The Rise of Fall
Key Verse: “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him”
(James 1:5)
Our hope is for our kids to know that: A self centered attitude hurts God and others
Read:
(Open the bible and read to your child 2 Samuel 15:1-12; 17:1-12; 18:1-8) Absalom was one of David’s sons. Before this story takes place however, David would not see Absalom because Absalom killed Amnon, who was also David’s son. After a few years David finally forgave Absalom, however David was unaware that Absalom was trying to win converts to join him so that he could overthrow David and become King himself. When David heard of this, he was planning to flee Jerusalem, however since Absalom did not attack David right away, David was able to form an army and fight Absalom.
Share:
(This is an opportunity for you to ask some questions and to share your thoughts) Parents: Talk about a time self-centered attitudes played a role in your family. What happened? Then encourage your children to think about ways they’ve seen family members demonstrate love, rather than self-centeredness, toward one another—by taking out the trash, shoveling the walk without being asked, putting away clean dishes, or taking time to give a brother or sister encouragement, for example. Give a rousing family cheer for each person as stories are told about him or her. Be sure no one is left out. Then talk with your children about how self-centered attitudes hurt God and others.
Activity/Challenge for Families:
Give paper, pens, and $500 of play money to every member of your family and announce its Extremely Early Christmas Shopping Day. The goal: Go to a local mall, and “buy” Christmas presents for everyone in your family. The rules: 1) nothing can actually be purchased. 2) You can’t pick out anything for yourself 3) You can’t spend more than $500 total (all gifts) 4) You must agree on a time limit. When finished discuss the experience over pizza or ice cream.