Monday, August 31, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Lot's Discovery
By Mary Vee
We left our story on Tuesday with Lot's wife taking a peek back at Sodom, the city she loved.
The family arrived in Zoar and fell to the ground out of breath. They weren't use to exercise and Lot was getting old.
Relieved his family was safe, he found a spot with soft green grass. His family joined him. Before he knew it, he fell asleep.
Lot woke sometime later and saw his girls sleeping. He looked around and didn't see his wife.
"Girls, wake up. Where's your mother?"
The girls helped him search.
Maybe she walked to the stores. They searched in the city square, but couldn't find her.
As they ran from store to store, Lot saw kids stealing, a gang beating an old man, and other terrible sins that he didn't want to say. This city reminded him of Sodom.
After searching the last store inside the city, they ran outside the city wall. Lot's daughter pointed to a strange site. A statue, made of salt, faced the city of Sodom. It had a hand raised to block sun from it's eyes.
Lot walked closer and gasped. It was his wife!
"Oh my dear wife, why did you look back?" He cried and hugged his daughters.
Suddenly a loud bang came from inside the city.
Lot began to shake. He looked back at the city gate and saw three men with clubs in their hands.
"That's it. We're not staying here girls. This city is as bad as Sodom and Gomorrah. Who knows if God may decide to destroy it as well."
Lot and his two daughters left Zoar. They hiked up the closest mountain and found a big, quiet cave. It looked clean and had big flat boulders that could be used for beds and a table.
"This is where the angel told us to go. I should have listened the first time."
A tear dripped down his cheek.
The angels told Lot to go live in a cave in the mountains. What do you think it would be like to live in a cave? How would the story have been different if Lot went the cave instead of going to Zoar? Click on the comment button to tell us what you think.
We left our story on Tuesday with Lot's wife taking a peek back at Sodom, the city she loved.
The family arrived in Zoar and fell to the ground out of breath. They weren't use to exercise and Lot was getting old.
Relieved his family was safe, he found a spot with soft green grass. His family joined him. Before he knew it, he fell asleep.
Lot woke sometime later and saw his girls sleeping. He looked around and didn't see his wife.
"Girls, wake up. Where's your mother?"
The girls helped him search.
Maybe she walked to the stores. They searched in the city square, but couldn't find her.
As they ran from store to store, Lot saw kids stealing, a gang beating an old man, and other terrible sins that he didn't want to say. This city reminded him of Sodom.
After searching the last store inside the city, they ran outside the city wall. Lot's daughter pointed to a strange site. A statue, made of salt, faced the city of Sodom. It had a hand raised to block sun from it's eyes.
Lot walked closer and gasped. It was his wife!
"Oh my dear wife, why did you look back?" He cried and hugged his daughters.
Suddenly a loud bang came from inside the city.
Lot began to shake. He looked back at the city gate and saw three men with clubs in their hands.
"That's it. We're not staying here girls. This city is as bad as Sodom and Gomorrah. Who knows if God may decide to destroy it as well."
Lot and his two daughters left Zoar. They hiked up the closest mountain and found a big, quiet cave. It looked clean and had big flat boulders that could be used for beds and a table.
"This is where the angel told us to go. I should have listened the first time."
A tear dripped down his cheek.
The angels told Lot to go live in a cave in the mountains. What do you think it would be like to live in a cave? How would the story have been different if Lot went the cave instead of going to Zoar? Click on the comment button to tell us what you think.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Lot's Wife Preferred Salt
By Mary Vee
I hope you had as much fun finding the Genesis names as I had making the puzzle:)
Time to finish the story of Sodom and Gomorrah.
We left Lot and his family outside the city walls of Sodom. The angels told them to run away to the mountains as fast as they could and not look back.
Even though Sodom had big, big problems with sin, Lot really liked living there...a lot.
He and his wife looked at each other. A tear dripped down her cheek. "What about my friends, Lot? What about our house? What about the great stores, and all the great things in Sodom. Must we leave? Is it really that bad?
Lot rolled his lips inside his mouth. So many thoughts ran through his mind. Maybe he could witness to the people. Maybe he could try harder to help the people of Sodom to be good.
He turned to the angels, "Wait! Maybe, maybe we could..." He turned to the east and thought of the city of Zoar. That's it! "Please, my lords, you have been so kind to us. My family can't flee to the mountains. We can't survive there. Look, over there at Zoar. It's close by. Oh, and it's small, isn't it? We could run there and be able to find a way to live there."
The angel sighed. "Very well, you can go live there. We will spare that town for your sake. But you must run there quickly."
The second Lot and his family reached Zoar, God sent fiery rain made of sulfur on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. The cities and all the crops and other plants burned.
Lot's wife was sad. She thought about her house, her friends, her stores, her stuff, and all the things that meant so much to her in Sodom. She knew the angel told them to run away and to not look back, but what would one glance hurt? She'd only take a peek. She just wanted to know if maybe some of the town would be spared. She would go back and help the people clean up the mess. They could rebuild her house. She started to turn her head and.....
Do you know what happened to Lot's wife? Click on the comment button and tell me.
Also, think back or look back at the Bible stories on this blog. Do you remember what Abraham's wife, Sarah, did when God asked them to leave their comfy home in the big city of Haran? Help me figure this out.
I hope you had as much fun finding the Genesis names as I had making the puzzle:)
Time to finish the story of Sodom and Gomorrah.
We left Lot and his family outside the city walls of Sodom. The angels told them to run away to the mountains as fast as they could and not look back.
Even though Sodom had big, big problems with sin, Lot really liked living there...a lot.
He and his wife looked at each other. A tear dripped down her cheek. "What about my friends, Lot? What about our house? What about the great stores, and all the great things in Sodom. Must we leave? Is it really that bad?
Lot rolled his lips inside his mouth. So many thoughts ran through his mind. Maybe he could witness to the people. Maybe he could try harder to help the people of Sodom to be good.
He turned to the angels, "Wait! Maybe, maybe we could..." He turned to the east and thought of the city of Zoar. That's it! "Please, my lords, you have been so kind to us. My family can't flee to the mountains. We can't survive there. Look, over there at Zoar. It's close by. Oh, and it's small, isn't it? We could run there and be able to find a way to live there."
The angel sighed. "Very well, you can go live there. We will spare that town for your sake. But you must run there quickly."
The second Lot and his family reached Zoar, God sent fiery rain made of sulfur on the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah. The cities and all the crops and other plants burned.
Lot's wife was sad. She thought about her house, her friends, her stores, her stuff, and all the things that meant so much to her in Sodom. She knew the angel told them to run away and to not look back, but what would one glance hurt? She'd only take a peek. She just wanted to know if maybe some of the town would be spared. She would go back and help the people clean up the mess. They could rebuild her house. She started to turn her head and.....
Do you know what happened to Lot's wife? Click on the comment button and tell me.
Also, think back or look back at the Bible stories on this blog. Do you remember what Abraham's wife, Sarah, did when God asked them to leave their comfy home in the big city of Haran? Help me figure this out.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Don't Look Back
By Mary Vee
Lot, his family, and the two visitors had a rough night. No one could sleep with all the noise going on in the city of Sodom.
Just before the sun rose the two visitors, who were angels, walked to the widow. "Lot, you and your family need to leave. Don't take time to pack anything."
Lot brushed his beard and looked at his wife. He new she loved all the fancy stores. Sure the people did bad things, OK they did really bad things. But his wife really loved living in the same neighborhood with the famous people.
The angels peeked out the window and saw the sun starting to rise. "Now, Lot. Take your wife and your two daughters and get out of here. Hurry or you will be killed!"
Lot's heart beat faster. He looked at the angels who were pacing and then at his wife who nodded her head and said, "No, I won't leave."
The angels looked at each other. "We can't wait another second." They grabbed Lot, his wife, and two daughters and led them safely out of the city. As they passed the city wall the angels let go of them. "Now get out of here Lot. Run, all of you, as fast as you can. DON'T LOOK BACK. Don't stop. Keep running until you get to the mountains or you will die in the firestorm."
Did Lot take his family and run to the mountains? Click on the comment buton below and tell us what happened next. We'll finish the story next Tuesday.
Lot, his family, and the two visitors had a rough night. No one could sleep with all the noise going on in the city of Sodom.
Just before the sun rose the two visitors, who were angels, walked to the widow. "Lot, you and your family need to leave. Don't take time to pack anything."
Lot brushed his beard and looked at his wife. He new she loved all the fancy stores. Sure the people did bad things, OK they did really bad things. But his wife really loved living in the same neighborhood with the famous people.
The angels peeked out the window and saw the sun starting to rise. "Now, Lot. Take your wife and your two daughters and get out of here. Hurry or you will be killed!"
Lot's heart beat faster. He looked at the angels who were pacing and then at his wife who nodded her head and said, "No, I won't leave."
The angels looked at each other. "We can't wait another second." They grabbed Lot, his wife, and two daughters and led them safely out of the city. As they passed the city wall the angels let go of them. "Now get out of here Lot. Run, all of you, as fast as you can. DON'T LOOK BACK. Don't stop. Keep running until you get to the mountains or you will die in the firestorm."
Did Lot take his family and run to the mountains? Click on the comment buton below and tell us what happened next. We'll finish the story next Tuesday.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Let God Take Care of You.
By Mary Vee
Two Angels left Abraham’s camp and walked to Sodom.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
God Listened to Abraham's Request to Help Lot
By Mary Vee
In the last story, we talked about a time when the Lord and two angels visited Abraham. They ate a meal together and talked. As the three visitors got up to leave, the Lord decided to tell Abraham about the problems in Sodom and Gomorrah. "The sin in these two cities is so very terrible."
Abraham knew what God meant. The people in the city would have to be punished.
Abraham also realized that the sins were bad enough that God would have to destroy the two cities.
The two angels turned away and walked toward Sodom. They wanted to see how bad things were.
Abraham watched them walk away. He immediately thought about his nephew Lot. Even though Lot was a rascal, Abraham loved him and cared very much about Lot and his family.
Abraham moved closer to the Lord. He looked over at the angels walking away then back to the Lord. "Will you punish the people in Sodom who love you along with the people who don't?"
Abraham squinted his eyes and looked in the direction of Sodom. "What if there are fifty people in the city who love you, will you really destroy the city and not spare it for those fifty people?"
The Lord answered, "If I can find fifty people who love me in Sodom, I will spare the whole city just for them."
Abraham wiped the sweat from his forehead and thought for a second then said, "I know I have been bold. I'm not worthy to ask you for this, but what if there were 45 people who loved you in Sodom. Will you destroy the whole city because there were 5 less people who love you?"
The Lord said "If I find forty-five people there who love me, I will not destroy it."
God knew Abraham was trying to save Lot and his family. He stood there patiently and listened to Abraham.
Abraham ask the Lord to save Sodom if there were forty people who loved Him, then thirty people, then twenty, and finally for ten people. Each time the Lord said, "For the sake of those people I will not destroy it."
Abraham knew that Lot and his wife only had two daughters. Maybe he'd hope there were at least six other people in the city who loved God. He wasn't sure.
What we do know, is God wants us to ask Him to help the people we love. Next Wednesday we will see how God helped Lot and his family.
God loves you! He wants to take care of you and the people you love.
Sometimes we don't see the ways God takes care of us. Can you share something that God did for someone else, someone from the Bible or maybe something God did for you? Click on the comment button below to share.
In the last story, we talked about a time when the Lord and two angels visited Abraham. They ate a meal together and talked. As the three visitors got up to leave, the Lord decided to tell Abraham about the problems in Sodom and Gomorrah. "The sin in these two cities is so very terrible."
Abraham knew what God meant. The people in the city would have to be punished.
Abraham also realized that the sins were bad enough that God would have to destroy the two cities.
The two angels turned away and walked toward Sodom. They wanted to see how bad things were.
Abraham watched them walk away. He immediately thought about his nephew Lot. Even though Lot was a rascal, Abraham loved him and cared very much about Lot and his family.
Abraham moved closer to the Lord. He looked over at the angels walking away then back to the Lord. "Will you punish the people in Sodom who love you along with the people who don't?"
Abraham squinted his eyes and looked in the direction of Sodom. "What if there are fifty people in the city who love you, will you really destroy the city and not spare it for those fifty people?"
The Lord answered, "If I can find fifty people who love me in Sodom, I will spare the whole city just for them."
Abraham wiped the sweat from his forehead and thought for a second then said, "I know I have been bold. I'm not worthy to ask you for this, but what if there were 45 people who loved you in Sodom. Will you destroy the whole city because there were 5 less people who love you?"
The Lord said "If I find forty-five people there who love me, I will not destroy it."
God knew Abraham was trying to save Lot and his family. He stood there patiently and listened to Abraham.
Abraham ask the Lord to save Sodom if there were forty people who loved Him, then thirty people, then twenty, and finally for ten people. Each time the Lord said, "For the sake of those people I will not destroy it."
Abraham knew that Lot and his wife only had two daughters. Maybe he'd hope there were at least six other people in the city who loved God. He wasn't sure.
What we do know, is God wants us to ask Him to help the people we love. Next Wednesday we will see how God helped Lot and his family.
God loves you! He wants to take care of you and the people you love.
Sometimes we don't see the ways God takes care of us. Can you share something that God did for someone else, someone from the Bible or maybe something God did for you? Click on the comment button below to share.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Is Anything Too Hard for God to Do?
By Mary Vee
Abraham sat in a chair, sweating. He took a sip of water and wiped his forehead. "Well, Sarah, it's a hot day."
Sarah laughed. "Dear husband, I think I figured that out by myself. Sitting here inside the tent with my mending hasn't kept the heat away."
They thanked God for the great tree by Mamre that gave them what little shade they could find. Their tent-like home fit perfectly underneath it.
Abraham looked out at the ridge. Something moved. His old eyes didn't always see things clearly anymore. There, he saw a movement again. It came closer. No, it wasn't one. There were three. Three men. His eyes focused on them. Oh, they look hot and thirsty.
Abraham ran to them and bowed low to the ground. "Please stop here at my tent. Let me give you something to drink and maybe something to eat. We can wash the dust from the road off your feet."
Abraham was that kind of man. He just loved helping people!
The visitors said, "Sure, it would be nice."
Abraham ran to his tent. Can you imagine a 90 year old man running to his tent?
Huffing and puffing he said to Sarah, "Hurry, make some bread, we have company."
She smiled and giggled with delight. "That's wonderful, I love when company comes to visit. I'll make the bread right away."
While she made the bread, Abraham ran to his herd and picked the best one he had to be cooked for a meal. Soon the food was ready. Abraham served his company in the shade while Sarah stayed in the tent finishing up a few things. She enjoyed listening to the conversation. She crept closer to the entrance to the tent to hear better.
One man said, "I will come back next year and at that time, Sarah, your wife will have a son."
Abraham realized only the Lord would know that. Ooo, that meant the Lord had come to visit him!
But maybe Sarah hadn't figured that out yet.
Sarah laughed to herself, "How can we have a son we we are both so old?"
The Lord said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh? Is anything too hard for the Lord to do? I will return to you next year and Sarah will have a son."
Sarah took a few steps out of the tent. She bit her lip and lowered her head. "Sir, you must be mistaken, I didn't laugh"
The Lord looked at her. "Yes, you did laugh.
Sarah realized then who had spoken to her. A tear dripped out of her eye.
Sometimes we think God can't help our problems. Why bother asking Him for help? No one can help. We pout and stand off by ourselves.
Let's encourage each other today. Tell how God can help someone with their problem. You can use a Bible story, something God did for someone else, or share something God did for you. Click on the comment button below to share your idea.
You start, then I will share a time God helped me.
Abraham sat in a chair, sweating. He took a sip of water and wiped his forehead. "Well, Sarah, it's a hot day."
Sarah laughed. "Dear husband, I think I figured that out by myself. Sitting here inside the tent with my mending hasn't kept the heat away."
They thanked God for the great tree by Mamre that gave them what little shade they could find. Their tent-like home fit perfectly underneath it.
Abraham looked out at the ridge. Something moved. His old eyes didn't always see things clearly anymore. There, he saw a movement again. It came closer. No, it wasn't one. There were three. Three men. His eyes focused on them. Oh, they look hot and thirsty.
Abraham ran to them and bowed low to the ground. "Please stop here at my tent. Let me give you something to drink and maybe something to eat. We can wash the dust from the road off your feet."
Abraham was that kind of man. He just loved helping people!
The visitors said, "Sure, it would be nice."
Abraham ran to his tent. Can you imagine a 90 year old man running to his tent?
Huffing and puffing he said to Sarah, "Hurry, make some bread, we have company."
She smiled and giggled with delight. "That's wonderful, I love when company comes to visit. I'll make the bread right away."
While she made the bread, Abraham ran to his herd and picked the best one he had to be cooked for a meal. Soon the food was ready. Abraham served his company in the shade while Sarah stayed in the tent finishing up a few things. She enjoyed listening to the conversation. She crept closer to the entrance to the tent to hear better.
One man said, "I will come back next year and at that time, Sarah, your wife will have a son."
Abraham realized only the Lord would know that. Ooo, that meant the Lord had come to visit him!
But maybe Sarah hadn't figured that out yet.
Sarah laughed to herself, "How can we have a son we we are both so old?"
The Lord said to Abraham, "Why did Sarah laugh? Is anything too hard for the Lord to do? I will return to you next year and Sarah will have a son."
Sarah took a few steps out of the tent. She bit her lip and lowered her head. "Sir, you must be mistaken, I didn't laugh"
The Lord looked at her. "Yes, you did laugh.
Sarah realized then who had spoken to her. A tear dripped out of her eye.
Sometimes we think God can't help our problems. Why bother asking Him for help? No one can help. We pout and stand off by ourselves.
Let's encourage each other today. Tell how God can help someone with their problem. You can use a Bible story, something God did for someone else, or share something God did for you. Click on the comment button below to share your idea.
You start, then I will share a time God helped me.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Waiting is Hard to Do
By Mary Vee
Abram believed God would give him his own son, and from that son a whole nation of people would eventually be born.
Abram believed God would give him his own son, and from that son a whole nation of people would eventually be born.
Sarai believed God as well. They both believed and waited for ten years, then Sarai started to wonder. "Maybe God didn't mean I would be the mother of this son." A tear drip down her face. She continued thinking. "After all, God didn't tell Abram I would be the mother. He only told Abram that he would be the father."
She walked out to an open area outside their tent and smiled at the clouds over the valley below. Living on top of a mountain was nice. God promised her husband, Abram, all the land in front of her eyes. The land would one day belong to his descendants. God didn't say she would be the mother.
She wiped the tear from her face and sighed. I guess someone else should be the mother.
She talked with Abram and explained her thinking. Abram agreed.
Abram took Sarai's servant, Hagar as a second wife.
Once Hagar became pregnant she disliked Sarai. The two began fighting until one day Hagar ran away.
What a mess. No one seemed happy.
Hagar hid in the desert near a spring. God sent an angel to her. He spoke softly and told her to go back to Sarai and continue being her servant. He told her to be nice to Sarai and respect her. He also said she would have a son who would have many descendants.
After nine months, Hagar had a son. Abram named him Ishmael.
Thirteen years later God visited with Abram to tell him some very important news:
Abram's name would be changed to Abraham, which means father of many nations.
Sarai's name would be changed to Sarah which means she would be blessed and given a son, and become the mother of nations.
WOW! That's the news she has been waiting for. God said it. He really said it. SHE would be the mother of the son God promised to Abram, oops his name is Abraham, now.
Sarah thought to herself, "If only I waited longer. If only I waited for the time God had in mind, I wouldn't have had the problem with Hagar. But how could I have known? I was only trying to help."
I think that was the problem, don't you? I try to help God do the things He wants me to do instead of waiting for Him to make things happen at the right time.
Sometimes I try to...well, maybe you could share a time you realized things would have turned out differently if you had waited for God. Or maybe share a time you did wait, and you saw God work.
One time, well, actually several times, I finished someone's sentence when they were talking to me. I said the wrong things and they got angry with me. Sometimes they walk away from me because they were mad. I wished I had waited before I spoke.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Sometimes We Need to Hear God say,"It's OK"
By Mary Vee
One day after Abram returned to his home in Hebron and Lot returned to his home in Sodom, Abram began to wonder about God's promises. How would God make him a father of many people when he didn't have even one son? He was more than 75 years old!
He thought, maybe his head servant would be the one who would inherit all his things. That wouldn't be so bad, he thought, My servant is trustworthy and kind.
That night God spoke to Abram in a dream, "Do not be afraid."
God says that a lot of times in the Bible. He realizes we get afraid when we don't understand things. God still says these Words to us today.
In Abram's dream, God told him "This servant will not be your heir, but your very own son will be your heir."
Then God knew Abram needed to hear and see more to fully understand. God took Abram outside his tent and said, "Look up at the heavens and count the stars."
Abram didn't really count the stars, but he understood what God meant. Still God added a little humor by saying, "If you can count the stars, then you will know how many descendents you will have."
A smile burst on Abram's face. God really would make him a dad, even though he was old. God really would make him a father of many people.
He could wait now. He knew, he really knew that God would do as He promised.
Sometimes problems happen in our life. We try real hard to solve them by ourselves, like Abram did when he thought his servant would be his heir. God knows when we are concerned that things won't work out. This is the time He will send someone to comfort us, or let us hear a story from His Word to comfort us, or put a song in our head, or something to let us know that everything is going to be OK. God is in charge...and everything will be OK. We only need to wait for His timing.
What could you suggest to someone who is going through a problem and needs to hear a word of comfort?
One day after Abram returned to his home in Hebron and Lot returned to his home in Sodom, Abram began to wonder about God's promises. How would God make him a father of many people when he didn't have even one son? He was more than 75 years old!
He thought, maybe his head servant would be the one who would inherit all his things. That wouldn't be so bad, he thought, My servant is trustworthy and kind.
That night God spoke to Abram in a dream, "Do not be afraid."
God says that a lot of times in the Bible. He realizes we get afraid when we don't understand things. God still says these Words to us today.
In Abram's dream, God told him "This servant will not be your heir, but your very own son will be your heir."
Then God knew Abram needed to hear and see more to fully understand. God took Abram outside his tent and said, "Look up at the heavens and count the stars."
Abram didn't really count the stars, but he understood what God meant. Still God added a little humor by saying, "If you can count the stars, then you will know how many descendents you will have."
A smile burst on Abram's face. God really would make him a dad, even though he was old. God really would make him a father of many people.
He could wait now. He knew, he really knew that God would do as He promised.
Sometimes problems happen in our life. We try real hard to solve them by ourselves, like Abram did when he thought his servant would be his heir. God knows when we are concerned that things won't work out. This is the time He will send someone to comfort us, or let us hear a story from His Word to comfort us, or put a song in our head, or something to let us know that everything is going to be OK. God is in charge...and everything will be OK. We only need to wait for His timing.
What could you suggest to someone who is going through a problem and needs to hear a word of comfort?
Saturday, August 1, 2009
God Helps Abram Win a Mighty Battle
By Mary Vee
On Wednesday we talked about the big bad King Elam and his three other king friends who fought the Kings of Sodom and Gomorrah and their three king friends. (Did you keep all those kings straight in your mind?)
The Kings of Sodom and Gomorrah and their friends screamed when they saw King Elams huge army and ran for the hills. Some of the soldiers fell in tar pits. While they were gone, King Elam and his king friends said, "Ha Ha" and stole everything they could from the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah including Abram's nephew, Lot and his family.
One of Lot's servants escaped and ran 36 miles up a mountain to where Abram was living. Huffing because he was out of breath, he told Abram about the battle and how wicked King Elam took Lot and his family as prisoners.
Abram took 318 trained fighting men who had been born in his household to track down and save Lot. They traveled more than 120 miles to a place north of Damascus to conquer King Elam. They won! Abram and his men rescued all the people from Sodom and Gomorrah, including Lot and his family. He brought them back to place near Jerusalem.
The King of Sodom and the King of Gomorrah came and thanked Abram. "Give me the people and keep the goods for yourself."
Abram said, "No thank you." He didn't want the King of Sodom to ever say "Abram was rich because of him."
The King of Salem, which is now called Jerusalem, watched. He was a priest of God Most High. He blessed Abram for his faithfulness saying: "Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And blessed by God Most High, who delvered your enemies into your hand."
Because of Abram's faithfulness to God, he and his men conquered a king that five other kings could not. Can you think of a reward someone received from God for being faithful?
On Wednesday we talked about the big bad King Elam and his three other king friends who fought the Kings of Sodom and Gomorrah and their three king friends. (Did you keep all those kings straight in your mind?)
The Kings of Sodom and Gomorrah and their friends screamed when they saw King Elams huge army and ran for the hills. Some of the soldiers fell in tar pits. While they were gone, King Elam and his king friends said, "Ha Ha" and stole everything they could from the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah including Abram's nephew, Lot and his family.
One of Lot's servants escaped and ran 36 miles up a mountain to where Abram was living. Huffing because he was out of breath, he told Abram about the battle and how wicked King Elam took Lot and his family as prisoners.
Abram took 318 trained fighting men who had been born in his household to track down and save Lot. They traveled more than 120 miles to a place north of Damascus to conquer King Elam. They won! Abram and his men rescued all the people from Sodom and Gomorrah, including Lot and his family. He brought them back to place near Jerusalem.
The King of Sodom and the King of Gomorrah came and thanked Abram. "Give me the people and keep the goods for yourself."
Abram said, "No thank you." He didn't want the King of Sodom to ever say "Abram was rich because of him."
The King of Salem, which is now called Jerusalem, watched. He was a priest of God Most High. He blessed Abram for his faithfulness saying: "Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven and earth. And blessed by God Most High, who delvered your enemies into your hand."
Because of Abram's faithfulness to God, he and his men conquered a king that five other kings could not. Can you think of a reward someone received from God for being faithful?
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Soldiers Killed In Sticky Tar Pits
By Mary Vee
Abram snuggled into his new home in Hebron. He enjoyed his mountaintop view and the open area for his flocks and herds to graze.
Lot moved around for awhile until he snuggled close to the city of Sodom. He didn't really like the wicked things the people did, but his wife and daughters had markets and people, and all the fun parts of a city close by to enjoy.
Sodom, Gomorrah, and three other kindoms had been conquered by the king of Elam. After twelve years of paying the king of Elam money, food, and animals they decided enough was enough. They formed one big army to fight back for their freedom.
The king of Elam laughed and formed an army with three other kings. "Just try and break free, ha ha."
The great battle took place on the south side of the Dead Sea where the land had many tar pits. The tar pits looked like lakes or puddles but actually have sticky asphalt that traps animals, insects, and anything else that falls into them. The animal sinks to the bottom of the pit and dies.
During the battle, the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah called a retreat. Their men ran for their lives, some fell into the tar pits.
The king of Elam wanted to teach them a lesson. He sent his army to Sodom and Gomorrah to steal all their food and goods, even their people to serve as slaves--including Lot and his family.
Check back on Saturday to find out what happened to Lot and his family.
Until then, think of a time when you found yourself in a sticky or difficult situation. Usually we are not sure what to do because everything happens so fast. We are sad, scared, or frustrated. The situation can be something like forgetting to study for a test, or we forgot to do a chore and our parent finds out. Some kids go through situations that are even more difficult. What help can you suggest for a kid going through a difficult or sticky situation?
Abram snuggled into his new home in Hebron. He enjoyed his mountaintop view and the open area for his flocks and herds to graze.
Lot moved around for awhile until he snuggled close to the city of Sodom. He didn't really like the wicked things the people did, but his wife and daughters had markets and people, and all the fun parts of a city close by to enjoy.
Sodom, Gomorrah, and three other kindoms had been conquered by the king of Elam. After twelve years of paying the king of Elam money, food, and animals they decided enough was enough. They formed one big army to fight back for their freedom.
The king of Elam laughed and formed an army with three other kings. "Just try and break free, ha ha."
The great battle took place on the south side of the Dead Sea where the land had many tar pits. The tar pits looked like lakes or puddles but actually have sticky asphalt that traps animals, insects, and anything else that falls into them. The animal sinks to the bottom of the pit and dies.
During the battle, the kings of Sodom and Gomorrah called a retreat. Their men ran for their lives, some fell into the tar pits.
The king of Elam wanted to teach them a lesson. He sent his army to Sodom and Gomorrah to steal all their food and goods, even their people to serve as slaves--including Lot and his family.
Check back on Saturday to find out what happened to Lot and his family.
Until then, think of a time when you found yourself in a sticky or difficult situation. Usually we are not sure what to do because everything happens so fast. We are sad, scared, or frustrated. The situation can be something like forgetting to study for a test, or we forgot to do a chore and our parent finds out. Some kids go through situations that are even more difficult. What help can you suggest for a kid going through a difficult or sticky situation?
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Abraham and Lot
By Mary Vee
Abram's nephew, Lot, became wealthy, like Abrahm. He had flocks, herds, servants, and herdsmen. They finished hiking through the promise land.
Abram's nephew, Lot, became wealthy, like Abrahm. He had flocks, herds, servants, and herdsmen. They finished hiking through the promise land.
After a short visit to Egypt, they returned to a place in about the middle of the land and camped. They pitched their tents near the altar that Abram made for the Lord the first time they traveled through.
Abram woke the next morning, sat down with his breakfast and enjoyed the mountaintop view. Off to the east he saw the Jordan River, green grass, fields, and vineyards. It sure was beautiful.
A servant suddenly approached him and bowed. "The herdsmen are fighting, again."
Abram sighed. "This can't go on any longer. Go get Lot."
Lot sauntered to the campfire and yawned. "What's up, Uncle?"
"My precious nephew, this land cannot provide all we need. Look over to your left and then to to your right. Choose where you would like to live. If you pick the left, I will go to the right. If you pick the right, I will go to the left."
Lot gazed at the rich land in the Jordan River valley. He smiled. "I will take my herdsmen and flocks to the rich valley."
God blessed Abram's desire to bring peace to his growing family. While Lot thought he made the best choice, he also made the greedy choice. Abram proved to be not only an obedient servant of God, but a humble one who would do what was needed to bring peace in his family.
Sometimes family members fight. That doesn't mean they don't love each other. What can you do to help keep peace in your family. Please don't say what really happened in your family, only tell what you could do to bring peace.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
The Ultimate Hiking Trip
By Mary Vee
Abram, Sarai, Lot, their servants, and...well, we don't know how many people left on this ultimate hiking trip altogether. What we do know is that Abram was 75 years old. Thats pretty old for a hike!
The starting point was a huge city called Haran located at the base of a mountain. They hiked southwest through green fields and over mountains for about 400 miles. Their stuff would have been loaded on the camels and donkeys, perhaps somethings were packed in a cart pulled by a donkey. I've gone hiking, but I've never traveled that far! Some say Abram and the group hiked for one year before reaching Shechem to rest for a time.
God continued to guide Abram through a promised land called Canaan, (named after Noah's grandson, Cainan). The group continued hiking south for about 36 miles crossing over mountains until they arrived at Bethel.
In each place God spoke to Abram, reminding him of the promises He made. Abram showed God his faith by building an altar to the Lord and calling on His name.
Abram's tour of the promised land ended when he came to the Negev on the south side of Canaan. This hiking trip covered more than 450 miles. On every inch of land Abram and his family walked, God walked with them and showed them the way. No one suffered injuries, no one became sick to the point they couldn't travel. God took care of them.
Can you comment on a time when God took care of you or someone you know?
Abram, Sarai, Lot, their servants, and...well, we don't know how many people left on this ultimate hiking trip altogether. What we do know is that Abram was 75 years old. Thats pretty old for a hike!
The starting point was a huge city called Haran located at the base of a mountain. They hiked southwest through green fields and over mountains for about 400 miles. Their stuff would have been loaded on the camels and donkeys, perhaps somethings were packed in a cart pulled by a donkey. I've gone hiking, but I've never traveled that far! Some say Abram and the group hiked for one year before reaching Shechem to rest for a time.
God continued to guide Abram through a promised land called Canaan, (named after Noah's grandson, Cainan). The group continued hiking south for about 36 miles crossing over mountains until they arrived at Bethel.
In each place God spoke to Abram, reminding him of the promises He made. Abram showed God his faith by building an altar to the Lord and calling on His name.
Abram's tour of the promised land ended when he came to the Negev on the south side of Canaan. This hiking trip covered more than 450 miles. On every inch of land Abram and his family walked, God walked with them and showed them the way. No one suffered injuries, no one became sick to the point they couldn't travel. God took care of them.
Can you comment on a time when God took care of you or someone you know?
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Robots, Puppets, or People?
By Mary Vee
God made our minds to do awesome things! There have been many times in history when people thought everything that could be invented had been invented. Yet microwaves, space shuttles, iPods, Blogs,and other things have come to be part of our lives.
God gives us these great ideas, but we get to choose whether we use the information or not. God also asks us to do things and lets us choose whether to obey Him or not.
God asked Abram to leave a very nice home in a big city and to go to a new land. God also gave Abram some promises.
He said: Abram, I will start a whole new nation of people with you. Many, many, children will call you Grandpa and great Grandpa, and great, great Grandpa and...
He said: Abram I will make you well known. You will be famous.
He said: Through you, Abram, all the people on earth will be blessed.
Did any of this come true? Well, the country of Israel and the Jewish people all started with Abram, (that's one that came true). Abram (we know him as Abraham, or Father Abraham) is known throughout the world, even today, (that's two that came true). Jesus, the Messiah's earthly parents were decendants of Abram. Because Jesus came and died for our sins, those who believe in Him are blessed (that's three that came true).
So, if God asks me to do something will He give me a promise? Sure! He already did! The Bible is full of promises God is giving to us, and more that God will be giving to us. John 3: 16 says, Whoever believes in Jesus will not perish but have everlasting life. Another promises given by God is: He will never leave us, or forsake us.
God loves us...He didn't make robots or puppets. He made people with minds that could choose to follow Him.
What promise can you think of that God has given us?
God made our minds to do awesome things! There have been many times in history when people thought everything that could be invented had been invented. Yet microwaves, space shuttles, iPods, Blogs,and other things have come to be part of our lives.
God gives us these great ideas, but we get to choose whether we use the information or not. God also asks us to do things and lets us choose whether to obey Him or not.
God asked Abram to leave a very nice home in a big city and to go to a new land. God also gave Abram some promises.
He said: Abram, I will start a whole new nation of people with you. Many, many, children will call you Grandpa and great Grandpa, and great, great Grandpa and...
He said: Abram I will make you well known. You will be famous.
He said: Through you, Abram, all the people on earth will be blessed.
Did any of this come true? Well, the country of Israel and the Jewish people all started with Abram, (that's one that came true). Abram (we know him as Abraham, or Father Abraham) is known throughout the world, even today, (that's two that came true). Jesus, the Messiah's earthly parents were decendants of Abram. Because Jesus came and died for our sins, those who believe in Him are blessed (that's three that came true).
So, if God asks me to do something will He give me a promise? Sure! He already did! The Bible is full of promises God is giving to us, and more that God will be giving to us. John 3: 16 says, Whoever believes in Jesus will not perish but have everlasting life. Another promises given by God is: He will never leave us, or forsake us.
God loves us...He didn't make robots or puppets. He made people with minds that could choose to follow Him.
What promise can you think of that God has given us?
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
God Asks Abraham to Leave His Home
By Mary Vee
Once the people living in the area of Babylon realized they couldn't talk with each other because of the new languages, they moved away and made new homes and cities. Years later Terah moved his son Abram and what was left of his family north to the big city of Heran.
Before long Terah and his family were settled into a new home and making a good living. Abram and Sarai made friends, found their favorite market places to shop, and enjoyed listening to the sheep while watching the sunsets. Sadly, Terah died.
Then one day God spoke to Abram. "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you."
When Sarai heard the news she probably became nervous. Boxes to pack, food to prepare, animals to herd, servants to delegate, so much to do.
Some of their conversation might have been:
"And when does God want us to go?"
Abraham cleared his throat, "Ummmmm, now."
Sarai's jaw probably fell down to the floor. Then she sighed, smiled and probably said, "OK, Dear. Ah, do you have directions for where we're going?"
"Actually, no. But I know God will lead us. Oh, Sarai, we should take my nephew, Lot, with us, too...and don't forget to pack my favorite lamb's wool sweater."
Abram loved the Lord. He understood the importance of God's command to go to a new place, even though he didn't know the exact place or reason why.
Sometimes God asks us to change. Maybe we move to a new home, maybe one of our parents leaves, maybe an older sibling gets married or goes to college, many changes happen in our lives. If we are willing to obey, God will show us and teach us great things.
What could we say to a friend who is sad because things are changing in their life? What would you like someone to say to you?
Once the people living in the area of Babylon realized they couldn't talk with each other because of the new languages, they moved away and made new homes and cities. Years later Terah moved his son Abram and what was left of his family north to the big city of Heran.
Before long Terah and his family were settled into a new home and making a good living. Abram and Sarai made friends, found their favorite market places to shop, and enjoyed listening to the sheep while watching the sunsets. Sadly, Terah died.
Then one day God spoke to Abram. "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you."
When Sarai heard the news she probably became nervous. Boxes to pack, food to prepare, animals to herd, servants to delegate, so much to do.
Some of their conversation might have been:
"And when does God want us to go?"
Abraham cleared his throat, "Ummmmm, now."
Sarai's jaw probably fell down to the floor. Then she sighed, smiled and probably said, "OK, Dear. Ah, do you have directions for where we're going?"
"Actually, no. But I know God will lead us. Oh, Sarai, we should take my nephew, Lot, with us, too...and don't forget to pack my favorite lamb's wool sweater."
Abram loved the Lord. He understood the importance of God's command to go to a new place, even though he didn't know the exact place or reason why.
Sometimes God asks us to change. Maybe we move to a new home, maybe one of our parents leaves, maybe an older sibling gets married or goes to college, many changes happen in our lives. If we are willing to obey, God will show us and teach us great things.
What could we say to a friend who is sad because things are changing in their life? What would you like someone to say to you?
Saturday, July 11, 2009
Reaching for the Stars
By Mary Vee
350 years following the flood Noah died. There were many people on the earth. Quite a large group chose to live in the plain in Shinar which was later called Babylon. Everyone spoke the same language. Wouldn't it be nice to travel to Germany or Italy or some other country and speak the same language as the people who live there?
The people decided it would be a great idea to make a huge city with fancy buildings. Everyone agreed. Then someone suggested, "Let's make a tower that reaches to the heavens."
"Yes!" said another. " That's a great idea. Everyone will know us and we will be famous."
"Yes!" said someone else. "With such a wonderful city there will be plenty of room for our children and their children and no one will ever have to move anywhere else."
The people made bricks and used tar to build their buildings. All they thought about was their city and how wonderful it was looking. They worked long hours everyday to make the tower taller and taller. At the dinner table families told about their day making city buildings. Everyone was excited thinking about the city...and no one thought about God.
God knew they needed help. The people forgot to follow the ways Noah taught his sons.
One day, as the people met at the tower to pull more bricks high up to the top floor, God created many languages and gave them to the people. Micah and Thomas and Matthew, and thousands of others said words like: hand me another brick. Men standing near them shook their heads and said something like: what did you say? No one around understood!
Actually, God was the only one who understood all of the people. He is willing to listen to us and to help.
People today can speak the same language like English or German or something else to each other, and yet not be understood.
Sometimes kids feel others don't understand them. What do you suggest for a kid who feels someone doesn't understand their problem?
350 years following the flood Noah died. There were many people on the earth. Quite a large group chose to live in the plain in Shinar which was later called Babylon. Everyone spoke the same language. Wouldn't it be nice to travel to Germany or Italy or some other country and speak the same language as the people who live there?
The people decided it would be a great idea to make a huge city with fancy buildings. Everyone agreed. Then someone suggested, "Let's make a tower that reaches to the heavens."
"Yes!" said another. " That's a great idea. Everyone will know us and we will be famous."
"Yes!" said someone else. "With such a wonderful city there will be plenty of room for our children and their children and no one will ever have to move anywhere else."
The people made bricks and used tar to build their buildings. All they thought about was their city and how wonderful it was looking. They worked long hours everyday to make the tower taller and taller. At the dinner table families told about their day making city buildings. Everyone was excited thinking about the city...and no one thought about God.
God knew they needed help. The people forgot to follow the ways Noah taught his sons.
One day, as the people met at the tower to pull more bricks high up to the top floor, God created many languages and gave them to the people. Micah and Thomas and Matthew, and thousands of others said words like: hand me another brick. Men standing near them shook their heads and said something like: what did you say? No one around understood!
Actually, God was the only one who understood all of the people. He is willing to listen to us and to help.
People today can speak the same language like English or German or something else to each other, and yet not be understood.
Sometimes kids feel others don't understand them. What do you suggest for a kid who feels someone doesn't understand their problem?
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Noah's Family Smell Fresh Air
By Mary Vee
After 40 days of pelting rain, rockin' and rollin' in an ark, and stuffy, smelly air, Noah and his family were ready to get out of the ark. It continued to rain softer another 110 days. But even after the rain stopped, they had to wait for the rain to soak down into the ground and collect in places like oceans, seas, rivers, and lakes.
Shem, Ham, and Japheth probably said, "Are we there, yet?"
Noah probably answered, "Yes, but there isn't any land for us to step on, yet."
His son's probably answered, "Awwwwww."
Finally, after being in the ark 370 days, God told Noah and his family it was safe to come out. Think of the time it takes for your next birthday to come after the last one. That's about how long they were in the boat!
The family step out of the ark and gazed at the incredible view. Noah took a deep, long breath. Suddenly he noticed..."Phew! We need a bath!"
The animals ran, thumped, scurried, and flew out of the ark squawking, chirping, meowing, roaring, and neighing. They search for a clean, fresh place to stretch their bodies.
God cleaned the air. He also cleaned his people by starting over with only those who loved Him. Noah and his sons searched for materials to build an altar to the Lord. Then they held the first church service honoring God, our creator, after the flood.
When we get in the habit of doing wrong things, our spiritual lives have a bad smell. We need to talk with Jesus and tell Him we are sorry, and really mean it. We need to truly work to stop doing the wrong thing. Then we will feel clean again on the inside.
How do you think Shem, Ham, and Japheth felt when they stepped on the dry ground?
After 40 days of pelting rain, rockin' and rollin' in an ark, and stuffy, smelly air, Noah and his family were ready to get out of the ark. It continued to rain softer another 110 days. But even after the rain stopped, they had to wait for the rain to soak down into the ground and collect in places like oceans, seas, rivers, and lakes.
Shem, Ham, and Japheth probably said, "Are we there, yet?"
Noah probably answered, "Yes, but there isn't any land for us to step on, yet."
His son's probably answered, "Awwwwww."
Finally, after being in the ark 370 days, God told Noah and his family it was safe to come out. Think of the time it takes for your next birthday to come after the last one. That's about how long they were in the boat!
The family step out of the ark and gazed at the incredible view. Noah took a deep, long breath. Suddenly he noticed..."Phew! We need a bath!"
The animals ran, thumped, scurried, and flew out of the ark squawking, chirping, meowing, roaring, and neighing. They search for a clean, fresh place to stretch their bodies.
God cleaned the air. He also cleaned his people by starting over with only those who loved Him. Noah and his sons searched for materials to build an altar to the Lord. Then they held the first church service honoring God, our creator, after the flood.
When we get in the habit of doing wrong things, our spiritual lives have a bad smell. We need to talk with Jesus and tell Him we are sorry, and really mean it. We need to truly work to stop doing the wrong thing. Then we will feel clean again on the inside.
How do you think Shem, Ham, and Japheth felt when they stepped on the dry ground?
Saturday, July 4, 2009
The Most Thrilling Roller Coaster Ride Invented
By Mary Vee
Noah and his family heard the tapping and splushing of rain against the outside of the ark. Thunder grumbled and roared..they'd never heard it before. Lightening suddenly flashed into the one window. Noah screamed and bonked his head on a shelf. The ark began to rise like an elevator. Noah and his son's wives held their woozy stomachs . Powerful waves jarred the ship up and down, left and right, back and forth giving Noah and his family the first and most thrilling roller coaster ride invented.
Almost everyone on board grabbed something to hold on to. Seth planted his feet firmly on the planks and spread his arms out like a surfer. Japheth climbed on top of the rail to the horse's stall, waved his hat, and shouted "Yee Haw!" Ham stacked bundles of hay from the bottom of the hull to the top floor, 5 stories high, to sail down the world's tallest slide, that is, until he was jarred off into the tiger cub pen.
Noah's wife spilled a tray of freshly squeezed lemonade while on her way to serve Noah. Noah sat back and laughed at the circus knowing everyone was safe.
Sometimes strange things happen to us. For those who believe in Jesus, we can sit back like Noah knowing we are safe.
Was there a time you didn't feel safe? What can you suggest for kids to do when strange things happen to them. How would you like someone to help you?
Noah and his family heard the tapping and splushing of rain against the outside of the ark. Thunder grumbled and roared..they'd never heard it before. Lightening suddenly flashed into the one window. Noah screamed and bonked his head on a shelf. The ark began to rise like an elevator. Noah and his son's wives held their woozy stomachs . Powerful waves jarred the ship up and down, left and right, back and forth giving Noah and his family the first and most thrilling roller coaster ride invented.
Almost everyone on board grabbed something to hold on to. Seth planted his feet firmly on the planks and spread his arms out like a surfer. Japheth climbed on top of the rail to the horse's stall, waved his hat, and shouted "Yee Haw!" Ham stacked bundles of hay from the bottom of the hull to the top floor, 5 stories high, to sail down the world's tallest slide, that is, until he was jarred off into the tiger cub pen.
Noah's wife spilled a tray of freshly squeezed lemonade while on her way to serve Noah. Noah sat back and laughed at the circus knowing everyone was safe.
Sometimes strange things happen to us. For those who believe in Jesus, we can sit back like Noah knowing we are safe.
Was there a time you didn't feel safe? What can you suggest for kids to do when strange things happen to them. How would you like someone to help you?
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Time to Go - All Aboard
By Mary Vee
The time finally came for Noah, his wife and sons Shem, Ham, Japheth and their wives to go on their first cruise. Their ship (ark) was big enough to hold two of every kind of animal plus a few extra. Wowsers! God knew Noah's family would need plenty to keep them busy. Staying in the ship without going up on deck to see the sights could get boring.
They got on board and spent the first seven days deciding who would feed the elephants and who would brush the horses. The animals talked like animals do to the Noah and his family. It really helped drown out the noise of the teasing and mean things people outside the boat were saying. Shem laughed when the tiger tail tickled his nose. Ham held his breath when the bear gave him a hug. Japheth taught the mocking bird to say, "Hi Dad, What's for dinner?"
After seven days, the family met for the eveing meal. Noah told them that God would close the door the next day. "This is going to be an exciting trip. You boys need to make up some games we can play with the animals." Noah led his family in prayer, praising God for the new adventure.
Then God closed the door.
If you could play a game with an animal that couldn't live in your house, what would you play?
The time finally came for Noah, his wife and sons Shem, Ham, Japheth and their wives to go on their first cruise. Their ship (ark) was big enough to hold two of every kind of animal plus a few extra. Wowsers! God knew Noah's family would need plenty to keep them busy. Staying in the ship without going up on deck to see the sights could get boring.
They got on board and spent the first seven days deciding who would feed the elephants and who would brush the horses. The animals talked like animals do to the Noah and his family. It really helped drown out the noise of the teasing and mean things people outside the boat were saying. Shem laughed when the tiger tail tickled his nose. Ham held his breath when the bear gave him a hug. Japheth taught the mocking bird to say, "Hi Dad, What's for dinner?"
After seven days, the family met for the eveing meal. Noah told them that God would close the door the next day. "This is going to be an exciting trip. You boys need to make up some games we can play with the animals." Noah led his family in prayer, praising God for the new adventure.
Then God closed the door.
If you could play a game with an animal that couldn't live in your house, what would you play?
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