This lesson teaches children that God sees everything and keeps His promises, even when people make mistakes. It is suited to ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including the story, reading, and one activity.
Big Idea
God knows what is true and right, and He protects His people even when they are afraid or make wrong choices.
Memory Verse
Genesis 20:17
Abraham prayed to God. God healed Abimelech, and his wife, and his female servants, and they bore children.
(WEB)
Teach children to cup both hands over their eyes, then slowly open them wide as they say the words. The motion helps them remember that God heals and helps, and that prayer makes a difference.
The Story: Genesis 20 for Kids
Abraham and his wife Sarah moved to a land called Gerar. Abraham was afraid that the king there would take Sarah away and hurt him, so he told the people that Sarah was his sister. This was only part of the truth, because Sarah was really his wife. Abraham was scared and did not trust God to keep them safe.
King Abimelech heard about Sarah and sent for her, and he took her into his house. But God came to Abimelech in a dream at night. God told him that Sarah was a married woman and that taking her would be a serious wrong. Abimelech had not touched her, and he said to God, “Lord, I did this with a clear heart and innocent hands.”
God knew Abimelech’s heart. He told the king to give Sarah back to Abraham, because Abraham was a prophet who would pray for him. The next morning Abimelech was very frightened. He called his servants together and told them everything God had said.
Abimelech called Abraham in and asked him why he had lied and put the whole kingdom in danger. Abraham admitted that he had been afraid. He explained that he thought the people in that place did not fear God, and he had worried they would hurt him to get Sarah.
Abimelech gave Abraham sheep, cattle, and servants, and he gave Sarah back to him. He also invited Abraham to live in his land wherever he liked. Then Abraham prayed to God, and God healed Abimelech and his household so they could have children again. God had closed the wombs of the women in that house because of what had happened to Sarah.
Read It Together
Genesis 20:3
But God came to Abimelech in a dream of the night, and said to him, “Behold, you are a dead man, because of the woman whom you have taken. For she is a man’s wife.”
(WEB)
Point out that God spoke to Abimelech in a dream. Explain that God cares about what is right and wrong, and He can speak to people in many ways, even when they do not expect it.
Genesis 20:6
God said to him in the dream, “Yes, I know that in the integrity of your heart you have done this, and I also withheld you from sinning against me. Therefore I didn’t allow you to touch her.
(WEB)
Show children that God says He kept Abimelech from sinning. Explain that God protects people from doing harm, and that He is always watching over what is good.
Genesis 20:7
Now therefore, restore the man’s wife. For he is a prophet, and he will pray for you, and you will live. If you don’t restore her, know for sure that you will die, you, and all who are yours.”
(WEB)
Point out that God calls Abraham a prophet and says Abraham will pray for Abimelech. Talk about how prayer helps others and how God answers prayers from people who trust Him.
Talk About It
- Why do you think Abraham was afraid, and what could he have done instead?
- How did God take care of Sarah even when she was in a hard place?
- What did King Abimelech do right when he heard God’s warning?
- Can you remember a time when you were scared? What helped you feel better?
- How can you ask God to help you tell the truth when it is hard?
Activity Ideas
Draw a Dream Picture
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask each child to draw a picture of what Abimelech might have seen in his dream, such as God speaking in the night sky or a bright light by his bed. Let them talk about their drawing and what it shows about God being near.
Shadow Sheep and Servants
You will need a sheet, a flashlight, and small objects like toy animals or folded paper people. Hang the sheet across a doorway and shine the flashlight behind it. Children move the objects to act out Abraham receiving gifts from Abimelech, then talk about how God turned a fearful moment into a time of blessing.
Truth Reminder Card
You will need an index card, a marker, and a small pocket or wallet. Have each child write or draw one simple reminder, such as “God sees my heart” or “I can tell the truth.” Send the card home so they can read it at bedtime and share it with someone in the family.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that God keeps His purposes even when His people are afraid and act unwisely. Abraham’s fear led him to half-truths, yet God still protected Sarah, Abimelech, and the whole household. It also shows God’s faithfulness and His concern for justice among all people, not only those who follow Him.
Avoid suggesting to children that obeying God means nothing bad will ever happen to them. Stories like this one show God’s protection, but children should understand that God’s care is about His character and love, not a promise that every fear disappears.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You that You see everything and know our hearts. When we feel scared, help us to trust You and to tell the truth. Thank You for protecting us and for hearing our prayers. Help us to pray for others too. Amen.
