This lesson teaches children that God comforts His people like a loving mother and that He keeps His promises to bring them joy. It is best for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God loves His people and comforts them, even when they feel sad or afraid. He always keeps His word, and He brings His people home with joy.
Memory Verse
Isaiah 66:13
As one whom his mother comforts, so will I comfort you. You will be comforted in Jerusalem.”
(WEB)
Put your arms around yourself in a big hug while you say the verse. Then rock gently from side to side, the way a mother rocks a little baby. Do this every time you say it, and the motion will help you remember that God comforts you.
The Story: Isaiah 66 for Kids
A long time ago, God spoke through a prophet named Isaiah. God’s people had been away from their home city of Jerusalem, and many of them felt very sad. Some of them were poor, and some had been treated badly by people who did not love God. Isaiah wanted them to know that God was still watching over them.
God said that He is so great that the whole sky is His throne and the earth is His footstool. Still, He does not look first at the big, fancy houses people build for Him. Instead, God looks to the person who is humble and who trembles at His word, which means they take God’s words seriously and honor Him.
Then God spoke about His beloved city, Jerusalem. He said, “Rejoice with Jerusalem, all you who love her.” God promised that His people would be comforted, like a child who is held close by a mother who loves them. He told them that He would bring peace to them like a river that never runs dry.
God also promised that one day people from many nations would come to Jerusalem to worship Him. He said they would come and see His glory. The people who heard this word were filled with hope, because God never breaks His promises. Isaiah reminded everyone that the Lord is faithful and that He cares deeply for His children.
Read It Together
Isaiah 66:1
The LORD says, “Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build to me? Where will I rest?
(WEB)
Point out that God is so big that heaven is like His throne and the earth is like a footstool under His feet. Ask the children what they think it means that God is that great. Then remind them that He is also close to them.
Isaiah 66:2
For my hand has made all these things, and so all these things came to be,” says the LORD: “but to this man will I look, even to he who is poor and of a contrite spirit, and who trembles at my word.
(WEB)
Show the children that God looks kindly on people who are humble and who listen carefully to Him. Explain that being humble means knowing we need God’s help. Ask how we can show God we are listening to Him.
Isaiah 66:12-13
12 For the LORD says, “Behold, I will extend peace to her like a river, and the glory of the nations like an overflowing stream; and you will nurse. You will be carried on her side, and will be dandled on her knees. 13 As one whom his mother comforts, so will I comfort you. You will be comforted in Jerusalem.”
(WEB)
Point out the picture of a mother holding and comforting her child. Explain that God cares for us in this same tender way. Let the children share a time when someone comforted them when they were sad.
Talk About It
- What is one way you feel close to God when you are sad or scared?
- Why do you think God wants to comfort His people like a loving mother?
- How can you help someone in your family who feels sad this week?
- What does it mean to be humble before God, and why does He care about that?
- What is one promise from God that makes you feel happy and safe?
Activity Ideas
Draw a Comfort Picture
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask each child to draw a picture of someone holding and comforting them, such as a parent, grandparent, or teacher. Then have them draw a small heart or sun in the corner to show God’s love. Let children explain their drawings to the group.
River of Peace Game
You will need a blue scarf or a long piece of blue paper and a few soft toys or pillows. Lay the scarf on the floor to look like a flowing river. Have children walk slowly along the river, one at a time, and whisper something that makes them feel peaceful. Remind them that God’s peace flows to them like a river that never stops.
Comfort Bag for Home
You will need a small paper bag, a few cotton balls, and a marker. Let each child write “God comforts me” on the bag and put a cotton ball inside as a soft reminder. Encourage them to take it home and place it somewhere they will see it each day. Ask them to share with their family what it means to them.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Isaiah 66 closes a book full of warnings and promises with a vision of God’s faithful care for His people. God is the Creator of all things, yet He draws near to the humble and the grieving with comfort and hope. The chapter also looks forward to a day when people from every nation will worship Him together.
When teaching children, avoid overstating the chapter’s harder images, such as the judgment and punishment described near the end. Keep the focus on God’s comfort, His peace, and His faithfulness, which are clear and encouraging for young hearts.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You that You are so big and yet You care for us so gently. Help us to be humble and to listen closely to Your word. When we feel sad or afraid, comfort us like a loving mother holds her child. Thank You for keeping every promise You make to us. Amen.
