This science experiment illustrates how we draw near to God and he in turn draws to us. You can use this with students of all ages to teach this lesson.
Seeing How One Magnet Creates Another Magnet
Applicable Scriptures:
James 4:8 Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.
Materials:
1-inch horseshoe magnet
Sewing needle
Steps:
1. Hold the sewing needle up to the magnet
2. Let go
Does the sewing needle stick to the magnet?
3. Pinch the sewing needle between your thumb and finger at the halfway point.
4. Take the magnet and, using one end of the horseshoe only, rub the needle from your finger out to the point.
5. Stroke the needle fifty times this way with the magnet, going always in the same direction, using always the same end of the magnet.
6. Turn the needle and the magnet around.
7. Using the other end of the horseshoe only, rub the needle from your finger out to the eye.
8. Stroke the needle fifty times this way with the magnet, going always in the same direction, using always the same end of the magnet.
9. Put the needle on the table. Hold the magnet right over top of it.
Does the sewing needle stick to the magnet?
Answer:
Before rubbing the magnet against the needle, it would not stick. After rubbing the needle, it should stick.
Explanation:
Essentially you have created a magnet out of a nonmagnetic needle. By rubbing the magnet’s north and south poles against the two ends of the needle, you gave
it magnetic pull. While this only works on ionized metals (not coins, copper or scrap), repeated friction with a magnet caused the tiny atoms inside the needle to
rearrange themselves. Magnets are formed when all the atoms inside an object line up in a certain order. The friction drew them into order, and a new magnet
was created.
Understanding God:
When we accept Jesus into our hearts, we are said to be new creations. Part of that is that we are “magnetized” to God by drawing Him close to us. While before,
we might have felt spiritually limp or unmoving, now we can draw near to God and be pulled in the directions He wants us to go! As the saying goes from James 4:8,
draw near to God, and then He will draw near to you!
Did you enjoy that activity? Let me know by leaving a comment below! And be sure to check out this free sunday school video before you go!
A great idea. Thanks. We are teaching magnetism next term.
I loved this study in James and using magnets as the analogy. for drawing near to the Father. God works out all things for His good.
Thanks!!!
Donna