Lesson: John 4:38 (Ages 3-5)

📖 John 4:38 – Ages 3-5

Explanation

This Bible verse from John 4:38 is like a beautiful garden story, where some people planted seeds, watered the plants, and took care of the garden. Then, others come along and get to pick the ripe, juicy fruits and colorful flowers, even though they didn't do the planting and watering.

In the same way, God sends us into the world to bring love, kindness, and happiness to others, just like picking fruits in a garden. Sometimes, we get to enjoy good things that others worked hard for, like when we receive a gift or help from someone. It's a special way of showing that we are all connected and can help each other in God's big garden of love.

So, let's remember to be grateful for the good things we have and to share our love and kindness with others, just like the people who worked hard in the garden before us.

Kid's Story

Once upon a time, in a sunny meadow, there was a little bunny named Benny. Benny loved to eat juicy carrots that grew in the garden. One day, Benny found the garden full of ripe carrots. He happily munched on them, not realizing how they grew.

As Benny enjoyed his meal, a wise old squirrel named Sam approached him. Sam told Benny, "You are enjoying these carrots, but remember, others worked hard to plant and care for them before you could enjoy them."

Benny thought about it and realized he hadn't worked for the carrots at all. He thanked Sam for teaching him this valuable lesson. From that day on, Benny made sure to help plant seeds and water the garden, understanding the importance of appreciating the hard work of others.

Prayer Prompt

Dear God, thank you for all the good things we have in our lives. Help us remember that we have so many blessings because of the hard work of others. Let us always be grateful and willing to help others too. Amen.

Discussion Questions

1. Can you think of a time when someone did something for you without you having to do anything?
2. How do you feel when someone helps you without asking for anything in return?
3. Who are some people in your life who have worked hard to make things better for you?
4. What are some ways you can show gratitude to those who have helped you, even if you didn't ask for their help?
5. How can you help others who may benefit from your work or kindness?

Life Application

This Bible verse is reminding us that sometimes we get to enjoy good things or blessings that we didn't work for ourselves. It teaches us to be grateful for the hard work of others that allows us to benefit from it.

Children can apply this message in their everyday life by showing gratitude. They can say thank you to their parents for cooking them a meal, to their teachers for teaching them new things, and to their friends for sharing toys or playing together. By showing appreciation for the efforts of others, children can learn to be thankful and kind.

Craft or Activity

Let's create a simple craft to help children understand the message of John 4:38!

Materials needed:
- Paper
- Markers or crayons
- Stickers or other decorative items

Instructions:
1. Begin by having the child draw a field on the paper. This can be a simple green rectangle with lines to represent rows of crops.
2. Discuss with the child that in the Bible verse, Jesus is telling his followers that they are reaping a harvest that they did not work for. Explain that just like in a field, sometimes we benefit from the hard work of others.
3. Have the child decorate the field with stickers or drawings of people working in the field. This can represent the hard work of others that we benefit from.
4. Encourage the child to reflect on how they can show gratitude for the work of others and how they can help others in return.

This hands-on activity can help children visualize the message of the Bible verse and understand the concept of benefiting from the work of others.

Memory Verse or Rhyme

God sent us out to reap with joy,
Others worked hard, we’re not the ploy.
We enjoy the fruits, not from our toil,
But from those who tilled the soil!

Songs or Videos

There are many wonderful Christian songs for kids that can relate to the message of John 4:38. One great song is "We Are One in the Spirit" which emphasizes unity and working together for God's kingdom. Another song is "The Fruit of the Spirit" which highlights the blessings we receive from the work of those who came before us. Both of these songs can help children understand the importance of teamwork and cooperation in serving God.

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