In this lesson, children learn that the earth belongs to God, and that he is the King of glory who is strong and good. This lesson suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
God made the whole world, and he is the great King who is strong, good, and worthy of our worship.
Memory Verse
Psalm 24:1
The earth is the LORD’s, with its fullness; the world, and those who dwell therein.
(WEB)
Have the children stretch both arms out wide, as if holding the whole world, and then bring them together in front of their chest. Say the verse slowly with them while they hold the world in their arms.
The Story: Psalm 24 for Kids
A long time ago, King David wrote a song about God. He looked up at the sky, down at the grass, and out at the big blue sea. He saw that everything belonged to God, because God made it all. The earth and everything living on it were his.
David also thought about who could come close to God. He asked, “Who may climb up to the LORD’s hill? Who may stand in his holy place?” The answer was a person with clean hands and a pure heart. That means someone who tries to do what is right and tells the truth, and who does not lie or cheat.
God blesses people who love him and seek to know him. David wrote that these people would receive a blessing from the Lord and be made right with him. He was thankful that God helps us.
Then David pictured a great king coming to the city. He called out to the gates and said, “Lift up your heads, you gates! Let the King of glory come in!” The gates were tall and old, so David wanted them to open up wide for this special visitor.
The people asked, “Who is this King of glory?” The answer came back loud and clear. It was the Lord, strong and mighty, the Lord who wins every battle. He is the King of glory, and the whole world belongs to him.
Read It Together
Psalm 24:2
For he has founded it on the seas, and established it on the floods.
(WEB)
Point out that God built the world on the seas and rivers, which shows how carefully he made everything. Ask the children to name something in nature that God made, such as water, trees, or animals.
Psalm 24:4-5
4 He who has clean hands and a pure heart; who has not lifted up his soul to falsehood, and has not sworn deceitfully. 5 He shall receive a blessing from the LORD, righteousness from the God of his salvation.
(WEB)
Explain that a clean heart means wanting to do right and tell the truth. Point out that God blesses people who love him and try to live in a way that pleases him.
Psalm 24:7-8
7 Lift up your heads, you gates! Be lifted up, you everlasting doors, and the King of glory will come in. 8 Who is the King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.
(WEB)
Show the children how the gates are called to open up for the King. Point out that the Lord is strong and mighty, and that he is the King who deserves our respect and worship.
Talk About It
- What is something in the world that God made, and what do you like most about it?
- What does it mean to have clean hands and a pure heart, and how can we show that at home?
- Why do you think God wants us to tell the truth and not lie or cheat?
- How do you feel knowing that God is strong and mighty, and that he takes care of us?
- What is one way we can show God that he is our King this week?
Activity Ideas
Crown the King Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and scissors. Have each child draw a large crown and decorate it with bright colors and gems. Then ask them to write or draw one thing that shows God is the King of glory. Let them take their crown home as a reminder.
Lift Up the Gates Game
You will need a sheet, two chairs, and an open space. Have two children stand facing each other, holding the sheet high as the gates. Let the other children walk through when they hear the call, “Lift up your heads, you gates!” Repeat the game with different children, and talk about how the King of glory is welcomed in.
Clean Heart Jar Take-Home
You will need a clear jar, water, and a few drops of food coloring. Show the children how a cloudy jar can be made clear again by letting the water settle. Explain that God helps us keep our hearts clean when we choose to do what is right. Send the jar home with a note asking the family to talk about a clean heart this week.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Psalm 24 is a song that proclaims God’s ownership of creation and his right to be worshiped as King. It asks who can approach God and answers that it is those with integrity and a sincere heart, while pointing to God’s gracious blessing as the source of that righteousness. The psalm was likely sung as a procession when the ark was brought into Jerusalem.
With children, avoid overstating that clean hands and a pure heart are earned by good behavior alone. Emphasize that God helps and forgives us, so they should see the psalm as an invitation to love and trust him rather than a test they must pass.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank you for making the whole world and everything in it. Help us keep our hearts clean and tell the truth. We know you are the King of glory, strong and mighty, and we want to worship you every day. Amen.
