Perseverance
David’s warriors practiced until they were ambidextrous (1 Chronicles 12:1-2). Learn a skill with your non-dominant hand, or an ambidextrous routine set to music. Goal: Practice perseverance.
In 1 Chronicles 12:1-2 we read that David’s warriors had practiced so much that they were ambidextrous – able to shoot arrows or sling stones equally well right-handed or left-handed.
Later in the New Testament, in 2 Corinthians 6:3-7, Paul talks about the hardships he has endured as a missionary. In verse seven he speaks of having “weapons of righteousness” in his right hand and in his left. (See both Scriptures below).
Have your children make their own “weapons of righteousness” that they can use to help perfect their ambidexterity. These could be “swords” representing God’s word, or worship flags.
Make swords by covering cardboard with foil and or duct tape. Worship flags can be made by stapling fabric or ribbons to a cardboard tube or a wooden dowel.
Select a Scripture-based praise song and help your children create a routine that suits the music. Include motions that involve waving their swords or flags in both their right and left hands. Explain that when we praise and worship God, we are fighting on His team.
Have your children practice their routine. After they have become competent, have them perform it for the family.
Other ideas
For a less complex version of this activity, have your children practice a task with their non-dominant hand until they are as accomplished with their non-dominant hand as they are with their dominant hand.
Relevant Scripture
1 Chronicles 12:1-2 “These were the men who came to David at Ziklag, while he was banished from the presence of Saul son of Kish (they were among the warriors who helped him in battle; they were armed with bows and were able to shoot arrows or to sling stones right-handed or left-handed; they were kinsmen of Saul, from the tribe of Benjamin)…”
2 Corinthians 6:7 “…in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left…”
- Acceptance
- Adaptability
- Attentiveness
- Christmas
- Compassion
- Confidence
- Consideration
- Contentedness
- Cooperation
- Courage
- Courtesy
- Discernment
- Easter
- Faithfulness
- Forgiveness
- Generosity
- Gentleness
- Gratitude
- Harmony
- Honesty
- Humility
- Joy
- Kindness
- Obedience
- Patience
- Perseverance
- Respect
- Responsibility
- Reverence
- Righteousness
- Self-control
- Thanksgiving
