The Promise Passed Down- Isaac
The promise God made to Abraham was for both him and his offspring. God’s blessing was passed down to Abraham’s son, Isaac. God commanded Isaac to stay in the land promised to him, even during a great famine. Despite Isaac’s fear and opposition from neighboring herdsmen, he obeyed in faith. God repeated His promise afresh to Isaac, ensuring him of His presence, blessing, and purpose… “through your offspring, all nations on earth will be blessed.” (Genesis 26:4)
Bible: With your family, read Genesis 25:11, 21-26 and Genesis 26:1-6, 12-14, 24-25.
Family Activity 1:
Teaching Time: first day, 5 minutes; second day, 45 minutes
Materials: party supplies (hats, balloons, candles, presents, party favors), cake/cupcakes
Pick two back-to-back days for this activity. On the first day, gather your children and tell them a story about a birthday party you attended. Share about all the fun things you did that made that party great. The next day, set up a party in your home while you kids are sleeping/away. When your children awake/arrive home, invite them to the party! Enjoy all the fun that birthday parties normally entail. While you enjoy your party dessert, talk about Isaac. Isaac first learned about God and His promises by listening to his father Abraham’s experiences. Then God spoke directly to Isaac. God wants each of us to know and experience Him in a personal way, not just hear about Him through others.
Discuss:
- Which would you rather do – listen to someone tell you about a birthday party, like I did yesterday, or go to the birthday party yourself? What are some things about birthday parties that we can only experience if we are actually there?
- What is the difference between hearing your parents talk about God and actually knowing God yourself? What is the benefit of knowing God personally? How can we continue to get to know God better and experience more of who He is?
Family Activity 2:
Teaching Time: 12 minutes
Materials: squares of paper, scissors
Make your own paper snowflakes or follow these directions.
- Fold the paper square in half to form a rectangle.
- Fold in half again to form a square.
- Rotate the square to make a diamond shape. The tip corresponding to the paper’s center (when unfolded) should be pointing downwards.
- Fold the paper in half vertically to form a triangle.
- Keeping the paper folded, cut away shapes along the edges.
- Unfold the paper. Look at your creation.
Discuss:
- When did you see your snowflake’s full design—before or after you unfolded the paper? What happened to the small number of cuts you made around the outside of the paper? God did not show Abraham or Isaac the full picture of how He would bless all the families of the earth through them. What are some ways that Abraham and Isaac were obedient to the small part that God did show them? Their faithful actions had an impact on many, many future generations, including ours.
- Look at your snowflake creations and discuss how they are different? In nature, every snowflake is unique. In the same way, God has a unique role for each of us and for our family. Are we willing to live it out?
Pray:
Ask God to reveal your family’s unique role in His purposes and give you willing hearts to respond.
