In this lesson, children learn that King David prepared everything for God’s house and then encouraged his son Solomon to be strong and courageous as he built it. This lesson suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
God is faithful, so we can be brave and get to work on what he asks us to do, even when the job feels big.
Memory Verse
1 Chronicles 22:13
Then you will prosper, if you observe to do the statutes and the ordinances which the LORD gave Moses concerning Israel. Be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid, and don’t be dismayed.
(WEB)
Have children stand tall, raise both fists like a strong person, and shout “Be strong!” then give a gentle thumbs-up and whisper “Don’t be afraid.” Repeat the motions three times until everyone can do them without looking.
The Story: 1 Chronicles 22 for Kids
King David wanted to build a special house for God in the city of Jerusalem. God had told David that he had fought many wars and shed much blood, so God would not let David build the house himself. Instead, God promised that David’s son Solomon would build it, and Solomon would be a man of peace.
David was very happy to help his son get ready. He gathered masons to cut stone, and he collected iron for nails and brass that could not even be weighed because there was so much. People from Sidon and Tyre brought cedar trees to David, and he had more than he could count.
Then David called Solomon to his side. He said, “My son, be strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid, and don’t be dismayed. The Lord will be with you.” David was saying that God would help Solomon do the work well.
David also told all the leaders of Israel to help Solomon. He asked them, “Isn’t the Lord your God with you? He has given you rest on every side.” David wanted everyone to remember that God had already been good to them.
Last, David told the leaders to set their hearts and souls to follow the Lord. They would build the holy house and bring the special ark of the covenant into it. Everyone was ready to begin the work together.
Read It Together
1 Chronicles 22:5
David said, “Solomon my son is young and tender, and the house that is to be built for the LORD must be exceedingly magnificent, of fame and of glory throughout all countries. I will therefore make preparation for it.” So David prepared abundantly before his death.
(WEB)
Point out that David got ready for the house before he died, even though his son would be the one to build it. Ask children what it looks like to plan ahead and help someone else finish a good job.
1 Chronicles 22:11
Now, my son, may the LORD be with you and prosper you, and build the house of the LORD your God, as he has spoken concerning you.
(WEB)
Show that David prayed for Solomon, asking the Lord to be with him and help him. Explain that praying for people is one of the best ways to show we care about them.
1 Chronicles 22:18
“Isn’t the LORD your God with you? Hasn’t he given you rest on every side? For he has delivered the inhabitants of the land into my hand; and the land is subdued before the LORD, and before his people.
(WEB)
Point out that David reminded the leaders that God had given them rest from their enemies. Encourage children to name something God has done for them this week.
Talk About It
- What did David want to build for God, and why do you think it mattered to him?
- Why do you think God chose Solomon to build the house instead of David?
- What did David tell Solomon to be when he felt scared about the big job?
- What is a big job you have had to do, and how did you feel about it?
- How can you be strong and courageous when you have something hard to do this week?
Activity Ideas
Build a Stone Temple Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask children to draw a tall house with a door and windows, then color each stone a different shade to show the masons cutting many stones. Talk about how many small pieces it takes to make one strong building, just like many people working together.
Be Strong and Courageous Freeze Dance
Play some music and let children dance around the room. When the music stops, have everyone freeze and make a strong pose while saying “Be strong and courageous!” Start the music again and repeat several times, changing the pose each round.
Take-Home Courage Card
Give each child an index card and a marker. Have them write or draw one hard thing they need to do this week and a picture of themselves being brave. Encourage them to place the card on their bedroom door or by their bed so they can say the memory verse each morning.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that God often works through people across generations. David was not allowed to build the temple, yet he made careful preparations and trusted God’s promise to Solomon. The passage also reminds us that God gives strength and encouragement for the work he gives us.
With children, avoid suggesting that God rewards good behavior with easy lives. Keep the focus on God’s presence and faithfulness rather than on promises of success or the removal of all fear.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, thank you for being with us in every big job we face. Help us to be strong and courageous, and to work hard for you. Give us hearts that want to follow you every day. Amen.
