Lesson Title: Giving God Our Whole Heart and Review

Lesson Title: Giving God Our Whole Heart

Objective:

Help kids understand why God wants us to be fully committed, not half-hearted, in our faith and actions.

Bible Verse:  

"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." – Deuteronomy 6:5 

Introduction (Engage the Kids):  

Start with a relatable example:  

- Ask, “Have you ever played a game but didn’t try very hard? How did it feel?”  

- Explain that when we do things half-heartedly, we miss out on the joy of giving our best.  

- Tell them: "God wants us to love Him and live for Him with our whole heart—not just sometimes or only when it's easy."

Main Teaching (Illustration & Explanation):  

1. Example #1: A Half-Made Cake  

   - Show a picture of a cake that’s only half-baked or missing ingredients.  

   - Ask, "Would you eat this? Is it a good cake?"  

   - Explain that when we don’t give our best to God, it’s like offering Him an unfinished cake—He wants our full love and effort!  

2. Example #2: A Lukewarm Friendship 

   - Ask: “Would you want a friend who only talks to you when they need something?” 

   - Explain that God desires a real, strong relationship with us, not just occasional prayers or moments of faith.  

Activity (Hands-On Learning): 

- Heart Puzzle Game:

   - Cut out a paper heart and divide it into pieces.  

   - Each piece represents something in life (school, sports, video games, family).  

   - Ask: "Where does God fit?"

   - Teach that God deserves our whole heart, not just a little part of it.  

Conclusion & Challenge: 

- Encourage kids to think of one way they can be more wholehearted—prayer, kindness, worship.  

- End with a prayer, asking God to help them live fully for Him.  

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Here's a short story illustrating how a halfhearted team player can affect the whole team:  

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The Unfinished Pass 

Jake was the fastest player on the soccer team. He had skill, speed, and natural talent, but there was one problem—he only put in effort when he felt like it. During practice, he jogged lazily instead of sprinting. During games, he held back, barely passing and never chasing the ball if he lost it. His teammates noticed.  

One day, the championship game arrived. The team was determined to win, but Jake stayed in his usual halfhearted mode. When their best player passed him the ball for the game-winning shot, Jake hesitated, barely kicking it toward the goal. The other team seized the ball, charged down the field, and scored. The crowd fell silent. The chance to win slipped away, and Jake knew his lack of effort had let the team down.  

After the game, the coach pulled Jake aside. “Talent isn’t enough,” he said. “When you don’t give your all, the whole team suffers. A strong team depends on every player giving their best.”  

Jake realized that his halfhearted attitude hadn’t just affected him—it had affected everyone. From that day forward, he played with full effort, understanding that true victory comes not just from skill, but from heart and commitment.  

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This story could help kids understand why God wants us to be fully committed—whether in sports, friendships, or our faith. 

Every Piece Matters

Ella loved art but didn’t always feel confident in group projects. When her teacher announced that the class would create a big mural for the school hallway, she hesitated. Everyone had a role—some students painted backgrounds, others added details, and Emma was assigned to work on the final touches.

At first, she thought, It’s just decorations. It’s not that important. She worked slowly, leaving some areas unfinished. But on the day they revealed the mural, the class noticed something was missing. The empty spaces stood out, making the artwork feel incomplete. Ella realized her part—though small—was essential.

Determined to fix it, she spent extra time carefully finishing her details. When the mural was complete, the teacher smiled and said, "Every piece matters. Without your work, the mural wasn’t whole."

Ella learned that doing her best, even in the smallest tasks, made a difference. Whether in art, teamwork, or life, her effort was valuable.

### **Lesson Objective Summary**  

This lesson teaches the importance of wholehearted devotion to God, emphasizing that He desires our full commitment, not half-hearted faith. It explains how being fully connected to Him brings peace, joy, and fulfillment, allowing us to reflect His love and live with purpose. Through relatable examples—like teamwork, artistic contributions, and the Fruit of the Spirit—it encourages children to give their best in faith, relationships, and responsibilities. The lesson also highlights how drawing closer to God fills our lives with His blessings, strengthens our spiritual walk, and provides rest from worries.

Interesting Thoughts

---Worry is like carrying a heavy backpack full of things you don’t need. The longer you hold onto it, the more exhausted you become, even though much of what’s inside isn’t worth the burden. It weighs you down, slows your steps, and distracts you from the beauty of what’s ahead. But when you trust God and hand those worries over to Him, it’s like dropping that backpack—you suddenly feel lighter, freer, and able to move forward with peace.  

It’s also like a rocking chair—it keeps you moving, but it never actually gets you anywhere. Worry can make you feel busy with thoughts and concerns, but it doesn’t lead to solutions or change. Instead, trusting in God’s plan brings calm and clarity. 

 ---Peace is like a calm river—steady, flowing, and undisturbed by the chaos around it. Even when storms rage in the distance, the depths remain still, anchored in something greater than the surface winds. True peace is found when we trust that God is in control, allowing us to move forward without fear, even when life feels uncertain.

It’s also like a warm shelter during a storm. No matter how strong the winds blow outside, inside, there’s safety, comfort, and rest. The storms of life may rage, but when we remain close to God, His peace surrounds us, shielding us from the weight of worry and fear. 

---Halfhearted is like trying to light a candle with a weak flame—it flickers, but never truly shines. It doesn’t give off warmth or light the way it’s meant to because it lacks full commitment. Just like a dim flame doesn’t brighten a room, a halfhearted effort in anything—faith, friendships, or work—never reaches its full potential.  

It’s also like a boat with only one oar. Instead of moving forward smoothly, it circles aimlessly, never making real progress. When we approach life, our goals, or our relationship with God with only half our heart, we struggle to move forward, missing the strength and direction that wholehearted effort brings.  

---God loving us is like the sun shining every day—whether we see it or not, it's always there, warming, guiding, and giving life. His love is constant, never fading or failing, and it reaches us no matter where we are or what we've done. Just as the sun never stops shining, even behind the clouds, God's love remains with us even in our darkest moments.  

It’s also like the arms of a loving parent—always open, ready to embrace, comfort, and protect. No matter how far we wander or how many mistakes we make, His love welcomes us back, offering grace and forgiveness without hesitation. His love is **unconditional**, never based on how perfect we are but simply on **who we are—His children**.  

---A stubborn heart is like a locked door—it refuses to open, even when help or wisdom is knocking. No matter how much guidance is offered, it stays closed, unwilling to let in change or growth. Just as a locked door can keep people from entering a home, a stubborn heart can prevent us from receiving the love, truth, and direction that God wants to give us.  

It’s also like a tree with deep roots in rocky soil. Instead of growing strong and flourishing, it struggles, unable to absorb the nourishment it needs. A heart that refuses to listen or soften can miss out on the blessings and wisdom that come with humility and trust in God. However, when we allow Him to work in us, He can transform even the most stubborn heart into something full of life and purpose.  

Here are some Bible verses that relate to a stubborn heart and its consequences:

Jeremiah 7:24 (KJV 1611)– "But they hearkened not, nor inclined their ear, but walked in the counsels and in the imagination of their evil heart, and went backward, and not forward." 

- Proverbs 28:14 (KJV 1611)"Happy is the man that feareth alway: but he that hardeneth his heart shall fall into mischief."  

- Zechariah 7:11-12 (KJV 1611) – "But they refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped their ears, that they should not hear. Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law." 

- Isaiah 48:4 (KJV 1611)"Because I knew that thou art obstinate, and thy neck is an iron sinew, and thy brow brass."  

- Acts 7:51 (KJV 1611)"Ye stiffnecked and uncircumcised in heart and ears, ye do always resist the Holy Ghost: as your fathers did, so do ye."

These verses emphasize how stubbornness can lead to spiritual resistance, preventing people from hearing and following God's guidance. A hardened heart can cause someone to reject wisdom, ignore correction, and move away from God's blessings. However, when we humble ourselves and listen, God can soften our hearts and lead us toward growth, peace, and purpose.

Review Questions (20 Questions

1. What does it mean to be half-hearted in our faith?  

2. Why does God want us to be fully committed to Him?  

3. How does wholehearted living help us grow in our faith?  

4. What happens when we give only part of our heart to God?  

5. What Bible verse teaches us to love God with all our heart, soul, and strength?  

Application in Daily Life:  

6. How can we show that we are giving our full heart to God?  

7. What are some everyday examples of being half-hearted in tasks?  

8. What is one way you can improve your commitment to your faith?  

9. How does wholehearted effort in friendships make them stronger?  

10. What does the story about the halfhearted team player teach us?  

God’s Blessings and the Fruit of the Spirit:  

11. What are some blessings that come from being closer to God?  

12. Where in the Bible do we find the Fruit of the Spirit?  

13. How does God’s Spirit help us develop love, kindness, and patience?  

14. What is the connection between God’s heart and our heart?  

15. How does binding our hearts to God help us find rest?  

Reflection & Practical Steps:  

16. How can prayer help us be more wholehearted?  

17. What happens when we try to do things without relying on God?  

18. How does trusting God remove fear and worry?  

19. What does the story about the girl working on the school project teach us?  

20. What is one takeaway from this lesson that you can apply in your life?  

---Conclusion of the Lesson

Throughout this lesson, we've explored the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. We’ve seen how half-heartedness can hold us back, how God's love transforms us, and how being fully committed to Him leads to joy, peace, and purpose. The stories and examples have shown that when we give our whole heart to God, He fills our lives with strength, blessings, and guidance.

God doesn’t want just part of us—He wants our full trust, love, and surrender. A life lived in true faith is a life secure in Him, free from the weight of worry, and filled with His presence. When we align our hearts with God, we find rest, reflect His love, and live according to His perfect plan

Conclusion of the Lesson**  

Throughout this lesson, we've explored the importance of wholehearted devotion to God. We’ve seen how half-heartedness can hold us back, how God's love transforms us, and how being fully committed to Him leads to joy, peace, and purpose. The stories and examples have shown that when we give our whole heart to God, He fills our lives with strength, blessings, and guidance.  

God doesn’t want just part of us—He wants our full trust, love, and surrender. A life lived in true faith is a life secure in Him, free from the weight of worry, and filled with His presence. When we align our hearts with God, we find rest, reflect His love, and live according to His perfect plan.  

\Invitation to Salvation  

If you have never fully given your heart to Jesus Christ, today is the perfect time to make that choice. God’s love for us is unconditional, and He longs to have a personal relationship with each of us. No matter our past, struggles, or fears, Jesus invites us to come to Him, just as we are.  

Romans 10:9 (KJV 1611) says: "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."

Salvation is a gift from God, freely given through Jesus Christ's sacrifice on the cross. He died for our sins, rose again, and now offers us eternal life with Him. All we have to do is believe, repent, and accept Him into our hearts.  

If you feel led, you can pray this simple prayer:  

**Dear Lord, I know that I am a sinner and I need Your forgiveness. I believe that Jesus Christ died for my sins and rose again so that I may have eternal life. I choose today to give You my whole heart. Please come into my life, guide me, and help me to live for You. In Jesus’ name, Amen. 

If you’ve prayed this prayer and truly meant it, you are now saved! You have become a child of God, and His love will carry you forward. Surround yourself with fellow believers, read His Word, and continue growing in faith.  

Our Father in Heaven,  

If there is anyone here who has not yet given their heart to You, I pray that You stir within them a longing to know You fully. You are a loving and merciful God, always ready to receive those who come to You. May Your presence touch every heart, drawing them closer to Your truth, grace, and salvation.  

Lord, thank You for the gift of Your unconditional love. We acknowledge that without You, we are incomplete, wandering, and weighed down by life’s burdens. But with You, we find peace, purpose, and the strength to live wholeheartedly in faith. May we not be halfhearted in our devotion, but instead surrender our whole selves to You, trusting that Your plans are always for our good.  

Help us, Lord, to reflect Your love, joy, and kindness in all that we do. Let the Fruit of Your Spirit grow within us, shaping our thoughts, words, and actions so that we may honor You in every aspect of our lives. May we be lights in this world, showing others the beauty of a life fully committed to You.  

For those seeking salvation, Lord, may they open their hearts and receive You as their Savior. May they feel the assurance of Your forgiveness, the warmth of Your embrace, and the promise of eternal life. Let today be the day they take their first step in faith, knowing that Your love never fails and Your grace is more than enough.  

We thank You for the blessings You pour into our lives and for the peace You give us when we rest in You. May we walk forward with confidence, fully trusting in You, and living in the joy of Your presence.  

In Jesus’ name,we pray.  

Amen. 

"Sealed Heart Craft" – A Visual Reminder of God's Promise  

Materials Needed:  

✔️ Red and white construction paper  

✔️ Scissors  

✔️ Glue or double-sided tape  

✔️ Markers or pens  

✔️ Stickers or small decorative stamps (optional)  

✔️ A small envelope or self-sticking seal  

Steps:  

1️⃣ . Cut out a large heart from red construction paper. This represents our heart—the part of us that we give to Jesus.  

2️⃣ Write a Bible verse inside the heart that reminds us of God’s promise to seal us until redemption (e.g., Ephesians 4:30).  

3️⃣ Cut a smaller heart from white paper and glue it inside the red heart. This symbolizes that Christ’s love lives within us when we trust Him as our Savior.  

4️⃣ Fold the red heart in half or place it inside a small envelope, sealing it with tape, glue, or a sticker. This represents how God seals our hearts with His Spirit when we are saved—we are secure and protected in Him

5️⃣ Decorate the outside with stickers, glitter, or messages like "God’s Love Seals My Heart!"  

Discussion After Craft:  

➡️ Ask: _"What does it mean to be sealed by God?"_  

➡️ Explain: _"Just as this heart is sealed shut, our salvation is securely sealed by God’s promise. Nothing can remove His love from us!"_  

➡️ Pray together: _Thanking God for His love and the assurance we have in Him._  

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Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

This Is a Full Lesson With 6 Points That Goes with The Heart Pillow Craft

Heart Pillow - Finding Peace Craft

Whole heart Review - Stories and Examples

 

point 1: God Doesn't want us to be half hearted.

When we talk about being wholehearted, it means giving our full effort, love, and devotion—whether to God, to others, or even to the things we do in life. Half-heartedness can lead to missed opportunities and a weaker connection to our faith and purpose.

A good way to illustrate this for kids is through everyday examples. Imagine playing a game but not really trying to win, or working on a school project without caring about the outcome—it wouldn’t feel very fulfilling, would it? God wants us to live with passion and commitment, not just do things halfway.

When someone is half-hearted in their faith or actions, it means they are not fully committed—they may say they believe or care about something, but their choices and dedication don't reflect it. Imagine trying to run a race but only jogging slowly, or playing a game without really trying to win. In the same way, if we approach our relationship with God half-heartedly, we miss the full joy and strength that comes from truly knowing Him. God desires a deep, meaningful relationship with us, one where we give Him our whole heart, not just bits and pieces when it’s convenient.

Being half-hearted can also make life feel unfulfilled. When we are only partly committed to something important—whether it’s faith, friendships, or responsibilities—we miss out on the rewards of true dedication. Jesus teaches that we should love God with all our heart, soul, and strength because a full-hearted faith leads to a life of purpose, peace, and joy. When we give our best to God and others, we experience the richness of life the way He intended. Half-heartedness keeps us from the blessings of complete trust and devotion, but wholehearted living opens the door to something greater.

Point 2: Why God wants our whole heart.

God desires our whole heart because He created us for a deep, loving relationship with Him. Just as a parent wants their child’s full love and trust, God longs for us to be fully committed to Him, not just turning to Him in moments of need or convenience. When we give Him our whole heart, we are opening ourselves to the peace, joy, and purpose He has planned for us. Half-hearted devotion can lead to distance in our faith, making it harder to experience the fullness of His love and guidance. God knows that when we fully trust and love Him, our lives become more meaningful and fulfilling.

Additionally, God wants our whole heart because He is faithful and deserves our complete devotion. He has given us everything—life, salvation, and endless grace. Holding back parts of our heart means we are not fully receiving the blessings He wants to give us. When we surrender completely to Him, we experience the strength and wisdom that come from walking closely with Him. A wholehearted commitment allows us to grow in faith, love others deeply, and live according to His purpose. God’s desire for our whole heart is not about rules—it’s about leading us into a life filled with His goodness.

Point 3: Our Heart and God's Heart Together Completes us

When we fully commit our hearts to God, something beautiful happens—we become complete. On our own, life can feel uncertain, empty, or lacking direction, but when we align our hearts with God’s, we find peace, purpose, and fulfillment. God’s heart is full of love, wisdom, and grace, and when we open our hearts to Him, we receive those blessings in abundance. Just as a puzzle is incomplete without every piece, our lives are missing something essential without a deep connection to God. When our heart and His heart come together, we experience the strength and joy that come from His presence in our lives.

This connection isn’t just about feeling close to God—it transforms us from the inside out. As we grow in faith and embrace God’s love, our hearts reflect His kindness, patience, and compassion. We begin to love others as He loves us, serve with joy, and trust Him in every circumstance. The more we allow our heart to unite with His, the more we become the person He created us to be. Living in harmony with God’s heart means stepping into a life of true fulfillment—a life where we are never alone and always surrounded by His unfailing love.

Point 4: The closer we are to God The more we are filled with his blessings, like love joy peace, gentleness, kindness, all the fruit of the Spirit

When we draw near to God, we open ourselves to His abundant blessings—love, joy, peace, gentleness, and kindness. These aren’t just emotions; they are reflections of God’s presence in our lives. As we build a deeper relationship with Him through prayer, faith, and obedience, His goodness flows into our hearts, shaping how we think, feel, and treat others. The more time we spend with God, the more His spirit transforms us, allowing us to reflect His character in everything we do. His blessings are not temporary feelings but lasting gifts that help us live with purpose, strength, and hope.

This closeness to God also brings a sense of peace that surpasses all understanding. In a world filled with uncertainty and challenges, knowing that we are deeply connected to God gives us confidence and reassurance. When we rely on Him, He fills us with joy even in difficult times and grants us the patience and kindness to love others well. His presence removes fear and replaces it with gentleness, allowing us to live in harmony with Him and those around us. The more we lean into God’s heart, the more complete and fulfilled we become, walking in the blessings He freely offers to those who seek Him.

 The blessings of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are all part of the **Fruit of the Spirit** found in **Galatians 5:22-23**. These qualities are not just feelings but evidence of God working in us, shaping us to be more like Him. When we live closely with God, His Spirit grows these fruits within us, influencing how we love others, respond to challenges, and walk in faith.

The more we seek God, the more His Spirit fills us, making these qualities a natural part of our lives. Instead of forcing kindness or struggling for patience, His presence helps us reflect His love effortlessly. It’s not about perfection, but about allowing God to transform our hearts over time. The Fruit of the Spirit is proof that God is alive within us, guiding us to live a life filled with His goodness. 

Point 5: We can find rest from our worries when we are bound heart to heart.

When we are bound heart to heart with God, we find true rest from our worries and burdens. Life can often feel overwhelming, filled with challenges, uncertainties, and fears, but God invites us to come close to Him and experience His peace. In **Matthew 11:28**, Jesus says, *"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."* This rest is not just about physical relaxation but a deep spiritual comfort, knowing that we are never alone in our struggles. When our heart is connected to His, we can trust Him to carry our worries and lead us with wisdom and love.

Resting in God’s presence allows us to let go of anxiety and replace it with faith. When we surrender our fears to Him, He fills our hearts with the assurance that He is in control, no matter what challenges we face. His peace is greater than any stress, and His love reassures us that we are safe in His hands. Just like a child finds comfort in the presence of a loving parent, we can find security and calm when we stay close to God. By binding our hearts to His, we experience a life free from unnecessary worry—a life anchored in His perfect peace.

“And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.”

Point 6: Sealed Until the Day of Redemption 

Once we trust Christ as our Savior our hearts are sealed by the Holy Spirit. This means that our salvation is secure, and nothing can separate us from God’s love. Just as a seal marks ownership and protection, God’s seal on our hearts guarantees that we belong to Him forever.  

When we give our hearts to Christ, He keeps us, strengthens us, and prepares us for the day of redemption—the moment when we will be fully united with Him in eternity. This truth brings peace and assurance, knowing that our salvation is not based on our own efforts but on God’s unchanging promise.

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Bible Verses (KJV 1611) That Support This Teaching  

- Ephesians 4:30"And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption." 

- 2 Corinthians 1:22 "Who hath also sealed us, and given the earnest of the Spirit in our hearts."*  

- Ephesians 1:13-14 "In whom ye also trusted, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation: in whom also after that ye believed, ye were sealed with that holy Spirit of promise, Which is the earnest of our inheritance until the redemption of the purchased possession, unto the praise of his glory."*  

- **John 10:28-29** – *"And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand."*  

- **Romans 8:38-39** – *"For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord."*  

---Many KJV1611 study verses that match this lesson.

Here are some **KJV 1611** study verses that align with your lesson on wholehearted devotion to God:

- **Deuteronomy 6:5** – *"And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might."*  

- **Psalm 86:12** – *"I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore."*  

- **Jeremiah 29:13** – *"And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart."*  

- **Matthew 22:37** – *"Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind."*  

- **Proverbs 3:5-6** – *"Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths."*  

- **Colossians 3:23** – *"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men."*  

- **1 Chronicles 28:9** – *"And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind."*  

These verses emphasize the importance of **wholehearted devotion**, seeking God fully, and trusting Him completely. They beautifully support the themes of your lesson—giving God our whole heart, finding rest in Him, and receiving His blessings.

Heart Pillow Craft

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Our Heavenly Father  

We come before You with grateful hearts, knowing that You wholeheartedly love us and desire for each person to know Jesus Christ as Savior. 

Lord, if anyone here that does not know Christ, I pray that you speak to their heart today. draw them to you and reveal your truth to them.

May they see their need for salvation. Help them to understand and to trust in the precious blood of Jesus by surrender their life to you. Let them experience the fullness of your grace, mercy, and love, by trusting Christ as their personal Savior.  

Thank You, Father, for your unfailing love and the gift of salvation.  

In Jesus’ holy name we pray,  

Amen.  

---

Susan Nikitenko Lesson 2025©

 

.  The Word of God declares:  

For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" — Romans 3:23  

We cannot cleanse ourselves, nor can we earn salvation through good works. It is only through the precious blood of Jesus Christ that we are redeemed.  

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." — John 3:16  

To receive this gift of eternal life, we must follow the ABCs of Salvation:  

A – Admit** that you are a sinner.  

Sin separates us from God, and we must acknowledge our need for a Savior.  

"For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;" — Romans 3:23  

B – Believe that Jesus Christ died for your sins and rose again.  

Salvation is found in Christ alone**, through His sacrifice on the cross.  

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:8  

C – Confess Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.  

Salvation is a personal decision—one that requires faith and trust in Him.  

"That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved." — Romans 10:9  

If you have not yet placed your trust in Jesus Christ today is the day of salvation. Surrender your heart to Him, knowing that only through Him can you truly live a life devoted to God.  

The invitation is open,the Savior is calling—will you trust Him today?  

Anchor Baptist Church©2025

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Halfheartedly Vrs Wholeheartedly

Halfhearted or Wholehearted Game

Be creative and use these questions as part of a question-answer relay or card game.   

20 examples of behaviors kids might show, illustrating wholeheartedness or halfheartedness. You can read these aloud and ask, *"Wholeheartedness? or Halfheartedness?"* to encourage kids to reflect on their actions. I’ve also included a verse from the KJV 1611 Bible to guide the discussion:

 (Colossians 3:23). *"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;"*

1. Helping a friend clean up after an activity without being asked—Wholeheartedness?

2. Saying "thank you" when reminded, but not meaning it—Halfheartedness?

3. Offering to share a toy with a classmate who looks sad—Wholeheartedness?

4. Complaining about chores while doing them—Halfheartedness?

5. Praying sincerely for a sibling who's sick—Wholeheartedness?

6. Mumbling prayers quickly to finish faster—Halfheartedness?

7. Making a handmade card to cheer up a neighbor—Wholeheartedness?

8. Saying kind words to someone while secretly feeling jealous—Halfheartedness?

9. Listening attentively to a Sunday school teacher—Wholeheartedness?

10. Daydreaming during a Bible story—Halfheartedness?

11. Volunteering to set the table without being told—Wholeheartedness?

12. Only helping with homework when rewarded—Halfheartedness?

13. Singing worship songs with joy and enthusiasm—Wholeheartedness?

14. Pretending to sing in worship but thinking about something else—Halfheartedness?

15. Inviting a new student to join a game at recess—Wholeheartedness?

16. Refusing to play with others unless it’s your favorite game—Halfheartedness?

17. Forgiving a friend who hurt your feelings—Wholeheartedness?

18. Telling on a classmate just to get them in trouble—Halfheartedness?

19. Cleaning up spilled milk, even when it's not yours—Wholeheartedness?

20. Only apologizing when pressured to do so—Halfheartedness?

 

These examples help children discern how their attitudes and behaviors align with serving and loving God “heartily.”

Chores:  Half Heartedly Wholeheartedly

a list of 20 examples related to doing chores that can help kids reflect on whether they're showing wholeheartedness or halfheartedness. You can read these aloud and ask, *"Wholeheartedness? or Halfheartedness?"* I've also included a verse to guide the conversation: *"And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;"* (Colossians 3:23, KJV 1611).

:

1. Sweeping the floor thoroughly to make it spotless—Wholeheartedness? 

2. Leaving crumbs on the table after being asked to clean up—Halfheartedness? 

3. Folding laundry carefully and organizing it neatly—Wholeheartedness? 

4. Stuffing clothes in a drawer without folding them—Halfheartedness? 

5. Taking out the trash without needing a reminder—Wholeheartedness? 

6. Complaining loudly about being asked to take out the trash—Halfheartedness? 

7. Cleaning the dishes and wiping the counters afterward—Wholeheartedness? 

8. Washing the dishes but leaving some food stuck on them—Halfheartedness? 

9. Helping a sibling tidy up their room without being asked—Wholeheartedness? 

10. Tidying up your own space but leaving a mess elsewhere—Halfheartedness? 

11. Cheerfully singing or humming while doing chores—Wholeheartedness? 

12. Dragging your feet and grumbling while dusting—Halfheartedness? 

13. Remembering to water the plants daily—Wholeheartedness? 

14. Forgetting to water the plants despite being told—Halfheartedness? 

15. Picking up toys promptly after playtime—Wholeheartedness? 

16. Putting toys away in the wrong places to finish faster—Halfheartedness? 

17. Helping clean up after dinner without being asked—Wholeheartedness? 

18. Pretending not to notice when extra help is needed—Halfheartedness? 

19. Volunteering to clean something that isn’t your mess—Wholeheartedness? 

20. Doing only the bare minimum just to say “I’m done!”—Halfheartedness? 

 

These examples encourage kids to reflect on their actions and attitudes when doing chores, fostering a deeper understanding of how to serve "as unto the Lord." Let me know if you’d like me to expand on this or tailor it for different age groups! 😊

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

God's Son, Light Of Our Salvation 5 items and Audio

 John 8:12 

Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: 

he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, 

but shall have the light of life.

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Bear Coloring Page: The Eyes Of The Lord are In Everyplace

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Have a Clean Heart

Matthew 6:1

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

The Seeds of Influence

                                  

 The Seeds of Influence

 

Spring is here, and there is so much to do.  I look out my window and think, look at all the work I have to do!

In the Spring a lot of things that look like they are dead and gone, start growing.  We see the fruit from seeds that grow from last year.  We are not talking about oranges and grapes but about tulips, peonies, and multiple other perennials. This is something that happens normally in the spring. As we see the garden grow, we are seeing more and more of what it’s producing. 

Everything we do or don’t do in life is like planting seeds.  When we are dead and gone the seeds planted by our lives will continue to grow. 

My dad died when my youngest child was a baby.  My dad was a dedicated provider for his family.  He worked three jobs to provide for our family when I was a toddler.  He liked to rebuild engines and he had a lot of friends. My dad liked to listen to me sing. I loved both my mom and my dad. My dad died suddenly from a massive heart attack. He died at 57 yrs old while chopping wood. He was always working up to the day he died.  

My mother and my stepfather died about a year ago. I miss them both and think about them every day,

My mother was an excellent cook and consistently had meals on the table.  She was a good housekeeper and could do any craft.  She was a very gifted manager and a hard worker.  I looked up to her for all her good qualities.  My mother always used endearing words, like, Sweetheart, Honey, and Baby.  

 

 My stepfather was a very hard worker and consistently took care of their property.  He took his mother with him to his work and she ran her little crafting/ flee market business up until she was in her 90s.  They died at the same time.  Their funerals were at the same time. They both worked up until the day they died. 

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Just recently, three people died that impacted my life. My Son In-laws mother died.  She was only 9 years older than me. She was the other grandmother to my grandchildren. She was a sweet Christian, a beautiful person.  She has been an influence on my grandchildren and my daughter.  She has planted some good seeds and those seeds will continue to grow in our hearts and the hearts of so many. 

This past week two other great people died, Patch the Pirate and also Charles Stanley, both these men, through their ministries, impacted my life and also my family’s life.  As a young mother, I started listening to Charles Stanley and also Patch the Pirate.  I often sang Patch the Pirate songs as I reminded my children to be good and to have a better attitude.  I didn’t really have a stable home life in my youth, my mother left us. My dad had his own life. I quit school after my mother left and no one was there to encourage me otherwise.  Eventually, I did take the GED test.  When I was a teenager, I sought God even though I didn’t always make good decisions. I attended church and Sunday School consistently. The people of my church picked me up every Wednesday and Sunday for all services.  

I made a profession of faith at seven years old and was baptized with my mother.  I made sure of my salvation and I was re-baptized just after turning 15 years old. I was saved in an Independent F Baptist Church. I met my husband and married at 23 years old.  We've been married for 36 years.  

I did not know how to raise children and looked for that counsel through Charles Stanley’s Radio Ministry.  Patch the Pirate and also Focus on The Family’s Odyssey Audio Ministry was the biggest influence in raising our children in a way that would please God. I asked God to help me each day and I still ask God to help me each day.  He helped me through good people and their influence.  

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You will always be an influence in our lives.  We miss you more each day and appreciate you more and more.  Your influence will be the flowers that grow in our hearts and lives and the strength that helps us to stand.  Love you Forever.

God uses our influence when we think our influence is done. 

Susan Y Nikitenko

April 24, 2023 ©

 

2 Corinthians 9:6 

But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly, and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.

Coloring Page

Heart and Flowers Hand Drawn Susan Nikitenko 2023

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Somebody Loves Me

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Bulletin Board Jelly Bean Hearts Borders

Put together strips by cutting an edge and gluing with a glue stick.

Staple them on.

I used flannel on this board.

If you put sandpaper onto the back of the pictures

you're using to teach with.

they will stick to flannel. 

 

The God of Our Salvation - Lesson

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Be Strong In The Lord Ephesians 6:10

 

Eph 6:10  Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

Will You Love God?

 this was taught with our lesson yesterday.

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.

Trust In The Lord - God is The Rock

 Deuteronomy  32:4

 He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he.

God Gives Us Strength.

This is going with the bible story of how God provides water from the rock.

God told Moses to strike the rock with his rod.

God proves his love through provision.

They would have died without water. We need water to live.

We would have died in our sins without Jesus.

He is our salvation. His love is strong and never fails us.

God helps us love each other the way he loves us.

God gives us the strength to do what He wants us to do.

We can do nothing within ourselves that is righteously worthy.

Christ enables us as God enabled Moses.

We are learning the hymn.... The Old Rugged Cross.

Below:

I'm going to read the writing I wrote yesterday - God Proved His Love.

or if you'd rather sing it....

God Gave Us Mercy

We are painting rocks today in class and talking about how God has a rock-solid

love for us and how he supplies our needs.

You'll Need

Smooth hand-sized stones,

fabric markers, and heart stickers.

You'll need helpers if you have several kids.

We are starting this lesson out with several stories. The few two are to be quickly reviewed.

You'll need visuals for these stories. The visuals you will need are "One Example of the plagues on Egypt." "The blood being applied to the doorpost," "Moses holding his rod up at the opening of the red sea,'' and "Moses striking the rock.

1.

https://www.freebibleimages.org/

Blood On The Doorposts

Moses Parts The Red Sea - Isreal Crosses On Dry Ground

All Egypt Army and Pharaoh Die In The Red Sea.

In The Wilderness

Moses Struck The Rock

https://www.freebibleimages.org/

Arrange your visuals up on cardboard or the wall in the order they happen in the bible.

That way you can refer to your pictures without holding them.

God told Moses to go to Egypt and to tell Pharoah to let his people, go.

Act out as you teach, Tell Moses to take off his shoes, he's on holy ground

In each of the stories of the old testament it always comes back to the same thing. God provides to those who ask and to those that trust him.

Follow directly below: If you want to know how to be saved...... an invitation.

Will You Love Him?

https://starpoempickjuly.blogspot.com/2022/02/will-you-love-him.html

The God of our Salvation

Today we are going to talk about these stories from the Bible Stories of Moses.

Moses at the burning bush,  Moses and the plagues, blood on the doorposts and being delivered from death,   The crossing of the Red Sea, the death of Pharoah and his army and  God supplies water from the rock once again saving the lives of the Jews.  The plagues God sent upon Egypt.   A reminder of the stubbornness of Pharoah and that God is much bigger than us or our enemies.

While we talk about these things remember to express yourself in an acting role.  Act things out while you teach, as though it is happening.  

Refer to your picture as you review 

Moses has found a burning bush. Shockingly God talks to Moses through the burning bush.  God told him to take off his shoes because He was standing on holy ground.   God told Moses to go back to Egypt and tell Pharoah to let his people go.  God's people were in slavery and were treated very poorly.  They were hit, killed, hurt, on a daily basis.  Some worked so hard in the hot sun that they died while being hit with a whip.  Their cries rose up to heaven and God heard them and knew all about the harshness they had to endure or they would die.  

God gave Moses someone to speak for him.  Aaron was Moses' helper.  He did the majority of the speaking for Moses.  Moses and Aaron obeyed the Lord.  they went before Pharoah several times.

Each time stubborn Pharoah said no.  God responded to his rebellion and through Moses did many wondrous things.  We can quickly read through this chart.  (The Ten Plagues)  Each time Moses went to Pharoah, Phoaah said no, to letting, God's people go. Pharaoh said no and God sent a plague, Pharaoh said no and God sent a plague, and on and on. 

(Refer to the pictures)

The last time Pharoah said, no God sent a final plague.  God would send a death angel, for the firstborn from each household would die.   

God gave his people special instructions.  If they followed the instruction as God commanded, no one would die from their family.

They were to kill a male lamb that was in perfect condition.  God told them to put the blood onto the doorposts.   They were protected by the blood on the doorposts.  

Death was everywhere in Egypt, but God's people were saved because of the blood.

Pharoah gave in after the last plague and he finally let God's people go. Once Pharaoh realized what Egypt would be without slaves.  He called all his army together and He and his army went after them to bring them back.  Once again God held back the army of Egypt, with a pillar of fire.  

God brought them to the edge of the Red Sea.  Moses held up his rod and then they saw the mighty works of God.  With joy, they moved forward upon the dry ground.  Soon Eygpt and Pharoah too followed when the Jews were more than halfway through.  God let go of the waters on Egypt's side of things and Pharoah and all his army drown'd. 

All of God's people sang and gave praises to God.  They were saved from the terrors of slavery.

Now, they are in the wilderness.  The wilderness is not what we think of as a wilderness.  We think a wilderness is full of beautiful trees of every kind., with deer and a stream running through. Deer and bears, squirrels and coons but in the bible, it is a dry thirsty land.  

Now there are numerous bible stories about the Jews in the wilderness.  (Refer to the pictures)

We are going to talk about Moses striking the rock.  God's people were very thirsty, there was not any water anywhere.  The people became angry and some wanted to go back to Egypt. They put a lot of pressure on Moses and they grievously complained. Moses went to pray and talked to God.  God told him to strike the rock.  Moses had a temper, he was angry at God's people.  They were being faithless and mean.  You would think after everything God had done for them they wouldn't have doubted what God can do.   Moses struck the rock as God told him to, but He struck it twice.  Water started gushing from the rock.  It was a wondrous miracle, it was like a flowing river.  Without water, they would have died.  God saved them from thirsting to death.

Nothing is too big for God to handle.   He can put down the greatest king.

He has power over life and death over land and sea.

He can make water flow from the depth of the earth.

Because God loves his people more than anything.

------------------------------------------------------------------

He made a way for them to be saved and he made a way for us to be saved.

When Moses struck the rock he struck it twice.  God later told Moses he would not enter the promised land because He smote the rock a second time.  He didn't follow exactly what God wanted him to do.

David writes in the Psalms that "God is the Rock" of my strength.  This symbolizes Jesus Christ.

Jesus was struck in his side by the Centurian spear.  Water and blood gushed from his side. Just as a river of life flowed from the rock.

Jesus was smitten once for our sins and that's all it took boys and girls.  Jesus died once for all.

Just as the blood on the doorpost saved the lives of the firstborn.  Jesus' blood was shed for you.  If he had not died we would not live we would die in our sins.  

God's love is rock solid because he did everything to free His people just as he gave himself for us.

There is nothing too big for God when it comes to his children.

He loves You and that is absolutely true.

Will You Love Him?

https://starpoempickjuly.blogspot.com/2022/02/will-you-love-him.html

Deuteronomy 32:4 He is the Rock, 

 Psalms 62:7 In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.

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Lesson:  Susan Y Nikitenko

February 27th, 2022 ©

Dear Father in Heaven, be with each person here today. Open their ears and their hearts to your truth.  Father invite them to yourself this morning. Help them understand how much you love them.

Just as your love shows for your children over and over in the old testament.  You parted the Red Sea for them, You made things happen, great things, mighty things because you loved them.

You gave your Son Jesus to pay our sin debt.  You made a Way. It's up to us to believe and obey.

I ask that those listening,  today, will humble themselves and pray.

and also believe upon your Son Jesus Christ, who shed his blood for our sin. In Christ's Name,

 I pray this. Amen

Poetry And Other Materials On This Site Can Be Freely Used For Christian Bible Centered Non-Profit Ministries And must Remain Unchanged In Any Way. All Other Purposes Are With Permission Only. You May Make Requests At treasurebox18@yahoo.com - All my poems with stories are both real and fictional designed to illustrate a biblical truth. All Rights Reserved. Please Include the Site Name And Proper Credit Back To This Blog. Thank-You.