Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Hello, boys and girls! Today, we’re going to dive into an exciting chapter from the Bible, Deuteronomy 33. But first, let’s imagine something together. Picture a wise, loving grandparent sitting with all their grandchildren on a quiet evening, telling wonderful stories, offering words of encouragement, and giving blessings to each one individually. Doesn’t that sound warm and comforting? Similarly, in Deuteronomy 33, we see Moses—a great leader who loved God and his people—speaking his last words of blessing to the twelve tribes of Israel.
Imagine you’re a part of a large family gathering. Each cousin, sibling, and friend is sitting around, eagerly waiting to hear what this loving figure will say to them. Just like that family, each tribe of Israel gathered to hear what Moses had to say. Moses knew this would be his last time speaking to the tribes, so he used this moment to remind them of God’s love and promises.
Today, we’ll explore these blessings and see how each one was special and different, just like how a grandparent might have different words for each grandchild because each is unique. We’ll learn what those blessings meant and discover how we, too, are uniquely loved by God. Are you ready to explore this special moment in the Bible? Let’s uncover these powerful blessings together!
Main Teaching Points
1. Moses: The Great Leader and Prophet
First, let’s talk about Moses. Who was Moses? He was the leader God chose to guide the Israelites out of Egypt, where they were slaves, to the promised land. Think about the Red Sea parting or the Ten Commandments—amazing stories we have heard before. Moses was a friend of God, and he acted like a bridge between God and His people, passing down God’s words to them.
Moses was at the end of his journey, and like a caring parent, he wanted to make sure the Israelites were prepared to step into the promises God had for them. Through his blessings, Moses was praying for the future of each tribe, their protection, prosperity, and peace.
2. The Blessings: Unique and Special
Deuteronomy 33 is all about the blessings Moses gave to each tribe. Each tribe was like a branch on a big family tree. Every branch is different but connected to the same tree. Similarly, each tribe was unique, yet all were part of God’s big family.
For example, he blessed the tribe of Reuben, praying they would have many people and live long. It was like saying, “May Reuben’s family never shrink!” Isn’t that a wonderful promise?
Then there was the tribe of Judah. Moses asked God to listen to Judah’s cries and help them win battles. It’s like praying for a friend who is going to face challenges, asking that they’ll be brave and get help when they need it.
3. Levi and Joseph: Power of Service and Prosperity
Next comes the Levites, and they were given a special job. They were like the teachers and helpers for all the other people, taking care of God’s temple and guiding others in worshipping God. Moses prayed they would continue to be faithful and represent God’s law proudly.
For Joseph’s tribe, Moses asked for wonderful things like rain from the heavens and blessings of the earth. It’s like when we want good things for our family and friends—good food, a safe home, and everything they need to grow healthy and strong.
4. God’s Faithfulness and Everlasting Love
What’s amazing in all these blessings is the constant reminder of God’s faithfulness and love. Moses kept pointing everyone back to God, reassuring them that God is always there, watching over them like a shepherd watches his sheep.
Imagine having someone who always looks out for you, makes you feel safe, and only wants what is best for you. That’s what God is like for us and for the Israelites back then. Moses wanted each tribe to know and remember this.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
Now, let’s think about how these stories and blessings can apply to our own lives. Each tribe had different blessings that fit their unique personality and role in God’s plan. This tells us that we, too, are made special by God. Even if we’re part of a big class or family, each one of us is unique.
Think of your favorite superhero. Every superhero has a different talent or power, right? Superman can fly, and Spider-Man has his webs. Each one is special in their own way, just like we are. God has a special plan just for you, with talents and blessings tailored to who you are.
Moses blessed the tribes, and those blessings can remind us that God wants to bless us, too. His blessings might be something like giving us a great sense of humor to cheer others up, or a kind heart that helps friends in need.
When you pray, you can ask God what special plans He has for you. Remember, even small actions, like helping a friend with their homework or being kind to your sibling, can be part of God’s amazing plans for your life.
Interactive Discussion Questions
1. What do you think makes you special?
Guide students in recognizing their unique qualities. Encourage them to think of talents or things they do well. This helps them understand that, like the tribes, their differences are important in God’s story.
2. How does knowing God loves each of us uniquely help us treat others?
Discuss with students how understanding God’s unique love for everyone can lead to kindness and patience. Emphasize treating others with respect and appreciation of their God-given qualities.
3. Why is it important to bless others, like Moses did?
Guide students in thinking about the power of their words. How can saying positive things to others make a big difference in someone’s day? Help students see the value in encouraging friends and family.
4. What is one thing you can do this week to show someone God’s love?
Encourage students to think of practical, obtainable tasks that convey God’s love. Examples might be drawing a picture for a family member, sharing a toy with a friend, or helping a sibling clean up.
Remember, each of you is special and loved by God, just like each tribe was cared for and blessed through Moses. As you go about your week, look for ways to share that love with others, and hold tight to the assurance that you’re part of God’s great, wonderful family.
Games
Game 1: Deuteronomy 33 Blessings Relay
Instructions:
1. Form two teams with an equal number of players.
2. Read Deuteronomy 33 aloud to the students to familiarize them with the blessings.
3. Each team receives a set of index cards with names of the 12 tribes of Israel mentioned in the chapter.
4. Place two baskets at the opposite end of the room, one for each team.
5. Students must race to match the tribe names with their correct blessings by placing cards into the correct basket using the clues read by the teacher.
Number of Players:
6 to 12 players (2 teams)
Materials Needed:
– Index cards with the names of the 12 tribes
– Two baskets
– Printed copy of Deuteronomy 33 blessings
Setup:
– Divide the room with starting and end lines.
– Place baskets at the end line.
Lesson Reinforcement:
This game helps students remember the specific blessings given to each tribe in Deuteronomy 33, emphasizing God’s care and promises to various tribes.
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Game 2: Blessing Match-Up
Instructions:
1. Provide each student a worksheet listing short phrases from the different blessings in Deuteronomy 33.
2. Display a list of the tribes on the board.
3. Students must draw lines to match each phrase with the correct tribe.
4. Once completed, discuss the matches as a group.
Number of Players:
Individual or small groups
Materials Needed:
– Worksheets with blessing phrases
– Pencils
Setup:
– Distribute worksheets and pencils to each student.
Lesson Reinforcement:
Matching the blessings with the tribes reinforces comprehension of biblical text and shows how each tribe received a specific blessing tailored to their role and needs.
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Game 3: Blessings Charades
Instructions:
1. Write blessings from Deuteronomy 33 on slips of paper.
2. Each student draws a slip and acts out the blessing without speaking.
3. Other students guess which tribe and blessing are being represented.
4. Discuss the meaning of the blessing once correctly guessed.
Number of Players:
8 to 15 players
Materials Needed:
– Slips of paper with written blessings
– A hat or bowl to hold the slips
Setup:
– Arrange chairs in a semi-circle for the audience.
– Place the hat or bowl at the front.
Lesson Reinforcement:
Acting out blessings in charades format encourages students to interpret and communicate biblical concepts creatively, aiding in memory retention and understanding.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Reflection on Deuteronomy 33
Objective:
To understand blessings and how we can bless others.
Read Together:
With a family member, read Deuteronomy 33. This chapter contains the blessings Moses gave to the tribes of Israel before his death. Talk about how Moses gave each tribe a special blessing and what that might mean.
Discussion Questions:
1. What is a blessing, and why do you think it’s important?
2. Moses gave blessings to each of his tribes. Do you remember one blessing that you liked? Why did it stand out to you?
3. How do you think the tribes felt when they received Moses’ blessings?
Activities:
1. Make Your Own Blessing:
– On a piece of paper, write a blessing for each member of your family. Think about what makes them special and what you wish for them.
– Share your blessings with your family during dinner or a family gathering.
2. Blessings Tree:
– Draw a big tree on a poster board or a large piece of paper.
– Ask each family member to write down something they are grateful for on a leaf-shaped paper and attach it to the tree. Watch your tree grow with blessings and thankfulness.
3. Blessings Around the World:
– Explore with your family what blessings look like in different cultures or religions. You can do this by looking online with a parent, visiting a library, or talking to someone from another culture.
– Discuss what these blessings have in common with those from Deuteronomy 33.
Reflective Exercise:
On your own, think about a time you felt blessed. Why did you feel that way, and who was involved? Write a short paragraph or draw a picture about it.
Closing Thought:
Blessings are a way to express love, hope, and wishes for someone’s future. Just like Moses blessed the tribes of Israel, we can bless and uplift those around us with kind words and actions.
Remember to bring your activity or reflection to the next class to share with your friends!
Visuals
Title Slide: Introduction to Deuteronomy 33
– Image: A colorful map of the Middle East, focusing on ancient Israel.
– Caption: “The Blessings of Moses to the Tribes of Israel”
Slide 1: Moses on the Mountain
– Visual: Illustration of Moses standing on a mountain with a staff, looking over the land.
– Caption: “Moses Blesses the Tribes Before His Death”
– Description: Show Moses with rays of sunlight, conveying a sense of wisdom and authority.
Slide 2: The Twelve Tribes of Israel
– Diagram: A simple chart displaying the names of the twelve tribes.
– Caption: “The Tribes of Israel”
– Description: Each tribe name should be in a different color, representing diversity and unity.
Slide 3: Blessings for Each Tribe
– Visual: A scroll-like list with simple icons representing each tribe’s blessing.
– Caption: “The Unique Blessings to Each Tribe”
– Description: Use icons, like a tent for Reuben, a lion for Judah, etc., to symbolize the characteristics associated with each blessing.
Slide 4: Reuben, Simeon, and Levi
– Illustration: Side-by-side images for each of the three tribes with their corresponding icons.
– Caption: “Reuben: longetivity, Simeon: unity, Levi: faithfulness”
– Description: Draw simple, child-friendly depictions, such as an open book for Levi’s focus on teaching the law.
Slide 5: Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun
– Visual: Colorful representations of Judah with a crown, Issachar with a sun, and Zebulun with a boat.
– Caption: “Judah: leadership, Issachar: knowledge, Zebulun: prosperity”
– Description: Highlight the tribe names in bold to focus attention.
Slide 6: Blessings of Strength and Safety
– Visual: A strong shield and a pair of hands emphasizing safety.
– Caption: “Blessings of Strength and Protection”
– Description: Use metaphors to make concepts understandable, like a shield for protection.
Slide 7: The Peaceful Tribe of Benjamin
– Illustration: A dove resting on the hands of a figure representing Benjamin.
– Caption: “Benjamin: Dwelling Safely”
– Description: Create a serene scene with muted colors to represent peace.
Slide 8: The Future of Israel
– Diagram: Arrows pointing forward with images of children and a sunrise.
– Caption: “Hope and Future for the People of Israel”
– Description: Emphasize a feeling of optimism and continuous journey using simple, forward-moving symbols.
Slide 9: Recap of Deuteronomy 33
– Visual: A simple tree with branches labeled with the tribe names.
– Caption: “The Family Tree of Israel: Remembering Moses’ Blessings”
– Description: This unifying depiction symbolizes the connectedness of all tribes under one ancestry.
Closing Slide: Reflection and Song
– Image: Children sitting in a circle, holding hands, with music notes around.
– Caption: “Reflecting on the Blessings – Sing Together!”
– Description: Suggest playing a simple, melody-friendly song that encapsulates the essence of togetherness and blessings.
Memory Verse
Key Verse: Deuteronomy 33:12 (NIV)
“Let the beloved of the Lord rest secure in him, for he shields him all day long, and the one the Lord loves rests between his shoulders.”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Rhyme:
“Loved by God, rest so sure,
Shielded all day with a hug so pure.
Resting between shoulders wide,
In His love, you’ll always abide.”
2. Song:
Create a simple melody using the tune of a familiar children’s song like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star” and sing the verse.
3. Motions:
– “Beloved of the Lord”: Hug yourself.
– “Rest secure”: Pretend to sleep by resting your head on folded hands.
– “Shields him all day”: Pretend to hold a shield in front of you.
– “Rests between his shoulders”: Place hands on shoulders as if you’re lying back.
4. Short Challenge:
Write the verse out on a piece of paper and say it each time you add a new word, starting with the first word and adding one more until you’ve recited the entire verse from memory.
Group Activity
Activity 1: Blessing Mural
Objective: Understand the blessings given to the tribes of Israel.
Instructions:
1. Read Deuteronomy 33 together, focusing on the different blessings given to each tribe.
2. Divide the students into small groups, assigning each group one of the tribes.
3. Provide each group with a large sheet of paper, markers, and crayons.
Roles:
– Reader: Reads the blessing aloud for their assigned tribe.
– Illustrator: Draws a picture that represents the blessing.
– Writer: Writes a short sentence describing the blessing.
– Presenter: Shares the group’s mural with the class.
Discussion Prompts:
– What do you think this blessing means for the tribe?
– How would you feel if you received this blessing?
– Why do you think this particular blessing was given?
Participation: Each student contributes to their group’s mural and participates in the discussion.
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Activity 2: Blessing Role-play
Objective: Explore the significance of leadership and blessings for each tribe.
Instructions:
1. Assign each student a character: Moses, a leader from one of the tribes, or a member of a tribe.
2. Each group reads Deuteronomy 33:1-5 to understand the setting.
3. Create a short role-play, depicting Moses giving the blessings to the leaders of the tribes.
Roles:
– Moses: Delivers the blessings.
– Tribe Leader: Receives the blessing and responds.
– Tribe Member: Acts as a member reacting to the blessing received.
Discussion Prompts:
– How do you feel about the blessing given to your tribe?
– What is special about your tribe’s blessing?
– Why are blessings important for the people?
Participation: Every student takes part in the role-play and shares their feelings in the discussion.
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Activity 3: Blessings Reflection Circle
Objective: Reflect on personal blessings and their significance.
Instructions:
1. Sit in a circle and take turns reading Deuteronomy 33:6-25.
2. Discuss the variety of blessings described in these verses.
3. Allow each student to share something they feel blessed with in their own life.
Roles:
– Facilitator: Leads the reading and discussion.
– Note-taker: Writes down shared blessings and themes.
– Timekeeper: Ensures each student has time to participate.
– Encourager: Encourages each student to share.
Discussion Prompts:
– What blessing in today’s reading stands out to you?
– Can you relate any of these blessings to your own life?
– Why do you think it’s important to recognize our blessings?
Participation: Each student shares a personal blessing and engages in discussing others’ reflections.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for Deuteronomy 33
1. Reflecting on Blessings
– Deuteronomy 33 talks about Moses blessing each tribe of Israel. What does it mean to receive a blessing?
– Write about a time someone said something nice or encouraging to you. How did it make you feel?
– Is there someone you’d like to bless with kind words today? Who is it, and what would you say to them?
2. Understanding Leadership
– Moses was a leader guiding and supporting his people. Who are some leaders in your life that you look up to?
– How do these leaders help and guide you?
– Write a short thank-you note to one of the leaders in your life. How do they make a difference for you?
3. Connecting with God’s Love
– Moses reminded the people of God’s love and care. How do you feel God’s love in your life?
– What are some ways you can show God’s love to your friends and family this week?
– Think of a time you noticed something beautiful or special around you. How did it remind you of God’s love?
4. Reflecting on Your Own Tribe
– Everyone in the tribes had special roles and blessings. What do you think is special about you?
– Write about how you can use your special talents to help others.
– Is there something new you’d like to try or learn about that could help you grow your talents even more?
5. Prayer Time
– Take a moment to think about what you’ve written.
– In your own words, write a short prayer asking for wisdom and strength to use your gifts well.
– Say a prayer of thanks for the leaders and blessings in your life.
6. Everyday Application
– Moses spoke to the tribes about their future. What are some things you look forward to doing?
– How can you prepare yourself for these future goals?
– Write about one step you can take this week toward something you are excited about in your future.
7. Continuous Reflecting
– How can you be a blessing to someone in your life every day?
– Think about one act of kindness you can do today to make someone smile. Describe what it is and how you think it will make them feel.
Encourage students to revisit their journals regularly to see how they have grown and to reflect on the changes in their lives over time.
Quiz
Quiz on Deuteronomy 33
Multiple Choice:
1. Who is giving the blessings to the tribes of Israel in Deuteronomy 33?
a) Moses
b) Joshua
c) David
d) Aaron
2. To which tribe does Moses say “He shall dwell between his shoulders”?
a) Judah
b) Levi
c) Benjamin
d) Joseph
3. Which tribe is described as the “lord of his brothers”?
a) Levi
b) Reuben
c) Zebulun
d) Judah
True/False:
4. Moses blesses every tribe of Israel in this chapter.
True / False
5. Deuteronomy 33 includes a blessing specifically for the tribe of Dan.
True / False
Short-Answer:
6. What is one thing Moses asks for when blessing the tribe of Levi?
7. Name one of the tribes Moses blesses in Deuteronomy 33.
Answer Key:
Multiple Choice:
1. a) Moses
2. c) Benjamin
3. d) Judah
True/False:
4. True
5. True
Short-Answer:
6. Answers may include asking for the Thummim and Urim, strength, or favor.
7. Answers can include Reuben, Judah, Levi, Benjamin, Joseph, Zebulun, Issachar, etc.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes and Tips for Teaching ‘Deuteronomy 33’ to Elementary Students
Objective:
– Understand the significance of blessings given by Moses to the tribes of Israel in Deuteronomy 33.
– Learn about Moses as a leader and the context of his blessings.
Pacing Suggestions:
– Introduction (10 minutes): Briefly introduce Moses and the Book of Deuteronomy, situating it within the story of the Israelites.
– Reading and Explanation (20 minutes): Read selected verses from Deuteronomy 33 aloud. Focus on the blessings for each tribe.
– Discussion and Activities (20 minutes): Engage students in discussions and interactive activities.
– Wrap-Up (10 minutes): Recap the major points and allow students to share what they learned.
Ways to Explain Difficult Concepts:
1. Moses as a Leader:
– Explain Moses’ role with an age-appropriate analogy (e.g., like a teacher or coach).
– Highlight his relationships with the Israelites and his contributions as a leader.
2. Blessings:
– Describe blessings as positive wishes or hopes. Relate it to everyday situations, like wishing a friend good luck.
– Explain how each tribe received specific blessings related to their unique qualities or roles.
3. Tribes of Israel:
– Use a simple chart or map to show the 12 tribes. Briefly describe the nature of some tribes.
– Connect the idea of tribes to family groups or teams, which students may better understand.
Guidance for Managing Student Engagement:
– Interactive Reading:
– Break the reading into small sections and ask questions after each.
– Let students take turns reading, if comfortable, to promote participation.
– Visual Aids:
– Use pictures or drawings to depict Moses, the tribes, and the blessing event.
– Simple illustrations can help younger students visualize ancient contexts.
– Hands-On Activity:
– Create a classroom project where each student can choose a tribe to illustrate or describe with their own “modern-day” blessing for that tribe.
– Use craft supplies to make a collaborative mural showing the tribes and blessings.
– Group Discussion:
– Encourage students to share examples of how they can give blessings or positive wishes in their lives today.
– Facilitate a conversation about leadership and what makes a good leader, connecting to Moses’ example.
– Closing Reflection:
– Ask students to write or draw one thing they learned and one thing they would like to know more about.
– Allow them to express which blessing or tribe they liked most and why.
By making the lesson interactive and relatable, students are more likely to understand and retain the teachings of Deuteronomy 33.
Crafts
Craft Activity: “Blessing Medals”
This craft helps elementary students understand the blessings Moses gave to the tribes of Israel in Deuteronomy 33. Students will create medals representing a blessing to remind them of God’s promises.
Materials List:
– Cardstock paper in various colors
– Scissors
– Markers or crayons
– Hole punch
– String or yarn
– Gold or silver metallic paint or foil
– Glue
– Stickers or gems (optional)
Instructions:
1. Introduction:
Begin by discussing how Moses blessed the tribes of Israel, emphasizing the concept of blessings and how they were personalized for each tribe. Each student will create their own “Blessing Medal” as a reminder of God’s promises.
2. Create the Medal Base:
– Cut circles out of the cardstock to make the base of the medals. Each student should have at least one circle (around 4 inches in diameter).
3. Decorate the Medal:
– Allow the students to color or paint their medal with metallic paint or cover it with foil to represent the value of the blessings. If using paint, let it dry before proceeding to the next step.
4. Add a Personal Blessing:
– Have students think of a special blessing or area of life they are thankful for or hope for. This could be related to friendship, kindness, strength, courage, etc.
– Students can write a short phrase or word that represents this blessing on their medal with markers. Encourage creativity in the design, such as using stickers or adding decorative gems.
5. Assemble the Medal:
– Once decorated, use a hole punch to make a hole at the top of the medal.
– Thread a piece of yarn or string through the hole to make it wearable as a necklace.
6. Discussion and Sharing:
– After completing the medals, gather the students in a circle. Each student can share their chosen blessing and why it is meaningful to them. Highlight the diversity of blessings and relate it back to the different blessings for each tribe in Deuteronomy 33.
How the Activity Reinforces the Lesson:
– This craft activity highlights individualized blessings similar to the specific blessings Moses gave each tribe.
– It allows students to think about personal blessings in their own lives and express gratitude or hope, connecting biblical teachings to personal experiences.
– By sharing and discussing their medals, students learn about community and the importance of valuing and recognizing different blessings in each other’s lives, mirroring the diverse blessings to the tribes of Israel.
Music
Songs
1. “The Blessing Song” (Paraphrase of Deuteronomy 33:27)
– Lyrics Paraphrase:
“The eternal God is your shelter,
In His arms we are safe,
He loves you, holds you, every day.”
– Suggested Actions:
– Use hands to form a shape over your head for ‘shelter’.
– Hug yourself for ‘His arms’.
– Wave arms side to side for ‘every day’.
– Connection:
This song helps children understand the concept of God’s everlasting protection and love as Moses blesses the Israelites.
2. “God’s Warriors”
– Lyrics Paraphrase:
“Be brave, little ones, in God’s mighty power,
As you stand strong each and every hour!”
– Suggested Actions:
– Flex muscles for ‘mighty power’.
– March in place for ‘stand strong’.
– Connection:
It reinforces the idea of God being the source of strength, akin to the blessings for the tribes.
Worship Activities
1. “Tribe Shapes”
– Activity:
– Have students form small groups, each representing one of the tribes in Deuteronomy 33.
– Each group thinks of a symbol or shape with their bodies that represents their tribe’s blessing (e.g., a shield for protection).
– Connection:
Helps visualize the unique blessings given to each tribe, encouraging collaboration and creativity.
2. “Blessing Relay Race”
– Activity:
– Set up a simple relay race. As each child completes their leg, they shout a short line inspired by a tribe’s blessing.
– Lines could include: “Like Judah, we are strong!”, “Like Levi, we serve God!”
– Connection:
Reinforces the various blessings and heritage of the tribes, while promoting physical activity and teamwork.
Story Connection
Discussion:
– After the activities, gather the students to discuss how each tribe received a unique blessing and how they each have unique gifts and strengths.
– Encourage children to think about the unique strengths they possess and how they too are blessed by God.
Scripture Background
Deuteronomy 33 Background Notes
Historical Context:
– Authorship: Traditionally attributed to Moses, Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible’s Old Testament.
– Setting: Deuteronomy is set on the plains of Moab, where the Israelites are preparing to enter the Promised Land after their long journey through the desert.
– Timing: This chapter records some of Moses’ final words before his death, as he blesses the tribes of Israel.
Cultural Context:
– Tribes of Israel: Israel is made up of 12 tribes, each descending from one of Jacob’s sons. These tribes make up the families and communities of the Israelites.
– Blessings: In ancient times, blessings were considered powerful words spoken over people to bring them success, protection, and God’s favor.
Theological Insights:
– God’s Promises: Deuteronomy 33 shows how God keeps His promises by blessing the tribes. It highlights the special relationship between God and the Israelites.
– Role of Moses: Moses acts as a leader and prophet, delivering messages from God. His blessings emphasize God’s care and plan for every tribe.
– Unity and Diversity: Each tribe receives a unique blessing, showing that while they are one nation, every group’s individual role is important for the community’s strength.
Teaching Tips:
– Focus on Community: Discuss the importance of working together and how everyone has special gifts to offer.
– God’s Care: Emphasize how God loves and cares for all people, just as each tribe was blessed in different ways.
– Blessings in Life: Encourage students to think about blessings in their lives and how they can be a blessing to others.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
