This lesson teaches children that their words have real power and that God is a safe place to run to. It suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including time for a short activity.
Big Idea
Our words can build people up or tear them down, so we should speak kindly and carefully. When we are scared or in trouble, we can run to God, because he keeps us safe like a strong tower.
Memory Verse
Proverbs 18:21
Death and life are in the power of the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit.
(WEB)
Put your hand over your mouth, then slowly open your fingers like a flower blooming. Say the words “life” and “death” as you do it, and remind children that words can bring either one.
The Story: Proverbs 18 for Kids
King Solomon wrote many wise sayings to help people learn how to live well. In this chapter, he tells us about a foolish person who loves to show off his own opinions. He never stops to listen, and he jumps in with his answers before he understands what anyone else is saying.
Solomon also warns about words that hurt. He says that a fool’s mouth can get him into trouble, and that a gossip’s words can slip into people’s hearts like tasty snacks that are hard to forget. Words are powerful, and they can cause real harm.
But Solomon shows us where to go when life feels scary. He says that the name of the LORD is like a strong tower, and the good people run to it and are safe. Picture a tall stone tower where you can hide from the storm. God is a place like that for his children.
Solomon also teaches that being humble is wiser than being proud. A proud heart leads to trouble, but a humble heart is open to learning. A friend who truly cares will stay close, even when times are hard. Solomon reminds us that kind, faithful friends are a gift from God.
Read It Together
Proverbs 18:10
The LORD’s name is a strong tower: the righteous run to him, and are safe.
(WEB)
Point out the picture of a strong tower. Ask children what they think it means to run to God, and talk about how God keeps us safe when we feel afraid or unsure.
Proverbs 18:13
He who gives answer before he hears, that is folly and shame to him.
(WEB)
Explain that answering before we listen is like giving a present before we know what someone needs. Encourage children to take a breath and listen fully before they respond.
Proverbs 18:24
A man of many companions may be ruined, but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.
(WEB)
Talk about what makes a good friend. Ask children to name friends who stay close, and help them see that they can be that kind of friend to others.
Talk About It
- What is one kind thing you could say to someone today?
- Can you remember a time when someone’s words made you feel happy or sad?
- Why do you think God is like a strong tower for us?
- What helps you to stop and listen before you speak?
- Who is a friend you are thankful for, and why?
Activity Ideas
Paper Tower Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and tape. Have each child draw a tall tower with a flag on top, then write or draw one kind word inside the tower. Tape the pictures to the wall as a reminder that God keeps us safe.
Stop, Listen, Speak Game
Gather the children in a circle and have one child start by saying a short sentence about their day. Before the next child answers, they must first hold up one finger, pause for a count of three, and then respond kindly. This helps them practice listening before speaking.
Kindness Jar at Home
You will need a clean jar, paper slips, and a pen. Each day, invite the child to write one kind word about someone in the family and place it in the jar. At the end of the week, read the notes together and talk about how words can build people up.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that wisdom shapes how we use our speech and how we treat others. Proverbs connects the power of words with the reality of life and death, and it presents the LORD as a secure refuge for those who trust him. Humility, careful listening, and faithful friendship are all marks of a wise life before God.
Avoid making it sound like children must be perfect with their words to earn God’s love. The point is that God is our safe place and that he helps us grow in kindness over time, not that we succeed on our own effort.
A Prayer to Close
Heavenly Father, thank you that you are our strong tower and a safe place to run when we are scared. Help us to use our words to build others up and to listen carefully before we speak. Make us kind friends who stay close to the people we love. Amen.
