Lesson: 1 John 3:20 (Ages 9-11)

📖 1 John 3:20 – Ages 9-11

Explanation

In 1 John 3:20, it says that even when we feel like we've done something wrong or when our hearts tell us we're not good enough, God is bigger and better than those feelings. It means that no matter what we think about ourselves, God knows us completely and loves us very much.

Imagine if you made a mistake and felt really bad about it. You might think, "I'm not a good person," or "I can't do anything right." But God sees us differently. He sees the good things we do and the love we have in our hearts. He knows us inside and out, even better than we know ourselves.

So, when our hearts try to make us feel small or not good enough, we can remember that God's love is even bigger. He forgives us when we make mistakes, and He helps us grow to be better people. We can trust that God's love and understanding are greater than any doubt or worry we may have in our hearts.

Kid's Story

Once there was a little squirrel named Sammy who loved to climb trees and gather acorns. One day, Sammy accidentally knocked over a bird's nest while playing. He felt so guilty that he couldn't sleep that night. The next day, Sammy's friend, Wise Owl, noticed he was feeling sad and asked him what was wrong. Sammy confessed what he had done and how bad he felt about it.

Wise Owl gently reminded Sammy of the Bible verse that says, "Even if our hearts find fault with us, God is greater than our hearts, and He knows everything." Sammy realized that even when he made a mistake, God still loved him and forgave him. This brought comfort to Sammy's heart, and he learned to trust in God's love and forgiveness, just like the verse says. From then on, Sammy knew that God's love was greater than any mistake he could make.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for always being greater than our hearts and knowing everything about us. Help us to remember that even when we feel unsure or guilty, you are always with us, guiding us with your love and understanding. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. What does it mean that God is greater than our hearts in 1 John 3:20?
2. How does it make you feel to know that God knows everything about you, even when you make mistakes?
3. How can remembering that God is greater than our hearts help us when we feel guilty or upset with ourselves?
4. Can you think of a time when you felt like your heart was finding fault with you? How did remembering God's love and understanding help you?
5. How can we show gratitude to God for always knowing us completely and still loving us unconditionally?

Life Application

This Bible verse is a reminder that even when we feel guilty or unsure of ourselves, God knows everything about us and loves us unconditionally. Children can apply this message by remembering that they are valuable and loved by God, no matter what mistakes they may make. When they feel down on themselves or criticized by others, they can find comfort in God’s unwavering love and forgiveness. This can help them to have confidence, treat themselves and others with kindness, and trust in God’s perfect understanding of them.

Craft or Activity

Let's make "God is Greater" bracelets! You will need beads, string, and letter beads. As you string the beads, discuss how God is greater than our doubts and fears. Each time they look at their bracelet, they can remember the message of 1 John 3:20 and be reminded of God's love and understanding for them.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

When doubts fill your mind, don't fall apart,
Remember God knows you, right from the start.
In 1 John 3:20, it's clear and true,
God's love is greater, He knows all about you!

Songs or Videos

One great Christian song for kids that relates to the message of 1 John 3:20 is "My Lighthouse" by Rend Collective. This song reminds us that God is our light and guide, even when we feel unsure or doubtful.

Another wonderful song is "You Know Me" by Bethel Music Kids. This song reassures children that God knows everything about them, loves them unconditionally, and is always there for them.

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