For Kids · 4 min with a grown-up
God sets up special “safe cities” - and shows us His heart of mercy and protection.
Today's Story
God gave Joshua a very caring instruction. “Set up special cities called cities of refuge,” God said. A refuge is a safe place.
Here's what they were for: in those days, if someone caused an accident where a person got hurt - without meaning to, by mistake - the hurt person's family might come after them in anger. So God lovingly provided safe cities. If someone had caused harm ACCIDENTALLY, they could run to a city of refuge and be safe and protected there, while wise leaders made sure everything was fair.
God spread six of these safe cities all around the land, so that no matter where you were, one was never too far to reach. God didn't want people punished for honest accidents. He wanted mercy, fairness, and protection for everyone.
Isn't it wonderful that God thought of this? It shows His heart: God is a God of mercy and safety. In fact, the Bible says God Himself is our refuge - our safe place to run to when we're in trouble. We can always run to Him.
A Big Word
Memory Verse
Talk About It
- God made safe cities so people wouldn't be punished for accidents. What does that show you about God's heart?
- A refuge is a safe place to run to. Where do you feel safe? How is God a safe place for us?
- The Bible says God Himself is our refuge. When you feel scared or in trouble, how can you “run” to God?