This lesson teaches children that God is their protector and rescuer, even when people are unkind to them. It is designed for ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
When people are mean to us, we can tell God how we feel, and we can trust him to help us. God always sees what is happening, and he is always on our side.
Memory Verse
Psalm 35:3
Brandish the spear and block those who pursue me. Tell my soul, “I am your salvation.”
(WEB)
Teach children to hold up both hands like a shield in front of their chest as they say the verse. Then have them point up toward heaven on the words “I am your salvation,” so they connect the promise with God’s help.
The Story: Psalm 35 for Kids
King David wrote this song when people were treating him badly. Some people told lies about him and tried to trap him, like hunters digging a hole to catch an animal. David did not do anything wrong to them. He felt scared and sad, and he did not know what to do.
So David went to God in prayer. He asked God to stand up and fight for him, just like a soldier protects a friend. He said, “Lord, help me! Please rescue me from these people who want to hurt me.” David trusted that God could see everything, even the things David could not see.
David also remembered that God is good to people who are poor and weak. He knew God could protect anyone who is treated unfairly. David promised that he would not stay quiet about God’s goodness. He wanted to thank God in front of many people.
In the end, David was happy because he trusted God to take care of him. He said, “My soul will be joyful in the Lord.” David knew that God would make everything right in his own time.
Read It Together
Psalm 35:1
Contend, the LORD, with those who contend with me. Fight against those who fight against me.
(WEB)
Point out that David asks God to “contend” with the people who are fighting him. Explain that this means God takes up David’s side, like a friend who steps in to help during a fight on the playground.
Psalm 35:9
My soul shall be joyful in the LORD. It shall rejoice in his salvation.
(WEB)
Show children how David moves from worry to joy. Ask them to notice the words “shall be joyful in the LORD,” and explain that trusting God can bring happiness even on hard days.
Psalm 35:17
Lord, how long will you look on? Rescue my soul from their destruction, my precious life from the lions.
(WEB)
Help children see that David talks to God honestly, asking “how long” he must wait. Tell them that God wants to hear our questions and our feelings when we are scared or sad.
Talk About It
- What did David ask God to do when people were being mean to him?
- How do you think David felt when his friends turned against him?
- What is one thing you can tell God when you feel hurt or scared?
- Why do you think God sees everything that happens to us?
- How can you show kindness to someone who is being treated unfairly?
Activity Ideas
Paper Shield Craft
You will need paper plates, markers, glue, and craft sticks or tape. Have each child decorate a paper plate with a cross or a heart, then tape a craft stick to the back to make a shield. Let them write “I am your salvation” along the edge as a reminder that God protects them.
Shield and Net Game
Gather a few soft balls or rolled-up socks and a laundry basket. Children take turns trying to toss a “net” of yarn into the basket while a partner holds up a paper shield to block. Talk about how God protects us when people try to trap us, and cheer for everyone who blocks the throw.
Take-Home Prayer Card
Cut index cards in half and give each child one. Ask them to draw a picture of something that makes them feel safe, such as a bed, a pet, or a family member, and write “God is with me” on the back. Encourage them to keep the card in a pocket or backpack and look at it whenever they feel worried.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Psalm 35 shows that honest prayer is a healthy response to injustice and fear. David does not pretend he feels fine. He brings his anger, confusion, and grief to God, and he trusts God to act justly. The psalm reminds us that God hears the cries of those who are treated unfairly and that he is faithful to defend his people.
When teaching children, avoid suggesting that God will always make enemies disappear or that following God guarantees we will never face trouble. The psalm is a prayer, not a promise of a specific outcome. Focus instead on God’s care, his presence, and our freedom to talk honestly with him.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank you for seeing everything we go through. When people are unkind to us, help us remember that you are our protector. Help us talk to you honestly and trust you to take care of us. We love you, and we know you are always with us. Amen.
