Use slime to teach kids that God specializes in messy situations!

Sometimes in life, it feels like we’ve been slimed!  Sometimes it’s because of decisions we make, sometimes it's from decisions others make that hurt us. Through the life of Jacob, kids will learn that when we stick to God, He can make something beautiful out of any slimy situation. 

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Slimed Children's Ministry Curriculum Lesson Overview

Memory Verse: 

“But I call out to God. And the Lord saves me.” - Psalm 55:16

Lessons:

Selfish Slime – In Jacob and Esau's culture, the “birthright” was a very important privilege, but Esau treated it like it was nothing – which would lead to big troubles down the road. Kids will learn that when we are selfish, and think only about ourselves, it can lead to a slimy situation. Genesis 25:21-34, Esau Sells His Birthright

Lying Slime – With this slime you can see through it like a window – though not too clearly. When their father was old and could not see well, Jacob tricked him into giving Jacob the blessing meant for Esau. Kids will learn that lying can lead to getting slimed, because God always sees clearly. Genesis 27:1-33, 41-45, Jacob Steals the Blessing

Seeing Past Our Slime – Jacob had tricked and deceived his brother and his father, and was running for his life. But God showed Jacob a glowing stairway to heaven, to prove that he still loved him and had a wonderful purpose for Jacob's life. Kids will learn that God has a plan no matter how much slime we may be stuck in. Genesis 28:10-22, Jacob's Dream at Bethel

Other People’s Slime – When you manipulate the slime just right it creates a surprising, popping sound. Jacob got surprised and slimed by someone else when Laban tricked him into marrying both of his daughters. Kids will learn that we can still trust God’s plan, even when we get slimed by other people. Genesis 29:1-30, Leah and Rachel

Working With Slime – Jacob used his knowledge of animals to create a good situation out of a bad one. Kids will learn that God can help us change a slimy situation into an opportunity for good. Genesis 30:25-31:3, Jacob Flourishes

Becoming Slime Proof – If you add more and more liquid starch to your slime it will eventually harden and become immovable. On the night before his reunion with his brother Esau, Jacob found himself in a hard situation, but Jacob would not be moved. Kids will learn that by persevering through slimy situations and continuing to trust God no matter what, we can become stronger. Genesis 32:13-31, Jacob Wrestles with God

Helping Others Out of Slime – Stick a straw into your slime and blow to create giant slime bubbles. Jacob hoped to repair his relationship with Esau, but knew if Esau was still angry, his bubble of hope would burst. Kids will learn that we should work to have a good relationship with others, and should seek God's help to repair any relationships that have been slimed. Genesis 33:1-11, Jacob and Esau Reunite

Slimy Masterpiece – Through all the slime of Jacob's life – whether from his trickery or others tricking him – God made his life beautiful in the end, with a large family and the promise of becoming a great nation. Kids will learn that if we trust God no matter what, He can forgive us for slimy situations we’ve created and help us out of slimy situations created by others. Genesis 35:1-15, 23-29, God's Covenant and Blessing with Jacob