Parent’s Corner- February 20, 2022

“Do everything without complaining or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold ut the word of life- in order that I may boat on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing.”  Philippians 2:14-16

Complaining. We have all done it. . . probably more often than we would like to admit!  Sometimes we complain about “small” things. . . like when our brother eats the last bag of our favorite snack, or when we are asked to do a chore when we would rather do something else.  .  Sometimes we complain about “bigger” things. . . like when we are sick and can’t participate in or attend a special event, or when life just doesn’t seem “fair”.  

Where is God during all of our complaining?   Right where He has always been!  He has not changed or moved, but perhaps our perspective has.  When we complain, it is as though we believe we know what is best for us, better than anyone else.  The fact is, God is the only one who knows what is truly best for us.  Sometimes that “best” includes an exercise in contentment to grow and strengthen our character.  God allows us to have hard and difficult circumstances in our lives, but that does not mean that He doesn't love us or has left us.  Not at all!  It is at those times that we can reach out to Him and draw strength from knowing He is in control.  He is just as near during times of trial as he is during times of joy.

The next time we are struggling with complaining, let's ask ourselves if complaining will actually help the situation, and if there is a way that we might be able to help make the situation better for ourselves and others.  Is there something positive we could say or do to offset our desire to complain?  And how can we pray for God’s wisdom and guidance as we go through this circumstance?  Sometimes, this is a real challenge, but God is always here to help us!

This week in Sunday School. . . 

2s and 3s- Jesus Heals a Lame Man

Lesson Truth- Jesus healed the lame man’s legs.

Aims for the Children- to do at least one of the following during the lesson:

1. Thank God for the health we have

2. Tell who healed the lame man’s legs

3. Tell who can make us well again when we’re not well

4s-K, 1st-2nd, 3rd-5th- God Delivers Joseph

Scripture- Genesis 39-50

Principle- God is in control of every circumstance.

Ask Your Child- How did god help Joseph while he was in Egypt?

Apply- By being faithful and obedient to God during difficult times.   

This Week- As a family, read Genesis 39-50.

Next Week- Exodus 1-2

Children’s Church- Israel rejects God’s provisions

Scripture- Numbers 11-12

Principle- God is displeased when we complain.

Ask Your Child- Why did the Israelites complain about God’s provision?

Apply- By thanking god for the blessings in our lives.

This Week- As a family, read Numbers 11-12

Next Week- Numbers 13-14