Lesson: James 1:14 (Ages 3-5)

📖 James 1:14 – Ages 3-5

Explanation

This Bible verse is telling us that when we do something wrong, like not sharing our toys or saying something mean to a friend, it's because we want to do it. It's like when you see a yummy cookie on the table and you really want to eat it, even though you know you're not supposed to because it's not time for a snack. That strong feeling you have, that makes you want to eat the cookie, is like being tempted.

The verse is saying that when we do things we know we shouldn't do, it's because we are being tempted by our own desires. It's important to remember that even when we really want to do something wrong, we can ask God to help us make the right choice. Just like how you can ask your mom or dad for help when you're trying to do something difficult, we can ask God for strength to resist temptations and do what is right. God loves us and wants to help us make good choices.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, there was a little squirrel named Sammy. Sammy loved shiny acorns and couldn't resist them, even when his friends warned him they were too high up in the tree. One day, Sammy saw the shiniest acorn of all at the very top!

Ignoring his friends' advice, Sammy climbed higher and higher. As he reached for the acorn, a strong gust of wind blew, making him lose his balance. Sammy tumbled down but luckily landed safely on a lower branch.

As he sat there, Sammy realized that his desire for the shiny acorn had tempted him to do something dangerous. Just like how we can be tempted by our own desires, Sammy learned that it's important to listen to wise advice and not let our wants lead us into trouble.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for always being with me. Help me not to be tempted by my own desires, but to follow Your loving ways. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean to be tempted? Can you think of a time when you were tempted to do something you knew was not right?
2. Who helps us resist temptation and make good choices?
3. Why is it important to listen to God’s words and follow His ways instead of giving in to our own desires?
4. How can we ask God for help when we feel tempted to do something we shouldn’t?
5. Can you think of a Bible story where someone faced temptation but chose to do what was right instead?

Life Application

This Bible verse from James 1:14 is teaching us that when we are tempted to do something wrong, it is because we have a desire inside us that is pulling us in the wrong direction. For children aged 3-5, this can be applied in their daily life by helping them understand the difference between right and wrong actions.

At home, children can remember this verse when they are tempted to take a toy from their sibling without asking. They can remember that their desire to have the toy is leading them to do something wrong, and they can choose to ask nicely instead.

At school, children can apply this verse when they are tempted to cheat on a test because they want a good grade. They can remember that their desire for a good grade is not a good reason to do something wrong, and they can choose to study and do their best instead.

With friends, children can think about this verse when they are tempted to join in if their friends are being mean to someone else. They can remember that their desire to fit in with their friends should not lead them to do something hurtful, and they can choose to be kind and stand up for what is right.

By applying the message of James 1:14 in these situations, children can learn to make good choices and follow God's way in their everyday life.

Craft or Activity

One fun activity to help children understand James 1:14 is to create a fishing game. You can make fish cutouts and write different desires on them, like "wanting a toy," "being unkind," or "not sharing." Attach paperclips to the fish, and then use a toy fishing rod with a magnet to "catch" the fish. As they catch each fish, discuss how it represents a desire that can tempt us. This hands-on activity can help children visualize how desires can lure us away from doing what is right.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

When tempted, remember this line,
Your own desires can make you whine.
Stay strong, don't let them lead the way,
In God's love, you'll find the way to stay!

Songs or Videos

A great song that relates to the message of James 1:14 is "My Lighthouse" by Rend Collective. This song talks about how God's love guides us and helps us resist temptation when we are drawn away by our own desires. Another wonderful song is "Trust in You" by Lauren Daigle, which reminds us to trust in God and seek His help when we are tempted. Both of these songs can help kids understand the importance of relying on God to overcome temptation.

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