We live in an ever-changing world, a world filled with unpredictability. Whether relationships, the natural world, employment, health, technology, politics, or societal norms and values, everything seems to be in a state of flux. But over and above all, there is a God who is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow (Hebrews 13:8). This is bedrock assurance. God need not change by improving His character for He is already perfect in every way. He will not change by age, and grow weak or feeble of mind. His attributes stand eternal, undiminished by time. Moreover, His promises and purposes regarding His covenant people will not change. He can be depended upon forever. Our children need to know and trust in the unchangeable nature of God. Here are some discussion questions to help your children and students better understand and apply this important attribute of God to their everyday experience.
Key texts to read before discussion: Psalm 102:26-27; Malachi 3:6a; Hebrews 13:8
- Ask your child to briefly describe ways in which they have changed since they were a baby. Were these changes good or bad? Have they experienced any "bad" changes lately? How did these kinds of changes affect their ability to do certain things? Why will God never have these kinds of problems? Why is that a good thing?
- Talk about an older grandparent or great-grandparent who no longer can do certain things due to becoming weaker or less agile. Emphasize the changing nature of even the strongest of people—we all physically change and eventually grow weaker. Next, identify some attributes of God (almighty, good, holy, eternal, loving, merciful, faithful, etc.). Talk about why it is good that God never changes in each characteristic. Ask: Do you see God as someone you can always depend upon? Is it hard for you to see God as always being the best? Do you sometimes picture God as changing His mind back and forth, so that you are never quite sure what He is like and what He expects? How can you remind yourself this week that God is unchanging?
- Ask: Suppose you were playing a board game at a friend's house, but he kept changing the rules as you played the game. For example, he said that instead of moving forward 3 spaces when you rolled the dice, you have to move back 3 spaces instead. Then he decided that you need 50 points to win the game instead of 25. Why would that be frustrating? Why is it a good thing that God doesn't change His mind like that? (Give the children an example of a promise of God, such as John 3:16, and the surety of this promise for all time.)
- Ask: When you get a new pet or toy, does it make you happy? But what happens when a pet dies or the toy breaks? And what if your best friend decides to get a new best friend? Or, what if your car stops working on the way to your family's favorite vacation place? Can we really depend on these kinds of things to make us happy? Why not? Why is the unchanging God ALWAYS able to bring His people happiness? How could you trust in Him more this week, especially when other things and people change and disappoint you?
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