Lesson: 1 Corinthians 9:9 (Ages 9-11)

📖 1 Corinthians 9:9 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

This verse is like a way for us to understand how we should treat others, not just animals. In the old days, when farmers used oxen to help them farm, they would let the ox eat some of the grain it was helping to harvest. This verse is saying that it's fair for the ox to be able to eat while it works.

But it's not just about oxen. It's teaching us that when someone works hard, they should be taken care of. Just like how we should make sure to give a snack to a friend who helps us with something, or say thank you to our parents when they do something for us.

God cares about how we treat others and wants us to be fair and kind. So, let's remember to show gratitude and kindness to those who help us, just like we would for the hardworking oxen in the old days.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a small village, there was a kind farmer named Sarah. Sarah had a hardworking ox named Oliver who helped her plow the fields. One day, Sarah noticed that Oliver looked hungry and tired while working, so she decided to give him some extra food to eat.

As Sarah watched Oliver happily munch on his food, she remembered the verse from 1 Corinthians 9:9 about not muzzling an ox while it treads out the grain. She realized that just like God cares for the oxen, He also cares about how we treat and care for those who work hard.

From that day on, Sarah made sure to take good care of Oliver, giving him rest and plenty of food. And as a result, Oliver worked even harder for Sarah, showing her that kindness and care can make a big difference in someone's life, no matter how small or big they may be.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for reminding us through Your word in 1 Corinthians 9:9 that You care about all Your creatures, even the oxen. Help us to treat animals with kindness and respect, just as You do. Amen.

Discussion Questions

What do you think this Bible verse is trying to teach us about how we should treat animals?
Why do you think God included this command in the Law of Moses?
How can we apply the lesson of this verse to how we treat all living creatures, including animals?
How do you think showing kindness to animals reflects our love for God and His creation?
Why do you think God cares about how we treat both animals and people?

Life Application

This verse is reminding us that God cares about fairness and kindness, even to animals. For a child your age, this means treating animals well and with respect. You can apply this message by being kind to pets at home, making sure they have enough food, water, and love. You can also show kindness to animals outside your home by not being mean to them or hurting them.

This verse also teaches us to think about fairness in other situations. You can apply this by being fair to your friends and classmates. Treat others the way you would like to be treated, and include everyone in games and activities. Remember that God wants us to show love and kindness to everyone, just like He cares for all His creation.

Craft or Activity

To help children understand and remember the message of 1 Corinthians 9:9, you can create a craft activity where kids make a picture or diorama of an ox treading out grain. This can help them visualize the verse and its message about caring for animals. Encourage them to think about why God included this command in the Law of Moses and discuss how it teaches us to be considerate and caring towards all living creatures, not just humans.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

God cares for His creatures, big and small,
Like oxen treading grain, He sees them all.
In the Law of Moses, we are reminded to be fair,
Don't muzzle the ox, show kindness and care!

Songs or Videos

One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of 1 Corinthians 9:9 is "The Fruit of the Spirit" by Go Fish. This song talks about the fruits of the Spirit, which include kindness and caring for others, just like how God cares for the oxen in the Bible verse.

Another wonderful song is "This Little Light of Mine." This song encourages kids to let their light shine and show God's love and kindness to others, just like how we should care for the oxen as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 9:9.

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