READ 

THIS WEEK'S TEXT

CONSIDER

Read this week's text aloud as a family. You might be tempted to skip this step, but it's the most crucial part of your time together.

In this sermon, we explored the importance of being faithful and walking in the fear of God as we bear responsibility for protecting our biblical community. Nehemiah's story is not just about the physical rebuilding of walls but about the spiritual fortification of God's people. We are reminded that it takes more than structures to safeguard the mission; it requires the hearts and hands of those committed to service, prayer, and generosity. The sermon challenges us to consider our roles within the church and our homes, urging us to keep the gates of our lives shut to the enemy's lies and to maintain a critical mass of prayer and giving for the mission to thrive.

What does it mean to be faithful?
Ask the children what they think faithfulness means in their everyday lives. How can they show faithfulness in their actions at home, in school, or in their community?

Why is it important to "fear God"?
This can be a deeper concept, so tailor it for younger kids by explaining that fearing God means having great respect and love for Him, wanting to do what He thinks is right. Discuss examples of what this might look like in their lives.

How can we protect our community like Nehemiah protected his?
Encourage your children to think about their own "community" This could be their family, friends, or school. Ask them to come up with ideas on how they can help keep it safe and happy, such as standing up for each other or helping someone in need.

What are some lies the "enemy" might try to tell us, and how can we shut them out?
This question can lead to a discussion about honesty and integrity. Help them identify common 'lies' they might hear, like "you're not good enough" or "no one will find out," and talk about ways to counter these lies with truth and positive thinking.

Next Steps:
This week, let's each identify one area in our lives where we can be more faithful or walk more closely in the fear of God. It could be in our service to the church, our personal devotion time, or in being more generous with our resources. Let's commit to making a tangible change in that area and share our experiences with each other next time we meet.

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