FunFaith™ Moments for Families

Household Gladiators

Use this fun activity to help your family discover strength in the truth that Jesus helps them to overcome the world.

Scripture: John 16:33
Equipment: Living room furniture, a blindfold, a big bowl of popcorn, and a Bible

Before You Begin

While family members are in another room in the house, rearrange the living room furniture into a big obstacle course of couches, chairs, and tables. (Be sure to put any breakable or dangerous items off to the side.)

The FunFaith Moment

Next, gather everyone and show off your new obstacle course! One by one, blindfold each family member and tell them you are going to lead them through the obstacle course to their popcorn reward. The only catch is that you will be guiding them only by voice from across the room. (No touching allowed!) Next, set them on their way.

After the first person's turn, it may be fun to remove his or her blindfold and together rearrange the furniture again. See who follows instructions most easily, and who has the most difficult time.

Discovery

After everyone has braved the course, serve the popcorn, read John 16:33, and discuss these questions:

• How did you feel when you went through the obstacle course? What was the hardest part of the obstacle course? Why?

• What are some obstacles you've experienced as one of God's followers (what makes it hard for you to follow God)?

• How is this obstacle course like going through each day as one of God's followers?

• How do you think Jesus' disciples felt when they encountered obstacles to serving God? Why do you think Jesus spoke these words from John 16:33 to them just before he was crucified?

• What do you do when you face a tough situation? How can John 16:33 encourage you in those situations?

Prayer

Clear a path down the center of the obstacle course. Have everyone hold hands and walk slowly down the path. As you walk, pray a prayer like this: "Lord, it's encouraging to know that you care about our journey through this life. As we face the many obstacles that are a part of living, help us to keep our sights focused on you so that we may walk safely through to the end. In Jesus' name, amen."

--Mike & Amy Nappa

Note: This FunFaith moment is adapted from 52 Fun Family Devotions by Mike and Amy Nappa copyright © 1994 Augsburg Books. Reproduced by special permission of Augsburg Fortress Publishers. No further reproduction permitted without the written consent of Augsburg Fortress.

52 Fun Family Devotions by Mike & Amy Nappa (Augsburg Books)