In this lesson, children learn that God takes care of His people even when they are scared and do not understand what is happening. This lesson is for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God takes care of us, even when life feels scary or confusing. We can trust Him and be brave, because He is always with us.
Memory Verse
Genesis 43:14
May God Almighty give you mercy before the man, that he may release to you your other brother and Benjamin. If I am bereaved of my children, I am bereaved.”
(WEB)
Put your hands over your heart as you say the verse slowly. Then lift your hands up high, like you are giving God your worries. Do this three times together until everyone can say it with the motions.
The Story: Genesis 43 for Kids
Back in the land of Canaan, there was a terrible famine. There was not enough food for anyone. Jacob and his sons had eaten all the grain they brought home from Egypt, and their family was hungry again. Jacob said, “Go back to Egypt and buy us more food.”
Judah, one of Jacob’s sons, told his father the truth. The Egyptian ruler had said they could not come back to see him unless their youngest brother, Benjamin, came with them. Jacob was worried. He had already lost his son Joseph, and he did not want to lose Benjamin too.
Judah made a promise. He said, “I will take care of Benjamin. I will keep him safe, and I will bring him back to you.” Jacob still felt sad, but he agreed. He told his sons to take gifts, double the money, and Benjamin with them.
When the brothers arrived in Egypt, the man in charge invited them to his house for a meal. The brothers were scared, because they remembered the money in their sacks. They worried that they were in trouble. But the steward said, “Peace be to you. Don’t be afraid. Your God has given you treasure in your sacks.” Then he brought Simeon out to them.
The brothers sat down to eat. When the ruler came in, they bowed low to the ground. He asked about their father and their little brother Benjamin. Then he looked at Benjamin and was so full of feelings that he had to leave the room and cry in private. Afterward, he washed his face and came back to eat with them. The brothers were amazed, and they all had a good time together.
Read It Together
Genesis 43:23
He said, “Peace be to you. Don’t be afraid. Your God, and the God of your father, has given you treasure in your sacks. I received your money.” He brought Simeon out to them.
(WEB)
Point out that the steward told the brothers not to be afraid, and he said God had given them treasure. Help children see that God was caring for these men even when they thought they were in danger.
Genesis 43:30
Joseph hurried, for his heart yearned over his brother; and he sought a place to weep. He entered into his room, and wept there.
(WEB)
Show children that Joseph had strong feelings and needed a moment alone. Explain that even grown-ups can feel very emotional, and it is okay to take a break to calm down.
Genesis 43:34
He sent portions to them from before him, but Benjamin’s portion was five times as much as any of theirs. They drank, and were merry with him.
(WEB)
Point out how Joseph treated his brothers with kindness at the meal. Talk about how God’s care can show up through the people around us, too.
Talk About It
- What did Jacob feel when his sons told him they had to take Benjamin to Egypt?
- How did Judah show that he was willing to take care of his little brother?
- Why were the brothers scared when they were taken to Joseph’s house?
- What did the steward say to help the brothers feel calm and safe?
- When have you felt scared, and how can you remember that God is still taking care of you?
Activity Ideas
Draw a Family Meal
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask children to draw a picture of the meal Joseph and his brothers shared. They can add food, the table, and the brothers sitting together. Encourage them to draw a happy face on someone who felt surprised or relieved. Talk about how the meal showed peace and kindness.
Brave Brother Relay
You will need two cups, a few small snacks or pieces of paper, and an open space. Divide the children into two teams and have them carry a snack from one side of the room to the other using only a spoon. Each time they finish, cheer for them and say, “Don’t be afraid, God is with us!” This game helps children practice working together and feeling brave.
Take-Home Reminder Card
You will need index cards, markers, and tape or a rubber band. Have each child write or draw a reminder on the card, like a heart with a hand or a sun shining. Ask them to take it home and place it somewhere they will see it, such as on the fridge or by their bed. Encourage them to look at it when they feel worried and say the memory verse together as a family.
Teacher Notes
This chapter shows that God is faithful even in difficult seasons. Jacob was afraid of losing another son, and his brothers faced fear and uncertainty. Yet God worked through these events in ways they could not yet see. For adults, the passage invites trust in God’s provision and care even when the path ahead is unclear.
Be careful not to suggest that obeying God always brings easy or immediate rewards. Children should hear that God cares for us, but the story also includes real sadness and worry. Keep the focus on God’s presence and kindness rather than promising that every hard thing will turn out perfectly.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You for taking care of us when we feel scared. Help us remember that You are always with us, even when we don’t understand what is happening. Help us to be brave and to trust You every day. Amen.
