants us to trust Him?” Encourage answers such as: telling the truth. standing up for a friend, obeying parents, choosing kindness, and following God’s Word even when it’s difficult.
Wrap Up “Trust grows one choice at a time. When we choose God’s way we’re putting our faith into action.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to look up each Bible passage and highlight it in their Bible. As they find each verse, have them fill in the missing words before matching each Bible reference to the truth it teaches.
Depending on the age of your group, children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups. If looking up all three passages feels overwhelming, read one or two of the verses aloud together before inviting children to look up the remaining passage(s) on their own.
Ask What does Romans 5 teach us about God’s love? According to Romans 8:14, who leads God’s children? What does Proverbs 3 tell us to do instead of leaning on our own understanding?
Have a volunteer read today’s Truth Check aloud.
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2.
Invite children to use what they learned from today’s Bible verses to complete the sentences at the top of the page.
Then encourage them to answer the discussion questions independently before sharing with a partner, small group, or the whole group.
Ask When is it hardest to trust God instead of yourself? How does knowing God loves you, even when you’re not perfect, encourage you? What is one way you can let God lead you this week?
Have a volunteer read today’s Takeaway Truths.
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 3.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
The good way is not necessarily the quickest way or the easiest or even the safest. Its goodness is that it gets you there and does itswork in you as you go. -Mark Buchanan
Our Focus Today Helping children recognize the difference between temptation and sin and reminding them that God always provides a way to choose His way.
Key Truth God always provides a way to escape temptation.
Bible Passage Mark 12:30–31
Memory Verse “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30–31 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
Trust grows one step at a time. The same is true for children…and for us. As you lead today, remember Temptation is something every believer faces, including us. As you lead today, remember that children don’t need someone who has never struggled. They need someone who knows where to turn when they do. Your willingness to point them to Jesus is one of the greatest gifts you can give.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Leader Preparation
Lesson Supplies Study books Pens Highlighters Lidded container Three different colors of pony beads Sharpie markers or paint pens Sport/adventure themed stickers
Teaching Supplies Bible Glass jar Water balloon Lighter Small piece of paper Straw
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Practice today’s Truth in Action before children arrive. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample of today’s lesson activity.
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters Have you ever had to make a really hard choice? What helps you make a good decision? What do you remember from last lesson’s story?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Mark 12:30–31 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that loving God means choosing His way, even when temptation makes another choice seem easier.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 4 Re-read Lessons 1–3, then continue directly into Lesson 4.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Truth In Action
Time: 5–10 minutes
Supplies Glass jar Water balloon (just slightly larger than the top of your jar) Lighter Small piece of paper Straw
Let’s Begin Hold up the empty jar. “This jar represents sin.”
Hold up the water balloon. “And this water balloon represents us.”
Try placing the balloon into the jar. “Sometimes people say, ‘I just fell into sin. But that’s usually not how it happens. Before sin , comes temptation.”
“Temptation is anything that pulls us toward making a choice that goes against God’s way. Being tempted isn’t a sin.“
Use a simple example. “Seeing candy in the checkout line isn’t a sin. Wanting the candy isn’t a sin. Choosing to take it without paying…that’s a sin.”
Light the small piece of paper. Drop it into the jar. “This fire represents temptation.”
Set the balloon on top of the jar and allow it to be pulled inside. “Temptation pulls on our hearts and we can easily get sucked right in.“
“When we give in, we can feel stuck.” Try pulling the balloon back out. Allow children to notice how difficult it is.
“Have you ever tried to fix a mistake all by yourself? Sometimes it feels impossible.”
Hold up the straw. “This straw is God’s promise of an escape plan.”
Insert the straw and remove the balloon. “God never leaves us stuck. He gives us a way out. Sometimes that’s through prayer, sometimes through His Word, and sometimes through the trusted people He’s placed in our lives.”
Ask What’s the difference between temptation and sin? What can we do when we’re tempted? Who are some trusted people God has given us to help?
Wrap Up “The next time you’re tempted, pause, pray, and remember that God has already made a way to help you choose His way.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to look up each Bible passage and highlight it in their Bible. As they read each verse, have them underline the words command, love, God, and other every time they appear.
Depending on the age of your group, children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups. If looking up all four passages feels overwhelming, read one or two of the verses aloud together before inviting children to search for the remaining passage(s) on their own.
Bible Verses Galatians 5:14 1 John 4:21 John 15:12–13 Mark 12:30–31
Ask What words did you notice repeated in today’s verses? What do these verses teach us about what matters most to God? If you had to summarize all of God’s commandments in just a few words, what would you say?
Have a volunteer read today’s Truth Check.
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2.
Invite children to read each of the Ten Commandments and decide whether it teaches us to love God or love others by writing G or O beside each one.
Children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups.
To review the answers, invite everyone to stand up for a quick movement break. Read each command aloud and have the children call out “G!” or “O!” together before sitting back down.
Ask Which commandments help us love God? Which commandments help us love others? Why do you think Jesus summarized God’s commandments this way?
Finish by counting the answers together and completing today’s Truth Check.
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 4.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supplies. -Hudson Taylor
Our Focus Today Helping children understand that God lovingly guides us through His Word and gives us wisdom when we ask Him.
Key Truth God’s way is always the best way.
Bible Passage Deuteronomy 28:1
Memory Verse “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth.” Deuteronomy 28:1 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
One of the greatest gifts we can give children is confidence that God’s Word can be trusted. Long after they forget today’s activity or object lesson, my prayer is that they’ll remember they never have to figure life out on their own. God has given them His Word, His wisdom, and His presence to guide every step.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Leader Preparation
Lesson Supplies Study books Pens Highlighters Wooden/ceramic video game controllers Paint pens or paint & paintbrushes Completed sample controller
Teaching Supplies Bible Blindfold Destination object or location
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Decide on the destination for today’s Truth in Action. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample of today’s lesson activity.
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters Have you ever gotten lost? Who helps you make good decisions? What’s one thing you’ve learned during this study?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Deuteronomy 28:1 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that God gives us His commands because He loves us and knows the best path for our lives.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 5 Re-read Lessons 1–4, then continue directly into Lesson 5.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Truth In Action
Time: 5–10 minutes
Supplies Blindfold Destination location/object
Let’s Begin Choose one volunteer. Show everyone the destination. “Today we’re going to do a little experiment.”Do you think ______ can make it to our destination?” Allow children to answer.
Hold up the blindfold. “What if he can’t see where he’s going?” Place the blindfold on the volunteer.
Round One Give only vague directions. Example: “Go that way. A little farther. Turn. Now that way” Pause after a few moments.
Was that easy or hard? Why?
“Sometimes life feels like that. We have choices to make every day and if we try to figure everything out on our own, it’s easy to get confused. But God doesn’t leave us without directions.”
What are God’s directions called? Allow children to answer…The Ten Commandments
Round Two “Let’s try again.” Guide the volunteer carefully with very clear directions.
Example: “Take two small steps forward.One step to the left. Three tiny steps forward.”
Celebrate reaching the destination.
“Why did that work so much better?” Allow children to answer.
“God’s Word works the same way. He sees what we cannot see. His instructions are given because He loves us and wants what is best for us. Whenever you aren’t sure what to do, Pray. Flip. Go.”
Ask Why can we trust God’s directions? Where can we find God’s instructions? What can we do when we don’t know what choice to make?
Wrap Up “Every day you’ll have choices to make, but you never have to choose alone. Pray. Flip. Go. God will always help you choose His way.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to look up each Bible passage and highlight it in their Bible. As they find each verse, have them unscramble the word and complete the missing blank.
Depending on the age of your group, children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups. If looking up all four passages feels overwhelming, read one or two of the verses aloud together before inviting children to search for the remaining passage(s) on their own.
Bible Verses Deuteronomy 28:1 James 1:5 James 4:7 Psalm 143:8
Ask What do these verses teach us about following God’s way? Which verse reminds you the most that God helps us make wise choices? Why is it important to ask God for wisdom before making a decision?
Have a volunteer read today’s Truth Check aloud.
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2.
Invite children to read each situation and circle the response that best follows what they have learned from the story.
Children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups.
Ask Which situation would be the hardest for you? Which is the most familiar to you? Why do you think praying first changes the way we respond? How can Pray. Flip. Go. help you this week?
Have a volunteer read Back on Track aloud.
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 5.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done. -C.S. Lewis
Our Focus Today Helping children understand that God lovingly guides us through His Word and gives us wisdom when we ask Him.
Key Truth God’s way is always the best way.
Bible Passage Deuteronomy 28:1
Memory Verse “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all his commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth.” Deuteronomy 28:1 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
One of the greatest gifts we can give children is confidence that God’s Word can be trusted. Long after they forget today’s activity or object lesson, my prayer is that they’ll remember they never have to figure life out on their own. God has given them His Word, His wisdom, and His presence to guide every step.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Teaching Supplies Bible Blindfold Destination object (brought or something existing at the study location)
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Decide on the “destination” for today’s Truth in Action. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample lesson activity.
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters Have you ever gotten lost? Who helps you make good decisions? What’s one thing you’ve learned during this study?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Deuteronomy 28:1 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that God gives us His commands because He loves us and knows the best path for our lives.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 5 Re-read Lessons 1–4, then continue directly into Lesson 5.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Truth In Action
Time: 5–10 minutes
Supplies Blindfold Destination location/object
Let’s Begin Choose one volunteer. Show everyone the destination. “Today we’re going to do a little experiment.”Do you think ______ can make it to our destination?” Allow children to answer.
Hold up the blindfold. “What if she can’t see where she’s going?” Place the blindfold on the volunteer.
Round One Give only vague directions. Example: “Go that way. A little farther. Turn. Now that way” Pause after a few moments.
Was that easy or hard? Why?
“Sometimes life feels like that. We have choices to make every day and if we try to figure everything out on our own, it’s easy to get confused. But God doesn’t leave us without directions.”
What are God’s directions called? Allow children to answer…The Ten Commandments
Round Two “Let’s try again.” Guide the volunteer carefully with very clear directions.
Example: “Take two small steps forward.One step to the left. Three tiny steps forward.”
Celebrate reaching the destination.
“Why did that work so much better?” Allow children to answer.
“God’s Word works the same way. He sees what we cannot see. His instructions are given because He loves us and wants what is best for us. Whenever you aren’t sure what to do, pause, pray, and ask God for wisdom.”
Ask Why can we trust God’s directions? Where can we find God’s instructions? What can we do when we don’t know what choice to make?
Wrap Up “Sometimes the ‘other side of no’ means saying no to something that pulls us away from God and saying yes to God’s way instead. God’s way is always the best way, even when it may feel harder or even more fun.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to look up the Bible verses, unscramble the words, and fill in the blanks. Depending on the age of your group, children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups. When everyone has finished, invite volunteers to read the completed verses aloud.
Have a volunteer read today’s Truth Tidbit.
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2.
Children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups.
Invite volunteers to share some of the alternative “yes” choices they came up with.
Have a volunteer read There’s Always a Way Back.
Ask What did today’s verses teach us about following God? Why does God give us His commands? What can you do this week when you aren’t sure what choice to make?
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 5.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
Relying on God has to begin all over again every day as if nothing had yet been done. -C.S. Lewis
Our Focus Today Helping children recognize the difference between temptation and sin and reminding them that God always provides a way to choose His way.
Key Truth God always provides a way to escape temptation.
Bible Passage Mark 12:30–31
Memory Verse “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: Love your neighbor as yourself. There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:30–31 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
Trust grows one step at a time. The same is true for children…and for us. As you lead today, remember Temptation is something every believer faces, including us. As you lead today, remember that children don’t need someone who has never struggled. They need someone who knows where to turn when they do. Your willingness to point them to Jesus is one of the greatest gifts you can give.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Leader Preparation
Lesson Supplies Study books Pens Highlighters Headbands Heart/pom pom clips
Teaching Supplies Bible Glass jar Water balloon Lighter Small piece of paper Straw
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Practice today’s Truth in Action before children arrive. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample lesson activity.
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters Have you ever had to make a really hard choice? What helps you make a good decision? What do you remember from last lesson’s story?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Mark 12:30–31 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that loving God means choosing His way, even when temptation makes another choice seem easier.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 4 Re-read Lessons 1–3, then continue directly into Lesson 4.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Truth In Action
Time: 5–10 minutes
Supplies Glass jar Water balloon (just slightly larger than the top of your jar) Lighter Small piece of paper Straw
Let’s Begin Hold up the empty jar. “This jar represents sin.”
Hold up the water balloon. “And this water balloon represents us.”
Try placing the balloon into the jar. “Sometimes people say, ‘I just fell into sin. But that’s usually not how it happens. Before sin , comes temptation.”
“Temptation is anything that pulls us toward making a choice that goes against God’s way. Being tempted isn’t a sin.“
Use a simple example. “Seeing candy in the checkout line isn’t a sin. Wanting the candy isn’t a sin. Choosing to take it without paying…that’s a sin.”
Light the small piece of paper. Drop it into the jar. “This fire represents temptation.”
Set the balloon on top of the jar and allow it to be pulled inside. “Temptation pulls on our hearts and we can easily get sucked right in.“
“When we give in, we can feel stuck.” Try pulling the balloon back out. Allow children to notice how difficult it is.
“Have you ever tried to fix a mistake all by yourself? Sometimes it feels impossible.”
Hold up the straw. “This straw is God’s promise of an escape plan.”
Insert the straw and remove the balloon. “God never leaves us stuck. He gives us a way out. Sometimes that’s through prayer, sometimes through His Word, and sometimes through the trusted people He’s placed in our lives.”
Ask What’s the difference between temptation and sin? What can we do when we’re tempted? Who are some trusted people God has given us to help?
Wrap Up “The next time you’re tempted, pause, pray, and remember that God has already made a way to help you choose His way.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to look up the Bible verses and underline the key words in each passage. Depending on the age of your group, you may choose to complete the verses together or assign them to small groups.
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2.
Children may work independently, with a partner, or in small groups.
To review the answers, invite everyone to stand up for a quick movement break. Read each phrase aloud and have the children call out “G!” or “O!” to complete it. Continue until each phrase has been reviewed together.
Ask What did today’s verses teach us about temptation? Why is it important to go to God right away when we’re tempted? How does today’s Key Truth help us this week?
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 4.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supplies. -Hudson Taylor
Our Focus Today Helping children understand that trusting God means relying on Him, even when life doesn’t make sense.
Key Truth Trusting God means putting our faith into action.
Bible Passage Romans 5:6–8
Memory Verse “You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly… But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:6, 8 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
Trust grows one step at a time. The same is true for children…and for us. As you lead today, remember that God doesn’t ask us to have all the answers. He simply asks us to trust Him. Your willingness to faithfully point children to Jesus is an act of trust, too.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Leader Preparation
Lesson Supplies Study books Pens Highlighters Fabric strips Flip-flops
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample of today’s lesson activity.
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters When is it easy to trust someone? When is it harder to trust someone? Can you think of a time when someone kept a promise to you?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Romans 5:6–8 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that God proved His love for us through Jesus. Because He always keeps His promises, we can trust Him with every part of our lives.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 3 Re-read Lessons 1–2, then continue directly into Lesson 3.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Let’s Begin “Last lesson we learned that knowing what’s right and choosing what’s right aren’t always the same thing. God knows that trusting Him isn’t always easy, so He fills His Word with truth to help us.”
Read Proverbs 16:20 aloud. “Whoever gives heed to instruction prospers, and blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord.”
Hold up the knife. “Let’s pretend this knife represents God. He is strong, powerful, and able to do anything.”
Slice through the folded newspaper. “That shows us just how powerful this knife is.”
Hold up the potato. “Let’s pretend this potato represents a hard decision or something difficult we’re facing.”
“Could this knife cut through the potato?“ Allow children to respond.
Wrap the newspaper around the potato. “Now imagine this newspaper is you. God invites us to wrap our hearts around Him and trust Him as He walks with us through hard things.” Slice through the potato. Carefully remove the newspaper. Show that it remained unharmed.
“The knife cut through the potato, but the newspaper stayed safe. Trusting God doesn’t mean hard things disappear it means we’re never facing them alone.”
“Why do you think God wants us to trust Him?” Encourage answers such as: telling the truth. standing up for a friend, obeying parents, choosing kindness, and following God’s Word even when it’s difficult.
Wrap Up “Trust grows one choice at a time. When we choose God’s way we’re putting our faith into action.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to look up the first Bible verse together before completing the activity. Encourage small groups to discuss their answers before sharing with everyone.
Activity 2 Complete Activity 2. Refer back to the verses from Activity 1.
Depending on the age of your group, children may work individually, with a partner, or in small groups before coming back together to discuss what they learned.
Ask What did today’s verses teach us about trusting God? Why can we trust God even when life is hard? What is one small way you can put your faith into action this week?
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 3.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
The good way is not necessarily the quickest way or the easiest or even the safest. Its goodness is that it gets you there and does itswork in you as you go. -Mark Buchanan
Our Focus Today Helping children understand that every choice has a consequence, but through Jesus we can always receive forgiveness and begin again.
Key Truth Every choice has a consequence, but through Jesus we can always receive forgiveness and begin again.
Bible Passage Galatians 5:16
Memory Verse “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” Galatians 5:16 (NIV)
At A Glance
Approximate Lesson Time: 45–60 minutes Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity • 10–15 minutes Gather Around God’s Word • 10–15 minutes Read the Story • 10–15 minutes Truth in Action • 5–10 minutes Open Your Bible • 10–15 minutes Closing Prayer & Clean-Up • 2–3 minutes
Leader Encouragement
Every child in your group has already made countless choices today, and tomorrow they’ll make countless more. What a privilege it is to remind them that God lovingly guides our choices and, when we fall short, offers forgiveness through Jesus. Trust that God is using His Word to shape hearts one less and one conversation at a time.
The story God is writing in a child’s heart is always bigger than the lesson on the page.
Leader Preparation
Lesson Supplies Study books Pens Highlighters Socks Cardboard inserts Fabric markers Printed God’s attribute half-sheets (if needed for multiple small groups)
Teaching Supplies Bible Two clear pitchers Water Food coloring Bleach Spoon Paper towels
Prep Ahead Highlight today’s Bible passage in your Bible. Fill one pitcher with clear water before children arrive. Gather the supplies for today’s Truth in Action. Set out the lesson activity supplies for each group. A completed sample of today’s lesson activity (or wear a pair)!
Volunteer Roles
Lead Teacher Welcome the group and guide each part of the lesson. Read the Bible passage and story aloud. Lead the Truth in Action, discussion, and closing prayer.
Small Group Leaders Welcome children and encourage conversation. Support children throughout the lesson. Answer questions, encourage participation, and offer extra help as needed.
Floater Welcome families and direct children to their groups. Help with transitions and assist wherever needed throughout the lesson.
Leading the Lesson
Welcome, Snack & Lesson Activity
Time: 10–15 minutes Welcome children, help them get settled, and enjoy the time together as they complete today’s lesson activity.
Instructions Welcome children as they arrive. Invite them to begin today’s lesson activity. Encourage conversation while everyone enjoys a snack. As children finish, encourage them to continue chatting with their group until it’s time to begin.
Conversation Starters What is one good choice you made this week? Have you ever had to make a really hard choice? What do you remember from last week’s story?
Gather Around God’s Word
Time: 10–15 minutes
Transition Give children a two-minute warning before beginning. Invite everyone to simply set aside today’s lesson activity and grab only their study book, Bible, and pen. There is no need to clean everything up. Children can return to the activity later if time allows or take home any remaining supplies to finish.
Opening Prayer Begin with a simple prayer, inviting God to prepare hearts and minds to learn from His Word.
Bible Reading
Read Galatians 5:16 directly from your Bible.
Connect today’s Bible passage to the story by explaining that every day we choose whether to follow God’s way or our own. God lovingly gives us His Word to help us make wise choices.
Read the Story
Today’s Stair-Step Reading
Lesson 2 Re-read Lesson 1, then continue directly into Lesson 2.
Read the story aloud while children follow along.
Engage Children By… -Announcing page turns for younger readers. -Reading speech bubbles together. -Asking observation questions. -Pointing out humorous moments. -Inviting predictions as the story unfolds.
Truth In Action
Time: 5–10 minutes
Supplies Two clear pitchers Water Food coloring Bleach Spoon Paper towels
Let’s Begin Hold up the pitcher of clear water. “Last lesson we learned the difference between knowing what’s right and choosing what’s right. Today we’re going to discover why our choices matter.”
Point to the clear water. “This water represents our life. God created us with the freedom to choose.”
“Where has God given us instructions for making wise choices?“ *Guide the conversation toward: the Bible, prayer, the Holy Spirit, parents and trusted adults.
Invite a volunteer to add the first food coloring. “This color represents the goodness that comes from following God’s plan.”
Ask another volunteer to add the second color. “This color represents sin.”
Let everyone observe. “When we choose our own way instead of God’s way, sin changes what God intended and every choice has a consequence.”
Point to the, now, murky water Does this look like the life God lovingly planned for us?
“The good news is that God knew we wouldn’t always make perfect choices. Because He loves us, He made a way to forgive us.”
Slowly pour the bleach into the pitcher. Allow everyone to watch and talk about what they see.
“When we repent and trust Him, He forgives our sin. and gives us a fresh start…every single time.”
Wrap Up “Every choice has a consequence, but God’s grace is greater than our mistakes. Through Jesus we can always receive forgiveness and begin again.”
Open Your Bible
Time: 10–15 minutes
Activity 1 Complete Activity 1.
Invite children to discuss their answers with their small groups before sharing with the whole group.
Activity 2 Invite children to look up today’s Bible verses and highlight them in their Bibles. Depending on the age of your group, you may choose to look up the verses together or assign one verse to each small group before inviting them to share what they discovered.
Ask What did today’s verses teach us about making choices? Why does God give us His Word? Why is forgiveness such good news?
Closing Prayer
Pray the prayer at the end of Lesson 2.
Clean-Up
Invite children to: -Organize their supplies. -Throw away trash. -Help tidy their small group area. -Continue working on today’s lesson activity if time remains or take home any remaining supplies to finish later.
Sometimes, you need to pause before you speak or reply to someone. The Holy Spirit will give you the right words to say. -Dr. Andy Osakwe
