Welcome to our third day of Water Wonders: A Virtual Family Vacation Bible School! Today we will dive into the story of “Jonah, a Fish, and a Worm.”
The Big Idea: When God talks, we should listen. He always knows best–even when we don’t agree.
The Story: Jonah, a Fish, and a Worm
Today’s story is the book of Jonah. You may want to watch or read a synopsis, but over time, please go back and read the entire thing from the Bible. It’s only 4 short chapters. There is nothing like hearing the word straight from the Bible
You may be familiar with the story of Jonah, but are you familiar with the story of the worm? Click To TweetFor the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12 ESV
Though many of you may be familiar with the story of Jonah, are you familiar with the story of the worm? I didn’t know that part until I was older. Make sure to read Jonah 4. It really drives the point home. To really understand, you need to read the chapter in it’s entirety.
Now the Lord God appointed a plant and made it come up over Jonah, that it might be a shade over his head, to save him from his discomfort. So Jonah was exceedingly glad because of the plant. 7 But when dawn came up the next day, God appointed a worm that attacked the plant, so that it withered.” Jonah 4:6 ESV
Snack or Mealtime
Since Jonah is a little bit of a longer story that you might want to read straight from the Bible, it would be a great time let your kids snack while they listen. Enjoy a snack of goldfish crackers and gummy worms. You could also have some worm punch. If you want to coordinate with meal time, eat a meal of spaghetti “worms.” For a fun activity, plan ahead and make these worm popsicles for dessert.
Worship
What celebration of Jonah would be complete without some Veggie Tales? This one, “Jonah Was a Prophet,” is just too good to pass up! If you have time, you might want to watch the whole movie, Jonah: A VeggieTales Movie. You could even set it up as a family movie night!
Jonah, a Fish, and a Worm Crafts
- Pipe Cleaner Worm on a Twig: To help you remember the worm eating the tree, try this craft. Wrap a pipe cleaner around a twig, then glue on a pompom head and google eyes. Voila!
- Fish Tail Bookmark: Draw a fish tale and stick it in the book of Jonah in your Bible to mark the story.
Jonah, a Fish, and a Worm Activities
In this story, the worm shines as the superstar, teaching Jonah the lesson that God is in control. You may think the big fish taught him that, but the worm had to remind him. That is why our activities today center around the worm…
- Make a Worm Hotel: Just as a worm is the star of our story, worms can be the star of gardens too. Fill a 2 liter with dirt and watch how they tunnel through.
- Compare Plants: Take 2 similar plants and put a few worms in one of the pot and not the other. Watch over time and see which plant grows better.
- For more activities, check out my Jonah Pinterest board.
Prayer Time
Spend time praying for people and countries that remind you of Nineveh, that currently do not follow God. If you feel your children are mature enough, you could discuss what is going on in our own country right now. Pray for peace and revival!
Join us for the other days of Water Wonders…
Did you know about the story of the worm? What have you learned from the story of Jonah, a Fish, and a Worm?
Jessica says
What a great take on the story of Jonah. I admit, I’ve never actually focused on the worm. Thanks for changing the way I look at this story and the reminder that God is always in control.
admin says
I’m glad you enjoyed it and got to experience something in a new way. It is so refreshing to know that God is in control so we don’t have to be!
Kay says
This is so fun! Thanks for sharing this!
Kay recently posted…How Much Do You Love God?
angie says
love how detailed the lesson is and the worm is something i never knew about
angie recently posted…National French Fries Day
Linda says
You have such great ideas. I have added so many to our everyday learning. Thanks for sharing!
admin says
That is the sweetest compliment! Thank you for the encouragement. I hope your kids are falling in love with Jesus!
Andrea says
I saw the Jonah movie when it first came out a few years ago – I think I was the only grownup there 🙂
Andrea recently posted…Love One Another (Hey, If God’s Word Says It….)
Pamela says
I like the truth in this story. And I really want to make a worm hotel. Do you think if I made one with a grandchild that nobody would know I was actually making it for myself? Such cute activities.
Pamela recently posted…Pamela’s Daybook: July 13th
Tiffani says
This is so true. I don’t think I have ever even read about the worm. I guess the fish was bigger so that qualifies him for more preaching topics. I love the VBS activity!
Tiffani recently posted…Know The Difference- Part II
Kristi says
I love how you focused on the lesson learned from the worm! We often forget that part but it is a lesson we need to take to heart too!
Kristi recently posted…Jesus Walks on Water – Water Wonders
jasmine says
Cute! I bet kids enjoy this too
jasmine recently posted…At The Moment