In this lesson, children learn that God chose Saul to be the first king of Israel and gave him what he needed for the job. It suits children aged about 5 to 11 and takes 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God knows the right person for the job, and He helps that person do it. When God calls us, He gives us what we need, even when we feel small or unsure.
Memory Verse
1 Samuel 10:9
It was so, that when he had turned his back to go from Samuel, God gave him another heart; and all those signs happened that day.
(WEB)
Have the children stand up and turn around slowly in a full circle, then raise both hands high. Explain that this is what Saul did when God changed his heart, and it shows how God can change us too.
The Story: 1 Samuel 10 for Kids
The people of Israel wanted a king, so they asked God for one. God told Samuel, the prophet, to pick a man named Saul. Saul was tall and strong, and he came from a small family in the tribe of Benjamin.
Before Samuel gave Saul any job, he poured oil on Saul’s head. Samuel told him, “God has chosen you to lead His people.” Then Samuel gave Saul three signs that would show him God was with him. Saul would meet some men, and then a group of prophets singing and playing music.
When Saul met the prophets, God’s Spirit came on him in a powerful way. Saul began to prophesy along with them, and the people who knew him were amazed. They said, “Is Saul also among the prophets?” Even Saul was surprised at what God was doing in his life.
Later, Samuel called all the people together at Mizpah. Samuel reminded them that God had rescued them many times. Then the people chose a king by casting lots. The lot fell on Saul, but at first he was hiding among the bags and supplies!
When the people found Saul, he stood taller than anyone else. Samuel said, “Look at the man God has chosen!” Everyone shouted, “Long live the king!” Saul went home to Gibeah with brave men whose hearts God had touched.
Not everyone was happy. Some troublemakers said, “How can this man save us?” They refused to bring Saul any gifts. Saul did not argue with them. He stayed quiet and kept trusting God.
Read It Together
1 Samuel 10:6
Then the LORD’s Spirit will come mightily on you, and you will prophesy with them, and will be turned into another man.
(WEB)
Point out that God’s Spirit came on Saul and helped him do something new. Ask the children what helps them when they feel nervous about a new task.
1 Samuel 10:7
Let it be, when these signs have come to you, that you do what is appropriate for the occasion; for God is with you.
(WEB)
Show the children that Samuel told Saul God was with him. Explain that God is with us too, and we can do what is right because He is near.
1 Samuel 10:24
Samuel said to all the people, “Do you see him whom the LORD has chosen, that there is no one like him among all the people?” All the people shouted, and said, “Long live the king!”
(WEB)
Point out that Samuel showed the people the man God had chosen. Ask the children what it means that God chooses people for special jobs.
Talk About It
- What did Samuel do to show that God had chosen Saul?
- How do you think Saul felt when he met the prophets?
- Why did Saul hide among the bags when it was time to be made king?
- What did the people do when they saw Saul standing above everyone else?
- How can you trust God when you feel small or unsure of yourself?
Activity Ideas
Crown Drawing
Give each child a sheet of paper, crayons, and some stickers. Ask them to draw a crown and decorate it with things that remind them of God’s help. Let them take the crown home to show their family the story they learned.
Follow the Leader Movement
Play a simple game where one child leads the group in silly movements like hopping, spinning, or clapping. Then tell the children that God gave Saul what he needed to lead, just as the leader helps the group. Let different children take turns leading.
Oil and Blessing Card
Give each child a small card and a cotton ball. Have them write or draw one way God helps them each day. Let them keep the card at home as a reminder that God chooses and equips His people.
Teacher Notes
This passage shows that God sovereignly chooses leaders and prepares them for their work. For adults, it highlights that God’s Spirit empowers people for tasks they could not do on their own, and that God’s plans often unfold in ways we do not expect. The people’s desire for a king also reminds us that they were trusting in human leadership rather than God alone.
Avoid suggesting that God’s choice of Saul means every leader is chosen the same way or that a sign will always appear for everyone. Keep the focus on God’s faithfulness and presence rather than on specific miracles or guaranteed outcomes.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, thank You for choosing us and for helping us do what You ask. When we feel small or scared, remind us that You are with us. Help us trust You every day. Amen.
