This lesson teaches children that God’s way is always the safest way, even when it is not the way we want. It is for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including a short story, a few discussion questions, and one activity.
Big Idea
When we ask God for help, we should listen to what he says and do it, even when it is hard. God always knows what is best for us, and he keeps his promises.
Memory Verse
Jeremiah 42:6
Whether it is good, or whether it is bad, we will obey the voice of the LORD our God, to whom we send you; that it may be well with us, when we obey the voice of the LORD our God.”
(WEB)
Have children hold both hands out in front of them, palms up, like they are carrying something important. Then bring their hands together as they say “We will obey.” Doing this motion each time you say the verse helps little ones remember both the words and the meaning.
The Story: Jeremiah 42 for Kids
A long time ago, the people of Judah had a big problem. Their land had been hurt by a war, and many of their friends and family were gone. A few people were left, and they were scared about what would happen next. They did not know where to go or what to do.
The leaders and all the people came to Jeremiah, the prophet of God. They said, “Please pray to the LORD for us. Ask him to show us the way we should go, and we will do whatever he says.” They really meant it, and they promised to listen.
Jeremiah said, “I will pray to God for you. I will tell you everything he says, and I will not keep anything back.” After ten days, God spoke to Jeremiah. God said, “Stay in this land. I will build you up, and I will not tear you down. Do not be afraid of the king of Babylon, because I am with you and I will save you.”
But God also warned them. He said that if they ran away to Egypt, the very things they were afraid of would catch up with them there. God told them plainly, “Do not go into Egypt.”
The people did not listen. They had already decided in their hearts to go to Egypt. They had asked God for help, but they did not really want to hear his answer. Jeremiah told them the truth, but they did not do what God said.
This story shows us that God tells us the truth, even when it is hard to hear. When we ask God for help, we need to be ready to follow his way.
Read It Together
Jeremiah 42:2-3
2 And said to Jeremiah the prophet, “Please let our supplication be presented before you, and pray for us to the LORD your God, even for all this remnant; for we are left but a few of many, as your eyes see us; 3 that the LORD your God may show us the way in which we should walk, and the things that we should do.”
(WEB)
Point out that the people asked Jeremiah to pray for them and to show them the way to go. Ask children what it means to ask God for help. Remind them that asking God for help is a good thing to do.
Jeremiah 42:11
Don’t be afraid of the king of Babylon, of whom you are afraid. Don’t be afraid of him,’ says the LORD: ‘for I am with you to save you, and to deliver you from his hand.
(WEB)
Point out the words “for I am with you.” Explain that God was telling the people he would be with them and keep them safe. Ask children how it feels to know someone is with them when they are scared.
Jeremiah 42:19
“The LORD has spoken concerning you, remnant of Judah, ‘Don’t go into Egypt!’ Know certainly that I have testified to you today.
(WEB)
Point out that God warned the people clearly, saying “Don’t go into Egypt!” Explain that God was not being mean. He was telling them what would keep them safe. Ask children why it can be hard to listen when someone tells us not to do something.
Talk About It
- What did the people ask Jeremiah to do for them?
- Why do you think the people said they would obey God, but then did not?
- How did God say he would take care of the people if they stayed in the land?
- What is something God has told you that might be hard to do?
- How can you show God you want to listen to him this week?
Activity Ideas
Listening Ears Craft
You will need paper plates, markers, craft glue, and yarn or string. Have each child draw a big ear on a paper plate and cut it out. Let them glue the yarn around the edge as a border. Talk together about how God wants us to have listening ears. Children can take their ear home as a reminder to listen to God and to the people who love them.
Follow the Leader Game
Choose one child to be the leader and have them call out simple movements, such as “hop three times” or “touch your nose.” Everyone must follow the leader quickly and carefully. After a few rounds, explain that the people in the story did not follow God’s directions. Talk about how following God’s way keeps us safe, just like following a good leader keeps us from getting lost.
Home Reminder Card
You will need index cards, a pencil, and crayons. Write “Jeremiah 42:6” on one side of the card and draw a small picture of open hands. Ask children to decorate the card and take it home. Encourage them to read the verse with their family during dinner or bedtime this week and to say what they think God wants them to do.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this passage shows that asking God for guidance is only meaningful if we are willing to obey what he says, even when his answer is not what we hoped for. The people in Jeremiah 42 were sincere when they asked for help, but their hearts were already set on another plan. God’s faithfulness and care are clear throughout the chapter, and his warnings come from love.
Be careful not to suggest to children that every hard situation will turn out well for those who obey, or that God will always give us the answer we want. The chapter is about trusting God’s word and character, not about a guaranteed outcome. Keep the focus on God’s faithfulness and his love for his people.
A Prayer to Close
Dear Jesus, thank you for always telling us the truth. Help us to listen to you and to follow your way, even when it is hard. Help us to trust that you are with us and that you love us. Help us to keep our hearts ready to obey you every day. Amen.
