This lesson teaches children that God keeps every promise, so we should love Him and hold tightly to Him. It is written for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God always keeps His promises, so we can trust Him and stay close to Him every day.
Memory Verse
Joshua 23:8
But hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have done to this day.
(WEB)
Teach the children to hold both fists tight in front of their chests as they say the verse together. Then have them slowly open their hands wide, like they are letting go of something and reaching for God. Repeat it three times, faster each time, until the motions feel natural.
The Story: Joshua 23 for Kids
Joshua was now very old. The people of Israel had lived in peace for a long time, because God had helped them defeat their enemies. Joshua knew he would not be with them much longer, so he wanted to help them remember something very important.
Joshua called all the leaders of Israel together. He told them, “You have seen everything God has done for you. The Lord fought for you, and He gave you this land just as He promised.” Joshua wanted them to remember that every good thing had come from God.
Then Joshua gave them a warning. He said, “Be very brave and careful to obey God’s law. Do not follow the gods of the people around you. Do not bow down to them or serve them. Hold tight to the Lord your God, just as you have done until now.”
Joshua explained that if they stopped trusting God and turned to other gods, things would go badly for them. He reminded them that God had kept every good promise He ever made. He also said that God would keep His word about the hard things too, if the people chose to walk away from Him.
Joshua loved his people and wanted them to stay strong. He wanted them to choose God every single day, so they could enjoy the good land God had given them.
Read It Together
Joshua 23:3
You have seen all that the LORD your God has done to all these nations because of you; for it is the LORD your God who has fought for you.
(WEB)
Point out that Joshua reminded the people that God had fought for them. Ask the children to think of a time when they saw God help them or someone they love. Let them share a short example.
Joshua 23:11
Take good heed therefore to yourselves, that you love the LORD your God.
(WEB)
Show the children the word “love” in this verse and explain that loving God means wanting to be close to Him and to please Him. Point out that this is a choice we make, not just a feeling.
Joshua 23:14
“Behold, today I am going the way of all the earth. You know in all your hearts and in all your souls that not one thing has failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spoke concerning you. All have happened to you. Not one thing has failed of it.
(WEB)
Explain that Joshua said not one good promise from God had failed. Remind the children that God’s promises are always true, and they can count on Him completely.
Talk About It
- What is one good thing God has done for you this week?
- Why do you think Joshua wanted the people to remember all that God had done?
- What are some things that might tempt us to turn away from God?
- How can you hold tight to God when you feel scared or tempted?
- What can you do this week to show God that you love Him?
Activity Ideas
Promise Keeper Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask each child to draw a picture of one good thing God has done for them, such as giving them a family or a home. Let them write or dictate a short sentence underneath, like “God keeps His promises.” Display the drawings on the wall as a reminder.
Hold Fast Relay
You will need a open space, a few soft objects like pillows or stuffed animals, and a timer. Divide the children into two teams and have them race to carry an object across the room while holding it tightly with both arms. Explain that this is like holding fast to God. Cheer them on and talk about how holding tight helps us keep going.
Take-Home Promise Jar
You will need a clean jar, paper slips, and a pen. Give each child a few slips and ask them to write or draw one way God has been faithful to them. Place the slips in the jar and have the child take it home. Encourage the family to read one slip together each evening before bed.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Joshua 23 is a farewell speech in which Joshua urges Israel to remain faithful to the Lord. He grounds his call in God’s past faithfulness and makes clear that obedience and covenant loyalty are essential to life in the land. The chapter reminds us that God’s grace is never an excuse for drifting away from Him.
When teaching children, avoid overstating the idea that bad things will happen to them if they make mistakes. Focus instead on God’s love, His faithfulness, and the joy of walking with Him, so children feel secure rather than fearful.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, thank You for always keeping Your promises to us. Help us to love You with all our hearts and to hold tightly to You every day. When we feel scared or tempted, remind us that You are faithful and close to us. We trust You, and we want to follow You. Amen.
