Elizabeth's Children's Study
God Hears Every Prayer
Elizabeth and her husband Zechariah loved God very much. They prayed every day for a baby, but year after year, no baby came. Elizabeth was already 60 years old! Still, they did not stop praying.
One day, while Zechariah was serving God in the temple, an angel named Gabriel appeared. “God has heard your prayer,” the angel said. “Elizabeth will have a son, and you must name him John.” Zechariah was so surprised that he could not speak! But just as the angel promised, Elizabeth became pregnant. She praised God for His wonderful gift.
When Elizabeth’s cousin Mary came to visit, Mary was also going to have a special baby Jesus! Elizabeth’s baby jumped inside her tummy, and Elizabeth knew Mary’s baby was the promised Savior. Later, when the baby boy was born, everyone wanted to name him Zechariah, but Elizabeth said, “No! His name is John.” Right away, Zechariah could speak again, and he praised God.
That little boy grew up to be John the Baptist, the one who told everyone, “Jesus is coming!” God chose Elizabeth to be John’s mother because God always keeps His promises.
Devotional Lessons
Lesson 1: Keep Praying, Even When It’s Hard
Elizabeth and Zechariah wanted a baby for many years, but they had no children. Even when they got very old, they never stopped praying to God for a child.
Big Truth:
God hears every prayer, even when the answer seems to take a long time.
Kid Questions:
- What did Elizabeth and Zechariah pray for?
- How old was Elizabeth in our story?
- Did they stop praying when the answer didn’t come quickly?
- Why can we keep praying even when we feel sad or disappointed?
Lesson 2: God’s Surprise Is Always on Time
An angel told Zechariah that Elizabeth would have a baby boy named John. Zechariah was amazed and couldn’t speak for a while, but soon Elizabeth was pregnant—just as God promised.
Big Truth:
God’s timing is perfect, and His surprises are always good.
Kid Questions:
- Who brought the special message from God to Zechariah?
- What name was the baby supposed to be given?
- Why do you think Zechariah was so surprised?
- Can you think of a time God gave you a happy surprise?
Lesson 3: Sharing Joy with Family
Elizabeth’s cousin Mary came to visit. When Mary walked in, Elizabeth’s baby jumped inside her, and Elizabeth knew Mary would be the mother of Jesus, the Savior. They both praised God together.
Big Truth:
God wants us to share our joy and encourage our family and friends.
Kid Questions:
- Who came to visit Elizabeth?
- What did Elizabeth’s baby do when Mary arrived?
- What special news did Elizabeth understand about Mary’s baby?
- How can you share good news with someone in your family this week?
Lesson 4: Obeying God’s Special Plan
When Elizabeth’s baby was born, everyone wanted to name him after his father. But Elizabeth said, “His name is John,” just as the angel had commanded. As soon as Zechariah wrote the name John, he could talk again and praised God.
Big Truth:
When we obey God’s instructions, He does amazing things.
Kid Questions:
- What did the neighbors and relatives want to name the baby?
- What name did Elizabeth choose instead?
- What happened when Zechariah agreed with Elizabeth?
- Can you think of a way God might want you to obey Him today?
Big Ideas for Children
- God never forgets your prayers. Keep talking to Him, even when you must wait for His response.
- God loves to do miracles. Nothing is too hard for Him—not even giving a baby to a 60yearold mom!
- God’s plans are bigger than our plans. Elizabeth became the mother of John the Baptist, who prepared the way for Jesus.
- God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things. You don’t have to be famous or powerful—just faithful like Elizabeth.
Children’s Activities
- Prayer Promise Jar
Decorate a small jar or box. On slips of paper, write things you are praying for (like Elizabeth prayed for a baby). Put them in the jar. Once a week, pull one out and thank God for hearing you—whether you’ve seen the answer yet or not. - Name That Baby
Draw or cut out a baby picture. Around it, write the name “John” in big letters. Talk about why God chose that name (it means “God is gracious”). Then write your own name and thank God for giving it to you. - Joy Visit
Just as Mary visited Elizabeth to share joy, draw a “joy card” for a grandparent, neighbor, or friend. Include a Bible verse like “Rejoice with those who rejoice” (Romans 12:15). Deliver or mail the card to encourage someone.