Dawn Renee Stephens's Blog

There is more to the definition of the Beatitudes than you might think. By sharing lessons, activities, and children’s books, we’ve found ways to explain better and teach the Beatitudes. Or, as Little Pot refers to them, The Bee Attitudes. Here’s a video reviewing our definition of the Beatitudes.

Reflecting on the past eight weeks and each lesson, I’ve discovered a powerful connection between the Beatitudes and Little Pot’s fruit-bearing process. I did not expect to write another post about the Beatitudes. However, as I finished making the video above, I realized that within the definition of the Beatitudes, Jesus presented them in a significant order. Their arrangement aligns remarkably well with how the Holy Spirit produces His fruit through us.

To review …

This summer, we’ve shared eight lessons to help explain the definition of the Beatitudes. You can click on each to read that specific lesson.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in Spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.Little Pot’s fruit-bearing journey

We’ve also referred to Little Pot’s fruit-bearing journey. How the Potter produces fruit inside Little Pot connects to how God cultivates the fruit of the Spirit in us. You can sign up to learn more about that process here:

Or you can read about each step of the fruit-bearing cycle by clicking on the steps below.

Step 1: Containing HumilityStep 2: Planting the Right SeedsStep 3: Stemming IntegrityStep 4: Leafing RelationshipsStep 5: Blooming KnowledgeStep 6: Bearing Fruit of the Spirit

In this article, I will connect how the definition of the Beatitudes connects to the steps in the fruit-bearing cycle. I was amazed to see their similarities and how the order Jesus gave them was intentional.

Growing the fruit of the Spirit follows the same order as the Beatitudes.Step 1. Poor in spirit, Mourning, and Containing Humility

The video above touches on this idea. It occurred to me, however, that Jesus may have had a reason for putting this as the first blessing. If you follow Little Pot’s fruit-bearing process, you know it begins with the Humus soil and the idea that we are to be humble. This idea is significant in how we are to receive and follow Christ. I’ve spent much time sharing the plan of salvation with children, and I often see kids want to be “saved” for prideful reasons.

I’ll admit that when I was six, I said “the sinner’s prayer,” hoping to earn a prize from the treasure box in Sunday School. Consequently, I was not saved that day. Several years later, God humbled me, and I realized how much I needed Him in my life. Humus is dirt that includes manure and dead things. Likewise, being humble or poor in spirit can feel like sh*t. It also can only happen when we die to ourselves. You can read more about those connections in this lesson with Little Pot.

Step 2. Mourning Leads to Planting God’s Word

Within Little Pot’s Humus soil, a seed is planted. The seed represents God’s Word (See Luke 8:11). Similarly, we should plant God’s word in our humble hearts. You can read more about this connection here.

In our humility, we become aware of our sins. This leads to mourning. God’s word explains and comforts our mourning. As Romans 7:24 reads, “Oh, what a miserable person I am! Who will free me from this life dominated by sin and death?” This leads us to be comforted by Christ because He is the only one who can free us from our sins. See Romans 7:25.

Definition of the Beatitudes: Meekness, Obedience, and Integrity

The third step for Little Pot is that a straight and upright stem grows. That stem symbolizes our integrity because Proverbs describes a person of integrity as “straight” and “upright.” Here is the link explaining this connection. In addition, good integrity involves an attitude of meekness and obedience. Essentially, the next Beatitude, Blessed are the meek, is all about obedience. Once we are humble and begin to study God’s Word, the next step is to obey it.

Step 4. A Hunger and Thirst for Right Relationships Full of Mercy

The following two Beatitudes are to hunger, thirst for righteousness, and be merciful. Interestingly, the next step in Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle is when the stem produces leaves. We’ve taught that the leaves represent healthy relationships because, like a leaf using light to feed the plant (Photosynthesis), a friend should “feed” you with the light of Christ. The idea that leaves hunger and thirst for light and water is how we need to be when seeking righteousness. Also, showing mercy is what a good friend does.

As I thought about the order of the Beatitudes, I noticed that once we are humble, sorry for our sins, and obedient to God’s Word, the following practical idea would be to seek righteousness and show mercy to others.

Definition of the Beatitudes and a Pure Heart that Blooms Knowledge

Moving on, Little Pot blooms a flower. The flower represents how we bloom knowledge. Read about that step here. Eventually, that flower will turn to fruit. But first, let’s consider what knowledge will help sprout the fruit that comes from the Holy Spirit. Because, frankly, at this point, Little Pot could still produce bad fruit.

Similarly, we can produce the fruit of envy, jealousy, or strife if we do not keep our hearts and minds pure. That’s why the next Beatitude, “Blessed are the Pure in Heart,” connects to this step of the fruit-bearing process. There is a great deal of knowledge to learn in our world. However, if we approach gaining new information apart from our faith in God, that new knowledge can produce sin instead of the fruit of the Spirit.The Beatitudes line up perfectly with how the fruit of the Spirit can be grown through us.Making Peace

The next Beatitude is “Blessed are the Peacemakers”. Peace is found within the fruit of the Spirit. Therefore, making peace is equivalent to Little Pot’s next step when the flower turns into a fruit. We sometimes think of the fruit of the Spirit as nine different fruits. However, the nine characteristics of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control are intertwined. In other words, if we are peacemakers, we also produce the other eight qualities.

The final Beatitude is about being persecuted when we do what is right and live as fruit-bearers. It makes sense that this is the final Beatitude because to withstand persecution, we need to be able to grow the fruit of the Spirit consistently. In future posts, we will learn more about how to withstand persecution as a fruit-bearing vessel. Please consider following this blog and signing up below for a copy of the Beatitude Song and the seven steps to becoming a fruit pot. Doing so will add you to our email list, and each week, you’ll receive a short, fruitful Friday email from Little Pot. In conclusion, comment and let me know if you learned a lot from Little Pot in this post.

A Song about the Definition of the Beatitudes.

The song that Little Pot sings in the video above will help you to remember and learn the 8 Beatitudes. You can download a free copy of the music. Each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Growing Fruit of the Spirit

We can be a peacemaker when the Holy Spirit grows peace through us. Little Pot discovers that it is a vessel created to be a fruit pot. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Learn how the Potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post Definition of the Beatitudes and How to Fulfill the Fruit of the Spirit appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

8 Beatitudes are described in Matthew chapter five. Jesus begins the Sermon on the Mount with eight blessings. They are known as the Beatitudes. However, they can be hard to understand, especially for children. Consequently, we’ve been describing each Beatitude and learning how to integrate it using a children’s book. This week is our final week, and we will look at the 8th bee’s attitude of boldness and bravery because we are blessed when persecuted for righteousness.

Among the 8 Beatitudes, Jesus said, “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven.” Of the 8 Beatitudes, this final blessing can be confusing for children. Who wants to be persecuted? Jesus knew that not everyone would agree with Him. He also wanted us to know that if we are bold and brave enough to stand up for Him, others might not agree. They may even dislike us or not accept us because we believe in God. Therefore, using a children’s book, this article will explore ways to integrate bravery and boldness for God.

Little Pot’s fruit-bearing journey

The 8 Beatitudes are seen within the fruit the Holy Spirit produces in our lives. Welcome to Little Pot’s fruit-bearing journey. Little Pot is a character in the children’s books about a potter and the different vessels he creates. It is a vessel that holds many additional items for the Potter. As it does, it tries to discover its purpose. Eventually, Little Pot learns it is a fruit pot, and the Potter can grow his fruit inside it. Therefore, Little Pot is a fruit-bearing vessel created by the Potter. Likewise, Little Pot’s process to grow strawberries mirrors how our creator produces the fruit of the Spirit through us. You can sign up to learn more about that process here:

A part of the process includes pollination. That sometimes happens with the help of bees. Consequently, Little Pot refers to the 8 Beatitude blessings as “Bee Attitudes.” Alongside Little Pot, we explore these attitudes, examine their meanings, and discuss practical ways to integrate them into different subjects using children’s books. Let’s join in and learn a lot from Little Pot as we explore the 8 Beatitudes:

“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven.”

Matthew 5:10

Lessons on the 8 Beatitudes

Likewise, the eight lessons full of Beatitude activities are listed below. Click on each to read that specific lesson.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in Spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.

Go here if you haven’t read Little Pot’s introduction to the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.

The 8th bee is bold and brave.Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness, for they shall inherit the kingdom of God.

Persecuted is a strong word. I can think of times when others have disagreed with me, and there was even a time when I was not chosen for a job because the employer visited this website and felt I took too strong of a stand for Christ. However, when I think about how Jesus suffered and even how his disciples were persecuted, my “sufferings” are laughable. Consequently, I usually feel like this blessing is not for me. That is until Ephesians 1:11-14 tells me my inheritance is the sum of all God has promised me in salvation.

Inheriting the Kingdom of God begins with the gift of salvation. It’s not just a future place we go to when we die. As discussed in the previous Beatitudes, accepting Christ’s death, burial, and resurrection as payment for our sins makes us His child. His suffering allows us to inherit the Kingdom of God. He was brave and bold enough to undergo that persecution. Therefore, we need to have a bold and courageous attitude where we stand up for Him.

Blessed are those Persecuted. Bee bold and brave for God.

As I searched for a book about bravery and boldness, I thought presenting children with real-life examples would be necessary. One of my favorite authors is Dandi Daley Mackall. I love how her children’s books rhyme. In her book Off to Plymouth Rock, she tells the story of the brave and bold pilgrims. Begin your activities by reading the book.

If you are curious about the real story of Thanksgiving, click here.

Introduction: Today, we will take a historical adventure and learn about the Pilgrim’s long voyage to America.

After reading the story, use the following ideas to extend the learning across other subjects.

Bible Integration:

Use the book to help children understand the importance of staying faithful and enduring the “race” of their Christian lives. It is essential to stand up for Jesus amongst those surrounding us.

“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.”

Hebrews 12:1

Language Arts Integration

See how many rhyming words you can find in the story.

sea – fleeship – tripteams – dreamsahoy – boyshare – prayerpounding – aboundingpraying – stayinghoeing – growingcherries – berriesveering – clearingsplashing – flashinggrieving – believingReading/Writing Integration

Pretend you are a pilgrim and write a story about your journey. Make sure you include complex problems that require your characters to be bold and brave. Create a story map using a picture of a ship and its sails to plan your story.

Create your story map using a ship.Math Integration and Social Studies Integration

Students can learn to measure distance using miles. Using a map or globe, find the approximate miles the Pilgrims would have traveled. Compare that distance to how far other places they are familiar with would be. How far did they go if they traveled to another state or country? Was it longer or shorter than the Pilgrims traveled?

A Song for the 8 Beatitudes.

We’ve created a song to help us remember and learn the 8 Beatitudes. You can download a free copy of the music. Each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Growing Peace and the Fruit of the Spirit

We can be a peacemaker when the Holy Spirit grows peace through us. Little Pot discovers that it is a vessel created to be a fruit pot. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Learn how the Potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post 8 Beatitudes and a Look at a Brave and Bold Bee’s Attitude appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

Blessed are the Peacemakers. In today’s fast-paced and often chaotic world, finding moments of peace is more important than ever. And what better way to cultivate peace than by instilling its values in our children? Children’s books have long been a powerful tool for teaching important life lessons, and integrating the Beatitudes – the eight blessings found in the Sermon on the Mount – into these stories can have a profound impact.

Among the Beatitudes, Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.” Using a children’s book, this article will explore seven useful ways to integrate peace in different subjects. From fostering empathy and kindness to promoting forgiveness and understanding, these activities will help children develop a deeper understanding of peace and equip them with valuable skills for navigating the complexities of life. So, whether you’re a parent, teacher, or simply someone passionate about nurturing peaceful minds, join us as we uncover the transformative power of children’s literature and the timeless wisdom of the Beatitudes.

Read more: 7 Useful Ways to Integrate Peace Using Children’s Books and the Beatitudes.Little Pot’s fruit-bearing journey

Peace is a part of the fruit that the Holy Spirit produces in our lives. Welcome to Little Pot‘s fruit-bearing journey. Little Pot is a character in the children’s books about Potter and the different vessels he creates. It is a vessel that holds many additional items for the Potter. As it does, it tries to discover its purpose. Eventually, Little Pot learns it is a fruit pot, and the Potter can grow his fruit inside it. Therefore, Little Pot is a fruit-bearing vessel created by the Potter. Likewise, Little Pot’s process to grow strawberries mirrors how our creator produces the fruit of the Spirit through us. You can sign up to learn more about that process here:

A part of the process includes pollination. That sometimes happens with the help of bees. Consequently, Little Pot refers to the 8 Beatitude blessings as “Bee Attitudes.” Alongside Little Pot, we explore these attitudes, examine their meanings, and discuss practical ways to integrate them into different subjects using children’s books. Let’s join in and learn a lot from Little Pot as we explore the sixth Beatitude:

“Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the children of God.”

Matthew 5:9

Lessons on the 8 BeatitudesLittle Pot’s eight lessons to teach the Beatitudes.

Likewise, the eight lessons full of Beatitude activities are listed below. Click on each to read that specific lesson.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in Spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.

Go here if you haven’t read Little Pot’s introduction to the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.

Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they shall…

Making peace requires us to know the peace Jesus Christ gave us by dying on the cross and what He has to offer others. God offers us peace, and once we accept it and live peaceably in Him, we can help others to obtain peace.

The following children’s book, “Shaoey and Dot,” will tell the story of a baby being adopted. We do not always think of peace when babies cry. Shaoey needs a family. This story will connect our adoption in Christ, making us His children and bringing peace to each of us.

Dot is a ladybug who discovers an orphan baby in China. When Dot starts to fly away, she hears the baby cry and decides to stay with the child. Dot and the baby journey to the States and are adopted by a family. When the baby, now named Shaoey, is with a family, she is at peace and ceases to cry. Jesus wants us to be a part of HIs family too. He died for our sins, rose again, and will adopt us when we receive Him as our Lord and Savior.

Blessed are the peacemakers. This bee’s attitude is to be the one for peace and fun!Blessed are the Peacemakers. Bee the one for peace and fun.

Introduction: Did you ever imagine you were a little bug who could hide in places? You could journey with people; they wouldn’t even know you were there. Today we are going to read about a tiny ladybug named Dopt. She makes a very special friend. Let’s read together and see who Dot meets.

After reading the story, use the following ideas to extend the learning across other subjects.

1. Bible Integration:

Children will learn they were created for a special purpose, just as God had a special plan for Shaoey.

“ I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.”

Psalm 139:14

2. Language Arts Integration

Dot is a ladybug. We put “dots” that are called periods at the end of sentences. Why? Sometimes we put a question mark or an exclamation mark. Give the students a list of sentences, and together, put the correct punctuation at the end of each.

The children’s book, “Shaoey and Dot,” helps to explain how we can be peacemakers. 3. Reading/Writing Integration

After reading the story, have the students imagine they are a bug. Create a story about themselves from the perspective of a small bug. They can write about something that happened to them as a baby or a recent event.

Using a stuffed ladybug, have the toy travel home with different children. Then have each child write in a journal about the adventures the ladybug experienced at their house. The journal entry should be written as if the ladybug is talking.

4. Math Integration

Using several ladybug patterns, draw a different amount of spots on each. Have students count, add, subtract, or multiply the spots on each.

5. Social Studies Integration

Dot and Shaoey come from China. Find China on a map. Then, discuss the pictures from the book and learn certain characteristics about the landscape and people who live in China. Research the country for further information. Have them map how far Shaoey and Dot traveled to be with their new family in America. What other places could they visit along the way?

6. Science Integration

Dot wears six different shoes on her feet. Use pairs of their shoes to experiment with different combinations a six-legged ladybug could wear. How many combinations can be created?

7. Art/Drama

Use a large sheet of yellow paper. Cut the paper into a circle. Then cut a slit in the circle from the edge to the center point. Overlap the cut edges, creating a hat like Dot wore in the book. Each child can decorate their hat to describe themselves and what makes them a special part of God’s family. To secure the hat, use string across the top point, thread through two holes, and tie under the chin. Wear the hats as they sing the Beatitudes song.

A Beatitudes Song. (Blessed are the Peacemakers)

We’ve created a song to help us remember and learn the 8 Beatitudes. You can download a free copy of the song. Each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Growing Peace and the Fruit of the Spirit

We can be a peacemaker when the Holy Spirit grows peace through us. Little Pot discovers that it is a vessel created to be a fruit pot. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Learn how the Potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post 7 Useful Ways to Integrate Peace Using Children’s Books and the Beatitudes. appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

Maintaining a pure heart can seem elusive in a world of distractions and noise. Yet, Little Pot’s Beatitudes Prayer and activities can help to renew our minds and hearts. Therefore, in this Beatitudes Prayer and children’s book lesson, we can align our hearts and attitudes, creating a sacred space for the Holy Spirit to grow His fruit through us.

Jesus said that those who are pure in heart are blessed. But what does it mean to have a pure heart? It goes beyond innocence or naivety; it encompasses being free from malice, deceit, and sinfulness. A pure heart allows us to love unconditionally and connect with our creator and others. Let’s join Little Pot, a fruit-bearing vessel created by the Potter, and discover how a Beatitudes Prayer and Children’s book lesson can guide us toward the blessings of a pure heart. The bees pollinating the flowers growing from Little Pot have the right attitudes. Likewise, the sixth bee’s attitude will allow us to dive deep into the essence of a pure heart and discover the transformative power of a Beatitudes Prayer.

Read more: How to have an attitude pure in heart. A Beatitudes Prayer and Lesson.Little Pot’s fruit-bearing journey

Welcome to Little Pot‘s fruit-bearing journey. Little Pot is a character in the children’s books about Potter and the different vessels he creates. It is a vessel that holds many additional items for the Potter. As it does, it tries to discover its purpose. Eventually, Little Pot learns it is a fruit pot, and the Potter can grow his fruit inside it. Therefore, Little Pot is a fruit-bearing vessel created by the Potter. Likewise, Little Pot’s process to grow strawberries mirrors how our creator produces the fruit of the Spirit through us. You can sign up to learn more about that process here:

A part of the process includes pollination. That sometimes happens with the help of bees. Consequently, Little Pot refers to the 8 Beatitude blessings as “Bee Attitudes.” Alongside Little Pot, we explore these attitudes, examine their meanings, and discuss practical ways to integrate them into different subjects using children’s books. Let’s join in and learn a lot from Little Pot as we explore the sixth Beatitude:

“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”

Matthew 5:8

Lessons on the 8 BeatitudesLittle Pot’s eight lessons to teach the Beatitudes.

Likewise, the eight lessons full of Beatitude activities are listed below. Click on each to read that specific lesson.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in Spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.

Go here if you haven’t read Little Pot’s introduction to the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.

Blessed are the Pure in Heart

A pure heart is clean. It is without sin. If we invite Jesus into our hearts, He will clean out the sin in our lives. We must also work to keep sin out of our lives. We do this by setting ourselves apart. As children of God, we are set apart and special. We are princes and princesses because Christ is King, and we are His children. Therefore, we have the heart of a princess (or a prince). We have a responsibility to stay clean and pure.

The following children’s books illustrate this. In Gigi, God’s Little Princess by Sheila Walsh, Gigi believes she is a princess and must act differently. She knows that a princess is special and has important things to do. Her sense of importance is even greater when she discovers she is a princess because she is God’s child.

Acting differently is possible when we allow the Holy Spirit to produce His fruit through us. A Princess Forever by Cheryl Delamarter explains each characteristic of that fruit from the perspective of a princess.

The 6th Beatitude is to “Bee” without sin and stay pure.Lesson 6: Bee without sin and stay pure.

Introduction: Ask students what makes a person a prince or princess. Read “Gigi, God’s Little Princess” with your students. This book is also a part of four book set. After reading or listening to the book, discuss how being a child of God makes them a prince and princess.

Bible Integration:

Jesus Christ is strongly identified as the king prophesied in the Old Testament in Matthew 21:5 and John 12:15. Additionally, He receives royal enthronement in Hebrews 1:3,8 and Revelation 17:14; 19:16. Here is a list of ten verses that teach us Jesus is King.

Revelation 19:13, 16John 18:36Isaiah 9:6-7Ephesians 1:20-21Daniel 7:13-14Acts 2:30-32Revelation 17:141 Timothy 6:13-15Hebrews 1:3-4Revelation 1:5-6

You may also want to read Timothy Keller’s book Jesus, the King.

When we accept Jesus as our Lord and Savior we become children of God.

“Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when Christ appears, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is. Our identity as a child of God means that we rely fully on God and trust in His plan for our lives.”

1 John 3:2

Here is a list of verses that further describe us as children of God.

Galatians 3:262 Corinthians 6:18Romans 8:14Galatians 4:7Matthew 19:14John 1:21 John 3:10Beatitudes PrayerDear Jesus, Because you died for my sins and rose again, you are my king. I want you to be the King of my life and my world. As your child, I want my heart to stay pure. Help me to live my life for you and be the princess that will make you proud. Language Arts Integration

After reciting the beatitudes prayer, students realize they are royalty. Next, have them write a royal decree explaining what they should do as a prince or princess of God. The fruit of Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23 will provide you with a list of characteristics that you may want to include in the orders. Read A Princess Forever by Cheryl Delamarter for ideas. Roll each decree into a scroll and tie it with a ribbon. Place all the decrees in a container. Then each day, select a scroll, unroll it, and announce a new daily decree. Begin the announcement with “Here ye, Here ye…”

Children’s books about being a princess and child of King Jesus.Math/Science Integration

Students will gain an understanding of probability. Gigi loved to discover things. She found buttons and ribbons. The students will discover the probability of selecting the specific color of buttons and ribbons from a bag. For example, put five red and two blue ribbons in a bag. First, ask the student to predict what color they will pull out. Older students can identify the chance to be 5/7 or 2/7. Repeat this activity with buttons and various amounts.

Social Studies and Geography Integration

What countries and places have kings, queens, princes, and princesses? Discuss different systems of government. For example, a king is born to his position, and a president must be voted in.

Art/Drama

In 1 Corinthians 9:25, Paul speaks of the unperishable crown we receive in Heaven. Pretend these are crowns to see and wear today. Imagine how beautiful a heavenly crown is and design it. Have a royal parade where students wear their crowns. Add blankets for royal capes.

Gigi wondered what things were passed down from her ancestors. Have students survey their families to discover the heirlooms they possess.

A song to explain the Beatitudes Prayer.

We’ve created a song to help us remember and learn the 8 Beatitudes. You can download a free copy of the song. Each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Beatitudes Prayer and Growing the Fruit of the Spirit

Just as a princess reflects the fruit of the Spirit in Cheryl Delamarter’s book A Princess Forever, Little Pot discovers that it is a vessel created to be a fruit pot. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Learn how the Potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post How to have an attitude pure in heart. A Beatitudes Prayer and Lesson. appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

Are you looking to enhance your relationships and become a more gracious friend? The 8 Beatitudes, as the Bible outlines, offer a transformative guide to life. These eight blessings, spoken by Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount, provide valuable insights into how we live when the fruit of the Spirit is cultivated through us. Learning to embody the Beatitudes can deepen our connections, foster understanding, and bring positivity into our friendships. Just listen to how a little pot explains the 8 Beatitudes.

Read more: What is the 8 Beatitudes: Become a more gracious friend.

Welcome to Little Pot‘s fruit-bearing journey. Little Pot is a character in the children’s books about the potter and the different vessels he creates. It is a vessel that holds many different items for the potter. As it does, it tries to discover its purpose. Eventually, Little Pot learns it is a fruit pot, and the potter can grow his fruit inside it. Therefore, Little Pot is a fruit-bearing vessel created by the potter. Likewise, Little Pot’s process to grow strawberries mirrors how our creator grows the fruit of the Spirit through us. You can sign up to learn more about that process here:

A part of the process includes pollination. That sometimes happens with the help of bees. That’s why Little Pot refers to the 8 Beatitude blessings as “Bee Attitudes.” Alongside Little Pot, we explore these attitudes, examine their meanings, and discuss practical ways to integrate them into different subjects using children’s books. Let’s join in and learn a lot from Little Pot as we explore the 5th Beatitude:

“Blessed are the merciful,
    for they will be shown mercy. “

Matthew 5:7

What is the 8 BeatitudesLittle Pot’s eight lessons to teach the Beatitudes.

Likewise, the eight lessons full of Beatitude activities are listed below. Click on each to read that specific lesson.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.

Go here if you haven’t read Little Pot’s introduction to the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.

Blessed are the Merciful

In the fifth Beatitude, Jesus says we are blessed if we show mercy to others. Students will learn the attitude of a gracious and compassionate friend. Because Jesus loves everyone, it is important that we see others with the love and compassion of Christ. The following activities will be based on the children’s book: My Life as a Smashed Burrito by Bill Myers.

“Bee” a gracious and merciful friend to everyone.Lesson 4: Bee a Friend to Everyone.

Introduction: Read “My Life as a Smashed Burrito” with your students. This book is a part of the hilarious series by Bill Myers and is new once again. After reading or listening to the book, discuss why it was difficult for Wally and Gary to be friends. What things happened to help Wally change his feelings towards Gary? Think of someone you have difficulty being friendly to. What about them makes it hard? What could you do to show love to them? Pray and ask God to see them and love them as He does.

Bible Integration:

God tells us to love our enemies.

“You have heard that it was said, Love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”

Matthew 5:43-44

Language Arts Integration

Create “Burrito Book Reports.” Have students recall and write events from a story. Write each event on separate pieces of colored paper. Each paper should represent an ingredient inside a burrito, such as lettuce, beans, chicken, etc. Then wrap the events in a large, burrito-shaped, manila sheet of paper. Label the burrito with the book’s title and the child’s name. Display the burritos. Then, unwrap each as you share them with others.

Reading

Have students practice reading passages from the book aloud with expression. After each chapter, have students summarize what they have read or heard.

Writing Integration

Students will write a story with two endings. In the book, Dale explains that choosing the right friends can lead to good things. But choosing the wrong friends can lead to bad things. Allow them to have both options and two endings in their stories.

Little Pot teaches the Beatitudes with the book, “My Life as a Smashed Burrito.” by Bill Myers.Math Integration

Just as Wall Street kept score for Wally and Gary, give points to children as they do nice things for their peers. Using the points, create a simple chart. Add and compare the results. Use decimals and fractions as Wall Street does to make the skill more difficult.

Science/Physical Education Integration

Gary and Wally had trouble maneuvering their canoe. Discuss with the children how paddling in opposite directions causes friction, but paddling in the same direction together causes motion. Demonstrate it with pairs of children sitting on rolling chairs, using brooms for paddles.

Geography Integration

Using descriptions of the camp form inside the book, students should create a map labeling the essential places, such as Gary’s cabin, Wally’s cabin, the river, the latrines, the toxic waste site, and the hole Dale falls in.

A song to explain what the 8 Beatitudes are.

We’ve created a song to help us remember and learn the 8 Beatitudes. You can download a free copy of the song. Each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Bee Attitudes to Grow the Fruit of the Spirit

Being a gracious friend to everyone happens when we allow God to produce the fruit of the Spirit through our lives. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list so you can continue to … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Learn how the potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post What is the 8 Beatitudes: Become a more gracious friend. appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

Are you eager as a beaver for more Beatitude activities? Do you hunger and thirst for righteousness like an eager beaver? The dictionary says an eager beaver is a person who is willing to work very hard and has an unbelievable amount of energy and enthusiasm. Does that describe you as you seek righteousness? The fourth Beatitude in Matthew 5:6 says;

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness: for they shall be filled”

Matthew 5:6

I can’t say I know what it is to be truly hungry. We live lives where food and drink are always available. However, if I think of a time when I desperately wanted a drink of water or any beverage to quench my thirst, I can remember how good it tasted. How refreshed I was as I gulped down that cold bottle of water. In those moments we drink liquid as if our life depended on it. Similarly, God wants us to seek righteousness. When we do, we are blessed because He promises to fill us.

With the help of our trusty companion, Little Pot, we have delved into a variety of creative and interactive activities that will bring the Beatitudes to life. So, let’s discover how a beaver’s enthusiasm for righteousness can ignite our own passion for living a life that produces the fruit of the Spirit!

Read more: Eager as a Beaver for Righteousness and 8 More Beatitude Activities with Little Pot.8 Lessons full of Beatitude Activities.Little Pot’s eight lessons to teach the Beatitudes.

Likewise, the eight lessons full of Beatitude activities are listed below. Click on each to read that specific lesson.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.

Go here if you haven’t read Little Pot’s introduction to the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.

Learn a lot with Little Pot and Beatitude activities.

First, let’s review why Little Pot is the best tool to create Beatitude activities. Little Pot is a character in the children’s books about the potter and the different vessels he creates. It is a vessel that holds many different items for the potter. As it does, it tries to discover its purpose. Eventually, Little Pot learns it is a fruit pot, and the potter can grow his fruit inside it.

In the same way, we were created to be fruit pots too. We are vessels through which our creator wants to grow the fruit of the Spirit. That process is illustrated in Little Pot’s seven steps. The sixth step in the process is when Little Pot blooms a flower. The flower is then pollinated before it can become a fruit. Bees sometimes do the pollination process. As the bees buzz around Little Pot’s flowers, their fuzzy bodies and attitudes pollinate to produce fruit. Consequently, Little Pot refers to the beatitudes as Bee Attitudes.

A song about the Beatitude Activities

Likewise, we bloom knowledge and attitudes that allow the Holy Spirit to grow His fruit through us. Therefore we’ve paired each of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 with a bee. We’ve created a song and lesson for each. You can download a free copy of the song and learn how each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list and … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Eager as a Beaver

In the fourth Beatitude, Jesus says we are blessed if we hunger and thirst for Righteousness. Hunger and thirst are appetites that we continually have. Food and drink only satisfy us for a time. Eventually, we get hungry and thirsty again. Likewise, our desire for God and righteousness should return to us over and over. The following book will help us with our Beatitude Activities.

Our story to help us illustrate this Beatitude is about an eager beaver named Ben. Ben’s father and older siblings are going on a willow expedition. Ben begs to go along. When his dad won’t let him go, he still tries to follow by sneaking around the side of the lodge. Eventually, he follows his father into the deep woods. Ben’s eagerness helped him to overcome obstacles. When he sees that his home and mother are in trouble, he is the first to tell his dad and get help. Likewise, we need to be eager in asking God to help others.

The 4th lesson from Little Pot’s Beatitude activities is to be eager for God.Lesson 4: Bee Eager, God will win.

Introduction: Today we are going to meet a “Wildlife Buddy.” His name is Ben. Show students the book cover and ask them what type of animal Ben is. That’s right, He is a beaver. In this book, we can learn about beavers, where they live, and all the wonderful qualities that God gave them. First, we will enjoy a fictional story about Ben. Then, we will discover some beaver facts as we learn the parts of this book are fiction and nonfiction.

Read Ben the Beaver (IT’S A WILDLIFE BUDDY) by Daniela De Luca

Johanna Nelson reads and shares Ben the Beaver by Daniela De LucaBible Integration:

Children will discover the wonderful features God gave the beaver and other animals.

God made the wild animals of the earth of every kind, and the cattle of every kind, and everything that creeps upon the ground of every kind. And God saw that it was good.

Genesis 1:25

Language Arts Integration

Students will learn the difference between fiction and nonfiction. Have each student fold a piece of paper into two columns. Label the first column as Fact and the second as Fiction. Revisit the book and record appropriate sentences on each side of the paper. For example, Fact: A beaver’s teeth continue to grow. Fiction: Beavers wear clothes.

Writing Integration

Using a beaver picture with a large tail. The beaver’s tail will be made into a book where the students can write their own beaver adventures. You may want to call the story “A Beaver’s Tale”

Write a story about an eager beaver and publish it on the tail of a beaver. Call it “A Beaver’s Tale”Math Integration

On page nineteen of the book, the possible measurements for a beaver dam are said to be between 15 to 30 feet. Gather sticks or other materials and have children work together to build their own dams based on specific lengths that you determine.

Science Integration

Build a beaver habitat. As a special snack idea, build a beaver’s lodge by stirring La Choy noodles and peanut butter (or Nutella) together. Give each child a scoop on a paper plate and allow students to add pretzel sticks and powdered sugar for snow.

Geography Integration

Discuss the geographical areas of beavers. Page twenty-one of the story shows a map. Give each student an illustration of a world map and shade the areas in which beavers live. They may label the continents, oceans, and any other skills you would like to cover.

Bee Attitudes to Grow the Fruit of the Spirit

Do you see the similarities between being eager for righteousness and growing the fruit of the Spirit? Righteousness is an attitude of love, joy, peace, and faithfulness. These qualities are in the fruit of the Spirit. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit.

Learn how the potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post Eager as a Beaver for Righteousness and 8 More Beatitude Activities with Little Pot. appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

In the Beatitudes in Matthew 5, Jesus gave a shocking list of blessings. Within them, he said, “Blessed are the meek.” Who are the meek? Have you wondered what Jesus considers a meek person to be? Look no further than these fruitful lessons from Little Pot, a fruit-bearing vessel created by the potter. The Wisdom Jesus shared through the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 is transformative. Little Pot calls them “Bee-Attitudes” because bees help flowers pollinate and transform into fruit.

These eight powerful lessons guide understanding how the Beatitudes can lead to growing the fruit of the Spirit. Join us as we embark on a fruit-bearing journey and uncover the hidden blessings and fruit-bearing opportunities within each Beatitude. Additionally, through inspiring stories, we explore how embracing an attitude of meekness leads to peace, gentleness, faithfulness, and self-control. Get ready to become a fruit pot and experience a profound transformation as we dive into the third blessing within the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.

Read more: Meek and Obedient. 8 Unique lessons from the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.8 Lessons on the Beatitudes in Matthew 5. Little Pot’s eight lessons to teach the Beatitudes.

Likewise, the eight lessons on the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 are listed below. Click on each to read that specific lesson.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.

Go here if you haven’t read Little Pot’s introduction to the Beatitudes in Matthew 5.

Learn a Lot about the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 with Little Pot

First, let’s discuss why Little Pot is the best tool to help us understand the Beatitudes in Matthew 5. Little Pot is a character in the children’s books about the potter and the different vessels he creates. It is a vessel that holds many different items for the potter. As it does, it tries to discover its purpose. Eventually, Little Pot learns it is a fruit pot, and the potter can grow his fruit inside it.

In the same way, we were created to be fruit pots too. We are vessels through which our creator wants to grow the fruit of the Spirit. That process is illustrated in Little Pot’s seven steps. The sixth step in the process is when Little Pot blooms a flower. The flower is then pollinated before it can become a fruit. Bees sometimes do the pollination process. As the bees buzz around Little Pot’s flowers, their fuzzy bodies and attitudes pollinate to produce fruit. Consequently, Little Pot refers to the beatitudes as Bee Attitudes.

A song about the Beatitudes in Matthew 5

Likewise, we bloom knowledge and attitudes that allow the Holy Spirit to grow His fruit through us. Therefore we’ve paired each of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 with a bee. We’ve created a song and lesson for each. You can download a free copy of the song and learn how each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list and … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

Meek not Weak

Meekness is not weak. We sometimes think of meekness as a shy and scared person. Jesus meant something else when he used the term. He was referring to someone strong enough to submit and obey others. Therefore, meekness is characterized by unquestioning obedience. The concept we want children to gain with this lesson is that it is important to obey God even when they do not understand why. Doing so will cause them to be meek, and a meek attitude pleases God.

The 3rd lesson from the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 is always being meek or obedient.Lesson 3: Bee Obedient all the Time.

Introduction: How many of you have a pantry at home? This is a story that takes place in a pantry. It is about a mouse named Meatball. I wonder how she got a name like Meatball. What adventures do you think a mouse could have inside a pantry? Let’s read about this one together.

Read Meatball, the first story in 5 Cheesy Stories About Friendship, Bravery, Bullying, and More (Tails from the Pantry) by Patsy Clairmont

Discuss how Meatball got through her adventure and stayed safe because of what she remembered from her mother and father. Their teachings and words helped her to know just what to do. When Meatball was afraid, she obeyed her father. When she didn’t understand why she would have to roll into a ball, she still obeyed. Meatball was meek in her character because she followed her parents’ instructions. We must be meek also and follow God’s instructions, recall His Word, and obey Him even when we do not understand.

Bible Integration:

Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you.

Exodus 20:12

Language Arts Integration

Meatball is a compound word. Copy the following sentences from the story and circle the compound word in each sentence.

Once upon a can of spaghetti sat a mouse named Meatball MacKenzie. She likes to paint her toenails powder puff pink. Looking around the kitchen, she spotted Duff, the Calico Cat. The mouse jumped from the spaghetti can and down onto a can of tuna. That last sneeze was a doozy, throwing Duff backward out of the pantry. She spotted an open box of cornflakes on the shelf below her. Confident Duff was curled up somewhere napping, she decided to venture out of the cereal box. Her bedroom was next to a chocolate-covered cherry she’d been nibbling on for months.It wasn’t cardboard like the box. It was something hard, making a crinkly sound when she stepped on it.Writing Integration

Meatball had many different feelings in this story. She felt sad, scared, anxious, brave, and lonely. Have the student create their own adventure with a mouse inside a pantry. Encourage them to have their characters show a lot of different feelings too.

Math Integration

Make a list of items in your pantry. From the list, create categories (soups, vegetables, cereals, etc.). Then graph the items into a bar, pie, and/or line graph.

Science Integration

Do a science experiment with items from your pantry. Fill a baggie with an item from your pantry. (flour, syrup, cereal. vegetable oil, etc.) Predict what will happen if the substance is added to water. Will it float, sink or dissolve? Then add each item to a cup of water and record if the predictions were correct.

Social Studies Integration

Purchase a small toy mouse and name it Meatball. Have one student be the cat and leave the room. Then, hide the mouse. When ‘the cat” returns, give directional words (North, South, East, West) to help the cat locate the toy mouse,

Art integration

Design a new label for Meatball’s can.

Snack Idea

Lay half of a pear on a plate. Pretend this is the body of a mouse. Add raisins for eyes, sliced almonds for ears, and a licorice stick for a tale.

Bee Attitudes to Grow the Fruit of the Spirit

Do you see the similarities between obedience and the fruit of the Spirit? It takes self-control to be obedient. Meekness is also an attitude of gentleness. These qualities are in the fruit of the Spirit. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit.

Learn how the potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post Meek and Obedient. 8 Unique lessons from the Beatitudes in Matthew 5. appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

In the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus said, “Blessed are those who mourn.” Are you curious why He thought mourning was a blessing? Maybe you’re tired of feeling weighed down by the burdens of life. Subsequently, you do not feel blessed and long for a sense of elusive joy and fulfillment. Look no further than the fruitful lessons of Little Pot, a fruit-bearing vessel created by the potter. The Wisdom Jesus shared in the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount is transformative. Little Pot calls them “Bee-Attitudes” because bees help flowers pollinate and transform into fruit.

These eight powerful lessons guide understanding how the Beatitudes can lead to growing the fruit of the Spirit. Join us as we embark on a fruit-bearing journey as we uncover the hidden blessings and fruit-bearing opportunities within each Beatitude. Additionally, through inspiring stories, we explore how embracing an attitude of mourning leads to unshakeable joy. Get ready to become a fruit pot and experience a profound transformation as we dive into the second blessing within the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount.

Read more: From Mourning to Joy: 8 Lessons in the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount8 Lessons on the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount Little Pot’s eight lessons to teach the Beatitudes.

Likewise, the eight lessons on the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount are listed below. Click on each to read that specific lesson.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.Learn a Lot about the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount with Little Pot

First, let’s discuss why Little Pot is the best tool to help us understand the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount. Little Pot is a character in the children’s books about the potter and the different vessels he creates. It is a vessel that holds many different items for the potter. As it does, it tries to discover its purpose. Eventually, Little Pot learns it is a fruit pot and can grow fruit for the potter.

In the same way, we were created to be fruit pots too. We can grow the fruit of the Spirit for our creator. That process is illustrated in Little Pot’s seven steps. The sixth step in the process is when Little Pot blooms a flower. The flower is then pollinated before it can become a fruit. Bees sometimes do the pollination process. As the bees buzz around Little Pot’s flowers, their fuzzy bodies and attitudes pollinate to produce fruit. Consequently, Little Pot refers to the beatitudes as Bee Attitudes.

A Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount Song

Likewise, we bloom knowledge and attitudes that allow the Holy Spirit to grow His fruit through us. Therefore we’ve paired each of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 with a bee. We’ve created a song and lesson for each. You can download a free copy of the song and learn how each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list and … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

If you haven’t read Little Pot’s introduction to Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount, go here.

Blessed are those who mourn.

Mourn means to feel sorry and sad. We think of mourning as how we feel when someone we love has died. However, Jesus meant something else when he used the term. He was referring to mourning or feeling sorry for doing something wrong. Can you think of a time when you wrongly treated God or another person? How does it feel when you accidentally or on purpose hurt someone else? How should we feel when we hurt God? The following lesson will help students to see that God blesses us when we feel sorry for our sins.

To mourn is to be sorry for your sin.Lesson 2: Bee Sorry For Our Sin.

Introduction: Who likes baseball? What is your favorite thing to do? How would you like to be able to do something you love all day, every day? The little boy in the book, Baseball for Breakfast like baseball so much that he wants to play baseball for breakfast! He would love to play it all day and skip the bad moments of life. In this story, he can do just that. Let’s read and find out how God wants us to experience the good and the bad in life.

Read Baseball for Breakfast by Bill Myers

Discuss with the students how the boy’s actions caused others to suffer. As he realized that bad times are important, he also began to feel sorry for the trouble he had caused. He was mourning. Likewise, we should feel bad when we do wrong. God can forgive and comfort us when we feel bad and are sorry. Just as the book teaches about bad times, helping us enjoy the good, we also must learn that doing wrong and sinning can bring joy and comfort when we have an attitude of mourning.

Bible Integration:

Did you know that God has a specific time for everything?

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Language Arts and Math Integration

Tri-fold a large sheet of paper. Draw a clock on the corner of each section. Draw and write about three events in sequence and add each time. Share your paper and describe if the events were good or bad.

Write your own story pretending you found the unusual pocketwatch that Jimmy found. What things in your day would you skip, and what would you do for a longer period if you could? Title your story “______________ for Breakfast” and write in the blank your favorite activity.

Science Integration

Pull from the book the cause and effect of Jimmy’s choices. For example, Jimmy wanted to skip rainy days. That would lead to a drought. Then, crops would die, and we’d face a food shortage. Finally, come up with other cause-and-effect situations.

Social Studies Integration

Jimmy’s actions affected his community. Discuss how our individual actions affect our communities too. Consequently, what actions can we take to make our communities better?

Dramatic Play and Physical Education

Play baseball together.

Bee Attitudes to Grow the Fruit of the Spirit

Do you see the similarities between mourning and the fruit of the Spirit? Joy is a fruit of the Spirit, and our mourning turns to joy when we allow God to work through our situations. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit.

Learn how the potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post From Mourning to Joy: 8 Lessons in the Beatitudes from the Sermon on the Mount appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

What do Beatitudes mean? In a world constantly driven by material possessions and external achievements, it’s easy to overlook the importance of cultivating inner qualities and the fruit of the Spirit. The Beatitudes, a set of eight blessings spoken by Jesus in his Sermon on the Mount, offer valuable insights into the attitudes and virtues that lead to a fruitful life. Little Pot, a fruit-bearing vessel created by the potter, refers to them as “Bee Attitudes.” That’s because bees help pollinate flowers and grow fruit. Therefore, Little Pot has created eight lessons to understand each “Bee Attitude.” Join us as we will learn a lot with Little Pot and study the Beatitudes in Matthew 5:3-10.

Read more: What do Beatitudes mean? Unlock a Fruitful Life with 8 “Bee Attitude” Lessons.Learn a Lot about Beatitudes with Little Pot

First, let’s discuss why Little Pot is the best tool to help us understand what the Beatitudes mean. Little Pot is a character in the children’s books about the potter and the different vessels he creates. It is a vessel that holds many different items for the potter. As it does, it tries to discover its purpose. Eventually, Little Pot learns it is a fruit pot and can grow fruit for the potter.

We were created to be fruit pots too. We can grow the fruit of the Spirit for our creator. That process is illustrated in Little Pot’s seven steps. The sixth step in the process is when Little Pot blooms a flower. The flower is then pollinated before it can become a fruit. Bees sometimes do the pollination process. That is why Little Pot refers to the beatitudes as Bee Attitudes. Likewise, as the bees buzz around Little Pot’s flowers, their fuzzy bodies and attitudes pollinate to produce fruit.

Little Pot’s 8 lessons to teach the Beatitudes.Beatitude Activities

Likewise, we bloom knowledge and attitudes that allow the Holy Spirit to grow His fruit through us. Therefore we’ve paired each of the Beatitudes in Matthew 5 with a bee. We’ve created a song and lesson for each. You can download the song below. The following is the list of lessons.

Lesson 1: (Matt. 5:3) Blessed are the poor in spirit -Be Humble; depend on God.Lesson 2: (Matt. 5:4) Blessed are those who mourn -Be Sorry for your sin.Lesson 3: (Matt. 5:5) Blessed are the meek. -Be obedient all the timeLesson 4: (Matt. 5:6) Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. -Be eager; God will win.Lesson 5: (Matt. 5:7) Blessed are the merciful. -Be a friend to everyone.Lesson 6: (Matt. 5:8) Blessed are the pure in heart. -Be without sin and stay pure.Lesson 7: (Matt. 5:9) Blessed are the peacemakers. -Be the one for peace and fun.Lesson 8: (Matt. 5:10) Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness. -Be bold and brave for God.

You can download a free copy of the song and learn how each line matches a Beatitude within the Biblical text. You will also be added to our Fruitful Friday email list and … “Learn a lot from Little Pot!”

You can read more about the Beatitudes in the Message Bible and traditional text here.

What do beatitudes mean, “Blessed are the poor in spirit.”

To be “poor in spirit” simply means to be humble. Humility can be difficult to understand. Therefore, Little Pot explains that humility comes from the Latin word humus. Humus is the good soil Little Pot contains to grow fruit. Additionally, you can learn more about this lesson on humility here. Having high self-esteem can feel as though it contradicts being humble. However, it is important to learn that humility is not an action but an attitude we have under God. Our actions reflect this attitude. The following lesson will help students to see they can have high self-esteem and be humble at the same time.

Beatitude Lesson 1: Be humble and depend on God.Lesson 1: Bee Humble, depend on God.

Introduction: Read Buzby by Troy Schmidt and Max Lucado

Mrs. McDonald’s Stories and Such – Buzby the Misbehaving BeeBuzby, King of the Bees

Discuss with the students Buzby’s attitude throughout the story. Who does Buzby think is King at the beginning of the story, and who does he think is King at the end? How does his view of God and himself change his attitude? Explain to the students that Buzby became poor in spirit when he realized that God was bigger and more important than he was. His new humble attitude allowed him to depend on God for help and be a better friend to others.

Bible Integration:

How do you think God feels about rules?

Follow my decrees and be careful to obey my laws, and you will live safely in the land.

Leviticus 25:18

Language Arts Integration

In the Buzby movie above, Buzby likes to spell. Challenge the students to say sentences the way Buzby does and spell out words. For example, Buzby would say (in an Elvis Presley voice), “I am going to eat pizza, P-I-Z-Z-A for lunch.”

Math Integration

Use bee patterns to write math facts on. Then, write their sum, difference, product, or quotient on a flower pattern. Have students fly the bee to the correct flower. For preschool children, have them match a number to a bee with that many stripes on its back.

Science Integration

Read non-fiction books about bees and write facts they learn about bees in a KWL chart. If possible, visit a bee farm.

Social Studies and Writing Integration

Discuss how Buzby did not follow the rules. What consequences did the characters in the story have when Buzby broke the rules? Have students choose rules they wish did not exist. Then write a story about the consequences that could happen. For example, jumping off a swing might cause a broken bone. Finally, help students understand that rule-breaking affects the well-being of others and themselves.

Dramatic Play

Make new words to the song, “I’m bringing home a baby bumble bee.” and act out motions for each. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

I’m bringing home Buzby Bumble Bee, Won’t my Jesus be so proud of me.

I’m bringing home Buzby Bumble Bee, Hey, look at me.

I’m reading ’bout Buzby Bumble Bee, Won’t my Jesus be so proud of me.

I’m reading ’bout Buzby Bumble Bee, Oh No, Buzby!

I’m flyinig like Buzby Bumble Bee, Won’t my Jesus be so proud of me.

I’m flyinig like Buzby Bumble Bee, Look out for me.

I’m buzzing like Buzby Bumble Bee, Won’t my Jesus be so proud of me.

I’m buzzing like Buzby Bumble Bee, Hey, I’m sorry.

I’m praying like Buzby Bumble Bee, Won’t my Jesus be so proud of me.

I’m praying like Buzby Bumble Bee, Thank you Jesus.

Art integration

Make bees with toilet paper rolls and cellophane. Wrap black and yellow strips of paper around the tube. Cut wings from cellophane and glue on top. Add eyes and pipe cleaner legs. Attach a string so your bees can hang from the ceiling. Create a beehive with paper mache and a balloon too.

Bee Attitudes to Grow the Fruit of the Spirit

Do you see the similarities between being “poor in spirit” and the fruit of the Spirit? Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control grow when we are humble and put others first. Little Pot’s fruit-bearing cycle explains more. Add your first name and email below, and we’ll send you the seven steps to growing the fruit of the Spirit.

Learn how the potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

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The post What do Beatitudes mean? Unlock a Fruitful Life with 8 “Bee Attitude” Lessons. appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.

Character teaching and helping others develop the skills of a good citizen can be challenging. However, Little Pot, the main character in the lesson and a fruit-bearing vessel created by the potter brings clarity and simplicity to the task. Additionally, in these seven FREE lessons, children learn the fruit-bearing cycle and how the Holy Spirit can produce love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control through them. Likewise, the activities perfectly blend fun and learning with understanding. The seventh lesson in this series is the final lesson and covers the fruit itself. So, let’s join Little Pot as it continues character teaching.

Read more: Transform your character teaching with these 7 FREE lessons.Why you should use Little Pot in character teaching.

First, let’s discuss why Little Pot is the perfect tool for teaching character traits. The seven lessons illustrate complex concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. Little Pot’s fruit-growing cycle can teach character traits such as identity, humility, integrity, relationships, and knowledge. Moreover, Little Pot is a tangible reminder of the creator’s love and care for us. Likewise, it symbolizes how God nurtures us, wants a relationship with us, and helps us grow into the people He wants us to be.

When you use Little Pot’s method of fruit growing, you’re helping others understand that character is not fixed or innate but something God cultivates and develops over time. Therefore, using this character education curriculum as a teaching tool develops the skills and attitudes needed to become the vessels God designed us to be. Each week, we will discuss one of the following lesson plans.

Lesson Plan 1: IdentityLesson Plan 2: Humility and How to Contain ItLesson Plan 3: Planting the Right SeedsLesson Plan 4: Strong and Upright IntegrityLesson Plan 5: Fostering Healthy RelationshipsLesson Plan 6: Blooming KnowledgeLesson Plan 7: Fruit of the Spirit

If you prefer to buy the entire curriculum with all the lesson plans, worksheets, posters, and activities included. Click the green button.

Buy the complete curriculum.7 lessons for character teaching with Little PotReview the previous lessons on Character Teaching.

Review the information in the first through sixth lessons. Before fruit forms, a flower blooms, and leaves follow photosynthesis. Likewise, the stem supported the plant as it sprouted from the seed planted in the soil. Additionally, the entire process required a vessel made by a potter. Therefore, we began with our identity. Then, we filled ourselves with humility (humus soil). Next, we planted the right seed (the Word of God). Fourthly, a strong and upright stem grew, representing our integrity. That stem supports strong healthy relationships. Finally, those relationships lead to new knowledge and information that blooms, and now we see the fruit of the Spirit produced.

Lesson Plan 7: The Fruit of the Spirit

In this lesson, Students will understand the function of the fruit is to protect and spread the plant’s seed. They will identify the characteristics within the fruit of the Spirit.

But the (Fruit of the) Spirit gives love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. There is no law that says these things are wrong. -Galatians 5:22-23He is strong, like a tree planted by a river. It produces fruit in season. Its leaves don’t die. Everything he does will succeed. -Psalm 1:3Understanding fruit and strawberries.

Fruit is defined as a fleshy product that contains a seed. We have learned that in a plant’s reproductive process, seeds form inside the ovary, where they are pollinated. The membrane around the seed grows into the fruit. The fruit protects the seed and carries it to a new location to grow again. It is a cycle that continually repeats itself.

It appears that strawberries carry their seeds on the outside of the fruit. However, that is technically not the case. The strawberry is deceptive. Those tiny yellow specks are not the seeds; the sweet flesh we love is not the fruit. The fertilized ovaries in the flower form separate, small, dry fruits. Those “seeds” outside a strawberry are fruits, each containing a single seed.

The complete curriculum has worksheets where students can show their understanding of fruit.

Buy the complete curriculum.The “seeds” outside a strawberry are fruits, each containing a single seed.Strawberries, Character Teaching & the Fruit of the Spirit

Think of the fruit of the Spirit as a strawberry. The qualities that the Holy Spirit produces are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control. They are different traits that together make one product. You cannot show patience without love or gentleness without goodness. The fruit of the Spirit is all the qualities listed in Galatians 5:22-23 and more.

A fruit protects and spreads the seed. The fruit of the Spirit that we can bear is to protect God’s Word and spread it to others. It will reproduce itself too. When you allow God to grow love through you, and you show that love to someone else, they will receive God’s Word and will, in turn, have what is needed to grow fruit. The more fruit we grow, the more seeds of God’s Word are planted in others. Share ways we can grow love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control today.

Color a strawberry and read the Bible verses below. Then, describe how a friend has shown you love, joy, peace, etc. Write their name on the strawberry. Consider a different friend and situation for each trait in the list below.

Bible verses for the fruit of the SpiritBible Verses for the Fruit of the SpiritLove: John 15:9, 1 Corinthians 13, 1 John 4:19.Joy: Psalm 71:23, John 16:22-24.Peace: Romans 12:18; 14:9, 1 Corinthians 14:33, Philippians 4:6-7.Patience: Proverbs 14:21; 15:18; 28:11, 1 Thes. 5:14, James 5:8-9.Kindness: Proverbs 11:16-17, Jeremiah 9:23-24, Luke 6:31, Job 6:14.Goodness: Psalm 23:6, Ephesians 5:8-10, Galatians 6:9-10Faithfulness: Proverbs 3:3, Matthew 23:23, Revelation 2:10bGentleness: Proverbs 15:1, Colossians 3:12, Philippians 4:5, 1 Peter 3:15.Self-Control: Proverbs 25:28; 29:11, Titus 2:11-12, 1 Peter 4:7

The complete curriculum comes with illustrations to complete this activity.

Buy the complete curriculum.Conclusion

In conclusion, have students create the cycle with a paper wheel and a Brad fastener. The wheel should be divided into six even sections. In each section, they can write about a time when they contained humility, planted the seed of God’s Word, stemmed integrity, grew a relationship (leaf), bloomed knowledge, and saw the Holy Spirit produce His fruit through them.

Each part of the cycle helps to produce character and grow the fruit of the Spirit.

The disc is already created and available in the complete curriculum. Purchase it here for just $10.25.

Buy the complete curriculum.

In the meantime, I hope you will sign up for the Fruitful Friday emails and Little Pot’s seven fruit-bearing steps below.

Learn how the potter grows the fruit of the Spirit through you. 1. The Little Pot Picture Book Add to cart 2. The Tea Pot Picture Book Add to cart 3. The Oil Lamp Picture Book Add to cart 4. Burnout Fit In Picture Book Add to cart

Disclosure: The links above are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase.

The post Transform your character teaching with these 7 FREE lessons. appeared first on Learn a lot from The Little Pot.