Memory Verse
"Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures through all generations.  The Lord is trustworthy in all he promises and faithful in all he does." Psalm 145:13

Lesson
Though King Saul was an adversary to David, Saul’s son Jonathan loved him as much as he loved himself. (See 1 Sam. 18:1.) Before David fled from King Saul and journeyed toward Moab, Jonathan appealed to his friend David, “If I continue to live, show me kindness from the Lord, but if I die, don’t ever withdraw your kindness from my household” (1 Sam. 20:14-15a).

Following the deaths of King Saul and his son Jonathan, David was made king over Israel. The Lord was with David, and he experienced numerous military victories. David remembered the promise he made to his best friend Jonathan and was determined to keep it.

David asked a servant of Saul’s family if anyone remained from Saul’s family. The servant mentioned Jonathan’s son. Jonathan’s son Mephibosheth (meh FIB oh sheth) had been injured when he was five years old, so his feet were crippled. (2 Sam. 4:4) David brought Mephibosheth to his house. Mephibosheth fell facedown before David. As a descendant of Saul, he was right to fear the king. But David said, “Don’t be afraid.”

David showed kindness to Mephibosheth, promising to restore to him all of Saul’s fields. He appointed servants to work the fields. The fields would provide an income for Mephibosheth. David also announced that Mephibosheth would eat meals at David’s table, just like one of the king’s sons. So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem and always ate at the king’s table.

King David showed surprising kindness to Mephibosheth even though he didn’t have to. In a greater way, God shows surprising kindness to us. Because of Jesus, He invites us into His family and gives us life with Him forever.

Family Discussion Starter
How do you think Mephibosheth felt in today's Bible story?
Share about a time you regret not being kind to someone.
Honor a family member you have seen showing kindness recently.