The works of the Lord are great, studied by all who have pleasure in them. Psalm 111:2

To complete your homework, read the scriptures and assigned online articles and answer the associated questions.

Instructions

Before you begin reading your Bible and answering these questions, ask the Lord to give you insight and understanding into the Scriptures.  It is the role of the Holy Spirit to reveal the truth to people (John 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:10).  By His power you will be able to understand what the Scriptures say. Now read the assigned passages of scripture and answer the following questions.  Please note that it is recommended that you use either a NKJV or NIV version of the Bible to answer the questions. If you do not have a Bible, links to each Scripture passage are provided for you.

Scripture Passage:  Psalm 139:1-24

  1. How does this passage of scripture describe God’s relationship with His Creation?

  2. Where can God be found? (verses 7-10)

  3. Were you, as a part of God’s Creation, planned or an accident? (verses 13-17)

  4. When did the Lord plan to create you? (verse 16)

  5. How often does God think about you? (verses 17 and 18)

  6. Did God make a mistake in creating you with your unique blend of gifts, talents, strengths and weaknesses? (verse 14)

  7. If God had wanted to create two people like you, could He have done it?  If He had wanted to create 20 people like you or 200 people like you, could He have done it

  8. Since God didn’t choose to create two people like you, what does that mean for you?  What does that mean for everyone else? 

  9. After reading this passage of Scripture, do you believe that God cares for you?

  10. Understanding that you are a unique creation of God, designed to accomplish His specific purpose for your life using the special gifts, talents, interests, strengths and weaknesses that He has given you, how can you purpose to be the best version of yourself possible for His glory?  (verses 23 and 24)

Scripture Passage: Psalm 104:25-28

  1. Summarize this passage of Scripture in your own words. Write it down in your notes.

  2. What are some of the characteristics of God described in this passage of Scripture?

Scripture Passage: Luke 12:24

  1. Summarize this Bible verse in your own words. Write it down in your notes.

  2. What are some of the characteristics of God described in this passage of Scripture?

  3. How are you included in the truth described in this verse?

  4. How can you apply this verse to your life?

Instructions

Read the following online article and write down any key points of the article that you would like to discuss in our next class.

FAN OR FRIEND?

After reading the article, answer the following questions. Be sure to write your answers down on a piece of paper and bring them to class.

Questions:

  1. What does it mean to be a follower of Jesus Christ?

  2. How should you maintain a relationship with Jesus Christ?

  3. How can you be confident that you are a friend of Jesus Christ, not just a fan of Jesus Christ?

Instructions 

Go to each of the assigned web sites to read and take notes on the appropriate article. Links are provided below.  For each of the assigned articles, your notes should include the following points:

  • Provide a summary of the key points of the article. If you had to give a presentation on the article, what information would you include in your notes?

  • List concepts or information that you found most interesting about the topic.

  • List any information that was presented from an evolutionary standpoint. Note any portion of the information that is truth.

  • List any words or information that you do not understand. Research these words and or concepts on your own.

We will review this information in our class lecture and discussion.

1 | Save the Manatee
Article: Sirenians of the World

2 | Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission
Article #1: Florida Manatee
Article #2: Florida Manatee Facts and Information

3 | US Fish & Wildlife Service
Article: West Indian Manatee

Instructions

Go to each of the assigned web sites to watch the video provided. Take notes on the key points of each video. Document the highlighted features or behaviors of the animal species as applicable.

  1. Manatees Are the "Sea Cows" of the Coasts | Nat Geo Wild (Time: 3:06)

  2. Guy Keeps Saving Baby Manatees | The Dodo Heroes | (Time: 3:13)

  3. Homosassa Manatee Webcam Highlights - Under Water | AdoptAManatee
    Watch 15 minutes of the linked video. Record the time code that you watched. How many manatees can you see?

  4. Crystal River Refuge's "Manatee Manners" for Swimmers | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Time: 8:25)

There is one species of manatee that can be seen in South Florida, the Florida Manatee.

Now it is time to apply what you've learned! In Romans 1:20, the Bible says that we can learn about God’s character by looking at what He made. Consider both the biblical and biological information that was discussed in this lesson and then write out your answers to the following questions.

  • This week we read Scriptures describing God's provision.  How can you see this character of God in way He designed manatees?

  • Take a few moments to consider the different types of sea cows that God made.  Think about one aspect of these animals that you enjoy.  Tell God about it by writing it out on paper. Then write out a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord praising Him for His Creation.