Why Should Kids Read the Bible and How It Can Help Them? A Kid's Guide to God's Amazing Story and Love for You.

Unveiling the Treasure of the Bible

Hey there! Have you ever wondered what the Bible is? Some people think of the Bible as a special letter from God just for you! It’s not just an old book; it’s a treasure filled with exciting stories and important lessons. The Bible is God’s way of sharing His incredible story and showing how much He loves you. This is why kids should read the Bible!

What Is the Bible?

The Bible isn't a book. The Bible is actually a collection of 66 books that together tell one big story about God’s relationship with us. And it’s divided into two main parts:

• Old Testament: This section of the Bible has 39 books and includes stories before Jesus was born. For instance, did you know that the first book, Genesis, tells the story of creation? It describes how God created the world in just six days, which is mentioned in Genesis 1:1. The Old Testament is filled with lots of fantastic stories about God!

• New Testament: This section of the Bible has 27 books and focuses on the life of Jesus and the early church. For example, the book of Matthew shares the amazing story of Jesus' birth and teachings, which are both rich in messages of love and kindness. Many of the letters written from church leaders to the brand new churches around the world are in the New Testament.

  
  

Each book in the Old and New Testament is like a chapter in God’s beautiful story, filled with adventures, lessons, and unique messages for you to discover!

Why Should I Read the Bible?

Reading the Bible helps you to:

1. Know God Better: The Bible reveals God's nature and His deep love for you. For example, in John 3:16, it says, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son..."

   
   

2. Learn Life Lessons: The Bible teaches us how to make good choices and show love to others. The Proverbs, for example, offer wise advice. Proverbs 15:1 tells us, "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger." This easy reminder can help you choose your words wisely in tough situations.

   
   

3. Grow Your Faith: The Bible also encourages you to trust God in all aspects of your life. Philippians 4:13 reminds us, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." This can inspire you to face challenges with confidence.

   
   

As Psalm 119:105 says, "Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path."

Open Bible with highlighted verses on a cozy wooden table

Activity: Create Your Own Bible Timeline

Let’s make a timeline to see how the stories in the Bible connect!

What You Need:

• A long piece of paper or several sheets taped together

• Markers or crayons

• A Bible for reference

  
  

Steps:

1. Draw a long line across the paper.

2. Mark the beginning as “Creation” and the end as “Eternity.”

3. Add key events, like:

   • Creation of Adam and Eve in the Garden

   • Noah’s Ark, where God saved Noah and his family from the flood

   • God Calls Abraham, when God chose a special people for Himself

   • The Exodus, shows God's faithfulness setting His people from slavery in Egypt

   • David and Goliath, where God shows His people and His enemies His power

   • The Birth of Jesus, celebrated by many around the world

   • Jesus’ Resurrection, which is a symbol of hope and new life

   • Pentacost, which launched the Church across the world

   • The New Creation, when God establishes His eternal knigdom

     (Feel free to add additional stories on your timeline as well as your own life!)

4. Use drawings and colors to decorate your timeline!

   
   

Fun Conversation Starters

Now that you have your timeline, let’s think about some engaging questions:

• What’s your favorite Bible story and why does it inspire you?

• If you could ask God one question, what would it be?

• How do you think the Bible helps us face challenges in our everyday life?

  
  

Colorful timeline displaying major events from the Bible

Take the Challenge

This week, dive into the story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17, NIV). Think about how David showed incredible trust in God when facing Goliath, who seemed unbeatable. What’s one way you can show trust in God in your life this week, even when things feel tough?

Wrapping Up Why Kids Should Read the Bible

The Bible is more than just a book; it’s a treasure trove of wisdom and love from God! Why should you read the Bible? It helps you know God deeply, teaches you valuable life lessons, and strengthens your faith. You’ll find incredible stories, engaging activities, and a whole world of questions to explore.

Let’s embark on this exciting journey of faith together and discover how God is always with you, ready to guide you in every moment of your life.

Colorful illustrations depicting stories from the Bible