Who Can Live With God?

Opening Scripture

O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill? He who walks blamelessly and does what is right, and speaks truth in his heart… He who does these things shall never be moved. (Psalm 15:1-2, 5b)

Question 1: What Does God Ask in This Psalm?

Ask: In Psalm 15, David asks God a big question. He wants to know: Who can live close to God? Who is good enough to be with God forever? What do you think — can anyone be perfect enough to live with God all by themselves?

Expected Answer: No, nobody is perfect. We all make mistakes. Only Jesus is perfect.

Leader Note: If a child says 'yes' or names themselves or someone else, gently redirect: 'That's a good thought, but the Bible tells us that all people sin — only Jesus never sinned. Let's keep talking about why Jesus is so special.'

Question 2: What Kind of Person Does Psalm 15 Describe?

Ask: Psalm 15 lists lots of things a person must do to live with God: always tell the truth, never hurt others, keep promises, be generous, and never do wrong. Does that sound like anyone you know?

Expected Answer: That sounds like Jesus! He always did what was right and never sinned.

Leader Note: Affirm this strongly. If kids name other people (parents, pastors, etc.), say: 'Those are wonderful people, but even they make mistakes sometimes. Only Jesus kept every single rule perfectly.'

Question 3: How Can We Stand Before God?

Ask: If only Jesus is perfect, how can we ever be close to God? What did Jesus do so we could be with God?

Expected Answer: Jesus died on the cross for our sins. When we believe in Him, God sees Jesus' perfection instead of our mistakes.

Leader Note: Emphasize faith, not trying harder. If a child says 'be good' or 'obey,' add: 'Obeying is important, but we can't earn our way to God. We trust Jesus to save us — He already did the work!'

Activity: Draw the King of Glory

Instructions: Give each child paper and crayons. Say: 'Psalm 24 calls Jesus the King of Glory — the only one who can stand before God. Draw a picture of Jesus as King. You can draw a crown, a throne, or Jesus with His arms open wide welcoming us. While you draw, think about how Jesus makes a way for us to be close to God.'

Time Estimate: 5 minutes

Closing: As kids finish, invite them to share their drawings. Close by praying: 'Jesus, thank You for being perfect when we are not. Help us trust You every day. Amen.'