This lesson teaches children that good friends tell us the truth in kind ways, and that wise people listen. It works well for ages 5 to 11 and takes about 20 to 30 minutes, including the story, the discussion and one activity.
Big Idea
A real friend helps us do what is right, even when it is hard to hear. We can thank God for friends who love us enough to help us grow.
Memory Verse
Proverbs 27:17
Iron sharpens iron; so a man sharpens his friend’s countenance.
(WEB)
Put your two fists together, then slowly rub them back and forth as if sharpening a knife. Each time you rub, say “Iron sharpens iron.” Ask the children to copy you until they can say the verse with the motion.
The Story: Proverbs 27 for Kids
King Solomon wrote many short wise sayings to help people live well. In this chapter, he taught that boasting is foolish. He said we should not brag about what we will do tomorrow, because we do not know what a day may bring. It is better when someone else tells us good things about ourselves.
Solomon also talked about friends. He said a friend’s wounds can be trusted, because a true friend tells the truth even when it stings. A flatterer, on the other hand, may smile and say sweet things while hiding bad motives. Solomon said honest words from a friend are a gift.
He compared friends to iron tools. When two pieces of iron rub together, they make each other sharper. In the same way, good friends help each other become better people. A friend can encourage you to be kind, to be patient and to keep your promises.
Solomon warned about foolish behavior too. He said a fool who stirs up trouble is a heavy load, heavier than stones or sand. He also reminded people to be careful with their money and to take good care of what God has given them, such as flocks, herds and fields.
Near the end, Solomon said that a wise person sees danger coming and finds a safe place. He said that a person who keeps close to wise friends and family will be more protected. The chapter ends with a picture of a farm that is cared for, with enough food for everyone who lives there.
Read It Together
Proverbs 27:5-6
5 Better is open rebuke than hidden love. 6 Faithful are the wounds of a friend; although the kisses of an enemy are profuse.
(WEB)
Point out that honest words from a friend can hurt for a moment but help us in the long run. Ask the children how they feel when someone tells them the truth kindly.
Proverbs 27:9
Perfume and incense bring joy to the heart; so does earnest counsel from a man’s friend.
(WEB)
Show the children that good advice from a friend brings joy, like a pleasant smell. Remind them that they can be that kind of friend to others.
Proverbs 27:1
Don’t boast about tomorrow; for you don’t know what a day may bring.
(WEB)
Explain that we should not brag about tomorrow, because only God knows what comes next. Encourage children to trust God each day instead of boasting about what they plan to do.
Talk About It
- What is one thing a good friend has helped you do or learn?
- Why do you think it can be hard to hear the truth from someone?
- How can you tell the difference between a friend who helps you and a friend who only says nice things?
- When you help a friend, what kind of words can you use to make them feel safe?
- What can you thank God for when you think about your friends and family?
Activity Ideas
Iron and Sharpening Craft
You will need paper, crayons, scissors and glue. Have each child draw two simple tools, such as a knife and a stone, and cut them out. Then ask them to write or draw one way a friend can help them grow. Glue the pictures together on a sheet of paper and display it in the classroom.
Honest Friend Game
Gather the children in a circle. Pass a soft ball, and when someone catches it, they must say something kind and true about the person beside them. Remind them to speak gently, the way a true friend would. Play for about five minutes, then talk about how it felt to hear honest, kind words.
Take-Home Friend Card
Give each child an index card and a pencil. Ask them to write the words “A friend sharpens a friend” on one side and draw a picture of a friend on the other. They can take the card home and give it to a family member or friend this week as a reminder to encourage one another.
Teacher Notes
For adults, this chapter reminds us that wisdom includes both humility and honesty. We should not boast about our plans, and we should welcome correction from people who love us. The proverbs also show that caring for our work, our resources and our relationships is part of living faithfully before God.
With children, avoid overstating the idea that friends will always agree with us or always make us feel good. The point is that God gives us people who help us grow, and that honesty is best when it is delivered with love. Keep the focus on gratitude and kindness rather than on finding faults in others.
A Prayer to Close
Dear God, thank You for the friends and family You have given us. Help us to be honest and kind, and to listen when others help us learn. Make us sharp and wise, like iron that helps iron grow strong. Help us trust You for each day, and not to brag about tomorrow. Amen.
