Kids and Lying

Yesterday in Creek Kids, our sermon was from Genesis 27 and 28, Jacob Lied and Had to Run. You all know the story; Jacob pretends to be his older brother Esau to trick his ailing father, Isaac, into granting him the family blessing. The kids listened with wide eyes as I told the story of lying and how even Jacob's mother was involved in the scheme. Jacob's consequence of sin was pretty drastic, he had to run for his life when his brother discovered the truth. I told the kids that when they lie, they may not have to run for their lives, but we all have consequences and it makes God so sad when we lie. During the challenge time after the sermon, several kids raised their hands when I asked who needed help with this sin and who wanted to ask for forgiveness. I could tell a couple of them were truly convicted and then repentant. It was beautiful to watch their faces as they received from God, sadness turning to joy and peace.

I've known very young kids who have been caught lying. You may ask how little kids learn to lie. Most of them don't need to be taught, it is in our sin nature. We may even be tempted to think it is cute or funny when our kids come up with some grand story or excuse, but we must be ready to instruct and help them to realize the truth is ALWAYS the best way. I assured the kids that when they make a mistake God still and always will love them but they must make it right with the Lord. Mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, or even Pastor Lori cannot do it for them, they must ask to be forgiven themselves. Of course we can help them know how, but the younger they learn how to ask for forgiveness, the better their walk with Jesus will be. I'd love to hear if any of your kids talked about the sermon, it's always interesting to hear their slant and what spoke to them.