In this lesson, children learn that God wants us to grow strong in faith the way we grow strong in our bodies, by practicing good things every day. This lesson is for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God gives us good things to enjoy, and we keep our hearts close to Him by practicing godliness every day, just like exercise makes our bodies strong.
Memory Verse
1 Timothy 4:12
Let no man despise your youth; but be an example to those who believe, in word, in your way of life, in love, in spirit, in faith, and in purity.
(WEB)
Teach children to stand tall, put one hand on their heart, and then lift both arms up high as they say the verse together. Repeat it three times, getting a little quieter each time, so the words settle in their hearts.
The Story: 1 Timothy 4 for Kids
A long time ago, a man named Paul wrote a letter to his young friend Timothy. Timothy was a leader in the church, and some people thought he was too young to be a leader. Paul wanted Timothy to know that he could still set a good example for everyone.
Paul warned Timothy that some people would stop following Jesus. They would listen to false teachers who told lies. Some of these teachers said people should not get married, and they said some good foods were not allowed. Paul said that God made all of these good things to be enjoyed with thanks.
Then Paul gave Timothy some wise advice. He said, “Refuse the silly stories that do not help anyone, and train yourself to be godly.” Paul compared this to exercise. Running and stretching help your body a little, but loving God helps you in every part of your life.
Paul told Timothy to keep reading the Scriptures, to encourage others, and to teach what is true. He reminded Timothy that his life would show people what following Jesus looks like. Paul said, “Keep working hard at these things so everyone can see you are growing.”
Paul ended his advice by saying that if Timothy kept paying close attention to his life and his teaching, he would help save himself and the people who listened to him.
Read It Together
1 Timothy 4:4-5
4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, if it is received with thanksgiving. 5 For it is sanctified through the word of God and prayer.
(WEB)
Point out that God created good things, and we can thank Him for food and other gifts. Ask children to name something they are thankful for today, and connect it to God’s goodness.
1 Timothy 4:7-8
7 But refuse profane and old wives’ fables. Exercise yourself toward godliness. 8 For bodily exercise has some value, but godliness has value in all things, having the promise of the life which is now, and of that which is to come.
(WEB)
Show children how Paul compares training the body with training the heart. Ask them to think of one way they practice being kind or honest, the same way an athlete practices a sport.
1 Timothy 4:13
Until I come, pay attention to reading, to exhortation, and to teaching.
(WEB)
Point out the three things Paul asks Timothy to focus on: reading God’s Word, encouraging others, and teaching. Explain that children can do these same things by reading their Bibles and sharing kind words with friends.
Talk About It
- What is one good thing God made that you really enjoy?
- How is growing in God’s love like exercising your body?
- What are some silly or untrue things people might say that we should not believe?
- How can your actions show other people what Jesus is like?
- What is one way you can practice loving God this week?
Activity Ideas
Strong Heart Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask each child to draw a big heart and fill it with things they can do to love God, such as praying, helping at home, or sharing. Have them explain their drawing to the group. Hang the pictures on the wall as a reminder that a strong heart grows through daily practice.
Train Like a Champion
Clear some space in the room and gather a few soft items, such as pillows or stuffed animals, for a simple obstacle course. Let children take turns jumping, crawling, and stretching while the group cheers. Afterward, ask them how practicing again and again made the moves easier, and connect that to practicing godly habits.
Thankful Jar at Home
You will need an empty jar, paper slips, and a pen. Each day, have the child write one good thing God has given them and drop it in the jar. Read the notes together at the end of the week. This simple habit helps children practice thankfulness, which Paul says is part of receiving God’s good gifts.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter reminds us that the Christian life is shaped by steady, daily faithfulness rather than by quick fixes or strict rules that ignore God’s good gifts. Paul urges believers to receive creation with thanksgiving and to train themselves in godliness, which includes sound teaching, prayer, and a life that matches what we say we believe.
When teaching children, avoid suggesting that good behavior earns God’s love, since the text presents godliness as a response to a God who has already been faithful and who saves those who believe. Keep the focus on gratitude and growing closer to Him.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You for the good things You have made for us to enjoy. Help us train our hearts to love You every day, the way we practice things we want to get better at. Help us be kind and honest, so others can see You in how we live. Amen.
