In Genesis 27, we see a family caught in a swirl of choices: Isaac asking Esau for his favorite savory meat before passing the blessing, Rebekah urging Jacob to pretend and deceive, and Jacob struggling between obedience and dishonesty. The meal was real. The blessing was real. And so were the consequences.
Jacob’s choice to lie led to fear, exile, and broken relationships. Yet, God didn’t abandon him—He used those hard lessons to shape Jacob into someone new. Kids learn that even when we do wrong, we can grow if we come back to God and walk in truth. Though it will take a while to regain confidence in others' eyes.
What was done wrong: Lying, tricking, and deceiving—even for something good—hurts others and breaks trust.
What’s right: Being honest, trusting God’s timing, and respecting others’ roles leads to peace.
Why it matters: Every choice we make plants a seed—and one day, those seeds grow into fruit. That’s why we “reap what we sow.”
Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© PBKBAnnaBenRINaMPmGNMPB
Object Lesson: A True Apology – Making Things Right
Theme: Humility, Repentance, and Restored
Relationships
Scripture References:
- Genesis
32:20 — “I will pacify him with the gifts…perhaps he will accept me.”
- Genesis
33:3–4 — “He bowed himself…Esau ran to meet him, embraced him, and
they wept.”
- Proverbs
15:1 — “A gentle answer turns away wrath…”
✨ Supplies Needed:
- A
backpack or tote bag
- Crumpled
papers labeled “Lies,” “Pride,” “Fear,” “Anger”
- Small
wrapped gifts labeled “Truth,” “Kindness,” “Bravery,” “Peace”
- A
towel or cloth to “bow” on
Lesson Steps:
1.The Backpack of Burden
Fill the backpack with the crumpled papers and place it on a volunteer’s back.
Say:
“Jacob carried a heavy load—not just physical things, but regrets. He lied, ran
away, and feared Esau's anger.”
2. The Journey to Reconciliation
Set the backpack down and have the child place the towel in front of it, then
kneel or bow.
“Jacob didn’t just say ‘sorry.’ He showed humility—he bowed 7 times before
Esau. This is a symbol of his heart changing.”
3. The Gifts of Peace
Take out each wrapped gift one at a time and replace the crumpled paper.
“Jacob gave Esau many gifts—not to buy forgiveness, but to show he was
sincere.”
As you unpack each gift, explain its meaning:
- Truth
for honesty
- Kindness
for compassion
- Bravery
for owning mistakes
- Peace
for healing
4. The Hug of Forgiveness
Roleplay Esau running toward Jacob with open arms.
“No yelling. No fighting. Just a hug. Esau’s heart was soft, and the brothers
cried together.”
💭 Thought of the Day
A real apology isn’t just words—it’s action, humility, and
hope.
When you say 'I'm sorry,' do it with your heart, not just your mouth. God
honors the courage to make things right.
Susan Barker Nikitenko 2025© PBKBAnnaBenRINaMPmGNMPB
