Lesson #1: David and Goliath

Hi Parents:

We started the 2nd Quarter curriculum this Sunday.  Here is the Teaching Schedule for the next 13 weeks.  Basically we will be covering the period of the Kings of Israel from the time of David (United Kingdom) to when Israel divided into the Northern (Israel) and Southern (Judah) Kingdoms. Along the way the kids will also be studying the Prophets of Jonah, Elijah, and Elisha.   Here is a handy Timeline of the History of Israel that puts it all into perspective.

Today's lesson was the timeless story of David and Goliath, found in 1 Samuel 17.  Here is the Teacher Devotion, while the student take home sheets and theme poster for Lesson #1 can be found in the Parents Corner, in case your kids misplaced the copy provided today.

One of the main points we shared today was the distinctiveness of the courage displayed by David. David's courage was more than male bravado.  While everyone in Israel and even their own King Saul feared the Giant Philistine, David saw the mockery of Goliath as an insult against God, and he was willing to do what no one else in Israel was willing to do, namely, stand up against Goliath for the Lord's name and honor. And in doing so, he showed his fellow Israelites that the Lord would deliver him and display His greatness for all to see.

I just wanted to share that I asked the kids, "what are some of the "Goliath's" [their greatest fears] that they face in life.  There were some very honest answers.  Some shared that they feared being made fun of, not fitting in, having to wear nice clothes so that they are part of the "cool crowd." Another shared they were afraid that others would find out that they were a Christian.  I found it very refreshing to hear this and told them that the fears they face now are not any different than the fears we face as adults.   But that we as Christians, like David, have the God of Angel Armies on our side.  Like David, if we know and believe He is with us, we can overcome our greatest fears.   I would encourage you all to talk about the "Goliath's" we face in life this week with your little ones.

Blessings!  Brian