In this lesson, children learn one simple truth: God carries us from birth to old age, and he is not like the idols that have to be carried by people. This lesson suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God is strong enough to carry us, and he never gets tired of carrying us. Idols are made of wood and metal and cannot carry anyone, so they have to be carried themselves.
Memory Verse
Isaiah 46:4
Even to old age I am he, and even to gray hairs I will carry you. I have made, and I will bear. Yes, I will carry, and will deliver.
(WEB)
Hold both arms out wide like a carrier, then bring them in close to your chest as if you were holding a sleeping baby. Say “God carries me” as you rock your arms gently from side to side.
The Story: Isaiah 46 for Kids
Long ago, the people of Israel lived far from home for a long time. The people of the nearby land of Babylon had gods named Bel and Nebo. These gods were made of wood and metal, and people had to carry them around on their backs and on animals.
The gods were very heavy, and they could not walk on their own. When trouble came, the gods could not help the people who carried them. Instead, they had to be carried away themselves, as heavy loads for weary animals.
Then God spoke to his own people, the family of Jacob. He said, “Listen to me. I have carried you since you were born, and I will carry you until you are old and gray.” God told them that he would not get tired and would not have to be lifted by anyone.
God asked them a question: “Who is like me? Can any idol do what I do?” He reminded them that he had planned everything long ago, and nothing could stop what he had said. He told them to remember that he alone is God.
God also promised to bring his salvation near, and he said it would not wait. He would rescue his people and show them his glory. The chapter ends with God’s kind promise to take care of the people he loves.
Read It Together
Isaiah 46:3
“Listen to me, house of Jacob, and all the remnant of the house of Israel, that have been carried from their birth, that have been carried from the womb.
(WEB)
Point out that God calls his people by saying they were carried from birth. Ask the children to think about who first held them as babies and remind them that God has held them even longer.
Isaiah 46:9
Remember the former things of old: for I am God, and there is no other. I am God, and there is none like me.
(WEB)
Show the children the words “there is no other” and explain that God is the only true God. Help them see that this truth gives them a reason to trust him.
Isaiah 46:13
I bring my righteousness near. It is not far off, and my salvation will not wait. I will grant salvation to Zion, my glory to Israel.
(WEB)
Point out that God says his salvation will not wait. Explain that God acts at the right time, and children can trust that he is near to help them.
Talk About It
- What are some things people carry every day, and how do they feel when they carry them for a long time?
- Why do you think the idols in this chapter could not carry the people who made them?
- How is God different from the idols that needed to be carried?
- When have you felt carried or helped by someone who loves you?
- What is one way you can remember that God is always with you?
Activity Ideas
Paper Plate Carrier Craft
You will need paper plates, crayons, yarn, and glue. Have each child draw a picture of God carrying them on one half of the plate, then fold the plate in half and glue yarn on the edges to make a handle. Let the children explain their picture to a family member when they finish.
Carry the Heavy Load Game
Gather a few heavy books or soup cans and a light object like a feather or a cotton ball. Have the children try to carry the heavy items for a short walk across the room, then carry the light item. Talk about how God carries us even when our burdens feel too heavy.
Take-Home Carrier Card
Cut index cards in half and write “God carries me from birth to old age” on each one. Let the children decorate the card with stickers or markers and place it by their bed or in their backpack. Encourage them to read it aloud each night and remember that God is always carrying them.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows the difference between the false gods of the nations and the true God of Israel. The idols must be carried, while God carries his people from the beginning of life to the end. It reminds believers that God’s care is steady, reliable, and based on his own faithfulness.
When teaching children, avoid overstating the idea that God will protect them from every hard thing in life. The chapter speaks of God’s power and faithfulness to his people, and it is best to keep the focus on his steady presence and care rather than promising particular outcomes.
A Prayer to Close
Dear Father, thank you for carrying us since we were born. Thank you that you are strong and never grow tired. Help us remember that you are the only true God, and help us trust you every day. Amen.
