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 you explore God’s Word together as a family, mix up your routine by spending part of your Bible time outside. God created our world, and natural objects can be used to teach your children truths about Him. Here are a few ideas to get you started: rainbows, sunsets, snow, flowers, birds, weeds, rocks, stars, and even ants. Begin the following activity about 15 minutes before sunset.

Family Bible Activity:

Bible Story:

God chose Israel for a special purpose. Through this nation, God would fulfill His promise to Abraham to bless all the peoples of the earth. When Israel became increasingly disobedient, God raised up prophets to remind them of their calling to be a holy, set-apart people who reflected God to the surrounding nations. These prophets called Israel to repent and tried to guide the people back to God. Although some prophetic writings in the Old Testament focus on Israel, many prophecies reveal God’s heart and future plans for the nations. Read the following passages with your family: Isaiah 12:4-6, Zechariah 2:10-11, and Malachi 1:11. If your children are fluent readers, give them some verses to read aloud. Then gather outside to do the following related activity.

Family Activity:

Remind your family that in these passages, people who knew God were invited to shout and sing praises so that the whole world would know what God has done. Explain that God’s name will be great from one end of the world to the other, and everywhere in between. Point out the place where the sun rises and sets in your neighborhood. Ask your family if they think they can shout loudly enough for the whole world to hear – from where the sun rises to where it sets? Hold a contest to see who can shout the loudest. Invite one child to turn towards the setting sun and shout “God is great!” Then have him turn in the direction where the sun will rise and shout “God is great!” Allow each family member to try this. 

Use a “God-sized” lens. How did the messages God sent through His prophets demonstrate the greatness of His love and concern for unreached peoples? Pray that God would show your family different ways to tell the world what He has done.

(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!)