This lesson teaches children that God hears us when we are scared or thirsty and gives us what we need, even when we complain. It suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including the story, the verses, and the activity.
Big Idea
God takes care of His people in hard places. When we are thirsty, afraid, or tired, we can bring our problems to Him and trust Him to help.
Memory Verse
Exodus 17:6
Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb. You shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink.” Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
(WEB)
Put your hands out in front of you, palms up, like you are holding a cup. Then slowly lift your arms up high, like water flowing up from the rock. Say the verse together as you move, and do the motions again each time you say it.
The Story: Exodus 17 for Kids
God’s people, the Israelites, were walking through the desert. They had left Egypt, and God was leading them one step at a time. Each day they packed up their tents and moved on, trusting God to show them the way.
One day they came to a place called Rephidim, and there was no water. The people were very thirsty. Their mouths were dry, and their children were crying. So they started to grumble and complain to Moses. “Why did you bring us out here? Give us water to drink!”
Moses felt upset too. He asked God, “What should I do with these people? They are almost ready to throw stones at me.” God answered Moses kindly. He told him to walk ahead of the people and take the wooden staff he had used at the Nile. God said, “I will stand right there on the rock in front of you. Strike the rock, and water will come out of it so the people can drink.”
Moses did exactly what God said. He struck the rock while the leaders of Israel watched. Right away, fresh water poured out of the rock, and everyone had enough to drink. God had taken care of them, even though they had complained.
Later, a group called the Amalekites came to attack the Israelites. Moses sent Joshua to lead the soldiers while he stood on a hill, holding up God’s staff. When Moses lifted his hands, the Israelites were winning. When his hands got tired and dropped, the enemy started to win. So Aaron and Hur held up Moses’ arms until the sun went down, and Israel won the battle.
Read It Together
Exodus 17:3
The people were thirsty for water there; and the people murmured against Moses, and said, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us, our children, and our livestock with thirst?”
(WEB)
Point out that the people were thirsty and they complained. Ask children what they do when they feel thirsty or upset. Explain that it is okay to tell God how we feel, and that God listens even when our words are not nice.
Exodus 17:5-6
5 The LORD said to Moses, “Walk on before the people, and take the elders of Israel with you, and take the rod in your hand with which you struck the Nile, and go. 6 Behold, I will stand before you there on the rock in Horeb. You shall strike the rock, and water will come out of it, that the people may drink.” Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.
(WEB)
Show children that God gave Moses clear instructions and then provided the water. Point out that God is the one who makes the water come, not Moses on his own. This helps children see that God is the true source of what we need.
Exodus 17:12
But Moses’ hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side. His hands were steady until sunset.
(WEB)
Point out that Moses got tired, and his friends Aaron and Hur helped hold his arms up. Explain that God gives us friends and helpers when we get weary, and that we can help others when they are tired too.
Talk About It
- What did the Israelites need in the desert, and how did they ask for help?
- How do you feel when you are really thirsty or hungry, and what helps you feel better?
- Why do you think God gave the people water even though they complained?
- Who are the people who help you when you feel tired or sad, like Aaron and Hur helped Moses?
- What is one thing you can tell God about today when you need help?
Activity Ideas
Paper Rock and Water Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a small cup of water. Have each child draw a big gray rock on the paper. Then have them draw blue water coming out of the top of the rock. While they draw, talk about how God provided water in the desert. Let children color their picture and take it home to remind them that God gives what we need.
Water Rock Game
Gather a few soft balls or rolled-up socks, and set up a small rock using a cushion or box. Have children take turns tossing the balls into a bucket while one child stands guard as “Moses.” Each time someone makes a basket, say “God gives us water!” and cheer. This game helps children move and reminds them of God’s care.
Thirsty Helper Take-Home Card
You will need index cards, a pen, and a rubber band. On each card, write “God hears me when I am thirsty or scared.” Draw a small cup of water on the back. Have each child keep the card in a pocket or on a backpack. Encourage them to read the card when they feel worried or need help, and to remember who helps them.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that God provides for His people even when they complain and doubt Him. It also shows the value of community, as Aaron and Hur supported Moses in prayer and action. God’s faithfulness remains steady, even when the people’s trust wavers.
When teaching children, avoid implying that God only gives us what we need if we behave well or never complain. The story shows God’s mercy toward grumbling people, so keep the focus on God’s kindness rather than a rule about how to earn help.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, thank You for taking care of us when we are thirsty, tired, or scared. Help us bring our feelings to You, even when we are upset. Give us good friends to help us, and help us be good friends to others. Thank You for always listening to us. Amen.
