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Joyfulness Activity

Introduction:This month we are asking the Lord to develop joyfulness in our lives. What a privilege to hear Him and allow Him to change us into the image of His Son! Often it’s the pressures of life that make us realize, appreciate, and rejoice in the presence and sufficiency of Christ. Today we are going to discuss the difference between joy and happiness and ask for the joy of God’s presence in our lives.

Supplies: Wooden blocks, tin foil, metal spoons.

Activity Instructions:Give each child two pieces of foil and a wooden block. Have them wrap one piece of foil around the block. Have them create a hollow shell with the other piece of tin foil. It looks like something is inside both pieces of foil, but one contains a block and the other is empty.

Tell the children that the foil-wrapped block represents “Joy” and the empty foil represents “Happiness.” As long as there is no pressure, they both look the same. Have each child take a spoon and repeatedly hit both pieces of foil. “Joy” does not collapse;

it conforms to the shape of the block. However, “Happiness” is quickly smashed flat.

When we have a strong relationship with God within us, the resulting joy holds up under pressure and

sustains us. However, if we only have happiness from outward possessions and circumstances,

it will collapse when pressures come. Ask the children, “Do you have joy or happiness?” Dis-cuss how to enjoy the presence of the Lord through prayer and Bible reading.

Joy vs. Happiness