Lesson Learned: Give thanks to God for all things.
Materials Needed: 3+ sheets of construction paper, scissors, marker
Bible Verse:
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Ephesians 5:20
20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Talking Points: We are about to celebrate a holiday called Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a great time to remember all the wonderful things God has done for you and our family. Thanksgiving is not the only time we should thank God for these things though. God tells us in the Bible that we should thank Him for all things, in all circumstances. God likes you to tell Him thank You, just like your mom and dad do!
Questions: What are you most thankful for today? Why? Have you thanked God for it? When are some times that you need to tell someone thank you (eg. when your friend shares a toy, when your Sunday school teacher gives you your snack, when someone helps you open a door, etc).
Activity: We are making “thanksgiving flowers.” You could make several flowers and use them as a Thanksgiving centerpiece!
Step 1: Roll up a piece of paper. Roll three sheets of paper lengthwise into a tube (don’t wrap too tight) and tape the tube together.
Step 2: Use scissors to cut slits one inches apart and four inches deep, all the way around the tube. Gently pull up on an inside fringe, until the “petals” appear.
Step 3: Use the marker to write the names of things you are thankful for on each petal.
Activity adapted from “Exploring Arts & Crafts with 2-6 Year Olds: The Little Hands Art Book” by Judy Press (Paper Trees, pg 124-125)
Prayer: Heavenly Father, You give and You take away. Help us to remember to thank You in ALL circumstances, always. Amen!