What Did Jesus Do?

I got this new bracelet. (Show it to kids, and then put it on.) It says “WWJD,” which stands for “What would Jesus do?” These used to be popular, and today some people are wearing them again. (Invite kids to tell whether they’ve seen anyone wearing them.) We can use this bracelet as a reminder to be like Jesus. 

• So what kinds of things have you known Jesus to do that you could follow?

• Why might kids want a reminder like this throughout their days?

Kids can be tempted to do all kinds of things at school, in their neighborhoods, and even at home…things that aren’t God-honoring or what’s best for us, right? Well, Jesus knows what it’s like to be tempted, too. The Bible tells about a time Jesus went out into the wilderness for 40 days to be by Himself. God’s Spirit led Him out there to fast and pray. (Invite kids to tell about anyone they know who has fasted, or share your own story.)

During that time God’s enemy, Satan came and tempted Jesus to do some things Jesus knew weren’t right. But just because Jesus is God and He’s powerful, that doesn’t mean the things Satan suggested weren’t tempting. Like first, Satan suggested Jesus turn stones into bread that Jesus could eat. (Have kids close their eyes for a moment and imagine what it might  be like for them to not eat or drink anything for 40 days, and how that might feel. After a minute, invite them to reflect on their thoughts.)

Jesus could have easily done what Satan suggested, but He didn't. Instead, He answered, "It is written, 'Man does not live by bread alone.' "

Then Satan took Jesus up to a high place and showed Him the worldly kingdoms below. He said, "All of this belongs to me. If You will bow down and worship me, I will give it to You."

• Worship can mean “make more important than God”; so what kinds of things are you sometimes tempted to make more important than God? 

Here’s what Jesus answered to Satan’s temptation: "It is written, 'Worship the Lord your God and serve Him only.' "

Next, Satan took Jesus to Jerusalem and led Him up to the highest point on the temple. He said to Jesus, "If You are the Son of God, throw Yourself down from here. God will send His angels to rescue You." (Lead kids in a vote: Who thinks God could keep Jesus from harm if He did jump off that temple.)

Of course God could keep Jesus safe, but Jesus quoted the Scripture, " 'Do not put the Lord your God to the test.' "

Do you know what the devil did? He gave up! He said, "I'll come back and try another day."

The next time the devil tempts you to do something wrong, look in the Bible and see what the Bible says. Then...Do What Jesus Did...answer Satan with Scripture!

Dear God, help us use Your word and follow Jesus’ example in our lives. In Jesus’ name, amen.