In this lesson, children learn that God is worthy of thanks and praise, and that they can thank Him by telling others about the good things He has done. This lesson is for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God is good, and we can thank Him by singing, praying, and telling everyone about the wonderful things He has done.
Memory Verse
1 Chronicles 16:34
Oh give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his loving kindness endures forever.
(WEB)
Teach the children to put one hand on their heart and then lift both arms up high on the word “thanks.” Repeat it together three times, moving slowly and then faster, so the words stick.
The Story: 1 Chronicles 16 for Kids
A long time ago, King David was the leader of Israel. He wanted the people to remember that God was with them. So David brought the ark of God, a special box that showed God’s presence, into a tent in Jerusalem. The whole crowd was excited, and they gathered to celebrate.
When the ark arrived, David gave everyone a gift. Every man and woman got a loaf of bread, a piece of meat, and a cake made of raisins. Then David chose some Levites, the helpers of the priests, to sing and play instruments before the ark. Some played harps, some played cymbals, and some blew trumpets.
David said, “Give thanks to the Lord! Tell the people everything He has done.” The singers filled the air with praise. They sang that God is great, that He is worthy to be honored, and that His love lasts forever.
The song also reminded the people of God’s promises. God had cared for Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Even when their families were small and far from home, God kept them safe. Everyone listened closely and remembered that God always keeps His word.
At the end of the day, all the people sang “Amen” together. Then they went home happy. David went back to his own house to bless his family.
Read It Together
1 Chronicles 16:8
Oh give thanks to the LORD. Call on his name. Make what he has done known among the peoples.
(WEB)
Point out the three simple actions in this verse: give thanks, call on His name, and make His deeds known. Ask the children to name one thing they could tell a friend about God.
1 Chronicles 16:11
Seek the LORD and his strength. Seek his face forever more.
(WEB)
Show how this verse says we should look for the Lord and His strength all the time. Explain that seeking God means spending time with Him in prayer and reading His Word.
1 Chronicles 16:31
Let the heavens be glad, and let the earth rejoice! Let them say among the nations, “The LORD reigns!”
(WEB)
Point to the big picture here: the heavens and the earth are called to be happy because the Lord is King. Let the children act out gladness, like jumping or clapping, to show how creation rejoices.
Talk About It
- What are some good things God has done for you this week?
- How did the people in the story show that they were thankful?
- Why do you think David wanted everyone to sing about God?
- What is one way you can tell someone else about how good God is?
- How can you remember that God keeps His promises even when things feel hard?
Activity Ideas
Thank-You Drawing
Give each child a sheet of paper and crayons or markers. Ask them to draw one thing they are thankful to God for, such as family, food, or a sunny day. Let them share their pictures with the group and hang them on a wall as a thankful gallery.
Praise Parade
Gather simple instruments like pots, wooden spoons, a tambourine, or a rattling cup of dried beans. Lead the children in a marching parade around the room while they sing a short praise song, such as one that repeats “Give thanks to the Lord.” Let each child take a turn leading the parade.
Thankful Jar at Home
Provide a clean jar, some slips of paper, and a pen. Ask the family to write one thing they are thankful for each day and drop it in the jar. Encourage them to read the notes together at the end of the week to remember God’s goodness.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that worship is both personal and public. David’s song calls God’s people to remember His covenant, celebrate His faithfulness, and invite the wider world to join in praise. It reminds us that thanksgiving is a response to who God is, not just what He gives.
When teaching children, avoid suggesting that God only blesses people who sing or perform well. The point is a grateful heart, not a perfect performance. Keep the focus on God’s character and love rather than on promising specific rewards for praise.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, thank You for being good and for loving us forever. Help us to tell others about You and to sing Your praise every day. Keep us close to You as we seek You with our whole hearts. Amen.
