This lesson teaches children that God is good and faithful, and that He gives His people a King who rules with truth, goodness, and love. It is designed for children ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God gives us a King who is good, strong, and always fair. We can love Him and honor Him because He loves what is right.
Memory Verse
Psalm 45:7
You have loved righteousness, and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness above your fellows.
(WEB)
Hold your hands in front of your chest, palms together, then slowly open them like a book. Say “Righteousness” as you open them, then say “Wickedness” as you close them. This helps children connect the two ideas: God loves what is right and hates what is wrong.
The Story: Psalm 45 for Kids
Long ago, a king was getting married, and a poet named the psalmist wrote a special song about him. The poet’s heart felt full of good words, so he wrote them down quickly, like a pen dancing across paper. He wanted everyone to know that this king was truly special.
The song told about the king’s strength and beauty. He wore his sword at his side, ready to protect his people. He rode out to do good things, standing up for truth, kindness, and what is right. Everyone who saw him could tell he was a good leader.
The song also said that God Himself had chosen this king and blessed him with joy. God had poured oil of gladness on him, a sign that he was set apart for an important job. The king’s clothes smelled sweet, and music filled his beautiful palace.
A princess was getting ready to join the king. The poet said, “Listen, daughter, and turn your ear.” She was asked to leave her old home and become part of the king’s family. The people brought gifts and celebrated with gladness as she went into the palace.
At the end of the song, the poet promised that the king’s name would be remembered for many generations. People would keep giving thanks to God for such a good king. The king’s family would grow strong, and his kingdom would last. It was a happy day, full of joy and praise.
Read It Together
Psalm 45:1
My heart overflows with a noble theme. I recite my verses for the king. My tongue is like the pen of a skillful writer.
(WEB)
Point out that the psalmist’s heart was overflowing with good words. Ask children what it feels like when they are so happy they want to share something with everyone around them.
Psalm 45:6
Your throne, God, is forever and ever. A scepter of equity is the scepter of your kingdom.
(WEB)
Show children that God’s throne lasts forever and ever. Explain that unlike earthly kings who come and go, God is always ruling, and His kingdom never ends.
Psalm 45:17
I will make your name to be remembered in all generations. Therefore the peoples shall give you thanks forever and ever.
(WEB)
Help children see that the psalmist wanted people to remember and thank God for a long time. Talk about how we can thank God for the good things He has done for us.
Talk About It
- What kind of king did the psalmist describe, and what made him special?
- Why do you think the king loved what was right and hated what was wrong?
- How did the psalmist feel about the king, and how can you tell from the words he wrote?
- What are some ways we can show respect and honor to people who lead us?
- What is one good thing God has done for you that you want to thank Him for today?
Activity Ideas
Crown Drawing
You will need paper, crayons or markers, and scissors. Have each child draw and color a crown, then write or draw one thing that makes a good king or queen special. Cut out the crowns and tape them into strips to wear. Encourage children to talk about the qualities they wrote down.
Royal Parade Game
Gather the children in a line and let them march around the room like a royal procession. Play a happy song while they walk, and every few steps, call out a word like “truth,” “kindness,” or “fairness.” Children should stop and strike a royal pose for each word. This helps them remember the qualities of God’s chosen King through movement.
Take-Home Thank You Card
Give each child an index card and a pencil. Ask them to write or draw one thing they are thankful to God for this week. Encourage them to put the card somewhere they will see it each day, like on the refrigerator or by their bed. Let them share the card with their family at dinner.
Teacher Notes
Psalm 45 is a royal wedding song that points to the goodness and faithfulness of God, who chooses and blesses His people’s leaders. Adults can see in it a picture of a King whose rule is righteous and whose kingdom lasts forever, a theme Christians have long connected to Jesus. The psalm invites us to trust God’s character and to honor those He places in authority over us.
Avoid telling children that every detail of the poem is a secret code or hidden prophecy, since that can confuse them and move attention away from the main message. Keep the focus on what the psalm clearly says: God is good, His king is righteous, and God deserves our thanks.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, thank You for being a good and faithful King who loves what is right. Help us to love truth and kindness like You do, and help us to honor the people You have placed in our lives. Thank You that Your kingdom lasts forever. Amen.
