Elementary // Initiative Week 1
Memory Verse:
“In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.” Matthew 5:16 (NLT)
Definition
Initiative: Taking wise action without being told
Teaching Truth
Follow God’s lead and step up
Questions to Ask Your Child
READ NEHEMIAH 1:1-6,11
Reread verses 5 & 11. How did Nehemiah show that he believed God was trustworthy? (He praised God for being great, for always keeping His promises, and for His unfailing love. He asked God to hear him and to allow the king to say yes to his request.)
Read Nehemiah 2:1-6. How did Nehemiah show initiative? How did he follow God’s lead and step up? (He first prayed and asked God for guidance. Then he told the king about Jerusalem and volunteered to go and lead the Israelites so the wall could be rebuilt.)
When you need to make a choice about what to do, who do you talk to? How can we seek out help from God? (God can show us His truth through prayer, reading His Word, or talking to other, wise believers)
Who in your life is good at showing initiative? What do they do?
Activity
Learn the memory verse as a family (Matthew 5:16 NLT). Write it with wipe off markers on your bathroom mirror. Practice “popcorn style,” where each family member says one word until the entire verse is completed. Write it on an index card and keep it in the car or make up your own hand motions.