Teach children how David became king through patience, grief, and obedience to God’s plan. Includes fun printable activities in English and Spanish!
Learning Objectives
- Children will understand that God has a perfect plan and timing for our lives.
- Children will learn about David’s respect and grief for Saul and Jonathan.
- Children will see how David became king in stages and trusted God through it all.
Introductory Activity
Start by asking: “Have you ever had to wait a long time for something you really wanted?” Invite responses and then play a simple waiting game, like “Red Light, Green Light,” to reinforce the theme of patience and God’s timing.
Memory Verse
Psalm 27:14 (NIV)
“Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.”
Have children write or decorate this verse as a reminder of how David waited patiently for God’s promise to be fulfilled.
Bible Story Summary
David’s journey to becoming king was long and filled with challenges. Even though God had chosen David to be king many years before, he waited patiently and never tried to take the throne by force. He served under King Saul, even when Saul mistreated him. David trusted God’s timing.
In 2 Samuel 1, David learns that King Saul and his dear friend Jonathan have died in battle. Rather than rejoicing over the death of someone who tried to harm him, David mourned deeply. He wrote a heartfelt song of lament to honor Saul and Jonathan. This shows David’s respect and love, even for a complicated relationship.
In 2 Samuel 2:1–7, David asks God what to do next. God tells him to go to Hebron, and there the people of Judah anoint him king. But David was not king over all Israel yet, only over Judah. Saul’s son Ish-Bosheth ruled the other tribes, and for years there was conflict.
Finally, in 2 Samuel 5, after much waiting and after the death of Saul’s son, all the tribes of Israel come together to make David their king. David was 30 years old when he began to rule, and he reigned for 40 years.
Under David’s leadership, Jerusalem became the capital, and the nation began to unite. Through it all, David showed humility, patience, and faith in God’s promises.
Lessons from the Story
- God’s timing is perfect: Even though David had been promised the throne, he waited patiently and obediently.
- Respect others, even in hard times: David mourned Saul, showing honor and compassion.
- God sees the heart: David’s trust and faithfulness were the reasons God chose him.
Creative Teaching Ideas
- Fun and engaging worksheets: Use worksheets that promote learning and independent work.
- Crown Timeline: Create a timeline of David’s journey from shepherd boy to king. Have children decorate a paper crown as they track key events.
- Waiting Game Challenge: Incorporate a series of small challenges where kids have to wait before completing each task, reinforcing patience.
- Gratitude Letters: Like David’s song for Saul and Jonathan, have children write a short note honoring someone they appreciate.
Closing Encouragement
Remind children that just like David, God may have great plans for their lives that unfold slowly. Waiting can be hard, but it builds trust, strength, and faith. Encourage them to talk to God and follow His leading, just like David did.
Looking for more?
Bring this powerful story to life with the David Becomes King Bible Lesson Activity Pack! This printable set includes fun worksheets, coloring pages, and engaging activities to help kids understand David’s journey to the throne. Available in English and Spanish.
