Important Lessons from Children in the Bible

A fun way to teach kids about the Bible is to use the stories of children found within the Bible. Check out the stories of four youngsters who have a thing or two to teach us about our own faith lives!

Jesus shows us how to share the gospel. (Luke 2)
Though we only get a brief glimpse of Jesus’ childhood, we know that even as a child he had a passion for sharing God’s Word. After all, 12-year-old Jesus once stayed in Jerusalem by himself to study with others in the temple while his parents started their journey home after the Festival of the Passover.

While people were impressed with Jesus’ knowledge as a child, it wouldn’t be that way forever (fast forward to chapter 22 where he is betrayed, arrested, mocked, and beaten). His passion for sharing God’s Word despite his inevitable death on the cross should certainly inspire us to do the same.

Jeremiah’s apprehension teaches us to trust the Lord. (Jeremiah 1)
Sure proof that he’s human, Jeremiah second guesses God’s choice when he’s called to be a prophet. Out of fear that he is too young for such responsibility, Jeremiah argues that he’s not a good speaker. God replies in verses 7 and 8, “Do not say, ‘I am too young.’ You must go to everyone I send you to and say whatever I command you. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you and will rescue you.”

These verses are an excellent reminder to us that, no matter how many excuses we can think up, God will provide the words and tools we need to share His story with others. Whether it’s from memory in the middle of a conversation or by seeking guidance from Scripture and following up after the fact, we’re never too young to share the love of God with others.

David demonstrates bravery, self-confidence, and faith. (1 Samuel 17)
When sent by his father to deliver food to his older brothers in battle, David’s faith gives him the courage to stand up to the great warrior Goliath who is older, stronger, and has more training in battle. Described as a “young man” who is “little more than a boy,” David pushes past the perceptions of others, including his own brother, to take on Goliath with just a sling and a few stones.

He vocalizes his faith just before entering battle in verses 36 and 37: “Your servant has killed both the lion and the bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, because he has defied the armies of the living God. The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.”

David’s words and actions remind us to trust the power and promises of Christ over the perceptions of others in this world as we strive to carry out His work each day.

Josiah sets a good example for others. (2 Kings 22)
Despite his age and the poor example set by his ancestors, Josiah was a role model for the people of Judah from the moment he became king at just eight-years-old. Josiah “did what was right in the eyes of the LORD” by repairing the temple, doing away with idols, and upholding the law of the Lord.

“Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the Lord as he did—with all his heart and with all his soul and with all his strength, in accordance with all the Law of Moses” (2 Kings 23:25).

Josiah’s story serves as a friendly reminder that we all have the power to be a positive role model for others by turning to the Lord for guidance and following His commands.