The Parent Weekly for July 7th, Remembering and Celebrating God’s Abundant Blessings

What we learned today

Big Idea: Remember & Celebrate

Feast of Tabernacles: Remembering and Celebrating God’s Abundant Blessings

Where we’re headed next time

Big Idea: God’s Spirit Renews

Fruit of the Spirit and Galatia. Galatians 5—6

Did you know?

Share these facts to get the conversation started:

• Paul’s argument in the book of Galatians revolves around whether or not Gentiles can be accepted into the family of God without first becoming Jews.

• Paul says that if you still believe that you must do outward, fleshly things to be accounted a part of the family of God, you’re still living in the era of the flesh, and, as such, your actions will be fleshly. You will exhibit the deeds that the flesh motivates—sexual immorality, idolatry, hatred, and more (Galatians 5v19–21).

• Paul then says that if you recognize that as a believer in Jesus, you’re now motivated and empowered by the Holy Spirit for Spirit-like living, then your actions will flow from that reality and you’ll produce the fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, and more (5v22–24).

Connect as a family

This week, keep a few pieces of fruit nearby as you read this part of The Big God Story. Ask your children if they’ve ever seen how each piece of fruit grows on a tree or bush. Read Galatians 5v13–25 together. We struggle against our sinful nature, but Jesus died to set us free from sin! God’s Holy Spirit inside us renews us, making us more like Him. God’s Spirit grows spiritual fruit in us. Share with your children a way God’s Spirit has renewed you.

After reading the Scripture passage, discuss these questions together:

• What is the fruit of the Spirit?

• What are some ways you see the fruit of the Spirit in your family members? What are some signs of God’s Spirit working inside of you?

These questions can easily extend into the rest of the week. Look for opportunities to bring conversations about how God’s Spirit renews 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 God’s Spirit renew you as He grows His spiritual fruit in you. May the fruit He produces show others His great power