Lesson Learned: God sent bread down from Heaven to feed the Israelites in the desert.
Materials Needed: one or 2 pieces of bread, small bowl
Bible Verse:
Exodus 16:11-18
11 The LORD said to Moses, 12 “I have heard the grumbling of the Israelites. Tell them, ‘At twilight you will eat meat, and in the morning you will be filled with bread. Then you will know that I am the LORD your God.’”
13 That evening quail came and covered the camp, and in the morning there was a layer of dew around the camp. 14 When the dew was gone, thin flakes like frost on the ground appeared on the desert floor. 15 When the Israelites saw it, they said to each other, “What is it?” For they did not know what it was.
Moses said to them, “It is the bread the LORD has given you to eat. 16 This is what the LORD has commanded: ‘Everyone is to gather as much as they need. Take an omer for each person you have in your tent.’”
17 The Israelites did as they were told; some gathered much, some little. 18 And when they measured it by the omer, the one who gathered much did not have too much, and the one who gathered little did not have too little. Everyone had gathered just as much as they needed.
Talking Points: A long time ago, God’s chosen people, the Israelites, were wandering in the desert and were complaining because they were hungry and did not have anything to eat. God told them not to complain; He would send down bread from the heavens for them to eat and would give each person exactly what he/she needed. The next day, when the Israelites woke up there was plenty of bread for all of them to eat. Just like He promised, God provided them with bread to eat. God always provides for us when we need it (and even when we don’t!)
Questions: Why were the Israelites complaining? Do you complain or get grumpy when you’re hungry?
Activity:
With the child’s help, break the bread into small pieces and roll it into balls. Then, gather the bread balls in the bowl. Eat and enjoy after gathering.
Prayer: Dear Lord, You are our great Provider and You provide for all our needs. Keep us from complaining and grumbling about anything. Amen!