In 1 Kings 1, God’s plan for who would become king came true even when someone tried to take the throne first. Children ages 5 to 11 can learn this lesson in 20 to 30 minutes, and the big idea is easy to repeat: God keeps His promises, even when others try to change things.
Big Idea
God always keeps His promises. People can try to get what they want, but God’s plan stands strong, and we can trust Him to take care of His people.
Memory Verse
1 Kings 1:30
Most certainly as I swore to you by the LORD, the God of Israel, saying, ‘Assuredly Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit on my throne in my place;’ I will most certainly do this today.”
(WEB)
Have the children sit tall and hold both hands out flat, palms up, like they are receiving a gift. As you say the verse together, bring your hands slowly to your heart. Repeat it three times, getting a little softer each time, until everyone can say it with their eyes closed.
The Story: 1 Kings 1 for Kids
King David was very old now. His body was weak, and no matter how many blankets his servants piled on him, he could not stay warm. His helpers had an idea. They looked all over the land of Israel until they found a beautiful young woman named Abishag. She came to take care of the king and keep him warm.
Meanwhile, one of David’s sons, Adonijah, decided he wanted to be king. He gathered chariots, horsemen, and fifty men to run in front of him. He invited his friends, including Joab and Abiathar the priest, to a big feast. But he did not invite Nathan the prophet, Zadok the priest, or his brother Solomon.
Nathan knew that King David had promised that Solomon would be the next king. So Nathan went to Solomon’s mother, Bathsheba, and said, “Go to the king and remind him of his promise.” She went in to David and bowed low. She told him, “My lord, you promised that Solomon would sit on your throne, but Adonijah is already acting like the king!”
While Bathsheba was still speaking, Nathan came in and told David the same thing. David remembered his promise right away. He called for Zadok, Nathan, and Benaiah, and gave them clear instructions: “Take Solomon on my own mule to Gihon and anoint him king.”
They did exactly what David said. Zadok took oil from the Tent and poured it on Solomon’s head. Trumpets blared, and the people shouted, “Long live King Solomon!” The sound was so loud that it reached the guests at Adonijah’s feast.
When Adonijah heard the news, he was scared. He ran to the altar and grabbed its horns, which was a way of asking for mercy. Solomon said that if Adonijah was a good man, he would be safe. So Solomon sent him home, and God’s plan went forward.
Read It Together
1 Kings 1:13
Go in to king David, and tell him, ‘Didn’t you, my lord, king, swear to your servant, saying, “Assuredly Solomon your son shall reign after me, and he shall sit on my throne?” Why then does Adonijah reign?’
(WEB)
Point out that Bathsheba did not make up a new plan. She reminded King David of what he had already promised. Ask the children to name a promise someone has made to them, and talk about how remembering promises matters.
1 Kings 1:34-35
34 Let Zadok the priest and Nathan the prophet anoint him there king over Israel. Blow the trumpet, and say, ‘Long live king Solomon!’ 35 Then come up after him, and he shall come and sit on my throne; for he shall be king in my place. I have appointed him to be prince over Israel and over Judah.”
(WEB)
Show how David gave clear directions so that God’s choice of Solomon could happen. Explain that good leaders listen to God and then act. Ask the children what helpful instructions they have received from a parent or teacher.
1 Kings 1:52
Solomon said, “If he shows himself a worthy man, not a hair of his shall fall to the earth; but if wickedness is found in him, he shall die.”
(WEB)
Point out that Solomon showed mercy to Adonijah when he came to the altar. Explain that God cares about kindness and fair treatment. Help the children think about a time they could show mercy to someone who made a mistake.
Talk About It
- What did Adonijah do that was wrong, and how could he have acted differently?
- How did Nathan and Bathsheba help King David remember what God wanted?
- Why do you think it was important for David to keep his promise to Solomon?
- What did Solomon do when Adonijah ran to the altar, and why was that kind?
- When have you seen God keep a promise in your life or in a Bible story?
Activity Ideas
Crown Drawing Craft
You will need paper, crayons or markers, scissors, and tape. Have each child draw and cut out a crown, then decorate it with jewels and designs. Tape the crowns together into a strip, or let children wear their own. As they work, remind them that God chose Solomon to be king and that God keeps His promises.
Mule Ride Movement Game
You will need a open space and a few soft objects, such as pillows or stuffed animals. Set up a simple path, and have children take turns carefully “riding” a pillow or stuffed animal from one side to the other, carrying it like a precious gift. Each time they finish, have them shout together, “Long live King Solomon!” This helps children remember the joyful parade.
Promise Keeper Take-Home Card
You will need index cards, a pen, and a small envelope for each child. Ask each child to write or draw one promise God has made in the Bible, such as God being with us. Have them place the card in the envelope to take home. Encourage families to read the card together during the week and talk about one way God keeps His promises.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that God’s plan does not depend on human schemes. Adonijah tried to take the throne through his own power, but God had already spoken through David and the prophet Nathan. The passage also shows the value of wise counsel, as Nathan and Bathsheba acted together to bring the truth before the king.
When teaching children, avoid overstating that God will always make our personal plans come true. The story is about God’s specific promise to David and Solomon. Instead, emphasize that God is faithful and trustworthy, and that we can trust Him even when life feels uncertain.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You that You always keep Your promises. Help us trust You when things feel uncertain, and help us be kind and fair to others, just like Solomon was. Thank You for loving us and caring for us every day. Amen.
