Help your kids handle the bad news we see in the media by reminding them of God’s ultimate authority and power.
Say this: Recently our country remembered one of the darkest days in our nations history. On September 11th, 2001 (9/11) terrorists hi-jacked planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center and Pentagon. They also planned to crash a plane into the Capitol building, but some heroic Americans sacrificed their lives to prevent this from happening. The attacks led to incredible damage, and the death of over 3000 Americans. When things like this happen, people often ask questions like “Where is God?” or “Why did God allow this to happen?”. Let’s watch this scene from “Miracles From Heaven” where a mother wondered if God was there.
Watch This:
Say This: We must remember that God never told us that we would be free from trouble. In fact, in John 16:33 Jesus said “In this world you will have trouble.” As believers, when we see and experience suffering in our lives it is important that we remember two things:
- The suffering and pain of this world is only temporary when compared to eternity. Read 2 Corinthians 4:16-18
- God has a perfect plan for all things, and the suffering we see is only part of that Plan. Listen to how the Bible explains this truth in 1 Corinthians 13:12: “Now we see things imperfectly, like puzzling reflections in a mirror, but then we will see everything with perfect clarity. All that I know now is partial and incomplete, but then I will know everything completely, just as God now knows me completely. “ (NLT)
Ask This:
- What are some things that you have seen on TV that have frightened you?
- What are some difficult things that our family has faced?
- What are some ways that we have seen God work through that situation?
Try This: Think of someone in your life (Family member, teacher, neighbor, etc.) that is facing some difficult circumstances. Have your family write some notes or draw pictures to encouraging them. Try to use the include the verses above Pick a time to drop them off as a family, and take the family for a treat afterwards.
Pray This: Dear God, we don’t always understand why you allow certain things to happen, and sometimes find ourselves asking “Why.” Remind our family of all the ways you have blessed us, and that you are always faithful. Help us remember that although we will experience times of trouble, these are only temporary and are part of your perfect plan. Help us to be aware of people around of us who are hurting, and show us ways that we can encourage them. In Jesus name we pray, Amen.