Do you want to be sure your Bíble stories have the creative punch that will hold your students' attention? Apply the followíng tips!

ldentify the purpose of the story:

1. It may be a tool to reach your students for Christ.

2. It gives an opportunity to impart the truth of the Word.

3. It will build up the students in their Christian walk (Bible reading, prayer, and witnessing).

4. It will interest your students in living a fully committed Christian life.

Be systematic and thorough in your preparation:

1. Pray about your presentation of the story.

2. Read it from the Bible as if you had never read it before.

3. Read it for characters—what kind of people are they?

4. Read it for actions, happiness, sadness, conflict, etc.

5. Read it for scenes.

6. Read it for gestures and movements which will enhance your presentation.

7. Think it through, placing characters, actions, scenes, etc., together. Decide on the best place or places to weave in the objective.

8. Rehearse the story in your mind until it is the right length and to the point.

9. Use an approach that will attract the attention of your students.

Be aware of the form of your story:

1. Your approach should grip the attention of your students. Memorize the first sentence.

2. Understand the background of the story and the people's customs. Build up the story and weave in the objective.

3. Develop your story to a climax or critical point.

4. Finish quickly and get the objective across.

Hints for telling the story:

1. Arrange your students so they can easily see you and are comfortable.

2. Don't be on time be early! Have your objects and visual aids all ready.

3. Be at ease. Pause for effect, use gestures, but make them natural and true to the story.

4. Create a story atmosphere. Look at all of your students. Watch their eyes.

5. Be clear. Avoid digressions and keep to the story.

6. Use simple and understandable words.

7. Use a resonant, unforced voice which can be heard easily.

8. Don't raise your voice to get attention. Instead, lower it.

9. Make students realize there is more than one person by turning from side to side. Change tones for each character.