Psalm 111 teaches children that God is good and His works are wonderful, so we thank Him with our whole hearts. This lesson suits children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Big Idea
God does great and good things, and we can thank Him for all of them. He is kind, He keeps His promises, and He is always worth praising.
Memory Verse
Psalm 111:1
Praise Yah! I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart, in the council of the upright, and in the congregation.
(WEB)
Put both hands over your heart, then lift them up and open them wide like you are giving a gift. Say “I will thank the Lord with my whole heart” while you do the motion, and repeat it three times together.
The Story: Psalm 111 for Kids
Long ago, a singer wrote a happy song to God. He wanted to thank God in front of everyone who loved God, from the leaders to the families gathered together. The singer said, “I will thank the Lord with my whole heart.” He meant that he was not thanking God halfway. He was giving God all of his love and attention.
The singer looked around and saw how big and wonderful God’s works were. God had made the sky, the land, the animals, and the people. The singer said that everyone who loved God liked to think about these works. They looked at them carefully and were amazed by them. Each thing God made showed how good He is.
The singer remembered that God always takes care of His people. God gave food to those who trusted Him. He never forgot the promises He made, and He kept them forever. The singer said God is kind and full of mercy, which means He is gentle and forgives us when we need it.
The song told how God had rescued His people and set them free. God did this with His great power, and He did it because He is faithful. The singer said God’s name is holy, which means it is special and set apart. It is an awesome name, and it should be spoken with respect.
At the end of the song, the singer gave a important reminder. He said that knowing and respecting God is the start of true wisdom. People who follow God and do what He asks learn to understand life in a good way. The song ends by saying God’s praise lasts forever.
Read It Together
Psalm 111:4
He has caused his wonderful works to be remembered. The LORD is gracious and merciful.
(WEB)
Point out that God’s works are wonderful enough to be remembered. Ask children to name one thing God made that they think is amazing, and remind them that God is also gracious and merciful.
Psalm 111:5
He has given food to those who fear him. He always remembers his covenant.
(WEB)
Show children that God takes care of the people who love Him and always remembers His promises. Help them see that God’s faithfulness does not change, even when we forget or make mistakes.
Psalm 111:10
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom. All those who do his work have a good understanding. His praise endures forever!
(WEB)
Explain that the fear of the Lord means respecting and loving God, not being scared of Him. Point out that this kind of respect is where wisdom begins, and that God’s praise lasts forever.
Talk About It
- What is one of God’s works that you think is the most amazing, and why?
- How can you thank God with your whole heart when you pray or sing?
- What are some ways God has shown kindness and mercy to you or your family?
- Why do you think God always remembers His promises to His people?
- What can you do this week to show respect for God and learn from Him?
Activity Ideas
Thankful Creation Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask each child to draw one of God’s works they are thankful for, such as the sun, a tree, a pet, or a friend. Let them write or say a short thank you under their picture, then display the drawings where everyone can see them.
Wonderful Works Movement Game
You will need an open space and nothing else. Call out different works of God, like “the rain,” “the mountains,” or “the birds,” and have the children act out each one with their bodies. End each round by having everyone stand tall and say “Praise the Lord!” together.
Thank You Jar at Home
You will need a clean jar, scrap paper, and a pen. Each day, family members write one thing they are thankful for on a slip of paper and drop it in the jar. At the end of the week, read the notes out loud together and thank God for each gift before you pray.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Psalm 111 is a song of thanksgiving that links God’s character with His actions. The psalmist praises God for His works, His faithfulness, His justice, and His covenant with His people. The “fear of the Lord” in this psalm means reverent trust and respect, and it is presented as the foundation of true wisdom.
With children, avoid overstating the idea that God gives only physical food as a reward for good behavior. The psalm speaks of God providing for those who fear Him, but the focus is on His faithful love and generosity, not a simple exchange. Keep the emphasis on God’s goodness and His kindness toward us.
A Prayer to Close
Dear Lord, thank You for all the wonderful things You have made and for the way You care for us. Help us to thank You with our whole hearts and to remember Your kindness every day. Teach us to respect You and to grow in wisdom as we follow You. Amen.
