The Blessing Jar

preschoolelementary Craft ⏱ 15 minutes

Materials Needed

  • Small empty jars or clear plastic cups (one per child)
  • Stickers, markers, or washi tape for decorating
  • Small strips of paper
  • Pens or pencils

Purpose

To create a physical reminder of God’s provision, tying into the widow’s jars of flour and oil that never ran empty.

Setup

Finished Blessing Jar

  1. Pre-cut colorful paper strips of paper (about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long) so there are plenty for each child.
  2. Have the decorating supplies laid out at the tables.

Instructions

  1. Decorate the Jar: Give each child a clear plastic cup or small jar. Let them decorate the outside using stickers, permanent markers, or colorful washi tape.
  2. The Blessings: Give each child 3-5 strips of paper. Have them write or draw something God has provided for them on each strip. (Examples: My family, food to eat, a bed to sleep in, a warm coat, my church).
  3. Fill the Jar: Have them fold the strips of paper and drop them into their beautifully decorated jar.
  4. The Challenge: Tell the children to take the jar home. Whenever they are feeling worried or sad, they can pull out a strip of paper to remember how God provides for them!

Discussion While Crafting

  • “How much flour and oil did the widow have left when Elijah asked her for bread?” (Only enough for one tiny meal).
  • “Did she say no?” (She obeyed and trusted God).
  • “What happened to the jars after she made the bread?” (They never ran out! God kept filling them up).
  • “God doesn’t always drop bread from the sky, but He gives us everything we need. What are some things you are thankful for today?”