This lesson teaches children that the LORD reigns as a holy King who listens when His people call on Him. It suits children aged 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including the story, questions and a short activity.
Big Idea
God is holy and powerful, and He is also near. When we call on Him, He hears us and answers.
Memory Verse
Psalm 99:9
Exalt the LORD, our God. Worship at his holy hill, for the LORD, our God, is holy!
(WEB)
Hold both hands up high, then fold them together at your heart. Say “He is holy!” while you move. Let the motion remind children that God is worthy of our worship every day.
The Story: Psalm 99 for Kids
Long ago, God’s people lived in a land He had promised them. The psalm writer wanted everyone to remember that God is the true King, the one who sits on a throne above the heavens. Even the earth shakes before Him, so the writer told the people to tremble with respect and awe.
The psalm then looks back at some of God’s special friends. Moses and Aaron served as leaders and priests. Samuel was a man who prayed to God often. When these people called out to the LORD, He answered them. Each time, God spoke to them and guided them in the right way.
God was not only powerful. He was also fair. He cared about justice, which means doing what is right and treating people kindly. The people were told to obey His rules, and God helped them learn how to live as His own family.
Even when the people made mistakes, God forgave them. He did not forget that they needed mercy. The psalm says He answered them, which shows that God keeps His promises and listens to His children.
At the end of the psalm, the writer invites everyone to worship God on His holy hill. The writer says, “Exalt the LORD our God,” which means to lift Him high and praise Him for who He is. The story ends with one clear message: God is holy, and we can always come to Him.
Read It Together
Psalm 99:1
The LORD reigns! Let the peoples tremble. He sits enthroned among the cherubim. Let the earth be moved.
(WEB)
Point out that the LORD reigns as King. Ask children what kind of king sits on a throne and what it means that He is in charge of everything.
Psalm 99:6
Moses and Aaron were among his priests, Samuel among those who call on his name; they called on the LORD, and he answered them.
(WEB)
Show how Moses, Aaron and Samuel each called on God. Explain that God answered them, and ask children how they can call on God today.
Psalm 99:8
You answered them, the LORD our God. You are a God who forgave them, although you took vengeance for their doings.
(WEB)
Point out that God forgave His people even when they had done wrong. Help children see that God’s forgiveness is a gift we can always receive.
Talk About It
- What does the word holy mean to you, and how does God show that He is holy?
- Who in this story called out to God, and what did God do when they prayed?
- Why do you think God wants us to worship Him and lift Him high?
- When you feel scared or sad, what could you say to God?
- How did God show that He was fair and kind to His people?
Activity Ideas
Draw a Crown for the King
Give each child a sheet of paper, crayons or markers, and a strip of construction paper to make a crown. Ask them to draw a picture of God sitting on His throne above the earth. Then let them write or draw one thing they know about God’s holiness. Have them tape the crown above their picture so they can see God as the King who reigns.
Holy, Holy, Holy Freeze Game
Gather the children in an open space and tell them to walk around like people on a journey. When you call out “Holy!” everyone freezes and lifts their hands high like they are honoring a king. Call out “Answer!” and they cup their hands by their ears as if listening. Keep the game short and energetic, and finish by reminding everyone that God hears every prayer.
Prayer Jar at Home
You will need a clean jar, paper, a pen and a small box or basket. Invite your child to write a simple prayer request on a slip of paper and place it in the jar. Each evening, pick one slip and pray about it together, thanking God that He listens and answers. This gives the family a regular way to remember that God is near.
Teacher Notes
For adults, Psalm 99 celebrates the LORD as the reigning King whose holiness is unmatched. It recalls how He answered faithful leaders like Moses, Aaron and Samuel, and it shows that His justice and forgiveness go hand in hand. The psalm invites worship that is both reverent and joyful, recognizing God’s rule over all peoples.
When teaching children, avoid overstating how God’s answers always look like what we expect. The psalm says God answered His people, but it does not promise a specific outcome for each prayer. Focus on God’s character and His faithful presence rather than guaranteeing particular results.
A Prayer to Close
Lord, You are holy and You reign as King over all the earth. Thank You for listening when we call on You. Help us lift You high in our hearts and remember that You are near. Forgive us when we get things wrong, and teach us to trust You every day. Amen.
