In 2 Chronicles 17, King Jehoshaphat teaches us that when we follow God and go looking for Him, He helps us and makes our lives strong. This lesson is for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
When we love God and do what He says, God helps us and blesses us. We can ask God to help us every day.
Memory Verse
2 Chronicles 16:9
For the LORD’s eyes run back and forth throughout the whole earth, to show himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him. You have done foolishly in this; for from now on you will have wars.”
(WEB)
Teach the children to cup their hands in front of their eyes, then move them outward like they are looking all over the world. As you say the verse together, do this motion slowly. It reminds us that God is always looking for people who love Him.
The Story: 2 Chronicles 17 for Kids
A long time ago, there was a king named Jehoshaphat in the land of Judah. His father, King Asa, had died, and now Jehoshaphat was the king. He wanted his kingdom to be strong, so he got ready. He put soldiers in all the strong cities of Judah. He also put guards in the cities that his father had taken from enemies.
Jehoshaphat did something very important. He chose to follow the God of his father David. He did not go after the false gods called Baals, which many people in other places worshiped. Instead, he sought the LORD with his whole heart. He walked in God’s commandments and did not copy the wicked ways of the people of Israel.
Because Jehoshaphat loved God, God made his kingdom strong. People from Judah brought gifts to the king, and he had great riches and honor. Jehoshaphat’s heart was happy to follow God. He even took away the high places and the Asherah poles, which were places where people worshiped false gods.
In the third year of his reign, Jehoshaphat sent leaders and priests through all the cities of Judah. They carried the book of the LORD’s law with them. They taught the people about God’s rules. The people began to learn that God is good and that they should fear and obey Him.
When the kingdoms around Judah heard about God’s power, they were afraid. None of them wanted to fight against Jehoshaphat. Some people even brought him gifts. Jehoshaphat became very great, and he built strong towns and fortresses to keep his people safe.
Read It Together
2 Chronicles 17:3-4
3 The LORD was with Jehoshaphat, because he walked in the first ways of his father David, and didn’t seek the Baals, 4 but sought to the God of his father, and walked in his commandments, and not in the ways of Israel.
(WEB)
Point out that Jehoshaphat chose to seek the God of his father, and that he did not follow the ways of others. Ask the children what it looks like to follow God in our own homes and schools.
2 Chronicles 17:5
Therefore the LORD established the kingdom in his hand. All Judah brought tribute to Jehoshaphat, and he had riches and honor in abundance.
(WEB)
Show the children that God established the kingdom because Jehoshaphat trusted Him. Help them see that God’s blessings come from Him, not from the king’s own strength alone.
2 Chronicles 17:9
They taught in Judah, having the book of the LORD’s law with them. They went about throughout all the cities of Judah and taught among the people.
(WEB)
Point out that the leaders took God’s teaching to every city. Explain that learning and sharing God’s word is an important way we can help others know Him.
Talk About It
- What did King Jehoshaphat choose to do with his heart?
- Why do you think God blessed Jehoshaphat and his kingdom?
- What are some ways we can learn about God’s rules at home?
- How can we show God that we want to follow Him every day?
- Why is it good to ask God for help when we feel afraid?
Activity Ideas
Draw a Strong City Wall
Give each child a sheet of paper, crayons, and a pencil. Ask them to draw a strong city with tall walls, a gate, and a flag. Inside the wall, have them draw a small picture of a Bible, showing that God’s word keeps our hearts safe. Talk about how God is our strong protection.
Follow the Leader Walk
Choose one child to be the “king” and lead the group around the room or yard. Everyone must follow the leader exactly, just as Jehoshaphat followed God’s ways. After a few minutes, switch leaders. Talk about how it feels to follow a good leader and how we can follow God every day.
Take-Home Heart Card
Cut heart shapes from colored paper, one for each child. Write “Seek God with all my heart” on the front. Send the card home with each child and ask them to tape it to their bedroom door or refrigerator. Encourage the family to read it together at dinner this week.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that God is pleased when His people seek Him sincerely and walk in His ways. Jehoshaphat’s faithfulness brought stability and peace to Judah, and his commitment to teaching God’s law shows the value of spreading God’s truth to others. The passage reminds us that wholehearted devotion matters in every season of life.
When teaching children, avoid suggesting that following God guarantees wealth, victory, or an easy life. Keep the focus on God’s faithfulness and loving character rather than on material blessings, so children understand that God is trustworthy whether times are good or hard.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, we want to seek You with all our hearts. Help us follow Your ways, just like King Jehoshaphat did. Thank You for being our strong protection and for teaching us Your word. Please help us love You every day. Amen.
