God’s Promise to Abraham (Genesis 15–17)

Overview

Genesis 15–17 highlights God’s covenant promise to Abraham: descendants like the stars, a secure future, and the promised child Isaac. Genesis 16 also shows the struggle of waiting and how God tenderly sees Hagar.

Complete Kid-Friendly Narrative (Teacher Read-Aloud)

Abram loved God, but he had a big worry: “I don’t have a child.” God spoke to him, “Do not be afraid.” Then God brought Abram outside and said, “Look at the sky! Count the stars—if you can!” God promised Abram would have a huge family one day. Abram believed God, and God was pleased.

God also made a covenant—an unbreakable promise. Abram saw a sign like a smoking fire pot and a flaming torch, showing that God Himself would keep His promise.

But waiting was hard. Sarai and Abram tried to solve the problem their own way. Sarai gave her servant Hagar to Abram, and Hagar became pregnant. Hurt and conflict grew, and Hagar ran away. But God saw Hagar in the wilderness and spoke hope to her. Hagar learned that God sees her, and she returned. Her son was named Ishmael.

Years later, God spoke again: “Walk with Me.” God changed Abram’s name to Abraham and Sarai’s name to Sarah. God promised Sarah would have a son named Isaac. God also gave a covenant sign to remind Abraham’s family that they belonged to God.

Memory Verse

Genesis 15:6 (ESV)
“And he believed the LORD, and he counted it to him as righteousness.”

3 Lessons to Learn (Updated)

1. God is good even when things are hard.

2. Be thankful for what God has given you.

3. Thank God every day for His gifts.

Suggested Arts & Crafts

1. Star Promise Jar: Kids draw paper stars and write gratitude words (family, food, church, friends).

2. Thankful Star Crown: Cut a crown with star points; write “God is good” and “Thank You, Lord!”

3. Gift-of-God Cards: Make “thank you” cards to God (prayer cards) with star stickers and a daily gratitude list.

Suggested Games

1. Star Count Scatter: Hide paper stars; kids find them and say one thing they thank God for.

2. Goodness in Hard Times Freeze Game: Call out “hard time” scenarios; kids freeze and say “God is good!” then share a thankful thought.

3. Daily Thanks Toss: Toss a soft ball; whoever catches says one gift from God and passes it on.

4 Sunday School Songs (Topic-Fit)

1. “Father Abraham”

2. “My God Is So Big”

3. “Give Thanks with a Grateful Heart”

Video

Powerpoint: DOWNLOAD