For Kids · 3 min with a grown-up
Paul kept writing to Timothy. In this part of the letter, he taught Timothy how to treat people in God's family — like they really are family.
Today's Story
Paul wanted Timothy to remember something special: God's family really is a family. Even people who aren't your mom or dad or brother or sister can be like family when they love God too.
So Paul gave Timothy a gentle rule. “Treat older men like fathers,” he wrote. “Treat older women like mothers. Treat the younger ones like your brothers and sisters.”
Paul especially wanted everyone to care for the grandmas and grandpas who had no one to help them. “Take care of them,” he said. “Make sure they are not left alone.”
And Paul said something kids can do right now: “If you have a grandma or grandpa, learn to love them well. Help take care of them. This makes God very happy.”
Paul wanted God's whole family to be warm and gentle with each other — not picking favorites, not leaving anyone out. Old or young, everyone belongs. Everyone is loved.
A Big Word
Memory Verse
Talk About It
- Who is an older person you love — a grandma, grandpa, or special friend? What do you love about them?
- Paul said to treat everyone in God's family like real family. What does it feel like to belong to a family?
- What is one kind thing you could do this week for someone older than you?