This lesson teaches children that God wants us to love other people, take care of them, and trust Him every day. It is designed for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God helps us love people well, and He never leaves us. When we love others and trust Him, we are following Jesus.
Memory Verse
Hebrews 13:5
Be free from the love of money, content with such things as you have, for he has said, “I will in no way leave you, neither will I in any way forsake you.”
(WEB)
Have children hold both hands in front of their chest, then slowly open their arms wide, like a hug. Say the verse together while you hug the air. This motion helps them remember that God holds on to us.
The Story: Hebrews 13 for Kids
The writer of this letter wanted his friends to keep loving each other. He reminded them that people who were in trouble needed help. Some were in prison, and some were sick or treated unfairly. He said, “Remember them, as if you were in their place.”
He also told them to welcome strangers into their homes. Some people had done this and had met angels without even knowing it. What a surprise that would be! Kindness can open the door to new friends and new blessings.
The writer talked about money and being happy with what we have. He said that God promised He would never leave us. Then he wrote that we can say, “The Lord is my helper, so I will not be afraid.”
He reminded them to remember their leaders who had taught them God’s word. They should copy the faith of those leaders. He also said that Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Jesus never changes, and He is always faithful.
Finally, the writer asked his friends to pray for him. He wanted to live in a way that was honest and good. He ended the letter by asking God to make them complete in every good work. He wished them God’s grace.
Read It Together
Hebrews 13:1-2
1 Let brotherly love continue. 2 Don’t forget to show hospitality to strangers, for in doing so, some have entertained angels without knowing it.
(WEB)
Point out that loving others starts with being kind to people we know and people we do not know. Ask children what it might look like to welcome a new kid at school or a visitor at church.
Hebrews 13:8
Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.
(WEB)
Show children that Jesus never changes. Explain that even when things around us change, Jesus stays the same, so we can always count on Him.
Hebrews 13:16
But don’t forget to be doing good and sharing, for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.
(WEB)
Point out that doing good and sharing make God happy. Talk about simple ways children can share their toys, time, or kind words with others this week.
Talk About It
- What is one way you could show kindness to someone who feels lonely?
- Why do you think God wants us to remember people who are in trouble?
- How does it feel to know that God will never leave you alone?
- What is something Jesus has done for you that you are thankful for?
- Who is a leader or teacher who has helped you learn about God, and how can you thank them?
Activity Ideas
Hand Print Hug Craft
You will need construction paper, crayons, scissors, and glue. Have each child trace their hand on the paper and cut it out. On the palm, they can write or draw one way they can show love to someone this week. Glue the hands on a poster titled “God Helps Us Love Others.”
Stranger Greeting Game
Set up two chairs at opposite ends of the room. Children walk across the room and greet each other in a friendly way, saying “Hello, friend!” Then they sit down together and share one thing they like. This game helps children practice welcoming new people.
Take Home Promise Card
Give each child an index card and a pencil. Ask them to write “God will never leave me” on one side and draw a small heart on the other. Encourage them to put the card in a pocket or backpack so they can see it during the week and remember God’s promise.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that faith is seen in everyday actions like kindness, generosity, and faithfulness to others. The writer links love for people with trust in God’s constant presence and care. Jesus is presented as unchanging, which gives believers stability.
Avoid overstating to children that God will always make life easy or safe. The passage teaches God’s presence and faithfulness, not guaranteed comfort or freedom from hardship. Focus on God’s love and help rather than promises about outcomes.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You for loving us and never leaving us. Help us show kindness to others, especially to people who feel alone. Help us trust You every day because You never change. Thank You for Jesus, who is the same yesterday, today, and forever. Amen.
