INTRODUCTION

Moses Sends Spies into the Promised Land

Bible Point:

Be brave for God.

Key Verse:

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Big Picture:

Be brave because of God, even when it’s hard.

Moses Sends Spies into the Promised Land

Numbers 13:1-14:23

You know what it means to stand up for what you believe. You probably admire superheroes or other people who seem bold and fearless. But bravery is not only about big, dramatic moments. This week, we will learn that we can be brave for God in everyday ways. We can speak up when something is wrong. We can choose kindness when others are not. We can stand up for someone who is left out. Real bravery often looks quiet, loving, and strong.

PLANTING THE SEED

Think about a time you REALLY wanted something. You waited a LONG time. Now the moment has arrived! Is there anything that you would let get in your way of getting it?

That’s how it was with the Israelites in Numbers 13:1 14:23. They had waited a very long time to enter the Promised Land. They were sick of the hot, dusty desert and were ready to enter a place described by God as “flowing with milk and honey.” (Tasty, huh?) So here they were. All they needed to do was send a dozen spies to scope out the place. Remember, God PROMISED this land to the Israelite people. Is there anything that could get in the way of their getting it?

Well, as it turned out, there was. Ten of the spies were really scared when they looked at the Promised Land: giant, strong people; big, intimidating cities! But Joshua and Caleb, the two spies who were brave and trusted God, trusted that God could bring them in safely! Forty years later, Joshua and Caleb were the only two spies who entered the land because they had trusted God’s promise.

• Think about a time you were brave for God. How did it feel? What happened?

• Think about a way you’d like to be brave for God. How can God help you do it?

FAMILY FUN

Think of some fun scenarios about being brave for God that, as a family, you can try. Whether it’s at home, school, or the office, each of you has an opportunity to be brave for God. Once everyone has thought of one and written it down, put all the ideas in a hat. Split up into groups and pick an idea out of the hat. One group can illustrate it in the wrong way, and the other group can re-enact it, showing someone being brave for God. Take time to read 1 Corinthians 15:58 as a family at the end of your role-plays.

READY, SET, GROW!

• Think of a situation you’re likely to face this week that will challenge you to be brave for God. Plan out your reaction ahead of time, and act it out so you know what you’re going to do. When that situation comes, follow your plan and thank God for helping you be brave.

• Show a friend God’s love this week.

• Think of a situation that makes you nervous or unsure. Decide the difference between being brave for God in that situation and reacting in fear. Trust God and let God help you walk in God’s way of love when you face that situation.