TableTalks: Why We Do What We DoShembull

Why We Do What We Do: Read the Bible

Ask This: In the animated film, Moana,  the tribal leader knows the way to go by using his hand and the stars. Using the stars helps because they are always in the same place no matter where we are. What would happen if the stars were to move? (They wouldn’t get to the island because they would be headed in the wrong direction.)

Say This: The stars helped them make sure they were headed in the right direction. They were direction markers. As we are living our lives, we need something to help us know that we are headed in the right direction, doing the right things and not making mistakes.

Ask This: What are some things people use as direction markers in their lives? (you’re listening  for “the Bible.”)

Say This: God gave us the perfect direction marker to help us make decisions and know how to live out the Christian life. He gave us His words that we read in a book called….anyone?….The Bible. (Hold up YOUR Bible.)

Read This: Joshua 1:7 

Say This: When this verse says, “observe the whole instruction,” that means God’s instructions to us that we read in the Bible.

Ask This: What are some good things that can come from reading the Bible? (affirm their answers)

Say This: Let’s play a game. I have letters I’m going to put on the table for us to unscramble, to show us the missing word in the sentences I’m about to read. Ready? (Write the letters on a piece of paper and cut or tear them out individually. Let them try to unscramble the letters, then read the scripture. Variation: Write out the full words and place them on the table and let them choose the right word. BE SURE to read the scripture for each sentence.)

1. The Bible ____________  us to serve. 2 Timothy 3:17 (equips)
2. The Bible helps us know how God ___________ us from the penalty of our sins.  2 Timothy 3:15 (saves)
3. When we read and remember God’s Word and obey, it will bring _____________ in life.  James 1:25 (blessings)
4. The Bible helps us to see the _______ in our lives and how to get rid of it.  Psalm 119:9 (sin)
5. Reading the Bible will make us ____________ in our decisions.   Psalm 32:8 (wise)
6. The Bible will keep us from ____________ our lives on things that do not matter.  Matthew 7:24-27  (wasting)
7. The Bible will protect us from going in the wrong ____________.  Psalm 119:105 (direction)

Say This: Why do we read the Bible? We read the Bible it shows us how to live and experience life at it’s best. That means we need to follow his instructions. It’s like when we make brownies or cookies. If we don’t follow the instructions, we end up with something that’s not very good to eat. We have to follow God’s instructions  and learn more about Him as we do.

Pray This: Heavenly Father, we are so grateful for your words to us and how they help us live life the way you designed it. May we be committed to reading it everyday and learning more about you and how we can experience all that you have in store for us.  In Your name we pray and ask these things, Amen.