INTRODUCTION

God Provides Water

Bible Point:

God is patient with us.

Key Verse:

“The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters” (Psalm 23:1-2).

Big Picture:

Reflect on God’s patience and how you’ve experienced it.

God Provides Water

Exodus 17:1-7

How do people respond when something they need is missing or delayed? In this study, you will explore the Israelites’ response to the lack of water and reflect on what that story reveals about patience, frustration, and trust. As the week continues, consider what it looks like to bring real needs to God honestly and how trust can shape the way those needs are expressed.

DAILY CHALLENGE

Choose one or more of these Daily Challenges to do this week.

• Instead of a complaint box, make a compassion box for your room. When you feel like complaining to God, write a prayer on a slip of paper for a way that you can help someone in need.

• Show patience with others this week. When you’re tempted to snap, remember Moses turning to God for help at the rock and consider how you can be a blessing rather than a critic.

• Thank God for all the ways you have received patience.

FAITH JOURNAL

In what ways do you test God’s patience? How might you change that?

TALK WITH YOUR FAMILY

Read 1 Peter 5:7-11 with your family, and discuss these questions:

• What is the best way for you to give your burdens and complaints to God?

• If you find yourself complaining a lot, how can you step out of the “pity-party pool”?

• How have you seen God’s patience in the midst of your suffering or complaining?

• How does God’s patience change your perspective on your burdens?

Have everyone name one anxiety, fear, or complaint he or she would like to give to God. Then pray together for God to help your family exercise his patience in the midst of those anxieties.