Recently, my family enjoyed a vacation in the mountains. Each day we balanced on large boulders by the rushing river’s edge and marveled at the power and beauty of God’s creation. One day we found ourselves exploring quieter waters. We searched for small, flat rocks that were perfect for skipping across the top of the water and making it to the other side. Noticing the various sizes, shapes, and colors of the rocks, I thought about Psalm 18:2 and was reminded that the Lord is my rock, fortress, and deliverer! My handful of stones became a reminder of the character and nature of God. That collection of river rocks is now in my home and serves as a teaching tool.
Rocks can provide your family with a simple, hands-on way to study God’s Word. Together, you can learn about the nature of God and who He says He is by exploring what the Bible tells us about rocks. Beginning in the Old Testament and continuing into the New Testament, God tells us that He is our rock and that Jesus is the living stone! Here are some ideas for beginning an ongoing exploration of God’s Word with your children, using the theme of rocks.
-
- Look up a verse in which God refers to Himself as a rock or stone. Discuss what God wants to teach us about His character from this verse. Is He telling us that He is strong or our shelter? Is He describing His holiness?
- Now venture outside for a rock hunt! Invite each family member to find a rock. Write the reference of the verse you discussed on the rock. Work together to think of a key word that will remind you of what you learned about God. Write the key word on the rock.
- Place the rocks in a special container and celebrate the beginning of a new and ongoing collection! Watch the collection grow as your family discovers more verses about God our rock!
Make the length of this rock-themed study fit the ages and interest of your children. As you progress, challenge your children to share what they have learned about the nature of God beyond the walls of your home. Guide them in praying for opportunities to share truths about who God is with others as they go about their day. Whether your children are at school, in the park, or outside in the neighborhood, they will learn that God has provided an easy way to talk to others about who the God of the Bible is just by picking up a rock!
About The Author:
Catherine Owen has been happily married for thirty years and has raised four imperfectly perfect children. She loves teaching her two grandbabies about Jesus through songs, games, and giggles. One day their parents will find all the tiny handprints they have traced in their Bibles as they have learned scripture verses together! She believes that learning about and sharing Jesus should be the most exciting adventure that life has to offer!
