For Kids · 4 min with a grown-up
A proud king throws a wild party and makes fun of God — and then a mysterious hand appears and writes on the wall.
Today's Story
King Belshazzar threw a huge, wild party. To show off, he used the special golden cups that belonged in God's temple, drinking from them while he and his guests praised statues of gold and silver. He was making fun of the one true God.
Suddenly — a human hand appeared out of nowhere and began writing strange words on the wall! The king went pale. His knees knocked together. But nobody could read the writing.
Then the queen remembered Daniel, who was wise and close to God. They brought him in.
Daniel read the writing. It was a message from God. “O king,” Daniel said, kindly but honestly, “God gave you everything you have. But you became proud, and you made fun of Him. So here is the message: your time as king is over.”
It was sad, but it was true. The king had forgotten the most important thing — that God is the real King over everything, the One who holds our very lives in His hand. That night, Daniel's words came true, and a new king took over.
God is patient and kind. But He is also the true King. It is always wise to honor Him.
A Big Word
Memory Verse
Talk About It
- The king forgot that everything he had came from God, and he got proud. What are some good things God has given you that are easy to forget to thank Him for?
- Daniel told the king the truth, even though it was hard news. When is it hard to tell the truth?
- God is the real King over everything. What does it mean for you that God is in charge?