Lesson: 1 Thessalonians 3:4 (Ages 9-11)

📖 1 Thessalonians 3:4 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

Alright! This Bible verse is like a friend preparing you for a tough test at school. Just like how the Apostle Paul told his friends in Thessalonica that they would face hard times ahead, we also face challenges in our lives.

Imagine if your friend warned you that a big storm was coming. You would know to get ready with an umbrella and stay safe, right? In the same way, Paul warned his friends so they could be ready for tough times and not feel surprised or scared when they happened.

Facing pressure and suffering can be tough, but just like how we trust our friends and get through storms together, we can trust in God to help us through our hard times. God is always with us, giving us strength and comfort when we face difficulties.

So, remember, just like how Paul's friends faced challenges but had faith in God, we can also trust in God’s love and strength to guide us through any tough times we may encounter.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, there was a young squirrel named Sammy who loved to collect acorns. One day, Sammy's friends warned him about a big storm coming, but Sammy didn't listen and continued to gather acorns.

Soon enough, the storm hit, and poor Sammy found himself struggling to find food. Remembering his friends' warning, Sammy realized he should have listened and prepared for the hard times just like the Apostle Paul warned the Thessalonians.

Through his experience, Sammy learned the importance of being prepared and listening to wise advice, just like how Paul warned the Thessalonians about facing pressure and suffering. From then on, Sammy made sure to listen carefully to those who cared about him and to always be prepared for whatever challenges may come his way.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for always being with us, even in times of pressure and suffering. Help us to remember that you are always near, guiding and comforting us through every challenge we face. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. What do you think it means to face pressure and suffering as a follower of Jesus?
2. How do you think the Thessalonians felt when they experienced pressure and suffering?
3. How can we stay strong and keep our faith when we face difficult times?
4. Can you think of a time when you faced a challenge but remembered that Jesus is with you?
5. How can we encourage others who are going through tough times?

Life Application

In this verse, the Apostle Paul is talking about facing pressure and suffering when sharing the message of Jesus with others. Children aged 9-11 can apply this message in their own lives by remembering that sometimes they may face challenges or difficult situations, even when they are doing the right thing. Just like Paul knew he would face pressure for sharing the Gospel, children can remember that it's important to stay strong and keep doing what is right, even when things get tough. This can help them at home, school, or with friends by reminding them to stand firm in their beliefs and values, even when faced with challenges or opposition.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a "Pressure and Suffering Prayer Rock" activity to help children understand and remember the message of 1 Thessalonians 3:4.

Materials needed:
- Smooth rocks
- Acrylic paint
- Paintbrushes
- Permanent markers
- Clear sealant spray

Instructions:
1. Have the children pick a smooth rock that fits comfortably in their hand.
2. Ask them to paint the rock with colors that represent pressure and suffering, such as dark colors or shades of gray.
3. Once the paint is dry, encourage them to write "1 Thessalonians 3:4" on the rock using a permanent marker.
4. Have the children reflect on a time when they faced pressure or suffering and how they leaned on God during that time.
5. Encourage them to say a prayer asking God for strength and guidance during difficult times.
6. After the prayer, seal the painted rock with clear sealant spray to protect the design.

This activity will serve as a tangible reminder for children that they can turn to God for help and strength during times of pressure and suffering, just like the verse in 1 Thessalonians 3:4 teaches us.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

When troubles come our way, we'll stand strong and not stray,
For in 1 Thessalonians 3:4, we're reminded to pray,
God prepares us for the tough times, come what may,
With His strength, we'll overcome, day by day!

Songs or Videos

One song that relates to the message of facing pressure and suffering as mentioned in 1 Thessalonians 3:4 is "Trust in You" by Lauren Daigle. The song talks about trusting God even in difficult times. Another song that kids might enjoy is "You Never Let Go" by Matt Redman, which reminds us that God is always with us, even in the midst of trials. Both of these songs encourage us to trust in God's faithfulness during challenges.

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