This lesson teaches children that God is our Father who remembers His people, helps them, and keeps His promises even when they forget Him. It suits ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
God is our loving Father. He remembers us, He helps us, and He never stops caring for His children, even when we make mistakes.
Memory Verse
Isaiah 63:16
For you are our Father, though Abraham doesn’t know us, and Israel does not acknowledge us. You, the LORD, are our Father. Our Redeemer from everlasting is your name.
(WEB)
Put one hand on your chest and say “Father” while you tap your heart. Then open both arms wide and say “Our Father” to show that God holds us close.
The Story: Isaiah 63 for Kids
Long ago, God’s people, the Israelites, had a hard time. They had made God sad by turning away from Him and doing things that were wrong. Their enemies had come and trampled their holy city and their special place of worship. The people felt far away from God and wondered if He still cared about them.
The prophet Isaiah sat down to pray. He remembered how God had rescued the people long before, when they were slaves in Egypt. God had led them through the sea on dry ground, like a shepherd leading his sheep. Isaiah remembered that God had carried His people all through those years.
Isaiah prayed out loud, asking God to look down from heaven and see His people. He said, “Where is your strong love? Please show us your care again.” Isaiah was not hiding his feelings. He was honest with God about how lonely and scared the people felt.
Then Isaiah said something very important. He said, “You, Lord, are our Father.” Even though the people had done wrong, Isaiah knew God was still their Father. A father does not stop loving his children just because they have made a mistake.
Isaiah ended his prayer by asking God to come back to His people and help them. He trusted that God would be faithful, because God always keeps His promises. This is how the people learned that God’s love does not run out.
Read It Together
Isaiah 63:7
I will tell of the loving kindnesses of the LORD and the praises of the LORD, according to all that the LORD has given to us, and the great goodness toward the house of Israel, which he has given to them according to his mercies, and according to the multitude of his loving kindnesses.
(WEB)
Point out the word “loving kindnesses.” Explain that this means God’s kind and faithful love. Ask the children to name a time someone showed them kindness.
Isaiah 63:9
In all their affliction he was afflicted, and the angel of his presence saved them. In his love and in his pity he redeemed them. He bore them, and carried them all the days of old.
(WEB)
Show the children that God cared for His people in their trouble. Say that when we are hurting, God feels that with us. Let them know He lifts us up and carries us.
Talk About It
- What did the people of Israel forget about God, and how did that make them feel?
- How does it feel to know that your father or mother loves you even when you do something wrong?
- What did Isaiah remember about God that helped him pray?
- Why do you think God wanted His people to come back to Him?
- What is one way you can tell God that you need His help this week?
Activity Ideas
Draw a Helping Hand
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and scissors. Have each child trace their hand on the paper and cut it out. On each finger, have them draw or write one thing God has done for them, such as giving food, family, or friends. Talk about how God’s hand is always ready to help.
Shepherd and Sheep Game
You will need a open space and a blindfold or a pillow. Choose one child to be the shepherd and the rest to be sheep. The shepherd gently guides the sheep around the room with a soft voice while they follow. Explain that God leads and carries His people like a shepherd, and that His voice helps us find our way.
Father’s Promise Card
You will need a index card, a pencil, and a marker. Have each child write “God is my Father” on one side and draw a heart on the other. Encourage them to take it home and place it by their bed. Ask them to read it each night and thank God for loving them.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that God remains faithful to His people even when they have turned away from Him. Isaiah does not pretend the people are doing well. He honestly asks God to return and show His care. The chapter reminds us that God’s love is steady, and that He is our Father who remembers and redeems His children.
When teaching children, avoid overstating the chapter’s harsh imagery of trampling and wrath. Keep the focus on God’s kindness, His presence, and His faithful love. Children do not need the battle scenes explained in detail, only the truth that God cares for His people.
A Prayer to Close
Father, thank You that You are our Father and You love us very much. Thank You for remembering us and helping us when we need You. Help us to trust You, to come back to You when we make mistakes, and to know that You always keep Your promises. Amen.
