The Parent Weekly for July 10th (God answers prayer.)
What we learned today
Big Idea: God answers prayer.
Peter delivered from prison. Acts 12v1–9. God released Peter from prison.
Where we're headed next time
Big Idea: God speaks.
Lydia and Philippi. Acts 1v6–15. Paul spoke to Lydia and she responded to his message.
Did you know?
Share these facts to get the conversation started:
Created by the emperor as a strategic Roman outpost and colony, Philippi was located on the Via Egnatia, the main route between Rome and Byzantium. Those who lived in Philippi were mostly Roman citizens.
When Paul arrived in Philippi, there must not have been a very large Jewish population, because he didn’t find a synagogue. Jewish law required 10 men for the creation of a synagogue.
Paul did find a group of women, including a successful businesswoman named Lydia. God spoke to Lydia’s heart, and she trusted in Jesus as her Savior.
The Philippian church displayed generosity, love, and joy and sent Paul gifts and monetary aid.
Connect as a family
Take some time to look at a map of Paul’s missionary journeys (check out the Internet or the back of a Bible). Then read Acts 16v6–15. Discuss Paul’s travels in this passage and the way God spoke to him and led him. God loves to speak to His children. He can speak to us too! Share with your children a time when God spoke to you and how you responded. Talk with your children about listening for God’s voice and how we can submit to what He asks us to do.
After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together:
How did God speak to Paul?
What did God call Paul and his companions to do?
What are some ways God speaks to us today?
These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God speaks into your everyday life as a family.
Blessing
Blessings are often used in the Bible. A blessing can be a prayer of commission, a portion of Scripture, or words to encourage and guide.
A blessing to pray over your child:(Child’s name), may you hear God when He speaks to you, and may you respond in obedience. May you walk in His ways this week.
