Keep It! ABC: Deuteronomy for Me: Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World

Keep It!  ABC: Deuteronomy for Me: Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World

Little Kids: "K Is for Keep It" Rhyme, first four NT books introduced, NT rhymes, and song; Luke 11:28 verse, song, and "Keep It Pencil" verse; "King Things" from Deuteronomy 17,  "King Things Crown Book" Make-It;  "Josiah, The Kid King" (II Kings 22) Story, "Josiah Did Right" Action Rhyme; and "Josiah was a Keeper."  Older Kids:  Verse for Today: Deuteronomy 11:1; "Keep the
Passover,"  "Such a Passover Story,"  "God's Story: Josiah" Video;"  A Pop-out Passover Picture;  "Deuteronomy K Word;" and "Be a Keeper" Poem.  Teachers, Parents, Grandparents, YOU!  While He was Yet Young," and  Public School or Homeschool? (Lighthouse Trails New Booklet)

NEW!  Pictures at end of article showing pencil, pop-out color page, king things book, and scroll verse. 

Note:  There are three book reviews in between the "J Is for Judge It" Lesson and this K Lesson;  these will be used in later lessons.  Scroll back to the beginning of these lessons to read the Introductory Lesson and the A-J lessons!    

Little Kids: (Ages 4-7)

K Is for Keep It!

K is for keep it,

as Jesus did say,

"Hear the word 

of God, and keep it."

Yes, keep it today!

From: Luke 11:28

Say It:  Luke 11:28

First read it:  "Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it."  Luke 11:28

Next say it this way:  "Blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it."

Print verse on white board.  Read it to children.  Reread it emphasizing the three words.  Do this several times pointing to each words as you read.  Let K-2 kids "journal it" by copying the verse into their journal.  Illustrate.    

Locate It:  Find Verse in Luke

This verse is in the New Testament (NT).  Let's find that.  Assist kids.  Do you see the word New Testament?  Hold up your own Bible.  Have children highlight "The New Testament."  Say, let's find the gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.  Do this.  Now, let' s go back to Luke.  Find chapter; find verse.  If you have a red letter Bible, "What color are the words in this verse?"  Explain words that Jesus said are often shown in red.  

!Idea!  This would be the perfect time to give kids a Books of the Bible marker to insert in Luke.  

Learn It: First Four Gospels Rhymes

Matthew, Mark, Luke,

and John is the ground

we stand upon!

Another rendition of this little rhyme is this:

Matthew, Mark, Luke,
and John, spread the gospel,
pass it on!*

*This comes from a Canadian mathematician and musician named David Mitchell.  He writes amazing math songs, and has written NT books of the Bible song.   Hear it here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeLV31KnpQE

A lesson aim is to focus in on the first four gospels, to have the children get to know they are in the New Testament, to recognize NT as an abbreviation for the New Testament, and to be able to locate each one.  Journal it, and learn it.  "Train up a child" is a key component of these lessons.  Resolve to  do it!  It will pay great dividends.

Sing It: "Blessed Are They!"
Luke 11:28

Tune: "Brother John"

Blessed are they, blessed are they,   (Smile; trace it.)

that hear the, that hear the,               (Tap ears.)

the word of God n' keep it,               (Put two hands together.)

the word of God n' keep it,

keep, keep it, keep, keep it!              (Shake index fingers.)

"Blessed" means "happy." 

Sing ""Happy are they, ….."

Make-It:  Happy Face Keep It Pencil

Prep It: Needed: new unsharpened pencil, straw, or pipe cleaner; small scissors;  small shapes to fit onto pencil, straw, or pipe cleaner:  "happy face" circle, small folded 2"X 1 1/4" 'Bible rectangle', two 3/4"X2" rectangles.  Cut two tiny slits in the happy face, Bible, and two strips so as to to slip onto pencil starting with two rectangles at bottom, then the Bible, and circle.

Print It/Glue It:  Print verse in parts:  "Blessed are they --that hear the word of God--and keep it."--Luke 11:28"  Cut apart.  Tape "Blessed are they" onto "Happy Face;"  "that … God" onto Bible; "keep it." onto small rectangle; and "Luke 11:28" onto rectangle.  Slide reference rectangle to bottom of pencil.  Next add "and keep it." After add Bible, and Happy Face circle.

Move It:  Say verse while moving parts.  As you say "Blessed are they" move circle; then as you say next part move the Bible, and after move the rectangles.  Or push all of the shapes toward the bottom of the pencil or pipe cleaner and move up one at a time as you say it.    

Keep It In Mind:  Deuteronomy Keeps!

Just like our Luke verse, the book of Deuteronomy has many places that has the word "keep" in it.

So keep this in your mind.  And if you find a "keep" word put a K beside it. 

Hear It: Some King Things to Keep in Mind!

King is a word that begins with what letter?  Exactly, a Kk!  It begins just like "keep."  So keep that in mind too as you hear this little story from Deuteronomy 17.

Hear It: Some Things About Kings

Deuteronomy tells us some things about kings.  God told the people that later on when got into that good land they would get a king.  And when they did, they should remember some king things.  First, their king should be an Israelite, not from any other nation.  Second, their king should not get a lot of horses.  Third, their king should not get a lot of wives.  And fourth their king should not get a lot of gold and silver.  These things the king should not do!  But, there was something their king should do.  He should write a copy of the Book of the Law.  He should read it all the days of his life.  The king thing that was most important was that the king should fear God, and keep all the words of God's book-- to do them!  Deuteronomy 17:14-20

Make-It:  "Some King Things" Crown Booklet

Prep It:  Print crown cover.* Trace it to make crown pages; word strips; glue; crayons, …..
Cut out eight crown page shapes.  Print out text below; cut into strips.  Let kids write title cover:
"Some King Things"  From Deut. 17.  Cut apart strips; glue onto pages.  Draw king.  Draw horses, women, and money.  Draw a scroll.  Draw a heart.  Write keep it!

*Find kids' crown image here:
https://images.template.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/kids-crown-template1.jpg

God said:  when you get to the good land, here are some king
things to remember.

1.  The king should not be from another nation.
2.  The king should not multiply horses to himself.
3.  The king should not multiply wives to himself.
4.  The king should not multiply gold and silver to himself.

1.  The king should write out the Book of the Law.
2.  The king should read the Book of the Law.
3.  The king should fear God, and keep the law
with all his heart, and with all his soul.

End page:  Keep this booklet.  Keep God's word
in mind.

Hear It:  A Kid King Who Did Right In God's Sight!

Remember what we just learned about some king things God said kings should do, and not do.  This little story is a about kid king who did right in God's sight.

Josiah--the Kid King  (II Kings 22, 23) 

Josiah was just eight when he got to be king.  His father and grandfather hadn't been good kings for they had done bad things following others gods and worshipping them.  But, when Josiah was yet young the Bible says he began to seek after the Lord.

As he grew he found evil things that crept into his land.  So, Josiah decided to get rid of all the bad things he found.  He swept away idols--he smashed them.  He swept away idol altars--he broke them.  He took away evil places and priests.

Then, Josiah decided to fix up God's house.  He asked worker men to come in to fix it. As the men were working, Hilkiah the priest found an old scroll that was God's book.  "Look," Hilkiah told Shaphan the scribe writer, "I found God's Book of the Law. Take it to the king!"

Did Shaphan do that?  Yes, Shaphan did.  He even did something else; he read the Book of the Law to the king.  As the king listened, he felt so sad to hear that they'd forgotten God's book.  He wept and cried.  He even ripped some of his clothes.  He felt sorry in his heart for his sin and for his people's sin.  The Bible says he had a tender heart.  What would Josiah do?

He sent some men to a prophetess named Huldah.  Huldah asked God what would happen.  Huldah told them God said he was going to punish the kings of Judah for their sin of worshipping and bowing to idol gods.  But, God said he'd noticed that Josiah had a tender heart and had wept because of his sin.  Therefore, Josiah wouldn't be punished; he would live in peace.

Later Josiah  called everyone-- the old and the young-- to come to a gathering.  What was Josiah's plan?  He would stand to read: "The Book of  the Law!"  All the people stood up too. They listened. They agreed to keep God's laws.  They did.  (II Kings 22,23  II Chronicles 34, 35)

II Kings 23:3  "And the king stood by a pillar and made a covenant before the LORD, to walk after the LORD, and to keep his commandments and his testimonies and his statues with all their heart and soul, to perform the words of this covenant that were written in this book.  And all the people stood to the covenant."

Say It:  "Josiah Did Right" Action Rhyme

Josiah Did Right
in God's Sight!

Evil crept in.
Kings did sin.
Josiah did right
in God's sight!

Every day
he swept
evil away.
Josiah did right
in God's sight!

God's house
needed repair.
Josiah sent men
to work in there.
Josiah did right
in God's sight!

Josiah wept
as God's word
was read.
Then he obeyed
just what it said.
Josiah did right
in God's sight!

Josiah kept
all of the law.
He read it
aloud to the
big and the
small. Josiah
did right
in God's sight!

Josiah did his
part turning to
God with all
his heart.
Josiah did right
in God's sight.
                  LEP
                   
Motions:  1.  Cup hand toward self.  Nod head.  2.  Make sweeping motions with two fists.  Nod head.  3.  Open hand; pound it with right fist.  Nod head.  4.  Wipe eyes; make crying sound.  Nod head.  5.  Make hand scroll.  Hold hands sidewise fingers open, and thumbs up.  Place left hand fingers over right fingers to make "scroll."  Nod head.  6.  Cross hands over heart.  Nod head.  At end repeat II Kings 22:1 below.

II Kings 22:1  "And he did that which was right in the sight of the LORD, …."  You may teach this verse too.  Smile broadly when you come to "right," and point up.

II Kings 23:25  "And like him was there no king before him, that turned to the LORD with all his heart, and with all his soul, and with all his might, according to all the law of Moses; neither after him arose there any like him."

Josiah Was a Keeper--a Keeper of God's Word!

Note some rhyming words in this rhyme:  crept, swept, wept, and kept!  There's a sequence here:  evil creeps or seeps in, Josiah sweeps or puts it away, Josiah weeps and repents, and Josiah reads and keeps God's Word! Others they sleep-- just ignore evil, and pretend it's not there.  Sounds like today doesn't it?  Oh, that we might keep his word with all our hearts and souls!

Big Kids (Ages 8-12)

Say It:  Deuteronomy 11:1  A Verse for Today!

"Therefore thou shalt love the LORD thy God, and keep his charge, (obey his instructions) and his statutes, (laws) and his judgments,(acts of judgment) and his commandments (orders given by God) alway." 

Find this verse in your Bible; highlight it.  It's an easy reference to remember--why?  Notice this verse begins with "therefore." There are many other "therefore" verses; be watching for them.  Do you know the little three dot triangle symbol for therefore?  If not research it, and you will see it --it is like the domino symbol for three with one dot on top and two below.  Make this symbol by this verse.  This verse says to love the LORD thy God, and keep his charge, statues, judgments, and commandments alway.   Notice these four: charge, statues, judgments, and commandments or these three: commandments, statues, judgments, and often grouped together.

Make-It:  A Scroll Scripture Marker

Go to Bible Scroll Images or Ancient Scroll Images.  Print one.  Cut out.  Onto it glue/tape printed copy of Deuteronomy 11:1.   Place in your Bible as a Marker.

Search It:  Two Kk Therefore Verses 4:39,40.

Find these therefore verses "Know therefore …." and "Keep therefore ….."  in Deuteronomy 4:39,40.  Write them in your journal using the "therefore" sign instead of the printed word.

Understand It!  Keep the Passover!  Deuteronomy 16:1-8

Read together.  The Israelites were to keep the Passover unto the Lord in their new land.  There they were to remember how the Lord had brought them out of slavery in Egypt.  They were to remember how the Lord had told them to put the blood of a spotless lamb  on their doorposts and lintels so God's angel would pass over their homes, and keep them safe.  They were to remember how they came through the Red Sea with Moses as their leader.  Passover was to be celebrated at sundown in March or April.  No leavened bread or bread that rises was to be eaten during this seven day time. 

Hear It!  Such a Passover!  II Kings 23:21-25

Josiah the King kept God's laws.  Not only did he keep God's laws but he commanded all the people to once again keep God's special celebration called the Passover or Pesach as God commanded in Exodus 12:3.

Scripture records in II Kings 23 and II Chronicles 34 that there never a Passover celebration like it from the days of the judges of Israel right through all the kings of Israel and Judah right up to Josiah.  How old was Josiah then?  He began to reign as king at eight years old, and this was his eighteenth year as king.  Add them together, and what did you get?  Twenty-six!  He was not an old king at all.

This extra-ordinary Passover was proceeded by Josiah getting rid of mediums and wizards, images and idols, and all the abominations he spied in both Judah and Jerusalem. He fully followed God's laws. And as the Bible says he turned to God with all his heart, soul, and might.

Search It!  Keep It! and  Other _____ It! Passover Rules

Find Exodus 12-14.  Search for these "it" verses you'll discover.

1.   _____ it from the sheep and from the goats.  Take what?  A _ _ _ _.  Exodus 12:5.
2.   _____ it in the evening.  What?  A _ _ _ _.   Exodus 12:6
3.   _____ it on the door posts and the door top.  What?  The _ _ _ _ _.  Exodus 12:7
4.   _____ it after it is roasted with your coat and your shoes on.  What?  The _ _ _ _.  Exodus 12:9-11.
5.   _____ it as a memorial, _____ it as a feast.  What?  The _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.  Exodus 12:14.
6.   _____ it in the blood that is in the basin.  What? Some _ _ _ _ _ _. Exodus 12:21.
7.   _____ it when you lift your rod and stretch it out over the sea.  What? The _ _ _  Sea.  Exodus 14:16.

Answers:  1.  take it--a lamb  2.  kill it--a lamb  3. strike it--the blood  4.  eat it--the lamb  5 keep it-- keep it-- the Passover  6.  Dip it--hyssop  7.  divide it--the Red Sea

View It:  "God's Story: Josiah (Crossroads' Kids' Club)

View the video here:
https://video.search.yahoo.com/search/video?fr=yfp-t&p=God%27s+Story+Josiah%3A+You+Tube+Video#id=1&vid=69f6c9f5e49006a69c0f27a3c79ff76f&action=click
 

Discuss:  After viewing this video discuss:  Did you notice something pictured in the video that is incorrect?  ( The Book of the Law pictured as a book with a spine rather than a scroll!)  What is the difference between an idol and a memorial?  Why was it alright for Josiah to get rid of the idols?  Why is it not alright for people to topple memorials on private property?  Or knock down a statue in a church today?  If one views an idol image in a church or a memorial that lifts up someone or something that is evil what is the proper thing to do?

Color It! Passover/Holiday Coloring Pictures 

Chaya Burstein's informative color book Jewish Holidays and Traditions Coloring Book (Dover Publications, 1990) that has pictures to use with all of the Jewish Holidays.  Several sample Passover color pages can be found under Chaya Burstein's color book Images. Find these Passover pictures here:

https://i.pinimg.com/736x/3a/3a/8a/3a3a8acd5696147b58ffbc77ba4f1225.jpg  Passover Page: Moses Crossing the Red Sea*
https://i.pinimg.com/564x/5d/4a/e7/5d4ae7abc6c1dd57f385795a6fdeb87c.jpg   Passover Seder

*  Color the picture.  Make a pop-out Moses by having a parent or older child use small scissors to cut round Moses from bottom of picture line round his robe edge and sleeve to this hand down to his head and up around his rod and back down robe sleeve to bottom.  Pop him out.  Glue to blue piece of paper.   Little kids will enjoy moving Moses with his rod as he leads the people through the Sea of Reeds or the Red Sea.

I especially like pp.44/45 with its various pictures of the shofar, the yad (pointer), the tallit, (prayer shawl), the Mezuzzah (prayer box), and others.  This color book is an excellent source of pictures for each holiday celebration.   Find the book here:
https://www.amazon.com/Jewish-Holidays-Traditions-Coloring-Holiday/dp/0486263223

Explore It!  Some Deuteronomy Kk Words

Deuteronomy 
K Words

In Deuteronomy,
some Kk Words that
you will see are:
keep, kept, kite,
kill, know, knew,
king, kingdom, kind,
Kadesh too,
Ten Kk words
that you will find,
Yes, ten Kk words to
keep in mind!

Read the sentence; check the reference; and write a Kk word from the rhyme in your journal.

1.     An unclean bird that God said not to eat. (Deut. 14:13)
2.    This person was told to write a copy of the Book of the Law. (Deut.17:18)
3.    A place where Israel stayed many days because of their unbelief.  (Deut.1:46)  
4.    This Kk word is used the most in Deuteronomy.
5.    This word is used in the Song of Moses regarding "the apple of his eye."  (Deut. 32:10)
6.    King Og lived in this place.  (Deut. 3:10)
7.    This word refers to different types of animals.  (Deut. 12:15)
8.    This word is part of the sixth commandment. (Deut. 5:17)
9.    This is a word after "therefore" in Deuteronomy seven. (Deut. 7:9)
10.  This word refers to other gods. (Deuteronomy 29:26.)

Answers:  1. kite  2. king  3. Kadesh  4. keep  5. kept  6. kingdom  7. kind  8. kill  9. know  10. knew

Think About It!  "Be a Keeper!"  

Be a Keeper!

Be a keeper:
a commandment keeper,
a do what you say keeper,
a promise keeper,
an I'll obey keeper,
a God's word keeper,
a do what's right keeper,
with all your might keeper!
Be a keeper!
                                     LEP

So many today are not keepers of all that is right and good. Instead they insist on their own way ignoring God's word and commandments altogether.  Over and over God tells us that obeying his rules surely will pay great dividends.  Be a keeper of God's word!

Teachers, Parents, Grandparents, YOU!

Consider It:  While He Was Yet Young!

While Josiah was yet young he began to seek the Lord; while Caleb was but a young man he wholly followed the Lord.  While Timothy was young he knew the Scripture.  And this is the time that you too can influence your children and grandchildren the most.  So keep this in mind, redeeming the time, for truly the days are evil.

Think About  It: Public School Vs. Homeschool?   

Light House Trails has done a number of articles on all the chaos and confusion we are experiencing right now.  One of the booklets they have recently printed gives one a look inside what public education is offering versus what home school can provide.  I would recommend you read this booklet here, or send for one for this message is one every parent should especially consider at this time. Click here to view the booklet:  Public School or Homeschool? How Public Schools Are Corrupting Children's Values  by Maria Kneas and Berit Kjos.
https://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=32353

           

    

   

A Review: The Hiding Place (Young Readers Edition-Ages 9-12) by Corrie Ten Boom

A Review:  The Hiding Place (Young Readers Edition (Ages 9-12) by Corrie Ten Boom with John and Elizabeth Sherrill

Here's a children's edition of The Hiding Place that takes place in Holland and centers around the Ten Boom family who owned a watch shop in Haarlem.  As the story begins, the Ten Boom Watch Shop
is celebrating its 100th birthday party in 1937.  On that day Corrie, Betsie, and Father ten Boom welcome friends and family who lavish flowers, food, and congratulations onto the watch shop family.  Everyone especially honors Father ten Boom who was affectionately called "Haarlem's Grand Old Man."

On that morning, as always, at 8:30AM sharp Father ten Boom gathered Corrie, Betsie, and his workers around the oval table to read the Bible and pray before beginning their day.  Cristoffels, the clockmender, who was never tardy and never dressed up, arrived a bit late resplendent in a new suit.

Children who attended loved being near Father ten Boom either in his lap or on the floor.  As Corrie wrote, they were especially attracted to father for "he ticked."  For inside Casper's numerous coat pockets were ticking watches he was adjusting and fixing.

Overall what a day it was!  The only harbinger of events to come was the arrival of brother Willem who was escorting a Jewish man who had been beaten by some angry men.  Just as soon as Willem introduced Mr. Gutlieber he was warmly welcomed by Father ten Boom. This little shadow that happened that day, Corrie observed, was but a hint of things to come.

As time went on war broke out, the Germans invaded Holland, and Hollanders as Casper, Corrie, and Betsie became part of the Dutch Resistance.  Soon the Ten Booms began to hide desperate Jewish people in their home eventually building a secret hiding place.  An alarm system was installed, and a special sign was put in their window.  Even their telephone calls had coded messages.

For a time, all seemed to be going well until one day a man entered the watch shop and tricked Corrie into revealing information about the underground operations.  Soon after, Corrie, her family, and others bravely faced being arrested by the Nazis and taken away to the police station before being imprisoned.  While at the police station, Father ten Boom courageously took out his Bible and read Psalm 91 so all around him could hear.

At Ravensbruck, Corrie and Betsie stayed in a dirty room that was so full of fleas that even the guards didn't come in.  This allowed Corrie and Betsie to have Bible studies using a little Bible that had miraculously been kept hidden from the prison officials.  Finally, Corrie is released and begins to tell her Corrie story of The Hiding Place.  Read Corrie's true story to find out why she and her family were willing to risk their very lives for the Jewish people.

Find the book in the Lighthouse Trails store.  Click here: 
https://www.lighthousetrails.com/remembering-the-holocaust/987-the-hiding-place-young-readers-edition.html?search_query=young+reader%27s+edition+the+Hiding+Place&results=167

A Review: Father Ten Boom: God's Man by Corrie Ten Boom

A Review:  Father Ten Boom: God's Man by Corrie Ten Boom

Father Ten Boom: God's Man by Corrie ten Boom is a riveting biography of Corrie's beloved father--Casper ten Boom.  In it, eighty-five year old Corrie shares intimate stories of her father from the last time she saw him as they were imprisoned by the Gestapo to all the memorable times she shared with him at the Beje.

The first words of Corrie's book is a verse from Deuteronomy 32:7 in which Moses wrote, "Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations: ask thy father, and he will shew thee; thy elders, and they will tell thee."

Corrie begins by telling how Peter Casper's grandson had found an old chest full of letters and books from her great-grandfather, her grandfather, and her parents.  Of this past history she declares, "When we dig up gold of the past, it must be beaten unto useful coins for today.  Past, present, and future belong together.  …  Our outlook goes beyond this world, and we are in training for eternity."

As a child Corrie recalled her excitement awaiting her father's stories one evening after their Bible reading.  With the carillon of the Grote Kirk (church) ringing in background, Father told them of great-grandfather Gerrit and his life at the time of Napolean.  Father related that the Bible was the main book in Gerrit's home,  and that Gerrit had been a true man of prayer who had passed on his love of the Lord to Willem Casper's father.

Willem continued his father's godly legacy becoming a founder for the society for Israel.  In 1844 Willem began a weekly prayer meeting for the Israel people being strongly interested in spreading the gospel to the Jews.

Because of his father's love for the Jews Casper too learned to love them.  He told Corrie, "Love for the Jews was spoon-fed to me from my youngest years."  This love was then passed to Betsie, Willem, Nollie, and Corrie.  And Corrie later wrote, "How important childhood impressions are."  This love then played a great role in the Ten Booms hiding Jews in their home during the war.  What an influence the Ten Booms were on all who knew them.  What a godly model for us to follow as well!

Willem Corrie's brother too became a real advocate and supporter of all things to do with Israel.  In fact Willem was so saddened by the hatred and anti-Semitism that he titled his doctrinal thesis: "Modern Racial Anti-Semitism in France and Germany."  Willem predicted that shortly more persecution of the Jews would be coming so as to send many over the border into Holland.  Sadly, his vision of upcoming events proved true.  Willem's young son Kik gave his life saving Jews during the war.

At the end of the book Corrie describes how the Ten Boom family was honored after the war in Israel at Yad Vashem a place of sad memories.  Outside the main building is "The Avenue of the Righteous" where there's a tree was planted in recognition of all the Ten Boom family did and suffered as a result of saving Jewish lives during WWII.  Corrie gave a talk the day of the planting ceremony in honor of Casper.  As she stood outside the building with its eternal flame Corrie thought of her father who had said, "If I die in prison, it will an honor to have given my life for God's ancient people."

Corrie ends this biography mentioning that we love the Jews for giving us the Bible written by Jews, and the Savior who was a Jew and the Son of God--the Messiah.  Even today hatred toward the Jews is evident here in our country, and world-wide.  What a book to inspire us and instruct us to stand with Israel.  Take every opportunity to teach your child the history of Israel past and the hope for Israel in the future.  What an amazing story of a family who loved the Jewish people even to die saving them.  As Scripture reminds us, "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem!" (Ps. 122:6)

Find this wonderful book at the Lighthouse Trails store, order it, and share it with your family and loved ones.  Click here:    
https://www.lighthousetrails.com/biographies/1488-father-ten-boom-gods-man.html

A Review: In My Father's House: The Years Before the Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom and Carole C. Carlson

A Review:  In My Father's House: The Years Before the Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom and Carole C. Carlson

In My Father's House: The Years Before the Hiding Place is a captivating story with many mini Corrie stories, as I call them, just right for sharing with children.  Here are a few of Corrie's around-the-oval-table stories from various chapters you'll enjoy.

Around the Oval Table

Chapter six "Around the Oval Table" describes a piece of furniture at the Beje--where everything took place.  It was the place they gathered for meals, for talking, for games, and for entertaining family, friends or strangers. (P.66)

It was the place with the red and black tablecloth.  It was the place Father ten Boom prayed and read Scripture every day.  It was the place Father ten Boom encouraged each family member to share their experiences.

It was the place "The Blessing Box" was kept.  It was the place "The Bible Game" was played.  Yes, the oval table was the hub of the household.  Corrie summed it up this way, "The oval table in our dining room was the gathering place for hopes and dreams, the listening place for prayers and petitions, and the loving place for joy and laughter." (P.61)

Under the Oval Table

In chapter three "From Small Beginnings" we find little Corrie having a party with her doll Casperina beneath the oval table.  There, sitting unseen on a small stool with adults bustling round her, Corrie felt safe.  There she could keep secrets and no one could scold her.  There it was just Casperina and Corrie together.  (P.33)

On the Oval Table

Corrie wrote, "Many lonesome people found a place with us, where there was music, humor, interesting conversations, and always room for one more at the oval dinner table."  Now Mother ten Boom always told each new visitor how very welcome they were to their home.  Then Mother ten Boom opened her arms wide, and held up "The Blessing Box" telling each new guest because she was so grateful for their presence she would add a penny to their missionary blessing box. (p.38)

At the Oval Table

After clearing off the dishes from the oval table, the entire family would each take out their Bible to play "The Bible Game." Father and Betsie had a German Bible, Mother had the Dutch, Willem had the original in Greek or Hebrew, Nollie had the French, and Corrie had the English.  Father would begin by asking what John 3:16 was in English, and Corrie would answer from her English Bible and so on.  As a result of Betsie having had the German Bible, Corrie commented, God used seemingly insignificant ways to prepare them for the future.  For it was years later in a concentration camp setting that Betsie would use German verses to share the gospel. (pp. 67-68)

Beside the Oval Table

On Sundays the oval table was spread with a clean white cloth, Tante Toos' delicate china, and Tante Jans' ornate silverservice.  Then Tante Anna would ring a little bell.  All present would seat themselves beside the oval table.  Father then would first take out a Sunday-only napkin place it in his lap, bow his head to give thanks for the food, add a blessing for the Queen, and pray that very soon the Lord Jesus would come on the clouds of heaven." (P.63)    

By the Oval Table

Once, when money was scarce and Mother ten Boom was very ill, seventeen-year-old Corrie and Father ten Boom sat by the oval table--the table that had seen happy and sad times. Troubled Corrie asked Father, "What must we do?"  Father wisely replied, "Don't forget Corrie--underneath are the everlasting arms.  We won't fall." (pp. 81-82) (From Deuteronomy 32:27)

These are just a few of the Corrie's mini stories full of truth and full of gospel.  Surely this is a not-to-be-forgotten book that you can share parts with the littlest children or grandchildren.  If you haven't read it, now is the time for you to get a copy and share it with your family! 

P.S.   For more about what happened round the oval table during the war years be sure and read Corrie's entire story in: The Young Reader's Edition of The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom with Elizabeth and John Sherrill.  

The Oval Table

The oval table heard

God's word read,

daily prayers said,

the family at a meal,

things they did feel,

words of the young,

n' words of the old,

all sorts of stories

in Father's household.

                            LEP

Readers:  This read-aloud book will be worked into my homeschool/Christian school "ABC: Deuteronomy for Me Lessons: Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World."  Kids will make mini Corrie books that they can use as you share Corrie's stories. Order In My Father's House which has been beautifully republished by Lighthouse Trails and is carried in the Lighthouse House Trails store here.    
https://www.lighthousetrails.com/biographies-of-holocaust-survivors/391-in-my-fathers-house.html?search_query=In+My+Father%27s+House&results=180         

  

  

J Is for Judge It: ABC: Deuteronomy for Me! Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World

J Is for Judge It!  ABC: Deuteronomy for Me!  Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World!

Here is the next lesson in the ABC: Deuteronomy for Me Series. Scroll back for the rest!  This lesson features Jj rhymes, poems and stories; Jj Bible words, Jj Bible books, and Jumbo Jj;  Judge It! Bible verse, and book marker; little girl Deuteronomy 32:4 verse video, and The Monkey Judge story video;  "Judges Should," Deuteronomy Law Jumble, and a "Whole Lot of Laws" book; "He Is the Rock" verse, cross book mark, and video song; Journal Js, "Kids in Court" video, and Moses' Sculpture at US Capitol; and for teachers/parents "Social Justice Vs. The Gospel."   

Little Kids (Ages 4-7)

J Is for Judge It!

J is for judge it-

a job Jethro did say

Moses should share

with others each day.

Act it out: Moses Was the Judge

Moses was the judge, Moses was the jury,

Moses was tired, Moses was weary;

Then Jethro, his father-law,

Moses did tell, "Choose men with understanding

and wisdom as well-to help you judge." And 

Moses listened!                                             LEP

From Deut. 1 and Exodus 18

Motions:  Pretend to be Moses; let arms droop;

look sad.  Touch head with both hands.

Point to ears; and smile. 

Hear It:  Jethro Helps Moses

Moses was the leader of God's people.  They were on a journey.

The people had problems and kept coming to Moses to have

him fix them.  Jethro, Moses father-in-law came for a visit.  He saw 

Moses.  He saw just how tired out Moses was trying to help the

people.  "You'll wear yourself out," said Jethro.  "Why  don't you 

choose men with understanding, and men with wisdom

to help you." Moses listened.  He took Jethro's  advice and chose 

leaders from the people to be judges.  Moses told his new leader-judges,

"You will hear what the people say and help them with their problems.

If you can't fix it, then I will help you."  After things were much better.
Deuteronomy 1;10-17; Exodus 18:1-27

Listen to it:  Deuteronomy J Words 

Deuteronomy J Words

Big J, little j,

What begins with Jj?

Joshua, Jeshurun, journey,

judge, n' judgments too;

Judah, Jacob, Jordan--

just to name a few!
                                   LEP

Discuss the Jj words in the rhymes and story. List them on your white board. Ask children what the word "journal" begins with?  Print the Jj words in the poem, and pick two Jj words to use in sentences.

Make-It:  Jumbo Jjs

Give kids an uppercase and lowercase outline Jj.  Let kids print Jj words from the story and rhymes inside the Jjs.
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=images+of+outline+large+letters+for+preschool&qpvt=images+of+outline+large+letters+for+preschool&form=IGRE&first=1&cw=1117&ch=373

https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=images+of+outline+lowercase+letters+for+preschool&qpvt=images+of+outline+lower+case+letters+for+preschool&form=IGRE&first=1&cw=1117&ch=373

Learn It:  A Judge It Verse

"...  Judge righteous judgment."  John 7:34 (fours, fives)
"Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment." John 7:24 ( Gr.1-2)

What letter does John begin with?  Explain John is the fourth book of the New Testament.  It is called the Gospel of John.   Help kids highlight "John" in their table of contents.  Assist them in finding the book of John, the chapter, and verse.  Highlight it.  Read it.  Explain this verse idea is from Deuteronomy 1:16, and it is in red in most Bibles because these are Jesus' words.

What does it mean: judge not according to the appearance?  Give examples:  someone who is poor, and dresses poorly; or someone who has lots of money, etc.  What does it mean to judge righteously?

Mark It:  John 7:24 Marker

This is a marker with lots of learning involved in it.  There are four "Jj" words to begin to learn.  And there is a John 7:34 verse to learn as well which comes from Deuteronomy 1:16 where it says: "judge righteously."   If a child is small, they can count the number of letters in the words and notice judgment ends in a t and so on.  They can also compare them to a printed list.  This skill is known as "visual discrimination." which is a pre-reading skill.  They can also listen to hear a "t" e.g. at the end of just or judgment.

Prep It:  jumbo-sized rectangular marker, printed Jj word list, printed verse word strips for youngest children, two colors of markers, pencil, glue ….

Make-it:  Fold marker in half lengthwise.  Give first/second graders printed Jj paper letting them using one color marker print the Jj words listed* down the left side beginning with "judge."  Leave a little space below judge and each of the other three words.   In the space below, using a pencil, or other colored marker, print its definition.

On the right side print "Judge … judgment. John 7:24" vertically. For fours/fives help them glue just four word strips: judge, judgment, just, and justice on the left side.   While little folks can't read the words, they notice the beginning letter and can compare them to a sample.  Skip the definitions and just talk about them.  On the right use Bible verse strips words and glue vertically.

*Word List:   Left: judge (to decide), judgment (a decision), just (fair), justice (fairness/righteousness)  Right:  John 7:24

Explore It! J Books of the Bible

1st/2nd Grades:  Let kids look at the table of contents.  Tell them they are to open their journals and write OT for Old Testament; then they are to search to find Bible books that begin with Jj.  How many did they find?  Do the same for the New Testament.  Print NT and so on.  They should find six OT books:  Joshua, Judges, Job, Jeremiah, Joel, and Jonah; and six NT books:  John, James, I John, II John, III John, and Jude.

When everyone is done, print list on board.  Discuss it.  Which was the first book, the last book? Which two OT books are together? Which has to do with "judges?"  How do you pronounce Job?  Which is the first J book in the NT? How do you say I, II and II John? Which is the last book in NT?  How many books in all; how many in each section?

Listen to It:  Little Gal Quotes Deuteronomy 32:4

In seventeen seconds this little girl quotes Deuteronomy 32:4 --"He is the Rock, his work is perfect...." verse!   What a just perfect video to show how very young children are able to learn scripture!  See her shirt--purrfect!  I recall standing on a platform at four and quoting a verse which to this day I have never forgotten.  Use these lessons to consistently train up Caleb kids who will early know scripture which will make them wise unto salvation.  You may also wish to teach Deut. 32:4 to your child as well as John 7:24.  See the video here:
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=images+of+deuteronomy+32%3a4&&view=detail&mid=0C420ACD8DBBF76AC4720C420ACD8DBBF76AC472&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dimages%2Bof%2Bdeuteronomy%2B32%253a4%26FORM%3DHDRSC3

Look at It:  Judge Images for Kids

Look at the various judge images.  Choose one to print and color.  Click on the cute story; "The Monkey Judge." Let kids watch it.  Talk about how the Monkey Judge managed to cheat the cats out of the cake they found.  Clever!  Find the images here:
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=judge+images+for+kids&qpvt=judge+images+for+kids&form=IGRE&first=1&cw=1117&ch=373

View "The Monkey Judge" here!
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=the+monkey+judge+youtube+video&docid=608000230196578690&mid=BB1F731232A8CAE7E932BB1F731232A8CAE7E932&view=detail&FORM=VIRE

Older Kids (Ages 8-12)

Read It:  Judges Should

Deuteronomy 16:18-20 declares judges' decisions must be fair or just.  Judges shouldn't accept money from someone or take a bribe in order to help them out so they won't get in trouble.  If a judge does accept money or a gift, it can make him do wrong things.  Over all, good judges must decide cases justly or rightly.  They must follow rules that are altogether just!

Learn It:  Just and Right Is He!

Deuteronomy 32:4  "He is the Rock, his work is perfect: for all his ways are judgment: a God of truth and without iniquity, just and right is he."

In your Bible highlight the darkened words which describe who the Lord is.  Every judgment He makes will be perfect and just.  How very different the Lord is than human judges who often are not truthful, nor are they just.  Some day the Bible says all people will stand before God and will answer to him for all they have done.  (Romans 14:10-13)

Mark It:  Deuteronomy 32:4 Coloring Sheet Cross

Click onto "Images of Deuteronomy 32:4" to find Daniellesplace.com "cross"; run off.  Glue it to red or blue paper.  Cut it out.  Its size can be increased to 200% e.g. and that will make the cross bigger.  Or you may print it in a smaller size, glue it to paper, and cut it out for a marker.  Or instead find a rock to which you can attach your cross, and use it for a paper weight.

https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&ccid=qmsIuj%2bH&id=1C16CF4D64AA0FA70E5FF716D3AF2783A5EA4A56&thid=OIP.qmsIuj-HFWQIR3sqeJFYJQAAAA&mediaurl=https%3a%2f%2fwww.daniellesplace.com%2fimages91%2fbible-verse-coloring-sheet-deut-pic-4.jpg&exph=288&expw=288&q=images+of+deuteronomy+32%3a4+kjv&simid=607987787706271066&selectedIndex=64&ajaxhist=0

Sing It:  "He's A Rock" by John Hardwick

Here's a lively video with a seaside intro where kids sing Deuteronomy 32:4; hear it, and learn it.  Do the motions too.  Another song you might sing is "His Banner Over Me is Love" that begins "Jesus is the rock of our salvation …."  Find it here:
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=he%27s+a+rock+john+hardwick&qpvt=he%27s+a+rock+john+hardwick&view=detail&mid=8D90C98049824633B5048D90C98049824633B504&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dhe%2527s%2Ba%2Brock%2Bjohn%2Bhardwick%26qpvt%3Dhe%2527s%2Ba%2Brock%2Bjohn%2Bhardwick%26FORM%3DVDRE

Note:  The "He's A Rock" video takes just a bit longer with its introduction of seaside activities; but its song comes on immediately after.  

Find Out About It:  A Whole Lot of Laws!

The Torah for Dummies (Arthur Kurzweil) details that the Torah contains 613 commandments that Jewish people traditionally have tried to keep.  According to Kurzweil, 248 are positive and 365 (number of days in a year) are negative.  The positive ones are what the Torah wants you to do, and the negative are ones the Torah says not to do.  (p.305)  These lists (found in his appendix) are grouped in various categories e.g. "The Courts and Court Procedures."  One from this list states: "Make sure every community has judges and officers."(Deuteronomy 16:18) (p.311)  Kurzweil also explains that all these laws are related either to the first or second of The Ten Commandments.

This book is a great resource to learn about Deuteronomy from a Jewish perspective.  How glad we are that in order to get to Heaven we aren't required to keep all the laws, for as James 2:10 reminds us if we break one commandment than we are guilty of them all, and as Titus 3:5 tells us it's not by works of righteousness that we have done that we are saved but by faith in the Lord Jesus alone.
https://www.amazon.com/Torah-Dummies-Arthur-Kurzweil/dp/0470173459

Jumbled Laws:  Which law is which?  

Write the correct law verse beside its sentence.  Notice these statements are all incorrect; how should you change them to correct them?

*  A lady should wear men's clothing.
*  A farmer hooked up an ox and a donkey.
*  A man picked a basketful of grapes from a neighbor's vineyard.
*  Reading books about wizards is something God approves.
*  It is fine for a man to wear lady's clothing.
*  If you want to know the future talk to a fortune teller.
*  A man should make sure all his olives were off every tree he owned.
*  A farmer drops a sheaf and goes back to pick it up.
*  In a dispute all a judge needs to listen to is one witness.
*  In war you should cut all the trees down.
*  An Ouija board is a fun board game.    

*  Deut.24:20 (olives)  Deut. 24:19 (sheaf)  Deut. 23:24 (grapes)  Deut. 22:10 (ox)  Deut. 21:23 (tree)  Deut. 18:10 (fortune) Deut. 20:19,20 (trees)  Deut.19:15  (witness)  Deut. 18:11 (wizards) Deut. 18:11 (Ouija)  Deut. 22:5 (men, women)

Parents/teacher:  Print out the sentences and the Deuteronomy references. (without clue words)  Let kids research the verses and put the verse with the correct sentence.  Correct each sentence.  Discuss each one and the laws given.  While some of these laws specifically applied to Israel in that day, a number apply to us today.  Which ones apply to us and why?

Explore More: Journal Concordance Js

Have kids use a Bible Concordance to find Jj words that relate to the lesson.  Record each one in your journal, write a sentence about it, and illustrate. One of my KJV Bibles has an especially helpful concordance.  Besides listing Jj words and their references, it serves as a dictionary as well concisely defining each word.  Here are the Jj words in it:  judge: pass sentence; judgment: acts of judgment; just: honest; justice: equality; justify: defend; and justly: accurately.  Which Jj words do you find in your concordance?

View It:  "Kids in Court" Video

See this video which gives children a little sense of what a judge and a courtroom looks and feels like.  Talk about it with them.
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=kids+in+court+video&docid=608024475302234089&mid=5C92477999E9AE615AC75C92477999E9AE615AC7&view=detail&FORM=VIRE

Learn It:  Moses' Lawgiver Sculpture at US Capitol

Perhaps you've heard of Ten Commandment displays that judges and others have removed. But, all over the US Capitol there's still art work of Moses and the ten commandments. Check into this site to see Moses' marble plague, that's displayed with twenty-two other plagues done by seven sculptors, which hangs over the gallery doors of the House chamber of the capitol.  What other art work exists of Moses and the ten commandments?  Research it!
https://www.aoc.gov/art/relief-portrait-plaques-lawgivers/moses

Parents, Grandparents, Teachers, YOU!

Think About It:  Social Justice Vs. The Gospel

When I first heard the term "social justice"* I recall being unsure of its meaning.  At about the same time I heard the phrase "fix up the world."  That too was puzzling for I'd never heard of the idea that Christians or the church's mission was to "fix up the world," but rather as Jesus instructed we were to "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." (Mark 16:15)  However, this social justice idea seemed to say that if we joined together in common causes with others--even those who didn't teach salvation through Jesus Christ alone-- this would then make the world a better place and would help usher in the return of the Lord.

*  Definition of social justice:  justice in terms of distribution of wealth, opportunities, and privileges within a society.

After some research it was clear churches and colleges alike were and are heavily into social justice pushing the simple gospel message aside.  Besides, it also became apparent many were adding to the gospel. To find out more about social justice "gospel" do read on line, or order the excellent booklet: The Dangerous Truth About the Social-Justice "Gospel" by Mary Danielsen from:
https://www.lighthousetrailsresearch.com/blog/?p=15318     
 



     

Inherit It! ABC Deuteronomy for Me! Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World

Inherit It!  ABC:  Deuteronomy for Me!  Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World

The next lesson in our Deuteronomy ABC series helps a child learn how Joshua was charged by Moses to lead the children of Israel across the Jordan to inherit the land promised them by the Lord.  Create colorful Twelve Tribe Maps, and play the "Zap-It, Map-It Game."  Use pipe cleaners or modeling dough to make map bodies of water and toilet tubes to make twelve tribe rings. Learn the "Inherit It" and "Be Strong" Verses and songs.  Teachers, and parents be encouraged as you write out the"Be Strong" verses and begin to prepare Biblical memories/ materials for your kids to inherit.  As  Moses told Joshua:  "Be strong, and of a good courage!"          

Little Kids: (Ages 4-7)

I Is for Inherit It

I is for inherit it
that good land
God did sware
that his servant
Joshua would lead
God's people there.

Think About It:  Things Kids Inherit

Have you inherited or been given something that belonged to your sister, brother, or a relative?

Perhaps it was old clothing they once wore or toys they used to own. In my husband's family there was a huge bedroom each child in turn took over when the other one left home.

I received things from my cousin--his old rocking chair and lots of books and puzzles.  What are things you've been given from your older siblings or relatives? Sometimes we call these things "hand-me-downs!"    Discuss:   Would it be possible for kids to inherit money or land from someone?  How might this happen?

Discuss It:  Things Grown-ups Inherit

While kids might receive things from others, grown-ups often inherit such things as a house, a family treasure, or property from their parents, grandparents, or relatives. In our family there's a very old watch from the Revolutionary War that's handed down to someone who has a certain name. Do you know about any one in your family that has inherited any thing? Now, God's people would inherit lands that God gave to them that they later would give to their children after them.  

Know It:  Dough It--Inherit It

Roll out some playdough snake-like ropes.  Use them to spell the words: "Inherit It!"  Talk about your word.  What smaller words do you see in inherit?  Here's how we  pronounce it--in-her-it.  To inherit something means to take possession of it.  God's people were going to live round the Lake of Galilee, the Jordan River, and the Dead Sea.  God was going to give it to them.

Map It:  The "Dangling Earring!" 

Hang up a map showing the land where the Israelites lived.  Mention maps have four directions:   north, south, east, and west.  North is always at the top of a map, while south is at the bottom.  West is on the left, and east is on the right.  View map images here:
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=twelve+tribe+allotment+maps&qpvt=twelve+tribe+allotment+maps&FORM=IGRE

Use modeling dough ropes to make N., S., W., and E.  Lay them out on a table.  Next form a Sea of Galilee.  Then  make a skinnier rope for the Jordan River.  At the bottom make the Dead Sea.  Demonstrate.  Every time I look at the Sea of Galilee I think it looks like "an ear" while the Jordan River with the Dead Sea at its end looks like "a dangling earring."

View It:  Images of Promised Land Places

Write the Lake of Galilee, the Jordan River, and the Dead Sea on your white board.  View images of each of them.  Talk about them.  Let kids write two sentences about each one.  Illustrate.  View images here:
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=lake+of+galilee+images&qpvt=lake+of+galilee+images&FORM=IGRE

https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=dead+sea+images&qpvt=dead+sea+images&FORM=IGRE

https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=jordan+river+images&qpvt=jordan+river+images&FORM=IGRE

Hear It:  Moses Tells Joshua to Become a New Leader

Moses was getting older so God told him to charge or instruct Joshua to become the leader to take God's people over the Jordan River into the Promised Land.  After they got there, Joshua would help the Israelites take over the lands that God told them they would inherit to become their new homes.  They would become God's people of inheritance. All of the twelve tribes would have special places each one would inherit to live in.  From: Deuteronomy 1/31

Learn It:  An Inherit It Verse

Deuteronomy 1:38  "But Joshua he shall go in … encourage him: for he shall cause Israel to inherit it."

Move It:  Act it Out!

"But ... Joshua he shall go in …  (Walk in place.)  encourage him:   (Trace a smile!)
for he shall cause Israel to inherit it." (Shake both index fingers.) Inherit what? (Yell: "That good land!")

Ask:  Would Moses get to go into the good land?  Who would be the new leader?  What does encourage mean?  What would the people get or inherit?  Who can you encourage or help?  

Discuss It:  Dividing Up Something

Have you divided up something to give to a lot of kids where some had bigger pieces, and others had smaller pieces. That is kind of like God's people divided or split up the land all around the Jordan between each of the groups or tribes of Israelites.  Some Israelites stayed on the east side of Jordan, and others stayed on the west side of the Jordan. Some had smaller land areas and others had larger land areas.  And they each had their own special space.

Make-It:  A Map Marker

Prep It:  Find a map which shows "The Tribal Allotments of Israel."  Copy it.  Cut rectangle marker from the map; glue to piece of construction paper; and trim round it.   Print Deut. 1:38.
Make-It:  Glue printed verse to map front; to back glue "Inherit It!"  Practice verse and think about it.
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=tribal+allotment+maps+of+israel+images+maps&qpvt=tribal+alottment+maps+of+israel+images+maps&FORM=IGRE

Explore It:  Learn More!

Find as many Bibles as you can; let kids examine the back map sections--did they find maps of where the Israelites lived in their tribal places?  While you are at it help children find the concordances and locate the words inherit and inheritance.  !Idea!  Take kids on a trip to your local library; help them find some Bibles.  Look them over, and find the sections and the helps at the back.  Check out a couple of them; and talk about them with your children.

Name It:  Little Tot Names the Twelve Sons of Jacob

Here's the cutest half-minute video of a little guy about three pointing to Jacob who has on a coat listing his twelve sons. His sister coaches him from the side.  Amazing what little ones can be taught early on!  Perhaps you'd like to have your older kids draw a large Jacob with a coat dividing into sections so they too can do this.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jYlWHJO4KlQ

*  Notice that the twelve sons were not the twelve tribes.  This is an easy mistake to make; however one must remember it was Joseph's two grandsons--Manasseh and Ephraim-- who became part of the twelve tribes who inherited the land.  Understand too that the Levites were appointed as priests by the Lord and did not inherit any land.

Say It: God Led the Way

God Led the Way

God led the way.
He parted the waters.
(The Jordan!)

God set the bounds.
He ordered the borders.
(Their tribe places!)

God made the plans.
He gave them their lands.
(Their inheritance!)

God leads us too.
He'll take us through!
(He promised!)
                            LEP

!Idea!:  Divide kids into two groups.  Have one group say the first part; and the second group loudly say the words in the parenthesis.

Older Kids: (Ages 8-12)

Define It: Inherit and Inheritance

Use the online Merriam-Webster Dictionary to read definitions of "inherit" and "inheritance."  Use the thesaurus to find synonyms and antonyms.  Record your definitions and word lists in your journal.
 https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inherit

Explore It:  A Cool Tool

Use the KJV site given here to view the word: "inherit" in the KJV Bible.  Choose three Deuteronomy verses and highlight them in your Bible.  Put an "I" for inherit beside the verses.

Also view the word "strong" in KJV Bible.  You'll find pages of it.  Especially look at the Deuteronomy verses.  Pick one Deuteronomy verse and one other verse from another book, and write them in your journal.  Explain why you chose those verses.
https://www.kingjamesbibleonline.org/inherit/

Say It:  "Be Strong and of a Good Courage!"

Just before Moses died he told Joshua:  "Be strong and of a good courage: for thou (Joshua) must go with this people into the land … and thou shalt cause them to inherit it."  Deuteronomy 31:7

Make-It: Deuteronomy 31:7 Marker

Search for Deuteronomy KJV Bible verse images with "Be Strong and a Good Courage!" on them.  Print one off. Cut out a marker strip to fit your print.  Onto it, stipple or press down hard with dark crayons to make tiny dot marks all over.  Glue on the verse.  Insert in Bible!  
 https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=deuteronomy+kjv+bible+images&qpvt=deuteronomy+kjv+bible+images&FORM=IGRE

Discover It: Explore More "Be Strong!" Verses 

At the start of Deuteronomy 1:38 Moses told the people to encourage Joshua.  Later in Deuteronomy 31:6, and 23 we read the words to both the people and Joshua to be "Be strong, and of a Good Courage!" as they went into the land.  If one skips ahead to Joshua 1:6, 7, 9, and 18, you will find three more "Be strong and of a good courage!" verses as well as "Only be thou strong and very courageous!" verse.  Highlight these verses, and note the ones that mention inherit or inheritance too.  And may you too ask the Lord today to help you be strong, and very courageous.

Sing It:  "Be Strong and of a Good-Good-Good-Good Courage!" 

Listen to this uplifting video "A Scripture Song: Joshua 1:9" with its "Be strong, Be strong, and of a good, good, good, good courage!"   Hear it here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZjz73AFE4M

The next video also is a different version of Joshua 1:9 sung by the five children.  Listen:
 https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=spencer+family+music+joshua+1%3a9&qpvt=spencer+family+music+joshua+1%3a9&view=detail&mid=9EBAA9284BE7E5E9E5E29EBAA9284BE7E5E9E5E2&&FORM=VRDGAR&ru=%2Fvideos%2Fsearch%3Fq%3Dspencer%2Bfamily%2Bmusic%2Bjoshua%2B1%253a9%26qpvt%3Dspencer%2Bfamily%2Bmusic%2Bjoshua%2B1%253a9%26FORM%3DVDRE

Make-It:  Twelve Tribe Tube Rings

Prep It:  Needed: toilet tubes, ruler, scissors, Tribal allotment map prints, tape …

Make It: Use a ruler to divide a toilet tube into four one inch rings; you'll have a sliver left.  Print off two twelve tribe maps; and cut strips to fit round each tube; and wrap each one in a 1' by 6" section.  You may wish to make small tribe name tags to tape onto each tube.  Hint:  You can pinch these tube rings into smaller circles with two tiny pieces of tape.

Do not make a tube for Joseph, but instead for his two sons Manasseh and Ephraim--Joseph's double portion-- who were part of the twelve tribes.  In addition make two for Manasseh.  Also do make a tube for Levi.  Why?  The Lord designated them as priests who were very own "inheritance!"

Model It:  Land for the Twelve Tribes

In my freshman Bible course at college I recall the professor telling us if we knew where the Sea of Galilee, the Jordan River, and the Dead Sea were located we could then fill in much around them.  Keeping that in mind use playdough or pipe cleaners to make the Sea of Galilee, the Jordan, and the Dead Sea  laying them on a desk/table/floor. Place your tribe tubes at the correct locations.  Check a map as you work.  Perhaps, you might even wish to add little city name cards at various spots.

Color It: Egg Carton Map 

Visit the image page which includes maps of The Promised Land divisions.  Print off one of the black and white outline maps that shows the tribal allotment sections.   Use colored pencils to color it in.  You may wish to print off more than one map and use it as follows:

*  Outline it round its four edges.  Print a smaller matching map to use as a book marker.
*  Choose four or five colors to fill in the various sections.
*  With small scissors cut out the Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea, and Mediterranean Sea areas.
*  Glue to a blue paper.  Use use white colored pencil or crayon around edge of map to add  N., S., E., and W. onto map.
*  Put a teensy bit of glue on the Dead Sea area; sprinkle on some salt.
*  Glue map to top of large egg carton; store pipe cleaners, chips, or verse cards inside.
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=black+and+white+twelve+tribal+allotment+maps&qpvt=black+and+white+twelvetribal+allotment+maps&FORM=IGRE

Play It:  Zap It!-- A Map-It Game

*  Needed: one map per child, and small chips or clips. Make a deck of cards with two cards for each tribe name, bodies of water, cardinal directions, other locations, and extra cards.

* Cards to make: Tribes: East Manasseh, Gad, Reuben, Asher, Naphtali, Zebulun, Issachar, Manasseh, Ephraim, Dan, Benjamin, Judah, and Simeon; Bodies of Water: Mediterranean Sea, Sea of Galilee, Jordan River, and Dead Sea; Directions: North, South, East, and West; Other: The Promised Land, 12 Tribes of Israel, Edom, Moab, and Ammon; Additional Cards: zap it, lose a turn, extra turn, draw an extra card etc.  .

Directions:  Place a map in front of each player.  Each person then draws a card; if that spot is empty he puts a chip on it.  A child drawing a "Zap It" card can swipe two chips from any other player and transfer them to places he needs to fill in.  Place each card drawn at the bottom of pile.  The child  who gets all spaces filled, or has the most after a certain period of time, wins.    

Teachers, Parents, Grandparents, YOU!

Read It, Write It, Heed It:  "Be Strong, and of a Good Courage!"

In these days of upheaval, reading, writing, and meditating on God's word has so blessed me keeping  me from focusing on the endless virus news.  For it I use what I've dubbed "the cool tool" KJV Bible site that allows one to find a word or words throughout the entire Bible.  For this lesson I keyed in "strong" in the KJV Bible.  Then I proceeded to copy many of the verses I found; I have done that for any number of words.  Focusing on the word and writing it out brings such joy and peace.  Warren Smith of Light House Trails has also written some wonderful booklets that do just that.  Two you should order are: "Standing Fast Through It All," and "Pressing On Through It All."  Find them here:
https://www.lighthousetrails.com/booklets-by-warren-b-smith/754-booklet-standing-fast-through-it-all.html

Consider It!:  What Are You Leaving Behind-- Some Baubles or Bibles?

What will you leave for your children or grandchildren to inherit?  Will it be houses, money, land, jewelry, prized collections, possessions, or will it be things that pertain to the Lord?  When my parents went Home to be with the Lord I received some money and a few other things, but that was not what I cherished most.   Instead it was my parents' photographs, letters, diaries, personal Bibles, and books that I so treasure.  And it was also the precious memories of my parents and me reading the Word, quoting scripture, singing hymns, praying together, and listening to Christian books read aloud. May you too be assembling some Bibles, books, and scrap books to pass down to your children and making family memories that honor the Lord Jesus -- items and memories that have eternal value!                 

Hear It! ABC: Deuteronomy for Me! Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World

Hear It! ABC: Deuteronomy for Me!  Raising a Caleb Kid in a Disrupted World

This is the eighth lesson in a Deuteronomy series for homeschoolers, students, teachers, parents, grandparents, and YOU.  The last lesson,"Give It/Good Land", introduced the land "promise verses" that God gave to his special people the Israelites.  With its star theme and its interactive sites, kids will understand God always has been a promise keeper!  In "Hear It", kids will learn about "The Shema" prayer that Jesus himself quoted as well as listen to Shema videos. Teach your kids the scriptures given.  And make it your goal to daily "Give A Shout Out to Reading Scripture Aloud" at your house! 

Little Kids: (Ages 4-7)

H Is for Hear It!

H is for hear it,

D is for darken

Deuteronomy* verses

to which one should hearken!

*  Bible verses

Discuss It:  H Is for Hear It!

What little word is hiding in the word hearken?  What does the word hearken mean?  Why should we highlight or darken special verses in our Bibles?   Print the little rhyme in your journal.  Draw a picture of the Bible in which we hear God speak to us.   

Think About It!  "And the Lord Heard It!"

There's a song that goes:  "He sees what we do, He hears what we say, my God is watching all the time, time, time; He sees what we do, he hears what we say. My God is watching all the time."  Who is it that sees us and listens to every word we say?  

Way back in Moses' day God was listening.  In Numbers 11 when the people grumbled and mumbled, the Lord heard it. In Numbers 12 when his sister Miriam and his brother Aaron murmured against Moses, the Lord heard it.  In Deuteronomy 1 when the ten spies did not trust in the Lord he heard the voice of their words.  He wasn't happy with them.  But, He was pleased with Caleb and Joshua who trusted in him.      

Listen to It:  Collin Covers his Ears

A little boy named Collin was busily playing at the park.  As he played, Collin kept getting farther away from his brother and his dad.  Pretty soon his dad noticed that Collin had wandered quite far away.  So his dad yelled, "Collin, come here!"  But little Collin just covered his ears and continued playing.  So his dad called once more, "Collin, come here!"  But still Collin didn't come.  Finally, his dad came after him and carried him back where he would be safe.

How like Collin you and I are.  Often God speaks to us in his word and warns us to come back to him.  But we 'cover our ears' and turn away from his word.  We want our own way. We go astray like a sheep that wanders from the Shepherd.  Finally, the Lord gets our attention and sometimes has to drag us away from what we are doing wrong.  Sometimes the Lord has to punish us.

Think of It:  One Little Word: If!

Has your dad or  mom ever said to you "If you are a good boy or girl today tonight you may have some ice cream."  Did you notice the word "if"?  If you are good you'll get a reward, but if not they'll be a consequence.  God says things like that too.  He said to his people if you obey you will be happy and blessed, and if you disobey you'll be sad and punished.  Always listen for the "if" words--because that makes a difference!  

Know It: An Itty Bitty Word

There are some little words you're learning to read that I call "itty bitty" words. I know you can read some of them: it, if, is, at, in and some others as well.  Listen to this little poem.  And the next time you hear a story with "ifs" in it, or "its" in think of this.  And remember if (there it is again) you say you'll do something, you should keep your word.

An Itty Bitty Word

In the Bible there's
an itty bitty word
you mustn't miss
and that itty bitty
word is this, this,
this-- if!

In the Bible there's
an itty bitty word
you mustn't miss
and that itty bitty
word is this, this,
this--it!*

* Insert: is, in, do and so on.  List the itty bitty words on your white board and let the kids add other two letter words to the list.  Don't forget to notice which little word is in "itty bitty!"   

Hear It:  A Great Voice Story: An If and It Story!

In Deuteronomy 5, there's the story of how God's people had gathered round Mt. Horeb where they heard a great voice come to them out of the fire, the cloud, and the darkness.  There God spoke out loud ten commandments to the crowd at the bottom of the mountain. The people were scared and came near to Moses.  They said, "... we have heard his voice out of the midst of the fire: we have seen this day that God doth talk with man, and he liveth."  They continued:  "This great fire will destroy us: if we hear the voice of the Lord our God any more …..  So Moses, you 'go … near, and hear all that the LORD shall speak …; and we will hear it and do it.'"  So Moses did.  Did the people keep their word to obey?  Read more of the story in Deuteronomy 9 to find out.

Say It:  Deuteronomy 6:25 If Verse

"And it shall be for our righteousness (for our good), if we observe to do all these commandments before the Lord  our God. …."  (Point to selves.  On "if" raise voice, point up, and wag index finger.)

Notice Deuteronomy 6:3 says, "Hear therefore, O Israel, if we observe to do it (heed God's commands); that it may be well with  thee …."  The next two verses, the Shema, once again begins with "Hear. O, Israel ….!  Finally, it ends with Deut. 6:24 which says it will be for our good if we fear God, and obey all his commands.

Do It:  Bible Verse to Do List

Level:  Grades 1/2  Prep It:  Each child needs his own Bible, three highlighters including a yellow one, pen or pencil, and white board with verses on it.

Two More If Verses

Guide the children:
* Turn to Deuteronomy 28:1,2.  Darken them with a yellow highlighter.
* Find: it; ifs, and hearken; use a darker highlighter to darken them.
* By first "hearken" write "L" for listen.  By second "hearken" make "O" for obey.
* Finish this:  The word "hearken" can mean either to ------ (listen) or to ---- (obey).
* What does hearken diligently mean?  Listen carefully!
* Whose voice are they to listen to?  The LORD (note upper case letters) thy God!
* Does God speak out loud to us like he did with "his great voice?"  No, he speaks through his word the Bible.
*  What little words do you see in these verses?  it, if, of, to, do, on ….
*  How many ifs did you find?   If God's people listened and obeyed God said they would be blessed and things would go well for them..
*  What is the opposite of obey?  What would happen if they disobeyed?  See Deut. 18:15.

Learn It:  A Caleb Kid's Motto

A Caleb Kid's Motto

I want to be a Caleb kid,
dutiful, diligent, vigilant,
obedient, a writer and reciter
of God's Word!

Discuss:  What does diligent mean?  How about vigilant?  What is a reciter?

!Idea!  Use online KJV Bible both written and audio sites to view the verses too.  Vary the methods, the tools, and the ways you read the verse.  Variety is key to keeping kids interested and challenged.  Be aware K kids today are able to sit down and write in a journal the first thing.  To aid in spelling use picture dictionaries. Expect that every day they'll write or copy something into their journal. Teach discipline and teach diligence!

Make-It: Deuteronomy 6:25 "If" Verse Marker 

Prep It:  letter sheet; small scissors: blue, red, and white paper; stapler; verse strip; glue …..

Trace I and F onto blue square 2 1/2 X 2 1/2".  Use tiny scissors to cut out the I and F.  Cut a white rectangle marker about 2 1/2"X 5".  Slide smaller red square behind the blue paper so you can see the red "If" peeking through.  Staple both papers at the top of the marker so "If " section fits over paper edge.

Print Deut. 6:25; cut into strip; and glue to front of marker--some of it will be behind the blue/red "If" part.  Read verse; practice saying it.  Place in Bible.  
       
Pray It:  Some Children Pray "The Shema"

Little Jewish boys and girls first prayer is the Shema. They pray it morning and night.  They cover their eyes with their right hand.  Their prayer is from Deuteronomy 6:4-5.  Little boys and girls from Christian homes often say "The Lord's Prayer."  They scrunch up their eyes tight as they copy their parents. When my grandson was about two, as he was put into his crib, he'd say, "Let's pray Father!"

Not long ago I saw a picture of Malawian African children being taught to pray at a Christian preschool  in the most unique fashion. The little boys stood in a line in front of one teacher and the little girls in a line in front of the another teacher. They all stood still with hands folded.  Some were pinching their eyes shut.  At the head of the lines facing the children stood their teachers with folded hands leading the prayers. What an unforgettable photo!  Oh, that we might teach our children to pray in such a simple, reverent way.

Always our Heavenly Father hears the prayers of little ones. Moses instructed the Israelite parents to diligently or carefully teach the Shema to their children.  In fact the Shema was copied and placed in their Mezuzah at their door so that every time they walked by they'd remember the prayer tucked inside.

Also view this Shema picture book:  "Look Inside" the very first board book Goodnight Sh'Ma by Jacqueline Jules (2008) here:
https://www.amazon.com/Goodnight-Shma-First-Board-Books/dp/0822589451

Older Kids (Ages 8-12)

Learn It:  The Shema--Hear, O Israel!

Two of the most important verses in Deuteronomy for Jewish children are Deuteronomy 6:4,5  part of the first prayer Jewish children learn.  It's called the "Shema."  It says, "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD:  And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might."  In Hebrew Shema means "listen!"  But, as short video below tells us it means "obey" as well.

Listen to "Word Study: Shema 'Listen'" (Bible Project) here:
https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=sord+study%3a+shema+%27listen%27&docid=608039627883283935&mid=D9BEA64BFC69F70F0728D9BEA64BFC69F70F0728&view=detail&FORM=VIRE

Make-It:  The Shema Bookmark

There's an attractive image that can be made into a special marker.  Simply print it off; cut round its border; and glue it to construction paper.  There are a number of other images similar to this that can be printed and used as a marker.  Find image here:
https://www.bing.com/images/search?q=shema+images&qpvt=shema+images&FORM=IGRE

Understand It:  "Lesson From the Shema"

An article titled "Lesson From the Shema" explains that the Shema is the main prayer found in the Jewish Siddur or prayer book.  When it is recited in the synagogue, Orthodox Jews make sure to say each word carefully covering their eyes with their right hand.  It is composed of three parts: Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Deuteronomy 11:13:21, and Numbers 15:37-41.  Read more here:
https://www.jewishroots.net/library/prayer/lessons-from-shema-2.html

Note It: Jesus Quotes the Shema

In Mark 12:28-34 Jesus quoted the Shema from Deuteronomy 6. In the same passage the scribe questioning Jesus quotes from Deuteronomy 4:39.  Find this story and read it.  Over and over Jesus quoted from the Old Testament.  I don't think I've ever been more aware of this than as I studied this "book of Moses."  I have gone through every book in my Bible noting and placing a tiny check mark beside the Deuteronomy verses referenced in both testaments.  How this has blessed me, opening my eyes to how beautifully the Bible text flows together!

Be sure and teach your youngsters how to use the verse references found in the center column of their Bible or below each verse.  If you do, your child will be on the way to becoming one who studies to show themselves approved unto God, someone who digs deep into Scripture!

Find It: Shema Images

The Shema Image pages can be very useful.  If you see an image you'd like to print click on it, and print it--often they are just the right size to be a book mark or pictures for a small book.  One color book page I printed was just right for making it into an unusual marker kids could color. Select some for discussion with your children.  For every Deuteronomy topic there is usually an image page--so use them!

https://www.bing.com/images/search?view=detailV2&id=ADC2186B3457071A92DE68B7B0221E748C017913&thid=OIP.mzIsaZXLan6UMPnAGbvTsgAAAA&mediaurl=https%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-upEHm2b58sU%2FUOYtf3Azh4I%2FAAAAAAAAAHY%2F9n5SOJ2aohY%2Fs1600%2Fshema.jpeg&exph=400&expw=400&q=shema+images&selectedindex=4&qpvt=shema+images&ajaxhist=0&vt=0&eim=1,2,3,4,5,6,8,10

Remember:  You can use any part of these lessons as you like--if there are sections that the older children aren't familiar with under "Little Kids"  use that as well.

Listen to it:  Deuteronomy Warnings

Deuteronomy 18:9-14

Deuteronomy 18:9-14 are verses to darken (Highlight!)
to which one should definitely hearken;  (Listen!)
Deuteronomy 18:9-14 are verses to quote (Say them!)
with important warnings all must note!  (Remember them!)

Read these verses aloud with your children. Discuss.

Youth Sleuth:  Explore More! Define Hearken!

Hearken is an old English word.  What does it mean?  Go to an online dictionary to find out.  Hearken is like "shema ."  In what way?  In Deuteronomy there are a number of "hearken" verses you should darken or mark'em.  Search for them.  Mark 'em.

Understand It:  Do not Hearken to Diviners!

Deuteronomy 18:14 says "For these nations, which thou shalt possess, hearkened (listened) unto observers of times, and unto diviners: but as for thee (God's people), the LORD thy God hath not suffered thee so to do."  Back in Moses' day the Israelites joined with people around them listening to diviners.  Even today people still do this.

Channeling is a form of divination used in a book from the 1930s where two lady listeners took pen in hand to write down messages given by voices they heard in their heads.  Were these voices from the Lord?  No, they were from "another Jesus."  Now, this book was called God Calling.

Does the title God Calling make you think of the Jesus Calling books you've seen everywhere? How are the Jesus Calling books connected to God Calling?  In her first edition of Jesus Calling Sarah told her readers that before writing Jesus Calling she'd read God Calling.  After Sarah said she was so inspired by the book she too decided to take a pen in hand, listen, and hear 'messages from the Lord.'  Much has been written about Sarah's unbiblical messages found throughout her books and even her publisher's later removal of some of them. Recall Jesus' words in Matthew 24:4, "Take heed that no man deceive you."   For more information:  Read former New Ager's Warren Smiths books/booklets about the many problems with Jesus Calling here:  http://warrenbsmith.com/

In summary, it's not Sarah's messages we need to read, but God's words we need to heed.  Most of all we need to pick up our Bible, read it, and fill our mind with its words.  And don't forget Deuteronomy's warning not to add or subtract from it.

G Is for God Calling                 C is for Channeling

G is for God Calling                   C is for channeling
a book title to know                    a practice you'll find
from which Jesus Calling           that inserts deceiving
began to flow.                             thoughts into one's mind.

Teachers, Parents, Grandparents, YOU!

Hear It!  Give a Shout Out to Scripture Read Aloud!

In Deuteronomy, Moses gathered the people together at various times to hear the words of the Lord spoken aloud.  Therefore, take out your Bible gather your children around, and read the word aloud.  Let its sound reverberate around you.  Let its sound surround you. Let it be heard in your house!

Blessed was I to have a dad and mom who took the time every night to sit down and open the Bible and read it aloud.  It wasn't a once in awhile thing or something we did at Christmas.  It was something we did nearly every night of every single year I lived there.  What a blessed time that was.  If you've never ever done this begin now--this day-- as Moses said again and again.  Today give a shout out to reading God's Word aloud!