This lesson teaches children that God listens when we call to Him, and that we can thank Him for helping us. It suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Teachers can use the story, the memory verse, and the activities in any order that fits the class.
Big Idea
God hears us when we call to Him, and He always helps us. When He helps, we can say thank you and tell others what He has done.
Memory Verse
Psalm 116:1
I love the LORD, because he listens to my voice, and my cries for mercy.
(WEB)
Put one hand on your heart and say the verse slowly with the class. Then cup both hands by your mouth, as if you are calling a friend across a field. Do this together three times, and let the children call out the words too.
The Story: Psalm 116 for Kids
Long ago, a man wrote a song to God. He was in a very hard place. Trouble was all around him, and he felt sad and afraid. It felt like he could not get out.
So he did the only thing he knew to do. He called out to God and asked Him for help. He said, “Please, God, save me!” He did not stop calling, because he knew God was listening.
God heard his cry. God is kind and fair, and He is full of mercy. He looked after the man who had no strength left, and He helped him. The man was able to rest again, and his tears were dry.
Once he was safe, the man wanted to thank God. He said to himself, “What can I give back to the Lord for all He has done?” He decided he would bring thank you gifts and tell everyone how good God had been to him.
He sang and praised God in front of all the people, right there in the city of Jerusalem. He wanted everyone to know that God hears and helps.
Read It Together
Psalm 116:1-2
1 I love the LORD, because he listens to my voice, and my cries for mercy. 2 Because he has turned his ear to me, therefore I will call on him as long as I live.
(WEB)
Point out that the writer says he loves God because God listens. Ask the children what it means to listen to someone, and how it feels when someone really listens to them.
Psalm 116:5-6
5 The LORD is Gracious and righteous. Yes, our God is merciful. 6 The LORD preserves the simple. I was brought low, and he saved me.
(WEB)
Show the children the words about God being gracious, merciful, and righteous. Explain that God is kind, fair, and caring, and that He takes care of people who feel weak or small.
Psalm 116:12-14
12 What will I give to the LORD for all his benefits toward me? 13 I will take the cup of salvation, and call on the LORD’s name. 14 I will pay my vows to the LORD, yes, in the presence of all his people.
(WEB)
Point out the question the writer asks about what he can give back to God. Explain that thank you can be shown through prayer, through songs, and through telling others about God’s goodness.
Talk About It
- What is one time you called out to someone because you needed help?
- How do you think it feels to know that God is always listening when you pray?
- What is something God has done for you that you could thank Him for today?
- How can you show someone that you are thankful for their help?
- Who is one person you could tell about how God has helped you?
Activity Ideas
Thank You Ear Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask each child to draw a big ear in the middle of the paper, then draw a small picture of something they want to thank God for around it. Let them share their pictures with the class and say a short thank you prayer for each one.
Call and Answer Game
You will need an open space and a timer or a small bell. One child stands in the middle as the caller and says a simple prayer request out loud, such as “Help me be kind today.” The rest of the class answers together with “God hears you!” Then switch places so everyone has a turn.
Thank You Jar at Home
You will need a clean jar, paper slips, and a pen or pencil. Ask the children to write or draw one thing they are thankful for each day and put it in the jar. At the end of the week, open the jar together as a family and read the notes out loud, thanking God for each one.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this psalm shows that prayer is honest and personal. The writer speaks plainly about fear and pain, and he responds with trust and gratitude once God answers. It is a reminder that God’s faithfulness is a reason for thankful worship, both privately and among other believers.
With children, avoid suggesting that God will always remove every hard thing the moment we pray. Keep the focus on God hearing and caring for us, and on the gift of trusting Him through difficult times.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You for listening to us when we call. We are glad You hear our prayers and care about what we need. Help us to say thank you for Your goodness every day and to tell others about You. Amen.
