This lesson teaches children that God is holy and just, and that He keeps every promise He makes. It is written for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach, including the memory verse and a short activity.
Big Idea
God is the boss of everything, and He always does what He says. Even when bad things happen, God is still in charge, and He keeps His promises to take care of His people.
Memory Verse
Isaiah 34:16
Search in the book of the LORD, and read: not one of these will be missing. None will lack her mate. For my mouth has commanded, and his Spirit has gathered them.
(WEB)
Teach the children to hold both hands open, palms up, then slowly close them as they say the word “not.” Then open them wide as they say “missing.” Repeat it together three times so they can feel that God keeps track of every one of His creatures.
The Story: Isaiah 34 for Kids
A long time ago, a prophet named Isaiah spoke for God. God had a message for all the nations of the earth. He wanted everyone to listen carefully, because the message was very serious. God is holy, and He will not let wrong things go on forever.
In this chapter, God spoke about a land called Edom. The people of Edom had turned away from God and had hurt His people. God told Isaiah that He would bring His judgment on them. Isaiah described the land as becoming dry and empty, with smoke rising from it for a very long time. It was a sad picture of what happens when people refuse to follow God.
Isaiah also told of wild animals that would make their homes in that empty land. Owls, ravens, and porcupines would live there, and the land would be quiet and still. The prophet wanted the people to understand that God does not forget what He has said. Every sign He spoke about would come true, just as He promised.
Then God said something very kind in the middle of all that sadness. He said, “Search in the book of the LORD, and read.” God wanted His people to remember that His words are written down and that they can be trusted. He said that not one of the creatures would be missing, and that each one would have a partner.
The chapter ends with God giving the land to those who belong to Him. Isaiah said that they would dwell there forever, generation after generation. God had made a plan, and He drew it out carefully, like a builder measuring a wall. Nothing about that plan was left to chance.
Read It Together
Isaiah 34:1
Come near, you nations, to hear! Listen, you peoples. Let the earth and all it contains hear; the world, and everything that comes from it.
(WEB)
Point out that God invited everyone to listen. Ask the children why God would want the whole earth to pay attention. Explain that God’s messages are important enough for everyone to hear.
Isaiah 34:8
For the LORD has a day of vengeance, a year of recompense for the cause of Zion.
(WEB)
Explain that the word “vengeance” means God makes things right in the end. Help the children see that God is fair, and He will set things right for His people who are waiting on Him.
Isaiah 34:17
He has cast the lot for them, and his hand has divided it to them with a measuring line. They shall possess it forever. From generation to generation they will dwell in it.
(WEB)
Show the children the word “forever.” Remind them that God’s promises to His people last longer than anything in this world. Let them say “forever” together with a big smile.
Talk About It
- What do you think it means that God is in charge of everything in the whole world?
- Why do you think God wanted the nations and the earth to listen to His message?
- How did it feel to hear about the empty land, and what do you think God wanted us to learn from it?
- What are some ways you can tell that God keeps His promises to you?
- When you feel scared or unsure, what is one thing you can remember about God?
Activity Ideas
Draw a Book of Promises
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a stapler. Fold several sheets of paper in half and staple them together to make a small book. On the cover, have each child write “The Book of the LORD” and draw a picture of something God has promised. Let them share their pictures with the group and talk about why God’s words are worth trusting.
Stand Tall Like a Promise
You will need an open space and a few pieces of tape to mark a line on the floor. Have the children stand on the line with their arms stretched out to the sides. Call out things God promises, like “God is with you” or “God keeps His word,” and have the children move in a small circle each time. End by having everyone freeze and say “not one will be missing” together.
Take-Home Promise Card
You will need index cards, a pen, and a rubber band. Write a simple promise from the chapter on each card, such as “Not one is missing.” Give one card to each child to take home and place somewhere they will see it. Encourage them to read it to a family member at dinner that evening.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter shows that God’s justice is real and that His word is completely reliable. The judgment against Edom reminds us that God takes sin seriously, but the closing images point to God’s faithful care for His own people. Read the whole chapter slowly so you can see how the warning and the promise belong together.
With children, avoid overstating the harsh imagery of blood, fat, and burning. Focus on the simple truth that God is in control and that His promises are sure. Keep the emphasis on God’s faithfulness and care rather than on the details of the judgment.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, thank You that You are in charge of everything. Thank You that You always keep Your promises and never forget any of Your creatures. Help us to trust Your words and to remember that You care for us. Amen.
