Lesson kit: Solomon: What Is the Meaning of It All?

Lesson aim

True happiness isn’t found in having more, but in living close to God.

Key verse

“I denied myself nothing my eyes desired.” Ecclesiastes 2:10

Lesson plan

1. 1

   Welcome · 5 minutes

   Greet the children, sing a song they know and say a short prayer.

2. 2

   The story · 10 minutes

   Tell the story with the illustrations on the big screen or by reading it aloud, page by page.

   Open on the big screen →
3. 3

   Talk · 10 minutes

   Ask the questions below and let the children answer in their own words.

4. 4

   Activity · 10 minutes

   Hand out the printed sheet: each child draws their favourite scene and practises the verse.

5. 5

   Closing prayer · 2 minutes

   Close by thanking God for what you learned today. True happiness isn’t found in having more, but in living close to God.

Discussion questions

1. What did Solomon try in order to be happy?
2. What does "there is a time for everything" mean?
3. What simple things make you happy?

Summary for the teacher

King Solomon, the richest and wisest man in Israel, tried everything to find happiness: palaces, riches, and parties. He concluded that all of it passes like the wind. He discovered that there is a time for everything, that simple joys and friends are gifts from God, and that the meaning of life is to fear God and keep his commandments.