God Changed Jacob
God changed Jacob’s life and gave him a new name, Israel. Jesus came so that we might have a changed life, forgiven of sin. Jesus’ death and resurrection provided sinful people the way to be adopted into God’s family. When we trust in Jesus, we also receive a new name—children of God.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Here are a few ways to continue the learning at home.
Discussion Questions:
• Why was it unusual for Esau to serve Jacob?
• Why was it wrong for Jacob to steal Esau’s blessing?
• How can we gain the blessings of Abraham’s family?
Family Prayer:
Mornings
Tell God the fears and struggles that you might face today. Ask God to give you peace in each of these areas. How does it feel to know that God cares and wants to help you overcome your fears?
Evenings
Ask God to help you live in the new identity that came when you trusted in Jesus. How does faith in Jesus change us? How should the love God has shown us change the way we live?
Family Activities:
For Fun...
1. Plan a special family dinner. Talk to your kids about their names, what they mean, and why you chose them. Consider making up special nicknames for one another. Discuss the reason why God changed Jacob’s name to Israel, and remind your kids that his name became the name of an entire nation of people.
2. Sprinkle a generous amount of salt on a saucer, then sprinkle a layer of pepper over the salt. Explain that the salt represents the way God originally created people without sin and reflecting His image to the world. The pepper represents the sin that we are born in. Next, rub a plastic spoon multiple times over a microfiber cloth to build up a static charge on the spoon. Pass the spoon over the pepper and watch it “jump” off the salt.
Like Jacob, we are all born in sin. There is nothing we can do to please God or earn His forgiveness, but God has shown His love by sending Jesus through Jacob’s family to rescue us from sin. Jesus’ work on the cross removes our sin and provides forgiveness when we believe in Him.
Supplies: saucer, salt, pepper, plastic spoon, microfiber cloth
To Serve...
1. Collect clothing and coats to donate to those in need. Take time to pray for those who may receive the items. Remind your kids how God was there for Jacob when he cried out for help. Ask God to give comfort and peace to those who are in need.
Supplies: collected clothing and coats