For Kids · 4 min with a grown-up
After making things right, God gives His people a fresh start and a great victory.
Today's Story
After the problem was dealt with, God spoke kindly to Joshua: “Don't be afraid or discouraged. Get up — this time, I will help you win at Ai!” God was giving His people a fresh start. Failing once didn't mean they were finished. God forgives and helps us try again.
God gave Joshua a clever plan. Some soldiers would hide behind the town, while others pretended to run away, drawing the town's fighters out. Then the hidden soldiers would rush in. The plan worked perfectly, and this time, God gave Israel the victory at Ai!
After the victory, Joshua did something important. He built an altar to worship God, and he gathered ALL the people — men, women, and children — and read aloud God's words to everyone. He wanted everyone to remember to follow God.
God's people had stumbled, but they got back up, made things right, and went forward with God. And God blessed them with victory and a fresh start.
A Big Word
Memory Verse
Talk About It
- After they failed, God said, “Don't be afraid; get up and try again.” How does it feel to know God gives fresh starts?
- Joshua read God's words to everyone, even the kids. Why is it good for the whole family to hear God's Word?
- God's people stumbled but got back up with God. What helps you get back up after a mistake?