This lesson teaches children that God was with David, helping him do the right things even when others were jealous of him. It works well for ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
God is with us when we do what is right, even when people are unkind or jealous. We can trust Him and keep doing good.
Memory Verse
1 Samuel 18:14
David behaved himself wisely in all his ways; and the LORD was with him.
(WEB)
Stand up tall with your arms stretched wide, like David walking out to do his job. Then give a big thumbs up and say the verse together. Repeat it three times while you move, and the children will remember it.
The Story: 1 Samuel 18 for Kids
David had just finished talking with King Saul, and something wonderful happened. His new friend Jonathan loved David as much as he loved himself. Jonathan gave David his own robe, his sword, his bow, and his belt. They made a promise to be good friends forever.
King Saul gave David an important job leading the soldiers. David did his work so wisely that everyone liked him, even Saul’s servants. When David came home from fighting the Philistines, the women of Israel came out singing and dancing. They sang, “Saul has killed thousands, and David has killed ten thousands!”
King Saul was very angry. He said, “What more can David want but my kingdom?” From that day on, Saul kept watching David closely. The next day, a bad spirit came over Saul, and he threw a spear at David. David ran away, but God kept him safe.
Saul was afraid of David, because God was with him. Saul made David a captain over a thousand men, and David kept going out and coming back, doing his job well. Everyone in Israel and Judah loved him. Saul’s fear grew bigger and bigger.
Saul promised David his older daughter Merab, but then gave her to someone else. Later, Saul’s younger daughter Michal loved David. Saul gave her to David too, hoping the Philistines would harm him. David went out and fought the Philistines and came back safely, so Saul gave him Michal as his wife.
Read It Together
1 Samuel 18:12
Saul was afraid of David, because the LORD was with him, and had departed from Saul.
(WEB)
Point out that Saul was afraid because God was with David. Explain that God’s presence brings peace to those who follow Him, while those who turn from Him can feel fear. Ask children how God helps us when we feel scared.
1 Samuel 18:16
But all Israel and Judah loved David; for he went out and came in before them.
(WEB)
Show the children that all Israel and Judah loved David because of how he lived. Point out that good behavior earns respect and friendship. Encourage them to show kindness to others at school or home.
1 Samuel 18:28-29
28 Saul saw and knew that the LORD was with David; and Michal, Saul’s daughter, loved him. 29 Saul was even more afraid of David; and Saul was David’s enemy continually.
(WEB)
Explain that Saul saw God was with David and became even more afraid. Help the children understand that jealousy can make a person unhappy and unkind. Talk about how we can choose to be glad for our friends instead.
Talk About It
- How did Jonathan show his love for David in this story?
- What made King Saul feel angry and jealous of David?
- How did David act when he had a hard job to do?
- Why do you think God kept David safe from Saul’s spear?
- What is one way you can be happy for a friend who gets something good?
Activity Ideas
Draw a Friendship Robe
Give each child a paper cutout of a robe, plus crayons, markers, and stickers. Ask them to decorate the robe with colors and shapes that remind them of a good friend. Let them share their robe with a partner and explain why they chose their design.
Stand Tall Movement Game
Have children stand in a line and take turns walking forward while the group sings a simple song. When someone reaches the front, they strike a strong pose like David and say, “God is with me!” Everyone then copies the pose and repeats the phrase together.
Take-Home Thankful Jar
Provide a small jar, slips of paper, and a pencil for each child. Ask them to write one thing they are thankful for about a friend and place it inside. Encourage families to read the notes together at dinner each week to remember that God is with us.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this passage shows how God remains faithful to those who walk with Him, even in the midst of hostility and envy. David’s success came from God’s presence, and his wise conduct earned the respect of many. It also reveals how sinful jealousy can grow from insecurity and disrupt relationships.
Avoid suggesting to children that obeying God guarantees they will never face mean people or unfair treatment. Keep the focus on God being with them and giving them courage and wisdom, rather than promising an easy life.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You that You are with us every day. Help us be kind and wise like David, and help us be glad when our friends do well. When we feel scared or jealous, remind us that You are close to us. Amen.
