Big Idea: We can be generous because God generously gives to us.

Bible Passage: 2 Corinthians 8:1-7

Parent Prep: This week we begin our series on generosity. It can be a hard concept for kids. Especially in our consumer-driven society, where kids are consistently told: more is better. "The more I have, the better I am," is the message perpetually communicated through media platforms like Instagram, TV, movies and more. Kids start to compare how much they have in relation to their peers at a young age. (Just try giving one of your kids a bigger piece of cake than another). And yet God's word stands in direct opposition to this way of thinking as a cultural norm. We are taught time and time again through the teachings of Jesus, and God's instructions to His people, right throughout the Old Testament, "to give is better than to receive." So how do we help our kids cultivate a heart of generosity? Acknowledging that it is difficult is a start- this helps them feel okay about finding it hard to share what they have. But truly, the best way to help children be generous is to show them how generous God has been to us, and show them what an incredible difference it can make in the lives of others- and how much joy this brings to us in the process. This week we begin by assuring them that by 'giving and giving and giving', we are not in fact, missing out ourselves. We give what God has given to us, and His blessings never ever run out.

Read: 2 Corinthians 8:1-7 in a children's Bible, and watch this video on Generosity, here.

Listen: Do you feel blessed? Why or why not? Would you say we have a lot? Or a little? Do you know someone who has more than you? Can you think of someone who has less than you? Can you think of anyone who has nothing? 

What do you think God has given us? Help children by writing down or drawing together things they can easily see are blessings from God. Then suggest more abstract blessings you can think of like, a safe neighbourhood, a loving family, a car with lots of seats, family holidays together.

Why do you think He has given us these things? Why do you think He has given us so much, when other people have so little?

Talk: Read together 1 John 3:17. John is saying here that people who truly know and receive generous love and blessings from God, overflow it outwards towards others. What are some ways we can overflow our blessings onto other people? Our God's love never ever runs out, and God promises that those who give in His name will lack nothing. Take another look at your list of blessings. What are some ways you can pour these blessings out generously onto others?

Do: Place an empty cup in a mixing bowl. Fill a jug with water. Have children name a blessing that God has given your family. As they name it, have them pour water into the cup. Keep going around all members of your family and watch as the cup overflows. Remind children that God gives and gives and gives and never runs out of love and blessings for His beloved children. We can give and give to others out of the abundance God has blessed us with.

Have a great week!