Character Connections

Have you ever hit a dead end? With the fierce Egyptian army on one side and the Red Sea on the other, the Israelites knew they were trapped. On their own they’d have no hope, but they weren’t on their own…and neither are you!

What are some of your family traditions? They help us remember important parts of life, celebrate milestones, and comfort each other at times of loss. When God led his people out of slavery he told them to celebrate it every year as a reminder of his love.

Pharaoh wanted to have the power of a god, but there is only one true God and he wouldn’t let Pharaoh live the lie. Yahweh made Himself known by showing his authority over nature and protecting his people.

Moses obeyed God’s call, but life didn’t get any easier…in fact it got worse. Doing the right thing doesn’t mean it will go smoothly, but we can trust that God will be with us. He has a plan and it’s a good one!

Moses didn’t believe that he could fufill God's call. He didn't feel confident with his public speaking skills or in his persuasive abilities – but God gave him what he needed to do the job. We can trust that God will do the same for us.

Do you have a good boat story? Memories of fishing with grandpa or summer canoeing bring thoughts of peace…but there are other kinds of boat rides that fall into a more perilous category. Baby Moses was all alone as he drifted down the river…or was he?

When Joseph was a teenager his 10 older brothers outnumbered him and nearly killed him. Years later the tables turned. Joseph had wealth and power, his brothers didn’t even have enough food to survive. As they groveled at his feet, Joseph had a choice – revenge or forgiveness.

Having a jealous older brother would be a challenge – Joseph had 10! Their resentful attitude led to hate. They abandoned their brother, but God didn’t! He stayed with Joseph through hardship and he will do the same for you.

Siblings wrestle to win a fight, but parents wrestle with their children as a game. When Jacob sat alone in the desert preparing to face the brother he cheated, a stranger wrestled with him. Was it a fight or something more?

Good teachers design tests to help students reflect and grow. When Abraham is pushed to his limits, he learns more about God’s love than ever before.