You are welcome to another family bible time. This is a continuation of the last topic arrows and archers. The aim of this post is to examine challenges against arrows and how to overcome them using bible characters.
It is important that the first part of this study be done before this. Click here
Activity 1– do a quick recap of part 1 of this series, ask the children what is required of them as arrows.
Many stories from the bible reflects how the devil uses all sort of means to oppose and corrupt whatever God intends John 10:10-11. He started with Adam and Eve (Gen 3:1-7), continued all through old testament into the New testament tempting our Master Jesus Christ in order to derail him Matt 4:1-11.
The devil has not stopped, he continues to throw challenges to attack God’s intentions, and this includes the purposeful arrows that God has given us Ps 34:19. The bible advised that we should not be ignorant of the vices of the devil, so we will look at some stories in the bible. We will identify the challenges thrown at some arrows fashioned by God and learn to avoid falling prey 2nd Cor 2:11.
Joseph the 11th son of Jacob was indeed an arrow, purposed by God for greater things, but the devil did not spare him Gen 49:22-23. His challenges include:
- Household challenges: Joseph was obviously his father’s favourite and this was not hidden, this became a tool in devil’s hand, and it created strife among his brethren- favoritism and sibling rivalry. Gen 37:3
Activity 2: if you have more than a child, find out if any of them feel that they are not the favourite, explore reasons why and attempt to set things straight. Also ask the children if they have favourite amongst the parents—attempt to make them understand that any act of love is coming from both parents and one should not be favoured above the other. Make necessary amendments.
- Isolation: Joseph was sold into a strange land Gen 37:28. One of the devil’s tool is to isolate and tempt (similar with Jesus, David, Eve)
- Temptation: Temptation comes in various forms, and what is a temptation to one child might not be a problem to another. In Joseph’s case, he was tempted by Potiphar’s wife to engage in immorality Gen 39: 7-10. Arrange one to one time with each of your children and identify their struggles/weakness and offer support. It may be a habit or a behavior.
- Unjust treatment: Joseph went to prison for wrong accusation, this was an attempt by the devil to discourage him Gen 39:20. The bible records the possibility of this happening and how believers should respond James 1:2-4.
Activity 3: Discuss similar real life situations when you experienced challenges and how God helped you. Explore similar situations in the lives of the children, if applicable.
For instance, children can feel isolated when all their class mates are having a discussion about something ungodly and they choose not to join others. Parents should praise and encourage them to keep doing what is right.
Further reading: Read through the life of David from when he was first mentioned in the bible till when he was anointed king (or any other bible character) and identify similar challenges under the headings mentioned above.
How to live in continuous victory over battles against arrows:
- Maintain your role as partners with God. You are a partner, not the owner. Always ask God for further instructions to guide the arrows in your care, keep them sharp and focused. Refer to previous post for scriptural examples.
- Support your child to establish a growing relationship with God through worship, bible study and effective communication with God (prayer). Refer to helpful resources from previous posts.
Reflection:
Do you know your role as an arrow?
Do you understand that there is a battle against all arrows?
Do you know what steps to take to win the battle against arrows and remain a conqueror?
Family circle: Take turns to pray for each arrow asking God to help them overcome any challenges that have been identified.
Raising Godly Children 