INTRODUCTION

The Israelites Cross the Jordan River

Bible Point:

Remember what God has done.

Key Verse:

“Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done” (1 Chronicles 16:8).

Big Picture:

Remember to give thanks for what God has done for you.

The Israelites Cross the Jordan River

Joshua 3:1-4:24

This week’s lesson is an invitation to notice the goodness of God in both big moments and small ones. God is always at work, caring for us, guiding us, and surrounding us with love. Gratitude is more than simply saying “thank you.” It is a way of worshiping God and remembering all the ways God provides, protects, and blesses each day. As you study throughout the week, look closely for gifts both seen and unseen and respond with a thankful heart.

PLANTING THE SEED

The big day had finally arrived! It was time for Joshua to lead the Israelites across the Jordan River and into the land God had promised to them. The river was at flood stage, but God had a plan. When the priests carried the Ark of the Covenant to the river, God stopped the waters and the priests stood in the middle of a dry riverbed! The Israelites crossed over on dry land to the Promised Land. Then God told Joshua to choose 12 men (one from each tribe of Israel) to each pick up a stone from the middle of the river and to use the stones to make a monument in the new land. The monument would remind everyone of what God had done for the Israelites that day. 

BIBLE POINT

Remember what God has done. 

KEY VERSE

“Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done” (1 Chronicles 16:8).

FAMILY FUN:

Sit down with your family, and together look at old photo albums. Recall your favorite family celebrations and trips, and talk about what made them special. Talk about the friends and relatives you remember while looking at the pictures. Then go back through the albums, and talk about how God has blessed your family through the years. Discuss how God has guided your family, helping you through hard times and blessing you with good times. Close with a family prayer in which each of you gives thanks for one specific thing God has done. 

READY, SET, GROW!

Choose a way you’ll remember and thank God.

• Write down a list of your favorite things God has done. Include things he’s done in your life. Interview other people who know God to ask them about their favorite things God has done, too. Share this with your family to encourage them.

• At dinnertime, lead your family members in a prayer and have everyone at the table say one thing God has done for them that they are thankful for.

• Write a song that tells about some things God has done. Share the song with a friend.