King Saul was not a strong leader. He had disappointed God and was not rejected by God and cut off from Samuel. God directed Samuel to find someone new to be the king. Instead of asking for forgiveness, Saul's attitude becomes worse. Once he finds out about the new king, he becomes so jealous he is willing to murder God's anointed king.  

Saul is characterized by his fear, lack of faith, jealousy and eventual downfall. HIs life is an illustration of poor leadership and a lack of integrity. 
Key Themes:

1. Integrity is doing what is right, even when no one is looking. 
2. Obedience is a choice that requires faith and submission to God. 
3. Saul's pride led to his downfall. 

I John 5:3a
“This is love for God: to obey His commands.”

Books of the Old Testament
The B.I.B.L.E.
He’s Got The Whole World in His Hands
​Hear, O Israel
Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus
My God is so Big
There is a Flag that Flies in the Castle of My Heart
Who's the King of the Jungle
​Trust and Obey

Begin Class with Songs, Games, Table Activity, or Sharing Time
 
Open Class in Prayer

Introducing the Story Ideas
1. Pride vs. Humility
Introduce children to the words "pride" and "humility." Ask the children: “What does it mean to be proud of something? Can being proud sometimes get us into trouble?” "What does humility look like?" 

​Let them share their thoughts. Give them scenarios in which they can say what the prideful reaction would be and what a humble reaction would be. Explain that today, they will learn about a king who let his pride get the best of him, leading to serious consequences.

2."The Lost Message" Puzzle
Help the children understand the chain of events that led to Saul’s downfall and how his choices affected him negatively.
Description:
Create a puzzle that represents King Saul's journey of disobedience. You can use one of the free blank puzzle printables. Write the key elements of the story on separate puzzle pieces (for example: “King Saul disobeys God,” “King Saul visits the witch,” “Saul hears Samuel's spirit,” etc.). The children will put the pieces together in order, and once the puzzle is completed, discuss the lessons from the story.

Discuss how Saul’s actions impacted his relationship with God and what happens when we choose to disobey God or look for answers outside of Him.

3. Information Sources
The Witch of Endor teaches us the danger of seeking answers from ungodly sources. Where do we go when we need advice? Brainstorm a list of sources such as: parents, phones, internet, books, magazines, the Bible. Discuss how you judge if something/someone is a good source of information. 

Story: ​In this story, King Saul needs advice. Instead of going to God, he seeks advice in a very strange way! He breaks God's law (and his own law) and seeks out a witch for advice. This is the last time Saul will disobey God. Just as predicted, Saul and his sons will die in his final battle. David will be the next king. 

SHOW the power point King Saul's Last Days or read 1 Samuel 28-31.
EMPHASIZE that:

• God wants us to go to him for advice. 
• We should trust God and seek his advice when we need to make tough decisions.
  
• Saul's pride led to his downfall. 

Printable Story Board from Cathy's Corner

Video: Saul and the Witch of Endor by Bible Pathways Kids

Challenge the children to come up with "God is" statements based on this story such as God is faithful, God is powerful, etc. ​

Fingerprint Heart Craft by Oriental Trading
Discuss the idea of having a hard heart like Saul. 

Warning Signs
Have the children make warning signs as a reminder to stay away from things that are not in line with God's Word, just as Saul should have avoided going to the Witch of Endor. They can draw a witch’s hat or a symbol of something that could represent anything in their lives that they should avoid (e.g., things like “bad advice,” “false teachings,” etc.).
Reinforce the idea that some paths, like Saul’s decision to consult the witch, are dangerous and go against God’s commands.
After crafting the signs, talk about what other things we should avoid as Christians (e.g., fortune-telling, occult practices, disobedience). Discuss how God wants us to follow His way, not our own way or the ways of the world.

Guidance Compass Craft
Materials Needed: Paper plates, markers, scissors, glue, brads, cardstock, pencils OR Compass Craft from Oriental Trading
Help the children make a simple compass that represents God’s guidance in our lives. Use a paper plate as the base, and draw a compass on it. Cut out an arrow from cardstock that can spin in the center using a brad (fastener). Have the kids decorate the compass with symbols of God’s guidance, such as a Bible, prayer hands, or a cross.
Discuss how the compass points toward the right direction, just like God’s Word and guidance lead us in the right direction when we listen to Him.

King Saul was not a strong leader. He had disappointed God and was not rejected by God and cut off from Samuel. God directed Samuel to find someone new to be the king. Instead of asking for forgiveness, Saul's attitude becomes worse. Once he finds out about the new king, he becomes extremely jealous and tries to kill David. 
Key Themes:

1. Jealousy does not please God. 
2. We need to show mercy to others. 
3. Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart. 

I John 5:3a
“This is love for God: to obey His commands.”

Books of the Old Testament
The B.I.B.L.E.
He’s Got The Whole World in His Hands
​Hear, O Israel
Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus
My God is so Big
There is a Flag that Flies in the Castle of My Heart
Who's the King of the Jungle
​Trust and Obey

Begin Class with Songs, Games, Table Activity, or Sharing Time
 
Open Class in Prayer

Introducing the Story Ideas
1. Sleeping Saul Game: Place an item on the floor along with a cushion. One child should play the part of Saul. The child should be blindfolded, lie on the cushion, and pretend to sleep. Choose one child to come and take the item away quietly. The child who has picked up the item should lay it down in an agreed-upon place and then join the rest of the group. When he or she says “mercy”, the “sleeping” child removes their blindfold and guesses who took the item. Children will quickly learn to disguise their voices. (From Mission Bible Class)

2. Jealousy Emotion Chart
Have kids create a "Jealousy Emotion Chart" where they list situations where they feel jealous. Discuss positive ways to deal with those feelings, such as praying for others or being grateful for what they have. Discuss the consequences of acting on feelings of jealousy in a negative way. 

3. Green Eyed Monster Mash
SAY: Some people call the emotion of jealousy "the green-eyed monster." Sometimes when we act in jealousy, it is like a monster has taken over! Today, we are going to talk about how Saul's jealousy took over him so much that he tried to have someone killed! We have to keep the jealousy monster out of our heart! Discuss ways to mash the feelings of jealousy and keep the green eyed monster from taking over! 

Story: ​In this story, King Saul knows that he has messed up with God! God has rejected him and as a consequence, King Saul's son Jonathan will not get to be the next king. Instead, God has chosen a shepherd boy to be the next king of Israel. This makes Saul feel disappointed, angry and worst of all, jealous of David. As usual, Saul allows his feelings to get the better of him, and he makes some very bad choices. 

SHOW the power point David and King Saul or read 1 Samuel 23-24.
EMPHASIZE that:

• God wants us to obey Him. 
• We need to have the courage to do what is right. 
• Instead of being jealous, we can celebrate others' successes.

Video: David and Saul by God's Story

Video: David Serves Saul by Saddleback Kids

Video: David and Saul by Saddleback Kids

Video: What happened after David Defeated Goliath? by Minno

Challenge the children to come up with "God is" statements based on this story such as God is faithful, God is powerful, etc. ​

David and Saul in a Cave Printable by 10 Minutes of Quality Time

Green Eyed Monster Craft

​Jealousy Journals:  Decorate inexpensive journals from the Dollar Store. Have the kids write or draw about a time they felt jealous and how they could have responded better.

Jealousy vs. Friendship Chart:
On the whiteboard or a large piece of paper, create a "Jealousy vs. Friendship" chart with two columns. In the "Jealousy" column, write negative behaviors associated with jealousy (e.g., complaining, getting mad, feeling bitter), and in the "Friendship" column, write positive behaviors (e.g., cheering others on, saying “well done,” being kind).

God has a special plan for Israel. This plan set them apart from the nations around them. Even though God warned the people of Israel that an earthly king would come with consequences, they insisted on having one. God gave them King Saul. However, King Saul was not a strong leader. 
Key Themes:

1. Integrity is standing up for what is right even if your standing alone.
   
2. We need to follow God's plan. 
3. Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart. 

I John 5:3a
“This is love for God: to obey His commands.”

Books of the Old Testament
The B.I.B.L.E.
He’s Got The Whole World in His Hands
​Hear, O Israel
Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus
My God is so Big
There is a Flag that Flies in the Castle of My Heart
Who's the King of the Jungle
​Trust and Obey

Begin Class with Songs, Games, Table Activity, or Sharing Time
 
Open Class in Prayer

Introducing the Story Ideas
1. A Recipe for Disaster
Bring a recipe and its ingredients, as well as other silly ingredients that are not in the recipe. Talk to the children about adding things not required by the recipe, or leaving out things that are required. Discuss the results. (Source: Apologetics Press)

2. Playing with Fire Object Lesson

• Supplies: Lighter or Matches
• Demonstrate how the lighter or matches work. Discuss how it could be used for good (light a grill, birthday candles, etc.) SAY: Are you allowed to play with matches or lighters at home? What could happen if you do not follow the rules? 
• Fire can be used for very good things, such as cooking food or keeping warm. But if it is not used correctly, it can quickly get out of control and cause a lot of damage or hurt someone. This is where rules are important. Rules keep us safe. In today's story, God gave Saul rules or directions. However, Saul believed he knew better than God. He tried to bend the rules to do what he wanted to do. 
• Note: For older kids, you may want to discuss bending rules vs. breaking rules. 

3. Excuses Bee
Have an “excuses bee.” Children stand in a line. One at a time, the children must make an excuse people might say for doing something wrong (Example: I disobeyed my mum because I didn’t hear her.) If any child cannot think of an excuse, they sit down. The answers might get silly, but so do excuses. (From MissionBibleClass.org) 


Story: ​In this story, King Saul goes into battle against the Amalekites. God gives Saul a few very clear directions about what he is to do after he wins the battle. Saul disobeys God and then tries to justify his actions instead of admitting he disobeyed. This story reveals that Saul lacked the courage and faith to lead the Israelites in a way that pleases God. God rejects him as king. 

SHOW the power point King Saul Attacks the Amalekites or read 1 Samuel 15:1-35.
EMPHASIZE that:

• God wants us to obey Him. 
• We need to have the courage to do what is right. 
• God needs strong leaders in His church. 

Video: The Rise and Fall of Saul by The Biggest Story

Video: King Saul and the Battle of Against the Ammonites (a good video if you want to tell the story of another incident with Saul) 

Video: King Saul by Trueway Kids

Challenge the children to come up with "God is" statements based on this story such as God is faithful, God is powerful, etc. ​

King Saul Happy vs. Sad Puppets by Danielle's Place

I Obey God Wheel on Etsy

Listening Ears Craft from Mama Jenn

God has a special plan for Israel. This plan set them apart from the nations around them. They were to be a unique people, pointing to the true and living God and living their life for Him. However, like so many times people do, they looked at the people around them and decided they would rather blend in than stand out. 

Key Themes:

1. If we love God, we will obey him. 
2. We need to follow God's plan. 
3. Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart. 

I John 5:3a
“This is love for God: to obey His commands.”

Books of the Old Testament
The B.I.B.L.E.
He’s Got The Whole World in His Hands
​Hear, O Israel
Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus
My God is so Big
There is a Flag that Flies in the Castle of My Heart
Who's the King of the Jungle

Begin Class with Songs, Games, Table Activity, or Sharing Time
 
Open Class in Prayer

Introducing the Story Ideas
1. Kings and Queens
Show some photos of famous kings and queens. You may share if they were a good ruler or a bad one. Talk about how much power that person has. Discuss what it would be like to be a king or queen. What kind of rules would you make? SAY: In today's story, we are going to learn about Israel's first king. Remember, they didn't have a king like the nations around them because God was their king. 

2. Follow God's Voice

• Activity: In this story, the people chose to have a king instead of following God's voice. 
• Set up an obstacle course or scavenger hunt. Give students specific, sequential instructions and see if they can follow them closely.
• This will show them how important it is to listen and obey when God speaks to us.

3. Oil as a Symbol

• Activity: Bring a bottle of olive oil or something that looks similar. Explain how Samuel anointed Saul with oil as a sign that God had chosen him.
• Discuss how oil is used in the Bible as a symbol of being chosen as king in the Bible. 

Story: ​In this story, Israelites decide they want a king to lead them. In doing so, they reject God as king. The Israelites are warned of the consequences of having an earthly king but still choose to go their own way. Saul is chosen as Israel's first king, primarily based on his outward appearance. He is reluctant to take up the task but eventually becomes the king. 

SHOW the power point Samuel Anoints Saul as King or read 1 Samuel 8:1-10:27.
EMPHASIZE that:

• God is our king. 
• We need to live our life according to God's Word, not the world's standards. 
• God needs strong leaders in His church. 

Video: Saul is Anointed King by My First Bible

Video: Israel's First King by IShare

Challenge the children to come up with "God is" statements based on this story such as God is faithful, God is powerful, etc. ​

Kids Paper Crown Craft by Trueway Kids

Samuel Anoints Saul by 10 Minutes of Quality Time

Paper Plate Crown by Bible Fun for Kids

Game: The Kings Challenge
In order to lead Israel, Saul needed to trust God, and demonstrate wisdom and leadership. Create a series of "kings challenges" to demonstrate what it would look like to "train" Saul to become a good king. 
Here are some ideas: A blindfolded obstacle course (trust), trivia about Bible characters who showed wisdom/trusted God,  a puzzle with the memory verse, Bible verse find with verses about trust and wisdom.

Molded in His Image
Supplies: clay or playdough
Challenge the kids to make something out of playdough that represents them. (They may make a basketball, or a video game controller, etc.)
Read Isaiah 64:8
For older kids, this may be a good time to discuss peer pressure and the power of influence. Who do they look up to? Who are they modeling? Who or what is "king" of their life. Who is "molding" or has influence over their life?

In the stories of the judges, and later in the kings, we see the importance of leadership. With strong, godly leaders, the Israelites please God and prosper. We also see how weak and worldly leaders lead the people away from God and the consequences of those actions. 

In Judges, we see the results of strong, but flawed people leading the Israelites. Like Moses, Gideon was hesitant to lead as God called him, but in faith did defeat the enemies of God and His people. 

Key Themes: 

• God chose Israel to bring salvation to the World. 
• Integrity is standing for what is right, even if it means standing alone. 
• God wants us to have faith in Him. 

Joshua 24:15
“But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve…But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”

Books of the Old Testament
The B.I.B.L.E.
He’s Got The Whole World in His Hands
​Hear, O Israel
​Joshua Fought the Battle of Jericho
Stand Up, Stand Up for Jesus
I'm in the Lord's Army
My God is so Big
The Judges Song
​The Battle Belongs to the Lord
The Judges Song

Begin Class with Songs, Games, Table Activity, or Sharing Time
 
Open Class in Prayer

Introducing the Story Ideas
1. Gideon's Fleece
Introduce this story by telling/reminding the children about Gideon's backstory and how he asked God for a sign to make sure he was doing the right thing. If possible, show the children a lamb's fleece. 

2. Gideon’s 300 Challenge – Obstacle Course

• Activity: Set up an obstacle course representing the battle. This can demonstrate the idea of the small number of people God used in Gideon’s army.
• Materials: Cones, hula hoops, ropes, or any safe obstacle course materials.
• Instructions: Have children complete the obstacle course one at a time or in teams. Remind them that even though Gideon had only 300 men, God made them victorious. This can help them understand that with God's help, even small efforts can lead to big results.

3. Craft: “Gideon’s Horn”

• Activity: Create a craft where children make a horn (or trumpet) to represent the signal given to Gideon’s army.
• Materials: Paper, scissors, glue, markers, or crayons.
• Instructions: Guide children in making a simple trumpet out of paper, coloring and decorating it as they like. Allow the children to take part in acting out the story by blowing their horn when you get to that part. 

Story: ​In this story, Gideon is called by God to lead the Israelites. But, Gideon is hesitant at first. He wants to make sure that God was actually giving him this message. He makes a deal with God using a lamb's fleece. Both times, God showed Gideon that he was calling Gideon and promised him success. Leadership requires faith and courage, but as we see over and over again, the Israelite people are only as faithful as their leaders. 

SHOW the power point Gideon's Battle with the Midianites or read Judges 7:1-25.
EMPHASIZE that:

• God needs faithful leaders! 
• God wants us to have faith. 
• God wants us to stand up for what is right. 

Video: Gideon by God's Story

Video: Gideon and His 300 Men by Saddleback Kids

Video: The Call of Gideon by My First Bible

Video: Gideon and the 300 Men by My First Bible

Challenge the children to come up with "God is" statements based on this story such as God is faithful, God is powerful, etc. ​

Gideon's Torch Craft by Trueway Kids

Gideon's Torch Suncatcher by Crafting the Word of God

Gideon’s Army Banner Activity: Let children create a banner or poster representing Gideon’s army. This is a craft that helps them reflect on how Gideon’s army was small, yet God used them to win the battle.
Materials: Poster board or shield, markers, crayons, fabric scraps (to symbolize the army’s gear), stickers, and glue.
Instructions: Have the children draw or glue fabric pieces to make a banner or shield representing God’s victory through Gideon’s small army. As they do this, remind them how God used the little things to accomplish great things.