When we consistently use a “God-sized” lens to share God’s Word with our family, it broadens our children’s understanding of who God is and how He acts in our world. It also changes how our children view themselves, their blessings, and their purpose. 

Sharing the Bible with our children through a “God-sized” lens is not difficult. It just requires that we consistently frame every story with these truths:

• God is the main character of every story.
• God is always at work to make Himself known.
• God blesses His people for a greater purpose that includes others.

Bible Time Tip:

As your family explores God’s Word together, add in a simple demonstration or science experiment. Hands-on engagement increases your children’s attention span, deepens their understanding, and fixes important ideas in their minds.

Family Bible Activity:

Bible Story:

God gave Moses laws and decrees to prepare God’s people for life in the land they were entering. By observing God’s laws, Israel would show their wisdom and understanding to the people already living there. As these nations observed the close relationship between Israel and their God, these nations would be drawn to this wise and loving God. 

Read Deuteronomy 4:5-8 and 30:15-20 with your family. Then do the following science experiment together.

Family Activity:

You will need: small jar with lid, water, cooking oil, and dishwashing liquid/liquid detergent.

1. Explain that the land God’s people entered was not empty. Nations who worshiped idols and false gods already lived there. Invite one child to add water to the jar until it is half full.

2. God knew that if Israel began to follow the customs of the people in the land, Israel would become just like everyone else. Have a child add more water to fill up the jar. Observe how the two rounds of water blend together. 

3. God’s laws would help Israel maintain their relationship with Him and remain distinct in their worship and behavior. Add 30 ml (2 T) of cooking oil to the jar, screw on the lid, and shake. Observe the distinct layers of liquid. God never wanted Israel to become isolated from the other nations.

4. God wanted Israel to demonstrate His greatness as they lived out His commands among the nations. Remove the jar lid, add a few squirts of dishwashing liquid or detergent, and screw on the lid. Have a child shake the jar. Observe how the oil is distributed throughout the water. As the nations observed how great, wise, and loving Israel’s God was, some people would turn away from their idols and follow Him. 

Use a “God-sized” lens. How did God’s laws for Israel become a blessing to other nations living in the land? Pray that God would show your family creative ways to demonstrate your faith to nonbelievers.

(This Bible story activity is framed with a “God-sized” lens. For more stories and activities shared through a “God-sized” lens, download One Big Story for free!)