This lesson teaches children that God keeps His promises, even when a city that hurt His people seems powerful. It is made for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You can teach it with a Bible, a few craft supplies, and a little movement.
Big Idea
God is strong, and He always keeps His word. He cares for His people, and He will make things right in His own time.
Memory Verse
Nahum 2:2
For the LORD restores the excellency of Jacob, as the excellency of Israel; for the destroyers have destroyed them, and ruined their vine branches.
(WEB)
Have children hold both hands up high, then slowly bring them down together in front of their chest as they say “restores.” Repeat it three times, faster each time, until they can say the whole verse with the motions.
The Story: Nahum 2 for Kids
Long ago, the people of Israel lived in their own land, and God loved them very much. But the great city of Nineveh had grown proud and cruel. Its army was big and strong, and Nineveh had hurt many people, including God’s own family.
God sent a prophet named Nahum to tell the people that something was coming. A powerful enemy army was going to come against Nineveh. Its soldiers wore red and scarlet shields, and their chariots flashed like lightning in the sunshine. The city’s gates were opened by the rivers, and the palace fell down.
The people of Nineveh were scared. They ran away, crying, “Stop! Stop!” But no one turned around to look back. Their hearts melted, and their knees shook. The city that once seemed so safe was left empty and quiet.
Where were the proud lions of Nineveh now? The lions had once walked freely and never worried about anyone. But now their den was empty. God said that He Himself was against this proud city, and He would stop its power.
This story is about God, not about soldiers or chariots. God said that He would restore His people. He said that His promises would stand, even when things looked dark. God is faithful, and His people can trust Him.
Read It Together
Nahum 2:1
He who dashes in pieces has come up against you. Keep the fortress! Watch the way! Strengthen your waist! Fortify your power mightily!
(WEB)
Point out that the verse talks about someone coming to attack, and that the city is told to get ready. Ask children what it feels like to know a hard thing is coming and to need to be strong.
Nahum 2:6-7
6 The gates of the rivers are opened, and the palace is dissolved. 7 It is decreed: she is uncovered, she is carried away; and her servants moan as with the voice of doves, beating on their breasts.
(WEB)
Show children how the city’s gates and palace were broken down. Explain that even the strongest buildings cannot stand when God decides to act. Help them see that God is in charge of all things.
Nahum 2:13
“Behold, I am against you,” says the LORD of Armies, “and I will burn her chariots in the smoke, and the sword will devour your young lions; and I will cut off your prey from the earth, and the voice of your messengers will no longer be heard.”
(WEB)
Read this verse slowly and point out the words “Behold, I am against you.” Explain that God speaks to the proud city directly. Let children see that God is powerful and that He keeps His word.
Talk About It
- What did God promise to do for His people in this story?
- How do you think the people of Israel felt when they heard God would help them?
- Why did the people of Nineveh run away instead of staying to fight?
- What is one way you can trust God when things feel scary?
- How does it help you to know that God is stronger than anyone?
Activity Ideas
Paper Lion Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and scissors. Have each child draw a lion on the paper and cut it out. Ask them to write or draw one word on the back that tells something God is, such as strong or faithful. Hang the lions in the classroom as a reminder that God is powerful and good.
Chariot Race Game
You will need a open space, a few toy cars or cups, and a stopwatch if you have one. Let children pretend to be chariots and move quickly across the room, then stop and say “God is strong!” when you clap. This helps children move their bodies while remembering that God is in control of everything.
Promise Card for Home
You will need index cards, pencils, and a small envelope for each child. Have children write or draw one promise God makes in the Bible, or one thing they know God will always do. Let them take the card home and place it on the kitchen table or near their bed. Encourage them to read it aloud to a family member during the week.
Teacher Notes
Nahum speaks to adults about God’s justice and faithfulness. The message is that God will judge the wicked and keep His promises to His people, even when the powers of the world seem unstoppable. Adults can take comfort that God sees injustice and acts in His perfect timing.
With children, avoid suggesting that God’s people should celebrate or delight in the suffering of others. Keep the focus on God’s faithfulness and His care for His people, rather than on the violence of the story.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, we thank You that You are strong and You always keep Your promises. Help us trust You when things feel scary or hard. Thank You for caring for us and for being with us every day. Amen.
