Mecklenburg Community Church

For a child, fair is “getting the same exact treatment as everyone else” or “being treated the way you think you deserve.” As parents we know that fair has a different definition.

"THAT'S NOT FAIR!" Ever heard your child say that? Let’s define fair. For a child, fair is “getting the same exact treatment as everyone else” or “being treated the way you think you deserve.” As parents we know that fair has a different definition.

Fair is “everybody gets what they need, not everybody gets the same thing.” But what about God? What does he say is fair? We see this in a story from the Bible about Jacob and Esau. They had a complicated relationship from the womb. Theirs was a constant back and forth. Esau experienced a lot of seemingly unfairness – but it was all a part of God’s plan for him and for Jacob.

When ready, watch this MecKidz Online video. Ideally, watch it together as a family.

Lesson Details from Jacob and Esau

Bible Story: Jacob and Esau
Big Idea: God has a plan for my life, so I can trust Him even when something unfair happens.
Memory Verse: “‘I know the plans I have for you,’ announces the Lord. ‘I want you to enjoy success. I do not plan to harm you. I will give you hope for the years to come.’” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIrV)

After Video Follow Up Questions

For early childhood:

It was God’s plan all along for Jacob to get the birthright and blessing, but do you think what Jacob did to get them was good? Why or why not?
If you were Esau, what would you have done when your brother tricked you?
What should you do when someone does something super unfair to you?

For older kids:

What unfair thing has happened to you this week?
How should you respond when someone does something unfair to you?
Why do you think God doesn’t always make sure everyone gets the EXACT same thing all the time? Why does God allow people to treat others unfairly?
How can you trust God when unfair things happen?

God is Good

God will never do evil to you. But he has allowed people to act in unfair ways! That means life is often unfair. But, God is a GOOD GOD, and he is always working to turn unfair things people do, into good! God has a purpose and a plan for you even when things are unfair. And it starts, with trusting God, and treating others the way he wants you to treat them, especially when they treat you unfairly.

Later this week, use the HOME GUIDE to take your family deeper into this lesson of trusting God when life is unfair. Thank you for letting us partner with you to lead your kids to know, love, and serve Jesus.