Rejoice in the Lord Always • Encouragement

What is happening in this story?

Paul wrote to the church in Philippi to encourage them to be united and to stand firm in the Lord. He included an admonition to two women, Syntyche and Euodia, to be of one mind. It’s clear that these women were co-workers in spreading the gospel, fellow missionaries and preachers with Paul. In these words to his beloved church members, Paul also reminded them to rejoice in the Lord always, and he showed that there are many ways to encourage others.
 

Why does this story matter for kids?

Kids can think of this letter as a “pep talk” from a coach or parent. This text can bring to mind images of families in all their relational richness, in which parents and siblings may argue over small stuff but still love each other deeply. In the end, all families, including church families, can come together to encourage each other and rejoice in God.

What is the lectionary connection?

Just as this letter was an encouragement to the early church, it continues to encourage the church today. The Season after Pentecost is a wonderful time to encourage one another in the Lord.

 

WATCH

THE VIDEO

  • KIDS AGED 10 AND YOUNGER

Let’s all sit down to enjoy the video together today. Someone in the video is very upset. Watch closely to see what is making her worry.

Watch the video below:

 

Ask kids these questions about the video:

  • Why was Clara so upset?

  • What did P.A.T. the robot tell her to help her feel better?

  • What are some things that you worry about?

  • How would praying to God help you worry less?

 
 

  • KIDS AGED 11 AND OLDER

Sometimes when people get together, whether it’s at home, at school, or at church, they have disagreements. Let’s see how the Whirl kids handle a decision they need to make together.

Watch the video below:

 

Ask kids these questions about the video:

  • The kids gathered in the church for a lock-in. What is that?

  • What caused their big argument?

  • Have you ever had a sleepover? Did everything go exactly as planned? Why or why not?

  • How do you react when someone makes a choice you wouldn’t make?

  • What happens when people don’t get along?

 

read

the bible story

Philippians 4:1-9

This week we will read the epistle for this Sunday. Paul was writing a letter to his friends in the church in Philippi. He had heard they were having some trouble getting along. This letter has three parts. First, Paul reminds his friends to try to get along. Then he tells them to rejoice and be happy. Finally, he challenges them to focus on good things.

Ask these questions after you read the story:

  • What does Paul mean when he tells his friends, Euodia and Syntyche, to “be of the same mind”? Do they have to think exactly alike?

  • Do you agree with everything your friends think or say?

  • The peace of God can “guard our hearts and minds.” Are there times when you think you need guarding?

  • What is a way we can show gentleness?

wrap up with

review + prayer

When Paul wrote to his beloved church members, he told them there were many ways they could encourage each other. In his long list of “whatevers,” he reminded them to think of all things good. How can you focus on people and things that encourage you?

Pray together:

Oh Lord, getting along isn’t easy. Your Spirit guides us to the truth in Jesus’ love so we can encourage others as we all try to do what is right. Amen.

try one or two

Follow-up activities

This week’s theme is ENCOURAGEMENT. Rejoice in the Lord always! Part of living out our faith is rejoicing together and encouraging one another. This week, try these ways to show encouragement.

  • Encouraging Quotes

    Search online for quotes of encouragement. When you find quotes that you like, take photos or draw designs to go with them. Adults can post them on social media or email them to someone your family knows who might need encouragement.

  • Lots of Learning

    Philippians 4:9 says, “Keep on doing on the things that you have learned . . . and the God of peace will be with you.” During a family meal this week, go around the table and name one thing you have learned from church or the Bible. How long can you keep the circle going? How many things can your family name?

  • eu-who?

    Philippians 4:2 names two women who were working for the early church—Euodia and Syntyche. Think of some of the women who work in your church as volunteers or staff members. Plan some ways you can encourage them.

This week, our family is praying for:

Season of PentecostSalt 'n Light Kids