This lesson teaches children that God is good and strong, a safe place to run to when trouble comes. It suits children aged 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including a short story, a memory action, and one activity.
Big Idea
God is good, and God is strong. When we are scared or in trouble, we can run to God and stay safe with him.
Memory Verse
Nahum 1:7
The LORD is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; and he knows those who take refuge in him.
(WEB)
Teach the children to cup both hands together in front of their chest, like a little safe house, then lift them up high as if they are running to a strong tower. Say “God is good, a safe place” while doing the motion, and repeat it three times together.
The Story: Nahum 1 for Kids
A long time ago, God sent a prophet named Nahum to bring a message to the city of Nineveh. Nineveh was a big, busy city, and its people had been doing many wrong things. Nahum wrote down what God showed him so the people would know God had seen what they were doing.
Nahum told the people that God is not quick to get angry, but he always makes things right. He is so powerful that the wind and the storm clouds obey him. Even the mountains shake when he comes near, and the sea and the rivers dry up when he speaks. This showed everyone that God is far stronger than any city or king.
Nahum also told the people of Judah, God’s own people, a happy message. He said that a messenger was coming over the mountains with good news, a message of peace. God was going to break the heavy chains that had held his people down. Nahum called out to them, “Keep your feasts, Judah!” because God was going to set them free.
The story of Nahum shows that God knows where his people are. He knows the ones who run to him for safety. God always keeps his promises, and he is always ready to protect those who trust him. When the people of Judah heard this, they had a reason to celebrate and to trust God again.
Read It Together
Nahum 1:3
The LORD is slow to anger, and great in power, and will by no means leave the guilty unpunished. The LORD has his way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of his feet.
(WEB)
Point out that God is slow to anger, which means he takes his time before getting upset. Then show children that God is still great in power and will not leave wrong things unnoticed. Ask them what it means to be patient and fair at the same time.
Nahum 1:5
The mountains quake before him, and the hills melt away. The earth trembles at his presence, yes, the world, and all who dwell in it.
(WEB)
Help the children picture the mountains and hills trembling because God is near. Explain that the whole earth and everyone who lives on it can feel God’s presence. Let them name something in nature that they know is big and strong, then connect it to how big God is.
Nahum 1:15
Behold, on the mountains the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace! Keep your feasts, Judah! Perform your vows, for the wicked one will no more pass through you. He is utterly cut off.
(WEB)
Point out the good news about feet that bring a message of peace. Explain that this message is one of God giving freedom and rest to his people. Ask the children who they might share a happy message with this week.
Talk About It
- What is one thing that makes you feel safe when you are scared?
- How is God like a strong place to hide, and why do you think he is good to us?
- Why do you think God waits a long time before he gets angry?
- What would it feel like to hear good news of peace after a hard time?
- Who can you run to when you need help, and how can you remember that God is always there?
Activity Ideas
Strong Tower Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask each child to draw a tall tower or a rock with a door, then draw a small picture of themselves going inside it. As they draw, talk about how God is a strong place where we are safe. Let them color the tower in bright colors and write or draw one word that describes God, such as good, strong, or safe.
Storm and Calm Game
Clear some open space in a room or outside. Tell the children that when you say “storm,” they should stomp their feet and wave their arms like wind and rain, and when you say “calm,” they should freeze and stand very still. Play a few rounds, then say “God is strong,” and everyone should freeze in a calm, peaceful pose. This helps children feel how God is in control of every storm.
Safe Place Card at Home
You will need an index card, a marker, and a small envelope or a pocket. Help the child write or draw one thing that reminds them God is good and strong, then place the card where they will see it, like on the bathroom mirror or in a bedroom drawer. Encourage them to read the card each night before bed and say a short prayer thanking God for keeping them safe.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Nahum 1 is a chapter about God’s justice and his care for his people. The judgment against Nineveh shows that God does not ignore wrongdoing, while the message to Judah shows that God is a refuge for those who trust him. Both truths come from the same God who is patient, powerful, and faithful.
When teaching children, avoid overstating the violence in the chapter, such as the images of storms and fire. Keep the focus on God’s goodness, his strength, and his care for those who run to him, so that children feel safe and loved rather than afraid.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank you that you are good and strong. Help us to run to you when we feel scared, and help us to remember that you always keep us safe. Thank you for your good news of peace. We love you, and we trust you. Amen.
