Proverbs 23

Begin the class with worship and prayer. I like to ask the children if they have anything to thank God for or prayer requests. We then begin with a few review verses from the last lesson, especially those that tie in to the current lesson. Let’s review Proverbs 22:1- A good name with God’s favor is better than being a famous athlete or actor who has a bad reputation. As you go through life seek to be someone who is pleasing to God rather than seeking riches and fame.

Let’s look at some of the previous verses that talk about how wisdom affects the way we speak. Proverbs 16:21: The wise in heart will be called prudent, and sweetness of the lips increases learning. Proverbs 16:23 The heart of the wise teaches his mouth and adds learning to his lips. Proverbs 21:23: Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles. Did you notice that Proverbs speaks about our lips, ears, heart, mouth, and tongue? What we say, listen to, and think reflects how wise or foolish we are. It also exposes what is in our hearts. (For the younger children- lets stand and point to each part of our body as we say it).

In Luke 6:45 Jesus says “A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks. ” Does this apply only to adults? No! Proverbs 20:11: Even a child is known by his deed, whether what he does is pure and right. By the way we speak and act we show whether we are seeking to serve God or ourselves. Have you ever said or done something that you knew was wrong, but it was too late once you spoke? How can I change my heart? I can’t in my own strength, but 1 John 1:10 states “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” The good news is that Jesus paid the debt for our sin and when we confess our sin, it is forgiven through His death on the cross. That is good news!

As a child of God, we need to think how to best spend our time. If I want to become good playing a sport, instrument, or even a video game what do I need to do? Practice! Proverbs 23:12: Apply your heart to instruction and your ears to words of knowledge. This verse reminds us that becoming wise also takes time- we need to read the Bible and listen to words of knowledge- whether a sermon at church or Christian music. There are choices to make with your time- to do that which is pleasing to God. When you take time to pray and seek God you are growing in wisdom and knowledge. What if you are too young to read? Ask a family member to read a children’s Bible storybook to you or listen to the Bible online. This brings joy to God and to your parents as well if they are Christian. Proverbs 23:15-16” My son, if your heart is wise, my heart will rejoice- indeed I myself: yes my inmost being will rejoice when you speak right things.” When a parent sees their child seeking God and being wise, it brings great joy.

Today as we close, if you do not know Jesus as your Saviour, take time today to ask forgiveness for your sins. Talk with Pastor or your parent about becoming a Christian today. If you know Christ as your Saviour, take time to pray how you can apply your heart to instruction, spending time in a way that pleases God. Our craft today will be a reminder during the week to apply your heart to instruction in practical ways.

Craft

• 4″x4″ brown kraft paper box- 1 for each child
• markers, crayons for coloring
• glue sticks
• sandwich bag- 1 per child
• patterns to print

For every child print one each of craft 1 and 2 templates, plus 2 of craft 3. Cut out the shapes before class, along with strips of actions in craft 3 template. Place 2 sets of strips in a sandwich bag and give to each child when the craft is completed. If the children are young, assemble the boxes before class as well.  The children will color in each symbol and glue to the box. Write their name and place the verse on the top of the box.  This craft is a reminder to apply their heart to instruction throughout the week. Each time they read the Bible or do one of the actions on the strip, they take it out of the sandwich bag and place it in the box.  There is a blank strip if they do something special that they would like to add. Encourage them to place the box in a location at home where they will be reminded to gain wisdom and knowledge throughout the week.