Week of 2.6.2022 | Day One
This week’s lesson from The Gospel Project for Kids takes us to the edge of the promised land. God’s people are looking into the land He promised them with great expectation. Before we get into this, let’s think about how we got to today’s story. In the beginning, God created the world. After sin entered the world through Adam and Eve’s disobedience, God promised to provide the solution for the problem of sin. He promised to bring the Rescuer through Abraham’s family.
The descendants of Abraham’s grandson Jacob—who were called Israelites—were slaves in Egypt. Moses delivered them out of Egypt and led them toward the promised land. Moses had led the Israelites through the wilderness, and the time had come to enter the land. But first, the Israelites wanted to scout the land God had promised to give them.
What came from that scouting trip? A whole lot of fear. The fear of some leaders spread through the people and caused an entire generation of Israelites to miss out on the blessing of the promised land. But we also see the faith of a few, who chose not to let fear control them. They trusted God and believed what He had told them. Their faith gave them peace with God and life.
As you and your family read in the book of Numbers this week, consider the character of God and the consequences of sin, both in the lives of the Israelites and in our own.
Big Picture Question
What is God like? God is holy, good, and loving.
Christ Connection
The Israelites did not trust God. They rebelled against Him. Jesus trusted God perfectly. He came into the world to take the punishment we deserve for our own rebellion against God. When we trust in Jesus, God forgives our sin and invites us into His kingdom forever.
Key Passage
“Who is like you, O Lord, among the gods? Who is like you, majestic in holiness, awesome in glorious deeds, doing wonders?”
Exodus 15:11
Read
Numbers 13
For families with younger kids, focus on Numbers 13 and 14:1-9, 20-24, 32-35
Discuss
The Israelites refused to enter the promised land; what did that show about their faith?
Guide kids to discuss the lack of faith shown by Israel. Ask the kids to think about all the ways God had proven His trustworthiness to His people and then form a conclusion about whether it made sense for them to doubt Him.
Pray
God, You are completely holy, wonderfully loving, and better than any good thing we can imagine. We know that the sin in our lives keeps us from You. Help us to understand who You are and what You are like. Fill us with love for You. Give us hearts that want to trust and follow You. Amen.
Family Challenge
As you and your family read Numbers together this week, talk about what fears you have and how you might be tempted to give into fear instead of trusting God. Memorize Proverbs 3:5-6 to help you remember to trust the Lord and not fear.