“Persistence Spoons” is a wonderful Bible game for kids that can be used to tell the story of Jacob fighting the angel in Genesis 32. It will become a favorite Bible game because: 1) It’s active 2) It’s inexpensive 3) It works for toddlers and older and 4) has a powerful, Bible-based message that persistence pays off.
Have the children form two relay teams at one end of the room. If there is an odd number, the first child on the team with fewer people can go twice. Give the first two children on each team a large tablespoon or slotted spoon (that’s four large spoons total). Place a piece of aluminum foil, rolled up like a baseball on one of the spoons at a time (that’s two aluminum baseballs).
Show the players how to throw the “ball” back and forth, catching it on the spoon. They should then begin to slowly move to the other end of the room while dashing back and forth.
A catch without dropping the ball earns a step up from both teammates. A dropped ball means they have to stay where they are and try again, until a caught ball gains them a step up.
Once a team reaches the far wall, they can run back with the spoons and ball and hand off to the next group of players.
The team that finishes first wins. Ask the children: “Who should receive the award?” They must answer that the winning team must do it.
However, remind them:
“God is not so interested in how fast or slow we are. He is interested in those who show persistence. Therefore, everyone gets a prize.”
Distribute cookies, licorice sticks, or other available prizes to the winner of the Bible game.