David Is Kind to Mephibosheth

1 Samuel 20:14-17; 2 Samuel 9:1-13


Our story comes from the Bible. It is found in the part of the Bible called 1 Samuel ("First Samuel") and from 2 Samuel ("Second Samuel"). The two books in the Bible named after Samuel.

David had a very good friend named Jonathan.

Jonathan and David made a promise to always care for each other’s families.

Years later, David became king.

One day, David asked, “Is there anyone from Jonathan’s family I can help?”

Someone said, “Jonathan has a son named Mephibosheth.”

Mephibosheth was brought to David. He was afraid.

But David said, “Do not be afraid. I will be kind to you because of your father Jonathan.”

David gave Mephibosheth a place to live.

David made sure he had food.

David even invited Mephibosheth to eat at the king’s table!

David kept his promise and showed kindness.

Jesus helps us see this clearly.

Jesus welcomes us, loves us, and cares for us too.

Key Takeaway for Preschoolers

We can be kind and keep our promises.


Dear God,

Thank You for teaching us to be kind. Help us to keep our promises. Help us to love and care for others. We love you, God.

In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.





Bible Verse: “A new commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another.” — John 13:34, BSB

Paraphrase: Jesus says, “Love each other the way I love you.”



Activities

These activities help preschoolers engage with the story through movement, crafts, music, and storytelling, making the lesson fun and memorable.


1. Promise Circle

Objective: To help children understand keeping promises.

Materials: None 

Activity: Sit in a circle. Each child makes a simple promise (e.g., “I will be kind,” “I will share”). Talk about how we try to keep our promises.

Talk About It: “Why is it important to keep promises?”


2. Kindness Cards

Objective: To encourage acts of kindness.

Materials: Paper, Crayons or markers

Activity: Help children create a simple card or drawing for someone (family member, friend, or teacher) as an act of kindness.

Talk About It: “How can we show kindness to others?”


 3. “God Helps Me Be Kind” Song (Musical Activity)

Tune: Mary Had a Little Lamb (Public Domain)

Objective: To reinforce kindness and promise-keeping.

Materials: None 

Activity: Teach the song and encourage gentle hand motions.

Song Lyrics:

        God helps me be kind each day,
        Kind each day, kind each day,
        God helps me be kind each day,
        And keep my promises.

        I can share and I can care,
        I can care, I can care,
        I can share and I can care,
        And show love every day.

Talk About It: “How can we be kind like David?”


4. “Welcome to the Table” Activity

Objective: To reinforce inclusion and belonging.

Materials: Chairs or small table 

Activity: Set up a small “table.” Invite each child to come and sit, emphasizing that everyone is welcome—just like Mephibosheth was welcomed.

Talk About It: “How can we help others feel welcome?”

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Story illustrations are the copyright of James M. Thomas. All rights reserved.
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