Psalm 2 teaches children that God is in charge of everything and that he has chosen a special King who will rule forever. This lesson works well for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
God is the true King, and everyone can be safe by trusting his Son, who is the King he chose.
Memory Verse
Psalm 2:12
Give sincere homage to the Son, lest he be angry, and you perish on the way, for his wrath will soon be kindled. Blessed are all those who take refuge in him.
(WEB)
Have children place both hands over their hearts, then open their arms wide like a welcome. Say the last words slowly and tap your heart each time you say “refuge” so the children can picture running to a safe place.
The Story: Psalm 2 for Kids
Long ago, King David wrote a song about a time when people did not want God to be in charge. Kings and rulers gathered together and made a plan. They said they wanted to throw off God’s rules like heavy chains.
But God was not worried at all. He sits high above the earth, and when he saw their silly plan, he laughed. The people had no idea how small they really were compared to him. God was not scared of them.
Then God spoke, and his voice was strong and serious. He said, “I have set my King on my holy hill in Zion.” God had already chosen the King he wanted to rule, and nobody could stop it.
God then told his King something wonderful. He said, “You are my Son, and today I have become your Father.” God promised that the nations of the world would belong to this King. He would rule them with great strength.
Next, the song speaks to the rulers of the earth. It tells them to be wise and learn about God. They should serve the Lord with respect, and they should give honor to the Son. If they do not, they will be in serious trouble.
The song ends with a happy promise. Everyone who runs to God for safety will be blessed. God is a safe place for every person who trusts him.
Read It Together
Psalm 2:1-2
1 Why do the nations rage, and the peoples plot a vain thing? 2 The kings of the earth take a stand, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his Anointed, saying…
(WEB)
Ask the children what they think the people were planning. Point out that these are people who did not want God to be their King, and help them see that God is far greater than any plan people can make.
Psalm 2:4
He who sits in the heavens will laugh. The Lord will have them in derision.
(WEB)
Ask the children how they think God feels when he sees people making foolish plans against him. Explain that God’s laughter shows he is not worried, because nothing can stop what he has decided to do.
Psalm 2:7-8
7 I will tell of the decree. The LORD said to me, “You are my son. Today I have become your father. 8 Ask of me, and I will give the nations for your inheritance, the uttermost parts of the earth for your possession.
(WEB)
Point out the words “You are my son” and explain that God is speaking to his chosen King. Show the children that God promised his King would have the nations as his inheritance.
Talk About It
- Why do you think people sometimes try to act as if they do not need God?
- What does it feel like to know that God is bigger than any problem you have?
- How can you show God that you respect him in your everyday choices?
- Why do you think God chose a King to rule over the nations?
- What is one way you can run to God when you feel scared or unsafe?
Activity Ideas
Crown Craft
You will need paper, markers, scissors, and tape. Have each child cut a long strip of paper and decorate it with gold or bright colors. Help them tape it into a crown that fits their head. As they wear it, talk about how the crown reminds us that God is the true King.
Safe Place Run
Mark a safe spot on one side of the room with a blanket or chair, and ask the children to stand on the other side. Call out things that make people feel afraid, and have the children run to the safe spot. Explain that Psalm 2 says God is a safe place for everyone who trusts him.
Refuge Card for Home
You will need an index card, a pencil, and a pen. Have each child write or draw a picture of a place where they feel safe, such as a bed or a grandparent’s arms. Encourage them to take the card home and place it where they will see it, and remind them that God is their safe place too.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Psalm 2 shows that God rules over every nation and every leader, and that his plans will succeed no matter what people try. The song also points forward to Jesus, the Son whom God appointed as King, and invites everyone to trust him.
With children, avoid suggesting that God is angry at people in a harsh or frightening way. Focus on God’s kindness, his safety, and his promise to bless those who trust him, rather than the warning about wrath.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank you that you are the King of everything and that you are always in control. Help us trust your Son, Jesus, and run to you when we feel scared. Keep us safe in your loving care. Amen.
