This lesson teaches children that God wants His people to listen to Him and follow His ways, because He remembers how He rescued them. It works well for children aged 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes to teach.
Big Idea
God takes care of His people, so we should listen to Him and trust Him instead of going our own way.
Memory Verse
Psalm 81:10
I am the LORD, your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt. Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it.
(WEB)
Have children cup their hands in front of their mouths, then slowly open their arms wide as they say the verse together. Each time you say “open your mouth wide,” show them the big open-mouth motion so they remember that God invites us to ask Him for what we need.
The Story: Psalm 81 for Kids
Long ago, the people of Israel lived in Egypt, where they were treated very unfairly. They had to carry heavy baskets of bricks and their backs and hands hurt every day. They cried out to God for help, and God heard their cries.
God set them free and led them out of Egypt. He took the heavy burden off their shoulders and gave them rest. Even when they were in trouble, God answered them, and He tested their faith at a place called Meribah, where they needed water.
God spoke to His people and said, “Hear me, my people. I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt.” He wanted them to remember who rescued them. He told them not to worship any other gods, only Him.
But the people did not listen. They wanted to do what they wanted instead. God said, “Oh, that my people would listen to me!” It made God sad that they chose their own way over His way.
Even though the people wandered away, God still loved them. He said He would give them the very best food and sweet honey from the rock. God always wants to take care of His people when they trust Him.
Read It Together
Psalm 81:1-2
1 Sing aloud to God, our strength! Make a joyful shout to the God of Jacob! 2 Raise a song, and bring here the tambourine, the pleasant lyre with the harp.
(WEB)
Point out that the psalm begins with singing and shouting joyfully to God. Ask the children why they think God’s people should sing to Him, and remind them that God is our strength.
Psalm 81:6-7
6 “I removed his shoulder from the burden. His hands were freed from the basket. 7 You called in trouble, and I delivered you. I answered you in the secret place of thunder. I tested you at the waters of Meribah.” Selah.
(WEB)
Show how God says He lifted the burden from His people and answered them when they called. Help the children see that God hears them when they are in trouble, just as He heard the Israelites.
Psalm 81:13
Oh that my people would listen to me, that Israel would walk in my ways!
(WEB)
Point out God’s longing that His people would listen and walk in His ways. Explain that God wants us to follow Him because He loves us and knows what is good for us.
Talk About It
- What are some ways God has helped you when you were scared or in trouble?
- Why do you think God wanted His people to remember that He brought them out of Egypt?
- What might make it hard for us to listen to God’s voice?
- How can we show God that we want to follow His ways every day?
- What good things did God promise to give His people when they trusted Him?
Activity Ideas
Paper Plate Honey Rock
Give each child a paper plate, brown paper, glue, and a little yellow paint or crayon. Have them tear the brown paper into rock shapes and glue them onto the plate, then dab yellow paint on top to look like honey dripping down. As they work, talk about how God gave His people sweet food in the desert and how He still provides for us today.
Listen and Follow Game
Choose one child to be the leader and have everyone else stand in a line behind them. The leader calls out simple movements like “hop,” “clap,” or “turn around,” and the others must listen carefully and copy them. Afterward, explain that just as the children had to listen to the leader, God wants us to listen to His voice and follow Him.
Take-Home Reminder Card
Give each child an index card and crayons to draw a picture of something God has done for them. Have them write the words “Listen to God” at the bottom and tape the card to their bedroom mirror or fridge. Encourage them to look at it each morning and ask God to help them listen to Him throughout the day.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this psalm is a call to remember God’s faithfulness in past rescue and to respond with trust and obedience. It shows that God’s people often struggle to listen, yet God remains patient, loving, and ready to provide for those who return to Him.
With children, avoid overstating God’s anger toward the Israelites. The psalm does speak of God letting them go their own way, but it is more helpful to focus on God’s loving invitation to listen and His desire to bless them.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, thank You for rescuing us and for always hearing us when we call. Help us listen carefully to Your voice and follow You every day. Thank You for taking care of us and giving us good things. Amen.
