For Kids · 4 min with a grown-up
King David remembers an old promise to his best friend — and goes looking for someone to be kind to.
Today's Story
One day King David asked a surprising question: “Is there anyone left from Saul's family I can be kind to, for my friend Jonathan's sake?”
Most new kings wanted to get rid of the old king's family. But David wanted to bless them. There was one person left: Jonathan's son, a young man named Mephibosheth. Both of his feet were hurt, and he couldn't walk.
When Mephibosheth was brought to the palace, he was scared. He bowed down low, sure he was in trouble.
But David smiled. “Don't be afraid,” he said gently. “I'm going to be kind to you because of your father Jonathan. I'm giving you back all your family's land. And from now on, you will always eat here at my table — with me.”
And so Mephibosheth, who couldn't walk, ate every single meal at the king's table, treated like one of the king's own sons. He went from scared and alone to welcomed and loved.
A Big Word
Memory Verse
Talk About It
- Mephibosheth was scared, but David welcomed him to the table. Who is someone new or lonely you could welcome in?
- David kept a promise he made to his friend long ago. Why does it matter to keep our promises, even later on?
- At the king's table, everyone belonged. What makes a person feel like they truly belong?