Hands-on Faith for Families– Week of April 17, 2017
Theme: Let God Give You a Cheerful Heart
The Benefits of Joy
Scripture: Then he said to them, “Go your way. Eat the fat and drink sweet wine and send portions to anyone who has nothing ready, for this day is holy to our Lord. And do not be grieved, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” (Nehemiah 8:10 ESV).
Play: Ask your family if they’ve ever seen a weight lifter show off his arm muscles. Encourage your kids to flex their biceps if they want. Then, ask your family to do this strength experiment: Place elbows on the table and put hands on either side of the face (not under the chin). Then, lean the weight of your head into your hands. Look around the table at each person’s face as you do this. What do you see? Resting the weight of your head in your hands pulls the sides of your mouth up into a smile.
Talk: We can rely on God to strengthen us when we place our lives in His hands. Just as the strength of your arm muscles held your head up, God strengthens us. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us, “The joy of the Lord is your strength.” When we face challenges in life, it’s uplifting to know God is with us. His presence brings us joy and helps us face obstacles. That’s a truth sure to make us smile!
Pray: Thank God for the strength He gives you each day.
—Kathleen Welty
