This lesson teaches children that God shows us the way to go and never stops being kind to us. It suits children aged 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including a short story, a memory verse, and one simple activity.
Big Idea
God is good and kind, and He teaches us how to walk in His ways. When we ask Him for help, He will guide us, even when we make mistakes.
Memory Verse
Psalm 25:4
Show me your ways, the LORD. Teach me your paths.
(WEB)
Hold your hands out in front of you, palms up, like you are asking for a gift. Then slowly point one finger forward, as if you are walking down a path. Say the words together as you move your finger along the path.
The Story: Psalm 25 for Kids
King David wrote a prayer to God a long time ago. He was in trouble, and he felt sad and worried. His enemies were many, and they were being unkind to him. David knew he needed help from someone bigger than himself.
So David lifted up his heart to God. He said, “Show me your ways, O LORD. Teach me your paths.” David wanted to learn how God wanted him to live. He did not want to walk on his own way and get lost.
David remembered that God is kind and full of love. He asked God to remember his kindness from long ago. He also asked God to forgive the wrong things he had done when he was young. David knew he was not perfect, but he trusted that God would forgive him.
David said that God is good and upright. God teaches people who are humble, and God guides them in the right way. David waited for God all day long, because he knew God would never let him down.
At the end of his prayer, David asked God to keep him safe and to rescue him. He asked God to save the people of Israel from all their troubles too. David trusted that God would answer, because God is faithful.
Read It Together
Psalm 25:8-9
8 Good and upright is the LORD, therefore he will instruct sinners in the way. 9 He will guide the humble in justice. He will teach the humble his way.
(WEB)
Point out that God is good and right, and that He teaches people who are humble. Ask the children what it means to be humble, and remind them that asking for help is a humble thing to do.
Psalm 25:15
My eyes are ever on the LORD, for he will pluck my feet out of the net.
(WEB)
Show the children how David kept looking up to God, not down at his troubles. Explain that keeping our eyes on God helps us feel brave, even when things feel scary.
Psalm 25:20
Oh keep my soul, and deliver me. Let me not be disappointed, for I take refuge in you.
(WEB)
Point out that David asked God to keep his soul safe. Explain that David trusted God completely, and that we can run to God for safety too, whenever we feel afraid.
Talk About It
- What do you think it means to ask God to show you His ways?
- When have you felt like you were lost or didn’t know what to do?
- Why do you think God wants to teach us, even when we make mistakes?
- How did David feel at the beginning of his prayer, and how did he feel at the end?
- What is one thing you could ask God to help you with this week?
Activity Ideas
Path Pictures
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and a pencil. Ask each child to draw a winding path that goes from the bottom of the page to the top. Along the path, have them draw a few things that help them find the way, like a sun, a tree, or a friendly sign. Talk together about how God guides us like a path, showing us each step.
Follow the Leader Walk
Clear a space in your room or outside. Tape or chalk a simple zigzag path on the floor. Take turns leading the children along the path while everyone holds up one finger and walks slowly, saying “Show me your paths, O Lord.” This helps children feel what it means to follow someone who knows the way.
Take-Home Prayer Card
You will need index cards or folded paper and a marker. Have each child write or draw one thing they want God to teach them, such as being kind or being patient. Let them take the card home and place it on their bedside table or by their breakfast plate. Encourage them to read it aloud each morning and ask God for help.
Teacher Notes
Psalm 25 is a prayer of trust written by David in a time of trouble. It shows that adults can come to God honestly, admitting their need, their sins, and their fears, and still find that He is faithful and kind. The psalm also teaches that God’s guidance is for the humble, meaning those who depend on Him rather than on their own strength.
Avoid overstating to children that God will always remove every problem they face. David asked for rescue, but the psalm is really about trusting God through difficulty, not about guaranteed outcomes. Focus on God’s character and His presence rather than promising specific results.
A Prayer to Close
Dear Father, thank you for being kind and good to us. Please show us your ways and teach us your paths. When we feel lost or scared, help us remember that you are right here with us. We trust you to guide us each day. Amen.
