Jigsaw Puzzles
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28
Isn’t that ever an important truth to teach our children? So many things in life, when taken alone, will never give us real insight into what God’s big plan is for us. His ways are right and good, though oftentimes we are unable to see that rightness and goodness at a particular time. Some of those “things” are difficult and painful. Some bring joy and gladness. But if we are to trust this beloved passage of Scripture and embrace it, we have to believe it in the dark times as well as when the sun is shining.
Sometimes children go through darkness; life isn’t always bright and carefree for youngsters. There are times when sickness comes, either in their own bodies, or in that of someone dear to them. I know some young children for whom the latter applies at this very time. Actually, there are often valleys which children have to go through, more than we may think, if it hasn’t touched our own kids’ lives yet.
I have a suggestion: use jigsaw puzzles as a means to teach this truth. How about finding one where the completed picture is one which will be pleasing to them, a picture of something they enjoy or like. Work on the puzzle together, pointing out that some of the pieces have colors which are not very attractive when taken alone. But then you can tell them how those particularly “unattractive” or darkly colored pieces are each a necessary part of the total. In fact, the finished work would be lacking without them.
My oldest granddaughter, who is two, is beginning to love doing jigsaw puzzles and I LOVE doing them with her. She even (with just a little help) did one of the United States, and was she excited about it! I was too, let me tell you. I sure do hope she continues to enjoy doing these puzzles and that her parents will take every opportunity to help this activity teach her Romans 8:28. Hopefully, I can have some input too. Perhaps this will be an incentive for you to make use of this important tool for teaching many spiritual truths.
