"Daniel and the Scary Sleepover"

November - Lesson 3

​I welcome you back for the last of our three lessons this month about
the story, “Daniel and the Scary Sleepover”, found on pages 152-159 of The
Jesus Storybook Bible by Sally Lloyd-Jones.
Children: Please read this exciting story out loud, maybe to a younger
brother or sister, or to yourself. Could you feel the lions’ breath on your
face, as Daniel did? Are you aware of their eyes staring at you?
In last month’s story, we learned about the Ten Commandments (“Ten
Ways to Be Perfect”). Can you tell me what commandment was broken by the
people who worked alongside Daniel that got Daniel into trouble? If you
think it was the tenth commandment, you are correct! Jealousy!
Daniel was a really smart man who worked very hard at any job he had,
and he always impressed his many bosses and kings with the great care he
took with his work. He was frequently promoted to a higher level job, and
the evil people who worked alongside Daniel could not or would not work as
hard. They were so jealous that they lied about Daniel to the King. They
secretly wanted to turn Daniel into lion food!
We learn from Daniel that we need to always remember to pray, that God
can protect us from anything, and that in good and bad times God is with us!
Please feel free to share your thoughts or questions with Pastor Steve
and others who frequent this blog.
Adults: The Biblical reference for our story is Daniel 6.
Throughout the Bible, there are many examples of how God protects his
people, even when situations seem hopeless. The story of Daniel shows that
God is always in control. He had a special plan for Daniel, as he does for each
of us.
Daniel was firm in his beliefs. He didn’t stop following God’s law, even
though he knew it would get him in trouble. He needed to be brave and
courageous and trust that God would protect him even when things seemed
terrible.

Throughout your life, there will be times when things are difficult. You
might feel afraid or alone, but God promises to always be with you and to
protect you. This doesn’t mean that your life will always go smoothly or that
bad things won’t happen, however God does promise to always be with you
and to use all things (both the good AND the bad) for good in your life.
Final note: After Daniel escaped any harm from the lions, King Darius
made a proclamation to “all peoples, nations, and languages” that everyone in
his dominion must “tremble and fear before Daniel’s God” (6:25–27).
This Week’s Prayer: God, I know that I can talk to You anytime,
anywhere, and about anything! Amen
This concludes this month’s study of Daniel. I hope you can gather with us
this coming Sunday for Sunday School at 11 am right after services for a
snack, a lesson discussion, and a fun craft.
In prayer,
Margo Greer