STORY

BOOK LESSON 4 TEXT

FORGIVE

Story Lesson 4

Jesus t old u s t o p ray a nd s ay,
Forgive o ur s ins,
just a s w e f orgive e veryone w ho h as d one w rong t o u s.
When y ou a sked h eavenly F ather, H e f orgave y our s ins
because o f J esus.

Lets f ind o ut w hy J esus w ants y ou t o p ray a nd f orgive o thers
like F ather f orgave y ou!

2
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


When you were born again as a child of God, all things in your spirit became new! So now you must learn how to
think and do things NEW like heavenly Father and Jesus, our Super Hero!

When Jesus was on earth, the super power of Holy Spirit helped him do everything Father told him. And if you
received Holy Spirit, you have the same super power that Jesus had on earth! Do you know what that means?

It means that the power of Holy Spirit will help you like He helped Jesus! Let's learn about this super power of
Holy Spirit in you!

The power inside of you is a spirit power. Jesus wants you to know that the things you fight against on earth are
spirit things, and he has already beaten them all for you. Holy Spirit will be with you forever and tell you the
truth so you won't be tricked like Adam and Eve. But like Adam and Eve, you must choose who you will obey.
Do you remember who Adam and Eve listened to and obeyed?

They listened and obeyed the devil. Did the devil tell the truth or a lie to get Eve to believe him?

The devil always tells lies! And the devil is still on the earth trying to get everyone to listen and obey him.

The people that killed the body of Jesus also listened and obeyed the devil. But when the spirit of Jesus left His
body, the super power of God's Holy Spirit helped Jesus to beat up the devil and all his demons! They are so
afraid of Jesus that the demons tremble, shake, and run away fast whenever someone like you says the name of
Jesus! Lets clap and cheer for Jesus! YAAAY Jesus!!! We are clapping and cheering for you!!! You are our
Super Hero!!!

Jesus wants you to know and remember that the super power of God in you which is the Holy Spirit, is BIGGER
and GREATER, than ALL the power of the devil! You do not have to be afraid of any evil thing.

Father was so happy Jesus believed and obeyed Him that He made Jesus the King over all kings! And guess what
Jesus did?

Jesus made everyone who believes him a king too! So if you said that you believe Jesus, you are a king! Do you
know what kings do?

Kings are the leaders. God made Jesus the head and highest King, and Jesus made you the king over the devil
and his demons and over all the earth! Did you know that Jesus has given all of his kings a mission and a job to
do on earth for Father?

Your work for God is to be His king and ambassador. Do you know what an ambassador does? An ambassador
is a person that is sent somewhere by their King to say and do what their King has told them. Your mission and
job as king and ambassador is to believe Jesus and show Father's love to all people. Raise your hand if you will
accept the mission to be God's king and ambassador on earth. Let's say, YES, I AM A KING AND AMBASSADOR
FOR JESUS!

3
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


If you chose to be a king and ambassador for Jesus, you must learn how to use your super power of Holy Spirit to
help you like Jesus! Put on your thinking cap! You need to think and practice doing things like Jesus and Father
from now on! The first thing you must learn is how Holy Spirit will help you to show other people God's love and
FORGIVE everyone like Jesus.

If someone does something mean to you, should you hurt them back? Let's think about what Jesus did. When
Jesus was dying on the cross, what did he pray and say to his Father about the people? Was he angry or mad at
them? No, Jesus prayed and asked his Father to forgive them! Jesus said that the people did not know what
they were doing. Jesus showed love to everyone. He was not mad or angry that the people had listened to the
lies of the devil.

Why do you think Jesus forgave everyone even when people hurt him and killed his body? Jesus knows that
when you do not forgive others, the devil makes hate and ugly things grow inside your heart. Father does not
want that to happen to you!

Can you think of a person who did something bad or has been mean to you or to someone else? What did Jesus
tell you to do when someone is not nice to you? Jesus said to forgive them, and to pray for them! Do you know
why Jesus told you to pray for them?

Prayer is your secret weapon. Jesus knows that when a person does mean or unkind things they do not
understand Father or His love! But when you forgive them, and pray for them, God can change their hearts! Do
you know why Father and Jesus want their hearts to change?

Father and Jesus love everyone. They do not want anyone to be tricked by the devil! Do you remember what
your secret weapon is? Prayer is your secret weapon! When you pray and ask Father, Holy Spirit helps you, and
Father will change their heart.

When you choose to be kind and show love to someone who acts mean, God said it is like pouring hot coals on
top of their head. Ouch! That would hurt! You may not see it happen right away, but watch and see how God's
love ALWAYS wins!

Jesus has commanded you to forgive, but you have the choice if you will forgive someone or not!

Did you know, Jesus said IF you do not forgive others that Father will NOT forgive you? It's true! Sometimes
you might have a hard time forgiving someone, but that is when you use your secret weapon and pray for them.
Tell Father about it. Ask Him to help you, and God's power of Holy Spirit will help you to forgive!

Is there anyone you need to forgive?

If so, you can pray these words to forgive them now.

4
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Father,

Help me to forgive them!

Thank you Father. I forgive them now.

Will you change their heart to be kind and to know Your love?

Thank you Father! Amen.

Remember, you are an ambassador and king for Jesus! So everywhere you go, you are a leader for Jesus. As
God's leader and ambassador, you can choose to be the first one to forgive and be kind and love others.

This is your homework! Every morning when you wake up, you can use your secret weapon to pray and thank
Father for His awesome love. Every day thank Father for this day that He made for all of His kings and
ambassadors. Whenever someone asks, who is God's ambassador?

You answer and say, "I am God's ambassador and king!

Who is God's ambassador?

I am God's ambassador and king! Amen!

5
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


PARENT LETTER 4
Dear Parents,

We are using the Foundation Curriculum in partnership with you. Please review (a minimum of three
to six times) with your child the lesson entitled FORGIVE. The story emphasizes how heavenly
Fathers Born Again children can choose to do things like their heavenly Father and Jesus, by
forgiving others!

We discussed that to love others, does not mean you have to let someone mistreat you and hurt you.
Your heavenly Father loves you and does not want anyone to harm or mistreat you; but they can pray
and ask for wisdom and Holy Spirit in them will give them wisdom, and they will know what to say and
do. (James 1:5) (Romans 12:19-21) (I Peter 3:12)

Please help your child to understand this scripture from Romans 12:18-21:

If possible live in peace with everyone. Do that as much as you can. My friends dont try to get even. Leave
room for God to show His anger. It is written, I am the One who judges people. I will pay them back. says the
Lord. Do just the opposite. Scripture says, If your enemies are hungry, give them food to eat. If they are
thirsty, give them something to drink. By doing these things, you will pile up burning coals on their heads.
Dont let evil overcome you. Overcome evil by doing good.

This teaching to forgive, which is Gods way, opposes the worlds philosophy of an eye for an eye and a
tooth for a tooth. (Matthew 5:38-48) Your child heard that Jesus said that if we do not forgive others,
that our Father will not forgive us. (Matthew 6:14-15) We know that sometimes it is hard to forgive, but
when we pray in the name of Jesus and ask Father to help us to forgive, Jesus will change our heart so
that Father may receive the glory. (John 14:13) Holy Spirit helps us. (John 14:16) During this Story Book
Lesson we practiced love by praying for those who have hurt us and sinned against us. (Matthew 5:44-
45)

Please let your child/ren know that to do things heavenly Fathers way, in love and forgiveness, it does
not make them weak, but strong in the love of Jesus for they are reflecting heavenly Fathers perfect
image of love! (I John 4:7 -12) (Matthew 5:44-48) God bless you as you teach your child/ren true wisdom
to obey God, and overcome evil with good! (Psalm 111:10) (Romans 12:21)

Sincerely in Christ,

Your Childs Teacher

6
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


FOLLOW UP ACTIVITY
FATHER HAS FORGIVEN ME SONG

Objectives to be Understood: Father has forgiven all of your sins because of Jesus.

Materials: None

Parent/Teacher Script: Lets sing the Father has forgiven me song.

(Sing to the tune of I Am Special; Or make up your own tune!)

Fold your hands as in prayer: Thank you Jesus! Thank you Jesus!

Point upwards: Father forgave me! Father forgave me!

Point to yourself: You took my sins upon you!

You took my sins upon you!

Throw your hands up in joy: Now Im free! Now Im free!

7
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


FOLLOW UP ACTIVITY
THE FORGIVE EXERCISE!
Objectives to be Understood: Heavenly Father and Jesus commanded us to forgive everyone.

Instructions:
1. Parent/Teacher asks for one child to tell how s/he would handle a situation that will be read.
(The child waits as the group sings The Forgive Song)
2. The group sings The Forgive Song (Part 1) to the child. (Parent/Teacher to help all children learn
the words to the Forgive Song)
After Part 1 of the song is sung, the parent/teacher reads a situation aloud.
3. Child tells how s/he would handle the situation. Encourage the group to give their responses
also.
If the child chooses TO FORGIVE:

the parent/teacher leads the class as they all clap for the childs good choice.
the parent/teacher leads the class (to learn) to sing The Forgive Song (Part 2) inserting the
childs name into the song.

If the child chooses NOT to FORGIVE:

the teacher should gently remind the child of how Jesus told us to forgive others when they sin
against us and to pray for the people who despitefully use us; and we can ask heavenly Father
to help us to forgive.

4. Repeat instructions, using a different child and a different situation card.

The Forgive Song (Part 1)

(To the tune of: This is my story, this is my song; praising my Savior all the day long; OR make up your own tune!)

This is what happened. What will you do? Will you forgive them, like Jesus told you?

This is what happened. What will you do? Will you forgive them, like Jesus told you?

8
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


The Forgive Song (Part 2)

(To the tune of: This is my story, this is my song; praising my Savior all the day long; OR make up your own tune!)

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

IMPORTANT NOTE TO PARENT/TEACHER REGARDING SITUATION CARDS

Some Guidance has been given in each of the five situations to assist in the facilitation of a discussion
with the child and the group about the many varying aspects of each situation. It is always best
however to follow the guidance of Holy Spirit.

9
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Situation Card 1

(Sing with group the Forgive Song Part 1)

(To the tune of: This is my story, this is my song; praising my Savior all the daylong; OR make up your own tune!)

This is what happened. What will you do? Will you forgive them, like Jesus told you?

(Parent/Teacher reads)

A person that you wanted to be friends with said some bad things about you. Your feelings are hurt.
What is the first thing that you would do? (Parent/Teacher to listen carefully to answer)

Parent/Teacher Guidance:
Ask: Would you say anything to the person? (wait for volunteer to respond)

Ask: Why? (or) Why not? (listen to response)

Ask: Would you still want to be friends with the person? (listen to volunteers response)

Ask: Why? (or) Why not?

Say: You have a choice to make here. You can treat this person mean and keep feeling bad about what they

said about you. Or, you can do what Jesus did, before he went to the cross to give his life in exchange for our

sins. The people mocked Jesus and made fun of our Savior by platting a crown of thorns that they put on his

head. The thorns cut into His face and head, but he did not say anything. He was not offended because he

knew that they did not know any better. He knew that they did not know the love of his Father, and therefore

said in prayer, Father forgive them; for they know not what they do. Remember Gods way is love.

Ask: What did Jesus say to do? (listen to childs response)

Ask: Will you forgive the person who hurt your feelings and pray for them like Jesus did? (listen to childs
response)

(If volunteer chose to forgive, sing the Forgive Song Part 2, inserting the volunteers name in the blank.) (To the tune of: This is my story,
this is my song; praising my Savior all the day long.)

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

(If child chooses not to forgive, gently remind the child of what Jesus said.) Jesus told us to forgive others when
they sin against you and to pray for them who despitefully use you. (Matthew 5:44) Thank you___________
for volunteering. (volunteers name)

10
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Situation Card 2
(Sing with group the Forgive Song Part 1)

This is what happened. What will you do? Will you forgive them, like Jesus told you?

(Parent/Teacher reads) You were walking home and a mean girl spit on you and said you think you are
better than me. What is the first thing that you would do? (Parent/Teacher to listen carefully to answer)

Parent/Teacher Guidance:
Ask: Why? (listen to response)

Say: I know you would probably be angry that she spit on you, or think that you had to do something to get

even. But remember who you are. You are a child of heavenly Father, the Most-High God. And God loves her

too; and you now have an opportunity to show her the love of God. (Parent/Teacher to listen to response)

Ask: How could you respond to the girl in love like Jesus taught? (wait for volunteer and/or group to respond)

Say: You could pray quickly inside your heart and ask Holy Spirit to guide you in what you say and do next. For

it is obvious that the girl does not know about Gods way of doing things. Otherwise she would not have spit on
you.

Ask: Can you think of anything you could say to her in love, Gods way? (listen to childs response) (ask group)

Ask: What did Jesus say to do? (listen to volunteers response)

Say: More than one person spit on Jesus, and they hit him with the palms of their hand when he was going to

the cross to give his life so that we all could know our heavenly Father, and he forgave them. (Mark 14:65)

Ask: Will you forgive the person who spit on you and pray for her like Jesus did? (listen to volunteer and groups
response)

(If volunteer chose to forgive, sing the Forgive Song Part 2, inserting the volunteers name in the blank.)

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

(If child chooses not to forgive, gently remind the child of what Jesus said.) Jesus told us to forgive others when they sin
against you and to pray for them who despitefully use you. (Matthew 5:44) Thank you___________ for
volunteering. (volunteers name)

11
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Situation Card 3
(Sing with group the Forgive Song Part 1)

This is what happened. What will you do? Will you forgive them, like Jesus told you?

(Parent/Teacher reads) A boy that you thought was a friend stuck out his foot and tripped you. You
fell down and hurt your knee. It was bleeding. What would you say or do? (Parent/Teacher to listen
carefully to answer)

Parent/Teacher Guidance:
Ask: Why? (listen to response)
Ask: Would you still want to be friends with him? (listen to response)
Ask: Why? or Why not? (listen to response)
Ask: What did Jesus say to do? (listen to response)
Ask: Would you forgive the person who hurt you and pray for him like Jesus said? (listen to response)
Say: Sometimes forgiving someone is not the first thing we think of when someone hurts us. The way most
people would try to handle this situation is to be mean right back or to get revenge. But Jesus said that the
blood that he shed (on the cross) was to give you a new covenant promise from heavenly Father; that by the
blood of Jesus, your heavenly Father would forgive your sins and remember them no more. (Matthew 26:28;
Hebrew 8:10-13) Your heavenly Father doesnt want anyone to hurt you and has said, Vengeance is mine!
Your heavenly Father will repay them for the evil done to you. (Romans 12:19) God said to overcome evil with
good. (Romans 12:20-21)
Ask: To handle this situation the way God said, can you (or anyone) think of what you could say to the boy?
(listen to responses)
Say: You could pray quickly and silently and ask for just the right words. Then speak and trust Jesus. When you
trust God, what you say and what you do will be right. Remember you are a child of God and your heavenly
Father wants you to show others how to live in love.
Ask: Do you think you can do that? (listen to response) (If children say YES, tell them good job for that is what
heavenly Father and Jesus commanded.) (If children say NO, let them know that sometimes we have to pray and
trust Holy Spirit and Jesus to help us when we know we cannot do it ourselves; because Jesus and heavenly
Father had given you the power of Holy Spirit to overcome all tough situations. With the help of Holy Spirit, you
can do it!) (Acts 1:8)

(If volunteer chose to forgive, sing the Forgive Song Part 2, inserting the volunteers name in the blank.)

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.
___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

(If child chooses not to forgive, gently remind the child of what Jesus said.) Jesus told us to forgive others when
they sin against you and to pray for them who despitefully use you. (Matthew 5:44) Thank you___________
for volunteering. (volunteers name)

12
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Situation Card 4
(Sing with group the Forgive Song Part 1)
This is what happened. What will you do? Will you forgive them, like Jesus told you?

(Parent/Teacher reads) A tall boy whispered to you that he was going to beat you up. What is the first
thing that you would say or do? (Parent/Teacher to listen carefully and respond)

Parent/Teacher Guidance:
Ask: (the group) Has anything like this ever happened to you? (listen to answers)

Ask: (dependent on response) What did you do? (listen to responses)

Ask: (volunteer and group) Were you or would you be afraid? (listen to responses)

Ask: Does anyone know what the Word of God says about fear, or being afraid of anything? (listen to responses)

Say: The Word of God says that God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love and of a sound
mind. (II Timothy 1:7)

Ask: What do you think that means? (listen to responses)

Say: God does not lie. (Titus 1:2) So when His Word says that He has not given us a spirit of fear, you say what
God says about you. So tell yourself, no matter what the situation is, that you are NOT afraid. Can you do that?
(listen to responses)

Say: Lets say it together. Say, I am not afraid! (Say with children, I am not afraid!) Thats right God has not
given you a spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. (repeat the verse together) God has not given
me the spirit of fear, but of power, love and a sound mind. (2 Tim. 1:7)

Say: The next thing Gods Word said in that scripture was that God has given us a spirit of power, love and a
sound mind. The power we have from God is Holy Spirit who helps us to do all things like Jesus. (Acts 1:8) So
when we do things like Jesus, how do we do things? (listen to responses)

Say: We do things Gods way, in love! (I John 4:16) There is no fear in love, because when you show love, fear is
tossed out the door. (I John 4:18) Also God said we have a sound mind. A sound mind is a mind at peace
because you know you are doing things like Jesus.

Say: So lets get back to the situation. This bully has said that he was going to beat you up. What did Jesus say
to do? (listen to childs response)

Say: Jesus told us to pray for those who despitefully use youthose who do you wrong. You can show this
person love by praying for him and obeying God.

13
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Situation Card 4 continued

Say: (to volunteer) You heard what Jesus said. Do you believe that God can change this persons heart? (listen
to response)

Say: God can change anyones heart but someone must ask. Will you do it? Will you forgive him for being
mean and pray that God changes his heart? (listen to childs and groups response, and commend children for
choosing Gods way, or remind of what Jesus said.)

(If volunteer chose to forgive, sing the Forgive Song Part 2, inserting the volunteers name in the blank.)

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

(If child chooses not to forgive, gently remind the child of what Jesus said.)

Jesus told us to forgive others when they sin against you and to pray for them who despitefully use you.
(Matthew 5:44) Thank you___________ for volunteering.

14
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Situation Card 5
(Sing with group the Forgive Song Part 1)
This is what happened. What will you do? Will you forgive them, like Jesus told you?

(Parent/Teacher reads) As you walked towards a group of people talking, you smiled and said hello.
One person cursed and called you this awful name. They all laughed. What would you say or do?
(Parent/Teacher to listen carefully to response)

Parent/Teacher Guidance:
Ask: (the group) Has this or something like this ever happened to any of you? (listen to responses) (if so, ask)
What did you do?

Say: It is not easy to have someone curse or laugh at you. Is it? (listen to responses) In this case your feelings
might be hurt because of what the person said and how the group acted.

Ask: If I call you a rat, does that make you a rat? (listen to responses)

Say: No, you are still (call each child by name). The Word of God said that you are wondrously made. God
chose to make you look like you look. You are His beloved. Created in His image! God loves you, and has
blessed you because of what Jesus did for you on the cross. People who say cursing words and mock others do
not yet know your heavenly Fathers heart of love. Remember, Jesus showed us how to love others, even when
others act ignorant; for when Jesus was going to the cross people mocked Jesus, but he blessed them all by
dying for the sins of everyone, even the people who dont know about his love yet. Jesus blessed those who
cursed and hated him and prayed for them that despitefully used him, and persecuted him. Therefore,
although your feelings may be hurt, we have to put our feelings aside and remember what Jesus did and
commanded us to do.

Ask: (the volunteer and group) You have a choice to make. What are some things that you could say or do that
would show Gods love? (listen to responses and guide the discussion, commending and reminding the children
of how heavenly Father and Jesus commanded us to respond)

(If volunteer chose to forgive, sing the Forgive Song Part 2, inserting the volunteers name in the blank.)

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

___ forgave them, s/he showed love today. ___forgave them, s/he did it Gods way.

(If child chooses not to forgive, gently remind the child of what Jesus said.)

Jesus told us to forgive others when they sin against you and to pray for them who despitefully use you.
(Matthew 5:44) Thank you___________ for volunteering.

15
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


FOLLOW UP ACTIVITY
YOU ARE A KING AND AMBASSADOR
Objectives to be Understood: when you believed Jesus, you become one of Fathers children, a king in
Christ Jesus, and an ambassador on earth to show and tell others about Fathers love for them.

Activity: Children will make crowns to remind them that as children of God, He has made them kings
and ambassadors in their spirit.

Materials: crown pattern; tag board; markers; crayons; scissors; stapler; tape, yarn or ribbon, hole
puncher, glue sticks; aluminum foil; jewel-like stickers; other glittery materials to put on a crown.

Parent/Teacher Script:
Father is a Spirit. Holy Spirit is a Spirit. When Jesus rose from the dead, Father gave Jesus a new Spirit
body. Your spirit lives inside of your body. When you believed Jesus, Father made you a totally new
person in your spirit, and gave you Holy Spirit to live in you and be with you. Father is King of the
universe and the highest King of all things. When you believed Jesus, Father made you His child and a
king on the earth in your spirit. Jesus is the King over all of Gods kings on the earth. Jesus has given
you a mission and a job to do on earth for Father. Your work for God is to be His king and ambassador.
Do you know what an ambassador does?

An ambassador is a person that is sent somewhere by their King to say and do what their King told
them. Your mission and job as king and ambassador is to believe Jesus and show Fathers love to all
people. Raise your hand if you accept the mission to be Gods king and ambassador on earth.

Lets say it together:

YES! I AM A KING AND AMBASSADOR FOR JESUS!

[Repeat several times with power!]

In the spirit, God has given His sons and daughters crowns. We dont know what your crown looks like
but we know it is beautiful. We will make crowns to remind us that God has made His children that
believe Jesus, kings and ambassadors in our brand new spirit. And we have a job to do for God on
earth!

16
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE A CROWN:

Cut out (from sturdy paper, i.e. tag board) a crown for each child. [See crown pattern or make
your own crown pattern]
Provide materials for children to decorate their crowns.
As children make their crowns, tell them: They have the job of showing others Fathers
Kingdom of love. This is fun and makes Father and Jesus happy. You get to tell others that
Father and Jesus loves them. You can tell them what Jesus did for all of us. You can pray for
others. When people say or do mean things you can forgive them like Jesus. Holy Spirit is your
helper and together Holy Spirit and you have a great job to do!
Ask children: Since you are an ambassador for Jesus, what are some things that you can do to
show love to others? [Listen to responses]

Scriptures:
2 Corinthians 5:18-21; I Timothy 6:15; Isaiah 33:22; Jeremiah 10:10; John 4:24; Revelation 1:5-6

17
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum

CROWN PATTERN

To attach sides of crown to rest on childs head, either:

a] punch a hole in each side of crown, tie yarn or ribbon through holes, and tie yarn or ribbon ends at back of
childs head. Or,

b] tape or staple paper strips to sides of crown, measure tag board strips to size of childs head, and tape the
strips together so that crown rests on childs head.

Crown Pattern used from internet site Pattern of child crown Bing Images.htm

18
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


FOLLOW UP ACTIVITY
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT
Objectives to be Understood: you can set your mind on the things of the Spirit and be led by the Spirit,
and bring forth the Fruit of the Spirit of Jesus. (Note: This is a nine week activity-one week to learn
each of the nine Fruit of the Spirit)

Materials: Basket or container; Run a copy of the Description of Fruit of the Spirit to cut out each
description, fold and place in basket; scissors; unlined paper; crayons; markers; pencils; See Variation.

Parent/Teacher Script:
The Word of God says, those who identify with the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.
(Romans 8:5) What do you think that means? [Listen to Responses] It means when you truly know that
you are a child of God (God is a Spirit) you should set your mind to think about the things of the Spirit
of God so Holy Spirit can lead you and help you. Everyone who is led by the Holy Spirit is Gods son. To
be led by the Holy Spirit is to set your mind to remember that you are Gods son or daughterand
know Holy Spirit will help you to choose to do the right thing to bear much fruit. Did you know there is
fruit inside Holy Spirit? [Listen to Responses] It is not the fruit that grows on trees. The fruit in Holy
Spirit is called the Fruit of the Spirit. What do you think the Fruit of the Spirit is? [Listen to Responses]
The fruit is the mind of the Holy Spirit in you that helps you to obey Jesus. Your mind is how you think.

Jesus wants you to think and do things by his Holy Spirit. Jesus does NOT want you to let your feelings
be your leader. Sometimes what you feel will NOT be what Jesus said. Jesus told us two big commands
to do from the Words Father spoke. Jesus told us to LOVE Father first with all of our heart, with all our
soul, and with all of our strength. And also to LOVE other people just like you love yourself.
Sometimes loving other people on the earth is hard because everyone is not nice. Sometimes you
might feel like doing something or saying something that is NOT kind or the right way God told His
children to love. But Holy Spirit makes it easier and helps you. He reminds you to use the Fruit of the
Spirit in you.

When you choose to THINK about the things of the Spirit, and you choose to obey the Words Jesus
said, you are being led by the Spirit. Then Holy Spirit who is in you and with you will help you to bear
much fruit. The Fruit of the Spirit is how Jesus wants you to think. You are showing the Fruit of the
Spirit whenever you choose to show LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS, GOODNESS,
FAITHFULNESS, HUMILITY, and SELF-CONTROL. We are going to do an activity to learn what this fruit is
and show you what the Fruit of the Spirit looks like in you.

19
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Activity Directions:
Give each child paper. Set out markers, crayons and pencils.
Ask each child to pull the name of a Fruit of the Spirit from the basket.
Read aloud the Description of Fruit of the Spirit that the child pulled.
Tell child to draw a picture of them showing the fruit. For example, kindness could be a
drawing of you helping someone. Self-Control could be a drawing of you NOT hitting
someone, etc.
Tell children the fruit they pulled is their special fruit to practice for the week.
Their assignment is for each child to look for ways to let other people see their fruit. After the
week is over, children are to return and talk about what happened.
To help children become awareness of each of the nine fruits of the spirit, continue this activity
over nine weeks letting children pull a different fruit from the basket weekly to practice. (If the
same fruit is chosen from basket by a child let them pick again until they select a different fruit.)
Document on the last page of the Student Progress Record the Fruit of the Spirit that you
observe the child doing, in addition to positive information the child shares.

Variation: Make a Fruit of the Spirit tree. Make enough removable pictures of fruit to go on the tree
for each child to have at least one. Write the name of a Fruit of the Spirit on each fruit. (Tape pictures
of the fruit onto the tree) Instead of using the basket to pick a fruit, let children take a fruit from the
tree. Continue to follow Activity Directions.

DESCRIPTION OF FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT

LOVE: Whenever you need help to love someone, Holy Spirit will help you to think about Gods LOVE.
If you dont want to love the person, think about how much Jesus and Father love them. Think about
how the person may not know about Gods love. Pray and talk to Father. Ask Him to help you. What
do you believe will happen when you ask for help? [Listen to Responses] Holy Spirit will remind you
that the fruit of the love of God is in you! You can choose to love instead of following how you feel.
Show LOVE to someone this week.

JOY: Holy Spirit has the fruit of JOY in Him and you! Joy is being happy inside no matter what is
happening around you because of Jesus. When you keep the joy of the Lord Jesus in your heart it
makes you strong. When you feel sad and need help to keep your joy, remember Holy Spirit is with
you, so ask Father to help you keep His joy in your heart. What do you believe will happen when you
ask for help? [Listen to Responses] Holy Spirit will help you and you can choose to think about the JOY
in you and be strong like our Lord Jesus! Show your JOY this week.

20
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


PEACE: Holy Spirit has the fruit of PEACE in Him and you. When people around you are upset or angry,
you dont have to be upset or angry because you have the PEACE of Jesus in you! When you need help
to keep your peace, who is your helper with you? [Listen to Responses] Holy Spirit is your helper. So
ask Father to help you keep His peace in your heart. What do you believe will happen when you ask for
help? [Listen to Responses] Holy Spirit will remind you to choose the fruit of peace and to stay calm!
You can choose to be peaceful no matter what happens. Remember to thank God for his peace. Show
your PEACE this week.

PATIENCE: Father knew that sometimes you will have to wait for some things. So the fruit of PATIENCE
is in the Spirit for you. If you feel like you cannot wait for something to happen, just remember you
already have patience inside of you. Ask Father to help you to show your patience and wait until its
your turn. What do you believe will happen when you ask for help? [Listen to Responses] Holy Spirit
will remind you and help you to choose to show the patient in you! Show your patience this week.

KINDNESS: The fruit of KINDNESS is in Holy Spirit and you. Have you ever seen someone who was being
mean? [Listen to Responses] Jesus wants you to show love and be kind to them. If you need help to
be kind and to choose to do things Gods way, think and remember that kindness is already in you. If
you still need help, pray and ask Father. What do you think will happen when you pray? God will help
you. You have the power of Holy Spirit in you to help you show kindness this week and all the time.

GOODNESS: The fruit of GOODNESS is in Holy Spirit and you. Father is good and He does everything
right. When Jesus came to earth, He showed us how to do good things Gods way. As a child of Father,
you should look for ways to show the goodness of God to others every day. So when you see someone
that needs something good that you can do for them, and you need help to want to do it, pray and ask
Father. And what will Father do? [Listen to Responses] Holy Spirit will help the fruit of Gods
goodness in you to come into your heart! Show the goodness of Father and Jesus this week.

FAITHFULNESS: The fruit of FAITHFULNESS is also in Holy Spirit and you. To be faithful means that
someone can depend on you to do what they asked you to do. Jesus chose to obey his Father and was
faithful. Jesus did everything that Father told Him to do. Father could trust Jesus. Jesus wants you to
obey Him so he and Father can depend on you. But if you need help to be faithful, what should you
do? [Listen to Responses] Pray and ask Father. And what will happen when you pray? [Listen to
Responses] Holy Spirit will help you and remind you that you have faithfulness already in you. So
choose to be faithful. Show faithfulness this week where Jesus can depend on you to show Fathers
love to others.

21
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


HUMILITY: Just like Father, Jesus and Holy Spirit, you have the fruit of HUMILITY inside you. When you
show humility, you do not think higher of yourself than you do others. You can choose to respect
others and not be rude. You are polite, humble, and thank others for the good they do. When
someone yells, fights or is mean hearted, you can choose not to yell, fight or be mean in your heart.
You have the power of humility in you to treat other people the same way you want to be treated.
Jesus told you to pray for those who are rude and mean and show His love to them. But if you want to
hurt the person instead of showing humility, what should you do instead? [Listen to Responses] Pray
and ask Father to help you, and Holy Spirit will help and remind you to choose to use the power of the
fruit of humility. Be humble and show others how you respect them and treat them the way you want
to be treated this week and always.

SELF-CONTROL: God has put in you the power of the fruit of SELF-CONTROL. Self-control means that
you have the strength and power inside of you to control yourself and be the leader of how you feel.
You can be quiet when others are rude, or loud or mean. If someone calls you a bad name, you can
control yourself and not get angry because when people say or do bad things it means they do not
know Fathers love or they are not thinking about it. Jesus does not want you to be angry at anyone
and let the sun go down that day. If you feel anger at them, do not do any bad thing. What could you
do instead? [Listen to Responses] Pray and ask Father! And who will help you? [Listen to Responses]
Holy Spirit will help you to remember and think about the power of the fruit of self control in you. You
can choose to show self control this week and all the time.

FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT SONG!

I h ave l ove i nside o f m e.

Its g rowing b ig j ust l ike a t ree.
When I s how l ove, i t g rows i n m e.
Yes, I h ave l ove i nside o f m e.

22
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


What is another fruit that Father put inside of your Born Again Spirit? [Listen to Responses]

(Sing the names of the different Fruits of the Spirit: LOVE, JOY, PEACE, PATIENCE, KINDNESS,
GOODNESS, FAITHFULNESS, HUMILITY, SELF-CONTROL)

I h ave _ ___ i nside o f m e.
Its g rowing b ig j ust l ike a t ree.
When I s how _ ___, i t g rows i n m e.
Yes, I h ave _ ___ i nside o f m e.

Scriptures:
Romans 8:4-6; Romans 8:14-16; John 15:5-7; Galatians 5:16-23; Jude 1:20; John 3:7; Matthew 5:44;
Romans 12:17-21; John 14:26; John 15:5-8; I Thessalonians 5:17; Ephesians 4:26

23
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


FOLLOW UP ACTIVITY
WHAT DID GOD SAY? LESSON 4
Objectives to be Understood:

1] God made you to be like Him;

2] Gods Word is alive and true;
3] Gods Word is like a sword;
4] Gods Word has the power of life in it, and;
5] to say what God has said.

ACTIVITY: Children will write in their books the Scriptures/Words God Said.

IMPORTANT NOTE: This activity is included in each of our 6 lessons with a different scripture in each lesson for
children to receive into their hearts.

MATERIALS: Pencils; Markers; Stapler; Pre-made book template or purchased notebooks (see Preparation
below)

Preparation: To MAKE A BOOK

Pre-make book templates for each child by folding two sheets of paper in half and stapling (two staples on the
folded side so pages open like a book); OR purchase lined notebooks.

Write out and post (where children can easily see) the following scripture:

DONT LET EVIL DEFEAT YOU, BUT DEFEAT

EVIL BY DOING GOOD.
Romans 12:21

24
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


WHAT DID GOD SAY? LESSON 4

REVIEW:
Are Gods Words alive or dead? (Listen to Responses)

Gods Words are ALIVE and TRUE. God made everything to be good and come alive by His Word.
Everything God says must happen! God can not lie.

Why is it very important that you learn the things that God has said in the Bible? (Listen to responses)

Father made you to be like Him, in His image. The Holy Bible has Gods Words in it so you can learn
what He said and to be like Him.

Different writers wrote what God told them to write in the Bible. What are the Words in the Bible
called? The Words in the Bible are called scriptures.

What are the different parts of the Bible called?

Books. The scripture that we will learn today can be found in the book of Romans the twelfth chapter
and the 21st verse. Romans 12:21

The Bible has stories about God, and Words God said that are written down for you to know God and
His love for you.

TO KNOW GODS WORD

First, you must LET YOUR EARS HEAR GODS WORD AND BELIEVE IT.
Second, LET YOUR MOUTH SAY THE WORDS THAT GOD HAS SAID.
Third, Tell your mind to THINK ABOUT WHAT GOD HAS SAID.
When you think about what God has said, HIS WORD GOES INSIDE YOUR HEART. And your
heart will help you love like God.

If you would like God, your heavenly Father to help you to know Him and the Words He has said, you
can pray and say these words after me, or you can pray to God in your own words. Ready. Lets pray!

25
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum

PRAYER

Father,
(Pause for Children to Repeat)
I want to know You
(Pause)
Will you help me?
(Pause)
I want to hear and believe You
(Pause)
Will You teach me to say
(Pause)
what You have said every day?
(Pause)
Thank You Father!
(Pause)
Will you help me
(Pause)
to think about Your Word?
(Pause)
Thank You Father!
(Pause)
Will You let Your Word
(Pause)
change my heart
(Pause)
so I will love like You?
(Pause)
Thank You for hearing me
(Pause)
and answering my prayer!
(Pause)
I love You!
(Pause)
Amen.

26
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


WHAT DID GOD SAY? LESSON 4

LEARNING SCRIPTURES FOR OUR BOOKS

PARENT/TEACHER SCRIPT:
Does anyone have something good to tell us that God did for you from His Word? [Listen to the
testimonies of the children]

We are going to add a new scripture to our What Did God Say books?

Show children the Lesson 4 Scripture and let children know these are some Words God said.

Our new scripture is: Dont let evil defeat you, but defeat evil by doing good.

What do you think God means when He says to you Dont let evil defeat you, but defeat evil by doing
good? [Listen to responses]

Gods way of doing things is different than how people in the world do things. God wants His children
to do things like Him, in love. Father wants you to FORGIVE and to be kind and pray for people who act
mean or evil. When you show love and kindness to someone who acts evil, you did not let the evil
defeat you! But when you do good things and show love, you will beat up and defeat the evil with
good. That is Gods way. In Gods Kingdom, His children defeat evil by choosing to do good!

Lets say it boldly together: Dont let evil defeat you, [pause] but defeat evil by doing good.

Lets say it again: Dont let evil defeat you, [pause] but defeat evil by doing good.

Do you remember the name of the awesome love that Father has for you and everyone? [Listen to
responses]

Your Father in heaven loves with a love that is not like the love on earth. His love is called agape love.
Agape love is a heavenly amazing love. Father wants everyone to know His love so He wants you to be
an ambassador for Jesus and show others Gods kind of love.

Repeat after me! I am an ambassador for Jesus, [pause] and I choose to defeat evil [pause] by doing
good.

Has anyone ever been mean or evil to you? [Listen to responses]

Can you think of some good things that you can do to defeat the evil? [Listen to responses and give
feedback as appropriate]

27
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


Lets say the scripture together again. Dont let evil defeat you, [pause] but defeat evil [pause] by
doing good. [repeat]

Ask children to take out their books. [CHILDREN WHO DID NOT BRING THEIR NOTE BOOKS, let them
write their scripture on paper. Tell them to put it in their book when they get home.] [Provide
notebooks for new children or make new book templates for this lesson.]

Write Gods Words in your book.

Every day you can read your book out loud so you can hear and declare Gods Words!

Every day pay attention and watch God do what He said because you believed Him, and you said what
He said.

When you see God do what He said, write or draw a picture in your book about the good things God
did for you.

And come tell us about it.

Lets Sing these Words God Said: (Sing to the tune of If youre happy and you know it)

Dont let evil defeat you, you beat evil.

Dont let evil defeat you, you beat evil.

Dont let evil defeat you and this how you do it.

You defeat evil by doing good.

[Repeat Several Times]

28
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum


SONG: G OD L OVES M E!
(Sung to the tune of Barney Song) (Do motions to Song)

YOU LOVE ME!

[Point upward, then to self]

I LOVE YOU!
[Point to self and upward]

YOU MAKE MY HEART GO PITTER-PAT!

[Point up, touch heart, Clap hands as you say pitter-pat]

YOU LOVED ME FIRST

[Point upward, then to self]

AND I LOVE YOU BACK!

[Kiss your hands and blow kisses up to Father]

YOU MAKE MY HEART GO PITTER-PAT!

[Point up, touch your heart, then clap hands as you say pitter-pat]

I LOVE YOU FATHER!

[Lift both hands up and SHOUT]

Scriptures:
Romans 12:21; Matthew 5:44-45; Matthew 6:14-15; John 20:22-23; Ephesians 4:32

29
Story Book Lesson 4 Foundation Curriculum