This lesson teaches children that God is faithful to save and remember His people, even when they forget Him. It works well for kids ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including the story, questions, and a short activity.
Big Idea
God loves His people, remembers them, and always keeps His promises. When we feel lost or far away, He is still close and still ready to save us.
Memory Verse
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)
Have children place one hand on their heart while they say the verse, then lift both arms high like a rescuer lifting someone out of the water. Practice it three times, getting a little quieter each time until the room is whispering it.
The Story: Isaiah 63 for Kids
Long ago, the prophet Isaiah sang a song about God. He told everyone that the Lord is good and that He keeps His promises. The people of Israel had been through many hard times, and God had been with them through every one of them.
The Israelites had a long history with God. Years earlier, God led their ancestors out of Egypt, through the waters of the Red Sea, and across the wilderness. He carried them like a shepherd carries a lamb. When they were in trouble, God was in trouble with them, and He saved them.
But the people did not always obey. They turned away from God and hurt His heart. Isaiah said that God felt sad about this, and He did not stop loving them. Still, the people had forgotten how good He had been. They asked, “Lord, where are You now?”
Isaiah prayed and asked God to look down from heaven and remember His people. He reminded God that He was their Father and their Redeemer. Isaiah said, “You, Lord, are our Father.” He was asking God to come back close to His children.
The story teaches us that God never stops remembering His people. Even when they wandered away, He was ready to welcome them home. God is faithful, and He always keeps His word.
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.” Ask children to name something kind that someone has done for them this week, then connect it to how God is always kind to His people.
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)
Show children the phrase “You, the LORD, are our Father.” Explain that God is not far away like a stranger; He is a loving parent who knows each of them by name.
Talk About It
- What did God do to help the people of Israel when they were in trouble?
- How did the people sometimes forget about God, and how do you think that made God feel?
- What is one thing you can say to God when you feel far away from Him?
- Why do you think it matters that God calls Himself our Father?
- How can you remember that God is always ready to help you?
Activity Ideas
Hand Rescue Drawing
You will need paper, crayons, and a pencil. Have each child trace their hand on the paper and write “God carries me” inside the outline. Let them decorate the hand with colors and small pictures of things God has made, like trees, sun, or animals. Hang the finished drawings where children can see them during the week.
Shepherd and Sheep Game
Choose one child to be the shepherd and gather the others as sheep in a circle. The shepherd walks around the outside and gently “finds” each sheep by tapping their shoulder and saying, “I remember you.” Switch roles so everyone has a turn. Talk afterward about how God knows and remembers each of His people.
Take-Home Promise Card
Give each child an index card and a marker. Have them write “God remembers me” on one side and draw a small heart on the other. Ask them to keep the card in a pocket or backpack and read it aloud at bedtime. This helps the lesson stay with them through the week.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows God’s faithfulness toward His people even when they rebel against Him. Isaiah does not hide the people’s failures, yet he holds on to God’s steady love, mercy, and promise to save. It is a reminder that God’s character does not change based on how we act.
With children, avoid implying that God is angry or cruel toward them. Keep the focus on His love, His faithfulness, and His care. The chapter includes strong images of judgment, so keep the lesson centered on God’s kindness and memory of His people rather than the harder scenes.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You for loving us and remembering us every day. Thank You for carrying us when we feel small and for always keeping Your promises. Help us remember that You are our Father and that You are always close to us. We love You, and we trust You to take care of us. Amen.
